This is the reconstructed maiden installment of Kev's Life Update, as best as it can be remembered. DeKalb and the rest of the midwest is quite different than the northeast, but then again, graduate school is a lot different than undergrad. Things have started both hectic and slowly, as there is much to do, but it seems much to do to get caught up with. Nevertheless, there are some great people that I have already met, and I am having some fun also amidst all the work in grad school. There are indeed parties, and I was told I had the "most daring costume" at the Halloween party. So that I can dispel any rumors that may (or may not) be circulating, I was wearing my black trenchcoat buttoned all the way down, white cotton gloves, a brown felt fedora, a silk tie, socks, and nothing else. Putting it all together, I was a reformed streaker. I thought it was pretty creative! In addition to classes and parties, I taught two intro psychology classes as my assistantship, having 42 and 55 students in them. I also started learning quickly my way around the kitchen, and at least _I_ don't seem to mind my cooking, and neither did any of my guests at my first after-thanksgiving-dinner held on the friday after thanksgiving! Through all of these great changes, I seem to be getting used to things. Well, except for that they call soda "pop" out here, and the common phrase "Come with?" is leaving its participle dangling, and a lollipop is called a sucker. But I won't worry too much about that (except for the beating that I have been threatened with if I ever use "pop" instead of soda in the northeast, thank you Chris T).
Well, last semester was a strange one (are there any that aren't?). It took some time to get adjusted, and it almost seemed like most of that semester was spent that way. But I did make some good friends and I feel great going into this semester. I ended up getting very good grades as well.
Winter break was AWESOME! A friend (thanks Melissa) in the
clinical program here (whose parents live in Staten Island, NY)
and I drove back on 17.DEC (Sun). We drove all day and she
dropped me off at Newark airport terminal A (which I am very
familiar with, after having flown all across the country last
year for interviews) that evening. So I went inside to get a
bite to eat and THE TACO BELL WAS CLOSED!! UGH! Right in
terminal A next to TCBY and it was CLOSED! Anyway, I found some food (don't worry- I PAID for it) then
took the bus through downtown Newark to the train station, then
the train station to Trenton station, where I was greeted at
12:13 that night (thank you Linda K). That night, and until
Friday afternoon, was spent at Trenton State College. I was
given food and places to sleep (thank you Chris T, Kathy F, Dara
M, Matt Z, and Dani M) and ended up MAKING money that week,
coming out ahead (and it was perfectly legal, kind of, right
Linda?). I ran into so many wonderful people, and I looked for
all of you that might have been there, though I didn't find
everyone. Sorry if I missed ya.
BOTH New Year's parties were great (thanks for the
invitations Chris T and M-Gray)! I forgot how much fun it was to
stay up until 5am! And if any of you are still unsure, I only
had HALF of the big bottle of Mad Dog. (well, okay, other drinks
too, but they weren't as poisonous as Mad Dog.)... I also FINALLY
got to see the Radio City Music Hall Christmas show (with free
tickets & transportation, no less)! If you haven't seen it yet,
I recommend it.
I got to see the most snow I had ever seen, when Jackson got
ROCKED with about two (insert colorful metaphor here) feet! We
then left (thanks again Melissa) on 10.JAN (Wed) before the other
possible dumping of snow came (which I heard never did?) and
arrived that night in DeKalb.
This semester promises to be a busy one, which has basically
been the case with me for the past several years. I again am
teaching two intro psych classes! But this year, instead of
having two full classes (55 students max), I have one with about
43 and the evening class with 11! Quite a switch! But I do
enjoy teaching. And it is interesting to see things from both a
student's and a teacher's perspective! My own classes seem very
interesting- some more than others, of course. Actually, some
MUCH more than others! I will probably also be seeing one client
in the psych clinic as part of my training! The weather here is
getting QUITE COLD! But I am holding up, as is my car (good
thing in both cases).
Remember, I too like getting email. AND especially phone
calls and postal mail (which I LOVE, even if your handwriting is
bad). With that I will close. Until next time.
In terms of school, in the spring I again taught 2 sections
of intro psych, the evening section having only 8 students! I
conducted a few intake sessions in the clinic, did well with
grades, and was awarded a graduate fellowship for 1996-1997. Due
to the fellowship, I only need to work 10 hours per week for
funding instead of 20, and I am doing research related to anxiety
disorders with one of our new clinical faculty, which may be what
I focus my thesis on. I managed to write a few articles for the
AIDS Encyclopedia and for APA Divisions (thank you for
collaborations).
The last day of spring semester, I met a woman, 27, who is
getting her Master's in December in Education for the Visually
Impaired (hi Steph S!). I then went to Chicago (finally) and
wandered around, ate at the original Pizzaria Uno (where deep
dish pizza started) and played on a $70,000 Baldwin grand piano.
The day I left for the east coast, I broke a toe on my left foot.
Don't ask me how, it is not much of a glamorous story, though you
can pretend I injured it saving a life or something!
Once in the east, I was able to see cities including inner
Trenton and Philadelphia. A bunch of us (hey Jeff V & Dani M &
Gail D!) drove down to Orlando from NJ to meet four others who
arrived by plane, those wimps! (hi Scott P & Kathy F & Kah S &
Chris T), going everywhere including EPCOT (where my friends made
me use a wheelchair for the day due to the toe, and I got good at
using it & had a great workout (arms, hands, fingers) and
educational experience), Pleasure Island, and Blizzard Beach;
went to Cocoa Beach, Florida to go in the ocean and visited the
2nd Ron Jon Surf Shop (the 1st is on LBI in NJ!); drove from
Orlando to Atlanta & had dinner (thanks Dani M) before driving
back to NJ (hi again Jeff V). Interestingly enough, I had deep
dish pizza in Orlando exactly 1 week after the one in Chicago.
Needless to say, the Chicago one was better!
I got to spend time with family near Baltimore and had fun
with a chainsaw (pruning trees, ok?) and went to several
graduation parties including one on the beach in Wildwood NJ, on
the coast guard reserve (hi Dawn M). I was in heaven when I
finally went to "my" beaches including Sea Girt, Belmar, and
Spring Lake, and almost drowned in Sea Girt, but managed to save
myself by dragging myself to shore holding on to the wooden
"jetties," cutting up both legs plenty. Now I understand why
they put these things there every few hundred meters or so. The
day before leaving the east coast, I also finally got to wander
around Manhattan, going to the UN Building, in a club in the
village, in the Empire State Building, the NYC Public Library,
and the music shops in midtown where I bought a harmonica.
Once back in DeKalb, I took 2 summer classes (and did well
with grades). I got my hair wrapped & beaded, went to Rockford &
found one good store there (The Peace Store) as I was exploring
inner city, visited friends in Madison (hi Marc & Michelle B!),
went to a CO river-beach west of Madison a couple of times, and
saw much of beautiful Wisconsin (as compared to ugly Illinois).
I moved down Normal Road (don't know what that signifies), got
the hair wrap chopped off (please take good care of it Katie O!)
for the fall semester, co-hosted the 1st party of the new
academic year (hi Todd H), and am already busy in the clinic with
intakes & therapy. Should be an interesting semester!
My new address and phone (and PLEASE check even if you think
yours is correct):
I hope to hear from EACH and EVERY one of you.
Halloween again was fun, going to two parties this year.
This time I believe was the most "abstract" costume of them all.
I dressed all in blue and painted my face blue and went as
Picasso's Blue Period! I went with Steph S (my girlfriend at the
time) to one of the parties; she was dressed as a Blue Crayon,
and so I simply told everyone that I was really a white ghost,
but Steph, replete in all her grand blue-ness, was all over me
(NO COMMENTS Chris T & Scott P & Kathy F), so I turned out to be
Picasso's Blue Period. ;-)
On my (limited!) personal life, my 2nd
After-Thanksgiving-Dinner-And-Caribbean-Vacation (well, not the
vacation thing) was a big success (it better have been after all
of the cooking I did for two days until the dinner on Sunday!).
I am also single again, after ending the 7-month relationship
(which turned out nicely (hi Steph S), with us remaining good
friends).
Once the semester ended, I took a train trip from Chicago
(thanks Bob W) to Trenton. I had never done a long train ride
before so I thought I would try it. Besides, the price was good
and I figured that since it was a 19-hour overnight ride, I would
have plenty of time to read some articles and novels (which I
did). There was little else to do (couldn't go outside for a
walk, or a game of tennis anyone?) so it worked well, and
furthermore, the seats were quite comfortable.
It was once again nice to see everyone at Trenton (though I
don't know if I will be able to do it this way again) and I thank
all of you who fed me & housed me (Gayle C and Kathy F and Suky P
and Kat E) and drove me (Katie O and Suky and Tristan C). The
New Year's Parties (thanks Heat D and Chris T, and I'll try not
to arrive at 11:40pm next time Chris) and all of the rest (thanks
Kat and Dip M and LisaBelle H) were great & it was enjoyable to
be back in the northeast.
Of course I went to Manhattan, partly to see Phantom of the
Opera. Since the agent & theater messed up, we didn't get to see
it (but thanks for the backstage tour LisaBelle H) but as
"consolation," I got 2 free tickets to see Victor/Victoria with
Julie Andrews that night (I'm glad you enjoyed Stinky J) which
was a great show, especially from 3rd row center! Finally went
into St. Patrick's Cathedral (Wow!) and into Central Park for the
first time in over a decade. After staying over (thanks Cuz) I
had a wonderful poppy bagel with cream cheese (thanks again Cuz)
at 8:30 in the morning (hey- its the little things right?!...
especially at 8:30 in the morning!) and went in the public
library and visited Albert Ellis's REBT clinic, before visiting a
friend for lunch in the Empire State Building (thanks Rosa-G and
for the free books too) before FINALLY heading home, and then
taking the next few days visiting friends in the Jackson area as
well as relatives. Didn't nearly drown at the beach this time
like last summer, which makes perfect sense since I didn't go to
the beach in the winter.
I made it back to Chicago and then to DeKalb (thanks again
Bob W), where I started up a week before classes set to get
research done. And I thought it (sorta) ended there.
Well... not quite. I went to visit a friend (hi Steph S) in
Illinois 6 hours south for the Martin Luther King
holiday-weekend. Well, I drove fine for the first 4 hours, but
instead of drowning in the ocean like last summer, I had a
different situation when my (formerly) beautiful spotless 1995
dark green Saturn SL2 (affectionately called Sadie in reference
to the hardest jazz song (Sister Sadie) I ever attempted to play)
decided it wanted to try out for a stunt movie, and proceeded to
take a curve on ice and roll over into a ditch, ending with the
driver-side facing up. Needless to say, I was not pleased.
After all, there were no movie scouts there or anything to
witness it. Fortunately, I was unharmed (wear your seatbelts
please) but got a ticket for driving "too fast for conditions"
even though no one was there to gauge how fast I was driving, and
even though the next day when we were passing the area, another
car was in the ditch in the same spot. So my friend (thanks
Steph) drove up two hours to get me, and then we drove south the
next day. Since I had no transportation, I stayed the week
there, awaiting the fate of the car. But I got to see Paducah,
Kentucky (and I had a Peducah Hot Brown sandwich, one of the best
sandwiches I EVER had) and did enjoy my stay in southern Illinois
(thanks again Steph). Well, they finally declared it totalled,
but I will be getting a nice insurance settlement (I should crash
a car every two years if I always get such a nice settlement).
So I then took the Amtrak train into Chicago and got a ride into
DeKalb (thanks John-O K). We will have a funeral for the car
next Friday. In lieu of flowers, send me money. ;-)
So I suppose I should start getting some work done. And of
course do the usual and customary "pleading" for you to contact
me! Email is always easy, but I do so love getting postal mail
and phone calls (weekends are the best times to call, and
evenings as well; and I go to bed around 2 am Central Time so you
can call late). Incidentally, if any of you have in your email
archives my 1st or 2nd "updates of my life," please forward them
to me. If you want the 3rd, let me know. My address & phone &
email are still the same, but in case you do not have any or all
of them, here they are:
Work in the clinic was busy as usual. That same gallant,
fearless, courageous hero co-led a 12-session panic disorder
treatment group as well as individual therapy (conducting that
too, not as a client), gaining valuable experience. Classes for
the semester went well as usual, and our hero boldly ventured out
of the department to take two classes in the ed/counseling psych
department for the summer. Surviving without a car was not as
difficult as may be imagined, since he braved the elements and
walked to classes, and either took the university buses or rode
his 2-wheeled pedal-powered vehicle to the bank & grocery
shopping. Lest there be no excitement in his life, he even
managed a minor accident with this new-fangled contraption.
Despite all this, in late March or so, the same
aforementioned hero had to throw in the towel and made the
decision of dropping out of the PhD clinical psychology program
at Northern Illinois University. After many discussions (much
thanks, Al W, Steph S, Tracey T, Dave S, Stinky J, and Steve G),
the best course of action was decided: a 12-month leave of
absence, which can be extended another year. But our tale gets
ahead of us. Let us return.
He led a 2-person (hi Steph S!) expedition through Missouri
and Arkansas (even managing to touch into Mississippi) to Memphis
and loved it! Memphis is a great city, especially for music,
especially for Blues music (were it for country music, he would
not have dared; bravery has its limits!). Also, during the
summer months were not one, but two excursions into the Windy
City. First for the Taste of Chicago festival (hi Laura L, and
thanks for the food, Paddy M), then for the Grand Gathering of
Psychologists (sometimes called APA) where he again visited the
original Pizzario Uno to sample deep dish pizza (pretty good,
huh, Stinky J?). Somewhere in between all that were his 5th
annual birthday party complete with many home-made desserts, and
visits from those brave souls who traveled afar (thank you Heat
D, Steph S, and Kat E). Shortly before leaving the mid-west, the
final trial and/or tribulation was overcome: completing the
comprehensive exams to earn the Master's degree (still like the
idea of how to address people with a Master's degree, Todd H?)
and then celebrating at a good soul food restaurant (yes, right
in DeKalb!). From there he surveyed the landscape with the
generous lodging of friends (thanks Andrea V and Jeff & Kris M)
and transport (thanks Jeff M) before leading yet another crusade
(hi Stinky), in mid-August, to the east, traversing several
regions from Illinois and stopping once for the night in Columbus
(thanks Alicia D & Sean S) to collect bearings (he owns the whole
set now) and twice for food (in Michigan and in a town known as
Wheeling, West Virginia) before arriving at his destination of
New Jersey. Once back in NJ, he spied several cars before
nodding at a "ruby" 1994 Nissan Sentra XE.
Without wasting any time, our hero (was it mentioned how
valiant he is?) departed for lands unknown (at least to him) on
the 18th of August, with a quest to explore the northeast
territory of our lands. The first stop, after passing through
New Jersey, New York, and Mystic CT, was Newport, Rhode Island.
A very tourist-y town with plenty to do and see. Most exciting
here was the "World Famous" Cliff Walk, made yet more exciting by
the torrential rain, since one was but a few feet from the edge
of the cliff on this 3.5 mile trek, with sometimes but a few
inches of a poor-excuse-for-a-barricade between you and the
ocean, 10 meters below. Fortunately, there was no wind to whisk
our champion to those depths & possible death. Fortunately also
was the heater in the car to counter the rain when he arrived at
safety. And finally fortunately was the best, fresh, home-made
New England clam chowder back in town.
After one night and two days, the journey continued through
Providence RI and, by accident, Worcester MA before arriving a
little west of Boston. Two nights were spent here (thanks
Chelle C) while the days were spent in Boston, seeing the Da
Vinci exhibit at the Museum of Science, Harvard Yard, Boston
Common, this awesome sheet music store on Tremont Street, and
sharing Banana Rumba for dessert. It's a challenging city to
drive around in, but the subways are good. Before departing, our
conqueror saw fit to dip his feet in the Charles River.
He traveled up the coast of New Hampshire and Maine,
indulging again in a quick dip in the ocean in each of those
states before having a spicy meal (with plenty of water), the
"Drunken Noodle," in a Thai restaurant in Freeport ME. Heading
northwest he continued the passage toward Canada for several
hours before settling down at almost 1 in the morning to sleep in
the sleepy town of Jackman ME, about 15 miles south of the
border.
On the 1st of September was the next step, crossing the
border into the province of Quebec in Canada. Being the careful,
deliberate (obsessive-compulsive personality) person that he is,
on him were his birth certificate (very important) and driver's
license to get through customs. Discarded (or, more accurately,
eaten) were any foodstuffs such as fruits. And of course were no
firearms and illicit drugs. There were two lanes to get across,
one in English and one in French. Unfortunately, the English one
was closed, but the pleasant border guard spoke both languages,
so our hero was not resigned to use his broken French (it's being
fixed as we speak).
Originally planning on spending three days in Beauport,
Quebec (at Quebec City), five days were needed (merci, Anik D)
since it was so beautiful. Yes they mostly only speak French,
but our courageous hero managed just fine with his limited
knowledge of this language (and friends who spoke both
languages). Sites seen were Montmorency Falls ("taller than
Niagara" is the claim!), Laval University (and its unique & fun
to watch, major-specific "hazing" of 1st-year students),
Parliament (which was in session... but (sigh) in French), most
of downtown Quebec (by walking and the buses), Le Cosmos (the
"in-spot" restaurant according to the visitor's guide, right next
to the tower with the revolving restaurant on top) which served
the best French Onion soup as well as poutine, and much more,
leaving our defender almost an expert of the city.
That Friday, he left for Montreal and met people from Japan,
Australia, and New Zealand at the hostel. Interestingly enough,
the man with the lower bunk under his was also from New Jersey!!
He chanced upon an Egyptian restaurant with the menu in Arabic,
but it was translated... into French! Upon the recommendation of
the waiter (who spoke English), feves was (were?) ordered, with
kounafa for dessert. Both were quite good, although he was
unsure how to eat the feves, which was served as two gyro-like
pitas, a bowl of a mush bean-concoction, and some tomatoes and
hot peppers. Despite being asked twice how it is supposed to be
eaten, the waiter said to eat it however he liked, so he ate them
like burritos, hoping not to offend anyone!
After the one night in Montreal, he headed to Albany NY.
The U.S. border guard was meaner than the Canadian one, but there
was no trouble. From Saturday to Friday, he was in and around
Albany (thanks Stinky J) eating at a great Indian restaurant
called Shalamar's, going into Vermont and having a car key (but
not his!) break in the lock, exploring SUNY-Albany, meeting tons
of people at a party, and generally not causing too much trouble.
From there, he traveled through Pennsylvania and Maryland
and arrived in Washington DC, but didn't stay there for long, for
that Friday evening until Sunday was spent camping with 18 people
(of the Traveler's Circle) on Assateague Island MD, but a few
hundred meters from the ocean with wild horses running free
(really!). Aside from going to the beach (is he that
predictable?) and seeing dolphins and pelicans in and around the
water there, Saturday evening was spent in Ocean City MD. Our
hero spent the following week in DC (thanks Cassandra J & Todd H)
going to parties, riding the subways, eating at a great Thai
restaurant, and seeing the sites: National Zoo, FBI Building,
National Archives (where the Constitution and others are held),
Smithsonian Castle, National Holocaust Museum (researching
Theresienstadt ghetto where his great-grandfather was), and
Capital Building (with the Senate in session... and this time in
a language he could clearly follow). He will save the Supreme
Court, White House, and Pentagon for the next visit. ;-)
On Friday he took his leave of DC and headed to relatives in
Gaithersburg MD, where he rested & recuperated until Sunday, when
he traveled back into Pennsylvania, a little north of
Philadelphia, for a late lunch which included sharing some time
as well as peanut-butter pie (hi Debbi!) before heading just
further up for the night (thanks Jen T, especially with such
short notice, and I hope you weren't too tired the next morning).
Then on Monday was the trip to Trenton area to visit his old
college. He stayed there until Thursday (thanks Heather M),
running into many friends as well as professors of psych &
english, sharing black tie mousse cake (thanks Heidi W), other
meals (thanks Melissa K) helping with a Kappa rush which went
smoothly despite the fire drill during set-up, and generally
having a great time without getting into any trouble. On
Thursday, the 25th of September, after 2242 miles, 4 weeks,
around $450-500 (the biggest expense was buying gifts for others,
especially those who provided lodging!), 13 states, provinces,
and districts, meeting over 80 people, beaches in four states,
and 12 sleeping arrangements (only three nights for which he had
to pay!), he returned to Jackson, New Jersey, at 4pm.
The month & a half from mid-August to late September was
certainly a busy one, seeing 18 states/provinces/districts,
having 16 sleeping arrangements, and trying soul, Thai, Egyptian,
and Indian food (and the fresh home-made New England Clam
Chowder)! Since this past January, there were even five more
states! Quite busy, but ever-changing times. Currently, the
plans are to find a full-time job in psychology in research or
counseling, with possibly teaching as an adjunct psychology
professor. Once that is stable, an apartment will be found.
This will all be in the NJ / eastern PA / lower NY area, though
most hopeful is somewhere between New Brunswick and Philadelphia.
In addition to the actual paid-work, he will finally start
composing, as well as teach himself Spanish, get more involved
with some sports & fitness, practice some of his musical
instruments some more, and other fun things!
Thus ends the 5th installment of the epic saga without a
name. What may befall our hero when next we take up our legend?
In what new pitfalls will he find himself? And what new
fortunate happenstances will enable him to escape? With whom
might he be smitten, what misfortunes that smote him down will we
be reporting on next time, who might he smite who will thusly be
smit, will some other smiter end up smiting someone else leaving
him or her smitt, and will our dauntless hero learn to make more
reasonable New Year's Resolutions than that which is partially
satisfied with this current sentence? I have no clue; I am
merely your humble narrator who has decided, just now, to finally
use 1st-person in this narrative. But I too must take my leave,
leaving none other than how to reach him. I remain,
Kevin E. Gruenfeld
So 'twas, the first noteworthy account to fall upon your
humble narrator in this here 6th volume was the AIDS Walk in the
City of Brotherly Love, Philadelphia, in October. I thank thee
all for thy kindness and generosity, for amassing nearly $200 for
the crusade! Little did I know that the same aforementioned city
and I would cross paths several times betwixt then & now. Before
'twere to happen again, however, a weekend excursion to DC
transpired, which included seeing Cassandra J & Todd H for their
pumpkin carving party (we'll need to get the motorcycling in next
time, eh?), Mem P for a night on the town, and the rest of the
T.C. group.
The Third Annual After Thanksgiving Dinner And Caribbean
Vacation was planned and executed with no irreparable harm (and
no permanent tissue damage). Undying gratitude to Scott & Kathy
P, for use of their dwelling-place. And I thank thee all for
attending and the rave reviews of my cooking (and 1st prize to
Jacquie P for not only bringing my favorite wine, but my favorite
label as well, with the fine bottle of '95 Sutter Home White
Zinfandel)!
A few more excursions to Philadelphia ensued, including one
to see a former roommate's play be performed in December,
complete with a pre-show tour of the city (thanks, Craig C, for
the ticket, tour, & transportation, and other words beginning
with the letter "t"). To not make it feel bad or jealous (as
most inanimate objects so go-eth), the next month included a trip
to New York City to see The Capeman, the new musical by Paul
Simon, on pre-opening night (I hope you enjoyed, Danielle M, and
thanks for the lodging, cuz!). The show was good and the music
has few claimants to its superiority, indeed! Unfortunately,
most people disagreed with me and the show has since closed, but
this then makes those witnesses to it a rare happenstance (so far
as animate objects go). In between these shows was an occurrence
quite rare in these here parts for January: I took a short
sojourn to the beach (the "shore (shaw)" for all you
out-of-towners) with a friend (hi Vikki I!) I hadn't seen for
years. It was not too wintry that day for the boardwalk on
Seaside Heights with a jacket playing Skee-ball, Air Hockey,
Miniature Golf, and Ms. Pac-Man (nearly DOUBLING the high score,
thank you very much), but we skirted the water (yes, yes, it did
take some restraint on my part). I also became quite familiar
with inner-Trenton (lucky me) after visiting the state library
for job-hunting research, and with parts of Philadelphia near the
Free Library (is it for sale?) for the same purpose.
This is when the excitement started (as if it weren't there
already). My first interview, with Pfizer pharmaceuticals in
midtown Manhattan went well, and the interviews with ARBOR, a
market research firm just southwest of Philadelphia went well as
well. In between, Nessie, my nice 1994 Nissan Sentra XE had some
problems. Not so much the attitude problem as Sadie (remember
her wanting to try out for a stunt movie against my
self-proclaimed better judgment), but premature signs of old-age.
However, after some time (and much $), she was magically restored
to her (somewhat) youthful splendor and I expect no comments (or
at least no loud noises) from her again! In between the ARBOR
interviews was a trip to Lincoln Center in April to see Madama
Butterfly (hi Mistress Theresa O & Heather M) in Italian (thanks
again, Cuz, for lodging). Excellent performance! And a very
interesting pre-show conversation with an elderly well-dressed
gentleman near us who was extolling the virtues of marijuana
grown specifically in Victoria, Canada! Afterwards was a weekend
trip to DC-Maryland area to see relatives. (Interestingly
enough, another trip to see relatives, this time in latter June
to Baltimore for the 1st family reunion of a
great-great-grandfather, led to discoveries that some of my
ancestors not only came from Vienna and Odessa as I previously
knew, but also from Minsk.)
Another trip to DC commenced in May, corresponding (not
coincidentally) with the APS conference. Loud greetings to
Monster Dave S, John-O K, Bob W, and Jenny W (it's got to reach
DeKalb IL, you know) as well as Roger C from NJ (now CT). I'll
have you all know, that I actually got a flat tire in center-city
Philadelphia and drove all the way down to DC on my doughnut JUST
so that I would be there in time for you all (but I don't suggest
you try this at home... or on the road). Thanks again for
lodging, Cassandra J & Todd H, and I'm glad we all were able to
go trouncing around DC. And Dave... Alligator is not part of a
vegetarian diet (even though it DID taste good)!
Around this time & shortly following it were interviews with
the National Board of Medical Examiners, National Analysts, and
Executive Solutions, the latter two being market research firms,
the former two being in Philadelphia, and the latter one in Long
Island, which primed me for a nice visit to see relatives in Lido
Beach (and yes, as if you need to ask, I did go in the water).
Phone interviews were conducted with Unilever, among others, but
didn't have the opportunity to progress much further, due to a
very good reason resulting in me withdrawing my name from their
list as well as the list of others. In the process of these many
phone interviews & placement firm contacts, I was actually able
to meet the acquaintance of (on the phone) Igor Stravinsky's
(great?)-great-grandniece (well, -I- thought it was exciting).
Not quite as exciting (but eliciting a greater response) was my
father (age 54) being admitted to the hospital (not for an
emergency) for double heart-bypass surgery in latter May.
Somewhat puzzling, since he is in excellent shape and his heart
is at least fine, but two arteries were not, hence the surgery.
However, now he need not fret too much about those two arteries
since the surgery was very successful, and he has been recovering
well (so well, in fact, that he is back to driving us crazy and
we want to return him to the hospital... to a different wing!).
And then, on the 1st of June, 1998, I was NOT ONLY offered a
job at National Analysts as Operations Manager (where I started
on the 10th) right in center-city (if I were much more in the
center, I would be working in City Hall!), but for all those who
have been gently (and not-so-gently) inquiring, I got a date just
a few hours prior. The job and I seem to be well-matched (said
Kevin, deftly evading the romance questions), and the total
commute of around 100-110 minutes each way wasn't even that bad,
it was WAKING UP TO LEAVE AT (insert colorful metaphor here) 6:30
in the A.M.!
However, as of the 26th of June, I moved into my nice studio
apartment in the West Germantown / Mt. Airy section of
Philadelphia (1 block from the Upsal stop of the R8, for those
Philadelphia-train-savvy people), allowing me to slumber
oh-so-late and not leave for work until nearly 8 am (and this of
course is one of the best justifications). (The slogan of
Philadelphia, by the way, is "The Place That Loves You Back," a
slogan for which it is FAR TOO EASY to make wise-cracks, so I
will respectfully refrain.) An 8-story hi-rise containing my 420
square feet where visitors are always welcome (provided I buzz
you in... which I will, don't worry) and free parking as well!
Now I just gotta find the rest of my furniture!
Almost finally, the AIDS Encyclopedia was FINALLY published,
all 1000 pages of its glory, costing $135! I can get reduced
prices for anyone interested in viewing the articles I (and
anyone else) wrote.
I thank thee all for the parties (and often accompanying
sleepover) for which I was invited: Cassandra J & Todd H's
pumpkin carving, Suky P's Halloween, Cuz, Gayle C & Jen V & Kate
O's apartment warming & birthday, Dawn M, Chris & Jen T's new
year's (just 1 this year... & ask me what my new years
resolutions are), Lindy T & Chrissy Lynn S's Superbowl, Heat D (&
I'll try to make it to your new year's party next year... just
don't make it so far away!), Dawn F, Heather M, Jeff V, Scott &
Kathy P, and Craig C's apartment burning. Special thanks are due
to Al W for the opportunity to work on the research project & the
accompanying pay. And nods of acknowledgement (and big hugs!!)
to those of you I FINALLY saw after years (MANY years in some
cases) of absence: Vikki I, Chrissy Lynn S, Heidi H, Melissa K,
Dawn M, Ed B, Kah S. If by chance anyone were left out, know
that any omissions were due to faults in my memory and not in my
friendship.
Finally, the following lists ALL my contact information:
(work)
I remain,
"Indeed," he said, "the time is here
"Our tale continues, naught a scare,
"But O, I must your pardon ask
"His annual birthday party,
"National Analysts, his job,
But HE has his own perspective
MY apartment is now complete.
To get the piano from afar
This past year's Halloween costume,
Def-Leppard tee shirt was there, too,
Presenting at the end of year
Along that topic, furthermore
And late last year, I'm pleased to say
Moreover, then, I even learned
Readings on R8 train commute
Classes I took were, if I may,
There were, I'm glad, parties galore
Thanks are due to certain friends who
And for the opportunities
Furthermore, congratulations!
To friends "long-lost," a warm greeting,
I've been to Washington, DC
Also for fun I'm composing,
Reach me in Philadelphia
xxx-xx73.
And so I must this story end,
For similar beliefs are held,
My 7th annual Big Birthday Bash in April was successful, as
was my "Early Summer First Time Since 1990 That I've Been At One
Address For More Than One Year Party," which was called "one of
the best" and "the most bizarre" party by the reviewers (a.k.a.,
partygoers). Of course, this was the intent! Attend the next
birthday party and you will find out why! The 5th annual After
Thanksgiving Dinner And Caribbean Vacation will be approaching
soon, and my Grandmother, who gave me the Viennese Linzertorte
recipe, gave me some more recipes that I may try.
Another trip to Orlando (being picked up at 5:30 in the
AM!!!!!) for business ensued in August, where I tried excellent
Conch Chowder Soup (similar to Manhattan Clam Chowder (much
better than New England Clam Chowder!) but richer & thicker...
about as thick as I make my Minestrone soup!) & Key Lime Pie
(which I then felt compelled to make myself using fresh Key Limes
from Key Biscayne, Florida (thanks Jill W!)). For a "local
dish," I brought boiled peanuts home with me... a few hours
before Hurricane Dennis sort of hit. I will be in Orlando later
today for the third and final trip of this interesting project.
Other trips were the 1 or 2 day trips to DC (happy birthday, Todd
H) & Manhattan (to see the opera Kovanshchina at the Met & to see
people like Lish S & cuz). Of course I also made it to the beach
twice at Sandy Hook (hi Guru V & Heidi H & Brenda H!) resulting
in some sunburn (Grrr), and even took a tour of the (oldest
continuously operating) lighthouse there! And let's not forget
the evening trips to my birthplace, Jackson NJ, to see the
marching band competition (Go Jaguars!) and to Trenton for the
original silent Phantom Of The Opera with live organ
accompaniment (I told you I would make it to one of these,
Jacquie P!), as if Trenton isn't scary enough without it!
Philadelphia has been treating me quite fairly. I've been
having a LOT of fun rollerblading on Kelly Drive in Philadelphia.
I don't know what possessed me to try this-- I was so bad at
rollerskating (not too many of you witnessed my attempts at this
15 years ago! You might have, Mitch F, Mr. Adam S, Michelle B,
Janelson N, Stu-Maaann G, Teri-Resa G, Rach R, Scooby S)-- but I
am doing quite well with this! I appeared on television on
Memorial Day when I biked to the Liberty Bell (perhaps 10 miles
each way)! It was only for a second- I suppose they wanted more
footage of Mayor Rendell, so I graciously let him steal the
camera... I'm such a pushover! Besides rollerblading and biking,
I've also made it to a pool several times, and have been running
(yes, barefoot sometimes, when I am feeling particularly
masochistic!). It's growing cold now, so I will be starting
again with the stairclimbing (my goal is the (equivalent) of the
Sears Tower in Chicago - 110 flights... I made it to 63 last
season!). But I was outside for the recent AIDS Walk... and I
proudly raised $250 for this!
I've also been to Independence Day parties (Judy R, Jill W--
watching fireworks over the Art Museum), a poker party (go
Guru V!), a picnic (Kappa), a graduation party (Heat D), dinners
(Suky P, Kat & Ed B), sleepovers (cuz, Kat & Ed), an engagement
party (cuz), a swing dancing wedding (Kat & Ed), an
in-town-for-a-few-days party (hi Laura C... thanks Holly H!) and
others! And since I suppose it fits here, congratulations on
your engagement to Anik D & Francois G and to Dani M & Mike E!
The Aikido class months ago went very well, I'm pleased to
say. I was also recently certified in SCUBA diving (Hi Shara
N!). Ballroom dancing (Jitterbug- Hi Debbie W!) just ended, and
black & white darkroom photography is drawing to a close (I've
developed & printed my own photos... now I can take all those
risque shots of people since I don't have to send them out
anymore!). I also learned to juggle with the Juggler's Club of
Philadelphia and was also able to help out much more at The Brick
Playhouse (and even managed to work at The Wilma Theatre for a
night) and look forward to more theatre experiences soon, now
that I am officially a "Theatre Artist" at The Brick. One of my
favorite accomplishments was repairing my 10-year-old
clock-radio-phone-answering machine, which I love for several
reasons including the PRIVACY button. I was NOT about to junk it
to get a new one... I have a closer relationship with this
inanimate machinery than with some people (though not you
receiving this email)... perhaps that's why I'm not meeting more
women!?!?
Starting in April, I write restaurant reviews for work
(after all, they gave me a generous raise!). They are a lot of
fun to write (and to dine at)... and I even mentioned some of you
(Kate L, Craig C, Rose O, Theresa O, Kah S & Andy W, Stinky J) in
them! Thanks to Dara M, Ginny D, Dip M, & Ed B for help with the
languages (when I write these reviews, I include some words &
phrases in the current language to spice them up (pun intended).
I was fine with the Japanese, French, Spanish, but needed help
with Italian, Chinese, Hindi, Gaelic, German). Philadelphia does
excel in restaurants, and I was able to try escargot, snapper
soup, & other stuff somewhere in all the busy-ness... including a
Linzertorte which, in the opinion of TWO impartial people (okay,
one of the opinions is mine) is not as good as the one I make
(thanks, Craig)! Also right here in Philadelphia was The
Marriage of Figaro (well, the opera... hi Dawn M!), West Side
Story (nearby... hi Ray C!), and performances by (Edgar Allen &)
The Poettes!
The apartment looks even better, though I may move to Center
City in June/July (we'll see). The dining chairs have been
reupholstered (thanks Andy W & Kah S) & the leftover fabric is
now placemats, and I sewed on new burgundy & black fabric to the
bamboo furniture. More of my photos abound my walls, including
new ones of Philadelphia! For the future, I will continue
learning Spanish, composing, playing piano, stairclimbing & other
fitness stuff, & perhaps resume learning harmonica. I may take
trips to Quebec CANADA for a wedding in December (I will try,
Anik D!), Cozumel MEXICO in February (just off of Cancun for
SCUBA diving- we'll see Shara N!), and places that strike my
fancy- probably something in Manhattan, maybe Boston, probably
DC, skiing somewhere, and any other suggestions!
So this is what I remember in my life. Everything else is
either boring... or has been repressed! If you are looking for
my Life Updates #1-7, contact me. I've got them archived here
somewhere! Now, HOW you contact me leaves you several options.
You can write to me (or visit!) at xxxx Greene St #xxx,
Philadelphia PA 19144-xxxx. I like visitors... and I've been
known to cook elaborate meals for them! You can call me at
215-xxx-xxxx. Or you can use x@x.x to email me.
Skywriting messages to me is not highly recommended. Smoke
signals and semaphore I would also caution against. I still
remember International Morse Code, alphabet signing, and a few
letters in Braille! But... we'll see just how creative we all
can be!
My best to EACH and EVERY ONE OF YOU,
And so it journeys on this tale of mine,
When, here we found ourselves at the start of November,
although,
I have not gone out to see a movie in over a year, though if
you're wondering why this does not leave me in a state of
contrition,
With water water everywhere why should I find myself under as
much as 78 feet of it?
January was an interesting month, breeding, for the first time
ever on my system, hooking up my digital piano to my computer on
the 8th, a frabjous Saturday,
One of the highlights since the last "life update" installment
occurred around my 27th birthday on April 22,
On 1 May I moved into my new apartment, in Center City
Philadelphia, at xxxx Arch St #xxx (zip code 19103-xxxx, phone
215-xxx-xxxx), marking the first time ever that I lived above the
3rd floor,
In addition, I have for my apartment some nice new plants,
In November, shortly before my 5th annual After Thanksgiving
Dinner And Caribbean Vacation, I discovered the great Wissahickon
Trail
Not too long ago came events that to some brought many a tear
I took classes on retro swing lindy hop/jitterbug and simple
bike repair/maintenance, received my AED certification (to add to
CPR), got my PA driver's license, bought a passport and a chess
set to add to my stash,
So There, Ludwig, now I too have 9 complete,
Kevin E. "Little G, G, The Kev-in', Grunie, Vejur" Gruenfeld
We resume our tale (now in prose, not verse), this being the 10th
installment of Kev's Life Update, on Saturday, the 1st of July, 2000. At
this time, I had been in my new apartment for two months, enjoying the
expanse of room, which many of you have already been privy to see (and for
those who haven't visited- shame on you!). I've filled much of this space
with three dozen plants, new furniture, my enlarged photos on the wall
(reprints are for sale, and thank you Kah & Andy for purchasing the first,
Independence Hall In The Snow), and other stuff.
It was a usual busy past several months. It started with the U.S.
Independence Day celebration, and I met our mayor again at city hall (for
the Healthy Walk & Fitness Expo), shortly before WALKING to the famous Art
Museum for their concert & fireworks.
Not only is City Hall .91 miles from me, and the Art Museum .80
miles from me, but I was able to explore much of the area near me. I
added tree climbing to the list of fitness things to do on Kelly Drive,
along with running, bicycling, rollerblading, walking, and then bought
more weights for weight lifting (who said Philly is the "fattest" city, or
even the 3rd?!).
This several-month time period certainly had an interesting mix of
parties! I enjoyed at those of my company picnic (complete with swimming
& volleyball), Jen V, Heidi & Dave's hula party (of course on the same
night as Danielle & Mike's wedding), Jacquie & Don's housewarming,
Philly's Logan Square neighborhood block party, ALL 4 Halloween parties
(George, Shane, Logan Square, Brick Playhouse, the last of which was the
only one where I arrived in costume, a re-enactment of the controversial
1st year grad school one from 1995), 1/2 of Heidi's end of 3rd decade
bash, the company December holiday party (with the great meal, desserts,
and dancing) followed by (that same evening) Dawn's holiday party, Mike &
Angie's pollyanna open house, the one for my group at work, both New
Year's Eve parties- Heat and M-Gray & Sir Tristan, and my own parties- the
little 10,000 day old sleep-over and my very successful 6th annual after
Thanksgiving & Caribbean vacation (23 people) & thanks for your generosity
of raising $20.46 for charity, to Rya for Habitat For Humanity.
These past several months were for several people,
"family-building" ones, with all the marriages and births! First the five
weddings, to Danielle & Mike, Cripes Kristen, Sue(ba tuba), cuz & Dorit
(my new "cuz") near the beaches of Long Island (had to mention the
beaches), and Lisa & Dan, my congratulations! And then the six babies in
even fewer months (5 girls and 1 boy), to Ruth & Jeff (Isabella), Lisa &
Suzanne (Eva), Stacey & Kim (Hope), Anik & Francois (Margarite), Melissa
& John (Jenna), Kat & Ed (Ciaran), plus to Sue & her man (adopting an 8 &
9 year old brother & sister), equal congratulations! And best wishes in
advance for 2001 to Linda & Dennis, Adine & Ben, Marta & Gene, Joe &
Rachel.
There were several interesting events in my life in & around the
city. Edgar Allen & The Poettes performed during The Fringe, the
Republican National Convention was here in Philly in early August, where I
made it a point to position myself right in the middle of the protests in
all the excitement (the city was absolutely buzzing, so much "electricity"
in the air!). Everyone knew what the indoor speeches would be about and
what the results would be (what are the odds... "The state of Illinois is
gonna go way out on a limb here and nominate Pat Buchanan"), so I avoided
all that and saw the REAL "power of the people" at the protests, just a
few blocks from where I live!
A few days before that, thanks to Adine & Ben, I joined them in
the lighted boat parade to start the RNC, aboard the Riverboat Queen, an
85' paddle-wheeler after our deluge (of rain). It wasn't until most of
the way through that we realized the lights and decorations on our boat
were to represent Mississippi (there was a boat for each state). My
thanks to the same folks for the "Center City on the Silver Screen"
limousine scavenger hunt (thanks for helping, Monique). I missed the
Johnny Walker Scotch tasting, but I did meet (again) the World's Fastest
Reader (at your wedding cuz & Dorit). I also was able to again see the
great Mummer's Parade on New Year's Day (ahh reminiscent of those marching
band days... but where is the brass?!), and the Rocky Run the day before,
both only a few blocks from my home.
I ventured to the west to see my blind cousin's Bar Mitzvah in
Denver (my first time to that city), had plenty of fun dates, demolished
my previous high score on Ms. Pac-Man (see my update #9), and then broke
the new record that same night after dinner, ending at 145,120, and this
time I have Stacey A as a witness! Back in the city, I explored the mint,
Chinatown, Old City, Rittenhouse Square with Frisky Prisky, started
composing the Techno-Swing song with Monique (and her killer voice), sold
my first photo print (yes, I know I mentioned it already but I am quite
proud of this), donated my 25th pint of blood to the American Red Cross
(although by MY records, they took 27 pints... and I gave 9 more through
Heartland in Illinois!), and FINALLY had my 1st physical exam in 2.5
years! (I'm in GREAT health, and in fact received many compliments on my
health from the nurse & the doctor; I haven't received that many
compliments in 1 day in a long time... and this from someone who saw me
naked!).
Continuing with the interesting foods tradition, I enjoyed
Jamaican with Heidi H, vegetarian Moroccan with Brenda, New Orleans,
Afghan, & much else with Craig, Burmese with Dawn M, sushi (including a
sea urchin and eel) with Adam, Igor, & others, caviar with Patrice (thank
you), my own Oriental noodle concoction for Stinky and Kate (thanks for
the visit late at night), & others.
Recently, I joined the Logan Square Town Watch, was nominated for
inclusion in Who's Who In America for 2002, saw Hamlet with Catherine, had
a snowball fight right outside my apartment one late night (with Igor,
Adam, and Dawn), went ice-skating in town (without falling!), saw
ComedySportz (the other good comedy improv here in the city... just a few
blocks from home), and have basically been enjoying! Tonight, I leave on
my vacation for Carnaval Bonhomme in Quebec (the largest winter festival
in the WORLD). Soon after includes a visit/tour of the Johnson House (a
stop on the Underground Railroad) within walking distance of where I used
to live in NW Philly, a meditation class, skiing, more ice-skating here in
Philadelphia, weddings, births, and much else, which I will be writing
about in several months! If you are interested in any of these events,
let me know! Before that, I must make up for lost time (up to 12 years?),
with greetings to Nicole K and Cripes Kristen!
I hope you enjoyed reading this 10th installment of my life
update. The whole story is on my almost 6-years-old website ([deleted]).
In closing, you can reach me at [deleted] or at work [deleted] (direct
line) or [deleted]. Use [deleted] for email. You can also write or visit
me at [deleted] Philadelphia PA [deleted]. I always have time for my
friends!
Most sincerely,
Life Update #11,
It started in the wintry cold
Though it's cold was not defeated,
Ste-Anne-de-Beaupre Basilique
I tried the wine called Caribou
After Le Chateau Frontenac,
At this point the reader might ask, "Just how bad were these driving
conditions?"
The Underground Railroad, a Stop,
On top, more dance lessons with Jen
But I got my own cycling in
An R700 Raleigh,
But running I shall not neglect,
Indeed, my running also took off this season, as I raced my first 5K
race, Race For Clean Air, with a time of 22:09, finishing 99th out of 601,
as well as my first 10K race, for Vietnam Vets, with a time of 45:54,
finishing 58th out of 326!
This city has its share of arts
With Heidi, Catherine, saw Show Boat.
And other Philly traditions
The Brick Playhouse right on South Street,
Logan Square, my 'hood, Town Watch, I
Of course let us not forget the fun company picnic,
Returned yesterday from a cruise,
I finally got to the beach
My high school reunion, a blast!
I also took a Car-Care class
My half Marathon's coming soon
Plus the annual Logan Square
And that's the truth with lies dispelled
Well well well, here we are again! No poetry this time, as planned for
this, my Life Update #12 (although you can claim credit if you want from
your complaint, Aerili), but there is a pattern here!
When we last left off of my missive, it was the 1st of September,
2001. Let's skip ahead. After thinking about it for a few years, I
finally took my southeast U.S. tour, hitting Charleston SC, Savannah,
Atlanta, and Charlotte NC on November 1-10. In Charleston, I ate okra
gumbo & jambalaya at Poogan's Porch, raced the 3rd annual James Island
Connector Run 10K (the toughest race in Charleston they say, even harder
than Cooper River Bridge!) placing #29 out of 253 with a time of 44:29,
went in the ocean at Folly Beach on Folly Island, took two tours of the
city including a great ghost tour (ask me about Philadelphia Ave and the
innkeeper in her wedding dress and the 5' spikes), and also ate she-crab
soup with Sherry on top (the local dish), shrimp & crawfish etouffee, and
fried green tomatoes.
In Savannah, I took a ghost tour (ask me about the dead ringer and
being saved by the bell, two expressions originated here) and my own
walking/driving tour, ate more crawfish and she-crab soup, ate at the
famous Mrs. Wilkes boarding house (and went up to Mrs. Wilkes-- they think
she's about 95 years old-- and introduced myself) for their famous
southern hospitality, tried the local dish of lowcountry boil (pronounced
/bol/) on Tybee Island (yes, I did go in the ocean at Tybee Beach and did
see the lighthouse), and entered Bonaventure Cemetery (the setting of
Midnight In The Garden Of Good And Evil).
Then there was Atlanta (I passed Vidalia, but Vidalia onions were
not in season). I toured Buckhead, Underground Atlanta, the Martin Luther
King historic site (including the Gandhi exhibit), his birth house, and
his grave site (and collected chestnuts from the surrounding trees; you
can't get THEM in gift shops; if you want one, please let me know). I
took a tour of the city which included the Margaret Mitchell house and the
350' Cyclorama, ate a "Philly Cheesesteak," touched into Alabama (18
states to go!), had lunch at the rotating Sun Dial in the Westin Hotel,
the tallest hotel in Western hemisphere (hey, I didn't think they would
let me take photos from the 72nd floor if I didn't eat there). I also met
the Atlanta Singles Running Organization for a 6.5 mile run + dinner (hi
Yvette!)
After that was Charlotte, staying with my cousin Warren. I ran a 5K
here, though it was my only disappointing race of the season at 22:59
(though I was still #50 of 229, so I guess others had an off day as well).
I tried Vietnamese for the first time, along with a BBQ sandwich with
slaw, Brunswick stew and hushpuppies, and ate at Fuel Pizza (from the
movie Shallow Hal, shot here). I also wrote the plays that I submitted to
The Brick Playhouse while here, before returning to Philly, logging 2,405
miles for my much-needed vacation!
As I recall, several events were looming on the horizon back in
September. The first was the Scenic Schuylkill Century, one of the
largest bicycle rides in the area (hi Stacey & Steve!). My cycling goal
of last season was this 100-mile trek. I ended up doing 115 miles that
day (ask me why), finishing an hour before the Logan Square Block Party
began (which I attended, with muscles that I didn't know could get sore,
sore). The following week was my running goal: The Philadelphia Distance
Run, a half-marathon. I was very proud of my chip time of 1:43:55 (and
Shari's time), placing me #1828 out of 5927. The Philly Marathon was in
November, but it's no secret that I don't like colder weather running.
However, running a Marathon might happen for me this year. After all,
according to Dara L, I'm now a hard-core runner since we ran in 26-F in
the snow in January!
It was a great time for the performing arts. My first time in
Walnut Street Theatre, the oldest theatre in the country, with Laura B and
Kelly; the Kimmel Center grand opening with Jen Vi; the Academy of Music
with Laura B for Handel's Messiah. After about two years, I finally went
to the movies, for Harry Potter (thanks, Jeff S) and A Beautiful Mind with
Brenda C (starring Monique... well, not really starring, but she had a
part!). I of course went to The Brick Playhouse as usual for the IT
series. In February, however, I became more a part of the creative arts
process, when they accepted the two first plays I wrote for their annual
Night Of 1,000 Plays series.
I was quite satisfied with my debut, "All Natural," and the second,
"CK One." Judging from audience reaction (and your kind comments) they
were both great successes! Thank you for attending, Craig, Pease,
Monique, Allison, Helene, Stu, Jen Vi, Kelly, Mom, Dad, Ron, Jeff S,
Kieran, Michelle T, and the half-dozen other friends of yours that I met.
There's a meal on me for the first person to determine the deliberate
significance of the names of all four people in the first play (and I'll
give the scripts to anyone who asks)! I'm trying to get the videotapes of
both plays.
There were also many varied parties during this time including my
grandparents' 60th wedding anniversary (a month before Grandpa's surgery,
which was successful), The Brick's Halloween party (with my same
provocative costume as last year), my 7th annual After Thanksgiving Dinner
& Caribbean Vacation with 25 people (thank you!) & 103 pounds of food
(yes, I weighed it as I cooked it!), parties from work including the
holiday party with Jen Vi & the group party & Mike G's party, The Brick's
holiday party, those of Jill T, Michelle T, & Adam G (the 8 parties in 2
weeks I somehow made it through), Adam G's Superbowl & related gatherings,
and Jacquie & Don's end-of-winter dessert party!
Other related events included Terror Behind The Walls @ Eastern
State Penitentiary, Ben F's 2nd annual Center City on the Silver Screen
limousine scavenger hunt from City Hall (and the Press Party a few weeks
prior), and the 20th annual Beaux Arts Ball with Shari (two black tie
events in 3 weeks!). Ironically enough, the location of the latter is
along my Art Museum-to-Valley Forge bike ride (take note, Don and Stacey &
Steve!), so I talked my way past security into having a look inside this
building during a ride. The building was not finished and had no
carpeting yet, so, since I didn't have too much time to walk around the
huge floors, I actually rode my bike around inside, all in my cycling
gear! ONE WEEK LATER, I was in a tux, complete with black top hat, white
gloves, & white scarf!
Other non-related events included ice-skating, swing dances with
Catherine and Heat, and attending my first mural dedication here in
Philadelphia (and meeting Philly's own very sweet Grammy-nominated Jill
Scott). I encourage you to go to a mural dedication... there are enough
to pick from in Philly! I served my first jury duty, with Judge Eugene
Maier, the Judge featured in City Paper this March (both defendants were
guilty on all six nasty charges). It was actually an educational,
enlightening experience! Testimony included the best example of a
can-you-guess-the-answer-to-this question (reproduced here backwards, for
the squeamish: "revirdwercs a fo dne prahs eht htiw selcitset eht ni uoy
debbats eh nehw leef ti did woh").
I finally put my photos on a CD, in addition to the portfolio I
assembled two years ago, both of which you may borrow. I can email photos
to you, too! This is something I'm quite proud of, as I've already had a
few purchases. I met Cecily Tynan of channel 6 at the first meeting of
the Tri-State Multisport Association, went to my first pro hockey game,
tried an Ostrich burger here in Philly, made it to 23rd Street Cafe for
their jazz, had deep dish pizza at Pizzaria Uno and then had a colleague
bring me back a frozen one from Chicago(!), and finally tried our
Malaysian place, Panang. This city has so much to offer- take advantage
of it! For example, anyone wanting to teach a non-credit course/seminar
in Mt. Airy, there are opportunities available!
For the future, I'll continue at The Brick Playhouse (and you are
welcome as well!). The 5K Race For Clean Air is the 20th of April (this
was the first race I ran, last year, and I am planning on doing it again
with several of you!) and my 10th Annual Big Birthday Bash will be that
evening. The Broad Street Run is May 5, too early in the season for me,
but I plan to volunteer for it, as well as for the First Union Pro Bike
Races culminating in Philly on the 9th of June for which I was a course
marshal before (I strongly encourage you to volunteer for something like
this- it's a great, exciting experience!). I made the next cut for Who's
Who In America, but I'm not in yet... I just get the "privilege" of
ordering the book at over $300 off! Hmm... maybe I'll start a business
like this and sell the books for over $600!
There are plenty of swing dances to attend (and I can teach ya, as
I've already taught a couple of people). You can do Town Watch with me,
can join the new running club that Dara L and I are starting, and can get
involved with Philly Young Professionals that Jen Vi is starting (email me
for info on these three). Perhaps also, we'll get to more improv comedy
shows, the Mummer's Museum, the Mutter Museum of Medical Oddities, and the
National Liberty Museum, and of course the running races and long bike
rides. Hey, most anything keeping us active taking us away from the
television is a good thing!
Congratulations to the seven couples now engaged, including
Teri-Resa, Laura Mc, and Dara L, and the seven expecting, including Ted &
Rubi, Jacquie & Don, Heidi & Dave, and Michelle & Stan! Almost finally,
greetings and salutations to cover up to SEVEN years to Laura Mc, Emily &
Dev, Jen Vo, and Meghan! Finally, you can reach me at 1-215-xxx-xxxx or
at work (we moved in November from 17th & Market to 19th & Market, now
only six blocks from home!) at 1-215-xxx-xxxx (direct line) or
1-800-xxx-xxxx. Use x@x.x for email. You can also write or
visit me at xxxx Arch St #xxx, Philadelphia PA 191xx-xxxx. I always have
time for my friends!
Most sincerely,
Number 13 is here, and follows below for you to read,
There were several events or achievements I did after much planning,
waiting, something else, or at least some anticipation,
One of the most industrious and rewarding undertakings was, with
Dara L, the inception of a Center City Running Group,
My congratulations go out to several friends who had achievements of
their own during the span of this email,
Unfortunately, there were many events leading to great pain
In late May, from Claire, I bought a Saturn SL2 car
I've found there are so many annual events in which to take part in
Philly, this fair town, here,
Only three times this year did I make it to the beach (don't call it
the shore
For the future, now that my running and cycling goals that I had set
I've been able to do,
Now #13 is just about done,
It's been 10 months since I wrote another "Kev's Life Update." But
here, after the longest gap since I started, is #14, commencing on the 1st
of December, 2002.
As I recall, we had just finished the 8th Annual After Thanksgiving
Dinner And Caribbean Vacation (with plenty of photos)! Never fear, for
many more came to follow. Milestone parties/outings were for Brenda H
(35), Aunt Harriet (80), Adam (30) & his sushi, Helene and her Thai (30),
Maria-Paula (30), the surprise for Craig (30), Kelly and her Indian (25),
and me (30) hosting 32 & 1/2 people in late April for my 11th annual
birthday party (more photos!)! Other birthday celebrations were for
Kieran, Jen L, Mike Do., Jeff S, Sue B & with Meg for their musical
housewarming party. Farewell dinners were for Ben & Ellie and the
surprise one for Dara L and Matt. Weddings were for Ben & Ellie, Stu &
Margie, Jenny & Mark, Dara & Matt. Congratulations to them & to Miriam at
her graduation party! We also had our "formal dinner" at Twenty21 (an
almost $1,200 check... and photos!). There were parties by Nicole H, the
NA Holiday party with Brenny & BBR group party, The New Year's Eve parties
by Adam and with Catherine, Louis, Jeff's Shabbat gathering, the annual
Logan Square Block Party with Mayor Street & Councilman Clarke, and the
annual Philly Runners pre-PDR pasta party Sep 20 (raising $114). Wow,
what a long paragraph of celebrations! I like mentioning y'all!
But there's another long one of athletic stuff. I saw an orthopedic
surgeon in November for my left knee, but it was inconclusive, though
after taking it easy for a bit, it hasn't bothered me (it curses at me in
Greek sometimes though!). Still, I haven't done much long distance
running, saving a Boston qualifying time for next year! I started with my
bike trainer late December, then slowly added running mileage, including
the Philly Runners infamous 14-F degree run (with 14 people!). Still, the
short races were good: the 22nd 5K Race For Clean Air with a time of 19:54
(#51 of 652) and later the PDR 5K with 18:35 (#23 of 532) & post-race
lunch (thanks Bridget!), plus the Philly Runners outings (and now that
Dara "fled" Philly, Seth & Kelli & Bridget are running this with me... of
294 members!).
The cycling season started with a Team Tania brunch. Then, Roy
installed clipless pedals. In June were the pro bike races where I was a
course marshal in Trenton & Philly (Don & Courtney know!) where I met
several pro's and even rode with the Jelly Belly pro team for what THEY
called an "easy ride" (the Manayunk Wall isn't part of MY "easy ride")!
On my long Sunday rides (with Stacey & Steve, Jen L, Roy, Elena, etc.), I
set a new speed record of 43mph. It wasn't all smooth sailing when I
biked my annual 115-mile day, when "oblivious woman" at mile 80 caused me
to have an accident, but I'm fine now. I'm almost at my cycling goal of
1,500 miles for the year, but it's getting cold, and I still have 148
miles!
I sampled just a tiny portion of all the opera & classical music in
Philly, including the Haydn trumpet concerto, the best performance of Rite
Of Spring, and a great performance of Beethoven's 9th (hi Chris G), all by
the Philly Orchestra. The Jerusalem Symphony Orchestra was in town as
well (thanks Dara G) which I heard with Laura B: Dvorak 9, Beethoven piano
concerto 4. I raced home early from the Trenton pro bike race for
Barenboim's performance of four Beethoven sonatas (next time, Audrey!) and
an autograph afterwards. All these were great seats too! Tracy's Young
Friends of the Philly Opera was busy as well (giving me my first event at
the Pyramid Club), and that's gearing up again. Thanks to Monique's
prodding, I FINALLY composed my first swing song. It ain't great, but
it's fine for a first attempt (let me know if they are going to use it!).
The theatre was busy as usual at The Brick Playhouse, especially at the
annual Night Of 1,000 Plays when Magpie, Kieran, Jen, and Roy saw my "CK
Two" there. I'm busy writing more for next February's N1K, though in the
meantime, there will be other IT performances (maybe we'll see Mike Do.
act again?) as well as The Dive/The Waitstaff. And, since this is the
participatory performance arts paragraph (?), I did end up singing Karaoke
with other Philly Runners folks (Queen's Crazy Little Thing Called Love
Roy Orbison's Crying). What's next?
However, we shan't neglect mentioning the ice-skating, the snowball
fight, bowling, a Union League tour (hey, you donate blood there, you can
sweet talk someone into giving you a tour!), watching Matt (with Dara &
Kieran) perform at the Laff House, a tapas tasting (and other Philly Young
Pro's events), the CCPA 25th Anniversary in City Hall (thanks, Ben F),
helping several people move (Sue & Tom, Susan B, Seth), and but one trip
to the beach, Sea Girt of course (and didn't come anywhere near close to
drowning this time)!
Don't you see all that's here for you when you stop watching
television!
For those who actually saw me in the past couple months, you'll note
that the long hair is now gone! Cut off June 27 and donated to Locks Of
Love (they make wigs for children with hair loss). Yes, some people who
have known me for several years have never seen me with short hair. I
basically don't even have to comb my hair now! Ahhhh. :-) Katie, make
sure you save that hair wrap I gave you in 1996! I have photos of it
chopped off too!
Due to our war, I was asked to play Taps for a kid at Drexel U who was
killed in Kuwait in April. This was actually aired on channel 10 & I have
the tape. Anyone who can play trumpet may be part of this volunteer
organization (ask for info). If any of you happen to have recorded the
channel 29 news on August 17 (hmm... what are the odds), let me know,
since I'm on there for about 10 seconds. Since it fits no where else... a
revision from a previous email, Who's Who In America -IS- at the Philly
Library (so don't order one for the low low price of some $300; just
photocopy the page you want). Watch for me in the next edition! I
certainly am NOT buying a copy!
My last day at National Analysts was earlier this year with a great
farewell lunch. I decided to take off a few months, but am now job
hunting (with a degree in clinical psych & experience in market research)
for research based positions, social policy, statistics/psychometrics,
grant foundations, etc. (in case anyone has any leads!).
Finally, long-lost hellos to Marissa (the record at 10 years) on the DC
trip Feb 1 (the Columbia tragedy) visiting on a trolley tour of the
Washington monument, Lincoln Memorial, Aquarium, Georgetown. Also to
Sabine, Erika, Danielle H, Tammy, Stu-Maaann. It's apparently migration
season with farewells on their moves to Dawn-dear to Japan, Kieran to DC,
Ellie & Ben to Montana, Dara & Matt to Hoboken, Jilly to Ridgewood. Best
wishes to you!
Next time, #15 will resume in verse. Ouch! Contact me and tell me
what you thought!
Most sincerely,
Get
Run-
Mon-
On
I
There
The
In
Now
I was actually asked about sending another one of these out recently!
I started these "life updates" when I moved to Illinois for grad school in
1995 and write 1-2 per year, some in verse, some in prose. This is prose
year. If you want any of the previous ones, go to the top link at
www.tcnj.edu/~gruenfel (my web page) or simply ask me for 'em!
Kev's Life Update (Get A KLU) #16 begins innocuously enough, at one of
many Curtis Institute of Music recitals with Heather, hearing Alma &
others, then 10 days later at the same place but with Igor, Chris, and
Liz. I was to hear Alma again in February.
Before that though was another performance of the Mummers, on a balmy
January 1. You who haven't seen this don't know what you're missing!
Other Philly staples are the Flower Show in March, the first time I saw
this (with Serena) largest indoor flower show in the country. And of
course The Brick Playhouse's Night Of 1,000 Plays in February. For that
one, I had 3 of my plays performed (I digitally taped 'em all if ya missed
them), including my first playwright collaboration, with Rachel (with
Lippe acting!). It also technically marked my debut theatre performance,
as I did the off-screen "announcer" voice-over each night for one of my
plays!
Even closer to home, I now coordinate Logan Square Town Watch. Anyone
in my 'hood who is interested in this, let me know! I'm also on the board
of directors for the new Lower Schuylkill River Park Trail Users
Association (Free Schuylkill River Park) and we've met with City Council,
so tell me of any concerns for this. An affiliate group (SRDC) had free
movies & bands during July & August on this beautiful new path!
Philly Runners, the best running club in the world, had plenty of
activities (aside from running)! We went skiing at Blue Mountain for the
2nd year in a row thanks to Seth, played snow football thanks to Marita,
went ice-skating, had our annual awards dinner with a snowball fight
afterwards (it was Saturday January 22, when we were hit with the most
snow of the season), had a Caesar Rodney pre-race dinner at Marra's thanks
to Marita, got most excellent new coolmax shirts, had a pre-race dinner
for Broad Street thanks to Rachel & Dave, had the largest club run on May
10 with 52 people, staffed a table at the EPA Health Fair (Rachel, Serena,
and I), and on May 22, after a visit from Cuz, had our first inter-club
soccer game vs. Wissahickon Wanderers where I twisted my left ankle at the
end of the game, on top of the strain I had been nursing. >:-( It was
just about healed when I twisted it again this past Tuesday, 19 days
before the famous Philadelphia Distance Run half-Marathon. Grrrrr. I
STILL intend to race.
On more of a personal note, my first race in a year & a half was my
usual, the Run For Clean Air 5K in April. I had to run with my left ankle
wrapped, the first time I ever raced like that, as the strain from last
year resurfaced & I was icing it to coax it to heal. I was able to eke
out 19:35 (34th place of 967), but still 6 seconds slower than desired. I
was vindicated though by captaining our team, which took 1st place men:
Phil E. Runner and the Iliotibial Band. Also exciting was being
interviewed in the Spring 2005 issue of Philadelphia Style Magazine for
running (and yes I have a scan of the article if you want it)!
Yet cycling was not neglected with that other Philly staple, the Pro
bike races in June. I was a marshal again for the Trenton & Philly races,
spoke with Councilman Nutter and Cecily Tynan at the latter, and also at
the latter took a lap in the back of a pick-up truck to assist the other
marshals, seeing the entire course (during the race) for the first time!
The Team Tania brunch was held earlier (thanks, Stacey and Wild Child
Michelle) and the tour d'Omelet later (thanks, John), and we were able
once again to see what we actually look like sans head & eye coverings and
lycra! A couple weeks ago, I set a new speed record at 46mph on the
famous Umbria Hill!
Ah, but there were plenty more musical performances in the city! Chris
got great Philly Orchestra seats (even if only Mozart!). Opera In The
(Rittenhouse) Square was better than ever. Live-8 had Bon Jovi, Dave
Matthews, Alicia Keys, Stevie Wonder, Will Smith, Destiny's Child, Linkin
Park & Jay-Z, Kanye West (there were others that I missed). They Might Be
Giants played at Penn's Landing. Total cost for all + the Curtis
Institute + the Flower Show + The Brick: $0.00! I doubt I can manage that
one again!
The many parties were of Albert, Fran & Dominic's Christmas, English
Mike's New Year's Eve, Grandma's surprise 85th, Rachel & Dave, Miriam &
Paul housewarming / birthday / superbowl, Adam's birthday dinner, Keith's
happy hour birthday, Laura's birthday, my birthday party on the 16th of
April (with 55 people, after racing the Clean Air 5K that morning). Yes,
it surpassed the beach graduation party to be my largest one ever. :-)
There were Tim's birthday, Rabbi Rachel's graduation, Heather's birthday /
summer solstice, Marita's birthday / pre-triathlon, Melissa's new job /
housewarming, Brian's birthday fete, and English Mike's flatwarming bash.
Thank you all for the invitations!
I made it for the first time to the beaches of Delaware when I visited
my Aunt & Uncle at their new home in Bethany Beach. I took a beach (NOT
shore) trip in July, rollerblading for the 1st time in two years, through
my Sea Girt (where I later went in the water), Spring Lake, Belmar, Avon,
Bradley Beach, Ocean Grove, and Asbury Park, NJ. Now that it's early
September, my favorite time to go (the water temp is warmer than early
July, and it's not crowded at all), I want to get there again. Let me
know if you want to join me!
I've been keeping up with the blood donations and somewhat with
weight-lifting (not at the same time!). Blood supplies are pretty low
now, as you might know, but they love my O+ blood & my veins (and because
of this I once received the most unusual compliment!). Just yesterday I
found I've been accepted in Who's Who in Finance and Business. You too
can buy a copy for the low low price of only $340... yet I apparently can
get you a discount of up to $90! Oh, but don't forget $23.95 each for
shipping! I think I'll photocopy my page from the library's copy. :-)
Good luck with the various moves: Seth to France (then no, then yes
again), Rachel to Baltimore, Elena to somewhere in Pennsylvania, Heidi
back away to the midwest, Carrie to Seattle, Wild Child Michelle to
Virginia or so, Christian to NC (I think), Dara back to the northeast,
M-Gray & Sir Tristan back to the northeast. And, congratulations to
various engagement, weddings, and births: Heather, Audrey, Cathy; Jamie,
Alex, Heidi, Jen Vo; Brennie, Miriam & Paul, Todd & Carrie, Lisabelle &
Dan. And of course, anyone I foolishly forgot to mention (and if I did,
please tell me!).
So there, Dmitri, I now have one more than you with this #16. Got to
watch out for them dead Russian composers who abstractly but emphatically
attack the oppressive regime though; we may find some hidden scores yet,
and no one likes a public reprimand from the government!
Coming up in the next update, whenever that may be: results for
captaining the co-ed team for Philadelphia Distance Run half-marathon, my
first distance race in almost 3 years (I've been doing step intervals at
the famous Philadelphia Museum of Art's "Rocky Steps" (3/4 mile from home)
instead of speedwork to be kind to my ankle). Then, if it goes well, a
fall Marathon, possibly Philly in November. This would mean modifying my
11th annual After-Thanksgiving Dinner & Caribbean Vacation, which I've
threatened to do for 2005 anyway... but you'll get details. I also hope
to visit some of the great restaurants that popped up in my neighborhood:
Italian, Thai, Mediterranean, Thai, and more.
Thank you all for reading! Now go follow-up with a phone call
(215-xxx-xxxx), email (x@x.x), or visit (xxxx Arch St #xxx,
Philadelphia 191xx-xxxx)! I hope to hear from and see ALL of you, and
wish you all the best.
Sincerely,
You can in part blame George for this, my latest life update. Were it
not for his return from Kazakhstan, Trish would not have thrown the party.
Had the party not happened, Jacquie & Don (with Ashley) would not have
asked me about anything exciting going on in my life. Not that these life
updates are that exciting (to you, perhaps!), though I do leave out most
of the boring parts!
It's also a minor tribute to Marissa. She's the one always whining
about how these are sometimes in verse. ;-) Well Miss Marissa, I planned
to rhyme this one too, but hadn't the time. So, I'll give you credit for
that... although it wasn't you taking up so much of my time preventing me
from rhyming... you never call, you never write (oh wait... you DO call
sometimes. Oops!). I need to jab you though now that your Phoenix (and
that of Thuan... who moved there from here, and of Heather D) has
overtaken my Philly this week as 5th most populous city in the country.
This life update starts (after the previous two paragraphs) last summer
-- September 1, 2005 -- so since it's already this summer, allow me to
fill ya in. In September I
Thu 12.SEP.1996
Well I figured I would fill all of you in again with my
bi-annual report of my life (or something like that). This is
"volume 3" or whatever you wish to call it (behind my back). If
you would like the 1st two, I cannot give it to you since in the
infinite wisdom of NIU computing, my email dated through May 1996
was purged, so if any of you have either or both of them, please
email it to me. I thought I would give you pieces from various
times during the past several months. I hope you are enjoying
this time of year. This email ALSO serves a dual purpose as a
request for correspondence from you!
[deleted]
Be safe & have fun,
Kev.
Well this was going to be some fancy and elaborate account,
replete with rhyme and puns and everything. But-- that will have
to wait some indeterminate amount of time. Anyway,
This past semester went okay. In terms of my graduate career
thus far, it wasn't too exciting in terms of classes. However,
the clinical work went very well! I conducted many intakes and
had two clients for the semester. They both have continued into
the current semester, both making progress, and am about to
terminate with one of them because therapy met her goals.
I only have to work 10 hours per week on my assistantship instead
of 20 since the fellowship I received is from August to May 97.
That gave me a little time to get started on anxiety/panic
studies, which is hopefully where my thesis will take me
(studying them, not having them!).
[deleted]
As Always,
Kevin Eric Gruenfeld
06.OCT.1997 (Mon)
When last we left our fearless, courageous hero, he was left
mourning in the evening for Sadie, the automobile which was so
good to him and he so good to it, until they had that little
disagreement and it decided to crash. What will become of him
and his grief? Will he ever be able to function as a mere mortal
again? Fortunately, the insurance check helped him get over his
woe, being a good thing since there was little time for grieving
with all the work that needed completion!
K.E.G.
[deleted]
Indeed it has been many moons since last your humble
narrator spun his tales. Ne'er shall you fear, for there is much
to be told, as the moon above continues waxing (or waning, or
anything in between depending upon when you are finally getting
around to read this).
(home)
[deleted]
Operations Manager
National Analysts, Inc.
[deleted]
Kevin E. Gruenfeld
[1999, Feb 01]
My Life Update #7,
(In verse) sincerely, Kevin.
To weave our tale, but ne'er you fear.
It has been going on for some time now as you may know it
And this here 7th part will thus allow me to you show it
So gather 'round, my dear."
When warmer weather filled the air.
'Twas summertime, mid-year, I say, in nineteen and ninety-eight,
He had just started at a job and this he considered great.
It was, he thought, quite fair."
Throughout this lengthy, festive task
If I skip around and this tale seems it is desultory,
It's just because there's much to tell, these details of the journey,
So in its spirits, bask."
The sixth (in August?), finally,
After-Thanksgiving-Dinner-And-Caribbean-Vacation
Was a success (the fourth) and was the other celebration.
Were you there you'd agree!"
Involved a nice bonus, don't sob!
A positive 6-month review left Kevin pleased and jesting,
Increased responsibilities led to his first Pre-Testing:
'It's done,' he said, 'no prob'.'"
Which avoids being invective
And he would tell if not for your narrator's verbosity
(Make sure you use for your car the right oil viscosity).
He'll now his OWN tale, give.
This daunting task was no small feat!
New computer with (for composing) electronic piano:
Yamaha Clavinova CLP300, when, O
Will I have time, my sweet?
Was not easy, I must declar'.
It disassembles, though. I must assure you it was no myth:
I DID travel throughout New Jersey and Pennsylvania with
A piano-- in my car!
One of the better, I presume
Had rolled down white socks, hair-tail, jams that fit from jr high
school,
Walkman and headphones with eighties tunes (hey, one had to be cool!),
On my shoulder box-boom.
Sun/moon temporary tattoo,
Old sneakers added to an "80's dude" was rad and gnarly,
No neon... yet rounding out was a painter's cap of Pepsi
From 1982.
A chance to help and volunteer
Delivering hot meals to those with AIDS the day of Christmas,
Next winter I'll consider a vacation on the isthmus
(It will be cold, I fear).
Was the AIDS Walk, which made me sore.
Nearly $300 was raised in Philadelphia
(I don't advise you all, my friends, to buy a car called Kia)
Good cause, this walk, was for.
(Despite the fact no Kurds eat whey)
To me, for writing part of the AIDS Encyclopedia,
(Inscribed, no less, by my editor on this print media):
Three hundred bucks as pay!
How to hem pants, and I discerned
The intricacies of this craft which, added to my knowledge,
Brings to three the list of things that I did since leaving
college--
(Of sewing skills I earned).
(I take it so I don't pollute):
Goethe, Poe, Burgess, Christie, Williams, Doyle, Nabakov, White,
Rostand, Darwin. For my quest for improvement and knowledge plight
It sure does contribute!
Ballroom Dance (tango, merengue,
Rumba, swing, cha-cha, fox-trot, waltz), First Aid/CPR (makes
sense),
Commercial Voice Overs. Soon to start is Streetwise Self-Defense
And Aikido (oy vay!).
(Keep having them, I do implore):
Labor Day weekend beach house, Halloween, Independence Day,
Housewarming, football, beach birthday, Super Bowl, New Year's
(hooray!),
Bachelor party, and more!
Helped to my endeavors pursue,
To Dani for being my partner learning Ballroom Dancing,
To Chrissy Lynn, for trav'ling down, furniture-delivering--
(She knows a cow says, "Moo.")
(I assure no impugnities),
Thanks to Craig "Duck" for my work as stage crew at The Brick
Playhouse
And lunch at unique restaurants, rarely leading to a grouse.
We'll continue this, please.
Newlyweds: Felicitations!
Heidi/David, Scott/Kathy, Gail/Mike had all said, "Marry us!"
Why must I choose the hardest one to rhyme amongst various
Of the salutations?
Many years without a meeting,
To Mr. Adam, Sarah, Annette, Janelson, Rachel, Ness,
I must admit: This poem is fun to write, but, ach, I digress;
Proceed with your reading.
Through work a few times keeping me
Involved at kick-off meetings, plus training interviewers down
In Orlando as well as more pre-testing right here in town.
It gets rather busy!
Spanish-learning, and, yes, running
(But NOT barefoot on pavement anymore), stairclimbing, plus weight,
Biking, and since it's in my regimen, stretching (which I hate),
And Philly-exploring!
Or visit so I can see ya:
xxxxx x x #210 (I do intone),
PA 191xx-xx25, or telephone:
215 area,
There are sev'ral ways to reach me!
Now xxx@xxxx.EDU is fine,
Or call at work xxx-xx37 (direct line)
It's in Center City.
You shall receive (I first must send!)
But don't you fret this hiatus is just one temporary
And though it takes up time writing is a task voluntary,
I will be back, my friend!
Thoughts of not writing will be quelled,
So you should correspond with me! I wish you the best in kind
In all you do. May what you're looking for, find. Yours truly,
signed,
Kevin E. Gruenfeld.
1999 Oct 31
Welcome to the 8th installment of "Kev's Life Update,"
otherwise titled "How I try to make my life exciting in some way
all the while learning new things and having new experiences (and
old experiences too), concurrently trying to enrich and enliven
the lives of my friends (those receiving this email (though some
of those that have not received it are friends too (they just
don't have email))) and make this world a better, happier, more
content and satisfying place both as a whole and also within
each person!" I'm not sure which title to use; your vote (and
additional title submissions for this epic saga without a name)
are welcome. :-) Way long time ago, it was the beginning of
March of this year. Now it is the end of October (ironically,
still also of this year). Here is what happened in between to me
in some undefined order (define the order-- accurately-- and you
win a prize!):
Kevin E. Gruenfeld
Philadelphia
1999.OCT.31
#9 From Kev, commencing on 1999 November 01.
As per the Reverend's King of Hearts, I'll continue until I
come to the end, then stop. This is a long one. Bist ahf ain
fus?
number nine, number nine:
Granted in this case ourselves refers only to me, just one, in
Orlando,
Yet sometimes the telling of the story gets in the way of
standard grammar; but I mustn't get too tangential right in the
intro,
Such as recounting the tale I read while in Quebec by Harriet
Beecher Stowe,
Still, the research taking me to Orlando 3 times has ended with
a bang (I hope the same effect holds, T.S., for your show),
And I returned a few days later, having enjoyed sampling
plantains and the warm weather, but relieved to be back where
there is not a bad taste avec l'eau,
Though I didn't complain (too loudly) for I gaman shiro.
Or seeking the aid of a psychological clinician,
It's because I've had a lot of theatre exposure and shortly
after returning from Orlando worked for the first time as stage
manager and the first time I landed a theatre paying position.
And I continued to help out there, at The Brick Playhouse on
South Street in Philly, landing in March another paying job as
sound technician
(though actually helping as stage crew) and again in April and
June putting me in a good position.
How's THAT for something I was wishin'?
Or another pressing and yet somehow related question to be
asked is why did I wake up at 3:45 AM to just on a airplane sit?
Well, it's because I happened to be SCUBA diving in Cozumel
(way down in) Mexico in mid-February (11th to 14th) on my first
real vacation in about 2 & 1/2 years and making 6 dives seemed to
be the best thing for which I saw fit!
During the exploring through the open water and caverns, not
once, though amidst huge (3-foot) grouper, a Splendid Toadfish,
crab, a stringray, fire coral, queen angelfish, lobster,
barracuda, and actually touching fish, was I bit!
I do have photos of the trip (and Shara N!) and even a
videotape of one of the dives, although for my underwater photos
the color came out rather blue because of the way the sea is lit,
And while there I had a tangerine as big as a grapefruit
because you know of course I could not dare to eat a peach (with
its pit)!
And while there I also had conch meat, conch soup (what befell
your conch, Piggy?), real churros (only 10 pesos), homemade
(actually boat-made) guacamole, tortilla soup, Yucatan lime soup,
and even a hamburger, this last of which actually had a slice of
ham on top...I suppose they take their German translations quite
literally... else I suppose in their eyes it wouldn't be legit.
And also while there I coerced someone from our dive center to
sing karaoke the night before I left and ended up singing myself
to Bob Marley and Elvis Presley (no comments from you: Stinky J,
Kah S, Heidi C) since I wouldn't be called a hypocrite.
And returned with several onyx items, such as candlesticks,
coasters, and checkers to go with the chess set, as well as
Kahlua for only $7 a liter (but only 1... such is the customs
limit).
And now, the computer will notate on the screen everything the
piano transmits and all I have to do on the piano is play!
I also officially started my new exercise program and then for
the first time since about 1993 I used my modem (hooray!),
Although granted I had Internet access at work, but now I can
access it another way.
Also, I went swing dancing for the first time (lessons
notwithstanding) and enjoyed (hi Kristin F and Heidi H and Mike
P) enough to return four months later and after asking will you
won't you will you won't you join our dance, I will take some of
you with me next time, if I may.
But before the dancing that evening, I was able to fiddle
around at a piano factory nearby on their $107,000 Bosendorfer
91-key grand piano (but didn't celebrate with any Ginjoshu Sake).
Then, late in the month, as some of you remember our mega-hit
of snow leaving the city in disarray,
I took it upon myself, feeling particularly masochistic, dare I
say,
To head to the center of city, making use of the office
closings, to take some nice photos, some of which I will add to
those adorning my walls and look forward to any comments you have
on them (though not formally as in a survey),
That perhaps, upon the request already made, I can make
reprints to give them away,
Though granted if photos I will purvey,
I, of course, will, as included in the request, receive some
pay,
Although reading further you will find it would not have been
wise of me to add more photos to the walls just yet since in this
apartment I did not stay,
Come May.
Or, to be more inclusive, between and including the 20th and
24th when out I flew
Not to Peru
Or Kathmandu,
Out instead visiting three (if you count DeKalb) cities (and
shooting some great photos) of Pittsburgh and Chicago (the latter
of which for some time it was my quest to pursue),
Where I met up with Scott K (after nine years of absence), who
Took me around town for a cajun chicken sammich at Primanti's
where they put the fries & sorta cole slaw right on it (quite a
chew)!
And then off to Chi-town for some Ollie's custard, Pagliai's &
their beer nuggets, Thai Pavilion, Chicago style Polish hot dogs,
and a great birthday supper (on my birthday, too!)
At Rosita's with the crew
Of Monster-Dave S, Je T'aime H, Jeff M (and Trish), and our
sassy waitress Vicki, the latter of whom, when she brought out
fried ice-cream for me (my surprise), also brought out seven
other waitresses in Spanish waitress outfits to surround and sing
to me happy birthday, and my reply was spoken, as I fleetingly
looked at the burning candle in the dessert, that now I don't
even have to bother making a wish anymore(!), but Miss Vicki did
not forsake us, as we each sipped on our respective brew,
Asking if I needed anything else despite all the gratification
and satisfaction in me this all did imbue,
To which I replied and requested some more of those cute
waitresses to return for me to woo,
And witnessing one coming back to see that I asked for her and
quickly ducking back away as I am sure her face must have started
turning a red hue
While we finished up laughing hard for hours before it was
time to say adieu
At least for that day, since I then went to downtown of the
Windy City to (again) sample deep dish pizza at the place where
it all started, the original Pizzeria Uno at Ohio & Wabash (and
realizing, just now, that it probably would have been easier to
simply write this in the form of a haiku)
And visiting Buckingham Fountain, the Hancock Observatory, and
the Sears' Tower, and playing Ms. Pac-Man at the bus terminal
getting a 99,740 score demolishing the previous high on that
machine, it's true,
The other players on the machine hadn't a clue.
And as the plane took off and it's altitude grew,
To Monster-Dave, for the rides and the lodging, much thanks to
you.
Making it even easier for those to visit and stay over with
all my extra space when (requestfully) I implore.
And the higher rent I can endure
Since from work I am but two blocks times four
And barely 15 minutes from door to door,
So to walk it is not a chore,
And furthermore,
Being in "the center of everything" makes it easier to
find whatever one wishes, from a Philadelphia tour
With all its folklore,
To a paramour,
Though a visit to me will bring naught a bore
But more likely a roar
For sure!
Although this stanza really has nothing to do with that and
the rhyme was just a fortunate happenstance...
I was a course marshal for the US Pro Bike Race in June,
cheering for the U.S. Postal Service team, albeit with the
absence of Lance,
(Since he was training for the Tour de France),
Wearing my radioactive green MARSHAL shirt, having been
necessitated to wake at 6 AM that day leaving me for a little
while in a trance,
But also watching attentive as the racers climbed the Manayunk
Wall (cyclists & Philly people will know), finding out what
happens when a racer needs to go to the bathroom DURING the race,
and meeting the mayor of this fair town when I took my eyes off
the race and saw him nearby when I looked askance,
And also meeting the president of stamps.com, and furthermore
getting into the restricted hospitality tents of USPS (Hi Allen &
Syb) and stamps.com, all nice grants!
Then finally I escorted the wife and 7-week old baby of the
winner of the men's race to the winner's circle (I happened to be
near them, by chance)
And walked away with a tough sunburn and exhaustion (but not
needing any transplants),
The shirt, and gifts from the USPS tent as souvenirs, which
primed me to get my new bike (thanks Shane Z and Anik D &
Francois G), a Trek 7200, a hybrid like yours, Nance,
As you all continue listening to my raves and rants!
But didn't at the dinner serve any kale
Nor any quail,
Or snail,
Though nevertheless it was a success; I would not fail!
Having it take nearly three days to do the cooking, I would
not bale!
(As my blood pressure is 110/70 and pulse is 56, I am not
frail!),
And also spent, unrelated, time reading Malory's tale
Of the grail,
But also hosted my 8th annual big birthday bash & apartment
warming come as you AREN'T party (and thank you to those who
followed "the rules") with even more twists than the June 1999
party (and thank you Michelle P for the spanking on my tail),
And also attended Heidi's Monty Python party, end of kappa
blowout, both of Gary S's retirement parties, George W's and Kat
& Ed B's new year's parties, birthday parties, the provocative
question pollyanna trade at the theatre, and many others
including Adine's surprise birthday cruise all set to sail,
But a cinematographer's party it did not entail,
And though I missed some, including the wedding of Anik D &
Francois G in Quebec, my absence does not my warm wishes curtail.
With the deaths in February and March of Donna D, Uncle Eddie,
Claire R's Mom, and Ginny D's Dad, I fear,
But also brought the engagements of Cuz & Dorit G and Kah S &
Andy W with all the cheer,
Plus, somewhat unrelated, yet also bringing applause, was
traveling afar to see Porgy & Bess (Hi Kristin F, Theresa O &
Ray; next time Ginny!), since it was not near,
But I was away, seeing that aforementioned opera just one line
up, at the time of the stairclimbing contest, so for that I must
wait until next year,
Furthermore, I once again witnessed a performance of (Edgar
Allen &) The Poettes, in Philadelphia, right here,
And was able, for Habitat For Humanity, with my expertise in
survey research, along with Tim S and Jill W, to volunteer.
As I methodically plan out my next birthday bash
Offering to those of you who visit, then or anytime, plenty of
room if you wish to crash,
Just don't you try anything rash!
And I tried Moroccan food with Ginny D, Burmese & Greek &
other types with Craig C, a buffalo burger in New Hope with
Brenda H & Dianne B & Justina, and plantains in Orlando (though
one of my favorite flavors of ice cream is pistach'),
Extending any apologies due, from this poem, to you, Mr. Nash.
But you are dead and thus can't compete,
And when my friends visit then my friends I will greet
And encourage them despite the heat,
Especially to the droogs I've just seen after up to ten
years, I do entreat,
Provided I am not being indiscreet!
To Kirsten-poo P, Mike P, Scott K, among the elite
And to Sarita F, Melanie W, Johnny D, Wally Y, Mike L, Dawn J,
Lisa Bocca, Brian Mojo, Andy V, and thanks to d-d-d-Gary S for
retiring and thus inducing us all to meet!
Philadelphia
2000 July 1
#10
2001 31 Jan (Wed)
Kevin E. Gruenfeld
Philadelphia, 2001 Jan 31
[2001 Sep 1]
(In verse) sincerely, Kevin.
Teeth chat'ring almost uncontrolled.
From the frozen depths waking up in Albany, New York with
Thanks, Stinky, then to Quebec: le Carnaval Bonhomme (no myth!).
It's lure on me was sold.
With French I was not impeded
In this world's biggest winter carnival, with a night parade,
Temps 22-C below and "sweaters" for the horns, portrayed
Some warmth! I entreated.
Had skating by torchlight unique.
Here more imposing than St. Patrick's; The ice castle quite grand:
Forty feet high, one ten across and the sculptures (snow, not sand!)
Would succeed a critique.
(Heated and strong) and poutine, too,
avec Anik, Marguerite, et Sylvie before rejoining
Le Carnaval for soapbox derbies and snow races using
each team in a canoe!
To Montreal! Then quite a whack
Of snow heading back home (after time with Kat, Ciaran, and Ed)
In the worst driving conditions I've had, wanting warmth instead:
I wished home I was back.
Being the time of the megahit of snow giving some people their hellish
commute home on a Monday, I can assure such readers that it was bad
indeed, as I was scared doing even under 20mph on an Interstate
highway.
In fact, it took me 6.5 hours just to get to Albany, which should have
taken 3.5 hours.
And I thank you, Stinky, for letting me stay over on such short notice
in Albany.
I should have listened to you, Kat, and stayed the extra time IN
Montreal, rather than driving away from it!
With Catherine, in town, Be Bim Bop
Is a Korean dish not served at The Johnson House of course!
Near the Meditation class I took (just one, but no remorse),
Plus Jitterbug, on top!
And Laura. Pro bike race in Tren-
Ton- course marshals (Philly- Courtney) with Jacquie & Don (then shown
Me leading the Conga Line at the March wedding of Wax-Sohn)
Who've seen the River Seine
(And can celebrate with White-Zin)
Doing 66 miles for the Freedom Valley Bike Ride,
Plus with Susan the Ride For Hope, two hours through, he decried,
Hurricane Allison!
My new road bike (makes me jolly)
From Adam, riding with the Philly Bike Club and Stacey with
Team Tania conquering the Manayunk Wall, certainly pith,
Fueled from a bialy.
Else I may become nervous wrecked
With Shari and the group, I met a winner of the Boston
Marathon / editor of Runner's World, and tips he tossed in
Made sense; we're not perplexed.
Though admittedly, that formidable Manayunk Wall is one of the most
famous city-climbs in the world for cycling!
And the volleyball with Jeff & Adam shouldn't be forsaken.
Nor my occasional in-line skating,
And the draw of these opportunities brought out the editor of Men's
Fitness (which rated Philly the fattest city in 2000, then the 3rd fattest
in 2001, and I get this magazine), who I met.
Many of which I've taken parts:
The operas Werther at Academy of Music, great seats
(Thanks to Catherine) and Carmen at The Mann with Ginny, both treats,
Their music tops the charts.
Saw Rocky outdoors, we would gloat
Since it played at OUR art museum, we were interactive!
Then Stormed The Bastille with Jacquie, Don, Jen, somewhat didactive:
Before, French could not vote.
Led me to some good positions
Such as Hoagie Day, Summer Mummer's Parade, Fourth of July
Ceremony at Independence Hall, with those none too shy,
Declared suppositions.
I helped again and was discreet,
And saw Edgar Allen & The Poettes, and the birthday bash
Of Ben Franklin Bridge, Danielle, Mike P's party, Dip's new job
splash.
Each one for me a treat.
Joined. With some neighbors we did fly
A picnic: Adam, Igor, Jeff, Kieran, Michelle, after my
Ninth annual Come As You Aren't Birthday Party (no lie),
I served my homemade pie.
And the Kappa picnic, organized by Scott & Kathy and hosted by Jacquie
& Don.
Neither will I fail to mention that I was able to attend my first bris
(well, technically my second, but this time as an observer not a
participant!) thanks to Adine and Ben.
And, before I forget, a long-term (in-person!) hello to Sarah B!
But let us conclude the story.
My parents, a trip they could use.
To celebrate their 35th anniversary I sent
Them to Alaska (that is, including airfare back, I meant).
Soon I will hear their news.
(It's life! ((just a figure of speech))
At Sea Girt. But, back in Philly took photos from City Hall
Tower (ate cuisines: Cuban, Persian, French Crepes, sushi, Thai, all).
The view it will enthrall.
The fun that night was unsurpassed.
My best to Teri-Resa, Rosa-G, and for the first time
In ten years to Chrissy (from nursery school!), Siwei, and more prime
Friends who I had amassed.
For the Non-Mechanic, alas,
Those two seminars didn't help when my alternator died,
Although I got in CPR/AED re-certified.
I learned them both en masse.
At a time not inopportune,
But the week before is a Century Ride: 100 miles
In one day on bike, for me, both certainly tough trials
Amongst the big platoon.
Block Party now planned with great care,
A Sandy Hook beach trip for this weekend, and more help at Brick
Playhouse for the renowned avant-garde Fringe Festival, my pick.
I'll be at all foursquare.
My thoughts in print I felt compelled
To write, and thus number eleven has now come to an end,
(Boring parts excluded!) and now write to me I recommend,
Kevin E. Gruenfeld.
[2002 Mar 31]
Kevin E. Gruenfeld
Philadelphia, 2002 March 31
#13 From Kev, commencing on 2002 April 01
Continuing the tradition of my "life updates" indeed.
For those who don't know, I send out these emails of my life, from
1995 was planted the seed,
This time commencing on 2002 April 01, through now, is a long
story, but enjoy it I plead.
So, go ahead, proceed.
Such as hearing our Philadelphia Orchestra (one of the best in the
world) in their new home, the Kimmel Center, with Chris G, for a Beethoven
& Wagner evening, without much syncopation,
Or visiting the Mutter Museum Of Medical Oddities And Artifacts
with Allison, Helene, Igor, and Kieran, which included the skull
collection, perhaps one of which was Haitian,
And joining Bugles Across America, a fine organization
That plays Taps at funerals for veterans (I played "Taps" on
September 11th for an American Legion Post here in Philly, one way to
serve my nation),
Then watching me on channel 6 for a TV interview after climbing
(cycling) up the infamous Manayunk Wall, for which I have the videotape
(thanks Jen L & Mom) which we watched at Jen's celebration.
I finally took my Circle Line 3-hour boat tour of the island of
Manhattan and visited the Empire State Building observatory (with great
photos!) on my latest trip to NYC (though unfortunately missed cuz &
Dorit), taking the train after driving up to Trenton Rail Station.
I was actually accepted into the 2003 publication of Who's Who In
America... but I need to borrow a copy from one of you because our library
here (the first in America, by the way) in Philly doesn't have it,
although they have about all the other Who's Who books (go figure, someone
should start an investigation),
And it didn't take too much convincing to sing Karaoke to "Love
Shack" with Ben & Ellie (with Jeff S, Kieran, Dave, and Jen L as
witnesses) even though the last time for me was in a bar way down in
Mexico, I assure you such a thing was not such an aberration.
Starting with just the two of us and now having 159 members (and
post-run dinners & brunches), many of us during our group runs doing the
"loop,"
Since running is a good way to stay fit, which is important,
according to the Surgeon General, (one of whom was Philly's C. Everett
Koop).
And, running with such a group is a good motivator, for me to
achieve my three running goals this season of placing in the top 10% in a
race, placing in my division, and completing my first marathon, the last
of which I needed plenty of time to recup-
Erate, after doing Steamtown Marathon in Scranton PA on 13 Oct in
3:18:28, #196 of 1,354 finishers, before that on 28 Sep the Riverside NJ
Run From Drugs 5K with Chris G, Jen L, and Nicole H, winning in male 20-29
with 4th place overall (though 3 seconds behind #3 and a trophy!) at
19:36, and before that the Philadelphia Distance Run 1/2 Marathon on 15
Sep placing #658 out of 7,011 with 1:35:32 (with a bunch of friends from
the group) followed by a complete fast starting that evening (and I
recommend against such crazy things), but which was preceded by Helen's
pre-race pasta party, which did not include soup.
To Ben F and his Casino Night fundraiser, a switch from the past
two years, but I knew he would not fail;
To Jen Vi and her many Philly Young Pro's events including one
where we all were able to try many a Mediterranean cocktail;
To many in Stacey's cycling group, who reached their own goals
while helping me to reach my own cycling goal #2 of the season, cycling
1,000 miles this season in almost any weather (though not hail),
And conquering the Philadelphia Marathon by Jenny S, Karen, Brian
S, Sean, Laks, Steve G, Sue W, Becca S (and others I'm sure), hearing at
times an occasional wail,
I knew for each their training would not curtail,
Plus for my psych friends their dissertation and PhD related
accomplishments (or individual steps) to Monster Dave, Todd, Jeff M, Jenny
S, Dara L, and Miriam (and Igor too, though outside of psych), right on
the nail,
And now all those above will have an interesting tale.
With the deaths of too many, including my old friend Mike Lacey,
for why, it is hard to explain,
Yet the circle of life did maintain
With several births including those to Heidi & David, Jacquie &
Don, and Stan & Michelle, and impending to Nicole D (and I hope I didn't
miss anyone), to their family, they would all gain
Since watching the little ones are sure to entertain,
And to the wedding of M-Gray & Sir Tristan (and engagements to
Stu-Maaann, Michelle T & Paul, Ben & Ellie), a toast of champagne.
With stick-shift, very much the same as the Saturn SL2 I had before
the Sentra, the differences were not too far,
Then sold the Sentra a few months later, and though I paid more for
the Saturn than I received for the Sentra, getting the lump sum months
later gave me the illusion that I had all this money, how bizarre,
Though not enough of course to buy a Renoir,
Or to take a long trip to Cote d'Ivoire.
Nevertheless, I decided to put 10% to charity, a few hundred
dollars in the "jar."
The interesting thing is that I don't miss the money at all &
encourage y'all to try something like this to raise the bar!
In April, My 10th Annual Birthday Party (30 people this year,
Right after the 20:49 5K Race For Clean Air with Em, Laura B, Kier-
An, Shari, Dara L, Karen, and Leah R), then in June the First Union
Pro Bike Races in Trenton & Philly, I again went to volunteer
Where I met several pro's while admiring their gear,
Then in July the Independence Day Fireworks (from the roof of
Kieran's building, to the celebration we were quite near),
(as well as those in Alexandria with my cousin Adam and other
family down on the frontier)
And, shortly after, Storming The Bastille with Jen L, where the
public Ms. Antoinette did not endear,
Following, in September, the aforementioned Philadelphia Distance
Run, the Scenic Schuylkill Century bike ride (my cycling goal #1, doing
115 miles again this year; with Jen L, Sue W, Ralph & Ann, Shara), and
that same day the Logan Square Block Party, where they did indeed have
beer,
With much more than that at the black-tie Barrymore Awards
(Philly's version of the Tony Award's in October) with Carolyn, offering
plenty of opportunities to cheer,
Continuing to the end of the month, with the Logan Square Halloween
Party and the famous: Henri David's 34th Halloween Ball (again as a
reformed flasher, with Maggie as a cigar-cigarette girl, a 1st place to
Becca F as a Calder sculpture, and over 1,000 others) with plenty to
revere,
And yes, Henri David did appear to appear
As a chandelier,
Culminating, yesterday, with my 8th Annual After Thanksgiving
Dinner & Caribbean Vacation (with a total of 30 & 1/2 people (the 1/2
being 6 month old Ashley, (which still puts this as my 2nd largest party
by a 1/2 (with thanks to Natalia & Jen Vi for helping (and thanks to
everyone for helping to raise $40.77 for charity))))), which as usual to
put on I had to persevere.
I do implore),
At Sandy Hook with Brenda C, then with Maggie to Belmar in
September and Seaside Heights in October (leaving December as the only
month that I've never been in the ocean... though that will happen for
sure),
Which left plenty of time for Ben & Ellie's bowling & Italian
Bistro night, Jen L & Karen's birthday party, Em & Dev's housewarming,
Karen's farewell dinner, the neighborhood's 2nd annual picnic, the NA
picnic, Susan B's smoothie birthday party, the Marathon parties of Brian S
and Sean, continuing on Logan Square Town Watch, and much more,
Such as finally seeing a show at the Prince Music Theatre, with
Catherine, where I've never been before,
And the many shows at The Brick, which I adore,
Though I did not make it to many swing dances at Penn's Landing,
which is too bad since they are not going on anymore
(Well, at least, until next summer of course), but furthermore,
There are other locations and events galore
To explore,
Such as the Young Friends of the Philly Opera, and its great dinner
at Cibucan, though without any soup de jour,
It still certainly was not hard to endure.
I can (and this is one of the reasons why I recounted all that)
have my life return to some semblance of normalcy yet, since although it
kept me busy, I do not need to rue
Or feel blue,
Since this means, my friends, that now I can spend more time with
you,
My crew,
And those for whom I hadn't seen in a while, some for many years,
Beth L, Tammy, John H, Jason, Audrey, Jessica, and others (all technically
due
To
Mike L), Jeff V, Frisky-Prisky, Mistress-Theresa, and Wil (all at
Crystal, thanks Wil), Suky, and Cassandra, friends true,
And thus pursue
An additional goal of finally starting re-learning French, so tell
me if of this language you have a clue,
(To conveniently insert some French phrases to help with my
motivation) since much of it to me will still be new,
And pester me to compose those swing songs too!
But if you want previous installments of this life update thing
(including the 7th, 9th, and 11th in verse, plus the fun 5th), let me
know; I've kept them all since I begun,
So I will conclude by telling that you can reach me at home at
1-215-xxx-xxxx or at work at 1-215-xxx-xxxx (direct line) or
1-800-xxx-xxxx, and use x@x.x for email, or if for phone and
email service you've got none,
You can also visit (or write) me at xxxx Arch St #xxx, Philadelphia
PA 191xx-xxxx and we can even go out for a run,
Or listen to some music by Henry Mancini (he composed the theme
from Peter Gunn),
And thus I close; I've had my fun!
Sincerely, Kevin E. Gruenfeld, Philadelphia, 2002 December 1.
Get A KLU (Kev's Life Update) #14
Kevin E. Gruenfeld
215-xxx-xxxx
x@x.x
xxxx Arch St #xxx
Phila PA 191xx-xxxx
01 October 2003
Get A KLU #15 - in verse, 01 oct 2003 - 01 dec 2004
A KLU
(Kev's Life Up-
Date) installment
#15, Com-
mencing 1 October
2003, in
this tempora-
ry format.
for my
friends.
ning sea-
son kept up
as usual
with the AIDS Walk 10-
K race in October,
3rd out of 104,
39:33 the time.
That was to be my last race (for now),
as I was injured in April. Since I
was still able to ride (and lift, which I start-
ed the previous July), I set a lofty
2500 mile goal for 2004 (I
met my 2003 goal of 1500
miles on November 2, ending November
17: 1526.2).
In June, I also did a warm-up
ride with Jelly Belly pro team
and again was a course mar-
shal for the pro races
(and met some pro rid-
ers) in Phila-
delphia
and Tren-
ton.
day, 3rd
November
met with a con-
tact from Philadel-
phia City Council-
man Michael Nutter, after
seeing Philly Runners Seth and
me in a Philadelphia Dai-
ly News article by PR Jenice,
itself from the club's weekly email I send.
The results were the Fairmount Park Safety meetings,
involving the city's managing director, po-
lice commissioner, Fairmount Park director, and other
high-ups. Philly Runners also volunteered at last year's and
this year's Philly Marathon (over 20 of us racing!) in
November, Broad Street Run in May, and Philly Distance Run in Septem-
ber, all with our pre-race pasta party (no low-carb diets!) and
post-race
celebration (thanks for hosting Joyce, Laura G, English Mike), plus
staffing a
water stop at Penn Relays in April. We again proved that "the runs
are never
cancelled" with our regular Saturday morning run on January 10
(9 days past our "Hangover Run, my 1st run after taking December
off), where we had twice as many runners (12) as degrees (6-F)! With
15mph winds, the "real feel" was -12! Two weeks lat-
er was just a balmy 17-F... but snowing! Weather
extremes did not hit us again until our regular
Tuesday evening run on September 28 through
Hurricane Jeanne (it was more like a duathlon,
with water at times up to our lower calves)!
March was Philly Runners' 2nd anni-
versary! Our custom coolmax shirts
arrived after. Our message board
was up in May. And, we con-
tinued post-run eating/
drinking at Bishop's
Collar plus ice-
cream and hot
cocoa
trips.
Friday
October
1at the age
of 95 my
Grandmother died. If those
of you have tried my Vien-
nese Linzertorte or Blueberry
Heidelberen, these were her reci-
pes. If you've ever listened to Beethoven,
Mozart, Johann Strauss (junior OR senior), you
have an idea of the musical her-
itage of Vienna, the city
she was from. My Grandparents fled
in the 1930s what
was becoming Nazi
Germany, leaving
their bank accounts,
but preserv-
ing their
lives.
bid fond
farewells to
George, then Seth (who
is back... already!)
and to Alie & Hel-
ene (even though Helene has
not left yet)! Then were the visits
by Catherine, Dawn-dear, and Alie. In
between were Miriam & Paul's wedding,
cousin Leah's graduation, Rachel S
& Dave's apartment warming, and Wendy & An-
dy's housewarming and musical extravaganza
(with me on guitar, strangely enough). Interspersed with them
were the birthday parties/gatherings: Uncle Sol's 85th,
Meg's dinner (39), Laura B (25), Don's 40th
surprise, Francisco & Leida's surprise, Adam's dinner (31),
Dad's 60th, Keith's dinner, Maria-Paula's surprise, Jen & Helene's
dinner (followed by an outdoor viewing of Rocky on the art museum
steps
with Rachel), Danielle's party for Trish, Chase's party for Craig,
Susan B's dinner,
and Igor's dinner (30). Of course, mention must be made for the other
parties. In
2003 were the Logan Square Spooky Gathering Halloween Party (also in
2004 with the first neighborhood parade!) and the Henri David party
(the
largest private Halloween party in the country) with Danielle, Miriam,
Jeff
S, and Keith. We did not attend that one in 2004, but I ventured
to Heather's Halloween party instead (I wasn't too creative this
year, as I reprised a past costume, wearing all blue with blue face
paint;
I did add the cardboard sign "PLEASE - No Flash Photography. Thank
You"
and went as Picasso's Blue Period). Adam had an Ea-
gles playoff party and a pot luck dinner/poker night,
Jeff S had two parties including a billiards par-
ty, I took Rachel to Laura's "copious" din-
ner party, Albert co-hosted a big par-
ty (with PRs Sari, Erica, and
Seth in attendance), the annual
Logan Square Block Party was in
September, and Heather had
her most excellent sol-
stice celebration
in June that Rach-
el and I
attend-
ed.
were plen-
ty music/
theatre goings-
on, too. The Brick Play-
house had their yearly Night
Of 1,000 Plays (I'm fran-
tically for 2005 writ-
ing a few), and hosted English Mike's
plays. ComedySportz was fun. The Curtis
Institute recitals (one of the best con-
servatories in the world, a few blocks
from me) were amazing as always,
and the Mann Center performance,
Opera In The (Rittenhouse)
Square, and the Young Friends of
the Philly Opera
events were en-
tertaining
as al-
ways.
Liber-
ty Bell moved
to it's new home
and I was there tak-
ing photos of the move!
Philly Runners had a soc-
cer game, our annual dinner,
Ian's WHYY vol-
unteering, the Schuylkill River cruise, and
the Schuylkill River Development Corpo-
ration focus groups. Restaurant Week in Janu-
ary led to Brasserie Perrier, Founders, and
Le Bar Lyonnais, returning to the latter for our
2nd Formal Dinner. Winter events included ice-skat-
ing and the first skiing I've done in well over a decade or-
ganized by Seth. The new Schuylkill River Park path extension was of-
ficially lit by Mayor Street and other high-up city officials,
and the Free The River Park advocacy group to fight CSX
to keep access was formed. We again Stormed The Bastille in the sum-
mer (yes, we ate "cake" Don). I now coordinate Logan Square
Town Watch, and recruited Jeff S (and maybe soon Raymond
and Lisa). I reported for jury duty, but
this time was not selected. As part of Bugles
Across America, I played Taps at mil-
itary funerals twice this year so
far. My blood donations went on as
usual. They love my O-pos-
itive blood (O plus, Alie?),
and piercing my veins is
easy as I'm "a
phlebotomist's
dream" accord-
ing to
one!
April,
Francisco
& Leida threw
a birthday dinner
for me, the first time some-
one ELSE hosted ME for my
birthday in many years! The next
day was my 12th annual Big Birth-
day Bash with 38 & 1/2 peo-
ple (easily my 2nd largest party)!
My 9th annual After Thanksgiving Dinner
& Caribbean Vacation fed 31 hun-
gry people last year, and we just wrapped up my 10th. I went
to tbe beach three times this year. The first was with Rachel to Sea-
side Heights plus overnight camping & then kayaking. The second
was with Susan B & Stephanie to Spring Lake. The third was alone
to Spring Lake/Belmar which included my 10-mile 6-town boardwalk run
to
Asbury Park's Stone Pony & back! I've been doing computer consulting
since late June but am still looking for research-related positions.
For
those of you who did not know, Rachel & I parted amicably
after nearly five months (thank you for the set-up Susan B). Last
year October, based on my restaurant recommendation,
Phyllis visited Square On Square and gave it a great re-
view, mentioning me twice, in the South Philly Review.
Of course, this press did not compare to when Jenny
became the big winner on Wheel Of Fortune!
Still, read the Philadelphia Style mag-
azine March issue for my inter-
view on running. Not sure though that
it compares to when Matt did
the MRI on me
for his research and
my brain over-
loaded the
comput-
er!
I have
15, like
you Dmitri
But there's more to come...
at some future date. In
the meantime, call (215-
xxx-xx-
xx), write, and vis-
it! Best wishes
to you all.
Love, Kev-
in!
KEV'S LIFE UPDATE #16, 01.dec.2004 - 01.sep.2005
Kevin E. Gruenfeld
Get a KLU (Kev's Life Update) #17: 2005 Sep 01 - 2006 July 01