AFriendlyFace

WHEW!! That's a relief! I was freaking out myself when I read Viv's post! I haven't worked on mine for 3 weeks or so now , but I hope to get back to it soon. Thanks for the congrats, Viv! I think I'm really going to love my new job! I'll keep you guys posted! I'm glad you got your microphone working and that's great that you don't have to deal with Wendy anymore Yay! that you got your house cleaned up too! Although I'd have let the laundry do itself , GOSH my laundry is REALLY backed up, but I have the perfect excuse, the new hose I need for the washer isn't here yet, so I can't do the laundry. LOLOL and it's given me the perfect excuse to do some serious shopping Anyway take care and have a teriffic day! Kevin

I'm just so unbelievably happy right now! Today was awesome! It was my first day of training at work....oh yeah I was gonna tell you guys about it. Well I know this may sound chronically boring, but I'm going to be an insurance agent. It's definitely not something I saw myself doing, but they got ahold of my resume and called me and invited me to this presentation (followed by an interview), and I really liked it. I thought I'd totally screwed up the interview too. Because...well it's a long story (even by my standards ), but anyway apparently not because later that evening they called and offered me the job. Anyway I think I'm going to like it, the commission is good, the benefits are nice, there's an excellent retirement/investment program (yeah I worry about stuff like that, I've already had an IRA for like 2 years now ), and I only HAVE to go into the office two days a week, the rest of the time I can work from home for the most part. Besides I think it'll be fun meeting new people all the time and getting there "life story" (even if it does focus on health/finance ). So anyway today was my first day of training and it went pretty well, then I had a meeting with the other people on my "team" (LOL I LOVE teams!), and our team manager (who's really nice, he's like a grandpa or something, and I VERY highly regard my grandfather and grandfathers in general so it's quite good if I associate him with one). Plus all the people on my team are pretty darn nifty too! In fact I was coincidentally sitting next to one of them during the class. Yeah the training is like this "class" for three weeks, then you have to pass your licensing exam (which is actually completely seperate from the class, that's not what they teach you, you study that on your own), then you're good to go. So anyway after work I went on this crazy, fun shopping spree . Oh my gosh it was fun! I got like everything. Two ties, three dressy button down shirts, SEVERAL pairs of nice socks, a nice belt and some new pants, all for work. Then for fun I got like 5 or 6 T-shirts, I'm having so much fun with those now! I used to seldom buy T-shirts because they were usually too big (or bigger than I liked) BUT I found the secret....you shop in the little boy's department . LOL it's perfect! I like the way they fit better, they're cheaper, and they're actually cuter too! Like I got this one that says, "Sure to be grounded this time tomorrow" and another fun one that says, "I tried to be good but I got bored" , and anyway I don't feel silly about it, because 1) it's my business anyway and 2 ) I saw these other 3 gay guys doing the same thing . I also got a few "casual" shirts, I looked at jeans but didn't like any of them, I got this other AWESOME belt. It's so cool! LOL and really gay looking (or maybe really punk/emo, but regardless I like the look ), and then I even bought some fancy underwear. So then I had a lovely chat with the lady who was checking me out (ringing up my goods that is, I don't think she was interested in that way :king: ), she was from Los Vegas, and had just found a new job with the Texas school board. In 8 years the value of her home in Los Vegas TRIPLED! Anyway so then on the way out my dad called. So usually talking to my dad makes me nervous and stressed, but this time it was fun! Blah so that's all I'm gonna say about that instead of psychoanalyzing it. Anyway then I went to this yuppie grocery store/market that only sells over-priced organic, high quality foods. It was so much fun! I got a buncha nifty stuff! Including this gorgeous artichoke! some really nice leeks, and corn. A jar of hearts of Palm (MMMMMMmmmm), some pomegranate juice (I'd been wanting to try it for months now!), a fillet of Halibut steak, a New England Lobster cake, a blue crab cake, and a chocolate decadence cake for dessert (I bought some whipped cream too ). Cooking it was so much fun and it all came out really great! Of course I had to have really tiny portions of everything so I could try everything, but that just means I've got several more delicious meals left! My mom, aunt, and two good friends also called today. Those conversations were all really fun too. Plus I had a nice chat with several really awesome people online! (you know who you are ), and I got to watch a little of this gay romantic movie I bought the other day, Latter Days (I watched the whole thing when I first got it, I just watched half of it again while I was eating). It's REALLY good, and it was recommended independently by two really wonderful guys here. LOL I had the pleasure of climbing the gate to get back into my apartment again today (well I could have gone all the way around but climbing the gate is WAY more fun) . Oh and another observation back in Lousiana we always called those big raised things in the middle of the road designed to prevent people from going too quickly "Speed bumps". Here apparently they're called "humps". So you get the interesting frequent occurrence of a sign announcing, "Road Humps" Maybe I'm like 12 but I think that's really funny . Of course I always did wonder where alleys came from. I've also decided I really love being gay (well I decided that along time ago, but I was really thinking about it today)! It's so much fun! I don't see how I could be as happy as a straight guy. LOL, maybe, but I dunno, being gay is pretty neat! I'm so lucky , I mean most people don't get to be gay! And then some people that are don't even enjoy it properly. So I'm going to stop there even though I really wanna tell you guys about some of my new friends, and also that dishwasher story Matt mentioned in the last blog, but I guess it'll have to wait. Have an awesome day everyone and take care! Kevin P.S. so I know this entry is really poorly written, but I don't feel like editing it, so you guys are getting it "raw"

I didn't say, or mean to imply that I didn't like Houston, just that I wouldn't want to be there in the summer time. It's already hot enough here, and the thought of going somewhere hotter and even more humid for the summer doesn't fill me with glee. My visits to Houston have been too brief, I admit. Mercifully they were in the winter, as I hope future visits will be. I spent three summers in Dallas without air conditioning. I wouldn't do that again. OHHHH the heat! LOL well that's not so bad for me. I moved from Lousiana there's very little difference in heat and humidity. In fact the state looks and feels so similar I keep forgetting I'm in Texas now Anyway have an awesome day and take care! Kevin

Actually I can go both ways The person below me wants/needs a haircut

I guess I am still a Newbie in some respects but I'm getting close to celebrating my one year anniversary here. The person below me sings in the shower.

Excellent points Demetz! I really enjoyed this post Have a great day and take care! Kevin

Wow! I loved this chapter , and since I haven't been around to comment on the last few I might do that too lol. I was so excited when Cameron and Cole decided to give it a try! I loved the way it was described with Cole just "feeling something" LOL and Cameron checking to make sure he wasn't hard! I have to say Mr. Harris really ticked me off in the last couple of chapters! I can't believe how dismissive he was toward Cameron's feelings! And especially after what happened with his stepmother's sister! I really wanted to see Cameron tell her off. I was SHOCKED with what happened at the hospital, I was definitely thinking there'd be some sort of reconciliation. I was also really surprised to find out that it was a vase Cameron had been hit with. I assumed his dad had somehow gotten out of bed and hit him, but of course the vase thing makes more sense. Like everyone else I was glad to see that Mr. Harris was finally going to lighten up on Cameron a little. But personally I think I'd still be a little mad and suspicious if I were Cameron. hmm everyone seems to be focusing on this point, but personally I didn't take it at anything more than face value. When I was growing up my mom and especially grandmother would often make remarks like that, similar to "he's such a nice boy etc.". I guess it could mean more than that, but I hadn't thought that until I read people's comments. LOL well they did say they were going to "take it slow" though, but I'm DEFINITELY very eager to read about what does happen!! Anyway I really loved the last few chapters, and I really empathized with all the characters, be it Cameron, his father, his stepmother's family, Cole or Kyle. Awesome job, Vance!!! Have a great day everyone and take care! Kevin

Aww Vance is definitely like the greatest!!!!! His stories are AWESOME! Extremely moving, well-written, and compelling (I could hardly stop reading when I was going through Shane). And then to top it all of he's literally one of the nicest people I've ever had the pleasure of knowing! VANCE ROCKS!!! -Kevin

Happy Birthday Rob!!!!

Hey everyone Thanks for responding to my previous post. first off I completely agree with Kitty's thoughts on the matter, and she did interpret what I meant in the way I meant it. Also, thank you Kitty, for pointing out that the "fundamentalists" are probably the ones more likely to be members of that club. I am guilty of not taking note of the fact that the likely constituency of the club in question ARE more likely to be the sort that do go on about "end times" and do the "fire and brimstone" thing. actually I specifically allowed for both those possibilities. I fully meant that gay people who identify as Christians, or indentify with aspects of Christianity shouldn't be hassled by Christians (Fundamentalist or otherwise). Also: Perhaps I didn't express it properly but what I meant was if he attached no meaning to it (respectful or disrespectful), and simply did like the way it looked I didn't have a problem with it. Actually I don't have a "problem" with it anyway, even if he is being malicious or stereotyping. I don't have to agree with everything in a story to enjoy the story. Even in real life I don't have to completely agree with people's opinions, even on "important" matters, to be friends with them. If I met Connor in real life, and it was clear that he was purposely wearing something considered "sacred" in someone's religion (ANY religion), WITHOUT doing it through actual belief or simply as a fashion accessory, but instead with the intent to tick people off (EVEN people who didn't treat him with respect - two wrongs don't make a right), then I'd probably make it a point to explain my views on the matter (In a manner similar to how I just did). Then I'd just get over it. I'm fairly opinionated and I WILL state my opinion, but once I've made myself understood, I really don't care if I convert other people to my way of thinking or not. (which is the whole reason I'm posting for the 2nd time about this, because I wanted to clear up the fact that I do think it's fine for gay people (or any other group) to wear religious symbols out of sincere belief or simply as a fashion statement). I've been close with all sorts of people of differing degrees of devoutness and/or agression toward various faiths. I don't think I've ever met anyone who's ever shared all my viewpoints on religion. Indeed it would probably be all but impossible since I have a very unique blend of beliefs (but then what fairly intelligent, open-minded, free-thinking person doesn't). I sincerely apologize if it sounded like I was attacking anyone, or operating from a position of "moral certainty". My own beliefs are that pretty much everything is ambiguous and relative; there's rarely, if ever, an absolute "right" or "wrong" and even if there is, IMO, it's a case by case interpretation. Besides, David, you know how highly I regard you and SOOTB . I'm very sorry if I gave any offense. You're the author and you can write the story any darn way you please, and if you say you didn't mean it offensively (and I again I wouldn't care even if you did), then I'll happily accept that and shut up. Anyway take care everyone and have a great day! Kevin

Hey everyone! Awesome chapter I think you're right, Nick, that it isn't so much a matter of jealousy as it is an internal conflict; however, I think what Ryan is dealing with is more along the lines of denial. There is something to worry about. It's important to maintain a positive attitude, but this is life threatening. Ryan's refusing to give it the gravity that it deserves. I personally think this is because he feels like there's nothing he can do. As was so often pointed out by Connor in this chapter, Ryan has always been very protective of Toby. Yet there's no way for him to "protect" Toby against this. Clearly Ryan feels the responsibility to protect Toby, but he can't. So instead he's refusing to acknowledge the seriousness of the situation. If Toby does die **hides behind the hedges to avoid getting stoned** , or just get really near death, I predict a major emotional scene involving Ryan crying and trying to explain his feelings to Connor. *** I thought Connor and Ryan's first time was very well-written, powerful, and...HOT . However, I was troubled by two things, one of which was the condom issue, but Kitty's excellent note at the end resolved that for me. The other issue was actually an on-going concern from the last couple of chapters: why couldn't Ryan have just bottomed? Sure he made the offer after it was all over, and I'm sure he would. But it seems obvious to me that someone who's been raped is probably not the best person to bottom the first few times. It is important that Connor gets over this, and for that reason it may actually be important that he does bottom again, if for nothing more than his psychological health. However, to me it would make more sense if they'd eased into that more with their sexual relationship beginning with Ryan bottoming. After Connor had gotten used to sex as a healthy, positive experience I think the transition would have been easier. But it worked out I suppose, and it was an EXCELLENT scene! *** I was also slightly disapointed with the completely negative attention Christianity recieved in this chapter. Not all Christians are anti-gay, many groups are actually accepting. The entire matter is very debatable and any Christian (or gay activist) who tells you otherwise is unfairly simplifying the issue. Also most Christians I've known aren't especially focused on the "Second Coming"/rapture/apocalypse. The issue has been recieving more attention in recent years due to the Left Behind series, but while that is usually a central part of Christian dogma, it's actually a pretty "hot issue" too, and also very open to interpretation. Furthermore, I thought Connor wearing a gaudy gold crucifix with the main objective being to tick of Christians was just wrong. That's openly mocking someone's faith, and no faith, IMO, deserves to be openly mocked. It would have been an entirely different matter if he identified with some aspects of Christianity and was wearing it as part of his own spirituality (like Cody and his eclectic, yet respectful spiritualism). If that were the case then it would be entirely wrong for the Christians to redicule him on this point, he has the right to express his spirituality in any means he pleases. It would even have been one thing if he'd just wanted to wear it for no motivation other than thinking it was "pretty", but to wear it for the purpose of mockery leaves a nasty taste in my mouth. *** The other thing I wanted to mention (and would have had I been able to comment on the last chapter), is that the phallic shaped cake (which I thought was really amusing and got a huge kick out of) is not a concept completely hitherto undiscussed at Gay Authors. Bits and Pieces , was a blog entry done by reapersharvest on Jan. 6th . It was quite amusing! Anyway I was delighted to see the concept returning . I also don't mean to imply that I don't think it was an original idea; I do. It's such a fun notion that I'm sure lots of people have come up with it independently. *** I also thought that the songs Connor performed at the spring fair were very powerful and moving! I'd never heard "Silent Legacy" before and unfortunately still haven't , but the lyrics were very intense, and "Imagine" has always been on of my favourite songs! I'm sure such a performance could have a very deep, positive effect on people. Anyway I loved this chapter and really enjoyed it. I hope I didn't come off as critical; I didn't mean to be. Quite the opposite I thoroughly enjoy reading stories which present things in ways I wouldn't otherwise have thought about. It's no fun if the story goes exactly as I'd written it/tried to live it. Anyway awesome job, David! I really can't wait to read the next chapter and find out who Toby's doing! Have an awesome day everyone and take care! Kevin

Happy birthday Dr. Mike!! I hope it's a really awesome one! We do miss you Take care and have a teriffic year!!

Hey Nick! I just read the poem; I loved it I really think it should have a wider audience, and that it might help bring solace to other people. It was also very moving from a spiritual point of view! I hope you enjoy your hamburgers/sausage. Personally I'd hope for hamburgers, I don't eat sausage. Anyway take care and have an awesome day! Kevin

Hey Glomph! Thanks! I'm really excited about it. I'll post more of the details in the next entry. I'm just so relieved to have found something and not have to worry anymore. Plus it really does look like it'll be a good job. I hope it lives up to my expectations too, but I'm not going to worry about it. If I hate it (which I'm sure I won't) I'll just look for something else. I'm definitely happy to be here! I'm sorry you didn't like it though . Did you check out the museums? I haven't been since I've actually moved here, but I went last December when I was visiting and looking for a place to stay. They have some really awesome art and sculptures! It seems like everyone's really friendly and helpful too (at least so far) Anyway take care and have an awesome day! Kevin

Woo Hoo, Matt! I knew I could wear down your resistance. LOL, this only proves that I'm right, about everything! Yep, that's right, now you're stuck living happily ever after with a big silly grin on your face. (Like these) And the dishwasher story was definitely among the highlights, I just forgot while I was writing the entry. LOL I'll put it in the next Take care and have a great day!! Kevin

Yay! I'm so glad you're doing well, Nick . LOL, and I'm sure everyone's HAPPY that you're around and fine, and I bet you couldn't REALLY bug them if ya tried Take care and have a great day! Kevin

Vic VIC!!! I'm shocked and appalled that you would take a perfectly innocent comment and turn it into something dirty. I'm even more shocked that I didn't even notice it. Well I'm just happy to be back with you guys and once again offer a big one in the afternoon from time to time

LOL and I had so much fun being 22 I was thinking I might just do it again this year

Hey Anthony! awww that's so sweet of you to say, thanks! LOL no one's going to have to beg for sure hehhe Thanks! And don't worry my lips are sealed! Guess what!? I got a job! I was so shocked! I had this interview today, and personally I thought it went really lousy, but then the guy called me back that evening and told me I had it! My first actual day should be Tuesday (which hopefully gives me enough time to finish the unpacking), but I have to go drop off some paperwork and fill out some forms tomorrow. I'm just so stunned! I really didn't see me getting this one, and I really wanted it too! Anyway thanks so much for the kind reception, Anthony, I really appreciate it, and may I once again wish you a quick and speedy recovery with your ankle! Take care and have an awesome day! Kevin

Hey BURU! Yep, it's a really fun place; I bet you'd love it here! I sure am so far It's definitely hard to tell people's ages! I never guess correctly lol. Anyway thanks for the welcome back! Take care and have a really great day! Kevin

Happy Birthday Nate!! (look I made it with 3 min. to spare!) Have an awesome year! Kevin

I just wanted to wish a VERY Happy Birthday and an awesome year to one of the most teriffic people ever, and a very dear friend! Happy Birthday Matt!!!!!!!

Hiya Colin! Thanks for the welcome back! Take care and have a teriffic week! Kevin

Aww thanks Nick! I missed you too! Take care and have a great day!! Kevin

Hey Kitty! LOLOL I used to use "time" alot on my screen names, and I was occasionally referred to as "Father Time" lol LOL wellllll Actually it took me three edits to get down my number to a "legal" amount LOL, you know I've always wanted to work at a bookstore! It was always something I could imagine myself doing during college or something. But now I guess I'll never get too , lol unless it happens somehow during grad. school or something. You know there's ALOT of nifty bookstores around here too! This is the first time I've ever seen "Borders" for example, and there's a whole bunch of smaller ones that specialize in whatever, I can't wait to check them all out! Thanks, and I hope everything is going well for you in Dallas too. Let us know how everything goes Ohhhh and guess what? I'm DEFINTELY writting an entry for the Summer Anthology, I'd already kinda started before I moved, but now I haven't worked on it for several weeks. I'm kinda excited about it though, and I have the structure all mapped out for the most part Anyway take care and have an awesome day! Kevin