Feeling Toxic

Feeling Toxic
04-11-2005
9:33 AM

God am I hurting this morning. I think that sentence took a whole minute to write.

Another Auditor Night Out, but this one was dedicated to the pilots and EFLPs. Ravi, Judy, Jeff, and Nazanine are all leaving tomorrow. The room is going to be much emptier when they’re gone.

Stopped by Nazanine’s place last night before heading to dinner. We got lost, which is a reoccurring theme with whoever decides to go with her. Finally arrived at Sostanza (ditto il Troia) at 9:25 PM. We walked by it a few times; it didn’t look like all the other places we’ve eaten at.

The place reminded me of an Italian style diner; very small, limited seating, tons of cool pictures of on the walls. The appetizers were the same raw meats we get everywhere else. We had a choice between chicken or beef. I ordered the beef and to my surprise, it’s one of the best steaks I’ve ever had. No need for the A1 sauce. Desert was a bit weird. I had the wild strawberries and crème. Interesting taste but good nonetheless.

I tried to pace myself with the wine at dinner; for every glass of wine, I drank a glass of water. I knew what the night had in store for us after dinner – the Old Stove. All 16 of us stopped there and I think a bunch of the locals were turned off, so they left. Ordered the first round of Guinness for all and I was the first to finish. I knew they were going to give me hell for it so I started talking smack. Three full glasses and a few shots later, the rest of the night became a blur.

Closing time and I had to break the seal. Everyone was gone by the time I got out and I was somewhat relieved. But there was Vasco and Ashraf waiting. Went to my first club in Italy. This place was incredible, but I question the logistics.

Instead of paying a cover, you take this ticket into the club. Every time you want a drink, take the ticket to the bar tender and they hole punch it. At this point I’m thinking “Sweet. Free cover and free drinks? Where the hell has this been my whole life?” Two more long islands and I was ready to go home.

I try to exit and the bouncer asks for my ticket. He’s like you need to pay. WHAT? So they took us back downstairs and we had to pay the 16EU cover, plus 8+EU for the drinks. Absurd. My tab came to 32EU or so. Knew it was too good to be true. I was duped.

Took the cab home and I don’t remember anything from that point. I’m pretty sure I called Tasia since the phone was on my bed with my calling card. Rough start to the morning.


More random thoughts

I’m getting hooked on the Acqua Frizzante (sparkling water.) I like the tingle it leaves in your mouth, but it’s gross when warm and stale (like the one I’m drinking now.)

I am in love with this desert from the vending machine. Abe told me to try the chocolate filled croissant and it’s good. I eat 3 a day.

The best red wine is from Montepulciano. Hands down.

My urinal’s name is Dolemite.

My midterm review is today and my final on Tuesday. I have 4 days to improve. Great.

I have hair again. The line is still receding but can cover it up well.
I see snails and earthworms at night around the office.

I wish I brought Gold Bond.

I’d rather be playing craps right now. Damn vices.

Traffic laws are more guides than laws. My cab driver this morning drove on the opposite lanes for 50% of the ride. I got to work in 5 minutes and under 10EU. Amazing.