"Viva La Vulva!"

It's got a word, that based on past posts, you'd probably never hear come out of my mouth, let alone have my fingers type on a keyboard (without feeling filthy). Yet, a couple of friends recently introduced me to a show from FX that, as most things seem to be lately, I'm the last one on planet Earth to hear about it. None the less, I want to encourage anyone who is unaware that this show exists, to check it out. It's almost like The Office, yet it revolves around one of my favorite places... a bar. It's crude, and pushes the limits of socially accepted boundaries, which I can more than appreciate. If you haven't checked it out, do so. You're missing out. And I would hate for anyone else to be in the same boat that I was.

It's Always Sunny In Philadelphia

So as of late I have been giving thought a lot to the idea of moving. Out of the comfort zone that I have known my entire life. It's been a rollercoaster of ups and downs to say the least. An evolutionary road of self discovery, and it has come that a new chapter is coming into fruition. The biggest contender on my list for the city change... Chicago. It seems to be my first choice. Whether it is the friends that I have made while on holiday there, and those I've known to move there already... Or maybe the fact that I keep going back in the first place and never wanting to leave. I won't lie, New York is also a city for which both my heart and mind yearn to explore. I'm forever in search of things to keep my knowledge increasing, my experiences flourishing, and successes happening. I can see both in my future, but after seeing this new Master's in Branding program available in NY at the School of Visual Arts I am really taking into account what it is that I really want out of life. Upon graduation, and throughout the last 5 months, having not landed the industry gig just yet, a sense of reflection has come over me. Not in any way a bad thing, but an honest awakening to what my goals are. What aspirations I have for myself, and more importantly, for my future. I will undoubtedly miss the family, friends, and foundation I have established in San Francisco, but I know that I will inevitabley return to the 'City by the Bay' at some point in my life. I mean this IS my first home, and damnit... I LOVE THIS CITY!

A friend, and former teacher in college once told me something as we left from a mountain retreat that comes to mind right now... 'In order to say hello again, you must first say goodbye'.

It is essential for me to grow as an individual, professional, and a genuine lover of life, that I make a move... sooner rather than later. I would not be able to accept that one day, as I'm on my death bed, looking back, and wondering why I never gave it a shot. I settled, in one area, my entire life. That WILL NOT be the case with this wicked ride. And to add to my appreaciation for my current residence, I need to be without it to truely respect and acknowledge it.

What the future holds... as cliche as it sounds it rings loud and clear... that only time will tell.

This has been the most personal and more 'serious' post I've had on this blog, and I sincerely appreciate those who take the time to read it.

So another teammate and I ventured to create a logo for the Spikes III team that we're on. We had a couple revisions, but with his drawing ability, and my design knowledge of what he calls, "new media" we put it together. So here we have the new logo for the Spikes III. Now it's time to order jerseys!

The fund raising season is upon us! Mark your calendars, and get ready for the Spikes to host a Beer Bust in the SOMA district of San Francisco. The details? No worries, I've got you covered.

WHO: The San Francisco Spikes
WHAT: Good times, Hot soccer players (and company of course), Free food, and All-You-Can-Drink Beer for ONLY $10
WHERE: The Eagle Tavern (398 12th Street @ Harrison)
WHEN: February 28th, 2010 // 3pm-6pm
WHY: Because everyone likes like eye candy, free things, and partying for a good cause.

This is the flyer I created for the event, and I expect to see everyone there. No questions asked. You don't have to stay all day, or spend lots of $$ (although it would be appreciated for the team of course). It's a good time... and I don't have friends who don't love good times! If you're on Facebook (and who isn't?) then check out the event page, and COME OUT!

Spikes Facebook Event Page // Spikes Website

A couple quick things design related that I think are worth checking out...

Books/Annuals like Communication Arts, and others that bring to the masses the best in design are a great reference, tool, and look into what's being done. I've mentioned the Dieline before for package design, but I want to point out their new release. It's called "Box, Bottle, Bag", and I can't wait for my copy.

Another collateral design blog entry that I think is worth checking out is the following link from YouTheDesigner. A good friend, and fantastic designer, Cortney Cassidy posted this link off of her Facebook, and I love it. Check out the 83 Crazy/Beautiful designs. Well worth peruising over it.

So there you have it. Some design stuff for you to indulge in. Soak it up, and get to designing something phenomenal!

I got more on the Spikes coming up, so keep your eyes peeled!!

So, as it turns out, after a little bit of perseverance, some life changing events, and with a new mindset in 2010... I have joined the SF Spikes. After playing soccer for 8 years in my youth, and wishing that I had never given it up for the past decade, I was determined to get back into the game. And so it has come to fruition that I went to an open practice last weekend, and, well, I'm HOOKED. Welcome back to the days of old. And if you are wondering...yes, it is a gay soccer team in San Francisco... shocking I know! It's a great group of guys, and we are starting a third team within the organization.

With practice starting next week, I've been conversing with the coach (who seems to know me all too well already) about a name for this third incarnation of the Spikes. I'm taking in all ideas, as we are going to embark on creating a logo/emblem for our jerseys, banner, etc. Any ideas? Suggestions? I won't share just yet what I'm working on in my head, but NOTHING is out of bounds on this one. Once created, I'll be sure to keep it posted. It'll be good... would you expect any less?!

Until then, I will be keeping up on all the other projects in the works, like volunteering for Pride 2010 and their marketing, my involvement in an HIV vaccine study, freelance projects, the ever illusive job hunt for something in my industry... and of course all the other craziness that will ensue on the journey of the CKS 2010 Comeback Tour!

Keep your eyes peeled my friends, it's only just begun... and that's a promise!

Most everyone knows that I have spent the larger part of the last 8 years working in the Hospitality Industry. It has been one of the most interesting, fulfilling, tiring, frustrating, eye-opening, shocking, boring, draining, stressful, rewarding, and cultural experiences I could ever have been a part of. So much so that with all the guests, their complaints and stories, trannies, hookers, fights, coworker drama, corporate on goings, bums, fraud, and all around insanity of human behavior, I could write a pretty damn entertaining book (or series).


With this small bit being said, it was a new manager who has come into the Front Office department that decided to share a little something with the staff. As managers we try to keep the employee morale up, and this was a nice little introduction into his style and sense of humor. I share this with everyone because if you have never worked a front desk, you might finally understand what it's like after reading this. If you have worked the Front Desk in a hotel before, then this will be like music to your ears. After reading it I thought that finally, someone else had put into words how it is. Enjoy!

-------------------

I am a Front Desk Agent

I have advanced degrees in Accounting, Public Relations, Marketing, Business, Computer Science, Civil Engineering, and Swahili. I can also read minds.

Of course I have the reservation that you booked six years ago even though you don't have the confirmation number and you think it was made under a name that starts with "S".

It is completely my fault that the blizzard shut down the airport and you have to sleep in a warm king-size bed while 5000 of your co-travellers are sleeping in benches at the airport. I am sorry.

It is not a problem for me to give you seven connecting, non-smoking, poolside suites with two king beds in each, four rollaways, 3 cribs, and yes, I can install a wet bar. I know it is my fault that we do not have a helicopter landing pad.

I am a Front Desk Agent. I am expected to speak all languages fluently. It is obvious to me that when you booked your reservation for Friday on the weekend we're sold out that you really meant Saturday. My company has entrusted me with all financial information and decisions, and yes, I am lying to you when I say we have no more rooms available. It is not a problem for me to quickly construct several more guest rooms. THIS time I will not forget the helicopter landing pad. And it is my fault that everyone wanted to stay here. I should have known you were coming in, even though you had no reservation. After all, you stay at our brand of hotel all the time, 300 nights a year, and this is only the first time you've ever been to our city.

I am a front desk agent. I am quite capable of checking three people in, two people out, taking five reservations, answering fifteen incoming calls, delivering six bath towels to room 625, plunging the toilet in room 101, and restocking the supply of pool towels, all at the same time. Yes, I will be glad to call the van driver and tell him to drive over all the cars stuck in traffic because you've been waiting at the airport for 15 minutes and you've got jet lag.

I am a front desk agent, an operator, a bellhop, houseman, guest service representative, housekeeper, sales coordinator, information specialist, entertainment critic, restauranteur, stock broker, referee, janitor, computer technician, plumber, ice-breaker, postman, babysitter, dispatcher, laundry cleaner, lifeguard, electrician, ambassador, personal fitness trainer, fax expert, human jukebox, domestic abuse counselor, and verbal punching bag. Yes, I know room 112 is not answering their phone. And of course I have their travel itinerary so I know exactly where they went when they left here 9 hours ago, and what their cell phone number is.

I always know where to find the best vegetarian-kosher-Mongolian-barbecue restaurants. I know exactly what to see and do in this city in fifteen minutes without spending any money and without getting caught in traffic. I take personal blame for airline food, traffic jams, rental car flat tires, and the nation's economy.

I realize that you meant to book your reservation here. People often confuse us with the Galaxy Delight Motel, Antarctica. Of course I can "fit you in" and yes, you may have the special $1 rate because you are affiliated with the Hoboken Accounting and Bagel Club.

I am expected to smile, empathize, sympathize, console, condole, upsell, downsell (and know when to do which), perform, sing, dance, fix the printer, and tell your friends that you're here. And I know exactly where 613 Possum Trot Lane is in the Way Out There subdivision that they just built last week.

After all, I AM a Front Desk Agent!

-------------------

http://www.impulsenine.com/homepage/pages/humor/frontdesk.html

So when I find new things, I naturally want to share them with others... ok, well maybe not everyone (or everything)...

Given that I have been trying to take my health into consideration more in 2010 (isn't everyone?!), I was introduced to the Activate Drinks by a coworker and good friend (you know who you are... Washington D.C.). Now I am fond of the packaging, but more intrigued with the concept and how that plays into the execution of the packaging, branding, and actual product overall.
The tagline struck me (not in the best of ways either), 'It's Hid in the Lid'. I get that you are trying to rhyme, clever. It does make sense to the product, but sounds like something you mention when talking about a new engine and doesn't roll off the tongue like I want it to [insert crude joke here]. It's the concept for this round of vitamin waters that was a bit more interesting to me. According to Activate, normally the vitamins deteriorate when they sit in water. Thus, they keep them separate in the cap of the drink... giving you 'control' as to put them into it. You twist the top, and it's a release of vitamin goodness. See the picture below for packaging, etc.
In a sick little way I'll admit it, they got me. It worked, ok, I give in. I like your product... but will I make the conscious effort to buy it? That's the question. Kudos on the concept, let's see how it plays out in the fitness 'craze' that has been playing out with society as of late. Maybe we'll see people, like usual purchasing a product to put forth the image of being healthy... hello! There's more to it than wearing track pants, carrying around a vitamin water and a sweat towel, but I'm sure we all already knew that.

Starting a New Year breeds reflection...obviously. Well, I've done some reflective thinking about the English language. For those who know me, I'd assume you recall that there are a number of words that I am not a fan of in this worldwide dialect. The list is ever growing, and I'm sure that I've missed some along the way... which I will elaborate on at a later date once we have compiled more. Some may not be 100% G-rated, so my apologies... Shall we begin?

Moist - one, if not the worst word I can think of. Never a good use for this, even when talking about cupcakes, or a slice of birthday cake.

Orifice - It might share the top spot with "moist" and when you combine the two... it's appalling.

Milpitas - So it's a town with the Great Mall, who-ho! Let's face it. This sounds like an STD that you would be embarrassed to admit, even to your physician.

Schmere - so some like it on bagels, but frankly, this word is gross. I don't want "schmere" on anything I am going to ingest.

Wharf - Living in San Francisco... working in a hotel... I have to direct people to the Fisherman's Wharf everyday. And anytime I say it, I want to throw up a little. It sounds bad, and can be a physical struggle to get out.... everytime.

Ointment - I feel like 'oinking' when saying this. It's a strain to say, and whenever you have to use it, it's usually not a good sign. Maybe you should get some in case your "Milpitas" starts to flare up again.

Chaffing - never good. end of story. you know it's not a good thing, and never will be. Plus the sound of saying it isn't pleasant.

Areola - seriosuly. say it out loud. It may roll nicely with the vowels but sounds like nothing more than a pasta noodle.

Vulva - It's not a car, and something I want nothing to do with. Plus saying it is terrible. Try it.

So there it begins. Some of the words that I am not fond of in the English language. Please, do share with me any that you can think of holding a special place in your heart (You may just help me in adding to this list). Eventually I'll share the combined words that should never be placed together... those can become down right offensive.

Hopefully this year, a majority of these words will disappear from mine... and everyone else's vocabulary.

Here's to hoping!

I was going through old emails in my Yahoo! account (because it's time to clear things out!), and I pleasantly came across this one from The Dieline that I thought would be worth checking out... especially for all those who are into package design. It is something I could look at ALL day long... which has been called 'sickening' by others in my life. None the less, I find it inspiring to see the work of others in such an amazing and vast industry. Even though this is just beverages, the branding, identity and personality that can be given to a product just through the way in which it is packaged is phenomenal.

I'm interested to see what others think about these, and which are your favorite...?

----------
http://www.thedieline.com/blog/2009/09/50-favorite-beverage-designs.html