www.blogazar.com

D'oh

2011-10-28T22:56:00.000-07:00

This is what happens when you stay in.

Photo courtesy of Madagascargar.

Welcome

2011-10-28T22:23:00.001-07:00

Sneek peek at the cohabitation

I'm baaaack!

2011-10-28T22:05:00.000-07:00

Tumblr and I are over. You can check out what I have been posting since I left blogger last January by clicking aqui. You might notice that I did not post very much. I never felt it. It just wasn't meant to be.

Since I left blogger I met my boyfriend, W.
We recently began cohabitating and are loving it.... so far ;) I still work in the non-profit world, love design, hitting the town and my fearless neighborhood, Capitol Hill.
Expect more on all of the above.

Friday nights

2011-10-28T19:58:00.001-07:00

Moved to Tumblr

2011-01-11T22:56:00.000-08:00

I have moved the blog over to Tumble.

Come check me out there!

http://blogazar.com/

-Blogazar

#SNOMG: Karla's First Snow and Me at My Finest

2010-11-23T01:22:00.000-08:00

My Snow Day House Clothes. Sad, I know - but its cold and with my long underwear already on, I can run out the door AT a moments notice. In case we need more DVD's or Hot Chocolate.

Sister being totally adorable in the snow. Lets see if she is this enthused in a few months.

Look at me, I proudly posted two terrible photos of myself.
I think this is a sign that I have given up completely.

Best-Flash-Mob-EVER.

2010-11-18T07:28:00.000-08:00

Kylie and Dannii Minogue tribute at the Sydney Oprah House
Starring a fabulous drag queen and plenty of hot men, look closely.

Office Song of the Day: XXXO

2010-11-17T12:21:00.000-08:00

The video makes is tacky perfection.

ChefAzar: A Sunday Breakfast

2010-11-14T17:44:00.001-08:00

I ran across this recipe in Men's Health a few weeks ago and have been dying to make it. I forgot to buy the mushrooms but other than that, its pretty close to the original recipe. Enjoy it! Karla and I sure did.

Sauteed in Bacon fat: Cherry tomatoes, green onions, garlic, EVOO.

Dried the bacon, chopped it up.

Placed veggies in a bowl, for now.

8 eggs sunny side up.

Sprinkle bacon, veggies, salt, pepper and a splash of EVOO.
We ate it right out of the pan and not just because we could not wait to eat it!

The recipe says to enjoy with toasted bread, but we went with tortillas instead. Delicious.

Four Loko Smashed on Boylston

2010-11-13T18:22:00.000-08:00

Ha, smashed.
(sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile)

I think it might rain... forever

2010-11-13T14:45:00.001-08:00

On repeat for this very lazy Saturday

2010-11-13T14:01:00.000-08:00

'Gainst my window

2010-11-11T12:23:00.000-08:00

It looks like this little guy is on the desk. Adorable.
(sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile)

Holidays mean butter cookies

2010-11-11T12:10:00.000-08:00

Yessssss.
(sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile)

Out with the old

2010-11-11T11:50:00.000-08:00

2011, I am one step ahead of you.
(sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile)

Isitraining.in/SEATTLE

2010-11-05T19:24:00.001-07:00

Today when I was walking to my apartment from my bus stop, in the rain, I had a though: 'I wonder if there is a way to find out all of the places in the world where it is raining at this very moment?'

I got home and checked. I don't think that exists. Maybe on some weatherman website that only weather men have access too. But, I am no weatherman.

This is what I found instead: If you type in your web browser isitraining.in/_________, and you enter the name of any city, it gives you a big YES, or NO and some other details like the temperature and such.

Cool, huh?! I expect it to say YES a lot in the months ahead.

I am spending way too much of my Friday night typing in random places. Don't be jealous.

Adorbs TO THE MAX!

2010-11-05T18:10:00.000-07:00

Thanks, Veronica!

Fall on First

2010-11-05T14:33:00.000-07:00

2pm

From the office. Great day to sit at my desk all day.

Can you spot The Space Needle?

(sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile)

Your clocks won't change themselves!

2010-11-05T13:55:00.000-07:00

Well, some might but for everything else here is this friendly reminder from Capitol Hill Blog.

I really liked the photo.

Song of the day: Weight of The World - Editors

2010-11-05T13:50:00.000-07:00

It's times like this...

2010-11-05T13:38:00.000-07:00

when I need to remind myself that I am a grown ass man.

If I had a dime for every time a guy busted out into Katy Perry song for me... I'd have... :/

You Heard It Here, Last: Olive Way Starbucks

2010-11-04T19:48:00.001-07:00

Even though I walk by my $552,000 neighborhood Starbucks several times a day, I only managed to step inside tonight. I liked it. Starbucks aims to please. I was there for a meeting, we sat on the patio. The only thing I did not like is the douchy hand dryer in the bathroom (example below). I can do without or at least give me another option. Thank you.

Esquire gave it a favorable-ish review, aqui. Although, this part of their piece was wrong:
"Only bottles are available, no draft, deterring anyone with even a passing interest in beer from stopping by"
One of my meeting mates had a draft beer. Ha.

I saw your video, and I liked it

2010-11-04T15:00:00.000-07:00

I always hold off on linking a Katy Perry song as long as I can before it is drilled into my head by outside forces. The, eventually... I download them. For days now everyone and their mom (Literally, someone's Mom) have been posting Firework on facebook. I finally clicked on it today and was pleased by the obvious message to young people but I did think it was cheesy and typical. Kids going through a rough time, singer on top of a building and then the very literal fireworks spewing out of her bosom.

Then I got two minutes and 18 seconds into the video and suddenly I became a fan. I never understand how so many pop artists come out in support of the LGBT community but then never include us in their video or the themes of their music.

I love Robyn, but was disappointed last week when I saw her latest NSFW video for Indestructible, that is loaded with people making out. The most homo it got, however, was girl on girl. Femme girl on femme girl just feeds into the idea that its ok for girls but not for boys or butch girls to be in mainstream videos going at it. Speaking of artists I like, Kylie totally represented when she had fellas going at it in All The Lovers. Way to know your base, Minogue!

(Cue shooting star) The more you know.

Election Night with the NARAL Ladies and Patty VICTORY!

2010-11-02T23:32:00.001-07:00

I had a blast hangin with co-workers, campaign folks and Patty supporters tonight! First at Twist in Beltown for The Washington Bus, Publicola and Muni League party. Then on to the Dems celebration at the Westin. Good times. Like I said on facebook; this definitely made all of the work we have all done for this election, sooo worth it. Patty Murray will continue to make us proud in the US Senate and fight even harder for us now that Congress will be in Republican control.

I have been working with volunteers for about 3 years now and have met some amazing and dedicated people, but the people you meet working on elections have been the fiercest and most engaged/inspiring people I have ever worked with. The 10-12 hour days are all well worth it.

I am staying home from work tomorrow and I hope that everyone who worked hard on this election will take some time for some self-preservation too!

Big congrats to Marko Liias and Joe Fitzgibbon, our youngest State Representatives! You will now continue to inspire and motivate young people across Washington State and the rest of the country! Good luck boys!

Oh, and we (NARAL staff) were interviewed by a Slog reporter who asked us some great questions but then failed to include anything we said in it and instead made up something about us saying we were planning on going home crying and drinking vodka in our bathtubs.

Check it out here (I am the fellow in the pic): http://slog.thestranger.com/slog/archives/2010/11/02/the-municipal-league-party-at-twist

At Westin on Election Night

2010-11-02T20:37:00.000-07:00

everyone is in the house.
(sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile)

CHI-CHI-CHI-LE-LE-LE!!!

2010-10-31T12:36:00.000-07:00

Chilean Miners and Charles Nelson Reilly, duh.

CHI-CHI-CHI-LE-LE-LE!!!

Happy Halloweeeeen!

PhotoBlog: Murray/Obama GOTV Rally

2010-10-22T09:51:00.001-07:00

I was fortunate enough to get a VIP ticket from Patty Murray's campaign at the very last minute. I never expected to be at a rally with the President, sitting right behind him watching us on the jumbo-tron. It was awkward how natural it felt to watch him. I think its because his whole campaign and presidency have been very transparent. I felt like I knew him. Creepy? A little. Enjoyable? A ton. Woo hoo! Can't imagine being more charged about this election. If you want to phonebank for Patty Murray and other progressive candidates, contact me! Its not too late to get involved and make a difference.

Going through security. VIP Line. Holler.

The view from my seat. We were selected to sit in the area that would appear on camera, quite deliberately. I think. Smart.

Governor Gregoire

There I be.

We live together in a photograph of time

2010-10-22T01:08:00.000-07:00

(I Am A Bird Now - Antony and the Johnsons | 2005)

I came across this song on my itunes before bed and I still remember the moment I first heard it on THIS episode of All Songs Considered on NPR, in 2005!!! Things were so different then. I listened to it at a computer lab at ASU and went straight to a record store and bought this album. I have been in awe of the album and Antony ever since.

He brings me to tears not because its sad, but because its so friggin' incredible.

Shotgun Birthday Party

2010-10-20T23:03:00.000-07:00

Come help my good friend Jeff and I celebrate our 28th birthdays! Yes, you!
Facebook.
Cuff or Rplace to follow.

L.E.S. Artistes

2010-10-18T23:36:00.000-07:00

I can't stop listening to this song.

'I can say I hope it will be worth what I give up
If I could stand up mean for the things that I believe'

Inspiration on my work board

2010-10-18T19:36:00.000-07:00

(sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile)

The Sun is Up

2010-10-07T08:48:00.000-07:00

...and so is the new Olive Way Starbucks sign. Jeeez, between this, the new park at Summit and John and CC's right up the street... I won't know what to do with myself! Can't wait.
(sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile)

Fossilized Chair

2010-10-02T18:09:00.000-07:00

Hmmmm
(sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile)

Get dressed for fall, but don't get crazy

2010-09-27T00:23:00.000-07:00

I try to read Esquire's Style Blog on a regular basis (its a good break from the usual political and celebrity perusing I am accustomed to) and I couldn't help but be excited about a recent post with tips for transitioning into fall.

If I had to list reasons why I love living in Seattle, among them would be my love for the seasons and the wardrobe changes to be made accordingly. I heart winter in Seattle because its the only time of the year that I won't sweat buckets by wearing a hat and a scarf. Not to mention I can put on a few holiday pounds and be delusional enough to think that my layers hide the fact I hefty underneath. Yo amo spring in Seattle because it eases us into summer perfectly with just enough time to perfect our warm weather looks by the time summer approaches. Cutoffs seem to be a staple around here. I love the summer in Seattle for the ability to wear shorts (smartly), to show some skin (tastefully) and to see other people show off their skin (creepily). But fall, for me is the most easily romanticizeable (not a word) of all the seasons. Growing up in the desert, I used to wish for fall days like the ones I saw in TV and movies. I used to want to wear scarfs but knew that I would be beat up for trying to wear a scarf when it was a sunny 85 degree October day. Now, eff that! I can do what I want and there is lots to do. How much is too much? When to introduce the sweater? the scarf? the waterproof shoe? the color of my umbrella? pea coat or not? how much is too much Northface? Will I look like I am trying too hard?

Well, Esquire's Style Blog Men's Fall 2010 Fashion Tips does not have all the answers, it surely is a step in the right direction. Click here to see the full post. Below are the main points. Note: My favorite and most hilarious tip is large and in bold. I almost fell out of my seat laughing. But I like it.

1. Add the sweater, carefully.

2. You don't need a winter coat.

3. Consider the scarf. Feel free to start now — you'll be surprised how far you can get by into the colder months on a scarf and a blazer alone — but mind the calendar for breaking out new neck fabrics: silk or cotton patterns through Columbus Day, wool-backed silk and straight-up wool 'til Week 9 of the NFL, cashmere by Thanksgiving, and chunky knit as soon as you see snow.

4. Invest in leather.

5. The cap, not the beanie.

6. Put on some damn socks.

7. Put on some new boots.

8. Tweed (up top).

9. Corduroy (down low).

10. Flannel (head to toe).

Read more: http://www.esquire.com/blogs/mens-fashion/fall-tips-2010#ixzz10iHTSTEa

Wardrobe Malfunction at SAM

2010-09-26T17:17:00.000-07:00

(sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile)

It 's 3am and this is what I feel like

2010-09-23T03:00:00.000-07:00

I'm addicted to the joy of the little things.

Don't bring me down.

September So Far

2010-09-18T16:10:00.001-07:00

Andre and I checking out Karla's new school.

I would not have eaten the chicken wing like my life depended on it, had I known that a photo was being taken. Eh, who am I kidding?! I like chicken. Its deep and its real. I am looking at Noah like "don't even think of stealing my chicken". He is thinking "chicken isn't love, Eleazar!"

My little girl on her first day of school as she was about to walk out the door. Tear.

Homework time for her at Bauhaus means work-from-home time for me.

We have fun sometimes!

I Could Not Help Myself

2010-09-17T14:39:00.000-07:00

Everyone else was taking photos too!!!
(sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile)

At Glasshouse Studios

2010-09-17T12:20:00.000-07:00

Running a work errand. Beautiful studio. Amazing work. Man, I wish I was more artistic. I would settle for being able to afford quality art like this.
(sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile)

In My Secret Life

2010-09-16T23:08:00.000-07:00

I saw you this morning
You were moving so fast
Can’t seem to loosen my grip
On the past
And I miss you so much
There’s no one in sight
And we’re still making love
In my secret life

I smile when I’m angry
I cheat and I lie
I do what I have to do
To get by
But I know what is wrong
And I know what is right
And I’d die for the truth
In my secret life

Hold on, hold on, my brother
My sister, hold on tight
I finally got my orders
I’ll be marching through the morning
Marching through the night
Moving cross the borders...
of my secret life

Looked through the paper
Makes you want to cry
Nobody cares if the people
Live or die
And the dealer wants you thinking
That it’s either black or white
Thank God it’s not that simple
In my secret life

I bite my lip
I buy what I’m told
From the latest hit
To the wisdom of old
But I’m always alone
And my heart is like ice
And it’s crowded and cold
In my secret life
-Leonard Cohen

listen here.

1st

2010-09-15T18:35:00.000-07:00

Taking a little time to enjoy the view and loving the sound of cars going by on the wet streets of Downtown.

Its the little things.
(sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile)

Rainbow Flags For Everyone!

2010-09-15T11:09:00.000-07:00

First; Thanks to Capitol Hill Blog for keeping us in the loop when there are acts of violence and/or hate on Capitol Hill. It feels, to me at least, a lot more reassuring to receive information about my neighborhood from a source within it and who obviously is invested our the community.

In case you have not already read these stories, here goes:

A man was brutally beaten on Harrison and 18th recently and two Trans Women were assaulted on Broadway and Pike.

There have been talks of restarting Q Patrol for a few years now. I first heard of this when I worked for Gay City Health Project but apparently talks are underway again. I moved here post Q Patrol but I would welcome the sense of security that many people say it offered. Not that I feel totally unsafe here, because I don’t. I just think that any safety precautions we can take as a community are always a good idea.

Iconic rainbow flag in San Francisco's Castro neighborhood

Speaking of ideas, I have one:

Rainbow flags. We need flags. Yes, rainbow flags won’t solve the problem entirely. The solution to this problem is multifaceted but I do think that flags can be part of the equation. We all know that Capitol Hill is a diverse neighborhood and to a lot of people it is Seattle’s ‘gay neighborhood’ (not to disregard all of our straight allies and liberally minded friends), but how do we represent that? Yes, there are parts of Broadway that a same sex couple would feel comfortable holding hands in. Yes, we all gay it up during the day at Cal Anderson Park. Yes, most gay clubs and bars are located in the neighborhood. Along with all of this we have a larger hipster community, many straight bars, music venues that draw in crowds from miles away. I love all of this about the hill. I love that it is not just a gay neighborhood, but it really most definitely is gay.

I wish we showed that more. I wish that when tourists visited Seattle they would come up to the hill and see flags lining Broadway and Pike and Pine. I wish that folks coming onto the hill from other parts of the state for shows or bars would see that they have arrived in a neighborhood that is tolerant and proud of its diverse community. In some ways, representing diversity through rainbow flags would say ‘don’t bring hate here, we won’t stand for it’. Instead, we get folks visiting us who may not be presented with out and proud gayness in their communities. They have a few drinks here and see two dudes holding hands and they get all ignorant and hateful. Had they seen a rainbow flags as they arrived, they might have known where they were and not been so shocked by it later. Yes, it sounds like I am saying that we should ease people into our diversity as they come onto the hill. No, I am saying lets be visually proud of our diversity and if it helps folks realize where they are and how we live, then so be it.

I don’t think this idea will solve the entire problem of violence and hate crimes. I think it will provide a visual voice to our community and there is something to be said about visual imagery. We love putting up murals to represent our love of art. Why not distribute flags en mass and put them up all over the hill to display our love of diversity? I enjoy how visually proud we get during pride month. I don’t see a reason why we can’t have that year round. We still live in a very intolerant world, but we are fortunate enough to live in a positive and accepting neighborhood. Its time we made this clear.

Now, how do we make this happen?! Anyone have a few hundred flags lying around? Hmmm.

Feliz Dia De La Independencia!

2010-09-15T08:20:00.000-07:00

It is really easy to forget how beautiful Mexico is when all we hear about is drug violence and the ongoing immigration debate but today, on Mexico's Bicentennial, let's remember everything that makes Mexico proud. One of my favorite things in Mexico is The Angel of Independence and there is no better day than today to honor it. I used to go by 'El Angel' on my way to work when I taught English down there and every day it would take my breath away. Paseo de la Reforma is one of the most beautiful streets in the world and the Angel of Independence and La Diana cap it perfectly.

I am so proud to be Mexican and today especially, my country will be in my thoughts, my daydreams, my memories and my corazon.

Viva Mexico!

Now watch the video below to see what I am talking about...

Can I have $460 Dollars?

2010-09-14T23:42:00.001-07:00

Thanks to FrenchTruckers.Com for making me dream about this bag.

Yes, mixing black and brown is ok. I do it regularly.

Something Is Happening in Washington, That You Should Care About!

2010-09-14T10:29:00.000-07:00

As Most of you may already know, I work for a reproductive rights public policy organization, NARAL Pro-Choice Washington. I don’t often mix my work with my blog but something is happening in our state that I think requires your attention (Not to say that I don’t believe you should not care about reproductive rights). You should always care when basic human rights, like health care are in jeopardy, especially here in our very ‘liberal’ state.

Recently, the Washington State Board of Pharmacy decided to consider changing a rule that currently requires pharmacists to dispense medication regardless of their own personal beliefs. As the rules stand; a pharmacist can only refuse to dispense medicine if there is another pharmacist, at the same pharmacy on hand to dispense it. If that is not the case then he or she must dispense the prescribed medication to the patient. Changing the existing rule would allow pharmacists to deny medications.

Why should you care about this?
• Women would be denied emergency contraception: Emergency contraception is a women’s decision, not a person at the counter holding it in their hands decision. Victims of sexual abuse who should not have to engage in this type of unnecessary conversation and confrontation with a pharmacist would.
• People with HIV and STD’s would be denied: A pharmacist can refuse to dispense your medication because you might have become infected from gay sex.

These reasons all seem crazy. Right? But this shit happens. If you don’t believe me, then come to the Pharmacy Board meetings listed below and hear from victims of refusal in our own backyards.

Perhaps if you are refused a medication at the Bartell’s on Pike and Broadway, you could just go down to Seattle Meds or Walgreens down the street. What happens for folks who live in rural parts of the state? What if there is only one pharmacy in their town? What if a person needs crucial medication and does not have access to transportation to get to the nearest pharmacy a few towns over? What happens when a woman is a victim of sexual abuse and she is unable to ask for help to get to a pharmacy that may or may not give her the emergency contraception she needs?

These are all reasons why we should all care. Not just if you are a woman. Not just if you are sick. Not just if you know someone who has been affected. But because it is time that we stopped allowing our personal beliefs to get in the way of access to health care. We should all be able to get the care we need with dignity and respect.

The Board of Pharmacy is holding two public meetings to hear your input before making a decision. I guarantee you that the other side will be at this event in full force. So we need you to take some time out of your day and attend these hearings. At the meeting you will be able to hear from both sides of the argument and share your own story if you have one to share. Your physical presence in the room will go a long way to showing that Washingtonians care about this important issue.

Pharmacy Board Meetings:

Friday, September 17, 2010
1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Blackriver Training and Conference Center
800 Oakesdale Ave SW
Renton, WA 98057

Wednesday, September 29, 2010
1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
CenterPoint Commons - Conference Center
20809 72nd Avenue South
Kent, Washington 98032

Check out this news clip from King 5 yesterday. They were in our office and there is a shot of me in it!

If you would like to know more about this issue, attend one of the meeting or take action online please visit NARAL's website at www.prochoicewashington.org or contact me at eleazarjuarez-diaz@prochoicewashington.org.

Grace

2010-09-14T01:03:00.000-07:00

'Its just amazing. Its sort of strange to think how old it is. Its beautiful. I think I got left behind somewhere, cause you know, I'm still a romantic... you have to go charging ahead. You can't stay behind'

I see myself in this woman, and I like that.

... And Real Love

2010-09-14T00:02:00.000-07:00

Perfect day: Sent the kid off to school at 7, gym, work from 9am to 5pm (sharp), happy hour at Ruth Chris, shopping Downtown and dinner at Broadway Grill. Sounds good to me.

Oh, and the best part might have been seeing this classic Mary J quote at the site of the All Saints store downtown. Love it.

"I'm searchin for some real love... real love"

I can't even listen to this song. Cheesy/fabulous memories.

An Unfortunate Series of Events

2010-09-12T19:58:00.000-07:00

The short story: I lost my ipod

The long Story: Wednesday September 8th I left the office at around 8pm and headed up the hill on the number 10 bus from Downtown. I got off at the Broadway and Pine stop to walk home down Broadway. The 10 does not get me as close to home as I would like but it picks up right in front of my office so I would rather walk a few blocks on the Hill then walk a few blocks Downtown trying to find a bus like the 14 or the 49, which both drop me off a bit closer to home. Although, lately I totally avoid the 49. Its crazy town.

Back to the story: I was listening to Sia’s We Are Born album on my ipod. I got off the bus and ran into two close friends, Marlon and Scott. I love that all of my close friends live on the hill and we run into each other like this. They were headed to Rancho Bravo, and although I had been there twice this week already, I decided to join.

We sat down and I put my ipod in my jacket. My favorite jacket, a black bomber-style jacket I bought on a trip to DC. I enjoyed two adobada tacos and great conversation with the guys. Because the weather just recently got cooler, I am not used to having a jacket or sweater with me. When we got up to leave I didn’t even realize that I did not grab my jacket.

We went to The Lobby for a few drinks and at around 10pm, I realized that I had left my jacket at the restaurant. Ugh. I decided that I would not stress about it and went about my night thinking I will deal with this tomorrow. The next day I felt a little sick (totally unrelated to the drinks after dinner), so I stayed home from work.

When I felt better I went down to Rancho Bravo to see if anyone had turned in my stuff. I told them what happened and before I could finish asking for my stuff one of the nice gals on staff went back to get my jacket of a shelf. I was elated. Until I went through it to look for my ipod. It was gone. The staff at RB said that it was turned into them without it. Blast! I can’t think of anyone living on Capitol Hill that does not love Rancho Bravo. I know I definitely do. Every time I am there I see happy hipsters going at it with some Mexican dish. I do think that their carne asada is over-seasoned and their pozole is under priced, but alas, I have been there 3 times in the last week for crying out loud!

Now I am left to wonder if perhaps I will never be able to go back there since I am a victim of theft from one of the patrons I so proudly consider myself a part of. Maybe I will never be able to go back there again. Maybe I am over reacting. Maybe I am just not hungry right now so I can’t imagine going, at the moment. All I know is that the relationship between a place that always felt like home and me, has now been compromised by some greedy hipster. I can’t afford to replace my ipod anytime soon. So much for the bus rides with the perfect track for my mood. No more falling asleep to my sleep mix on my alarm clock radio. No more laying around in the park listening to music and people watching. No more strutting down the street to my move mix.

I know it might be petty, but I am uber annoyed. I hope whoever has my ipod took it because they wanted one but could not afford it. I hope it wasn’t someone who already has one or who is going to try to resell it. Nothing against Rancho Bravo. RB, you know I love you. Remember the Open Letter to Rancho Bravo? Then my excitement over your Pozole? My heart will heal and we will be back to normal soon. Tacos on the house? JK.

Totes Adorbs

2010-09-12T18:50:00.000-07:00

I know the KKCO trend is a bit old but I love this bag. Its perfect for weekend. Most def won't be rockin this Downtown Monday through Friday. Thanks for the thoughtful gift, David!
(sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile)

Homework Time at Top Pot

2010-09-12T18:16:00.000-07:00

Karla doing her homework at Top Pot while I haave been trying to get the wifi to work for an hour. I have work to do and I hate when the baristas don't know how to reset the connection. What a bust!
(sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile)

Song of the Night: Bring Night

2010-09-11T20:28:00.001-07:00

This song gets me excited for a night out.

My Sisters Kick-Ass New School

2010-09-08T11:12:00.000-07:00

Why couldn't Cibola High School have been like this?

I just ran into this post on hugeasscity about the renovation a few years ago. $107 millions dollars. Yikes.

Robyn Coming to Capitol Hill November 21st

2010-09-07T19:05:00.000-07:00

November 21st, Neumos
Symbolic too, since Body Talk Pt. 2 dropped today. Listening party when I get home from work.

I received an email this morning from a friend who knows I am obsessed with her, and I did not believe it to be true. When I went on robynsource.com and saw that it was true, I literally threw up a little in my mouth...with excitement. Duh.

This seriously might make my entire year.

Konichiwa, bitches!

El Duelo

2010-09-05T15:45:00.001-07:00

If you have never heard this song and seen this performance of it, you might be missing out on one of the best things ever. It is seriously amazing. I want everyone to speak Spanish so you can have a better chance of getting a job in certain job fields, but also so you can understand how amazing this song is. Even if you don't, you'll get. Watch the whole thing. There is a climax, and you just might.

PS - Beto Cuevas, yum.

Song of the night: Let It Fall

2010-09-04T20:31:00.001-07:00

Two minutes and forty-three seconds of bliss.

Its a happy beat, about being sad.

A toast in your honor

2010-09-04T16:39:00.000-07:00

Courtesy of Anthropology
(sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile)

TKIF

2010-09-03T16:52:00.000-07:00

Thank Kylie its Friday. On the bus heading home, listening to some Ms. Minogue and getting ready for what will probs be the last barbecue of the summer.
(sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile)

A Weekend Gift:

2010-09-03T01:09:00.000-07:00

This has already made my weekend, and it has not even started yet: http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=1613152933932

I was about to fall asleep and now I can't get this effin song out of my head. Its so fabulous and gay. Kylie takes her gay following and honors it in a classy, tasteful and consistent way. I can think of a Lady or two who can learn a valuable lesson here.

I am not my socks

2010-09-01T19:43:00.000-07:00

These make me seem in a much better mood than I really am. No more sock buying at Urban Outfitters.

On my way to Ayuthaya (sp?), though. This will surely catch my mood up to my socks and the day will be saved.
(sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile)

Once upon a time...

2010-09-01T09:52:00.000-07:00

I used to have all kinds of time to chill at Bauhaus. Though I do prefer having a job (which I love), but kickin' it here was nice. Maybe I will introduce Karla to it this weekend. She can finish her Harry Potter (10 years late) and I can finish my Spiritual Activist (10
years too soon). We can check out Capitol Hills finest hippsters while we're at it.
(sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile)

Revelations in the alley.

2010-09-01T09:40:00.000-07:00

Just spotted this in the alley behind my apartment, on my way to work.
(sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile)

Mobile Blogging

2010-08-31T18:09:00.000-07:00

I think I just figured out how to blog from my phone. If this works I will be posting a lot more. Lucky you! Photos, random thoughts, useless updates and so much more. Stay tuned.
(sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile)

Compartiendo 'Compartir'

2010-08-30T21:02:00.000-07:00

I have not been feeling too inspired to blog lately. Just busy with work and family stuff. My life has become setting curfews, buying school supplies, and trying to be a good role model. No worries though, thanks to my amazing friends I sill manage to have a lot of fun. Not to mention my Sister is amazing and keeps me busy and highly amused. We are a good team.

I watched this video. Now I feel inspired.

So, about this blog post: Carla Morrison is an up and coming Mexican singer/song writer. She was recently written about by NPR and now she has released a video for her latest single 'Compartir'. The title means to share in English. The song is about wanting to share life with someone else or something along those lines. It resonates with me and my new living situation, among other things. In any case, the song is amazing. The video is simple and shot en mi lindo Mexico.

The words in this song ki-ki-ki-kill me.

lives deeply down

2010-08-20T00:27:00.001-07:00

Too crafty for words.

2010-08-19T00:59:00.001-07:00

Ok, some words: Smart, useful and a nice way to honor the stuff people leave on the sidewalk up for grabs. I love this neighborhood. We leave junk out for someone else to use. The circle of life. Too real.

She's Just Being Robyn

2010-08-18T13:57:00.000-07:00

I was obviously ecstatic about the release of Body Talk Pt. 1. Obviously. The album did not disappoint and I have heard Dancing On My Own several times at The Cuff. All good news. I was not able to get down to San Francisco for her show. Not good news.

One of my favorite songs on Pt 1 is Hang With Me. Slow acoustic perfection. The other day a good friend of mine was visiting Chicago and drunk texted me that this house party he was at kept playing the song. I figured it must have been a quiet party since that song is pretty slow and kind of sad, actually. Little did I know that she had a more Robyn-like version of the song on Body Talk Pt. 2 (due on September 7th). Ha! I love a good surprise.

Check out the video below. It includes some rad footage of her on tour just being Robyn.

Robyn - Hang With Me official video from Robyn on Vimeo.

Thriftstore Finds and Mad Skills

2010-08-16T00:45:00.001-07:00

Last Supper tin pencil case = $.99

'Cholo' Sunglasses (douchy) = $4.99

Human sun dial = Priceless

PS - Holy crap its hot.

We Held Gold Dust In Our Hands

2010-08-07T21:54:00.000-07:00

I can't stop listening to this song. Don't read into it.

My favorite lyrics: "we make it up as we go along" and "do I have, of course I have, beneath my raincoat, I have your photographs."

too real.

Gay Heaven: Scissor Sisters and Kylie Minogue

2010-08-07T10:39:00.000-07:00

I love Scissor Sisters, and I love Kylie. Both recently release new albums. Both albums are excellent. Recently youtube videos have surfaced of surprise Kylie appearances at their shows and a beautiful bluegrass acoustic rendition of her #1 US dance hit All The Lovers.

First we have a Scissor Sisters featuring Kylie at the Glastonbury Music Festival. This is my fave song off the new SS album and this version with Kylie is electric... magnetic electric (get it?). Anyway, its GREAT and makes me want to be naughty... Any Which Way:

Here is All The Lovers as you've never heard it before:

Now dance! It's all you want to do.

A Reason Why I Love My Neighborhood...

2010-08-06T16:13:00.000-07:00

PhotoBlog: A Sort Of Perfect Weekend

2010-07-25T22:37:00.001-07:00

Capitol Hill, Madison Beach and points in between.

Homo Homework: LGBT Commission Survey

2010-07-15T00:19:00.000-07:00

As you probably don't know, I am on the City of Seattle LGBT Commission and we recently launched a very exciting project in an effort to get a 'snapshot' of what the Seattle LGBT community looks like, and what our needs are. If you are LGBT and work, live or play in Seattle please take a moment to complete the survey and let the Mayor and City Council know who you are!

To take the survey visit: www.snapshotseattle.com

To learn more about the LGBT Commission visit: www.seattle.gov/lgbt

To read the official City of Seattle press release visit: www.seattle.gov

Big thanks to Capitol Hill Blog for covering this news so nicely. XOXO

Glamour Shots?

2010-07-14T21:13:00.001-07:00

Nope.

On Capitol Hill walls.

PhotoBlog: A Lovely Sunday On The Hill

2010-07-11T20:45:00.001-07:00

My Sister writing a poem or something. This was before we informed her that she could not sit there. What a dumb rule.

promo at Molly Moon's.

Why anyone would waste a Sunday playing sports is beyond me.

Guava Tea at Broadway Grill with Dan

I don't get it.

San Francisco For Le Weekend

2010-06-25T01:52:00.001-07:00

Packed. Sleeping. Work in the AM. Speaking on a panel at South Seattle Community College in the afternoon. Flight at 5. San Francisco Pride, for the rest of the weekend.

This will be my first trip sans laptop, ever (well, since I can remember).

Twitter and FB updates throughout the weekend though. Don't you worry! I will keep you posted on useless information and shenanigans.

Songs of the weekend:

All The Lovers

and Dancing On My Own

See you next week!

One America Shuts Down Downtown - Si Se Puede!

2010-06-23T20:01:00.001-07:00

I love working across from the federal building downtown. The wonderful folks at One America organized a rally today in front of the fed building. This is pretty typical., the rally's, I mean. There is usually some kind of demonstration there every week or so about all types of stuff. Wednesday is the day I leave work mid-day for spin class at the Downtown YMCA. It was on my way back form the gimnasio that I first noticed the rally taking place on the steps of the building. I was sad I could not step away from work to participate since I am a 'member' of One America. So I took my guilty ass back to the office and worked until close to 7pm.

As I left my office I noticed that Downtown was INSANE. Traffic was backed up and people were swarming in for a Mariners game. I could here the demonstration on the other side of the building, 'Si se puede! Si se puede! Si se puede!'. I was beyond moved and walked through to the other side of the building to find 12 remaining demonstrators holding hands in a circle in the intersection of Madison and 2nd, as they were dramatically being arrested by SPD. One by one. Each time the two officers walked up to escort the demonstrators to the SPD van, the crowd would cheer and applause as the remaining activists in the circle kept singing This Little Light of Mine. I watched and cheered them on with the rest of the supporters who stood at each intersection. There were lots of news cameras, reporters and tourists.

The last one to be arrested was Pramila Jayapal (Director of One America) and superstar immigration advocate. So glad I was able to catch the end of this event. Big thanks to One America for organizing and to the the brave and passionate protesters I say: you inspire me. Si se puede!!!

Donate to One America! Every little bit counts, just click here.

Shame.

2010-06-17T00:25:00.001-07:00

I have been a little busy lately and when I came into my room tonight to go to sleep, I realized something; This has never been me. WTF?! Sunday is the day I will take my room back. Sunday. The day. Taking it back. Get ready, room! But for now, sleepy time.

Everything I Love In This World

2010-06-16T23:56:00.000-07:00

Once upon a time I used to read Apartment Therapy every day. Today, I stumbled back upon it and was reminded why. This is what my home will one day resemble. If I am lucky, and sometimes I think I just might be.

This is the home of Joel Mozersky, designer of The Real Word Austin house.
Check out the rest of his home aqui.

PhotoBlog: Recent Blackberry Camera Activity

2010-06-15T22:52:00.001-07:00

Photos from the last week. Oh yeah, and blackberry camera's suck.

Doesn't seem to keep me from shooting though. Lucky you!

Marcelas Owens speaking adorably at Senator Patty Murray's 15th Annual Golden Tennis Shoe Awards. He and the other winners were very inspiring. My favorite was the lovely and eloquent Viki Kennedy, widow of late Senator Ted Kennedy.

Waiting for Andre and Karla to pick me up in the rain after a looooooong day of work.

The bathroom at Stumptown on Pine.

Waiting for a haircut at Rudy's on Pine.

T-Dance at Pony. AMAZING music. I will be there again.

The crappy, dirty, overpriced teriyaki place next to Broadway Grill puts together a good looking plate.

Event: Robyn Release Party @ Purr this Friday!

2010-06-14T20:31:00.000-07:00

I saw this in The Stranger while I was waiting for a haircut at Rudy's. I almost died last night when I heard her new single at Pony.

PS- The music at Pony on Sunday was SICK. (sick=great, in this case)

Blogazar News: Blog Promise, GuardianAZAR, Pooped

2010-06-14T19:30:00.000-07:00

3 Things:

I am going to be blogging more. My goal is to post something every day. Don't judge me if I can't follow through. I am a busy boy.
I have become the legal guardian for my lovely 16 year old sister (Karla). She arrived from Arizona last week and is now living with me. She is an amazing girl and reminds me so much of myself. So, naturally, I love her to death. She starts school in September so she is just chillin for the summer. If you have any ideas for camps, volunteer opportunities, babysitting, dog walking, anything! let me know. I need stuff to keep her from being bored when I am at work all day. Capitol Hill is lovely but not the best place for her to meet kids her age. Help a brother out!
I am exhausted.

Some photos of our adventures thus far:

K in front of that huge wall they built for the construction of the lightrail station on the hill.

K at the cathedral on first hill. Church will not be part of her life here. No sir.

The central library.

K getting a glimpse of her new life from Kerry Park.

@ Entre Hermanos' annual Latino Pageant fundraiser on K's first day.

wish us luck.

You Lost Me

2010-05-27T18:20:00.000-07:00

If I did not already know that Sia co-wrote this song with Christina, I would have googled it when I heard it on Idol last night because it soooo Sia. I absolutely love it. She also co-wrote 2 other songs on the album. Can't wait for the June 8th release.

Dancing On My Own

2010-05-23T17:55:00.001-07:00

I can't stop listening to this song! Can't wait for the new album and the upcoming US tour with Kelis! :)

Robyn 'Dancing On My Own' (Official Video) from Robyn on Vimeo.

From Begining to End, in Seattle this week!

2010-05-22T20:50:00.000-07:00

I blogged about this film a little over a year ago and never actually thought that it would make it to Seattle, but thanks to SIFF; ITS HERE!!!! I have my ticket for the Wednesday screening at the Egyptian. Join me? Watch the trailer below. Seriously. Do it.

Click here to buy tickets.

An Attempt To Illustrate 3 Important Years

2010-05-22T01:13:00.000-07:00

So it came to me at the some point over that last week that this week is 3 years from the day I moved here back in 2007. I came here for a relationship and a job, both of which did not work out but I value both of those experiences and do not wish the circumstances under which I came here were any different.

Since moving here I have continued to develop in a career field I am passionate about. I have made amazing friends to the point where I fear that I will never establish connections like this again. I have maintained a close relationship to my family back in Arizona and Mexico. More importantly I feel comfortable in my skin and secure in who I am. Its been a long time coming.

If you know me at all or read my blog from time to time then you know I appreciate the little things and all those little things have made the last 3 years the most engaging and growth-inspiring years of my life.

I am so glad this is home.

I wish I had more time for a more detailed and thoughtful video, but I don't :(

I put together some of my favorite shots of my time here and crammed them into a song that I love listening to around the city. Enjoy!

I went to the U District StreetFair...

2010-05-16T22:55:00.001-07:00

and all I did was take photos of the alley.

Oh yeah, and I became Mayor of the StreetFair on foursquare. Pretty Sweet.

Capitol Hill Curb Find

2010-05-14T20:23:00.001-07:00

Happy Friday! So, I have been bummed about my lack of time to blog lately and also saddened by how much I am neglecting my apartment these days. It is constantly a mess and not much design has been implemented since moving in. It is nice and cozy though. At least I have that.

Well, today when I came home I found these 2 old chairs on the curb. They are pretty solid and I love the character. My apartment was getting too minimal and ikea. even for me. Incorporating these into my scheme will help me get to my semi-eclectic, cozy and modern final look.

I think I will paint them a high gloss white (of course, right?), but what to do with for upholstery fabric. Hmmm. Maybe something modern? I smell juxtaposition.

Immigration March Video

2010-05-01T22:06:00.000-07:00

Seattle May Day March for Immigrant Rights

2010-05-01T19:20:00.001-07:00

Jon and Noah (and my sign, the yellow one)

The other side of my sign. I got so sick of hearing mean things about Arizona. SB 1070 needs to be overturned, but Arizona is still a great place and the home of me and my family. So shut it already with the mean things.

My NARAL Sistas'

So grateful for these two!

Most Excting Place I Washed My Hands This Week

2010-05-01T02:23:00.001-07:00

...At a work thing in Fremont this week.

I excused myself to take some photos in the bathroom. This would only be cooler to me if they were luchador masks, but alas. More pic of this space to come (it was pretty freakin' sweet).

Loser shot of the night. I was way too excited about this bathroom. Its the little things. The little things.

Youth & Families Initiative: LGBT Community Caucus

2010-04-30T11:27:00.000-07:00

Hosted by the Seattle LGBT Commission, City of Seattle
& League of Education Voters
Join us for the LGBT Community Caucus

Be among the voices that inform our Mayor’s Agenda to make Seattle the best place to live and raise a family

Tuesday, May 4, 5:00pm - 7:15pm
First Floor Conference Room, Central Building
810 Third Avenue, Seattle
Refreshments provided

Learn more at www.seattle.gov/lgbt

Twenty some years ago, Mayor Norm Rice launched his Education Summit with the people of Seattle to address some of the most pressing issues of the day and initiate Seattle’s Families and Education Levy.

Today, Mayor McGinn is reaching out once again to Seattleites to inform and shape his work at the City of Seattle FOR the people of Seattle. The Mayor’s Initiative co-chairs are Mayor Norm Rice, Estela Ortega and Bob Watt, as well as Deputy Mayor Darryl Smith.

The opportunity to support genuine community engagement as a part of our leadership’s process for positive change is as unusual as it is significant. Join us in working together toward our common goal to create a healthy, positive and equitable environment for all families. Let’s work together as a community for a better Seattle.

http://youthandfamilies.seattle.gov/

Primed, Up and Seeking Color Advice: White, Silver, Yellow or Red?

2010-04-25T20:03:00.000-07:00

My antlers have been a staple of my apartments for the last 2 years. Although they are only ceramic replicas of deer carcass, they still manage to freak people out. As you can see in this link, they were originally very real looking. I decided I should paint them so that they look fake and not as old-man-cabin.

I'd like to do high gloss white but I have a feeling that will be out of style quick. For now I have primed them in white. Should I go with the high gloss white and just risk them going out of style and having to repaint them? Or should I paint them silver to match the metal accents in the living room? Or should I just do a punch of color with a high gloss yellow or red? Thoughts? White? Silver? Yellow? Red?

I moved in almost 2 months ago but could not decide on where to put these little guys. I decided on the living room. I think they do a good job of bringing your eye across and up the room as you walk in.

I think I really like them in white. Decisions decisions.

Voila! I think I managed to space them out perfectly on the first try. I worked up a sweat measuring everything... math is hard.

Saturday Afternoon

2010-04-24T20:51:00.001-07:00

After sitting on my bum all day in my apartment: I decided to get out and go for a walk around the hill. It was sunny and lovely, but deceivingly cold. I stopped at Crossroads to see if they had anything new that I might like. They did not. Then I headed south on Broadway, to John, up to 15th, north to republican, back down to Broadway, Starbucks, Urban Outfitters, QFC and back home.

At some point on the begining of my walk this song came on and I just kept going back to it. A lot of it is just music, and it is pretty amazing music. The words are killer though "you have blood on your hands and i'm feeling weak", "I hear your voice, and I knew right away if you were here, what your eyes would say", "I have blood on my feet as I walk away".

If you have time, listen to it. You might want to take a nap, reminisce, or just buy her CD :)

Video here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=csYXGF9O0To

PhotoBlog: First Week @ My New Job

2010-04-18T02:39:00.001-07:00

en route to work.

Welcomed.

Brand new.

Office view.

Federal Building. Office view.

First Ave View From Office

Marching to New Orleans City Hall

2010-04-13T22:24:00.000-07:00

I was fortunate enough to participate and help in leading the crown down Canal St. and down to New Orleans City Hall. We were demanding that more be done to bring back the thousands of folks who have not been able to return home after Katrina. It was a very moving experience. I don't even have words to describe.

Waiting for our police escort to arrive. Hundreds of people were waiting in the Marriott parking lot while the band played for us and people walking up Canal. There is a second towards the end where you can see Larry Cox, AIUSA's Executive Director speaking to the cameras.

I had to get a few seconds of these local ladies stopping to dance to the music. It was effing awesome.

Marching to City Hall.

Dr. Bernice Johnson Reagon singing to us. Listen. Its perfect.

Dr. Bernice Johnson Reagon giving us a little lesson on this little light of mine.

Twitterazar: Tweeting From New Orleans

2010-04-07T23:06:00.001-07:00

I will be in New Orleans for the next 4 days at an Amnesty International Conference, next door to a Southern Repubican Conference starring the lovely Sarah Palin. It should be an interesting weekend. I will be tweeting along the way. Click here to get my scoop.

Another Awkward Wall... Solved

2010-04-07T22:43:00.001-07:00

This is the wall behind my bedroom door. Its the perfect place for my board and calendar. I didn't want to clutter-up a more visible wall and this does double-duty because it covers my circuit breakers. This will only be seen by me and whoever happens to be in my room with me while I have the lights on. Unlikely.

It was very nice to go through my memory box and dig up a select few photos, notes and what-nots. It will be nice to wake up and see the first lady, my family, friends and mementos of some wonderful memories... great way to start the day.

PhotoBlog: Kerry Park Continued

2010-04-06T23:36:00.000-07:00

Project: Binder Clip Photo Display for Mexico City Memories

2010-04-06T22:57:00.001-07:00

I went through my "memory box" where I keep old greeting cards, photos, postcards, etc. I ran into 9 of my favorite photos from my time in Mexico City and I wanted to put them up and see them everyday. Lately i've been quite nostalgic about my time in the DF and I realized tonight that I didn't have any remnants of it around my apartment and if this place is going to represent me, it should include this.... for sure. It shouldn't just all live in my head.

I don't have 9 4x6 picture frames lying around or the money to run out and buy some tomorrow so in classic Eleazar fashion I decided to get crafty.

Supplies:

Twine
Small nails
Binder Clips
Photo
Awkward wall I wasn't sure what to do with

Maybe it will be permanent, maybe I will buy some frames. Either way, I like it for now.

I did something similar to this a few apartments ago - Check it out: Blogazar, March 19th, 2008

New Po Dogs Location On The Ave

2010-04-06T01:25:00.000-07:00

I have no idea when this is opening. I just saw it while I was grabbing lunch on the ave. Read my blogazar review of the Capitol Hill location.... aqui.

The new location is on University Ave between 47th and 50th. I am curious to see what they do with the interior. The Hill location is quite nice.