magicbeans. nothing if not awkward.

Thirteen years ago today George and I, on a cross-country road trip—which had previously taken us through Austin, where we would both end up living in the fall—drove from Carlsbad to Colorado Springs through a spectacular summer hailstorm. Colorado Springs had wild bunnies like other cities have squirrels.

Twelve years ago I finished up the summer transfer program at RISD, ate Japanese food, and saw Frank Black. Frank Black, going again by Black Francis, played here in New York last weekend, but I didn't go.

Eleven years ago I had Japanese food for lunch, then semi-crashed a wedding in Western Mass with Cybèle, who was invited, and Chris, who like me was not. I flirted with a cater-waiter named Courtney, had a terrible headache, and posited that I'd not be one to have a big formal wedding of my own.

Ten year ago I made plans to visit Connecticut—from Providence, at the time—and play foursquare, which has nothing to do with the social geolocation app.

Nine years ago I was in Connecticut for the second half of the summer, having broken up with Stef for the third or fourth time. Went lake-swimming with George in the evening.

Eight years ago I was also in Connecticut, although only for a brief visit, as Stef and I were back together and subletting a place in Providence for the post-graduation summer before moving to Austin in the fall. I met George for lunch.

Seven years ago, now in New York City, it was the first thoroughly unpleasant day of the summer. Went to a crappy midtown bar after work, then to see Susie play a show in Greenpoint.

Six years ago I have no idea.

Five years ago I was living way up in Inwood, at the end of 204th Street, and spending a lot of time on social networking sites in an attempt to feel connected. Also, I started my "Same as on TV." Flickr set.

Four years ago I have no idea.

Three years ago I have no idea, though I did take a photo of stars on the ground, which I did again this past week. I suspect I was happy.

Two years ago I have no idea. I suspect I was unhappy.

Last year I have no idea.

Fourteen+ years ago today I've got absolutely no inkling of an idea.

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On July 30th over the last 13 years I've been weeks or months away from Austin on a number of different occasions. I've been at and away from home, wherever that's been at the time. I've eaten Japanese food at least twice. I've hung out with George, Chris, Cybèle, Susie; others I'm sure. I've been in love, I've been heartbroken. I've had crushes on strangers. I've watched TV and live music and frozen water falling from the sky.

Today I've had a bagel with tofu cream cheese and a coffee. I've coveted homemade pickles. I miss having regular Saturday brunch. I've thought about dinner. At quarter-past three in the afternoon I've yet to take any photos. I've listened to Electric Light Orchestra, and Depeche Mode remixes, and the Smashing Pumpkins.