Let the Summer Begin!

Today I bought our tickets for tomorrow's 2:45 (or 14:45 for all you Europeans) showing of Iron Man. The Robert Downey Jr. flick is the first out of the gate this summer (even beating the US release date by one day). And since tomorrow is a holiday, and Accuweather.com is forecasting Munich's weather to be rainy, we thought it was the perfect day to catch our first movie in months. We have reserved seats so I don't need to stress. Because if we were in America, the theater would be swamped - and I'd be unpleasant. Not tomorrow. Easy, breezy...

Chuck's Not Holding My Interest

We're watching our second episode of Chuck. As of 32 minutes in, I'm thinking the only reason to watch is "Captain Awesome." Other than that, I find myself being distracted by other activities - such as the blog. Though, I haven't noted much as work has consumed me once again. This time, I'm writing a European Product Guide for the new "M" burger that launched in France and Germany a few weeks ago - and one burger that's overtaken Chris' life since moving to Paris almost three years ago. Good thing the new premium burger is doing well! Again, as Chris' business manager, I like to gather substantial evidence why I think he should be promoted.

Hand Slapped!

Today I got my hand slapped a bit by the lesbian who manages our building (not that being a lesbian is problematic, it just adds a bit more comedic detail to the story). I bought mulch to place around flowers I planted in our front walkway. In addition, I also sprinkled slug killer to keep the snails from eating my hard work. Turns out the blue pellets are poisonous to dogs so she wanted me to ask her next time before doing any work. This, combined with the fact that I rearranged her efforts last week as she planted bushes and solar lights in designs that made no sense, probably makes her frustrated. I don't think she's mad - she actually appreciates my efforts. It's just managing the building, and yard work, is her job and not mine. So, understandably, I should ask. I just don't like to.

Kristin Wiig Rocks Again!

I love me some Kristin Wiig. But sadly, now that NBC has Hulu.com, I can't watch most of her SNL skits on-line. So, it's makes me happy when others around the world upload her videos - ones that don't get blocked in Europe. So, I was thrilled to find one of Kristin's latest videos on defamer.com. I can't embed the skit, but you can watch it by clicking here. Good to know she's getting the recognition she deserves - first a shout out in EW and now this.

Superstar!

Chris had a big photo shoot on Friday for numerous publications and media outlets. This picture, and subsequent story blip, is the first to be released by Reuters. In the words of Mary Katherine Gallagher, "Superstar!"

This Sure Doesn't Help

Just when you think it's safe to ride the train, this happens. Not exactly what I want to read after spending four hours on a high-speed train this weekend from Munich to Zurich.

Bonjour A & F!

With A & F now scheduled to move into Paris and the Avenue des Champs Élysées by Christmas, there goes any panache of wearing the brand in Europe. Because now, A & F is seen as a specialty clothing line - worn by everyone age 10-60 (because in Europe, there isn't any TOFA or too old for Abercrombie). I see that changing with the store in Paris and one rumored for Rome, Italy.

Zurich Photo Album

I wonder if athletic shorts and calf socks, along with party whistles, are making a big gay comeback? They seemed to be plentiful last night at the White Party in Zurich. If that's the case, get ready America. It's coming.

Zurich's Big, Gay Prom - A White Party Review

Because my friend DP (the PTT Swiss Correspondent) committed to moving to Zurich in December, I’ve had plans to visit him this past weekend since the first of the year. We specifically chose the weekend of April 25th as there was a gay dance party called “The White Party” – the perfect opportunity for us to experience together our first circuit party in Zurich and to dress like Miami pimps (though, I carefully pulled together a stylish all white outfit consisting of Diesel Jeans, a white tank, painted Chucks and a sparkling blue belt decorated with purple and silver jewels for a splash of color). Besides that, we thought the event might make it easy for DP to meet new people and expand his social circle in the biggest city in Switzerland.

Turns out, our plan of attack was a success as not only did we meet a great group of guys from Switzerland (who were mostly our age and not the 18 year olds we initially feared would take over the party), we also hung out with their friends from Vienna (including Armin who I referred to as "Adorable") and Munich for five hours on the dancefloor bopping to driving progressive beats interlaced with recognized vocals. And, before we left, we exchanged profile information on Facebook and Switzerland’s Gay Romeo (not that I have a profile but DP in Zurich soon will as he’s single) – all pointing to a successful night at the White Party. So because the night was a success, we’re already contemplating the big party this summer on the lake as well as a techno parade to celebrate the closing of summer. Not that I need a big, gay prom to get me to Zurich, but it sure does help!

How Ironic

When I was on the train to Zurich Friday, I noticed in the bathroom a small pimple forming on the right-hand side of my forehead. So of course, I started to worry it would get bigger and ruin my weekend. So how ironic is it that the pimple disappeared on Saturday and was replaced by two large red bumps on the left hand side– the unfortunate result of me smashing my head against a glass wall on the train as I caught a glimpse of an advertisement featuring the gay model of the moment Chad White (only to try and better understand what makes him such a big deal).

Zurich Live: The Swiss So Far

My train ride to Zurich couldn't have been easier. No security check. Nothing. From our house to my train seat: 20 minutes. I did find it funny that as soon as we crossed over into Switzerland, border patrol with guns came through asking to see our passports. Luckily the weather is cooperating as it's around 70 degrees. So, we've been walking the city since 11:00 a.m. We've stopped for a bathroom break at DP's apartment, then onto the lake for another stroll until early evening when we'll return, rest, and get ready for the big White Party tonight. Not sure what to expect with the gay dance, but I'll make note that I'm not expecting much. It's always better to think the worst.

Off 2 Zurich

It will be my first time in Switzerland. I'm catching the 12:34 train from Munich to Zurich - another first. I've charged my computer, packed reading material, and planned for a pleasant four hour ride in first class (before any comments are noted, there isn't that much of a price difference between classes). So check back later this weekend, or Monday, for an update from Zurich!

It feels like fall as it's chilly and raining. As you're riding the escalator, do you ever think about the hair, skin particles and germs that blow your way from the people in front of you? Why do Germans where the funniest clothes, like cargo shorts and polos, to the gym? Speaking of the gym, Tilo, one of the trainers from Leo's, commented how everyone seemed to be on steroids at the David Barton gym he visited in New York. To him, it was bizarre as you don't see many here in Munich. I'm considered more normal - and everyone back home tells me I'm skinny! We're having to give Maddie daily biscuits filled with vitamins for her limp. At least they taste good - not that I've tried but she seems to like them. Chris made bierocks on Sunday out of a new whole wheat bread mixture we found at the store. What a surprise. It was delicious and good for you. I'm going to try my hand at them tonight. I don't like to cook but I'm forced to Monday through Friday. That's the downfall about working from home. Our plants are dying around the house as I bought Ikea pots that don't drain. I either don't water them enough or too much (I don't want water sitting in the bottom causing root rot). I'm hoping they can hang on for another six or seven months. I leave for Zurich tomorrow - the first time on the big trains. I return on Sunday. A short but expected nice weekend visiting DP - the PTT correspondent in Switzerland. We're getting our groove on as Saturday night at the White Party. I'm not sure what to expect. It could be really good or just plain tragic. I'll report back next week. I'm still hunting for a job. So even though the posting to the left is gone, it's not that I've stop looking. So keep your ears to the ground for something communication related - seems to be my best bet moving forward. That's all for now!

Eurovision 2008 - Latvia

Feeling bored at work? Check out Latvia's entry for Eurovision 2008. It's all about Pirates. Don't ask me why. I suppose it's because Latvia saw the success of Pirates of the Caribbean and thought, "Why not?" Be sure to check back for more contestants and the winning entry on May 24th!

Can Peter Save Madonna?

Have you missed the tunes? It's been a while since I've made note of any good music. Believe me, there's plenty out in the universe. But few have rocked by boat. That, and my time has been limited lately. That all changes today as I've found the link to Madonna's 4 Minutes remixed by Peter Rauhofer. Madonna commissioned Peter for the remixes (as well as Tracy Young and Bob Sinclar). Peter worked overtime and delivered not one, but three power stompers. I prefer the Peter Saves New York the best as the beat drives harder than the other two: Peter Saves Paris and Peter Saves London. Hopefully, Peter's remixes will help propel Madonna back up the chart as she slipped from 3 to 7 on Billboard's charts last week.

McDonald's Up Overseas

And as Chris' business manager, I say the McDonald's profit increase is all because of him.

Down Goes the Dollar - Again!

Will the madness ever end? By the time we move, the dollar will be so weak against the Euro we'll never be able to come back.

Headcases Rings True

There's a new show in the UK called Headcases. The show's promo caught my attention as its depiction of the Beckhams seems dead on - and more in line with reality vs. the media's (and Armani's) glamorization (and "hunkification") of skinny little David. Check out the promo below.

Captain Awesome Can Save Me Anyday

I know NBC's Chuck didn't take off in America last fall. And because of the strike this year, they're giving it another shot in September. Thank goodness as I'd hate to see "Captain Awesome" disappear from the airwaves. He's hot. Ryan McPartlin, a former A & F model (big surprise) and former athlete who decided to give acting a try (another big surprise) is one of the best reasons to watch the show - which we sampled tonight as it's now on our satellite feed from the UK. We're not 100% sold on the show (preferring Pushing Daisies (another show that just launched), but if "Captain Awesome" runs around in his underwear in episode four, well, we'll give it a few more tries.

Delicious Hard Candy

Perez Hilton noted that Madonna's Hard Candy leaked yesterday.  So of course I turned to my trusted blog resources for the tunes - and I found them.  Now, I'll admit I downloaded the album.  Because lately, the full albums I've heard, like Mariah's, Janet's, etc., haven't been worth the money - not even close.  Madonna's, however, is simply awesome.  It's not heavy on the hip hop (like some feared).  Instead, she returns to a more simple sound, incorporating an 80s sense of pop sensibility, relying on her voice (undistorted) and easy instrumentation to carry the melodies.  In short, don't expect the 11 tunes on the CD to be like that of 4 Minutes because their not - far from it actually.  Which, I'm happy to report, is a good thing.  So yes Madonna will get my $10 next week when Hard Candy is released.  

My favorites:  Give It To Me, Heartbeat,  Beat Goes On, and Dance Tonight with Justin Timberlake.   

Going Crazy?

I've just spent the morning looking for my passport.  I even called the airport.  Luckily, I just found it.  I must have grabbed it while I was leaving this morning and placed it on top of a bookshelf.  Sadly, I don't even remember doing so.  Even worse, I do this all the time - misplacing items, leaving the stovetop burning, etc.  It's either old age, craziness or just too many thoughts swirling around in my head.  All I know is I wish it would stop.

Pepperidge Farm Bread

I'm sitting here eating my 5:00 p.m. sandwich snack - on Arnold Oat Nut Bread. I brought it back from Florida. As good as German bread is, I love the soft texture of the American made variety. Seriously, you can squish it into a ball. Um um good.

Hot Snowman

PTT Correspondent DP reports from Switzerland that last Monday was the Sechseläuten festival in Zurich. In short, think Groundhog's Day. But instead of any animals involved, the Swiss blow-up a "snowman." And depending on how long it takes for the "snowman's" head to explode, it will be either a cold or hot summer. Last Monday, the The Böögg "snowman" predicted a cold summer. According to DP, the burning of the "snowman" looked like a Pagan ritual. I can only imagine.

The Good & The Bad

It's great to hear Top Chef Chicago on Bravo is up double digits from last year including first in total viewers among all basic cable networks last week. I'm always cheering for Chicago.

On the flip side, it's sad to hear more than 32 kids have been shot in the Windy City recently. Hopefully, the bloodshed will end.

Yes, I'm Serious

The video below is #2 on the charts in Germany. It started out as a ringtone. Now, Schnuffel's Kuschel Song has a full release. Happy Monday!