Jonathan Vargas as life goes on

Mi primera ves en Peru

noreply@blogger.com (Jonathan Vargas) — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 13:25:00 +0000

Where to begin with Lima Peru....... Like any country or state you visit you have your nice and not so nice areas. The majority of Peru is poverty stricken. Many areas have dirt roads and incomplete houses. The walls are covered in graffiti and many areas are just very run down. On the other side of the spectrum you have your beautiful neighborhoods that have scenic views of the pacific ocean. I was lucky enough to be staying in Miraflores which is one of the very nice areas of Lima.

I went to Lima for a business project that I am working on. I dont want to say just yet what that is, but I needed to come down to learn about the industry and to check out some of the materials needed. The first 3 days I can say I was extremely busy and even thou I don’t think I made the progress I wanted to make I still managed to get an experience and learn something from this experience. I just needed to learn in a less expensive way!

Some interesting fact about lima is that it never rains. I was here for 4 days and they are in the overcast season. I barely saw the sun out since it was nothing but clouds but believe it or not they tell me it never rains. There are always clounds but no rain. They get more rain in the desserts then they do in Lima. When I arrived I thought I would have nothing but sun and maybe have some time to build on a tan but NADA!!!!

Also if your planning a trip to lima I hope you have nerves of steel. THEY DRIVE LIKE LOCOS!!!!!!!!! I dont think of myself to be a nervous wreck but OMG I felt like I was going to die every time I got in a car. I was on a highway on a way to a party for a couple who were celebrating there 12 year anniversary and we must have gone aginst traffic 3 TIMES!!! EVEN A TRAFFIC OFFICER TOLD US TO GO AGAINST THE TRAFFIC TO GET ON THE MAIN ROAD!!! There aren’t many stops signs or traffic lights and people just drive any way they feel like. NO FUN

On a positive note I really enjoyed the coastal park in Miraflores. I also liked that they had a mall built into the cliffs that overlooked the Pacific ocean. I also got to go to a 12 year anniversary party for a gay couple and there friends. There must have been like 8 couples there that were together for 10 plus years. The food was delicious and dont get me started on the fruits and vegetables so rich and tasty. The people in lima were just as sweet!

Anyways its time for me to get some rest, Sorry I didnt take many pictures but my focus was on other things and I didnt really get the chance to be a tourist.

Jonathan Vargas

Marching in Numbers

noreply@blogger.com (Jonathan Vargas) — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 14:45:00 +0000

Its a shame that I live in a country where I cannot marry the person I love. That I can be evicted from my home or lose my job because of my sexual orientation. Its a shame that thousands are harassed and discriminated and aren't protected under the law.

Having said that, my friends and I thought it would only be fair that we stand behind the movement and provide support for the Equality March. On October 11, 2009 we marched with 200,000 other members and supports of the LGBT community. Letting everyone know in Capital of hill that we are no longer going to wait around for them to take there time with our issues. That we are only asking for the rights that everyone else has in this country.

"A free and equal people do not tolerate prioritization of their rights. They do not accept compromises. They do not accept delays. And when we see leaders and those who represent us saying 'you must wait again,' we say No! No! No longer will we wait!" Cleve Jones

I think what we did by marching was amazing but if you were to ask me what we should do to really get there attention I would tell the LGBT community to stop paying there TAXES!!! I am more then sure that Washington would read the message loud and clear and they would changes the law in minutes!!! but thats just my opinion and don't necessary know if that would work.

Keep on Fighting

Jonathan Vargas

Memoirs of an American Samurai

noreply@blogger.com (Jonathan Vargas) — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 02:27:00 +0000

Yahoo.... I finally made it over to Tokyo Japan and so far the experience has been amazing! I find the people, the country, the streets just to be so intriguing and fun.

Let me start off with the things I love

I love the Japanese toilets!!! I can not believe that we dont have these all over the US or anywhere else in the world for that matter. After letting go of your dark nuggets you can have this little squirter shoot water on your bum. I felt alot cleaner then when I just use toilet paper. You can adjust the pressure too! I ended up going to the Toto showroom which is the creator of most of the worlds advance toilets.

Tokyo has 25 million people living in this city that is more then all of Australia. Shinkjuku Station alone has 3 million people passing through it each day! And the best part is that its SPOTLESS!

Building here are so unique and so interesting. My favorite building so far is the cocoon building and I found out that its actually holds 3 universities. The only thing that I am not crazy about are all the advertising they have on some of the building’s. I am very impressed by the creativity of it all.

I love Japanese women style. Its not just there clothing but the way they style there hair, make-up, and accessories. Its just off the hook!!! Very feminine and unique.

So far I have walked all around Shinjuku, I have gone to like 6 shrines both Shinto and Buddha Shrines. I have gone to the Fire museum which was really interesting. I walked around the different shops and tried some of the different food. I got to smell smells I have never smelled before. I met a fellow American who has lived in Tokyo for 11 years. He took me around the bars and did a little bar hopping where I met other Americans. I have also gone to the Shinjuku gardens.

In the early morning I have gone jogging and I have amazed by how the elderly still manage to wake up and get a quick workout in the near by parks. They seem to keep themselves physically active as often as possible.

The other day I had gone to Kamakuru which is a small town about an hour away from Tokyo. I got to see the Buddha statue of Amida Nyorai. I also went on a hiking tour where i got lost all by myself for about 30 minutes. Very excited but a little scary. I finally found a couple who guided me back on the right path. The town was small and cute with little shops and boutiques.

Food here has been a very hit or miss. I am very particular with food and some of the things here have made me gag while other things haven been surprisingly good. I love the different types of steam breads and desserts. I had a very unique blend of nuts here too which were delicious.

I also went out to party one night. Since it was a long weekend here in Tokyo I got to go to the biggest gay party of all of Asia. The club is called Ageha and the party is called Shangri-la. The space was enormous and the music was insane. I brought my camera but they didnt allow them inside the club so I had to put it in a locker they have outside the club. I met a few Australians and Canadians while I was there and danced for a few hours. They had gogo dancers on boxes painted in a cool design which could only been seen when under a black light. They also had a small area just for food which was a great idea. I left at 5am since I was wiped out and luckly they had shuttle buses back to Shinjuku.

My favorite area of Tokyo has to be Harajuku. The place puts all of Soho New York to shame. The neighborhood is beautiful with all the shops and tall building’s. The main street is filled with all the high-end shops and on the side streets is where you find the boutique shops mixed in with bargain shops. I found myself getting frustrated because I thought there was no way I can see it all and I so wanted too.

On the last night I met up with New, who I met via Theo. New took me to this neat underground theme restaurant. It was a jail theme and would have been really exciting, but we missed the show time and decided to hit a roof top burger joint instead. The Burger place was delicious and the Milk shake was to die for. Then we walked around Shibuya while New filled me in with interesting Tokyo facts. Did you know that Japan has had 30,000 suicides last year alone!!! Thats about 82 a day! I also find out why the Japanese never cross the street during a green light...... You get a ticket!!! Here I thought they were just really patient. I am lucky I wasn't caught.

I have had a wonderful time in Japan and I cant possibly remember it all but here are a few pics

Enjoy

Jonathan Vargas

Good times in Canada

noreply@blogger.com (Jonathan Vargas) — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 23:29:00 +0000

So I finally made it to Canada for the first time. I find it funny that I have been to the other side of the world and yet I never explored what was right next to me. I went to Toronto to be exact and stayed at the Westin Harbor Castle. As you can tell by the name of the Hotel I was by the Harbor.

Toronto was extra busy that week since it was the Toronto International Film Festival and I went to go catch a few good movies and do a little celebrity stocking. Well not much celebrity stocking since I dont care for them that much but def into the movie scene. I did get a glimpse of Matt Damon and George Clooney. George is shorter then I Imagned but then again I really dont care. I was really hoping in seeing Oprah or Megan Fox..... I think Megan is soooo HOT!!!

Besides the Film festival I did a lot of sightseeing by walking around all of Toronto. I stopped by a few of the art museums and went to bloor avenue for some window shopping. Toronto had a little area that was similar to times Square but at a much smaller scale and I found the people to be very friendly and liberal.

On one of my days there I ended up going to Hanlahs Beach which is a 15 min ferry ride from the Harbor into lake Ontario. Its a small group of island bunched together in the lake that makes the beach, park, and a small airport. The beach was clothing Optional and lets just say 80% of the people there were naked. There were people there with there wives and kids, with family members, with there partners and many individuals. I was all by myself and I thought “what the hell” I mean if people really wanted to see me naked they could. I mean my bits are not that hard to find and I felt comfortable because everyone else seemed to just hang out naked and it really want that big of a deal. So I took off my trunks and laid nude like everyone else. I did worry that my bits and pieces were going to get sun burn but I was only planing on being in the sun for about an hour and a half. I put in my ears phones and just baked. I didn't get in the water since I read somewhere that the water wasn’t the cleanliest water around but it didnt stop other people from getting in. After the beach I went for a walk around the park and admired the views and the scenery.

I also went out at night and bumped into my friend chase and his boyfriend at this bar. I hate going out on my own so when I saw them there I was relieved. They introduced me to there friends and we just hung out during a drag show. I also went to “Fly” night club which is the club “Babylon” from the show “Queer As Folk”. Its a lot smaller then I thought but the music was good and I did my happy feet dance. Afterwards I was invited to go to the Sauna..... From what they said the Sauna in Toronto werent like the Saunas that people were used to. They said that they were very clean and had many fine “amenities”. I am pretty sure all these things are true but I declined the offer since I really wasn't in the mood to watch or to participate in sexual behavior. As you guys know I am not afraid to have people watch me do my thing but again I wasnt in the mood and just felt like going to bed since I needed to be up early to do more things. Next time I will consider going.....

Anyways thats all for now..... Stay tuned for more

Jonathan Vargas

Queen Bee’z Birthday

noreply@blogger.com (Jonathan Vargas) — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 18:06:00 +0000

Cornell is no FOOL...... he knew because I had missed his Birthday last year that I would have to make up for it BIG TIME. He was able to make his one special day into a long 3 day 3 parts birthday celebration. What kind of person does that???? He must think he is something real special!! gag ......JK

Day 1

The day of his actual birthday Cornell choice a thai restaurant in his neighborhood. He invited 17 of his closes friends to join him to celebrate. He turned 25.... he is now a quarter of a century old or you can say a quarter of century Young since he is Asian.

Not sure what possessed Cornell to get drunk before dinner but he definitely put on a show at dinner. He was silly and funny through out the night. I think he may have scared his little sister since she had never seen him that way. Alma just laughed and Miguel would have laughed too had he not been so tried and worn out.

After dinner we went to the beer garden for a few drinks. We were there for about an hour and I actually pumped into elementary school friend who I haven't seen in about 10 years. After the beer garden we hopped into a cab and went to Rockit. Which is this Gay bar in the city that is usually jammed pack on friday nights. We went for one drink and then I sent Cornell and Alma back in a cab back into queens. I went home to rest up for

day 2

Cornell feel in love with the Artsy Fartsy day party at the PS1 Museum. So that is where we were on saturday. We had a couple of drinks, looked at a few of the art pieces and then danced and mingled with the crowd. Its such a unique place because you see all kinds of people. People are rolling around with the infant childeren and senior citizens are rocking it out on the dance floor. I wasnt kidding when I said you see all kinds of people. After the PS1 party we went to the diner for a quick meal and then I was in bed by 1030 resting up for the final installment.

Day 3 .... The final installment to Cornell's reign

Since Cornell’s birthday falls on a 3 day weekend we ended up at one of the big circuit parties..... ALEGRIA!!!! But before Alegria I met up with Alma to watch “The September Issue” which is about Vogue Magazine and the famous Anna Waltour. The movie was interesting enough and I would recommend watching it but either at home or at an early matinee to save money. I don’t think it was worth watching at 13 dollars but at 6 I would have been a lot happier lol. So Alegria was a big hit and we had a lot of fun. We went with our usual friends and once again had the times of our lives. Erica and Cornell had matching shirts which was cute and I just wore one of my deep cut tank tops. They played Cornell's and Erika's song Celebration by Madonna and they want wild and crazy. Cornell was actually on his way out of the club heading towards coat check when the song played. He dropped everything and ran back to the dance floor lol.

Now I just need to rest up ....... I cant imagine what he has planed for next year.

Cant wait !!!!!!

Hope all is well

Jonathan Vagas

Ps The first picture is of the way I wrapped Cornells Bday presents. I thought he might appreciate Hot boys and Madonna

Get into the "CIRCUS"

noreply@blogger.com (Jonathan Vargas) — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 23:50:00 +0000

Well I am very excited to say that I went to my first real concert ever this past week. When I was in Sydney I was supposed to go see the Pussy Cat Dolls but ended up selling my tickets at the last minute. This time around I was ready to go buck wild to see Britney Spears. I am not a big Britney fan but all my friends wanted to go and they have always mentioned how much fun her shows usually are. I planned it with Cornell and it was going to be a group of 10. The only problem was that I made a huge mistake and got the tickets for a different night to Cornell's. I know I totally messed up but hey they survived.

Before the concert I cooked for my friends. It was going to be Yarenis and her two friends, Erika, Alexia, Alma, and myself. I made my favorite dish from my cook book. It was Chicken mushroom and tarragon casserole. It tasted amazing and everyone said they loved it even thou they all ate only half there plate. I am going to give them the benefit of the doubt and say that they were just looking out for there figure and trying to stay petite. I believe them since they ate little appetizer’s and barely ate any dessert.( by the way after the concert I ate all the brownies and cookies) Thanks guys.

We headed over to the concert which was held at Madison square garden. The place was packed with 20,000 people. We had really good seats where we can see all the stage’s very clearly. Jordan sparks opened for Britney and sang some of her major hits like “No Air” and “Tattoo”. Before Britney appeared there was a mini circus show with acrobats and clowns. The introduction video with Perez Hilton was Hot!!!

The only issue I had was that Britney was chewing gum while lip singing. I mean we all know she does that but you would think that she would be a little more respectful and try to make an effort in not being so obvious. Oh well.....

Till next time

Jonathan Vargas

BOA= Bank Of AssHoles

noreply@blogger.com (Jonathan Vargas) — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 20:55:00 +0000

So I am furious and livid with Bank of America or what I would like to call Bank of ASSHOLES!!!

A few days ago I logged into my account online just to make sure everything was O.K with my accounts. Make sure bills were being paid ..etc. When I noticed that my Credit Card limit went from $6000 down to $500. My first reaction was "wow there must be a mistake let me call them" I have never been late with my credit card payment and had basically paid the account in full at this point. I am speaking to customer care representative. And he told me that because I was late on my mortgage a few months back I was considered a high risk client.

So a little background information..... Back in January I was jobless, I had no tenants in my home, I was heart broken, and 10,000 mile away from family. I was going through a really ruff time and I was trying to do my best to keep my head above water. I have always taken a lot of pride in being financially responsible but shit happens and I did the best I could. I was one month behind on the mortgage for a few months (which I understand that it doesn't look good but its like I was missing payments for 3 or 4 months). As soon as I got back to New York I got up-to-date with my mortgage and have been paying it on time ever since.

The part that pisses me off like crazy is that what if I had gone away somewhere and I would have used my card??? I get to the counter and the person behind it says my card has been declined??? Do you know how embarrassing that would have been! Till this day I have yet to recieve a letter or a call letting me know that they were cutting my credit limit so drastically. I tried to negotiate with the guy letting him know my situation and asking him to go through my payment history on that card and to see if I can strike a deal and maybe rise the limit up to a reasonable number in which we can both be happy. Want to know what that ASSHOLE DID???......... HE CLOSED MY ACCOUNT COMPLETELY!!!!

I can give you all the boring details on how I called like 3 more times and spoke to one asshole after another. What makes me really upset as well is that I was trying to start this new chapter in my life and start this business venture and use the Credit cards as just back up. I now have to rethink my whole plan and its going to set me back. The cards I was going to use as a security measure but now that idea went down the drain. I went to check my credit scored and it dropped from a 750 down to a 685 which is still considered to be good credit. Its going to take about 1/2 a year to rebuild my credit so its back into the excellent category. I'll apply for a new card in december but not with BOA!!!!

BOA SUCK MY DICK BITCH!!!!!!

Till next time

Jonathan Vargas

On a lighter note I saw 2 great movies these past few weeks one was "Julie and Julia" and I saw "500 days of Summer" Both movies were wonderful and I recommend that you see them.

for what its worth

noreply@blogger.com (Jonathan Vargas) — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 18:40:00 +0000

Last week I went to Atlantic City for the first time in my life. Its about 2.5 hours away from New York and its actually like Las Vegas but at a very small scale. The reason for my trip down to Atlantic city was to dance and headline at a club called the Westside Inn.

I arrived to Atlantic City with Joe who is the guy who asked me to dance and organized the event with Keith. Both are really sweet guys and I have known Joe when I danced at club 20.

I got to see all the different casinos since everyone was booked in a different one for the night.

I stayed at Harrahs resort and let me tell you ........ I WAS SPOILED ROTTEN!!!!!

When checking-in to the hotel Keith had this very powerful asset. His Mouth and personality!

He was working the girl behind the counter fiercely. He just knew how to speak to people and how to ask for things in the best manner. A skill I much admire but lack at the moment. Anyways I had the sickest suite ever. Not only was it a massive suite, but it was on top of the 33 floor and the view of the water was breath taking.

When I walked into the room I had no idea it was going to be so nice and luxurious. I didnt expect it at all and I was overflowing with excitement. I could not contain myself at all. I was just overwhelmed I guess. I quickly dropped my bags and went to get some food with the guys before the show.

Keith scored us a great meal at the diamonds club restaurant. After stuffing my face I went back to my room to relax.

See this is where it gets funny....... When I got back to my room, I wasn't as excited as I was before. The shock value of the room went away and even thou it was spectacular it didn't matter to me anymore. I felt lonely in the big open space and I started to think that all these nice things are just that... things. And it didn't have any real value whatsoever if you couldn't experience it with someone special and share it. What good was the room to me if I couldn't share the experience with someone close??? A bar area with no one to drink with ehhh. a jacuzzi with no one to throw bubbles with ehhh. I would have loved to share that space, and dance to funny music, and make yummy drinks. I ended up calling my friend to see if they could come but no one was available lol.

What I ended up doing was sitting down trying to write a poem but the words just didnt come out properly. I dont think I am a good poet but I am determined to write some since Cornell always seems to get a lot of joy from it and I thought I would give it a shot. I then got ready for the club and I had a good night. The show went well and people seemed happy. There was a little drama in the end and I ended up geting a small cut on my ankle but other then that it was fine.

Till next time AC

Jonathan Vargas

I love this song below,

Food all weekend long

noreply@blogger.com (Jonathan Vargas) — Tue, 11 Aug 2009 01:13:00 +0000

This weekend I was very busy EATING!!!! On saturday I had gone over to Cornell's house for the first time since he moved. I invited my little sister to come since I wanted to hang out with her too. Miguel and Alma also came to Cornell's house. I brought over some pita bread, cheese, and hummus for appetizers. Miguel got 2 really nice bottles of champagne to make mimosa's. I had no idea Cornell could turn it out in the kitchen. He made Thai chicken curry which was super good but super spicy. Half way into the meal my nose was dripping like a broken water pipe. For dessert we had ice cream and like always I ate like a pig. I had 3 large bowls of ice cream. I am starting to think that I am going to be in big trouble when I get older. After lunch we started to paint since Cornell had a canvas and brushes. We all collaborated on one big piece which turned out really nice. We all had a great time.

On sunday I had my mother and brother come over since I wanted to make them a home cooked meal. I slaved away in the kitchen for about 2 hours ( not to mention the clean up time since I left a hurricane of a mess ). I made a tomato and chicken stew which came out superb if I do say myself. My brother and mom licked there fingers basically. We then just drunk a bottle of wine and just had some family time. My sister didnt make it since she had plans already but who care's I saw her the day before lol. I sent some food back home with my mom. They stayed till about 5 and then I had to give them the boot since I had a friend engagement dinner.

So my good friend Mallory is getting married and she had invited me down and a few other of her friends down to her place for dinner. I havent been to Mallory's home in years and I hadent seen her parents in about 2 years. When I got there her mother nearly knocked me down with hugs and kisses lol. I also got to see my friend Isabel and Rosemary who I hadnt seen in about 4 years. It was like we never left high school. We all ate and played games. Me and Isabel won a bottle of Apple Cider for being a fake couple lol. I ate some more once again and everyone was asking me if there was an end to my stomach. I remember going over to Mallory's sister's house for a dinner and I cleaned the house out. I really do think I have a bottomless stomach:)

Anyways thats all for now I am very sleepy sleepy

Jonathan Vargas

Books and movies I haven't mentioned.... till now

noreply@blogger.com (Jonathan Vargas) — Thu, 06 Aug 2009 16:02:00 +0000

I love these books and got great joy reading them.

The movies on the other hand ...... well some are great and some are just alright.

I loved "My Sister's Keeper" its such a wonderful movie.

I thought "Public Enemy" was a good movie but a bit slow.

You can skip "The Proposal" since it just plained out SUCKED!!!

Hope all is well

Jonathan Vargas

4.5 hours later and I am in DC

noreply@blogger.com (Jonathan Vargas) — Thu, 06 Aug 2009 15:37:00 +0000

It had been a long time since I have been in DC. I went about 3 years ago with Ken and thought it was about time that I go back for a quick visit. Besides DC is only a 4.5 hour bus ride from New York.

My Main reason for going was so that I could meet and speak to a new friend of mine named Cass. He has started his own designer underwear business called Disco Valante. Its a great new brand thats hips, creative, and fun to wear. Anyways Cass had agreed to meet up with me and give me a few pointers in the right direction and talk to me about my business ideas. (I am not sharing what my business idea is just yet but stayed tuned). We meet up at a cute cafe and chilled at the hotels lobby and just ran threw some ideas. He also suggested a few books I should read and gave me a couple of good contacts. I can not thank him enough for all the help he provided me. Its going to be a long voyage and I am going to try to do the best I can. Hopefully it all works out.

My friends joined me on the Voyage to DC and we stayed at the W hotel that just opened up. Its right next to the White house and the Hotel is amazing. The rooms are small but super cute and the lobby is stunning. But thats not really the hotels strongest asset. What made this stay amazing was the wonderful staff at W hotel. They were so friendly, helpful and so engaging. It was one of the best experience when it comes to a hotel that I have had in a while. That very reason alone would make me want to book at a W Hotel again.

Keeping the blog post short today

Hope all is well

Jonathan Vargas

Back to the PINES

noreply@blogger.com (Jonathan Vargas) — Fri, 31 Jul 2009 23:18:00 +0000

It had been about 2 years since I last visited Fire Island and let me tell you I missed it BIG TIME. I actually cant believe that I waited so long to come and visit but I couldn't ever find the right time to go. Its such a relaxing, beautiful, and soothing place to be and last week was the best time to go. The sun was shining and the ocean was calling my name.

Me and Cornell left to fire island in the early morning so that we could get an early start to the day. It was going to be a big party weekend that week but we decided to go for the day since we didnt have a place to stay and the tickets were really expensive ($180). When we got to the island we ran over to the restaurant real quick to check if my friend david was working. David works on Fire Island every summer. He wasn't at the restaurant so we just headed over to the beach. On the way over guess who pops out of no where.......David. I hadn’t seen him since I left as well and he gave me a huge kiss and hug and had me carry him for a bit. Silly boy he is. He introduced me to his friend Davis and we all headed to the beach.

The sun was nice and bright and the Gays were all over the place. We could see where they were setting up the beach party and me and cornell gave each other this look like.....AWWW I want to stay for the party. David was trying to convince us to stay and said that he would figure out a way for us to get in. We tried not to get to excited and just relaxed and hung out with the boys. After the beach we headed over to the bay to get some food. We ordered a big yummy burger with fries. This was our own way to try to sabotage ourselves from going to the party lol.

After our late lunch Davis invited us to his place on the island and offered us a place to stay in case we decided to stay. Again me and Cornell just looked at one another with undecided faces. How were we going to get into the party with out a ticket? We solved the where we would stay problem rather quickly. We could always catch the 11pm ferry back to the city if we didn’t figure something out. It was now up to the connection Gods to see what was next. I called a couple of friends and sent a few text messages. It was now 12 am and we had no tickets and the last ferry had already left. David and Davis had tickets but they were brain storming with ideas trying to figure out ways to get us through. A few moments later I got a text message from a friend and BANG WE SCORED OUR TICKETS.

We all jetted to the beach to get our grove on. We weren't worried that we hadn’t packed for the party since we always know what happens at the dance floor. The shirts come off and no one cares what you are wearing. The party was off the hook. The crowd was magnificent and the music was kicking my ass with the beats. Hector, Marco, Erika, Tom, Cielo, and other of our friends were all there as well. Since it was a beach party the breeze kept us nice and cool throughout the night. We stayed till the end of the party to watch the sunrise. We couldn’t ask for a better trip.

The summer isn’t over yet and I know we will have other Fire island experiences that I cant wait to enjoy.

Davis and David thank you for being crazy and convincing us to stay :) I need you guys around more often.

till next time

Jonathan Vargas

my pretty lady 50th

noreply@blogger.com (Jonathan Vargas) — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 20:21:00 +0000

No words can explain the way I feel about my mom. She is truly anamazing women who has showed me and my sibling's nothing but love and support throughout our entire lives. I remember there were times when we didnt have a cent to our names and she would still give me money so that I could go out with my friends to the movies and then to the arcade ( she didn't always say yes but i know why) . When I figured out that money was scarce I stopped asking her for money because I knew it hurt my mom a
lot more when she had to say no to us.

anyways the main reason for this blog entry is to write about my moms surprise birthday party which was planned by my sister godmother and her husband. We had the party in flushing meadow park and we arrived in style..... Ray had hired a chiva ( a colombian party bus ) and it was filled with my relatives who flew in from Miami, North Carolina, Connecticut, and Boston. Plus other family friends.

My mother was already in the park thinking we were having a picnic and she watched as we all got out of the bus to wish her a happy birthday and to come celebrate the big FIVE-O.

She had tears on her face and big smiles when my uncle, aunt, and cousins came out. They were trying to have my grandparents flown in but the ticket prices were outrages.

We had live music, food, and a pinyata. I saw my aunt, uncle and cousins for the first time in however long. My godmother was there and I hadn't seen her in like 10 years. The party was a great success and my mother had the time of her life. love ya mama

I have alot of pictures so hold on

Hope all is well

Jonathan Vargas

quicky blog

noreply@blogger.com (Jonathan Vargas) — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 17:21:00 +0000

I thought it might be easier for me if I just listed the things I did this past week since it would be less time consuming plus I feel like I never ever get to actually catch up so here goes nothing.

The pictures arent in order but I am sure you can figure it out hehe

1) Went to watch a movie at the pier with my friends. The place was loading with people and we couldnt really see the screen but who cares since the company was good.

2) Did yoga in bryant park with Seth and his crew. about 300 people participated.

3) Went to the PS1 muesum party. Very artisy crowd and very interesting since you get to see all the art work while having a cold beer.

4) Then we went to a bbq by Cornells house and played a couple of drinking games.

5) Went to De'Anna's sons birthday party in queens and had a really nice time. ( I have known De'Anna since I was in the 4th grade so we go wayyyyy back.

6) Went to a pool party with Loopy, Trickee, and Will. Didnt stay out long just till 1. Jeff took this great picture make sure to check out his work

7) Saw the new Harry Potter movie which was cute then had people over for lunch. I made chicken roast with pumpkin and carrots YUMMY!!!

8) Keeping up with my kick boxing class. Which I love

I did do a number of other things but I dont have any pictures so I thought I would skip it.

Hope all is well

Jonathan Vargas

Ken's Birthday

noreply@blogger.com (Jonathan Vargas) — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 20:51:00 +0000

Ken is probably going to kill me for writing this but Ken's 39th Birthday had past a few weeks ago and it reminded me on how I have known ken for 4 YEARS NOW. I had met ken when he had just turned 35 and now he is 39 and he hasn't aged much at all. I remember when he was in Australia my friend Justin was shocked and actually thought he was younger then his ex roommate who was like 28 or 29.

Anyways for the day of his birthday his close friends plus Cornell and I went to the meatpacking district to have a few drinks at the Standard hotel which is a brand new hotel over the High line. More information on the High line later. I was a tad late since I was at my kickboxing class earlier. I ordered my favorite drink a mojito and it was yummy! We all sang happy birthday and then we went home.

I decided to take Ken out for his birthday as a gift just me and him since we hadn't spent much time hanging out with one another and I know he likes to try new restaurants. I didn't know where to take him and I asked around and Cornell suggested the perfect place "La Esquina" which looks like a shady, dirty, dodgy taco stand but once your inside and your on the list a bouncer lets you through these big doors, down a flight a steps, through the kitchen and into this lovely trendy restaurant. (don't attempt to go with out a reservation, you will end up eating the dodgy tacos upstairs). We ordered the tacos soap as a starter and steak for the main. We ordered the same thing but that's what I really wanted as well. anyways the food was great and the atmosphere was fun and creative. I could have walked past la Esquina a million times and never would have guessed it to be a trendy Mexican restaurant.

Kens face when we got there was priceless and I should have taken a photo of it since it basically said WTF are you taking me too. hehehe

anyways thats all for now

Jonathan Vargas

July 4th weekend

noreply@blogger.com (Jonathan Vargas) — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 23:40:00 +0000

I celebrated 4th of July weekend the all American way..... Beach, BBQ, and the all mighty fire works.

I started off at the beach with Cornell, Miguel, and Victoria. We went to long beach which is about an hour train ride from Manhattan. The sun was finally shining since we had nothing but rain in the month of June. We first stopped by at the grocery store to pick up on some snacks. Being its a recession we looked for the best deals. At the beach we met up with Alexia who was there with her BF and friends.

oh before I forgot.... on they way to the beach Miguel and I find out that we needed to pay 5 dollars to go to the beach. We were a little upset since the beach should have been FREE!!! anyways we get to the beach only to find out that's its actually 10 DOLLARS !!!!!!! Miguel and I were furious at this point. In Sydney the beaches are FREE and you have a beautiful beach!!! but then Cornell pointed out " we are not in Sydney any more, so get over it" anyways while roaming the beach me and Miguel looked for hot guys that would justify the 10 bucks. Lets just say the beach owes me big time!!!!

other then that we had a nice time... we got good sun and had good company.

After the beach I was invited to Yarenis's family BBQ. I have known Yarenis since I was in the 4th grade and we have been friend for about 13 years. So we are basically family. Anyways I had not seen Yari's family since I left and it was so nice to see them all. She and her father picked me up in the same car they have had since we were in Jr high.... it brought back so many fine memories of us growing up. Her father welcomed me back and asked how I was doing. Yari's mom looked amazing and Yari's sister Damaris was pregnant with her second childed and she was beaming.

You should all know me by now that I can eat, so when I got to the BBQ guess what I did...... I ATE LIKE IT WAS MY LAST MEAL! lol Yarenis family was like its still the same Jonathan from before lol.

More people stopped by and we ate and talked. Yari's family had bought about $400 worth of fire works so we had a little show on the street corner. A lot of the homes in the neighborhood had fireworks so it was fun to watch. Ours was the best show of course !!!

after the fireworks I went home and called it a night.

Good times good times

Jonathan Vargas

P.S I wasn't drunk but I thought it would be a funny picture :) Oh And I also saw the movie The Hangover which is really really funny :)

Out in Astoria

noreply@blogger.com (Jonathan Vargas) — Sun, 12 Jul 2009 17:59:00 +0000

The only time I leave the island of manhattan is when I am either visiting my mom, going to the airport, and going to the beach. Other then that there is a rare chance that I would hop on a train and going to any of the other boros. I mean you have everything in the city why would you go anywhere else. So a few nights ago cornell invited me to go out in Astoria queens. When I first thought of his proposal I thought umm I think I'll pass. He told me miguel, Alma, Darwin, Felica, lila were going to be there and I thought you know what it's time to do something different and not gay LOL.

So we went to stacy square beer garden in Astoria queens and ended up having a really good time. The venue is huge and I was there by 10 and the placed was packed. We were forced to sit in the inside since there weren't any tables on the outside for our group. The beer cornell ordered wasn't that great but the sangria Falica got was super duper yummy.

I don't know what was in the air that night, it must have been the hetro’s toxic fumes seeping from there pores that made me behave stupidly. Miguel took a photo of me in which I was chugging a jug of bear and I spilled it all over my face. Also as you can see what my t-shirt says let's just say I was a hit with the fellas and the ladies were not having any of it. The women would give me the nasty looks while the men all wanted to high 5 me. I kinda wished it said I love male porn stars but whatever.

After stacy beer garden we went to Astoria’s tiny little gay bar that had about like 20 people in the place including the staff. I called it an early night by hitching a ride with Darwin at about 1230 back into the city thank god he drives.

The next morning I got up to watch Bruno the movie. It' had really funny moments but that actual movie was just alright. I thought it was great to see the extreme of things. Erica said it perfectly that the movie Bruno showed gay stereotypes on steroids. I am glad I payed only 6 bucks to watch it because I don't think it's a 12 buck movie.

Anyways that's all for now:)

Hope all is well

Jonathan

Kick your Ass

noreply@blogger.com (Jonathan Vargas) — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 23:20:00 +0000

My father, brother, and step mom were in town a few weeks back and that too was the first time I had seen any of them since I left to Australia. My dad gained a lot of weight, my brother got taller, and my step mom look good as always. I had a really nice time with my family and it was nice to laugh about the past. We all went to the movie theater to see Transformers in a IMAX theater. I thought the first movie was better but the action was really cool. We later walked around the city and did some shopping. We all got caught out in the rain on 9th avenue looking for a place to eat. originally we all wanted Thai but we couldn't make up or mind so my sibling's and I ended up at chipotle and my father and step mom ended up at some corner shop.

I started a kickboxing class at my gym and I am in love with the class. I never had so much fun at the gym in my life. I was pouring of sweat and my body was aching with pain but yet I still had the biggest smile on my face. I have taken abs classes in the past and I hated them but did them in the hopes of getting rock hard abs. In my kickboxing class I work all these different body parts in a fun but intensive way. It's every Tuesday and Thursday and I am going to try to make every class. Summer watch out here I come.

Another thing I missed about my apartment in new York were the elderly ladies who live in my building. Anytime I have a second I stay around to chat with them and they are so lovely with me. I think it's because I help them with there bags and groceries;) they were so excited when I got back and asked me a million questions which I thought was cute. Most of them know me by name and one of the ladies just calls me the nice boy from the top floor:) I call her mama since that's what everyone else calls her. Most of them women have been in there apartment for 30 plus years and have super cheap rent..... Like 600 dollars for a large 2 bedroom is unheard of in new York.

Hope all is well

Jonathan Vargas

NYC PRIDE WEEKEND

noreply@blogger.com (Jonathan Vargas) — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 15:35:00 +0000

I thought I would make a quick blog entry about Gay Pride Weekend before I forgot to post some of the videos up.
On Friday I met up with Cornell, Jonathan, and Miguel at The Dream Hotel for just a few drinks. I bumped into a few Australians that night and chit chatted. I didn't stay out long thou since I was tried and Saturday was going to be crazy.

On Saturday I went to my friend Alexia's Graduation lunch. Which was in queens. Then I went to my sisters and brothers graduation dinner afterwords. I was there till 10 then I went home and got ready for Roseland.

On Sunday I just rested for most of the night and Sunday night was insane. I went to Alegria on Sunday night with the crew and OMG the music was insane. I still cant get over it. It was the best Alegria I had ever been too. The place was packed all night long and everyone was just super festive. It was def one of the best parties with the best music and shows. The dancers and bartenders where stunning.

here are just a few video clips from sunday night
and a few pictures from Saturday and friday

Hope all is well
Jonathan Vargas

NYC UPDATE

noreply@blogger.com (Jonathan Vargas) — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 21:42:00 +0000

So I have been a little behind yet again on my blog. Its kinda shocking how you can just lose yourself with other little

things. To be honest I am not even sure where to begin since n

othing out of the ordinary has happened. Basically I have been seeing my friends and family and going out to eat a lot. Ill try to list things as I remember them....

Well, I am now happy to say that I am a proud owner of a Mac computer. I am in love with my little laptop. Its weightless, super fast, and so ascetically pleasing. I personally think that I would never go back to a PC unless they made some major improvements. Anytime I get on a PC I complain and get frustrated. The Mac is so easy to use and a lot more intuitive. I also uploaded a few pictures from my PC to my Mac and there is a huge difference with the picture quality. I cant believe I didn't get one before. Apple you have my business now. In addition I got a wireless printer for just 49 bucks after my mail in rebate (which I. Filed and claimed yesterday)

I also went to see my first Cirque De Soleil show. I have been wanting to see one of there shows ever since I went to Vegas and heard about them. The name of the show was Kooza and it was incredible. The core strength of the performers was unbelievable. I went with Cornell and his little sister. The tickets were originally $125 dollars for front row seats and we got the same seats for just $52. I really want to see the “O” show which is in Vegas and I hear is just spectacular. So I am going to be saving my pretty pennies for that.

So this is really gay but I thought I might as well..... I got tickets to g

o see Britney in August. I wouldn't say I am a big fan..... Yea she comes up with a couple of good songs but its nothing I would go crazy for. My friends kept telling me how great of a show she does so I thought I should take the opportunity to go see her. Besides I was able to get tickets before they went on sale because of my wonderful American Express Card. I am going with Alma, Yarenis, Alexia, and Erica.

Lets see what else can I tell you.... Its been raining in New York like crazy. I am actually getting annoyed. Oh I also just finished painting my room. It took me 2 days but its finally done. I we

nt with this amazing Ralph Lauren metallic teal paint for an accent wall and manhattan mist which is a grey for the ma

in color. I then changed the manhattan mist to an off-white since it kind of made me a little upset and home sick. It was similar to the colors I had back home in Sydney. Miguel helped me with my room which I thought was super sweet. Thanks Miguel

Wow now that I look back it seems like I did many little things. Anyway thats all for now... I still have to post up pictures from Mardi Gra and Ken’s visit to Sydney soon.

Hope all is well

Jonathan Vargas

I love this song :)

Ken in Sydney march 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Jonathan Vargas) — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 21:10:00 +0000

When I left New York to go to Sydney things were a little weird I would say between me and Ken. We were still living together even thou we had been broken up for about 8 months and I felt bad that I had moved on the way that I did. Ken was a wonderful boyfriend and there are many great qualities about him but the missing factor in our relationship was that I never really felt like he was my best friend. Having said that it was great to know that I could still count on him in being there for me (I just dont count on him for cleaning or picking up after himself, but thats another story)

While I was in Sydney and going through the break up Ken sent me a care package with magazine’s from New York, candy, gifts and a cute card. He was wonderful for doing that and I am very thankful for that. So when I asked him to come visit me in Sydney he didn't hesitate.

Ken arrived towards the end of March and he stayed for about 10 days. Its not a long enough visit but I made it work.

I am just going to list a few things that we did....

Went to dinner at Opium Din with Rauel.
Went to Luna park for the first time with and took the ferry over.
Went to Bondi Beach with Alex.
Nick and Jason invited me and Ken over for drinks
Went to dinner with Adrianna near the harbor bridge
Took Ken around the neighborhood
Had dinner at Napel with Dennis and then went to the movies.
Went to a house party with Ryan, and Wade.
Met up with Justin for a drink and dinner as well.
Took Ken to the night club and danced the night away

Actually I went out Saturday night with Ken and lost him for like 2 days. I didn't see him till Monday morning. I almost sent out a search crew. lol

Also ken bumped into a couple of people he knew from New York who have moved to Sydney.

Here are a few pictures from his trip down under

Hope all is well

Jonathan Vargas

Mardi Gra Sydney march 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Jonathan Vargas) — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 20:56:00 +0000

Here are the pictures that I had promised you all from the time Cornell visited me and we went and celebrated Mardi Gra. We had such an amazing time and met some great people. A few are from the parade, party, and after party........

Hope you guys enjoy:)

Jonathan Vargas

Hello Big Apple

noreply@blogger.com (Jonathan Vargas) — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 11:30:00 +0000

I am back in the Big Apple ....... so its been over a week since I have arrived from Sydney and wow how the city has changed. But let me start off with with my arrival and work my way around the other details.

I was lucky enough that my friend Alexia came to pick me up from the airport with my other cute friend Alma. They both looked just as cute from the last time I had seen them. We hugged and kissed and hugged some more and I told them about my flight. When I got home Cornell and Miguel were just a few blocks away and we met up at my house for a bit. I spoke to Erika and Hector to let them know I got in OK. Then Ken got home and he had little Welcome Home signs which were cute.

we then went over to Thai NY for dinner and it was a big group of us there. It was Me, Ken, Cornell, Miguel, Alma, Alexia, Erika, Hector, Jonathan, and Aaron. The food was alright but the company was perfect. It was really sweet that everyone there wanted to hear my stories and welcome me back to New York.

The next day which was Sunday I woke up early in the morning and went to my mother place so I could surprise her. I never told my mom which day I was coming back so that it would be a surprise. My sister let me in ( she looked so cute and big )

and I walked into my mother

s room. She was laying down.... she saw.... it took her a few seconds to process....and then like a crazy women jumped out of

bed and started jumping up and down kissing me lol. She was telling me how excited she was and that she had no idea i was coming. My mother looked so beautiful. It seems like she hasn't aged a bit. She looked exactly the same, if not better then went i left. We talked and chatted about Sydney and she cooked lunch for me. It felt good to see her and feel her warm hugs and kisses. I left my moms around 4pm and i went home so that I can get some sleep since there was a big party to go to that night.

Since it was memorial day weekend and my return my friends thought it would be fun to get festive and go to a party named Alegria. Lets just say that I had a blast!!! I caught up and saw tons of people I knew from before and I jiggled and wiggled all night long. Erika did her dance for me and hector gave us the loopy twirl lol.

Later in the week I joined Club H gym which is this gorgeous gym located only a block away from my apartment. Its luxuries like Equinox but at the NYSC price tag. I have gone for a work out twice and I love my gym. Its clean and beautiful and full of all the amenities I could possibly need. I LOVE CLUB H

That same week I went to dinner at Brandon’s place and can I just say that I love his apartment and his dog. We started off the evening with some wine and cheese platter which i thought was very classy of us.......... then a few hours later we did it college style and ordered a cheese pizza ........ good times good times

I also went to the pier this weekend and over to Uno in the meat packing district. I saw Big boy Erik Rhodes there with his Boyfriend Anthony who I actually met like 6 years ago. I took a few pictures so I hope you enjoy....

I still have a lot of catching up to do with friends and I am trying to fall in love with NYC once again to

o. One thing thats funny is that while I was away in Sydney I felt like it had been forever since I was in New york.... and now that I am here its Kinda feels like I never left. Not sure how to explain it.

Anyways that's all for now

Jonathan Vargas

PS ....My buddy Miguel works as a visual merchandiser at Saks 5Th ave and his work is amazing!!!!! Here is one of his displays in which he actually made the metal bugs HIMSELF. Miguel your so helping me out with my room.

What did I do to deserve this??? Mar 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Jonathan Vargas) — Thu, 14 May 2009 06:30:00 +0000

That’s what I ask myself every time I think about my friendship with Cornell. I have no idea what I did to deserve such a loving, honest, nurturing, funny, supportive, intelligent, creative friend like Cornell. It had been 9 months since I last saw Cornell and I was so nervous in seeing him again. Have we changed? Will it be the same or will it be weird? Will we still like one another and laugh all the time? That’s all I thought about when I walked over to meet him during my lunch break. I remember seeing him on the Corner of Park and George street and feeling my heart race just a little bit. He saw me and smiled and I smiled and from that very moment I knew NOTHING HAD CHANGED.

Me and Cornell were once again a duo that no one could mess with. I took him over to my favourite sandwich spot (big bite) and walked over to the harbour for a sit down. I have no idea what we laughed about but we just laughed and laughed and laughed. I have come to terms that whenever me and Cornell are around one another we act like 10 year old boys. We are super childish and just make the most out of any situation. We laugh at ourselves and at other people. We talk about our past trips and laugh about that. My mission for Cornell while he was in Sydney was to make sure he had an amazing time. I wanted him to meet all the people that I had become friends with.

Cornell trip to Sydney wasn’t just to have fun and see how Kangaroos get down and dirty. He came down to also help build me up again. I was still feeling really low and I had lost a lot of weight because of the break up. I would cry all the time and anytime I saw a “happy” couple I would just get into the wrong head space. I just felt a lot of pain inside and to me I felt like I had lost my bestfriend. The good news is that because of the break-up I had forced myself to go out and meet people and build friendships. Build on existing and new ones. Cornell timing was perfect. He always knew the right thing to say. He was there when I needed a hug. He pumped me back up with food and nutrition. I just felt really good when he was near by.

Anyways Cornell had a blast in Sydney and we did way to many things to possibly write about so instead I am going to make a list of things we did while he was here. Its not in order but who cares and this doesn’t include Mardi Gra.

1: We took a ferry over to the zoo and saw koalas and kangaroos’.

2: I cooked dinner for him and Christians house (I know we broke up but I still went over) long story

3: We went over to Kenny’s house for dinner. (Cornell liked Kenny and Kenny really liked Cornell)

4: went to the movies with my good friend Dennis and Stephanie (we saw slum dog millionaire which is amazing)

5: We went to dinner in surrey hills with my Citigroup friend Raoul and also to Bondi beach for dessert.

6: Went to Cronulla to have dinner at Steve and Wayne’s place. (The salad they made was amazing)

7: went to have breakfast at boy Charlton pool

8: went to breakfast with Kenny and Ben. Then we did the Coogee to Bondi walk and then got sunbaked at the beach

9: Had after work drinks at Cruise bar with Cam, Wayne, Steve, and Justin

10: Cornell went to the Chinese Gardens

11: Had after work drinks with my buddy Ruslan.

12. We walked around Paddington, Rushcutters bay, Surry hills.

Ok so the list is getting long and I can’t remember every detail since I have a horrible memory. Cornell was in Sydney for 12 days and I still left out all of Mardi Gra Weekend. So stay tuned because that is coming up next:

Enjoy
Jonathan Vargas

This is Our Sydney song

Steve's Birthday Feb 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Jonathan Vargas) — Thu, 14 May 2009 04:33:00 +0000

Being late is never cute FYI!!!! Back in February Steve invited me and a few of his friends for a birthday dinner at darling harbours Waggamamma. As always I got there right in time. If anything I had 2 minutes to spare. I bumped into rock star Justin and we both waited for Steve and Wayne to arrive. I had just spoken to them both and they said they were only a few blocks away. An hour later they finally appeared grrrr. I hate it when people are late and especially when they lie about where they are. Anyways it was Steve’s birthday so I let it go this time.

Waggamamma is a large chain-restaurant here in Sydney. I can’t say I was impressed by the food and that’s probably why I allowed myself to drink so much. That and the wine was super nice. The conversation at dinner was interesting and everyone was enjoying themselves. We later then walked over to another bar and that’s when things got crazy. Justine ended up ordering like 15 bottles of wine and everyone but me was playing these fun drinking games. I stopped drinking since I was already feeling funny and wanted to sober up. Especially since we were going to a club after and I hate feeling blah.

Later that night we ended up at this club named Chinese laundry…. It was off the hook!!! The music was sick and the beats were just kicking my ass…. I loved it. It was one of the best nights here in Sydney when it came to music. The crowd was a different story. I wanted to take my top off since I did get hot but it was a str8 club and the hetros would have probably looked at me funny. In the end the night was fun and we all had a good time.

Here are a few pictures that I have taken of my area when I have walked around. Its not much but I thought it was cute

Enjoy
Jonathan Vargas