Halloween Party #2

And behind door number 2 it's a lion costume and a Wizard of Oz troop heading out to North Park for a friend's 30th birthday...
Favorite costume I saw last night, a group of guys who went as The Warriors, the lead gang from Walter Hill's film of the same name. I would have taken a picture, but I didn't have any pockets. People really did up the costumes last night, even if they were just heading down the street to a bar. No just throw a pair of fake ears or phony moustache phoning it in, everyone was costumed to the hilt in full force. It made for fun times.

Halloween Party #1

Wow. Got invited to a killer birthday party in San Diego. Really cool people and it was an '80s party, right in my wheelhouse. All the way up in Leucadia, on a beautiful secluded street just off the 5. Costume parties are always the best because everyone has to commit. If you costume up, you can't break away to some civilian obligation. And if you show up to a costume party without a costume, well then you're the outcast.

No slackers here, everyone was decked out. Leotards, hair sprayed wigs, plenty of ripped denim and fluorescent leg warmers, this party was legit. There was even a breakdancing-dance off. You read that right. A complete breakdancing throwdown showdown. It was like a scene out of Breakin' with white surfer dudes.

Meanwhile, inside you could play Super Mario Bros. on Nintendo. There weren't more than 30 people there, but it was totally decked out. And there was even a huge dog rocking a jean jacket with a Metallica sticker.

I went as Sonny Crockett. On the way up, I stopped to buy a bottle of wine at a very busy liquor store. There I am, linen pants, turquoise shirt, linen jacket, and I didn't even get one raised eyebrow. I don't think anyone there considered that I was going to a costume party.

Southern California.

Hump Day

Pushing through the week. Our training for the acting/merchandising job brought us to El Cajon today. My first time there and it is closer than I thought (about half an hour). There are 3 other guys in the training group, all actors slash something else out of necessity. I like them all and I enjoy being trained and coached as an actor, for me there's something very comfortable and liberating about that environment. Plus, we all get to talk about our creative pursuits and receive support and knowledge as opposed to blank stares.

On the way home tonight, I heard an incredible tune by Faithless/Dido on the radio. Faithless is one of my favorite groups and I don't think I've ever heard them on US radio before, so that was pretty bitching.

In other news:

This damn script memorization has kept me away from playing any instruments, so I'm looking forward to the arrival of the weekend for some more time. In addition, my main iPod is still on strike, so my music selection has been limited.

Is it me, or does this witch need to find something better to do with her time?

Finally put up a couple new posts on The Examiner.

California is in dire straits. Stratospheric unemployment, bankrupt, political gridlock. And here are our choices for governor: Meg Whitman and Jerry Brown. The former is a self-absorbed corporate slickster who never even voted until recently deciding on a career in politics to add a feather to her own cap, she'll lower taxes, help the corporations and increase the divide between the rich and the poor. The latter is an overcaffeinated crackpot who is overly liberal and has a prolific career in public service that unfortunately has a great number of potholes. He'll raise taxes and I doubt he has the answers to improving our economy.
Still, I think he's the lesser evil. But I'm not an official resident and won't be voting. You can watch this video if you want, but skip up to minute 17, when Matt Lauer asks about stopping the negative campaigning, which has been intense and demoralizing. Clearly, the people are weary and tired of it. Meg Whitman doesn't get it. We are far too negative these days, but rather than focus on her own vision, Meg Whitman can only point out the flaws of another and complain about the (unfair and inappropriate) comments made about her by the Brown campaign. The real highlight is Governor Schwarzenegger simultaneously buoying the spirits of the citizens and crushing Meg Whitman's campaign promise to make California golden again. I praise Schwarzenegger for stating, rightly, that California is a golden state.

Happiness With Sis

So great to have Amy out here the last few days. The playoffs, The Lamplighter, The Patriots, great food at the best places all over town, and just pure fun and comfort. Can't wait for her next visit. Love you, sis...

Good Times At The Lamplighter

We walked into the Lamplighter with nary a soul there. Could this really be place that is known for being one of the best karaoke bars in San Diego? 45 minutes later, an active and attractive crowd began to fill in and line up their songs. 45 minutes after that, it was standing room only and so loud you couldn't hear the person 12 inches away from you. Great songs, awful songs. Good singing, terrible singing. A wonderful amount of unbalanced exhibitionism, reckless abandon and good cheer. We didn't even have to pay a cover. It was a good night in Mission Hills.

Deja Vu

As I sat down to write this post, everything about my setting and subject flashed back to me from previous dream. I have no idea how long ago I had that dream, and before I sat down I had no indication that this situation was familiar. But there it was in a flash.

Wild.

So, the car has recently passed 121,000 miles. A cake will be forthcoming. I needed an oil change and was referred to EconoLube down by an In 'N Out Burger near Route 5. Went down this morning and saw that they indeed offered a $10 oil change, but then listed subsequent services in this fashion:

Better Oil Change $25
Premium Oil Change $45
Best Oil Change (Synthetic) $55

This reminded me of lap dance pricing and I was immediately sketched out and hit the road. I pulled into a Valvoline for a synthetic oil change, then was told to replace the filters and the spark plugs, $270 later the car is running great.

It's chilly and intermittently cloudy here. My sister is flying down now from Salt Lake City. Should be a good weekend.

Some Time Between Worry, Sleep, and Tomorrow's Fresh Start

And for that verbose title, it's just a link to a really awesome song:
http://www.4shared.com/audio/KavoUnzx/07_-_Faithless_-_Love_Is_My_Co.html

Hunter's Moon

Tonight at around nine thirty marks the Hunter's Moon, the one that is bright enough for the farmers to reap their crops under the moonlight. Full moons bring strange dreams and odd things, and this one is fulfilling its role. I thought being out here, under the sun, next to the water, I could somehow stave off darkness. Not so.

Here in Southern California, Halloween is promoted like Christmas, because it heralds a change, a moment, a day, a mood, a sentiment. Maybe I should say mindset. Halloween is a big holiday, but you can't go ten feet out here without seeing decorations, a store that has changed its entire inventory to costumes, or a promotion for a party. It is all consuming. I've already had a couple Halloween plans fall through. I expect this is in preparation for some fantastic last minute party. We'll see.

This morning, everything seemed bright and gleaming. Somehow, something in the afternoon turned it all to gloom, confusion, and doom. When that happened I went to the bay, which was a good move. A pelican flew right by me, the thing was really moving out, that's unusual. I saw lots of dogs. I was down there for two hours as the sun set, unfortunately obscured by clouds. I walked into the ocean which was wonderfully warm. I discovered the filling moon, which explains the dreams and the precipitating mood. Not just for me but for many. I came out here in order to break from the life I saw unfolding for me without a change. Now I have no clue what lies in store. Just have to keep going and realize what will be. Which cannot be determined.

At a second interview today astutely pointed out that I was at a crossroads. He was at a similar one when he was 32, except he'd been working in a fish cannery at the time. John Sayles worked in a fish cannery after graduating from Williams. 10 years ago I saw him as some sort of role model, and my life right now could not be farther from that type of success. Funny how life twists and turns and goes astray. I'd much rather write movies than be a financial planner. Have a movie idea at the moment, but that's not going to pay any bills in the immediate future. Music seems to perk people's interest. My singing and playing are really improving, but I need to get better at keys and programming. And that's not going to pay any bills any time soon either. But I'm going to keep doing it.

All my eggs are in this basket. I put 'em there. Can't let 'em break.

Full moons bring weirdness in their anticipation, but they also herald new beginnings. So that means a new door opening. May it lead to brighter days for one and all.

Songs for the day, both are worth it:

Orange Crush

Sat outside last night looking at intermittent lightening (about 20 seconds apart) and listening to slow rolling thunder. The temperature cooled five degrees in the space of an hour. This morning, I saw sun streaking through the window for the first time in a week. Within twenty minutes it was gone. I walked down to the bay and saw a heavy presence of dark clouds, but also a few strokes of blue in the sky. I figured the clouds would move out and we'd have our first sunny day since the Sunday of Columbus Day weekend. Instead, the skies opened up just after 12:30. I doubted there was any way the rain would last more than a few moments. Nine hours later, it is still raining steadily. However, for a brief stretch around dusk, there was a magnificent sunset. As I put away my laundry and re-arranged my closet, I caught a glimpse of neon orange and electric violet sky. I couldn't believe it. Stopped what I was doing and went straight out to the bay. These pictures don't do it justice. For about 15 minutes this evening, the sky was vibrant and inspiring. The rain must have been on break, but it returned to take center stage. Didn't expect days like this out here, but I'm very grateful for it. I love weather. I love the changes. I couldn't live out here full time, but I would be thrilled to have an international lifestyle, or at least a bi-coastal one.

Hope everyone had a wonderful day and I wish you a pleasant tomorrow.

Many Rivers To Cross

As for today, one of the busiest days I’ve had here. 2 interviews, one on Camino Del Rio, of course (that’s where I’ve had easily a dozen interviews so far), and the other in La Jolla. Then over to Point Loma for an orientation of sorts for the job I did get as an actor/merchandiser (from Saturday's audition). I have a 6 page single spaced script to be fully memorized in one week, so once I do that we’ll talk more about the job. Just thinking right now, 3 different areas, only about a 15 mile radius, but I covered all of it in a reasonable amount of time. If I were doing the same thing in Los Angeles, we’d be factoring in an extra hour or even two to do all of that. Big reason why I chose San Diego.

Both interviews (one for financial planning, the other for marketing) went well, neither job is for me. One seems very good, the other very bad, I’m sure I would get hired doing either. I’m still planning to follow through on at least one as I think it’s worth it to build up my network. More important, finally, after months of futility, I’m starting to get some better meetings.

Back to Crown Point for a bit to check in on the home front, which had been weighing on my mind all day and for weeks before that. Mom sounded good. Sounds like some rays of sunshine came through this lingering cloud. Mom deserves the best, she is loved and needed. Very happy to know that we have a positive foundation to build on to move through this ugly cloud.

Went off to my final yoga class at Power Core Fusion, a studio whose name sounds like the title of an action movie. The free, week long pass was given to me by a bartender I met a couple weeks ago who is training to be an instructor. The classes were terrific. Great energy, excellent workout, tremendous spirit. And fantastic music. As these clouds have hung over San Diego, music has become even more important and meaningful. The music in each and every class was first rate, and some selections are included below. All songs I have already, but hearing them in this environment helped strengthen the connection. Also, the male: female ratio in each class was about 1:7, so perks all around. And even though in one pose tonight I felt my left leg almost pop out of its socket, I had a wonderful time and found some peace, clarity, and positivity. I went by later tonight to thank the bartender, she was happy to hear that I had such a good experience. If she hadn't suggested that to me a couple weeks ago, my past week would have been very different.

Quick side note on music, earlier today I was driving along Mission Boulevard which borders the shoreline. I was rolling along in my suit and the radio began to play Katy Perry's "California Girls." I don't think there is anyone in the country over the age of 14 who isn't now totally annoyed by this song, even if at one point they liked it. But, somehow, I haven't heard it in a few weeks. So I was pumped and cranked it up. Windows down, cruising. I hit a stop light and came alongside a weary and very defeated man sitting on the corner, alongside his wheelchair and, seemingly, all of his earthly possessions. I must have looked like the epitome of carefree materialism. I knew I had exactly $1 in cash in my pocket. I pulled the car over and gave it to him. He smiled at me.

Good day today. As my mom said to me earlier, let’s keep this momentum moving ahead.

Enjoy the songs below...

Some Rest, Reflection, Renewal

The sun has not shined on San Diego for over a week. Last Sunday was brilliantly sunny and warm. Since then, it has been cloudy and cool every day, without variation. So, the tone here is a bit different. Nevertheless, there is still beauty to be found underneath the clouds.

Discovering that what I always considered mist passes for rain out here. With that acceptance, I was able to walk in the rain last night in Pacific Beach, and today in Little Italy. No need for an umbrella (which I never cared for anyway) or even a hood, though my hair did get a bit frizzy. I did see some people seeking refuge under store canopies and awnings, that just made me smile. Spent the afternoon back at the apartment and checked in with a couple of my neighbors. I am fortunate to be living alongside some very nice people, kind and supportive.

Spent time on the phone with my wonderful family, who all sounded happy today. That made me feel very good. I miss them.

Tonight I went to an evening yoga class filled wall to wall with people. Still I never felt crowded. As you often hear in classes, your mat is your place, and all that you need. Tonight that was very true. The class was challenging and cleansing, yet incredibly tranquil. Great music, too. Often times I find my mind just runs out of control despite my attempts to clear it. Tonight my mind felt more like 3am traffic flowing easily over a bridge. Cars spread out and moving but all in the same direction with plenty of space and no concern for collision.

After class I directed my sweat soaked body to the beach. My requisite beach bag is a bit depleted since I had used the towel earlier this week for yoga class so I just peeled off my sweatlogged t-shirt and walked down to the shore in my bathing suit, hoodie, and flip flops. The beach was pretty deserted. It was 6:15, with the sky darkening on an already misty, cloudy day. A very cheery, hippyish girl was walking up towards the boardwalk. Somehow she knew my intention and cautioned, "it's going to be fucking cold you know." "Most likely," I replied with a smile. I stared out at the waves for a few minutes. There was one lonely surfer to my left and to my right a ballerina like beauty running back and forth to the shore line in a flowing skirt as she kicked and twirled. I took off my sweatshirt and darted into the water, moving quickly with determination. After eight strides I launched forward in a surprisingly well coiled dive underneath an oncoming breaker. My body was charged from head to toe. I did not feel any cold. The other day by the lifeguard station they listed the water temperature at 65 degrees. Well the air temperature today was only about 64 degrees. The water is just as comforting as the air. It felt so good. A few arches and submersions and it was time to head back to the shore. The days are getting shorter and shorter. Today was a good day.

Time to go home and relax. What's on 60 Minutes?

Stand Down on 60 Minutes

Tonight marked the broadcast of the 60 Minutes profile on the annual Stand Down event. Of course, I discovered this by chance in Pacific Time, so the link is below for everyone to check it out.

However you may feel about the piece, you have to believe in the amazing intentions of the Stand Down program. It is disgraceful that our government cannot provide for those that serve to protect it. I was a bit thrown off by the focus on addiction for many of the displaced veterans. That comes across as a cop out seeing as we have lowered our standards for those fit to serve, and consequently we are getting younger recruits with less education, more likely a weaker family base, fewer opportunities, and then shipping them off to live under constant threat. Seems a bit unfair to then look down on somebody who develops a dependency.

This is another glaring example of the deterioration of America, not just the circumstances around us, but the attitude that we often ascribe them. We are becoming further isolated and detached from one another, and too many are getting swallowed up in the cracks. Meanwhile, the majority of our elected officials have been twiddling their thumbs waiting around for mid-term elections before they decide how to proceed. They have no understanding of what it means to hold office. America was founded on the power of the people, but it has become a place where the people are the last to be considered. How do we change it?

http://www.cbsnews.com/video/watch/?id=6966795n&tag=contentMain;cbsCarousel

Waiting For A Break

This song is from one of my favorite movies, The Big Tease. A tale of showing up in LA with nothing, determined to find your way to the top. Speaks for itself.

..A Different Direction

Didn't get the part. No worries. The experience of today was valuable enough.

The Show Must Go On

Woke up very early this morning, after a very disruptive sleep. Felt lousy. It's been cloudy here all week long, today was not exception. I moved into the living room and thought about how I wasn't going to do anything today, that I was all alone and that nothing would happen. Of course I didn't like that thought. I didn't feel good, most likely from stress and lack of sleep. But I just kept telling myself that I have time, I have time, don't rush anything.

After a couple hours that included some intermittent sleep, I got up on my feet. Though I'd spent the morning pretty certain that I would blow off the audition I had scheduled for this afternoon, I suddenly decided that I was going to make it, even though I didn't have a second monologue memorized yet. I started to clean. I made tea. I moved the bed into a new spot, out from under the window. Checking my email, I saw I had some traction on from my resume sendouts. Looks like I have a couple interviews set up for next week. Bullshit commission based stuff, but both are one on ones and I figure it's worth the practice.

Though I'd picked out a second monologue a few days ago, I had yet to commit to memory, but I had read it over a few times. I figured I could use a section of the Blake scene in Glengarry Glen Ross as the back up. The more I was up and around, the better I felt. I practiced the two monologues sporadically as I went through my chores. With no iPod station, I was undeterred by music. Shaved, showered and kept reciting the speeches. Came out of the shower and put together a(n unimpressive) list of past acting credits. Went to a print shop in La Jolla to print out the resume and a self portrait I've had to use for a head shot. After that, onto San Diego State University.

I felt great. Comfortable, a bit excited. Parked in the garage and walked across the campus. People were very helpful directing me to the library. Once inside I took a minute to gather myself and then set off for the audition room. There were four kids holding the audition, director, producer, DP, sound editor. They all looked like children to me. Perhaps due to their context or out of naivete, they asked me what year I was. This made me smile. I was year 33, a solid decade past their arena. But they were all incredibly nice. The script was assigned to them, they'll use one day to shoot, one day for a back up, and then have two weeks to cut it together. I sat at a table across from them in this tiny corner room in the basement of the library, the digital video camera was up on a tripod in the corner. I did my two monologues, one seated, the other standing, and then did a read on some excerpts from the script. The DP filmed, the producer and sound editor watched, the director took notes, which were unobscured and maybe 20 inches in front of me. I glanced at his notes but didn't look too much in order to keep myself focused. He gave me some direction and had me do the excerpts a second time. They told me notices would go out in the evening. I thanked them for the opportunity and wished them the best of luck with the casting and the project.

Walked out and felt great. So glad I did not give into worry and doubt and waste my day wallowing in fear and frustration. Instead, I got out and made some stuff happen. Nothing will likely come of it, but I know that I did a good job. I have another audition lined up tomorrow. If I can't get interviews, I may as well try to get some exposure elsewhere. I'm still meeting people and going to different places. I'm tired of kicking around and standing in place. The fewer things I try, the fewer opportunities I give myself. Today proved to be a very good exercise. As Shakespeare said, 'the show must go on.'

Song to Share

As the computer with my iTunes library is still in need of an external hard drive, I have not added any new music to my collection since I left home back in June. With no new albums or playlists, I set my iPod on shuffle more often than not. Some days my shuffle is happy, and plays great dance music, other days it is depressed, and plays morose tragic music. As of last night, my docking station is out of order, so no music today. However, the other day, before the docking station went down, shuffle selected "Looking For A Rainbow" by Chris Rea. Great song that's stuck with me sense, as it relates to my situation. The video is entirely non-representative, but it's a good song.

When In Doubt, Gamble

Thrilled by the Texas win over Tampa Bay, I went out and acquainted myself with the local Trader Joe's. Though I've walked or drove by it countless times, I somehow did not alert my brain to its existence. So last night I went in just to upload it to my brain.
I didn't buy anything, but was very excited by the prices and selection. Trader Joe's rocks.

On a whim, I stopped into the PB Pub which is right around the corner. I was the youngest person in the place. I ordered a drink and with nothing to do, no one to talk to, I decided to play Hot Spot, the California version of Keno. Three games, three numbers, all related to those in my heart. I picked the right ones for the right time. Won $22. My bet was $6. Almost a three hundred percent profit. Aside from a couple music prizes I was awarded in high school, that's the most money I've ever won. Pleased, I knew that was enough for me, time to head home.

Darkness

It's 7pm and pitch black outside. What a drag. A week from now, it will be that way at 6. See you on the other side, sunshine.

Enjoy Your Monday

Above is the most succinct assessment of the honoree of today's holiday.

10/10/10

Sunday evening in San Diego. 10/10/10. Lately, I don't like the weekends out here. For everyone else, it is a time to head out and cut loose. For me, it becomes I time to withdraw. Since my time in the restaurant business, working the odd schedules, I've never felt that comfortable being out amongst the masses on Saturday nights. Until the past couple of years, I never enjoyed Sundays. Sundays always reminded me of dreading the return to school, another week of discomfort. I finally got past all that.

But now that it is Fall, it is football season. And, out in Southern California, football season is a big deal. Particularly college football, and bars literally become saturated with fans dressed in their school colors, screaming and cheering each movement of the game. It's loud. As someone who could really care less about football, I find it obnoxious. Of course, I have nothing against the fans, it's more the hangers on. There are so many people who don't have allegiance to anything, they are perfectly willing to assume a role of devotion in order to fit in with the crowd. Consequently they are louder and more histrionic than the true fans. In other words, they're annoying.

So, when it comes to the weekend I avoid bars and restaurants. Fortunately this week has brought the opening round of the Major League playoffs which, along with the new furniture, have enabled me to hide away and get lost in baseball. I'm hoping the Rangers can pull out a series win and knock out the Rays, and it's look like it will be Philadelphia and San Francisco over in the National League. If that's the case, let's go Giants.

Today is 10/10/10, one of those interesting calendar anomalies. Don't remember too much about 09/09/09, but that was a week in between some great activities: seeing The Killers and Pet Shop Boys in Boston at the outset and then heading down to Wilkes Barre for Gibby and Melissa's wedding the following weekend. Very good times. I still remember 8/8/88 very clearly. We took a group photo on a magnificently sunny day at Cape Cod Sea Camps in Brewster, I'll never forget the look of the bright blue sky and magnificent sunshine. That was also the date of the first night game at Wrigley Field, an event that was captured in six foot panoramic shot that hung above my bed for many years of my childhood.

Don't have any comparative stories for today. Woke up, stretched, waited for the cable guy, made breakfast, went over to help Tom and Jamie clear out the yard at their new house, went jogging, here we are. But there is no need for today's events to be significant. The numerical symmetry of the calendar is cool enough.

Hope everyone had a great day, and wishing you a restful night before, hopefully, a nice extra day off tomorrow.

Zoo Walk

Out the door at 6:30am this morning, headed for the San Diego Zoo. This marked the first sun rise I have seen since arriving here at the end of June. Yes, it was beautiful, but my eyes were only half open so I can't provide all that much detail about it. Pink, orange, red, glow, lovely...that's all I've got.

All the participants received bib numbers like you would for a marathon. We also got a nice canvas bag (good for groceries) filled with a canine pooper scooper, dog's chew toy, and human's event t-shirt. At least I can use one of the items. Wish I had a dog, but I can barely take care of myself these days.

There was a great collection of volunteers to provide enthusiastic support for the 2 and a half mile walk. Every 40 feet or so, somebody wearing an event shirt and beads was screaming their encouragement to inspire us to keep forging ahead around the perimeter of the zoo. Pretty safe to say that these people aren't there during normal zoo hours. There were also various local musicians spread out along the walk: a blues band, a guy playing guitar, a group of African drummers, and a pre-teenage heavy metal cover band. All of the acts were good. There was also the appearance of a Miss Teen Vista, and Miss Teen some other town in San Diego County. That was a bit odd, I guess to compete you only need to be 16. Weird. I did, however, appreciate the support of the SDSU cheerleaders. Though the whole squad didn't make it out, their presence, and encouragement, was very welcome.

So, in spite of all of these added attractions, most of the animals were still lost in slumber. I don't blame them. However, it was beautiful to see the small herd of elephants waking up against the rising sun. These beautiful, intelligent creatures seemed warmed by early crowd of onlookers. One of the big guys even waved his trunk to the crowd, while the others meandered in the distance. An absolutely beautiful male lion and his lionness were non-plussed by the ensuing throng, laying down comfortably, graceful, appearing almost statuesque in their beauty and stillness. Though they were the inspiration for the walk, the polar bears were still asleep as we all passed by. However, a few of their global cousins were out and about in their own enclosures.

Though I took some time to embrace the presence of these wonderful creatures, for the most part I kept moving. As you all know, I'm not a morning person. Still, I had a smile on my face and the excitement of a child at several moments along the way.
Then, towards the end of the walk, I had a wonderful experience.

Despite all of the people making their way around the zoo, there was a moment where I found myself almost alone. I was the only human along the path, but staring out at me from an alcove in her enclosure was an absolutely majestic Transvaal lionness. Her hypnotic and beautiful eyes locked with mine. The world became still. A profound energy filled my body. We had made contact. Once our connection was made, I smiled and sent out my reverence and positivity. I released my gaze from her enchanting sun like eyes, and could feel almost a physical break as I moved back on my way.

Zoos can be very sad places. The San Diego Zoo is not. It is a wonderful place. The animals are treated so well and given so much room to move. I feel like they are almost like wealthy animals that have moved into luxury condos where everything is provided for them.

There are so many problems in our world today, it is very hard to focus on one cause or the other, especially when so many are fighting just to stay afloat. Yet today was a day of joy and connection; walking alongside children, young and old, delighting in the presence of some of the world's most magnificent creatures. Bearing witness in a zoo is certainly nothing like the wild, but it offers a reminder to those who may never get the chance to go on safari that these animals are a special part of our world, and makes them more likely to fight to keep them a part of it.

As our world gets smaller and humans seek to possess all they desire, more and more animals are displaced. Some magnificent animals such as Siberian tigers, who have no natural predators, are living on the verge of extinction thanks to poaching, as mercenaries seek out to murder animals so that some vainglorious rich asshole can possess an element of nature that they themselves don't have the balls to challenge directly. Sadly, zoos can provide a last refuge for these coveted giants. Let's hope that is not the case, let us not drive any more animals to extinction.

Wine Class

Spent today doing my usual job search, then assembling furniture. Fortunately the latter task was surprisingly easy. Good thing since it is something that I really can't stand. But now things in the apartment are a bit more comfortable.

Didn't venture out until the evening when I attended a wine class focusing on the regions of northwest Spain. The class was held in a Spanish style mansion in Balboa Park, a cultural center of San Diego. The park is home to many museums as well as the San Diego Zoo. The building I was in is known as The Prado and houses a beautiful restaurant. We were tucked away in a small room upstairs with a large oak-wood table and chairs. It felt like we could be discussing an upcoming battle or proposed conquest, very old-world. Instead, we were learning about the wines of Northern Spain.

Our instructor, John Alonge, was terrific. A Frenchman transplanted to San Diego because, as he put it, nowhere else can compete the weather here. John had a tremendous breadth of knowledge and relaxed attitude, he was as much a student as he was an instructor. There was no debate between the group about what we were tasting, simply an outlay of facts regarding each wine's production and history. This is exactly how wine learning should take place. It is about personal experience, shared experience, it is never a lecture and there is no such thing as right or wrong.

There were 9 of us in the class. Other than the heavily tattooed gay man next to me who reeked of marijuana, I was the only one not wearing a wedding ring. We interacted as a class, but there was not much interaction between us. Still, it was a very relaxing and informative evening.

On the way out, I stopped at The Lamplighter to watch some of playoff game. As it is been hailed as "Best Karaoke Bar in San Diego," I was hoping The Lamplighter had a rollicking scene going and could become my new karaoke home. I walked into a place populated with about 7 heavy set, middle-aged, marginally employed guys and two middle aged women with heavy ink and smokers coughs. No karaoke. Quick soda water, one inning of the game, then out the door.

A kid who plays guitar at the Tiki Bar sent a mass-text to let everyone know he was playing at The Australian Pub. I stopped in on my way back and found a dingy bar and slacker crowd being regaled by an AC/DC cover band. All the members were dressed exactly like their famous role models. Have to admit, they were pretty good, and how fitting that they were playing at The Australian Pub. They must be a hit there. The kid who invited me was pretty happy to see me and said I was the only one from the text who had shown up. That's because I haven't been here long enough to be a total flake. I stuck around for a bit and watched him jam out with one of the other acts, then it was off to bed. My last night on the aero-mattress. The queen size bed I'd purchased the day before in Ocean Beach would be arriving in the morning. Please, powers that be, let that new job and promising career begin very soon....

Elephant Walk Info

Here is some more info on this weekend's elephant walk:
http://donate.sandiegozoo.org/site/TR/Walk/WalkontheWildSide2010?px=1944517&pg=personal&fr_id=1130

The Elephant Walk

Great day today.

Didn't sleep well last night. But, during the intermittent sleep, I awoke to light rain outside the window. Making it very easy to fall back asleep. Once morning broke, I finally woke up for real and went for a run around the Bay, convinced that it would be a sunny day. The sun never broke through.

Waited on a friend to come by and help me pick up a couch. We knocked that out pretty quickly. Then I went out in search of more furniture. I discovered the neighborhood of Mission Hills, which I had previously seen only on the outskirts. It's cool there. There's a bar there called The Lamplighter, which I'd heard of, that is known as the best karaoke bar in San Diego. As faithful readers may be wondering, Xavier's closed back in August, and I have not ventured out into karaoke land since. The Lamplighter gives me hope. During the day it was filled with out of work middle aged guys and one gorgeous bartender with a mammoth round ass. This is typical of many bars in San Diego, with the exception of the mammoth round assed bartender, most of the other bartenders are more surfer-type bodes, and typically adorned with excessive tattoos and piercings. Win some, lose some. In any case, I was glad for the discovery and for the soda water and bitters. Watched the first inning of the Reds-Phillies game there, no idea that I was about to miss a no-hitter.

Went to pick up my catering check. I got paid a measly $10 an hour. So the check came to $69 and change. By the time I was at IKEA, I got a call for a gig tomorrow as a dishwasher. Is this what I've come to??? I was on board to do it as it was from 12-4. But then they called back and changed the hours from 12-6. I registered for a wine class tomorrow, and that cost $35, so I wasn't about to throw that out the window and turned the job down due to the conflict. If the job ran 'til 4 I could do it and come close to recouping the cost of the class, and still be able to go to the class. If I took it with the hours 'till six, I would break even in cost but lose the class. I'll take the education.

Around 4pm I wound up in Ocean Beach. The farmer's market, which occurs in each neighborhood on a different day of the week around San Diego, was in Ocean Beach today, Wednesday. The day arrived here, Wednesday, June 30, I pulled into Ocean Beach for the farmer's market. Today was coincidence. Yet I got so much out of it. I walked between the stands into the middle of the street and was greeted by three llamas. They were on their break, eating tall grass out of plastic bins. They were happy to see me. I did not disturb them. But I was absolutely elated to see them. We shared our telepathic exchange. I then moved on to the other side of the street.

Two stands down, I found a Russian stand selling blini. 2 for $5. Fantastic. They were delicious, but I only know that because I've had much better.

I ran into a guy who stopped me because I was wearing my COMBAT ZONE, BOSTON t-shirt, which is money. He was an Irishman who used to live in Dorchester before moving West to work in construction without the interruption of winter. He's been here for 25 years, and loves Ocean Beach.

Every interaction today was easy, smooth, and organic. I had a new friend provide me a favor. I met new people. I felt valued. I bumped into wonderful things that were right there. Today reminded me of why I wanted to move here.

Thank you for today.

Also. Earlier today I saw a billboard for a Zoo Walk this Saturday which is aiming to raise money for elephant support. I registered and will walk. You can find more information below:
http://sdzoo.convio.net/site/TR/Walk/WalkontheWildSide2010?fr_id=1130&pg=pfind

Quick Plug

Still not ready to share my collection of LA stories out here, but here's a quick plug for you.

Met some friends of friends the other night at what my buddy and I presumed to be a German restaurant. We both pictured the sausage haus from the first date in Fast Times In Ridgemont High. Hulking plates, dark lighting, red leather booths, and huge steins of beer. Instead, we were at a lovely Swiss bistro. Bright lights, brick walls, wood fixtures, and moderate steins of beer.
It was pretty wild, sitting at an authentic Swiss restaurant in LA literally two weeks after sitting at a truly authentic Swiss restaurant in Verbier two weeks to the day before.

You can check the place out here, if you're ever in LA, I'd certainly recommend it. Great food, lovely setting.
http://www.chaletedelweiss.us/

October, Monday

Woke up in LA this morning to a comforting rain outside the window. Then I realized that I was waking up in LA. And it was raining outside. It all seemed perfectly natural to me since I was staying with a friend whose parents live around the corner from my house back in Mass. We're used to this stuff. But here we were in LA with raindrops falling down under grey skies. Odd.

On the way south back to San Diego I figured the rain would subside. It didn't, only varying in degrees as I went through one town into another. Once I finally made it back to Pacific Beach I could see sun out to the west over the water. No precipitation. But it is in the low 60s and grey. Just a few miles inland it's raining. How strange. Some merchants apologized to me for moving to San Diego at such a gloomy time. I was pleasantly surprised that they didn't blame me for bringing the bad weather out here.

After a few errands, I stopped along the shores of La Jolla at Bird Rock Beach. Here are a few photos.

Debut

Made some eggs this morning with my new Calphalon non-stick pan. Worked like a dream.

Thanks, Mom.

Linner

There are some days where I only eat once. This started on the cross country trip. There's not motivation behind it, simply a case of being distracted or preoccupied. Today was one of those days, therefore I just finished what could be called my dunch or linner, as it will be my only meal today.

I slow cooked some pulled pork in barbeque sauce, lime juice, and spices. I didn't really do it properly, only spent about 4 hours over low heat. Nevertheless it made for great sandwiches. Pulled chicken with chopped onion and dill pickles on fresh buns toasted in olive oil, one had meunster cheese, the other Irish cheddar. All that paired with mineral water and a California Red Zinfandel. Lovely.

As the Red Sox game is in a delay, I watched a bit of the Braves Phillies matchup. Since the Padres blew it last night, and this week, and this past month, it would take a Braves collapse to give them some chance at the post-season, but either way they have to win every game. National League games lag a bit, fortunately Encore is showing Never Say Never Again, one of the best bonds, even though it's an unofficial entry in the series. Klaus Maria Brandauer is probably the best ever bond villain, though I'm also partial to Christopher Lee in The Man With The Golden Gun. Both films are also neck for best bond babes, Kim Basinger and Barbera Carerra in the former, then Britt Ekland and Maud Adams in the latter. Marvelous.

Some Photos From Our Stormy Day

Continuation

Saw a beautiful rainbow. Made a wish. Took another walk. Saw lightening. A ton of lightening in San Diego today, trees set on fire.

Watched the Padres game. They actually had the tarp on the field and delayed the start of the game. I know this is ironic, but what a kroc! I learned a new term today. Virga. Rain that does not fall. There were clouds, lightening, thunder, but very little rain. Plenty of virga. Do you think Ray Krok, mastermind of McDonald's, would let some virga interrupt his game when the post-season was at stake??? No surprise, the Pads lost! Now they have to sweep the Giants just to qualify a one game playoff to reach the post-season. After leading in first until the middle of September! What a joke!

Happy October, everyone!