To my friends - Enjoy

I had to go out with a Janet song! Enjoy!

Happy New Year!

Wake up 7 am
Bout time we do it again
Sushine today
I better make plans
Cause it rained yesterday
But that was ok
Cant complain
I love it either way

Living everyday like it's my last
I refuse to be stuck in the past
People actin like machines
Cause they're scared to live their dreams
No not me

I just enjoy and celebrate
Enjoy the love we make
Enjoy, appreciate
Enjoy
Just keep on doing it
'Til my hearts content
And enjoy when someone smiles
Enjoy
So just enjoy the simple things
Enjoy the day life brings
Enjoy the song love sings
Enjoy
Just keep on doing it
'Til your hearts content
And enjoy the gift of life
Enjoy

If you wanna find the paradise
Do it now never too late to try
Lose your inhibitions
Let your inspiration set you free

And just enjoy and celebrate
Enjoy the love we make
Enjoy, appreciate
Enjoy
Just keep on doing it
'Til my hearts content
And enjoy when someone smiles
Enjoy
So let's enjoy the simple things
Enjoy the day life brings
Enjoy when someone sings
Enjoy
Just keep on doing it
'Til your hearts content
And enjoy the gift of life
Enjoy

And the people say

Enjoy la la la la la [Repeat]

I just enjoy and celebrate
Enjoy the love we make
Enjoy, appreciate
Enjoy
Just keep on doing it
'Til my hearts content
And enjoy when someone smiles
Enjoy
So just enjoy the simple things
Enjoy the day life brings
Enjoy the song love sings
Enjoy
Just keep on doing it
'Til your hearts content
And enjoy the gift of life
Enjoy

Enjoy la la la la la [Repeat]

Last Day of 2007

If you're a fan of numerology like me than you know that 2007 translated to a nine year. That's a year of endings in preparation for next year's new beginnings.

I spent a lot of time this year

• blogging
• reading
• writing

For my birthday in January I finally got the laptop I had been waiting to get. It was black, soft and perfect. I had been without a good computer for a long time. This time I had the latest and greatest and was in heaven. I got so much joy out of being mobile! In May I decided to give blogging a chance and blogged about what was on my mind. In late May, I discovered Hadi's blog. It's similar to mine, but with much better photography. His blog became essential reading for me for the second half of the year. Even now, I miss our regular posts, but that will change when my schedule settles down.

So in 2007 I found a new friend and rediscovered that I need to cultivate a love I've had for a long time. This year I will find the best way to do that.

Many thanks this year goes out to:

• Mom - your voice is one of the most calming things on Earth
• B - My brother, I love you. Being friends for almost fourteen years means that even in silence we speak volumes.
• E - The Globe trotter. You've got to take me with you sometime Daddy!
  
• Peter and Pinoyboy - Keep doing what you're doing!
• Strawberry - You keep giving and giving!
• T & B - Nine years together! You give me hope. Enjoy your iMac
  
• My crew - See you in NYC for my birthday party at Rosa Mexicano
• Ro - you are one of the coolest women I know that I call friend. See you in 2008
• Blackberry - cause you keep me in touch

Big hugs and love to all. May you find that light inside no matter how small. Please, don't keep it to yourself! Let it shine!

Love,
kevin

Sunday Chores

Why was I up until 6:30am this morning trying to configure my printer to print wirelessly. It still didn't work. I got up at 1:30pm and started cleaning. The Laundromat is so packed I'm going to wait until this morning around midnight to start the four loads of laundry.

Whew!

Naked Boys Singing

So my roommate got this through Netflicks. It's quite interesting. Men naked, singing, and after while you get used to the nudity. I mean it's parts we all have or know about hopefully. It's fun and light and you shouldn't take it seriously.

With that said, there's one song, "Send for me" that's about two men offering themselves to each other and they have interpretive dance naked. I was like hmmmm. I was with them up until the dance.

Oh well, I'm sure they made lots of money.

The best part of it was the Special Features with the making of the movie. Talk about drama!

Lov eB Scott

I found this from a friend. He dropped some upsetting news about the R & B group B2K.

I love all the creativity out there.

A Moment

Yes, it's been a while since I last posted. I've had a crazy week. See ya soon.

Christmas Wish List

Giving gifts to someone you care about is thoughtful and should be done out of love instead of obligation. Too many times I hear that people are exhausted by all the shopping and enormous debt they're mounting. My prayers go out to them.

I love this quote:

"Blessed are those who can give without remembering and take without forgetting."

That said, below is a list of things I will get myself. I already sent my letter to Santa!

Happy Holidays! :-)

iTunes gift card (I hate buying songs str8 from my credit card)
Panasonic PVGS320 Camcorder
iPod Touch
Aliph Jawbone headset
Rock & Republic jeans
Speakers for my Computer
Nintendo Wii (I know I'm so late)
Samsung LN-T3253H HDTV
Jamba Juice gift card

Self-Identity...in Chelsea?

The LGBT community, like the rest of society discriminates based on the physical. I've lived in two different LGBT "meccas" and I have to say with both of them are very segregated and not very welcome to outsiders. This segregation isn't only regulated to ethnicity, but "social status" as well.

Most of New York you can feel comfortable hanging out in, but in Chelsea there's no doubt that you're surrounded with LBGT folk. I've felt a sense of camaraderie with some black folk here in nyc, where that differs is in places like Chelsea. I'm a fan of Chelsea and it's coffee shops, bars and new computer store on 14th street and 9th Avenue. There's one experience that happens occasionally with black men I've seen in Chelsea...rudeness that could be construed as self hatred on their part. Here's a scenario.

I'm walking down the street and I see group of guys. In that group is a man of color (Black, African American). I say hello to the group and the black man makes a point not to acknowledge me even if his friends (all white) do. It's happened more than one, two or three times with different black men. I wasn't coming on to them, but nodded to say hi. They just continued forward purposefully ignoring me. The video put it beautifully. Did they felt that I would take away their prominence with their group of white friends? Go figure!

I'm still on that long journey of self love and acceptance, but one thing I know is that dating a white man doesn't take away or add to who you are. Who he is as a person does. I would like to find a supportive, easy going and affectionate individual. I doubt I would see that person right now, with my attitude, but that's another story.

All my life I've had friends of different backgrounds and have been accused of being a snow queen, Republican conservative all because certain people have only seen me with white folk. Oh boy! Maybe those black men that I've seen around Chelsea, think I'm judging them. I say, get over it! Get some thicker skin! Move to the burbs! This is New York City!

Where do we go from here...it saddens me that men of color don't see the beauty they possess because of the constant comparing to someone else's standard. I'll never have a 29 waist. My body isn't built that way! I love my skin can wear any color!

My note to people: Look at than man in the mirror! Learn to love him and make the world a better place.

Britney 20/20

Here's the segment from 20/20. It's an interesting montage. I'm not a huge Britney fan, but I like the sound of her new stuff.

Capricorn this week

Among modern Baghdad's most prominent architectural features are its blast walls. These omnipresent concrete barriers shield buildings from truck bombs and random gunfire. They were nothing but oppressive eyesores up until a few months ago, when a team of 40 artists began covering them with brightly colored murals that depict idyllic landscapes and glorious scenes from Iraqi history. Your next assignment, Capricorn, is to try an equivalent conversion. Add beauty to something ugly; bring a light touch and a creative spirit to a troublesome situation; dress up your defense mechanisms in silk and gold.

Is it telling me to be false or look on the bright side?

2nd Single

Britney,

Good choice for a second single. Here's a quick look at the preview. Tomorrow night it will premiere on 20/20.

Update: ABC pulled the content from You Tube. In the meantime you can listen to the song and watch a video montage from Rebellion4Britney3.

Miss J if you're nasty

Janet has leaked a new single, Feedback, to radio. It's nice and sounds a lot like some of Britney's new stuff. Click the link. What do you think?

Feedback, the new single

Supposedly, the new single is produced by either Danjahandz, Timbaland’s protege, who produced the bulk of Britney’s new album - or Rodney Jerkins. I have to say it sounds familiar to Britney's.

This is a brand new pic from press for the new album, Discipline, to be released in the USA February 26th. It's fierce!!

Three Urinals

Urinals get us in and out of the restroom. I don't like them very much, but use them when I have to get in and out.

In our washroom we have two private washrooms, six stalls and three urinals. Urinals that are next to each other. That's important because out of the three urinals no one ever uses the middle one.

I thought it would be sanitary to use the middle one, since it's the least used. I love observing behavior and seeing guys head to the stall instead of using the urinal next to me is amazing. The only place that doesn't happen is during intermission of a show.

Tomorrow I will ask some interior architects that I work with about why they place three urinals together when men don't like to pee that close to each other.

Any thoughts?

Se, jie...

or Lust, Caution

I saw this movie Tuesday night and loved it. I walked in thinking I would be seeing a soft core porn movie and yes, there was lots of sex. Sex that furthered the plot, which is the best kind.

Without giving away too much, who would have thought the show centered around a company of actors. Thumbs up!!

Ang Lee is a master of establishing relationships, through his sense of detail. He's also an gifted storyteller, which is the most important part to being a director for me. The writer's vision has to be communicated to an audience and that's the director's job. An exceptional director will peal back layer after layer organically, revealing a wonder work of art. Mr. Lee is one of my favorite actors. Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon to the masterpiece Brokeback Mountain, Ang Lee show's how it's supposed to be done. If it wasn't for my other favorite director (Tim Burton) releasing a movie based on my favorite musical of all time I would say he should win the Best Director Oscar again.

Tall Milk no Coffee

I was craving a hot chocolate after my salad so I walked in the freezing rain (yes freezing rain) to Starbucks. I order my grande hot chocolate with "whip" and waited over by the barista. That's when the magic happened...

This wet woman (she had no umbrella) in a wool coat comes in and asks one of the barista for a cup. He looks at her for a moment hands her a "tall" one. She processed to the the exit station that's filled with cream, skim or regular milk coolers. She takes one and fills it up. I'm not sure which one she took because I wanted to be discreet. On top of that she goes back to the barista and without asking puts her wet mits on lids looking for that one that will fit her tall cup of milk. The barista rushes over and gets the correct top for her. She rushes over to the exit station, puts it on the cup and exits, with no umbrella. By this time it's raining harder than it was earlier! What is her story?

Nope, she paid for nothing. I didn't know Starbucks was giving away free milk.

Gym Tonight

I wish I could have taken pictures of the men at the gym. To give you an idea of the men there, check out Alex Rodriguez.

Why don't I go more often?

My Guilty Pleasure

I watch this show. There I said it. It is crazy. The things that come out of these people's mouths.

It makes for great television. Do they know that this video will be out there forever.

Over the Rainbow

I just had to throw show this. Not the best performance of the song by any means, but note to the "new" divas out there, wear a gown stay in one place and sing!

Counting the minutes

...till I'm out of work.

Today just isn't the day. I'm in one of those Capricorn moods. What I find so irritating is that when people know you're in a bad mood they love to come over to your desk and say, "What's wrong?". I just want to yell, when they do that, but I just do a calm...

"I'm fine, how are you?

That just turns it all back on them, so they can talk until they get the hint and leave.

Rarely do they care about what's wrong they just want to show some half ass concern!

I say keep it to yourself!! Let me be!!

Thou Shall Kiss Old Flame

This happened a while ago, but I'd thought I'd share...finally.

I went home for Thanksgiving, Tuesday to Sunday. I emailed "G" (I've written about him before) when i arrived and a day later got a call from him. We chit chatted for a bit until he said,

"What are you doing"?
I thought, "I'm talking to you", but said, "nothing".

He proceeded to say that he was swinging by my mom's house to pick me up so that we could take a drive. It took him about a half hour to get there in this big black luxury car. When he saw me coming he put the car in park got out to give me a big hug. We hadn't seen each other in person in about seven years. We drove and drove while talking and "catching up". During this time I was thinking, "what if". He was aging so beautifully and still had that "thing" that attracted me to him back in 1999 at the singles party

We get back to my mom's house and he stops in front of the driveway with the car running. Oh I forgot he put on Luther Vandross. Luther added a nice calming and alluring atmosphere in the car. The passenger seat was reclined a bit and I was relaxed. He then touches my leg and asks for a kiss. He really didn't have to ask...

I had to ask myself if kissing him was okay. He's in a relationship, but this would be the closure I was looking for (well i would have wanted more but that's another story). I felt like I was in high school. He leaned over and we kissed for a minute (a good minute). We looked forward in his car in front of my childhood home and thought, "what now". We talked for about a half hour or more and then I really had to go before someone called the police. Our neighbors call the police if see strange cars parked for extended periods of time.

I can't say that was it. Before I got out, I asked for one more and we went at it for a bit longer. It was great, but sad. For a long time I thought G was the one that got away. Now, I know he was the right one at the right time. I don't know if the chapter is closed on us, but at least we've moved on to a different one.

Spring 2008....I'm taking the day off

I gasped when I saw it. My favorite TV show is coming to the movies!

Dirty Laundry

A friend of mine produced this movie. Congrats to him! I'm seeing it tomorrow day! Gotta support!

Oh no!

I feel it. The starts of a cold. My throat is a little sore. Dang!

Of course when people find you're coming down with a cold they have suggestions on how you can feel better. Keep them coming. In the meantime, I'll rest and drink lots of liquid.

Sweeney Todd Premiere

This is for you B. We all know that Johnny Depp is starring in the title role, but who would have known that one of the best villians on TV today was at the premiere in New York.

Why wasn't I invited...lol


We can't forget Cheyenne!

The master himself, Stephen Sondheim.

Morning Rant

It is DISGUSTING to clip your nails on, in or around the subway car at any time especially during rush hour. First of all, if you're doing it at all you have no common sense or home training. Secondly, you have no thought for others and are probably self centered. The subway car is a public place.

Let me break it down for you...

• NO ONE wants to hear you clip and clip in order to get that perfect shape. The sound is annoying.
• NO ONE wants to see your clippings on the floor after you've gotten off at your stop. THAT'S DISGUSTING!!!!!!!
• NO ONE wants to hit you in the face if one of those stray nails hits them in the face. Just the thought of it gets me heated!!!!

CLIP YOUR NAILS IN THE PRIVACY OF YOUR OWN HOME!!!

Saturday Shopping Tour

I walked and walked Saturday to different stores. I like to shop in stages.

1. Comb area
2. Comparison Shop
3. Budget
4. Buy

This weekend was about combing the area and seeing what's out there. I went all over. I went to Union Square's gift festival (I don't know what's it called) and saw some interesting stuff, but nothing too interesting. Could they have had anymore people selling knit scarves and hats. I thought it was overkill.

Bloomingdales was a let down when it came to shoes. Normally, I've been pleasantly surprised by their shoe collection, but this time I was underwhelmed. They did have Uggs for men! Gross, I hate them on women much less men. I found that what Blommies is good for was jeans! It's like a one stop shop. I live in a very good area for shopping because New Yorkers not only have Saks, Barneys, Bloomies, Bendels, Jeffrey and the amazing Bergdorf Goodman, but most designers have a store(s) dedicated to their merchandise i.e. G Star, Diesel, Tom Ford, D & G.

I'm on a hunt to find the right jean for me and my body. So, while I wear my hot new jeans I will talk my new jawbone headset...lol

D Squared

I miss fashion shows like this. Wow! The clothes are barely there, but the production is incredible!

First Snow

First Snow
Originally uploaded by kevinholdenpics

Look at the snow! If this is any sign, then we'll have a lot more of it. As I type around midnight Monday morning the rain it taking it away.

5th Avenue

5th Avenue
Originally uploaded by kevinholdenpics

Do we need a new Gucci Store? There's already one on Madison a few blocks away! They already have a store on 54th Street.

Tiffany & Co.

Tiffany & Co.
Originally uploaded by kevinholdenpics

Makes you just want to buy some jewelry, right.

5th Avenue is just magical this time of year. The decorations and energy can't help but put you in the mood.

Happy Holidays!

Christmas Tree

Christmas Tree
Originally uploaded by kevinholdenpics

I did it. I got a picture of the Christmas Tree before the 25th!

First Fruits Holiday

I find that during the Christmas holiday season I need to connect to something spiritual. I'm not a religious person, but I am a spiritual one and Kwanzaa seems like a means to connect to the source. First Fruits is the meaning of Kwanzaa FYI. I just learned that.

It's such an involved process. There's the ceremony and language that I'm excited about.

The colors of Kwanzaa are
black - people
red - struggle
green - future and hope

There are seven candles placed in the kinara (three red, one black and three green)

Black = Umoja (unity)

Red =

• Kujichagulia (self-determination)
• Ujamaa (cooperative economics)
• Kuumba (creativity)

Green =

• Ujima (collective work and responsibility)
• Nia (purpose)
• Imani (faith)

The black candle is lit first followed by the red then green. This procedure is to indicate that the people come first, then the struggle and then the hope that comes from the struggle.

So, that's the plan. I have to get fabric, candles, etc.

I'll keep you posted.

Last One...maybe

This was so funny. My mouth was dropped that they actually had this on their website. Hulu may not be so bad after all.

Enjoy!

This Never Gets Old

He won an Emmy!

Hulu (Family Guy)

So, I got a passcode and I do have to say this is cute. Who would have thought that I could post a whole episode of the Family guy (with commercials). I'm a little baffled that it doesn't fit the page correctly. Oh well.

Tis the Season

Can you believe the holidays are here? For me the holidays aren't officially here until A Charlie Brown Christmas airs. I'll watch the DVD tomorrow and shed a tear.

Holiday gift giving is great, but I don't believe in giving gifts because of a society says so. I believe in exchanging gifts with a few people and being thankful for the gifts given during the year. That said, I do give gifts (if possible financially). I refuse propel myself in debt because I want to "save face".

That said, this Saturday I'm going to do some window shopping. Hitting these spots is the goal.

G Star (jeans that fit my ____)
• Adidas (shoes)
• Barney's (shoes)
• Uni Qlo (everything)
• Union Square vendors
• Blommingdales (shoes)
• Best Buy (HDTV's)
• Zara (coats)
• Banana Republic (coats)
• West Elm (towels)
• Century 21 (undergarments) ;-)

Will I hit all of them? I'm not sure, but hopefully I will a take some good pics of Christmas in New York.

Gift to Myself

So the gift for myself this year will be a headset. My mom has been complaining since I got my Blackberry about the background noise when she's talking to me. I can see how that's frustrating. I've narrowed down a two choices.

Aliph Jawbone Bluetooth headset

or

Plantronics Discovery 665 Bluetooth

Looks like the clear winner is the Aliph Jawbone. It's a little bigger than I would have expected, but I've heard their noise cancelling software has no match. The plantronics is smaller, but if I'm going to buy a headset and spend at least $80. I need to go all the way.

The little show that could

Dexter is this offbeat, moody, but radiant show on Showtime. It's about a serial killer...yeah that you actually root for. He kills for a reason. A criminal with a conscience. Last season focused on another killer rampage in Miami, who turned out to be Dexter's brother. This season the Feds are pursing him, but don't know it. The twist is that he works for the Police Department.

Showtime has my vote for provocative well produced, written and acted shows. Weeds, The Tudors and Dexter are some of the best shows on television.

"Relationships don't work...

"until they do".

That's from The Savage Love podcast. When I discovered the Village Voice back in the 90's I started reading Dan's column. He's crass, vulgar and to the point regarding the sex/relationship advice that he gives. I was looking through iTunes to find a new podcast and found his show. It's great.

I have friends that go in and out of relationships and I admire their courage. Sometimes it works out and sometimes it doesn't. Hopefully, you have a lot of fun along the way.

The pic if from thislife.org and it's of Dan, his partner (Terry Miller) and their child. Cute family!

Janet's Coming...Again

According to the rumor sites. Janet's album will drop around February. I'm so excited. Here's a note to Janet...

Janet,

I've loved you so since I was seven years old. I've watched your tv shows, movies and been to your concerts. With that said, I was a little disappointed with your last album. I loved seeing your all over the place, but it didn't feel like the album was really you, except for "Enjoy".

I hear you're coming out with a new album. I have a few suggestions for you to take in consideration.

• One, sing out, project your voice.
• Two, stop singing about sex.

There I said it. Love you and can't wait until February!

Doggie Withdrawal

I'm back in NYC and going through Tong Tong withdraw. I have to share this cute pic.

Isn't she lovely. She had a great time playing in the yard I used to play in when I was little.

Hope to see her soon.

Happy Thanksgiving

Take a look around and be grateful for your...

• home
• electricity
• computer
• food
• clothes
• water

That's just to name a few. If you're reading this, I'm grateful. I blog to share.

Again, Happy Thanksgiving.

I don't know what to think

Kanye's mom was having unnecessary surgery and something tragic happened. That's not the issue, but why would the doctor come on Larry King Live to tell him that he won't speak to him. Maybe to save face, be respectful or his first step in the imminent court case.

I wish people would just let the West family grieve in piece.

One of the Sexiest

I agree! click the link!

Home

I made it home with no problem. We stopped at various rest stops. I should have taken pictures, but I just was loving hanging with her. She was so good. She took the ride pretty well. We had one hard stop when she fell, but other than that it was pretty smooth. It took a while because we stopped twice for about thirty minutes. We left New York around 1:09pm and arrived at my mom's around 7:15pm.

Tong Tong is going to be the second dog at the house. The first is a beautiful Schnauzer named Duchess and up until last night I had never seen her upset or aggressive. Well, she was pretty aggressive with Tong Tong. I had to take control. Duchess had to adjust and get used to another addition to the family. Time will tell. If it doesn't work out then I will bring her back to New York.

I'm pretty down about giving up Tong Tong. When I first picked her up I was overwhelmed, but I just fell for her. She's affectionate, curious and fun. She's a joy. I'll miss her when I go back.

A dog is definitely in my future!

My Day Off

Today we went to the park. I was nervous about taking her to the dog run, but she behaved beautifully. She loves meeting new dogs and loves to walk. We spent about an hour there and she was a trooper!

I have to keep reminding myself that I can't keep her for these reasons:

I out of the apartment 12 hours a day or longer.
I don't get home until late during the week.
I'll have to hire a dog walker.

When I picked her up last night, I felt this big weight of responsibility. I thought that I would drop her etc., but as the time goes by I feel this protectiveness over her.

Well, tomorrow I pick up the car and start driving to my mom's house. Wish me luck!

She's Home...for now

Oh my gosh, I'm in love...with a beautifully sweet West Highland Terrier named Tong Tong. I don't want to give her to my mom. She's adorable.

I actually may keep her.

Another Videocast, but this time it's good.

Veronica Belmont does it again. I like her style, so I had to giver her a shout. I would prefer she stuck with computers, but this was informative.

Scattered Brain

So much is on my mind. If you haven't noticed, my posts have been pretty erratic and unfocused. Here's what I'm thinking about.

• Picking up dog
• Dog's adjustment period
• Driving home with dog
• Doggy proofing my apartment
• Holidays
• Bills (why did my credit cards up my limits?)
• Dwindling free time and DVR space.
• Spending time with Mom, family and friends in four/five days

I'm starting to put things in lists and prioritize, etc. It's helping. Tonight, I'm either going to see Imitation of Life or home. Friday, I've got to rest for a busy weekend of fun, but work. I don't think I'll sleep in until Monday.

Like I always say, after Halloween you might as well say Happy New Year!

Bobby Cannavale

I'm surprised it took me so long to give a "shout out" to this dude. He's currently on Broadway in Mauritus. I won't get a chance to see but at least I can glance at this picture from the Advocate's October 23rd issue.

Marc @ Out 100

Go Marc. I wish him well. Look at him cheesing! It gives me hope.

Renting a Car

Question, why do rental car companies charge drop off fees for one way rentals?

Goodness! I just want to travel one way to my hometown (I have to bring my mom's birthday gift/dog). If anyone knows of a better deal, let me know. It's coming up to almost $250 for a one day, one way rental. What a rip off and waste of money!

Office Temperature

I just have to vent.

I'm at work; sitting at my desk. It's warm. Last week it was cold. The week before it was hot. Do you see a pattern? When our office was being built and the temperature control was discussed the "powers that be" thought it was too much money to install a thermostat.

Because of their lack of vision (think of how the Emperor says it in Return of the Jedi), the employees suffer. I say keep it cold and bring a sweater to work. I don't like to sweat.

Oh well, back to work and listening to podcasts

Dark Sided

I'm sure you've seen this. If not, enjoy. I was at dinner this evening at Applebees and me and my friend B were cracking up about this.

DVR Dilemma

I have a problem. My DVR can't tape more than two shows at once. I record 30 Rock and Smallville during the 8 o'clock hour. The show is so good now. The clip below proves it!

Tong Tong

Tong Tong
Originally uploaded by kevinholdenpics

Interesting story. A coworker is going back to hear country due to her status in this country. She has two terriers and is only taking one back. She so graciously is giving me one of her dogs. What an honor! I'm actually giving it to someone who I know will love and take care of it...my mom!

Happy Birthday Mom!

Rockefeller Tree

Rockefeller Tree
Originally uploaded by kevinholdenpics

On my way to work I saw the tree. It's going to be a big one!

Closing....C.L.O.S.I.N.G

It's a sad day. Spelling Bee is one of my favorite shows. It started as an improv downtown, moved to Off Broadway and then Broadway. I saw it two times and loved it every time.

Spelling Bee’ Ends Run

By CAMPBELL ROBERTSON

Published: November 8, 2007

After three years in New York, two and a half of them on Broadway at the Circle in the Square Theater, “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” is closing. The musical, which opened on Broadway on May 2, 2005, after a sold-out engagement Off Broadway at Second Stage Theater, will end its run on Jan. 20. It won two Tony Awards and will have played 121 previews and 1,136 regular performances. . ... Second Stage has announced that Alice Ripley (“Side Show”) and Brian d’Arcy James (“The Apple Tree”) will play the lead roles in “Next to Normal,” a new musical by Tom Kitt and Brian Yorkey starting performances there on Jan. 16.

Never going to Europe

At least not until I'm extremely wealthy. One pound for every two dollars??? That's crazy. The US is worth nothing. Our currency and administration is just so mismanaged. It's embarrassing.

Xanadu Goes Public

I've never heard this happening before. I guess Broadway is making someone a lot of money, wish it was me.

Check out Cheyenne Jackson...looking oh so pretty!

Hair Video

This is why You Tube is so useful and important. Short bursts of creative video. Enjoy

His Royal Highness

I found this and had to post. I can't wait for the wedding. Nice to see he has a sense of humor.

The photo is from a new book from photographer Alison Jackson entitled Alison Jackson: Confidential

Tuesday Evening

I left work this evening with the intention of getting home, going over Midsummer, gym, then laundry. It didn't work that way.

I was standing on the train platform for about fifteen minutes during rush hour, which is unheard of. Instead of waiting for the packed uptown train I got the bright idea of taking the downtown train so that I could catch an uptown train that might not be so packed. I went all the way to Brooklyn, while going over my script and on the back uptown I fell asleep.

I got home, got on the computer (big mistake) and went to store to pick up some laundry detergent. By that time it was 8:45pm and fuck it the gym was not going to happen.

Here I am on a Tuesday night, full from my chicken and broccoli and in a weird mood. I just saw a guy I went to school with on Guiding Light! I'm happy for him, but....IT PISSES ME OFF!!

Mile 11

Williamsburg Race
Originally uploaded by kevinholdenpics

What a weekend! I had two friends run in the marathon, but missed both on the route on Sunday because I forgot to register online to track them via the web. I've never watched the runners before, but I will from now on. The energy, momentum and determination was palpable and infectious.

I went to Williamsburg, Brooklyn near North 7th Street and moved to the sidewalk edget. I heard this woman next to me yelling names of runners. I didn't understand how she knew all those people until I saw that some runners had their names on their clothing. She would see a name and yell, "Go Doug, etc." They would smile, look up and keep going.

I have so much respect for that journey (I'm always about the journey). I don't know anyone in this shot, but I thought it was a great representation of what I saw.

26 Miles...wow!! Congrats to all that ran.

Midsummer's Night's Dream

I'm doing a reading next week and I'm playing Lysander the mortal that it's in love Hermia one minute and because of a drug is tricked into loving the detested Helena. Most of Shakespeare's source material is from other works or events, but his skilsl lie in his brilliant storytelling and use of language. English was a "new" sort of language back then and he was one of the first to use it so eloquently.

Midsummer is one of my favorites because of the questions it asks.

• Is love a spell that can be broken?
• How important is intention?
• Is love changeable?
• How does being loved change us?
• How does being rejected change us?
• Is there a place for pride in love?

I remember the first time I was kissed. It happened in a dorm room with no warning. I looked down and when I put my head up...boom! Being found attracted changed how I carried myself. Because I was a larger child (5'10" & 280lbs) I didn't think I was very attractive compared to other in my peers, so I never tried to be noticed. I didn't shop unless it was through catalogs. The kiss was great, but the person it was attached to turned out to be a complete jerk. Oh well, at least I got something out of it.

When the tables are turned and Helena is loved by Lysander and Demetrius she is confused and rejects their love because she knows that love does not turn on a dime. She rightly thinks it's a prank. Meanwhile Hermia, always the object of men's attention, is dumbfounded by Lysander's rejection.

Interesting how expectations are so closely tied to how and who we love.

The photo is by Photo/Michal Daniel and from New York Public Theatre's production of Midsummer Night's Dream this summer. It's Helena and Lysander.

3,857

Let's not forget...ever!

The total number of U.S. military deaths in Iraq stands at 3,857

Bulge Video

Why am I up at 1:39am and on You Tube. This one is funny though. Enjoy!

Speedmasons

This was created by a friend in Cali. He's a producer, writer, comedian. I'm so happy for him. Check it out!

The Ritz

It got mixed reviews and some people thought it was terrible, but I liked it. I didn't love it, but it's a lot of fun!

I saw it with a couple in their upper 50's and they liked it too! Go figure!

Xanadu Street

What a great idea and theatre business and Wall Street coming together? I saw this show Friday night and it was so much fun.

My suggestion, if you're in New York and you want to see a musical. See Xanadu.

Another Creative Costume

You can't buy this costume in any store...so funny

Red Sox Fan

261 Boston Red Sox 2007 World Series Celebration
Originally uploaded by Violentz

This is how out of touch I am. I didn't know the Red Sox won. Good for them. A buddy of mine caught this photo! Adorable.

Bush slip up!

Not surprising at all. How does this kind of person become president?

Capricorn for the Week

Sounds like I'll be posting more stories if I follow the stars' instructions.

Capricorn Horoscope for week of November 1, 2007

The number of TV channels we have to choose from is growing steadily. Where I live, for example, there were a mere 61 options in 2000. Now I can choose from 104. And yet surveys show that most of us watch no more than 15 percent of what's available. If you'd like to be in alignment with cosmic rhythms in the coming week, Capricorn, you will make a concerted effort to sample a much larger selection than you usually do -- of TV channels and everything else. I suggest you expose yourself to an exuberant variety of foods, personalities, landscapes, styles, and cultures. Take in sights and sounds you don't normally even think of tuning in to.

Xanadu

After so much back and forth that I almost got sick from I'm finally seeing Xanadu tonight. It stars one of my favorite peeps Cheyenne Jackson on roller skates. It supposed to good. It better be for $84.00. I never pay money like that to see a show! Normally I go for free!

Cyrano deBergerac

Last night I saw Cyrano De Bergerac at the Richard Rodgers Theatre. I enjoyed part of it, but I wanted to like more. I blame the director deciding not to trim the fat off of this production, which runs about three hours.

The first scene is hard to drop into. I found myself and others shifting in their seats. Granted, I was tired from Halloween night, but goodness. Mr. David Leveaux must have assumed that the entire audience has read the play before. People may know the story, but that doesn't mean that we've all read the play and are prepared for the wordy, wordy, wordy (did I say wordy play). Yes, it's about languages' eloquence and ferocity. Language is power, sometimes more than the sword.

Kevin Kline plays the title character and he's basically himself. I think he needs a break. I've seen him in some high profile roles and they're all the same. The cook in Mother Courage, King Lear and now Cyrano. He just does the same "act". When he starts to talking I almost fell asleep because you knew where he was going and his voice was just so one note. Kevin Kline shines when he's in a scene with someone going back and forth with listening and sending to his partner. When he's speaking text in the soliloquy's it's had to get through.

Jennifer Garner, although one note, was a breath of fresh air. Due to her interpretation I could see how Cyrano and Christian fell in love with her. I appreciated her vocal training although distracting at times when she hit her lower register. That training will server her because I doubt she will lose her voice during this short run. I'm a big fan Alias fan, so I was rooting for her.

Daniel Sunjata, what can I say. He's delicious. One of the best looking men I've seen on Broadway (I feel another post coming). It takes a very talented actor to make an idiot more than a one dimensional character. I could watch him for hours...lol

It was opening night, so star sightings were Kathy Lee Gifford, Maxwell, Joanne Gleason, Ben Affleck and lots of money men who I recognized, but couldn't put a name to.

A hard play to do and with all the plays out there; why this one at this time?

Sardines on the Subway

Another eventful ride on the NYC transit system this morning.

It didn't start getting exciting until I got to midtown and had to transfer trains. Transferring trains in the morning means that you have to prepare yourself to squeeze and be pushed inside a subway car. It's annoying, I'm prepared for it, but this morning I took notice and the amount of people packed into my section of the train. Why do people feel compelled to pour themselves on the train. Filling the car so that their faces are pressed against the glass on the train doors. They don't even have something to hold onto when the train pulls off.

Note to riders: I'm sure there will be another train in the station in less than five minutes. Take a breath, the next train may not be as crowded as the one you're trying to force into.

34th Annual Halloween Day Parade

Well, I did it. It was exciting, draining and well worth it. I took over 146 pictures (I love rechargeable batteries) that I plan to upload at some point (hehehe). Walking in the parade I got to see lots of great costumes, but not everything because I was so far back in line.

It all started around 5:30pm when I got ready in the private washroom at work. It took me about thirty minutes to put the make up and blood on. B and I met at Crate and Barrel and headed to the starting point for the parade walkers. Anyone can walk in the parade as long as you have a costume on. Although we found that wasn't enforced as strictly as we thought. From about 7:45pm to about 8:50pm we waited with a costumed mob of people trying to get into the parade. When we were released from "holding" and let loose to walk we got a chance to see the creativity and spirit of New York.

All kinds of people come out to the Halloween Parade, old, young, differently abled, gay, straight, trans...you name it...after all this is New York City. I saw a lot of the cliche costumes i.e. cat, pimps, V Venetta guys, vampires (like me), but it's not about that. I love seeing New Yorkers come out to see and be seen.

The entire evening was like a big party. There were a few fights, but they were at bars not in the street. Although I found out when I got home that there was a shooting near Union Square.

Our walk in the parade ended about 10:45pm and a few friends went to Splash to have a good ole time. Splash was fun. More picture taking, catching up and meeting new people.

I walked in the apartment about 4am and washed off all that makeup and went to bed. It was so hard getting up this morning, but I did it! Overall, a great time was had this Halloween. We'll see if I do it again next year.

Peace