Today, I met the manager and hopeful future co-owner of the Yolly Molly Cafe in Fairfax. When asked where the name came from (something I've always wondered), he shrugged his shoulders and admitted it was something that always puzzled him as well. It happens to be one of my favorite froyo cafes. It may not have as many different flavors of yogurt or toppings as other cafes, but I like their yogurt best. It's a creamier consistency than most others I've had. Plus, they make coffee drinks and amazing smoothies. But for the purposes of this blog, I shall move on to the man behind the counter.
Twenty four year old Adam has always been a laid back kind of guy. He just rolls with the punches. Even as a child, he didn't really have any grand plans for his future. He worked construction for eight years (still does a little on the side), worked in Dick's Sporting Goods for a while, and now, he manages the Yolly Molly for a friend/future brother-in-law, just biding his time while they make plans for expanding the business.
Physical Description (In his own words): 5'10, athletic build, brown hair, brown eyes, fairly tan, Native American/Italian/Danish/a whole lotta other stuff he doesn't even remember. At the time I met him, he was wearing a Dallas Cowboys Reebok jacket, distressed jeans, Nike athletic shoes, and glasses.
Things that make Adam Smile: 1) Dallas Cowboys victory. Even though he's a 100% Virginian, born and bred, he has always had a rebellious sort of love for the Cowboys. From the Dallas paraphernalia that deck his home walls to the giant Dallas Cowboys tattoo stamped on his ankle/lower leg, he displays his Cowboys pride for all to see. 2) Action/Comedy movies. Among his faves are the Pirates of the Caribbean series, Ocean's Eleven, Super Troopers (Hehe. Shenanigans), and anything with Will Ferrel or Vince Vaughn.
Most Embarrassing Memory: Adam recalled a time when he was at a picnic in a park full of people. He was feeding the ducks on the lake, threw the bread in as hard as he could, but ended up throwing himself in the lake with it. A poor, sopping wet little Adam had to pull himself out, and face a crowd of howling picnic goers. The other time was the time he fell backwards down an escalator. Ouch.
Best Memory: Without a doubt, the day Adam graduated from high school. Even though Adam was a fine student, graduating with a 3.5 GPA and scoring a 1200 on his SATs, academics was simply not his forte, and those four years of high school were just four years too long.
I was rather impressed by what a level headed teenager Adam seemed to be. He watched friends invest in high school relationships that never lasted, and didn't like the way they seemed to be throwing away their youth, so he chose to stay single throughout high school. In fact, very soon, he will be marrying his first love and girlfriend of the last four years. He hasn't proposed yet, but he's been holding on to the ring for several months, waiting for the perfect opportunity. Adam first met his girlfriend through a mutual friend. He got her a job working with him at Dick's, and they built up a sturdy friendship base before dating. It just seemed right, as they got on so well. After being with her for a while, Adam started to see that his girlfriend seemed to be an exact replica of his mother. I guess the saying is true.
Family Situation: It's complicated. I'm typically interested in the beginnings, but what really grabbed my attention was the sort of ending. Adam's mom worked in a paint store, and his father was a painting contractor. He would see her at the store everyday, and that's how they met. They were married for 20 years, had three girls and one Adam, then got "divorced." The reason I use quotes is because they have been in a pending divorce for six years. They moved to separate houses, drew up all the paperwork, and went to court... yet, neither has actually signed the divorce papers. They still remain good friends, spend all the holidays together as a family, and have not even been seeing other people during these six years of separation. With an amused grin on his face, Adam admits that he would not be the least bit surprised if they ended up reuniting. Hmmm. Well, I'm a sucker for love and marriage, so I hope it works out for them.
So what now? Adam's immediate goals (besides finding the perfect timing for asking his lady-fair to marry him) are building and expanding the business. He is thinking of taking classes in marketing, and is eager to promote the Yolly Molly Cafe whenever possible. Well, I've always had pleasant experiences there, so I say, "Go for it!"
Monday, September 19, 2011
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
Conversation with a 5 yr old
Lena: (Baby blue eyes opened wide) Um... do you know what? Come here. I need to tell you something.
Me: What is it?
Lena: I read somewhere that there are purple ants... and blue ants...and even green ants. I hate ants.
Me: Y'know, I heard that in Africa, there are ants that can get up to <-------------------------> this big?
Lena: (Look of horror) Do they bite?
Me: I don't know.
Lena: Where are you from?
Me: Florida
Lena: I'm from here. But my mom is from Georgia.
Me: Really?
Lena: Yes. Her mother was on vacation in Georgia, and started having a baby. So they ran around trying to find a hospital. And they found one. In Georgia.
Me: Wow.
Lena: Gum? It's regular sugar-free kind.
Me: Thank you. How did you skin your knees?
Lena: I was on the blacktop, and I was trying to be faster than Elizabeth, but I wasn't. (Spots a little neighborhood girl walking over to our playground) OH! I know her!
Me: What's her name?
Lena: I don't know. But I know her.
Conversation between 5th and 4th Graders.
4th Grader: I've watched PG-13 movies before.
5th Grader: I've seen rated R movies before.
4th Grader: Sometimes, I play T games! (Video game rating T for Teen)
5th Grader: Well I play T games all the time! I even play M games!
4th Grader: Wow. Middle School.
*For you non-gamers, the M actually stands for Mature :)
Me: What is it?
Lena: I read somewhere that there are purple ants... and blue ants...and even green ants. I hate ants.
Me: Y'know, I heard that in Africa, there are ants that can get up to <-------------------------> this big?
Lena: (Look of horror) Do they bite?
Me: I don't know.
Lena: Where are you from?
Me: Florida
Lena: I'm from here. But my mom is from Georgia.
Me: Really?
Lena: Yes. Her mother was on vacation in Georgia, and started having a baby. So they ran around trying to find a hospital. And they found one. In Georgia.
Me: Wow.
Lena: Gum? It's regular sugar-free kind.
Me: Thank you. How did you skin your knees?
Lena: I was on the blacktop, and I was trying to be faster than Elizabeth, but I wasn't. (Spots a little neighborhood girl walking over to our playground) OH! I know her!
Me: What's her name?
Lena: I don't know. But I know her.
Conversation between 5th and 4th Graders.
4th Grader: I've watched PG-13 movies before.
5th Grader: I've seen rated R movies before.
4th Grader: Sometimes, I play T games! (Video game rating T for Teen)
5th Grader: Well I play T games all the time! I even play M games!
4th Grader: Wow. Middle School.
*For you non-gamers, the M actually stands for Mature :)
Monday, September 12, 2011
Chad, From the Sunshine State
There's no place like home... actually, I like VA just fine. Sorry, Sarasota. I don't miss the humidity, and the mosquitos, and the old people, who are convinced that, because of their advanced years, they ALWAYS have the right of way on the road.
Well, on this particular day, I got a little slice of home. The first thing I notice about Chad is the Gator Band shirt he is sporting. What can I say? Orange and blue still runs through my veins. Both my sisters graduated from UF, so ours has always been a Gator household. Ironically, despite the fact that he knows a ton of people who went to UF for undergrad, and I know a ton of people who went to UF for undergrad, and we are the same age, there is not a single mutual friend between us. Maybe it's because he hung out with all the mega-geniuses who spat on the less genius people, like myself. I wouldn't put it past this Cornell 2Ler with a love for litigation.
Even at a tender age, Chad knew what he liked and what he wanted to be. He liked to argue, so it was the law for him. Chad loves the idea that you can use arguments to convince people. To him, a lawyer in a courtroom is like a brilliant performer, no less impressive than a singer or a sports superstar. They all have those defining bottom of the 9th, bases loaded moments, where all eyes are on them and they can either make complete asses of themselves, or take it home. Oldest child complex? Perhaps. With a younger sister studying telecommunication at UF, and a younger brother at college in Daytona on a baseball scholarship, of course the older brother has to be the most tenacious, and pave the way of success!
There was a brief phase in his early teens when he wanted to be a pastor like his grandfather, but Granddad told him that he could make a greater impact on many more lives as a lawyer.
Physical Description (In his own words): I am a 6'0'' Italian with lighter wavy hair. I'm thin, but not skinny; strong, but not a bodybuilder; tan, but not dark. I think my eyes are my best feature. They are green, with a splash of orange in the middle.
The Beginning of it All: So there was this public school teacher in the making and a future probation officer, who met at Southeastern University in Florida. The teacher was from New York, and the probation officer hailed from a one restaurant town in Mississippi called Hurley. Sparks flew, the friendship grew, and they were preparing to say "I do" then... STOP. They broke it off and did not speak to each other for a very long time. They started seeing other people, and supposedly moved on with their lives. BUT, that's not the end of the story. Around Thanksgiving time, the teacher was at her aunt's house, when she noticed a picture of herself and the probation officer on her aunt's fridge.
"Auntie, why is there a picture of me with THAT guy on your fridge?"
The aunt said, "Y'know, I always thought you two belonged together."
This got the teacher to thinking. The very next day, she called him. They started talking again, and within four months, they were re-engaged. And they have been married for 25 years. They and their three children of Italian/Scot/American/Chocatow descent. (They say 50% American b/c they trace their lineage pretty much back to the Mayflower.) But that's STILL not the whole story.
Unbeknownst to the school teacher, the probation officer had always had lingering feelings for her, and had been frustrated that his earlier attempts to rekindle their relationship had led nowhere. This built up frustration eventually came to a head, and the probation officer told God that he was going to stop stressing himself out, and was going let "Jesus Take the Wheel" on this one. He no longer had the strength to try and make things happen when her heart was not beating in his direction. Well, the very next day, the probation officer got a phone call, and it was a Thanksgiving call that changed his life forever.
Chad has also had his little bouts with love. Both with younger women. Cradle-rob much? The first was when he was a Senior in high school, and she, a sophomore. That lasted until his first year of college. I guess the long distancing it while she was still in high school was just too much for the pair. According to Chad, "She became crazy, and I grew up."
The second incident happened just this past year. Chad loved a UF undergrad student while he had started as a 1L at Cornell. This one was four years younger, but once again, it was the distance that leveled the fatal blow to the relationship. Tough luck, Chad. Maybe you need to get a dog.
So, he's still single... I think. Ladies, if you're younger than 23 (remember he likes em young), and lookin' for a future litigator to love on, I may or may not have some Facebook info of his lying around ;)
Well, on this particular day, I got a little slice of home. The first thing I notice about Chad is the Gator Band shirt he is sporting. What can I say? Orange and blue still runs through my veins. Both my sisters graduated from UF, so ours has always been a Gator household. Ironically, despite the fact that he knows a ton of people who went to UF for undergrad, and I know a ton of people who went to UF for undergrad, and we are the same age, there is not a single mutual friend between us. Maybe it's because he hung out with all the mega-geniuses who spat on the less genius people, like myself. I wouldn't put it past this Cornell 2Ler with a love for litigation.
Even at a tender age, Chad knew what he liked and what he wanted to be. He liked to argue, so it was the law for him. Chad loves the idea that you can use arguments to convince people. To him, a lawyer in a courtroom is like a brilliant performer, no less impressive than a singer or a sports superstar. They all have those defining bottom of the 9th, bases loaded moments, where all eyes are on them and they can either make complete asses of themselves, or take it home. Oldest child complex? Perhaps. With a younger sister studying telecommunication at UF, and a younger brother at college in Daytona on a baseball scholarship, of course the older brother has to be the most tenacious, and pave the way of success!
There was a brief phase in his early teens when he wanted to be a pastor like his grandfather, but Granddad told him that he could make a greater impact on many more lives as a lawyer.
Physical Description (In his own words): I am a 6'0'' Italian with lighter wavy hair. I'm thin, but not skinny; strong, but not a bodybuilder; tan, but not dark. I think my eyes are my best feature. They are green, with a splash of orange in the middle.
Things that make Chad Smile Really Big: 1) Going to Gator games. 2) Going to concerts (especially rock concerts). 3) Being on the water. 4) Watching B-Rated movies on Sunday afternoons with friends and family. 5) Consuming cheddar cheese, pepperoni, crackers, and white wine with family. (Not with friends, because a guy who sits around and eats cheese and crackers with friends sounds too effeminate.)
Best Memory: When Chad just graduated from UF, he and some close friends took a trip to the Keys. They spent the night out on the beach, smoking their stogies, reminiscing, and looking up at the stars. It was so dark, they could even see the Milky Way. "It was just so chill, so at peace, and so warm. We had a good time reflecting, sharing our sense of accomplishment, and knowing that we were going to crazy, new places."
Worst Memory: An 8 year old Chad was doing some shopping with mom in Wally World, when he felt the intense urge to do the potty dance. Mom was doing what moms do best in stores, i.e., take for flipping ever, and so he sprinted off on his own to seek relief. Seeing the blessed sign for the restrooms, he ran in, dropped his drawers, and started doing his business. About halfway through, he heard the sound of singing. Female singing. Sure enough, in his haste, this poor tyke had wandered into the forbidden stalls of the opposite sex. Waiting until the singing was gone, he emerged, shamefaced, and ran back to his mother.
The Beginning of it All: So there was this public school teacher in the making and a future probation officer, who met at Southeastern University in Florida. The teacher was from New York, and the probation officer hailed from a one restaurant town in Mississippi called Hurley. Sparks flew, the friendship grew, and they were preparing to say "I do" then... STOP. They broke it off and did not speak to each other for a very long time. They started seeing other people, and supposedly moved on with their lives. BUT, that's not the end of the story. Around Thanksgiving time, the teacher was at her aunt's house, when she noticed a picture of herself and the probation officer on her aunt's fridge.
"Auntie, why is there a picture of me with THAT guy on your fridge?"
The aunt said, "Y'know, I always thought you two belonged together."
This got the teacher to thinking. The very next day, she called him. They started talking again, and within four months, they were re-engaged. And they have been married for 25 years. They and their three children of Italian/Scot/American/Chocatow descent. (They say 50% American b/c they trace their lineage pretty much back to the Mayflower.) But that's STILL not the whole story.
Unbeknownst to the school teacher, the probation officer had always had lingering feelings for her, and had been frustrated that his earlier attempts to rekindle their relationship had led nowhere. This built up frustration eventually came to a head, and the probation officer told God that he was going to stop stressing himself out, and was going let "Jesus Take the Wheel" on this one. He no longer had the strength to try and make things happen when her heart was not beating in his direction. Well, the very next day, the probation officer got a phone call, and it was a Thanksgiving call that changed his life forever.
Chad has also had his little bouts with love. Both with younger women. Cradle-rob much? The first was when he was a Senior in high school, and she, a sophomore. That lasted until his first year of college. I guess the long distancing it while she was still in high school was just too much for the pair. According to Chad, "She became crazy, and I grew up."
The second incident happened just this past year. Chad loved a UF undergrad student while he had started as a 1L at Cornell. This one was four years younger, but once again, it was the distance that leveled the fatal blow to the relationship. Tough luck, Chad. Maybe you need to get a dog.
So, he's still single... I think. Ladies, if you're younger than 23 (remember he likes em young), and lookin' for a future litigator to love on, I may or may not have some Facebook info of his lying around ;)
Sunday, September 11, 2011
Katie: Label Whore
I found a kindred spirit of fashion! So, I'm at a party and this adorable girl walks in. Of course, the first thing I notice is what she's wearing. An amazing floral print wrap dress and high wedge sandals. Her feet are pedicured to perfection, and her short blonde hair is side swept and held in place with a flower detailed bobby pin.
This is a male dominated soiree, so I am thrilled to see another female with whom I can make intelligible conversation. (I can't talk football to save my life.) In true meeting-complete-strangers-at-wetdowns fashion, I ask "So, are you a Marine or a significant other?" My jaw drops as I hear the words, "Marine."
Yes. This petite, epitome of femininity is also a rifle-shooting, 100+lb bag toting, butt kicking officer in the United States Marine Corps. Her name is Katie, she is twenty four, and she is celebrating her one year wedding anniversary all by herself, while her husband (also a Marine) celebrates all by himself at NAS in Pensacola. How sad.
She met him at Embry Riddle, where they both attended, and she majored in aeronautics. They fell in love, eloped, and went their separate ways to their training assignments. One year later, they're still talking every day, and loving every bit of young married life, even at a distance. To mark the occasion, she took a trip to J.Crew, and found herself an anniversary present "from her hubby."
We talk shop for a bit, discuss the new Fall line at J.Crew, and she relates her experiences working retail at BCBG Max Azria, when I mention the words "Hunter Wellies," and the floodgates open up. It seems we have very similar In-Your-Dreams wishlists, and they mainly consist of clothing items far beyond our pay grades. There is a moment where we share a smile, she sighs, and says, "I'm so glad that I have found a fellow label whore. You can understand me when I explain how I almost s*** my pants at the sight of Balmain leopard print boots in my size for only $300." Yes, Katie. I understand. I understand why someone would put aside $100 every month just so you can buy yourself a pair of patent leather Christian Louboutins at the end of your training period.
I smile, and nod in appreciation, then the conversation does a dramatic 180 as she relates her humping trips from hell in the Quantico wilderness. No tents, no showers, no shaving, no toilets, no fun for 5 days straight. Just a weeklong of the mosquitos, the hornets, the ticks, the black widows, and your own filth. All while carrying a pack that weighs as much as you do. And when it rains, Katie says she feels like jumping off a cliff, just so that she might be injured enough to get sent back. And these delightful outings come around once every month.
I decide that I will never again complain about physical discomfort, until the day when I have to take care of my female issues in the woods, in the rain, with 120lb on my back, in front of the deer and all of nature.
Truly an anomaly. Katie has completely changed my conceptions of women in the Marines.
This is a male dominated soiree, so I am thrilled to see another female with whom I can make intelligible conversation. (I can't talk football to save my life.) In true meeting-complete-strangers-at-wetdowns fashion, I ask "So, are you a Marine or a significant other?" My jaw drops as I hear the words, "Marine."
Yes. This petite, epitome of femininity is also a rifle-shooting, 100+lb bag toting, butt kicking officer in the United States Marine Corps. Her name is Katie, she is twenty four, and she is celebrating her one year wedding anniversary all by herself, while her husband (also a Marine) celebrates all by himself at NAS in Pensacola. How sad.
She met him at Embry Riddle, where they both attended, and she majored in aeronautics. They fell in love, eloped, and went their separate ways to their training assignments. One year later, they're still talking every day, and loving every bit of young married life, even at a distance. To mark the occasion, she took a trip to J.Crew, and found herself an anniversary present "from her hubby."
We talk shop for a bit, discuss the new Fall line at J.Crew, and she relates her experiences working retail at BCBG Max Azria, when I mention the words "Hunter Wellies," and the floodgates open up. It seems we have very similar In-Your-Dreams wishlists, and they mainly consist of clothing items far beyond our pay grades. There is a moment where we share a smile, she sighs, and says, "I'm so glad that I have found a fellow label whore. You can understand me when I explain how I almost s*** my pants at the sight of Balmain leopard print boots in my size for only $300." Yes, Katie. I understand. I understand why someone would put aside $100 every month just so you can buy yourself a pair of patent leather Christian Louboutins at the end of your training period.
I smile, and nod in appreciation, then the conversation does a dramatic 180 as she relates her humping trips from hell in the Quantico wilderness. No tents, no showers, no shaving, no toilets, no fun for 5 days straight. Just a weeklong of the mosquitos, the hornets, the ticks, the black widows, and your own filth. All while carrying a pack that weighs as much as you do. And when it rains, Katie says she feels like jumping off a cliff, just so that she might be injured enough to get sent back. And these delightful outings come around once every month.
I decide that I will never again complain about physical discomfort, until the day when I have to take care of my female issues in the woods, in the rain, with 120lb on my back, in front of the deer and all of nature.
Truly an anomaly. Katie has completely changed my conceptions of women in the Marines.
Thursday, September 8, 2011
Overload
So, these past two days, I have been overwhelmed with all the new persons, big and small, that I have had to meet. I started my job in Aftercare, and have had about 30 new names and faces to learn. Since I cannot make 30 different profiles for each child and faculty member I meet, I will post little snippets of the ones I can remember.
Joshua LOVES hugs.
Zachary is frequently called "Joshua" and he hates it.
Carter has an incredibly high pain tolerance level and can take a hockey stick slap to the collarbone without flinching. Also, he sings Ke$ha to distract the other team.
Lena had a big, fat four year old crush on Carter, but now that she's five, she may or may not be over it. Also, she "came from the Italians."
When playing dodgeball, Julia-Margaret will actually throw balls over to the other team's side when they run out. She also cheers for her teammates when they miss a goal. Talk about sportsmanship!
Elizabeth's dodgeball strategy is to keep her teammates supplied with balls, and not get hit. Unfortunately, her tactics do not include throwing the balls at the other team.
Rebecca is the most aggressive little Chinese girl I have ever met. She also talks aloud to amuse herself while doing her homework, and it take her twice as long to finish.
Sarah can slip back and forth between 8 yr old tone and authoritative adult tone like Halle Berry can cry on command.
Betsy is almost engaged, and will soon be a pastor's wife in Pennsylvania. She also taught herself how to play Bach's Minuet in G.
Daniel is quiet, respectful, obedient, a good sport, and one of the most helpful kids in Aftercare, next to Julia-Margaret. He is a teacher's dream.
Karen is good at asking polite questions, but not quite as attentive when listening to the answers.
Abigail likes to walk around pretending to be blind.
Joshua LOVES hugs.
Zachary is frequently called "Joshua" and he hates it.
Carter has an incredibly high pain tolerance level and can take a hockey stick slap to the collarbone without flinching. Also, he sings Ke$ha to distract the other team.
Lena had a big, fat four year old crush on Carter, but now that she's five, she may or may not be over it. Also, she "came from the Italians."
When playing dodgeball, Julia-Margaret will actually throw balls over to the other team's side when they run out. She also cheers for her teammates when they miss a goal. Talk about sportsmanship!
Elizabeth's dodgeball strategy is to keep her teammates supplied with balls, and not get hit. Unfortunately, her tactics do not include throwing the balls at the other team.
Rebecca is the most aggressive little Chinese girl I have ever met. She also talks aloud to amuse herself while doing her homework, and it take her twice as long to finish.
Sarah can slip back and forth between 8 yr old tone and authoritative adult tone like Halle Berry can cry on command.
Betsy is almost engaged, and will soon be a pastor's wife in Pennsylvania. She also taught herself how to play Bach's Minuet in G.
Daniel is quiet, respectful, obedient, a good sport, and one of the most helpful kids in Aftercare, next to Julia-Margaret. He is a teacher's dream.
Karen is good at asking polite questions, but not quite as attentive when listening to the answers.
Abigail likes to walk around pretending to be blind.
Monday, September 5, 2011
Patrick
Wow. So far, one of the most interesting people I've met in a long time. A lot of people I meet like to give me a long laundry list of all the things they have done right. Phil simply told us what he did. And boy, has he done a lot.
I am sitting outside, enjoying some Labor Day BBQ with my friends, when I notice a man with reddish hair walking by with his pitbull. Moments later, he goes back the opposite way, with two more pitbulls. Being the charismatic, friendly guy that he is, my buddy Adam offers him a burger. Before the man can even respond, one of his lovely pooches cops a squat, right in front of us, and drops some burgers of her own. The man declines the burger (apparently he has to keep his stomach empty for the feast his mother and his lady are preparing for him at home), and apologizes profusely for the little show his bitch gave all of us as we ate. "No problem, man"s are passed around the picnic table, and we bid him farewell.
No more than five minutes pass when along comes Patrick (no pitbulls this time), carrying a large, stockpot. He removes the lid to reveal an ice bucket full of Budweisers. He explains that this is his expiation. As he plops the cauldron onto the table, he grins. "I hope you guys like beer. I'm not walkin' in on an AA meeting here, am I?" It is the first time I get a good look at him, from the loose fitting shorts and the T-shirt with "F*** Uncle Sam, F*** the World, and F*** _insert any random word you can think of_"strewn across it, one would think him a young man in his twenties. As it turns out, Patrick is just a young man in his forties. Forty-two to be exact. And privileged to be able to do what he loves for a living.
Physical Description in His Own Word: 6ft tall, pretty physically fit. Generally outdoorsy guy. Short, red, blondish hair. Basically good health. For many of his adult years Patrick was accustomed to being the slightly "bigger guy," but in recent years has slimmed down. *The second time I met him, he had ditched the F-bomb shirt for a brown dress shirt and slacks.
Patrick does set construction for film. Among his extensive portfolio are such pieces as Minority Report, Transformers I and II, Planet of the Apes, Mr. and Mrs. Smith, Visa Commercials, and Music Videos for Destiny's Child, Eminem, and the Backstreet Boys. He even built the famed feet propelled cars in the live action Flinstones Movie. Pat does not shy away from admitting that "I am good at what I do." Known by his friends and co-workers as "The Fiberglass Guru," he charges 20% above the going rate, because he can. With little more than a 9th grade education, Patrick picked up the skill of working with fiber glass at an early age. He also worked in a Corvette shop for six years. Soon after, he left for California to live with his brother, went to Six Flags Theme Park to work on a Space Shuttle set with him. Three weeks later, he was hired as a foreman and was immediately sent to work on a project in Las Vegas. And he's been working the craft ever since.
Throughout his life, his family, especially his mother, has had a definite impact on his life. While in Vegas, a huge earthquake hit CA and Patrick decided to move permanently to Vegas. For about eight months, he lived in a hotel room, then found an apartment in “drug alley.” After building scenery at Buffalo Bill’s, Pat went to work for a company building sound systems. It was 1996, and his first project was the sound system at the Rio casino and hotel. At the opening of the Rio was where he first laid eyes on his soon to be (and current) girlfriend of 18 years. Soon after, his team set up the Hard Rock sound system. The company set him up with a corporate apartment and a truck. Patrick and his girl stayed in Vegas until around ’98 when they moved back to California. This is when he got back into building sets. The doors of opportunity flew wide open, he came upon a couple good production set designers who really liked him, and things just kept rolling. Pat attributes his good work ethic to his parents. "My parents have always given me good information, always been there for me. I was definitely not spoiled. Dad was really hard on me, Mom was really good to me. I used to be the worst kid, but now I’m the most responsible one, coming home and taking care of mom. I’m glad I’ve come back to Virginia, and that my baby boy is gonna be born here."At the ripe age of 42, Patrick is going to be a proud (and terrified) father for the first time. Another positive influence in Patrick's life was his grandfather. "My grandfather could pull a smile out of a rock. And I’ve always wanted to be like my grandfather in that regard. I always wanna make someone laugh." Patrick knows he can't take all the credit for all the successes in his life. In addition to his family, Pat gives an occasional shout-out to the Almighty. "My church is on the lake. I'm not a religious guy, but out there, in all that beauty, that’s where I go to talk to the man upstairs, I know He’s watchin’ out for me."
Patrick's Best Memories (In his own words): I was doing a Mercedes commercial, where there is a guy in the Mercedes, sitting in a wind-tunnel. The guy is just cruising along when the wind tunnel explodes, but the Mercedes just keeps on cruising. I called up my dad, who I hadn't seen in a while, because I wanted him to see my work. He was out in CA with his new wife, and agreed to fly out for a day. I told the guys at the studio that I might be running a bit late, because I had to pick up my dad from the airport, and they held everything, and waited for me. I bring my dad to the studio, and everyone’s there and ready to go. The production designer looks at me and says, “you ready to go?” I said, “Yeah.” And the director said, “Action.” The wind-tunnel exploded and blew our hair off. My dad had tears in his yes, and by the way he looked at me, I knew he was proud. I’ve never seen him cry. He was raised to show no emotion. After he flew home, my dad called my mom, whom he hadn't spoken to in years, and he told her, “Yknow, I never told you this, but you did a really good job raising Pat.”This was one of the best moments of my life.
The other favorite memory of his, was the time Patrick bought himself a brand new Magnum. His mom came out to visit him in California. She had been driving a beat up Toyota Corolla at the time. He spent a great day with her, then at the end of the day, he handed her the keys to the brand new car he had just bought, and she said, “what is this?” and began to cry. She called every few days after that, and a month later, she called and said, “I’m home.” A baffled Patrick asked for further explanation. She had put 7700 miles on the car driving from CA back to VA. Apparently, Mom had taken that car for quite the month-long joy ride. Then came some of the sweetest words to alight on Patrick's ears: “That was the best time and the best trip I’ve ever had in my entire life.”
During his forty two year long career as a human being, Patrick has also experienced his rough spots as well. In his younger days, he fell in love with a girl, and wanted to marry her. While she was gone visiting family in Pennsylvania, Patrick put down $1500 on a ring, and planned his perfect proposal. That night, she walked in to 100 lit candles and homemade Chinese food and told him. “I’m leaving you tonight.” Behind her, in walked this big, black dude. She motioned toward him and said, “I’m with him now.” With nowhere else to go, Patrick ended up staying with an ex girlfriend from high school and her husband for a bit, then called up his two brothers in California, whom he hadn’t seen in 15 yrs. It was then that his career took off.
As a result of working on so many movie sets, Patrick has definitely developed strong opinions of some of the actors he has come in contact with. There is special place in his heart devoted to the fierce distaste for Nicole Kidman. In his own words, "Nicole Kidman is a something I can't say in the presence of ladies. There is nothing good about that woman." Among some of his favorite actors to have worked with are Halle Berry, Christopher Walken, and Robert DeNiro (who "really loves his black women").
When asked who his favorite Hollywood actor was (as a person, not as an actor), he give it some thought before deciding on Jack Nicholson. One of Patrick's favorite memories on set is the time he was working on a Playboy set, and Jack walks up and queries, "What's with the naked girl on the horse?" Pat and the crew invite him over to come and watch the show with them. Sure enough, Jack joins the crew in some friendly Playboy commentary and even in the sharing of some Mary Jane. Patrick unabashedly admits, “I’ll smoke pot til the day I die. I love my marijuana. But [now that I'm going to be a father] I’m leaving everything else alone.”
Things that make Patrick Smile: Stray dogs. Most of his dogs have been strays, and he has had quite a few of them. Currently, it is his pitbulls that are his pride and joy. One in particular, a strong-willed one named Harley, who he loves to take with him when he goes long-boarding. As a favor to Harley, he waited for a while before having him fixed because he "figured he should have some fun first." Now Phil wonders if it would have been better if the poor dog just never even knew what he was missing out on. As much a Pat loves his pooches, he is fully prepared to put them out at the first snap at his child. Patrick also has a strong penchant for motorcycles and nice cars. He once sold a '69 Firebird to Pamela Anderson while working on the set of Baywatch, and to this day, holds a photocopy of the blessed check.
If Patrick ever met his 15 year old self he would say... "Stay in school, do not take Home Economics, because all the girls are in there, and that’s not what school’s about. Take Spanish, and pay better attention to Math."
In some respects, I really envy the guy. To have a skill that will always be in high demand, and to be able to work when you want to and not work when you don't want to. On top of that, getting paid to do something that you love.
*If you want to see some of his work, you can click on the hyperlinked text above.
I am sitting outside, enjoying some Labor Day BBQ with my friends, when I notice a man with reddish hair walking by with his pitbull. Moments later, he goes back the opposite way, with two more pitbulls. Being the charismatic, friendly guy that he is, my buddy Adam offers him a burger. Before the man can even respond, one of his lovely pooches cops a squat, right in front of us, and drops some burgers of her own. The man declines the burger (apparently he has to keep his stomach empty for the feast his mother and his lady are preparing for him at home), and apologizes profusely for the little show his bitch gave all of us as we ate. "No problem, man"s are passed around the picnic table, and we bid him farewell.
No more than five minutes pass when along comes Patrick (no pitbulls this time), carrying a large, stockpot. He removes the lid to reveal an ice bucket full of Budweisers. He explains that this is his expiation. As he plops the cauldron onto the table, he grins. "I hope you guys like beer. I'm not walkin' in on an AA meeting here, am I?" It is the first time I get a good look at him, from the loose fitting shorts and the T-shirt with "F*** Uncle Sam, F*** the World, and F*** _insert any random word you can think of_"strewn across it, one would think him a young man in his twenties. As it turns out, Patrick is just a young man in his forties. Forty-two to be exact. And privileged to be able to do what he loves for a living.
Physical Description in His Own Word: 6ft tall, pretty physically fit. Generally outdoorsy guy. Short, red, blondish hair. Basically good health. For many of his adult years Patrick was accustomed to being the slightly "bigger guy," but in recent years has slimmed down. *The second time I met him, he had ditched the F-bomb shirt for a brown dress shirt and slacks.
Patrick does set construction for film. Among his extensive portfolio are such pieces as Minority Report, Transformers I and II, Planet of the Apes, Mr. and Mrs. Smith, Visa Commercials, and Music Videos for Destiny's Child, Eminem, and the Backstreet Boys. He even built the famed feet propelled cars in the live action Flinstones Movie. Pat does not shy away from admitting that "I am good at what I do." Known by his friends and co-workers as "The Fiberglass Guru," he charges 20% above the going rate, because he can. With little more than a 9th grade education, Patrick picked up the skill of working with fiber glass at an early age. He also worked in a Corvette shop for six years. Soon after, he left for California to live with his brother, went to Six Flags Theme Park to work on a Space Shuttle set with him. Three weeks later, he was hired as a foreman and was immediately sent to work on a project in Las Vegas. And he's been working the craft ever since.
Throughout his life, his family, especially his mother, has had a definite impact on his life. While in Vegas, a huge earthquake hit CA and Patrick decided to move permanently to Vegas. For about eight months, he lived in a hotel room, then found an apartment in “drug alley.” After building scenery at Buffalo Bill’s, Pat went to work for a company building sound systems. It was 1996, and his first project was the sound system at the Rio casino and hotel. At the opening of the Rio was where he first laid eyes on his soon to be (and current) girlfriend of 18 years. Soon after, his team set up the Hard Rock sound system. The company set him up with a corporate apartment and a truck. Patrick and his girl stayed in Vegas until around ’98 when they moved back to California. This is when he got back into building sets. The doors of opportunity flew wide open, he came upon a couple good production set designers who really liked him, and things just kept rolling. Pat attributes his good work ethic to his parents. "My parents have always given me good information, always been there for me. I was definitely not spoiled. Dad was really hard on me, Mom was really good to me. I used to be the worst kid, but now I’m the most responsible one, coming home and taking care of mom. I’m glad I’ve come back to Virginia, and that my baby boy is gonna be born here."At the ripe age of 42, Patrick is going to be a proud (and terrified) father for the first time. Another positive influence in Patrick's life was his grandfather. "My grandfather could pull a smile out of a rock. And I’ve always wanted to be like my grandfather in that regard. I always wanna make someone laugh." Patrick knows he can't take all the credit for all the successes in his life. In addition to his family, Pat gives an occasional shout-out to the Almighty. "My church is on the lake. I'm not a religious guy, but out there, in all that beauty, that’s where I go to talk to the man upstairs, I know He’s watchin’ out for me."
Patrick's Best Memories (In his own words): I was doing a Mercedes commercial, where there is a guy in the Mercedes, sitting in a wind-tunnel. The guy is just cruising along when the wind tunnel explodes, but the Mercedes just keeps on cruising. I called up my dad, who I hadn't seen in a while, because I wanted him to see my work. He was out in CA with his new wife, and agreed to fly out for a day. I told the guys at the studio that I might be running a bit late, because I had to pick up my dad from the airport, and they held everything, and waited for me. I bring my dad to the studio, and everyone’s there and ready to go. The production designer looks at me and says, “you ready to go?” I said, “Yeah.” And the director said, “Action.” The wind-tunnel exploded and blew our hair off. My dad had tears in his yes, and by the way he looked at me, I knew he was proud. I’ve never seen him cry. He was raised to show no emotion. After he flew home, my dad called my mom, whom he hadn't spoken to in years, and he told her, “Yknow, I never told you this, but you did a really good job raising Pat.”This was one of the best moments of my life.
The other favorite memory of his, was the time Patrick bought himself a brand new Magnum. His mom came out to visit him in California. She had been driving a beat up Toyota Corolla at the time. He spent a great day with her, then at the end of the day, he handed her the keys to the brand new car he had just bought, and she said, “what is this?” and began to cry. She called every few days after that, and a month later, she called and said, “I’m home.” A baffled Patrick asked for further explanation. She had put 7700 miles on the car driving from CA back to VA. Apparently, Mom had taken that car for quite the month-long joy ride. Then came some of the sweetest words to alight on Patrick's ears: “That was the best time and the best trip I’ve ever had in my entire life.”
During his forty two year long career as a human being, Patrick has also experienced his rough spots as well. In his younger days, he fell in love with a girl, and wanted to marry her. While she was gone visiting family in Pennsylvania, Patrick put down $1500 on a ring, and planned his perfect proposal. That night, she walked in to 100 lit candles and homemade Chinese food and told him. “I’m leaving you tonight.” Behind her, in walked this big, black dude. She motioned toward him and said, “I’m with him now.” With nowhere else to go, Patrick ended up staying with an ex girlfriend from high school and her husband for a bit, then called up his two brothers in California, whom he hadn’t seen in 15 yrs. It was then that his career took off.
As a result of working on so many movie sets, Patrick has definitely developed strong opinions of some of the actors he has come in contact with. There is special place in his heart devoted to the fierce distaste for Nicole Kidman. In his own words, "Nicole Kidman is a something I can't say in the presence of ladies. There is nothing good about that woman." Among some of his favorite actors to have worked with are Halle Berry, Christopher Walken, and Robert DeNiro (who "really loves his black women").
When asked who his favorite Hollywood actor was (as a person, not as an actor), he give it some thought before deciding on Jack Nicholson. One of Patrick's favorite memories on set is the time he was working on a Playboy set, and Jack walks up and queries, "What's with the naked girl on the horse?" Pat and the crew invite him over to come and watch the show with them. Sure enough, Jack joins the crew in some friendly Playboy commentary and even in the sharing of some Mary Jane. Patrick unabashedly admits, “I’ll smoke pot til the day I die. I love my marijuana. But [now that I'm going to be a father] I’m leaving everything else alone.”
Things that make Patrick Smile: Stray dogs. Most of his dogs have been strays, and he has had quite a few of them. Currently, it is his pitbulls that are his pride and joy. One in particular, a strong-willed one named Harley, who he loves to take with him when he goes long-boarding. As a favor to Harley, he waited for a while before having him fixed because he "figured he should have some fun first." Now Phil wonders if it would have been better if the poor dog just never even knew what he was missing out on. As much a Pat loves his pooches, he is fully prepared to put them out at the first snap at his child. Patrick also has a strong penchant for motorcycles and nice cars. He once sold a '69 Firebird to Pamela Anderson while working on the set of Baywatch, and to this day, holds a photocopy of the blessed check.
If Patrick ever met his 15 year old self he would say... "Stay in school, do not take Home Economics, because all the girls are in there, and that’s not what school’s about. Take Spanish, and pay better attention to Math."
In some respects, I really envy the guy. To have a skill that will always be in high demand, and to be able to work when you want to and not work when you don't want to. On top of that, getting paid to do something that you love.
*If you want to see some of his work, you can click on the hyperlinked text above.
Saturday, September 3, 2011
Oreos. The good kind. Part II
Simone, the Songstress Oreo.
Physical Description (in her own words): 5'8, beige skin tone, dark green eyes, red curly hair (her favorite feature), wearing very very colorful, bright (but not neon) tribal-ish paint top, dark jean shorts, and floral sandals.
Not gonna lie. I am pretty intrigued when, straight out the gate, this long haired Irish-looking beauty informs me that she is actually half African American. I pick my jaw up off the wooden table, and scrutinize her appearance for any hint of African features. There are none. Seeing the incredulity etched across my face, she attempts to strengthen the verity of her statement by pointing out that the African physiognomy is more apparent in her younger sister, Cameron. Soon after, my faith is shaken once more when said younger sister walks up, and appears to look every bit as Caucasian as her sister. Luckily, her father does come by eventually, and all is proven to be just as she had said. The other half of her includes British, Norwegian, Swedish, and Irish.
Though Simone proclaims the love story between her father and mother to be a bit on the dull side, I insist that theirs may be one of my favorites. They met at work, at a lunch. They dated for four years, and had a practical engagement to follow a practical relationship. What started as a sharing of common values, became a no-fanfare agreement that marriage was the next sensible step. I was most struck by the sweet, simple statement that "they were just best friends that got married."
As for Simone, she cannot quite figure out if she herself has ever been in love or not. She has fallen for a few guys, but not really sure if they were returned, or even if she really loved them at all. In her words, "it's complicated." She has never had a real boyfriend, but she generally likes guys who are humorous, outgoing, and creative.
Things that make Simone smile really big: Dance. Specifically jazz, contemporary, ballet, hip hop, and a little bit of tap. She is enjoying trying all the different flavors. One of her guilty pleasures includes the occasional cheesy teen book. The last one she enjoyed was a fun piece of work titled Babe in Boyland.
But cheesy teen fiction is not Simone's only guilty pleasure. Apparently, the only thing not quite so level headed about her parents is her mom's obsession with health food. She even makes her own ketchup, mayonnaise, and mustard. White bread always has been, and always will be out of the question. On occasion, Simone has been known to gorge herself on the soft, white slices of heaven during her visits to Maddie's house, where it is not forbidden.
When asked what her aspirations in life were, Simone is more than ready to give her answer. The life of a performer is the lot she would choose. Since the age of 6, she has dreamed of the stage, and of being a singer, like her idol, Beyonce. Though currently part of a chorus, she knows, beyond the shadow of a doubt, that out in the spotlight is where she yearns to be. In ten years, she hopes to be in either New York City or Los Angeles, performing on stage, with a serious boyfriend to cheer her on in the wings. How can one not fall in love with such pure enthusiasm?
Physical Description (in her own words): 5'8, beige skin tone, dark green eyes, red curly hair (her favorite feature), wearing very very colorful, bright (but not neon) tribal-ish paint top, dark jean shorts, and floral sandals.
Not gonna lie. I am pretty intrigued when, straight out the gate, this long haired Irish-looking beauty informs me that she is actually half African American. I pick my jaw up off the wooden table, and scrutinize her appearance for any hint of African features. There are none. Seeing the incredulity etched across my face, she attempts to strengthen the verity of her statement by pointing out that the African physiognomy is more apparent in her younger sister, Cameron. Soon after, my faith is shaken once more when said younger sister walks up, and appears to look every bit as Caucasian as her sister. Luckily, her father does come by eventually, and all is proven to be just as she had said. The other half of her includes British, Norwegian, Swedish, and Irish.
Though Simone proclaims the love story between her father and mother to be a bit on the dull side, I insist that theirs may be one of my favorites. They met at work, at a lunch. They dated for four years, and had a practical engagement to follow a practical relationship. What started as a sharing of common values, became a no-fanfare agreement that marriage was the next sensible step. I was most struck by the sweet, simple statement that "they were just best friends that got married."
As for Simone, she cannot quite figure out if she herself has ever been in love or not. She has fallen for a few guys, but not really sure if they were returned, or even if she really loved them at all. In her words, "it's complicated." She has never had a real boyfriend, but she generally likes guys who are humorous, outgoing, and creative.
Things that make Simone smile really big: Dance. Specifically jazz, contemporary, ballet, hip hop, and a little bit of tap. She is enjoying trying all the different flavors. One of her guilty pleasures includes the occasional cheesy teen book. The last one she enjoyed was a fun piece of work titled Babe in Boyland.
But cheesy teen fiction is not Simone's only guilty pleasure. Apparently, the only thing not quite so level headed about her parents is her mom's obsession with health food. She even makes her own ketchup, mayonnaise, and mustard. White bread always has been, and always will be out of the question. On occasion, Simone has been known to gorge herself on the soft, white slices of heaven during her visits to Maddie's house, where it is not forbidden.
When asked what her aspirations in life were, Simone is more than ready to give her answer. The life of a performer is the lot she would choose. Since the age of 6, she has dreamed of the stage, and of being a singer, like her idol, Beyonce. Though currently part of a chorus, she knows, beyond the shadow of a doubt, that out in the spotlight is where she yearns to be. In ten years, she hopes to be in either New York City or Los Angeles, performing on stage, with a serious boyfriend to cheer her on in the wings. How can one not fall in love with such pure enthusiasm?
Oreos. The good kind. Part I
What could I possibly mean? Well, there are two meanings behind the title.
First, to what else could I be referring by "the good kind"but the one and only DOUBLE STUFFED! Today, it was my great fortune to make the acquaintances of not one, but TWO delightful young ladies. (Technically two and a half, since younger sister, Cameron, walked in on the scene halfway through.)
Second, one of the young ladies, to my great surprise, turned out to be one of the most unique blends of vanilla and chocolate I have ever seen. (Explanation to come at a later time.)
This entry will be posted in two parts because a) we are dealing with 2 equally unique individuals and b) I can't seem to get anything written when my good friend, Aidan, decides to be distracting. So here goes.
I'm walking down the aisle of Barnes and Noble, when the tinkling of laughter catches my ear, and I stop in my tracks. Nothing can pique my interest like the sound of fun, so naturally, I have to investigate. What I find are two heads together, sharing a moment of mirth over something, I assume, is being read by one or both of the young ladies. There sit Maddie and Simone, BFF's since the 2nd grade, delighting in their common love for literature. Much like Shannon and I, when we were also bright-eyed 15 year olds, with the luxury of getting lost in our novels for hours at a time.
This time, I am able to get a good look at the book titles. Maddie's selection includes Wuthering Heights, Dracula, and Inferno. Who doesn't love a girl with a proper appreciation for the classics? Not only does Maddie seem to have a sophisticated taste in literature, but also in career aspirations. From the age of 6, Maddie started making her plans to follow in Daddy's footsteps. One day, she would be known as Dr. Maddie *no last name*, and she would figure out what makes people tick. (There was also a phase where she wanted to be a veterinarian. That came to an end when she discovered she would have to operate on animals and occasionally have to put them down.)
Apparently, the dream still holds true to this day. When asked where she saw herself in 10 years, she declared, "Riding unicorns in Guadeloupe," before changing her answer to "working as a neurologist." But what do future neurologists look like?
Physical Description (in her own words): 5'6. Shoulder length brown hair, brown eyes (big, cow eyes, as Simone calls them), wearing a neutral, cool colored tank top that is layered down the front, with alternating layers of lace and floral, faded, light blue jean shorts, and brown, random flip flops. Her favorite feature being her big, brown "cow" eyes.
Things that make Maddie smile really big: Cheesy jokes (hearing them, not telling them), jazz (the music, not the dance), and Europe, especially Paris and Amsterdam.
This lucky duck is quite the globe trotter. Despite the fact that the advantages of being an only child include regular outings to the theater, and getting to take frequent trips to Europe with her parents, Maddie insists that she is not spoiled. After all, with no siblings to share the labor, the burden of the household chores all fall upon her shoulders. As further proof of her being unspoiled, she offers, "Mom says 'No' to everything." Well, clearly, Mom can't have said "no" to absolutely EVERTHING, since she obviously said "yes" to the blind double-date her friend's husband set up for her with his professor. Just to clarify, he was not much older. And she must not have been too weirded out, because she married him, and had a beautiful, cow-eyed daughter.
Love? "No, maybe crushes," she says. Her ideal is a guy with a good sense of humor, and who is not afraid to do fun, spontaneous stuff. So if you know any single sky divers with an aptitude for telling cheesy jokes, give Maddie a call :)
First, to what else could I be referring by "the good kind"but the one and only DOUBLE STUFFED! Today, it was my great fortune to make the acquaintances of not one, but TWO delightful young ladies. (Technically two and a half, since younger sister, Cameron, walked in on the scene halfway through.)
Second, one of the young ladies, to my great surprise, turned out to be one of the most unique blends of vanilla and chocolate I have ever seen. (Explanation to come at a later time.)
This entry will be posted in two parts because a) we are dealing with 2 equally unique individuals and b) I can't seem to get anything written when my good friend, Aidan, decides to be distracting. So here goes.
I'm walking down the aisle of Barnes and Noble, when the tinkling of laughter catches my ear, and I stop in my tracks. Nothing can pique my interest like the sound of fun, so naturally, I have to investigate. What I find are two heads together, sharing a moment of mirth over something, I assume, is being read by one or both of the young ladies. There sit Maddie and Simone, BFF's since the 2nd grade, delighting in their common love for literature. Much like Shannon and I, when we were also bright-eyed 15 year olds, with the luxury of getting lost in our novels for hours at a time.
This time, I am able to get a good look at the book titles. Maddie's selection includes Wuthering Heights, Dracula, and Inferno. Who doesn't love a girl with a proper appreciation for the classics? Not only does Maddie seem to have a sophisticated taste in literature, but also in career aspirations. From the age of 6, Maddie started making her plans to follow in Daddy's footsteps. One day, she would be known as Dr. Maddie *no last name*, and she would figure out what makes people tick. (There was also a phase where she wanted to be a veterinarian. That came to an end when she discovered she would have to operate on animals and occasionally have to put them down.)
Apparently, the dream still holds true to this day. When asked where she saw herself in 10 years, she declared, "Riding unicorns in Guadeloupe," before changing her answer to "working as a neurologist." But what do future neurologists look like?
Physical Description (in her own words): 5'6. Shoulder length brown hair, brown eyes (big, cow eyes, as Simone calls them), wearing a neutral, cool colored tank top that is layered down the front, with alternating layers of lace and floral, faded, light blue jean shorts, and brown, random flip flops. Her favorite feature being her big, brown "cow" eyes.
Things that make Maddie smile really big: Cheesy jokes (hearing them, not telling them), jazz (the music, not the dance), and Europe, especially Paris and Amsterdam.
This lucky duck is quite the globe trotter. Despite the fact that the advantages of being an only child include regular outings to the theater, and getting to take frequent trips to Europe with her parents, Maddie insists that she is not spoiled. After all, with no siblings to share the labor, the burden of the household chores all fall upon her shoulders. As further proof of her being unspoiled, she offers, "Mom says 'No' to everything." Well, clearly, Mom can't have said "no" to absolutely EVERTHING, since she obviously said "yes" to the blind double-date her friend's husband set up for her with his professor. Just to clarify, he was not much older. And she must not have been too weirded out, because she married him, and had a beautiful, cow-eyed daughter.
Love? "No, maybe crushes," she says. Her ideal is a guy with a good sense of humor, and who is not afraid to do fun, spontaneous stuff. So if you know any single sky divers with an aptitude for telling cheesy jokes, give Maddie a call :)
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