It's Important To Get Off On The Right Foot

I was checking out the news at Yahoo and couldn't help but notice the advertising.

Yes, I remembered my first day at Park College as though it were yesterday. I'd never seen so many beautiful women in one place, ripe for the plucking.

My parents were out of town on a trip planned before we knew when I'd be able to move into the dorm.

So there I was with my buddy Doc, a pharmacology student at Duquesne, getting the lay of the land before we started unpacking the car.

The first thing I did at Park was to shoot a few games of pinball in the snack bar. I won the best of five so we were off to find the nearest bar, and Doc was buying.

A few pitchers of Iron City Beer later it was time to walk back to school and move in. He bought a couple six packs for me to take back to the room; we figured they wouldn't be around long enough to worry about getting warm.

We got off the elevator, each of us with an open bottle, started down the hall and then, we heard it...

Candy came from out on the Island
In the back room she was everybody's darlin',
But she never lost her head
Even when she was givin' head,
She says, Hey babe, take a walk on the wild side
said, Hey babe, take a walk on the wild side,
And the colored girls go ---
Doo, do doo, do doo, do do do...

Yes, Lou Reed was booming out my new dorm room and I was ready to rock.

Park was my roommate's fifth college, so he knew to come early to pick the bed, desk and closet that he wanted. Better yet, he bought a refrigerator and it was fully stocked with booze!!

The second day at Park kicked off with me waking up in the bed of a ballerina. Yes indeed, there was ripe fruit on the low branches and I had a voracious appetite.

We had a delicious breakfast. Then, went to the cafeteria.

As it turned out this that would set the tone for what turned out to be a interesting trek through the world of academia.

Sweet Treats With A Gonzo Twist

Have you checked out personalized m&m's?

Yes, there's another product on the market we can make our own; because companies know how much we enjoy celebrating our vanity. I find these products fun and challenging; only to see how I can make them work here.

After adding a Gonzo touch I went to work on something I could, and did, order for TheSpecialOne. Something hot enough to make the m&m's melt in your hand.

Those Were The Days My Friend

Photograph by Kilroy_60
Watching John Mellencamp get inducted in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame got me to thinking about Weever.

If Weever ever could have been a rock and roller he would have come out of the same cracked mold that produced Mellencamp. As it turned out, the closest he came was putting together a backup band when I played Elwood Blues to Biff's Joliet Jake to win a talent show put on for charity.

Amazing what Jack Daniels, a handful of quaaludes and an ounce of Panama Red can get you to do.

We hatched that plan one day when we were taking a bus from downtown Pittsburgh to Beaver Falls to pick up Weever's car. From there it was four days on the road hitting spots in Morgantown, West Virgina, Winchester, Virginia, Frederick, Maryland, Waynesburg, Pennsylvania.

When you're young, have what seems like too much money in your pocket, are horny and can get behind the wheel of a hot car what else is there to say? Sex, drugs and rock 'n' roll ruled the weekend! With an added kick in the ass from a jug of West Virginia white lightning!!

...Funny, eh, some things don't change.

Leap Day 2008 aka My Birthday

Photograph by Kilroy_60

Yes, the rumors are true. Today is my birthday. Join in the movement to get Leap Day added to calendars!

I was pleased to have such a great sunset tonight. This will be a memorable photograph for me.

A few interesting facts about leap year babies...

• there's one per every 1,461 people
• there are 684 per million people
• there are about 200,000 in the United States
• there about about 4 million in the world
• 0.0684% of the world population is made up of Leapers

I'm not registered with The Honor Society of Leap Year Day Babies but, I think it's entertaining.

There's no shortage of articles explaining Leap Year. Leap Day is a colorful day with an interesting history - thanks to Julius Cesar!

• The Julian Calendar explained
• Time and Date.com
• Leap Year Traditions at About.com
• Leap Year/Leap Day

I'm posting while TheSpecialOne is napping. Soon it will be time to wake her for a shower, then "dessert".

February 29th, Yes, My Birthday!

Photograph by Kilroy_60
The word on the street is that I have a surprise coming for my birthday.

I expect TheSpecialOne to be here in about an hour. She was rather playful when she phoned, right about the time I finished my last post.

She made a point of saying she hoped I enjoyed my appetizer, and that she intended on serving a full meal.

Last night I celebrated with TheRedhead and GiGi. I'd planned to have drinks with one and dinner with the other. As it turned out drinks with GiGi ran long and TheRedhead came early for {our late} dinner. Seeing how well the two of them got along was a treat.

This morning GiGi had to go to rehearsal after we had a good warm up; I went to breakfast with TheRedhead.

Happy Birthday To Me!

Roll Another Number For The Road

Photograph by Kilroy_60

In advance of the Blogospherian Picnic I've updated my profile. Whatever platform you use for blogging, including StumbleUpon, this carnival is open to you.



I think, above all, the Interests section is most improved, and reflective.

What I found most difficult was making selections for Favorite Books. I wanted to give a good overview of what I have in my library, conveying the sense of my character, but not focus on the exhaustive reading I do for work.

On a similar note, I have a fairly extensive list of Favorite Movies. I believe it conveys well what I like. There wouldn't be a problem doubling this list, which gets to be a problem.

Food good or ill the updated edition is live.

Both Romance And Lust Have Their Place; Don't Forget Either

Photograph by Kilroy_60

Foreplay is defined as, sexual stimulation preceding intercourse. An accurate definition, indeed, but not enough illustration to be clearly understood or helpful.

A critical thing to remember is that it's the brain which is the most powerful sexual organ.

More than anything, what drives TheSpecialOne wild is when I send her love letters. She is, in fact, the only one for whom I put pen to paper. {If you need help with this, check out the linked page.}

The greatest failure is focusing on sex and forgetting the importance of romantic ideas. The best foreplay starts long before the first touch. It's best to start early and move at a pace that allows a tsunami of pleasure to wash over you.

On the other end of the spectrum, fanning the flame of lust is something that shouldn't be ignored.

I recently sent this email to TheSpecialOne:

Thinking of spending the day with you tomorrow...

We talk, and laugh...enjoying each others company...both wanting to please the other.

As we eat...we linger...engaging in lively conversation at times...and other times, not talking at all...both, thoughtful, and wanting.

You notice my looking at you, in that special way, knowing that I love you...and want to make love to you...me knowing, you feel the same.

Neither can help but touch the other...something simple, the brush of a hand.

I love you. I want you.

Call me.

That's How I Roll

"Dear Mr. Hefner:
We all love our legends, and far be it from The National Observer to try to rob Hunter S. Thompson of his (The Playboy Interview, November, 1974). As a fascinating figure flitting about on the periphery of journalism, Hunter has a certain value as long a he is not taken too seriously."

- Roscoe B. Born, Vice Editor
The National Observer {page 596-597}

Photograph by Kilroy_60

This month's full moon is a special one for me. One reason, it comes about a week before my birthday, 29 February.

I wish I could say this is last nights eclipse. {Check out the great shot I got of the eclipse last night! Couldn't help myself.}

Truthfully, I didn't even see it. TheSpecialOne and I were easing into my birthday bash; drinking mimosas and eating chocolate covered strawberries. That was a good warm up for the gram of Columbian flake I had before bed. {It was after that I had TheSpecialOne.}

What was I talking about?

Oh yes, the moon. I got this shot of the moon two nights ago when there was a thin layer of low clouds.

The English name of the February full moon is the Wolf Moon. In Native American culture it's known as the Snow, or Hunger, moon.

Another interesting thing, based on the Farmer's Almanac definition {the third full moon in a season of four full moons}, it's a blue moon.

Kilroy_60's Online MAKE AMERICA PURPLE Store

Have you been to my new online MAKE AMERICA PURPLE store?

The site, of course, includes my mascot...


In case you forgot how this all started...

{wavey screen effect}

It was 4 July, 2006 when I wrote:

The Viewpoint of One...Twisted, Perhaps, But A Viewpoint Nonetheless...

Red States and Blue States {Be sure to put the Red before the Blue} have become a mainstay of the American lexicon. Boil everything down and that is the root of the problem in that we should be Purple.

Not that everyone should share the same beliefs. But it needs to be about US not We and Them --- or We and Them. People are flocking to the far ends of the spectrum, not only abandoning the middle but seeking to ignore {at best} or deny {at worst} the existence of the other. One thing for sure, the agenda of whichever group you do not belong is likely being dismissed. There is no meaningful dialogue, no debate, no exchange of ideas. Let alone any effort to find common ground.

Further, we seem to have lost sight of a basic principle on which this nation was founded. While the person {man thus far} who lives in the White House is said to be the most powerful in the world we should not forget it is because he works for US --- ALL OF US --- Red and Blue and Blue and Red. And the people who work in that building with the big dome at the other end of Pennsylvania Avenue {the ones who are empowered to choose the wage they will be paid} are charged with representing us.

Who is the "us" that is being represented in Washington, D.C. and {insert the name of your state's capital city}? It's the fanatics at the farthest ends of the spectrum that are setting the agenda and creating the environment in which we are expected to survive. The majority of us are silent in terms of what counts.

You (whomever you may happen to be} are more likely to have voted for the winner of American Idol than for the people who are charged with representing you in our government(s = local state and federal). You are most likely also not one of the people making telephone calls, sending emails, transmitting faxes or writing letters to the people responsible for creating policy and making law.

If you are happy with the way things are then you likely needn't do anything. {All indication are there are very few of us who are happy with the way things are.} Continue as you are and there will be no improvement. Although things could get worse.

Starting tomorrow declare REAL independence. Stop being part of the silent majority.

Engage in conversations about political matters with people you know and people you don't know. Don't have fear to express what you think or to stand up for what you feel. Don't forget that communication means listening not just talking and hearing. Listening and considering the value of information that is offered to you. It's not about being right or wrong; it's about finding what is best for the country as a whole. Not for whatever particular niche to which you belong.

Write an email, make a telephone call, fax, dare I say write a letter to someone who is representing you at the local state or national level each week. As this becomes a habit perhaps you'll contact one at each level on a weekly basis. You can make contact to support what that person is doing, to object to what they are dong or to suggest an adjustment in their stance to better reflect what is better for your community or your state or your country.

Don't be silent. Don't whine or bitch to people who don't have the power to do anything about the situation with no follow-up. Do encourage people {those who agree with you and those who don't} to write that email, make that call or send that letter.

One last thing. Whether you're happy or unhappy with the way things are do one thing ----------------------------VOTE. {Talk about twisted ideas. I'll call tomorrow to look into mental health treatment}

Can you believe it, from that humble beginning...MY OWN ONLINE STORE!

Seriously, yes I know what would be a rarity, I was amazed when I saw that AARP had gone with my Make America Purple theme when it put together DividedWeFall.org.

If I buy gifts for you, let me know if there's anything in the catalog you especially like. hint

Another Kilroy_60 Email Interview

I did the following email interview with GB from tidings of comfort & joy {today}...

What dreams did/do you have for your life and how do you go about accomplishing them?

---(-)-> What? Have as much fun as will possibly fit in to one life; do meaningful work; make a difference.

How? Show the people who are important they are loved; give more than I receive; go balls to the wall.

What do you find is/are the most important navigation tool(s) for living life?

---(-)-> Passion, curiosity, inspiration, determination, the ability to communicate well and an unending appetite for pleasure.

You strike me as a person who is not inclined to suffer fools. Were you always an outspoken person and if not, what caused you to become so?

---(-)-> Yes, I was always outspoken.

I've heard various explanations of the origins of Kilroy. What's your take and why do you use this alias?

---(-)-> Kilroy_60 is Raoul Duke.

How is it that you came to be influenced by Hunter S. Thompson?

---(-)-> http://kilroythegonzopapers.blogspot.com/2005/11/path-you-seek-leads-to-woody-creek.html

In my search for all things HST, I've come across writings/videos that portray him as little more than a babbling crazy person. What book/movie would you recommend for those who want as accurate a reflection as possible of Hunter S. Thompson?

---(-)-> The books I would recommend are Fear and Loathing In America - The Brutal Odyssey of an Outlaw Journalist 1968-1976 and The Joke's Over by Ralph Steadman.

What brings you comfort and joy?

---(-)-> TheSpecialOne.

Thanks, GB, for your thoughtful questions. It's been a pleasure meeting you.

Rock & Roll Never Forgets - the Life In Song(s) meme

"A day without fun is a day that eats shit."
- Hunter S. Thompson

Photograph by Kilroy_60

Slow down, you move too fast
You got to make the morning last.
Just kicking down the cobble stones.
Looking for fun and feelin' groovy.
{Simon and Garfunkel}

Everyday is a winding road
I get a little bit closer
Everyday is a faded sign
I get a little bit closer to feeling fine
{Sheryl Crow}

Gonna look you right in the face
Better get yourself together darlin'
Join the human race
How in the world you gonna see
Laughin' at fools like me
Who in the hell d'you think you are
A super star
Well, right you are

Well we all shine on
Like the moon and the stars and the sun
Well we all shine on
Ev'ryone come on

Instant Karma's gonna get you
Gonna knock you off your feet
Better recognize your brothers
Ev'ryone you meet
Why in the world are we here
Surely not to live in pain and fear
Why on earth are you there
When you're ev'rywhere
Come and get your share
{John Lennon}

Time was once just a clock to me
And life was just a book a biography
Success was something you just had to be
And I would spend myself unknowingly

And you know that I could have me a million more friends
And all I’d have to lose is my point of view
But I had no idea what a good time would cost
Till last night when I sat and talked with you.
{John Prine}

You can run but you cannot hide
This is widely known
And what you plan to do with your foolish pride
When you`re all by yourself alone
Once you tell somebody the way that you feel
You can feel it beginning to ease
I think it`s true what they say about the squeaky wheel
Always getting the grease.
{James Taylor}

What good is sittin' alone in your room
Come hear the music play, yes
Life is a cabaret old chum
Come to the cabaret

Put down that knittin', the book and the broom
Time for a holiday, yes
Life is a cabaret old chum
So come to the cabaret

Come taste the wine, come hear that band
Yes, it's time for celebratin'
Right this way, your table's waitin'
{Louis Armstrong}

You're thinking that you've got me trained
I'm aware of that
But when you need your outlook changed
Baby, I'm the cat

Baby, I'm allowed to be late when I'm coming home
You know I'll be there when I want to
And you let me roam
You think you've got me figured out
I don't know about that
But when you want to twist and shout
Baby, I'm the cat
{Jackson Browne}

I love this bar
It's my kind of place
Just walkin' through the front door
Puts a big smile on my face
It ain't too far, come as you are
Hmm, hmm, hmm I love this bar
{Toby Keith}

Sky cleared up, day turned to bright
Closing both eyes now the head filled with light
Hard to remember what a state I was in
Instant amnesia
Yang to the Yin.

All I got to do is to love you
All I got to be is, be happy
All it's got to take is some warmth to make it
Blow Away, Blow Away, Blow Away.

Wind blew in, cloud was dispersed
Rainbows appearing, the pressures were burst
Breezes a-singing, now feeling good
The moment had passed
Like I knew that it should.
{George Harrison}

Think I'll
roll another number
for the road,
I feel able to get under any load.
Though my feet
aren't on the ground,
I been standin' on the sound
Of some open-hearted people
goin' down.
{Neil Young}

Photograph by Kilroy_60

the Life In Song(s) meme...*

---(-)-> Illustrate your life, in song(s)
---(-)-> Portions of 10 songs
---(-)-> Use no song in its entirety
---(-)-> Use no artist more than once
---(-)-> Tag 5 people

I'm tagging: Naomi, Sheila, Kuanyin, GrizzBabe, Anja Merret

*Originated by Anthony at The Lives And Times...

A Moment Of Inspiration

Photograph by Kilroy_60

The true value of blogging comes from connecting with other blogospherians. {heretofore known as bloggers} Comments like these, received over the past year, make this time well spent...

Steve commented, "I got a kick out of this one... here at my workplace we have theabsentmindedprofessor, ruhroh, stillinsaigon, toomeantodie, southparkchef. I don't know what they call me.

My guess is that there a lot of "howdidthingsgosowrong" out there.

I'd like to see the follow up to this "adventure"." on Ice Milk Dairy

honkeie2 commented, "Have I ever mentioned-----
I blog at work for hours on end without shame." on Have I Ever Mentioned?

Jam commented, "Beautiful. Though I wonder why the woman you speak of would feel pressured to stop taking sunset photographs. I hope she never stops.

I have hundreds of sunset photos and will contiue until I die.

Your shots here are gorgeous and the sky looks dramatic with the clouds like that.

I'm visiting via the photography carnival." on My Most Recent Sunset Safari

honkeie2 commented, "Imagine if they left the book 'World Domination for Dummies' instead of that book lol." on I Violate FAA Regulations Without Ever Leaving My Chair

Naomi commented, "Good interview. It was interesting to read how your blog came about." on Blog Village's Newest Featured Villager

RomanceWriter commented, "Awesome interview!" on Blog Village's Newest Featured Villager

shakir hasnain commented, "i love the way it ends... wish life could end like that too" on Finding My Rhyme In Time

Naomi commented, "Great poem Kilroy. I think most of us can identify with it. Life is so fast moving with so much going on. I'm visiting from the Gonzo poetry carnival." on A Kilroy Rhyme, Things Rattling Around In My Head

GrizzBabe commented, "Sigh. A week off for debauchery sounds really nice." on This, That And The Other

Sheila commented, "On the subject of ice cream: I looked longingly at the Fried Ice Cream Publix ice cream the other day and sadly opted for the no-sugar Blue Bell." on I Have My Own Ice Cream!

Dirty Butter commented, "It stopped for me on the Blue Button. Gee, that was a great way to spend a few moments. And exactly what does that say about me, I wonder????" on Do You Dare Take On The Challenge?

honkeie2 commented, "Water does have a taste but tap water is cheaper. I buy the bottled water that is on sale and keep refilling the bottle for a week before replacing it. 69cents sure can go along way if you know how ;)

And by the way, I usually drink about 4.5 liters a day." on Adventures In Photography

honkeie2 commented, "When bored at a doctors office once I was playing with a pay phone and dialed 1800- USA-DICK. As it turned out it was a number for Monotal dealers. I am not sure what it was but it was not a gay porn hot line lol" on 1-800-PayDebt

jbwritergirl commented, "Crazy enough, I think I have more friends in the blogosphere than I do in real life.

Life is just quirky I guess.

Dr. J" on It Is What It Is

Queen (previous moniker of Hey Lady) commented, "I like the word "syzygy". And funny - I saw the color blobs and went "well, THAT's Jackson Pollack-y" and hello, it was.

Anyway, Happy Peep Day." on The Power In The Eye Of The Beholder

shakir hasnain commented, "'abandon ' is up there. the rest convey the poetic element but ' abandon ' is something else... brilliant.

I can go into an interpretation but it would demean the beauty of the whitely shadowed A....

It would be interesting to see your ideas executed in a non pollocky form , or music, or indirect versification or...

great work.." on The Power In The Eye Of The Beholder

Annelisa commented, "Mmmm, I know about this one - ever since my Anti-virus/ anti-spam went up the creek a few weeks ago, my mailbox has filled to overflowing, and quite frankly is beyond me to rifle through! :-(

Funny, I don't remember spam from a tin being so goddamn annoying!" on Delete... Delete... Delete... Delete... Delete... x201

jbwritergirl commented, "have to agree with your special one on the sleeping alone after phone sex. It's usually the only time we can just zone out without all the cuddling afterwards. Kind of like men, slam bam thank you mam, lol!

Hubby will be on the east coast all week so I should be able to catch up on my sleep as well.

DR. J" on Scene Of A Woman...On A Man

honkeie2 commented, "Everyone needs an escape from reality. Too much of that bad medicine and your mind will defenatley go to the wolves." on Life, It Comes And It Goes

Dirty Butter commented, "Laughter and fun should be part of every day! I tried playing with the pollock site, but couldn't figure out how to change colors, etc. Dummy me." on Life, It Comes And It Goes

Lisa Steptoe commented, "You've got me addicted to making my own splatter art - DAMIT. I need to go to work. Having fun." on Life, It Comes And It Goes

Marion commented, "Kilroy, I have always found your posts informative, well-written and creative. I will admit, though, that I don't often comment on pay-per-post posts; I do read them however.

Keep writing!" on Blogging Along... Singing A Song... Playing On The Short Side Until Things Go Long...

Steve commented, "I like what the Wandering author has said. I don't know or care much about page rank, but i suppose it musthaver some import for some projeects I know nuthin' about.

At the risk of being rude i will say 'ITS GREAT TO HAVE YOU BACK, KILROY, YOU LOOK LIKE HELL!!!'" on Blogging Along... Singing A Song... Playing On The Short Side Until Things Go Long...

Very Bad Cat commented, "Wahoo! It's nice to be noticed. I love your blog. Better living through chemicals- isn't that the truth! Sorry I couldn't get back to you earlier- I was buried under homework.

I've added a link to "fear and loathing" on my blog. Thanks again for the recognition!" on A Hitchhiker's Guide To The Blogosphere - The Latest And Greatest

Kuanyin commented, "I've always loved the name Kilroy ever since I saw it scrawled all over weird places (you get around!), and Hunter Thompson--coooool dude! I'd be honored to link with ya, and I've never hosted a Gonzo festival...can you email me with instructions and details so I know more about hosting responsibilities! Mahalo for the links!" on A Hitchhiker's Guide To The Blogosphere - The Latest And Greatest

Rain commented, "Thank you so much for stopping by my site and taking the time to offer words of encouragement.

I would like to exchange links with you, thanks." on A Hitchhiker's Guide To The Blogosphere - The Latest And Greatest

Hey Lady commented, "I think I hate you for bringing up Creme Brulee.

Now I want it.

And god, I am so SICK of Bush. What does it friggin take to get an impeachment around here? Cigars?

I miss the days of presidents who couldn't keep it in their pants as opposed to starting meaningless wars.

Make love, not war, indeed." on What A Day For A Daydream Oo La La

RomanceWriter commented, "LOL at your answer for 3." on TAGGED by Blog~Blond

Parlancheq commented, "The Jackson Pollock website was cool. Though what does it say about his work when anyone can create 'masterpieces' similar to his?" on For Your Consideration

GrizzBabe commented, "I LOVE that bedroom! The Special One has quite the eye for beauty. Or maybe Kilroy is the one with the eye. ;)" on A Photo Shoot with TheSpecialOne

Naomi commented, "Great photos. You have a lovely home. It's always interesting to see how houses are furnished in other parts of the world." on A Photo Shoot with TheSpecialOne

honkeie2 commented, "I will have to try later, my work cock-blocker says its a game site. Damn big borther lol" on Commercial Break

Sheila commented, "A little late for this comment and I can't believe no one else posted one before mine, but even though I generally don't like to speak ill of the dead, I have to agree with what you say. Maybe one day we Americans will get over the fact that everyone spouting the name of Jesus Christ is not honorable or good. These modern day hucksters are no better than the old snake oil salesmen.

I missed a lot while in the moving process and it's fun to start to catch up on the blog reading." on If There's Any Justice Jerry Falwell Is Burning In Hell

GrizzBabe commented, "I miss the tree. :( But, like you said, it's a blank canvas now." on The Changing Face Of The Writer's Refuge

Marion commented, "I miss the tree, too, but I know how difficult it is to garden under trees, with their roots taking up most of the water.

It's a wonderful refuge, Kilroy!" on The Changing Face Of The Writer's Refuge

honkeie2 commented, "hahaha that last one should have been followed with the camera rolling over and a whole lote of cursing hahaa." on Free Fallin' In The Writer's Refuge...Or Is That Tree Fallin'

GrizzBabe commented, "The Writer's Refuge is coming along very nicely!" on The Changing Face Of The Writer's Refuge

Lavender Chick commented on, "Hi there! First of all, can't wait to hear the results of the experiment. Like you, I realize the need to blog about and comment frequently - but, I just get all puckered up inside when I feel like I'm conforming with the comment stuff...

Secondly, I read your profile and have much in common with you, except I would rather savor a cold Dos XX - it's a Tex-Mex thing, and I find a hot bath with no interruptions more joyous than golf. Other than that, I think we could hang pretty good together! George Carlin, the Pope, et.al...

Thanks for stopping by today. I'm going to keep checking in with you!" on Taking Care Of Business... And Working Overtime!

Sheila commented, "Bill may have screwed the intern but these two guys have done it the country." on George W. Bush and Dick Cheney Are A National Disgrace For America

Steve commented, "Yeah, and now Libby doesn't do a day! They are really pissin' me off Kilroy." on George W. Bush and Dick Cheney Are A National Disgrace For America

Lavender Chick commented, "Nice Hummingbird photo! I kind of have a thing for hummingbirds ..." on Welcome Friends, Old And New

Marion commented, "Lovely photos, Kilroy! I love the yellow flower with that blurred background." on Welcome Friends, Old And New

GrizzBabe commented, "I wish I had the time, the energy and the green thumb to produce something that beautiful!" on A Moment In The Garden

Brad commented, "I always worry about leaving comments, for fear that they're unwanted...even by my blogosphere friends.

But I know I love getting noticed, so I guess I panic for nothing.

This is why I drink." on Taking Care Of Business... And Working Overtime!

The Wandering Author commented, "Now, if you could find a way to market those Gonzo Puffs without running afoul of the law, I'd say you'd find yourself with more comments than you could handle?

I do have one question, though. If a cereal causes the munchies, can it also be used to satisfy them? :D" on Taking Care Of Business... And Working Overtime!

Lavender Chick commented, "The Decider was actually a fairly decent governor. I voted for him for president the first time, but NOT the second time. He scared me.

Some people just make better drunks." on George W. Bush And Dick Cheney Are A National Disgrace For America

Brad commented, "I live a mere hour away...and I've never been. Time to reassess." on Join Me At The Seashore

Dirty Butter commented, "Oh My! Now I really DO want to go to the beach!! Thanks so much for sharing this post on our BLOG VILLAGE Recreation Carnival." on Join Me At The Seashore

Sank commented, "Happened across your blog this evening.. from Blog village. Love it, I think we'd get along pretty well.. I'm adding you to my link list you have a good thing going here." on A July Sunset

Dirty Butter commented, "Good go stop by again, old friend, and you have just the natural beauty I needed to see right now. Gorgeous!!" on One Last Look...

Sheila commented, "This is a cool test. I did it. My husband did it and then passed it along to his admin assistant. We all think it's pretty damn accurate. Thanks." on The Man In The Mirror

Naomi commented, "Sounds like the ideal retreat to shut yourself off from the rest of the world. The scenery looks great, especially the trees!" on Kidnapped...

Semiresponsive commented, "I'm new here so I haven't had the opportunity yet to tell you, you take absolutely beautiful photos." on Kidnapped...

Marion commented, "Kilroy, these photos are heavenly...I can feel the anticipation of a new day...beauty and excitement together!" on A Kilroy Sunrise

Jay Cam commented, "nice pictures! i doubt i could capture a squirrel in such a way as you did...let alone have it tie into my blog! congrats, i have to give you props on that." on Good Morning

Gewels commented, "Lucky girl!! I can see why she "begged" for butterfly photos. Nice shots." on Awash In A Tsunami Of Pleasure

Sheila commented, "I'm mad. I'm sad. What a foolish waste of lives, time and money that could have been used to help improve something! Have we left Iraq better off? Not in my opinion." on The Legacy of George W. Bush and Dick Cheney - Section 60, Arlington National Cemetery

Sheila commented, "This put a real face on the tragedy of that day better than a boatload of country patriotic songs. I am sad the world lost heroes like these." on Celebrating The Spirit Of Joseph Vincent Vigiano - September 11 - 2,996 Tribute

Dirty Butter commented, "You outdid yourself with this one, Kilroy. Very creative!! And thanks for including a couple of my blogs, while you were at it." on A Special Edition Gonzo "Link Exchange" Carnival

Naomi commented, "Thanks for the mention Kilroy. I love this. It's great how you have weaved everything together! I'm just about to send you a post for your Carnival of Cities. Good luck with that! I'll put an announcement on my blog to help promote it." on A Special Edition Gonzo "Link Exchange" Carnival

Mountaingirl commented, "The volume (or lack) of traffic was something that I really questioned when I started my blog. It actually came down to did I want to blog, and if others joined me ok, OR was out to be popular and have a high traffic rate. I chose the first.

I celebrate every new person that stumbles across my blog but even if I get no comments, I shall still blog on :-)" on 10,001

Marion commented, "The first thing I saw when I looked at your photo was the Tyrannosaurus Rex...great photo!" on To End The Workweek...A Kilroy Sunset

Marion commented, "Kilroy, this is an amazing shot, absolutely stupendous. It must have been a very special night for you!" on In This Season Of Chrishanukwanztivus...

Isabella Mori commented, "what a great idea! i think i'll try that, too. it's almost like blog tarot!"
on A {Blogosphere} Year In Review

Jeremy Wilcox commented, "I've never smoked weed in my life (I know, a real sqaure) and don't plan on it, but I am 100% in favor of the legalization of marijuana.

Critics of marijuana says it's a harmful, addictive drug. Well so is alcohol and going out and getting drunk is considered an everyday 'unwinding' ritual for millions of Americans. Politicians, etc, use drinking as a socializing event. Huge bullshit hypocrisy.

Stoned people are also a lot more interesting than drunk people.

Furthermore, anyone who wants to smoke weed now... does. The law ain't stopping no one. All the law is waste police resources and jail space for nickel and dime (bag) 'criminals'.

Moreover, once marijuana is legalized, it will be a boon for American farmers, who could use the extra business. The government can also tax, like cigarettes, adding much needed $$ to the federal coffers. And, of course, age restrictions can be put in place like on alcohol and this can be better enforced. Also, the money spent on weed will go to American businesses instead of foreign thugs and mercernaries.

It's really a commonsense idea.

And that's why it won't happen in our lifetime." on Making The United States of America's National Debt A Long Forgotten Memory

Leanderthal, Lighthouse Keeper commented, "Kilroy, I'm surprised to be the first to leave a comment on this post. In any case I completely support your assessment of Bush. Liar. As E.J. Dionne wrote recently lies don't bother this crowd much. The secrecy is what is startling: Energy Task Force notes protected by the Supremes. I'm afraid they think that, since they have the court packed, they can get away with most anything, such as contempt of Congress charges over refusal to provide documents.

I hope you will read Chris Hedges piece on TruthDigg. It's called Declaring Independence from Israel. If only half of what he wrote is accurate it's pretty frightening.
I hope you will respond to some of the questons I posed a few days ago. They were in an email. I'll use the comment feature going forward.

Instruct me on how to do the exchange thing. I'm an old English Major and over my head in this stuff.

Oh, I love the Kilroy pose of the Yellow Lab. Mine was named Sunshine, AKA Platinum Plus." on The President of The United States Is A Liar

What better way to end this post?

An update on...

The Experiment
1:19 PM, 13 January, 2008
Given 266/Received 234

A Shout-Out To Visitor Number 11,111

I want to send a shout-out to my friend, or the unwitting victim who stumbled in here inadvertently, who came from Modesto, California to chalk up visit number 11,111 since I installed Site Meter.


I'd estimate the odds incalculable that visit number 11,111 would come on December 11th. It could only have been more extraordinary coming one month earlier.

Whether you're one of my blogging friends, an intentional first time visitor or you fell in a rabbit hole and landed here, I welcome you all the same.

I'd encourage my friends to write a comment, letting me know you've been here. Making my way back to visit comes easier knowing you're keeping an eye on me.

If this is the first time you've visited, I'll point you to my list of "Best of..." posts in the sidebar. {Note to Self, scroll back to May 19th and start updating this list}

If you enjoy finding comments in your blog, take some time, read and comment here. I'm inclined to do the same. Good, bad or indifferent, more likely than not they'll get published. If not, you'll hear from me and know why.

Should you wish to do a link exchange send me an email and I'll be happy to have a look.


All in all, things have been great in this little corner of the blogosphere.

Traffic notwithstanding, as this will never be a high traffic site, year two of The Gonzo Papers was a whole lot more fun than the first.

About a month in, year three has been even better! I'm looking forward to see what 2008 has to offer.

Cheers!

An update on...

The Experiment
12:24 AM, 16 December
Given 244/Received 211

Finally, I'm going mobile!

It's been impossible finding a mobile device to adequately fulfill my needs. I've gone back and forth so many times...do I get a high end cell, a blackberry or an iPhone?

Finally, I found exactly what I need! I have to send a big shout out to the National Rifle Association for all its help!!

This is not a Pay Per Post sponsored ad. 8-)

I've Found A New Hangout

Check it out. I found a new place to hang out. Here I am with my buddy, Homer, at Moe's Bar.

I thought things might turn ugly... I've used different ID's when I passed through Springfield before. As it turned out Homer and I closed the joint.

It's...Me(ez)

In the business...that's what we call, the big buzz

Kilroy's The Gonzo Papers...Getting Back To The Heart Of The Matter

It's time to get back to the heart and soul of The Gonzo Papers.

Hunter S. Thompson committed suicide on February 20, 2005. To be more exact The Good Doctor blew his brains out at Owl Farm.

I didn't forget. To be perfectly honest I've chosen to avoid writing about it. If that's a sign of weakness, a character flaw of one form or another I don't have a problem with it. What would be the use; that's life.

Those who are new to The Gonzo Papers, you may wonder what the hell this is all about. If you can hang on you can go on a wild roller coaster ride.

If you're an old friend of this blog, but not a devotee of The Good Doctor, a refresher course may be in order. Here's a start, the story on Thompson's suicide from The Washington Post.

If you have any expectation this is an attempt to copy Thompson, it's not. That's an effort not worth undertaking. It is doomed to failure from the start. Whether you're a fan of The Good Doctor or not is irrelevant. This is not a blog about Hunter S. Thompson.

Twisted? Perhaps. Worthwhile, it's your time and your decision. As for me, I'm pleased to meet people, to create meaningful relationships and to give a helping hand when and where I can. I'm not here to be anyone's whipping dog and I won't be doing anything to pander to an audience.

If your mission is to piss and moan about him or me, to be critical because he did the deed or because I do what I do...don't waste your time. For those of you with such a mindset I will say this ~ Look in the mirror and see where it is that you stand to make you superior to him, to me or to anyone else. I can assure you, superior you are not. So get a fucking grip and either change your attitude or move the fuck along.

I publish Pay Per Post ads in this blog. From December through April I did an experiment in megaposting. There was, more or less, one ad between each of "my" posts. They were written more often than not in the same spirit, with the same approach as the rest of the blog as much as possible. That experiment has now ended.

Pay Per Post ads continue to appear; they are never published in sequence.

Taking The Next Step...And Renovating My Sidebar

Read my VisualDNA™ Get your own VisualDNA™

Awhile back I switched over to the "new" Blogger. I really haven't done anything with it though. As I recall, vaguely, I had a bit of a buzz on when I logged in. I think I jumped into the switch accidentally. When all was said and done, it was done.

I've decided - totally sober this time 8-D - that it's time to take the next step. I'm going to dip into the big box of crayons and add some new color to my little corner of the Blogosphere.

I'm also going to have to clean up my sidebar. It's gotten completely out of hand. if you've spent much time reading this blog that won't surprise you. If this is your first time, welcome!

One of the adjustments I'll be making is posting the results of my VisualDNA Analysis. As much BS as I get in my Inbox, the tip to have a look at this turned out to be a good one. I'm not sure if it's because men are visual, but the result of picking one picture from a group in a number of categories produced a sum total that is largely accurate. Of course, some of the categories didn't have selections that are directly applicable, but they were close enough.

Blog Village's Newest Featured Villager

I was interviewed again; this time by Janey Loree from Blog Village. It appears in the Village News Featured Villager series.

Check it out...

Janey Loree: Who is Kilroy? Tell us more about Fear And Loathing - The Gonzo Papers!

Kilroy: Kilroy is an evolving character; an explorer, spiritualist, consultant, writer and photographer.

Fear And Loathing - The Gonzo Papers is meant to be a vehicle that pays tribute to the spirit of Hunter S. Thompson. In the Gonzo spirit, distinctions between the author and subject are blurred. There is a merging of fiction and nonfiction.

Fear And Loathing - The Gonzo Papers examines the human condition; that which lurks in the shadows is explored; questions are asked and a point of view is taken without apology.

It should be noted that the author accepts no responsibility for spontaneous anger, personal outrage, blurred vision, headaches or Post Traumatic Stress Disorder experienced by visitors.

One final point, I regularly publish my original photography. The photographs rarely have anything to do with the narrative. I do hope that people enjoy the images; or at least that they inspire thought.

Janey Loree: What prompted you to start blogging in the first place?

Kilroy: I spent a week at Cape Cod with TheSpecialOne. It was good for me to step away from having work be omnipresent. I had time to contemplate my life and consider the need to gain a greater sense of balance. Blogging was something about which I had knowledge; it was an opportunity that up to that point I did not pursue. Shortly after returning from the trip I decided it was time to begin.

Janey Loree: When do you do your blog reading?

Kilroy: I don't have a specific time that I do anything, other than filing my taxes by April 15th. Unless I file an extension. 8-D

Janey Loree: Where did you hear about BLOG VILLAGE?

Kilroy: Reviewing sites to include in my "A Hitchhiker's Guide To The Blogosphere" series, I am always finding different things posted in sidebars. I'm sure it was one of the ones I chose to investigate.

Janey Loree: Why did you name your blog "Fear And Loathsome – The Gonzo Papers"?

Kilroy: When you mention Hunter S. Thompson, invariably, the first thing people think of is his book "Fear And Loathing In Las Vegas". Fear And Loathing is a phrase The Good Doctor frequently used. My "first" blog Fear And Loathing In The Blogosphere was lost in some sort of inescapable Blogger archive hell. I used the name of one of his books when I recreated the original blog and moved forward.

Janey Loree: How often do you post and how many blogs do you maintain?

Kilroy: The first year I only posted about 100 times exactly. I was disappointed with that. It was, though, the best I could do given a certain circumstances.

Right after my blogiversary I started exploring Pay Per Post. I have published about 80 posts over the last month. About 40 of them are sponsored by Pay Per Post advertisers. It has worked out well in that it is virtually seamless with what I had already been writing.

Fear And Loathing - The Gonzo Papers is in the Pay Per Post Affiliate Program. If anyone is interested in testing the program, I would appreciate them signing on through my site, www.KilroyTheGonzoPapers.blogspot.com

Janey Loree: Which BLOG VILLAGER would you recommend for the next interview?

Kilroy: I referred a blogger to you; one who is a personal friend and a professional associate. So, it seems only logical I would refer you to The Lives And Times... of Anthony McCune.

To conclude, I'd like to thank you for your interest in Fear And Loathing - The Gonzo Papers.

One last thing I feel is important to say. I believe blogging is an excellent educational forum. It's not possible to learn, though, if your viewpoint is the only one you see. I am interested in what input other Blog Villagers have to offer. Whether it is in agreement or not; I'd like to encourage an exchange of ideas because it's helpful to us all.

Janey Loree: In the near future, you will be reading interviews by Kilroy. Not only does Kilroy have a way with words, he is proactive in the blogging arena. Drop by his blog to inquire about The Gonzo B$ Carnival.



Sift through his posts to enjoy all his photography, lithographs, and renderings and let him know that he needs to start another “Headline Naming Contest”…

If You're Feeling Froggy, Jump!

I made a note when I was checking out blogs for the next installment of A Hitchhiker's Guide To The Blogosphere. There was a "Year In Review Post" that suggested looking at the first post for each month and pulling out the first sentence.

It sounded interesting to me, especially being a curious sort, so here goes...

January:
During the leap second we had on Saturday, I decided one posting addressing a potpourri of subject matter would be the optimum approach for an update.

February:
On Saturday the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2006 will be announced.

March: I didn't post.

April:
As Hines Ward was on television saying he was going to Disney World, and taking The Bus, the telephone rang in my hotel room.

May:
It's another Tequila Sunrise! I've been making mine with Patron Anejo...

June:
One may wonder if NBC planned how Deal Or No Deal would roll out over time or if audience reaction caused the schedule to evolve.

July:
I like the adventure of visiting blogs based on the name as they roll by freshly updated at blogger.com.

August:
Since beginning this endeavor, I have avoided writing about work.

September:
Things I shook out of my head...

October:
There are times you have more questions than answers.

November:
At times, it only requires moving from one room to another to find relief from challenges at hand.

December:
I'm not sure if I have posted more than one black squirrel photograph previously.