revafisheye

My first Mermaid Parade

2007-06-29T10:50:00.000-04:00

Nearly twelve years later and I'm still having New York firsts. I've finally participated in the annual Coney Island Mermaid Parade. Peace pal Nadette and fellow cyclist/activists organized a group called Super Sassy Something Something Seahorses Swarm from the Sweltering Sea. It was overly alliterative, mildly political, and wholly fun.

The incredibly talented Ian Hart designed these deceptively intricate seahorse heads to mount on our bikes.

Nadette lovingly made one for me so I could play too.

The line for those who pre-registered but still needed the mark of the mer was long, but allowed for 30 minutes-or-so of glorious crazy-gazing.

In the midst of my snapping, I got a bonus: King Neptune, Adam Savage and Queen Mermaid, Patti D'arbanville! I thought they were just random freaks, but no. They're celebrity freaks.

We joined the parade on the boardwalk between some adorable sailor girls who frequently showhttp://www.blogger.com/img/gl.link.gifed their bums and a group of mildly enthusiastic mermaids in pasties. I think the pasty girls were annoyed at the attention we got from the crowd. The people loved us and we were clothed. I felt kind of bad for them and the sunburns they were getting on their boobs.

When we made the jog to the Surf Ave. leg of the route, we made a pass around parade to join forces with the Rude Mechanical Orchestra. They are my new favorite band ever.

What a blast. Again! Again!

Open letter to young men who bathe in Axe or Tag or any other manfume/ Confidential to the young man who sat next to me on the PATH this morning

2007-04-20T16:40:00.000-04:00

You are adorable in your homeboy hip-hopness: your ubitquitous baggy jeans, oversized baseball cap with the sticker on the brim, loose-fitting racing jacket, bright yellow walkie-talkie style phone. You smiled at Snack and held out your hand for him to smell it. But that gesture, while sweet, was unnecessary. We both, and everyone on the train, smelled you before you boarded. How delightful for us that you chose the seat next to Snack.

I can tell by your face you are a nice kid. You are polite to your elders, help your younger siblings with their homework, and you like animals. That right there is a mark of a good person. It is with the sincerest desire to help you that I share this information with you.

No amount of body spray covers up the smell of ass. It may mask it for a moment, but when the smeller has recovered from the asthmatic irritation of your entrance, the undertone of ass remains. As Natalie Dee advocates, when you wash, wash the butt too. Once clean, there is no need to bathe again in manfume. Don't believe the marketing. That shit is like bug repellent, but instead it repels chicks. And dogs.

Yours truly and sincerely,
revafisheye

Ride to End All Wars

2007-03-21T13:10:00.002-04:00

Riders convene at Dag! Plaza

Hey, that's my bike!

Fly-by of marchers on 42nd St.

Nadette and Olive, the peace pug

Subway Fact #1

2006-11-17T12:01:00.000-05:00

There are 650 miles of active track in the NYC subway system.

Source: The tour guide who led a group of fanny-packed tourists to the World Trade Center site via the E train this morning at the same time I was going to the WTC PATH station via the E train this morning.

Unjaded New York Moment #3830

2006-11-16T13:19:00.000-05:00

This is story may only be interesting to me, but I don't care. That's how not-jaded I am.

Yesterday, I took Snack for his morning walk, dodging cables and dollies and Teamsters setting up to shoot Law & Order: Almond. Then I saw Kathryn Erbe; that meant Vincent D'Onofrio was around somewhere. My mood instantly shifted from one of
"get the hell out of my way, people live here" to "oh my god is that him?"

Snack and I walked all the way around the block and no Vincent. Oh well. I went back inside to "work" from home.

About an hour later, my roommate was getting ready to leave for an audition. I mentioned the filming and quipped (yes, I quip sometimes), "When you see Vincent, remind him that it's '2R' and I'm here all day." Dan assured me he would pass along the message. About 30 seconds later, the phone rang. It was only Dan.

"They're shooting right now. Across the street."

I grabbed Snack's leash, called the pupster and ran out the door.

Oh, we pretended to walk...for about 10 feet, but who was I kidding? Imaginary boyfriend #3 was right there. So I did what anyone still wearing pajamas at noon would do; I sat on my stoop and watched. Katie and Vince were doing a walk-and-talk scene down the sidewalk across the street starting at the convent and ending directly across from my building. Where I sat. With my dog. Gawking like a tourist. And I swear to Maude he looked right at me.

The only other time* I've been that squishy about a celebrity was watching Jesse L. Martin and Jerry Orbach shoot a scene for L&O: Plain on the steps of the church a few doors down, but those were two different kinds of squishy.

Confidential to location scouts for L&O: Peanut: Mariska and Meloni would give me the trifecta. See what you can do about that.

*slight understatement - I'm not a freakin' robot. I just learned from years of waiting tables that celebs are just like regular people, and just as annoying. The secret is to keep your distance.

Happy Election Day!

2006-11-07T11:43:00.000-05:00

Election Day puts a spring in my step no matter how disenfranchised I feel in the months prior, nor how despondent and saddened in the months after. I'm in love with democracy and its external trappings.

Freedom

Have you voted yet?

2006-11-07T10:46:00.000-05:00

Do it.

Happy Halloween and Dia de los Muertos

2006-11-01T10:36:00.001-05:00

brought to you by the New York State Unified Court System.

Cat reports that, while I was at a Halloween party last night, the pumpkin I carved (see above) went on a date with the pumpkin she carved. The mummy window decoration was the chaperon. Cat took pictures. Hopefully, she'll pass them along before they carry her off to Dorothea Dix.

Where's Keith Haring when you need him?

2006-10-31T11:43:00.000-05:00

How I felt yesterday

2006-08-15T14:51:00.000-04:00

God smites own car

2006-07-21T14:27:00.000-04:00

In an apparent insurance scam, God smote his own Honda Civic, on loan to the Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, during a thunderstorm this past Tuesday evening. Officials are still uncertain whether wind or lightning was the tool of the compact car's demise. Eyewitnesses reported a loud cracking sound as the tree uprooted from its mooring in a small bed on the south side of W. 51st Street, narrowly missing Sacred Heart of Jesus RC Church as it hit the ground. The tree blocked traffic for several hours as a police emergency service team cut the smashed Honda free using a chainsaw. The sisters were seen gathered around the car to give last rites as police arrived. God was questioned and released pending further investigation.

Asthma is sexy

2006-04-12T09:31:00.001-04:00

Huffing up the stairs

Chicken Heels

2006-03-26T22:52:00.000-05:00

Reveling in the Carolina sunshine and a show-well-done (in my new p'jams)

at the Sports Experience Holiday Inn, Chapel Hill

Chicken Ranch returned to UNC-CH for the annual Carolina Comedy Festival, featuring the likes of Lewis Black and Nick Hornby. This is our second year at the fest, and oh, how we love those Carolina folks. Jonathon, Andrew, Brian, Andrew and Brian, and the rest of the CUAB gang make us feel like rock stars. Angela my best friend Angela, apparently had nothing to do with the festival this year, but I think she undersells herself.

Me, Amy (noon) and Angela (3) on the stage of the newly "transformed" Memorial Auditorium

Check out the chickenblog for further photos, updates and commentary.

Oh, and Nick Hornby is my new imaginary boyfriend.*

*temporarily taking the place of Stephen Merchant, sidekick/writing partner of Ricky Gervais. What can I say? I'm fickle when it comes to funny Brits.

Haunted by the ghost

2006-03-17T12:16:00.000-05:00

of Shane MacGowan.

Jen's boyfriend, Gary, got us into the sold-out Pogues show

48th row, center

The Pogues stir it up on St. Patty's Eve

Can you see the striped scarf? It's draped over Shane MacGowan's shoulders. He staggered, howled, and slurred something about Brokeback Mountain for two hours, never losing his feet.

If Shane MacGowan had been sitting where we were, this is what I believe he would have seen.

Despite, or perhaps because of, the near debilitating inebriation of Mr. MacG, the Pogues put on a bloody good show; though by the time we left the venue, I felt as if I'd been rubbernecking.

Bittersweet.

In case you were wondering

2006-03-16T15:11:00.000-05:00

Snack is still cute.

Windswept at the dog park

Benchsitting

Since I finally have one of these

2006-02-20T16:20:00.001-05:00

I can visit one of these.

It's the Blizzard of 2006!

2006-02-12T13:11:00.000-05:00

We must overreact! Stock up on supplies! Get staples, like bread and milk and bottled water.

Or just go to the corner deli. It's open.

The Great and Powerful Oz

2006-02-10T11:59:00.000-05:00

takes the subway.

Adorable overload. Cannot compute.

2006-01-28T13:15:00.000-05:00

Snack and Bidet snoozing w/Dan

Before

During

After

Snack

2006-01-22T15:23:00.000-05:00

Fed is the winner! His suggestion "Snackleby (Snacks for short)" inspired "Snack," which makes me giggle everytime I say it. Cindee affirmed my decision by cooing, "He's so cute, I could just spread him on a cracker and eat him." Of course, that statement made me contemplate the name "Cracker" for a moment. But Snack it is.

Snack's first trip to the dog run

Running with the little dogs

Sniffing some Chihuahua butt

Sorry. This is going to be about the dog for a while.

No Disney names in my house

2006-01-19T16:52:00.000-05:00

Dan and NotSimba after a walk in the rain

It's a long established rule. So, I asked some of my "comedy friends" to help rename the adorable NotSimba. This was mostly for my own entertainment (I had a couple of names floating around my brain), but to my surprise and great joy, it worked!

Here are some of my favorite suggestions.

submitted by Amy
Thimble (kind of like Simba if you have a lisp)
Mr. Whipple
Mooshi mooshi
Swayback Wilson

submitted by Michele
Sydney (from the Tony Randall show)
Beauregard JP Burnside (from Auntie Mame)
Miracle Max
Bonanza Jellybean

submitted by Sarah
bean dog
harry hamlin
kissin' spot
Mr. Pants

submitted by Cindee
Nambla
Chivas
Butternuts
Roger Clark

submitted by Stanny!
The Mysterious Dr. Glickstein
Puppystiltskin
Bobby Cordovan
Strunken White

submitted by Tony
Mickey
Minnie
Pluto
Walter M. Disney
Michael Eisner
Cinderella
That other character from Cinderella
The Little Mermaid
Lilo and Stitch

submitted by Chris
Style! (Then you could ask the Con-Ed guy, "Do you want to see my doggie, Style?")

submitted by Ashley
Moonpie
Dr. Gilbert (that's my gyno's name)
Lt. Caffey (I think that's a character in A Few Good Men)
St. Cutie Britches

submitted by Federico
snackleby (snacks for short)
scrabbles
"The Grange"
captain jazbo
goran
ivan "ironman" stewart

submitted by Kristin
Woofman Jack
Muscles LeBeau
Puffs Plus
Pie

submitted by Rachel
Raskolnikov
J. Edgar Hoover

submitted by Jeff
CUTE*
Senor Snowpants
Chiclet
The Freshness
Chucklemint

NOT CUTE
Killfloor
John Wayne Gacy

*My definition of cute includes the sub-category "nauseating"

I mulled over this list for several days, turning various names around in my head, trying them out on NotSimba. Finally, one took hold.

This list is being maintained as a database for future pet-naming needs. Please contact Crumbles Snowpea, ESQ at Barker and Meowsky, LLC A Paw Firm to inquire about royalties and permissions.

You can take the Jersey out of the girl...

2006-01-17T23:59:00.000-05:00

Dumbfounded on my stoop

See previous entries, "Can't you wait?", "Summer Tuesday" and "What is it with this town?".

I got a dog!

2006-01-15T17:54:00.000-05:00

His name is Simba for the time being.

My co-worker, Michelle, and her husband, Michael are moving to London. A combination of airline regulations and England's 6-month manditory quarantine for all dogs entering the country prevents them from taking their adorable pups across the pond.

Rooney, the black, 3-year-old Pomeranian/Chihuahua mix, has moved in with our friend Tamara and her two boys. Simba, the fawn, 15-month-old Pekingese has come to live with me.

Michelle, Simba and Michael

They brought Simba in from New Jersey this afternoon. We met outside and went for a walk with Bidet before introducing him to the apartment. He seemed to take to the city bustle pretty well.

Michelle and Michael felt comfortable in my apartment, and were thrilled Simba would have a partner in crime. It was a bittersweet, tearful exchange; I'm beside myself with excitement, but my heart breaks for Michelle and Michael.

Simba

They left after about 20 minutes, unable to drag out the goodbyes any longer. Simba wimpered at the door for a few minutes before he crashed from the excitement. He is so precious, I can barely look at him. He only weighs 8 pounds for Pete's sake! At long last, I have a dog of my very own. I will love him and hug him and squeeze him and call him...

Hmm, about that name...

The smell of Freedom

2006-01-14T17:17:00.000-05:00

Cabbing to an early morning rehearsal

This morning, my cab was odiferous with the smell of Freedom, which is oddly reminiscent of Lysol and Designer Imposters Obsession.

Scott took a cab from LaGuardia to my pad this afternoon, and was sure his cab driver was boiling shrimp.

I'll take Freedom.

Fare thee well, Michelle

2006-01-13T23:59:00.000-05:00

And thanks for the dog!

Sometimes it's cool to look up

2006-01-11T23:59:00.000-05:00

Waiting for the bus on 10th Avenue and 16th St.

Chickens are back at the Ranch

2006-01-07T12:48:00.000-05:00

New year, new frontiers...Chicken Ranch circled the wagons for our first rehearsal of aught-six. The Pit was never so much fun at 9:30 in the a.m.

After rehearsal, we plotted world domination at a diner on 28th and 7th that we never knew existed.

We're ready. B'gawk!

Happ-y New Year!

2005-12-31T23:59:00.000-05:00

Paws and mary janes anxiously awaiting aught six

So busy juggling guests and dogs, I was remiss in my photographic duties this New Year's Eve. Luckily, I invited Kelly.

I did manage snaps of a few of my guest revellers:

Cindee and Dave

Dan and Auggie

and, of course, the food.

After too much champagne, the details of the evening are a bit cloudy, but I remember it was a festive, doggy, friendly, sagey evening. I think everyone left before I fell asleep, but I'll have to ask Dan.

Happy 2006!

J&O Christmas 2005

2005-12-25T12:46:00.000-05:00

Everyone knows Jews and Orphans love Christmas; our little tribe gathered at Michele's to celebrate Jesus' big day like we always do: with food. Bored with the traditional turkey and accessories, Mo whipped up a little beef something or another* with mashed potatoes and haricot vert (they were too delicious to be called green beans). Stan and I ate faux beef strips with mushroom sauce. The meal was capped by my notorious red velvet cupcakes, a batch of German chocolate for Michele's mom, Millie, and a Greenie for Millie's adorable Sheltie, Hero.

*It was fancy (and the hit of the party), I just can't remember what it was called.

Chef Michele

Hero and I are stuffed and covered with confetti

Due to a computer malfunction on my end, instead of my customary Jews and Orphans Xmas Mix, we were serenaded by the all-holiday channel on Sirius Satellite Radio. Since a mom was present, it was likely a fortuitious happenstance; and I can always save it for next year.

After dinner, Kelly surprised everyone with homemade Christmas crackers (the traditional British party favors, not Ritz) filled with tissue crowns, beaded name charms, and robot cartoons.

Michele and Stan

Kelly and Cindee

Jeff and Dan

Millie

Hero

Then we let Hero* do the dishes.

Happy, merry, Jews and Orphans everywhere!

*Stan

Ferry Christmas

2005-12-22T22:07:00.000-05:00

Waiting in the ferry terminal

Leftover party favors from the office holiday party. I clearly missed a good time while I was in NC.

Transit strikes back

2005-12-21T17:10:00.000-05:00

Walking through Central Park

Damn it. I work in Jersey City. Not only do I have no trouble getting to work, I am justified in riding the much nicer, convenient (but kind of spendy) NY Waterway Ferry to the office.

I did have to walk from a cat sitting gig on the Upper East Side to my therapy appointment on the Upper West and then home to Hell's Kitchen. Yeah. Not a good story.

Cheese lightning

2005-12-19T17:09:00.000-05:00

Returning to New York in Seat 6A, American flight 1048

The in-flight snack

Make your own knitting needles

2005-12-19T11:23:00.000-05:00

I looked high and low for size 13 double pointed knitting needles while visiting my family in NC. There were none to be found anywhere, so I made my own (plus Dad and I got to bond over a trip to Lowe's and discussion of appropriate power tools for the job). Ultimately, mujerisma was the only power necessary.

Oak dowl rods (3/8" = approximately size 13 (9mm) needles), tape measure, pencil

Measure and mark dowl every 8"

Cut dowls with saw

Make dull points with a pencil sharpener

Sand until smooth (I used fine sand paper and followed with 000 gauge steel wool)

Hold your awesome needles aloft in victory

Show off battle scar with pride (blister from pencil sharpener)

Unto you a child is born!

2005-12-18T22:53:00.000-05:00

Lukey the shepherd

Laine (in dark blue) and Levi (in dark brown) the wise men

The cutest nativity ever

Remember that book, The Best Christmas Pagent Ever? Okay, well, I do. This one was better than that one.

Kids love hats as much as toys*

2005-12-18T20:57:00.000-05:00

Luke in the SnB Umbilical Hat

Levi in a slight variation of the Umbilical Hat sans cord

Laine in a striped rib knit cap

The most surprising reaction was from Laine: "Aunt Leigh, these are pretty colors!" He put the hat on and went back to playing with his new Transformer. About 20 minutes later, he looked up and said, "Aunt Leigh, I have to take my hat off 'cause I'm hot."

They like them; they really like them.

*okay, almost

Christmas comes early

2005-12-18T17:07:00.000-05:00

Mom puts the finishing touches on the tree

Laine, Levi and Luke wait patiently for presents from Aunt Leaf

I got to play Santa this year

Me with Luke in the gift-ermath

Mom and Dad share a chair in the chaos

Ben helped Levi build an awesome helicopter

The five Angels pose for the customary squish-on-the-couch photo,

and circle up for a new photographic tradition.

Sarah Day!

2005-12-17T23:59:00.000-05:00

The main reason for my pre-Christmas trip to visit the fam was to celebrate Sarah's birthday. My baby sister only turns 28 once, after all.

Her boys were happy to help her eat cake

and open presents.

Uncle Ben (Ubee to avoid rice references) made the trip as well, bringing the whole family together (and made the trip by bringing a fifth of whiskey to share with the non-teetotallers. Read: me).

In pre-Sexual Revolution style, the men played poker in the living room, while the women and children played Yahtzee in the kitchen.

Happy birthday, Saresy! You've come a long way.

Crafty nirvana

2005-12-17T17:03:00.000-05:00

Among the chiffons at Mary Jo's

Miles

and miles

and miles of fabric.

Mary Jo's Cloth Store is a Gaston County legend. Originally located in my hometown of Dallas, NC, the mammoth fabric and craft store moved to Gastonia in the late 80s to accommodate its thousands of out-of-town shoppers by being closer to Interstate 85. On this trip I only needed a knitting needle, but any excuse will do. Mary Jo's is heaven. Crafty heaven.

Now bring us some piggy sammiches

2005-12-16T21:55:00.000-05:00

That night, I joined my family and members of their church for Christmas caroling. A lot of people had lost power from the storm, so we brought food and blankets along with tuneful treats like "Silent Night" and "Joy to the World." Then we went out for barbecue (twice in one day is cool when one enjoys good bbq so rarely).

Singing with Dad

...Sarah

...Levi

...and Laine

Sarah, Dad, Mom, Levi and some lady with a hat

The Carolina Carolers

After the last house on our route, our dulcid tones lured a Rottweiler into my sister's minivan.

There's always room for another voice in the choir.

The Ice Storm

2005-12-16T14:45:00.000-05:00

North Carolina had mild, yet noticable winters. Just not usually in December. The evening I arrived at the family homestead for an early Christmas vacation, I expected relief from seasonably chilly New York. Within hours, ice rained from the sky onto heads and powerlines.

Mom and I played Rummikub into the night as the storm raged.

The next morning, I found myself stranded by parents who have jobs and know how to drive in inclement weather. The bluster continued throughout the day and night.

Crunching through the backyard

Then it disappeared as abruptly as it came.

No longer housebound, I went out for Christmas shopping and drive-up barbecue.

Tommy's BBQ, Dallas, NC

The car hop didn't blink when I asked for a slaw sandwich with no meat. "Oh yeah," she drawled, "You wanna slawburger? Shore, honey."

"Slawburger" (coleslaw seasoned with barbecue sauce on a bun - a vegetarian delight)

I also ordered hushpuppies

and a Cheerwine.

Vacation is for driving and eating.

Kittyville hat

2005-12-13T13:24:00.000-05:00

For Jen's birthday. She's wanted it ever since she got me the Stitch n Bitch book for my birthday last year. The pattern can also be accessed here. Mrowr!

I knew it was you

2005-12-11T17:33:00.000-05:00

No feet; just weirdness.

Do you ring the bell if you're psychic; or do you ring the bell to bring your presence to a psychic's attention. [insert if-you're-really-psychic joke here/]

Happy birthday, Jen!

2005-12-10T23:59:00.000-05:00

Jen, the birthday girl and I go toe-to-toe at Skee-ball

My college housemate/adorapal Jen had her birthday party at Dave and Buster's (Chuck E. Cheese for grown-ups) at the Palisades Mall in West Nyack. Our other college housemate/adorapal Andrea came in from Philly for the event. I have to say I was apprehensive. I'm not much of an arcade person, but after filling my belly with greasy theme-restaurant fare (and beer), then kicking ass at Skee-ball, I began to feel more comfortable.

Jen!

Post Skee-ball, Andrea and I went in search of other adventures. I discovered that I do not belong on a Harley.

Tooling around like I was James Dean

Dre and I bellying up to the bar

After a tutorial from the waitress at dinner, Andrea practices displaying her wares.

Having exhausted the "adventure" games, Dre and I finally found our niche at

Before long we were making a killing in prize tickets, wiping out the competition in every round. Leave it to the nerds.

Happy birthday, Jen! After 15 years of friendship, I want to you know two things: I love you and you can always have all my tickets.

First real snow

2005-12-09T11:35:00.000-05:00

Love.

It's finally cold

2005-12-05T23:16:00.000-05:00

Time for the first winter knitwear of the season: hat and mittens for the Kwakos' 15- month-old adoraboy. The hat is a variation (happy accident) of the Stitch 'n Bitch Umbilical Hat pattern; the mittens are from a free pattern on the Lion Brand yarn website.

Annual List of Thanksgiving

2005-11-25T14:13:00.000-05:00

Michele and I giving thanks for wine

and
the urban family
my traditional family
the Chickens/Gs
new/old job
Wednesday
Columbus Branch of the NY Public Library
NY Waterway ferry
health
feet
vegetarian sausage
therapy
panda cam

Vegetarian sausage balls - almost just like Gramma used to make*

Stanny! and the vegetarian T'giving platter

The hostess with the Mo-stest

Michele's mom, Millie, and Nathan

No secrets from the family, Libby and Nathan

Paul, Kelly and Dan - just before the Celebrity/Balderdash Bloodbath

*Gramma is not a vegetarian.

Happy birthday, Kristina

2005-11-20T21:19:00.000-05:00

The nineteenth of November was a big day: Cindee, Dave and I saw The Modern Kids and Centralia at Chashama;

Centralia on the big sheet

Sipping wine in the house

then I strolled downtown to Kristina's impromptu birthday party at Bowery Poetry Club, where I managed to capture several foot blog debuts.

Michelle (noon)

Brookie (ten)

Sam (eleven)

and of course, the birthday girl

Kristina! (noon)

Sam was relieved that Kristina had made a poorer choice in footwear:

Winter-time flips vs. old sneakers? My smart black oxfords win (mostly because they make me 2.5 inches taller and keep my pants from dragging the ground).

Kristina, thanks for a great party. You are adorkable.

Ear Candy

2005-11-18T23:59:00.000-05:00

Preparing to rock at Arlene's Grocery

After the art show, Cindee and I popped over to Arlene's to see our pal Betsy rock the night fantastic with her band, The Booty Olympics.

They were so awesome, I had to go back inside to find my face after the show.

(l to r) Palmyra Delran, Mitzi Dodge, and The Lovely and Talented Betsy Todd

The L&T Betsy Todd laying down a tasty bass line

You should check out these fine ladies. I mean, if you like kick-ass rock.

Eye Candy

2005-11-18T23:57:00.000-05:00

Artsy

Cindee invited me to an art show, Toy2R, organized by her roommate Sephrah. Sephrah's husband Bill also had a piece in the show. It was something about Japanese toys, something about art, and something very cool.

Monkeys, bears and skulls. Oh my. (click photo - see kitty)

Bill Riley and creation (click photo for close up)

This one made my eyes turn to hearts (click for Cindee's favorite)

Doink! (Go ahead, click this one, too.)

Fitting, given my recent obsession with the Panda Cam

They're putting the books in!

2005-11-10T14:47:00.000-05:00

Stopping by my (yes, my) library on my way to work, my heart almost exploded when I saw...

books!

Yay!

There are more than two options

2005-11-08T11:47:00.001-05:00

Election Day 2005. NYC.

Bloomberg? No. Ferrer? Hell no.

So many choices

Rent Is Too Damn High party? I like his theme song, but...

I vote with my heart and my head.

That's respresentative democracy, baby.

It's official.

2005-11-03T11:34:00.000-05:00

My submersion into office culture is complete. I've filled out my insurance forms, attended two co-worker birthday potlucks, occasionally goofed off by blogging my feet

and

I purchased Tupperware.

In my defense, it was more from nostalgia than office politics. Growing up, this is the style of pitcher we had for iced tea. Y'all come on over and I'll pour you a glass.

Sunday Pants

2005-10-30T23:59:00.000-05:00

Excitedly awaiting brilliance

Michele made her Cartoon Network voice-over debut in an animated short, Freshman Clowns, on

Mo's devotees gathered at Jake's Saloon on 10th Ave for the event. Unfortunately, the guy in charge of the multiple TVs couldn't figure out the sound. We watched the probably hilarious cartoon with Sunday night football audio. Oh the humanity.

Sure, Michele, that was you. We believe you.

Food Court Druids at Prom

2005-10-29T23:59:00.000-04:00

To celebrate their birthdays and Halloween, Rachel and Kristen hosted a prom-themed costume party at Beauty Bar. (Almost) all the Chickens were there, and oh, we had a ball.

This Goth is no wallflower.

Kristy dances with guidance counselor Mr. Warth

Prom king and queen, Jeff and Rachel

Too cool for school, Mary Kate Olsen and her bodyguard (Tracy and friend)

Dr. Oddbody (Adam) with Amy and her prom date, Joe

Joe got fresh; Amy liked it.

Various sub-cultures were also represented at prom.

Comic book/sci-fi geeks: Violet Incredible and Capt. Kirk (Cindee and Dave)

Food Court Druids: Sarah and me

and the just plain-weird: Libby as a corsage

But at Rachel's Birthday-Halloween-Prom, everybody gets along.

Happy Halloween!

Gia il sole dal Schweds

2005-10-26T23:59:00.000-04:00

Happy birthday, Rachel Cathedral!

Rachel's giant feet and my tiny ones. Perspective is cool.

Rachel performing with Evel Cathedral teammates Stan and Chris

You are an impressive sun-god Rah on stage, and a beautiful sun-gal Rachel off.

Walking on peanut shells

2005-10-24T11:59:00.000-04:00

A break in the rain - basking by the river

After work, as a FAW (friend of AdWeek), I joined Cindee and her co-workers for maragaritas at

Rodeo Bar.

Co-ink-identally, MJC was there was with his co-workers, too. He was off to see one of our favorite bands, Mates of State. Jealous much? I stuck around Rodeo, enjoying the live bluegrass, Solo cups of icy, limey, tequila-y wonder juice, and kitschy decor.

Hey, I voted for that guy when he ran against Hillary.

Sunday in Sunnyside

2005-10-23T22:27:00.000-04:00

With Tracy (left)

I spent a lovely Sunday afternoon with a dear friend, Tracy. Many months usually separate our meetings, but we always seem to pick up right where we left off. She invited me to her place in Sunnyside, Queens, and whipped up a delicious banquet of pumpkin soup, mac and cheese, and broccoli. We ate, drank tea and talked like girls for hours before venturing out for dessert.

Returning from our decadent outing, Tracy discovered Cookie had been in the closet all day; but he (she?) didn't seem particularly upset by his (her?) captivity. Caesar joined us, perching on the coffee table until, time to go for real this time, I finally tore myself off the couch.

With Cookie (left) and Caesar

Miss T, I promise I'll call you soon. Promise.

Cat-in-sink sitting

2005-10-18T16:33:00.000-04:00

A couple of weeks ago, my pal Evie sent me a link to Cats In Sinks (not to be confused with Stuff on My Cat). While she was in Colorado this past weekend, I dropped in occasionally to check on her own adorable feline, Lucy.

Last night, I filled Lucy's food dish, rinsed out and refilled her water bowl, and put out a few treats for her before returning the rather absorbing book I'm reading. Lucy purred around my feet for a bit, then meandered into the kitchen. I looked over (so maybe the book's not that absorbing), there she was, drinking from the faucet. Did I mention I'd just filled her water bowl?

When she realized she was busted, she tried to play coy.

Oh, Lucy. Next time, I come over, I make-a you a nice-a spaghetti.

What is millet?

2005-10-16T14:16:00.000-04:00

Delicious, that's what.

Photographing the chefs du jour

Last night, my dear friends, Nadette and John, hosted a cooking class/dinner party led by

the adorable and informative Melissa (pictured with Michele).

She prepared an entirely organic menu of carrot-ginger soup, herbed green millet, Sunshine salad, and almond apricot cups. The gathered chopped, grated, boiled, blended and drank wine* under Melissa's kindly watchful eye until we had a beautiful, healthy meal.

Nadette and Tom

Jon

I wore my homemade mutant ladybug apron for the occasion.

The food was delicious and the company divine.

Olive joined us for dessert.

*Wine not a part of Melissa's healthy menu, but part of Nadette's and mine.

River deep, mountain high

2005-10-13T19:05:00.000-04:00

Watching a sailboat take on the wind and rain from the JC pier

The Hudson River is quite swollen from the 8 solid days of rain we've had. Perhaps illadvisedly, I took the ferry home from Jersey City this evening. The ramps from the pier to the dock pointed skyward, rather than earthward, even under the weight of commuters. I'm still feeling a little wavey. Tomorrow I'll take the train.

Another plastic bag bag

2005-10-10T22:19:00.000-04:00

I made this one for my friend Cindee's birthday. I love how the black deli bags look with the yellow Gristede's bag handle and trim. The flower was made from this quick little pattern on the Lion Brand website. All my friends want one of these now. I've got to start eating more.

Get some cull-chah

2005-10-08T23:04:00.000-04:00

Cindee, Kelly and I ventured out in the rain Saturday to the David Zwirner gallery in Chelsea for a showing of one of Cindee's favorite artists, Marcel Dzama. The exhibit, entitled "The Course of Human History Personified," was predominated by watercolor and ink drawings based on Dante's Divine Comedy. The paintings contained repetitive images of dismemberment, suicide and masterbation next to pleasantly contented onlookers under bowers of roses and bird-filled branches. Just the way of the world I guess. Also on display were the artist's notebooks (I love a good doodle) and about a half-dozen oddly whismical sculptures.

Culture quota satisfied, the three of us retired to Half King for repast and deconstruction.

The other D

2005-10-04T23:59:00.000-04:00

With enduring patience at the Nokia Theater

Funny story! Cat's son-in-law Dave is in a kick ass band The Explosion, that has opened for Social Distortion in the recent past. The other night Dave called and told Cat the band had been offered comps from Social D for their Tuesday night show in NYC. Well, of course, the Explosion guys were all over that, and they didn't have an extra for Cat. Instead Cat and I tried to get standing room tickets for Spamalot, but were smacked down.

Figuring our evening a bust, we went to my place to regroup and think about what to do. Then the phone rang. Kelly's boyfriend Paul had been given two tickets to Social Distortion by his boss, who was unable to attend. She and Paul weren't interested, so they offered them to me. Evening saved by rock n roll (and an overbooked photographer)!

Cat and I hauled it over to the brand-new Nokia Theater on 44th and B'way and met up with Dave and The Explosion guys; we arrived in plenty of time. The opening bands ranged from pretty okay (Bullets and Octane) to horrifying-parody-of-a-punk-band (Mest). Our endurance was worth it; SD rocked our casbahs right out of the joint.

(if you look closely, you can see the smoking/drinking skeleton mascot backdrop)

Since you can't see just how hot Mike Ness is from my amateur photography, feast your eyes about here:

Mmmm...

What else is there to say? Great band, great night. The only topper would have been getting backstage shots of Mike Ness' feet; but Cat didn't want to be the annoying mother-in-law. No worries. I hate talking to famous people anyway. I'd rather admire from afar.

Reveling in the rock-n-roll hotness

Hmm...what else can I do?

2005-10-01T19:20:00.000-04:00

I used to be afraid of these.

So much did I want to avoid writing Saturday, that I did my laundry instead. While my clothes aggitated, I wandered my ever-changing neighborhood with my camera.

Reconstructing 10th Ave.

Confidentially to the New York Public Library - Columbus Branch:
Put the books in already! I've been waiting for two years for you to reopen my (yes I said "my") branch. I've payed enough in overdue fines since 1995 to have my own.

Thank you.

Brunch gals

2005-10-01T13:46:00.000-04:00

Enjoying the Aegean Scramble (Cat) and the Capricorn omlette with horseradish cheddar instead of goat cheese (me) at Popover Cafe

The Pop Kids (Debbie, Nasser, Joanie, Dan)

Cat's visiting from Miami, so of course we went to where our crazy friendship-ride started: Popover Cafe. We (along with my roommie Dan) met waiting tables there 6 or 7 years ago - Cat's theory is that we worked there soley for the purpose of meeting such longlasting friends. Since then, I've had 4 or 5 different jobs, and Cat has moved 8 or 12 times. She may be onto something.

Not colors for food...

2005-09-28T17:08:00.000-04:00

This way...

What are these?

Seriously. What?

These are not colors for food. Unless that food is icing.

The Adventures of Leigh and Michele: The Tale of the Careless Commuter

2005-09-27T21:34:00.000-04:00

Awaiting rescue

I do not have keys to my office, nor do I have an ATM card. These seemingly unrelated realities have been, until this evening, no more than occasionally inconvenient. Twice reminding myself not to, I left my train farecard on my desk, walked out of my office, closed the door, walked down the stairs and out onto the sidewalk. I was the last to leave, all doors locking behind me with no way back in. My wallet contained 2 quarters. I live in Manhattan and work in Jersey City, New Jersey.

I can almost see home from here

Before I could formulate a reasonable plan, Michele called my cell phone. I told her I would walk from Jersey City to the George Washington Bridge to gain pedestrian access to my island home, but she assured me that was a ridiculous idea. She offered, instead, to come get me.

Purchasing 3 tickets for the ferry from 38th St. to Colgate/Jersey City, Michele lived the adventure of so many bi-state commuters. I read on the pier, enjoying the seaside breeze and cotton candied view of Manhattan until she arrived.

Michele checked in with me, via my new cell phone every step of the way. "I'm getting on the bus to the pier. Okay. Bye." "I'm in the ticket line at the pier. Okay. Bye." "I just missed the ferry. Okay. Bye." "Another ferry is approaching." "I'm on the ferry." It made the wait that much more exciting.

The city lights on both sides of the Hudson sparkled for us as we transversed the river homeward. We giggled about how much fun being stranded can be when you have good friends. Michele is my own little FEMA, but cuter and with swifter reaction times.

PS - More last-days-of-summer feet adventures.

Somebody crafted for me!

2005-09-26T00:26:00.000-04:00

For the last few years, I have made all of the gifts I give people...birthdays, Christmas, just because...and yesterday, I RECEIVED a crafty gift.

My friend Kelly made me a bulletin board out of a vintage Clue board game (Clue is my favorite!). It's so fantastic, I just had to share.

Thanks, Kel!

I bop, you bop, we bop for Cindee

2005-09-24T23:59:00.000-04:00

(from noon) Dave, me, and in the center of the universe, where she belongs, the birthday girl, Cindee.

IBop Karaoke: byob, but no jumping allowed.

Cindee "Walking on Sunshine".

Amy serenades that "Sweet Child of Mine" (ours),

and the Chickens get "All Fired Up".

Oh, those summer (not really, but for the sake of the lyrical integrity) nights...

Happy birthday, Cindee! You put a smile in my heart and a song on my face.

Old job, new perks

2005-09-23T16:13:00.000-04:00

Working very hard at my ginormous desk

Newly decoupaged office-supply-lazy-susan

Festive bulletin board, with 1 work-related item

My freelance employer has officially hired me full-time. For the first time in my adult life, I have health insurance, a 401K and paid vacation. The icing is that I love where I work; and I know just how lucky that makes me. Very.

PS - Coming soon: Feet Over Indiana, LBI with SLT, and Movin' On Up with Amy and Adam.

"Meh" to "Yes ma'am!"

2005-09-19T17:47:00.000-04:00

Over the weekend, I decoupaged the office-supply-lazy-susan that sits on my desk at work. After I'd done about half, I realized it's not entirely mine, but mine to use during my employment. The guilt passed as quickly as it came. Here's the finished product.

Without stuff:

With stuff:

I know that's a lot of pictures of an office-supply-lazy-susan, but it's been a while since I've had time to be crafty, so I'm really excited about it.

Move over bacon

2005-09-17T23:59:00.000-04:00

Amy and Adam bid a glad farewell to Union City, NJ for the greener pastures of Asssstoria, Queens; and we helped.

Find the feet

(clockwise from noon) Michele, Kelly, Ivan, Adam, me, Paul, Myles and Amy

Sneaker sisters synchronize

The last feet in the place

Michele, Sarah (via telephone), Paul, Adam, me, Ivan, Amy, Myles and Kelly (behind the lense)

And Sarah awaited us on the other side.

LBI with SLT: bring the SPF

2005-09-12T11:44:00.000-04:00

Thanks to Delawarrior Sarah Lane's generosity, I was able to escape the city for an unprecedented second weekend in a row. Kelly and I hopped a Port Authority bus Saturday afternoon, and were on Long Beach Island off the Jersey shore just a few hours later.

Everything was perfect - from the beach house deck

(chilling with Kelly)

and the little sandpiper I chased for most of Sunday

to the full-body exfoliation I received courtesy of some bodacious waves.

Enough sun for me for one day, I read in the shade of the umbrella, while
SLT and Kelly bronzed.

If I'd been able to shrink myself enough to live in that sand castle, I would have, but alas...

Farewell, SLT ... and to summer.

PS - Kelly took some lovely photos of our weekend, as well. Check 'em out.

So much catching up...

2005-09-09T11:24:00.000-04:00

But first things first (and since it's Capslock Friday): I GOT SKATES!

Since I like my chronology in chronological order, I've posted some new photos, but they are back dated to when the photos were taken. Click here, here, here and here to catch up through the end of August. Photos of my Labor Day trip to INDIANA are on the way.

How can we help?

2005-09-07T23:59:00.000-04:00

Chickens circle the wagons around our brothers and sisters on the Gulf Coast.

Labor Day on the farm

2005-09-05T23:59:00.000-04:00

Ah...the simple, unspoiled life of the Amish. Don't forget to buy something on your way out.

Almost paradise

2005-09-04T23:59:00.000-04:00

Scott and I awoke late on Sunday, and in keeping with Nappannee/Round Barn Theater tradition, we braved the crowds at our favorite local brunch spot:

Taco Bell.

Stuffed and only slightly uncomfortable, I got to see two terrific shows:

the matinee of "Elton John and Tim Rice's Aida," which Scott directed, and the evening performance of "Driving Miss Daisy," in which Scott played Boolie.

Between shows, I reunited with my former castmates and adorable pals Sam (with "Egyptian" eye makeup, not pictured) and Jeremy (also not pictured).

As any musical/theater geek knows, big day of theater can only be topped by

a "luau" at a gay "sports bar" like Little T's. Open-mike entertainment was supplied by the whitest-blues-gal in showbiz, a club kid on X (or maybe K), and, of course, Dr. Fun.

Scott and I opted to finish our beers on the patio

in the shade of the pineapple tree

between the totems

under the watchful eyes of the Inflatable Menagerie. I'm working on an updated version of the similarly titled Tennessee Williams classic: tragedy strikes when someone produces a pin.

Labor-free weekend

2005-09-03T23:59:00.000-04:00

Labor Day weekend, I flew out to northwestern Indiana to visit my darling friend and old roommate, Scott. After an lengthier-than-I-anticipated train/monorail commute to Newark airport, and a shoeless sprint through the American Airlines terminal, I settled into seat 9E, got out my knitting, put Spoon into my cd player and relaxed. The flight into O'Hare was quite pleasant, until the very end.

Knitting in seat 9E

Just as the "please turn off all electronic devices" announcement was made, the poor 6-year-old with "sinus issues" in front of me started screaming bloody murder, and continued to do so as we descended, landed, taxied until our gate was ready, arrived at the gate, waited for the jetway to attach to the plane and disembarked.

Then I rode a bus for two hours from O'Hare airport in Chicago to Michigan City, IN, where Scott picked me up for the hour drive to Nappannee. The trip was long and tiring, but worth it to be with one of my bestest friends under visible stars.

The next morning, Scott arose early to teach his Body Pump class at the gym. I lazed in the yard, drank tea, and read The New Yorker.

My toes like grass

Scott's house, across from the Nappannee Public Library

When Scott returned from the gym, he insisted on going for a 12 mile run, so I tooled around Nappannee on his bicycle for a couple of hours. I rode over to the Round Barn Theater at Amish Acres,

where Scott directs artistically, and where I once played Sister Margaretta ("Maria makes me laugh! Ha-ha-ha-ha!) in The Sound of Music.

On my ride through town and country, I passed two Amish men on bikes, and one horse and buggy carting a whole Amish family. The Amish do not believe in photography, so, out of respect, I refrained from snapping pictures in their direction. The urge was harder to resist when, later that evening, Scott and I saw a gaggle of Amish girls (that's the scientific term) at the Hacienda Mexican Restaurant in Goshen, enjoying burritos and electric lighting.

All afternoon and into the evening, Scott and I shopped, ate, and sang Pat Benatar at the top of our lungs as we drove along the corn-lined country roads - the usual. When darkness finally descended, we hitched a ride with Christy to the only gay bar (I'm pretty sure) in Michiana.

Seedy, smoky and packed, Truman's had everything: cheap beer;

This round of drinks cost $5.50.

pool, darts AND a dance floor;

(no parking)

and really bad drag.

And if the drag show gets boring, you can also watch West Wing.

(from noon) Christy, me and Scott rubbernecking

After the drag-spectacle, I mean -spectactular, we trapsed upstairs for beer and gawking. Ryan, Scott's apartment-mate and adorable fellow, met us there, but abandonded us quickly for the dance floor. All-talk-no-action Troy joined us eventually, but ditched us right before the shots came out. I drank his.

(from noon) Scott, Ryan, me, Troy and Christy: Scott just has to be the center of attention.

By the end of the evening, Scott had gotten the number of a guy who should never dance, and I nearly got my Hag Card revoked for interrupting Scott while he made eye contact with a guy across the room. The ugly lights came up just in time.

Kayaking on the Hudson

2005-08-28T16:02:00.000-04:00

Sunday morning, I went for a walk up the riverside just past the pier at 70th St.

and saw something very exciting (and FREE):

kayaks!

I asked these guys what's the dealio? and they said, hop in. "Just don't go to New Jersey."

So I hopped (actually scooted) in and

paddled around the buoyed-off area for about 40 minutes.

Dripping wet from the waist down, and smelling of the eggy Hudson, I disembarked and returned my oar and life jacket. Between the kayaking and the bike ride with Nadette the previous Thursday, I was feeling oddly athletic, so I happily skipped home and ordered roller skates on eBay.

Oh my golly - so many shows

2005-08-26T16:11:00.000-04:00

My all-female improv comedy troupe, Chicken Ranch has two shows this weekend; and I have plans to see three more. So many talented folks in my life...I'm a lucky molly.

Here are some feet from our last gig at Ash Wednesday on August 17.

Getting cat-sitting instructions from Evie (I'm seeing her stand-up Monday)

Admiring Libby's laundry-day ensemble (Libby's show is Saturday - "see" above)

On Soma FM's Indie Pop Rocks right this second: Oh My Golly! - Pixies. I swear.

Rawk it like you mean it

2005-08-24T14:56:00.000-04:00

Jen and I met up for dinner at Katz' and then our buddy and drummer Scott's rawk* show at Mercury Lounge Tuesday night.

We shared an enormous egg salad sandwich and a sweet potato knish,

Enjoying the grub

then trapsed over to Two Boots for a pre-show beverage (pronounce beh-veh-RAH-j).

Feet with beer - this made me so happy my head almost exploded.

Finally, the hour arrived and so did we.

Ercury Loun

The place was packed, but we saw Scott K (the bass player) outside, and he assured us we would get in. He was correct; inside LP and the band of Scotts (and a Josh and another guy - sorry other guy) kicked our rock-n-roll asses hard.

Jen and I with kicked-in asses (not pictured)

After the show, we hung out while, in typical musician fashion, the guys loaded up the van. Our wait was rewarded with some sweaty sugar from Scott, a quick beer and a little quality catch-up time. Sweaty sugar is the best sugar, just so you know.

*It goes against my better nature (and copy editor's code of ethics) to miss spell words intentionally, but for one who rawks as well as Scott, I can be bendy.

One way or another...

2005-08-22T14:50:00.000-04:00

Cindee, Dave, Kelly and I went to Archer's on 85th and 1st Ave. Saturday for some killer karaoke. Killer can mean whatever you want it to mean.

Tapping toes to Kelly's rendition of Beyonce's "Crazy in Love."

Cindee and Dave promise to "Stop Dragging [one another's] Heart Around."

I sang a little Blondie, a little Carole King, and the ladies and I rocked out "9 to 5" in honor of the hardest working woman in showbiz - Michele. Guest appearances by "Neil Diamond" and Doug from Trading Spaces made the night complete. If only Neil and Doug had done a duet...

This is NOT a playground

2005-08-18T12:54:00.000-04:00

It's a somber, yet phallic, reminder of our forefathers' fight for life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. But NO LAUGHING!

Old Julius

2005-08-16T23:59:00.000-04:00

Over a barrell with delight

Weiner dog foot rail

I love this place.

Kevin and Rob took Cindee and I to Julius' for something fried after happy hour at the Duplex. Julius', which seems to be something of an institution, is a bar, yes, but it has a grill smack in the middle of the place, and a short-order cook whipping up burgers, grilled cheese and hand-cut fries. The decor is dark, heavy Old Irish Mary with a layer of wax tied up in a rainbow swag. While Cindee found it depressing ("where old queens go to die"), I was delighted in an Addams'-family's-gay-uncle-has-a bar kind of way. And that grilled cheese was delicious.

What is it with this town?

2005-08-15T22:58:00.000-04:00

Christopher Columbus Drive, Jersey City near Exchange Place

Here's to good friends

2005-08-14T22:48:00.000-04:00

Brunch at Bubby's was kinda special.

Gs - Cindee, Mo, Sarah (hiding behind table leg), Kelly, Amy, me - relieved to be in out of the heat (and eating)

Black tea, bloody mary - the perfect way to break fast

Gs with Sarah out of hiding - a little coffee, a little a/c, she's much better

That's one hard working, hard drinking pigeon.

Amy, Cindee and I at the Mud Spot post- and pre-thunderstorm

Dirty and gritty

2005-08-13T15:13:00.000-04:00

Backyard BBQ last night at the East Village home of Kelly's photographer friend, Casey.

Kelly, Casey, me - spontaneously combustible

Kelly, Mitch, me, Mike - before Mike and I went through each others' wallets

It was hot.

3 Dates in 3 Nights

2005-08-11T11:57:00.000-04:00

But, sadly I only got feet photos of one.

Monday, August 8 - Saw Nate Starkey's show at UCB with Sarah N.

[imaginary pic of mine and Sarah's adorable toesies] [/imaginary pic]

Tuesday, August 9 - Drank beer with Michele at Hallo Berlin

Wednesday, August 10 - Hung out in World Wide Plaza with Cindee

[imaginary pic of mine and Cindee's teeny feet] [/imaginary pic]

Who's next?

Nowakalooza

2005-08-07T14:01:00.000-04:00

Sarah and Adam are not just brother and sister, they are also birthday buddies! Just one day (and 4 years) separates them.

On that day in between, August 5, we danced, laughed and screamed in celebration at Central Bar on 9th St. DJ Earsplit cranked out the "tunes" and Nowaks brought the fun.

(clockwise from 3) birthday girl Sarah, me, Amy

with birthday boy Adam

Adam's good lady wife and our sweet mama chicken, Amy, poured all her love into a rockin' N cake

and a batch of "NO" "WAK!" cupcakes,

but they were gone before I could get a photo.

My main goals for the evening were to hug on Sarah,

get some debuts* for the feet-blog,

(clockwise from 1) Dan*, Sarah, me, Vippin*, Rachel*

and have fun, fun, fun with my ChickenGs.

Cindee and Amy

Michele and I resting our ears

Dave (so demure), Cindee and I

By the time Sarah's official birthday arrived, ourselves were tired but wired: off to Telephone Bar to wrap up the fete in low-decible style.

Happy birthday Adam and Sarah! Thems some good genes you got there, and blessed I am to bear witness and reap the benefits.

Plastic bag bag instructions

2005-08-07T11:58:00.000-04:00

I used this method for cutting the bags. A crochet pattern accompanies this link, but I used my own. You can also use the "spiral" method for cutting. This link has a knit pattern, too.

For the bag in this photo, I used 75 - 100 bags and a size Q crochet hook.

*I tend to crochet "freehand," so I apologize for the vagueness of this pattern.*

For the body:
Chain 16*
Double crochet one long piece until double the length of the bag you want
Fold in half and sew up sides with mattress stitch or single crochet

For the handle:
Chain 20*
Double crochet one row
Attach on either side of the body at seams
Turn inside out and TADA!

Have fun recycling.

Patience

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

In line at the Jersey City Post Office, time: 2:33

Still in line, time 2:58

The hold up?

Must have been all the mails.

Summer Tuesday

2005-08-02T14:31:00.000-04:00

It is so slow today, so I decided to take a walk. First of all, that bra in the corner park is still there,

even though there are signs that clearly state we should all do our part to keep Jersey City and its parks clean.

Only a five minute walk from my office (this time, staying on the same street as my office) is another waterfront park - this one for the masses. You can tell by the brown grass

geese

and broken bottles mixing with the rusty pipes and river rocks.

But with views like this

on a day like today, I'll take it.

Plastic uno

2005-08-01T10:33:00.000-04:00

Just whipped out a plastic-bag beach bag for my friend Kelly's birthday. She's been coveting the one I made for my friend Cat in Miami, and now she has one of her very own.

outside

inside

Now that it's finished, I can start thinking about what to do with all that wool...

*After a Labor Day trip to the beach, it was discovered that this bag STRETCHES and is ginoromous as originally instructed. The pattern has been edited to accommodate the give of the stitch.

Girl party

2005-07-31T14:01:00.000-04:00

Nadette, me

Mwah!

Lolly, Maria, me

Hostess and DJ Jo

me, Electric lemonade

My pal Nadette and her friend Jo hosted a Fabulous Female party last night. My head is still a bit swimmy from the gallon of Electric Lemonade I drank. The more than 50 women in attendance ranged in age from 20s to 60s and came from varied disciplines and backgrounds. I met a biographer, a UN fundraiser, a social worker, a slow-food activist, an astrologist - and even some actresses! And, since Mercury is in retrograde (so says the astrologist), I ran into an old acquaintence as well. Life is funny and amazing. So are women.

Summer Friday

2005-07-29T15:03:00.000-04:00

Enjoying the light workload

Hey lady.

My office is a five minute walk from this quite peaceful, if a tad gentrified, waterfront park: the perfect place to kill 30 minutes when I'm practically the only person at work on a gorgeous Friday in July.

Can't you wait?

2005-07-28T15:44:00.000-04:00

Strolling through the park at Washington St. and Grand St., Jersey City

Cross your heart.

For (at least) two weeks, this undergarment has been hanging on the fence in Paulus Hook Park. It reminds me of David Cross' musings about finding used condoms in the street: wondering if the guy who leaves them behind is "...like an urban Johnny Appleseed trying to make a CHUD baby." If so, I found his babymama's bra.

Brrr...

2005-07-26T13:46:00.000-04:00

It's so cold in my office, my nose is running. The 4th floor fire escape offers a toasty respite from the freeze and my RDA of vitamin D.

Full moon for Amy Day

2005-07-22T23:59:00.000-04:00

Celebrating Amy (Jonathon's feet make their debut)

Niñas de Luna (birthday-girl Amy, flanked by fellow July babies, me and Kelly)

Michele and Sarah

Cindee and Amy

Jen and Mike

Michele and Stan

Jonathon and me

Mmm...cupcakes

Oh, Adam...

The planets aligned on July 22 to bring together Amy's birthday and Pot Luck Cabaret. The Chickens, the Gs and all the boys gathered at ACME to celebrate our ChickenMoonMamaCrab Amy. The party then moved to Juvie Hall, where Chicken Ranch, Gunshow, and impresario Adam Nowak filled the hearts and bellies of the best audience in NYC. Nothing like 2 rounds of "Happy Birthday" to make a show a show. Just before midnight, we made it over to Slainte to mind our Ps, Qs and cupcakes and continue to revel in the glory of Amy.

Happy birthday, pretty. You radiate all that is good in this world and beyond.

Kelly G...Kelly G...Are you there?

2005-07-17T23:59:00.000-04:00

Awaiting the guest of honor

Kelly's Ouija board birthday cake: conceived and baked by Amy G, decorated by Me G

The Birthday G

Chickens in attendance: Sarah G, Mo G, Amy G and Cindee G (not pictured: Me G.)

G feet

Get Out of Jail Free card*

(Clockwise from 11: Andrea, me, Kelly)

The Gs gathered at Druids to celebrate the birth of our treasured Kelly. The usual food and drink-fueled merriment transpired. Kelly taught us the value of getting 100% agave tequila vs. the cheap stuff; and Andrea, Kelly's visiting friend from Texas, showed us the rewards of AAA membership*.

Happy birthday, Kelly! You are treasured and loved by all lucky enough to know you.

Take that, Man

2005-07-14T15:32:00.001-04:00

Basking in justice served at the Civil Court building

Taking deep breath outside 111 Centre Street

PS - Happy birthday, Brendan.