I know it's been awhile since I posted. And there's no decent excuse, although I'll more than likely try to make some up. To be honest, I needed to take some time to recharge and relax. And, it's official, I am on hiatus until 2009.

But I wanted to let everyone know things have actually been going better in my life and pursuits. Let's just get to the health thing first. A couple months ago I let my friends know that I'd had some bloodwork done, and my triglycerides (or fatty acids in the blood) were off the chart. Thanks to some medication and a complete change of diet I'm happy to report that I've gotten than number back down to a reasonable level and my risk of heart disease as significantly reduced. Also, as a matter of not having a physical exam in a long time, I also got a chest x-ray (mainly because I've been an occasional social smoker). That, also, came up negative. So that's the good news on the health front.

Also glad to report that my full-time job is going very well. After more than a year of championing my own cause to be brought on board full-time at the day gig, they finally did it. Have had a good couple month, feel a lot more financially secure, and even got a generous bonus from my bosses. In a time when things are on the downturn for the country, I thank my lucky stars I was able to pull this out of my hat. It made my Christmas a lot easier to handle.

Had a nice Christmas Eve with the wife. Ate lots of awesome cheeses and meats, drank lots of champagne and watched some holiday classics on the tube. The dogs enjoyed their presents and Beggin Strips. It was a nice way to cap off the holiday season. Today we head down to the in-laws and open our gifts. Ham and tri-tip on the menu. I'm so going off diet. I'm also taking Tom & Jerrys down with me.

HERE'S THE FREE MUSIC PART:

Since I'm feeling particularly jovial and generous today, I've decided to make my first record, The State of Blue-Eyed Soul, a free download. This is a limited offer until Christmas is over. Whether that's later tonight or through the weekend remains to be see. I guess it all depends on if the word spreads. So without further adieu, here is the link to the file:

http://ping.fm/kWdyS

Enjoy the music and tell your friends a really cool record is online for free.

Lastly, I want to thank some people who were instrumental in keeping me from totally offing myself this year. I honestly don't know what I would have done if you all weren't in my life.

Christy - We've gone through hell and back this year. I know it's been tough, but there is really no one on earth I'd rather do this with. I love you and look forward to making next year our best ever.

Doug Logan - Your friendship has been a welcome gift this year. I wish you all the luck possible through this difficult time in your life and will ever be there when you need a friend.

Scott Ludwig - In the brief time we've been friends, we've had a lot of fun and great conversation. It's so refreshing to have someone to lay all of the shit no one else understand upon. I appreciate having a kindred spirit, and I'll stop now before I start sounding too gay.

Michael and Donna De Lepine - Although we haven't seen much of each other of late, your continued support and friendship are never lost on me. I hope we all get a chance to hang out soon, and I wish you much luck with your future plans. I know I'll miss you deeply when you guys head out to the island.

Christian Beranek - We've had such a tumultuous journey, you and I. I'm very proud of your success and look forward to seeing what's on the horizon with you. Thank you for keeping me in your arsenal and giving me the opportunities you have--and for being a good friend.

Mike Wellman - Hey Daddy-O! Thank you for being about the most positive person I've ever met. If life ever gets to you, you never show it. And I wish I had that kind of grace and composure. Thanks for your continued support of my musical and comic book endeavors, and for showing me a great example of a new father.

Michael Ashanti - It's going to break my heart knowing that you're an ocean away now. I'm so glad you found a companion in life and I with the two of you all the love and joy I can muster. I can't wait until we're both in a place when we can work together in the same room again. For now our careers have sent us on opposite sides of the planet, but you will always be my musical soul brother.

Christopher North - What a crazy year for you! I'm so glad you have been able to set down the roots for not only a great family but a respected career. I'll try no to be so much of a stranger next year. You always have my well wishes and support.

Chris Woodward - Can you believe we've been friends for 29 goddamn years? When the hell are you going to move to LA??

James Rodriguez - I miss my artist and partner more than I ever let on. I'm ready to get the ball rolling again, and it seems like you've got some time on your hands. Let's talk.

Raquel Griffiths - Thank you for believing in me, championing me to S&B and being a class act of a boss and lady. I don't think I ever express how much you teach me. Just know it's greatly appreciated. I promise not to screw up on your watch.

Lauren Perry - You are a true friend to me and understand me in ways no one else does. I'm sorry you have to see all that. :-P

Denise Scanlon - For letting me in so deeply into your family I can only say thanks. Thank you also for being there for both Christy and I when times are tough. You're the coolest mom-in-law I've ever had.

The Band - Guys, I promise this coming year is our year. Thank you for the fantastic gig this past summer, your talent and professionalism. I'll be in touch very soon with my plan for '09!

Southbay Bob - Thanks for being a continued staple in the music scene here and always letting me know when there's an event I need to be at. You're one of my California friends that I really need to get to know better, and I'll make a point of that in 2009.

Jeremiah Roiko - Can't believe I almost forgot you. That would have been tragic, as you are an amazing  talent, a welcome colleague and a good friend. I truly love sharing the stage with you and hope we get more chances to do it in the coming years.

Keith Murphey - Thank you for continuing to be a valued friend and colleague despite whatever differences we've had. You are the reason I continued my comic book career, and that fact will never go undisputed. Best of luck with whatever you choose to pursue.

I'm sure I missed a lot of folks, and hopefully I'll get to them before the new year starts. Until then I say “Merry Christmas to All!” Have a great one!

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