Rounds Two & Three: Success, Success!

Hey, Bloggy Friends.

I'm writing to you today from hangover central. All aboard!

The remainder of the weekend with Alan's parents sailed by smoothly. We definitely broke new ground, and are entering a new era where we can all be happy, harmonious and free.

Yesterday afternoon we brought them out to Manayunk to see our place and to meet Mary Todd, Abigail and Galileo. The two of them fell in love with Galileo after he showered them both with wet, puppy kisses! Later, we went to Main Street to have a light brunch at a restaurant called Derek's. I had a pear and gorgonzola salad with organic strawberries. It was perfectly delicious. We all enjoyed ourselves, still had a ton to talk about and went about our merry way. They went back downtown to freshen up for the evening festivities, while Alan and I hung around the house taking care of Sunday chores. The landlord stopped by to show our apartment, and expressed his pleasure in how well we have maintained the place over the year. That made us both feel nice.

Around five we headed downtown to meet up again at Jude and Lou's. As always, they went out of their way to make us feel so comfortable. We enjoyed an impressive spread of appetizers and an array of refreshing beverages as we chatted each other up before dinner. Lou provided the entertainment. Besides being a constant jokester, he had female jazz artists like Sarah Vaughan and Helen Merrill playing smoothly over the sound system. What, may I ask, can set a mood of ease better than that? Not much. Well, unless of course you count the aroma of the slow cooking pot roast wafting through the air above us!

It's no secret that I'm a huge fan of the magic Jude works in the kitchen. She is one of those rare people who can take the joy of eating to a whole new level. So, needless to day, dinner was fantastic. We began with a first course of pasta and pesto. It was warm, smooth and delicious. Pesto is one of my favorite flavors in the world. Next she brought out the pot roast that had been teasing us all night long. Most of you know, I'm not a big meat eater, but after eating this I just may rethink my decision. It was so tender and juicy. It was infused with some flavor that made my toes curl up (in that good, I'm so happy way) every time I took a bite. Yum. As a side we had beets, that I assume were local and farm fresh, and a wonderful tossed green salad. And to top all of this off, we were served a red wine that complimented the flavors to perfection. Halleluiah!

For dessert we celebrated Alan's mother's birthday with a cake. It was freshly made from a local bakery. It was really good, but to be honest this was the moment of the evening when I started to realize I drank too much. I had two bourbon's on ice and probably two glasses of wine at dinner. The room started spinning a little, but it wasn't long before we were heading out the door. Thank you so much, Jude and Lou, for another extraordinary evening. I really appreciate all you did to make us feel at ease. You're awesome.

So, this brings us to the end of my weekend. Everything went very well with Alan's parents. Through each gathering I think we became closer and closer. I know their effort meant so much to Alan and it meant a lot to me as well. I'm already looking forward to having them back again!

I have to run now, though. I need to hop on the train for school in about 9 minutes. Thank you all again for the support you gave us over the weekend. I shared your thoughts with Alan and he found it as touching as I did. I am so blessed to have you.

Have a great day. I'll talk to you soon!

Love, Josh

Round One: A Success!

Hey, Bloggy Friends!

I just returned from having dinner with Alan's parents and it went really well! They were so nice. We hit it off better than I expected to. I'm really happy about it and so is Alan.

We met them at their hotel around 6, before we headed to a restaurant called McCormick & Shmick's. The dinner was really good, except for the fact that my fish was a little dry. The conversation flowed brilliantly all evening. We got to know each other as well as we could in the short time we had together. His mother is quite a character. She's sassy, fashionable and very funny. She and I had a lot to chat about. His father is such a gentle, kind, caring man. He has one of the longest southern drawls I have ever heard.

It really was a great time. I couldn't have asked for a better experience. Of course this is only the beginning. Don't get me wrong, I'm not saying we walked away as best friends, but it did go as well as it could have went. I'd say this is a great first step towards a future that is more open, honest and.... aware.

We are going to get together again tomorrow evening at Alan's aunt Jude's. I look forward to that. I'm sure she has a delicious dinner planned!

Before I go, I just want to say how touched I was with all of the support and advice you offered in your comments yesterday. I feel so blessed to have friends like you. You were right there when I needed you most. I appreciate it more than you know.

Have a great evening. I'll talk to you soon!

Love, Josh

Soul-Sister Saturday: Ann Peebles

Hello, Bloggy Friends, and welcome to my first installment of Soul-Sister Saturdays! Thank you all very much for stopping by. Today I would like to shine a deserving spotlight on soul-sister, Ann Peebles.


I discovered Ann Peebles while living in Chicago in 2003. I came across one of her albums, "I Can't Stand the Rain," while flipping through the soul section of a used music store. When I excitedly returned home to listen to my find, I knew I had come across a treasure. This is the kind of music I live for! I immediately fell in love with her gritty, southern-soul style of singing. On her songs she comes across as a strong, sassy, independent woman who isn't afraid to tell it like it is. As a prominent member of Memphis' Hi-Records label, (along with Al Green, and O.V. Wright) Peebles churned out some of the most soulful music on the planet - most of which came from her own pen.

Ann Peebles was born on April 27, 1947, in St. Louis, MO. Like most notable soul singers in their early years, she began singing in a gospel choir. As a teenager she toured the St. Louis club circuit before joining a blues revue under the leadership of Oliver Sain. In 1968, while on a trip to Memphis, Peebles was discovered by Hi-Records music producer, Willie Mitchell. Impressed with her strong vocal talents, he immediately signed her to his label. She was only 21 years old.

Before long, Ann was recognized as the best singer on the Hi-Records roster. Her biggest chart topping success came with 1973's "I'm Gonna Tear Your Playhouse Down." Throughout the early 1970's she continued to record a string of hits like, "99 Lbs.," "I Pity The Fool," "I Can't Stand the Rain," and my favorite, "Run, Run, Run." Through it all she cemented herself as a staple on the soul-music circuit.

The rising success of disco, and the selling of Hi-Records in 1977 brought a gradual end to Peeble's recording career. In the late 70's she took a hiatus from the music business to concentrate on her family life.

Though she returned to recording in the late 80's, Ann never regained her prominent status among soul audiences. Unlike other, more popular soul artists like Aretha Franklin and Gladys Knight, Peeble's name has faded into near obscurity. In the early 1980's Tina Turner recorded a cover of Peeble's hit "I Can't Stand the Rain," on her infamous "Private Dancer" album. Missy Elliott also recorded a unique cover of the same song in 1997, with The Rain (Supa Dupa Fly). Thanks to the re-emergence of her songs in popular music, fans have had an opportunity to rediscover this true soul legend. Ann Peebles, I believe, is one of the truest soul sisters. Listening to her organic, soulful records helps to transport me to a different place. She makes me sing, she makes me shake and she makes me want to get down and gritty right along with her. I love you Ann Peebles. Your contribution to soul music is undeniable. Thank you.

I hope you all have a great night. You can also click on some of the links above to see videos of her, and hear songs on YouTube. I will send a free CD to the first person who makes a comment. You better act fast!

Love, Josh

The Weekender: Flip-Flop, Mom & Pop Friday!

Good Friday, Bloggy Friends!

Are you excited Friday is here? I am. I've had a nice week, but it's always good to get away from campus for a few days straight.

I have a pretty eventful weekend coming up. Alan's parents flew in yesterday evening from Knoxville. I will meet them Saturday for the first time ever! Alan recently "came out" to them, when he found out they were coming for a visit. Until now, they have barely known I existed. I'm a little nervous, because I don't believe they are completely comfortable with the whole situation just yet. I'm looking forward to it, though. We plan on having dinner Saturday night and then we will celebrate Alan's mother's birthday on Sunday at his aunt Jude's. I'll let you know how everything turns out!

It looks like we still don't know if there will be a debate tonight. For all we know Obama will be taking the stage alone. McCain says he will not show up unless a firm plan has been established for the economy. The whole crisis does seem to be getting worse. I'm shocked at how quickly these banks are folding, day after day. I don't know what's in store for our country, but I hope the new bailout plan will benefit us all in some way and not just the big banks who have made unwise, financial decisions. It would be nice if the government decided to wipe away our student loans! I'm not sure how that could really help, though. It does seem as if things will be changing. Years of excess spending has put us in a great deal of jeopardy. Perhaps the crisis is exactly what we need to get back on a more even track - that and a Democratic President!

Well, I should run for now. I'm leaving for school soon. I'm having one of those mornings where I don't feel like showering. I think I'll throw on a hat and hit the train just like this! The sky is pretty overcast, so waking up is hard to do! Be sure to check back tomorrow when I will begin my new bloggy series, Soul-Sister Saturdays. The purpose of this new venture is to shine a light on some of the more obscure, female, soul singers and to share some of the music I have collected over the years. I love soul music and I love the women who sing it, so I am very excited to get it started! Come by tomorrow to learn about the first soul-sister in my series, Ann Peebles. You might even win a prize!

See you then!

Love, Josh

What, No Debate!?!

Hey, Bloggy Friends.

How are you guys tonight? Well, my blood is boiling. No, it's not because of the jalapenos I added to my dinner, but the shock felt after hearing that John McCain wants to postpone the upcoming debate!

I've listened to the pundits on the CNN say it's a "political strategy," and a "way to change the focus of the election," but I think John McCain has cold feet! That's right, cold feet. As I have followed this election over these past few months I have noted McCain's uneasiness when debates approach. First, he wanted to change the whole course of the debates by scheduling several, small, town hall meetings across America. Second, at the RNC he had the whole stage transformed in order to accommodate his comfort level before his acceptance speech. I think the guy has serious issues with public speaking. Maybe he doesn't feel as prepared as he should to get up and talk about the important issues facing America. Instead he wants to take cover in his Senate seat as we all wait patiently to hear him address us publicly on his capability to take command and change this country. I know he's participated in debates before, but never as a Presidential nominee. Maybe the pressure's getting to him, maybe he's not prepared, maybe he doubts his abilities compared to that of the eloquent Mr. Obama. I smell a cop-out, and it stinks - just like my jalapeno breath.

I think John McCain needs to take the stage Friday night and show us all why he thinks we should vote for him as President. I'm tired of him hiding behind his untactful commercials, "good political strategies" and influential supporters. I'm sick of his excuses about why Sarah Palin shouldn't talk to the media. It's time for this team to grow some balls and face their opponents in real time. We don't have time to delay for their personal comfort. We need a President who's ready to stand up at anytime and take care of business. Get on that stage John McCain. Get on that stage!

I hope you all have a great night.

Love, Josh

What I've Been Doing @ School

Hey, Bloggy Friends!

I hope everyone is having an great, new week. Are you excited about the Presidential Debates on Friday? I can't wait!

So, as you know, school has been keeping me pretty busy. I haven't had a lot of time for bloggy videos, but I wanted to make this one to let you know some of the things I've been up to lately. I am really enjoying my classes. I feel like I am learning a lot of very useful information.

In this specific assignment my group members and I were asked to record a process using sound. I think it turned out fairly well. We had a good time doing it.

Enjoy today's clip. Have a great afternoon. I'll talk to you soon.

Love, Josh

Weekend Update

Hey, Bloggy Friends!

I hope you have all had a great weekend. Ours has been pretty eventful. The weekends mean SO much more to me, now that I am back in school. Lately, by the end of the week, I am completely spent. I haven't fully adapted to spending five, full days on campus. It's not that I have to wake up any earlier than before, but the constant "on the go" mentality can be pretty exhausting. Can I get a "preach it, sister?" Anyways, the full week didn't keep us from getting out to have a fabulous weekend with friends.

Friday night, after a cat-nap, Alan and I wend to Old City to meet our friends Kaushik and Kaushiki for dinner at Cuba Libre. We have known Kaushik since we lived in San Francisco. He and Alan were in the same lab at UCSF. We met Kaushiki not long after we moved to Philadelphia. They were recently married in India, where both of their families live. The pictures I saw of the traditional, highly ornamental ceremony are the most beautiful wedding pictures I have ever seen. Besides the fact that they are a ravishingly stunning couple, the setting of their ceremony was breath-taking. It lasted several days and they followed every Indian tradition, step by step. It is fascinating to hear them talk about the things they went through. I believe I must have spent three-quarters of the evening asking them questions! If you are interested, you can click HERE to check out some pictures.

After dinner we headed down the street to a bar, whose name escapes me. We had a few drinks and spent an hour or so dancing. it was a lot of fun. I haven't been out dancing since I went to Montreal a few months back. It was so great to spend some time with them. Kaushiki actually lives in Columbus, OH at the moment. She is in grad school there, and hopes to transfer to a school in Philadelphia within the next year. I hope everything goes well in that transition. Not only would it be a lot easier for her and Kaushik, but I'd love to have her near. She's a ton of fun!

Saturday Alan and I spent the afternoon in Manayunk. We talked politics over cappuccino's at La Colombeand browsed some local stores for knick-knacks. The weather was great. We really enjoyed ourselves.

In the evening we drove to Wilmington to spend some time with our friends Kelly and Ed. Kelly's birthday is coming up, so we celebrated with a spaghetti dinner and cupcakes. After dinner we went out in search of a karaoke bar, but what we found was so sketchy we decided to call it quits all-together! It's always a pleasure to spend time with Kelly and Ed. They are doing really well in Wilmington. If you'll remember, they recently moved there from the bay area. I look forward to having them visit Philadephia in the near future. Click HERE for pictures of our evening together.

Today is the day we are taking it easy. We had to venture out for groceries in the early part of the afternoon, but now we are laying back, sipping wine and trying to keep the pets from killing one another. Galileo just won't leave those girls alone! I think I just heard Alan open the oven, which means we'll be enjoying our traditional salmy Sunday soon. It's a good thing, because my stomach just started to rumble! I have a few quick things to do in preparation for my coming school week, but other than that I'm free as a bird for the remainder of the evening.

I hope your Sunday is exactly what you hoped it would be and I hope your week brings a flood of smiles and good fortune. I'll talk to you soon!

Love, Joshua

Birthday Shout-Out: My Brother, Derek!

Hey, Bloggy Friends!


Well, September 19th is definitely one of my favorite days of the year - it's my brother's birthday! Though I was very young, I still have vivid memories of visiting my mother and him in the hospital when he was born. My dad and I brought a clown music box for him, and a Big Boy, hot fudge cake for mom Mom. My dad brought her one of those every time she popped out a baby. When we brought him home I remember reading to him, even though I didn't know how to read yet, and pushing him in his baby swing as he laughed and laughed. Those were special times.

Over the years he has become my best friend, and closest confidant. Though I'm pretty candid with everyone I love, there is still a side to me that only my brother knows. We have shared so many of the same memories and experiences that at times it seems like we are the same person in two different bodies. Don't get me wrong, though, there are definite differences! Having a brother is hands down one of the greatest blessings I have received in this life.

Today he is celebrating his birthday in Seattle among friends. Like I told you before he will be returning to Kentucky in a little over a month for a fresh start to his life. He will be living with my Dad in Louisville, as he contemplates his next move. My brother possesses so many creative assets, there are unlimited possibilities as to what he can, and surely will, do with his life. I'm proud of you, bitch, and I hope you have the best birthday ever. I hope we can spend it together next year!!

Let's all join in wishing my brother a great birthday. I hope you all have a wonderful day. It is really starting to feel cooler here in Philadelphia. I guess the temperatures are dropping, right along with the stock market. Yikes!

Wishing you love and prosperity,

Josh

Below are a few pictures I scanned of Derek as a kid. Enjoy!




Photo Credits:
Top Photo: Derek (Red Shirt) and I (Blue Shirt) on Easter Morning 1984.
Bottom Photo: Derek 1990.

Birthday Shout-Out: Eddie!

Hey, Bloggy Friends!


Our good friend, and bloggy neighbor, Eddie, is celebrating a birthday today. Eddie and I met when we were in the Garrard County High School drama class. We were putting on a hilarious show called Don't Rock The Boat, and became great friends. I have so many funny memories with Eddie and our mutual friend Nikki. We would load up in a car on the weekends and head to the town over, where we would ride around playing pranks, telling funny stories or singing our lungs off to some Beatles tunes. It was a lot of fun. Eddie and I have just started keeping in touch regularly again, and I'm so happy about that. He lives and works in Cincinnati as a high school English teacher. Last year he was voted one of the most influential teachers in his school — by the students. He stays busy hanging with friends and being involved in a lot of activities, such as a gay softball league. Let's all join together and wish Eddie a harmonious birthday this year. I hope it's the best one yet, Mammy!

Have a great day everyone!

Love, Josh

Naughty Bloggy Friends!

Hey, Bloggy Friends. Welcome to Time-Warp Tuesday!

I really enjoyed reading all of your comments on my post yesterday. I was shocked to see how many of us had been whipped in school for being naughty. Some of you rascals were even whipped more than once! After I was paddled, I remember being so afraid that my parents would find out and punish me. I kept it from them, and prayed my teacher would never tell. My Mom was one of the homeroom mothers, so she would come to my class quite often. I would shiver in my Nike Air Jordans anytime she'd walk in. I guess the teacher never told her, though, because I never got in trouble.

Since today is Time-Warp Tuesday, I thought I'd take the opportunity to expand on another funny situation that nearly caused me to get another paddling. It all happened on a rainy day that very same year. We weren't able to go outside for recess, so our teacher, Ms. Matlock, let us have "playtime" in the classroom. We were all scattered about the room in our little groups when my friend Crystal and I started to argue. I can't remember what the skirmish was about, but it led to her eventually taking my arm and pinching quite a plug out of it! I was in a lot of pain, but I wasn't about to let her walk away unscathed, so I reached forward and gave her a stinging pinch she'd never forget. My attack must have been a little worse than hers, because moments later she started to bawl. When Ms. Matlock saw there was a problem in the room she approached us to see what was happened. "He pinched me," Crystal cried.

"She pinched me first," I screamed before she had a chance to ask.

The whole class went silent as Ms. Matlock grabbed us both by the arms and led us into the hallway. On the way out she grabbed the paddle! "Oh no," I thought, "not again!" My bum was still stinging from the last blow.

Outside she asked us what had taken place. Crystal told her that I pinched her then held out her arm to show the gory evidence. In a strategic move I told the teacher something that I knew she couldn't whip me over. "Ms. Matock," I said nervously, "Crystal pinched me first and my Daddy told me whenever somebody picks on me I have to stand up for myself and fight back." In my mind I knew she could never punish me for something my father told me to do - and I got off scotch free! Right then and there Ms. Matlock bent Crystal over and gave her a whop I can still hear to this day. I felt kind of bad, but at least I wouldn't have to agonize over another paddling. I walked away feeling pretty smart!

A few years later paddling would actually be banned throughout the country. I believe Kentucky was one of the last states to implement that policy - so for me it came a little too late!

I hope you all have a great night. Thanks for all the great comments. I adore hearing your stories - so keep them coming!

Love, Josh the Pincher!


This is a picture of me and some friends at my 10th birthday party in that very same year (1988). Can you guess which one is Me? Can you spot my brother, Derek?

I, Josh Middleton Do Solemnly Swear....

Good Evening, Bloggy Friends.

As some of you may know I am a pretty big history buff. I have been reading historical novels ever since I was a wee tot. I remember being no bigger than a bean sprout, when I would walk into the town library to check out a book almost as big as I was. I wouldn't always finish it, but it excited me just to have it. I am particularly fascinated by women in history. So, you'll usually find me learning about different events that have taken place through various female perspectives. I usually get bored if there are too many men involved, so reading about their wives, mothers or sisters is a great way for me to learn about certain events that have taken place in our nation's history. There was a period of time when I became so involved, I told everyone I wanted to be the President of the United States when I grew up. I remembered the President's inaugural address and recited it to anyone who asked.

I am currently about to start reading a novel about our fourth First Lady, Dolley Madison called "A Perfect Union: Dolley Madion and the Creation of the American Nation" by Catherine Allgor. She is one of the few First Ladies I remember hearing anything about in early history classes. When reading about the birth of our nation her name would inevitably be dropped as the heroine who infamously saved the Washington portrait when the White House burned in the Battle of 1812. She is typically painted as a charismatic, boisterous lady who could run with the big dogs.

Before beginning a book I always take a minute to search through the pages of pictures that usually lie in the somewhere near the center. I love seeing what people looked like before I start reading their stories. As I was looking through the pictures that exist of Dolley's life I was shocked to see that a few actual dauguerreotypes exist of her. This may not seem like a big deal, or a surprise to you, but I was so excited. I have only seen painted portraits of her, so in a way she has always seemed rather imaginary. It was so neat to see an image of what she really looked like.

I'm excited to start reading this book. I don't have a lot of time at the moment for recreational reading, but I'll get through it slowly as the semester rolls along. It's nice to have a distraction from my sometimes daunting studies. This brings me to my question for the day: Are you reading anything now? Bloggy Friend Gary is, I'm sure. Any one else? What are you reading? What do you typically like to read? or do you despise it? Im interested!

Below I scanned a few of the dauguerreotypes I told you about. I'm not sure if you are a big fan of history, but maybe it will strike a cord of fascination within you like it did for me.

Have a great night. Do something that sends a chill of excitement down your spine!

Love, Josh

P.S. The above picture of me was from third grade (1988). Don't let that sweet smile fool ya, this was the first year I received my first (and only) paddling for starting a food fight in the cafeteria. It was also the year my little sister, Alexandra was born.






Credits:

Picture 1: Dolley Madison (R) and her neice Annie Payne Cutts. Matthew Brady 1948

Picture 2: "The Last of the Founders." Matthew Brady

This Just In... A Bloggy Minute.

Hey, Bloggy Friends!

It's that time of year again. Summer is over and our lives are moving right along. School is keeping me very busy, but I am really enjoying my semester so far - except for that whole lost notebook thing. I hope you are all doing fine also. I get the feeling everyone is sort of lost in busy mode at the moment. I'm sure once we get settled into our new routines, we will make our way back to the blogosphere a little more regularly.

I've been trying my best to keep up with everything that is going on with all of you, so I thought I'd take a minute to post a few bloggy updates.

My dear friend from home and bloggy neighbor, Monica, has some exciting news to share. She and her husband Gary recently announced they are expecting their first child! She is due in April 2009. I'm so excited for them and want to take a moment to say congratulations and best, best wishes to you both. I love you, girl!

My brother, Derek, has recently purchased a ticket back home. No, this isn't a vacation - he's moving back! He has been in Seattle for a little over a year now, and has decided his next move will be to return home to seek what's coming next for him. Let's all wish him the very best of luck in his new venture! Rock it, Shiela!

Besides being busy at school, Rick is currently involved in the 2008 Louisville AIDS Walk. He has played a part in this important charity for the last several years, and is seeking donations. Click HERE to show your support with a donation. Good luck, Girl!


Bloggy Friend Bill has made a new video about one of our favorite divas, Amy Winehouse. In honor of her birthday today, he has posted a clip of one of her rather erratic performances. It's entertaining, humorous and even kind of touching in a bitchy sort of way. As is the case with all his videos - this is a must see. Check it below.

As far as we are concerned, Alan and I are still involved in the apartment search. We have found one very good lead, and are waiting a few days to see how that pans out. I will keep you updated with all the glorious details. We've seen a lot of places, some nice, some terrible and some just too far from where we need to be. It's been a daunting task, but I'm hoping to see light at the end of the tunnel soon.

Have a fantastic evening/new week. I'll talk to you soon!

Love, Josh

P.S. Shout-out to Casey, Eddie, Charlie and Jeff. Love to you all!

A Wacky Wednesday!

Hey, Bloggy Friends!

Do you remember early on last semester I shared with you a really bad day I was having? It was the time I spilled an Odwalla all over my cashmere, someone called me a bug - yea, that's the one. Well, it seems I've been dealt a similar hand of cards today. I don't want to complain, because I try to keep my complaints to a minimum, but it would feel really nice if I could get a few things off of my chest with you for a moment. Do you mind?..... Oh, thank you!

So, it all started around one when I ventured downtown from campus to check out an apartment. I've been really excited about this one. It is in the exciting, new loft district of Philadelphia. The pictures we saw of it boasted tall ceilings, exposed brick walls and brand new appliances among other things. I couldn't wait to see it. When I arrived no one was there to take me up. I called the number of the person showing the apartment and she had forgotten I was coming. "I'll be there in five minutes," she shrieked. Well, twenty-five minutes and a full bladder later she finally showed up full of apologies. I really wasn't in the mood to hear them, so I gestured for her to get a move on. As we were walking up she turned to me and said, "So you're looking for a one bedroom, right?"

"No, we are interested in the two bedroom in unit 308," I replied hastily.

"Oh no," she winced, "the two bedroom was rented out already!"

I was headed in the opposite direction before she finished her sentence. As I hurried down Broad Street to catch my train I was already imagining the scathing email I would write to the rental company we are using to find a place. "Why had they not informed me of this? Is this what kind of business they run? You just emailed me earlier in the day to confirm this appointment!" To ease my tensions I reached into my bag to pull out the carton of chocolate soy milk I brought for lunch. When I pulled off the tab, in the midst of all this tension, a huge splash of it popped out all over my favorite, cream-colored, panda t-shirt! So, there I was in the middle of Broad street, chocolate milk streaming off me, trying my best to keep it on the sunny side. In truth, worse things could happen, so I just hopped on the train and went on to my Economics class. This was my last class of the day, so all I had to do was go for an hour, then I could go home.

When class was over I had a little time to spare before the train picked me up, so I walked down the street to Rite-Aid to buy some stain remover (for the chocolate stain). I found it easily, paid for it and made my way to the train station. When I got there I laid my notebook down to pull out my headphones and listen to an NPR podcast called "This American Life." (You should check it out.) It wasn't long after I pushed play that the train came to pick me up and carry me away like a calgon commercial. The ride was peaceful, and I was happy when the conductor yelled, "WISSAHICKON!" That was my stop! I got up to leave but realized something felt different, you know that feeling when you've been carrying something all day and you feel it missing when it's gone. It was my notebook! I turned to see if I had left it in my seat, but it wasn't there. I left it sitting at the train station after I pulled my iPod out. This wasn't just any notebook, mind you, this was the trapper that had all my syllabus', every class note since the beginning of the semester and all upcoming assignments! What a friggin' bummer!

So, here I am, at the other end of my pretty bad day - just hoping I've seen an end to my day of small travesties. I know in the whole scheme of things I don't have a lot to complain about. I'm healthy, able-bodied, sheltered and loved, but I can't help but feel a little bummed. I guess the thoughts that are comforting me most right now are that there are tons of other apartments out there, my shirt is all spray-n-washed and currently in spin cycle, and I can easily buy a new Mead notebook and reprint my syllabus'. Things could be worse, so I must keep it in perspective. We have so much more to be thankful for!

Thanks for listening to me rant, Bloggy Friends. In my process of regurgitating my frustrations, I have come full circle and feel a lot better! I hope you're all having a great night. Here's to a lovely tomorrow!

Love, Josh

P.S. Oh look, Galileo left a turd for me to clean up in my dressing room. Brilliant!

Time-Warp Tuesday: Mammommy's House

Hey, Bloggy Friends!

We haven't had a Time-Warp Tuesday in a while! Today's video is one that I took in the Spring went I went to Kentucky to visit my family. While at home in Garrard County I stopped by the home my Grandmother lived in before she passed away. I spent a large part of my childhood there, so being back definitely brought back a lot of fond memories. The house has changed a lot, but there was still an aura of familiarity that was undeniably present. I called my grandmother Mammommy. I haven't talked much about her around here, but she is definitely one of the most important influences in my life. She had one of the largest hands in making me who I am today. The aspects about myself that I love the most are usually ones that I attribute to her. She was supportive, loving, and a wonderful role model. She was my very first best friend, and I will never replace the position she still holds in my heart. I could fill up a million posts with fun experiences we had together, but I'll save those for blogs down the road. I hope you enjoy today's short video.

I hope everything is going well where you are. Things have been great here. I am feeling a bit overwhelmed at the moment with the beginning of school and the search for the apartment. It's a lot to keep up with mentally, but I'll be ok. At the moment I am having to make time between classes to jet downtown to check out apartments - then I rush back to campus to make it to my class on time. Besides the hectic pace, I am enjoying the process. We have seen several apartments that we really love, but we still want to look around and keep our options a little more open. I'll keep you updated on any new developments!

Have a great night. I'll talk to you soon!

Love, Josh

Birthday Shout-Out: Jude!

Good Sunday, Bloggy Friends!

We have another very special birthday to celebrate today - Alan's aunt Jude!

One of the best parts of moving to Philly so far has been getting to know Jude. She is a fascinating lady who has seen the world, knows everything about the Philly culture scene, and let us not forget the magic she works in the kitchen! Their company is always enlivening, we cherish every moment we spend with her and Lou.

She works here in Philly, for a major university, teaching English as a second language. Striving entrepreneurs come to her from various parts of the world, looking to perfect their English skills, so they can flourish as business people in this American dominated economy. The job is one on one, so you can only imagine some of the interesting people she must meet.

With a full social calendar, her motivated involvement in politics, and a beautiful home in historical Society Hill, Jude definitely has a life I hope to one day mirror.

Let's all wish her the best of birthdays this year. Like I say about so many of my friends, with the truest sincerity, this world is definitely a better place because she was born. I'm so blessed to know so many of those people! Happy Birthday, Jude!

Have a great day, ya'll!

Love, Josh

Fartin' Around on a Rainy Day.

Hey, Bloggy Friends!

I hope you guys are doing well today. It is wetter than a shark's tit in Philadelphia today. We are feeling some of the effects of Hurricane Hanna here, in the form of torrential rain and gusty winds. It is supposed to get worse as the evening progresses, so we are settled in for a rainy night at home. Sound cozy? I just wanted to drop by and say a few things that I've been wanting to share.



We did venture downtown earlier to check out an apartment near Rittenhouse Square. It was a great place in a fantastic location, but there were a few too many red flags. It was located right next to a large parking lot, which would be right underneath the bedroom window, the rooms were too small to accommodate our furniture and their were apparent problems with the insulation. The heating bills are astronomical in our current place because of insulation problems, so we definitely don't want to run into that again. So, our search continues!

We are so proud of our little Galileo! For the longest time he has had an issue with climbing down our staircase. He learned early on to run up them, but once he's at the top he is too frightened to master the descent. It's kind of a pain to have to run up and carry him down whenever he goes up, so we've been slowly trying to teach him how to do it. Over the past week I have been placing him on one step, then two, then three and etc. to help him adjust little by little. Well, by the time he defeated six steps he said screw it and decided to try it from the top - and he did it! We were so excited, it was almost like he was taking his "first steps." We praised him and gave him some lovin', so now he can't stop running up and down over and over again! He's so proud of himself. What a doll.

Well, the last thing I have to say is the most random of all - but I was thinking how well Tina Fey could impersonate Sarah Palin. Wouldn't that be great? They look very similar. I bet we may be seeing her on Saturday Night Live giving it a shot soon - if she can get away from the set of 30 Rock.

Have a great night, stay dry (I know it's raining in D.C. too) and I'll chat with you soon.

Love, Josh

Thoughts?

Hey, Bloggy Friends!

Before I turn in for the evening, I wanted to stop back by and share my thoughts about the speech I heard Sarah Palin give tonight. First of all, I was appalled at Rudy Guiliani's vehemently negative remarks on Obama. They were mocking, absurd and flat out distasteful. After hearing that and the rowdy whoops from the crowd, I started to become a little skeptical about what Ms. Palin would say. She stayed fairly clean until the end, and then ripped on Obama. She mocked his motivation for change, and his innovative beliefs, she questioned his experience and belittled the work he did before running the Presidential campaign. While I am happy to see a woman standing in the position she is in, I would much rather have heard her keep give a more dignified, positive speech. I was a little excited in the beginning at the prospects of seeing a woman on the ticket. I automatically became a little more interested in what the Republicans had to say. I never considered voting their way, but my curiosity level definitely peaked. I really want to like her, but I just can't commend a person who speaks so adamantly agai

I don't want to risk becoming too political here, so I'll call it quits.

I hope you guys have a great night. Sleep tight and have a great day tomorrow!

Love, Josh

Positive Vibes

Hey, Bloggy Friends!

I hope you're all having a nice hump day! I started back to school yesterday and everything seems to be going great so far. I am really excited about this semester. I have some interesting professors and many of the classes I have promise to be fascinating. It's a full schedule, though, and it's also going to promise to keep me on my toes. I"m ready for it!

Before I settle in to begin watching the season premiere of America's Next Top Model (complete with the series' first transgendered model!) I thought I would take a second to send out some well wishes to Governor Sarah Palin. As you may know, she will be delivering a major speech tonight at the Republican National Convention in St. Paul, MN. She doesn't necessarily represent the vision I personally have for the direction this country should move in, but we can't deny the fact that she will be making important history as one of two women to ever be nominated on a major party's Presidential ticket. I believe she has been the target of much unfair, media scrutiny lately. Unfortunately many biased news sources have chosen to focus on ridiculous aspects of her personal life, in an attempt to discredit her capabilities as a public office holder. She will take the stage tonight under a vast amount of pressure - and I wish her the very best. I hope she knocks it out of the park, and establishes a name for herself as a strong, capable woman who could handle this task set before her. I don't want her to win the nomination in November, but I believe her success throughout the campaign could help to positively boost this country's view of a woman in power. And who knows, after a few years with an inspirational Democrat in office, maybe she'll change some of her views and be a desirous candidate for us all to vote for in the future! Good luck, Ms. Palin!

I hope you all have a great night. It's a hot one in Philly!

Love, Josh

A Perfect Summer Wrap-Up

I'm black (I mean, back), Bloggy Friends!

I hope you guys have had a fantastic weekend. We returned yesterday evening, completely rejuvenated and ready for what's coming next. We had a great time in Ithaca. I feel like I found a piece of myself there. The whole experience was exactly what I was looking for. We were sheltered from the hard-hitting city life and given the opportunity to lie back and take in the refreshing, natural scenery that Ithaca offered. It's a neat place, this Ithaca, nestled in the valleys of the Finger Lake region of New York. This small, liberal town offers an interesting mix of the ultra-scholarly types and the grungiest of hippies. Besides it's eclectic downtown area, Ithaca is famous for the many, impressive gorges located in the area. These gorges were created millions of years ago as massive glaciers carved their way across the land during the ice ages. We spent most of our time exploring "The Commons", or the center of town, and all the areas surrounding it. To the west we found Cornell University, arguably one of the most prestigious schools in the country. To the northeast we hiked the trails up to the phenomenal Taughannock Falls State Park, and spent one afternoon in the wineries of Seneca Lake - which lies due northwest of the town of Ithaca. Galileo, like I mentioned before found a piece of himself too. He had the greatest time you could ever imagine, running through the fields like a wild coyote!

I can't rave enough about our bed and breakfast. The Log Country Inn is located in Spencer, NY. The rooms are surrounded by acres and acres of lush forest land. It is owned by a woman of eastern European descent, named Wanda. She is a fantastically diverse lady who prepared unique breakfasts for us, and our fellow guests, every morning. One day we had a traditional Japanese breakfast, another we had filling Russian pancakes before she made her specialty on the final day - Polish blintzes! Breakfast was a fun time because we had a chance to sit around and chat with the other visitors. We met some characters, and made friends we could exchange travel tips with every morning. Our cabin was the furthest away from the main house and for the most part we had it all to ourselves. It was great! I'd love to take a bunch of you Bloggy Friends back and take up every room of the place. We'd have a rip-roarin' good time!

This trip was a perfect way to wrap-up my wonderful, summer festivities. What a summer it has been! I've done a lot of adventurous traveling, housed some of my best friends as guests and spent time with others visiting the city. I couldn't think of a better way to spend it. As I sit here, my mind is all aflutter at everything I need to do in preparation for my first day of classes tomorrow (Tuesday). I'm really excited to get back. This will be a busy semester for me, but one that I feel will be completely productive and rewarding.

You can access our album of Ithaca photos by clicking this HERE. I have also attached a video of some of my favorite parts of the trip. Please forgive me, the thing is a little over seven minutes long! Feel free to start and stop it if you don't have the time to sit through it all. I usually keep my videos very short, but there was just so much to share and I didn't have a lot of time to make several of them like I have in the past. I hope you enjoy!

Have a great night. I will talk to you soon!

Love, Josh