January 20, 2010

Jaws of Steel

I went to the dentist on the 11th for my biannual cleaning and checkup. My teeth are sensitive and sometimes cleanings can be painful. This time, I took four generic acetominophens before hand. Add a new hygienist with the magic touch. The cleaning wasn't so bad.

I told her that my jaw has been clicking lately, so she told me to wait and talk to the dentist. The clicking, it turns out, is related to my clenching. I clench my teeth when I sleep.

The dentist informed me that I am the Arnold Schwarzenegger of jaw clenchers because of my pronounced jaw muscles which he pointed out gave me a masculine appearance. He suggested I get a bite protector. And to reduce the size of my jaw, he suggested Botox. For this, I would have to pay $1000 because he would have to use one vile vial.

The insurance will most likely pay for the bite protector. Using that, my muscles will shrink in time.

Can you imagine? Botox?

Has anyone else had a similar experience?

January 10, 2010

The Bartender Who Likes Reading

Last week, I was working my theater job, reading a book during Act I. A young bartender came up to me and asked me what I was reading. It just so happens that I was reading Hell Is Other Parents. I described it to him briefly and then he told me that he only recently acquired the ability to read a book through to the end. He's been reading non-stop for the last year.

He explained to me that about a year ago he had himself tested for ADD. He was prescribed a medication and for the first time in his life he could enjoy reading.

His inability to read well caused him to drop out of high school. Now in his early 30's he is earning his GED. He has a good friend working with him on math and he's been taking practice tests so he can be ready for the his big exam in April.

I was so interested in speaking with him, I kept asking him questions - about his family; about his life - and he answered every one. Sadly our conversation had to end because Act I was almost finished. He had to set up his bar and I had to stand by my headset console.

January 09, 2010

Should I or Shouldn't I

Things are happening around me again. For a long time they weren't, hence the incredibly large spaces of times between posts.

The question remains, should I or shouldn't I revive this blog? I wrote about myself for a long time, so long that I got tired of writing about myself.

That feeling hasn't exactly worn off, but I do feel a growing need to share again.

What do you think?