they grow up so fast...

I just spent the last 15 minutes outside my parents house, sitting on the front porch with my brother, chatting. He starts school Monday...college. Wow. Just yesterday he was a lil chubby kid starting preschool. Now he's an 18 year old working guy about to start college.

I asked if he was excited; he shook his head no. I asked if he was nervous; he said, "I'm scared as f*ck." When I asked him why he said, "Because it's going to be hard. I'm going to have to balance school with work and other stuff." Then I opened my mouth, and my father's voice came out: "Welcome to the real world, hon."

RJ's going to Renken (sp?) for auto mechanics, is now working at O'Reilly's auto parts, and wants to open a mechanic / auto body shop when he graduates. I love the kid to death, and I remember feeling like he did when I started college. He's under the impression that I had it easy, and when I explained to him that I went to school full time, worked full and over time, plus fitting in time for 3 to 4 shows a year, he still thought his experience will be harder. "Well, I'll be working on cars and stuff; I'll be really tired." "Yea," I responded, "but even though you'll be spending all your time working on cars, I spent all my time with my nose in books." I'm really excited and happy for him, but at the same time, it's kinda sad. My "little brother" is growing up. Fast. He even just recently got his LICENSE. It's REALLY bizarre riding in the passenger seat and letting HIM drive for a change when we hang out. I know he'll be fine, though. He's got an amazing amount of talent when it comes to that kind of stuff, and he's smart as hell...as long as he puts his mind to it and doesn't take the easy road. Best of luck to ya, RJ.

Off the subject, a bunch of the "Cats" cast got together at Syberg's. I hadn't really been out out in a while, and it was a welcome release. What a great group of people; I'm so honored to have been a part of that show and that whole experience. We all had a great time, laughing, eating, and drinking. Next weekend we're all going to Applebee's for dinner, and then to Joie's show at the Grey Fox. I can't wait!!!