If I Could Surround Myself with Advisors

Thinking about this today, if I could surround myself with advisors, I would love to consult:

1.  Arthur Freed - the "right man in the right place", who united a supreme team of cameramen, dancers, choreographers, musicians, directors, actors, set & costume designers for the best Hollywood musicals.
2.  Edith Wharton - famous novelist, social critic, diarist... not as rigidly structured as Emily Post.
3.  Frederick III (German/Prussian Emperor) - who believed that the people had irrevocable rights.  He lived too briefly.
4.  Hubert Humphrey - debater, humanitarian, Senator and Vice President, who really cared about the people and probably would've done a better job than "veneer" JFK.
5.  Alan Watts - British philosopher who brought simple Eastern wisdom to Western materialistic cultures.
6.  The Right Honorable Bertrand Russell - a wise social critic and philosopher.
7.  Prince Albert, consort of Queen Victoria - an upstanding modernist, a leader of anti-corruption, and a loving father.
8.  Benjamin Franklin - industrious inventor, journalist, diplomat, publicist, spin-doctor, mastermind... all with common sense.
9.  Preston Tucker - inventor who was too good for his era and would've done a better job than General Motors.
10. Jack Paar - humanitarian, anti-corporate media, excellent conversationalist & talk-show host uniting varied people.
11. Edward R. Murrow - one of the last honest news broadcasters, who did real investigating on WWII and the Red Scare, among many other controversial issues, and wasn't afraid to stand up against corrupt and/or corporate media, so that the truth was reported.
12. William C. Paley (only during his years forming CBS--not afterwards) for his groundbreaking rein and urbane style.
13. Charles Pratt - loosely called the Robin Hood of turn-of-the-century robber-barons, educationalist.
14. William Steinway - who felt that companies should take care of--not just profit from--their stakeholders and employees, who generously built a handsome "company town" that included freedoms not found in Henry Ford's.
15. Abraham Lincoln - (obvious)
16. Anne Rice - sparklingly creative author of amazingly well-detailed mystery novels.
17. Irving Falberg - the rarely-sleeping first genius artist of the original grand MGM movie studios.
18. James Baker - served/advised presidents since Gerald Ford in 1975 until now: White House Chief of Staff, Treasury Secretary (costing taxpayers $100 billion to bail out banks in the 1980s), and Secretary of State.  Then, he got rich working for Enron--one of the biggest "pyramid scam" companies.  Nonetheless, as a master of negotiation, he's a political tactician who accumulates power like a pickpocket.  He'd keep the advice "well-rounded".
19. Robert Morgenthau Jr. - an upstanding moral "duty first" government attorney (especially in NYC), whose male predecessors were pillars of morality, amidst a sea of political ineptitude and corruption.
20. Cyrus the Great - (founder of the Persian Empire) a "just and worthy law-giver" (per the Greeks, whom he conquered), a political genius, an excellent benevolent manager of people (anti-enslavement), a humanist, an innovative builder/agriculturalist, who respected cultural individuality and possessed humility.
21. Nigel Lythgoe - the gentleman who created a dance talent show SYTYCD (where folks aren't "voted off", but instead collaborate for artistic teamwork), and who gives concise accurate compliments and constructive criticism.
21. Christopher Lloyd - (and I'll explain because you may not know him) a screenwriter who's done amazing TV comedy and simply must have wit, creativity, optimism, silliness and good spirit.  He wrote for "Golden Girls" (which ran for 7 years, getting 2 Emmys, 3 Golden Globes and the show rated among top-10 highest-rated programs).  Then, he wrote for "Frasier" (which ran for 11 years as one of the most successful spin-off series in TV history as the most critically acclaimed comedy series of all time--earning 37 Emmys and 2 Golden Globes).  Then, he co-created and writes for "Modern Family" on the ABC network (which has run for 6 years, winning 5 Emmys for Best Comedy Series and a Golden Globe).  *Incidentally, its interesting to see how the other big networks who had been offered "Modern Family" had rejected it based on nit-wit corporate decisions, instead of by talent--which is what TV is about and what draws revenue.  The choices they did make, instead, all failed quickly.  Nothing new in that regard, lol.

My Own Favorite Facebook Posts from 2013

Live life without fear (like Alan Watts says!)  Take some risks.  Go for the shots.  Life is short and great.  To all my friends that have shaped me into the person that I am today, thank you.  

I was delighted by 2 things: the new liquor/wine shop DELIVERS!  And the grocer had jars of "Super Colossal Spanish Queen" stuffed olives.  

Stepping out of my apartment, I smelled cooked bacon.  Reaching the street, I caught the crisp aroma of a fire from someone's fireplace (like freshly sparked matches).  It made my commute through frosty snowflakes more comfortable!

I went to 3 stores for tonight's dinner of chicken (layered with prosciutto, sage leaves, and spiced mozzarella; sautéed in minced onion/garlic/butter) alongside a brioche mushroom tart in wine sauce, with butternut squash and charred Brussels Sprouts!  Lewis arrived and said, "Oh thanks, but I have to eat light tonight."  I replied sweetly, "To sound more appreciative, you might break out the lube and say 'Thanks darling, lets burn calories'!"

After dealing with sh!theads at work all day, it was a JOY to watch young men from the Manhattan School of Music Jazz ensemble at Dizzy's Club.  Their facial expressions and energy were fantastic!  Best part: in the men's room, the swanky saxophonist massaged a urinating trumpeter, who said, "Oh yes, lower, lower--go more to the front!"  The fey young bass-player and I exchanged knowing glances!

After prowling thru Trader Joe's, I arrived at the cashier, Denise, who asked how my Columbus Day was?  Great, since I'm away from work, but I wished I had found some hard cider.  She summoned a coworker who broadly smiled, saying they had just gotten some in this morning!  He brought them from the back, and I bought 2 kinds.  (Denise also wished she could dine with me; I'm making pumpkin ravioli in pumpkin soup/sage butter sauce with fresh shaved asiago, then some chix in peachy hot sauce alongside squash)!

A nice gentleman in line at the Deli (waiting for the hapless clerk to finish his methodical slicing) saw that I had a shopping list and politely offered me to step ahead of him. "I'm retired, and it gives me more of a Zen moment", he said.  I graciously accepted.

Wow, when I got home, my whole apt was lit in this amazing orange glow. Peeking out window, I saw tonight's amazing pumpkin-orange sunset!!  I lit the bedside scented candle, poured some wine, and sat on the bed watching the colors change! It was a wonderful Zen moment.

"2 boys, 1 girl on Subway": across from me was a young couple, rather intimately involved.  At a certain stop, the guy got up and stood away from her.  Another young man hopped onto the train, searched for the girl, hurried over and sat next to her.  They kissed, held hands and chatted like lovers.  The girl gave all her attention to #2.  The first guy remained uninterested, like a total stranger (but with a secret smile). Best part: the astonished faces of other nearby passengers.

With a lovely day off, I took Lewis' advice and enjoyed Rainey Park.  Seeing the slide unused, I took myself down it a few times!  It felt great to do that again!!

As I stand in the kitchen, before my run, the breeze tickles my leg hairs as I prep for tonight's rutabaga/turnip/cilantro mashed pots! A charred sausage/cannellini/tomato/herb cassoulet is also on the menu! I may be a sweaty mess when I stop at the wine shop later, but they're always happy to see me.

I was in a particular store (names omitted to protect the idiotic) and heard the manager tell his salesmen (standing around in oversized suits, scratching their @sses) to be sure and show off the "new luxury" display in the VIP room. Like sheep, they brought each new customer directly to that room--overcrowding them in it! Where's the elegance in that? Some salesmen had the poor manners to exit the room, chewing food that they grabbed and wiping crumbs off their lapels. Unprofessional cannot masquerade as anything else.

Last night, Lewis Pierre and I saw Shakespeare on Broadway "Twelfth Night". Such comedy, great set (with onstage seating) and amazing delivery of lines, costumes, movement and song. So funny to watch the (historically accurate) men in "drag", too!  Those famous actors are all gems!

I was attempting to cross E53rd St, but was held back 10min for Presidential limousine (flags on the bumpers) to pass. Typical American extravagance, the motorcade involved 21 cars/SUVs and 6 motorcycle cops in front and 8 in rear. Apparently, O was returning from having just gone up 53rd Street an hour earlier. (maybe he forgot something?)

The beginning of autumn was heralded on one treetop!  

I went with Gretchen and Lewis to see an outdoor movie at Bryant Park: "Invasion of Body Snatchers".  Gotta love that 1950s innocence: 1.) after noticing alien pods, they pause for martinis; 2.) the oil deliveryman has free access to everyone's basement; 3.) after buying gas for his car, he says "put it on my tab".

Lewis placed this order 2 days in advance for my favorite summer cake (from Lady M Confections on East 78th): Strawberry Shortcake! (their's is made with superfine flour imported from Japan, which produces a vanilla sponge cake unlike any other)... and a musical candleholder!

While we munched on fried shrimp, Rhode Island scallops, and skate in saffron stew (and lovely glass of Counoise from Côtes du Rhône), I giggled at the "nature sign" above us, talking about the "Squirting Cucumber" lol.  As we left, the waitress said to me, "You're not from New York, are you?  Where are you from?  You're so nice!"  I surprised her, being a native born-and-raised NY boy.

On our way to the Highline Park, we saw Iron Chef Bobby Flay pass us on the sidewalk.


I found a museum... a few blocks from Lewis' apartment. The rain broke as we neared it: a lovely, restored 4-story home, around the corner on 107th St, the Nicholas Roerich Museum is FREE and so AMAZING!!

Gretchen and I intended to partake in tonight's Museum Mile festival, but the lines were unmanageable.  Instead, we dined at Demarchelier: pâté & steak with béarnaise, washed down with Brouilly.  I took a cab home, where Lewis greeted me in his new Kenzo Takado blazer (and nothing else)!


Shared dinner (and many many drinks) with our doctor, Howard Scheiner, at Chez Josephine.  At 11:30, a guest pianist played amazing Gershwin and Phantom, while a woman danced on a table and our fav waiter, Denis, issued free drinks and discussed his latest road trips!  Dr. Scheiner thinks Denis has a crush on me, but Lewis and I beg to differ.

Waiting in line at Leather Spa (the Plaza Hotel locale is calmest) behind a young man, coming from gym and looking--literally--very hot. As he dutifully bent down to pick up his bags, the young fey counterguy and I got distracted. After a long pause, and after the fellow left, I turned and apologized to the older man waiting in line behind me. He replied flamboyantly, "No worries, your delay gave me more time to admire, too!"

A luscious 3-scoop sundae at Van Leeuwen: Espresso, Gianduja, and Chocolate--consistently the BEST chocolate I ever had--Michel Cluizel 99% infini noir.

It was so great to sit under this canopy of trees for the performance.  We saw young ballerinas in white, practicing near the Met Opera house, while the musicians for this Chinese play tuned all their authentic instruments.

Enjoyed a fabulous Memorial Day dinner at Bar Boulud with our friend and restauranteur, Jean-Claude Baker.  We drank rosé and admired the passersby.  Loved the veal pâté, pork belly, charred duck, and ELIXIR (white coffee, chocolate hazelnut sablé, dulcey crémeux, and hazelnut ice cream).  It made up for dealing with troublesome work (beyond my control) through the weekend!

Last night, Trevor (from Canada), Lewis, and I saw "Newsies" musical on Broadway.  I loved their amazing gymnastic dance moves and music!  Trevor snapped pix with all the dancers at the stage door.  Lamb chops for dinner and some chilled Grand Marnier digestifs made us forget the heat wave.

Lewis and I use the same dentist, and we're chummy with him.  As the friendly hygienist did my check-up, she complimented, "You've been really good at keeping your mouth open.  Are you getting tired?"  I said, "I'm okay: I've been practicing in preparation."  "Lucky Lewis!" she laughed.

Mother's Day is complex for gays. A good portion have their moms crying with pride (maybe a true man at his side, the possibility of grandkids). A good portion are crying because their moms disowned them. As for me, I recall the Plant Sales for Mom, the Arts & Crafts I made from Nursery School thru 5th for Mom, the breakfasts in bed, the brunches, and the gifts I'd pick out. Those are the fond memories that make me smile, because I am one of the guys disowned by his mother for being who I am. 

After a disgusting day at work, I joined Pierre for a juicy glass of Gewurztraminer from Danny Meyer's wine list at The Modern, then a soothing lecture at MoMA.  They had a reception, so there was lots more wine.  I got a compliment from a guard: "You're so nicely dressed, I thought you worked for MoMA."

Our trio moved outside with a creamy slab of Reblochon, pâté, fresh-that-morning-mozzerella and mini heirloom tomatoes, with still-warm-when-bought baguette!

We could hear shrieks from the city's red-tail hawks... despite the gaggle of Central Park bird-watchers nearby.

Sometimes it's nice waking early on a day off: you get errands done when places are empty (except for the "slow people" in line at the Post Office).

Tonight, I discovered "Delin prestige de bourgogne". This triple-cream cheese, in creamy slabs, defies description! 

Yes it began as a drippy day, but by Happy Hour time, the setting sun peeked out and turned the clouds pink.  By the time the oysters, lobster sliders, and fried clams came, Lewis was pacified.

I called the personnel who took jobs in "Customer Service" at 6:50, knowing that they closed at 7PM.  Naturally, I was kept on Hold for 10 minutes, probably hoping I'd hang up, but I tenaciously hung on.  At 7pm, I dreaded a "hang up", but I actually got through to someone--who clearly was time-effecicent with me at her quitting hour.  Thankfully, all ended well for me... the savvy consumer.

As if the subway wasn't packed enough, a guy carried on what looks like a bunch of freshly-cut lumber!  (Ah, always something to see!)  He was real happy about it, too.  Those of us having to make room for his wood were less enthusiastic... (no, not THAT wood)!

Enjoying my own blend of iced tea in trendy sippy cups (given to us by Pierre): it's a mix of Harney & Sons Ginger Peach and an herbal/flower petal tea that we bought near Château de Chenonceau in France.

Almost time for the Oscar Awards, when all these professional, schooled, experienced actors--who learn to anticipate, memorize and deliver lines in a specific time frame--will flub, stutter, ramble and forget names... during acceptance speeches!  

A coworker--supposedly a friend--had many opportunities to help me, but by his repetitive choices to "not act" (or to pretend he didn't know what was going on), he allowed my life to be much worse for awhile. When I questioned him on it, he flubbed non-answers at me. Today, he got fired from his comfy job, due to his own ineptness. And I noticed that no one had anything to say in his defense…

My Boo savors our Zen-inspired hotel room (we DID get an upgrade, when he asked for a room on the same floor as the gym).  Gotta love Public House (previously the Ambassador Hotel)!  We savored visits to the Library Cafe for house-baked Jean-Georges pastry and handsomely-made smoothies.

My team at work made exemplary results, starting the year prosperously.  So, I arranged for us to dine at Smith & Wollensky during affordable Restaurant Week.  Yummy!  

Got my "wellness" results today: thankfully healthy (can always get more exercise with Lewis). Also got compliments on my Shakudō Damascene filigree cufflinks!

Tonight, Lewis and I are going to see "Wicked" on Broadway, but while "pre-gaming" at my place, we discovered that if you ignite citrus peel over your cocktail, it adds a luscious flavor! Try this at home!

Yes it's late, but since we have the day to ourselves tomorrow, Lewis and I are staying up, watching TV and making handmade dumplings!

A benefit of cozily staying in tonight for the holiday is beginning the New Year with "a bang"!