Bell, Book and Kaselholmen

Would you drink wine from ...

2009-01-28T18:27:00.002+01:00

Texas? Seriously, Texas is the 4th largest volume producer wines in the US, it's something like 12 billion gallons annually. Now, this is not GRAPE production, but actual wine production. One of my student's from last term is starting up his own vineyard after his sister bequeathed him an acre ... I was thinking, an acre isn't much, and it does not include the space for the vineyard. However, he seems confident that he will be able to create a decent specimen in 4 - 6 years o.O How amazing is that.

In addition to the total volume from state production, the total revenues in the industry were $1.2 BILLION, no, really! Thats pretty amazing, and a good chunk of it comes from tourism. I've lived in texas for many years, and I never thought the win industry was very big here ... apparently I was wrong.

~B

Fuel Efficiency?

2009-01-26T17:58:00.002+01:00

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090126/ap_on_go_pr_wh/obama_greenhouse_gases

As you know the world is holding its breath, to see what Pres. Obama will do in his months of office. While I typically hesitate to talk politics, I am loving this area, because you hear people saying things like, "history will depict W as a great President." Wow, history may mitigate some of the negativity and abrograte some of the stupidity in favor of politically correct undertones and smartly turned phrases. However, there are some things that are just immutable. I leave you with a sample to ponder,"Fool me once, shame on — shame on you. Fool me — you can't get fooled again."

And again?

2009-01-26T03:23:00.002+01:00

Seriously, this is like 2 posts ... almost in a row. Somebody stop meh!

I thought this was totally hilarious. I got it around Christmas time from my sister who got it from another. Usually these are total garbage, but omg, this is riotous.
This may not be for the weakhearted :)

_________

This is an article submitted to a 1999 Louisville Sentinel contest to find out who had the wildest Christmas dinners. It won first prize.

As a joke, my brother Jay used to hang a pair of panty hose over his fireplace before Christmas. He said all he wanted was for Santa to fill them.

What they say about Santa checking the list twice must be true because every Christmas morning, although Jay's kids' stockings overflowed, his poor pantyhose hung sadly empty.

One year I decided to make his dream come true. I put on sunglasses and went in search of an inflatable love doll. They don't sell those things at Wal-Mart. I had to go to an adult bookstore downtown.

If you've never been in an X-rated store, don't go. you'll only confuse yourself. I was there an hour saying things like, 'What does this do?' 'You're kidding me!' 'Who would buy that?' Finally, I made it to the inflatable doll section.

I wanted to buy a standard, uncomplicated doll that could also substitute as a passenger in my truck so I could use the car pool lane during rush hour.

Finding what I wanted was difficult. 'Love Dolls' come in many different models. The top of the line, according to the side of the box, could do things I'd only seen in a book on animal husbandry. I settled for 'Lovable Louise.' She was at the bottom of the price scale.

To call Louise a 'doll' took a huge leap of imagination.

On Christmas Eve and with the help of an old bicycle pump, Louise came to life.

My sister-in-law was in on the plan and let me in during the wee morning hours. Long after Santa had come and gone, I filled the dangling pantyhose with Louise's pliant legs and bottom. I also ate some cookies and drank what remained of a glass of milk on a nearby tray. I went home, and giggled for a couple of hours.

The next morning my brother called to say that Santa had been to his house and left a present that had made him VERY happy, but had left the dog confused. She would bark, start to walk away, then come back and bark some more.

We all agreed that Louise should remain in her pantyhose so the rest of the family could admire her when they came over for the traditional Christmas dinner.

My grandmother noticed Louise the moment she walked in the door.
'What the hell is that?' she asked.

My brother quickly explained, 'It's a doll.'

'Who would play with something like that?' Granny snapped.

I kept my mouth shut.

'Where are her clothes?' Granny continued.

'Boy, that turkey sure smells nice, Gran,' Jay said, to steer her into the dining room.

But Granny was relentless. 'Why doesn't she have any teeth?'

Again, I could have answered, but why would I? It was Christmas and no one wanted to ride in the back of the ambulance saying, 'Hang on Granny, hang on!'

My grandfather, a delightful old man with poor eyesight, sidled up to me and said, ' Hey, who's the naked gal by the fireplace?' I told him she was Jay's friend.

A few minutes later I noticed Grandpa by the mantel, talking to Louise. Not just talking, but actually flirting. It was then that we realized this might be Grandpa's last Christmas at home.

The dinner went well. We made the usual small talk about who had died, who was dying, and who should be killed, when suddenly Louise made a noise like my father in the bathroom in the morning. Then she lurched from the mantel, flew around the room twice, and fell in a heap in front of the sofa. The cat screamed. I passed cranberry sauce through my nose, and Grandpa ran across the room, fell to his knees, and began administering mouth-to-mouth resuscitation.

My brother fell back over his chair and wet his pants.

Granny threw down her napkin, stomped out of the room, and sat in the car.

It was indeed a Christmas to treasure and remember.

Later in my brother's garage, we conducted a thorough examination to decide the cause of Louise's collapse. We discovered that Louise had suffered from a hot ember to the back of her right thigh.

Fortunately, thanks to a wonder drug called duct tape, we restored her to perfect health.

I can't wait until next Christmas.

Hello, is anyone out there?

2009-01-24T18:56:00.002+01:00

So, it's been a year since my last post. Who would have thought that this blog would even still be up given the length of inactivity! Seriously, at this point I'm just taking up server space, right? Meh, maybe I'm entitled as an early mover in the international blogging spotlight.

I'm not even going to promise to publish on here steadily, because as soon as I do, I'll forget about it and not do it. Social contracting and reciprocity aside, I just don't think it fits in well with my schedule to have a continuous stream of musings. Plus, forced posting on a schedule ends up looking like a formal regurgitation of days' sequences. How much fun is that? No, really ...

That said, however, I will try and post here :) I'm hoping to get in touch with some friends I've lost touch with. M and I have not spoken in over a year, and C and I have not talked on the phone in forever. Though we do enjoy fleeting encounters over pixelated, innernets media. E, a friend who lived closeby, got married last fall and has since moved to the north east.

Of course I'm utilizing my facilities to cultivate other personal relationships, but I really miss my old friends. M and I went through law school together, and I seriously think the only reason I got through it was because of her unconditional support. C and I totally rocked the international world in Stockholm, the primary basis of this blog, and left our mark on the faculty there. Oh what times we had. Not surprisingly, the only other ethnically paritous person in my program and I have started to hang out. I'll save that for another post.

In any case, I hope to start posting here more often.

~B

Football, Giants Win

2008-02-05T01:06:00.001+01:00

Anyone who is not on life support probably knows that the Patriots LOST the superbowl on Sunday, Feb 3, 2008. Go them ... Pats suck. I don't want you to think I'm supporting the Giants, because I'm not. I just am ecstatic that the Pats lost.

Plus the shot of Peyton Manning jumping up and down when his brother, Eli, threw the winning TD was priceless. Tom Brady doesn't have that connection ... then again, I guess it's pretty rare to have 2 in the family, same generation, who play in the NFL simultaneously. Still, I don't want to see Brady with the 4 superbowl wins since the first was questionable -- didn't arm pump *mumble mumble* My significant other at the time, J, would have had apoplexy had I been honest about my review of the supposed non-pass fumble. And thus I ramble. I'm just delaying leaving the office for advanced stats.

Have a good one all!

~B

Chuck Norris Anyone?

2008-01-28T06:24:00.000+01:00

Almost everyone knows who Chuck Norris is. Whether it's from old reruns of Walker Texas Ranger or some other throw-back martial arts series, we know who Chuck is. I even have a tshirt I got from Target for $4.96 that declares, "Chuck does all my stunts." It even has a beard-sporting characiture to nail the message home. I noticed this obsession probably about 3 years ago when a few of my gamer buddies were spouting off 'Chuck Norris Facts.' Interestingly, Ian Spector created a fact generator about Chuck Norris in 2005 ... o.O The website back in 2005 was getting 10s of millions of hits a month. Ian attempted to explain to Chuck, on several public occasions, the meaning and purpose of the website, but apparently the powers to be, like major TV stations, didn't have the timeslot for the interlude. So Chuck settled on a private meeting late in 2005. This is all from Ian's book that he published after enormous response from fans in 2006, "The Truth About Chuck Norris: 400 Facts About the World's Greatest Human," (Nov. 2007). Now that credit is given, I thought I would share some of these with you. Of note, I've heard the ones below so I don't mind retelling them. I hesitate to copy direction from Ian's book, since it seems unfair to impart the contents of something he clearly worked at producing ... (honestly, I think a bunch of flunkies with excessive amounts of vodka, and herbal substitutes, in their systems ran a bunch of facts through the website to produce most of the content). What you will notice is that most of these involve bodily functions, round-house kicks or body parts. Need I say more?

1. Chuck takes a crowbar into the bathroom with him incase he craps a bobcat and has to beat it to death.
2. Chuck is so all American that he eats Tyranny and shits bald eagles.
3. Chuck is like corn. No matter how much deep shit he's in he comes out in one piece.
4. When Chuck was denied a Whopper during the faux 'whopper outtage' Burger King is advertising, he roundhouse kicked the store so hard it became a Wendy's.
5. Chuck trained his dog to clean up after himself, because Chuck doesn't take shit from anyone.
6. Chuck coined the phrase, "Don't look at me like that or I'll fucking kill you." The common usage became, "Don't mess with Texas."
7. Chuck has perfected the art of removing a man's ear in hand-to-hand combat. Where do you think Tyson learned it?
8. If you can see Chuck, he can see you. If you can't see Chuck, you may be moments away from death.
9. Someone once bet Chuck he couldn't shit on the ceiling. Michaelangelo still owes him 10 bucks.
10. If Jesus had a braclet it would say "WWCND".

Hopefully this humor isn't totally lost :) Hope you enjoyed.

~B

A week in ...

2008-01-21T03:14:00.000+01:00

So I'm more than a week into the program, actually, but I thought I would tell you guys a bit more about my program. I am studying international business strategy, more or less. I get to take 4 courses a semester for 4 semesters. The classes I'm taking this term are research design, network theory, advanced stats (based in econometrics), and organizational behavior.

Research design. The professor for this course is one of those really laid-back guys who does a lot of simulations and is walking us through the basics of creating and implementing a research design. We are even going to work with empirical data -- which apparently even the 2nd years have not yet done. The first day we all had to write our research topics up on the board, of course I didn't have one, though he did ask ... just in case. I think he has 2 PhDs, one is, surprisingly, in math.

Network theory. This is a pretty interesting class looking at the systems and networks, relationships and groupings. It is pretty interesting. Think Oracle, the original network program, or Six Degrees of Kevin Bacon. Honest to god, the very basis of the theory so closely relates to Six Degrees that you describe half of the definitions in terms of Kevin Bacon and his incestuous affair with Hollywood.

Advanced Stats. This class is pretty decent. The prof. is a recent grad, and has a great energy that everyone picks up on. It makes it so much easier to learn the material. Even better is that if you call the prof out on a mistake she gives you points. Not to be out done by my more senior classmates, I picked out a mistake and already have a point to add to a homework score!

OB. This should be a great class. Organizational Behavior is basically the touchy feely side of business. I enjoyed it, even if the prof was a dick, in my MBA prog. I'm looking forward to getting into more of the power dynamics and conflict management stuff.

Hope everyone is having a great weekend!

~B

B does a PhD

2008-01-17T03:59:00.000+01:00

Seriously ... how long has it been now?! I doubt anyone out there reads this anymore, but I think I will have to start this up again. Maybe I can snag hottoddy and C again. It starts with 1 ...

In any event, I totally fell off the face of the earth when I moved back to Texas. For anyone who doesn't know where Texas is, it's in the South Central part of the US abutting fantastic Mexico. I happen to be like 900 miles from the Border, but I like to say I live near anyways. Also, anyone who is reading this and lives abroad, you can always spot a texan because they look comfortable in jeans AND when you ask them where they are from they say Texas, not the US. Dead serious, I got called out on that several times.

After falling in the abyss that is family life here in Texas, I got totally disenchanted with working. Not so much the work part as the finding something I wanted to work at ... or with ... or on ... Ya, lots of choices. I started looking around for other stuff to do, PhD app here, lecturer app there, MBA search. It went on. My MBA search turned up some interesting options and I ended up going to a local university here. They paid me, gave me a nice honor's title, and shoved me into the progam. The whole process took 3 weeks, I think. In any event I finished it in 18 months. There was a lot of busy, but there was a genuine lack of productive.

I really didn't want to get a job in the corporate world. Much to the woe of my program director who expected me to get one of those killer 6 figure jobs when I graduated, I still had my eye on school and, ultimately, teaching. Seriously people, I'm obsessed. I've wanted to be a teacher since I was in HS. Well, not to be outdone by the MBA program, the head of the strategy department sent me a message on Dec 27th, when I had just gotten back from a 7 day all-inclusive in mexico -- I was an easy target I guess. We met Jan 4th and discussed the program. I met all the faculty in one day - 1000 to 1830. By the end of the day the question wasn't, "So, are you interested in applying?" Instead he dropped on me a total surprise, kinda, "So, we've had a student drop out of the program. We only accept three students a year, so there is room for someone to start in the Spring," I paused ... and his response was just, "Right now ... " o.O So, my initial offer was not, "please apply" it was "please decide between the spring and fall ... within 2 days ... "

I obviously took the offer, since I know that their last few placements are at prominent top 20 business schools with salaries well over what I'd expect as a professor. The program covers my tuition and medical, and includes a decent stipend.

SO! I'm hoping to be keeping up a bit more with my blog, maybe revitalize it. Hopefully my audience will grow, I know C is already eagerly anticipating voluminous entries :)

~B

Thanksgiving

2006-11-23T21:53:00.000+01:00

I have several things to be thankful for this holiday. But, of note, is that you are rarely thankful for things at holidays and you tend to focus more on the negative.

I am thankful that I made my third turkey, and it is, sorry mom, one of the BEST I've ever had. The gravy from said turkey is also one of the best I've ever had, much less made. I am thankful that I have a kitchen to put all this together.

I'm pissed off that the people who we invited to dinner were supposed to show up an hour ago. Dinner is now ready, and chilling. 49 minutes late, they are finally here ... I am thankful I finally get to eat!

Happy Thanksgiving

B

My thoughts sitting through ...

2006-11-15T03:26:00.000+01:00

Slight pressure, released, opening a new field, or is it one that is there that I don't normally recognize. Halos and lines, melding and blending, creating a wonderful amalgum of people known, familiar, but now indistinguishable. Except ... the color, a tint or hue inescapable, a tell tale trademark of indistinguishable traits. The dithering light, filtering through and around, curving and surrounding, distorting, sharp edges lost. Nearer objects blend in terrific displays and retreat to oblivion, melting into the overwhelming mass beyond. Amazing how things blend in a way they would not otherwise, as chair and desk, student and computer, become a throbbing amorphic lump, undulating and pulsing with disinterested and bored energies, feeding the life that is the lump beyond me. How baffled I am, sheltered in my myopic world. My thoughts sitting through ...

... a class without glasses.

What is this ...

2006-11-13T16:44:00.000+01:00

A new form of blogger? If I stay with the old one am I breaking with the spirit of blogging generally? Why don't they just upgrade me?

Speaking of new ... did everyone witness the mass takeover of the Legislative branch? A madame speaker? WTH. I know this is short, but just wanted to get some ideas down that I'd been thinking about this morning.

B

Anticipatory Gingerbread Latte's

2006-11-09T01:38:00.000+01:00

So we go into starbucks last night and they were officially distributing, but not 'advertising' gingerbread latte's. They officially open the christmas season, their biggest season, tomorrow at 10 minutes to 5 am CST. I'm not counting the minutes ... I swear!

Gingerbread Latte?

2006-11-03T01:51:00.000+01:00

So, the official release date of my favorite Starbucks, the gingerbread latte, is November 9, 2006. However, my sister, in her infinite wisdom, went to startbucks today on a whim. While there she asked nonchaulantly, "You don't by any chance know when you will be carrying the gingerbread latte, my brother is just CRAZY about them."

The girl, staring at her in disbelief, gently picked up a flavor bottle, flashed the label, and caressed it gently. Apparently it was quite the spectacle behind the counter as this barista molestered the grey-market gingerbread latte flavor dispensor. So it's official, I've had my first gingerbread latte of the season, albeit a potentially illegal one ... I"M not supposed to tell anyone, but blogs give enough anonimity right? Who am I kidding ...

Hope you are all doing well

B

I was ASKED TO LEAVE MY FAVORITE SUSHI place ...

2006-11-02T04:07:00.000+01:00

This has been a relatively rough week. I've had tons of stuff due, received some pretty negative feedback, been generally unhappy with life, school, sleep, food etc. And now, the icing on the cake, I was asked to leave my favorite sushi place. It must have taken me a second in reality to realize what she was saying since she repeated it 3 times before I told my friends I would apparently have to see them later, stood up, almost knocking over a lady who was carrying tea and sake, and left. My sister was there, and said, over the din, "just go eat at the sushi bar, I know how much you've been looking forward to this ..." Why the fuck would I go to a sushi place, where my friends are, to eat by myself? No, really, anyone? I was seriously so upset about it I almost started crying, no joke. It was just that straw we all fear so ...

I'm at home now, eating rather marginal left over chinese food and studying for a midterm I plan on failing tomorrow. Good times. I would like to note that I was late for sushi tonight because I've been at school for 12 hours today and was unsure if I would be able to make it. Apparently it was not meant to be. It saved me about $30 .. hmm, well, I probably wasted that in gas peeling out of the parkinglot though. I was, if you couldn't tell, pissed off. As I sit here gumming my throw-back mongolian beef and crispy beef ad hoc dinner, I really really do want sushi, but is it worth spending the $30? Isabo called twice already to offer to bring me something home. Tempura and eel roll or chinese hodge podge ... mmmmm hodge podge.

I am reminded of a scene from Ab Fab as I reflect on tonight. I know, I know, how cliche, ab fab and HOMeOwners ... Anyways, the scene is from the first episode when Eddie is asking Saffy to make her a morning coffee. Eddie scoffs when Saffy pulls out the instant coffee and notes that, " I don't want those, they are just all dried up. I don't want coffee beans that have been cremated, I want the real thing. I want it fresh ... Grind some beans for gods sake." As Saffy starts to put everything together, Eddy remarks," would you mind not making that face while you grind. I don't want to drink a cup of your anger ..." I'm not sure exactly how that fits in, but there it is. I just kept thinking of that last comment over and over on my drive home. I have to wonder ... how long will it be before I can get sushi again. I wonder if isabo has left yet ...

B

Scariness that is TAships

2006-10-19T01:42:00.000+02:00

So, if you cannot recognize from the title, I am back in school. HOORAH. um, or not. Depends on how you look at it. However, they are paying me to go to school this time ... almost as good as going to school for free, but there are always hidden charges they catch you with. One of the requirements is that I do a TAship, or Teaching Assistantship. Uber, so I get to teach right?

Not so much. I DO get to proctor exams, grade, make statistical reports, identify and throw 'bad' questions etc. I have to admit that I am SHOCKED at the institute's inability to apply a curve. Students either don't study, or don't care. I'm not sure which yet. I did have a student, out of my class of 146, that's right I said one hundred forty six, tell me that she deserved her last grade. I actually told her that I threw 6 questions on the last exam ... um... foot-in-mouth-in-need-of-surgery. I followed it up with we learned from the last exam and hopefully won't have to do that again on this one and scare students. Not exactly a redeemer, but it's better than, "oh yeh, I have no feelings and I want you all to FAIL FAIL FAIL!" It could have been worse.

I hope you are all well.

More to come

B

High Performance ... Tapons ...

2006-10-16T06:37:00.000+02:00

Seriously, I know this is probably not the best thing to reopen this blog with, but I had to talk about it somewhere.

I asked my sister, Isabo, what the hell, 'High performance' meant when you are talking about tampons and her response, classic ... "You can do stuff like play soccer and not have it just fly out of there ..." She paused, "I guess it sounds like oil for a car ..."

Some interesting, and possibly related, links:

A digital Tampon holder with Flow calendar

Playtex Sport - High Performance

Just something different that totally caught me off guard. Did I mention that I saw this ad while watching cartoon network?

Anyways, I wanted to post even it was brief.

B

Ice Goddess? Which Goddess are you?

2006-04-01T17:05:00.000+02:00

Which Elemental Goddess are you?

Ice Goddess!
Take this quiz!

Quizilla |
Join

| Make A Quiz | More Quizzes | Grab Code

It could be worse ...

2006-03-15T05:33:00.000+01:00

I have heard several things about my blog recently:

1) You don't post

2) I can't remember the address

3) You have a blog?

4) How long has it been since you posted?

Interestingly, it didn't prompt me to post until tonight. Appologies for not posting sooner.

I am still, not surprisingly, unemployed, and looking for a job. I thought I had 'the job' lined up, but it turns out that my resume 'fell through the cracks' much to the dismay of an ever diligent and persistent B and C. I applied for said job 3 times (yes, the same job. yes, the same 10 page application. yes, the same internal reference, C. yes, the same manager at HR that I called, emailed my resume directly, and called again). Perhaps it was not meant to be. Unfortunately, I think I will either have to stop eating or go into some sort of deviant prostitution ... probably the latter since I've always had a thing for food, and you can probably combine eating with anything ... That's right, I said it. I'm sure that C is dying reading this.

Mom is still here recooping. R is still working through her stuff. I'm the one kind of in limbo right now. I really miss learning ... alot! No shock there, but it's good to know that I really do miss it.

I guess it could be worse though ... I could be that unfortunate kid from Ultraviolet. I could be sick. I could be alot of things. What I probably couldn't be is any more bored ...

~B

There is a reason

2006-02-04T15:44:00.000+01:00

Seriously, there's a reason I've not been blogging. I've been trying to get a job as a bartender. It's crap b/c you have to do 234579283457 interviews, then they tell you they already hired someone, but thanks anyways. No fun.

The irony of it all is that I think I've completed my application for the Maryland Bar, but I can't afford to go to Baltimore. Omg, serious conundrum.

I have a date on monday, I think. I am going on the date to meet the guy when he is not drunk. He was trashed the other night. The other reason to go on the date is my friend is in a relationship and thinks he's cute. So, I guess this is the gay version of taking one for the team, as it were. I'm not really interested in the guy ... I have a potential date who the same friend is inviting out tonight. It's been a while since I've dated, is it still cool to go on more than one date a week with different people? It used to be so long as you weren't committed to one another ...

I'm going to the gym, since I've already paid for it, and think about it. Need a job to get a job ... settle or keep dating till you find what you think you want ...

good times :)

Bsan

2006-01-30T03:06:00.000+01:00

adavis170: we need to go out again, so you can meet someone!
b3umd: I have white cards you have black
b3umd: thought it was fun
b3umd: yes
b3umd: or so you can introduce me
b3umd: you are more likely to date someone you are introduced to
adavis170: true. But most of my friends are people that where tracys friends. You would not want to date them.
b3umd: lol
b3umd: why tracy is sweet
adavis170: Thats one of the reason I have been going out. To meet friends of my own
adavis170: they ever are dating someone or are bigger.
b3umd: ?
b3umd: *watches aaron try to be pc*
adavis170: lol
adavis170: hummm
adavis170: just dont think he would be your type
adavis170: :-)
....
b3umd: seriously should just walk up to random people and be like dude you want to go on a date
adavis170: lol
adavis170: cant hurt
b3umd: ha you think it would work?
adavis170: could
adavis170: you are cute. you should nbot have a problem
b3umd: lol that begs the eternal question ...
b3umd: Why am I so single?
adavis170: you said it yourself, you dont go out much.
adavis170: not that you have to go out to meet people
adavis170: but it is a good way to start

Conversation I had with a friend about my singleness ... mayhaps he's onto something ...

~Bsan

tests

2006-01-21T18:50:00.000+01:00

I scored perfect on both my exams for TABC (texas alcoholic beverage commission) and the Bartending School. w00t. No one else in the class did, but apparently there was a pool on how well I would do.

Here are some tests you guys will probably enjoy more.

This one was kinda freaky, but probably right on target.

You are TIFA. Sweet, caring, and I bet you can make
a damn good B-52 shot...

What Final Fantasy VII character are you?
brought to you by Quizilla

Um, seriously, I took this one about 6 times ... I was

Take the What High School
Stereotype Are You? quiz.

or

Take the What High School
Stereotype Are You? quiz.
- I mean seriously, those of you who know me know that I can't possibly fit EITHER of these categories.

and this one was fun :) I laughed out loud ... seriously

~Bsan

Old Habits

2006-01-13T17:14:00.000+01:00

So, seeing as though when strapped for cash I always like to leech on others' monetary spending, I've decided to get my license and bartend in Texas.
Clearly the school and lawyering thing isn't working out for me, so this is a good way to get some money while leaving my days free to interview -- if they ever actually materialize.

I did get some interesting news. My professor from stockholm and I exchanged some very plesant emails yesterday. She did mention, in signing off, that a bunch of 'nervous students are reading your exam as the model exam from last year!' Um, did you READ my exam? I completely missed one question and half-assed another. In any event, is this something I can put on a resume ... lol seriously, I need as much help as I can get:
RESUME:
------
Education
University of Stockholm School of Law
LL.M. International Commercial Arbitration Law
Thesis: Third party interests in Arbitrations concerning environmental issues
Studied the nuances of international commercial arbitration law, including treaty arbitration, national and international instruments, and the application of local arbitration laws. Examination used as a model exam for current students freaking out about the upcoming exam -- which they shouldn't since Sweden still allows omtenta, or freakishly-easy-retest, if you do poorly or flunk the first time around.
------
Perhaps that's a bit much?

Good times, good times.

~Bsan

what? NO COMMENTS?

2006-01-07T00:48:00.000+01:00

Lol I think a bunch of people resolved to not read and post commentary on blogs anymore, and I'm not joking. I was looking at other blogs and there seems to be a decided absence in posting and commentary. Not good.

My dad leaves tomorrow and will head back to wonderful stockholm. I totally did not realize how unseasonably wonderful it's been in Dallas this winter. This weekend it will be 28c again, can you believe it? it's been in the mid 20's during the day and mid 10's at night. SOOO nice. Now, a warm winter, better not mean a hot summer, since we already are in a drought (see texas wild fires) and usually have 30+ days with highs over 40c.

Hope all is well out there

~Bsan

Right ...

2006-01-05T04:06:00.000+01:00

Being without work, as I am, a friend's brother, who I know fairly well, moved to dallas. He's taken a job in Terrel, Texas, about 40 miles from where I live. Geographically it is not far, but by clever funneling of the roads resembling organized chaos it is only 45 miles from my house. Wow, impressive, even for Dallas.

My harping about the distance has to do with the fact that I 'volunteered' to drive him to and from work for this first week (and possibly second). The conditions are as follows: 1) he pays gas, 2) he builds me a new 64 bit desktop including operating system and video card that can outswank the local techies -- at least for a week. Now, this is going okay, since it just started today, and he got a ride back home. However, I already see problems. For one thing, he is not sure how often he will need me to pick him up from work. This is bad because it is an hour out there, and I'd hate to have him just hanging out, or me trek out there and waste the gas for not. He's yet to call me, and it's 2100, and let me know when to pick him up tomorrow. This pisses me off b/c a) you should reasonably know when to you need to be in to work, particularly by 9pm and b) it's common courtesy to let me know.

In any event, I did get a call at or about 2133. We exchanged pleasantries and I finally had to be all,"dude, when do you want to get to work tomorrow." After a quick response the conversation was clearly over and we resolved the following uncomfortable silence in about 30 seconds. We are guys, afterall, so it didn't take us long to get off the phone once the business was done.

I need to set my alarm. I wonder if 545 is too early ...

~B

Getting it 'together'

2005-12-30T02:11:00.000+01:00

I finally heard back from my bar admissions interviewer! apparently my former employers got on the ball and submitted everything, so my file is complete ... or so I thought.

The file WAS, in fact, complete. However, once completed, they run the date on it, which, of course, exceeded the 1 year limit on information collected. SO, I get to resubmit a good portion of it, including the more personal credit details etc. So much fun. Then, once everything is in, I get an interview.

SO, I get to pour over credit reports and make sure everything is in order, then I get to make an appointment with the interviewer. Good times, good times.

I am looking forward to getting this out of the way though, as it will probably mean admission to A BAR! w00t. Hopefully people will all meet up in Baltimore/DC to help me celebrate and we can all get tore down drunk.

I can fantasize at least right?

B

Happy Belated

2005-12-27T04:21:00.000+01:00

Happy Christanukka'anzafestivus

I think that conglomerates the major celebratory pasttimes recently passed or underway, acknowledging the mish-mash of cultures and somewhat categorical nature of the american writer. To spotlight the misunderstood, but often verbose and without indoor voices, American let's be honest, we are opinionated, crass and your very basic mongrels. If you truly know any American, you probably like them ... or you hate them, a WHOLE lot ... just remember we are, "more alike then we are different." My mentor in college told me that. She got it from her days at Duke Nursing School when she was in the psychiatric ward doing rotations.

I spoke with M from indiana today. She's doing well, getting ready to move into her house she bought just after thanksgiving. Her fiance will move in this coming fall since she didn't want to abandon her roommate. I felt bad after we spoke because I've been dwelling, almost nonstop, about job stuff. She caught me in the middle of a mental tirade so I had it on the brain. So she got a complete and total earful. M is always a good listener, but I shoulda been better because the conversation was decidely onesided.

I got some pretty cool stuff for xmas: 19" flatscreen monitor, MP3mobile phone, and a cool 'healty' cookbook that breaks down meals into their good-for-you's.

Is about all from me. I hope you are all safe and having wonderful holidays.

My best

~B

HA! Made you look

2005-12-23T01:56:00.000+01:00

Seriously, this is so crazy, I am actually posting twice in a week.

I wanted to post about the new System of a Down cd, Hypnotize. Specifically, as you know if you followed the link, Soldier Side. Lyrics, per the website, as follows:

SOLDIER SIDE
Dead men lying on the bottom of the grave
Wondering when Savior comes
Is he gonna be saved
Maybe you're a sinner into your alternate life
Maybe you're a joker, maybe you deserve to die

They were crying when their sons left
God is wearing black
He's gone so far to find no hope
He's never coming back

They were crying when their sons left
All young men must go
He's come so far to find the truth
He's never going home

Young men standing on the top of their own graves
Wondering when Jesus comes
Are they gonna be saved
Cruelty to the winner, Bishop tells the King his lies
Maybe you're a mourner, maybe you deserve to die

They were crying when their sons left
God is wearing black
He's gone so far to find no hope
He's never coming back

They were crying when their sons left
All young men must go
He's come so far to find no truth
He's never going home

Welcome to the Soldier Side
Where there's no one here but me
People all grow up to die
There is no one here but me

Welcome to the Soldier Side
Where there's no one here but me
People on the soldier's side
There is no one here but me

The first time I head this song I immediately thought of the Crusades, based on the evangelical allusions, God wearing black, as in God being in mourning or the abandonment-obsession with God during the Dark Ages, and the image of all young men having to go fight. The clencher, for me at least, was the he's gone so far, to find no hope and no truth that he's never coming back/home, referencing an exodus or endless journey from Europe to Turkey-ish where the Crusaders ended up taking up 'shop' as it were, never to return.

Hmm. Then again, this could be some pretty rampant social commentary. Either works. Current social commentary I would equate to current presidential endeavours I will not embelish here. Here are some of the connections I liked to substantiate this claim (if one can even be said to make such an outrageous leap). You decide:

1) Some of this is in the present tense: God is wearing black. Indicating a current phenomenon. So, a current, or modern theme, for 'wearing black' is to be in mourning OR to be in a position of Beaurocratic power, such as a leader or an executive - also referenced as a 'Suit', generally. God, in the context of a leader or Suit, I think is a social stab indicating the President. So, currently GOD is a LEADER/SUIT/PRESIDENT.

2) Given the above: They were crying when their sons left ... All young men must go. Reference to the inevitable shipping off of the young men, making a swift kick at the attempt by the Establishment to activate the Draft.

There are two ways to read this next section, I will split them into 3) and 4).

3) There are two ways to read the Refrain. The first couples the first and second stanza's, giving the He reference (both capitalized since they begin the lines) to one entity. He would therefore relate to God, see 1) for God reference. So, God has gone so far (the middle east) to find no hope He's never coming back. Que obvio, so committed there is no way of renegging on this one. The worst part being, He didn't just NOT find hope(suggesting there was hope to be found), he found NO HOPE (complete lost cause). Then, God's come so far to find no truth, God's never coming home. That's right, God's going to talk a good game, but those forces/presence are never actually going to leave 'so far'. For examples, please note that the biggest US military installments include Japan and Germany.

4) The second way to read the lines is separately. He references God in the first stanza indicating the finding of no hope and no ability to bow out of the situation. He in the second stanza is a little confusing, however, since sons and young men are plural. That aside, let's assume the second reference is to the young man/soldier. So the individual found no truth and is never going home. Enlisted personell are forced into longer terms and 1 - 3 year extensions on their 'tours' this is terrible, and mostly due the government's inabilty to recruit (as recruitment fell something outrageous like 63% this year) and ability to 'option' the enlistedmen to longer commitments. Either that or they could be shot, since several thousand died already.

5) Soldier Side seems to reference the first stanza, the death and dying of a soldier and the loneliness therein when he reflects that his Commander failed him, and that he will die not finding any truth, an end in sight, and a longing for home he will never quench.

6) Savior in the first stanza is fairly powerful given the overall impression of the song. Given that God is a man, and 'lost' accordingly, he will give no salvation. Savior is also not THE Savior, alluding to a disembodement of the idea of a One Savior, and suggesting that maybe death itself is salvation from such a terrible cause and feeling of complete helplessness.

Good times, good times.

~B

Hola?

2005-12-18T20:28:00.000+01:00

So it has been yet another few months between posts. I've really been terrible I know. And to top it all off, I'm still unemployed.

I know that I shoudl revel in my unemployedness, but I've been relegated to staying at home and helping my mom recoop from surgery and my sister with stuffs :)

I have since spoken to lots of friends, all of which mentioned the fact that I don't post on my blog anymore. I guess that was a key instigator in this post, the fact that my friends actually READ this hodge podge of ideas and thoughts, still.

I'm going to try and make it a goal to post at least twice a week.

Kram

~B

talking to the ex

2005-10-28T05:54:00.000+02:00

So my ex IM'd me tonight. WE had the following conversation, this is the slightly abridged version. WARNING tHIS IS GRAPHIC AND BITTER:

B: what r u doing on
Whore-ific-ex: lol - I could ask you the same thing! I'm waiting for my laundry to dry . . . very exciting
Whore-ific-ex: how are ya Bri?!
b: good am still in dallas
Whore-ific-ex: really?
Whore-ific-ex: I didn't know you were back in the states
b: yup yup staying with R, mom's in town too
Whore-ific-ex: for how long?
b: maybe a couple months who knows
Whore-ific-ex: LOL - you had better call me at some point!
Whore-ific-ex: I haven't talked to you in over a year
b: that is no good
Whore-ific-ex: no kidding!
... otherwise not much new. My bf and I just broke up, which kinda sucks
Whore-ific-ex: so just working a lot
b: is derek talking to you yet?
Whore-ific-ex: lol - as soon as Alex and I split - because Alex broke up with me, Derek has been very nice

Now, here's what we really said, given the underlying tensions and our past. Comments in parenthesis():

B: what r u doing on (WTF, I thought I'd never have to speak with you again. Damn it)

Whore-ific-ex: lol - I could ask you the same thing! I'm waiting for my laundry to dry . . . very exciting (I'm looking for a hookup, and I always associate laundry with getting online to fuck around, but I am dellusional and don't realize I say 'I'm doing laundry' EVERY TIME I'm actually looking for 'some')

Whore-ific-ex: how are ya Bri?! (aka, enough about me, are you online looking for some too?)

b: good am still in dallas (bite me, I don't get online to mess around. so I'll take your question literally).

Whore-ific-ex: really? (Oh wow, I already knew this, but I was under the impression you'd left the country again)

Whore-ific-ex: I didn't know you were back in the states (que obvio)

b: yup yup staying with R, mom's in town too (well, duh, why'd I tell you I'm still here)

Whore-ific-ex: for how long? (so it was on purpose you didn't tell me?)

b: maybe a couple months who knows (yes, and why should it matter, let me be as noncommittal to your question as possible)

Whore-ific-ex: LOL - you had better call me at some point! (why haven't you called yet? I still mean something to you, right?)

Whore-ific-ex: I haven't talked to you in over a year (wow, it really HAS been a long time)

b: that is no good (I was hoping you wouldn't realize that I'd purposefully lost your digits. shit.).

Whore-ific-ex: no kidding! (wow, maybe you really did break up with me ... how long ago was that again?)

... otherwise not much new. My bf and I just broke up, which kinda sucks (hence why I'm online looking to 'take it slow' with someone).

Whore-ific-ex: so just working a lot (my hand is raw and I need to give it a break)

b: is derek talking to you yet? (is the ex after me still pissed at you too?)

Whore-ific-ex: lol - as soon as Alex and I split - because Alex broke up with me(I want to make it clear that it was like when you I and broke up, so any sympathy you can send my way is greatly appreciated, you know how hard I took OUR breakup), Derek has been very nice (he's being nice to me suddenly. I have no idea why, b/c I'm clueless)

Whatever. Why does said person keep talking to me?

~B

NC, again, "the pit of DESPAIR"

2005-10-23T18:04:00.000+02:00

anyone who got the title reference get's a cookie. Seriously. It's not obscure, but I've found that people have a hard time guessing this particular movie when you don't use the OBVIOUS quotes. Go ahead, try.

I won't go into the misery that is Eastern North Carolina. I will say that I haven't realyl slept in 3 weeks and it's getting to me. Besides that fact that I age about 5 years just by being in proximity of this area, the food here really gets to me. Oh well, I leave tomorrow. I didn't really think to post on my blog until today :( Sorry all. I could have posted 5 - 6 times :(

Here are some links of interests:

The NC Archive from last year

this was probably pre-most of your viewing my page. Though I think Simon and Grace were already around :)

Hope all is well with everyone else!

~B

MEASUREMENTS

2005-10-12T19:26:00.000+02:00

While some of you may be decidely disappointed in the lack of flesh on my blog, I will at least post my new statistics/measurements.

GOAL: Over 2 months gain 5 - 10 lbs of muscles. August 10

Starting weight: 180

Starting body fat: 18.4% (be nice, I'm being honest here)

Waist: 33

Chest: 42

Midsection (abs/lower cap): 32

Arms (unflexed): 12.75

Thigh: 21.5

Calf: 14.5

GOAL ACHIEVED! Gained WELL OVER 10 lbs of leam muscle while replacing some visceral and body fats. The Weight to BF% ration demonstrates this, since a rise in weight would usually raise the Body Fat %. I'm not at all surprised where I lost it from though ... see the following.

Ending Weight: 185

Ending Body Fat: 16.2%

Waist: 33

Chest: 42 (seriously, couldn't I have gained some 5 - 10 lbs here?)

Midsection: 31.25

Arms: 13.25

Thigh: 24.5 for right 24.25 for left (serious, wicked gains)

Calf: 16

Not THAT surprised after seeing the measurements. YOu always do your bf% first though, then see where you had gains/losses. All the cardio I do is leg-based. I really need to start swimming again, but I'm not sure my shoulder can handle it. My trainer has basically said my arms NEED to be my next major gain. We did arms today and I got sick lol. At least we know it was a good work out up till then. I also hit my legs pretty hard because they can handle it, but I also thought I was hitting my chest pretty hard. Whatevah, let's get big arms :)

~B

It's 2006, Right?

2005-10-10T17:34:00.000+02:00

OMG, seriously. The saga of B at the DMV needs telling. The following is not pretty, I hold no quips about that. However, I am a bit embarassed by, oh, I dunno, 98% of the whole thing. I'm telling you it was idocy at it's best, and it was not necessarily the DMVs ...

First things first, preliminary phone calls and internet searching. My telephone call went something like this, "I'm applying for," interrupted, "You need a passport and a social security card." "My card is overseas." "Then you need something from our website." "I have official school transcripts with my SS on it." "That's fine." Click. Seriously. I called again to see if I was in the computer and could be renewed over the phone. She would not even try. So I went to the DMV early monday morning. The webiste said they opened at 8 am, they opened at 7.

So, already, my morning did not start well. That, and I had to get Isabo (my sister) up early so she could drive me since you need a car to do your driver's test.
We had breakfast and headed over. The line was NOT out the door like it normally is, so that was good. I go up to the counter armed with my passport and offical school transcript, sealed and certified. I get my number, 49, they are on 11. Sweet. I send Isabo off to do stuff so she does nto have to hang out. 2 hours later I get called. Isabo is there, the car is there, I have all my materials. I'm good to go.

Or so I thought. The lady at the desk was very polite when she took my passport. Then she frowned at the envelope that said Johns Hopkins Univeristy. "What is this?" "It's proof of my SS# as it states on the website." "I'm sorry but we only accept the social security card." "Mine is over seas and your website said I could bring this in, as did the lady I spoke with on the phone." The nice lady walks away only to return with the head state trooper. Great.

"I'm sorry sir we cannot accept anything but your social sercurity card to verify your SS#" We went around and around about the fact that I'd been told that I was okay and that my transcript passed muster at the front when I got my number. I was turning to leave when it really set in that I needed to complain about the website and the fact that I'd waited 2 hours. So I complained.

"The only way for me to help you is for you to be in the computer. I have to type in your social and I can look up your info. For me to do that I need your social security card."

"That is too bad, I've had a texas DL before can you just check to see if I'm still in there?" Officer,"How long ago though, if your other DL expired likely this is a REALLY long time ago and I can't help you." I give the patient trooper my digits. A few Clickety Clicks later and she smirks. "I see. Your license only just expired in Sept 2005. You can just renew." WTF, are you serious (internal monologue) "Yes, that will be nice."

The poor lady who was helping me looks at the trooper in shock,"So we can help him, today, now?" "Ha, yes, just do a renewal." I'm trying not to pee myself and Isabo is absolutely fuming. When I relinquished my MD DL Isabo noticed that the date was Sept 5 2006. Isabo says to me, "You know that license what still okay, you had another year." The lady looks at it, "It's okay B, we will take care of you." In that omg what a dumb ass he doesn't know a cow from a chicken voice. I just about died. Isabo turns to me at this point and says, "Um, I'm drugged 90% of the time and even I KNOW YEAR IT IS." God she was pissed. But at least I have a Tx Driver's License now.

~B

Wow, who'da guessed?

2005-10-10T06:01:00.000+02:00

The Pool Boy
Random Gentle Sex Dreamer (RGSDm)

Friendly and eager. You are The Pool Boy.

A teen at heart, you anxiously move about your daily tasks, hoping, praying for a good, instant lay. You're carefree, enthusiastic, and rarely discouraged. Love is cool, but it's not for you right now. You know what is? Crotches.

You're a fun person in both big and small groups, and your friends trust and love you. Inside you, meanwhile, your lust is only growing. Imagine your beating heart sprouting pubic hair. Exactly. Try shaving that.

Your exact opposite:
The False Messiah

Deliberate Brutal Love Master

If you're not scoring enough--which you aren't--you should adopt new strategies. Lower your standards. Be aggressive. Pool Boys are often submissive and hope (desperately) sex will find them. Realize that passiveness will not hook the horny guys you desire. A bolder approach and sheer repetition will.

When browsing OkCupid, consider both The Bachelor and The Playboy.

ALWAYS AVOID: The False Messiah, The Mixed Messenger

Link: The 32-Type Dating Test by OkCupid - Free Online Dating.
My profile name: b3umd

Thanks Jonah

Sleep = Personality?

2005-10-10T05:21:00.000+02:00

What Your Sleeping Position Says

You are calm and rational.
You are also giving and kind - a great friend.
You are easy going and trusting.
However, you are too sensible to fall for mind games.

What Does Your Sleeping Position Say About You?

Driver's License

2005-10-09T02:52:00.000+02:00

So my MD license expired a while ago and I never really got back to renew it given that I moved to Texas and am not really planning on associating with MD again if I can help it. I need to get it done, and it is just crazy what these guys ask of you when you do this stuff.

1) Prove who you are.
2) No, really, DO IT, we dare you. And, oh, btw we have the last say in what proof really is.
3) You cannot prove your social security number through your income tax return(WTF) but you can do it with a certified University Transcript indicating applicant's full name and social security number.
4) I have to do written AND driving test again. It is unclear whether or not I need my own car to do this, since not everyone has a car, how exactly will that work out?

Luckily I DO have a car, but my sister will have to drive me there and wait, and wait, and wait, for me to do all the stupid tests on monday and get it done.

Of course, I made the mistake of telling my mom who comes in on Tues and has made a point to call me at least once a day to remind me a) not to drive and b) to see if I got my license even though there is no way I could have in the time between calls.

I'm starved and about to go out to eat and maybe a movie. I need a date. Anyone know of any keepers in Dallas? Toddy? Any recommendations ala Thor?

Hope all is well out there :)

~B

nan desu ka?

2005-10-06T17:01:00.000+02:00

Wow, forever and a day later, I actually get around to posting. I still need to: Call C, get a driver's license, and generally catch up with my life. Interesting, when you little to do, how much longer things seem to take to complete. Mom comes in less than a week, which is kind of exciting, though she get's all intense. hopefully she will be able to get some down time and just relax.

Working out. I am trying to change trainers, I kinda like the one I have now, but it's expensive and we don't have a very good working rapport. He's just kinda a flake and I'm so blase about him showing up, I half expect him not to show every other appointment. At least I get free training sessions out of it. His boss and I are on speaking terms, which is kind of interesting, since he always comes over like I'm going to make a big fuss. ME, make a big fuss. Can you imagine? I'm just."sure, whatever dude, I'm going to go do my thing. Make sure Trainer calls me." I dunno, I just like to be focused when I'm at the gym, talking gym stuff, working on form etc. I'm not there to discuss whether or not my trainer is going to show or how we can fix the situation. Free sessions are good enough for me, at this point.

Dropping body fat. I'm actually not having very much success dropping body fat %. Even with strategic cardio 4 times a week and a relatively focused diet, I'm not dropping the body fat I'd hoped. We will see next week when I get measurements done. Trainer keeps suggesting that he is impressed with some of the weight I can move around, maybe it's just a matter of focus, on BOTH our parts... I'd taking getting an inch here or there (particuarly in the arms) to losing body fat. We'll see. I'll probably post stats next week.

And that's about it. I'm still in massage therapy for my shoulder, I broke growth plate when I was younger and injured it during rugby. I'm trying to strengthen it now. On the career tip, not much going on. Trying to wade through what I can do next, and may be consider going to do classes as the Cooper institute (Training, and sports therapy) or Massage therapy. I'm good at memorizing stuff so why not right?

~b

Preemptive or Second Guessing?

2005-09-20T07:25:00.000+02:00

I am assuming, at this point, that West has little or no interest in offering me a position, much less an interview, as an Account Rep. After calling the HR person in charge of the Dallas hire on three different days, I've decided they either a) are really not interested, b) have incompetent staff, or 3) need to work on their HR department of congruency since I assume the only reason they are NOT contacting me is b/c they did not get my stuff - since I am well suited for the position.

So now what. I am truly getting ot the point of thinking of going back to school. I am not really interested in doing anything that is out there in terms of jobs. It's like being a vegetarian, but you are stuck in public schools in the US. "Oh sure, we offer vegetarian lunch, it's all the veggie sides everyone else gets." Have you SEE the veggie sides at school lunches in the US? Yeah, I'm just about there. And at the end of my proverbial rope.

All the bitching you get for today :)

~B

who knew

2005-09-13T19:24:00.000+02:00

single for over three years now ...

The Keys to Your Heart

You are attracted to obedience and warmth.

In love, you feel the most alive when things are straight-forward, and you're told that you're loved.

You'd like to your lover to think you are stylish and alluring.

You would be forced to break up with someone who was ruthless, cold-blooded, and sarcastic.

Your ideal relationship is lasting. You want a relationship that looks to the future... one you can grow with.

Your risk of cheating is zero. You care about society and morality. You would never break a commitment.

You think of marriage something you've always wanted... though you haven't really thought about it.

In this moment, you think of love as something you can get or discard anytime. You're feeling self centered.

What Are The Keys To Your Heart?

Whatever?

2005-09-13T19:09:00.000+02:00

You Are Somewhat Machiavellian

You're not going to mow over everyone to get ahead...
But you're also powerful enough to make things happen for yourself.
You understand how the world works, even when it's an ugly place.
You just don't get ugly yourself - unless you have to!

How Machiavellian Are You?

More BAR Drama

2005-09-13T18:27:00.000+02:00

As some of you may recall, I passed the Maryland Bar Exam, but I've yet to do my personal interview. I need to do the PI to get admitted. In order to start the PI process all your recommendations from past employers MUST be completed and sent in to the Bar Board of Examiners.

Surprisingly, or not, an ex from Baltimore (yes, some of you know who that is >:( ) did not turn it in until late this summer. My shock, though, over this whole process is the incompetence of a former employer who shall go nameless -- though I'm tempted to the core to post tell-tale attributes of said company out of spite. When I contacted this employer to see what the hold up was the nice HR lady said,"We don't do recommendations, but thank you for calling." *Click* I'm serious, she just hung up. I called back a day later and explained that without the recommendation I am ineligible for the Bar in Maryland. I got the same response. Outrageous. I finally got to someone who would listen to me long enough for me to READ them the form. It is, infact, not a recommendation, but a statement of employment, like I'd tried to explain. I emailed a copy to this lady. When she did not respond in three days I called back,"We don't do recommendations. However, you can get a statement of employment from Payroll. HEre is their fax number." MOTHER FATHER, SOMEONE JUST FILL OUT THE STUPID FREAKIN FORM!!!

I am tempted to go over to payroll in person, watch them fill it out, and get a copy of the send confirmation. Dude, so not cool. SOOO not cool. If I get admitted to MD I will be so much more marketable. I mean like 1100%.

Sorry, I've been real busy with my Dad being here and stuff I've had little personal time. Hopefully I'll post more though, I need a job, so I can pay off loans :( Either that or I need to get into a killer PhD/JSD program. Any thoughts? Connections?

~B san

What drink are YOU?

2005-09-09T21:13:00.000+02:00

Thanks Jonah :)

I could have predicted this one.

You Are a Margarita

You aren't just the life of the party, you are the party!
You mix a good drink, bust out some great music, and know how to get down.

What Mixed Drink Are You?

Getting up Early: A conundrum

2005-09-08T14:21:00.000+02:00

The strange thing about planning to get up early, if it is not something you usually do, is that it may throw you off your schedule. Meaning, even if you are productive when you wake up, which is unlikely given that you normally DON't get up that early and are thus in a half-sleeping fog, you will probably need the sleep or rest at another point in the day. So, what EXACTLY are the options for getting this extra rest. It is a nap in the morning, afternoon? Will you go to bed early? There are consequences to each as outlined below.

The morning nap. Most people, when you get up in the morning, are attempting to be more productive in the morning. For some reason, the idea of a morning nap then counters the purposeful waking up early. Just putting it out there. Also, you are more likely to be tired for the rest of the day dropping your overall productivity. Morning naps, for me at least, tend to be longer unless I set an alarm. Then I'm just cranky all day, and who wants a cranky pants around? You other option is to nap in the afternoon.

The afternoon nap, aka siesta. This is probably the best of the solutions. Afternoon naps tend to be shorter, but are habit forming. We actually get less sleep than we should, according to the Art of Napping. "Professor William Anthony, author of The Art of Napping, suggests: "Our culture has developed on the mistaken belief that productivity and napping are two different extremes." In fact, sleep deprivation is as American as apple pie. According to the National Sleep Foundation's (NSF) 2000 Omnibus Sleep in America Poll, 67 percent of adults get fewer than the recommended eight hours of sleep each night. Says Darrel Drobnich, director of government affairs at NSF: "We get about 20 percent less sleep than our ancestors did 100 years ago. We just don't put a priority on sleep."" In a way, those who do not nap in the afternoon are missing out :) I, personally, like this option, but then again, I'm notorious for taking 1 - 2 hours afternoon naps. I don't think that's what Art of Napping had in mind. And let me tell you, 1 - 2 hours in the afternoon will EAT away a day.

Going to bed early. Hmm, for obvious reasons this is a poor choice for some people. If you are in a biorhythm that gets a second wind in the evening, which is very common, you are likely to miss your window of getting to bed early. Meaning, if you lay down for bed you will have trouble getting to sleep. I usually have to get back up and end up in bed at the normal time and feel like crap the next day. Oh well. Some people can do it though, just go to bed whenever. meh, the siesta's the best I think...

One advantage of getting up early is the opportunity to kick your metabolism. If you eat right when you get up it will scare your body into burning calories. It also allows you to break down your meals and eat several times during the day. This will reduce your overall caloric stores while burning more calories - i.e. you will lose weight.
okay, it's early, I'm ending this randomness.

~B

Veggie for 3 days ...

2005-09-08T03:03:00.000+02:00

So I've not techincally gone veggie for three days, but Isabo and I decided that we should stick to non-meat products for dinner. Last night we had spicy, grilled jumbo shrimp and edamame. Superb. Tonight, we had tofu with broccoli, mushrooms, bamboo shoots and green onions. IT was okay. I'm slowly getting a handle on tofu, since soaking it in sesame oil with some water and soysauce. The tofu was good, the rest was kind, well, bleh.

In any event, we are trying this out for a few days to see if it is better than red meat all the time. The change, if nothing else, is great. Chicken and beef are nice, but boy do they get old if you eat them too much. Tomorrow night we are having crab and goatcheese stuffed mushrooms ... I'm definitely looking forward to that :)

Hope everyone is doing well. Thanks Anne and Hot Toddy for the tip to check craig's list, who woulda thought :)

~B

Shrimp and The Grill: An Incident

2005-09-07T03:26:00.000+02:00

So, as you may all realize from reading this, if you still do, I am somewhat accomplished in the kitchen and on the grill. Though less known for my grilling talents, as my dad holds domain and we have to do some sparring to decide who gets to cook. Honestly, the cooking usually comes down to who has had what do drink, and how hard is this REALLY going to be, e.g. has B done this before.

I hold complete domain over fish, as I am the one who instigated the fish-cooking in my family when I moved to stockholm. Since then, I am trying to branch out, at least grill-side, and work on diversifying my background.

As you can see from yesterday, we had shrimp. I made a similar style shrimp tonight, except I let them soak for 6 hours in oil with seasoning. When I put the first three on the grill a flame about as thick as my arm rose, oh, I dunno, 4 feet in the air. No joke. SCARY flaming. I was terrified I'd lost the first three shrimps on this test run, covered them to smother some of the heat, and ran into the house laughing. I don't know why but it was one of the funniest things I'd done in a while. It was so novel I even made Isabo come out and see it for herself. She was not that impressed, though the display was fun :) Very hibatchiesque for a white boy on a grill if you ask me.

Hopefully I will take time and renew my blogging. AT least give you all some fodder and some giggles throughout the next month. I'm currently looking for work. If anyone knows how I can get a job blogging for a living I will love you forever ... seriously.

~B

Happy Birthday to .. me?

2005-09-06T02:09:00.000+02:00

Buenos nachos everyone. It's been forever and a day since I posted. I don't know why, but blogging just does not seem to occur to me very often. It's unfortunate since I had such a tremendous dialogue with such a diverse group :( My apologies to you all, if you even still check this sporatically.

It's my birthday today. It was somewhat uneventful, but tremendously pleasant :) You know how sometimes doing nothing, can make all the difference? This was one of those days.

I made a cake for myself, with tremendous dual-colored chocolate frosting. Layer cakes apparently take more frosting than sheet cakes. Go figure. I got up and had a normal breakfast, planned out the day with my dad, then left for the gym. It's been a really long time since I've been out to eat, even a casual out to eat, so I dragged everyone to Chili's for lunch. MMMM, cajun chicken sandwich with extra onions and chipotle ranch sauce. I came home and laid in the pool for about 2 hours, before coming in and having cake. Good cake, but I'm not used to eating rich stuff now, so it kicked my ass. I got such a sugar rush I actually got the shakes and had to lay down for a nap lol.

Tonight for dinner we are having 2" thick ribeye's and fresh shrimp in butter and garlic. I give the cake a second go and see if I can handle it. In any event, we are heating the hottub which is sooo nice :) We've been playing around with it so that I can have it right when M comes to visit later in September.

That is it for now. I'm still job searching, and not finding anything. Hope all is well with my readers.

~B

Survey I thought ya'lld like

2005-08-12T14:34:00.000+02:00

*TELL ME ABOUT YOURSELF - The Survey*
Name:	Brian
Birthday:	September 5
Birthplace:	New Bern, North Carolina
Current Location:	Plano, Texas
Eye Color:	Green
Hair Color:	Brown
Height:	5'9
Right Handed or Left Handed:	Right
Your Heritage:	Scotch Irish
The Shoes You Wore Today:	New Balance cross trainers
Your Weakness:	I want everyone to be happy
Your Fears:	being alone
Your Perfect Pizza:	Trash
Goal You Would Like To Achieve This Year:	get a cool job
Your Most Overused Phrase On an instant messenger:	:)
Thoughts First Waking Up:	Do I jump out of bed, or just lay here
Your Best Physical Feature:	Quad/calves
Your Bedtime:	12
Your Most Missed Memory:	I have them, therefore they are not missed?
Pepsi or Coke:	PEPSI BABY
McDonalds or Burger King:	BK
Single or Group Dates:	either
Lipton Ice Tea or Nestea:	neither
Chocolate or Vanilla:	chocolate
Cappuccino or Coffee:	cappuccino
Do you Smoke:	NO
Do you Swear:	sometimes
Do you Sing:	yes
Do you Shower Daily:	YES
Have you Been in Love:	yes, back in the day
Do you want to go to College:	been, a couple times, BA, JD, LLM
Do you want to get Married:	that would rock, you recommend anyone?
Do you belive in yourself:	Yes, dude, look at what I've done in 26 years
Do you get Motion Sickness:	Sometimes
Do you think you are Attractive:	I am not my type ... yet
Are you a Health Freak:	no
Do you get along with your Parents:	YES, very well, we are tight
Do you like Thunderstorms:	definitely
Do you play an Instrument:	piano and sing
In the past month have you Drank Alcohol:	yes
In the past month have you Smoked:	no
In the past month have you been on Drugs:	no
In the past month have you gone on a Date:	yes
In the past month have you gone to a Mall:	no
In the past month have you eaten a box of Oreos:	no
In the past month have you eaten Sushi:	yes
In the past month have you been on Stage:	no
In the past month have you been Dumped:	no
In the past month have you gone Skinny Dipping:	no
In the past month have you Stolen Anything:	no
Ever been Drunk:	duh, I went to undergrad
Ever been called a Tease:	oh yes
Ever been Beaten up:	no
Ever Shoplifted:	no
How do you want to Die:	lol, wow this is a question we are skipping
What do you want to be when you Grow Up:	the best professor in the world
What country would you most like to Visit:	Tanzania
*In a Boy/Girl..*
Favourite Eye Color:	Grey
Favourite Hair Color:	Blond or light
Short or Long Hair:	either
Height:	6+
Weight:	180+
Best Clothing Style:	I'ma kinda preppy
Number of Drugs I have taken:	rec drugs, none, never needed em
Number of CDs I own:	too many
Number of Piercings:	none, butI really wanted to get my upper ear pierced, I even have a magnetic one :)
Number of Tattoos:	nope
Number of things in my Past I Regret:	staying in baltimore for an emotionally abusive shit
CREATE YOUR OWN! - or - GET PAID TO TAKE SURVEYS!

that's right, I'm posting

2005-07-21T15:45:00.000+02:00

So most of you are in a state of shock, if you even still come here to see if there is a posting. Alas, between trying to get back into the gym, moving, working on a tan, and getting addicted to an online RPG my sister has me playing I have very little time for blogging, much less the essentials like eating, sleeping and drinking enough water. That sentence now taunts me since I have two parallels ... what was I thinking? I'm out of practice.

What's been going on with me? Not much. I need to email the finn and the canadian. The finn has not emailed in a week :( Mayhaps he's busy with a new job. The Canadian has not emailed, likely because he lost the email, realized we are probably not going to see each other again, and/or realizing while he had a good time wtf was the two week fling of blatant pda's and time-spending with some random american with Paul Bunion-like facial hair ( I forgot my razor)

I'm trying to get back in touch with old friends. Apparently everyone is moving back to Dallas to be closer to family and their roots. One of my friends, Ba, from highschool, who I now cannot stand and have not spoken to in 3 years, moved back in July for her residency. The way things stand with her: I call every time I'm home, and leave a message, never hearing back from her I assume she's busy or just uninterested in hanging out. It's obligatory on my end since we WERE friends in highschool. She's a total bitch though, and I don't say that about many people, but she is. She knows it as well, and I'm not sure that makes it alright. In any event, I am going out with one of my friends who I've actually grown closer to since highschool. We are going for the texmex. She invited Ba, let's see if she shows, eh?

Hope all is well with you guys!

~B

Alas, poor Yorick

2005-07-15T02:46:00.000+02:00

Um, or not. So I had my final date with Al the canadian. I Will probably be passing along my blog information to him. I actually brought it up with him, and he wants to read snippets without the link to start :) It was a suitable compromise. I can send him the really juicy bits to start, then unpost this stuff once I pass on the legit link. I just feel strange having someone read about the stuff I've posted about them ... strange.

In any even we went to a tremendous little pizza place in the middle of a residential area. We had a really nice time, small tables, very intimate with ample leg touching and other PDA's of a somewhat subdued nature. It was very nice, we definitely had some trouble bringing up the end parts, but I focused on being really happy we'd both had time to get together so much (almost every night this week) and get to know each other better.

Montreal, for one, will be very happy to get rid of us. This due to the fact that the Public Displays of Affection will decrease dramatically. I have had more PDA this week than I probably have in my life time. Seriously. In particular, Montreal will rejoice, as there will be a severe drop in the male on male public displays. We actually had some people yell at us last night when we kissed goodbye. And by kiss I mean something akin to a liplock, with some appropriate-for-public-tongue. I'm the shorter of our duo, but I'm a bit more agressive in the kissing. Whatever, it was very nice :) Tonight's kiss was infront of the Sherbrooke Metro stop outside an apartment flying a pride flag. How appropriate, even more so that the occupant was out stripped to his waist watering his flowers. All in all an ideal departure.

Blar. I'm kinda bummed, but whatever. I'm off to dallas. Let's see if we can continue this hodge podge of successful dating among countries and continents. There was, to your disappointment I'm sure given your responses, a decided lack of throw down mad monkey sex. Sorry :(

Talk soon all, tomorrow is my last day in Montreal! w00t!

~B

Dilemma of the Blog

2005-07-13T19:08:00.000+02:00

I've been in montreal what a week and a half? I've gone on 3 dates, two with the same guy. This is someone I'm particularly interested in, and will probably give my blog link, so I will end up taking this post down. I'm hoping he calls this evening and we can go out again. I stayed at his place over the weekend ... so I'm trying to keep from giving into the temption to have throw down passionate mad monkey sex. So this is the dilemma, do I tell the audience then erase the text ... probably yes.

In any event, you will probably want to know details, so they are as follows. He is younger, surprisingly, around 21. He's a college senior. I know I know, robbing the fecking craddle, get over yourselves. He's younger than my sister, and I really really don't want to think about it, but it has occured to me. He's french looking with some north american features keeping him from being so thin you'd lose him if he turned sideways. He's about 6'1, and a good kisser. He's incredibly laid back, and somewhat opinionated. He's canadian, what can I say. Surprisingly, he's intellectual, but comes across as a total burnout when he talks and stuff. Then he gets really really serious. It's cute.

I wish he could spend some time down in dallas, but I really really doubt that is going to happen, and montreal, no offense to canadians, is boring as all get out. I've gone out, I've done stuff, but DAMN is it hard to get around when you are on the wrong side of the mountain due to piss poor planning by your training program. Beeeches.

~B

See, I told you!

2005-07-10T22:48:00.000+02:00

I figured I'd try this new image thing, and show you how hot it REALLY is in Montreal. Of all places I could go this summer without Air Conditioning, I did not think that Montreal would be the most uncomfortable. It is, clearly, currently between 32 - 33C. Which, for those who are not C-savvy, is about 88 - 90F. Miserable. It rained all day yesterday, so I don't understand how it can only be 49% humidity, but it is pretty miserable. I'm hoping it actually gets down to 21 tonight, it's just WAY too hot right now. TAlk soon!

~B

Funny from Today's Lecture

2005-07-09T02:23:00.000+02:00

Whenever you are in an international setting it is important to keep an open mind about how different people use language. I, for instance, told a barkeeper in spain that I need to piss when I meant to order olives. Granted, the two words are relatively similar, but it was still embarassing since she had to explain it to me in English. So, it does happen, and usually I try to be uber tolerant. However, there are times when the laughter just escapes and you've no control over it.

"Examples of established product groups for the EU label" was the title of the slide. These included:

Cleaning products

Appliance

Paper products

Home and garden

Clothing

Tourism

Lubricants

Yes, that's right. LUBRICANTS. The worst part was, that the lecturer said, "You know what lubricants are yes?" I lost it. OMG I totally lost it. It was that fun silent laughter, thankfully, but it was still bad. She went on to explain that,"it is like the slick material you put on things, and it makes them work better together ..."Again losing it"... like for a machine." At this point I'm no longer there, especially since the class had be particularly boring, mostly due to the lecturer.

In any event it was funny.

~B

And here you thought I'd died

2005-07-06T13:43:00.000+02:00

NO; no, no, no, no. I've been in Dallas and Canadia for a bit, it just seems like I am not getting enough sleep, so when I think of things like, I dunno, blogging, they just slip through the cracks as consessions to the sleep.

In montreal. I've actually HATED montreal until yesterday. Well, hated is such a strong word. The people are very nice, and somewhat attractive when not compared with the swedes :) The city is nice, though clearly a blend of european efficiency and american frivolty. The clencher, for me at least, has been the highs in the mid 80's (29 - 30) with 90% humidity. AND NO A/C!!! wtf. The whole class has been really sweltering for days now. Yesterday, thankfully, it rained.

JAzz Festival. A group went to old town MOntreal yesterday, and I skipped it to do some job search stuff and read emails. I ended up at the jazz festival, in the pouring rain. It was interesting, there was not much jazz, even though it was to be their biggest night. I did get to see some pretty interesting bands playing to a croud of 100.

Meat Sammich. Jesus H Christ. Apparently, Montreal is famous for it's brisquet sandwich. And by brisuet I mean it is seemingly corned beef, and not briquet in the terms known by texans. In any event, the sammich was sourdough, with yellow mustard (French's I think) and a STACK of meat. and by Stack I mean insane three inches thick. It was tastig, and there was plent of 'overspill' to eat with your fingers afterwards. :) mmmm meat sammich!

Other than that I am in class from 9 - 5. It's been relatively slow goings so far, but I think that's because of all the background. Today, in contrast, we have a psycho professor who assigned 70 pages of reading, the majority his own text, and expects us to do group work for three hours in a socratic method atmosphere. Fun ... psych.

Hope you are all well, I'll try to post more regularly.

~B

classic 1

2005-06-29T05:27:00.000+02:00

classic 1
Originally uploaded by mrbrianjapan.

Okay, so this has a pretty cool story about it. MOst of you are thinking, wtf does he have a picture of a beat up VW bug from texas on his blog for. And no, I am not trying to illicit a series of unsolicited punches or anything worldwide. It all began in the Kroger parking lot (grocery store) ...

I was walking towards the entrance when this REALLY cute little girl, walking hand in hand with her grandfather, passes me. She's a lovely bouquet of yellow roses in her other hand. They walk, or amble, between the cars and stuff. She suddenly stops and says, "Grampa look at that Classic Car!"

I nearly died. I tried so hard to supress a laugh, and i eventually made my way back to my car. After my spell I went back and took pictures. I still smile when I see this picture. I'm sure you had to be there to get it, but I thought it was funny.

~B

classic 2

2005-06-29T05:06:00.000+02:00

classic 2
Originally uploaded by mrbrianjapan.

A second look at the 'classic' car :)

~B

Diet Big Red

2005-06-29T05:05:00.000+02:00

Diet Big Red
Originally uploaded by mrbrianjapan.

some things are only available in the US. Among these things I desire are Diet Big Red and Diet Cherry Vanilla Dr. Pepper. Notice that splenda is FINALLY replacing nutrasweet

~B

KEys?

2005-06-28T00:37:00.000+02:00

This was pretty telling ... I actually think it was dead on for my personality and interests ... scary!

The Keys to Your Heart

You are attracted to those who have a split personality - cold as ice on the outside but hot as fire in the heart.

In love, you feel the most alive when things are straight-forward, and you're told that you're loved.

You'd like to your lover to think you are stylish and alluring.

You would be forced to break up with someone who was insecure and in constant need of reassurance.

Your ideal relationship is lasting. You want a relationship that looks to the future... one you can grow with.

Your risk of cheating is zero. You care about society and morality. You would never break a commitment.

You think of marriage something you've always wanted... though you haven't really thought about it.

In this moment, you think of love as something you thirst for. You'll do anything for love, but you won't fall for it easily.

What Are The Keys To Your Heart?

Tying Up Loose Ends

2005-06-23T17:31:00.000+02:00

And by tying up, I don't mean placing in a restrictive posture by the use of a binding agent. This is a phrase often associated with hired guns, assassins, hitmen etc. Usually the phrase connotes mending the connections to the victim. In a sense, it is the mending or pruning of an incident, leaving it neat. Well, that, and untraceable. In any event, I am leaving tomorrow, which means my escapades in stockholm, this round, come to a close. In particular, my connections with the Aussie and the Finn. In the end, the Finn won out, as most of you will be happy to hear :)

The Aussie. Did not call today, or text. This was a bit disappointing, but not at all surprising given out fleeting meet-and-greet on the street yesterday and our overall interaction since we met. It's seem just like bad timing. Partly because we are both so busy, and, due to lack of interaction other than random meetings, we lack anything beyond casual acquaintance thus far, regardless of what either of us fantasizes otherwise. So, we've ended with an exchange of texts, apologies for not getting time together, and me sending my email over SMS. I doubt I will get one, but I feel better having sent it. He did not reciprocate.

The Finn. The Finn texted me 3 times today, and twice yesterday, saying he was excited to meet or clarifying about meeting times etc. This is a keeper, other than the fact that he smokes. He's smart (training for EMT for ambulance), had a few relationships, seems sensibly grounded, is quiet in a cute way, and seems like an overall good person. Talking was easier today b/c I filled less silence. We talked books and movies :) He seems well rounded and sincere in his experiences, very literal and matter of fact. We met around lunch time, got movie tickets and went to lunch. After lunch, which was filled with us talking about books, in particular Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, we went to see Kingdom of Heaven. Ridely Scott, WTF were you thinking? Gladiator and then this ... crapola. Even the soundtrack was marginal. However, there was more than the movie going on, as the Finn and I were in almost constanct contact: arms, thighs, knee, calves. Especially the gratuituous leaning over for comments during the film: "Is that Jeremy Irons?" We parted ways in Östermalm, with several hugs and promises of email. He has my email in his phone, and promised to write. I imagine he will. Right before we left I also mentioned that I will be gone barely a month, and that he will still be around for 2 weeks when I get back. AND that I look forward to it. We will see :) If he emails I imagine coming back to stockholm will be quite nice, indeed.

Hope you all had a great week. I probably won't post till late tomorrow if at all.

As always my thoughts are with you, and I'm sending

My very best,

Brian

Caught 'Ya, kinda

2005-06-22T17:28:00.000+02:00

So, as the Aussie saga continues, it gets interesting. I've received lots of positive feedback from you guys. Thank you :) I have a date with the Finn tomorrow. Now, the Aussie is a little more interesting.

I called today, to speak with the Aussie, after not speaking with him last night. I left a voicemail: Hi sorry I missed you last night. I was hoping to catch up before I left, maybe exchange emails so we can be in touch over the summer and meet up in August when I'm in London for my friend's wedding. Call when you get a chance.

So I'm going about my day, seeing friends from school who I haven't seen in a while. I also bought some shirts at H&M(got to love H&M) because they were half off. One had a hole, so I had to return it after fika with a friend. On the walk back we are around Sergelstorg, and who should I run into ... the Aussie with his friend M'el. They were off to the gym.

We did introductions. They were a bit odd, but passe. I did remember his friend's name at least. HE said, immediate, "Oh, I got your message." I caught him up quickly and said, "I was just hoping to catch up before I leave, but it sounded like you were busy this week. .." A:"Well, I may have some time tomorrow before work..." Little does he know I have a date with the finn tomorrow, so he better move on this pretty quick. Otherwise the Aussie and I will just hopefully exchange emails and be in touch. We will see :)

~B

A Date and Not

2005-06-21T18:01:00.000+02:00

So, I went on a lunch date with the Finn today. He is soooo nice, but we definitely have trouble finding things to talk. I have a hard time gauging why exactly that is. I tend to be a listener, and a sharer (meaning if you talk I talk, and if you talk I listen). Which is usually good for getting to know someone ... who talks. It was most comfortable when I was bringing stuff up to talk about, but it never got TOO uncomfortable. We had a really nice lunch outside, then walked a bit to check on movie times for a date Thurs afternoon. Ended up in a park, sitting on a bench in the shade talking about our lives and friends back home, family, and our pasts (school etc.).

Now, on the Aussie situation. I've decided to let that chill for a bit. I texted this morning that I hope Aussie had a good weekend, that I would not be able to drop by his work tonight, but that I hoped we could catch up soon. NOT that I think that was a deal breaker, since I will call this evening and leave a vm or catch him on break (I have an idea of when his break is). We will see. I get the feeling that the distance is somehwat deliberate, but who knows. Maybe I can get an email and we can keep in touch over the summer and meet up in London in August.

So, that's that :)

~B

Breaking "the Rules": Texts and Phone Calls the Day After

2005-06-20T21:40:00.000+02:00

As I sit here typing away, organizing my thoughts in to a semblance of pixelized structure and coalation, my iTunes shifts to one of the few country songs I have. Now, not to say I'm a HUGE fan, but country music speaks to me sometimes :) This particular song reminds me of my best friend Mi. I miss her terribly, especially at time like now with the Aussie Saga's unfolding at blinding, and confusing speeds. So, I'm listening to "Wide Open Spaces" by the Dixie Chicks. I'm feeling kinda mellow, and may actually listen to where the Sidewalk Ends next ... I miss Mi. Jesus H Christ, "I Cross My Heart" George Strait. God damn the morass that is country music. You've Sucked me in for the last time Country MUSIC. I SHALL SMITE THEE AND LAY THEE LOW. Ha. Fuck it, some random electron discharging shifted itunes to country, I'll run with it ... for now >:(

So you are probably not here to hear me mull over the Fates controlling my iTunes to spite me, I guess I should get on with it then. Many people believe in the distance and objectification of an initial interest to keep from 'scaring' people away and playing by certain rules. This is what drives Sex in the City and the gay community generally. I suspect it also keeps half the shrinks in the US in business. I don't play by many of these rules, so :) There have been several texts and even a phone call today. Yes, a day after the intial intense meeting that slightly resembled a date. Well, except for the fact that I was soaked with sweat from running 3 miles, that we never formally called it a date, and that we met, randomly, at the gym with no intentions of going on a date date. Perhaps it was not a date, even if it's not though, it so closely resembles a date as to be constructively date-like :) How's that for some fancy legalese. DAMN, I knew that law school would pay off eventually. I can even convince myself I went on a date when I didn't. SWEET. w00t!

The exchange of the Text or SMS. So I'd actually not heard anything from the Aussie yesterday after we went our separate ways. I'd texted him, saying I'd try to come by, and that hopefully I'd get to see him. No response, probably a caution considering I'd given interest in dropping by. I still checked my phone at least twice an hour. This morning I got a text though, which I still have:
"Morning! Your welcome. I went to lino, but could not be bothered to line up. Happy you had a nice time" Clarification on this subject matter to follow. I then texted back, 45 minutes later. I left my phone home, so at least it looked like I didn't just jump on it and respond. I DO hate to look like I'm at the whim of someone else, whether it's the truth or not. I am diligent though, and often project that on others. Any potential dates out there, keep that in mind! My response was: "NO! I waited for you for hours I saw some old friends so it balanced out ;) have fun sitting today can I call later?" Meh, a little odd, but it was forward and gives an easy out for the phone call. The reply was: "Sure. I'm baby sitting my niece till tomorrow. Enjoy the Sun!" I didn't reply to this text.

The phone call. I called at or about 22:49. "Hello mate ..." I laughed despite myself. It's been a while since I knew an aussie enough to get the less formal greetings. Was a nice change. We had a nice conversation about last night, what we'd both done today, and what was on for the week. Apparently Aussie had changed after work and headed over to Lino, but had to wait in line. WTF. He left because it was 2:30, and 100 SEK ($15) to get in. Understandable. I told him about getting to catch up with M, see post below. We talked about his music video for a bit, and I admitted that I was surprised it was his at first, confessing that the beginning I thought it was a really thin Heath Ledger. I got a chuckle for that. Apparently it's good that I had trouble recognizing him (Aussie) outright. Though, confusingly, Aussie and Heath are from Australia and of similar age ... hmm. He apparently had a blast sitting his niece and is psyched to do it tomorrow. I got another invite to see him at work -- different place this time. I'm not sure how I feel about this: 1) he's trying to get face time in, because he's uber busy and not going to have much time to see me otherwise or 2) he's not realy interested and is placating me because we've such a short time remaining for anything to happen. Either is plausible, especially given the obviousness of my interest. Oh well :) HE works on Tues at this place on the water, so who knows. I'll think on it, see what you all say of course.

So, he invited me to keep in touch this week to see what's going on, but made it fairly clear that he is busy. Who knows. I have a gut feeling that he is being polite and is trying not to create any vested interest on his or my part. nice of him, but I like it straight up and obvious sometimes. It's just nice, and appropriate :)

Well, that's it for now. Hopefully he will text me tomorrow some time. We will see. This is when the 'Rules' have more bearing, I think, and he may hold off on contacting me until Tues. Thoughts?

The Finn texted me twice :) both of which I responded to. He's terribly hungover today and had to work all day. he's just now getting off work I think and it's 00:30. That's hardcore.

Hope everyone had an amazing weekend!

~B-dawg

pissed haiku

2005-06-20T17:41:00.000+02:00

We talked. You said X.
Now You tell me you can't X.
Do what you say, dick.

clockwork orange come to life?

2005-06-20T00:02:00.000+02:00

I thought this article was interesting. It's about gangs of teenagers in England going around beating the crap out of people, taking pictrues with their famera phones, running off, and posting the pictures on the web. I've had trouble finding pictures. Most recently, a small girl was raped and a man, defending his car, was beaten so severely he fell into coma for two weeks.

Apparently this is not new for England. It was a fad in the 60's and 70's, glorified by Stanley Kubrik's Clockwork Orange and novel by Anthony Burgess. Until recently, the slap-happy incident's remained minor, inflicting only minor injuries among early teens preyed upon by gangs of teenagers. This sounds remarkably like mob-like bullying to me. It's even affected the blogsphere. See e.g. : http://inklings.blogs.com/inklings/2005/04/slap_happy.html, see also http://theladyjustitia.blogspot.com/2005/04/as-technology-advances.html; compare http://baldilocks.typepad.com/baldilocks/2005/04/slap_happy.html.

~B

Random Sign

2005-06-19T23:26:00.000+02:00

Random Sign
Originally uploaded by mrbrianjapan.

We were strolling along Kungsgatan today and passed a Carlings (Jean and T type store) and saw this sign. YEs, you read it right, it's in English. The little text below the exclamation is "En trappa ned" or "One floor down" since the store is in the basement of the building.

My mom nearly fell over when she saw this, and, being the only one with a phone, freaked out and didn't know what to do. She really wanted a picture, but thought it was so cheesy to just stop and take one. Of course Dad and I were like, "Take the fuzzy picture!"

We stood by it to make sure NO ONE questions the authenticity. The scary part of this whole thing is that people really do notice this stuff. I wonder if they had to get special approval to put this sign out ... Hmm. Now all we need is GAP to start putting out signs like, "No sweat shop created materials sold here" Wait, they can't do that ... my bad.

Hope everyone had a good weekend. New post updating the Aussie saga coming shortly.

~B

Hilarious Cat Joke :)

2005-06-19T23:20:00.000+02:00

Four men were bragging about how smart their cats are.

The first man was an Engineer, the second man was an Accountant, the third man was a Chemist, the fourth was a Government Employee.

To show off, the Engineer called to his cat, "Tsquare, do your stuff."
T-square pranced over to a desk, took out some paper and a pen and promptly drew a circle, a square, and a triangle. Everyone agreed that was pretty smart.

But the Accountant said his cat could do better. He called his cat and said, "Spreadsheet, do your stuff."

Spreadsheet went out into the kitchen and returned with a dozen cookies. He divided them into 4 equal piles of 3 cookies each. Everyone agreed that was good.

But the Chemist said his cat could do better. He called his cat and said, "Measure, do your stuff."

Measure got up, walked over to the fridge, took out a quart of milk, got a 10 ounce glass from the cupboard and poured exactly 8 ounces without spilling a drop. Everyone agreed that was good.

Then the three men turned to the Government Employee and said, "What can your cat do?"

The Government Worker called to his cat and said, "Coffee Break, do your stuff." Coffee Break jumped to his feet, ate the cookies, drank the milk, crapped on the paper, screwed the other three cats, claimed he injured his back while doing so, filed a grievance report for unsafe working conditions, put in for Workers Compensation and went home for the rest of the day on sick leave.

Bring New, Meet Old?

2005-06-19T10:43:00.000+02:00

So, I DID, in fact, go to *BAR* last night. It was quite a boring time at first. Then, however, the Aussie introduced me to a small group of people who took care of me for the night. It was really nice. OMG and I go to see the Aussie's new music video ... WOW. He looks kinda like Heath Ledger , except with lighter eyes, and not as large a build. It took me a few minutes to realize that the video was the Aussie's, they were playing it with the DJ music, so I figured it was just random. Then he came up and was like,"What did you think?" shrugging I said,"Um, about?" "THE VIDEO,it's me!" I almost fell over, I was like, "Dude, no it's not, is it?" They replayed, with his soundtrack this time ... it was pretty cool :)

So, I met a TON of new people last night, and suddenly the Stockholm gay scene livened, significantly. I still have to admit that I am disappointed in the scene here, a bit, mostly because people usually just want a lay, and you have to be VERY careful about people buying you drinks. Usually there are 'expectations' or 'favors' attached. I'm not like that, so I make it very clear, or offer a reciprocal drink purchase. I met some nice people, but no one asked for my number. Strange, because I got felt up at least 27 times(ass, chest, and the obligatory small of the back). I did meet a Finn, I know people are going WTF, who was really nice. He keeped forcing conversation, so I figured he was really really drunk or trying to get an opening for something. When I offered a movie or something this week I thought he was going to cry. His whole body smiled, and he had phone in hand before I could blink. He texted me before I even got home. And he gave a decent hug goodnight. So, hopefully we will hang out sometime this week. I did not get to see the aussie much last night, which was a little disappointing, but he was working. I think I may try and call him sometime this afternoon.

After *BAR* closed we headed over to LENO (a schalger bar on Riddarholmen, close to downtown). It was not really what I expected, but we ended up outside watching the sky lighten up around 2 am. It was the cool. While out there though I saw M. You guys probably do not recall the saga of M, so I will post it below for those interested. M was, unfortunately or fortunately, in town to do his ex who is moving back to Brazil. That tears at me to no end, but M had nothing but amazing things to say about me to other people. He quipped at me that I dont' call enough, and renewed an invitation to come see him in amsterdam. I should go. It's just tough, because, at the end of the day ONE of us will do something stupid. M and I used to lift and hang out all the time before he broke up with ex. Here is the saga, as much as I can find:

I actually can't seem to find much about M. Which is strange, because it's bugged me for a really long time and C and D and I used to talk about it. I SWEAR I had a post laying it all out, but I've gone through my entire backlog and there is nothing. Basically, M was here dating Ex. M was serious, Ex wanted sex and not a relationship. M and I hit it off. We went to the gym, hung out, talked every day etc. Me had issues and gave nice hugs. I was smitten, for good reason. M is the hawt, AND the nice, AND the worldy. I toyed with the idea of talking to M about 'us' once he moved back to Amsterdam, but it just didn't feel right. It definitely one of those 'in the wrong place at the wrong time.' Like me going out last night, and for the first time, meeting people who weren't out for a lay. Hmm, why couldn't that have happened last fall? Here are two posts I found. Nothing spectacular, but they are there:

A comment on Showing Interest

M Leaves :(

So it was really nice to go out. I saw new faces, I met old friends. I even went by McDonalds on my way home! I stood in line and ordered ALL in swedish. b/c I'm hardcore!

I hope everyone else had a stellar weekend. I'll update about the Aussie, but he's not contacted me yet :( I'll do the obligatory phone call this afternoon and then I'm done forcing it.

~bsan

Sunbathing ... with the Aussie?

2005-06-18T16:08:00.000+02:00

Whatsit? Did I really say SUNBATHING with the AUSSIE? That's right, I said it. And, it in fact, happened. I've the sun on my face to prove it, and the digits in my phone to back it up! Ha! This is actually one of the first 'meet at random place and both show interest' that I've had in a while. It's been especially hard here since everyone just seems to want to do it, and skip the dating part. Just not my thing. So I guess you guys probably want to hear about how this whole thing went down. Those who don't, I'm sure you can find other stuff to read on here!

Well, as some of you have read, I've used strategery to no avail this week, in coordinating my gym schedule with what I was hoping was the Aussie's. I didn't know his actual schedule, since I'd not seen him before, and he worked out on that one friday from 10 am - 11:30am. So, going on this, I figured 30 min. before, or after, should be appropriate, and it didn't REALLY mess with my gym schedule that much. I've even gone a few times in the afternoon to bike/run/cardio whatever, to see if I'd catch up with him. Surprisingly, after not seeing him yesterday, I wrote it off as a wash, and decided that he was probably straight, and not interested anyways.

Anyways, back to the story. So, I'm at the gym, and just finishing up a 25 minute run, according to Johan's guidelines. I'm still trying to find my peak levels. I finish and turn around, and who should be walking down the stairs? The Aussie, who waves and looks all nice. I wave and stagger off the machine. He disappears down stairs and I, yes I'm on a mission, follow. I was totally done lifting, so I casually go into the lockerroom. Luckily I'd not taken a locker in the side corner like I normally do, so we were 'comfortably' close to one another in terms of lockers. I strike up a conversation, seeing what he's doing for the weekend. Turns out he's working, and been working, but he plans on getting out and getting some sun. What am I doing, he asks, "oh, nothing, getting out in the sun could be nice, maybe I'll go out and read later." He get's naked, and just as he's undressing my calves start twitching from my run. I go to stretch. I come back and he's semidressed. Cool. I was ready to go a few minutes ago, but I hung out 'just in case'.

The stumper for me was that he kept calling his ex his ex partner. Now, as an aside, I've met several aussies and canadians who use 'partner' to mean male or female (very pc). So this information gave me very little insight into possibilities. So, I played along with it for a bit, tried to get a feel for where he'd worked in the city and it turns out he'd worked A chokladkoppen. I was like ahhh ... and do you know H (who I went on a few dates with)? Wow, that's awesome.

We walk out together and I ask him if he wants to catch lunch or something. He's got to work at 3pm, and it's 12:30, but he's totally focused on the sunning. "What are you doing now? Would you like to come with?" Me? Wait, let me think about it. Give another awkward smile, you know, like I'm really giving it consideration. "Sure, where would you like to go?" We settled on the University, there's a really nice rocky cliff near there for sunning, and it's close to the water. I went home to grab some stuff, and met him at Uni 20 minutes later, he biked.

So we hiked a bit, and picked a good spot. Laid out towels and stripped. He was in bathers(square lycra things *censored*) I just kept my shorts on and rolled the cuffs and waist. I didn't even think about the fact that he was about to see me in a state of semi undress. Now I'm all, whatever. We talked a bit. He's really really nice. I really enjoyed talking to him. He's actually older, and been in show biz since he was 9. The thing that sucks is he's moving to the UK and I leave in a week. After the sunning though, we walked back and I asked if he'd have any time to hang out this week -- I was deliberately loose with the language.

We exchanged numbers, and he said he wasn't sure how much free time he'd have this week, but that I should definitely give him a call. I know he's babysitting his niece the next two days, and working tonight and next week. He did say, at the end, "If you are near *BAR* tonight, you should drop by." His bike was between us, and the afternoon of sunning had been somewhat nondate-like, so he politely extended his hand. I didn't miss a beat and shook, then gave him a smile and told him I'd try and come by tonight. I think I'll go, if for nothing else but just a drink, and so he can see me clean for once. Maybe I'm less attractive clean?

So what do ya'll think? I told him all I had to do all week was go to the gym, adding that I usually go to the gym in the morning. Should I push for meeting again or ...?

hope everyone's having a great weekend

~B

Arms

2005-06-17T11:52:00.000+02:00

I will post about the insanity that was the gym today in a second post. Below is my arm work out. It changes, of course, but this is what I did today.

Dips. I did traditional dips with no extra weight. Because this was my first I also did 10 x 7kg (15.4lb) over head tricep extensions (Right arm, then left arm) after each set of dips.

x 12
tricep extensions
x 12
tricep extensions
x 12
tricep extensions
x12
tricep extensions

Arm curls. I SO hate arm curls, probably why I wussy, girly looking arms. Bite me. There are so many more fun things to do than curls. I use a neutral inclined curling bench for these so you get nice full extension. The bar is 10kg (22lb).

12 x 15kg (33lb)(with bar it's 25kg, 55lb)
12 x 20kg (44lb)(30kg, 66lb, which was my max for 4x or 5x about 3 weeks ago)
9 x 22.5kg (49.5lb)(32.5kg, 71.5lb)
6 x 25kg (55lb)(35kg, 77lb)
10 x 10kg (22lb)(20kg, 44lb)(power set 6x 25 to 10 x 10)

Rope Pulls and Overhead Extensions. These are fun, but I was stuck on the single cable with can make it awkward since it adds resistance. I alternated pulls (pushdowns with a rope, where the arms go from prayer to extended) to overhead (same deal, elbows in) for each set.

15 x 17.5kg (38.5lb + resistance)
15 x 17.5kg

12 x 22.5kg (49.5lb + resistance)
12 x 20kg

10 x 25kg (55lb + resistance)
10 x 22.5

With pure weight cables I can usually get up to 10 x 35 or 10 x 37.5.

Standing Curls, cable 'head-crackers' and dumbell curls. Yes, all in a row.
I use the same weight for the curling bar (27.5kg) and dumbells (7kg), but change up the cables. Again, these cables are resisting cables, which I actually prefer for head-crackers. Head crackers beign with the arms straight out from the bod, palms up. Handles in hand, step in front a bit for parallel, behind for upper. Parallel tends to target the middle of the arm a bit better. Curl, keeping your upper arm parallel to the floor, by only moving your forearms. Your hands come to your head, so you look like you are hitting yourself, like when you were a kid and your uncle did that to you ...

For each set I did 10 standing curls. Then I did cables. Then dumbells, singles forst at 8 a piece, then together at 8 total. Cable variance as follows.

StandingCurl
12 x 7.5kg (16.5lb + resistance)
Dumbells

StandingCurl
10 x 10kg (22lb + resistance)
Dumbells

Standing Curl
8 x 12.5kg (27.5lb + resistance)
10 x 7.5kg (16.5lb + resistance)
Dumbells

StandingCurl
7 x 12.5kg
12 x 5kg (11lb + resistance)
Dumbells

I still hadn't hit an hour, so I figured I could do another blended exercise.
Overhand bicep curls and double tricep extensions, followed by single bicep extensions. Overhand bicep curls are odd, but then help my forearms, and hit the bicep a little differently. Take a large bar (I used a 20kg bar bare) and grip decently close with hands on top of bar and parallel with hips. Let bar rest on thighs. Curl to chest, repeat.

10 x overhand
10 x 7kg double tricep
10 x 7 single

10 x overhand
10 x 8kg double
10 x 8 sinlge

10 x overhand
10 x 9kg double
8 x 9 single

10 x overhand
9 x 9kg double
9 x 9 single

W00t!

~B

clocktower 10:05

2005-06-16T22:07:00.000+02:00

clocktower
Originally uploaded by mrbrianjapan.

Just so you don't think I'm cheating, this is a clocktower on the otherside of my building. See the time!

sun setting 10:22

2005-06-16T22:06:00.000+02:00

sun setting 10:22
Originally uploaded by mrbrianjapan.

the exposure isn't as good because I'm shooting into the light.

sun setting 10:31

2005-06-16T22:05:00.000+02:00

sun setting 10:31
Originally uploaded by mrbrianjapan.

this is what it looks like from my windows at 10:31 AT NIGHT

a leg work out

2005-06-16T16:59:00.000+02:00

This is a typical leg work out for me:

Squats. Usually use the smith, with a bench to spot.

10 x 90kg (198lb)
8 x 95kg (209lb)
8 x 100kg (220lb)
6 x 102.5kg (225.5lb)

Abridged squat. Go deep and stay there, just below the seated position to just above. I use a real low box as a guage. It's harder than it looks, especially right after the squats.

10 x 30kg (66lb)
10 x 40kg (88lb)
8 x 50kg (110lb)
8 x 55kg (121lb)

Step ups (if I don't do abridged squats). Dumbells in each hand. Usually step up on a mounting box or bench. Do one set with one leg, the immediately into the next leg.

10 x 24kg (52.8lb)
10 x 24kg
8 x 24kg
8 x 24kg

Barbell Calf Raises. Usually use the smith machine, and a calf raise block. I do a deep raise to neutral (heel goes down), then a set of upper raises (heel goes up) to neutral, then full raises (heel starts down, goes all the way up).

15 x 15 x 15 - 90kg (198lb)
15 x 15 x 15 - 90kg
15 x 15 x 15 - 90kg (then another set of deep raises for 15)
15 x 15 x 15 - 90kg (then another set of deep raises for 15)

If I start with squats I usually only do light curls and extensions.

Curls (hamstring). Machine, so I don't precise weights, but all are power sets. I do single legs, then both, so if I say 6, it is 6 Rx 6 Lx 6Both.

8 x lvl5
8 x lvl6
6 x lvl7
4-5 x lvl8

Extensions (quads). Machine, again, single legs, then both.

10 x 6
8 x 7
6 x 8
5 x 9

I usually try to get in some free-ham lifts. I like to use a barbell, and, on one leg, bend down, allowing the other leg to kick out behind you with your back straight. Bring the weight up, with your swinging leg moving as a counter so you can stand if you have to when you get back up. Looks kind of like an ice skater. Change legs when you've done one.
8 x 30kg (66lb)
7 x 30kg
7 x 30kg
6 x 30kg

Think that covers most of it.

~B

Light Back Workout

2005-06-16T16:25:00.000+02:00

I figured I'd try to cardio thing Jonah talked about yesterday, but I felt bad going to the gym for 20 minutes. SO, I did a light back workout first. Usually when I go 'light' I do lat pulls.

Close grip Lat Pull. Traditional, close grip handles, pulled to the chest in an even motion. Release until arms are beginning to unbend, repeat. Back is usually locked. Hold body at a slight angle away from the machine.

12 x 60kg (132lb)
10 x 65kg (143lb)
8 x 70kg (154lb)
6 x 75kg (165lb)
12 x 45kg (99lb)(power set 6 x 75 to 12 x 45)

Inclined dumbell row. I like this excercise more than the traditional dumbell row. Place your weight on the bench near the end. Place your knee on the edge of the bench, so your calf is now at an angle. Place the coordinating hand beside the weight. Let your other leg go straight behind you, and a little to the side, so you are almost in a 'sprinting' position. Set your back (you should have a nice, flat back lining up with your outstretched leg). Roll the weight off with your lifting arm. If you are in position the weight will pull your arm straight. Keeping your back locked and not moving your leg, pull the weight up to your chest. It is MUCH easier that it sounds once you do it once. I went pretty light on this.

8 x 30kg (66lb)(you move the weight to other side after 8, so 8 each side)
8 x 32kg (74lb)
8 x 34kg (82lb)

Wide grip lat pulls. These are cool behind-the-head-lat-pulls, with the fun huge wide grip, bell bar. The biggest mistake people make on this is letting the weight go too far above their heads or pulling the bar too far down. IT's REALLY hard on your shoulders, but if you do it right, even I can do it pain free. I usually move from a gloser grip to a wider grip and drop the weight after a set.

12 x 60kg
10 x 40kg

10 x 65kg
10 x 45kg

8 x 70kg
10 x 40kg

6 x 75kg
10 x 45kg

After that took 27 minutes, I just didn't think it was enough. I did lower back extensions.
20 free
20 x 10kg (22lb)
15 x 15kg + 5 free
25 x 15kg + 5 free
I did situps in between.

The cardio run. I did a pre-planned setup with incline changes on level 6.5 (speed varied from 7 - 8) Did this for 20 minutes. Broke a mad sweat. But still had my wind, so moved to a bike for 20, same deal.

~B

Chronic Insomnia: An American Problem?

2005-06-16T07:20:00.000+02:00

I really do not enjoy reading about things and having them labeled an American problem, but there are definitely things that fall into this particular category. I thought I'd outline some of the exacerbating elements below. Here is the Article that spurred this post: Chronic Insomnia Baffles Sleeping Experts.

Hmm. Where to begin. WELL, let's start with the article. The article lists several causes including, but not limited to, fast-paced-life, menopause, prescription drugs, coffee, smoking alcohol, and major life-ending diseases. Well, that probably covers the gambit, but let's really consider the american population in general.

(Gluttony)We over eat. Have you seen the size of the portions they serve in the US? Can we say,"One plate would feed a small african village?" And it's not like ording a'la carte does any good, the food is already there and not going to Africa, that's for sure. And it's not just the portions served, but the fact that everyone EATS it all. It is ingrained in us, even in school, that you must clean your plate, that it is atrocious to not eat everything. Classic, "there are starving people in china/africa." Yeah, there are starving people in the US to, but me cleaning my plate does not get them food. *Focus* Okay, so we eat too much, and get in the habit of eating too much, so we engorge. It's not healthy.

Sugar. In particular, Americans eat outrageous portions of sugar and refined flour all the time. It is ridiculous, and killing us. The new kick for low carbs and whole grains is all well and good but these things are EXPENSIVE b/c the Sugar conglomerates and Lobbies are SO strong in the US. What I love to see is an obese person enjoying a diet coke with a slice of devil's food cake with chocolate frosting, or a double chocolate machiato with two Krispy Kreme's in the morning. I mean, seriously, on occasion you can do that stuff, but regularly you are just begging for a coronary. Sugar directly impacts your blood and usually acts as a stimulant, and can therefore mess with your sleep.

Caffein. A vicious accompanyist to sugar is our friend caffein. Caffein actually induces cravings for sugar. Not to mention that caffein is a direct and sustaining stimulant that can cause dependency and insomnia. If you really want to cut sugars from your diet, you should also quit the caffein.

(Sloth)We are stagnant. So not only do we drink the coffee to give us 'energy' and eat sugar for a 'pick-me-up' we don't do anything. Our bodies, as sick as it sounds, LIKE to be abused. It thrives when you do some consistent working out or cardio, walking or swimming, biking or lifting weights. If your body is almost always at a state of rest, how will it realy know when to calm down and go to sleep. Being active helps use, remove and replenish hormones vital to healthy sleep cycle. Believe me, I know, ever since I started lifting I've slept SO Much better. Even through law school. The only catch being that activity TOO close to bedtime may cause exhaustion, which robs the body of actual rem sleep, and may also cause insomina through release of endorphins and other exercise-induced hormones (including testosterone and phospodiasterase which, re viagra article, will definitely keep men awake).

Alcohol. Is never the way to cure insomnia. Alcohol likes to react with water in the body essentially evaporating what is there. This is a double whammy since we rarely take-in water as we consume alcohol. So we deplete the water and leave a HUGE need behind. This causes the hang-over when excessive. The interesting thing is that alcohol does act as a depressant but can be hard on your heart. Some alcohols, when reasonably consumed, help the heart like red wine (grape seed extract is GREAT for the heart). Some alcohol actually helps the system, similar to working out, but we are talking maybe a glass does the job (probably less). When you fall alseep drunk it is similar to passing out. Your body usually skips a rem cycle to focus on the rest of your body, and your body temp goes up. One of the major bodily defects humans have is the inability to regulate body heat when we sleep. When we drink, in particular, we sweat and usually have a higher body temp for 5 - 6 hours. This will cause you to sweat and be hot, then cool significantly. Huge change, not good for sleeping, it can shock the body and keep you from rem. Not good. No drinky before the bed !

Allergies. These cause major insomnia, especially noted in the spring. This is usually seasonal, and not considered part of chronic insomnia. If you KNOW you have seasonal allergies get treated, even if you think they are minor. Small allergies nag your body enough and put enough strain on it that they can cause insomnia and actually keep your body from REM sleep. Hence, you can wake up and not have actually 'rested' your mind, equating to no actual sleep.

Interesting part of insomnia. I actually had terrible insomnia when I was in undergrad. I was going through a ton of crap and I was uber stressed. I ended up averaging, and by average I mean add'em up and divide by total, 3 hours of sleep my sophmore AND junior year, even with meds. When I was home I would sleep 10 - 12 hours at a time, which was just not like me. I used to get most of my sleep from naps, and then be up most of the night. The thing I learned from my doctor though was that when you don't sleep stuff happens to you. For one, your reaction-time can reduce to that of being inebriated, puting you at risk for driving and functioning generally. This among other things, but in particular your "ladder of life functions" falls.

"Ladder of Life Functions." This was probably the most pedestrian, and functional, model of life functions I've ever heard. Basically you have a ladder of functions. At the top you usually have needs like food, clothes, water, shelter; then you have your maslowian needs, belonging, love, identity; then you have desires; then wants; and finally piddly stuff like do I want 5 pennies or a nickle. When you lose a significant amount of sleep over time your ladder essentially falls. Your mind no longer processes things in any 'order' as it should. I know this from experience, and the trouble is the most trivial things can seem life-important. This gets dangerous as everything becomes important and you can no longer delineate between tasks. Believe you me, it sucks. So in a sense insomnia is a vicious, collapsing, cycle that feeds on itself once it gets going too far.

I'm not sure that insomnia ISN"t an american problem, because it definitely is, but I don't think the problem isolates to the US. Interestingly I think other cultures handle it better, mostly because they eat better, are more active, and discriminate against sugar-based snacks. Even where they don't, like here in sweden where everyone's always in the candy and icecream, they are probably 20 - 40% more active even in every day life.

~B

swedish sun: summer here at last?

2005-06-15T18:00:00.000+02:00

Wow, the difference between today and yesterday is remarkable. yesterday it was sunny. I went out in a T-shirt and jeans, and it was pretty comfortable. I was cool, especially walking between the shadows of buildings. Today, is completely different. Even the shade is warm, and the sun, on my face and arms, warmed me like a true summer sun. Oh, how I missed the summer sun, and I'm thrilled it's finally back. The weather will persist for the rest of the summer, I'm hoping.

It was so nice, in fact, that my dad came home early from work. I was busy so around 5 I went to get stuff for dinner. We are having one of my favorites, hamburgers and gravy with mushrooms, greenbeans and tomat/cuccumber salad with ranch. If it's like this again and he comes home early, we are going to hit one of the cool beer gardens down on the waterway near Djursholmsbron. I'll take pictures.

Hope everyone's having a wonderful day!

~B

A Light Chest Workout

2005-06-15T11:40:00.000+02:00

So, in the spirit of Johan's posting, I decided to note my work out here. Chest workout is, surprisingly, one of the things I don't worry about too much. I have a tender shoulder that limits piling on the weight, but i can press more than my body weight for 6 - 8 reps, so I'm probably doing okay. It could be worse, Jason can't even work with free weights :( Anyways, there is plent of other stuff to read on here for those who aren't into the lifting stuff.

Cables. I recently started changing up my chest work outs from bench stuff to cables at the beginning. My body seems to like it, since it's usually cranky two days later.

Today I started with set-lunging cable press (lunging postion to add constant tension to the cables for stability and some isometrics), with the handles on the top (we dont' have middle cables). Put your arms in a 'hugging' position, and maintain, do not bend elbows. Pull smoothly from the side to front position, rotating your hands slightly, your hands should cross, one on top of the other. Alternate if you want. Release slowly and repeat without stopping your motion.
15 x 25kg (55lb)(this is for each side, together it is 110lb etc)
12 x 30kg (66lb)*
9 x 35kg (77lb)
8 x 35kg (77lb)
10 x 15kg (33lb)(power set, directly from 8 x 35 to 10 x 15)
- chest generally, inner-chest

At the * you see above I started set-lunging underarm press in between sets(I don't know what they call it, but it's fun, makes your chest pull up so yer huge for like 2 seconds). The handles on the floor. Lunge forward, and set. Hold your hands near your sides/legs, keep them in tight. Palms should be forward. With the same locked hugging motion, pull smoothly up so your palms are upraised infront of your eyes. releasly slowly until just infront of your thigh, repeat. Try not to 'dip' when you repeat, it's hard on the shoulder :) I always find it easier to do these with my hands open, so it looks like I'm trying to push a box when I start, then I'm trying to put a box up on a shelf when I'm done.
15 x 12.5kg (27.5lb)(again, each side, so 55 total)
12 x 15kg (33lb)
12 x 17.5kg (38.5lb)
10 x 20kg (44lb)
15 x 10kg (22lb)(power set 10 x 20 to 15 x 10)
- upper and inner chest

Bench. I am always unhappy with my inner and upper chest, so I focus there, since any chest exercise will use your lower chest. I rarely do flat bench, and I'm almost always on the Smith Machine (the one with locks so you can't decapitate yourself as easily). My Smith machine has 10kg (22lb) weight added (actually 10 taken from the bar, but whatever). If you are using a smith find out what your counter weights are.

Inclined closegrip chest. These are great for your triceps and your inner/upper chest. Whenever you do a closegrip exercise you will want to keep your elbows as close to your body as possible. While moving them out helps some, it doesn't do anything worth while overall. If you need to know how 'inclined' to put your bench, there is usually a bench 'set' for inclined. Follow that. I usually just oggle it, and I've done it enough that it just feels right.
12 x 10kg (22lb)(again, both sides + 22lb for smith = 66lb total)
12 x 12.5kg (27.5lb)*
10 x 15kg (33lb)
10 x 17.5kg (38.5lb)
- triceps, mid/upper chest

Inclined neutral or open hand. Same idea, rack and move hands to the neutral position (usually a relatively wide position). Most 'bars' have smooth-stripes on the grips for recommended wide or neutral gripping. Again at * I racked and changed positions, like a power set.
10 x 12.5 kg
10 x 15 kg
10 x 17.5 kg
10 x 10 kg (power set)
- mid/upper chest, triceps

Double Hand Dumbell Raises. This a tricky one I picked up recently, just to change it up, I'm still not convinced it does much. Rest a dumbell in your lap, one end toward you, one away. Grab the handle with both hands together on the end nearest you. Lay back. Put your hands 'flat' against the end, handle between your thumbs and forefingers, weight resting on your hands. With the fun, hugging arm position take the weight over your head and behind you. Keep your arms from bending, raise until over your chest. Go back. Repeat. Do not let the weight go too far back.
15 x 14kg (30.8lb) * (this exercise uses only one dumbell)
12 x 16kg (35.2lb)
12 x 18kg (39.6lb)
- triceps and lower chest

Inclined Cable Flies. Yes, that's right, more cables. Inclinded bench centered between cables and pulled forward. Handles on the floor. If the bench is far enough forward can be tricky to get handles. Again fun hugging arm position, side to front, back, repeat. Do not go too far back, can hurt shoudlers. I started cables in between Sets with Double Hand Raises.
15 x 20kg (44lb) (each, so 88lb total)
12 x 22.5kg (49.5lb)
10 x 25kg (55lb)
9 x 27.5 (60.5lb)
12 x 15kg (33lb)(power set 9 x 27.5 to 12 x 15)
- center chest.

This was a light work out, and took me almost 52 minutes. I dunn how Johan gets it all in ... I didn't even rest much between sets.

~B

Miracles of VIAGRA: Not what you Think

2005-06-15T07:40:00.000+02:00

Canadian researchers recently found that Viagra Treats Children's Lethal Hypertension. VIAGRA's original market was men with Erectial Dysfunction -- you may recall the slew of commercials with semi-famous people like Bob Dole and Raphael Palmiero, with the Pepsi knock-off commercials. Anywhoo, the reason why viagra works is that it helps increase arterial bloodflow by 'relaxing' the ionic pumps by reacting with nitric oxide in smooth muscle parts of the arteries and capillaries. This enlarges the vessels and allows superior blood flow. I think it also inhibits vitamin A receptors in the eyes from transforming A to L-A, causing some 'blue' vision. A is the vitamin required for seeing in the dark (i.e. what we need to see at night, EAT your carrots!).

The reason why the drug works here is that the capillaries in the lungs, like the penis, are rich in phosphodietase which reacts with the nitric oxide. The lungs use potential gradients to transfer O2 to the blood and CO2 to the Lung(outside). When the blood vessels restrict, there is less CO2 to exchange, and the body takes in less O2. This makes it hard to breathe. This will cause the body to fatigue, and normally you will see spots or hurt in your chest. If you really want to see it do the balloon test under controlled conditions. When you have hypertension, or high blood pressure, your body will restrict your bloodvessels for protection -- so they don't bulge or get torn. There is where VIAGRA comes in. It releases tension in the blood vessels, particularly in the lungs (yes, and penis). This increases blood flow in the lungs, allowing for easier breathing. Normally children with Pulmonary Hypertension die within a year of diagnosis. Of the 15 children enrolled in this particular study, 4 died within a year, 9 continue to do well on the treatment.

I love it when something this simple comes along and has a huge impact on people's lives. It began as a product of selfish middle aged men who couldn't get it up, and now it's saving children. Brilliant.

~B

It Teases me ...

2005-06-14T08:26:00.000+02:00

I am so upset about the coolness that's been the summer here so far. It's so frustrating. It is gloriously sunny by about 5:30. I know because it streams into my bedroom, to lie gently over my sheet-cover like a dog waiting for me to get up. The irony of the amount of sun is that it's almost no warmth. How is that possible, you might ask. You seriously have to be in the sun, shaded from the wind completely to really warm your body. About the closest I've come is wearing all black and laying on the grass at school. given my pasty complexion after the winter and my general avoidance of the sun, I looked like a goth freak gone sun bunny.

I am super psyched to head back to Dallas for the summer. I am a little leary of going back without some sort of base tan. So, I'm debating tanning today (yuck) at the gym. I'm actually going to the gym a little later to see if I'll run into the Aussie. I'm doubting I will, but you never know. Actually, I've a fairly good idea it was just a fluke he was at my gym at all. BUT, I figure I am going to go bike, and possibly tan. Every time I say I'm going to go tan I chicken out. how bad can it be? I really will get fried if I go to dallas for the summer with skin this faire though.

Sorry for the lame post, but I just can't keep the MJ story as my lead for today.

~B

A BRIEF Comment on the MJ case

2005-06-14T07:41:00.000+02:00

And by brief I don't mean little boys' underwear ... So I've not followed this case at all, but I figured some of my readers did. The sequence of events is very similar to the OJ case: Criminal Trial then Civil Trial.

Criminal Trial found Here

This is where the STATE prosecutes Jackson for Crimes. The jury acquitted Jackson of all charges. A charge is like Molestation, or Murder 1 - for those who watch Law and Order and the like. There were 10 counts (different charges) including 4 counts of molestation back in 2003.

As is normal in most states that protect children and elderly, the State may present some evidence of MJ's previous activities when they are identical to the elements of thsi crime. The Yahoo! article says this is unusual. It is not. I am pretty certain MD has a smiliar evidence law. The State was allowed to present evidence of other molestations and abuses by MJ. While this is evidence, it is not conclusive. You may not present past acts to prove a crime. There are certain exceptions to this, but I doubt your could argue that molesting boys is a trait. Usually past acts are used to impeach a witness (make him or her look bad so that she is not as believable to the jury). The states are definitely split on this one, but CA is not the only one. Plus CA is a pretty strong state for the promulgation of laws creating trends across the states, so I don't know where the Yahoo! article was going on this one. My evidence is rusty, but the Yahoo! article is wrong.

The Article also says that MJ never took the stand but spoke to the court in Video Tapes. MJ never addressed the court. He was never sworn in. The Videos were evidence against him, and not MJ's use of the court system. For MJ to actually address the court he'd have to take the stand and be sworn in.

They really need to get lawyers who can write to do these things, this is a really bad article. I've read around, and not found any that are much better.

I would guess a Civil Trial will happen next. This is where the Victims(or families) from the Criminal Trial bring a case in court for Monetary recovery. You would probably see things like intentional infliction of emotional distress, tortious battery (unwanted touching), negligent and reckless endangerment, and depending on california law you may have softer laws for the family to recover under. This is where you will also see lots of settlement, because MJ doesn't want any more bad press.

I'm not EVEN going to comment on my opinions of the case. I didn't follow much.

Have a good one

~B

Bush gets Bushwacked: A joke from my Dad

2005-06-12T20:54:00.000+02:00

Of all people, my dad sent me this joke...

---------
George W. Bush is visiting an elementary school. In a fourth grade
class, he asks the students if anyone can give him an example of a
"tragedy".

One boy stands up and offers "If my best friend who lives
next door was playing in the street when a car came along and killed
him, that would be a tragedy."

"No," President Bush replies, "That would be an ACCIDENT."

A girl raises her hand. "If a school bus carrying fifty children drove
off a cliff, killing everyone involved... that would be a tragedy."

"I m afraid not," explains Mr. Bush. "That is what we would call a GREAT LOSS."

The room is silent; none of the other children volunteer. "What?" asks George W, "Isn`t there any one here who can give me an
example of a tragedy?"

Finally, a boy in the back raises his hand. In a timid voice, he
speaks: "If an airplane carrying George and Laura Bush were blown up
by a bomb, that would be a tragedy."

"Wonderful!" George W beams. "Marvelous! And can you tell me WHY that
would be a tragedy?"

"Well, Mr. President" says the boy, "because it wouldn`t be an
accident, and it certainly would be no great loss!"

---------------

HA, okay maybe it's just me but I thought it was riotous.

Hope everyone had a great weekend,

~Bsan

Crazy French Waiter

2005-06-12T07:32:00.000+02:00

If you guys remember back, I took a trip with my dad to Normandy this spring. Um, you do remember right? Oh god, never mind, here's the link. It is the weekend afterall, I can't expect people to think :) right? Here are some others: French Radio, French Driving logic, Tour Eiffel, St. Michel, Sunset over St Michel (they are all in sequence). Anyways, while we were there we had LOTS of oysters. I mean every evening meal, with no exception. The thing I really love about oysters is the changes in texture and taste depending on where you harvest them. Anyways, so our last night in Paris we go foraging for oysters, and my dad seems to remember a place his boss took him where they were just particularly good. He's really animated about it, so I figure we should just do it. So we walk around for a good hour before we find this really nice looking place with a market right beside. It's not the same place, but whatever. The wait staff comes out in spurts collecting huge trays of some of the nicest looking oysters. So, we stop in.

They weren't too busy, so we sat almost immediately. The host was very polite. He placed our table and sat us with minimal fuss. This was to be the calm before the storm that was our waiter for the evening. About ten minutes later, after more than half the restaurant filled, an average looking man in a nice suit and glass struts up to the table and starts filling water glasses, asking us about wine and what he can recommend. It is about 10C outside, and this guy is sweating, profusely. We make our order, everything seems to be fine, even if he is a little abrupt, but then again this is what I experienced overall in Paris -- given that I don't speak the french I was surprised I didn't get treated like crapola :)

So we go through the ordering okay. Then I notice this same guy flies by our table at almost a dead run. Then he does it again. He's yelling at the guy who seated us, throws a pad and pencil at him, and continues running back and forth, with bottles and hands full of glasses. Suddenly, there IS no wait staff. Then, like a floodgate, the waiter bursts from around the corner with two enormous trays of oysters followed by an enterage of misc. waitstaff, most of which is terribly underdressed. Once done serving the first trays he comes over to us. "This is the most horrible night ever," he offers, practically seething, "I apologize for the delays, but we are down two wait staff." He then starts to gimp away, and by gimp I mean this man has done enough running in dress shoes that I bet his achille's tendon is exposed.

Time passed. I am deep in conversation with my dad, and enjoying a subpar white wine, when the waiter appears and dunks his hands in our ice bucket. "I am so sorry," he defends himself, "That little asshole burned me." My father and I make appropriate apologies, though we've no idea what is going on. "Dont' worry, I will kick his ass AFTER work, hand me a plate so hot it takes the skin off. WHAT was he thinking!" I tried not to laugh, this guy was so surly he was comedic. He stumbles off again, and I half expected to see bloody footprints. For someone so lame though, he moved remarkablely fast. He came back a few minutes later with our meal, and apologised for his comments earlier. We both noted that he'd just had a rough night and not to worry about it, we were american afterall. HE actually smiled, I'm not sure if it was in appreciation of our exculpatory explanation of his actions or our poking fun at ourselves. We shall never know. He didn't revisit out table that evening. I did see him one more before we left though. With a clearing tray, he ran square into another guy with a serving tray. In the collision the poor waiter ripped his pants. This guy had been through it all and to top it off, it was just getting worse. We left around 11 pm, the place was packed, he was the only waiter, and there was a 15 - 20 person cue for seats. I think they were actually turning people away at this point. I just hope he got through the night without killing someone. The meal was supurb.

~B

Antisocial?

2005-06-11T18:27:00.000+02:00

I am supposed to go to a birthday party for a friend tonight at Bern's, which is very near me in Östermalmstorg. I really like this person, and it is probably one of the last times I'll have to go out with classmates, but you know what, I'm just not feeling it. Is that so wrong of me? Perhaps I'm being antisocial?

Firstly, Bern's almost always has a line on weekends, not to mention a steap cover (150 SEK if I remember right). That's like $20. Not to mention that drinks are pretty expensive there as well. I DID take a 2 hour nap this afternoon, but I just feel like crap. Second, I've never met a gay guy there, and let's be frank about it, as much as I want to go and get smashed, I'm feeling the effects of being single for the last 3 years. yes, I said 3(three, tre, tres, III). I'm particularly feeling the drive to just be with someone, which is dangerous. I'm hoping I'll meet someone nice this summer in Dallas. I met someone this winter, but we've not really been in touch, and he's been decidedly unresponsive to my attempts to reestablish communications.

Interestingly, I met someone at the gym yesterday. The strangeness of it all. I was very attracted to this person. I'd never seen him, or his lifting partner before, and I only noticed them because I heard tid bits of english. Apparently he used to lift at my gym all the time, just before I joined, then he moved to Gamla Stan. He seemed really really nice. He's a pop singer who just finished a video. I'm not even sure he'd be interested, but he did introduce himself after I asked his partner for a spot and then him if he lived down town. He's an aussie, and my only true love, thus far, was also an aussie. I dunno. It was just awkward. We ran into each other after he'd showered and I was picking up my gameboy in the lockerroom to go bike. I had a moment while we were talking and had to sit down. It was a bit awkward b/c I had to drive the conversation for a few minutes while he dressed. I tried to bolt a few times and he asked me a new question. Then, I made to leave and they followed. He and his lifting partner said they'd hopefully see me again. Curiouser and Curiouser.

Speaking of, I'm reading Alice's Adventures in Wonderland. I also bought Alice Through the Looking Glass - the sequel. It is incredibly easy reading, but it's always nice to go back and read the classics. There are definitely certain tonal nuances that I pick up on now that my mind's matured ... a bit at least. I also want to reread the Chronicals of Narnia before I go see them in the movies. HARRY POTTER comes out July 15, the day I travel from Montreal. I wonder if I can pick it up in the airport or something. I'm a huge fan of the HP series, as I noticed several other readers are as well. I'm tempted to go through as I'm reading and do some analysis/commentary, but I'll cross taht bridge when I get to it. I've never really done that before, so I'm not sure how into/good at it I'd be. Meh, we'll give it a spin.

My parents are gone this evening. They've a social engagement for one of my dad's collegues. It should be quite nice, they are going on a boat tour of the archipelago. Sweden has the largest brackish archipelago in the world (I think) and it is truly breath taking. I've never actually done one of the dinner and boat rides, but it's supposed to be very nice. Lots of the swedes try to get summer stuga's out in the archipelago for vacationing etc. They have this commercial here for laundry detergent that shows the ideal swedish summer stuga: little red house on a very small island (enough for a garden and a little lawn) with a clothes line drying sheets. there's a small dock for a skiff or sunfish-type sail boat. The archipelago is relatively shallow so keel boats, like J's, aren't as common as I'd originally guessed. I've done 60 hours of sailing and observation on J's, and have my level 2 license. I should just suck it up and get my level 3 so I can commission a ship; I think level 3 is a skipper's license. In any case, that's the kind of place that just looks perfect. I'm sure if I got out there though I'd have a terrible craving for something and not have the means to get it :) But, such is life.

I hope everyone's having a great weekend. I'm still not feeling this going out thing. I may go futz around later and see if I'm up to it, but I rather doubt I'll go, particularly if there is a terrible wait and a $378562738562783945623478 cover.

My best

~bRiAn

What kinda Blogger ...

2005-06-10T20:44:00.000+02:00

You Are a Snarky Blogger!

You've got a razor sharp wit that bloggers are secretly scared of.
And that's why they read your posts as often as they can!

What kind of blogger are you?

Are we in anyway surprised? I thought not. Tack Sven

~B

CE's Curséd Meme

2005-06-10T18:53:00.000+02:00

Not to point fingers and name names, but I've not done one of these yet, and I was really really hoping to not have to do them. HOwever, given said circumstances, I will overcome this challenge!

Total Number of Films Owned:Jesus H. Christ. Are you serious? My parents own 389 on DVD alone. I, personally, own 143 not including up to season 5 of southpark and several anime series(es?).

Last Film Bought: Shrek 2 (or Aladdin, I bought them simultaneously)

Last Film Watched: The Grass Harp. "When we die, it will tell our stories as well ... And I heard them, all the stories, but the only voice I heard was ..." Right, like I'd give it away.

Five MOvies that I Watch Frequently or Mean Something to Me:Princess Bride, Last Unicorn, NeverEnding Story, Space Balls, The Shining. I think just about covers the gambit.

My tags are: Anne, Kyle - b/c he'll probably be into this and can tag Trevor and Blake, and Jonah - b/c he's a talker :).

Done and Done.

~BRiAN

Formal Procession: Honor Guard

2005-06-10T18:51:00.000+02:00

Formal Procession: Honor Guard
Originally uploaded by mrbrianjapan.

This is the Honor Guard (Royal Guard I think). I missed the Mounted Guard up the front, but you all get the general impression. We see this all the time. It's so wonderful living here.

~B

Formal Procession: Band

2005-06-10T18:48:00.000+02:00

Formal Procession: Band
Originally uploaded by mrbrianjapan.

More street action today, near Normalmstorg, around 11:50 we had a formal color guard procession. I think they go to the Palace on Gamla Stan, Sven will correct me if I'm wrong.

~B

Jokes for Anne

2005-06-10T18:43:00.000+02:00

My internet's been down a good portion of the day, so I will now proceed to entangle the entire area! More posts to come!

Anne, the lovely french lady who recently refrained from slamming my English speaking abilities, is waiting for news. She's anxious enough to have started house cleaning for pete's sake. SO, I thought I'd post some jokes to pass her time. If you aren't into jokes then you've been warned and can skip this one. I post enough crap up here, daily now, that you can read something else. Sorry for being so short, but it's my naptime.
----------
Black Balls?

A caucasian man lays quietly in his hospital bed, propped up slightly, a oxygen mask over his face. He's resting up and, as always, a nurse walks in to take his vitals right as he's getting comfortable.

He suddenly gets very animated and asks the Nurse, "Nurse are my testicles black?!"

She gives the patient a hard, blank stare, "Sir, I'm not sure what you are asking."

The patient continues in his state, "Nurse you have to tell me, you have to CHECK, ARE MY TESTICLES BLACK." HE's getting flustered at this point. "Can you tell me? Are they black?"

The Nurse recovers from her initial shock and says,"I'm not sure I can tell you, I think you need the doctor to tell you."

The man asks one more time, "You can check though right, to see if they are black?"

The Nurse lifts the man's hospital gown and looks at his testicles. They are not black. The man removes the oxygen mask as the Nurse puts the man's gown back down. "That was nice Nurse, but will you just answer me, are my test results back?"

-------------------

A buddhist monk makes his first visit to New York City. The City, he understands, is famous for its hotdogs. He's really excited to try these hotdogs and searches through out the city for his firt experience. He finds the stand he wants, near Central Park, approaches the vendor and waits in line.

When he gets to the front of the line the vendor asks him,"What do you want?"

The monk looks at this surly seller of hotdogs and the perfect answer dawns on him,"Make me 'One', with everything."

(this joke is MUCH better told live).

Hope you enjoyed Anne!

~B

China: Will it Happen?

2005-06-10T14:05:00.000+02:00

I got a somewhat disappointing message from my advisor today. It looks as though china will not happen, at least not through the university venue, so I'm looking for alternatives. I really want to continue studying and researching, get some teaching in, and go to asia to do something. I do know I could probably teach english if I went to Beijing, which I'd totally love. So, who knows it's still up in the air.

At this point I'm pulling in favors right and left, trying to get things together and settle what I will do for next year. Unfortunately, these are not going as well as I'd hoped, but what can you expect, favors only travel so far. So, China has yet to 'happen' per se, but hopefully, please send good vibes my way, things will pan out in the end.

~B

A Quickie ...

2005-06-10T09:03:00.000+02:00

And no, I'm not imparting any personal experience about favors. I just wanted to clear some things up:

Yes, my English sucks, but I am NOT Swedish. I type too fast, I have horrible spelling and I suffer from ADHD to the point I couldn't even get through all the testing for diagnosis. There, I said it, it's out there.

In the spirit of the above, I want to reiterate, I am NOT SWEDISH. It would be blasphemy for me to try and hold myself out as a swede. Though, if I stay here long enough, who knows.

I am American. That should explain just about 99% of anything deviant or nonconforming on this page, whether to language or social standards.

Sven: I have definitely noticed the bad-suit-wearing phenomenon, particularly since I live in Östermalmstorg. It works in concert with the haircuts though and together compose what I like to think of as the typical swede. As brash as that sounds ...

I'll try and get a decent picture of the graduates today.

I am off to the gym for 2 hours, so it will be a while before I post again.

My next post will likely be a sad post about the China program falling through and my resulting dispare over what to do this coming year.

Is my English really that bad?

No, don't answer that

Wait, yes, do answer that ... what's sick and twisted is I TEACH legal english to people, and I'm damn good at it. Maybe it's an example of me being a better teacher than doer?

I've had more than 50 hits for the last four days running. I either need to post less to elicit more concentrated comments, or someone better stop stalking me ... I'm just putting it out there.

Hope everyone had a great day!

~BrIaN

street graduation celebration

2005-06-09T14:38:00.000+02:00

street graduation celebration
Originally uploaded by mrbrianjapan.

I know you can but barely make this out, but I only had my cell on me. As promised though on June 3, a picture of the graduates in a dumptruck driving around down town!

~B

Challenging Stigmata: A NEW theory on the Death of Jesus attempts to equate flying to crucifixion

2005-06-09T10:30:00.000+02:00

WARNING - SACRILAGE FOUND HEREIN
Challenging Stigmata? A NEW theory on the Death of Jesus.

My title is much more interesting than what Yahoo! put up. Apparently a doctor in Haifa, Isreal, will circulate his theory that Jesus died of a pulmonary embolism, running against traditional asphyxiation and the wounds causing his death. Interestingly, this doctor promotes this theory to bring education to the public about pulmonary embolism and flying ... that's right, flying.

Let's make this connection shall we?(yes, pun intended, sue me) According to the good doctor, "It is known that the common cause of death in the setting of multiple trauma, immobilization and dehydration is pulmonary embolism," wrote Brenner in Journal of Thrombosis and Haemostasis. "This fits well with Jesus' condition and actually was in all likelihood the major cause of death of crucified victims." The doctor went on to cite JAMA's 1986 paper on the probably cause of death according to scholars and the new testament. "That paper found that before his crucifixion, Jesus went 12 hours without food or water, was under emotional stress, was beaten and forced to walk to the crucifixion site carrying the heavy cross beam of the cross on which he was crucified. He also was scourged before being nailed to the cross, leading to some blood loss." If we break these down into components, let's see what the doctor was getting at:

Trauma

Trauma again, perhaps emotional

Immobilization

Dehydration

Blood loss

Now, the question is, how do these line up with flying? This is SO going to piss off the airlines if someone can actually equate flying to being crucified. The distinction probably lies in the whole death thing and collapsing lungs. I'm just saying. Let's look at flying for a second:

Trauma: packing and lugging around baggage is probably a physical trauma of sorts for an average person, particularly if they are traveling for an extended period of time. Flyers are usually anxious and nervous, and loaded with snack foods high in salt, sugar and fat to try and recoop some of their nerves. Most people are not used to being on their feet, taking their shoes on and off a few times, moving this STUPID bag up and down, on and off conveyer belts etc. The seats, I swear, are getting smaller and more uncomfortable. I don't know if they just need to get a bunch of DIY teams in there or what, but sitting on a plane is becoming physical trauma in and of itself.

Emotional Trauma: Wow, this one is pretty clear. Travelers may be leaving loved ones, returning from a funeral, going to a wedding where they secretly are imfatuated with one of the soon-to-be-spouses (see e.g. Love Actually), or travelling with children. Just generally, kids being in the vicinity when you are travelling is difficult. This is not to mention the difficulty with canceled, delayed or 'rearranged' flights, over booking, and having to answer all those questions about your luggage: "Is this your bag?" "Did you pack this bag?" "Has it been out of your control?" "And, whose bag was this again?". I used to have all the answers memorized and just said Yes, yes, no no no, yes, no. The ticketing people loved it. Wow, and not to mention the Security people. There is nothing more traumatic than security in the US. It is a federal offense to joke about bombs, and these people loom over you taunting you to just make ONE slip. Not to mention that the IQ of the security people dropped significantly after 9/11 when we had recruitment en masse. Do I have to worry about the cavity search when I ask if my computed should come out of my backpack? ala Tweek from South Park: "ACK, I can't take the pressure!"

Ahh, immoblization. I'm definitely feeling this one. I always try and get an aisle seat, but then you still can't get up that often. I fly the transatlantic at least a few times a year, and what with all the food and drinks, that don't come often enough, it's just enough to keep me in my seat. Apparently, that's the worst thing that can happen.

Dehydration. Que obvio. When you fly your body loses water at an outrageous rate. It's something like 2 - 3 times what it is on the ground. It's one of the reasons alcohol is more potent in the air. 1 in the air is 2 on the ground folks, and that means you are REALLY getting dehydrated. The dehydration keeps you from having a slash, which keeps you in your seat, thereby exacerbating point 3. DRINK MORE WATER PEOPLE!

Blood loss. This one is not necessary for an embolism, but is probably the biggest difference between flying and crucifixion. That and blunt force trauma from rocks being thrown at you, and all the stab wounds on your body and punction wounds through your wrists and feet. About the only thing I could come up with for blood loss is that period when you take off and you can feel all your rbc's running to your feet and backside. Oh, and whenever you hit turbulance and you drop feet in the air, leaving your stomach and other things where they used to be. I am not sure that rearranging blood within the body is what they had in mind though, I think it actually has to LEAVE your body to effect blood loss.

Anyways, I hope ya'll didn't find that TOO offensive. While there does seem to be a close connection between flying and crucifixion, I think the circumstances creating the embolism would differ greatly. While the idea was good, I think the good doctor missed the boat by claiming that embolism CAUSED the death and is related to flying. Great, so use crucifixion as one possible means of getting an embolism, I'm sure we can all avoid them. Good example of how an embolism may occur. However, beyond the descriptive elements of the complication itself there seem to be few actual connections between crucifixion and flying. Plus, we aren't even allowed sharp or blunt metal objects through security ...

Thoughts?

~B

Of News and Worldly Affairs

2005-06-09T08:04:00.000+02:00

Okay, so maybe not so worldy, but news anwyays. I saw this head lined on Yahoo! this morning: Army Headed to Recruiting Shortfall. While I am completely supportive of the PEOPLE, especially my friends, who are abroad and in harms way, I have to say my knee-jerk response to this article was,"w00t!"

The Army recruits something ridiculous like more than 85,000 people a YEAR. If you've not seen michael moore's recent 'documentary' (slanted, totally yellowed, but shocking) there is a tid bit about recruiting in there. Mostly it occurs in underprivileged and indigent populations. It IS a good way for these people to provide and get life-sustaining training and experiences. However, in times of protracted engagement, even the ghetto doesn't seem to be enough to drive people into the Army recreuitment offices.

The AP marked the story above mostly through percentages, nothing that, "The Army also missed its monthly targets in April, March and February — each month worse than the one before. In February it fell 27 percent short; in March the gap was 31 percent, and in April it was 42 percent." Before I read the article I expetced like 10 - 15% gaps, but 42% and GROWING? The quota for the year is 80,000 recruits. Maybe it's time to reconsider this whole extended 'war'? Just some rhetorical thoughts.

~Brian

Underwear Purposes: A Response To Jay

2005-06-08T21:30:00.000+02:00

Jay wrote this terribly funny article on men's underwear. She will be doing an 'expose' as it were on women's under garments tomorrow, so please give her some hits and check it out. Beware, there are pictures of half naked men, and not all of them are pretty ... seriously. I will try and hit the high points.

Silk boxers: great for the guy who wants a perpetual hardon. I'm serious, there is nothing more erotic than loose silk next to your manbits. tight silk is okay, but who really wants to wear tight silk boxers? I mean, really!

Boxer briefs: My biggest issue with this is the use just for the purpose of showing crotch. Well, this can totally backfire on your if you do not have decent legs or an above average ass. Gaping boxerbriefs are VERY unbecoming. Tight boxerbriefs (and I'm not talking lycra) can make this look really, well, disproportionate. The boxerbrief is definitely appropriate for the average person. To get the most out of them you should have nice legs, and an above average ass. Otherwise I recommend these for basket 'builders' so long as the rest of the trunk fits.

boxers: for those who don't really want to think about baskets or just REALLY want to surprise someone cause boxers can hide some big stuff. Boxers are pretty comfortable so long as they are the right size. I do not recommend running in boxers.

jocks and strap-type: only if you have a significant other into it, or you are REALLY REALLY trying to break your self back into underwear after going commando all your life. These can be very unflattering even on a person in great shape, and yes, I know this from experience. If you are going to pick out a pair I would recommend getting some with an extended drop pouch (so the seam is on the bottom of the front support). When you have a cross seam on the top of the pounch it maks things look a little, well, small, and if you are going to compromise yourself this far, just go for broke and make everything look bigger. Seam on the bottom ... end of story.

briefs: you really should have nice legs, and they should FIT, none of this saggy I'm kinda fat so I can't buy the right size ... you either buy em to fit or don't bother. Briefs are usually not my underwear of choice whether for me or on another. They can be nice on the right person, but they are just so unflattering.

Underarmour and Lycra: have to say I'm a BIG fan, but for reasons I won't go into here. They make your body retain heat, but they pull moisture out. They are good for working out, and REALLY REALLY accent features like ass, basket and legs. personally, I like to wear these on a first date and no ... not because I Think I'm getting any.

Everyone should have a pair of first date boxers. I know this sounds insane, but you should really have a pair of boxers that you wear for first dates, maybe they are a little unique, or maybe they make you look better in jeans. Personally I switch between Grey Underarmour boxerbriefs and boxer briefs with tigger on them.

Probably more than you wanted to know, but there it is!

~B

State of the Readers 6.08

2005-06-08T21:29:00.000+02:00

State of the Readers 6.08
Originally uploaded by mrbrianjapan.

It was a sad day in Sweden, as Tonga dropped off the Chart today after sustaining the blog we call Bell Book and Kaselholmen through its rougher periods where no one would read for weeks.

Given the sudden influx of people Canada also fell off the chart, though from commentary it is speculated that the canadian readers just do not make up a large enough percentage to appear on the chart. As a nonrepresented portion of the visitors, they are by FAR the most vocal. A trend in commentary the writer hopes others will follow with due diligence.

It may be the first day India appeared in the charts.

The strongest showing from a new country is Malaysia with three percent. Notably, Education also demonstrated a new presence, estabilishing itself with 4% among readers. American University and University of Chicago comprise a good portion of these hits.

Japan by far had the biggest single country hit contributing 9% to the total readizens.

I'm off to post a response to Jay's post on underwear!

~B

State of the Readers 6.07

2005-06-08T17:10:00.000+02:00

State of the Readers 6.07
Originally uploaded by mrbrianjapan.

For some diversity, here's another busy day (yesterday) I had the most ever to my blog ... 61 people! I was psyched.

~B

Working Out: A Response to Jonah

2005-06-08T17:06:00.000+02:00

So, in response to Jonah's comment I decided to take a few minutes and vent. I think I will also post again today, but whatever, it's been a few days since I posted anything about gym stuffs. Usually I hit etiquette. I did a weight tracker for a while, which was a total bomb since I've been dieting now for two weeks solid and I've lost antiweight. Anyways, let's get to the gripes:

I went on a 40 /40 /20 to try and put on some mass. After about a year solid of being on a low carb diet, I decided it was probably a good time to take a break and see what adding some carbs did for me. I was also a little concerned that I was lifting 6 times a week at the gym and not really seeing the results I should. SO, I went off the diet for two solid months. I gained mad weight, and I think I put on about 10 - 15lbs of lean mass. The problem was my body fat (bf) spiked. I'd been relatively lean for a year, and I figured gaining mass will help keep the bf down. Well, it didn't.

Body fat normally around 12-14%. The frustrating part is that when I was on the diet it was this low. NOW I'm in the 15% range, which is not so great for my age. I'm pretty athletic, so I figure go back on the diet, add some cardio and see what your body does. Well, my body fat does not seem to be changing much. It's just frustrating. Hopefully I'll see some results before I head back to the states. I've never had abs or anything, so I'm not pining over that, but I am a little worried that my stomach won't be flat again without taking some kind of drastic measure, aka cosmetic surgery.

Weight changes. When I was on the diet I was keeping my weight down to about 165 - 170 range. Rockin, I know, at 5'9 165 is a great weight for someone who is active. The problem being, when I went off the diet I gained about 20 lbs. The heaviest I was in the two month period was 190, then I tapered to about 185. That is frustrating, since I'm not used to weighing that much. I actually think a good 12 - 15 of that is muscle. Having extra weight, muscle or fat, really makes a difference in terms of doing cardio and heat changes. I notice when I do cardio that it takes a bit to get into a steady pace, my body wants to keep short strides etc. I tend to sweat alot more, which is just not pleasant for anyone, even at teh gym. I want to get back down to 175, but after some serious deprivational dieting, I've not budged from 185. I hope that's not a bad sign. I'll stick to the sick notion that it's actually just a sign I'm packing on muscle while shedding de fat. Uh huh, in my dreams.

What's gone right then? Actually, several things have gone right. I'm definitely bigger than I was overall. My friend D swears she can't even put her arms all the way around me, a huge difference from this fall she tells me. I started working legs a bit harder when I went for the see-food diet, since my legs are easily my biggest muscle mass from playing soccer. I've not been very happy with the progress of my leg workouts since I can only squat(legs), comfortably, about 120 kg (120 x 2.2 = 264 lbs). I want to get up to about 130kg (286 lbs). I am FINALLY pressing(chest) my body weight, maybe a little more, and I can definitely pull(back) more than my body weight. I've also started to curl more than 30kg (66lbs), which was my pique for the longest time. My shoudlers are finally filling in some after really doubling up on shoulder exercises (probably my least impressive body part :( ). all in all though I think, in terms of moving weights around, I'm doing pretty good.

What's next? So, now I've added cardio to my work out in an attempt to shed pounds. It apparently is moving against me, probably because I'm only biking/running. The inherent problem herein is that I think my legs are gaining weight, which is great, a month from now when the testosterone helps me build the rest of the body to burn of some of the viceral fat on the stomach. The immediate frustration is the lack of results and the persistence of my weight at (84kg) 185 lbs. I am actually a TON of cardio, a good 45 minute bike at a heartrate over 150 4 - 6 tims a week ... My legs are definitely sore :) I kinda like that, reminds me of playing soccer, but something needs to change soon or I'm going to have to change it up again. When I'm in Dallas this summer I will probably join a gym for a month. It will be a nice body shock to go back to the english system -- I personally think the metric system in the gym forces you to go up in weight faster. Perhaps I'll get a couple session with a trainer to go over diet and a few set exercise routines.

What do you guys do? I know Grace goes to a gym like all the time. I assume Jonah does as well. Tell us about it :)

Have a good one people!

~Brian

State of the Readers 6.06

2005-06-07T08:21:00.000+02:00

bbk606
Originally uploaded by mrbrianjapan.

For some reason I had the busiest unique-traffic day yesterday on BBK!!! w00t!! I'm pretty psyched about it.

Here is the breakdown of the readers yesterday. I'm FINALLY getting a steady read from asia, and Tonga is still with us - shouts out to Tonga, the tiny but stable!

I figured you guys wouldn't want to see all the charts, so I am only posting this one. If you really want to see all the statistics and stuff click on the Sitemeter icon on the bottom of my page. I'm pretty sure I still have open access to most of it.

Hope you all have a great week!

~BrIan

New Blogs to Read?

2005-06-07T08:13:00.000+02:00

I'm trying to expand my blog-reading, now that I have a little more down time. Hopefuly I can keep up with it because I've found some pretty cool blogs. I hope you enjoy them as well. To protect the sheltered and faint-of-heart I've added descriptions to each link.

Trevor: This kid is pretty cool. He actually started blogging to create a faux rivalry. He's a very dry sense of humor, and he's from Canadia ... I highly recommend this is a daily read (plus his posts aren't as long as mine so they are easier to get through).

KNOTTY: KNotty lives up in Wyoming of all places. He likes to post video of himself in compromising positions. And by compromising I mean funny, and by funny I mean half asleep after the cattle woke him up or fashioning jewelry.

Jason: Lol, this guy is apparently easy to stalk (it's in his by-line I'm serious!), and is currently looking into renting a house from his Aunt S while he pursues a guy who came in and flirted with him outrageously at work.

Accidental Boyfriend: Is currently looking for job after quitting his life on cruiseships and entering a relationship. Apparently it's going well :) He's currently living in NYC which, as we all know, is the center for all kinds of fun stuff.

Hope you all enjoy

~B

Lemon Drop Martini

2005-06-06T20:35:00.000+02:00

this is for Jason:

I didn't even look this one up, but then I figured it would be good to get an idea of what you are probably getting. I'm not understanding the addition of water, unless it's sugar syrup.
-----------
Traditional vodka martini = straight up vodka, iced

Lemon drop = absolut citron (which is lemon vodka, substitutes available, especially stoli) chilled, usually as a shot with sugared lemon wedge

Lemon Drop Martini = lemon drop shot on bigger scale :)

I'd try the following in my bar, depending on the person:

LEMON DROP MARTINI: 3:1:1 - citron, lemon juice, triple sec

For a quicker version - try to get about 3 parts citron, 1/2 squeezed lemon, shot of ginger or seltzer to taste (the carbination helps for some reason)

Other variations:
What's Cooking America
Drinks Master
BarTV
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If you are a bartender looking for some technique or want to impress your friends:

Chill the Glasses - put ice with a liquid in the glasses before you start mixing. Usually tenders have these lined up under the bar for speed. Crushed ice preferable to cubes. I usually put seltzer in my glasses, I don't know why, one of the oldschoolers told me to. If you are at home, just use water, but ALWAYS CHILL YOUR GLASS FIRST.

Mixing - ice first, then your biggest part. IF you have a 'tip', usually a three count(1 onethousand, 2 onethousand etc.) is a drink. I usually pour heavy for martini's. Once it's all in the shaker, really shake it. You will know it's 'really shaken' when the sound/texture changes.

Shaking - If you are using the classic glass/metal shaker setup, dont' be afraid to use both hands. You will want to 'pour' from the metal shaker, so let all the drink run out of the glass BEFORE you lift it off. If you are having a party and want to impress, practice one-handed in the bathtub with a bucket of ice + water. Use your dominant hand. The Glass is usually 'cocked' at an angle inside the shaker, make sure they meet completely or you'll look like a dork when your drink goes everywhere. Put the glass between your thumb and forefinger, the metal shaker in your hand. Raise your elbow so it is level with your shoudler (shaker over head now, almost liek you are going to throw a football). Shake. The fun part is that your bicep should 'roll' back and forth. Built guys like this. So do spectators.

Tasting - if you are making a drink for the first time, take a straw and dip it in, hold it with your finger like when you were a kid, and taste. If it isn't right, try again. NEVER SERVE A BAD DRINK, if you can help it. I went through a whole box of straws my first month. No joke. The barbacks had marked it with red letters :)

For drinks like the Lemon Drop - empty the water in a sink. Take a lemon wedge and run it around the rim of the glass. I usually run/squeeze it inside the glass as well to get some raw juice for contrast. Make a plate of sugar. Rotate the rim, glass upside down, on the place for the edge. Turn upright. Gently strain in the cocktail in a circular pattern for some movement. no ice should get in the drink. Strip the lemon wedge of the 'meat', twist, and drop in. The drink should still be moving when the customer takes it.

Hope that helps some!

~Brian

Having Worked in a Gay Bar: The Essentials

2005-06-06T15:38:00.000+02:00

I was really stretching for a new subject to talk about today. I've recently come across a few blogs, and I'm starting to read them regularly. They've added a new perspective to my blog-reading experience, since I probably read about 200 - 300% more than I post. Let me tell you, it's a lot of reading, and I'm not sure people notice. I, personally, find it very refreshing, particularly when you come across someone with a flare for making me laugh at 7 am -- no easy task since I'm physically awake while my mind continues to sleep until 8 or so. The following is a series of distinctions one may make between a Gay and a Straight bar, and just gay terms generally, but I like the idea that I harnessed SOME education from working at a gay bar, even if for only a short time. Again this is an overview and not a comprehensive elaboration. I hesitate to even attempt to write about all the variants out there ... due to no better legal pun, it'd be impossible to produce and refine such a volumnious document. I started off barbacking on the weekends and tending on Tues/Weds nights while going to law school...

The Drinks. One of the best things I took away from bartending generally, is the ability to make superior mixed drinks. My bar didn't have beer on tap. I almost DIED when I found out, as a barback I was psyched not to have to move the kegs, but seriously, tapping a keg was the ONE thing I knew coming into the whole mess. Anyways, we still had beer, you just had to order bottlenecks, with fun twist-off caps that tore up wet fingers (washing dishes AND serving ALWAYS sucks). I am now the best chocolate macaroon and cosmo mixer I know, and I make a very delicious, very inebriating key lime pie. I learned the Cosmo from the one woman who worked there, and she was a little stingy with her recipe, but we worked it out eventually. If she wasn't working, people would ask for me to make them.

The Shots. The other thing you got good at, and fast, were shots. Everyone orders shots, and they had to be done quickly. I used to keep vodka and tequila on ice just for shot making. Of course we all learned the red headed sluts, the italian surfer, the b52, but my favorite was the dreamsicle (orange and vanilla), plus I also made the chocolate macaroon a shot.

Boi. An interesting aspect of working in a bar generally, but at a gay bar specifically, is the lingo you hear. Boi, for instance, is a usually what you heard coaches calling you middle school, "Boi, what are you doing ... I said CATCH the ball. Now go do a lap." They never knew our names, and apparently that carries over to our lives in adulthood. Usually if you hear someone addressed as boi, the 'i' spelling apparently being the gay man's preference as witnessed on any gay personal or chat site, it is not necessarily a good thing. In my experience it is supposed to impart inferiority and usually associated with submissive men. I've seen 6'5 marines called boi at my counter, and they didn't even blink, as their 'partner' comes over. I'm sure they enjoy that kind of play, but I don't appreciate being called boi, and it only happened once. My regulars were out of town for the white party, and a mixed crowd was in there. We were pretty busy and some guy kept shouting for my attention. He left and came back, grabbed my attention and said,"Boi, when I want a drink I expect you to resond. You got that boi?" I gave the guy a level look, "You call me boi one more time and you won't drink here again. I'll serve you when you learn my name and use it." My boss was with my in the Pit and just started LAUGHING ... me, I didn't think it was so funny. I did get a $40 tip and the guy knew my name and made sure everyone else in the place kenw my name before the night was over.

Using numbers and associations. Gay men love to use numbers, acronyms and close associations. For instance, straight is str8, later is l8r, talk to you later is ttyl etc. Most of this, I think, came from the chatting phenomenon in the late 80's early 90's. We except most of this as common language now, like lol and cya. Gay men have others, and I'm trying to think of the good ones: fish - women, breeders - straight people, homeowner - gay guy (homo-wner) -- I still can't listen to realestate commercials without getting a smile on my face, family - gay/lesbian, trader - straight man into getting favors for no reciprocation, dump - not even touching this one, my mom reads this for pete's sake! anyways, there's a few examples.

Girl. Actually, Big Girl is more appropriate. We had a very eclectic group, but they all used very similar lingo. We had regular martini glasses, and what I called the obscenely LARGE martini glass. They all laughed at me because I'd refuse to call it a Big Girl Glass, the whole Girl and Bitch thing just never worked for me. The cattiness between guys where they use the word bitch, not working for me. Unless you are using it in a derogatory way, like you are lower than snake shit. Then again, I've always appreciated more thoughtful and colorful language given my southern background. In any event, if someone wanted a big martini they'd ask for a big girl drink ... stereo types do, in fact, come from places of certainty, I can vouch for that :)

Meet Thor and Allthor. And by thor I mean tore, as in 'tore up.' This was common language used in the bar, usually behind someone's back. Tore usually meant,"wow, that person is trashy (dressed)." For guys that's pretty extreme, since gay men get away with enseble murder. Note to gay community: sometimes surprises are NICE, keep it wrapped up, but identifiable, for the bedroom. Alltore was usually Tore's buddy who was stoned or trashed. The two always went together, you could not have an alltore without a tore, and let's be honest, tore usually has an alltore in tow. If you ever hear people saying this at a party, and they are male, I'd assume they were gay and catty. It's just another way of point and saying,"oh my god can you believe what 'she's' wearing?!' and by she I mean gay-he.

Taking it slow. Wow, okay so this has been a surprise to most of my straight friends. Taking it slow in the regular world means not quite dating, not really committed, but seeing each other, seeing where things go. In the gay community, taking it slow is,"we aren't dating we are just doing each other." Often gay guys use this with their straight friends with the intent to give the illusion of morals. I'm doing my best to educate the straight community, but DAMN is it hard to explain sometimes. Most of my friends know at least, and you all know now. I don't use the phrase, as a traditionalist, which SEVERELY hinders my dating ability, wait ... I can't talk about this, parents may read it. Let's just say I follow the conservative approach to dating which frustrates most men. The gay community likes to take the traditional approach and turn it around, hedonists! Just PLEASE wear the condoms people ... no matter how you identify.

Hooking up. This phrase has SO evolved. I still assume, when I hear it, that it is touching and kissing, no penetration, no special accoutraments needed. Hmm, apparently I'm so outdated as to be draconian. I've come to the conclusion that hooking up is usually full on," We were together and we 'knew' each other." Meaning, in the biblical sense ... er ... I am NOT getting into the whole bible/non-missionary sex thing. In any case, I would hear people saying all the time," Oh now, don't go for that one, 'she's' dirty. She's hooked up with half the people in here." Grossness, even if it only meant kissing ... EWWWW.

I guess I'll tie off these ends here, casting my 'bitter end'. I hope this wasn't too graphic for my audience, but I figured ya;ll need a little change up since gym and school stuff is SO damn monotonous. Have a great week!

~Brian

Reinstatement of the Day of Cheat

2005-06-05T07:42:00.000+02:00

UPDATE
I decided to add a little tidbit in here since you all seem to have some many questions about my diet. Actually, I conspired with a few trainers in the whole concept of a cheat day, it seemed to suit my lifestyle best, and I used to use it on other diets. It's always treated me well.

The idea is that your body, as Jay said, cannot handle the load, and passes most of it without getting any real nutrients. The kicker is that I dont' take many good things in anyways on cheat days, so it's probably for the best that my body rejects the masse. If you are on a low-carb or low-fat diet I recommend finding fat and/or carb blockers for the day. Carb blockers are usually only white kidneybean extract (keeps from you digesting sugars and startches, i.e. inhibits amylaze production). I do NOT recommend taking these in large quantities. But try it out. I usually feel like total shite by the end of the day, and wonder why I did it, but all in all it keeps me true to the diet.
-----------------

It was truly inevitable. I'm sure that C and D, Isabo and my parents are thinking, "We knew you couldn't stay away from it." In part Cheat Day is a dual notion: (1) I'm dieting and (2) if I'm on a serious diet I get a day of complete glutton and gorging. Brian on a diet, of some kind, surprised? Not really. I am usually surprised at the amount of people NOT on diets. Given the commercial push for the consumption of fast foods, fats and refined sugars, I'm never amazed at the amount of 'dieting' going on at any given time. The two trends really drive each other, though one is considerably healthier than the other. I will say this, and I mean it, "DIET and EXERCISE are the keys to a healthy lifestyle." End of story, if you do diet, it is critical that your help your body adjust by doing SOME exercise, whether lifting at the gym, swimming or doing some cardio. Whatever. Your body does have some basic needs for movement and exercise so it can efficiently move the crap you ingest through your system, 30 minutes a week. That's only like 5 minutes a day people ... seriously, JUST DO IT!

Okay, now that that is over, let's get to the good stuff: CHEAT DAY!
Cheat day always accompanies my low carb diet. During the week I cut out all most all carbs, getting mostly side-carbs ad low impact carbs from greens, eggs and peanuts. During this time I have INSANE cravings for things (No, missy, not cheese ... I can eat as much cheese as I want :) )usually sweets, chocolate, and french fries (which are just the most useless food ever, and bad for you to boot). So, on the day of cheat, the goal is to engorge, and I do, usually to the point of discomfort. It's an interesting tactic since the promise of eating whatever I want for a whole day gets me over the fear of deprivation associated with dieting. The interesting thing about engorging, is that your body cannot efficiently store the energy so the majority of the fat and carbs pass through you (think WOW, O-Lean or Malitol on a smaller scale).

So far today I've had one chocolate ball, 5 cookies( have a box of 30, and I intend to finish it) and some diet soda. HA, I know right, diet soda ... what's the point? I'm off to make a chocolate cake with chocolate frosting, which my family will help me finish off in one day. The worst part of the cheat day is that I will be completely irritable and sick later. Then, on Monday, I go back to the extreme diet. Hmm ... it kind of makes me look forward to the week, because I feel SO good when I'm on the Diet.

Hope everyone's having a great weekend, I need to go make CAKE!

w00t!

~B