I Think I Made A Cool Video!
Posted by: cwriter79 on: March 9, 2009
So, apparently the video attached below was so damn popular that the tyrants over at Facebook decided to take it down. I am attaching it here, hoping WordPress is a little more lenient. Let me be perfectly clear people. I am not the author, songwriter, or anything for this song, nor am I trying to make a profit. This song is the sole property of Lady GaGa and her record label… probably, more so her record label. The moves however, are totally mine. Enjoy.
Are You Gonna Take That Back?
Posted by: cwriter79 on: February 23, 2009
So, I hate arguing for many reasons; the biggest being the fact I’m no good at it. It amazes me how effectively persuasive I can be any other time except when arguing. When emotions get the best of me, circumventing logic and strategy, there’s no calm to be had. There’s only a healthy dose of irrational yelling mixed with raised blood pressure, a flushed face and sometimes crying. Yeah, I’m man enough to admit the last part.
If you haven’t guessed it, I just lost an argument recently. It’s one I’m 99.9999% sure that I was right about, but it didn’t matter. None of the rightness came through. Now, I’m sitting here seething and writing this blog. Not only am I angry, I’m kind of hurt as well. We uncovered angst lying deep under the surface of our relationship. Angst not reached through everyday scrapes, but uncovered by a real good gouging or several small scrapes over time.
At this point, the apologies and the angst resolution are what’s unclear. What’s perfectly crystal is the person responsible for initiating both. I have no doubt the apologies will happen. The angst resolution, however is another matter. I’ll keep you posted.
Why You Gonna Go And Do That WordPress?
Posted by: cwriter79 on: February 12, 2009
So, how about my blog was cancelled “accidentally.” Imagine my surprise when logging in I receive the following message: “Your blog has been archived or cancelled for violating terms and conditions.” After reading said terms and conditions (an action not taken upon creation of said blog), I began wracking my brain for an explanation. Had I been overly crass? No. I’d used profanity in a few posts, but nothing blatantly crass. Had I endorsed a product too heartily, giving the impression I was a spamming device? Not really. Was it because I was black? Or gay? Or worse still: black, gay and using Albeo as a theme for my blog?
After exhausting every conclusion, I decided to take the issue up with WordPress since they cancelled the blog. And, oh by the way, where was the warning letter saying, “Hey, bud. You’re getting a little out of pocket. Stop it. Just stop it. Or else.” I fired off an e-inquiry and waited for a response half-heartedly, pretty much believing WordPress didn’t care that a crucial catalogue of my life, not to mention a great writing exercise was gone.
But, lo and behold upon opening my inbox yesterday, I found out they do care! With a very sincere apology, my blog was reinstated. Apparently, they were just as baffled as I was about what happened. The familiar page loading like always sent my heart soaring, and immediately I had to write this blog. So, thanks WordPress. I totally didn’t mean the bad things I said about you. It was the anger talking and I’m sorry. Please forgive me.
Twenty Things I’ve Learned In My Twenties.
Posted by: cwriter79 on: February 6, 2009
So, today is my 30th birthday. I thought it would be cool to compile twenty things I’ve learned during my twenties. Here goes.
1. A change of direction when you’re going the wrong way is very beneficial and a heck of a lot better than being or feeling lost.
2. Loving the person you are is okay.
3. Loving the people you love is okay, too.
4. Good friends are about as indispensable as blood relatives.
5. Sometimes the people you love the most, hurt you the worst. It’s not always on purpose. Most of the time they’re loving you in a way they think is best.
6. Speaking up and telling people how you feel is necessary. It may not always work out for the best, but you feel so much better once it’s out.
7. Acknowledging your evil tendencies is the best way to keep them from overpowering you.
8. It’s wonderful to laugh often, loud, and hard. The alternative is crying which isn’t as fun.
9. Sex is fun with or without a relationship.
10. Writing can be both cathartic and a pain, but mostly cathartic.
11. Personal change doesn’t happen unless you’re fully on board.
12. Past lovers can be the best friends and the worst enemies.
13. You can dance all night, but you’ll pay for it the next morning.
14. Being drunk is a vastly different experience every time.
15. You’ll never know how much you’ll miss a loved one until they’re gone.
16. You have to pick you battles carefully.
17. You have to forgive and be forgiven.
18. Practice is the only way to get semi-good at driving a car in reverse. Well, I guess this goes for anything.
19. Being patient can be very hard at times.
20. The places you find love are the places you call home.
Well, so long twenties. It’s been fun. We’ve had some good times and some not so good times, but please believe I wouldn’t trade you for anything in this world.
Rating: 
Don’t You Just Love Being Sick?
Posted by: cwriter79 on: February 2, 2009
So, last weekend I picked up a nasty little bug of a cold. Not sure if it was the flu, but it was right up there. Apparently, I was overdue after weeks of staying up late, partying on the weekends, running four times a week, and just plain being mean to my body. But, it’s over now and it’s time to reflect back on all the not-so-fun times.
Beside the usual uncomfortableness, colds are really quite boring. After being quarantined inside my house for two days straight with only the TV and my snot to keep me company, I realized how much I missed being busy. Sure, it’s tiring, but running around is exciting. It makes you feel important, like your mere kinetic energy is keeping the world alive somehow. Then, you get sick and realize the world can do just fine without you. Bummer.
Having a cold is also the only time you’re ingesting stuff you wouldn’t normal ingest just to feel better. OJ? Not my favorite juice, but you better believed I drank a gallon of the stuff. How many cans of greasy, condensed chicken noodle soup did I try to keep down? And, don’t even get me started on the cold medication. I stuck it out with tried and true TheraFlu. The flavors are pretty yummy. Sort of like enjoying a cup of hot tea which I never do. By Tuesday, I was craving that first healthy meal. The one where your taste buds have returned and your stomach is practically growling for decent food. Thank you, Taco Mac.
Lastly, colds really suck when there’s no one there to fuss over you. Last weekend, all I really wanted was my mommy and the constant smothering only she can give. Mom’s unwavering devotion to your every need and whim until you’re healthy again is unmatched. Getting well without it sucks. Why? Because the one person you’re counting on to get you the things you need is sick, too. He/she doesn’t want to move let alone get you stuff. And, since you don’t keep the house stocked for sick days, he/she is forced to leave the comfort of the living room couch, shower, put on clothes and go out. And, that’s no good because being sick has an adverse affect on fashion sense. I know my local Walgreens cashier is sufficiently traumatized.
So, to all of you out there who are suffering through a cold, get well soon. And, to all you healthy jerks, don’t worry. Your time is a coming.
Did You Hear We Got Ourselves A New President?
Posted by: cwriter79 on: January 23, 2009
So, I’m just squeaking in under the wire with this week’s post. It’s been an eventful one starting off with the inauguration of our 44th president Barack Obama. And, right on time, too. I was getting tired of saying president-elect Barack Obama. It’s quite a mouth full. Well, technically the week started off with the remembrance of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Both events have now become keystones of Black history to be discussed and celebrated for years to come.
After viewing the speech and seeing the throngs of people who trekked to the nation’s capital just to hear it live, I asked myself, “How big of a Barack fan am I?” You’ve got admit the man has charisma and style. And, his star power currently is off the charts. But, there’s a tough road ahead for him. If he navigates it smoothly, he’ll sail right into the Presidents Hall of Fame. If he doesn’t, the love America has for him will dissipate quickly and he’ll become a scapegoat for everything that’s wrong with this country. Maybe it’s my love for the underdog, or the hope he’ll actually change things for the better. Either way, I’m definitely rooting for the guy.
Random.
Posted by: cwriter79 on: January 13, 2009
So, my friend Tracie has started this random video posting on her YouTube page. I say that to give her a shameless plug and to make myself feel better about this random-ass blog I’m about to post. There’s no theme, so if you’re expecting one well, sorry.
School is back in session. This is quarter ten of what was supposed to be eight, so forgive me if I don’t do sommersaults. So far, it looks like another three months of the usual. Got my seventh-quarter application back. Has that come up before? Maybe not. Okay so, at the end of quarter six, students are required to submit fifty pieces of potential work for a final portfolio. The application comes back the beginning of quarter seven with suggestions and advice for formulating a completion plan. My feedback was pretty straight foward, which means operation “Complete Portfolio” is underway.
Did you know my first art director/creative partner is from Brazil? He’s a fourth- quarter. Student, not an actual fourth quarter. Like in the making of dollar or fiscal year? He’s from Brasilia or somewhere near there. His first name is pretty hard to pronounce, so he goes by his last because it’s easier. Kind of how I started going by Ty, because people couldn’t pronounce Tyrese to save their lives. Well, that is until Tyrese Gibson. Thank God for that! Our partnership is working out okay. Communicating sometimes isn’t easy, but it’s basically a lot me guessing what he’s trying to say and vice-versa. We’ve got two weeks to work it out though. No worries.
Apparently, a worsening economy means vending machine inflation. At school, it now costs $1.40 to get a twenty-oz bottle of Coke; $0.70 for a twelve-oz can. Which begs the question: why would anyone purchase the 20 oz bottle when you can get four extra ounces for the same price? I guess if you’re really into recycling or like the feel of cold plastic in your hand, it’s pretty tempting. Remember when a can of soda cost 50 cents? And, now I’m officially old.
Why is it I never remember to bring a towel with me when I go to the gym? And, by gym, I mean the one at the 2012 lofts. The one I have unlimited access to because of a friend who lives there. And no, not that type of friend. Secretly, I sweat like no body’s business. In fact, my forehead is getting shiny just typing this sentence. But, for some reason, in those times of deliberate exertion, I forget a sweat towel. And instantly, I’m that guy. The one whose getting sweat all over your favorite machine. The one who after he’s done with his workout, looks like he’s taken a shower with his clothes on. It’s okay though, because one day you’re going to ogle this sweaty bod. Mark my words!
I went to a new club this weekend. Well, it’s an old club, but new to me. And, on a Sunday, too! Who goes out on a Sunday? Apparently this guy. The place is called El Chaparral. It’s only “family friendly” on select nights, hence the Sunday night outing. Music selection: hip-hop, house, reggaeton, and r&b. Overall, pretty cool. A little too young for my tastes (damn! Getting older by the second here). Not to mention, the DJs have a touch of ADHD. As soon a song is recognizable they’re off to the next one. Not ideal for getting your groove on successfully.
Rating:
Okay, my rambling is coming to an end. Thanks for hanging in there. Allow me to leave you with this parting act of passive aggression. If someone asks you for lemon pepper, always verify if they mean seasoning or marinade. If you don’t, they may unintentionally make you feel like an ass for making the wrong choice.
Rude!!!
Posted by: cwriter79 on: January 5, 2009
So, here’s the story of my meltdown on New Year’s Eve.
Dressed fly, my friends and I had a plan for success. Dinner and a bar for drinks. Nothing too crazy. Simple, right? Well, it started off that way. We got off to a late start, but dinner was great. Copelands. If you have one near you, go. Food and ambiance is great. It’s Mardi Gras with a lot more class.
We leave the restaurant and head towards one of our usual hangouts Blake’s on the Park. Now, my close friend loves this place. Me? I can take it or leave it. For one, it’s crazy small. Now, I know all the folks reading this are saying Blake’s? Small? It’s two floors. Yes, that’s true, but both floors are ridiculously small. And, to make matters worse, the space is not feng shui or people shui for that matter. The bars are way to big, making walking room obsolete. Sometimes I don’t mind. You know when there’s a hottie “brushing” by it’s cool. But, most of the time it’s a rude-ass queen who thinks his shit doesn’t stink. You know the one who thinks he can push you aside, step on your shoe, talk shit about your behind your back because some horny dude sometime, somewhere told him his ass was made of gold. Reason #2 for my dislike of the place. But, I digress.
Though I’ve had a couple of bad experiences there, tonight was going to be the exception. The game face was on. When we got there, it wasn’t that crowded. Folks were buzzed and not drunk. And, the nice gay folk were out. As the clock move closer to midnight, the good gay folk disappeared and the pushing and toe smashing began. But, I was cool as cucumber.
We rang in the New Year with a drink and some hardcore dancing. Around one or so, one of my boys starts getting antsy. The snottiness is increasing and it’s getting on his nerves. I actually start calming him down which is a first for me. I’d had my share as well, but the will to keep calm was strong, the sufficient buzz helping out a lot.
Two o’clock rolls around and I’m starting to sober up. I’ve missed dancing to three really good songs because there’s no room to stand let alone dance. I’m huddled up with my boys, when this prissy guy walks up behind me. Seeing that he’s trying to get through, I try to make as much room for him as the space we’re standing in will allow. Obviously, I’m not moving fast enough, because he proceeds to push passed me, stepping on my heel in the process. He pushes me so hard that I almost fall onto one my friends. At that point, I’d had it. I took my hand, placed into the small of his back and gave him a good shove right back. In retrospect, it was a pretty childish thing to do. But, wait it gets better.
I turn back around. Behind me, he’s bitching up a storm about rude folk and I’m getting more and more irritated. Then he says, “I don’t know what everyone’s fucking problem is. It’s fucking New Year’s. One of those three guys just pushed me and I don’t know why.” At this point, I whip around and proceed to identify myself as the pusher and tell him (rather loudly) why he got pushed. He cops an attitude and immediately, I’m in his face, so fast in fact that my friend (who was initially angry) almost trips throwing himself between the both of us. At this point, he’s talking shit, I’m talking shit. His fag hag is trying to calm him down, my boy is trying to calm me down. Somehow, the confrontation ends without any physical violence, but I’m pretty much rattled. And, pretty much that’s how the night ended.
Conclusion: I’m barring myself from Blake’s awhile. This will make incident #2 where I’ve literally lost my cool and the place is totally not worth an ass-whooping. Yeah, the guys are cute, but it’s Atlanta, baby. I can run into cute guys in the grocery store and you better believe they’ll have better attitudes.
Rating for Blake’s On The Park:
Rating for my behavior:
Overall rating for New Year’s Eve (sans confrontation):
Resolutions 2009.
Posted by: cwriter79 on: January 1, 2009
So, ringing in the New Year last night was a blast, despite a minor incident of rudeness (details to come in a later post). Today, I’m taking it easy and thinking about personal improvement. Last year’s resolution experiment was a personal success. But, this year the resolutions are tougher. The drama is more intense. And, if all goes well someone will walk away a better person. Hopefully, me. Welcome to Resolutions 2009!
1. Lose 20lbs.
Yeah, baby! I thought 10 was hard, but 20 is no joke, seriously. Loosing the 27 last year required actions uncharacteristically me. Now, those actions have become routine, so duplicating the same results will require me to go even further. Like, actually getting serious about giving up fast food. How do you say goodbye to something that’s been apart of your life for so long? Since my first Happy Meal, fast food has seen me through the best and worst of times. Chances are good we’ll probably hang from time to time this year, but seriously, I need some space.
What else. I should probably start weight training. Not as much to become all muscly and stuff, but just enough to gain some definition where it counts. And, if nutritionists and physical trainers are right, the added muscle mass will help me shed pounds as well. Success on this one will put at my ideal weight.
2. Finish school.
It’s back! I was pretty bummed to take this one off my list last time, but this year it’s going to happen. There’s a slight chance of not graduating, but as God as my witness, formal education and I will part ways! Well, for awhile at least.
3. Become more outgoing.
This may seem like a shocker, but I have hermit-like tendencies. If left to my own devices, I’d probably recede into the shell of my dwelling, never to come out again (no pun intended). First recognized this characteristic when my friend Jamen moved up. Before he was here, I didn’t do much. I didn’t know many people outside of school, and even then, I was only really cool with a few of them. When it comes to “family” friends, the picture is even more pathetic. I’ve blamed it all on school being hectic to Atlanta just being one of those solitary, individualistic places. But, when it comes right down to it, I’m part of the problem as well.
What am I gonna do? Don’t know. Start small I guess. Introduce myself to people I don’t know. Maybe accept some of the invitations to do stuff, instead of chickening out and going home to watch SpongeBob.
4. Stay positive.
Didn’t do so hot with this last year, and wouldn’t you know it, on the very last day of the year, another meltdown. Remember that one incident of rudeness? Yeah. So, my work is cut out for me on this one.
5. Blog more often.
Ha! This one was coming for awhile. If you’ve noticed, I seem to abandon this thing when life gets hectic. I realize now coming here during those times may be more of a relief than a hindrance. So, here’s the deal: A post a week. If I can’t blog 52 times this year, then what’s the point really?
Okay, five resolutions. Pretty good. Stay tuned as Resolutions 2009 unfolds.
Final Resolution Status of 2008!
Posted by: cwriter79 on: December 31, 2008
So, it’s pretty crazy. Here we are at the end of another year. Well, maybe not crazy. Time inevitably marches on with or without us. So, I guess the amazing part is that we’re all here to see this year close and a new one unfold. Okay, deep thoughts over. I’m sure you’re dying to know how I made out with the resolutions I set back in January. I won’t keep you waiting any longer.
1. Try my best to stay positive.
Oh, boy. Taking the entire year into consideration, I’ll admit that I didn’t do so hot with this one. There were tantrums. Many, many tantrums. Most having to do with school as it tends to be the bane of my existence these days. Luckily, I have a few really close friends who have the guts to call me out on my child-like behavior. Thanks for keeping me semi-grounded! Love you for that.
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2. Lose 10 pounds.
Year to date: I’ve lost 27 pounds! Incredible for the man whose mastered the art of the yo-yo. Here’s to hoping this last flip of the wrist will truly be the last. I never liked the yo-yo anyway. As toys go, it’s pretty lame.
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3. Embrace Change.
For the most part, I’ve rolled with it. And, you know what? Once you jump, the water isn’t as cold as you think it is. This final quarter were interesting. Talking with my mother candidly about my sexuality was by far the biggest change for me. Never thought we’d get here. When I think back to tearful discussion of my coming out (in my childhood bedroom no less), I would of bet money this part of my life would always be a source of strain for us. Needless to say, it threw me for a loop to hear her ask about the bars I’ve been to or my past relationships. So yeah, change. It can be crazy, stressful and sometimes, positive.
Rating:
And, there you have it. My 2008 wrap-up. Started with four resolutions. Ended with three. Was highly successful with two. Not too shabby. Maybe, I should up the ante. Congrats to everyone who made it through another year. See you in 2009!
