Wow, It seems like it was yesterday that I was scouring the Internet, with the help of www.google.com to find the name of the author of the poem in the Seasons post and reality smacks me in the face to say..."UMMM! That was Twenty-plus days ago!"

So, Let's fill you in on what's happened in my life in the past 20-plus days:

1. I've had a lot of fun and learned a lot of stuff.
   Those of you that spend a good amount of time with me, know that this goes without saying...I am one that "talks to strangers" and shares in their moments. I will never be able to explain how invaluable my interactions with "strangers" over the past ten years have helped me to become a better, calmer, more intent listener and better inquirer. Thank you my dear new acquaintances.
   
2. Met a truly impressive person.
   I enjoyed a light lunch with Dave Pallone, the MLB Umpire, who was removed from his position upon the discovery of his sexuality. He was at Worcester State College speaking as part of their Diversity Lecture Series. Mr Pallone's talk, which preceded the luncheon, focused on the value and the pain of keeping a secret and the stresses of lying to protect one's self. He particularly embraced the entire audience in his explanation of honesty and respect, as this was not simply GLBTQs and allies - many were MLB fans who were lobbing him questions about their favorite baseball stars. Many a head nodded in agreement when he asked that all respect on another, in any situation, position or circumstance.
   
3. Took in a Musical Review.
   Foothills Theatre Company kicked off it's 2007-2008 season with a musical review of the works of Kander and Ebb, titled The World Goes 'Round. The show was delightful!  
   
4. Sang my first professional gig.
   Ian Watson, Director of Music at St. Paul's Cathedral, Worcester invited me to sing a wedding on 10/13 - what a wonderful experience...not that I'm on my way to the next MET Auditions...but, I am happy to say that I was so pleased to stand in the rehearsal and zip through the music with the orchestra and not have to hear the same few measures over and over. Such fun and quite lucrative.
   
5. Performed in a fundraising gig for the Elementary School that My Grandmother, Mother and I attended.
   As stated on my Fruits Section for a few weeks, the Salisbury Singers performed at St. Stephen's Church, raising funds for the elementary school. I have to say...the response to my solo lines in one of our pieces was really humbling...I am trying really hard to work on my voice and my solo singing abilities and I think the hard work is paying off in many ways.
   
6. Had the shortest relationship of my entire life.
   Yeah, 3 dates...Amazing...Didn't think I'd be left in a bar when the person went to check for "AA Batteries." Humorous, in hind-sight!
   
7. Received a call for an interview with Staples, Inc.
   The interview is tomorrow, wish me luck! I've been prepping my skills and charm.
   
8. Attended, the following events/meetings
1. a wicked fun wedding with some of my dearest friends.
   Miss Jackie M.F. Cruse wed Mr. Eric Cawley, Saturday the 20th in a beautiful, quaint ceremony. The reception was at Indian Meadows. As many of you know, the facility has been operating for many years and I must say the owners deserve plenty of credit, the room that we occupied is a small version of the grand ballroom at PVCC and just as nice. Food was 'par excellence!' Awesome photos of the gorgeous bride, her handsome husband and beautiful children/wedding party are here and here.
   
2. upon special invitation, the Local Conference Meeting for the Massachusetts Commission on GLBT Youth.
   MPL invited me to attend the quarterly meeting of the MCGLBTY, hosted by the Worcester Tech High School, as a representative of the Worcester Pride Association. Michael is one of the advisors of the Tech GSA and asked me to attend in order to gather information to further the relationship of all three organizations. The experience was warming and frightening at the same instances. The teens, representing Milford High, Assabet Valley Reg. Voc. Tech and Worcester Tech, spoke openly with the Commissioners regarding their position as members of the respective GSAs and voiced several concerns - centering around lack of support from school leaders, policies, key role models and on the other side of the same statements was high praise for specific teachers who make sure to support and encourage respect for each other across all lines. I look forward to participating with these organizations in the future.
   
3. one of the many, Worcester Mayoral Candidates Debates at The Dive Bar
   The four Candidates for mayor step up to the bar in the fashion of many of our country's famed political decisions, they did just that...Konnie, Gary, Bill, and Rick converged on The Dive Bar on Green Street. It was great...Someday...I'd love to see/hear politicians answer questions directly, rather than skirting the points.
   
9. Broke and have had filed/smoothed one of my two front teeth. 
   Thank you Dr. Patel...I'll call you when I have $500 for the crown.
   
10. Didn't have to wait - at all - to order a replacement Social Security Card at the Social Security Administration on Myrtle Street, Worcester, MA.
    Yeah, I think I may have been in a parody or something! I'll be checking in on You Tube! periodically.

My dears, these are the highlights. This is a busy man! I love it! Just love it!