Life Of Bob

Quartered And Dimed In NYC

2008-05-22T15:25:00.002-04:00

The price of everything has gone up in the past few months. Juice, bread, milk, drop off laundry service and even baked goods at the coffee cart in front of my building. And I won’t even get started on the ridiculous prices I pay for lunch everyday. Yes, the price of just about everything imaginable has gone up except for my salary that is. It used to cost .80 cents for each pound of laundry I drop off. This morning, when I dropped my clothes off - I wasn’t shocked but not too pleased when I discovered that it just went up by a dime to .90 cents - a modest but slightly painful 13% increase. Then I go to work and proceed to buy my sugar bomb aka cinnamon bun as usual. But as I was about to place my crumpled dollar bill on the counter, the guy says – “That’ll be $1.25”. What! This, I was truly upset about – you’ve got to be kidding me. Now granted .25 cents or a quarter in itself isn’t a big deal but in percentage terms, it’s a whopping 25% increase in price. Now I understand the laundry lady and the doughnut dude has got to eat – BUT SO DOES BOB! I am not The Donald or some hot-shot investment banker – I’m just regular ol’ Bob in NYC dang it.

So bossman, you know who you are – if you are reading this, which you are probably not, but if you are and if you have any decency or sympathy at all for the residents of New York City – please heed my request. Greedy I am not but I seriously need a bigger raise this year! Otherwise, not only you but more importantly everyone in the city – will have to put up with a Bob who either re-wears his boxers more than once a day or goes completely commando! The choice is up to you big guy because God, Buddha or Allah forbid I have to do my own laundry like most residents of NYC. Nor am I ready to give up my morning treats either so - something has got to give. Because in the end – yummy cinnamonny-sugary goodness wins over clean underwear every day of the week.

Bahama But No Mammas

2006-06-14T22:23:00.000-04:00

First I would like to dispel all rumors that Bob died of hypothermia by attempting to join the 2006 class of the Polar Bears Club. As you can read Bob is still alive and kicking. It has been a long half year so far my friends - my old job was beginning to just drain my energy due to all the recent attrition and dumping of more work on me. But I got some good news for you - I have just recently started a new job at a very high falutin’ publishing house which will remain nameless at the moment. It is one of the most well known and highly coveted companies to work for in NYC. I hope this new job will be much more exciting and fun. It was on my list of the top five places I wanted to work for – so you go Bob!

But before I started this week – I decided Bob deserved a much needed and long overdue vacation. So off to The Bahamas I went. It was very nice, warm and relaxing. Despite all the disbelief among my family and friends - I did go alone. Sure the Bahamas is not a place that most people go alone but that doesn’t mean that nobody ever does it. It was just nice not to worry if the other party is having fun, hungry, or tired. It was just me, myself and I. Even my mother wanted to come – but I think no man my age should have to see his mother in a bikini – so I kindly rejected her offer to keep me company. Also,despite a very friendly barista at Starbucks - there were no Bahama Mammas to be had. Which was a good thing regarding the former and an oh-well for the latter. So I just basically sat on my kiester and sipped frozen daiquiris on the beach for two days while soaking in the sun and swimming in the nice warm Caribbean waters by day. And spent my nights generously giving away my money to the very nice dealers at the Palace Casino. But all in all I had a great time. I mean what was there not to like – being in the Bahamas, nice consistent showers that did not scald you one second and cause shrinkage to Bob’s boys the next and 30 channels of cable TV. Seriously what was there not to like right? Well maybe a latter Bahama Mamma would have been nice....

Just Another Typical Sunday Afternoon

2006-01-09T16:40:00.000-05:00

Well, it was just your average Sunday for me again...well almost. It did start off like any other Sunday - I met a friend at Starbucks to get a nice hot latte and apple fritter to start off my morning. Then from there the surprises started to take form - we exited the store to have our very own private Lincoln Town car waiting for us. The driver greeted us and wisked us away from Manhattan into New Jersey to see...the NFC WildCard Playoff game between the Giants and Panthers. He dropped us off in front of the stadium and we proceeded to make our way through a series of elevators and hallways to reach our highly guarded luxury suite to watch the game in the comfy climate controlled envirornment. Once inside the luxury box, we staked our claim to seats right in front of the glass enclosure and then methodically started to sample every scrumptious item being kept warm inside the nice silver platters. We stuffed ourselves with sodas, beer, chips & dip, spicy buffalo wings, giant sized chili dogs, cheeseburgers with all the fixings, country fried chicken, fresh fruit and of course two types of ice cream cookie sandwiches. The only thing missing were the Tums.

Although the game turned out to be a stinker with the Panthers winning 23-0, the experience itself was nothing like the outcome of the game. After the final seconds ticked off the clock, we managed to roll ourselves out and were picked up at the stadium to be chauffeured back to my friend's apartment. I guy can sure get used to this door to door service treatment. I guess Bob kinda knows what it feels like to be a poorer Donald Trump now - and it was tres tres nice I have to admit. Well, a special thanks to my friend Sam for arranging this and of course inviting me to the game. If you keep this up my friend, all I have to say is...in the words of The Donald - "You're Hired".

Ohhh Carol...

2005-12-05T17:07:00.000-05:00

Last week I got word that an old friend was back in NYC. Although we kind of met by accident, I was immediately smitten with Carol the first time I saw her. When we met, she told me she was here on business and would leave after a few weeks. Knowing all of this I tried not getting too close, but in the end I could not resist her allure and charisma. She had the rare combination of being so playful yet so elegant and charming at the same time. She would always have a twinkle about her and just light up everything around her whenever she was present and always brought a silly smile to my face.

So when I heard she was back in town – I just had to see her again and we arranged to meet up on Saturday night. As I was exiting the subway station – the cold air woke me from my daydreams of yesteryear of spending time with her and I noticed myself actually getting a little nervous and apprehensive. I had so many questions running through my mind. “Would she still look the same or would she be even more stunning? Would she even remember me and would she even feel the same way towards me.” So at the appointed time and place, we finally saw each other again after nearly a year. I was quiet but had a large grin on my face as usual and there she was. Not only was she what I remembered, but dare I say even more radiant and mesmerizing. She held me captive from the first toll of the bell toll to the last – yes finally...my Carol Of The Bells started to play and my beloved Snowflake show was back. She was just so amazing - sparkling and dancing across the building façade with such grace and beauty. I oooohhed and aaaahhed for 3 shows and called it a night – till next time my dear…till next time…which is probably tomorrow.

Guess What Time It Is?

2005-11-30T16:32:00.000-05:00

That's right boys and girls - it is that time of year again...Today is the lighting of the Christmas Tree at Rockefeller Center. And with the lighting of the tree - comes what else...Something that I...ahem...WE all have been waiting for all year long since that very very sad sad sad day in early January 2005. Yes - tonight will be the start of OUR beloved SnowFlake Show!!!! Yippee!!!! So if there are any visitors coming to NYC this month - be sure to stop by for one or two or 1,425,285 shows. Ding-da-da-Ding...Ding-da-da-Ding...

A Number Other Than #1

2005-10-25T16:48:00.000-04:00

For the last few months I have been able to - not necessary hijack – but obtain wireless internet signals floating around my apartment. However, due to all the recent rain storms we had here in NYC – this caused procuring a wireless signal very difficult. So therefore I decided to bite the bullet and sign up for cable internet service legally once and for all.

The internet company gave me a 4 hour window for the installation guy to come and wouldn’t you know it – he showed up 3 ½ hours later. Once he arrived and started to do his thing - being the nice guy that I am – I thought I would offer him a drink. He kindly refused a drink but did ask if he could use the bathroom. I said sure no problem – to which he replied “Thanks – I just had a huuuuge dinner”. At this point I am thinking – okay maybe he refused the drink because he had lots to drink at his huuuuge dinner and only need to do a #1. Well at least that was what I was hoping for. Well – about 15 minutes later – the cable guy comes out and if that wasn’t bad enough that he did some number other than a #1 in my bathroom – he leaves the door wide open. I was like – “Oh dear God!” and tried to inhale as many deep breaths as I could before the air in the bathroom would waft through to where I was. But does this story stop here my friends – of course not! As I said, after doing some number other than #1 and leaving the door wide open – he proceeds to walk towards me and did NOT wash his hands. I am thinking to myself - “Ewwwwww – no he just did not just walk out and not wash up!!!” He then fumbles through all the paperwork – signs a few documents. And at this point I am thinking I am not touching that pen – so I casually walk to my bookshelf while holding my breath to grab a pen without him noticing. He then hands me the paperwork which I sign with my clean pen and hope that all the connections have already been made and that we are done without me having to touch anything else from him. But then my fear came true, he said – “I need to grab your laptop to make some setting changes”. I was like NO!!! – I hesitated and tried to think of how I could get out of this but in the end I had no choice but to hand it over. So he then proceeded to touched and use every key on my keyboard – Twice - just for fun I think. He completed testing all the equipment and when everything worked - I took back the laptop, walked him to the door and said thank you. And yes – you better believe I Lysol-ed every millimeter and surface of my laptop. I also nearly fainted from all the fumes but I think the laptop is safe to use once again. So in summary, I don’t think Bob will be nice enough to offer any drinks to the next service person that comes.

Things To Do

2005-10-06T15:54:00.000-04:00

Lately I've been talking quite a bit to a coworker who is running in the NYC marathon next month. All this talk has really made me want to participate in next year's race - however you've got to either qualify or get lucky and win a spot through the lottery. This has made me think about some of the other things I also want to do while I am still in New York. Besides trying to get in for the 2006 NYC Marathon - I am gonna try and see if I have what it takes to join the Polar Bear Club this January 1st. This is something that has piqued my interest ever since I moved here but have never tried. On the first day of every year - a group of crazy nuts gather at the Coney Island Boardwalk and take a plunge in the icy waters of the North Atlantic Ocean. There's not a hard and fast rule of how deep one must go in - just as long as you frollick in the water that should be good enough I think. So Bob will probably go at least knee deep - may go a little deeper but I got to be careful not to damage any "goods" either. Also since we are talking about New Years - I still have to make it into the middle of Times Square for the Ball Drop. I just befriended a guy who has connections at a hotel located in Times Square - so with these special passes I will be able to walk into Times Square at around 9pm or 10pm instead of 4pm like the rest of the losers standing out there for 8 hours without any bathroom breaks.

So there you have it - any takers out there - I really need a partner for the Polar Bear Club - let me know and we can start training soon. I figure there are two ways to train for this - you either start eating tons and tons of rich and fatty foods so that we can form a nice and thick layer of blubber to protect us from the shock of the freezing waters or start taking only cold showers from now until the big day. My plan is to party it up from now until New Years - eat drink and be merry - enjoy the ball drop - test out my new layer of blubber the next day and then burn it all off a few months later in the marathon. Now does that sound like a great plan or what.

Don't Worry...Be Clammy

2005-09-14T15:41:00.000-04:00

I was talking to a coworker yesterday and she said "I am happy as a clam." So that made me wonder - "What does it mean to be happy as a clam"? I mean what is it about a clam that makes them sooo happy? Is it because clams are constantly in a state of perpetual bliss? Or maybe is it because clams lead a simple life and that they are just happy go lucky all the time? And another question that should not be overlooked is - what about the other species in the mollusks family - do they not deserve to be happy too? Just what is so special about clams that allows them to be happy and not other mollusks. Does anybody know - anyone...anyone? Well lucky for you Bob does...But before we can get to the explanation we must take a step back and look at the saying in it's entirety. The whole saying is actually "Happy as a clam during high tide". I suppose this makes more sense. There are actually two reasons why a clam would be happy during high tide. First, people can only get the clams when the water is low and this makes it difficult when the tide is in or the water is high. Second, during high tide, there is plenty of plankton and veggie particles flowing through the water and this provides sustenance and hence makes them very happy and mighty plump too I might add. So that answers the why are they happy part but not the why only a clam part. I figure "Happy as a scallop" or "Happy as a mussel" just somehow didn't quite have the same ring to it and also just my guess here...but I suppose clams live in more shallow water than the other species of mollusks. So there you have it. Now the next time someone says they are happy as a clam - you can ask them if they really know what makes a clam happy and if they don't - then you can enhance their knowledge of the true meaning of this phrase...ahem...as I have yours.

But before I go - a special thanks to a corn lovin' friend who turn me to the new craze that is sweeping NYC - Sudoku. It started to get popular in Japan a few years ago and then recently in the UK. These puzzles seem to be all the rage here and are very addictive and fun too.

Speaking of being addictive, I would also like to give another special thanks to my dear friend up north Double D for the wonderful and yummy long promised Canadian delicacy - Nanaimo bars. I have to say mmm...mmm...good and "About Time".

With that being said, I suppose - I too...am happy as a clam!

Bob a.k.a The Banana Guy

2005-08-31T15:53:00.000-04:00

Having lived here for the last 2 years - I've slowly acclimated to becoming a transplanted New Yorker such as: learning to avoid empty subway cars no matter how tempting, referring to directions as uptown/downtown and cross-town instead of north/south and east/west, knowing what a "regular coffee" is, eating meals out of push carts without fear, and knowing which subway car to get onto so that I can be right at the stairway when I get off. But now I think my transformation of becoming a real New Yorker is finally complete. The final phase of this change started about a month ago and culminated last night. It started a few weeks ago when I was able to broker a deal with the dry cleaning owner near my building. She agreed to give me the "neighborhood discount" on both my dry cleaning and laundry. Also, in the last couple of weeks, I started buying fruit from the local fruit stand guy instead of my way overprice neighborhood grocery store. One night last week I came by to get my usual bananas and when I got there he said - "Hey it's the Banana Guy". So we chatted for a bit and since he was out of bananas he offered me a free peach and some nectarines. As much as I like free - I couldn't just take a man's livelihood like that so I paid for the nectarines. So now I have a friendly relationship with the fruit guy as well. Then last night the final event took place. I was walking home and came across some furniture that was sitting on the curb. I glanced over it and saw a nice little entertainment center/table that would be great as an end table in my apartment. So after dragging it up 5 flights of stairs - it is now sitting nicely in the corner of my living room. Everybody knows that you can't really call yourself a New Yorker unless you've furnished your apartment with at least one item you found on the streets. As someone once said "Once a cucumber has been pickled - it can never become a cucumber again". So I guess it's official - Yep, Bob the Banana Guy is now a pickle.

And now - I am off to go to the U.S Open to sit in a fancy suite at Arthur Ashe Stadium with food and drinks watching #8 seeded Serena Williams in the ladies match and #2 seeded Rafael Nadal in the men's match. Ahhh life is good as a pickle.

I Feel Good

2005-08-12T13:51:00.000-04:00

What a crazy few last weeks my friends. Work has been very busy, yes believe it or not I do actually work and am not always out and about this great city all the time. Rent, pastries, dumplings, C-Town hair cuts and everything else has to be paid for you know. And since there are no Sugar Mommas left - somebody has got to pay for it. However, I am accepting applications for all those who are interested. But the weekend is upon us and I feel good like the dancing Elmo.

Tonight my friend got tickets to go see the Jets play – it is a only a preseason game but nothing beats getting a hot dog and beer at a sporting event. Then on Sunday – I am hoping to meet up with some friends of mine – Phil, Vijay and Tiger. Yep – that is right we will be going to The PGA Championship in NJ. This will be the last golf major of the year and we will be chilling in our corporate hospitality tent sipping on fruity drinks and nibbling on goodies all afternoon. Not to bad of a life I suppose – can’t really complain. Life is good - I’ve still got my health, a job, place to sleep at night and a big round belly.

Also – for those of you looking for a good book to read – go out and get The Kite Runner. I am 2/3 of the way through and so far it is one of the best books I have read. Much better than my previous favorite literary classic - Harry Potter. This book will make you laugh, cry and then cry some more – ahem…well at least that is what I have heard other people do. Contrary to popular belief – Bob can be very sensitive and in touch with his feelings and does have a softer side you know.

So enjoy your weekend and be safe my friends because I know I will. I'm off to C-Town for a haircut and my head massage/mini-facial. Aaahhh - Life is good. As my good friend Don once said – "Take care and be happy".

Bob's Bridge

2005-07-28T14:44:00.000-04:00

On the subway this morning I witness two grown ladies arguing and calling each other nasty names as they were boarding the train. Didn't know what happened or why they were arguing but it was a little disturbing to see professional grown women doing this. Now if it was two guys - it would be nothing new or unusual - because we are guys and we can be uncivilized at times. This just got me to thinking about women and just how complicated and confusing they can be. And so it reminded me of a little joke told to me by an uncle of mine who is currently visiting the big apple for the first time. My apologies if you have heard it before but it is worth hearing again.

So here goes....

Bob was sitting on the beach looking westward into the horizon and let out a huge dejected sigh. All of a sudden a loud voice comes down from the heavens and says..."Bob - This is God here...why are you so sad and gloom my son". Bob answers "God...I love the beach and I hear Hawaii has some of the best on earth. However, I get motion sickness very easily and can't fly or take a cruise out there. My only option is to drive and as you can see - Hawaii is a long way from here and there are no bridges". God then says..."I see...since you have been such a faithful and dedicated servant - I will grant you one wish". Excitedly Bob immediately answers "That is awesome God...if you could build me a bridge from here to Hawaii - I can drive myself there and I will be forever grateful to you". God replies "Well - Bob...you see...the problem is this. Not that I mind or anything but building the bridge is too easy...I need you to think of something that is much more impressive and difficult so that it will not only glorify me but when people see it their response will be - That could only be possible by the hand of God".

So after thinking for a bit - Bob then says "Okay God...I got one for you...I've never had much luck with the ladies. I've never been able to say or do the right things when I am around them. I want to know how they feel inside, and what they're thinking when they give me the silent treatment. I want to know why they're crying. I want to know what they really mean when they say 'nothing'. So this is my wish...I want you to grant me the wisdom to decode their messages and to understand women once and for all God". After a few moments of silence...God suddenly booms downward..."So - Bob - would you like two or four lanes for your bridge?"

Open Up And Say...Oohhhh

2005-07-25T17:08:00.000-04:00

I went to a new dentist today for a routine teeth cleaning and met a very nice Russian hygienist by the name of Natasha. I've had a few oral hygienist over the years but this one by far is one of the best. She was very thorough and it looked like she really enjoys her job - actually it looked like she enjoyed her job a little too much. She was scraping and probing with so much gusto and dedication I didn't know if I should leave a tip when I was done. Most hygienists that I have had in the past just sat in their chair to do their work. But not Natasha - she started sitting down but actually got up and stood to the side and even behind my head at one point. For a moment, she was so deep into my mouth I think she had her elbow in there. As rough and forceful as she was, the ending was what really made her stand out. As she was wrapping up and I was prying my nails out of the armrest - she surprised me by dabbing my parched lips with a nice wet towelette - she just did it in such a caring and gentle manner that it made me almost blush. I was not only impressed but even had a little smile on my face as she did this. Very nice touch. As I was leaving I was thinking - although I was grateful for the great cleaning - I somehow felt that she should have been the one paying me for her services instead of the other way around. But nonetheless you bet I've already got my next appointment scheduled and I'm thinking about not flossing for a week before my appointment as a little gift to her. See you bright and early in six months Natasha....

I'll Take Whatever I Can Get

2005-07-20T17:15:00.000-04:00

Yesterday - I went on a grueling 4 mile run and since it was very hot and muggy and hoping to get a nice breeze, I decided to go running on the West Side Highway trail instead of the Brooklyn Bridge route. It is actually quite a scenic route running along the Hudson with New Jersey across the river and a great view of the Statue of Liberty. I've jogged this route a few times before but yesterday was a bit more memorable.

Seems like I had a few admirers yesterday. A few minutes into my run I passed a walker and the person responded with a surprising "Mmmm Mmmm...that's right...that's right - kick those legs - you go boy". Of course I turned around and was going to smile back only to notice it was a MAN! Nonetheless as strange as it sounds, the compliment did give me a little boost and I straighten up my posture and kicked my legs a little higher just for him. After awhile the humidity was getting to me and I was just trying to focus on the person coming towards me to keep me orientated and from fainting as well. However, I guess I kept the gaze a bit too long because as this person was passing me - they gave me a nice big, long smile followed by a friendly wave. But the only problem was - once again it as another GUY. I guessed my sustained gazed gave him the wrong impression. A little while after that - another runner passed me and I noticed HE turned around and started jogging towards me. Now I don't know if this was his halfway point to turn back or not...but I didn't want to take any chances and figured this would be a great time for my sprinting workout. So off I went as fast as I could. Conversely, I also noticed a few times when women were running towards me, but as they got closer - for some reason - they either sped up and blew right by me or they turned around and ran the other way. The naive person in me just thought..."hmmm...they must be speeding up because it just happens to be the sprinting portion of their run or they have reached their half-way point and is just simply turning around". Don't know if something was in the muggy air today or maybe...just maybe...it was my really really short and I do mean short speedo running shorts that I had on - for all the interesting encounters I had. Not quite sure though. Well in any case - whether it be from guys or not - I guess I will take any and all the attention I can get.

I maybe planning on running again tonight. It is suppose to be hot and muggy again...so hmmm...Do you think I should go shirtless on my jog today?

Feel The Beat From The Tamborine

2005-07-18T16:52:00.000-04:00

Last night I was fortunate enough to be treated with tickets to a great musical by a friend. The Broadway scene in NYC definitely has a The Winner Takes It All mentality - because there so many shows out there vying for your attention. And this is one of the great ones out there currently. Knowing Me and Knowing You - my faithful audience, I think you will like this show. Surprisingly - during alot of the songs - most of the crowd was dancing in their seats and got quite into it. There was not only a Dancing Queen or two on stage but in the audience as well. The show was so fast-paced it felt as if the sands of time was Slipping Through My Fingers. We also got treated to a rowdy mini-concert afterwards. The cast members got dressed in disco costumes and re-performed some of the songs again at this S.O.S. (sold out show). I won't mention who - but at least One Of Us sure showed off some fancy moves during the finale. Sure, this show may be a little pricey and cost some Money, Money, Money - but it is well worth it. So go ahead and Take a Chance On Me and my review and go see this show. Once you have seen it you will definitely want to Lay All Your Love On Me for recommending it - but that won't be necessary....So if you are ever in town - check out - Mamma Mia! A fun and lively play about - A mother. A daughter. 3 possible dads. And a trip down the aisle you'll never forget. All set to the mesmorizing, head-bobbing, arms-waving, toe-tapping music of ABBA.

You Always Remember The First Time

2005-07-14T16:53:00.000-04:00

Feeling a little exhausted this week and also in trying to pamper myself more – I decide it was time to give Holly a visit. The last time I went there, my regular hair stylist was not in – so I decided to go home because I have tried the other stylist there several times and each time I left looking like a five year old kid. Dejected, I decided to leave and come back another day. But on the way back to the subway I just happened to stumble onto another salon. Feeling a wee bit adventurous and the fact that my hair was getting very bushy – I decided “Why not – it is only hair and it will grow back – so what the heck!” Well, I have to admit – this place was amazing. The head massage attendants were very young, attractive and “skilled”. The girl I had wasted no time in getting me comfortable and relaxed. She must have spent at least 20 minutes massaging, scratching, squeezing, rubbing and teasing my scalp and shoulders. We then headed to the wash sink to rinse out the shampoo and – to my utter surprise and satisfaction – she began to give me a mini-facial. She applied some cream and gently massaged my face for a good five minutes before putting a nice warm towel over my face. 30 minutes into this “experience” I thought my hair cut would then commence. But once again – to my surprise and satisfaction – she walked me back to my chair and proceeded to give me a shoulder and upper back massage for another 10 minutes. At this point I could have paid my bill and left a very happy man. But there was still the haircut. I had a decent cut from a male stylist there but for some reason – I don’t remember much about it.

So today I was torn when I decided to go get my haircut. Do I go back to Holly or Ms. X? I was leaning towards Ms. X, but when it was time to enter the salon, I just couldn’t do it. The pang of betrayal and dishonesty hit me and my conscience got the better part of my desires. Yes, Ms. X may be more attractive, younger, energetic and has more diverse skills - but I would never be able to go back to Holly in the future and look at her the same again if I skipped out on her twice. So as Holly was plying her trade on my scalp, it somehow just felt right. Sure it could have been more enjoyable elsewhere but for some reason, whether it be nostalgia or loyalty – you can never forget the memories of the very first time.

Dinner With A View

2005-07-11T16:56:00.000-04:00

The other day after coming back from a jog in CP my friend and I saw a little gathering around a window looking into a fancy midtown restaurant. People were pointing, laughing and snapping pictures with their phones & cameras. So being of the curious type, we too clamored to see what the big fuss was. My first thought was, "Oh maybe it is some big celebrity having dinner - I just hope it's not Mathew Perry". But to my surprise it was not a celebrity at all. It was as strange a sight as I have seen in quite awhile and I have seen my fair share in this city my friends. What everyone was gawking at was a man - fully naked - sitting on top of a bed in the corner of this restaurant. He was sipping on a glass of wine talking to a woman who was was thankfully clothed. That in of itself wouldn't be too strange I suppose - but the odd thing was - just a few feet away - there were people dressed in suites and dresses dining on their gourmet entrees nonchalantly as if this was normal and most of all sanitary. My first reaction was "Ewww...." and then my second reaction was a shudder and a double "Ewwww...." I don't know about you, but I don't know if I would have much of an appetite with a naked, chubby, old and wrinkled gentleman not only in view but within spitting distance as well. Good thing he wasn't having any soup I suppose.

I have no idea what the concept was but I didn't want to stick around to find out either. I hope this image has been engrained in your memory as it has mine when you are dining tonight - Bon Appetit.

Manis, Pedis and Smileys

2005-07-05T16:58:00.000-04:00

Sorry for the long pause between updates. Just been busy with work and a thing called life that cuts out on blogging time I suppose.So - shall we begin. This past week my friend from IN came up for a visit. Got to hang out for a bit and ate at Arturo's Pizza right by my apartment. I have to say, while it is no Grimaldi's - it definitely is one of the top places in the city. As for this weekend, a friend treated me to my very first manicure and pedicure. And I am definitely not ashamed to admit that it was actually quite nice. I need a little pampering too you know. Life in the Big Apple can be hard and getting tended to hand and foot(sorry about the pun, but couldn't help myself) was very nice and relaxing. And besides my toes have never looked better - the gloss really brings out the nice tone of my skin. Who knows...I just may have to make a return visit in a few weeks or ahem...tomorrow maybe. Never new it can be so addictive.

Then last night, I went to Battery Park with some friends for a nice little dinner picnic to check out the 4th of July fireworks extravaganza. This is the second grandest show in the history of NYC - only the one in 2000 was bigger. I guess they are trying to impress the Olympic Committee. It was very picturesque with the fireworks going off behind the Statue of Liberty. My favorites were the big smiley face ones - that made not only me and the crowd - well okay me and all the seven year olds and younger - oh and ah each time one was displayed in the sky. How can you go wrong with great weather, food and smiley faces. The only bad thing was the hordes of people leaving at the subway after the show but very nice evening overall.

Iron Chef Wannabes

2005-06-16T16:53:00.000-04:00

Thank goodness the weather has finally cooled down a bit. It has been unseasonably warm up here the last two weeks. I read somewhere there were only 2 days over 90 last summer. We already had 2 this week and there is no such thing as central air here - unless you live in a new high rise.

Last night I went with a friend to a fancy corporate function where about 20 of us donned our chef's hat and apron to cook a 3 course meal at the New York Culinary Institute. We had a little mixer with some drinks and hors devours to start, then it was off to the kitchen to cook up a feast. Most of the stuff was all laid out for us and all we had to do was cut, chop, mix, pound, grill and sauté away. Our group was responsible for doing the 3 part appetizer which was very simple yet exquisite. We were served by a full staff and the menu for the evening was: grilled steak on a bed of arugula with a vinaigrette as an appetizer(we were responsible for this - and of course everyone loved this the most). The main course was chicken paillard, swiss chards, oven roasted potatoes all topped with a nice creamy pesto sauce. And finally for dessert, we had a chocolate layered cake stuffed with fresh berries. All in all a great meal and now it is off to CP for a much needed 4 mile run.

1st Celebrity Sighting

2005-06-09T16:06:00.000-04:00

I am so elated I just had my first celebrity sighting and only a block away from my apartment to boot. Now I have seen a few reality tv contestants and some tv actors but never a real bona fide celebrity. After work I went running in CP again and I was on my way home I walked pass this group standing outside a restaurant on the sidewalk. I just happened to glance at this white hair gentleman. Normally when it is dark and late at night I just look ahead and mind my own business but for some reason I just looked in his direction. After I passed him it hit me that "Hey that was Richard Gere". In my disbelief I turned around to take a second look - sure enough that was him. I wanted to back track and say hi, but it seemed he was having a very intimate conversation with his group. I've always hear people saying they saw so and so and I never have anything to add - so finally after 18 months in NYC - now I can join in on all the reindeer games - yeah!!!

Just Call Me Honey

2005-06-08T16:31:00.000-04:00

Last night some friends and I went to the annual Museum Mile Festival. This is where all the museums on Fifth Avenue from 82nd to 102nd have free admission with street performers and music on the streets. By the time we got there it was kinda late so we did not get to go inside the one museum I wanted to visit – The Met. Oh well I guess I can always go on my own one day. So we just loitered around checking out all the performers and listening to music.

Today for lunch I went to Honey’s. Well it really isn’t called that. No one here really knows what it is called. It doesn’t even have a sign – just a little chalkboard with the fare of the day in Spanish. My coworkers just call it that because the lady always asks “What you want honey?”. I guess it is a saying I am somewhat used to. It is a Mexican restaurant – well I don’t think I can even call it that. The place is smaller than some people’s closet – it just has a counter with maybe 3 stools. She really doesn’t speak English except for her greeting and you just point at the what you want. By the time I came out with my package and yes I am calling it a package because it had to weigh about 5 lbs by the time she plopped on the meat, beans, salad and rice. Now I usually don’t have problems finishing a meal in one sitting, but I had to throw in the towel half way thru and put the leftovers in the fridge. I guess I will be eating it again for dinner tonight. Not too bad for $5 I must say.

Rubbed The Right Way

2005-06-06T15:58:00.000-04:00

On Friday night I met up with the so called blind set-up person. She was a nice lady but for me I really didn't feel a connection with her. Plus she likes Guinness and that right there makes me have second thoughts. Just kidding, I am probably sure she didn't feel any sparks either - so I guess you never know until you try.

Then on Saturday night a friend and I tried out the newest and very muched hyped BBQ joint in NYC - R.U.B. In fact, Leonardo DiCaprio and Giselle dined at this establishment about a month ago. We got the sampler and boy was it good. It was filled with brisket, sausage, ribs, potato salad and fried onion strings. The meats and sauce were quite tasty but our favorite was definitely the sausage - it was magnificent. The both of us are from Texas - so we know what BBQ should taste like and this sausage was slap yo mama good. Then to top it all off we had the only dessert on the menu - Fried Oreos. As strange as this sounded it was really, really good and different.

Moving on to Sunday - the hottest day of the year so far - it was very warm and muggy. I went on a run in CP with my "friend" again. No Herculean effort this time - just a nice 3.2 mile saunter around the reservoir and off to lunch in C-Town. And today at work the CFO took me out to lunch. I just so happen to sit next to him and he invited me to a certain unnamed frequent reader of this blog's favorites - Burritoville. It is always as good as usual and then on the way back - we passed by one of his to die for places - Cupcake Cafe. He insisted on indoctrining me to this establishment and who am I to refuse. The cupcakes were very moist and good much better than the over-hyped Magnolia Bakery. It may just give Bob's Cupcake Emporium a run for it's money.

Correct Assumptions

2005-06-01T16:21:00.000-04:00

I hope everyone had a great Memorial Weekend. I just lounged around, met up with some people and ate alot over the extended weekend. I also received some tickets for an off-broadway play through a friend and so I went with one of my old roommates. It was called Orgasms and was very funny and also for adults only. It just talks about the many inherent differences between men and women starting all the way back from the days of Adam and Eve.

Also - I received a very interesting email yesterday from a female acquaintance I met once a few months ago. She attended a monthly event that I usually attend and she offered to help me in gaining a job at her company. Well it has been about 3 months since I heard from her and she emailed to ask me if her company ever got back with me. Then for the second half of the message - she said "not to be forward" but she is assuming that I am single and that I prefer women - because she has a great friend that she would like to introduce me to. Well - I emailed her back and thanked her for her job search help and that I did find a job. Then to answer her assumptions I wrote - yes I am single and that she is absolutely 100% correct in assuming that BOB DOES INDEED PREFER women. Today I got a response from her with some contact info of her friend - so we shall see my friends...we shall see. Nothing wrong with making a new friend I suppose.

What Was I Thinking?

2005-05-24T16:46:00.000-04:00

Over the weekend some friends and I went to dinner at a interesting Burmese restaurant and then headed over to see the final or 3rd installment - depending on how you see it of Star Wars – Revenge of The Sith. While it was not great – it was good and all the story lines tied together nicely for setting up the original trilogy. Then on Sunday, a friend was having a little get together on Long Island near Jones Beach, so a group of us took the LIRR out there for a day of food, fun and sun. Well unfortunately the weather gods were not with us. So we nixed the beach part but still managed to have a good time because he had a nice big house with a huge deck overlooking the river/canal in the back yard. I took two shifts manning the grill and that brought back some fond memories of cooking up some shish kabobs and chicken back in Texas…ooohh…the memories.

Last night a friend who has been running regularly invited me to join them on a nice run in Central Park. It has been a long time I’ve jogged and so it was nice to get my big butt self out there again. At least that is what I thought anyway. My body is so sore now from the 4+ miles we ran yesterday. We started in Midtown made our way up CP east – did a loop around the reservoir and then jogged back down to 72nd and headed for the nearest Crème-Lita frozen yogurt shop we could find. The Snickers flavored treat was soooo good and best of all fat free – at least that is what they advertise anyway. The counter person gave me kind of a small portion and I said – “I just ran over 4 miles – can you like fill it up a little higher please?”. He laughed and ended up giving me almost double the original amount – yeah!!! I needed a treat for the hard workout I had you know. And now I am paying the price for over exerting myself for the Herculean run I had yesterday as my tush – thighs – toes – and back are cursing me right now. Serves me right I suppose....

Blimpy in NYC

2005-05-19T15:01:00.000-04:00

Today for lunch I went to the falafel place that looks like it is in an abandon building or shipping dock. The place was small but quite busy. I got a pita filled with falafel, hummus, and topped with a cucumber&tomato salsa. It was very good but at the same time not that filling even though it was a very decent size. On the way back to the office and still feeling a little hungry – lo and behold – what was before my eyes – a pizza joint that had .99 slices. So of course I just could not resist. While it was no Ray’s it was definitely better than Tostino’s. I have eaten quite well this week – actually a little too well. I think I need to start looking for one of my favorite Craig’s – and no it is not Craig’s List but Jenny Craig. I may to to start changing my site from Bob in NYC to Blimpy in NYC.

P.S. I will be going to a monthly town hall meeting later today where - according to the email - beer and munchies will be provided. Yippy!!!

Oodles & Oodles of Noodles

2005-05-18T17:10:00.000-04:00

Today for lunch I stopped at a little nice looking asian cafe appropriately called "Asian Cafe". The place was small but looked new and very inviting. The eatery was filled with only Asians and no other ethnicities. To me this means only one thing - well maybe two. That either a) it is really good and authentic or b) it only sold weird stuff that only Asians would eat. Well luckily for me it was the former and not the latter. I got a gigantic nice steaming bowl of noodles with some pork and veggies - all for only $3.95. Wow, what a deal. I also saw on the menu that they had a breakfast special for a 2 egg and ham sandwich for only $1.50 and you get a free cup of coffee too. Tomorrow I am thinking about trying out a falafel place my boss told me about. I walked past it this afternoon. It looks like it is situated deep inside a storage dock in the middle of an abandoned elevator shaft. Only in New York my friends, only in New York. Although I only ate a few hours ago – I am already thinking about my nice hot breakfast sandwich tomorrow morning. With all of these treats so close by – do you think it is okay to ask for a raise only after 3 days at work?

Aloha

2005-05-17T15:37:00.000-04:00

For lunch today - I peruse the block to find something interesting to eat. I happened to cross this Hawaiian joint and recalled that my boss told me yesterday to avoid this place - but since I am a glutton for punishment and since she told me not to go there - of course I just had to go there. In hindsight - maybe I should have listened to her. The food really wasn't that bad - but it really wasn't that good either. And since this isn't like say....Indiana - where they only have about 5 places to choose from - and because I think there are so many other places to try, it is safe to say this will not be one place where a repeat visit is warranted. The only thing that really saved the lunch was on the way back to the office - there was an M&M's promotion going on right in front of my building. They had people there passing out a new candy bar called M-azing. Not a very good name if you ask me though. But what do i know - I went to eat at a place where I was warned not to. Well I am off to make a cup of fancy espresso to eat with my new candy bar now.

The Real World

2005-05-16T17:37:00.000-04:00

Sorry for not updating in awhile. I did not have internet access and I was busy working on my apartment. Well, after a whole lot of scrubbing and cleaning - my apartment is looking great. Now only if I can get some furniture in it. After a horrendous week of Ikea experiences at 3 different stores - my furniture is finally coming this Saturday. I have to say, living in Greenwich Village is so great. No more hour long commutes late at night back to Astoria. Now I am usually home in 15 minutes and maybe 25 at the longest. Haven't met any of my neighbors yet - seems like everyone is coming and going at different times. And the best thing is my commute is 20 minutes max from door to door for work. The only bad thing is it doesn't give me enough time to read my paper on the train before it is time to get off.

And today is my first day at work. It feels weird to be back in the real world and yet nice to get back to some sense of normality of what I was used to. The culture and environment here is so different and nice then the company I used to work for back in Texas. We work from 9 to 6 and get free bagels in the mornings two days of the week, have a fancy coffee machines that makes individual cups with fancy cartridges, and get to go home at 3:00 on fridays in the summer months. And the area is amazing - it is busy and just bustling with people. My group took me to lunch and we walked by several interesting eating establishments. I will give you reviews as I try each one. I will try not to eat at the same place twice so it will be very interesting.

Now that I have internet access again, I will try to update more regularly. Whew...is it time to go home yet - I am tired already.

Bob In The Village

2005-04-29T15:54:00.000-04:00

Greetings - my friends. Today I have a few tidbits of good news to share with you guys. I have decided to accept an offer from Register.com who offered me the job two weeks ago. After going on a few more interviews - I decided that I was ready to get back to work and wanted to work in a new industry - so I will be starting in 2 weeks. Also I have just found an apartment!!! In the last few days - I have been looking at apartments in Manhattan - and boy let me tell you - it is so exhausting. There are so many factors to look at - obviously price, location, size, kitchen counter space, and FEES. These apartment brokers will charge a fee that is 15% of your annual rent. So on a $1,600 apartment they get almost $3,000. Outrageous if you ask me, but of course no one is. The other day I was fortunate to find a gem of a place on the edge of SOHO. And the best part was that it was one of the few that did not have a fee. It was quite spacious relatively speaking of course, full size tub, immaculate and it was on top of a subway stop. There were a few negatives - it was facing busy 6th Ave., the building is on top of a subway stop, and ther is absolutly no counter space. The kitchen could only fit one person and had a stove, refrigerator, a sink, plus cabinets on top. So there was no room for counters to store a dish rack, microwave or to even cut up anything to cook. The other thing was the subway, it sure is nice to get downstairs and walk 10 feet to the subway. But you can kind of hear and feel it just a little when one passes by. Then after looking at about 8 other dives - I was just about to give up and go with the SOHO apartment. But before I could - I decided to finish the last appointment of the day and see what this one other guy had to offer. And to my surprise - I found my new apartment. It is not big - under 500 sq ft. But it is oh so charming and cute. I really like it and I had to pay him a fee - arrgghh...however I did manage to get him to reduce it by $400 and I also got them to reduce the monthly rent by $150. It is in a great neighborhood - Greenwich Village - YEAH!!!!! - 5 minutes from SOHO and 10 minutes from the East Village. So all in all I am very pleased. It is rather quite charming and cozy I must admit. It just needs a little lovin' and a whole lot of scrubbin'. And for all of those who are planning to visit soon - come on by - I know of a great hotel a few blocks away!!!

The Epiphany Of All Epiphanies

2005-04-25T16:42:00.000-04:00

I have been reading this book called - Be, it talks about life and about : being oneself, being happy and being one with the world. The first few chapters talked about purpose and what you feel inspired to do. Well as may of you know that if I ever hit the lottery - my plan would be to work at Subway Sandwiches for four hours a day and enjoy the rest of the day sipping on lattes and getting my shoes shined. And since I don't think that will be happening anytime soon - it hit me all of a sudden. While I was sitting in Central Park on a sunny day after work reading this book - an epiphany came to me. Yes, I have had some in the past - but this one could be it. I would like to open a bakery selling only cupcakes and maybe fancy cookies. I've been to the so called cupcake institutions in NYC and have not been impressed. I think they are too small, dry and boring. It dawn on me that instead of offering the standard chocolate or vanilla butter cream frosting with the multi-colored sprinkles - that pretty much all the stores here offer - why not add a touch of pizazz to it. How about adding fancier toppings like - honey toasted sliced almonds, carmelized chocolate covered coffee beans, and dark chocolate shavings sprinkled on top of the vanilla and chocolate butter cream frosting. I see these places lined up with people all the time and I think by adding something different for the more distinguished palates - it might be unique enough to be successful. Because we all know it is not so much the batter of the cupcake but the frosting and the toppings that counts. So...we shall see...I may have to toil away at a real job in the corporate world for a bit but I think this idea may just work. And like all the others - Bob's Cupcake Emporium will become an institution as well.

Simple Pleasures

2005-04-22T15:20:00.000-04:00

On Wednesday night I was fortunate enough to attend a fund raising event where the tickets were being sold for $1,000 per person. You read correctly my friends - that is a 1 followed by 4 zeros. It was a night of broadway stars sing various show tunes to benefit Covenant House. They performed songs from Cabaret, Beauty & The Beast, Rent, Le Miserables, The Phantom of The Opera and others. All of the stars did such a great job and my favorite song was of course from Phantom. Ah...that is such an amazing piece. There was a huge buffet before the show with an open bar and after the show - I had some dessert & coffee and even got to meet all the stars. Of course it being such a pricey event - some of my roommates asked if I got a chance to meet any new sugar mommas - and I said no because it was mostly a buch of sugar daddies there. Now, Bob does alot of things but Bob don't mess with Sugar Daddies. Not that there is anything wrong with that.

So, while it was nice rubbing elbows with the rich and somewhat famous the other day - it was just not for me. I enjoy the more simpler things in life. The two great simple pleasures for me is a nice hot latte at Starbucks. Now granted, paying $3 plus change for a latte is not simple and could be perceived as extravagant but the product itself is a simple treat. And the second thing is a nice and shiny $2 shoe shine. It has been awhile since my last one - so I decided to treat myself to one after work yesterday. There is just something nice about sitting in that tall chair, reading a paper while someone plies their trade. Ahh....nothing like the simple things in life. Have a great weekend my friends.

Free Ice Cream

2005-04-20T13:37:00.000-04:00

Yesterday was Customer Appreciation Day at Ben & Jerry's. They were giving away one free scoop of ice cream to everyone. Of course I thought I could just walk in - get a scoop - and be on my merry way. Well when I got there of course it WAS NOT what I expected. There were a gazillion people in line. But mostly a bunch of school kids - my first thought was "Why aren't you little boogers at home doing your homework?" And my second question was "Is one stinkin' scoop of ice cream worth it to stand in line for 30 minutes?" Well by the time I finally decided - I had already made it to the middle of the line and so the answer was "OF COURSE". Although as many of you know how busy of a person I am - I figured "what the heck" it was a nice sunny day and the line did seem like it was moving quickly. Before you know it - I was already in the store getting myself one creamy and yummy scoop of Coffee Chunky Chocolate. And as I was walking pass the line on my way to the subway I looked at the hundreds of people waiting and line and said to myself - "These people are crazy - standing in this ridiculously long line just for a stinkin' scoop of ice cream - don't you people have anything else better to do?"

Rolling The Dice

2005-04-18T17:26:00.000-04:00

I just turned down my first offer today. I told them I had a few other things stirring in the pot and that I could not committ at this moment. Not a no but not a yes either. Being somewhat of a gambler anyway - I guess I am just going to roll the dice and see what happens.

As for the weekend - it was great. Very nice and sunny weather. Met with some friends on Saturday night and hung out for a bit. Then on Sunday - I just did laundry and sat on the rooftop reading my Sunday paper with the New York City skyline as a backdrop. All in all - not a bad weekend. I guess I needed it for this upcoming week. Got a second interview at the Wall Street company tomorrow and another phone interview on Friday.

My First Offer

2005-04-14T15:06:00.000-04:00

Well my friends – it looks like the job ball is beyond twitching and is beginning to roll. Yesterday was quite a hectic day in terms of employment activity. In the morning I had an interview on Wall Street with a big financial company. And you definitely know you are on Wall Street when the corner deli has it’s own electronic ticker board above the salad bar. That was quite interesting. The interview went well and when I got home – I received a call from a company that I interviewed with last week. The HR person called to inform me that they were extending an offer of employment. I told him “I would like to think about it for a few days”. Then about a few hours later – I received another call requesting for an in person interview at my previous company whom I just had a phone interview with last week. And then lastly, at about 8:30 at night I received yet another call at another major financial institution to schedule a phone interview for next week. So as you can see – while it was a little hectic – it was definitely a good problem to have.

Desperate Bob

2005-04-12T14:52:00.000-04:00

The other day I was on browsing around on the ABC website and notice a link for a Desperate Housewives Quiz. Kinda bored and mildly curious I decided to give it a shot to see what character I would be like. Now I have never watched the show before but have heard all the buzz it has been garnering. So after answering about ten questions it gave me the result of being most similar to a character named Lynette Scavo. I was greatly disappointed because I was hoping to resemble Terri Hatcher's character - because she is just so darn cute. But oh well....from what I have been told - Lynette is the only housewife on the show that is not that desparate. So go ahead and take the quiz - which one are you?

Also - tomorrow I have an interview with a financial company in the financial district. And the address made me chuckle because it sounds just so New Yorkish. I will be going to...1 Wall Street. I thought that address only exists in movies, but that is where I will be going tomorrow - how cool is that!

Culture Shock

2005-04-08T16:57:00.000-04:00

I have had quite a week for the arts my friends. My culture intake almost went into overload. Earlier in the week - I went with some friends to see The Producers sans Nathan Lane and Matthew Broderick. The two guys on spin city were in it instead and did an excellent job. I must say that part of the plot line could be deemed offensive to some, but I thought it was the best play I have seen. It was very fast-paced, intelligent and it had me just laughing the whole way through.

On Wednesday - my roommates and I headed over to the Lincoln Center to enjoy a performance by the Julliard Symphony. They played some high falut'n classical pieces that I have never heard of but it was quite impressive. The best part was that my roommate had a connection and got us all box seats for ... you guessed it - FREE!

Then last night - I just recently met this girl who works for The Met - this is where they hold all the fancy operas and ballet performances. She knew somebody who new somebody and got us some exclusive sneak preview tickets to the Glenngary Glen Ross play. It doesn't officially open until tonight - but we got these open tickets and made a dash for the best seats that we could. This play is a drama and had a few well known stars - Alan Alda (Mash), Liev Schreiber (Manchurian Candidate), Jeffrey Tambor (The Larry Sanders Show). It was great acting but the plot wasn't too exciting for me - but the price sure was great when it is free.

It was nice to get so much culture this week but it sure would have been nice to space it out and not have everything all at once. But when you get the opportunity - you might as well take advantage of it. Also - guess who will be going to an opera performance soon...you're right...that would be - ME!

He's Already There

2005-04-06T23:16:00.000-04:00

This whole week I have been glued to the tv just like an infomercial junkie on a binge. The death of the Pope had me watching all the news and specials about the Pope. I guess it is just something about spinning rotisseries, indestructible knives, non-stick cookware and the death of someone famous to get peopled hooked. And while I was watching these broadcasts - I heard several people interviewed say they were so sad and how they will be praying for him. So it got me thinking for a bit. I said to myself, "If there is one person who didn’t need our prayers – it would be the Pope”. He got his one-way ticket to the Pearly Gates reserved a long time ago and has no doubt already arrived. Besides - if he were to truly need our prayers, than we are all in some serious trouble my friends. So instead, I think you should be praying for me – because I may be going straight to hell for these comments.

Fountain of Yuck

2005-04-05T17:45:00.000-04:00

Well boys and girls - it is time once again for a "I wish I just didn't see that but I did story". This morning while waiting on the subway platform with some friends I saw something that still makes me shudder just at the thought of it. We were just standing around talking and they made a comment about a man behind us that was acting kind of strange. I then regrettably proceeded to turn around and witness something that was not only disturbing but quite impressive. Unfortunately, I had turn around just in time to see this man spew what looked like vomit 10 feet into the air and onto the tracks as if he was a geyser at Yellowstone National Park. For a moment there, subconsciously I thought perhaps I was gazing upon some statue with a water fountain coming from his mouth in the middle of the town square in a small serene cobblestoned European village with the faint sounds of music coming from a street musician plying his art at the street corner along with the aromatic smell of fresh bread wafting through the spring air. But then I was suddenly jolted back to reality when my brain processed the fact that I was not in Europe because instead of water - he projected a murky, brownish, chunky vomit concoction. And as I witnessed this, part of me thought..."No...that was impossible...no human could have thrown up with that much force, velocity and quantity". Talk about shock and awe - but after the sensual befuddlement subsided, reality settled in and I knew what I witness was oh so real and oh so disgustingly gross. Although I do have to admit that the stream of vomit that lurched out of his mouth did have a very nice symmetrical arc and looked quite fabulously splendid if it had not been for the fact that he also hurled out half of his intestines as well. I suppose the rats will be having a feast tonight.

Secrets, Shakes & Salmon

2005-04-01T15:45:00.000-05:00

The job market has been tougher to crack than I originally anticipated. So, after much consideration and rumination– I will share with you a little secret that I will divulge with my faithful readers first. I have decided to remain in my position for one more year. I’ve enjoyed my time here so – what the heck why not stay. And... I will also let you in on another secret...shhh...April Fools.

Sorry, I just had to do that. Now on to more important matters at hand. The Shake Shack is opening up this weekend for business. Yeah!!! It is a little joint in the middle of a park on the East Side with outside seating. It was voted NYC's best burger by the New Yorker. Last year I went with some vegetarian dude and since they were out of veggie burgers – he whined and sulked so much that we had to go someplace else. Then the fall came and they closed for the season, so I never got a chance to go last year. But you can bet I will getting a nice juicy greasy burger and a shake real soon.

As for my dinner at Mooncake Restaurant the other night – it was amazing. The food was superb. I ended up getting the miso-glazed salmon and it was yummy yummy good. The place was packed when we left and it is was definite thumbs up especially when we got the bill. 3 appetizers, 5 drinks, 5 meals and 4 desserts for the unbelievable price of only $88. Wow - $88, you can spend that much on a just a few slices and regoo-lar coffees here in the Big Apple. So if you are ever in NYC with only $20 in your pockets and need a full satisfying meal – Mooncake is the place.

Also, I just got a call yesterday from a place I had a phone interview with the other week. They called me in for a formal interview next week. Double Yeah!!! Well have a good weekend. I will try my darndest to do the same.

Mooncake For Moondog

2005-03-30T16:18:00.000-05:00

Tonight my housemates are taking me out to dinner just because I am such a swell guy. Well not really, they are taking me out because I will be leaving soon, but that doesn’t mean that I’m not a swell guy as well - because I am. I even got to choose the place and I decided on a little gem in SOHO called Mooncake Foods. It is a Pan-Asian fusion restaurant that has gotten great reviews and the prices are exceptional to boot - most of the entrees are around $8. Also, do you know who’s birthday it is today? No…it is not any of my TWO birthdays – but Vincent Van Gogh’s. I saw a little something Google did to honor him and I thought it was very cool.

That is such a cowinky dink…that’s my own jibberish talk for coincidence, since I saw his Starry Night painting the other day at MOMA.

Well, I am off to be wined and dined. Or in this case soda-ed and dined, but it should be a great evening nonetheless because I am the guest of honor. And isn't it always great when you get to be the guest of honor?

Hmm...what will it be...the Sliced Steak with Cilantro & Ginger, Pork Chops with White Wine & Soy, or maybe even the Miso-Glazed Salmon...hmm decisions - decisions.

New Tradition

2005-03-29T15:32:00.000-05:00

I hope everyone had a great Easter holiday. Mine was ehhhh - kind of uneventful. On Friday night I visited the MOMA and got to see Van Gogh's Starry Night again - which is still very cool to see. Then on Saturday morning I accidently deleted the email with the confirmation and name of the theater for Hamlet2 - so that plan was nixed. In the evening, I went to a friend's birthday dinner and we ended up going to a karoke bar and sung til 4:00 am. But the biggest adventure was the hunt for the Easter treat of hot cross buns on Sunday. Now growing up down south, I really never heard of these until last year. Hot cross buns orginated in England and have been an Easter tradition for centeries. They seem to be really big here in the east coast and midwest. Last year was my first time ever eating one in the cafeteria at work. Basically they are sweet buns made with dried fruit and topped with icing in the sign of the cross. They even have a little rhyme for them -

Hot cross buns! Hot cross buns!
One a penny, two a penny, Hot cross buns!
If ye have no daughters, Give them to your sons.
One a penny, two a penny, Hot cross buns!

After having one last year - I figured I have to keep this new traditon of mine alive. All the bakeries had sold out of them by the time I went a'huntin for dem buns and it took four shops before I could finally get my hands on one. I guess that is what I get for waking up so late. It isn't something I would crave to eat year round, but having it once a year isn't too bad. Truth be told - they aren't even really that good just - average. But you can't mess with tradition even if it is only 2 years old.

Bonus Post

2005-03-25T14:08:00.000-05:00

Greetings to all 2 of my readers out there. A lot of DVD's have secret hidden bonus materials on the disc if you know how to get to them. They are called appropriately "Easter Eggs" - and to access it you have to go thru a series of button on the remote to get to them. Originally, I wasn't planning to post anything today but because I appreciate you guys soooo much and in the Easter spirit - I thought I would surprise you.

When I woke up this morning, I was feeling a little weirded out about the job discussions I had yesterday. Now I know I am getting waaaaaaay ahead of myself here and that the UK plans might not even pan out - but it felt a little strange moving and working over there this morning. Even though I've done quite a few things in NYC and have been here for about 1 1/2 years - I feel as though I just really got here and still have so much to do in New York. Some how bobinnyc just has a nicer ring to it. But as I said, that opportunity may not even become reality - so no more talk of that subject until it happens.

As for today - I think I will head to St. Patrick's cathedral and "hang out" for a bit - since it is Good Friday and I did get the day off I suppose. Then afterwards I am thinking about visiting the Museum of Modern Art again. Reading The Da Vinci Code has really made me want to visit a museum for some reason - I guess since a lot of the plot takes place in The Louvre might have something to do with it. The museum is also screening an interesting movie called Duck Season. It is a comedy exported from Mexico and seems like a very funny movie so I guess I will try to check it out since I will be already at the MOMA. And the best thing about it is - MOMA is FREE on Friday nights. Yeah!!!!!

For Saturday - I just went on Craigslist looking for anything useful and found an offer for a free play in The West Village. It is called Hamlet 2 and is a zany retelling of the famous Shakespeare play. The description says "THINK SCARY MOVIE MEETS HAMLET". Sounds interesting and I'm a little scared already - of it being bad. But I figure if it stinks and I hate it - at least it was free.

East-er Treat

2005-03-24T16:45:00.000-05:00

Earlier today I talked with an acquaintence in the UK about some possible job opportunities. An old senior manager of mine joined a company over there a few years ago and has slowly recruited about a dozen or so of the people I used to work with to join him in the UK. Convienantly, two other managers that I reported to is also over there whom I always had a good working relationship with. So my contact said that there was some interest in several departments and that they may have a spot for me over there too. So overall it was a very pleasant converasation and I may be flying over there soon to talk about some possibilities. Well, it seems that the job ball is more than just wobbling now, it may have begun to start on a semi-roll. Hopefully pretty soon it may not need to roll but maybe just float east across the pond. So how does bobinlondon sound?

Well, I am off tomorrow - so may all of you have a Happy Easter.

A Wet & Cold Dragged Out Humpday

2005-03-23T15:23:00.000-05:00

Man, for the first time in a long time - I feel like this week is just dragging on. It is only Wednesday and I feel as if I have been working 5 days already. Although that might be an exageration - because it has been awhile since I have really worked a full five day week. It seems like I have been traveling, going on vacation or some other cirumstance that has prevented me from working a full week. Alas, that tradition will also hold true again this week my friends. It looks like I will get Good Friday off. So another 4 day work week again. Yes, I know it is a hard life but Yeah for me!!! If this keeps up, I don't know if I will be able to survive in the real business world. A person can sure get spoiled fast working these hours. Maybe I need to find a job in Europe instead?

On another subject matter, the weather is kinda crazy today. It is a mixture of snow, rain and sleet. It will be like this again tomorrow. Very different from the previous two days when we had perfect spring like weather in the 50's. We are expecting about 4 more inches of snow when it is all said and done. Just when I thought I could put my winter hats - which I don't wear because it gives me hat hair - away for the season. I guess I will just have to keep it in my bag for show for another week or two.

P.S. - The Da Vinci Code is amazing so far - I can hardly put it down. It is getting to the point where I am disappointed when I reach my subway stop and have to get off the train.

Spring Means Ice Cream and March Madness

2005-03-21T17:18:00.000-05:00

You know spring is here with the arrival of the spring/summer time tradition of the Mr. Softee Ice Cream trucks. These ice cream trucks are parked on every street corner blaring their obnoxious and loud jingle every five minutes. However, they do have all delicious kinds of treats – but I don’t know if putting up with that constant blaring is worth it – well maybe.

Another spring tradition is the NCAA March Madness basketball tournament. Over the weekend, I went to catch an OSU game at a sports bar appropriately named XII. For those of you who don’t know – OSU is part of the Big 12 Conference so that name was quite fitting. Last week I received a post card from the alumni association saying that is where a group of alums were hanging out to watch the 2 games over the weekend, so I thought I would join them. There were about 21 people there and we will be meeting there again this Thursday night for the Sweet 16 round.

And as for my job interviews last Friday, one went well and one was kinda strange. The phone interview went well but it looks like it is a really small company, so we will see. The other interview was more like a discussion with UNICEF. The lady was a friend of my boss’s boss and I guess she just wanted to meet me before she forwarded my resume onward. She really didn’t have anything available, but I finally figured out the situation without having to ask “Just what the heck am I doing here?” So I guess I wouldn’t necessarily say the job search process ball is rolling yet, but I guess I could say it is beginning to wobble a bit. Now just where is that dang yummy ice cream truck at? - because I deserve a little treat.

Luck Of The Irish

2005-03-17T16:58:00.000-05:00

I am back from CA and I am still kinda pooped. But being the dedicated employee that I am - I was at work today catching up on all the emails and messages I received when I was gone. On the flight back - I also started reading the much talked about book by Dan Brown - The Da Vinci Code. The first 5 chapters was quite interesting and even though it looks like a big book it seems like an easy read, so hopefully it won’t take me too long to finish it.

When I got into work today, there was a little surprise for me. My boss's boss left me a message saying he set up an interview for me for tomorrow already. It is with Unicef and it is with a contact of his contacts. I really don’t know what kind of position or what capacity I will be doing, but I guess I will find out during our talk. I was also told that we may also discuss other opportunities at different agencies that she is affiliated with. I am kinda excited and also kinda not ready. I don't even think I have any clean white shirts that have been dry cleaned and pressed. That also means that I will be going to see Holly tonight. Just when I was getting used to my hair and as it was beginning to grow out of its shaggy phase – oh well. I will let you know how it goes tomorrow. But wait...there’s more...I originally had a phone “discussion” with a company in the UK this morning but he never called and then emailed later saying he was out sick and we will have to reschedule. Too bad. But wait there’s even more...I just got off the phone with another company and I have a phone interview with them tomorrow afternoon as well. So I guess that makes up for the one that didn’t happen today. Thanks to the Irish - maybe this will turn out to be my lucky day. Happy St. Paddy’s Day!

The Mentalizer

2005-03-09T15:10:00.000-05:00

Last night I went to see The Mentalizer. I will admit – it was very entertaining and he had me ooohing and aaahing throughout the show like a little 7 year old. But the adult 27’ish or there abouts in me, was quite skeptical afterwards. He did a variety of tricks -which were all amazing. Some of my favorites were where he got a credit card from an audience member and proceeded to spin it in mid air over his palm and around his body. It was like a spinning ufo flying around the room. In another trick, he asked a spectator to randomly pick up a few pieces of a 1000 piece jigsaw puzzle from a box. She then began to eliminate the pieces until there was only one left. He then lifted a veil over an easel they were standing next to. It was a completed identical jigsaw puzzle with only one piece missing. She then attempted to fit her piece – which she randomly picked from another box previous to the unveiling and wouldn’t you know it – she ended picking up the missing piece of the puzzle. Another trick was one in which I actually got to participate in. He tossed a deck of cards into the crowd – which I just happened to jump 10 feet up off the chair to catch. He asked me to look at a card in the deck with taking it out of the deck and to toss the deck further back into the crowd. The person who caught it behind me picked a card and also tossed it further back into the crowd. This happened twice more for a total of four participants. He then asked me and the other 3 to concentrate on our card while he attempted to read our minds. And lo and behold – wouldn’t you know – he guessed what each of us had randomly selected from the deck. I had picked a 3 of clubs from the deck. So I can definitely say that the audience was not rigged. As I said, I was definitely impressed but not sold on his supernatural abilities. I just really don’t believe in that ESP – Psychic stuff. Because the cynic and skeptic in me always say if these guys could see into the future or see things no one else can see than they would all be lottery millionaires. But nonetheless he was a great performer and entertainer especially for the price of – free.

Well, my friends – I am headed off to CA tomorrow. So there may be no more updates for a week. But you never know – I may just surprise you with an on location blog post – so I guess you will just have to check back everyday to see if there is one.

Look Into My Eyes...Your Hair Is Getting Longer

2005-03-08T16:20:00.000-05:00

Well, I am finally back at work this week after working from home the last 3 weeks. I am technically done with my job here and looking for full time employment in the real world once again. But of course, tomorrow is my last day this week because I am heading off to sunny California for a little vacation. Just in time too - because there is blizzard going on outside right now.

But anywho, alot of my peers at work were surprise to see me and my unruly hair after a few weeks. This is probably the longest I have ever had it. I have vowed not to get it cut until I get my first interview. Kind of like a Samson - me against the world thing. Well okay, maybe only against the corporate world. I do have to admit, it is at the stage where it does kinda look funky and shaggy, but give it another few weeks and the frizziness will have passed and it may look endearing in a cool hipster kinda way. If the Lord has any mercy for you guys...he will give an interview soon!!! But then again I hear he can have a wicked sense of humor sometimes...and let me tell you the hair is getting very weird. I think even Holly might not want to get near my hair right now. So beware, you have been warned - don't get all freaked out if you happen to see me anytime soon.

Also, I got free tickets for a show today from the best free site of all - Craig's List. The show is sold out and the tickets cost about $50 bucks - so yeah for me. It is for the critically acclaimed Off-Broadway supernatural experience: The Mentalizer Show. The performer is a mind reader who, according to the site...is world renown for his unique entertainment, providing an altogether new definition of fun and spirituality. He has exceptional powers of mind control, thought transmittal, telekinesis and elements of hypnosis. Sounds kinda hokie but fun in a free kind of way. So if it is any good, maybe I will let you know .... In your dreams tonight...Ha Ha Ha....sorry I couldn't resist.

Regular = Milk & Sugar

2005-03-03T16:12:00.000-05:00

First, let me apologize to whoever is left still reading this blog - if there is anyone left. I know it has been awhile since my last update. I had some new peers come to NYC for 3 weeks of training and have been herding them around, so I haven’t had time to write anything.

So...I go to get a regular cup of coffee this morning not at my local corner bakery but a little breakfast joint right next to where I live. I said to the lady, "I would like one small coffee please." She said in a thick Italian accent – you wanna one regoo-lar coffee. I said yes – one regular cup of joe. I then see her put a couple of scoops of sugar, milk and then coffee into the cup. I said- Whoa...I don't wanna no sugar and no milk. She said – but you said regular coffee. And I said yes I did say regular. She then shoots me this dirty look and says – "here regular means sugar and milk". I then said "Lady, today is not the day to start with me – I am not in the mood. Don’t be giving me that look - I don’t care what your regular means, my regular means black." Well, okay no...that was not what I really said – although that was what I wanted to say. But instead, because I am a nice person and not that I was really afraid of her jumping over the counter and beating me senseless, I ended up saying ooops..."I’m sorry – I should have said black coffee instead." But this was her lucky day – because I was feeling ahem....calm this morning – lucky her because I do really think I could have taken her down – all 90 lbs and 4’ 9" of her. So if you are ever in New York ordering coffee – just remember regular doesn’t mean regular.

Zen-tral Park

2005-02-14T14:30:00.000-05:00

On Saturday I went to Central Park to see all the hoopla regarding the much anticipated unveiling of The Gates. It was definitely interesting. In my very "finite" wisdom and appreciation of art – I think it was rather impressive. This project has been in the works for 26 years and with a price tag of 21 million dollars – it was quit intriguing to say the least. Of course, their work received mixed opinions but I think that most of the spectators enjoyed it. It was like being in my own Zen garden. The walk through the posts was very relaxing and meditative – even though there were like 350,000 people in the park that day.

However, I did think they could have used the money in different ways but at least it was all publicly funded by the artists. The city expect revenues to exceed 80 million dollars from this project. The nice thing was that the city and the parks department are getting all the proceeds from the sale of all the souvenirs – hats, t-shirts, books, posters, keychains etc. So that was very nice of the artists I suppose. In any case – this was definitely a once in a lifetime event. It will only be up for another 14 days – so you better hurry! Also checkout a slideshow that I put together of The Gates if you have some time.

P.S - SM- sorry to say but the answer is no.

The Gates Of NYC

2005-02-11T16:27:00.000-05:00

This weekend I will try to make it to Central Park for the unveiling of a much ballyhooed public art display. It is called "The Gates" – by the artists Christo and Jeanne-Claude. The 7500 Gates, 16 feet high with a width varying from 5' 6" to 18 feet will follow the edges of the walkways and will be perpendicular to the selected 23 miles of footpaths in Central Park. Free hanging saffron colored fabric panels suspended from the horizontal top part of the gates will come down to approximately 7 feet above the ground blowing in the wind and delighting the public walking beneath with a warm glow of translucent color. It will be a golden ceiling creating warm shadows and when seen from the buildings surrounding Central Park, The Gates will seem like a golden river appearing and disappearing through the bare branches of the trees and will highlight the shape of the footpaths. Wow…so doesn’t that sound interesting and snooty all at once.

P.S. I’ll be thinking about you Double D as I walk through the free flowing river work of art – I know you would have enjoyed it.

Happy New Year Of The Rooster

2005-02-10T16:33:00.000-05:00

Well to all my Asian readers out there – I would just like to extend a Happy New Year to each and everyone of you. For all the non-Asian readers...well sorry – I ain't got nothin for you…

But I will leave you with this little snippet from my not so good friend anymore - David Letterman.

"It’s Chinese New Year. It’s the year of the rooster. The funny thing is I’m still writing year of the monkey on my checks."

I thought that was kinda funny, hope you did too.

I Will Never Look At Sweet Rolls The Same

2005-02-08T16:21:00.000-05:00

Last night I went to the library on the way home from work and checked out a few movies. Nothing like free rentals I tell you. But anywho - I ended up watching a comedy called Calendar Girls, which was based was on a true story. Set in the picturesque village of Napely in the UK, we meet 50-something best friends who belong to the local Women's Institute, which is staid and traditional, and to them, boring and silly. When one of their husband dies from cancer, some of the club members decide to raise money for a new sofa in the hospital waiting room by selling a calendar featuring themselves in the nude. Kind of like a male version of The Full Monty. The movie was alright but the fact that I had to watch naked "matured" women hiding behind strategically places sweet rolls and flower buds was a little disturbing to say the least. I still shudder at those images and am trying to get those visuals out from my head.

And now I am off to pick up yet again - another computer I found on - you guessed it - Craig's List. This will the the third pc I have gotten from that site. A roommate of mind is moving out and she mentiond that she needed a pc. So while I was in Florida I was able to secure one for her. I was hoping to surprise her with it, but when I got back it was I that got the surprise. When I was away she went ahead and purchase a used one. After coming by this new revelation - I called the guy and said I wasn't interested anymore, but he got a little upset because he had to hold on to it for over a week on my behalf and that he had already told over 50 people that it was already spoken for. So I couldn't say no and I guess I got an extra one just incase one of the other ones go down. Also, this time since I will be picking it up when it is still light outside, no need to search his name on the internet to see if he is some crazy guy out to kill me.

Beware Of Those Sneaky Sidewalk Gremlins

2005-02-07T15:47:00.000-05:00

Well this was a very nice and relaxing weekend for me. I did end up going to the language social group get together on Saturday night and I am glad I did. I got a chance to meet some new people, catch up with some of the regulars and eat a whole lot of good food. Then to top it off, fortunately one of the guys there drove to Brooklyn and only lives about 2 miles from me so I was able to get a ride home from him. 20 minute car ride instead of a 1 1/2 hour subway ride at midnight - so that made it even better .

Then on Sunday - with the beautiful weather, I got a paper and went to the corner bakery for a little treat. The sun was out, the coffee hot and the baked item was good as usual - so no complaints from me. After that I sat around the house and watched a few movies before it was time to head off to watch the Superbowl. I was originally going to the new Sports bar that opened up in the neighborhood. But when I got there - the door man wanted a $25 cover charge to go in. Admission included free appetizers but no drinks. Well with only a $20 in my pocket - it was off to Plan B. I ended up catching the subway a few stops down and went to the place I went last year where they had 10 cent wings. So not a problem for me. I was happy, my tummy was happier but my wallet was probably happiest.

But the relaxed and content feeling of the weekend ended abruptly this morning on the walk to work. For those of you who know me and my duck feet and how my ankles turn for no reason - well, as I was just walking along enjoying the fresh morning air - all of a sudden I turned my right ankle pretty bad and cursed those imaginary sneaky sidewalk gremlins. Of course the natural reaction is to always turn around and expect to see a big rock or something in the way, but to only end up with a bewildered look on your face when all you can see is the smooth surface of the pavement. So after doing that - I attempted to limp on by nonchalantly as if nothing happened while the unbearable pain was shooting up my ankle. But I am sure I fooled no one. Ah....nothing like that to start off the work week.

Super Sunday

2005-02-04T16:39:00.000-05:00

It’s finally Friday and although I’ve only worked two days this week – it was been a very long week indeed. One thing is for sure, I can really get use to this 2 work day week schedule. Nothing big planned this weekend except for a little New Years get together tomorrow night with my language social group. Haven’t completely settled on going yet but leaving that open as an option. As for Sunday, I am definitely planning on going to the neighborhood corner bakery for a little treat. Its been awhile since I did that and no harm in a little self pampering after such an "exhausting week". Then for Sunday afternoon – yep, it is that time of the year again. Super Bowl Sunday is finally here. The other day I noticed a new sports bar that opened up a few blocks from where I live – so I am thinking about going there for some wings and a brewski. Last year I met a friend at a different sports bar and we stuffed our faces with 10 cent wings all night. Hopefully, this new place will have some sort of special too. Well – my friends have a great weekend and enjoy the game or at least the commercials.

The Nice Big Waves On South Beach

2005-02-03T16:24:00.000-05:00

I am back from sunny Florida. It was my first time in the Sunshine state and it was very nice. My first day there, my peers took me on a alligator swamp tour near Ft. Lauderdale. The guide said in "that theer swamp - had bout 350,000 ga-torrs in it". Of course the swamp was about 175,000 acres big which meant only 2 gators per acre. So while the number of gators seemed like a lot, it was spread out in a very large swamp. That along with it being winter time, the guide promised only to do her best to find some of them critters. Turns out, we saw about 5 of them - which according to her was a very good at this time of year. But for me, it was cooler riding in an airboat - the kind that has a gigantic fan on the back of it instead of a motor. That thing had quite a zip to it. For the rest of my stay - I got to visit the agency down there, meet some of the staff, eat a whole lot and hung out at the beach. One time I ran the 1 1/2 mile to the ocean with a peer - jumped in for a quick dip and then jogged back. Then on another occasion, I rode the bike down there and just took a nap underneath a palm tree with the gentle ocean breeze wisping ever so gently across my face as I dozed the afternoon away with a full belly. Ahh....that day was so very relaxing. Below is a picture of one of them that theer ga-torrs.

Then on Monday I headed down to the Miami - South Beach area. This time, I didn't do much except hang out at the ocean both days. Didn't do anything but soak in the sun and the view. And while yes, there were some topless women there, I only noticed the nice big waves coming in from the ocean - just as another friend of mine claimed he did as well. On the last day, we went on a Duck tour - it is one of those by land and sea amphibious vehicle that took as around Ocean Drive on land and Biscayne Bay, Star Island and a whole bunch of little islands where all the rich and famous live by water. Got to see the mansions of Shaq, Gloria Estafan, Liz Taylor, P Diddy and a whole bunch more. I suppose I could live there if forced to - but now I am back in NYC. Although it was a very nice and relaxing trip - nothing beats the Big Apple. Great to be back! Here is a picture of me just chillin' looking into the nice blue waters - at the ahem....big waves.

Sunshine, Sand and Speedos

2005-01-27T16:23:00.000-05:00

Today's tempurature in NYC will be a low of 6 degrees and - 2 with the wind chill. That is why I am so disappointed about having to go to sunny Ft. Lauderdale and Miami tomorrow. Yeah for Bob!!! I will be heading down there to hang out with some peers, take them out to eat and do an agency visit. Yes, I hear your exasperations of sympathy again just as you did a few months back when I HAD to go to Vancouver. Can you believe having to get away from this wonderful artic weather and going to hot and sunny Florida - sipping on fruity drinks while wiggling my toes in the nice warm sand down south. All I ask is that you do not feel too sorry for me. I know it is a very hard and demanding life I live. As I always say and very true to form, "It ain't easy being Bob".

Hmmm...wonder if I still have my swimming trunks and any sun tanning lotion left. I will sure be thinking about everyone of you, especially to that crazy guy - "The Tan Man", who just raves about sitting in a tanning salon. Enjoy laying on that tanning bed in your speedo's - I'll have an extra margarita for you.

Free - Always Come At A Price

2005-01-26T16:27:00.000-05:00

Last night I went to pick up a free bed I found on Craig’s List. For those of you not in the know – it is a website that posts – free stuff, for sale stuff, jobs, dating, housing and about everything else you could think of. I have already gotten another bed, a brand new tv, gas grill, patio furniture set and 2 computers already. It has a local site for just about every major city in the U.S. and the world. But anywho, I went to the southern tip of Brooklyn, only about 20 minutes away to pick it up. So when I got to his street I searched and searched for his address and could not find it. I called and told him the intersection where I was and then he asks me...”Are you in Manhattan?”…And I said, “Manhattan?!!?”…No I am in Brooklyn!!!". He said he lives in the West Village. Arrrgghhhh!!! I could have sworn his post said something about Brooklyn, he must have made a mistake and not realized it because we all know that I could not possibly make a mistake right? So now I have to drive all the way back and into Manhattan, the only thing that made it bearable was that I got to drive across the Brooklyn Bridge. I have ran and walked across the bridge several times but never driven across – so it was kinda nice. I finally get to his building and it turns out he was only 5 minutes from where I work. I could have just driven to work in the morning and picked it up after work and saved myself the time and hassle. But oh well, of course I am not surprise with the luck that I always have.

Anyway, he was kind enough to drag down the box spring and mattress with me. And this is where the fun begins my friends. We flatten the middle and back row seats in the van and loaded the mattress. We then tried to put in the box spring next but it did not fit. We decided that we needed to put the box spring in first and then the mattress. So we took out both the box spring and mattress and put it back on the roof. This time we proceeded to put in the box spring first and then attempted the mattress next. But of course the mattress did not fit because the two rows of seats were in the way and everything was sitting up too high. Do you remember the little sliding tile puzzle with 8 numbered tiles in a nine-space square? And you had to maneuver the tiles using the empty space to get every tile to line up sequentially? Well that was how it was with us. In the van, out of the van, on the roof, back into the van, and back out of the van again. In the Craig’s List posting he had said if no one picked it up he was just going to leave it out on the curb. Well, after about 30 minutes of the sliding bed puzzle game, I half joked and half seriously said maybe we should just leave the dang thing on the curb. And at this point, this poor guy was probably thinking the same thing. We were ankle deep and some places knee deep in snow because of the plowing. But then we took a breather and had a little conversation. I admitted to him that I did a search on the internet on his name just to be sure he wasn't some crazed psycho out to lock me in his apartment and kill me. And it turns out he was in an article in the New Yorker about some high tech business stuff. So I think he was kinda impressed I knew that and kinda offended that I thought he would kill me. Oh well, you can never be too safe around here in this city. You never know...After that little awkward small talk we put everything back on the roof and took out the 2 rows of seats. We then proceeded yet again to put in the box spring and then the mattress and they both barely fit in but still left one little problem. Now we just had to somehow get the two rows of seats back in, which weighed about 40-50 pounds each. So after some squeezing, pushing, and bending we finally got everything back in the van. And off I went back home and I am sure that guy regretted ever posting the ad.

So 1 sore back, 2 bridges, 3 boroughs, 4 hours, and 5 jammed fingers later – I made it home with my FREE bed. All I know is this better be the most comfortable bed that I may or may never sleep on!!! I won’t even begin to tell you how I got it out of the van and into my building. That is another post for another day – Oi Vey!!!

The Great Blizzard of 2005

2005-01-24T15:34:00.000-05:00

Yes...I know we are only 24 days into 2005 – so in a way it was the great blizzard of 2005 so far. I had some visitors this weekend, one of them came all the way from San Antonio, Texas - so she got a good kick out of the storm – all 13 inches of it. While it wasn’t one of the bigger storms, it was nice to finally get some snow here. Fresh snow just somehow puts a nice big blanket of pleasantness to New York City. We were out and about on Saturday – and before we headed back home we trudged along and made it to Central Park. With hardly anyone there, we decided to hop over a fence into an undisturbed meadow of fresh snow. We plopped down and made snow angels in about a foot of clean white snow. Some other people saw us doing this and decided to jump over the fence and make their own angels as well. Then on Sunday, I just stayed indoors all day getting my fill of football. Was very tempted to go to the bakery but it was just too cold. The dessert and coffee will just have to wait for another day. But alas my friends, all good things must come to an end. As the city was covered in a nice sheet of white - after a day or two with all the traffic, shoveling, walking and dogs – the city is now or will be covered in a blanket of nasty gray with a few yellow spots here and there. Oh well...that’s just the way the snowflake falls I guess.

I'm Baaack....But Off The Market

2005-01-18T16:26:00.000-05:00

First, let me apologize to my faithful readers – if there is any of you left – for not updating my blog in a while. I was busy entertaining some guests last week. So once again, my sincere apologizes.

Well for the extended weekend, I just milled around the house working on my resume and updating my profile on Monster.com. I also applied to several positions at MTV. That would be so cool to work there – right in the heart and madness of Times Square. I can definitely see myself working there and “accidentally bumping” into celebrities all the time.

Also, I was able to catch two flicks this weekend. Originally, I wanted to see Sideways – but it was all sold out so I ended up watching Million Dollar Baby – a story about a female boxer and her trainer directed by Clint Eastwood. It has been getting a lot of favorable buzz and I thought it was a good movie, not a great one, but a good one that had some emotional flare to it. The first 3/4 of the movie was what I expected, but the last 1/4 was definitely not what I expected. It was like a left hook I never even saw it coming – boxing pun there by the way...(insert rim shot).

The other movie that I saw was Closer. Now this was a very interesting movie. Once again this was a good movie, not a great movie but a good one that had some emotional flare to it. Hmmm...somehow that sounds vaguely familiar. But anywho, the subject of this one was much more different and intense than MDB. A few months ago, I blogged about Reality Movies and how we never see them – well this to me, is about as real as you can almost get. It is about love, intimacy, bitterness, resentment, loyalty and betrayal. The two couples in this movie obsess, cheat, hurt, and lie to each other a few times over. The movie starts like a nice romantic drama, then does a 180-degree turn and shows what happens when happily ever after rots from the inside out. It isn't just the relationships that curdle, but the characters. Their interaction becomes bitter, cold and heartless. It shows the worst in humans and what we are capable of doing to the ones we love. I actually left the theater quite depressed and vowed never to be in another long-term relationship again. The pain, hurt and suffering just does not seem worth it. Because in a cynical way, I think that given enough time – people especially the ones you love - will eventually disappoint you. Kind of demented and cynical but that wouldn’t be Bob. So now don’t you just want to go out and see this movie....and by the way sorry to all the cuties, sugar mommas, Hollys, peeping Pattys – and yes Jacks too – Bob is off the market....for now.

Egads....Say It Isn't So

2005-01-10T15:44:00.000-05:00

Today my faithful readers - I come to you with a very heavy and saddened heart. I have just received some very bad news. I found out that two of my very close friends have just split up. I have known them separately long before they started dating and have grown to become very fond of them. When I found out they were seeing each other and finally getting married - I was so elated. I thought they were a match made in heaven and that they were just made for each other. Over the last few years they seemed so happy and in love with each other. Sure they had some rough times, but isn't that the case with all relationships. Why, just a few weeks ago they were still talking about having some babies and starting a family. They also just sent me some pictures of them vacationing in the islands not too long ago. I guess you just can never tell - in this day and age - anything is possible I suppose.

In the next few days, I hope to talk to her soon - maybe over some coffee and see how she is doing. I just want her to know that I'll be there for her and will always lend an ear when she needs to talk. As for him, I am thinking of rounding up the boys - about 10 of us and flying him out to his favorite place - Las Vegas, to hang out, have some fun and get his mind off things. Hopefully in time, they will find someone new and start over again. For I ask "Do we all not deserve to be happy?" Believe it or not, this is one of the few times where I am just at a lost for words and am still feeling numb to the news.

Oh well, all I can say is good luck to the both of you - Brad and Jennifer....I wish you well and all the best......

Subway Fireworks Part II - The Return Of The Racist Menance

2005-01-05T15:05:00.000-05:00

Alrighty then, after a little detour yesterday – I am ready to conclude the story about the fight in the subway over the weekend. As I was saying, after this loony guy started mouthing off very offensive tirades to two different ethnic groups – he got punched in the face a few times. After a few seconds, everyone on the train realized that it could escalate into something worse really quickly. So people around the fracas started rushing towards the end of the cars. To his credit – the guy that got hit just stood there without fighting back, probably in shock that someone actually had the audacity to hit him for his derogatory remarks. He had this befuddled look and was bleeding from the mouth and I think two of his teeth fell out also. Not having learned his lesson yet, he started to mouth off again. So when we got to the next station, a lot of people where just streaming out of that car as it came to a stop. I on the other hand with a sick curiosity got closer to the action. So as he was in the middle of his crazed rant, the two black men pushed him out of the car. At first he resisted by stretching his hands across the doorframe, but the two guys finally overpowered him and that is when he ran to the car in front of us. He got between the doors and started yelling to the people in that car - that he wanted police down here and that he was being attacked by two n*&$#(!. Now, these people in the car ahead had no clue what is going on and are probably a little shocked to see I guy all bloodied and yelling for the police. I assumed someone pulled the emergency brakes and that brought the whole subway train to a complete halt and standstill. The conductor came out and started to investigate the situation, and eventually made it to the car I was in. The two black men then proceeded to tell him that the white guy was the instigator and that he was a little more than coo-coo for CoCo puffs. The conductor then asked the whole car if what was being said was the truth, a collective "YES" was echoed throughout the car by whomever was still left at that time. He then got off and walked towards the crazy guy – and had some sort of discussion with him. After a few minutes the conductor got back on and started the train up again. Pretty soon we were on our way again. For the people that got on at the next stop, everything was back to normal as if nothing had happened just a few minutes earlier except for the two bloodied teeth that were still on the bottom of the car.

Too Much...Even For BobMan

2005-01-04T16:28:00.000-05:00

Before I continue with the story from yesterday, I have to share another interesting subway story I experienced this morning first. As the E train was coming to a stop at the station, I noticed that the car my roommate and I was about to get on was quite empty - which was quite unusual, as compared to all the ones that just passed by. We got on and were excited to see seats available because normally there are no seats available. As we were sitting we noticed a very unpleasant aroma wafting through the air. The funk was quite horrendous and putrid. Now, having ridden the subway for a year now - I have witnessed, or should I say sniffed quite a variety of unpleasant odors. There has been poop, pee, puke, b.o. and winos - but never before have I smelled the stench that was present. I then also noticed everyone with their nostrils covered by either their hand or a scarf. It was actually quite a very funny sight - if only my own nostrils had not been attacked in such a sledgehammer over the head – mind numbing manner. In the ten seconds or so - my olfactory senses was just overwhelmed by the unbearable malodorous funk. So without a word or notice - I bolted up and ran out of the car - leaving my poor roommate to fend for herself. At this point - I must say it is every man/woman for themself. Sorry Max. She was quicker than I thought and was able to exit the car behind me. We then ran to the car behind us and I was barely able to stick my arm in as the doors were closing. I was able to force the doors open into of course a jam-packed car this time for the both of us. I almost lost an arm this morning, but I don't think I would have made it and would have passed out if I had to stay on until the next stop. I would even dare say that Superman with all his super hero powers would not have made it to the next stop let alone Bob - in tights or not. Perhaps if I had a cape, then maybe...just maybe....because at least I could put that over my nose.

But anywho, back to yesterday's story.....but alas....my faithful readers - I can not continue anymore. Maybe tomorrow. I am still in shock and still feeling a little light headed and faint from the rude wake up call this morning. The smell still seems to be lingering in my subconscious or is it on the bottom of my shoe...hmmm...better check just to be sure.

Subway Fireworks Part I

2005-01-03T16:45:00.000-05:00

I wasn't feeling all that great on Friday so I just decided to stay home and watch Regis Philbin on TV instead. After the ball dropped, a roommate and I went upstairs to the roof deck to watch the fireworks. It was a little chilly and I wasn't properly dressed so we headed down after 10 minutes or so.

As for Saturday - I got up pretty late - grabbed a bite to eat - watched some college football - ate some more - took a long nap - watched some more football - ate some more - watched some more football - ate some more - watched more football - and then went to bed. And no I did not shower, I was in my jammies all day long. But I did manage to finally brush my teeth before going to bed. I think this will be my new tradition for every Jan 1st. Ahh....what a way to start of 2005.

For Sunday, I thought that I should be a little more productive than the day before. So I got up early - showered and BRUSHED my teeth before eating breakfast and watching some football highlights on ESPN from the night before. I then got my Sunday paper and headed to my neighborhood corner bakery for some coffee and a slice of NY cheesecake....hmmm....hmmm...good. After perusing the newspaper, sipping my coffee and savoring every bite of my cheesecake - I headed back to watch what else...but more football. I then felt inspired to go to a place that I haven't visited in a few days and that was the Snowflake show. I've been fortunate to arrive right before the show the last few times, so I got to watch two shows again. It is still crowded but not as crazy as before Christmas.

On the way home, I witnessed another fight on the subway. But this time - it was much more violent than the last one. It seems there was a guy, whom I thought was initally one can short of a six-pack, but just turned up to be a rude racist jerk. As the train was pulling away, an argument broke out at the other end of the subway car. He, a white male, started to call a black male stupid, ignorant and a few other things. I guess both were pushing each in an attempt to get on the train earlier. A lady stood up and yelled at both of them for being at fault and to cool it. The white male than started his tirade on her - calling her a this and a that and a dirty jewish *@!%*. Then another black man came out of no where and punched the white guy about 3 times in the face. By now everyone sitting/standing there was running towards my end of the car. Talk about fireworks for the New Year. But unfortunately my post is getting too long and you will just have to tune in tomorow for the conlusion of this story my friends......Till manana.....

10..9..8..7..6..5..4..3..2..1

2004-12-30T15:24:00.000-05:00

I haven't decided if I want to go to Times Square tomorrow night. I would like to get closer to where the action is as compared to last year . But do I really want to hang out in Times Square for 8 hours for 1 minute or really 10 seconds of excitement. From what I've been told and experienced - around 4:00 pm when they start closing the streets - is the latest to show up if you want a great view.

Some roommates and I decided to go at 9:00 p.m. last year - but by that time, the crowd was already backed up to 59th street by Central Park. Since most people will be off tomorrow along with the gazillion tourists - I don't know if I want to deal with the madness. I suppose if things go well for Bob, there is always next year.

As for my New Year resolutions - I will only have one this year. And that is to get a J-O-B and live the good life again. Just kidding, but not really. I am kinda ready to go back and join the rest of you guys in the "real world". Playtime is over I suppose ...sniff.... sniff....

Well, I hope everyone had a great year and an even better one to come for 2005. Till next year my friends - be safe and Happy New Year.

Not A Dream This Time

2004-12-29T15:42:00.000-05:00

After work yesterday, I headed to a retailer to buy a thin fleece zip up to help add another layer to my coats here. Coming from Texas – I don’t really have anything thick or warm enough for winter in NYC. After going there and of course finding nothing to my liking or within my budget, I decided to leave. And since I was kind of around the corner...oh say...only 27 blocks away from the Snowflake Show – I thought I would just go by and check it out - being so close to it and all.

Well as luck would have it I arrived just as the show was beginning, but the real treat this time was it was actually snowing during the show. So there were snowflakes everywhere - in the air, on the walls...very nice and cool. And since I was already there, I figured I might as well stick around for another show of course. As I was waiting, walking by me just happened to be one of my roommates. She was meeting her cousin for dinner nearby and decided to check out the tree and show again. Looks like we have another closet fan of a certain show.

A few minutes before the show was about to begin – about 4 police cars came blaring by. Looks like they were escorting two black vehicles. They stopped right underneath the snowflake show and parked right outside the entrance to Saks 5th Avenue. I can only assume some very important person was being escorted to either see the snowflake show or to shop at Saks. I would like to think it is the former and not the latter, but who knows. There was a ton of people across the street so I could not really see who this or these people were. Hmmm...I wonder if it was Mathew Perry?

Make Room On The Wagon...

2004-12-28T16:17:00.000-05:00

Hi my name is Bob and I am a Snowflake Show-aholic.

Sorry I haven’t posted the last few days - I was away at rehab. But I guess I’ve fallen off the wagon again. I saw it the other night with my friend from IN and I also admit that I was using him as an excuse to go see it. At first, I kept on telling myself that I could quit anytime I wanted, but I was only lying to myself. The addiction and the highs became more and more intense after every show. And when I would leave Rockefeller center the lows were painfully unbearable. I would always walk away constantly looking back to see if it would start again. I have already planned my evening errands for tonight to take me to Rockefeller Center. I know, I know, I know...I just can’t help myself - it is a sickness. And I’ve also caught myself constantly justifying and rationalizing my addiction by asking myself “Am I really hurting anyone by going to the show? I don’t think so…and where is the harm”? Besides, I only have about another week of the show and I might as well get in all I can before it is taken down - until next year...I can’t wait!

Also, my friend left yesterday – and boy, am I glad he finally left. He kept on hounding me to go back to get a haircut everyday since he met Holly. You saw the picture, he doesn’t have that much to trim, yet he wanted to come back every single day. Geez...some people...talk about being overly obsessed!!!!

Who Needs Mistletoe When You Have Holly?!

2004-12-24T18:13:00.000-05:00

Hello everyone, since I am at the Snowflake Rehab Clinic - I have a special guest blogger for your enjoyment today.

Dear fellow Bob fans,
If there are small children in the room...ask them to leave. The information you are about to read is NOT for children under the age of 16. I went to the Chinatown Barber. When he took me up a narrow stairway and I was the only non-Asian person in the room..I was alittle concerned. I wasn't sure what was going to happen. I have read those stories about the Asian Mafia in Chinatown. Maybe that is where Bob is always sneaking off to and why he seems to always have money when he is only getting paid $15 dollars as week. After getting in the chair and telling them why I was there, I felt somewhat relieved. And when the action started, I now see why Bob goes so often. Holly was INCREDIBLE! She spent 10 - 15 minutes giving me a back, shoulder and head massage that I will never forget! Her hands were so strong but delicate. She loves her job and knows how to please a man. She had me yelling out her name repeatly and I think I asked her to marry me. I have this strong desire to buy her a diamond ring. I was like putty in her hands. I think she is the single guy's answer to safe sex. I already feel the need to get my hair cut tomorrow. It is getting kinda long and shaggy looking! HOLLY... I LOVE YOU! Guys...if you are in town and feeling lonely...let Bob fix you up!

Sincerely,
Happy as a clam!

Those Little Elves......

2004-12-23T15:43:00.000-05:00

Well, it has been a very fun and full week for me. But the party is not over yet. I’m planning to go grab some good cheap food somewhere and go see The Incredibles tonight with some housemates. And if time permits - we will head to see – yes, the Snowflake Show. As for the rest of the extended weekend, I think I will just be lounging around and getting some rest and a few viewings of the Snowflake Show – yippee!!! And I am also planning to take my friend to my China Town haircut place. He has heard so much about it – he is just dying to meet Holly and experience her...ahem..."talents". I’ve got my camera ready – maybe a picture will be posted next week. Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, Seasons Greetings, Yaddy Yaddy Yadda....Have a great one my dear friends.

I will leave you with the top three Elf pick-up lines. Enjoy.

3 – No, no, no...I don’t bake cookies. You’re thinking of those dorks over at Keebler.
2 – I was once a lawn ornament for 'Nsynch. Want to meet them?
1 – Sure...I can get you off of Santa’s naughty list.

A Blowout, Some Snowflakes and A New Fan

2004-12-22T17:30:00.000-05:00

Last night, my friend from Indiana and I attended the Knicks game at venerable Madison Square Garden. The Knicks were playing Dallas and they got a good shellacking. They lost to the Mavericks by the score of 123-94. It was a blowout from beginning to end. But it was cool just sitting in MSG and taking in the action and the atmosphere. We even spotted Spike Lee sitting at his usual courtside seat. I have a picture of him posted below and trust me – it’s him.

After the game, we headed over to the "you know what". We got to see it 1 ½ times. The first show started about a minute before we got there, so he didn’t get the full effect. But I could tell that it whetted his appetite. I told him we could leave, but he INSISTED that we stay for another show. So after he twisted my arm for a while, I reluctantly agreed to stay for one more. To pass the time before the next show, we walked around Rockefeller Center and checked out this really "big tree" everyone seemed to be talking about. Then after an unusual delay, the show finally started. He "oooohed" and "aaaahed" the whole time just like a little kid at a 4th of July fireworks show. He wanted to stay for a third show, but I told him we had to head back because it was getting close to midnight by now.

As we were walking to the subway – he asked if he could see it again before he leaves town. So I suppose I will just have to oblige him. The things I have to do for people sometimes. I guess it is safe to say - I think we have another fan - and not of the Knicks either.

Dallas 123 NY 94

Spike in the white sweater

Correction - Bob.......Meet Regis

2004-12-21T16:33:00.000-05:00

Well - there was a little change of plans regarding our Late Show with David Letterman taping yesterday. Since it is Christmas week, they were on their holiday taping schedule. Which meant they were doing multiple tapings per day. So our show was pre-taped for Thursday night. We were told that this was the last show of the year and that this was his annual Holiday Extravaganza!!! And that this would be a great show and the audience was in for a huge treat. Unfortunately, we didn't get to see Bill Murray. The featured guest was Regis Philbin. He also had another actor - Jay Thomas on the show. He and Dave has an annual tradition of trying to knock off a meatball on top of the studio Christmas tree with a football. The meatball just happens to be from Rupert, owner of the Hello Deli. Also, the musical guest was Darlene Love. Dave was pretty funny and entertaining with his bantering with the audience before taping, and it was neat to see Paul Schafer too.

As for the show itself, there is a segment called "Know Your Current Events" where Dave will pick out someone from the audience to participate in. There are a few topics to choose from and after choosing a topic - if you answer a couple of questions correctly, you get a nice dinner gift certificate, cd and some parting gifts. All I can say is - a certain gentleman from "Texas" was selected, but I won't say "who". The category was Department Store Return Policy. And the answers are "15%" and "To remove all flammable liquids and materials". That is all I will say. To see "who" just happened to get selected, you will just have to watch Thursday's show to find out for yourselves.

As for tonight, it is off to the Knicks game and hopefully the Snowflake show. I know, I know....hard is life isn't it. Yippee!!!

Bob....Meet Bill

2004-12-20T15:08:00.000-05:00

Boy, was it cold this morning. I think it was -2 degrees with the wind chill. So I guess all of you down south can go ahead and rub it in my face for once. Go ahead....do your "hee-hee's" and "haa-haa's". I know it is nice, sunny and in the 60's there. It may be nice and sunny down there, but you guys don't have a snowflake show do you? Didn't think so.

As for this weekend, my friend came and we hung out and did what I've been doing best lately and that is EAT. Haven't had a chance to take him to the "you know what show" yet. But I did watch it twice on Saturday night before he got here. Maybe tonight, after sitting in on the Late Show With David Letterman, we can go. Oh yeah...you read right. We will be in the David Letterman audience tonight. So "hee-hee" and "haa-haa" right back at you. And who will be the guest on his show tonight you might ask? Well the musical guest is Kaki King - some new up and comer. And the featured guest....is none other than....Bill Murray! So it should be a very nice outing. We will be wearing some Ball State University t-shirts, which is David Letterman's alma mater. So hopefully they will put us somewhere near the front of the studio. Remember to check us out tonight if you can.

Jenny Craig- Where Are You?

2004-12-17T16:40:00.000-05:00

I am stuffed again. This seems like a weekly trend lately. We had our office pot luck lunch/gift exchange party today. Well, actually it was my ex-department’s party but I crashed it anyway. And boy, did I eat. I tried a little bit of this and a whole lot of that. Then even tried all the desserts…and some twice. I am beginning to see double because I am so fuullllll! I still haven't learned my lesson at these functions yet. And oh, as for the gift exchange - I got a nice gift that was number one on my wish list too. Yippee!!!

As for this weekend, my friend from Indiana is coming tomorrow and we have a few things planned for his stay. We will be going to - as you already know, a Knicks game, The Late Show With David Letterman, the Soup Nazi(if he is open) and of course – couldn’t forget….you guessed it…..the Rockefeller Snowflake show. And also every December, Central Park covers their lawns with snow for a winter festival. We will try to go cross-country skiing there one day too.

As for tonight, I may attend a gathering of my social language group. We will be meeting at a member’s house instead of a restaurant this time. It seems like we eat more than we learn at these gathering, but I won’t complain. I just have to roll myself out of the office first. Cheery-o my friends. Have a great weekend.

Bob's Top Ten NYC Moments

2004-12-16T17:35:00.000-05:00

Having been in New York City for over a year now, I thought I would share my favorite moments in this amazing city with you guys. So here goes:

Bob's Top Ten NYC Moments

10.) I don’t really have a # 10, but a Top Nine List just doesn’t sound right
9.) Running in Central Park
8.) Attending the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
7.) Rockefeller Snowflake Show(still can’t get enough of it)
6.) Getting Soup from the Soup Nazi
5.) Getting weekly goodies at the neigborhood bakery
4.) Going to a Yankees game
3.) China Town haircuts
2.) Going to see a Knicks game next week

and………Bob’s #1 NYC Moment……….

1.) Going to see The Late Show With David Letterman next week

Well, there you have it - please don’t be jealous. But I know you are – so I guess you will just have to deal with it.

P.S. – Mr. Ball U alumnus, I guess it will be me and you at the show.

Look Away From The Lights

2004-12-14T15:47:00.000-05:00

Burrrr!!!! It is getting a little nippy here. We are supposed to be below freezing for the next few days. Old Man Winter is definitely making his way to the Big Apple. I don't know what it is - maybe the cold weather, the anticipation of the first snowfall but I still seemed to be fixated on the Snowflake show for some odd reason. Maybe it's that addictive song that accompanies it but anyway - I thought I would share a glimpse of what it looks like for those who won't be making it to NYC this year. But before I do that - I just to prove that I am not the only one who is spell-bound by this show - check out this:

NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec. 10, 2004--Saks Fifth Avenue Enterprises today announced that it received a Platinum Award from Display & Design Ideas (DDI) Magazine in recognition of its "Snowflake Spectacle" - a light and sound show on its flagship's facade featuring 72,000 Philips LEDs that illuminate 50 giant snowflakes choreographed to "Carol of the Bells."

So there!!! I am not alone - at least one other person feels the same way. Without much further delay - enjoy if not the show than at least the picture.

Only In New York

2004-12-13T17:13:00.000-05:00

For some reason - I can never get enough of the Snowflake light show at Rockefeller Center. Last night after a few hours of shopping, and no - it was not for myself - I decided to stop by and observe that very addictive show. I stuck around to watch it twice because it plays every 15 minutes. And once again the crowds was maddening. You could barely walk especially with people and their baby strollers. I then witnessed a near fight between two adult males with their families in tow. I guessed one man pushed his stroller over the toes of one man and another man - who I think was his dad. So the two men started to cuss in Spanish at the other Spanish guy. There was a stare down and more words exchanged. And I will admit - while I don't know much Spanish - I do know a few of the dirty words. Funny how - we always seem to know only some of the nasty words in other languages. But anyway - back to the story. Luckily cooler heads prevailed on both sides - because the males had their wives trying to get them to calm down. They exchanged a few more glances while walking in opposite directions. Two cheers for the women.

This made me think of another incident that I witnessed last week on the subway. Again, it was very congested and people where pushing themselves into the subway cars. I was standing by the door - so I was able to witness what transpired next. One guy - who I will call Mr. A - kinda pushed himself into the car and some how made his way to be in front of the guy that he pushed - who I will call Mr. B. Mr. B then decided to push Mr. A back as the car was know chugging along. Mr. A turns around and then says - "Hey, You got a problem?" To which Mr. B. responded "Yes, yes I do", and then proceeds to push Mr. A again. So now Mr. B, who in my opinion - was within his right to get upset for being pushed first - then lost my support for being a total jerk. Mr. A. just kind of stood there not really wanting to cause any trouble. But Mr. B kept on provoking him by pushing him several times while using alot of profanity. Now mind you, these were two middle-aged professionally attired people - so that was a little shocking. And by now of course everyone is looking at the two as a scuffle breaks out on a packed train. Then we got to the next station and the doors opened - Mr. B pushes Mr. A off the train. Once again - in my opinion - I think Mr. B was in the right at first but in the end - I wished Mr. A would have just kicked Mr. B's butt - and I think he could have if he really wanted to. I guess there were no women around this time to break up the fight. New York is still New York after all I suppose. Ah....tis the season to be jolly isn't it!!!

Much Needed R&R

2004-12-10T15:21:00.000-05:00

Well, after a second 3 day workweek – I am ready for the weekend again. I am ready to just veg out, relax and do nothing. It is nice to get back into the swing of things and do some of my normal routines again. It started this morning with stopping by my usual street vendor cart for my Friday treat of a cup of coffee and a doughnut for you guessed it...$1. Quite a deal I must say. Then for this weekend, I will be catching up on some reading, watching a few movies I got at the library and getting a whole lotta sleep.

But first up for tonight – a friend emailed me about a concert featuring a band called Heathers with Quincy Tran as the lead singer. I think they are sort of a punk rock band, so I thought about checking them out. Then for tomorrow, I will be meeting another friend for some coffee and perhaps have a discussion about the movie - House of Flying Daggers. If you have not seen it, you are missing out. It is a visual treat for the eyes. Then on Sunday – if the weather cooperates – I will try to do something that I have not been able to do in a while. And that would be going to my favorite around the corner neighborhood bakery for my weekend treat while reading my Sunday paper.

I hope everyone has a great weekend. Be safe and be merry.

P.S. – Happy Birthday Mo

My Friends Heart New York Too....I Think

2004-12-08T16:14:00.000-05:00

Well I am back from the weekend and am more stuffed than a turkey during Thanksgiving. I had a real nice time with some friends and since they have already been to NYC before, I gave them the real insider’s New York City tour. But of course since it was Christmas, I did have to take them to Rockefeller Center to see the tree and watch the snowflake show – which they enjoyed tremendously.

I also took them to my little dumpling hideout, Magnolia Bakery, and my favorite - Ray’s Pizza. We also went to Serendipity – a little joint that had the most outrageously decadent desserts. You might have seen this place in John Cusak’s movie of the same name, Serendipity. The place was packed and according to the host - the minimum wait is at least 1 1/2 hours no matter what time you go. What a crazy place, but well worth the trip. We got a few desserts there including their signature item – The Frozen Hot Chocolate. We also ordered a few other things including a Black Forest Chocolate Fudge Sundae that was the size of your head. There was so much stuff that we couldn’t even finish everything.

Then they took me to see Chicago – the musical. Not as good as the movie, but still very excellent. The lawyer was supposed to be played by Wayne Brady of “Whose Line Is It Anyway” fame, but he was not performing that night. Too bad – he is very talented.

Then I took them to one of the Pizza Triumvirate of NYC – John’s Pizza on Bleecker. According to many, the three top places are Grimaldi’s, Lombardi’s, and John’s Pizza. Having tasted all three, I have to say that I was disappointed in John’s. For me, it just did not live up to the hype. It was good, but not what expected. I think Famous Original Ray’s, which is a chain was even better than John’s. I think that Grimaldi's is clearly the best, just my humble opinion.

They also wanted to do some ice-skating in Central Park. Only my second ice-skating - so it was a little scary, and although I came close a few times – I never fell down once. After that, I took them to Tom’s Restaurant from Seinfeld for lunch. And I also read on a major NYC blog about a soup stand in the Holiday Market at Union Square, it says - the stand has a chalkboard that reads “gourmet soup” with a list of their daily specials. Though the guys at the counter would not divulge who made the soup because of the purveyor’s concerns about quality control, they did say, “it’s from a famous name that is local to New York.” On the day that we went we tried the Tomato Cheddar and Wild Mushroom Barley, no Mulligatawny or Lobster Bisque, but they both were soooo good none-the-less. But alas, I finally went up to one of them and ask if he saw the same article I saw. He said yes and that the girl from that blog came back a second time for more soup, I then got him to admit to me in a low hush-hush tone that is in fact…..not from the Soup Nazi but from Hale and Hearty – which is a NYC soup chain. So once again…..No Soup For You!!!

Once again, I had an excellent weekend - this time with my friends and I hope they had a great time, at least I think they did. And also a very big thanks to them for indulging me – you guys are too kind and if I may say so, I think - you guys could not have picked a better person to indulge. Many, many thanks.

TGIF

2004-12-03T16:30:00.000-05:00

Today was a sort of crazy day all around - it seemed like I was doing a billion things today. I am so pooped and glad the weekend is here - even though I have only been here for 3 days this week! Contrary to popular belief, I do work around here you know. It is not all fun and games like you guys think. I get paid a very “nice” salary and I intend to earn my keep. With that being said - I will be going out to dinner tonight with a social language group after work and then I will head to the Upper West Side to drop of our broken computer. I found a guy that is currently unemployed and is trying to do random acts of kindness by fixing pc’s for free. Hopefully he is legit and he and the computer will be there when I come to pick it up next week. We shall see.

Also, some friends from out of town are dropping in early next week – so that means that I will not be updating my blog until mid-week. Sorry to disappoint all of my faithful readers but that is just the way it is. Have a great weekend everyone and stay warm.

P.S. For those of you who are planning to come to NYC in the next few weeks, I just got hold of some bad news. The Soup Nazi guy is renovating his store so that means…..you guessed it – No Soup For You!

Tree-mendous

2004-12-02T16:52:00.001-05:00

Last night after dinner, my roomies and I decided to stop by Rockefeller Center to see the tree. I saw the tree a few years back on a trip and it was just amazing this time as it was the last time. The bright lights made it so festive and Christmas-y. New York is just one b-e-a-u-tiful place during the holiday season. Everything is lit up and it just puts you in the Christmas spirit. I thought I would share these facts about the tree with you. And I also posted some pictures for those of you who won't be able to make it to NYC this holiday season. Enjoy!

 This year’s tree is a Norway Spruce

 It is 71 feet tall, 40 feet wide and weighs 18,000 pounds

 A 9 ½ foot star crowns the tree top

 The star is adorned with 25,000 Swarovski Crystals

 Glistening in the branches are 30,000 lights, held up by 5 miles of wire

 The tree is about 50 years old

 It was found in Suffern, New York

 It will be on display until January 6th

 2.5 million people will have seen this tree in person

 Rates for ice skating - $17 plus $8.00 for skate rentals

 Waiting time – ridiculously long but you can be entertained by a very cool snowflake show(see pictures) with accompanying music every half hour. Think Bellagio water show at Las Vegas – well maybe not quite.

Fa la la la la.....la...la...la...la...

2004-12-01T16:31:00.000-05:00

Well – I am back from my trip out west. Had a good time with the family and hanging out with my nephew and niece from Dallas. Also got to go play golf and go see The Scorpions’ concert in L.A. I’ve seen them about seven times now and really can never get enough. But alas, they – like most rock bands from the 80’s are getting old and will probably be hanging it up soon – much to the applause of many. But that will be a very very sad day for me personally – but at least I have seen them whenever I got the chance.

As for the rest of the weekend, didn’t do much - just ate and hung out with my siblings and mom. Kind of nice to just hang out and do nothing sometimes. Believe it or not, I am somewhat tired from all the traveling and things that I was doing in November. Ironically, my brothers were complaining how cold it was there. They had record lows the last two days I was there – upper 30’s, it is funny to see Southern California boys complain about how cold it was – and while yes – it was cold, this New Yorker couldn’t let them see that I was cold too. While the freakish weather in CA was more extreme, that it will be more the norm here or maybe even seem relatively balmy and pleasant when winter really hits. Seems like the bad weather is following me back to NY. It was very cold, damp and windy this morning - the wind is blowing about 25 mph with gusts up to 40 mph.

Last night some of us were thinking about going to the lighting of the tree at Rockefeller Center, but it seems you gotta get special passes or line up at 3:00 p.m. So I just saw parts of it on TV instead. Maybe next year. Tonight my roomies and I are going out to dinner in Greenwich Village. One of them – Double D, is moving to Vancouver and so we are taking him out before he leaves tomorrow morning. Then we may stop by to see the tree after dinner – if the wind hasn’t blown it away yet. Ah...Christmas has officially arrived in NY.

10

2004-11-24T14:31:00.000-05:00

That is the answer to the all consuming question that has been lingering in your head. 10 - that is the number of stores it takes to find a bag of Funyuns. Amazingly, it only took on stop in Manhattan - a store right across where I work to find a bag - Yippee!!!

As for dinner at Jack's last night - it was pretty good. They had a fully stocked wet bar - which was quite impressive. Then, for appetizers - we had buffalo wings, little pigs in blankets, shrimp cocktail and your assortment of chips. And for dinner we had mozzarella and tomato slices, green beans, baked ziti, and this baked chicken with veggies dish. Then to top it all off they also had an assortment of baked Italian goods – cannollis, napoleons, lady fingers, tarts and of course those yummy cookies. And I am also happy to report that there were no incidents either. A second yippee!!!

Well I am off to California to spend some time with my family for the next few days. I will also be going to a Scorpions concert - one last and very big yippee!!! - and either golfing, snowboarding or some off-shore fishing while I am over there. Take care - happy holidays and see you all next week.

How many stores does it take….

2004-11-23T14:38:00.000-05:00

… to buy a bag of Funyuns – those delicious onion ring snack? I don’t know, as soon as I find out – I will let you know. I volunteered to make green bean casserole for our Thanksgiving dinner with my roommates tomorrow night. And one of them has Celiac disease – meaning she is allergic to gluten – meaning she can’t eat anything with wheat in it. I usually top the casserole with fried onions in a can, but she can’t have that stuff because it has some wheat products in it. However, she can have it topped with you guessed it....Funyuns – believe it or not. Who would of thought Funyuns and Doritos too, by the way - contain no wheat at all? So anyway, last night I must have went to at least 9 different places including – grocery stores, drug stores, and convenience stores to buy a bag of Funyuns – and not one store carried it. Coming from Texas and living near Frito Lay’s(the maker of Funyuns) headquarters – I could just not believe there are no freakin Funyuns in all of New York. Strange and weird....but true my friends.

Also, tonight I am having dinner with my good friend Jack. That’s right, tonight I will be heading over to his apartment he shares with two other people. They are having some sort of pre-holiday meal and are inviting a few people over. There should be alot of people there, so I should be okay – but we shall see. Well, have a good day – I gotta go now – I’m off in search of that elusive bag of Funyuns. If any city in the world has everything – it has to be New York City. I refuse to believe that there is not a store with some Funyuns here. Every journey no matter how far - must start with a single step my friends and off I go....

In The Eye Of The Beholder

2004-11-22T16:01:00.000-05:00

Well on Saturday, me, my 2 roommates and about 15,000 of our closest friends waited in line to get into MOMA. The line wrapped around the whole city block between 53rd and 54th & 5th and 6th Avenues. It almost felt like crossing the finish line of a marathon once you got in. But once inside, the experience of MOMA and also waiting in the long line was something very cool and neat.

As for the art, the best piece of art that I saw was Van Gogh's "Starry Night". It was definitely very beautiful and colorful and it was cool to acutally see art that is considered a masterpiece in person. I also got to see Monet's Water Lillies, The Campbell Soup and Marilyn Monroe paintings from Andy Warhol and alot of Cezanne and Picassos. Now on the other hand, I saw quite a bit of sculptures and pieces that just really made me scratch my head and say "huh?....you call this art?" Now I guess you will have to excuse me for being a simple minded bumpkin, but some of those things I just did not get. And it made me think that if some considered this stuff art than that means that we can all be artists too. I probably would have appreciated it more if the artists were there explaining their concepts, but that was not the case. And so that left alot to the imagination. I guess it is true what they say - art like beauty, is definitely in the eye of the beholder. Guess I need to get some contacts or glasses or something....

Then on Sunday went out to do some shopping, eating and hanging out. Even though it is not even Thanksgiving yet, all the major department stores - Macy's, Bloomingdale's, Saks - already had all the Christmas decorations on display in their windows. All of them were very extravagant and colorful and oh so pretty. Then I went down to Chinatown for some dumplings then to SoHo for coffee and dessert and finally went to Herold Square where the flagship Macy's was and bought two shirts.

After the long day, it was time to go home and when I got there, Max had dinner almost ready. A very wonderful chicken-mushroom-rice casserole dish. Yummy. Capped the night off by watching Monster with Charlize Theron - now that was a very disturbing movie....It made me quite uncomfortable a few times, and I'm a guy. I guess you will just have to watch it for yourselves to find out why.....

Ray, Nick, MOMA, and A Latte..Ahhh

2004-11-19T16:30:00.000-05:00

Since this is the only weekend that I will be in NYC this month - I am planning to just hang out and about. Can't believe that I have been or will be out of town every weekend this month except for this one. It will be nice to just relax and take in the city.

As for tonight - my roommate and I are probably going to grab a slice from Famous Original Ray's Pizza and then go see National Treasure with Nicolas Cage. I've been dragging Max around town the last few months to see all the foreign, artsy movies and she said it was her turn to see a movie she wanted for once...some people - "it is always about them" - so as usual, I will be accomodating - because is just my nature and because it is never about me.

Then on Saturday - it will be a good time to gain more culture and refinement with some head tilting and saying "hmm...interesting...the colors...the contrast....the boldness...the vision...what a genius." Yep, I am thinking about going to the renowned Museum Of Modern Art. It is having a grand re-opening after a two-year $425 million renovation project that has just been completed. Before you say, "Not living very simple are you Bob?", for your information - the $20 fee will be waived just for tomorrow - so there!!!. The line to get in will probably be 10 miles long but if it is free - I am there. I've always wanted to go to MOMA and this would be the perfect occasion if I do say so myself.

For the rest of the weekend, I am thinking about going to SoHo for some shopping - well more like checking out all the cheap stuff the street vendors usually hawk down there. And of course it has been weeks since I have had a chance to do my Sunday ritual of sitting at the neighborhood bakery around the corner - getting a latte, a pastry and reading my Sunday paper. So nice to be in town for a change - enjoy your weekend. Cheers.

P.S. - Just Kidding Max

One Scoop or Two?.....

2004-11-18T17:24:00.000-05:00

Vancouver - what a majestic city. It is flanked by mountains, a temperate rain forest, and of course the Pacific Ocean.
With my impeccable timing and my usual good fortune - I just happen to be traveling when the Canadian Dollar is at a ten year high against the US Dollar. But with that being said - everything was still relatively cheap up north - except for......deli meat. That stuff was worth more than gold going for $15 dollars a pound. Crazy Canadians.....

As for the places that I went to - the best and most amazing place was called La Casa Gelato. I simply will just refer to it as "208". That's right it had 208 flavors of ice cream. Both Baskin Robbins and Chinatown Ice Cream Factory in Manhattan don't hold a candle or in this case a cone against this place. I went there on two of the three nights I was in town and I was able to sample about 100 of the 208 flavors. Besides the normal and popular flavors, there was - Death By Mango, Chile Chocolate, Spumonti, Apple Wasabi, Pear Gorgonzola Blue Cheese, Durian Jackfruit, La Dua, Pineapple Poppy, Green Basil, Wild Mushroom and oh about 198 other flavors. If you ever go to Vancouver that is a definite must-stop place. It is located in the middle of Vancouver's Little Italy and China Town. And a bit of advice, just get one scoop because you will be so full sampling all of the flavors. And plan on being there for oh...say...two hours or so before you finally decide on what flavor you want.

Also, having been recommended by a friend to try an exotic fruit called Mangosteen - I was on the hunt for these so called juicy delicacies. Having never eaten one, let alone seen one before - I had no idea what it looked liked. Finally I went to a store that had a sign saying what it was and I was able to purchase two small ones. Now, the big question after buying them was - how to eat these weird looking things. The outside cover is hard and leathery, and the name had the word mango in it- so I figured I would just bite into it. Boy was that a big mistake, it was the most bitter, tart and nasty thing I ever ate. I thought, maybe this isn't ripe yet and I was quite at a loss as what to do next. I thought about just tossing them and being done with it. But of course not - what did I do instead, I took another bite of course. I thought that it would somehow miraculously ripen between my first and second bites. Well of course it did not, and I was like forget it as I was mumbling to myself "thanks alot DC for recommending this to me". So as I was walking towards a trash can to throw it away, I sort of just poked and squeezed at it along the way. And as I was just about to throw it away, I noticed it had a softer interior and decided I might as well tear it apart it to see if it would look any different in the middle or would it be the same. After ripping it apart - I then noticed that there actually was an edible part of the fruit. It had white slivers of flesh on the inside that had a nice aromatic and exotic taste to it. Of course naturally, the second mangosteen was much more enjoyable and much easier to eat.

I also got to go see the salmon run, although it was almost the end of the season. There were still some stragglers but not alot. They also took me on a hike through the rain forest, across a suspension bridge and a gorge. The city was very scenic and b-e-a-u-tiful. All in all - the trip was quite enjoyable and relaxing - except for the mangosteen rind.

There's Always One....

2004-11-17T17:00:00.000-05:00

You know how no matter where you go – there is always one person that just talks way too much. And wouldn’t you know it – he was that guy sitting next to me on my trip to Vancouver Yeah - lucky me!!!!

When I got to my seat on the plane and was settling in – from the corner of my eye, I noticed that the guy next to me was looking at me with a big smile on his face and that he was just eager to start a conversation. At first, I resisted because I was tired and just wanted to sleep because I woke up at 4:30 am that morning. But as I finished settling in – he was still looking at me and I made the big mistake of turning to him, smiling and saying good morning. And that was the opening he was looking for and that is when the floodgates opened up. He then proceeded to tell me – how he was in an elbow war with the guy next to him on his last flight, and how he had to call the stewardess over to settle the dispute, how in 40 years - he has flown on every airline, how he has a nephew that is some big shot at AA and that whenever he mentions his nephew’s name to the AA staff - they would all poop in their pants – why was he flying Delta anyway(hmm…makes you wonder), how his wife is the grand daughter of a Mafioso don, how his wife also used pepper spray on another woman because she kept on poking her baby grand daughter too much while she was in her crib in the park, how he was a police officer in the past and that he once transported a criminal on a three day trip across the country and that he would not let the guy go on bathroom breaks and that the guy peed and pooped on himself for the entire trip, how he owns his own grocery store – yet likes to shop at this competitor’s store because it was closer to his house(another hmm…makes you wonder), how if you are ever traveling that the best bathrooms to use while on the road is Target,Wal-Mart, and Kmart – in that specific order, and how he never checks in luggage and packs everything in a one carry on bag and he would buy whatever else he needed once he landed. And that was all in the first 20 minutes of the flight – BEFORE WE EVEN TOOK OFF because of a delay. By this time everyone on the plane was sleeping, except for me and my new bestest friend.

So finally, as the plane was done taxi-ing and was now picking up speed for takeoff, I noticed for a split second - he was looking out the window. This is when I quickly put on my headphones to the cd player, closed my eyes and turned my head the other way before he could turn around. Ahh…the sound of silence, I think the whole plane let out a collective sigh of relief. I would take a peek once in awhile and would see him facing me wanting to talk again, but I did not dare open my eyes or even move. After awhile the stewardess came by serving drinks, and this is when I made the tragic mistake of opening my eyes and requesting a coke. He took this opportunity to start another rambling conversation with me, but unlike him – I WILL SPARE you and not put you thru what I went through a second time. Serves me right for being greedy and wanting a drink.

O Canada

2004-11-11T18:58:00.000-05:00

That’s right, I am on my way to Canada tomorrow and no – it is not because President Bush was re-elected. I will be going to Vancouver for a few days to visit some people up there, hang out, eat and take in the scenery. Yes, I know – I know, I can hear the sighs of sympathy from all of you. Thank you so much for your compassion in regards to the hard and tough life that I lead up here in NYC. It is not easy being me. So this means that there will be no postings for a few days until some time next week. Have a great one and I will try my best – as hard as it may be - to enjoy this weekend too. Toodles for now......

Reality Movies

2004-11-10T15:49:00.000-05:00

Well over the last few weeks, I have shared some random thoughts, raves and musings. Today I would like to share a rant that has been in my head for a few days now.

After reading the book Breakfast at Tiffany’s – I finally saw the movie the other day. Two major differences between the book and the movie were - the main male character in the book was just a struggling writer and not a struggling writer with a sugar momma on the side like the character in the movie. And the other difference being the main female character Holly got on a plane and left whereas in the movie she stayed with Paul. That got me to thinking about movies and their Hollywood endings. For some reason – most movies and especially romantic comedies, always have a happy ending that allows the audience to usually leave the theater with that warm and fuzzy feeling. You have your basic formula of boy meets girl, boy gets girl, boy loses girl, boy finds girl again, boy and girl lives happily ever after. They don’t ever show you what happens to these people after all the lovey-dovey butterflies in your stomach feelings have subsided and that they are probably now sick and tired of each other. Almost all the time - these movies are very unrealistic and always end at the moment where everybody is happy walking hand in hand into the sunset. But with the wild popularity of all the reality tv shows out there – it made me think. Yes, contrary to popular belief – I do think from time to time you know. So as I was saying – I was thinking that they should also make movies more realistic so that it can really reflect real-life circumstances and scenarios.

So I have come up with a few movie ideas for sequels to some very popular romantic comedies of the past and have given them a more realistic spin of what happens to the characters some time after where the original movie ends. So here goes. First up is a sequel to When Harry Met Sally called When Harry Left Sally. The story picks up about 6 months after the movie ends and Harry finally realizes that they are truly better off as friends and not as lovers. That it is really him and not her - so he decides to dump Sally and hopes that they can still somehow remain "friends" and goes off to find his true soulmate. Another one is the sequel to Sleepless in Seattle called – Sleepless in Seattle 2 – Because You Snore And Hog All The Covers. The story picks up about 7 years later when they are married and have a few kids together. Tom Hanks character is now fat, balding and likes to sit at home watching football on the weekends. While Meg Ryan’s character resents the fact that she has had to give up her career to be a housewife doing all the cooking, cleaning and child rearing without any help from Tom. And while they still "love" each other - they are not "in love" with each other anymore. They have succumbed to the normal mundane routines of daily married life, and are just really staying together for the sake of the kids. And finally the last one is a sequel to Pretty Woman called – You Were a Pretty Woman. This plot picks up about 2 years later where Richard Gere’s character has grown tiresome of Julia Roberts’ character and decides it is time to trade her in and upgrade her for a younger and more attractive model. So do you think that I can start shopping these ideas to Hollywood any time soon or do you think I am just jaded, cynical and bitter? Well jaded – definitely yes, cynical - maybe just a little, bitter - not at all, can you tell?

See Spot Run. See Spot ......

2004-11-09T16:30:00.000-05:00

For some reason or another I had the privilege to witness another “hmm…did I really see that” event on my way to the subway this morning. There was a man casually walking sideways towards me along the curb. I noticed him because it seemed as if he was squirting something on the street from a bottle in his hand – but he was kind of doing it somewhat discreetly and suspiciously. So this kinda grabs my attention – although now knowing what transpired next – I wished that I hadn’t paid him any attention at all. As I got closer to him, I still saw him continuing to squirt something as he was walking. I’m like “What is he doing and what is he squirting?” Occasionally, I see employees of a store clean the entrance and sidewalks where the store is, and since this was right outside of McDonalds – I thought he was cleaning the sidewalk. So by now, I am only a few feet away I noticed that he was not cleaning the sidewalk and that he then tucked something back inside his pant’s zipper. What he was doing was peeing on the street while walking along the curb – doing it as nonchalantly as if this was something everyone did on their way to work. Now mind you, this was in broad daylight at around 8:45 am – with people hustling and bustling getting to work. He was not a wino or a homeless person, just your average Joe. Ah….nothing like a sight like that to give you a jolt to wake you up as you shake your head in befuddlement. But the next time I see something like this, I will now know to just keep looking straight ahead and to mind my own business. One thing about this city – it never ceases to amaze me. I guess if dogs can pee on the sidewalk, so can we right?

The Milky Way - And Not The Candy Bar

2004-11-08T16:28:00.000-05:00

I am back – refreshed, renewed and definitely fatter. The weekend was great. We went to a retreat center in Northern Massachusetts – about 3 ½ hours from NYC. The accommodations were exceptional and I was the only one to get my own room. Not that I am that important or anything – but because I have the good fortune or misfortune I suppose of being a very loud snorer. I can make the roof vibrate from what I have been told. But I don’t believe a word of it, because quite frankly – I have never heard myself snoring, so therefore I think that it was just all made up. But anywho – we were in a rural area and high in the mountains – the change in scenery was quite nice. The night sky was magnificent, I have never seen that many stars in my life. The sheer number of stars on a clear night in the country was amazing. I even got to see the The Milky Way (click link) for the first time. It is just a huge swath of stars and cosmic matter that gave out a nice soothing eerie glow. I also got to see a few constellations - Orion, Cassiopeia and The Pleiades. Kinda funny thing was - there were so many stars that I could not even find the Big Dipper. Coming from OK and TX – that was usually something that you always noticed first. We were also pampered and fed quite well over the weekend. It was a constant gorge fest with 3 meals a day plus midday snacks. Must have gained at least 10 pounds – but alas – back to P&J sandwiches now. We also got to soak in the hot tub for a few hours on a chilly autumn night, which was very relaxing and therapeutic at the same time. Kinda sad to leave, but kinda excited to go back to NYC – because there’s no place like home.

Dinner and Golf Anyone?

2004-11-05T13:20:00.000-05:00

The other night, my roomies and I all went to a mixer event that featured a viewing of the new movie Ray staring Jamie Foxx. Now I had heard great reviews about the movie and thought it would be good, but it was not on my must see list. And let me tell you, boy – was I blown away by the movie. The movie in my opinion, took a few liberties regarding some of his inner demons – but a great movie none the less. And you can already put it in the bank that Jamie Foxx will WIN an Oscar for Best Actor for his portrayal of Ray Charles. Go see it, if you can – you won’t be disappointed. And if you are, too bad….

Moving on…yesterday I went to another post-graduate volunteer fair that I mentioned about in an earlier post. And when I got there, who was the very first person that I bumped into – that's right, Jack. Seems like his table is next to mine again and so of course we chatted off and on again throughout the night. This time I just made sure that I went to the bathroom when he was busy talking to other people. And also, come to find out he is a big golfer and he asked me if I played too – to which I answered yes. So now, besides the lunch invite, he has also invited me to dinner in a few weeks at his place with some of his roommates – and looks like we may be hitting the links in the spring next year too. Wow – what a nice and swell guy – wouldn’t you agree?

As for this weekend, my housemates and I are going to a spa/retreat center in the mountains of Vermont near the border of Massachusetts. We are leaving today after lunch and won’t be back until Sunday night. Ah….what a life I tell you. For all of those who are jealous – and I know you are – you are all more than welcome to come join me here. We are always looking for a few good people. I can’t guarantee you a spot – but I will try to give you “da inside hook-up”. Have a great weekend. I will be sure to think about you guys while I am sitting in the hot tub/jacuzzi.

P.S. – Good luck to my friend Mo – who is having lasik eye surgery today, hope everything goes well. Of course you won’t be able to read this anytime soon though.

Peeping Jack

2004-11-03T15:01:00.000-05:00

In the last few months, I have attended a few post-graduate volunteer fairs in the Midwest and this week – I am attending a few in the NY state area. So yesterday, I was at a small private college in upstate New York and ran into a fellow recruiter that I have met from previous fairs that we both attended. The tables at the fairs are usually set up alphabetically – so he has been next to me on a few occasions and we have talked quite a bit previously. He lives in Manhattan and had told me earlier to give him a call and have lunch sometime so that we can share some recruiting ideas and talk about our respective organizations. He seemed very nice and was a pleasant chap, but I have been kinda busy to call him for lunch. So as it was ending, we chatted a bit and he told me again that we should meet up sometime. I said sure and the both of us went about packing up our belongings and said goodbye.

Now this is where the story gets interesting my friends. As I was leaving, I had to stop by the little boys’ room. When I go in – who do I see – but Jack, the guy that I have been talking about. There were 3 urinals and he was at one end so I choose the one on the other end. Now as some of you male readers out there know, there are times when men will talk to each other as they are taking care of their business. When this happens, I just usually talk while staring straight ahead at the wall - rarely do us men talk facing each other. But on this occasion – Jack decides to turn to me and talk about the next fair coming up tomorrow. I didn’t want to be rude so I reluctantly turn towards him to converse. So as we are talking, something happens that I am still uncomfortable sharing with anyone – let alone my whole reading audience. But I think you guys deserve to know – so here goes. What happens next was a bit strange because not only did it happen once….or twice.…but three times. Yes THREE times!!! As he is facing me – he suddenly glances down and stare at my privates and continues to talk to me as if we were sitting at a bar shoot’n the breeze – he then looks up and acts like nothing happened. At first, I am like "hmmm, wonder what he is looking at – do I have a stain on my pants?" Sure I think it is kinda weird, but I did not want to nor did I allow myself to think otherwise. Then, as we are still talking – he does it again a second time. This time, I am like – "okay….this is getting a little weird and I am getting uncomfortable now – and I have black pants on so there can’t be a stain!" Then he glances up for a few seconds and looks down for yet a third time. At this point, I am like "DUDE!!! Hellooo.…I’m not looking at your thingy – why are you looking at mine?" So now I am finished with my business, I quickly - flush the handle, wash up and already half way out the door before I yell out "see you Thursday" as the door is hitting my butt as I race out of there. You can bet I am making sure he is not in the restroom tomorrow when I go in. I feel so violated. Hmmm… do you think I should still call him up for lunch though?

Trick Or Treat

2004-11-01T16:15:00.000-05:00

Yesterday I attended The 31st Annual Halloween Parade In The Village. It was quite interesting, saw just about anything and everything. Besides the floats and bands, this is one parade where anyone can join in on the festivities. Anyone dress in a costume can march in and be part of the parade. There seemed to be a more political theme in this year’s parade for obvious reasons. A lot of people dressed up in Bush or Kerry costumes. But I think by far - the most non-political costumes were characters in the Kill Bill series. There were a lot of girls dressed as Uma Thurman in the yellow jumpsuit, that Japanese girl with the ball and chain, and numerous guys dressed as members of the Crazy 88s in their black suits, masks and swords. After the parade, I went and got a slice at Joe’s Pizza. If you have seen Spider Man 2, this is the pizza shop where Peter Parker worked at as a delivery boy before he was fired. They are planning to shut down that location in The Village because of the rising rent next month, so it was very cool and neat to eat in it before it closes it’s doors forever.

Well, tomorrow the big day is finally upon us. After months and months of debates, rhetoric, and campaigning – Election Tuesday is at hand. It seems like the only focus is being given to the so-called swing states, especially - Florida, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin. Just who are these people in these swing states anyway? Does this population really represent the whole nation? Probably not, but for now, all eyes are on these states that hold they keys to this election . Who would of thought that the retired Amish dairy farmers of the country will have the final say in who the next president is? Kinda weird, scary and unfair, but until they get rid of the electoral votes system and go with the popular vote – I guess that will have to do for now.

So whether you will vote for Bush or Kerry, - notice I did not say Nader – go out and do it. Don’t mean to offend the Nader supporters out there, but we have to be realistic here. He has NO CHANCE of winning, and to me – casting a vote for him makes no sense. To borrow words from the candidates - "This would be the wrong election, the wrong candidate, and the wrong time" to vote for Nader. This presidential election has been one of the most contested, heated and important one in many many years – so make your vote count. And whether the next four years is a Trick or Treat for you – that depends on you going out, doing your duty and casting that ballot for your candidate. So go out and vote!!!

Nightmare On Bleecker Street

2004-10-29T15:58:00.000-04:00

Well, last night was a little crazy. My roommate Double D and I went to the theater at around 6:00 for a 7:30 screening of Saw. By the time we got there, the line was already ridiculously long. Finally around 7:00, they started to let a select group of VIP guests with special passes in, but for the rest of us peons we still had to wait it out. It was now about 7:15 and we still haven’t moved yet, and by this time the natives were getting restless. A man behind us went to the front to see what the deal was and came back to report that they only had about 70 seats left and that there was still a ton of people ahead of us. And that everyone might as well just leave. Well of course everybody was telling everyone else that they might as well go home, but nobody left. Everyone was hoping for the people in front of them to leave but no one was fooled and they weren't going to fall for that little trick. Now it is about 7:45 and people are really beginning to get upset and I guess enough of them bugged the guard at the door enough that he just flung it open and told them to go for it and every man for himself. Problem was there were more people than seats. So everyone, including myself started to run up the escalator towards the theater to find a seat. But the manager had somehow charged up to the top and forced everyone back down. And this is when the near riot broke out. People were cussing, yelling and hollering. They wanted a free pass or some kind of compensation for having to wait so long without being told that the theater was already full. Part of me wanted something too, but part of me was saying – people get a grip. The promoters never promised that everyone would get in. Imagine that, people nearly killing each other going to see a movie with a lot of killing in it. Hmmm…maybe these people shouldn’t be going to see these types of movies, how about catching Shark Tale instead people– just my humble opinion of course.

Dejected, my roommate and I decided to go to this little place in the West Village on Bleecker St. called Magnolia Bakery. For those of you who haven’t heard of this place, they are famous for, of all things - cupcakes – they are like the Rolls-Royce of cupcakes. This bakery was already popular but became a New York institution when it made it onto an episode of "Sex In The City".

So anyway, when we got there – we walked into another frenzied riot like atmosphere like something out of a movie. Only a few things scarier than yuppies on a sugar fix, I tell you. People were all over the place grabbing all sorts of cupcakes already on the tables and counters. They are so popular that there is a one dozen limit for everyone. And each cupcake was $2.00 - that’s right $2.00, kinda pricey in my opinion. The way people were acting, you would have thought the bakery was giving everyone $2.00 for every cupcake they wanted instead of the other way around. For that price, I thought they would be like the size of grapefruits and if not, at least the size of a muffin. But they were just the normal standard sized cupcakes. I paid for mine and had to fight my way out of the store so that I could enjoy my little treat. Two bites and ten seconds later, I had to say, I was pretty dang disappointed - I thought they were just okay. The frosting was good, but the cake was very dry – I would have thought it would have been more moist. Funny thing was, as I was saying this to myself, a guy next to me finished his and said to his girlfriend/wife – "hmmm…I thought the cupcake would have been a little more moist." The whole night was kinda crazy. Amazing what a bloody movie or the need for sugar will do to some folks. Well - have a safe and Happy Halloween.

Not That There Is Anything Wrong With That

2004-10-28T16:22:00.000-04:00

Yesterday on the way home from work, I hopped on the E as usual and try to grab a seat on the train when possible. So after about 2 stops, a seat opens up and I go to sit down. However, the person next to me had their little fancy-schmansy bag resting on the seat. So I just said "screw it" and plopped my big butt down so that I can read my paper and enjoy the ride. I gave him a few seconds to move it but he chose not to, so what else is a guy suppose to do. Well anyway, the person who the bag belongs to turns to me and gives a "Hummph..." and a roll of the eyes. He was dressed in his all black Versace outfit looking very metro-sexualish. He was seating at the end of the bench on the train – so he then proceeds to cross his legs and cram himself far away from me as he could and as close to the bench railing as possible. The nerve of him, acting as if I got a bad case of cooties or something. To make matters worse for him, I then had to sneeze and this made him scoot down even further but being at the end – he just had no more room to go. It looked as if he only had one butt cheek on the seat and the other one in the air. This just had me cracking up on the inside and telling myself this serves him right. By now, I just had to turn to see just who this dude is, and immediately I notice he is one of those Queer Eye For The Straight Guy wannabe kinda guy. He was definitely very feminine and gay - "not that there is anything wrong with that"….From there I just chuckled and ignored the guy and continue to read my paper. But the story continues my friends. For those of you who have ridden the subway, you know that it can be very bumpy with a lot of turns. And at every turn that would force his body towards my direction, you could tell that he had to put extra force on himself to lean the opposite way so that he would not touch me and get my "cooties". Eventually I had to get off and transfer to another train for the rest of the ride home. As I was waiting for the R, it made me start to think – was he acting like that because he was a snob or was it because he was gay – once again, "not that there is anything wrong with that". And before all you cynics out there reading this start to say, "Well Bob, it’s neither and maybe its just you", well let me just say ha ha ha…funny….I would like to think that it was just him being all snooty and well okay – I admit maybe because I do have a small case of the cooties – but just a little though.

As for tonight – I am back out on the red carpet of NYC. Two of my roomies and I are going to a free sneak preview screening of "Saw". It is a new horror flick from the makers of Seven and is being billed as the scariest movie since The Ring.

"The terror has started immediately, and won’t relent until the final frame. No, make that the five minutes after the final frame." – Phil Villarreal, ARIZONA DAILY STAR

This review gave me mix feelings – excited because it sounds so good and scary. Skeptical because, just who the heck is Phil Villarreal anyway? But anywho, I am sure the movie will have a few scary scenes and hopefully I won’t jump onto either one of my roommate’s laps – as was the case in the past. Oops…did I say that out loud. So tune in tomorrow to find out how it was. Have a good one.

When Bobby Met Holly

2004-10-27T16:27:00.000-04:00

Well, last night I went to get my haircut/head massage and some very cheap food. I went to the other highly recommended dumpling house that was tucked away in a little section of C-Town on a narrow alley that I have never been to before. As I was heading into this seedy area of town, part of me couldn’t help but feel a bit intrigued and the other part of me felt as if I was about to do something shady. However, once I got there, the sweet aroma of fried dumplings warmly welcomed me. I originally only wanted to sample the fried dumplings but I couldn’t resist the fried pork buns that were sizzling alongside them. They both were very excellent and now I may have to go back to other dumpling place to compare the two. I topped it all off with a box of low-mein being sold by a street vendor in his make shift cart on my way to the hair salon. Mmm…Mmm…Yummy for my tummy.

I then headed to the salon that I was going to when I first moved to NYC that was recommended by a girl who I worked with down in Big D. She used to live here and pointed out this hidden and inconspicuous gem on the edge of C-Town. In the last few months, I have tried a few different places - but nothing has enticed me to return for a second visit. You know how that goes….sometimes nothing compares to the original no matter how many other places or things you have tried. At this place - the hair stylists are decent, but what sets them apart is the shampoo/head massage girl. When it is your turn, you first sit upright on the barber chair and she squirts some shampoo on your head and then she slowly squirts some water next and works the hair until a very frothy lather forms. Then this is where the magic and the seduction begins. I almost gave Meg Ryan a run for her money in the diner scene in When Harry Met Sally, with my own table pounding - foot stomping experience as I closed my eyes and was in total bliss the moment Holly’s hands touched my scalp. Nothing compares to those long nails digging ever so gently into your scalp, those firm yet delicate knuckles rubbing your temples, those powerful slender fingers squeezing the back of your neck and shoulders - but my favorite although very ticklish part is when she wiggles her fingers in my ears when she is rinsing out my hair. Another minute longer of this stuff – and the next guy waiting in line would have probably said give me two of whatever he’s having.

1 box of low-mein, 4 fried pork buns & 5 fried dumplings - $3
Haircut with a to-die-for head massage - $10 + $5 tip
Having my own "Sally" moment – Priceless

P.S. The five dollar tip was split $2 to the stylist and $3 to Holly – and YES, she deserved and was worth every dollar of it.

I Heart NY

2004-10-26T16:37:00.000-04:00

Well, let me just first start off by welcoming a few new readers to my blog. All of you are my inspiration, the fire that keeps me going, even when I feel as if I can’t do it anymore. Thank you, thank you, thank you...Ouch...that was me slipping of my little self-made pedestal there. Ahem…moving on. There were a few comments about me living it up here in the Big Apple. While that may seem to be the case, and sometimes it is – but for the most part, I must admit it is not. Most of the things that I do are free events. That is the one great thing about NYC – there are tons and tons of things to do here. And yes, while a lot of them do cost money, there are a few that don’t. You just have to be resourceful, persistent and you can’t be too picky or selective. It is not all glamorous stuff as it seems my friends, but it does take a little adjustment in your attitude, perception and a whole lot of imagination to make any free event become your own red carpet gala.

However, with that being said, I am off to get more fried dumplings for $1 at another place that was highly recommended in C-Town tonight because I need a long overdue haircut. And everyone knows that you can’t get a haircut along with a 10-minute head massage cheaper anywhere else in the city. In other words, I am having my own poor man’s spa day – for we all need a little pampering once in awhile, do we not…Why pay $100 somewhere else when you can do it for $10 right? Ahhhh…there is no place like New York, NY.

Just As I Expected.....Not

2004-10-25T15:47:00.000-04:00

Well, unfortunately the art show that me and a roommate went to was not really an art show – but more of a welcoming party for an international artist. Not what I really expected. So no head tilting with hand on chin this time. The artist is from Vietnam of all places. She is on some sort of art exchange program. She will have her gallery showing in December. She spoke quite good English for being a foreigner. I was able to meet her and got a special sneak preview of some of her artwork. Also, we got a chance to meet some very interesting and nice people. Of course there were your standard starving artists, a few up and coming artists I suppose and a lot of their friends. We also met a very nice couple there. She was actually the one who invited me to the gathering. She started a social group that I joined and so it was nice to finally meet her and her husband.

We suckered them with our sob story and they fell for it. Yippee!!! It got us a round of drinks at a local bar and we were able to catch the rest of game 1 of the World Series. No, just kidding about suckering them, they were very nice peeps. This also gave me a chance to finally go to Williamsburg. This is supposed to be the new Soho/Greenwich Village. Because those two areas are so expensive to live in, Williamsburg has become the new art haven for the up and coming artists. It was a very nice, hip, cool and trendy little spot and I will have to go back again just to hang out at some of the local joints there.

Spent the rest of the weekend lounging around, going to my favorite neighborhood Italian bakery for my Sunday ritual of coffee and dessert. I also read “Breakfast At Tiffany’s”. Ooops, I meant a “friend of a friend” read it and told me all about it. Okay, I will admit, it was me – but it was definitely interesting. I thought this was the story where the girl and guy was supposed to meet at the top of The Empire State Building and where she gets into an accident on her way there. But nope, this was not that book. So once again, this was not what I expected when I got to the end. But it was still very interesting and I will have to share an excerpt or two in a following blog posting. Also saw – Coffee and Cigarettes. Definitely not as good as I expected or even what I expected, again...do you see a theme here, but oh well – what can you do?

An End To The Curse?....

2004-10-22T15:35:00.000-04:00

The Yankee nation is still in mourning from the greatest collapse in baseball history. Everywhere you go, people are either talking about it, getting mad at talking about it, or just can’t bear to talk about it. Many people including my self – can’t believe that they lost the series after going up 3-0. However, I wouldn’t mind seeing the Sox win it all because I think they deserve a World Series Title. They have not won since 1918 and have been plagued by “The Curse” of the Bambino. Anyway I have to admit, although I do like the Yankees – I am just a casual fan and not a die-hard one. I guess that is because I am not originally from NYC.

Well not much planned for this weekend except for a little art show that I am thinking about attending. Trying to do that - get more culture thing again. It will be in Brooklyn, so it will be nice to be in that part of the city. I suppose I will go there, walk around and fold my arms with one hand on my chin, tilt my head just a little and say hmmm…interesting a few times.

One a side note, it is beginning to get chilly here and you know what that means. Soup Nazi and ice skating at Central Park or at Rockefeller Center time!!! Have a great weekend.

Things That Make You Go Hmmm...Part I

2004-10-20T16:22:00.000-04:00

I am starting something new in my blog called - Things that make you go hmmm....From time to time I will post just some random thoughts that hopefully - makes you go hmmm....And I am just really pooped today.

- Why does your feet smell and your nose run?

- Is Freedom, really free?

- Why are there flotation devices under planes instead of parachutes?

- What's another word for "thesaraus"?

Have a good one.