I detest driving in DC during rush hour. This morning was the epitome of stupid drivers and pedestrians... times 10!
I could hear the beeping several times from a driver who was urging drivers to pull out into intersections the exact moment the lights turned green. Before not too long, she was zipping around us, almost hitting us not once, not twice, but THREE times as she switched lanes like a meth head driving way too fast. On the final pass, after her last near miss of our car, I had to say something. As I passed, I yelled and asked if she always drove like a douche or if today was a special occasion? She squawked something back that I could not understand and don't really care to know.
As my heart rate came back to normal, and we were almost at our parking spot on the Hill, a pedestrian decided she was entitled to cross the street with a do not walk sign and the green light that I had, along with all the drivers behind me. She stepped almost right in front of us, and with some quick maneuvering, missed her. Heart rate back up even higher this time.
Finally we reached the spot for the car, and walked to Metro. Now we could sit an relax and allow another to do the driving... Unfortunately, Metro was single tracking on the Red line as the tracks were on fire at Medical Center station.
After well over an hour - what usually would constitute a 30 minute commute - I arrived at the office. Shaken, and stirred. I need a bloody Mary and I think it's gonna be a three martini lunch!
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
A Pleasant Ride
Over vacation, I had the pleasure of driving our rental car... normally, I hate rental cars. They are beaten by renters, they are usually entry level vehicles and feel cheap. I was pleasantly surprised by our new Chevy Malibu LTZ...
I will be the first to admit, I am a car snob. I have had my share of American cars, and I have not been satisfied with the quality and driving experience of any of them. I've been a loyal Honda owner for quite some time now. When I picked up our new Malibu with only 170 miles on the odometer, I was excited to try a car that hadn't been abused by other renters, as well as this "new" generation of American automobile that has received positive press and praise.
First of all, the car us larger than I am accustomed to driving. It's a big car. There were times it did not feel large, and there were times it felt its size and then some (especially on twisty turns). It was completely comfortable with lots of features (nicely appointed leather interior, Bose speakers, nice wheels, V-6, 6 speed automatic gearbox with manual mode, and so on.
In terms of long term quality, I am still a little hesitant, but the car was solid and handled well - with the exception of some tight corners where it felt big and heavy. A nice pleasant ride!
I will be the first to admit, I am a car snob. I have had my share of American cars, and I have not been satisfied with the quality and driving experience of any of them. I've been a loyal Honda owner for quite some time now. When I picked up our new Malibu with only 170 miles on the odometer, I was excited to try a car that hadn't been abused by other renters, as well as this "new" generation of American automobile that has received positive press and praise.
First of all, the car us larger than I am accustomed to driving. It's a big car. There were times it did not feel large, and there were times it felt its size and then some (especially on twisty turns). It was completely comfortable with lots of features (nicely appointed leather interior, Bose speakers, nice wheels, V-6, 6 speed automatic gearbox with manual mode, and so on.
In terms of long term quality, I am still a little hesitant, but the car was solid and handled well - with the exception of some tight corners where it felt big and heavy. A nice pleasant ride!
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
Quilt Panels
Music is such an important, integral part of my life. It always has been, ever since I can remember.
One moment that I cherish in my musical experience was the performance of Quilt Panels, by Robert Maggio. The depth of the emotion, the absolute gut-wrenching and heart-felt music that we created was something I have not experienced since the performance. I hope to perform the piece again with an ensemble.
I have been thinking about the music a lot lately. I've had it stuck in my head. I've been thinking about the inspiration for the music. All good things, all good memories.
One moment that I cherish in my musical experience was the performance of Quilt Panels, by Robert Maggio. The depth of the emotion, the absolute gut-wrenching and heart-felt music that we created was something I have not experienced since the performance. I hope to perform the piece again with an ensemble.
I have been thinking about the music a lot lately. I've had it stuck in my head. I've been thinking about the inspiration for the music. All good things, all good memories.
Pride Video
My friend Rob is in the band, and we play trombone together. His partner William is an Emmy Award Winning videographer... REALLY!
William made this video of the band from the 2011 DC Pride Parade. It is incredible!
William made this video of the band from the 2011 DC Pride Parade. It is incredible!
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Malachite
Malachite is believed to be a strong protector of children. It is said to protect the wearer from accidents and protects travelers. Malachite has been used to aid success in business and protect against undesirable business associations. It is a stone of balance in relationships.
Malachite is a stone that should not be used for physical healing. Malachite has been called the "mirror of the soul". It is variable in its condition. It reaches the inner feelings of the person and reflects what is there, negative or positive. It is so beautiful that one would like to wear it in jewelry, but caution must be used when wearing Malachite. It will always reflect how you feel, if you feel negative don't wear Malachite. It reminds us that we have a dual nature and it is up to each person to know and rule his own person. To help get rid of nightmares, keep a piece of Malachite in your bedroom.
The weekend of sweet memories brought both new memories and paid tribute to old ones.
David and I drove to Rehoboth Friday afternoon. He picked me up at my office, and we retrieved Heidi and my luggage. We arrived at Chad and Matthew's home (they allowed us to stay there) in time to unpack, get a quick bite to eat, shower, change and head to Berlin, MD for the service.
The Shabbot - I think that's right - was wonderful. Most of it was in Hebrew, so I did not understand much, but the sentiment and the music were beautiful. The Rabbi at the temple is amazing. She is so warm and so kind. It's easy to see why her congregation adores her. Near the end of the service, a few of us were able to say a few words about Sharon. As we began to share our stories, I could hear thunder in the background. It made me feel - and several others who said the same thing - that is was not a mere coincidence...
After the service, David and I had a chance to talk with Veronica and Grayce, as well as other family and friends who attended the service. It was a fitting tribute, and it was wonderful to hear the fond memories that so many people have of Sharon. David and I returned to Rehoboth, both swearing we were going to change into casual clothes and go for drinks... we both crashed almost as soon as we returned to the house.
Saturday morning, we took our time getting ready to go out and enjoy the day. After lounging a bit, we made our way into downtown Rehoboth to check out the shops and possibly buys something nice. We did both, and had a nice lunch as well. AND, we got some sun. It was a lovely day. By evening, we dressed and made our way to Berlin again for another service - this time for friend Grayce's husband who had passed over the winter. We arrived much later than planned, and by the time we arrived, realized Terry would be in Rehoboth before long. We would only have a few minutes with friends, so decided it would be best to return and send our apologies to our friends. We made it back just in time to meet Terry, feed Heidi and give her insulin. We headed out for dinner and drinks. Terry had a bit too much to drink, so after a walk to the beach, our evening ended at the house around 11. We went to bed soon after, which was fine because we all were pretty tired.
Sunday morning, Terry and I headed off for breakfast, and David stayed in with the dogs. After breakfast, we took a walk to digest a bit. We returned to check in with David for a walk around town and lunch. David had done some exploring around town on his own at a couple of his favorite shops. Till we met up, we went for lunch, did some more walking and eventually headed to the house. We began cleaning up the house, packed up the car and said farewell to Rehoboth. We pulled out of town around 8, after dropping recyclables and grabbing some food for the car. By 10:20, we were home.
It was a terrific weekend for remembering our friend and making new memories. One that I will always cherish.
David and I drove to Rehoboth Friday afternoon. He picked me up at my office, and we retrieved Heidi and my luggage. We arrived at Chad and Matthew's home (they allowed us to stay there) in time to unpack, get a quick bite to eat, shower, change and head to Berlin, MD for the service.
The Shabbot - I think that's right - was wonderful. Most of it was in Hebrew, so I did not understand much, but the sentiment and the music were beautiful. The Rabbi at the temple is amazing. She is so warm and so kind. It's easy to see why her congregation adores her. Near the end of the service, a few of us were able to say a few words about Sharon. As we began to share our stories, I could hear thunder in the background. It made me feel - and several others who said the same thing - that is was not a mere coincidence...
After the service, David and I had a chance to talk with Veronica and Grayce, as well as other family and friends who attended the service. It was a fitting tribute, and it was wonderful to hear the fond memories that so many people have of Sharon. David and I returned to Rehoboth, both swearing we were going to change into casual clothes and go for drinks... we both crashed almost as soon as we returned to the house.
Saturday morning, we took our time getting ready to go out and enjoy the day. After lounging a bit, we made our way into downtown Rehoboth to check out the shops and possibly buys something nice. We did both, and had a nice lunch as well. AND, we got some sun. It was a lovely day. By evening, we dressed and made our way to Berlin again for another service - this time for friend Grayce's husband who had passed over the winter. We arrived much later than planned, and by the time we arrived, realized Terry would be in Rehoboth before long. We would only have a few minutes with friends, so decided it would be best to return and send our apologies to our friends. We made it back just in time to meet Terry, feed Heidi and give her insulin. We headed out for dinner and drinks. Terry had a bit too much to drink, so after a walk to the beach, our evening ended at the house around 11. We went to bed soon after, which was fine because we all were pretty tired.
Sunday morning, Terry and I headed off for breakfast, and David stayed in with the dogs. After breakfast, we took a walk to digest a bit. We returned to check in with David for a walk around town and lunch. David had done some exploring around town on his own at a couple of his favorite shops. Till we met up, we went for lunch, did some more walking and eventually headed to the house. We began cleaning up the house, packed up the car and said farewell to Rehoboth. We pulled out of town around 8, after dropping recyclables and grabbing some food for the car. By 10:20, we were home.
It was a terrific weekend for remembering our friend and making new memories. One that I will always cherish.
Friday, June 17, 2011
Off to the Races!
I have a busy morning with a meeting and two conference calls. Then, I am out of the office at 1 when David is picking me up. We are headed to Ocean City, MD for the weekend.
Tonight, we are attending a memorial service for Sharon. Her friends and family will be together, and I know she will be all around us. That helps.
Tomorrow, we will tool around the beach, and tomorrow evening, we are attending a memorial service for our friend Grayce's husband. Afterward, we will have some much needed drinks in Rehoboth and we will meet Terry is traveling to meet David and me.
Sunday, the day is ours. I hope to get just a wee bit of beach time and some sun. We will head back sometime Sunday afternoon or early evening.
It's going to be a whirlwind weekend, it's going to be emotional and most certainly a time to celebrate the life of someone we miss very much.
Tonight, we are attending a memorial service for Sharon. Her friends and family will be together, and I know she will be all around us. That helps.
Tomorrow, we will tool around the beach, and tomorrow evening, we are attending a memorial service for our friend Grayce's husband. Afterward, we will have some much needed drinks in Rehoboth and we will meet Terry is traveling to meet David and me.
Sunday, the day is ours. I hope to get just a wee bit of beach time and some sun. We will head back sometime Sunday afternoon or early evening.
It's going to be a whirlwind weekend, it's going to be emotional and most certainly a time to celebrate the life of someone we miss very much.
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Weekend Update
This past weekend was full of experiences, and I feel like this will never capture the essence, but I want to get it down before I the moment slips too far away.
Friday night began with a bit of a whirlwind. Chad and I were off to see The Go Go's at Wolf Trap. We coordinated schedules to meet a little early after work and beat rush hour traffic, packed picnic food and wine, changed into concert attire and beat a path to Wolf Trap. We had a nice little picnic, some good wine and enjoyed a fun concert. The gals in the band sounded much the same as they did in the 80's. The movement of the balcony when the crowd danced for more popular songs was a little unnerving... other than that, it was fantastic, and we headed back to DC singing songs from the Glee soundtrack. I still haven't seen the show, but the music is popular and easily recognizable. Following a post-concert cocktail at Number 9, I was dropped off at home and in bed by 1am.
Saturday morning, I was up and at'em early to take care of the dogs, water plants and get to DCDD Marching band rehearsal for the 2011 DC Pride Parade. I am not playing in the band this summer, so I wanted to volunteer and help out any way possible. I was happy to be assigned the role of banner carrier along with another band spouse who is always very spirited and happy up front with the band. This was my first time hearing the marching band this summer. I was blown away by the sound and quality of the product they had prepared. Plus, the numbers of participating members is impressive - there are over 51 members, which is up from previous years. After receiving my uniform and instructions from "El Jefe", I made my way downtown on Metro to meet David.
David and I were off on an adventure of our own to David Yurman in Tyson's Corner. After a lovely brunch at Daily Grill, we walked around the Tyson's Gallery until we worked up the courage to enter the Yurman store. Note - this has become our routine, and I think it's a good one. At Yurman, we were greeted warmly by our new "friend" Jose who was happy to see us. We've visited numerous times, and this time, we were ready. We tried a few things, and after careful consideration and a few glasses of bubbly, we made our selections. The champagne certainly helped take the edge off. There was also plenty of good people watching, including a YOUNG lady who was there with her sugar daddy. Another customer came in to the delight of Jose and his fellow co-workers. He had quite a few pieces of Yurman, and he was looking for more. I feel like we became part of a distinguished club! After admiring a few more lovely items, including a Ferrari, a Maserati and a Lamborghini - all for sale inside the mall - we made our way back to DC.
The ride into town was fun, and we listed to a Judy Garland concert from the early 60's all the way to my house. The conversation was great and the music was incredible. At the house, I had to quickly prepare for the parade, and make my way to the parade route for line up. I did a quick wardrobe change, and I was out the door!
Beth and I met up near where we both parked, and in our tradition, we walked to meet the band for the parade. We arrived to meet the band, get our gear together and move to meet the NY Big Apple Corps where we had a group performance before the parade kicked off. It was fantastic to see and hear our groups performing together and having a great time!
Before we knew it, we were marching down 23rd and on P Street. The parade was off and running, and it was so much fun! The crowds felt smaller than last year, but they were just as enthusiastic and responsive to the band. They band sounded GREAT! A big, full sound filled the street, and the crowd loved it. As we wrapped up our performance, we made our way to Nellie's for drinks with our friends from the NY band. Terry and David joined me there, along with friends who are part of the Penn State LGBT Alumni Association. After drinks, we had a divine dinner at Bistro Cacao. Terry brought some lovely wine, and we enjoyed our meal immensely.
Sunday morning came quickly. After a long and eventful Saturday, we were up early again to join family and friends of our dear friend Sharon for the unveiling of her memorial plaque. We carried with us hydrangea and a red rose, as well as our love. I'd been trying to prepare for this emotionally for some time. No matter how much, I was not ready for the rush of emotions I felt when we pulled into the cemetery. I was overwhelmed, and it took all of my energy to stay together. Still tears were flowing freely, and I was suddenly taken back to the day - almost a year ago to the day - when we said our farewells to Sharon. The service was lovely. The Rabbi spoke so kindly of Sharon, her family, of David and her friends. I had a chance to read the letter I wrote to Sharon and posted here. It was very cathartic, emotional and heart-wrenching.
We had a nice lunch with all who came to the service and spent time catching up with each other, sharing memories and remembering the time we had with Sharon. Many of us hadn't seen each other since her memorial service a year ago, so it was nice to be together.
Terry and David and I made our way home via the Pentagon City Mall where we had an interesting encounter with David's sister - who he hadn't seen in probably 8 to 10 years. She's not exactly stable Mable, so let's just leave it at this... it wasn't one of those happy reunions they show on Oprah. We made it home and had a couple MUCH needed cocktails while looking at photo albums from Sharon for David. That was nice.
Sunday evening, we went to a BBQ at the home of friends Bill and David on the Hill. It was a great way to wrap up the evening - with friends and new friends - laughing, eating, drinking and enjoying each others' company.
The weekend flew by. It was fun, it was incredible, it was emotional, it was a celebration, it was a time for reflection.
Friday night began with a bit of a whirlwind. Chad and I were off to see The Go Go's at Wolf Trap. We coordinated schedules to meet a little early after work and beat rush hour traffic, packed picnic food and wine, changed into concert attire and beat a path to Wolf Trap. We had a nice little picnic, some good wine and enjoyed a fun concert. The gals in the band sounded much the same as they did in the 80's. The movement of the balcony when the crowd danced for more popular songs was a little unnerving... other than that, it was fantastic, and we headed back to DC singing songs from the Glee soundtrack. I still haven't seen the show, but the music is popular and easily recognizable. Following a post-concert cocktail at Number 9, I was dropped off at home and in bed by 1am.
Saturday morning, I was up and at'em early to take care of the dogs, water plants and get to DCDD Marching band rehearsal for the 2011 DC Pride Parade. I am not playing in the band this summer, so I wanted to volunteer and help out any way possible. I was happy to be assigned the role of banner carrier along with another band spouse who is always very spirited and happy up front with the band. This was my first time hearing the marching band this summer. I was blown away by the sound and quality of the product they had prepared. Plus, the numbers of participating members is impressive - there are over 51 members, which is up from previous years. After receiving my uniform and instructions from "El Jefe", I made my way downtown on Metro to meet David.
David and I were off on an adventure of our own to David Yurman in Tyson's Corner. After a lovely brunch at Daily Grill, we walked around the Tyson's Gallery until we worked up the courage to enter the Yurman store. Note - this has become our routine, and I think it's a good one. At Yurman, we were greeted warmly by our new "friend" Jose who was happy to see us. We've visited numerous times, and this time, we were ready. We tried a few things, and after careful consideration and a few glasses of bubbly, we made our selections. The champagne certainly helped take the edge off. There was also plenty of good people watching, including a YOUNG lady who was there with her sugar daddy. Another customer came in to the delight of Jose and his fellow co-workers. He had quite a few pieces of Yurman, and he was looking for more. I feel like we became part of a distinguished club! After admiring a few more lovely items, including a Ferrari, a Maserati and a Lamborghini - all for sale inside the mall - we made our way back to DC.
The ride into town was fun, and we listed to a Judy Garland concert from the early 60's all the way to my house. The conversation was great and the music was incredible. At the house, I had to quickly prepare for the parade, and make my way to the parade route for line up. I did a quick wardrobe change, and I was out the door!
Beth and I met up near where we both parked, and in our tradition, we walked to meet the band for the parade. We arrived to meet the band, get our gear together and move to meet the NY Big Apple Corps where we had a group performance before the parade kicked off. It was fantastic to see and hear our groups performing together and having a great time!
Before we knew it, we were marching down 23rd and on P Street. The parade was off and running, and it was so much fun! The crowds felt smaller than last year, but they were just as enthusiastic and responsive to the band. They band sounded GREAT! A big, full sound filled the street, and the crowd loved it. As we wrapped up our performance, we made our way to Nellie's for drinks with our friends from the NY band. Terry and David joined me there, along with friends who are part of the Penn State LGBT Alumni Association. After drinks, we had a divine dinner at Bistro Cacao. Terry brought some lovely wine, and we enjoyed our meal immensely.
Sunday morning came quickly. After a long and eventful Saturday, we were up early again to join family and friends of our dear friend Sharon for the unveiling of her memorial plaque. We carried with us hydrangea and a red rose, as well as our love. I'd been trying to prepare for this emotionally for some time. No matter how much, I was not ready for the rush of emotions I felt when we pulled into the cemetery. I was overwhelmed, and it took all of my energy to stay together. Still tears were flowing freely, and I was suddenly taken back to the day - almost a year ago to the day - when we said our farewells to Sharon. The service was lovely. The Rabbi spoke so kindly of Sharon, her family, of David and her friends. I had a chance to read the letter I wrote to Sharon and posted here. It was very cathartic, emotional and heart-wrenching.
We had a nice lunch with all who came to the service and spent time catching up with each other, sharing memories and remembering the time we had with Sharon. Many of us hadn't seen each other since her memorial service a year ago, so it was nice to be together.
Terry and David and I made our way home via the Pentagon City Mall where we had an interesting encounter with David's sister - who he hadn't seen in probably 8 to 10 years. She's not exactly stable Mable, so let's just leave it at this... it wasn't one of those happy reunions they show on Oprah. We made it home and had a couple MUCH needed cocktails while looking at photo albums from Sharon for David. That was nice.
Sunday evening, we went to a BBQ at the home of friends Bill and David on the Hill. It was a great way to wrap up the evening - with friends and new friends - laughing, eating, drinking and enjoying each others' company.
The weekend flew by. It was fun, it was incredible, it was emotional, it was a celebration, it was a time for reflection.
Friday, June 10, 2011
Letter to a Friend
It's been over a year since I last saw you and we spent time together. It was an amazing day, and you were gorgeous as ever. I will always remember that day. It's just the way I want to remember you... smiling, happy, full of life and spirit. As amazing inside as you are gorgeous on the outside.
I think of you everyday. You always bring a smile to my face, but I have to admit, I miss you as fiercely as you loved everyone around you. And lately, the memories of you are stronger and stronger. I feel your presence in my life in the things I say, the things I do, the way I treat people. I wonder if you ever knew how amazing you are? I wonder if you knew how much better you made our lives? You made a profound impact on my life, and we had such brief moments together. I can only imagine those closest to you, how they must feel, what they miss.
There's one in particular that stands out in my mind, and you know who I mean. He's very special, and I know he meant the world to you too. We've spent a lot of time together in the past year, and we celebrate you every time we are together. I made a promise to you, and I assure you, I do my best to live up to that promise everyday! I hope you know we are okay, but I hope you know we'd be better if you were here. I know that's selfish, but there are times I would do anything to have you with us, laughing, smiling and enjoying the moments with us. I know that's not possible, so I focus on the love you gave and the special moments we shared. Talking about you and telling stories about you... that keeps you alive in all of us who loved you.
This weekend, we will come together and honor you, remember you, celebrate you. I know it will be bitter sweet. But I know that we will be together and that helps.
Wherever you are... I love you. I miss you.
Bya,
Matt
I think of you everyday. You always bring a smile to my face, but I have to admit, I miss you as fiercely as you loved everyone around you. And lately, the memories of you are stronger and stronger. I feel your presence in my life in the things I say, the things I do, the way I treat people. I wonder if you ever knew how amazing you are? I wonder if you knew how much better you made our lives? You made a profound impact on my life, and we had such brief moments together. I can only imagine those closest to you, how they must feel, what they miss.
There's one in particular that stands out in my mind, and you know who I mean. He's very special, and I know he meant the world to you too. We've spent a lot of time together in the past year, and we celebrate you every time we are together. I made a promise to you, and I assure you, I do my best to live up to that promise everyday! I hope you know we are okay, but I hope you know we'd be better if you were here. I know that's selfish, but there are times I would do anything to have you with us, laughing, smiling and enjoying the moments with us. I know that's not possible, so I focus on the love you gave and the special moments we shared. Talking about you and telling stories about you... that keeps you alive in all of us who loved you.
This weekend, we will come together and honor you, remember you, celebrate you. I know it will be bitter sweet. But I know that we will be together and that helps.
Wherever you are... I love you. I miss you.
Bya,
Matt
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