A Reminder About Who Has Done Something Lately...

After my interview today on The Michelangelo Signorile Show, it felt important to re-run a post I wrote earlier in February. A little reminder of who has actually done something for the LGBT community, instead of simply talking about it.

Clinton Key in LGBT Massachusetts Win

Super Tuesday is here and LGBT voters across the country are asking, Why won't Clinton or Obama just say they support our rights, clearly, without hesitation, without disclaimers? Why all the wordsmithing?

With a media that will spend days parsing on the color of your pantsuit or the timbre of your laugh - to delicately and cautiously wordsmith is a political reality.

There is, however, a distinct difference in the two candidates and their efforts for the LGBT community. I’m going to vote for with the one who has delivered and who I believe will continue to deliver.

In June 2007, Massachusetts was faced with an anti-gay, anti-marriage equality measure at the Constitutional Convention that would have ripped the state apart. Not only the state, but also it would have set the tone for all marriage equality fights across the country.

Senator Clinton’s campaign manager, Terry McAuliffe, made quiet calls to state legislators to vote down the initiative, according an anonymous source in a key role in the efforts to secure marriage equality in Massachusetts.

Senator Obama? Nothing. Not a word. Not a call. Not one.

In fact, Senator Obama invited to his stage Donny McClurkin, a rabid homophobic gospel singer . He has garnered the support of yet another anti-gay pastor Reverend Kirby Caldwell.

Imagine what would happen to Clinton had she stood on stage, clapping and singing, with a white evangelical who believed Jews should burn in hell.

I was asked today what is the single most important issue for me. I can't say one with out the others. How do you choose between the war, a women's right to choose, healthcare because it is about individuals and it is about American businesses competing on a global stage and public education and someone giving a damn about it, funding it, and staying on top of it.

And I want marriage equality, repeal of Don’t Ask Don’t Tell, a fully inclusive Employment Non-Discrimination Act. I want to be recognized as a full citizen with the same rights as every heterosexual.

Clinton, in my opinion, has already started the work. She’s already working behind the scenes to make important votes happen.

Senator Clinton and Senator Obama have come out against gay marriage. Both have said they would not support federal recognition of gay marriages.

Both have written to the LGBT community asking for their support.

Wordsmithing is a political reality. Actions, in my opinion, speak louder than words. Last June when we were struggling to keep marriage equality in the state of Massachusetts? Clinton’s campaign manager Terry McAuliffe made phone calls.

I’m voting for the one who helped deliver a key victory in LGBT history.

I’m voting for Senator Clinton.

Appearance on The Michelangelo Signorile Show

This blogger's big mouth has landed her a short spot on the Michelangelo Signorile Show today at 3:30PM. Follow the link and you can find out how to tune in.

And here I promised myself this morning not to get mad about Obama anymore.

“Dancing Backwards and in High Heels”

I had a friend tell me the other day, the reason why Obama doesn’t say anything about policy or program is because it’s so similar to Clinton’s it would be almost impossible to distinguish the two.

So Clinton does all the work and Obama gets all the credit?

Yup.

Take for instance, the outreach efforts of Senator Clinton- herself, not her staff- with the gay community. Clinton has marched in Gay Pride parades as both First Lady and as Senator. In addition, she has spoken in front of so many LGBT audiences ranging from the Human Rights Campaign, Empire State Pride Agenda, the Hetrick Martin Institute, PFLAG (Parents, Families, and Friends of Lesbians and Gays), GMHC (Gay Men’s Health Crisis), and the American Foundation for AIDS Research.

But more specifically, she has sat down and given live interviews to LGBT journalists over and over again, some as small as Gay People's Chronicle.

Obama sat for one live interview with The Advocate. He was there with all the other candidates at the Logo forum. No others. Despite repeated requests to his campaign. If they are out there, I’m looking, asking, and not able to find any.

Compare press releases from each candidate about the brutal murder of a gay teen in California, Lawrence King.

Clinton:

“I was deeply saddened by the recent death of 15-year-old Lawrence King who was killed at his school in Oxnard, CA. No one should face intimidation or violence, particularly at school, because of their sexual orientation or the way they express their gender identity"

“We must finally enact a federal hate crimes law to ensure that gay, lesbian and transgender Americans are protected against violent, bias-motivated crimes. We must send a unified message that hate-based crime will not be tolerated.”

Obama:

“It was heartbreaking to learn about Lawrence King’s death, and my thoughts and prayers go out to his family. King’s senseless death is a tragic example of the corrosive effect that bigotry and fear can have in our society. It’s also an urgent reminder that we need to do more in our schools to foster tolerance and an acceptance of diversity; that we must enact a federal hate crimes law that protects all LGBT Americans; and that we must recommit ourselves to becoming active and engaged parents, citizens and neighbors, so that bias and bigotry cannot take hold in the first place. We all have a responsibility to help this nation live up to its founding promise of equality for all.“

Pretty much the same, right? Clinton’s statement came out the day before Obama’s. And you wonder why I feel like Obama rides on Clinton’s coattails?

Because he does.

At the 1988 Democratic National Convention, Ann Richards said, “If you give us the chance, we can perform. After all, Ginger Rogers did everything that Fred Astaire did. She just did it backwards and in high heels.”

What Richards didn’t live long enough to see was not only do you have to dance backwards in high heels, you have to provide all the policy and program. You have to meet with media large and small and endure being called “emotional,” “strident” and “grating.” You smile through “devious,” “power hungry” and having your ankle size subjected to national scrutiny.

People accuse you of having your 28 year old daughter ‘pimped out,” while your competition puffs away on cigarettes clearly given a free pass, even though he is a parent of two young daughters.

Obama only needs to move forward, in sparkling dancing shoes. By being less specific, he can be the perfect screen onto which America projects our wishes and hope for change.

While Clinton has to do the deep dip backwards to prove she’s the smartest one in the room, bending low so she doesn’t hit her head on the glass ceiling.

My friend is right. Obama doesn’t have anything new and different to say. He doesn’t need to because Clinton has already said it.

I only wonder what he is going to do when Clinton is gone because the Republicans will not reach over, pat his arm, and thank him for being there.



*photo thanks to ©Susan Bernstein, 2008.

My Co-Worker

I was called to give a recommendation of a former co-worker yesterday. I was glad to do it, and after the call, I realized, I only have one co-worker now.

My dog.



She's very efficient at her job. She keeps my feet warm and guarded from all that might come near them. She growls when anyone comes up the walk. Or pulls in the driveway. Or a squirrel runs by.

She never barks. It's a little weird, but she never does unless she's been left outside alone for more than twenty minutes. Then she lets out a small, muffled wuff.

It's not a demand, rather a pathetic plea, Oh com' on you guys, I'm still out here!

I thought maybe it was time for a review. You know, like all companies have with their employees. Get her a little plaque for "employee of the month."

Or year. Not a lot of competition in this office.

She should get a reward. A cookie. Little extra walk around the neighborhood. Trip to the spa.

You never know. I might need her as a reference some day. I don't want her to only mention the four year old Pumas I wore that definitely needed to be replaced and all the times I rolled over her tail by mistake.

Time to give my co-worker a proper shout out.

You know... just in case.

Oops... 9PM debate

Marti and I go live at 8:30pm.

I think she was messin' with my mojo.

Tonight?

A preview of tonight. Think to yourself, Sara? Tina Fey. Marti? Oprah.




THANKS to Nailing Jello to the Wall. Great find!

Live Blogging Tonight

Tonight I will be on The Bilerico Project blogging live with Marti Abernathey about the debate at 8PM.

This is it folks. March 4th looms large.

I will be commenting as a Clinton supporter, and Marti, a Obama supporter.

I know. She's still my friend.

PLEASE come "listen" and comment!

http://www.bilerico.com/

Parental Pride

I have told many stories about my kids. Some funny, some sad, and always, I am proud of them.

But this letter Jake wrote, still has me beaming.

Last weekend, Jake and Allan were watching "Storm Chasers" on the weather channel. They were doing a segment on the tornado that hit Greensburg, Kansas. Immediately upon seeing the devastation, he turned to Allan and said, I want to give them money.

We have a 'swear jar' filled with the dollars collected mostly from my swearing. Anyone caught saying a swear word owes a dollar. The boys have also done lemonade stands from time to time, to collect money to give away.

Allan, moved by Jake's strong reaction, emailed the school superintendent for Greensburg, KS. Allan is a professor in the field of education, so it wasn't hard to find. The next morning, there was an email from the superintendent with a grateful acceptance for any and all help.

This is the letter Jake wrote to send in with the money. Allan helped with the spelling but the words and the sentiment are all Jake's.




The Superintendent promised to buy things for a second grade class with the $120.31 Jake sent in.

I am so proud of my son.

Call Me a Fool...

but I so agree with Senator Clinton in this speech...

The Oscars

The wife and I are watching the Oscars. Jeanine has spent years in the business and I while I'm only interested in the gowns, she cares about the awards.

I have noticed a disturbing trend tonight. All awards are going to non-english speakers.

ah HA. That's how they are keeping the speeches short.

That's all. It's not a debate after all.

The Close of Vacation...

It's the end of school vacation.

Jake asked me this morning why I was dancing in the kitchen.

Because today is a happy day, I said.

School tomorrow, right?

I nodded. Yup. School tomorrow.

He was not amused.

I did not care.

I love my kids. I do. I enjoyed most of the week, too. The late nights, hanging out watching movies, and sleeping in late. It's just that the lack of structure makes me wiggy.

I asked Ben and Zachary later if they had a good vacation.

Yup, Zachary nodded. It was good.

We should have gone to Florida, Ben said.

It's true. I should have gone down to my sister in law's house in Parkland and soaked up some sun. I wrote her an email and said the next time I pass up free digs for February vacation, she is to slap me.

She promised to slap me if I needed it and even if I didn't.

But tomorrow? Everyone is off to school. Back to early bedtimes and set routines. My idea of heaven.

The kids are crying.

I'm dancing.

It's the close of vacation...

Same Shit, Different Boobs? No Thanks.

Jeanine is coming home today.

I have really missed her. I've missed being near her, touching her, sleeping with her, but mostly? I've missed talking with her. Not to but with.

We actually talk now. Not just about stuff and details of getting everyone to the right place at the right time, but about our feelings.

Our life together. Our future.

It's so strange.

I'm nervous about how well things are going. Before Jeanine left for the week, I decided I had a crazy wife.

Or maybe she was sneaking anti-depressants.

She had been... sweet. Genuinely happy. Funny. In a great mood.

And present. In the moment. Right here, right now.

Jeanine has never been like that. A feeling was something you had to pry out of her and sitting around and talking about them was a fate worse than death for her.

It's everything I've ever wanted from her and it's scary.

Maybe she's a pod person.

I know why. We've worked two long, hard years on this. We've both wanted to leave, we've both hated each other and ultimately we've both made a ton of compromises to make this work. There have been so many times when I thought it would just be easier to start over again with someone new.

When I look at people I know who have, I see them dealing with the same shit in the new relationship. Just different boobs.

No thanks.

If I couldn't figure it out with her, it seemed my chances were pretty good that I'd end up with the same issues.

This change feels fragile but I know better. It's come from willingness and desire. She'll fall back and be a jerk. So will I. But we've reached a new place, one we've never been at before. We know how it feels to be here.

We know. We've actually talked about it.

And tonight? I can't wait to talk about it some more.

Well... not JUST talk...

Clinton Addresses Lawrence King's Murder

Today Senator Clinton's campaign released a statement:


“I was deeply saddened by the recent death of 15-year-old Lawrence King who was killed at his school in Oxnard, CA. No one should face intimidation or violence, particularly at school, because of their sexual orientation or the way they express their gender identity"

“We must finally enact a federal hate crimes law to ensure that gay, lesbian and transgender Americans are protected against violent, bias-motivated crimes. We must send a unified message that hate-based crime will not be tolerated.”

Attractive Nuisance

A friend and I were talking yesterday about a trampoline in the backyard of her neighbor. The legal term, she said, is an "attractive nuisance."

Like me? I joked.

Exactly like you, she replied.

Hmmm. I'm not sure if I should be flattered or insulted.

Some Favorite Vacation Week Lines

It's Friday and I'm still alive. I have a great network of neighbors and friends. Kids have been passed back and forth, to and fro.

Jake and his friend Logan have to be the cutest, sweetest pair of boys ever in the world. They fancy themselves twins and while they are only six months apart, they could not look more different physically.

The other morning, Logan called me "Mama Sara" which is what Jake usually calls me. That's it. Starting the college fund now, he's officially mine.

Some of my favorite lines from the kids this week...

I was getting Jake some lunch. He wanted to open the can of tuna and immediately started whining to do it, instead of asking.

Since when has whining worked for you? I asked.

Since I was a baby, he answered confidently.


Ben, oh, my son Ben... He and I were having a conversation about lying. He had been caught, again. As I sat across from him, I leaned in and asked, Why are you lying?

Because Jake started talking.

What?

Since he started talking I started lying.

Said with a head flip and complete attitude. No, I did not laugh but I wanted to.


We did not make it out to Mass MoCa as hoped- the museum was closed the day I wanted to be there and with all the kid swapping plans, it didn't make sense to go. Jake, Zachary and I went to the new ICA on the Boston waterfront.

It is an amazing museum, filled with great contemporary art. I'm not sure about taking a toddler there- when the 'piece' is clothes on the floor with a brief case and cell phone, it's hard to keep them off of it. My boys, however, are fairly well trained. They look at the padded benches lining the hall and ask if they can sit on them or if they are art.

After we went through the museum, we stopped at the cafe for a snack. I asked them what they thought?

Really cool, Jake said.

I liked it a lot, Zachary nodded. Especially the view of the harbor. And the pin box.

Yeah, I liked the pin box, too, said Jake, referring to an enormous 4x4 cube made entirely of stick pins.

I liked the spider, I said. What if they had that in MoCa?

Oh, yeah, Zachary eagerly agreed, if it was in the big space? and was that big? so cool.

Which museum do you like better? I asked.

Both, Zachary said confidently, I like them both for different reasons.

Jake nodded in agreement.

I could have cried. I can't tell you how important art is to me. It was to my mother. To have my boys excited about a contemporary art museum, where they have to be careful not to step on the artwork?

All I can say is that was the best line of the week for me.

The American People

"The" moment from the debate last night.



It really is about the American People.

Debate Wrap Up

I think Clinton, again, talks substance, talks policy, talks program.

And he does not.

I think the high road was taken, for the most part.

I'm not going to take the high road.

Obama's health care program is ridiculous. Clinton's will work.

Clinton needed to score some points and in my opinion, she did. She's smarter, more informed.

But let's face it folks. Okay, I will face it. Either one can beat the pants off McCain.

Debate...

I have to say, I do not understand Obama. I do not understand what he is talking about. I do not understand through his ums and uhs what he is getting at.

Perhaps I am stupid.

Nope. I asked one of the smartest people I know just now. She didn't understand either.

Debate....

Obama just said lead paint, greenhouse gases, trade is good, and Wall Street all in one rambling sentence.

No policy. These are platitudes.


Oh, wait, she has policy.

Trade enforcement by a new position.

Moratorium on foreclosures.

Freeze interest rates, stimuli and business incentives for green jobs.

I'm sorry, what did Obama say? Oh, yes. Nothing.

Debate...

In a largely latino audience, they both go for a serious ass kiss.

But they are saying the same thing.

As usual, they are saying the same thing.

I don't know about Cuba... they are about to recognize gay marriage. Can we stop demonizing the whole country?

(ducking now)

Debate...

Obama goes for the war.

And then he rambles.

The man cannot hold a sentence/idea unless it's a pre-written speech.

Ooo, second lesbian mention.

Does America know Barbara Jordan was a lesbian? I think not.

Sorry, folks. I thought that was shaky and all over the place.

Debate....

She looks scared.

Please don’t look scared.

Barbara Jordan!! First lesbian strike!

Ann Richards- oh, we all wish she had been a lesbian- loved her.

Going for health care- that’s her strong point. See? I told you she wasn’t going negative.

Debate Time

Will Clinton go after Obama?

I don't think so. I think she will keep being about substance, and he'll have one point to her seven.

And it won't matter.

Fluff wins in this country.

Gay Earthquakes

Gay sex is causing earthquakes in Israel.

Shlomo Benizri, of the ultra-Orthodox Jewish Shas Party, said the tremors had been caused by lawmaking that gave "legitimacy to sodomy."

I might need to buy me a ticket to go visit. That has to be some seriously good sex going on to cause earthquakes.

Blogging During Debate Tonight

While my children are insisting that American Idol is FAR more important than the debate, I will be blogging during the debate tonight.

I'm not going to post the whole McCain news conference today, in response to the New York Times article, but... um... do you think they have him on some serious medication or what?

Either way, whether it is Obama or Clinton, I cannot wait to see them debating the new, calm McCain. They better be careful not to drug him up too much.

Or too little.

Family is Family

I'm not a big fan of sappy stories on the Today Show. But when I saw this on pageoneq.com, it made me smile.




Gay families are not perfect. We live, love and sometimes get divorced or break up. Our kids struggle with an additional stigma of having gay parents but it's not because they wish they had a different family- it's because of the way others perceive what is normal to them.

My favorite part of this piece, though, is that Tiki Barber, big ol' football player that he is, was the one doing the interview.

Nice touch.

A Little Straight Humor

I saw this link on Huffington Post and could not resist. For the first time in the wild, gorillas are doing the deed face to face.

And they tell us mission style is the way of the lord.

Such excitement in the National Geographic world, as this is the first time it's been photographed.

(Resisting a great urge here to discuss the evolution of pornography.)

In the honor of science and a real sign of evolution, I am going to post the pictures. Creationists should look away.

First it seems, a little snuggle, little hugging and kissing. They didn't get the shot of Dad tossing junior in front of the TV.



Then, the big event. A little scratch on the back, toes curling, she's feelin' good.



And finally, the damning sign for all that believe in creationism? After a fabulous orgasm, she's booked herself a nice treatment at the spa.



Tell me we didn't evolve from the apes.

IM Madness

What does a 12 year old on vacation want to do?

IM. Instant message. All day. All night.

Now, I'm no stranger to IMing. I have a virtual office, and there are people I check in with daily, if nothing more than a joke or a 'water cooler' conversation. It keeps me connected and when you're working alone, it's nice to have that sense of community.

Ben puts me to shame. I can handle two, maybe three conversations. Ben had about five going on last night. I was watching- and reading- over his shoulder. He claimed to have a facebook account- he does not. He claimed to have a two week vacation- he does not. He also claimed that I was going to torture him with a haircut.

100% true. I did.

The computer he is allowed to use- another long story about one he is NOT allowed to use- has time limits set for being online. Once the time is reached, he has to get me to go on as administrator and add more time.

Last night at 10:15pm? I said no more. Go read a book.

After we returned from the haircut- which looks great- he came running into my office.

MOM. I need more time.

Go outside, Ben.

But Mom...

No, later on but not right now.

But I'm talking to [girl A]. And [girl b]. And [girl c]. And...

Ben, go outside.

He left the office, distressed that he would have to say "brb."

Less than five minutes later, he returned, triumphant.

Mom. Don't worry. I'm IMing on my phone.

I was worried? I don't remember being worried.

I think I have problems. I can only imagine sitting in Hillary Clinton's shoes today. A vote in Wisconsin and Hawaii, two places she probably never imagined would be so potent a few months ago.

An Apology

Someone's alcoholism is not a joke.

It's not funny when someone is causing fear and pain in other's lives.

I simply could not get past the headline, which cracked me up.

Tacky.

Sorry.

Still laughing, though. Can't help it.

Woman of My Dreams

You know, my wife and I have worked long and hard on our relationship. Things lately have been great.

Really great.

I am afraid, though, I've found the real woman of my dreams.



I can't even come up with a better title.

"Ex-Homecoming Queen Beats Sister With Fake Leg In Trailer."

I think she might know my sister.

Eat Local!

Okay, this makes me sick.

I have long been a proponent of organic farming. Small family farms, with human practices, like Niman Ranch. You should know where your food comes from.

I am currently reading a book by Michael Pollan, "In Defense of Food." Bottom line? Eat Local. And don't eat anything "your grandmother wouldn't recognize."

"Eat Food. Not Too Much. Mostly Plants."

Amen and pass the ketchup.

If people knew where the food on their plates came from, there would be outrage, daily, about such things. My friend, PETA man, loves to show me videos of chicken carnage, beef being stapled in the head, on and on.

They are all factory farms, is my response.

True organic farming requires animal waste. Balance, people, balance. I'm not giving up a hanger steak from Northeast Family Farms.

I'm also never eating at McDonalds again.

I have a lot of vegetarians in my life. I am a lesbian, after all. I don't agree with not eating meat, or chicken, or pork or really, anything.

I do believe in moderation, craft and the beauty of a truly balanced farm.

Want to stop huge, corporate farms abuse of animals?

Eat Local.

Vacation Week

Three boys. One Mom.

One week of vacation.

It all starts today.

Don’t cry for me, it was my choice. I could have gone to Florida to visit Jeanine’s family. I wanted to stay home with the kids.

And then I found out Jeanine was leaving for a game development conference for the WEEK in San Francisco. Walter and Allan are going to NYC for the ballet, tickets purchased long ago. Four parents and I’m here on my own.

It’ll be fun.

Last night, pizza, sodas and some video games. I watched the boys race Lamborghinis.

Ben taunted Zachary, Look, I’ll beat you to the mall...

Zachary simply kept to smashing into anything he could, as fast as he could.

Finally, we settled down to a movie.

Why is it my friend can get her 12 year old to watch "Planet of the Apes," a campy, somewhat culturally relevant movie and I’m stuck watching “Game Plan” with the Rock?

I played approximately 950 games of Russian Solitaire. I’m ashamed to admit it, but I did get teary when the little girl left her dad.

Today, I made them clean their rooms. I’m evil. No question about it.

I did threaten to take them out to North Adams for a night, to go to Mass MoCa. I love that museum.

They all howled, Noooooooooo.

Like I’m going to listen.

Ben asked to go to NYC instead. I said, I’d still take you to an art museum.

That’s okay.

I was puzzled till Walter explained, There is a three story Abercrombie and Fitch nearby.

Ah. I see.

Mass MoCa is a much better choice. Besides, they actually do like the place, even though they will never admit it. They love the permanent exhibit of the iron turds on the floor. Poop is a big hit. Second floor, all the way to the end, they know exactly where it is.

For the rest of today, though, we’re just going to chill.

I’m not that evil.

Sticks, Stones and Dead Boys Bones

I love Ben's videos. This one is a little long, but if you hang on, Jake comes in the background and annoys him- welcome to my world.




And it is the reason why I am so afraid for him. After hearing about the boy who hung himself, Jeanine turned to me, looked at Ben and said, Well... we're doing okay, aren't we?

After he taped the video, he came running downstairs with lipstick and asked me to put it on.

No, thank you. Once a year, that's it for me.

C'mon, Mom, just put some on...

I couldn't write about Lawrence King's murder until yesterday. I still can't really touch on my own fears for my son.

When Ben was in pre-school, he wanted to dress up as Blossom for Halloween. Blossom was the head Power Puff girl. He loved her. I bought the costume.



Then I sat him down and said, Some people might not understand why a boy would want to be Blossom.

He didn't care. Blossom was his favorite character.

I remember shrugging and saying, I think you look great. But, I want you to know, someone might tease you about it.

Blossom was one tough chick.

He doesn't dress in pink anymore, or wear heels or make up, like Lawrence King. His budding sexuality is being expressed towards girls, for the time being.

And he is constantly anxious.

I don't have to tell him it's not safe. He knows.

He also loves posting on YouTube. He is a ham, at heart and incredibly creative. He has always been too afraid to join a theater club, but has a new outlet for his desire to be a star.

His friends have his address.

All I can say is it was a lot easier to walk him around as Blossom on Halloween night, armed with a firm look to all the people who opened the door to my boy dressed in pink.

Sticks and stones
may break my bones
but words will never hurt me

Unfortunately, now kids are carrying guns.

And we're left to bury the dead boys bones.

Just One More Dead Faggot

I have no words for how I feel today. Not only was a 15-year-old boy shot in the back of the head by someone who hated him because he was gay, because he was not masculine, because he wore jewelry and makeup, but also a 10-year-old boy hung himself in England.

He wanted to be a girl. He wanted to wear his sister’s clothes and makeup. His mother let him wear girl’s underwear but told him he’d have to wait till he was older to wear makeup.


Of course, by then it could get him killed.

The message of hate is getting through to our kids, loud and clear. It’s okay to kill someone who freaks you out because they don’t fit a gender role to your liking.

That is, if they haven’t killed themselves.

Ten years old and full of so much shame he hung himself. Is anyone listening?

In my LGBT community, we argue about who is more pro LGBT rights, Obama or Clinton.

It’s been days since Lawrence King was shot dead. Neither candidate has issued a statement or said a word. The national media has done a complete pass on the story.

Both candidates make me sick.

Blogger Mike Rogers, wrote earlier, the “reality is such that if either of them said the same things about woman, Blacks or Jews, they would never be elected president. Imagine Hillary not promising to immediately lift a ban on women serving in the armed forces. Imagine Barack saying we'll have a separate (but equal) institution of civil unions for Blacks.”

While the gay community has been blazing for days about this incident, the rest of the country dozes on, reading about Michelle Obama’s wardrobe choices on the campaign trail, or Roger Clemens lying his ass off on Capitol Hill.

Because this is the one kind of hate no one seems to be willing to stand up against. Let’s not offend anyone who believes Jesus was anti-homosexual. Careful not to send a message of tolerance to young children in case they find some condolence in that message and face another day.

Don’t worry. I get the message, loud and clear.

Just one more dead faggot.

No You Can't

Who is funding the McCain run for President? The following folks...




Thanks, Tibbetts!

McCain, The Pro War Candidate

Watch carefully as he jokes about bombing Iran.

Quote of the Day

If male homosexuals are called "gay," then female homosexuals should be called "ecstatic."
~ Shelly Roberts


Thanks, Donald!

Something Light

A shout out to Jen Jorczak at Bilerico.com for posting this fabulous safe sex Valetine's day video.

I have to say, it's been a day of less than laughs.

A gay kid killed, divorce looms in a friend's marriage, McCain votes for torture- yes, die did today.

I saw this and had to laugh.




As the Beatles sang,

"Obladi oblada life goes on bra
Lala how the life goes on
Obladi oblada life goes on bra
Lala how the life goes on."

Hate Crime Charges Filed

The Ventura county shooting has been declared a hate crime. The victim, Lawrence King, is brain dead. The charges will be filed once he is officially declared dead, as the family has decided to donate his organs.

King had been in the "foster care system and lived at Casa Pacifica, a nearby center for abused and neglected children."

Why do I know this story is only going to get sadder and sadder?

Gay Teen Killed

A fifteen year old boy was shot at school yesterday. He died later last night.

He was openly gay. Routinely teased, threatened and abused.

This time, one of the other boys made good on his threats. First period English class.

I can remember knowing I was a lesbian when I was 15 years old. Afraid, ashamed, I kept the secret and told only one friend. I thought my mother would disown me (she did when first hearing it), my friends would hate me (some did, some didn't), and that I would be alone for the rest of my life.

I never thought anyone would shoot me.

Not when I was 15.

New Blog Roll Listing

I'm a little embarrassed I have not done this earlier. I love Sue's site, Nailing Jello to the Wall, and highly recommend people read it.

Especially if you are a Clinton supporter. She has an excellent suggestion today for getting through the election season.

And if you're an Obama supporter? Go taunt her instead of me.

Rainy, Sad Day

What a miserable day.

It is pouring rain.

The kids had a two hour delay this morning which meant they were like restless dogs, circling, snarling but not shoveling.

Jake has a single tooth dangling by a thread that he will not let me yank. I swear he's going to swallow it. And I am NOT finding it for the tooth fairy if he does.

Clinton lost in three states yesterday and the Obama voters- there are many- in my life are starting to walk the confident and cocky walk.

Have I mentioned how much I hate to lose?

Miserable.

So time for some good news.

The good news is, my wife has been promoted to a new, major job at Berklee College of Music. She's an assistant Vice President of Academic Affairs. With the spanking new title, she gets an office on the Presidents floor, and a lot of other professional goodies, like a big raise. She went from part time teaching in 2004, to VP in 4 years. Not bad.

I'm very proud of her.

She's taking me out for Valentine's day tonight because we both know better than to go out on the actual day. I haven't seen her in days; I'm looking forward to some time to talk to her.

Oops. That was almost a negative.

My office is almost done. I only need to paint, and that's something I do so no one else is walking through my house daily.

And get a lock.

I got to talk about stocks and finance on Tuesday for hours. I loved it. Better than chocolate, an afternoon nap or a T Vine red wine. But I can't talk about the current news because it's all doom and gloom. I believe the word "painful" was used in almost every sentence about the outlook for 2008.

The wife is taking care of the valentine's the boys need to make, Walter is going to watch the boys tonight which means I get to miss 'taco night' yet again and my dog keeps my feet warm on days like today.

If Clinton loses, we will have a great candidate in Obama. Someone more than just the anti-candidate, like John Kerry. Someone to pull this country out of the mess we are in, move us forward.

I think personally that Clinton will be much better at doing that, but I'm sure after spending the first 100 days like a deer in headlights, Obama will begin to figure out what Clinton already knows how to do.

Anything but another 4 years of Republican, war-mongering bullshit.

There I go again. Can't help it. It's a rainy, sad day today.

And I hate to lose.

Primary Update

Obama, as reported by exit polls, sweeps all three states, DC, Maryland, Virginia.

Huckabee continues to be a scary second, barely losing to McCain in Virginia.

Snap, Crackle, Pop

My brain is going in too many directions.

At the moment, I'm still in business suit, cooking chicken tenders for the kids quick snack, forwarding a piece in the NYTimes on interest rates, listening to Ben tell me about the girl who is going to ask him out on Valentine's day and typing this blog.

Valentine's Day. Shit. I have to go get cards or have Jake and Zachary make them- they still have classroom lists and somewhat mandatory valentine cards to hand out.

We have to leave for music lessons in 15 minutes, I can't forget that Ben charged three songs on his cell phone bill- he owes me money for those- and the dog needs to be fed.

Need to remind Walter he's with the kids tomorrow, have to have yet another document notorized for my mother's estate, get the tenders out of the oven, pour the milk, answer the phone, let the dog out, make that five minutes till we leave and...

I have to pee.

There is goes. Brain overload.

Snap, Crackle, Pop.

Dolly Parton and Me

The one thing that always amuses me, is when I'm wearing something tight on top? No one ever confuses me for a man.

That would be due to the enormous shelf I'm hoisting around.

Just like Dolly Parton. Poor dear, she's had to postpone her tour by 6 to 8 weeks due to back problems.

"Hey, you try wagging these puppies around a while and see if you don't have back problems," the folksy singer-songwriter said in a statement.

Amen, sister.

New Photo

Oooookay. Time to update the photo. On Huffington, on Bilerico, and here.



I think I need some vaseline on the lens.

Seriously, this haircut reflects more of who I am than the long hair ever did. Sounds silly to me, in many ways, to hear myself talk about hair. I personally grew tired of having the endless hair ties lying about the house, my office, my car, one almost always on my wrist, just in case. I've had short hair almost all of my adult life.

And I've been called "sir" almost all of my adult life.

The funny thing is, even with the long hair? I still was called "sir." Not always, but enough. A more honest picture of myself would be the following:



I wear a baseball cap a lot. I have my favorites- John Deere, Life is Good, and of course, the Red Sox. And note the addition of the flannel lined shirt- hey, it's cold up here!

The bottom line is that I look like a boy even with hair down my back.

My friend Kristen, at our superbowl party said, Ya look like Thomas Jefferson, for crying out loud. Cut it off.

I did. Not because she told me to, but because I knew it wasn't me.

Besides, I'll take the short hair over looking like I have a mullet have the time. I never did get how to blow dry the top so it didn't just lay there, looking flat.

I had someone tell me once my androgyny worked well- the plunging neck line and men's pants which fit because I have no hips. And the fact that I tend to saunter.

I had never thought of it that way before. Androgyny. I liked that.

I realize people use me as a projection screen for their own gender identity issues. Case in point, my son Ben. He wants me to be the perfect vision of femininity. It's too dangerous for me to walk around with men's clothes and cowboy boots.

Or not fair.

It's time to update the photos. I'm not a long locked, blond. Actually, I'm not really a blond, I just have an amazing stylist. I'm also old enough, comfortable enough in my own skin, not to care if I'm called "sir."

That's a lot of power to be handed over a haircut.

The truth is, I want to look like me. I never did get used to seeing myself in the mirror brushing all that hair.

Walking across the playground on Friday, one of my favorite moms came up and said, It's about time. Enough of that girly-girl stuff. THIS looks good.

There you have it.

Except for the vaseline...

Who to Haunt?

My friend Suzy, whom I’ve known for about a million years, wrote me yesterday to tell me my mother has been haunting her dreams.

Funny, she’s been out of mine for a while. The last dream I had with her in it, we were very civil to each other, she helped me find something I needed and then we talked about a new cat she had.

In real life, I can say that I think about her every day. She was the sun, the moon and the stars to me for 43 years. That doesn’t go away overnight. Maybe it never will.

I haven’t written about her in a long time. I’m working on a longer piece. Our relationship could not possibly be squeezed into a few paragraphs on a blog.

I’ve been criticized about my decision to write about her. My mother was very private which is like saying the sun is a little warm. I, however, am not. I hope my story helps others in similar struggles. If not? Then it helps me to say it out loud.

We dealt with our narcissism in very different ways.

Someday my children will read what I have written. It is important to me to be as honest as possible and not fabricate an image of perfection in either my mother or myself. I am very much like my mother, pieces of which I am deeply proud of, pieces I am horrified by.

I’m sorry my mother is haunting your dreams, Suz. Try to remember that beneath all that judgmental bluster was a deeply insecure woman trying to make sense of her own decisions.

You know, just your friend you’ve known for a million years

Chris Crocker and Gay Bashing Online

After playfully posting my son's YouTube video, I watched this, posted on Bilerico.com.

When I first started this blog, I talked to Jeanine, Walter and Allan. I said, this could potentially be somewhat dangerous. Showing our children, showing our lives, standing out and being proud.

We all agreed it was worth it. If some people changed their minds about families with gay parents, then it was worth it.

Watching Crocker's video was a reminder. I've been very lucky to have supportive folks comment on my blog.

Say what you want about his short, "Leave Britney Alone," he did not deserve to be threatened, over and over again.

My Shy Middle Son

Zachary has a few shorts on YouTube.

Very polite, shy and respectful, his teachers say.



Um... shy. Yeah. He was using Photobooth. The kid has a great sense of humor. Hard to imagine in a year or two he'll be a preteen.

And yes, I had him cut his hair after.

Obama in a Three State Sweep

Obama wins, decidedly, in all three states today.

Huckabee is WINNING in Louisiana and Kansas.

Folks? I'm beyond concerned for my country. Listen, I can live with Obama, no question.

But Obama versus Huckabee? What does that say? What kinds of deep divisions are there in this country? I live in Massachusetts, la la land of the liberal.

I'm a little blown away.

The "Good Ol' Boys" at NBC At It Again

This time NBC's target was Chelsea Clinton.

"The reporter, David Shuster, had said Thursday that Ms. Clinton had been “pimped out” to make calls to superdelegates on behalf of her mother."

The NYTimes goes on to report on a "blistering letter."

The letter was not "blistering." I am so sick of the treatment Clinton gets in the press. It was a clear letter from a parent.

If it were me? It would have been blistering.

The following is the letter. Click on the image to enlarge it.

Huckabee Wins Kansas

In a state that went 74% to Obama, the Republicans have voted 60% for Huckabee.

I don't even think I can begin to understand that except to say there must be a huge divide between the two groups.

That or God knows where a woman belongs.

Later, I'll have the results for 158 delegates in Louisiana, Nebraska and Washington between Obama and Clinton.

Bad Habits

I walked into the kitchen yesterday afternoon and I saw one of my own worst bad habits. I had left the cabinet door where the plates are open, the drawer for the utensils open and the door to the glasses open. And the pantry doors were open, too.

I know it’s a horrible habit. I know I do it all the time. I have been known to leave the refrigerator doors open and walk out of the room.

I leave closet doors open.

I cannot seem to shut a door. Except the door to the house. I always shut that. Well, usually.

My wife ignores it. Which means she does not shut the doors behind me, just leaves them there, open maws, waiting for some kind soul to take notice.

I quit smoking cold turkey over twenty years ago. Can I stop leaving doors open? No. And I’ve been consciously trying for twenty years.

I will refrain from listing my wife’s bad habits.

Anyone else want to chime in? And I mean bad habits, not gross ones. I honestly don’t want to hear about anything nasty.

Storm Ahead...

I was talking to a friend last night that said she had started a new job 9 days ago and immediately her two young kids got sick and she’s been home with them.

Ah, I remember the days.

My kids don’t get sick very often anymore.

They were so sweet when they were little with a fever. You just wanted to hold them the whole time. You feel so bad for them, their listlessness.

Then they get older.

Case in point, last night.

You see, I know my friend with the two sick little ones who can only promise her new employer really, really, she’s a good worker and will do the great job she was hired to do, that someday, it’ll all be different.

It will be different, Susan. How? Well…

Jeanine and I went out last night. Had some lovely oysters down at B&G’s, the single best place in Boston to have a few shucked for you. We met up with Walter and another friend, ordered plates and plates of oysters from Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick, Washington State. We topped it off with crab beignets with a light mustard sauce, slice of orange, fennel and olive. Add a couple glasses of a great Gruner Veltliner- crisp, bright, a hint of citrus to match the oyster’s perfectly- and we were in heaven.

Walking back to the car, hand in hand, feeling the love, things were looking good.

Guess who is up at 11PM when we walk in the door.

Ben.

Now, I know I’ve been picking on Ben lately. I love my son. I do. He is a good kid, with a big heart and can be the kindest soul at times.

And then there was last night.

Who hasn't finished his homework?

Ben.

His half hour on the computer had finished (then it locks him out) because he used it to listen to iTunes, and then when he needed to type his paper, no luck. The baby sitter suggests he writes it up by hand, so he can type it in the morning- oh no. That won't do.

Zachary- ever the middle child- offers his time (they all get 1/2 hour). Ben said, NOOOOOOOOOO.

11PM, there he sits, on his bed, screaming at Jeanine that it is HER fault because SHE locks the computer...

I honestly think I am going to need a Valium drip to get through the teen years. What the hell am I going to do when Zachary starts acting this way?

Another friend said to me today, You know, we’re all working on time management skills. He’s only 12. Take it easy. Work with him and remember some of this is his way of getting attention from you. It’s that push pull of adolescence.

When I calm, like after running three miles or swimming a mile, I get it. I do. I know he’s trying to figure out how to be popular, how to keep acne away and how to do his homework.

Homework is definitely last on the list.

I was 12 once.

I’m trying to find ways to help him negotiate his new, unfolding world of responsibility and to let him have enough freedom to make his own mistakes. I can’t save him from teen angst nor do I particularly want to. I think it’s healthy to struggle. I think we learn frustration tolerance through not having everything go smoothly.

He’s 12. I can’t keep holding his hand. It scares me when parents don’t let kids fail or try to mend every hurt feeling. Sometimes, things suck. They hurt.

And, eventually, it gets better.

I know he’s trying to figure it all out. So am I. I have never had a 12-year-old child before. I certainly don’t know how to do the math they do now. I’m not always the best at time management either.

But when it’s 11PM at night and I’m full of romantic notions of getting to spend some time with my wife, it’s really hard to be calm, even and know the right thing to say.

Jeanine told him to go to bed; we were not having one more moment of discussion. She told him she would set her alarm for 5:30AM- and did- so he could finish in the morning.

Tears streaming down his face, she shut the door. He loudly proclaimed, from behind the door, how much he hated the two of us.

I miss the times when their struggle was simple. They had a fever, or a cold, and snuggled up next to you on the couch, just wanting to be held.

I could make the world better with some Advil, a blanket, and the comforting sound of my heart beating, their head resting on my chest.

I’m clueless as to what I can do to help my son grow into a healthy young man. I’m navigating my own stormy waters of unknown, just as he is. When do I let go? When do I hold tight?

And when do I need to realize it is completely out of my hands…

Million Dollar Mitt

See ya! Bub-bye!

You know, he should have given the million dollars per delegate he spent straight to the people. What an economic stimuli and a much better legacy that the flip-flopping idiot that you are.

I am so pleased Mitt is out of the race. His used car salesman appeal with slimy haircut... bet you wish you picked Utah to run for Governor in, don't cha?

Don't let the door hit you on the ass on the way out!

Pop, Lock and Drop It

I love my job. I do. I cannot imagine doing anything else. I’ve always explained to my kids that I write, I serve on several foundation boards and I’m trying hard to have a positive impact on the world.

Today, I’m not so sure.

Ben came home yesterday, waltzed into my office and said to me, Are you a stay at home mom?

I said, No, I work at home.

So you’re a stay at home mom.

No, I work at home. My office is in my house. You are standing in it. But when you all were little, I was a stay at home mom. My full time job was taking care of you all. It’s not anymore.

Stay at home mom, he nodded confidently and walked away.

Today? He came in my office again.

MOM, what did you DO?

I got a haircut, Ben.

OH GOD… please don’t wear that fleece out anywhere, okay?

I have on my wife’s bulky, black and white checked fleece. It’s very warm and after having hot flashes to heat a small city this morning, I needed something more than the tee shirt I was wearing.

My hair is now short again. After two years of having it halfway down my back- okay, not really that long but it felt that way- I cut it off into a new, sassy do.

At least that’s what my stylist said.

Ben…

Okay, just wear a pink tank top. You know, layered look.

BEN…

But mom… it’s so short. People are going to think you are a boy.

Ben, people called me sir when my hair went halfway down my back. It’s the way I look. Now please, I’m trying to finish up…

I’m just sayin’

BEN, it hurts my feelings. Can you please lay off the pink tank tops and terrible hair comments? I know I’m not pretty…

Oh, but you are mom. If you didn’t look like a boy.

BEN! DROP IT!

At that point, he ran out of the office.

This is from a kid whose pants don’t cover his rear end.

Maybe I need a new job. One that takes me out of my home to a place where no one requires me to wear a pink tank top or comments on my hair style.

Or a lock on my office door.

Morning Recap

Clinton did in fact take California. Obama won five, Clinton five. The race is very close.

Romney spent over 38 million dollars of his own money and barely holds a lead over Huckabee, who has spent almost nothing. It just goes to show you can buy a lot with money but you can pay someone to like you. The news last night said at one point that Romney had spent over 1 million dollars per delegate.

You're still the guy who changed your mind with every political breeze, Mitt.

Personally, it's been a tough morning already. Not only did I forget to eat dinner last night till late, the wife made me get up this morning to pack the kids lunches. Shuffling half-awake into the kitchen, feeling gross from eating too late at night, what was on the counter but...

Pringles.

I don't think she likes me very much.

Last Update for Tonight

Clinton wins California.

Now, I'm going to bed.

Oh, Yes, Another Update

Ooooh, lookie, McCain is sober tonight. They must have a scotch patch on him somewhere.

But right now, the beauty of the moment is McCain hearts Huckabee.

Not so much Romney.

I think he’d hug Huckabee and maybe give him a kiss, too.

Obama wins Utah. North Dakota. Colorado.

Yet Another Update

Obama takes North Dakota.

I just had to listen to Mike Huckabee talk about "the mother tongue..."

now I'll never have sex again.

Folks, that man is for real. Can someone find some scandal in his closet?

More Updates

Obama wins Kansas, Minnesota and Connecticut.

Huge win for Obama in Connecticut. That seems to be where Teddy Kennedy went bump and made a big impact.

Looking at the individual town returns on Boston.com, Romney did in fact win MA. But not by much.

More Updates

1.5 million Democratic ballots in CA. They will be counted tonight and 60% of them are from women. Who will clean up in CA?

ABC News reports, under the age of thirty voters are overwhelmingly for Obama.

Sure.

Who wants to vote for their mom?

Sorry, I’m getting a little punchy. Way past my bedtime.

More Updates

Clinton: New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Missouri, Oklahoma, and Tennessee

Obama: Illinois, Georgia, and Delaware, Alabama

No change in California numbers- Clinton still up in exit polls by 5%.

Frighteningly, Huckabee is sweeping the south. Romney spent all the money, Huckabee gets all the votes.

Numbers Update

California looms large, a big unknown.

Connecticut is moving towards Obama.

Clinton is way ahead in Missouri.

Sweet Jesus, pass me some valium!

Number Update

Clinton wins American Somoa.

Clinton up by one point in NJ.

In New England, including my home state of MA, 1 in 4 voters were influenced by Kennedy's endorsement of Obama.

However, people making their mind up today -- went for Clinton.

Update of Poll Numbers

So Far...

Arizona: Clinton 47 Obama 47

California: Clinton 50 Obama 45

Georgia: already called for Obama

Illinois: already called for Obama

Massachusetts: Clinton 48 Obama 48

Missouri: Clinton 49 Obama 48

New York: Clinton 56 Obama 41

Tennessee: Clinton 51 Obama 49

Take it all with a grain of salt, people.

Clinton Key in LGBT Massachusetts Win

Super Tuesday is here and LGBT voters across the country are asking, Why won't Clinton or Obama just say they support our rights, clearly, without hesitation, without disclaimers? Why all the wordsmithing?

With a media that will spend days parsing on the color of your pantsuit or the timbre of your laugh - to delicately and cautiously wordsmith is a political reality.

There is, however, a distinct difference in the two candidates and their efforts for the LGBT community. I’m going to vote for with the one who has delivered and who I believe will continue to deliver.

In June 2007, Massachusetts was faced with an anti-gay, anti-marriage equality measure at the Constitutional Convention that would have ripped the state apart. Not only the state, but also it would have set the tone for all marriage equality fights across the country.

Senator Clinton’s campaign manager, Terry McAuliffe, made quiet calls to state legislators to vote down the initiative, according an anonymous source in a key role in the efforts to secure marriage equality in Massachusetts.

Senator Obama? Nothing. Not a word. Not a call. Not one.

In fact, Senator Obama invited to his stage Donny McClurkin, a rabid homophobic gospel singer . He has garnered the support of yet another anti-gay pastor Reverend Kirby Caldwell.

Imagine what would happen to Clinton had she stood on stage, clapping and singing, with a white evangelical who believed Jews should burn in hell.

I was asked today what is the single most important issue for me. I can't say one with out the others. How do you choose between the war, a women's right to choose, healthcare because it is about individuals and it is about American businesses competing on a global stage and public education and someone giving a damn about it, funding it, and staying on top of it.

And I want marriage equality, repeal of Don’t Ask Don’t Tell, a fully inclusive Employment Non-Discrimination Act. I want to be recognized as a full citizen with the same rights as every heterosexual.

Clinton, in my opinion, has already started the work. She’s already working behind the scenes to make important votes happen.

Senator Clinton and Senator Obama have come out against gay marriage. Both have said they would not support federal recognition of gay marriages.

Both have written to the LGBT community asking for their support.

Wordsmithing is a political reality. Actions, in my opinion, speak louder than words. Last June when we were struggling to keep marriage equality in the state of Massachusetts? Clinton’s campaign manager Terry McAuliffe made phone calls.

I’m voting for the one who helped deliver a key victory in LGBT history.

I’m voting for Senator Clinton.

Six Random Things...

Okay, (no subject), I'll play...

Six random things about me?

1. I've had two close calls with lice in my family since Christmas eve- and never before in the 12 years I've had kids.

Just thinking about it makes me itch. But no, we've been lucky so far.

2. I love playing video games. I've been playing since Pong, and I'm good. A secret indulgence of Jeanine and I is to play Zelda, Metroid Prime, or something along those lines.

For hours.

3. I hate clutter, mess AND I am one of the least organized people in the whole world. How does my house stay clean? Open the cabinet doors and all shall be revealed.

4. I love Stickley furniture. Arts and Crafts, woods, beautifully crafted... love it.

5. I love to fly. I must have the window seat so I can press my face against the window and watch the clouds or the landscape. While airport security now is miserable, tickets outrageously expensive (or it is that I have to buy five?), once I'm on the plane, I love it.

6. In my briefcase, I always have peppermint gum, hair ties, pens, loose change and tampons. Okay, that's boring but it is random.

But I'm not going to pass it on to anyone else, just as I never pass on any chain mails, or anything like that.

And the Next Contest is...

I am in such a bad mood today.

My team lost. They looked terrible. Can someone tell me what Matt Light was doing all week because clearly, he wasn't practicing. Nor was any of the front line.

I'm looking at all the polls and discussion and I'm seriously worried Clinton is not going to win tomorrow.

I'm suppose to go watch returns at a friend's house. She's supporting Obama. I don't think I can take it.

The football game means little. Sure, I wish they had won but it's only a game. Besides, I'm a Red Sox fan- I'm used to shrugging and saying, There's always next year.

The primary elections mean a lot more to me. It's about fixing a broken health care system. It's about ending a war and repairing international relationships. It's about getting out of debt and getting our economy online again. It's about public education and repairing the damage No Child Left Behind created on a national level. It's about the environment and our lack of signing a single treaty during the Bush years that would hold American industry accountable at the same level as the rest of the industrialized world.

It's about my country.

I do not believe we can survive another four years of a failed war.

If Obama wins, can he win a national election? He's a beautiful man with pretty words but is that enough?

I don't know.

Mr. McCain and the Keating Five

Remember the Keating Five? The collapse of most of the Savings and Loans institutions in the late 80's?

I do.

I'm surprised Mr. Straight Talk Express doesn't talk straight about his involvement. His rebuke by the Senate Ethics committee.

I Don't Know What's Worse...

Having to call the Giants Fan I taunted all week and take my lumps, which won't be lumps because she of course is gracious and will be a gracious winner which is even worse...

Having my team lose and winning the pool with the final score...

How much my head hurts right now...

Superbowl Commerical Sneak Preview

Don't tell Allan we're sneaking a peek at a Superbowl Ad.



Silence will still be required tonight...

Mr. Straight Talker, Double Talks Away

My wife is terrified McCain can beat Obama. Experience, she said, will play a key role.

I said, Don't worry. McCain has so double talked himself into a frenzy, there is no way he'll win.

Case in point: did you know McCain was for gay marriage? Watch the video. He's says it. Not me.

Party Preparations

Every year, we have a Superbowl party. Fifty women, men and children.

Last year, faced with the defeat of our beloved Patriots, we played dress up. Everyone came as a superhero of some sort.

Yes, that's a link so you don't even have to go scrolling through the archives.

Jeanine and I do love to have a party. My sister said to me yesterday, you all will use any reason to have a party. Dress up. Goof around.

Yup.

Another friend asked me, How many times a week do you all have people over?

Um... on average, twice a week?

I had mentioned some might be coming with body paint. Hey, it's the Patriots, history on the line. No superheros, just Patriots garb. I almost bought jersey's for the dogs.

Oh, yes, Heidi, we're going to get some face paint, too.

Which reminds me, I must buy some tissues for my friend Tibbetts. A life long Giants fan, I know she's going to be crying tomorrow night.

Cleaning, shopping and cooking today. Enchiladas, munchies, and Walter's famous ribs. Wine, beer and Margaritas- Aunt Diane's special recipe.

Red, white and blue carnations. Yeah, right. Fat chance a carnation ever gets through my front door.

Everyone brings food. The living room is rearranged into stadium seating for the adults. The kids get the back room. An extra flat screen is brought into the dining room so no one getting food misses a play.

Or a commercial. Allan requires silence during commercials. Sometimes, it's the best part of the game.

At halftime, most parents with small children leave. The die hards stay on to watch to the bitter end.

My boys know the routine. Ben said to me last night, So you'll be hyper tomorrow and REALLY hyper by Sunday.

Pretty much, I agreed. I love getting ready. I love putting the food in dishes, arranging the tables, thinking about how all the flavors will work together. What kind of wine? A Syrah to stand spice to spice with the ribs? A rustic Chianti, full of it's own loud fruit and tannins? Or a Chateauneuf-du-Pape that will have both?

Oh, yeah, and I guess I have to buy some white wine, too.

I do love having parties. My sister is right. Any reason, any time.

The "Straight Talker"

While some in the press may categorize last night's debate as a "love fest," I can only say, I'm so grateful.

Because this is what we're up against.

Avatar Invite Mess

Ever hear of Avatar the Last Airbender?

If you are in Jeanine's email address book you will soon enough. Young Ben sent out an invitation for you all to join him in online to chat about it.

My half my hair just turned gray.

Seems young Ben found a way around the settings on the Mac to boot up Soft Windows. And in Soft Windows, there were no control settings.

Smart boy, to be sure.

A smart boy in big, big trouble.

Jeanine is trying to asses the damage- at this point it seems only her address book was accessed. All her work contacts- I'm sure John Sayles will be very excited to chat with Ben. And Roger Brown, the President of the College.

Oops. There goes the other half. Completely gray.