I've been in a bit of a blogging funk lately...just not much to say. But, the last couple of weeks have been pretty active in terms of my social life. I know..."B has a social life?"
More Coming Out:
Went to a going away happy hour for someone I worked with in student leadership for several years on the state level who resigned from his staff position. It turned into a long night that included my coming out to him, another staff member and a couple of alumni. The other staff person was actually on student gov't with me at my school and said she figured it all along. I'm finding it tends to slip when I have been drinking and start to vent about the various frustrations in my life.
Evening Out:
Went to the birthday dinner for the student worker in my former office Saturday night. Afterwords, I went and had coffee with one of the guys I have been chatting with online---I joined a couple of websites in an attempt to meet some guys in my area. He was a nice guy and I think there might be a possible friendship there.
Lunch:
Had lunch yesterday with another guy I have been communicating with over the same website. He too, was a nice, genuine guy and we had decent conversation. He did say he was open to hanging out again and I hope we can. I think the ball is in my court. Seemed like he was into being friends, and mentioned wanting to meet some of my friends, which I guess is a positive sign.
The "Date" Debate:
There has been some back and forth among other friends and I about whether meeting these guys constituted "first dates," particularly the meal with guy number two. I prefer to think of them as casual meetings of potential friends, since nothing more than a friendship is asked or expected. None of the parties involved are looking on this website expecting to find a romantic connection.
Readers: What do you think? Am I dating?
Showing posts with label Friends. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Friends. Show all posts
Friday, October 31, 2008
Thursday, October 2, 2008
A Sad Reality Hits Home
This afternoon, a blogger friend of mine with whom I have become very close IMed me to tell me he had a story about an "incident" last night involving his two best friends. He said he'd fill me in later, when he was home and not messaging from his cell phone. Being that we talk daily, and often about these guys, who we refer to as The Twins, I thought I knew what to expect---The Twins sound like wonderful kids who've gotten themselves in some pretty interesting situations.
I was not prepared for what I heard. I was told that last night they arrived home from an evening out with Twin B's parents to discover their home and new vehicles had been vandalized...windows broken, tires slashed, and slurs scrawled in several places.
And that was not the worst of it. The neighborhood punks responsible for the vandalism were still around and attacked the two. They will recover, but both sustained injuries ranging from bruised ribs to a broken leg.
As my friend shared this with me, my heart sank. Until tonight, gay bashing was something I'd only seen on the news or in television shows. I've always known it was real, but it hadn't happened to anyone I knew--or if it had, I didn't know about it.
It hit me like a ton of bricks. It sickens me that these two people would be attacked on their own property, in a neighborhood where Twin B grew up, simply because they are a gay couple. It sounds like an episode of QAF, but it's not, it's reality.
And that's pretty damn fucked up.
I was not prepared for what I heard. I was told that last night they arrived home from an evening out with Twin B's parents to discover their home and new vehicles had been vandalized...windows broken, tires slashed, and slurs scrawled in several places.
And that was not the worst of it. The neighborhood punks responsible for the vandalism were still around and attacked the two. They will recover, but both sustained injuries ranging from bruised ribs to a broken leg.
As my friend shared this with me, my heart sank. Until tonight, gay bashing was something I'd only seen on the news or in television shows. I've always known it was real, but it hadn't happened to anyone I knew--or if it had, I didn't know about it.
It hit me like a ton of bricks. It sickens me that these two people would be attacked on their own property, in a neighborhood where Twin B grew up, simply because they are a gay couple. It sounds like an episode of QAF, but it's not, it's reality.
And that's pretty damn fucked up.
Monday, August 25, 2008
Long Overdue
I had dinner with Country Girl and Fly Boy on Saturday night. It was, as the title suggests, long overdue. I had not seen either of them since my "coming out dinner" in November, and by coincidence, we chose the same restaurant.
We had a nice visit and they are both doing well. Fly Boy will be moving out of the area soon, and it will be interesting to see how Country Girl takes it. She got very emotional when it was time to part ways after dinner, even though she knows she'll see him again before he leaves, and I should as well, as I told him I would make good on my November promise to go to the bar with him.
Also had the chance to meet her latest gay friend, a kid from her work I've been hearing about all summer. He seems like a decent guy. We were all joking about how she seems to attract us, and we really don't know why.
It was a nice evening and great to catch up.
Now I need to make a point to see MBA Man, as I have not seen him since mid-February.
We had a nice visit and they are both doing well. Fly Boy will be moving out of the area soon, and it will be interesting to see how Country Girl takes it. She got very emotional when it was time to part ways after dinner, even though she knows she'll see him again before he leaves, and I should as well, as I told him I would make good on my November promise to go to the bar with him.
Also had the chance to meet her latest gay friend, a kid from her work I've been hearing about all summer. He seems like a decent guy. We were all joking about how she seems to attract us, and we really don't know why.
It was a nice evening and great to catch up.
Now I need to make a point to see MBA Man, as I have not seen him since mid-February.
Thursday, August 7, 2008
August Already?
I can't believe we are into August already. This summer has flown by so fast even though I feel like I have gotten nothing done.
Some random items...
Went up to my alma mater for a day last week. It was like being "home" and was a nice visit even though I started to feel sick about halfway through the day. Some 24 hour bug. Icky.
I'm still looking for a job, which pretty much sucks. Anyone out there who's looking knows the market is soft and I'm really unsure at this point what is going to happen. It's frustrating and somewhat depressing.
My friends are fine. Country Girl has been really into the whole "ally" thing in recent months, which is cool...but sometimes that's all she seems to want to discuss. She was rather up in arms recently over Fly Boy, who decided he was moving to three different places in three weeks. He finally settled on Hawaii to be with an ex...not sure about that one, but to each his own choices.
Daisy Duke and Apple Guy will both be living in our metro area this fall....she's doing something with marketing research and he nonprofit work. I have not seen either in several months and hope to now that we're near each other again.
MBA Man has adjusted to life "in the sticks" as he calls it....except for the lack of eligible bachelors.
I guess that's all for now...
Some random items...
Went up to my alma mater for a day last week. It was like being "home" and was a nice visit even though I started to feel sick about halfway through the day. Some 24 hour bug. Icky.
I'm still looking for a job, which pretty much sucks. Anyone out there who's looking knows the market is soft and I'm really unsure at this point what is going to happen. It's frustrating and somewhat depressing.
My friends are fine. Country Girl has been really into the whole "ally" thing in recent months, which is cool...but sometimes that's all she seems to want to discuss. She was rather up in arms recently over Fly Boy, who decided he was moving to three different places in three weeks. He finally settled on Hawaii to be with an ex...not sure about that one, but to each his own choices.
Daisy Duke and Apple Guy will both be living in our metro area this fall....she's doing something with marketing research and he nonprofit work. I have not seen either in several months and hope to now that we're near each other again.
MBA Man has adjusted to life "in the sticks" as he calls it....except for the lack of eligible bachelors.
I guess that's all for now...
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
"Hag" Drama
Country Girl has decided to take on a new crusade as a gay rights activist.
Great.
She wants to write a book about homosexuality.
Great.
She has joined the local chapter of PFLAG.
Great.
We (MBA Man, Fly Boy, me and the rest) support her in her endeavors and value her as a friend and ally. However, it seems like every conversation I have with her now turns to homosexuality. She has taken her interest in and concern for us to a level where it seems she's losing sight of who we are aside from being gay.
I love her, we all do, but we're tired.
How does one tell a dear friend when enough is enough?
Great.
She wants to write a book about homosexuality.
Great.
She has joined the local chapter of PFLAG.
Great.
We (MBA Man, Fly Boy, me and the rest) support her in her endeavors and value her as a friend and ally. However, it seems like every conversation I have with her now turns to homosexuality. She has taken her interest in and concern for us to a level where it seems she's losing sight of who we are aside from being gay.
I love her, we all do, but we're tired.
How does one tell a dear friend when enough is enough?
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
Spring Break
Or lack thereof. Welcome to the real world, even when you work at a school.
But...best wishes to K, Troy, and the whole CA blogger crew for a wonderful time together!
But...best wishes to K, Troy, and the whole CA blogger crew for a wonderful time together!
Monday, February 18, 2008
Weekend With Troystopher and Midwest Ben
This weekend I had the great pleasure of spending time with Troy and Ben as they visited Minneapolis for a couple of days. We had a very nice weekend together and I am confident we'll be good friends for a long time to come.
Saturday:
I met Troy at his hotel about 2 pm and we had a late lunch in one of the restaurants. We had nice conversation about such things as blogging, work, the Blogger Summit, and the fact his ears refused to pop (poor kid!).
Ben arrived and they went to dinner. While they were there, I had drinks in the hotel with family friend R, whom I have mentioned before on the blog. She had been wanting to get together to celebrate my new job, so I figured it was the perfect time. We talked about many things, including her recent change of majors, and...dating:
Me: I'm not really on the market right now.
R: What if a super hot girl came along?
Me: Umm...well...there won't ever be a hot girl for me.
R: How come?
Me: Well, I'm gay
R: Really? You're kidding!
Me: Nope
We then the standard coming out conversation that consists of "How long have you known? Have you had any relationships?" etc. She was very supportive, and when I asked if I'd freaked her out at all, she said "I used to be a fashion design major, I have tons of gay guy friends!"
Of course I asked her not to say anything to her family, since it would get back to my parents and my dad doesn't know yet, nor am I prepared for him to.
After the guys had finished dinner and R and I parted ways, we headed to a dessert bar and I had some very good cheescake before we proceeded to the local Comedy Sportz to see some improv. I had never been before, and it was pretty good...except for the fact the red team won and the three of us thought the blue team was better.
By that time we were exhausted and retired for the evening.
Sunday:
We got up late and decided to head to the Hard Rock for lunch. Man, the portions were HUGE. I think our eyes were bigger than our stomachs, as we each finished about half our meals.
Then we went to the local GameWorks that was in the same complex. It was pretty funny, I had not been to an arcade in years! We did a bunch of games, mostly driving/racing and several rounds of "Deal or No Deal." Troy tried the infamous DDR, which was pretty funny to watch...said it was a good workout.
After GameWorks, it was off to the alumni bowling event that was being hosted by the student association I worked with in college. It was fun... in a kind of funky old bowling alley that is a bit of a Mpls landmark. I had to dodge the "how do you know these guys?" question a few times, but oh well. Troy is certainly the best bowler...I forget Ben's score but I'm pretty sure I got a paltry 45, maybe it was 42. Didn't get many high fives for spares or strikes, that's for sure!
After bowling we returned to the hotel and had a drink and a snack to close out our weekend. Ben headed back to school and I crashed there to avoid the hassle of having to turn around and come back into the city this morning--worked out well, as I was able to say goodbye and hop a cab to the office the same time Troy grabbed the airport shuttle.
It was such a nice time...a great experience to be able to see that we all are in fact who we appear to be. Feels good to have seen two of the guys who have become good friends of mine through this blog in recent months and for all of us to welcome each other into our "real lives." As anyone who has met them or reads their blogs knows, these are two really fantastic guys.
So, Troystopher and Ben, thank you for a wonderful weekend! I love you guys and look forward to the next time we meet. You both rock!!
(see Troy's post for more)
Saturday:
I met Troy at his hotel about 2 pm and we had a late lunch in one of the restaurants. We had nice conversation about such things as blogging, work, the Blogger Summit, and the fact his ears refused to pop (poor kid!).
Ben arrived and they went to dinner. While they were there, I had drinks in the hotel with family friend R, whom I have mentioned before on the blog. She had been wanting to get together to celebrate my new job, so I figured it was the perfect time. We talked about many things, including her recent change of majors, and...dating:
Me: I'm not really on the market right now.
R: What if a super hot girl came along?
Me: Umm...well...there won't ever be a hot girl for me.
R: How come?
Me: Well, I'm gay
R: Really? You're kidding!
Me: Nope
We then the standard coming out conversation that consists of "How long have you known? Have you had any relationships?" etc. She was very supportive, and when I asked if I'd freaked her out at all, she said "I used to be a fashion design major, I have tons of gay guy friends!"
Of course I asked her not to say anything to her family, since it would get back to my parents and my dad doesn't know yet, nor am I prepared for him to.
After the guys had finished dinner and R and I parted ways, we headed to a dessert bar and I had some very good cheescake before we proceeded to the local Comedy Sportz to see some improv. I had never been before, and it was pretty good...except for the fact the red team won and the three of us thought the blue team was better.
By that time we were exhausted and retired for the evening.
Sunday:
We got up late and decided to head to the Hard Rock for lunch. Man, the portions were HUGE. I think our eyes were bigger than our stomachs, as we each finished about half our meals.
Then we went to the local GameWorks that was in the same complex. It was pretty funny, I had not been to an arcade in years! We did a bunch of games, mostly driving/racing and several rounds of "Deal or No Deal." Troy tried the infamous DDR, which was pretty funny to watch...said it was a good workout.
After GameWorks, it was off to the alumni bowling event that was being hosted by the student association I worked with in college. It was fun... in a kind of funky old bowling alley that is a bit of a Mpls landmark. I had to dodge the "how do you know these guys?" question a few times, but oh well. Troy is certainly the best bowler...I forget Ben's score but I'm pretty sure I got a paltry 45, maybe it was 42. Didn't get many high fives for spares or strikes, that's for sure!
After bowling we returned to the hotel and had a drink and a snack to close out our weekend. Ben headed back to school and I crashed there to avoid the hassle of having to turn around and come back into the city this morning--worked out well, as I was able to say goodbye and hop a cab to the office the same time Troy grabbed the airport shuttle.
It was such a nice time...a great experience to be able to see that we all are in fact who we appear to be. Feels good to have seen two of the guys who have become good friends of mine through this blog in recent months and for all of us to welcome each other into our "real lives." As anyone who has met them or reads their blogs knows, these are two really fantastic guys.
So, Troystopher and Ben, thank you for a wonderful weekend! I love you guys and look forward to the next time we meet. You both rock!!
(see Troy's post for more)
Thursday, February 7, 2008
New Blog--Check Him Out
I have to give props to a very special new blog. MBA Man has made the leap from LiveJournal to Blogger. Check out his new place on the web:
A Day in the Life Of
A Day in the Life Of
Saturday, January 26, 2008
Catching Up With MBA Man
Had dinner with MBA Man last night. He told me vacation stories and we talked about life. It was nice. It occurred to me it was the first time we had gotten together one on one in over three years. I guess that is the way of things when friends are in relationships. Times change.
It is interesting how our dynamic has changed over the last several months since I came out to him. Some of our conversation topics are the same, but others are very different. There is an added comfort now to address topics neither of us would have touched before. I think it is the change that comes with knowing you are both playing for the same "team." I trust him and he trusts me--I believe there is very little left that we keep from one another. There are still moments when I think "I can't believe what he just told me." But, I'm glad he does--and I'm glad I can be just as open and honest with him.
Everyone should have a friend like that.
It is interesting how our dynamic has changed over the last several months since I came out to him. Some of our conversation topics are the same, but others are very different. There is an added comfort now to address topics neither of us would have touched before. I think it is the change that comes with knowing you are both playing for the same "team." I trust him and he trusts me--I believe there is very little left that we keep from one another. There are still moments when I think "I can't believe what he just told me." But, I'm glad he does--and I'm glad I can be just as open and honest with him.
Everyone should have a friend like that.
Monday, January 21, 2008
Props...
Major props to friend and fellow blogger Troystopher, who was profiled this morning on Best Gay Blogs. Check out the article:
BGB-Troy Christopher: Invitation Only
Congrats on the notoriety buddy!
BGB-Troy Christopher: Invitation Only
Congrats on the notoriety buddy!
Sunday, January 20, 2008
Brrrr!
It has been below zero here most of the weekend.
And you all (you know who you are) think the 40s and 50s are cold? Send some to MN will ya?
As if that was not bad enough, MBA Man sent an email to everyone yesterday with photos and a description of the Mid-80s in Cancun.
A warm weather vacation would be great right about now.
And you all (you know who you are) think the 40s and 50s are cold? Send some to MN will ya?
As if that was not bad enough, MBA Man sent an email to everyone yesterday with photos and a description of the Mid-80s in Cancun.
A warm weather vacation would be great right about now.
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
A Variety of Shout Outs
To My Readers:
Have I mentioned lately how much I love you all? The connections and friendships made through this blog are absolutely incredible and invaluable to me.
Oh, and just so you know, even if I may be a latecomer with my comments sometimes it does not mean I am behind in reading...I have a routine whereby I flag everything I want to comment on in my RSS reader and go back to it later. So, while I probably read your posts every day I may not comment until several days later.
To My Buddy V. Jay:
The boy is pledging to a frat--and doing so openly. It can't be easy and takes a lot of guts. I know a couple of former fratboys who are gay but they were not out in the frat. So, go V!
To A Couple of New Bloggers:
I've had the pleasure of chatting recently with a couple of new bloggers who are out there:
Dane @ I'm Well Informed and Out
Kris @ Poetry and Stories
These guys are cool. Stop by their blogs and say hello!
And to a Blogger Returned...
Tally has returned with "You've Got a Gay" v. 2.0
Have I mentioned lately how much I love you all? The connections and friendships made through this blog are absolutely incredible and invaluable to me.
Oh, and just so you know, even if I may be a latecomer with my comments sometimes it does not mean I am behind in reading...I have a routine whereby I flag everything I want to comment on in my RSS reader and go back to it later. So, while I probably read your posts every day I may not comment until several days later.
To My Buddy V. Jay:
The boy is pledging to a frat--and doing so openly. It can't be easy and takes a lot of guts. I know a couple of former fratboys who are gay but they were not out in the frat. So, go V!
To A Couple of New Bloggers:
I've had the pleasure of chatting recently with a couple of new bloggers who are out there:
Dane @ I'm Well Informed and Out
Kris @ Poetry and Stories
These guys are cool. Stop by their blogs and say hello!
And to a Blogger Returned...
Tally has returned with "You've Got a Gay" v. 2.0
Friday, January 11, 2008
A Conversation With Bi Boy
Last night I was up quite late on AIM, and was surprised to get a message from Bi Boy. It's been some time since I heard from him.
He procceded to tell me that he'd been out last week with someone I'd know. Of course I wondered who. He tells me the guy's name and after a second I realized he was talking about MBA Man's ex...the guy he dated before the LTR with Photo Guy. He asked what I knew about this guy, which really isn't much since I never actually met him...but I'm sure during the course of their conversation somehow the connection was made.
So, the world gets smaller. But the conversation got more interesting when he asked about my love life. I was starting to get the sense from the conversation that he might know something about me--somehow I doubt he'd have told a straight guy friend about picking up boys and "getting [his] whore on."
Then, this:
BB: hey did you and [Apple Guy]ever
BB:?
Me: ever what?
BB: that is what i am asking
Me: No...however you must know more about me than I think to have wondered about that
BB:lol
BB:you never know
Me:You can say it, I'll tell you the truth
Me: or ask it, I guess
BB: what if you say that you and [Apple Guy] did nothing i take that
BB: but i know you wanted him
BB: BAD
Me:I did not
BB:right
Me:Right....YOU wanted [Apple Guy]
BB:yes and no
Me:I will say that your radar is good....because I am
BB:you say it like i did not know
Me:how did you know? [Daisy Duke] tell you?
BB:no
BB:i just know
Anyway, it was an interesting and surprising conversation. To learn that not only is he dating one of my friends exes, but he knew about me all along...and I'm far from "obvious", so the boy's gaydar must be finely tuned.
Indeed an interesting chat to have online at 2 am.
He procceded to tell me that he'd been out last week with someone I'd know. Of course I wondered who. He tells me the guy's name and after a second I realized he was talking about MBA Man's ex...the guy he dated before the LTR with Photo Guy. He asked what I knew about this guy, which really isn't much since I never actually met him...but I'm sure during the course of their conversation somehow the connection was made.
So, the world gets smaller. But the conversation got more interesting when he asked about my love life. I was starting to get the sense from the conversation that he might know something about me--somehow I doubt he'd have told a straight guy friend about picking up boys and "getting [his] whore on."
Then, this:
BB: hey did you and [Apple Guy]ever
BB:?
Me: ever what?
BB: that is what i am asking
Me: No...however you must know more about me than I think to have wondered about that
BB:lol
BB:you never know
Me:You can say it, I'll tell you the truth
Me: or ask it, I guess
BB: what if you say that you and [Apple Guy] did nothing i take that
BB: but i know you wanted him
BB: BAD
Me:I did not
BB:right
Me:Right....YOU wanted [Apple Guy]
BB:yes and no
Me:I will say that your radar is good....because I am
BB:you say it like i did not know
Me:how did you know? [Daisy Duke] tell you?
BB:no
BB:i just know
Anyway, it was an interesting and surprising conversation. To learn that not only is he dating one of my friends exes, but he knew about me all along...and I'm far from "obvious", so the boy's gaydar must be finely tuned.
Indeed an interesting chat to have online at 2 am.
Sunday, January 6, 2008
First Days of a New Year
I realized tonight I have not blogged in several days, again. There are stretches where I just do not feel motivated to blog and this has been another of them. Oh well, I guess it is my blog and I'm allowed to set the updating pace...thanks to you who read for putting up with my sporadic-ness.
Job Search:
There is progress on this front, as I have taken the next step. My strong prospect job, which I have told a few of you about, finally posted, I heard from my contact and I applied. Now, more waiting.
Politics:
I have been following IA and NH, but so much has been said about this by others that I won't repeat it here.
Family Weekend:
My Uncle, Aunt and cousin came up for a visit this weekend. We had a nice time chatting, playing games and etc. Unfortunately, Mom has been ill...thinks she has food poisining. She was able to visit with them a bit yesterday but Dad and I did much of the "entertaining."
A Reconnection:
Remember the reason I ditched the chats? Well, one thing I never did was take AIM Boy off of either of my buddy lists. I don't know why or what possessed me to do so, but last night I IMed him just for a lark to see if he'd respond. He did and we proceeded to have a lengthy conversation about a lot of things. I am not sure what if anything will come of it but we both seem to have an interest in rekindling a friendship.
MBA Man Meets a Blogger:
A while back when I told MBA Man about this blog, I also told him a little bit about a few of my blog friends. Well, he's been in Chicago this weekend for work and this morning had brunch with Troystopher. (I had given them each other's emails and etc.) While I'm just a smidge jealous that MBA Man met my blogger buddy before me, I have to say I think it's kind of cool that connection could be made as a result of my blog.
Shout out...
To a new blog I like: Coming to Terms With "IT"
There you have it, folks. My life in a nutshell for the first few days of 2008!
Job Search:
There is progress on this front, as I have taken the next step. My strong prospect job, which I have told a few of you about, finally posted, I heard from my contact and I applied. Now, more waiting.
Politics:
I have been following IA and NH, but so much has been said about this by others that I won't repeat it here.
Family Weekend:
My Uncle, Aunt and cousin came up for a visit this weekend. We had a nice time chatting, playing games and etc. Unfortunately, Mom has been ill...thinks she has food poisining. She was able to visit with them a bit yesterday but Dad and I did much of the "entertaining."
A Reconnection:
Remember the reason I ditched the chats? Well, one thing I never did was take AIM Boy off of either of my buddy lists. I don't know why or what possessed me to do so, but last night I IMed him just for a lark to see if he'd respond. He did and we proceeded to have a lengthy conversation about a lot of things. I am not sure what if anything will come of it but we both seem to have an interest in rekindling a friendship.
MBA Man Meets a Blogger:
A while back when I told MBA Man about this blog, I also told him a little bit about a few of my blog friends. Well, he's been in Chicago this weekend for work and this morning had brunch with Troystopher. (I had given them each other's emails and etc.) While I'm just a smidge jealous that MBA Man met my blogger buddy before me, I have to say I think it's kind of cool that connection could be made as a result of my blog.
Shout out...
To a new blog I like: Coming to Terms With "IT"
There you have it, folks. My life in a nutshell for the first few days of 2008!
Wednesday, December 26, 2007
B's Christmas Weekend 2007
I had a nice, relaxing, somewhat low key Christmas weekend.
Saturday: Did my shopping while Mom went to the grocery store. Was quite aggravated by it. Note to self: Stick to the SuperTarget near home. Going to other Targets that are arranged differently is confusing.
Sunday: Helped clean and bake cookies, watched movies.
Monday: Lazy morning for me. Mom finished baking. Dad was working and so was my sister, so Mom and I went to an open house some friends were having. Dad cooked the traditional steak dinner, although the meat was poor this time...we will not be getting steaks from that grocery store for a while! Waited up for sister to get home and went to bed.
Tuesday: Was up around 10:3o and we sat and watched TV for awhile. Sister was not feeling well but we woke her up long enough to open gifts about 2 pm...probably the latest Christmas "morning" I can remember. Made the usual calls to relatives. Mom, Dad and I went to see family friends for Christmas dinner, which was a very nice time. Upon arriving back home, met Sister's new boyfriend who had come over.
What I Got:
"Bad President" page a day calendar that counts down Bush's days in office.
A new all-in-one printer/copier/scanner to replace my aging printer that sounds as if it could die any time.
A black cashmere overcoat...I had commented recently that my other winter jackets are not really appropriate to wear when I am dressed up for interviews, weddings, or whatever.
A scarf to go with the coat.
A new pair of slippers.
A deodorant/cologne gift set
Some stationery items since I enjoy sending people notes from time to time.
Some Reese's candy
All nice things that will prove useful to me.
A Merry Christmas indeed.
Saturday: Did my shopping while Mom went to the grocery store. Was quite aggravated by it. Note to self: Stick to the SuperTarget near home. Going to other Targets that are arranged differently is confusing.
Sunday: Helped clean and bake cookies, watched movies.
Monday: Lazy morning for me. Mom finished baking. Dad was working and so was my sister, so Mom and I went to an open house some friends were having. Dad cooked the traditional steak dinner, although the meat was poor this time...we will not be getting steaks from that grocery store for a while! Waited up for sister to get home and went to bed.
Tuesday: Was up around 10:3o and we sat and watched TV for awhile. Sister was not feeling well but we woke her up long enough to open gifts about 2 pm...probably the latest Christmas "morning" I can remember. Made the usual calls to relatives. Mom, Dad and I went to see family friends for Christmas dinner, which was a very nice time. Upon arriving back home, met Sister's new boyfriend who had come over.
What I Got:
"Bad President" page a day calendar that counts down Bush's days in office.
A new all-in-one printer/copier/scanner to replace my aging printer that sounds as if it could die any time.
A black cashmere overcoat...I had commented recently that my other winter jackets are not really appropriate to wear when I am dressed up for interviews, weddings, or whatever.
A scarf to go with the coat.
A new pair of slippers.
A deodorant/cologne gift set
Some stationery items since I enjoy sending people notes from time to time.
Some Reese's candy
All nice things that will prove useful to me.
A Merry Christmas indeed.
Thursday, November 29, 2007
How Goes It?
Over at Frozen Underwear, Steve is contemplating how honest to be when a friend asks you about your personal life. I'm having a similar debate with myself over how to respond to an email from The Advisor.
We've been in contact since I left school because I'm ultimately trying to enter the same profession. He's been very helpful and yesterday emailed me a posting he thought might interest me. I replied with a thank you, and in turn, he replied and asked "how goes it?"
Because he's a mentor and friend, I know that he asks out of more than courtesy...and cares on some level about what the answer is.
I have two options:
1) I could reply with the usual "Pretty good. Applied at x place. blah, blah, blah"
2) I could take a more honest and personal approach--let him know of the ups and downs of my current job search, as well as what's been going on personally--namely my decision to begin coming out, and the weekend developments. Recall that he is one of the people I never told but kind of wish I had.
Part of me is feeling like I want to fill him in, yet I know it is a big thing to talk about via email. Of course I don't visit my college town often--well I haven't been back yet, so doing it in person anytime soon isn't really an option.
Hmm. What to do.
We've been in contact since I left school because I'm ultimately trying to enter the same profession. He's been very helpful and yesterday emailed me a posting he thought might interest me. I replied with a thank you, and in turn, he replied and asked "how goes it?"
Because he's a mentor and friend, I know that he asks out of more than courtesy...and cares on some level about what the answer is.
I have two options:
1) I could reply with the usual "Pretty good. Applied at x place. blah, blah, blah"
2) I could take a more honest and personal approach--let him know of the ups and downs of my current job search, as well as what's been going on personally--namely my decision to begin coming out, and the weekend developments. Recall that he is one of the people I never told but kind of wish I had.
Part of me is feeling like I want to fill him in, yet I know it is a big thing to talk about via email. Of course I don't visit my college town often--well I haven't been back yet, so doing it in person anytime soon isn't really an option.
Hmm. What to do.
Sunday, November 25, 2007
A Little More About Last Night
I have been thinking a lot about what happened last night, specifically with telling my mom. I had not intended on telling either parent for a while...probably not until I had moved out and was a little more stable. It would just have been easier that way, I figured...and less of a risk.
So, why do it on the spur of the moment like that?
-It shouldn't be that big of a deal-it is what it is.
-She asked point blank, and I am not a good liar.
-Despite saying she had no idea, I can't imagine she'd have brought it up had she not wondered, at least a little.
In the end, I think everything will be fine. There hasn't been any awkwardness between us in the "aftermath" and I don't think there will be.
I think the funniest part was her wondering why, if I had been gay all along, I was so surprised when MBA Man first came out. I told her that just because I'm gay doesn't mean my gaydar is any good.
I'm finding that as hard as I try to "plan" my coming outs, it just kind of happens. Maybe that's for the best, and a sign that I am becoming more comfortable with all this.
So, why do it on the spur of the moment like that?
-It shouldn't be that big of a deal-it is what it is.
-She asked point blank, and I am not a good liar.
-Despite saying she had no idea, I can't imagine she'd have brought it up had she not wondered, at least a little.
In the end, I think everything will be fine. There hasn't been any awkwardness between us in the "aftermath" and I don't think there will be.
I think the funniest part was her wondering why, if I had been gay all along, I was so surprised when MBA Man first came out. I told her that just because I'm gay doesn't mean my gaydar is any good.
I'm finding that as hard as I try to "plan" my coming outs, it just kind of happens. Maybe that's for the best, and a sign that I am becoming more comfortable with all this.
Saturday, November 24, 2007
All I Can Say: HOLY SHIT!
Tonight I had dinner with MBA Man, Country Girl, Fly Boy, and friends of MBA Man and Fly Boy. I had told MBA Man about a week ago that I was probably going to use the opportunity to come out to Country Girl.
Most of the dinner conversation was typical. We laughed and joked and partook in usual meal banter. We had a conversation about how much I hate text messenging on my phone, so the others sent a few in jest.
Toward the end of the meal, Fly Boy's friend brought up the fact that I was the only straight man at the table. I then asked why he assumed that, and when Country Girl gave me a confused look and didn't quite pick up on the "You realized what I just admitted, don't you" , I looked at her and whispered "I'm not straight" which was followed by a shocked look from her.
At that point all the guys at the table decided it was time for another drink and headed down to another restaurant in the mall. I talked to CG for a few more minutes and basically explained the short version of how I had gotten to this point. I asked her to stay mum on the subject but did say she could talk to her mom about it.
So we went down to the other restaurant and had a couple more drinks. The guys teased me a bit about being "one of them now". CG was pretty quiet...I think she was trying to let it sink in, but she has assured me she's OK with it. We all hugged as we were leaving, and Fly Boy made me promise to go out with them afterwards next time...they all headed to the bars but I could not since Mom was shopping in the mall and had done so in order to be my ride home after my dinner.
I expected that to be the end of my coming out for the night...
In the car, Mom and I had a conversation. It went something like this:
Mom: So who was at Dinner?
Me: MBA Man, Country Girl, Fly Boy, MBA Man's Coworker, Fly Boy's Coworker
Mom: So how is everyone?
Me: (Fill her in)
Mom: So does Fly Boy's Coworker date girls or guys? (He was new to the group)
Me: He's gay
Mom: Oh. A lot of your friends seem to be. Is Country Girl?
Me: No, she's interested in a guy at work.
Mom: Are YOU gay?
At this point I there was a pause while I decided whether to lie or not...
Me: Am I GAY? Are you seriously asking me that? Why on earth would you ask me that?
Mom: Well are you?
Me: What do you think?
Mom: Probably not.
Me: If you really want an answer, I will give one. You're wrong. The answer is yes.
Mom: Yes what?
Me: Yes, I'm gay.
Basically I spent the rest of our short ride home trying to explain how long I'd known and asking if she'd ever had any inkling. She really didn't...but we were both very matter of fact. I told her I understood if she didn't agree, but that it is what it is.
All in all, she seemed very understanding. I asked that she not say anything to Dad for now, because he may not take it so well, and I am living under their roof after all.
It was TOTALLY unplanned and I'm kinda freaked that I actually did it. I mean, holy frickin shit I am out to my mother!
Definitely a night I will not soon forget.
Most of the dinner conversation was typical. We laughed and joked and partook in usual meal banter. We had a conversation about how much I hate text messenging on my phone, so the others sent a few in jest.
Toward the end of the meal, Fly Boy's friend brought up the fact that I was the only straight man at the table. I then asked why he assumed that, and when Country Girl gave me a confused look and didn't quite pick up on the "You realized what I just admitted, don't you" , I looked at her and whispered "I'm not straight" which was followed by a shocked look from her.
At that point all the guys at the table decided it was time for another drink and headed down to another restaurant in the mall. I talked to CG for a few more minutes and basically explained the short version of how I had gotten to this point. I asked her to stay mum on the subject but did say she could talk to her mom about it.
So we went down to the other restaurant and had a couple more drinks. The guys teased me a bit about being "one of them now". CG was pretty quiet...I think she was trying to let it sink in, but she has assured me she's OK with it. We all hugged as we were leaving, and Fly Boy made me promise to go out with them afterwards next time...they all headed to the bars but I could not since Mom was shopping in the mall and had done so in order to be my ride home after my dinner.
I expected that to be the end of my coming out for the night...
In the car, Mom and I had a conversation. It went something like this:
Mom: So who was at Dinner?
Me: MBA Man, Country Girl, Fly Boy, MBA Man's Coworker, Fly Boy's Coworker
Mom: So how is everyone?
Me: (Fill her in)
Mom: So does Fly Boy's Coworker date girls or guys? (He was new to the group)
Me: He's gay
Mom: Oh. A lot of your friends seem to be. Is Country Girl?
Me: No, she's interested in a guy at work.
Mom: Are YOU gay?
At this point I there was a pause while I decided whether to lie or not...
Me: Am I GAY? Are you seriously asking me that? Why on earth would you ask me that?
Mom: Well are you?
Me: What do you think?
Mom: Probably not.
Me: If you really want an answer, I will give one. You're wrong. The answer is yes.
Mom: Yes what?
Me: Yes, I'm gay.
Basically I spent the rest of our short ride home trying to explain how long I'd known and asking if she'd ever had any inkling. She really didn't...but we were both very matter of fact. I told her I understood if she didn't agree, but that it is what it is.
All in all, she seemed very understanding. I asked that she not say anything to Dad for now, because he may not take it so well, and I am living under their roof after all.
It was TOTALLY unplanned and I'm kinda freaked that I actually did it. I mean, holy frickin shit I am out to my mother!
Definitely a night I will not soon forget.
Sunday, November 18, 2007
Responding to Reader Comments
Thanks to all who commented on my recent posts.
With regard to blogging about the Haloscan mistake:
I know it is possible they could click here, see that and put two and two together. I thought about taking it down, but decided against it. If they know, they know. They aren't folks I see regularly so there is not the awkwardness and paranoia you might expect.
With regard to friends breaking up:
I have been told they are still being civil to one another, which is good. When I talked to MBA Man the other day he assured me he was doing OK. I know he is quite a positive and resilient guy, so he'll land on his feet. And Joe is correct that life in general is a fragile thing.
Why I post a lot about Student Government:
Joe also mentioned that he might have been under the impression I was still a student because of my many SG references. I do indeed talk a lot about my past as a student leader on this blog, and on my other one. As I'm sure folks like Joe and V.Jay can also attest, as a college student in SG, it becomes a HUGE part of your life...as it was in mine from September of 02 when I entered my university until this May when I graduated. I met most of my close friends in SG, such as Country Girl, MBA Man, Apple Guy and Daisy Duke. And I'm still connected to a point through the state association's attempts to organize alumni. So, even though I have graduated the references continue.
With regard to blogging about the Haloscan mistake:
I know it is possible they could click here, see that and put two and two together. I thought about taking it down, but decided against it. If they know, they know. They aren't folks I see regularly so there is not the awkwardness and paranoia you might expect.
With regard to friends breaking up:
I have been told they are still being civil to one another, which is good. When I talked to MBA Man the other day he assured me he was doing OK. I know he is quite a positive and resilient guy, so he'll land on his feet. And Joe is correct that life in general is a fragile thing.
Why I post a lot about Student Government:
Joe also mentioned that he might have been under the impression I was still a student because of my many SG references. I do indeed talk a lot about my past as a student leader on this blog, and on my other one. As I'm sure folks like Joe and V.Jay can also attest, as a college student in SG, it becomes a HUGE part of your life...as it was in mine from September of 02 when I entered my university until this May when I graduated. I met most of my close friends in SG, such as Country Girl, MBA Man, Apple Guy and Daisy Duke. And I'm still connected to a point through the state association's attempts to organize alumni. So, even though I have graduated the references continue.
Thursday, November 15, 2007
A Sad Turn of Events
A bit of unfortunate news to report in my world.
MBA Man and Photo Guy are no longer a couple. I won't go into details here because it's not my life or my business. Suffice it to say that several weeks of ups and downs culminated in a breakup. As their friend it saddens me that it ended as it did after three years, but it must be what's best for both of them.
Relationships are fragile things, aren't they?
MBA Man and Photo Guy are no longer a couple. I won't go into details here because it's not my life or my business. Suffice it to say that several weeks of ups and downs culminated in a breakup. As their friend it saddens me that it ended as it did after three years, but it must be what's best for both of them.
Relationships are fragile things, aren't they?
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