Wishing every WOOOFy guy a Holly Jolly Holiday season

I really feel extra blessed this year to have met so many wonderful guys who stopped by to read my blog.

I'm hoping that everyone was informed and the subject matter got you to think about issues that face us as gay men everyday.

Our lives are not easy ones. We face discrimination, bigotry and the red voter. We get picked on because of who we are. Well we're not going away, but to the contrary, will continue our battle to win equality with straights.

A lot of us, from the blogs we write, are very pissed off about the inequality of our relationships.
Even if it takes charm and bear hugs on our part, we need to continue to win over public opinion.

I feel that when we can solve our own personal challenges, then we can demonstrate to the world that we are these cool guys, the boys next door, who keep their lawns cut, their houses clean, and contribute, on the local level, to the well being of the neighborhood where we live.
Maybe by starting at the bottom, this grass roots approach, winning converts over to our cause, might, in the long run, be the best path to follow.

Personally, I think we are unstopable. We can continue to channel our energies to make us even better lovers, better tops, better men.

I also know from a reliable source that Daddy Santa is going to be extra generous to all fuzzy guys and their admirers this year. He feels that we've had a rough year, and is going to be extra accomodating to our needs this year. So all of Daddy Santa's helpers, and you know who you are, be ready to assist him in every way you can. Make Christmas morning a very memorable, pleasurable experience for your partner. Giving is always better than receiving.

I'd like to leave you with warm wishings for everything you desire, woofy sex, and above all, big hairy muscle hugs. I love you.

Air Kisses and Hugs NOT!!! The Village Voice Interview with Larry Kramer

You either love Larry Kramer or you despise him. Either way, he is very controversial.

Mr. Kramer sat down with Alisa Solomon of the Village Voice and fired away.

For the entire interview, check out http://www.villagevoice.com/issues/0450/solomon.php

Here are some exerpts summarizing significant parts of that interview.

When asked about the November, 2004 elections and the Human Rights Campaign Fund, Larry replies that he "was appalled when (he) heard the idea dribbling out that we should pull back instead of carrying on or pressing even more". he "neer saw an organization exist so long, raise so much money, and do so little." "Their annual budget is $25 million. . . they get a lot of money from rich people in the heartland." "A good lobbyist is not an ass kisser." "Ther's a great deal of feeling that all they (HRC) do is pay to go to parties in Washington, to be on the circuit, to be seen, as if that amounts to much."

Talking about the gay ballot issues, Larry feels that it was not just gay marriage, but gay issues generally. He strongly supports gay marriage. But that might be the extent of him and HRC agreeing on anything. He blasts HRC's support of this administration's Social Security proposal.

In general, he feels that while so many of us are out of the closet, we're still invisible. "Don't (gay) people know how to speak up?"

There are several questions about ACT-UP the militant group founded by Mr. Kramer in the 1980's to get the US government involved in AIDS research. He feels that one of the great contributions of ACT UP was "articulating demands for universal health coverage." He feels that we , as a movement, should be more proactive. He feels that rich gays, while generous with their money, are safe generous, and "it's time not to play everything so safe."

Larry raises some pertinent issues. HRC is cleaning house and needs new blood to get our message across. But in my opinion, nothing is instant. We need to find openings and take measures that build upon what achievements we've already won. And that takes time. To speed all this up, perhaps some coordination and channeling of resources into a unified message, that appeals to mainstream America about fairness, would achieve success. Where the new HRC is headed, is anyone's guess.

"Naked Boys Singing" banned in Atlanta

Whoa, Scarlet. Them's fighting words.

The Atlanta police have shut down the local production fo "Naked Boys Singing" at the Armory bar for putting on adult entertainment without a license.

Three non-uniformed members of the license and permits unit of the Atlanta Police Department, went to the bar, observed the 8 pm show, in a room adjacent to the bar, and then issued the owner with a citation. The police unit thought it was pornographic.

Again the red states take issue with gay subjects. What was correct in a dozen or more cities where "Naked Men Singing" has played, isn't so for Atlanta.

The Atlanta mayor has also come under fire for the closure. So even in large urban areas like Atlanta, gay men are being subject to abuse. And this kind of thing can only continue.

Having a group of hunky guys with singing voices exposing themselves in a purely sensual way is in no way immoral. Nothing provocative is happening. Everyone is having a great time. So what's the big deal? No minors are seeing it. It is entertainment for adults who like guys singing in the buff. But instead, Atlanta authorities see this as a morality issue.

I guess they rather see the audience engaging in unsafe sex someplace else than being entertained by guys in the flesh. I applaud the owner for intending to defy the order and planning on continuing the production. This is a story in progress. Stay tuned for further developments.

The Gay Male Porn Industry ain't all the glamour you think it is

It's more about fucking and the money shot. Male porn stars aren't paid any royalties. They get this one time lump sum thousand dollar payment, hoping that the DVD somehow leads them to more lucrative pursuits beyond hustling.

Johny Rahm was one such porn star. They aren't making the big bucks. The Chi Chi La Rue's of the industry are making the big bucks and don't want to share. They pay what is the going rate in the business and leave it at that. So guys with more ambition after their career life in front of the cameras, transition to behind the camera.

Johnny was flat broke though he had dozens of titles featured at video stores and online. But he committed suidcide two weeks ago because he was destitute. More than 10 years in the business, he had been recognized as the Gay Video Guide's "Best Supporting Actor Award" in 1993 for his work in "Body Search". But the fame was short lived and didn't put any food on his table.

But that kind of work gets you stereotyped. It is a short term profession. So if you're smart, you try to capitalize on it with weekend gigs. But most aren't.

So the next time you rent some gay porn, take a moment to reflect on the guys who are providing you the pleasure. They aren't as financially secure as you are. They aren't really as lucky in life as you are. Something to think about.

Musings and Mumblings

"I bet you can squeal like a pig" Something a top daddy says when he's play rough.

"I have nipples, Greg, could you milk me?" A come-on line like I've ever heard. But only good for Gregs.

Baking cookies. You see these elves on TV baking cookies, but it ain't like that. I had this urge to bake cookies on Saturday. So I did. These are really good, melt in your mouth sugar cookies loaded with three sticks of butter, sugar, flour and lots of love. You refrigerate the dough several times, then rolling it out, then using cookier dough cutouts, make the shapes. You refrigerate one more time, then bake about 10 minutes, making sure you don't overbake.
Yummy, Yummy. And getting some spatters of cookie dough on a hairy chest and slowing licking and devouring it, it's something very heavenly. An added benefit.

"I'm not bad. I'm just drawn that way." That would be my ideal man. WOOOF.

Decorating the Christmas tree. I had that pleasure this weekend as well. Getting the tree into the house is only half the battle. Putting it into the tree stand, just so, can be challenging. But it is definitely worth the effort. I like to trim lights on the tree first, then decorate it with ornaments. I got several Harley bike ornaments for the tree so naturally, they are placed first.
After another several hundred or so it seems, it's time to top the tree. I especially like that.

Hoping you guys had a great weekend, getting into playful mischief. A start of another work week is upon us. So make it happen. Big hairy muscle hugs to get your engines started. Til then.

Skuttle Butt

Let it rip!!!

1. A belated cheer to David (Wynona) for winning, "He's a Lady". He was the favorite of almost everyone who suffered through this mess of a reality series. I do hope that a gay male porn reality series is in our future.

2. Speaking of porn, the legendary porn star, Peter Berlin, has just completed a documentary detailing his career in the 70's. Being from that era and living to tell all about it is an achievement in itself. Look for it on the gay film festival circuit this spring. This piece courtesy of Butt magazine and Fleshbot.

3. Morrissey has just released a track paying homage to the first openly gay rock star, Jobriath.
He will cover the song, "I Love a Good Fight". This should be interesting as our sulky crooner jump starts his career. Good move, dude.

4. A new film that is now shooting, "Boy Culture" sounds like a flick to see in 2005. It's about romance intwined set in a gay escort service. I wonder how many money shots will end up on the cutting room floor? At least they could show some sex on the cutting room floor.

That's all I have for now, guys. Have a great day. Big hairy muscle hugs to each of you. WOOF.

Joseph Hansen, pioneering Gay mystery author extraordinaire

I was deeply saddened to read the other day that Joseph Hansen had died at the age of 82.

For gay men who like to read fiction, Joseph Hansen set the standards for gay fiction. His character, Dave Brandstetter, was an insurance claims investigator, who was a tough as nails sluth in the Mickey Hammer and Philip Marlowe tradition.

Joseph created the perfect character, who was gay, but it didn't rule his life. Being gay made him a better investigator and a better man. His character, quoting The Times, "was unapologetically gat at a liberation that was really in its infacy in terms of post-Stonewall politics."

I admired Joseph Hansen for not creating a swishy character, but one with a soul and a personal life. He would "dump" on his partner the day's events, and could always fall back on his support during difficult times as he solved a particular case. The dialog was meaningful and robust. He is never annoyed as his partner nags him to retire and give up cigarettes.

He has influenced such gay mystery writers as John Morgan Wilson and Michael Nava. They both picked up on the fact that in Dave Brandstetter, Joseph created a character with a moral backbone who was a professional in the truest sense of the word.

Though the series ended in 1991 with " A Country of Old Men", I have continued to reread his works. The series started with "Fadeout" and "Early Graves" Both "Early Graves" and "A Country of Old Men" dealt with AIDS. Both are moving books and should be read for both their pure who dunnit appeal and as a chronology of AIDS at that time from the viewpoint of a middle aged gay man.

I will miss Joseph Hansen. He was an old, dear friend, though I never had the chance to meet him. I wish him all the best in his new life after death. May his body of work continue to influence new generations of gay men who enjoy reading a good mystery where the hero is an ordinary gay guy like you and me.

Kissing many frogs before you find your Prince Charming

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Anatomy of a Bad Gift Giver and other Yule Tide Treats

You know who they are. You probably were stuck with them for a holiday party gift exchange.

They are the ones who are homemade gift givers or worse yet, re-gifters. Some examples include stupid puzzles, clown art (UGHHH), and the sausage sample pack. They can be more pitiful ones including a toilet bowl brush, a bag of stale candy canes, and a really ugly coffee mug.

Other than having them irradicated from society, I don't know how you can combat them. It is wise just to forget about exchanging gifts period. That way, you don't lead them on or do you feel guilty supporting their habit.

On another note, just returned from a Christmas Tree farm. Cut my first live tree. It was a very pleasant experience. This way you are guaranteed a really fresh tree. If you chose to play lumberman for an hour or two, remember to wear your butchest pair of boots. I like loggers myself. Also wearing warm plaid is ok doing this. And remember once you get the "live" tree home, remember to prepare a solution of 20 mule team borax, white vinegar, liquid bleach, Karo clear syrup, hot water and a can of lemon lime soda for starters. Mix the solution and then add a little liquid Woolite. Remember to make a fresh cut before placing the tree in a large bucket. The tree should still be outdoors on a deck or patio. It will drink this solution and have plenty of liquid before you place the tree indoors in its stand. The tree should remain outdoors in this solution for a minimum of 5 days. That will be ample time for the tree to absorb the sugar and other ingredients. And remember once indoors, to water the tree and add lemon lime soda during the time it is decorated.

Daddy Santa loves a live tree when he cums to bring his special treats to good gay boys, muscle bears and muscle cubs. So be ready to give him a warm greeting and I'm sure he will be greatful for your milk and cookies and reward you in the way only Daddy Santa does best. {GRIN}

Moans and Groans and an occasional Grunt

Moan: The continued saga of Alexander. In the "Need Wood" column, Woody Miller speculates that Alexander the Great was a jackhammering Top who only bottomed for Hephasestion. Continuing the agrument, Woody goes on to write:"No way could Alexander afford to have his "topulinity" questioned." Will have to devote an entire blog entry in the future ot "Topulinity".

Groan: Porn star Mark Dalton is behind bars. Seems that poor Mark has been keeping company with 40 other inmates in the Denton County Texas Law Enforcement Center since November 4. He had his probation revoked for a 2001 convictin for possession of a controled substance. Mark faces a 5 year prison sentence. His ass will have plenty of rides to give in order to keep that pretty face of his intact.

Moan: Reichen continues to steam up the gay press. He's featured on the hot cover of the 10percent.com 2004 holiday cover. WOOOF. Too bad he shaves his chest. He does know how to growl a lot, from what I've seen in the catalog shots.

Groan: Dishing straight wedding cuisine. Seems that caterer waiters are dishing the wedding reception food. Yea, who really likes sugary 4 tier wedding cake that is usually stale. Ugh.

Grunt: Why are bearmen continued to be misunderstood? We come in various shapes and sizes. It REALLY is a state of mind. And this hangup about fat. Sure some bearmen are burly but there are others who are musclebears and musclecubs. GROOWL.

Super sized Groan: A posting has been spreading about gay men intentially getting infected with HIV because only then, they rationalize, that they can get adequate clinical care because HIV as a disability is accepted in the medical and insurance community. God, who would ever believe that HIV positive men are perceived to be living "very healthy" These guys do need medical attention if they believe that AIDS is far less depilitating than emotional instability.

I'm through mouthing off for now. Would rather give each of you big musclebear hugs. Til later.

Tit for Tattler

Item 1. . . A belated congratulations to John Johnson, winner of the $100,000 IMG modeling contract on Manhunt. He had what it takes to win. The nude modeling hissy fit he had was pretty bad acting, but added somewhat to the suspense. Rob was runner-up. Didn't think he would win. He's a cutey pie, but would be an awesome musclecub if he put on 20 more pounds of pec muscle and grew a beard. WOOOF. Still pissed that Pablo was eliminated early on. Kevin Peake was jealous of him.

Item2. . . The creater of Queer Eye feels that Bravo ran his show into the ground by pure overexposure. He is hoping to have more control over his next franchise, "Queer Eye for the Straight Girl". QE began going down the tubes when Kyan no longer wanted to do grooming.
Now he wants to do fitness. So Jai is delegated to do something to look busy. Carson just hogs and hams up the show and it is getting tired.

Item3. . . Will be heading to a Christmas tree farm over the weekend to cut a tree for decorating.
That's always fun. Any suggestions on how to trim the tree will be greatly appreciated.

Item4. . .Remember to feed the birds. They are fun to watch around the feeder, especially when there are squirrels around. I built my own feeding station with various levels, plaza, terrace and rooftop. Doing some small part for nature feels good and has its rewards.

Item5. . .Keep up that pec work. Daddy Santa is looking for a few good men to help him during his appointed rounds. So beef it up and join him this year. Fur trimmed leather jocks and tall fur trimmed boots I hear will be the required uniform, along with a red Santa hat. WOOOF

That's all for now, guys. Keep it hot and safe.

Tit for Tattler

Item 1. . . A belated congratulations to Jon Johnson, winner of the $100,000 IMG modeling contract on Manhunt. He had what it takes to win. The nude modeling hissy fit he had was pretty bad acting, but added somewhat to the suspense. Rob was runner-up. Didn't think he would win. He's a cutey pie, but would be an awesome musclecub if he put on 20 more pounds of pec muscle and grew a beard. WOOOF. Still pissed that Pablo was eliminated early on. Kevin Peake was jealous of him.

Item2. . . The creater of Queer Eye feels that Bravo ran his show into the ground by pure overexposure. He is hoping to have more control over his next franchise, "Queer Eye for the Straight Girl". QE began going down the tubes when Kyan no longer wanted to do grooming.
Now he wants to do fitness. So Jai is delegated to do something to look busy. Carson just hogs and hams up the show and it is getting tired.

Item3. . . Will be heading to a Christmas tree farm over the weekend to cut a tree for decorating.
That's always fun. Any suggestions on how to trim the tree will be greatly appreciated.

Item4. . .Remember to feed the birds. They are fun to watch around the feeder, especially when there are squirrels around. I built my own feeding station with various levels, plaza, terrace and rooftop. Doing some small part for nature feels good and has its rewards.

Item5. . .Keep up that pec work. Daddy Santa is looking for a few good men to help during his appointed rounds. So beef it up and join him this year. Fur trimmed leather jocks and tall fur trimmed boots I hear will be the required uniform, along with a red Santa hat. WOOOF

That's all for now, guys. Keep it hot and safe.

Practice What You Preach

Yesterday marked yet another somber observance, World AIDS Day. This is one rememberance I would prefer not to happen.

Some of us have lived through more than a decade of AIDS now. I was a pup in my early 20's and just coming out when newspaper articles and TV reports surfaced about the disease.

If only top guys would follow this simple rule, ANAL SEX = CONDOMS, then I wouldn't still be writing about this today.

Why would a top man want a bottom to be exposed to this? To live a life determined by hourly drug dosages isn't a kind of life I would wish on anyone. If we are to be legally recognized in society, we must take the initiative on ourselves to stop the spread of AIDS.

We must show the world as we as gay men, are not rectless, but responsible members of society.

Why is this so hard to accomplish? Guys have been browbeaten, seduced, influenced by the safe sex message for a decade now. But it hasn't worked. Seeing photos of skeletons and AIDS ugly side effects are now history. There is the cocktail. A guy can look buff and still be HIV +. No one but his medicine cabinet need to know his status. This is dead wrong.

So the next time any of you who read this have unprotected sex, do you really want to be part of the positive tribe? If I could pursuade you that the negative tribe is cooler, sexier, and has a lot of benefits, wouldn't you consider it?

I want to see all of you live to evolve into hot muscledaddies, musclebears and musclecubs. But you got to live to 35 to achieve this. Don't go out in a fucked up blaze of destruction. Live healthy, sexy lives. So one day, we can greet each other in hairy muscle embraces, celebrating our lives, not someoneelse's past life.

Remembering Leroy Aarons: Pioneering Gay Journalist

Mr Aarons was a founder and former president of the National Lesbian and Gay Journalists Association. The group was founded in 1989 in his Piedmont CA living room. It now has 1200 members with 24 chapters in the US, Canada, and Germany.

Leroy was born to Jewish Latvian inmigrant parents and grew up in a working class neighborhood in the Bronx, NY. After graduating from Columbia University with a degree in journalism, he began his career with the New Haven Journal-Courier and by the age of 27, became the city editor.

He covered Robert Kennedy's 1968 campaign for the Washington Post, and was the reporter that informed Bobby of Dr. Martin Luther King's death. He also covered Kennedy's funeral.

He later left the Washington Post and for the next 7 years, took time off to work with minority journalists and spent some time in Isreal and was a freelance writer for Time magazine.

In 1983 he joined the Oakland Tribune and in his tenure as executive editor and senior vice president for news, the paper won a 1989 Pulitzer Prize for its photo coverage of the Loma Prieta earthquake in the San Francisco Bay area.

He left the Tribune in 1991, pursuing various projects including writing a book, "Prayers for Bobby" about a familing coping with the suicide of a gay son.

But the love of his life was the NLGJA. Young gay journalists looked up to him. He gave them "the courage to come out and also a sense of correctedness to one another that was simply moving".

In 2000, he conducted another survey of gay journalists. Now 91.5 percent of gay journalists were open in their workplace. However it also found that the day-to-day lives of gays and lesbians was still covered inadequately. How true.

I'm glad that Leroy lived to see we as gay men fighting for our right to have our relationships legally recognized. We need more Leroy's in the mass media to carry the torch and make gay issues more mainstream. By education and not scare tactics and scream headlines will our relationships be equally and legally accepted.

My Favorite Female Vocalists: Brassy, Sassy Ladies with Golden Pipes

I've always had a fondness for female vocalists. To me, they sing lyrics that I can relate to.

Some of my absolute favorite female vocalists are Linda Ronstadt, Dusty Springfield, Norah Jones, Shelby Lynne, Anne Murray, Joss Stone, Diana Krall, and Aretha Franklin.

You've read my review of Joss Stone's latest CD. She can belt out tunes with the best of them.

Linda is a remarkable songstress. I had the pleasure of seeing her in concert twice in the past year and she can hit notes that most singers only dream about. She's awesome.

Another talented songstress is Anne Murray. I had the priviledge of seeing her perform last evening in Baltimore. I'm still groggy after the long night, but it was well worth it. With her 6 piece band and the Baltimore Symphony, she sang all her hit songs of the 60's and 70's including Snowbird and Daydream Believer. And that was the first half of the concert.

The second half was devoted to Christmas and Holiday music. Her deep lush voice is a Canadian treasure and her voice is as full and rich as ever. She is a very gracious entertainer. Since she now plays various casinos across the country, her stage presence tends to flow towards getting the audience's attention. Her charming delivery of stories, emails from her fans posted to her web site, was especially amusing.

The evening ended with an gold record award for her "Country Croonin" CD. Her label, EMI, arranged for their US representative for their easy listening music division to present her with the award. She was genuinely surprised and very pleased.

These ladies are unique unto themselves. They have given me countless hours of pure listening pleasure. I grew up listening to some of them, and now appreciate them even more.

If you're thinking about gifts for the holidays that give entertainment value, check out these special ladies for their CD's. They make great stocking stuffers. More about stuffing pleasures in future blogs. Have a great day and big bear hugs, always.

According to someone: The 100 Greatest This or That Lists

It must be that time of year again.

If you scroll down your TiVO programing title list, there are a bunch of 100 greatest titles being broadcasted.

An interesting one is the 100 greatest movie lines. From 400 lines, 100 will be chosen.

Some of the lines being considered are:

"Don't knock Masturbation. It's sex with someone I love" Annie Hall
That has some truth.

"OK, but I get to be on TOP" BIG
Something you have to say with first time sex.

"You aren't too bright. I like that in a man." Body Heat
A criteria for certain guys.

"Why don't you go outside and jerk yourself a soda? BUGSY
A nice way of showing a guy that you care.

"Carpe diem. Seize the day, boys. Make your live extraordinary" DEAD POETS SOCIETY
My goal for each and every one of you.

This lists goes on and on. Occasionally I'll refer back to it. To get the entire list, log on to http://www.afi.com

BRAVO, not to be outdone, is also into lists. The 100 greatest TV characters was recently revealed. And as always, there were plenty of surprises.

No way, "That Girl" and Ann Marie would be #27. Mick Belker, #56. The injustice goes on and on. I do agree with #1. Check it out yourself at http://www.bravotv.com/The_100_Greatest_TV_Characters/

As a sidenote, Cree got bumped out of the house on "He's a Lady". This show is very lame, but I still watch it.

Hoping you guys had a great Thanksgiving and if you traveled, you arrived back safely to big muscle bear hugs. Have a great day.

Giving Thanks

I'd like to focus attention in this blog on things we as gay men are thankful for.

We're thankful for being as tolerant of each other and of others, whatever the challenges we face.

We're thankful for having love in our hearts to cope with such adversity.

We're thankful that we are more intelligent than the average schmo and schmuck.

We're thankful that we have spirit and fortitude to see the best in people around us.

We're thankful that we can be bitchy at times. We need this "no shit" attitude to send a message that we won't ever be going back into the cave or closet.

For me, personally, I'm thankful for being a part of a community that is all inclusive and proactive.

So guys, don't blow your wad, not that wad, but your credit card on Black Friday. We got to show the Reds that we can also vote with our wallets. Boycot consumerism and hopefully we can send a message that if our relationships won't be legally recognized, then the rest of society shouldn't be able to benefit from our buying and creative power. GROOOOOOOWL.

Have a great Thanksgiving, guys. Big hairy muscle hugs to each of you. And the only sensible way to break the wishbone is to arm wrestle for it.

A Dad's Demeanor. . . A Daddies' Devotion

This time of year for me is one of reflection.

We find nature going through changes, a change from production to rest.

I can remember my own dad guiding me, through what I considered to be a life or death challenge, to make my own decisions. His direction was always considerate of my feelings. However I had to live with my decisions and face whatever consequences evolved.

I look back now at how much he said without ever saying anything. I admired him for that. His advice was never dictorial, never harsh. It was even balanced and remarkably on target.

In our role as top men, we too are in a position of leadership. We are required to make decisions that determine committment, sexual pleasure, and toleration. It is a role that we should not take lightly.

When you've found your life partner, you accept the whole man, the whole committment. It's not half ass, picking and choosing; it's the whole shebang.

The only way I've found to make this work is devotion. Daddies need to provide stability in the relationship. They must gently guide and think about the "we". Self serving motivation is not part of a daddies' demeanor, unless it benefits both men.

We can all learn from our dads as we evolve as daddies. Be the best daddy you can be, and everything else will fall into place.

Hunter gets captured in the "Manhunt" Gaymes

I know guys, this is old info. I seem to be getting behind in my reports about Manhunt. I guess I am losing interest and Kevin Peake is really trying my patience, man boobs and all.

I liked Hunter. Being one of us, I found an attraction. This sort of mixed up kid really exposed himself in the latest installment.

He bumped and grinded with the best of them. His gay strip bar experience was paying off, a little too much so.

So Hunter got eliminated mainly because of his exuberence. Since that taping, I'm sure he's gotten plenty of offers of work. I'm not worried that much about our stud boy. He's a survivor.

I see Playgirl in this future and International Male and Undergear modeling gigs. Unfortunately, we'll be seeing even more of Peake as long as we continue to get IM and Undergear catalogs. Ugh.

On a lighter note, I had the opportunity to travel to the DC Eagle over the weekend and have some fun during the Mr. DC Eagle contest. Manboobs and flexed pecs played a big part in picking the new Mr. DC Eagle. Nice hairy pecs and a great personality should take him far at IML. Congratulations.

You men will always be studs to me. Make everyday great. Big hairy muscle hugs. Love ya.

GAY PIGS UNITE!!!

No, this isn't some screem headline from the National Enquirer.

Ananova.com reports that a Bulgarian farmer has gone to court to demand substantial dmaages after claiming the prize-winning pedigree pig he bought from a breeder is gay.

The farmer told the court "It's a disgrace, all he is interested in are other male pigs." The farmer took incriminating photos of the pig.

Well, fellow gay pigs, be you potbellies or bearded, we have to come to the rescue of our fellow pig.

He shouldn't have to be treated this way. Just because he's an overachiever and likes other males, he should be able to live his life in dignity.

I haven't read his fate. But I hope some gay farm couple adopts him.

This being the season that gay leather/biker clubs raise money for good causes, I urge the clubs to consider financially adopting our guy. Pigs have feelings too.

So let's rally around our fellow pig. Let him know that he is cared for and loved.

Guys, I'm really serious about this. I'm hoping that some enterprising bearman can raise some money to help take care of our brother in his time of need. Think of the commercial possibilities, pig cards, posters, the pig pen's the limit. Let's harness our resources and make this happen.

Barmy Bitching

Yesterday I stumbled across a new work, Barmy.

The experts say if you want to remember a new word to incorporate in your vocabulary, you must use it.

So the word, barmy, which means, "soft in the head, crazy, stupid" will be the word du jour.

I am not a fan of rushing the holiday season. As soon as the pumpkin is cut out and the leaves have fallen, it seems that retailers are pushing the envelope to start the holiday season earlier and earlier each year. This blatent consumerism is hard to tolerate during these struggling economic times. So show constrant, men. Try to limit your list to one or two gifts and don't go overboard. You'll only have yourselves to blame when January roles around and that mountain of bills fills your mailbox.

Another barmy bitch I have is halogen head lamps. These give off a glaring white light which enables the driver to see better. Well, duh, how about the opposing car whose driver is blinded by the white light? He or she, obviously, can't see better. And it seems to be these huge SUV's which are equiped with them. Go figure. They already stand taller over regular vehicles and now they come barreling down the road beaming headlamps and blinding your vision. Another example of "hooray for me, the hell with you" mentality.

I seem to be on a roll. But why stop? What other barmy things would you like to sound off about? Feel free to post your barmys. Get it off that hairy muscle chest of yours. You'll feel better for it.

Kaizen: Streamline Your Life

As we approach the holidays, there seems to be this human desire to acquire everything in site.
We tend to stuff ourselves silly around the holiday table. We need self control.

I've found that Kaizen is the key to self control and life organization.

Its principals are simple. Follow the 5 s's and become a better organized person.

SORT: Eliminate everything not required.
This can mean a number of things. Stuff laying around the house that you no longer need or use.
Recycle these things. Give them new homes.
It can also mean nonmaterial things like hangups and no longer relevant friends and boyfriends.

SET IN ORDER: efficient placement and arrangement.
For instance, in your kitchen, where is the upper dish cabinet located? If it's located above the dishwasher, then it is easier to unload the dishwasher and place these items above. Also the glassware should be conveniently located nearby, next to the sink.
Likewise you can apply this to your leathers and uniforms. Have the complete outfit located together, with the corresponding hat on the shelf directly above the hung uniform or leather.
The boots, of course, should be positioned below the leather/uniform.

SHINE: Tidiness. This is the key to efficiency and maintaining order. Every thing has a place.
Assign it that place. This goes for both animate and inanimate objects. Your favorite CD's and DVD's should be in cubies arranged with their title side facing you. They shouldn't be haphazardly placed on the shelf or slanting.

STANDARDIZE: You have to keep things simple. You don't need six nearly empty bottles of shampoo lying around the shower area. Consolidate and integrate.

SUSTAIN: Always follow the first four. Assess your situation and apply these principals when necessary.

Allow yourself the pleasure of following a system that works. It keeps you orderly and hell, you'll never have to need the Fab Five barging into your home and slicing and dicing your life.

Let me know how this works for you. And if you need any help, I might show up at your door sometime booted and jockstraped with a big smile carrying my tools of the trade for a successful Kaizen makeover, daddy style.

Random Acts of Kindness

While you may have outgrown your Boy Scout uniform, you are still that kind, thoughtful boy at heart.

So to make the world around you just a little nicer, consider these gestures.

A warm fuzzy smile costs you nothing. And what benefits it reaps. Try smiling to strangers while walking on a busy sidewalk or riding the bus or subway. Hell, if some stud catches your eye, isn't he worth a big shining grin?

How about a warm bear hug greeting next time you see an acquaintance? Be spontaneous. Hugs can be customed fitted for the recipient and occasion. They send the right message and never grow old.

Don't air kiss. It isn't becoming. This is a silly queen gesture that I wish would go away of the tiara. You're a man. Air kissing is for sissies.

A combination hug and hand shake is appropriate with someone you may not know intimately, but do want to know better. Always complete the gesture, never do it half ass. One arm must grip firmly around the receivers waist or shoulders while the other hand is extended.

ELLEN has chronicled these forms of greetings on her show. It can be hilarious getting the right greeting to work. Don't aim too high; you don't want to knock someone's eye out.

If you must kiss, do a half European. Kiss on the cheek, but peck with contact. Don't slobber, but make it count.

If you really want to go out on a limb, pick up your neighbor's mail or papers as you are heading up to your condo or apartment. If you are home and your neighbor is not and the UPS/FEDEX hunk is delivering, please be gracious and accept the package. This is an especially kind gesture this time of year when so many people have ordered holiday gifts over the Internet.

You not only are doing something meaningful, but just knowing that you have helped someone, will give you a warm feeling inside. It are these small gestures which could lead to something more meaningful. Small things have a way of producing unexpected and pleasant rewards.
Go for it. Niceness is catchy. So make an effort to spread your love today and everyday, and make your Mom and 1st grade teacher proud.

We Are Who We Love

We, as gay men, have been fortunate to have talented gay writers who have been writing about our lives, our sexual identity, and our lust for over thirty years.

Writers such as John Rechy and Edmund White have been writing since Stonewall. They have been chronicling our sexual behavior in sizzling and emotional fiction. Through their eyes, their words bind gay men together.

I've recently been reintroduced to Edmund White through his latest work, "Arts and Letters"
This collection of essays reads like a who's who of gay lives. Men like Michel Foucault, Knut Hamsun, Jame Merrill, James Baldwin and current celebraties, Sir Elton John and David Geffen.

For bearmen who are not familiar with these gay icons, the collection is worth the time to read.
These men have experienced sexual and physical desire in its most painful forms. They write about the fear of rejection. That emotional roller coaster alone could take millions of blogs to explore thoroughly.

They also write about the tragicomedy of courtship. I feel that after being sure of yourself and mature within your own skin, courtship is the most important obstacle gay men face. It takes an outreach, a pimping, so to speak, to get over this ritual. If anything I hope to accomplish in these writings, I would like to expose the hurdles and pitfalls of courtship. I promise more in future blogs on this topic.

We are fortunate to have our same sexual desires. As these men write, gay sex is a wonderful, emotional event. But it doesn't come guilt free and it evolves by trial and error. It has enormous consequences. But it has almost infinite rewards.

You, my hunky reader, are living a great life. You have the ability to make love and sexual desire a reality. You will become a whole man both emotionally and sexually, once you learn how to love. Finding true, committed love takes courage, compassion and determination.
You don't need to go it alone. I can help sort out the roadblocks and make your experience less painful and more pleasurable. We can do this together.

Obsessive Possessive

Guys like to acquire things. Some guys have a wardrobe full of shoes, boots, and leather.
Other guys collect watches, sunglasses, friendship pins.
Other guys collect conquests. They never get enough of sex and men.

Collecting is both good and bad. You got to know when you've collected your limit.

Having stuff never proved to make a guy happy. It's quality and not necessarily quantity.

So your toybox is full of fun stuff. You have the latest computer games like Halo. You got yet again some 3rd row tickets for another Cher farewell concert. You got the latest IM knit or Undergear brief. Is all this acquisition making you any happier?

We approach another self indulging season, the Holidays.

After this past election, we shouldn't drown in our sorrow by acquiring even more stuff.

Cherish what you have. We aren't on this Earth forever. Make the most of small things. Value life, love, and good health. Make the world better, one day at a time.

Not only material goods can make you feel good, if only temporarily. Be good to your self by being a better person to others. You are a stud. Let others know what it's like to be with a stud.

It's not about how large your toy box is. It's all about you use the toys you have. Use them wisely and you will enjoy life as it's meant to be. Love conquers all. So make love, not trips to the mall. Be happy and prosper.

My, What a Big Leaf Blower You Have

Ah, the sounds of autumn. Cul-de-sacs and neighborhoods in deciduous tree zones are abuzz with the sucking sounds of leaf blowers.

These essential multi-tasked instruments are loved by both straight men and gay men alike.
Who can resist pivoting these long powerful tools against the hip and being able to rein in thousands of leaves, controlling their destiny into seas of large plastic lawn refuse bags.

One feels this rush as you master these leaves into submission. The roaring sound itself is quite macho. Guys seem to compare leaf blowers. Their girth and length is measured a lot like dick size. And these virtuoso members can be expanded or contracted as the need arises. How delightful.

Who says size and power doesn't matter. In the world of leaf blowers, the bigger the engine, the more the thrust. Gas powered blowers seem to be the preferred choice. They can go anywhere and make the loudest noise.

So if you are having a lousy day and lying around your yard are a few thousand defenseless leaves, try exerting some control, bring out your leaf blower and rev it up. You get your jollys, your partner gets a leaf free yard, and you'll be able to continue your prowlness in the bedroom later. Just don't try to emulate that buzzing sound. You might not be able to measure up.

Odds N' Ends

. . . Last week's "He's a Lady" was cool because Dan aka Giselle got booted off by the judges. Yeah. I couldn't stand that back stabbing lying bitch.

. . .Last week's "Manhunt" was particularly cruel. Pablo among 4 others got booted off. He was the hottest remaining guy, but old Kevin Peake is jealous of him. Now there are 4 left. Boohoo.

. . .There really is half a loaf of bread. A baker in the Midwest is selling a half a loaf of bread. While it costs more per ounce than a 22 ounce loaf, it is really the right size for today's bread consumers. How many times do you find yourself with four or five stale slices remaining in the loaf, and throwing it out for the birds?

. . .Have you noticed how many flu medicine commercials have hit the airwaves in the last week replacing the political ads? I think that the flu vaccine shortage was a conspiracy by the drug manufacturers to hawk their products.

. . .Being sweeps month, there seems to be a more than usual amount of barechested beefcake being displayed on the airwaves. Did you catch the two part, Crossing Jordan/Las Vegas shows on Sunday and Monday? Viewers got a treat seeing Jerry O'Connell's bare chest several times as well as that hunky Josh Duhamel. How about those two stun gun scenes. I realize that some of you already have had that experience during playtime. Sweeps can be both informative and arousing.

. . . Finally, guys, remember to sterilize that turkey baster you've been keeping in your toy chest. Thanksgiving is coming and you may need it to baste your turkey. Guys, what you do after eating Thanksgiving dinner is your own business.

Going it alone: Self prescribed release therapy, 24/7

Masturbation has always been a form of sex that I could always do on my own terms.
It doesn't require much prepping and it has the convenience of being on demand.

Each guy has his own way of jacking off. For me, it's plain and simple. No lubes, except for an occasional squirt of Citre Shine when I want to smell like I'm jacking off in an orange grove, no other props, just my hand and my cock.

Nipple attention is a fundamental part of stimulation. I found my nipples responsive early on.
They are really connected to my cock, a lot like spark plugs to an engine. The light brushing gets my cock stirring and at attention in seconds. What a rush. WOOOF.

Other guys I know have their own techniques. Whether it's toys, boots, instruments, dildos, etc. whatever you bring to the "party" depends on your mood. Cock rings, for some, are required accessories in the process. You have to experiment to know what feels right at that moment.
Sometimes you don't have much time to prep. Your cock really does have a mind of its own.

Guys are attached to their cocks. Some give them names. Mine was given the name, SuperSquirt, by an ex. Others have names such as Ramrod, Spurt, Soaker,LongDong, Old Faithful etc. Give him a name. He deserves recognition for being there when you need him.

Position is another fundamental part of mastrubation. Some guys love doing it squatting. Others find doing it lying back brings them to the quickest climax. Others, like myself, love doing it sitting on a bench or upright on a folding chair. Still others swear by positioning their La-z-boys in a comfortable position. Whatever works for you, go for it.

You can jack off almost everywhere. Outdoors is a cool place. The pool and hot tube also are stimulating settings to do the deed. The overwhelming water theme choice is one's own shower.
Guys today can have the feel of an outside waterfall or Amazon rainforest right in their own personal showers. I built a custom shower with optional rain forest ceiling shower head along with two shower heads one on each end. Others like sprays and jets strategically placed on various parts of the shower walls. If you got the time and money, think about upgrading your shower into something personal and refreshing. Having one shower head positioned at your cock while the other is teasing your butt crack can provide refreshing release. You're feel exhausted after the climax, but your body will be cleansed both inside and out.

I've purposely left technique to last. Again it all depends on the individual and particular mood at the moment. Some guys love to stroke their cock long and stretch the head. Others prefer to cup the balls with one hand and stroke with the other. Some like short quick strokes. Some like a combination of all of the above. Of course, if you use lubes, you know that only waterbased, water soluable kinds are the best. Some guys swear by J&J baby oil gel, others, KY, others the varieties sold online or available at circuit parties. Whatever makes you feel really good, go for it.

By taking matters in hand, you are performing the oldest form of self expression. It's personalized and it feels good.

Guys, if you have other tips to share, please comment. Your suggestions might prove helpful to other studs and who knows, you may make a j/o buddy for life.

Cher Chugs Along

Like the Energizer bunny, Cher's Farewell Tour, now dubbed, the "Never Can Say Goodbye" tour marches on.

The tour began in June 2002 and will now extend into 2005. It is planned to end in Brisbane, Australia in March, 2005, a few months before Cher turns 59 years old.

The tour has stopped almost everywhere in the US that has a 10,000 plus size area. Red country, blue country, it doesn't matter. Cher appeals to all.

The tour will be returning to some cities for the third time, thanks to the NHL lockout. Her tour has become a finanical blessing for those arena operators who have to fill prime weekend dates.

Her appeal as an ageless diva lends hope to all of us. She brings her "I can do anything" attitude to the masses. Her message is universal, good songs and showmanship. She is what Liberace had always hoped to be, a real diva, but with more flair, more glitz, and no pretending.

Perhaps, her formula should be used to win over the masses to gay marriage. By example, Cher epitomizes gay society. She has a lesbian daughter; she cares about how she looks; she loves drama: and she looks stunning in white as well as black leather. So maybe we should be more like Cher.

Before I get too carried away, another living legend, Linda Ronstadt finally releases her new CD, "Hummin to Myself" this Tuesday. To Linda's fans, this could not have come at a better time.
While Cher is more low keyed (Cher and low keyed, in one sentence, Ugh!!!) in her politics, Linda has been known never to be shy about being a liberal Democrat. And this, if you have been reading over the summer, has gotten her into some delicate situations. Maybe a combined Linda and Cher tour could be the catalyst for getting out the gay marriage vote. Desparate times deserve taking desparate measures.

So remember to buy Linda's latest CD and enjoy this vocalist at her very best.

Let me leave you with big hairy muscle hugs to start the new work week. You look marvelous.
WOOF.

Nifty Fiftieth

No guys, it isn't my birthday. I'm not 50 yet.

But I'm celebrating a milepost in personal blog history. This is my fiftieth blog.

I feel liberated and satisfied that I have achieved this accomplishment.

Looking back, I would admit that it is somewhat harder than I thought it would be.
Doing this, meeting a self imposed deadline, picking a topic, all of these actions have shown me that I have what it takes to write something constructive, meaningful and hopefully helpful to the reader.

I have shared what I thought are important issues in male relationships. I will continue that theme, sprinkling along the way, some humor, some pain and hopefully some gain.

I feel that I must celebrate the critical importance of the top man in the relationship. It rests on his shoulders and with his cock to provide the emotional stability, maturity and excitement of this ride through life.

Hop on my Harley and I'll take you down that road. We'll continue to explore what makes gay male relationships work and not work. We'll also celebrate the hairy beast in all of us. Musclebears, musclecubs, bearmen, daddies will continue to be featured.

Feel free to comment. I would like to hear your own personal experiences, be it as a top man or a bottom bear. Mor importantly, what do you find exciting about your role and what do you find challenging?

Together we can learn how to get it right from the start. Younger daddies and cubs don't have to reinvent the wheel. That's why the Gay God invented the buddy blog. He wants us to open up, learn from each other, be supportive of each other and love each other as true bear brothers.

We, as gay men, have been let down this past week by hatred, bigotry and lies. But we will continue the fight. We have the power, the financial resources and the time to win our fair share of the rights married couples have under the American legal system. How we chose to use that power and get the message out will decide our fate.

Our gentleness as gaymen and especially, bearmen may be the silent force that wins the other side over. Bitchiness can get our cause noticed, but it can also be destructful. So let's get off our butts, unite and get our relationships, our lives recognized. We can't let someone else dictate our future. We owe it to ourselves and to the gaymen who are yet to discover their sexuality.
We will make this happen, together, provided we get our own house in order, first.

Logical Persuasion or How to effectively get the Wool pulled over your eyes

Seems like most voters on Tuesday had this done to them.

They voted to keep the status quo, without really knowing what they were voting for.

So the Shrub camp succeeded where as the Kerry campaign fell a little short.

I can't blame the Kerry/Edwards campaign. They sounded the right themes and tried to steer the electorate to consider change and new leadership.

Voters were hoodwinked. I don't have a better term to describe it.

They want to follow a course of action against terrorism which spends money without limitations.

They can't seem to recognize or want to recognize the broader picture. A strong America includes everyone.

So they were bamboozled and all of us will pay for their actions.

They feel for the line: Keep the status quo and everything will be ok.

But it will not be ok. Inflation and a sputtering economy will continue. Terrorist threats will continue. The war in Iraq will continue. Sounds like more of a bad thing to me.

We, as a country, by keeping the bums in office, will be reaping what we sow, discontentent and misdirection.

We have 3 years and 363 days to correct the situation. Next time, things will be different, I promise.

The Crying Game: When foul play determines the final outcome.

You know you've been had. You can see through the lies and it hurts. You feel cheated and used.

When these things happen in a relationship, it is time to make the break.

Breaking up is hard to do, but if the relationship isn't working, you have to make that clean break.

You feel defenseless, but in reality, you are empowered. It's your call and you have to make it.

Never feel forced into something you don't like. Don't let anyone guilt you into doing something you aren't comfortable with.

The hurt may never go away, but you will heal and you will survive.

Bitch Sessions: Letting the Fur Fly

BITCH: Guys who whine and never do anything about what they are whining about.

ANTIDOTE: Do something about it. If you know a guy who does this, let him know how you feel. Tell me to quit complaining and take action. Help him to get where he wants to be. Or show him alternatives.

BITCH: Guys who Want something someone else has.

ANTIDOTE: Sometimes you can't always get what you want. Simple as that. Envy is a trait that leads to bad things happening. Guys who visit underage chatrooms looking for young guys are a case in point. They will get caught. So just let it go and focus on someone your type. Youth is wasted on the young. Just don't go there.

BITCH: Drivers racing ahead of you at a traffic light.

ANTIDOTE: Besides wanting to get out of your car and punch his lights out, there's really nothing much you can do about it. You can laugh it off, you can give him the finger, you can try to ignore it.

Enough bitching for today. Live your life to the fullest. Be nice to everyone around you. Spread your hunkiness around and be happy.

Extra Hour in Bed

How did you spend that extra hour in bed this weekend?

I know that some of you bearmen had passionate sex, lovingly providing pleasure to your partner, making the most of the extra time. That's the way I put that extra hour to good use.

Some of you just were lazy ass and just slept that extra hour away.

Others never got that extra hour because they chose to stay up longer anyway and maybe, pursue the man hunt. I hope you guys were successful.

Whatever you did, I hope you made the most of it.

This change symbolizes more than just an extra hour in bed. The change signifies a variation in life activity for the next six months. Our environment around us will be in a different mode. There will less daylight and weather changes. We will be wearing more clothing. Our mood swings will vary. Some of us will be in hibernation mode. We will be less physically active.

Regardless it's time for change. And speaking of that, tomorrow is that first opportunity to make change. We will be voting for change. Change in this case, is a good thing. I urge you to vote for change tomorrow. The current environment for gaymen is not conducive to our quest for change. We want acceptance of our partnerships, we want equality in spousal benefits, we want to be able to live openly and without prejudice or retaliation. Change tomorrow can result in the beginning of change for us as gay bearmen. It's not something we can postpone. We have to act inorder for actions to occur.

Make change happen. And next time, I'll leave you alone to pull those covers over your head. If not, expect me to pounce on you and drag that ass of yours out of bed to face whatever life has to offer. It's your choice.

Our Kindred Spirit is our rallying cry

There seems to be a common thread between these last posts.

Since I've started this blog, I've met many bearmen. We've read each other's blog and commented on each other's blog.

Top bearmen, in particular, I find to be very nurturing, caring, level headed and damn persuasive.

We also are very open with each others and don't have any difficulty sharing our feelings.

I never want any of us to get too down on ourselves. We are here for each other. We have a very involved support group which casts a very wide net.

That's why I started this blog. I'm here for you.

That's why it is so very important, especially in Oregon, Minnesota and Ohio to get out the vote.
We can make a difference this Tuesday. There are ballot questions which approved, can hurt us.

We want what everyone else has. We want to be legally recognized in our relationships. But there are those out there who never want this to happen. So we got to do something about it.

We can demonstrate to others that we care about what happens to us. Make sure you vote on Tuesday.

The Curse of the Bambino has been lifted, giving renewed hope to us all

By now, you may have read or heard that the Boston Red Sox have won the 2004 World Series.
After 86 years, they have won the big one, which eluded them because the Team felt cursed after trading Babe Ruth away to the New York Yankees.

That happened long before anyone of us were around. But that's just the problem with society.
It holds on to stuff passed down generationally. People tend to believe passionately in it, even though it isn't true. The fact of the matter is, the Red Sox finally put together a winning team.

Things like that imbedded in culture are hard to change. We, as musclebears, daddies, muscle cubs, are perceived by some to be out of the mainstream of gay culture. We tend to follow a very different drummer than other gay men. So what? We are a subculture who loves who and what we are. But before we can convince other gay men of that, and society in general, we have to do some self examination.

I feel that there is nothing we can't overcome. We are natural motivators. We tend to think more with our heart, which isn't a bad thing. We may over rationalize situations. But we want to accomplish things. We sometimes can be very stubborn. And sometimes we get down on ourselves, which can be very unproductive.

So should we change? Hell NO. However we should continue to make life better for all gay men.
We know right from wrong. We don't want anyone to be unhappy. In our tender but forthright way, we can make a difference. I feel that other gay men are becoming both intrigued and someone jealous of who we are. We have to continue our growing presence in gay culture.

Personally, I find myself being more driven to this cause. I don't want to see any bearman unhappy. He has to find happiness under his pelt. Bears are very special gay men. So when you're not quite happy with who you are, embrace yourself and get motivated. Learn what gives yourself pleasure, sexually or otherwise. Take time for yourself before you can give yourself to another man.

We are not cursed. We are blessed. So next time you see someone in the bar or in the bookstore a little down, smile in his direction. If you know the guy and he seems not his usual self, give him a warm bear hug. Let's become change agents and let society know how wonderful we are.

Howling at the Harvest/Hunter's Moon

Are you feeling extra horny this week? Blame it on the Harvest/Hunter's Moon.

It plays tricks and treats on us fuzzy guys. We love the excitement of the hunt, and if we have to growl to get our man, so be it.

There will be extra cries of WOOOF, WOOOOF, everywhere. With that extra hour of pleasure this weekend, we will make the most of it.

So guys, beware. We can't control our urges. What will come over us is passionate lovemaking, pursuit and pleasure. You will know our intentions by just looking into our eyes.

Musclebears everywhere, act out those impulses. Get up close and personal. Suck his face and then use the pickup line, "I can't control myself, it's the full moon pulling me to you." And God, if he buys that, then you got a playmate for life.

Dance Floor Attitude-The Leather Circuit

We gay men love to party. And where better a way to get to know other musclebears is the party circuit.

I've been to several over the years. The Black and Blue Leather Ball in Montreal is the premier leather themed circuit party. But there are others which don't necessarily cater to leathermen.

You can find most of them on http://www.partylist.com as well as http://www.thecircuitdog.com

Ones I also enjoy are Mr. Leatherman in Toronto, CA held on Thanksgiving Weekend, Southern Decedance in the Big Easy, and the MidAtlantic Leather Weekend held annually on Dr. Kings Birthday weekend. This is the big feeder for Mr. IML. And IML, on Memorial Day weekend in Chicago, is the granddaddy of leather circuit party weekends. WOOF

These are hot places to meet hot men. But it seems that some guys don't know their places when they get on the dance floor. Be ware of the jealous queens. I hate to see deliberate crowding out on the dance floor. This kind of attitude just sucks big time.

Why do guys bring their attitude to these events? Mainly, if they aren't having a good time, they try to ruin it for other guys. Somehow I wish these guys would check their bad attitude at the front door upon arriving.

The thrill of going to these events is the rush when you finally get up to the doorman and get in.
You feel a rush after all the anticipation.

The ritual we all have is heading for the checkroom, then to the men's room, then to the bar, and then to the dance floor to check out the action. About an hour into it, we're on the dance floor, shirts off, and dancing our hearts out.

So next time you run into a queen who doesn't want to back off and is jabbing your ribs with his far flung elbows, just grab him by the neck and give him one of your "Don't Fuck with Me, Sir" looks. You'll be doing yourself and the rest of the guys who are there to party a very big favor.

Pretty Damn Cool

You know what I think is pretty damn cool: goatees.

Guys who wear goatees make a statement. They define themselves as guys who you'd like to hang around. . . Guys who are cool without having the latest gadgets or the latest anything.

These fuzzy guys can be the silent types, who profess that actions speak louder than words.

They will surprise, almost always for the better.

They are composed, strong, with inner strength and not bull shit attitude.

They don't have to be in your face, because they are cool. Being in your face isn't cool.

You can trust these guys. They become your best friends, lovers, fuck buddies. They are the eternal Bobby Darin. So next time you're out cruising, hit on a goatee guy. You won't be sorry.

Doing Today What You Should Have Done Yesterday

Could of, should of. Words that apply to just about all of us.

Why do we put things off? We procastinate about an HIV test.

NEVER, NEVER postpone anything related to health issues. You are very important to me. I want to reverse the pain and suffering of the last 20 years. So studs, take the test and let your partners know your status. Be a man and make us Daddies proud.

We put off working out or going on a diet. Again, I can't tolerate wimps who say that they love being fat, ugly, and gross. That's such a lame excuse. Get your ass off the chair and hit the floor. Try 6 sit ups and 6 push ups. If you can do that, then I can turn you into a hot guy. All it takes is dedication and the desire. If you don't have that, then don't ever wish again for someone else's hunky body. And guys, if I ever catch you stealing the photo identity of someone who is hunky and sacrifices his daily life for making the world a better gay place for all of us, I'll personally embarrass you until you wish you were a real ugly toad.

So make TODAY the DAY that you will start changing your life. Don't ever proscatinate again. Do what you set out to do and complete the task. Put everything you got into it. Be a better Daddy. It's more that just drilling your cock into someone's asshole. Be a sexy and feeling bottom, not just a asshole spread eagle.

Aim to get better, stronger, sexier, hotter. If you need help, just ask. But don't whine and do nothing. And VOTE on November 2nd. Our lives as we know it depend on defeating the Defense of Marriage Amendment and everyone who supports it.

Those who know me know that I would rather have people just be happy and be left alone. But even I can see an ugly, evil force out there who wants to permanently shut the closet on gay rights and throw away the key. So if everyone does his part, then we can win.

I love you men. You make being a Daddy a pleasure. Just do your part and never put off doing today what you really should have done yesterday.

If you love him let him know

When was the last time you told your man that you loved him?

If you can't remember, then it's time for some soul searching.

Love has to be unconditional. But never, never, take it for granted.

Do you love him or are you in love with him? These are two separate issues.

Being in love is wonderful. You see things in a different perspective. And that may be part of the problem. You find yourself making passionate love, but do you really love him?

There isn't any litmus test for determining degrees of love. Yes, you would do anything for him.
But is there still that burning desire, that tingle, that sparkle?

If you are really in love in him, let him know it. Send him roses, buy him something whimsical. Leave love notes and cards under his leather pillow. And tell him verbally. This never happens enough in gay male relationships. He is your past, present and future. Live through him and with him. Make the most of every moment. Grab him, hold him, lay him on the kitchen island, and make passionate love to him. Be spontaneous. Show your love.

But if you can't or won't do this, maybe you should be questioning your love for him.
If you love him, let him know, but if don't just let him go. Breaking up is hard to do.

Relationships endure because of committment, most often of the financial kind. You jointly own your home, other things. There is entanglement. But if it isn't working, then you need to reevaluate the relationship.

I never want to see relationships break apart. But there has to be fire, passion, excitement.
Show him that you love him each and every day, if you still feel the spark. Rekindle the way it used to be. You're the top man and you have to make this happen.

Never stop expressing your love. If you don't, you will fall out of love and committment.
I want you to live the book of life writing wonderful chapters about great sex, devotion, adventure and love. Keep it real, but never forget to say, "I love you."

Manhunt: The Shakedown

So Kevin Peake is the embedded model. Big shit. I wish one of the guys wipes that shitty grin off his face.

If you get any of the International Male catalogs, his mug is on the last issue, modeling a grey knit boxer. You might not recognize him. It must have been an old photo shoot. He didn't have the set of pecs he has now. But that grin is undenialably his. That's why he mentioned during his "outing" that he had been second runner-up in an IM modeling competition.

Anyway, 4 guys were eliminated, not before some hijinks involving Peake and Tate. More high drama than fucking. Sluts are sluts, whatever sex you are.

Three rooftop photoshots were set up. Most of the guys were set up for the first one.
The "model" du jour was Marisa Miller. I never heard of her, but after all, she won't interest me.

Another set of guys lined up to have Marisa lie in their laps. Big thrill. Anyway Blake and Casey were shown the shaft for their photos did not make the grade according to the judges.

From the first photoshot setup, John Stallings and Brett D were told that they didn't have it.

Really no loss here. Hoping 4 more go home next week as well as someone ramming a hot rod up Peake's ass. He'd probably like that, so never mind.

I hope that the producers stop with the overkill and keep it on the models, and definitely show more skin.

They are trying hard not to make it too gay. But if they do that, they will be alienating both target groups: women and gay men. Maybe "He's a Lady" will feature men more like us.
Will keep you posted.

What is best about the same sex?

Funny you should ask that. Just because we are most familiar with our male bodies, doesn't mean that we know everything there is to know about our male lover, partner, friend, fuck buddy, slave.

I feel that I can find at least one great attribute about another guy. Be it his warm smile, eyes, great bod, sweet cheeks (all four of them), hands, legs, sexy forehead, whatever. But besides the superficial, there are traits that I feel certain guys have. If they are a great listener and can carry a conversation, then that is a great attribute. This might sound biased but I have always found furry faced guys to be better listeners. Also facial hair brings out something about the quality of kissing. It feels much better with a cushion of fuzz.

So we got the same plumbing. That seems what binds us. And maybe for the better. Who can fuck better, kiss better, give a better blow job? Guys know what other guys feel. We should be thankful for that.

So next time you see a guy who you don't know, give him a quick lookover, and decide, what is his best feature. You will find something to like. Whatever beast lies inside, will be something you'll have to explore another time.

Blind Dating: It's not an act of desperation.

We've all gone on blind dates. We think the internet has, somehow, eliminidated the pitfalls of blinddating. To the contrary. We might know what the other guy may look like at some point in time, but it's barely an improvement over the days of personals and being matched up by friends.

Today, it seems that even more is at stake. So how does a guy who wants to hook up with other guys, yeah, for a possible relationship, wade through this mess.

A popular internet hook-up site is manhunt.net. You can definitely get action there and meet local/area guys. Again it relies on the honor system, and that, is something that goes with the territory. Lying before a first date should be clear to everyone is either an accepted norm or the number one reason for dropping this guy before the after dinner coffee gets cold.

The Number One rule for such partner exploration is always to meet at a public, neutral site. If the meeting goes well, then you too can take that next step. But if it doesn't, then you have an excape route.

The lie is so deceitful, that you feel ambushed as you begin to put together the pieces.
I found myself doing the blind date thing when I first moved into a new area. It seems like the right course to take. The bars are fine, but the probability of cruising is limited in scope.
So you can find more guys faster through the net. Never, never, go into this with eyes wide shut. You can get stung.

I can remember several bad blind dates. But the one that sticks out most, is the one that I had where the guy said that he was in his early 40's. I had a photo of him, but I will never figure out, where he got it. This guy had the road map of China printed on his face. This guy was so old that he was beyond his expiration date. Talk about day old buns, make his fossils.

How could anyone be so deceitful? Well, once a liar, always a liar. With so much going on first impressions, gay guys seem like peacocks. Yea, we want cock, but we want it connected to a pleasing package. Again, you am, what you am. Lies have a way of catching up with you. So beaware of the scam artists, and never lower yourself to such depths.

Take these bad blind dates as life experiences. But don't let this shit frustrate you. As I have always said, make the most of a bad situation. But first get your own house in order. Once you got that done, then expand your horizons. That special guy is out there, even if you have to encounter some very ugly toads along the way to finding your prince charming.

Homecoming

You've got tickets to your college homecoming weekend. You're in your twenties and found love. You might not have been out to your college friends. You would like to see them again, but this time, you are a couple. You have reservations about what to do.

You must bring the boyfriend and if you have to explain to the dense, you do so. Other wise you introduce your boyfriend as your partner, and read their faces and listen to their tone of voice. If they were your friends before, they will still be your friends after that.

I like homecoming. I wasn't active on campus and didn't have a circle of friends. But I enjoyed college life. Having gone to college exposed me to who I am. It gave me the intellect to sort things out and feel comfortable as a queer man. So I have to thank the college experience for helping ease the transition.

So look at those tight buns as the quarterback tries to connect with his wide receiver down field. Enhale the excitment of the game and the ceremony, the events, the parties. Hold your partners hhand and be thankful for the moment. It's one of life's many cherish moments. Experience and enjoy.

Biggest Pet Peeve I have is anyone questioning why we are queer

If you watched the debate the other night, one question that caught my attention was why we are queer. This question seems to always surface.
I guess it continues to be debated because for some in society, they would rather have us stay in our emotional closet and never live out our lives.
We are because we are. We weren't kidnaped into a secret cult. We weren't brainwashed. We are born queer and that, sir are the facts.
Would I change my sexual preference? Never, even if it was offered. Because that would change me. I am who I am, and I have made the best out of a great situation.
We are unique in the human kingdom because we have traits of both sexes. We can take better care of ourselves than heteros because we have this 6th sense. We are better prepared for life's challenges. It's when we focus too much on one part of our lives that we become limited and weaker.
I want you today to celebrate your gift. Do something queer that pleases you. Give as many muscle bear hugs as you can. If you are in a relationship, please your partner like it is your last sexual experience on earth. If you are looking for true love, then put forth your absolute best effort and go for it. If you are in the closet, come out and enjoy the experience, but do it on your own terms, not someone elses.
So the next time you hear this question, you may want to answer, "This is who I am, and what fuckin right do you have to judge me." You'll feel better for it.

National Coming Out Day

I started these blogs last month because it helps me to live as a gay man. It helps me to evaluate my life, my experiences, my aspirations.
It isn't easy being gay. But we are gay men. We face shit everyday that doesn't see fair.
Life has been better for us because we are out. But how to do it, and to what extent, is an individual choice. Whatever you decide, make dam sure that you come out to yourself first and foremost. You need to be comfortable inside your skin before you let others in. Once you can accept yourself as gay and be happy with it, the hardest part is behind you.
Once you join the tribe, you make the shots. It is a different world, juggling the straight world with the gay world. Be yourself. You will find acceptance when it is important. Not all will accept you. You have to be able to live with that. Just make sure that you are comfortable being who you are, not what you think others want you to be.
You have choices. Coming out to family, friends, co-workers, it all depends on you and your situation. It is always a tough decision. No two ways of coming out are ever the same.
But coming out is the best decision you will ever make as a gay man. There is a support group.
By reading this blog, you already have found someone who knows what it is like to live openly and proud. If you ever need someone to talk to as a sounding board, please let me know.
A lot of us have had to go through it. Mine was somewhat difficult, but if I had to do it over again, I wouldn't hesitate. I am a happy gay man who wants to share his experiences with other gay men, open or about to come out. It is the right thing to do. Living a lie hurts everyone, especially yourself. You are a great guy. Come out. You've got plenty of company.

Car Ride Home: When Silence isn't Golden

You and your boyfriend have established a bond. You feel that things are going well. You head out in his car for another wonderful date. Everything seems fine. You have a nice dinner and see a movie.
On the ride back, there's silence. Should you read anything into it?
Silent car rides may indicate several things. Both of you may be thinking about your relationship. When to take that next step.
A new relationship has its pitfalls and its growing pains. You are both learning about each other.
You may think things are going well, but there maybe underlying problems you haven't noticed.
Silent car rides home, if they become frequent, may indicate something may change course.
If you love him, even with his faults, then your relationship can survive. But if things below the surface are lurking, this continued silence may be more serious than either one of you may admit.
Will one boot drop? Don't let it happen if you want this to work. Hold his hand. Non verbal gestures can mean a lot. Play both of your favorite music on the ride home, if there is silence.
Or start a conversation. Nothing heavy, mind you, but try to inforce your committment.
But if things aren't working, NEVER, NEVER bring it up to him on the car ride back home.
And if, heaven forbid, you are thinking about severing your relationship, NEVER do it during the car ride back.
There is never a right time to drop the bomb. We all have had to make that decision. It's never easy. You may see that coming, you may not. But there are warning signals. We all look back after the fact, and we can almost always identify that turning moment. Was it the silent car ride home? It all depends. If it's worth saving, invest your energy doing it. If it isn't, make a clean break. We all have to or have had made that decision. But it's just a passage of gay male relationships. You can survive. Life goes on. Make yourself happy. You're a stud and if this guy doesn't appreciate you, another guy will. And the dating cycle continues.

Manhunt: The Sweet Sixteen

The producers of "Manhunt" wasted no time cutting out 14 guys. And what a shame.
Some of these dudes were very hot. But apparently, were judged to not have that look, whatever that is.

Let's go to the videotape. The first shots of the guys lay the ground work for the show. We're shown how the auditions came about, and how the lucky 30 were chosen. They meet their host, Carmen Electra, who is ok, but sometimes really dense. I would rather have had a daddy master, but this isn't my show. How that would have shaken up some of these guys.

So within the first fifteen minutes, 10 guys are gone. You see glimpses of them, and quickly are told their first names. Anyway, the 20 remaining are kinda shocked about what just happened, and the on camera comments begin.

When they regroup, the audience is introduced to each one individually, Kevin Olson, 25, construction worker, Tate Arnett, fitness consultant, ( there are several fitness trainers in the group), Brian Bernie, waiter, Rob Williams, law student, Casey Ward, personal trainer, Matthew Lauter, the "baby" of the group, student; John Stallings, clerk, Ron Brown, the openly gay sales clerk, Seth Whaler and Jason Pruitt, also Jon Josson, an astro physics student (several are selected to try to disprove the stereotype, all brawn, no brains), Micah La Certe, personal trainer, Blake Peyrot, student, Hunter Daniel, lifeguard, Paulo Rodraiguez, who was a size 38, down to size 32 waist, Maurice Townell, salesman, Brett Deprue, ex Mormon minister, ex Chippendale dancer, now Las Vegas real estate agent; Sean Russell, student, Corey Weeks, steak house host, and Keven Peake, club promoter and odds on favorite, who is creating jealousy among some of the contestants.

Of course with these types of shows, the guys are taken to a remote location. Here an airstrip. There they meet Bruce, former model and their so called den dad. Bruce has the makings of a hot daddy, but takes this boot camp stuff a little too over the edge, and he seems like a bad drill instructor in a bad gay porn flick. He needs more acting lessons.

He explains that he will be eliminating four of them and calls out the first four names. All are shocked when the four guys names are called out. Then the first of many twists. He says that these guys will stay along with the rest of the names he calls out. Four will go home.

Like the rest of these shows, the camera's close in as the guys are selected and the remaining guys pace, fret, and sweat. At the end of this so called torture, Brian, Sean, Micah and Casey Ward are eliminated. Micah, who I had picked, is steamed, so are the others.

Then the guys are told to strip down, and Bruce gives them the first over. After some critiquing, they each are given Calvin knit boxers. You next see them walking down the airstrip in their CK's. So it seems natural that the next scene shows them tandem skydiving in their CK boxers. This could be a porn flick, but I digress. After that excitement, they are put through their paces, modeling expressions. Here Bruce is again critiquing them. As a parting gift as they head back to their digs, they each are given their very own modeling bag, complete with CK undershirts, RayBan aviators, Nair for Men and hair products.
The next scene shows them at an Armani Exchange, AX store, where they each select their outfits. This shows Kevin Peake being more of a pain in the ass. Anyway, some of the guys notice his moves. He's there to impress. He wants this really bad.
After getting their clothes, they return to their home base hotel, where they get dressed for some partying. This is pretty lame, along with the 1 am curfew and the staging of the ending scene.

Two females are sneeked into the model's sleeping area. They are in the large bathroom area. Bruce announces curfew and that no women are to be present. They are caught on camera, and the cliffhanger, who are the models in the bathroom with the models. Yet another twist is reavealed. One of the contestants is really a model and a spy. Big woop. So that guy is planted to report back to the judges. This episode ends with cumming attractions. Which guys are getting on with the females? The guys have a rooftop shoot and accusations flare which may jeopardize the rest of the series. Oh my!!! Stay tuned.

Manwich, when you got a hankering for prime beef

So you're done eating, but you're still not satisfied.

What's a growing guy to do. Order in a Manwich.

Manwichs cum with all kinds of condiments and are prepared to order.

It's better than homecooking and so tasty, too.

Take one hot hairy musclebear daddy, booted and some leather accessories, add
one hot hairy bottom musclecub, and place yourself in the middle.

Let the muscle daddy insert his pickle for flavor, and have the musclecub serve up a big helping of hot jizz in your mouth.

Savor the moment and order more to go. Take outs are available upon request.

FlipFlopping: The Big Switch

I'm a member of Tribe, http://www.tribe.net and a few of the recent postings on the WOOF tribe have dealt with role reversal and true tops.

Some guys like to leave their options open. They may identify themselves as 90 percent top or 50 percent active. I'm guessing that these guys like to work both sides of the fence, so to speak.

I guess some guys can be versatile , but are they really good at it. There comes a time when you just got to decide what role you prefer.

While it may depend on the moment, a true top is always active, period. There are no grey areas. For me, if I was passive, upon penetration, I would lose it completely. No hardon, no sex drive.

But when I'm ready to fuck, I'm ready. There's no doubt about it, I'm a top.

But for those guys who like variety, then by all means explore both views. Maybe someone who tops occasionally can really be a great bottom because he knows what's it's like being the dominant.

If it is true that true tops are in short supply, then any bottoms who can rise to the occasions as tops are most welcomed.

Maybe role reversal is not such a bad thing, given the moment. If you can switch your role playing on and off, by all means, continue.

We top daddies are in short supply and the more of us, the better it is for bottoms .

Just keep it safe and hot and your bottom will be cumming back for more and more.

Beef! Pork! Chicken! It's a matter of taste.

So what's on your plate tonight?

You have your preferences. It's hump day and you got the urge to get laid.

But you are graving for something satisfying. Someone who will feed that hunger.

You're very oral. So what makes your mouth water?

You're probably a pork guy. You like your man well hung and carrying that extra something.
Sex for you is sucking and getting fucked. You like "the other white meat" because it is both filling and desirable. There's always a supply, but not always fresh. But beggers can't be choosy.

Other guys crave for chicken. I, for one, could never understand that. Even when I was chicken, I would hate the advances of older guys. Chicken hawks are very discriminate in their tastes, I have observed. This can't be good, and these guys have a fetish that can consume them, leading to paid sex, one night stands, and that craving for guys always younger, way younger, than they are. I'm here not to judge and I'm not getting into the pedofile shit. That's just dam wrong and a part of the gay rainbow that is tainted. But these guys are part of our club,always have, always will.

I, myself, like beef. It's what's for dinner tonight. Firm pecs, nice cheek butts, pumped biceps.
These are turn-ons for me. But I wouldn't starve if I didn't find a particular cut. I like mine sauteed with some nice fur. And never marinated in colonge or cigar smells. I respect guys who require these garnishments. But for me, some beef, tender and juicy, gets me started.

So guys, explore your palet. You might like variety, but then, you have your standbys.
You are what you eat. But do so in moderation and remember to always wear that bib. Juices are meant to be contained. After all, top men, you are filling your partner's inner sanctum, not screwing a beast. We won't get into that here.

Enjoy and bon appetit.

Gentle Ramblings

This blogging thing is really cool. I find myself composing thoughts in my mind for my next blog while I'm working out, showering, and driving. What I think about, depends on the situation.

When I'm showering, I think about sex. I'm soaping up my ass and cock and thinking: "What about writing about types of lubricants or two shower heads or climaxing?"

When I'm working out, various themes come to mind. How about focusing about a specific body part to concentrate on. Guys like to develop their pecs, tone their abs, develop their thighs. Since I am a dedicated weight trainer, I know I can help guys with their workout routines.

When I'm driving, I think about relationships, why they start, why they change, why they dissolve. I'm always driven to the "we" factor. Guys may hook up to have sex, but what gay men want most is stability. That comes with commitment. Having that hunky chest to snuggle up to, making "we" decisions, coupling; well that's something that quite doesn't come naturally. We all know the mechanics of sex, but sometimes never figure out the workings of a relationship.

Sometimes I wish we all came with an owner's manual. Somehow that would make life easier. But it would sure take the fun out of spontaneity, exploring the unknown, and trial and error. We humans are a flawed species. We learn from experience. That's why I'm here, to share my experience.

I blog, therefore I am.

Manhunt: The search begins. A preview

What we've all been waiting for, the new Manhunt on Bravo.
http://www.bravotv.com/Manhunt/The_Models/Micah/

One of the hottest models is Micah. WOOOF. Hot 6 pack. He's 25 and hot.

Another stud is Kevin P. Great set of pex. He's 22 from Ft. Lauderdale and is a club promoter.

Brian also packs a super set of pex.

The sad thing here, however, that all the dudes are shaved. Too bad. Some of them would be so much hotter if they left some fuzz on their pex. Too much Playgirl, not enough gRUFF.

So guys, update your TiVO and set a season pass for Manhunt.

I'll be posting updates as the guys are phased out, and of course, with opinions and comments.

You know, how much better this show would be if a Daddy made the selections, giving each boy a nipple lick or tug, with the unlucky one getting a butt spank. Now, that's what I call a real Manhunt.

Daddies picks the hottest 2005 gay male nude calendars

The selections this year arriving at various gay bookstores and online are interesting, if not leaning on the safe side.

I like muscle bears and Colt continues to satisfy that desire with their Hairy Chest Calendar for 2005. Looking at the back of the calendar, sealed and impregnable, the selection is hot. Do check out Mr. May. WOOF.

Colt's competition for the last ten years plus has been 10 percent productions. Again they offer hot beefcake and nice bare buns, buttered just right in soft light and crisp tones. WOOF. Either calendar selections will please the discriminating Daddy and his boys. Check out on their site James Franklin hot collection of 13 mouthwatering cowboy studs. Yipee and Howdy. On the same subject, check out the tried and true offered in Studs n Spurs. It doesn't let you down.

I also offer for your selection calendars that are so mainstream. Fritz of Holland's drawings of hot beefcake is exceptional as always. Mr. March is very awe inspiring. Very hot images that make you look forward to every month.

These are my picks for 2005 hottest calendars. Of course, you can make your own to log on to everyday. Check out all the hot studs posted on the gRuffmen group at Yahoo groups. I am sure you can find just the right "daddies next door" to make each and ever day enjoyable.

Take each day by the hand and enjoy.

The Apprentice Boy: First Exposure

As we last met our 20 boys, they were getting acquainted. They were next assigned to a group, either Team Shackle or Team Gaunlet.

Let's spy on each team and see what the fuck's going on.

Team Shackle seems structured and is trying to develop a business plan to get their "BoyonCall" service operational. They each want to please Daddy by exposing their business skills. Already a few of the boys are getting into the planning. I see Derrick by himself in the corner, more concerned with matters in hand than staying focused and contributing to the group,.

Likewise Team Gauntlet is making sure it can get its plan for the Romper Dungle dungeons beyond paper. Some of the guys, especially Doug, are letting pettiness get into the way. Doug feels that a architectual 3D mock up of the dungle be constructed. He sees apathy in some of the boys and wants to get this project started. He feels that by building the mockup that the group will be judged better equiped later on to carry out their business plan. They will have to present it to a panel of financial investors to seek funding. They are vying for limited resources and Doug feels that their plan should be in the advanced stages of development before they make their presentation.

So the two teams are going about their assignments in different ways. Will Derrick and Doug be given the boot by their fellow boytoys for different reasons? Is Derrick too self centered to be of any use to Team Shackle further down the road? Is Doug taking too much authority and causing resentment among his team members? Who do you think should be given the boot? Stay tuned to find out what develops.

Joss Stone is this Daddy's girl

Just got back from the Kmart where I purchased the latest Joss Stone CD, mind, body and soul.
She co-wrote the first ten songs. Most are excellent, a few like"Security" are repetitous of the previous cuts. But along with the great legend, Betty Wright and equal, Angie Stone, there are some awesome songs. The first cut,"Right to be Wrong" kicks ass and sets the pace for the rest of the release.

Joss has that voice that just doesn't quit. She is Janis Joplin reincarnated, only better, refined, yet with this structured rawness. She effortlessly belts out lyrics that are meaningful, far beyond her 17 years.

There are some fantastic lyrics sprinkled throughout her songs. "TORN AND Tattered" is a great example. "SIck of singing living my life singing the same old song." This girl sings from the heart and she means every word of it. She makes Betty Wright's lyrics come to life.

"Young AT Heart" is an effort that brings Joss back to her current life, as a young girl trying to find what love is. Such lyrics as "Whenever I'm lonely he is the only one I miss." shows a young girl who has a crush and is love sick for her man. THose are meaningful lyrics and can really hit home.

I haven't been floored by a singer in a very long time. I love singers who belt a tune, straight from the heart. She is in the mold of Linda Ronstadt and Dusty Springfield and should have a long and creative career.

So give Joss a chance. She is worth the time. Savoy this voice. She'll soon become your favorite, too.