Saturday, December 29, 2007

This Place Is A Zoo

I spent an evening out with my good friend Chris last night. We decided to go to the National Zoo for their Zoo Lights event. Basically, it's like those drive through light displays that they have at Bull Run and Merriweather, but you walk through instead. It was quite fun. . . but also, quite miserable.

Unfortunately, it was cold and rainy the whole time. And it seemed that the closer we got to the zoo, the harder it came down. We took the Metro to the zoo and saw this lovely display at the Connecticut Avenue entrance.

Now, I don't know how many of you readers have visited the zoo using the Metro, but the subway stop is about a quarter of a mile down hill from the zoo. Not a big deal. . . unless it's raining. . . and your clothes are soaked.


Once at the zoo, they did keep some of the animal houses open ,so you did have an opportunity to warm up a little. Most of the animals were asleep. Here's a shot I tried to take of a meerkat. The pic is blurry because I tried to take it on my digital camera without the flash, so as not to scare the animal.


Back outside for another light display.

I think they may have had some event earlier in the evening, because we came across this ice sculpture under a tent full of tables and chairs. BTW, the cow is not part of the sculpture.

Now here's the really fun part. Evidently, we got there pretty close to closing. Each time we went into a different animal house, an attendant would let us know that the house would be closing soon. Not a problem, we could still look at the lights outside. Well, we left the last house, walked to the end of the zoo, and then turned back to leave. We were the last ones to leave the park. How do I know this? Well, halfway through our uphill walk back to the exit, they turned out the lights on us. Not just the light displays, but the park lights in the section that we were walking through. Can I tell you that it's a little creepy walking through the zoo at night with no lights on and no one else around.

Well, after we finally made it uphill (the zoo is all hill) to the exit, we were soaked and out of breath. . . OK I was out of breath, Chris is a dancer and much more fit than me.

Despite the weather, a good time was had by all. Oh, and I'll have to let Chris tell you about the reaction he got when he asked if they were selling umbrellas.

Tuesday, December 25, 2007

Merry Christmas Darling

I'd like to wish all of you Haven Dwella's a very merry Christmas!

And now, let me leave you with the video for one of my favorite Christmas Songs.


Music video codes - Carpenters music video

That song always makes me think of my Carla.

Friday, December 21, 2007

Antonio Be Shoppin'

I hate shopping. I especially hate shopping around Christmas time.

Today I went to Potomac Mills to finish up some Christmas shopping. Unfortunately, I made the mistake of Christmas shopping without having an idea of what I wanted to get. So, I ended up walking the whole mall and only finding two things. I finally had to leave because the mall started to get more and more crowded. Note to self. . . next time, have a list.

Hey, by the way, they had the coolest thing at the mall. They had this Christmas train that kids could ride on, and it actually travelled through two sections of the mall. I was walking, when all of a sudden I heard a train whistle behind me. I turned around, and there was a train coming at me. Cool!

Ooh, and for those of you who are familiar with the Don and Mike show on WJFK, I was right behind Don Geronimo at the drive-thru of the McDonalds at the mall.

One last thing, as I was passing one of those kiosks in the middle of the mall, one of the merchants tried to get me to buy a hand bag. "Wouldn't you like to buy a lovely bag for your wife or girlfriend?", he said. Ugh! Who is he to assume I have a wife or girlfriend? What if I had a husband or boyfriend? . . Not that I have a boyfriend. . . Not that I have a husband. . . Not that there's anything wrong with that. . . Oh never mind.

Wednesday, December 19, 2007

Stop, Ladies, Pray. . . A MAN!

I, as a guy, hate going into women's stores. Want to know why? Well, I'll tell you. Every time I go into one of "those" stores (to buy gift cards for family members or friends), I feel so self conscience, and for good reason.

Every time I walk in, I hear the sound of necks whipping around as everyone in the store turns around to look at me. Then when I get to the counter, it seems like the cashiers take forever.

The other day, I went to a store to buy a gift card for my mom. As usual, everyone in the store turned to look at me. When I got in line, there was a woman in line who kept staring at me with this look of distrust on her face. Then when I got up to the counter to buy the card, it took five minutes (not an exaggeration) just to activate it.

A few times over the years, I've gone to Victoria's Secret to buy gift certificates. It was always the same thing. Every time I'd ask for a gift certificate, it would take forever. And, they always seemed to be out of them and would have to go to the back to get more.

You know what I think? I think those stores do that on purpose because they see how uncomfortable I am. I think they go to the back and yuck it up with each other.

Monday, December 17, 2007

The Meat Counter


I was grocery shopping at the Shopper's Food Warehouse last night, when I heard the most interesting conversation coming from the three female employees behind the deli counter. Something about one of them checking her man's shoe size before marrying him. I wonder what that was about. . .

Friday, December 14, 2007

A Little Chick-A-Bowow For Dessert

Are you familiar with the Brenda Lee version of "Rockin' Around The Christmas Tree"? Have you ever really listened to that song. If not, I'd like you to click on the link and listen to the line "Later we'll have some pumpkin pie". I'd like you to notice how the word "pumpkin" sounds a little inappropriate. I'm just sayin' . . .

Tuesday, December 11, 2007

Here Comes Santa Clause

I was having an email conversation with my ol' friend Missy the other day. She was talking about her son and how good he's been, and how Santa was bringing him everything he wanted. The conversation brought back a lot of memories of Christmas as a kid.

The one thing I remember most was the anticipation on Christmas Eve. I remember how I just didn't want to go to bed. And when I did, after my mom would make me, I would try my best to stay awake.

Now here's something funny. There was one year that I could have sworn that I heard Santa on the roof. Why is that funny? Well, because I lived on the second floor of a three story garden apartment building.

BTW, check out the birthday card Sabra sent me.

Sunday, December 09, 2007

A Christmas Present For My Readers

Click here and enjoy!

You gotta love it.

Friday, December 07, 2007

The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year

On this holiday season, make sure you turn up your speakers and enjoy the "Sounds Of The Seasons" while you're reading BruDog Haven.

Thursday, December 06, 2007

Ladies, Look Out

There was a study done at McMaster University in Ontario that proved something that I've known for years. Men who have deeper voices are more attractive to women. Don't believe me? Click here and read it for yourself.

They did this test on an isolated tribe in Tanzania and found that the men with deeper voices had more children than the men with higher voices.

Hey Lori! Remember how you used to lay your head on my chest while I hummed behind the Pontipee house during "Seven Brides..." Hey Trish! Remember how you would always comment in "Joseph..." about that bass line I sang on "...we should be blamed". Now I know the reason. You all wanted me. heh heh heh.

Monday, December 03, 2007

Let's Shed A Tear For Number 21

It's hard for me to get as emotional as others over the Sean Taylor situation. I'm just a football fan who watched him play on TV. I didn't know Taylor personally. I'd never met him and probably wouldn't have. I'd never been to a game he played in. That being said, I totally understand why a situation like this gets so many people so emotional.

I was watching the Redskins game yesterday. Much like the rest of the NFL games this week, there was a moment of silence before the game to remember the recently diseased Taylor. Of course, this game was a little different because this was the team he actually played for. Well, I found myself getting a little teary eyed during the tribute because it touched me so much to see his teammates/friends/brothers so affected by his lost. It's hard watching a group of two to three hundred pound men in pads crying.

Wednesday, November 28, 2007

'Tis The Season

I haven't started Christmas Shopping yet. . . I don't want to wait till the last minute. . . I have no idea what I'm getting anybody this year. I've lost my gift giving creativity. . . I could just get everyone gift cards. But I hate doing that. I feel like I'm not being creative. On the other hand, I love getting gift cards. . . Can someone give me a gift card for my car payment? . . *sigh* Just thinking out loud.

BTW, someone please help me decide what to get my grandmother who either has, has had, or doesn't want anything, and that I don't have to pay a fortune for.

Monday, November 26, 2007

Prime Time


I was a little worried at first about the whole writers strike. The idea of my TV shows being put on hiatus because of a strike scared me. Then a thought came to me. Maybe it's not such a bad thing that I won't be able to enjoy all the shows I normally watch.

I've reached the point in the television season where I feel that I am too consumed by TV. When I say consumed, I mean that I find myself rushing home to watch. And I find that I spend my whole days off watching shows that I recorded on my DVR throughout the week. Sometimes I go to bed way later than I want to because I have to see what's on TV. I have magazine subscriptions that I'm months behind on and books that I've been meaning to read for years.

Possible shows on the chopping block: K-Ville, Cane, Moonlight
Shows I've already given up: Prison Break, Back To You

Except for "Back To You", I really like the other shows. It's just that something has to go.

Having said that, a TV show that I gave up years ago just made a big announcement. "The Apprentice" just announced the participants for it's celebrity edition. I may come back for that.

Friday, November 23, 2007

Black Friday

Four words:
Ri dic u lous
You will never ever see me standing in line at any crowded store at four in the morning.

Wednesday, November 21, 2007

Thank You Readers

BruDog Haven would like to wish all of you haven dwellers a very

Happy Thanksgiving!

What's wrong with this picture?

As I type this, I am about to watch my DVD copy of "A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving". Please feel free to revisit my review post of this special from last year.

Monday, November 19, 2007

Some Mo' Thanksgiving Fun

Check out this addictive Thanksgiving game I found. Just move the turkey with your mouse and collect the feathers and corn. Avoid the fork.

Thursday, November 15, 2007

Some Thanksgiving Fun

Here's a little something to put a smile on your face. Check out "Star In Your Own Thanksgiving Story". All you have to do is fill in a few blanks and then read your story. Enjoy!

If you'd like to see the story I created, click here: Antonio's Story

Tuesday, November 13, 2007

What Say You?

Cranberry Sauce


Canned or Homemade? What Say You?

I make my own, although I am a big fan of canned also.

Saturday, November 10, 2007

Tuesday, November 06, 2007

No No Noel

Just a little rant today.

It's November 6. It's six days after Halloween. It's sixteen days before Thanksgiving. . . My point? . . . It's not Christmas!

The idea of this post came from me looking at a retailer's website that had Christmas items on it. Suddenly I thought, "Oh my god! I'm running out of shopping days!" Then I came back to reality and remembered that it's only the beginning of November.

At the store the other day, I was considering buying a few cheap Thanksgiving decorations for my office. But, I couldn't find anything because the only stuff out was Christmas stuff.

There are two channels of the music stations on my cable service that are playing Christmas music.

My good buddy Tom emailed me to tell me that XM radio has already switched over to Christmas music.

Now, some of you ol' West Enders might be saying, "But, Antonio. What about all those years that you and Tom used to decorate the green room in early November." Well, you got me there. But, that started because we were always deep into set construction in December. We figured that the only chance we had to decorate was early. Even then, once I left the building, no Christmas until December.

Don't get me wrong. I love Christmas. But gee, let's get through Thanksgiving first.

Thank You. . .

Friday, November 02, 2007

Peeyou

OK, don't ask me how I came across this, but I was on the web and saw a product that I'd never heard of, but was intrigued about. You've probably heard of a practice called the "courtesy flush". For those who have never heard of it, it's a technique used to lessen the unfortunate personal aroma produced when using a public toilet. You basically flush as soon as the first round of you know what falls.

Well, I came across a toilet deodorizer called "Courtesy Flush". For $4.99 you get this liquid that you drop into the bowl before you "go", and it's supposed to neutralize the smell.

So, I guess I know what I'm getting Mark for Christmas.

Wednesday, October 31, 2007

BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

Enjoy the scary sounds of BruDog Haven today!

Monday, October 29, 2007

The Funk Of Forty-Thousand Years

Feel free to double-click on the video to see it in full screen.









pluginspage='http://www.microsoft.com/windows/mediaplayer/en/download/' ShowTracker='1' ShowControls='1'
ShowStatusBar='0' width='320' height='280' EnableContextMenu='0' src='http://www.videocure.com/music-video-code/m/4e14e2d633a5dd82c17ed06c5803f389.asx'>

Music Video Codes by VideoCure

Thursday, October 25, 2007

Spell The Word, B E E

I had the privilege of seeing "The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee" at the National Theatre this past Tuesday. I have to say, what a fun show.

I'm sure you all have heard of this show, but for those who haven't, it's a very funny parody of local spelling bees. The show includes many a funny one liners, some improv, and also incorporates a lot of current topics including comic references to lead paint in China and J K Rawlings' Dumbledore is gay revelation. They also bring preselected volunteers onstage who actually have to spell words to stay onstage.

Now, here's the bad part. Man, that National Theatre was not meant for the big or tall man. The seats are so small and the rows are so close together. I'm not all that tall, but my legs were pressed up against the row in front of me. Luckily, there was no one sitting in the seats in front of me and the seat next to me was empty, so I could stretch out.

So, in conclusion, I'd like to say, if you're looking for a fun evening with a fun show, head on over and check it out. It's playing there through Nov. 4th. Go see it now! That's N - O - W!

Saturday, October 20, 2007

I Scream, You Scream, We All Scream, For. . . ?

As I sit here typing this post, I happen to be enjoying a big ol' bowl of ice cream. You're probably asking, "Why are you telling us this Antonio?" Well I'll tell you.

So the other day, I happened to go to a Bloom supermarket. It just so happened that the store was celebrating it's "birthday". They were having an all day birthday celebration which included cake, door prizes, and grab bags. Well, I finished my shopping and headed for the register to pay for my stuff. While I stood in line, an announcement came over the loudspeaker. "Attention Bloom shoppers! We have our next birthday celebration winner! The gentleman on register five! Congratulations!" I only half payed attention to the announcement. I was too busy watching the cashier ringing up my groceries. Then it occurred to me, "Which register am I standing at anyway?" Just as I looked up and notice the number five above my register, a group of employees surrounded me cheering and congratulating me. Then the manager came up and told me I had won a prize of a half-gallon of ice cream. He asked me what flavor I liked, and then went off to go get it for me. And readers, this wasn't some store brand ice cream. He brought me some Bryers. You know, the good s#!+.

Mmmmm! Mmmmmmm! Mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm!

Oh, sorry! I was just enjoying my ice cream. Gotta go!

Wednesday, October 17, 2007

And, The Winner Is. . .

. . . Ron!
Ron is the Grand Prize Winner of the "BruDog Haven GLBT History" contest. He has won the oppurtunity to become the new face of BruDog Haven. Congratulations Ron. His fact was:
"'La Cage Aux Folle' was the very first musical to have an openly Gay Relationship."

On a different note, for those readers who have their computer speakers turned on, BruDog Haven will feature Halloween songs through the 30th and will feature scaaaaaary sounds on Halloween itself. Check it out and enjoy!

Thursday, October 11, 2007

Invasion Of The Gays

Today's post was unwittingly submitted by Sucka. It's a website that he came across while researching gay history facts. I think it's pretty funny. Check it out. The Gay Agenda!


Only three days left to win the prize!

Tuesday, October 09, 2007

Hissll-Ah Hissll-Ahhhh!

*Warning*
Some readers (mainly parents of younger children) may find today's post a little disturbing.


Yesterday, a comment that Jim wrote reminded me of a game we use to play as kids in the neighborhood I grew up in. This game was called "Hide And Seek, Go Get It!"

Just like the traditional game, someone would be "it" and everyone else would hide. Here's where the game takes a turn. The "it" was actually the boys, and the girls would hide. The boys would count, of course, and then "seek" the girls.

Once you found a girl. . . well. . ., you would have what we thought of as "sex". Back then, we were too young to know what sex was, so this "sex" involved rubbing up against the girl and making a noise which sounded like hissll-ah hissll-ahh (that first word sounds like the sound you would make if you touch something very hot). Then we would switch and the girls would be "it" and we would hide.

Well, that was a long time ago. And every time I think of that game, it makes me laugh because of that sound we used to make. It wasn't until years later that I got to experience what that sound really meant. The scary thing is that nowadays, I think the kids would actually know what to do once they were found.


BTW, five more days left in the contest!

Monday, October 08, 2007

I'M KING OF THE PARKING LOT!

On the way home the other day, I stopped at the Giant near my house. In the parking lot was one of those traveling amusement companies. I haven't been to one of those since I was a kid. I know they are probably safe but they creep me out a little. But that's not what I'm blogging about today.

I'm blogging about what caught my eye amongst the rides. I've seen one of these before, but never thought twice about it until today. It's the Inflated Titanic Slide. Yup, it's a balloon bounce replica of the Titanic that you climb up and slide down. Wow. . . How soon before we start seeing the World Trade Center Free Fall Tower.


Also, at work the other day, I was in a conversation about camp songs. Well, I happened to be looking up the lyrics to an old camp song on the web, when I came across the Titanic Song which I had never heard of. Hear is a sample of the lyrics:

Chorus
-It was sad, so sad
-It was sad, too bad
-It was sad when the great ship went down to the bottom of the sea
-Uncles and aunts little children lost their parents
-It was sad when the great ship went down, down, down.
-Kerplunk, it sunk to the bottom of the sea


All I have to say is, "Wow."

Monday, October 01, 2007

Hey, Did You Know. . .

. . . that October is Gay and Lesbian History Month. . . Neither did I.


NEW CONTEST!
THE BRUDOG HAVEN'S "GLBT HISTORY" CONTEST!

Best GLBT history fact wins the opportunity to become my next profile photo (that is, if the winner doesn't mind their pic on the web). Submit your entries using the comments link for this post.

Official Contest Rules:
-No purchase necessary to enter or win.
-The BRUDOG HAVEN'S "GLBT HISTORY" CONTEST is open only to friends and family of THE FOLLOWSPOT BLOGGER NETWORK who are 18 years or older. By entering, you agree to these "Official Rules" and that the decision of the judge (me) are final and binding in all respects.
-No limit on number of entries.
-Odds of winning depend on the number of eligible entries received
-Acceptance of the prize constitutes permission for BruDog Haven to use winner's first name and to use winner's photo or likeness as it's official profile photo.
-Contest ends Sunday, October 14,2007 at midnight. Winner to be announced shortly after.
-Have fun!

Sunday, September 30, 2007

The Perfect Gift

Hey Mark! I found the perfect Christmas gift for you. Check out the Self-Portrait Camera Extension Arm, straight out of the Hammacher Schlemmer Catalog.

Monday, September 24, 2007

A Splendid Edifice Can Climb

I was asked by the TD at the Lorton Arts Foundation to help build a stage for an upcoming fundraiser featuring Baryshnikov. Of course I said yes. Well, after two days of building, which included a layer of platforms and a layer of cushioned dance floor, this brutha was worn out. I used to do this sort of thing all the time. Back at the West End, I used to carry lumber up and down that little staircase to the shop. I used to work in the shop all day and then run the show after. . . That was a long time ago I guess.

Well, here it is two days later and I'm still a little sore. You have to understand that I've been basically sitting on my butt for the past few years. Without my former theater job, I've been doing nothing.

Now, here's the cool part about the work. Since the facility is a construction site right now, I got to wear a hard hat. I was lookin' all manly. . . and sweaty. . . and dirty. . . and smelly. . .

Monday, September 17, 2007

TOUCHDOWN!

My apologies folks. I haven't posted in a while. I've been caught up in the "Fantasy Football Fever".

Some of you may know that Joey started up a fantasy league named after yours truly, The BruDog Football League. Well, I'm finding that the whole fantasy thing is totally consuming me. I've always been into football, but I found that I end up paying even more attention to it now. With fantasy, you're not necessarily rooting for your favorite team, but for the players on various teams that you have on you're roster. What's even cooler is that you can go onto NFL.com (the site that we use for our fantasy league) and watch your game in progress. Well, actually you're just watching your stats go up and down, but it's very exciting.

Our league consists of Joey, Ryan, Jim, Jim's daughter Dani, Tom H., his son Tadd, Mike (my co-worker), and a couple of phantom owners just to guarantee at least one or two wins for everyone.

I tell you, if you're into football check it out. I think you can still create a team on the NFL website. You won't be able to join our league, but they have public leagues that you can join so you can practice and be ready for The BruDog Football League next season.

BTW, my team name. . . DaBruDoggies of course!

Monday, September 10, 2007

Mark Your Calenders

OH MY GOD! Haven dwellers, guess what's coming to town. I just saw it on TV yesterday. The most exciting thing to come to the area since Stephen R Hayes' performance as Paul Lynde as Harry McAfee. Buy your tickets now for. . .

. . . wait for it . . .

"High School Musical: The Ice Tour", October 17 - 21. That's right the only thing better than High School Musical is High School Musical on ice. Oh, the stands at the Patriot Center will be alive with the sound of "Get'cha Head In The Game" and "We're All In This Together!"

Now, who wants to loan me $75 to get a ticket? I want to be right up close!

By the way, poor Vanessa Hudgens whose nude picture was put online. I feel sorry for her . . . unless it was planned. Hmmm.

Thursday, September 06, 2007

Everyone's A Little Bit Racist

I think this speaks for itself.The non-profit group Marie Stopes International designed and sponsored this poster in 2005 to warn Brits about the dangers of contracting VD while traveling abroad. It was actually posted in public health clinics around Great Britain. Of course, it caused an uproar in the Mexican community.

Sunday, September 02, 2007

Saturday Night At The Movies

I went to the movies last night to see "The Bourne Ultimatum". I didn't have a very enjoyable experience. Don't get me wrong, the movie was great. The theater was not.

I went to the AMC Theatres at Springfield Mall, which obviously hasn't updated it's facilities in a few decades. Unfortunately, this led to a very unpleasant time. I fidgeted the whole time from the uncomfortable seats. My neck hurt because the screen was so high. I had trouble understanding some of the dialogue because the treble coming from the speakers behind the screen (no surround sound) was too high. I could hear the rattling of the speakers from the bass sounds. I could hear the loud projector in the back. And the echo in this place was like the grand canyon.

I guess I've gotten spoiled by the new generation of movie houses because I don't remember being annoyed by all of this years ago. All of that was the norm back when. Now we go to state of the art theaters with stadium seating, lifting armrest, sound absorption panels on the walls, and digital stereo surround sound.

Oh, I forgot to mention that it took me forever to get into the theater because the person who took the tickets, also worked the concession stand.

Tuesday, August 28, 2007

A Couple Of Colourful Ads

Alright, I have to share with you the video files that Ron S. sent me today. Evidently, these have been around for a while. I can't believe I hadn't come across them yet.

I had forgotten that I had posed for those ads.

Sunday, August 26, 2007

As I Go Travelling Down Life's Highway

On my way in to work the other day, I decided to take a detour past my alma mater, T. C. Williams High School. If the name of the school sounds familiar to you, it's the school that the movie "Remember The Titans" is based on.

T.C. is the only high school in Alexandria, VA, and as a result, has a huge student population of almost 2000 (and it's only 10th through 12th grade). So the city decided that the school needed to be expanded. But, instead of just expanding the school, they decided to build a new one next to the old one, which would be torn down. Well, after years of construction, the new school finally opens this fall.

Much like the demolition of the ol' West End Dinner Theatre, I decided that I had to get a couple of pictures of the building before it was demolished. Unlike the West End though, I didn't sneak into the building.

This is what the school looked like before it closed.


This is what it looked like the other day. You can see that they've dug up all the grounds around the school. At this point, if you wanted to get into the school, you would have to climb up to it. Talk about higher education (I stole that joke from Larry B.).




The new school incorporates a "green building" design (check out this WRC news story about the school).


It features many modern building techniques including:
-A 450,000 gallon underground cistern that will collect rainwater from the building's roof and store it for use in toilet flushing, air-conditioning, and irrigation.
-A permanent measurement and verification system that will track water and energy usage. Data collected will be made available to students at the central "dash board" located in the student commons.
-A garden roof that will clean roof run-off before draining to the storm sewer system. This will also provide a living laboratory for students.

It's all very exciting, although it's very sad to see my old school go. So many good and bad memories.

Thursday, August 23, 2007

I Can't Live Without. . .

You know, inspired by Jim's list of "10 things he loves" and Mark's list of "ten things that annoy him", I decided to do a list of my own. My list is. . .

Ten things I can't live without:

10) Dixie Bones BBQ (the meat just falls off the ribs there)

9) My "Center Stage" DVD (the best movie ever, next to "Crimson Tide" that is)

8) Air Conditioning (I love Anita's house because she keeps it on full blast)

7) Big Dogs Sportswear (I gots to have my Big Dog Tees)

6) The Follow Spot Blogger Network (the network of blogs inspired by The Follow Spot)

5) My Laptop (gotta have something to watch DVDs on at work)

4) Pop Secret Homestyle Microwave Popcorn (it really is the best microwave popcorn)

3) Sirius Satellite Radio (worth the $13)

2) Digital Video Recorder (some have TiVo, I have the Comcast version)

1) Cable TV (best invention next to television itself)

Monday, August 20, 2007

Back To High School. . . 2

So, I watched the World Premier of "High School Musical 2". I thought it was really good. I thought the first "High School Musical" was just okay, but oddly enough for some reason I was really looking forward to the second one.
I think the script was much better and more interesting, and I think the plot had a little more depth. . . actually I don't know, it probably was just about the same as the first movie, but for some reason I liked this one better.

I think my favorite song was "I Don't Dance" which involved a great baseball game dance number. There was also a great dance sequence involving basketballs in "What Time Is It". * *SPOILER* * And I love the fact that Ryan finally stands up to Sharpay.

I only had two problems with the movie. The first problem I had was with the studio sound of all the songs. This is a problem I have with many movie musicals (although not all), the obvious switch between the dialogue audio and the studio audio.

The other problem I had was with Vanessa Hudgens as Gabriella. I didn't think she was bad, but I kinda felt like she was just there to look cute and innocent. . . and blank. She kinda reminded me of Linda Ronstadt in "Pirates Of Penzance". Lovely voice, cute, but just. . . well. . . there.

BTW evidently "High School Musical 2" set the record for the most-watched basic cable program ever with an audience of 17.2 million, which doubled the viewership of the original. Among children 6 to 11 and youngsters 9 to 14, two out of three children watching TV were tuned in. Among girl viewers age 6 to 11, it was four out of five. I'm not quite sure where I fit into those numbers. . .

Sunday, August 19, 2007

"Shakin' At The Toby Inn"

So, the other day, after a two hour drive back from Harrisonburg, where I helped my sister move back to college for her sophomore year, I headed out for the hour and a half rush hour drive up to Baltimore to see a little Grease at Toby's. Haven dwellers, let me tell you, it was worth it. If you didn't get a chance to see this show, you missed a treat. Oh, and Mark says you are rude if you didn't see it.

First of all let me say, what really stuck out about the show was how well it was cast. I was impressed with everyone.

I also thought the updates to the show worked. I asked Mark if he had a "gospel consultant" for the "Beauty School Dropout" number, because it rocked the heavens with a new soulful arrangement. And "Your The One That I Want" was a fun change from the usual "All Shook Up" (although I'm a big fan of "All Shook Up").

Stand outs for me included Jamie Eaker as Patty, Jesse Palmer as Frenchy, Tamarin Ythier . . . I mean Lawler as Jan, and Darren McDonnell as Vince (thanks for the shout out). And of course Tina kicked but on ". . .Worse Things. . ."

Thanks to Mark and the whole cast for a very entertaining evening.

Saturday, August 11, 2007

EE I EE I OH

Here are some pics of the rest of the animals I'm tending to this week.

This is an African Grey parrot who likes to get you by lowering it's head like it wants to be petted, then bites you when you get in close.











This is the Green Amazon that I mentioned has gotten crabbier as he's gotten older. As you can see in the picture, I can't reach into the cage without bribing him with a peanut. And even then, I have to use tongs.











No biting from the dog, thankfully. In the second pic, we are playing a game I call "Nice To Meet You". When I am coming up the stairs, she stands at the top and holds out one of her front paws. I shake it, as if shaking hands. Then she puts it down and raises the other one.












And finally, the ducks. I tried to get a picture with all of them in the wading pool, but every time I'd come outside, they would all get out except one.

Tuesday, August 07, 2007

Ol' McBruDog Had A Farm

So, I'm away from home, house sitting this week for my friend Tom and his family's eleven pets. That's right, eleven! Count them: a dog, a rabbit, a guinea pig, 2 parrots, and 6 ducks. They're all pretty easy to handle, although this morning I had to chase the ducks around the yard to get them into their pen, and one of the parrots has gotten crabbier as he's gotten older. Here are a few pics. More to come later in the week.



Monday, August 06, 2007

Meal Or No Meal

Hey I got the one million dollars on "Meal Or No Meal" today!

Post Of The Week

I found what I think is an interesting tale on "The Assimilated Negro". Check it out.

Friday, August 03, 2007

You Can't Stop The Beat

I finally saw "Hairspray" today. I loved it! My face was hurting after the movie from smiling so much. I even shed a tear during the "I Know Where I've Been" number (actually it was two tears). I'll probably end up going to see it again, which I rarely do.

If you haven't seen it yet, GO! Oh, and do like I do and go on a Friday, Saturday, or Sunday morning to an AMC theater. It's only $5.

Tuesday, July 31, 2007

WBRU - BruDog Radio

This next artist is blowing up the internet and the music charts with such hits as "Chocolate Rain", "Internet Dream", "Love", and "Lifetime Limbo", as well as covers of "Never Gonna Give You Up", "House Of The Rising Sun", and "Swing Low Sweet Chariot".

And now, moving up the Broadway charts, here he is with his cover of "Edelweiss", Tay Zonday!

Sunday, July 29, 2007

Feed Me

I went grocery shopping at the Shoppers Food Warehouse on Friday afternoon. I go to the checkout. The cashier bags and rings up my three bags of groceries. I pay. I pick up my three bags of groceries to leave. The cashier says, "Enjoy your lunch!" . . .

Should I take that the wrong way?


Speaking of lunch, I happened upon a website that had pics of old lunch boxes. You know, the ol' metal ones that would rust after a while. Well I happened to find one that I used to have, the Space:1999 lunch box. I don't think I actually watched that show, at least I don't remember watching it. The lunch box must have been either on sale or was a hand-me-down.

So what about you? What fun lunch boxes did you have?

Wednesday, July 25, 2007

Chestnuts Roasting On A BBQ Grill

Anyone who knows me knows that I am a huge fan of Christmas. Former West Enders probably remember the displays that Tom and me did in the green room every year, or my "Black Santa" display backstage. I'm usually one of the first in my neighborhood to put up decorations. But I have to say that I am not a fan of "Christmas In July". I don't get it. Christmas is such a huge part of the year already. Why do we feel the need to add it to another month? For me, Christmas is from December 1st to January 1st. I don't even follow the whole epiphany thing. I'm even OK with decorating right after Thanksgiving. But beyond that, no more Christmas. I get annoyed when I'm shopping in September and see decorations for sale. I even have trouble going into those Christmas shops outside of the season.

Now I'd also like to say that this rant does not reflect on the wonderful "Christmas In July" parties that Caren and Bud throw every year. I've always enjoyed those as an opportunity to have fun with friends old and new. I especially love playing with that furry dog of theirs.

Sunday, July 22, 2007

Turn Off The Lights. . . And Light A Candle

I happened to flip by Nightline the other day and came across a story about a family in New York trying a "No Environmental Impact" lifestyle. They've turned off their circuit breakers, they've stopped using the elevator, they ride a scooter to and from work, and even wash clothes in the bathtub by stomping around the laundry filled water like they are stomping grapes. And for entertainment, they go to the park.

I have to say that I do admire them. They are conserving water and fuel. They are not contributing to the consumption of fossil fuels by not using electricity. They are even getting some quality time together with candlelight dinners and family outings at the park. And one of the child's favorite activities is the laundry stomp. Kudos to them! But you know what? I couldn't do it.

I can't live without my TV. I'd be lost without my car. And there were times in my childhood when we didn't have a washing machine in the house and didn't always have quarters for the laundromat. So I've done the washing clothes by hand thing. I hope to never have to do that again.

I do make my own effort though. I've cut down on extra driving. I reuse the plastic bags from the grocery store. My household has recycling pickup. I even unplug my chargers when they aren't in use. But I don't think I could ever take it to the extreme that this family has. I certainly admire them for it, though.

Wednesday, July 18, 2007

Hey Momma Welcome To The 2000's

I'm excited about the new "Hairspray" movie coming out this Friday, not just because it's one of my favorite musicals, but because I love the fact that Hollywood is putting musicals on film again. But not for the reason you may think.

I like that they are doing musicals on film again because eventually the movie is put on DVD which allows me to watch it anytime I want, as opposed to having to wait for a local theater to produce it. I of course love going and seeing a live musical, but the one problem I've always had is that I can only go and see it once. I could go and see it over and over again, but I don't have that kind of money. Plus, if no theater around me happens to be doing the musical, I'm SOL. Now unless a movie musical is horribly done, I'll buy the DVD for the opportunity to see it anytime I want.

I'm really looking forward to "Hairspray". So much so that I am almost worried that I'll be disappointed because it isn't good. BTW I'm a huge fan of the original movie also.

Saturday, July 14, 2007

Addictive Commercials

I was visiting a friend in Baltimore today and caught this commercial.

WARNING: Audio may not be suitable for office speakers or young ears.

Tuesday, July 10, 2007

Not So Fast, Save Some Gas

I've been a speeder ever since I first got my license. My last speeding ticket, which was about ten years ago, was for driving 87 in a 55 mph zone. But gas prices these days have caused me to change my ways.

To save money and gas, I've slowed down on the highway, which I've found actually makes a difference. I generally do 60 now (or five above whatever the posted speed limit is). What's funny is that most people around me on the highway don't do the same. There I am in the right lane chugging along while everyone is flying by. Now there are a few others in that right lane also driving slower, but not many. Sometimes I feel like an old man on a Sunday drive. And I think it's funny that I feel like I'm going slow at 6o mph.

I thought the new added violation fees here in Virginia (as much as $1050 for reckless driving, which that 87 mph ticket would have fallen under) would slow people down, but that hasn't necessarily happened.

Friday, July 06, 2007

Post Of The Week

I came across this post at "The Assimilated Negro" blog. It cracked me up, but I don't think most of the readers who left comments got the humor.

Check out
Yeah, But How Come They Never Shoot Off Any Black Fireworks?

Thursday, July 05, 2007

Walkin' In A Summer Wonderland

So, I'm at home yesterday, standing outside watering the front lawn, when all of a sudden I hear music. I realize that the music is coming from an ice cream truck in the neighborhood. I recognize the tune, but I can't think of what it is. Then it hits me. "Jingle Bells". Yes the chimes on ice cream truck were playing "Jingle Bells" followed by "Silent Night" and then "O Come All Ye Faithful". After the three Christmas songs, it started playing non holiday songs.

At first I thought that maybe they forgot to change the music for the summer season, but then what ice cream truck sells ice cream in December.

Tuesday, July 03, 2007

Gotta Get Something Off My Chest

I was reading the other day about Isaiah Washington, the actor who was fired from the show "Grey's Anatomy" for using an anti-gay slur. Evidently, he feels that he was fired because he is "a 6-foot-1, black man with dark skin and who doesn't go around saying 'Yessah, massa sir' and 'No sir, massa' to everyone?", and that some people on the set are scared of him because of it.

Well I have something to say. I've really lost all respect for this guy. I was already annoyed with him when it came out that he used the epithet, but the racial thing really got me going. He uses a gay slur but thinks that it's wrong that he's fired because he's Black (not that I believe he was fired for that). Besides, two of the characters (the chief of surgery and the surgeon that teaches the interns) are played by Blacks. And one of the interns is played by an Asian. The creator of the show is Black. And you know what? I'd be a little scared of a cast member who started a fight on the set.

As Tina would say, "Ugh!"

Thursday, June 28, 2007

O H M Y G O D !

I've waited six long years for this day. The Spice Girls have announced that they are getting back together. Yes haven dwellers, I was a Spice Girls fan. Yes I own the Spice CD. Yes I own the Spice World Soundtrack. Yes I saw the Spice World movie in an empty theater. Yes I own the Spice World movie. Now I didn't actually buy the Spice World movie, my friend Ray bought it for me from the discount bin at the ol' Video Palace that used to be next to the West End.

Favorite Spice Girl: Scary
Favorite Song: Say You'll Be There
Self-Proclaimed Spice Name: Chocolate Spice

Favorite Video: