Square Root Of 81

     I went to a New Years Eve comedy show and the headliner had a good joke about the square root of 81. A film credit they spoke of when he took the stage was 'Coming to America', starring Eddie Murphy. I haven't seen it in a while. The other two performers were Perkins, and the D.C. native. I liked the food as well as the champagne brought out for the countdown, especially the little smokies and meatballs. I got a hat and a party favor, and it was nice to visit with some of the performers after the show while they were selling merchandise and taking pictures with audience members.
     I needed to laugh after a tirade I had tonight once I found out the UPS facility was closed for the entire day, because I still can't pick up a package. This information ran counter to what was on the website earlier in the week. I left a comment on their Facebook page, saying I had heard 'Can't' three times already and wanted to hear what I still can do. Hard to understand why they will be closed two straight days for the holiday, when I am not aware of the Postal Service doing the same thing. I had a hard time understanding this policy as I worked a full shift today. The first tip-off to something not looking right to me was having a hard time finding a place to park, and then when I was about to walk into the facility I was called over by a security guard who told me the news.

The Cheering Section

    I had a cheering section tonight at the comedy club, first time in a while. I think I enjoyed this set more than most. I got to every joke on my list except one. I did ones about getting a card from an aunt, the doll leg, talking to a cop, the kid and the mail slot, and they don't allow swearing here. It was a good lineup all around. Three of the first four in the 'Ring of honor' were there as D.C. was the MC and of course big dog and Mason City were also there. I had hoped to pick up the package from UPS tonight but there wasn't enough time before the show. I drove about halfway there and then turned around. It was a little tougher since it is really cold tonight and it took a while to get my car warmed up.
     D.C. did ones about Hazelden, detox, a number joke, 10 months sober, rate nausea, rock bottom, and the Japanese embassy. The Hillary Clinton look-alike did ones about how tipping will prevent abortion, plasma and period, Harry Potter game, hey buddy, and working in retail at Mall of America. A comic who has custody of his 2 girls did this joke along with being sloshed at work, being a debt collector,  and Magic Johnson. Big dog did ones about trash and scarecrow, and take it for granted. Dictionary did ones about his cardigan, too much Dominos Pizza, and a gym tour. A comic who went to high school at Breck did one about following them around. Turtle check did ones about going to Chipotle, turning 31, hemorrhoid, and drunk and changed password. Mason City did ones about two Paul Bunyans, city run by pigs, no beer after 10, bag of nickels at bank, and stupid in the cookie jar. Perkins did ones about a librarian, aerospace and film school, Grandma's question, his dad and math  word problems, fruit flash cards, and wait to be towed.   
   At work it was still busy despite the sharp drop in volume on the payoff report. There was still plenty of new titles and of course the letters piled up since I was too busy to do any on Monday. I found out that lunching with the 'Perky girl' will have to wait, something about car shopping with her husband. I was given a can of Campbell's Chunky soup by her that I ate for lunch.    

JIF Whips

     After getting back from the comedy club tonight, I opened another little tub of JIF whips. I have been getting them from the discount table at my neighborhood grocery store. I like it as it is whipped peanut butter and chocolate, especially the peanut butter.
    At the comedy club, the MC did ones about how it just felt right and working construction. Long straw did ones about Target, yogurt, and Baja men. Resistable did ones about what cats eat, plasma, and carpet matching drapes. Locks of love did ones about an 8-day marriage, and her husband searching for car parts. Laundry did the bakery, hooker and prison joke. Pottery barn did ones about valets and snowbirds. Mr. Pibb did one about a pet named Hooch. Bathtub did ones about hidden money in a couch, and a pepper plant. Louisiana did ones about life before cell phones, Neosporin, and tree pollen. Maryland did ones about Amazon, Urkel, his dog, hockey, flop, and Nike. Oklahoma did ones about being bald, and a calculator. Trailer park girl did ones about reindeer, and penguins, and was wearing a Je T'aime shirt (I knew this is French for I love you). Worthington did ones about the tough dad speech, a parrot, and raccoons. Tetris did ones about City Pages, New York City scams, and protests. Show closer I have seen before, visiting from Florida and was married to a Puerto Rican. He did ones about being bankrupt, Goodwill clothes, and Valentines day.   

Bears-Vikings Season Finale

    I went to the Bears-Vikings football game at the University of Minnesota this afternoon, it was the season finale. I woke up early to move my car for the snow ordinance, and when I was up for good- as I went back to bed for a while- it was 10:30am. So I knew this meant chores like the dishes would have to wait until I got back. I arrived on the train before the game started, but it took a while to get through security and when I finally got inside the clock read 9:50 left in the first quarter. There was no score. It was 3-3 at the half and the Vikings went on to win 13-9. The Bears couldn't move the ball, explaining the three field goals. There was an interception return and a long kick return, but both drives stalled. While riding the train after the game I saw a little girl in a stroller who took off her winter hat twice after her mom put it on.
   The Simpsons episode in the evening was about the Navy. After this I switched it over to a football game, Bengals-Steelers, and eventually called my dad. We spoke about what we both did over the holidays and the upcoming bowl games, including the one the Iowa Hawkeyes are in. He spoke of the movies he had seen or wants to see, this includes 'The Interview', but being in southern Iowa he will probably have to travel a little ways to whatever theater is showing it. He also spoke of seeing my favorite movie, 'Good Will Hunting', on TV twice this weekend. I asked for his insight on it, when he gave me the storyline I said 'I know the movie well'. What I wanted was his opinion about it. When I spoke of the scene at the construction site with his good friend he said that was a 1970 Ford pickup. I am not sure if he had seen it since it was at theaters, but I know full well he likes his movies. He had just seen another one starring Robin Williams, 'Night at the museum', this one is on my list. The most recent one I had seen, 'Homesman', he did not know about but it is a limited-release art film. But he does like westerns and this is considered to be a western.

Chicken Strip Basket

    I went to Dairy Queen tonight and ate their chicken strip basket since I had a coupon from the Blizzard Fan Club. When I got there the sign outside had it on sale, no coupon needed. Well I still presented it as it is expiring soon and I mainly go there for the ice cream. I finally went there after posting photos on Facebook, mostly from both of the memorials for Bill Young.
     After the stop at Dairy Queen, I went to see 4 friends do comedy. This was extra murder, school bouncer, Perkins, and a member of The Turkeys (who was tonight's MC).
    The MC did ones about how it is hard to pronounce his name, crash his twin birth, a fake accent, and lots of treats. Others were about a cheap hotel, and Bubba Gump shrimp. He was added to my ring of honor at the wedding in September, along with Oklahoma. Extra murder did ones about carry on legacy, a little stabby, a cardboard 'Eat at Wendy's' sign, grade school in Kentucky, a strip club in Peoria, and antique car horn in bed.
    School bouncer did one about a godfather and an 'Assembly required' bike. Others were about his parents being married for 36 years, check the fridge, Ice Cube, college experiences with Wisconsin girls, his football coach, a Packer player chant, Fox Sports or Fox News?, a 100-year-old woman, and checking the balance when going to Redbox. Perkins did one about aerospace and film school. Others were about crude gift wrapping, hipster Waldo, Dallas buyers club, Dad and word problems, Mom is a teacher, PMS roar, Dad's showers, hunting blow guns, family cruise, South Dakota park wedding, car almost towed, and his lady's cat.

Halls And Tussin

    It appears that I am fine now after the sore throat and coughing problems from earlier in the week. I didn't feel the same need to use the Halls cough drops and the Walgreen store-brand Tussin. Both were used early in the day and that was it.
   I wasn't home all that long in the evening after work. I wanted to get to a comedy show I happened to be performing in, the big dog was headliner. I understand it was a warm-up for recording his CD.
I liked how we did a straight and ham routine, we hadn't done one of these in a while. This was at the end of my set, after I told some funny stories involving us.
   At the comedy club tonight, second show, Tetris did ones about City Pages and Best Buy. Ragu did one about bus drinking. Others were about nervous at movie, Comcast, seeing a therapist, and leaf blower. Fantasia showed off a Batman wallet. He did ones about you can't do that, and girls like jerks. A comic visiting from San Diego, who I met at a wedding in September, did one about affairs. Maryland did ones about his dog, hockey fights, Amazon, and Urkel. Happy meal did some quick interviews, grandpa's advice, get free stuff, and taking back a swear word.
   It took me longer than typical to get home tonight due to the weather, but I am thankful I made it home without incident as I did see a police car on one road. Nearby was a car that looked like it had slid off the road. It was after I got home where I noticed the ice that was under the snow.   

Back At Buca Di Beppo

    I had dinner at Buca Di Beppo, much like I did for Thanksgiving. I found out their holiday dinner couldn't be made smaller than 3 servings, so I ordered some pepperoni pizza instead. I was nursing a sore throat, so I had a hard time swallowing anything for a while. I know well enough to be careful on how much food I order when this is the case. I ate just half of my oatmeal this morning for this reason. I don't know where I left my cough drops, couldn't find them after getting back from the church service. I had no choice but to get some at a place I knew would be open, a Super-America. I ordered tea with lemon as my drink, and I liked how the cough drop worked right away. I had plenty of time to look at the scenery at the restaurant, I recall seeing a photo of Frank Sinatra on the wall, along with one of Sophia Loren in lingerie if I am not mistaken.
  I didn't watch much  TV today aside from the news and Yule Log, which is on now. I liked hearing Johnny Cash's version of 'Hark the herald angels sing'. I did watch Jeopardy as well. Archduke Franz Ferdinand was one of the clues, and it prompted me to look up the story of the assassination on Wikipedia. I recalled learning it as '3 shots rang out in Sarajevo', but there was mention of just two. Unless you also count the bomb that went off before the gunshots, which missed the Archduke and hit another car.

Cake, And Candy Tin

     I put in a full day at work and then saw the security guard while waiting for the bus, first time in a while. He does crochet or latch-hook kits, but not during the winter. There was plenty of goodies waiting for me at the office. I had two pieces of cake, it was the once a month cake for birthdays. There was also a card, candy cane, candy tin, and candy box. I am trying to think of what name to give her, I did attend one service at her church in 2008 and I think she sang in the choir there. The political science guy was his usual self, making a joke about wanting to shoot down Santa's sled. And something about Mr. Hankey from 'South Park', not to be confused with 'Mr. Haney', the huckster from the TV show 'Green Acres'.
   It was hard to find a place to eat my evening meal, a taco place closed early for the holiday so I got a sandwich from a nearby gas station instead. I slept for a little while before going out to find food. Then late in the evening I went to a church service, where I got an orange when turning in the candle as it was a candlelight service. I still like the feeling of melted wax on my fingers. When I got back there were some holiday greetings on Facebook. One was from Morton Salt, the other from the Canadian comic I opened for after we met at a show I attended when back visiting my 'Old haunts' in Chicago-land. I posted something about the service, how the song 'Silent night' makes me think of the big dog since he does a joke about it. And reading the Christmas story reminds me of when Linus recited it in the Charlie Brown Christmas special. I found 'Yule log' on TV but I am listening to this program more than actually watching it. The 'Extra murder' comic does a joke about it, how it is available on Netflix if I am not mistaken.

Ludwig II Of Bavaria

    It was a day off and I went to the post office to pick up packages there. Two were Charlie Brown and Snoopy stamps, the third was a comedy CD. The stamps were sent from foreign countries, Hong Kong and Germany. The other e-bay order currently outstanding is coming from France. I liked how the comedy CD arrived quickly, less than a week after ordering. But it was coming from a nearby state. I liked seeing what was protecting one of the stamp orders, the one from Germany. Looks like it commemorates a famous government building. I did my best to read from context, since I don't know the German language well. It looks like there is also mention of a monarch, Ludwig II. There is mention of something as late as 1918, but Wikipedia states he died in 1886 and was from Bavaria, a section of what is now Germany. The comedy CD was ordered from Amazon, and I did hear from the Wisconsin girl who liked how I posted Amazon reviews of both CDs. She said there will be more soon, I said I am looking forward to it. In addition, it looks like I am getting plenty of junk mail to the P.O. box, addressed to whoever had it before me. If there is a return address I am marking 'Return to sender' on it.
   I went to the comedy club tonight, but the show was called off, not enough people. It was nice to visit with friends for a little while, and I still wanted to finish my drink before I left. I also went to Walgreen and had a photo CD done, will try to find the time to post the photos from both of the Bill Young memorials soon. I also picked up some cough drops as I am ill. It sounded like something bad happened to one of my neighbors today, based on the media coverage. And that's all I've got to say about that.     

We March On

     At the Bill Young memorial tonight, I heard some music near the end, the song was 'We march on'. It seemed appropriate on some level. I got plenty of pictures tonight, just over 20. I didn't have many of this venue, Spring Street Tavern in Minneapolis. Many of them were of those who were sharing stories, and again these were usually comics I didn't have any pictures of previously. I had my turn as well, and I did bring the doll leg as a visual aide. I was also given a Nerf gun for the salute at the end, and it became one of my pictures tonight. I gave out my business card to a few people, since I spoke of the blog. So good or bad I discussed some business there, but I am sure I was not alone in this respect. I didn't know one of those who spoke, he said he wrote for a local publication, reviewing shows. I have read this publication from time to time. My final photo of the night was of 3 candles on the stage, remembering not just Bill but also Gus Lynch and Kate U.       
    I spoke to many people tonight, and I am hoarse as I write. When I left I said I should leave before I lose my voice. But it was nice to see so many friends there. I also got an 'Eat the cake' poster as a souvenir. I noticed how many others did the same, and we labeled them after paying so we wouldn't have to carry them around during the event. They were left on the table where we bought them near the entrance, made it easier to pick them up when leaving.

Motown, The Broadway Play

   I went to see the Motown play at the Orpheum in Minneapolis this afternoon. I stayed on the email list after seeing a Broadway play in 2005- 'Rent'- so I know what plays are still there. Thankful it went on tour, makes it easier to see. I had a seat on the main floor, in the back. I had a good view of not just the stage but also of the sign language interpreters. After a few minutes into the play I knew I needed to pay more attention to the stage. I bought a program there at intermission, along with some Reese's peanut butter cups. As usual the program had good photos in it all around, much like when I got ones at Million Dollar Quartet or the Harlem Globetrotters or the Barnum and Bailey Circus. My favorites likely were some of the bit players, the actors playing Ed Sullivan and Rick James. I had seen the Motown museum on a Detroit visit in 2008, same weekend as the college basketball tournament. So I was familiar with much of the storyline, except probably for a movie about Billie Holliday. I saw the Sun Records museum in Memphis in the same year as Motown's. I think of 'Quartet'- about some of the performers at Sun Records- to be a companion to this play I just saw. Both were independent labels where many famous musicians got started, then signed with other labels.
    I had just enough time to get lunch at a nearby restaurant before the show, using a gift card I had won at a comedy-related event last year. There was live music on the stage that I could see from the bar. First song I heard was 'East bound and down'- from the movie 'Smokey and The Bandit'. Another I found out was called 'Paradise' by John Prine. The hook was about going back to a certain county, down by the green river. Also heard the one about going back to a Texas town, Willie and Waylon and the boys. So of course this was a cover band. I liked the food I ate more than the drink. I had a walleye BLT and sweet potato fries. But the drink left a lot to be desired- tomato juice. It just didn't taste right to me.
   In the evening while watching the Seahawks-Cardinals football game I got to work on sending out Christmas cards, 6 in all to those who had sent them to me.

Lost In Translation Movie

   I watched my DVD copy of the movie 'Lost In Translation' tonight. I bought it at the Blockbuster Video liquidation sale last year. At the outset all I knew was the premise of the Bill Murray character being in Japan to film a commercial. It is a good story, worth seeing. I liked the part about his character forming a friendship with another American while there. Haven't been to Japan yet myself, but my college roommate has twice, since he loves Japanese culture.
   I also went to a basketball game at Roosevelt High School in Minneapolis in the afternoon, I do mentoring at this school through my employer. Roosevelt won big against St. Croix prep, 66-34. It was 32-20 at the half, and Roosevelt scored the first 17 points of the game. I did check the program and noticed the St. Croix players were shorter, so this can make a big difference.
    Another thing I liked getting done before leaving for the basketball game was getting more comedy souvenirs into sheet protectors. This was mainly note cards from one club in particular in my earlier days in comedy, 2009. Based on what I could read from my handwriting, some of those were still familiar to me. Naturally I only wanted them in there if one side was blank. This was true on eight of them. This did leave three others, so I will not include them there yet but they were moved out of a tin I hadn't looked at in a while to an envelope which has plenty of comedy souvenirs in it.

What's Up, 4 Non-Blondes

     I heard the song 'What's Up' by 4 Non-Blondes tonight while driving to the comedy club. So I finally got the scream in that I had wanted. It is even in the lyrics- 'Scream at the top of my lungs'. I know this song is from 20 years ago, but I like all kinds of music.
     Rut-roh did ones about more realistic dreams, friends with benefits, meeting somebody on Tinder, and re-try the handshake. I think at laughed too early at one joke. Perkins did ones about mat word problems about his dad, wearing the same sweater, a Dallas Buyers Club reference, finding Under Armour, and swiping donuts/swiping right. The preschool teacher did ones about a basset hound crying, could use a musket, kid size rings, paper cranes, a lottery billboard saying 'what's your dream?', and close to touching a cloud. The bartender did ones about tater tots, is it a gay bar?, starving homeless people and other Facebook things, and pet shopping at the animal shelter. International Falls did ones about bathrooms of the world, a very short cop, a bathtub full of blood as art, organ donor on license, mom is a hypochondriac, and happy mom's day. The Chicago visitor did ones about dad having a pet spider monkey, grocery store parking lot, Michael Jackson and Ross from 'Friends', her date owns a condo, after dating one with credit problems, snuggle with a stuffed animal, and dumped by text. Fantasia was wearing a Joker from 'Batman' shirt, and did ones about feminism, Israel, and I told him to put me onstage since he talked to me a lot during the set. Tetris did ones about take those pants off, background of Best Buy ad, who's the nerd now?, you will just have to fight him, the Mall of America protest, and find another Gap. 'Extra murder' did ones about a suicide at Mall of America, deep fried cookie dough, sex offender lottery winner, living next to Disney World, Yule Log on Netflix, taking his wife to the airport, and marriage is a game. Red-faced comic did ones about the manager at work playing Coldplay, get a gut!, tattoos, and 12/13 CDs. Three times three did ones about a hamster death, his grandparents, not teaching cursive, earth's rotation, you can be 10 things, and options at the restaurant. Bathtub did ones about gladiators in Rome, his wife bought a pepper plant, living off the grid, make squirrels angry, befriend a bear cub, going to Mars, and famous speeches. A comic I hadn't seen much lately did ones about listening to public radio, Magic Johnson, and raising 2 little girls. He is a debt collector, and somebody drinks at work. Apron did ones about donating plasma, and Lana Del Rey. Happy meal was wearing a Primus shirt. He did ones about his grandpa's advice, getting free stuff after a friend passed, naked and afraid on the Discovery Channel, what should we bring to the island?, burn down the rain forest, and Star Trek on the BBC.

Shoreview Community Center

    I went to the Shoreview Community Center tonight to honor the late Bill Young. I got 13 pictures of the event. It was mostly before and after the ceremony. I was next to Worthington and he advised me against doing any during the ceremony. So I waited until we did the Nerf gun salute. Before this I got two photos at the entrance to the community center, of the electronic schedule board which mentioned the event and of the Linus statue next to it. I had been here before to find this statue. Next two are of the cakes, they had Star Wars figurines on them. Then there are some pictures on an easel, and wooden letters spelling out 'Bill'. I was amazed at all of the items on the table, various souvenirs from his comedy career. I recognized some of them, like the $4.99 show CD and the Fringe Festival card from this year's New Ulm play. There was also a poster of a show he did at Triple Rock Social Club. I did plenty of photos from the Nerf gun salute, but I am keeping just 2. Most of the others were too dark or too far away. We also have an 'Eat the cake' sign next to the smaller cake. Then we have individual pieces of cake on paper plates, Nerf guns in a box, and flowers. Some shared stories but I did not, mine would have paled in comparison to those I heard. I nearly lost it when some were getting choked up trying to tell their stories, this included his ex-wife's young son. I was able to say hi to so many people there, most everybody I knew from the comedy circuit was there. During the ceremony we held hands and 'Lean on me' was played, then eventually we clapped during one part of the song. When I was driving home I tried to find the right song for the moment but it was hard to find, aside from maybe 'Basket Case' by Green Day. So I decided to shut off my radio after a while. When I got home I found two songs on Youtube, 'The Story' by Brandi Carlile, and 'Doll Parts' by Hole, but I really didn't get out the scream I had wanted. Probably would have been easier in the car. I am thankful for many of the souvenirs I acquired at this event, Mason City gave me one of the Nerf gun darts. I also have a pin that looks like his character from the New Ulm play, a bumper sticker with his blog name, and two buttons with the blog name. I got his business card as well, and can't forget the framed photo of Bill with Gus Lynch. This was given by the wife of the boss-man. I was pleased to see all three photos I shared were printed and shown there. Two were from July's Fringe Festival fundraiser, the other from a wedding in September.           
     I did have another dental appointment in the afternoon for cavity fillings. I am thankful it didn't cause any inconvenience with the event tonight. And I listened to one of the comedy CDs that arrived recently from the Amazon order. I hope to find the time to listen to the other soon and then share my thoughts with the performer.

Boston Market

   We had a catered lunch at my workplace today, from Boston Market. I don't think I had eaten at one in a while. I know this chain had filed for bankruptcy and was bought my McDonald's, but the 'Golden Arches' has since sold them. Really liked the potatoes. When I have eaten there before I liked
the full meal available- besides the potatoes and chicken there was also salad, green beans, and cornbread. This was held in our main conference room, and the managers at first wondered where I was. I don't like waiting in line for things, and saw no need to be there right away. Found out all I really missed out on was being served by the managers, and I am fine with serving myself.
   There was a dental appointment after work, and then it was straight to the comedy club. Michigan was MC, he did ones about a Yelp review, bowling, a 2-dude wedding, a man harbor, and throwing away a speeding ticket. Laundry did ones about drinking games, dog whistles, bakery prison and hookers, and the polar bear plunge. Perkins did ones about aerospace and film school, his grandma, wearing the same sweater, Dallas Buyers Club, UTIs, his mom's old bed, and heroin in a diaper. Turtle Check did ones about Clint Eastwood and Batman, a lawyer in a whorehouse, dating himself, and visiting a shooting range. Jersey video did ones about wearing glasses, eat and pass out, and duck hunting. Godmother did ones about a dog park fee, her husband giving her skis, matching sweaters, jabbed in the thigh, and the dysfunctional family tour. Conga line did ones about an air freshener at the car wash, lost and found at Mall of America, a dog with 3 legs, and detachable arms. The Wisconsin couple was there, the guy did ones about pine tree and jump ropes, erectile dysfunction commercials, and a 'lot like Cuba'. The girl did ones about snow blowing, a pig heart, weasel on elbow, and how to improve county fairs. The bartender did ones about Facebook postings, and a patron ordering tater tots. The D.C. native did ones about vodka and olives, 10 months sober, psych ward detox, Japanese Embassy, a dumb French word, it's the tits, Tinder, hotels dot-com, Magic Johnson and Dallas Buyers Club, and dating Taylor Swift.

tater tots,


the d.c. native was the show closer.   

Chatterbox Pub

   I performed at Chatterbox Pub in St. Paul tonight, I liked seeing their 'Wait to be seated' sign when lit up. The stage was small but it worked fine.
   International Falls did ones about casual sex, street harassed, dog rescue, and rabies. Blind Side did ones about elf on a shelf, and horny but no condom. He learned from porn, and his lady has a Robert DeNiro impression. The nurse's aide did ones about a haircut, borderline commitment issues, men with goals, laundry, bus conversations, and a retirement plan. Conga line did ones about an air freshener, lost and found at the Mall of America, liking Beyoncé- beautiful feminists, asking why horse-boys?, and science time. Pizza philosopher did ones about a toddler on a delivery, protesters at Planned Parenthood, Lunchables, and women like parks. Michigan did ones about throwing away a speeding ticket, and his lady throwing dog-do. Philadelphia did ones about pay for stay at home moms, red stripe on a tree, time to take a shower, and a gay pride parade. Bus fare did ones about ow he doesn't care about horses, a sandwich top, and Garfield hating Mondays. Morton Salt did one about going to Edina. Long straw did ones about breakups, Whole Foods, a mannequin, and a Cubs urn. The D.C. native did ones about being kicked out of a sober house, friends are important, watching The Godfather, 10 months sober, the phony guy on Facebook, the jokes that got away at rock-bottom, and the Japanese embassy. The crow did ones about being high after bereavement, tater tots and fries, and the movie 'Something About Mary'. Rut-roh did ones about ointment, watching 'Apollo 13', friends with benefits, chess with Bob Seger, a trombone impression, Henny Youngman, and a relevant anecdote. A thin young man, a high-energy comic, did ones about 'reason for the season', worshipping Mariah Carey, an air quality advisory, journalism school, and a relationship that had ended. A comic who has been to Greece did ones about a walk-in closet, birth canal, wood chips, and a how-to book for con-men.

Doll Parts, Hole

   After the comedy show tonight, I found music to listen to at Youtube. This included 'Doll parts' by Hole. Besides the line 'Someday you will ache like I ache', I really like the theme of angst throughout the song. The Wikipedia page did say frontwoman Courtney Love wrote the song about Nirvana frontman Kurt Cobain, her husband. It is proving to be helpful to listen to at this time of loss in the comedy community. I don't have the album it is on, but I have a later album the band did, 'Celebrity skin'. I generally liked the songs on the later album more, and I had a college roommate tell me the likely reason why. I like Smashing Pumpkins, and their frontman, Billy Corgan, helped write many of the songs on it. This included the title song as well as 'Awful' (the song is anything but) and 'Malibu'. 
   At the comedy club tonight I did get stagetime, I was number 6 in the lineup. Many of the jokes were new and worked well. I changed one of them and it got more laughs, it was about the coworker that wanted to date me but I turned down the offer. I also did one about the Christmas card that had just arrived. I liked how I took the time to look at it before leaving for the club. I spoke with a man who said he was interested in trying comedy, and I was willing to give some advice about the craft.
   The MC did ones about 'it just felt right' and AARP. A comic who also has a rap alter ego did fake movie reviews. Rut-roh did one about Bob Seger. The rapper comic did one about buying a motorcycle. IED/IUD did one about sweatpants and crocs. I am unable to read my notes about Mr. Pibb. Laundry did one about roundabouts. The D.C. native did ones about Tinder, and hotels dot-com. School bouncer did ones about single-sex, hoodies, and the movie 'Blind Side'. Worthington did ones about a barbed wire tattoo man, and a parrot. Three times three did ones about 'wall-are-us', a
Coke and Pepsi poll, and a bouncy castle. The opera singer did one about cell phones, and as I recall was wearing a shirt with 2 wolverines on it. Maryland did ones about shopping on Amazon, Urkel, a dog on the patio, hockey fights, and Whole Foods. Perkins did ones about his mom's old bed, Tinder apps, aerospace and film, his grandma, somebody wearing the same sweater, and a reference to the movie 'Dallas Buyers Club'. The 'Extra murder' comic did ones about Yule Log, the 3 wise men, the little drummer boy, food trucks, donut burgers, lost keys, and a nativity scene. Bathtub comic did ones about a lava lamp, a bee costume for the dog, goggles, and Universal Studios. A visitor from Chicago that knows 'extra murder' did ones about Hobby Lobby, birth control, Chick-fil-A, crush its soul, and the pay gap. Louisiana was show closer, and did ones about butterfly kisses, Chipotle, Neosporin, and tree reproduction.

Laugh Rock RIP, After Homesman Movie

    I did two events today. Before midday I went to see the movie 'Homesman' in Roseville. This may not have been the best movie for me to see after losing two comedy comrades so recently. I knew it was a western, Tommy Lee Jones is in it playing a drifter helping the Hilary Swank character with taking three women back across the river to Iowa. I didn't know about the three women being mentally ill. So some scenes were harder to watch when I know mental health is something that many of us in the comedy community struggle with. There were some funny scenes in it, which helped some. And of course the music helped too. Good cast in it, including John Lithgow as a preacher along with James Spader and Meryl Streep in small roles. Notable was how I couldn't leave the theater at first when it was over, an employee already had the barrier up saying it was being cleaned. I like seeing the closing credits to see what music was performed and where the movie was filmed (in New Mexico, and Georgia). I was told 'Sorry' and was let out. Then I walked around the mall and eventually went to the food court to have some sushi, a California roll. It was the first time I had eaten sushi in a while.
   I did debate a little on if I should even write about the movie I saw today, when I know this blog is read a lot in the comedy community. Especially when I went to the Turf Club in St. Paul for the Laugh, Rock, RIP event honoring the late Gus Lynch. I signed up to share a story about Gus, and went onstage near the end. I said I didn't want to follow his wife, saying it would be a tough act to follow. I was on after his mom, another tough act to follow, but I did acknowledge this. I spoke of how he made some comments on a photo I posted on Facebook, then said he was just joshing me. I went on to say that I would have liked knowing him better, but his gruff and sometimes humbling presence and persona was hard for me to get past. But he is big dog's friend, and I knew he needed to be given a chance. I am aware of how I may be better known for documenting comedy than performing it, but I do like documenting it through my writing as well as photography. I was willing to write about Gus as I knew he was good at his craft, including the 'It's all bananas' joke which led to the nickname he was given here- self checkout. When I left the stage I had many people say they liked what I had to say. I liked knowing I helped in some way. The place was packed, I lost count of how many comedian friends I spoke with there. Some people I didn't expect to see there, since they now live out of state, but I liked seeing them just as much as anyone else. It was proof of how this event meant a lot to many.
    I am thankful I got more batteries before leaving for the event, as I did end up taking more pictures than typical for most days. There are 28, and I intend to put them in their own Facebook album. I only have 3 pictures of what was posted on walls in the funeral home, it seemed the most appropriate. I plan on including them in the album. When I have the time these will be posted, most likely in 2 days when I have a day off. Some from tonight were of the venue itself and not the event. I got a look at the basement part, it is called the 'Clown Lounge' and there was art on the wall of clowns. Eight of my pictures were from there, including one of famous clowns like Krusty from The Simpsons, Ronald McDonald, Bozo, and Bush-43. I hope I don't cause any jealousy from not getting pictures of everybody who shared stories tonight, it was mostly those I didn't have pictures of yet. And I usually knew them from doing comedy, with two main exceptions. This would be the musicians, along with
family- his wife, and parents. I had been there before for comedy and karaoke, and my first photo of the night was the dry erase board outside with mention of the event. Three of the final four were outside, I hadn't eaten so I told myself to get to the nearby McDonald's where I had a Filet-o-fish and fries. I ate them just outside the front door of the club. My final photo was big dog and the red-faced comic sharing the stage while telling jokes. I had pictures of both before, but they were separate pictures and I couldn't ignore what would be a great image to end my night there with. Normally I have my car radio on while driving, but after this event I left it off as I wanted to let the event speak for itself and avoid the chance of ruining it with the wrong kind of music or commercial.

Gilbert Gottfried

    I laughed a lot at a comedy show tonight in New Hope, Gilbert Gottfried was headliner. I knew the openers- MC was the Ben Franklin look-alike and the feature was the big dog. I was next to the big dog's wife while we both waited to get into the show. I shared how it has been tough to deal with the loss of two comedy comrades in the past two weeks. I liked getting a shout-out from the MC when he asked if anyone from Iowa was in the crowd. It was tough to see both him and the feature deal with a heckler, but I liked what the big dog did. He kept trying until he succeeded in tipping over their 'Fish tank' drink. He even took a poll at one point asking the crowd if we wanted them to stay, most said 'No'. From the two I knew, most of their jokes were familiar, but I still liked hearing them.
   With others I shared some memories of Gilbert Gottfried. Topping the list was seeing the movie 'Beverly Hills Cop 2', he had a small role in it. I got into it with my big sister as chaperone even though it was R-rated. He did jokes about Japan, midgets, and being Jewish. One of the jokes about Christ and the Bible reminded me of Lenny Bruce.
    I had to acknowledge on Facebook to friends how I had struggled with the passing of Bill Young as I knew him fairly well. But going to this show tonight helped out a lot. I love driving my car, and it allows another indulgence- listening to music on my car radio. Funny, isn't it? Wasn't good at driving or public speaking at first, but now I do both as I like being in control. And I listened to 'Yellow Ledbetter' by Pearl Jam, at times screaming while singing along with it. But as I said to the Yemen native before, sometimes you just need to scream. I needed to remind myself I have the coping mechanisms- writing, comedy, and music. Mason City helped out greatly by posting a link to the song 'Doll parts' by Hole after mention of the doll leg as a comedy souvenir. I liked the line in it about 'Someday you will ache like I ache'. And the album name fits, 'Live through this'.
    I willingly take on the role of being like Linus from 'Peanuts', being the loyal friend. But I am not a machine even though I usually tell myself to 'Shake it off, be brave, don't let it bother you' as this is how I was taught. We all struggle at times. I know I will be fine as long as I don't lose another comedy comrade for a while.
   In the early afternoon I went to the post office and picked up my first two items from the PO box. One was an E-bay order, the Yellowstone Park booklet with an introduction by Emerson Hough. So it seems appropriate that I am wearing my Emerson Hough hoodie as I am writing these words. Under it is a New Ulm shirt, also appropriate in memory of Bill Young as he did the play about this city. The other item was a friend's comedy CD, ordered from amazon, one of two by the Wisconsin girl. I think I may wait until both have arrived to listen to them.

Bill Young

     I got home from work and saw an email announcing Bill Young had passed, a colleague in the comedy circuit. It is tough to hear so quickly after Gus Lynch had passed. I knew Bill fairly well, more so than Gus. This is why I felt like I had an ashen face after seeing the news.
   The earliest memories likely are from when he got married in 2010. I said it was the most fun I ever had at a wedding, and I loved the concept of a 'Facebook wedding'- inviting people this way as it saved money from not having to send invites in the mail- to most people anyway. I played my harmonica there after the ceremony. There was at least one other event related to it, a roast at a comedy club.
   The next memory would be when we acted together in 2012. It was a sketch where I wore a wig and said I was allergic to bald people. I got what is still the weirdest souvenir after this show, but not from him. It was a doll leg. I was told the venue was being renovated and it meant getting rid of a lot of things. I gladly accepted it as I wanted a tangible reminder of a notable gig. I am still wondering what happened to the rest of the doll, because it is odd that all I got was ONE LEG.
   I have three pictures of Bill. One is from a wedding in September where he was a 'Brides-men' so he walked down the aisle with another man, also a comedian. The other two were from his Fringe Festival fundraiser in July. One is the 'Ring of honor' photo- he is number 24. I attended two of his shows at this festival- this year's about New Ulm (a city I love to visit) and last year's about dick and fart jokes. I also got the '$4.99 show' CD there as I started asking my friends for their CDs.
   He sure was talented as a comedian, as he was given the nickname 'Roller grill' after his joke about eating at Super-America. I laughed at it even though I eat there once a week on the way to the comedy club. Another memory from the September wedding was hearing him talk about galaxies while looking at the night sky. I said it sounded like what one said while high. He had a more positive story of how he got into comedy, compared to mine. I say it was due to 2008 being a year of '2 funerals and a wedding'. His was because they needed a man to dance around in a bikini.
   At the comedy club tonight, we did start off the show with a photo on the stage and I was in the front row. I did perform as well, I was third. Before the show I heard some live music in another part of the venue, it was Leonard Cohen's 'Hallelujah'. After the show while driving home I heard on my car radio two helpful songs: 'Today' by Smashing Pumpkins, and 'Don't dream it's over' by Crowded House. At this point and time happy music doesn't do it for me.
    Also at the comedy club, Laundry did ones about drinking games and a phony Siri. International Falls did ones about a baby pic on Facebook, eating placenta, dog rescue, bathrooms of the world, and giving up casual sex. Dictionary did ones about drunk jobs, Domino's Pizza, carbs and cheese, and phones in the locker room. Tortoise and hare did a number joke, a Men in Black reference, detective work, anti-Kit Kat, and shopping at the Gap. Rut-roh did ones about ointment, an Apollo 13 reference, an Applebee's date, Smash Mouth, chess with Bob Seger, and vegan crack. Bus fare did ones about small talk, snow and bees, sandwich advice, and doesn't care about horses. Long straw did ones about 3 kids in a suit, message boards, playing house, as well as Target and Whole Foods. Fantasia did jokes while standing on chairs. He did ones about Jim Belushi, and how he doesn't like Gumby. Hillary Clinton look-alike did ones about being a former thunder thighs, Weight Watchers in 7th grade, female fight club, turn into a porno, a Brazil wax, and a Jimmy John's sub. One comic sang his set. Mr. Pibb did ones about our dog Hooch, tap on shoulder, a red toothbrush, and crossing the street. Perkins did ones about an engineer in film school, at Turkey Day. Others were about eating a whole pie, and a hipster Waldo. Ragu did ones about Riddler on the Roof, energy drinks, Eminem songs, and a leaf blower guy. Apron did ones about a Tinder profile, a con artist, and spaghetti delivery. A comic who visited Greece did ones about a how-to con artist book, the band Styx, a gym-related bumper sticker, and fish noodling. 'extra murder' did ones about a nativity scene, the Yule Log show, 3 wise men, and the Little Drummer Boy. Happy Meal did ones about hurt tummy muscles, his grandpa's advice, a get out of jail free card, a gift that keeps on giving, and Andrew Jackson.          

Funeral Home in Shoreview

   This evening I went to Shoreview for the visitation for the late Gus Lynch. I found out this funeral home, Holcomb Henry Boom Purcell, is near the library. I did see some friends there, two were leaving when I arrived. Another arrived as I was leaving. I could tell that one comic looked sad so I said 'I am here if you need me'. Then I was told what had happened was the memories of doing comedy with Gus were flooding back. I found two different kinds of cards there, one was for the memorial service and the other for the visitation. The memorial, which I did not attend, appears to have had the Lord's Prayer and an Irish blessing in it. The biography does mention the 'It is all
bananas' joke' that led to his nickname being self checkout.
   In the afternoon I went to be in the studio audience at Twin City Live, an annual visit. We got a bag of free items, including a headband, and a CD of Christmas music since a choir was performing. I also got a chair massage like some others did.
   After I got back from Shoreview I watched a movie I had just picked up, 'Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind', starring Jim Carrey. It was sad and disturbing but also helpful to me. It deals with relationships and the breakups as well. I am thankful for Grizzly Adams telling me about it, as some had said I spoke too much about my relationship after it had ended. I liked one sentiment in it, an implied 'Remember the positive' from the Jim Carrey character. I have said this before about going back to visit a town I once lived in.
   Before leaving for Twin City Live I spent plenty of time getting printed online articles into sheet protectors and then binders. I decided to double up some of them to save space. Some I really liked seeing again like the reminders of comedy gigs, or letters to the editor I had written.  

Chimes At Hospital

   Tonight at the comedy club, one of the comics performing was Conga line. She did one about chimes at the hospital. Others were about working lost and found at a mall, why not a side vent?, mittens from Grandma, a puppy was in it, and the Chucky Cheese bear. The show closer was somebody I had heard about but hadn't seen before to the best of my knowledge. He had a tattoo on one arm but I couldn't read what it was. I introduced myself after the show and noticed he had a smaller tattoo as well, saying 'Live sober' near the wrist. He did ones about being a waiter, Episcopal communion, 2 girls who narc on themselves, 2 milk minimum, a vasectomy, and a boat in the desert.
I thought it was funny when software developer greeted guests by calling them 'Kids'. He also did jokes about 4 chambers, take care of the bear, and tequila and a compliment. I spoke with somebody for a while who knew me but I didn't know well. I am fine with giving advice to new comics, things like don't go over your time and network and have fun with it. The MC had been in Australia. Happy meal did one about his grandpa's advice, and a 'get out of everything free' card. Others were about scissors on a tie, and an STD as a gift. The godmother did ones about a bucket list, Globe University, Kellogg and Post cereals, and bad Christmas gifts. Others were about the Up and Up Target brand, save the date magnets, yoga at church, and JV landscaping. 'Extra murder' did ones about his wife losing keys, his sister's appointment, wives testifying, Yule Log, 3 wise men, and the Little Drummer Boy. The ex-cop did ones about sleep apnea, getting divorced, and kids artwork. Shoe warehouse did ones about giving bus directions, and Lamaze class. University accountant did ones about a surfing photo, Pedal Pub, chicken wings, German chocolate cake, fruit at an office party, carded at a library, and presidential libraries.
    At work I had to call the 'Not much' help desk in the afternoon for a password reset before being able to do the letters I am in charge of. I didn't like how it took a total of 20 minutes, but half of it was just waiting for a technician to respond. I stayed 30 minutes after my normal leave time to see things were caught up as I am out of the office again on Thursday. As I was waiting for the bus home somebody showed me a note saying they were a deaf mute and wanted help, but I told them I don't know sign language.
   I placed two more E-bay orders after the show, for the 'North of 36' movie magnet and for French promo cards advertising the movie 'Up in the Air'. Both comedy CDs I had just ordered a day earlier on Amazon are already listed as shipped. I saw a letter to the editor in my hometown's paper. It suggested having a festival called 'Maytag Days' to celebrate the departed company's history. I also liked seeing the little Nestle Crunch bars near the guard station again, as I noticed some had Snoopy on the wrapper. So I claimed another wrapper as a souvenir besides the one with Charlie Brown.   

CD Baby Website

     I had the day off from work and decided to place another order on Amazon, my first since April. It was for two comedy CDs. I found out one of them was produced by CD Baby, a website I am not familiar with at all. There was a Wikipedia page that I found though. It mentions how over 300,000 artists sell on this site and over 400,000 albums are available. My guess is most of them are music, but I am more interested in comedy CDs. When I tried to narrow the search by entering comedy, I still got 200 listings and a few more names I recognized from the Twin City comedy clubs. Even if I don't see them often, I knew the names. One of them I know as the comic who reads short jokes from 3 x 5 cards, I think it is really effective and have said so when I have had the chance. When I posted news of the Amazon order on Facebook I got plenty of likes to it, as well as comments from the comics saying thank you, the Wisconsin couple. Five items were ordered on Amazon previously, four this year. I started ordering there after getting gift cards for answering Enterprise Rent-a-car surveys. So I haven't had to pay much on the orders, for today's order the final total was $3. There is $10 left in gift cards, it will get used soon enough. It's just a question of what I order with it. While on Amazon I decided to update my account, it meant changing the shipping address to the PO box. And I reviewed three more items, two were orders from April, the 'Up in the Air' soundtrack and novel. The third item wasn't ordered there, but a comedian friend asked me to review his CD after I got it in person. Most of them have been acquired this way. I currently have 14 comedy CDs done by friends, 11 are from the Stand-up Records label. I have a few more ideas for other comedy CDs to acquire, but these would be famous people and hopefully Cheapo will have them when I next go see a movie at the nearby Lagoon theater. This includes Robin Williams, George Carlin, Steve Martin, and Rodney Dangerfield. I know there are some comedy CDs at this store, but not many. Of course I already have Bob Newhart, Bill Cosby, Sam Kinison, and Denis Leary.
   I had a knock on the door in the afternoon, the visitor spoke of liking the bumper stickers I had taped on the wall, I said they were my first E-bay orders. This was while I was watching the DVD that was the companion to the Pink 'Greatest hits' CD. It was while her song 'Dear Mr. President' was playing. This was also a day of picking things up. After getting a slice of pizza at Super-America, I went to Walgreen and bought some razors. Also bought in this visit was sheet protectors and holiday-themed Snoopy socks. In the evening after the comedy show ended I went to a nearby bookstore and got a book of mostly Snoopy cartoons. Inside the back cover was a poster about the 'Charlie Brown and Snoopy' characters. Before the visitor arrived, I checked E-bay and it said one order had arrived. So I checked the mail and the Maytag plant postcard was there. It leaves the other four orders, which will go to the PO box. I had hoped to place my Iowa Hawkeye bowl game order but it appears to be too soon. There is not much available yet since the bowl game they play in, and the opponent, was just announced over the weekend. I plan on getting a button and shirt like previous years.  
     At the comedy club tonight, school bouncer was MC. He did ones about the 100-year-old woman, is that how insurance works?, fixing problems at school, and a kid in a field with invisible friends. Ding Dong did one about being in jail and away from family due to DWI. Another was about being trapped in a cement bunker bathroom. Bus fare did ones about don't poop in this bar, the weather is either cold or bees, and folksy sandwich talk. Others were about a dead horse, celebrating his first Christmas, and being proud instead of a walk of shame. Michigan did ones about being super Irish, and the Notre Dame logo. His dad doesn't know what he does, he is old. A reference was made to the show 'Catch a Predator', and his dad's 8 Facebook friends. I got a shout-out about the Iowa cornfield joke. He moved to Chicago and was an office temp. He was also a dog walker. He walked into a ladies room, and moved into a furnished apartment. Another was about a thigh gap. He attended a 2-dude wedding, others were about a Madonna cover band, Elton John and Liberace, and a man harbor. Mason City advised me not to talk while Taylor Swift was on screen during the Vicky's Secret fashion show.

Movie Magnets

     I probably don't write about Emerson Hough often enough, my inspiration as a writer. But I was looking through E-bay listings tonight and found one for a magnet of the movie 'North of 36' from 1924, based on his book. I appear to have just one movie magnet on my refrigerator, for 'Breakfast at Tiffany's'.
    Tonight at the comedy club I recognized nearly every name on the list. The MC did ones about a dic-pic and working in construction. Blind Side performed but I can't read my notes. Tortoise and hare did ones about a cemetery hoarder, the actor known as the Rock, and Chicken Kiev. The bartender did ones about the movie 'Nebraska', a parking space, coupon books, yelp reviews, and tater tots. The crow did one about Rock Bottom Brewery. Mr. Pibb did ones about not ordering cheesecake, judges, movie sequels, and a poking IUD. Turtle check did ones about a gun through the mail, and grandpa's advice, and I got a shout-out from this comic. Fantasia did ones about locked keys in a car, lock picking school, and a school suspension. Bus fare did ones about being uncomfortable with hands, don't poop in this bar, Minnesota weather including bees, a sandwich problem, and a dead horse. Laundry did one about finding a tooth. University accountant did ones about presidential libraries, brownie day, bringing fruit, and TIVO. School bouncer did ones about ice cream and nachos, a thug hat, throwback Thursday, a kid in a field, and the movie 'Green Mile'. Bathtub did ones about a serial killer trophy, snapping turtles, toilet paper, and a gladiator fan club. Tetris did ones about Spotify, Windows 95, stress eating, and Cub Foods.  The sub teacher did ones about no fit A.D., his lady at MNDOT, and an extreme book club. Louisiana did ones about Neosporin, the parking lot mentality, and drug dogs. The fever comic was show closer, he did ones about having SAD, 'get in the car', being kind of horny, and deer suicide.

Babes In Toyland Play

   I saw a play this afternoon, 'Babes In Toyland', at a middle school in Little Canada. It was from Rosetown Playhouse, I am not aware of them having their own venue for theater. I have also seen their plays at Como Park in St. Paul. I found the play within a play and checking the program to be annoying. I am hopeful to enjoy one of the movie versions, or the music group, even more. I did research what movie versions are available on video, and at a library I discovered the 1961 movie was checked out. So I will have to keep and eye peeled as to when it returns. This would be a Disney movie starring Ray Bolger, Annette Funicello and Tommy Sands. An earlier version is from 1934, starring Laurel and Hardy. The original version is an operetta from 1903 by Victor Herbert. I liked reading the Wikipedia page about it, especially when references were made to 'Wizard of Oz', as the play was done shortly after the success of 'Oz' and some of the same key players were in both. There were later movie versions, one was made for TV from 1986 and another was animated, from 1997. These do not appear to be as famous or popular as the others. I recall a visit to Pittsburgh in 2002 where I saw a historical marker in the downtown area about Victor Herbert that mentions the play. It was next to one about musician Stephen Foster. I liked how there were plenty of markers in Philadelphia as well, but Pennsylvania has a history rivaled by few.
    At Cheapo Records they had 2 CDs by the band of the same name, but not the one I wanted, called
'Fontanelle'. There are some other locations I can check, as the saying goes 'selection varies by store'.
I nearly got hit by a car while taking a walk tonight. When they stopped at the last second I decided to go behind them. 

Devil Is All Around, Shovels And Rope

   While errand running I heard a song on my car radio on 89.3, 'Devil is all around' by Shovels and Rope. I am not that religious but sometimes I like hearing religious music. At first I wondered if it was by Lucinda Williams, who does have a song that mentions 'God' in the title. I do not know this music act well, this must be a fairly new act. The Youtube video depicts a man and woman. I understand the desperation is the theme of the song, this makes it more relatable. This is evident in lyrics like 'crawling on the ground on hands and knees with an apple in your mouth'. This is followed by 'how far you will go to make your peace with God'. The next notable line reminds me of Brandi Carlile, 'nobody knows it like you do'. It sounded like one of Brandi's lines from 'The Story'. And of course the desperation theme is shown in 'shell of a man I once was' and 'if I find forgiveness'.
    I ate at Applebee's in the afternoon, and thought of Gus's joke about it. I went to a comedy show in the evening. Perkins and Maryland were performing. It was great to see the school bouncer as well. I often introduce myself as being in their 'entourage' as I want them to introduce me to who they know. It was great to hear 'hi' from six women in unison when this happened. The headliner did some jokes I liked about relationships, and he spells his name the same way the 'Family Circus' cartoonist did.

Helped With Two Trees

   At work I helped with setting up 2 trees as part of the holiday decorations. One of them collapsed on me after I moved it to get the cotton fake snow mat down under the base. I needed a few minutes to get it back together.
   In the evening I went to a bowling alley for another singles event through Match dot-com. Pizza was all right, bowled 2 games, a 75 and 101. Needed a spare in the 10th frame to get there.
   I was the winning bidder on a postcard of the Maytag plant that was listed on E-bay, it was my first order in months. I will probably get a few more items soon.
   I went straight to the comedy club after the bowling event, much like in October. Michigan did one about a bowling coupon. Software developer did ones about shaving a beard but still has a mustache. He also bought a pickup truck and a vanity plate. His heart has 4 chambers. Fantasia did ones about being right on time, and getting an I-Pad or finding it. In the shout-out to me he said I wish my dad had said that. I'm here all the time and you know me was what I said. The other was about locked keys in car, and lock picking school. Tortoise and hare did ones about seamless transitions, and the actor known as 'The Rock'. He has a passion for detective work, and there was a 'Men in Black' reference. Others were about using the baby needle, and a butterfly needle, and a cemetery as a hoarder. Laundry did ones about not liking drinking games, more phony than Siri, outdated sayings, and roundabouts. International Falls did ones about dog rescue, police dog poem, and raccoon rescue. Others were about giving up casual sex, spooning under bushes, touching hair in a porta pottie, street harasser, and a bathrooms of the world book. Mr. Pibb did ones about being tapped on the shoulder, and buying fish (used). Ragu did ones about movies preventing suicide, saving up for a gun, Riddler on the Roof, bus drinking and Seagram's, Call of Duty, Two Chains rap concert, and career options for older rappers. There was a new comic, age 18, wearing an Oakland A's hat. I like baseball a lot so I am going to notice this of course. He had a box of Juicy Juice. Happy Meal was holding a 'Steal this Book'. He did ones about getting some free stuff since a friend had passed, and slideshows on sitcoms.

Cuppa Cake

    This week I was given a cup, spoon, and cake mix at the office. It was called 'Cuppa cake', chocolate molten cake. It is billed as an 'Impressive gourmet dessert in seconds'. Just add water and microwave. The directions were simple to follow- pour mix in ceramic coffee mug and add 3 tablespoons of cool water, stir thoroughly. I microwaved it for a minute and a half, 15 seconds longer than recommended, but it came out fine. It was a little syrupy in the bottom of the cup, but that was all. Some said theirs burned. I waited to use it until there was a day with fewer sweet food items, like this week there was a Lunch and Learn about Junior Achievement and cookies were served. It also recommended serving this cake warm with ice cream, I asked where the ice cream was since they gave us everything else.
   I watched two episodes of 'Big Bang Theory' tonight. The syndicated rerun was where Leonard had a relationship with Leslie, and she smashes a frozen banana in front of Leonard. The prime time episode was where Sheldon gets a promotion but nobody signs up for his class except for Howard. Amy Farrah Fowler has a fun time being the popular girl, playing Bernadette and Penny off against each other.
   I shared what had happened at the end of my work day on Facebook and I got a firestorm of comments about it. I was asked out by an office colleague, I said yes to going out as friends but not a dating relationship. I have a rule about not dating coworkers. I was asked by email so I have tangible evidence to present to HR if need be. Most of the comments I got were from comedian friends saying I should go for it, but I had already said no. I had asked for people to tell me their stories about dating coworkers and how well it worked out, but I didn't hear many. Some comments were weird, others were funny. Some of the notable ones included mention of a broom closet, don't give up the jacket, and follow your heart but get liquored up. And to think the thing I would have expected to be talking about the most today was my employer's holiday party! I went to the second session, from 1-2pm. I did get two photos with colleagues, and no, neither was with the one who had asked me out. The asking out was after the luncheon. I was full after the luncheon that I decided to eat very little for dinner, just three rolls I got out of the main break room after the leftovers from the luncheon were brought in there. Near the end of the hour there were drawings for various items, but I didn't win anything.

Price Tag, Jessie J And B.O.B

      I really liked one song I heard while doing Wii dancing near the end of my workday. It was 'Price tag' by Jessie J and B.O.B. Many of the lyrics I really agree with, like 'Want to make the world dance' and 'Not about the money'. I have said it before how 'It shouldn't just be about the money' as money is easily spent. I am impressed by the stats I see for this song on Youtube. The video I watched had over 366 million views and was uploaded in 2011. I had to listen to it more than once to hear certain lyrics, like early on- 'Sale first, truth second'. It is a catchy video, showing the singer at one point as a marionette puppet. Along with 'Money on trees'. And a 'Yeah' in the middle is nice as well. I said the same about an Iggy Azalea song, 'Black widow baby', though in 'Widow' the word I like is 'Right'. Both are placed well. Can't forget another sentiment about wanting to get back to 'The music made us all unite', and the feature then singing 'Do this for the love'. When I arrived for this 30-minute event the coordinator said the song playing was 'Think' but it wasn't Aretha Franklin singing it. This did made me think of the movie 'Blues Brothers'. Some others we danced to included 'Party rock anthem' by LMFAO and 'Night boat to Cairo'.
   I did perform at the comedy club tonight. I like how the new jokes are doing well, like 'Words that make me laugh' along with 'Wine and dine me' and 'Faithful elephant'.
    Also at the comedy club, software developer was MC did ones about 'it's the bear' and monsters. The photographer did ones about make a baby, and circumcision. Ex-Navy did ones about nursing school, biting nails, sewing kit, it's my birthday, and the DWI ride. Capital city did ones about the babysitting circuit, gold stars, Diane Keaton, and gross uncles. The godmother did ones about The Price is Right, lady cops, hyper-active blind person, dog walking and cleanup, dysfunctional family tour, cats in stroller, and cereal entrepreneurs. 'Extra murder' gave me a shout-out when he spoke about what another comic looks like. Others were about a nativity scene, Yule Log, air conditioner, washing machine, a new Santa needed, take her Oscars away, and the state quarter map. Ex-Navy's dad did ones about dating advice, nice guys finish first, and virgin/version. Bathtub did ones about a dynasty, bring cinnamon rolls, and I want pepperoni. University accountant did ones about presidential libraries, Pedal Pub, beer laws, dancing Charlie Brown, and a Subway video game. Tetris did ones about break-up songs, stress eating, and Rainbow Foods. Grizzly Adams did ones about shaving his beard and gaining weight, the cost of a Pabst beer, college commercials, and Taylor Swift. Kentucky did ones about the MC hunting crab, let me eat you, zoo cat and owl, the weather-my turn, urgent care, and finding a bar. Michigan did ones about who his ex made out with, looking older than he is, his lady holding dog-do then throwing it at a car, learning about cheese and savings accounts, thigh gap and saddle sore, 2 dude wedding, Elton John and Liberace, and a man harbor.
    There wasn't much of a payoff report at work today, but I found other ways to stay occupied like processing new titles as well as doing 14 settled or paid in full letters.
   I did see a Fox-9 News segment about the late Gus Lynch, it was posted on Facebook. The reporter was shown outside one comedy club I frequent. And interviews were with this club owner, along with the big dog. I understand there will be events in his honor, but as far as I know nothing has been announced yet.  

Faithful Elephant

    I went to the comedy club tonight and was pleased that Mason City offered me some stage time. I think it was due to no-shows. I did one joke for the big dog as he was there to perform as well. It was about being asked to watch his bag, and how I take it seriously. It made me think of the Dr. Seuss story called 'Horton hatches the egg' as he spoke of being a faithful elephant. It was the first time I had done the joke and it seemed to go well. The show ended with a video tribute to Gus Lynch, and I noticed the video was from a different club. But I liked the jokes in it like 'Fat man under lights' and 'Bravo'. The latter is about friends who bragged about sexual conquests that weren't worth bragging about. Notable tonight was seeing some people I hadn't seen in a while, former employees if I am not mistaken. And then there was the hugging, with people like the big dog which was out of character as he is rarely serious. He did joke about not wanting to make a habit out of it, guess he has a reputation to uphold, ha-ha. Many were telling their stories about Gus, I did mostly listening as I didn't seem to have any. I knew him, but not as well as some others did. I had to say this to one man at the bar, possibly a crowd member but I am not sure. I am hopeful to attend events in his honor. It will mean checking Facebook to see about the when and where, but I did say I travel out of town much less in the winter months so it is likely that I will be available to attend. It was nice to see the boss man from another club tonight. I said it wasn't typical to see him at another club, but his wife said she made him show up. I would still like to see the boss man do comedy, but he said that ship has sailed.
     At the comedy club tonight, Mason City was MC. He did ones about Zoloft, 'fight or flight', Wells Fargo, Sacramento guy, Teen Wolf and T-Wolves, death star, run by pigs, ancestry dot-com, castle, and applause for Gus Lynch. The ex-cop did ones about his daughter's book, and his 'fad diet'- he got divorced. The Wisconsin guy did ones about Toby Keith's bar and grill, and erectile dysfunction ads. Others were about sleeping in the nude, rising sea levels, a bottlenose dolphin, and a Rihanna selfie. Oklahoma did ones about Secret Santa, his cat, waiting tables, and tartar sauce. Big Dog did ones about seeing a dead body, take it for granted, and his dad's sport jackets. Jersey video did ones about looking better when not wearing glasses, 20 years and 3 felonies, snap duck neck, Aaron Rodgers, Domino's Pizza, and drunk or high at Costco.  
   Besides the comedy club, I noticed one young woman wearing 'Cat tights' while boarding the bus this morning. There were cat heads in the knee area and the cat's tail on the back. At work the political science guy needed help with stuffing envelopes to make a mail deadline in the afternoon so I helped out a little. He also said kids like rattlesnakes.

Gus Lynch

    I heard some of my friends discussing one of our colleagues at the comedy club tonight, and I will have to admit I hadn't been brought up to speed as to what was happening. All I had heard earlier on Facebook was that our colleague had fallen while in Mexico, and he will be fine. But after the show I log onto Facebook and see numerous postings paying tribute to Gus Lynch, saying he had passed. I did see one comic upon arrival at the club, and I said hi, this was to the red-faced comic. I saw how he looked sad and hugged another comic, I then said 'I am here if you need me'. Earlier in the day I had an office colleague say he saw me in a sketch online, and this did make me feel happy. Gus was somebody I had worked with in this and some other sketches. I have been doing stand-up comedy for over 6 years now, and this is the third comedian that we have lost. I did not know Gus as well as the other members of The Turkeys, I will have to admit. I did post my own message saying 'I am here if you need me' to The Turkeys. I had heard this advice before in times of need: 'Just be there for them'. I have written about many comics in this blog, including Gus, who was called 'Self checkout' after his 'It's all bananas' joke.
    At the comedy club tonight, the MC did ones about it just felt right, sausage fest, and got to do what you got to do. Michigan did ones about Elton John, Liberace, and a man harbor. Morton Salt did one about TJ Maxx. Resistable did ones about what cats eat, a Las Vegas bar, and Target hair. Others were about strip clubs in Iowa, and carpet/drapes. The Yemen native did ones about teaching Arabic and 'that's my car'. Netflix did ones about welding, Twix, and one boob. Others were about a circus lawyer and Beyoncé. Bus fare did ones about a sandwich Forrest Gump, state fair horse show, and yogurt. Red-faced comic did ones about golf highlights and 'I'm not dead' shirts. Fantasia did ones about aliens, wrong car, locked keys in car, and lock picking. The Wisconsin guy did ones about erectile dysfunction ads and Obama-care. Tetris did ones about Spotify and Rainbow Foods. The Wisconsin girl did one about service dog fashion. Laundry did one about silk pajamas. Three times three was on the list, hard to read notes but it looks like did one about writing in cursive. School bouncer did ones about his vest, a kid in a field, and 'don't need you'. Worthington did ones about a dry sandwich, barb wire, and walking a cat. 'Extra murder' did ones about the 3 wise men, little drummer boy, nativity scenes, Yule Log, and the Truman Show.  Maryland did ones about an orgy, Noah's Ark, a girl at the gas station, and yoga pants. Perkins did ones about weed slang, Bilbo from 'Lord of the Rings', and his lady sending a text.