Richard sent this along. . . .

"Love is a song we all should sing. . ..

Save this for one of those days when you are terribly depressed. J

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=qPyg1orcWBo#at=430

Richard

Reporting In. . .from The Cape

Good morning, All Y'All. . . .I guess, tho, it is really "the middle of the night by the 'body clock' but already I hear the birds beginning there morning songs. . . well, a few of them anyway.  It is hard to believe but there are only ten days left to the month of June! I write this and then wonder if I am beginning to sound like one of the old-times down the road a-piece my folks quote now and then, with kidding and laughter.  I guess he used to say "Well. . .it's the 4th of July:  Summer is over! "  I know it's not "over" but I feel like the days of summer are slipping by way too quickly. . . .and it makes me want to "hang onto them".

What am I doing up so early?  I guess it is just one of those night when I seem to have had enough sleep and feel like "doing things."

So one of the thing is I want to respond here to several emails I have received in the last couple of weeks. . ..emails from a few of the Dunes Boys wondering if things are OK. . .telling me they think the tone of JustinDunes seems to be changing. . . .wondering if thing are OK with Peter and me. . . .are we still together?  Are we "still a couple?" "You haven't written about Peter in a long while, it seems. . .about things you guys do. . ." and so forth.

I am happy to tell you Peter and I are still tight, still together, and judging by last night's good night kiss I'd say we are very much in love!  LOL

Living together at Mme Bouvier's. . . .remember my wonderful Gramma?. . .this school year, being together every day, sharing a home with Peter has been a new and different and great experience for both of us. . . We've learned a lot about one another. . . LOL. . .

like the old New England Yankee saying "If you want to really know someone ya haveta summer and winter with them. . ."

How true that is ! hahhaaa. . .definitely true.  We've grown a lot because we have changed a lot: we know each other so much better because we've shared so much of the stuff of every day. . .the ins and outs of adjusting and changing, lots of dialog about "matters of consequence":  we LIVE together.  And we also have learned a lot about each other AND about ourselves.  We are "growing up". . we aren't kids any more.  We are young men with a growing life together, careers in formation, learning more and more about our psychological-sociological make-ups, needs and desires, hopes and dreams.  And we are both a part of one another's life. . lives together.  That is different from last year, even.

Peter is studying, working in a med-surgical profession, learning so much about so many things, growing in academics and also the practicalities of working in healthcare, often in serious, often critical situations in life/death actualities.  His world has changed so much from the more seemingly-carefree and yet demanding resposibilities of the family business.

 

We've noticed that our days involve so far a lot more kicking back and being easy about life. . . we're both living in our family homes, so there is more time and space apart, time to think our own thoughts and feel our own feelings.. . .and our times together are often more relaxed, less with the feelings we have "so much to get in. . things to do", etc.

My year has been very full. . . . sometimes too full; I am wondering about this.  The doctoral program is going well, and has been my priority this school year. . . my two classes of Intro Psych have been okay.  .    . and these are now tentative for Fall semester.  I still have a little time yet before I have to sign the contract: I have an extension.  If I decide not to teach this year there is another grad student willing and ready to step in and take over.  Lucky about that.  The clinic internship has been an invaluable experience and I will definitely continue there.  It so complements the academic side of the doctoral program. . .the practical experience at the clinic has been awesome!

More later. . . .time to hit the sack for some more sleep.  I think  the birds are doing the same thing. . .lol. . .their morning twittering has quieted down. . . ..zzzzzzzzz-time.  Ciao ciao. . . . Justin.

Part 2

G2G Gallery Guys - Tuesday's Taste Posted: 19 Jun 2012 06:20 AM PDT

Gay Relationships: 5 Deadly Mistakes Gay Couples Can Make - Part Two Posted: 19 Jun 2012 06:20 AM PDT [ continued from yesterday ] "Whether you’re just starting out in a new relationship or have been long-term partners for many years, how does a gay couple maintain their relationship over the long haul and sustain that “magical spark” that drew them together in the first place?" If you’re in a monogamous relationship and want to open it up, don’t just act upon it without dialogging about it with your partner first. And if you have an open relationship, don’t assume you and your partner share the same views about it as time goes on. Revisit your “relationship contract” to ensure genuine agreement still exists, avoid making assumptions, and don’t be afraid to bring up difficult topics of discussion. It’s better to hash it out than to act it out to protect the foundation of trust you’ve built. Deadly Mistake #2: Not attending to each other’s needs: We all have needs, and relationships are a great source for meeting the needs for belonging and attachment. Through communication and life experience with your partner, you’ll learn what matters most to him. Many couples destroy their relationships by taking each other for granted and failing to attend to the needs of the other in the ways he likes them to be met. Schedule a “family meeting” with your partner at least once a month to talk about your relationship and how it’s going. What’s going well? Not so well? Are you in alignment with your relationship vision? Make a list of your needs and share them with your partner, making a conscious effort to be more attentive and proactive. Deadly Mistake #1: Not making your relationship a priority: Life is stressful. Between the demands of work, family, friends, school, hobbies, and all the other obligations you may have, your relationship with your partner can really take a hit. Those couples who take their relationship for granted are writing a prescription for its demise. Try to work hard at creating more life balance to juggle all the roles you have to avoid neglecting your relationship. Imagine your relationship with your partner is a nucleus. You must protect your nucleus from all external, outside forces. Don’t allow them to penetrate through or you risk jeopardizing the health and wellness of your relationship! Your partner is your home and haven. Let him be your number one priority above all else. Make him feel special and appreciated. Schedule “date nights”, surprise him with gifts of adoration, plan a commitment ceremony, etc. Do anything you’re comfortable with that will validate and affirm your relationship as the blessing it is—and cherish it! Conclusion: So there you have it—five deadly mistakes that can compromise the success of a gay relationship. By applying some of these possible solutions and brainstorming some of your own, you’ll be demonstrating your commitment to your relationship and honoring it in the way it deserves. This will promote more gratification and functionality in your partnership, solidifying your bond as a couple, and creating a level of bliss unlike no other. Cheers to your success! © Dr. Brian Rzepczynski, The Gay Love Coach The suggestions and feedback offered in this column are but one perspective of multiple approaches to dealing with problems or challenges. Information provided in articles and advice columns should not be used as a substitute for coaching or therapy when these services are needed. None of this information should be your only source when making important life decisions. This information should not be used for diagnosing or treating a particular problem, nor should it take the place of a consultation with a trained professional. It is your responsibility to consult a professional prior to making any life decisions. Dr. Brian Rzepczynski, contributing author to GAYTWOGETHER, is one of the leading love coaches for the gay community. As a licensed dating and relationship coach, Dr. Brian Rzepczynski, DHS, MSW has over 18 years experience as a psychotherapist and life coach specializing in helping GLBT individuals and couples develop and maintain successful and fulfilling intimate relationships. He holds a doctorate degree in human sexuality from the Institute for Advanced Study of Human Sexuality and a master’s degree in clinical social work from Western Michigan University. He also runs a successful private therapy practice, Personal Victory Counseling, Inc.http://thegaylovecoach.com

Gay Relationships: 5 Deadly Mistakes Gay Couples Can Make - Part One Posted: 18 Jun 2012 06:20 AM PDT Whether you’re just starting out in a new relationship or have been long-term partners for many years, how does a gay couple maintain their relationship over the long haul and sustain that “magical spark” that drew them together in the first place? Relationships do require attention and focus, and this article will present five deadly mistakes that you can make that can wreak havoc in your partnership, almost ensuring conflict and unhappiness. Remedies will also be offered, and keeping these points in mind can help stave off relationship discord—and even prevent a potential breakup from ever being considered! many couples to feel restless, unfulfilled, and “itching” for a change. Break out of that rut by bringing more spice and novelty to your relationship.Shake things up a little bit and dare to be different! Surprise your lover with a night out on the town to break up the mundane workweek. Introduce more creativity and variety into your sex life. Keep him guessing and on his toes for what’s coming next. By bringing in a little more excitement and stimulation, the chemistry between the two of you will be nourished, reaffirming your connection and strengthening your bond.  Deadly Mistake #4: Making assumptions about what your partner thinks and does: Interpreting your partner’s thoughts and behavior through your own lens can spell disaster, especially when you make decisions based on these judgments. You cannot read minds and jumping to conclusions will only erode the trust and security of your relationship. Even if your guy has a history of responding in a certain way in given situations, it would behoove you to not jump to conclusions and generalize his actions, as he may alter his responses or have a different mindset. Always check things out with your partner to make sure you’re both “on the same page.” This will save you from a world of grief and insecurity. Deadly Mistake #3: Not updating your relationship vision: Relationships grow and change over time, and so do the individuals in the partnership. Revisit from time-to-time with your partner about your hopes, dreams, aspirations, and goals for your relationship and yourself. This will help troubleshoot any “growing apart” tendencies by keeping the communication open. For example, with monogamy, some couples change their views on the role this plays in their relationship. If you’re in a monogamous relationship and want to open it up, don’t just act upon it without dialoguing about it with your partner first. And if you have an open relationship, don’t assume you and your partner share the same views about it as time goes on. Revisit your “relationship contract” to ensure genuine agreement still exists, avoid making assumptions, and don’t be afraid to bring up difficult topics of discussion. It’s better to hash it out than to act it out to protect the foundation of trust you’ve built. [ continued tomorrow ] © Dr. Brian Rzepczynski, The Gay Love Coach The suggestions and feedback offered in this column are but one perspective of multiple approaches to dealing with problems or challenges. Information provided in articles and advice columns should not be used as a substitute for coaching or therapy when these services are needed. None of this information should be your only source when making important life decisions. This information should not be used for diagnosing or treating a particular problem, nor should it take the place of a consultation with a trained professional. It is your responsibility to consult a professional prior to making any life decisions. Dr. Brian Rzepczynski, contributing author to GAYTWOGETHER, is one of the leading love coaches for the gay community. As a licensed dating and relationship coach, Dr. Brian Rzepczynski, DHS, MSW has over 18 years experience as a psychotherapist and life coach specializing in helping GLBT individuals and couples develop and maintain successful and fulfilling intimate relationships. He holds a doctorate degree in human sexuality from the Institute for Advanced Study of Human Sexuality and a master’s degree in clinical social work from Western Michigan University. He also runs a successful private therapy practice, Personal Victory Counseling, Inc.http://thegaylovecoach.com

Best Father's Day Adv

Toot! Toot!

G'day JustinO,

 

Don't wanna hog the Dunes but I took a ride on a vintage steam loco on Saturday and shot a video of the whole thing. Thought you and the Dunes Bois might wanna check it out for a bit of fun.

 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZPKQ3CtfWHc&feature=plcp

 

Cecil B de Kelly

 

 

3237 steam loco taree_0001.wmv

By Gary Kelly| 1 video

Watch

The Catholics for Marriage Equality Declaration

Maine’s Catholic Parishes Won’t Raise Funds for Marriage Equality Opponents by newwaysministryblog On Father's Day, June 17th, the Christian Civic League of Maine, a political action committee in Maine whose goal is to defeat marriage equality in that state's upcoming referendum, will be collecting money in approximately 200 churches, according to a report fromUSNEWS.MSNBC.MSN.com.  Notably and thankfully absent from the fundraising effort will be Catholic churches.  The report states: "The Catholic Church won't be joining the alliance, but participants include Methodist, Baptist, Pentecostal, Nazarene, Church of God, Wesleyan, Evangelical Free, Advent Christian and other denominations, the league stated. "While churches and other nonprofits may not raise money for candidates to office, they may raise money for issues important to their members. "Father's Day, June 17, seemed appropriate for a special church collection because of the day's focus on family, league Director Carroll Conley Jr told the AP. Additional collections are expected in the months ahead." Earlier this year, Bishop Richard Malone of the Catholic diocese of Portland, Maine (which includes the entire state), said that the diocese would not be taking an active part in the referendum campaign this year, as they had in 2009 when the issue was last on the ballot.  By not participating in the fundraising effort, Bishop Malone is keeping true to his word. The faith organizing to support marriage equality in Maine's referendum is being led by the Religious Coalition Against Discrimination.  Catholic involvement in the coalition is represented by Catholics for Marriage Equality, which is housed in Maine. The Catholics for Marriage Equality website contains the text of a declaration for which they are collecting signatures.  You can sign the declaration by clicking here. Since the declaration sums up Catholic pro-equality sentiments so well, it is reprinted in its entirety: The Catholics for Marriage Equality Declaration As faithful Roman Catholics we believe that the constitutional right to practice freedom of religion is based on respect for the dignity of each individual. We must guard against, not promote, the domination of one religious tradition over others in our civic life. Making respect for the dignity of all people not only an ideal but a living truth, we affirm civil marriage for same-sex couples throughout the United States. Our declaration of conscience is based on the following: The American principle of the separation of Church and State was enshrined in the Constitution to ensure that no particular religious perspective would be imposed on our pluralistic society. Catholic teaching on social justice has been central to the building of a just society, creating awareness of diversity in the human family, calling us to lives of respect, not simply tolerance, for one another. We remember that Roman Catholics were once denied civil rights, treated with suspicion, ridiculed because of our sacred rituals, and questioned as to our allegiance to “foreign authorities.” Memory challenges us to remain vigilant whenever bigotry and injustice enters into public discourse. Same-sex civil marriage does not in any way coerce any religious faith or tradition to change its beliefs or doctrine or alter its traditional marriage practices. We know that God is a most gracious and wonderful Creator. Many of us have gay and lesbian relatives and friends. We value the love and commitment we witness in their relationships; their devotion to each other and their children. Civil marriage bestows the dignity and equality called for in our nation’s highest ideals, “the inherent natural rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness." As Roman Catholics, we differentiate between sacramental marriage and civil marriage.Therefore, we perceive that same-sex civil marriage poses no threat to our Church. While we respect the authority and integrity of the Church in matters of faith, our prayers and discernment have brought us to a new openness on this issue. We do not ask the Church to perform same-sex marriages. We do implore the Church to honor the States’ prerogative to authorize civil marriages for our gay and lesbian family and friends. Grateful for the gift of our faith and the ways that we have been nourished by faith throughout our lives, and also grateful for our citizenship in America and in our particular state, we sign this statement as Roman Catholic citizens of the United States of America. --Catholics for Marriage Equality --Francis DeBernardo, New Ways Ministry newwaysministryblog | June 16, 2012 at 8:0