Archive for the 'Us' Category

Nov 04 2008

I Voted

Published by David under Life, Politics, Us

I just returned home from voting.  I’m feeling a little nervous, a little anxious, but overall I feel real good.

I parked, walked in, found the table for my district, and signed my name. There were a total of four booths in the courtroom, two for each district.  I was directed to one of them and immediately flicked the lever for Barack Obama and Joe Biden once I closed the curtain.  I voted for the other candidates running for various offices, opened the curtain, said my goodbyes to the volunteers, and came home.

Renee will stop at the town hall on the way home and hopefully have as easy a time as I had.

We’ll be watching CNN (after Indecision ‘08) into the late hours so I’m sure I’ll be in rough shape tomorrow.  But I hope that I will go to sleep with a smile on my face and wake up to realize it wasn’t a dream.  That Barack Obama is indeed the next President of the United States.

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Sep 29 2008

I Thought It Would Never End…

Published by David under Movies, Us

No, not the weekend.  I knew that was going to be over relatively quickly.  I’m talking about The Dark Knight.

This film went on for far, far too long.  It was a great movie, I’ll grant them that, but it could have ended a lot sooner (and left us with a better taste) if everyone did not have a monologue.  Everyone.  I think Gordon’s kid even had a few minutes on a soapbox.  But hey, aside from that , I really dug it.  Michael Caine as Alfred and Morgan Freeman as Lucuis Fox made me chuckle, had some good lines, and played well against Christian Bale’s Bruce Wayne (although, seriously, what’s with the voice, man?).  Frickin’ Eric Roberts AND Anthony Michael Hall!?!?  How can you go wrong?  You can’t.  I won’t spoil anything, but I will say that it was a swell follow-up to Begins, picked up where that movie left off and did a real good job of getting you up to speed in case you missed this group’s first outing.  I do recommend it, but Iron Man - even though we’re getting into apples and oranges here but everyone asks which one’s better? - beats it hands down (speaking of Shellhead, I can’t wait for Tuesday).

We also watched Tropic Thunder and there were a ton of laugh out loud moments.  Sure, they were stupid or corny jokes (sometimes the jokes were stupid and corny), not quite at the level of, say, Airplane, but I’ll give it up to the writers for bringing the funny and the actors for getting it out there.  Robert Downey, Jr. was hilarious and I only wish subtitles were an option so I could understand some of what he was saying.  Ben Stiller, Matthew McConaughey, and even Tom Cruise in a surprise appearance all had a chance to make me laugh and it happened many times.  Brainless comedy which is what was needed.  Funny as hell.

I finished the weekend watching Wanted.  And color me impressed.  Having never read the original mini series, I wasn’t sure what to expect, and I’m pretty sure my expectations were a little on the low side.  And bullshit pshysics notwithstanding, I found myself really getting into it.  Again, another movie where I thought everyone brought their working shoes and got the job done.

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Sep 09 2008

That Which Doesn’t Kill You…

Published by David under House, Life, Pets, Us

It’s no secret that 2008’s heel hasn’t stopped grinding Renee and me into the ground.  Hell, it’s been kicking a lot of people in the taint, I know we do not have the monopoly on that, that’s for certain.  But there aren’t too many experiences that generate the same nausea-inducing feeling I have right now.  Feeling helpless, hopeless, inept, insecure…  The list goes on.

It’s also no secret that Renee is the stronger one between the two of us.  She has the smarts, the looks, I accepted this long ago and I’m cool with it.  To say I was oblivious to what was going on with the mortgage would be a massive understatement.  But I’m working on that, as unfair as it was at the time.

Right now we’re feeling beaten.  Aside from this long battle, 2008 has taken our dog, our time, our money, and pretty much our spirit.

If you’re unaware, last week GMAC closed its doors and laid off over 5,000 people, give or take.  Our broker was one of those people.  But he has our file, is working with a company he has a rapport with, and we should be hearing from him soon.  We were expecting to hear from him Friday, but that didn’t happen.  We didn’t hear from him today, either.  Friday was also the day Renee received some pretty depressing news at work.  Saturday we braced for the storm that was coming with the leftovers from Hannah.  We had a little trickle of water come into the basement, but nothing the dehumidifier couldn’t handle.  But I still freak out a tad when we get or are expecting to get some heavy rainfall.  Luckily this was mostly wind.  Sunday was the only bright spot in recent memory - we went for a drive, had a nice brunch, did some window shopping, picked up some bargain-priced books, came home and spent time with Nanuuq before doing the usual ‘get ready for the work week’ routine.

So yeah, today, still no word on our refinance.  And even though we have proof that the mortgage has been paid every month and in full, the shitheels at ASC (an oh-so-wonderful Wells Fargo company) have been reporting that the payments are late and are only partial.  And it doesn’t look like Equifax believes us or the evidence that supports our claim.

Tonight I called the woman that I love and adore that I would do anything for (and do anything to) and she sounds crushed.  And that’s where the feelings I described come into play.  The idea that I can’t do anything to make this right, to make her feel better, to ease her pain and frustration makes me ill.  I try to scream, nothing comes out.  I’m even too damn spent to cry.

Maybe typing out my various and assorted thoughts will help somewhat.

There are people worse off than us.  Without a doubt.  I wish I could help them.  But as this pity party proves, I can’t even help myself or my wife.

We just want this over.  We mistakenly assumed that 2008 would be ‘our year’.  We get it.  It’s not.  You win.

Happy fucking birthday to me.

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Jul 17 2008

This and That

Published by David under Art, Comic Books, Marvel Noise, Podcasts, Us

To say I’ve been lax in getting updates out is an understatement.  I’ve been virtually nonexistent on FriendFeed and have posted less on the forums I frequent.

However, on the plus side, I’ve gotten a little bit more reading done.  Batman: Under The Hood (volumes one and two), the 20th Anniversary Edition of Batman: The Killing Joke, and The Seven Soldiers of Victory (read volumes one and two, almost done with three, and can’t wait to get into four).  Also, sitting next to me is X-Men: Supernovas, the oversize hardcover that is just beautiful to look at.

But reading isn’t all I’ve been doing.  There have also been a couple podcasts with my name attached to them.  After taking a week off, Marvel Noise is back with episode 41.  Of course, 11 O’Clock Comics released its eleventh episode last week.  I’ve taken Derek Coward up on his offer and there is a new addition to The ReaderFeed with episode 19 - Mage: The Hero Discussed recently had the introductory show published.  And something that’s near and dear to me - and seems to be recieving positive comments - is the first episode debuting under the Comic Book Noise Presents… banner, Driving With The Prices, which is just that: me and Renee in the car having a conversation.

How’d that happen?  Well, we were in the car and I had my recorder.  She had just finished reading The Killing Joke and wanted to talk about it.  Who am I to argue?  If my wife wants to chat comics, you best believe that’s what we’re gonna do.

I hope to update soon, but you know what they say about hope…

Marvel Noise 41 (direct download)

11 O’Clock Comics 11 (direct download)

Mage: The Hero Discussed (direct download)

Driving With The Prices (direct download)

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Jun 23 2008

Midday In The Garden of Good and More Good

Published by David under Us

We were finally able to break in Renee’s membership to the New York Botanical Garden and what a great time we had.

We were lucky with the weather, although I wouldn’t have said no to a breeze now and then.  Renee was in heaven and I was happy to be there.  I could have snapped more photos and next time I will.  For now, here are some pictures to document the day, including the rose garden where I was able to snage a shot of a bee hard at work (click on the image to move on to the next one).

I’m looking forward to our next trip when we can tackle the other side.

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May 12 2008

At The Close of Another Weekend

Published by David under Comic Books, Conventions, Friends, House, Us

I think this weekend was a good one.  I was able to mow the lawn (much to Nanuuq’s happiness, as in some areas, the grass was up to her tuchas) and help Renee in the yard as well as run through our usual errands.  We also made it to Walmart where I was able to swap one of our empty propane tanks for a full one.  Which meant I was able to grill up some hot dogs for Renee and I tried something new - grilling up some cheese quesadillas.  And they came out pretty well.

Today was spent powerwashing the deck, where Renee was rearranging and setting up the furniture.  I grilled up some chicken and we spent a nice, peaceful day together.  I think she had a very good birthday and mother’s day.

We also got to see a little art film.  I think it’s in limited release, not on too many screens.  Something called Iron Man.

So yeah, I think this weekend capped off a pretty decent week, cable issues with the phone and the ‘net notwithstanding.  Vince, Chris, and I recorded the second episode of 11 O’Clock Comics and that seems to have a few folks entertained.  Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to set up any Sneak Peeks for Marvel titles shipping next week, but I plan on being on the ball this Friday.

I almost forgot - Saturday night, I received a text message from Pat Loika (who was attending the Emerald City Comic Con) with the following image attached.  I love the big guy and my infatuation with Jeff Parker continues to grow.  Gentlemen, thank you both.

If you’re not reading X-Men: First Class, shame on you!

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May 05 2008

Tchotchkes From My Head

Published by David under Friends, Life, Podcasts, Us

Wrapping up a real nice weekend.  Only thing missing is some wine…

It’s always nice to drive out to Adams Fairacre Farms

Catching up on Spectacular Spider episodes from the past couple weeks while working on my little something for the upcoming comics podcast theme week.

I need to reconfigure the Treo since it’s screwed up more than one birthday (sorry, sis!) and May has bunch of ‘em.  I’ll be suffering for awhile if I mess up ma’s or Renee’s.

I’m enjoying the introduction of Spidey’s rogues gallery in this cartoon.  Shocker was cool with some nice continuity, as was Doc Ock.  Good stuff.

I really want to see Iron Man.  Preferably, before it’s on DVD. Not holding my breath, but stranger things have happened.

This really caps off a nice week.  Had some great times with Renee (always fun to see and hear her laugh) and I had a blast chatting with Vince and Chris, which became the first episode of the new 11 O’Clock Comics podcast.  Thanks to everyone to gave it a listen.  Speaking of Chris Neseman (and podcasts), this week also  brought us the return of Around Comics.  And it was glorious.

And with Doctor Octopus apprehended, I think I’ll call it a night.  I want to record Marvel Tales tomorrow morning (Uncanny X-Men!) and the last thing I need is for my allergies to act up.

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Apr 28 2008

The Weekend (4.25 - 4.27)

Published by David under Friends, House, Life, Us

Our weekend was pretty uneventful. It was nice having one where we didn’t have to run hither and yon and could take our time doing it.

Friday night we went to check on our friend Karen, who’s recovering from surgery, and have dinner at her place. Saturday, the three of us drove up to Dutchess so Renee could check out the deals at Plant Depot and so I could fill up the Tucson (gas being a tad cheaper just north of us). We also checked out a Fish Market that sold out of their batch of hard shell crabs right before we got there. I grabbed some salmon steaks which I plan on grilling soon. I got to hang out with Nanuuq in the car while mommy went into the shops. After we returned home, I mowed the lawn which is something that needed to be done. The weather cooperated nicely. Today, we watched No Country For Old Men and The Last Mimzy.

Not a bad weekend and nothing I can really complain about. I did take a few photos of the yard since Renee likes to check on her work. Plus, I have to take some shots of our little Japanese maple that survived the winter. Finally, there are some pictures of a house near us that has some gorgeous landscaping. Unfortunately, you can’t really tell that from these images, but I’ll have the camera with me again the next time we head that way.

UPDATE: I had photos attached to this post but, after closer inspection, I did not like the way they came out. Plus, I spent way too much time fooling around with resizing them.

I should have spent the time working on the show notes for this week’s Marvel Noise.

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Apr 18 2008

Down But Not Out

Published by David under House, Life, Us

And it looks like we’re screwed.  Between my lousy credit score and a late payment (late so we could pay down bills at the recommendation of the underwriters), we were denied.  They also decided to pull our credit report again instead of using the paperwork Shawn had given them.

I’m just so tired.

I had four phone numbers from friends and family given to me this morning, all telling me that “this person is great” or “he can work miracles” and so on.  Calls have been made with more to follow.  So we still have hope (thankfully, it’s free) and we’re not out of the fight yet.  But it would be nice to be able to sleep peacefully again.

To everyone that’s been pulling for us, thinking good thoughts, and sending good vibes, believe you me, they are still doing a world of good.  I can’t wait to write the happy ending.

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Apr 16 2008

It Has To Get Better, Right?

Published by David under Friends, House, Life, Us

To say 2008 came out the gate kicking our asses would be an understatement. Hell, the latter half of our 2007 wasn’t all that great. Sure, there were good times, and laughs, but there was a cloud hanging over us that we still can’t shake.

And it’s related to money. Specifically, the money we’re paying to keep our house. The bank that holds our mortgage is a joke. They refuse to renegotiate as long as you can make your payments. That makes sense, I suppose. They get their money, to hell with the rest of your expenses and credit score. Since before October of last year we knew our payment was going up. So we did the Lending Tree thing. And we had some offers, but nothing concrete came of it. Our debt ratio is too high or we live in an area that we can afford based on our income (our house is one of four on our side of the street that seems to be worth anything - the rest of the community looks like white trash) or there just isn’t a program in place that can help us.

A couple months ago, Shawn called me out of the blue to ‘follow up’ based on information he received from Lending Tree. I’ve never spoken to this man before, nor dealt with his company. In less than 48 hours after a few conversations he had with Renee, we were in a completely different situation. There was actually hope. Paperwork and documents were sent to him and numbers were crunched. He came back to us with a mortgage payment that would actually leave us with a few bucks at the end of each month. It was amazing.

But the underwriters wanted certain things paid off. With money we didn’t have. Because, after all, if we did I don’t think we’d be in the shape we’re in. So many calls to family members were made. And those that could help came through with flying colors. Retirement money has been loaned out (that 1099 I’m getting in January is gonna royally suck) and Peter was robbed to pay Paul. Last week, we were right at the level we needed to be and Shawn’s boss was going to fast track everything and push it along.

And today is the day. The underwriters have given the loan agreement to Shawn’s managers and now we’re waiting. And it’s killing us. It’s one of those ‘hope for the best, anticipate the worst’ scenarios. A few weeks ago Renee was looking into pet friendly apartments. We were starting to think that in a few years, we can end up with something nice if we lost the house to foreclosure. But seriously, considering what we make how is losing our home an option? Is it really easier for a bank to foreclose on a house, with all the paperwork involved, than it is to work something out with the people that live there and have been making payments?

We should have an answer in the next couple hours.

And I wish it was only the house situation we were facing. Because of that, however, the holidays were a very solemn time for us. No decorations were put up (as commented on by our neighbors (think Christmas with the Cranks)) nor were gifts exchanged. Actually, that’s not entirely true. I gave Renee and Meyer Lemon tree and she bought me the Blade Runner collection in the funky briefcase. Nikki was taken from us far, far too early back in February. My grandmother owed the government a shit ton of money because her accountant did not send her a form she needed to sign. My brother is facing some problems at work. Cripes, if we’re being tested I hope the payoff is fucking worth it.

I know we’re not alone. Everyone has problems in some way, shape, or form. We’re not the only ones facing foreclosure (Shawn has a client that calls him daily and the woman is often in tears). We’re not the only ones with money problems. But it’s just so goddamn frustrating.

I’ve accepted the fact that 2008 is the year I do not attend conventions. In the grand scheme of things, that’s a ‘no big whoop’. But what stings in this instance is that it’s the only time I see my friends that are scattered about. But, that’s what email is for, right? I suppose the podcast is a release for me. And before anyone chimes in with “it can’t be as bad as you say if you can buy comics” let me say that we’ve cut back on a lot things. Unfortunately, my work schedule means I can’t work a part time job during the week. But the weekends are a different story and that process has started. But getting back to Marvel Noise, this is one reason I started the Marvel Tales segment. Aside from the fact that I have a lot of comics from the 80s, I’m not buying comic books right now. When I talk about a recent issue it’s because I’ve borrowed the comic or it’s an advance review. There is virtually no cost to me to produce Marvel Noise. And I’m pretty sure it shows. So the reason for the donate button on the Marvel Noise page is to not only make the show better, but also to give me and Renee a little help. Thanks to the wonderful Pat Loika, he has offered his talents to anyone that donates at least five dollars. And t-shirts are being designed for those that want to be stylish after being charitable.  I wrestled with the idea of even asking, but I was told by a few friends that I shouldn’t close this door without checking.  So there ya go.

In any case, this post is something that’s been in the drafting stage for awhile. Today, with an answer looming closer it seemed a good day to finish it.

Christ, this was depressing.

Thanks for reading. I need a drink.

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