T-shirt #243: COLD LAKE, ALTA. (AB)

I think this one will most likely go down as the tightest shirt of my collection, but I’ve had it on all day with no breathing problems. This is another one my nephew picked out with my older sister…thanks again, you two!

I must confess, I had never heard of Cold Lake when I got this shirt. Google helped me out a bit, and I found some information here http://www.coldlake.com and here http://www.coldlake.worldweb.com if you’re interested in learning.

I wore this shirt today because it was day #2 with the nephews and niece. We went to Friendly’s today with Nan and Grandpa, and the money from yesterday’s lemonade stand was well spent. Each of the youngsters enjoyed a Cookie Jar Sundae after lunch, which is a treat I will admit I had difficulty not trying myself: Here are the layers: Cookie Dough ice cream, crushed Oreos and Chips Ahoy, hot fudge, chocolate chips, with whipped topping, more chocolate chips, and a cherry on top (which all 3 ordered without). All three were satisfied with them as a great way to end their summer vacation. And for once, Grandpa didn’t pay!

T-shirt #242: I AINT DOWN W/ ZOMBIES YO!

This is the first of 5 shirts donated by Letter from John (http://www.letterfromjohn.com), a site that prints shirts from bathroom graffiti…thanks again, John!

I wore it today because I thought my nephews and niece would get a kick out of it. When I told them where the design for the shirt came from, they thought it was hilarious.

The day with the kids was a fun, funny, and profitable one. We started by Skyping with “Auntie Meg” in NYC, who is skilled enough to work and Skype at the same time. I was made fun of for not knowing the “Tonks” Harry Potter reference for my sister’s future dog…good stuff. After a quick Skype with my friend in Germany Annica (the kids said about 5 words), there was a little outside time. We each took turns taking BP into the baseball net and after lunch it was time to bring in some cashola…

It was a perfect day for a lemonade stand, and I came prepared with cups, mix, a pitcher, and a coffee can to hold the money. The kids made signs and decorated the can, and I made the lemonade. We were all set, and it was time to take shade under the picnic table and wait…

We decided to go with a “name your own price” to see what people would pay, hoping for at least 25 cents. Support from relatives was the key, and they provided 50% of the profits. Neighbors were also happy to stop on their way out for some refreshments and added some bills for the can. We also got a few people we didn’t know, including someone wearing a Westboro High Hockey ’06 shirt.

Some of the reactions of people who didn’t stop were amusing. One guy on a bike said, “I don’t have any money”. When we all shouted “It’s free if you want!”, he continued riding and said “Oh”. Another dude on a motorcycle simply nodded as to say “Yes, you are selling lemonade”. Most surprising was the UPS and USPS drivers who didn’t stop (they were always a sure bet when I was a kid).

In the middle of it, we also witnessed two dragonflies mating. When my niece asked what that meant, I gave her the Chief Wiggum answer of, “You know, making babies.”

When all was said and done, the kids took in $18. The plan is to spend that at Friendly’s tomorrow…looking forward to it!

T-shirt #241: ST. PATRICK DRIVING THE SNAKES OUT OF IRELAND

This is another shirt donated from my awesome dad, see also: http://davestshirts.blogspot.com/2010/08/t-shirt-231-moodys-diner.html. Thanks, Dad!

I thought this would be a good shirt to wear today because it reminded me of one of my favorite McGrath summer traditions: The Sunday Night Drive. After my dad told us we were going for a drive and each McGrath kid had “called” where they were sitting in the van, the trek usually started with a stop at Uhlman’s Ice Cream (a place that still remains one of my favorites to frequent on a hot day in The ‘Boro). After our ice cream delights, my dad would just drive. When we asked (and we always did) he said he didn’t know where he was going or how long it was going to take. Sometimes we would end up in a neighboring town where a local athlete lived and would try to see if we could find their house. Although I had suspicions that he really knew every turn and where we were headed, he really just drove. Sometimes he would take the van a few too many turns from being able to remember how we got there. But even without a GPS, we would always make it back home. Unlike the almost 700-mile trips to PEI, these Sunday Night Drives were usually peaceful and relaxing (in my memory anyway!). I wonder how many families today get everyone in the car and just go for a drive? Thanks for all those times Dad, and thanks for always driving everyone all those countless miles!

T-shirt #240: I'M WITH STUPID

This shirt was donated from Busted Tees (http://www.bustedtees.com/) and I thought it would be the perfect shirt to wear today because I’m hanging out with my friend Carl. Don’t get me wrong, Carl is not stupid. He’s actually really smart, “wicked smaht” if you will… he passed the BAR exam on his first try. But, I know he will get a kick out of it when he sees it and will most likely ask me “What’s wrong with you?” – his favorite question to ask when I do things to remind him that I am shameless.

I’m sure it will be another day filled with Wiffle and video game hockey. Carl is feeling cocky now though, after a rare unbeaten streak against him ended my last time out in Quincy. At least he didn’t leave to go to sleep by throwing the controller and not saying anything (he really doesn’t like to lose…such a stupid thing!). Off to Quincy, hoping somehow I can get a picture with Carl while wearing this shirt…

T-shirt #239: MAY THE SCHWARTZ BE WITH YOU

This is another one from 6 Dollar Shirts (http://www.6dollarshirts.com/t-shirts/). If you haven’t heard this saying, it means you haven’t seen Spaceballs enough and you most likely aren’t part of the same generation as me (I think I’m called a Gen X-er?). My friend Cailin and I usually have some sort of movie night on Fridays, and have watched Spaceballs enough to quote it anytime anything even remotely reminds us of it (which, yes, is a lot!)…I’m not a betting man, but I’m guessing she’ll enjoy this one!

Here are some highlights you can enjoy on your way to having a great weekend, and May The Schwarz Be With Us All!

T-shirt #238: Om (Aum)

WARNING: EDUCATIONAL BLOG TONIGHT!

This is another shirt from http://www.6dollarshirts.com/t-shirts, and if you’re like me you don’t know what it means until you look it up…so, I did that for you (from http://hinduism.about.com/od/omaum/a/meaningofom.htm):

Om or Aum is of paramount importance in Hinduism. This symbol (as seen in the image on the right) is a sacred syllable representing Brahman, the impersonal Absolute of Hinduism — omnipotent, omnipresent, and the source of all manifest existence. Brahman, in itself, is incomprehensible; so a symbol becomes mandatory to help us realize the Unknowable. Om, therefore, represents both the unmanifest (nirguna) and manifest (saguna) aspects of God. That is why it is called pranava, to mean that it pervades life and runs through our prana or breath.

Om in Daily Life

Although Om symbolizes the most profound concepts of Hindu belief, it is in use daily. The Hindus begin their day or any work or a journey by uttering Om. The sacred symbol is often found at the head of letters, at the beginning of examination papers and so on. Many Hindus, as an expression of spiritual perfection, wear the sign of Om as a pendant. This symbol is enshrined in every Hindu temple premise or in some form or another on family shrines.

It is interesting to note that a newly born child is ushered into the world with this holy sign. After birth, the child is ritually cleansed and the sacred syllable Om is written on its tongue with honey. Thus right at the time of birth the syllable Om is initiated into the life of a Hindu and ever remains with him as the symbol of piety. Om is also a popular symbol used in contemporary body art and tattoos.

The Music of Om

Om is not a word but rather an intonation, which, like music, transcends the barriers of age, race, culture and even species. It is made up of three Sanskrit letters, aa, au and ma which, when combined together, make the sound Aum or Om. It is believed to be the basic sound of the world and to contain all other sounds. It is a mantra or prayer in itself. If repeated with the correct intonation, it can resonate throughout the body so that the sound penetrates to the centre of one's being, the atman or soul.

There is harmony, peace and bliss in this simple but deeply philosophical sound. By vibrating the sacred syllable Om, the supreme combination of letters, if one thinks of the Ultimate Personality of Godhead and quits his body, he will certainly reach the highest state of "stateless" eternity, states the Bhagavad Gita.

The Vision of Om

Om provides a dualistic viewpoint. On one hand, it projects the mind beyond the immediate to what is abstract and inexpressible. On the other hand, it makes the absolute more tangible and comprehensive. It encompasses all potentialities and possibilities; it is everything that was, is, or can yet be. It is omnipotent and likewise remains undefined.

The Power of Om

During meditation, when we chant Om, we create within ourselves a vibration that attunes sympathy with the cosmic vibration and we start thinking universally. The momentary silence between each chant becomes palpable. Mind moves between the opposites of sound and silence until, at last, it ceases the sound. In the silence, the single thought—Om—is quenched; there is no thought. This is the state of trance, where the mind and the intellect are transcended as the individual self merges with the Infinite Self in the pious moment of realization. It is a moment when the petty worldly affairs are lost in the desire for the universal. Such is the immeasurable power of Om.

Very funny coincidence when I was looking up “Aum” for my blog tonight. Because there was no Red Sox game on, I thought I would finally watch Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom (as I wrote here: http://davestshirts.blogspot.com/2010/08/t-shirt-230-lao-che-air-freight.html). So, I was looking for a page that described what each stroke of the symbol meant, and I came across it on this page (http://www.hinduwebsite.com/hinduism/essays/aum.asp) which also had different “Om chants” listed. The first one (Om Namah Shivay) looked very familiar, and then it hit me: It’s what the guy who is sacrificed in Temple of Doom says over and over before he is lowered into the lava pit. So, now when you watch TOD, you know that (from http://www.meditationiseasy.com/mCorner/techniques/Om_namah_shivaya.htm):

Om Namah Shivaya is known as the great redeeming mantra also known as five-syllable mantra

The meaning : 

It means "I bow to Shiva." Shiva is the supreme reality, the inner Self. It is the name given to consciousness that dwells in all. Shiva is the name of your true identity- your self.

According to Hindu mythology there are three Gods who run this creation. The Brahma - who creates the universe, the Vishnu - who preserves the Universe and the Shiva- who in the end destroys the universe. Among the three deities, Shiva, though considered as destroyer, also symbolize the - the inner self which remains intact even after everything ends.

In this mantra the chanter (one who repeats the mantra) bow to Shiva- his true self.

Om Namah Shivay is a very powerful mantra. It has been said about this mantra that if this mantra vibrates continually in your heart, then you have no need to perform austerities, to meditate, or to practise yoga. To repeat this mantra you need no rituals or ceremonies, nor must you repeat it at an auspicious time or in a particular place." This mantra is free of all restrictions. It can be repeated by anyone, young or old, rich or poor and no matter what state a person is in, it will purify him.

Off to watch Indy: Om Namah Shivay, Om Namah Shivay, Om Namah Shivay…

T-shirt #237: SAM La GRASSA'S

Earlier this month, my friend Tim visited Boston with a sandwich mission. He wanted to visit as many high-rated sandwich establishments as he could in the weekend and a day he was here. So, that Monday we made our way into the city (I did find a parking meter) and went to Sam LaGrassa’s (http://www.samlagrassas.com/home.php). Sam’s logo claims they have the “World’s No. 1 Sandwiches”, so we were eager to find out how real that statement was. I ordered a roast beef sandwich and was not disappointed (as you can see in the picture of me and my friend Jess). After enjoying my overflowing meat delight, I told one of the managers about my blog and asked if Sam’s would donate one…which, you guess it, they did…thanks again! Even if you aren’t a meat lover, Sam’s also has a good choice for all the veggies out there.

Speaking of, I went 12 days without meat until I had a hamburger today. I’m not sure if I will ever get to the point of being a total vegetarian, but I am definitely trying to cut down and plan on trying to go al least another 12 days before I eat meat again. It’s a start, and it will also make those days I do have a burger or roast beef sandwich a treat. Haven’t noticed much of a difference Crohn’s-wise, but we’ll see…

T-shirt #236: MONTALBANO 31, St. John's

A lot of coaches will tell you that the name on the front of the shirt is a lot more important than the name on the back. I agree with that with the exception of this shirt (which was donated from the Saint John’s baseball coach, Charlie Eppinger…thanks again!).

Today is Greg Montalbano’s birthday and it has been just over a year since he passed away from cancer. Although I was closest to Greg when we were both at St. John’s (sharing rides and playing street hockey games), there are three days I will never forget when I think about Greg.

The first was when my mother told me about his diagnosis. I didn’t want to believe it, and couldn’t believe that two students at the same school would get diagnosed with the same kind of cancer (mine was a brain tumor but was made up of the same kind of cells as testicular cancer, proving beyond any doubts that I was a dickhead, ha ha). I sent Greg a card and offered some advice and positive thoughts, and told him I was there for him if he needed someone to talk to.

The second was the day I was waiting outside of Fenway for my roommate Amy. When she walked up to me, she had a huge smile on her face. She told me she had a message from my mother. When I heard her say that Greg had been drafted by the Red Sox, her smile was transferred to my face and multiplied by about 50. I was so happy for Greg and already picturing the day I could walk into Fenway to see him pitch.

Later that year, I was dating a girl who went to Northeastern. One night, when I was walking with her on campus I heard someone say “Hey, Dave!”. Not expecting to run into anyone I knew, I politely said “Hi” back, but still wasn’t sure who it could be. Greg gave me a huge smile, and everything clicked. I felt so proud telling this girl all about Greg and how I knew him, not really caring but still hoping she was impressed.

I feel lucky to be able to write these stories about Greg and honored to be wearing this shirt today. Happy Birthday, Greg. The stories from your life and the lives you touched are things that will always be remembered and shared. Thank you for all the inspiration…

For other Greg-related blogs, you can see:

http://davestshirts.blogspot.com/2010/05/t-shirt-135-st-johns-alumni-baseball.html

http://davestshirts.blogspot.com/2010/06/t-shirt-163-saint-johns-alumni-golf.html

T-shirt #235: It Passes Here (with the song It's Hard to Hide Your Crohn's Away)

When I realized I was running out of shirts, a friend of mine found this site that you could get 10 shirts for $50 (www.6dollarshirts.com/t-shirts). I thought this one (see here: http://6dollarshirts.com/t-shirts/It-Passes-Here-p-11399.html) would be a good Crohn’s shirt and would go well with a Beatles parody I wrote…hope you enjoy!

It’s Hard to Hide Your Crohn’s Away

Music – Beatles Lyrics- David H. McGrath

Here I sit taking a shit,

Feels like the tenth time today

She’s probably gone ‘cause the smell is so wrong

Hope Fabreeze takes it away

Do you dare go in there

When it’s a Crohnsy day?

Even with meds these cramps I dread

And I have to say…

Hey! It’s hard to hide your Crohn’s away

Hey! It’s hard to hide your Crohn’s away

How will I ever deny

My office chair is porcelin?

Books are here candles there

This state of Crohn’s I’m in

How could she say to me

It’s all good, it’s okay?

Gather ‘round all you non-Crohn’s clowns

I still have to say…

Hey! It’s hard to hide your Crohn’s away

Hey! It’s hard to hide your Crohn’s away

Hey! It’s hard to hide your Crohn’s away

T-shirt #234: YOU ARE WHAT YOU EAT! (Franks Famous Diner)

Challenge to anyone reading this: find FRANKS FAMOUS DINER on Route 88 in Texas. I couldn’t.

This is a new shirt that my nephew picked out for me with my sister Carolyn…thanks, you two!

Even though the temptation is there to make many inappropriate jokes about “You are what you eat!”, I will hold back.

For a long time, even with my Crohn’s Disease diagnosis, I did not care what I ate or drank. If I had a bad Crohn’s day, I just dealt with it. I knew certain things set it off, but I liked them too much to stop. When I was drinking (beer especially), I would be in the bathroom the entire next day. Even when I stopped drinking (over 15 years ago), caffeine would take place of alcohol as #1 instigator. But, I needed my coffee in the morning. So again, I dealt with the consequences (usually shaking and jumping in the hallway until I found someone who could cover my classroom so I could relieve myself). My brother Tom got me a “Living with Crohn’s” book one year, and I was excited to see what tips were inside it. Soon after I started reading it I discovered that I was eating and drinking many of the things that were segregated not to eat and drink. I put the book down before finding out any other things I was doing wrong…

Over two years ago, I had to be hospitalized for my Crohn’s. It was the first time that I had to stay over at UMass for my Crohn’s since my diagnosis in 1988, so that was a nice stretch. When I got out of the hospital, I thought it would be a good time to take a look at things I could do to improve my digestive situation. Of course because I was ready to reevaluate, I couldn’t find the book my brother got me. I started exercising more often, and I noticed an improvement. Last year, I decided it was time to cut down on my caffeine intake. No more coffee with caffeine, but the occasional diet soda. Again, I found I was getting less flare ups. I did occasionally have weekends (I blame Carl) where I ate crap and had a lot of soda with caffeine. It was also tough around the holidays because having a lot of sweet things can make my Crohn’s bad. These times I usually had what I call a “Crohn’s Hangover” which is having no energy the next day.

I had always used Crohn’s as a good excuse not to eat vegetables, but the last few weeks I have been using the V8 Fusions to drink my fruits and vegetables (I recommend the blueberry one). And I never thought I would say it, but I have not had any meat in over a week. And don’t be too shocked…I’m sure at some point I will have another hamburger. I am really curious to see A) how long I can go without meat and B) if it will have a huge impact on my Crohn’s.

But I think with or without Crohn’s, what you put in your body really does have a big impact on who you are. If you only put crap in your body, you’re going to feel crappy. If you put good things in your body, you are going to feel better. As I try to find out what diet works best for me and my Crohn’s, I know I will still have bad days. I know I will have days when I say f- it and eat whatever I want. For now though, I am trying to make better eating decisions. I am trying to control my Crohn’s rather than have it control me. It still is hard to hide your Crohn’s away…

T-shirt #233: All we need is Love. And Food. And Water. And Shelter

This is another shirt donated from a site that has a lot of great, original t-shirts, Threadless (www.threadless.com). Thanks, again! If you like it, you can get it here: http://www.threadless.com/product/2207/All_We_Need_is_Love_And_Food_And_Water_And_Shelter

Although the shirt provides a very short list, I often think of how too many people go without all four. I would like to live in a world where everyone gets Love, Food, Water, and Shelter…wouldn’t you?

I’m wearing it today, because I thought it would be a good “concert shirt”…I hope my sister Carolyn approves! Going to Great Woods to see Tom Petty, so it should be a great time!

I will also be thinking about Greg Montalbano and his family today. It has been one year since he passed away. Look for my Montalbano St. John’s shirt coming up in a few days for his birthday. You can also read what I wrote about Greg here http://davestshirts.blogspot.com/2010/05/t-shirt-135-st-johns-alumni-baseball.html and

here http://davestshirts.blogspot.com/2010/06/t-shirt-163-saint-johns-alumni-golf.html

You’re awesome Greg, you are missed by many, many people, and you will not be forgotten…

T-shirt #232: Joanna the Hell Cat (Overcompensating)

This shirt was another one donated from Topatoco (http://topatoco.com/hey) and I couldn’t find it on their site, but there is another Joanna shirt here: http://www.topatoco.com/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=TO&Product_Code=WIGU-JOANNA&Category_Code=WIGU

Thanks again, Topatoco!

I thought it would be a good shirt to wear for today because I haven’t seen my friend Cailin in what seems like a long time, and I know she’ll love it (she’s one of those “cat people”). Luckily for me, her cats have gotten comfortable with me and at times actually come to cuddle with me…something I would have never have predicted.

Looking forward to a fun night on Ruggles Street!

T-shirt #231: MOODY'S DINER

This shirt is another one donated from my father (thanks, Dad!) and I thought it would be a good one to wear before the summer ends.

I don’t know how many times I went to Moody’s Diner (www.moodysdiner.com) in the summer of 1994, but it was a lot. I was a counselor at Camp Med-O-Lark (www.medolark.com), and Moody’s was just a 20-minute drive down route 220. The food was delicious and the prices were perfect for the next-to-nothing salary of a camp counselor (My father and I went there when he came to visit me, and he liked the prices too!). The atmosphere and friendly service made it the perfect place to hang out after a long day at camp, and it was good to have a “non-party” sanctuary for those nights we needed to just relax. Moody’s was also where I first tried tartar sauce on french fries (I think I have Gary to thank for that?). If you haven’t tried, I highly recommend it.

A few years ago when my Aunt mentioned to me she knew about Moody’s, I told her how I loved going there that summer. She picked up the Moody’s Cookbook for me, and the nacho meat-dip recipe in it became a hit at parties I made it for. Now that I think of it, I should have my mother take a look at some of the desserts in it…I’m sure she would do a much better job than me!

So if you are in the Waldoboro, ME area, I highly recommend going to Moody’s. You will not be disappointed!

T-shirt #230: LAO CHE Air Freight

This is another that was donated all the way from the UK, thanks Last Exit to Nowhere (www.lastexittonowhere.com)! LETN has a lot of great movie-themed shirts, and you can see the other two they donated me here: http://davestshirts.blogspot.com/2010/07/t-shirt-187-championship-vinyl.html and here: http://davestshirts.blogspot.com/2010/07/t-shirt-205-abe-froman-sausage-king-of.html.

I wore it today because I went to see a psychic and thought it would be one of the least revealing shirts that I had. The reading was a letdown compared to other ones that I’ve had. She didn’t mention anything specific and didn’t tell me something there was no way she could have known (others told me I had a brother with asthma, knew I had a shoulder injury, knew I wanted to write, and had specific advice for me). When I mentioned writing today, she told me I should think about keeping a journal. I thought about telling her that I had already filled about 12 journals in the past 5 years, but I just smiled and said, “okay”.

If you don’t know the connection between Lao Che Air Freight and The Temple of Doom, you either haven’t seen the Temple of Doom or haven’t seen it 83 times like I have. The Indiana Jones movies were very high on my list of favorites growing up, second to only the Star Wars trilogy. I remember seeing Raiders of the Lost Ark at The Flick in Westboro and watching a lot of the parts through the cracks between my fingers. Temple of Doom was rated PG when it came out, but had scenes that led to future movies having PG-13 ratings. My brothers, cousin, and I went to see The Last Crusade on opening day and watched all of the Indy movies many, many times together when they came out on tape. The quote “Nice try, Lao Che!” became one we repeated to each other often, especially when playing sports.

Hoping to watch T.O.D. tonight. If you want to know more about Lao Che:

T-shirt #229: Baseball Hall of Fame

This shirt was donated from my awesome father...thanks, Dad! I wore it today because I took my “Little” to another museum. We went to the Higgins Armory Museum (www.higgins.org) in Worcester, and had a great time (and actually learned some things too!).

My dad got this shirt back in the early 80s when we took a family trip to Cooperstown to see the Hall of Fame (http://baseballhall.org). I remember being in awe of all the memorabilia, especially Babe Ruth’s locker, Ted Williams’ hitting zone display, and the ball that was used for an entire game (I wonder what the average is for number of balls used for a game these days?). Another highlight of the trip was a breakfast stop where each of the 7 McGrath orders were made one after the other and brought over to each person because the dude who ran it only had one frying pan. I think someone also got locked inside the bathroom of our motel room (which, when we pulled up to it, my younger brother Tom asked “Is this an ice cream place?”), but my memory is a little fuzzy on that one…can any McGraths help me out?

Also pictured with me is part of the Hall of Fame shirt that I got on that trip (it is now part of a t-shirt blanket my mom made for me on my 21^st birthday). I think I may have shared this story before, but it’s one I am very proud of…it was the summer of 1987 and I was wearing my Hall of Fame shirt. That night, my awesome older brother was taking me to my first concert. It was Whitesnake opening for Motley Crue at The Centrum, and I was very excited to go. So excited in fact, that I forgot to consult anyone on what was appropriate rock concert attire. When my brother told me it was time to go, I said, “Alright, let’s go!” Luckily for me, my awesome older sister was there to tell me I couldn’t go in my Hall of Fame shirt. I trusted her, and went up to get my Ratt shirt to wear instead. The Crue rocked, and I fit right in.

Thanks to everyone in my family for always supporting me, looking out for me, and giving me memories I like to hold onto. You are all the best!

T-shirt #228: F- CANCER!

I designed this shirt when I bought www.f-cancer.com and if you want one, you can order it here: www.zazzle.com/f_cancer_tshirt-235185332492854453. All the money made from these shirts will be donated to the American Cancer Society’s Hope Lodge in Worcester, MA.

To me, F- CANCER! really says it all. Even though it’s not the motto of Hope Lodge, I do get the feeling while working here that the guests and I are all a team together in the battle against this disease (And I do think a huge “F- CANCER!” sign outside would rock). We get all types of guests will all kinds of cancer, but we all share a bond no matter what the diagnosis or treatment. We all pull for each other and say “F- CANCER!” by continuing to joke, laugh, and live life in the face of a challenge that seems to touch too many people.

F- CANCER! Also reminds me of the sadness and anger I sometimes feel. Even though Hope Lodge has had far more success stories, we have lost a number of guests since I started here three years ago. And outside of Hope Lodge, I have had friends lose family members to this horrible disease (see: http://davestshirts.blogspot.com/2010/05/t-shirt-131-team-cancer-sucks.html and http://davestshirts.blogspot.com/2010/05/t-shirt-135-st-johns-alumni-baseball.html). But when this happens, we say “F- CANCER!”, and continue fighting in their memories. We do Relays, fundraising Marathon walks, and anything we can to help others that are going through something similar.

F- CANCER! is really how I think most people feel about it. And although no one in Worcester made any comments to me while I wore this shirt today, I opened the door for some new guests tonight and “That is an awesome shirt!” was the first thing I heard. Mission accomplished.

T-shirt #227: I think we should start talking about starting a band.

This shirt, like this one (http://davestshirts.blogspot.com/2010/05/t-shirt-149-horses-desreve-better.html) was donated to me from The Onion Store (http://store.theonion.com). Thanks, Onion!

I wore it today because I knew I was going to be hanging out with my great friend Glen, and I thought he would get a kick out of it. More like a brother to me, Glen has given me so much that I will never be able to repay him. Although I have mentioned it before, he gave me the MacBook I am typing on right now and with it the ability to keep this daily blog. He stuck by me and gave me the slack only a true friend could when I was going through a really tough time. He taught me how to play guitar and although I will most likely never be in a band, he would be the person I’d talk to about starting one (for more on his old band Focusin, see: http://davestshirts.blogspot.com/2010/07/t-shirt-203-focusin-original-logo.html, http://davestshirts.blogspot.com/2010/04/t-shirt-115-focusin-heavens-to.html, and http://davestshirts.blogspot.com/2010/02/t-shirt-59-focusin.html ). I wish I could afford to go and visit him out in Oregon more, but I am glad technology (Facebook and Skype) make it easier to keep in touch. Glen has given me countless laughs and good times, and today was no different. It was only a few hours of wiffle ball and Uhlman’s Ice Cream, but it was great. I will keep writing this over and over, but I guess it has become my motto: The only thing that really matters in life is the people you have in yours. Well Glen, buddy, I am really lucky to have you in mine. And, even though I beat you 2 games to 1, this was an awesome catch:

T-shirt #226: IF THIS SHIRT IS NOT SWEATY THEN I AM NOT GAMING HARD ENOUGH!!

This shirt is another one of many from one of my main contributors (thanks, JB!). I have been playing video games since the early 80’s, did again today, and will be until I can no longer move my fingers on the controller. I think that’s partially a gerenational thing and partially the fact that I don’t want to grow up.

My friend Carl is enjoying some victory potato chips right now, after beating me (Bruins) for the championship in overtime using the Flyers (ouch). For a blog about my favorite all time video games, go here: http://davestshirts.blogspot.com/2010/01/t-shirt-2-video-games.html

I’m sure there will be more video game hockey played today, followed by some late night N64 Mario Kart (Carl for some reason doesn’t like Wii Mario Kart), all with major trash talk going on. I really hope this never gets old…

T-shirt #225: NEW ENGLAND ROAST BEEF, IT's NERBILICIOUS

Getting ready to head back to Mass form PEI...will write more about my favorite place to get a sandwich in Worcester later...

Glad to report that my parents and I made it back safely to Mass and amazingly on the way back (without planning) ran into my aunt and uncle (who were on their way up to PEI) at a gas station in Maine!

When I first started working at Hope Lodge three years ago (wow), my awesome Aunt Carol helped me get reacquainted with the city I had known better as a youth. “Woostah” was where my dad grew up and where he worked. It was where we went to see Holy Cross get killed by BC in football. It was where we went to go to concerts (it will always be The Centrum to me). It was where our family went for medical emergencies (a long list for another blog). It was where I bragged to my college buddies that Denis Leary was from. After college when I moved to Waltham, Worcester became a place I went to rarely (an easy feat to achieve if you live 15-20 minutes from Boston). Little did I know at the time that Worcester would be the place I would find the perfect job…

Back to three years ago, and I moved into my new apartment and job at the same time. My aunt started treating me to meals and other Worcester outings just about every week. One of the first places she took me was New England Roast Beef on Parke Ave in Worcester. I loved all the sports memorabilia on the walls and couldn’t believe the size of my roast beef sandwich when they brought it over. I knew right away that it was my kind of place. And the friendly service I get every time I go has made me return many times since that first time three years ago.

So, thanks again Aunt Carol for easing my transition back into the city (2^nd largest in New England) I once knew. If you are in the area and have never tried New England Roast Beef, I highly recommend checking them out. For all the information you need, go to: http://www.campuslive.com/wpi/restaurants/new-england-roast-beef-worcester-ma

T-shirt #224: Irish Toast "May you live to be a hundred years, With one extra year to repent."

Okay, so maybe I would need two extra years.

I think this was bought from an Irish website, www.shopirish.com maybe? Can’t say for sure.

After a couple of “non-beach” days, I had a fun with the fam at Basin Head (www.basinhead.com) today. Basin Head has a bridge that connects two parts of the beach, and the water in the inlet is deep enough to dive into. Even though there are signs that say “Jumping is prohibited”, everyone jumps in (there are also ladders on either side to climb after you have jumped in). I think we were there for about 5 seconds before my nephew was asking if he could jump in. After he finally got to plunge, he wasn’t ready for the strong stream that pulls you out towards the beach water (which is a lot more shallow). He missed the first ladder and tried vigorously to swim back towards it. I told him to go to the next ladder, but he missed that one too! Even though he would have floated safely to the shallow beach water, he told the lifeguard he needed help and was soon escorted back to land. I was glad that this first jump didn’t stop him. My brother, other nephew, and I all jumped in too. My niece and I had fun swimming, and we had to go way out past two sand bars to get to “throwing depth”. I’m sure someday she will be able to join the boys and enjoy jumping off by the bridge.

Oh yeah, the only Irish Toast that I like more than the one on this shirt: “May you be in heaven a full half hour before the devil knows you’re dead.”

Back to Mass tomorrow, but there’s a meteor shower at midnight tonight…woo hoo!

T-shirt #223: Homer: JUST BECAUSE I DON'T CARE DOESN'T MEAN I DON'T UNDERSTAND

My nephew handed this shirt to me (along with a few others) when I arrived in PEI a few days ago. He and my sister Carolyn (a.k.a. “Auntie CAM”) picked them out for me at Value Village (www.valuevillage.com) in Charlottetown…thanks, you two!!

Today I finished reading the book Fletch by Gregory McDonald (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fletch_(novel), a gift from my friend Matt. Although I didn’t enjoy it as much as the movie, it was interesting to get a more in depth look into the world of I.M. Fletcher and see the differences between the book and the movie. And even though I had a pretty good idea how it was going to end, it’s always nice to finish a book (I am happy to tell my sister Megan that H.P. and The Sorcerer’s Stone is next on my list!).

Homer and Fletch will always be two of my favorite fictional characters. Although Fletch is a lot smarter than Homer, they both are hilarious and speak their minds. They both clash with their bosses and find themselves in extraordinary circumstances. If you have talked to me enough, you have most likely (with or without knowing it) heard me quote both of them many times.

I did make one Fletch shirt, http://davestshirts.blogspot.com/2010/07/t-shirt-190-fletch.html, and I have more Simpsons shirts: http://davestshirts.blogspot.com/2010/02/t-shirt-51-spider-pig.html

http://davestshirts.blogspot.com/2010/03/t-shirt-69-homer-i-am-so-smrt.html

http://davestshirts.blogspot.com/2010/03/t-shirt-88-blinky-simpsons.html

http://davestshirts.blogspot.com/2010/04/t-shirt-118-simpsons-ralph-eating-paste.html

http://davestshirts.blogspot.com/2010/06/t-shirt-153-ralph-wiggum-special-team.html

Hmmmm, maybe I will write a Simpsons episode that has Fletch somehow finding himself in Springfield…

T-shirt #222: Sesame Street (#3)

Big Bird is a big fatio monster. Elmo’s nose is orange. Brendan used to point at this shirt and Uncle Dave would make the characters’ noises (he is pointing at Oscar for today’s blog picture). Ernie has a rubber ducky. Bert has a paper clip collection. Cookie Monster eating the cookies was my favorite part. Oscar is a big grouch. Bert and Ernie made a guest appearance on the Muppet Show. Snuffaluffagus is huge and hairy (That intro was brought to you by my nephews).

My name is Dave, I am in my 30’s, and I have 3 Sesame Street shirts. Here are the other two (all three were always big hits with my special ed students):

http://davestshirts.blogspot.com/2010/01/t-shirt-26-sesame-street.html

http://davestshirts.blogspot.com/2010/05/t-shirt-146-sesame-street-representing.html

I got this shirt in 1996 at a Sesame Street store near San Francisco, part of a cross-country road trip with my friends after we graduated (See story here: http://davestshirts.blogspot.com/2010/01/t-shirt-24-alcatraz-506938.html). It was MIA for a while, but after crawling into the dark corners of my closet a couple of months ago, it was recovered. I don’t think the Sesame Street stores exist anymore, but if you want your own Sesame Street shirt, there are some here: http://store.sesamestreet.org/Dept.aspx?cp=21415_21456_21461_21493.

And even though it’s out of season, my nephews want to remind you…