Meer's New York City Journal

Saint Patricks Day March 17, 2011

2011-03-18T06:21:00.000-07:00

As last year's tradition we met up at Julius Bar in Greenwich village. The plan was to meet at 7:30PM
I got there first & then Tyrus shows up. He orders me a Guinness and there famous burger & a large size French fries which we shared with Mark S. & Frank T. Who were the next folks to show up. Mark S. was wearing a kilt that his Grand mother made for him. And Frank wore his trademark sports coat. Mark drank my guinness and I ordered a bud mclight to keep it light. More friends were present. Starting with Manuela, Razmig, Brian Z, Jon C, Zelina, Ariel, Darrel, Christopher C, Gregory, Sevag & Guy. We took over the front part of the bar while we talked & shared laughter among a mix bunch of friends. It was wonderful to see everyone and enjoy Saint Patricks Day in this legendry bar.

Sunday

2010-03-28T19:35:00.000-07:00

I went to Church with T. This is not the first time, but, fist time for Palm Sunday. It's when Jesus came to Jerusalem before he was put on a cross. We held a Palm leaf while we sang along with the rest of the people from the Church. It was beautiful.
Afterward we head to Haveli Restaurant in the East Village for dinner. We shared the Murgha Tikka muslam & lamb cooked with onions & spices. The dish came with jasmine rice. The food was more then enough for us both. The chicken dish was delicious but the lamb was a bit chewy & it tasted like beef instead of lamb but it was not terrible so I did not wanted to return it. But next time I'd order a vegetable based dish. I hear the saag paneer is good based on reviews on yelp. This was Ty's first time at this restaurant. He liked the restaurant & was going to recommend to his friend Christine when she visits NYC from Ohio.
Earlier in the day we built shelves and put away the last two boxes left unopened from the time i moved in. It felt like some things were accomplished. Not a whole lot but it's a Sunday!

The day I was born

2009-12-07T07:39:00.000-08:00

On my birthday the boy with a photogenic smile & I took the train to the East Village for brunch. We went to Flea Market Cafe a French restaurant on Ave. A. They have a $10.95 brunch menu that can't go wrong. The menu comes with coffee & half glass orange juice along with the food. I had the "Omelette du Flea Market" with mushroom & tomato & T had the Oeufs Bénédicte. Our food was tasty. The restaurant has a very uplifting atmosphere with a waitress who greets you with a smile that deserves a gracious tip. You can enjoy French classical music while you eat and the place is decorated with items bought from, I am guessing, flea markets around New York City.
Afterward, we walked to Metropolis, a vintage clothing store and then to Whole Foods in Union Square, for the chocolate birthday cake and items for the birthday party that we were planning to have later in Brooklyn.
With luck my birthday fell on Saturday this year.
It was a mix of friends, old and new. This was T's first party in in our place in Brooklyn. As always, It was a great way to see all my friends. It was the first snow of 2009. Despite the bad weather people came. The party ended around 12:30 am but some friends stayed till 3:00 am for conversations and laughter.

Not too late to start the day

2009-11-30T14:23:00.001-08:00

The rain started a little later this monday morning. It's 45 degree fahrenheit outside at the moment and I don't feel like reminiscing the past weekend just because it's in the past and i am just thinking about today, at least for now. Was it a productive day? There were some phone calls I had to make and research some information other then that I took it easy. Yesterday it was nice outside so I put on a t-shirt & a sweater & my gary coat. MY hat & glove was in the coat pocket and the scarf was on my hand most of the time and not wrapped around my neck as usual. But, I feel as if it was not enough. Last night I sneezed three times. I knew this may mean I have a cold. Not severe, just the nose a little runny and i am reaching for the tissue paper every few hours. They say the best way to get rid of a cold is to sleep and rest. Although, I have been restless thinking about all the stuff need to be done before the party on Saturday. The day is not over yet. As I heard from a friend once... you can start your day at any time. Ready, set, GO...

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2009-11-18T12:28:00.000-08:00

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The Weekend

2009-11-16T09:35:00.000-08:00

Friday: This past weekend, it was more good moments then bad. Friday evening I met up with Tyrus & his coworkers at a birthday party of a colleague of his. I got to meet most of his co-workers at the Times. They all seem charming. After two draft of guineas & T, after two bottle of Red Stripe, T's co-worker Simone & I head to a look for something to eat. We find a mexican restaurant on 45th street & 8th Avenue. She ordered a chicken fajita, a taco salad for Tyrus & I had a chicken quesadilla. Afterward, T & I take the train home for some much needed R&R.

Saturday: we got up mid morning & worked on making the wardrobe moved the dresser to another room, went to grocery shopping for the week, and in the evening worked on the skyline painting project over a bottle of "hunters red" wine, till it was time to go to sleep.

Sunday: We did our laundry, applied for some jobs and then head to Manhattan with Tyrus and met up with John S. for a bottle of wine and snacks at his very nicely decorated place in mid town. He has finally finished working on his apartment and the place looks excellent. After some conversation at his garden patio, all of us head downtown. Tyrus had to attend church afterward, and John & I went down to Santos for 718 Sessions party. We were suppose to meet Manuela later inside the club but, she got there after I left, due to an incident happened on the dance floor. While I was dancing for about twenty minutes I fell down, with an impossible pain on my left knee. It felt as though my knee cap has been popped out of my joint. Somehow manage to press it back on top of my knee it seem to click back to the right place. I was in terrible pain as I reach my hand for John to pick me up. I almost thought I was going to faint. At least two or three time I felt I was going to pass out, while trying to climb up the stairs to exit the club. I manage to climb up the stairs backward and sitting down on the steps, little by little, very slowly, while club goers pass me by and looks at me like what is going on? Luckily John was with me the entire time. And while seated on the steps, I text Tyrus who was finishing up with his church. He calls me back right away. In a way it was perfect timing. If this happened later in the night I probably would had to take a cab on my own and this would have been much more difficult.

After getting home and climbing up the stairs to the second floor, same way as in the club. I lay down in bed with my knee up on the pillow and with ice packs to reduce the swelling. I decide to seat this one out and see how fast I can heal from this incident. I hope to be better soon, so I can walk and run in normal pace. I feel like this is getting better. T & I agree that it's better that I already moved to brooklyn and it good that this did not happen before the move. Lying in bed I can see my the painting of Frida Khalo, she is starring me down. In my mind she is saying "what have you done this time... ? I know you feel inspired by me but don't make your life exactly like mine..." The unfortunate event keeping me inside the house, and for the time being I have nothing else to do beside paint and write & rest.

Moving to Brooklyn

2009-10-27T10:24:00.000-07:00

I am moving to Brooklyn in next month. I am feeling mixed emotions about the move. In one hand it's great that i am starting a new life with a good friend and I'll be close to my old friends who still lives in Brooklyn, on another hand I'll have to leave my dear friend and the life i had, the comfort of when i was in living in Manhattan.

I need to pack up everything and then unpack and make space in the new place so I don't crowd the room. Although, I believe my addition of stuff will make the new place even better for both of it's residence. Lucky for me i don't have a lot of things. Only a red chair for a furniture. This will take a bit to get used to. And getting use to something takes time. I think everything is falling in to place. It is a good thing over all. I'll learn from this and I'll be a stronger person because of it. Not all the time people get a chance to learn from new experience, and my leaping toward the uncertainty of the beautiful road ahead will be a step forward toward love & freedom.

Today

2009-10-20T10:51:00.000-07:00

It's a better day. I am getting things done. Cooking some chicken and mixed frozen vegetable for lunch. And then back to what i was doing from my things to do before the day is over.

Life is Amazing!

2009-10-19T09:23:00.000-07:00

Ready to write again after a while. It's Monday.

I was expecting to work but did nor receive the call from my agent.

I am hoping he'll call me back or i have to do my own search. It's lunch time and I feel hungry. What to eat? Inside the refrigerator there are some left over pancake. Yum... should i eat it? Lately I have been watching how much food i consume, this is a good thing. There are some strawberries, banana and oatmeal outside the refrigerator. And that is what I'll have for lunch. Case closed! This morning when I got home, I find some boxes left on the "study room" with my stuff that was on top of the top storage. This is a good thing. I don't need to climb up to get them, it's already down. Ready to be put in a u-haul and shipped to my next place of residence. I am looking forward to the next adventure of my life. You lose some and you gain some. So far it has been amazing!

Pasando La noche con amiga

2009-05-14T18:26:00.000-07:00

I named this blog the night of hanging out with my friend. Although it was more like catching up. I caught up with MS after at least a month of maybe a little more. But everything was just as it was before... More tome has past more adventure or events happened but we haven't changed, we are just as we ware till last time we hung out. We talked about our recent experience. She stops by at my place just as planned. We open a bottle of Italian Vino that ML & I was saving up for a special occasion. Then and this was perfect timing because since we have been saving special occasion wines for a while there are plenty of bottles to finish. But one bottle was perfect for two people before heading to dinner at our neighborhood Mexican restaurant. We had a wonderful time talking and sharing laughs and joked about "certain need". We talked about taking photographs and traveling and hopefully we can figure out something that works for both of us. After dinner we get back to the house and ML was right behind us as we are about to get in. MS stays a little longer and speaks to ML and catches up with him a little then she gets on her fast bike and zaps home just as the wind.

Ft. Lauderdale, Florida

2009-05-13T07:33:00.001-07:00

On April 24th through 26th myself & ML was in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. We ware there for a LGBT writes conference and panel discussion about what is like to be a writer and how does TV shows and web episodes works and what people need to do to get themselves establish as a writer. The best advise i got from KH is keep writing and have something to show to the world or to someone if they want to see your writing. A couple of ML's friends ware speaking at the conference.
KH is one of them & CW is the other friend that I know. They both ware flying in from LA to speak in the conference. ML's old times friend K.C. was one of the organizer for the event. Besides this he paints abstract close up of people in oil paint. He is quite good. The event took place the LGBT center downtown. The space had a gallery & a library. We all stayed at the same hotel not to far from the conference space. Called The Embassy Suites Hotel. It was very Florida like. Over the top glam. The rooms ware all around the corridor with an open area in the middle. The center area was an outdoor/indoor breakfast area with some plants, and up high on top, there was glass ceiling covering the roof of the center area. The Hotel was at least 12 story tall. We ware on the 11th floor. KH on the 8th & another friend (JC) we met through KC on Friday night at dinner, after we first arrived. JC was staying at the 7th floor. JC was an interesting fella. He worked for the "times magazine" and has been writing for the publication for at least 12 years. He was an interesting to talk to and while we ware hanging out at the pool on Saturday, with pool side cocktails, we got to share with each other the dance music we like. We both had our iPod with us and we ware playing music and listening to songs we think is good. I learned he likes music that are more fast base and me being the house music lover compared to his music my dance music ware a little slower. I guess the technical term would be own tempo. We got along well. We decided to stay in touch and will probably meet up for dinner sometimes. I invited him & his friend, that he is seeing recently, to the roller coasters weekend on the May 30th. He is not sure as of yet but will let me know. After the conference and a dinner back at the hotel our writers conference was done. Later that evening I was very tired and fell asleep on the couch and Mark & Keith hangout watching TV and had pizza ordered to the hotel. The next morning I meet up with my friend JR & her husband James who I knew back when I was in college. They come over and we all go to this dinner at this area called Las Olas. It's a bohemian area in Ft.Lauderdale and had a lovely brunch. Afterward we all head to the beach and hang out for a while before it's time to get back. at this point I was missing Florida. It's always nice to get away for a short time. This way you don't get bored of the city you are visiting. Right before you start to miss New York and the weather is much better then not that long ago.

Le Biergarten

2009-05-12T12:37:00.000-07:00

Little by little the the garden is being built. ML & I planting something almost every weekend. Most Saturdays when we are in the city, we take the downtown train to the farmers market in Union Square 14th Street. We buy some plants mostly flowers, and bring back home. We stay out in the garden till dawn or sometimes event past that since we have lights. The lights are from target store in Los Angeles. ML bought them the last time he was in LA visiting his buddy KH. This year we got to enjoy the garden more so then last. Last year we moved to the new place in September and was too late to plant anything. Since we started to plant stuff early spring, we got to enjoy the result. We need to plant more plants. And plant some seeds as well. I am thinking, Sunflowers and Snapdragons. I am very eager to get some bamboo plants for the back part of the garden. ML & I need to go to a store in queens for that. Recently we put in some fishes in the little garden pool. We added some gold fishes, in case mosquito's lay eggs on the water the fishes will eat them up and we won't have to worry about breeding mosquito's. In the pond I put in some submerged plants to keep the fishes company. Plus a battery operated air pump which we turn on during the day and shut it off at night. Sometimes in the future ML wants to collect a box turtle from out in the wilderness and have it as a pet. At the pet store they ware over priced.
I also planted some plants toward the front of the building. It's a nice welcome when you arrive home and the little ivy's & flowers welcomes you with a smile. I am more attached to the plants that i grow from seedlings. Some weekends we are away, and when we come back, we noticed the difference. They look much taller then 2 or 3 days later and I am happy to see them a little bigger. I feel like they are my little childrens. I need to water them often and nurture them and watch them grow little by little just as little baby's, only my little baby plants grows faster.

New York, NY

2009-01-15T08:01:00.000-08:00

It's a cold day in New York today. The temperature is in the teens. 18 degree at the moment. I am at work whee it's warm. And we have windows all around our office. We can see the snow coming down. I thought it would slow down. But it's keep snowing. Tonight it suppose to be 5 degree. I think it's the coldest night this winter.

I had an idea in the shower this morning.
Writing a script for a short movie and put it up on YouTube when it's done. Now for what to write? Humm i have to think about it a bit and i don't want to give it away on my online journal. But i am thinking of just using my digital camera for the footage and combine all together using iMovie software.

Snowboarding

2009-01-14T08:39:00.000-08:00

My first time snowboarding. We went to Jiminy Peak mountain resort in Hancock Massachusetts. It was myself Ricardo & his two snowboarding friends, Sonia & Siboney.
They were very nice and cheerful. Both work as fashion designers. Sonia works for American Appeal & Siboney works for Sears Clothing industry. We rent a zip car SUV. And Ricardo & the girls pick me up from my place at 7:30am and we head off to our adventure. On the way we stop at a bakery cafe for breakfast and then head to our destination. We get there at 12:15 and i rush to my training which starts at 1pm. It was a hour an half training which finishes at 3pm and we regroup at the cafeteria. We meet up with more of Ricardo's friends two from the city and one from Albany. Sung & not sure the other friend and Heidi from Albany. After we have some lunch we brought in Ricardo & I decide to practice in the lower mountain. It was nice of him to help me practice and keep me company. But the lower mountain was still too tough for me since i needed to master my turning at the practice hill "the chipmunk". On my lesson the instructor was teaching us to practice how to turn. And i think it was best for me to practice how to turn first before taking on the bigger hill. I am planning to go again and take lesson and really learn how to turn so i won't fall as much as i did the first time. Non the less it was a great experience!

Prop 8 Protest 11/15

2008-11-19T12:13:00.000-08:00

Last Saturday I went to a protest rally for Proposition 8. It took place in City Hall in Manhattan. This is the California ruling against Gay couple to be able to Marry and be recognize as legal within the state. This is still lame. Gay couple should be able to marry in all stats of united states of America. It was okay for gay couples to Marry in California in May 2008 by the ruling of Supreme court. And in November the the religious groups of the state rappelled the law and through voting of he religious groups the Marriage between gay couples ware ban once again. This caused outrage in the gay community and all over the country there is protest. The ruling happened right after Obama won the election to be the first Black president of the United States and how it made United states looked like a forward thinking country. But a day later it was proven wrong by taking a step backward toward equal rights to gay people. This makes me sad and angry knowing how some people can be so ignorant and hateful toward another human being. I don't understand how marriage of a gay couple affects a heterosexual couples marriage. This proposition is more like proposition hate. Why can't those people focus on Love then focus on hate. This is the question lingers in my mind...

Family Issue

2008-11-19T11:59:00.000-08:00

I discovered a while ago that my middle brother has brain tumor. The doctors says it's behind his eye. I am no sure if it's the left or the right eye. I am a little worried But I am guessing he will be fine. I know some people and even one friend who had the surgery and they are doing well after the operation. I am not that worried. I was reading a lot about it. This helps to learn more about the cause and the treatment. I learned the surgery would be microscopic. They usually stick a needle like pipe to remove the tumor and uses x-ray to visualize what they are doing.
My brothers wife is very worried. She is from Bangladesh and does not speak any English. They have a one and half year old babe boy. My brother is the only bread bringer of the family so i think that makes her worry more. But I think her being worried makes the situation more difficult then it is. I hope that she calms down and not worry and cause more stress this will better for my brother and everyone else.

The Dream

2008-10-28T07:23:00.000-07:00

I had a dream last night. I was taking my motor cycle lisence test. I was with manuela and her instructor friend and we ware all riding to an unknown place. I was riding over the hills and cliffs. We ware ridign smooth without any problems. I felt the wind on my face on my body as the motorcycle drove through the winding road.

A night of dancing

2008-09-24T15:44:00.000-07:00

Manuela has sent out a invite to a dance party at the Hudson Hotel at 58th St & 7th ave. It was an RSVP only party. And the DJ was our one and only Danny Krivit from 718 sessions. It turns out Danny Krivit also spins there once in a while and the space it self have parties such as this one with other guest DJ's. It was a Monday evening party but early. from 7PM till 11PM. After a long day of work i come home and change into something more comfortable. Ramona was showing interests in going. I told her before that the party was going to be downtown near the meatpacking district. And her phone was out of service after that. So i was thinking if she goes downtown she will be disappointed. Me feeling guilty. I go downtown at the meatpacking district in west 13th St & 9th Ave. At the APT. and after waiting for her for half hour I call Talib to see if he could get a hold of Ramona. Talib lives in the same building at the apartment next to her. He says he left a note for her and she got the note. since her phone was not working she could not call me to tell me that she decided not to go. Over all no harm done. I leave downtown not feeling guilty and head uptown toward the main event of the night. It was a beautiful early fall evening. I was wearing my shorts, polo short sleeve shirt and my dancing shoes. And I get to my destination early by 7:45pm and when I get there I call Manuela to see if she is on her way. It turns out she was just about getting ready to leave. I get in there and run into to some of the regular people who goes dancing there. Like Maria and her husband Dominiq. She was dancing all over the place as usual. They ask if Mark was coming and I say no I am just waiting for my friend Manuela. I was a little shy at first. It was a very lit place. Specially it's being the glass dance floor all lit up. And in the beginning not many people ware dancing. But soon I decide go with my dancing principle which is "dance as if no one is watching you" this rule works like a charm and i let loose and dance to the music as i feel like if and with music by Danny Krivit it does not get any better. Shortly after Manuela shows up with her brother Marco he was visiting from Italy. He was just as sweet as Manuela. How lucky for her to have nice brother like Marco. we all hang out and dance a little. Marco really enjoys the live NYC crowd and Manuela and I dance and talk a bit and catch up on what's going on in our life. As the night moves along we run into Manuela's friend Kat we all go out for a smoke and talk about Sky Diving and visiting Kat at her apartment for a small party someday. I tell her about our upcoming house warming party on Halloween and we exchange numbers. As we all go back up to the party and dance some more kat disappears and we find Marco sitting and resting as well grab our last drink and dance some more. I get a text from Mark L. asking if we all want to meet for a bite to eat at the Burger Joint at Le Parker Meridian Hotel on 57th St between 6th & 7th Ave. We agree to go and soon after the three of us walk to meet Mark L in front of the hotel and we go inside just in time for last call. It was one of those hidden find places that mostly known by New Yorkers. The cheese burger and fries were excellent and tasted even better after an evening of dancing. Mark gets familiar with Marco and on the way back Mark gives Marco a short tour of the mid town architecture. As we walk toward the Apple store on Columbus Circle we agree it's time to call a night since tomorrow it's a working day. It was a night to remember.

Provincetown Getaway

2008-09-01T12:18:00.000-07:00

On the way back from Provincetown, MA. On the high speed Ferry. It is an end of a four day vacation. The weather was lovely. Mark & I got here in the afternoon on Friday and leaving Monday 3pm. This was the labor day weekend. No work on Monday! Bill was there with Gus and Fernando a week before we got there and left on Sunday. I am guessing they had a nice time. Coincidentally, they ware staying very near where we ware staying. Sunset Inn. We ware staying upstairs at a little room next to the Sun deck. It was a cosy little space, the space had a country home feel to it. The room had a TV with video play capability and a little refrigerator a dresser and a queen size bed. There wear two windows facing the beach and one facing the deck. We had to climb through the wooden stairs to get to the room. It was a new experience for me. Friday after reaching PTown on the high speed ferry from Boston, we took a little nap before checking out the T-Dance at the boat slip. We got in for free someone was leaving and gave us their last tickets since they ware leaving town. We had one planters punch. It was refreshing and got us a nice little buzz. Soon we leave the spot and meet up with Bill and the gang. We get to their little rented space. They ware lucky to have a little terrace and an extra sleeping area at the attic. The space had a kitchen and it was on the 2nd floor. They ware staying in 18 Standish street. We ware staying in 142 Bradford st. we ware near each other. We get to their place and have a couple of cocktails and head out to grab a bite to eat at a restaurant and then to the A-House (local dance club) for a night of dancing and hanging out with friends at the patio and to the bar next door. Then to Spritus pizza as the ritual goes in Ptown. It was just as I remembered in 2005 that was the last time I was there with Bill, Ivan & Ralph. It was quite fun as I remembered. The next day we wake up and have breakfast at cafe heaven at commercial street. There are many cute little stores in commercial at and little colorful houses. The town was a fishing village and an artist community before it became a little gay village. It was nice to see a place where gays, lesbians, transgender people and heterosexuals all leaving in Harmony. At least that's how I pictured the town in the four days we ware there. Mark and I have a nice bike ride on the picturesque swirly bike trail the edge of the beach and ends up in herring cove. It was such a nice bike trail and we stopped often to take photos of wild mushrooms that grew along the path and the little ponds, Marsh land and sand dunes along the way. Saturday it was cloudy and it rained a little we head to the beach but not stay long due to the cold wind. We go home and freshen up. The evening ends with a dinner that made us sleepy and we end up going to bed right after. Sunday was sunny and pleasant weather in the mid 70's and Mark and I meet up with Bill for breakfast at Cafe Heaven once again. We say hello to the boys who got up late and say good bye to them because they ware leaving for New York. Bill drives back and takes them along with them. Mark and was staying till Monday so we make the best of Sunday biking and doing a little shopping and had a lovely dinner at an authentic Mexican restaurant called "Loraine's" at the edge of the town. We walk around Commercial St. and go home to take a nap so we can go out later. But the nap turns to sleep. And we decide to sleep and wake up the next day all fresh. Monday, the last day of our little getaway. Every time i am in Provincetown i have such a nice time i always miss the place when it's time to go home. Provincetown will always have a special place in my brain. IN the morning we don't look much and head to cafe Heaven once again for breakfast and then we bike to the edge of the beach and rest and listen to the sound of the ocean and listen to the seagulls sing. After an hour we had to return our Bikes and walk back to Sunset Inn to get our bags and we head to the Lobster Place where we went the first night. We get some lobster rolls and a lobster to share and an order of freshly opened Oyster. Yum! After that it was time to go and we wait in line to get on the ferry that takes us back to Boston. While in the ferry I started to write this travel journal, which will be good to look back someday...

Last weekend

2008-08-25T13:51:00.001-07:00

Last weekend was Jamel's birthday, finding a new apartment and visiting mom in New Jersey and seeing a movie with Mark. Yes I did all those things and still felt this was a short weekend. Let's start with Jamel's Bday. We meet up at Samalitas for dinner at 8pm on Friday. Jamel Joins Mark & I with his two friends Jean & Nicole. These sistas ware funny from the get go. I give Jamel a Bday card. Mark bought jamel a chocolate cake. It was delicious. He loved it.

We finish our dinner and head to the apartment for some Pina Coada and we head to the rooftop for the main party. Sometimes later Omar, Jon C, Talib & Monique shows us and little later Jason with his friend Gary. Over all we have a great time dancing chatting and just by being silly. Later on people start to leave and I decide to head to desilicious for there white party. It was set in BB Kings at times square 42nd Street. It was fun hanging out with Omar. At the end we end up in McDonald's and have cigarette in the middle of times square. It was close to 4am and Omar & I split up on two taxi heading toward two different directions. Over all a fun night. The next day after much needed sleep. Mark & I take a look at out new place. it's a 1 bed room with a walk in closet that we are intending to turn into a study and with a private outdoor garden. We ware excited about the place. And the rent was within our budget.
The place is a block away from where we are staying now. So it is pretty close. We are excited about decorating the place and specially making the garden a really chill place to hangout. Later in the day I head to New Jersey to visit mom. I meet up with my brother first. He was hanging out with his wife near the train station. We met up in Popeye's. He treats me with some fried chicken. Yum! I meet up with him so he can give me the keys to the house. I was going to take the bus. But after hanging out with them for a while he decides to drop me home. As i get home. I was tired and i took a nap. Later mom comes home and we have dinner. I slept over and the next day I help mom with reading and explaining the pamphlets from her new job. I am happy that she have a job now. This will keep her busy and not be bored at home. Later in the afternoon I take the bus to the New Jersey Transit train and get back to the city. Back home i try to rest a bit and then to a movie with Mark. We go to the theater near our place. "Tropic Thunder" starring Ben Stiller, Jack Black, Robert Downey Jr., Tom Cruz & Matthew McConaughey. It was a funny movie to finish the weekend. Oh and yes after the movie we had sushi at out favorite Japanese restaurant. I slept like a baby that night. ;-)

Something

2008-08-14T08:56:00.000-07:00

Nothing much is going on today. I am at work and it's a slow day. But it's because i have been working hard and getting cought up with my work early.

Saturday

2008-08-11T13:24:00.000-07:00

It was a busy day. Got up had some breakfast made by Mark and then to the gym. After that met up with JS for brunch. Then head to Washington heights to photograph Manchildblack the singer/party promoter. It was great photographing him in the late afternoon. I got there at 3:30pm in the afternoon. I was glad i went there earlier in the afternoon then later. I was done by 5pm. I likes the way some of the photos turned out. I think having the new camera and lens really makes my photo quality that much better. Afterward back home and after dropping of my camera bag Mark & I took a cab to PS1 cross town to long island city. Which is not too far from the mid town tunnel in Manhattan. PS1 was fun it had a nice outdoor settings. The young architect program brought in yet another designers experimental piece. I think this time it was made to make aware of the environment. The structures ware made with cylinders and had plants on top. It was good but not better then what was there last year or the year before. The music was not so good toward the beginning but it got better just as we ware leaving. We met up with Bill,Gus, Tim & Tony Tim's gay nephew & Bill's friend Tyler. Ivan & Greg was there as well. When we are leaving Mark, me, Ivan & Greg we go get some Mexican food at a restaurant not too far from PS1. The place had a backyard and it was nice having our food outside. Although, the food took a while to show up. Afterward all of us head back to the city and to a Karaoke birthday Party for Bil's friend Oats. He invited me when he saw me at the gym a while back. It was some what fun. Ivan & Greg leaves and a little later Bill shows up with Tim, Gus & Dawn. We hang out for a bit and sing a long to some tunes before we head to 28th & 8th Ave to Bill & Tim's friend Sara N's place for her terrace party. She lived in a fancy apartment right across from FIT. She has two terrace one in the back and one in the front. And two bedrooms plus three bathrooms and a huge kitchen and living room space. She is a lawyer and she seems to be doing rather well. There ware some very lovely people in the little gathering. Some of her friends and us. We ware hanging out quit late and soon after Mark & I take garb a cab and head home tired and exhausted but happy to have such a eventful day.

Weekend in Ohio

2008-07-25T12:19:00.000-07:00

A few weekends ago I was in Columbus, Ohio. Mark had a work meeting there for Friday. And I tagged along. I took off from work on Friday and we left on Thursday day evening. We took a flight from Newark airport. And lander in Columbus, Ohio.
We got there pretty late due to the plane traffic. Got there and had to drive an hour from the airport. Was tired hen we got there. After a little meal went to bed. It was 2:30am. Mark had to get up early 6:00am to attend his breakfast meeting. I slept on till 8:30am and got up got ready and went to have some breakfast at the hotel restaurant downstairs. When Mark got back he had to take a nap. when he got up it was 1pm. and we got our self together and head toward Kevin & Greg's place. Kevin was Marks college buddy. When we got to Kevin's place he was there and his dog Ari. Greg was at work. Kevin took the day off for us. It was Friday. Kevin takes us to Chipolte for lunch and then to some thrifts stores and we shopped for some vintage clothes for very good price. I got a cargo shorts for $5 and a gym shorts for a dollar. Best is that i am making good use of the items. We went to some other vintage items stores and i got a vintage spiderman and a 7up bottle. I have the 7up bottle in my work place at the moment with a Chinese bamboo plant on it. It looks nice next to my work desk. When Greg came back we ware hanging out a little and he cooked us a nice meal. We ate at the backyard. It was lovely to eat outside at night.
The next morning after a nice breakfast Mark & I head out to Kings Island an amusement park nearby. We rode many roller coasters and was tired of riding them after a while because it was a very hot day. And the lines ware huge. They did not have any flash card. Oh well. It was fun none the less. By the time we ware done and rode back to Kevin's it was 10pm and we went out to get some food at a Mexican place near by. We ware super exhausted and went to bed. Sunday we had to get up early and after a quick breakfast we took off to the airport and flew back home. It was a smooth ride back compare to getting there. We got back by 12pm and later that evening we went to 718 Sessions at webster hall where we met up with Ramona & John. It was a fun weekend!

hot pink petunias

2008-07-15T11:54:00.001-07:00

Saturday Mark & I planted some new flowers in the front little garden area. We went to to the farmers market in Union Square and bougth some hot pink Petunias & Orange Meregolds, from a sweet little old lady. She gave us good deal on the price. They were les expansive then what we bought before. The little garden is smiling in the sun.

My first SLR Camera

2008-07-11T13:40:00.001-07:00

Couple of days ago I bought a new camera. My first digital single lens reflective aka "DSLR" Camera made by Cannon. It's a D40. I also purchase a "85mm f/1.8 telephoto" lens referred by my coworker Nate. Although, the lens is good for photographing people and it gives a nice blur effect in the background of the subject it does not have any wide angle. So, Saturday comes and I go back to J&R and exchange that lens with a EF 28-105mm f/ 3.5-4.5 USM lens. This lens is good for a wide range or photography from profile of people, flowers or buildings and nature and it has some zoom as well so this will cover a lot of ground while i get to know my camera more take photos with it and get a feel for what i can do with it. When I went back to J&R I brought a list with me with different lens to figure out which one i like the most. I fell in love with the 70-200 mm Zoom lens and wanted to purchase that one as well but i decided to back away from getting that at the moment. I decided to play with the current lens and get use to the camera first before i should purchase something else. I have not gone out with it as of yet to take photos around the city but i have been shooting a bit with it. I can't wait to get the zoom lens.

El Dia

2008-07-09T13:40:00.000-07:00

At work! It's busy. Not my favorite day but oh well... That's Life. Best part of the work day... Met up with Mark for lunch. Went to Pret. Had a chicken cob salad and lobster bisk soup. The soup was so so.. I like their chicken cob Salad. It has blue cheese, dried cherry, sliced pears and thinly sliced grilled chicken. You can pick whatever dressing you choose. I usually pick the Toasted Sesame dressing. But today I forget to grab it. At lunch time pret usually too busy and they rearly have space to sit down. We head to our usual spot for lunch. By the church cemetery at the center under the saints and Jesus sculpture where there is a seating spot. Have our lunch in peace, and then back to work.

4th July Weekend in Chicago

2008-07-08T10:40:00.000-07:00

Last weekend I was in Chicago once again. It was the weekend of 4th July. Mark & I went to visit his family. It was his family reunion and I got to meet the rest of the charming group. I met his brother E & C. E's wife, and their two daughters two or three times before. And I met Mark's sister K & K's husband Chuck plus their two son's K & D. Their daughter "A" I have not met until now. They all are a very nice.
I met up with rest of Mark's family. Mark's two other sisters Gale & Sue and their husbands and their kids. Mark's dad's sister and her husband. and Mark's Cousins Anne and Carl and their husband and wife and children's. There was a lot of family members and they all are very sweet. We had a two day family Olympic and we come up with two teams and played some summer games. It was lot's of fun. It was the evening of July 4th. After the games and a delicious meal there was fireworks on the backyard. It was quite fun to watch the fireworks, sitting down in the back porch. The next day, July 5th in the morning Mark & I planed to go to Six Flags Great America with Mark's sister Gale her son Tim, Mark's nephew David & niece Amy. We had a fun time riding roller coasters and got to know David, Tim, Gale & Amy better. Although, Gale was not a big fan of roller coasters and she did not ride any, but Tim, Gales son on the other hand was a big fan of roller coasters. He rode all the rides with much enthusiasm. David and Amy was all up for riding the roller coasters as well. They were both into riding them as much as we were. "Raging Bull" was the best ride and we rode that when we first got to the park and at the end before we left.Anyway, afterward we had to go home and change and get to E & C's place for the rest of the family Olympic and get together. After the games we had a little meal and went to the comfortable basement for a slide show of Mark and his brother's and sisters photos from back in the days. There was some great photos of Mark and his family growing up. From the photos it looks like they all had a nice time growing up. The next day we got ready and Mark dropped me at the Airport. He had to stay one more day to attend a funeral service of a client of his and work in the morning in the Chicago office. I had to get back on time since i had work the next day. Back in New York ad back to reality. It's slow at work at the moment, i guess the economy is slow and that makes the workload slow or maybe cause it's summer time. Not sure whatever the case, it's all good at the moment and I hope things will pick up soon.

718 Sessions Boat Party

2008-07-07T07:15:00.000-07:00

On the weekend of NYC gay pride 718 Sessions had an awesome house dance party on a boat. The 718 Sessions parties consists of a very mix crowd. The other alternative for a gay pride dance was on the Pier dance. I went to one of them years ago (luckily i did not had to pay that year) and had a fun time but i would not go back to those party any more due to enormous numbers of muscle heads with their shirts off jumping up and down the crowd.

The 718 Sessions house party on the other hand is what our crew lives for. Mark S. was visiting from the R.O.C. (Rochester) and Our friends Michelle & her GF Emily from San Francisco. It was me, Mark L., Mona, John S., Jamel, Frank and Mark S, Michelle & Emily. At the boat we ran into Imara, Leslie & Daniel (Odvar's friend) at the boat. It was a happy crowd. People were dancing to house and there were performers dressed up in costumes. Danny Krivit was spinning really great tracks and kept the crowd jumping from the get go. There was a DJ booth set up next to the dance floor and we were all dancing just next to Danny Krivit. We can see him right in front of us. His girl friend was next to him, she looked cute. It could not be more live then this. While on the boat we were dancing on the top part of the boat (the roof) and taking a break sometimes at the back of the boat and also dancing on the middle part of the boat to avoid the big crowd. The boat party starts (leaves the dock) at 8pm and returned at 11pm. When we got back on land some split up. But Mark S, Me, Ramona, Jamel & Mark L made our usual trip to a dinner to make a proper end to the evening the burger and the french fries tested specially good after a night of dancing fiercely.

Did you just walk out with my iPod?

2008-07-03T09:43:00.000-07:00

Thursday after work Bill & I meet up at the Crunch gym so we can work out together. Bill wanted to meet up at 7pm. I get there at 6:30pm and start my stretching exercise and run on the treadmill. By the time i got on the treadmill Bill shows up. We chit-chat about this and that. And we go downstairs and work on our bicep and deltoids muscle. We run into one of Bill's ex, his name is Oats. It turns out one of Oats good friend Yoshi knows Odvar. It's a small gay world after all. Anyway, after some conversation Bill & I work on our hamstrings for a little and decide it's time to call it quits. We go upstairs to change. While i am changing I notice. A big mussel dude changing in front of me. Bill stops by saying he is not changing he is going like this on his gym shorts and t-shirt. I was on back on my work clothes and hot. So i decide to change back to my gym shorts and sleeve less semi t-shirt. And meet Bill up stairs before heading down the stairs and out the door to get a bite to eat at Paquito's (a Mexican restaurant at the east village with outdoor seating space) We are on the stairs and I notice the big mussel guys comes up the stairs from downstairs and says "Did you just walk out with my ipod?" I'm like what nerve this guy have accusing me like that. And he has the nerve to ask me to open my bag and show him my ipod to make sure i am not lying. I was shocked at the situation and to avoid more drama I open my bag pocket and show him that it's my iPod nano not his. He even had the nerve to make it turn around to see if his name was etched on it. He tells me he is not accusing me. I tell him "You are accusing me" but whatever. Funny thing is, a couple of months ago I found an ipod on the locker room while i was working out with Mark S. and we both decide that it would be good karma to give it to the lost and found. I felt violated from this guys reaction toward me. Just because he lost his iPod does not mean he has the right to accuse just anyone he thinks looks suspicious. This guy needs to get a life. If this is the attitude he has toward his fellow human beings he won't go far in life. After the little incident Bill & I have a nice meal at Paquitos at their outdoor eating space and by the end of our meal this incident becomes history just as the meal.

Rooftop shindig

2008-07-01T13:58:00.000-07:00

Saturday was Gay Pride in NYC. I am tired of going to the lgbt parade after being there years after year. This year I decided not to attend and i think i picked the right year because it rained in the afternoon while the parade was in motion. I needed my sleep from staying up very late on Friday night. When I got up, i ordered some breakfast from Barking Dog. An Egg white with cheese & tomato on a toasted whole wheat bread. A small coffee and I was craving home fries but they forgot to include them when my order came. Oh well... Mark went to had brunch with his friend Mark Solan. Mark Solan came back to the apartment after and said hello which was very nice of him. He says we should plan a trip to the Coney Island next week after work sometimes to ride the Cyclone and have beers at the boardwalk. Later when Mark got back we both cleaned up our place and got ready for the rooftop party. We threw a rooftop house party in the evening, for Our friends who were visiting from Rochester, NY & San Francisco, CA. Later in the evening everyone came. Our friend JH & FS where the first to show up and helped us set up. Next came MS and we were ready to put up the lights on the roof top. We hooked up the speakers next and brought the beers up stair. The place was set for a party. Rest of the guests came little by little. It was fun to see all my good friends at one place. And catch up with them chatting and dancing. I realized you can never have a large amount of time with one person in a party like this. But i love when all of us there and getting along with everyone. The evening ends around 1:30 or 2 am and we were preety satisfied with the turn out. I love summer in NYC.

Dawn Till Dusk

2008-07-01T07:25:00.000-07:00

The day starts as any other. Woke up. Went to work. After work, gym. Then met up with M.S. in Union Square. He was visiting New York from Rochester. He wanted to check out the pier. So we take the M14 bus and get off at 9th Ave. I was a little hungry so we go for a quick bite and pint a the Automatic Slims restaurant in the meat packing district. It's a cute bar restaurant with a small menu and good sandwiches. The fries were not bad either. After a little chat and catching up we head out to the pier. It was a nice evening. We make a quick round around the board walk, watch some pier kids kiki... pass by the dug out bar and get a glimpse of the bears (big belly GM) having their beers. We walk down Christopher street and walk to 8th Ave & 14th Street to catch the L train to Brooklyn. On the walk to the train we run into O's friend Carlos and Tawfiq & Richard Austin a blast frm the past. We to head to J.C. & RMC's place. We meet up with T.N., O.L., Ariel & the rest of the crew. After a fun hang out. M.S, RMC, O.L. & me head to Sugerland in williamsburg. After some dancing and chilling M.S. gets a call from his friend Dan W. he invites us to a house party in Bushwick where we spend the rest of the night till the next morning. I could not leave due to these wild girls and boys staying up and partying all night long. Also I was not sure where i was and there was no cab around. So I had to stay out with these party hungry gurrls. LOL. Afterward, we crash at R.M.C's place and woke up around 11:30 am and I take the train back to Manhattan and they head to Reese beach in Brooklyn with Dan W. It was a wild evening filled with entertainment and good way to catch with M.S. & RMC.

weekend in Hershey, PA

2008-06-27T08:46:00.000-07:00

Last weekend Mark & I went to Hershey, Pennsylvania. The reason is to meet up with my family and attend the Jalsa (A Jalsa is a gathering of Muslims to listen to good words from the Imam and other fellow scholars. The end result is to give your fellow Muslims or non Muslims a chance to learn about the religion) On Friday after work, Mark and I drove there, took us 3 hours. After getting there we were faced with road traffic. after reaching PA, we stopped at Alan town, PA and made a short stop at Dorney Park and rode on some roller coasters for an hour before the park closed at 11. It was very spontaneous of us. We got discount fair because of getting there at the last hour. We managed to get on 6 rides and running from one to the next. It was lot's of fun. Me and Mark being roller coaster junky. We got a bite to eat some place after and then head to our hotel and slept. Next morning we had a nice breakfast downstairs at the Hilton hotel restaurant.
And Mark drove me off to where my family were staying at the Holiday Inn. This was the second day of the Jalsa I missed Friday due to work, and everyone was getting ready to attend the event. There was a lot of family members. My mom, my two brothers and their family and sisters with their family was present. My uncles, aunts and cousins. My nephews and niece.
It was great to see them all at once. Eventually we get to the Jalsa listen to lectures and get my soul rejuvenate with the great words of the all mighty. And think this is not so bad. It was peaceful to sit and listen. I only wished they were more acceptable toward gay and lesbian Muslims. I feel there is so much hypocrisy with any religion let alone Islam. Saying god forbids you from being who you are. When you are a children of god just as your brother and sisters. In any case this makes me bitter and angry and i don't like feeling this way. I like to take the good from it and not worry about the bad parts. The next day after the Jalsa my uncle invites us the Siam Garden a Thai restaurant for a family lunch. This has become a family tradition in New York. We use to see each other more when we were little that was in Bangladesh and I was little and did not had to deal with and negative emotions. I was young and loved by all. This was the good old days. N-E-Ways, After the lunch everyone gathers for photos right outside the restaurant. They were standing and taking photos with the group with every ones camera. Everyone wanted to have photos with everyone. This was never ending. My cousin tells me that they are acting like they will never see each other again. Well... it's not true but we don't see each other that often. Mostly i'm to blame. I don't always like to visit my uncle and aunts because they are always asking when am i going to get married. And i don't have the nerve to tell them i am gay and i am living with my boy friend. They thinks i am living with my "room mate". I am sure they have some type of clue this is not the case and at the moment i don't think i care that much if they knows. I love my girl cousins. They are sweet and i felt like i would not mind coming out to them when i see them next. Mark was across the street inside the car. And we text each other for a bit and i sneak out from the group photo sessions. I sneak out just as i ran away from home back in 1999 and i never went back living at home. At this moment Mark to the rescue. And we take off for more roller coasters riding evening at the Hershey Park near by. We get to go on Eight roller coasters all together this time. We have a fun rest of the evening and i forget any bad feelings i felt that evening by being next to one of my uncle who is not that nice toward me and i block out the incident of when he yeals at me and tell me how i a not a good person and what not. I block out this from my head and fill it with joy and laughter. Roller coasters can do that to you. It's fast and fun. I am glad Mark loves roller coasters as much as i do. ;)

Spontaneous Day

2008-06-20T13:51:00.000-07:00

Yesterday after work. Mark and I decide to walk toward the Brooklyn bridge station to take the train home. But it was a beautiful day and the Sun was still up on the sky.
We were by the station and we noticed the bridge at a near distant. Mark says he never walked across the bridge. So i say let's do it. We both agree and decide to walk across and to Brooklyn. Brooklyn bridge is beautiful. The wooden walk way, the strong steel wires, the brick walls are a piece of art. We walk on this live art as we head toward Brooklyn. On the way we stop to take photos of the beautiful structure and sentries around. We both agree that we are so lucky to live in new york and why this is the greatest city in the world to us. On the right of you you can see Pier 17 where the memories of last summers outdoor dance party still lingers on. And on the left you can view this years public art project the NY water fall.
Once we go across we decide to check out Dumbo to grab a bite to eat. We find a restaurant called Rice. I have been there once before. It's a lovely restaurant with out door seating space. The wait staff is quite friendly. We were happy to have a bottle of beer and after our meal. We were invited to their downstairs "Low Bar" for a complementary drink on the owner. They were promoting their brand new bar. It was a nice lounge space. The ginger Mojito cocktail was good but our bar tender makes them strong and a bit spicy due to the ginger. Another word i would not have that drink again. We meet the Australian owner. Nice guy. He chats with us a bit. Mark decides this will be a great space for a birthday party or office party or even a scavenger hunt. The owner gives us two free drink tickets to come back again for next time we are in the area and decide we will be back there in another spontaneous day as this one. We head home on a cab.

Night of the Superheros

2008-06-16T13:36:00.000-07:00

This Saturdays Superheros party was great fun. The following guest came. Ramona, Julissa, Jill, Cristian, Ivan, Greg, Guillermo & Richard, Doreen & Cathrine, Vasili, Tobias, John S.& Mark & Meer. We had a great time. Dressing up as superheros. Me as DJ MAN! Mark as "Jet Set Man".

John came as Robyn from Bat man. Julissa as Capoeira Girl. Doreen as "Medusa". Mark made me a DJ station shield/weapon kinda thing with a used record player and card board and records. And we wore tights. We designed logos for our costumes and stuck them on top portion of our tights, with fabric glue. We all had fun listening to music, dancing, drinking beers. The people who made it in the rain, really got in to the party. We had extra superhero capes and stick on letters and masks for our friends. We did not made it to the roof because the rain did not stop all through the night.

But with the amount of people there it was just right for staying indoors. This was a a successful party even though the weather was not at it's best behavior. We made the best of the situation. I'll remember the party years from now with happy memories and the numerous photos and short videos me and my friends were taking. Now we have lot more decorating lights to keep in the storage and the woods that were to use to hang up the lights are tied up to the railings on the roof needs to come down. The party started at 8pm and by time we went to bed it was 4:30am. Julissa stays over next door at the empty apartment. The next day we wake up at 2:30pm. We felt much rested after the needed sleep. After cleaning up the apartment, we met Julissa and we head to "Peters restaurant" for a nice leisurely Sunday brunch. The restaurant had a garden in the back. The meal was nice. Afterward, Julissa comes back to the house with us to pick up her bag and after some conversation she heads home. Mark & I later go see a no brainier summer blockbuster "The incredible Hulk" starring "Edward Norton & Liv Tyler. The movie was fun and entertaining it was a great way to end the evening. It's Tuesday and work is a little busy.

WaterTaxi beach

2008-06-13T12:31:00.000-07:00

Last Sunday was fun. Not sure what i did early that day. Maybe it will come to me later. But later in the day Me, Manuela & Mark take the water taxi from 34th st on the west side to taxi beach in LIC. This was the first time I ever took the water taxi in NYC. It was a short ride but you get a spectaculer view of Manhattan sky line from the roof of the boat. You can see your destination from the city. It is very close. Once we get to the taxi beach. We make a trip to the ATM for some extra cash in a nearby restaurant. Afterward, we get inside. The beach is big enough and pleasent. They have sand all over the ground just like in a regular beach. There was a party going on there. It was a DJ line up of techno/eletronica music. I liked the free spirited crowd that was there. Although it was not mostly people who likes that type of music. They were ranging from mid twenties to thirties and some above the age of forties. It was pretty mixed with all different face of new york. People were wearing very laid back clothed. I think some were on Ecstasy by the looks of their face and they way they were acting. It seemed like it would be a great spot to take one. But not necessary to techno. It was a great location. They served beers and mix cocktails, They were also grilling up burgers and hot dogs and snack foods. There was a large tent under where the DJ was spinning. The DJ looked like someone who lived in williamsburg works for a retail and dj's as a part time gig. Although, later on he played one or two tracks from something I'd here at the 718 Sessions. We run in to Benny Soto the promoter of 718 Sessions. He was promoting this party as well. He tells us that 718 Session will have a party in this location sometimes this summer. Which is a very good news. I'd love to be there for this event. He also tell us that the 718 sessions boat party should be great as well. So two days later I get tickets for my self and bunch of friends some will pay me back. And now it's Friday and tomorrow will be our superhero theme party. This should be fun. I still have to plan out my costume but i am almost there.

Visiting family

2008-06-10T08:46:00.000-07:00

Last weekend I went to see my family in New Jersey and in Pennsylvania. Before I head to the train station and NJ, i took some photos of our street front box garden.
The flowers were blooming in full glory thanks to the Sun and the rain. There was a street fair at our block this past Saturday.
It was to raise money for the Church, located on the block. After a little breakfast at the Japanese breakfast place. Mark & I take a yellow cab to the 34th st. station. He continues downtown to meet his friend for brunch. While get on the train to NJ.

Mom lives in New Jersey with my brother and his new wife. It was great to see my Mom. She was a little worried when i left on my vacation. She forgot that i was in "Mexico". Since my phone was stolen it was a while before i was able to call her. I had to get her phone number from my brother first. I did not have his number either. But i remembered and was able to call my brother to get her number. It was nice to take some photos on the way to Elizabeth. and Pennsylvania. My sister and her family plus another brother lives in Pennsylvania. My second brother lives in Pennsylvania with his family. His little kid (my nephew) is very cute. He is very calm have big eyes. His name is "Akash" it means "Sky" I hope he grows up well and does good for himself and be free as the "sky". It was good to see my younger sister and my niece and nephew. They were happy to see me. I wish they lived closer. I miss seeing them. And when I see them it's never long enough. It takes very long to get to there place 2 hour drive from NJ. And it's takes a while for my brother and mom to get ready before we head out there. It's always like that, and i stopped asking them to hurry cause it won't make any difference. Most times I go visit my sister & her family with my older brother. He drives us to their place in PA from New Jersey. Over all it was a nice visit.

Presidential election

2008-06-06T13:59:00.000-07:00

I am a proud supporter for Obama. I was always rooting for him. With Obama we can change the politics of our government. We can move on to the next chapter of this countries future and I know it will be a better one. I want to share this video by will.i.am. It's well done. I can't wait till Obama becomes the first black president of the united states of America!

In a distant land

2008-06-04T08:17:00.000-07:00

I was in a beautiful place last week.I am just adding some photos for the time being. I enjoyed the beach and the train ride and discovering a land i never been before. And taking photos was so much fun. I love traveling!

Benito Juarez Airport - MEX

2008-06-01T13:31:00.000-07:00

On the Aero Mexico lounge in Mexico in Benito Juarez Airport waiting to board. The delta flight DL 484. At the moment the flight is delayed. At the current time the plane suppose to leave at 4:30pm and arrive in JFK at 10:20pm. a five hour flight! I hope to be home early enough to get a good night sleep.

I have to be at work in the morning. 9am to be exact but I like getting to work by 8:30am better early then late. Over all this was a great vacation. I love Mexico! will write more later since I need to leave the lounge to head to the gate. No photos at the moment. Mark just announced the plane is here. Yea! Can´t wait to get home. :-)

A Jihad for Love (after the premier)

2008-05-22T11:32:00.000-07:00

Last night at the IFC movie theater I went to see the premier of " A Jihad for Love" The documentary about stories of gay and lesbian Muslims around the world and their struggle with sexuality and their faith in Islam. I went with Mark L. I saw director Parvez Sharma & producer Sandi Dubowsky at the theater introducing their film along with Muhsin the first openly gay Imam. He is one of the main character of the film. We catched the 9:30pm show. The 7pm show was sold out, five days before the opening. I ran in to Danny Lee as I am moving in to the theater on the line. We say hi. I also get a glimpse of Shaffiq who was leaving the theater from the previous show. I don't get to say hello to him, i had to get in the theater along with the people who were going in fast to get the best seat available. I must say this was a great thought provoking documentary film it is very real and heartfelt. It's a film for anyone who had to struggle with their sexuality because of their religious belief. The film is also educational about Islam. It introduces the real Islam to the western crowd in a way that's not shown previously. It's not like how Islam potrayed in recent Hollywood films. Not about war and terrorist. The film rally touched me. I can relate to this film because I have to struggle with my own sexuality and having my faith in Islam. I felt peace knowing i am not the only one in this struggle (this Jihad). There are so many of my brothers and sisters around the world struggling and I felt as if even though we never met or seen each other we are there for each other and we are together in spirit through our struggle and the love of Allah.
http://www.ajihadforlove.com/home.html

Below an interview from Democracy now channel.

Living in the moment.

2008-05-21T06:18:00.000-07:00

Last week I was a bit down because I was not feeling my best. And when you don't feel good there are negative thoughts clouds your judgements. You start to see the world against you and you just think about yourself and how you can survive the week. But last night before going to bed during my prayer and meditative state I had a sudden realization that made me feel much better and I am so happy to understand the feeling, now flowing through my blood and vain. Maybe It was my first contact with almighty himself. :) The feeling was always there... help others and be selfless. I must consider the fact things could have been much worse. My little discomfort is noting compare to many people in the world or even people in my close circle. I am very grateful for the company I have and places I have been and people I met. Another time I had that feeling after seeing the film "Amélie". A part in the movie Amélie feel joy from doing good when nothing was working right for her. This is not to say I will not do things for myself. I know to live a truly happy and satisfied life I need to do things that makes me happy and satisfied. This is a slow process and it takes time. I hate the wait but i know noting happen right away it happens step by step. Taking it one day at a time. Stopping, taking a deep breath and reviewing my goals and making a list of things that I have prioritized.

I found a great article online along the line of what I was thinking. Here is the link. http://www.enotalone.com/article/2295.html

evening gathering

2008-05-20T13:57:00.000-07:00

Sunday evening we decided to throw a potluck dinner. After a short nap we went shopping for the food and then cleaned the place very well. After cleaning the space it looked brand new and we are planning to keep the place clean all the time. It was a good excuse to see some friends all at once. I made the dessert. An apple tart with a little help from Mark. It was pretty good. Some of our lovely guests said so. It was nice to see Gus, Bill, Andre, Manuela, Julissa and her friend, Jose Carlos, Jill, Frank and Denise. And we also met our next door temporary neighbors. They are nice. It seemed like everyone had a nice time. A good way to end Sunday and welcome the short work week before leaving for Mexico on Friday!

For a greater cause

2008-05-20T10:56:00.000-07:00

Got up early to get ready and head to Central Park for Aids Walk. Mark joined me. It was very sweet of him to come along. I met up with Talib his friend Delano & Kia. And the rest of the team for GMHC. The day started out nice it was sunny and warm. For the time we were walking it stayed light.

Until the end of the walk it started to rain. But we were done by that time so it did not effect us much. It was amazing to see so many people walking along with us. Although, sometimes it was too crowded. But we found alternative paths and had a pleasant walking experience. Central park is so pretty in late spring. I have to go back on a weekend one day just to take lots and lot's of photos.

Gregory's Bday

2008-05-20T09:25:00.000-07:00

Saturday night was Gregory's birthday. It was held at Mix lounge in West village. Gregory was there with his BF Tony. They are both very sweet guys.

Earlier in the day after work I met up with Jamel and we saw a movie "Iron Man" it was quite fun. The message in the movie was nothing new but it was a good message non the less. Jamel & I take a cab from the east side and have bite at Manatus Restaurant (it's a diner). We chit chat and catch up with current events.

Manuela met up with us soon as we finish dinner and we head to Mix Lounge where we meet up with Gregg and the rest of the gang! We danced to whatever the DJ was spinning. It was a fun short night. Had to go to bed early cause Sunday we participated on the Aids Walk.

Dancing on the Street

2008-05-19T07:50:00.000-07:00

Dancing on the streets of New York was so much fun. Just like last year Manuela, Mark & I get on the road again and danced all the way from 28th St & Bway to Tomkins Square Park.

There was lots of dancing and it was shared with a very fun house group. The Melting Pot NYC. Louis & Reina is part of the crew and our friend Ravi & Lesly meets up with us.

We danced, walked, skipped down the road with the rest of the dance friendly crowd of the extra ordinary cheerful New York crowd. It's always fun being in the parade then being a spectator. This was another sunny happy day and will be remembered.

A Jihad for love

2008-05-16T09:32:00.000-07:00

I am going to go see this movie called a Jihad for Love. It's about homosexuality and being a muslim. This is a film produced by my aquentence Sandi Dubowski and directed by Pervez Sharma. I know Pervez through Sandi on Sandi's annual "Virgo unite" party. Below is the preview. http://www.ifccenter.com/index

Shady Lady

2008-05-16T08:07:00.000-07:00

On the 4 train heading back home I luckily find a seat in the packed to capacity train. A little later on 14th Street this woman comes in and seats right next to me in a small spot of my left. It was a crowded train. People in front and the right of me. I was reading the an article on the ny times about earthquake in china. As I was folding the paper, the woman brush the newspaper with her hand rudely. I was like okay i'll let this one slide. Then a little later she brush my knees with her with a gesture of moving my knees away from her. I was like oh no she did not.
I feel annoyed at the moment and say to her "Miss all you have to say is excuse me" well I guess I should have kept my mouth shut. cause all hells break lose afterward. She tells me she will punch me on my face if I touch her again and what not and goes on and on for at least a minute. I am like what? Please... I have no interest in you what so ever. Nor that I want to touch you. What I really felt like saying "you just try shady lady" or REED her from cover to cover so that she never recover" maybe a line from "Venus Xtravaganza of Paris is Burning" "You are just an over grown ranga tang"

but I decide it's wise not to take this any further. At this point I say "whatever" and decide not to instigate the situation. This lady is just looking for a fight and I am not going to let her ruin my day.

As I get off on my stop. I realized she is getting off there as well. I was like darn... I hope I never run in to her again. Then again this New York city and soon or later I might run in to her.

I tell the story to Mark and he says if we see her again on the way back home or to work he'll rub next to her and if she say something he'll say are you touching me lady and if so you better back off or else. This made me laugh thinking if this was really happening i would record the event from a distant and put on my blog. ha ha

Out on the field

2008-05-14T19:02:00.000-07:00

So... check this out. Today I am a proud owner of a soccer ball. It was a beautiful day in NYC. Mostly sunny in the mid 70 degrees. It got a little chilly in the evening. Earlier in the afternoon at lunch Ricardo my colleague/friend decide we will go play soccer in Central Park after work.
The original plan was, to go to his place, so he can get his soccer gear. And also to borrow the ball from his downstairs neighbor. Unfortunately his neighbor was not home and the neighbors roommate could not find the ball. So we decide to purchase one from Modell's. We get on a gypsy cab (a gypsy cab runs in certain area's in new york where not many regular cab's around) to the Modell sport store on 86th & 3rd Ave. Upstairs we found a soccer ball we both liked. We decide to purchase it. And then we get on the cross town M86 bus to 86th St. and Fifth Ave. After we get off the bus we walk down a little. We were planning to get to sheep's meadow around 65th St in the middle of Central Park. As we were walking down fifth ave we notice a bus heading down town so we quickly get on it and head further down. We get off at 67th St & fifth. Get inside the park on 68th St and Fifth Ave and walk pass the Central Park Summer Stage and the Concert Hall before we come to our destination.
We had no problem with plying in the nice fluffy grass. It was lots of fun. We kicked the ball around for a bit to warm up. We were practicing our kicking ability. :)

And a little later we decide to play for score. We made one goal area with our backpacks and decide to play against one another. We decide to play for 5 goals. Whoever scores the fifth goal wins. Lucky for me I won. It was exhausting running around. I have not played in a long time since I stopped playing with my team. Although I was glad to play again. I love this game. It reminds me of my childhood. It reminds me of back in Bangladesh when I used to sneak out of my house to meet up with my buddies and played all day till the sun went down.

The park was closing and the park keeper tells us to leave. We pack our stuff and decide to walk back to 86th St & 5th Ave. On the way back Ricardo tell me many stories about his friends, they were funny. We take the cross town bus back toward our home. Ricardo gets off at 3rd ave to transfer toward the uptown bound bus . And I continue on home...

Paris & Back

2008-05-12T11:43:00.000-07:00

Got back on Sunday night around 10 pm. Over all it was a successful short little get away. Got on the plane "Air France" on Thursday after work. Got there Friday morning around 7 am. Was tired from not sleeping well. So when we got to the house of Mark's friends Patrick & Gaitan. It was time to take a nap.

After the nap we both felt much better. We met up with Mark's friend Charlotte who we came to visit. It was nice meeting her. She is sweet. We had lunch and went to Luxembourg Garden afterward to look around. Then went to a Laduree cafe. Very french had some Macaroon's and Cafe creme. The macaroon's were tasty. The cookies were macaroons… see the website!
http://www.laduree.fr/public_en/historique/histoire_macaron.htm

Afterward Mark & I head to Louvre just to take photos and walk around the area. Then back to the house for some more nap before heading back out for a little dinner at Le Philosophers at the Le Marais area. That area is very lively at night.

Saturday we got up early and met up with Charlotte. After some breakfast near where we stayed we take the bus to the flea market where we look around for many stuff and Mark buys some vintage signs.

One of a 50's ad for champagne where a guy in tux is toasting a glass with his lady friend and anther of a Pepsi cola sign. I like the Pepsi Cola sign it is square tin with picture of a Original Pepsi bottle cap.

I found some vintage key chains as I did in the flea market of Brazil. And some cute little figurines.

Afterward, we took a bus to Sainte-Chapelle (Holy Chapel) to view the beautiful Gothic church. The church was build with lots of window and with many stain glass. The chapel was built by King Louis IX of France in 1248. It was a beautiful spring day... blue sky and lot's of sun light. The light through the stain glass windows looked marvelous.

We walked around some more until we stop to have lunch at a very cute restaurant near the river. We had some pullet & french fries with a refreshing pint of 1664 & Laffe Blonde beer. We then do some shopping in the neighborhood and decide to check out Notredame the Gothic Cathedral. We walk around the church and stop to seat at a park bench next to the cathedral. I took photos around the area while Mark and Charlotte have their conversation. We wanted to go on the roof of Notredame but we were too late for that. Charlotte goes home and we walked back to the house to rest. But as we get there. We realized the house cat Olive was missing. We looked every ware and can not find her. Mark decides to call Patrick. He say it's probably hiding in some place like behind the sink or something. A friend Pier Anton shows up trying to find the cat. Later the cat comes back on it's own. It was a big relief to see her back. This would not been a smooth little get away if the cat was missing. We celebrate finding of the cat with Pier Anton by opening the bottle of Champaign our host left for us. The Champaign makes it easy for us to take a nap. So we take an hour and half nap. Afterward, we head out to dinner to a nice restaurant where they only served different types of salads. The food was delicious. We walk around some more checked out a bar before heading home.

The next day we wake up late and met up for brunch with Charlotte. I had an Omlette with cafe cream. Then walk around and take photos of the Eiffel tower on the way to a primitive art museum. The primitive art museum the building itself was quite interesting. It was modern in contrast to what it held. We had a short time to see everything and needed time to go to the souvenir shop to pick up a little something for my niece. Afterward, Mark and I say good bye to Charlotte and get on the Metro to Patrick & Gaitans place to pick up our luggage and take a train to the airport. We realize once we got on the train there is no place to buy a ticket so. After we got off the train we jump the turnstile to get off the station. Luckily no one saw us doing that. :)

The flight coming back was easy. Watched three movies. "The Jumper" this one sucked. "The Golden Compus" this one was so so. & "My super Ex Girlfriend" this one was better then the last two. It was funny. But I would not go buy the DVD for my collection you know what i'm saying!

Last night and today

2008-05-08T07:15:00.000-07:00

Last night we had a little dinner get together. Beside Mark & myself. Tanya & Jill was present. Jill is Mark's next door neighbor. She is sweet and have lot's of funny stories to share about her school and her students. Mark made a Thai dish with noodles, mushroom chicken and some Thai spice. It was very yummy. We ordered some Thai appetizers from a Thai restaurant near by. Curry Puffs and Vegetable spring rolls. They were good too. Jill brought in a bottle of red. Tanya introduced me to a french music group "Yelle"

and telling me about this dance movement in Paris called Tecktronik. Everyone in France is doing it. Maybe the hipsters in Williamsburg will catch on. It seems like it's a cross between voguing & rave.

Besides that I am excited about flying to Paris today! Mark & I both going. Mostly to visit his friend Cherlet. I am excited about taking lot's of photos. It's so nice there at this time of the month. The temperature suppose to be mid 70 degree Fahrenheit. (photo credit: Web Designer Ramblings)

I love Music

2008-05-07T06:25:00.000-07:00

First of all I love this song by Robyn. Called "Drem on". It's been on my head all day today and I was listening to it on the Subway to work this morning and now listening to the song again at work on the itunes. Just love it!

I recently bought some cd's at the Virgin Record store in Union Square. The new Madonna CD "Hard Candy" is quite good. Besides the hit "4 Minutes" tracks like "Beat Goes On" featuring Kanye West is off the hook. I also love "Miles Away" & "Dance 2Night".

Next cd I bought was "Flight Of The Concord" They are Jemaine Clement and Bret Mckenzie. A duo from New Zealand. They have show on HBO named the same. They are funny. I like the song "Robots" , "Foux Du Fafa"& "Ladies Of The World".

Next CD I bought is "Defected in the House/Miami 08" It is
a three cd compilation album. Good house music. If you need some music to dance to I'd recommend this CD.

Mark met up with me at the record store and he bought two DVD's the new relesed "Juno" the 2007 comedy-drama with up & coming acctress Ellen Page.It won the Academy Award for Best Screenplay and recived three oscar nominations including Best Picture. The movie is about a sharp-tongued teenager confronting an unplanned pregnancy. (Michael Cera & Jason Bateman) from TV show Arrested Development also stars in this perfectly cast Movie.

Also the classic 1961 movie "Breakfast at Tiffany's". Breakfast at Tiffany's starting Audrey Hepburn and George Peppard is one of Odvar & my favoraite. We used to watch it back in my Brooklyn apartmet. There are some good lines in the movie. And Audrey Hepburn singing "Moon River" is priceless.

I told Mark to get "Robyn"'s cd. And I am glad he listened. :-). It's a great CD. I was looking for someone refreshing and she is just that. It's a well produced pop/dance cd. I love the remix track of "Handle Me". Also track "Who's that Girl" and "With Every Heartbeat". She is a new comer to watch out for this year. Go get her album it's very catchy!

Art works

2008-05-06T10:29:00.000-07:00

I found some art work looking through my stacked up papers and stuff when I was cleaning and getting ready to take it to storage. I decided to photograph some of them so I can look back later. The Bjork painting is now on top of Mark's bed. I found a sketch book with some drawings inside. One of them was of Bjork. Another one of me. A painting of the front porch of a friends house. A sketch of a tree bark that I did in the year 2000 in Woodstock NY. The fireplace painting was done upstate as well. I found some photos I printed out three years ago. The photos are of marvelous blue sky's. All these items filled with old happy memories are now a little bit of my new memories and soon to become old again. Because time is flying...

The Old House

2008-05-06T08:48:00.000-07:00

I stopped by at 39 Withers yesterday to pick my social security card and to check if there were some email there for me. I found the social security card on top the microwave and on the Silver table that Boris left there for me to pick up.

The place was painted in white.

There was a new brown sofa that replaced the one legged black table. Boris's paintings were still there. By going back there made me missed the space. After all it was my place. By being there it reminded me of all the nice get together and nice memories of the time I spent there.

I miss the washing machine and the bathroom wall, wallpapered with maps.

Cinco de Mayo + Monday

2008-05-05T13:22:00.000-07:00

It's Cinco de Mayo today. 5th of May. The day 4,000 Mexican soldiers in Puebla won the war against 8,000 french and traitor Mexican soldiers. On the morning of May 5th, 1862. Go Mexico!

Can't wait to go there on last week of May. I love Mexican food. And I love Mexican people.

In any case, It's Monday... I am back at work. But before leaving work I took some photos of the flowers on the front area of where I live. Mark & I planted them two weeks ago and they are starting to come out. It's looks nice in the morning when we leave the house to get to work. I took some more photo of the Gerber flower and the plants at Mark's window and the stiling' glass containers with the money plants on them. I love the little "plastic cube" under one of the small container. It catches the morning light beautifully. I bought this for Mark from the Milwaukee Art museum store in Wyoming. So it kind of goes with he containers bought from Moma.

Sunday

2008-05-05T10:59:00.000-07:00

Sunday 5.4.08 I went to my Yoga class in the morning. It felt really good afterward. We had a substitute teacher this time but she was a good instructor. Although I like our original instructor. Afterward I met up with Mark & we got something to eat at the Union Square park. It was a very nice day. Then we went the Brooklyn Botanical garden for their annual Sakura Matsuri Cherry Blossom Festival. It was a beautiful day at the park. Bright sunny and very colorful all around. Mark & I took lots of photos. I loved how some of the photos turned out they are up on my flicker account at the moment. Afterward, we came back home and Mark took a nap while I checked my email and relaxed a bit until later around 6 pm we head down to Webster Hall for 718 Sessions with our favoraite DJ Danny Krivit for some soulful house music and dancing. We met up with Manuela, Ramona & Bill and danced up a swet. It was a fun evening. Later we went to Vaselka dinner in the East Village for some late night snack. It was Ramona, Mark & I. Manuela was there for a little but she had to go because it takes a while for her to go home all the way uptown.

Saturday

2008-05-05T10:34:00.000-07:00

May 3rd 08. Saturday we went to Great Adventure in Jackson, New Jersey. There were eight of us. Clockwise from the left Miguel, Norman, Mark Solan, Andre Lee, Robert, Mark L., Eddie & Me. Mark L rented a big car. We met up around union square after 9 am. After everyone showed up we took off to Six Flags. We got on altogether 12 rollercoster. Some of them more then once. It was kinda cloudy and there were not much of a line for the rides.

Started with "King da Ka" the worlds talest drop and my favoraite wooden coster "El Toro" (pictured). We all aggreed El Toro was the best. Second favoraite was "Nitro" and "Medusa" was a good one as well. It was a very fun day.

Friday May 2, 2008

2008-05-05T09:35:00.001-07:00

Jason and went to see a play it's called Wanderlust. It was a one man play about the actors journey to Africa. The actor's name is Martin Dockery. He is a great story teller. Jason & I met up at XES bar before we head to the theater in mid town Manhattan. We had a nice evening catching up. We don't hang out much and I will make more effort to hang out with him this year.

Last Evening

2008-05-01T19:23:00.000-07:00

After work I went to see a movie. "Forbidden Kingdom" staring Jackie Chan, Jet Lee & Michael Aragrano. It was a fun Kong Fu movie. I would recommend it. I went to the Movie with my co-worker Ricardo. He says he liked the movie as well. There were lot's of fight scene. I was in the mood for a kong fu movie and it was perfect. It was in the union Square theater. It's in a convenient location. Afterward I went to Virgin Records and bought 3 CD's The new Maddona's album "Hard Candy" It's quite good. The more i listen to it the better it gets. I like the track "Beat Goes On","Miles Away","She's Not Me","Incredible" & "4 Minutes". Also bought "Flight of the Concord" it's a funny Album. And a 3 CD completion "Defected in the House Miami" Lot's of good up todate house music. Can't wait to listen to the third CD. So far I listened to the Madonna CD & the "Flight of the Concord". That's it for now. :-)

This Morning

2008-05-01T06:46:00.000-07:00

This morning the the flowers at the wiondow looked lovely. I love the red Garbers that I bought over the weekend on the way to PA. They were a little down the other day with lack of water but after I put water on the ground the flowers came right back like magic.

I love the glass containers I bought from MoMa store. I think they look lovely on Mark's window. Back in brooklyn they were on top of the silver table. At the moment I only have money plants in them but I am looking to put other hydroponic plants soon as I get them. Not sure where in the city I should look...

Mark put some new plants on the fire escape. Some flowers too. They looked nice by the window.

The Bjork painting hangs above the bed at the moment. Mark is taking a short nap before heading to work. He was sleepy this morning.

Spring is here! - April/May 2008

2008-04-30T07:02:00.001-07:00

A while ago I started a photo set in flickr.com titled Spring in New York. I am planing to go to the Brooklyn Botanical Garden on Sunday May 4th for there annual cherry blossom festival. I saw a little clip on the am new york today. They mentioned, the garden in Brooklyn have the largest collection of cherry trees outside Japan. The annual Matsuri Cherry blossom festival is in this weekend.