Thank you for all your prayers so far. They have been working. Please keep it up.
I have been a lot more mindful of not sinning in my anger. While I haven't responded only in love, it's been good for the most part.
Please pray for C. She got a sinus infection and is on some antibiotics. Please pray that these meds will work well.
Thanks,
R
Saturday, June 14, 2008
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Recap - Travel
Time flies when you're having fun. It also flies when you're stressed and tired, too.
All in all, it hasn't been that bad. Or at least that's what I keep telling myself.
M had a beast of a time with the first two flights' descents. We didn't get the nose drops in quick enough and she wailed at the pain in her ears. We apologized to those around us, but in general they responded by telling us what a good job the girls did and what great parents we were. We were very happy to hear those kind words.
Things did not go smoothly from the outset. We arrived at ABIA to find out that our flight to O'Hare was canceled due to weather and they were working with Air France to get us on another flight. Tom from United did a superb job getting us taken care of. At one point he asked if we wanted to come back Tuesday and we declined. Thankfully we got there 2 hours early, or we probably would've been one of the number of people on standby that were left mad and waiting as we taxied down the runway. I had the pleasure of getting the extra search. They had flagged M's ticket too, but the nice FSA gentleman saw she was only 3 and took care of things. The flight to Hotlanta was uneventful. The girls had a great time on their first flight. S was cracking up as M kept opening and closing the window. It's such a joy when those belly laughs come out. At the airport they had a nice underground train to take you to and from the terminals, so we opted to take a ride to get Chick-Fil-A nuggets for the girls instead of Mickey Dees. We have plenty of time, said I. We got back to the gate just in time to board.
As we left the ATL for Paris, a storm was coming in. M didn't care for the lightning and wanted to keep the "door" closed. The staff were quite helpful and gave the girls each a little gift. M got a purse that had a card game and a small numbers puzzle. S got a little green crab with a mouse in it. The meal wasn't too bad. M didn't want any of the ravioli she was given, but munched down on the brownie. Oh well. The girls didn't fall asleep till about 10:30 or so. S slept all the way until we arrived in Paris. M not so much. She woke up with 3-4 hours left in the flight to go to the restroom, which was good because Daddy forgot to put a pull-up on her before she fell asleep. But, as she did during our Nebraska trip, she was fairly quiet while she was awake. C got her to fall back asleep maybe 45 minutes before our arrival and she woke up several minutes after we landed. Our experience at CDG was rather fateful. We got a little lost and finally got to our terminal. We found the way to our gate, but the person had a hard time finding our boarding passes and her disdain for us was so palpable you could cut it with a knife. Thankfully there was a kind man who helped us out and we were able to board our final flight of the day. The mean woman was indignant with him too. I didn't understand her French, but her tone and body language said "You've got to be kidding me!" I think if she rolled her eyes more they might've just stayed in the back of her head.
So we get on the AirEuropa flight to Malaga and the lady says 'Hola'. I respond with 'Buenos Tardes'. I said a couple of other things to her in my best Spanish accent, but either she didn't understand me or she didn't want to. The overall service wasn't too bad, although with only one working toilet in economy, the line got a little long. As the plane touched down, a woman next to us started clapping feverishly and was soon joined by others lending their approval. So did we just happen to get a good pilot that day? Was she a frequent traveler on this route and an uneventful landing isn't routine? Does she have some disorder where she just gets overexcited about normal things. Maybe she was a cheerleader and is always so happy.
We got our bags and only a minute later Tio walked in the door to greet us. He only had to shell out 15 cents for his parking. He fit all the suitcases and the stroller in the trunk and off we went in his Primera. It was a short drive to their apartment and we were in Malaga! Tragedy almost struck, however, as it took us quite some time to find M's pink night-night. C finally found it in one of the backpacks. Phew!! That is one thing we cannot do without.
Praise the Lord!!
All in all, it hasn't been that bad. Or at least that's what I keep telling myself.
M had a beast of a time with the first two flights' descents. We didn't get the nose drops in quick enough and she wailed at the pain in her ears. We apologized to those around us, but in general they responded by telling us what a good job the girls did and what great parents we were. We were very happy to hear those kind words.
Things did not go smoothly from the outset. We arrived at ABIA to find out that our flight to O'Hare was canceled due to weather and they were working with Air France to get us on another flight. Tom from United did a superb job getting us taken care of. At one point he asked if we wanted to come back Tuesday and we declined. Thankfully we got there 2 hours early, or we probably would've been one of the number of people on standby that were left mad and waiting as we taxied down the runway. I had the pleasure of getting the extra search. They had flagged M's ticket too, but the nice FSA gentleman saw she was only 3 and took care of things. The flight to Hotlanta was uneventful. The girls had a great time on their first flight. S was cracking up as M kept opening and closing the window. It's such a joy when those belly laughs come out. At the airport they had a nice underground train to take you to and from the terminals, so we opted to take a ride to get Chick-Fil-A nuggets for the girls instead of Mickey Dees. We have plenty of time, said I. We got back to the gate just in time to board.
As we left the ATL for Paris, a storm was coming in. M didn't care for the lightning and wanted to keep the "door" closed. The staff were quite helpful and gave the girls each a little gift. M got a purse that had a card game and a small numbers puzzle. S got a little green crab with a mouse in it. The meal wasn't too bad. M didn't want any of the ravioli she was given, but munched down on the brownie. Oh well. The girls didn't fall asleep till about 10:30 or so. S slept all the way until we arrived in Paris. M not so much. She woke up with 3-4 hours left in the flight to go to the restroom, which was good because Daddy forgot to put a pull-up on her before she fell asleep. But, as she did during our Nebraska trip, she was fairly quiet while she was awake. C got her to fall back asleep maybe 45 minutes before our arrival and she woke up several minutes after we landed. Our experience at CDG was rather fateful. We got a little lost and finally got to our terminal. We found the way to our gate, but the person had a hard time finding our boarding passes and her disdain for us was so palpable you could cut it with a knife. Thankfully there was a kind man who helped us out and we were able to board our final flight of the day. The mean woman was indignant with him too. I didn't understand her French, but her tone and body language said "You've got to be kidding me!" I think if she rolled her eyes more they might've just stayed in the back of her head.
So we get on the AirEuropa flight to Malaga and the lady says 'Hola'. I respond with 'Buenos Tardes'. I said a couple of other things to her in my best Spanish accent, but either she didn't understand me or she didn't want to. The overall service wasn't too bad, although with only one working toilet in economy, the line got a little long. As the plane touched down, a woman next to us started clapping feverishly and was soon joined by others lending their approval. So did we just happen to get a good pilot that day? Was she a frequent traveler on this route and an uneventful landing isn't routine? Does she have some disorder where she just gets overexcited about normal things. Maybe she was a cheerleader and is always so happy.
We got our bags and only a minute later Tio walked in the door to greet us. He only had to shell out 15 cents for his parking. He fit all the suitcases and the stroller in the trunk and off we went in his Primera. It was a short drive to their apartment and we were in Malaga! Tragedy almost struck, however, as it took us quite some time to find M's pink night-night. C finally found it in one of the backpacks. Phew!! That is one thing we cannot do without.
Praise the Lord!!
Saturday, June 07, 2008
Mister Fix-It
As a man, you want to be able to fix things that are broken and perform the basic tasks in the house.
The light-bulb on our garage-door opener cannot stay lit. I bought those special bulbs specifically designed for the opener, but it only took a couple of days before their weak filaments broke. I had an idea. Those newfangled compact fluorescent bulbs don't have filaments. I installed one of those puppies last night. We'll see how long it lasts.
The driver's-side light bulb went out in the car a couple of weeks ago. I found a web thread that discussed how to do it and it sounded simple enough. Doesn't it always seem that way? The final line was "The whole job takes 5 minutes to do. When you have done it once you will kick yourself as to how easy it is." Maybe my problem is that we have a 2002 Sonata and not a 2003. I ended up taking off the lamp assembly and got the new bulb in easy enough. The tough part was getting the spring back on. As most men do, I didn't pay enough attention when taking the spring off to figure out how to get it back on. (Ladies, please try your best to stifle your laughter) So I had to open up the passenger's-side to see how the spring was done. Five minutes later I had that puppy in there. Sheesh! So it took me 30 minutes in all. But hey, if you need a bulb replaced on an '02 Sonata, I'm your man.
Our poor lawn mower sounds like its drunk lately. It'll go puuuuurrrrrrr, cough, cough, wheeze, puuuuurrrrrr, cough, cough, wheeze. Repeat ad nauseum. Today I changed the oil and spark plug. The oil was this blue color and opaque; that didn't look so bad until the new stuff I put in was this blue and clear. I pulled the spark plug out and it was as black as night with the blackness caked on. The new one was nice and shiny silver. We'll see on Monday if it works or if it's a different problem.
But I feel extra manly today. Next thing to do: rinse out the air filter.
The light-bulb on our garage-door opener cannot stay lit. I bought those special bulbs specifically designed for the opener, but it only took a couple of days before their weak filaments broke. I had an idea. Those newfangled compact fluorescent bulbs don't have filaments. I installed one of those puppies last night. We'll see how long it lasts.
The driver's-side light bulb went out in the car a couple of weeks ago. I found a web thread that discussed how to do it and it sounded simple enough. Doesn't it always seem that way? The final line was "The whole job takes 5 minutes to do. When you have done it once you will kick yourself as to how easy it is." Maybe my problem is that we have a 2002 Sonata and not a 2003. I ended up taking off the lamp assembly and got the new bulb in easy enough. The tough part was getting the spring back on. As most men do, I didn't pay enough attention when taking the spring off to figure out how to get it back on. (Ladies, please try your best to stifle your laughter) So I had to open up the passenger's-side to see how the spring was done. Five minutes later I had that puppy in there. Sheesh! So it took me 30 minutes in all. But hey, if you need a bulb replaced on an '02 Sonata, I'm your man.
Our poor lawn mower sounds like its drunk lately. It'll go puuuuurrrrrrr, cough, cough, wheeze, puuuuurrrrrr, cough, cough, wheeze. Repeat ad nauseum. Today I changed the oil and spark plug. The oil was this blue color and opaque; that didn't look so bad until the new stuff I put in was this blue and clear. I pulled the spark plug out and it was as black as night with the blackness caked on. The new one was nice and shiny silver. We'll see on Monday if it works or if it's a different problem.
But I feel extra manly today. Next thing to do: rinse out the air filter.
See You In July
As I left the lab yesterday, I was able to say that with a big grin on my face.
I'll be out of the office for the rest of the month of June, right at the end of the quarter. If you think about it, pray that C Corp and APL will continue to prosper while I'm not there. I think I left them in pretty good shape with only one unfinished project and all my instruments maintained. The great thing about being out three weeks is that they can't just leave all my work for me when I get back. They'll actually have to do it. :o)
I'll be out of the office for the rest of the month of June, right at the end of the quarter. If you think about it, pray that C Corp and APL will continue to prosper while I'm not there. I think I left them in pretty good shape with only one unfinished project and all my instruments maintained. The great thing about being out three weeks is that they can't just leave all my work for me when I get back. They'll actually have to do it. :o)
Tuesday, June 03, 2008
PacMan on the Up-and-Up?
There's funny and there's this:
"Since being traded to the Cowboys, Jones has tried to surround himself with a better support group. He's befriended former Cowboys Michael Irvin and Deion Sanders... Jones also has become friends with...Tank Johnson, whom the Cowboys helped return from a similar suspension last season."
Is he going to start dating Amy Winehouse too?
Perhaps he'll ask Odell Thurman or Chris Henry to rent rooms from his new Dallas digs to cut down on his living expenses.
"Since being traded to the Cowboys, Jones has tried to surround himself with a better support group. He's befriended former Cowboys Michael Irvin and Deion Sanders... Jones also has become friends with...Tank Johnson, whom the Cowboys helped return from a similar suspension last season."
Is he going to start dating Amy Winehouse too?
Perhaps he'll ask Odell Thurman or Chris Henry to rent rooms from his new Dallas digs to cut down on his living expenses.
Hockey
I'm one of those fans that will watch the Finals of just about anything. I actually enjoy watching hockey in addition to the finals. Just love the speed and the artistry with which these men handle the puck and deke a defender out of his skates.
Needless to say, I'm pumped the series is heading back to Pittsburgh for a game six. The NBC crew does an amazing job and they keep the energy going as well, if not better than, Bill Simmon's man-crush Gus Johnson. I thoroughly enjoyed Game 3. The fans were on their game. They cheered for every hit, whether the weak or the bone-crushing variety and the announcers fed off that energy and delivered an Emmy-winning performance. Pierre McGuire sits in a little glass booth between the team benches and gives us a feel for body language and things overheard. Go here for the bios of the color and studio teams.
I know one thing though: If the Pens want to win this series they need to take better care of the puck. They've had a lot of silly passes intercepted by the Wings to start odd-man rushes and there's the example of Hossa, who just can't seem to keep the puck on his stick, wasting opportunities.
Another thing I look forward to is the Canadians. It's not every day that you hear the word Calgary pronounces cal-GARY. Love it. Fires me up.
And then there's this commercial.
Needless to say, I'm pumped the series is heading back to Pittsburgh for a game six. The NBC crew does an amazing job and they keep the energy going as well, if not better than, Bill Simmon's man-crush Gus Johnson. I thoroughly enjoyed Game 3. The fans were on their game. They cheered for every hit, whether the weak or the bone-crushing variety and the announcers fed off that energy and delivered an Emmy-winning performance. Pierre McGuire sits in a little glass booth between the team benches and gives us a feel for body language and things overheard. Go here for the bios of the color and studio teams.
I know one thing though: If the Pens want to win this series they need to take better care of the puck. They've had a lot of silly passes intercepted by the Wings to start odd-man rushes and there's the example of Hossa, who just can't seem to keep the puck on his stick, wasting opportunities.
Another thing I look forward to is the Canadians. It's not every day that you hear the word Calgary pronounces cal-GARY. Love it. Fires me up.
And then there's this commercial.
Imitation
It's the sincerest form of flattery. I've now had to posts stolen from ESPN columnists. First, Mark Schlabach ripped off my 2008 College Football Preview and now comes the imminent Jayson Stark.
In this article, his second question is Can Lance Berkman or Josh Hamilton win a Triple Crown?
Thank you Jayson. This one is free. The next one will cost you.
In this article, his second question is Can Lance Berkman or Josh Hamilton win a Triple Crown?
Thank you Jayson. This one is free. The next one will cost you.
Monday, May 26, 2008
TWIB
I used to love watching This Week in Baseball when I was growing up. I love hearing Mel Allen as he went through the show.
One of the token things I always look for during the season is the batting Triple Crown: lead the league in average, homers and ribbies.
Currently, one player from each league has a shot.
In the AL, Josh Hamilton is tied for second in BA (.333 [only .005 behind leader]), second in round trippers (12 [2 behind]) and first in RBI (53 [10 ahead]).
In the NL, Lance "Men at" Berkman is second in BA (.385 [-.032]), tied for first in homers (16) and first in RBI (46 [+3]).
This is only the second year in The Show for Hamilton, so I don't see him sustaining his pace, although he wasn't that shabby last year. He's a lefty, so he'll definitely get the opportunity against a lot of righties to pad those stats, especially since the Rangers aren't exactly a murderer's row. The main question is, will he get enough plate appearances?
Oddly enough, the top two men in average in the NL are switch-hitters. An article a week or so ago about Chipper Jones mentioned how hard it is for him because he has to practice two different swings. Berkman plays at HomeRun Park, so that'll help him a bit. His stats tell us that he's on pace with his 2002 and 2006 campaigns, which were his best years for average, homers and ribbies. He's more patient at the plate this year and he's an every-day player. The question though, is will his average hold up? He's a career .304 hitter. Those '02 and '06 seasons gave us .331 and .315. Plus, he's got Albert Pujols lying in wait for him. Sir Albert is a lifetime .332 hitter and his average, homers and RBI are all higher than Berkman.
One thing these guys can't control, however, is those RBI. They're kinda danged if they do, danged if they don't if the men in front of them get on base. They're likely to see better pitches with nobody on.
It'll be an exciting race to watch.
To be continued...
One of the token things I always look for during the season is the batting Triple Crown: lead the league in average, homers and ribbies.
Currently, one player from each league has a shot.
In the AL, Josh Hamilton is tied for second in BA (.333 [only .005 behind leader]), second in round trippers (12 [2 behind]) and first in RBI (53 [10 ahead]).
In the NL, Lance "Men at" Berkman is second in BA (.385 [-.032]), tied for first in homers (16) and first in RBI (46 [+3]).
This is only the second year in The Show for Hamilton, so I don't see him sustaining his pace, although he wasn't that shabby last year. He's a lefty, so he'll definitely get the opportunity against a lot of righties to pad those stats, especially since the Rangers aren't exactly a murderer's row. The main question is, will he get enough plate appearances?
Oddly enough, the top two men in average in the NL are switch-hitters. An article a week or so ago about Chipper Jones mentioned how hard it is for him because he has to practice two different swings. Berkman plays at HomeRun Park, so that'll help him a bit. His stats tell us that he's on pace with his 2002 and 2006 campaigns, which were his best years for average, homers and ribbies. He's more patient at the plate this year and he's an every-day player. The question though, is will his average hold up? He's a career .304 hitter. Those '02 and '06 seasons gave us .331 and .315. Plus, he's got Albert Pujols lying in wait for him. Sir Albert is a lifetime .332 hitter and his average, homers and RBI are all higher than Berkman.
One thing these guys can't control, however, is those RBI. They're kinda danged if they do, danged if they don't if the men in front of them get on base. They're likely to see better pitches with nobody on.
It'll be an exciting race to watch.
To be continued...
Grey's Anatomy
So, the season is over. What are we to expect from next season?
Meredith goes into bankruptcy after spending $2000 on candles and glasses for their future house because she can't afford medical care after winds whip up the flames and give her third degree burns over 90% of her body.
Derek gets hurt in an accident on his way to tell Rose that he's going back to Meredith and is in a coma for four weeks. He and Mer are put in the same room. Yang and Rose become best friends as they spend most of their time caring for the two invalids.
The girl that lived through the trial will be pregnant and her parents will sue Seattle Grace, Derek & Meredith. Her child will be a boy and she'll name it after her dead boyfriend with Derek as his middle name.
Meredith (and Derek in absentia) will be suspended for doing the extra attempt even though it worked. The chief will also be suspended for it being at his hospital.
George will retake his intern test, but fail again by one point because he is so disturbed by the new romance between Callie & Hahn. He will then become a manny for Bailey's boy so that her husband can go back to work. Several weeks later, a scoring error will be revealed from the first test, but George decides to stay a manny, saying he has found peace and enlightenment.
Tune in this fall to see what predictions come true.
Meredith goes into bankruptcy after spending $2000 on candles and glasses for their future house because she can't afford medical care after winds whip up the flames and give her third degree burns over 90% of her body.
Derek gets hurt in an accident on his way to tell Rose that he's going back to Meredith and is in a coma for four weeks. He and Mer are put in the same room. Yang and Rose become best friends as they spend most of their time caring for the two invalids.
The girl that lived through the trial will be pregnant and her parents will sue Seattle Grace, Derek & Meredith. Her child will be a boy and she'll name it after her dead boyfriend with Derek as his middle name.
Meredith (and Derek in absentia) will be suspended for doing the extra attempt even though it worked. The chief will also be suspended for it being at his hospital.
George will retake his intern test, but fail again by one point because he is so disturbed by the new romance between Callie & Hahn. He will then become a manny for Bailey's boy so that her husband can go back to work. Several weeks later, a scoring error will be revealed from the first test, but George decides to stay a manny, saying he has found peace and enlightenment.
Tune in this fall to see what predictions come true.
Sunday, May 18, 2008
CMAs
Me and the missus were watching the awards show tonight and two artists threw their guitars off-stage. Now, did they have to go hire a "hands team" to field the guitars, or is it someone from their crew they tour with whose responsibility is to catch the Fender? How much does that person get paid? If you drop one do you get fired? Or do you practice? If so, how many hours of practice do you go through? Do they have guitar crash-test dummies? Do you get your wages garnished if you drop one or break a string?
George Strait. Still going strong after all these years. To give some perspective on how many years that is, he was my big sister's heartthrob back in the day. Him and Joe Montana.
Why did Tony Romo dump Carrie Underwood for Jessica Simpson? That's like a new junior partner in a huge law firm being offered a Bentley as a signing bonus and saying "Do you have a used car I could lease?" Because everybody knows, if you got Jess, you get Joe too. *shudder*
George Strait. Still going strong after all these years. To give some perspective on how many years that is, he was my big sister's heartthrob back in the day. Him and Joe Montana.
Why did Tony Romo dump Carrie Underwood for Jessica Simpson? That's like a new junior partner in a huge law firm being offered a Bentley as a signing bonus and saying "Do you have a used car I could lease?" Because everybody knows, if you got Jess, you get Joe too. *shudder*
Tuesday, May 06, 2008
And The Answer Is...
Yes, I can walk today. The only thing I feel is my right shoulder clicking a little bit.
Monday, May 05, 2008
Old Man Haiku
I know, I know. I'm not officially old yet. That'll happen in October.
Nevertheless, I submit the following poem:
Haven't played hoops in
ten years. Will I be able
to walk tomorrow?
Nevertheless, I submit the following poem:
Haven't played hoops in
ten years. Will I be able
to walk tomorrow?
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Points Proved
In case you missed them, I panned both Jason Castro and Paula Abdul in two recent posts.
Jason did nothing tonight to prove me wrong, and, in fact, made things worse for himself. The only way he gets through is if that web site asks all its readers to vote for him.
Was Paula drunk tonight? I'll give her the benefit of the doubt that she was thrown off by Seacrest's impromptu call for a quick assessment. (He had previously said the judges would give their takes after the second song. When she started talking about Jason's second song, the cameras quickly focused in on the confused host, contestants, judges and audience. And once more I plead with you, LOSE THE BANGS! I know the '80s are coming back, but at least with those bangs we could still see your eyes. Maybe she was trying to hide the dark circles from her hangover!
Jason did nothing tonight to prove me wrong, and, in fact, made things worse for himself. The only way he gets through is if that web site asks all its readers to vote for him.
Was Paula drunk tonight? I'll give her the benefit of the doubt that she was thrown off by Seacrest's impromptu call for a quick assessment. (He had previously said the judges would give their takes after the second song. When she started talking about Jason's second song, the cameras quickly focused in on the confused host, contestants, judges and audience. And once more I plead with you, LOSE THE BANGS! I know the '80s are coming back, but at least with those bangs we could still see your eyes. Maybe she was trying to hide the dark circles from her hangover!
Friday, April 25, 2008
Simmons Cracks Me Up
For those of you that don't know, I'm a big fan of the Sports Guy on ESPN2. He's got a great sense of humor and regular gets me laughing.
Today at lunch I was reading his Awards column. Scroll to about two-thirds the way down and read the section entitled The Raymond Babbit Award, but especially the aside in parenthesis. I almost spewed the water in my mouth and I was literally crying.
Thanks SG. Keep it up.
Today at lunch I was reading his Awards column. Scroll to about two-thirds the way down and read the section entitled The Raymond Babbit Award, but especially the aside in parenthesis. I almost spewed the water in my mouth and I was literally crying.
Thanks SG. Keep it up.
Date Night
C and I went out on Wednesday night to the outlet mall.
You know how in most stores the clerks don't care if you go into the dressing room together? Well, we went to this one store called Papaya, where they had two signs posted outside the dressing room area that said "NO BOYS ALLOWED". I applaud them for having the mores to not allow guys in. While it may be a convenience for those married folks who want to put something flirty on just to see how it looks, I'd rather them have a moral compass.
After we were done shopping, we sat down in Starbucks to make some lists to help us be better organized. While we were there, I noticed a sign on a Sirena Espresso Machine that said:
"Everyday low price $399"
If that's the low price, I'd hate to pay the normal price. Sheesh.
You know how in most stores the clerks don't care if you go into the dressing room together? Well, we went to this one store called Papaya, where they had two signs posted outside the dressing room area that said "NO BOYS ALLOWED". I applaud them for having the mores to not allow guys in. While it may be a convenience for those married folks who want to put something flirty on just to see how it looks, I'd rather them have a moral compass.
After we were done shopping, we sat down in Starbucks to make some lists to help us be better organized. While we were there, I noticed a sign on a Sirena Espresso Machine that said:
"Everyday low price $399"
If that's the low price, I'd hate to pay the normal price. Sheesh.
American Idol Results Show
Last night on American Idol, Paula Abdul was voted off. A stunned Paula Abdul lashed out at the voting public "I just renewed my contract. You can't vote me off!" Ryan Seacrest asked fellow judges Simon Cowell and Randy Jackson what Paula could take away from her time on the show to help her in the future.
Randy said "You know, it was just a'ight for me. I wasn't really feeling it this season. I think she found her niche with all the complimenting. Maybe having actual thoughts isn't what she's best at. I think she should try motivational speaking."
Simon replied "I thought her judging this season has been rather cabaret. She had a strong show in week two of the finals when she actually gave a relevant opinion based on the singing. I think going forward she needs to stop focusing on the contestants' appearance and more on their vocals."
Producer Simon Fuller was seen backstage giving high-fives to everyone he saw. He gave an extended hug to a surprised key grip. Asked to explain his jubilation, Fuller gave the following press release, including a job posting:
Dear Idol fans,
Although we were given only six-and-a-half years of Paula's presence on Idol, it felt so much longer. She was a key third member of our judging panel and provided an uplifting spirit to help our contestants feel good about themselves even when they performed poorly. In lieu of flowers, please feel free to buy a Ford, a Coca-Cola product or donate to Idol Gives Back.
In the spirit of Idol Gives Back, we are sending Paula to Ethiopia for what would have been the remainder of her contract with Fox.
Consequently, we are in need of an analyst to join Simon and Randy. The successful candidate must have a mind of her own, be able to form a cogent analysis of the performances, and have a stylist with a sense of current fashion trends (Note: No bangs allowed). Experience feigning romantic tension a plus.
Sincerely,
Simon Fuller
(Sigh) If only that were true.
Randy said "You know, it was just a'ight for me. I wasn't really feeling it this season. I think she found her niche with all the complimenting. Maybe having actual thoughts isn't what she's best at. I think she should try motivational speaking."
Simon replied "I thought her judging this season has been rather cabaret. She had a strong show in week two of the finals when she actually gave a relevant opinion based on the singing. I think going forward she needs to stop focusing on the contestants' appearance and more on their vocals."
Producer Simon Fuller was seen backstage giving high-fives to everyone he saw. He gave an extended hug to a surprised key grip. Asked to explain his jubilation, Fuller gave the following press release, including a job posting:
Dear Idol fans,
Although we were given only six-and-a-half years of Paula's presence on Idol, it felt so much longer. She was a key third member of our judging panel and provided an uplifting spirit to help our contestants feel good about themselves even when they performed poorly. In lieu of flowers, please feel free to buy a Ford, a Coca-Cola product or donate to Idol Gives Back.
In the spirit of Idol Gives Back, we are sending Paula to Ethiopia for what would have been the remainder of her contract with Fox.
Consequently, we are in need of an analyst to join Simon and Randy. The successful candidate must have a mind of her own, be able to form a cogent analysis of the performances, and have a stylist with a sense of current fashion trends (Note: No bangs allowed). Experience feigning romantic tension a plus.
Sincerely,
Simon Fuller
(Sigh) If only that were true.
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
American Idol
We have some neighbors who casually know Jason Castro.
He seems like a good kid.
But Top 10 good? I don't think so. If he didn't have those eyes of his, he would've been booted a long time ago. But he's garnering the coveted 12-30 female demographic because "He's so dreamy!".
He has yet to really show off his pipes, instead settling for ballads, which, in most Idol seasons, would be enough to get you gone early. But with the weak overall talent, especially from the ladies, he's been able to stay.
Let's just some it up with a question from my 3-year-old last night when we saw the recap:
"Mommy, what's her name?"
Aaaaaaaaaaaaannnnnnd...
I'm out.
He seems like a good kid.
But Top 10 good? I don't think so. If he didn't have those eyes of his, he would've been booted a long time ago. But he's garnering the coveted 12-30 female demographic because "He's so dreamy!".
He has yet to really show off his pipes, instead settling for ballads, which, in most Idol seasons, would be enough to get you gone early. But with the weak overall talent, especially from the ladies, he's been able to stay.
Let's just some it up with a question from my 3-year-old last night when we saw the recap:
"Mommy, what's her name?"
Aaaaaaaaaaaaannnnnnd...
I'm out.
Allergies
If you live in Austin long enough, you'll develop allergies, even if you haven't had them your whole life. We complain about the pollen around here, and rightfully so. Our daughters get nailed with it several times a year. Just recently, M was diagnosed with allergy-induced asthma, which gives her this horrible cough for weeks at a time. It usually hits during the winter, so we'll be ready for it later this year. When it hits S, she's a big snotty mess. C and I usually keep at least one tissue tucked in our pockets so we'll be able to wipe her face before she can get to it. She doesn't quite look like Pizza the Hut, but it can get gruesome.
A Forbes study on worst city for allergies lists Austin as only #54, down from #24 a year ago. It doesn't seem that much better. Of course it doesn't help that we have a yoooge (as The Donald would say) oak tree in our front yard.
Maybe I should just buy stock in Puffs.
A Forbes study on worst city for allergies lists Austin as only #54, down from #24 a year ago. It doesn't seem that much better. Of course it doesn't help that we have a yoooge (as The Donald would say) oak tree in our front yard.
Maybe I should just buy stock in Puffs.
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Camping
We had a good time, the sleeping battles notwithstanding. We're gonna need a bigger tent next time.
Two nights did prove nicer than just one since we didn't have to hurriedly pack our bags first thing in the morning.
We couldn't have asked for better weather, even though it was in the upper 30s both nights.
Saturday morning I did a terrible job trying to start a fire from the hot ashes. Not being a person that likes to make the same mistake again, I watched Alpha Pig and came back Sunday morning with a good fire going to warm us up.
You know you've been outside too much when you look at your feet and wonder if it's a flip-flop tan or you just got the first layer of dirt off. Thankfully it's the former.
And finally, whereas I usually space out my farmer tanning over several weeks, I just decided to get it done in two days. Nice golden neck and arms. Pale everywhere else.
Two nights did prove nicer than just one since we didn't have to hurriedly pack our bags first thing in the morning.
We couldn't have asked for better weather, even though it was in the upper 30s both nights.
Saturday morning I did a terrible job trying to start a fire from the hot ashes. Not being a person that likes to make the same mistake again, I watched Alpha Pig and came back Sunday morning with a good fire going to warm us up.
You know you've been outside too much when you look at your feet and wonder if it's a flip-flop tan or you just got the first layer of dirt off. Thankfully it's the former.
And finally, whereas I usually space out my farmer tanning over several weeks, I just decided to get it done in two days. Nice golden neck and arms. Pale everywhere else.
Wednesday, April 09, 2008
Links
In this article excerpt republished as the NFL draft approaches, The Hair talks about how Ryan Leaf could throw accurate darts on the run and how it "make[s] you hit the rewind button on the VCR." Bye-bye VCR, hello TiVo. What will it be in 5 years?
A story out of India that a couple's first child has a rare malformation called craniofacial duplication. Beware photos of the child, which may be unsettling for young children possibly sitting in your lap. The unfortunate part is that, in this deeply superstitious part of rural India, people believe Lali is a reincarnation of the goddess Durga and they're petitioning the government for funds to build a shrine to their deity of valor.
This article details the "21 on 21" drinking binge that apparently 30% of kids take part in on their 21st birthday. I remember my freshman year at school when my roommate pledged Acacia house. They took him out drinking on his birthday. He came home in the early-morning hours and woke up still drunk at three in the afternoon. I personally think allowing a child to have a limited amount of alcohol before the turn 21, and maybe sooner, would drive down the incidence of binge drinking and alcoholism in young "adults". I think it's the mystique of illegality that drives young people to dangerous habits, whether it be alcohol or drugs. Take away that mystique before they leave the nest and they're probably less likely to engage in such destructive behavior.
Finally, there's an article about a magazine creator who gives this purpose and drive for his lifestyle:
"I could not bear just being a publisher or a planter of trees or just being a mad hedonist. I'm immensely greedy and I want it all. I'm just trying to have a bloody good time filling in the gap between being born and dying."
That's why I'm scared for my daughters. That is the prevailing mindset for so many lost souls. That is the epitaph for millions of young people and will be for millions, even billions more, if they don't hear about Jesus the Christ. Not the Jesus that's castigated and viewed as just a prophet or a good teacher, but the true Son of God whose perfect life and resurrection from the dead alone gives us the hope of eternal life.
A story out of India that a couple's first child has a rare malformation called craniofacial duplication. Beware photos of the child, which may be unsettling for young children possibly sitting in your lap. The unfortunate part is that, in this deeply superstitious part of rural India, people believe Lali is a reincarnation of the goddess Durga and they're petitioning the government for funds to build a shrine to their deity of valor.
This article details the "21 on 21" drinking binge that apparently 30% of kids take part in on their 21st birthday. I remember my freshman year at school when my roommate pledged Acacia house. They took him out drinking on his birthday. He came home in the early-morning hours and woke up still drunk at three in the afternoon. I personally think allowing a child to have a limited amount of alcohol before the turn 21, and maybe sooner, would drive down the incidence of binge drinking and alcoholism in young "adults". I think it's the mystique of illegality that drives young people to dangerous habits, whether it be alcohol or drugs. Take away that mystique before they leave the nest and they're probably less likely to engage in such destructive behavior.
Finally, there's an article about a magazine creator who gives this purpose and drive for his lifestyle:
"I could not bear just being a publisher or a planter of trees or just being a mad hedonist. I'm immensely greedy and I want it all. I'm just trying to have a bloody good time filling in the gap between being born and dying."
That's why I'm scared for my daughters. That is the prevailing mindset for so many lost souls. That is the epitaph for millions of young people and will be for millions, even billions more, if they don't hear about Jesus the Christ. Not the Jesus that's castigated and viewed as just a prophet or a good teacher, but the true Son of God whose perfect life and resurrection from the dead alone gives us the hope of eternal life.
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