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July 31, 2007

Looking Good

"You Look Great....So Do You"

by Buzzed Beef

Buzzed Beef

Greetings Bears! I want to take a moment to share a personal experience with you. This past Friday, I was on my way to the gym after work, when I decided to stop by one of the local thrift shops and check out their book selections (I'm a whore for a good book, but I refuse to pay retail). As I walked in, I noticed a man from my gym browsing the tee shirt rack. He is a rather good-looking man, fairly lean and nicely muscled. Other than a couple of 'hellos' arranged by a mutual gym friend, we've never actually spoken at length. I decided to be friendly. So I walked over and said hello and we engaged in small talk, mostly about the gym and the weekend (Dore Alley), for a few minutes. As I parted his company, I offered a compliment. I said simply, "you look great." He smiled and replied, "so do you." I walked away...there was no follow-up. Nothing else needed to be said, but what he said was enough. I floated on his compliment for the rest of the day. I honestly believe it helped fuel my workout that evening. Sometimes we all need those kudos and positive reinforcements. A kind word can go a long way.

So it's Sunday afternoon now. I am just home from my training session. And what an incredible training session it was! A few years ago, a bodybuilder friend of mine advised me of a mantra in the lifting world: "If you aren't doing squats, then you aren't lifting weights." My trainer is a follower of this philosophy as well. He makes sure that at least one of my sessions each week is devoted to squats and other leg work. I must confess that I enjoy doing them. I feel very strong and my legs and buttocks are responding nicely (new jock strap pics, anyone?). The best part about today's leg workout: I increased my squat weight by another five pounds. It may not sound like much, but Rome wasn't built in a day and neither is a musclebear. I'm learning that making small advances and setting reachable short-term goals are integral to accomplishing the larger, long-term goals.



In just over a month, I'll turn 35. It's taken me all these years to finally realize that instant gratification is not always where it's at. I honestly believe that half the fun is getting there. And I am having a lot of fun watching my muscles grow and seeing the shape of my body change. A month ago, my size 36 jeans were snug..now, they are hanging off me. I've reached the next to last hole in my belt. Soon, I won't be able to cinch it up any tighter. Am I happy about that? You bet! Am I where I want to be yet? No way! Will I ever reach a point where I want to say "this is as far as I am going to go"? I can't answer that. I just know that I don't ever want to stop trying and reaching. I hope you believe that about yourself as well.



Until next time,

Hugs (and licks if you want 'em)

 

p. s. A big 'THANK YOU' to Mike and "The Complete Bear" for including my picture in their ad in this year's Lazy Bear program book. It's an honor to be a part of your web site and to represent the bear community.

Posted by SFBrawnyBear at 11:29 AM | | Comments (1) | TrackBacks (0)

July 29, 2007

Sleep And The Bear Gay Community

What is Sleep apnea?

By Barry Aneda

Sleep apnea is a sleep breathing disorder that causes severe sleep deprivation by interrupting sleep and collapsing the windpipe. This occurs because of a build up of extra tissue in the neck area from weight gain. Men tend to gain weight in their neck and have thicker, heavier necks. When we fall asleep our muscles relax throughout our body. When our throat muscles relax the weight of the neck, along with attempting to inhale causes the windpipe to collapse and become blocked. When this occurs the individual must wake up to regain his muscle tone in order to open the windpipe and breathe. This occurs for just about three seconds before returning to sleep and usually the individual is unaware of waking. However, some individuals may have awareness that their sleep is very restless. They may even wake up coughing from a dry throat. The number one sign that one may have sleep apnea is snoring. Everyone that has sleep apnea snores. However, everyone that snores may not have sleep apnea. Additionally, if one’s neck is greater than 17 inches then there is a greater risk of having or developing sleep apnea.

Sleep apnea can be very dangerous as it deprives the body of oxygen and results in chronic sleep deprivation and disease if not treated. Symptoms such as morning headaches, loss of sex drive and a decline in mental overall functioning (loss of concentration, memory deficits, etc.) could be signs that you have sleep apnea. Sleep deprivation clearly also has an effect on our mood and can lead to experiencing symptoms of depression and irritability. This can affect your performance at work and/or your personal relationships with your partner(s) and family. Additionally, sleep apnea can put one in a higher risk category for stroke, hypertension, and heart attack. It also can suppress the immune system influencing how efficiently the body fights infection. Thus, sleep apnea can lead to an increase in one’s viral load and decrease T-cells if HIV positive. 

Learn More

Barry Aneda is a National Certified Counselor and a Licensed Associate Counselor working with our GLBTQ community in the field of Addictions and HIV/AIDS.

For more information you can visit him at http://www.barryaneda.com. To visit him at his virtual office, simply click the link titled Visit My Virtual Office.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Barry_Aneda

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Bear, Bath & Beyond?

Bear BathA complete line of bear furnishings to adorn your bathroom.  Towels, fixtures - even a toilet flush.

All you need to do is add a furry companion, and you are all set. 

Bear Bath Accessories

 

Posted by SFBrawnyBear at 11:32 AM | | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

July 27, 2007

Mr. Bear San Diego 2007

Mr. Bear San Diego 2007

Ron Brundige – Mr. Bear San Diego 2007

TCB: Hey Ron.  Well let’s start at the beginning, tell us a little bit about you.

Mr. Bear: I was born and raised in Texas, and came to San Diego in 1978 when I joined the Navy. I served in the Navy for 10 years and felt a need for change, but I wanted to stay in San Diego, so I switched jobs and some 30 years later still make San Diego my home.

I will be 50 this coming September, as well as celebrating 30 years at a job I love.

TCB: And how did you make your way to the bear community?

Mr. Bear:  I am fairly new to the bear world.  I came out in 1978, and pretty much landed in the middle of the disco years.  You know, Saturday Night Fever and all.   Shortly after coming out, I found the leather community, and identified with them.  I was in a relationship for 18 years that ended about 4 years ago, so now I’m single.So, I was out there looking again - trying to figure out where I fit in.  I was in my forties, I didn’t have a six pack, I didn’t live at the gym – I was having a hard time being forty something trying to re-enter the dating pool.

I was at Pride, and I saw the Bears of San Diego and thought “OMG - that’s me!”  I went to several of their dinners, and felt like I found a home.

Portraits of Pride

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July 26, 2007

A Question of Monogamy


Bear Couple When I first started sniffing around bears, a friend offered some sweeping generalizations about my furry brethren. It included that golden nugget that all bears are in open relationships to some degree or another. Really? All bears? Even the cubs?

As with most sweeping generalizations, you can't really apply to all. But now, I was curious. Where exactly did my furry mates weigh in on the subject? So, I asked.

I got responses from over 400 bears to be exact. Here's what they told me -

  • 37% said "Exclusive one on one - the only way a relationship will work for me. . ."
  • 34% said "An open relationship is cool, as long as everyone upfront and honest. . ."
  • 10% said "We play, but only together - never alone. . ."
  • 6% said "Don't Ask, Don't Tell"
  • 6% said "Roll me in honey, and throw me to the bears. . ."
  • 3% said "As long as there are rules - no sleepovers, no repeats . . ."

This was never a question about right or wrong, but simply what works for you. And for those who choose to dabble, it was overwhelmingly about honesty. Yea, some set up rules like no sleepovers, no repeats, etc - but what seemed to work is when both parties were on the same page.

The problem is when there are opposing views - he wants monogamy and you want all the man flesh you can find. Is he right? Are you? No - but you have a problem. If you are a monogamous kinda guy and lover boy is still playing the field - you're gonna get hurt.

This is about open and frank dialogue. And even a little soul searching. Can you live with his choice? Can he live with yours? I can honestly tell you that some of the most committed couples I know have open relationships. And for others, it is never an option.

Bear Life 

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July 25, 2007

Beardise XIII

Bearadise XIII

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July 24, 2007

Bumps in the Road

by Buzzed Beef

Greetings Bears! As with any journey, you have to deal with bumps in the road while enjoying the sights. This is something I have faced recently. The last two weeks on my quest have been filled with both positive and negative experiences. But life is filled with frustrations and setbacks, we deal with them and we move on.

 

Bear Fitness


My training has suffered some during the last two weeks. Due to short staffing at my job, I was forced to work additional hours each day and voluntary gave up a day off. As a result, I was both physically and mentally exhausted at the end of each day. So tired, in fact, that I could not bring myself to keep my regular gym and boxing schedule. I made it to the gym only 4 times and to my boxing class only once in almost two weeks. This is down from 5 days at the gym and 3 boxing classes each week. I was extremely disappointed in myself, yes, but these things happen sometimes...just going to keep plugging away and resume with a vengeance.

Read On

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July 23, 2007

Do these socks make me look butch?

 Oh, it's gonna take a lot more than the socks!

The Complete Bear Socks Looking for the right socks for boots?

The claw let's 'em know you are all bear. WOOF!

Sensura provides abraision resistance for continual durability wash after wash.

These socks have a moisture management system, channeling perspiration and moisture out of the sock where it can quickly evaporate, helping keep your feet dry.

And, they are as soft as a cub's pelt.

The Complete Bear Socks

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July 21, 2007

Andrew Sullivan goes to PTown

and discovers the essence of bears . . .

I have mixed feelings about Mr. Sullivan, but admittedly he does a nice job explaining the bear phenomenon.

The End Of Bear Week

"What's it about? In part a celebration of mature masculinity - untweaked, unshaven, full-bellied masculinity. Simultaneously, it's an attempt to subvert a little of that masculinity. The atmosphere is almost aggressively gentle, good-humored, accepting, and friendly. These are not men trying to impress anyone, nor trying to throw their considerable weight around. Mostly over forty, these men are not traumatized by having a gut or some flab. They're not afraid that back-hair tumbles over their collar. They're not afraid to embrace their sexual orientation as fully as their gender.  . ."

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July 20, 2007

Fotos by Michio

Bear Photos

We wanted to introduce to Michio, an E. Providence photographer.

 My style of photography is to capture the guy next door type of hairy bears and cubs. all my models are amatur.

I prefer colored photos more than black & white and I prefer outdoor photos more than indoor photo with backdrop.

I started to taking photography seriously in 2002 after joined Liberty Bears of Philadelphia club.

I shot lot of photos for club social and bear events. My club brothers persuaded me and supported my photography. My works were published in American Bear, American Grizzly, Big Men's Quarterly and 100% Beef magazines.

Unfortunately most of those magazines are no longer existed. I am doing freelance work for 100% Beef magazine now.

I was chosen to be in charity art show with other 24 artists at Philadelphia on 2002, had show at Bear Cafe in NYC on 2003. Les Wrights from Bear History Projects saw my website through Bear Cafe and asked me if I was interested in being featured artist on 2004. I had show for Furball dancing in NYC on 2005.

You can find out more about me. Please check out my website at www.fotobymichio.com  or non bear site at www.digitalpassion.us

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July 19, 2007

LuckyBearWeekend.07

Lucky Bear Weekend
LuckyBearWeekend.07
October 5-8, 2007
 

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July 18, 2007

Bear Shorts

An der NordseeküsteShorts from the Vermont Bear Film Festival

Overall, we liked the DVD.  Husbear and I sat down to watch the shorts with little expectations of what to expect.  As with any collection from a film festival, some you love, some not much.  And, which ones depend on your tastes. 

The collection offers a wide range from woofy fisherman finding true love (lust?) on the North Sea set to an old German drinking song to a peak into the Faerie Culture to young lust over a neighbor’s dad.  Our favorite was PAW Award winner Avec des Excuses á Alfred (Hitchcock would approve).

The collection provides a nice cross section of the bear community including a historic interview with Allen Ginsberg, a peak into various periods of bear history and a few light, amusing moments. 

Vermont Bear Film Festival DVD

LGBT Film Festivals

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July 17, 2007

Up to Speed

BeefGreetings!  Over a month has passed since The Complete Bear asked me to write this blog and share my experiences with you.  The last 3 articles were devoted to telling you a bit about me and to allow you to get to know me and my mind sets.  Today, I want to jump forward in time to the present and bring you up to speed on this bear's quest for fitness.  From this point forward, I am going to keep you current on what I am doing and how I am progressing.

Probably the most significant decision I have made was to hire a personal trainer--an expense, yes, but a necessary and justifiable one.  He has put me on track.  He's developed an effective workout regimen for me.  He has created a satisfying and nutritious diet that is simple, straight-forward, and easy to follow.  Should you hire a trainer?  That is a decision you will have to make for yourself.  But for me, it was the best decision.  He helped bring a lot of order to the chaos.  Will I use his services forever?  No, but I needed his expertise to put me on the right path to achieve my goals.

Now let's talk about weightlifting.  Currently, I am focusing on compound lifts that work each muscle group as a whole.   Squats (legs/butt/whole body)....Barbell Bench Presses (chest)....Biceps Curls (biceps)....Bent-Over Rows (back)....Skull crushers (triceps)....Seated Calf Raises (calves)....and Barbell Shoulder Presses (shoulders).   I am not doing any isolation exercises.  The exercises I am doing all involve moving the weight up and down in a straight line against gravity.  The one exception is the Biceps Curls which follow a slight arcing motion allowed by the natural bending of the arms.  In addition to the lifting, I am doing Roman Chair Crunches and some additional ab movements to work the entire abdominal region as a whole.

Moving on to the dreaded subject of cardio.....I don't know about you, but personally, riding a stationary bike or climbing an imaginary staircase is boring to me.  So, I've opted not to engage in those exercises as part of my exercise routine.  Cardio is important and I have decided to go about it in a very aggressive manner.  I have taken up boxing classes.  Yes, boxing classes.  What a powerhouse workout!!!  An hour of rope-jumping, pushups, lunges, jump squats, jumping jacks, shadow-boxing and heavy bag work just to name a few.  At the end of my hour, my entire body is drenched in sweat...I can take my tee-shirt off and literally wring the sweat out of it.  Hot, no? It feels great, I feel great.  It's one of those workouts where you really feel as though you have done something when you are through.  It is far and away one of the best decisions I have ever made for myself.

So, has any of this done anything for me you are wondering?  YES!  To date, I have lost....Drum Roll please.........20 pounds (ok, ok, 19 pounds, but it's so close and it feels so good to say 20!).  My clothes fit better.  I feel better.  I look better.  Those things in themselves are powerful motivators, but the greatest thing is having someone else just ask me, out of the blue, "are you losing weight?"  I proudly reply in the affirmative.  And it is only going to get better.  I hope you are feeling it too.

Posted by Buzzed Beef at 02:20 PM | | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

July 15, 2007

Hunting for Bears

Hot & Heavy

I have a sweet tooth for bears. Yes, I like my men with meat on their bones, and if they have hair all over… woof, even better (and don’t get me started with a hairy back)!

Usually, when I see bears in bars or hotels, they are always in groups. Most of the times they are laughing and having a very good time. The main reason why I like them? Because they seem to be comfortable in their own skin, and what the heck, because they turn me on!

 

Any advice on how to break into a group or how to approach a bear?

Alex (hungry and on the prowl in Los Angeles)

 

Hot: Have you tried dangling meat?

 

Heavy: Oh be careful, remember that poor little thing that got in the way of the buffet table at our last outing? I don’t think he was ever seen again.

 

Hot: I thought he was an appetizer. Here are some basic rules about bears:

 

  • Do not approach a bear's food. Or his beer.
  • Never try to corner a bear for any reason. You may be blocking their view of a cute cub.
  • Don't Feed the Bears - Never attempt to feed a wild bear without their Huzbear's approval.
  • Each bear has a different temperament - Some bears will attack, others will not. Some bears are scared of chasers, others have a natural curiosity.
  • Respect the Bear Bar - Remember you are in its home. It may look cute and cuddly, but don't try to pet it unless you get permission.

 

Heavy: But, what if he wants one of his own?

 

Hot: Well forget it if he’s in a group setting, unless you really like challenges and entertaining people. Your attempts will be fodder for years to come and you never know if Huzbear is among the crowd. If the target of your affections should breakaway from the group - say to go off to dance on his own or does a bar lap – then he is approachable.

 

Heavy: And once you have Mr. Woofy’s attention, just be you. Be polite and don’t grope uninvited. Often, bears are just as afraid as you are. “Gee, I never thought a cute guy like you would like a big, ole bear like me . . .”

 

Hot: And if you are not good in public settings, try a personal ad. Many bears love chasers, all you have to do is put it out there.

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July 12, 2007

Camp Oregon Bears - September 13-16, 2007

Camp Oregon BearsAnnual - Camp Oregon Bears


Held in mid-September (Thursday – Sunday)
Held yearly, the bears head out into the woods in the mountains or the coast and commune with nature. Meals are shared, our traditional furry face and buns contest... this event grows every year and has become a big hit for bears from all over!


For more information, write to campout@oregonbears.org or check out their webpage.

 

Bear Calendar 

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Matthew Shepard Act On Senate Floor

 

Matthew Shepard Act On Senate Floor - Make One Last Call Before the Vote!

The Mathew Shepard Hate Crimes Prevention Act (S. 1105) would add Sexual Orientation, Gender, Gender Identity, and Disability to the current Hate Crimes statutes. The bill would give local law enforcement more resources to prosecute and prevent violent crimes committed against a person because of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Call Your Senators Today!

CALL BOTH YOUR SENATORS RIGHT NOW:

Call both your Senators by dialing the Capital switch board at (202) 224-3121.

For each office, tell the staffer who answers:
  • As a constituent, and a supporter of the Human Rights Campaign, I hope the Senator will vote YES on the Matthew Shepard Act (S. 1105).
  • I hope the Senator understands that this bill does NOT threaten free speech or weaken the Constitution.
  • This bill would only apply to violent attacks based on the victim's gender, sexual orientation, disability or gender identity.
  • It would also provide funding to help law enforcement agencies investigate and prosecute violent hate crimes. This legislation has been endorsed by over 230 civic, religious, and law enforcement organizations.
  • I hope the Senator will do the right thing and vote YES on S. 1105 when it comes to a vote.

To find your senators' names, visit: http://www.senate.gov/general/contact_information/senators_cfm.cfm

Posted by SFBrawnyBear at 09:41 AM | | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

July 11, 2007

Warm & Fuzzy

Denali ThrowCold nights in the cabin? 

  Not with this plush throw. 

Softer and warmer than fleece, these unique throws are made from an innovative fabric twenty years in the making. Called Microplush®, this hi-tech pile fabric is knitted with a very fine denier acrylic fiber making it light, soft and comfortable to touch. Machine washable, Microplush® is naturally water resistant, colorfast and stain, odor and mildew resistant. Denali Microplush® throws are said to "feel like a hug".

Denali's fine acrylic MicroPlush bedding is machine washable and made in the USA. Denali uses a 60" center of patterned fabric with coordinating solid color drops on each side. Our bedspreads are then backed in a coordinating solid fabric.

What a wonderful way to end your day...in the warmth of Denali bedding.

Denali Plush Throw

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July 10, 2007

Now we get down to the nitty-gritty

Buzzed BeefWhen I decided to commit to my fitness pursuits, I had a big problem. It wasn't when I was going to start, it wasn't what gym I was going to go to, and it wasn't what I was going to wear. No, my problem was getting over myself. "oh god, everyone is going to be looking at me.....everyone is going to be laughing at me.....they are going to be judging me....what is this BEAR doing in a gym?....he's making a fool of himself." I was convinced all this was going to happen. Well, guess what? No one paid any attention to me. Everyone was going about their business, doing what they were there to do. And then something snapped and I realized EVERYONE has their first day in the gym. None of those guys were born there...none of them magically appeared inside. They ALL had to walk into that gym for the very first time once upon a time.

 

I realized something else even more important during that first day in the gym: These guys were there to improve their bodies and their lives, whatever their own reasons for that might be. And I admired them greatly for that. Then it occurred to me: they just might view me in the same light. Instead of laughing at me, they could be applauding me for making an important decision to make my life better. The bodies at my gym may cross the spectrum, but we are actually a lot more alike than I had ever considered.



There is something fearful about stepping into a world where you feel you don't belong. I took that step and I feel incredible about it. The men I feared would scrutinize me have welcomed me. I've even made some new friends. We're really all on the same journey.



A verse in a popular folk song tells us "so many things I would have done, but clouds got in my way." Pick out the clouds that are in your way...take a deep breath...hold your chest and head high and exhale strongly, blowing those clouds away and walk through that door. You'll be so much better for it.



Until next time,

Hugs (and licks if you want 'em)

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July 09, 2007

Lazy Bear Weekend

Lazy Bear WristbandLazybear Weekend

 

For 13 years, Lazy Bear Weekend has celebrated fun, fur and friendship.  Bears, Cubs, Otters will be descending on the River starting August 1st through the 6th.   Check out the Lazy Bear Website, as well as the full schedule of activities. 

 

Lazy Bear Weekend, founded in 1995 (the Lazy Bear Fund was officially founded in 2005), is a not-for-profit organization committed to helping and supporting a diversity of outreach and educational programs which benefit our brothers and sisters in the LGBT community.    Beneficiaries include:

 

  • Desert AIDS Project
  • Sister of Perpetual Indulgence (Guerneville chapter)
  • Under One Roof
  • AIDS Emergency Fund
  • Breast Cancer Emergency Fund
  • Marin AIDS Project
  • Positive Resource Center-SF 

Can’t get to the River?  The Lazy Bear Wristband will let those that see it know that the bearer supports Lazy Bear fundraising efforts, all year round.  The bands are available for $10.   All proceeds go to the Lazy Bear Fund, a non-profit (501c3) organization.

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July 08, 2007

Living on the Edge


Gardener I AM CONFUSED. LATELY I HAVE BEEN HEARING A LOT OF MY FRIENDS AND PEOPLE ON THE INTERNET REFER TO EDGING. I HAVE BEEN A SEXUALLY ACTIVE SINCE AMERICAN BEAR MAGAZINE PUT OUT ITS FIRST COLOR EDITION. I ASKED PEOPLE WHO STATED THEY PRACTICED IT. THEY EXPLAINED THAT IT WAS HOLDING OFF AN ORGASM. I AM CONFUSED BECAUSE I ALWAYS THOUGHT THAT WAS FOREPLAY. ARE EDGING AND FOREPLAY ONE IN THE SAME?? HAS MY BEAR STATUS GONE FROM BEAR TO SQUARE?

Heavy: Edging is when the journey is more fun than the destination. It is the postponement of orgasm, especially at the hands of someone else, prolonging the ecstasy to near-agony levels. A good top can bring the bottom right to the edge, then not allow him to cum until he's begging for release.

Hot: Yes, but one wrong move and you've got a sticky mess on your hands. . . And the sheets and the headboard!!

Heavy: You're a quick study. And the difference between edging and foreplay is that edging is the main event. It is the focus of the play. Where as foreplay is the warm up to another activity. Also, remember edging is different than edge play. Edge play is a term referring to "on the edge" S/M play. Be careful what you ask for, you might be in for a big surprise.

Hot & Heavy 

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July 07, 2007

Save Your Ass!

Save Your Ass - Stay Informed!

Oral sex

 Save Your Ass

How riskuy is oral sex? 

 

 

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July 06, 2007

BEAROPOLIS 2007

Spreebären - BEAROPOLIS 2007

BearoplisBear Meeting of the Spreebären:

August 30 - Septembear 2, 2007

Let's make Bearlin a bearish metropolis.

So join our Bear Meeting and help us doing this.
We are looking forward to your visit.

The Spreebären from Bearlin

Bearopolis

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What will the bear in the know be wearing this summer?

Leather sarongIt summer, so it must be bear season. 

What will you be wearing to Lazy Bear this year? 

Leather Sarong Perfect for the Woods, the Beach,  or around the cabin!

Sarong 42" x 60"

Leather Pride Sarong

Posted by SFBrawnyBear at 10:43 AM | | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

July 04, 2007

Bear Week Provincetown - July 7-14, 2007

Provincetown Bear Week

It's Bear Week in Provincetown, MA hosted by the Provincetown Bears.

Check out their site for all the details and here for their galleries.

Pre-registration is closed however, as they mention on their website, "it is still possible to attend most of the events on the schedule by paying a cover at the door".

Posted by SFBrawnyBear at 09:59 AM | | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

July 02, 2007

Buzzed Beef - This is Me

This is me . . .

Buzzed BeefWhen I was a child, I learned that it is always best to start at the beginning.  As I grew older, experiences taught me that people, myself included, don't always do the best thing.  None of us can go back in time and make different decisions to change our present lives.  But we can make informed decisions now to create the best possible futures for all of us.   This is what I am trying to do and I want to help you do the same. 

Everyone's goals are different...everyone's lives are different...everyone does what they need to do and what is best for them.  It's all about choices.  I'm here to share my choices with you and impart information that can help you make your own best choices for your own best life. 

So when does this guy stop rambling and start talking about bear fitness?  Well, I have and haven't been.  As I stated in my first article, this isn't an advice column, nor is it "Your Personal Workout Program Designed By A Total Stranger Who Knows Nothing About Your Life." 

I wanted to take some time to let you get to know me a little and get a little insight on my thought processes.  I have been speaking in broader, general terms, but I assure you that things will get a lot more specific.  I want this to be a forum where I can share my thoughts and fears and dreams.  Hopefully some of my insecurities and some of my goals will mirror yours.  I have no illusions that everyone will find useful what I have to say....I know that I cannot appeal to every audience.  But I hope that by following my journey, perhaps you will find a kindred spirit and take something positive away with you.  

Until next time...... 

Hugs (and licks if you want 'em)

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July 01, 2007

"The Donald and Larry King Don't Find Me Sexually Attractive"

Lions and Tigers and Bears True Colors Tourand Dykes and Trannies and Rosie O'Donnell . . .  OH MY!

Husbear and I made our way to Berkeley for Cyndi Lauper’s True Colors Tour.  This is a big deal because we rarely cross the bridge.  Woo Hoo - road trip.  OK, it was more 30 minutes in traffic.

Cyndi Lauper, Erasure, Deborah Harry, Dresden Dolls, Margaret Cho and our favorite bear of all time – Rosie O’Donnell!  The crowd was great – young, old, gay, lesbian, trans, queer, bears, dykes, butch, fem – very cool.  We ran into a couple of friends, but we rarely get to spend a night out together with our busy life, so we ventured off by ourselves.  There was eye candy and fashion victims for days. 

As we made our way inside, the Dresden Dolls were already playing and we caught the last 3 numbers.  Husbear liked them, and they sort of reminded me of an edgy Tori Amos. 

Margret Cho filled in between acts as MC.  “Oh My God, she is so thin . . .”   I thought I had a lot of clothes - you know the remember when jeans (that I keep dreaming I’ll get back into), my current size, and the winter hibernation wear (you know the slightly bigger sizes you’d rather not admit to), but Margeret’s closet must have the entire collection from the Kate and Ashley Anorexic Line to Rosie’s Big Girl WalMart Line.

Speaking of Rho, she was great.  She proudly proclaimed “Real women weigh over 200 pounds!”  The crowd ate it up (pun intended!).  On a recent Larry King Show, she noted the Trump and King discussed how they didn’t find her sexually attractive – “Imagine my disappointment . . .”  She also expounded on the joys of stretch pants. 

Deborah Harry was pushing a new album and only did new songs.  WTF?  If you haven’t had a hit in over 20 years, you can pretty much guess we are not here to hear the “new stuff.” 

But Erasure and Lauper knew the rules and there were plenty of trips back to the 80’s.  Andy Bell couldn’t have been gayer.  Honestly, the man is way gay - he danced, he skipped, he pirouetted - throw in a laser light show and you are definitely over the rainbow.

Cyndi Lauper topped off the evening.  “How Ya Doin’?”  She talked about Rho (they’re buddies apparently) she played guitar (who knew?) and she pretty much covered the “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun” album (Note to Deborah Harry – this what you do, you play songs we can sing along to, it makes us happy).  And Cyndi reminded us this was a HRC sponsored event – had we somehow not noticed the giant HRC banners.  She also acknowledged PFLAG, The Matthew Shepard Foundation and made a plea for us to write our legislators about The Matthew Shepard Act which includes LGBT protections in pending legislation on Hate Crimes.  Music and a social conscieousness - it was a gay event!

The finale was all the acts coming together to sing True Colors. 

We had a gay ole time.

Posted by SFBrawnyBear at 03:07 PM | | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)