Friday
Toney went to the grocery store before I even climbed out of bed, and was spinning fantastic tales of teeming crowds and impossible traffic upon her return. I’d wanted to go to Border’s books today, mostly to get out of the house, but also to look for a Bentley Little novel or two.
“You don’t want to do it,” she said, “I’m serious, you don’t want to go anywhere near that mall.”
I’ve been known to take such proclamations as a challenge, but something in her voice, and the rate of profanity being used in the horror stories, told me I’d be wise to heed her warning.
But, what were we going to do? Stay home all day – again?! It’s nice as an occasional novelty, but I’m not wired for such things on a regular basis. I’d lose my mind if I didn’t at least get out for an hour or two. The walls were closing in on me, maaan.
“Well, let’s go somewhere for lunch,” I said.
“We can’t eat every meal in a restaurant, like Woody Allen,” Toney said.
“Not every meal, just the next one,” I answered.
So, we ended up going to Bennigan’s, which is nowhere near the mall. I had the American burger (damn right!) and it was excellent. That place is wildly inconsistent, but I hit the jackpot on Friday. ‘Cause the shit was good.
And even though it was the only time I was outside the house all day, it was enough. When we got home the mild panic I’d been feeling was gone, and I was able to embrace another afternoon of fat-pants sloth.
I finished a super-secret update for VIPs, sent out the email, spent some of my birfday money at Amazon (I bought all eleven 2 for $10 CDs I’d been eyeing), and also used up some of my preliminary downloads at the excruciatingly hip eMusic.
So, on the same day I ordered both Billy Joel, The Stranger, and In the Aeroplane Over the Sea by Neutral Milk Hotel. And how’s that for diversity?
At eMusic I also picked up the Bon Iver album, and the new solo record by Glenn Mercer, from the late, great Feelies. Oh yeah.
We had homemade beef stew for dinner, enjoyed a little bourbon afterwards, then drank a few Sierra Nevadas while polishing off the last two episodes of Mad Men season one. And here’s my in-depth review of that show: good, not great. Am I wrong about it?
Saturday
No way I was staying inside for a third day, it was simply out of the question. The Secrets were lobbying for Chinese food for lunch, and Toney tried to resist. But it sounded mighty good to me too, so she threw up her hands in defeat.
“This has got to stop,” she said.
“After this meal,” I assured her.
So we had, as my Dad derisively calls it, fish heads and rice, then went to Border’s, finally. There I bought The Academy, the new one by Bentley Little, a copy of The Black Dahlia for $2.99 off the bargain table, and a book about the Beatles for the Secrets.
Somebody in the comments recommended The Return, and I was thinking about buying it as well. But the only copy they had on their shelves looked like someone had swallowed it whole, then shit it out. So, I opted to hold off.
I also noticed an expensive coffee table book about the Clash, and could actually feel Joe Strummer spinning in his grave. And they had an interesting book of posters reproduced from old issues of Mad magazine. But I flipped through it, and saw nothing I can’t live without.
Whatever.
Sunday would be my birthday, and also the kick-off of another work week. So, Toney suggested we return to the bar at Cooper’s on Saturday, for a couple of celebratory snob-beers. Needless to say, I agreed without hesitation.
So, on our way home we stopped at Blockbuster (I hadn’t been inside that place in a year), and told the boys to pick a movie to watch while we were out. They went with Drillbit Taylor (who the hell knows?), and Toney and I left for our allotted two beers each.
And here’s the current lineup of drafts at Cooper’s. I started with a Victory Hop Devil on the hand-pump, then a Corsendock Abbey Pale Ale. The latter was served to me in something along the lines of a martini glass, and wasn’t nearly as tasty as the former.
We checked on the boys a couple of times, and they were doing fine, so I suggested we stop at another bar near our house, for “one more.” There I had a Guinness, and Toney chose a Sierra Nevada.
It was fun. For years Toney and I couldn’t go places alone, unless someone trustworthy was visiting and could watch the kids. Only recently have we been able to sneak away on Saturdays, and it’s almost like the Atlanta years, concentrated down to one-hour clumps.
After dinner we played Nickelodeon Scene It with the Secrets, and I know way too much about that stuff. I’m no expert, but am pretty damn close. It’s been seeping into my brain, almost non-stop, for almost thirteen years now. Oh, I know me some Nickelodeon.
And after everyone called it a night, I stayed up and watched 24: Redemption off the DVR. Again: good, not great. Any opinions on that one? I liked that they took the action out of L.A., and it had its moments. But not enough of ’em, I think. Agree, or disagree?
Sunday‘s not really worth documenting, because nothing happened, then I went to work. I turned 46 that day, which concerns me. Forty-six!? How did it happen so quickly? Holy shit on a handrail!! And just as every one of my teachers told my mother, I’m still tragically immature and not living up to my potential.
But there’s something to be said for consistency, right?
Yep, that was the weekend, in two scoops. Tomorrow I’ll tell you about the best $10 I’ve spent lately, my pending return to the classroom, and a conversation with the T-Shirt Lady.
And this time I won’t make any 3 am promises, that can so easily be derailed (as Phil Hendrie might put it) by skull-hammering doucheness.
See ya tomorrow, my friends.
First?
I’m #2. But, I’m always the shit anyway.
Top 10?!
Woo Hoo- Top 10!
Top 5.
Yeah!
46? You old cocksucker. I remember (I think…) when you wrote about turning 40. And I remember reading the actual WVSR paper zine about, what, 10 years ago? 12? I’m an old bastard too, I guess… I need another shot.
Joey Jo Jo
7?
Top 10!!!
Wow 3rd! It’s been a while.
As for 24 Redemption, a liitle slow at first, then it picked up when Jack killed the guy by breaking his neck with his legs. Jack did get off a couple of pretty good zingers at the UN worker/soldier….”go hide with the other children.”
The Clash….London Calling ROCKS!
why would you get eleven 2 for $10 CDs? why not ten or twelve? or was it one of those deals where they really are just $5 each, and they’re trying to sucker you into getting just one more?
I will raise a belated glass in your honor Mr. Kay.
Kristin, The final cost was $54.99, so I don’t know how they figured it. I was prepared to take it up to twelve, if necessary.
Top 20 wow!!!
I love the new math…..
Happy Belated, btw….
“Mad Men” is decent. I think, deep down inside, I watch it because I hope to see Don’s wife and/or that redhead from the office naked.
Happy Belated Birthday!
Mad men and 24 both are a little sucky now. I like how the action is heating up on “Prison Break” though. They three a good twist in the plot this week. I almost thoght we were going to see a Linda Evans/Joan Collins battle kick off between Gretchen and Rita.
Jeff – re the Corsendock Abbey Pale Ale – you may just care for Belgian Tripels in general. If you get a chance, try the Corsendonk Pater (Abbey Brown Ale) – I bet you will like it better. I sure do. And, yes, I am an insufferable beer snob.
Return to the classroom? Going back to college? Taking an art class? Parent teacher conference? My curiosity is officially piqued.
Good Afternoon Surf Reporters………
my only contribution to today’s discussion(s) regards Mad Men. I’d classify it as a little better then good(really good?) but not worthy of great.
When I was on vacation in Florida visiting my folks, I implored my Mom to watch the latest episode with me.
She gave it about twenty minutes, turned towards me and said “So this whole show is about drinking, smoking and fucking around?”
Yeah, Mammy pretty much summed that up right.
Hey! I recognize those bunker cam tits. They photoshopped them so they look like mine.
The conversation with the TShirt lady concerns me. Will my shirt arrive on time? I’m planning on wearing it on my pending return to the classroom, which is January 5th.
I was at Mohegan Sun in CT on Saturday night and thought I’d try a few of their local brews. Sachem Ale and Seasonal brew.
Oh, what a mistake. Almost like turpentine. And I love a good local brew. Very disappointing.
Miller Lite? What the shit is that?
“You are every age you have ever been.” So if that is true…you can be four tonight and pee the bed. Or you can be ten and keep trying to look up Toney’s dress. Or you can be fifteen and keep convincing yourself the more self entertaining you do, your hormones will balance and your acne will go away. Or you can be twewty nine and worry if anyone will still trust you after next year. Or you can be fourty six and wonder… “holy shit on a handrail”…W T F just happened?
In twenty years you’ll look back on all this and laugh. Hopefully without your teeth falling out and hopefully your acne has returned. HBBD.
I wonder if the conversation with the t-shirt lady involved long sleeve shirts????
Jeff Happy belated Birthday! My Nephew is the brewmaster at woodford’s:http://www.woodfordes.co.uk/ & they make some Brilliant beers especially their “Nelsons Revenge” Its not available in the States but if you let me know where to send it I’m sure he could rustle up a sample pack for the Birthday boy!
Happy belated birthday, Jeff. Welcome to 46 – I’ve been here since June.
Oh, Tadpolegal, I’m wondering the same thing. I’ve been lobbying for long sleeves the last 2 times with no success. *sigh*
Happy Tuesday, Surfers!
Knucklehead- Maybe there will be a “Christmas Miracle” this year!
Happy 46th, Jeff. I’ve been here with knucklehead since Oct. Heading fast toward 50 now, huh? urp
The Feelies are no longer “late”. They’re back together! And if the show I saw in Boston in October is any indication, they’re as great as ever.
In The Aeroplane over the sea is great, but I cannot get into Bon Iver. Just listened to Flume and now I want to punch a hipster.
Oh, and Happy Birthday, Jeff! Thanks for another outstanding year of bringing consistent laughs! Your next hearty, gay beer is on me!!
I, too, hit that Amazon thang. Diversity? A little… Benny Goodman, Rage Against the Machine, Velvet Underground and Parliament. And, of course, that same Billy Joel album.
Regarding beer, I sure sat up and paid attention when that phrase “Hop Devil on the hand pump” leapt off the page; I need to find a place that has that.
Greg, I don’t think Corsendonk Abbey Pale Ale is a tripel, or maybe I misread your post. Tripels are golden-colored, heavy-bodied, malty and strong. Jeff, you may well like a tripel, although it seems you prefer the hoppy ales. For an excellent, locally-brewed (and probably fresh) example of the tripel style, try a Victory Golden Monkey; it’s a dead ringer for Kasteel Gouden Tripel. Although I love me some Kasteel, I don’t buy it anymore since it’s usually gone off by the time I open the bottle – mishandled in transit, maybe. OK, so I tipped my hand – insufferable beer snob here too. All my computers are named after Belgian beers.
Finally, happy 46, Jeff! Ya young whippersnapper. I can rest easy knowing I got an AARP *badge* (to get into their HQ) prior to getting their *card* (which mysteriously appeared in the mail earlier this year).
48 next month and still wondering what happened…I was 24 when I went to bed, how did I wake up OLD?
As a fellow fan, I thought you should know that the feelies are far from “late”. I saw them in Boston in October (something I never thought I’d see again) and they supposedly are working on a new album (as well as re-releasing the previous albums with bonus tracks as soon as the rights are straightened out). It was as if they had never stopped playing together. Incredible. Brenda’s parting words were something to the effect of “We promise it won’t be another 17 years ’til we’re back”
Happy (belated) Birthday!!!
Aerpolane Over the Sea is one of the best albums of the 90’s but it’s one of those love it or hate it kinda of things. I’ve had it in high rotation for years, but I’ve had friends trade it in the day after they bought it.
Actually the Corsendonk Abbey Pale Ale is a Tripel (and a mighty tasty one at that), confirmed by the listing at Beer Advocate: http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/41/139
Gots to be finding me some Hop Devil, tho’.
Ah, my bad for not checking. Who knew that “Corsendonk Abbey Pale Ale” was another name for “Corsendonk Agnus Tripel”? I’d provide a real url, but http://corsendonk.apluz.be/ is 100% flash so I can’t. Maybe I need to revisit the abbey styles; it’s been a while (obviously).
Anyway, Jeff should try the Golden Monkey IMEHHO [1]. If that doesn’t suit, then Weyerbacher Simcoe is absolutely worth a taste; it’s hoppy, but turned up to 11.
[1] In My Elitist High Horse Opinion
sorry to interrupt .. I drink beer but am in no way versed in all these fine choices..
I understand the basics of brewing(more hops, less malt etc.)
The regular barley water to stock the everyday is Miller High Life(the Champagne of Beer).
In the last 2 weeks I’ve imbibed Stella Artois, even threw a libation or two.
Bottom line is at the local beer warehouse it’s running $30 a case(includes 6% tax).
Is that money(and addicting delicious golden elixir) worth THAT much?
Surely (go ahead, call me that), I can find an equal or better import bottled for less….
opinions and input, please
and I’m on my 7th at this point
JCIII, you forgot to mention that in the past two weeks you have imbibed Stella Artois, AND almost cut off you finger! LOL
As for me, yeah. beer is basically beer. I do drink the “golden elixir” when I vist the inlaws in Western New York…but other than that, beer is pretty much just beer.
I used to think differently until my partner in the bar biz pointed it out to me. We had several premiums on tap, and quite a few “beer snobs” that came in. One afternoon he poured a couple of pitchers Miller Lite and hid them under the countertop of the bar. When any of our “snobs” asked for one of the artisan, hand crafted ales…my partner would pour a glass of Miller Lite, go though the intricacies of pouring a fine draft beer, then hand the “beer snob” the glass of Miller Lite. No complaints, and even a few compliments from the snobs that it was “the finest beer I’ve ever tasted.”
I would have gone for the Victory Hop Wallop. I love hops.
Knucklehead & tadpolelegal – I’m right there with you. I already have two WVSR t-shirts that I can only wear on the treadmill. A long-sleeved shirt would be a fabulous addition to my wardrobe.
Clintcurtis – I wouldn’t fall for that, but as I don’t like lagers, the color would tip me off.
Happy Belated Birthday, Jeff!
I knew there was a reason I went out on the town on Saturday night but getting very wobbly on Sambuca shots was not such a good idea … Especially after red wine with dinner and about 6 pints of Guinness in the club.
I’m hoping my t-shirt will arrive before the holidays. Pretty please!
I can’t tell if the bunker cam is a feminine dude or flatchested chick….
Lew in Bama,
I thought it was a young Kathryn Hepburn, but there’s a new picture there now. Check out the further evidence link. WTF? There’s some weird fetishes out there.
I was thinking Audrey, Jason.
I DIDN’T GET A VIP UPDATE.THINK MY E-MAIL SCREWED IT UP.
JCIII: Many years ago I managed a micro brewery, so I have some insight to the industry. Big brands like Miller, Budweiser, Coors, Molsen, etc. market to a mass audience, so they try to strike a broad appeal. Also, beer is primarily consumed by males under 30 who drink beer not to enjoy the flavor, but as a “social lubricant”. As people get older they tend to refine their tastes and thus you have a demand for beers with more distinction. These beers are produced on a smaller scale, thus the cost per bottle increases. Many of the smaller brands are imported, so you also have to pay extra to cover shipping and import duties. Is the extra cost worth it? If you are still in your “do keg stands until you pass-out in the back yard and vomit through your nose” stage, then no, stick to the simple and cheap. If you would rather drink less, but enjoy it more, then it’s time to start trying more expensive options like Chimay.