Mentally Replaying: The below.

A 4.5 year relationship with a man who knew exactly what he wanted. Saw him through advances in his work, expanded project with the Camarilla and testing for black sash in his martial art. Traveled with him and other martial artists to South Korea.

Held several offices in the Cam, supported and served the folks who put me in the office. Twice suspended for reasons I don't regret. Kept logistics in good order, told fun stories.

Wrote up a storm, esp for games. Also wrote half a novel, several short stories, articles (even go published) and papers on random stuff.

Encouraged to keep writing by other writers.

Directed short pieces and plays to some acclaim (at least from the people who saw). Accused of being a good actor.

Year and something relationship with a man with whom there was formerly a supportive and encouraging friendship.

Warming, cooling and then warming again friendships with a variety of damn creative people who challenge and inspire me.

Been to England & Scotland and found my love of big cities holds strong (though, even if Edinburgh isn't that big it's really an amazing place).

Traveled with family through much of Western Mexico & made them take me to Mexico City last time. Walked down the Way of the Dead.

Produced a benefit concert for victims of hurricanes Katrina & Rita.

Performed with the USC Band under the baton of John Williams.

Courtney Love called me pretty.

Trent Reznor agreed to a picture with me and shook my hand.

Neil Gaiman accepted my thanks with thanks of his own.

Shared a dinner table with Maynard James Keenan and Billy Howerdel.

Tony Kushner strenuously encouraged me to direct.

David Sedaris took me outside to tell me a story over a smoke.

Driven to San Francisco solo multiple times. Nearly got myself killed once; got myself out of that too.

Dated a girl long distance, spending several months thinking marrying her was not out of the question, merely out of the law.

Educated myself on the major wine varietals, notable regions and complementary pairings.

Lost 60 pounds.

Traveled over 2500 miles to have tea with a friend.

Managed (so far) to not get pregnant or pick up an STD.

Tried acid, mushrooms, meth and pot and largely prefer drinking alcohol and smoking tobacco. Coffee trumps all, though.

Gone to retreats for kinky women and the women who like to get beat up by them.

Attended the Gathering of Nations. Visited Taos & the pueblo outside. Walked through the Painted Desert in sleet and wind.

Climbed arches in Utah's Arches National Park.

Received a thank you note from Pres Carter for a letter I sent him.

Defended friends in an antagonistic crowd.

Surprised friends with presents, with and without cause.

Fed friends and family.

Survived a crash that totaled my car, spent the night alone and was calm when the police found me.

Was promoted from editing to writing copy. Lauded for high quality in each position.

Taken a burlesque dancing class.

Kept all bills paid and kept myself fed and housed for over a year without a job.

Hiked up a small mountain in Denali National Park.

Tromped through Calaveras National Park to see the giant Sequoias.

Attended Folsom Street Fair.

Sought refuge at St Andrew's Abbey many times.

Provided food, safety, warmth and succor to they who needed it.

Moved to New York.


...all because I could.