Dreary City

Genesis Concert This Sunday

2007-09-08T03:00:00.000-07:00

ONE FOR THE VINE

Fifty thousand men were sent
to do the will of one
His claim was phrased quite
simply, though he never voiced
it loud
I am he, the chosen one

In his name they could slaughter,
for his name they could die
Many there were believed in him,
still more were sure he lied
But they'll fight the battle on

Then one whose faith had died
Fled back up the mountainside
But before the top was made
A misplaced footfall made him stray
From the path prepared for him
Off of the mountain
On to a wilderness of ice

This unexpected vision made him
stand and shake with fear
But nothing was his fright
compared with those who saw
him appear
Terror filled their minds with awe

Simple were the folk who lived
Upon this frozen wave
So not surprising was their thought
This is he, God's chosen one
Who's come to save us from
All our oppressors
We shall be kings on this world

Follow me
I'll play the game you want me
Until I find a way back home

Follow me
I give you strength inside you
Courage to win your battles

No, no, no, this can't go on
This will be all that I fled from
Let me rest for a while

He walked into a valley
All alone
There he talked with water
and then with the vine

They leave me no choice
I must lead them to glory or
most likely to death
They traveled cross the plateau
of ice, up to its edge
Then they crossed a mountain range
and saw the final plain
Still he urged the people on

Then, on a distant slope
He observed one without hope
Flee back up the mountainside
He thought he recognized him by his walk
And by the way he fell
And by the way he
Stood up, and vanished into air

2007-08-22T05:02:00.000-07:00

Men Are Just Happier People:

-- What do you expect from such simple creatures?

-Your last name stays put.
-The garage is all yours.
-Wedding plans take care of themselves.
-Chocolate is just another snack.
-You can be President.
-You can never be pregnant.
-You can wear a white T-shirt to a water park. You can wear NO shirt to a water park.
-Car mechanics tell you the truth.
-The world is your urinal.
-You never have to drive to another gas station restroom because this one is just too icky.
-You don't have to stop and think of which way to turn a nut on a bolt.
-Same work, more pay.
-Wrinkles add character.
-Her Wedding dress - $5000. Your Tux rental - $100.
-People never stare at your chest when you're talking to them.
-The occasional well-rendered belch is practically expected.
-New shoes don't cut, blister, or mangle your feet.
-One mood all the time.
-Phone conversations are over in 30 seconds flat.
-You know stuff about tanks.
-A five-day vacation requires only one suitcase.
-You can open all your own jars.
-You get extra credit for the slightest act of thoughtfulness.
-If someone forgets to invite you, he or she can still be your friend.
-Your underwear is $8.95 for a three-pack.
-Three pairs of shoes are more than enough.
-You almost never have strap problems in public.
-You are unable to see wrinkles in your clothes.
-Everything on your face stays its original color.
-The same hairstyle lasts for years, maybe decades.
-You only have to shave your face and neck.
-You can play with toys all your life.
-Your belly usually hides your big hips.
-One wallet and one color for all seasons.
-You can wear shorts no matter how your legs look.
-You can "do" your nails with a pocket knife.
-You have freedom of choice concerning growing a mustache.
-You can do Christmas shopping for 25 relatives on December 24 in 25 minutes.

No wonder men are happier.

Men's Rules:

2007-07-13T05:57:00.000-07:00

1. Men are NOT mind readers.

1. Learn to work the toilet seat.
You're a big girl. If it's up, put it down.
We need it up, you need it down.
You don't hear us complaining about you leaving it down.

1. Sunday sports. It's like the full moon
or the changing of the tides.
Let it be.

1. Shopping is NOT a sport.
And no, we are never going to think of it that way.

1. Crying is blackmail.

1. Ask for what you want.
Let us be clear on this one:
Subtle hints do not work!
Strong hints do not work!
Obvious hints do not work!
Just say it!

1. Yes and No are perfectly acceptable answers to almost every question.

1. Come to us with a problem only if you want help solving it. That's what we do.
Sympathy is what your girlfriends are for.

1. A headache that lasts for 17 months is a Problem.

See a doctor.

1. Anything we said 6 months ago is inadmissible in an argument.
In fact, all comments become null and void after 7 Days.

1. If you won't dress like the Victoria 's Secret girls, don't Expect us to act like soap opera guys.

1. If you think you're fat, you probably are.
Don't ask us.

1. If something we said can be interpreted two ways and one of them makes you sad or angry, then we meant the other one

1. You can either ask us to do something
Or tell us how you want it done.
Not both.
If you already know best how to do it, just do it yourself.

1. Whenever possible, Please say whatever you have to say during commercials.

1. Christopher Columbus did NOT need directions and neither do we.

1. ALL men see in only 16 colors, like Windows default settings.
Peach, for example, is a fruit, not A color. Pumpkin is also a fruit. We have no idea what mauve is.

1. If it itches, it will be scratched.
We do that.

1. If we ask what is wrong and you say "nothing," We will act like nothing's wrong.
We know you are lying, but it is just not worth the hassle, besides we know you will bring it up again later.

1. If you ask a question you don't want an answer to, Expect an answer you don't want to hear.

1. When we have to go somewhere, absolutely anything you wear is fine... Really.

1. Don't ask us what we're thinking about unless you are prepared to discuss such topics as baseball, the shotgun formation, or golf.

1. You have enough clothes.

1. You have too many shoes.

1. I am in shape. Round IS a shape!

The Heat Wave Breaks Today

2007-07-11T04:31:00.000-07:00

I try never to complain about the heat, cuz I'm an avid complainer about the cold and don't want to be a hypocrite. That being said... it's been pretty freak'n hot lately.

This week is just flying by... I am sure JENN is having a great time in Disney. I have a hearing today, then depositions tomorrow. It will be Friday before we know it. I will play some golf on Saturday, and maybe Sunday too. Not sure yet. I may go to see the new Harry Potter movie at some point as well.

I was reading the on-line paper today and saw this picture related to the heat. I liked it & wanted to share it with you.

My 4th of July

2007-07-05T04:10:00.000-07:00

The day was pretty cool, even though I am pretty lame.

I got up early and played golf at Manor Valley with 2 guys from work. I played pretty well. I did break 100 (98). The new clubs seem great... the distance, the feel... I did have a little trouble with direction at times, but hey... I have that anyway. Also, the 7 iron bump-n-run was a little tough. The ball seems to jump off the face a little more, so I was long the 2 times I tried it. What really killed my score was chipping. I need to work on that. I might just take a bucket of balls and keep hitting them till I feel more confident in that aspect of my game.

All in all, I am very pleased.

After golf... J, D & I sat at Rick's Sports Bar on Rt. 22 for a while drinking beer. (it's a pretty nice place to see a game I think) Then I stopped at Down the Road Saloon and had a couple more (which I didn't need). I then went home to take a nap (which I did need). By the time I woke up, it was too late to do anything and I had a headache, so I just stayed in.

Well, it's back to work today.

Hope you all had a great 4th.

New Golf Clubs

2007-07-03T02:17:00.000-07:00

I bought myself a new set of irons.

The Cleveland Launcher LPs...

Weekend Plans

2007-06-29T04:53:00.000-07:00

This will be a short post!!!

Basically, not much.

I may play golf with Danny at Madison Club Saturday, but not sure yet.

Sunday, Marcia wants to play golf at Birdsfoot.

Any course after Oakmont will seem easy!!!

Other than that, I see myself doing some laundry, cleaning my apartment, and doing some food shopping.

Oh.... there is a baseball game that I have tickets to see Saturday night. One of the organizations I belong to sponsors a tailgate & game for underprivileged children. I might go there... but who really wants to see a bad baseball team.

Weekend Report 6/23-6/24

2007-06-25T04:37:00.000-07:00

Well, this weekend was nothing special.

Saturday, I woke up early, as usual. Did 3 loads of laundry. Then got ready to play in a golf outing. This was a charity golf outing benefiting breast cancer research. It was a 4 person scramble. I would explain it, but MX would tune right out, so I'll pass. Anyway, our team was my friend Marcia, Teecy & Danny. We didn't do particularly well (2 under par) but had a great time. There was dinner after the golf. When that was done, I BS'd with a buddy Ed at the local bar for a while, then called it a night.

Sunday, I went to play golf with the "bar guys" at Rolling Fields. Played with a couple guys I never had before. They were pretty cool. I started out pretty good, but did not finish strong. I was hitting off the tee great... approach shots were ok... putting "lights out"... but... I could not chip to save my life. This is usually one of the strongest parts of my game. GASP!!! After that... I was going to go to a picnic. I went home to grab a shower and maybe a nap. Well, I fell asleep... and didn't wake up till it was really too late to go to the picnic. (Yes... I am a loser.)

This week should be ok. The only special thing is I am playing golf at Oakmont Wednesday. Yes... the course that Phil Mickelson called hazardous to your health. It is sooooo hard, if I score under 120 I'll be happy.

Weekend Update...

2007-06-18T04:57:00.000-07:00

Well, this weekend was the US Open Eddition...

Friday, I took the day off work so I could go to the Open at Oakmont. My cousin Janet lives about 100 yards from the Country Club, so she let me park there for free. This was especially cool because the 2 spectator lots were so far away from where I live (which is about 10 min. away from the venue). So... Jim from work and his wife were going to the Open as well. I told them if they picked me up, we could leave the car there... it worked out great. We got to the club just as Michelson and Furyk were starting # 3 (with the "church pew" bunkers). We watched them for a little while... then sat at the green of #8 (the longest par 3 in US Open history). After, we wandered over by #18... this was where I ditched Jim & Molly. We agreed to meet at #14 tee in a couple hours. I was there & looked for them, but couldn't hook up... so I sat in the bleachers at the 18th tee. This was a great seat because you could see the players play 15, 16, 17 & tee off at 18 from that spot. I waited there until Tiger played past, then went to see if I could find Jim & Molly again. I did find them along the 18th fairway... we went to the merchandise tent (where I proceeded to spend too much money).

I thought it was a great day!!! This was my day to walk around the course and see a little of everything. What a great experience. Plus, I got to see all the players I like, who didn't make the cut.

Saturday was a lazy day. I was pretty beat from the day before and Craig was doing a little more work on my car. That made it a great day to lay around... do some laundry... watch the Open on TV.

Sunday I woke up early... I have every intention of heading down to the course and having breakfast in the Trophy Club, but since the leaders were not teeing off until between 2PM & 3PM... I decided to play a round of golf. I went to Rolling Fields with some friends. I played really well. I shot an 89... the first time I broke 90 this year. I then went home & took a shower and headed to Janet's to park.

I got to the course about 12 noon. I headed straight over to the 18th green... I wanted to camp out at a good spot. My friend Micheal was working the grandstand on the side of the green. By the time I got there, the stands were full and there were 2 couples waiting in front of me for spots to open up... I told Micheal to find me a single... he comes down maybe 20 min. later and calls out... "I have a single". The guy at the gate lets me in. I had a seat in the second row!!! So we sat there... and watched every player come in on 18. You could get up to use the bathroom or get something at the concessions & not lose your seat... but if you were gone too long, you had to get to the back of the line (which wasn't moving).

So... we watched the leader board... we could see the players tee off on #10, all of # 11, tee off again on #12 & #15... all of #14 and of course.... them play in and putt on #18. It was amazing!!! The drama... the majesty...

As you may know... Angel Cabrera held off Tiger Woods and Jim Furyk to win by 1 stroke. Tiger could have forced an 18 hole playoff with a birdy on 18... but put his drive in the first cut of rough & left himself a really difficult putt... which he missed.

All in all... a fantastic, once in a lifetime experience.

The US Open Begins Today

2007-06-14T02:53:00.002-07:00

The US Open at Oakmont starts today. I will be going Friday & Sunday.

This should be fun.

200th Post- Weekend Report

2007-06-11T05:10:00.000-07:00

Well, this makes 200 posts for me. It begs the question: Can someone make 200 posts and not really say anything?

Anyway...

This weekend was pretty good.

I cuaght a nice buzz at happy hour on Friday.

Saturday, I played golf at Murrysville with my friend Marcia and her friend Teecy. I played pretty well, I had a 92, but hurt my wrist. I am really hitting the ball well off the tee & my long game is working... but now my iron play is letting me down. Funny how, for non-professionals, it is just so hard to put it all together. We went back to Marica's for a cook out after.

Yesterday, I got up early. I was making h0t sausage to take over to my Mom & Dad's place. I let it simmer in the crock pot all morning and into the afternoon. Then went for a visit. I have not seen my folks for a few weeks & was not in town for my B-Day last week, so I wanted to spend some time with them.

On the way home I stopped at the Creek for a couple beers.

This week will be really busy. I have what we call the "I-80 depositions" all week... plus this week is the US Open at Oakmont. I have tickets for Friday & Sunday, but the whole city is just going nuts over this... it's like the Superbowl of golf, right here in my back yard. Now, when you are watching them later this week, just remember, I played there last year... I made par on holes #6 and #11... (we won't talk about the rest).

Details About My Trip to San Antonio

2007-06-06T04:36:00.000-07:00

I left Pittsburgh about 8 AM. I had to change planes in Denver, then be on my way. I landed in SAT about 2:20PM. I picked up my rental car, then tried to drive over to my friend's new house (he bought it 2 months ago). The road construction near the airport is massive. I got so turned around & lost... it should have taken me about 10 min to get to his place, but instead, it took me about 1/2 an hour. Anyway... I got the nickle tour, changed clothes, then we headed to the golf course.

We played a course called the Quarry. It is built in an old stone quarry. You are playing golf around these massive sheer stone walls... pretty neat. The course was not in great shape, kinda burned out, but looked neat. I didn't start out playing real well, as we rushed to the tee, but I turned it around later. The heat was really getting to me, it was close to 100 and I am just not used to that.

After golf, which finished about 8:30... we went to a Mexican seafood restaurant. It was pretty good. I was beat after this and needed to sleep.

The next morning, we got up & got ready for some more golf. We played Cedar Creek. A nice muni course. It was not as visually attractive as the Quarry, but was in better shape. The heat still bothered me... but somewhat less than yesterday. We bet on this round. 1 beer for match play, 1 beer for stroke play & 1 beer for most fairways off the tee and greens in regulation (big gamblers that we are). I played pretty well & won all 3 beers.

After... we went back to Gary's place, got cleaned up, and went out. We stopped at a little hole in the wall kinda bar... just up the street, called Main Street. Then... we went to a strip club. We hung out there longer than we intended (imagine that?). They kept having drink specials... and we kept ordering them!!! LOL!!! Anyway... by the time we left there, we were pretty smashed and hadn't had dinner yet. So, we figured we better get closer to home. Back to Main Street we went. They had a nice crowd and a decent band. More beer... more shots... no food... it was getting ugly. Finally, Gary called to have a pizza delivered to the bar that we could take home. He was off BSing when I saw the kid approaching the bar. I ran out, paid for it, and put it in the car. When I went to get Gary... there was another round of shots & beers (just what I needed... not). We downed the shots... hid the beers in our pockets and got outta there. We got back home... that pizza was in serious jeopardy.

When I got up the next morning... I was feeling my age. I had a hangover that was crushing. We also had a tee time earlier than the day before... I was all Advil!!!.

So, we get to the course... all his golf league buddies are there. Gary is showing off the US Open 2007 Oakmont hat I brought him... generally being an assclown (hence the nick name). I played like crap... crushing hangover... oppressive heat... text messages from the girl I met the night before... it was not a good golfing effort. The wheels came off on number 6. This hole was a 540 yard par 5. A big one... I hook my tee shot out of bounds... so I am now hitting 3 off the tee. Got it out there... had a decent shot for 4... and was still look'n at about 185-190 to the green... with a pond guarding the front. I take out the 5 wood... and "plunk" right in the water (gasp!!!) So, I am 5 in, 6 out (of the water, for you non-golfers)... now hitting 7. Sure enough... right into a green side bunker. Up on the green in 8... then a 2 putt... A 10... a freak'n 10!!! (there goes any chance of a decent round). It went bad for almost the rest of the round. I got a couple pars near the end... but it was too late. I lost 3 beers that day.

We stopped for lunch on the way back... then I needed a nap. Got up... got cleaned up... then back the bars. Went to Charlie Browns, the local Steelers Bar (they are everywhere). Then hit another strip club. About midnight, I met the girl I met the night before & we went to breakfast and hung out till well after 5 AM. I had to be at the airport by 8:30 AM... not good.

I made it to the airport ok... returned the rental car. The flight was about 45 min late getting off the ground. I just made my connection in Washington Dulles airport. When I got back to Pittsburgh, I figured my bags would have never made it. I was happy to see my golf clubs come down the baggage claim, but my suitcase wasn't there. When I checked... they said it went to Providence (I hope it had a nice time...).

Anyway... that was it. Today (Wednesday) is the first day I am feeling normal.

WOW!!!

2007-06-04T08:48:00.000-07:00

I had a great time in San Antonio!!!

I golfed pretty well. And... get this... girls in TX think I'm hot!!! (who'd
a thunk it?) LOL!!!

The only bad thing was we were 45 min late getting off the ground in SAT. I
just made my connection Washington Dulles. When I landed in Pittsburgh last
night... my golf clubs made it, but my suitcase took a trip to Providence.

Heading Down to San Antonio Thursday...

2007-05-29T09:32:00.000-07:00

Well, I haven't been real good about blogging, as you will know.

It was really good weekend. I played golf on Saturday and Monday. I wasn't able to score well, but I sure was coming off the tee well. I finally did it... I went out and bought a new driver. I got the Cleveland 460 Launcher. It does just that. I have been hitting about 25o yards, pretty much straight with it. Of course, the rest of my game has gone to hell in a hand basket.... but the driver is working.

Anyway, back to the title of this post. Yep... my birthday present to me is a trip to San Antonio to golf & drink with my friend AssClown. We used to golf together all the time. Then he moved down there about 2 years ago. He came up last year & I kicked the crap outta him by 14 strokes... but he can play year round... so I likely will get my ass kicked this weekend.

I leave here Thursday morning & arrive about 1:30 PM. We are going to golf that afternoon, Friday & Saturday. I fly back Sunday. I expect there will be eating, drinking & possibly strip clubs to fill in the gaps...

BTW... 41 years old on Thursday May 31...

FINALLY, a nice weekend...

2007-04-23T04:45:00.000-07:00

This was the first weekend I was actually able to play some golf. (thank God)

Saturday:

I played Buffalo with Marcia & Teecy. Started out very rough, especially for that easy hole. I took an 8. It was just butt ugly. I was able to regroup, with a bogy, then a double, then 4 bogies in a row. But, then on #8, another big-old 8 (gasp!!!). I did manage to come in strong with a par though. I had Marcia by 1 stroke at the turn with a 50.

The back got better, despite taking a double on #10 (a par 4). I then went bogy, bogy, par, double. But, then I really hit my stride... I went par, par, par, bogy to finish out the side. A 44 for the back, taking Marcia by 7 overall.

The course was in really nice shape.

Sunday:

I played Pheasant Ridge with Dale and my cousin John. I was really trying to beat John. I wasn't playing too bad early. Bogy, double, par, double, outta the gate. Then I took a crushing 8 on #5, a 510 yard par 5. I hit a great drive & second shot, but when I was shooting for the green, I peeled it out of bounds to the right and had to take a drop. I was able to recover and even par that little bitch of a hole, #9, to come in with a 49. I had John by 2.

I improved on the back. I was pretty solid, but did double bogy 2 of the 3 par 5's. I picked up a stroke a hole for the first 3 to lead by 5 after 12, then John made his push. He got it back to even for the side (me still up by 2) on 15, but then I put him away. He went 7, 7, 7... (par 5, Par 3, and a par 4). I went par, bogy, par... I finished with a 46, winning by 10 strokes.

I really need to be more consistent by the end of May when I make my big trip to San Antonio to play a few rounds with my golfing arch-nemesis, AssClown.

2007-04-06T03:26:00.000-07:00

Rather than post about the last 3 months, I thought I would look forward and post about an upcoming event to which I am looking forward.

I have put together a fishing trip for the last weekend in April to Ocracoke Island NC.

I have done this before about half a dozen time, but not for about 3 years. What I like to do is leave late (about 10 PM) on a Wednesday night. Drive to Cape Hatteras. It’s about a 10 hour drive, so you get there with perfect timing to have breakfast at a place called Diamond Shoals. A great breakfast place. Then, take the ferry over to Ocracoke. Check in to the motel. Check with the dock master and/or the captain on the reserved charter. Then, it’s time to start drinking.

Now, since I like to play golf, I usually take the ferry back up to Hatteras and play golf. Others like to pier fish or surf fish… but either way, the drinking has commenced.

We should all be on the island by about dinner time on Thursday. Most likely wind up at Howard’s Pub [http://www.howardspub.com/]. A good party place. Pool tables, darts… plus you can walk back to the motel. We can party our asses off, just so we make it to the dock at 5 AM…

I have booked a fishing charter called the Drum Stick. The captain’s name is Dave Nagel. He’s a little rough around the edges, but a very good charter captain. We will go gulf stream deep sea fishing all day. We hope to catch yellow fin tuna, king mackerel, wahoo, dolphin (mahi-mahi, the fish, not flipper…). If they are not biting with us “pulling lines” (trolling), we will anchor over a shipwreck and drop lines for red snapper, grouper… but either way… we should get a shit-load of fish.

We will bring beer and sandwiches on the boat.

Now, I’ve never gotten sea sick. I used to spend lots of time on the water when I was younger, working a scuba dive charter in Florida. But, it has been a while, and I am not taking any chances on ruining my time, so I will take some sea-sick pills, just to be safe.

You get back to the dock about 5 PM. There is a guy that will filet your fish there for a modest price. We can then take some of the catch to a restaurant call Pony Island and they will cook it for you however you like it. (Cajun-blackened is my favorite) It’s not a bad deal, you bring the fish, they cook it, give you a veg., a potato and some hush puppies for about $8 per person. You will never eat fresher fish than that… ever!!!

Usually, people are a little pooped out after dinner. A day of hard drinking, followed by a day of hard fishing and more drinking… and we are not as young as we used to be, LOL!!! Probably hit the sack a little earlier this night. Then back on the dock at 5 AM on Saturday… do it all over again.

Get up Sunday morning, get some breakfast, then start the 10 hour drive home.

I am taking Monday off work, as a recovery day.

All in all, a pretty good time.

We should all have a ton of fish to bring home. Way too much for me to eat since I live alone. I have suggested we have a big fish-fry the following weekend, inviting a bunch of people to eat it all… make a big party out of it. Anyone not bring fish has to bring BEER!!! No definite plans yet.

Time To Snap Out Of My Blogger Funk

2007-03-26T11:46:00.000-07:00

Ok... it has been a while since I posted.

I have kept in touch with my friends via email & stuff... but, I was thinking it is time for a post.

Any suggestions????

SOMETHING

2007-01-04T12:23:00.000-08:00

there, I was told to post somthing...

HAHAHAHAHA!!!!

I'm Back!!!

2006-12-21T04:27:00.000-08:00

I got back from my trip to Florida late last night.

I have some good stories. This should make for some good blog fodder.

Have a merry Christmas one & all, if I am unable to blog before hand (but, I'll try).

Sorry Everybody...

2006-11-29T03:42:00.000-08:00

I have been in a funk lately.

Last week things were looking up, but now they are bad again, as of last night.

I'll try to blog a little more.

Hi Everybody!!!

2006-11-14T02:28:00.000-08:00

I was in Philly yesterday...

I'll try to do a "weekend update" later.

Weekend Report

2006-11-06T02:25:00.000-08:00

The weekend started out pretty good... then kinda went down hill.

After my arbitration Friday, went to the Carlton with Scott. Met his wife and her Paralegal. I pretty nice girl. Gave her a ride home, as she lives near me.

Saturday, I cleaned and did laundry in the morning. Then did a little food shopping... nothing too exciting. Michele had said earlier in the week she wanted to go out, I left a message, but never heard from her. Went out with some friends & had a few beers.

Sunday... chatted with my friend Stacy during the early football games, then watched the Steelers fumble their way through another losing game... (gasp!!!).

Well, that's about it.

Today, I'm gonna have to leave the office a little early. My friend (and one of my bosses) D's mother-in-law died over the weekend. There is a viewing from 2PM-4PM today. I will try to be there at 3PM.

The Weekend is here...

2006-11-03T01:44:00.000-08:00

Well, it looks like it will be a pretty boring weekend. I have no real plans at all. I have talked to a couple people, that were like... don't know, we'll talk... but that's about it. Might be for the best. My apartment is a mess & needs a good cleaning. It has been tough to get back in the swing of things since returning from my trip.

I have a fairly large mediation today, which as far as anyone is going to know, will take all day. After that, it's all good... prolly be online here and there...

Hope everyone has a good weekend.

The Pictures From That Disposable Camera Suck

2006-11-01T02:37:00.000-08:00

Details....

2006-10-31T01:03:00.000-08:00

Ok, some of you wanted details.

We landed in Vegas about 11:30 AM... I have never seen a taxi stand line at the airport that freak'n long before. We checked in at the Bellagio. I must say, that is the first or second nicest hotel I have ever been in... Anyway, I had to run over to Bally's for a 3 hour client meeting. (boring) Then went back to the Bellagio, stopping in this Club Prive' (or somethin like that). I so enjoy a $12 bottle of Miller Lite. Anyway, it was then time to register for the seminar and hit the first reception. This was nice, all top shelf & met some cool people. Then a bunch of us went to this Circus Sole' (MX knows it). It was kinda weird, like some funky cross between a circus act & some new age dance thingy. (I almost fell asleep) After the freak show, we went to dinner at one of the 8 restraunts in the hotel, this one was called FIX. After dinner, I stopped at the bar & met some of our fellow seminar attendees. Dale (my boss) went to bed, but I stayed out for a little while.

The next morning the seminar didn't start too early. Sat there listening to this dribble for a few hours... we cut out early and went over to the Forum Shops at Ceaser's Palace for lunch. We then hit a few more seminars... We hit on of the bars in the casino, then the reception when the seminar ended. This night, I decided to drink martinis... never a good thing. Played a few slots, and threw a couple bucks down on a black-jack table... We stopped at a couple of the resraunts, but everything had like a 2 hour wait & I was smashed, so I decided I would eat some room service & crash.

The next morning (Friday), hit the seminar again. We went over to the Aladdin (sp?) shops for lunch. Actually got the chance to talk on the phone with the lovely JENN, who was giving me the Keeneland update (remember, I was 3 hours behind). Anyway, I was a bit tired, so Dale went back to the seminars & I went upstairs for a nap. I joined him for the last one of the event. We then jumped in a cab to Mandalay Bay (sp?) to have dinner there. This was also a very nice place. Ate a great dinner & played some of the slots. Then, we jumped a cab to go to the comedy club in Harra's. Played some poker, just for the free drinks, while waiting for the show to be seated. The comedy show was good. Then we headed back to the Bellagio. Stopped in the bar for a "few" night capps...

The next morning, that 4 AM wake-up call came early... Then came home.

There... "some" details... there were a few "details" that were purposely left out, cuz as we all know, what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas!!!

I'm Home

2006-10-29T03:25:00.002-08:00

Well, I made it back from Las Vegas last night. It was an interesting trip. That city is clearly over the top. I went to some of the seminars. I definitely made the cocktail receptions. I was in 6 different casinos. Saw a couple shows. Gambled a little. Drank a lot. Spent WAY too much money.

I will post some details... but as we all know, what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas!!!

But, seriously... I did take some pictures with one of those disposable cameras, so hopefully I'll be able to post some pictures.

It was nice to sleep in my own bed though...

I Am Stupid...

2006-10-25T02:20:00.000-07:00

OK... it is 5:15 AM. Rather than packing last night, I went out & got drunk. So now, I have to be out the door in 45 min, and I am sitting here drinking coffee and blogging. A soon as I finish this cup, I will jump in the shower, rush through packing then zoom out to the airport.

Is it a wonder I always forget something?

If You Are Look'n For Me This Week...

2006-10-24T02:37:00.000-07:00

This is where I will be.

The Bellagio, Las Vegas.

I Have to be at the airport by 7AM Tomorrow.

2006-10-23T04:24:00.000-07:00

I tried to take a picture of the new glasses for Gab, but just couldn't seem to get it in focus... this one was the best...

Please read the post below, I just slapped this pic in here...

OK... You won't hear from me much of this week...

2006-10-23T02:25:00.000-07:00

Yes, this will be another light blog week. First, I quick weekend report. Saturday, I went to a birthday get-together for my cousin Lori. Then, I stopped and visited a friend that lives nearby. Sunday, I watched the football games at home while chatting with a friend from Cincinnati (AKA the enemy). We had some laughs, but the Steelers lost and the Bengals won. *tear* Then I zipped up the bar for 3 quick beers. Grabbed some fast food (I know, not real healthy) then headed home. Went to sleep early.

Now today, I have to get my time sheets in & get one file ready for W to review. I'm gonna have to pack for my trip tonight, as I won't have time tomorrow.

Tuesday, I will finish up some shit at the office. After work, I am going to the hockey game. I got the firm tickets to see the Penguins play the NJ Devils, as my friend is from NJ and likes them.

Then... all I have to do is be at the airport by 630AM for an 8:30 flight to Las Vegas. I will be back a little after 5PM on Saturday. I then have tickets to the Symphony for that night.

Sunday, my buddy Ass Clown will be in town from TX. We plan to play golf if the weather in nice.

I will try to check in whenever I can... but you all have a good week.

Saturday Song- Walking In Memphis

2006-10-21T08:06:00.000-07:00

Put on my blue suede shoes
And I boarded the plane
Touched down in the land of the Delta Blues
In the middle of the pouring rain
W.C. Handy -- won't you look down over me
Yeah I got a first class ticket
But I'm as blue as a boy can be

Then I'm walking in Memphis
Walking with my feet ten feet off of Beale
Walking in Memphis
But do I really feel the way I feel

Saw the ghost of Elvis
On Union Avenue
Followed him up to the gates of Graceland
Then I watched him walk right through
Now security they did not see him
They just hovered 'round his tomb
But there's a pretty little thing
Waiting for the King
Down in the Jungle Room

(Chorus)

They've got catfish on the table
They've got gospel in the air
And Reverend Green be glad to see you
When you haven't got a prayer
But boy you've got a prayer in Memphis

Now Muriel plays piano
Every Friday at the Hollywood
And they brought me down to see her
And they asked me if I would --
Do a little number
And I sang with all my might
And she said --
"Tell me are you a Christian child?"
And I said "Ma'am I am tonight"

(Chorus)

Put on my blue suede shoes
And I boarded the plane
Touched down in the land of the Delta Blues
In the middle of the pouring rain
Touched down in the land of the Delta Blues
In the middle of the pouring rain

2006-10-18T12:49:00.000-07:00

The "Meme" That Is Going Around...

2006-10-17T03:05:00.000-07:00

The phone rings. Who do you want it to be?
A certain pretty girl.

When shopping at the grocery store, do you return your cart?
Yes, at least to the nearest “cart area”

In a social setting, are you more of a talker or a listener?
I try to be both, but I do talk a lot.

Do you take compliments well?
I think so… but I am really not comfortable with it.

Are you an active person?
Sometimes… I tend to be less active in the winter. (No golf)

If abandoned alone in the wilderness, do you survive?
I think so, for a while at least.

Do you like to ride horses?
Yes, very much.

Did you ever go to camp as a kid?
Yes, I went to camp twice.

What was your favorite game as a kid?
Board game??? Risk.

A sexy person is pursuing you, but you know that he/she is married, would you?

Unlikely, but one never knows.

Are you judgmental?

Sometimes… but I try not to be.

Could you date someone with different religious beliefs than you?
Yes.

Do you like to pursue or be pursued?
A little bit of both.

Use three words to describe yourself
Generous, disorganized, unhappy.

If you had to choose, would you rather be deaf or blind?
Deaf.

Are you continuing your education?
Everyday… also, I am going to a “seminar” next week in Las Vegas… I should “learn” a few things. Hehe

Do you know how to shoot a gun?
Yes, and very well.

If your house was on fire, what would be the first thing you tried to save?
I have a lock box with important papers… other than that, I got nuthin…

How often do you read books?
Not as often as I’d like.

Do you think more about the past, present or future?
The present.

What is your favorite children's book?
Can’t think of one.

Have you kissed any of your MySpace friends?
Don’t do MySpace.

How tall are you?
5’11’’

Where is your ideal house located?
Somewhere warm.

Boxers, briefs, thongs, panties, or grannies?
Boxers.

Last person you talked to?
My friend Marcia.

Have you ever taken pictures in a photo booth?
Yes, but it has been a long time.

When was the last time you were at Olive Garden?
Can’t remember, but I have been there.

What are your keys on your key chain for?
Car, 2 for the apartment, mail box.

Where was the furthest place you traveled today?
Well, I have to drive to Beaver by 9:30AM.

Where is your current pain at?
I am pretty pain free right now.

Do you like mustard?
Very much.

Do you prefer to sleep or eat?
Sleep, but I generally do not sleep well.

Do you look like your mom or dad?
My Dad.

How long does it take you in the shower?
I’m in and out in about 8 Min.

Can you do a split?
Ah…. No.

What movie do you want to see right now?
I want to see that new WWII movie coming out soon.

Do you put lotion on your dog or cats?
No, I have no pets. But when I have, I never put lotion on them.

What did you do for New Year's?
When to a party at Marcia’s place.

Do you think "The Grudge" was scary?
Didn’t see it.

What was the cause of your last accident?
Well, that hill side ran out and bit my car, I swear.

How much money do you have on you right now?
None, I’m in my underwear. There is maybe $50 in my wallet.

What are you drinking?
Coffee… black.

Was your mom a cheerleader?
Nope.

What's the last letter of your middle name?
T
Who did you vote for on American Idol?
Didn’t vote cuz I never watched it.

How many hours of sleep do you get a night?
6-7

Do you like Carebears?

Not particularly.

What do you buy at the movies?
Ticket, pop-corn, drink.

Do you know how to play poker?
Yep.

Do you wear your seat belt?
No, generally.

What do you wear to sleep?
Depends.

Anything big ever happen in your hometown?
Yes… all kinds of things.

How many meals do you eat a day?
1 or 2… rarely 3.

Is your tongue pierced?
God NO.

Do you always read MySpace bulletins?
Never.

What's you favorite NFL team?
The Steelers.

Do you like funny or serious people better?
Funny, but people need to know when to be serious.

Ever been to Vegas?
Nope, but I’ll be there next Wednesday!!!

Did you eat a cookie today?
No, but it is early.

Do you use cuss words in other languages?
No.

Do you steal or pay for your music downloads?
Pay.

Do you hate chocolate?
I love chocolate.

What do you and your parents fight about the most?
We don’t fight.

Is anyone mad at or irritated with you right now?
Probably.

Do you open presents on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day? (apologies to those who don't celebrate Christmas)
We open 1 gift on Christmas Eve & the rest on Christmas day.

What's your favorite preparation for eggs?
Scrambled.

If you could have any job (assuming you have the skills) what would it be?

Roller-Coaster & Restaurant Critic.

Are you easy to get along with?
I think so, most of the time… but don’t piss me off.

What is your favorite time of day?
Morning.

Who was your best girlfriend/boyfriend?
Looking back, I would have to say either Linda or Viktoria.

Who do you hate?
Myself.

Would ever date your first love again?
No.

Do you have a girlfriend/boyfriend?
No… I’m trying to “date” but that is about it.

Current mood?
Fair… really can’t say at this point.

Weekend Report

2006-10-16T04:35:00.000-07:00

It was a good weekend.

Saturday, I went to a birthday party at the local bar I have been drinking at lately, Flinn's. I stayed a bit too long...

Sunday, I did a little food shopping. Then I basically laid around, watched football & roasted a chicken for my dinner.

The Steelers finally won a game, which was good. But, even thought I won the week, last week in my fantasy football league, my team did just horrible this week....

Once again, my blogging will be limited this week, but I am supposed to be able to pick up my new glasses after work today... I will post a picture.

Weekend Report

2006-10-09T04:27:00.000-07:00

It was a pretty good weekend, all things considered.

Friday, my meeting went great. Better than I could have hoped.

Saturday was a lazy day. Didn't do much at all.

Sunday, I played golf with M, then went to Flinn's. I took M home, then popped back to Flinn's for a couple more beers. Went home to watch the Steelers lose their third game in a row.

It will still be rather busy this week at work. My blog time will be limited. I will try to make the rounds, but things are still a little touchy at work now, so I have to watch myself.

Goodbye for now...

Hello Everybody

2006-10-06T04:02:00.000-07:00

Good morning.

Well, I am not going into the office today. I have one client flying in from Chicago and 3 others driving in from Cleveland. We are meeting to discuss a large litigation block in Cleveland. The schedule is 11AM at the club for the meeting, then lunch. After the 4 guys are golfing & the 2 girls are going to the mall. Should be a good day.

I have no real plans for the weekend. M wants to play golf on Saturday & Craig wants to play on Sunday, but nothing has been set in stone. We'll see.

Have a great weekend.

New frames... Thanks to my friends for helping.

2006-10-04T05:14:00.000-07:00

Weekend Report 9/29-10/1

2006-10-02T12:27:00.000-07:00

Well, it was a pretty good weekend.

Friday, the baseball game was good. The Pirates lost the game to the Reds, the company was fun & the fireworks were great. After a bunch of us met up at Flinn's and drank some more... being closer to home. I decided I wasn't going to use my tickets for Sunday's baseball game & the young couple that lives up-stairs from me was at the bar too, so I just gave the tickets to them.

Saturday, I played in the end-of-season golf outing at the club. It was really fun. We played an event that was 4 man teams, you take the best 2 scores from you team on any given hole (with handicap). My rather high handicap (that means I am not very good) came in rather useful to our team. We ended up taking 3rd place, winning a $45 credit in the pro-shop. All in all, it was a nice event. Breakfast, golf, then lunch & drinks.

After, Craig & I went to Flinn's and drank a while. My friend M showed up was well. Eventually, we went over to Craig's house. I felt bad because his wife is recovering from leg surgery, but she said she was just happy for the company. Plus, get this... Craig gave me a set of Bose 901 speakers he had sitting in his basement. For any that don't know, Bose 901s are the greatest speakers ever made. They cost about $1300.00 new for a pair. Now, he didn't give the Active Equalizer that you need to use them properly, and I wasn't asking after such a generous gift. (I ordered one from Bose today).

Then Sunday... I am up at 5 AM as usual. I did a couple loads of laundry & started putting my kitchen back together. The landlord has been remodeling all week. I really threw out a bunch of crap. Then M called & wanted to play golf with her sister. So, back to the club (I know I'll hear it from MX for all this club talk). I played really freak'n well. I was hitting out of the tee box the best I have all year... I couldn't sink a putt to save my ass, but the tee shots were working. Anyway, back to Flinn's for a few beers, then home.

That was about it.

I must say.... I was almost tempted to turn on the furnace last night, it was pretty chilly.

Florida in December

2006-09-29T05:19:00.000-07:00

Well, every year I take my parents to Florida in December to visit my beadbeat brother and so they can see their grand baby as their Christmas present. I go along, but... of course do not stay at my brother's place as my parents do.... it would be WAY too crowded. I book a room nearby, I need my space ya know?

So, here is where I will be staying...Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa (In the picture)

I will meet up with the family for a dinner or 2. But, the rest of the time will be my own.

What do ya think?

Not Much To Report

2006-09-28T04:53:00.000-07:00

Not much going on right now... just busy at work. I just got brought in to second chair a trial that starts in December. Pretrial statements are due in 2 weeks and I know little about the case except there is 1 dead guy & guy that is pretty messed up. I spent most of yesterday securing experts and reviewing documents. As I have another trial with the same pretrial deadlines, but going to trial 2 weeks sooner... I will be busier than a 1 leg'd man in an ass kicking contest.

I thought I'd discuss the weekend plans now, as I don't know if I will be able to blog much tomorrow.

Friday, after work, I am going to PNC Park for the Pirates game. Yep, it is another fireworks night & I just love fireworks.

Saturday, I am playing in a golf event at the Club with my buddy Craig. It looks like the weather will be ok, but maybe a bit on the chilly side. I am not sure of the schedule, I am trying to find out today. I am hoping that Craig can make it... His wife had some out-patient surgery yesterday (she is fine) so he may be needed at home. Michele sent me an email this week saying she might be around Saturday... but lord knows I ain't hold'n my breath there.

Sunday, Craig, M and M's sister ML had plans to play golf as well. It will be the same deal with Craig as Saturday... depends on how the wife is doing. The weather again looks like it will work. If there is no golf on the menu... might head back down to the ball park for the last baseball game of the season. It is a 1:00 PM game & the Steeler are not playing this weekend, so that might be fun.

If the weather turns ugly on Sunday, might go to a movie or sumpth'n??? Have anyone seen anything good that is out right now?

Anyway.... I hope everyone has a nice weekend.

MX: I Put This Up Just For You...

2006-09-27T09:08:00.000-07:00

These are the shoes I am wearing today.

Good Morning

2006-09-26T02:17:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone.

The weekend was pretty good. Friday was a golf outing for work. Saturday I went golfing with Craig & M. I played the best round I have had at the club since I joined. I had a 36 after 8 holes, but blew-up on number 9, taking an 8. Still, a 44 through 9 isn't bad for me. It took a little while to recover my composure... ended up with a 51 on the back. We then drank a while at the bar, then moved to Flinn's. Stayed there for a while.... maybe too long. Sunday, I had trouble getting moving. I did manage to make it to the store for some supplies, but that was about it. My friends were up at Flinn's watching the Steelers game... but I didn't make it. We were exchanging text messages as the game was going. I was also exchanging email smack talk with a long time blogger friend from Cincinnati. I had to take my lumps when the Steelers lost... but it was all in good fun.

I'll try to be around in blogland today, but things are still a little tense at work, so I can't make any promises... see ya!!!

Weekend Plans

2006-09-22T04:00:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone.

It has been just hell at work this week. One of the lawyers got fired and the rest of us have been walking on egg shells the rest of the week. Hence, my lack of blogging while at work. Best to be careful for a while. Then, on top of that, I had 2 arbitration hearings, Tuesday and yesterday.

Thank God this week is over. Yesterday was actually my Friday. All I have to do today is send one email & attend a marketing golf outing... so I started partying last night.

Tomorrow, I plan to golf... if the weather holds out.

Sunday, is a big Steelers game. Our rivals, the Bengals are in town. At this point, it looks like we are going to watch the game at a bar, then go to M's for dinner.

GO STEELERS!!!!

Sorry I've Been MIA

2006-09-20T01:35:00.000-07:00

Things are really crazy at work right now...

I'll be stopping around when I can.

Hopes Dashed Again & the Weekend

2006-09-15T05:31:00.000-07:00

Well, as usual, yesterday... I spoke too soon. I should have never said anything about the possible cheap mortgage for a house. Yesterday, around 5-ish... I had a meeting with the guy from the bank. They are backing out of the deal... Apparently they don't want referred a 40 million dollar deposit. So, now I gotta look for another bank. At the end of the day, I need to set this up, even if there is nothing in it for me.

Not like I was getting my hopes up, only to be dashed again or anything like that. Not like I scope'd out a little 2 bedroom brick ranch with a fire place or anything like that... right?

Anyway....

The weekend, the last official weekend of summer is upon us.

I have no specific plans at this time, but the weather looks like it will be nice, so I see some golfing in my future.

Have a great weekend everybody.

Hi There...

2006-09-14T07:03:00.000-07:00

Been busy this week.

I took off a half day yesterday & went to the "liquid lunch" baseball game over at PNC Park. It was lots-o-fun. I enjoy drinking beer, eating ball-park food & watching baseball in the afternoon when I should be working.

The event kinda carried over into the evening, but it was all in good fun. Plus I learned that there will be roving DUI patrols right in front of my apartment this Friday, so it will be an early night for me tomorrow.

Here is some news I've kinda been holding back... cuz I really won't know till the end of next month for sure... but I may have landed an new HUGE client... I mean FREAK'N HUGE. Could be one of those career client things. As an added bonus, I have a side deal in the works related to this overall deal, which, if I play my cards right, could get me a house. Yes, that's right, I said right... a house, despite my bad credit. It is amazing what a bank will do for you when you refer them a 40 Million dollar deposit. (We're talk'n like... no down payment, no points, and 3% loan)

Anyway... hope everyone is having a good day.

Five Years

2006-09-11T03:04:00.000-07:00

Pretty Unremarkable Weekend

2006-09-10T04:44:00.000-07:00

It's Sunday morning, and so far the weekend has been kinda blah.

Friday, I left the office about 2:30 PM. I met Craig & played 9 holes of golf. Then had a few drinks. We ended up at Flynn's. I met this young-to-me girl & starting talking. What was strange was, her boyfriend showed up and she commenced to touching me under the bar inappropriately. While I liked the attention, it made me feel awkward.

Yesterday (Saturday) was uneventful. I slept in. Did a few domestic things. Picked up my vacuum cleaner at the shop... put a new battery in my watch, then watched some collage football. That was about it.

Today, I am planning to play golf with M. I just called and made a tee time for 11:00 AM. Prolly have a few drinks after. That's about it.

I hope everyone had some more excitement than me. Let me know.

Steelers Win

2006-09-08T02:52:00.000-07:00

Even without Ben, the Steelers managed to win.

To make it even better, Heath Miller had an 87 yard touchdown catch, which got me points for my Fantasy team!!! YEA BABY!!!

The Steelers Season Starts Tonight

2006-09-07T05:05:00.000-07:00

Well, I was supposed to drive to Gettysburg for depositions today... but, the Steelers season kicks-off tonight. So you know what that means? Depo by phone!!! (yea baby!!!)

Oh, and by the way... I was bad last night. I cut out of work around 4PM-ish... flew out to the club & met C & R on the back 9 for a little golf. C & I play for a drink per hole. He had me down 4 drinks. Then I cut it to 1 by the time we were ready to play the last hole. I thought I could tie, but he hit a killer tee shot & took the hole. I had to buy 2 drinks. Well, then he proceeded to buy me 2 back... then it got ugly.

I hope you all feel better than I do right now!!!

Are You Ready For Some "Fantasy Football"???

2006-09-06T04:39:00.000-07:00

Yes... I know the title of this post will cause MX (and maybe others) to move right along... so be it.

Yesterday was the draft for the fantasy football league we have at my firm. I was never a fantasy football fan, but last year when a spot opened up in the league, I joined. Just to be a "joiner" if you know what I mean?

Well, my rookie year went pretty well... I finished second & won enough money to pay for my league dues ($175) and put a few bucks in my pocket. It came down to the late games on the last week... I was only 5 points behind W, who then pulled away. Most of the league members log on the web site & watch the "real time" scoring... which has a chat feature, so we can talk smack while the games are going on... It's actually a lot of fun. It makes me pay attention to games I would otherwise not care about.

So, anyway... we had out draft yesterday. I had the next-to-last pick, because of how I finished last year. Makes it tough. In our league, you draft 2 quarter-backs, 3 running-backs, 5 wide receivers, 2 tight ends, 2 kickers & 2 team defenses. You can only start 1 QB, 2 RB, 3 WR, 1 TE, 1 K & 1 D.

So without further comment, here is Team Knight 2006. In the starting Line up:

Manning, Eli QB NYG
Jordan, LaMont RB OAK
Williams, Cadillac RB TB
Burress, Plaxico WR NYG
Johnson, Keyshawn WR CAR
Smith, Rod WR DEN
Miller, Heath TE PIT
Reed, Jeff K PIT
Jaguars, DST JAC

On the bench I have:

McNair, Steve QB BAL
Bush, Reggie RB NO
Bennett, Drew WR TEN
Stokley, Brandon WR IND
Wiggins, Jermaine TE MIN
Tynes, Lawrence K KC
Falcons, DST ATL

Whether anyone cares or not... I will be posting updates on how the FFL season is going... enjoy!!!

The Long Weekend

2006-09-04T03:37:00.000-07:00

Well, the long weekend is almost over.

Basically, I have done what most of you would think.... golfing & drinking.

Nothing all that interesting to report. Today, I am going to try to golf early, then go to my cousin's place in the North Hills where we will have a cookout for my Mom's Birthday. It should be pretty calm. Other than that, I still need to clean out my kitchen so that the workers can get in there to start working on it.

It looks pretty slow in blogland, but I still would like to wish everyone a happy Labor Day... be safe & have fun... (KJ wear your white pants today... it's the last day, LOL)

Question of the Day

2006-09-01T01:07:00.000-07:00

Ok... the Question of Day:

As this big green blob on the radar approaches from the south (see, not all things that come from the south are good... hehe) who will get more rain this weekend.... Me or MX???

If the Allegheny Mountains push the blob further east... she gets it... if the bulk of the rain gets pushed farther west... I get it ...

Place your votes now.

This big green blob on the radar will effect the weekend plan thing... The only thing on the agenda so far is that sometime over the weekend, I have to empty out the kitchen & bathroom... they are both being re-done next week. Also, Monday... I have to do the family thing, we are doing my Mom's Birthday cookout.

I hope everyone has a great long weekend.

*Edit: Here is some good news... I just wrote out the FINAL payment on my car... that felt good.

Sorry

2006-08-31T02:52:00.000-07:00

I'm sorry for being such a boring blogger lately, not that I was all that interesting to start with. I really seem to have hit a blog wall. Maybe it is reflective of my life at the moment. Also, I have been really busy at work.

I do thank all my blog friends for still stopping by... it makes me feel good.

2006-08-30T02:39:00.000-07:00

Pup-Night at the ball park last night...

Good Morning Blog World.

2006-08-29T04:19:00.000-07:00

Just another day here in the Dreary City, and a dreary city it is....

Why does a little rain turn my drive on the Parkway East from 20 min to 40 min??? It wasn't raining that bad... no accidents... it makes no sense to me.

Anyway, another day... should be busy & nothing interesting to report.

Say "hi" if you stop by...

New Client Monday

2006-08-28T04:57:00.000-07:00

Yes, today is new client Monday.

I landed a new client on Friday and he is coming in to sign all the papers & pay my retainer. Whoo Hoo!!!

So, I might be busy most of the day... if I can't do much blogg'n, please forgive me.

Talk to you all soon.

Have a great day.

Good Sunday Morning

2006-08-27T02:50:00.000-07:00

It is gonna be a golf day today. Maybe anyway...

I just looked at the radar, there is a big blob of green headed this way. But I'm gonna give it a shot.

Weekend Plans

2006-08-25T02:12:00.000-07:00

It's time for the weekend again. There are a few things on the table...

Tonight, is the baseball game. Well, not just a baseball game, but this work related marketing event tailgate party. They have rented an entire parking lot and brought in a caterer. Last year it was pretty laid-out. Also, it is a fireworks night... but not a regular fireworks night, but what they call "SkyBlast"... they shoot fireworks off barges in the river, but also off bridges & the tops of buildings... it's better than the Fourth of July. Should be kinda neat. Also, there is a Steelers pre-season game, but I don't know if I'll get to see any of it.

As for Saturday & Sunday, I have a standing invitation to golf with C at the club. Plus, I really have to be a little domestic, at some point. I, once again, have a sink full of dirty dishes & a dishwasher full of clean ones... the vacuum cleaner needs to be run... stuff like that. Lastly, it has been a while since I drove up to see my Mom & Dad... so I will probably do that at some point as well.

That's about it.

I hope everyone has a great weekend.

I Got Nuth'n Today

2006-08-24T04:11:00.000-07:00

And a bunch of work to do...

Hope everyone is have's a GREAT day.

Out Of The Office Today

2006-08-23T00:00:00.000-07:00

Well, most of today anyway.

I'm picking up an expert at the airport & taking him to part inspection. It should take up most of my day.

Have a nice day.

Weekend Report

2006-08-20T16:27:00.000-07:00

Friday went pretty well. I did depositions in Ebensberg. After, I stopped at the club & played nine holes with C. I was not coming out the tee box well. He gave me a few tips... then I was booming it. After, I met M & Bobby B at Flynn's. Michele did show up as well. I had plans to take Bobby & M out to dinner for Bobby's birthday. We went to the Wooden Nickel in Monroeville. Dinner was great. When we went back to Flynn's to pick up our cars, Michele was still there. I talked to her for a bit, then got outta there.

On Saturday, my date with Michele went pretty well. We met at Station Square, an old train station the has been converted into shops, bars & restaurants. We had dinner at the Grand Concourse. It is a pretty nice place. The conversation went well. We then took the river boat over the stadium for the Steeler game. We walked around the stadium a little while, then went to our seats. We watched the game till the start of the 4th quarter, then went back to the boat. Then called it a night. I think it was a pretty good date, but she's kinda hard to read. She was, at times, affectionate... and others, a little more stand-offish. She has that NJ/NYC, northeastern kinda attitude, if ya know what I mean? I think she was warming up... but still want to keep her distance... So, I still wanted a couple beers, so I stopped at JV's. The place was empty. I had 2 and was going to be on my way, when John came in. He "made" me stay for 3 more... which I didn't need.

When I woke up this morning it was little rough. I was meeting D from work for golf at the club. I woke with about 20 min to get out the door. I was rushing around, with a killer hangover... my stomach was doing back-flips... I was trying to golf, when I was thinking about was going over to the bushes to throw-up. Doesn't make for a good round. I couldn't hit the ball. By the end, I had sweat out most of the poison, and started playing a little better, but it was too late. And to make matters worse, we were in the men's grill drinking bloody mary's by 10 AM... after 2 I felt much better... after 4 I was smashed... again.

Not good.

I came home and took a nap... ok, maybe I slept had for 6-7 hours... that's a nap, isn't it?

Anyway... It's now almost 8 PM... and I'm going back to bed.

I hope everyone had a great weekend.

Not a Good Day....

2006-08-20T14:54:00.000-07:00

I'll update you later....

Good Morning Bloggers

2006-08-17T02:12:00.000-07:00

Here is prolly the closest I'll ever do to a HNT.

Wow... I think I lost my voice from all the "shouting" yesterday.

I want to give everyone the "heads up" that I won't be around tomorrow. I have depositions all day out of town.

The only plans I have for the weekend, so far, is to take Michele to the Steelers game Saturday night. I've been trying to get her to go out with me for a while now, so I hope everything goes well. I'm not real pleased that J's wife is not going (J has the other 2 seats), but I'm gonna work on it today.

I'm sure I'll get some golf in sometime, but haven't made any specific plans yet. Other than the basic laundry & housekeeping... that's about it.

PS: I added a pic of the bus accident I posted about Tuesday.

ALL CAPS ALL DAY

2006-08-16T04:28:00.000-07:00

IN HONOR OF THE LOVELY JENN'S BIRTHDAY, I WILL BE TYPING IN ALL CAPS ALL DAY.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU JENN!!!

This will be a bad morning...

2006-08-15T02:37:00.000-07:00

I just put the news on...

There is a bad bus accident on the Parkway East. That is my route into Downtown. (shit!!!)

I have some alternate routes, but don't like them. I better get my butt in the shower, it is going to be a long commute this morning.

Weekend Report

2006-08-14T01:58:00.000-07:00

Good morning bloggers.

The weekend was pretty good.

Played golf with M at Churchill Saturday. I didn't play real well. New course and all... but the weather was beautiful and the course was beautiful, so it was a good day. After, we drank in the Grill with C & his wife. They are pretty cool, but I'm still not sure how to take them. We watched the beginning of the Steelers game there. After a bit, we went up to Flynn's... to see if Bobby B was there. He wasn't, but Michele was. Said said she didn't call me to go out cuz her plane got in late from St. Louis... I was like "yea... whatever." Anyway, we hung out there a while... then C called and said to come back to the club for the Jazz show on the Patio. I thought: what the hell, I'm paying for the club, might as well use it? The music was very good, but the crowd leaved a lot to be desired. There was a lot of what I will call "country clubbers" there... I will do a post about these people later. So, we hung out there, then stopped at the JV for one last beer.

Sunday, played golf at the club again. I played much better this time. I'm starting to learn the course. We had the place to ourselves. Never had a group in front or behind us. It was great... played fast & played better. Stopped at Flynn's and had a few beers, then called it a day.

I hope everyone else had fun this weekend too.

Good Morning Saturday Bloggers

2006-08-12T04:50:00.000-07:00

Not too many people blog on Saturdays... but here I sit.

Yesterday was fun. The weather was perfect for golf. Our team didn't do too well. It was a scramble. For any non-golfers still reading (MX?) that is where everyone from the team hits, and you take the best shot and everybody plays from there. It is fun cuz there is less pressure. Anyway, our team was 1 over par. Not too good for a scramble. The winning team was 8 under par. we missed makable birdy putts on the first 3 holes. We ended up even at the turn. Came out on the back playing just awful. Thank God Deb carried us for 3 holes. I made an adjustment on my right hand grip and started ripping the ball, it felt good.

After, we stayed for the cookout & prizes. I got a new golf umbrella. I skipped the firm picnic & just went to the bar. Stopped at Flynn's for a few, then hit the JV. I had a pretty good buzz & came home. When I jumped on blogger, I was pretty drunk. It is hard to type when you're drunk.

Today should be fun. I'm gonna call M for golf in a little bit. I am going to take her to Club I just joined. I wanna get there about 10:30ish... I will call C, the guy who talked me into joining, see if he wants to join us.

There is the first pre-season game for the Steelers at 3 PM. We should have finished the round by then. Prolly have a couple beers in the Mixed Grill. This club has a Men's Grill & a Mixed Grill. See what the crowd is like, ya know? After, likely hit Flynn's.

No plans for tomorrow, but we'll see...

Have a great Saturday.

Happy Friday

2006-08-11T03:34:00.000-07:00

Good morning everyone.

It is gonna be a beautiful Friday. We will have a clear day, with a high temp of 79 degrees. Perfect golf weather.

I am meeting my CPCU Golf Outing teammates at Dick's Diner at 8AM. First tee time is 9 AM. We should finish golfing about 3 PM, or so. Then, a cookout & prizes. Last year, our team actually won this event. I like playing in this event cuz it is only about 15 min from my apartment.

I may meet M at Friday's for happy hour after... depends on how much I drink at the outing.

As for Saturday, I want to take M to play golf at the Club. We are going to play sometime after 11 AM, but it is not clear yet. There is a jazz show at 7 PM, so we may stay for that.

I would like to hear from Michele sometime over the weekend. The ball is basically in her court right now, if I don't hear from her, it will say a lot about where she stands.

Well, time to jump in the shower...

Have great day and a better weekend!!!!

Good Morning

2006-08-10T03:19:00.000-07:00

Well, today is gonna be like my Friday.

Yep, that's right... not go'n into the office tomorrow. I am playin' in the CPCU Golf Outing. I like playing in this outing. It is about 15 min from my place. I can actually sleep in (for me). It is a smaller outing. However, it is the same day as the firm picnic. I will probably not attend the picnic. It is held on the other side of town. This outing will run till about 4 or 5. I am not going to drive through downtown, in the teeth of rush hour, after a few beers... not a good idea.

Noth'n Really To Post About

2006-08-08T04:04:00.000-07:00

Yep, that's right. I got noth'n really interesting to post about. I think I may be in a blog lull... My posts are not all that interesting anyway, so you are not missing much.

The only thing I have on my mind right now is that I am joining a country club. As most of you know, I like to golf a bit. This club is very close to home and the course is pretty nice. They are having some "late season" specials, so the price is pretty good. I will be able to play unlimited golf. The down side of that is I will be playing the same course all the time. They also have social events, which might be some fun, depending on how the crowd is. I can always bring my own friends too. Plus, there is the swimming pool, tennis courts, weight room, sauna... all that kind of stuff.

We'll see.

Ok, so I live in a small 1 bedroom apartment, and belong to a country club. I'm weird, but I'd rather spend my money doing things rather than having things. Does that make sense?

Good Monday Morning

2006-08-07T04:23:00.000-07:00

Is there really such a thing?

Yesterday was fun. I played golf at Churchill Valley Country Club. The course was nice, but I didn't play all that well. I think I might join, they are running some pretty good deals right now.

After, I went to Flynn's... Michele was there. Her ex-boyfriend was there too. It was interesting. Not sure what to make of her. We'll see.

Have a goog day everyone!!!

My do-nuth’n Saturday

2006-08-06T03:18:00.000-07:00

My do-nuth’n Saturday turned out pretty well.

It started out pretty slow. I did couple loads of laundry. Yes, now I have plenty-o-socks clean for like the next 3 weeks. I even washed my sheets.

I went to the store and bought some supplies.

When I can back, I made a tuna casserole for dinner later. Shrimp salad for lunch. And, lastly, a Devils Food cake mix. I just love that with Cool Whip on top.

My friend Bobby B called me to meet him at Flynn’s for a couple beers around 4PM. The usual crowd was there. Gary & his wife M, who works with the girl Michele I am trying to “date” and a few others. (And, yes... M thinks I am charming, no matter what MX says on the subject!!!) She was giving me some more inside scoop on Michele.

Later, these 3 regulars came in, just back from golfing. We BS’d about golf a while & before you know it, I was invited to play today at Craig’s country club, Churchill Valley, a place I have always wanted to play. I have to be there today at 10AM. Pretty cool…

So, all-in-all, it worked out good.

*GOLF EDIT*.... DZ... if you're out there, I'd like your thoughts. First, in the past, I never really hit the long irons well. 2 years ago, I switched to a Taylor Made #3 Rescue club, for my 3 iron. I hit it pretty well, but tend to swing a little too hard for it. Well, this year, I have been striking my irons pretty darn well, so I am thinking of putting the 3 iron back in the bag. What do you think?

Have a good Sunday.

Weekend Plans

2006-08-04T02:41:00.000-07:00

Noth'n, nada, zip, zilch, zero...

Hello

2006-08-03T01:36:00.000-07:00

Another day with not really much to report.

I may have to run up to New Castle this afternoon, still not quite sure... I'll find out around 9ish... I wouldn't mind a day out of the office.

There is always my Thursday afternoon Defense Group conference call. There was nothing really on the agenda that I care about, but it kills an hour or 2... good solid billing.

I need to find a 4th for the CPCU Golf Outing on the 11th.

I will finish a Complaint... A DEC Action... I don't want to write it, cuz I don't think it's being done right, but I gotta do what I'm told.

I spoke to Michele last night. We discussed a dinner date, but have not set a specific day yet. We'll see if she follows through.

I guess I should plan my golf for the weekend... not really sure with whom or where yet...

Have a good day everyone.

Socks

2006-08-02T03:43:00.000-07:00

OK, I really have nothing to blog about today & a bunch of work to do... So I will just pose a question to the females of blogland.

Now, this morning, I put on my last clean pair of black dress socks. So, as I see it, I have 3 choices:

1. Do a load of laundry when I get home;

2. Wear the navy blue ones & hope no one notices (navy pants might help with that, ya think?); or

3. Buy more.

I am leaning towards the "buy more" option... it's not like the go bad or anything... right?

Another Killer Hot Day

2006-08-01T02:15:00.000-07:00

I really try not to complain about the heat, because I am an avid complainer about the cold. I don't want to be a hypocrite. I don't want to be a person that is only happy when it is 74 and sunny.

When the heat gets oppressive, I just think... I have never had to scrape heat off my windshield. I have never wrecked my car because it slid across a hot road.

Hi There Blogland

2006-07-31T02:48:00.000-07:00

I have to get into work early today, so just a few brief notes:

I may have to bail out of work early to go to a State Farm golf outing, tee time is 1 PM. W told me he might not go & to bring my stuff, just in case.

W did not do an important deposition summary back in March. Now the carrier wants it. I took the transcript home over the weekend & read it twice. I will dictate the summary first thing this morning. He didn't even say thanks.

The car is running good. Still a little "hot" though... need to keep an eye on it.

I drank with Gary B & his wife yesterday. Got some good news.

It is gonna be freak'n hot today. There are thunder storms out there right now.

*EDIT* One more thing... did any of you ever cook & eat king crab legs, while drunk, then wake the next morning to find you tore-up your hands on the "spikey things"... and find little bits of shell & crab meat all over the carpet??? No reason, just asking.

I'll be checking in with everybody later... OH.... and HAPPY BIRTHDAY to PK!!!!

Goog Morning

2006-07-30T02:33:00.000-07:00

It's early Sunday, I'm having my coffee and getting ready to jump in the shower. I'm leaving for the golf course within the hour. It will be just me and D, from work.

Yesterday was pretty uneventful. Basically, didn't do anything.

I'm boring.

Are You Ready For Some Football???

2006-07-29T03:21:00.000-07:00

On The Road Again...

2006-07-28T01:49:00.000-07:00

Weekend Plans...

Well, since I was up in the air over the car situation... I didn't really make any plans for the weekend. I picked up the car yesterday, and it seemed fine, but I didn't drive it very far.

M and her family have rented a house at Dewey (sp?) Beach in Delaware for all of next week. I am welcome to head down there (or over there, as the case may be). But, that is about a 6 hour drive & I can't miss work on Monday, so I'd have to drive back Sunday. The up side... A weekend of partying at the beach with my friends. The down side, 12 out of 48 hours in the car, the car that let me down for the last week. Makes me nervous to make such a long trip till I'm sure everything is ok.

Also, if Bobby B is not working, he is always up for fishing.

As for Sunday, I know D & GW have an early tee time somewhere... I can always join them.

So... here is the plan...

I'm gonna go to work today. See how the car runs on the parkway. After work, I will likely go to happy hour. I always make better decisions with a few beers in me (HA!!!) If the car is running good... and I get a bug... I might just throw a bag in the car, dive to the beach throughout the night, party my ass off all day Saturday. Then recover on the drive back Sunday. I will decide after happy hour. If not the beach, I will call Bobby & see what he's up to. There are a few other people I can call for a last minute golf match. There is always cleaning the apartment, laundry... visting the parents... stuff like that. Then Sunday, do the golf with D & GW.

I'll just play it by ear. See how the car is running... how I feel after happy hour... then make the call...

Oh, I almost forgot... Steelers training camp opens today... so you know what that means MX, not only will there be golf posts, but football posts as well.

I hope everyone has a nice weekend.

Good Morning Blogland

2006-07-27T04:19:00.000-07:00

Life is now returning to normal.

My car will be ready after work. I can leave the rental at the dealer, they will pick it up there.

I have a meeting at 10AM, then my usual Thursday Defense Group conference call at 3 PM.

I need a beer already.

Working From Home Today

2006-07-26T07:31:00.000-07:00

Well, the "garage mechanic" I had working on my car could not fix the problem. He said I should take it to the dealer, before spending anymore money.

The car would not even make it up the one hill, so I had to try another route. This time I made it. Dropped the car off at the dealer and walked home.

I called Enterprise, to "come pick me up", but at this suburban location, they were out of cars. I should try back around noon.

Ok...

2006-07-25T09:12:00.000-07:00

Work sucks... (I hate computers sometimes...)

My car sucks... (I hate my car right now...)

My love life sucks... (I hate that I can't find a good woman...)

My apartment sucks... (I spend more on golf'n & drink'n than the roof over my head...)

But...

Every once in a while, something happens that makes your frigg'n day...

October 25, 26 & 27... The Bellagio, Las Vegas...

On the firm dime... Whoo Hoo!!!!

The Car Is Still Sick

2006-07-25T02:40:00.000-07:00

Well, the car is still in the shop again today.

Yesterday, we tried some cheaper things... Cleaned the EGR Valve, spark plugs & wires, fuel filter. No luck. Its still not running right.

Today, we will start looking at some "bigger ticket" items... The catalytic converter and the fuel pump... wish me luck. If I can get outta there under a grand I will feel fortunate.

Sunday...

2006-07-24T01:29:00.000-07:00

Another day-o-golf.

I got up WAY early to play golf. We had a tee time of 6:30. I played with 3 guys from work (D, a partner, M, the admin, GW, the asshole fellow associate). We were joined by a client. It was almost dark & foggy went we started, but it burned off in a little while. You can't go out as a 5-some, so we did 3 & 2. We then joined up about 4 holes in. We played pretty fast & didn't hold people up.

I was really playing inconsistently. I pared 5 holes. (all 4 par-3's & 1 par 4) I was really struggling off the tee. Trust me, a 600 yard par 5 plays very long when you pop-up your tee shot!!! I hit 48-51 for a 99. My short game kept it from being worse. (I just love my lob wedge!!!)

We finished and I was heading home by 10:30. Got home & watched the British Open. ) Tiger is definitely BACK.

I had to drop my car off at the shop. It is really running bad. I'm not sure what is wrong. Funny, it started just as the girl upstairs got kicked out... I hope she didn't put sugar in my gas tank or anything like that. I just hope whatever is wrong, it costs me less than a grand. The stupid car is paid off in 2 more payments. I was hope'n to go about a year without a car payment. I wanted to put that money away for a down-payment on another one.

After, I met M for a couple beers. I had plans to do some other stuff, but just lacked the energy. Went to bed early.

A Fun Round of Golf

2006-07-23T00:40:00.000-07:00

I had a really fun round of golf yesterday.

M & I were going to play for a beer a Murrysville Golf Course yesterday. She can usually beat me, when she plays from the Red Tees (the ladies tees) and I play from the White Tees (the men's regular tees). Generally, the reds are 1000 yards to 1500 yards shorter. From the same tees we are a pretty good match. So, we were gonna flip a coin to decide where to play from. (I am secure enough in my masculinity to play a "red tee challenge"... at the end of the day, you still need to hit your shots) Well, J, from my office, joined us at the last minute... so him & I played the whites, and M played the reds.

M came outta the gate well... par-par... I hit, bogy-bogy... I'm 2 down. Then, she stated blowing up, and a stayed steady with bogies... as a matter of fact, I had 8 straight bogies... then pared #9. I had a 44 on the front, and made the turn with a 2 stroke lead. J bailed out at the turn, he wasn't playing so well.

The back 9 didn't start out so well, I had 2 double bogies right off. I managed to come back with a par, the started a string of bogies again... snapped up another par later on... finished the back with a 46... 90 overall. Shoulda broke 90 for the 1st time this summer, but it was good enough to beat M by 6 strokes, even with her advantage of playing the shorter tees. (Boo YA!!!)

After, we went to Fylnn's so she could buy me my victory beer. While there I met a very pretty young (for me) lady, Michele... (that's how she spells it... I know that cuz she wrote it down for me... along with her phone number... Boo YA!!!) [Dzer, none of the girls will have read this far, HA!!!]

Thanks...

2006-07-22T04:30:00.000-07:00

I just want to send my thanks out to all the people in my apartment building with who I share laundry facilities... thanks for sharing your lint with me.

There is nothing I enjoy more than, when putting my clothes in the dryer, cleaning out the lint you've left behind... thanks for sharing.

Weekend Plans

2006-07-21T02:55:00.000-07:00

This weekend should be pretty calm. At least the heatwave has broken.

I have tee times to play golf both Saturday & Sunday. The time is very early on Sunday, 6:30, so there will be no late night drinking the night before, which is probably a good thing.

I am a little behind on my timesheets for this month, so I am going to email them to myself at home & get them caught-up over the weekend.

I have told T that I won't be seeing her anymore & Donna is WAY out of the picture, so I will be available for some new experiences, should anything present itself.

That is basically about it.

I hope everyone has a nice weekend.

I Played tag Too...

2006-07-19T05:23:00.000-07:00

Have you ever.....

Gotten stuck in an elevator? Well, never "stuck", but have shut them off on purpose...

Egged a person? Only during that "egg toss game" at a picnic, does that count?

Stalked someone to find out where they work or live? If by "stalked" you mean follow them, then no. But I have used certain resources to find people.

Spent an entire day in nothing but your underwear? Yes.

Read some friends mail or other personal papers without them knowing? No.

Gone skinny dipping? Yes.

Been in a fist or cat fight? Yes.

Lasts....
Time you tripped? Can't remember...

Time you cleaned up the base of your toilet? Last weekend.

Gum you had? Bazzoka.

Pair of socks? Black dress socks.

Beverage you had? Coffee

Spur of the moment decision you made? Bought a pair of shoes.

Movie you watched? Batman, that newish one...

What would you.....

Say if your best friend told you they love you. ? (male or female) I love you too. (Friends can say that)

Right now.....

What are you wearing? Brown dress pants, a tan short sleeve shirt.

What are you thinking? I should be getting some work done.

What are you listening to? ESPN Radio

What would you like to be listening to? A particular voice.

Are you annoyed by the length of this survey? Nope.

Are you tired? A little.

How many people in the room? One, if I count myself.

Any cuts or bruises on your body? No.

Are there any animals in the room? No.

Are you eating anything? No.

Mondays Are Caddy Day

2006-07-18T02:54:00.000-07:00

My friend Sal caddies at a local country club on the weekends for extra cash. This is the same club I worked at as a kid, but didn't play golf at the time. I have always wanted to play this course now, but it is privet, and I could never get on.

Last night, Sal took me to play there after work. We started on the back 9. I came out of the gate par-bogey. I had a blow-up hole, then recovered, I hit a putt from the fringe on a par 5 for birdie. I struggled for a couple holes... then ended with another putt from the fringe for par. We only got in 13 holes before it got too dark.

I had a good time playing a nice privet course that I have always wanted to play... it was even FREE!!!

Women

2006-07-16T06:34:00.000-07:00

Women…

Yesterday, I had a long conversation with myself on the subject of women & the current state of my dealings with them.

I have always been, at least, moderately successful when it came to dealing with women. (depending on how one measures "success")

In high school, I dated older girls that were out of school or in college. After high school, in the years before I returned to school, I always dated the hottest girls. Older, younger, models, engaged, married, it didn’t matter to me. When I returned to school, I dated a lot of younger girls. I had a "thing" for foreign girls. Probably my 2 longest relationships were with foreign girls, one from Hungary the other from the Philippines. While in law school, I dated a beautiful girl, who after we broke up, began working as a stripper. Then a local girl, once again beautiful, who was 10 years my junior (with an absolutely great all natural rack). After law school, my success rate dropped precipitously. I'm not sure completely why, but I think it is because I was no longer looking for just a good time, but felt it was time for something more.

As I sit and contemplate my current state, I find myself asking, "What the hell happened to me?"; "What happened to my standards?"

I am still obsessed with Donna. I am fooling around with T. In my younger days, I would have barely given these 2 the time of day.

Now, I am making a fool of myself trying to get Donna back. I would have never done such a thing. And, T, she just isn'’t my type. She is filling a gap & that's it. I know it makes me a bad person, but when I'm with her, I find myself thinking about how to break it off with her. Is that fair to her? No.

All this makes my think of a song lyric… ...“the more I know, the less I understand...” whether it be about women, generally, or about myself.

Maybe, it is a matter of my current desperation for a more meaningful relationship. I think women can smell desperation on a man like a dog smells fear. Now, despite the diminution of my standards in the "looks" department, when I find someone I actually like, I come on too strong. Drives them away. When I really don't care whether or not I ever see them again, they will do whatever I ask, literally and figuratively.

I just don't know what to do...… my head tells me to forget about Donna... move on... she wasn't worth it anyway... then, I feel lonely & miss her kiss, her touch, her smile... and I call, send an email, a text message... knowing better, but I can't seem to stop myself.

Then when I get no reaction, or a reaction I don't like... I contact T. She makes me feel attractive, stimulating... It helps fill the emptiness left from the rejection, but I know it's not going anywhere.

I just don't know what I'm going to do... I don't want to be a bother to Donna & I don't want to just lead T on... I should probably just try to forget about both of them and start fresh.

It Was Great...

2006-07-15T02:39:00.000-07:00

OK, I shot 112... But it was Oakmont.

This was like no golfing experience I have ever had. I normally golf at cheap public courses... for the most part. You pull your car in the parking lot, looking for a strategic spot where it won't get hit by any stray golf balls, change your shoes in the parking lot... stuff like that.

Not at Oakmont.

We pull into the car port... a valet takes the car, golf bags, shoes & the bag with the clothes for changing... directs us to the Men's Grill, where Mr. M is waiting. Lunch has already been ordered. We eat, then off to the locker room.

We are assigned a locker. There is a metal plaque above my locker indicating this one was used by Ernie Els in 1994 when he won the US Open, so I guess it is good enough for me. While changing, they have attendants that are asking if you want sunscreen, baby power, new soft-spikes, beverages (there is a full bar in the locker-room).

We stop in the Pro Shop, then head over towards the 1st tee. We are assigned 4 caddies & have 2 carts. We ride in the carts while a caddy stands on the back, handing us our clubs, cleaning them after we hit, telling us the yardage... the other 2 are walking 150 to 200 yards ahead, marking our balls as we hit. That is a fore-caddy, so I'm told. With "US Open ready ruff" it can be very difficult to find your ball, let alone hit it... so these guys really help. (not that I was ever in the deep rough or anything... HA!!!) They will place a little flag by your ball then move up again. On the carts, they had a little cooler... not for beer, but it was filled with ice and little chilled and lemoned towels, to cool off with. (gosh!!!)

Now, for the game. I was very nervous starting out. I have never golfed using a caddy before. I have never played a course even in the same league before. I was playing with the Sr. Partner & a client. Standing in view of the patio of the club house. The first hole is the No. 1 handicap hole (the hardest hole on the golf course). I took a fairway wood & put it about 220, just down the left rough. Outta the gate... I take a double bogy & move on.

It probably took me 3 or 4 holes to realize that it is just another golf course. A freak'n hard ass golf course, but just a course none-the-less. The fairways look like the greens of most courses I play. And the greens... I have never putted on greens like these before. Undulating, hard to read & slicker than snot... I was in the famous "Church Pews" (bunkers in picture above) on number 3, but managed to "punch out." The rough was so thick there was no way for a player like me to really advance the ball very much, you just had to take a club with enough loft to get it outta there and hopefully back into the fairway.

I had one par on the front 9 & one on the back. On the bad side, I had a snowman (an 8) on the front & a 9 on the back... but for the most part, I was taking double bogy. Not too shabby, considering...

After the round, we return to the locker room for a shower. Even the showers in this place were great. They had these huge shower heads and temperture controls that were amazing... if you set it just right, it felt like you were in a cool rain storm... very refreshing. They have this one area set up, just to powder your feet...

So, I must say, it was an experience, start to finish... a golf experience like I have never had. It was a bit "high brow" for my tastes, but it was still fun.

Out of Office... Again.

2006-07-13T12:54:00.000-07:00

Well, Friday is another day out of the office

I have to meet one of the partners up near Perrysville. We will then drive to the airport & pick up the client. His flight is scheduled to land at 9AM. By the time we get out of the airport, assuming it gets in one time, should be around 10AM.

It is about an hour to Oakmont Country Club. We will eat lunch in the Men's Grill. Tee time is 12:20 PM. Have to figure a 4 1/2 hour round. So, we should finish up around 5PM. Probably, do dinner somewhere nice, then drive this client about an hour south, to Washington PA. Another hour back north to my car. Finally, another 40 min back to my place.

This will be a long day.

Well, It's confirmed...

2006-07-11T18:50:00.000-07:00

Friday, at 12:20 PM, I tee off at Oakmont Country Club.

You non-golfers won't understand, but this is really something. This place is... is... one of the greatest places on earth... When you watch the US Open next year, and you see the greatest golfers in the world struggling... just think that Knight struggled here too...

No matter what else happens, I am walking up the 18th fairway.

"By far the most picturesque hole on Oakmont and perhaps the greatest finishing par four in golf. You must drive in the fairway to avoid "chip out" bunkers left and right. An uphill mid-iron to a very undulated green makes for a great finish."

Auto-Reply: Out of Office

2006-07-11T02:56:00.000-07:00

Well, I have to drive up to Clarion for a Motion this morning. It is just as well, I can avoid the Baseball All-Star Game traffic. Downtown should be a nightmare today.

I'll check back when I get home.

Weekend Report 7/8-7/9

2006-07-10T04:57:00.000-07:00

This weekend was pretty good.

Friday, after work, I stopped at happy hour near the office with D. We drank 2 beers, then is was time to head to the suburbs. I called my friend M t meet me at a bar where I expected this girl T to be hanging out. She was. Eventually, T came over and talked to M and myself. M & T got along pretty well. After M left, I got to know T a little better. (see snippy little post from Saturday morning below)

Saturday, I played golf with M, C, & Tees. I was playing pretty well. Had a 47 for the front 9. I came out smoke’s on the back. For the 1^st 5 holes (10-14) I was only 3 over par, which is really good for me. I went bogy, bogy, par, par, bogy. I was thinking I had a really good shot at breaking 90, having my best round of the summer. Then… you guessed it… I took a “9”!!! A freak’n 9!!! After that, I never recovered… the last 3 holes were all double bogies… I just couldn’t get it back together.

We stopped for a sandwich & some beer on the way home. After, I went up to another local bar where I knew T was filling in for a waitress that evening. She had mentioned it the night before. She said she would be working till 10 & wanted me to stop up. I did. I didn’t stay till 10, when she got off work, but I told her I had to get up really early to golf the next morning with some guys from work.

Sunday was a very early tee time. D, GW & I were playing Suncrest. A nice course and a very good value for the money. I wasn’t having my best round, but I was only 3 strokes behind GW, who I always want to beat. However, he threw his back out on number 8 & bailed out at the turn. D & I finished the round. It seemed a little early to start drinking beer, but D was in the mood. We sat & drank 2, then got outta there.

I went home & took a nap. Cleaned up a little bit. Did some food shopping. I called T around 4ish. She was having dinner at her parents, but wanted to meet me after. We met & had 2 beers at a local bar. Then thought it might be nice to have a glass of wine at my place. She hung out for a little while, then headed home.

Anyway… all in all, it was a pretty good weekend. I’m a little sleepy today because I was up a little later than usual, but I will be fine.

I hope everyone had a good weekend too.

Donna Who????

2006-07-08T01:58:00.000-07:00

Well, I called that one. (see end of the post below)

I made a move last night on the young (relatively speaking) brunette I mentioned in yesterday's post last night. For blog purposes I will call her T.

I was right, she is very friendly.

The Upcoming Weekend

2006-07-07T04:25:00.000-07:00

This weekend should be fairly uneventful.

I have no plans for Saturday, as of yet.

Sunday, I have a tee time for 7:30 AM at Suncrest. So far, it is just me and D. We're still looking for 2 more... any takers?

No chance I will be seeing Donna, especially after what I said last night. Oh well, her loss. There has been this young brunette girl at one of the local bars who has been especially friendly lately. Might have to try for some revenge sex.

*EDIT*

WOOO HOOO!!! I forgot... it's EXPENSE CHECK FRIDAY!!!

We'll See...

2006-07-06T01:37:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was the Partners Meeting.

At that meeting, they were to decide raises for this year. Now, I learned a long time ago not to have over inflated expectations. But, that being said, I have done really well this year. My billable dollars are 15% over the Associate average. I did all the "heavy lifting" on a plaintiff medical malpractice case that earned the firm a substantial fee & recovered the over $10,000. that the firm invested in the case. I am in the office early every morning & don't cause trouble. So, we'll see.

One of the Partners, that I work mostly for, called me last night & asked me to pick him up on way into the office, so I think I am safe in assuming at least I'm not being fired. He is cool, so I will work him for some info on the way in. He is usually tight-liped about this kinda stuff, but I will give it a shot.

Twice a year, the Partners like to sit the associates down in what we call "Star Chamber" and do our bi-annual reviews. The one in July is for raises and the one in December is for bonuses. My last one didn't go very well. My numbers were not strong. Mostly because of what I call "hour poaching." Since then, I have been mainly working for a different partner, and my numbers have jumped dramatically (see a connection?). I hope they see it as well.

As far as my expectations go, on the low end, I'd like to increase my 401K contributions and maybe have enough left over to play a couple nicer golf courses across the month. On the high end, it would be nice to have enough for a nicer place to live, while maintaining my all important "golf & vacation budget."

We"ll see...