Tuesday, June 24, 2008

This Man Brings me Joy

Where is Matt? Everywhere!

http://youtube.com/watch?v=bNF_P281Uu4&feature=user


http://youtube.com/watch?v=zlfKdbWwruY

Hope you love these as much as I do.

Max

The funeral and the eulogy for my good friend.

Firstly let me say that I’m so happy that they didn’t serve him up like an oyster on the half-shell. Because viewing the dead seems barbaric to me. I would prefer to remember someone alive. And happy. Not with that pale mask of death and the blush on.

His wife approached the podium and thanked everyone for attending. Then she told the story of meeting me for the very first time. Which I recall. My ex and I owned some property up near the Wisconsin Dells and we had invited them for the weekend. I wanted to get a look at the girl he was going to marry. She said she was scared shitless of me. That she had always assumed that men gauged all their relationships with women on their relationships with their Mothers. But not Eric. His belief in women revolved around me. This, I did not know. And it was touching.

So she added that I greeted her warmly and gave her a hug. And that I then whispered in her ear, “If you ever hurt my boy? I will hunt you down like a dog and kill you.” The room exploded in laughter. And since the marriage lasted over twenty years? My words must have meant a little something. And then it was my turn.

Like walking the green mile. I hate public speaking. But this was for him. So Barbara just left and let Max take over. I had some notes. I walked, slowly, to the podium and greeted his friends and family. I said “Good Afternoon friends and family of Eric. Anna, thanks for the nice introduction. (Then a nice long pause.) But enough about Eric. SUCH an attention whore. Let's talk about something that really matters. Let's talk about me.” A zinger always helps. “No. Seriously. He has to up and die? And then has the nerve to put me in this position?! Damn. And now I have to picture you all in your underwear? Holy crap! Some of you are old as shit! It isn't pretty people!” Roars. Even his very straight laced mother was in hysterics.

“As many of you are aware, I was Eric’s first girlfriend. Except for that time in Boy Scout camp. But I promised him I would never mention that. So shhhh. I first met him when I was 15 years old. He was a year ahead of me in high school. I thought he was dreamy. He didn't even notice me. Bastard. Then one day I was sitting a field outside of the school reading Plato. And he approached me. He saw what I was reading and said, "Wow. That's some heavy shit." I asked him if he had read it. He said no. But he thought philosophy was kind of pointless. I asked him why he thought that. He said, "Does anything really mean anything." And I was hooked. He also went on to add, after we spoke for a while, perhaps the best thing anything has ever said to me in my entire life. He said, "You know, I don't care what anyone says, I like you." Kismet, I tells ya.”

“We became very good friends. We dated. But there was always an understanding between us that our friendship precluded romance. And I appreciated that. I truly did. It was such a safe place to be.

We dated on and off for several years. But the times I recall him best are when we were both caddies at the private country club in LF. They would give the caddies an hour of play before the golfers got there. I improved my game just by watching him. By the end of the summer I was under 100. Thanks to him. The patience he showed was magnificent. Even after I accidentally hit him in the face with a nine iron. As he was wiping the blood off his lip he said, "Fore!" Now that’s a pro.”

“My Dad actually liked him. Which was most unusual. He hated the boys that came after me. Took me years to realize the reason why. Dad was a young man once. He knew. But he knew Eric was different. He knew Eric was a stand up guy. He even once said to me, “That kid is okay.” Trust me when I tell you that was about the highest praise my Dad ever offered up to a boy he knew was probably trying to make me. Really. He even drank with him a few times. Taught him about scotch. And the relationship was mutual. Eric respected my father. And admired him. And when my Dad died, Eric was inconsolable. I remember calling him to say it was finally over. And he just burst into tears. A man that can cry like that? Does it really get any better? Does it? I don’t think so.”

“When my Dad’s memorial took place and the six bagpipers (yes – I know) played “Amazing Grace”, Eric was the very first person to explode with tears. And his tears brought mine on. And god damn if I didn’t need that to finally happen. His allowing his feelings to flow allowed mine to. Poor Dad had been gone for two months and I hadn’t cried. Not once. But Eric gave me the gift of feeling my grief. And he did that more than once for me.”

“Eric was the godfather to my only child, Nina. And no child ever had a better friend. I remember how she once said to me, “Uncle Eric plays too rough!” He hugged her too tight. He loved her too much. He thought she was the most perfect child on the planet. And told me so. Many times. It was as though she was his own. He even changed poopy diapers when he was around! And when Nina lost her battle with sickness, oh. There are no words for the pain we mutually shared. And yet through that pain, there was the joy of having the privilege of knowing her and loving her. And one year later Josh was born. Josh, your father was perhaps the best man I ever knew. I watched him raise you. You were everything to him. When your Dad first got sick? His very first words to me were, “What about Josh?” I told him you would be fine. And you are. You’re your father’s image. If you ever need anything? Anything at all. I’m here for you. “

“And Anna. Sweet girl. You have the gift of Eric in your son. And your soul. I would have loved to dance at your 50th anniversary. But the gifts he gave all of us will remain right here. I know he loved he you. He was one picky mother fucker.”

“And in closing, I would like to say that I imagine a day when we all enjoy a banquet of good food, good drink, good conversation and great story telling. I don’t believe in God. I don’t believe in heaven. But I believe that our souls meet again. And again. And to meet Eric’s soul again will be the sweetest moment ever. I thank you.”

And Max got a standing ‘O’.

Thursday, June 19, 2008

Happy 60th Birthday Mr. Nick Drake

"If my music ever did anything to one single person, it would be worth it."

And it was sir. It was SO worth it!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9IUqN9ozmhw

I wish depression would just take a fucking hike. Once and for all. We've lost so many excellent people to it. Thanks for the memories.

Much love,

Max

Oh Man. I needed a good laugh today.

Here it is. (cough) Penis!

http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/showbiz/film/article1313387.ece

For my very first boyfreind. Who died today.

We all knew it was coming. Not a big surprise. Sadly, cancer is never a big surprise. But when your wife, Anna, called to say you had ended your life your own way? Oh man. What a man you were. You didn't take anything from anyone. Ever. And you made your cancer your bitch. God damn you. You knew it. You just knew it. You made a move. No one ever owned you.

I recall the first time we talked. I was a geeky, nerdy goof ball. My face was always in a book. I wasn't well liked. I tended to say what I meant. Still not a big crowd pleaser. We were sitting in a huge row of grass and fields outside where the football guys practiced. We discussed philosophy. I was reading Plato at that point. And you asked me, "Does anything really mean anything?" And I knew we were soul mates. And you topped it off with perhaps one of the best things anyone ever said to me. Ever. "I don't care what anyone says. I like you." Heh. The seal of approval.

Eric. I remember. I can still taste you on my lips. You were the first man to make me feel like a woman. And I thank you for that my darling. And we stayed friends for so many years. You disapproved of my husband. And you know what? You were right. It wasn't a good fit. It lasted.
But it was hard.

You were my child's godfather. How you loved her. I still feel so much for your adoration of her. As if she was yours. And when you finally became a father? How wonderful you were. I remember a little thing. Your son didn't like getting water in his eyes. And you said, "Shake it off!"And showed him to just wipe his eyes and move on. I know it's small. But it's actually so big. You didn't want him to sweat the small stuff. What a fine man.

So. To you. My dear old friend. I raise a glass. And I toast you. Every good thing comes to an end. Sad but true. But you made a choice. And forever will I admire, adore, love, worship and have more faith in people from just knowing you. You made my childhood a better place my dear. I love you. And I always will. You're not gone. You're still here. I like to think that one wonderful day - you, Nina, our parents, our departed freinds and lovers will sit down to a dinner. And we'll tell old stories. And new ones. And it'll be a fucking blast.

RIP Eric. And if you remember, and I bet you do. We saw Buckley at Metro. And we were both profoundly moved by this. Goodnight dear man. I do so very much hope we meet again. Forever and a day my love. Forever.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AratTMGrHaQ

Sunday, June 15, 2008

I Will Yelp No More, Forever

Guys! Knock it off. Bjorn was my swan song.

I'm done. Finished. Finito. End of the road. Dead. Am no more, etc.

And I certainly would NEVER make fun of something as serious as alcoholism. I've had my own demons in those regards. It's about as amusing as a pile of rotting bodies.

I'll look in on occasion. And every now and then I need an address and it's a quick way to find it. But... no.

And also, whoever lied about my having mulitiple accounts is a despicable coward. And shame on them. Shame on you Lady or Sir. It'll come back to you. It always does.

Max

Another Reason I Love Obama

He not only talks the talk. He walks the walk.

http://www.dailykos.com/story/2008/6/14/213149/670/890/536096/

Saturday, June 14, 2008

Nick Cave - You Should Get to Know him, if you don't


Here's "People Ain't No Good." I would like to dedicate it to several Yelpers. You know who you are. And to the girl who is piggy-backing on my posts to beef up her blog? You have got to be kidding me. You hate me and then you use me for your own purpose? What bloody nerve you have. Shameless. Do it again. I dare you. You're not going to enjoy it when I get angry. That's a promise from Max. And Max keeps her promises. So.... just... don't.

On Becoming An Old Girl

A friend reminded me that my birthday is coming up. I hadn’t really been thinking about it much. Probably because the business of just getting through the days lately has been a difficult proposition. But it made me think.

On the 26th of this month I will turn 47. I remember when I thought 30 was old. Now that’s funny. Because I now find 30 to be so damn young.

Now. Some of you may recall this. Or be familiar with it. Despite your youth. Or your dotage.

“Never trust anyone over 30.” Although Jerry Rubin is credited with the phrase. The credit actually goes to Jack Weinberger, a civil rights activist who coined the phrase in 1964.

I have a new spin on this phrase. Never trust anyone under 30. Time and again I have been proven right in this thought. Children will always act as children do. And, frankly, some children are just plain mean. They don’t “get” it yet. All of life is about them. (Please note that I am speaking from experience and in generalities – It’s not 100% perfect). But as I search blogs, read what people have to say in social rooms, hell, even while I play the occasional game of poker, I have begun to see an alarming trend of young men and women with very little social conscious. And manners that make monkeys throwing poo look downright charming.

Some of you kiddies need to get familiar with a stop-check. Before you post something, read it. If it’s all about you. All about your needs. All about hate. Any of these things? Put a lid on it junior. Because it ain’t going away. It’s going to be floating out there in cyber space long after you're gone. How would you like your grandchildren to read the hate you spewed forth one day?

We can’t all love each other. That’s a fact. But hating in the plural is unacceptable and ugly. Grow up. Show some manners. And remember that you reap what you sow. That’s the gift I desire for my birthday. A little civility. A little kindness. And a whole lot of shutting the fuck up if you have nothing good or meaningful to say.

Thursday, June 12, 2008

Max is not down for the count. By any means.

Hey. A few of you have expressed your worry about me. And I want to let you know... I'm okay. Truly. Have a little faith in me. I'm a fighter.

So a little time down? Not too bad. And to Joanne... there really aren't words for what you're allowing me to do right now. You saved my life. Literally. I will be greatful for that till my last breath.

To Lisa: Wow. You simply amaze me. Not just your kindness. Which would be more than enough for anyone. But for your understanding. Your honesty. Your ability to just listen and not judge. You are remarkable. And you have moved me. In another life we must have been lovers or children or mother and child. You're a godsend.

Michael? Thanks for you kind words and your advice. And your friendship. Saving me from libel suits is a great thing. And listening to my rants? A saint I tells ya!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8UkKTlzyLhQ

Tuesday, June 10, 2008

Alpahbitch - This one is for you!

Told you I would get to you. I always keep my promises. You've been a true and good friend. And I'm honored to know you.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xDQE4UMVhEQ

Another Girl Crush - Long Time


I will admit that I am a sucker for a pretty face. Actually, I like all kinds of looks. Quirky? Sure, why not? Natural beauty? Bring it. Odd beauty? Well, okay then.

It’s all good. Truly. I would hate to think of the things you might miss out on by judging everyone by their looks. Doesn’t seem quite right. Does it?

But when I’m girl crushing? All rules get tossed out the window. For me it’s mostly about the eyes. So I present to you… one of the most beautiful women on the face of the earth as Max knows it.

Miss Lauren Graham. Yes. Lorelei Gilmore. Yes, I was a fan of the show. Not the little nincompoop that played the daughter. I was all about the Mommy. That face! And she knew how to deliver a comic zinger like nobody’s business.

Amatures!


100 days. Please. The ex and I went about three years at two or three times a day. Stale? I hardly think so. Sore? A little bit. But in a good way.

http://origin.denverpost.com/breakingnews/ci_9540129

For two of my newest friends

Kelly and Tim: I'll be there. You've got a friend.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wftbahypdAA&NR=1

Thanks for reaching out to me. I'm so happy to be a friend to both of you.

Love,

Max

Saturday, June 7, 2008

Sisters - All women are Sisters

“I have to tell you, I am beyond grateful to you. Your blog really touched a nerve with me, and stirred up some incredibly strong feelings and realizations.”

A new friend sent this to me in an email tonight. And I’m so delighted. One voice? No. So many voices made silent by violence. And yet….

A chorus sings! Voices heard. Beautiful voices made to be listened to.

Am I happy that I was a victim of violence? No. Am I happy that I can give other victims a voice? It’s beyond happy. It’s wonderful. It’s amazing. It’s (a word I normally don’t use) awesome.

As I have said before: If I can give one victim a voice? My work is almost done. Almost. All victims of rape and violence need to be heard. Both men and women.

Bless you dear for making my night. And for coming back to life. And for just being you. “Life is a banquet and most poor suckers are starving to death.” But not us. Not us.

We are all beautiful. When we allow it. So let us flower. Let us bloom. Let us be as strong as we are beautiful.

And here's the flower song from Lakmé to enjoy. (Thanks K.)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CX-6Ej2lnwg

Mug Shot Friday

Thank you Smoking Gun. Thanks everso. Number 4 is my favorite. He has a sammich.

http://www.thesmokinggun.com/archive/years/2008/0606082mugs1.html

Thursday, June 5, 2008

Max is feeling sassy

Poor Hillary. Such a lonely woman. Such a sad woman. Such a loser.

http://www.dateacougar.com/?s=u&u=hillary

Tuesday, June 3, 2008

And now for something completely different...

Recut trailers are cracking me up.

The Shining:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KmkVWuP_sO0

You Have Got to Be Shitting Me

Hey! I've got an idea! Let's put Hitler on display!

http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5gOwL5INYpYoIVIpSuMPMDO6scNHQD912SI700

How is this possible in Berlin? My understanding of German law regarding any and all things Nazi related is pretty harsh. With good reason.

While I believe, strongly, in First Amendment rights? This feels SO very, very wrong.

The Catholic Church can Kiss my Ass

Yeah. I said it.

http://www.suntimes.com/lifestyles/religion/985091,pfleger060308.article

Reverend Pfleger gets removed from his position. A suspension of sorts. But still.

Let’s discuss this. Firstly the odds: Catholic Church – Billions of dollars. Children raped and molested by priests – not so much.

Damage control? I think not.

The church has gotten away with an amazing, disgusting amount of utter bullshit. But when an activist priest dares to make a political comment – fuck him.

The Reverend Pfleger has done more for his community than the Catholic church ever did for the victims of abuse BY the church. I say all good people should stand up and denounce the church for taking a stand on politics. Where were they when children where being abused? Counting their gold?

Fuck this shit. I am sick of it. Either you support your entire community or you do not. It’s not brain surgery for the love of god.

Robert Frost - The Road less vandalized

This amused me.

http://www.cnn.com/2008/CRIME/06/02/frost.house.ap/index.html

Sunday, June 1, 2008

Another "lost" post. Big Night review

Big Night (1996)

First, a warning. If your idea of good Italian food is the Olive Garden, YOU ARE NOT ALLOWED TO WATCH THIS MOVE! EVER! I will put a beat-down on your ass that will have you crying for your mommy. Seriously. Olive Garden, what are you thinking?

This is a lovely film. Subtlety nuanced. Meaningful. Beautiful. And there’s food too! Who could ask for more?

Tony Shalub plays Primo, a fussy but amazing chef. His talents are sadly unappreciated in the little town he and his brother, Secondo, (Stanley Tucci) have chosen to place their restaurant. Business is bad. And it looks as though they may soon have to be closing.

In this town is another restaurant run by Pascal (Ian Holm). Who Secondo believes to be a friend. His place is popular and crowded. The food isn’t authentic. But the people don’t care. Pascal is an extremely rich man due to the popularity of his place.

Secondo decides the best thing to keep the restaurant afloat is to garner a loan from Pascal. But he refuses to loan the money. Instead he counters with an offer of bringing his good friend, Louis Prima, to their place, along with the press. Secondo is overjoyed. He’s convinced that when Prima comes to the restaurant both he and Primo will become famous. This will keep their restaurant running and change their fortunes.

They decide upon a feast fit for a king. Everything authentic. Everything delicious. Several courses. Many wines. Watching Primo cook is like a beautiful love letter. You just want to read it again and again and again. Shalub shines as a chef in this movie.

There’s a love story in this movie too. But it’s not nearly as important as the end of the movie. The brothers love for each other is tested. But it survives. I don’t want to give anything away, if you haven’t seen it. And if you haven’t seen it, please do.

But I will give away the menu:

Zuppa; Seafood Risotto; Timpano (which is AMAZING); Roasted chicken and ducks with garlic and herbs, Whole roast Salmon; Artichokes; Asparagus; Sautéed baby onions & grapes. And a whole roast pig. This is from memory. But it’s mouthwatering. And if good food makes you randy, this is total hardcore porn.

And here's a little Louis Prima for your listening pleasure:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sB9M-904FL4