Well, Christmas is officially over. I had a great time. Since high school, I have always held jobs requiring me to work the day before and after holidays. It was great to have a few days, especially since my entire family was congregating in Winters, TX (Home of the Blizzards, I kid you not)
My mother, her brother and sister were together for the first time in over 10 years, and it showed. They were happy and laughing most of the time. Being the only grandson and first born, I was basking in the glow of my grandmother's praise. So I was all good.
One thing about my family is how passive aggressive we all are. Every story, every accomplishment is always met with something better, all said with a smile. It is the weirdest situation, everyone is smiling, but you can almost tase the jealousy in the air.
Also, spouses never quite measure up. My grandmother is a hybrid of Doris Roberts a la Everybody Loves Raymond (with myself as Ray) and Shirley MacLaine in Postcards from the Edge. It makes for interesting times. When I wasn't playing with my niece and nephew, I was huddled with my sister, poking fun at everyone else and trying not to laugh during meals.
My grandmother means more to any of us than she will ever know, but she's way too sensetive to be teased, so we wait until she goes to bed and then it's a free for all with the Grandmother Impersonations. It doesn't translate to print, nor would anyone get the key phrases, so I will spare you. Needless to say it is a riot.
Tuesday, December 27, 2005
Thursday, December 22, 2005
Happy Holidays
Before The Mitchum Sinclair Show goes on Christmas hiatus, I thought I would share a bit from the office Christmas party.
I love my coworkers, but we have a hard time committing to social events. Back in September we all talked about how great the office Halloween party was going to be and convinced Ryan to thow it at his house. Ryan went out of his way to decorate and supply the food and drink for the party.
The big night came and 5 of us showed up. Some of us were taken up by illness, some by emergency, but it was still upsetting.
This time around, Sylvia decided to throw a party at the very last minute. I mean, we got invited on Monday for a Wednesday night get together. This one went off great. Lots of people, food, and drink. I loved the frozen cosmos. I also cooked my mother's chicken enchilada casserole. Everyone brought something and it was all good.
We gathered around and played games fueled by the above mentioned cosmos, margaritas, wine and for some, tequila shots.
The best part was the White Elephant exchange, as we were told to bring the most horrible promotional item we were handed by a vendor. The winner was a roll of toilet paper covered with a glossy book cover. Really, what does that say about the hopes for your book?
Happy Holidays!
I love my coworkers, but we have a hard time committing to social events. Back in September we all talked about how great the office Halloween party was going to be and convinced Ryan to thow it at his house. Ryan went out of his way to decorate and supply the food and drink for the party.
The big night came and 5 of us showed up. Some of us were taken up by illness, some by emergency, but it was still upsetting.
This time around, Sylvia decided to throw a party at the very last minute. I mean, we got invited on Monday for a Wednesday night get together. This one went off great. Lots of people, food, and drink. I loved the frozen cosmos. I also cooked my mother's chicken enchilada casserole. Everyone brought something and it was all good.
We gathered around and played games fueled by the above mentioned cosmos, margaritas, wine and for some, tequila shots.
The best part was the White Elephant exchange, as we were told to bring the most horrible promotional item we were handed by a vendor. The winner was a roll of toilet paper covered with a glossy book cover. Really, what does that say about the hopes for your book?
Happy Holidays!
Tuesday, December 20, 2005
Sunday, December 18, 2005
John Spencer 1946-2005
John Spencer, who portrayed Leo McGarry on 'The West Wing' passed away early Saturday morning of a heart attack.
I could get on my high horse and talk about how great the West Wing is again and how sorely he will be missed, but other people have already done that, more eloquently than I could.
My heart goes out to Mr. Spencer's family and to the cast of the show. According to West Wing lore, they were all very close, even when not filming. I cannot express my condolances enough.
Leo and John were both incredible people who will be missed...
I could get on my high horse and talk about how great the West Wing is again and how sorely he will be missed, but other people have already done that, more eloquently than I could.
My heart goes out to Mr. Spencer's family and to the cast of the show. According to West Wing lore, they were all very close, even when not filming. I cannot express my condolances enough.
Leo and John were both incredible people who will be missed...
Thursday, December 15, 2005
A Very Gay Day
Just when I thought I couldn't get any gayer...
One of my publishers sent me the nicest Christmas Gift Ever: Hardback copies of all 13 L. Frank Baum Oz books.
A very nice girl in on the Video Team is sending me The Judy Garland Show boxed set, with every episode of the show.
It's The Most Wonderful Time To Be Queer!!!!
One of my publishers sent me the nicest Christmas Gift Ever: Hardback copies of all 13 L. Frank Baum Oz books.
A very nice girl in on the Video Team is sending me The Judy Garland Show boxed set, with every episode of the show.
It's The Most Wonderful Time To Be Queer!!!!
Wednesday, December 07, 2005
Two posts in one day???!!!
I am sure Hell is freezing over. (Actually it is, it only got to 22 here today)
I have been home sick for the past two days, and I am getting cabin fever. But worse, I cannot get to sleep at a decent hour. I had decided to go back into the office tomorrow, so of course, I am sitting here wide awake at 2 am.
Why do these things happen?
This being sick has really put a damper on my Holiday Spirit.
(Yes, I said HOLIDAY. That is an inclusive word used to celebrate all winter holidays regardless of faith or lack thereof. Get over it Focus on the Family.)
I have been home sick for the past two days, and I am getting cabin fever. But worse, I cannot get to sleep at a decent hour. I had decided to go back into the office tomorrow, so of course, I am sitting here wide awake at 2 am.
Why do these things happen?
This being sick has really put a damper on my Holiday Spirit.
(Yes, I said HOLIDAY. That is an inclusive word used to celebrate all winter holidays regardless of faith or lack thereof. Get over it Focus on the Family.)
Dysfuctional Family Films
With the Holidays upon us, there are countless movies everyone curls up to see.
My favorite is always The Lion in Winter.
It does take place over a Christmas holiday in 1183, with King Henry II, his estranged and imprisoned wife Eleanor, and their 3 sons, as they scheme and plot over Henry's successor. This is dysfunction at it's finest. It always makes me feel much better about my family.
Katherine Hepburn turns in one of her finest performances, and ties with Barbra for the Oscar. This was filmed right after the death of Spencer Tracy, and you can see it in every scene she is in, which magnifies Eleanor in ways unimaginable.
One of the best scenes in the film is when Eleanor sends Richard to negotiate with Phillip of France (A young and hot Timothy Dalton in his film debut). As the scene unravels, you find out of the love affair between the two. Richard (Anthony Hopkins) is still very much in love with Phillip, and you can see the pain in his face as he discloses this, all while his brothers are hiding behind curtains. Henry barges in and Phillip uses Richard and his love against the King. It is heartbreaking.
This was remade in 2003 for Showtime with Patrick Stewart and Glenn Close But No Cigar. I refuse to watch it.
Incidentally, Katherine Hepburn was descended from Eleanor of Aquitaine on both sides...
My favorite is always The Lion in Winter.
It does take place over a Christmas holiday in 1183, with King Henry II, his estranged and imprisoned wife Eleanor, and their 3 sons, as they scheme and plot over Henry's successor. This is dysfunction at it's finest. It always makes me feel much better about my family.
Katherine Hepburn turns in one of her finest performances, and ties with Barbra for the Oscar. This was filmed right after the death of Spencer Tracy, and you can see it in every scene she is in, which magnifies Eleanor in ways unimaginable.
One of the best scenes in the film is when Eleanor sends Richard to negotiate with Phillip of France (A young and hot Timothy Dalton in his film debut). As the scene unravels, you find out of the love affair between the two. Richard (Anthony Hopkins) is still very much in love with Phillip, and you can see the pain in his face as he discloses this, all while his brothers are hiding behind curtains. Henry barges in and Phillip uses Richard and his love against the King. It is heartbreaking.
This was remade in 2003 for Showtime with Patrick Stewart and Glenn Close But No Cigar. I refuse to watch it.
Incidentally, Katherine Hepburn was descended from Eleanor of Aquitaine on both sides...
Monday, November 28, 2005
Upson Downs
I have been so lax in writing lately, not just here, but my book reviews as well, just as my reviews have been picked up by Amarillo Style. Not to make excuses, but it's a trueism that when you start having to write (or read, or whatever you do for pleasure) for work, it becomes harder to do. I have a stack of books to review, and the stack keeps growing. I stare at them, but make feeble excuses why I can't write today.
So now I have subjected myself to 6 episodes of Sex and the City, made myself a Cosmo and put on my favorite Christmas CD and I am now sitting down to write.
I have challenged myself to knock out three reviews tonight. But first I figured I needed to blog, just to keep everyone updated (and to get my chops back in shape).
Speaking of in shape, I now have the ultimate motivation for getting to the gym. When I interviewed for this job, Tom and I went shopping for a new outfit for my interview. I got a new pair of slacks, and so did Tom. After 6 months at a desk job, I can't wear my slacks on account of the growing bulge around my waist. Last time I went home, Tom could not put his slacks on because HE LOST TOO MUCH WEIGHT.
Bitch.
On a lighter note, my last couple of Publisher Meetings have been incredible. I met with the men who produce and distribute Colt Magazine. WOW. I got lots of goodies, and they were the NICEST guys ever.
I also met with DC Comics. Many of you know how much I adore a certain amazon with incredible accessories. I really fo adore my job, which I have to remind myself sometimes, cause it's very lonely without Tom here.
So now I have subjected myself to 6 episodes of Sex and the City, made myself a Cosmo and put on my favorite Christmas CD and I am now sitting down to write.
I have challenged myself to knock out three reviews tonight. But first I figured I needed to blog, just to keep everyone updated (and to get my chops back in shape).
Speaking of in shape, I now have the ultimate motivation for getting to the gym. When I interviewed for this job, Tom and I went shopping for a new outfit for my interview. I got a new pair of slacks, and so did Tom. After 6 months at a desk job, I can't wear my slacks on account of the growing bulge around my waist. Last time I went home, Tom could not put his slacks on because HE LOST TOO MUCH WEIGHT.
Bitch.
On a lighter note, my last couple of Publisher Meetings have been incredible. I met with the men who produce and distribute Colt Magazine. WOW. I got lots of goodies, and they were the NICEST guys ever.
I also met with DC Comics. Many of you know how much I adore a certain amazon with incredible accessories. I really fo adore my job, which I have to remind myself sometimes, cause it's very lonely without Tom here.
Thursday, November 17, 2005
Time goes by so slowly...
I cannot decide which is worse, not being able to go to sleep, or waking up 2 hours before you need to and not going to sleep.
I woke up at 4am, and have not been able to get back to sleep at all. So I figured this is the best time to write. Hey, if Stevie can write hit songs in the dead of night...
Winter is here in the plains of Amarillo. It was in the 30's all day yesterday. I don't think I am going to be able to handle this cold weather. In Odessa, we had maybe a week of freezing temperatures in February. If it is already this cold in November, I am going to be one unhappy camper over the next few months. That is one thing about the desert southwest, mild temps all year.
Tom had a minor outpatient procedure a couple of weeks ago, and I went home to help care for him. It was not a big deal, but it was unexpected and he did need a few days to recuperate. The really bad part is that it came 2 days before we were to leave for Hawaii. We had to postpone the vacation until after the first of the year. At least we didn't have to cancel.
My first book review was published in the Amarillo Style magazine. It was a full page, all glossy and everything. It made my day.
Madonna's new cd is incredible. I really like it when she gets into dance music.
I woke up at 4am, and have not been able to get back to sleep at all. So I figured this is the best time to write. Hey, if Stevie can write hit songs in the dead of night...
Winter is here in the plains of Amarillo. It was in the 30's all day yesterday. I don't think I am going to be able to handle this cold weather. In Odessa, we had maybe a week of freezing temperatures in February. If it is already this cold in November, I am going to be one unhappy camper over the next few months. That is one thing about the desert southwest, mild temps all year.
Tom had a minor outpatient procedure a couple of weeks ago, and I went home to help care for him. It was not a big deal, but it was unexpected and he did need a few days to recuperate. The really bad part is that it came 2 days before we were to leave for Hawaii. We had to postpone the vacation until after the first of the year. At least we didn't have to cancel.
My first book review was published in the Amarillo Style magazine. It was a full page, all glossy and everything. It made my day.
Madonna's new cd is incredible. I really like it when she gets into dance music.
Friday, October 28, 2005
Office Drama
As I was working this morning, one of my fellow buyers passed along a book to me. Her face was puffy and red as if she had been crying.
'Read This,' she says,'It will only take 10 minutes.'
I looked at the book. It was a small red hardcover titled 'Mostly Bob,' by Tom Corwin.
I did read it, I did cry, I passed it along.
Everyone in the office read it, we all cried or teared up. This was one of the most moving love stories I have ever read. I am ready to scream unto the world about this book, but it will not be released until February. Mark you calenders and remember I said this, because it will be the sleeper hit of the Spring. Already the advanced copy has quotes from Morley Safer, Bonnie Raitt, Richard Pryor and his wife, and Joanne Woodward.
It is great to find a book like that, and be able to affect what happens to it. I want to say more, but that would ruin the incredible story for the rest of you.
Be on the lookout, you won't regret it...
'Read This,' she says,'It will only take 10 minutes.'
I looked at the book. It was a small red hardcover titled 'Mostly Bob,' by Tom Corwin.
I did read it, I did cry, I passed it along.
Everyone in the office read it, we all cried or teared up. This was one of the most moving love stories I have ever read. I am ready to scream unto the world about this book, but it will not be released until February. Mark you calenders and remember I said this, because it will be the sleeper hit of the Spring. Already the advanced copy has quotes from Morley Safer, Bonnie Raitt, Richard Pryor and his wife, and Joanne Woodward.
It is great to find a book like that, and be able to affect what happens to it. I want to say more, but that would ruin the incredible story for the rest of you.
Be on the lookout, you won't regret it...
Wednesday, October 26, 2005
Classic Dames
Which Classic Dame Are You?
I took this quiz, full of confidence that I would be Bette Davis. I am a huse fan and patterned a lot of my young gay life after her.
Imagine my surprise when I turned out to be Barbara Stanwyck. I am not upset at all, but rather intrigued. It always nice to get an outside perspective of youself, from your friends, family or even the occassional internet quiz.
Not that I am planning to get Fred MacMurray to knock of Tom...
I took this quiz, full of confidence that I would be Bette Davis. I am a huse fan and patterned a lot of my young gay life after her.
Imagine my surprise when I turned out to be Barbara Stanwyck. I am not upset at all, but rather intrigued. It always nice to get an outside perspective of youself, from your friends, family or even the occassional internet quiz.
Not that I am planning to get Fred MacMurray to knock of Tom...
Wednesday, October 19, 2005
Category Five
We've had a little bit of a casting shuffle at the office these last weeks. We lost one and gained two. In the transition, several duties and responsibilities were reassigned. I am happy to say that I made out like a bandit. I am now involved in the buying of Gay/Lesbian books for the entire chain, as well as the National and Regional Author Events coordinator. Yeah for me.
Yesterday, as Wilma tuned into a hurricane, was my first chaperone for an event. I accompanied two NYT bestselling authors to an event right by my apartment. Both authors were so gracious and fun to be around, they immediately put everyone at ease. Too at ease it seems.
The book manager and I were having a private conversation over the turnout vs. sales. The turnout was incredible. However, because of the number of people who had bought copies of the book already, or were bringing in backlist to get signed, sales were sluggish. The book manager told me she had a bet going with her boss: If she sold x number of copies, he would buy her soft drinks for a year. (I won't even tell you the number, because it was so embarrassingly small) We had a laugh and I thought that was it.
She mentioned the bet to the authors.
That was about the time Wilma was upgraded to a Category Three.
I am all for fun at work, and I am all for friendly competition, but that was just unprofessional. The authors did not take any offense, but I was mortified. At the end of the night, we tallied the sales, and Book Manager was 2 copies away from her 'goal' of free cokes. The authors BOUGHT TWO COPIES OF THEIR OWN BOOK so she could win.
Wilma skipped right past four and went to five.
I was humiliated and no amount of talking could get them to reconsider. They were gracious and didn't think anything of it.
By the time I got to the office this morning, I was furious. I had to give a report to my boss on how things went and when he heard, he went ballistic. So now I had to go back to the store and give a lecture on professional behavior, and move that store down on the list of stores to get signings.
I hate having to be the bad guy, especially when the mistake was unintentional. But if this had been another author of John Grisham popularity, it could jeopardize signings for the whole chain and make my job a living nightmare...
Yesterday, as Wilma tuned into a hurricane, was my first chaperone for an event. I accompanied two NYT bestselling authors to an event right by my apartment. Both authors were so gracious and fun to be around, they immediately put everyone at ease. Too at ease it seems.
The book manager and I were having a private conversation over the turnout vs. sales. The turnout was incredible. However, because of the number of people who had bought copies of the book already, or were bringing in backlist to get signed, sales were sluggish. The book manager told me she had a bet going with her boss: If she sold x number of copies, he would buy her soft drinks for a year. (I won't even tell you the number, because it was so embarrassingly small) We had a laugh and I thought that was it.
She mentioned the bet to the authors.
That was about the time Wilma was upgraded to a Category Three.
I am all for fun at work, and I am all for friendly competition, but that was just unprofessional. The authors did not take any offense, but I was mortified. At the end of the night, we tallied the sales, and Book Manager was 2 copies away from her 'goal' of free cokes. The authors BOUGHT TWO COPIES OF THEIR OWN BOOK so she could win.
Wilma skipped right past four and went to five.
I was humiliated and no amount of talking could get them to reconsider. They were gracious and didn't think anything of it.
By the time I got to the office this morning, I was furious. I had to give a report to my boss on how things went and when he heard, he went ballistic. So now I had to go back to the store and give a lecture on professional behavior, and move that store down on the list of stores to get signings.
I hate having to be the bad guy, especially when the mistake was unintentional. But if this had been another author of John Grisham popularity, it could jeopardize signings for the whole chain and make my job a living nightmare...
Monday, September 26, 2005
My Milkshake brings all the boys to the yard...
Happy coincidences will bring the coolest shit your way.
I was at my friend Brent's house Saturday night, and he played me a bit of a show he had TiVo'd a week ago, wanting to know what I thought of a specific musical number. All of the show was incredible, and what was killed me is that it aired on Bravo and I had never seen it.
It was The Dan Band: I am Woman. This is a concert by Dan Finnerty and two male backup singers. They sing nothing but songs by strong women, changing none of the pronouns. This guy is so totally straight, it works. It is very funny, as they do crazy choreography and medleys no one would ever think of.
Sunday, I went out and found the live cd.
It opens with 'Free Your Mind/I Am Woman', and you know you are in for a ride. He does not really play for laughs, which makes it funny, but also underlines the fact he is paying tribute to women.
The journey goes into an ABBA medley, a Christina/Britney/TLC medley, and on and on. You find yourself wanting to dance and sing along. He has fun up on the stage, and it translates well to the songs and performance.
Midway through the show, he begins 'Call Tyrone' which is funny, but it segues into 'No More Drama' which gets powerful and serious. If he did it on accident, it was incredible, if he did it on purpose, it was brilliant. The man has a set of pipes on him. It is what makes him more than a novelty act.
I took the cd into the office today to show Brent. By the end of the day, everyone wanted to borrow it and it was all anyone could talk about. That in itself says alot.
Check him out!
The Dan Band
I was at my friend Brent's house Saturday night, and he played me a bit of a show he had TiVo'd a week ago, wanting to know what I thought of a specific musical number. All of the show was incredible, and what was killed me is that it aired on Bravo and I had never seen it.
It was The Dan Band: I am Woman. This is a concert by Dan Finnerty and two male backup singers. They sing nothing but songs by strong women, changing none of the pronouns. This guy is so totally straight, it works. It is very funny, as they do crazy choreography and medleys no one would ever think of.
Sunday, I went out and found the live cd.
It opens with 'Free Your Mind/I Am Woman', and you know you are in for a ride. He does not really play for laughs, which makes it funny, but also underlines the fact he is paying tribute to women.
The journey goes into an ABBA medley, a Christina/Britney/TLC medley, and on and on. You find yourself wanting to dance and sing along. He has fun up on the stage, and it translates well to the songs and performance.
Midway through the show, he begins 'Call Tyrone' which is funny, but it segues into 'No More Drama' which gets powerful and serious. If he did it on accident, it was incredible, if he did it on purpose, it was brilliant. The man has a set of pipes on him. It is what makes him more than a novelty act.
I took the cd into the office today to show Brent. By the end of the day, everyone wanted to borrow it and it was all anyone could talk about. That in itself says alot.
Check him out!
The Dan Band
Saturday, September 24, 2005
Blue Writing, Part II
It's no Big secret that I am a fan of Sex and the City, or that Carrie Bradshaw is a role model of mine. I am not vain enough to think that I am like her, but the arcs of some of the stories do parallel some of my life. I am sure I am not the only one. But when you identify so closely with what is going on, it is kind of spooky and reassuring at the same time.
One nice thing is that Carrie can usually pull me out of a writing funk. I can watch an episode and it will send me right to my laptop. I just finished watching Episode 5 of the 5th season where Carrie has the launch party for her book. At the very end, she gets into her limo, and the driver is so excited about Carrie's book that it reminds Carrie that getting a book published is no small feat.
I guess I needed that to remind me of what I have accomplished in the last year. I have a book review column that is published in my hometown newspaper, and I get to travel around and meet up and coming authors, as well as people already respected in the literary field. Everyone has bad days at work, you just have to make sure you use the memory of how good the good days are to reinvigorate yourself.
I love my job, I really do. I think it's just harder because I am alone here and don't get to really share it with Tom, yet. I am so ready for him to be here, and there are days I think it is never gonna happen.
Funny, just the other day I was commenting on how I don't write when I am in a funk, but there was Carrie, ready to drag the words out of me...
One nice thing is that Carrie can usually pull me out of a writing funk. I can watch an episode and it will send me right to my laptop. I just finished watching Episode 5 of the 5th season where Carrie has the launch party for her book. At the very end, she gets into her limo, and the driver is so excited about Carrie's book that it reminds Carrie that getting a book published is no small feat.
I guess I needed that to remind me of what I have accomplished in the last year. I have a book review column that is published in my hometown newspaper, and I get to travel around and meet up and coming authors, as well as people already respected in the literary field. Everyone has bad days at work, you just have to make sure you use the memory of how good the good days are to reinvigorate yourself.
I love my job, I really do. I think it's just harder because I am alone here and don't get to really share it with Tom, yet. I am so ready for him to be here, and there are days I think it is never gonna happen.
Funny, just the other day I was commenting on how I don't write when I am in a funk, but there was Carrie, ready to drag the words out of me...
Friday, September 23, 2005
Writing the blues
Most great writers and songwriters turn to writing as a source of comfort when they are sad or going through great tragedy. It's how so much of our great art has been created.
I, on the other hand, never feel the urge to write when I am down or upset.
That, my dears, is why you have not seen a post in two weeks.
I am doing well, I just have so much going on, I get stressed and don't want to do anything, least of all write.
Today, I am forcing myself to in the hopes it will bring me some comfort and distraction from everything else.
And with that sentence, I have no where else to go. Everytime I hit a period, I stop and stare at the screen, not knowing what to write next.
I guess I could talk a bit about the Rita, since I am in Texas. Houston is so far away, I might as well be in another state. Not that it doesn't affect me, it does. I just don't see the immediate effects like people in South Texas are right now.
That was quick. Now I am stumped again.
We'll try again later.
(Obviously, the won't be on one of those retrospective clip episodes)
I, on the other hand, never feel the urge to write when I am down or upset.
That, my dears, is why you have not seen a post in two weeks.
I am doing well, I just have so much going on, I get stressed and don't want to do anything, least of all write.
Today, I am forcing myself to in the hopes it will bring me some comfort and distraction from everything else.
And with that sentence, I have no where else to go. Everytime I hit a period, I stop and stare at the screen, not knowing what to write next.
I guess I could talk a bit about the Rita, since I am in Texas. Houston is so far away, I might as well be in another state. Not that it doesn't affect me, it does. I just don't see the immediate effects like people in South Texas are right now.
That was quick. Now I am stumped again.
We'll try again later.
(Obviously, the won't be on one of those retrospective clip episodes)
Sunday, September 11, 2005
Things that happen to you in Portland
I must tell you about the author dinner. It was great fun. It was like speed dating for the literary set. Each author would stop by your table for 20 minutes, then a bell would ring and you would get another author. Some of the authors were not that impressive, but we did meet HW Brands, author of Lone Star Nation, and the very handsome and affable Michael Collins. He's Irish, and has the sexiest voice. Got my picture with him and got his email, under the guise of getting him booked for a tour (which of course I would love to do, so I could be his chaperone).
Cody and I went for drinks after the dinner, and found this really cool place, that was comfortable for both of us. Club Aura had a velvet rope and a guy with a clipboard, so I knew this was a place I would love, it also had very pretty women, so Cody was happy also. Very modern and chic. They also make great cosmos. I was soo pretentious, but I was an out of towner, so it's allowed.
I have begun to notice a few things about the Northwest. Once you are here a few days, rules and observations make themselves known:
1. You listen exclusively to Alternative music, and you like it. Portland has a great alternative station we listen to in the car. I have not listened to Stevie or a cast album since I got here. (although I did buy two vinyl Nicks' albums at a record store)
2. You begin to realize how detrimental Metrosexuality is. Everyone in Portland looks gay. If you cruise a guy, his girlfriend is likely to throw daggers your way. Lesbians are another story. Although short hair seems to be the norm, they are way prettier than the cowgirls we have in Texas.
3. They are very fond of the one way street and the buses only, no turns of any kind on any major road. It makes navigation tough. I let Cody do most of the driving for this reason.
The greatest thing happened at the end of the day yesterday. The Lion King opened Friday for a two month engagement. Last night I decided to try and go. I didn't have my heart set on it, so if I couldn't get a good ticket, I would just go to dinner. I drove down to the venue with 15 minutes to spare and ended up dead center 4th row.
It was incredible. I know many theatre snobs tend to dis the presence of Disney on the Great White Way, but the staging was so imaginative. I cried like a little girl during Circle of Life.
This is it from Portland, I have a plane to catch. See you again from the Lone Star State!
Cody and I went for drinks after the dinner, and found this really cool place, that was comfortable for both of us. Club Aura had a velvet rope and a guy with a clipboard, so I knew this was a place I would love, it also had very pretty women, so Cody was happy also. Very modern and chic. They also make great cosmos. I was soo pretentious, but I was an out of towner, so it's allowed.
I have begun to notice a few things about the Northwest. Once you are here a few days, rules and observations make themselves known:
1. You listen exclusively to Alternative music, and you like it. Portland has a great alternative station we listen to in the car. I have not listened to Stevie or a cast album since I got here. (although I did buy two vinyl Nicks' albums at a record store)
2. You begin to realize how detrimental Metrosexuality is. Everyone in Portland looks gay. If you cruise a guy, his girlfriend is likely to throw daggers your way. Lesbians are another story. Although short hair seems to be the norm, they are way prettier than the cowgirls we have in Texas.
3. They are very fond of the one way street and the buses only, no turns of any kind on any major road. It makes navigation tough. I let Cody do most of the driving for this reason.
The greatest thing happened at the end of the day yesterday. The Lion King opened Friday for a two month engagement. Last night I decided to try and go. I didn't have my heart set on it, so if I couldn't get a good ticket, I would just go to dinner. I drove down to the venue with 15 minutes to spare and ended up dead center 4th row.
It was incredible. I know many theatre snobs tend to dis the presence of Disney on the Great White Way, but the staging was so imaginative. I cried like a little girl during Circle of Life.
This is it from Portland, I have a plane to catch. See you again from the Lone Star State!
Friday, September 09, 2005
Are you hip enough?
Well, we are in the middle of the day here, and I thought I would catch you up on my morning. The show went well. We made contact with many publishers. Most of them were eager to get our business. Everyone was giving away lots of books. I kept filling bag after bag, until it hit me that I would have to get them home somehow. I decided to ship them to myself or buy another suitcase, and kept grabbing the freebies. As we walked the floor, I kept noticing this very handsome, shaggy haired boy, who looked so out of place amongst us bibliophiles. About an hour later, Cody looked at me and asked if I wanted his book, I looked around, and there was Mr. Shaggy, signing books at the author table. Not wanting to run into the cellophane syndrome again, I sent Cody to talk to a publisher while I stood in line.
With his window cleaner blue eyes, he asked a few innocuous questions as he signed my book. I shrewdly gave his publicist my card and explained that I could get him booked on a tour through our Northwest stores. He smiled and I walked away.
Back to grabbing freebies, I met a publisher specializing in books on classic cinema and gay issues. I swear he was Bruce Vilanch's brother. I talked to him a bit and he offered just one of his multiple titles to me, until the conversation got around to the fact that I bought for 152 stores. I now have his entire library of titles. He also asked me to dinner. These are the guys I attract.
Breaking for lunch, Cody and I went to Doug Fir's. If you are ever in the Portland area, go. It is incredibly hip and oh so gay. The style is very retro and the waiters are fabulous.
I have a few hours to rest before the author dinner tonight. More to come...
With his window cleaner blue eyes, he asked a few innocuous questions as he signed my book. I shrewdly gave his publicist my card and explained that I could get him booked on a tour through our Northwest stores. He smiled and I walked away.
Back to grabbing freebies, I met a publisher specializing in books on classic cinema and gay issues. I swear he was Bruce Vilanch's brother. I talked to him a bit and he offered just one of his multiple titles to me, until the conversation got around to the fact that I bought for 152 stores. I now have his entire library of titles. He also asked me to dinner. These are the guys I attract.
Breaking for lunch, Cody and I went to Doug Fir's. If you are ever in the Portland area, go. It is incredibly hip and oh so gay. The style is very retro and the waiters are fabulous.
I have a few hours to rest before the author dinner tonight. More to come...
Mr. Cellophane
Greetings one and all. I write to you today from Portland, OR, where TMSS is on location for the Pacific Northwest Bookseller Association trade show!
I am joined this weekend by my fellow Book Buyer Cody. Cody is a great guy who has been helping me chart the waters of Regional Books. It does help that he is nice looking in addition to his natural ability to put people at ease. He has been married for 2 or 3 years, I think.
Unfortunately, we discovered a downside to traveling together. On the flight from Amarillo to Las Vegas, we had two (That's TWO) pretty hispanic gay flight attendants. They were so busy cruising Cody, I couldn't get the time of day. So, poor Cody gets tagged for a 'mo and I get ignored. It could be a long weekend.
After getting to Portland, we drove around and found our convention center, which was a minor miracle considering the map that was provided to us.
Today is an incredibly busy day for us. We have to hit every University Press we can, and there are many. Cody will be leaving tomorrow morning, so we have to get all the work done today, but that should leave me Saturday to explore the city.
More from Portland later...
I am joined this weekend by my fellow Book Buyer Cody. Cody is a great guy who has been helping me chart the waters of Regional Books. It does help that he is nice looking in addition to his natural ability to put people at ease. He has been married for 2 or 3 years, I think.
Unfortunately, we discovered a downside to traveling together. On the flight from Amarillo to Las Vegas, we had two (That's TWO) pretty hispanic gay flight attendants. They were so busy cruising Cody, I couldn't get the time of day. So, poor Cody gets tagged for a 'mo and I get ignored. It could be a long weekend.
After getting to Portland, we drove around and found our convention center, which was a minor miracle considering the map that was provided to us.
Today is an incredibly busy day for us. We have to hit every University Press we can, and there are many. Cody will be leaving tomorrow morning, so we have to get all the work done today, but that should leave me Saturday to explore the city.
More from Portland later...
Tuesday, September 06, 2005
Banned Books
Having been in the book business for longer than I care to admit, I am very passionate about bringing awareness to the plight of the banned book. The last week in September, the American Library Association and the American Bookseller Association both participate in Banned Books Week. Libraries and bookstores are encouraged to set up displays, hold lectures and generally inform the reading public of the threat of censorship. This has become even more important in the wake of the PATRIOT act, as the government can now search library and bookstore records without informing potential suspects and librarians and booksellers are forbidden to divulge that they have been searched.
When I was in the bookstore, I faithfully set up a display every year, and also participated in a discussion group at the county library. The display was a hit. Many books would sell off of it, and it always garnered media attention. When I got to home office, I decided to see if we couldn't go chainwide with the display. We have, and have received nothing but good feedback from the field.
What surprises me is that when I talk to the average person, they have no idea that a) Books are still being banned and b) There is a week dedicated to it. This is frightening when the ALA releases a report that more books have been challenged or banned this year than last year. MORE, not less. In this era of panic and fright, literature, the cornerstone of knowledge and communication, is being removed from schools and libraries across the nation...
When I was in the bookstore, I faithfully set up a display every year, and also participated in a discussion group at the county library. The display was a hit. Many books would sell off of it, and it always garnered media attention. When I got to home office, I decided to see if we couldn't go chainwide with the display. We have, and have received nothing but good feedback from the field.
What surprises me is that when I talk to the average person, they have no idea that a) Books are still being banned and b) There is a week dedicated to it. This is frightening when the ALA releases a report that more books have been challenged or banned this year than last year. MORE, not less. In this era of panic and fright, literature, the cornerstone of knowledge and communication, is being removed from schools and libraries across the nation...
Thursday, September 01, 2005
Lost innocence
I got home today to a lot of laundry sitting on the sofa, dishes in the sink, and general unruliness in my apartment. Not having any pressing engagements, I put on Madonna's Drowned World DVD and began to clean.
The background music was very helpful and I got a lot accomplised in a very short time. When I sat down, I remembered the last time I had seen it.
HBO had aired it in it's entirity live. I had decided to make an evening out of it. I called up Keith and David, and Karen and Nicole. We made appitizers and sat around reveling in the majesty and genius of Madonna. I was disappointed that her Evita number was reduced to an instrumental of 'Argentina,' but it was an incredible night: Good Food, Good Friends, Good Entertainment.
It was the last week of August 2001. It seems like a different world, and it was. There were no color coded alerts, no taking your shoes off at the airports, Karen and Nicole were together and there was no sign of the cancer that would claim Nicole.
I am not usually one for such morose thoughts, but as I watch the devestation Katrina has wrought and the general lawlessness that has pervaded the aftermath, I yearn for those simpler days.
Of course those days weren't simple, they just seem that way, clouded by the distance only the past can provide...
The background music was very helpful and I got a lot accomplised in a very short time. When I sat down, I remembered the last time I had seen it.
HBO had aired it in it's entirity live. I had decided to make an evening out of it. I called up Keith and David, and Karen and Nicole. We made appitizers and sat around reveling in the majesty and genius of Madonna. I was disappointed that her Evita number was reduced to an instrumental of 'Argentina,' but it was an incredible night: Good Food, Good Friends, Good Entertainment.
It was the last week of August 2001. It seems like a different world, and it was. There were no color coded alerts, no taking your shoes off at the airports, Karen and Nicole were together and there was no sign of the cancer that would claim Nicole.
I am not usually one for such morose thoughts, but as I watch the devestation Katrina has wrought and the general lawlessness that has pervaded the aftermath, I yearn for those simpler days.
Of course those days weren't simple, they just seem that way, clouded by the distance only the past can provide...
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