Boy in Suit

www.boyinsuit.com

2006-07-05T18:10:00.000-07:00

Announcing a BIG MOVE!

Blogger has been wonderful to me for the past two years that I've kept this blog. While still an excellent product, I've decided to move to my own domain name, www.boyinsuit.com.

Not only will my new site be easier to remember (no "blogspot"), it will have additional features that make reading my blog (and writing it) more enjoyable.

I hope you like my new site!

Thanks,
Jesse

Las Vegas Day 2

2006-06-26T16:50:00.000-07:00

Brian and I went to Planet Hollywood to register our Las Vegas Power Pass. It's a card that you buy that gets you into lots of different attractions. After we got the card, we made a schedule that filled our day.

2:30pm Hilton Star Trek the Experience

This was definitely a must-see for Star Trek fans like Brian and I. We spent about an hour in the museum part reading everything. We first went on the Klingon ride that we went on about 2 years ago. It was still so much fun! Then we went on the Borg 4-D ride that was amazing! I love Star Trek!

5:30pm Mirage Dolphins

This was pretty cool. I've never been very close to dolphins and it was cool to see them. Brian even saw one of them pee!

6:30pm Venetian Wax museum

I didn't expect this place to be as much fun as it was. I had an absolute blast! It was cool that the museum provided props for pictures. Brian and I laughed many times in here.

7:30pm Luxor IMAX Ride

We saw "Search for the Obelisk" and it was really lame. Plus, it the ride jerked us around in an unfun way.

8:30pm Dinner

I was craving Italian, so we stopped at a place that looked good. The food was really good but the service was terrible. It took them five minutes to seat us in an empty restaurant. Then we waited 10 minutes before anyone came over to greet us. The waiter gave Brian a Pepsi instead of a Diet Pepsi. Brian wasn't going to say anything, but when the waiter came by, I told him to bring a diet. Since Brian paid, I don't remember how much of a tip we left.

9:30pm New York, New York Rollercoaster

Although everything we had done today paid for itself (it was cheaper to do everything by buying a powerpass), we had to go on this rollercoaster. We waited in line for awhile, but it was okay. Not having been on a rollercoaster for a long time, the first drop really scared me. I've never been scared before and I think it's just because I'm out of practice.

Yes, it was early, but both Brian and I decided that it was time to go to bed. We were going to play at Circus Circus until midnight, but we were both exhausted and wanted to sleep.

Instead of giving us a queen or king, our room has two full beds. Because Brian took up most of the room last night, I decided to sleep in the other bed. I thought it was pretty funny that on our vacation, we slept in separate beds.

Las Vegas Vacation (Sales Pitch)

2006-06-26T16:44:00.000-07:00

The only reason that Brian and I came to Vegas was because I "won" a free vacation. When I went to Canada in April, I called Avis to rent a car. After I made my reservation, they told me that I was eligible for a free vacation from Fairfield Resorts.

Yes, Brian and I went to a timeshare presentation this morning. (Wipe that smile off your face and don't roll your eyes!)

When we first got there, they sat us in a room where we filled out some information. They had a referral program, so to be funny, Brian and I put the names of some of our friends to be contacted. Soon, they will probably receive a call!

We met Jeff and he offered us food and drink before sitting at a small table with us. He was really nice and used great sales techniques. He got to know us, joked with us, got us excited about vacations, and made us feel really comfortable with him. He told us all the great advantages to owning a timeshare and showed us why we couldn't live without one.

When Jeff asked Brian if he had a girlfriend, Brian looked at me, patted me on the shoulder and said, "This is my girlfriend." We all laughed.

We watched a video of current timeshare owners who said, "We went to the presentation because of the free vacation. We weren't going to buy anything, but when we saw all the advantages to owning a timeshare, we knew we had to have one."

After the video, Jeff took us to the Fairfield Resort just off the strip. It was so nice! The "cheapest" room had a living room and kitchen. Then we saw the penthouse... Let's just say that someday, I want to be able to only stay in penthouses in hotels because they are so incredible.

When we came back from our field trip, I plainly told Jeff that everything we saw today was incredible but we weren't ready to commit lots of money to vacation. He said, "Well, I haven't shown you the numbers. How can you say that you can't afford this?" Instead of backing me up, Brian laughed and agreed with him. Jeff got up and had another guy come over and show us how affordable owing a timeshare could be.

While Jeff was gone, I asked Brian if I killed the mood. He said I did and said that I should have waited. I didn't want to wait and spend more time with Jeff thinking he's going to make a sale. I was just trying to me nice.

The man Jeff brought over asked if we lived together and we told him yes. I don't remember how it came up, but we told him we were gay. Jeff looked surprised and later told us he didn't know we were gay. He asked how long we were together and if living in Salt Lake is hard. We told him that since we're not big flamy faggots, we don't get any grief for it.

We used the "we're both going to law school next year and will have lots of debt" excuse for not buying and that seemed to work well. It afforded us the luxury to say, "In 4 years, we'll be making way more money and owning a timeshare will be possible."

Once Jeff and the guy knew we weren't going to buy anything, they thanked us for our time and had a customer service guy come to us to survey us about the presentation. After a few questions, he said, "Now I can offer you something special that you haven't seen yet." He basically offered us a ten day stay in Hawaii for $2000. We kindly said no, and Brian later told me he was really, really tempted to say yes at that moment.

Brian and I walked out of there feeling badly, but proud that we said no. Brian's boss, Perry, told Brian before we left that he's never met anyone who has not come back from a timeshare presentation without a timeshare. One of the reasons that it was so easy to say no was because Perry challenged us to say no.

Owning a timeshare is a big investment. The cheapest package we could get would cost $10,000 for 7 days at a Fairfield Resort. If I had the money, I would totally do it because it's actually a really good idea. You get 7 days for the rest of your life and you can give the timeshare to your children. Theoretically, you pay $10,000 and you get one week vacation for the rest of your life.

Was I sold on timeshares? Yes, absolutely. Brian and I are going to go on more presentations to get free vacations until we can buy a timeshare to travel. Seriously, its the way to go.

Driving to Vegas

2006-06-25T15:46:00.000-07:00

I felt sick on the drive down to Vegas but felt better toward the end of the day. We stopped and got Subway sandwiches in Provo and Brian made a big deal about them not having Swiss cheese. The worker told us that all Subway's in Provo do not carry Swiss cheese.

The only major traffic we encountered was coming over the mountain into Vegas. We waited for about an hour and at 6pm, Brian realized that Vegas is one hour behind. We changed our clocks and I told Brian, "We went back in time!"

At 6pm Vegas time, I said, "We've only been in traffic for an hour!" Brian wasn't amused.

We finally got to the Imperial Palace where I checked in. We went to the Cheesecake Factory for dinner (mostly because Time magazine had an article on the restaurant).

So Brian and I are in Vegas on our first vacation together and what do we do after dinner? We go to bed because we are so tired. We felt like old men because it was still early.

Consequences

2006-06-25T13:44:00.000-07:00

When I woke up this morning, I walked down the stairs to go to the bathroom. Instead of peeing first, I threw up. I went back to bed.

I woke up an hour later and tried to sit up, but I got dizzy and sick so I laid back down. The most comfortable position was on my back and I tried to stay there. Brian got up to make breakfast and brought me some waffles. Even though I ate half of one waffle, I felt so sick. I laid back down and tried to rest.

I usually don't get hangovers, but that streak of luck is over. I realized that the last time I drank I threw up because I drank too much. When I told Brian, he called me an alcoholic. I told Brian that I wouldn't ever drink again (a drunk's song), then revised that and said I will always have a one drink maximum.

Brian was really upset because we were supposed to leave for Vegas at 8am. It was about 10am when I finally got out of bed. Brian called me from downstairs to take a shower and as I walked down the stairs, my waffle came up. I sat there for about five minutes regretting drinking so much and then I was fine. Russell, instead of asking if he could help, laughed at me and mocked me by saying, "Consequences!"

At 11am (3 hours after Brian wanted to leave), we got into the truck and drove to Provo. Once we dropped Russell and Jennie off, we started driving to Las Vegas.

HRC Dinner

2006-06-24T15:34:00.000-07:00

Going to a nice event takes a lot of preparation. You have to wear nice clothes, have nice hair, and get ready to talk to nice people and not-so-nice people and be friendly.

Normally, I cut my own hair but I didn't have time today (nor the last time before the Jefferson-Jackson dinner). It saves so much time and feels so good to have someone else cut my hair.

I picked up Megan at her house ("What happened to your hair?!") and we went to Fashion Place mall to pick up a few items to complete my outfit. When I went shopping with Megan earlier this week, I wrote that I only bought a shirt. In actuality, I bought a new suit! I wasn't going to, but when I walked into Express for Men and saw cute suits, I knew that I needed to buy a new one. Needless to say, I bought more than a cute shirt at Nordstrom Rack.

Unfortunately, the cute shirt I bought necessitated cuff links and I didn't have any (though when I got to the mall and saw Brian, he reminded me that we actually had them). I also needed a belt and a tie.

Megan and I went to Dillards and I had a great time picking out clothes and dressing at the same time. I picked out a really cute belt and Megan found some nice cuff links. It took us awhile to find a tie that would match, but Megan found the perfect one! If politics doesn't work out for her, she should do men's fashion cause she's really good.

Brian thought I looked really good and I'm glad he did. He wasn't as mad at me for spending $139 on a new suit because I looked so hot! Haha...

Getting ready in Dillards

Brian helps me with my cufflinks

On the drive down to Bruce Bastian's mansion, I was most excited about dancing. I haven't been dancing since Mexico and I really want to get my groove on. Last year, the dancing at the HRC event was my favorite part!

When we first got there to register, the guest speaker of the night, Rt. Rev. Gene Robinson, was thanking volunteers for the work they were doing. I thought that was very classy and later told him so when we finally met. As we were talking, I realized what a great man he is and knew that he was doing God's work. I had a good feeling in my soul as I talked to him and am glad that I was lucky enough to meet him.

Me and Gene Robinson

I had a VIP wristband (because of course I'm a Very-Important-Person) so I was able to enjoy the comforts of being a VIP (free drinks). The last time I had any alcohol was in Mexico, so I thought I could drink some tonight. Unfortunately, too much of a good thing can be bad. I had four drinks before dinner.

After the reception stopped serving drinks, I walked around outside to meet and greet people. I had such a blast! I saw lots of people I knew and met some new friends.

I sat at a table with Senator Scott McCoy and others. I sat next to Xander Gordon, a guy I never thought I'd be sitting at a table with ever again. He dated one of my old roommates, Ty Mortensen, and was a complete jerk. In talking to him, I realized that things haven't changed.

The HRC Dinner

"The" HRC Dinner

Two glasses of wine later, the night started to blend together. I called Russell to see if he could drive Megan and I home, but he said that he was already in Salt Lake. I text messaged Brian to ask if he could pick us up and he only got upset because I drank too much.

Everything would have been worth it if there was dancing, but there wasn't. I was really disappointed that instead of dancing, I had to walk around and talk with people again. Sure, it's fun, but I'd much rather be dancing to disco music like last year.

I needed to sober up, so Josh Moon walked me around and got me coffee. The walk was nice but the coffee was gross. I drank two and later realized that it was a bad idea.

The end of the night.

Megan wasn't drunk so she drove my car home. Before we got on the freeway, she pulled over and allowed me to throw-up. I got back into the car and fell asleep. When I got home, I went straight to bed.

Helping Someone Move

2006-06-24T15:32:00.000-07:00

I helped my friends Stacie and Bert move this morning and even had the truck to be extra helpful! It was a pretty easy move as they were really prepared. I just wish they had rented a U-haul or something cause it makes it a lot easier (and you don't have to make multiple trips).

When Brian and I moved, I noticed that most people left after the first trip. That's why it's important to get a large enough truck to load everything because you'll have the most help.

Stacie and Bert moved to Herriman which was really far from their nice east side Salt Lake location. That said, Herriman is a very nice place and they're lucky to be there. Even though it's fine, I wouldn't mind moving there (though my friends probably wouldn't visit cause I don't reimburse for gas even for West Valley).

The funny part of helping them was that Bert was supposed to drive a car in the Pride parade for me. He never returned my call so basically bailed on me. I told him that the main reason I was helping him move was to make him feel badly for ditching me at the last minute (though I was only kidding).

Fun Friday Night

2006-06-23T15:29:00.000-07:00

I had to go to an AFL-CIO for Ross since he's out of town. It was supposed to be a bbq, but Ed Mayne (President of the union in Utah) talked and talked and talked and talked. I got to the event at 4:45pm and had to leave at 5:30pm because Titus needed to be let out.

Brian and I made an appointment with a kitchen designer at Home Depot since we are replacing all the cabinets. At first, Brian didn't want anyone to help us because he just wanted to replace the existing cabinets with the exact same cabinets. I convinced him that it would be beneficial to talk to someone before we start to see if anything extra could be done.

It's a good thing we went because the designer gave us some ideas of extra things we can do with our kitchen space.

After Home Depot, I went over to Wendy's house to mow her lawn. I really didn't want to (as it was Friday night), but it had to be done. It only took me 45 minutes to mow and bag and I was proud of myself for getting out of there so quickly.

Utah Arts Festival

2006-06-22T19:26:00.000-07:00

The Utah Arts Festival started today and I'm so glad that I went. Not only was it cool to see lots of different art, I bought two things that really got my attention.

The first one I can't talk about yet.

The second one is pictured here:

Brian and I thought it looked like Titus so we had to have it. It's going to hold our keys and will be really cute to display.

Me and Brian with Titus and Metal Titus

All photos here.

Our Softball Team

2006-06-21T18:00:00.000-07:00

In May, Brian and I signed up to play on a softball league. We haven't been going because we've both been really busy on the house and with Pride. Now that our schedules have freed up, we are able to finally go and have fun.

Honestly, I was really hesitant to go because I haven't played softball in years (besides that one time last year). I was nervous that I'd look like an idiot and be reminded of all those years that I played right field and played more with the grass than the ball. I didn't tell Brian how I was feeling cause I didn't want to seem weak.

When I got there, I met other members of my team. Again, self-doubt kicked in because these guys seemed like they knew what they were doing.

However, after my first swing at the bat, all those feelings disappeared. On my first swing, I made a pretty good hit that established that I wasn't a weenie. It felt really good to actually do well that I'm not traditionally good at. I had a great time, especially played catcher, a position that I've never played. It was fun because I was always doing something (as opposed to an outfielder where you stand there for awhile before you see any action).

The only teasing that I received was Megan, Brian, and Ellie teasing me because I throw like a girl. I disagree as I was focusing on my target and usually threw pretty well. There's one picture that shows how I throw, but I didn't put it here. If you want to find it, go to my flickr set from tonight.

All pictures here.

My Emasculation

2006-06-21T13:16:00.000-07:00

My friend Ashley (who I met at BYU) is coming to visit in August. She is going to be moving back here and I'm so excited! I haven't seen her in four years and I can't wait to see her, her kids, and spend more time with her. At BYU, we were inseparable and many people thought we were dating (which made us both laugh).

I asked Barbara, the woman at work who is in charge of time off, if I could get the week of August 7th off.

Barbara: Does Brian know about this?
Jesse: Huh? Why does that matter?
Barbara: Because he's the man and should know if you aren't working.
Jesse: No, he doesn't know because I haven't told him yet.
Barbara: Just like that other thing you haven't told him. I see how it is.
Jesse: Oh, c'mon. Can I have that time off?
Barbara: I need to speak to Brian first. I'll give it to you only if I have his permission. He needs to call me.

I thought it was really funny (even though I'm the more "powerful" one in the relationship--ask Titus!)

Shopping with Purpose

2006-06-20T19:16:00.000-07:00

This Saturday is the 2nd Annual Human Rights Campaign Gala Dinner and is being held at Bruce Bastian's mansion in Orem. I went to the first one and had an absolute blast!

Tonight, Megan and I went shopping for outfits for Saturday. Last night, Brian and I had an argument about shopping because he doesn't want me to spend a lot on clothing when we have a house to renovate. I told him that I needed a new outfit because I don't have any pants that fit me (my waist is now a 31-32 instead of 33-34) and I want a new, cute shirt. I told him that I wouldn't spend anymore than $50.

After going to a fundraiser for Nate Hendricks, candidate who is running for County Council District 5 (who is very nice and I hope wins) Megan and I went to South Town Mall to visit Brian and go to Nordstroms. Everything was way too expensive, so we left and went to Nordstrom's Rack. I found a cute shirt there that I bought and tried on a few suits (since I need a new one).

Talking to Scott for fashion advice.

Me trying to be stylish

After Nordstrom's Rack, we went to Chico's where we found this really cute skirt for Megan. I'm not very good at shopping for women, but when I see something I like, I do pretty well.

Megan is Hawt!

Brian is Hawt!

2006-06-20T12:41:00.000-07:00

Megan: you need to take more pictures of brian in other shirts than his work shirts. people might think he never wears anything else.

Jesse: he wears other clothes?

There's a klepto in our house

2006-06-20T09:53:00.000-07:00

Image Brian and I saw this morning:

Titus laying on the floor with Brian's wallet to the right of his mouth and $6 to the left of his mouth.

I thought we spoiled him enough, but now he's resorting to stealing. Is there a 10-step program for dogs?

Being Dumb

2006-06-19T16:22:00.000-07:00

I love when my boyfriend is so awesome! I called Brian at 5:15pm to ask him to start making dinner and his response was, "Already working on it. The potatoes are cooking right now."

Brian made really good shepherd's pie for dinner. He left the skins in them and it added that "something" that made it better than I've ever tasted.

After dinner, we went to Lowes to get some help designing our kitchen. The designer wasn't there so we went to Home Depot. The designer was busy with other customers, and after 15 minutes of waiting, we left.

I hate that we didn't make an appointment and wasted a good night by being stupid.

Drama with Dominique

2006-06-19T11:30:00.000-07:00

I always find it amusing when I write about someone on my blog and they find out. This time it was Dominique and she found my blog by googling my name (for what reason, I do not know).

If you missed it, here is what she said in response to this post:

Too chicken shit to bring this directly to me, little boy?

Am I so powerful that someone actually copied and pasted from a Lesbian group my entire post and distributed it throughout your kingdom?

Are you all so frightened by my words that you cower in your little blogs and pretend to be all powerful?

As for first hand knowledge... I've been included in several pride celebrations. I know the frustrations of organizing and the thankless job it is. Precisely why I commented on how every leadership change that I have seen, four since 1998, has refused or ignored suggestions from past organizers.

I stand by my comments that your actions were incredibly insensitive, bordering on hostile.

Instead of bristling your burrs (all y'all organizers who took my words so deeply personal) and defending yourselves by attacking my person, perhaps you should actually listen to so many of the people who were absolutely mortified by your police action.

It is for THEM that Pride is organized. Not for your self agrandisement.

I honestly laughed when I first read it and immediatly texted Megan. I've never understood why people send mean emails/letters to people that they are mad at. It always makes them sound like a mean person even if they are not. I think Dominique is a nice person, but this email really puts her in a bad light.

Whenever I'm upset at someone and want to tell them, I write an email/letter to get everything off my chest. Then I put the letter somewhere and never send it to them.

I responded in the nicest way possible:

Dominique,

I have to laugh. Using my blog as a forum for your frustration is ridiculous as it's my personal blog. Sure, you can "defend" yourself, but at least do it in a way that dignifies yourself.

Using words like, "little boy" and "your kingdom" make you sound like you are the one on the power trip.

As for being a "chicken shit" for not going to directly to you and using personal attacks, it was you who called me an "arrogant" organizer initiating a "police action" and complaining about it on a lesbian forum (your "kingdom"). I was merely commenting on my blog about comments made about me.

I do appreciate your comments about getting people out of the park on Saturday. I may have been a tad insensitive as you said, but I also had been on the site the whole day. Instead of being rude, you could have understood where I was coming from. I understand where you are coming from and if it ever happens again, I will be kinder in helping people leave.

Contrary to your belief, I did not take your comments personal in any way. If you are familiar with my blog (and I assume you are not), it acts as my journal where I write all my thoughts, not just my guarded ones. If I really took it personally, I would have said so.

Honestly, there was no "self aggrandizement" in coordinating volunteers for Pride. If I wanted to do that, I would have asked you where you got the green volunteer tshirt you were wearing. I know you did not volunteer with Pride and I can only assume you took one because you thought youÂd look good in lime green.

Yours,
Jesse

I ran it by Brian to make sure I was being nice and not rude. I wanted the last paragraph to be funny and I think I achieved that (because my first draft was rude). I never thought she'd respond, but she did:

actually, i worked in the beer garden taking id's and selling tickets for 3 hours... next to the county building. i went in the Trina... because I didn't want another confrontation with you. i would have paid for a ticket rather than have to talk to you, but trina walked me in... after asking your permission. i'm sure you were overwhelmed and didn't even notice. the line checking in was rather long at the time. it was right after the parade. i'll gladly give you the shirt back. i have volunteered in one way or another every year since 2001. i certainly dont need another shirt. i volunteered with sWerve. i was on THEIR list, if not on yours

When I read her response, I quickly looked at the sWerve list because I could have been wrong and would have apologized. However, her name was not on the list so I stand by my original comment. I have no doubt that she did volunteer because many people volunteered at the last minute.

This all brings me to a column in the Salt Lake Tribune that relates to my correspondence with Dominique.

People, no matter who they are addressing, should always be nice.

Father's Day

2006-06-18T20:30:00.000-07:00

I called my father today wishing him a happy Father's day. I feel badly because he always gets the short stick on days like this. For his birthday, Christmas, and Father's day, the most he ever gets is socks, work pants, work shirts, and maybe (if he's lucky) new shoes.

I feel even more badly because I didn't send him a present or a card. When I talked to him on the phone, I said, "Dad, I haven't sent your present because I didn't want Mom to find out that you got a present on Father's day and I still have Mom's present on my kitchen table." He laughed and said, "Rrrrright."

I think I'm lucky that I have a Dad like I do and have a great relationship with him. Many people (especially gay guys) aren't close to their dad as I am with mine. If I'm contemplating a big decision, I always talk to my Dad about it for his thoughts. If I'm nervous about something, talking to my Dad helps me out because he has so much confidence in me.

That's one thing that I love about my Dad--he thinks I'm the greatest. I always feel very important when I'm talking to him and I know he's proud of me.

I also love the example that my Dad is to me. If I had to describe my dad in three words, I would say honest, giving, and caring.

My Dad is the most honest man I know and I think I've learned to be honest more from him than any other person. When in times of doubt, I can always ask myself what my father would do and make the right decision.

Dad also gives of his time to anyone who asks of it (I think that's why I'm such a great mover). He's full of stories of him helping less fortunate people. Especially where my family lives now (poor area of upstate New York), many people ask my Dad for help and he always provides it.

One of the stories that I will probably tell about my Dad at his funeral is about how caring he is, especially toward those people that no one cares for. (As I write this, I tear up because it shows how great my Dad is). There was a kid in my Dad's high school that was friends with nobody except my Dad named "John". John was very poor, had terrible social skills, and was not attractive, yet my Dad saw the godliness in him. Today, John has grown into the same kind of adult and my father is still his friend. I think my Dad told me one time that he saw John as an adult and said, "Lindsay, you are my only friend."

Because of my father, I'm more honest, giving, and caring and try very hard to live up to my father's name.

I wish everyone had a father like mine. Mine never abused me, always loved me, always said he loved me, and gave me someone to look up to and model my life after.

Confidential to Dad: Happy Father's Day Dad. I love you very much!

Mckenna's birthday party

2006-06-18T19:27:00.000-07:00

I went to Chuck-e-Cheese's tonight for Mckenna's birthday party. It brought back lots of memories, though I remember that when my 7th birthday was at the restaurant, it seemed to be bigger and cooler.

I did have a fun time playing car and snowmobile games with Brian, and an even more fun time climbing the "Sky Tubes" with Scott (even though you have to be shorter than 42 inches). Crawling through the tubes brought back many memories of playing hide and seek and I just kept laughing and laughing with Scott. They were fun as a kid, but now as an adult, they hurt my knees.

Confidential to Megan: Yes, I mistakenly didn't get any pictures of Mckenna, but I wasn't the only one that held the camera.

Me being a "big fan" of the cheesester!

Scott being naughty.

Brian and me racing each other!

Scott and I being tubular!

All photos can be seen here.

Titus' Day at the BoyinSuit Spa

2006-06-18T16:44:00.000-07:00

I don't have any pictures (which would have been really cute), but I gave Titus a haircut and a bath today.

He needed a haircut and I wasn't about to pay someone $27 to do it (especially since I don't pay people to cut my hair!). Titus was really hard to keep still and wanted to get away, so I have to bribe him with treats.

The bath was easier. At first, I tried using the hose outside and he ran away from me. There was no way he was going to bath in cold water. When I switched to our bathtub, it looked like he enjoyed it. The nice thing is that it was relatively easy to do and only took about 20 minutes. I think I'm going to bathe him every 2 weeks since he is a dog and rolls around in the dirty lawn.

When we were finished, he looked like a million bucks! He's so cute! Here's a video (yes, crappy quality but at least we have one) of Brian and Titus singing to each other:

Pride Volunteer Appreciation BBQ

2006-06-17T21:22:00.000-07:00

Tonight I hosted the annual Pride Volunteer Appreciation BBQ.

While it wasn't supposed to start until 6pm, one volunteer arrived early (Gary, the guy who hit on my last year and made me really uncomfortable).

The whole event went off about the same as last year. Less people came this year, but I really didn't care. I have lots of food and, just like last year, we'll be having BBQ's for our friends all summer using the food that I bought.

Megan and I with our fabulous cake!

Brian at the barbecue cooking delicious hamburgers!

The party (and what a "party" it was!)

Titus and Brian

Me feeding chocolate to Titus! (Joke!!!!)

Sexy Jesse

Scott with a mouthful.

Shawn with cheese on his back. Haha! Take that Vegan!

My filthy car! I'm only putting this picture here to show what a pig I am! This picture was actually taken as a mistake.

Titus rests after a long day.

All photos are here.

Being Considerate

2006-06-17T09:07:00.000-07:00

In the fall of 2002, I lived with my grandparents because I left BYU and didn't have anywhere to go. I knew that asking them if I could live with them would be huge and wanted to make sure they said yes. I came up with a list of rules for myself and gave it to them, promising that I would follow all of them. Some of the items were setting a curfew, helping with housework, and always letting them know where I was going and who I was going with.

When I left in January 2003, I could tell that they would miss me. I had been really good to them by cleaning the house, keeping my room clean, and even buying a shower curtain and bathmats in the downstairs bathroom to make it look nice.

While I consider all of the things I did as requisite for any long-term guest, I did them because I love them alot.

Currently, my cousin Ryan lives with them and is almost a complete opposite of me in how he treats them. Ryan has lived with them for about two years and is a complete bum. He comes and goes as he pleases, doesn't come home sometimes, and doesn't contribute towards keeping the house clean.

On Sunday's, people in my family make and bring dinner to my grandparents so they don't have to cook. I don't know if Ryan has ever offered to make them dinner, but I highly doubt it. I've heard from family members that when they bring food over for the grandparents, Ryan treats himself to it.

Why am I going on a rant about how inconsiderate my cousin is?

My grandparents have four lawns in each direction that have to be mowed every week. Now if I lived with them, I would consider it my duty to mow them. Unfortunately, Ryan doesn't and spends his time gallivanting around town and ignoring the necessities that my grandparents need. Because he won't do it, my Aunt Louise came up with a calendar of family members who offered to mow it.

Today, I went over to do the work that Ryan should be doing. I was happy to do it and am glad I can help my grandparents, but I'm mad that the person who should be doing it is not.

I brought Titus along with me and he had fun exploring their yard (especially peeing on every tree!). He's such a good dog that everytime I couldn't see him, I whistled for him and he came running.

It took me two hours to mow the whole lawn! It was nice, though, that I got a tan.

Grandma called me later in the day to thank for mowing the lawn. When I said, "Thanks for letting me do it!", she said, "You are so nice to say that. I love you very much."

Sure, it may annoy me that Ryan doesn't mow the lawn, but I bet he doesn't hear "I love you" from his Grandma as much as I do.

Titus can Poop!

2006-06-17T08:09:00.000-07:00

Titus has a pooping problem.

He usually poops inside the house rather than outside where he is supposed to go. Whenever Brian and I walk downstairs, we've gotten into the habit of looking into both rooms to check for small droppings. When we do find them, we yell for Titus--he doesn't come though. He's hiding because he knows what he did was wrong.

It really annoys Brian, yet I'm glad he poops rather than pees in the house. I guess I'm just being optimistic.

I took Titus to Petsmart today to get a leash for him and browsed a potty-training book while I was in line. I think Brian and I may have contributed to Titus' pooping problem.

When a dog poops on the carpet, you should never yell, "No!" It teaches a dog that pooping is bad. If you instead say, "Outside!", it teaches the dog that pooping is an outdoor activity.

Brian and I always yelled, "No!" to Titus and that's probably why he doesn't poop outside when we take him out. From now on, we're going to work on saying "Outside!" instead.

Envelopes and banana bread

2006-06-16T21:16:00.000-07:00

Ross is hosting a fundraiser at Aristo's Greek Restaurant on June 28th. For the past week, I've been trying to get ahold of the owner, Aristo, to confirm the date so I can send out invitations.

Ross has been getting on my case about it and the date is coming up very soon, so I decided that I needed to have Aristo call me today.

I called the restaurant at 11:45am (the best time to reach Aristo) and was told that he wasn't available but was in the restaurant. I told the person on the phone that I needed him to call me within the next hour.

An hour passed, so I called again and received a promise that Aristo would call me by 5pm.

At 4:45pm, I called the restaurant again. The person on the phone said that they were sorry and they were trying to get him to call me. I told the person that it was extremely important for me to talk to Aristo since I needed to print out invitations and mail them in a timely manner. I told him that I had to have Aristo call me in the next 15 minutes because the invitations were going to print.

An hour later, I call again and the guy who I spoke to before apologized. I told him that Aristo could call me at any time tonight--I just needed a confirmation!

At 6:15pm, Aristo called and confirmed the date of the fundraiser. I didn't tell him how annoyed I was because at that point, I was exhausted more than annoyed. Because the date is so soon, we stuffed envelopes tonight with invitations and I'm taking them to the Post Office tomorrow.

I love having friends who are willing to help me out with this! Ben, the intern for the Ross Romero Campaign, was awesome as he gave up his Friday night to help (in fact, he ran around town all day running errands for me--I felt badly!).

Me stuffing envelopes

Scott and Brian working together.

All photos from tonight are here.

Vegan Banana Bread

2006-06-16T20:48:00.000-07:00

I was at Wal*Mart tonight shopping for a few items to prepare dinner for everyone who was coming over to help with the envelope stuffing. Now West Valley isn't known for being classy, but you'd think that the citizens might work hard to destroy the image of trashiness.

I wish I had my camera, but there was a guy in the Wal*Mart who shopped with no shirt. It was weird and gross and weird at the same time. I really need to get a camera phone!

While at Wal*Mart, I called Brian to see what I should make for dinner. Shawn was coming over and Brian asked if we were going to accommodate him. Shawn is a vegan and it's hard to cook something that he will enjoy with everyone else. I told Brian that no, Shawn can fend for himself cause he's a weird vegan. Then Brian convinced me that I should be nice and find something to cook. I decided on Frito Pie.

I called Shawn to see if he could eat Fritos and he said he could. When I told him I was trying to accommodate him, he said, "Oh, thanks! You guys are so great cause you try to cook things that I can also eat." I told him that it was Brian who deserved the thanks.

After we stuffed the envelopes, we made banana bread (just like last year so it's tradition). It was lots of fun. Shawn even made his own vegan banana bread.

Brian and Megan with the good banana bread mix.

Give and Take

2006-06-16T07:34:00.000-07:00

When I lived in Mexico, I grew out my facial hair because of a bet I had with my roommate Austin. I became so accustomed to not shaving that I still don't shave everyday. I only shave when I have to look presentable or when it gets too long (about 2 weeks).

This nonchalant attitude towards looking nice drives Brian up the wall! He thinks I look like an ugly Mexican when I don't shave (I don't deny that) and says I'm unattractive with it on my face (no argument from me). He especially doesn't like to kiss me with all the stubble.

I was thinking about it and realized that if the situation were reversed, he would do it for me. Brian can mow a lawn because I ask him to, yet I can't simply shave for him (especially since one is much easier than the other)?

I can be a bad boyfriend sometimes and not shaving is an action that stems from that. I told Brian this morning that I will try to shave more often so I can be a better boyfriend.

My Incredible Boyfriend

2006-06-15T13:10:00.000-07:00

When I text messaged Brian, "What are you doing right now?", his reply was "I'm going to Wendy's."

It was only later in the day that I learned that he meant my Aunt Wendy, not the fast food restaurant. I mow my Aunt Wendy's lawn every week because she has problems with her hands. This is my third year helping her out and I do not mind one bit and actually like helping her in any way that I can.

I was going to mow her lawn yesterday, but I was so exhausted that I just stayed home. This morning, I casually mentioned to Brian that it would be nice of him to mow her lawn. He looked at me and said, "Um, she's your aunt."

It's the little things like this that remind me why I love Brian so much. I would much rather see him so something unexpectedly nice for me than give me flowers or a present. He's such a great guy and I can't imagine life without him.

One Big World

2006-06-14T21:32:00.000-07:00

Brian and I were discussing my plans to travel abroad and he asked me, "Well how many states have you been to?" He was implying that I should explore my own country before I venture out of it.

I made this cool map that shows exactly which states I've been to. Hopefully, I can visit them all someday.

One of the questions Brian asked me tonight was, "Why do you want travel all of a sudden?"

I explained that we both are explorers at heart. We also love space exploration shows like, "Star Trek" and "Stargate." I told Brian that if we lived in a time where Starfleet or the Stargate program existed, we'd both be signed up for it.

If we want to travel throughout the universe meeting new cultures and species, why don't we make due with what we have? Throughout he world, there are tons of cultures and peoples that are extremely foreign to us and exploring those countries is the equivalent of 23rd century space travel.

To illustrate my point even further, here's a map to all the countries that I've visited:

If I've only visited 2% of the world, why would I not want to visit the rest??

I know I won't be happy or satisfied with my life if I do not explore the world that God created for me. There are so many people, places, and things that I want to discover for myself.

(If you want to create these maps for yourself, go here.)

A Nix in the Newspaper (but not me)

2006-06-14T10:31:00.000-07:00

My grandfather's brother (my great-Uncle) was in the Provo Daily Herald today discussing his view of a constitutional amendment banning flag burning.

Personally, I think the amendment is an overreaction to a few instances of people being stupid. While people are generally stupid, I don't think preventing them from burning the American flag really does anything except make patriotic people feel good.

What the flag represents is more important than the flag itself. The last stanza of the National Anthem says, " And the star-spangled banner in triumph shall wave, O'er the land of the free and the home of the brave!"

Our land of the free and home of the brave are what should be protected at all costs, not a piece of fabric that only represents these things. The American flag is extremely important, but the freedom it stands for is much more important.

New Zealand

2006-06-13T13:48:00.000-07:00

I have this traveling bug right now and I can't seem to get rid of it.

I really want to go to New Zealand and found this cool bus touring company called Stray that I want to use. They have a great and informative website that convinced me that when I go to New Zealand, I have to use them.

Since the summer months in the southern hemisphere are different, I think it would be cool to go in February or March next year before law school starts.

Utah Blogger Conference

2006-06-13T10:56:00.000-07:00

I went to the Utah Bloggers Conference tonight and I had a really great time. Although I had to leave early because Jennie left her key to our house in a friend's car, it was nice to eat some free pizza and see some "famous" bloggers... ahem....

1st Grade memories!

While standing in line, Megan, Brian and I met Representative Craig Frank. He represents the Pleasent Grove area in Utah County. He's also a member of the Conservative Caucus, a group of about 30 legislators who I assume are fiscally and socially conservative.

I'm convinced that meeting legislators in non-official capacities is much better than when they are up at the Capitol. They probably don't worry so much about their image when they are out in regular interactions with the public than when they are "important people" at the capitol.

Rep. Frank was extremely nice and if I was a right-wing nutjob like him, he'd totally have my support. He was really funny and we had a good laugh about him being "crazy." It was very cool to be talking to a very conservative legislator and not feel weird around them. While I probably disagree with him on many issues, it didn't affect my opinion of him because I saw a person and not a Gayle Ruzika clone.

Me and Representative Frank

Pride Wrap Party

2006-06-12T16:48:00.000-07:00

We had our Pride wrap party at the Rio Grande restaurant.

Let me first say that the Mexican food at the Rio Grande is terrible. I asked the waitress if there was anything spicy on the menu and she said, "No, we don't." I ended up ordering a Mexican steak which was really bland. I don't think a Mexican restaurant can claim to be Mexican without spicy food. It was really disappointed and won't go there again with the other fabulous options in Salt Lake.

The Pride wrap party was good because we discussed ideas for next year to make it a success. The ideas that I really liked were hiring a company to clean up after Pride and get rid of the wooden fencing for theatre styling fencing (my idea!).

When I got home, Brian showed me the color he picked for the walls of the bathroom and the tiles he bought. I told him that I loved them and he was really relieved. He was afraid that I was going to hate it, but I joked that I'm very easy to please and I'm happy with most things.

The end of our contentious conversation about the future

2006-06-11T22:18:00.000-07:00

If you remember, Brian and I discussed our future plans last week. Tonight, we finished up our conversation and came to a conclusion.

I gave him an after law school scenario: he gets a job offer making $100,000 a year doing something that he'll really be interested in. I also get a job offer that is perfect for me, though it only pays $30,000 and will be in a foreign country.

I asked Brian which one of us will have to decline our offer. He didn't have an answer for me, so I answered for him. It would be me. I'm going to be the one that sacrifices everything for us and I fear that I may resent him for it.

However, Brian pointed out that I'm happy wherever I am and make the best of everything. He said that I've never been headstrong in one direction and want to do lots of different things in life. He's right--I've never wanted to do "one thing" except for being a lawyer. Everything else are add-on's that would make life more interesting.

Because of that, Brian asked me why I couldn't go to D.C. after law school. That way, it will be easier for him to get a job and support me while I'm in school. I don't think that will happen as after law school real life begins, but I won't tell him that.

I told Brian tonight that I wish he were a submissive wife so he could follow me where I wanted to go. It would be much easier!

Dinner with the Hathaway's

2006-06-11T19:23:00.000-07:00

Brian and I had dinner with Hathaway's tonight. Chris made swiss chicken, a Hathaway family specialty that I absolutely love! I need to ask him for the recipe so I can make it for myself and all my meat-eating friends.

It was the first time that I saw Lincoln and he's so cute! He has a big head just like Chris and it was fun watching him interact. When I first held Lincoln, he started crying. Why do babies do that!?

It was fun watching Chris interact with Lincoln. My favorite part was when Chris held Lincoln upsidedown! Chris said, "They say you shouldn't play rough with babies at this age, but he's a big boy." Lincoln is a big boy and he'll be a lot of fun when he can talk.

Chris and Naomi are such great parents and Lincoln is really lucky to have them. Whenever I see parents who really love their child and do everything to provide for them, I feel badly for the children who do not have those kind of parents. It really makes me sad.

I felt stereotypically gay tonight as Chris and Naomi talked about themselves and Lincoln. We're the gay friends that only have a dog (that they treat like a child). I'm not putting a value judgment on it, I'm just saying it was a weird to realize that my friends are having kids and I'm not. I'm not jealous as I am not ready for kids right now, but it puts a perspective on my relationship with Brian.

It's called Blue Tape

2006-06-11T09:24:00.000-07:00

I watched the Mexico vs. Iran World Cup game this afternoon. It was really fun to watch and reminded me of watching soccer games in Mexico with Austin. I can't wait for the US game this week.

I primed the upstairs bathroom since we are going to be tiling on Wednesday. The only thing after that is putting in a toilet, vanity, and lighting. After that is done, I won't have to run downstairs to go to the bathroom.

I couldn't figure out a good way to paint the edges of the wall next to the bathtub that shouldn't have paint on it. I ended up just painting the edges with a paintbrush and getting paint on the bathtub. Then I took a sponge to wipe the paint off of the bathtub. I thought it was stupid that Brian put in the bathtub before we painted because it made things so much harder.

Brian came home and I explained how I painted the bathroom. He looked at me and said, "Why didn't you use tape?"

Yeah, that's the way to make it easy. I'm just dumb.

Saturday Night Get together

2006-06-10T09:30:00.000-07:00

When I got home, Russell and Jennie were on my front steps. They had taken a bus all the way from Provo to my house and had been waiting for about 45 minutes at my house because they didn't have a key and I was getting back from the Airshow. They looked homeless, as this pictures proves:

Jennie and Russell in front of my house

I invited Megan, Scott, and Ken over for dinner and games. I called Brian and had him pick up a few things from the store.

Brian made sloppy joe's which were really yummy. As we were all in the kitchen getting food, Brian opened a pie he had bought from the store. I looked at him and said, "Brian, don't cook that pie! It's for our dinner with the Hathaway's tomorrow. It's not for them."

After I said it, I felt like a huge idiot. Here are guests of mine that I've invited in my home and I didn't want to cook a pie that wasn't for them. Megan said, "Well, I guess we should go home" and teased me for not being Bree-like. I admit--it was a huge mistake on my part that will never happen again. We cooked the pie and I told Brian we just had to buy a new one tomorrow.
Brian wanted to play "Lord of the Rings Trivial Pursuit". The game was incredibly dumb and only for people who are intense (intense!) fans of the movies and books. I'm a fan, but not an addict. We tried to finish the game as soon as we could because it wasn't fun. I don't think Brian caught on that everyone was bored, but he was pleased with himself when he won because he knew lots of trivia.

USAF Airshow

2006-06-10T09:27:00.000-07:00

I went to Hill Air Force Base to see the airshow. When I was younger, Dad used to take me to these shows because he loves planes. While my love of planes isn't as intense as my dad, I still think they are really cool and love looking at them (especially when they fly over my head).

It took us awhile to figure out how to get there because it was not very clear on how to park. Once we figured it out, we stood in line to get on a bus that would shuttle us to the airfield. Lucky for us, a private car opened up and we got a ride in a nice, air-conditioned SUV.

Yummy Subway sandwich

Lines of Power

When I first walked onto the base, I realized how much I love my United States military and how much I wish I could join them in serving my country. I really wish I could join the Navy right now and do my part on the war on terror. If I weren't gay and didn't have Brian, I would join right now.

Sara, Megan, and I played a fun game where we picked a person with a certain quality (person with a disney hat, person with a tattoo on their right arm, a person wearing sandals and socks, etc.) that the other person had to "have." We got really creative and we laughed and laughed when we found a person who matched.

Alien Man

The air show itself was really, really cool. I loved the loud noise when planes flew over and watching the planes precision fly.

Large Aircraft

Side of Plane

Precious Cargo

Blue Sky

American Standard

Training them young...

Very cool

T-Birds

Me, Sara, and Megan at the Airshow

When the show ended, large groups of people started heading towards the exits and places where buses were supposed to pick us up. We waited in line for about 20 minutes before a bus arrived. After that bus left, we waited another 20 minutes when I overheard someone explain that the buses were parking down the street.

In an authoritative voice, I told the crowd what I heard and told them that they should start walking down the street. About 20 seconds after I walked away and got out of line, a bus appeared. The people who didn't listen to me got on a bus; the people who did (including Sara and Megan) had to walk about two miles. I totally felt like I was in a disaster movie and killed everyone who followed me.

On our wonderful walk, we discussed super powers that we wish we had. Megan wanted to fly (lame), Sara wanted to be invisible, and I wanted to be able to transport to anywhere I wanted just by thinking about it.

We finally got to my car, relaxed, and started the long journey home. There were so many cars that it was going to take us forever, especially with only one lane. Suddenly, a military officer told me (I was the first!) to take the other lane that is usually reserved for opposing traffic. I was confused at first, but then I took the opportunity and cruised at 50 mph passed many cars who had been waiting a long time to leave. Sara, Megan, and I celebrated and danced in the car because of our moment of luck. It was so awesome and now I know how a police officer feels.

One thing I learned today was the ineffectiveness of the military to control crowds. In an evacuation, I'll need to fend for myself if I want to get anywhere. I say leave these guys to what they were trained for, not moving people.

Pancakes

2006-06-10T09:25:00.000-07:00

I picked up my friend Sara Bridge from her brothers house and met Brian at the Original Pancake House. We ate their delicious pancakes and had a great time. I love having breakfast with friends!

When breakfast ended, I noticed that if I took Sara home, I'd be late for my 11am meeting with Senator Karen Hale and Ross Romero (who is running for her seat since she is retiring). Brian couldn't take her home, so Sara said that she'd take the bus. I felt badly, but I couldn't be late to my meeting.

Ross ended up being late to the meeting and I told him I was mad cause I could have taken Sara home.

Big Dog "meets" Little Dog

2006-06-10T05:27:00.000-07:00

Every morning, Titus starts barking at 6am. I put on my robe, open his kennel, and take him out to go potty without any problems.

This morning started the same way. However, when Titus was sniffing the ground, a large dog appeared from behind the chain link fence that separates us from our backyard neighbors.

The dog came from our next door neighbors. They have a total of five dogs, three of which are very large and can be clearly seen when they jump above an eight foot wooden fence. About a month ago, these three dogs broke a plank in the fence that contains them (the eight foot high one) and escaped. They ran into our backyard and went under the chain link behind our house.

Thankfully, there are no houses directly behind us because it's just a large patch of land. When I saw Titus and this dog staring at each other, I knew that there were two other dogs roaming around, probably in the land behind our house.

Suddenly, the large dog entered into our backyard the same way he had left: going under the chainlink fence. Immediately, Titus ran right and the large dog tackled him. I could hear Titus whimpering as this huge dog overtook him. Titus ran left and was again tackled by the dog that was about six times his size.

At 6:05am, I was screaming, "Titus! Titus! Come here!" I must have sounded hysterical as my dog was being overpowered. Finally, Titus escaped and ran into the house. I yelled at the dog to leave and went to take care of Titus. He was okay, but he was shaking and scared at what just happened.

Brian came out of our room and asked what happened. I filled him in on the details and let him take care of Titus.

I was very angry. This is the second time the neighbor dogs have escaped and the first time Titus was out when it happened. I found the number to animal control and called it, but was told by the person who answered the phone that they only respond to emergencies when their offices are normally closed.

It wasn't an emergency and Titus was okay, but I was very upset that our neighbors weren't being responsible dog owners. I decided that if the dogs get out again, I will make sure that animal control comes and does something. West Valley only allows two dogs per household, so my neighbors are in violation.

I don't want to be a bad neighbor and would normally mind my own business. Their dogs bark all the time, yet I won't call animal control on that because I don't care (mostly it's because I went to bed with hundreds of stray dogs barking in Mexico). But when their dogs "violently play" or "attack" my dog, then it becomes my business and I have to protect Titus.

I actually think that their dogs will get out again. It's only a matter of time.

Let's Go

2006-06-09T09:32:00.000-07:00

Yes, I spent three months in Mexico, but I feel like I need a vacation. This morning, I looked up vacations on Orbitz to see how much they cost. A round trip ticket to Australia? $1100. Israel? $1200. Miami? $300.

Since coming back from Mexico, I've wanted to leave again to travel across the globe. Sure, I have commitments here but I just want to leave! I know Brian won't ever come with me, so it's either me going by myself or finding someone who wants to drop everything for three months.

I added a link to my blog list of "The Traveling Morans." They recently married and are going on a year long honeymoon traveling across the world. I'm soooooo jealous!

My goal for next summer is to leave for three months traveling before law school begins. When in the rest of my life will I have time to do that? I'll probably have to take out a loan but I'm totally okay with that as long as I pay off my credit cards and car.

Critique from Dominique

2006-06-08T09:58:00.000-07:00

So Dominique, the lady that screamed at me on Saturday night of Pride, made a post in a forum with her critique of Pride:

i'd like to see a feedback webpage like there was for Winterfest. there are lots of things i liked, and many others, frankly, that will make me 2nd think attending next year.

the dance was fun. in years gone by, the "after dance" socializing was more fun than the actual dance. being herded out like a bunch of criminals by the line of security personnel and trucks was so incredibly insensitive. would that you could have heard the comments. it really dampened an otherwise perfect night. so if the arrogant organizer wanted to go home, open the gates and go home. its a PUBLIC park, not his private little kingdom. when questioned, his response was more arrogant and insensitive than the criminal roundup he presided over [bold and italics added]. we never had problems in the past as security was posted all night.

it never ceases to amaze me that the same mistakes are made over and over and over again because the past organizers seem to be excluded or totally discounted. there were too many stages, placed too close together, with the sound systmes way too loud. i couldn't hear the political stage because of the noise from the dance floor. i couldn't enjoy the acoustical stage because the main stage and wells fargo music was too loud. i couldn't enjoy the main stage because it was too bloody hot. there were more people squished into too small a space.

contrary to the opinion of the new Pride organizers, there WERE 20-30,000 in attendance in years past. that we didn't have tickets to verify attendance does not change what many of us remember.

ok.. done bitching.

I'm glad the Grand Marshall reception was returned to Memory Grove. It is a fabulous, warm, charming, inviting venue. The food was incredible, as were the speeches.

The Dyke March was also incredible. We stretched back nearly 2 complete city blocks. Having the dykes on bikes leading was also fabulous, especially when they revved their engines so we couldn't hear the religious psychos.

Fran's opening on Sunday was up to her usual fabulocity.

The best thing of Pride is meeting up with people you haven't seen forever. It truly is a family reunion. Pride and reuniting. Yup. That's what Pride is. I pray this fund raising event doesn't lose sight of what Pride really is all about.

-Dominique

I love this letter because it shows how naive, and frankly, how dumb people can be. People complain about events that they didn't help to run and act like they know everything.

I also love the part about me. Sure, send me home and lets see Pride be successful. Also, I think Jere said it best when he wrote about her comment about the square being a public park: "Well, no, not technically. From Friday to Sunday, we own a rental lease on that property and we can kick anyone out whenever we want (that's how we are able to deal with protestors, drunks and troublemakers). I'm sorry she felt her "perfect night" got ruined by our need to clear the park quickly, but I'm not losing sleep over it."

She also complained about the amount of people at Pride, then said that in past years there were more people than this year. And I love how she "remembers" 30,000 people at Pride when the Police (AKA crowd counting professionals) said this year was the largest.

The only thing I'm really sorry about is that she couldn't enjoy the main stage because "it was too bloody hot." Next year, I'll make sure to send an email to God.

Restaurant of Contention

2006-06-07T10:09:00.000-07:00

Brian and I had dinner at Sampan tonight and he thought it was going to be a normal dinner.

I've wanted to bring up the subject of me going to grad school with Brian for about three weeks, but the right moment hasn't presented itself.

Right after I came back from Mexico, Brian mentioned that he wanted to go to law school and we agreed that we would both just go to the University of Utah. The original plan, pre-Mexico, was that we'd move to Washington D.C. where I would attend George Washington University and get a Masters in emergency management. When Brian told me what he wanted to do, I told him I'd not do D.C. thing.

Tonight, I told him that I still want to go to George Washington and want to go this January. I explained that I felt like I've sacrificed for him already (I was going to go to law school this fall, but he wanted me to wait one year since he started his Sprint job. He said we could move if I waited) and don't want to sacrifice this. I told him that I don't want to resent him for sacrificing my dreams for his.

He got upset and kinda raised his voice. He said that we can't sell the house for two years because of the financial agreement he made (which he made after I agreed that we'd stay in Utah).

He asked why I couldn't go to D.C. and he stay in Utah. I told him that if that happened, I would want to break up. While I love Brian with all my heart, being 3,000 miles away from him would be too hard (especially since Mexico was extremely difficult for me).

After dinner, I went over to Megan's to deliver some egg drop soup since she's sick. She burned me two music CD's and we talked a little about what went wrong with Pride.

The look of exhaustion

2006-06-06T10:05:00.000-07:00

When I walked into work today, Paul looked at me and laughed, saying, "Wow. You look like you really partied hard last night and got hammered."

Oh how I wish he'd been right...

The Day After

2006-06-05T09:56:00.000-07:00

I'm so sore! I slept in until noon because I was exhausted. I now know what exhaustion feels like.

I felt so badly for Brian because he had to go to work this morning. He'll be on his feet all day. He had a hard time walking up and down the stairs because of his old man legs.

Pride isn't over for me yet--the Budget truck full of Pride stuff needed to be emptied into the storage unit. When I walked into Megan's apartment to pick her up, we both started laughing because we were exhausted. I don't know what was funny, but we just started laughing.

Emptying the truck wasn't that bad; I just didn't want to be there doing it. Megan, Jere, and I got to talk about Pride and all the things that went wrong with it. Jere talked a little about moving to San Francisco and I'm sad to see him leave. I really got to know Jere as a friend this time around and won't get the opportunity to hang out with him more.

I treated Brian and Megan to a dinner at P.F. Changs and went to see the movie, Poseidon.

Tomorrow, I have to go to work and I really don't want to.

Pride Sunday

2006-06-04T15:18:00.000-07:00

The first phone call I received this morning was from Megan. "Where are you?" she immediately asked, bypassing the normal "hello."

"I'm just leaving my house."

"Argh. I need you here now!" she replied and hung up. I was afraid that this was the Megan I was going to have to deal with all day. Luckily, when we got to the site at 6:30am, she was in a good mood.

The morning was filled with little things that needed to be done. Vendors needed tables and chairs, trash cans needed to be moved, and lots of other little things. I hadn't made my list for the "Volunteer and Staff" entrance that listed names of people that were allowed into Pride for free (people associated with groups other than Pride). Russell and Jennie (who were staffing that entrance) needed that list before people started to arrive.

At 8:30am, Austin, Eric, Keith, Ellie, and Evan arrived to pick up some nice cars that were going to be used in the parade. I didn't have the address of where to pick them up, so I had to carry Megan's laptop into the Leonardo to find internet access.

Austin driving the Corvette

Ellie and Rep. David Litvack

Keith and Jackie, the lesbian.

Eric with some people who I don't know.

Evan and Boyer Jarvis, the Pride Grand Marshall

Having Megan's laptop was very helpful throughout the day and I'm glad we used it.

(As I type this, I'm getting stressed out because of the mess that Pride day was. I don't want to rehash the memories!).

At 10am, I met my volunteers who would be helping me with Parade crowd control. We walked over to 4th south where I handed them off to Megan. We planned the crowd control issue very well, yet when we got to the parade route, the police informed us that plans had changed. It wasn't a big deal, but managing the parade volunteers took up my time until 10:55am.

The gates were to open at 11am and one of the gates wasn't ready. When I walked to the NW entrance, tickets had already started being sold--at the wrong table! This year, we separated where patrons could buy tickets and where they could enter the festival. This is the way most large venues handle ticket sales.

Since there was no person in charge of the NW entrance at the time my volunteers showed up, they did what they thought was right. I had to stop ticket sales, move my volunteers, and keep 200 people waiting to buy tickets at bay. It got so bad that I started selling tickets with exact change, something that was actually very successful. In my new Abercrombie shorts, I stuffed lots and lots of cash in my pockets (yes, I put everything I got back into a cashiers box!).

That mishap took about an hour of my time to fix, then another problem came. Volunteers that I had scheduled for the beverage area hadn't arrived yet. I had to pull volunteers from other areas to staff the beverage area. The whole day turned into a "we need more volunteers here" day.

Me with Ricky Gay in the background!

Some staff members hadn't scheduled volunteers, so sometimes a radio call would come asking me for volunteers. Because we were shorthanded anyways, I didn't have any to send. I felt badly for some of these requests.

Other requests were just plain stupid. One person asked me for a volunteer who was "familiar with Pride policies" to answer questions at the GLBT Center's booth. I told her that she needed to familiarize herself with the policies and be that volunteers.

Another person asked me if I had volunteers to help a band move their stuff. I told that person that I had no one at the time and wanted, but didn't, to ask why the band didn't have any groupies to do it.

Melissa, Austin, Me, and Beth

In the middle of the day, Troy (beverage coordinator) said that we ran out of ice. Apparently, he had only bought 500 pounds, an amount drastically small for a festival of our size. Brian took the Budget truck to buy some ice from local grocery and convenience stores. Then, Troy said that we ran out of water. Megan and Brian took another trip to the store (and Center storage where we had 50 boxes of water).

Some of our volunteer group

Beth and Nick move Pride water.

Jennie working the beer station

After about 4pm, everything was downhill in terms of stress. Sure, there were little things that were stressing me out, but I managed them.

At 6pm, I gathered volunteers to make people leave. I wasn't as concerned as I was yesterday with getting people out of the park. I knew we'd be there cleaning up for awhile.

Megan with her bodyguards!

For Pride cleanup, I had a group of about 40 people from the JobCorp who wanted to get into Pride for free and were willing to help cleanup. Yesterday, I was informed that the lady in charge accepted free tickets from someone else and therefore didn't need to volunteer. I was, first, angry that she was bailing out, and second, angry because she did not contact me (who arranged the free tickets in the first place).

Needless to say, the cleanup part of Pride took a LONG time. Luckily, I had some GREAT volunteers who stayed and helped out. I'm amazed that some of these people stayed around and helped even though they didn't have to. I know I owe them all one.

Every year, a giant rainbow flag (6 yards x 100 yards) needs to be rolled up. We pulled it out of the truck and I told everyone that they should wrap themselves in it because it's easier to carry that way. The photo opportunity was priceless, so I told Megan to take some pictures. Troy, the beverage coordinator, yelled that we shouldn't be playing and ended up storming off the premises. I was really disappointed in his attitude and dismayed that he just left.

Aren't I cute?!

Jennie wrapped in the Pride Flag

Russell loves him some Pride flag

The bondage that is Pride

Nick

Moving along...

For about one hour, ten volunteers and I gathered 180 garbage cans (the kind that you put in front of your house) and moved them to the curb. Most were full of garbage and heavy to pull/push. By this time, we were all very tired and ready to go home. I told Brian that this is what Hell must be like--and endless supply of garbage cans that we have to put on a street.

Yes, those are all full (sorry about the picture quality)

Scott and Melissa tired from moving trash cans.

I had a box in the middle of the closed street that had two electric screwdrivers and their batteries. At about 11pm, I looked for this box and found that it had been run over by a truck and a battery was destroyed. Tired and angry do not go together. The truck was the Diamond Rental truck (the rental company that provided canopies, tables, chairs, etc.) and I wanted to yell at the driver. I found a group of Hispanic workers and yelled, "Who drove this truck?! Where is the driver?!" They all looked at me and pointed in different directions. I knew that my attempt was futile, so I got over it.

At 11:30pm, everything was mostly clean and the truck was packed. We took a picture of the people who lasted until the end. By this time, I had been on site for 17 hours. I drove my car home and, after reading the news, went to bed.

The Final Group (we stayed until midnight).

Today, I decided that I'm not going to be involved with Pride 2007. I didn't have any fun today because I was overwhelmed with problems. I had a bigger role than a volunteer coordinator should have and I wasn't expecting that. Brian and I decided that every year during Pride, we're going to do something fun that's not associated with Pride. Maybe in a few years, I'll be back, but not now.

Here's my critique for Pride 2007:

*Every area needs a supervisor who is a committee/board member or trusted friend of organization; entrances, ticket sales, each beverage area, every area that involves money.

The big problem at the NW entrance happened because there was no one there in charge.

*Parade needs to be in charge of entire area; including end/parade monitors.

Much of the NW gate problem was my fault. I should have been over there, but I was managing volunteers for the parade area. It should not have been my responsibility to do that.

*All committee members need to know and help out with the entire picture.

I think only a few people saw what "Pride 2006" was: Jere, Megan, and me. That's why Megan and I had leadership roles in making sure everything ran smoothly. If other board members saw what we saw and helped, things may have gone better.

*People need to anticipate volunteer needs for entire day; set-up, strike, etc.

When I needed volunteers to be doing something, a committee member told me that they needed x amount of volunteers to help them. If I would have known they needed volunteers at that time, I would not have been short staffed.

*All committee & board members must stay until park is cleaned or until a reasonable time.

It's offensive that committee and board members of the GLBT Center left the cleaning of Pride to under 20 volunteers. They all had an interest in Pride and should be helping to clean up. I asked them to help with cleanup at all our meetings; obviously, my plea fell on deaf ears.

My volunteer crew that assisted me this year was absolutely AWESOME! Eleata, Kate, Scott, Shawn, Melissa, Nick, Elizabeth, and my lovely Brian were absolutely more than I could have ever asked for. When something needed to be done, they did it, no matter what it was. Jennie and Russell also did a fantastic job and were there until the very end. Having them was a godsend since the volunteer and staff entrance needs the same person there all day.

Jere did a great job as the Pride coordinator this year. He was much more involved than the coordinator last year and I think everything he planned was a success. I'm glad he was always available to meet and quickly responded to questions. I think we understood each other on what needed to get done for Pride. He didn't micromanage and let me make decisions on my own. I'm so glad he was in charge! Great leaders make it easy to follow.

If I had to give myself a grade for my performance as the volunteer coordinator for Pride 2006, I would give myself a B.

One big mistake I made this year was not overstaffing volunteer areas. I think I did it last year, but this year I failed big time. Volunteer coordinators need to remember that only 50% of volunteers actually show up. (Actually, after looking at the numbers, 77% of volunteers that signed up through me showed up.)

I also think that volunteers did not understand the checkin/checkout process. As simple as it was, I think the fault lies in me not training Russell and Jennie better. They did a fabulous job at the Volunteer and Staff entrance, but I think they needed more information to handle things that came up. I only blame myself.

The volunteer area needs to be separated from the rest of the festival because we had people come in and out of the area who weren't supposed to be there. We had food and drink for the volunteers and I fear that people just came, saw, and took. Dominique, from last night, had a volunteer shirt on even though she didn't volunteer. There needs to be more control on who is in that area.

Whoever is the volunteer coordinator for next year will get unfettered access to me and my knowledge base of what to do and not to do. I want Pride 2007 to be successful, just not on my watch.

I'm tired and want to stop thinking about Pride.

For more of my pictures, go here.

For TONS of Utah Pride pictures, go to Jere's flickr account. He took as many pictures as I should have.

Pride Saturday

2006-06-03T11:19:00.000-07:00

As usual, I was running late when I dropped Titus off with Megan. Since her office is next to the library, she's letting us keep Titus there so we can check on him throughout the day. I think it's better than having someone watch him since I don't want to inconvenience anyone.

I quickly got Titus settled, then drove over to the Center where volunteers were going to meet me. I almost got into an accident on the way there and thankful missed the car by a couple of inches. It would have really ruined my weekend.

When I arrived at 9am, there was only one volunteer there. I instantly panicked, thinking that no one was going to show up even though I scheduled lots of Saturday volunteers.

only 1 volunteer, feared that no one would show up even though Sat has lots of volunteers. At around 9:30am, most of the volunteers showed up and I let out a sigh of relief. We drove over to the storage unit, put everything in the truck, and drove to the Pride site.

Brian gave me nine Nextel phones to hand out to Megan and my volunteer assistants. They worked great today! They were great because of the little beep they make to notify you that someone is calling. A regular walkie-talkie does not do that.

There were lots of little things that we had to do which I won't write about here because they are boring (unless moving garbage cans, putting up signs, and constructing a fence are interesting to you). We actually finished everything at 3pm, about three hours ahead of last year, so I had to send some volunteers home early. The next time I needed volunteers was 6pm.

One volunteer came by at 1pm and said she was ready to volunteer in the store. When I told her that Pride was on Sunday, she said that the email she received said Saturday. I told her that I wouldn't have done that. I tried looking it up on Megan's computer, but there was no internet access. The volunteer didn't want to wait around, so she walked away angry. I later checked the exact email and I had, in fact, told her Saturday. I felt like an idiot and bad for the girl who I didn't believe but was right.

I made this audio post in the middle of the day:

The dance tonight was crazy busy! There were so many more people there than last year due to the wonderful weather. Everything went pretty well and I had a chance to not be "crazy" busy.

When 10pm arrived, I had my volunteers start moving the crowd out of the park. Security also helped us and every patron had left by 10:10pm. When I told Jere at 9:45pm that I wanted everyone out by 10:10pm, he said that it wasn't a realistic expectation. I was glad when it actually happened.

As we were telling people to leave, one lady named Dominique (who I've interacted with before) started yelling at one of my volunteers. I walked over to her and said, "It's time to go. Thank you for coming." Seconds later, Dominique was asking a security guard, "What other festival kicks people out of the park like we're criminals?"

I told Dominique that the dance ended at 10pm and it was time to go. I also said that I was responsible for getting people out quickly because many volunteers needed to be here at 6am the next day. Her reply? "Ever since you've become involved, you've been on one big power trip." Yes, I volunteer for Pride just to feel powerful.

Beverages

Russell being silly.

Jennie showing off her wonderful glasses.

Megan taking a break.

Megan back to work!

One of the cutest boys at Pride, Scott!

Pride Friday

2006-06-02T21:10:00.000-07:00

I worked until 3pm and then my three day weekend started. I'm hoping it will be a fun time to focus on Pride.

The Grand Marshall reception is tonight, so instead of going home and changing into nice clothes, I wore my nice clothes to work. Living in West Valley can be inconvenient at times and today was one of those times.

I went to the setup site where Megan had been all day. I made a Budget truck run to the center before I arrived at Memory Grove where the Grand Marshall reception was being held.

When I got there, Kellie Anne was glad to see me and wanted to train my volunteers. I told her that she could give the information to me and I would take care of it. She started talking to me, then migrated into talking to the volunteers. My "favorite" thing she said:

"You need to highlight the name when someone checks in. Um, use that yellow highlighter."

The highlighter she pointed out was triangular with 3 different colors. After she micromanaged that point, I told her that I could take care of the rest and she needed to go do other things. Micromanaging to the point of highlighter color is ridiculous!!

Me and Jere

Jere and I (totally a posed shot)

Kellie Anne, Yellow Highlighter lady

The event was okay, though I don't really like schmoozie events. I spent most of my time with Beth, Shawn, and Robb in the registration area. Catering did have these AMAZING chicken roll things! I ate lots of them.

I saw Chris Sugden there and he looked really good--like really good. I first met Chris four years ago at an Evergreen conference and didn't really think he was cute. Today, he's transformed himself into a gorgeous guy. I'm not attracted to him, but I want to look like him. He really built himself up and looks really fit. After Pride ends, I'm going to start my regimen again.

I played a fun game at the event tonight. We kept getting the question, "Where is the bathroom?" by lots of people, so I said to my friends that we should say something funny back to them. I recommended, "It's over there, but it's whites only." I didn't actually say it to anyone, but we all laughed. If I actually said it to someone, they'd think I was a racist and have a skewwed opinion of me.

Once the event kinda ended (we left early), Shawn and I went back to the setup site (Beth went home to Orem) to help Megan.

It was about 10:30pm when we all finally wanted to go home. Megan said she was going to buy some things for Sunday that didn't have to be bought tonight. She was insistent that she buy them now because we would have no time the next day, though I knew that we would have time to do it. I knew that we'd have to be at the site tomorrow at 8am, so it would be better if we went to bed early.

I tried to press Megan into not going shopping, but once that girl has made up her mind that is it! She got upset with me, but I wanted her to get enough sleep. Yes, I'm not her father, but I'm just a friend who cares.

She ended up going to the store and I went to Wal*Mart to get gloves for my volunteers.

Busy, Busy, Busy

2006-06-01T09:58:00.000-07:00

Most of my day was spent putting lists together and finalizing things for Pride. I've been on my phone most of the day and ignoring customers on my other phone. I have to be ready for Pride!

Meeting of One

2006-05-31T16:18:00.000-07:00

Only one person came to the Parade Crowd Control meeting tonight at the Center. The AIDS foundation is supposed to provide volunteers for this job and we thought they were going to be at the meeting.

When I called the guy from the AIDS Foundation, he said that they didn't know about the meeting. When I told Jere, he got mad.

We're just going to have to wing it on Sunday.

Megan created an awesome map of the parade area and we planned how we are going to control traffic. It looked like we were planning a war because the map was huge and we made little post-its for people. It was fun!

After the meeting, Megan wanted to go through all the signage for Pride because she wanted to create a list of what we had to put up. We spent about an hour looking at each one when Jere walked up to us and told us he had that list already. I felt dumb.

Pride Preparations

2006-05-30T06:01:00.000-07:00

People met at my house today to stuff the volunteer bags. Because I felt obligated to feed them, I told Brian to order pizza. When the bill came, it turned out that he spent $47 on three pizzas! I hope I can get reimbursed for that!

Pride is starting to stress me out and I can't wait for it to be over. I have other things that I want to focus on and I cannot do it until Pride is over.

Brian mentioned something to me today. I've told multiple people that I volunteer for Pride because I find Pride incredibly boring. Brian asked me if all the time I put into Pride is worth it just for that one day. I don't know anymore cause my logic is off. Sure, if I just arrived and volunteered, my logic would make sense. But putting in hours of preparation just because I'm bored at Pride?

Memorial Day

2006-05-29T06:05:00.000-07:00

I planned on waking up early this morning to go to breakfast with Dad. Unfortunately, Russell, Jennie, and I woke up late and that messed us up. When we all arrived at IHOP, the wait was 45 minutes because it was Memorial day and everyone wanted someone else to cook their breakfast. I totally forgot about the holiday and was really disappointed since I didn't spend much time with Dad this weekend. But at least he didn't come during Pride week.

I couldn't wait the 45 minutes because I had a 10am meeting with volunteers to empty out the Pride storage unit. Russell helped out and was his goofball self. He makes people laugh and I'm finally getting over being annoyed because Russell isn't prim and proper like me. Russell is Russell and he's hilarious.

After we did Pride work, we went over to Janice's house to swim. It was fun, but it was cold.

We visited Brian at his store to say hi. His co-worker, Evan (who Brian thinks is gay) touched my butt. It was kinda weird.

Brian and I went to Smith's and Albertson's to buy 12 packs of Diet Coke and Diet Lemonade for $2.00 each. It's the best price that they have and we're always make sure we buy enough to last us for awhile (since we drink a lot). There is a limit of 5 per transaction, so I decided to do multiple transactions. (Had it said 5 per customer, I couldn't do that).

When we were in Smith's, our clerk asked another clerk what the sale price was. When she looked into our cart and saw about 30 packs, she said, "You can only get 5."

Brian pointed out that the sale was 5 per transaction, and then the lady said something like we couldn't do it. I turned to the kid that was helping me and said, "You can just do it. I've done this before." He helped us out while the other lady clerk said something else. I don't remember what she said, but I turned to her and said, "Ma'am, you do not need to be so rude." I hate rude people!

My Thoughts on the LDS Church's Statement on the FMA

2006-05-28T14:48:00.000-07:00

I don't really have much to say on the LDS church's endorsement of the Federal Marriage Amendment. They've always opposed gay marriage and are just reaffirming their stance.

However, this statement makes me feel badly for my LDS family and friends. The church that they believe is true puts them at odds with their relationship with me. I wonder what my mother must think: her son and his partner have been together for over 3 years and are more stable than many marriages, yet the church she believes in says that her son and his partner cannot "maintain and strengthen the family as the fundamental unit of society."

I believe that by being with Brian in a monogamous and stable relationship, we only strengthen the importance the family as the most important unit of society. I believe that marriage for gays can only strengthen the family.

I agree with people that the family is becoming less and less important in our society: families don't sit together for dinner, families spend less time together, and divorce is the easy and available option for most people. However, I don't think keeping people out of marriage protects it.

I think anyone who knows me well knows that family is extremely important to me. No matter what the government says Brian and I aren't, I know that Brian and I form a family of our own.

Update: This article appeared in the Salt Lake Tribune and I really liked it: LDS authority and gay marriage.

Mormon Church

2006-05-28T06:08:00.000-07:00

Since Dad is in town, I decided that it would be nice to go to church with him. Russell, Jennie, and I were supposed to meet at Amy's house at 10am, but we were running late and got to the church right after the sacrament was served.

While I wanted to go with my Dad, I really wanted to be on time for Mormon church because they read their letter in support for the Federal Marriage Amendment. Since we were late, I wasn't able to hear it read over the pulpit. I was disappointed, but it wasn't a big deal.

Russell and Jennie came with me to my volunteer orientation at the Center. It went fine. We went home and vegged out by watching TV. (I watched the season finale of Grey's Anatomy where Merideth's dog has to be put down. It reminded me of Lucy and I started crying.)

I got a little upset with Brian tonight. He got off work early, but instead of staying home to hang out with us, he went to see XMen 3, a movie he had already seen. He went to be with his friends, but when he got back, Brian told me that only one of his friends showed up. I guess I was also upset since I felt that I was "stuck" at home with nothing to do. I guess I just felt left out.

Carnivores live longer...

2006-05-27T18:13:00.000-07:00

I hosted a dinner party tonight for my volunteer assistants that will be helping me with Pride next week. I really wanted to get together to describe what is going to go on next week, but mostly I wanted to get together for fun.

I also invited Jere Keys, the guy in charge of all of Pride. I invited him mostly because he's moving and this was one of the few times that I'll be able to hang out with him before he leaves. Plus I knew he'd be helpful in explaining what is going to take place next weekend.

When I sent out invitations, I thought about asking for dietary restrictions. I decided not to because I thought Shawn was the only non-meat eater of the invitees.

I was all ready and excited to finally be hosting people in my new house. When Shawn arrived with Eleata, Eleata informed me that she was a vegetarian. It wasn't a big deal because Shawn brought some sauce she could eat.

Then Kate came and informed me she too didn't eat meat. So far, everyone who had arrived wouldn't be able to eat the sauce I made since it had cow in it.

When Jere arrived, the first thing I said was, "Are you a vegetarian?" to which he replied, "yes." Argh! Everyone I invited to this meal didn't eat meat!!

Luckily, they were the only ones and it was easy to open a can of spaghetti sauce for them. It turned out fine, but next time, I'll have to make sure to ask.

I had a lot of fun tonight talking about Pride. We were going to count drink tickets next week, but it turned out that we didn't have to since they were already in rolls of 2000. We ended up just sitting around and talking.

I'm so glad these guys are helping me this year because think it will alleviate some stress that is inevitable. It will be nice to have 20 extra hands to do things for me.

Family Reunion of Jesse Henry Nix

2006-05-27T10:41:00.000-07:00

The family reunion was fun, mostly because of the unexpected thing that happened.

I saw Aunt Donna, my Grandpa's sister, and said hello. My dad and Aunt Donna were really close and so I feel a certain connection to her. When I used to live in Provo, I used to visit her once a month and have dinner with some cousins. I learned from her to like salad and tell people where to sit at dinner parties.

She looked at Brian and said, "Now, who do you belong to?" referring to a family member. Brian looked at me uneasily and I said, "This is my boyfriend, Brian." It didn't seem to faze her and we kept talking.

Then Aunt Donna asked, "So, how is your love life?"

Me: "It's great."

Aunt Donna: "Well, where is she?"

I was dumbfounded. Didn't I just introduce Brian as my boyfriend? I guessed she missed it.

Me: "I don't know if you know or not, but I'm gay and this is my boyfriend Brian."

Aunt Donna: "Oh!"

Now the gay thing fazed her. At least I think it did. To steer off any feelings of awkwardness, I kept talking and told her we just bought a house and were renovating it. I prevented any awkwardness, but it was interesting. But that's not the end of the story...

The person in charge had each child of Jesse Henry Nix (my great-grandfather) introduce themselves and their families in front of everyone. When Aunt Donna went, she had two men sit next to her. One was her son and the other was married to her daughter. Her son spoke about each of this children and in describing one of them, he said, "Steve and his partner live in California..."

Brian and I immediately looked at each other! There were other gays in my family! Aunt Donna has a gay grandson! I should have found the guy and talked to him about his son, but I was distracted by other things. I'm going to ask Aunt Wendy if she knows anything about this gay cousin of mine!

When it was our families turn to go up, I commented to Brian, Russell, and Jennie that I was interested to see how Dad would introduce Brian. I was hoping he'd say "partner" or "boyfriend". Instead, Dad said, "This is my son Jesse and his friend Brian." That was it. When Russell confronted him about it (I asked him to do it), Dad said, "I was trying to be as discreet as possible."

That statement kinda hurt my feelings and I was kinda upset with Dad. I think he may always have a problem with me being gay and never will fully accept it. Of course he accepts me and loves me and that's the most important thing he can do. He also likes Brian and doesn't treat him any differently. But I know my Dad wishes things were different and he may hope that things will change one day.

Mom's different. I know she wishes things were also different, but has accepted that things aren't going to change. While she can talk to me about gay things, Dad has a hard time with it. I don't think there's anything I can ever do about that.

Also at the family reunion, Amy said to Carly, "Look at Uncle Jesse and Uncle Brian." That made me feel really good.

All pictures are here.

Family is Always First

2006-05-27T06:11:00.000-07:00

I had a dilemma this morning. There were two events going on that I needed to be at: a Nix family reunion and a pride volunteer orientation meeting. Being a member of the Nix family, I needed to be at the family reunion. Being the volunteer coordinator, I needed to be at the volunteer orientation.

I vacillated between trying to attend both events or just one. Most of my dilemma was actually implementing a rule I've made for myself: Family comes first. Throughout my life, I want nothing to come before my family. I've often imagined myself in the future missing important meetings for my son's soccer games or quitting a job because it wasn't conducive to my familial commitments. I never want to be that guy who spends more time at work than with his family.

It was important that I be at the Pride meeting, but it was more important to be at my family reunion. I knew that if I went to the Pride meeting, it would start a precedent of putting other things before my family. I just couldn't do it.

Friends

2006-05-26T13:41:00.000-07:00

I have this silly need to be liked by everyone I meet and become a little depressed when people don't like me. (There are exceptions to this rule, like Alex Quinn, who kicked me out as a roommate or Jeff Mathis, who thinks I'm stupid).

Tonight, when we were walking out of Cafe Rio, Austin received a text message from Andrew (a guy who went to Mexico with us) inviting him to do something. I felt like a loser since I didn't receive that text message and was obviously not invited. It made me question my status with my friends, if people really like me, etc.

Suddenly, in the parking lot, I saw Brianna and she got really excited to see me. She told me that we had to hang out soon and that she missed me. My encounter with her really lifted my spirits and made me realize that it shouldn't matter if some people don't want to hang out with me. There are others who do.

Tag Along, then Double Date

2006-05-26T13:28:00.000-07:00

The last time I saw Austin was on cinco de mayo. Brian and I told him and his girlfriend that we should get together soon to double date, yet we haven't gotten together until tonight.

Brian was working until 9pm, so I met Austin and Melissa at Cafe Rio. We then met up with Brian at Century 16 Theatres.

There are two parking lots at this particular theatre, both of which were full. I had to park 2 blocks north and walk. I didn't mind too much, but it was quite annoying. I guess everyone wanted to see X-Men 3, including us.

Brian finally arrived as we sat down to watch the movie. I'm glad that we had about 20 minutes to talk before the movie started so they could get to know Brian.

I had a lot of fun and want to double with them more often. I don't know if this is weird or not, but I love going on dates with straight couples because I feel validated by them. I feel more comfortable holding hands in public with I'm with Austin and Melissa (or any other straight couple) because others can see that these non-gay people don't care. Plus, if anyone ever said anything to Brian and I, Austin would have my back. Haha!

Cooking and Shopping

2006-05-26T08:15:00.000-07:00

Before Dad and Brian woke up, I ran to the store to get some eggs, bread, and bacon.

I've made a rule that anytime we have guests over, I'm going to make them good breakfasts. It's part of me trying to remember my motto, "Be like Bree!"

I made French Toast for them and had a lot of fun cooking for them. I hope they appreciated it.

Dad went to Lowes with us to get stuff to tile the bathroom. He made Brian and I laugh in the store by being goofy. I've always loved going to home improvement stores with Dad. When I was growing up, he'd always ask me to go with him and I'd usually say yes. Going today brought back good memories of him and I together.

Picking up Dad

2006-05-25T13:18:00.000-07:00

My sister Amy was supposed to pick Dad up, but unfortunately, his plane was late and didn't get in until 2 am. I called Amy and told her that since she has 2 kids and I only have a dog, I'd be glad to pick him up.

Brian and I watched Star Trek: TNG to stay awake for my Dad. I knew that if I went to sleep, I probably wouldn't wake up. At about 1am, I wandered upstairs for something and ended up falling asleep on our bed. Brian woke me up and told me that I couldn't sleep if he couldn't.

We finally picked Dad up at 2 am and brought him to our house. I gave him a little tour and then he went to bed. I thought it was kinda cool that my Dad was visiting and staying in our guest room. It makes me feel all grown up!

White Wedding Day

2006-05-20T12:07:00.000-07:00

I don't know if I've written about it here before, but Brian's dad (Doug) has been dating (communicating and visiting) a woman from the Philippines. She finally arrived to the States last week and they got married today.

Brian and I went to the Salt Lake Temple waiting room to meet his Dad and soon to be wife. When Doug approached us, without thinking I whispered to Brian, "Who is that little girl he's with?"

"Um, that's my new step-mom."

This woman was about 4 feet tall and it looked weird with her standing next to Doug (who is about 6 foot 3). They said a quick hello and then went into the temple to get married.

Brian and I waited on the grass with Brian's sister Alisha along with Russell and Jennie. After I laid in the grass with my head on Brian's leg, my eyes started itching.

Turns out that I have an allergy to grass and that I shouldn't have scratched my eyes. They immediately puffed up and made me look Japanese. My eyes filled with tears and they streamed down my face as we went to find Doug and his new wife. It must have looked like I was really emotional and I laughed at the situation.

As we were walking on Temple Square, I saw James Drysdale, an old friend from Texas. He and I grew up together and were rather close at one time. I apologized for looking like crap and introduced Brian to him. I don't think he was weirded out by Brian--he was more weirded out by the way I looked. It was quite embarrassing.

The Name Change

2006-05-19T17:00:00.000-07:00

Brian thinks it's settled.

I filled out the rebate form for our refridgerator on Monday and left it on the counter. Brian told me that in the name field, I wrote, "Jesse Nicholls."

It was totally not on purpose.

I'd be fine with changing my name, but "Nix" is so much more cooler than "Nicholls." Isn't it?

Reply All

2006-05-19T15:39:00.000-07:00

I received an email today from someone on the Pride committee:

"In a totally unrelated matter, what do you and your partner do for Thanksgiving and Christmas? Do you have family locally? I ask only because every year, my roommates and I host a big dinner party for both days and if you're just sitting at home watching football, then you guys should come over for festivities. Even if you have places to go, come later on anyway - the main dinner doesn't start until 7pm.

Keep in touch after pride, if you will. You seem like a totally awesome guy and I'd be happy to earn your friendship. As you do seem so awesome, I'm sure your partner must be equally awesome, so I'm sure I'd welcome getting to know him as well. :)"

It's really a nice email and I was flattered to receive it. However, the recipient list not only included me, but everyone on the pride committee.

Just a friendly reminder to everyone: Personal emails sent to everyone look silly.

I laughed when I read this email that Megan sent me:

We should like totally hang out after Pride!

You seem so awesome and your partner must be just as awesome!

Yay! We can be BFF!

Keep in touch over the summer!
Stay cool!

(heart)
Megan

Sharing

2006-05-19T12:02:00.000-07:00

Brian and I were both getting ready in the bathroom when he told me that he had to poop. Since we were both in a rush, I jokingly said "Just do it in front of me."

He looked at me and firmly said, "No, that's gross."

"Brian," I said, "We share everything. You can poop in front of me."

Then Brian opened his left hand, spit a lougee in it, and told me to lick his hand.

"Okay," I replied, "We don't have to share everything" and I walked out of the bathroom.

"Yes, you were."

2006-05-18T19:01:00.000-07:00

I had a Pride meeting tonight, our second to last. I'm getting excited for Pride.

Ross needed envelopes stuffed, so Megan and I met Ben (the intern for the Ross Romero campaign) at Megan's house to stuff envelopes. After tonight, I wondered how many envelopes I've stuffed since being involved in politics. Many stuffing parties have made me near an expert in this political art.

Jennie, Russell's girlfriend, arrived from New York tonight. When I got home, Jennie and Russell were actually painting the wall of one of our rooms. I thought it was really nice of them to do that for us (since Brian and I worked late tonight).

I really like Jennie and am excited that she's staying in Utah for the summer. I think that will mean that I get to see Russell a lot more and we can go on fun double dates.

I was looking at old pictures of myself (read Pre-Mexico) and I was amazed at how fat I was. I told Brian, "Man, I was really fat."

He replied, "Yes, you were." It wasn't an answer I expected, but he said "I still loved you lots!" Now that I've lost a lot of weight, it's okay for people to call me formerly fat.

Random Stuff

2006-05-17T16:03:00.000-07:00

I asked Ross about Megan's proposition. Ross told me no because he doesn't want to burn bridges nor give my valuable time to another candidate.

Russell called me today to ask me if he could be put on my insurance. I said yes because it will give me the multi-car discount (plus I'm a nice guy and want to help out my brother).

I talked to Dad about Russell sleeping in the same bed as Jennie. I could tell he was glad that I was enforcing the rule that he would surely have in his house. When I told him that I explained to Russell that Brian and I are different because we live together, share things, etc., I wondered what Dad was thinking. Brian and I have never visited New York together so it's never been a problem. Would my parents let us sleep in the same room? I hope they would because it would seem ridiculous if they made us sleep in separate rooms.

Dad had a grandpa moment when I asked him what he did last weekend. He described in detail EVERYTHING he had done. After he was finished, I said, "Thanks grandpa!" and explained what I meant. He said, "So you were uninterested about a third of the way in?" He and I laughed.

Brian and I sanded and primed until midnight. My arms were killing me because I chose to sand the ceiling that had the nasty texture. It felt so good to finally go to bed.

Ross is the Boss!

2006-05-16T16:34:00.000-07:00

I'm the campaign manager for a guy named Ross Romero who is running for the State Senate. I thought it was really cool when I came across this article in the National Journal that said, A candidate for State Sen, the atty has "got some real potential."

It's nice to be working for someone who is going to go places.

I skipped work, but I still worked

2006-05-16T16:01:00.000-07:00

Last Wednesday, I had breakfast with my friend Brianna at the Original Pancake House. I don't think I've ever had better pancakes besides my father's Mickey Mouse pancakes. I've been wanting to go back ever since, but it's in Sugarhouse and I'm in West Valley (20 minutes apart).

This morning, I tried to recreate what I ate last Wednesday: Pancakes topped with strawberries, whipped cream, and powdered sugar. Brian and I did a pretty good job, though the sausages he made were old and so he had to throw them away.

After breakfast, we went to my Aunt Wendy's house because I offered last week to help her with her painting. Unfortunately, she didn't need that kind of help and instead had us help her with her gardening. I mowed her lawn and Brian helped her plant flowers and weed.

We left Wendy's at about noon and went to a kitchen showroom to pick out cabinets for our kitchen. My uncle Craig can get us nice quality cabinets at 60% off because he sells them. We looked around, took some notes, and went back home to start the real work.

The texture on the walls of our guestroom is horrible! It looks like someone just took a paintbrush and flicked it toward the wall. It's uneven, ugly, and.... well, really ugly. We spent the rest of the day with a belt sander and a wall sander trying to get the nastiness off.

One of the biggest lessons I learned from today is that the dust from sanding gets EVERYWHERE! Being stupid and novices at this, we didn't put up a plastic sheet on the door to keep the dust particles in the room. When we walked out of the room, white dust had settled on everything in our house. The kitchen, our bedroom, our office... it was everwhere, even in places that were far away from the room. We immediately put up a shower curtain to stop any further particles from settling on something. Even Titus had dust in his nose!

At about 6pm, Brian and I showered at went over to my Uncle Charles' house to hook up some of his A/V stuff for him. As we worked, he ate a whole bag of barbecue potato chips. It totally grossed me out and I hope I never can do that because it's so unhealthy.

When we were done there, Brian and I went to Megan's house to discuss some campaign stuff.

Misc.

2006-05-15T15:37:00.000-07:00

I had to go into work two hours late so I could have our stove delivered. The guys who delivered it were the same guys who delivered our refrigerator 3 weeks ago.

Brian and I were going to sand the walls in the guest room, but we went to Lowes and Wal*Mart to get things and didn't get back home until it was too late. We have to get it done this week before Brian's parents come to stay with us!

Domesticity

2006-05-14T22:32:00.000-07:00

Brian and I laid on the couch and watched TV while Titus sat on our lap and slept. It was a perfect domestic moment for me where I realized what a lucky guy I am.

"You need blood tests"

2006-05-14T15:29:00.000-07:00

Usually, a son will call his mother on Mother's day, but I was so busy today that she called me before I called her. We spoke in Spanish for a bit and I apologized that I hadn't sent her gift. I have to go to the store when they are open.

On the way home from Family Home Evening, I mentioned that Russell will have to sleep on the couch when his girlfriend, Jennie, comes to visit. He laughed and then asked if I was being serious. When I told him I was, he got really mad and started trying to talk me out of it. Besides being immoral because they aren't married, I told him that I wasn't going to let my 21-year-old brother sleep in a bed with his girlfriend that he hasn't seen in 4 months.

He argued that Brian and I weren't married so I couldn't use marriage as a reason. I countered that while marriage isn't an option for us, we live like a married couple. We have a house together, share a checking account, and have stupid arguments over the littlest things.

For the rest of the night, Russell only said, "F*** you" to me and was overly nice to Brian to spite me. I blew it off and felt like my father probably did when we were younger.

Family Home Evening Lesson

2006-05-14T09:35:00.000-07:00

Russell and I were in charge of family home evening and spent an hour trying to decide what to do. I had the idea of talking about my favorite phrase, "See God in others", but Russell (and Brian) said that it was a rehashing of my lesson last year.

We decided to do the lesson on giving. We had a stack of 40 notecards and wrote an object on each (vacation, Xbox 360, bottle of bleach). Everyone got a card and the goal of the game was to get something you wanted. The point at the end was that it's easier to give something away that you don't like rather than something you do. I related my story about yesterday's food drive.

Usually in a food drive, I've give stuff that I don't use/need. While I was making a bag, I noticed my favorite kind of Rice-a-roni: Cheesy Rice. I didn't want to give it away, but I thought about the recipient.

34 Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world:
35 For I was hungered, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in:
36 Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me.
37 Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungered, and fed thee? or thirsty, and gave thee drink?
38 When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee?
39 Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee?
40 And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.
(Matthew 25: 34-40)

I felt badly that I was giving the least amount to the least of my brethren. If I were donating food to Christ, Cheesy Rice would be near the top of my list. I put it in my bag and felt better about doing the right thing.

State Democratic Convention

2006-05-13T15:32:00.000-07:00

Russell came over last night and went with me to the Democratic State convention at the Salt Palace. Ross wanted me to round up some volunteers to get people to help his campaign.

When I got there, Karen Hale wanted to meet with Ross and I to talk about his Senate 7 race (Karen Hale is the current Senator). We went into the large auditorium and started discussing the race. In the middle of our meeting, Marcie Smith-West approached us and said, "Can I borrow your campaign manager for minute?" She wanted me to help pick up some brochures that a candidate had put on all the seats in the auditorium.

I couldn't believe that she would ask me to help in the middle of a meeting. I think Marcie sees me as an errand boy. She never would have asked someone who ranks higher on the "importance" scale. I was slightly offended but got over it. I told her that I could help when I finished with the meeting. While I certainly could be described as an errand boy in the past, I'm trying to move away from that charaterization.

One of the things that I like least about politics is the fakeness that occurs. People say, "hello" to people that they despise over stupid reasons. If someone supported someone else's opponent in a past race, one or both of them might not like each other. People need to grow up and realize that we're all Democrats working for the same thing. The pettiness of some people makes me sick.

After the convention, Brian and I spent the day running around the valley and looking for a stainless steel stove. We finally found one that we really liked and Brian got the salesman to give us free shipping. I can't wait until we get it!

Jefferson-Jackson Dinner

2006-05-12T15:30:00.000-07:00

I bought some orange juice for Brian yesterday so he'd be healthy enough to accompany me to the Jefferson-Jackson dinner. He got mad at me when he found out that I bought Sunny Delight instead of orange juice. I thought they were the same.

It didn't really matter because Brian felt better (Sunny D works!) and we went to the downtown Hilton to attend the dinner. I love fancy dinners mostly because of the atmosphere and (and the bread). It's especially fun when I'm with Scott because he and I quietly make inappropriate comments to each other. It makes the event less stuffy and puts an ironic twist on the night.

The executive director of the State Democratic Party came up to me and told me he enjoys reading my blog. The vice chair of the State party told me to send him the link to my blog so he could start reading it. I'm flabbergasted as to the reasons these people want to read my blog. Is my life that interesting? I don't think it is, but I'm very lucky to have the life I do have. I find it exciting for myself, but not interesting enough for others to read about.

One of my favorite moments from the night involved a lovely woman named Sheryl. When she first saw Brian, she looked at me and said, "He's hot!" While I never look for validation in the hottness that is my boyfriend, it's nice to hear it from others. Brian doesn't have a face that only a boyfriend could love.

We left during the last part of the last speaker and headed over to a "Commitment Expo" that the Hotel Monaco was hosting. We arrive at the tail-end of the expo and there were only a few people there. After looked at what people had to offer, I realized that straight people do weddings much better than the gays. They've done them for thousands of years and are experts.

Lesson Learned

2006-05-11T15:29:00.000-07:00

When I lived in Rose Park, it was very easy to make Pride meetings. Right after work at 4500 South, I'd drive north on I-15. The exit to my apartment was the same exit I had to take to get to the Gay & Lesbian Center where the meetings were held.

Now that I live in West Valley, things are a little more complicated. Right after work at 4500 South, I have to drive back home to let Titus out. Then I have to get on Highway 201, then I-15 to get to the Center.

I arrived at my 6:30pm meeting at 7pm.

After the meeting, I met privately with Troy, the person in charge of beverages. He looked at me and said, "I know you from somewhere." I didn't remember him until he said, "Now I remember you! I yelled at you last year!"

My blog entry from Pride 2005: I arrived (to check on the volunteer) just as she ran out of tickets and was at the mercy of a crowd that wanted to get drunk. I immediately requested more tickets on my radio and told the crowd that they would have to wait momentarily. Most people were nice and laughed about the whole thing; I grabbed a case of water and handed water to these people and thanked them for waiting. One guy, who the water did not appease, got in my face and started making irrational suggestions (You better have 50 stations selling beer tickets next year!!). As I was about to suggest he write up his concerns in an email, he walked off. Lots of people yelled at him saying, "Be nice at Pride!" It was great.

I immediately recognized Troy because you just don't forget people who yell at you like he did. He apologized and said that his temper got the best of him that day. I laughed and said I totally understood. I also told him that all my friends know the story of our interaction. He looked very embarrassed.

I have to say that Troy is the kind of complainer that I have respect for. He hated how the drink lines were long in 2005, so he decided to sign up to be in charge of them in 2006. How many times do I complain about something and not try to change it? How many times do others say that this or that could be better but do nothing? I've learned a valuable lesson from Troy.

After the meeting, I went over to Megan's and made Ross Romero buttons with her and Adam. I had a fun time hanging out with them.

This Friday

2006-05-10T22:24:00.000-07:00

Brian's getting sick. He called me today and asked if I would pick up some orange juice from the store. He can't get sick because we have the Jefferson-Jackson dinner to go to this Friday!

Brian has never attended a dinner/fundraiser with me, so I'm usually asked, "Where's Brian?" by everyone that knows that we're together. It's annoying and I'm so excited that he gets to be my date! I don't think he realizes how excited I am.

If he is sick, I won't make a big deal of it. There will be more that he can go to, but I really wanted him to come to this one. Besides Brian, it will be fun to be at a table surrounded by friends.

Nix

2006-05-10T11:37:00.000-07:00

I want to get my own domain name, probably a boyinsuit and one with my name. When I put in my name (or variations of it), I got this hit:

http://www.jessenix.com - A City Council candidate in Congaree, South Carolina.

I then googled my last name to see what the results would be.

nix.nasa.gov - Provides a single entry point for performing searches for photographs and images at multiple NASA Centers simultaneously.
www.garthnix.co.uk - Author Garth Nix of Science Fiction fame.
www.nixlice.com - Nix Head Lice Treatment is the solution most used by professionals - because it works!
www.nixhealth.com - Offering a broad range of quality health services to patients, employers, and managed care purchasers in Texas.
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nix - Nix (also known as Näcken, Nøkken or Nixe) are water creatures in German and Scandinavian.
www.nix.nu - Genom spärregistret NIX-Telefon kan konsumenter göra känt att de inte önskar få marknads-, försäljnings- eller insamlingssamtal per telefon.
www.studionix.com - Studio Nix is the studio of animator, director, artist and musician Jonathan Nix.
mse.stanford.edu/faculty/nix.html - Webpage of Dr. William Nix, professor of Materials Science and Engineering at Stanford University.
www.mauinix.com - Offers complete line of surfing needs, including t-shirts, hats, surfboards and wax.
www.drnix.com - Come visit David Nix, DDS, a Dallas County family and laser whitening dentist who is knowledgeable in the art of orthodontics.
www.patricianix.com - Artist
www.nixelectric.com - Nix Electric Inc. is a manufacturing, repair, and service company of distribution and power transformers.
www.peppernix.com - Photojournalistic wedding photography based in Salt Lake City and available nationwide.
www.nixworks.com - Features a calendar of events and artistic information for the artists Michael Nix and Tracey Physioc Brockett.
www.cranfordnix.com - Cranford Nix was an amazingly talented songwriter. This website is dedicated to his memory and his great music.
www.nixontimeprinting.com - Graphic design, typesetting, and offset printing.
www.lorinix.net - Photographer who bends the line between truth and illusion.
www.nixdesign.com - Web Design company
www.charlesnix.com - Lawyer
www.nixsoftware.com - A suite of native general purpose components for Borland Delphi and C++Builder (formerly NAG Components).
www.drivernix.com - Driver and Nix court reporters, court reporting agency in Phoenix Arizona
www.oklahomainjurylaw.com - The Law Office of Nix and McIntyre is committed helping meet the legal, economic, physical, and emotional issues that result from personal injuries.

A Homo and his Auntie

2006-05-09T14:15:00.000-07:00

I love going to my Aunt Wendy's to mow her lawn. Not only do I get great conversation and food, but I feel appreciated by her. It's nice to help people when you know they really, really appreciate it.

Wendy took me to a Mexican resturant in appreciation for mowing her lawn. Five minutes after sitting down, this is what we heard from the booth next to us:

"That's gay!", "I thought he was being gay", "It was so homo!", "Don't be a fag."

I smiled at Wendy and she smiled back. People never know who is around them and can hurt people by what they say. I was more amused than offended because I don't ever hear people talking like that.

When they got up to leave, I could see what they looked like. It was two teenagers, a mom and dad, and a little girl. It was disappointing that the parents permited that type of language in a public resturant.

The Gays

2006-05-09T11:08:00.000-07:00

My aunt Carolyn called me this afternoon to get my new address. After I gave it to her, she asked, "Should I address it to both of you?" When I replied yes, she said, "How do you spell Brian's last name?"

I thought it was really nice and considerate of her to ask me.

When I went to Aunt Wendy's house tonight, we were talking about Richard (Brian's step-dad) and she referred to him as my "father-in-law."

I think Wendy realizes that Brian and I are practically married. The only thing that he and I don't have is a marriage licence. We share a bank account, a house, a cute dog, and love each other.

That being said, I still want a wedding. Or a vacation where we travel for 3 months around the world.

A Housewife with a House!

2006-05-08T09:33:00.000-07:00

I started my regular schedule at work today. 9:30am to 6pm Monday through Friday. I liked last week's schedule more since I only worked 4 hours in the morning and had the rest of the day off. If only I was paid $20 an hour...

I talked to one of my co-workers Travis about a business opportunity that he's doing that I'm interesting in. He gave me the phone number of a contact of his that I'm going to call this week.

When I got home, Richard and Brian had been working the whole day on the bathroom. Being the new housewife that I am, I made them sandwiches and called for them to come and eat. I like my newly domesticated role because its prim, proper, and so Bree Van de Camp! Now if we could only get my house to look like hers...

I washed the walls and the ceiling of the room that we gutted on Saturday. There was lots of mold on the walls and it was gross, but I had a good time singing in the empty room that had great acoustics. Johnny Cash, Coldplay, Black Eyed Peas, and Earth, Wind, and Fire all kept me company.

Baby Blessing in Grantsville

2006-05-07T14:10:00.000-07:00

I drove out to Grantsville, Utah, to attend the baby blessing of my new cousin Nicholas.

I thought sacrament meeting started at 11:30am when in fact it started at 12:30pm. I was early so I got the chance to sit in on Sunday school.

Five minutes before sacrament meeting started, Uncle Eddie approached me and asked if I would like to be in the circle that blesses Nicholas. I must have given him a confused face because I thought he knew that I don't have the priesthood or am Mormon or have a boyfriend of 3 years (which is considered a sin and would make me unworthy to use the priesthood if I had it).

It was so weird that he asked me, but at the same time, I felt honored that he asked me. It makes me wonder if he knows (and my family knows) that Brian and I are boyfriends. I always thought they did. Whenever Brian isn't with me at family events, most people ask where he is. Doesn't that mean that they know? If they thought he was a "best friend", they surely wouldn't ask that question.

After the service, everyone went to Julia's to eat lunch. I totally pigged out on rolls, brownies, potatoes, and other food that was readily available. I don't think I've eaten like that since I've gotten back from Mexico.

Nicholas!

I learned that one of my cousins is getting a divorce. They were only married for about 2 years and she's 3 months younger than I am. I think it's funny that Brian and I have dated than many of my married friends. At my party on Friday, there was a married couple there and I asked how long they had been married. When they told me a year and a half, I smiled to myself as I thought where Brian and I were at that time. It's so weird to think that people have dated and married in the time Brian and I have been together.

And speaking of my cousin's divorce, people shouldn't get married when they are young because more often than not, it won't work out. I hope my children won't ever think they are one of the lucky ones that will make it because too many people think they are that special.

On the way home, I noticed the beautiful scenery that is Utah and realized how lucky I am to live here.

Ross, Mexicans, and IHOP

2006-05-06T12:47:00.000-07:00

I started the morning early because I had to pick up a filing cabinet I bought off of craigslist. I even loaded the thing into a truck by myself! I love having muscles.

Ross needed help putting together lawn signs, so I bought some stakes at Home Depot and picked up Megan so she could help. I met Ben, the intern on Ross' campaign and really like him. I think he's going to work hard and be great and coordinating volunteers. Plus, I think it will be fun to have my own intern to make him do things. Actually, I think it will be great to have help. I hope I can teach him what I learned 2 years ago.

Megan and I went back to my house on the west side to eat lunch and rest. We watched, "Raise your Voice" with Hilary Duff and loved every minute of it!

The Hispanic community on the west side was having a Cinco de Mayo festival and I thought it would be a perfect opportunity to take Titus out. It was fun to hear only Spanish and understand what was going on. Titus was a very good boy and really friendly with the children who wanted to pet him.

When we first got there, Titus saw another dog and started barking. I firmly told him no and he stopped--he didn't bark after that (even after seeing other dogs). He's so smart! He got tired of walking and kept trying to have me carry him. We went to Petsmart after the park and I spent $72 on Titus. He got a new bed, dog treats, a bone, and some other things. It's fun to spoil him!

Since Brian asked me to do some work on the house today, Megan and I pulled carpet out of one of the rooms. Scott came over and helped too! He's not as delicate as some may think. When Brian came home, we all went out to IHOP to eat.

Cinco de Mayo!

2006-05-05T11:03:00.000-07:00

Happy Cinco de Mayo!

In honor of the commemoration of the victory of Mexican forces led by General Ignacio Zaragoza over the French expeditionary forces in the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862, I decided to host a fiesta for my friends that I met in Mexico. I sent an email to everyone on Wednesday and asked them to RSVP, but only Kristen and Sara did. I called some people last night and many couldn't come. At first, I was disappointed because I wanted many people there, but then I realized that a small party would be fun too.

Since I don't have a oven, I went to Bed, Bath, & Beyond to buy a rice cooker (cause I'm cooking Mexican food for everyone). After browsing this amazing store for 20 minutes, I went back to the rice cooker section and picked one out. It will be so much fun to come back when I have money to blow! Once I stopped at Party America for some decorations, I returned home to get ready.

Austin and his girlfriend arrived first (immediately after I got out of the shower). I expected them to be fashionably late, but it was fun to have them around early and help me a little. Kristen and her friend came too and Kristen even brought me a housewarming gift! I thought it was especially nice of her.

Brian surprised me by coming home early from work. He was supposed to work until 9pm, but he came home at 7:30pm and I was so excited! I don't think he knows how much I love when he's home rather than at work, especially for fiestas that host!

I had a lot of fun tonight. My meal wasn't as good as I wanted it to be (I used a roast for meat and it tasted like a roast, not like Mexican food), but everyone politely said they liked it. When we were done eating, we were just standing around talking because I didn't have anything planned after dinner. I felt like an idiot as I went to grab some notecards to make up a game on the spot. Brian saved the day when he suggested playing Cranium. While it didn't go with the Mexican theme, it surely saved my party from being boring and unforgetful.

Doug, Brian's dad, came at about 10pm to give Titus to us. Because we had guests over, I told Brian that Titus needed to stay in the garage. Brian said that I was mean and told me that I didn't love Titus.

Overall, I think tonight was a lot of fun. After hearing lots and lots about Austin's girlfriend Melissa, I finally got to hang out with her and get to know how fun she is. When they were leaving, Austin and Melissa mentioned that they wanted to go on double dates with us. I think it will be fun to go on couple dates again because they are so much fun! When we told them that couples that double with us usually break up, they said they will be the first to stay together. I hope that's true because they are really cute together.

Melissa, Austin, Dan, Sara

Cute Brian!

Pride meeting, annoying people, and victims

2006-05-04T20:26:00.000-07:00

I met Megan at the Salt Lake City Library to inspect the site for Pride. Since last year the volunteer area wasn't optimal, I want to make sure this year is much better. I hope Jere signs off to my request.

Megan and I met with Jere from 5:30pm-6:30 and then we had our regular pride meeting. I like to think of myself as a person who gets along with everyone, but there is one person on the pride committee that drives me nuts. She always has an opinion, is loud, and tries to make a funny comment all the time.

During one part of the meeting, Jere was explaining something to the group that he had already explained to Megan and I. Because of this, Megan and I were quietly discussing other aspects of Pride while Jere talked. The woman whom I'm writing about looked at us and told us that we were being a distraction and she couldn't hear Jere. I politely replied, "Maybe you should stop listening to your ipod." Up to this point, the woman was listening to her ipod! Besides being disrespectful to the attendees of the meeting, keeping your ipod headphones on during a meeting is dumb.

At another point in the meeting, Jere was discussing the importance of the parade route. Everyone kept talking about how important this exact parade route was, so I asked Jere why it was so important. Jere gave me some answers that made little sense until he found one that logistically justified the parade route.

After I asked my question, this woman looked at me incredulously. The she started her victim's diatribe, "We're not going to move our parade to some small, out of the way street", "We're not second-class citizens who have to move the 2nd largest parade in the state", "This parade route is historic! We used to walk from the state Capitol." Basically, her reasons were that the gay pride parade needs to be visible and if it were moved, everyone would feel inferior.

I had to roll my eyes at the continued victimization that gays hold onto. We'd be second class citizens if the parade was moved to 5th south? C'mon!

Jere also gave me another reason that the parade route has to stay the way it is: it comes close enough to Mormon church headquarters without actually marching in front of the Mormon temple. Basically, gay people who once were Mormon feel better about having a gay pride parade near their old church because, basically, it's thumbing their nose at their them.

Megan and I came up with a button some people should wear: I'm gay and I'm a victim.

Goin' to Grandpa's

2006-05-04T07:54:00.000-07:00

Instead of going to work at 8am, I went with Brian to my grandparents house to cut the wood for our closet.

When I knocked on the door at 8:45am, it took my grandma a few minutes to come to the door. My grandpa said, "When you're retired, you can get up at any time you want and it's usually not early." I'm not used to this because my grandparents used to always get up early. Ever since my grandmother's stroke three years ago, they've taken things slower.

I commented to Brian that their house had the odd smell of old people. He laughed and said that I sounded like my mother since she's said the same thing. I don't like my grandparents getting old because I don't remember them that way. It will be weird when my parents start to get really old.

My grandpa helped Brian and I cut wood into appropriate sized pieces on his table saw. Grandpa hung out with us, talking to us about the house purchase and politics. I thought it was funny that he was helping his gay grandson and his boyfriend building something for their house. I love my grandpa!

I should put my T-Mobile phone in a Crockpot

2006-05-03T12:09:00.000-07:00

I stayed at work all day since I didn't have any work to do at the house. It was my first full day back since I've been taking half days to work on the house.

Since we don't have an oven, I put a roast in the crockpot this morning and later came home to a wonderful, BBQ smell. I shredded the beef and put it on hamburger buns and it was delicious! I'm going to use the technologically advanced crockpot more often.

After we ate, Brian and I drove up to Roy, Utah, to pick up a washer and dryer from his Aunt and Uncle. When we get it hooked up, I want to see if I can do laundry all the time so we always have clean clothes. Plus, I want to iron Brian's work clothes so he doesn't have to anymore.

On the way back from Roy, my phone made the noise it does when someone has left me a voicemail. No one had called, so I was a bit confused as I started to listen to it:

"You have 4 new messages." Four new messages?

After I listened to my voicemails, three of which were from yesterday (and should have been returned yesterday), I received some text messages from May 1st and 2nd. I'm going to call T-Mobile and ask for a discount on my bill.

Vacillating Gender Roles

2006-05-02T21:29:00.000-07:00

I felt like such a man today! I drove a truck to Lowe's to get supplies to build our closet. I measured the wood and hauled around 5 huge pieces. It was awesome!

Then I felt like a woman. Before I left the house, I planned out dinner for the rest of the week. We don't have a stove or oven right now, so I had to plan exactly what to eat so we won't go hungry (or eat out everyday). I went grocery shopping with my list and picked up everything. It was so fun!

The winds will be breaking

2006-05-02T14:19:00.000-07:00

Air conditioning was installed today!

The house doesn't have AC or a swamp cooler, therefore it was important for us to get some kind of cooling system before summer hits. When the AC guy came over last week to do an estimate for another issue (installing a gas line for our oven and dryer), Brian asked him to also estimate how much AC would cost.

When he gave the estimate to Brian and Richard (Brian's stepdad who is helping us with EVERYTHING), Richard said that he'd pay for AC because we "just needed it." Richard is one of the nicest guys I've ever met.

I was fine with toughing it out this summer, but I'm glad that we now have it. I remember when I lived at 1775 Kensington and only had an ill-working swampcooler. Egh. Way too hot.

Letting my feelings control my attitude

2006-05-02T12:54:00.000-07:00

The master bedroom in our house doesn't have a closet. Okay, there is a closet but nothing to hang clothes on. We ripped everything out because we wanted to start from scratch.

While there are many projects that need attention, the closet in our room needs to be built. Currently, we have to go downstairs to one of the rooms we didn't touch where our clothes are hanging (AKA: it smells down there and I want to put caution tape up).

When I got home from work, Brian handed me a piece of paper with a closet he had designed. Measurements and all, it was similar to the design I was thinking about. Some people might have been happy that this part of the work was done for them, but I wasn't. I was disappointed because I really wanted to build this closet by myself. Now I felt that this was Brian's project, that he's in charge, and now I had to be his subordinate.

Many times, I played the subordinate role in Mexico because I didn't care of the outcome. Austin really liked to take charge and I was grateful for that. Now that I'm back in the states, I know what I want and know how to execute the plan. I don't want to take second place to anyone anymore.

On top of feeling like crap, Brian got a little upset with me because I failed to do what he asked concerning the installation of our Dish network last night. Brian gave me certain instructions on what the guy should do and those things didn't get done. I was more mad at myself than at Brian, but when he chewed me out for it today, I became upset at the whole situation.

Focus on the Now

2006-05-02T00:51:00.000-07:00

I feel like I'm in school again. I get behind in my reading, so I start reading everything I've missed. As I'm doing this, I'm falling behind in my current readings. When the semester ends, I find that I'm just behind and I have to cram for the final.

I can't do that with my blog.

I'm going to start blogging like normal and gradually old posts will appear.

Just to satisfy...

2006-04-27T22:53:00.000-07:00

I'm incredibly busy right now renovating our house. Yes, Brian and I finally have a house. I will blog later (I promise) but here's something to keep you satisfied:

I'm behind, but you can help!

2006-04-19T17:35:00.000-07:00

You've probably noticed that I am behind in my blog. I'm currently working on updating it so my postings will be current. I got back from Mexico, went to Canada, and am finally back in the states. Brian and I will be moving on April 29th to our new house so I'm busy getting ready for that.

By the way, if you want to help me move, I'd love you forever. Just give me a call or email me.

Yes, that was cheap but free labor is nice. You will get pizza! Yes, the $5 pizza from Little Caesars. But it's so good!

Chiles en Nogada

2006-03-30T09:15:00.000-07:00

One of the biggest thing I was looking forward to before Mexico was the food. I love Mexican food and I've only increased my love for it living in Mexico. Every day after school, I know my walk home will end with a delicious meal that I wish my stomach had more room for. Mama never makes anything that Austin and I do not like.

That success ended today.

Mama served us, as she called it, an "authentic Mexican dish" that many Mexican's love. It's called Chiles en Nogada. From Wikipedia: "It consists of poblano peppers filled with "picadillo" (a mixture usually containing chopped or ground meat, dried fruit, aromatics, and spices) topped with a walnut-based cream sauce and pomegranate seeds, giving it the three colors of the Mexican flag (red, green, and white)."

While Austin quickly ate his, I had a really hard time. The only things that got me through it were the rice and beans that she gave us. Even with those additions, nuts in any food turn me off because of the texture and I gagged a few times.

Before I came to Mexico, I made a pact with myself that I would everything that was put in front of me. Today, I couldn't do it. I finished about half and then gave up because it was too hard. I figured that since I've eaten everything that Mama has made before today, she wouldn't be offended if I didn't finish my special Mexican dish.

VIP

2006-03-29T23:18:00.000-07:00

I spent about 3 hours in the computer lab trying to type to essays that are due for Professor Mayer. How much did I get done? Not much. The language part wasn’t hard for me—it was coming up with things to say about our excursions. Like when I went to Frida’s house. Even in this journal, I didn’t write much about it because it was boring. Sara Bridge sat next to me in the computer lab and gave me suggestions on sentences. I hate writing about things that I’m not interested in.

I was in a pissy mood after the computer lab and didn’t want to go to the orphanage. I ended up going and having a good time. Kellen Wilson came (along with Sean, Dan, Sara, Kristen, Logan, Sara Bridge and I) and I could only imagine what he might have thought as I played with these kids. I hope he saw that I’m not a pervert who wants to molest children because I’m gay.

After the orphanage, I went to eh Galleria Mall to see a movie. The movie theatre has 2 selections—regular seats or VIP seats. For 90 pesos, you can sit in a theatre with leather lazyboys that recline. Seats are assigned and its so nice! You can even order food for servers to bring you from your seat. I wish they did this in Utah, although the price would probably be around $17.

When the movie ended—“El Crimen Perfecto” with Jodie Foster and Denzel Washington, I wanted a picture taken of me in the nice seats. When Sara handed her camera to tall Sarah, a worker told us that pictures were not allowed. I told Sarah just to take the picture because the guy couldn’t do anything about it. She chickened out and I got mad. Now I can’t scrapbook my VIP experience.

Me preocupo de muchas cosas

2006-03-28T23:16:00.000-07:00

Yesterday morning, I counted how many steps it took to walk to school. It takes about 1500 steps, so if each step is equal to 3 feet, I walk about 4500 feet to and from school (85% of a mile) or 1.7 miles just to get to school. Since I usually go to the gym, I walk 3.41 miles every single day. I think that’s why my leg muscles are bigger.

I talked to Brian on the phone after lunch today. It was really nice talking to him and I miss him a lot. I told him about going to Canada and he was semi-fine with it. His major concern was with money. I also found out that Brian’s not going to take me anywhere when I get back. Originally, we were going to go to Las Vegas to see the musical, “Avenue Q”, but he now says he won’t have the money. I don’t think we’ll go on a vacation this year because Brian bought the house. It’s okay—we’ve been together for over 3 years and we’ve never gone anywhere. It annoys me, but I can’t do anything about it because I don’t have the money. When I’m rich someday, we’ll be able to go places. I just wish Brian would take advantage of our youth. He’s turning 26 this year.

While on the phone with Brian, I said that we should never be apart for this long because it’s hard. He disagreed and said that it will happen again. I said, “No, I know it won’t. And you can’t do it wither” implying that Brian might spend time away from me for a job.

When I said this experience has been one of the hardest things I’ve ever done, he laughed at me. When I said that being away from him is hard because I’ve realized how much I depend on him, he made me feel like I was being over dramatic. I don’t think Brian thinks being apart is that hard—but I do. Because he was so flippant, I want to be able to also be flippant about it, but I never will be able to be. He hurt my feelings because I thought we felt the same way. I tried not to let him know, but he figured out that I was upset. I told him that I wasn’t and changed the subject. Am I being a woman about the whole thing?

I spent 2 hours in the computer lab (instead of going to the gym because my arms are sore) writing an essay about our excursions. One is due for each excursion (3 in total) and I only finished one. I find it very difficult to think and write in Spanish (and even harder to translate, which is why it took me so long).

Tonight, I became really annoyed with myself because I realize how lazy I am. I don’t think I’ve learned Spanish as well as I should have—mostly because there is a guy named Shawn who came here knowing no Spanish and now he speaks better than me. I know I didn’t work as hard as he did. I’m not disciplined or hard working. Also, I was on myspace and found a list of law schools that Tyler Allen was accepted to. Tyler’s smarter than me and the list of schools wasn’t that great. Am I doomed to mediocrity? I think I am and am having a hard time coming to grasp with the concept.

Estoy Ansioso

2006-03-27T23:05:00.000-07:00

I think the last time I counted down the days until something happened was for Boy Scout camp years ago. I’m so anxious to get back home to Brian, resume my life, and get things accomplished. I think 10 weeks away from home is a good amount of time. I only have 11 more days to go. Why does time feel like its going by so slowly?

Professor Mayer has made everyone in our group confused with conflicting information. He says papers are due, then changes the due date, then says some people have to turn in journals and others do not. After school, Austin, Beth, and I went to this office to get clarification on everything. He finally told us what we needed, but on my evaluation, I’m going to write how disorganized he was.

I can see more definition in my shoulders and I’m excited. I hope I continue to work out in Utah, though I probably will have to go by myself. I really want to build my chest so it looks nice. At the gym, or after our workout, Austin and I sat in a steam room. It was really cool cause I’d never been in one before.

I talked to Brian today online. He and I are both excited about our house and talked about the repairs that need to be done. The first things we are going to replace, Brian said, are the bathrooms because they are nasty. I’m excited because as long as the bathrooms are nice, I will be fine.

I watched 24 tonight and it was so good! After it ended, I prayed to God for a second episode—and it worked! I told Austin that it proves that God exists!

Mucho Telivision

2006-03-26T23:00:00.000-07:00

I woke up at 11am and Austin hadn’t come home from last night. Since I was 16 days behind in my journal, I spent most of the day catching up.

Mama said I could use the computer, so I checked my email.

Austin came home and we talked about our weekend. I think it was good for us to be apart this weekend.

I watched CSI: Miami, Commander-in-Chief, and the Family Guy. Sundays are a good TV night.

Mom and Dad called and I got to talk to them for a bit. Mom called really late (9pm) and talked to my Mexican Mama for a bit. It was nice to hear their voices and really cool to talk to Mom in Spanish. She said that my Spanish is really good. I love her lots.

Volcán Mejicano

2006-03-25T18:07:00.000-07:00

I woke up at 6am to get ready to go to a volcano. I made a lunch for myself and caught a taxi with Sarah.

We took a 2 ½ hour bus ride to Toluca, then a 45 minute bus ride to Tejupilco. The bus dropped us off at this place that had 3 makeshift resturants. I used the bathroom and then we then caught a bus that took us to the bottom of where we had to start walking.

We walked for 2 miles to the entrance of the park and found a guy who was willing to drive us up the mountain to the volcano.

He packed everyone in a “refugee” truck while I sat in the front. It was kind of awkward because it was the driver, his 4 small children, and me. I tried to make conversation, but I guess he didn’t want to.

Driving up the mountain toward the volcano was kind of scary. The driver drove very close to the edge of the cliffs—well, too close for my taste. We finally arrived and I was glad to be out of his scary truck.

The hike up the volcano was hard because of its steepness and the high altitude. The view was spectacular because we were so high. It was really cold and I was glad that I brought my sweatshirt. I ate the lunch I made this morning (ham and cheese sandwich) and rested. I made two sandwiches and gave one to Samantha because she didn’t bring a lunch.

On the hike down, I found lots of pomus stones that I put into my backpack. They’ll be good to have later.

For the drive down the mountain, I sat in the “refugee” part of the truck. I was a little scared cause I knew how high we were and how close to the edge we were, but I did a magic trick with cards for everyone to take my mind off of the danger.

An hour later, we all got out of the truck and paid the man. After we paid him, he told us that we agreed to a different price and needed to pay him more. We all knew he was trying to get more money, but it was awkward because we didn’t know what to do. I said we should just walk away and we did. We had paid this guy 900 pesos already.

On the bus ride home, I came up with lots of party ideas. Since Brian and I will have a house, it will be easier to have lots of people over.

When I got home, I was tired and just wanted to watch TV. I saw Terminator 2 and really liked it!

(All photos from today can be found here.)

El Templo de Mormon en Ciudad de Mexico

2006-03-24T17:53:00.000-07:00

During conversation class, Sara Bridge said that she and the blonde Sarah were going to the Mexico City temple. Lauren said that she wanted to go also, so I told Sara that if Lauren went, I’d go. I ran home, made a lunch, got my camera, and met them on the main road Zapata.

On the bus ride, I sat next to Lauren and we talked about our insecurities. I really like Lauren because she’s fun and easy to talk to. I hope we hang out in Utah.

After we got off the bus, we took the subway to a part of the city and then a taxi to the temple. We took some pictures and then went inside the visitors center.

While both Sara(h)’s went to a session inside the temple, Lauren and I went into a room with a couch and TV to watch the new Joseph Smith movie the Mormon church just made. As I watched the movie, I asked myself a question: Do I believe in the Joseph Smith story? I answered yes. It’s hard for me to even understand myself because of the awkward position I’m in. Yes, I do believe that Joseph Smith saw God and Jesus, yet I am not Mormon and believe that gay isn’t a sin. It’s confusing to me and that’s probably why I don’t like to think about it.

After the movie, Lauren and I walked around reading the signs in Spanish. We were actually able to read and understand them all. It was also a lot of fun.

When Sara and Sarah got back, we took a cab to the Mexico City airport to catch a bus to Cuernavaca. While in the airport, I saw a Cinnabon store and immediately bought one. We hadn’t eaten dinner, so I saved it while we went to find food. As we looked, I found a Subway and got really excited! I haven’t had Subway in 2 months and ordered a meatball sub. It was so incredible! Then I ate my cinnabon which was fantastic! Yes, lots and lots of calories, but very good.

We got on the bus back to Cuernavaca and realized that we were sitting in the back of the bus in a special area separated from the rest of the bus by a door. We had our own room with 4 chairs facing each other with a table. We were all excited to be traveling 1st class.

As we drove home, Lauren pulled out my journal and started to read it. I don-t mind since I put most of what I wrote there on this blog. She found an entry about me buying stocks and then we started talking about stocks and financial stuff. They thought I knew lots about finances, and I guess I do, but it was fun to tell them the things that I do know.

I don’t know why, but I told Sara Bridge about my business idea of family history interviews. Her face immediately lit up and she told me that she had the same idea. She told me that she’s really good at the interviews, so I asked her if she would like to go into business together. She said she’d love to and so we started talking about our idea. I’m really excited because I didn’t’ think I’d achieve that goal (starting a business) this year—now I will.

I’m going to Canada 3 days after I get back to Utah to help Sara do an interview with her grandma. I think this is going to be awesome!

Austin me molesta.

2006-03-23T17:43:00.000-07:00

I was in a pissy mood today. I skipped conversation class to be in the computer lab. I think I’m pissy because I’m becoming lazy and I can’t stand that fact. I’m so incredibly lazy and I have a hard time not being lazy. Argh.

Austin is annoying me more and more and I’m glad I only have 2 more weeks with him. Today, as we walked home from school, I said, “I hope Mama makes frijoles for lunch.” H said, “I don-t care what she makes for lunch because I know it will be good” kind of in a snotty way. Maybe I’m interpreting it the wrong way, but it still was annoying.

Austin and I went to the gym and worked out separately because he wanted to work on legs and I wanted to work on my chest. After doing everything but run, I felt really nauseous. I went outside to get some air and even tried to throw up. I couldn’t, so I went back inside to run on the treadmill. I had so much fun running to Britney Spears and Madonna on my Ipod. It felt amazing to have my endorphins going. I actually started to dance as I ran because I was having fun. It was great. I was instantly in a better mood.

BYU and Soulforce

2006-03-23T17:38:00.000-07:00

I wrote an email to the BYU newspaper today. There is this gay rights group called Soulforce that targets religions universities for their “spiritual violence” and the schools unacceptance of gays. I disagree with this groups tactics and wrote this email:

As a former gay student of your great university, I applaud BYU for their respectful message (March 22 Editorial) on the upcoming visit of the Soulforce Equality Riders. While I may understand the message that Soulforce is bringing, I strongly disagree with their tactic of targeting BYU because of its stance of not admitting openly gay individuals.

By trying to be confrontational, Soulforce might miss the great compassion and tolerance of Latter-day Saints. Since the Soulforce visit is inevitable, I hope the BYU community will show them what I see in my LDS family and friends.

BYU has been called the "greatest university in the world" and should act differently from other schools that Soulforce has already visited. While "Christians" at other universities have protested or had members of Soulforce arrested, I hope the BYU community will take the higher road and show them what Christ's love is all about: friendliness, kindness, and unconditional love.

Sincerely,
Jesse Michael Nix

I really hope that BYU acts differently when this group comes to their school (AKA not get them arrested).