I once had a sweet little motorcycle. It was a gift from my friend Anders, who was an avid rider. I'd been depressed and was having a hard time making connections after my move from Michigan to Monterey, California. Anders called me up one day with a solution. "I think you need a motorcycle," he said.... Continue Reading →
Bagels with Bryers
I've always loved living alone, but the first time was the most satisfying. Finally tasting freedom, making my own decisions, keeping my own schedule, bathing for as long as I wanted. I called in orders to Martini's for calzones and salads just before they closed at midnight, and I'd stay up late watching Purple Rain while I ate.... Continue Reading →
During a Drive, A Moment
I love the taste of my hair after a day at the beach. I'd been trying to tame the flying strands of hair as they twisted around in the wind on the drive home. The windows were down to better experience the perfect, warm day - a day on which even if we had air conditioning, we'd shut it... Continue Reading →
Clothing Dummy
Dress to make yourself feel good. I read the words in what was meant to be a sassy rebuttal to how society expects women to dress. I love the concept - wear whatever you want! Be confident! Fuck ‘em! Hard as I try, though, I haven't figured out how to do that: dress to make... Continue Reading →
The Mosh Pit
My first mosh pit experience was shared with one of the Sunlin twins - he came up behind me, told me to relax, then put his arm around my waist and took me in. We were at a concert at the State Theater in Kalamazoo, Michigan. It was winter, and in winter the youth of... Continue Reading →
Serious Drinker
I have never been a serious drinker. Even now, I have a small, private feeling of pride that my go-to drink has become a jack & coke, with lime - a drink I converted to from my standard vodka & tonic after tasting it in the kisses of my lover during so many nights out, the smoky whiskey mixing... Continue Reading →
I Wrote a Will.
I have this neighbor. I like her. I think she's cool and she does interesting things that I'd like to know how to do, but I'm shy so instead of asking her how, I just get drunk and then text her about...I don't even know. She's very patient. One night we invited she and her... Continue Reading →
My Power Friend
Today is my birthday. As usual, I received a large box from my oldest and dearest friend, Jessica. In it, I found a wrapped gift with this disclaimer: About a year ago, Paulie and I broke up. Shortly after, I had a vivid and powerful dream about an elephant and Paulie. Rather than try to... Continue Reading →
The Enabler
My boyfriend walked into the kitchen as I was beginning to sort dishes and said "okay mom, the kids are going to be entertained for the next 15 minutes or so." I shuffled some plates around and put a couple of glasses on top. "Now's your chance to have some time to yourself." "Okaaaay" I... Continue Reading →
Tommy Boy
I found this picture of Tom today. That’s the risk you take when pulling out old dusty boxes of photographs in search of something completely different. If you’re superstitious about throwing away pictures, you’re bound to eventually find one that catches you off guard. We met at one of those dark winter parties where everyone... Continue Reading →
Amanda Janik 