May 17, 1995 - Wednesday - Vista Way

     I've finally made it to Disney World against all of my
pessimistic expectations. CJ returned my call the very next day last
Thursday telling me she had found my paperwork. I thanked her
profusely but still had a bit of fear that someone had screwed up and
signed me up for the fall. I decided to just wait things out and hold
my breath until I got up here to see whether or not everything would
work out.

     Meanwhile I kept insisting to Kristen that I was so pissed at
Disney altogether for not taking an interest in my problem that I was
ready not to even bother showing up at all. In part this was true,
just in case, but I didn't bother to ever tell her that they called
me back. I was very prepared to get a job at Kmart or Walmart, or
maybe even both, and just bike over there all of the time. I figured
I could make and save up some pretty impressive bucks by doing so,
and meet some local girls to mess around with. Kristen was pretty
freaked out by the whole facade until finally I gave in and told her
at about midnight just before I'd be leaving in the morning for
Orlando. She was mad at me while at the same time glad I was going
which made it fun to hear her try to spit out what she felt.

     I had been asking her how she feels about me over the last few
days before we came up here. I wanted to know exactly where she
stands so I could understand and treat her better instead of so
sarcastically. I also wanted to know what it was like for her to be
around me the entire time after breaking up, unlike Shar¡ and I which
apparently was much harder being apart. She ended up breaking down
and telling me that she definitely still loves me, something which I
knew already. I actually told her that I love her, too, but in the
sense that I care about her very strongly as a best friend and
someone to talk with regardless of who is having problems.

     I headed out of Tampa with Father just after dropping Chrissy
off at the bus stop in the morning. It only took us about an hour and
a half which left us a little while to explore Lake Buena Vista
before we were allowed to check in to the apartments. I soon found
myself in a very nice clubhouse praying as a woman searched through a
file for my name, AND SHE FOUND IT!!! One woman actually said she
knew my name already because she had received two papers on me! That
means they DID get them both and someone was really screwing up on
me. I signed my paperwork and then headed into another room to get my
room information. This country boy ahead of me asked me when my
seminars were and I immediately thought that he was a pretty nice
guy. When I received my room agreement I notice that the guy was in
my room so I walked up to him and said, "Hello roommate!" and we
introduced ourselves.

     The guy, Matt, is from North Carolina, home of the Tar Heels,
and comes from a town of thirty-five thousand called Morganton near
Ashville. I ended up beating him to the room where I met Heath
Mitchell from the Texas flatlands. Heath goes to Texas Tech and is a
lifeguard as is his roommate, another Matt. I thought that was pretty
cool figuring they'd be be bringing over quite a few girls, and when
they turned out to be jerks, Attentive Dan would be the want they
want. Clint, from Ball State in Ohio, picked up on the fact last
night after seeing me at work. He asked me if I'm the silent yet
deadly type and I strongly agreed that I am. Clint vows to have me
changed by the end of the summer so that the girls will be coming to
me rather than me going after them. We'll see.

     I picked a bedroom and as soon as Matt showed up I had him room
with me. I figured it would be easy to get along with a fellow hick
especially when it comes to country music. He also offered to sleep
out on the couch any time I wanted to bring a girl over for which I
was very grateful and will also respect towards him. The last
roommate's name is Keven and he turns out to go to the University of
Florida with me. That was weird because Rick promised not to do that
but oh well. He's the biggest nerd of the bunch but he's still pretty
cool. Everybody here is.

     Kristen and I planned to meet up at four just before our meeting
but I went to an early one and thus was free for the rest of the day.
The second one was at five but I decided to check and see if she'd be
there anyway. If not I was going to be pretty pissed and not worry
about her until she found me. I checked both meeting places and just
as I did, her mom's car drove by and they noticed me. They made me
get in the car and took me back to Kristen's apartment. They had just
gone to the grocery store and had taken Jen, Kristen's roommate from
Bowling Green, Ohio. Jen is perhaps the most gorgeous girl I have met
so far and I have already let Kristen know it She's been a little
lacking on the personality side but claims that's just because she's
been really tired after the plane trip and all.

     Kristen's physical roommate is Sally from Alabama who is in
Delta Zeta which I have already dubbed "DiZzy" or maybe even "DitZy".
She has an awesome southern accent but seemed like a total bitch. I
ended up meeting all of the other roommates and then we all decided
to go out to some bars to hang out. There were free drinks for ladies
at the Baja at Crossroads so everyone over twenty-one wanted to go
there while we all went to Johnny's. Kristen, Jen and I decided to
head back to the apartment early because Kristen hadn't eaten yet and
there was nothing really for us to do, especially with Kristen
around. On the way back some girls at a party on the third floor were
yelling hello out the window. Some guys behind us yelled back but the
girls said they weren't talking to them and then pointed at me! I
felt special, for a second.

     The others stepped back by the room and Sally stopped at he
counter and stared at Kristen for a second and I told Kristen how sad
Sally looks now that we left her as the only person under twenty-one!
When Kristen realized that we did leave her she freaked out and
became very apologetic. I knew that wasn't really on Sally's mind but
it did cause her to suddenly open up with us and we had an awesome
time talking and hanging out for the next couple of hours. She's a TV
freak and knows all kinds of trivia. She also practically has every
episode of Beavis and Butthead memorized which I have never seen a
girl do before. I guess her sorority doesn't quite take up all of her
time. She's also strongly for the death penalty and we agreed
perfectly on a lot of other extremist ideas. Kristen was shocked that
our personalities matched so exactly and of course I loved it. After
Sally went to bed, Kristen and I actually messed around for a little
while in front of an open window, and then I had Kristen shave my
neck in the bathroom.

     I headed home after that hoping the guys would have girls over
and I wasn't disappointed. They were all sitting around the table
playing drinking games when I walked in, except for Keven who was
watching. I sat down for a few minutes and this one girl kept talking
top me trying to find out what I had done and was asking if it would
have been more fun if she was there. I thought she, another Jennifer,
was pretty good looking and so was her friend, Lara (Clara without
the C, as she apparently introduced herself earlier). I soon found
myself sitting on the countertop overlooking there game and chugged a
Michelob Light before joining in. I placed myself very stealthily
right in between Lara and Jennifer as we started playing a variety of
card games headed by Clint.

     Fortunately the two buzzing girls at my side didn't know how to
play poker so I got to "teach" them. There was a third girl there
named Kendra from New Mexico whom the guys like but I think is
disgusting. The opinions of Lara are completely reversed because I
love her and they all think she's a fucking bitch. I helped Jennifer
win a hand of poker just before getting twenty-one in a game of the
same name myself.

     Jennifer had been talking about this racist joke her dad had
told her when she told him she had two black roommates but didn't
want to tell it because she didn't know anyone that well yet, etc.
Clint was constantly begging her to tell it and then I tried. Two
minutes later she agreed but said we'd have to go outside and we did.
Lara came too because she was mad that Jennifer wouldn't even tell
her, her own roommate. I looked back at the desperate bunch of guys
and apologized for stealing their women so quickly, for Kendra had
already gone home. Jennifer told us the classic bowling balls as
n..... eggs joke. She then kept asking if I'd think badly of her now
and I said definitely not, and that I respect her more for being
truthful now rather than later.

     After we had headed back in, Clint was asking us how long we
have known each other and I put my arm around her and said for years
and she smiled and agreed. I later admitted that I'd only known her
for ten minutes and he (they) were upset that she told me and none of
them. Tough break guys. We then played a betting game and needed some
coins. Everyone was scrounging for pennies and I just happen to have
a baggie full from when I was cleaning up at home so I got a big
cheer from everyone when I dumped them on the table.

     As the beer ran out, the guys started getting hungry and were
making some nasty shit. I asked the girls if they wanted some ice
cream and they didn't know how that would be after so much alcohol. I
said that was Ok and I would just wait and they both yelled that I
didn't need to. Jennifer offered to help me eat some and Lara offered
to fix it for me! I guess that's partially why I don't see her as big
a bitch as the others. I heard she had offered Heath the front seat
earlier since he was so tall but the reneged saying that she was a
girl and was in a skirt so she got the front. He hated that a lot and
I think he's holding a little bit of a grudge.

     We were talking about middle names at one point and Jennifer
said to guess hers and I said Ann, and I was right! Yet another
brownie point. We then started making designs with the pennies as we
talked with each other about ourselves. By this time I was alone with
the girls at the table and thought to myself that only I can come in,
steal all of the girls, and turn it into a sensuous (even nerdy)
intellectual talk. I soon really started falling in love as Jennifer
told me that she is studying biomedical technology at Texas A&M with
the intentions of becoming a dentist. She has to take the DAT soon
and has even suggested that I could maybe help her after telling her
my experiences with Kostas. Lara is from Wellington, North Carolina
and goes to the same school as Matt does. She wants to be a doctor
specializing in premature infants!!! I was surrounded by prosperous
people and thus had to brag about my own interest in joining the
medical field.

     After finishing up the ice cream we all took pictures together
and I made sure I was as close as possible to Jennifer as often as I
could be. They then headed home at about three and we all crashed for
a good long time. I was quite proud of my first day's accomplishments
and knew that this is going to be a fucking wild summer!

June 4, 1994 - Saturday - Nini meets my family....

I opened early this morning with Erin 2, Kristen, and Steve who
was already doing a track run but I helped him out anyway and only
found one lousy quarter. Mike O'Grady had come in early to see if
anybody would call in to try and put in some hours, but luck was
against him today. Kristen was complaining to Erin and me about why
the girls always get sent to wash the coaster while guys always get
to park patrol. I then said that girls are made to clean and they got
upset. I later started helping them clean the rails without them
having to ask to make up for my comment. We were talking about how
the guests never realize how much work it takes to keep the place in
order. I then said that women are the same way because they will
never notice when you do nice things for them, but do one little
thing bad and they won't shut up! It was funny.

I went on to make sure that I opened the door for the ladies and
also carried the ice chest for Kristen. Erin and I were talking to
Mario later at lunch and he said he was talking with some people who
said that men shouldn't automatically assume when getting into a car
that a woman wants the front seat just because it's easier for her to
get in. I said that I offer it to her to make her happy because it's
the best seat and they all agreed. Erin said that there's nothing
wrong with a little chivalry once in a while. I then said that I
wasn't opening the door for them this morning because I didn't think
they could get it, but because I was trying to kiss ass and they
laughed.

I started out working with Kristen on the unloading side and had
fun with her as usual. I still love how physical she will get when
you are messing with her. It's fun. We were talking about chest size
and so forth. I later sent Julie up to where Kristen was so she could
say hi and when she came back she talked and walked with me down to
the bumper cars. As we parted I suddenly looked up and saw Chrissy
and father laughing at me. They then walked around with me for a
little while. Chris came up once in plain clothes and handed me a
flier for his party and I felt special.

They told me that they had seen Nini in the Moroccan Palace and
asked her if she's seen Dan lately. She asked who, and then realized
they were talking about me and they said she got all excited and said
I had better come and see her. The fools told her that I had been
talking about her but wouldn't tell her what so she's probably
paranoid. They then had her call Kumba to see if I was working. I
wonder what she'll think of all this since I left a message with
someone to say hi to her just yesterday. Fools.

When Erin Wilcox first saw me today she gave me a big smile and
said hello. She asked if I had said hi to her while Melissa was on
the phone and I said yes. We joked around a little bit throughout the
day which was cool.

May 15, 1994 - Sunday - My eyes are blue again!!

Two days at Adventure Island and it seems like I'm as tan again
as I was after all of that time at the pool up in Gainesville. I just
hope the suddenness of it all doesn't lead to a bunch of peeling. it
was pretty packed today with tons of girls because it's the weekend.
I flirted with quite a few of them when I could. I finally got an
empty chaise lounge in front of the wave pool where all the action is
and watched some pretty hot girls laying in the shallow water. After
a while, one rolled over and was wiping a bunch of white stuff off of
her legs that looked like all of her sunscreen had bunched together.
I was soon lying in the water and saw this one woman looking over her
arm right at me. I know the trick because I do the same. She was
exactly what I picture Shar¡ to look like at forty if Shar¡ lives
that long. She had the same stretch marks on her hips and side, sun
dried skin, and kind of looked like her a lot. Her breasts seemed to
be shaped the same until she unhooked her top and showed off a lot of
them from the side. They were far firmer than Shar¡'s.

I then eventually noticed the whiteness on my legs, too. I
suddenly realized the faggots had repainted the pool's floor and
didn't bother to tell anyone that the oil paint wasn't yet dry.
Fuckers. I came every close to complaining to guest relations but the
line was long as I was leaving. I went back to my chair and was
rubbing the paint off as best I could when the big old lady who had
sat down in the chair next to mine started talking with me. She was
amazed by the simulation of a beach in a pool. This was her first
time here and I explained it to her. She lives in Safety Harbor and
was there with her daughter and her ten year old granddaughter. When she
asked and I told her I work over at Busch on the Kumba, she said her
granddaughter will love that because they had gone recently and loved
it, and she was indeed excited when she found out. She told me about
her hip problem and thought it was nice when I let her know that I
understood what she was talking about. That's when I let her know I
go to Gainesville and am trying to be a doctor.

She was saying once that she didn't know where her family went
off to and I joked that they saw she was doing fine on her own
talking to me so they ran away and she laughed about that. It only
goes to show that I can flirt with women of any age. She soon parted
and was quickly replaced by two hot and sexy youngsters. One soon
asked me if I knew what time it was and I laughed inside about the
joke that girls mean that as "I want to fuck you now!" They then ran
away but I stuck around hoping to talk to them and maybe run around
with them. They came back but started getting ready to leave. I
looked up at one with a smile in my eyes so I thought. The cuter girl
then told me that I have really pretty eyes and I laughed and said
thank you. She laughed back and said that she just thought she'd say
that and they took off. I left as well figuring that I should leave
while I was ahead.

I wondered if Chrissy and father had indeed gone to Busch and
thought about driving in and calling home to see if they had. I knew
that even if they had, I would never be able to find them unless I
paged them but that would take too much time especially if they were
on the Kumba. As I drove by the parking lot I swore I saw his car out
in the boonies under a tree and saw the extensions over the rear
tires that I only recently noticed when we packed the car for me to
come home from Gainesville. I decided to give it a try so I went
inside the park. I tried to walk the path they would go on if they
were walking out and I was highly relieved when I noticed the pair
walking towards me. That was awesome!

Father wasn't feeling well so I asked if they wanted something
from the employee line since I was there. After they had eaten, he
felt much better. We then went through the brewery tour and looked at
all of the animals and special exhibits and stores along the way. I
then got us into the exit of the Skyride. I had a pretty good time
and think they did, too.

I worked all day long yesterday and stayed on boardwalk for over
seven hours!!! I didn't get out of there until after eleven and was a
zombie when I got home. I did have some fun flirting early in the
day, though. I remembered from last year that getting water for
people will instantly be taken as a seriously friendly gesture. The
placed was packed so we had all kinds of people working in the sun. I
carried Kristen some water and she told me that she loves me forever
along with some other compliments. There was this seventeen year old
named Karen whom I had yet to meet. She is Ryan's new girlfriend so I
got her some water and she told me I saved her life and didn't shut
up for the rest of the day. That worked beautifully. She told me all
kinds of things which was pretty cool.

She even had to gum scrape later on boardwalk and was showing me
the cup of gum she had collected. I joked that she needs more colors
like purple and sent her on a quest. I suddenly stepped on gum and
complained so she seriously told me she;d scrape it off and actually
bent over to do so. That was fucking awesome!!! It turned out to be
purple and we laughed hard about that. I ran around with Erin some
during the day and also got water for this rather attractive girl in
the souvenir shop and made her very happy. I also ran into Jeanette,
this youngster who will be in Gainesville this fall whom I know from
last summer.

Mike and I ran up to Crown Colony for lunch and were flirting
with the girls in the opposite gondolas. Kelly came in while we were
eating and I talked with her and then started talking to her friend
when she left . I had hoped to impress Mike by meeting someone new.
It turns out that she goes to Gainesville which is cool. I remember
that she came in the same day I did to interview. When she found out
we work at Kumba she asked if we know Chris Saladino and I said yes.
I hadn't talked to him this summer yet but did as soon as I got back
and found out that the girl's name is Jennifer, for that was an
important fact that Mike and I laughed about overlooking.

May 9, 1994 - Monday - Smile, Sarah & mom visit

Today sucked. It didn't really suck, I just wasn't really in the
mood to deal with the people I had to deal with, and wasn't on the
break schedule to deal with those that I wanted so badly to talk to.
I was rather upset when Shannon arrived and barely said hi and gave
me a peace sign and then disappeared into nowhere. I was then
replaced on height stick and later saw her talking to the guy out
there. My horrible mind thus thinks she avoided me out there so she
wouldn't have to talk to me. The problem was compounded later when
she unpleasantly talked to me out on boardwalk and so I left. I was
later sitting out at the wall daydreaming about Kristen lying on top
of me naked this fall in Gainesville when suddenly Shannon walked by
with a big smile and waved. I couldn't believe how a simple smile
could cheer me up so much, and also realized how horrible it would
have been had I seen her just walking by. I did get to talk to her up
at booth later on with Ronnie there as well.

So I concentrated a little bit more on Kristen. We joke around
whenever I see her but can still talk seriously which is a problem
Laura and I never solved. Chris and I were unloading and talking
about the women when I told him there's someone I'd do and pointed
into the line. Shannon was in there sweeping and he laughed and said
to get in line. He then pointed at Kristen in the booth and said that
there is someone he'd like to see more of. I agreed and said it'll be
cool together up in Gainesville. He said that if he could reserve
her, he'd be up in Gainesville all of the time and I laughed.

I wandered around boardwalk for a while later on and noticed
some really nice looking chicks in both the photo shop (Angie but I
don't know that yet) who looks like Marcella and in the gift shop.
They kept looking at me every time I walked by so I hope to meet them
soon. I also had the extreme pleasure of finishing up the day at the
river rapids with Kelly and some guy who talked to me the entire
time. That wasn't too bad and was a change of pace.

Continuing yesterday's thoughts: I was working across from
Briana and kept talking to her for a long time. Every once in a while
something funny would happen and we'd have a good laugh. Once she got
sick because this older hispanic was wearing a tight body suit half
way up her ass. It was great! There were this black woman who was
having trouble sitting in the seat correctly, since it designed for
the ease of a two year old, and we were desperately trying to get the
idiot to hold her arms up long enough to get the harness down. Jamey
(Elvis) was on button and he started making dramatic hand gestures to
make us hurry up. Since his is one of the slowest people there, I
looked right at him and yelled all the way across to the back of the
coaster for him not to start getting an attitude. I thought it was
hilarious.

That was right up when I noticed father and Chrissy in line for
they had come and finally bought season passes. I chatted with them
for a little while and Chrissy gave me a big hug right on the
platform.

Later on, as I was returning from the wall, I looked into the
crowd at all of the girls as I usually do and I saw these two eyes
that my mind instantly recognized as Sarah's! The rest of her looked
different until she looked up at me and yelled my name and then we
hugged each other long and hard and she was saying some bullshit
about it being so long since she's seen me. Her hair is a lot shorter
now which is why I didn't notice her right away. She then introduced
me to her mother!, her brother's girlfriend, and her little brother.
That was cool to meet some of her family and all. She told me that he
had gone up to Kumba to look for me and will find out Friday if she
gets to work there. She then said to give her a call sometime this
week and we all parted. That was quite interesting.

Kristen told me today that she'll be living in a triple this
year in Broward. Three people in a box!!! I told her that sucks and
there won't be any privacy whatsoever. She agreed and even said that
she can't stand one of the girls very much. I almost told her that
it'll be cool as everybody finds a boyfriend and starts staying at
their rooms, but I didn't want to imply anything that I could soon
suggest that she do with me.

January 30, 1994 - Sunday - Rainy canoeing w/family

Be young, have fun, drink Pepsi. Reminds me of Shar¡. They had an awesome commercial during halftime of today's Superbowl XXVIII between Dallas and Buffalo. It showed a big dark research lab where two chimpanzees were given Pepsi and Coke respectively. They then said after months the monkey drinking Coke showed considerable advancements and showed him hitting colored pegs through a board with a rubber mallet. For the Pepsi drinking monkey, he couldn't be found and they showed an empty pen with smashed Pepsi cans. They suddenly cut to the Pepsi chimpanzee driving a big jeep on a beach with a load full of gorgeous bikini clad women! It was awesome. they completely made it look like a Coke commercial to begin with but I had already caught on and was hoping it would be something like that. It had to be the best commercial in the game.

I watched the game with Leigh Anne, Ed, Roswitha, and occasionally Jon. Only Leigh Anne and I wanted Dallas to win and my only reason is because I always root against the Bills. Well, the week started off good with an exciting thirty to thirteen win by the Cowboys! The halftime show was even country for one of the most publicized events of the year! That was cool, too.

Well, I just had sex with Leigh Anne for the second time today and then sent her on her merry way home. I wore a condom and thus got to come inside her for a change.

Saturday was her birthday and I pulled a very effective job of avoiding her almost entirely. We got in a fight on Friday so when my dad called Friday night and said they were coming up the next day, I completely urged them on. I was actually getting ready to call them just a few minutes after five but they did first. I never thought they'd come on a Saturday and was glad for the surprise. I also didn't introduce Leigh Anne to them and that rightfully pissed her off but I don't care. Why embarrass myself?

I woke up at ten Saturday and regretted waking up so late because I wanted to shower and all before my family got here. I knew that as soon as I got in the bathroom they would be here but nature called. Sure enough the phone rang and I had to hurry and go get them, passing that shower by. We talked for a little while and I gave Chrissy and Cathy the presents I had gotten for them at Target. They both really liked them. Cathy kept wanting really bad to go get her Barbie out of the car to put the new clothes I got her on it. They also really liked the clearance Christmas candy I got them. Everybody, even Father, wanted a hollow chocolate Santa Claus. Karen was also in the room and when she first walked in Chrissy asked quietly whose girlfriend that is because she is white. It was funny.

We then headed downstairs to play pool for s little while. We also checked out the table tennis stuff. Mother and Cathy found the piano and Mother remarked at how good it is, all in tune. Cathleen has gotten really good and can surprisingly play some songs pretty well. I was impressed. She also was playing table tennis with my parents when Chrissy and I would play pool. I was teaching Chrissy a few pool tricks that actually worked and she was grateful for. I unfortunately didn't take chalk down with me and that sucked. We then headed upstairs and I shared my leftovers with them for lunch. I made two servings of Spanish rice last night and gave everybody some to try and also cooked some pasta for Cathy. I had some black cherry ice cream Jello left that they ate some of as well.

It was dry Friday afternoon after sixth period and it started pouring and almost flooded the streets during the following hour. I had another class ninth period so I just went to Burger King for lunch instead of going home and getting all soaking wet. It hasn't really stopped raining since and it's late Sunday night right now! After lunch we headed to lake Wauburg which is run by the university and is about eight miles south. You can check out free canoes, sailboats, and paddle boats. Despite the rain, we checked out a canoe and Chrissy, Father, and I all headed out. I hadn't realized three people could go at once and that worked out well. Mother and Cathy stayed on the beach and enjoyed themselves. After we quickly gained our balance, we circled half of the entire lake's edge looking at the nature, especially for animals.

It started pouring once and we stopped under a tree for a while but soon headed on. It was really beautiful and I loved the feel of the rain sprinkling on my face and the swampy look it gave the area. The whole place really reminded me of Georgia. Once we had made it to the far side, we started hauling ass straight across the lake to the boat docks. It was lots of fun and we all had a pretty good time.

We then headed to Target and shopped for quite a while. The store's electricity went out once because of the storm. We then bought groceries and food for dinner back at the room.

I stayed up from twelve - 3:30 to 5 talking to Delisa and Aimee and we all three had an awesome time doing so!!!

October 10, 1993 - Sunday - Shari, My family visits

And alas a week has started off for the better! I was awaken after a somewhat sleepless night at 8:20 by Chrissy telling me they were on their way. I laid in bed a little while longer before heading downstairs to start four loads of laundry that desperately needed done. If my parents would have seen all of those dirty clothes, they would have freaked. I ended up timing the loads perfectly.

After everything was drying, I gave Shar¡ a call. She sounded excited to hear from me and we talked for quite a while about nothing much really. She did say that she ended up tearing up the old letter because it was old news and writing me a new one before mailing it on Thursday. It very much sounds like she never mailed me one in the first place... I was being kind of quite just because I wanted to hear her talk and she wanted me to talk as well instead of just agreeing with everything she was saying. I though about how I used to always do that with Kimmeth, mainly listen. We were discussing how often I should call and she said she'd like me to call every two to three days so she can hear my voice. She was also talking about my idea of her getting a phone card and how she might not be able to because she doesn't have a job and so on, like getting a credit card. I liked the fact that she at least thought about the idea and did come up with a very good excuse which impressed me.

She asked me once if I had gotten those pictures of us developed yet, and I said no. She was thinking that she should get a camera and take pictures of all the things she does and people she hangs out with so I can see them all. She also was saying that I should come down more often than I am planning on. She said once that her stomach hurts. I piped up saying it's not my fault trying to be suggestive and she started laughing!!! When I asked her what she thought was so funny about that, she wouldn't tell me, no matter how much I insisted. I don't know whether she was laughing at me, or the TV, or whatever but maybe I am the reason her stomach hurts... Towards the end of our talk she was asking me if I was sure that I didn't have anything to talk about, because I usually do when I call. I tried to make it clear that I just wanted to talk to her (yeah... are you pregnant?!?) while the rates are the lowest. She said that she just wanted to make sure that there isn't something I wanted to say that I'll regret not saying later. She mentioned the time I wanted to talk about the letter and we never did.

My dad called me from downstairs right about then which was great! My clothes had just finished drying and I had them all help me bring them upstairs and fold and hang them. I was very glad for the help. My dad talked to Jon in the living room while we did so and while I visited Cathy. I let them watch Groundhog Day as I fixed lunch and showed them everything wonderful I have done so far this year like my test grades in German culture. We then went shopping in town at Target and Albertson's. I was going to buy cord a card and cover it with big Barney sticker - something he'd recognize. Shar¡ already said that she didn't really like people sending money when she was talking about an Aunt of hers. I thought about doing so but wouldn't trust her not to use it for cigarettes. But I really wanted to get him something so she would remember me every tine he uses it. I found this really cool hard book that has Barney teaching colors and thought it was perfect. I used to love those when I was little and feel better getting him something educational rather than just another toy. Now she can think about me whenever she reads it to him if she does.

After getting groceries, we went back to the room and had turkey sandwiches before they left for home. They met Ed just before they left as well and he actually presented himself as somewhat intelligent because he kept his mouth shut for the most part.

Later on, Leigh Anne came over and talked a long time with me. She then was rooting around in the stuff on my computer and found the pictures I have. She then proceeded to look at every pornographic picture I have and was rather disgusted by a lot of them. I admired her persistence and swore I don't ever look at them. It has actually been a hell of along time since I have except for the new ones I made of Shar¡ and Cord.

December 28, 1992 - Monday - Christmas, Rhonda, Tina

Well I figure it's about time I write about Christmas, before I forget!

We left for Jonny's house on Christmas eve sometime around five o'clock after father got home from work. When we got there, Jonny was outside waiting for his new little girlfriend, Carol, to arrive. Everybody else was already there, but the food wasn't quite ready yet. I said hello to Rick and a couple of the others. Sherry kept going on about how big I've gotten since they've seen me last. She kept making fun of Jon for not being the biggest anymore. Larry was already sitting at the table, silverware in hand, waiting for the food. I went and talked to Grandma for a few minutes before it was time to eat. I actually got a spot at the adult table this year. I sat next to Joan.

Rick and Denise smoked the turkey, and I thought it tasted pretty good. I also ate tons of stuffing. I talked to Rhonda for the first time while we were filling our plates. Rhonda was wearing a cute little midriff shirt. After dinner, Rhonda, Tina and I went and sat on the couch with Jon and teased him about Carol, who still hadn't showed up yet. When she finally did, I told Tina to scoot over so Carol could sit with Jon. Then Rhonda, Tina and I started talking for a while. They thought it was neat when they found out I am going to UF. Tina knows a lot of people who go there and actually knew about some of the parties at Gator Growl...

I just now had some thoughts. I was thinking about who I'm going to call when I get back up to Gainesville. I was just thinking about how my closest female friend, Melissa, is now gone. I then come home and all of those old 'I'm in love with Kim!' wounds are now reopened and I'll have to deal with that again. We'll be parting with a much better relationship this time. I just would like to go to my new classes, make some new friends, and ideally find a girl that I can actually be with for some length of time. That's all.

Anyway, we soon opened all of our presents. Larry was constantly taking pictures. He then would group us up into our families and take those as well. I eventually went and got my camera and asked him to take a couple for me. I wanted a picture of Rhonda and Tina so I took a 'family portrait' of his family for myself. I received a portable cassette player from Rick and family to use up on campus. I later found out that they kept asking Mema all about my classes trying to find out something really good to get me. I'm going to write him a thank you letter soon. Mema gave me three dollars and later gave me a new shirt. She said that she didn't want to give it to me with everything else because she didn't have anything for Robert. We decided that we'd consider it a back to school gift. I also got a good little keychain flashlight among other things from Larry. That was good.

It was funny watching Carol caught up in all of the commotion that we have all gotten use to over the years. After everything was opened, everybody started grouping off and talking. Sherry, Denise, Rhonda and Tina all stole Carol at the kitchen table and they talked for hours. Jonny was depressed that they stole his 'girlfriend' so I tried to cheer him up. I took Cathy over and got her to give him a Hershey's kiss. He was laughing and it did a good job of cheering him a up for a little while. Later on he was messing with his camera. The film wasn't winding and he couldn't get it fixed. He was almost ready to throw the entire thing away. Luckily, I've played with cameras enough that I fixed it pretty quick so he was happy again. I was glad that I got it fixed.

Eventually, everybody started going home, and we soon did as well. I was a bit surprised to discover that Carol is quiet old with at least one sixteen year old kid! I went to sleep pretty soon after we got home.

I didn't wake up until about nine when everybody else was already up. I got to watch Cathy open all of her Barbie stuff and later her ponies. I actually was surprised quite a few times. I got a rechargeable flashlight all of my very own. I was very careful not to let mother steal this one before I had it packed safely away. I also received a Cambridge organizer, which I had wanted for the longest time, but could never find! I didn't really remember telling them that much that I wanted one because I thought that they'd think it's too expensive so I was just going to buy it myself. She said that I did tell her though and I'm glad that I got it. It was a pretty decent Christmas, especially since there was a $550 check inside of the organizer for college!

November 9, 1992 - Monday - Melissa breaks up!

What a stroke of marvelous luck!

LIFE IS FUCKING BEAUTIFUL!!!!! The most awesome thing that could have happened this weekend did! Melissa broke up with her boyfriend!!!!!!!!!!!!! (13 for luck!) AHHHHHHHHHH!!! After she told me, I couldn't wait until I was back at my dorm so I could scream and shout for joy!!! Melissa had been dating richard for four and a half years, so I realize that there is a very real chance that they will get back together, but she told me that this was coming for some time now. YES!!! She was trying her hardest to play off her grief but I know very that she feels like shit.

I tried to help comfort her as well as possible. I walked her home after class. I told her about visiting granny yesterday. She told me how sweet I was for visiting her thus we started talking about grandparents. I wanted to get her mind off Richard while showing her a sensitive side of me. She told me how she lives with her grandparents most of the time because her family is dysfunctional. She said that it is amazing that she came out even half way decent. She told me how her grandfather is the man that she looks up to and respects the most. I told her how I never knew any of my grand or great grandfathers very well.

As we neared yulee she actually walked the longer way with me instead of cutting across like she used to. I was happy. As we said goodbye I told her to please cheer up. She sort of bit her lip with really sad puppy eyes and turned her head from side to side that she couldn't. She reminded me so much of the girl in the movie Cocktail. I just wanted to garb her and hold her and make her feel better. Poor Melissa.

How do you talk to an angel? How do you hold her close to where you are? It's like trying to catch a falling star... The Heights

Sunday morning at about eleven, the telephone rang. We were all still asleep so I just let it ring. It was Granny! She left a message telling me that my parents and sisters were there and if I hurried I could come and see her and them and have dinner. I jumped up and got ready as fast as I could. I called her back and told her that I was coming. Mother was worried that I didn't know my way but I told them I I definitely remembered from all of those times going with them. I borrowed Chris' car to go and get mine from Red D, I hadn't even used my car the entire weekend.

Something tried to tell me to call my parents Saturday night but I didn't. I kept thinking to myself that I should be going to Granny's this weekend, and I did. It took me a bit longer than I had planned because of the traffic and the wind but I never had a question or doubt about any of the turns. When I arrived I gave Granny a big hug and said hello to everybody else. She is looking very well. Very healthy. She had cooked a big meal and she wouldn't let me rest until I had a full plate. I had beef, a bowl of peas, pork chops, sweet potato, and especially the corn bread. We then had ice cream for dessert. She told us everything that was going on up there and I got to do the same. I had to tell them all about my perfect Chemistry placement score, my first football game, the parties, and playing with Melissa. Mother and I then worked on filling out a financial aid form so I can try to get more money for next semester and beyond.

I asked Granny is she received my birthday card. She hadn't, but then they told me that she hadn't gotten father's either. It was because nobody has been to her post office box in a few days. Granny turned eighty on Thursday, the 5th. on the She was also telling me how when she first called my number, she dialed it wrong, so she had my father read them off to her the second time.

Later on, newly married Lovey and Bob came by. They got married just a few days ago on Lovey's birthday. Lovey told me that they did that so Bob would only have to buy her one present instead of two and we laughed. It seemed that all of the older relatives talked a lot more to me. It's probably because I'm talking back to them now. It was about four, and my family had to leave since tomorrow is a school day for Chrissy and Cathy. Mother told Granny not to let me stay too late, and told me to call when I got back home. Lovey was telling me how good of a cook Bob is, and how he makes the best steaks. I told that it's been a long time since I've had a really good steak, living on a college budget and not having the determination to cook it. She also was taking about how they went deep sea fishing on the same trip that I saw them at Busch Gardens.

Not too much longer after they left, Mary and Tammy came over. We all actually sat around and talked for a long time. I haven't had a real conversation with Tammy in years. It was amazing! Maybe I was embarrassed when I was in front of my family, or something. Tammy's pregnant and is getting married soon. they are already looking at a house near Mary and Archie's. Tammy said that she is going to finish high school though. She is actually getting cuter. Mary and Tammy both agreed that I've changed a lot recently and said that I remind them of Jerry. We all ended up talking about people farting in school and I made the joke about what it would sound like to my friends if I went back to Gainesville and told everybody that I visited my Grandmother, and we talked about people farting. Everyone laughed. Actually, I was being pretty witty and both Mary and Tammy were laughing at what I was saying. It was fun. Granny was telling us all about how she used to act up in school, and was being really funny herself. She remembered getting her car back in 1929 and was telling us all about it. It was really great. I'm so glad she's doing so well, and I'm glad she called me. I sort of yelled at my parents for not calling me and telling me that they were coming, but they didn't know until late last night.

After Mary and tammy left, Sue and Durell came over and we all talked for a little while. At about seven I figure it was time to o and said goodbye to everyone. I'm going to have to hurry and go visit her more often while I still have my car up here. She sent me off with a box of hash browns, two bananas, and a jar of gherkins. I made sure that I finished off all of the cornbread before I left. She told me to be extra careful because my parents would blame her if I didn't make it home safely. I told her that they wouldn't do such a thing, but I would be careful. Durell agreed that you should always take a few more minutes because it might safe your life.

When I got home, I called Granny and told her that I was OK. I then called home and did the same.

Today I called home again to tell mother the rest of the information about my income from Busch Gardens over the summer. I also got to tell her the HAPPY NEWS!!! about Melissa breaking up. I wonder what she thought about it. I'm sure she thinks it's funny how I am seeming to get what I'm dreaming of when it comes to Melissa.

This time I will do more than only hope...