The Chimperor finally admitted that the US is in Iraq for the next 50 years, like they are in South Korea. That’s nice to know. He’ll be good and dead, and his mess still won’t be cleaned up.
I can understand the presence of US troops in Korea, but there are still tens of thousands of them in Japan. Japan? Why? What do those troops do, other than get in trouble for occasionally raping the local women? Keeping an eye on China, I suppose.
Also, how about that Cage Match between Condi and the Russian Foreign Minister, Lavrov. That guy is bitch-eee. By the time their comments ended, he was about two seconds away from saying “and I hate her shoes!” Smackdown!
Also, two Canadians dead in A’stan so far this week. More of the same. And what do the Conservatives do to distract us? Run attack ads in English Canada against Stephane Dion. Excuse me, but running attack ads when there’s no election campaign doesn’t make the Tories look good. It makes them look like petty assholes. And, meanwhile, despite their claims to the contrary, they aren’t fully covering the funeral expenses for the dead soldiers. Nice.
Back in the US, Gore isn’t even running but the conservatives are already out to destroy him. David Brooks’ column in the Times was moronic and shameful. The right wingers sure are afraid of Gore. MoDo was even worse. “Gore is fat”. That’s all she has to contribute to the conversation? Then shut up. What’s wrong with her lately? Yuck.
I [heart] Al.
P.S. Wake up, Senators. Time's a wastin'.
Thursday, May 31, 2007
Around the 'Hood
Conversation between yours truly and a neighbour in her 60s. Topic: another family on our street.
60: You know you have to be careful what you call them. Don’t call them Chinese.
Me: Aren’t they Vietnamese?
60: Yes. But don’t call them Chinese. They get upset and say “We’re Vietnamese”.
Me: Umm. Yeah?
60: Well, they are so picky.
Me: Umm. There is a difference. Whether they’re from Cambodia, or China, or Viet Nam. They want to be called by the right name.
60: Who cares? They’re all Asian. It’s all the same.
Me: Well. Not to them.
60: I still call them Chinese.
60: You know you have to be careful what you call them. Don’t call them Chinese.
Me: Aren’t they Vietnamese?
60: Yes. But don’t call them Chinese. They get upset and say “We’re Vietnamese”.
Me: Umm. Yeah?
60: Well, they are so picky.
Me: Umm. There is a difference. Whether they’re from Cambodia, or China, or Viet Nam. They want to be called by the right name.
60: Who cares? They’re all Asian. It’s all the same.
Me: Well. Not to them.
60: I still call them Chinese.
Wednesday, May 30, 2007
Canada is Evil
First the 9/11 hijackers entered the US from Canada.
Now Mr. TB enters the US from Canada.
See the pattern.
Canada is the source, or at least the transfer point, of all evil.
We should be nuked. Clearly. There's no other way to make the world safe.
Now Mr. TB enters the US from Canada.
See the pattern.
Canada is the source, or at least the transfer point, of all evil.
We should be nuked. Clearly. There's no other way to make the world safe.
In Jollier News
The Beer Festival starts today.
I really should go and taste-test a few...it's so close to work I could do that on my lunch hour.
I really should go and taste-test a few...it's so close to work I could do that on my lunch hour.
More Doom on the Way
Creepy story on The National last night about a guy with untreatable tuberculosis who flew from Atlanta to Paris to Prague, and then Prague to Montreal. The cops finally tracked him down in New York State and flew him back to Atlanta where he is now being kept in a superduper quarantine.
Apparently there are 4 standard drugs to treat TB and this guy’s strain is resistant to all 4 of them.
Now the authorities want to test everyone who was sitting near him on all his flights. Great. Good luck tracking those folks down. What about the people he encountered on the ground?
While we’re all waiting for bird flu to kill us, what if this guy turns out to be Patient Zero in an epidemic of ultra-virulent scary-ass TB that’s already moving through North America and Europe.
Apparently there are 4 standard drugs to treat TB and this guy’s strain is resistant to all 4 of them.
Now the authorities want to test everyone who was sitting near him on all his flights. Great. Good luck tracking those folks down. What about the people he encountered on the ground?
While we’re all waiting for bird flu to kill us, what if this guy turns out to be Patient Zero in an epidemic of ultra-virulent scary-ass TB that’s already moving through North America and Europe.
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
Today's Birding News
Don't Go Killing All the Bees
I’m reading about the bee problem. You know, the fact that so many hives have collapsed this year and so many billions of bees have died that it may affect our fruit-growing production here in North America. Terrific. Something else to worry about.
Here’s the quote that scared me: “Bees are a necessary part of our food production. If we don't grow our own cherries and apples, can't we just buy them somewhere else? The answer is yes. But do we want to become as dependent on foreign nations for our food as we are dependent on them for fuel?”
Here’s the quote that scared me: “Bees are a necessary part of our food production. If we don't grow our own cherries and apples, can't we just buy them somewhere else? The answer is yes. But do we want to become as dependent on foreign nations for our food as we are dependent on them for fuel?”
Yikes. We're already buying Europe's Best vegetables from China, along with antifreeze-laden toothpaste.
So here’s a doomsday scenario for ya: War over oil, war over food and war over water. (Oh yeah, America, we KNOW you’re coming after our fresh water some day. We know it.)
Jeez. How grim.
And speaking of collapsing….Stupid Senators.
Monday, May 28, 2007
Clive and Smarty chatting on the couch
Slate.com has a series of Clive James interviews with various writers, directors, etc. I watched the Martin Amis interview, which I enjoyed but one thing struck me as unintentionally funny. There are several instances where they both appear to name-drop the most famous writers they can think of, and it really comes across like a parody of intellectuals rather than a real writer talking to a serious interviewer.
It’s in the way James will say “Oh, and Joyce”, and Amis responds with “Yes, yes, Joyce”. Or James: “Like Nabokov”; Amis: “Yes, of course, Nabokov”. It feels like a Fry & Laurie sketch. Especially in the way Clive James is perched on the couch, and both of them are smoking and drinking throughout the interview.
But Smarty has a great line. I don’t remember if it’s an original or he is quoting somebody else, but he says: Finnegans Wake is a 700-page crossword clue, and the answer is “The”.
It’s in the way James will say “Oh, and Joyce”, and Amis responds with “Yes, yes, Joyce”. Or James: “Like Nabokov”; Amis: “Yes, of course, Nabokov”. It feels like a Fry & Laurie sketch. Especially in the way Clive James is perched on the couch, and both of them are smoking and drinking throughout the interview.
But Smarty has a great line. I don’t remember if it’s an original or he is quoting somebody else, but he says: Finnegans Wake is a 700-page crossword clue, and the answer is “The”.
He's deader than [blank]
No more frivolities today, only sombre thoughts, as one of our icons, our hero Charles Nelson Reilly has passed on to the Great Match Game in the sky.
Gene Rayburn is waiting for him on the other side, holding that weird long skinny microphone.
Gene Rayburn is waiting for him on the other side, holding that weird long skinny microphone.
And furthermore...
if you do eat Chinese products, don't brush your teeth afterwards with Chinese toothpaste!
"MANAGUA, Nicaragua -- Nicaraguan police seized 6,000 tubes of a Chinese-made toothpaste suspected of containing a chemical that killed at least 51 people in nearby Panama last year, the health minister said Sunday.
All U.S. imports of Chinese toothpaste were halted last week to test for diethylene glycol _ a chemical commonly used in antifreeze and brake fluid."
I wonder if they put antifreeze in toothpaste so you don't get that painful numbing feeling when you eat ice cream?
"MANAGUA, Nicaragua -- Nicaraguan police seized 6,000 tubes of a Chinese-made toothpaste suspected of containing a chemical that killed at least 51 people in nearby Panama last year, the health minister said Sunday.
All U.S. imports of Chinese toothpaste were halted last week to test for diethylene glycol _ a chemical commonly used in antifreeze and brake fluid."
I wonder if they put antifreeze in toothpaste so you don't get that painful numbing feeling when you eat ice cream?
Sunday, May 27, 2007
Just askin'
How can a product produced in China be marketed under the name "Europe's Best"?
Am I ultrasensitive, or does that seem a tad dishonest?
They aren't hiding it. The words "Product of China" are pretty big on the back of this bag of frozen vegetables I'm looking at.
Last time I bought a bag of "Europe's Best" it was a product of Belgium. Which last time I checked was still in Europe, so that was okay. But now? I dunno what gives.
I confess the recent dog- and cat-food scandal has made me nervous about all consumables coming from China.
Am I ultrasensitive, or does that seem a tad dishonest?
They aren't hiding it. The words "Product of China" are pretty big on the back of this bag of frozen vegetables I'm looking at.
Last time I bought a bag of "Europe's Best" it was a product of Belgium. Which last time I checked was still in Europe, so that was okay. But now? I dunno what gives.
I confess the recent dog- and cat-food scandal has made me nervous about all consumables coming from China.
Kyoto Trading Cards
For work reasons, I’ve been reading a report on emissions trading and the Kyoto Protocol, and you know what? This is bullshit.
There’s a provision that allows rich, western countries to "help" poor underdeveloped countries cut their emissions. And then the rich country can use this help in their tally of reducing emissions, even though they haven’t actually cut any pollution in their own country.
Basically it’s a provision that allow countries like Canada or France (let’s not even mention the USA) to keep polluting their heads off while earning stupid do-gooder brownie points by saying oh look we helped Guatemala or Uganda reduce their greenhouse gas emissions. Not that they were emitting that many in the first place, but that’s the way it is. It’s always easier to make the poor, weak guy clean up his act than do it yourself.
And, as a bonus, we get to keep producing whatever it is we produce as cheaply as we can while making the poor country increase its production costs, so they can never get ahead. It’s a western win-win, make money and keep polluting while keeping the poor guys down. Way to go.
Then there’s this whole "market" where countries can buy and sell their emissions credits. Again, it’s a way for rich countries to buy their way out of actually doing the hard work of reducing pollution. Just buy the credits off the poor guys who don’t use all their credits because they are poor and not manufacturing all that much.
I suppose the only way to get a global agreement is to leave plenty of loopholes for the rich countries to buy their way out of responsibility, but still. This is the best we can do? It’s sad.
There’s a provision that allows rich, western countries to "help" poor underdeveloped countries cut their emissions. And then the rich country can use this help in their tally of reducing emissions, even though they haven’t actually cut any pollution in their own country.
Basically it’s a provision that allow countries like Canada or France (let’s not even mention the USA) to keep polluting their heads off while earning stupid do-gooder brownie points by saying oh look we helped Guatemala or Uganda reduce their greenhouse gas emissions. Not that they were emitting that many in the first place, but that’s the way it is. It’s always easier to make the poor, weak guy clean up his act than do it yourself.
And, as a bonus, we get to keep producing whatever it is we produce as cheaply as we can while making the poor country increase its production costs, so they can never get ahead. It’s a western win-win, make money and keep polluting while keeping the poor guys down. Way to go.
Then there’s this whole "market" where countries can buy and sell their emissions credits. Again, it’s a way for rich countries to buy their way out of actually doing the hard work of reducing pollution. Just buy the credits off the poor guys who don’t use all their credits because they are poor and not manufacturing all that much.
I suppose the only way to get a global agreement is to leave plenty of loopholes for the rich countries to buy their way out of responsibility, but still. This is the best we can do? It’s sad.
Ranting about Global Warming...again
Read a good article in the London Review of Books (lrb.co.uk) on global warming.
I've reached the point where I don't even care if this phenomenon is man-made or entirely natural. What concerns me is, what are we going to do about it? The articles raises a number of questions that I don't see discussed often enough. Here they are (it's a long quote, but has a good punchline, so I'm including it all):
I've reached the point where I don't even care if this phenomenon is man-made or entirely natural. What concerns me is, what are we going to do about it? The articles raises a number of questions that I don't see discussed often enough. Here they are (it's a long quote, but has a good punchline, so I'm including it all):
"What would happen if the harvest failed all across Europe or the US or Africa?
What would happen if it failed again the next year, and the year after that?
What would happen if the rain-and-meltwater pattern in the Yangtze valley, the core of Chinese agriculture, changed?
What would happen if the glacial run-off from the Himalayas, which supplies most of India with its water, were to change?
What would happen if the behaviour of El Niño were to become so unpredictable that agriculture in the Southern Hemisphere became unsustainable at current population levels?
What would happen if those glaciers were to melt away?
What would happen if the Gulf Stream (the Atlantic’s ‘meridional overturning circulation’, as it is scientifically known) were to shut down suddenly – the Day after Tomorrow disaster scenario? The prediction is that Western Europe would become 8ºC cooler, about the temperature of Canada. But Canada produces enough food to feed 30 million people and enough grain to feed 60 million. Western Europe has a population of about 450 million. So what would they eat?
Hurricane Katrina gave us a glimpse of how quickly a meteorological event can destroy a city in the richest country in the world. We may be moving towards a future in which events like that come to seem commonplace. Anything in the paper today, darling? Not much – oh, all the Dutch drowned."
Ho hum, the poor Dutch. Always the poor Dutch. It is like Global Warming is World War II and 2007 is 1938. Everyone's standing around saying, hmmm, the situation is bad. Yes indeed it's bad. It's terrible. Yep, things sure are dangerous. Terrible and dangerous. Terribly dangerous. Let's all nod our heads in agreement.
So what's to be done about it? Let's all shrug our shoulders. What? You talking to me? says every government. Governments can't impose any harsh measure 'cause, heck, they need to get re-elected.
Friday, May 25, 2007
In Birding News
In case anyone missed this story, it was my laugh of the day yesterday:
As President Bush took a question Thursday in the White House Rose Garden about scandals involving his Attorney General, he remarked, "I've got confidence in Al Gonzales doin' the job." Simultaneously, a sparrow flew overhead and left a splash on the President's sleeve, which Bush tried several times to wipe off. (ABC)
I thought the airspace over the White House was a no-fly zone. How did that Al-Qaeda sympathizer bird get in there?
As President Bush took a question Thursday in the White House Rose Garden about scandals involving his Attorney General, he remarked, "I've got confidence in Al Gonzales doin' the job." Simultaneously, a sparrow flew overhead and left a splash on the President's sleeve, which Bush tried several times to wipe off. (ABC)
I thought the airspace over the White House was a no-fly zone. How did that Al-Qaeda sympathizer bird get in there?
Groan!
Looks like we might have another election. We all knew this minority government biz wasn't going to work 'round these parts.
As much as I don't care for Charest & Co., I'm annoyed that the opposition parties are willing to vote the government out after only 2 months. Elections cost money. Nobody wants to go through another one so soon. Argh.
As much as I don't care for Charest & Co., I'm annoyed that the opposition parties are willing to vote the government out after only 2 months. Elections cost money. Nobody wants to go through another one so soon. Argh.
Thursday, May 24, 2007
Don Giovanni
Loyal readers will know how important culture is to this blog. In keeping with that tradition, I invited friend-of-the-show JAW Fan to submit his comments on the local production of big bad Don Giovanni currently on at Place des Arts.
Take it away JAW...
"The opening décor which had a somewhat Vincent-Price-movie-kind-of-look was quite nice. Slowly it was pulled away to reveal a type of industrial scaffolding. Costumes were not of the original period, but not particularly modern. Some nice lighting effects and atmosphere in the second half, which helped create a dark ambiance.
There were a couple of goofy thugs on stage(who stole chicken legs off Don Giovanni's plate, at one point) who needed to go. Singing was what you expect from a decent Montreal production, ok but not great since we haven't got the money to pay the really good people.
Now my complaints, the woman behind me with the plastic bag who kept playing with it and making crinkly noises, the woman behind me who was opening her candy during my favorite aria from the opera (needless to say, I turned my head and gave her a glaring look...I don't think she ever dared to eat her candy afterwards), the eleven year-old girl who kept sprawling out restlessly in the chair in front of me (at least she was quiet), and last-but-always-my-biggie the incessant coughing (Cold season is over...and if you do have a cough, have you never heard of Buckley's) And worse than the coughing, all the throat clearing...why are you clearing your throat atthe opera? It's not like you're talking (which naturally some people were doing!!!! They think if they whisper, no one will hear them. It's an opera,not a Black Sabbath concert...at least this time, however, no one sang along.
I might have to go back to boycotting live opera and focus on opera DVDs instead."
Take it away JAW...
"The opening décor which had a somewhat Vincent-Price-movie-kind-of-look was quite nice. Slowly it was pulled away to reveal a type of industrial scaffolding. Costumes were not of the original period, but not particularly modern. Some nice lighting effects and atmosphere in the second half, which helped create a dark ambiance.
There were a couple of goofy thugs on stage(who stole chicken legs off Don Giovanni's plate, at one point) who needed to go. Singing was what you expect from a decent Montreal production, ok but not great since we haven't got the money to pay the really good people.
Now my complaints, the woman behind me with the plastic bag who kept playing with it and making crinkly noises, the woman behind me who was opening her candy during my favorite aria from the opera (needless to say, I turned my head and gave her a glaring look...I don't think she ever dared to eat her candy afterwards), the eleven year-old girl who kept sprawling out restlessly in the chair in front of me (at least she was quiet), and last-but-always-my-biggie the incessant coughing (Cold season is over...and if you do have a cough, have you never heard of Buckley's) And worse than the coughing, all the throat clearing...why are you clearing your throat atthe opera? It's not like you're talking (which naturally some people were doing!!!! They think if they whisper, no one will hear them. It's an opera,not a Black Sabbath concert...at least this time, however, no one sang along.
I might have to go back to boycotting live opera and focus on opera DVDs instead."
It's Dylan's Birthday
Bob is 66 today.
It's a gorgeous day. Lilacs are everywhere. The street smells so sweet.
What better way to celebrate than to take a day off work and stay home, puttering in the garden, planting annuals and tomatoes. Not that I've done any of that yet, but I'm heading outdoors any minute now.
Had an excellent practice last night. The canal was so calm, and the weather was perfect. There is a bakery somewhere between St. Henri and Ville LaSalle because we paddled down past the Angrignon overpass and right near there, man, the smell of fresh baked bread was unbelievable.
My technique is definitely improving. I paddled hard for the whole practice and yet didn't have sore arms at all. I'm finally learning to use my back and shoulders. If I can figure this out, anyone can.
It's a gorgeous day. Lilacs are everywhere. The street smells so sweet.
What better way to celebrate than to take a day off work and stay home, puttering in the garden, planting annuals and tomatoes. Not that I've done any of that yet, but I'm heading outdoors any minute now.
Had an excellent practice last night. The canal was so calm, and the weather was perfect. There is a bakery somewhere between St. Henri and Ville LaSalle because we paddled down past the Angrignon overpass and right near there, man, the smell of fresh baked bread was unbelievable.
My technique is definitely improving. I paddled hard for the whole practice and yet didn't have sore arms at all. I'm finally learning to use my back and shoulders. If I can figure this out, anyone can.
Wednesday, May 23, 2007
Pathetic Losers
The Democrats caved on that war-funding bill down in the US of A.
How lame is that.
What are they afraid of?
How can such an incompetent and evil regime have no opposition?
Our neighbours to the south are totally sunk. There is not a political leader in the whole country with a backbone. My condolences.
How lame is that.
What are they afraid of?
How can such an incompetent and evil regime have no opposition?
Our neighbours to the south are totally sunk. There is not a political leader in the whole country with a backbone. My condolences.
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
Big Al
I'm watching Al Gore on Larry King right now.
I hope Al never runs for President again because he would go back to being careful and boring, and he's much better the way he is now.
I hope Al never runs for President again because he would go back to being careful and boring, and he's much better the way he is now.
Self-Help
I gotta get working on that self-help best-seller. Pronto.
I just saw the Organization's budget for the next three years, and it says we have to cut our workforce by 18%. That's a lot. Basically we have to go from 610 to 500-ish staff.
Any ideas for a new career for me?
I just saw the Organization's budget for the next three years, and it says we have to cut our workforce by 18%. That's a lot. Basically we have to go from 610 to 500-ish staff.
Any ideas for a new career for me?
Tuesday After Holiday Monday
Oh. I am so tired. Why is it so difficult to come back to work?
I must start buying lottery tickets.
Or I have to write the next big self-help book for suckers, like The Secret. Maybe I'll call it the Super Secret. Or The Mystery. Or Rescue Your Life. (Hey, that's not bad...) Anything to make a fortune and leave the 9-to-5 and sleep in on beautiful mornings like this. Yawn.
At least the Express bus was running.
I must start buying lottery tickets.
Or I have to write the next big self-help book for suckers, like The Secret. Maybe I'll call it the Super Secret. Or The Mystery. Or Rescue Your Life. (Hey, that's not bad...) Anything to make a fortune and leave the 9-to-5 and sleep in on beautiful mornings like this. Yawn.
At least the Express bus was running.
Monday, May 21, 2007
Holiday Monday
It's a lovely day for a holiday. Thank you, Queen Victoria. Or, in Quebec, merci aux "Patriotes" whoever you are. They keep changing the name of the Holiday here, for reasons known only to the powers that be.
For a long time, people called it la Fete de Dollard in honour of Dollard-des-Ormeaux, who it then turned out was some kind of historical dud, so he lost the holiday. Now it's for your run-on-the-mill Quebecois patriots. I'm so old-fashioned I still call it La Fete de la Reine. As far as I'm concerned, Queen Victoria is not an imminent threat to our "national" identity.
We'd be better off calling it tomato and flower planting day because that's what most people do anyway.
Or we could call it one-day-before-the-transit-strike day. I really hope they settle this transit dispute without a strike tomorrow. Otherwise that will be a pain in the ass.
For a long time, people called it la Fete de Dollard in honour of Dollard-des-Ormeaux, who it then turned out was some kind of historical dud, so he lost the holiday. Now it's for your run-on-the-mill Quebecois patriots. I'm so old-fashioned I still call it La Fete de la Reine. As far as I'm concerned, Queen Victoria is not an imminent threat to our "national" identity.
We'd be better off calling it tomato and flower planting day because that's what most people do anyway.
Or we could call it one-day-before-the-transit-strike day. I really hope they settle this transit dispute without a strike tomorrow. Otherwise that will be a pain in the ass.
Saturday, May 19, 2007
Senators Win, Street Sense Doesn't
Yay! Ottawa is off to the Stanley Cup finals. I'm happy.
In other sports news, a very exciting Preakness today, which I missed unfortunately. Another year with no Triple Crown winner. Who knew those three wins were so hard to achieve? Will we ever see another one?
There was a 25-year gap between Citation and Secretariat. And next year will be 30 years since Affirmed. Crazy long drought.
Segue
Speaking of droughts...I read today that it is finally raining in Australia. That's very good news indeed.
In other sports news, a very exciting Preakness today, which I missed unfortunately. Another year with no Triple Crown winner. Who knew those three wins were so hard to achieve? Will we ever see another one?
There was a 25-year gap between Citation and Secretariat. And next year will be 30 years since Affirmed. Crazy long drought.
Segue
Speaking of droughts...I read today that it is finally raining in Australia. That's very good news indeed.
Friday, May 18, 2007
Who's your Hitler?
Chris weighs in on one of my favourite types of rhetoric today.
I mean, of course, the old standby:
Comparing your enemy to Hitler.
Click on the link.
I mean, of course, the old standby:
Comparing your enemy to Hitler.
Click on the link.
Another Sign of Spring
Spring doesn't just mean fresh War in the Middle East...
"Spring has arrived in ...southeastern Vermont ....Resident Theresa Toney said she was dining at a downtown restaurant when she spotted this spring's first naked person. She looked out the window "and saw a man in his 60s walking up and down Main Street totally nude," she told the Brattleboro Reformer newspaper. "This is indecent exposure where it doesn't belong." (AP)
This story, of course, raises two questions:
1) Where does indecent exposure belong?
2) What was the naked guy doing on Main Street, other than just being naked?
"Spring has arrived in ...southeastern Vermont ....Resident Theresa Toney said she was dining at a downtown restaurant when she spotted this spring's first naked person. She looked out the window "and saw a man in his 60s walking up and down Main Street totally nude," she told the Brattleboro Reformer newspaper. "This is indecent exposure where it doesn't belong." (AP)
This story, of course, raises two questions:
1) Where does indecent exposure belong?
2) What was the naked guy doing on Main Street, other than just being naked?
Wolfie's a Goner
Another one bites the dust. You knew Wolfowitz's days were numbered when the White House announced that "all options were on the table" in his regard. Isn't that the phrase they usually use when they're planning a nuclear strike on you. I believe Iran raised its hand, and said: "Wait a minute, that's my threat! How dare you use it on someone else! "
So that means the only one left on the Get Lost List is Alberto Gonzales. He's really digging in his heels. That man's like a turd that won't flush.*
*Yesss! That's a "Waterworld" quote. A first!!
So that means the only one left on the Get Lost List is Alberto Gonzales. He's really digging in his heels. That man's like a turd that won't flush.*
*Yesss! That's a "Waterworld" quote. A first!!
Thursday, May 17, 2007
Hitchens on Falwell
You know how conflicted I am about Christopher Hitchens. Like him. Hate him. Hate him more than like him.
But when he hits one out of the park, I have to give him credit.
I'm too much of a luddite to know how to post a YouTube link on the site, but it truly is worth seeking out Hitchens on AC360. Hilarious vitriol.
What a hoot. And all true to boot.
But when he hits one out of the park, I have to give him credit.
I'm too much of a luddite to know how to post a YouTube link on the site, but it truly is worth seeking out Hitchens on AC360. Hilarious vitriol.
What a hoot. And all true to boot.
It's Cold
When I got home last night, my hands were numb from the cold. I wore gloves this morning and didn't feel like a fool.
And the furnace started up in the night. Temps were closing to freezing.
How can I even think about planting tomatoes this weekend with this kind of nasty weather?
This is doing nothing to alleviate my grumpiness.
And the furnace started up in the night. Temps were closing to freezing.
How can I even think about planting tomatoes this weekend with this kind of nasty weather?
This is doing nothing to alleviate my grumpiness.
Our Dumb World
Spring is here, and we all know what that means. It's the beginning of the War Season in the Middle East.
Hamas and Fatah have been pounding the crap out of each other for a week now. Does anyone know why they do this? And why they keep on doing it? I saw that some Palestinian civilians staged a demonstration against this Palestinian-on-Palestinian violence. And what happened? They got shot at. Way to go.
Now Israel is bombing Gaza. Ho-hum.
It’s just a matter of time before somebody lobs a bomb into Lebanon and wheee, we’re off.
Whatever happened to those two kidnapped Israeli soldiers who sparked last summer’s war? They’re still being held prisoner, aren’t they? Phew, glad that was resolved.
Hamas and Fatah have been pounding the crap out of each other for a week now. Does anyone know why they do this? And why they keep on doing it? I saw that some Palestinian civilians staged a demonstration against this Palestinian-on-Palestinian violence. And what happened? They got shot at. Way to go.
Now Israel is bombing Gaza. Ho-hum.
It’s just a matter of time before somebody lobs a bomb into Lebanon and wheee, we’re off.
Whatever happened to those two kidnapped Israeli soldiers who sparked last summer’s war? They’re still being held prisoner, aren’t they? Phew, glad that was resolved.
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
Don't try this at home
MADISON, Wis. (AP) - A delivery truck ran over a cyclist's head, leaving him only with a concussion and a mangled helmet. Ryan Lipscomb, 26, was shaken up, especially after he saw the condition of his helmet.
"I didn't see it coming, but I sure felt it roll over my head," he said. "It feels really strange to have a truck run over your head."
Question: Why was the cyclist lying in the road?
"I didn't see it coming, but I sure felt it roll over my head," he said. "It feels really strange to have a truck run over your head."
Question: Why was the cyclist lying in the road?
Will the Senators win tonight?
They better.
I'm buying popcorn and everything! I want to enjoy this game.
I'm buying popcorn and everything! I want to enjoy this game.
Cannes
Wong Kar Wai is premiering his first English-language film at Cannes. I love Wong Kar Wai as much as anybody, but if the movie doesn't star Tony Leung, well, I'm just not that interested. Jude Law is no substitute for Tony Leung. Thus have I spoken.
Also, there's another Hong Kong special showing that is a collaboration between Tsui Hark, Johnnie To and Ringo Lam. I don't know what the Cantonese title is, but in English it should be called Too Many Cooks. I hope I'm wrong and it turns out to be some kind of monster-size masterpiece.
Also, there's another Hong Kong special showing that is a collaboration between Tsui Hark, Johnnie To and Ringo Lam. I don't know what the Cantonese title is, but in English it should be called Too Many Cooks. I hope I'm wrong and it turns out to be some kind of monster-size masterpiece.
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
I Love Clive James
Ten minutes with nothing to do?
Go to the Times of London site’s Arts & Entertainment section and watch Clive James’s film on 20th Century. He’s still got it! He's the dream commentator for those of us who like our history lessons with a lot of humour in them. No matter how grim the topic.
Years ago, CBC ran his series Fame in the 20th Century and I was blown away by him. The only thing I retained was his referring to the commander of the Luftwaffe as “Fatty” Goering. It was completely unnecessary. It added nothing but was still so funny.
Anyway, his current film is about dictators and includes all the biggies, Stalin, Fidel and Mao, and the snide commentary is a lot of fun.
Did you know that Coco Chanel was friendly with the Nazis? I didn’t know anything about this. It would be enough to make me toss out my Chanel No. 5, if I had any to toss out.
http://entertainment.timesonline.co.uk/tol/arts_and_entertainment/
Go to the Times of London site’s Arts & Entertainment section and watch Clive James’s film on 20th Century. He’s still got it! He's the dream commentator for those of us who like our history lessons with a lot of humour in them. No matter how grim the topic.
Years ago, CBC ran his series Fame in the 20th Century and I was blown away by him. The only thing I retained was his referring to the commander of the Luftwaffe as “Fatty” Goering. It was completely unnecessary. It added nothing but was still so funny.
Anyway, his current film is about dictators and includes all the biggies, Stalin, Fidel and Mao, and the snide commentary is a lot of fun.
Did you know that Coco Chanel was friendly with the Nazis? I didn’t know anything about this. It would be enough to make me toss out my Chanel No. 5, if I had any to toss out.
http://entertainment.timesonline.co.uk/tol/arts_and_entertainment/
The Senators Carry On
They are one easy win away from the Stanley Cup Finals.
I must confess that seeing Harper in the crowd in his Senators jersey was almost enough to make me switch my allegiance. Almost.
I must confess that seeing Harper in the crowd in his Senators jersey was almost enough to make me switch my allegiance. Almost.
Monday, May 14, 2007
The Tao of Steve
Steve McQueen has been dead for 26 years, and there's never been a big revival movement about him.
How come?
He was cool.
Shouldn't there, at some point, have been a period where the people who decide these things decided that Steve McQueen would be the dead icon du jour and his movies would get re-released and people would adopt his style, his look, etc. No biopic. If this ever happened, I missed it.
His widow has now published a book and there's an exhibit of photographs currently showing in London. So maybe 2007 will be the Summer of Steve.
Who could play Steve in a biopic? My vote: Heath Ledger.
How come?
He was cool.
Shouldn't there, at some point, have been a period where the people who decide these things decided that Steve McQueen would be the dead icon du jour and his movies would get re-released and people would adopt his style, his look, etc. No biopic. If this ever happened, I missed it.
His widow has now published a book and there's an exhibit of photographs currently showing in London. So maybe 2007 will be the Summer of Steve.
Who could play Steve in a biopic? My vote: Heath Ledger.
Jane Fonda: Brazen Hussy
Catching up on my t.v. watching yesterday, I was aghast at Jane Fonda’s appearance on (literally on) Stephen Colbert last week.
She sat on his lap and kissed him throughout the interview. It was very bizarre. Colbert fell totally out of character. He looked dazed and bashful and maybe a bit desperate about how to keep the interview going.
She didn’t look like she was kidding, and he looked like a guy who’s thinking his marriage is going to be on the rocks in the very near future.
When she had been on the first time, with Gloria Steinem, and had kissed Colbert twice during that segment, I’d thought, hmmm, she’s really after him. Now it’s clear she was back for more. I hope she sent a note to Mrs. Colbert. Some kind of offering should be made, or else Stephen’s got some serious ‘splaining to do.
She sat on his lap and kissed him throughout the interview. It was very bizarre. Colbert fell totally out of character. He looked dazed and bashful and maybe a bit desperate about how to keep the interview going.
She didn’t look like she was kidding, and he looked like a guy who’s thinking his marriage is going to be on the rocks in the very near future.
When she had been on the first time, with Gloria Steinem, and had kissed Colbert twice during that segment, I’d thought, hmmm, she’s really after him. Now it’s clear she was back for more. I hope she sent a note to Mrs. Colbert. Some kind of offering should be made, or else Stephen’s got some serious ‘splaining to do.
Sunday, May 13, 2007
Happy Mother's Day
Best Mother's Day wishes to Ms. Mushrooms, Rattansifan, Ms. Chicken Coupons and Anne, and any other Moms out there that I may have missed.
Make sure your families treat you right!
Make sure your families treat you right!
Friday, May 11, 2007
I've Thrown in the Towel
I have officially given up pursuit of Mr. Perfect Storm.
After a succession of friendly passing encounters and e-mails, I got totally shut out yesterday. Ignored, snubbed.
I know I didn’t do anything wrong. I also know I’m too old for this kind of crap.
His loss.
Don’t let me go back on this if he decides to be friendly again. Hold me to it!
Still love the shoes, though. Okay, I’m weak. I admit it.
After a succession of friendly passing encounters and e-mails, I got totally shut out yesterday. Ignored, snubbed.
I know I didn’t do anything wrong. I also know I’m too old for this kind of crap.
His loss.
Don’t let me go back on this if he decides to be friendly again. Hold me to it!
Still love the shoes, though. Okay, I’m weak. I admit it.
Yesterday
There was a lot of traffic on the site yesterday.
Apparently, many people thirst for more knowledge of fist-fights at Symphony Hall.
Apparently, many people thirst for more knowledge of fist-fights at Symphony Hall.
Thursday, May 10, 2007
Senators Win
One down, three to go.
They will make my hair go grey(er) if I put too much into this series.
They will make my hair go grey(er) if I put too much into this series.
This never happened when Arthur Fiedler was Boss
BOSTON (AP) - Concert-goers, and even Boston Pops conductor Keith Lockhart, were caught off-guard when a fight broke out on opening night at usually sedate Symphony Hall.
Television video of the fight Wednesday night showed two men struggling in the balcony - one with his shirt pulled off - as several people stood around them. (CBC)
I want to know who gets into a brawl at a Boston Pops concert. It's just too silly.
I also love the fact that it was caught on video. Is it on YouTube yet?
Television video of the fight Wednesday night showed two men struggling in the balcony - one with his shirt pulled off - as several people stood around them. (CBC)
I want to know who gets into a brawl at a Boston Pops concert. It's just too silly.
I also love the fact that it was caught on video. Is it on YouTube yet?
Tony's a Goner
No need to thank me.
I'm accepting submissions for "Public Figures You Would Like Me To Get Rid Of".
International figures, or federal, provincial, even municipal. I'll use my awesome powers to send them into retirement.
I'm accepting submissions for "Public Figures You Would Like Me To Get Rid Of".
International figures, or federal, provincial, even municipal. I'll use my awesome powers to send them into retirement.
Wednesday, May 09, 2007
Death by Rowing
God, practice was brutal tonight. My arms feel like noodles, and my upper back feels like it's in a permanent pinch. Where's my personal masseur?
We finally met our "official" coach tonight. She's about 23 and has rowed on the national team. I liked her.
Why?
She was wearing a Dylan T-shirt. Her parents must be into Bob.
We finally met our "official" coach tonight. She's about 23 and has rowed on the national team. I liked her.
Why?
She was wearing a Dylan T-shirt. Her parents must be into Bob.
Tuesday, May 08, 2007
State Dinner Guest List
At the state dinner last night Mr Bush was seated between the Queen and Nancy Reagan. Among other top-table guests were George Shultz, the late President Reagan’s Secretary of State; the tenor Plácido Domingo’s wife Marta, herself an opera director and retired singer; and the golfer Arnold Palmer. Another guest, although farther across the room, was Calvin Borel, the winning jockey in the Kentucky Derby, which the Queen saw on Saturday. (The Times of London)
Pardon me, but what the f*** is Arnold Palmer doing at the top-table of the state dinner for the Queen? Is he worthy of sitting with Placido Domingo's wife? Really? And what was she doing there? And where the hell was Placido?
Now, I watched the Kentucky Derby and I thought Calvin Borel was just the sweetest, cutest lil country boy ever, but I'd love to know how he felt at this big affair. He's gotta feel out of place, right? But he probably did no worse than W manners-wise.
Pardon me, but what the f*** is Arnold Palmer doing at the top-table of the state dinner for the Queen? Is he worthy of sitting with Placido Domingo's wife? Really? And what was she doing there? And where the hell was Placido?
Now, I watched the Kentucky Derby and I thought Calvin Borel was just the sweetest, cutest lil country boy ever, but I'd love to know how he felt at this big affair. He's gotta feel out of place, right? But he probably did no worse than W manners-wise.
Just Go
Why is Wolfowitz still hanging on at the World Bank? Just leave already. I guess he's waiting for some face-saving exit plan. Who cares? And a package. Apparently he'll get a nice package when he's booted out. Because you know he really needs the money. Urgh.
And Alberto Gonzalez? Man, he's still hanging on too. Do us all a favour and get out of public life.
And Tony Blair? Why is he dragging out his good-byes? Be off with you, Tony.
UPDATE: I was going to add Andre Boisclair to the Just Go list, but then I thought, nah, I'll cut him some slack. So what does he do? Resign. Hmm.
And Alberto Gonzalez? Man, he's still hanging on too. Do us all a favour and get out of public life.
And Tony Blair? Why is he dragging out his good-byes? Be off with you, Tony.
UPDATE: I was going to add Andre Boisclair to the Just Go list, but then I thought, nah, I'll cut him some slack. So what does he do? Resign. Hmm.
Monday, May 07, 2007
Ouch
I was moved to the right side of the boat tonight. That may be my better side, but I think I have the makings of an ambidextrous paddler.
This being said, we had to row a 12-minute segment, then a 10-minute, then an 8-minute. By the time we reached minute 6 of the final 8, my paddle was basically just dragging itself back and forth in the water. I couldn't lift it anymore. My poor tricep was crying in pain.
Builds character.
This being said, we had to row a 12-minute segment, then a 10-minute, then an 8-minute. By the time we reached minute 6 of the final 8, my paddle was basically just dragging itself back and forth in the water. I couldn't lift it anymore. My poor tricep was crying in pain.
Builds character.
Gord
I finally got around to downloading my sister's Gordon Lightfoot CD.
Now I can listen to Canadian Railway Trilogy any time I want.
This is a nostalgic thrill of the highest order.
Also, I borrowed one of her SuperHits of the 70s CDs so I am now in possession of the Bay City Rollers' Saturday Night, too. Wow.
Now I can listen to Canadian Railway Trilogy any time I want.
This is a nostalgic thrill of the highest order.
Also, I borrowed one of her SuperHits of the 70s CDs so I am now in possession of the Bay City Rollers' Saturday Night, too. Wow.
Grindhouse
I finally saw Grindhouse. And I can say with confidence that when Mr. Mushrooms Junior is 17 or 18 he is going to like this movie. Lots of blood, gore, zombies, machine-gun-leg shooting action, car stunts and pretty girls.
And supercool Taratino music.
It should be seen in a theatre. I felt like I was back in Cinema V, except my feet weren't sticking to the floor.
And supercool Taratino music.
It should be seen in a theatre. I felt like I was back in Cinema V, except my feet weren't sticking to the floor.
Sunday, May 06, 2007
Hockey News
My wily strategy of ignoring the Senators is working very nicely. But now that they are the only remaining Canadian team in the race, I have to start watching them, thus dooming them to certain failure.
Alfredsson hasn’t collapsed. This is good. Maybe it’s because he isn’t dragging around as much hair as he usually does this time of year. I’ll grasp onto any theory at all.
I am so glad to see New Jersey gone, not because of the players but because of that scum GM Lamoriello who fired the coach and then took over. A pox on him, I said.
I’m assuming Buffalo will play Ottawa next. That should be really exciting and worth watching. I can’t bear it.
Alfredsson hasn’t collapsed. This is good. Maybe it’s because he isn’t dragging around as much hair as he usually does this time of year. I’ll grasp onto any theory at all.
I am so glad to see New Jersey gone, not because of the players but because of that scum GM Lamoriello who fired the coach and then took over. A pox on him, I said.
I’m assuming Buffalo will play Ottawa next. That should be really exciting and worth watching. I can’t bear it.
French Election Day
I think this election is a big deal. Which is why it seems rather pathetic that the two candidates are so lame. Why is it in Western democracies that nobody "good" seems to want to run for office anymore?
Or is it that politicians everywhere have always been less than they appear, but today nobody pretends otherwise?
I don't know if the international press collectively decided to pick on Segolene Royal, but every story I read about her was about her unpreparedness and her lack of knowledge of the world. I think there were two stories about her and her knowledge of Quebec, and it both cases she was duped and looked pretty dumb.
Sarkozy, on the other hand, just looks evil. He's a French Thatcher? Great.
Back at home, who do we have in the running? Justin Trudeau. God help us.
Or is it that politicians everywhere have always been less than they appear, but today nobody pretends otherwise?
I don't know if the international press collectively decided to pick on Segolene Royal, but every story I read about her was about her unpreparedness and her lack of knowledge of the world. I think there were two stories about her and her knowledge of Quebec, and it both cases she was duped and looked pretty dumb.
Sarkozy, on the other hand, just looks evil. He's a French Thatcher? Great.
Back at home, who do we have in the running? Justin Trudeau. God help us.
Saturday, May 05, 2007
Whilst pondering Facebook, it occurred to me that if I haven't seen somebody for 20 years there's probably a good reason for that.
I can count the people I haven't seen in 20 years that I would like to see again on the fingers of one hand and still have a few fingers left over.
I don't think Facebook is for misanthropes like me.
I can count the people I haven't seen in 20 years that I would like to see again on the fingers of one hand and still have a few fingers left over.
I don't think Facebook is for misanthropes like me.
I saved $5
by not going to the track. I would've bet on Tiago and lost.
The Queen had a great hat. I wonder if she bet on the race, and if so, how much? I guess she would send a servant to the window. I can't picture her queued up with the cigar smokers and beer drinkers waiting to bet.
Happy Cinco de Mayo to all my Mexican friends. Actually I don't think I have any Mexican friends. No amigos para mi.
The Queen had a great hat. I wonder if she bet on the race, and if so, how much? I guess she would send a servant to the window. I can't picture her queued up with the cigar smokers and beer drinkers waiting to bet.
Happy Cinco de Mayo to all my Mexican friends. Actually I don't think I have any Mexican friends. No amigos para mi.
Nature Invades, Part Deux
Ack. At 8:00 a.m., I open the back door to head out with my laundry basket and crash! bang! Two massive groundhogs go galloping past the neighbour's back door and through their yard. Holy crap! Where did they come from? This is insane.
Not natural.
You think my tulips have a hope in hell of living more than an hour? Fat chance.
Last night, walking home around 10, I encountered a raccoon. He was casually climbing a tree. I stopped and stared at him, foolishly expecting him to run away. But did he? Nope. Just looked at me with an expression that said: Can I help you with something? and went about his business.
I don't live in a distant suburb. I live in the city. This is very unusual.
What's happened to our neighbourhood skunks, I wonder. Them, I'm used to. I wonder if they've been turfed out by the groundhogs.
Not natural.
You think my tulips have a hope in hell of living more than an hour? Fat chance.
Last night, walking home around 10, I encountered a raccoon. He was casually climbing a tree. I stopped and stared at him, foolishly expecting him to run away. But did he? Nope. Just looked at me with an expression that said: Can I help you with something? and went about his business.
I don't live in a distant suburb. I live in the city. This is very unusual.
What's happened to our neighbourhood skunks, I wonder. Them, I'm used to. I wonder if they've been turfed out by the groundhogs.
Big Day Today
First: It's Kentucky Derby Day. I love the Triple Crown. I confess, however, that even though the track is only a 15-minute drive from my house, I can never be bothered to head over there to place a bet. I'm too lazy.
Why don't we have OTB at the local mall? Who do I contact about this?
Got a hankering for a Mint Julep and it's still early in the morning.
(I'm up so early on a Saturday because at 5:00 a.m. Mr. D. and the Big Red One decided that my bed was a NASCAR oval. After half an hour of their feline antics, I was wide awake. What a start to the weekend.)
Second: It's the Third Annual World Naked Gardening Day. Do what you want with this information. For me, I have a lot of raking and weed pulling to do today, but it's rather chilly and thus I am forced to undertake these activities fully clothed. Neighbourhood Peeping Toms breathe a sigh of relief.
Why don't we have OTB at the local mall? Who do I contact about this?
Got a hankering for a Mint Julep and it's still early in the morning.
(I'm up so early on a Saturday because at 5:00 a.m. Mr. D. and the Big Red One decided that my bed was a NASCAR oval. After half an hour of their feline antics, I was wide awake. What a start to the weekend.)
Second: It's the Third Annual World Naked Gardening Day. Do what you want with this information. For me, I have a lot of raking and weed pulling to do today, but it's rather chilly and thus I am forced to undertake these activities fully clothed. Neighbourhood Peeping Toms breathe a sigh of relief.
Friday, May 04, 2007
Help, Advice Please
Someone just added me as a friend to her Facebook page. What do I do?
Is joining Facebook a good thing? It's not anonymous, is it? You actually have to use your real name and particulars, I think.
I don't much like this person who added me. She's on the dragon boat team and I find her very annoying.
Is anybody on Facebook? Isn't it mainly for teenagers and college students?
Is joining Facebook a good thing? It's not anonymous, is it? You actually have to use your real name and particulars, I think.
I don't much like this person who added me. She's on the dragon boat team and I find her very annoying.
Is anybody on Facebook? Isn't it mainly for teenagers and college students?
Nature Invades
When I left the house this morning, there was a big groundhog sitting in the neighbour's driveway.
I thought it would run away when it saw me, but it didn't. It just sat there like it owned the place.
When did groundhogs get so uppity?
I thought it would run away when it saw me, but it didn't. It just sat there like it owned the place.
When did groundhogs get so uppity?
Spring, She has Sprung
"A man without land is nothing" -- Duddy Kravitz's grandfather.
"I can't believe how long the stupid grass is already." -- Me.
Indulge me while I whine:
But there was snow on the ground only 3 weeks ago!!
Last night as I surveyed that vast expanse known as my back yard, I thought I'd have to be mowing the stupid lawn, not this weekend, but next weekend for sure. This morning, I was checking it out again as I hung out the laundry. Now I'm thinking it can't wait until next weekend. It's already scary long.
There must be some lawn care rule that says when you live this far North you don't have to mow your lawn until after the Kentucky Derby. (Which means I can hold off until Sunday, I suppose. )
Another summer of endless thrills.
"I can't believe how long the stupid grass is already." -- Me.
Indulge me while I whine:
But there was snow on the ground only 3 weeks ago!!
Last night as I surveyed that vast expanse known as my back yard, I thought I'd have to be mowing the stupid lawn, not this weekend, but next weekend for sure. This morning, I was checking it out again as I hung out the laundry. Now I'm thinking it can't wait until next weekend. It's already scary long.
There must be some lawn care rule that says when you live this far North you don't have to mow your lawn until after the Kentucky Derby. (Which means I can hold off until Sunday, I suppose. )
Another summer of endless thrills.
Thursday, May 03, 2007
Waste
I’ve been meaning to write something profound (heh) for the past couple of weeks about squandered talent. This is tied, in some way, to the fact that no matter how drunk you may be at any given time, Shane MacGowan is, at that exact moment, more drunk than you are.
Shane is the exception to the rule that nobody wants to hear a drunk guy sing.
When The Pogues did their St. Paddy’s Day tour this year, there was an article about Shane in the New York Times and it made me sad. Any time I read anything about Shane, it makes me sad.
Because he squandered his talent.
There’s nothing romantic about having his abilities and, after a roaring start and a few good years, doing nothing with them. The rest of us, those of us who don’t have anything near these god-given skills, we’d love to have such talent. But we don’t.
When Shane kicks the bucket (Likely any time now, right? Or he could live to be 90. Whatever.) they better discover that his house is filled with stacks of note books full of unpublished unrecorded masterpieces. I have to know that he hasn’t been doing nothing but drinking for the past 20 years. I want tons of posthumous material from him. I want Nobel Prize-worthy poetry from him.
Better yet, of course, would be some brilliant new material, released while he’s still alive. But that ain’t gonna happen. And that’s sad.
Shane is the exception to the rule that nobody wants to hear a drunk guy sing.
When The Pogues did their St. Paddy’s Day tour this year, there was an article about Shane in the New York Times and it made me sad. Any time I read anything about Shane, it makes me sad.
Because he squandered his talent.
There’s nothing romantic about having his abilities and, after a roaring start and a few good years, doing nothing with them. The rest of us, those of us who don’t have anything near these god-given skills, we’d love to have such talent. But we don’t.
When Shane kicks the bucket (Likely any time now, right? Or he could live to be 90. Whatever.) they better discover that his house is filled with stacks of note books full of unpublished unrecorded masterpieces. I have to know that he hasn’t been doing nothing but drinking for the past 20 years. I want tons of posthumous material from him. I want Nobel Prize-worthy poetry from him.
Better yet, of course, would be some brilliant new material, released while he’s still alive. But that ain’t gonna happen. And that’s sad.
Romney is Weird
Republican candidate Mitt Romney said this week that his favourite novel is Battlefield Earth by L. Ron Hubbard.
Hmmm.
This man shouldn't ever be President, should he?
Hmmm.
This man shouldn't ever be President, should he?
Row, Row, Row Your Boat
I survived my first two Dragon Boat practices of the season. And I'm not even that sore. Thank you, Motrin.
Monday night was kind of cold and windy on The Olde Canal, but last evening was really beautiful.
This paddling business is trickier than it looks. I spend all my energy worrying about my "technique" which at the moment is non-existent, so I don't have any time to think about my "power" which is so non-existent it's rather pathetic.
It's all about the back muscles and the abs. I so desperately need a Body Toner Platinum Edition.
Last night we had to do 5 sets of 5 minutes each; with the first 4 minutes at 75% of strength and the final minute at 85%. Ha, I said. After those 4 minutes at 75%, you think there's anything left for the final push? Hardly. Then we get a 2-minute break before the next set. Those 2 minutes go by very quickly.
Monday night was kind of cold and windy on The Olde Canal, but last evening was really beautiful.
This paddling business is trickier than it looks. I spend all my energy worrying about my "technique" which at the moment is non-existent, so I don't have any time to think about my "power" which is so non-existent it's rather pathetic.
It's all about the back muscles and the abs. I so desperately need a Body Toner Platinum Edition.
Last night we had to do 5 sets of 5 minutes each; with the first 4 minutes at 75% of strength and the final minute at 85%. Ha, I said. After those 4 minutes at 75%, you think there's anything left for the final push? Hardly. Then we get a 2-minute break before the next set. Those 2 minutes go by very quickly.
I Got My Ticket
Going to see Bob again on the 4th of July. That'll be twice in 9 months!
That old man never tires, unlike yours truly.
That old man never tires, unlike yours truly.
Le Body Toner (Platinum Edition)
With the beach season soon to be upon us it's time to start toning up. So even if you don't understand a word of French, this week's Tete A Claques is worth watching. It's about 50% in English anyway. (Click on the link.)
C'est amazing! C'est beautiful!
C'est amazing! C'est beautiful!
Wednesday, May 02, 2007
Tuesday, May 01, 2007
Today in Sunburn News
I have discovered that a metal leading ruler makes a fantastic back-scratcher.
Oh what a relief it is.
Oh what a relief it is.
Life is a SitCom
While I was on vacation, one of my colleagues retired. We have the same first name. (Yes, she's also named Nanuk!)
They had a small going-away lunch for her and sent out a general e-mail message to the whole organization saying that anyone who wanted to could drop in and say good-bye.
A man on our floor who didn't realize there were two women with the same name in this department assumed I was leaving and he apparently showed up with a nice going-away present for...Nanuk.
When he arrived and asked where Nanuk was, he was steered over to this woman he had rarely spoken to and, cornered, realized he had to give her this gift. She was surprised and delighted. He was just surprised.
I wish I had been there.
They had a small going-away lunch for her and sent out a general e-mail message to the whole organization saying that anyone who wanted to could drop in and say good-bye.
A man on our floor who didn't realize there were two women with the same name in this department assumed I was leaving and he apparently showed up with a nice going-away present for...Nanuk.
When he arrived and asked where Nanuk was, he was steered over to this woman he had rarely spoken to and, cornered, realized he had to give her this gift. She was surprised and delighted. He was just surprised.
I wish I had been there.
Fly like an eagle...to the sea
I know that technically this picture doesn't prove anything, but you'll have to take my word for it I am on the left and my nephew is on the right.
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