I am really sick of walking into the bathroom at work and finding an unflushed toilet. A few things... this is a bathroom that only staff uses, so it cannot be blamed on a tenant. Also, because it is a one person restroom, there is no urinal, so you are forced to use a toilet. That said... FLUSH!!!! Is it that hard? I know you don't like touching the flusher on the toilet, but neither do I. I still do it. It is the polite and right thing to do. I am getting really sick of walking into the bathroom to find a toilet full of piss. It's really not that hard.
As long as I am on the topic, I really do not like the smelly poops. I know they happen, and no one can be faulted for it, but it doesn't mean I have to like it. So... what do we do about it? Well, for starters, flush on contact. Instead of letting your poo sit in the turlet for awhile, flush right away. That gets rid of a lot of smells. Second, I do think it would be nice if all public restrooms provided room spray. It would certainly freshen things up. I hate walking into a bathroom and am then forced to breathe out of my mouth because the odor is so bad. Sprayers would be nice.
And what's with leaving used paper towels on the ground? You would not do that at home, so why on Earth would you do that in public. Here is a novel idea... after you wash your hands (and I truly hope everyone does), dry them off with a paper towel and then throw it in the wastebasket. Interesting idea, huh?
Okay, I realize this was kind of gross, but with a little cooperation, we could all have nicer and cleaner bathrooms.
Check back often for more Random Ramblings!
Monday, April 26, 2010
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Wedding Update
If you can believe it, the wedding is less than six months away. So fun!!! Here are a few updates for those who are curious...
- We met with the Rabbi last night to really go over the nuts and bolts of the ceremony. We went through each prayer that will be said so he could adjust the language if it said things like "bride and groom." He has been very thoughtful and wonderful through this whole process. He is even trying to do things like say "Chad and Alex" one time and then the next time say "Alex and Chad" so that we both go first at different times.
- We have actually decided that the rehearsal for the ceremony will be at 1:00pm on Saturday. This is great because the Rabbi will actually be there. I have never been to a rehearsal where the Rabbi is present, but he said he could be there if we wanted, and we definitely do.
- We've got the invitations. They really have nothing to do with our colors, but most importantly, Chad and I love them. I am excited to send them out.
- We also have our rings. I have been really anxious to wear mine lately for some reason. Well, in less than six months I get to wear it for the rest of my life. Good times!
- We have chosen our musician for the ceremony. We will be doing a single violinist which we both think will be really pretty. We went back and forth about a pianist too, but ultimately decided on just the violinist.
- Next up on the list is to order the kippot for everyone. I am pretty sure we know which ones we are going to do, we just need to order them.
- Another thing we need to decide quickly is the tuxedo situation. Chad and I both have our own, so we need to see them next to each other. That will help us determine if we are going to have everyone rent the same one, or allow people who own their own to wear that one. In any case, the vests and ties will be rented to match each other. This applies only to the wedding party, obviously.
And there you have it. That is the latest and greatest. I will post more information closer to the event. Get excited... only 171 days!!!
Check back often for more Random Ramblings!
- We met with the Rabbi last night to really go over the nuts and bolts of the ceremony. We went through each prayer that will be said so he could adjust the language if it said things like "bride and groom." He has been very thoughtful and wonderful through this whole process. He is even trying to do things like say "Chad and Alex" one time and then the next time say "Alex and Chad" so that we both go first at different times.
- We have actually decided that the rehearsal for the ceremony will be at 1:00pm on Saturday. This is great because the Rabbi will actually be there. I have never been to a rehearsal where the Rabbi is present, but he said he could be there if we wanted, and we definitely do.
- We've got the invitations. They really have nothing to do with our colors, but most importantly, Chad and I love them. I am excited to send them out.
- We also have our rings. I have been really anxious to wear mine lately for some reason. Well, in less than six months I get to wear it for the rest of my life. Good times!
- We have chosen our musician for the ceremony. We will be doing a single violinist which we both think will be really pretty. We went back and forth about a pianist too, but ultimately decided on just the violinist.
- Next up on the list is to order the kippot for everyone. I am pretty sure we know which ones we are going to do, we just need to order them.
- Another thing we need to decide quickly is the tuxedo situation. Chad and I both have our own, so we need to see them next to each other. That will help us determine if we are going to have everyone rent the same one, or allow people who own their own to wear that one. In any case, the vests and ties will be rented to match each other. This applies only to the wedding party, obviously.
And there you have it. That is the latest and greatest. I will post more information closer to the event. Get excited... only 171 days!!!
Check back often for more Random Ramblings!
Monday, April 19, 2010
Greatest Musicals
Everyone knows I love going to see musicals at the theater. Is it because I am gay? Maybe. But in any case, I love seeing shows. It is two hours where you get transformed to another place, and in some cases, another time. You leave your worries behind, and sit there and enjoy the performance, and sing to yourself. That said, today's blog will be my top 10 favorite musicals of all time. I tried putting them in order, but that proved an impossible fete. So... here they are in no particular order:
1. Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat - If there were an order, this and Mamma Mia would rank in at a shared spot for #1. I love this show. It is fun, colorful, musical, and seeing some hot guy with a good body run around in a diaper for 2 hours is not so bad either.
2. Mamma Mia - As I just said, this would share the spot of #1. This show not only has AMAZING music, but I love to laugh, and I laugh plenty every time I see this show. Side note... this one also has hot guys running around in little clothing... or at least in wetsuits.
3. The Wedding Singer - Likely not in anyone else's top 10... probably not even their top 50. But, I loved this show. I only saw it once, and laughed through the entire thing. Perhaps it is because I grew up in the 80's, or because it has a rockin' soundtrack with killer 80's hair, in either case... a show that will likely never tour again, that I will always appreciate.
4. Fiddler on the Roof - An oldie, but a goodie. This show is actually pretty funny too, when played by the right Tevye. It also shows hope, struggle, loss, family, religion, and a lot of other important messages.
5. Aida - A musical that people often forget about. This one has an AMAZING soundtrack and a great story line. It has a completely tragic ending, but still one of those shows I love to see.
6. Les Miserables - Another old school musical, but still a great one. Truth be told... I have seen his show probably 5 or more times, and still do not always understand it. But it is extremely powerful and one that almost everyone has seen at some point.
7. Avenue Q - I saw it again last night, and I almost wet my pants whenever I see it. If you like to laugh, this show is a must-see. There are songs like, "Everyone's a Little bit Racist," "The Internet is for Porn," and "I'm Not Wearing Underwear Today." You cannot go wrong with a show like this. That said, if you get offended easily, stay away. This musical will offend every single person somehow... and I love it!!!
8. Cabaret - A very dark show, but another good one. They have very interesting characters that make you want to know more about them. A good soundtrack, but it is always better in person. Listening to it in my car, I often skip most of the songs, yet I still love this show.
9. Rent - The latest cliche to hit the stage. I almost did not want to list this one, because EVERYONE loves Rent, but the truth is... so do I. It is an awesome show, with wonderful music, and very real stories. It certainly impacts everyone who sees it one way or another.
10. Wicked - You didn't think I would forget this one did you? Another that makes me laugh. Glinda is everyone's favorite "blonde" and Elphaba is certainly the underdog. This show has taken the world by storm, and I love, love, love it!!
So that is what I have. Leave a comment and let me know which ones you agree with, and which ones I may have left out.
Check back often for more Random Ramblings!
1. Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat - If there were an order, this and Mamma Mia would rank in at a shared spot for #1. I love this show. It is fun, colorful, musical, and seeing some hot guy with a good body run around in a diaper for 2 hours is not so bad either.
2. Mamma Mia - As I just said, this would share the spot of #1. This show not only has AMAZING music, but I love to laugh, and I laugh plenty every time I see this show. Side note... this one also has hot guys running around in little clothing... or at least in wetsuits.
3. The Wedding Singer - Likely not in anyone else's top 10... probably not even their top 50. But, I loved this show. I only saw it once, and laughed through the entire thing. Perhaps it is because I grew up in the 80's, or because it has a rockin' soundtrack with killer 80's hair, in either case... a show that will likely never tour again, that I will always appreciate.
4. Fiddler on the Roof - An oldie, but a goodie. This show is actually pretty funny too, when played by the right Tevye. It also shows hope, struggle, loss, family, religion, and a lot of other important messages.
5. Aida - A musical that people often forget about. This one has an AMAZING soundtrack and a great story line. It has a completely tragic ending, but still one of those shows I love to see.
6. Les Miserables - Another old school musical, but still a great one. Truth be told... I have seen his show probably 5 or more times, and still do not always understand it. But it is extremely powerful and one that almost everyone has seen at some point.
7. Avenue Q - I saw it again last night, and I almost wet my pants whenever I see it. If you like to laugh, this show is a must-see. There are songs like, "Everyone's a Little bit Racist," "The Internet is for Porn," and "I'm Not Wearing Underwear Today." You cannot go wrong with a show like this. That said, if you get offended easily, stay away. This musical will offend every single person somehow... and I love it!!!
8. Cabaret - A very dark show, but another good one. They have very interesting characters that make you want to know more about them. A good soundtrack, but it is always better in person. Listening to it in my car, I often skip most of the songs, yet I still love this show.
9. Rent - The latest cliche to hit the stage. I almost did not want to list this one, because EVERYONE loves Rent, but the truth is... so do I. It is an awesome show, with wonderful music, and very real stories. It certainly impacts everyone who sees it one way or another.
10. Wicked - You didn't think I would forget this one did you? Another that makes me laugh. Glinda is everyone's favorite "blonde" and Elphaba is certainly the underdog. This show has taken the world by storm, and I love, love, love it!!
So that is what I have. Leave a comment and let me know which ones you agree with, and which ones I may have left out.
Check back often for more Random Ramblings!
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
A New MOT
I am so proud of Chad. Tomorrow, he officially becomes an MOT (Member of the Tribe). Yes, tomorrow Chad completes his conversion and will become Jewish. It is such a big deal, and I am so proud of him.
When Chad and I met, he told me that he had been interested in Judaism, and had previously thought of converting. Once we began dating, he knew this was something he wanted to do. He went and met with the Rabbi, and his Jewish Journey officially began. In addition to regular meetings with the Rabbi, Chad was also doing a lot of studying on his own. He was reading, discovering, and researching all things that are Jewish. He started becoming more involved in the Jewish community by attending services, volunteering, and donating.
Eventually, the "Fundamentals of Judaism" class at Temple started, and then Chad really got the nuts and bolts of the Jewish religion. Clearly, there is a LOT more to our religion that can ever be taught in a 17-week class. Also leading up to it, Chad had his ritual circumcision (I say ritual because he already was circumcised) and had to write an essay on a variety of Jewish topics. Now, we are at the final stage.
Tomorrow Chad will go to the Mikvah. First he will meet with the Bet Din. This is a panel of Rabbis and scholars that will talk to him about his intentions. It is not a quiz so much as it is a group to make sure he is doing the right thing and for the right reason. After they agree that he is, Chad goes into the Mikvah. This is a cleansing process and almost like a re-birth. After the Mikvah, some prayers are said, and the Jewish population will grow by one.
I am getting emotional writing this. To some, it may seem like not a big deal. But it is a big deal... a HUGE deal. To find a religion, and a spiritual connection that finally gives you meaning and the desire to belong is an incredible thing that not all people find. Watching Chad continue on his journey is a true pleasure. Chad wants to make sure he is doing things because it makes sense for him, not because it is how I do it, or how my family does it. I love watching him and seeing him grow.
As I said, I am so proud of him for all he has accomplished so far, and all that he will continue to accomplish. I am proud to be marrying my b'sheret in 180 days, and I am thrilled to continue our Jewish Journey together for years to come.
Check back often for more Random Ramblings!
When Chad and I met, he told me that he had been interested in Judaism, and had previously thought of converting. Once we began dating, he knew this was something he wanted to do. He went and met with the Rabbi, and his Jewish Journey officially began. In addition to regular meetings with the Rabbi, Chad was also doing a lot of studying on his own. He was reading, discovering, and researching all things that are Jewish. He started becoming more involved in the Jewish community by attending services, volunteering, and donating.
Eventually, the "Fundamentals of Judaism" class at Temple started, and then Chad really got the nuts and bolts of the Jewish religion. Clearly, there is a LOT more to our religion that can ever be taught in a 17-week class. Also leading up to it, Chad had his ritual circumcision (I say ritual because he already was circumcised) and had to write an essay on a variety of Jewish topics. Now, we are at the final stage.
Tomorrow Chad will go to the Mikvah. First he will meet with the Bet Din. This is a panel of Rabbis and scholars that will talk to him about his intentions. It is not a quiz so much as it is a group to make sure he is doing the right thing and for the right reason. After they agree that he is, Chad goes into the Mikvah. This is a cleansing process and almost like a re-birth. After the Mikvah, some prayers are said, and the Jewish population will grow by one.
I am getting emotional writing this. To some, it may seem like not a big deal. But it is a big deal... a HUGE deal. To find a religion, and a spiritual connection that finally gives you meaning and the desire to belong is an incredible thing that not all people find. Watching Chad continue on his journey is a true pleasure. Chad wants to make sure he is doing things because it makes sense for him, not because it is how I do it, or how my family does it. I love watching him and seeing him grow.
As I said, I am so proud of him for all he has accomplished so far, and all that he will continue to accomplish. I am proud to be marrying my b'sheret in 180 days, and I am thrilled to continue our Jewish Journey together for years to come.
Check back often for more Random Ramblings!
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
Top 20 Shows
First off, everyone should thank Danny Cohn for this blog. He gave me the idea, as I requested in my previous post. No thanks to those of you who did not offer any suggestions. You know who you are. Well... pretty much everyone in the world other than Danny Cohn.
Now, onto the blog. Here are my top 20 TV shows of all time. Yes, I have done a similar post in the past. Yes, I am missing a LOT of shows. But you try to come up with only 20. It's hard. Here we go, and in no particular order:
1. Friends - Okay, this one is in order. Best TV show of all time!
2. Facts of Life - You've got a fat girl, a lesbian, a spoiled brat, and a black girl on roller skates. What could be better?
3. Roseanne - I still love this show. As disgusting as this family is, they make me laugh... HARD!
4. Will & Grace - This show did a lot for the gays. That said, there isn't a character on TV (past or present) better than Karen Walker.
5. Big Brother - I love the reality shows (as you will see), and Big Brother is one of the reasons I look forward to each summer.
6. Amazing Race - This show really is amazing. The things they do and the places they go are unreal. Now if only they would let me cast the show.
7. Survivor - Sticking with the reality theme, I have not missed one of the 20 seasons thus far. They have a good thing going and it is still fun to watch.
8. Saved by the Bell - Come on... Zack Morris had the biggest cell phone in the world... not to mention the most "plastic" hair do.
9. Baywatch - You've got eyes, right? Enough said.
10. Beverly Hills 90210 - Everyone of us wanted to be just like them in high school. Don't deny it.
11. Melrose Place - They call it a spin-off from 90210, but it had nothing to do with this show. This one did just fine all by itself. However, the current one needs some help, and it is going to take more than Amanda Woodward to fix it.
12. Different Strokes - Everyone wanted a limo and a housekeeper!
13. Judging Amy - Likely not on many people's list, but if you ever watched Maxine work people over, you would be hooked instantly.
14. Golden Girls - Each one of those ladies was funnier than the next. We can all see ourselves in one of them... clearly, I am Dorothy.
15. Night Court - An oldie, but a goodie. So unrealistic, and yet, so fun to watch.
16. Private Practice - Currently on TV, and such a good drama. They have AMAZING writers that keep coming up with these story lines that just pull you in.
17. The Mole - Easily one of the best reality shows EVER. They kept trying to bring it back, and it never did stellar in the ratings, but let me tell you... the show was AWESOME!
18. Love Boat - As everyone knows, I love being on a cruise. I believe this show is part of the reasons. Just call me Julie McCoy.
19. Small Wonder - I always wanted a talking robot.
20. The Real World - I am definitely partial to season 9 (New Orleans). This was the first of the reality shows, and it was always a favorite. It is too bad the show has turned to such trash... I have not watched in several years.
There you have it. Alright, lay it on me... which shows did I forget?
Check back often for more Random Ramblings!
Now, onto the blog. Here are my top 20 TV shows of all time. Yes, I have done a similar post in the past. Yes, I am missing a LOT of shows. But you try to come up with only 20. It's hard. Here we go, and in no particular order:
1. Friends - Okay, this one is in order. Best TV show of all time!
2. Facts of Life - You've got a fat girl, a lesbian, a spoiled brat, and a black girl on roller skates. What could be better?
3. Roseanne - I still love this show. As disgusting as this family is, they make me laugh... HARD!
4. Will & Grace - This show did a lot for the gays. That said, there isn't a character on TV (past or present) better than Karen Walker.
5. Big Brother - I love the reality shows (as you will see), and Big Brother is one of the reasons I look forward to each summer.
6. Amazing Race - This show really is amazing. The things they do and the places they go are unreal. Now if only they would let me cast the show.
7. Survivor - Sticking with the reality theme, I have not missed one of the 20 seasons thus far. They have a good thing going and it is still fun to watch.
8. Saved by the Bell - Come on... Zack Morris had the biggest cell phone in the world... not to mention the most "plastic" hair do.
9. Baywatch - You've got eyes, right? Enough said.
10. Beverly Hills 90210 - Everyone of us wanted to be just like them in high school. Don't deny it.
11. Melrose Place - They call it a spin-off from 90210, but it had nothing to do with this show. This one did just fine all by itself. However, the current one needs some help, and it is going to take more than Amanda Woodward to fix it.
12. Different Strokes - Everyone wanted a limo and a housekeeper!
13. Judging Amy - Likely not on many people's list, but if you ever watched Maxine work people over, you would be hooked instantly.
14. Golden Girls - Each one of those ladies was funnier than the next. We can all see ourselves in one of them... clearly, I am Dorothy.
15. Night Court - An oldie, but a goodie. So unrealistic, and yet, so fun to watch.
16. Private Practice - Currently on TV, and such a good drama. They have AMAZING writers that keep coming up with these story lines that just pull you in.
17. The Mole - Easily one of the best reality shows EVER. They kept trying to bring it back, and it never did stellar in the ratings, but let me tell you... the show was AWESOME!
18. Love Boat - As everyone knows, I love being on a cruise. I believe this show is part of the reasons. Just call me Julie McCoy.
19. Small Wonder - I always wanted a talking robot.
20. The Real World - I am definitely partial to season 9 (New Orleans). This was the first of the reality shows, and it was always a favorite. It is too bad the show has turned to such trash... I have not watched in several years.
There you have it. Alright, lay it on me... which shows did I forget?
Check back often for more Random Ramblings!
Thursday, April 1, 2010
A Ramble Just For You
It has been almost a week since my last post, and I am still at a loss for what to write. Yes, once again, I am having writers block. So, for all of my loyal readers who expect me to keep writing, I expect you to offer some blog topics. Please do so by leaving a comment below. In the mean time... here are my random thoughts for now...
- I love my job, but sometimes it is so sad. Three tenants died this week.
- I still think about becoming certified as an EMT. Not to be one professionally, but I have always wanted to have the skills.
- Chad got a new car and now I want one... I am only a year and a half into my six-year car loan.
- My next cruise is still SO far away.
- I am already EXTREMELY sick of Passover... bring on the pizza, pasta, bagels, and other delicious carbohydrate delights.
- This months is CRAZY!!!! (See previous blog post)
- I am both excited, and nervous about getting my tattoo.
- My tattoo artists nickname is Poohki.
- Charley does not get his stitches out for another week, and I am scared his fur is going to grow in over them.
- I love summer and cannot wait to wear flip-flops.
- My sister-in-law (an avid blog reader) is naughty in an awesome way!!
- I despise when people screw you over... NEVER cross me!!
- I love April Fools and yet I am not creative enough, nor motivated enough to pull off a good one.
- This has been totally uninteresting for you to read (I assume), so I will be done.
Check back often for more Random Ramblings!
- I love my job, but sometimes it is so sad. Three tenants died this week.
- I still think about becoming certified as an EMT. Not to be one professionally, but I have always wanted to have the skills.
- Chad got a new car and now I want one... I am only a year and a half into my six-year car loan.
- My next cruise is still SO far away.
- I am already EXTREMELY sick of Passover... bring on the pizza, pasta, bagels, and other delicious carbohydrate delights.
- This months is CRAZY!!!! (See previous blog post)
- I am both excited, and nervous about getting my tattoo.
- My tattoo artists nickname is Poohki.
- Charley does not get his stitches out for another week, and I am scared his fur is going to grow in over them.
- I love summer and cannot wait to wear flip-flops.
- My sister-in-law (an avid blog reader) is naughty in an awesome way!!
- I despise when people screw you over... NEVER cross me!!
- I love April Fools and yet I am not creative enough, nor motivated enough to pull off a good one.
- This has been totally uninteresting for you to read (I assume), so I will be done.
Check back often for more Random Ramblings!
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