Hocus Pocus turns 18

Watching Hocus Pocus on its 18th year, on the same night the movie was set in, on the same night I first saw it when I was 7. A tradition I shan't break.







































I had really hoped for a sequel.

AVE MERCVRIVS

Today is the third Wednesday from the Kalends (Noumenia) of October, and the third day of my three-day thanksgiving to Hermes-Mercurius as god of commerce and travel. I have so far already offered white chocolate mocha on the first day, hot chocolate with cinnamon and nutmeg on the second day at our house herm, and green tea latte today (though, I did originally promise strawberries and cream).

I joyfully consumed them all in his honour; but, of course, not without a symbolic libation (our business areas are carpeted).

As someone who depends on sales, wit, and cunning for a living -- not to mention being in a business that involves travel and hospitality -- I owe him heaps. So, be thou well, Mercator! Agoraios! Fortunus! Beloved lord and friend!

As you will recognise, this is the prayer I offer you before beginning every work day:

Hear thou Mercury, full of luck,
Who guides the traffic of merchants and travellers:
Praises I pour out to thee,
O champion of commerce, silver-tongued god.
Open my day today to all things auspicious and fortunate,
To joyous business and prosperous sales,
As you have always done, faithful friend.
Be thou increased in power, o god dearest to mankind,
So that we may be increased in joy.

If you like it, please continue to bless my path, my words, and my business -- and that of my kin -- every single day.

Die, Gumby

This green bastard used to scare me. I'm still a little freaked out looking at him. Happy 90th Birthday, Art Clokey! We can take down the little green goblin now, thanks.

National Coming Out Day

Today is National Coming Out Day. I am coming out to all of you in behalf of those who cannot.

Let it be known that I am gay. And lesbian. And trans, queer, pan, and bi. Also intersexual, asexual, pomosexual, questioning, unlabelled, and undecided. I am everything this intolerant, ignorant society cannot accept. But I am a human being and I shall not stand by as others tell me I do not deserve the same rights that they enjoy.

I am here. I will not be bullied. I deserve the same humanity.

If you can, I hope you can come out with us, too. For equality and awareness, may we achieve victory in doing so.