Tag Archives: The BCPF

The Last of My Colored Hair or: How Long, Now?

15 Tuesday May 2018

Posted by in Food, Life as We Know It, The Less Desirables Network

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Salutations™!!

So, I’m going to spare you the whole “it was 16 years ago today at 2:42pm, that my awesome son was unleashed upon this world” story. But, really, that’s what happened. So, instead, I’m going to tell you about the thing that happened today, which I’m sure you can figure out what that is. But, time’s up and I’m going to tell you anyway.

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Yeah, that’s my kid…

 

Yeah, his mother and I accompanied 3B to the local DMV/Highway Patrol office and watched him and a nice officer drive off in her vehicle. They were gone about 10 minutes at the most and then they came back. I thought, uh oh. That didn’t take too long. That can’t be good. But, the instructor confirmed that she hadn’t been scared by his driving.

3B is a good driver. I still worry about his immaturity but I guess you have to let them grow up, right? I mean Mes ‘Rents gave me room and always hoped that I’d grow up. I don’t think that I ever did, though.

So, yeah, he passed it on his first try. Look out WSNC (and Pinnacle and all points in between).

In all this happening, we didn’t record The Man Who Ate the Town today, but in missing that, I want to give a big shout out to our sponsors anyway. Washington Perk is your downtown purveyor of fine provisions. It’s not a grocery store, no, but it’s better than a convenience store. Sandwiches from the Perk deli counter, a wall of beer and wine, a chip corner, Larry’s Beans coffee and, of course, Wolfie’s Custard. You can find them at 301 W 4th Street in WSNC.

For the best cookies and baked goods in town, much of which is gluten-free and/or vegan, you have to go to The Humble Bee Shoppe located at 1003 Brookstown Ave in WSNC. Brittany makes everything from scratch and as we say, she wants to challenge your perception of scratch-made and give you a baked goodness experience that you’ll never forget!

Di Lisio’s Italian Family Restaurant is my favorite Italian restaurant in town. Tony is my favorite Italian. I’ve never made any bones about that, right? Kelly and The BCPF both agree with me, too. Homemade sauces, delicious seafood and meat options with a variety of pasta to choose from. Di Lisio’s goes beyond lasagne and spaghetti but if that is what you like, you will love Di Lisio’s! They”re located at 301 Brookstown Ave.

Thanks to all our sponsors for everything they do. And, hey! I’ve not received any playlists, yet. Get with it folks! And, watch out for my boy out there on the road.

Until tomorrow, same blog channel…
Scorp out!

—
“I’m not ready for this…” – 3B’s mother, my “baby mama.”

Piggybackin’ Chef or: Velveteen Dream

08 Tuesday May 2018

Posted by in Food, Life as We Know It, Podcasting

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Salutations™!!

Kelly and I were joined by one of my man crushes, Chef Travis Myers. He talked about things happening at Willows Bistro, his life, his family, his history. We had a grand ol’ time with Chef today. 20180508_193455

We talked about some closings, some relocating and a brand new name for Triad Community Kitchen. You can listen to it all right HERE. It was a great conversation. He had fun.

But, my day wasn’t done there. The BCPF got home early and we went to get her latest piece of body art. Of course, that can only mean that Byron Weeks, owner of Earth’s Edge, was doing a tattoo for her.

This one is from one of her favorite childhood stories, The Velveteen Rabbit by Margery Williams. It’s a sad, yet happy little tale and she has tried to read it to me before but she always cries through it. Let’s just say that she really, really loves it and it means a lot more to her than “just a story.” That must be true because she just had it permanently put on her body. It’s on her right upper arm. She was a trooper, not really even wincing much at all. Byron said he was using a gun that had less pressure on it, too so the pain was significantly less than previous. Also, that location is easier to take than some of the other places she’s had them.

It looks really good, too. She has two of the most beautiful and three of the most unique tats I’ve ever seen. No, she doesn’t have five, only two. The “Mary Poppins” around her ankle isn’t what I’d call beautiful but it’s beautifully unique and I love it on her. The heron on her calf and this newest one, though, those are some amazing work and we have to give a ton of props to Byron for his vision, willingness to work with us and just a joy to be around.

I have to say if you’re in want or “need” of a tattoo, and you don’t have a personal artist for that, check Byron out. He does amazing work, really. Earth’s Edge can be found at 1800 Silas Creek Pkwy, in WSNC. Byron says he’s the “best prick in town” and I agree with him. I know The BCPF does, too.

Thanks for reading and listening.

Until tomorrow, same blog channel…
Scorp out!

—
“Real isn’t how you are made. It’s a thing that happens to you. When a child loves you for a long, long time, not just to play with, but REALLY loves you, then you become Real.” – The Skin Horse (The Velveteen Rabbit by Margery Williams)

Spinning Sunday or: The Haul 5/4-5/18

06 Sunday May 2018

Posted by in Records, Silent Sunday, Spinning Sunday

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Salutations™!!

First off, notice I changed the title of this one. It seems my Sunday posts are a bit verbose at times, and they’re usually about records. Neither of which really lends to the “silent” aspect of Silent Sunday. So, I think I’m changing the “haul” posts up a bit. I’ll still do Silent Sunday for non-record posts.

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©A&M

 

Well, this is a little different in the record category, as well. I went to Underdog Records, three different times from Friday to Saturday. I went on Friday because I didn’t think I’d get there Saturday because of a party we were having with a dear friend of ours. That included a bus and beer. Yep. Bus. Beer. And, also, on Friday, I was given a few records by a friend of mine. She said, here you can have these. Some of them ended up crossing off a few entries off the RS List. So, here’s what we got:

  • Poison – Open Up and Say…Ahh! – Yeah, I know it’s cheesy “hair metal” but I don’t care. I love this album. I think Bret Michaels sings perfectly well for what they were. Still, when people talk hair metal, I’d say 17 out of 20 would say Poison first. This was a reissue, so new.
  • Dr. Dog – Critical Equation – A new album from a band that, to me, sounds like a mixture between Robert Smith of the Cure and Bob Dylan. It’s right up The BCPF’s alley and that’s why I picked it. New.
  • Liz Phair – Exile In Guyville – #327 on the RS List, this was a reissue on 180g vinyl to celebrate its 25th anniversary. It’s a great album. She’s ballsy for a chick. That’s a good thing. New.
  • Bob Dylan – Desire – #174 on the RS List. It was there in the used bin and in VG condition.
  • Frankie Goes To Hollywood – Welcome To The Pleasuredome – Yep, this is the “Relax” album, which is all most people know about. My second favorite song from the band is also on this album, “Two Tribes (For the Victims of Ravishment).” VG
  • Ella Fitzgerald – Ella Fitzgerald Sings The Johnny Mercer Song Book – Ella. ‘Nuff said. VG+.
  • Crosby-Nash – Live – Another rendition/combination involving any or all members of CSNY. Jonathan said it’s great so well see. VG+.
  • Stephen Stills – Stephen Stills 2 – Another in the CSNY shuffle.
  • The Motels – All Four One – “Only the Lonely” is on this one. I love that song and I want to hear more from them. VG+.
  • Bruce Springsteen – Nebraska – #226 on the RS List, it was a little more on the subdued side. That’s okay. I think I gave it a neutral review on the list. VG+.
  • Journey – Infinity – The first with Steve Perry singing and the last with Aynsley Dunbar on drums. I’d say “Wheel in the Sky” was the big hit on this one. VG+.
  • Stan Getz – Stan Getz I hope this is as good as the other Stan Getz things I have. I love his stuff. VG.
  • Squeeze  – Cosi Fan Tutti Frutti – I like Squeeze. It was there. I grabbed it. Done. VG+.
  • Fleetwood Mac – Heroes Are Hard To Find – Pre-Buckingham/Nicks Mac with Bob Welch still in the band. I like Bob Welch. Let’s see what we got. VG+.
  • The Alan Parsons Project – Eve – Another in the Alan Parsons Project cannon! VG++.
  • 10cc – Bloody Tourists – I love the song “Dreadlock Holiday” which is about reggae. I think it’s a great song. We’ll see what the rest of it sounds like. VG++.
  • Supertramp – “…Famous Last Words…” – I see a few of my friends talk about this album as something special. I like Supertramp, let’s see. NM.

These are the ones that were “gifted” to me:

So, a pretty big haul there. Thanks, Lori for the gifts. And thank you Underdog Records for providing me a “candy store” to be proud of. And thanks to Discogs for providing such a great place for me to catalog my stuff!

Until tomorrow, same blog channel…
Scorp out!

—
“Winter is here again oh lord. Haven’t been home in a year or more. I hope she holds on a little longer. Sent a letter on a long summer day. Made of silver, not of clay. I’ve been runnin’ down this dusty road.” – “Wheel in the Sky” (Schon/Fleischman/Valory)

Reaching the Beach or: Shipping Up to Boston

03 Thursday May 2018

Posted by in Life as We Know It, Travel

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Salutations™!!1tix

Here’s the phone conversation:

The BCPF: “Hello.”
Me: “So, baby… I love you!”
The BCPF: “Um… I love you.”
Me: “I fixed the shower (it had been leaking really badly (I was proud of myself – that’s another conversation)).”
The BCPF: “Yay! Thank you.”
Me: “And… I love you!”
The BCPF (with trepidation): “I love you…?”
Me: “So, I made a little purchase today.”
The BCPF: “Okay…?”
Me: “You know how we’ve gone to several concerts to see your bands and you told me it was my turn next?”
The BCPF (cautiously): “Yeah…?”
Me: “Well, I purchased tickets to something. And, it’s on our anniversary weekend.”
The BCPF: “Okay…?”
Me (after a pregnant pause): “And… it’s in Boston.”
The BCPF: “WHOA!!!”
Me: “I LOVE YOU!”
The BCPF (stutteringly): “Wha… er… um…  Okay, so, two questions…”
Me: “Okay. I love you!”
The BCPF: “First: who is it?”
Me: “The Fixx.”
The BCPF: “Really!?”
Me: “Yep.”
The BCPF: “Okay… Second: how are you paying for this?”
Me: “I had a bit from a new sponsor.”
The BCPF: “So, I don’t have to pay for it?”
Me: “Nope. I’ve already done it.”
The BCPF (still stutteringly): “Wha… er… um… ”
Me: “I LOVE YOU!”

So, that’s almost word-for-stuttering-word the conversation. I partially blame Doug Davis, yes, that Doug Davis for it, although, it’s a good blame. You know, Dear Reader, how I post all these records that I listen to on my Instagram/Facebook/Twitter almost daily? Well, I posted one on Tuesday that was The Fixx’s Phantoms. Doug mentioned that they were still doing gigs with the classic lineup and that they were touring but nowhere around here. I said, “ROAD TRIP!!”

And, apparently, I wasn’t kidding. I went online, as one does, and looked up their tour. There was one in Nashville and some all across the country but here this one was on Labor Day, September 3. Our anniversary – you’ll remember because I don’t dare allow you to forget it – is on September 2. It just so happened to be in Boston. There were four tix left. I bought one. The venue, City Winery, only seats about 200 people it appears so it will be intimate.

We have both mentioned, several times, that we wanted to go to Boston one day. We are also the couple that will talk about doing stuff but won’t actually pull the trigger on making big plans until we “have reason to.” We haven’t been anywhere for our anniversary since our honeymoon and serendipity says that those two stones could be knocked out by one bird. That bird (or Bee-man) was me.

We agreed, once she was able to breathe, that we’d just have to tighten up and save for some stuff. Turns out, I had some Sky Miles with Delta and was able to book roundtrip tix from GSO to BOS for only $56 cash (travel insurance and all). Plus, I still have some Sky Miles to use later. So, that was taken care of. A reason and the transportation.

Now, just to find the right accommodations. I scanned my known inventory of hotels (no I’m no longer a travel agent, but I know where to look) and found something that I know that The BCPF would love (she loves classic “old” places) and settled on the Omni Parker House in the “North End (or just right outside of it)” which is about 2 blocks from the inspiration for Cheers (one of our favorite shows to watch together) and about that far from the venue to see the band. It’s on the “Freedom Trail” and we will get to do a lot of exploring of the “cradle of American civilization (as I call it),” Boston.

The hotel itself has a rich literary history involving both Edith Wharton and Charles Dickens (her two favorite authors) and other literary figures, plus it is where (allegedly) the Bostom Cream Pie was perfected and the Parker House roll was invented. There are about 30 more things I found about it but will save that for when I travel. It was also the least expensive in that area but still a 4-star hotel. We will be there for five nights.

As for The Fixx. I know that I like them. I love what I have heard, which is actually more than what they play on the radio, still. I have three albums by them and really, really dig them. They will be playing Reach the Beach in its entirety which celebrates its 35th anniversary in 12 days (3B’s birthday).  This is the album with “Saved By Zero” and “One Thing Leads to Another.” It’s also the farthest I’ve ever traveled to see a band. The previous record was driving to Greenville, South Carolina to see KISS, Jackyl, and Trixter. You’d think if I was going to do this it would be for my favorite band or at least one that I identify as a “fan” of. Like I said, I love what I have and will learn even more before September. I promise that! So, it looks like we’re going to have fun in Boston.

I know a good bit of you have been to Boston. What would you recommend? I know that she already has most of the trip planned already (not really) but I’d like to hear some “must see,” especially food places and beer places (yes, we’ll probably go to Samuel Adams). Thanks in advance for that!

Until tomorrow, same blog channel…
Scorp out!

—
“Crying parents tell their children, ‘if you survive, don’t do as we did.’ A son exclaims there’ll be nothing to do to. Her daughter says she’ll be dead with you. While foreign affairs are screwing us rotten, line morale has hit rock bottom. Dying embers stand forgotten. Talks of peace were being trodden. Stand or fall. State your peace tonight.” – “Stand or Fall” (Curnin/West-Oram/Woods/Greenall/Barrett)

Relief or: Cult-Like

27 Friday Apr 2018

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Salutations™!!

I meant to write this earlier today but time wasn’t on my side.

I mentioned in my post yesterday that I had yet another doctor’s appointment. It was with a dermatologist. Her name was Dr. Liu. My general practitioner referred me to her when I asked him about something on my back. no-c

About four months ago, I had a place that was a bit itchy on my back. It was one of those places that was under the skin but continued to itch no matter how much I scratched. I made it worse because I continued to scratch. At one point, it welted up and I kept on it. I rubbed it raw and it scabbed up. It became slightly discolored. It continued to itch.

So, I asked my doc about it and he said it could be eczema or it could be a basal cell (which could be cancerous). I don’t care who you are and no matter how minor it may be, you hear the “‘C’ Word” and that will mess with your mind. I’ll admit that I was feeling a bit sorry for myself and worried even though I told myself I wasn’t going to. It’s hard not to.

I had my appointment around 2:20p today and The BCPF went with me. She took about 45 seconds to look at it and then asked me to stand up (I was having a full-body exam). She said, “my goodness those are huge calves!” If you don’t know me, I have always had huge calves, even when I was a skinny kid. It was funny. We all laughed. After that, she told me that it was most likely a pinched nerve at one time and then I made it irritated and then it turned into, as she said, “a discolored itchy spot.” Not cancer. That was amazing to hear. A wash of relief came over me. That was great news. The BCPF and I high-fived each other. I didn’t want to say anything until I knew what the dealio was.

Again, I meant to talk about that earlier today but I didn’t sleep too well last night with the new CPAP. So, I napped a bit today. Tonight, I played some Cult songs with my pals Clay, Chad, Neal, and Lee. It was fun. We did pretty well. I’m tired. I’m going to bed.

Nite.

Until tomorrow, same blog channel…
Scorp out!

—
“Discolored itchy spot” – Dr. Liu

Silent Sunday or: The Haul – Record Store Edition

22 Sunday Apr 2018

Posted by in Records, Silent Sunday

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Salutations™!!

So, the thing I want to say first is this: as much as I don’t mind the cold, sitting outside when the temperature drops to 41° and the wind comes barreling in at 3:45am in the morning and you’re in line for the Super Bowl of Records and Vinyl. That “ish” sucks like a Hoover. But, that’s exactly what we did right outside of Underdog Records. The BCPF and I camped along with a few of our vinyl friends all night Friday night/Saturday morning to be the first four (actually six but two pairs and two individuals) in the door to make sure we get our wants/wishlist filled for Record Store Day.

They'reallgonnalaughatyou

©Warner Bros.

 

We went to eat at Mary’s Gourmet Diner directly after and then we went home and crashed for FIVE hours. We got up and listened a little before heading to Willows Bistro to have dinner with friends of ours, The Johnsons. Anywhat! You came for the list, right? I will say that all of these are brand new/NM (because I’m opening them). I’ll also put down who wanted and/or picked it up (Scorp/The BCPF). Here is the list:

  • Fleetwood Mac – The Alternate Tango In The Night – I love the original Tango in the Night. I was kind of disappointed with this. I mean, it’s good, but I was hoping for true alternate takes of “Big Love” and “Everywhere.” There were cool things on it, but I didn’t get my full satisfaction out of it but that’s okay. I’ll listen over and over anyways. This was my top RSD priority. (Scorp)
  • Living Colour – “Live From CGGB’s” Tuesday 12/19/89 – Actually picked up by The BCPF. She saw them open for the Rolling Stones on this tour and wanted to capture it. I’d think it was a little out of her wheelhouse but I was happy she got it. I have always loved what I’ve heard from Living Colour. 2xLP. (The BCPF)
  • The Cure – Mixed Up – A remastered remix album that came out on my 20th birthday (which, by the way, means 1990) and The BCPF loved it. It’s on a 2xLP picture disc set and it’s pretty awesome. I loved the remixes, too. I hadn’t heard them before.  2xLP. (The BCPF)
  • The Cure – Torn Down: Mixed Up Extras 2018 – A sequel to the 1990 remix album Mixed Up. It is even more remixes, done by Robert Smith. 2xLP. (The BCPF)
  • Adam Sandler – They’re All Gonna Laugh At You! – My favorite Adam Sandler album. I got the only one that Jonathan got in. I don’t know how many he ordered but he only received one. I think it’s Sandler’s best. A mix of really great sketches and really good songs. There may be a clunker here and there but overall, it’s great! I’m glad I was where I was in line because the guy behind us wanted it and he drove all the way from New Bern to do his RSD shopping. Sorry, Jason. Looking at his haul though, I’d say he spent close to if not over $1000 that day, so I figured I saved him a few bucks. 2xLP. (Scorp)
  • Ella Fitzgerald – Ella At Zardi’s – Zardi’s Jazzland was a jazz-focused music venue in Los Angeles in the ’50s. It was world-famous and a lot of top-name jazz folks played there, including, Ella. There were only two of these that Jonathan got and it was a top priority for The BCPF, which because our pal Michael got the other, left our friend Bill out. Sorry, Bill. 2xLP (The BCPF)
  • Wilco – Live At The Troubadour L.A. 1996 – The BCPF is a Wilco fan and this is a 2xLP of the band in their heyday, at their peak. I like Wilco pretty well. It’s not my favorite but it is cool. (The BCPF)
  • The Sundays – Reading, Writing And Arithmetic – The absolute top priority for The BCPF, this completes the Sundays trilogy. It’s a reissue but she had them all on CD when she was younger. I’m glad she got it. (The BCPF)
  • Jeff Buckley – Live At Sin-é – The Sin-é Coffeehouse in Manhattan’s East Village was a jumping in point for a good amount of well-known musicians, including Mr. Buckley. This 4xLP is the complete version of his 4-song EP that was released in 1993. The “Legacy” collection (4xLP) was released in 2003 but only on CD. I could be wrong but I believe this is its first time released on vinyl. (The BCPF)
  • Madonna – The First Album – Picture disc of Madge’s first album with “Borderline,” “Holiday” and “Lucky Star.” It was surprisingly inexpensive. It will be fun listening to it. (The BCPF)
  • Neil Young – Roxy Tonight’s The Night Live – A live concert from Neil Young recorded in 1973, although the official release isn’t until next Saturday. Yay us for getting an early copy. It’s 2xLP but only three sides. The fourth side is etched. (The BCPF)
  • Pink Floyd – The Piper At The Gates Of Dawn – The mono version of the debut Pink Floyd album. I wasn’t going to get it but then I figured, I can’t not get it. I won’t get this chance again unless I am ready to pay 20% markup on them. I’ll admit this isn’t a favorite of mine but it is needed for the RS List (#347) but it’s a limited edition. (Scorp)
  • David Bowie – Welcome To The Blackout (Live London ’78) – As the title suggests, it’s live from 1978. Bowie wasn’t ever “not good” and I loved the late 70s/early 80s stuff. This is a 3xLP set, too. (Scorp)
  • David Bowie – Bowie Now – Compilation rerelease on white vinyl. (The BCPF)
  • Lou Reed – Animal Serenade – A 3xLP live album recorded in Los Angeles at the Wiltern Theatre in 2003 after The Raven. The show features a drummer-less band (including Mike Rathke on guitar/synth, bassist, vocalist Fernando Saunders, and the cello of Jane Scarpantoni). Reed delivers dramatic readings of some of his most compelling work. In addition, Anohni, of Antony and the Johnsons fame, contributes background vocals throughout and sings the lead on “Set The Twilight Reeling” and “Candy Says.” (The BCPF)
  • Duran Duran – Thanksgiving Live – The Ultra Chrome, Latex And Steel Tour – A 2xLP of Duran Duran on tour in 1997. (Scorp)
  • Duran Duran – Budokan – A brief live performance from Duran Duran in Japan. There are only nine songs, but they sound fantastic. Simon’s voice is on point and you can really hear everything coming through. (Scorp)
  • Dylan & The Dead – Dylan & The Dead – Just what it sounds like it would be. You can guess who picked this one up but I’ll give you a hint, it was not me. (The BCPF)
  • The Rolling Stones – Their Satanic Majesties Request – I’m very surprised this wasn’t on the RS List. A cool lenticular cover and gatefold packaging. I like KISS’ version of “2000 Man” better, but this isn’t bad. It’s on blue-splattered vinyl. (The BCPF)
  • Human League – Secrets – Vinyl debut and reissue of their 2001 album. (Scorp)
  • Sufjan Stevens – Mystery Of Love – 10″ transparent vinyl of Sufjan Stevens single from the soundtrack of Call Me By Your Name. (The BCPF)

So, by my count, that’s 13 for The BCPF and 7 for Scorp. Not a contest at all and it just is what it is. We both got what we wanted and that’s cool. The only thing I missed was the reissue of the Whitesnake ’87 album which I’ll find somewhere later. It was just a good haul. If I haven’t already told you how much we paid, privately, you’ll have to just guess. No reason to broadcast that, but I will say it was over $70.

Jonathan was swamped but in a great mood when we left, I hope it stayed that way and I hope he made all his money back and more. I believe he’s open today for a rare Sunday opening. That may have changed but may not have. Check the Underdog Records social media channels.

Surprisingly, Discogs had all of them in by the time I got to them, however, some were just the European versions (which should be about the same), so I’ll go looking for the US versions to make the collection listing more accurate. That’s it, I’m still tired and I’m out!

Until tomorrow, same blog channel…
Scorp is worn out!

—
“Whenever I’m alone with you, you make me feel like I am home again. Whenever I’m alone with you, you make me feel like I am whole again. Whenever I’m alone with you, you make me feel like I am young again. Whenever I’m alone with you, you make me feel like I am fun again.” – “Lovesong” (Smith/Gallup/Thompson/O’Donnell/Williams/Tolhurst)

A Unique Piggyback or: Sixth Second On

18 Wednesday Apr 2018

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Salutations™!!

Note: I liked what I wrote about this day last year so I just copied it and reposted. It’s hard to write this story without repeating myself so, why fight it? I want to bring attention to the fact that I’m still here to annoy you, Dear Reader. I am happy to be able to say that (that I’m still here).

It was five six years ago today that I received my “zipper.” Being at the hospital before the sun came up, getting shaved from neck to (literally) toe, seeing my family, having my (then) fiance – The BCPF – standing holding my hand and trying to keep a happy face, having my parents pray over me as I get wheeled through some ominous doors, being moved onto a mostly comfortable operating table and telling stupid jokes to the operating staff before I just blacked out counting back from 100. That’s how I remember it.

I groggily stirred with a breathing tube snaked through my gullet whilst hearing a nurse, whose name I believe was Sandy, talk to me and me nodding that I understood whatever it was she was saying to me. The BCPF came in to see me, touching me, stroking my hair (I still had a little bit). I’m not sure of the timeline, I was still very doped up on morphine at the time. Maybe some time passed, maybe it didn’t, but Ma Mère came into the recovery room and in a moment we will all talk about until we’re no longer here, she patted me on the left shoulder and said, “see, you really do have a heart.” At this point I pointed to “Sandy” and made a motion to bring me a writing utensil and something to write upon. In my continued, and glorious haze, I scribbled to my mother the following:

Leave the comedy to me!

I remember everyone laughing. My job was done, I went through another phase of “blacked out.” They had collapsed my lungs in order to get to my arteries and heart and whatever else they were doing with me and, as a lifelong asthmatic, my lungs and me have a long history of arguing. They weren’t wanting to cooperate and inflate so I could breathe on my own. So, recovery took a little longer than it should have. Then they wheeled me up to my own private room. I had to get up and sit in a chair. I asked for my phone and that’s when this selfie was taken:

Tim After Surgery

My son came in to see me, as did my family. I had put them all through a lot. They were tired, nervous, but happy that I was sitting there making stupid faces at them, I was alive. I had survived. Hand me my heart-shaped pillow and let me cough. There was no laying down for a while, that’s for sure. When I sat back, I could feel my chest shifting. After all, they did saw me in half. I didn’t lay down for about four weeks, actually. But, over time my strength came back and I was able to maneuver around like a real person.

On the way to that, though, I had people watching over me like a hawk. The BCPF made sure that someone was “on duty” with me the whole time, from my sister to my mother, her to her mother. Someone was always here. It got to where I had to fake needing to go to the bathroom just to go sit on the toilet lid and be by myself for a few minutes. I had some great friends bring me and my chaperones food. I can’t tell Chris and Ashley, Doug and Molly and Jerry and Jennifer how much I appreciate them doing that.

After this, though, The BCPF and I decided that we’re going to live. LIVE! And, that’s what we’ve done. We’ve been to Europe twice, the second a wedding/honeymoon expedition. We accompanied friends to Costa Rica. We went to Walt Disney World with my family. We have time with each other. We enjoy just about everything we do. We collect records, we eat really delicious food, we hang out with really terrific friends, we just love our lives.

I have to really thank The BCPF for everything, because if it
weren’t for her, making sure I take my meds regularly, eating right, doing what little exercise I’ll do, going to my doc appts, and just living the heck out of IMAG0150me, I wouldn’t be here today to write this. She didn’t sleep much that first week. When she did it was in my hospital bed. My boy is also a huge part of my life. He’s almost 15 16 so he’s testing my ticker a good bit, but I love that boy to no end. They together are truly my everything. To my family, thank you all for your support and being here for me. To my friends, you’re all my bedrocks. You’re the foundation that I build on. To The Beer Dads, Jon and Paul, thank you guys for traversing this weird ride with The BCPF and me in our quest for World Domination. To everyone. I love you. Just… I love you. To Dr. Bret Borchelt. Thank you for “fixing” me.

I was 41 when this happened. I’m 46 47 now. I have to at least make it to 82 for me to be satisfied with it. I have to say, in all sincerity, I would never want to go through this again. However, in the grand scheme of things, it was all worth it and really, for me, wasn’t all that terrible. I think my family and friends had it worse than I in this ordeal. I got taken care of, waited on and yes had to endure some pain, but it wasn’t too awful. I’m just glad we have hit the “magic number” (no not three in this case) of five six. That’s when the docs stop looking so closely at the procedure. I’m still here and other than being ridiculously fat, I feel great. So, all is well on this side of the world. I hope all of you have as wonderful a time as I do. Happy fifth sixth second birthday to me.

I talked to The BCPF this morning (2018) and inquired about her writing a post one year to recount the experience from her perspective. She said that would take time and she doesn’t have time right now, but one day. I may get her to do it and save it for when I need it. You can hear me talk more about it on The Less Desirables tonight.

Until tomorrow, still kickin’…
Scorp out!

—
“Open-heart surgery is now part of a typical life experience for many people. Folks talk casually about ‘having a stent put in,’ as if they had their tires rotated.” – Roger Ebert

Retro Thinkin’ or: Wayback Machine Again

13 Friday Apr 2018

Posted by in Life as We Know It

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Salutations™!!

Tonight, I used a reference to an advert from my teen years. The reason I used the reference is irrelevant but the reference was to Polaner’s All Fruit and it’s “please pass the jelly” ads.

So that got me to thinking of other ads from the 80s and 90s, heck even the 70s since I was watching a good bit of television at that point, too.

Of course, there were plenty of cereal commercials, toy commercials, and especially the Star Wars action figures and playsets. There were also commercials for Bubble Tape, beer (which I wasn’t necessarily old enough to imbibe with for most) like the “Less Filling/Tastes Great” and Bob Uecker Lite Beer from Miller commercials. Not Miller Lite which has pretty much taken over the beer but the original name of “Lite Beer from Miller.”

There were a lot of beer commercials, even before the wave of Spuds McKenzie, frogs,  and “The World’s Most Interesting Man” ads. I think the Clydesdales have been around in commercials for a while. Miller High Life has brought back their cool jingle: “If you’ve got the time we’ve got the beer, Miller beer.” But, let’s not forget, “Head for the mountains with Busch… beer.” Or, “Old Milwaukee tastes as good as its name.”

Ads were cooler back then. Not that I think badly of the adverts or marketing companies today, at least mostly, but that they’re lazy or just running out of ideas compared to the 60s, 70s, 80s or 90s.

So, I ask you, Dear Reader, what are some of the best commercials, ads, jingles from your childhood or younger days (no need to go all the way back there). How about today? Are there ads these days that you’re particularly fond of?

I think my favorite advert currently is the “Ginger Man” character from Canada Dry Ginger Ale with Lemonade. It could help that I know the actor who plays him (or should I say that The BCPF is school chums with him) and he still comes and participates in their get-togethers. He’s a cool dude all around.

I look forward to your responses.

Until tomorrow, same blog channel…
Scorp out!

—
“Are you ready to taste, Nirvana?” – Ginger Man

Love of My Life or: Happy Solar…

12 Monday Mar 2018

Posted by in Life as We Know It

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Salutations™!!

Today is the birthday of one of my two favorite people in the world. She is the reason I’m alive. Not the reason I was born. That was Ma Mère. She is the reason I’m still here. She is my life. 27858508_10213835617759118_6002026166368483616_n

The BCPF was born on this day, a few years back. She’s still young. I could go into a 1000 word rant about what she means to me. But, I say that every year. All I know is that every year, every month, every week, every day… I love her more and more.

She takes care of me. She makes sure I’m eating right. She makes sure I’m taking my pills. She makes sure I’m using my CPAP when I’m sleeping. She nursed me back to health after my heart surgery (yes, we had a team but she was the leader of that team). Therefore, she is the reason I’m still here.

She is my biggest supporter in life, in business, in my performances, in raising my son. She takes care of her mother and anyone who needs her. She goes above and beyond for every single thing in my life. I know this is post has a lot of “me” in it. But, truthfully, I am nothing without her.

Are we the most disgustingly cute couple out there? Yep. Do we make people sick from our PDA? Yep. Do we care? Nope. I will shout it from the top of the Winston Tower with a megaphone if I needed to. I love this woman.

She has to work today. We will go out tonight for sushi with a couple of pals. We will work up a bigger deal a little later. Timing with her new job, the VSS show and the green holiday coming up, we want it to be when people can come and celebrate her like I do every day. She always makes sure that I have the shindig of the year and it’s her turn.

But, until we can have that special deal with her, FOR her, I want her to know that she means everything to me and I hope her birthday is unforgettable. I love you, Stephanie!

Until tomorrow, it’s all about her…
Scorp out!

—
“Love is when the other person’s happiness is more important than your own.” – H. Jackson Brown, Jr.

Silent Sunday or: The Haul 3/10/18

11 Sunday Mar 2018

Posted by in Records, Silent Sunday

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Salutations™!!

Yesterday morning was a little odd because 1) we were recovering from the awesome VSS/Queen show the night before and 2) we had to be at home until later to have some things picked up from our house. We eventually got to Mary’s Gourmet Diner (with 3B with us) and then to Underdog Records.  So, here’s the haul:

  • Cheap Trick – We’re All Alright! – I had to look up this record on Discogs to see if I had it. I didn’t. 2017 release. New.

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    ©Columbia

  • They Might Be Giants – I Like Fun – Brand new TMBG and it includes all the smart and snark that you’d think you need from them. It’s in there! New.
  • MGMT – Oracular Spectacular – #494 on the RS list. It was in VG++ condition, basically played maybe once and then sold. So it was near new. Great album, too.
  • The WaterBoys – Room To Roam – UK pressing, VG condition. I know very little about the band but what I have heard, I’ve enjoyed.
  • Al Green – Let’s Stay Together – 2009 reissue in VG++ condition. Same as the MGMT above, like it’s really not been played more than twice or so.
  • Blue Öyster Cult – Agents Of Fortune – The album with what is probably their most famous song on it, “(Don’t Fear) The Reaper.” It’s in VG+ condition. At Underdog, the albums that have better ratings and are in better condition get put in the protective sleeves and have detailed stickers on those sleeves. In the “notes” section, Jonathan has “more cowbell!!”
  • Roberta Flack – Feel Like Makin’ Love –  I have found that I really enjoy listening to Roberta Flack’s music. This was a great VG+ addition to the collection.
  • Graham Nash – Wild Tales – VG condition. Nash looks like he’s a necromancer or getting ready to conjure the dark lord or something.
  • Gerry Rafferty – Gerry Rafferty – I know of “Baker Street” and “Right Down the Line.” Other than that, I don’t know much about Rafferty. I’ll find out more when I listen. VG+.
  • The Art Of Noise – In Visible Silence – I didn’t have any Art of Noise on any medium so when I found this in the $1 bin, I had to grab it. It’s in VG condition.
  • Moms Mabley – Moms Mabley At The Playboy Club – I have no idea what this is. It was The BCPF’s pickup. It’s pretty beaten up. I’d say “Good” at best.
  • Orchestral Manoeuvres In The Dark – Crush – I love when I get stuff that I knew of but didn’t know it. Does that make sense? I know OMD’s “If You Leave.” I have their latest release. I knew they had more tunes that I had heard. This album has two of those songs. Plus, they have a song entitled “88 Seconds in Greensboro.” I found out that it is talking about the 1979 “Greensboro Massacre” where 5 civil rights activists were shot down by KKK and Nazis right here in Greensboro. It was a $1 bin find and is in really good shape. I’d say VG+.
  • U2 – Wide Awake In America. Rarely do I find U2 albums in the $1 bin. That’s what happened this time. This four-song EP has live recordings from “The Unforgettable Fire” tour. It looks well-used but it plays great. I’ll call it VG.
  • Mott The Hoople – Mott The Hoople – I’ve liked all I’ve heard from this band and this was in the $1 bin. Let’s go with it. There is a bunch of gunk on Side 1 and without getting microscopes and sewing needles, I can’t get it cleaned and I don’t know how it will sound, I’ll just call it G.
  • Michael Jackson – Thriller – This did not come from Underdog, at least not when I got it. I told you last week of the albums that Jerry Chapman, yes, that Jerry Chapman sent me and I had one that was a duplicate? I also said I traded it to Clay for something. This is what I traded for. My sister had this when we were younger and I pretty much procured it for myself. It was tossed around and beaten up pretty bad. I have come across a few copies but none that were in any kind of listenable condition. This is in good shape. Thanks, Clay!

Record Store Day is coming on April 21 and the list is out. Just visit the website and make plans to stand out in the morning in line to grab what you want. The line will be long and the lineup of the releases for that day will be really good. The BCPF has already gone through and made a list. And, then, Discogs, Y’all! Keep track of what you’ve got!

Until tomorrow, same blog channel…
Scorp out!

—
“We don’t make mistakes. We know you. Oh, yes we have known you. Times are changing but not in our street. Once we played there, like the good times. You know it. God, you know it. They’re heading for a shallow grave with a big black cross by a tall white house to a place down south. We won’t forget. To be stabbed in the back by a man they met. In 88 seconds in Greensboro.” – “88 Seconds in Greensboro” (McCluskey/Humphreys)