tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-60138681023072082202024-03-14T03:12:24.134-04:00Max VosGay Male Erotic Romance AuthorAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12478374601116390008noreply@blogger.comBlogger165125truetag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6013868102307208220.post-44299725277583363402018-01-26T10:00:00.000-05:002018-01-26T10:00:50.507-05:00A Follow Up...<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> So… It’s been a week since I kind of dropped the bomb shell with that Special Blog Post. I’m happy to announce that I’ve received nothing but support. To be honest, I did expect a little push back, but no, there was none. Thank you one and all for that. I’m not so sure how I would have handled that.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> As I stated, there are so many readers who are wonderful people and quite of few of whom I call friends. It does seem unfair that I withdrew myself from them, but I really did need to take some time for me. Betrayal is a horrible thing and that’s how I felt. Completely betrayed.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Last year I took an unofficial type poll and asked about betrayal. It was in the form of a multiple choice. What surprised me was 99% of those who answered immediately went to the form of cheating on a spouse, lover or partner. That was somewhat telling if you ask me. What I was really hoping to see a little more of was the betrayal of friendship which was the purpose of the poll. I only got one response that mentioned that one. I found that a little unsettling.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> For me personally, I think I could handle and get over a partner cheating on me sexually more so than a betrayal of a friendship. Hell, I’ve dealt with the sexual cheating thing, and yes, while I made him pay dearly through the nose, I got over it. And yes, I did enjoy torturing his butt.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I don’t know… there is just something that really digs deep inside me, really hurts my soul when there is a friend that I trust, confide in, open myself up to who treats that trust so casually. Or in one particular case totally trashed it and then hoped I’d forgive her. Had that been the first time, I might have done that. The last time was worse, so much more worse that I cut that person out of my life totally. I don’t want that type of person close to me. It’s just not worth it in the long run.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Remember, there are at least two sides to every story. I was so surprised when I got the cold shoulder or completely ignored afterwards by people in the M/M community. Now, just so you know, there were only two people who I told about this break. To me, that’s something that is nobody else’s business. Obviously the other party didn’t think so. It felt like highschool all over again. I’m still not going to go into it. It hurt. It hurt a lot, but life goes on.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> <b><span style="color: orange;">Stepping back…</span></b></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I have to admit, stepping away from all social media did me a world of good. There was no drama, no bad things glaring at me, no politics and no badly behaving authors. If there some big blow up going on, I was blissfully unaware. Did I suffer from withdrawal? Nope. Not one little bit.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Since last week I did sneak on and just have a wee look around. What I saw made me want to run away. There is was. Rants, politics, hate, angst and all the things that make me want to recede back into my hermit shell. What is one to do? How do you avoid all this stuff? Sadly, you can’t. I have yet to figure out how to return to social media without seeing all the stuff I don’t want to see. I am still undecided whether I want to jump back in. I guess time will tell.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: orange; font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"><b> Other stuff…</b></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> We had record temperature lows last week. I’m talking 27F degrees! I was freezing my butt off. My poor feet suffered the worst. I didn’t think they would ever thaw out. Unfortunately they weren’t the only casualties. Many of my poor tropical plants didn’t survive. I was so heartbroken when I saw all the brown leaves or my ornamental ginger lying on the ground, withered beyond recognition. I am hoping that I can trim some things back and they might come back. All I can do is try. Thankfully, the weather has improved and we are back to a more normal climate.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I have this little space heater that I keep around just for my feet. The dogs and I fought over who was going to be closer. It seems they didn’t much care for that cold-ass weather either. Today, they are all outside sunning themselves out on the deck. I keep asking them if they need sunscreen. Damn dogs… they never answer. I might as well have been talking to the wind.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: orange; font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"><b> The big stuff…</b></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Over the past few years I’ve been collecting stuff for a new kitchen: cabinets, handles, tile and other stuff. Did you know it’s expensive to redo a kitchen? If not, let me tell you, it is! But finally, I got the project started. I wasn’t able to do any of the work myself, which was the intention. However, I was able to find a good handyman who was able to get the job done. It has been long and tedious, a lot of dust, a lot of sandwiches, but finally, there is light at the end of the tunnel. Only a few more things and it will be completely done!</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> When this project is completely finished, I’m going to do some serious cooking. A friend’s birthday is coming up so I think I may just have to have a little party. Can’t decide on all I want to cook, but that’s half the fun of it if you ask me. I am seriously considering throwing down a good ol’ fashioned BBQ. What’cha think?</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Around the first of the month I was able to order a case of snacks for one of my LGBT youth centers through Smile.Amazon.com. It was only $26.00, so what the hell, right? It will help with those afterschool munchies I’m sure. What have you done recently to earn some of those good Karma coins?</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Y’all have a great week,</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Max
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"><br /></span></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12478374601116390008noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6013868102307208220.post-39139029484017932362018-01-15T11:11:00.000-05:002018-01-15T11:11:35.360-05:00An Explanation<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> <span style="color: orange;">So… I guess I owe everyone an explanation as to why I disappeared for a while.</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 19px;"> There has been a lot going on in my life, some good and some not so good. The hurricane really did more damage that I’d initially thought, so I had to deal with all of that. I was without power for 11 days, and it was hotter than hell. Talk about grumpy.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 19px;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 19px;"> Then I’ve had some pretty significant health issues. I think things are going fairly well on that front for now, but having to work at it.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 19px;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 19px;"> I guess the big thing is I’m just tired of all the hate within the M/M community. Most of this comes from other authors, and as much as I hate to say it, it seems, for the most part, come from female authors. I’m not quite sure why, but it seems that some authors are either threatened by male authors or just don’t like me personally. I have spoken to a few other men who are writing in this genre and there are a few who have had the same experience that I have. Perhaps it is just a combination thereof. I’m not sure. All I know is that I’m pretty sick of it.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 19px;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 19px;"> Initially I thought of listing each time I felt slighted or treated badly, but I didn’t want to come off as some whiney bitch. What I will say is that I’ve been used, misled, lied to, catfished, slandered, accused of sexual assault, called a racist, a bigot and let’s not forget anti-Semitic! For the record, I am not any of these things. Then I was lied to and stolen from by not one but two publishers. So… yeah, I’m pretty fed up with the whole business.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 19px;"> I’ve not written anything in ages. I’m talking months and months and months. Each time I’ve tried, my stomach turns into knots and I just can’t seem to do it. Hell, I’ve sat down to write this blog so many times I can’t even count how many times I’ve started. I’ve got drafts all over my desktop. I’m not even sure that this one will ever see the light of day.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 19px;"> One thing that really bothers me is how badly some readers have been treated by authors. I’ve always held readers in the highest regard, or at least I’ve tried. It should surprise no author that sales are down. Personally, I think those who shell out their hard earned cash are just as tired of authors behaving badly as I am and who can blame them? I’ve heard from several readers who won’t buy an author just because of the way they’ve acted on public forums!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 19px;"> I do feel bad for cutting myself off from readers, but honestly, I just needed a break from everything. Will I be able to write again? I can’t promise anything there. I’m not sure I have it in me.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 19px;"> Just when I thought I was ready to try and dip my toe in the water and push myself back into things, my good friend James Vanzant committed suicide. I took this pretty hard. He’d sent out a message that bothered me so I responded and got nothing back. I called the police for a wellness check but they were too late. That is something that is going to haunt me for some time to come. I can’t help but wonder if there was something I could have done. Said something, anything? Who knows? What I do know is that I miss him each and every day.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 19px;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 19px;"> I have also made a life-changing decision that I am sure will shock a lot of people and more than likely piss a lot of people off. Sorry in advance for that, but it is my life and I need to choose things that are going to be best for me. I will discuss more about this at a later date.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 19px;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 19px;"> I knew as soon at Donald Trump was elected that my health care would be in jeopardy, and sure as shit, it has come to pass. There are so many things radically wrong with our healthcare system. Two years ago I saw a doctor in Australia with NO insurance for the same price as I see one here WITH health insurance. I’m not even going to go into medications. I will say that my medications this past year was slightly over $50,000.00 and I had to pay a hefty portion of that, or will be paying I should say.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 19px;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 19px;"> I’d like to thank everyone who has supported me while I lived what seems like a dream. Never in my wildest imaginations would I have thought I’d have written a book, much less several. They were stories that I enjoyed writing and I had a wonderful time doing it. It saddens me to feel like that has been taken away from me, but things change. Life is change and I will do my best to go with the flow. Will I write again? I just don’t know. Maybe one day. IF I do, I will continue to write for me first, a proud gay man.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 19px;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 19px;"> I hope that everyone has a healthy and prosperous new year. I also hope that we can all remember those who are less fortunate than ourselves and do something kind for your fellow human beings.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 19px;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 19px;"> Finally, I would like to thank everyone who has been there for me and supported me on this wild journey. It has been a blast. I’ve been able to do things that I’d never thought I’d be able to do. I’ve made many friends along the way who I will always cherish.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 19px;"> Thank you all so much,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 19px;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: 19px;"> Max</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"><br /></span></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12478374601116390008noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6013868102307208220.post-81591378388213458712017-04-23T08:34:00.000-04:002017-04-23T08:37:23.284-04:00Moving On... <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> So… these past few weeks have been a tad stressful. I can’t believe all the support I’ve received and just how much love there is in this small community. Keep it coming y ‘all. Give it all you have and then some. I think we all need these virtual hugs.</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I’d like to say to ignore those who seem hell bent on causing all this drama, but at the same time, I think they need to be called out on their crap. I don’t know. I just had to step away for a bit before I blew my top. But anyway, it’s time to move on. I know that I am.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> <span style="color: orange;"><b>It’s a busy time…</b></span></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I have been so busy it isn’t even funny. I have a new audio book coming out that is just amazing. Greg Boudreaux (Greg Tremblay) has done The V Unit for me. I knew that he would be the only one who could pull this one off and wow has he blown it right out of the water. Simply amazing. It is so good I didn’t even recognize the story as one I wrote. It is that good. I could actually see the characters come to life in my mind.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> To celebrate the event, I had a new cover designed for the book. I have to admit, the old cover was pretty much crap and heavens knows, I sure caught crap for it. The French readers especially hated it, so… ta-da! A new masterpiece by the fabulous A.J. Corza. And here it is!</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKm8Rj8Ghvov5xFpEC5MeJpRehciyoLleDjqxtmqQmW5DWiYaVpmiO3bREQPKAKLsvyA3XY_1txQZEYIQXfQKtG35U2xoztKxRfmsDNOvx-i0c7js2jYkWf3eU1xKjyQNrJzlb-KPjO8YK/s1600/V-Unit-for-Audio-cover-front-2400-x-2400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKm8Rj8Ghvov5xFpEC5MeJpRehciyoLleDjqxtmqQmW5DWiYaVpmiO3bREQPKAKLsvyA3XY_1txQZEYIQXfQKtG35U2xoztKxRfmsDNOvx-i0c7js2jYkWf3eU1xKjyQNrJzlb-KPjO8YK/s320/V-Unit-for-Audio-cover-front-2400-x-2400.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Don’t ya just love it? I know I do. It fits the book so much better. I’ll let you know when it has been approved by ACX and up for purchase.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> On top of that great bit of news, I also have a new book coming out. It will be release on May 13th, so very soon. The cover reveal with me May 1st, something else for me to look forward to. I think it is a great story. Hope everyone will think so as well. I always tend to hold my breath before release day. It’s a wonder I ain’t dead. </span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> <span style="color: orange;"><b>What else…</b></span></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Oh, I will be doing a bit of traveling this year. I’m very excited about that. I’m looking forward to seeing old friends and making some new. I can’t wait to go back to Paris. Major book signing there on May 13th, release day. I dedicated the new book to the French readers since they were so good to me. Oh, and my absolute favorite composer lived there and is buried there. Felt natural to write a book in his and their honour.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I will spend a few days in London. Hopefully I will have a nice surprise for everyone if things go well. It’s a secret for now, but keep your fingers crossed!</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I’m so looking forward to attending Euro Pride Con in Berlin. I’ve never been to Germany, so that is exciting. Not exactly sure what to expect, but I know others who will be going so I know that I will have a good time. Hope that a lot of readers will attend. It is always nice to put a face to those who I’ve befriended online.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Then I will be at ShiMMer in Birmingham, UK. I know that will be a lot of fun. Sean Kerr and Joseph Lance Tonlet are already planning something. Bring it on boys. I am more than ready and can handle it. (famous last words.) Should be a blast.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Since I have house guests this week, I’m going to cut it short today. That and I really need more coffee.
Go out and attack the world with a fierceness. Do something for someone else. Remember, Santa is always watching!</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Have a grrreat week, y’all.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Max
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> p.s. Thank you everyone for the nice comments and support of the last two weeks.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> XOXO</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"><br /></span></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12478374601116390008noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6013868102307208220.post-76809611416950298882017-04-19T04:50:00.000-04:002017-04-19T04:50:07.439-04:00Hurt or Pissed?<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> So… today I sit and I cry. This Easter Sunday, the time of rebirth, the time of rising, I sit and I cry. I remember… I remember my Jim who lost his battle with AIDS. I remember the time… I remember…</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Because…</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Today I was so upset, so angry, so… just so persecuted. I feel so hurt and betrayed. I feel marginalized by a lesbian, a person that I fought for, a person who I was arrested for. This person told me to sit down and to shut up; a person who told me that my opinion didn’t matter and who hurt me to my very core. Me. I let this happen. It is my fault that I let this person into my inner sanctum.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I am better than this! I am stronger than this… or so I thought. It is harder to fight the fight when it comes from within I guess. I fought for all our rights, gay, lesbian and bi. I stood, I protested, I yelled and I screamed. I passed out pamphlets; I gave out condoms, I… I was there. I… thought… I felt… my voice mattered.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> And now, I’m told that within the M/M genre to sit down and shut up? I’m told that my history, my feelings, my… existence does not matter. My contribution, the love that I had for another man, my Jim, our romance, our love that lasted for seventeen years is… is immaterial… is what? Not worthy of your acceptance? That you write about gay men and make money off our lives and you have the unmitigated gall to tell me to sit down and shut up?</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> My start…</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I began writing gay fiction to supplement my income that was forced upon me because of a disability. I needed this money. I wrote because I needed to do something. Anything. I did not start writing gay romance as romance. I wrote what I know. I wrote stories that I wanted told. I wrote from my heart and the things that I’d experienced. I wrote… I wrote to keep me alive. I wrote because I needed a new purpose. I wrote because it was fun and exciting. I wrote because it gave me life. I wrote for me. I wrote my life.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> And now…</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I write for what? To be spit on from some cis heterosexual who has no clue what I’ve been through as a gay man? I write for some lesbian who I was arrested for so that she and her wife could have equal rights under the law? What cause did I give so much time to, to be treated as a lower class person, in a genre that I know so much about?</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Note: Gordon Merrick – The Lord Won’t Mind – sixteen weeks on the New York Times bestseller list in 1970. A gay romance, the first of a three part series. The M/M genre started by who? You have a degree? In what… fantasy?</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I turned my computer off. I turned my phone off. I turned… off…</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I watched ‘Milk’ with Sean Penn. I cried. I remembered all that suffering. I felt again everything that I experienced over thirty years ago. I knew what I was fighting for and this was all pre-AIDS. And then AIDS destroyed my life and ended so many lives.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I am sorry that you, Ms. Megan Derr had such a bad experience. I’m sorry that a gay men made you feel… less than… whatever. However, how dare you tell ME to sit down and shut up? How dare you tell me and countless others to be silent when it was we, those of us who gave our time, our lives, so that you could marry a person of the same sex? How dare you put men down in your obvious hatred of anyone with a penis? How dare you lump every gay man or is it men in general, into your realm of hatred?</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> In the end…</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I feel pity. I feel sorry for this poor unfortunate soul who knows so little of gay history. I feel sorry for anyone who buys into this shame, this abomination, because that is what is it. This self-gratification of sexual titillation of gay men’s lives is nothing more than voyeurism if the reader has no respect for others personal lives, the struggles, the battle that was and is still being fought just to be able to love who we love.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Execution is still the penalty for homosexuality in numerous countries. Today, in Chechnya, they are rounding up gay men and torturing them to give up the names of other gay men, meanwhile stating that there are NO gays in that country.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Meanwhile, the Kindle Alexander’s are quite okay with gays being rounded up and dumped into the Outback of Australia and let them kill each other off while THEY make money off very intimate details of their/our lives, not very realistically if I may add.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I will say this…</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Tragically, it only goes to show how much we have lagged behind. We, the gay male community and those who support us have to go to truly gain equal rights. Not gay rights, but equal and human rights to be who we are. To be able to love those who want to be able to love and not be ashamed by the simple gesture of holding hands, to sneak the quick kiss, to exchange those special glances without being bashed in the head, or in this case, the gut-wrenching forums of social media by those WE have supported, by those who we thought were standing with us. NOT standing behind us, ready to push us in front of the proverbial bus.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> In closing…</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I weep because I see how far we as a human race have come and how far we have regressed. Lives matter, no matter the race, the gender or the… ____ YOU fill in the blank. Correct me if I’m wrong: ‘Love Thy Neighbor’. We are everywhere, no matter the gender, no matter the race.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;">NOTE: I wanted to really rant and give y’all a good what-for’ but… </span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;">That’s all I’ve got… for now. I am going to be taking some time off since I have house guests coming this week and quite frankly, I just need to step back. </span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"><br /></span></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12478374601116390008noreply@blogger.com30tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6013868102307208220.post-10485075379234174752017-04-09T09:52:00.000-04:002017-04-09T09:52:33.635-04:00Let Me Piss Some People Off..<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> So… I’m sitting here as it’s about to turn midnight and I can’t sleep. There has been something gnawing at me for the better part of a week and I think I’m go to throw caution to the wind and just speak my mind. I know I’m going to piss some people off and well… tough. Suck it up buttercup.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"><b> NOTE: I have said it before and I’m going to say it again. If you want stop bullying towards LGBT kids, then gay history needs to be taught. Only when ignorance is shown to be just that, only then will it be stopped.</b></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"><b><br /></b></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> There was something said by a M/M author this week that at first, I shrugged and said, “Well, that’s nothing new.” and proceeded to go on my merry way. Mostly because I was really busy this week and didn’t give it much thought. But… it lingered there in the back of mind. And as I was lying in bed, trying to get to sleep, it just kept making me more and more angry to the point where I gave myself a headache and got up to write this.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Now then, let me be perfectly clear here: I am in no means attacking this author for making this <i>identity </i>statement. However, I would like to point out a few things to all the women, and there have been quite a few, who have said to me that they <i>identify </i>as a gay man, especially in this genre.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> They clearly have no clue as to how insulting this can be to gay men, especially those who are as long in the tooth as I am. I am going to try and temper this and be as logical and as forthcoming as I possibly can and not insult too many people, which I seem to be able to do without even trying. It seems I have that talent, or so I’ve been told.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> First off, there have been gay people for as long as well… there have been people. I am only going to give the bit of history that I can attest to, since I lived it.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Back in the sixties there was a group, founded out of San Francisco, if you can imagine that, who decided that homosexuals deserved to be treated equally and basically get homosexuality off the list of mental illnesses. They dressed in business attire and walked around carrying signs stating that they were not sick and that this was not a life style choice and blah, blah, blah. They got a little recognition but mostly they were pretty much ignored.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> They implored gay people (this was before lesbians broke off and decided they didn’t want to be lumped in with the men) to not try and shove their sexuality down people’s throats and to act like the normal moral population around them. Yeah… well, I think we all know that didn’t work.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Here come the ‘70’s and the revolution was upon the establishment. Kent State happened, Viet Nam was in full swing and young people were really tired of being told they were wrong and basically immoral. Bras were burned, Roe v Wade was judged and damn if our country wasn’t changing and fast.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Then Stonewall happened. Drag queens were on the national news, riots happening and… there you have it. It got right up in everyone’s face, drag queens, butches on bikes and the whole sordid queer community got right up in America’s face. The fight was on and let me tell you, it wasn’t pretty.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I can attest that being chased down 10th Street in Atlanta by rednecks with baseball bats wasn’t exactly on my agenda that particular Saturday night, but it was on theirs. By the way, those aluminum bats hurt just as much as those wooden ones, in case you wanted to know. Eggs, rotten veggies, stones, bricks… yep, those hurt too.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I can’t even tell you how many gay murders happened that were never reported by <i>any </i>news agency. Who cared? It was just another dirty faggot. Many gay bashings were never reported because there was just no use in it, so why bother. We learned to deal with it. We fought back when we could, but most of the time it was by cowards who ganged up on one or two gays and beat the every-loving shit out of them. For them, it was just sport.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I don’t know of a gay man alive who hasn’t at one time or another held their breath, afraid that they may have said the wrong thing, or were terrified of… being themselves. Oh there may be a few who maybe in the twenties and never had to be afraid, but chances are, those are a very few.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Back in the ‘70’s, ‘80’s and even 90’s there was a good chance of losing your job, getting kicked out of your apartment or disowned by your family if it was found out you were gay. This was a real fear and justifiably so. It happened. I saw it. I was there.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Then we had AIDS. The President of the United States refused to say the word. During his whole term, he only said the word once and that was because he was shamed into it. But he only said it that one time.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Our government turned their backs on us. Health insurers turned their backs on us and refused to cover AIDS. Families, friends turned away and those who didn’t were just afraid of us. Hairdressers started losing customers. Waiters were no longer needed. Not that they were sick, they just happened to be gay. People were terrified of catching ‘the gay disease’.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> It was the gay and lesbian community that pulled together and supported each other. That’s not to say there weren’t some good straight people who stood there with us, but they were a very small minority. I knew some fantastic nurses who tended to our sick and dying who went far beyond the call of duty. They became family and fought the fight right alongside us. But as I said, they were very few and very brave souls. They also lost a lot during those years, just by association.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> It was our own community who had fundraisers to pay for rent, food and medications. It was the gay community that educated and looked out for one another. Not the government. Not our neighbors and in many cases, not our families. It was us, our own that took on that job and quite often that was all.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I cannot begin to tell you how many friends and loved ones that I lost during those years. As many of you who know me, I don’t even send out Christmas cards because of it. (This past year I did send out a few for the first time since 1990.) That is how hard it was for me personally.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> So when a woman, who is my age or younger who says to me “I identify as a gay man,” I cringe. What I want to say is… have you ever been beaten with a bat? Have you had to sit there and hold the hand of the man you’ve loved for the past seventeen years die, drowning, his lungs full of pneumonia, for which there is no cure for and no one but you gives a whole goddamn? Have you ever attended a funeral once a week for a full year? Have you ever had to call all your friends and see if you couldn’t find a place for a young kid to live because his parents just kicked him out or left on the side of he rode because his parents found out there were gay? Have you ever been afraid twenty-four hours of the day, looking over your shoulder constantly?</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> This was a very real life for me and for many gay men. So when you want to say so casually, that you <i><b>identify </b></i>or feel like a gay man, I would really appreciate it if you would consider all the things I’ve said and think long and hard first. Does the reality of history still make you feel the same?</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I think the thing that really struck a nerve with me and what got to me the most was this one author did a semi-apology after the <i>identify </i>thing and then bragged about their book sales going up; book sales that depict gay men’s lives.. sort of. Of course this was only after they got called on the carpet for it. I felt as if someone had just spit in my face. Yeah, that hurt and pissed me off.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Now, I think that I can safely say that we, the LGBT community greatly appreciate all the support that our friends and allies give us. We truly do. Our communities are stronger and much better for it. We feel safer now than ever before… for now. (I’m still holding my breath on that one for the time being.) We thank you. I thank you from the bottom of my heart, I really, really do. But please, before you make such a broad and casual statement, think about what you’re saying and who your audience is. There is a lot more to gay men than just a rosy romance with a lot of fucking in it.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Normally, this is where I tell everyone to go and do something nice for someone else. Today, I’d think I’d like for everyone to just take a step back and do a little self-reflection. Gain a little peace, as I plan on doing.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Have a grrreat week y’all,</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Max
</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"><br /></span></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12478374601116390008noreply@blogger.com32tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6013868102307208220.post-10065710643143846262017-04-02T10:28:00.004-04:002017-04-02T10:28:25.996-04:00Let Me Explain...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH_lOmVwQL_95uSNpr3-fy_uWsD-fXB3ZpIE2gUUW3bGI2xjSqrjxnv1f2wqAKyqCC3n5E9qW685W8_vAbSnPfwnF93q7YNwjfut_TbYOlPS2CbexqXFqH9uELXBubHf7fOLppKKWTRqwz/s1600/10685284_10152668478914691_270130186_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH_lOmVwQL_95uSNpr3-fy_uWsD-fXB3ZpIE2gUUW3bGI2xjSqrjxnv1f2wqAKyqCC3n5E9qW685W8_vAbSnPfwnF93q7YNwjfut_TbYOlPS2CbexqXFqH9uELXBubHf7fOLppKKWTRqwz/s200/10685284_10152668478914691_270130186_n.jpg" width="117" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> So… I’ve not posted a blog in a few weeks. Why? Well, to be honest, I didn’t have much to say. There is so much political upheaval and discourse around that I haven’t felt like doing much of anything. That and I’ve been on a diet and that always makes me grumpier than I already am.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> <span style="color: orange;"><b>But...</b></span></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> There’s been something going on recently that makes me want pick up my biggest cast iron skillet and bonk someone over the head with it. Grrr… there are times when I’m afraid I’m going to chew my tongue off from staying quiet. This whole being nice goes against my grain. Hell, I’ve always had a hard time sticking to the rule of ‘if you can’t say nothing nice, keep your fucking mouth shut.” That really is difficult for me.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> <span style="color: orange;"><b>Let me explain…</b></span></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Thursday and Friday of this week, I asked two simple questions and asked for feedback.
The question on Thursday was:</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;">So, let's talk cheating...</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;">is cheating...</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;">a. having sex with someone other than your partner?</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;">b. going behind your best friend's back and stealing their ideas?</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;">c. copying others work?</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;">d. convincing others that your side is the only true side when having a dispute with someone else.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Wow… I wasn’t expecting such a response. The majority of you said all of the above. A lot of you delved in a bit on the first one with it being an open relationship. Some said that while D was underhanded, dirty, gaslighting (whatever that is) and just wrong, but didn’t think it was cheating. Of all the responses, only two (I think) were men. That’s a pretty overwhelming majority saying that all would be considered cheating.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Then on Friday I followed up with this question:
Okay, so yesterday I asked about cheating, that got a lot of good response, Thanks for that! Here is a follow up question.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Once that trust has been broken, can you get it back? How willing would you be to trust them again?</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Whaooo Nelly, old onto yer horses!</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Damn, when y’all git your dander up, you sure enough go for it. At this precise moment, (with only two men chiming in) 98% of you said that trust could not be regained. Wow! I think most of you jumped to the conclusion of cheating sexually on a partner.
Some of you gals are <i>harsh</i>. LOL</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> <b><span style="color: orange;">Now I’ll explain…</span></b></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Sometime ago, I had a friend, someone I considered a close friend do me dirty. Of course she doesn’t get it, or does she. Deep down, I think she does. Anyway, it was a real breach of trust, especially under the circumstances and previous conversations. It was backhanded, underhanded and even sidehanded if you ask me. Backstabbing? Maybe not quite that far… at that point, but yes before all was said and done, I’d say it was.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Now, let me also add that this wasn’t necessarily the first time either. I shared a story idea and I’ll be damned if she didn’t turn right around and write the damn thing. I let it go. I didn’t say anything. But from that point on, I didn’t share story ideas with her. For the most part, I just felt used, used on sooo many different levels. With so many of you saying that trust is a major issue for you, I don’t feel quite so bad in turning my back on this person. I actually feel even more justified.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> <span style="color: orange;"><b>What the…?</b></span></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> <i>‘Sigh’</i> This person has started making overtures to win me back over. It’s not going to happen. Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice and your ass is done. Unfortunately, I’m just too trusting a person. It has come to bite me in the ass so many times, and I never seem to learn. But once it does, I’m done.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> <b><span style="color: orange;">The funny part…</span></b></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Oh hell, you would not believe the private messages I got after that first post. Lawd have mercy… LMAO Ya gotta love people in this genre. They can be so kind and so loyal. I do love y’all. Some thought I had somehow slipped up and gotten a boyfriend who then cheated on me. Yeah… no that didn’t happen. I’m tellin’ y’all now, I’m almost virginal! I promise you that!</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Then some thought I was going to write a book about it. It wasn’t an idea at the time, but now… I’m not sure. Maybe? I had one fellow author just up and tell me not to do it! It’s be a huge mistake. I’d never recover from it! Yeah, well I was told that about doing a book about incest too. Funny that the thing was a huge success and still sales well. Anyway, now y’all know the whole story.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> <b><span style="color: orange;">Moving right along now…</span></b></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Is there anyone out there who doesn’t know I’m going to be doing a book tour? Well if you didn’t, I’ll tell you now. Hey, y’all, I’m doing a little book tour.
Upcoming Travel Schedule:</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;">London – May 5 thru 10</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;">Paris – May 11 thru 17 I will be doing a book signing on the 13th so please, come find me.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;">Venice May 18 thru 23 – Party with readers on the 20th (strippers appreciated! He he he)</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;">Me time May 23 thru June 19)</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;">Barcelona June 16 thru 19</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;">Berlin June 20 thru 25 Euro Pride Con. Hope to see a lot of y’all there!</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;">Birmingham, UK – July 1 for ShiMMer book con.
If you would like to pre-order books for any of the cities listed, please follow this link. I cannot guarantee books will be available if you don’t.</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"><a href="http://bit.ly/2mSFR3o" target="_blank">Book Preorder Form</a></span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> So there ya go. If you want to find me in any of these fine cities, just let me know and we’ll do a little get together. Y’all know I’m always up for a cup of coffee.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> That’s about all I got for now. Go be happy. Make someone else happy. Have sex. Have a grrreat week, y’all,</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Max
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"><br /></span></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12478374601116390008noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6013868102307208220.post-75967576680535952682017-03-06T08:19:00.000-05:002017-03-06T08:19:26.778-05:00Where in the World is Max?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHJgWJ23rGBKQNwFaLhjokRrWIESOXoKWFjpzUgzBDXxlgVjIThyM98eVxhIBgjGmP5iHs1UQfP9DinVq6nFgrVU2EUzQB9f-O2VH_A70nMDlbxklNJy8GSB0gu68bI2eaSS_GYRyzhdVV/s1600/16708225_292670711147498_567085093201671000_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="190" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHJgWJ23rGBKQNwFaLhjokRrWIESOXoKWFjpzUgzBDXxlgVjIThyM98eVxhIBgjGmP5iHs1UQfP9DinVq6nFgrVU2EUzQB9f-O2VH_A70nMDlbxklNJy8GSB0gu68bI2eaSS_GYRyzhdVV/s200/16708225_292670711147498_567085093201671000_n.jpg" width="200" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> So… here I am… sitting… having coffee. I need to be trying to write a blurb, but my head just ain’t in it. I was just reminded that I needed to do a blurb about what I’ll be doing this year… as in where will I be. Also, you will note the fantasy fairy tale images. There's a reason... be patient!</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Coffee…Coffee…COFFEE!</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Yes, as most of you know I do love my coffee in the morning. Some have asked if I drink too much. Not anymore, or not as much as I used to. I used to easily drink anywhere from 20-24 cups a day. I was also working full time and my days were usually around 10-14 hours a day. To me, that was what got me through it.</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Now… after three heart attacks, I’ve cut back. Waaaay, back. I now only do 3-4 cups a day and I try to not have any past nine in the morning. Pretty drastic, huh? So for those who think I drink too much coffee… give me a break. As you can see, I have cut back, so nah!</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Oh… back to the main topic…</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Where will I be in 2017? Well… I’m about to tell ya. I’m happy to announce that I will be returning to Europe this year. I was supposed to have gone last year, but sometimes there are things beyond our control that happen, and that was the case last year. It sucked, but I’m going to make sure that I make up for it this year.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> So… here is the schedule:</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> London May 7 – 10 As of yet, I have no real plans other than some sightseeing. If anyone wants to get together, just let me know. I hope to catch up with some old friends while there.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Paris May 11 – 17 Book signing and release party for new book May 13. I hope to see some of my favorite people there. I can’t wait to face-plant into a plate of éclairs!</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Venice May 18 – 23 I get to spend my birthday in Venice! How cool is that. Can’t wait to meet some of my Italian readers! Anyone know of a good stripper in Venice? He he he</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Hmm, from the 23rd until June 19 I’m going to have a little me time. Yeah, I’m going to spoil myself a bit. But everyone needs a vacation.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Barcelona June 16 – 19 Anyone in Barcelona?</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Berlin June 20 – 25 Euro Pride Con! Going to be there for this event and looking forward to it. I’ll have books there for anyone who might want one. This is one event that I’m really looking forward to.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Tampa July 6 – 9 Rainbow Con. Looking forward to seeing readers and authors. So many great authors from the Florida area. Hope to see many readers.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> There, that’s all I have pertaining to travel and where I'll be. No, I will not be attending GRL. So please, don’t ask.</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> While I’m at it…</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I’m really looking forward to Euro Pride Con in Berlin this year. I’ve always wanted to visit Berlin. Never thought I’d get the chance, but here I am… I’m going. Are you?</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I’ve heard so many great things about this book conference. I just checked the attendee’s list and I was amazed at how diverse it seems. There are people from all over Europe going. Hell, there are people from all over the WORLD going! How cool is that?</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Think about it… people from around the globe will be meeting together just because they like reading about men having sex. Okay… it isn’t just about them having sex, but they do like to read gay male books, which is something I’d never thought I’d see. I mean it wasn’t even close to a thought, it was so remote.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I also like that it isn’t a huge event like GRL. I prefer smaller groups personally. It really gives you time and space to really talk to people. For me, that is what it’s all about. </span></span><span style="font-size: 19px;">So… who’s going to meet me there?</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Now... about the cartoons...</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Who likes fairy tales? Okay… who <i>remembers </i>fairy tales? Ever wonder about how it might go to have a gay themed fairy tale? Hmm… makes me think. (Yeah, it did kind of hurt.)
I recently got the complete collection of Grimm’s Fairy Tales. I’d forgotten how gruesome some of those stories can be. I still loved ‘em though. They do remind me of my childhood.</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> It got me to thinking about trying my own hand in writing a fairy tale or two. What do you think? Perhaps a twist on a favorite, or something outside of the box? Got any plot stallions to share? Let me know, y’all. I'm going to be spending some time in a small town in France while attempting this. And yes, I plan on visiting a castle/chateau or three! So looking forward to that.</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I guess that’s about all I have for this week. Remember that it is always better to give than receive. Have you done something nice for someone lately? Helped someone who needed a little boost up? I’m sure you have! Way to go on getting some of those good Karma Coins in that big pink piggy bank!</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Have a grrreat week, y’all,</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Max
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"><br /></span></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12478374601116390008noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6013868102307208220.post-21835598897677779112017-02-26T08:45:00.003-05:002017-02-26T08:45:38.418-05:00A Letter...<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> So… this week has been a bit of a jumbled up mess for me. I don’t tend to be an overly emotional person, but there was an incident, a few actually, that made me want to go all redneck kinda postal on someone. Never a good thing.</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;">“It’s all in the sauce.” – <i>Fried Green Tomatoes</i></span></span></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I wanted to write a letter, a letter that I’ve written more than a few times before. Some were sent but most were only seen by my eyes. It’s a letter that I wish someone had written to me. Yes, I needed this very same letter once upon a time. It was a brief time in my life, but it is one that might have moved things along a bit better, a bit quicker had I received it.
Here is the letter…</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> My dear, dear friend;
I’d like to thank you for you being you. You’re one of the most gracious ladies, a term I don’t use lightly, that I’ve ever had the privilege of knowing. You light up a room when you walk in. Your smile, laughter and sense of humor are truly gifts which you selfishly give away time and time again. You’re one of the most intelligent and eloquent people I’ve met in sometime. You’re the type of person people, like myself, are drawn to like a magnet.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Ladies, like yourself, should be treated with respect and honor, like family heirlooms or fine crystal. When I see and witness anything other than that, I become very upset. This week, I have seen you mistreated, on several occasions and it hurts me. It hurts me because it hurts you and those around you as well, myself being one of them.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I understand the wish for everyone to just get along. I see the struggle of trying to maintain a calm and enjoyable environment, but there are times… at some point we all need to stop, take a step back and evaluate the situation. Examine the circumstance and dissect it and ask what the hell is going on.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> This is where I’m going to take the bull by the horns. As it was told to me by someone both of us love dearly “—that’s why you’re kitchen and I’m management.” This is so very true. So, I’m going to just put it bluntly… your partner is a bully.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Bear with me for a bit longer, if you please…</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I’m going with what I’ve personally seen, observed, witnessed and then heard. This person has slowly and methodically alienated you from friends and family. This is always the first step that often leads to domestic abuse and many times results in violence. I’ve seen it numerous times before in both straight and gay relationships. I’ve also been on the receiving end of this, so I know how it feels. How does it feel? It feels like you’re constantly trying to juggle situations so that everyone is happy. It’s a hard balancing act, which never seems to stop. It’s exhausting. Always pacifying the aggressor, making excuses, trying to hide the obvious misbehavior and bad manners. The feeling of wanting to crawl under the table and hide at times. Yes, I’ve been there. I do know. It feels like a broken record that will never end.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> This type of person will bring you you’re coffee in bed, spontaneously bring you flowers and small gifts. Things that will keep you enamored, captivated and basically string you along. All the kinds of things you want in a partner. Things that make you think that they care, and in a way, in their own way, they probably do, but then they are also the abusive bully.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I have now witnessed the snide remarks this person makes when you’re not around. How disrespectful they are to those who, like you, are just trying to get along and do the best that they can while being as supportive as they can. I’ve now seen the wedge they are using to further drive away those who love and care for you. It is happening, make no mistake about it. It is happening.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Every one of us makes choices. Some good, some not so good and then some that are just plain bad. Heaven help me, because I’ve made a lot of bad ones and paid for it in the end. It’s like that old theory—“for every action there is a positive or negative reaction”. Yeah… I’ve had my butt kicked several times with this one. The point here is it is your choice. However, there are times when we need someone to tell us the truth, as much as we might not like it or agree with it.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I may be putting it too simplistically, but you are fast approaching a crossroads where you are going to have to make a choice. Staying with this person means that people are going to continue to pull away, distance themselves from you. It doesn’t mean that they love or care for you any less, it is just simply that they are tired of being on the receiving end of this bully. As I mentioned, people can and do make choices. No one wants to put up with that type of crap and eventually… they won’t.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> If you have people, friends and family, who consistently tell you there is something wrong, at some point you need to pay attention. As hard as it may be, we all need a reality check. You may want this person to be the perfect one for you, the everlasting, undying love that we all want and crave, but… sometimes it just isn’t.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Who can you trust? Personally, I can count on one hand and have fingers left over of those I feel I can truly trust. Listen to those who are closest to you and will always have your back. In your heart of hearts, you will know what the best decision will be for you.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> You know when people say it is a new chapter in your life when you make a major change? Yeah, I think of it as opening a whole new book. The world is your oyster. The possibilities are endless. Yada, yada, yada. The clichés are endless. Well guess what? It’s true! There is a great big world out there. There are some wonderful people and great adventures to be had.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I had a very good and close friend who is now gone. I miss her terribly. She married such a person and stayed with him for eighteen years. When she divorced him, she told people “I’ve just lost two-hundred and forty pounds!” They would look gobsmacked at her. “Really?” they would ask. “Yep, I finally kicked that bastard to the curb,” she’d say, smiling.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Afterwards, she led a full life. She traveled. She reconnected with friends, who had stopped coming around. Spent more time with her children and grandchildren, whom she’d become somewhat distanced from. She had a grand time. I was able to spend some very good quality time with her in her later years. She was happy and content with her life. We should all be so lucky, right?</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> So, my dear lady, I wish you all the best of luck and I want you to know, that I will always be your friend. I will always be there for you. I only wish you the best and brightest of futures.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Your devoted friend,</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Max
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> <i> If you know of someone who might be in need of this letter, please feel free to forward, copy and paste or whatever you need to do. No one deserves to live in fear. </i></span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"><br /></span></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12478374601116390008noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6013868102307208220.post-55734166203136595722017-02-05T08:56:00.000-05:002017-02-05T08:56:32.162-05:00A Proud Curmudgeon! <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDo9abmhoI9ui5L24JBlKY1IS17OYdDrG28yFiUqW_75XycQsUPWQzvUQ_7npLoEhU7oX0-E_YXJ9ZACt4VlYJDfzfrz6xsgYDFi5EWGNGGCigaWdxtDej9sAw0ftsObtkc8vpYsJfyiCO/s1600/52093983.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDo9abmhoI9ui5L24JBlKY1IS17OYdDrG28yFiUqW_75XycQsUPWQzvUQ_7npLoEhU7oX0-E_YXJ9ZACt4VlYJDfzfrz6xsgYDFi5EWGNGGCigaWdxtDej9sAw0ftsObtkc8vpYsJfyiCO/s1600/52093983.jpg" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> So… I’ve been in quite the quandary these past few weeks. Busy beyond all belief and then just… ugh… I feel like Madeline Kahn… I’m so tired….</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> <span style="color: orange;"><b>Yeah, I am… </b></span></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Yep, I will admit it. I have no qualms about admitting it. I’ll carry a flag. I’ll show you an I.D., if I had one. I’m a proud recluse; a curmudgeon of the highest order. People will often scoff at my proclamation. They don’t believe me. Trust, me when I say, I’m really not kidding. Nope, I will readily hand you your ass if I feel that is what you need. Trust me. I ran a professional kitchen. I can make Gordon Ramsey look like an amateur when it comes to dressing down people. BTW, he really is a total ass. Can’t stand the man.</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I’m not quite sure who came up with this whole notion that I’m some sort of fuzzy teddy bear. First off, I’m not really fuzzy. I’d always wished I was, but alas, it was not meant to be. Oh, and I’m rather short. Too short for a real bear obviously. Did you know that I’m also Southern? Oh hell… do I have to explain that as well? Well I’m not gonna. Go read ‘Gone With the Wind’, if you feel the need to know.</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> It’s not that I hate people. Alright, I don’t hate <i>most </i>people, that better? I just find them irritating. They tend to piss me off. This has been a growing within me for the better part of three decades. The more relaxed our society becomes, the more likely people are going to forget basic manners. Whatever the fuck happened to ‘please’ and ‘thank you’? That doesn’t even take into account simple common courtesy!</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Don’t even get me started on what people will say online, behind their blinking little screens, their anonymity protected, or so they think. I know I’ve said it before, but I’m gonna say it again, right here… right now. If you don’t have something nice to say, shut the fuck up. I don’t want to hear it and the chances are, no one else will either. You got something nasty to say, go tell it to your BFF or in a mirror. Chances are, you’ll get a much better response.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> If I want to bitch about something, I have a completely rational, highly intelligent conversation with myself. No sense in dragging someone else’s poor tired ass into it now is there? I don’t even need to look into a mirror to do that. I can sit and weed my little garden and just fuss up a storm all by myself and have a wonderful time doing it, thank you very much.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> <b><span style="color: orange;">Stay away…</span></b></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I’ve really stayed away from social media lately. I already have high blood pressure; I don’t need someone else trying to force a stroke on my ass. Just when I thought… hmmm… I’ll go check things out, BAM! I get hit in the face with something that just pisses me off to the highest point of pistivity! And it didn’t even have anything to do with politics.</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Okay, I get that people need to talk about things. Their feelings… their… whatever. Go get a therapist. Tell a clergy or someone who will listen, nod their head, give you a blessing, let you rant and then shut the hell up. There are just some things the rest of us really don’t need or want to know.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Bragging will push me right over the edge. If you do something nice for someone, that’s wonderful. However, the best part of that is keeping it to yourself, knowing that you’ve done a really good thing. You don’t need to brag about it, patting yourself on the back for a job well done defeats the purpose if you ask me. You know you did it. Feel good about it and move along. Go do it again for someone else. There exceptions to this rule. Personally, if I’ve gotten help or involved someone else, I will talk about it. If it is just me, I will keep quiet about it.</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> ‘White Banners’, a book by Lloyd C. Douglas. No, don’t go rent the movie. It has a similar theme, but Hollywood totally botched that one. Good enough movie, but totally missed the mark in delivering the message of the book. Go. Read it. Feel good about yourself. It’s a great read and one book that I think should be required reading. You won’t regret it. Most every library has it.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> <b><span style="color: orange;">I told you…</span></b></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> See… now do you believe me? I’m a crusty old fart who really doesn’t give a flying rat’s ass about other people’s opinion of me. Okay… there are a few who I look to… um… scratch that. They’re already dead, so they don’t count. Do they? I may need a Bloody Mary and garden time to think about that one. Do their opinions matter if they’re dead?</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Putting it simply…</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> How I live my life, or try to:</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> 1. Treat others as I want to be treated.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> 2. Don’t lie.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> 3. Don’t steal.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> 4. Respect; me first then you.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> 5. Mind my own business.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> 6. Be kind and try to be helpful.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> 7. Offer a helping hand, not a hand out.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> 8. Don’t judge.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> 9. Manners matter.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> 10. Keep my mouth shut and nod.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> If I keep to these rules, I usually do okay. Whenever I have strayed… that’s when I always get in trouble. I always seem to be getting in trouble, but mostly because people don’t want to hear me jump their shit. If you don’t want to know, then you best not ask me, but I’ll pretty much tell you. ‘My it’s weather we’re having!’</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I’m somewhere between 55 and death, so I don’t have a whole lot to lose, now do I. “Ask me no questions, I’ll tell you no lies.” Just be damn sure you want the truth. I’m a good listener, and I usually know when that is all that is required of me. I’ll listen to just about anything as long as we know the ground rules. It’s when you ask for my input or opinion that I’m gonna give it to you, no sugar coating. You’ll get the truth.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> <span style="color: orange;"><b>Done…</b></span></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Now… stand up straight, square your shoulders and march. Go… do something productive. Make something. Be creative. Make someone else’s day. Mind your manners and things will turn out okay. Stay focused on what makes YOU a better person and don’t worry about those other folk. (For some unknown or rational reason ‘Onward Christian Soldier’ just popped into my head. I’m so ready for a cocktail now.)</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Have a grrreat week, y’all.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Max</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> p.s. Take most of this with a grain of salt, preferably from the rim of a cocktail glass. Most of it was tongue in check for those who just don’t get my sick sense of humour. But I really am a curmudgeon!
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> <b><span style="color: orange;">Oh... and happy Super Bowl! </span></b></span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia5cTV_TBVkdm__Tym2RWChwfXdE2X7BokFZxT6kIbmIyJ42ymWUMvK0mO6aXn5ImThANaXSOLSZHAJdxiVUOWtX5A2EpVh-5gw4kybx-PYQR8SlpTljTnGfkOq9zVesTwxugbaFm-2-hX/s1600/034+Naked_amateur_guys_491_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia5cTV_TBVkdm__Tym2RWChwfXdE2X7BokFZxT6kIbmIyJ42ymWUMvK0mO6aXn5ImThANaXSOLSZHAJdxiVUOWtX5A2EpVh-5gw4kybx-PYQR8SlpTljTnGfkOq9zVesTwxugbaFm-2-hX/s640/034+Naked_amateur_guys_491_1.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"><br /></span></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12478374601116390008noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6013868102307208220.post-6130059190789820532017-01-29T08:27:00.001-05:002017-01-29T08:27:25.703-05:00Feeding My Addiction(s)...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqTgpXcbHs111F94uUWNzylEIyRomz4s02jsseecaSK8nAI24leF9OnDTlnGTXiLYQCrE7kXL4mjiJAb6N-WxTBg8DVPTq4gPMn1RqaFyR0K8vcwcEreq8JupaOtNqiTVsYEg1YYivHliN/s1600/1452494_561558247266579_530963974_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqTgpXcbHs111F94uUWNzylEIyRomz4s02jsseecaSK8nAI24leF9OnDTlnGTXiLYQCrE7kXL4mjiJAb6N-WxTBg8DVPTq4gPMn1RqaFyR0K8vcwcEreq8JupaOtNqiTVsYEg1YYivHliN/s320/1452494_561558247266579_530963974_n.jpg" width="212" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> So… I’m sitting here wishing I had a cocktail. It’s really too early to start drinking and I have a meeting in four hours and it would probably be a good thing if I weren’t drunk off my butt for it. Although, she probably wouldn’t mind. Yeah, she probably would come to think of it. Only because she’d be sober though.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Ho Hum…</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Last time TAT (That Aussie Tart) and I went out to dinner with some friends after happy hour. We went to this little French style café, which isn’t too bad. Service was a bit on the wonky side, but that is pretty much everywhere here. I swear, I don’t know who some places stay in business to be honest, but that’s a whole ‘nother story for another time. Anyway, this friend asked me if I missed cooking.</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Yep, face plant in a big plate of depression. I miss not being in a kitchen so badly at times I seriously could just cry. I miss not working. I miss not having the adrenalin pumping when your ass is about one minute from going into the weeds. The noise, the heat and then… it’s over and everyone is cleaning and ready for a couple of well-deserved stiff drinks. Yeah, I miss it like nothing else. It’s my drug of choice and it was taken away from me when I was enjoying it the most. But… sometimes that’s the way things go. Who knows, if I could ever convince someone to cut my feet off and I get some of those bouncy prosthetics like that legless Olympian, I could be back in business, just bouncing off the walls of a kitchen once again.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Speaking of which, the next time I’m in France, I swear I’m going to find a good patisserie and eat my weight in éclairs! I don’t know what it wrong with American bakeries. They can’t seem to get it right no matter what. Oh… and a good opera cake. Damn, I’m craving junk food.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Hurry, change of subject…</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> You know what really burns my ass? A flame about three foot high. That an old quote from a Dolly Parton movie. A good friend, Lisa Schrader, tagged me in a post about some Yankee woman who had never appreciated Ms. Parton for who she really is. Of course so many people think that she’s just some overly made up country singing bimbo. She is so far from that. She is probably one of the most generous people on earth. She gives back to her community like no one ever else has. With all the wildfires that devastated the East Tennessee region, she has promised one-thousand dollars to each and every family affected until they get up on their feet. She’s held a fundraiser.</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: orange; font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"><b>Here’s the link of the woman who changed her opinion of this icon. </b></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"><a href="https://amyrawe.com/2016/12/08/an-open-apology-to-dolly-parton/" target="_blank">An Open Apology To Dolly Parton</a></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> She bought Silver Dollar City and named it Dollywood, which I’m sure some of you may have heard of. That place used to only be open about four months out of the year. Now that place runs year round and provides thousands upon thousands of jobs to local and traveling people.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> She also has a mobile library for the kids who are so remote; there is little or no chance for them to get to a library. She expanded on that and is now sending preschool kids’ books in the mail for free! You heard right, these kids have the opportunity to get a free book every month at no cost.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> No, our jezebel wanna be is so much more than a talented songwriter – performer. She is a superstar where I come from and it has nothing to do with her musical abilities at all. So, I’m gonna sing me a little Dolly tonight while whooping up something in the kitchen tonight. I’m thinking Jolene might be the ticket.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Where’s that damn escalator…</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I so want to jump on my soapbox. I’m just too fucking lazy to walk up the stairs. You might want to be glad that I can’t find the escalator. Trump the chump just pisses me off. Him and his stupid wall. At what point has a wall ever really worked. Let’s ask the Chinese. Or how about the Brits with their stupid wall. Did it work? Or Berlin… how well did that wall fair? Hmm. Walls haven’t worked at any point in history and it won’t work now. Physically or virtually. The anti-Muslim wall he’s erecting won’t work either. It’s only going to piss more people off and play into the hands of the extreme right radicals, Christian AND Muslim. Okay… that’s as far as I can make it without the escalator. Ain’t you glad!?</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Moving right along…</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Did I mention I’m having the wackiest cravings? My doctor put me on a mega dose of steroids for four days and they are kicking my ass bad. It’s worse that smoking pot, as I remember. Makes me want to eat the entire house. I sat down and had a party size bag of Doritos last night with about half a gallon of milk. Damn, I’m going to look like I swallowed a beach ball the way I’m going. Either that or I’m carry triplets, which is impossible. Oh wait… there is that whole immaculate conception thing… who knows… think I could sell that story?</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> <b><span style="color: orange;">I gotta goooo…</span></b></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I’m gonna close this bad boy up now so I can go and scarf up something good… or not so good, so let me just say… get out there and live life. Be happy. Do something for someone else. You won’t break a nail. It won’t break the bank. Your face won’t crack if you smile. Just do it. Put some of them good Karma Coins in that piggy bank.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Have a grrreat week, y’all.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Max
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"><br /></span></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12478374601116390008noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6013868102307208220.post-68268254888196207472017-01-22T08:42:00.004-05:002017-01-22T08:42:48.127-05:00I'll Shut Up Now...<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> So… I’ve been sitting here trying to figure out something nice to say. I don’t know about y’all but my momma told me, “If you don’t have anything nice to say, keep your mouth shut.” Yeah, well that doesn’t always work for me.</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> <b><span style="color: orange;">When is a spade not a spade…</span></b></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Never. Basically if you’re a liar and a cheat, you’re always going to be a liar and a cheat. Add thief to that and you’ve got a human being that isn’t worth his weight in salt. I never thought I would actually say this about a sitting President of the United States but… Donald J. Trump is a thief, a liar and a cheat. It is easily proven. It isn’t a big surprise.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I’ve made it a point to not get into this political mess, but after Friday, I can’t hold back any longer. How this happened I don’t know. I just lied. Yes I do. I know exactly how this happened. People didn’t get out and vote. We have the lowest turnout for elections of any westernized country. That is pretty shameful.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> <b><span style="color: orange;">Tha, tha, that’s all folks…</span></b></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Since I really can’t think of anything nice to say, I’m going to stop right here. I had another thousand words, but after reading it, I just deleted it. Yep, that’s just… well that’s all. I’m going to head my mother’s advice and shut up now.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> <b><span style="color: orange;">Did you know?...</span></b></span></span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcQ20_xliCAjJTMQ-78zNjYbcG6LDygEWfmDxoBOZ5EFp7NAZQVY8G50aVoi65kWKZherHFgXBHJNokWSdHw7llMoe5TzJTkR9orx0MDfyTyLs-tZ14n04tr8btMMvBJMEohdm55vPjtl7/s1600/POW-ENGLISH--for-Amazon-1400-x-2100.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcQ20_xliCAjJTMQ-78zNjYbcG6LDygEWfmDxoBOZ5EFp7NAZQVY8G50aVoi65kWKZherHFgXBHJNokWSdHw7llMoe5TzJTkR9orx0MDfyTyLs-tZ14n04tr8btMMvBJMEohdm55vPjtl7/s320/POW-ENGLISH--for-Amazon-1400-x-2100.jpg" width="213" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Yep, I re-release P.O.W. If you’ve not seen the new cover yet, you haven’t seen one of the most beautiful book covers I’ve ever seen. A.J. Corza is a genius. I’m just blown away by her talent.
If you’ve not read P.O.W., it is now available at your favorite book retailer. Please read the warnings though. It won’t be for everyone. It is hard and gritty and not always nice.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: orange; font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"><b>Buy links</b></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MZ64B0L" target="_blank">Amazon</a></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"><a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/p.-o.-w./id1191599631?mt=11" target="_blank">iBooks</a></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"><a href="https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/693806" target="_blank">Smashwords</a></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"><a href="https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/p-o-w-3" target="_blank">Kobo</a></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> <span style="color: orange;"><b>But before I go…</b></span></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I’d like to thank everyone who donated books for the Zebra Coalition. I’m going to start categorizing everything this week and see about arranging a date for delivery. If I’m able to get it all done this week I hope to have a number to give y’all. Overall, I’m very pleased with how many responded to the request for books. I knew you would. You’ve never let me down yet when I ask for help. You guys rock.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Remember, we all have more in common than not. Treat everyone with respect and the chances are they will reciprocate. Do something nice for someone else and you will reap those good Karma Coins.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Have a great week, y’all,</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Max
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"><br /></span></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12478374601116390008noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6013868102307208220.post-82246757571468312542017-01-15T09:52:00.000-05:002017-01-15T09:52:59.332-05:00I'm So Confused...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUS2JI2kRHiHm_x4Dd04GhXLL-vEIiSHJdBZ9tt9RUmm5v3MZKPM-1i4XQu0X_VfpVWMzrjZ5Tay85H_b8SbHGIx2uUzKFvc5hW7nYYP-22rAvUOVrVJuiB56M_m5LOq8yFvodAFt6MI3M/s1600/sidealkl.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUS2JI2kRHiHm_x4Dd04GhXLL-vEIiSHJdBZ9tt9RUmm5v3MZKPM-1i4XQu0X_VfpVWMzrjZ5Tay85H_b8SbHGIx2uUzKFvc5hW7nYYP-22rAvUOVrVJuiB56M_m5LOq8yFvodAFt6MI3M/s320/sidealkl.png" width="239" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> So… I’m sitting here pondering about the state of things. I’m so confused. On one hand I want to scream and on the other I want to hide. Oh, and then there’s the feeling I have that I have to put on my happy face and pretend that everything is perfectly okay.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Why so…</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Angry? You bet’cha. When I order Chinese delivery, and I get an eggroll, I expect mustard damn it! What the hell? Who doesn’t want the hot mustard with their deep fried goodness? Come on now, admit it. Don’t you get a little pissed off when they forget that? I know I do.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Oh and don’t even get me started on stupid people. I mean, there are those who can’t help it, but then there are those who are just too fucking lazy to get the facts straight. Yeah, those folk who are now pissed that our GOP laden government is going to do away with the Affordable Care Act. They are screaming their fool heads off because they had no clue that Obama Care and the Affordable Care Act are the same thing. Really? Are you really that fucking stupid? If you are, then you deserve exactly what you get… which in this case is nothing.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> And then there are those idiots that seem to have forgotten that there are indicator lights in cars. It’s an epidemic here in Florida. I bet there are probably less that 10% who actually use them. There are times that I want to tell them that they need to either return their new car or have it serviced because obviously, their turn signals don’t work. Grrr…</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Hiding…
I got a new throw (blankie) for Xmas. It’s a big orange UT one that is so nice and fuzzy. (Thanks TAT. I love it!) There are days when I just want to stay in bed and cover my head and relish my blankie. Okay, I do like it that much, but there are some days that I don’t want to face the world.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> To be truthful, I really, really don’t want to go to the grocery store. It is bad on the best of days here but on Saturday? Why did I put it off till today? No matter what day you go, it seems to always be busy. Well, unless you go as soon as they open at 7 a.m. No, not one of my favorite things here.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I want to hide from Facebook and other social media lately. There is so much hate and bad stuff erupting everywhere that I just want to crawl under my blankie. Why can’t we be civil to one another? Has etiquette and manners completely disappeared? Do you think these people would act this way if the other person/people were sitting across the table from them? I highly doubt it. I wish everyone would take a deep breath and imagine that person sitting in front of them before blasting their business for the entire world to see.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Did I mention that I really like my new blankie? Maybe everything else is just an excuse to be all comfy cozy. I may have to think about that… under said blankie of course!</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> My happy face…</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> My mother told me once that no one wanted to hear my woes and for the most part, she was right. I think I’ve mentioned this before. When someone asks how you are, they don’t want to hear your crap. That is why I put on my happy face and move on. Compartmentalize is the key here: putting things in nice little boxes to deal with later. I’ve gotten pretty good at doing that. I think it’s a good thing to be able to do.</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> There are times when I think it is easier to put on the happy face. It keeps things in balance. People won’t ask you what’s wrong, or what is going on with you. It’s easier, let’s be frank. I’m sure that there are times when we all have to do that, whether we like it or not. It’s just part of life I think. I also think that there are some people who need to practice this a bit more. Trust me when I say, it comes in handy.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Where’s the fork…</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Done. And there you have it. All my emotions spelled out… or spilled out, all over the page. No wonder I’m a mess here lately. Of course, it could also mean that I’m going through dirt withdrawal. I’ve not been out digging in the dirt in a few weeks. Now that I think about it… I’m sure that’s what the issue is. I need me some dirt time!</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Oh… and did you know…</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I got the rights back to a book I wrote years ago. P.O.W. In my humble opinion, this book was never marketed by the publisher. Actually, at the time of release and until I got the rights back, it wasn’t even available on Amazon in e-book format. Why, I’ll never know. I also think that is was so overpriced that no one bought it.</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> It now has a new cover, thank god, and has been re-edited. I’d forgotten what a good book it is, if I do say so myself. I feel that part of that was because I was so disgusted with how it was handled by the publisher that I almost hated the thing. Now that I have the rights back and I’ve read it again, I’m surprised at how powerful this book is. For sure, it is not for the light of heart. There are some difficult scenes in there.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Anyway, it's available for pre-order. Here are some buy links.</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MZ64B0L" target="_blank">Amazon</a></span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"><a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/p.-o.-w./id1191599631?mt=11" target="_blank">iTunes</a></span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"><a href="https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/693806" target="_blank">Smashwords</a></span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"><a href="https://www.kobo.com/us/en/search?Query=P.%20O.%20W.%20(Max%20Vos)&ac=1&acp=Max%20Vos&ac.title=P.%20O.%20W.&ac.author=Max%20Vos" target="_blank">Kobo</a></span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"><a href="http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/pow-max-vos/1117192098?ean=2940153941387" target="_blank">Barnes and Noble</a> </span></span></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;">Happy Dance…</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Wow… thanks to all the wonderful authors and readers who have sent books for the Zebra Coalition library. So many books have come in that I’m a bit overwhelmed. The kids are going to flip when they see how many.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> The postman handed me the mail the other day and thought that something was wrong when he didn’t have a parcel for me. I told him not to worry, that UPS had gotten there before him, so all was good. I had to smile at that. It won’t be long before they are all ready to be loaded up and taken to the center. I’ll try and get some photos for y’all.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Again, thank you all so very much. As always, you guy come through for me each and every time. If you didn’t buy/send a book, there are still things you can do. Sign up for Amazon’s Smile program. You can pick them as a favored charity where part of your purchase price is donated to them. Or you can check out their wish list, which you have to actually click their name under ‘wish list’ to see what they need. A lot of things are under $20.00. I try and get one thing each month. I usually do it right after I’ve paid all the bills. It makes me feel a little better. Just think of the good Karma Coins you’ll be able to put in that piggy bank!</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Have a grrreat week, y’all.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Max
</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"><br /></span></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12478374601116390008noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6013868102307208220.post-60392161051124648342017-01-08T08:25:00.000-05:002017-01-08T08:25:57.962-05:00Another New Year...<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> So… it’s a new year. Am I the only one who is finding it hard to write 2017? Not so much that I was in the habit of writing 2016, but just difficult to wrap my head around the date itself. I find it hard to believe I made it this far.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="clear: right; float: right; font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img height="245" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3ISYCiN5Q2YnO_qxrjTZEsZb1we5KmY-GRmMd2rzoe-Tjn1kerSZve30l-JfU2iVxXdAnBmp6ElgKEJ6TIF3PnRIdIBn5_dK8NYoqbvX4MRgoDpLeNwLFOt2TXMG80T4599ZX1RMyo8Pg/s320/4+nude+men.gif" width="320" /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> <b><span style="color: orange;">Putting it away…</span></b></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Over the holidays, I’ve received numerous greeting cards. There were a few that really cracked me up. Some people know me too well. Many of you know that I hate snow. I’ve come to detest cold weather, mainly because I find it painful, so when I got a card that said “I Love Snow” with a cute snowman, I at first frowned. Then I saw who it was from and had to laugh. I got another one that was so funny and sooo me, I almost pissed myself. There are a few that I think I’m going to keep and pull back out next year. They’re too good to throw away.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJkuWBjACleM1MvD1bqvRynYxpeANJ4oWa6OdL9kAV50xcR3dCfBPJxlxNXLGlNDt2qvPkj9hdV9UkiGNi28O-4ZEGNerjh_In-KBS4ROoiz3DYKNhwQor0qqwgLWmuIwrPPVuRpLQ2azQ/s1600/santacame2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJkuWBjACleM1MvD1bqvRynYxpeANJ4oWa6OdL9kAV50xcR3dCfBPJxlxNXLGlNDt2qvPkj9hdV9UkiGNi28O-4ZEGNerjh_In-KBS4ROoiz3DYKNhwQor0qqwgLWmuIwrPPVuRpLQ2azQ/s320/santacame2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I did manage to send out a few cards myself this year, not many. That was the first time in several decades that I’d done so. I did avoid doing it the day after Thanksgiving, but I still found it a little difficult. And of course, putting it off meant that several of them didn’t make it before Christmas, but I figure they were ‘Holiday cards’ so it still counts.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> <b><span style="color: orange;">Speaking of…</span></b></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> No. No. No! I do not do snow! I hate the stuff. Yeah, as a little kid I liked it well enough, especially when it got me out of school. I however, learned very quickly to dislike the white, wet, cold, disgusting crap at a very early age. You see, I had a paper route. I rode a bicycle to deliver papers. Those papers had to be delivered come rain, snow or heat wave. Have you ever tried to ride a bike in ten inches of snow? Yeah, it doesn’t work. When it snowed I ended up having to walk that damned route. Cold, wet feet is not my idea of a good time. So, yeah, I hate the stuff.</span></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nope! Not even for him!</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Having lived through the blizzard in Washing D.C. back in the 80’s, and having to walk from the subway in two feet of snow in my work clogs only made me hate it that much more. When it snowed in Atlanta, and things shut down, I knew that as soon as I could, I’d be moving even further south, which I did. I swear, if Global Warming, or whatever the PC name for it is now-a-days, causes it to snow in Florida, I’m going even further south. I wonder if I could move to Cuba. I bet I could find me a cute cabaña boy there! I could perhaps even afford one there!</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> <b><span style="color: orange;">Marching on…</span></b></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Last week I think I mentioned trying to do better. I’ve been thinking a bit this week about that. It’s not as easy as it was when I lived in Atlanta. Things were closer and there was more need. A LOT more need. Here? Not as much. Not that there isn’t need, you just don’t see it as readily.
I’ve decided to continue my focus on LGBT kids.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> It still amazes me when people think that gay kids aren’t tossed out like yesterday’s trash, by their own parents, just because the kid is homosexual. That in itself proves that there is still work to be done and a thus, a need.
I personally know what it is like to be bullied because of it. I personally know what it is like to be rejected by family. I personally know how hard it is and the fear that comes along with it. Kids have it hard enough without piling all that shit on them as well. Kids should have the chance to be just kids.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Here… have a look if you dare. Yes, I do dare you. I <i>double-dawg</i> dare you. </span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1t3vfQIJ-zk&t=33s">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1t3vfQIJ-zk&t=33s</a></span></span></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> When I lived in Atlanta I did what I could for ‘Lost-n-Found’, a great organization that helped displaced, homeless LGBT youth. I believe that everyone should help out, whenever possible in their own community. So when I moved to Florida, I found an organization not too far from where I live and have tried to concentrate on doing what I could for them.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I did a book drive to help build their small library. If kids have books that they can relate to, perhaps they’ll read more. Reading is always a good thing if you ask me. I also push to help clear away their wish list, which is really easy to do. I did the same thing, the wish list that is, for ‘Lost-n-Found’. Many times there are things listed that cost less than $10.00, so it is affordable for me to do a little something each month.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> There are so many things that one can do that doesn’t really cost much at all. A friend in Georgia made hats and scarfs for kids on the streets for the winter. Another makes afghans so a kid can have something warm that they can call their own. There is so much talent out there, I’m sure everyone could think of something that they could do.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Look into your own community. See what needs there are and see if you can’t do a little something to make a difference. If each of us does just a little bit, think of how that could add up. Oh and think of all those good Karma Coins you can put in the bank. Karma is a funny thing sometimes. Whatever goes around comes around and often it comes back with interest! Woo-Hoo! How cool is that?</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> So go forth… do your best, be your best and remember, kindness doesn’t cost a thing and manners do matter.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Have a grrreat week, y’all.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Max.
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"><br /></span></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12478374601116390008noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6013868102307208220.post-62396829507048000302017-01-02T09:18:00.000-05:002017-01-02T09:18:28.030-05:00I'm Coming Out...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1cajlDfB-llxRYaQV3_rpYcgM6kww_THsFblakFMgF4-Ec8z_jnQg-dE4zyJhoG6M4MKOq5aw1DC1CGI3lVARkbaYKdLjzZLpn3crZPmTsPXvyP4zcTfbdYD71I04nq__JQd8GIsu212o/s1600/tumblr_nthykzHX1v1udh79ro1_1280.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1cajlDfB-llxRYaQV3_rpYcgM6kww_THsFblakFMgF4-Ec8z_jnQg-dE4zyJhoG6M4MKOq5aw1DC1CGI3lVARkbaYKdLjzZLpn3crZPmTsPXvyP4zcTfbdYD71I04nq__JQd8GIsu212o/s320/tumblr_nthykzHX1v1udh79ro1_1280.jpg" width="240" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> So… I sit here feeling… I’m not even sure how I’m feeling to be honest. My emotions are kinda all over the place. I think that maybe for the first time I’m going to open up a bit about some of the things that I believe in. Sorry, but I’m going to use this as a little self-therapy and hopefully it will help me sort out some things.</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> <span style="color: orange;"><b>To start…</b></span></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I’m somewhat terrified. I had hoped against hope that the election wouldn’t go the way it did… but it did. I think deep down I knew it would, but one must always have hope. What this means for me personally is that I’m going to have to take steps, pretty quickly, just to survive. That may sound a little overly dramatic, but it is the truth. I’m not going to get into the details, but its a horrible position to be put in. I don’t think people completely understand what is about to befall them, and a good deal of them are going to find out the hard way.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> <span style="color: orange;"><b>Bhaaaaaa…</b></span></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I think so many of us have become sheep. We will automatically follow the one in front of us without question. Realizing I was gay in the early 70’s turned me away from the pack I think. It is the only time that I can pinpoint when I started to question… just about everything. You have to realize, that Stonewall had only happened a decade earlier, and living in the Bible Belt, it took a loooong while for the fallout of that event to trickle down to make any kind of difference in my life. The only thing positive about that event was that it did open people’s eyes that gay people existed openly.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> But (Yeah, I know you’re not really supposed to start a sentence with but… get over it.) when you are being bullied, not only from your social peers, but your family as well, it tends to make you separate yourself from the crowd and start to try and figure things out on your own. Basically, I only had myself and a one other person that I could rely on: my sister.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> When you are put in that kind of situation as a very young teenager, you really don’t have much of a choice. That is when I think I broke away from the herd. Okay, I also was in a school system that really did teach you how to think on your own. As a kid I never knew how fortunate I was to grow up where I did. It was basically an isolated think-tank with brilliant people all around me. I was extremely lucky. However, that didn’t shield me from the stigma that went along with being gay.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> <span style="color: orange;"><b>Don’t do it…</b></span></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> My mother told me from a very early age that one should never discuss politics, religion or money with anyone but your closest inner circle and even then, tread with caution. This advice has served me well for most of my life. I never really discussed politics but I basically didn’t give two shits about it. That changed.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> What made me jump, head first, into politics was the AIDS epidemic that surrounded me. It was so pervasive in my life it was suffocating. Men I knew started to disappear. One day the light clicked on and I saw how politics directly impacted my life. What an eye opener that was.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> When I started to pay attention and think for myself about politics, what I saw sickened me. That was when I began to scrutinize the actions of our elected leadership. I think I was too immature to connect all the dots at the time but I knew things weren’t quite right. Financially things were getting better, or so I thought, but other things were getting worse. I didn’t know how much worse there were going to get. I still don’t know where it is going to end because it is still happening.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> What I saw happening had a word; a name. I had never heard the word before. Never knew it existed, but as of today, I do now and it scares the ever-living shit out of me. I am going to provide you with a link. If you have any interest at all in the well-being of others, you might take the time to read it. I will warn you now, not only is it disturbing, but you really have to push through it all. There are some of you will simply dismiss it as rhetoric, but having lived this long and having witnessed the changes described, I see it quite plainly. Of course I don’t believe everything in this article, but for the most part… I think it is spot on.</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"><img height="172" src="https://i.guim.co.uk/img/media/656fb5340b0bc0fd6a4c0abe9186db0daeef3709/0_340_2304_1987/2304.jpg?w=700&q=55&auto=format&usm=12&fit=max&s=5f28ce798ceaf74b3ee77e4ddef17ecd" width="200" /></span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"><a href="https://www.theguardian.com/books/2016/apr/15/neoliberalism-ideology-problem-george-monbiot?CMP=fb_gu" target="_blank">Enlightenment</a></span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> <span style="color: orange;"><b>Ouch…</b></span></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> This morning I’m feeling very old. I am fast approaching fifty-six, which many of you will not say is not old. In fact, in gay years, I might as well just ship myself off to the glue factory. Ageism in the gay community is quite prevalent, let me assure you. Once you turn fifty, you’ve become obsolete. If you are honest about your age, you are politely shunned, at first. Get to fifty-five and you’ll soon start to feel as if you’ve got leprosy and it is all over your face. That is the simple fact of being a gay man in this day and age.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Within the heterosexual community, I’m told how young I am and how I am not old and that I have so much going for me. That works well for them and I’m glad. It is a comfort to some degree I guess. I blame the lack of education within the gay community for a lot of this.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: Gay History should be taught in schools just like Black History. It will do two things right away: One, it will cut down on bullying. Once it is talked about, the stigma lessens. It won’t do away with it, especially with all the right-wing bible thumping, gun-toting, ‘do-gooders’ abounding, but it will help. Two: It will teach gay youth to respect the gay people that came before them and fought for the rights they take advantage of today. I don’t think they get that. They don’t understand what it took for them to be openly gay in school, hold hands on the street or have the right to say “I do” in front of friends and family. This is lost to them because there is no one telling our story.
Yeah, so I’m feeling a bit melancholy with all this running through my head.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> <span style="color: orange;"><b>However…</b></span></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I still have hope. Why? Because that is just the way I’m wired I guess. In my mind, if I keep pushing, helping others, doing what I think is best, in the end it will all turn out all right. That might be walking around with rose-colored glasses on, but hey… it is better than drowning myself in Bailey’s laced coffee, pulling a black blanket over my head and crying about how unfair life is. That is just not me.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Nope, I’m going to happily put on my special glasses and keep on doing what I’m doing. By focusing on others I know that I’m at least making a difference, one little baby step at a time. Without a doubt I am delusional, but my days of outright activism are long past. This is about as much activism I can muster at this point in my life. I can point out things, and hopefully educate as I do what I can to make someone else’s life a bit better. Gotta get them Karma Coins somehow ya know.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> The one thing that I want for this New Year is that people find kindness. There are many more things that we have in common than not. A friendly word, a kindness shown will make everyone’s day a little better. Remember that manners do matter. Go forth and shine brightly.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Have a grrreat week, y’all.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Max
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"><br /></span></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12478374601116390008noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6013868102307208220.post-89241525735225425462016-12-25T08:57:00.000-05:002016-12-25T08:57:06.880-05:00Merry Christmas...Looking Back<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> So… Another week has passed. Is it just me or has this year rushed by. Where does the time go? It seems as if only yesterday it was… well not Christmas, that’s for sure. I always fall into reflection around this time of year.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> <b><span style="color: orange;">A Christmas Memory… <i>(see how I worked that in? LOL)</i></span></b></span></span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5VUbkn49QKSeCoG5B5qtffAV4r1W0ESyro74jLiLQuhffMmMSC8YAVr7ixNpR9PRxyhEGxdbUa0atSZkCyiRyaoH-j2XKg6riLnyV9PtD9BH_5cfOQbmsh_oqER-wEmZzDrbewnxa4eUi/s1600/A-Christmas-Memory-for-Amazon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5VUbkn49QKSeCoG5B5qtffAV4r1W0ESyro74jLiLQuhffMmMSC8YAVr7ixNpR9PRxyhEGxdbUa0atSZkCyiRyaoH-j2XKg6riLnyV9PtD9BH_5cfOQbmsh_oqER-wEmZzDrbewnxa4eUi/s320/A-Christmas-Memory-for-Amazon.jpg" width="192" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> It was my fourth Christmas, yeah four years old. My mother, sister and I had moved in with my Grandmother a few months previously. Yes, my mother and father were on the road to divorce, which was rather scandalous back then. Anyway, things were a little tumultuous to say the least. Emotions were running high and I really didn’t care: I was with my grandmother, who I loved more than anything in the world.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I remember being asked what I wanted for Christmas. What I really <i>wanted </i>was an easy bake oven, a set of dishes and who knows what else. I can’t really remember everything. Of course my father went ballistic. Those weren’t things to give a boy! My grandmother didn’t listen or care.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Now you have to understand a little bit about my grandmother. She was one of those women who raised nine children during the great depression. My grandfather was injured in a railroad accident and wasn’t much help. She was a teetotaler and disapproved of anyone who drank. (Didn’t stop most of my family though. There’s a cute story here that I’ll try and get to another time.) She was also one of the most giving people I ever knew.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Guess what? I got that easy bake oven and the dishes. I’m pretty sure it was my grandmother who got them, even though they said they were from Santa. The only problem, in my mind, was the damn oven was pink. I really don’t like pink, but those were the days that dictated that girls did the cooking. Boy did I prove them wrong.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Of course that silly oven didn’t last very long. I was a pretty rough and tough little boy after all. The dishes… I was finally convinced to give them up when I was around eleven or twelve. My grandmother had died when I was eight years old.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> It was my grandmother who instilled in me the love of cooking. There were many early morning weekends when she would keep me occupied in the kitchen so my mother could sleep in, having worked late the night before. She taught me how to make pancakes, which I thought was the best thing ever. To this day, when I make pancakes, I think of her and smile.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Her philosophy: “Food feeds the body. Food made with love feeds the soul.” I’ve always remembered that.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> <b><span style="color: orange;"> Christmas Memories 2… <i>(Ha! I did it again. I’m so clever. He he he)</i></span></b></span></span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIy50-Ur0et6eLql0uSyaAgpXTcvvILleW91DiW3IAEZK0FQrSpRtcJFJZFHgscea49_2_hyAtfA9rgwdWQGWf7nSeuYM3oFZngwqXOfVvaP5n3hYFWkZR8xIO6Ms71vVvAy0sKPoAEghT/s1600/christmas-memory-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIy50-Ur0et6eLql0uSyaAgpXTcvvILleW91DiW3IAEZK0FQrSpRtcJFJZFHgscea49_2_hyAtfA9rgwdWQGWf7nSeuYM3oFZngwqXOfVvaP5n3hYFWkZR8xIO6Ms71vVvAy0sKPoAEghT/s320/christmas-memory-2.jpg" width="200" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Back in 1984, I spent Christmas alone. In August of that year, the mom and pop restaurant I was working in closed. Okay, that’s a bit of an understatement. It was chained shut by the IRS. I was suddenly unemployed with a month’s worth of salary unpaid left me and completely broke. It didn’t help that it was also the first of the month and rent was due.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> That was a scary time for me. I almost became homeless for the first time in my life, and thankfully, the last time. I ended up working three jobs as I tried to work myself out of the huge financial hole I suddenly found myself in. It was definitely a low point in my life. I wouldn’t recommend it.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Anyway, it was suddenly Christmas. My poor car was in serious need of repair so there was no way it was going to make the drive from Washington, D.C. to Tennessee. Most of my friends were with family or left to go to wherever they were going for the holidays. That left me in the city… alone. The first time I’d spent Christmas away from home. If I’m correct, that was also the last Christmas I didn’t work for close to twenty years.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Being the stupid youngster I was, I didn’t plan ahead of course. Okay, hell, I was exhausted if I’m to be honest. That was the first day I’d had off since September of that year. What I’m saying is that there was no food in the apartment. Why would I buy food when I was never there and I always ate at work… at one job or another or all of them.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I ended up going out into the city, which was mostly deserted, in search of food. Of course, almost nothing was open. Back then… everyone closed up for Christmas. I did find a crappy dinner that was open close to the Washington Post. I guess they stayed open because of the close proximity to the newspaper. News never stops ya know, especially in Washington.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> It was surprising how packed the place was. I guess I wasn’t the only one with no place to go on Christmas. I had a huge breakfast and hung out drinking coffee and talking to one of the cooks for a while. Later on… I left, found a gay bar that was of course open, albeit almost empty, and got as drunk as Cooter Brown.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> That was a rather expensive Christmas. Not only from the bar but from the taxi that I took home. Never trust cab drivers in D.C.!</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> <span style="color: orange;"><b>A Christmas Memory 3: <i>(Yep, I did it again. LMAO)</i></b></span></span></span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNjuQefD17dweqTXt6noJ-qiHREAJWvI5byLVszMUHaafO6TY-wFI-Sx1IPu6jw-O3efUg0JUQ5z8sZxHpODMmvAeezEceTdbRF6l1faDxzQoGSYmVaTJpcSt0WXlmp8Wocfr1H1MxbyzE/s1600/XM-3--for-ARe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNjuQefD17dweqTXt6noJ-qiHREAJWvI5byLVszMUHaafO6TY-wFI-Sx1IPu6jw-O3efUg0JUQ5z8sZxHpODMmvAeezEceTdbRF6l1faDxzQoGSYmVaTJpcSt0WXlmp8Wocfr1H1MxbyzE/s1600/XM-3--for-ARe.jpg" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Now, I’m sitting here with this humongous tree taking up most of the living room and presents underneath. I sit staring at it wearing shorts, a T-shirt and flip-flops with the doors and windows open. The dogs keep running outside chasing who knows what. I have this great urge to go make pancakes. I’m very fortunate and thankful for all the blessings I have.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> <span style="color: orange;"><b> A New Year…</b></span></span></span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-wlKjhyphenhyphendOcxd7QIkCO0oCc3EU33e3QrHW34t3CFdMfFHdjdpuP0SfwanBjna7_f8hu_DEPYJzhiCdA-S20b5z58xPiCbGyR0J6v_VL38-K4VD4yM-xLndhKhx90DnOu4EexfbK8u2-9vA/s1600/15665509_758022807678330_1093973506447621342_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-wlKjhyphenhyphendOcxd7QIkCO0oCc3EU33e3QrHW34t3CFdMfFHdjdpuP0SfwanBjna7_f8hu_DEPYJzhiCdA-S20b5z58xPiCbGyR0J6v_VL38-K4VD4yM-xLndhKhx90DnOu4EexfbK8u2-9vA/s320/15665509_758022807678330_1093973506447621342_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> As 2017 approaches it makes me wonder what the future has in store for me. What adventures will I see? The one thing I do know for sure is that there will always be those who are less fortunate. There will always been a need. There will always be kids who find themselves on the streets or in homes that are less that functional. That makes me sad. But it also gives me opportunity to do something good. Maybe I can share some of the things I’ve learned along the way. Maybe… just maybe, I can pass along the love of cooking that was bestowed upon me by my grandmother. Of course, it never hurts to put some of those good Karma Coins in the piggy bank. Who knows what lies ahead? I do know that I will embrace the challenges ahead, good or bad.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 19px;"> I hope everyone has a joyous holiday season,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 19px;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 19px;"> Max</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"><br /></span></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12478374601116390008noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6013868102307208220.post-46165859401724744602016-12-18T09:06:00.000-05:002016-12-18T09:06:33.878-05:00I Sit and Ramble... Again<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMFjh1xp0DOdkoMsJy5ba5r97uQoMLabU20BVXXyvVQI0IsySJhdedIfO1d3Sc9ymd8anYzsGKmXBKuPl3da9JTqIP90oHcoZ-z9Wgz36-2HSM3Om1b3KkR0qMouxOnNiplFMkaYPlea22/s1600/%255EB1D1EC93F7D8C7212242E22A72B1AC4F2589DA13973EE1AAE8%255Epimgpsh_fullsize_distr.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMFjh1xp0DOdkoMsJy5ba5r97uQoMLabU20BVXXyvVQI0IsySJhdedIfO1d3Sc9ymd8anYzsGKmXBKuPl3da9JTqIP90oHcoZ-z9Wgz36-2HSM3Om1b3KkR0qMouxOnNiplFMkaYPlea22/s320/%255EB1D1EC93F7D8C7212242E22A72B1AC4F2589DA13973EE1AAE8%255Epimgpsh_fullsize_distr.jpg" width="320" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> So… here I sit once again staring at a blank page wondering what the hell I’m supposed to say. I guess I’m going to just do what I do under such circumstances… ramble.</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> <b><span style="color: orange;">Forlorn?...</span></b></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I have a neighbor who is a bartender in an upscale restaurant not far from here. When I have to get up in the middle of the night to run to the bathroom, I can often see her just coming in from work or see her moving about, long after midnight. The other night, in the wee hours of the morning, she came in with a friend in tow.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> It reminded me of the days, when I was close to her age, dragging my ass in from having bar-hopped after work. There had been times when I also would drag a friend home to keep them from driving drunk as a skunk. Those were great times, as I remember through the alcohol induced fog.</span></span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFc_x716C0QCN-yIsu3qa9AZ7L_UG2Bk9N4TXotUOz5GyHJzoXwkt79yt4kP67xIclSOvX-nTznji457x8DGuVpo3SFxqDmmVs96yS_NcR3LiVm42EZHQu0ZNxTSySxHY7gEuXqjdMo8UJ/s1600/52.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFc_x716C0QCN-yIsu3qa9AZ7L_UG2Bk9N4TXotUOz5GyHJzoXwkt79yt4kP67xIclSOvX-nTznji457x8DGuVpo3SFxqDmmVs96yS_NcR3LiVm42EZHQu0ZNxTSySxHY7gEuXqjdMo8UJ/s320/52.jpg" width="213" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> There was/is a slight pang of want there. I miss the kitchen. I miss of the closeness of working with others who understand the stresses of the job, the comradeship of your coworkers, the letting loose after a long hard night. Yeah… there is a certain intimacy when you work in a professional restaurant. There are bonds that form that you just don’t find anywhere else. And yes, I do miss that. I miss it a lot. Honestly, I’d still be doing it if my body hadn’t decided to fall apart. This whole growing old thing is a bitch, not to mention painful.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> <b><span style="color: orange;">OCD and…</span></b></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> To be honest, I’ve never really hid the fact that I have OCD. I’ve always had it but as I grow older (seems to be a theme here), it does seem to be getting worse. TAT has pointed out that there are certain things she won’t even attempt to do because she knows it won’t be the way that I want it. It isn’t like I really make a fuss about it… okay, not much of one… I hope, but there are some things that just drive me bonkers. And yes, I do realize that is a very short drive, but it does send me there.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I want my socks to be folded a certain way and they are, of course, color coordinated and they have to all be facing the same way in the drawer. My toothbrush goes in the same place and faces the same way each and every day. I place the cutlery in the drawer, lined up neatly like little soldiers ready for battle. Whenever I set the table, the plates have to all be facing the right way, each one exactly the same as the other. Napkins have to be just so too. Yeah, I have it bad. Even the remote control has to be facing the right way, in the same spot too. I know it sounds ridiculous, but it’s just the way I am. Don’t even get me started on the linen closet!</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> But something has changed a bit. I’ve started to ignore clutter, which would usually send me over the edge like a mad woman wielding a machete. Not quite sure why. Okay, that’s a lie. TAT is a clutter-bug and I think I’ve gotten used to it… or not. In all actuality, I think I’ve just gotten lazy. Of course, now that I’ve realized what it is that is going on, it’s probably going to start driving me nuts. <i>Better watch out TAT… I might just go on a house cleaning tear!</i></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> <b><span style="color: orange;">Did you know…</span></b></span></span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_Q9IXn42N4IleEgCRLBwm9resUIyhy_JeDWXhjwZtSinDrNgNY9YWNYT0W7RzXsEZCBXKs1l6UOCwsZ_mLOTad2jlBgYCIzCpRxbpFMVSAa98UtUU7W2ePV9Ojoou5LOxhJcEEI4SdYH4/s1600/tumblr_mrf6caAek71rlck16o1_1280.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_Q9IXn42N4IleEgCRLBwm9resUIyhy_JeDWXhjwZtSinDrNgNY9YWNYT0W7RzXsEZCBXKs1l6UOCwsZ_mLOTad2jlBgYCIzCpRxbpFMVSAa98UtUU7W2ePV9Ojoou5LOxhJcEEI4SdYH4/s320/tumblr_mrf6caAek71rlck16o1_1280.jpg" width="240" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Confession time: I’m an idiot when it comes to technology. Oh, and I have zero patience for it. If I can’t get it to work, it is all I can do to keep from throwing out the back door. I recently had to get a new phone. I got the new iPhone 7 Plus, mainly because it has a really super nice camera. Yep, that was the primary reason. Unfortunately, I can’t seem to get the photos off the stupid phone and onto my computer. Grrr… that so pisses me off. I finally relented and let TAT take over to get it done. She figured it out so all is good now. The downside to all that is I have to rely on her to do it.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> That leads me to my website, which is sorely in need of attention. There is so much updating to be done on it, it isn’t even funny. I hope to have that remedied in the near future. We’ll see how that goes.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> <b><span style="color: orange;">Tis the season…</span></b></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Yeah, yeah… bah humbug. I didn’t get my fun sweater that I wanted. I went so far as to see if it came in a T-shirt version, but it didn’t. As I sit here, at 7 a.m., it is a balmy 70F and humid as fuck. Good thing I didn’t get it I suppose. But it was so perfect for me. I do love a good pole dancer, and… well I really wanted it. Maybe next year they’ll come out with a T-shirt version.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> <i> I really need to find a decent strip club. I miss that.</i></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> <b><span style="color: orange;">While I’m talking about the season…</span></b></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Have you ever heard that it is better to give than to receive? I truly believe that. Believe it or not, it doesn’t have to cost you monetarily either. Giving of your time is… more genuine if you ask me. There are so many people who just need someone to talk to sometimes.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I became acutely aware of this recently.
Poor TAT has some man nearly talk her ear off one day. The guy was lonely. Of course she got to hear his life story, and since he was quite elderly, it was a long story. Something for y’all to think about maybe? Just take the time to listen to someone. It won’t hurt ya and you might even rack up some of them good Karma Coins.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> ‘Bout all I’ve got for now. Have a grrreat week, y’all.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Max
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"><br /></span></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12478374601116390008noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6013868102307208220.post-53693441902732589632016-12-11T08:14:00.001-05:002016-12-11T08:14:31.193-05:00I Feel Pretty...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwc3MpGVJU1ZMwF4t6us7-vunJf-8sMVXGWw9Q92E5VsOcC2p4h8KagjMnKhml4iDt9JbLRoF-t8XB6RzTQwBWRo7a_8dTXl5U1Nt1EGgGqwzB6rJNFzxaoRrVEfCxWdeJdmvBu5zWUggV/s1600/tumblr_o3d9i2EhgG1qfqu7go1_540.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwc3MpGVJU1ZMwF4t6us7-vunJf-8sMVXGWw9Q92E5VsOcC2p4h8KagjMnKhml4iDt9JbLRoF-t8XB6RzTQwBWRo7a_8dTXl5U1Nt1EGgGqwzB6rJNFzxaoRrVEfCxWdeJdmvBu5zWUggV/s320/tumblr_o3d9i2EhgG1qfqu7go1_540.jpg" width="227" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> So… I’m sitting here with my electric warming house shoes on. What the hell? The temperature here is 51F and my feet are cold. Oh, I still have shorts on, but… well this is a little cooler than I like it. I guess it's okay. Makes it feel a little like Christmas. I’m just glad it isn’t going to last long. It will be going to be back up in the 80’s next week. So ha!</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> <span style="color: orange;"><b>Getting a bit serious…</b></span></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I don’t know if anyone has noticed or not, but I withdrew from most things <i>social media</i>. There were so much hateful things… so many things that were negative, things I didn’t want to see. I might dip my toe in the waters and see how it is, but I’m not promising anything.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> You know, if someone asks how you are and you say, “Oh, my back hurts and I stumped my toe and my life just sucks,” more than likely, whomever you’ve just told, their eyes probably glazed over and they zoned out. How are they supposed to react to that? What are they supposed to say? “Uh… I’m sorry?” Well duh. And then they run like hell.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> “How are you?”</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> “I’m good, thank you, how are you?”</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> They don’t give a flying fuck if your toe is broken. Okay, I may care but let’s get into it later in the conversation, just don't lead off with that. But let me tell you one thing, if someone starts off a conversation with them bemoaning all their woes, I’m going to tune them right the hell out. I have enough of my own issues to take on someone else’s, thank you very much. Let’s stay positive folks… at least to start off with.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> <span style="color: orange;"><b>What else…</b></span></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Okay, as much as I hate to admit it, sometimes my sister is right. This growing old not only sucks, it’s downright painful at times. My mind says, “Yeah, you can do this!” and then my body says, “Oh the fuck you say!” Ugh… there are things I used to do with no problem. I’m all gung-ho about it and do it and then I pay for it. LOL</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Now you’d think I’d learn to take it a bit easier, but nooo… Stupid me goes right ahead and nearly kills myself. The end result is me hobbling around like an eighty-year-old man for a few days. Yeah, running a jackhammer, with that flipping Frankenstein boot on, is a prime example. I had that thing rented for 2 days and damn it, I was going to get it done. Well, I did but boy did I pay for it later. But hey, it was something that I’d wanted to do for some time, so I guess it was worth it. The only big problem was the following morning I got up outta bed… and then promptly fell into the closet. How apropos, eh? And here I thought I’d left that stupid closet decades ago. <i>See how I waited to whinge until midway through this blog?</i></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> <span style="color: orange;"><b>Did you know…</b></span></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I really hate shopping. I specifically hate shopping for clothes. However, I saw this cool Xmas sweater that I really, really wanted. I went so far as to select the size, add it to the cart and was about to check out when I was rudely reminded (of course it was TAT that was so rude) “You do realize that you live in Florida and it’s like 80(F) degrees outside.”</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Talk about your party-pooper! I mean really. Alright, she has a point. How much would I actually wear a sweater in Florida? Doesn’t make it any easier since I did want that sweater. And yes, the photo is of the sweater I wanted. I guess I’ll look at is as having saved $40.00! Bah Humbug.</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> <span style="color: orange;"><b>I Feel Pretty…</b></span></span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Do not ask why I thought of this… just did. I’m thinking it’s because I need a haircut and beard trim. I hope you’ll take the time to watch this little video. It is so me at the moment. Yeah, I can be pretty nuts sometimes.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> <span style="color: orange;"><b>Moving right along…</b></span></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: orange; font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"><b> Um… drawing a blank here. I think I may need more coffee. Be right back…
Ahhh, more better. Now I remember where I was going with this...</b></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> A grrreat big THANK YOU to all those who have donated books for the Zebra Coalition book drive. I’ve received so many great books. I’m sure the postman is wondering what the hell is going on. Of course the UPS man is probably wondering the same thing.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> There is still plenty of room on the new bookshelf for more books, so keep ‘em coming y’all. If you have a favorite Y/A book, please send it on. If you are an author who has a Y/A book, please, donate it to this good cause. If you know of a Y/A author, please let them know about this project. How important is reading to you? Don’t you think that these LBGT youths want books they can relate to? Of course they do. So… take your Grinch pants off (of course you can always just strip naked if you want, I don’t care.) and think of the kids. Tis the season ya know.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Okay, I think that’s about all I got this week. I think I’m going to go find something to do that won’t put me in a wheelchair.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Have a grrreat day, y’all,</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Max
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"><br /></span></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12478374601116390008noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6013868102307208220.post-56550727057266720232016-12-04T08:41:00.000-05:002016-12-04T08:44:09.285-05:00It's a RAMBLE!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2aocxgZ1yBXjWJvUfQy27TdsqILsGjGjGGC5YRtdjSjWhKwfDtOT2XGOCM55AowOZL5KJRz-nwgnNE8MjkvJoCz5xy72RwE-rGaahR3Khl_vTJ4zwfslKe6ARj_aWw50ODQ9LXfQbrTwm/s1600/f259228513631b7fd87ebee3d162cece.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2aocxgZ1yBXjWJvUfQy27TdsqILsGjGjGGC5YRtdjSjWhKwfDtOT2XGOCM55AowOZL5KJRz-nwgnNE8MjkvJoCz5xy72RwE-rGaahR3Khl_vTJ4zwfslKe6ARj_aWw50ODQ9LXfQbrTwm/s320/f259228513631b7fd87ebee3d162cece.jpg" width="213" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> <b><span style="color: orange;">So…</span></b> Once again I’m sitting here looking at a blank page, not knowing what the hell to blog about. Sometimes I can get it done during the week but it didn’t happen this week. I was busy and then I couldn’t think of anything and then… well just didn’t get one done. So guess what? I’m going to go by the seat of my pants and just <i>RAMBLE!</i></span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> <span style="color: orange;"><b>It’s all about the Sutton’s…</b></span></span></span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEithFtfUMytF9WDxBzbA4p_R8c_dtbmkdWCNJdx4d23ke-f0ENHEQq97vMhpYEMU9KCv5OwocvZw131ybhAjK2p-OmeZZ9RhsAqU_1P5ShcT0jVsKLqdgyjUR2zbgNkrPuTjVQuo3KZUtGn/s1600/XM-3--for-ARe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEithFtfUMytF9WDxBzbA4p_R8c_dtbmkdWCNJdx4d23ke-f0ENHEQq97vMhpYEMU9KCv5OwocvZw131ybhAjK2p-OmeZZ9RhsAqU_1P5ShcT0jVsKLqdgyjUR2zbgNkrPuTjVQuo3KZUtGn/s1600/XM-3--for-ARe.jpg" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I woke up this morning to a very nice surprise. Christmas Memories 3: Home Sweet Home was voted book of the week on the Love Bytes poll. Thank you everyone. I think y’all like this little series. I have to admit, I do like writing about them… when they decide to talk that is. There are a lot of good characters in those books that I do like a lot. Nice warm fuzzies for the holidays is never a bad thing.</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> <b><span style="color: orange;">Tis the Season…</span></b></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I did get my Christmas lights on the house and one wreath done. I think they came out alright. I’ll try and get some photos this week and get them posted. We’ll see what y’all think. TAT likes multicolored lights, so that’s what I went with. At least she didn’t want to make a Christmas tree out of beer cans, like some of those other Aussies have. I should count my blessings I guess. But then she doesn’t like beer, so maybe I should be glad she didn’t want them out of wine bottles!</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> The tree is up, but still naked. I might be able to get to that this afternoon, we’ll see. I may need several adult beverages to get it done though. Hell, it might even involve some carols to get me back in the mood. It’s kinda hard to get in the mood when it’s 80F outside. LOL Yeah, I do love living in sunny Flo-rid-ia!</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Oh, and I do have all of my shopping done. Didn’t take me that long either. I pretty much knew what I was getting and where, so it wasn’t all that difficult. A lot of it I got off Amazon so I could make sure that a part of my purchases went to the Zebra Coalition. Remember to use Amazon Smile so that you’re helping others while giving. A wonderful thing in my book.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> <span style="color: orange;"><b>What else…</b></span></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Yes, I’m still working on several books at once, although one in particular is going pretty well. I’m more than halfway done with it I’d say. Looking at a release date of sometime in April I think. Will have to see how things progress. I was giving out hints and some have come pretty damn close. It’s nothing too heavy. After finishing Life After Living I needed a break from the hard subjects. I can only take so much of that ya know. The next one, well, it isn’t quite as difficult a subject, but one that isn’t exactly what I’d call fluffy, so that’s been on the back burner for a bit. All in all, the writing is going pretty well.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> <b><span style="color: orange;">I special shout out…</span></b></span></span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggZxZPkOQDy1kDPVg8v8F5hen8WzKWKv5m-VnSqzchiJndJmNAInUJUQyYQAGdDW0sJMTddUoz775Z2yFjo-Q2RzbqEiUM-WuDsK78LCQ0o0w6k-XJFRIdAFi60GHuhvBSzcZnhAJ-JSLd/s1600/IMG_1520.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggZxZPkOQDy1kDPVg8v8F5hen8WzKWKv5m-VnSqzchiJndJmNAInUJUQyYQAGdDW0sJMTddUoz775Z2yFjo-Q2RzbqEiUM-WuDsK78LCQ0o0w6k-XJFRIdAFi60GHuhvBSzcZnhAJ-JSLd/s320/IMG_1520.JPG" width="240" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> No, I don’t mean that I’m going to buy the next round either. I wanted to say a little something to Ms. Theresa May: Thank you. All this week, I’ve had that silly theme song from the show Flipper stuck in my head and I don’t mind at all. That one day in Sawtell was one of the best days ever. I had such a wonderful time. I’ve got to say, that was a big highlight for my time spent in Oz. So, a great big hug and lots of love your way.</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> <span style="color: orange;"><b>I’m going to cut it off here…</b></span></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Just remember that there are others who need a hand up this holiday season. So many people have been left homeless because of the fires in East Tennessee, my home state. My heart goes out to them. Thanks to Dolly Parton and her gracious nature in helping them out. However, there are always those in need. Keep them in mind while you’re out there in the big bad world. Never hurts to rack up some of those good Karma Coins.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Have a grrreat week, y’all,</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Max
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"><br /></span></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12478374601116390008noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6013868102307208220.post-58111922226223285282016-11-27T09:26:00.001-05:002016-11-27T09:26:35.484-05:00Ramble, Ramble, Ramble...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd-3VAhTx2ztr-oNrN3rWTfmlfjWxKe8-I6iyWtcaZiiNXNzfV58OzLkFDxJ5o-OwoBrkJcpHnlSKDL8LQD-jbaKQnweVvEUAv5yWI8r3RHK4NG47MpbOyYMeQtJJNoNYIB15CxztOSCS-/s1600/old-age-retirement-police-policemen-streetwalkers-mobility_scooters-prostitute-jdon448_low.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd-3VAhTx2ztr-oNrN3rWTfmlfjWxKe8-I6iyWtcaZiiNXNzfV58OzLkFDxJ5o-OwoBrkJcpHnlSKDL8LQD-jbaKQnweVvEUAv5yWI8r3RHK4NG47MpbOyYMeQtJJNoNYIB15CxztOSCS-/s320/old-age-retirement-police-policemen-streetwalkers-mobility_scooters-prostitute-jdon448_low.jpg" width="320" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> So… here I sit once again, staring at a blank page, my mind just as blank. Okay, to be honest I’m as sore as an ol’ whore’s butt after a hard Saturday night. That’s alright though, it’s a good kind of sore. I’ve been able to spend a lot of time outside working in the garden, but my mind… still somewhat blank. So guess what? Yep, I’m just gonna ramble on a bit.</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: orange; font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"><b> Um… Oh look, a book…</b></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> In case you didn’t know, I did put out a little book this past week. Yep, Christmas Memories 3: Home Sweet Home is out and available from your favorite book retailers. I was a little surprised at how popular the first one was (is) and a little less surprised when Christmas Memories 2 surged forward. I do however get it why people like the Suttons. I mean, who wouldn’t want them as a family. This time… I think the story took a major step forward. I’m not sure if there is going to be any more from this family, but I’ll welcome their return if they decided to pay me a visit. To me, these stories are like being wrapped up in a warm fuzzy blanket. Hope y’all enjoy them.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: orange; font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"><b> Oh wow…</b></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I was watching TV with TAT (That Aussie Tart) this week. To be honest, I can’t even remember what it was we were watching. What I do remember was the story line, the major plot holes and how ridiculous it all became. I made the comment… “If I put this crap in a book I would be nailed to a cross and then it would be set on fire.” Why? Pfft… Insta-Love to start with. Do you know just how many times I’ve had my big ass raked over the coals for this? But it seems Hallmark can get away with it, no problem. As I’ve said time and time again; a guy will often know within thirty seconds if he is into you or not. Case closed. Not sure why, but it happens. And here’s a news flash for you: It happened to me this past summer. I was totally mesmerized by a man in five minutes. Had he asked me to marry him that night I’d have said yes! Hell, he could ask me today and I’d say the same thing.</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> The plot holes were so damned big you could have driven a Peterbilt through ‘em. I’m really careful about those kinds of things, mainly, because they are a pet peeve of mine. I mean, come on, who is writing this stuff and why in the hell is no one checking it? As I told TAT, after giving her the dialogue before it was even spoken, I could write this drivel. And it was just that… total drivel. Grrr…</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> <b><span style="color: orange;"> Oh <i>hell </i>no…</span></b></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I’ve been asked a few times if I took part in Black Friday. Uhhh… NO! You couldn’t pay me enough to get into all that mess. First off, I hate going to any mall. Okay, I take that back. I loved going to the malls in Australia, but they are very different. I mean, they have real honest-to-god butcher shops in theirs! I do love me some bacon. But here, in the States… not a snowballs chance in hell.</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Let me point out… I save a whole lot more money staying my ass home that dragging it out into the madness of Black Friday. Sure, y’all may have saved a lot of money shopping on things… stuff, but my money is still in my pocket, so you tell me who saved more. HA!</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I will admit though, I did do a little online shopping. There were a few deals I’d been waiting for AND what I did get also put some money towards my charity. Yep, I sat here, sipping my coffee, my comfy house shoes on, did my little bit of shopping and didn’t even swear once. I figured I made out like a bandit. So I did spend a little bit, but I saved even more by not having to buy alcohol.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: orange; font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"><b> Let’s talk snow…</b></span></span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu1IqSkmtLrFRw8Tg0WMopxdILxrVrt4UzttCuA1fG0LlaMbcHPm3F-1IWvRkpKUtcRxm60kpZphdXRr4GUIy_B4slsjAIi7NW6eejmG33RL2Eh-kmlbpmtshdJZEH38jfxHiRgkHi5h1r/s1600/naked-snow-shoveler-snowguy01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="198" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu1IqSkmtLrFRw8Tg0WMopxdILxrVrt4UzttCuA1fG0LlaMbcHPm3F-1IWvRkpKUtcRxm60kpZphdXRr4GUIy_B4slsjAIi7NW6eejmG33RL2Eh-kmlbpmtshdJZEH38jfxHiRgkHi5h1r/s200/naked-snow-shoveler-snowguy01.jpg" width="200" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> This is for you Mo-Mo: No, I do not like snow. No, I don’t ever want to see snow. The only snow I want to see is on TV or a Hallmark card. Been there done that. I don’t like my feet getting cold or wet. Actually, it becomes really painful to tell the truth. Another reason I moved to sunny Flo-rid-ia. Snow is a baaaaad four letter word. I think hell is actually Siberia. So for those of you who like that nasty wet stuff, more power to ya. Just don’t expect me to get all excited about it. Me, I’ll continue to sit here in my shorts and T-shirt, the doors and windows open, playing in the dirt while you shovel snow. ‘Nuff said.</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> <i>Side Note: I’d rather peel my nuts up off my leather chair than try and pry them away from my tonsils, thank you very much. Just thought I’d throw that out there.</i></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"><span style="color: orange;"><i> <b> </b></i></span><b><span style="color: orange;">Let’s talk books…</span></b></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I was fortunate to come from a family of readers. My mother, grandmother and sister would read to me most every night. Of course, this is probably why I can’t really listen to audio books. Talk about a sleeping pill. Puts me right out. The side benefit was that when I started reading on my own, I found it easy. I was reading well beyond my grade level which pleased my teachers, but also put them in a bit of a quandary. They didn’t know what to do with me. While I could read on a grade level 3 when I was only five years old, I couldn’t add for shit. Hell, I still can’t. Don’t ask me to balance a checkbook! Numbers escape me. Always have.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Personally, I think that reading is a way to escape for a little while. Go on a vacation, an adventure; learn about different cultures and people. Who wouldn’t like a mini-vacation? I also think that all kids should have the opportunity to read about people like themselves. I remember as a young man when I stumbled upon Gordon Merrick and then Armistead Maupin. Then it was Felice Picano who took me on a wild mind twisting murder mystery. What do all these authors have in common? They all wrote gay characters. This was a first for me and what an impact it had.
This is why I am doing a book drive for the Zebra Coalition. I’m begging for Y/A books so that they will have a library for kids between the ages of 13 and 24. If you are an author, or have a favorite author who writes in this genre, please contact me or have an author contact me. What a great gift this would be for the next generation, don’t you think? So, please take the time to reach out and make this happen.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> <span style="color: orange;"><b> Tis the Season…</b></span></span></span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXw3BnwXkrCflzk8SFcOGud2uRWTWIu-yir49Yjpwol3HOKRZgRlIWSotRNIzLOPt1zTpjiCuJFvHBT65apPGUWaUhos4p2QbpRs2UaqUf6mOvNV36_JkRII3k_jY7QQtppwoqBaEl0k_M/s1600/HSZ_P3_hairymen-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXw3BnwXkrCflzk8SFcOGud2uRWTWIu-yir49Yjpwol3HOKRZgRlIWSotRNIzLOPt1zTpjiCuJFvHBT65apPGUWaUhos4p2QbpRs2UaqUf6mOvNV36_JkRII3k_jY7QQtppwoqBaEl0k_M/s320/HSZ_P3_hairymen-2.jpg" width="213" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> With Thanksgiving 2016 now history, it is time to turn our attention to the upcoming holidays. I remember my grandmother during this time of year and how quiet she would become at times. I didn’t understand it so much at the time but I sure do now. She was one of those people who had a heart as big as the whole outdoors. She would fret about those who were less fortunate. I guess I come by it honest, because I often have those thoughts.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> My grandmother raised nine children, a lot of it during the great depression. Even then, she thought of others. She always found a way to give to someone else. It may not have been monetarily, but she always managed to give something.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I’m going to ask that of you now. As I’ve said before, I’ve adopted the Zebra Coalition as my charity and they have a wishlist on Amazon. (Uh… they kinda messed up, so if you go to their wish list, there is nothing showing, but if you click on their name, it comes up.) Anyway, there isn’t a lot on their list, and most all of it is under $20.00. With a little help, I think we could make this list disappear. Most of the items are to stock their pantry while they have their afternoon “Drop In”. Kids hang out there after school in the afternoons, so a lot of things are snacks and drink type things. Razors and shampoo are also on their list for their emergency shelter program. There are less than twenty items on this list. Let’s see if we can’t make it go away. What’cha say? OH, and if by chance you go and there is nothing, you can always check out their needs list on their website.</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"><a href="http://zebrayouth.org/get-involved/our-needs-list/" target="_blank">Zebra Coalition Wish List</a> </span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Wow, I got rather chatty with having nothing much to say, so I’ll stick a fork in it and call it done. Have a grrreat week, y’all.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Max
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"><br /></span></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12478374601116390008noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6013868102307208220.post-61976195544306240412016-11-20T08:30:00.001-05:002016-11-20T08:30:55.623-05:00A Blast From the Past...<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> So… yesterday, while dirt digging, I tried to think of something to blog about today. There are a few things I’d like to pass along to y’all, but I also wanted something funny. I think we all need something to at laugh about now.</span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI81i71prAQ7DDkjkIrBuJkHV_hgplriyfOERmakFnedCk2O1psdqsaUjofTeS7IFRqIIN5hztPrPE87ceScWFrMTRs6yelukmZugmFqwlhQQLB4w3QhaXjpDTfjDVlpEVlJiT2BdVtHR7/s1600/cock+exposure+up+shorts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI81i71prAQ7DDkjkIrBuJkHV_hgplriyfOERmakFnedCk2O1psdqsaUjofTeS7IFRqIIN5hztPrPE87ceScWFrMTRs6yelukmZugmFqwlhQQLB4w3QhaXjpDTfjDVlpEVlJiT2BdVtHR7/s320/cock+exposure+up+shorts.jpg" width="255" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Peek-A-Boo</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> <b> <span style="color: orange;">A little story about my friend Alan…</span></b></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I’ve known Alan most of my life. He’s been a constant source of fun and entertainment as well as a great support person. He was always there when I needed him, but for now, I want to tell you about a time when I laughed so hard I actually peed my pants.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Picture it… (I feel like Sofia from the Golden Girls) Atlanta 1981. It was hotter than hades, and the weekend of the Hotlanta Raft race. It was a weekend of hot gay men, hot weather and hot times.</span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7E6Ullc1_zalbAX-n39LlsKa__mWSudU88kD1OJEH8LsF8W-q4a2Tmb5YouvV2zWfWRf_N1xSejSR-J_W2F0o7DFpWjGWfO_HrDgkRxyn01Ma09PUFFXlWFME3QP3XsxOZw5jhQFabRgJ/s1600/Fy5T83p.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7E6Ullc1_zalbAX-n39LlsKa__mWSudU88kD1OJEH8LsF8W-q4a2Tmb5YouvV2zWfWRf_N1xSejSR-J_W2F0o7DFpWjGWfO_HrDgkRxyn01Ma09PUFFXlWFME3QP3XsxOZw5jhQFabRgJ/s320/Fy5T83p.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On the River</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> <b><i><span style="color: orange;"> Note: This was how Atlanta got the nickname Hotlanta. It was the gay mecca for gay men and there was no hotter place in the country that Hotlanta during raft race weekend.</span></i></b></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Well, Alan being his true fun self, decided that a little MDA would be a good idea to keep things moving along. That was his drug of choice back then. Don’t judge. <i>It was the time of drugs, sex and disco!</i> He and a bunch of friends had gone all out doing their little decorating bit for their raft. Alan was more of the engineer than decorator. He is the one gay man I know who never got past Gay 101. He couldn’t identify a color to save his poor little gay heart. I swear, he couldn’t tell the difference between white and antique cream if his life depended on it. It’s been an ongoing joke for years.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> The big event was Saturday. Unfortunately, I had to work lunch that day, and yes I did try to get out of it. But it was either take off Saturday and do the race or work Sunday, and I knew I’d be in no condition to work the day after the big parties going on, so I suffered and worked Saturday lunch. Oh, and saved myself from having to buy sunscreen.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> <b><span style="color: orange;"> Party… Party… Party…</span></b></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Back in the ‘80’s, it was party till you dropped or a hot man dropped his pants. Okay, that may have happened, and then you went back to the party afterwards. That is the way Alan saw it, as did so many others. I caught up with him and a few other friends around 2 a.m. at the Cove, a.k.a., the Cave.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> It was a gay bar in Atlanta that never closed. It was one of the few that had been grandfathered in, and on weekends like this one… it was packed to the gills.
There were different sections in the massive building. A game room, a more quiet bar area and a huge dance floor. Because Atlanta is so flippin’ hot in the summer, they divided up those section and the doorways were covered in those thick plastic strip curtain type things. You know what I’m talking about: those things that are normally used in front of walk-in coolers when the doors are left open.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Anyway, Alan, who’d been in town since Friday afternoon, hadn’t slept, which wasn’t that uncommon whenever he was in town. But here he was, early Sunday morning and he was in rare form. Okay, it wasn’t all that rare for him back in those days. To say that he wasn’t sober would be a major understatement. Alan was making his way back in from the outdoor patio… I happen to know what or who he was doing out there, but on his way back to the dance bar, he missed the doorway completely. How he did that I still don’t know, but he did, twice.</span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgAt9JvcW49Oz8IPXRrsgUaVYC4wmEam-ZUXwlglY1XJubzwmTcC3Mvz6V2QSOKaEIANAft28i8mb4wNLILJHRdpVbPngpgzWu2Pp9XFgeiOy8fuOlzSc_ghyphenhyphenfn6p0e7iYzE9N_SnOTUh5/s1600/pic1_balls_out_short_shorts_001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgAt9JvcW49Oz8IPXRrsgUaVYC4wmEam-ZUXwlglY1XJubzwmTcC3Mvz6V2QSOKaEIANAft28i8mb4wNLILJHRdpVbPngpgzWu2Pp9XFgeiOy8fuOlzSc_ghyphenhyphenfn6p0e7iYzE9N_SnOTUh5/s320/pic1_balls_out_short_shorts_001.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">No, this isn't Alan.</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Alan missed that doorway be at least two feet. He bounced off the wall and fell on his ass. Being the typical good Southern raised man, he got up, dusted off his rear and adjusted his shirt, had he had one on. It took him a few minutes to realize that he wasn’t wearing one. Hell, the only thing he had on was a pair of daisy duke cutoffs that were so short his nuts were constantly falling out. It was rather funny to watch him push them back up whenever he had to leave wherever we happened to be.
It was the look on his face as he struggled to put himself back together that was the icing on the cake. It was even funnier when he attempted to go through the doorway and do the exact same thing all over again. I and a small group of friends from Tennessee stood and watched him do it and laughed our asses off. The second time, when he’d finally gotten himself put together, as much as he could I guess, flipped us the bird and finally got through the door.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Later that day, sometime after one in the afternoon, post brunch, I saw my friends off to make the four hour drive home to <i>Knoxvegas</i>. It was another epic weekend. Alan was in the backseat of that blue Volvo, already asleep with a thread of drool hanging off his chin and a big smiled plastered on his face. Yep, he’d had another great time in Hotlanta.</span></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Backstreet Atlanta, another Party Central Location</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I have so many good memories of Alan and the rest of my friends from those happy days. Days before AIDS took most of them. How he and I survived is a real miracle. I may have to share more memories of him and our adventures another time.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> <span style="color: orange;"><b> Oh yeah…</b></span></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Ooops, I almost forgot. Damn, I have a novella coming out this coming week. Duh, sometimes I really am blonde all the way to the white meat. Yep, A Christmas Memory 3: Home Sweet Home, comes out Tuesday, November 22. For those of you who like to visit the Sutton family this time of year won’t be disappointed. They are all back and doing what they do best: be a family. One of the beta readers I use said he thought this was the best one yet. I hope y’all agree.</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> <span style="color: orange;"><b>What else…</b></span></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> TAT and I went and did our shopping for Toys for Tots. We each got some fun stuff. I found these great metal trucks for about $10.00. I got two of them. I think they’d be great for boys. I know I loved ‘em when I was a kid. I also got two Frozen Dolls for the girls. I make a point of doing Toys for Tots each year. I know that they stay local and kids deserve to have a decent Christmas, no matter their circumstances. I hope that everyone will participate in this great cause.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> <span style="color: orange;"><b> A note here…</b></span></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> As you know, I have adopted The Zebra Coalition as my local charity. I still try and keep up with Lost n Found in Atlanta, but I live here now, so I feel I should support a local charity. I have visited their facility and met with their Director and Volunteer Coordinator and I’m pleased to say that I think they are doing a great job. They have their fingers in just about every agency in the area that they can count on for support and to help young gay youth find their way.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> What I noticed while I was there was their pitiful little library. I’m trying to take care of that. With the help from Lynn Schmitz, I’ve begun a book drive for YA books to help them along. The director and I also talked about perhaps getting some gay history type books to put in there, but one step at a time. If you are an author who has a YA book, please contact me if you would like to donate. If you are a reader and have a favorite author, please ask them to send some of their work my way. I think that books that are a positive reinforcement to our gay youth are very important.</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"><a href="http://zebrayouth.org/" target="_blank">The Zebra Coalition</a></span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: orange; font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"><b> The gift of giving…</b></span></span></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> While you’re doing your online holiday shopping this year, why not take the time to sign up for the Amazon Smile program. You can choose from many worthy charities and they benefit from every eligible purchase you make. Every little bit helps ya know.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> <span style="color: orange;"><b>And while I’m at it…</b></span></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> If you want to help The Zebra Coalition, you can pick something from their wish list. If you’ve designated them as your prime charity, you may need to click on their name to get the list to come up. I think they may have put their list in the wrong spot, but you can still see what they have listed. There are things there for as little as $10.00 on up, but most under $20.00.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> One of the things that I really like about this program is that they give kids a place to gather and hang out after school. Almost every day of the week they open their doors and these gay youth gather to talk, watch TV, play video games and just basically be kids. It is a safe place for them, which is a major thing in my book. They really do like the snacks and drinks that they have on their wish list.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: orange; font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"><b> And…</b></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Now I need to get my big butt in gear and see if I can’t get a little more writing done before I head out to play in the dirt. I’ve really been on a good writing jag lately and I’d like to keep that momentum going. But before I go… you know what I’m going to say next, don’t you? Yep. Go get you some of them good Karma Coins. Do something nice for someone else today. Sometimes it doesn’t cost a thing!</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Have a grrreat week, y’all.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Max
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12478374601116390008noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6013868102307208220.post-58690940434697330322016-11-13T10:29:00.000-05:002016-11-13T10:29:43.499-05:00No Words...<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> So… I’ve tried since Wednesday to write this week’s blog, but I just can’t seem to get anything written down that isn’t… well, basically depressing. So instead, I give you two of my favorite things!</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Just remember that we all have things in common. Treat each other with kindness and try and do something nice for someone else.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Have a grrreat week, y’all.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Max
</span></span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12478374601116390008noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6013868102307208220.post-82542617232658210952016-11-06T10:52:00.000-05:002016-11-06T10:52:03.489-05:00Confession Time... I was a Bad, Bad, Boy!<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> So…another week has passed and it has been a busy one for me. There is always so much to get done it seems. Now that TAT is back, it is even more so. But… such is life, I don’t really mind.</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I’m glad to announce that the writing is going really well. So well in fact, that I’m surprising myself. This current WIP is practically writing itself. That’s a big fat yay! I don’t know why I had such a difficult time getting the last Christmas Memories done, but it was a problem child. Not to worry, it is done and it seems to be a good story. I will soon let you know when the publish date is as well as the cover reveal. I have no doubt that it will be another great cover by the talented A.J. Corza.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Confession time…</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Okay, now I’ve talked about how I hurt my foot and y’all have lived through my bemoaning the use of crutches. I’ve also said how much I wanted to be outside and playing in the dirt. I may have misled y’all just a teeny tiny little bit. Yes, I did hurt my foot. Yeah, I did a pretty good job on it too. And yes, I was on crutches for what seemed like forever. That god-awful Frankenstein boot was in place as well. But… I cheated a bit. I went against the doctor’s advice and went and dug around in the dirt anyway.</span></span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz1zx-slolYm9Am1CmqTSnHuaVrBHPbITJ9zURX7mJTn5-mj7T9DS8zTs8e8mIPIgMJRDhad3SPvx3BsDbPOAG6ph7e7g5nensRwk5v1BZ4Ufyyh_PTBianWBZwkK74acg56lAD3YEK9tk/s1600/358.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz1zx-slolYm9Am1CmqTSnHuaVrBHPbITJ9zURX7mJTn5-mj7T9DS8zTs8e8mIPIgMJRDhad3SPvx3BsDbPOAG6ph7e7g5nensRwk5v1BZ4Ufyyh_PTBianWBZwkK74acg56lAD3YEK9tk/s320/358.JPG" width="240" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Damn, I hate having to be honest sometimes. Fuck it… I not only played in the dirt I played with power tools too! Yes, that is a jackhammer you see. Guilty as charged.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> There was a project I wanted to get done on the house from the moment that I saw it. Yeah, I know. It could have waited, but I wanted to surprise TAT and I also wanted it done. I’m not always the most patient of souls and when I want something done, I tend to just buckle down and get it done. So… that is what I did. I’ll put the rest of the pictures up on Tumblr if y’all want to really see the entire project. I have to say, I’m really pleased at the finished result. Well, finished up to this point. I have a few more things that I’d like to do, but this is fairly close to the finished project. I’m already planning out what else I want to get done in the yard. I just can’t seem to help myself.</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Back to the writing for a bit…</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I recently had a beta reader tell me that whenever they read one of my stories they got hungry. Uh… sorry? I guess I do tend to write about food but hey… I’m a foodie, what can I say. Cooking and food have been such a big part of my life that I can’t just ignore it. I tend to write what I know, and I know food, so it’s going to go into my writing. So might I suggest that you get one of your favorite snacks ready if you decide to read one of my books. Sorry, but that’s just the way I work.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Oh… how about this…</span></span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzQq6q1GLRGcD1c7nMvE5-EY_y_N4X7I_zdwL8DoX4j4lAqXBx8p0zNZ8FXOOPEiwvXtbTUbseWNWlMJVLbyUnDPb93D4EoPQVEqq6oxpZhNPcDDt0u2t8WCxFdj6g98nBMjdLqP0lCmdb/s1600/hotchef4a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzQq6q1GLRGcD1c7nMvE5-EY_y_N4X7I_zdwL8DoX4j4lAqXBx8p0zNZ8FXOOPEiwvXtbTUbseWNWlMJVLbyUnDPb93D4EoPQVEqq6oxpZhNPcDDt0u2t8WCxFdj6g98nBMjdLqP0lCmdb/s320/hotchef4a.jpg" width="213" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> What if I were to put together a little recipe video with one of those hunky chefs? I think I could get behind that… and the chef of course. What’cha think? Don’t know that if that will ever happen, but stranger things have happened. Hmm… makes me think, which might hurt. For all of those who think that is a good idea, please leave a comment and I’ll see what I can do. If I get a big enough response, I’ll go for it. BUT… I gotta get a lot of comments so I can approach someone to get it done. I’ll also take suggestions about what chef you might like to see. So share this post and get those comments in.</span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge7dr2kYLB75e6cpGoKS4zgKO2M1A1ElO_kO8pj1fJiM9wsijBiLQnoXH5QlFsc02ypgLCCHuWkb0v70ofV1lZwHyMbbQX1-aZ4YRdg1eKtih8yjcevSGoiMiD7BVrNBm3zZ0I1aLrDPM5/s1600/download.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge7dr2kYLB75e6cpGoKS4zgKO2M1A1ElO_kO8pj1fJiM9wsijBiLQnoXH5QlFsc02ypgLCCHuWkb0v70ofV1lZwHyMbbQX1-aZ4YRdg1eKtih8yjcevSGoiMiD7BVrNBm3zZ0I1aLrDPM5/s320/download.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Maybe one of these guys?</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"><br /> What else…</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I’ve been giving out hints about my current work in progress. I can’t help myself. When I get excited about a story, I want to share. I’m awful, I know. Such a tease, but it is fun. I think someone actually called me evil. Yeah, okay… I know. But… yeah, I am. LOL However I think some readers get a kick out of it. I will tell y’all this much… it involves food and music, two things that I really do have a great love of and a little bit of knowledge of. I might put a link up of a performance of music or a recipe or something that pertains to the book. If you pay attention, you’ll learn a lot about what I’m doing at the moment or where the story might be going. So just a bit of a heads up on that. Maybe we’ll make a game of it. Hey, there might even be some free giveaways in the future. Ha! I bet that got your attention.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Moving right along…</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I did a few things over the week that helped some people out. I got a nice smile from a lady that made my day. It was something to simple and didn’t cost me a thing except a little effort. Did you do something for someone this week? I bet you did.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> The end of the year is fast approaching. It’s time to get as many of those good Karma Coins into your bank as you can! You can do it! I have faith in all of you. So go out and do something wonderful for someone else. It will always come back to you.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Have a grrreat week, y’all.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Max
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12478374601116390008noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6013868102307208220.post-38740276154991893382016-10-30T09:09:00.000-04:002016-10-30T09:09:54.400-04:00Happy Halloweenie!<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> So… I’m sitting here wearing… well never mind that part, but it is finally cooling off a bit here in sunny Flo-rid-ia. It’s not as cool as it would be normally for this time of year, but cool enough to where I’m not sweating my ass off! Must be time for… MUWHAhahaha… <b><span style="color: orange;">Halloween!</span></b></span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Yep, it’s that time of year again that when you walk into a grocery store and there is a huge display of candy. Yeah, that’s really helping my diet… NOT! Actually, I could pass on most of that junk, but there are a few of my favorites there. I do love a snickers bar; especially the dark chocolate ones. I’ve been good so far. I’ve passed them right by. LOL</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> <b> <span style="color: orange;">A quick update…</span></b></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> As many of you know, I fell five weeks ago and managed to sprain my foot/ankle and then, being the most talented and graceful of human beings, managed to break my foot as well. Yeah, it’s been so much fun… again, not. Well, I managed to ditch the stupid crutches last week and finally, the stupid Frankenstein boot this week! YAY! Yeah, the foot is a bit sore, and the doc said it would be for a while. I still need to use the cane, which I’ll more than likely have to continue to use for the rest of my life, but at least I can move about and carry coffee without most of it ending up on the floor. So, double YAY!</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> A great big thank you to all those who sent me well wishes, cards and gifts. They were greatly appreciated. The big problem was, I had a hard time getting to the mail box and the mail man wasn’t quite nice enough to bring it to the door, even though he knew what was going on. Imagine that? Grrr….</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> <b><span style="color: orange;"> I’m so ashamed… </span></b></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I fell off the wagon again. Yeah, it wasn’t pretty either. I came very close to hanging black cloth over the mirrors so I wouldn’t see my shame. There are times I just can’t resist. It’s like I have to have it. I have no self-control sometimes. It is my drug of choice I guess. I’ve yet to find a twelve-step program for my addiction. Am I that strange? Surely there must be another person out there that has the same problem! Oh the shame, the shame.</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Yes, of course I’m talking about milk. Can you believe I drank an entire gallon in one sitting? Yeah, I did. (hanging head in shame.) I couldn’t help it. It was there. It was cold. It called to me. It was teasing me. I could hear it calling to me from the frig… “You know you want me. You desire me… I am here.” I’m not going to mention the entire package of Tim Tams that went with it. So much for the diet. Ugh…</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> <b><span style="color: orange;"> Moving right along…</span></b></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> The good news is I finally finished this latest installment of Christmas Memories. Go me! Look for it soon: <i><b>A Christmas Memory 3: Home Sweet Home</b></i>. All the regular characters are there. Maggie Sutton is still the powerhouse she always was and I did add a few new characters. I hope you like it. I’m not sure why I struggled with it so, but there were times it was like pulling teeth from a mule from the back end. However, it’s done and I can now move on to the other 1, 2, 3, 4 stories I’ve got going on.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> <span style="color: orange;"><b> The other good news is…</b></span></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I got the rights back to <b><i>P.O.W.</i></b> from MLR. I’ve had it re-edited and a fantastic new cover for it. A.J. Corza, who does all my covers, is pure genius. We’ve gotten to know each other so well, that I just give her the basic synopsis and tell her to go for it. She always comes through for me. She is a true artists and it shows each time she does a cover and that isn’t just mine either.
Anyway, keep an eye out for that one soon.</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> <i><span style="color: orange;"> What else…</span></i></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I’ve been dying to get outside and dig in the dirt. With this weather being so nice, it has been killing me to be stuck inside. There are so many projects I want to get done. I’m hoping that I can get back to a more normal schedule and have time to do some of them. Maybe by this time next week I’ll have my herb garden in. That would be so awesome. I do miss not having fresh herbs to cook with. They do make such a difference.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I guess that’s about all I have for this week. Take care of one another. Do something nice for someone, not matter how small. Always remember that we all have more in common than we have differences. A hand up doesn’t mean a hand out. Go get some of those good Karma Coins, everyone.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Have a grrreat week y'all, </span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Max</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Oh, I almost forgot... if you're looking for a a little something to read while the little monsters are visiting, why not give The V Unit a try. Like Vampires? Like hot hunky Marines? I smooshed 'em together. Available at your favorite book retailer.</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/V-Unit-Max-Vos-ebook/dp/B00JU79N8Y/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1477820794&sr=8-1&keywords=The+V+Unit" target="_blank">BUY LINK</a></span></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12478374601116390008noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6013868102307208220.post-7010607201730650762016-10-23T08:25:00.000-04:002016-10-23T08:25:00.116-04:00Okay... Now What?<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> So… here I sit… again, staring at a blank page. Now what? Well I’ll be damned if I know. I have nothing real exciting going on. Of course… sitting on my big butt with my foot up is part of the issue. One thing that I have been able to do is catch up on some things on TV and some reading.</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> What I’ve been reading…</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Well, I tore through a bunch of M/M books while I was still in Australia. I think I read just about every Aussie themed book I could. Of course, TAT (The Aussie Tart) had a lot of those, which made it easy. I mean, while there, why not. It was nice to have an actual book in my hands, I admit.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Then I decided to take a break from M/M and went to some of my other favorite authors. I went on a tear and read some Anne Rice and Clive Cussler. It was like a breath of fresh air for me. It was something that I needed I think. It gave my brain a break from not only gay themed books, but from romance as well. Okay, Anne Rice does tend to lean a little on the romance, but not all that much. It is more of an underlying theme.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> The one thing I came away from while on this reading binge was that there are so many styles and voices in my head that I need to listen to more. I think every writer needs to be a reader, and I’ve always said that. I think that I need to spread my reading habits around more. Get out of the M/M from time to time and let my mind wander.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Okay, now what…uhhh….</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Oh, the other day I needed to the grocery store but stopped off at Lowe’s first. I went early so I didn’t have to deal with any crowds. I did use, for the first time, one of those electric cart things. I’ve always refused them before, but it was just easier than trying to push a shopping cart on crutches.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Anyway, by going early, I got to see a lot of the tradies getting supplies to start their day. I was surprised at the new perspective riding around in that cart gave me. If you haven’t guessed yet, it puts your eyesight right at crotch level! I might reconsider using that cart from now on. Yeah, I know, I’m a bit of a perv, but then most of you knew that already. Hey, I may be on a diet but that doesn’t mean I can’t look at the menu!</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I don’t know about anywhere else, but here, a lot of tradesmen wear those nylon shorts. I’m guessing because they are light weight and fairly cheap. The one thing I like about them is they really do cling to the body. Those things do show off a nice booty, let me tell you. Oh, and you can usually tell if they are wearing boxers or briefs. Yay, long live the boxers, even if they are butt ugly. It reminds me of that old country song: “Swingin’”. Yeah, things do tend to swing to and fro with boxers. I think I may need to go to Lowe’s first thing in the morning. I’m sure I need something there.
Sadly, I didn’t have the same experience at the grocery store.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Meanwhile…</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Here in fabulous, sunny Flo-rid-ia, the weather has finally become more tolerable. What I mean is that it isn’t in the high 90’s with humidity close to the same digits. Ugh, that really is miserable. However, since I’m somewhat laid up, I can’t really be out doing what I’d really like to be doing. Yep, I so want to be outside and digging in the dirt. Hopefully, I’ll be free of the Frankenstein boot by next week and I can get my hands dirty. I’ve got so much I’d like to get done.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> The break in the weather also means that Halloween is just around the corner. I used to go all out for the holiday. Most gay men love this holiday. Hell, I think we got more excited about it over Christmas! I think that after my Jim died, I kind of lost interest. That was his favorite holiday, after all. He would go all out. One year we even made CNN! Anyway, I think I may be starting to get the itch again. Not sure why, but I’ve been thinking… always dangerous. I doubt that I’ll be able to do anything this year. I’m just not able to do much, but maybe… next year.</span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwm1v-YmYcn1J-n3Bta91IRFEaGufGbQi2zZ7PcdWEXmAJAb91LhAoy4shRbL6otxu25tw7gu8NZQ21cw6Uo_4x5h2xQcpQQ54yMH9byujnaENyLIastBBLRlXaRjRhSAH92DwgAcuahsv/s1600/19_super_man.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwm1v-YmYcn1J-n3Bta91IRFEaGufGbQi2zZ7PcdWEXmAJAb91LhAoy4shRbL6otxu25tw7gu8NZQ21cw6Uo_4x5h2xQcpQQ54yMH9byujnaENyLIastBBLRlXaRjRhSAH92DwgAcuahsv/s320/19_super_man.jpg" width="224" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I do like body painting!</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> It’s this time of year that seems to fly by for me. First Halloween, then Thanksgiving, and finally Christmas. That’s when my stomach starts to tighten up. I can’t help but think of those kids I’ve seen or met that were tossed out by their families like yesterday’s garbage. What is their Christmas going to be like? Are they going to have a safe place to spend the holidays? Will they be warm? I can’t help myself. After seeing the need first hand, I can’t get it out of my head.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> It isn’t just the kids either. I’ve seen the homeless veterans hovering around the VA Hospital in Atlanta, looking, begging for help. We as a country have truly failed these men and women. As individuals, we can always do something. Sometimes the simple act of kindness makes a big difference in their lives.</span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgORC7CyByjyi6ZOiins9VPZLIyVPb2TC907ReNkMhOf4LkCL3TKIZnCBZAFLvXyG-DgQMlTDgpOE08d38vNHhdtgJqsaR-4DpNn5LeTqD_rpH7s9gisn6hoKlCzDnKIPGHfj0hq867ODHp/s1600/irreverent+warriors.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgORC7CyByjyi6ZOiins9VPZLIyVPb2TC907ReNkMhOf4LkCL3TKIZnCBZAFLvXyG-DgQMlTDgpOE08d38vNHhdtgJqsaR-4DpNn5LeTqD_rpH7s9gisn6hoKlCzDnKIPGHfj0hq867ODHp/s400/irreverent+warriors.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Irreverent Warriors do a lot of good!</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> When I was researching for ‘Life After Living’, I was heartbroken at some of the stories I found. Some of these poor guys left their homes, their families, because they were afraid they might hurt them. Some were so messed up in the head that repeatedly tried to commit suicide, many succeeding. The stories are varied, but the outcome was pretty much the same. They need help and they need it now.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Please, keep that in mind when you do your shopping this year. Keep those in mind that don’t have families to spend time with. There is always something we can all do. No matter how small, it can and does make a difference. Go get them Karma Coins!</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Okay, y’all, that’s all I got this week. Have a grrreat week.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Max
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12478374601116390008noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6013868102307208220.post-43159085156066115422016-10-17T08:14:00.000-04:002016-10-17T08:14:53.948-04:00Yep, I'm Southern and Proud<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> So… I’m about to go on a little bit of rip-roaring tirade here… you’ve been warned. Fasten your seatbelts and put a hat on, it’s gonna be a full-on blow.
The other morning, I woke up after a good nights’ sleep and was feeling pretty good. Yeah, well that didn’t last long. The morning went to shit fairly quickly. Why? There were actually a few things, but I’m going to focus on one in particular that really irked me.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I may be white. I may be middle-aged and yes, I did grow up in the South and I prefer to live in the South. I love my biscuits and cornbread. I love my pinto beans, collards, and pork bar-b-que. That does not mean that I am uneducated, stupid or… wait for it… a RACIST! Yep, that is exactly what I said. Can you believe it? I live in the land of Dixie and I am NOT a racist.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I will never understand why so many people in this country think that if someone is born in the South they are somehow stupid, degenerate or think it is sad. WTF? I once had someone ask me how I got out [of the South]? Huh? It’s not like it’s a maximum security prison. Yes, that is true. I’m from East Tennessee and damn proud of it. Yeah, I may speak with a bit of a twang, but that does not make me some degenerate who plays a banjo on the front porch!</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> And then…</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I have seen several posts from people who are calling people out for being bigots or being racist and/or making slurs against people. Sorry, but in my opinion, that isn’t much better than actually being one. It is hateful and hurtful. My mamaw told me when I was little that ‘that you catch more flies with honey than you do vinegar’. She was so right. Took me a while to learn the art of that, but with practice, I got it.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> When did we become so divisive? How did we get to the point where we think it is okay to say things online that, more than likely, we’d never say to another person’s face? At what point in time did we decide to disregard anyone else’s opinion, whether we like it or not? What made us disrespect one another so venomously?</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I try to be a good person. I do not always manage that, but I do try. There are times I fail to mind my momma’s words, ‘If you can’t say anything nice, shut your mouth.” By no means am I perfect, and I don’t pretend to be. I do have my faults, just like everyone else. But let me tell you now, I have too much respect for myself to do the kind of shit that I’ve seen posted on social media lately. Yes, I said respect for ME. I have to look in the mirror each morning and I want to feel okay with ME. I have to answer to me first, no one else.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Here’s what’s been my rule for years…</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> As long as you don’t mess with my family, in whatever form that comes in, we’re good.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> As long as you don’t mess with my house or my stuff, we’re good.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> As long as you don’t mess with my money, we’re good.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> As long as you don’t steal from me, we’re good.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> As long as you don’t lie to me, we’re good.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Now then, I have been lied to and have forgiven, but I don’t forget. I have been stolen from and have forgiven, but never forgotten. You go after my family and we’re not good and you won’t be good at all when all is said and done. And yes, I do consider my dogs to be a part of my family.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Things I won’t do…</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I’ll never tell you how you should feel. They are your feelings and you own them, but do that. OWN that shit. That does not mean that you need to spread them out for the entire world to see. There are some things that people just don’t want or need to hear. Learn to use that filter.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Opinions are like… belly buttons… yeah, that’s what I meant to say. They are yours and you are entitled to them. Don’t expect me to always agree with them and I might even try to change your mind, but I will always respect them. That goes for book reviews too.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I will never tell anyone that they don’t matter. Every life matters. We each have a talent or a gift. We need to support and help each other find and develop those special skills.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> What to do…</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Personally, I think people have forgotten how to get along. The skill of minding one’s manners has all but disappeared. Mutual respect has flown out the window and people seem okay with this. I am not. I do not like rude people.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I wish everyone would remember that we all have more in common than we may think. Take away the politics and yes, there are a lot of people on opposite sides of the aisle that can, and often do, get along. Yes, there are things that we can agree on, things that we share. Actually, there are a lot more things that can bring us together than separate us. BUT you have to be willing to listen. Not just hear what they are saying, but actually listen and try to relate. That common thread is there; you sometimes have to look for it, though.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Now I know it’s not always easy, but who said that things in life were going to be easy? Sometimes it is easy. But honestly, we each need to put forth a little bit of effort. Try to put yourself in other’s shoes, if only for a minute. Try and see the world from their perspective. If we each would take the time, this world would be a much better place.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Here’s an idea…</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> I’d like to challenge all of you. Find a person you don’t think you have anything in common with and start a conversation. It doesn’t mean this person is going to become your new best friend, but you never know. Just talk to them for a few minutes. Find out something about them. Anything. Do they have hobbies? What might you have in common? Just communicate! That’s all I’m asking.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> This is the time where I’m going to ask something else of you. Do something nice for someone else. It won’t hurt, I promise. It might actually make you feel good. It never hurts to rack up some of those good Karma Coins. Bank them bad-boys. </span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Have a grrreat week, y’all.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 19px; line-height: 38px;"> Max
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12478374601116390008noreply@blogger.com0