Red Bear's Blog

Friend Rant...

2011-04-13T10:03:00.001-07:00

I like Facebook, it is a good program/website. I joined it to get away from the bear cliques of Seattle, let me tell you it is really bad here, and at the beginning it was nice. But the cliques soon followed. It is amazing, when someone adds you as a friend, you would think they would want to get to know/keep in touch with you. Um. no. I have figured out there are few types of freinds on Facebook.

Family- Unless you truly hate them, you have to add family

True Friends- Granted there are few of them, but at least they keep in touch.

Friend Whores - Those that add you as a friend to up their number of friends. How can someone with 3000+ friends keep in touch with all of them.

Invite Whores - Those that have a business, or work for a compnay/bar that puts on events. Only reason they have you as a friend is so they have more people they can send invites out to. You think they are genuine and want to be friend, oh hell no.

New Friends- New friend are nice, they are usually friends of friends. Very rarely do they actually become #2 on my list, but most of the time they end up becoming #3 or #4.

Whew...that felt good....

Oh, there will be more.

WOW!

2011-04-13T09:48:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it has been about 2 years since I have posted on here. I highly doubt that anyone reads this. They would have to do some digging to find this. I have decied to start posting again to use this as a form of venting for the furstration I have with Facebook. I don't have an issue with Facebook, just the some of the people that are on it, and are my "friends", and others that just really torque me the wrong way. I won't be posting names, that would be pretty rude of me, and I try not to be rude. I just might do general venting on here all together, I need a place to do it, and this seems to best.

My Bad..

2009-04-29T06:55:00.000-07:00

You know, I have to blame FaceBook for me not keeping this updated. It is so much easier, but I need to keep this updated also.

I promise to keep this updated...

Just a heads up

2009-03-14T10:04:00.000-07:00

I am going to be stepping away from this for a bit. I need to do some reassessing of things and I will get back to this as soon as I get things sorted out.

Few More Canada Pictures

2009-03-02T16:25:00.001-08:00

Rich sent me a few pics of Matt and myself when we were on Grandville Island. They turned out pretty good also.

Canada Trip

2009-03-01T09:46:00.001-08:00

Wow, it has been way over a month since I have posted. Man have I been lazy.

So, last week, Rich's friend Matt was visiting from Minnesota, and it was his 1st time to Seattle, and he had also not been to Canada. Well, truth be told, I have never been to Canada either, so, last weekend, we headed North with Passports in hand. I had gotten my passport over a year ago, and have never used it. I felt all grown up.

I rented a car, because both Rich and I have trucks and there was not enough room for the 3 of us.
We headed North and hit the border. Rich said they would ask us a couple questions and our passports. We pulled up and they asked a lot of questions...then he told us we had to go park and go in and talk to the border people. We had thought we did something wrong. Well, after waiting about 20 minutes, we figured it was because both Mat and I have never been to Canada and we were in a rental car.

We then were on our way. I had my TomTom and was able to switch it from MPH to KPH, so I would not speed.

We got in to Vancouver, and to the hotel. We stayed downtown, and had a great view from our room.
We then went out to get something to eat, but stopped by an ATM to get money. They have the most colorful money I have ever seen. I took out 60 dollars, but when I checked my bank online later, only 47 dollars was taken out. God I love the exchange rate.

We went out to the bars, and it was fun.

Saturday we crossed the river and went to Grandville Island. They have their version of Pike Place Market. It was a really nice place. We walked around a bit and they have street performers that were walking around on stilts. there were a couple of "bugs" walk by us,they were cool.
There is also a marina there wtih a lot of really nice boats, perfect photo op for Rich and myself.

After the marke, we were going to head up to Whistler, but it was a 2 hour drive. We went part away, and the views were amazing. I wish I wasn't the one driving, because wasn't able to see as much as I wanted to .
We went out again, that night and I got drinks at the bar. They don't have dollar bills they use coins. I was looking at my change to see what I got back, and the guy next to me said, " You are Amercian, aren't you?" I said, Yep I am. It was funny.

Sunday we headed home. I was a really nice trip and I can't wait to go back.

Kind of funny and cute

2009-01-10T08:29:00.000-08:00

I saw this online the other day, and made me grin. I hope it doesn't offend anyone, and if it does phttpppppp!!!

How to Shower Like a Man

Take off clothes while sitting on the edge of the bed and leave them in a pile.
Walk naked to the bathroom.
If you see wife along the way, shake wiener at her making the woo-woo' sound.
Look at your manly physique in the mirror.
Admire the size of your wiener and scratch your ass.
Get in the shower Wash your face. Wash your armpits.
Blow your nose in your hands and let the water rinse them off.
Fart and laugh at how loud it sounds in the shower.
Spend majority of time washing privates and surrounding area.
Wash your butt, leaving those coarse butt hairs stuck on the soap.
Wash your hair. Make a Shampoo Mohawk. Pee.
Rinse off and get out of shower. Avoid bath mat.
Dry off forearms and butt only.
Fail to notice water on floor because curtain was hanging out of tub the whole time.
Admire wiener size in mirror again. Shake it to watch water fly off.
Leave shower curtain open, wet mat on floor, light and fan on.
Return to bedroom with towel around waist.
If you pass wife, pull off towel, shake wiener at her and make the woo-woo' sound again.
Throw wet towel on bed.

Flooding....

2009-01-08T08:35:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to let everyone know, I am not affected by the flooding that has been going on here in Washington. Seattle was not hit hard, a lot of urban flooding, but nothing really bad. Since I live on a hill, I am pretty safe.

Visiting my Sister Part 3

2008-12-29T17:50:00.000-08:00

Well, it was now Sunday and I was going to head home, but not until later that afternoon.

We woke up again to snow..OMG, too much snow
Julie, Sarah and I went out to breakfast. The "original" pancake house, oy, far from the truth. They wouldn't make an omelet the way I wanted and...AND..they had no country gravy. I should have just walked out then. No gravy, that is unheard of.

We then dropped Sarah off and went back to Julies house to digest our breakfast.

We then took her dog Annie to the dog park.

Now, no dog is cuter than mine, but Annie is pretty dang close.

Annie just loves the dog park, she runs around and even looks for critters in the dirt, and I thought my boys were diggers...

After she had gotten all nice and muddy, we headed to the river for her to take a swim. Just watching her chilled me to the bone.

We then headed back and I got ready to leave.

My sister took me to the train station and my train was almost time time

As we headed up north, the snow started getting heavy again, I am so glad my camera has video

All and all it was a really good trip. I am glad I went

Visiting my Sister Part 2

2008-12-29T17:34:00.000-08:00

The next morning when I got up I looked outside and saw this...
It had snowed the night before.

My sister and I were planning a trip to Albany, the town we grew up in . It is only 20 minutes from where my sister lives, so it was not that far.

In the afternoon most of the snow had melted and we headed South.

The 1st place we went was the house we grew up in, man it is a lot smaller than I remember. It has changed quite a bit, but yet it looked the same
Even the color was the same, there use to be two trees in the front, but they are long gone.

We then went downtown, to see the tree the county planted in memory of my mother. She had worked for the county for years, and when she passed away, they planted a tree and put up a plaque. When the planted the tree, it was as tall as I am. Man, has it grown

After that, we headed to my mom's best friend Anne's house. Julie was a bit tired, she stayed at Anne's and I headed over and visited the parent of my Best friend in high school. Now, it has been, maybe 15 years since I had seen them, but to me, they still looked the same as they did when I was in high school. I had a really nice visit with them

I went back to Anne's place and then we headed out for dinner. We went to my mom's favorite Chinese restaurant, Ping's I think, and a had a really great dinner.

We then went back to Anne's, who has a beautiful new house, and said our good bye's. I had to get a picture of her and Julie in front of her tree.

It was a great visit, brought back a lot of memories, a lot of good ones. How much the town I grew up in, has changed...but yet stayed the same....

updates

2008-12-28T18:00:00.000-08:00

I have more updates coming soon

Visiting my sister

2008-12-19T09:44:00.000-08:00

Last weekend, Dec 12th I do believe, my sister was having a Holiday party at her house, and I decide to go.

Now, it has been about 4 years since I have seen my sister and she lives in Salem Oregon, not far from the town I grew up in . So I decided to go and pay her a visit.

I took the train down, it isn't that far away, I would say about 4 hours by car. But the train was about 6 hours and was only 77 dollars round trip.

It was a great ride, and great views.

I got there about 3PM.

That night my sister had her Christmas party, it was very festive, and lots of food, most she made herself.
She even had a tree up, that her friend Sara help decorate. Julie, my sister, has all the Christmas decorations from when we were kids and it was really nice to see them all.

I helped in the kitchen a bit, and then Julie wanted a picture of us in front of the tree.

My shirt was wet because I was doing dishes. How domestic am I.
I also took some video of her place

She also had a theme, Wear an ugly sweater or dress like someone from "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation". I don't own any sweaters and had only seen the movie once. But one of her friend, Brent, I think. Dressed like cousin Eddie from the movie and he looked just like him

It was a fun party, my sister has good friends.

Another year passes

2008-12-08T18:53:00.000-08:00

I just realized that it has been a year since I started up my blog, boy does time fly, and today is the boys birthday.

Today they turn 9...9! I have had those little blessings, and pains for 9 years.

Just like last year, they got an apple for their birthday, and of course.I have pictures.

I am very blessed to have them in my life.

Leavenworth

2008-11-19T14:43:00.000-08:00

I know it has been a long time, way over a month since I have done anything and I am sorry...I am a bad bear.

A couple weeks ago when Tom was home, we took a trip to Leavenworth, no not the prison, geesh. It is a small town in the mountains East of Seattle, it takes about 2 hours to get there. What is so great about Leavenworth is what kind of town it is. Back in the 70's when the town was alm0st dying, a bunch of investors bought up the town, and turned it in to a Bavarian village. It is that perfect place for it, snuggled up in the mountains, with a river that runs through it.

Even today, when the have new businesses come in and want to build, it has to be in a Bavarian design. It is funny to see a Subway and McDonald's that look like they should be in Germany

We went though Stevens Pass which was one of the high passes to get there. We had a lot of rain the week before, and the freezing level dropped so there was snow. It was really nice to see

Once we got there, you could see the snow in the mountains and hills. Usually the town is really crowded, but it wasn't the day we went. It was a really nice road trip.

Day Trip

2008-10-13T09:27:00.000-07:00

Yesterday it was beautiful here, a wonderful fall day. My friend Rich that had just moved here from Santa Cruz this last summer had never been to Snoquamie Falls. Now, those who don't know what the fall are. Remember the TV show Twin Peaks, in the opening of the show it showed a beautiful waterfall and lodge. Well, that is Snoquamie Falls. It is only about 19 miles from Seattle, not that far.

We had a good time and took some pics

Me at the falls

Lodge and Falls

I took some video also, but it is sideways, and I can't fix it, but you get the idea

I made the switch

2008-09-20T10:19:00.000-07:00

Well, kids I finally did it, I made the switch to a Mac.

I saw a Mac Mini on eBay and got it. Let me tell you, it is TOTALLY different than Window. It will take some getting use to, but I think I will like it.

It does run better, I will tell ya that.

I will keep you posted

Monday Morning

2008-09-15T06:18:00.000-07:00

Today is my day off! I just needed a 3 day weekend, so I got one. I woke up at 5 which is sleeping in for me and when I came out into the living room and started seeing the sun come up,this is what I saw.

Walk on Alki

2008-09-14T18:51:00.000-07:00

My friend Tom gave me a call this afternoon wanting to know if I wanted to go for a walk on Alki. Now, if you remember from my previous posts, I had pictures of Alki Beach, but I was a bit away. This time we came in from the back side, so you will be able to see what was in the distance in those other pictures.

Now, Alki is a point so it has a bit of a bump out into the sound.

Here is a map. you can see where we started and where we ended..you can also see in the middle where I live.
Click on it to make it bigger.

Now I took a lot of pics which I will put up as a slide show to the right, but I wanted to point out some things that were fun.

These are Condo's that go over the water, they are spendy, we saw some for sale the cheapest one was 500K
Then we headed to one of the beaches that is has stones instead of sand. Now the tide was out so there were some people down there. I saw this Mom and son, and it was a cute pic
We saw some art in one persons front yard. Their whole yard has all these blue glass bottles, it is really cool

Once we got to Alki, I don't know if I said or not, but there is a Small Statue of Liberty there. Then just spent 2 month making a new plaza for it and it is great.
Then we came up to the beach area, and as you can see, it is a real beach. Someone asked me if they brought the sand in, I told them, they did not.

Now, I have video on my camera, so I stood on the seawall and did a 360, so you can see it all. Yes it is bit windy.

That was my walk on Alki. As soon as the photos upload I will put a slide show off to the right

Totem Pole

2008-09-13T15:10:00.000-07:00

Someone was looking at the picture I took from my front window and saw the Totem Pole. They asked me why it was there, and I said, because there is a park there. They asked, have you not gone down to look at it...I said "no".

Now I have lived here for 4 year and have walked by it but never stopped and looked at it.

Well, today, I did.

There is no plaque, or any reference why it is there. I did notice that it points toward my house, no wonder I have had a feeling of being watched.

While I was there I also got a picture of the Space Needle and of course the house.

New pictures of the boys

2008-09-13T08:53:00.001-07:00

Ya know, I think it has been awhile since I put pictures of the boy on here.
I took some this morning, because I said I was going to use my camera more.
I do have to say, they are so darn cute..

Aren't they just the cutest! That is Dexter on the left and Bear on the right....and of course, here is the both of them

My yard

2008-09-11T17:27:00.000-07:00

Ya know, I got this new camera at the beginning of the year and I really don't use it that much. So, I am going to go out more and take pics and post them here. They may not be that good, but I am learning.

I went out to my yard and took some pics of the blooming flowers. As I learn to use the setting, I am sure they pics will get better....

Lavender

Hot Lips Sage

Some Blue Flower

My Living Room Window

2008-09-09T15:16:00.001-07:00

It has been so beautiful here the last week, I thought I would post a view of what I see out my living room window...I even made a handy dandy guide of what you are looking at.
If you click on the image, you can see it a whole lot better.

A. Qwest Field, where the Seahawks play
B. Amazon.com
C. Starbuck Central ( The Mothership)
D. SafeCo Field, where the Mariners play (behind the trees)

This is the view I see, so I thought I would share.

Terrifying Encounter

2008-09-04T12:58:00.000-07:00

Now, don't let the title fool you, it is just the name of the You Tube video.

Listen to it, you don't have to have your speakers up loud, just loud enough to hear the people talking. Nothing will jump out or flash on the screen.

You will just have to trust me, you will thank me later......Enjoy....

I have found another one....just as good as the first!!!

What a great Game

2008-08-29T22:27:00.001-07:00

So, tonight I went to my first Seahawks game at Qwest field, what a friggen blast.

That place is HUGE, I read it holds 67,000 people. We played the Oakland Raiders, and handed them their asses! 23-16 . I do have to say, it was getting cold and Tom wanted to go, we both wore shorts. We left at the beginning of the 4th quarter, but we heard the cheering from blocks away, and we knew we were doing good.

I had kicked myself for not bringing my camera, but then I remembered I had my cell phone with me...so there are pictures.

We had Club seats, Tom got a really good deal, and this was taken up in the club area.....

These are our actual seats, we had some pretty good ones.....

I took a pic of Tom when he was not looking....
And here I am right before the kick off.

I really want to go to more games. This was the last pre-season game so the tickets were cheaper. The same seats we had during this game were cheaper, regular season are 150 dollars..OUCH. Looks like we will be sitting with the common folk next time. :)

Hot For Words

2008-08-26T18:25:00.000-07:00

So, I was looking around on youtube.com the other day and was looking for things to watch while I was at work.

I saw this one that was called nincompoop, and it has this rather good looking blond woman on the the video, now, beign a gay man this usually doesn't catch my eye, so I clicked on it

I was floored!!

Her name is Marina Orlova, and she is 27, and is from Russia,and she’s a philologist! Don't worry, I had to look it up also. It’s someone who studies linguistics and etymology. So I watched the video, it is so cool. Check it out.

She has 261 videos, and counting, and I have seen just a few. She has a website HotForWords.com I suggest you check it out. You might learn something, I did.

So I joined her site, and can't wait for the next Lesson to come out. I even got up the nerve and sent a request for the saying "whatever floats your boat" and where that phrase came from.

My First One

2008-08-25T19:30:00.001-07:00

Well, this will be a 1st for me. This Friday I am going to my 1st Seahawks game!!!! Last year, I was finally explained how football work and I understood...now I am a big fan. This is a Preseaon game, which is fine by me, I went to look online for regular season ticket but they were all sold out. Thank god for Stubhub.

I will let you know how my 1st NFL game went.

Complete story

2008-08-16T06:37:00.000-07:00

Here is the complete story from the Tacoma news tribune, the reporter really went into detail,

http://www.thenewstribune.com/front/topstories/story/447494.html

News already

2008-08-15T20:17:00.001-07:00

They already have the story up about my trial

here is the link

http://www.thenewstribune.com/front/topstories/story/446896.html

Jury Duty Over

2008-08-15T14:49:00.000-07:00

I am finally done with Jury Duty. 3 weeks long but it was well worth it.

We sided for the plaintiff

Here is the news story the Tacoma Tribune release yesterday

http://www.thenewstribune.com/news/local/story/444800.html

I will post what the say tomorrow about the verdict.

Quick update

2008-08-08T19:16:00.000-07:00

Not much going on, I am still on the trial. It has been over 2 weeks. They said closing statements will be on Monday, and deliberation will start after that.

One thing I didn't know until the 1st day, but there are 14 jurors. Before jury selection even started, they had selected 2 alternates, and after closing we find out who they are. Those 2 will not go into deliberation, they get to go home. I hope I a not an alternate, I want to deliberate.

I will keep you updated.

OY!

2008-07-26T13:07:00.001-07:00

I know it has been a long time since I posted, not much really going on.

But now there is.

I have Jury duty....First time EVER!!

Everyone kept on saying..oh, you won't get picked, you will go in, they will question you..then it will be over.

Well, kids, I got selected. 2 1/2 week civil trial for wrongful termination. It is a high profile case, so it is kind of fun. There are parts that are boring, and is really hard to stay awake, but all in all, it is kind of fun.

Other than that, not much other going on.

The weather has been nice. I need to go on more walks.

Rugby....hmmmmm

2008-07-18T10:17:00.001-07:00

Maybe I should look into Rugby...wonder if all their games are like this..

Evolution of Dance

2008-07-15T13:25:00.000-07:00

I had seen this a couple years back and came across it again. It is so funny, I had to share.

This Morning

2008-07-02T06:56:00.000-07:00

This was taken about 5:30am this morning from my front window.

Why I love Living in Seattle

2008-06-28T12:02:00.000-07:00

Today is one of the days why I love living in Seattle.

I got up this morning and decided to talk a walk down on Harbor Blvd. towards Alki Beach.
Now West Seattle is a peninsula which goes out in to Puget Sound, so there is water all round.

My walk starts out pretty uneventful, in a small industrial area, then you come around the corner and you see downtown Seattle.
You see that for a while then it you start to see an area called Queen Anne, old part of town, beautiful houses.
As I keep walking, next is Magnolia. There is park there called Discovery Park, great place for hiking and it also has an active Military Base.

All this is on my right hand side, on the left are condo's

Now, there are still some old original houses down there, but they get bought and put condo's up. The condo's run about 1 million plus, because of the view you get

As I am walking..I am getting passed by Joggers, skate boarder, skaters, and bicycles, it is a very popular area when it is nice.

After I pass downtown, I come up on the Olympics. Everyone knows about the Cascades on the east side, but on the west side, are they Olympics, on a good day if you are in the right part of town you can see both, but the Olympics are just as beautiful
I am coming around the corner, and I am coming up on Alki Beach. Now, during the summer and when the weather is nice, the place is packed. There is a beach, and lots of shops and restaurants. Parking is a bitch, but if you can find it, it is a great place to spend the evening. We even have a Statue of Liberty there.
After I took this picture, I knew it was time to head back, I could have went all the way but I didn't feel like walking 6 miles.

So, that is why I love living in Seattle.

Slacker

2008-06-25T12:28:00.001-07:00

Yep, I have been slacking again..i will update here soon

Seattle weather: Colder than Siberia!

2008-06-11T06:26:00.001-07:00

Check out the article from the Seattle Times.

http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/localnews/2004470095_weather11m.html

BRRRRRRRR

Mac or not to Mac

2008-06-10T08:22:00.000-07:00

I have been thinking about getting a new PC, and I have been pondering on getting a Mac. Now I know that Mac's are cool, I have dinked around with them a bit, and have been looking at the Mac Mini.

It is small, cute and what I need, and not a bad price 600 bucks. Or, I can just build my own PC for about 300.....I hate making decisions...

Any input from anyone?

San Jacinto

2008-06-03T08:57:00.000-07:00

On my last day in California we went to San Jacinto, which is a mountain range by Palm Springs. The peak of the mountain is 10,000 feet, but you take a tram up to 8,500 feet, and it is just beautiful, as you can see by the pictures to the right.

44

2008-06-02T22:15:00.000-07:00

Today was my 44th birthday, yep, I am 44. I feel like it, but I like to think I don't look like I am 44.

I had a good day,Tom gave me a call 1st thing this morning, then, Kevin took me out for University Village for Sushi and walked around the shops. I got a nice jacket at Eddie Bauer for myself.

All and all it was a good day

I put up more pics from my trip.

I had a pretty good birthday

Back Home

2008-06-02T08:01:00.000-07:00

I am back home, and very glad to be home. Granted it is cold and overcast, but it was nice to sleep in my bed.

Once I have all the pictures sorted out, will post them

California Trip, Part Two

2008-06-01T07:22:00.000-07:00

Saturday we headed East to the desert, to a place called Ladder Canyon. It was a nice hike, and you will see why it is called Ladder Canyon. Throughout the canyon there are several ladders you have to climb to continue on....as you can see by the pictures to the right.

California Trip, Part One

2008-05-31T19:42:00.000-07:00

Ok, I have been a bit busy, with my trip but I wanted to post an update.

Yesterday, Tom and I went to Disney California Adventure. It was a blast. I have one pic that I will post now, of us on "California Scream'in". I love roller coasters, as you can tell by my face. No, I did not get any bugs in my mouth.

2008-05-25T16:29:00.000-07:00

Wow, today was just a beautiful day! They said it was going to rain all day today, but it came in early last night, and was clear and warm today.

Tom called me this morning, asking if I wanted to go out for breakfast with him and his friends Ron and Jim visiting from Portland.

We went to Luna Cafe, which is cool retro place, then we we went out for a drive around Seattle. We went over to the Freemont district where, of all things they have a Troll under a bridge. Now, you are thinking, right a troll under a bridge. Under the Aurora bridge lives a toll, it has become so famous the street under the bridge was just changed to Troll Ave.
As you are looking up the street you can see him.But as you get closer, you can see he is a pretty scary troll.
It is kind of fun, there were a bunch of kid playing on him before I took the picture.
Just one of the many cool things that are here in Seattle.

Yard work finally done

2008-05-17T18:35:00.000-07:00

I have been doing yard work now for about 3 weeks, mostly after work and on weekends but I am finally done. I am one tired bear.

Yes, of course I took pictures.....
This is the front yard before.

It is pretty much a mess. Removed the Lavender, because it was just getting out of control, but..now it looks a whole lot better.

I put down weed barrier and bark, as you can see I ran out towards the end I have to buy more.

Now, I bet you are wondering what I did with the lavender, no I did not toss it, I moved it.

There was nothing along that fence, just rock and the alley way. I think it looks a lot nicer there, and kind of blocks that alley a bit. I just hope they take. I have been watering and feeding them.

I am done with yard work now...all I have to do is the upkeep.

Oh, it was like in the upper 80's here today, August weather in May, go figure. Yes I put on sunscreen.

Ok, time to shower

Only Tuesday

2008-05-13T20:05:00.000-07:00

I promise I am getting better at this, and not waiting so long for updates.

Here it is Tuesday and I want the week to be over already, granted that tomorrow is Wednesday, half way through, but still this has been a long week.

I forgot to say, that on Saturday, Tom and I are no longer seeing each other. We both decided that seeing him only 4 days a month was really not a healthy relationship. We are still friends and will do stuff when he is here, but just as friends. I am still going down to see him at the end of the month, and that should be a lot of fun. Tom is great guy, and glad he is my friend.

That did get me thinking, I really don't think I am ready for a relationship. There is one person that I need right now, and that is me. I need to hunker down and take care of me. It is harder than I thought it would be.

You know that list I made a while back, I realize that person doesn't exist, no matter how hard I try, I will not find him. Sometimes I think I am meant to be single. I do have to say this, the guys that I have dated here in Seattle, have made me grow a lot, and now, because of them, I think a bit before jumping into a relationship.

I have also realized that if I do want to date and I want guys to ask me out...I need to drop the weight. No one wants to date a fat guy, hell, neither would I, and I am one. That should tell you a lot right there.

So, dating and such is on hold for a while, and I might go into hermit mode until I get my act together.

I have been doing a lot of yard work too...that helps a lot. It is a good work out too.

That is about it, nothing really exciting.

Time for bed.

PS Darcee, if you are still reading this, I have not forgotten about you.

Take Me Out To The Ball Game

2008-05-11T19:03:00.000-07:00

Today I went to a Mariners ball game. We played against the Chicago White Sox. Now the Mariners have been on a losing streak 9 or 10 games in a row. This is my third game I went to, since living in Seattle, the other 2 time I went we won. I told my friend Kevin, that since I was at the game, we are going to win. He doubted it.

Well, folks, we won 6 to 3, it was a great game. I think I need to get online and buy more tickets. Plus I like Safeco field. It has a moving roof, so if it is going to rain, the close it before the game. This was my first game with it closed. I think it is very impressive ball park. Time to get online and look for ticket

Mother's Day

2008-05-11T10:20:00.001-07:00

Well, today is Mother's day. To me, it is just another day, at least I like to try to treat it that say. It has a double whammy meaning to me, and not in a good way.

First, my mother passed away 13 year ago, since then Mother's day has lost it meaning. I had bf's in the past that let me "share" their mother, with me, but that just isn't the same. I do miss my mom very much. One thing I did to help remember her, is that her favorite flower was the daisy, so every place I have lived I plant daisies to remind me of her.

Second, my father passed away on Mother's Day, 4 years ago. That day is stuck in my mind forever. Took my Step mom out for lunch, then went and saw my dad in the care facility, and heading back up to Portland. When I got home, I got the call that my dad had passed away. I miss him a lot too.

I do have to say this, cherish the time with your parents, because you never know when they will be taken from you. I miss mine greatly, I have no regrets, but one...that they can't see what I have done with my life, and share that with them.

Ok, I got to go, I can't type anymore.....

The Diet Starts

2008-05-11T10:17:00.000-07:00

Well, as I said, they diet starts today and I will keep you updated. I do have to say this, I found out that scale at work was off by 20 pounds...so I did not get down to 275, I got down to 295. Which means my original start weight was 345 pounds, I didn't realize I was that heavy.

I am doing the South Beach Diet again, since I had so much luck with that before. So, my weigh in today on my new scale is 320 pounds...which means I gained 25 pounds. My 1st goal is to get back to the 295 and go from there.

Wish me luck

Sunny Day

2008-05-11T09:27:00.000-07:00

Well, the sun finally came out this morning, and the boys just love it. It has been threatening to rain for the last week, but never did. The weather guy said it was going to rain today, but it looks like he was wrong.

When the sun is out, the boys like it. I put there blanket on the floor in the sun and they lay here. I wish I could do that.

2008-05-09T22:47:00.000-07:00

I have been doing a little yard work, ok alot. I am taking before and after pictures. I did a spot to the left of the stairs going into the back of the house. I think it looks a lot better. You be the judge

I think I did a pretty good job and my camera takes good pics. The plant that are in there are Azaleas, they should bloom next year.

My next job is a mess in the front yard that I have let go to long..here is a preview.

Finally

2008-05-08T13:44:00.000-07:00

OK, I have stepped away from this from a bit and I am sorry. Call me lazy, but I have been trying to keep myself busy, plus doing a lot of thinking. Let me see if I can get caught up.

Work has been going good, bit busy, been working 10.5 hour days, 5 days a week. Friday's are all over time for me, which it nice, I could use the money.

Still seeing Tom, I think, kind of. He is a great guy, and I really like him, but seeing him once every two weeks is a bit tough. We went to a ball game a couple weeks ago and it was really nice. The last weekend in May I am going to fly down to were he works , LA, and spend the weekend. His birthday is May 28th and mine is June 2nd, so that weekend is right in between the two. It should be a nice trip. My brother lives in the LA area, so I am going to try to meet up with him when I am down there.

I finally met Kevin's new boyfriend, Kevin is my ex, he seems like a really nice guy. I went out country dancing, where he and Kevin where. Not the best place to try to have a conversation, with music blaring, and such. As long as Kevin is happy, that is all that matters.

The diet, well, sucks, I have gained 20 pounds, yes 20. No reason, just plain lazy and not eating right. I don't know how I do so well, the stop, for some reason I just can't continue on. That is a habit I need to break. I do like doing the South Beach Diet, that worked best for me, I just need to stick to it and hunker down.

I bought a new scale from Costco online, a really nice one, tell weight, body fat and body hydration. I am going to start my diet back up on Sunday, and weigh myself twice a week, Sunday and Wednesday. On those days I will post my weight on the site so you all can see how I am doing. Maybe some group encouragement will help. Granted, the only one that can really help me, is myself.

I also got a new camera from Costco online, really nice one. My other one was too old, so look for more pictures also.

I also have been doing a lot of yard work, at home. The weather has been semi nice, so I decided to get the yard work done. To be honest, I really do like yard work, hated as a kid, like it as an adult. So I have been pulling weeds, putting down sod, planting, just one busy bear. I will post before and after pictures so you can see my progress.

That is about it for now, I will post more later.

I will

2008-04-30T07:06:00.001-07:00

Put an update here shortly

Awwww..just Fark it!

2008-04-21T15:52:00.000-07:00

one of the site I like to go to is fark.com It is where I get most of my news. It is a pretty funny site, but the new on there is real news. hard to explain.

They also have FarkTV where they take news stories and redo them into to their own little movies. The best one I have seen so far is one they did when Dawn Wells, from Gilligan's Island, got busted with pot. well, you just have to see for yourself

I PASSED!!!!

2008-04-19T11:21:00.000-07:00

WHOO HOOOO!!!!!! I finally passed!!!

I got up this morning and took a drive to about Federal Way, 20 miles one way. I was going to go further but, as I was getting to the higher elevation, it started to snow, yes, snow. I turned around, and heading back to Seattle.

I went to the testing place, and it went really quick, but I didn't watch. I saw something print up, and I asked. Did I fail, he said no, you passed. I was so happy.

I then headed to the licensing office, and got my tags. WHOO HOO! I am legal again.

Now, it just needs to stop snowing! It is April, Dammit!

Blah!!

2008-04-15T08:05:00.000-07:00

So, here I sit at work, not feeling 100% after a semi-crapy weekend.

Saturday was beautiful, it was in the 70, I wore shorts, blinded people with my white legs, and such, it was a great day.

Saturday night, I started getting a headache but didn't think much about it.

Sunday morning, I was abruptly woken up at 5am and made a dash to the bathroom...needless to say I was not quick enough, had to change my sheets when all was done.

I felt fine most of the morning, then in the afternoon, I started aching, and getting really warm, bathroom trips, and to top it off, the day was crappy and raining.

As the day went on, I got worse, every joint in my body ached, even going up the stairs hurt.

I went to the store and got drugs, and laid on the couch and there I stayed.

I took some NyQuil and went to bed about 7:30, Woke up at 4:30 to get ready for work and my body said..NO WAY, fed the boys, went back to bed and slept till 8. 12 hours of sleep, I never sleep that long.

I spent the day on the couch and rested.

Today I am back at work, feeling much better.

I think I had a small touch of food poisoning, and my body was not liking it.

Oh, I also watched "No Country for Old Men" was a good , gory but good.

Ok, back to work

DENIED!

2008-04-12T08:22:00.000-07:00

Well, I took my truck in to the dealership, had the computer reflashed, and it set my back 126 dollars....The emissions place was still open..so I drove around a bit then got tested....Same damn thing....you need to drive around more.

So today I have to go buy a trip permit so I can drive around and hopefully pass next Saturday.

Let me tell you, I am not a happy bear.

New Truck..anyone..anyone....????

Today is the day

2008-04-11T04:36:00.000-07:00

Well, Folks, today is the day I take my truck in. Wish me luck

The offer is still there if anyone wants to buy me a new truck! ;-)

DAMMIT! Pt. 2

2008-04-05T14:53:00.000-07:00

Ok, you would figure that with all the driving I have been doing, I would have passed my emissions test.

I got up early and drove 30 miles before my test, and guess what, still no pass, but no fail. They gave me the ole "drive around more" schpeel , but I said...I have been doing that.

I then went back to the place where I had it repaired. They did a test on it, which took an hour. They called me and said.." Well, the sensors didn't reset, and you have to take it to a dealer where you bought it, to have your on board computer "reflashed"" I was like WTF! I told them, the place I got my truck was Huling Brothers and they are out of business. They gave me the 800 number to a Ford dealer and call them. They did not charge me, they did it for free.

So, I call them and they said it would we 92.00, I was like, ok, might as well. Made the appointment, and asked where they were located, and he gave me some address that was SW 68th, I thought, that is here in West Seattle. I asked what the cross road was, and he said Hwy 217 and I-5...I thought for a bit...and paused..then he said...Tigard. For you of those that don't know...Tigard is in OREGON! out side of Portland. I told him I was in Seattle..then he says..." Will you be driving down for your appointment" I almost bust out laughing. I told him no.

I called the repair place and told him they gave me a number to a place in Oregon. They gave me a local place...well Burien, I called..made an appointment. There Emissions guy only works Monday - Friday. So now I have to take Friday off and take my truck in.

I just want this over. Anyone out there want to buy me a new truck?

I Can Make You Thinner....Ya...Right

2008-04-03T07:08:00.000-07:00

So, Sunday I was sitting on the couch watching TV, not much was on, and I saw on TLC, was the program "I Can Make You Thinner". Now, I have seen the commericals for this for quite a while and never really paid attention, thinking it was a lot of hooey.

I started watching the show, being bored and such, and it was about cravings. So, I watched it. Lot of testimonials, and such, and he kept on saying..." I will show you how to do this when we get back from break" I was thinking..he is just leading us on.

So, finally towards the end of the show, as I was sitting there watching..and thinking..."I could go for a snack", he finally show how to stop cravings. I followed along...and OH MY GOD, it worked...my urge for a snack went away.. BOOM.

I did not snack the rest of the evening, when I used his technique. So, I deiced to try to stick to my diet again and use his process..and it worked.

Here it is Thursday, I have stuck to my diet and have not had any cravings or snack attacks. And let me tell you, I have weak will power.

Go to TLC's website, and look for "I Can Make You Thinner" it is worth it.

Seattle Weather

2008-03-31T06:44:00.000-07:00

Ya know I love Seattle...but this weather..I have to tell you..in the time I have been here, the weather on Saturday was the icing on the cake.

Morning was fine..cold and windy..bit rainy..pretty much the norm. Then in the afternoon, it was sunny on and off..Sun Breaks,but mostly sunny. As the afternoon went on...storm clouds came in...and got dark, THEN there was thunder and lightning, then the rains came....then sleat.. then SNOW... IN MARCH! Yes..Snow in March

Yep, only in Seattle can you can have all possible weather in one day.

I love it here.

DAMMIT!

2008-03-29T10:14:00.000-07:00

Ya know, I love living in Seattle, it is a great city, but one draw back is the wonderful emissions testing you have to do when you live in a big city. Usually I have no problem with them, I always pass.

I am the worlds greatest procrastinator, my tags are up this month, so I went and got my testing done last weekend. I failed the test, my check engine light was on. I went and got it fixed, and cost me 107 dollars...only 43 dollars short of getting a "waiver" if I did not pass this time. They said a vacuum hose was loose and they put it back on and the "service engine" light went off and I was ready to go.

I went back to get tested today and I didn't fail, but I didn't pass. Come to find out, the all the sensors did not reset, so it was not ready to test. The testing guy said, " drive around for about 25-50 miles and it will reset".

So, I get on I-5 and head South and go as far as Des Moines, and back...30 miles...that should do it. I go in to get reseted..and they were not reset. I was not a happy bear. THEN they told me... you need to driver 10-15 miles...let your engine cool down, then drive 10-15 more..let it cool down.. you should be ready by Monday. MONDAY! I work on Monday's and they are open the same hours I work. Do they stay open past 5...NOOooOOO.

So, now I have to drive around all weekend....See if I can get off work early on Monday, and pay to God that I can pass this friggen test.

Ok, I know what you are thinking. If I would have done this when I got my renewal papers, I would not be in this mess. Yes, I know that..thank you Will I learn from this? Mostly likely probably, it is a 50/50 thing. But I will tell you this...next year......I will get it done on time.

Ok..time to go out for another drive.

Ok, Funk is over!

2008-03-28T11:16:00.000-07:00

Ok, my funk has passed. I am getting my ambition back...WOOT!

I just need to get some things in order and then it is back to the gym and working out. I knew it would not be that long, funks usually are not.

I will be back to my old frisky self, in no time..

Cleaned up

2008-03-28T11:15:00.001-07:00

I clean up pretty good, don't I.

Lost Ambition

2008-03-24T04:55:00.000-07:00

My ambition is gone. I has been for at least a month. I try to diet, but I can't stay on it like I did. I try to work out, but the passion I had for it before is gone. Thing is, I don't know why.

This happens to me, I do really well for a bit, then boom, I am off back to the way I was before. This is a pattern for me.

I try forcing myself to go and workout, but something in my head over rides it. If I was able to harness the way I am feeling right now to make me work out, I would be running a marathon.

I am hoping this passes. I don't like feeling this way. I have gained 15 pounds, so that really doesn't help.

I will buckle down soon and be back to my old self. This is odd that this happens to me.

Second Part Unplanned Trip

2008-03-23T10:45:00.000-07:00

So, it has been a week, since I made my trip to Little Rock. I am glad I went, there was a part of me that said, no matter how much it cost, or what I have to do, I need to be there.

As I said, it had been about 13 years since I most of them, I had found a connection that I had lost. I don't know why I didn't talk to them in such a long time. Maybe it is because it is family. It was the wake up call I needed.

I promised myself to keep in touch with them and not to let so much time laps, and such.

It was a good visit, Little Rock is a quaint town. Went to the Bill Clinton Presidential Library, that was a nice place. I don't know if I would want to live there, but it is a nice place to visit.

I had my Aunt take some pics, she has a much better camera that I, and will post the pictures when she sends them to me.

That is about it. I do have more to say, but it is hard to put what is in my head, on here. Who knows, it might happen

Unplanned Trip

2008-03-19T20:33:00.001-07:00

I know it has been a really long time since I posted anything, mostly because I didn't have anything to post. Nothing exciting or anything like that happening in my life, that I could post...until last week.

On Monday the 10th of March, I saw I had a voice mail on my phone, I ignored it because I thought it was the stupid car loan people telling me my payment was due, my usual monthly call. I was going to just delete it, but decided to listen to it, I am glad I did.

It was from my sister, which surprised me, because we had just talked. She said that our Uncle Tom had called with some sad news. Now, my grandmother is still alive, she is 92, and lives with my Aunt and Uncle. The first thing that pops in my head is, Oma died, but she went on. She told me that my cousin Thomas, had a heart attack that day and died. I stopped the voice mail, and called her right away.

She had told me that Thomas was in the hospital that weekend with pneumonia, and the doctor released him, and that Monday, he had a heart attack and died. Thomas, was a year younger than I am, so it was a shock.

Thomas and I weren't close, and could not tell you the last time I saw him, but he was family, and anytime anyone from your family dies, it is a shock.

Only one thing crossed my mind, that that was, I need to go see my Aunt and Uncle, in Little Rock. Didn't care how much it cost, or how I was going to do it,I was going to be there.

Now, my mom was the oldest of 4. My mom passed away 13 years ago very suddenly, and that was the last time I saw most of my family. My father died 4 years ago and that was the last time I saw my brother.

So, the ones that are left, are my Aunt Maureen, Thomas' mother, my Aunt Sue, and my Uncle Larry.

I very easily could have said, "I can't afford it", "I can't get the time off of work", or some other excuse, the only thing that was going through my head was, "I need to be there".

So, when I went to work on Tuesday, I told my boss what had happened, and that I needed to be there for my family. I stared looking at flights and prices, after I found out what day the funeral was going to be on, Monday the 17th. I booked my flight for Saturday the 15th and returned on the 18th.

I just looked at the time, I need to get to bed. Plus my hands are getting tired of typing. Just so you know, this will be a long blog entry when I am done.

Bad Bear..Bad bad Bear

2008-02-21T09:03:00.000-08:00

I know..I know... I am a HUGE slacker and not updating this..i am a bad Bear...I will update shortly....

Update time...WOOT!

2008-01-28T13:02:00.001-08:00

Ok, ok..I know I have stepped away from this for a while, my bad....I need a spanking

First thing, ok, I have fallen off my diet a bit, yep, I did. This happens to me once in awhile. I haven' t stopped working out, thank god, but my eating part I have been slacking on. If I had stopped working out also, I would have put on a lot more than the 9 pounds I gained. I know I just have to hunker down and walk slowly away from the Ben and Jerry's. Damn Safeway for having them on sale. As I said, once I hunker down the weight will fall of like it did before. WOOT

I have dipped my toe in the dating pool, and I found the water to be quite pleasant. I have gone on 2 dates.
One was really nice, good guy, that is what I like, but ya know, there has to be that click, so, I don't know.
The other one was a REALLY nice guy, and fits about 98.9% of my list, which is nice.
Not to Jinx anything, but I am looking, forward to getting to know him better, and such. He is a really nice guy with a good heart, and a Longhorn.

The boys are doing fine. I had to take Dexter to the vet a couple weeks ago. Poor guy has a bone spur in his right shoulder. They gave me some meds, to help heal it, he is such a trooper for taking pills, I don't have to force them, no matter how bad they taste, he eats them right up. I think he does it, because he knows his brother isn't going to get any, so it is his way of gloating. "I get something and you don't"
But I do have to say, I am glad I have pet insurance through my work, because it cost a pretty penny. God I love my job.

I already want it to be spring, granted it is staying lighter now, but I want the rain to stop so I can get some work done on the yard. Funny, how when growing up, I hated yard work, but now as an adult, it helps me relax.

This last weekend, I went over to Tony, Tim, and Junior's to hang out and watch movies. Tony is in the Navy, so he was out to sea, it was just Tim and Junior. I took over 2 movies, Sunshine and Good Luck Chuck. Sunshine was ok, I was expecting more. Tim and Junior had seen it before, they liked it. Good Luck Chuck was actually funny. I am not a big Dane Cook fan, but Jessica Alba, is HOT! I know, you are thinking, how could a gay man think Jessica Alba is hot. Just because I am gay doesn't mean I can't appreciate a beautiful woman, and she is HOT. Not "team" switching hot, just so ya know. In between the movies we went out to dinner and they introduced me to "Guitar Hero 3". I will admit, I am not a big video game fan, but this was fun. I am not going to go out and buy a game console, but I know where to go now when I want to play a good video game.

That is about it, I am now all caught up! WOOT!

I KNOW!!

2008-01-25T03:44:00.001-08:00

It has been awhile since I have posted. I will get caught up soon.

Dipping my Toe in the Dating Pool

2008-01-09T14:24:00.000-08:00

So, it has been a little over a month since I became single, and I swear I must have a flashing Neon sign, that says NEWLY SINGLE FRESH MEAT!

I don't know if I am ready for that yet. I know I am always looking for new friends and such, and who knows where that can lead, but right now, I think I would like to increase my circle of friends. Guys to do stuff with that is just fun, hang out, movies and such.

Not that I am opposed to dating, and such, I just don't want it to seem like a "rebound" type of thing. Those never work.

I had a list once before on an older blog that I deleted that had the basics of what I was looking for in a man. I think I need to revise that list, and update it, because I am not the same person I was when I originally created that list. This is just a list for dating....friends don't need a list..cause....well, they are friends.

Here we go.
1. Around my age, +10 years, - 5 years
2. Non smoker
3. Not a heavy drinker
4. Good Heart
5. Honest
6. Passionate
7. Romantic
8. Dog lover
9. Can cook
10. Likes to shop
11. Likes to Camp
12. Outdoors man
13. Good Kisser
14. Facial hair
15. Body Hair
16. Caucasian
17. Nicely Equipped
18. Versatile
19. Damn this list is long
20. Can 2 step and waltz
21. Like country music
24. Neat and clean
25. Gainfully employed

That is what I have for now, the list will grow. Call me picky, but it is what I like.

2008-01-02T19:39:00.001-08:00

Here it is, second day into the new year, not a bad day. I was not feeling 100% when I got up this morning, so I called in to work to have the day to myself. It was something I needed.

Yesterday, work was boring, but I put in my 8 hours. That is good, because I got holiday pay also, so I actually got 16 hours. WHOO HOOO! Then afterwards, I headed to Burien, to my friend, Tim, Tony and Jr. "The Boys" for a nice Southern New Years dinner. When I got there, there were other people there I knew, it was nice.

They fixed, Ham, Collard Greens, black eyed peas, and Mac and Cheese. Tony said the Greens are for wealth for the next year, the peas were for good luck, and the ham was so you would not be hungry in the next year. I think I heard him right. And the Mac and Cheese..it was because they like Mac and Cheese. It was really a nice way to end the day.

Today, as I said, I did nothing. I did go see my friend Neil who is a reflexologist, Medicine Bear Healing Arts, is his business. My left foot has been bothering me and my doctor said it is becasue of my weight loss, and my foot size could be changing. So, I went to Neil, because he measures feet also. I did not know until today that to get a correct measurement, there are 3 different places you need to measure. He also wanted me to bring the shoes I wear the most so he could look at them.

Come to find out that I am not longer a13, but at 14D. For some reason, I thought my size would do down and not up. But now I know and there are some shoes I cannot wear any more, one of them being my cowboys boots. I can live with that, I can still use my ropers to dance, they are a size 14.

So, today was a good day, and I am back to the gym and work tomorrow...OH JOY!

Last day of the year

2007-12-31T07:47:00.000-08:00

Now, I could go on and post all my doings from the last year, but that would be long an boring, and I don't want to put you to sleep, so I will narrow it down to my last weekend of the old year.

I had a great weekend!!!

I went out country dancing Friday night, and had a great time. I even did something that I never had done before, and that was ask people I don't know, to dance. As someone told me, the worse thing they could say is no, but they didn't say that. So, I had a great time.

Saturday, I got my 500 gig external drive, and got my computer up and running and ran my 1st back up. I am thinking of getting Norton Ghost to run my back up. I also ordered a PCIMCIA fire wire card for my external drive and my DVD burner I already had.

Sunday, I relaxed and then had a really nice dinner out with a friend, it was a good way to end the weekend.

I am now at work, I know, working on New Years Eve, but what sucks more, is I have to work on New Years day also.

All and all , it was not a bad year. Tomorrow I have been invited over to a friend house after work for a Southern dinner, something about black eyed peas and good luck, it should be fun.

I am really looking forward to 2008!

Up and Running!

2007-12-29T16:16:00.000-08:00

Well, everyone, I am up and running. I got my new hard drive, and it is so nice not to hear a grinding noise. In fact, my computer seems to be running a bit faster.

Just so you all know, I did go to Costco today, and I purchased as 500 Gig External Hard drive, for back up and storage, so this will not happen, again. WHOO HOOO

Thanks again everyone who helped, I am a happy Red Bear.

Thank you Everyone

2007-12-25T09:20:00.000-08:00

As you might have noticed, I have taken down my donation link for my hard drive. Even thought this is my 1st Christmas alone, I have not felt alone once. Thank you everyone who helped me get a new hard drive, I now have enough money to get one, and get my laptop up and running again.

I also need to give a big thank you to my roomie, for letting me use his laptop, while mine is dying on the kitchen table.

I thought this was just going to be another day, but now I know that the Christmas spirit is very much alive.

I think it was in the "How the Grinch Stole Christmas" but my heart grew three times it size today

Thank you everyone and have a very Merry Christmas

Technology SUCKS

2007-12-23T09:18:00.000-08:00

I am pretty much a geek, I know a lot about computers and such. But what happened last night, will stab any computer person right through the heart.

My hard drive crashed.

we are not talking Virus or anything like that...It was like this.."what is that grinding soung" Then the Blue Screen of death, then nothing. I rebooted and just got a blinking cursor, and of course the lovely grinding sound. Did I back up my stuff..NOOOOOOO I have about 2 years of stuff on that drive, my banking, my taxes, photos people sent me, email addresses. All gone.

The worse part is, I don't have the funds to get a new hard drive. I had to take Dexter to the vet, last week becsue he was limping. And for you that have pets know...nothing is more important than their health!

So here is my dilema, I need a new hard drive, it could be a month before I can afford a new one, do I am going to swallow my pride and see if anyone want to "donate" to my hard drive fund.

Right now I am using my computer at work, and that will be the only internet access I will have until I get a new hard drive.

So, If anyone wants to help a bear out, I have set it up do that people can donate to my pay pal account.

I am sure I will get grief from this, but it can't hurt to ask.

To donate, just click on the link the right

Thank for you help

EVIL!

2007-12-19T13:51:00.001-08:00

Damn those Candy Canes..they are winning...they need to be BANISHED!

EVIL......EVIL........EVIL!!!!!

That is all I am saying......

Inspiration...me...go figure

2007-12-16T15:36:00.000-08:00

I woke up the other morning and logged into Bear411, and I had a message from someone that I had chatted with on off over the last couple years but not that frequently. He sent me message that surprised me, but in a good way. He said that he had been doing the South Beach Diet for 2 weeks, and had lost 8 pounds, and it was because he had been reading my profile on Bear 411, and I inspired him.

I was at a loss, I don't think I have ever inspired anyone before. I told him to keep up the good work and that I am glad he is doing well on the diet.

Me, an inspiration..who'd of thunk...

Candy Canes are EVIL!!

2007-12-12T07:18:00.000-08:00

Ok, I said it, candy canes are evil, pure sugar sweet evil!

Yesterday at work, they opened the "Holiday Lounge", that has snacks and such for us during the holiday. Such as, cookies, mixed nuts, chex mix, candy canes and juice and water. Now, the nuts I can have, that is part of the diet.

I was munching on some nuts (take that any way you want) and one of my co-worker had a candy cane and said, "here have one". I thought, what harm would it do. I had one, was good..but then, that taste lingered in my mouth, sweet, sweet Peppermint...I had to have another..just one, it would not hurt. And of course, one more...and one more.. and one more. Now I know how a junkie feels. There is just something about them, that I just could not stop.

I didn't touch the cookies and such, no urge for them just the candy canes. I had a piece of fudge later on in the day, and that didn't sit right with me, and I just stopped. I think it is because the fudge has the fat and sugar and Candy cane are just plain sugar.

I avoiding the "Holiday Lounge" today, good thing it is on the second floor.

My Diet

2007-12-10T19:23:00.000-08:00

So, yes, I have been dieting and such and people have been asking me how I have done it, so I am going to tell ya now.

Let me tell you this first, there is no pill, miracle diet, no drink, no quick fix. It is hard work, plain and simple.

You want to have to do this, you can't do it half assed or anything like that, if you don't you won't be able to do it.

Chose a goal that is reachable. Don't say that you want lose 100 pounds, that is great final goal, but not an original goal. I did my goals in 25 pound increments. If you goal is 25 pounds and you lose 5 pounds, having only 20 pounds to go to your goal, is a lot more encouraging than know you have 95 pounds to go. Once you reach your goal of 25 pounds, set your next goal of 25 pounds, it adds up quick.

Find a diet that suites you. I have been on many diets, but I found out that the South Beach Diet worked best for me. I had a friend that did the diet, and I was able to talk to him about it and how it worked for him, and how it would work for me. Do your homework, ask around, talk to your doctor. My family has a history of diabetes, that is why the South Beach is working good for me.

The last, but not least, the thing that everyone hates, Exercise. Just like the weight loss, start out with a reachable goal. Don't go out and try to run 5 miles in shot, you will hurt, get pissed and give up. Start out slow, set a goal that is reachable, and shoot for that. I just added weights to my work out after doing cardio for 2 months. Do something you like to do. At work we have bikes, treadmills and elliptical machines. I hate, HATE the elliptical machines, I did it once..got 5 minutes into it, and said...I am not enjoying this...got off and got on the treadmill, and was much happier.

So, to break it down

You have to want to do it
Make reasonable goals
Find a diet that works for you
Do exercises you enjoy.

That is what I am doing and it seems to work for me.

I suppose I should throw in, before starting any diet or exercise program, talk to you doctor, keep them informed, I did,and I am glad I did.

Good Luck.

Happy Birthday!!!!

2007-12-08T10:23:00.000-08:00

It was 8 years ago today, that 5 bundles of joy were brought into this world. Now, I know you are thinking, he only has 2 dogs...there is a story...Sit down..relax..and read.

Back when I lived in Portland, and was with my 1st partner Craig, we were watching a friends dog, Avery. Well, we had her for a couple years, and he wanted her back, before we gave her back we asked if we could breed her, and he said yes. Lo and behold, and one big pup, out came 5 male pups....Bear, Dexter, Baxter, Tucker and Guinness. I kept Dexter and Bear and gave the others to family and friends.

They are the joys of my life and I don't know what I would do with out them!

Happy Birthday Boys!!

The Boys enjoying an apple with peanut butter as a treat for their birthday

Caught up

2007-12-07T12:36:00.000-08:00

Now that I have started this again, I should tell a little about myself. I know, boring stuff.

I am 43, and live in Seattle, Washington, West Seattle to be exact. I can see the skyline of downtown Seattle from my living room. I am single, and have two daschounds, Dexter and Bear, their pictures will pop up in a blog or two, they are the best friends a guy can have.

I am a gay man, or a gay Bear, hence the name Red Bear, at 6'4', 275, furry...yep.. you can call me a bear. I am not a sterotypical bear, I listen to country music, a homebody, not big on partying or bars. When I do go out, it is to a local bar to go country dancing and that is maybe once or twice a month. I do like working out, in August of 2007, I weighed 325 pounds and figured it was time to do something about it. I had a friend that had success with the South Beach diet, and I decided to give it a shot. It seems to be doing the job, I work out 6 days a week and I am down 50 pounds. My massage guy called me a gym rat....I wanted to smack him.

That is about it for now, I will put more later

I am back

2007-12-07T09:54:00.000-08:00

It has been awhile since I have done a blog, I think almost a year. Now it is time for me to put one back up.

Give me some time to gget it up and running, and I will try to keep it updated.