Singin' Our Hearts Out!

Hey, Bloggy Friends!

Well, we are officially in the midst of the busy holiday season. Are you feelin' it? Are the holidays going to be any different for you this year, because of the country's crummy economic situation? I've never been one to spend a ton of money on Christmas gifts, so I don't see it being too different for me. As a student with limited funds, I'm definitely on the look-out for creative gift ideas that won't break the bank. My gifting theme this year is going to be "locally bought gifts." I also want to purchase things that are eco-friendly whenever possible. I like creating themes, because it makes Christmas shopping fun and adventurous!


I hope your week is off to a great start. Mine started with a bit of a hangover! Sunday night we went to Yakitori Boy for my karaoke birthday bash. I had such a great time. Several of my good friends, and even some new ones, showed up to celebrate and sing the night away. I was really impressed with the room itself. It was very comfortable. It accommodated everyone very nicely. There was an on-call waiter, serving drinks and food whenever we wanted. The karaoke machine was state-of-the-art, though figuring it out was initially a bit complicated. We spiced up the evening by playing a few "karaoke games." Everyone had a chance to sing a couple of times, and everyone REALLY got into it! We even decided to stay an extra hour past the allotted time schedule. I had a great time. It was too dark to make good videos, but I did take several pictures that you can check out by clicking right HERE. Thanks to everyone for coming, and for helping to create a special night together!

I only have two more days of classes left. After tomorrow, the rest of the week is set aside for studying. Next week begins the exam schedule, which will have me heading back to campus for only three more days. I can't tell you how excited I am to get it all wrapped up. There are a few classes that I can't wait to put behind me, specifically ECON. Yuck.

I hope you guys have a great day. I notice several of the blogs I frequent have been rather quiet lately. I'm guessing it's a busy time for everyone right now. Whatever your situation is, as the year-end approaches, I hope it goes smoothly. Have a great day. I'll chat with you soon.

Love, Josh

Thanksgiving with Bill & Gary

Happy Black Friday, Bloggy Friends!

Well, we had a fantastic time at Bill and Gary's yesterday. I am so thankful we had the chance to go there this year. The four of us created wonderful Thanksgiving memories to carry all throughout the year. I can't say enough about their truly wonderful hospitality. They were so generous, warm and caring. We immediately felt right at home in their fabulous, cozy home in Washington D.C. It was filled top to bottom with books, eclectic art pieces, and a ton of furry friends to keep our legs warm. I love their sense of style. They have collected so many neat things over the years. Gary has so many books. You wouldn't believe it. I kept finding myself distracted as I browsed the thousands (literally) of titles, and feeling inspired to read more in my own life. I love books.

We drove down Wednesday night. The traffic from here to there was steady, but we didn't find ourselves stalled. We made great time. They welcomed us into their home with a crackling fire, a spread of hors d'oeuvres and an endless supply of red wine. We spent that night relaxing in the study, chatting and watching Bill as he brined the turkey for the next day. It was an interesting process. I had never seen anything like it before. When it was time to retire, Alan, Galileo and I slept cozily in the guest room they prepared so lovingly for us.

The next day was all about the food! When we woke up Bill and Gary were already in the kitchen getting things prepared. They really worked so tirelessly to get things finished. We started the morning with one of the nicest breakfasts I have ever eaten outside of a restaurant. They prepared one of my favorite dishes - Eggs Benedict! To compliment this little piece of heaven, we were served mimosas and one of Gary's specialties, a fresh fruit salad, loaded with grapes, cherries, pecans, peaches, and an array of plump berries. It was titillating! What a way to start the day.

As the turkey slowly cooked in the oven, we took an hour long walk over to the famous Rock Creek Park. It was an unbelievably beautiful day. The park was gorgeous, and so close to their home. I'm glad we had a chance to do a little site-seeing. It was also nice to work up another appetite after that wonderfully filling brunch.

Well, I can't even think of the words to describe what happened next. You should have seen the dinner spread they laid before us. They packed the table tight with so much food, I could hardly believe my eyes. We had turkey, whole rainbow trout, two kinds of stuffing, pecan-cranberry relish, sweet potato casserole, mashed potatoes, gravy and a root vegetable salad. A mere description could never do justice to the way it was so beautifully presented. Everything was so fluffy, steamy and fresh. My goodness, I'm getting chills just thinking about it. Bill and Gary went so far out of their way to make this the most absolutely perfect Thanksgiving dinner I could have ever imagined. It was heavenly. For a good hour we sat around the dinner table eating, drinking, chatting and laughing. What more could you ask for?

Pumpkin pie - that's what! When dinner was over, and when our food had some time to settle, Alan brought out a delicious, organic, pumpkin pie he had made. It was fantastic. To conclude our stay we sat around the fire with dessert, warm coffee and a bunch of furry, animal friends. We were becoming so comfortable, that having to leave felt forced and unnatural. Our time with Bill and Gary was starting to feel like a way of life! Thank you guys so very much for everything you did. You truly helped to create what will remain one of our most cherished Thanksgiving memories. I am so thankful.

I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving as well. Like I mentioned earlier, ours has only just begun. Tonight we are going to Jude and Lou's. I can't wait to see them. You can check out pictures of our stay at Bill and Gary's by clicking right HERE. I hope you enjoy. Check back soon for a video. Have a fantastic break!

Thankfully,

Josh

Spooky Pookie!

Happy Halloween, Bloggy Friends!


Do you have big plans for this dark and gloomy Halloween night? I don't think we're doing much this evening, but we are going to a party tomorrow. I'm really excited about it. We had to miss out on Halloween last year, because we were so new to Philly we didn't know anyone. After a year we've made some friends and have party invitations to boot! Check in to see what our Halloween costumes will be. We have an idea about what we want to be, but we haven't actually bought the outfits yet. We'll go shopping tomorrow. If we don't find what we're looking for we'll just come up with something else. I love dressing up! The picture above is of me when I was Marie Antoinette in 2005.

It's going to be a crazy day in Philly today. There is a parade going down Broad Street at noon for the Phillies. Alan said the train stations were already packed this morning with people wanting to beat the crowd to find a good spot. I can hear horns blowing and people screaming again. All of my classes, but one, have been canceled because of it. It's a pretty big deal. I don't think I'll attempt walking up to Broad to check it out. I'm not big on large crowds, especially large crowds of Philly sports fans. From what I saw the other night, they're pretty wild! I finally posted the video below of what we saw from our window Thursday night. Check it out if your interested!

Have a great night. Don't let the goblins get ya!

Spookily,
Josh

Dad & Dawn's Trip to Philly

Hello.Hey, Bloggy Friends!

I hope you all had a great weekend. Ours was jam-packed and fabulous. My Dad and Dawn came to Philadelphia on Friday and stayed with us until Monday. We had such a great time. This was their first time in Philadelphia, and they were really impressed with what it had to offer.

We started the weekend off right, when they arrived Friday, by going to see our current show at The Philadelphia Theatre Company, The Happiness Lecture. They both loved it so much. My Dad said he hasn't laughed that much in a long time. I was so happy they enjoyed it. Afterwards we walked West on Lombard to an awesomely authentic Italian restaurant called Bistro La Baia. I can honestly say this was the best Italian meal I have had in the U.S., ever! It was a small, quaint place and they treated us like we were a guest in their home. It was fantastic. Let's go there when you come and visit, Bloggy Friends.

On Saturday we kicked off the afternoon with brunch at Le Bus on Main Street in Manayunk. Later we went to the Philadelphia Art Museum to check out the Modern/Contemporary Art section, and the Europen Art from 1100 to 1850. I am so impressed with this museum, you guys. It is definitely a world class, state of the art venue. I attached a few pics of some of my favorite pieces in my photo gallery HERE. I am so happy to have it so near. Let's go there when you come visit, too.

Saturday night, after tooling around the Historical District, we ate at what is now one of my favorite restaurants in Philadelphia, Farmicia. Farmicia is a fabulous restaurant in Old City that serves local, organic foods. It was so delicious. We had such a great time that we sat there for two hours at least, eating, chatting and sipping wine. Bloggy Friends, can we go there.... Oh, you know the rest..

We designated Sunday as a shopping day. Dawn wanted to check out Ikea, because there isn't one near her in Kentucky. We spent hours there, and each of us ended up with a cartload of goodies to take home with us. Shopping at Ikea is always an exhausting experience - but well worth the time spent. That evening we took Dad and Dawn to get a Philly Cheese Steak (they had to have one). We found out about a great place just around the corner from where we live, and they loved it. After dinner we walked along Kelly Drive, and looked at the city all lit up before returning home to bed.

I enjoyed myself so much. It was so good to have my dad here over Father's Day weekend. I believe this is the first Father's Day we have spent together in like 8 years at least. I'm not big on made up holidays, but it was still a nice thought. My Dad is so great, and Dawn is a ton of fun. I hope they decide to come back and visit us again soon! I love you both so much.

Enjoy my slideshow below. You can also click HERE for my Flickr album. You will find more pictures there, and they're in color! I'll also put a video together of our trip soon.

Have a great day. I love you all and hope you have a fantastic day. Welcome home Mimi!!

Love, Joshie

I'm Pooped!

Hello.Hey, Bloggy Friends!

What a whirlwind of a few days this has been! I honestly don't think I have sat down to rest since - well I can't remember when. As you know, Wednesday afternoon Casey flew into Philadelphia for work. He was only here until Friday afternoon, but we were fortunate enough to spend a little time together every day he was here. His hotel was literally steps away from my work, so at nights when I finished I would just pop by and we'd head out on the town. Friday afternoon before he left we spent the day together touring some of Philadelphia's historic sites. I saw the Liberty Bell for the very first time! We closed our visit with a little lunch in Old City, and some light shopping on Walnut. We had such a fantastic time. It was so great to see him. Having him here helps to reconfirm my belief that God blessed me with some of the best friends in the whole world. You're the best, Mimi!

Saturday afternoon Alan and I met up with his aunt, Jude, to see the latest play put on at PTC - The Happiness Lecture. This play, starring Bill Irwin, was a highly entertaining piece of performance art. I was a little skeptical going in, because I thought it was going to be a silly show about clowns and magic - boy was I wrong. It was such an uplifting, comical show that had me laughing out loud - and holding back tears of joy at the end. The show was full of dancing, singing, special effects and puppetry. One of my favorite aspects of the performance was the usage of the entire theatre space, by the actors. They were running through the aisles, climbing up rafters and even communicating with some audience members. It was fantastic. If any of you are in the Philadelphia area - I totally recommend seeing this show. Bring your loved ones and be prepared to be overjoyed! It's a winner.

As always it was fantastic to see Jude. When the show was over we headed to a restaurant on Pine Street, called MIXTO. We conversed over drinks and a little dinner. Jude's husband, Lou, was a little under the weather, so she had to rush off a little quicker than usual. We hated to part so early, but hope to see them again soon when Lou is all better. Speedy recovery!

Today we woke up and took care of all our puppy duties. This includes several potty breaks, feeding, playing, and watching him incessantly. It is starting to feel like a hassle and is a huge reason why I don't feel like I have been able to chillout in days. He has been doing so much better since my last post, though. Thank you all for your advice. Around one o'clock we headed a few miles away to the home of our pet sitters, Scott and Zoe. They have been helping us out since December when we go on vacation, or when we are not here during the day to take Galileo out. They were hosting a Garden BBQ for friends and clients, so we went along to meet some folks and let Galileo socialize with other puppies. He had a great time running around with this cute French Bulldog named, Driver. They are about the same age, and nearly the same size, so they became fast friends. It was great to see him take so well to other dogs. We also met a lot of interesting people. The food was delicious and the weather was fab. I'm loving the Philadelphia summer.

So, as you can see we have been running rampant over the past few days. It has all been worth it, but like I say in my title - Josh is pooooooooped! I have some great videos to share of Casey's visit, and of course the final two parts of our Kentucky road trip - so stay tuned for those in the coming days. When I close this blog I am going to head downstairs, make myself some warm tea and crash on the couch for the rest of the evening. Does that not sound dreamy???

I hope you guys had a lovely weekend and here's to a perfect week. Below is a slide show of PICTURES we took over the past few days - most of which are from Casey's visit. Gotta run, Galileo is barking for some attention!

I love you all. Good night.

Josh

Puppy Progress, Pt. 1

Hello.Hey, Bloggy Friends!

Well, yesterday marks the first day we brought Galileo home. He has definitely brought a little more sunshine into our lives. He is adorable, cuddly and a bundle of laughs for both of us.

This week also marks the very first week Alan and I have EVER house trained a puppy. Acclimating cats is a much easier job. You basically bring them home, show them where the litter box is and BAM - they have it! Puppies, as a lot of you know, are a totally different story! By the end of this first trial run, I am still sure that I am a cat person through and through.

I won't lie - I'm getting a little frustrated. It doesn't really seem like he is "getting it" yet. He goes outside and pees when we take him, sure, but I don't have the feeling he knows outside is the only place he can pee or poo. Sometimes we'll take him out and he'll just sit there in the grass starring at us, then as soon as we bring him in he pees on the rug! We are doing everything the books are telling us, but it seems like they leave out a few minor details - like, it isn't as easy as it sounds! He definitely understands that he gets a treat when he goes outside, which is a good thing. He'll squat and pee, then run right for it. But like I said before, that doesn't keep him from squatting in the house. I know it's only been a week, and all we can do is keep trying. It's just hard when it doesn't seem to be going the way you expected. I would really appreciate some words of encouragement, Bloggy Friends. You have all been so good to me already, with your advice and support. I know it will all work out, but I need to vent to someone!! He just seems so defiant and I need to know if that's normal!

There is also the issue with his crate. All the books say he will LOVE his crate - well he doesn't. He is miserable in his crate. We have bought cushions, comfy blankets, fill it with toys, give him water and still he barks like a banshee when he's inside. I feel like he sees it as punishment. He basically kept us up all night last night, whimpering and barking from it. We can't show him attention when he does that, because he'll think it works for him. So, we just lay there and let him do it - to no avail.

On a more positive note, Mary Todd and Abigail are slowly adjusting themselves to Galileo. I notice that they are getting closer (especially when he is asleep) to sniff him and see what in the world he is. When playing they start to wrestle around, but they both play so differently. He's all about nibbling and they are all about clawing. I think they'll find a meeting point eventually. He has tried to snuggle with them a few times, but they aren't having it yet. He is a puppy still, so his energy far surpasses their mature, teenage cat years. I look forward to the day when they play, sleep and cuddle together. How sweet!

I hope you don't mind if I take a little time on the blog to post our progress with him. I feel like it will help me along the whole process. I have attached pictures to make it more entertaining for you, if you don't feel like listening to me gripe! I appreciate you're advice though, you have all been so helpful. I would like to give a special shout-out to my friend, Charlie. He lives in Tampa with his partner Jeff. I met them both in 1997 when we were all in the same fraternity (Lambda Chi Alpha)! We just so happened to be the only (secretly) gay ones around, so we have kept in touch after all this time. They are great guys and have helped so much with advice and such on the puppy. Thanks Charlie!!

I hope you all have a fantastic day. It's hot as Hades in Philadelphia today! I love it.

and I love you,

Josh

Birthday Shout-Out: My Friends Tim & Sarah

Hello.Hey, Bloggy Friends!

I hope you guys have had a funtastic weekend. I'm sure you are all jazzed about the three-day break! We've had a lot of fun over the past few days. Last night we attended a birthday party for my friends (& co-workers) Sarah and Tim. Their birthdays aren't until next week, but they wanted to go ahead and celebrate this weekend for whatever reason. To kick off the night Alan and I joined Sarah, and her friend Jackie, at a vegetarian restaurant in Chinatown called, SINGAPORE. It was delicious! From there we met up with a larger group of friends at a pub on Sansom Street called FERGIE'S. We basically had a whole room upstairs to ourselves. Everyone seemed to have a great time. We had drinks, chatted, acted silly and tried unsucessfully to sing with the band. It's always fun for me to spend time outside of work with my co-workers. It's a great chance to get to know one another on a more personal level. I really do work with a great group of people. I'm so thankful.

Everyone join me in wishing Sarah and Tim a happy birthday! I think Sarah stops by the blog from time to time. I hope you guys have awesome birthdays. Thanks for being born!

I've attached a slideshow of pictures from the evening below. You can also check them out HERE, to see the pictures in color. I just liked the black and white/curtain effect!

Have a great afternoon. I'm going to be honest and admit that I'm nursing a pretty grueling hangover. Ugh!

Love you all to pieces!

Josh

Dining Out For Life: The Whitney Version

Hello.Hey, Bloggy Friends. My friend Casey is so in the know. While reading his blog yesterday I discovered an event that was taking place here in Philadelphia tonight. It is called Dining Out For Life.

Dining Out For Life is a fundraiser that asks area restaurants to participate in a charitable cause by donating a certain percentage of it's earnings to an HIV/AIDS foundation. Throughout the year you will find that the event takes place in about 40 different cities across the nation. Tonight (May 1) it happened here in Philadelphia, where the organization began 20 years ago. There are over 200 participating restaurants throughout the Delaware Valley, who all donate a third of their proceeds to people living with HIV and the fight against AIDS. According to the the Metro, Philadelphia raised over $277,000 for the cause last year! That's pretty big, considering it only takes place one night a year. Proudly, Philadelphia is one of the countries biggest earners, but Nashville is showing very impressive numbers since it's start only last year. Go Nashville!

You can check the WEBSITE to see when it is happening in your area. It's a great way to give if you have ever been interested in seeking out a good charity to provide to. When searching the website we noticed that there was only one participating restaurant in Manayunk - but it just so happened to be one of our favorites! Adobe Cafe is a Mexican fusion restaurant that has a fantastic vegetarian menu. They use meat substitutes like tofu and seitan in fajitas, burritos, quesadillas and etc. We ordered just about as much as we could handle - appetizers, entrees, drinks and all! It's a great night to eat all you want and not feel guilty about it - because it's all done for a good cause. Our friend Kevin stopped by for a few drinks, and we had lots of fun. I know there have been amazing advancements in the treatment of HIV, but hopefully little things like this can lead to the eventual termination of it's existence on the planet! Get out there and dine, Bloggy Friends!! Check the website to see when it's coming to a town near you!

Thanks, Mimi, for the heads up. You made a difference tonight, Gurl! I love you.

Have a great night, Bloggy Friends. Below are a few pictures we took of our evening's festivities!

Love, Josh

More Pics from the Hillary Rally!

Hello.Hey, Bloggy Friends! Here are more pictures from our trip to the rally Monday night. I know there have been a lot of Hillary posts this week, but just bare with me for a minute while I calm down from excitement! Don't miss the video I posted of the evening a few posts down. Have a great night. I love you all!

Josh

New Bloggy Friends!

Hello.Hey, Bloggy Friends! I just had one of the best nights of my life. It's late and I don't have a lot of energy to type now, but I wanted to share some pictures with you - because I'm so excited about it. I was hangin' with the first family! Check back very soon for a video.




Love you all and have a great night!

Josh