And The Heavens Opened

Good people, we had one fierce downpour here in CT. There was thunder, lightning, and everything frightening.

This all occurred during an award ceremony for students at my second job. As we were about to hand out awards the lights went out! Only emergency lighting went into effect.

We had to huddle up and pass out the awards, and eat dinner quickly in order to make the most out of the minimal light that came in through the foyer windows.

The cherry on this experience was me coming home to a power outage. Mother Nature done turned a bitch out.

I sat and waited. Suddenly I heard a neighbor across the street scream in totally jubilation. A bitch was lit once again! Halleloo.

A Cure For What May Ail You

Anyone that has seen this and no longer finds it genius is a jaded bitch. There I done said it. Amen and hallelujah!

I send this out to Aaron who is not feeling feeling well.

L M N O P

While working with the yungins I am reminded how new the world is to them. A great example is when I have to teach the alphabets and how each letter has a sound.

The tricky part is the vowels. In the english language they have two sounds (short and long), and get into this, some consonants have a hard and soft sound.

Let's play now with Ms. India and Elmo. However, make sure that a child learning the ABCs knows that L M N O P each have a separate sound. The yungins tend to muddle these letters together.

How This Chicken Got On My Plate?

Marcos was and still is a godsend for me. Good people, the divine sent Marcos to me so I can know love, learn, understand and evolve.

Let me share this one experience provided by Marcos, a son of Obatala, that required me to be part of prepping a live chicken for dinner.

What I recall is seeing a live chicken in our kitchen on Warren St. Then the chicken having human hands end the its life.

I recall putting the chicken into a simmering pot of water, and plucking it completely. I then had to butcher the bird and go deep within its cavity. I was told how to prep the chicken by an elder, and at that point Allan checked out and another part of me took over.

I do not recall at all, how I ended up with a clean and gutted chicken. This city boy went into automatic-ancestrally guided-pilot.

I do recall taking the prepared bird and making a savory chicken soup. Everyone, but I, loved the soup. My mind was swimming in contemplation. I wasn't grossed out, just taking in how I saw this chicken went from being alive to soup in front of my eyes, and through the effort of my hands.

We all need to experience and know where our food comes from. Whether it is animal, fruit or plant. Our ancestors done did a lot to bring food to the plate.

Take this video in. BTW, it is humane, yet doesn't pull punches.

Cheated Out of a Barbie

My sister Jenny so did not get the memo that informed her that when you have a gay brother into fashion, you are suppose to let him dress up and make you all sparkly. While I was lucky because I did get to play with her Barbies, she cheated me out of using her to play dress up.

Well, she did let me dress her up, once, for her 16th birthday. It was in December so she needed to be warm yet stylish. My cousin Eugene and I took her out for dinner and the World Trade Center way back in the 80s.

Her gift from me would be a complete outfit, from head to toe, bought at Unique, which was the trendiest store in the Village. It consisted of a turtleneck, bolero knit jacket and tartan pleated pants. Think Annie Lennox meets the Cosby kids. She ended up with three pieces that worked into her wardrobe and she pumped each item for points.

With such a successful experience you would think she would have had me by her side whenever she went clothes shopping. Yeah, not so much.

While she did always ask for my opinion whenever she came back from shopping, my nerves were kept in check, because she usually bought something cute. However, I was always left wondering if there was something shorter, longer, or at the very least in a different color.

I currently have a bone to pick with her, because she is yet once again not taking advantage of her access to the queens in her life.

My dear friend since high school, Devon, is an amazing designer. His sense of style is right on, and his work is always impeccable.

I keep telling my dear sister to commission my gay sistah for the occasional, frock, blouse, coat or jacket. Jenny will get a hot custom made garment, and Devon will make some coins. A win-win situation.

I guess I will have to settle with the fact she is a loving sister, an awesome mother, a warrior. However, when it comes to being my living Barbie, I just have to suck my teeth and roll my eyes.

Maybe I'll luck out in the far future when she gets a granddaughter. Ha! Who am I kidding? Jenny will snatch that little girl up for herself.

These amazing dolls are from the Byron Lars Barbie Collection. Click on dolls for a larger image.Click here for more.

McQueen At The Met

After a brief postponement the family and I went to go see the Alexander McQueen exhibition at The Met.

I saw couture up close and personal. It was art. If you can please go see the exhibition. Don't be afraid about the long line, it moved really quickly.

Here's a video to tempt you.

Jeff's Turn At Metamorphosis

Jeff Conaway died today. His sister says it was due to excessive prescription of pills and such. I'm sure she's right.

I remember him from Taxi and Grease. I thought he was so mad cute. I crushed on him hard. I do not consider him a great actor, yet I was always happy when his face showed up on the screen or tv. I wanted him to succeed.

When Jeff was on the exploitive show Celebrity Rehab with Dr. Drew, I felt sad for him. Jeff was being worked over by the demons of his past, and brief celebrity.

Now Jeff is at rest, and will cocoon and become a butterfly.

Molto tempo fa, in una galassia lontana, lontana ...

Check out the sexed up Luke and Leia.

A Starchild Landed - This Is What She Does

I found a good and goody blooger. She goes by the name of Tokimonsta, and her spirit landed on earth sometime ago. Her blog excites me and makes me smile. Click here to visit her blog. If you are doubtful, check out the music she makes below. This new child to earth is playful, and she gets inspiration from what was here before, now, and in the future.

Rapture II

This is a very true story. So, I went across the street to see my niece and spend time with family. We BBQed because what better way to celebrate the Rapture. So, 6 pm came and the steaks were done.

I stepped outside of the yard to take a look at the sky and the image above is what I saw. What made it even more amazing is that the end of the rainbow looked as if it was landing on my house right behind those trees.

The family said to me, "Look what Marcos sent you." So on this day of Rapture, what I received was affirmation of life, love and beauty always being around us, and how blessed I am to be open to receiving it.

BTW, a flock of geese flew by a few minutes later in perfect formation. It was awesome.

Rapture

So, at 6 pm about two million, faithful Christians, are going to big whisked away through the air to chill with god. While the rest of us stay down here and live in a plague filled world.

I like Blondie's version better:

TTFN Donald!

I am sooooo hoping we dodged a bullet. A lot of folks dismissed Donald Chump as a contender, yet I remember Sarah Pain-lin's rise to 15-minute fame.

The Ying and Yang of Teaching: 8

I recently posted about an anxious moment that enveloped me, after I encouraged two of my students living with autism, to participate in the town's science fair.

I wanted them to do well by being able to present their project. They needed to present to judges, convey they understood the scientific concepts, and take random questions.

This was a significant task for my two dudes from the fifth-grade, because conversation with others is a challenge for them. They both can go into their own world.

I am proud to say, they did very well. In fact they got an honorable mention! They said all the key points about magnetic forces, explain the procedure and outcome of their experiment, and referred to their display to highlight information.

Mind you, this was not a science fair for student with special needs. It was the science fair for the entire district! My two guys were the only young people with special needs at the event, and they held their own.

Fred's Beefcake Moment

I always digged Fred MacMurray. I thought he played a cool dad in My Three Sons. He was charming in Disney films like Flubber and The Absent Minded Professor. Plus he turned it in Double Indeminity and The Caine Mutiny. I never considered him hot, but rather a solid actor that was handsome.

Then I saw this picture on Michael Musto's blog. I gag and have yet to come together. Who knew he he had a beefcake moment!!!!? (click on the image for a larger version. you deserve it)

Click here for other pics of the leading men of the 30s, 40s, and 50s. You will be pleasantly surprised.

He Can Dish It Out, But Can He Take It? Not So Much.

I laughed that sorta of laugh that comes from deep down inside, when I saw the videos of Pres. Obama and Seth Myers snapping on Donald Trump. These men so laid into Trump that it was scandalous.

While I'm not one for public ridicule, Trump had it motherfucking coming. You have to see Trump seething in his seat. Megalomaniacs like Donald have no sense of humor when it comes to themselves. Trump gagged and will have to struggle in order to come together.

The library is open, let's start reading:

Anxious Teacher Moment

I'm encouraging two of my students living with Autism to participate in the Science Fair. I truly feel they are capable of doing well, but I just had a panic attack about it.

I will have to guide them through the process. Truly make them feel confident with the material and concepts. The project focuses on magnetic force.

They also have to interact with visitors to their display. This is a significant area of development for both of them. I told them they will be teachers for a day. I know they can do it!

Happy Easter

Happy Easter!

BTW, did you know the Easter bunny has its origin in pre-Christian fertility lore. The Hare and the Rabbit were the most fertile animals known and they served as symbols of the new life during the Spring season.

The bunny as an Easter symbol seems to have its origins in Germany, where it was first mentioned in German writings in the 1500s. The first edible Easter bunnies were made in Germany during the early 1800s. And were made of pastry and sugar.

The Easter bunny was introduced to American folklore by the German settlers who arrived in the Pennsylvania Dutch country during the 1700s.

The arrival of the "Oschter Haws" was considered "childhood's greatest pleasure" next to a visit from Christ-Kindel on Christmas Eve. The children believed that if they were good the "Oschter Haws" would lay a nest of colored eggs.

The children would build their nest in a secluded place in the home, the barn or the garden. Boys would use their caps and girls their bonnets to make the nests . The use of elaborate Easter baskets would come later as the tradition of the Easter bunny spread through out the country. Source: Holiday Net

My Spring Soundtrack

Good people, it's been awhile since I shared what is turning me on sonically. Here are some tracks that are helping me take in the arrival of spring in a joyful way.

The Warning by Sepalcure: A nice track to get you going without amping you up too much. It has the layers and house vibe that I love.


Make It Better (Stylus Dust Remix) by The Knocks: I stomp to the bus stop while this track gets my mind, body and soul ready for my students.


Electric Feel by MGMT: This track has been out for awhile, but it's new to me. I came across the band while reading some shady remarks about them. Hey, it's has a nice beat, and you can dance to it. Plus, I like when DWB try to serve up some soul.

I Gagged Then Came Together

I almost spit up my cereal with soy milk this morning. As I was checking out Dlisted.com I came across a post showing the disfigurement of Pete Burns' face. Good people, ya remember Pete right? He was the lead singer of Dead or Alive. He use to rock the eye patch and sang about being spun around and his heart going bang, bang, bang, bang.

He paid a lot of money and went through a lot of pain to get to these horrid results. I did see him several years back and saw the early stages of his new face. Silly me. I thought he would know when to say when.

This was Pete back in the 80s. The gown is not so great, but the face and hair are serving.

This is Pete now! There is nothing serving about this. What a shame!

Random Thoughts

I have off this week from work. I so needed it. I really need some downtime and need to start tending to some long overdue tasks. Well, at the very least I hope I can get several things done. With that said, let me share the following:

- Until the probate process for Marcos' estate is completed, money is extremely tight. I decided to just roll with it and keep things afloat. In the big picture I am still a very fortunate person, and I don't want to create negative energy around me.

- Meanwhile, last week Tuesday I was down to my last $20. Later that day a friend told me my name was on a list the NYS Comptroller had put out of people that are owed money. Good people, that Friday a check for $635 came to my rescue. Click here so you can go and check for your name.

- I am missing Marcos. I find comfort in having yet another experience where he was able to let me know he was transitioning. This recent experience involved Marcos becoming cocooned and the message being metamorphosis.

- The next day I walked in on the social worker of my school providing grief counseling for two young students. She used the metaphor of a butterfly going through metamorphosis to explain what happens to people when they die. She knew nothing of my recent experience. I had to go to my office and sit down. Affirmations rock!

- I will be heading to The Met next month to see the exhibit of Alexander McQueen's creations at The Costume Institute. Anyone within five hours of NYC should go. It is going to be a scandal! Click here for a taste.

Pop Quiz! Put Your Books Away

"The U.S. citizenship test is composed of 100 questions across five categories: American government, systems of government, rights and responsibilities, American history, and integrated civics. Ten questions from the 100 are chosen randomly for the test-taker. To pass, one must get at least six right. In its poll of 1,000 people, the Daily Beast rotated the questions. Beyond the topline—62 percent of Americans passed, 38 percent failed—there are huge discrepancies in the kinds of civic knowledge Americans collectively possess." Source: Newsweek

I took the test and scored a C+. Ouch! Give it a go and let me know what you earned in the comment section.

Click here for the quiz.

A Resource For Life-Long Learners

I just found a new website obsession. The Metropolitan Museum of Art has a great resource for learning within the Heilbrunn Timeline of Art History site. I highly recommend the thematic essays. You will learn so much.

Click here to explore.

God's Hands

My fifth-graders have been obsessed with this photo. I find it interesting, some of the most foul-mouthed, disrespectful, angry students have gone sentimental talking about God opening the sky. As one boy put it, "Mr. S, we have to be good now, because God is watching us."

I wonder how long the Godspell will last.

Dogs Can Be Gross

Dogs can be grossed at times. I've seen Gino eat his own vomit and once ate a piece of Luna's poop! One day Luna was out walking with me and there was a dead suirrel on the road and she ran over to it and started to rub her entire body over it. WTF!

I came across this video that proposes an explanation for why dogs lick their human's face when he or she comes home. I love Gino to the tenth power. However, if he wants me to throw up a little, so he can eat, it is so not happening.

Born This Way

Super Full Moon In Your Eye

"Mark your calendar. On March 19th, a full Moon of rare size and beauty will rise in the east at sunset. It's a super "perigee moon"--the biggest in almost 20 years.

"The last full Moon so big and close to Earth occurred in March of 1993," says Geoff Chester of the US Naval Observatory in Washington DC. "I'd say it's worth a look." Source: NASA

Ya know I'm a happy star-gazing-loca. Lucky me. The night sky in CT will be clear on Saturday!

Good people, make sure you look to the sky on Saturday.

The narrator is mad mussy-boo-cunt. Love it.

The Never-Ending Story Of Our Journey

Don't get it twisted, we have all been further activated. I send much love to my fellow atomic babies. Radiation has always been part of our unseen experience on this planet, and with the recent tragedy in Japan, the volume has been turned up.

Good people, the radiation in Japan has already hit the air and the sea.

With that said, follow Renee's advice and:

"Just go around giving people hugs and handshakes and telling them that you were glad they were here at the same time you were because it made life fuller."

It will get ugly as we pray for the cute. The poison will be in our water and food. Ripple effect in full effect.

When you get back to the god-source, remind the other lights that the life forms on this planet once consumed with respect, but then got selfish and consumed with no respect to maintaining a natural balance.

Please continue to live, love, learn and pass it on. When you transition from this earth-bound experience my hope is that your spirt can realize you did your Godly duty.

Heavy Times Require Enlightenment

I'm just looking at what is going on in the world and truly gagging. What is really turning me out is how the earth is sending all kinds of messages that things are not right.

It was tragic to see the devastation in Japan. To see the tsunami waves, made thick by debris, consume fields of various crops and neighborhoods was just horrific.

My jaw dropped. All I can think was that nothing will grow of flourish there for decades. The land had been polluted.

Now, I read that radioactive vapor had to be released into the air from reactor 3, at the nuclear power plant. That vapor is in the air and will flow throughout the rest of the planet.

This development coupled with the tsunami hitting parts of the U.S. and South America truly show how connected and small the planet has always been.

As always, some are saying these are signs of the apocalypse. Nostradamus and Edgar Cayce have been credited with predicting not only the natural devastations, but also the recent shift of the magnetic pole.

According to what apocalypse theory you subscribe to, life on this planet will cease to exist or the human race will experience an enlightenment that bands us together to heal and do things differently.

I'm sending healing vibes out to all with the hope that we do things differently.

I Had To Kick Some Ass

Image Source: Boys At Art

I had to stop and regroup this week. I've been very busy at times, and at a complete stand still the next moment. I'm not feeling very rhythmic. As a result, I let negativity creep in and trust me when I say it tried to do a number on me. Those dreaded dark forces wanted to make me feel inferior and afraid.

I spun around three times and started kicking ass. While my challenges are still there, I was able to get a sense of the direction I need to go, in order to handle what is in front of me. Work and life take no break except for when you are sleeping, and I'm not planning on going the Rip Van Winkle direction.

So I told the negative thoughts to "go fuck yourself" and I'm just going to keep on keeping on. I hope you all do the same.

Tio Johnny Doing His Thing

This is my Tio Johnny. He has always loved to dance and has always been an amazing dancer. Back in the days of disco, he was something to behold. I think every young woman I knew always wanted a chance to throw down on the dance floor with him (and off *wink*). Aint he cute!?
He has never stopped dancing. Here are some pics of him hitting the floor with a dance troupe, that has as members, adults living with physical and intellectual challenges. I believe most members of this group are dancers that are living with Down's Syndrome. Aint she cute!?
Tio Johnny has always been amazing in my eyes. He's the uncle that always has something interesting to tell you about. He is an avid reader. Moreover, he's someone that is trying to live his life in a way that has a sense of humor and grace.

Random Thoughts In Haiku Form

This image from Fischerspooner's album art has inspired me to do yet another round of Haikus. To read my past haikus, just search under haiku.

On teaching in an environment that focuses heavily on testing:

An NCLB Inspired Education

a young brain must thrive
wonderment no testing yes
child left behind

For Marcos:

From Lover to Starchild

soaring through the stars
thank you love for the visit
metamorphosis

Mother Nature is profoundly and ultimately in charge.:

Mami Nature

nurture her nature
took for granted mami's tit
bitter milk we drink

Past Grammy Moments That Stayed In My Head

I will tune into the Grammy Awards tonight. Over the past few years they have really turned the award show more into a concert. Plus music folks are so much more interesting to look at, because they be crazy. Who can ever forget the Grace Jones and Rick James pairing way back when? That moment was a hoot.

Here are some moments that have stayed in my head over the years.

Marcos so loved this performance. We would watch Pink over and over again.

I was a huge Culture Club fan! I was home with my family watching and totally turned red when Boy George said "You know a good drag queen when you see one." As a closeted gay teen I felt exposed.

I remember feeling an emotional pain, while being soothed by their voices. I was just a kid. Wow! The emotions music can stir within a person.

Spidey's Tangled Web

Julie Taymor must be having a fit these days. The past few weeks have not been kind to Spider-Man: Turn Off The Dark.

It seems critics got frustrated with the fourth delay of the official opening for the show. So, they decided to attend the Feb. 7th show, that was suppose to be the opening, as a night to see and review the show. Click here for the reviews. It is brutal what they had to say.

The show also got some bad press because full-ticket prices are being charged, and rumor has it that theatre does not provide signs to inform paying audience members they can ask for a refund or exchange on their tickets. And, the show was recently hit with two safety violations.

Then last night SNL had a kiki with the show's troubles with this ad:



After I read the reviews I was reminded of the moments that soared and flopped. In a previous post I shared that I saw the show, and expressed my optimism (click here), by hoping the people involved with this show can fix what ails it. After reading the reviews is seems very little was done to fix the holes in what has become a sinking ship.

The funny thing is that ticket sales have continued. I guess at this point people want to pay to go see what has become a sort of theatrical car accident. Bono and The Edge must be spitting nails!

Lacroix, Sweetie, Lacroix

"Camilla Morton, fairy tales are taking a very fashionable twist. “It all started when I was trying to explain my job to my godson,” Morton says. “And, I realized when you watch a couture show come together — the drama, the glamour — you literally see magic.” For “Christian Lacroix and the Tale of Sleeping Beauty,” the first of what will be a series of fantasy designer biographies (Manolo Blahnik and the tale of the elves is up next), Morton has spun the story of Beauty, a starry-eyed princess condemned to wearing bland sack dresses." Source: NY Times

I love this idea. I need to look into this. The library I keep for my students is due for some new additions to the collection. I always look for books that are clever, have a good message, and of course superb illustrations. Take a look at what Lacroix has done below. Gorgeous!

Click on images for a larger version.

Millions Of People Excluded From Donating Blood

However, the following need not apply.
The Red Cross has an eligibility criteria for donating blood, which is a good thing. They want to make sure that people are safe while donating and that the blood being collected is safe for distribution. This is all very sensible.

However, there are a few criteria items that when you look at it really are just fucking silly. The first being that their policy excludes gay men from donating. This is the line in the criteria for donating blood that keeps yours truly from being allowed to donate blood:

-- are a male who has had sexual contact with another male, even once, since 1977 (source: American Red Cross)

The list then goes on to say you are also ineligible to donate if:

-- have had sexual contact in the past 12 months with anyone that:

-- used needles to take drugs, steroids, or anything not prescribed by a doctor
-- is a male who has had sexual contact with another male, even once, since 1977
-- ever taken money, drugs or other payment for sex since 1977

Now, I have a question. Shouldn't this exclude a large segment of the population as well? The way I see it many men and women cannot answer this question with 100% certainty.

How many women engaging in heterosexual sex ask their partner(s), "Hey, you ever had sex with a man, pimped yourself out, or shot up?" I would guess less than 15% of women ask this question.

The same goes for heterosexual men. I would guess .02% of men have asked their female sex partners the same question. Most men are pigs and just need hole and a heartbeat.

So, when men and women are asked this by the nurse, in all honesty most of them would have to say, "Not that I am aware of." or "I've never asked that question of my sex partners." Thereby, making them ineligible because they don't know the answer.

Oh and if you are from Africa, or had sex with someone from Africa, you can just forget about getting juice and cookies on that day, after helping out the blood bank.

Am I wrong in coming to this conclusion?

BTW, thanks Todd for bringing up this issue, while still encouraging people to donate. You gave me a post item. Oh, and Todd I had another snowday on Friday (Todd just growled people.).

Couture Fix - Oh So Satisfying

The couture collections have spread their magic. Click here to see what is next. Armani made me gag with these shimmering dresses that looked like electrically illuminated melted candy (see pictures above). I have to find the video to see how the garments moved.

Another Snowday - Chillin' with Andy

Today, was my fifth snowday from work! Todd just growled a bit. See the thing is the majority of students in my district are bused to school, therefore, the slightest occurrence of inclement weather results in school being closed. At this rate we'll probably have the school year extend into July. So, don't be to envious people, I'm playing now but will pay later.

Anyhoo, I decided to watch on tv, Ovation's airing of the documentary Andy Warhol's Factory People for like the upteenth time. I'm fascinated with the stories and characters. To see the surviving members of that crowd share insights and stories is amusing.

My favorite story is the one about Andy having Bob Dylan sit for one of his "screen tests" and Dylan was cordial and sat for two hours basically not doing much. Just being all aloof in that rockstar sorta way in front of the camera.

The kiki of the story is that when it was all done, as Dylan left the Factory, he saw the silver painting of Elvis with the cowboy costume and gun drawn (see picture above). He grabbed the painting and said to Andy, "Hey man, I'll take this as payment." To which Andy just stared at him and turned "tomato soup red."

The scandal was that Andy thought he was alpha-art bitch, and he was so not ready for a contemporary that also thought he was alpha-art bitch. It gets better. A few months later Andy finds out that Dylan traded in the painting for a piece of furniture. The end result was that Andy and Dylan never "worked" together again. I find that hysterical.

Check Ovation's programming schedule for the next airing. It really is a fun and at times fascinating look into a modern mythical time.

Music Therapy - Old Skool Style

Good people, today was rough. I found myself missing Marcos and then frustrated that he is not here with me. I actually argued with him by talking to the air. I allowed myself that moment. Then I remembered that he fought long and hard, but was ill. While writing this I remember how handsome he was, and that I would love to give him one long kiss.

I know find myself, like I usually do, going back to the past. Today's therapy required me to revisit the music that ushered me into being a hip-hopper. I'm just visiting, but not staying. I needed a jolt of the old, in order to continue to allow me to move forward. When I heard old skool hip hop I was never the same. I found a profound connection to my time and generation. I was 12 years-old.

So this is about feeling a connection and accepting the time I am living within. I know there are some former hip-hoppers navigating life just like I am. Aint that right Renee?


When I heard this song I realized I was a teenager! Gag on this. I first heard this song at a Christian church dance!


This song will influence my movement into loving and vibing off of House Music. Yeah, I know the song in this video is very techno, but the subject matter and sonic vibe brought me to appreciate the scene at the Paradise Garage.


I love this man's voice.

A Night With Spidey

Intermission Time!

Okay so back in December I went to go see the Spider-Man musical! It was meant to be a night out with Marcos and my sister, alas, things sadly had changed.

I lifted m head up and went out to get back into life, and brought along two of my dearest friends that I've known since high school. Time with dear friends and a night out in NYC to see live theatre is just what my spirt needed.

Well, as many of you have read, the "Spider-Man musical" has been plagued with many problems. There have been canceled performances due to some scary moments that involved performers being injured. Most recently one of the actors that plays Spiderman fell over 20 feet into the orchestra pit when a restraining cable failed to break his leap. And, the lead actress playing Arachne, that suffered a concussion weeks ago, left the show this week.

Did someone connected to the show mentioned the Scottish play while in the house? It feels like the show is cursed.

What I saw that night was a preview and it's traditional to not offer a review while a show is in preview. It's just not fair. The directors, actors, musicians, et. al. are working out the kinks. So what I offer now is not a review but my own reflection on what I saw that night and that lingered with me.

- The proscenium is framed with this huge web that comes out into the theatre. Very cool looking and a perfect foreground for a comic coming to life on stage.

- When Spidey ran down stage in slow motion as the Brooklyn Bridge slowly ascended with Mary Jane dangling at the end, the audience cheered. I knew we were in for something new.

- Arachne descending from the heavens as she sang an ethereal song that told of her run-in with Athena was made even more surreal as the female members of the chorus swayed back and forth while dangling from long bolts of silk in order to weave a shimmering curtain. Genius!

- Watching Spidey fly above our heads was great fun. I gagged when he would land at different areas, because you can hear this thump when he landed, that let you know this was some serious acrobatics.

- The towering 3D televisions moved about the stage and illuminated the theatre to great effect. Seeing the Green Goblin 20 feet tall in techno-green while he taunted Spider-Man was particularly creepy.

- I admired the group of performers that really gave it their all. It must not be easy to try to get things right, while so many things have been going wrong. Great singing, great dancing, wonderful portrayals of their characters. America Olivio, the stand-in for Arachne, has a beautiful voice. The show must go on.

Okay, so maybe this was sort of a review. I guess I wanted to share that on that night I saw something that was really trying to take live theatre to another level. I wish all involved with the show the stamina and inspiration to make it work.

My Family of Choice

Sy Fy Fashion Fantasy Moment

While dreaming about the future, I took a short glimpse into the past. I remembered how Thierry Mugler excited me about fashion with is vision and major fashion show productions. I even got to see one of his garments upclose and try on one of his necklaces when Willie Ninja walked for him back in the day. It made a then young gayling smile and feel fierce.



About 22 seconds into the video you will see Willie Ninja werk the Paris runway with his idol, the legendary Iman. I was so happy for Willie. He went from the projects of Queens, NY and served it in Paris and Russia along side a diva that he adored. Dreams do come true.



This is an amazing and fun fashion show extravaganza. They don't build shows like this anymore. Please note Thierry Mugler's fashion has become a major inspiration for many designers of today. He was really ahead of his time.

Happy New Year

As Renee said in her blog "Like all the years before it, 2011 will offer the good, the bad, and the ugly." This is so true. As you know in 2010, I accomplished a major goal by becoming a certified special education teacher. I then lost Marcos who has been my partner-in-life for the past twenty years. Highs and lows is the natural flow of things.

I have resolved the following:

I will evolve my teaching skills to another level.
I will spend more time with the people I love and inspire me.
I will move forward from the profound changes in my life with love and grace.

Marcos whispered my name into my ear this morning. I smiled and it made him feel good. He's working his way to his next experience and I will do the same.

You take care of yourself good people. I wish you positive internal changes that will attract all that is beautiful in this life.

Glimpses Into The Past

Todd over at Hell's Kitchen shared a major tip for folks that love photography. He had mentioned that the Museum of the City of New York has a great archive of photos of NYC. Yo! He was totally correct.

The Jacob Riis portfolio is heartbreaking. He really recorded the underbelly and poverty of NYC during the 1890s. As I looked at the photos I imagined the stories of each of the subjects. I was transported.

Here is just a taste of what you will find. Take some time to check it out.

Pietro learning to write
A young scrub girl
A dive bar circa 1890, called a black and tan
Young thugs out for no good, chillin' at their spot
A boy and his bootblack kit
These young girls were part of a team that reviewed election results.

Thank You Lady T - Go Back To The Divine

Thank you Lady T for amazing music. Your music has served me well for many years. Here is one of the songs that always puts me in a good mood.



Fire and Desire that she did with Rick James, also has a special place in my heart, but it's all about Teena right now.

Dog Sings A Lullaby

Gino has been such a godsend to me over the past several weeks. He makes me smile, motivates me to get up and get out each day, and to focus on getting things together. Dogs are awesome!

UPDATE: Gino ventured out this morning after the blizzard. Once he realized the level of snow was taller than him he turned around and headed back to the house.


Dog Sings To Soothe Crying Baby brought to you by Funny

Santo Claus In Action

Yes, Virginia, Santa is Puerto Rican

I went shopping for Christmas presents today. It was not for family or friends. I rubbed my belly and became Santa for a moment because of love I have for two students at my school.

While I was away buying beverages for a mini-Chinese Buffet I put together for all of our students that receive special education services, a parent called with an urgent request.

This wonderful mother that has been trying very hard to take care of her kids, with her husband, was laid-off and said to a my colleague over the phone that Santa would not be coming to her home. Their money was tight paying rent and utilities. Her family is part of the working-poor.

She called me because she knows I have been very kind and caring towards her children. Last week I sent a letter home praising the efforts of their son that is one of my students. I went immediately into action. Santo Claus to the rescue.

A fellow teacher came with me, because homegirl knows how to shop. We picked out a cute PJ set for the girl, and a slamming shirt with matching beanie for the boy.

My fellow teachers also went into action and we will have toys to give to mom and dad for their well deserving children.

Putting my love for others into action brought joy to my heart. I feel so blessed. I wish the same for all the good people that stop by and read this blog.

I know this story will emanate to those that you love. The blessing of this story will multiply and love within our universe will increase.

Ban Line Dances

I just came back from the teacher's union holiday party. Let me just say that we teachers know how to party. What I loved is that it was truly a diverse group of folks, and we all got our groove on.

My only complaint is that we need to ban line dances. The only line dance that should still be done is the soul train line. Nuff said! Electric Slide was fun and cute like what 15 years ago. It annoys me when I get dragged out to do it. Uggh!

I rather see folks get out there and do their own unique thing. Way more interesting to watch and allows you to shine by contributing your own fierceness.

Nadia! We Should So Hang Out

Nadia G came right on time into my tv viewing life. She is funny. Her food looks good. I so need to try one of her recipes to see if there is skill behind her glam over the top personality. Take a look at this teaser and tune her in. She done grew on me people

World AIDS Day

Know your status by getting tested.

Love yourself and others by playing safe.

Stay healthy by getting treatment.

For all those that have lost their battle I lit a candle tonight in loving memory.

Thanksgiving with Ralph

I cooked a ham and collard greens for my family-of-choice's potluck Thanksgiving feast. I got a lot of compliments and ate till I was stuffed. It was sad at times when I thought about Marcos, but I showed up and engaged.

Then at 2:30 am I had to run to the bathroom and begin to vomit to the point that I thought a lung would come out. Like Todd, I too have the stomach bug going around. No one else at the party got sick. Lucky me.

I am now making ginger tea with cinnamon and honey. I will keep on keeping on.

Connected Via The Divine

I am about to share a very true story that happened today. As you know Marcos has recently passed. I am taking it a day at a time, but feeling more at peace thanks to the support of family and friends.

Hugs and kisses to my fellow bloggers that have expressed their support and sent me healing vibes. Thank you Aaron for what you expressed on your blog. Click here for the post.

So, back to the story.

I was walking Gino tonight and thinking about Marcos. I transmitted unknowingly to him that Marcos has passed. When we reached Marcos' car Gino stopped and would not move. I realized that he finally knew what has occurred. He looked around and sniffed the air and would look at me. Gino decided he wanted to go back home.

As we walked back I said a prayer and looked up to the stars and said "Marcos please tell me where you are."

I then heard a small motorbike coming down the street. I looked and all I saw was a huge bright headlight that lit up the entire street. On this tiny bike was a big guy that was way too big for the little bike. He reminded me of a clown in the circus. He was dressed in NY Giants regalia from head to toe.

As he pulled up next to me I saw a tiny license plate on the back of his bike that had printed on it Guarbo, Puerto Rico. Good people, tonight Marcos' ashes are at his parent's home in Guarbo, Puerto Rico. And, tonight his family gathered to offer him prayers so that his spirit continues its journey to the divine.

Meditate on the divine tonight and know that there is a cosmic connection that we all have access to and that will provide nourishment.

Marcos, I lit a candle at my alter for you tonight. I got your message and know that you are visiting your loved ones, and will be moving on. Seek the light and heal.

My Marcos Has Passed On

Good People,

My darling, dear Marcos has passed on to the other side. Twenty-one years he and I traveled together.

During our travels there were ups and downs and moments in limbo. I am spending my time focusing on when our life together shined.

I will remember his face as always handsome, his support as forever nurturing, and his body next to mine as a source of comfort.

His family and I came together with love and grace, and eased him onto his new journey. I am eternally grateful for that moment.

Move on papito by heading towards divine light. You are free now and can work your magic from the other side. Obatala's son has gone home.


A Classic Video Moment

Runway - A Poem

The music and the movement from Project Runway finale inspired this attempt at poetry.


Runway

a succinct saunter
serves seductive swerving
slide to side to slide to side
synchronized swishing and swaying
in singular sonic stomps
silk sounds a sudden snap
strands swing
shiny skin smiles and smirks
step spin stand
you succumb

By Allan S.

I've Got Life

The past few days have been heavy. I wonder what I still have within me to thrive. The musical Hair came to town recently and reminded me, I've Got Life!

A wink and a smile to Renee for reminding us that Nina Simone was earth-mother manifested.

GLBTQ Teens - It Gets Better!

My darling GLBTQ youth, it is very true that it does get better. It breaks my heart that many of you live in a world where you are silent, invisible and/or persecuted. Do not embrace self-hate! You are beautiful and capable of amazing things. Reach out and find the community and support you need. It will get better.

As a teen I had struggled with the idea of suicide, but I was fortunate to have found other options early on. I was lucky. Today, I wake up and feel so much gratitude for being here and living my life. Even on crappy days I remind myself I am blessed, and will continue to overcome any challenges that come my way. I am surrounded by many people that love me, and you will find that in your life. Keep on keeping on.

Because I Care About My Good People: 2

While some of the food shots may not look appetizing, the concept makes total sense. Good people, let us enjoy our carbs!

I know we can do better than the howcast.com folks when preparing the animal-based proteins and veggies.

When preparing this meal use sensible fats, olive oil is our friend, and cooking methods. I would have grilled the meat and roasted the veggies.

The Ying and Yang of Teaching: 7

So, I am six weeks into the new school year and here are some thoughts:

- We have all been bogged down with administering pre-tests and assessments of our students. I work in a data-driven district and the collection of data on each student is endless. The result has been very little teaching and a lot of probing. Ugh!

- I have a student living with Autism that has the most interesting abilities. One of his talents is being given a random date with a year, and being asked what day of the week it was, and what he did that day. His is able to recall the day of the week and activity within seconds. He has been able to recall as far back as 2006, when he was just six-years old.

- My caseload has doubled and I'm kinda freaking out. I have to spend the weekend revamping my master plan to do my thing with the children. This plan will change a few times over the school year, but teaching is a dynamic thing, it is never static.

- I adore all of the kids, even the challenging ones. I get so invested in them so quickly. My heart will break several times over the year. One of my kids already spent two-weeks locked up in prison. I will heal and get back at it.

My Body & Universe Talking

On the heels of some tremendous success, I decided to keep the momentum going full-steam ahead. The result has been rather mixed. I came down with a cold, and have generally felt out of step with what I've been doing. Today, I've decided to listen to my body and the universe, and do some course correction.

I realized that now I have to put certain things regarding my graduate degree on pause, and relish my new teaching position by pouring all of my energy into serving my new students. By continuing to stretch myself thin, I'm compromising what I give them and me being able to truly learn from this experience.

I'm blessed because there's been a hiccup in my financial aid, and each time I have a problem with it, I hear the soft voice of the universe telling me to "take a break." I also see my students struggling and once again the soft voice tells me, "their needs are greater than what you think you may need for yourself."

I have a vision of what I want to be doing, and I accomplished a huge part of that vision. Now, I have to settle into this thriving life I created and learn from it. I must trust that the same inner-love that propelled me to get this far is building up another message for me to receive and put into action.