Are you listening Al Gore? Sometimes global warming isn't all bad. Here in Paris, we've had the hottest April since 1952. I'm not complaining. It sure makes our last few days here in Paris more pleasant than last year when an endless spring chill lingered around until July. Merci beaucoup!
While having dinner tonight with our friend Peter, one topic of conversation was what Chris and I were going to do tomorrow. Being that it's a national holiday called "Day of No Work," many have the day off. Restaurants are closed. Retailers are closed. Even our gym is closed. Fortunately for us, the movie theatres are open. In fact, Spiderman 3 begins tomorrow - three days ahead of the U.S. so we're going to the hot, steamy and most likely smelly cineplex tomorrow at 11:40 to be one of the first to see the webslinger in action. Peter of course couldn't understand the excitement. He's waiting for the DVD release - and even then he won't watch it until he's absolutely bored. His loss. I'm giddy not only knowing the summer movie season has begun but also that I get to see the film before everyone else back home. I guess that makes me feel special.
Today we picked-up a painting we purchased last weekend. After this 35 minute excursion across maybe 12 blocks, I realized even further why I don't drive in Paris - it's hell. Fortunately for me, I've only operated a vehicle as many times as I can count on one hand. And probably fortunate for others, I don't plan on doing it anytime soon.
This week, I actually found a male vocalist dance record worthy of being featured on Club Fridays. Chicago's own Ralphi Rosario remixes Enrique's new single (and oddly titled) Do You Know (The Ping Pong Song). Ralphi's trademark beats work nicely with the song's melody. Link available here. 
Jojo does Toto! Her latest single Anything samples Toto's Africa - one of my favorite songs of all time. By punching up the original, WaWa converts Anything's hip hop beats to a more progressive, European sound. And with full-on vocals, it's hard to resist (even if Africa is limited to just the breakdown). Link available here.
Please note: the songs featured on this site are notices to links only (and mostly unavailable for purchase). I do not upload any music - I merely share the links to tracks I find interesting and noteworthy.
The song is featured in a UK advertisement for Heinz Salad Cream (another way to sell maynonaise). Everytime I hear the tune, it's in my head for hours. I finally found out where it comes from - Sesame Street! See the original below. But beware! You'll be singing it until tomorrow.
I was a bit scolded today at the gym for not speaking French. An acquaintance said hello then mumbled something I couldn't understand. When I replied that I didn't understand, he said in English, "You've lived here for two years and you don't know what I said? You should be speaking French." It's not that I'm not speaking French. It's the fact that he said it so quickly I needed him to repeat - which, by the way, isn't uncommon. All of this got me thinking. If the situation was reversed, would I reprimand someone in America for not speaking English?
It's called Nouvelle Star and it's the French version of American Idol. And just like Sanjaya in America, the show has finalists that are more buzz worthy for their strange performances than actual singing. Julien isn't the best, but there's something oddly entertaining about his take on Madonna's Like a Virgin. Check it out below (it's a bit blurry but worth the eye strain).
The weather in Paris continues to be freakishly warm and summer-like. But considering we don't have central air conditioning, it's a bit unpleasant for sleeping at night. We do, however, have a roll-away a/c unit. But because it requires outside ventilation, it's quite the process to connect it to a window lining I make out of plastic shower curtains (hidden by curtains of course). So, it looks like I'll be having a few restless nights until the weather returns to more suitable conditions for snoozing.
Yesterday, after Dennis the Cat’s room exploded with food everywhere, an odd smell filled the space. I thought it might coming from his electric water dish because his breakfast, lunch and dinner filled the contraption with soggy tuna flavored pieces. But after searching in a space no bigger than a walk-in closet for 30 minutes, I gave up - hoping the smell would go away. Luckily, it did. Apparently the foul odor was seeping through the floor from the eatery below. Reason #458 not to live above a fish restaurant.
I've neglected to include an update on our Munich move for friends and family back home. Here it is in 140 words or less. For everyone else, well, check back tomorrow for more interesting tidbits you'd find interesting - like why French men dress like cheesy Italians when it's 80 degrees and sunny in Paris.
If your having a bad start to your week, check out the UK's entry for Eurovision 2007. It's funny to watch an over-the-hill, manufactured pop group try to recapture their glory days. Couldn't Scooch have spent a bit more time on the choreography? And what's up with the costumes? Tragic.
I can't comment on how good Jason Lewis looks on ABC's Brothers & Sisters since it's one of those shows unavailable on our satellite. But in his Aero chocolates ad here in Europe, it appears he's caught the "Antonio Sabato Syndrome." He's so lean and muscular his face looks gaunt and deprived of nourishment. Give the man a sandwich. He's obviously not eating the chocolates!
Today's voting in France, shockingly, was relatively quiet. Instead of manifesting around the city, Parisians took to the polls with a subdued sense of urgency with almost 85% casting their vote. They'll riot about the rising cost of cheese but remain calm for presidential elections. Just when I think I've figured them out.
When it comes to ailments, marketers in America rarely show the body part affected - consider it the pink elephant in the room. In Europe, however, they have no problems using real images to sell a product. Nothing pushes hemroids cream better than a man's firm and fit "derriere" I suppose.
This week, Club Fridays is all about celebrating Tony Moran. He's a producer, songwriter, singer and DJ. His latest collaborations with Kristine W and Jennifer Lopez continue his tradition of reworking original mixes into diva dance anthems. For information on Tony Moran, check out his website at www. djtonymoran.com.
In preparation for our move to Munich, our friend Francesca recently gave us Xenophobe's Guide to the Germans. It's a book that comedically tries to explain German beliefs to a "Xenophobe" - someone who might have an "irrational fear of foreigners." As the publisher states, "To be forewarned is forearmed." So, over the next 8 weeks, I'll be sharing some interesting tibits from the book.
Isn’t it funny how we’re never satisfied? It seems we always want more money, more time, and in my case, more muscles. But over the past month, I’ve been trying to accept my body for what is – lean and tidy. I may not weigh over 200 pounds as originally planned, but resting around 170 should be acceptable. Besides that, when I see what others do to get what they want, like a bigger physique, I realize sometimes you need to know when to call it quits and accept what your family tree has given you.
Everytime we return stateside, we bring a suitcase back to Paris filled with those items difficult or expensive to find in Paris. Why? Consider this: I just bought 8 soft taco shells at the market for over $6.00! Crazy. But compared to peanut butter's $9.00 price tag, I guess it's a bargain.
...and I don't mean the weather. David Beckham and his bird-like wife apparently were in town and shopping just up the street at Collette. Maddie and I walk by there quite reguarly, but we NEVER see anyone. I didn't think that store still drew a famous crowd considering that's why people go there - to see someone like the Beckhams.
Last year, we started seeing guys wear one pant leg rolled. I thought it was a trend until someone convinced me it was because they didn't want their pant leg stuck in their bike chain. Because I'm seeing it again this year (now more than ever), I've come to realize it's indeed a trend - and one that's quite odd.
I won't pretend to understand how foreign currencies are rated against the dollar. All I know is this is crazy. For those living in Europe, going to America is like visiting Macy's during a White Sale. It sure explains all the foreigners shopping in NY and buying property in Miami Beach. It's cheap!
Some is camp. Some is crap. But some is really good. Check out Russia's entry Song Number one by Serebro. It has hints of Shania in her glory days. And it's all in English! So far, this one takes my vote.
For some reason, European advertising (especially those products related to doing your laundry) can be a little creepy. First there was the odd little blue man selling Comfort fabric softener in the UK. Now in France there are billboards featuring a 3D, ghost-like blonde girl suprised by her laundry detergent. Even worse, she looks like Heather O'Rourke, the "They're here" girl from Poltergeist. I'm sure the French don't remember "Carol Anne, Carol Anne." But please, come into the light and stop subjecting the general public to frightening images of eerie little people.
It's Monday, so why not feature another crazy entry for this year's 2007 Eurovision contest. (For those of you not following along, Eurovision is an annual competition in which most countries of the EU submit a song to be performed on live TV. Voters then cast their choice for the winner. The semi-finals are held this May 10 with the finals two days later). Today's feature is DQ's Drama Queen - Denmark's winner and official song. It's even performed live! Happy Monday!
Now that we "think" we know where we'll be living in Munich, I'm on the hunt for a gym like L'Usine in Paris. I've sent emails to hotels. I've contacted friends of friends. We even had the opportunity to visit a few when we were in Munich last February. What I'm finding isn't good. In fact, I'm a bit worried. It looks like I'll be lifting weights in a Bally's rip-off.
This week, Club Fridays is all about true Euro dance pop. Not only are the artists from across the pond, the remix teams are as well. So get a head of the curve and take a listen!
Please note: the songs featured on this site are notices to links only. I do not upload any music - I merely share the links to tracks I find interesting and noteworthy.
In preparation for our move to Munich, our friend Francesca recently gave us Xenophobe's Guide to the Germans. It's a book that comedically tries to explain German beliefs to a "Xenophobe" - someone who might have an "irrational fear of foreigners." As the publisher states, "To be forewarned is forearmed." So, over the next 8 weeks, I'll be sharing some interesting tibits from the book.
With the weather hovering around 75 degrees, today was the first time I wore shorts. And, as I walked through the city gathering Mariage Fréres tea bags for my friend Joel, I saw maybe five other people doing the same. I did, however, still see winter coats, scarves and the occasional hat. Before I would have been too insecure to pull out the shorts. Now I realize I'm not the freak.
I'll admit, marketers in Europe really know how to make a good cereal. Not only have they been at the forefront in adding chocolate to the all day treat (which is now making it stateside with Life Chocolate Oat Crunch and Special K Chocolatey Delight), they are consistently innovating.
Going on two weeks and counting. So while America freezes, Europe enjoys a heatwave! Good thing my work schedule is flexible so I can enjoy afternoon walks along the Seine. My Puerto Vallarta tan needs a booster shot.
Speaking of processed foods, tonight I had a craving for Kraft Macaroni and Cheese. But instead of using the white, insulin inducing pasta noodles, I substituted whole wheat elbow macaroni. And to make it even healthier, I used low fat milk, no butter and fromage blanc for a burst of added protein. But why do I feel a bit guilty about throwing away what comes in the box? I blame it on my mom. She made me frugal. That's right. It's all her fault.
Apparently it was a good move on my part to end my quest for weight and mass gain. I've been told many times since my journey ended that I "was heavy," that I "looked like a cow," and that "I'm much better now than before." And that's putting it nicely. The French obviously were paying attention and don't mind stating their personal opinions. To top it off, going back to blonde also was beneficial as I'm told it "makes me look younger." So the lesson I think I've learned: be happy with who I am. Which, because I'm gay, is very difficult to accept. We always want more and more and more...
For starters, what is Eurovision? In short, it's an annual competition in which most countries of the EU submit a song to be performed on live TV. Voters then cast their choice for the winner. The semi-finals are held this May 10 with the finals two days later. Some consider it a joke as last year's winner was monster band Lordi from Finland. Check out France's submission for the semi-finals. The song isn't good, but it's fun to watch all the places in the video - as we see them everyday.
I may have lived in Paris for almost two years, but some oddities are still quite difficult to swallow. Let's take French eggs for example. When you buy them at the market, they're not refrigerated. But that's not the problem. It's what's stuck to the eggs. Nothing says "sanitary" like dirty feathers adhered to your breakfast.
France is still in vacation mode as today is a national holiday in Paris. But for those of you back to work, consider this my way of saying "happy Monday." Calvin Harris' new song Acceptable in the 80s is pure silliness. If you need a giggle, check out what I consider not quite noteworthy, but new none-the-less.
Before moving to Paris, I was most comfortable in an A & F t-shirt and Diesel jeans. I didn’t pay much attention to designer labels such as Alexander McQueen or Neil Barrett. Banana Republic, along with the rest of America, is where I shopped for work. But now my tastes and attitude towards fashion have changed. Rather than fill my closet with mid-priced trends that lose form and function quickly, I’ve converted to the “less is more” mentality. In other words, when shopping, I now buy quality over quantity.
My grandma asked me last night if I was going to church today for Easter. I honestly replied, "Um, no." Not that I'm unreligious, I'm just not a fan singing hymnals.
We couldn't decide what to eat tonight for dinner. We thought about going out considering it's almost 70 degrees and sunny (ah, Paris in spring). But after trying to select something healthy (since we're venturing out tomorrow night to our favorite Italian bistro), we opted to stay in and eat Tuna Helper. Sure, it may be loaded with sodium, but it's low in fat and fairly decent in carbs. And by adding sweet peas, we balance it out with some vegetables. You can take the boy out of Kansas but...
You'd think after living in Paris for almost two years I'd know when to kiss to say hello and when a handshake will do. I still make mistakes.
It's been a good week on PTT for Therese. She was featured in New & Noteworthy a few days back, in another post with her collaboration with the Attic and now on Club Fridays. Sometimes you just deserve the attention. The first mix of Feelin' Me mixed by Digital Dog retains much of the original with its 80s inspired synthesizers. Click here to download. The second mix by Thomas Gold is for lovers of electro. Link available here.
The second single this week, Offer Nissim's For Your Love featuring Maya, won't appeal to everyone. The Peter Rauhofer mix is dark. It's sexy. It's hot. Click here to download. The original version keeps Offers "progressive house" vibe in place along with most of the vocals. Both are excellent. Link available here.
The Swedes obviously don't know how to pick a winner for their entry into the annual Eurovision song contest (other than Abba that is). This year, a great song by The Attic featuring Therese (now I can see why she's the Queen of Dance Mafia - she's everywhere!) only mustered 7th place in Sweden's music fest. They need to get their ears cleaned. The Arrival is one fine piece of Euro pop. Check it out below.
Today was the first true day of Spring in Paris. The wind didn't have a bite. The chill was gone - replaced with plenty of sunshine. And as I walked to the open market for a rotisserie chicken for dinner, I started to absorb the sights and sounds of Paris even more than before. Because knowing it's gone in 7 weeks, I realized what I see now is something I'll most likely appreciate once we're gone.
She's apparently "The Queen of the Swedish Dance Mafia." Who knew they had one? Are they more powerful than the "Gay Mafia?" Either way, she comes out swinging with Feelin' Me - a ditty of a dance song sure to hit big in Europe but barely make a blip in America. Look for the remix to be featured this week on Club Fridays.
Looks like the French presidential race is getting nasty. Two words: big surprise.
My job as “House Manager” is never done. Sure, I don’t have to clean that often with Alyse coming every Tuesday and Saturday. But lately, I’ve been on “vomit patrol.”
As Aunt Linda from SNL would say, "Whaaaaaaaaaaaaat?" The landlord of our 3rd choice flat in Munich apparently wants a four year contract. At this rate, we'll be living in a box by June 1st. Well, if not in a box, at least out of them until we find a home.
In preparation for our move to Munich, our friend Francesca recently gave us Xenophobe's Guide to the Germans. It's a book that comedically tries to explain German beliefs to a "Xenophobe" - someone who might have an "irrational fear of foreigners." As the publisher states, "To be forewarned is forearmed." So, over the next 8 weeks, I'll be sharing some interesting tibits from the book.
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