Beyond The Rainbow

A world stands before you as you look ahead to see
That you alone, nobody else, can tell you what to be.

You have the chance to make a choice,
So take it now, and use your voice.
Whatever path you choose to walk, rest assured of this:
You alone can pave the way, succeed or go amiss.

Into the endless skies we fly, our futures are our own.

Magic wings carry us across the bright blue sky,
Following the paths we make, our dreams will never die.

To make a choice and hold it true, to seek your heart’s desire.
Carried by this mystic force that’s burning bright like golden fire.

This path I take, the journey long, my wings will take me there.
Impossible to stop now, I can fly anywhere

Like a Dragon, wild and free, my path is what I choose.
As long as I am strong and true, I cannot ever lose!

I fly beyond the Rainbow, beyond the Sky and Sea.
Soaring high beyond this world, into Eternity.Inside our hearts, we all are kings and queens, no one can steal our throne.

MJD 9/2010 ©

The Nymph and The Bee

Words and Images from the mind of a pretty maniac.

http://thenymphandthebee.wordpress.com/2010/09/04/beyond-the-rainbow

Sometimes in life when you are following your goals and doing the best that you can, certain people like to try and bring you down. They project their negativity, their failures, and their sadness into our lives to feel better about themselves. Well, this destroying you mix portrays the push and pull, back and forth, challenging nature of taking risks and the obnoxiously large and annoying road blocks that present themselves – but more than that – it proves that there are always other routes. Always follow your dreams, never give up, and never let anyone hold you back…keep moving forward.

*special shout-out and thank you to Marc & Fausto at Feast of Fun: http://www.feastoffun.com

What can I say about my friend and photographer Bill Diodato? Well, let me start by sharing that he and I first met on season one of Bravo’s Make Me a Supermodel. Bill shot the “Into the Wild” episode. Upon meeting Bill for the first time I could tell that he was a stand-up kind of guy and learned that he had a passion for life, a passion for photography, and a passion for his family.

After MMASM, I moved to New York City from Chicago – one of the biggest risks I had ever taken. I was out of the protections of my comfort zones and hundreds of miles away from my family, but thanks to Bill & Linda and the rest of his family – I felt welcome and more at home in NYC. We have worked together several times on projects for his clients and a couple of times just for fun. One thing is for certain, Bill is a perfectionist – he does not settle for less than the perfect shot. When you shoot with Bill you are a respected and vital part of the artistic process. He makes you feel comfortable in sharing your thoughts while giving great feedback and constructive critiques thorough-out. While some photographers get frustrated and think that yelling and screaming at talent and co-workers will solve problems, Bill believes in holding the team accountable and encourages everyone around him to live up to their potential. The pictures speak for themselves!

Most recently, my friends and I attended the book release party for Bill’s recent publication, c/o Ward 81. We had such an amazing time!  “c/o Ward 81” is the first of a series of two monographs by Bill Diodato. Located in Salem – The Oregon State Insane Asylum – as it was then known and which was also the location for the classic film “One Flew Over The Cuckoos Nest” – had a ward set up at the end of the 19th Century to help women with psychiatric needs and provide them with isolation: Ward 81.

During 2005, the entire site was being redeveloped… the Oregon State Legislature authorized Bill Diodato to photograph and thus document the cremated remains of some of 3,500 deceased patients of the “Asylum” which, in one final act of inhumanity, had been exhumed.

During this very moving project – Warden Marvin Fickle also granted Bill access to the infamous closed-off Ward 81. Knowing that he would be the last person to document the ward, Bill felt a sense of responsibility to remember the women who inhabited this extraordinary place. The result is “c/o Ward 81”.

To learn more, or to purchase your very own copy of “c/o Ward 81″, please go to Bill’s web-site: http://billdiodato.com/blog

Mom shared this with me and I thought I would share it with all of you…

HIS EYE IS ON THE SPARROW

A female mate was hit by a car as she swooped low across the road, and the condition was soon fatal.

Her male mate brought her food and attended her with love and compassion.

He brought her food again, but was shocked to find her dead.

He tried to move her – a rarely seen effort.

Aware that his mate was dead and would never come back to him again, he cried with adoring love…

…and stood beside her with sadness and sorrow.

Millions of people were touched after seeing these photos in America , Europe, Australia , and even India .  The photographer sold these pictures for a nominal fee to the most famous newspaper in France .  All copies of that edition were sold out on the day these pictures were published.

And many people think animals and birds don’t have brains or feelings.  You have just witnessed love and sorrow felt by God’s creatures.  The Bible says that God knows when a sparrow falls.  Imagine how much He cares for us!

Live simply, love generously, care deeply, and speak kindly.

Foozie, Miss Foozie, all the boys go oooooooo weeeeeeee! Whenever I travel across this great planet of ours, I always seem to get the opportunity to connect with people from all different walks of life – but, with Miss. Foozie I didn’t have to travel far because she lives in my hometown of Chicago, Illinois. I remember when I first came out, 16 years old, confused, and not exactly sure what my sexuality meant. One of my girlfriends introduced me to Boystown and I was in complete awe, but yet it was still scary. Being that I was not 21 and could not go to the bars yet and The Center on Halsted community center did not exist – there was not a lot really to do, but to sit at Nookies Tree Cafe – drink coffee – read – and people watch. Enter Miss Foozie!

Ever since I can remember, Miss Foozie – female impersonator extraordinaire, not a drag queen – has been sharing smiles and friendly hellos with everyone she meets. She does not discriminate, nor does she choose to make fun of or put anyone down – she is one big ball of positive mental energy and one of the biggest hearts I have met in the industry. One time, “Fooz” and I were talking about life, career, and dreams and she just didn’t know where things were going and couldn’t see the incredible difference she was making in the lives of those around her. By day, her alter ego had a 9-5 office job, but by night she was truly a superhero – saving people’s lives in seemingly simple, but incredible ways. She has no idea what impact her outgoing personality and kind words can have on someone that perhaps has just lost their job, had a fight with a loved one, or is simply feeling alone and needs a friend to listen.

When you walk down the street in Chicago and hear her friendly voice call to you from across the way, “Hello Pineapple”, there is just a feeling of being home that comes over you – no matter where you are from – because that is how Fooz treats people, like family. Her career, like most, has had its ups and downs, but for well over 10 years Miss Foozie has been pushing forward with her dreams of making it BIG – becoming a STAR. Well, Miss Foozie, in my books you are already a star, it is just that more people are starting to realize it. Oh, and of course whenever people hug you they take some of your magical glitter with them for years to come – so it is true – you are everywhere! Keep up the incredible work and thank you for making a difference in my life and in the lives of all the countless others you inspire. You are truly a real life Superhero!!

I would like to send out a special thank you to my dear friend, John Healy, and to all the incredible folks at the Hazelden Organization. It was an honor to be asked to be a judge for “Sobriety Has Talent – Chicago” along- side the beautiful Leanza Cornett, Miss America 1993 and former ET Host, & the lovely Mary Blackburn, former Miss New Jersey. The theatre was sold out for an outstanding evening of talented acts – it was so hard to decide who should take home the prizes! What I loved about being part of this event was that it was a “safe space” – a place where everyone was truly accepted and respected for their courage and ability to overcome some heavy obstacles along their personal journey towards recovery.

Alcohol, when abused, can be just as toxic, addictive, and fatal to those who consume it as other narcotics out there that are perceived to be far more dangerous. The truth is, alcohol, like many addictions can take control of our lives without warning – it creeps up on us. It can hurt the user’s family and friends just as much, if not more-so, than the users themselves. Like any addiction, alcoholism needs to be named by the user as such first – then pro-active steps need to be taken to move beyond the need to use. Alcoholism is a disease that can be likened to various other challenges that face our society, such as HIV/AIDS or Cancer, but alcoholics do not typically receive the same support or positive public support as those that suffer from other illnesses. This fact, in my opinion, can make the admitting of having a problem with alcohol or other drugs that much more difficult. Users turn to alcohol for many reasons, but typically to escape other challenging or depressing situations, but the sad irony is – alcohol is a depressant – it gives the illusion of alleviating problems, but in reality it only makes things worse. According to the acclaimed Dr. Amen, damage done to the brain results in poor behavior, depression, and many health complications. Alcohol affects the brain in very real and damaging ways, but it does not always have to be that way – this process can be slowed and even REVERSED. Take a look at the following two videos (seven in the series) to learn more:

If you or a friend/family member is struggling with alcohol or narcotic abuse – it is never too late to get help – and it is certainly not something to be ashamed of. Organizations like Hazelden are here to provide information, counseling, and rehabilitation programs to assist along the path to recovery and to discovering healthy solutions to overwhelming situations. I am proud to support the work of Hazelden and feel honored to have met such an incredible group of strong-willed, talented, and genuinely warm-hearted people at this truly special event.

In case you haven’t read it yet, I thought I would share a blog written by John Rogers over at QUEERTY that attempts to throw our efforts of raising money for the HRC under the bus. Oh, John, you caught me! Running an illegal lottery is the least of my concerns especially now since you have led the authorities to subsequently uncover my child labor camp, my drug cartel organization, and my supermodel torture facility – much like the one in the Hostel movies. Damn, I really thought I had it all figured out, but kudos to you Mr. Rogers! My “Pinky & The Brain” plot to take over the world has been foiled again and Gotham can rest peacefully tonight.

Let me make it crystal clear, I am not and have never run an illegal lottery. As it is, I have too many occupation titles after my name – Ronnie Kroell – model, actor, activist…thief? Please, give me a little more credit than that? I started my first not-for-profit organization when I was 23 years old and currently am the co-founder of a not-for-profit, GeekNerdWonk, that is “Helping Charities Help Themselves” by raising money, conducting research projects, and assisting in grant writing proposals. I am an everyday American citizen that simply wants to see our freedoms protected.

I have to say thank you, John, for being a shining example of the main challenge that the LGBT Community is facing. We, are our own worst enemy. Why, you ask? Because we are willing to eat our own in order to satisfy ego, to create a buzz, and/or to temporarily fill some void that exists deep within ourselves. It seems that there are no limits when it comes to satisfying this need – even if others are hurt or disadvantaged in the process. Many of us behave like prepubescent children on a playground making fun of each other, criticizing each other, and then cowardly hiding behind our cliques. The truth of the matter is that there is serious work to be done, work that will take a community that is united to accomplish – not a community divided.

The Human Rights Campaign is a worthy cause, and a cause that the individuals whom have chosen to donate via my website believe in. Even if I had blindly mistepped, which I have not, I would responsibly own up to and accept the consequences for that negligence. All monies not used to pay for shipping costs of packages or prizes awarded will be donated directly to HRC so that they may continue their human rights work in the community, period.

With that being said, Mr. Rogers, I certainly do not want to be your neighbor and I would kindly ask that you keep your negativity off my lawn.

What do you get when you add a 10-week old Cavalier King Charles Spaniel puppy to the home of one of the most beautiful and wonderful Moms in the world? One very HAPPY BIRTHDAY…

Let me give you a little history to bring you into the loop. When I was a kid, I had a really sweet parakeet named Charlie – it was my first real pet. I would talk to him, sing with him, and he was really one of my best friends. Until, I woke up one morning to find Charlie on the floor of his cage not moving. I yelled for my mom and broke down in tears as I called out his name several times. It turns out, Charlie developed pneumonia and passed away in his sleep. I had no idea what that was – all I knew was that my friend was gone. My Mom was beside herself, she couldn’t stand to see me in such pain. So, after calming me down and explaining that Charlie went to Heaven she went out to the toy store and brought me back “Sad Sam”, my new stuffed animal puppy friend. Although it didn’t completely rid the pain and loss I was feeling, it certainly put a band-aid on my heart. I still have Sad Sammy to this day and it brings me back to my childhood, reminding me of the loving parents I have been blessed to have.

Fast forward to present day. My Mom has been talking about being in love with Cavalier King Charles puppies for a few years. She has been going to dog shows, watching the “puppy bowl”, and dreaming of having one of her very own. So, about a month ago I started looking for just the special puppy to get Mom for her Birthday. After searching for quite some time I stumbled upon a site that had a 10-week old pup, named Sammy! It could not have been any more perfect. I spoke with the breeders several times and told them how important this project was, it had to be a success. They always say, never to surprise anyone with a dog, but sometimes you just have to do something crazy and outside of the box. I wanted Mom to have this pup more than anything – she deserved it. So, with some hesitation I decided to take the plunge and reserve Sammy (who was born and raised in Iowa). I had been planning a work trip to my hometown of Chicago, so it was a great opportunity to drive and pick the little guy up personally.

Taylor joined me on a 4 – hour journey (each way in a car borrowed from my Dad), to the “largest truck stop in the world” to meet the breeder – who was kind enough to drive half way to meet us. Sammy was more adorable in person than in the pictures, which was hard to imagine possible! His little puppy dog eyes, his tail wagging, and his puppy kisses were all signs of his eagerness to be in his new home. When we arrived home we had to figure out how to surprise Mom. So, Taylor brought in the collar first with the personalized heart tag and asked her to step into the living room – giving me just enough time to sneak in with Sammy and present him to her officially. Tears welled up in Mom’s eyes as Sammy instantly took to her and showered her with kisses – our hearts melted. My step-dad, Gary, returned home from work (also unaware of our little scheme), and was greeted by Sammy taking his first wee on the carpet…oops! Well, let’s just say Sammy had some work to do on his new Dad, but mission accomplished.

Sammy, after a visit with Dr. Harris at the Morton Grove Animal Hospital, has been declared healthy and in amazing shape! Our new friends Linda, Jan, and Anna were all so kind and informative about our new puppy. They told us that Sammy’s visit really made their day! To be honest, it is going to be hard for us to go back to NYC after falling head over heels for this special guy. BUT, seeing my Mom so genuinely happy and laughing out loud with Sammy has made this entire adventure worthwhile. Mom & Sammy were meant for each other and I know that many special memories will come of this union. Life truly is about simple moments like these, shared with family and friends. Nothing else really matters.

Welcome to the family, Sammy!! You are in good company with Spike, Tiny, Calamity Jane, Markie Morkie, and Francis.

It’s HUMP Day!

We made it halfway through the work week AND I am ready for another fun in the sun summer weekend!! This has been a special week because it involved a gathering of friends to celebrate the work of GeekNerdWonk & Take Back Pride. We gathered to honor my friend and community activist Jamie McGonnigal for his upcoming appearance on The Daily Show. In attendance was the all too witty and gracious hostess Stephanie A. Jones, my handsome boyfriend Taylor Proffitt, the lovely David & Alison Stewart (Alison & Paul Show), the organically charged, anti-aging goddess, and all around visionary Mary Schook, superstar stylists to the stars Jason Stephen & Geoffrey Mac, the real deal 2009 consultant Oscar Lopez who has fought tirelessly in Albany on behalf of the Latino Commission on Aids, family advocate and author Amy Hatkoff, the suave, loyal, and adorable Armando Marrero who provided a safe and warm home to reside in when I first moved to NYC, and last but certainly not least – our friends Eric Gratton & Marissa Von Bleicken.

New York City, while beautiful and filled with opportunity, can be a very daunting place to live. BUT, when you have friends like I do – anything is possible. In life it is so important to hold the good ones close and not to take them for granted – that is why I count my blessings each and every day.  Now, it is on to Chicago to celebrate my Mom’s Birthday, assist with Hazelden Organization’s “Sobriety’s Got Talent”, visit my friends at Spacio Spa to raise some money for the Center on Halsted, and to spend some quality time just enjoying my hometown.

On another note, Fashion Week is just around the corner and I am SO looking forward to it!! Are any of you participating in FW NYC at all? Please let me know what is going on in your worlds. I hope everyone is having a great week and that all of your projects and goals are coming to fruition – as it is JULY- 2010 is halfway over already. Don’t lose sight of what you set off to accomplish – no matter what the challenge – keep pushing forward. I too am guilty of getting discouraged, lazy, or simply letting the actions of others affect my work ethic, BUT we cannot let that hold us back. Take some time to reflect on your goals, the people that you have chosen to spend time with, the clothes you are wearing, the food that you are eating – and just assess what is working and notice what is not. Above all else, take care of you – and along the way be sure to take care of others.

Lots of love,

Ronnie