I'm Just Full of .... Ummm .... Questions

[mrdreamjeans]

A couple of nights ago there was a news story regarding Houston’s SPCA. They’ve instituted a policy which is generating some controversy. Folks who want to drop off their unwanted pets, must now schedule an appointment and speak with a counselor when bringing their animals into the shelter. The counselor visits with the owners and animals, accesses the chances that the animal will be adopted, determines the owners’ reasons for wanting to leave their animals behind; the counselor then discusses options, including a likelihood that the pet will be euthanized.

The SPCA has a 43% adoption rate, but wants people to understand how their decisions affect the lives of their pets. Other centers in Houston still take in strays, no questions asked and some of them are “no-kill” centers. What do you think of the Houston SPCA’s policy? After hearing the options, about 9% of the people are taking their pets back home.

As most of my friends know, I love to travel. Decades of living out of a suitcase hasn’t soured me on taking trips or touring. I’ve always looked at my tours in Broadway musicals as a really fine way to visit my favorite cities and friends, whilst being paid to do what I love the most. A few minutes ago, a commercial aired for a new television series set in New Orleans. I realized that New Orleans, a city that once held great appeal for me, is no longer a preferred destination. I’m not interested in visiting any time soon.

I’ve played the Saenger Theatre in the Big Easy many times over the years and if the schedule had held, “Evita” would have been playing there when Hurricane Katrina struck the city. My question - How do you feel about visiting New Orleans? Do you have plans to attend any of the French Quarter’s annual events? Does the city remain a destination for you?

Most of my life I’ve been comfortable with being alone. I don’t mind eating alone in a restaurant, especially if I have a good book. I’d prefer to attend a stage show with a date or friend, but I’m at ease with seeing the entertainment by myself. I particularly have an aversion to going out to a bar in a pack. I'm solo. It works better.

I usually hit a club, assess the fun quotient in minutes, stay if there is dancing or there’s someone who captures my attention. But if a club allows smoking (still possible in Texas) or the whole point of being there is drinking, I’m usually gone within minutes ... No S&M (Stand and Model) bars for me. I don’t require the usual hand props to enjoy myself. Also, I won’t stay at a bar or restaurant at all if I don’t have safe, convenient parking. Maybe it’s my age, but my car or truck is more important to me than being seen in a trendy place:)

Yet, I’m funny about movies. I don’t usually go unless I have a companion with me. My nephews are away this weekend preparing for the beginning of classes at their respective colleges and my folks aren’t interested in seeing “Stardust” which I really want to see. So, my questions are: Are you comfortable going places alone or do you prefer a group? Are you like me ... comfortable in doing some things alone, but have other activities you prefer to do with friends?

I know, I know ... I’m just FULL of ...... umm ..... questions:)