Be well and be safe!
Friday, December 31, 2010
My Top Five Blog Posts of the Year
(in terms of page views, you can think what you want about the content, I don't really care. Some posts were great, some were ill advised, and some were...well...phoning it in (somewhat literally) but I stand by them all))
1) The Great Beer Walk Beer and walking. Enough said.
2) Your Facebook Comment Could Not Be Submitted Oddly enough, this post generated the most international traffic.
3) The Album Project which had a surprising number of entries.
4) The Best Worst Food Day Ever because I love awful food, even when I love great food too...I just like food.
5) Just Fun which was Ryan and Dorayne's wedding that I was honored to be a part of.
Thank you to everyone who read this, and there are a good number of you, those who comment, and those who provide fodder for my musings, rants, and apologia, I love doing this and thank you for taking some time to care.
1) The Great Beer Walk Beer and walking. Enough said.
2) Your Facebook Comment Could Not Be Submitted Oddly enough, this post generated the most international traffic.
3) The Album Project which had a surprising number of entries.
4) The Best Worst Food Day Ever because I love awful food, even when I love great food too...I just like food.
5) Just Fun which was Ryan and Dorayne's wedding that I was honored to be a part of.
Thank you to everyone who read this, and there are a good number of you, those who comment, and those who provide fodder for my musings, rants, and apologia, I love doing this and thank you for taking some time to care.
Randomness to end the year
I was able to sleep, eventually, last night, but as I feared, I was plagued with odd dreams.
It seemed like on continuous dream but in it my uncle was back in the hospital because someone fed him a nice meal that happened to disagree with him, and as I was talking with my mother and brother, I ate a piece of chocolate with the metal wrapper still on it. I went looking for a place to spit this out, and I ended up in a conference room. After I had cleared my mouth of the refuse, I spied a large monitor on the wall and decided to watch porn on it. After a little bit of time, a group of people walked in and started talking about various people. It turned out that this was a search committee for a job, and I had interacted with the candidates. I recommended "Chantelle" and then had to leave.
As I said, it was odd.
Yesterday, as TEA and I were discussing Narnia, he brought up reincarnation as well as the possibility of preternatural existence. I was at a loss to point out the flaws in his argument and that disturbed me a little. If these are things he wants to believe in, that's okay, but I still have trouble understanding. It did prompt a conversation about karma and such and I was able to use my standard line regarding this. The universe doesn't care.
But...
It did get this song stuck in my head for the rest of the day.
Which isn't a bad song to end one year and start another.
I have made a couple of resolutions for the upcoming year and the one that I am going to share here is that in my home, I will be a dietary vegan, which isn't that hard to do and I will try to maintain a vegetarian lifestyle out of the home. I will make mistakes, and I won't be a zealot but...I just feel better when I am not consuming animal flesh and that is what is about.
And then there is this from someecards.com...
It seemed like on continuous dream but in it my uncle was back in the hospital because someone fed him a nice meal that happened to disagree with him, and as I was talking with my mother and brother, I ate a piece of chocolate with the metal wrapper still on it. I went looking for a place to spit this out, and I ended up in a conference room. After I had cleared my mouth of the refuse, I spied a large monitor on the wall and decided to watch porn on it. After a little bit of time, a group of people walked in and started talking about various people. It turned out that this was a search committee for a job, and I had interacted with the candidates. I recommended "Chantelle" and then had to leave.
As I said, it was odd.
Yesterday, as TEA and I were discussing Narnia, he brought up reincarnation as well as the possibility of preternatural existence. I was at a loss to point out the flaws in his argument and that disturbed me a little. If these are things he wants to believe in, that's okay, but I still have trouble understanding. It did prompt a conversation about karma and such and I was able to use my standard line regarding this. The universe doesn't care.
But...
It did get this song stuck in my head for the rest of the day.
Which isn't a bad song to end one year and start another.
I have made a couple of resolutions for the upcoming year and the one that I am going to share here is that in my home, I will be a dietary vegan, which isn't that hard to do and I will try to maintain a vegetarian lifestyle out of the home. I will make mistakes, and I won't be a zealot but...I just feel better when I am not consuming animal flesh and that is what is about.
And then there is this from someecards.com...
Thursday, December 30, 2010
A Reading Suggestion
As I have written about before, I really enjoy the writing of Charles Stross, even as he can be hit and miss sometimes.
Yesterday, I pick up Wireless.
Again, like most of Stross' work, it is hit or miss, but I have to recommend the novella that starts off the book.
Missle Gap (Full Story available) is a great story about the Cold War in the face of larger changes that relate to Fermi's Paradox.
If you are bored, and want a quick read that will make you think a little, the bagatelle is perfect.
Yesterday, I pick up Wireless.
Again, like most of Stross' work, it is hit or miss, but I have to recommend the novella that starts off the book.
Missle Gap (Full Story available) is a great story about the Cold War in the face of larger changes that relate to Fermi's Paradox.
If you are bored, and want a quick read that will make you think a little, the bagatelle is perfect.
A Tale of Two Films
I saw two films in the theater today.
The first one was at the suggestion of TEA and it was The Chronicles of Narnia: Voyage of the Dawn Treader. It wasn't bad, but the Christian allegory that the entire series is hit full force.
Lucy: Will you visit us in our world?
Aslan: Lucy, I am known by a different name in your world. You knew me briefly here so you could know me better in your world.
TEA and I had a conversation about this on the way home, and he asked what Aslan meant. I went on to ask him about the entire series so far. Aslan is killed, sacrificing himself for his people, yet returns briefly to guide his friends/flock, and then returns to his kingdom. When his supporters arrive at his kingdom, he informs them that only the noble of heart can enter and once one has entered, they can never return to the world.
I asked, "TEA, who does this sound like?"
"Superman."
"No, buddy, not a superhero."
"Is it Jesus?"
This evening, FAU, ECS and I saw True Grit. Before that though, we met up at a corporate chain bar/restaurant (that is known for their baby back baby back baby back baby back ribs) for some beer, conversation, and the end of the Pinstripe Bowl.
The film was great. It is easily one of the best films of the year (and FAU and I talked about how it was easy to say that because this was an awful year for films). It was a well done film, but it did not feel like a Coen Brothers film.
At one point during the film, I did look at my friends and stated, "We should get handguns."
It was (not surprisingly, given the directors and the source material) a darkly funny film and well worth the time spent in the theater.
The first one was at the suggestion of TEA and it was The Chronicles of Narnia: Voyage of the Dawn Treader. It wasn't bad, but the Christian allegory that the entire series is hit full force.
Lucy: Will you visit us in our world?
Aslan: Lucy, I am known by a different name in your world. You knew me briefly here so you could know me better in your world.
TEA and I had a conversation about this on the way home, and he asked what Aslan meant. I went on to ask him about the entire series so far. Aslan is killed, sacrificing himself for his people, yet returns briefly to guide his friends/flock, and then returns to his kingdom. When his supporters arrive at his kingdom, he informs them that only the noble of heart can enter and once one has entered, they can never return to the world.
I asked, "TEA, who does this sound like?"
"Superman."
"No, buddy, not a superhero."
"Is it Jesus?"
This evening, FAU, ECS and I saw True Grit. Before that though, we met up at a corporate chain bar/restaurant (that is known for their baby back baby back baby back baby back ribs) for some beer, conversation, and the end of the Pinstripe Bowl.
The film was great. It is easily one of the best films of the year (and FAU and I talked about how it was easy to say that because this was an awful year for films). It was a well done film, but it did not feel like a Coen Brothers film.
At one point during the film, I did look at my friends and stated, "We should get handguns."
It was (not surprisingly, given the directors and the source material) a darkly funny film and well worth the time spent in the theater.
Is it me or...
Is this vaguely terrifying?
The cold dead eyes staring at you while surrounded by a Tron-esque glow.
Creepy!
The cold dead eyes staring at you while surrounded by a Tron-esque glow.
Creepy!
Disappointed
Why this excited me? I don't know.
I know some people have issues with her, but I feel that she is the apex of a particular branch of evolution that has been going on for tens of years. She is who she is and there isn't anything wrong with that.
So, when going through Gawker to see what I missed, I almost wept when I read that it wasn't going to happen.
Apparently, according to the site Pop Eater, because MTv didn't ask nicely if they could allow Snooki to do this, Mayor Bloomberg has banned her from Times Square. (Or at least that is how the headline reads, the content of the story is different, but...go with the headline, statistically that's what America reads. (and by America, I mean the Fox News crowd)
So, I stand in solidarity with Snooki (like a modern Lech Walesa) and I will refuse to set foot in Times Square on NYE! Sorry, Ryan Seacreast, you won't have me to pander to.
Mike Doughty at The Linda
Just reminding you that Mike Doughty will be at The Linda tonight. You should go. I should go. Hopefully I can convince ECS and FAU to go.
Probably not.
Some of you do not remember Soul Coughing but you should attempt to "reremember" them and to give Doughty a chance.
And I had almost given up on it...
I slept like a normal human being. I went to bed at 11:00 and I slept through to seven. I dreamed pleasant dreams about pleasant things, and apart from being sore from Habitat, I feel great.
After the past two weeks or so, I had given up on normal sleep patterns. I even asked Teacher Dave if he thought I had turned into a old because of the bizarre patterns.
Maybe this is anomalous (as my dataset is far too small to draw any conclusions) but I amhopeful.
Wait...nothopeful...I am just well rested.
Yesterday was tough. Around 1:30, I started getting the chills that I always associate with being overtired. That feeling akin t your body asking you, "Hey men, what do you think you are doing to me?", but I was able to soldier on.
Welcome back sleep, you were missed.
After the past two weeks or so, I had given up on normal sleep patterns. I even asked Teacher Dave if he thought I had turned into a old because of the bizarre patterns.
Maybe this is anomalous (as my dataset is far too small to draw any conclusions) but I am
Wait...not
Yesterday was tough. Around 1:30, I started getting the chills that I always associate with being overtired. That feeling akin t your body asking you, "Hey men, what do you think you are doing to me?", but I was able to soldier on.
Welcome back sleep, you were missed.
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Follow-up on the products I knew nothing about...
A few days ago, I mentioned that there were products being advertised that I knew nothing about.
Now, I am putzing around the house (and I won't go back to sleep, I have learned my lesson after last week) and I saw the commercial for the Pos-T-Vac but this time, I paid attention to the music playing in the background (well, it was what made me concentrate on the commercial in the first place, as I had my focus elsewhere).
Guess what it was, folks?
What clichéd song do you think was being used for this product?
Yep, you guessed it...
"Whatever gets you through the night"
Now, when choosing this song, do you think the commercial director took into account the lyric "You don't need a sword to cut through flowers"?
Just askin' is all.
For the record, I used the Anthology version because I posted the album version a couple of weeks ago and I hate the repetition.
Now, I am putzing around the house (and I won't go back to sleep, I have learned my lesson after last week) and I saw the commercial for the Pos-T-Vac but this time, I paid attention to the music playing in the background (well, it was what made me concentrate on the commercial in the first place, as I had my focus elsewhere).
Guess what it was, folks?
What clichéd song do you think was being used for this product?
Yep, you guessed it...
"Whatever gets you through the night"
Now, when choosing this song, do you think the commercial director took into account the lyric "You don't need a sword to cut through flowers"?
Just askin' is all.
For the record, I used the Anthology version because I posted the album version a couple of weeks ago and I hate the repetition.
And I am wide awake
Another day, another watching to clock turn to 4 am from the old person side (and not the good alcoholic side).
At least I am not worried about the state of geek culture like Patton Oswalt (whom I love, I really do, but...this? Really, bro?) and how we are turning into a sated commercial culture. I am happily aware of the irony here, as Oswalt has a reoccurring role on Caprica which is never going to be completed. Yes, I know how it ends (that's the beauty of a prequel) but the journey is the enjoyable part. For all of Oswalt's complaints about the weak Otaku of new consumer culture, his sin in thinking that it is a cultural movement.
Maybe this is because we are of a similar generation. FAU and I were talking about how our children are growing up in an on-demand world and we were able to laugh about it.
Oswalt thinks that this is not a laughing matter though.
Maybe the Millennials are weak otaku or sated consumers, and maybe no good art will come out of their generation (I know that the music that they are making for the most part annoys the crap out of me.) but the following generation has an ability for cultural obsession and completeness that scares me with awesomeness.
TEA and his folks will be proud geeks, Patton. You have nothing to worry about.
At least I am not worried about the state of geek culture like Patton Oswalt (whom I love, I really do, but...this? Really, bro?) and how we are turning into a sated commercial culture. I am happily aware of the irony here, as Oswalt has a reoccurring role on Caprica which is never going to be completed. Yes, I know how it ends (that's the beauty of a prequel) but the journey is the enjoyable part. For all of Oswalt's complaints about the weak Otaku of new consumer culture, his sin in thinking that it is a cultural movement.
Maybe this is because we are of a similar generation. FAU and I were talking about how our children are growing up in an on-demand world and we were able to laugh about it.
Oswalt thinks that this is not a laughing matter though.
Maybe the Millennials are weak otaku or sated consumers, and maybe no good art will come out of their generation (I know that the music that they are making for the most part annoys the crap out of me.) but the following generation has an ability for cultural obsession and completeness that scares me with awesomeness.
TEA and his folks will be proud geeks, Patton. You have nothing to worry about.
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
Randomness on a Tuesday Night
- I wish that I had an extra $2000 so I could go away this weekend.
- I am not looking forward to doing Habitat tomorrow with the snow and the wind and the cold.
- In some of my plans, I am seeing three films in the next three days. Two of these films I do want to see, the other one TEA wants to see. I do wish there was an overlap.
- Another plan has me doing the Polar Plunge on Saturday, which I had been looking forward to, but...I don't know where it stands right now.
- The design for my new tattoo has been presented to a couple of friends. We all have some issues with it but no one can come up with alternatives to the fundamental issue. If you would like to see, let me know and I will send it your way. There are some caveats to this.
It just snuck into my head
Jason Isbell's Chicago Promenade
Thanks, DP. This reminds me of Christmas week from a couple of years ago, and some wonderful memories.
I lost a friend, it felt like five
A man who wouldn't compromise
I'll think of him on New Year's Day
And do the Chicago promenade
Speaking of sensitive indie rock, anyone want to see Mike Doughty at the Linda on Thursday?
I always wondered about that...
College Humor has provided an updated "Summer Nights" that portrays the relationships are they really were.
Think about it, "...did she put up a fight?"
Via Vulture
Think about it, "...did she put up a fight?"
Via Vulture
Kicks Rock
I would love it if someone missed me this "badly".
(Yes, I know it is completely awful and not a laughing matter, but...I laughed.)
Via someecards.com
(Yes, I know it is completely awful and not a laughing matter, but...I laughed.)
Via someecards.com
The Best Pop Songs of 2010 in Three Minutes
Some of it is in German. Is that correct? I, thankfully, wasn't subjected to this type of pop music all that often
Via Gawker.TV
Here is my chance
A friend of my just texted me, asking what I was doing tonight and where he could find women of well...questionable morality.
Now, I am always up for a night out (and thanks to the knowledge I have gleaned from "The Situation", I know how some women think) but I do not know where to go.
(Honestly, I have been awake for six hours already, I would rather stay in and be in bed at 9, forgoing the whole experiment)
So, where would you go on this search? Any suggestions?
Now, I am always up for a night out (and thanks to the knowledge I have gleaned from "The Situation", I know how some women think) but I do not know where to go.
(Honestly, I have been awake for six hours already, I would rather stay in and be in bed at 9, forgoing the whole experiment)
So, where would you go on this search? Any suggestions?
Monday, December 27, 2010
What did I do to deserve this?
Lookie at the e-mail I just got?
One of the "Free Gifts" is a $250 gift card to...where?
You guessed it!
The Olive Garden!
Now, I have eaten in an Olive Garden twice, both were "hey, were are going out to lunch" functions and my voice was shouted down. It's not that the food is bad. It isn't bad. It isn't awful (which is the word I wanted to use, but hyperbole seems...silly. We are talking about Olive Garden.) but it isn't great. It is prepackaged faux Italian food from Orlando and developed by the original food minds at General Mills.
I know people who love Olive Garden. I also know people who think that Pizza Hut/Domino's/Little Caesar's is pizza and the people of Albany, who self select for this poll, believe that Olive Garden is one of the best Italian restaurants in the region, so...maybe I am the one who is mistaken?
No, I am not.
One of the "Free Gifts" is a $250 gift card to...where?
You guessed it!
The Olive Garden!
Now, I have eaten in an Olive Garden twice, both were "hey, were are going out to lunch" functions and my voice was shouted down. It's not that the food is bad. It isn't bad. It isn't awful (which is the word I wanted to use, but hyperbole seems...silly. We are talking about Olive Garden.) but it isn't great. It is prepackaged faux Italian food from Orlando and developed by the original food minds at General Mills.
I know people who love Olive Garden. I also know people who think that Pizza Hut/Domino's/Little Caesar's is pizza and the people of Albany, who self select for this poll, believe that Olive Garden is one of the best Italian restaurants in the region, so...maybe I am the one who is mistaken?
No, I am not.
The Greatest Thing Ever
So, on Saturday, I wrote about/complained about some of the random things that my brother and sister got me for Christmas.
I would like to report on two of them.
First of all, I lost forty IQ points reading "Here's the Situation". I am not kidding. Yes, he has great abs, and I am jealous of them. However, he is so much more worse than the douchebag he portrays himself as on Jersey Shore and my favorite part of the book was telling me how to get a share house on one of those overcrowded mid-Atlantic beaches which is my version of...well...Hell. Most public beaches are. I like quiet and remote and, well...private. Yeah, and between telling me how I should vacation and how I should try to pick up the vacuous bimbos that he enjoys.
I told you that I was dumber because of this.
Which may be the reason that I am sharing this...
The Mangroomer is frakin' AWESOME! It is easy to use, works well, and more to the point, it left back clean and clear in under ten minutes and I was able to do it all by myself.
The Situation will be using this as he gets older. (Who am I kidding? He will go to the salon to have to done.)
I would like to report on two of them.
First of all, I lost forty IQ points reading "Here's the Situation". I am not kidding. Yes, he has great abs, and I am jealous of them. However, he is so much more worse than the douchebag he portrays himself as on Jersey Shore and my favorite part of the book was telling me how to get a share house on one of those overcrowded mid-Atlantic beaches which is my version of...well...Hell. Most public beaches are. I like quiet and remote and, well...private. Yeah, and between telling me how I should vacation and how I should try to pick up the vacuous bimbos that he enjoys.
I told you that I was dumber because of this.
Which may be the reason that I am sharing this...
The Mangroomer is frakin' AWESOME! It is easy to use, works well, and more to the point, it left back clean and clear in under ten minutes and I was able to do it all by myself.
The Situation will be using this as he gets older. (Who am I kidding? He will go to the salon to have to done.)
The Wiki Way
Grubba the hut was played by Gus Grubba who now lives with his wife and children in Raleigh, North Carolina. Gus isn't proud of his role as this sketchy character but enjoys collecting the royalties from playing a famous gastropod. Ironically, one of Gus Grubba's sons collects gastropods. He's really wierd.
This is courtesy of Wikipedia.
Now, I think it is kind of funny, but I e-mailed Mr. Grubba the other day because...well...wouldn't you want to know when crap was being said about you on the internet? (Especially when your thing is Fine Art Photography?)
Awesome shot of the snopocalypse of 2010 from Manhattan
Looking south on Park Ave from 56th street to Grand Central, 11am.
Image and commentary via the Notorious L.U.X.
Image and commentary via the Notorious L.U.X.
Like a John Waite Song
Things that I miss…
I was thinking about this on Christmas morning. As a lot of things have changed in my life in the past year, I realized that I missed some of the changes while I loved other changes.
I miss my dog.
I miss my big television.
I miss my old neighborhood and neighbors.
I miss my dad living in the northeast.
I miss having a Starbucks within walking distance.
I miss city sponsored WiFi being available almost everywhere.
I miss not having cable.
I miss my shower and showerhead.
I miss being able to walk everywhere.
I miss my kitchen and having friends who love my food.
I was thinking about this on Christmas morning. As a lot of things have changed in my life in the past year, I realized that I missed some of the changes while I loved other changes.
I miss my dog.
I miss my big television.
I miss my old neighborhood and neighbors.
I miss my dad living in the northeast.
I miss having a Starbucks within walking distance.
I miss city sponsored WiFi being available almost everywhere.
I miss not having cable.
I miss my shower and showerhead.
I miss being able to walk everywhere.
I miss my kitchen and having friends who love my food.
And the snowpocalypse is over
And the sun is out...the sky is blue and the landscape is white.
Awesome, no?
Awesome, no?
Where is the Heat Miser when you need him?
How are you doing this morning, world?
Are you surviving the snowpocalypse? (I will admit that I have been out to play in it twice already because…Hell, it is fun…it also made me miss Curly all the more) I love how it makes the surrounding countryside look though I do feel for my friends who are stuck on the east coast with their *gasp* families until the airports figure everything out.
One of the reasons I have been able to go how and play twice in the snow is because I have been up since 3:00. Not just was I up, but I was wide awake. That clear headed awake that you only expect from fighter pilots.
Why? I have no clue. Though, I was assuming it was a lot closer to 6:30 when I got dressed to enjoy the weather and was surprised when the clock in the living room flashed 3:21 at me.
I do hope that my sleep patterns are able to return to normal…like today.
(As a housekeeping thing, my iPhone is being really weird. Please do not expect an immediate response from me.)
Are you surviving the snowpocalypse? (I will admit that I have been out to play in it twice already because…Hell, it is fun…it also made me miss Curly all the more) I love how it makes the surrounding countryside look though I do feel for my friends who are stuck on the east coast with their *gasp* families until the airports figure everything out.
One of the reasons I have been able to go how and play twice in the snow is because I have been up since 3:00. Not just was I up, but I was wide awake. That clear headed awake that you only expect from fighter pilots.
Why? I have no clue. Though, I was assuming it was a lot closer to 6:30 when I got dressed to enjoy the weather and was surprised when the clock in the living room flashed 3:21 at me.
I do hope that my sleep patterns are able to return to normal…like today.
(As a housekeeping thing, my iPhone is being really weird. Please do not expect an immediate response from me.)
Sunday, December 26, 2010
Bald is beautiful
Yesterday, my nephew (who is eight and on occasion, more than a colossal PITA) tried to burn me by making fun of my bald head.
Someone slightly more mature tried something like that last month as well.
I like being bald. More to the point, I like the ritual behind depilatory behavior. I mean, when I have time, I like most aspects of shaving, and with my head, there is little difference. (Well, with the top of my head, I will not use this on my face.)
I wrote about this many years ago on my LiveJournal and to some people, it came across that I was fetishizing shaving, but, it isn't that.
I derive no sexual satisfaction from it, for the record.
I had breakfast on Friday morning with someone who has wonderfully curly hair but she also has to spend a lot of time maintaining it.
With my hair, I have nothing to worry about but wiping a wet rag and then shaking my head until it is dry.
The only thing that I would complain about (and that people with hair do not really understand) is that my head is really cold on the day it is cropped. How cold? It is so cold that I have been known to sleep with a hat on during the summer.
So, here is my suggestion for the New Year...
Love the bald people in your life and appreciate how great their (lack of) hair looks.
Someone slightly more mature tried something like that last month as well.
I like being bald. More to the point, I like the ritual behind depilatory behavior. I mean, when I have time, I like most aspects of shaving, and with my head, there is little difference. (Well, with the top of my head, I will not use this on my face.)
I wrote about this many years ago on my LiveJournal and to some people, it came across that I was fetishizing shaving, but, it isn't that.
I derive no sexual satisfaction from it, for the record.
I had breakfast on Friday morning with someone who has wonderfully curly hair but she also has to spend a lot of time maintaining it.
With my hair, I have nothing to worry about but wiping a wet rag and then shaking my head until it is dry.
The only thing that I would complain about (and that people with hair do not really understand) is that my head is really cold on the day it is cropped. How cold? It is so cold that I have been known to sleep with a hat on during the summer.
So, here is my suggestion for the New Year...
Love the bald people in your life and appreciate how great their (lack of) hair looks.
Products I Never Knew About
I am watching a downmarket cable channel because they are running a Buffy the Vampire Slayer marathon and face it, I love Buffy, but there are a lot of bad commercials, including the Jason Alexander ASPCA commercial (which is bad for completely different reasons) and I have learned about a lot of new and interesting products.
1) Pajama Jeans
2) Stem Cell Skin Cream
3) The Love Calculator from Jamster
and my favorite...
4) Pos-T-Vac
Honorable Mention goes to Stelara because one of the warnings is "MAY INCREASE YOUR RISK OF CANCER" because clearer skin is worth cancer.
P.T. Barnum was correct.
1) Pajama Jeans
2) Stem Cell Skin Cream
3) The Love Calculator from Jamster
and my favorite...
4) Pos-T-Vac
Honorable Mention goes to Stelara because one of the warnings is "MAY INCREASE YOUR RISK OF CANCER" because clearer skin is worth cancer.
P.T. Barnum was correct.
Saturday, December 25, 2010
This is why I buy myself things...
My brother and sister do not think of it this way though.
Because I am difficult to buy for (I am picky and I have what I want) they choose gift giving holidays as an excuse to get me things that are...well...useful (sometimes) but often ridiculous.
So, let me give you an idea of what I received from my loving siblings:
From my dear brother, I received Sharper Images' ManGroomer which is an electric backhair shaver. It extends to reach the hard to reach places. While I will use it, opening it up was...odd. (Okay, I will admit that I am excited to try it.)
From my sister, I received two items of...interest.
The first is pictured above. Yep, I now own "The Situation"'s book, Here's the Situation, and yes, I will probably read it. Though I am curious about what I need to know about avoiding grenades.
The final item of odd, almost WTF gifts ends up being something that I will wear with pride, sweet creme filled pride.
This t-shirt which fits my colour palatte well and expresses my love for good food.
Yes, those of you who come out to the Polar Plunge will see it.
And you know, I love them all, and I love my brother and sister for thinking of me.
In other news, I was like a five year old and awoke at 2:30 this morning. That I couldn't fall back asleep was my own fault. So...I watched the Star Trek:TNG marathon on ScFy and then the Buffy marathon on Chiller until it was time to start my day. Awesome, no? Embracing my essential dorkiness on Christmas morning is proof of my commitment to averageness.
Friday, December 24, 2010
I bring you great comforts of tidings and joy.
"That's what Christmas is all about, Charlie Brown"
I don't go for the overtly Christian things, but...this is what tomorrow is about.
I don't go for the overtly Christian things, but...this is what tomorrow is about.
Twas the Night Before Christmas
I am recording this mostly for TEA, but...I felt the need to share.
Not that anyone will care but...
Merry Christmas to those who celebrate and Happy Saturday to those who don't.
Not that anyone will care but...
Merry Christmas to those who celebrate and Happy Saturday to those who don't.
Good morning, world!
So a combination of beer and some vicious and aggressive intestinal fauna left me down for the count and barely able to move from bed yesterday.
So...
While I was going to spend today finish my wrapping, I have to spend it shopping.
But first, breakfast...as everything that I ate yesterday left me in new and interesting ways.
At least I feel comfortable taking the bus and not living in fear of an embarrassing incident.
I wish everyone a peaceful weekend and hopefully your time will be spent with family or with movies and Chinese food.
So...
While I was going to spend today finish my wrapping, I have to spend it shopping.
But first, breakfast...as everything that I ate yesterday left me in new and interesting ways.
At least I feel comfortable taking the bus and not living in fear of an embarrassing incident.
I wish everyone a peaceful weekend and hopefully your time will be spent with family or with movies and Chinese food.
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
'Tis the Season
Happy Holidays!
May your beverage of choice be tasty, may your friendships be warm, & may your life be good.
May your beverage of choice be tasty, may your friendships be warm, & may your life be good.
There has to be a word for this...
Ever know that you have to be someplace early and then you wake up two hours before you have to wake?
Do you then stay up and putz around; reading, responding to e-mails, catching up on television?
Do you find yourself wanting to sleep for fifteen minutes, knowing that you still have time?
Do you then ignore the alarms you have set and end up running 45 minutes late?
Will someone create a neologism to reflect what happens to me at least once a month?
(Yes, I know I should just stop doing it, but...I am able to get to wear I need to go and made everything on time this morning...one of these days though.)
Do you then stay up and putz around; reading, responding to e-mails, catching up on television?
Do you find yourself wanting to sleep for fifteen minutes, knowing that you still have time?
Do you then ignore the alarms you have set and end up running 45 minutes late?
Will someone create a neologism to reflect what happens to me at least once a month?
(Yes, I know I should just stop doing it, but...I am able to get to wear I need to go and made everything on time this morning...one of these days though.)
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Into the blue...
(It doesn't hurt when they are attractive as well as talented.)
With that being said, here is Sarah Jackson-Holman's Into the Blue.
My Little Music Geek Heart Went Aflutter!
I wish I had seen this a couple of days early, so that I could have purchased one for TEA.
You can buy it here.
If you have no clue what I am talking about, please go here and then watch this.
One can only hope
Historical Log 28:
The Phoenix Destroys Albany, NY
Image via Marvel
Made aware of this via Ryan and AoA.
One can only hope about the destruction that is wrought. I am looking forward to the Alfred E. Smith Building used as a weapon to crush the LoB.
In the event of mutant activity, where would you seek shelter in Albany?
The Phoenix Destroys Albany, NY
Made aware of this via Ryan and AoA.
One can only hope about the destruction that is wrought. I am looking forward to the Alfred E. Smith Building used as a weapon to crush the LoB.
In the event of mutant activity, where would you seek shelter in Albany?
Monday, December 20, 2010
Nobody does it like Sandra Lee
First there was the Kwanzaa Cake.
And we have the creation of the cake from the creator (who was not Sandra Lee) from the Huffington Post (H/T Lemon) and we also have the time last year where she stalked Tony Bourdain as if she were a lion and he a musk ox. (You can see video of Tony talking about this here.)
And of all the scary things that she does, not that she is poised to be the First Girlfriend of New York State, she becomes all the more terrifying.
See this piece from today's USA Today where she describes her home and her ability to be "creative" outside of the office. (Link via Capitol Tonight)
If you remember, there was a bit of a flap about her lasagna recipe and now...an all white tree? Is this a subtle dig at Governor Patterson?
No, of course it isn't. Nothing Ms. Lee does is subtle.
I can't wait to see what the Inaugural menu looks like.
And we have the creation of the cake from the creator (who was not Sandra Lee) from the Huffington Post (H/T Lemon) and we also have the time last year where she stalked Tony Bourdain as if she were a lion and he a musk ox. (You can see video of Tony talking about this here.)
And of all the scary things that she does, not that she is poised to be the First Girlfriend of New York State, she becomes all the more terrifying.
See this piece from today's USA Today where she describes her home and her ability to be "creative" outside of the office. (Link via Capitol Tonight)
If you remember, there was a bit of a flap about her lasagna recipe and now...an all white tree? Is this a subtle dig at Governor Patterson?
No, of course it isn't. Nothing Ms. Lee does is subtle.
I can't wait to see what the Inaugural menu looks like.
DADT Hypocrites
Or...Senators who were for DADT before they were against it.
John Kerry (D-MA)
Herb Kohl (D-WI)
Daniel Akaka (D-HI)
Kent Conrad (D-ND)
Christ Dodd (D-CT)
Dianne Feinstein (D-CA)
Tom Harkin (D-IA)
Lisa Murkowski (R-AK)
Daniel Inouye (D-HI)
Jay Rockefeller (D-WV)
Frank Lautenberg (D-NJ)
Carl Levin (D-MI)
Patty Murray (D-WA)
Mark Pryor (D-AR)
Harry Reid (D-NV)
Barbara Mikulski (D-MD)
Patrick Leahy (D-VT)
Joe Lieberman (IND-CT)
In other news, US Servicemembers still can't tell.
John Kerry (D-MA)
Herb Kohl (D-WI)
Daniel Akaka (D-HI)
Kent Conrad (D-ND)
Christ Dodd (D-CT)
Dianne Feinstein (D-CA)
Tom Harkin (D-IA)
Lisa Murkowski (R-AK)
Daniel Inouye (D-HI)
Jay Rockefeller (D-WV)
Frank Lautenberg (D-NJ)
Carl Levin (D-MI)
Patty Murray (D-WA)
Mark Pryor (D-AR)
Harry Reid (D-NV)
Barbara Mikulski (D-MD)
Patrick Leahy (D-VT)
Joe Lieberman (IND-CT)
In other news, US Servicemembers still can't tell.
One Question, One Answer, Eighty Minutes
That is the plot, in short of the film Exam, a psychological thriller from the UK abut eight candidates for a job with a company.
Why am I being vague about the question, answer, job and company?
Well, that's the point. You know little more, and often less, than the characters (who have no names just character details given to them by fellow candidate "White")who are sitting for this exam.
The film is also done in real time, so you can feel the dread as the clock ticks down and the candidates get more and more desperate.
To be honest, I had never heard of this film until yesterday, when I saw it mentioned in a list on io9.com and I was intrigued. Luckily, the local shopping super store had it and I was able to check it out.
Now, I normally link to the Wikipedia entry for most films, but in this case it is far too spoiler-riffic.
Anyway, as the holidays are upon us, and that often means interesting familial interactions, may I suggest this film as a ninety minute break from that cousin who has a really interesting business opportunity? It is worth it.
Sunday, December 19, 2010
Saturday, December 18, 2010
I want one
I want both.
Both Washington and Obama.
It is the pottery that grows and for $19.97!
God Bless America!
Both Washington and Obama.
It is the pottery that grows and for $19.97!
God Bless America!
Thursday, December 16, 2010
Baker Street
You used to think that it was so easy
You used to say that it was so easy
But you're tryin'
You're tryin' now
Another year and then you'll be happy
Just one more year and then you'll be happy
But you're cryin'
You're cryin' now
Thank You
No, seriously, Washington Post!
Your company has great content but a wonderfully crappy delivery system.
I love Slate, and I paid for the app for my iPhone, but it is an awful app, though it is better than your mobile site, which is even worse.
The design on Slate.com is not user friendly at all and it bothers me to have to go there to get the content.
But...
washingtonpost.com is the worst.
I feel bad for those of you who have to use that site as your go-to news source.
I am done.
You have crashed my browser for the last time.
Your company has great content but a wonderfully crappy delivery system.
I love Slate, and I paid for the app for my iPhone, but it is an awful app, though it is better than your mobile site, which is even worse.
The design on Slate.com is not user friendly at all and it bothers me to have to go there to get the content.
But...
washingtonpost.com is the worst.
I feel bad for those of you who have to use that site as your go-to news source.
I am done.
You have crashed my browser for the last time.
Talk about the passion
I used to love R.E.M.. Well, everyone loved R.E.M. back in the day. Think back to the late '80s and early '90s (those of you who can, I know some of you were like seven or something when Green came out) and there was always appropriate song by R.E.M. for that mix to make you look all the better.
After Up, I guess I gave up (no pun intended)on them. It wasn't that I didn't still love them, but like The Smiths, the represented a time in my life that had passed.
Well, because of a couple of different things, I have started listening to the Smiths again (Thank you, David Cameron!) and conversations with friends (like Teacher Dave) have gotten me thinking about R.E.M. again.
But...as you well know, thinking is not doing, and I haven't added them to my iPhone yet...even after getting the backup drive with my music out...
And then, Dave Bry introduced me to this song and I listened to it once, twice, and three times.
I really like this song, and...it reminds me of classic R.E.M. and it fills me with happy memories, of great music and sunny days and being young.
And I have a smile on my face...
Via The Awl.
After Up, I guess I gave up (no pun intended)on them. It wasn't that I didn't still love them, but like The Smiths, the represented a time in my life that had passed.
Well, because of a couple of different things, I have started listening to the Smiths again (Thank you, David Cameron!) and conversations with friends (like Teacher Dave) have gotten me thinking about R.E.M. again.
But...as you well know, thinking is not doing, and I haven't added them to my iPhone yet...even after getting the backup drive with my music out...
And then, Dave Bry introduced me to this song and I listened to it once, twice, and three times.
I really like this song, and...it reminds me of classic R.E.M. and it fills me with happy memories, of great music and sunny days and being young.
And I have a smile on my face...
Via The Awl.
The Bad for you breakfast
I feel a compelling need to make a wonderfully bad for you breakfast.
I really want scrapple for this breakfast. (By the way, if anyone knows where I can get scrapple in the Albany area, I would appreciate it.)
To accompany the scrapple, I want eggs cups. I love eggs cups. If you don't know what I am talking about, it is really simple.
Take a cupcake pan, butter liberally, and then take a piece of thinly sliced ham (two may be necessary) and use that as the cupcake wrapper in the pan. Crack one egg (brown, hopefully pastured and farm fresh) into the ham. Add salt, pepper, and crumbled cheddar and bake at 325 for 12 to 15 minutes. Let cool in the pan and then serve.
With...
I want heavily butter challah toast to go with this.
In addition, completing the awesome amount of swine that is going into this, a complete rasher of baked bacon.
Oh, and hash browns...(I make mine very simply, use your favorite recipe)
And to drink...oh, what to drink?
I am thinking Bloody Mary and French Press Shade Grown French Roasted coffee.
So...
This meal may kill me, but...it sounds like a good idea, doesn't it?
Do any of you have any ideas for your own bad for you food breakfast?
I really want scrapple for this breakfast. (By the way, if anyone knows where I can get scrapple in the Albany area, I would appreciate it.)
To accompany the scrapple, I want eggs cups. I love eggs cups. If you don't know what I am talking about, it is really simple.
Take a cupcake pan, butter liberally, and then take a piece of thinly sliced ham (two may be necessary) and use that as the cupcake wrapper in the pan. Crack one egg (brown, hopefully pastured and farm fresh) into the ham. Add salt, pepper, and crumbled cheddar and bake at 325 for 12 to 15 minutes. Let cool in the pan and then serve.
With...
I want heavily butter challah toast to go with this.
In addition, completing the awesome amount of swine that is going into this, a complete rasher of baked bacon.
Oh, and hash browns...(I make mine very simply, use your favorite recipe)
And to drink...oh, what to drink?
I am thinking Bloody Mary and French Press Shade Grown French Roasted coffee.
So...
This meal may kill me, but...it sounds like a good idea, doesn't it?
Do any of you have any ideas for your own bad for you food breakfast?
Rachel was on Letterman last night
As is well documented, I love her.
Yes, I still like him (even though the man is creepy).
Together, it is like peas and carrots.
The big reveal here: Rachel liked Glenn Beck before he became Fox News Channel's resident weeper.
And something I just thought of: If the new Speaker of the House went on Glenn Beck, which one of them would cry first?
(For the record, I don't care that either of them cry. I cry at movies (Toy Story 3 for instance), when holding my son, when thinking about my life and choices at three in the morning. If they feel the need to emote about what bothers them, I understand. I just don't understand that when they cry about the children and the future, the don't realize that suggesting cuts to education or denying them health care is causing harm.)
Duck & Cover Redux
Or...Fallout Too (yeah, that's not a great geek joke but it was the first thing I thought of. For those of you who have no clue what I am talking about with this aside, go here.)
For the last seven years of the Bush Administration, every couple of months, we were told that we need to be on the watch for terrorists because a credible threat had been made (and some of these threats were probably credible and it is a credit to our security apparatus that these threats were exposed and nipped in the bud but some of them were pandering in order to shift focus from other domestic issues) and we should be afraid. Very afraid.
But now...
As the Obama administration is in the doldrums, beware of THE NUCLEAR HOLOCAUST!
My parents have told me stories of the duck and cover drills that they engaged in when they were school children and the fear that it inspired in them. My mother went to parochial school and was told that she would only have the time to say "Thank you, Jesus" because a full prayer was far too long to complete.
Now...in addition to the continuing economic collapse, the threat of the nuclear end times is being presented as a VERY POSSIBLE REALITY.
From the New York Times:
Then there is this from the aforementioned guide:
There will be no significant Federal response at the scene for 24 hours and the
full extent of Federal assets will not be available for several days. Emergency
response is principally a local function. Federal assistance will be mobilized as
rapidly as possible; however, for purposes of this document, no significant Federal
response is assumed for 24 – 72 hours.
So, not only should we be terrified by the threat of nuclear attack (which many reasoned people insist will not happen) but we should understand that the Federal Government will not help us, which may be a lesson learned from the mistakes of "Rainstorm Katrina".
So, let me make this suggestion to you for your holiday season. As the drinks and canapés are being passed at your holiday parties, turn to the person to the left of you and ask, "When the inevitable nuclear attack happens, where are you going to go?" and then follow-up with "In a post nuclear attack world, would you prefer to be a member of a cannibalistic rape gang or a mindless zombie of the wasteland?"
I am sure that it will make you the life of the party, and that is exactly what Obama wants for you.
Via NYT
For the last seven years of the Bush Administration, every couple of months, we were told that we need to be on the watch for terrorists because a credible threat had been made (and some of these threats were probably credible and it is a credit to our security apparatus that these threats were exposed and nipped in the bud but some of them were pandering in order to shift focus from other domestic issues) and we should be afraid. Very afraid.
But now...
As the Obama administration is in the doldrums, beware of THE NUCLEAR HOLOCAUST!
My parents have told me stories of the duck and cover drills that they engaged in when they were school children and the fear that it inspired in them. My mother went to parochial school and was told that she would only have the time to say "Thank you, Jesus" because a full prayer was far too long to complete.
Now...in addition to the continuing economic collapse, the threat of the nuclear end times is being presented as a VERY POSSIBLE REALITY.
From the New York Times:
In June, the administration released to emergency officials around the nation an unclassified planning guide(PDF) 130 pages long on how to respond to a nuclear attack. It stressed citizen education, before any attack.
Without that knowledge, the guide added, “people will be more likely to follow the natural instinct to run from danger, potentially exposing themselves to fatal doses of radiation.”
Specialists outside of Washington are divided on the initiative. One group says the administration is overreacting to an atomic threat that is all but nonexistent.
Then there is this from the aforementioned guide:
There will be no significant Federal response at the scene for 24 hours and the
full extent of Federal assets will not be available for several days. Emergency
response is principally a local function. Federal assistance will be mobilized as
rapidly as possible; however, for purposes of this document, no significant Federal
response is assumed for 24 – 72 hours.
So, not only should we be terrified by the threat of nuclear attack (which many reasoned people insist will not happen) but we should understand that the Federal Government will not help us, which may be a lesson learned from the mistakes of "Rainstorm Katrina".
So, let me make this suggestion to you for your holiday season. As the drinks and canapés are being passed at your holiday parties, turn to the person to the left of you and ask, "When the inevitable nuclear attack happens, where are you going to go?" and then follow-up with "In a post nuclear attack world, would you prefer to be a member of a cannibalistic rape gang or a mindless zombie of the wasteland?"
I am sure that it will make you the life of the party, and that is exactly what Obama wants for you.
Via NYT
Sometimes I hate technology
So, I timeshifted Hell's Kitchen so my brother and I could watch Tron. (Yeah, we did. I am looking forward to seeing Legacy next week.)
Anyway, I wanted to see the list that Wikipedia had of the eliminations, and I had gone to some pains to avoid seeing who won...
Yeah, the Wikipedia entry had already been updated.
*sigh*
My own damn fault.
I know it isn't a big deal, but still.
I have twenty minutes left in the show, and then I am going to enjoy Top Chef All Stars from tonight, so...please don't spoil that. (and as soon as I went looking for that link, I had to quickly avoid the recaps that have already popped up.)
Anyway, I wanted to see the list that Wikipedia had of the eliminations, and I had gone to some pains to avoid seeing who won...
Yeah, the Wikipedia entry had already been updated.
*sigh*
My own damn fault.
I know it isn't a big deal, but still.
I have twenty minutes left in the show, and then I am going to enjoy Top Chef All Stars from tonight, so...please don't spoil that. (and as soon as I went looking for that link, I had to quickly avoid the recaps that have already popped up.)
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
Christmas Future?
This Christmas, preserve that blessing by giving them the same gift your parents and grandparents gave you: the gift of Christmas future. By making a contribution to the Republican National Committee, you'll be providing the resources that we need to continue to protect the America you know and love. You'll also be ensuring that your children and grandchildren will be able to give future generations the same Christmas you've given them.
Seriously?
If you fail to give to the GOP this Holiday Season, Christmas will disappear. No, really. Two thousand years* of history and two hundred years of tradition will disappear if YOU (yes, you reading this!) do not donate to the Party of No!
If the Republicans and Michael Steele fail to raise money to fight the secular threat, you and all your progeny will be forced into re-education camps where the Holiday Season becomes about things that are communist plots like education, health care, a safety net for those most at risk, and equality and civil rights.
If you think back to the Nativity Story, Jesus came to redeem the world.
Redeeming the world, according to the GOP, means a lot apparently, but the messages of Jesus; blessed are the poor, loving thy neighbor, and caring for one another; beggar, sinner, tax collector and yes, Centurion, are not among them.
Maybe that is my view as a secularist "weirdo", but...the GOP who are on the front lines against the "War on Christmas" fail to recognize that their particular brand of Christianity has little to nothing to do with the teachings of their Savior.
Awesome, no?
If you want to make a donation this year, especially if you want to make a donation to a Christianist organization, may I make the suggestion that you donate to Habitat for Humanity, because they are actually trying to live the life of a man who was a carpenter and became some people's Savior?
Yeah, your hypocrisy pisses me off. Check it out for yourself at The Gift of Christmas Future.
Via Gawker & Politico
*As Jon Stewart said the other night, Christianity survived the Roman Empire...
The Senate is broken
Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy
Rachel talks about the weather on the East Coast and then about the broken United States Senate.
The analogy works, people.
Not that long ago, someone wrote about me (in a screed) and commented on how I was influenced by pundits, always changing my opinions based on what some talking head says.
I love Rachel, and I respect her opinion, and that I agree with ninety percent of what she says makes her easy to watch, but...I have never, and will never, take all my talking points for anyone but myself and my own beliefs...which are complex and sometimes run counter to other beliefs that I hold deep.
Anyway, I do agree with Rachel that the Senate is broken but (and I am waiting FAU) think that the Filibuster is still a valuable tool for someone who may be the lone voice of reason.
Oh, and because I am, at my heart, a fascist who believes that we require a benevolent dictatorship for a couple of years and that my "Sunshine Brigade" will be tasked with "reeducating" reactionary forces.
And this the song that I woke up to in my head
Maybe it was because the dreams (no, I am not going to explain) or maybe it was because I kept waking up and stupidly checking my e-mails. Apart from the normal ones, I got an e-mail from a friend who needed a friend and I was too concerned with my own sleep to respond properly.
I apologize.
At some point, I have to run out and finish my holiday shopping but when weather.com says that the temperature feels like 2 degrees I have to reconsider the efficacy of doing that.
For the record, the new period of time for NCMA is four days.
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Chilling
I had never seen Capturing the Friedmans and when it was mentioned on Slate's Culture Gabfest it was brought back to my attention. For some reason, apart from the director having a new film coming out (or maybe it is already out) this week in wide release.
So, when it was on the Sundance Channel today, I felt it necessary to watch it.
Now, I understand the hysteria of the era, but...I hate myself for hating everyone involved in this case.
No one, from Investigators, to Family Members, to the Documentarians, comes across as normal, stable, or having their own self interest or the interest of their family and their community at heart.
There are evil people everywhere (and pedophiles are the worst, well sex offenders in general, but you understand what I mean) but this...upsets me to my core.
So, when it was on the Sundance Channel today, I felt it necessary to watch it.
Now, I understand the hysteria of the era, but...I hate myself for hating everyone involved in this case.
No one, from Investigators, to Family Members, to the Documentarians, comes across as normal, stable, or having their own self interest or the interest of their family and their community at heart.
There are evil people everywhere (and pedophiles are the worst, well sex offenders in general, but you understand what I mean) but this...upsets me to my core.
The Nott in the Snow
I love this building in the winter. The weather today made me think back to my sophomore year and a very specific memory.
Thank you Union, and the alumni for the memories, especially in the winter.
Via ommelebommelestein's Flikr
While looking for an image
I am looking for an image of the Nott Memorial in a snow storm, but while I was looking for it, I came across this.
History of Streaking on Educational Institutions
Way to go Union!
If anyone knows where I can find the Nott in the snow?
History of Streaking on Educational Institutions
Way to go Union!
If anyone knows where I can find the Nott in the snow?
Thank You, SomeECards.com
These two popped up yesterday and they made me giggle.
Do you have a favorite card from someecards? It can be for anything. I just love the snark and disregard for normal discourse.
Of two minds
So...Cliff Lee is going back to Philadelphia. (and not this Cliff Lee ((Sorry, Anya, had to throw the link up))
I am of two minds about this.
The on one side, I am sad. He signed with the Phillies. Come On! People living in Philadelphia know what they signed up for and winning sports franchises is not one of the things they get. In addition, as a proud Mets fan, that is going to be an even tougher team to compete against. As my friend Mike IM'd me this morning, "Well, I guess I have no reason to watch the Mets next season." Yes, there is that feeling of dread in Queens today.
But...on the other side...
I have had the same conversation with both FAU and Teacher Dave. It consists of them talking about how sweet the mid-to-late 1990s was to be a Yankee fan because the team had been so back for so long, and they had grown up with awful teams. They both have young children, and it looks like the inevitable collapse of the Yankees is going to happen. For me, this is a good thing. If not for anything but exposing the fake Yankee fans for who they are. It takes a lot to root for a bad team (let me tell you about that) and I know a number of people who neither love the game nor the team, they just like the idea of the Yankees winning and that makes it okay.
So, Cliff Lee is in Philly. Both the Mets and the Yankees got screwed on this one, but...I am willing to live with it so long as it exposes the "typical"* Yankee fan for the ignorant blowhard that they are.
(* And by typical, I mean nothing of the sort. Most of the Yankee fans I know are smart well reasoned folks who love the game and understand the game. By calling the atypical fan the typical fan I am engaging in word play.)
I am of two minds about this.
The on one side, I am sad. He signed with the Phillies. Come On! People living in Philadelphia know what they signed up for and winning sports franchises is not one of the things they get. In addition, as a proud Mets fan, that is going to be an even tougher team to compete against. As my friend Mike IM'd me this morning, "Well, I guess I have no reason to watch the Mets next season." Yes, there is that feeling of dread in Queens today.
But...on the other side...
I have had the same conversation with both FAU and Teacher Dave. It consists of them talking about how sweet the mid-to-late 1990s was to be a Yankee fan because the team had been so back for so long, and they had grown up with awful teams. They both have young children, and it looks like the inevitable collapse of the Yankees is going to happen. For me, this is a good thing. If not for anything but exposing the fake Yankee fans for who they are. It takes a lot to root for a bad team (let me tell you about that) and I know a number of people who neither love the game nor the team, they just like the idea of the Yankees winning and that makes it okay.
So, Cliff Lee is in Philly. Both the Mets and the Yankees got screwed on this one, but...I am willing to live with it so long as it exposes the "typical"* Yankee fan for the ignorant blowhard that they are.
(* And by typical, I mean nothing of the sort. Most of the Yankee fans I know are smart well reasoned folks who love the game and understand the game. By calling the atypical fan the typical fan I am engaging in word play.)
Monday, December 13, 2010
Live blogging the Giants game
7:29 Eli throws his first interception of the night. I hate this man. I mean, I love him, but I hate him.
The only thing that would make this better is if Favre had actually started. Would we be looking at a 10 interception game?
7:32 Really quiet crowd. Or is it that they are still really cold from waiting out in the cold weather in Detroit all day?
7:35 Deadspin is reporting that BrettFavre.com is already selling stuff commemorating the "Streak". (BTW, the site may be NSFW and there may be shots of Little Brett)
7:36 Even though it was incomplete, Tavaris Jackson showed more touch with that dropped touchdown pass that Favre has thrown all year.
7:37 Min 3 - NYG 0
7:38 I like this Dodge Challenger commercial. Not that I think it is a great car, but...great commercial.
7:41 Would anyone else like to see a fist fight between Bill Simmons and Charlie Pierce? Oh...Eli has the ball again.
7:43 Eli completes a pass! Awesome! Why couldn't the Giants get Cooper? He seems like the least offensive Manning.
7:44 And Eli throws into coverage. Time to punt. 24 minutes in and I am already bored.
7:48 The best defense the Giants has put together is two Vikings colliding. Awesome. Peterson and Jackson do look like they are in pain. Wait...does this mean that Brett may have to come in? NOOOOOOO!
7:51 Joe Webb? Like the Dragnet guy? Oh. That's Jack Webb. And the Vikings punt.
7:53 Kevin Pollock hosting a game show is either really cool or...I worry about his career.
7:54 Here comes Eli from the 20. First play? Run. Don't let Eli pass unless you have to. Bradshaw for 18 yards.
7:55 Eli completes a pass. Every time he attempts a pass, my heart ends up in my throat.
7:56 Another pass completed.
And that's the first quarter.
7:59 Start of the second.
Just got an alert that Richard Holbrooke has passed away.
8:00 And Eli has been picked off again. My heart, my throat. The pain. It was third and nine, he had to pass. Of course when he has to pass, he gets picked. I am wondering what has happened this season where he forces these throws.
8:03 The replay shows that it was a very good defensive play.
8:04 Jackson hasn't started a game in two seasons but he has confidence and poise in the pocket. He just threw a nice third down completion that did what it needed to do.
8:06 Good defense by the Giants, denying a third down pass. Punt leaves the Giants on their own 12.
8:09 Eli has a QB Rating of 10 so far tonight. Which is three points higher than Vince Young's Wonderlic score.
8:10 And Jacobs breaks it for 73 yards. Giving the Giants something to root for and a red zone opportunity.
8:11 Bradshaw runs for 12 or so and give the Giants first and goal.
8:12 Bradshaw runs twice in a row. On the goal line, or three inches out. Third and goal.
8:13 Coughlin is challenging the spot. Great...another commercial break.
8:16 And the Ruling on the Field Stands. Third and Goal.
8:17 Jacobs scores but yellow flags all over. Offsides Vikings. Declined. The extra point is good (with a high snap).
Min 3 NYG 7
8:20 Giants kick to the Vikings, who have a 33 yard return.
8:21 Jackson passes on first down. Complete for 6 yards. Eli didn't throw a pass on the Giants last drive. The Giants scored. You know, maybe let the Giants run the ball until Eli has to throw.
8:22 Jackson is sacked on Third and Seven for a loss of ten. I am going to assume that a punt and a commercial break is coming shortly.
8:24 But the Giants committed a penalty and the Giants only get a seven yard return on the punt return but...no commercial break! First and 10 from the 18.
8:25 Bradshaw runs on First. Loss of one. Maybe Eli is going to have to throw.
8:26 The crowd in Detroit is doing the Wave and the Giants have jumped offsides. Second and 16 and the Giants throw a screen to Bradshaw that goes NO WHERE. Eli is in the shotgun and throws a three yard pass on the next play.
8:28 Giants punting from their own 15. Vikings get the ball around their own 45 but there is a penalty and an injury.
8:29 No penalty. Sintim helped off the field by the training staff.
8:30 Back to back runs by Peterson. A holding penalty makes in Second and 15.
8:33 Third and 9. Two Minute Warning.
8:36 Bad snap. Gets away from Jackson. He just falls on the ball and the Giants use one of their timeouts. Vikings punting.
8:37 Fair catch by the Giants. First and 10 from the 29.
8:38 Eli passes for two yards on First. Flag on the play. Personal Foul (Helmet to Helmet) on the Vikings. First and 10 from the 46.
8:39 Eli throws again and it is a 29 yard completion. He may get a hang of this football thing yet. Second play is a four yard completion.
8:40 Eli throws it away, which still is frightening for me.
8:41 Third and 6, Eli throws to Boss for the First Down. First and 10 from the Vikings 13.
8:42 Eli completes a ten yard pass on Second down to Hagan for First and Goal with 13 seconds on the clock.
8:43 And the Vikings jump offsides. First and Goal from the 1 and a little.
Manning passes (choke) and just overthrows
Second and Goal with 8 seconds left.
8:44 False start Giants. Second and Goal from the 6 with 8 seconds left. Eli passes. Touchdown Kevin Boss!!!
8:45 It is a booth review for a bobble by Boss on the pass for the touchdown.
8:47 Touchdown, Giants!
8:48 And the extra point is good.
Min 3 NYG 14
Three seconds left with the Giants kicking off.
8:49 Joe Buck just referred to Brett's "issue off the field". What is that, Joe? You mean Brett's wang?
And that's the first half, folks.
9:04 Start of the Third Quarter. Vikings kicking off to Giants. Returned to the 20.
9:07 And Nicks may have hurt himself.
9:08 Almost another pick for Eli and then a punt. The Vikings have an amazing 50 yard return.
9:11 Second and 10. Jackson is picked by Bulluck for the Giants!
9:14 Three and Out for the Giants. Vikings ball on their own 11.
9:18 Three and Our for the Vikings. Punt. Giants ball on their own 43.
9:24 Direct snap to Bradshaw, gain of five. Third and 8 for the Giants. Sorry, by the way, for the couple of people who are reading this live, but I got a phone call. I was doing both...did I get the phone call or did I make it?
9:24 Eli sacked on third down. Giants punt team heads out.
9:25 Shenanigans on a Fair Catch and a flag was thrown.
9:27 5:25 left in the third. Two penalties on the Giants. First down Vikings on their own 15 and we head to yet another commercial break.
9:28 The iPad. TEA wants one. Badly. He also wants a $800 Batman Lego set. He is getting an iPod Touch, but not either of those things. Sometimes I am astounded by what children want.
9:30 Wait...the Giants have to rekick because the penalties were offsetting. Dodge's punt pins the Vikings at their eight yard line.
9:33 Second and 8 for the Vikings from the 9.5. Peterson takes it up to the 16.
9:34 Jackson throws an incomplete pass on Third and 2 forcing a Punt.
9:35 And of course there is a penalty. False Start Vikings.
9:36 Fair catch at the Giants 40. 3:46 left in the Third Quarter.
9:38 Eli passed on First but the receiver is out of bounds.
9:39 Second and 10, Eli pases to Pasco for a first down.
9:40 Handoff to Bradshaw who breaks off a 56 yard run for a touchdown!!!
9:40 And a penalty on the extra point. False Start Giants.
9:41 The extra point is good.
Min 3 NYG 21
9:43 Kickoff to Booker who returns it 96 yards to the house...however...there is a penalty. Illegal block in the back. These poor Vikings.
9:44 Vikings ball at the own 44. First and 10. Peterson runs for no gain.
9:45 Jackson sacked. His helmet goes flying. Third and 15.
9:46 Jackson throws a great 22 yard pass across his body for a first down at the Giants 40.
9:47 and the Giants get an Unsportsmanlike Conduct penalty. Great. First and 10 from the Giants 25.
9:48 I am getting bored now. Both teams are playing poorly and the crowd just isn't into it. The penalties (there was just another one on the Vikings) are bugging the crap out of me too. Brett does look really sad on the sidelines though.
9:49 Tuck and Osi sack Jackson yet again. Joe Webb is warming up. Tuck is in pain on the turf but is able to make it off the field under his own power.
9:50 Vikings punt and the ball is on the Giants 2 yard line. 7 seconds left in the Third Quarter.
9:51 Eli throws an outlet pass to Pasco who runs for 10 yards. First down.
End of Third Quarter.
More Commercials...
AWESOME!
You know, between the jewelry and big truck ads, I may go insane.
9:56 Giants start the Fourth Quarter from their own 13. Eli passes to Steve Smith for 10 yards and a first down.
9:57 On Second and 8, toss to Bradshaw who is stopped for a loss of three. Third and 11. This means Eli is passing.
Lucking Boss missed it and it wasn't another INT.
Dodge to punt.
9:58 Dodge punts to the Vikings 19. Eleven yard return. Joe Webb replaces Tavaris Jackson at QB for the Vikings.
10:00 Webb's pass on First is batted down.
10:01 Of course there is another penalty. Holding against the Vikings. Second and 20.
10:03 Fourth and 10. Vikings punting. Fair catch at the 28.
10:58 left in the Fourth Quarter.
Wait, what? Talking pictures in a Coors Light commercial? There has to be a way to watch sports without being exposed to this stuff. I feel dumber.
10:05 And it looks like the Giants are just going to try to chew up clock time and run the ball. Handing the ball to Bradshaw on consecutive plays. Two yards then twenty three yards.
10:07 First and 10 from the Vikings 47. Three yard run from Jacobs.
10:08 Eli passes incomplete after a pass attempt to Boss. Third and 7.
10:09 Eli passed for 1 yard to Bradshaw. The clock is still ticking.
10:10 Dodge punts. Viking fair catch at their own 13.
So...does Webb come back out?
10:12 Nope, it is Jackson. Handoff on First Down.
10:12 Second and 7. Jackson passed and it is dropped with an open field ahead of his receiver.
10:13 Third and 7. Four flags on the field...Wait for it...oh yeah, another false start. Third and 12. Bad Snap. Almost a Safety.
10:14 Fourth and 23 from the Vikings 2. 56 yard punt. Giants ball at their own 45.
10:15 Another commercial break. I just want this to be over. The game and this live blogging experiment. If this was interesting...like...a Cricket match or watching paint dry, I would be having more fun. Am I the only one who doesn't like Shrek, by the way?
10:17 Bradshaw is out and Jacobs rushes for for 8. Second and 2. Coughlin missed a challenge. It was a safety.
10:18 Jacobs runs for 7. First down. 5:32 left in the Fourth/Game.
10:18 Jacobs runs for another 9 yards. Second and 1.
10:19 Jacobs runs for 3. First and 10. 4:13 left.
10:20 Eli passes for 12 yards to Nicks. First and 10 from the Vikings 17 with 3:15 left.
10:20 Ware runs for a loss of six. Second and 16 from the 24.
10:21 Ware runs for 4. Third and 12 at the 2:00 Warning. Giants up by 18.
10:22 More freaking commercials. I need to play commercial bingo...maybe make it a drinking game. Anyone have any ideas for how to play? But...waiting for a DVD to come out is akin to having a raccoon latched onto your arm?
10:24 Ware takes a screen pass for 12 yards. Fourth Down and short deep in the Vikings territory. What do the Giants do with 1:52 left on the clock?
10:25 The Giants call a time out. Gamebreak...thank Jeebus that is wasn't another commercial block.
10:26 Ware runs up the middle and is stopped for a loss. Giants turn the ball over of downs. 1:48 left in the game with the Vikings going from their own 11.
10:27 Jackson passes on First and tries to kill his WideOut.
10:28 Jackson passes to Berry for 8 yards. Webster makes a great tackle. Jackson throws it away on Third. Fourth and 3 with 1:10 left.
10:29 Jackson passes for the first down and quickly completes a short pass on First. Vikings take a timeout (why?!?) Second and 7 from the 31 with :41 on the clock.
10:30 Osi roughs up Jackson. 15 yard penalty. :35 left.
10:31 Jackson passes. Incomplete. :30 left. Incomplete on Second. :25 left
10:32 Third and 10. Jackson breaks out of a sack to throw the ball away.
Fourth and 10. :16 left. Joe Webb replaces Jackson again and the Vikings call another timeout.
Even Buck and Troy comment that the Vikings are dragging this out.
10:34 Joe Webb rushes for 16 yards and a first down. :09 left.
10:35 Webb passes for 7 yards. :03 left.
10:35 Webb floats the ball into the end zone. It bounces around and the game is over.
Thank you folks, you've been great and I appreciate those who have stayed with me.
The Giants are 9-4. I am happy with this.
Good night!
If you watch one video today
The Alternative Ending to the Yogi Bear movie.
Now, I want to show TEA this, but that would make me a bad parent, right?
Via The Awl
Now, I want to show TEA this, but that would make me a bad parent, right?
Via The Awl
Another End of the Year Update
The Year in Facebook Pictures
There are some great pictures here and...some wonderful memories.
(End Navel Gazing)
I am amazed by some of my friends and I am looking forward to a wonderful 2011.
There are some great pictures here and...some wonderful memories.
(End Navel Gazing)
I am amazed by some of my friends and I am looking forward to a wonderful 2011.
Disappointing
I am disappointed that the Last Run in Albany is sold out.
So...
That means the next thing up on my schedule is the Polar Plunge. I know that I am doing it with Ashley (and I will see my uncle and cousin there) and Ashley did say that she may have convinced Erik to do it as well.
Would anyone else be willing to do it?
So...
That means the next thing up on my schedule is the Polar Plunge. I know that I am doing it with Ashley (and I will see my uncle and cousin there) and Ashley did say that she may have convinced Erik to do it as well.
Would anyone else be willing to do it?
Monday Morning Musings
1) I am worried about Richard Holbrooke and about what his illness would mean for Obama, the US, and the *cough* War on Terror.
2) With the State of the Union coming up in a couple of weeks, I really think that President Obama should call Speaker Boehner a "bitch" and then mention that "(his) pimp hand is strong." (This has nothing to do with the race of the President, and more with the collected yet angry man the President has been showing combined with Speaker Boehner's ability to cry at will.)
3) I took yesterday off from any type of workout because I was wonderfully sore. Maybe it was from dropping a 400 lbs. entertainment center on my shoulder, or maybe it was a result of the whiplash of Friday night, but my body needed a rest. I decided to do a light weight workout this morning, and it killed my shoulder. While I was doing it, this song popped up on shuffle. It made me laugh with a detached irony.
4) For a long time, I found A Softer World annoying, but over the past couple of weeks, I have found it funny and insightful.
5) I reiterate, when the Giants play the Vikings (at Ford Field in Detroit) (7:20 pm kickoff, on Direct TV and locally on WXXA), I want Justin Tuck to separate Brett Favre's head from his shoulders, because I really believe that the roof collapsed because of Brett's streak.
6) I came across a book from a couple of years ago that I loved when I read it. I know that I encouraged someone to read it (maybe Paige?) Anyway, if you are looking for an interesting read, check out Grey.
7) For some reason, I thought it would be a good idea to watch Jon Stewart's return on September 20, 2001, his first show after September 11th, at 2:00 am. It was not.
2) With the State of the Union coming up in a couple of weeks, I really think that President Obama should call Speaker Boehner a "bitch" and then mention that "(his) pimp hand is strong." (This has nothing to do with the race of the President, and more with the collected yet angry man the President has been showing combined with Speaker Boehner's ability to cry at will.)
3) I took yesterday off from any type of workout because I was wonderfully sore. Maybe it was from dropping a 400 lbs. entertainment center on my shoulder, or maybe it was a result of the whiplash of Friday night, but my body needed a rest. I decided to do a light weight workout this morning, and it killed my shoulder. While I was doing it, this song popped up on shuffle. It made me laugh with a detached irony.
4) For a long time, I found A Softer World annoying, but over the past couple of weeks, I have found it funny and insightful.
5) I reiterate, when the Giants play the Vikings (at Ford Field in Detroit) (7:20 pm kickoff, on Direct TV and locally on WXXA), I want Justin Tuck to separate Brett Favre's head from his shoulders, because I really believe that the roof collapsed because of Brett's streak.
6) I came across a book from a couple of years ago that I loved when I read it. I know that I encouraged someone to read it (maybe Paige?) Anyway, if you are looking for an interesting read, check out Grey.
7) For some reason, I thought it would be a good idea to watch Jon Stewart's return on September 20, 2001, his first show after September 11th, at 2:00 am. It was not.
This snark free post brought to you by...sincerity
Yep, that's Kenny Rogers.
Yes, that is Kentucky Homemade Christmas.
Yes, it is cheesy and yet still dark and the music is...well...let us be generous and not mention the music at all in the spirit of the season.
I love this song.
It started out as a joke years ago with I did my Christmas Song Download thing but every year, I kept coming back to it. Liking it more and more, appreciating it more and more, and now, interestingly enough, I love it.
While it doesn't have the skill or odd juxtaposition of talent like Bing and Bowie, it has a real sincerity at heart.
So, mock me if you wish, and some of you will, but I do love this song.
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