Wow, what a weekend. I originally planned to go to Seattle last weekend to see Bob Mould perform at the Crocodile Cafe. I was excited to see him live, as I have never gotten the chance previously. I then realized he was playing as part of the Bent Festival, the queer music festival. And of course it was Pride weekend! Duh! So I headed to Seattle on Friday, after a grueling week on the asphalt conducting hose test for every truck on my department. I got in late friday evening but that didn't stop me and J.D. from going to The Cuff for a beer. The next day we relaxed and met up with Steve for lunch. That evening me, Vic, J.D. and Ian all headed to the Bob Mould show. I have never before felt the way I did when he opened on his 12 string guitar with "Wishing Well" from his solo album Workbook. I was literally vibrating with a kind of Joy. This music made a big impact on my life when I first heard it. Bob has always been my guitar hero, from the days of punk rock with Husker Du to his power rock of Sugar and his solo stuff. Bob came out during that time and gave me someone gay to look up to. His song "Along The Way" really struck a chord in my when I realized he was talking about coming out to people and their reactions.He played an amazing acoustic set, then to my surprise he switched to electric. Songs that I thought I'd never get to hear live were played, both Sugar and Husker Du. He played two encores, maybe a bit much for those who aren't rabid fans like me.

The next day I got up at an ungodly early time (about 7:00) and Ian and I headed to the Canadian border. We were bound for "Mission Impossible", a meeting of Mini Cooper owners. We arrived just in time and the minis were assembled for a huge group photo. Here are some.

After that we were given a map and were off to Craig's, the only mini parts shop in the west. Unfortunately when we got to the ferry crossing, the ferry's ramp was busted and we all had to turn around and try and 'follow the leader' as we journeyed off the map on a new route to Craig's. We made it and all the Minis (about 40 or so) parked on the lawn to show off their engines and interiors. After touring the shop and buying parts we headed to the pub for food and then on to home. The exciting part for me was getting to drive the Mini (a right hand driver) back to Seattle. It was great fun. Thanks Ian!

Ian's Mini

A very hot Mini with Nitrous!

We arrived home tired, about 7:00 p.m. But we knew we couldn't resist going to The Cuff for post Pride festivities. Luckily Paul was working one of the gates and we slipped in avoiding any crowds or cover charge. EVERYONE was there. And in full party mode. I saw so many friends and friendly faces. The beer was cold and the sun was still shining. My good friends immediately removed my shirt. I never thought I would feel comfortable with my shirt off in public, but these guys have sure changed me (for the better). Steve snapped a picture of me with J.D. and Ian. I have known these guys just a little over 2 months, but they have made me feel so welcome in their lives. Here's a pic of us after a few beers ;-).

Well, I head back to Seattle on the 11th and then down the coast on the 16th for Lazy Bear Weekend. Hope to see you there!