Here it is. I tried posting it last time and guess it didn't work out. And we have matching ones.
In other news, hung out with The Guy and his partner the other day. He talked about how we need to at least have something to commemorate our domestic partnership as it is a way to affirm it in front of friends. I'm going to bring it up to my guy as I think it would be fun, but he's very low key. Maybe a neutral point? We were trying to think of our friends...
The Guy and Rob
Jack Off Buddy and his guy
J & B
Mike's coworker
Gonzo
Darla
Mike's cousin and aunt?
My cousin(s)/aunt/uncle - 1 to 6 of them
Parents?
My sissy from work
We had a nice dinner The Guy and I ran to Trader Joes to make. Chatted about everything and anything with him and his man.
Also hung out with my cousin that I'm closest with and another more distant cousin, Marquel, whom I've never mentioned before. He's like 3 years younger and we never really chatted until the past couple of years. He was so interesting. He said he knew I was gay all along, we chatted about that, he asked what it was like, what it was like not being attracted to girls, whether I found girls hot at all, and he's just one of those really interested people who tries to hear everyone's opinions and thoughts. Sex came up. He recently had his first time with his girlfriend. He thinks I'm one of those been there, done that types. Talked about family, friends, and school. Lots more too.
You really don't expect me to sit at home alone all day during Thanksgiving Break, do you?
Nah, I didn't think so, so here's what I've been up to.
Was supposed to go to Oklahoma, but that didn't happen due to the cost of flights, then the wedding didn't happen, and well, that's about all I know. OKC is definitely in my winter break travel plans.
Monday -
After I said goodbye to my BF who was off to NY for the holidays I headed out to grab lunch and do a little shopping. I was in a funk. I was ok after a while. I went to physical therapy. Went to the gym in the evening.
Tuesday -
Went to my parent's where I did some stuff around the house, washed my car and waxed it. Decided I NEEDED to go somewhere. Got in the car and just drove. Was going to head to San Diego, but decided it was a bit far. Was thinking of WEHO, but wasn't feeling that, so I headed to Oil Can Harry's for gay country dancing. OMG. SUCH FUN. The atmosphere there was warm and friendly. I have to admit the dances they did I had never seen. Lots of couple dances. MUST GO AGAIN.
Wednesday -
Washed and waxed my mom's car. Went to lunch with Jack Off Buddy at a Mexican place. Visited the doc for new anxiety meds. I'm on Zoloft now. Feeling tired this evening and was thinking of heading out, but didn't. Celebrated our family Thanksgiving and listened to my sister's stupidity. Decided instead to watch "Prayers for Bobby."
Thursday-
Will be out tomorrow night after turkey day.
Friday-
Going hiking with a former teacher in the morning, then shopping, and then picking up my BF.
1. Tagalong made me feel better by calling me at 10:30p.m. tonight asking if I could help her with a project, and in the process just calmed my nerves, and reassured me she is fighting for me to have the same prep as I did this year.
2. Lunch with Blondie is always fun - and we can mostly manage to not talk about school even!
3. Olive Garden twice in one day is sometimes good.
4. Jack Off Buddy's expertise has been interesting, especially with his insights about the dreams I've been having about work.
7. I start physical therapy soon for my leg - it turns out there is something wrong - Kaiser misdiagnosed when I initially saw the doctor. The doctor only did an x-ray, but should have done an MRI as that si the only way a torn meniscus can be detected. My BF's friend encouraged me to ask about that, and sure enough. I start physical therapy for it soon.
8. The chiropractor is fun. He's cool to talk to, love a nice massage before being twisted and cracked in several different directions. My neck always feels so good after. The gal who I had last week who did my massage is on the verge of amazing. She found so many knots I didn't even know I had.
HAPPY THANKSGIVING, EVERYONE!!! Hope you are out spending the day with family, friends, and loved ones.
Here's a list of things I am thankful for this year: - My dream job - My fun new colleagues - A mostly gay friendly environment at work - My sexy boyfriend who is cute, easygoing, and we don't always agree, yet are respectful/never have major arguments - A caring boyfriend, at that, one who listens to me complain about work and likes to give a different perspective to everything... lol - A loving family - Getting to introduce my boyfriend to the family - My mom helping me to be prepared for this school year - All of the travel I have been able to do this year like Mississippi for my friend's wedding, my first visit to Mexico, my 2nd visit to see the Mayan pyramids, the Grand Canyon, Yosemite, Sequoia, San Diego, and more... - Getting to see my cousin from Oklahoma more this year than in the past 5-10 years - Good health - Mostly good students - Getting 2nd row concert tickets to Adele
- Great friends like The Guy, Gonzo, my bestie in MS, Jack Off Buddy, Darla, and several others
After meeting my parents Thursday I figured why stop there?
FRIDAY AT 4:30pm - Run to Mike's after going to district office to take care of benefits etc. - He asks where I want to go and throw a few places out, as well as my school - We head to my school for him to see my classroom. I give him a tour and we stop by the lesbian's room where her girlfriend is - The 2 teachers I will work with both came in the room looking for me and gave me supplies - A new 8th grade teacher had my class rosters that I had been unable to access and gave me them - I leave Mike alone for a few minutes to put the new stuff in my room - I introduced Mike to some people, but not everyone; he made fun of me for being bad at introductions. I didn't tell the lesbian, but told everyone else who he was. Oops. - In car I put names to the faces for him further. - Go to Staples since highlighters were free after rebate - Go to Tokyo Wako for sushi and a glass of wine. Sushi was awful and glass of wine was not great. - Stop at Office Depot for a few more upplies for my room - Go to Sears Grand where we try on shirts. They had some slim fit ones that I ended up buying for $9- as if I had the money to spend. ALso looked at weedwackers - Go to WalMart for a wall clock for my room - Back at Mike's about 9:30 - Bed about 10
SATURDAY - Slept until 8 - Shower - He gets a haircut and I submit my rebate for highlighters - Go to Panera for breakfast - Off to LA for Travel Town Museum in Griffith Park - Lots of fun facebook photos transpired - Go to a Yucatan Mexican food place that was DELICIOUS... we loved the ceviche, ensalada de papa (potato salad), y los tacos de pork y fish. - Drive back to our area for a movie, but the movie theater looked packed, so we decided on the drive in movie theater near my house - Stopped at Albertsons for German chocolate and Snickers cupcakes that were so-so - Saw The Smurfs - Got out about 10:45 - Back to his place for bed, but we were both too busy feeling each other up and jacked each other off
SUNDAY - Up at 7- and only because Mike screamed we were late as the original plan was 5:30 - We were off to meet Jack Off Buddy and his boyfriend- they both invited us to Knotts for the American Coaster Convention- those rollercoaster enthusiast people - Get access to the best rides with no lines... I rode Supreme Scream, which I only do when forced, but it was cool - Mike got along well with JO's boyfriend and JO's sister - There was another couple along, one who recognized Mike, and it dawned on Mike hours later that it was a guy he really briefly dated's roommate, but the guy was of no interest to Mike, so we talked about that - Ate breakfast in the chicken house - Lots of fun, cool to hear about behind the scenes stuff at the park - Left about 4:30 - Head to IKEA to make a return - Head home about 7 to mucho drama... shoulda stayed at Mike's - Off to my first day of school manana
- Principal EXTREMELY friendly - Willing to support me in any way – AND THIS IS HARD TO COME BY IN MOST PLACES - Freedom to teach classes I want (an elective or 2, drama, journalism, etc.) - Dream job – just not dream location - Principal is willing to pay for training for programs I am interested in teaching/working with - My super awesome boyfriend will come with me - A chance to get closer and move deeper into a relationship with him - More equity in the relationship as I could contribute/contributing toward household expenses - Actually leave my comfort zone - Away from family drama - Close enough to home that I could fly home or drive on long weekends/daytrip - Principal is gay friendly - ~25 average class size - small high school – about 30 teachers - relatively new school - It could be temporary and most likely would be thanks to pink slips
TO NOT TAKE THE JOB
- Something is bound to come up here in SoCal - Probably less freedom to teach what I want - May not be moving in as quickly with bf - Moving in is still in our future - Leaving my family would be incredibly tough - Leaving my support system- friends- that I value so much and work so hard to maintain because I can go to these people for ANYTHING (The Guy, Gonzo, Darla, Darla’s cousin, Jack Off Buddy). This just kills me. - Would I have the gay tolerance at any school? No. - Pay is worse up there (~$41k vs. $45k in my area) and it would take about 4 years to get up to $45k - Lousy health benefits ($900+ a month for 2 medical options) - Housing more - Have to pay rent, so save less $ - Would I get stuck up there? - How easy would it be to find a position and move back? - What if my boyfriend and I don’t work out? Am I stuck with my name on a house or apt that I might not necessarily want? - The fear of starting my life over and finding new support systems - How gay friendly is the area? - It could be temporary and most likely would be thanks to pink slips
MONDAY - 3:30pm I arrive at Mike's after helping mi madre at school and picking up my sister's car - We get in the car almost immediately to go to Fresh & Easy - In parking lot we circle a few times to find a spot- there were plenty open... lol - Get lots of veggies and random pastas... he kept telling me to "get stuff" and I argued I needed inspiration if I were to make something - I enjoy a 56g of sugar strawberry lemonade from a bottle as we leave... sugar high! - In the car we break open the baked salted chips since I was starved - We eat stuffed mushrooms we bought from the clearance and a $1.64 margharita pizza, which was quite good - Watch "The Glee Project" since it recorded where we thought Rocco's Dinner Party was... he started to Tivo it... grrr - Watch a few more Tivo items - Mike makes a salad with asparagus, lettuce, and fake chicken for our meatless Monday... it didn't exactly taste like chicken - Talk about his need for a kitty - Lots of tickling and cuddling - Watch Gordon Ramsey's Masterchef, Two and a Half Men, and How I Met Your Mother - Bed about 10
TUESDAY - Up at 7:30 - Shower - He works on his expense reports - I make each a slice of toast - Watch TV and play around on iPad - Crunch on a few baked cheese puffs - He teases the cats about needing another cat, a brother, a sister, or even a dog - He asked if my sister called to say she missed me or anything like that and I said no, she's not that nice. He laughed. He asked if she was upset I had her car and I said daddy was more than willing to let her use his, so on the whole, no. He didn't look at the damage that was mostly able to be buffed out from my sister's supposed spin out because it didn't look bad from afar. I told him you have to get up close and if you were to open the doors on the car on the right side they now make a bad sound as you open them. He said I'm just to hard on her. Her car needed shocks in the front I mentioned and how she didn't know, he said I'm just being hard on her because she's a girl. LOL. He thinks I'm abusive toward her... lol... he said it playfully. - We go to lunch at Subway - The workers are making several 3 foot long party subs and it takes forever... we got there in time, though, as the people were still trying to get their food that came in after us as we were leaving - Go to Petsmart and look at the little kittens... no cat carrier in the convertible... he did have the cat carrier out this weekend when he texted me on Sunday about being at Petsmart - We leave Petsmart after he admires, oohs, and aaahs at the cats - He tells me how he needs a chihuahua to take with us... it could travel with him... it could sit in the center console as we drive in the convertible. I told him it was a dumb chihuahua who would bark at everything as we go by. He said he would get a muzzle. I questioned if he, the animal rights activist would really do that. I said it would probably try to jump from the car and break its leg. He talked about how it wouldn't jump up high to eat the cat's food, it would play with the cats, its so much smaller than the cats. I said his antisocial cat wouldn't like it. I said the antisocial cat didn't need a friend. He said he thinks a little kitten would bring out the motherly instincts in it. I pretty much vetoed, but told him how cute he was when he talked about how he wanted one. Back at his place he tries to show me the chihuahua online, but couldn't find it. - So to get or not to get a kitty... or a chihuahua... hmmmmmmmmmmm... we shall see... he has 2 cats already... he likes them since they take care of themselves... should I give in? I just don't want to be with the crazy cat guy... lol... and it could well become that... hahaha... he's cute - Take off at 3:30 - Meet family at 4 for allergy shots - Dad makes steak at home... yummmm - Hit the gym tonight and run into Jack Off Buddy's boyfriend, the counselor from school where I did my student teaching and get to talk to both, which was nice. - Relaxing at home getting recipe inspiration
1. Your ex's car is on the side of the road, on fire. What do you do?
Try to put it out? That's not something I wish on many people.
2. Would you go out to eat with Charlie Sheen?
No- I don't find him funny in the least. Well, is he paying?
3. Who was the last person to comment on your Facebook status?
Jack Off Buddy about my potential eating disorders.
4. What is the last thing you spent money on?
A wedding gift for Gonzo
5. Do you think you gained or lost weight this past month?
Staying pretty constant... thankfully!
6. What's the best film you saw in the last month?
Friday night - Mike and I saw "Super 8"
7. What did you wear today?
Yellow tee that said "what goes up must come down," and beige shorts... yes, I said shorts.
8. Congratulations! You just had a son. What’s his name?
Micah
9. What was the last CD you bought?
Lady Gaga's new one
10. What are you craving right now?
Butterscotch rice krispy treats or some delicious, chewy chocolate chip cookies
11. When you buy something and your change is 2 pence, do you keep it or tell the cashier to keep it?
Tip jar
12. What was the last voicemail you received about?
Keith talking about how he hadn't called me recently
13. Have you ever blocked someone on Facebook?
Nope... why should I? I figure I know everyone on there and don't really feel spited to.
14. Scariest thing you’ve experienced in the last year?
There's been a couple... hmmmmm.... drawing blanks...
15. What kind of car do you want? Do I get more than 1 choice? Lexus RX, Volvo S40, Volvo C-30, Acura TSX
16. What do you order when you go to Burger King?
The chicken tenders were disappointing the last time and really starchy/floury. The ranch sauce was watery and the flavor was not great. I opted for a burger the last time I was there, and charbroiled whatever didn't score much cred in my book. Oh, I like their Hershey Sundae Pie. If I do fast food it is Jack in the Box, In-N-Out, Chick-Fil-A, or McDonalds.
Many of you will remember my beef with Keith over how he has not thanked me for house sitting for him a few months back. I ignored all of his texts, calls, and avoided him in person. I saw Jack Off Buddy, his boyfriend, and Keith all talking at the gym a few weeks back and went in the other direction. I inadvertently pulled my car in across from Keith at the gym a few weeks back, saw him, waved, and went to work out. I get a text from him later that it was too late to work out.
After talking to someone else I decided what it was that bothered me about Keith. He is a user. He has used me, and this was something I didn't blog about out of shame.
Back in December he texted me one afternoon to hang out. I said that would be fine. He said we were going on a work adventure and if I would help him for a few hours he would treat me to dinner. I said that was cool. I help him do what he needs, which was measuring a shopping mall, counting the parking spaces, and size of each unit/building. After, we drove by what looked to be a ritzy, 60s style steakhouse in the OC. He asked if it sounded good and I said it did. We go in, grab drinks, then head to the table where we talk about lots of random stuff like his ex, friends, and the usual. When we were grabbing drinks he assured me I should order whatever I want as he was covering it. I order the $30 cheapest meal house specialty steak. He orders the most expensive wine on the menu at about $75 and I partake. He orders his meal, which is double mine, and dessert. When the bill comes Keith said things like he couldn't afford to me, he always does 50/50 when he goes out with friends and it comes to the bill, he talked about how his bills all came due at once. Poor him. Then why did he say we were going to this expensive place? I was student teaching and had not received a paycheck since August or September- and he knew that very well- I told him several times. I spelled out I was not getting paid. I told him I was relying on money from my parents, which was the absolute truth. I couldn't afford the $230+ ticket not including tip. I paid my portion, which was like $113 excluding tip. He said that then I can afford it because I can ask them to pay for it and tried to put words in my mouth. And were we going to have a showdown at the table? I should have challenged him. Maybe? I just put my credit card on the table in shame, then went home and begged mommy and daddy to pay, which thankfully they did begrudgingly. I was quite the bitch going home. I was full of snark. I think Keith found it hilarious.
I went out with him probably 2 months back after seeing him at the gym. We went to Islands because he was hungry. He was one of those who was so precise that the bill be split just so meaning he was 100% sure I was paying for mine and he was paying for his. Um... most people split down the middle and it isn't an issue... and prior he had. And my chips/guac and drink were far less than his. And sure it would have cost me more, but the annoyance of going through and doing it his way was not worth it.
I ran into Keith a few Saturdays ago at the gym after months of avoiding him. I walk into the locker room and see him there naked, which was way more than I wanted to see. He says "hey you." I was completely out of it. I was tired from not sleeping last Friday night, being up early on Saturday, and it was 95 out. I said "hey" in a fatigued voice and walked to wash my hands since I was ready to leave. He asked how I was and where I have been. I said busy. He said I was tan. I told him I'd been subbing PE recently. He said he could see. He said I was looking sexy. I said thanks. He started in on his pity party. His mom had heart surgery, a bypass, and pneumonia or something over the past few weeks, he can't afford his bills again, he missed his mortgage payment, and how was I? I said I was great. I told him I was on my way to the bank and to meet a friend, so he hurried up to dress and we walked out of the gym together. He told me he missed me and wanted to hang out soon. He reached his arms out for a hug and grudgingly I gave in. I get in my car and leave.
I ran into him at the gym Tuesday night and was not my usual self. I saw him walking out as I was walking him. I saw him, he stopped in the crowded entryway, and he asked if I was coming or going. I said coming. He said he was hoping I was going. I said I was running late and so got to the gym late. He said "okie" and I said goodbye since we were getting bumped in the hall.
At least I realize what kind of friend Keith is and I know I won't let this happen to me again.
Monday - Olive Garden with my mom - Shopped... went to the boring stores like Burlington Coat Factory, but we also went to Costco and that was a-ok - School later in the evening
Tuesday - Tracked down my passport and found out I needed a new passport photo - Took my dad's old laptop to be wiped so my mom could have it for her use - Lunch with my mom at Red Lobster - Sprayed lots of weed killer in the yard - Allergy shots - Got new passport photo at Costco
Wednesday - Tracked down my birth certificate at home - Lunch with my mom at the hamburger place Gonzo and I really like - Weeded the hill outside our house - Cleaned out the garage and a car can now park in there... and for now it is mine until we do some more rearrangement so my mom can take it over - Dinner with Jack Off Buddy, which was nice... fun to catch up with him
Thursday - Lunch is planned with my cousin - MUST APPLY FOR PASSPORT and crossing fingers that the post office phone message was accurate that passports are processed on a walk in basis... otherwise my trip may be a no go and I'll have some pretty pissed off people... it would have been easier had I followed through with the passport last summer - Subbing at the middle school I went to for a short half day assignment (fun money!) Everytime I sub in this district the money I make from it is called my fun money, which I spend on me. It may be a pair of shoes or clothes, but it is fun money... extra money I wasn't planning.
My birthday is coming up next month and I'm thinking about how I want to celebrate. It is nice that it is on a Saturday and I have the day off. Here's some ideas that appeal to me...
Gonzo, myself, and maybe another friend spend the afternoon/evening getting lost in LA/West Hollywood. This would mean we do some shopping or sight seeing, then grab some dinner either from a gourmet food truck (if it were just Gonzo and I), a small Mexican eatery like Al and Bea's, or a nice restaurant for under $15 a person. A novelty restaurant would be fun like The Original Pantry, Swingers Diner, or Roscoes House of Chicken and Waffles. Then we would go to a club or bar like The Abbey. I have to tell Gonzo this one now if I want it to happen. I do.
Since my birthday is on a weekend I plan to milk it for what it is worth. I am thinking maybe a trip with the family and trying something new like the Metro food tour. I just checked the Metrolink schedule to Los Angeles and they no longer travel to my city with the exception of an early and late train each weekend. 6a.m. is so not happening. Boo... hmmm.... I really want to try this, and to not have to deal with parking or any of those other issues would make this worth it. Sightseeing and seeing the city on foot is also appealing. Anyone have any must see places in LA that they love to go to that I need to know about?
As far as restaurants are concerned I know my family wants to take me out and my thoughts are Morton's lunch, my favorite Spanish restaurant, or even a hibachi grill like Benihana, although not Benihana, something local. This would happen if the LA plan is nixed.
All of my ideas seem to revolve around food... lol... well, it is what seems to bring myself and all of my friends together.
Jack Off Buddy messaged me about 12:50 today asking if I wanted to meet up with him to jack off with him on the road tomorrow. Apparently he gets a thrill from jacking off for truckers and people like that. He messaged me about 7a.m. last Saturday asking I would accompany him to jack off and jack each other. I ignored his message. He messaged me again today and told me to meet him at a certain location tomorrow where he'd drive and we'd do that... umm................... he has a boyfriend.............
What did I do? I made the most out of it. Let's run down...
I had the best sausage and cheese biscuit for breakfast. My dad made those, and they pretty much rocked my world for the moment.
Did some tarea, that would be homework for you non-Spanish majors. I read the book. I shouldn't have read the book because I discovered class is for discussing the reading and I can always wing it. I am good at that.
I met my partner, Josh, for dinner. I gave him all of my textbooks for the class he is taking now, and for the past quarter. I told him I wouldn't charge him for the books, though he was insistent to pay me. I said let's just hang out and do dinner or something, and I'm cool, so he fed me. We went to Chevys Mexican. I had the flautas and enchilada platter. I was underwhelmed. The food was pretty good- it has improved- but it wasn't filling. Don't get me wrong- it was really tasty- just not filling. We talk about school, work, and family. I enjoyed it.
Went to school and behaved for a change. I have a professor whom you don't want to cross. I just found out I have her for the next 2 quarters for various classes so I need to behave. I am doing everything to the best of my abilities and actually trying.
Afterwards I got a text from Keith who was a little slow in responding to texting. He had been asking me for the longest time if I went to Palm Springs Pride. I didn't. I make some flirtatious comments unintentionally. I realize it is only 8:15 on a Thursday night and though I really don't want to go out, I don't have school in the morning, so I might as well take advantage of the situation. I text him and ask if he wants to meet for drinks after his bowling league. He does. We go to Yardhouse. I have 2 beers that weren't all that great. I was trying beers I never had before. I tried the Alaskan Ranger and the New Ranger IPB. I should have stuck with the Fat Tire. It is good, but I always drink it, so I was trying different ones. The Ranger was fruity. No bueno. We chat about lots. We chat about Jack Off Buddy's Boyfriend, school, the gay community, guys in the community, Palm Springs Pride, how I need to go out to Palm Springs more, how Palm Springs resorts are so nice, politics in the city, I bring up the topic of Carl since psychos came out- I still didn't feel comfortable bringing up restraining order psycho Mike, and work. Keith amused me. He tries too hard at times to joke and flirt with the waitresses. It was amusing. Afterwards we stand outside talking and it seemed like every guy was looking at us as we're 2 guys just standing close together talking with each other.
And now I'm home with 2 beers in me and feeling loud and on my way to being tipsy. I was putting the sheets I washed on the bed singing Me and Bobby McGee as well as Sorry by Buckcherry (an awesomely bad song) and talked to my parents about how my dad should join me in my masters classes and complete his masters as well. Great day overall. Woo!
Thursday School Thursday night. I also had a seminar that I had forgotten about and had to tell my teacher about. Oops. I had a blast at the seminar. It was as boring as all can be, but Beth kept Josh and I entertained.
Friday Got a text while I was at work from my cousin telling me the entire family was going to Disneyland after school and wanted to know if I wanted to go. I didn't text back right away because I had a million things to do. I was leaving work early so I spent my lunch time eating and planning/writing out the Powerpoints for next week, as well as the lesson plans for the next 2 weeks. I had to go get fingerprinted to be eligible to sub when my master teacher is out. I later found out I had to get a drug test also, so I didn't know when I'd get there. I didn't have other plans, so once I was done at 3:30p.m. I hightailed it down to Disney.
I get to Disney at 3:30 just as my oldest cousin and 12 year old cousin, aunt, and cousin's wife were crossing over from California Adventure into Disneyland. We meet, hug, and then head in. We go to Pirates of the Caribbean, then Indiana Jones, Haunted Mansion, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Snow White, Tea Cups, Matterhorn all in the course of about 2 1/2 hours. The longest line was about 25 minutes. That was so atypical of a Disney trip. After Matterhorn we do dinner at the Plaza Inn where my aunt bought for everyone, and I had a not so great prime rib slice. We head over to California Adventure for Tower of Terror. The line was soooooooooooooooo long for that- we waited 65 minutes, but passed our time talking about Miley Cyrus, The Pussycat Dolls, awards shows my cousin has done makeup for, she showed us the trailer for the new movie she did the makeup for, and talked Miley Cyrus' diva little sister. We also rocked out to 1-2-3 by Britney Spears, which my cousin played on her iPhone.
My cousins were able to snag tickets for the World of Color. All I can say is that we had awesome seats- in the blue section kind of in the back, but a direct middle view to the river where we could see the show. And it was waaaaaaaaaaaay better than Fantasmic anyday. Fantasmic is so 1990s. LOL. Seriously, the lights reflecting on and in the water, the cool water patterns, and the images projected on the water were much cooler than anything in Fantasmic. After this we head to the lockers and then shop in the World of Disney. We take off about 11:00pm and I get home about midnight.
Saturday Ran around with my mom to the mall in our city and the next city over. I found a lot of cool shirts I wanted from Express. I also showed her some shirts on my iPhone from Buckle that I wanted. She said yes. We walked around and did some Christmas shopping. I came home and made a bought the shirts that I wanted. Yay for new clothes! Chatted with Ry on AIM while I was out. Something is still up with him.
I met Linda, her husband, and Mel for a hockey game tonight in a suite. Linda got the hookup from the casino. It was awesome. Lots of shrimp, pizza, pulled pork, chips, cookies, and brownies. I came hungry and left happy. The game was alright. The Ontario Reign would have done better had their goalie actually guarded the goal. He was in the middle of the court once, behind the goal another, and not even in the game another time. Ontario lost 2 to 5. The Alaska Aces won.
I noticed as we were leaving the game about 10:10p.m. I had such a headache. It was one of the pounding headaches that is in the back of my head that I've had soooooooo many times over the past year. This one came on as we walked outside of the arena. I popped 2 Tylenol in the car since I didn't have any headache medicine. I get about halfway home and the headache becomes almost unbearable. I think about calling The Guy and wonder if he would actually pick up. I think about calling Jack Off Buddy, and was almost sure he'd be willing to drive me home/to his house where I could crash and sleep off the headache. I think about calling Keith or Gonzo. My parents and sister were not home as they were at some function my sister had with school, otherwise I would have called them. I asked myself several times if I could make it home safely and not endanger myself or others. I thought I could so I continued driving. I knew it wouldn't have been too big of an issue to call someone, but I felt bad. I was miserable by the time I got home. My head was still pounding in back and on top. I was feeling hot and cold. I had to get out to get the gate and nearly fell over when I got out of the car. I get in the driveway finally and I close the gate as quick as I can. I make my way up to the lounger where I lay and get licked to death by the dogs. I come in after a few minutes and collapse on the couch. Woke up fine and slept my headache off. Yay!
Sunday Today I'm doing some schoolwork, work for my classes tomorrow, and grocery shopping. Going to make pasta or something for lunch.
Jack Off Buddy is interesting. Tonight I get a photo he took on the outside of Target and sign of the fitting room. I think to myself I'm going to be getting sexts any moment. Here's what I got and here's what I said... it felt awkward to even say what I did. It's not to say I wasn't horny and was maybe actually jacking off, and very tempted to take him up on his offer when he started texting me.
I have several friends/acquaintances that are in relationships. There is The Guy and Robert, Jack off Buddy and his boyfriend, the hairstylist I met with Max a while back is one of my acquaintances in a relationship.
I remember several months back the hairstylist found me on grindr. I just had a torso shot posted. We talk, I tell him who I was, then a few days later he starts sexting me nude photos of himself. I am taken back and wonder to myself, you're in a relationship, you're flirting with me, telling me how we should get together, and this is weird. It was at that time I was thinking to myself this was not alright, and I didn't know this acquaintance well enough to know if he was joking around about getting together. He would ask me all the time what I like to do with a guy, what I would do with, and then told me to meet him after his beauty shop closed for fun. I wasn't going to risk anything and just sort of ignored this guy. I had a hard time determining whether he was flirting or was serious.
The Guy and I haven't really had to worry- I am not going to do anything to get in the way of his relationship, and we aren't really flirty toward each other. Just good friends.
Then there is Jack Off Buddy. We met on adam4adam for jack off basically. He is several years older than me, but we both have a good time. I was a little weird about meeting his boyfriend/really hanging out. I remember since we had only known each other and only hung out when we were jacking off together that meeting his boyfriend at his birthday was weird. Then he insisted his boyfriend and I go to Universal Studios. The only reason it seemed weird to me was it is a guy I've done something sexual with, and now he has a boyfriend, and to me it seemed like I wonder if his boyfriend knows, and so it was weird. I know from talking about random stuff with the 2 of them they are very much in love, not wanting to cheat. The 3 of us get along well. We were able to look past the sexual thing and it hasn't come up until now. I know that Jack Off Buddy is very voyeuristic and exhibitionistic, unlike his boyfriend. Anyways, Jack Off Buddy and I text occasionally back and forth. He'll send me a funny photo or something like a picture of a children's book and ask if I was the little boy in the picture since the kid kind of did look like me. Another time he saw a book with my last name in the title, was amused, and sent it to me asking if I was related. So basically we text random pics and stuff back to each other. Now I'm conflicted I guess because he knows another side of me that goes beyond the friendship level- I am sure I'm not the only gay guy to fool around with a gay friend- so this isn't unique to me. But what about when the texts become flirty? I am sure Jack Off Buddy won't cheat, but here's what happened:
Yesterday I got a text from him and he sent me a picture of his boyfriend being felt up by airport security. He told me that another man had his hands all over his guy in the caption. I texted back, "and you're alright with that?" He said yes, as long as he gets to watch and take photos. Then he said he has a voyeuristic/exhibitionistic side and asked if I did. I said I did. He asked what I've done that was either one of those, and I told him some things. Then we started talking about fantasies. He told me he wishes his boyfriend was more exhibitionistic or voyeuristic and had given him a hand job while driving. He told me how he used to jack off for truckers as he would drive. We got to talking about have you ever done anything at the gym? He told me about getting jacked off in front of a bunch of guys at the local Ballys Fitness years ago. He started sexting me photos of his dick. He told me he has always had a dressing room fantasy and how he would like to jack off in one. He told me I should take some photos of me in one and send pics of my dick in the mirror to him. He asked what other fantasies I had and I said outdoor scenes could be hot. He said we should go to the nature preserve near his house soon and jack off. I just left it at "that would be hot." I didn't really know what to say- was he playing around- was he serious- I think it was mostly playing- but I won't get involved in between him and his boyfriend.
Does anyone else have this where they have a friend they've done something sexual with, then they are involved, yet the flirtation with you continues?
I've been chatting back and forth with reader, fan of casey, and wanted to write something along the lines of bullying to partly respond to his questions, but also because this is a topic that I feel strongly about I want to talk about. I started writing this post not knowing where it was going to go, but take a look and see... . I've been bullied. - 77% of students are bullied, and the abuse can come in many different forms- verbal, physical, etc. - Over 160,000 kids miss school each day due to bullying. - 30 million students in the US, and as many at least 2 million are maybe gay. - Gay teens are 2/3 more likely to commit suicide - Gay teens have higher substance abuse, attendance problems, etc.
With the bullying incidents that seem to have come to a head over the past couple days- the Rutgers incident, and Ellen's response to gay bullying.
I was listening to Valentine on MYFM, yesterday morning, who was talking about bullying, asking if you were bullied, and how you handled it. All of the DJs/producers, Nate, Valentine, and Irma were able to name the bullies. They named names. Irma refrained since she is a SoCal girl, and chances are they were listening, but the point was clear that you don't forget the names of those who bully you, and what they say to you.
10-12 or so years later I still haven't forgotten those who bullied me. I was bullied once or twice in 7th grade by Shay, whom I had known since elementary, but the pique times for me were between 4th and 6th grades. I remember my bullies, and they were Tommy F, Brad K, Chris M, Shay, Stephanie Y, Amy L, and Brad H. They all have names, and I have not forgotten what they did, and can still see many of the events etched in my mind. I was bullied over things from my clothes to sexuality to lack of athletic abilities.
Jack Off Buddy made a statement on facebook that has been etched in the back of my mind because it was so powerful. He remembers being called a fag and the pain better than memories about his best Christmas.
Seacrest had a group on talking about bullying simultaneously as Valentine was talking about it. He had on a support group that goes about visiting schools, and they were taking calls from parents. Seacrest talked about how he had been bullied, but now he can laugh in all of their faces because he is not the fat little kid, and he is more successful than them. The group presented the statistics above, as well as more, which I had heard, but they cause me to cringe. If you're interested in the audio search Lauren Parsekian on his site. The group was actually dealing with girls bullying each other, and taking calls from parents whose kids had been bullied, and I was just so sad for the students. Students who are so depressed, who seem like they have all of the life taken out of them, students who feel like they have no friends, and kids who are told they can play with a group only for the group to turn on them... I had tears in my eyes as I drove to work.
The teacher credentialing system in most states is horrible. The education classes are based on theory and little on real world scenarios. The education classes do little to educate teachers how to deal with bullying. I'll tell you the training I've had: a few words of advice, "be proactive." The professors I've had say bullying is bad, you need to stop it because your job is to create the best possible classroom as possible where all students feel comfortable to learn. You can lose your credential if a parent or lawyer sues you because their son or daughter was bullied, and you knowingly could have prevented it. But as far as training? Nothing is really in place anywhere. The classes largely focus on cultural diversity and multiculturalism.
I have dealt with 2 instances of bullying in my classroom just while subbing that I dealt with:
- Marshall is one of the few white boys on the campus I teach at. He is in regular classes, even though he is probably a few grades behind. He is a good hearted boy who will try his hardest, but is often made fun of for various reasons. The first time I met him was last year in 7th grade. He was in a group of boys in Mel's class. The class was a handful to say the least. I had a lot going on. He came up to me as I was walking around and told me that 2 boys were making fun of him. I said I would handle it. I didn't say anything more. That meant I walked over and hung out in the area. I saw one boy take his paper, and then scribble a line through it. I called the kid out and sent him outside. I followed behind after about 30 seconds. That gave the kid a moment to calm down and I conferenced with him. The kid came back in and I put him in a new seat. The kid began taunting Marshall from across the room calling him retard and slow. I told the kid who was making fun of Marshall that it is not tolerated. Marshall might not understand something, but I can assure the kid who was teasing that he was not perfect, and asked how he would like it if I, or another student teased him. Obviously he was offended. I left it at that, then I heard the taunting start right after. I told the kid he had 2 warnings, and obviously my being nice would not work. I got on the phone and let the assistant principal know she would have a visitor, and I sent the kid down. I sent the paper he scribbled on, as well as a note. I did my duty. I subbed in the class several times after and made sure that Marshall and this kid were separated. I know the kid who bullied Marshall was eventually moved into a different class because he was bullying other students.
- I subbed for Linda last year 4-5 times within 2 weeks at the beginning of the year as she was out at several trainings about team teaching, leadership, and English planning. I met William in that class. William was tall, skinny, had black hair that he curled with a curling iron he carried in his backpack, would wear a pair of jeans, and jean skirts. He was all the rage with the girls in the class and sat around them. I liked the kid- he said some of the most outlandish stuff that just made me chuckle. He had a brilliant sense of humor, and you could joke with him in ways you couldn't other 7th graders- he understood sarcasm. We were in the midst of a classroom read aloud when suddenly one kid raised their hand from across the room, and said, "Mr. Teacher, William is gay." I was probably silent a moment or two, then said that it doesn't matter, we are there to learn about Islam, or whatever topic we were covering. I said even if he is it doesn't matter. I said that things like that (sexuality) don't matter. He's a good kid who does all of his work. This kid is merely speculating and saying things that weren't necessarily true. I said that was damaging to the person and could be suspendable. I said that I could make the same remark he had just made to him, and how would he feel about it? He stood up and told me "that's messed up," and I said that was my opinion of it too. I said it was messed up he said that. I stopped there and sent the student who made the comment about William to the assistant principal. The student who made the accusations was at least talked to I'm sure. I know that about a week later he was moved from Linda's class.
There's another sub at work that I usually see once every 2 weeks or so. He is also gay. I know this because I've chatted with him on connexion once, then we've shot each other a few messages on adam4adam. He is about 35 and going after his credential after working in the business world. I know this since I stumbled upon his facebook profile. It turns out Jack Off Buddy's boyfriend is good friends with him, and they went to Disneyland together a few weeks back, and I saw the photos. I'm not stalkerish. I've just came upon this.
Anyways, it is always weird everytime he sees me. One day back in August he came into my class because he was working with another teacher that needed the language arts books that I had in the class I was subbing in. He came in and we were like staring each other down and I just felt weird. I saw him on campus yesterday morning. He was coming out of the office while I was on duty. All of my kids kept coming over and saying hi to me. This sub walked by, and again he stared me down like checking me out. It was weird. I don't know if he has made the connection that we have chatted online before or what.
He's a cute guy and totally my type... but at work...
And he doesn't even try to say hi to me. Most people do. Is he intimidated? LOL... It's beyond me...
Wednesday, 9/13 Date #1 with Ry. I met Ry on Grindr back on Labor Day when I went to Disneyland with Jack Off Buddy and his boyfriend. I logged on, he shot me a message, and I responded the next day when I was on my way to work. Lots of conversation back and forth on there, then we moved over to chatting on AIM, and then skype later that night. We talked on the phone for about 45 minutes as I drove home from The Guy's Tuesday night.
Ry is 25, 6', 170lbs or so, sort of emo looking, medium brown hair, wears his hair in a fauxhawk. He lives literally in back of Disneyland. He is a grad student at a college in Anaheim. His major was geography, and undergrad was done in history. He wants to go into teaching and is doing Teach for America. He has messaged me pretty much everyday, and I've done the same to him. It's always basic texts like how are you, etc.? He likes someone who has a wide knowledge about a variety of topics, can carry on random conversations to no end, someone trustworthy and patient.
We met at TGI Fridays in Brea at the Brea Mall where we talked about lots of random stuff- his day, his car accident, his friends, his job, and teaching. I told him basics about me- teaching, school, and what I like to do for fun. We met about 7 and chatted until about 9. On the way home he was texting me about drama (because an ambulance had passed,) and suddenly I was letting out my inner Shaquana (inner black woman).
Thursday 9/14 Dinner with my mom, Linda, and Mel before I headed to escuela. Because 7.5 hours with Linda at school already was not enough.
Friday, 9/15 Dinner with my mom, Linda, and their student whose mom died. I wasn't going to go, but Linda insisted. Good shrimp enchiladas, arroz, y frijoles. My mom's student is doing much better. His older sister is a teacher about 40 miles away, and is chipping in to make sure his brothers and sisters can survive. His sister is insistent that my mom's former student will not work while in high school. They talked a lot about his aspirations to be a science teacher, and students that were in my mom and Linda's class seeing how everyone was.
Saturday, 9/16 Date #2 with Ry. We agreed earlier in the week to hang out tonight. He has a love of food like I do. I said we should go to the Santa Ana Arts Festival because there were a couple food trucks. He didn't have anything planned, but he had never done a food truck, but wanted, so that was in order. I drove down to his place in Anaheim, and he drove us down to Santa Ana. We found the trucks without any problem. He went around taking pics as we walked of the architecture and food trucks. I did too. We took pictures of each other eating the food. So what did we try?
We ate: - Comodo tacos- the Indonesian Beef and Komodo steak tacos - Parmesan and garlic cheese fries from (from the Comodo Taco Truck) - Dirty dog (hot dog from street vendor) with shredded cheese, bacon wrapped hot dog, onions and peppers, mayo on top - Barbecue pork and beef sliders from Uncle Lau's barbecue. - We didn't get to try the Tropical Ice because it was 70 degrees, and too cold.
He really enjoyed it. We took turns paying. He paid for the hot dogs, I paid for the sliders and waters, he got the tacos and fries. We go back to his place and he tells me about his wild days from 15-19, his clubbing days, etc. He tells me now he's focused on work and school. He told me about his thesis, his cat, decorating, and stuff like that. I tell him random stories about teaching and my "wild" days. His apartment looked pretty awesome. We laid on the couch in opposite directions. His feet up over my head and my feet going down along the couch. We talked about his psycho cat. I took off about 10:30 as he was falling asleep. We hugged, something we didn't do the first date, and agreed we need to hang out again.
