Polka King Porter Beer

   Went to a comedy show and music concert tonight and one of the beers I drank was a Polka king porter from Door county. The other was a Lone Star. Black flag and Fargo Moorhead performed comedy, and there were others doing guest sets. It has been a good year for me comedy-wise, but I welcome the new year as I learned a lot.
   Also at the comedy club, Twin Peaks did ones about Pulp Fiction wallet, porn in woods, flashlights, Silk Stalkings, Rachel Maddow, makeup, and Russian roulette. I also heard 'this girl is on fire', a song, being played at the venue. Fargo Moorhead did ones about community theater play, people with monocles, don't smash your hand, PSAs at airport, Cub Foods, have extra lives, stupid people, the movie 'Fargo', it's hot outside, Lebanese neighborhood, finish a book, sorry ladies, Marilyn Manson, 9 inch nails, memes on Instagram, remember a map, super Mario world, flashbacks in therapy, Bill Maher, and pot while pregnant.
   A band was next, I think called Avenue Army. Too late tonight to start again, tomorrow I will try again. Sit this one out, let's go, my resolution, kill my nemesis. American criminals, got no opinions no more. He said turn it into a smile, wave your hands in the air. A song about going to rehab, intro the band. Strange medicine, hey hey what you say. Small world did a guest set. He did ones about call in sick more, English mastiff, coach little league team, nearly 5 years in stand-up, comedy and band comparison, bad Weezer cover band, body shamed, and dad in prison. A lady comic with dread locks did ones about condom broke did coke, Twister movie, horse hooves, and dic-pic. Others were about anti-depressants, sexual side effects, hand held shower heads, not domesticated, mandolin, and bleeding. Black Flag did ones about double Texas, Kmart bathroom, bomb pops, rookie cop, DB Cooper, Elvis Presley, Chernobyl, American history X, curb check, fantasy football, Packers, AA meetings, doing pot, tye dye, and religion and cocaine. A band, Grande Machine, did a way out of this town.       

Trashcan Blog

   I was pleased with finding plenty more articles about my friends I know from doing comedy. One of them was about a blog written by Fantasia, called Trashcan. I haven't seen him at the clubs in a while and this seems to explain better as to why. The City Pages article from August states that he writes about celebrities, apparently impersonating them. He got attention from the lawyers of Harry Shearer, a voice actor on 'The Simpsons' although it appears that it means even more people are now reading as a posting about it went viral. The article said he was pranking friends for a while before writing about celebrities. I trust that I wasn't one of them, as I likely would have heard something about it by now. I think of myself as being one of the nicer comics around, so I am not that big on pranking. I just saw a posting on Facebook about how he got a hate message when writing about Donald Trump. I may want to say I am writing about how I just saw mention of it. I still need the time to add the articles to the binder, and tonight wasn't it as I went to the comedy club. It went well performing, even though I was stuck it was just for a short time and I knew an internet dating joke would help. Sometimes one needs to pause anyway. After I was done there I went on to another venue, but their show tonight was a no-go, being close to New Year's Eve. It still was nice to say hi to people I know, and take the time to talk to them when usually I don't for whatever reason. One of them was a barber, and told me some jokes, mostly puns. I took a look at my Facebook invites as well and finally decided on a show to attend for New Year's Eve. It in many ways was process of elimination. One appears to be sold out, another kind of expensive tickets. I inquired about stage time at some upcoming shows as well.
   Also at the comedy club, the taller of the brothers did ones about retaliation, studio apartment, and it's your bathtub. Werewolf did ones about can I kiss it?, Turkish hash, eat an extra donut, drug test, and drunk sex in dark. Long straw did ones about childhood insult, Tom Hanks, hurricane, fedora and cardigan, me in 20 years, safety school, bachelor pad, home alone, frozen soundtrack, MP3s, and creative writing. Lunch Lady did ones about married a Lutheran, Michelle Obama, Twinkies, smoking lounge, Jello salad, dating questionnaire, and state fair food. The shorter of the brothers did ones about midget fight, chess game, pawnshop, Pez dispenser, tree hugger, sunroof, disco ball, Best Buy, 7-11, adopting, Egypt pyramid, and sperm donation. Godmother did ones about kennel cough, Jim Bob Duggar, Dave Grohl, Christmas eve services, action at camp, fur and fragrance, secret shopper, science fairs, MN nice, thin the herd, and designated driver. Magic Man did ones about dad in assisted living, hoarders TV show, nice dinner and seduce, how to clean book, home away from home, and seeing aliens. Locks of Love did ones about American pickers, 8 years doing stand-up, hunting trips, mental illness, menopause, therapy off and on since age 12, quiet riot, and anti-social disorder. Others were about my family's crazy too, start a rap group, and 8-day marriage. Software developer did ones about Pac-man, in the game to win, motorcycle accident, not winning over PETA, not wearing helmet, adopted from China, and Leann Chin. Fargo Moorhead did ones about Walmart pepper spray, allergies, cooking reality TV, have some pride, and Gil from the Simpsons. Wee bit did ones about smell on bus, hot chicks, homeless people, text message, put away wallet, bun in oven, large marge, angry pirate, and chocolate waffle. Laundry did ones about if it goes well, hot dogs in fridge, hear dog whistles, camping prank, bio-freeze, not a napkin, life hands you lemons, sex and consequences, passive aggressive parent, and rides to Coon Rapids.    

Good Bad Photo Shop

    I am still going through comedy souvenirs that are being put in a binder. It also means looking at one that has pocket schedules and business cards in it. One of them was on a comedy page, called 'Good bad photo shop'. I think I picked up this little ad at a show but not sure when. It says send us any scenario, your photo, and $19.95. We will get you a photo shop original. I think it is auto-correct who was in charge of it. I do like the progress I am making on the binders, as there are now two that have comedy souvenirs in it. I am trying to group things logically, such as from the same performer or around the same time. Although it does remind me of other things that probably belong in it. Some of what I added was Wikipedia articles of people I know. This is why it is kind of a big deal on doing comedy. One has become a big deal if there is such an article about them. Three are in the binder, this would be the Wisconsin couple as well as the Fancy comic. I found out there is another 'Ring of honor' member who has a Wikipedia page- Fergus falls, who I opened for twice now including this year. Some of it also means moving things around a little. I like having some of these items on display at the office as I spend enough time there. Some were sent there as they were duplicate cards, and the I have an excuse to keep both around. Now it means sending a card from one club there after confirming I had two, one in the business card binder and the other I pulled off the wall. I said to myself I hadn't really needed these cards on the wall as I hadn't called the numbers yet. they were all of venues, the three stand-alone clubs in the Twin City area and the non-profit comic- run club. I have been to all of their open mics. I notice this means I now have three different kinds of cards from Mason City, who is a showcase organizer at one of the four venues.
  It went fine performing at the comedy club tonight, helped by being by myself before going onstage so I had the time I needed to go over material. I had a half-day of work at my office job, and I was done at midday. It was no problem getting to the office on time as the buses were running with little or no delay in spite of the snowstorm overnight and into today.
   Also at the comedy club, International Falls did ones about a flask of cough syrup, order a dress, a Benadryl guy, Sudafed, Target, day 464 no HR, pregnant colleague, went to online employee manual, and emergency contact to Prince. I also wrote down 'if it makes you happy' by Sheryl Crow, this must have been a song I heard while at the club. Lunch Lady did ones about Boston transplant, give them weeks to campaign, Mick Jagger, Florence Henderson, toilet paper roll, Chrysler minivan, Smithsonian magazine, and married a geek. Blake did ones about not ready to have kids, sea monkeys, oil dipstick, funnel cake, scary movies, naming books, lady at bar, stick figure family, and spider in grapes. Blind Side did ones about a car wreck, and being adopted. I-falls said I was practicing being Santa, as I was sitting down.

Christmas Lights On Bus

   I thought it was weird this morning to see Christmas lights on the bus I was taking in to work. I didn't know if I would see this again so I got a picture of it. But it didn't end there. When I finished my walk before going in to the office I saw people crowding around in the skyway to get a look outside. There was a fight in progress and somebody asked why there weren't any cops around. It was nice to see both of the people I know from bus riding in the evening. I said it hadn't snowed yet so I am still going to the comedy club tonight. There was plenty of snow by the time the show ended, but I knew well enough to stay off highways and stick to 'Stoplight roads'. I have the margin for error and easier to stop when I need to. I learned a valuable lesson when I was in college, putting my car in the median during a snow and ice storm. 'At least I am moving' is a good credo to have.
  I am adding another comic to the 'Ring of honor', it is the trailer park girl. She has returned from the Last Comic Standing tour, and I liked her stories about it. I said she was worthy as this is the first comic that wanted me to listen to their CD before it was released. The club manager did the photo for us. I had hoped to add another comic after the show but I didn't see him, I said I had just ordered his CD from Amazon less than a week ago.
    Also at the comedy club, Fish noodle did ones about an HS prom lock-in, can't afford this, and tongue prints. IED/IUD did ones about hippie college, $45k camp, diabetes, yeast, Gilbert Grape, and Oregon Trail. Ragu did ones about background checks, Imagine Dragons, red shirt at Target, weed party, Shrek, and Chipotle. Long Straw did ones about apple crisp, stable of horses, Catholic singles, priest blessing, and gay brother. Yemen did ones about Fox News, Trump, salute flag, teach Arabic, who is this?, some changes, and drove off with nozzle. Locks of Love did ones about found on Facebook, 8-day marriage, anxiety pills, binge drink, crazy contest, and Amy Winehouse. Brawler did ones about Pittsburgh, gangster niece, and history class. Resistable did ones about Taylor Swift, Tales from the Crypt, what cats eat, adopt a highway, MOA parties, stew in juices, selfie stick race, and dental plan. School bouncer did ones about Canada, bank scare, Blind Side, Ben Carson, ISIS, Detroit, gluten, and Facebook beef. Wee bit did ones about smidge, sex-ed, dic-pic, just felt right, just wait, bought condoms, and free couch. Tetris did ones about crowd surf, blood plasma, make a murder, ear pierce, James Bond, and Netflix. Worthington did ones about fish and blog, Viagra, pharmacist brother, stomach ache, jogger pant, hurricane, Mohawk, debates, prime rib, summer heat, and Don Rickles. Olive Garden did ones about get it over with, bankrupt, speed date, title joke, tug at heart, dude is whore, and defense of insanity. Fever comic did ones about flossing, $36m suit, pot legal, Steve Avery, and disposable contacts. Sub teacher did ones about North Korea, songs for all, friendships awkward, crossbow dork riff-raff, Valley Forge, Grandma's ring, urgent care, sad audience, wild boar, planned parenthood, increase profits, and call in sick. Three by three did ones about butterfly, how to flirt, quick gaze, whee, social anxiety, online advice, train whistle, and touch arm. Perkins did ones about Grand Forks, zucchini, cough syrup, Gummi Bears, stolen ferret, co-ops, asthma, HCMC, dislike button, how humane, and show tunes. Trailer park girl did ones about penguins and Santa, Interstellar, hooters, poop on bus, married at club, mom for Trump, Steve Harvey, plane seat, 8 years then TV, forgot jokes then cat, Casa Blanca, Bernie Sanders, the tour, 79 shows 90 days, turtle racing, Scalia, text message, and they're looking at you.  

Trainwreck Movie

   I watched a Redbox rental this afternoon, 'Trainwreck', starring Amy Schumer. It was all right. First time I think I had seen anything by this comic. What made the movie was the supporting characters, they seemed to be funnier than Amy. She seemed to be sarcastic too often. I liked it when she was able to be serious. There were plenty of cameos, or people starring as themselves, besides basketball player LeBron James. I recalled seeing posters for this movie all over New York City when I was visiting there in August. The movie title fits well, as Amy does seem to be a train-wreck.
   I also spent plenty of time going through comedy souvenirs and getting them into sheet protectors in a binder. These were the ones socked away in a big envelope. It was mostly show promo cards. This was spurred by a conversation I had with Big Dog after the CD recording last night. He joked how he didn't expect to look at the binder. After getting more things added, I did say on Facebook that he should fear not as he is in it probably more often than others. This is especially true if you count anything related to The Turkeys, the troupe he is front-man of. I like how much of it, half of the bigger binder (there are 2 binders) is from this year as it has been a more active one for me performing. Seeing a wide variety of comics in it, some may see it as a 'Who's who' of the Twin City comedy scene. But it still proves the ambivalence I have about comedy. I do like supporting friends, but I like stage time even more.
   In the evening I did go to the comedy club, but I think I was a little off. I did just 3 of 8 things on my list, and too much of it when ad-libbed seemed to be about dating failures. It probably didn't help that another comic wanted to talk to me right before I went on. Why does he still want to ask me about the relationship I was in, that ended over 2 years ago? I am surprised that there are some who still didn't know. Especially when I thought I already answered all of these questions last week. There was yet another comic who says I should start a podcast, I said I am not IT savvy. I wouldn't call either one of them friends, by any means. This is still my Achilles heel, trying to reason with people who can't be reasoned with. Sometimes it means needing to be assertive, and saying 'I have had enough' and not waiting for them to end the conversation.
   Also at the comedy club, Brawler did ones about a storm trooper, Die Hard, Long Kiss Goodnight, dinner at Mickey's diner, Weight Watchers, Verizon guy, test tube baby, stepdad a drug addict, delicious cereal, just get receipts, the OD tree, extended eye contact, only eat broccoli, and social services. Long Straw did ones about marriage is temporary, she's pregnant right, 2 year coke binge, ska and reggae, creative writing degree, blockbuster video, house arrest employee, sort of like your life, and plate of asparagus. Radio personality did ones about jogging, Eminem in 8-mile, sword collection, neighbor at XYZ apartments, little sister a gardener, gangster squirrels, tick marks, not Anoka, Coon Rapids, Sarah Mac, and Ted Nugent. Wee bit did ones about bun in oven, Tinder, take hike, try to live fantasies, angels in outfield, sports team names, grocery store out of business, same color car, and Star Wars spoiler.

Central African States

    I pick up mail at the post office box at least once a week. I did have one E-bay order there, it was the postcards of currency, sent from Israel. I ordered the American, Canadian, and British cards. To my surprise, there was a fourth sent. It was the Central African states. On the opposite side it said 'World's circulating coins series 2013'. For the Central African states, the basic unit is the franc. This makes sense the writing on the paper money is in French. There are eight coins depicted along with the paper money, the coins are the 1, 2, 5, 10, 25, 50, 100, and 500 franc coins. The paper money is 10,000 francs. The other three postcards have an inset image of the nation's flag, this one does not. I chose those three as those are nations I have either lived in or visited. And of course when I have become interested in coin collecting again this year, I happened to find this online after finding the ones about a big coin in Canada being a tourist attraction in Sudbury, Ontario. I have heard of the central African republic, I was not sure if this is the same as this nation as I know nations do change names at times. I decided to inquire further online, and according to Wikipedia this is the banking system for 6 different African nations, and Central African Republic is one of them. the others are: Cameroon, Chad, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, and Congo. I had heard of Cameroon as I had a college roommate who claimed it as one of his native nations, along with Senegal.
   After going to the library and printing things, I went to Bobby and Steve's in Minneapolis and had a F'real strawberry milkshake and some Godfather's pizza. I discovered these shakes this year, nice to be able to blend them yourself. Then it was home for a little while, and eventually to the grocery store. I also picked up a movie from redbox as I have a free night available. I should be able to watch it on Sunday.
   I went to a CD recording for one of my friends, as Big dog was headlining at the comedy club. Stillwater was MC and Fever comic was feature, IED/IUD did a guest set. I did get one souvenir from this night, he had a red promo card left over from a Turkeys show that I didn't have yet. I laughed a lot, it was the fifth CD recording I was a part of. School bouncer was there, I was surprised at first as I thought he was out of town for the holiday. He said he just got back. This CD will be with the Stand-up Records label, more than half of the CDs I have that were done by friends are from this label. I said I wouldn't have missed it for the world as I figured he was good enough to do one. I knew I was part of a 'Warm-up' show he did a year ago, then I wondered 'What happened? as I didn't hear anything for a while. Doing some politicking at this show may help on getting more stage time soon. I had to say to Mason City's friend, an ex-New Yorker, that I really wanted to make it to sketch filming but it didn't fit my schedule. Sounds like Sundays may be made available to me soon. I can more easily make it on a Sunday. It felt weird to hear how one sketch was scrapped as I couldn't make it. I didn't know I was that big of a deal, where something just doesn't happen without me. Was something like this what inspired the Eminem song of the same name? The other was a show I haven't done in over a month, that I may be doing again soon. I had to say I hadn't been contacted, and I said 'Do what you can' to somebody that appeared to be a lieutenant.  

Roger Rabbit Movie

    I stayed in for most of this Christmas holiday, and one of the things I did was watch the Roger Rabbit movie on DVD. I had found it at Target recently and liked how I could replace another one of my VHS tapes. I recall seeing it at the theater when I was young. I am not sure how I feel about the taxicab being the background voice on the table of contents, as it said 'Where to?' and sounded like a Don Rickles- type insult comic. Sometimes I do need to be pushed a little to get going, but I am still used to DVDs just playing music in a loop when one gets to the welcome page. Now the movie itself is still as good as I had remembered, worthy of 4 Oscars. I still like the weasels in it as the cops, the henchmen to Judge Doom, played by Christopher Lloyd. And I do like the taxicab saying things like 'And how about those Brooklyn Dodgers, are they bums or what?' or 'No it's Shirley Temple, or Eleanor Roosevelt'. I do recall reading before how this book and movie was inspired by 'Chinatown' starring Jack Nicholson. Since of course toon-town is a suburb of Hollywood in this movie.
   I did the dishes and recycle last night, then put away the dishes and took out recycle today. I only went out to take care of the recycle in the afternoon, and in the same trip out I went to the Super-America and got a few items. One of them was the Minneapolis paper, also got 2 Reese's peanut butter trees, 2 cheese sticks, and a bottle of Heineken beer. I had thought about going to Buca di Beppo, same as last year, but no tables were available and I figured take-out would take a while like it did for Thanksgiving. I had a Banquet turkey dinner in the freezer so all I needed was a drink with it when I had the microwave popcorn as well. It was cheaper than Buca, and they had no holiday dinner being advertised. It was nice to get caught up on some things, like watch another DVD besides 'Roger Rabbit'- the Seinfeld comedy documentary I had bought at a secondhand store last month. It had plenty of well-known comedians in it besides Seinfeld, including Jay Leno and Garry Shandling when he visits Los Angeles. I mostly listened to the 'Yule log' program while being online, didn't watch it much as the scenery doesn't change much. It was good background music when I was online.

Confident, Demi Lovato

   Tonight when I was driving to church for the Christmas Eve service, I heard a song on my radio that asked 'What's wrong with being confident?' Well, nothing at all. I found out it was called 'Confident' by Demi Lovato. I found it on Youtube later on, and the video has a prison theme where she is asked to find somebody who is wanted. I probably need to listen to it again as I was more focused on the video than the words and music.
  Before and after the service, I watched the movie 'La Bamba' on DVD. I did a full day at work, where my work spouse did wonders on finding supplies. How did it happen? I didn't ask. I was just thankful. I referred to an episode of 'Facts of life' where Mrs. Garrett asked Jo how she got beer. And Jo said 'I got beer'. Learn from the best, or know the best, that is my credo.
  I had hoped to get to the grocery store but it was not to be, as it closed early for the holiday, at 4pm. So I got the food I needed at a Super-America, and then a Family Dollar. At the SA it was some microwave popcorn, Lay's BBQ chips, and some peanut butter cookies. At Family Dollar it was a can of chili, and I knew well enough to get there shortly after the prime time episode of 'Big bang theory' was done. The store was closing at 8pm, and I got there about 15 minutes prior. I didn't know what else I wanted to eat, and of course it doesn't take long to heat up some chili on the stove top.
   I watched 2 Big Bang Theory episodes tonight. Syndicated rerun was when Sheldon saw Santa in a dream after he spoke of a wish that didn't come true when he was young. Raj found out he can be just as lonely as Amy. Prime time episode was when the mothers of Sheldon and Leonard met, and they are opposites. Raj, Howard, and Stuart were told by Bernadette to clean up the kitchen and they were singing 'Hard knock life' from the movie 'Annie' as the show ended.
   At the church service, I still like the feeling of melted candlewax on my fingers. I will tip the candle on purpose so I will get to feel it. I liked getting some photos while there after the service, one was of paper fans that had some kids drawings on the back. Another was of a painting on the wall of the church. Before I arrived, after walking from my car, I liked seeing inside of a former Woolworth's store in downtown St. Paul. There was a sign I could see that said 'Escalator' and what looked like a counter, possibly the lunch counter. I could see the escalators well, and got 3 photos. I may want to go back and get some when the sun is up as I may get a better view. The windows had been covered up for a while.

Shenandoah Battlefields

   I contribute to the Civil War preservation trust, and because of this apparently I will sometimes get mail from similar organizations. Today it was from the Shenandoah valley battlefields foundation. It is a national Civil War conference, to be held in Atlanta in April. But I will not be going as the cost is $550. It says it is about Atlanta, Shenandoah, and the turn to total war. In 1864, the Civil War became a total war, and the world turned to fire. On the other side is the picture of a general, likely to be Stonewall Jackson as there was some mention elsewhere of this general.
   I liked performing at the comedy club tonight, and I knew full well not to sign up until I was ready to go on. So I got my beer, wrote out my set, then signed up. A light crowd at first since it is close to the holiday. I spoke of the 'Hot dog story at Wrigley Field' to the Science Museum employee when I was riding the bus this morning, She laughed really hard about that one. So I knew I had to try it. I also was thinking about the movie 'La Bamba', especially an early scene in it when Bob said 'We are getting out of here tomorrow' (paraphrased). It was due to mention of this expletive the night before, between shows. Seemed odd and a little un-nerving when I had a dream about being late for work this morning, must have been a concern of mine. But thankfully it didn't happen, it was just a dream.
  

North Star Meat Raffle Show

    I did two shows tonight with the Wisconsin couple, it was the north star meat raffle comedy show. I was the 'Live blogger' and gave comments during the show every so often. It was tough for me to just go to the green room after the first show as I am used to helping out, as my jobs in school were dishwasher and janitor. But the bossman said he had it covered so I didn't need to help round up drinking glasses. I spoke of my dad working at Maytag when asked what impressions I did besides Bob Dylan, as I spoke of how the show reminded me of Prairie Home Companion and I once met Garrison Keillor when doing an impressions contest. There was also the flooded McDonald's, a video as art, after hearing a poet refer to a McDonald's. Then there was a comic I didn't know who said she had a show in New Ulm soon, and I like going there for Oktoberfest. I said this was a rare year where I made two visits to New Ulm, as I went there for the county fair in August, it was coupled with a visit to the Laura Ingalls Wilder museum in Walnut Grove. The show runner liked me doing an impression of my dad and said it sounded like the name of a rock star. I liked how there were some slight differences between the two shows. In my case I wanted it that way, and it was evident in the 'Take-aways' I had. In the second show I spoke of my favorite McDonald's being near the former Schmidt brewery in St. Paul as there is a play-land and ball pit there. And the music duo from Duluth made me think of the Paula Abdul song 'Straight up' as one of them had a string bass like in that song. Then there was seeing TV trays, hadn't seen them since I was a kid, and Perkins playing the pope and having communion. But it was a donut instead of wafers. International falls, bus fare, and the button were others I shared the stage with. I wore my Christmas themed Charlie Brown shirt (actually Snoopy and Woodstock) as well as a yellow Charlie Brown trucker hat. It seemed appropriate as I was doing a line from 'Charlie Brown Christmas' and I-falls did the Linus part about what the true meaning of the holiday is. I already stated on Facebook how I am thankful to get a role in this show. This would be guest set number 6 for me this year. It means a lot when a fellow comic likes my comedy enough to include me in their shows. Hard to say how it compares to other shows I have done, as it is hard to pick a  favorite show. But I like the 'Self-validating feeling' I get when doing comedy. And the most important thing is I had fun doing this show. 'Have fun up there' is the advice I give to new comics. I may have had the best seat in the venue as it was near the stage. I did ask for one thing that will have to wait as it was a busy night. I wanted the Wisconsin couple to sign my show announcement that I printed from Facebook as I like having as many comedy souvenirs as possible from shows I've done. I was paid, I got free food and drink, I got a poster, it was the most important thing. I said I didn't want to leave until I had finished my drink, but in many ways it was also because I wanted the night to last a little longer. So I did help them out with getting things to the car once they were packed up. And it meant staying by the car, parked outside the venue. I spoke of being entrusted with the Big dog's bag at another venue, and I take it seriously when people trust me. It led to a joke about the Dr. Seuss book 'Horton hatches the egg' when he said 'An elephant faithful, one hundred percent'.
   I did do some other things today. I had the day off from my office job and did some errand running. I went to the post office, not much there. Went to Rosedale mall, got a Charlie Brown movie calendar and some jeans. Wanted to type letters for Christmas cards but they wouldn't print at the library. Finally there was Walgreen as I wanted some shaving razors, sheet protectors, and a notebook for the show tonight.  

UPS My Choice

   Last week I ordered some Rose Bowl game items from the University of Iowa Hawk Shop. I signed up for UPS my choice so I would be able to divert the package to a location where I could more easily pick it up after work. I just got something in the mail from UPS, a PO box in Monroe, WI, about signing up for this 'Membership'. When it arrived it looked like a check to cash, as there were the perforations all around it. I don't order that many packages sent by UPS so I am not sure how beneficial it will be to have signed up. But thankfully there is no fee involved. It mentions a number to call and a control number if I did not sign up so the membership can be canceled. It is called 'Flexible package delivery' and talks of getting advance email or SMS notifications when a package is on the way. With my needs this is not a big deal, especially I can follow the package with the given tracking number.
  I did make it to the comedy club tonight. I am also seeing more messages from the Wisconsin girl about the show I am doing this week. I am thrilled and excited about the role I have in it. Sounds like not your typical comedy show, but a change of pace is good at times.
    Also at the comedy club, Chalm-Skinn did ones about bubble wrap, and a coffee van. Perkins did ones about stuffy in there, Kia car, asthma, HCMC, Gitmo, Facebook adds, Harry Potter, and dislike button. Fargo Moorhead did ones about trim beard, what touche means, and pot while pregnant. Yemen did ones about Donald Trump, Dick Cheney, your dad now, snitches stitches, drive off with nozzle, Woodbury, and Charlie Sheen. Bus fare did ones about man on bus, Joann Fabrics, get it together, Garfield the cat, eggs in one basket, Prince, Willy Wonka, and Paul McCartney. Brawler did ones about stuck in Minot, Sponge Bob, Cosmo magazine, how many partners, and don't need me. A high energy comic did ones about cab drivers, little down of Bethlehem, office temp, don't fax, moved coat rack, and cure for cancer. Worthington did ones about jogger pants, Mohawk do, we both silly, belt and pride, get Viagra, wait for it, and she is sick. Tetris did ones about Jimmy Stewart, 3 ghosts, playing x-box, run red light, onion head lines, Dr. Mario, and Bernie Sanders. Maryland did ones about shot lion, Friends on Netflix, sex tape, credit score, MOA protest, eye appointment, it's called dating, shop at Target, turning 30, strip club, and water on Mars. University accountant did ones about an Adele song, Red Bull, drink water, Angry Birds, fad names, collector plates, Larry Steve Antonio, porn name, Olsen twins, and cat video. Bathtub did ones about a dog shirt, lava lamp, Pompeii, disc golf, fish and snail food, brick, and sneezing too much. School bouncer did ones about wedding band, Kowalski's snacks, Ben Carson, ISIS plan, riverside, Canada visit, and bank scare. Louisiana did ones about cut off at bar, UFOs, meth, Lochness Monster, Bigfoot, and shine on you crazy diamond. Extra murder did ones about Subway Jared, foreclosed house, broken auto door, Steve Harvey, Saturday Night Fever, renew vows, fireplace show, nativity scene, urologist, and Sesame Street.

Disney Holiday Countdown Calendar

    I like trying items from the discount table at the grocery store. This week it was the Disney holiday countdown calendar. There were many themes to choose from, but this is the one I knew best. I got it for just a dollar, also why I am more willing to try things from this table. There are 24 chocolates, they are very small. It says the calorie content of the entire package is just 270. One sees Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, and Pluto on this box. I have eaten 20 of them, stopping at this number as I am now caught up. I ate 16 on the previous day and 4 today, but the 16 was 2 separate sessions of 8. On the back of the box it speaks of coloring Mickey and his friends in, then ask an adult to help with cutting out these things along the dotted lines. Punch a hole in the top of the keepsake, and with a piece of string, make fun Mickey holiday decorations. I guess this does explain one thing I saw in the movie 'National Lampoon's Christmas vacation' which served as the transitions between scenes. But when I was young my family had nothing like this, a countdown calendar with doors to open.
   I got the laundry done early, so I could get to the Bears-Vikings game. I was on the road just after 11am, and found a place to park before I got on the light rail to the stadium. The Vikings won 38-17, and never trailed in this one. The Bears just weren't moving the ball well enough. I didn't see the first half of the first quarter as it took a while to get through security checks and then scanning tickets. I did notice a firefighter next to a Salvation Army kettle outside the stadium, it became my first photo of the day. I did leave my seat just before halftime to beat the crowds that wanted food, and got chicken tenders and fries. I saw somebody try to remove a cover from a water fountain, even though it said they were shut off for the rest of the season. I was back in my seat before the second half began, looks like there was a mascot game at halftime. I left my seat again at the end of the third quarter to go to the bathroom, I liked how I didn't need to go for a while. After the game I thought about taking the light rail back to my car but it was a long wait to get on so I got out of the line and started walking. I ended up at the Bobby and Steve's as I wanted a milkshake that gets prepared in a blending machine. It appears to be like the machine for Blizzard treats at Dairy Queen. One clerk asked if I was going to blend it there, I said I wanted to pay for it first.
   When I got home I watched some of the later football games, but eventually fell asleep. Somebody opened the door of my home, I said 'Hey, hi' but I never saw them as they must have realized it was the wrong door. I was back on the light rail in the evening to get to a comedy show. I liked doing a joke about taunts I have had directed at me at previous Bears-Vikings games. Another was about the burlesque show I attended this weekend.
   Also at the comedy club, Brawler did ones about blatant racism, asking about Hanukkah, scary part of Texas, hat for horns, condom before party, and the chicken dance at a wedding. Fargo Moorhead did ones about reality TV, restaurant not doing well, Gil on Simpsons, trim beard, what touche means, and PSAs at airport. Maryland did ones about Holi-dazzle, MOA protest, eye appointment, shot lion, Friends on Netflix, strip club names, sex tape, and water on Mars. Opera singer did ones about Allman Brothers and Journey, historical re-enactor, went to music school, U of M lifeguard, and how tornadoes work. Turtle check did ones about based on how I feel, server favorites, made-up drinks, winter weight, steak sandwich, baked potato, hipster erotica, and strict vegans. School bouncer did ones about shower on Instagram, everybody loves Raymond, kid destroyed classroom, Ben Carson, and create ISIS rift. Fish noodle did ones about HS prom lock-in, almost in a car crash, Freddie Mercury, and serial killer notebook. Long straw did ones about cynical advertising, Don Rickles, Frozen soundtrack, buying calendars, homeward bound, and asparagus.

Napoleon Exhibit

   I went to the Napoleon exhibit at Harriet Island in St. Paul this afternoon. I liked how I saw a discount card at the Landmark Center this week, it saved me three dollars on admission. Essentially this was put towards the souvenirs I bought, as the postcards and stickers were just over this amount. I was under-read about Napoleon in the history classes I had taken, even though it was my college major. I knew about things like the battle of Waterloo, but not much else. I was mostly familiar with how pop culture kept him relevant, like in the 'Bill and Ted' movie. Or my parents playing music when I was young and hearing a song that said 'Everybody meets their Waterloo'. I did learn some things while there, as expected. He was married more than once, something about getting one marriage annulled as he wanted an heir and the wife didn't give him a son. Another was how he apparently got Notre Dame cathedral re-opened as a church. One of his siblings lived in America for a while, in New Jersey. I did get plenty of photos there. It sounded like he did take cues from previous kings and dictators. The exhibit stated that some of the art was actually propaganda. One of the posters advertising the exhibit asked how he had time to do a bust when he conquered 8 nations. I had heard how he influenced the choice of the current flags in some nations, like the tricolor flags in France and Italy.
   I had an ambitious list today, knowing I wanted to get as much done as possible so I could leave most of Sunday open for attending the Bears-Vikings game. I got to everything on my list except doing laundry, which I normally do on Sunday anyway. It means doing it early.
   In the evening I watched the 'Frosty the snowman' DVD I had just bought at Target earlier today. I also got the 'Peanuts movie' soundtrack. Then it was off to the comedy club, as I had a comp ticket for the contest final. It was from long straw. It was hard to know who to vote for, as I knew five of the six contestants. So it was largely a toss-up for me, especially when three of them are in my 'Ring of honor'. Besides Long straw, this also includes Laundry, and Wee bit. Jane Goodall informed me I had a ticket, and who it was from, so I thanked her for letting me know. The Wisconsin girl has been telling me more about my role in a show I am doing Tuesday. I am excited about doing this show, as any stage time outside of open-mics is a big deal.
    Also at the comedy club, software developer did ones about a motorcycle accident, and monsters. Long straw did ones about catholic singles, priest blessing, gay brother, apple crisp, Instagram, sleeper agent, field sobriety test, Rick Flair, homeward bound, asparagus, and childhood insult. Werewolf did ones about what really happens, drug test, public bathroom, fire hose, sleep walkers, dried placenta, healing crystal, and Dr. Phil. Wee bit did ones about just felt right, go in garage and wait, gas station condoms, couch at end of driveway, work construction, powering thru emotions, and high school health teacher. Laundry did ones about sex over consequences, she's a warrior, bumper cars, slap fight, and roundabouts.
   I don't think I knew the headliner, who did ones about breakfast in bed, and the bird thing. Others were about number 3, ex police cars, weekend at Bernie's, chucky cheese, t-shirt cannon, Michelangelo's david, ATM and toilet, smoke detector, Uber driver/valet, the herps, myspace, and court bailiff.

Charles In Charge Theme Song

   I went to another burlesque show tonight. I really liked the opener, as I recognized many of the TV shows being referenced, mostly from the 60s and 70s. One of them was 'Charles in Charge', and at this point the theme song was played. But it led to a different ending than expected, as the dancer held up a magazine that had convicted murderer Charles Manson on the cover. I said 'That was a burn'. Others in this number included Fantasy Island, the Jeffersons, Laverne and Shirley, Batman, Star Trek, Brady Bunch, and I Dream of Jeannie. A later number had the song 'What a feeling', which I said sounded familiar and it's because it was from the movie 'Flashdance'. Though the dancer had 'Zoinks' on her undies and I did say she looked more like Velma from 'Scooby doo'. Another notable one was a Salvation Army bell ringer. I thought she looked like Melissa Joan Hart, who was on the TV. show 'Sabrina'. It sounded like she was dancing to a Ludacris song. Then there was dark wing duck dancing to 'Danger zone', a song from the movie 'Top gun'. Just before the break was 'You're a mean one, Mr. Grinch'. After the break the dancer was in a Rudolph the red-nosed reindeer costume, and danced to what I found out was a rap song called 'Important' by MZ007. A fire eater danced to 'Gold lion', by the Yeah Yeah Yeahs. It made me laugh at times to see some of their ideas.
   For some reason I thought of the movie 'Last days of disco' while there, not sure why. I know Jennifer Beals was in it, much like 'Flashdance'. But was that it? 'Disco' stands out in my mind as I saw it shortly after moving from Iowa to suburban Chicago in 1998.
   I liked taking a walk around the downtown area at midday when I went to get a sandwich at Erbert Gerbert. While there I thought it was odd to hear the song 'Cruel summer' as it isn't summer. Also during this time I got a Winter Carnival button. I chose the one with the Landmark Center in the background, and a snowman in the foreground. There are four styles to choose from. I was swamped with letter requests due to being out on Thursday, and nobody did them for me. I was able to finish 23, and just one is left in the box. 

Snoopy, Come Home Movie

   Recently I bought four more Charlie Brown DVDs at Target. Three of them were movies, so now I have all four of the movies made before this year. In the afternoon I watched the last of the four, it was 'Snoopy come home'. I think I had seen at least part of it on TV before. I recalled the line 'You got a used dog, Charlie Brown', it was what Linus said. He did some investigating as to why Snoopy was missing, and it meant calling the Daisy Hill puppy farm. I had to remind myself how it was made a while ago, in 1972 apparently. This would explain why I see some characters in it that aren't seen in the ones I am more familiar with. This may be a rare one that has both Pattys in it, as there is who I call 'Patty #1' as well as Peppermint Patty. Shermy and Freida are in it as well, and those two were later retired much like Patty #1 but show up again in the movie currently in theaters. I did notice the music in it, much like in 'A boy named Charlie brown' it looks like snoopy is playing the same instrument. I am wondering if this is what was known as the 'Jew harp'. It makes a weird twanging sound. The one I had before the most recent buying binge was 'Race for your life', so of course I had seen it already, shortly after buying it. Of these four, hard to say which one I like the best. There is also 'bon voyage' where some of the characters go to Europe. I may like the TV specials more than the movies. I know this is largely true with other franchises, where 'The Simpsons' did a movie version but I don't think I liked it as much as the episodes from the TV show. Some shows do better in a shorter format. The four movies do have their merits, though. Especially when I think none of the TV specials have them 'Going international' like in 'Bon voyage'.
   Yes, I watched a movie in the afternoon. I was out of the office today, using up a vacation day before year end. I did go into the building for some holiday goodies, but unlike last week it wasn't at the office. It was done by the building management, so it was on the first floor in the lobby area. I liked how they had cider there. Then I went to get some popcorn at Candyland and finished it just before I got on the bus back home. I stopped at the post office on the way and picked up what was waiting there, two packages. Both were Charlie brown items, a blanket and a set of 33 trading cards. The cards were put into sheet protectors and a binder right away. It was also odd to still see more mail not for me, but whoever had the PO box before me. One of them was a magazine. Another was a letter with a return address, I did mark it 'Return to sender' and put it back in the mail. The other two items I threw out, I am told I can do this. The other was a postcard about a car warranty, no return address.
   I liked watching 'Big Bang Theory' in the evening as Bob Newhart was a guest star on it, as Obi-Wan in a dream sequence with Sheldon. I liked how they switched between the friends going to see 'Star Wars' - and Amy and Sheldon in the bedroom- and both had the same reactions to what happened. This was the prime time episode. The syndicated rerun was the one where Sheldon was willing to wear a French maid costume to get a meeting with Steven Hawking.
   I also called my dad in the evening, I said I got the JC Penney gift card but was surprised there was no letter included. We spoke about various issues, early on it was about the music of Jerry Reed and it prompted me to get out my greatest hits CD. I bought it as I wanted 'Lord Mr. Ford', a song Dad spoke of when he told me somebody had already written about how a person's status in life is determined by the car they drive. This was when I was in high school and we would go see Des Moines Buccaneers hockey games.   

A Very Comic Christmas

    I went to a holiday party tonight, known as 'A very comic Christmas'. It was hosted by the bossman and his wife. First time I had been invited to one of these, much like the Memorial Day party this year was my first. I saw just about everybody I had wanted and hoped to see there. I know some may have been unable to make it if they were out of town. Notable was the Wisconsin couple, the wife was cutting off pieces from a big candy bar. The husband was telling me he wanted to do a meme of me saying a catchphrase. I brought chips, that were picked up at a Target Express after I picked up a UPS package from a nearby retail location. I liked how it worked to divert the package and not having to go to their big facility like I have done before. Then after the party it was off to the comedy club. I was on early tonight, shortly after getting my beer.
   Also at the comedy club, after me was a well dressed man doing drummer solos, Cartier. Yes his name is Rick James, he's been doing the Dave Chappelle thing, according to the show runner. Vocalist was a St. Thomas student, and the drummer is still in back. Got to pull myself together, showing affection. Always in my fantasy, heart into retractions. Lost in your translation, temptation from another nation. Diamond, a guitarist, is next. A fool for your love, caught like a fool, ooh stay open. Jamie, by your side, you're gone, waiting patiently. We'll be together a long time. A guitarist and bongos, Sarah, you're the sweetest one. Brighter than the drama, when will I grow. Rick James did friends in low places. Rachel, a guitarist, did don't forget me when I'm feeling lonely. Don't you ever tell me that you can be my friend. I'll make a mess out of you. This is my battle cry, what I am or will say goodbye, we are damaged souls. The house band did I like the way you work it, no diggity, only $20 in my pocket. The next vocalist started with the early lines of Psalm 23, living in the moment. No woman, no crime, everything is going to be all right, from Nassau, Bahamas. Diamond did ones about what's the time, what's the place, don't leave me out. Summer moon, age 26, wrote next song at 20. One taste baby, is not enough for me. Set me free, satisfy me. Cartier was rapping. Same game over and over, MJ, Ali expectations people put on me, reminisce in the sea. A server, also a vocalist, did come on over, Valerie, stand by me, and dock of the bay. Enable Mind did can't jump off and won't stop. He spoke of Doug Stanhope and Mitch Hedberg.  

Here, Alessia Cara

   Sometimes a song is so catchy that I like it right away. This is true with 'Here', by Canadian singer Alessia Cara. She is young, just 19 apparently. This song is about going to parties and not enjoying them. I've been there, asking what we are doing here. I do understand once again why the chorus section is often called 'The hook', as this is where one hears 'Oh here', along with 'What am I doing here?' it looks like she has plenty of other songs on Youtube. And the Wikipedia page said she had posted covers of songs as early as age 13. When I spoke of this song at the comedy club tonight after the show ended, it was with Blake, he said he hadn't heard of it. I was reminded of how there are some good Canadian singers before this one, as he mentioned Avril Lavigne.
   As usual, sometimes I get inspired to some jokes after hearing the comics before me. Or even with the introduction by International Falls. This led to a Steppenwolf reference.
   It was a slower day at work, but at midday I liked getting Subway sandwiches in the main conference room as there was a guest telling us about Junior Achievement. My sister was in this program.
   Also at the comedy club, International Falls did ones about green dress, green eye shadow, hide and seek with drunk, should have prepared better, rip out IUD, and have mom raise it. Cee-note did ones about anti-abortion billboards, Nebraska, babies are irritable, and boss critiqued his set. Blake did ones about sea monkeys, banana, check oil, Rain Man, little mermaid, undercover cop, and old man touchdown. Bus fare did ones about advertise the Bible, can we get a booth?, American flag not at half mast, Buffalo Bill liked music, ghost-busters, and Eleanor Roosevelt. Ragu did ones about red shirt at Target, birth of a nation, interview 3 ex-girlfriends, and imagine dragons. Red did ones about DTF, vacuumed, Christian science, Batman, Breakfast at Tiffany's, bipolar, and passion for life.  

Candy Cane Blizzard

   I had a 2 for 1 Dairy Queen coupon for blizzard treats and used it this weekend. I eat one at the store and take the other home. I had the candy cane blizzard tonight before going to the comedy club, and 1 of the 2 I get is whatever the blizzard of the month is. I liked how I didn't have to soften it for a half minute in the microwave oven. I know sometimes when I save it in the freezer for later it is rock-hard, even if it was there for just a day.
   I liked performing again at the comedy club, I was the fifth comic tonight. Oklahoma's lady liked the first one, about Taco Bell, I found out after the show. I did do one about 'Binders full of women', inspired by conversations with Mason City on a Facebook post.
   Normally I get roller grill items when I stop at Super-America on the way to the club on this night of the week, but this time I noticed there still was some slices of pepperoni pizza in the warmer so I had one of them. So claiming the free bag of Lay's chips can wait.
   Also at the comedy club, Ukulele did ones about haters, his doctor, and blood. Soap opera did ones about weddings, love triangle, Star Wars, Jabba the Hutt, 9 year old funeral, pearl harbor, and grandpa. The shorter of the brothers did ones about a triple-X store, pillow fights, Best Buy, 7-11, smokers and Pez, and free t-shirts. I wrote down what am I doing here, must be song lyrics I heard. Cee-note did ones about life is a party, lazy, disgusting, and hiring manager. International Falls did ones about cough syrup, online dress shopping, Benadryl, J-crew, codeine, holding babies, Tig documentary, and I want bangs. Mr. Pibb did ones about a TSA body scanner, dancing with the stars, pop tarts, last meal, scallops, and Groupon. Wisconsin dude did ones about a health-ed teacher, cold sore, donut, driver test, and Target clinic. Others were about Obama, Lebron James, free pie, robot arm, yoga, and a car wreck. Louisiana did ones about cut off at bar, hipster beard, catch a unicorn, broken up I'm fine, strawberries on salad, flashlight, breakup feedback, and palm a football. Sub teacher did ones about hunting wild boar, first avenue, bookworm, buying elections, killing people from sky, STD, urgent care, and friendships awkward. University accountant did ones about stay in pajamas, dic-pics worked, coupon at dinner, gluten free singles, pout, peekaboo, sleeveless dress, and wife beater. Worthington did ones about bath for god-kid, saw the donut table, hate speech riddle, forensic files, how he got caught, ping pong table, and craigslist. I also wrote 'Belarus', so there must have been a shoutout to this comic.
   Moving on. Extra murder did ones about broken auto door, Steve Harvey,handsomeness level, Saturday night fever, did she send you?, and renew vows. School bouncer did ones about hand check, step-kids, sex receipts, AK-47 bullet, Canada bank, NBA trophy, and Lebron. Oklahoma did ones about exotic dancer, sell insurance, Kia, apartment, cat, Field of Dreams, family gift exchange, jack and cokes, fun uncle, and send it through. Tetris did ones about mall train, Nic Cage, red light cameras, donut shops, Picasso, Weezer song, and traffic at rally. Wee bit did ones about jaywalking, gas station condoms, oysters, bought condoms, pawn shop stories, clear throat, advice at gym, angels in outfield, and NFL teams. Fever comic did ones about homeless carts full, dominatrix, ugly wife, cults,crowd work- compliance auditor, dueling, STD, sore throat, fundamentalist deer, and flashlight.

Nothing Compares To You, Sinead O'Connor

  This weekend marked the first anniversary of the passing of a friend in the comedy community, Bill Young. I am still learning things about him. One Facebook posting said he performed 'Nothing compares to you' by Sinead O'Connor at karaoke night. Because of this information, I decided to find this song on Youtube and listen to it for the first time in a while. I like the passion in it, even though I say this all the time about the music I like. It is because I am looking for music with passion as I respond to it better. It is a sad song about a relationship that has ended, but these stories still need to be told. This is evident in lyrics like 'Nothing can take away these blues'. Also the mention of being lonely. And mention of 'Went to the doctor, guess what he told me'. We likely have all met someone like this in our life. I know I did decide to give a good friend of mine, my 'Ohio friend', the name 'Peerless one' as she does seem to be in a class by herself when it comes to all of the friends that I have. The video to this song is mostly Sinead singing it right in front of the camera, another thing that proves to me how much passion it has besides of course how some tears go down her face. It did remind me of a song with a similar theme, and I did find it on Youtube as well, 'Head over feet' by Alanis Morissette. Alanis does the same thing but at times in the video she looks away.
   Besides going to the comedy club in the evening, I got plenty done today. There was the chores like dishes, trash and recycle, but also watching another Charlie brown DVD, 'Boy named Charlie brown' where he goes to the spelling bee. And there was getting more online articles into sheet protectors and into binders. I spoke of this to Mason City in a Facebook posting about a Bill Young article, and he made a joke about 'Binders full of women', a reference to what Mitt Romney said in a presidential debate in 2012.
   Also at the comedy club, Brawler did ones about visiting dad, captain America and Batman, and we grew up in the same home. Red did ones about DTF, internships, safe word, Marilyn Monroe, Batman, Hitler/Dahmer, marriage hustle, vacuum, wizardry, bipolar, and Kanye West. Fargo Moorhead did ones about cursed photo, desserts at office, Xanax from friend, get re-max, death cab for cutie, things that are too loud, shank a stoolie, coin star, and chicken rice lamb humans. Wee bit did ones about just felt right, gas station condom, studio apartment, oysters, take a hike, chuck e cheese, advice at gym, cartoon cat, NSA, and free couch.  

Sherlock Holmes Exhibit

   This afternoon I went to the science museum in downtown St. Paul to see the Sherlock Holmes exhibit. I knew it would be closing soon, early next month. It was known as the 'Clocktower mystery'. There was a visitor guide to solving the crime, same size as a brochure. There were 8 chapters that had clues, and at the end was a 'Consultation room' where somebody dressed in costume said who did it. I was reminded of a cliffhanger on a soap opera when I was young, 'As the world turns', it was a whodunit and I said 'Barbara Ryan did it'. I liked how there was a bio of the author of the book series, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, near the front. Before I was ready to leave the museum I did get two items in the gift shop. One was related to the exhibit, 'Quotable notables', a blank note card with quotes that stick. The other was a postcard in the shape of the state, listing different things the state is known for, including the movie 'Grumpy old men'.
   In the evening I did a Facebook posting weighing in on the passing of Bill Young, a year later. I did speak of how I became more serious about chasing down stage time, but I hated how it took losing two comrades to get me there. One of those who responded was a writing colleague from Houston. I ended it with saying the right place for me to be when thinking of a departed friend was the comedy club, same as last year. So I went to see Bathtub perform. Mr. Pibb was feature, and it was a contest night. Three contestants were in my ring of honor- Laundry, Long straw, and Fargo Moorhead. The first two advanced. I knew it would be tough to know who to vote for, as I could vote for just two.
   Also at the comedy club, Laundry did ones about dog whistles, funeral procession, and bakery prison hooker. Long straw did ones about childhood insult, field sobriety test, Rick Flair, and washing a Buick. Fargo Moorhead did ones about feminist blogger, $10 bill, double date, Vietnamese restaurant, and pot while pregnant. Mr. Pibb did this joke, Arnold Palmer, Anne Hathaway, Les Miz, dad kisses, TSA check, death row meal, brunch troll, hooters trivia, and IUD poking. Bathtub did ones about George McFly, last comic standing, Minnesota sports, a bag of pistachios, it wasn't Aquarius, activating rivers, call Montana, summon buffalo, energy healing room, dad's kale chips, white water rafting, visiting Iowa, rescue dog, outfits, swim move, and Instagram. Others were about Bob Barker, Omaha zoo, lock-down, crowd-rap about herbs, pepper plant, zombie apocalypse, cable wire down, fix step, bird nest, met at B and N, Mad Men show, crowd rap- go to dentist, call dibs, petting zoo at wedding, pet rat, and pull myself over.    

Ugly Sweater Contest

   I was back in the office today, and the theme was the ugly sweater contest to wrap up our week of holiday celebration. Something like 12 people entered, I do not have one. Call me crazy, but with clothing I try to get and keep only what I use. I liked what our 'Facility czar' did, he showed up in a football jersey. He is an ex-New Yorker, and his favorite NFL team is the Jets. It was a Tim Tebow jersey. There was some food left over from the previous day, I had some of the little potatoes and the rolls. No meat available though. So I went into the skyway and got a little package of sausage and cheese curds. The day went quick for me as I was covering for a colleague who was out of the office. I had the payoff report to myself, and there was over a hundred titles as I had my share from the previous day as well as all the new ones from today. On both bus rides I liked seeing people I know from riding. It was the science museum employee in the morning, and the attorney from a legal aid office in the evening. I will try my best to get to the science museum this weekend, and was advised Saturday as it sounds like they are closing early Sunday for a private party. The attorney did speak of her two kids, as I recall a 3-year-old son who is just learning to talk, and a daughter who is 8 months.
  In the evening I went to a micro-brew on the east side of St. Paul as there was stage time available. This would be the third show this year for me at a micro-brew. Resistable comic was hosting and fish noodle was closing. Fish noodle was adding to a list of places he has performed shortly after arriving. After the show I decided to tag myself on a photo from an October show it is with the bartender who tells me he no longer has this position. It is now on a USB flash drive which makes it easier to get a copy of this photo and replace the existing 'Ring of honor' photo as this one is a better one. We are sitting down in easy chairs at the venue.
   Also at the comedy club, Resistable did ones about sorry in bathroom, is this your daughter?, meet meat Applebee's, Pabst, reverse mortgage, Margarita-ville restaurant, selfie sticks, dildos, and too red for Target. Ding dong did ones about made a man cry, Ferris wheel at state fair, like we were married, get back to sleep, won't talk won't shut up, college fund, initiate, and communion. Others were about magic mushrooms, potluck, and Japanese anime porn. Fish noodle did ones about Donald Trump video, quit smoking, sense of smell, broke, HS prom lock-in, favorite swear word, almost in crash, bad day at work, samurai movies, Freddie Mercury, tongue prints, body shaming, sleeping in, arrested in Madison, Hunter Thompson, and glass klink at wedding.

Dick Enberg Card, Button

  I went to the post office in the afternoon and picked up mail there as I had the day off. The two items waiting were E-bay orders, a Dick Enberg trading card and a button. This is my favorite sports announcer, known for saying 'Oh my!' and this became the title of his book, which I do have. The button honors his induction in the baseball hall of fame this year. The trading card is from his time announcing for NBC.
   I went to the post office after I was at the office, as there was a holiday dinner. I like good food and I still wanted to have some. I did get noticed by some, two of them were senior leaders. There was a drawing for gifts but I didn't get any of them. I still recall a time when my employer gave us year-end bonuses, hard to believe it has changed this much.
   It was nice not having much to do today. I didn't feel like getting out of bed for a while so I didn't. But I was still out the door around midday as I wanted to get on the bus and be at the office around 12:30pm for the luncheon. And I was fine with walking home from the post office as I needed the exercise. I did get around to a few things I hadn't done in a while, like check my Linked-In profile. I did leave a message for my esteemed colleague from southern California, hopefully she responds soon as it would be nice to have a copy of her book that is sold at Jack in the Box locations. I hadn't been on this site in months, her connection request was accepted in mid-September. I am on Facebook, even Twitter, more, even said so in what was likely my first-ever posting on the site. I should probably do what I do with the Twitter account: check it once a week to stay relevant.
   I also went through the last 2 months of bank statements to see all listings seemed to be 'On the level'. I just had to refresh my memory on what the Pay-pal transactions were- usually paying my account once a month, or having to pay up front as it was an order from a foreign country. In the evening I went to eat at Taco Bell, and listened to 2 more comedy CDs, by the same comic. These were the ones ordered from Amazon last month, and one of them just arrived last week. One is with the Stand-up label and the other was from Holland, Inc. I recognized how some jokes were on both. Because of this, I didn't watch much of the Vikings-Cardinals football game, Vikings lost a close one. 

Cookie Decoration

  There was a repeat of the Monday event at the office where people were invited to decorate cookies. I had one of these, and was light on the green and white frosting as we were double booked on goodies for the day. There was birthday cake for the month happening at the same time, 2pm. I performed at two shows tonight as well.
   At the first venue, Long straw did ones about mom remarried, catholic singles, gay brother, delete Tinder app, and hit it quit it. Fancy comic did ones about ice cream, Hershey bar, willy wonka, night before Christmas, mayans, 2012, Christ on social media, footrace, talking bull, Confucius, and ice fishing. Software developer did ones about motorcycle accident, here's what happened, suspicious wife, unlocked phone, housewives matter, adopted from china, and leeann chin. Werewolf did ones about petting zoo, Seinfeld episode, drug test, public bathroom, and Panera bread. The taller of the brothers did ones about tiger at zoo, crips and bloods, play kazoo, and bike on train. Magic man did ones about man vs. food, shovel your walk, dad in nursing home, mission impossible, jaws, visiting angels, and staying in Wausau. The shorter of the brothers did ones about drop cat out window, chess, pawn shop, baby pictures, Best Buy, 7-11, donate sperm, and pet rock. Red did ones about DTF, internships, I ducked, vacuum, wizardry, Batman, Marilyn Monroe, Taylor Swift, and bipolar. Lunch lady did ones about a transplant, dating questionnaire, Michelle Obama, and cookie exchange. Mr. Pibb was the closer, but I left to get to another club.
   At the next club, a guitar player did ones about me and my friends, great white shark, status quo, first rule of game, fools fall in love, and never say die. next was a guitarist, wearing a hat, and did ones about just too close to love you. Another was about rain falling Sunday morning. Guitarist and drums did ones about lessons I will teach you, constant stimulation, and what makes you cry. Two guitar players did riffs. A violinist and guitars did ones about where is your love, didn't know when to stop, insecure and I was struggling. Others were about every day you walk into the street, bring love back to the city I am from, and vocalist said zipper was down. A lady vocalist, also a server, did sitting on the dock of the bay, and buy me a Mercedes Benz. Show runner did crying over a love I can't keep, you were real to me, and who do you think you are? I also wrote Jenny in Forrest Gump, and ice cold.    

Second Winter Hat

   When I arrived at the office this morning I had a winter hat waiting for me. There was a card included with it, an invite to the holiday dinner and party in the main break-room on Thursday. I have that day off already scheduled but I likely will show up just to eat. I've done this before. This is my second winter hat, already had one that looked like the style Charles Lindbergh might have. It was a giveaway item at a Minnesota Wild hockey game. Not sure what I will do with this one, unless it is the typical 'Use it when the other is in the wash' and the primary one likely is due to be washed.
   I did perform at the comedy club tonight. I started off with a response to Blake doing a history joke, specifically Abraham Lincoln. I liked it as I majored in history. I also did one about my recent entry on listening to 'Interstate love song', which has been well-read. It is a reminder of how my first published article was about the closing of the Montgomery Ward stores. I wondered, oh no! is this my destiny- to write about what (or who) is no longer with us? It may be purely coincidental, also looking at how deaths motivated me to start doing comedy and then get more serious at chasing down stage time.
   Also at the comedy club, International Falls did ones about she has another open-mic, river west in Milwaukee, a mic in hard-core band, don't know why I am here, 492 days no HR, and mom's day poem. Fish noodle did ones about the saw movie, camel cigarette coupons, quit smoking, and jealous of rock singers. Long straw did ones about Arby's drive-thru, I like baseball, buffy, Dr. Who, and delete Tinder app. All I had listed for Blake was 'fake Lincoln bio'. Fancy comic did ones about whistle while I work, best day I ever had, bowl of ice cream, willy wonka, white Christmas, mayans, 2012, pecan pie, my love of life, take shirt off, on top of the world, one in a million, and mind and body spirit center. Blind Side did ones about man-scaping, office job, long distance relationship, pop culture icon, sister has 5 kids, broken gumball machine, Oregon trail, and tennis lessons.

One Piece At A Time, Johnny Cash

   When I was driving home from the comedy club tonight I was pleased to find 'One piece at a time' by Johnny Cash. I recall hearing it on the radio one Christmas when I was in high school. It is likely known as a 'Novelty song' as it is about getting a free Cadillac one piece at a time while working at the car plant. It does lead me to ask myself what my favorite song is by this artist and I am not sure as there are so many. I like having a shirt I bought at a music shop that has Cash in a silhouette and it says 'Man in black'.
   While at work I got an email asking us to pick up checks from the H.R. office. It seemed odd as I have been on direct deposit for over a decade. Found out it was a 'Correction' on the recent problems with the 'Double dipping' related to becoming a separate company. My check was just under eight dollars and I put it in savings as that is what I normally do with small checks. As I said to the teller, this no longer would be enough to get a movie ticket at some theaters now.
   At the comedy club I did see school bouncer perform although he was not on the printed list. He did another joke about visiting Canada, sounds like he just got back. Bathtub was show closer, I spoke with him and his wife before the show. I liked the one about mail and garbage, it is relatable.
   Also at the comedy club, the button did ones about fruit salad, sincerity, feminist, hold door open, all monsters, and look edible. Red did ones about Austin Powers, Hitler/Dahmer, wizardry, bipolar, Disney princess, little mermaid, scientology, and Marilyn Monroe. Yemen did ones about puffer fish, dic-pic, who is that, snitches, and stitches. Happy Meal did ones about taking back a word, smart phones, abortion, not your choice, and activists. Whopper did ones about I'm real, social media, need the proof, drug deal, watch Becker, and 2 people on mattress. University accountant did ones about buying a bra, Amazon and Facebook, Katie Couric, and shot glass mugs. Tetris did ones about take over a state, red light camera, I'm happy, Hamilton musical, and Google her name. Fever comic did ones about airport sandwiches, cults, smile at work, dueling, excommunicated, and waiting in line. School bouncer also did one about the movie 'blind side'. Sub teacher did ones about kindergarten, North Korea ruler, wild boar hunter, urgent care, planned parenthood, and buying elections. The Wisconsin couple was there. The dude did ones about a Target walk-in clinic, doing yoga, build a deck, Youtube, spank-bank, and Obama-care. The lady did ones about bay area land, good linoleum, aspirin, hot brandy, birthing hips, rent out husband, bunny cookie candy, live in the now, and an 'inprov' class. Maryland did ones about a dollar store, chase squirrel, strip club, sex tape, ho's ain't loyal, he can swim, gas station, 2 blocks creepy, and yoga pants. Wee bit did ones about a trash can baby, gas station condoms, go to gym, ebola, hurricanes, pawn shop shows, Frasier reruns, and oysters. Perkins did ones about asthma, dislike, back barnacles, braces off, mom's bed, Laura Ingalls, co-ops, and show tunes. Bathtub also did ones about wife's job, Mad Men, Barnes and Noble, neutered dog, sister on video tape, Madonna, and pedometer.     

Shout Outs Galore

   I went to the comedy club tonight and performed, but even before I took the stage I was getting shout outs galore from most performers. I am pleased to get one, or even two, a show, but this was way more. Some of them were the same jokes from the contest last night, like the one about Taco Bell. There was definitely a new one about a date scheduled for today that was canceled, was told my date 'Had met someone else'.
   After the show I did go to YouTube, and I finally looked up a video of comedian Steven Wright. This comic was mentioned to me by a senior leader at my office, the one who has a daughter working in underwriting. It was helpful to see, it was a 10-minute 'best of'. There was plenty of one-liners, often about his own life, really dour, some of these things sound just like me.
    I watched another Charlie Brown DVD today, my annual viewing of the Thanksgiving special. I went to the library to print something, then to a Target and got two more DVDs. It was hard to find a DVD to replace the same movie on VHS but I did, it was 'Roger Rabbit'. The other was a Charlie Brown video, 'Christmas tales'. I think this is the one I just saw on Monday on the night of the anniversary show.
   I did exchange some text messages with a friend in St. Louis, but we were unable to find a time that works for both of us to talk on the phone. At midday I was free but she said 'Getting ready for work'. In the evening I said I was headed to a comedy show, then she said she wished my sets were online. I said some of them were. Last time we had communicated was in the middle of October, so I told myself it was time to try again.
   Also at the comedy club, opera singer did one about a group hug, I got a shout out. Others were about being a bartender, U of M lifeguard, hiking near river, broken phone, and out of data. Cee-note did ones about boss's TV joke, delivering pizza, weed no tobacco, and anti-abortion billboard. Blake did ones about hear it for me, and a shout-out. Others were about tip jar, vote with money, mind reading, laundry isn't hard, Yukon territory, and kindergarten graduation. I got another shout-out about Iowa football from opera singer. Long straw did ones about a hat guy, minor league baseball, and Ritalin. Wee bit did ones about sound proof casket, visiting Great Britain, pawn shop show, crowd work, non-profit, abortion, and high school teachers. Note page did ones about indoor cats, humane society, and 7 cats doesn't like them. Perkins did ones about phantom of the opera, braces off, heavens gate, broken pinkie toe, kick a statue, letterman credits, Laura Ingalls, co-ops, and Campus Pizza 2.0. Maryland did ones about slut shaming, oysters, an a-hole arrived, masturbation, protests at mall, eye appointment, Apollo Creed movie, and house in Detroit. Chalm Skinn did ones about Connecticut Yankee, Patriots game, Arizona tea, and jack and Coke.

Afternoon Date, Evening Contest

   This became an eventful day. I had to move up my visit to the post office as I had a date scheduled for 1pm. There was just one item as I had just picked up on Friday, and it was not for me. So I wrote 'Return to sender' and put it back in the mail. The date was at a coffee shop, and I picked up a shirt at a nearby Target before I went to the date. I liked having lemon poppy seed bread with the pumpkin spice coffee. It lasted one hour, and then we both had to leave to go do other things. I went to the library to print things, including a ticket to a Gopher hockey game next month vs. Michigan State. After I got back from the library I went to the grocery store, and then watched a DVD I had bought on Friday. It was 'Bon voyage, Charlie brown'. I chose that one first out of the three I bought in the past week as I had this one on VHS and wanted to junk the VHS copy, which I did after it was done. I checked my cabinet and as expected my VHS movies have dwindled, to about 50. Now of course I have a renewed interest in trying to junk more of them if I can find the same movie on DVD. I may just have to hope to luck out in finding one at a store, unless I try ordering them online from E-bay or Amazon as I have accounts with both. I did speak of Charlie Brown specials on the date, as some of them are childhood memories of going to see them at the theater. What surprised me was finding out I apparently don't have 'Frosty the Snowman' on video and I honestly expected that I did. Of the four most popular Christmas specials, it is the only one I don't have. The Grinch, and Rudolph, I have on DVD. Last time I had seen 'Bon voyage' was likely when I was in a relationship, and that ended more than two years ago. It is funny to watch on some level, I think mainly because Snoopy drives the car. Also the way peppermint patty acts around Charlie, and Marcie.
   In the evening I watched the first half of the Big Ten championship game from Indianapolis, Iowa led 6-3 at the half. Then I had to go to the comedy club for the contest, and when I got back I found out Iowa lost to Michigan State 16-13. I was one of eight performers in the contest tonight, and knew just 3 of the other 7. This included Fish Noodle and the Yemen native. I didn't advance but I never have advanced past the first round in a contest. I am just thankful for the stage time.
   Also at the comedy club, Fish noodle did ones about weird good mood, high school prom lock-in, favorite swear word, almost in car crash, can't afford this, drawing tongues, bad pun, and catfish eat arm. Pontoon did ones about hates weather, miss summer, pontoon parade, big sugar bush lake, and not good on resume. Others were about mom triple teamed, spider check, quit job, 20 high lighters, likes candy, and missing person ad. Former bartender did ones about piano lessons, taco-cat, Nebraska, GI Joe, dad's urn, give it a stir, and naked photos.
   Conga line was headliner. She did ones about not a farmer, paper boy, left handed, scissors, Subaru, vice grip, ugly gym teachers, fresh prince of bel air, gay marriage, bumper sticker, prove it, Salma  Hayek, Paula Deen, tramp stamp, where is my cat?, cat scratch fever, didn't know pregnant, holy water, squirt guns, magician at funeral, up a down escalator, Kenny G workout, been expecting you, skipping rocks, and mom in coffee shop. There was a call back to scissors, a shout out. Others were about message in mittens, red welts, blow hole, punching hole in wall, wiener mobile, smart car, truck nuts, hope for red light, MOA lost and found, hat cellphone umbrella, walk dogs, clown car, dog park, twerking, testa-roni, vasectomy, bad pun, it has 3 legs, seeing eye person, promote the CD, podcast sticker, phone booth, and basket on door step. Pontoon advanced tonight.  

Interstate Love Song, Stone Temple Pilots

    After hearing about the death of former Stone Temple Pilots frontman Scott Weiland I went to YouTube and decided to listen to 'Interstate love song'. I hadn't heard it in a while. It is a reminder of being in college, as the song was popular then. I know this is one of a few songs where I imitate what is depicted in the video whenever I see or hear it. This is no doubt true when getting to the part where Weiland is just tossing poker cards. I also like it because he is seen driving what looks like a Cadillac from the 1970s. I have the band's two albums that sold best- 'Core' and 'Purple'. Although 'Purple' does not list the album's name as it depicts a little kid riding apparently a dragon. Unless the character in the corner means 'Purple' in an Asian language as this art does make me think of Chinese new year celebrations. Another STP song I listened to while on YouTube was 'Big bang baby', as I liked most of the video being shot with a plain white background. I did see some friends posting last night on Facebook about how he was found dead on the tour bus right here in the MSP metro area, apparently Bloomington near the Mall of America.
   I had the day off from work but it was still a busy day for me. I finally decided to get up just before 11am and I went to the post office when I decided to venture out. I had 6 items to pick up there, 4 postcards and 2 CDs. It happened to be the same comedy CD. I had ordered two different ones by the same comic on Amazon. I had told the seller how one arrived right away and the other didn't, so another was sent.  I decided to take it to the comedy club tonight and gave it to another comic as I didn't want it to go to waste. After going to the post office it was on to KSTP as I was scheduled to be in the studio audience for Twin Cities Live. Olympic figure skater Scott Hamilton was on the show, in town to promote the figure skating championships that will be in St. Paul next month. On my way home after the show I stopped at a Target and got two more Charlie Brown movies on DVD- 'Bon Voyage' and 'Boy Named'. I still haven't watched the one I got last week.
   Yes, I was back at the comedy club tonight. I didn't go the last two Fridays to this venue as I was miffed about not getting picked and decided to go do other things. I wanted to support a comic who was doing the early show as the feature act, it was Worthington. There was no stage time available for me at that show but I did go on for the second one, the open-mic. Perkins was MC at the early show. I liked how the headliner did a joke about riding the New York City subway system as it mentioned a historical figure, German leader Otto von Bismarck. Tonight I tried out a joke inspired by Belarus asking me if I think his dating relationship would last.   
    Also at the comedy club, Perkins did one about braces off. Red did ones about Disney princess, inner demons, goal setting, Taylor Swift, Austin Powers, Marilyn Monroe, internships, 3-ways, mortal kombat, and Kanye West. Bus fare did ones about Eleanor Rigby, hook for a hand, Prince, and Willy Wonka. Another was about Enrique Iglesias and his 9/11 song. Long straw did ones about gyro for a zero, and a hat guy. Extra murder did ones about broken automatic door, and Saturday Night Fever. Wee bit did couch outside, weight lifting, boss doesn't do anything, watching porn, and she doesn't live with me. Fish noodle did ones about quit smoking, sense of smell, broke, and Santa os watching. Blind side did ones about broken gumball machine, Oregon Trail, sister has 5 kids, sweater vests, adopted, couldn't watch Simpsons but Cops. Note page did ones about ABCs, weekend custody, stole skin, and dragging chair. The button did ones about now a bad person, college dropout shirt, bear head on it. Others were about big office, o America needs me, ugly duckling, wild turkey, pelican, can't take compliments, home made valentines, mis-type web address, throw hot potato, you're not fat, and celeb in a bikini. Pontoon did ones about pontoon parade, big sugar bush lake, quit job, and there was a microphone problem. Blake did ones about stick figure family, spider in grapes, doing laundry, and kindergarten graduation.  

Double Dip Deductions

    My employer was spun off recently and there was a warning how there might be double dip deductions on our paycheck. This would have been the week of the separation as it happened on a Wednesday so there were two checks for that week instead of one. I still need to investigate to see if this happened to me as well. Looks like it did for a deduction to my savings account, but I don't mind that one as I still get the money somewhere. Sounds like it may be for some other things as well, and I do have the bus pass and health insurance deduction, along with 401-k. My guess is it wasn't a double dip for the taxes.
    I stayed in tonight except to go get dinner at Super-America. There was really no dinner food left, or at least I didn't want to spend time preparing anything as there is a box of Star Wars macaroni that I got at a Family Dollar. I used the free donut on my loyalty card and chose the egg nog filled donut over the jelly donut. I also got some Frito-Lay chips for the first time in a while as I wanted to get closer to getting a free bag. I hadn't done this lately as they no longer have the smaller bags, and I prefer single serving in order to help keep the weight down. I fell asleep while watching the Packers-Lions football game and finally went to get dinner around 8:30pm. I was supposed to have a date tonight but got a text message around 6pm and asked it be postponed, was told my date was too busy with meetings. So now it is on for Saturday.
   The football game on CBS meant there was no prime time episode of 'Big Bang Theory' tonight. I did watch the syndicated rerun at first, but then found out it is the one where Leonard sees his high school bully again and didn't want to see it. So I started shaving in the bathroom and kept the door shut. So I could still hear it and not see it, which was fine with me. I like most episodes of this show but not all.
   There was a Facebook posting about a video I was a part of in November in Brooklyn Park. I am in the ending part when we are singing. My takeaways were The Crow with a weed whacker and School Bouncer doing his LeBron James bit and getting no response to it. Hopeful to get more offers to be in videos much like this one.
  

Soul Meets Body, Death Cab For Cutie

    Recently I heard a song and had to pay close attention to some lyrics in order to write them down and look it up online later. This included 'Silence takes me too' and 'Melody softly'. The most likely answer was 'Soul meets body' by Death Cab For Cutie. I don't know this band all that well. Based on hearing it again on YouTube, I don't think I heard all of it the first time as the early part of the song is different, in my opinion slower.
   When I got home I had hoped to see the local news on at 6pm but it was not to be. The shooting in San Bernardino, CA led to extended coverage as a 'Special report'. The local news was on at 6:30 instead and the program note was how Wheel of Fortune would be moved to an overnight time, like 12:30am. I did perform at the comedy venue tonight. I like how there still was a show in spite of the news of the day. I go out to forget about life for a while.
   At the office we did 'Wii dancing' for the first time in a while. When I arrived the event coordinator was dancing to 'Funky town'. We had been doing walking outside or in the skyway. There was a low volume on the payoff report, which surprised me. Others we danced to included Mambo number 5, Song 2 (or woo-who), hot stepper, and kung fu fighting.
   Also at the comedy venue, spoken words did we can do this together. It was followed by Stevie Wonder made beautiful music, name it R. Kelly, CIA, Emmett Till, BET, 3rd eye blind, Gregory Hines, Sammy Davis, spit shines. Garret on guitar did customer service song, hydra, Hercules, hail before me, Paul Revere, cannot save you from yourself, how may I help you, intentions are true. Show runner did a Sunny in Philadelphia reference. Radio Ali did just move around, I know myself, get some static, that radio sound, raise it up, this life is crucial. Old man's money, generation answer with same question. Too many letters, not enough names, scream and shout. Reminds me of the blitzkrieg. Pandemonium, rich get rich, poor have more children, bite the hand that feeds you. I am seeing horse racing on TV, reminds me of my dad saying 'plug you better run'. Osiris, a vocalist, did Creep by Radiohead. Strange fruit, by Billie Holliday, and Riptide, 'sing the wrong words'. A guitar player did why don't we get drunk and screw. Show runner did hit the road Jack, stairway to heaven, all along the watch tower, and give me shelter. There was a trumpet player as well. Twisted knobs did work fingers to the bone just for cocaine, live for today, what matters most of all is you and I. Airway did bright lights of possibility, we in Minnesota, people want to see me, I can take it, I'm the same one.

Charlie In The Box

   I had heard on Facebook how the Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer special would be on tonight. I still like watching it, it is for kids of all ages. There are two things in particular that I like. One of them is the 'Charlie in the box', a misfit toy as he should be a 'Jack in the box'. He is the sentry and says 'Halt, who goes there' when Rudolph arrives with Hermey and Yukon Cornelius. But it was his later scene that really does it for me. When Santa arrives at the island of misfit toys Charlie is jumping for joy. But in his case you're hearing the spring he is on- 'Boing, boing'. I also like Mrs. Claus saying to Santa 'eat, eat'- as nobody wants a thin Santa. But he is worried about the weather, as many people are. Rudolph is a special thing to me as I once worked for Montgomery Ward, and Rudolph was created by a Wards employee. They did tell us the story at times while I worked there, and some of the older employees had Rudolph sweatshirts that were given by the company one year.
   It went well at the comedy club tonight. Long straw is still doing the smashed penny joke, and I did have a rebuttal ready but he was the first one on after the MC and he left before my set. I said I was familiar with 'Answer songs' like California Gurls (sic) by Katy Perry being a response to 'Empire state of mind' by Jay-Z. Buca di Beppo at Thanksgiving was what led me to being a Facebook photo that International Falls posted, likely as it was early, the one after my smashed penny rebuttal.
  At work of course it was nice to have a lower volume day than Monday. I made 8 more new files, we don't do this that often. I went to my 'work spouse' and had to ask about a box before opening it. I was told it was more file folders, it threw me at first saying it was from Staples but this was who we ordered from, not who made them. I said I didn't want to get yelled at for opening the box as I know sometimes things are sent to the file room (or vault) for safekeeping as it is largely a controlled entrance room, not everybody has a code to access it.
   Also at the comedy club, International Falls did ones about vomit twice very hot, 48 hours on Facebook, Tinder trolling, street harasser, Tig documentary, bangs, vacuum, and kill mice. Long straw did ones about Tetris, Dr. Mario, smashed penny, Tom Hanks, and fedora and cardigan. The crow did ones about 3 dudes in a car, swearing nephew, and n/a beer. Blake did ones about doing laundry, and intro himself. I-falls said it's not karaoke, to somebody in the crowd who spoke of ZZ Top and Chuck Berry. I say 'it's been done' a lot. But it fits. Just like 'thanks for the warning' and 'I've had enough'.

Charlie Brown 50 Years

       I stayed home tonight for two reasons. One of them was knowing the Charlie Brown 50th anniversary show would be on. The other was the snow. It is hard for me to give up a regular night at the comedy club, but those two reasons made my decision really easy. As a big Charlie Brown fan there wasn't all that much new information in this anniversary show. But I was left wondering which special was the one where Linus is waiting for the Great Pumpkin and a bowling ball shows up instead. It wasn't the 'Great Pumpkin' special as it was Snoopy as a World War One flying ace.
There was definitely not a bowling ball in that one.
    There are some specials I have never heard of and haven't seen yet. The Obamas were part of this tribute show, as well as various musicians performing songs that have been on the Charlie Brown specials. This included Boys 2 Men. I enjoyed watching it, as I liked hearing about the documentary that preceded the 1965 Christmas special. Then I saw the actual Christmas special, and I am not sure what was on after it but it was vignettes and had Snoopy dressed in a Santa costume. There was an ad for 'I want a dog for Christmas' which will be shown on the same network, ABC, in mid-December.
   I ate at Taco Bell tonight and it looks like they jazzed up the cardboard taco holders with words and pictures, I did get photos of this. I also went to check on my car and clear the snow off as there was a snowstorm today. It meant I arrived at work over 30 minutes late, and I was not even close to being alone. Odd how my normal bus now arrived 5 minutes early, I just missed it. And I didn't see another one for nearly an hour. So of course I was disgusted. The volume on the payoff report was lower than typical for a Monday, which is nice. The settled and paid in full letters were also low volume, just three. Two in my department were out of the office, and a third, my work spouse, did a half day. I confirmed how many vacation days I have left to use, it is four and a half. So I will want to figure out soon when to use them, even though I can carry some over I am used to needing to use them before year end.

American Inventions, Time/Life

    I needed to get trash bags at the grocery store and decided to get a special magazine I had seen on display as well. It is called 'American Inventions', published by Time/Life. The cover has various photos, including a doll (probably Barbie), a baseball, Tom Edison, Henry Ford, a traffic light, a teddy bear, a zipper, blue jeans, and a hamburger. I have read through some of it already and some of it is familiar with what I was taught in history classes- my college major- or what I have learned on my own. It is good that it covers a wide variety of inventions, as there are seven sections. They are: building America, the office, food, recreation, health and medicine, apparel, and technology. I liked seeing mention of the polio vaccine. I had heard older generations talk about knowing people who suffered from polio, and I am thankful to know it mainly as a history book item. It is nice to say 'There is a vaccine for that'. I said the same when Dad spoke about being ill and unable to accept awards at 8th grade country school graduation. Two of those diseases- measles and mumps- I had to get a vaccine for before I was able to take a job in a nursing home. Some of the more recent ones- like in the technology section- I am not quite as familiar with, especially when I don't use all of those gadgets. I try to keep it simple.
   I am not sure what is wrong with the kitchen sink as it is slow to drain again, even after putting Drano in it recently, and the garbage disposal doesn't run when turned on. I still got the dishes done today, but it likely took a little longer as I was dumping the water in the bathroom sink. I also got the laundry done, and after having dinner at home I went to the comedy club. Opera singer was MC, and a guitar player was the final act. 
   Also at the comedy club, Opera singer did ones about no jellyfish, BYO service, no phone for a week, hiking near river, beer-tender, and back by dumpsters. Maryland did ones about like a ninja, Obama, turning 30, chase a squirrel, strip club, pay to watch violence, it's called going outside, and water on Mars. Werewolf did ones about can I kiss it?, petting zoo, and drug test. Chalm Skinn did ones about bubble wrap on road, flying to D.C., and jack and gin. Ice cream did ones about a scooper, 7th last thanksgiving, and develop trail mix. Note page did ones about bleaching, joke is on them, comb over, socks, and Best Buy blue-ray. Long straw did ones about plot to resurrect, smashed pennies, fedora wearers, and Big Bang Theory. Yemen native did ones about mom got divorced, McChicken, cheating wife, Jay-Z, play with toothbrushes, and catch with feet.