Chris Redding

HAPPY BIRTHDAY: CHRIS REDDING

I'm so grateful to have him in my life. For those of you who didn't know, Chris & I were domestic partners for almost 5 years. Regardless of the past, he has changed my life for the better.

Chris: You are an inspiration to others, someone to rely on, an amazing source of talent & and such a beautiful person.

Keep smiling and touching the lives of the people who surround your life...you make it an effortlesss journey

Sigmoid Diverticulosis

Clarification: To free confusion; to make understandable

Last year I experienced extreme discomfort on my upper right leg on several occasions because I thought I had a problem with my lymph nodes. In May, I woke up morning, rolled out of bed and attempted to walk to the bathroom when I collapsed. I could not put pressure on my right leg. Long story short, Brooke and Matthew (Brooke's BF at the time) brought a wheelchair (how embarrassing) and drove me to the North Shore University Hospital in Forest Hills. After 6-8 hours of hospital time (mind you, Brooke and I sang and laughed 1/2 the time) they performed a CAT Scan, drew blood and examined the upper right leg.....Go figure, it was a swollen lymph node that was causing all the problems. They prescribed leviquin and said I should consider a biopsy to make sure it's not early signs of lymphoma. So, not only have I never been to the emergency room, I've never had a CAT scan, and I've never heard "cancer" in a sentence in relation to me. I took the antibiotics and miraculously the swelling went down. After all was said and done, the surgeon I was recommended for the biopsy said I have nothing to worry about. OY VEY! Happiness is when you find out you're actually okay....Until....

A few months down the road, the discomfort returned. I was nervous, uneasy & scared, went to the doctor (long story but my doctor was unavailable so I went to another) where he decided to test my blood for everything (HIV, Chlamydia, etc) to see if that could be causing the discomfort. Well, happily (or unhappily) I was told all the results were fine however I had walking pneumonia. He put me on a very strong antibiotic and then did a physical examination. He found what appeared to be a lump on my right testicle and immediately sent me to a radiologist for a sonogram. Again, another first. The ultrasound experience was like no other. I had no idea what to expect, but since this type equipment is used examine the fetuses of pregnant women...and other things such as my testicles...I have to laugh...sorry, you know my humor. But seriously, I felt an extreme amount of stress, thoughts running through my mind as I lay on the examination table...crazy, huh? After discovering my testicles were fine (I know, laugh as you will) and I finished the antibiotics I STILL had discomfort in my leg. The doctor sent me back to the radiologist to have a chest extra and another CAT scan to determine the problem. And that's when I discovered hernia as the culprit.

"Clarification" that it was indeed hernia was comforting because it's not a life threatening disease, but also distracting because in the report it states that I have a "nonobstructive right renal calculus & sigmoid diverticulosis without evidence of diverticulosis" So, I have a kidney stone and there are pockets or projections extending out from the colon. Well, that's more information than I needed, but something to deal with. Once I have more of a grasp on it I will definitely take a proactive approach in bettering my situation. Until then, I will continue to smile, I will continue to laugh, I will continue to sing and wholeheartedly, I will continue to stay strong.

Bathroom Drama

Okay....as much as I love my building in Forest Hills the plumbing is to be desired. For those of you who are unaware, I've been dealing with leaky water issues for the past 6-8 months. Dominic (the Super) thought the investigation of who was at fault was complete (5th floor resident), however Saturday morning (once again) it sounded like a waterfall was flowing through the walls. My beautiful lighting fixture in the hall was filled with water as well as there was leaking from the ceiling in the bathroom. This morning, I had to take everything out of the bathroom (artwork, etc) because the building plumber was going to be working on the problem. I REALLY hope they resolve this soon......thank god I'm still able to shower. :-) OY VEY!

Sunday

In a word....amazing! Sunday morning began with brunch @ Tartine in Greenwich Village with Shawn and his friends Chuck & Matt. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND IT.....great food, quaint atmosphere and cozy. We then decided (spontaneously) to walk around the East and West Village, admiring the architecture and the semi tree lined streets (it is the winter, you know). :-) The fact that the temperature was perfect helped, but signs of rain showers looked promising. We eventually made our way to The Whitney Museum on the Upper East Side. If you're a MOMA fan, then the Whitney is for you, however I wasn't as enthusiatic about certain "modern" aspects that were displayed. I'm really glad I went, but I have a feeling I wont be back. :-) However I LOVED this quote... All landscape is human theatre. All theatre tries to be true reality. Life is mostly acting what is not. Art tries to equate that.

After saying our goodbyes to Chuck & Matthew we had dinner at Rosie & Ting on 4th Avenue (I recommend the Pan Fried Noodles...OMG, so good) where I asked him to be my Valentine...cheesy, I know. He graciously said yes (blush) & then we made our way to see Brokeback Mountain. What a heart wrenching emotional journey....all I have to say is "the shirt" (Shawn held my hand & cried...which was so touching). It takes a real man to show his emotions. He then drove me to my subway stop and kissed me goodnight. What a day! :-)

For The Record

I debated posting my thoughts on significant events based on the feelings of certain individuals. I write (and speak) from the heart and hope what's translated is not offensive nor disrespectful. Everyday is a new day and when I have the opportunity to share my innermost thoughts (serious or not), I take pride in that. It is my wish for those I don't speak to on a regular basis that you'll feel updated on the adventures surrounding my life. Thank you for listening, reading, and being apart of my world. :-)

Mozart

Yesterday was Wolfgang Amadeau Mozart's 250th birthday. Brooke (Toffifay) and her mystery blind date originally from Boston, as well as Shawn (from NJ) & I celebrated appropriately during the Mozart festival at the New York Philharmonic. We saw a concert at Avery Fisher Hall, the home of the NY Phil where the program consisted of: Symphony No 28, Violin Concerto No 4 (With Sheryl Staples), Symphony No 35 "Haffner" & Mass in C K 317 "Coronation" (featuring Celena Schafer, Soprano and the Westminster Symphonic Choir) What an amazing performance!

Shawn and I said our goodbyes to Brooke and headed to Puttanesca, an amazing Italian restaurant in Midtown Manhattan. We toasted with a raspberry merlot, and dined over an assortment of seafood and ravioli in vodka sauce. Besides excusing myself to use the restroom, there was never a lull in the conversation and nothing but smiles and stares. Without divulging too much information, I will say we ended up walking back to Lincoln Center, where I serenaded him with "When I Fall In Love" (no hidden meaning) while we danced under the stars. A first for both of us. After the moment, I walked him to his car and he drove me to my subway stop. He's the perfect gentleman, handsome, and out of the park hysterical.

Somebody

This was inspiring to me this morning.....

I want somebody to share

Share the rest of my life

Share my innermost thoughts

Know my intimate details

Someone who’ll stand by my side

And give me support

And in return he’ll get my support

He will listen to me when I want to speak

About the world we live in and life in general

Though my views may be wrong...

They may even be perverted

He’ll hear me out and won’t easily be converted

To my way of thinking, in fact, he’ll often disagree

But at the end of it all he will understand me

I want somebody who cares for me passionately

With every thought and with every breath

Someone who’ll help me see things in a different light

All the things I detest I will almost like

I don’t want to be tied to anyone’s strings

I’m carefully trying to steer clear of those things

But when I’m asleep I want somebody

Who will put their arms around me, kiss me tenderly

Though things like this make me sick

In a case like this, I’ll get away with it.

Depeche Mode

Cafe Arte

Last night, I celebrated with the marketing staff from The New York Philharmonic our anticipated Post Holiday Gathering. It was originally scheduled in December, however because of the MTA strike, we had to reschedule. We ate @ a quaint restaurant called Cafe Arte on the Upper West Side of Manhattan. And although I was feeling under the weather (my throat was still sore), I enjoyed the steamed mussels, rigatoni pollo pazzo, the flourless chocolate cake & my 2 glasses of red wine described as dark, elegant and lipsmacking. :-) Happiness is a well treated stomach.

Dinner With Brooke Ferris

"A true friend is someone who sees the pain in your eyes while everyone else believes the smile on your face"

Dinner with Brooke @ the West Side Cottage (one of our old stomping grounds in Midtown Manhattan) was a breath of fresh air. I can't believe a whole month passed by without Brooke Ferris, but the moment we saw each other...it was on. We laughed, and laughed, and laughed some more. We cried a little...oh yeah, that was from the hot sauce. Brooke is responsible for the keeping my energy vibrant and alive (hence the time I was in the hospital with a swollen lymph node & we proceeded to laugh and sing for distraction purposes). WOW! What's an amazing friend! Who can say they had fun dealing with excruciating pain in the hospital?

From the Stiffies to Toffifay, from Coco (our inspiration, our pride, our confident) to Chupa Chups with Coco, from Mr. Big to Jiu Jiu Jiu Gee, we have surpassed human comprehension of why we amuse ourselves to the fullest. But "You know what" I LOVE IT! She's the perfect best friend. LOVE YOU Brooke!

Lunch With Rena

Today I met my friend Rena @ Lincoln Center for a quick bite before running over to the New York Performing Arts Library, which is literally right next to my office. I LOVE RENA!!! Every time we have a chance to hang out, without fail, she's brings such an amazing energy to the table. Beautiful, talented, and an incredible person, Rena would bring happiness to anyone who crossed her path. And although the city tends to consume our lives (welcome to New York City), when we reconnect I love that we're able to pick up where we left off. I think it's safe to say I'm grateful to have Rena in my life!

Anyhow, I'm feeling a sore throat and I sound like Kermit the Frog, but I'm still determined to keep my plans with Brooke after work (she just got back from Ecuador and I haven't seen her for a month). Directly following I have to run to Nola Studies for rehearsal (Uptown Express). "It's Alright With Me"

Music Inspires

Without music life would be a mistake.

~Friedrich Wilhelm Nietzsche

Music is your own experience, your thoughts, your wisdom....

~Charlie Parker

Cachinnation

At 6:30am on Sunday I awoke to the sound of the American Idol theme song. Yes, my cell was ringing. :-) My friend Tricia (UCSD) dropped off her boyfriend at JFK and headed over to my place...OY, I was tired. We both (seperately) slept until until 8:30 and then ate left over String Bean Cassorole and Apple pie with ice cream.....Don't ask! Directly following we took pictures and she gave me gifts she picked up in Beijing, China. I loved it. I know our time was brief, but it was GREAT to see her after she's been in China.

Thankfully, after she left I was able to make some creative decisions with the wedding video for R&K. Progress is good! :-)

Later on, I met with Shawn whom I met @ MDC. He was headed back from a mini vacation from Boston and decided to make a detour to Forest Hills to check out the area, see my apartment and take me out to dinner. We laughed more than I can articulate in this description, but it's a wonderful feeling to have that kind of energy fill the room. I think the Elaine Stritch DVD helped (What an amazing performance). What a glorious time! The night ended with me laying in bed, Diego begging for attention (yes, the cat) and a sweet content feeling before heading to dreamland.

Karaoke, Video Editing & Dinner

My weekend began with drinks at Peter's with coworkers from Lincoln Center. It was the first time in a long time I was able to hang out with them. Directly following, I was invited to a Karaoke party hosted by Jamila (friend I met at Angel's party in Sunnyside) at a place called Karaoke One 7 in Chelsea. I asked Mo (Mike, a friend of John and Brians from the Hampton's weekend) if he would accompany me to this "undefinable" gathering. Truly, I had no idea what to expect.....what a bizarre yet fun experience. Jamila reserved a room where 10 of us sang to a plasma TV around a somewhat comfy couch with karaoke tracks and a couple microphones. We then took turns rockin' the house. HIL-arious!! Besides Mike and Jamila, I was surrounded by strangers. Everyone was very sweet & friendly and could sing. YAY! Well, Mike gave it his all. :-) We then spontaneously decided to grab a quick bite at a cute restaurant called Colas and then proceeded to have a drink at the Chelsea Hotel. WOW, a night of endless possibilities. :-)

Today was all about editing Kim and Rob's wedding video (Waldorf Astoria: Wedding project). Believe me when I say I want to get it done ASAP, but obviously it's difficult to put a lot of time into it when I have a full time job, rehearsals, and a social life. The anticipated goal is to have it completed by the end of this month.

I did escape for a bit to my friend Nick's dinner party in Hell's Kitchen, which was delightful. A beautifully organized evening with an amazing assortment of food & wine (Brian from the chorus was there as well). It was also cool to meet Jennifer Barnhart from the original cast of Avenue Q. :-) Great food, great people and in conclusion we ended with a competitive rendition of Trivia Pursuit: Pop Culture. Nick was an amazing host and has always been a GREAT friend! :-)

I'm now sipping on a glass of red wine and I'm ready to turn in. Off to dreamland....

TMI?

After discovering how wonderful blogging can be, I realize that sometimes relaying specific personal information should be reported carefully . Even though this is a forum for free speech and free thinking, discretion (individual choice of judgment) is the key. I thrive on expressing myself as openly as possible, as most of my friends would tell you. If you ever have a question involving judgment or something you need feedback on, impulsive decisions, etc, I might not always regurgitate the answers you want to hear. (A half truth is a whole lie. ~Yiddish Proverb) I look at things optimistically and intently, so ask your questions at your own risk. :-)

The Importance Of Family

Mom & Grandma

Family faces are magic mirrors. Looking at people who belong to us, we see the past, present and future. Gail Lumet Buckley

Family is the first social unit for developing the qualities of the heart. A true family grows and moves through life together, inseparable in the heart. Whether a biological family or an extended family of people attracted to each other based on heart resonance and mutual support, the word "family" implies warmth, a place where the core feelings of the heart are nurtured. Family values represent the core values and guidelines that parents and family members hold in high regard for the well-being of the family. Sincere family feelings are core heart feelings. They are the basis for true family values. While we have differences, we remain "family" by virtue of our heart connection. Family provides necessary security and support, and acts as a buffer against external problems. A family made up of secure people generates a magnetic power that can get things done. They are the hope for real security in a stressful world.

Circle Of Friends

"My friends are my estate."

Emily Dickinson

Chris, Alicia, Dan, Brooke, Elvira & Me

"A friend is someone who knows the song in your heart, and can sing it back to you when you have forgotten the words."

A Weekend In The Hamptons

I spent the weekend in The Hamptons (East Hampton to be exact) with an amazing group of people. John R and Brian M from the chorus hosted, accompanied by Mike B, Leda Z, Mike O, and me, of course. :-)


On Saturday afternoon, we went wine tasting at the Wolffer Winery, shopped around the main area of East Hampton (w/ a celebrity sighting of Christie Brinkley), ate dinner @ Rowdy Hall, and in conclusion, we all drank wine in front of a cozy fire while playing the game interactive game celebrity (Dana Plato, Big Foot, & Lassie were some of the names selected). Awww....good times!!!

We all woke up to a beautiful snowy morning where everything looked picturesque . We ate breakfast (which was wonderful) and attempted to go to the beach...OMG, it was so cold and windy we practically froze to death. :-) But hey, I can say I did it. Oy! We ended our journey by eating at a restaurant called the Smokey Bones in Ronkonkoma. Long Island.

Friendship is precious, not only in the shade, but in the sunshine of life; and thanks to a benevolent arrangement of things, the greater part of life is sunshine (Thomas Jefferson). What an amazing weekend filled with great memories and a peaceful state of mind. I hope we can arrange seeing a symphony all together in the near future.

Friday The 13th

CLICK ON THE PICTURE!

Lazy Night

"Laziness is nothing more than the habit of resting before you get tired." Mortimer Caplan

When was the last time you had a lazy night? You know, a couch, a remote, comfort food, the power of Tivo & no agenda? Last night, my plan to be productive failed miserably directly after cooking, making homemade baked potato soup. While indulging on this spicy delight (I added Jalapenos), I started watching The Closer. Sadly, my ass never left the couch. I continued to watch Lost, Project Runway, Supernatural, and Medium. I was hooked! :-) Since The Apprentice, The Biggest Loser, The Cut, & Rockstar: INXS completed their run for the season, I'm forced to watch shows such as So You Think You Can Dance & Dancing With The Stars. From Zippy's TV Recommendation Hotline, I suggest the following: Monk, Law & Order (Loved Jerry Orbach), Drawn Together, South Park, Huff, and re-runs of the Designing Women & Golden Girls. I also enjoyed Six Feet Under, Queer As Folk, Oz & Sex And The City when they were still playing. I still remember Boy meets Boy & the hysterical WB Superstar. I think anything's possible on television these days. OY VEY!!!

Unfriendly Diego

FYI....this is not Diego. It looks like him, but my cat is actually sweet & loveable. This one is bitter. :-) I was testing this website to see if I could add video clips to my blog, and I can! :-)

Delectation

My Grandmother (I love you) inherently passed down the "forgetful" gene to me. When retaining significant information such as music, appointments, phone numbers, history, (technical info), etc, I'm the man with the memory. I'm referring to common day to day activity: misplacing my keys, wallet, cell phone, stuffed donkey (hehe..I'm kidding). This happens everyday of my life (okay, I'm being a little facetious). Last night was my 2nd date with David & we were supposed to meet at Nick's Pizza in Forest Hills. Well, seeing that I've only been there once my recollection was that is was under the bridge near the historical Station Square, however it was actually a kabaab house. CRAP! Thinking fast, it was actually located at the other end of Austin Street. So, if you know my view on punctuality then you know I was very upset when I was 5 minutes late (and the fact that is was raining didn't help). David was all smiles and wasn't even phased by it, which was a relief. We enjoyed the amazing pizza @ Nicks (which is a lot like the flat pizza @ Imo's in St Louis) and then proceeded to take a walk through the Forest Hills Gardens, where David lived close by. Great guy, great time and he was the perfect gentleman, however not a match for me. Tis life......Can't win them all!

A Little Therapy

I am definitely over extending myself when it comes to social events. (Reminder: New Year's Resolution: You can say no) Last night at 9:30 PM I was sitting on my couch comfortably watching Desperate Housewives (Tivo) when I heard my cell playing the American Idol ringtone. (Cheesy, I know) :-) My friend Jose (Flamenco dancer from Spain) and his friend Angel invited me out to the bar Therapy in midtown. Normally I would say no, but Jose is headed back to Spain in a few days. Oh, the power of Jewish guilt).

You'll be happy to know the E Train was running locally from Forest Hills to Midtown which meant I was in hell & it would take forever. AND as I was leaving the 50th Street station I saw a man fall onto the subway tracks. It took 10 people to help him out. I quickly ran to the subway attendant and told him what was happening. All this and no booze. Oy! Can you imagine? I guess the yellow lines are significant when you're trashed out of your mind. :-)

We watched the talents of Lavinia Draper while we pathetically consumed mass amounts of alcohol. I was a little uncomfortable because Angel was intently flirting with me even though he has a partner of 9 years (who was conveniently was out in town). He also extended the same courtesy @ his Post Holiday Madness party last week. Yes, he apologized profusely for his actions saying they were harmless, however he continued to express his interest @ Therapy Bar by trying to hold my hand, subtly touch my leg and/or back, and he was trying to charm me with his cantor. Sorry....you get nothing and you're going to like it. :-) Call me old fashioned, but that's not really my style. He's a load of energy and and spastic like me, but if he's not able to respect the boundries then there's no room for a friendship. It's sad really, but it seems monogamy is a dying lifestyle.

You Oughta To Be In Pictures (April 8th, 2006)

Last night was the first rehearsal for the concert at Lincoln Center with New York City Gay Men's Chorus. I volunteered to be apart of the buddy system, which essentially means I am a guide for one of the new chorus members in my section (T2). My buddy's name is Nate and he's from Duluth, Minnesota. We rehearsed through some amazing arrangements of music. Directly after rehearsal we (most of the chorus) headed to The Monster (The regular Chorus hangout) only to enjoy a complimentary frozen margarita which I had been craving. Thank God for the power of time management (scheduling power at work) because I got home around 1AM and I was exhausted. Oy......I'm not as young as I used to be.....these aching bones need rest. :-) With that said, it's good to be back.

The Status "Quo"

Last night I was invited to Club Quo, which was right down the street from Crobar and the gentleman's club Scores. Talk about the middle of nowhere. My friend Xoell from Madrid (who now lives in NYC: now a promoter) invited me to the festivites. The club itself was not my thing, but I had fun.

A Brooklyn Day...

I spent Sunday with a guy by the name of David, a Forest Hills resident (first date). SMILE! He picked me up in front of my building, took the back way through queens and drove to Cobble Hill (Brooklyn) where we ate at The Atlantic Chip Shop. Wonderful food and great conversation.

He then brought me to the Brooklyn Heights Promenade, where we both admired the view of Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty.....What an amazing place to be on such a beautiful day.

We wandered aimlessly around Brooklyn Heights & felt the temptation (and inspiration) for a cup of java, accompanied by a dessert. This brought us directly to the Connecticut Muffin. Can you believe there was a Starbucks right across the street? Oy! Wait...yes, I can believe it. :-) We ended up strolling around the area for hours, talking and carrying on. Then around 4:00 pm he drove me home. What a refreshing day....David was the perfect gentleman and someone I would love to see again. :-)

Powder and Meat Pies

Tonight was Michael DeShield's Birthday (NYCGMC). I joined the celebration with a group of his friends in the East Village at a bar called Dempseys Pub. This was your typical popular East Village straight bar that was fun, festive and hot (temperature wise). Amongst the familiar faces I saw Tim B (& his spouse Pat), Kenneth (who had the wrong addy which left both of us on the upper East side (@ 61st Street..Oy), Chris Manna (Donnatella), Greg W. (Soloist: Not in our Town) and many others. I ended up hanging out with Greg most of the time we spent at Dempseys. We eventually made our way to a bar called Urge Lounge where all the other chorus boys had ventured. I had been there once before with my friend Andrew from London.

I was having a blast drinking Stella and chatting with everyone, of course, something crazy and bizarre was bound to happen. Let me just quote Mr Mackie from South Park "Drugs are BAD" to set the mood. As I was getting ready to leave this very energetic man was talking to Michael D. & I (I was grabbing my jacket) and then proceeded to take my hand placing cocaine on it. OMG!!! I was floored and didn't know how to react. I merely laughed, wiped the powder off my hand, hugged Michael goodbye and rushed out of the bar with Kenneth. It still surprises me how many people are so involved in the drug world. The only white power I care to see is flour or baking soda. :-) WOW...That really sobered me up. I walk away from tonight with a smile, knowing that drugs have never got the best of me.

Directly following, Kenneth & Frederick (whom I met at David Friedman's Christmas party through Kenneth) stopped at this cute little place called Tuck Shop for a quick bite. They were selling meat pies which immediately put me in the Sweeney Todd frame of mind. :-) WOW!!! The food (the meat pies) were AMAZING! You must try them.

The Post Holiday Madness Bash

Last night my friend Jose invited me to a party in Sunnyside Queens which was sooooo much fun. I met Jose on the Radiance of the Seas (Royal Caribbean) when visiting my friend Elvira 6 months ago. He was performing with the amazing group OLÉ OLÉ, dancing the night away as a Flamenco dancer. He was absolutely amazing! One of the other cast members from the Royal Caribbean shows (Troy Barnes) introduced us and we've been in touch ever since. :-) He's one of the nicest people you'll ever meet.

The party crowd consisted of mostly opera and creative types.....I fit right in. :-) I mostly hung out with Jamila, Anthony (Italian, Greek, Jewish looking), Angel (the host), Victoria (she made the coconut macaroons...I now have the recipe) and Jose, of course. We were dancing to 80's favorites, sang "We Three Kings" operatic style, experienced the Swedish candy "DAIM" and drank the entirty of the evening. My head is pounding as I write so it must have been a good night. :-)

I will be seeing Jose perform next week at the Andrea Del Conte Theatre on Mercer Street in SoHo if you're interested in seeing the beauty of Flamenco dancing. I'm honored to know such a talented individual. :-)

The Green Cactus Mexican Grill

For those of you who know me and know my affinity for this restaurant, I am sad to report that The Green Cactus Grill has lost their lease in Forest Hills and have permanently closed for business. Let us take a moment to remember the cactus burrito, the salsa bar and the many treasured smiles I've carried with me after stuffing my face. I'll miss them terribly. Tears flowing......

The Hideaway Room At Helen's

Last night I attended a cabaret show which featured Danna Davis (visiting from Ireland) and my friend Kenneth Gartman. The night was filled with beautiful melodies, witty dialogue, and an overall warm hearted feeling of contentment. This was the 3rd show I've seen at Helen's Hideaway Lounge (Christopher Caswell & Ryan Leeds from Uptown Express were the other 2) & sadly the room is not best equipped for sound. I enjoyed the intimacy, the charm, the food/staff, the layout of the room, and for course the talent, but it all comes down to how the singer resonates throughout the space. Regardless of petty details, it was a great evening of cabaret. I'm very excited that Kenneth will be joining me in the group Uptown Express so we can sing together.

Immediately following the show, most of Kenneth's guest from the chorus (Ron, Tim, Kip, Bob, John R, and Brian M) went next door to the bar gym for a cocktail. It was nice to hang out with the boys before rehearsals begin again.

Remembering New Years Eve

Picture this..... about 25-30 people in Central Park, each holding a bottle of champagne watching fireworks directly after the stroke of midnight. It was instense, cold and much fun! Prior to the park, my friend Chris from L.A. was invited to a party on the upper west side where we spent over 2 hours, eating, drinking and socializing. I felt right at home seeing that most of the people there were visiting from Los Angeles. AND having my best friend Dan right beside me was very special. It was a wonderful night that ended with a sweet New Years kiss from a guy named Michael (one of Chris' friends in L.A.)

Sushi With Anne

Tonight I was reunited with one of my first friends/roommates in NYC. Anne and I met in the summer of 92 at The American Musical and Dramatic Academy. We shared many laughs, bonded with the music and enjoyed each other's company. At the completion of our musical journey we decided to become roommates along with one of my L.A. friends (Yesenia) Oy, that was a total mess but somehow Anne & I smiled, persevered through the frustration and lived together with several other passing roommates (mostly actor types). Looking back on 300 West 49th Street (then and now) I believe starving theatrical artist (espeically in New York City) are tolerant of almost anything. :-) Picture a 1 bedroom apartment in Midtown Manhattan with 3 people (with a bunk bed in the closet of a bedroom). That was another time and place which I will fondly remember. All I can say is now I enjoy having my own space.

Tonight we wined and dined over sushi, soba and Green Tiramisu (Don't ask). :-) It was great seeing her after all this time. Anne is a beautiful person whom I've had the privilege of knowing for 13 years. I'm grateful to have her in my life and I look forward to reminiscing over the past memories we've shared. My heart goes out to her, as well as Limbo (her/our cat at one point) who played an important role in both of our lives.

Zippy's First Blog Entry...Happy New Years!!

HAPPY NEW YEAR! On the top of my list of New Year's resolutions my goal is to write in my new blog at least once a week if not more. My friend Tricia, an inspiration, religiously reports on all events that transpire in her life. I aspire to be as informative as her, but it will be challenging with all the endeavors I'm continuously involved in. With that said, I welcome you to my first submission a couple days after the New Year....a time for change. I look back on last years events and can't help but think I was more dissatisfied then pleased. Yes, singing at Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, The Skirball Center (at NYU), The Duplex (cabaret club), and at Avalon (former Limelight) with Uptown Express and NYCGMC has been completely fulfilling artisitcally, but with my personal goals (and romantic life) I felt a sense sadness & emptiness.

So with that said....my first New Year's resolution is to become a healthier and "try" to take advantage of my gym membership. For those of you who know me this will be difficult, but I'm determined to give it a chance. My other resolution is to love myself, remember to breathe and to allow myself to say no if I have to. I have a tendency to try & please everyone which isn't always a good thing, so I plan to be more organized, make plans accordingly and to make sure I have quality "me" time. :-) And if a romantic life is somewhere in that equation I will embrace it with open arms.

I'm off to meet my friend Chris from L.A. for a little Indian cuisine & then a night of drinks at B Bar (Beige). The weather is horrible (raining and cold), but that won't stop this New Yorker from pressing on. I'm obviously not speaking for the entire New York City community..hehe.

So in conclusion, I leave you with the beautiful words of Tricia Wang, "Live a Lovely Day!!!"