How It Is Done

Hey Ladynay, thanks for still checking me out even after my six month hiatus...*LOL*. I was waiting to see if I'd get any reaction. :-)

I'm actually off from work today and back in Chicago. My work life has been hell at the company I've been vowing to leave since 2006...*LOL*. I've fallen a bit off the gym track and am doing my best to maintain myself though January is near and I may do another cleanse. My love life has consisted of hot sex with an occasional FWB who's deep in the closet and a few dates and hookups with other guys, nothing significant though I long to find boyfriend #2. Maybe 2011 is the year.

Hemingway (classic...*LOL*) now I'm going to do something I haven't done in ages. Give a blow by blow account of an event that recently happened. I'm referring to my coming out to my parents on the 24th.

The day started innocently enough. Fast forward to 12:30PM. It's Day 3 in Detroit at my parents' crib. My Dad's sitting by his laptop playing spider solitaire and listening to the radio. My Mom's laying on the sofa watching CNN and I'm sitting in a chair not far from her at the dining room table texting.

So I'm texting with Eugene, who's also in Detroit visiting his family, about his recent high school reunion that he attended. Of course he's rambling on and on about how everyone there was telling him how young he looks. I started strumming to myself the bars to Beyonce's Ego (god...I imagine she has a huge one too....*LOL*). His date for the evening wasn't feeling all the comments from his classmates from what he said.

My Mom sees me texting and asks me with whom I'm texting. I love my Mom but sometimes she's too nosey for her own good. And yeah I guess Mamas are like that. I sighed and told her it wasn't anyone she knew. That of course didn't stop my Mom. She asked me if I was texting a "special friend".

(It didn't help that moments before CNN was once again talking about the repeal of the discriminatory military practice of 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' that finally received approval from the House and Senate and was signed into law by Obama.)

I was in shock but only for a moment. If I were a more direct person, I would ask her what she meant by "special friend". But I knew exactly what she meant. No explanation required. I told her no it's not a special friend. That wasn't enough of course for my Mom. She dug deeper and asked me if I was seeing anyone. I got up from my seat and told her I wasn't seeing anyone and made a beeline for my bedroom (well the guestroom....*LOL*).

A wave of emotions was coming over me. I texted about this recent exchange to Eugene. He asked me what she meant by "special friend" and then was amazed my Mom knew about texting. My Mom is not into texting or using the computer but obviously she knows when someone's doing it. I then told Eugene that I would need to tell my parents officially that I'm gay but would wait until the day after Christmas as to not spoil the holiday.

Eugene asked me what I was going to tell my Mom and I said I'm going to tell both my parents that I'm gay and dating but don't have anyone special. The weight of what I was contemplating doing came over me and I started to cry. Luckily since I was texting Eugene, he had no idea I was doing so.

I mourned again the hopes and dreams that my parents may have had of me one day getting married (to a girl...*LOL*) and starting a family. I mourned that I didn't have a special guy in my life that I could tell them I was seeing. I worried that I would be seen as a failure by my parents.

My Mom came knocking on my door asking me if I was okay. I did my best to swallow my tears and told her I was fine. I didn't hear her walking away so I went and opened the door. She wasn't by my door but was in the back kitchen. I walked towards her and she asked me again if I was okay. She was looking out the window and not directly at me.

I was still wiping the tears from my eyes telling her I was fine. But I lost it and started crying again. She turned around and looked like she was about to cry to but instead she asked if she made me upset asking about any "special friends". I lied and said no but the tears wouldn't stop. I then hugged her and repeatedly said 'Im sorry.'

My Mom shooed my apology and had a smile on her face. She asked if I had a boyfriend directly and I told her no but yes I'm gay. She told me that she knew and just wanted me to say it. She displayed a strength that was hiding under her Parkinson's Disease ailment and told me to go to my Dad. With one hand she touched my hands and the other she wrapped around my waist as we took the longest walk towards the living room.

With each step I kept thinking it's finally over. I hoped my Dad's reaction would be as good as my Mom's. Honestly my Mom surprised me the most since she's so 'black and white' about things and I imagined she'd have a more difficult time about it. But on the other hand my parents I'm sure had lots of discussions about me in private and likely she's had more than enough time to accept the reality, hence her relentless pursuit of the truth. She didn't want another moment obviously of knowing but not receiving my confirmation.

My Dad, aside from any disappointments that his #1 son (his only son) was gay, I felt would have a better grasp of the situation and come to terms to it sooner. As far as personality, my Dad has done a complete 180. Whereas in my childhood he was stern and downright scary, my new Dad over the years has become friendlier, approachable, and downright emotional.

My Mom and I reached the living room and she told him that I was crying. He turned around, looked at me, and immediately started crying himself as he told me that they've known about me and no matter what, they still love and care about me. They just wanted to know what was going on with me since I never talk about my love life and the last girl I bought over to the house was in 2001.

He was still crying and I went up and hugged him. Then he started talking about his own experiences about how folks at our Church actually thought he was gay since he hadn't seriously been seeing any women prior to my Mom. But he told me that at the time he knew that he ultimately wanted to marry a woman from the Caribbean similar to himself, which is exactly what he did. I recounted the teasing I had gotten growing up sans my molestation story. He rambled a bit more but I heard all I needed to hear when he said that they still loved and cared about me.

And then it was over. We later went back to our normal routines and my fear of Christmas being ruined didn't come to pass. My only question now is who'll be the lucky guy that'll get to meet my parents someday.

Summer's Coming

Or at least it's trying to. The weather in Chicago these last couple weeks have been flip floppy. Of course being that its Chicago it should come as no surprise.

But nonetheless I'm relishing this upcoming summer. My new theme song whenever I'm walking down the street will be Sheryl Crow's Soak Up The Sun. At least I think that's the title. You will have to forgive me since I'm blogging from my mobile.

I was told by my doctor that I have a Vitamin D deficiency. So every week for the next ten weeks I have to take 50000IU of Vitamin D pills. The perscription for those mugs cost $20 and apparently insurance doesn't cover it.

Whatever. Hemingway consider this my coming out of hibernation post.

The Midas Touch

HAPPY 2009 Everyone!!!

Another year, another chance for renewal. It's that time of year when a lot of us make resolutions to do things differently this year. In my case it's no different. I have the typical resolutions to continue to stay healthy and trying to enjoy life even more. I've slipped a bit on my working out sessions but I'm working to try and get those back on track, much like everyone else around this time. I'm actually doing yet another cleanse. I'm about halfway done with it.

I'm back on the dating scene as well. Actually there's this guy that I've chatted with and befriended a few months back that I hooked up with on New Year's Day. On paper, he's (let's call him Midas) got a lot of qualities that I like. Lookswise Midas is like an Adonis. He's 6-foot, 295 lbs. He is one of those guys that carries his weight very well. Sort of like Young MC when he made his appearance on Celebrity Fit Club a few years back. Young MC if I recall was 275 pounds but IMHO looked very hot. Midas has very broad shoulders, nice big hands, nicely shaped thighs and calves. His face is very handsome as well. Personality wise, Midas seems to have a heart of gold. In our conversations, he comes across as being the one that tends to help his friends out in a bind. He's mentioned running errands to pick up items for his close friends. He also mentioned the time he went with a friend to pick up his car at the impound after it got towed at 3am. And then when said friend didn't have the money to pay and get his car out, he paid for it himself. He even offered to pick me up from the train station when I got back from Detroit over the holidays when I worried that I might miss the last Metra. Basically he likes helping folks out that are in a jam.

But I'm definitely taking things slow. Midas and I continue to chat with each other every now and then since our hooking up. Who knows where it'll go?

As for Rock, we've been maintaining friendly terms. But I noticed that since prior to New Year' s Eve, we haven't spoken. I know this New Year's Eve was different since the last two New Year's Eve were spent chilling with Rock. This past one I actually took the CTA (which I had no idea was free on that day) to meet Sally at her friend's place. I was the only guy among a group of ladies but it was cool. When 2009 came in, I texted Rock to wish him a Happy New Year. He wished me the same and then I mentioned that I was hanging 'with friends', not specifying who the friends were. It's possible he may have drawn the conclusion that 'with friends' meant a guy. And maybe that's why he's been incognito. And actually he wasn't that far from the truth since later on after the party, I hooked up with Midas.

So Hemingway that's been my year so far. Here's hoping we all have a great 2009. I really need to get back to a regular blogging schedule. Till next time.

What's Up E?

Oh my gosh. I have been so bad in keeping up with my blogging and blogs. I just haven't felt like typing much with everything still being insane at the job. I think I'll pull a Norris and just provide a list of random events or things that have caught my attention in the last month. I reserve the right to ramble on a few.

1) I've been enjoying Season 1 of Dexter on DVD. The title character is a Miami blood forensics expert who moonlights as a serial killer with a twist. He's a killer of other serial killers. I admit it's an interesting dynamic since taking a human life is wrong but at the same time he's taking the lives of those who takes other lives and slip through the system. Plus it's so cool seeing Lauren Velez in another television series. I still have fond memories of her from her New York Undercover days. That's really old school. I also keep hoping Erik King takes off his shirt one day and preferably just wearing briefs. Tight briefs. That brotha is so fine.

2) Has anyone heard of the ROM machine? It claims that you can get a workout the equivalent of 45 minutes on the treadmill in just 4 minutes. I read an AD on the machine in Popular Mechanics, though I vaguely remember seeing the same AD a year ago in another magazine. If you click on the website, they'll send you a free 45 minute DVD or VHS tape on their machine. By the way, it only costs $14,615. They try to justify the cost when compared to long-term gym membership costs and time commitment required. I ordered the DVD, though I probably won't be buying a machine anytime soon. At least not with the way the economy is right now.

3) I went to see Janet Jackson in concert this past Thursday with Sally. Sally was using the concert as a last hurrah of sorts in light of her present financial situation. The concert was the bomb. The majority of the songs played was from her previous albums with a brief snippet of her recent song Feedback. I ran into Rock's bff Ned and his boyfriend NDrama in the hallway while Sally was in the restroom. Of course they got seats near the stage but I wasn't complaining about my lower level seat, which actually gave a very good view of the stage. LL Cool J was her opening act. I was hoping to see a little skin from LL but he kept his shirt on. Overall it was a great concert....now getting out of the parking lot, that was another story.

4) I so need to get ready for my Hawaiian trip. I totally need to contact fellow blogger NeenaLove to find out when we can hang out. Part of me hopes she can hang out with me during a luau, even though that's so touristy. And I need to buy a Spacebag to see if those things really do hold more items in less space. I think I've talked about it before.

5) Any other kefir lovers out there? A co-worker of mine turned me on to the drink a year or so back. I remembered liking it that initial time but not really thinking much of it afterwards. So Hemingway in my continued quest to eat healthier (even though some days that falls to the wayside...*LOL*), I read up on kefir and recalled drinking it before. The main benefit is that it provides good bacteria to your digestive tract, which helps improves digestion. It also helps in absorbing the necessary nutrients that your body needs. Plus it tastes so good. I've been drinking a glass every morning.

6) My one-year anniversary of owning my Nissan Altima is coming up. I still enjoy driving it as much as the day I took it from the lot. I want to get it professionally cleaned soon. I saw the immediate benefits of doing so when cleaning up the Cavalier before giving it to my father and figured an annual cleaning wouldn't be so bad. Of course when I told my bff Eugene about doing that, he had to counter with why I don't do the same thing for my house. I should but sigh...*LOL*.

7) I'm looking forward to the newest Saw movie coming out this Halloween. It seems to be an annual tradition now for those to come out. My only question is why is Lyriq Bent, the fine ass brotha that was in Saw 2, 3, and 4 (especially his prominent role in 4), not listed in the credits for 5? Hopefully he makes a cameo appearance and they are just hiding his name from the credits. After my fiasco last year with trying to see Saw IV with Eugene and the subsequent issues I had with Rock, I think this year I'll opt again for seeing it on my own (like I wound up doing anyway). Besides it's coming out the day after I get back from Hawaii.

8) I went to Detroit last weekend for Tasha's housewarming. I wound up getting her some Partylite candles and holders for her gift. I got to see a few of her friends and co-workers and it was interesting hearing how one of them said that Tasha talks about me all the time. A good interesting, of course. I must admit I was flattered. I got to see Trina as well when she came over after work. Of course I spent the rest of the weekend with the 'rents (heh). Their cats had a bad case of fleas when I was in town last time but luckily the population is under control now.

9) What a mess this country finds itself in. With all this talk of the government bailing out Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, and even the auto industry wanting to weigh in on getting help, my question is who's going to bail American out? I was wrapping up my workout (which I so needed) at work and making my way home when the first presidential debate was airing. Luckily I was able to catch a transcript of the debate from CNN's website. It was a shame I missed the historical debate between the two as from the way it read, it sounded really intense. I'm sure it'll be on Youtube soon. But I really looking forward to next week's vice presidential debate with Palin vs. Biden.

There was an interesting article from Washington Post columnist Kathleen Parker where in the last few sentences she says in regards to Palin: "McCain can’t repudiate his choice for running mate. He not only risks the wrath of the GOP’s unforgiving base, but he invites others to second-guess his executive decision-making ability. Barack Obama faces the same problem with Biden.

Only Palin can save McCain, her party and the country she loves. She can bow out for personal reasons, perhaps because she wants to spend more time with her newborn. No one would criticize a mother who puts her family first.

Do it for your country." I wonder if that'll be bought up in the debate.

10) I can't think of a point 10....but thought I should have 10 points to make things even. (Although it looks like based on the labels assigned for this post, I've covered almost every category.)

Talk To Myself

This song was the jam back in the day. I had the biggest crush on Christopher Williams. He was part of that New Jack era in music. I believe I read somewhere that he has ties to the late Ella Fitzgerald. I went to Amazon to try and find his first CD to see if it was on sale. But apparently there aren't many copies out there since the cheapest CD available was $60. Now I love Christopher but not that much.

I did remember buying a cassette of his album but I hadn't seen the cassette in years. That changed last week when I was cleaning out my closet and came across his cassette. I was so happy and was ready to play it, especially wanted to hear his jam I'm Your Present. (Let me make sure Rock's not around...*LOL*) Okay...coast clear. Chris could be my present anytime he wants to be.

The sad thing is that I don't even have a cassette player anymore. So I can't play my cassette. Is there anyway to convert my cassette music to CD? I'd love to play his songs on my PC.

Speaking of talking to myself, I've been doing a lot of that and cursing due to my job. Since the day after Labor Day, I've been working insane hours trying to fix various production issues in the system I support. For a few days I'd literally get up and within the hour log on, take a little breather here and there, but stay working till midnight or so. Luckily I did a lot of this from home but it was still pretty taxing on me.

My new manager who I need to come up with a nickname for, assuming I talk about her again, has been pretty supportive, though. She's been encouraging me to get away from the computer. Unfortunately though, my latest onshore coordinator keeps calling me at night with queries, which forces me back on the system. He's nice but can be a bit clingy. Hemingway.

I guess it didn't help during my stressful week that I was doing another MC....*LOL*. So I couldn't even snack while working. Actually that might've been a good thing, though. I'm wrapping up Day 9 now and should be done tomorrow night. I was contemplating doing an 11th day just to break my record but I don't think I can take another day of cayenne limade. Plus I'm starting to get way too skinny.

Tonight before getting home I bought all my ingredients for my veggie soup I'll be enjoying Friday evening. It's the usual carrots, celery, tomatoes, garbanzo beans, bean sprouts, and mushrooms...and of course I'll add lime and cayenne to it.

Sigh so Hemingway just wanted to post a quick entry to let anyone who's still visiting that I'm still around. Again I promise to make more of an effort to visit other blogs. Well as soon as I get past all these production issues. So I guess I'll log back into work. Joy!

Motivated Blob

I so need to log into work after this post, so it'll be relatively quick.

But Hemingway (haven't used that term in a minute) I just back from a quick hour work out. I had extra motivation from a picture Eugene had me look at this morning. Nothing like looking at hottie Daniel Jacobs to motivate you to go in the gym.





Only problem. The workout today was an extra struggle. I didn't quite reach my 10,000 strides on the elliptical. It was more around 8300. I think my splurging on a whole pound of plantain chips was to blame. Bad E I know. So good but so bad. So so good...wasn't even hungry for lunch. So pretty much yesterday that and some gummi worms was all I had to eat. Bad bad bad.





But hey. At least I did something. I wish I were in Cancun like Rock (it was a trip that his bff and he had planned a year back) but it's okay. Well back to my personal work hell.

By the way, a tip I learned from Sally while she was job hunting. Not sure if I mentioned it but she found a new job working at Home Depot full-time and Eddie Bauer part-time. They're not her ideal job but it gets her out of the house and some income in her pocket. But Hemingway the tip. She said that you can apply to get a certificate in substitute teaching. Once you have that certificate which is good for a year, if you get laid off, you can apply at different school districts to get a job subbing. If they select you, they pay you at minimum $100 a day (even if you don't teach). I printed out an application from the Illinois School Board of Education and am in the process of mailing it out along with a transcript from my University. You have to do what you gotta do in this market. Best thing, at least you can say on interviews that you have a current job. Just passing it along.

Hemingway let me log back to work before I get in trouble. Ciao.

Ironed Out

My work life has been hell. I was transferred to another project a few months back as part of our reorg. Not only am I learning the current processes of the project but I'm also slated to make major changes to how the process works. The business user is very demanding as well, throwing question after question to research on in the midst of maintaining and learning the current process. We have offshore staff that also works on these requests as we receive them but the changes have been coming fast and furious. It's gotten to the point where I'm working 10-12 hour days some days.

Fussy has expressed displeasure in the output he's received from our group so for the last four weeks we've had 6:30AM conference calls every other day with offshore to discuss updates. I'm not a morning person at all so it's been a bit rough. An added complexity is that I've started another Master Cleanse (don't judge me...*LOL*) and on the days I have the 6:30AMs, I have to wake up at 4:15 to drink my salt water. I'll be on Day 7 on Sunday. What's worse is that Fussy has been demanding face-to-face meetings with me on days that I work from home. Unfortunately to accommodate him, I've had to go along with these but in the last week it's meant having to make my limade drinks on the fly and then driving the 50 minutes or so to the job.

The worse thing about it is that he still won't be satisfied and I already know I'll get a negative review next year (in the unfortunate event I'm still working at my current company...you know that four year and counting plan to leave the job is still on...*LOL*). The upshot is that management knows he's demanding. But nonetheless I know I'll need to try and find a way for him to be somewhat happy.

My work situation has been so stressful that it's affected my relationship with Rock. The thing is I don't like talking about work once I'm off the clock. But Rock knows that work is the source of my stress. Since work's been on my mind, I haven't really thought about much else. He expressed concern that our relationship was getting stagnant since we hardly talked about much. We were having a "discussion" over the phone last week on this and I told him that I don't like talking about work because I don't want to come across as whiny.

I also temper the I hate work talk because my friend Sally is still trying to find employment. It's that whole 'I hate my job but I'm glad I have employment' syndrome. Who am I to sound ungrateful when Sally would love to be employed again?

Rock texted me on Wednesday after our "discussion" telling me that he's there for me to vent at. I don't know if it was the cleanse or the fact that I was struggling to answer another one of Fussy's queries but I felt myself tear up. Luckily I was working from home that day...*LOL*. I called Rock in tears confessing to him that I was frustrated at my work situation and feared that the company would have grounds to fire me since I wasn't satisfying Fussy's queries fast enough. I also told him that I'm supposed to be the calm, collected one (everyone at work sees me that way) and I can't fall apart. Plus being a black man means working over 110% and I couldn't afford any perception that I couldn't handle the project. Rock told me he's there for me and everything would be okay. He had to get back to work himself so we hung up. He checked on me later that afternoon to make sure I was fine.

So Hemingway I'm actually going to drive up to see Rock tomorrow. Since I'll still be cleansing I'll need to bring my drinks with me for when I get hungry. He'll also eat breakfast ahead of time since I can't eat any.

It'll be interesting to see what he thinks of me. Will I be looking scary to him? He's never seen me during one of my cleanses. I've done three of them since we've been dating and should be wrapping up this one by Wednesday.

We're going to see Iron Man. He's excited about that since he remembers the cartoon series. He's a cartoon junkie so I'm sure he'll enjoy it. It'll be great to spend time with him. Last weekend he was in Springfield hanging with his crew while the weekend before I was hanging with my blogger crew.

So I'm definitely looking forward to seeing him. It'll be great to take my mind off work for a few hours as well.

Oh well. Let me finish my laxative tea and go to bed. I have another round of salt water to look forward to first thing in the morning.

Borderlined

Borderline - Madonna

[Verse 1]
Something in the way you love me won't let me be
I don't want to be your prisoner so baby won't you set me free
Stop playing with my heart
Finish what you start
When you make my love come down
If you want me let me know
Baby let it show
Honey don't you fool around

Just try to understand, I've given all I can,
'Cause you got the best of me

[Chorus 1]

Borderline feels like I'm going to lose my mind
You just keep on pushing my love over the borderline

Repeat Chorus 1

[Chorus 2]
Keep on pushing me baby
Don't you know you drive me crazy
You just keep on pushing my love over the borderline

[Verse 2]
Something in your eyes is makin' such a fool of me
When you hold me in your arms you love me till I just can't see
But then you let me down, when I look around, baby you just can't be found
Stop driving me away, I just wanna stay,
There's something I just got to say

Just try to understand, I've given all I can,
'Cause you got the best of me

Repeat Chorus 1 twice

Repeat Chorus 2 once

[Bridge]
Look what your love has done to me
Come on baby set me free
You just keep on pushing my love over the borderline
You cause me so much pain, I think I'm going insane
What does it take to make you see?
You just keep on pushing my love over the borderline

Another elliptical record was set today. 10,522 strides. I swear...I don't know what's gotten to me. Maybe it's the hemp seeds I've been recently eating. Apparently they add some essential fatty acids that the human body doesn't produce normally yet is needed. Maybe that's giving me the extra energy.

In sadder news....

I feel like Rock and I are at the borderline of ending things again. We had a horrible fight this morning over the phone. Well it was mostly Rock yelling at me. I was insensitive to his feelings. It wasn't my intention to be but it happened.

He's really been having a hard time dealing with his cousin's death. What made it harder is that he's lost several close friends and four key family members over the course of several years. It took him a while from what he's told me to move past the deaths and whenever anniversary of said deaths occur, his mood can get unpredictable as I've learned. His way of dealing with it is to shut himself off from the world as much as possible. Basically what he coins 'going underground'. He's even contemplating taking a leave from his job.

So obviously our relationship has suffered even more. We don't see each other enough as it is and now he's putting more restrictions on that time because he needs to be by himself. On the one hand I'm trying to be understanding but on the other hand I'm annoyed because our relationship as well as his other relationships are suffering.

So in a fit of rage I basically told Rock that there are folks who miss having him around and if something happens to one of us, how is he going to feel neglecting that relationship. Boy did that set him off. With good reason. Yes I know (even though I'm sure I'll get the comments anyway...*LOL*) it was way harsh. So I let him go off.

He basically told me I was insensitive and until I experience a death close to me that I shouldn't make judgment. He then told me he's gonna do what he has to do so I should go do what I have to do. Then he told me to have a nice day, I wished him the same, and we hung up.

Both of us were on our ways to work and after I hung up I had to stop myself from tearing up. After getting myself together, I decided to immediately call my parents. I should definitely be grateful that they're still around.

As for Rock I'll just have to give him his space. I'll keep everyone posted.

Steamworks Redux

It's been more than sixteen months since my last HIV test. I went to the Cook County Department of Public Health in October 2006 to get tested for HIV. The location wasn't as interesting as the previous time I tested but I mixed things up by also testing for a few more STD's. In particular Syphilis, Gonorrhea, and "The Clap". The test for Chlamydia in particular I will never forget. I swore after testing for that one I vowed never again to have sex with men. But I think I dated a week after that and somehow stumbled unto Rock later on.

So I've been thinking about taking an HIV test again. I've only been with Rock and I'm 99.44% certain he's only been with me. But nonetheless I feel like it's something I should be doing. I'm thinking of asking Rock to get tested as well but I don't know if asking is appropriate. Part of me thinks he might be offended if I ask. I can't help but think he might question why I want him to be tested. After all if we've only been with each other, why would we need to be tested. I think he may even question why I want to test myself. Plus he's not in the best state of mind right now.

I don't know. I'm thinking I may just go do it for myself for my peace of mind. Looks like I have another date with Steamworks in my future. *LOL*.

P.S....I reached a record milestone yesterday while doing elliptical training. I typically am on the machine for a full hour plus the 5 minute cool off. I wa pleasantly surprised to see that I completed over 10,000 strides. It was 10,276 to be exact. I guess climbing all those steps at my new work location is starting to pay off.

Supersized Society

HAPPY 2008 EVERYONE!!!!!

I've recently started a membership with Blockbuster Online, which is totally cool. There's so many movies and TV shows out there that I haven't seen. It definitely opens up my world a lot. I especially like the number of gay and lesbian movies that are available for rent. Blockbuster Online provides a nice way to get these movies without having to deal with the hassles of brick and mortar.

Believe it or not, I'm in the final days of yet another Master Cleanse (my 4th). I'm not doing it for weight loss, even though it's one of the things that happens while on it. I'm doing it for the benefits I see in my blood pressure as well as a general well-being of my intestinal system.

I started January 2nd and plan on completing another ten days this Friday.

So one of the movies I ordered from Blockbuster Online to get me in the mood for cleansing was the documentary Super Size Me! The basic premise was to follow director Morgan Spurlock as he spends the next 30 days eating for breakfast, lunch, and dinner food from the Golden Arches.
One of the rules he had was if a server asked him if he wanted the meal "super sized", that he would say yes.

The next two hours of the movie showed his descent to McDonald hell as the once healthy Spurlock went from 185 lbs to 210 lbs. Not only that but his once near perfect blood work was a thing of the past and according to three different doctors, not only was his cholesterol and triglycerides to the roof, he also risked liver damage.

In between the food fest, including nice footage of him vomiting a meal, little tidbits about McDonald's and how different folks view the corporation were included. This footage was filmed as Spurlock traveled across the U.S. going to various McDonald's. There was even one that delivers the food to your door.

One man who aside from bad hair looked to be of normal weight boasted of eating nine Big Macs a day when the sandwich first came out. Ironically his wife is a nutritionist. Another segment showed a couple who collected all kinds of Ronald McDonald memorabilia. The couple started out as collecting toys for one of their grandchildren and eventually they went crazy with it.

A lot of discussion focused on how McDonald's has locked themselves into American culture and the different strategies used to lure families to the restaurant. I learned that former Today weatherman Willard Scott used to be the original clown. But they got rid of him when he started to show a bit more girth. The clown then became the generic scary one that we know today. An interesting point made was that Ronald McDonald was never shown eating a burger.

Of course McDonald's biggest lure was the cheap toys that were included in the "Happy Meals". These toys appealed to kids and of course they beg their parents to go so they can collect them.

The idea behind all their ploys was to instill in kids' heads how much of a good time they had at McDonald's so that when they get older, they too would become consumers and bring their kids and the cycle would continue.

It then got into the nasty topic of how their food is processed. I was especially disgusted hearing about Chicken McNuggets and how so many different items besides chicken makes a McNugget. And to think I used to eat those during my college years. Yuck!

Needless to say the movie was perfect to set me in the mind of avoiding food. I haven't eaten in McDonald's in nearly a year and prior to that time, it was another long while. The last thing I ordered from there was a "chicken wrap" and even those aren't all that healthy.

As I looking through Subway's nutritional facts, I was dismayed to learn that even my favorite tuna sub is not that healthy either. It has more grams per fat than even a Big Mac. Here I thought I was doing a good thing eating that every day. So definitely once I get off this cleanse, I'll have to lay off the tuna subs and stick to the turkey, ham, or roast beef.

Getting back to McDonald's, though, I have to say growing up it was rare that we ever ate there. The majority of my meals were home cooked. (Yay Mom!) I started going more though once I started college. I was working part time with my Dad at our Church and when they opened a McDonald's next to us, my Dad would send me over there to get food once a week.

For a while after I graduated college and started making a living, I would go there every so often (in addition to Wendy's, KFC, Taco Bell, etc.). But at some point when I started having my health issues, I told myself that I needed to reduce significantly my trips to such places. For the most part I have. It's only on very rare occasions that I frequent fast food joints and if I do, I try to go for the more healthier options.

Hemingway in the new year, I'll continue to focus on trying to improve my health. The cleanse I'm doing now gives me time to evaluate what I'm doing and then hone in on what I can improve on. I may even consider eating a little more RAW, even though I'll always want the occasional steak.

777-9311

777-9311 - The Time

Baby, what's your phone number?
I know I'm kinda fast, but I hate to waste time.
Baby, what's your phone number?
Girl, I have to ask cuz you're so fine.

(chorus)
777-9311 - I wanna spend the night with you if that's alright.
777-9311 - Ooh baby, please can I come tonight?

Baby, what's your phone number?
How can you be reached on a lonely night?
Baby, what's your phone number?
How can I get into you when I'm feeling right?

(repeat chorus)

Ain't nothin' worse than rejection?
I'd feel a little better if you'd slapped my face.

Hey, what's your phone number?
Can't you see the agony I'm goin' through?
Baby, what's your phone number?
Girl, it's getting hard baby, won't you let me love you?

(repeat chorus)

Hey baby,what's your phone number?
I know it sounds fast, but I ain't got all night.
Come on baby, what's your phone number?
You know I got to be cooler than this cat you're sittin' with.
I'll do you right, baby. Come on!

(repeat chorus)

Come to night, if it's alright.
Honey, please can I come to night?
Can't you see what I'm gonna do?
I wanna do it to night, baby. I wanna do it to you.

It's on fire, you burn me out.
It's getting higher, you know what I'm talkin' about.
Help me out good Lord above.
Marry me girl, give me some of that love.

Fun fact I learned on Wikipedia. I'm not sure if it's true or not with all the misaccurate information on there. However the number 777-9311 belonged to one of The Time's band members Dez Dickerson. Of course the number kept being dialed to the point that he had to change his number. Maybe that's part of the reason why 555 is more commonly used in TV shows and lyrics these days.

Hemingway this post wasn't published on 7/7/07 at 7:07 PM. In fact, the actual time will likely be at 9AM on the 8th. I just wanted to commemorate the once in a lifetime moment that'll never come again with an entry. I was at a wedding, which was one of the most popular events to be at for a lot of people.

The wedding I attended was for Shelley's sister Shay (heh....if she knew I blogged she'll love that I nicknamed her that) and her long term (seven years...wow!) boyfriend. I know Shelley from the job and Shay and I befriended each other via Shelley when we bowled on a team together. Shay was getting on me about not keeping in touch with her (though it's a two-way street) and I promised I'd be better about it.

I even wound up sitting at table 7. I should've stopped and played the lottery yesterday.

The evening was cool, though I had my bored moments. There was the usual drama that weddings produce, most notably the music sucked rocks. I heard from another one of Shelley and Shay's sister's that the DJ was asking people at the party for CDs to play. But the food was great.

I had the worst neck pain yesterday too on my right side. It's weird how that pain comes from time to time in that same area. It hurts to even move it. The last time it happened that severe was last year. I wonder if I have a pinched nerve. I may have to get that checked.

Hemingway that was my Saturday night. I'm meeting Rock today for the first time in a couple weeks. We're going bowling and I want to find a forest preserve area (shouldn't be too hard) to do a quick walk. Then maybe we'll go for a bite to eat somewhere. Not necessarily in that order.

I'm That Type Of Guy

I'm That Type Of Guy - L.L. Cool J

You're the type of guy that can't control your girl
You try to buy her love with diamonds and pearls
I'm the type of guy that shows up on the scene
And gets the seven digits, you know the routine
You're the type of guy that tells her, "Stay inside"
While you're steady frontin in your homeboy's ride
I'm the type of guy that comes when you leave
I'm doin your girlfriend, that's somethin you can't believe
Cause I'm that type of guy

You're the type of guy that gets suspicious
I'm the type of guy that says, "The puddin is delicious"
You're the type of guy that has no idea
That a sneaky, freaky brother's sneakin in from the rear
I'm the type of guy to eat it, when he won't
And look in the places that your boyfriend don't
You're the type of guy to try to call me a punk
Now knowin that your main girl's bitin my chunk
I'm the type of guy that loves a dedicated lady
Their boyfriends are borin, and I can drive em crazy
You're the type of guy to give her money to shop
She gave me a sweater _kiss_ thank you, sweetheart
I'm that type of guy

I'm the type of guy that picks her up from work early
Takes her to breakfast, lunch, dinner, and breakfast
You're the type of guy eatin a tv dinner
Talkin about... "Goddamn it, I'ma kill her"
I'm the type of guy to make her say, "Why you're illin, Bee?"
...You're the type of guy to say, "My lower back is killin me"
...Catch my drift?
You're the type of guy that likes to drink Olde English
I'm the type of guy to cold put on a pamper
You're the type of guy to say, "What you talkin bout?"
I'm the type of guy to leave my drawers in your hamper
I'm that type of guy

I'm that type of guy
You know what I mean?
Check it out...

T-y-p-e g-u-y
I'm that type of guy to give you a pound and wink my eye
Like a bandit, caught me redhanded, took her for granted
But when I screwed her, you couldn't understand it
Cause you're the type of guy that don't know the time
Swearin up and down, "That girl's all mine"
I'm the type of guy to let you keep believin it
Go 'head to work, while I defrost it, and season it
I'm that type of guy

I'm that type of guy

Old school L.L. Gotta love him. He's as hot now as he was back then when this song came out.

Hemingway I recently was rereading a book I bought years back called Eat Right 4 Your Type. The basic premise of the book is that your blood type holds the key to optimal health, physical strength, and mental health.

I found out years back that I am a Type A. So I looked over at the various food lists to see what the book calls highly beneficial, neutral, and avoid for my type. I wasn't surprised to see foods such as beef, bacon, and cashews among other foods on the avoid list. But I was highly dismayed to see foods like crab, lobster, and shrimp on my avoid list. So I dismissed the diet as malarky since there's no way I was going to give up my seafood.

Recently though, I've been curious about rereading the book again.

I particularly honed in on the exercises recommended for Type A. Unfortunately lifting weights wasn't on the list (which could explain why despite going to the gym 4 days a week, I still don't have abs of steel like LL Cool J...*LOL*). According to the book, conventional exercises can cause excess stress to the immune system and over time weaken it. The recommendations were exercises that provide calm and focus. Exercises such s Tai Chi, Hatha Yoga, martial arts, dance, low impact aerobics, and even stretching are suggested. I did try some yoga early last year in the quest for more flexibility and I admit yoga's a lot harder than I thought it would be. Maybe it wouldn't be a bad idea to try it again. If the exercise claims are true, there goes my Bally's membership. *LOL*.

I may even try a Type A diet for a week or two to see if there's some theory in the claims. I know blood type is probably only one factor of many in determining how we respond to the foods we eat, but maybe blood type does play a role.

Has anyone ever tried eating for your blood type?

But I won't think about trying it until June sometime since my parents will be visiting me for a week starting tomorrow. I may post one more entry tomorrow before going to pick them up but if not, I hope everyone has a happy Memorial Day, which officially kicks off the summer season for me. Summer can't get here soon enough. Woo hoo!

Finding My Way Back To Food

I only have time for a quick message before getting ready to head back to work and eventually leave for my nine day excursion to three different cities.

As the title of this entry implies, I am getting myself back into the groove of eating solid foods. I made this big pot of veggie and bean soup Monday evening. I ate some of it on Tuesday evening, which was my first reintroduction to solid food. My stomach was growling for about twenty minutes after eating it. I was afraid I might vomit or have a sudden case of the runs. But I made it through the evening and pretty much everything stayed inside.

So this week I've pretty much been eating soup for lunch and dinner (and I still have plenty leftover that I'll unfortunately have to throw out). In addition to the soup, I also ate a couple breakfast bars (some of those are the bomb) and so far my stomach's been okay. I'm regular again as well (TMI, I know). I'm definitely ready for my trips.

Surprisingly I only gained back a pound so far. Then again other than the soup and breakfast bars, I haven't eaten much else. I have a feeling I'll gain most of it back during my vacation, even though I'm going to make an effort to work out while on vacation.

So Hemingway (haven't said that in a while, I think...*LOL*) I just wanted to post an update before I get going.

My biggest fear is leaving my work processes in the hands of other team members. I hope I don't come back to a bigger mess. But I have to let that go. I'll still carry my pager in case there's some emergency that they can't handle. However when I get back in the office, I'm going to put an emergency doc together so hopefully I won't be disturbed.

I wanna enjoy my birthday week. Yup I'll be the big 3-4 on Sunday. I'm old...:-)

So So Proud

I'm So Proud - By The Impressions

Prettier than all the world
And I'm so proud (I'm so proud)
I'm so proud of you
You're only one fellow's girl
And I'm so proud (I'm so proud)
Believe me, I love you too
I'm so proud of being loved by you
And it would hurt, hurt to know
If you ever were untrue
Sweeter than the taste of a cherry so sweet
And I'm so proud (I'm so proud)
I'm so proud of you
Compliments to you from all the people we meet
Yes, and I'm so proud (I'm so proud)
Believe me, I love you too
I'm so proud of being loved by you
I'm so proud of being loved by you
And it would hurt, hurt to know
If you ever were untrue
Sweeter than the taste of a cherry so sweet
And I'm so proud (I'm so proud)
I'm so proud of you
Compliments to you from all the people we meet
Yes, and I'm so proud (I'm so proud)
Believe me, I love you too
Sweeter than the taste of a cherry so sweet
And I'm so proud (I'm so proud)
I'm so proud of you
Compliments to you from all the people we meet
Yes, and I'm so proud (I'm so proud)
Believe me, I love you too

You know, except for the fact that I was a guy last time I checked and the lyrics are borderline cheesy, it pretty much sums up my own feelings tonight. I did it. Tonight ends Day 10 of my fast. Tomorrow begins the journey back to solid foods. (I'm so proud.)

I feel great. I've measured my blood pressure from time to time and on average, it's been on the lower side...my lowest reading was a 113/70. According to my inaccurate ass scale, I was 180 lbs before the MC. As of two minutes ago, I'm 166. That's a total of 14 pounds. I do realize that I'm going to gain half of it or more back. And that's fine. (I'm so proud.)

I just feel good that I set out to do the Master Cleanse for ten days and managed to make my goal. (I'm so proud.)

As an reward, I earlier bought my first Crock Pot and a new set of cookware from Faberware. I'm hoping the Crock Pot in particular helps me to cook better meals and have them nice and ready when I get home from work. The new cookware I was long overdue for after my cheap first set of cookware from Mirro (I got this when I first moved out on my own way back in 1995) started wearing out (years ago...*LOL*) It's so pretty. (I'm so proud.)

I'm so proud of me tonight. Oh well. Till next time.

Cabbage-Patching E

By the time this entry gets posted, I'll be in the middle of Day 3 on my Master Cleanse diet. I have to say with the exception of some occasional headaches that comes and goes and last night feeling a bit weak and my stomach borderline wanting to ache, so far the cleanse has been going.

I'm even getting used to the Salt Water Flush. This morning I pretty much drank the concoction without so much as feeling the urge to retch. It was almost second nature.

It's a little scary because I keep hearing how bad Day 3 is and actually it's not over yet so potentially I could be dying tonight. If I live, I'll keep you posted. :-)

But seriously so far it's going pretty good.

I'm not even too much tempted by food. Eugene put that temptation to the test Day 1. We were talking about the MC, which he's totally not feeling. So Hemingway I may have been getting a bit fresh with him and he asked if I was being smart with him. I told him maybe I was and maybe I wasn't. He took that as a yes and told me that there'll be repurcussions. I laughed and went whatever. We chatted a bit before he put me on hold.

Five minutes later I told him that I wasn't really trying to be smart. He then said the wheels were already in motion for the repurcussion. I wasn't sure what that meant but I was like whatever.

So he then asks me about Paypal and if he could send money to someone via Paypal if they had an email account set up. I told him that he could and then he said he wanted to test it by sending me a dollar. I was like, ok.

Before he could do that, there was a ring of my doorbell. Mind you it was after 8PM and I wasn't expecting anyone. I was all set to not answer it but Eugene's saying I need to get it and to bring my wallet. I'm wondering what's Eugene up to and when I open the door, I'm greeted by a person delivering Dominoes pizza.

Eugene's all teasing me as I'm telling the confused delivery man that I didn't order the pizza. Eugene insisted that it was paid for (he wasn't sure his credit card went through so that's why he wanted to send me money via Paypal) so not wanting to confuse the man further, I took the pizza. I ain't gonna lie, it smelled good. Then again since I hadn't had food at all today, anything would've smelled good. I even opened to box to satisfy my curiousity over what he ordered. It was a pepperoni with onions.

So Eugene's trying to get me to take a bite but the one saving grace is that I hate Dominoes pizza. I mean, I'll eat it if I have to but it's not my favorite pizza. So I just stuck it in my fridge and made some more limade (it did trigger my hunger pangs).

Earlier on Day 1, I was at my weekly meeting and the group is offering bagels and donuts. Luckily they were in another room so I wasn't tempted. Then later that day, Witty is suggesting that half our team go out to lunch next week to celebrate a project going in. I have to bite my tongue since I'm trying to keep my MC on the low. (Hmm, maybe I should write a book. *LOL*)

My only temptation Day 2 was my trip to Whole Foods to get more maple syrup (that's the only calories I'm getting on this cleanse so I've been lopping it up..*LOL*). I also decide to get some Daily-Dolphilus stuff. It supposedly replaces the good enzymes that are washed away during the flush. It took me a minute to find it and only with the insistence of a lovely young lady who was lightly flirting with me was I able to find it. She knew from the maple syrup and the general location where I was that I was doing the "detox". She then shared her woes about trying it but quitting after Day 1. But she's hopeful that she'll get back on it.

I do have to say I'm proud of myself for making it as far as I have. I truthfully wasn't sure if I'd make it past Day 1. A special thanks goes out to No_the_game (my honorary "fag hag" along with Sally...*LOL*) for her support as I'm going through it. I'm halfway through Day 3 now so hopefuly I'll keep pressing on. I'll keep you guys posted.

Insanity Personified

I teased about it in my last voice blog about doing the Master Cleanse and now I'm putting it into action. I can't believe I'm doing it but I got the limes (there was a sale of 12 for a dollar that I couldn't resist...*LOL*), cayenne pepper, grade B maple syrup, sea salt, and I need to get the laxative tea.

I first read about the MasterCleanse from the now defunct DizYaBoy's blog. I was amazed to hear how DizYaBoy's father did the cleanse for about a month & the favorable results he was getting. I was thinking...all he's drinking is lemonade with cayenne and maple syrup, how is that healthy? I don't remember him mentioning the Sea Water Flush (the sea salts contain a lot of the nutrients needed) and lemons actually have a lot of nutritional value.

I then read about Marlon making an attempt. Looking at his blog, led me to the MasterCleansers blog, where a group of folks created a blog to share their experiences on the cleanse.

This was all back in June and July.

Hemingway I've been doing lots of reading on different message boards such as The MC and Raw Foods Site. I've gotten a lot of informative information from there.

But I've been scared. Truth is, I don't know if I'll even make it past a day. I mean, can my hunger be curbed merely by this drink (and lots of water).

There's a lot of talk of what's called "detox symptoms". Things such as headaches, chills, tiredness, aches & pains, and general irritability that comes during the cleanse, which many recommend you do for 10 days minimum. The thought of having those freaks me out but is part of the deal, I suppose. It's said that most "detox symptoms" disappear after taking a dump.

Knowledge is power, though. That's why I've been reading up on it. So now I'm ready to give it a spin. My first day is tomorrow. I'll probably post either daily or periodical updates (assuming I don't quit Day 1...*LOL*) on how I'm feeling. I hope I can do this.

Now is probably as good of a time as any for me to start since my trips to Raliegh, Las Vegas, and Boston begin on October 13th. Wish me luck!

Track Of Songs

I received a challenge from my long-time friend "Stan" earlier today. A little brief history on Stan. He was one of the folks I had interview me when I was applying for a job way back in 1997. He's a brother whose family is originally from Haiti. Anyway I wound up getting the job and years later Stan would tell me that when I met him that day, I was talking all "street" going "Yo, what's the dealio, bro" and slang like that (ok fine, I wasn't hip...*LOL*)but as soon as I got the job, I was all prim and proper with him. We would always laugh whenever recalling that time. Perhaps I was thinking he'd relate to me more if I was, umm, "down". Stan no longer works at my company instead devoting himself full-time into real estate and being his own boss. However, we've kept our friendship over the years, which I've grown to treasure.

So Hemingway (my dorky way of saying anyway), I was telling him how I was getting back into the gym and stuff. He then asked me if I ever ran across Bally's track. I never had. I don't know why, really, but I always seemed intimidated by that track, instead opting for the safety and anonymity of the treadmill. I always felt like when you're on the track, you're putting yourself out on display for all the other folks doing stationary weight exercises. I like blending into the background as opposed to being seen. We were talking some more and then he dared me to run 3-5 times around the track. I was a bit nervous but I accepted.

As I got to the gym, I realized that one time around the track wasn't technically equal to a mile. I talked to one of the folks working there and she told me going about 10-11 times around would equal 1 mile. I'm inclined to think 10.

So I put my very cool Rio MP3 player on and as I laid my Pretty Brown Eyes on the gray track area, I took a deep breath and realized Me, Myself, and I would be the only one that could accomplish this goal. I said to myself, 'Float like a Butterfly, sting like a bee' and before I can say Sussudio ten times backwards, I'd reach my goal. I walked a lap to feel out the terrain. Then I began to run Back & Forth around the track. Around lap 4, my pager fell out from my side pocket. 'It's Not Right But It's Ok', I said to myself as I went back to pick it up. I wound up going 13 laps before realizing I Don't Want To not Live To Tell Stan about my accomplishment. One Thing I have to say. I love my MP3 player.

Today was a pretty cool day. We had our annual company outing at Navy Pier. We had lunch inside a cruise ship called the Odyssey. I was pleasantly surprised by the menu choices, which include roasted duck, lobster ravioli, and other fine dishes. As much stress as I've been having at work, I definitely needed the break. Although when we got back at 3:30, I went back to work until 6:30. Such a dedicated employee! I know Rich Dad, Poor Dad author Robert Kiyosaki wouldn't approve...*LOL*. Sorry.

I was a bit bummed to realize I'm only getting $3200 back between the state and federal government. I was also annoyed with the $351 fee the H&R block lady charged me for doing my returns, which will eat into my refund. I would've argued about it but I sorta went there on company time Wednesday and was in a rush to get out. At least now I know how to do the Schedule C myself and won't need assistance next year. There's always a bright side...*LOL*.

When Desperation Cries

My first thoughts when seeing this title was that it was quite deep. Webster has two definitions on desperation. Definition #1 - the condition of being desperate. Okay. Definition #2 - recklessness arising from despair. These days, if you hear the word desperate, the first thing on most people's minds is Desperate Housewives. You know, it's that crazy ABC show that's one of their biggest hits. Sigh. I ain't even gonna lie. I watched that shit every Sunday, even though I'm still not over ABC dicking The Mole, the absolute most perfect reality show out there. Bless ABC's hearts for still having the link up. Ahhh, memories. On that note:


Congratulations! You are Edie Britt, the serial divorcee whose romantic conquests have everyone buzzing.

Which Desperate Housewife are you?
brought to you by Quizilla

Heh! I doctored my answers so that it'd point to Edie. She's definitely my favorite. ABC, you're still not off the hook.

So back to the title. When Desperation Cries is the story of a young black girl growing up during the Great Depression of the 30s who gets kidnapped by an evil employer and is forced into slavery at said employer's house for six years, instead of the two weeks the employer told her family. It goes through the trials and turbulations of this young girl and how she eventually was able to make her escape. I bought the book a month ago from one of my college buddies whose aunt is the author of the book. His published aunt, Erin Cummings, wrote the story based on what her mother, the young girl in the story, told her. I hadn't the opportunity to read it until a couple days ago. I wasn't able to put the book down at all, except to go to sleep or...work. The characters just jump out at you and you find yourself cheering for Ruthie. I wish I were Oprah. I can wave my hands and say...."I command you. Buy this book. NOW!" And millions of her followers would do so. But I'm just eric g. from around the way. I have to say, though, on the off chance that I have any influence of anyone, you simply must buy it. Umm, now!

I worked out again tonight. I made it through okay, even though I was a bit tired towards the end. I came home and immediately tried some Miracle Greens. Yes, it arrived earlier today. I decided to do half a serving since I didn't want to shock my body too much. I mixed it in plain water. It tasted okay, though I may not have mixed it enough since it was pretty chalky as I reached my final gulp. It's too early to tell whether I feel different or not. I'll probably know after a few days, I guess.

Ironically desperation drove me to Miracle Greens. My doctor claims that I'm 100% healthy. My bp average as of last Friday was 134/79 Pulse 70, which is okay. When I got it checked at the office, it was 116/82. I just don't know what to think. I'd feel better about his claim if I didn't feel like I was being rushed through. He dismissed pretty much all my theories on causes (other than stress, which I honestly don't think is the culprit since I've always been stressed.) and even frowned when asked what I did to reduce the stress. I told him I drank 2-3 cups of green tea. I guess he doesn't believe in alternative medicine. So I didn't even tell him I was considering Super Greens.

I'm just going to take things one day at a time. That's all you can do. If I drop dead tomorrow, I'm so haunting my doctor. *LOL*.

Get It Back

I went to the gym for the first time in two weeks yesterday. I have to admit it was nice being back. With everything happening to me lately, including not being able to finish my last workout and feeling like passing out, going back was really cool. I did about 50 minutes on the treadmil, almost half of that time speed walking. I also did 20 minutes of abs & another 25 minutes of leg exercises.

Funny thing was my pulse remained in the 90 zone hours after my workout. (It peaked at 157 during my workout session.) But when I woke up this morning, it was back in the 70s.

I thought about going today but decided to not push it and just go tomorrow. I'm looking to do three times a week & gradually introduce the fourth day back.

The odd thing is I learned that my one other co-worker that's into exercising and nutrition also had some unexplained blood pressure issues. Ironically he sits across from me. Maybe it's something in the air. Hmmmm.

I finally made an appointment with H&R to do my taxes. As you may or may not know, I didn't turn my taxes in on 04/15. I have to file a Schedule C and basically I was confused about some of the rules. Work got pretty hectic and well I wound up filing an extension. I need to gather all my documents, including last year's tax returns, and give them to my advisor on Wednesday. I just hope I get at least $5000 back. :-) Then I can put that into some stocks.

Amazing Amazon

I gotta love Amazon.com. You can get just about anything from them. I love them almost as much as Overstock. I placed an order for Miracle Greens and can't wait to try it out.