Being away from my beloved news sources for a few days has left me a little overwhelmed. What's interesting is that no one really made news--events happened and were reported. Paulson being named treasury secretary is only news because he was reluctant to take the job in the first place. Though he has supported Bush's tax cuts, Paulson is also an environmentalist and a big fan of balanced budgets. One of my favorite quotes from the Post's piece:
"Paulson's nomination comes as the economy is exhibiting robust growth and strength, but also some troubling signs. While the economy grew at its fastest rate in 2 1/2 years during the first quarter of 2006 and unemployment remains low, public opinion polls show that a majority of Americans think the economy is in fair or poor shape. Rising gasoline prices and a median household income that, adjusted for inflation, has fallen during the Bush years have fanned public anxiety."
Economic policy is definitely not my forte, but what robust growth and strength are they talking about? Wall Street feels shaky, we have a ballooning deficit, and where exactly is unemployment remaining low? Obviously my perception of the economy is completely colored by my geographical location. Western Michigan is troubled. My town just lost yet another 300 jobs. I know at least 6 people who are unemployed or underemployed. I need Fatty to explain this all to me over some beers because I don't get it.
I hesitate to delve too far into Haditha. The investigation is still ongoing and it looks like no one's going to get away with whatever happened. Thus far it looks like the Marines were retaliating for the death of a lance corporal that was killed in a roadside bomb attack. You know what's really hard? Of course it wrong. Of course they should be charged. Of course I'm angry and upset that according to my Commander in Chief they are they to spread democracy and instead they murder innocent civilians. But this is what happens in a war. This is the reality. And it's even more likely to happen in a war with no clear-cut objectives and no real end in sight. "Spreading democracy" is a great soundbite. It's not a good war plan.
In case anyone forgot, we're still stationed in Afghanistan. No one seems to really know what happened in the truck accident. "Ruffians blamed in Afghan riots" is one of my favorite headlines. Though "U.S. pleads self-defense in Afghan riots" is a good one too. USA Today comes out with "Brakes blamed for crash..." though last I heard that was still uncertain. Regardless, it doesn't look good. Anti-American sentiment is running high. Brakes or reckless driving--either one leaves the U.S. in a public relations nightmare. Plus, you know, there's that whole 12 people dead and over 100 injured thing.
I'm done for the time being. If I'm feeling especially moved or bored I may post again especially given that this is it for a week. I'm not sure if anyone can truly appreciate just how desperately needed this little work-respite is for me. Not only will I not be at work, I'll be out of Holland for a few days at a delightful cottage right on the Lake. The BIG Lake. Without cellphone service...and no internet...and no news...
Oh my God.
What have I done?
Wednesday, May 31, 2006
Tuesday, May 30, 2006
i was supposed to title this something specific but of course i forgot what it was so here's a shout-out for remembering that much at least
Wowie.
It was a weekend.
Mesick was superfantastically delicious. And when I say delicious I mean I ate gooey, yummy brie with roasted red peppers and fresh herbs. I ate morel mushrooms that had been breaded and fried. I drank bloody beers (a suprisingly refreshing concoction of beer, tomato juice, hot sauce, salsa and ice. It was good. Really) and plain old PBRs which tend to taste even better when consumed around a fire. I learned that just because you're camping doesn't mean you can't bring goat cheese and fresh basil. I learned that hobo pies and/or pudgie pies can be made with anything. I learned that in the end, it all comes back to cheese. There were dogs and little girls and Hallmark pictures. So many conversations started with "Oh I heard this thing on NPR last week." Vice magazine was either hilariously funny, horrifically offensive, or just plain perplexing. There were Oprah-esque moments between the womenfolk. The acronym for gorp was agonized over (good old raisins and peanuts or granola oats raisins and peanuts, according to wikipedia). A guitar was played and some John Prine was sung. A ginormous storm came through on Saturday night whilst all slept and the magical fire was still going the next morning. Though items were sodden, spirits were not. We drove home on M-37 which runs through the Manistee Forest and I was so blissed out and happy and contented.
It was a weekend.
I returned home to a clean apartment and a happy-to-see-me cat. I spent Monday relaxing and drinking some beers with me neighbor in his swelteringly hot apartment. We were rescued from the heat and made a trek to the Sandbar to watch the Pistons game in air conditioning with Shadetree, Veldman, and the infamous Budde. The Pistons lost but I had a swell time hanging out with the guys despite 2 bouts of hiccups.
I'm looking forward to my upcoming vacation with the parental units. The cottage in Shelby is going to be divine. Less than 10 hours of work to go...
It was a weekend.
Mesick was superfantastically delicious. And when I say delicious I mean I ate gooey, yummy brie with roasted red peppers and fresh herbs. I ate morel mushrooms that had been breaded and fried. I drank bloody beers (a suprisingly refreshing concoction of beer, tomato juice, hot sauce, salsa and ice. It was good. Really) and plain old PBRs which tend to taste even better when consumed around a fire. I learned that just because you're camping doesn't mean you can't bring goat cheese and fresh basil. I learned that hobo pies and/or pudgie pies can be made with anything. I learned that in the end, it all comes back to cheese. There were dogs and little girls and Hallmark pictures. So many conversations started with "Oh I heard this thing on NPR last week." Vice magazine was either hilariously funny, horrifically offensive, or just plain perplexing. There were Oprah-esque moments between the womenfolk. The acronym for gorp was agonized over (good old raisins and peanuts or granola oats raisins and peanuts, according to wikipedia). A guitar was played and some John Prine was sung. A ginormous storm came through on Saturday night whilst all slept and the magical fire was still going the next morning. Though items were sodden, spirits were not. We drove home on M-37 which runs through the Manistee Forest and I was so blissed out and happy and contented.
It was a weekend.
I returned home to a clean apartment and a happy-to-see-me cat. I spent Monday relaxing and drinking some beers with me neighbor in his swelteringly hot apartment. We were rescued from the heat and made a trek to the Sandbar to watch the Pistons game in air conditioning with Shadetree, Veldman, and the infamous Budde. The Pistons lost but I had a swell time hanging out with the guys despite 2 bouts of hiccups.
I'm looking forward to my upcoming vacation with the parental units. The cottage in Shelby is going to be divine. Less than 10 hours of work to go...
Thursday, May 25, 2006
"one of the penalties for refusing to participate in politics is that you end up being governed by your inferiors." plato
It's looking like the Jefferson affair wasn't actually unconstitutional. The Post has a good article about the legal ramifications.
Ask and ye shall receive.
In other Isn't-It-Nice-To-See-Congress-Embroiled-In-Various-Financial-Scandals, the Speaker of the House is being accused by ABC of being investigated in connection with the Abramoff scandal. Making this more fuzzy and weird is that the Justice Department, normally a pretty tight-lipped operation, is actually coming out and saying that they are indeed not investigating Hastert. It was leaked hours after Hastert came out against the raid on Jefferson. Retaliation mayhaps?
And finally, John McCain returned $20,000 in political contributions from a family under investigation for unlawful use of offshore tax shelters.
Campaign finance reform and ethics abuses? Anyone want to jump on those for 2006?
Oh wait, everyone would be a hypocrite!
Darth Cheney possibly testifying in the Libby trial isn't going to go anywhere. He will not be indicted nor will Rove. Libby will take the fall like a good little chief of staff. It's what they do.
G.W.B. appointed a new top domestic policy advisor (he's replacing a dude who stepped down after being charged with stealing more than $5000 in a phony refund scheme) Zinsmeister spent the last 12 years as editor in chief of American Enterprise magazine where he routinely praised Wal-mart and enjoyed waxing poetic about the importance of religion in bonding communities. He sounds swell, doesn't he? Actually, my favorite quote is one about Iraq:
"What the establishment media covering Iraq have utterly failed to make clear today is this central reality: With the exception of periodic flare-ups in isolated corners, our struggle in Iraq as warfare is over," Zinsmeister wrote in his column last June. "Egregious acts of terror will continue -- in Iraq as in many other parts of the world. But there is now no chance whatever of the U.S. losing this critical guerrilla war."
He's going to fit right into the administration with that ability to completely ignore reality.
In the one bit of news that actually makes me have hope, Lay and Skilling were found guilty and face 20-30 years in prison. I never thought they'd be convicted. The appeals will be plentiful, but it's a start. If you haven't seen Enron--The Smartest Guys in the Room, I strongly recommend it.
This is it for a few days. I'm off to the lovely vacation destination known as Mesick until sometime Monday. Forget about the lack of showering and the lack of fresh produce. How am I going to live without News Hour, NPR, the LA Times, The Washington Post, and the NY Times?!?!?
Ask and ye shall receive.
In other Isn't-It-Nice-To-See-Congress-Embroiled-In-Various-Financial-Scandals, the Speaker of the House is being accused by ABC of being investigated in connection with the Abramoff scandal. Making this more fuzzy and weird is that the Justice Department, normally a pretty tight-lipped operation, is actually coming out and saying that they are indeed not investigating Hastert. It was leaked hours after Hastert came out against the raid on Jefferson. Retaliation mayhaps?
And finally, John McCain returned $20,000 in political contributions from a family under investigation for unlawful use of offshore tax shelters.
Campaign finance reform and ethics abuses? Anyone want to jump on those for 2006?
Oh wait, everyone would be a hypocrite!
Darth Cheney possibly testifying in the Libby trial isn't going to go anywhere. He will not be indicted nor will Rove. Libby will take the fall like a good little chief of staff. It's what they do.
G.W.B. appointed a new top domestic policy advisor (he's replacing a dude who stepped down after being charged with stealing more than $5000 in a phony refund scheme) Zinsmeister spent the last 12 years as editor in chief of American Enterprise magazine where he routinely praised Wal-mart and enjoyed waxing poetic about the importance of religion in bonding communities. He sounds swell, doesn't he? Actually, my favorite quote is one about Iraq:
"What the establishment media covering Iraq have utterly failed to make clear today is this central reality: With the exception of periodic flare-ups in isolated corners, our struggle in Iraq as warfare is over," Zinsmeister wrote in his column last June. "Egregious acts of terror will continue -- in Iraq as in many other parts of the world. But there is now no chance whatever of the U.S. losing this critical guerrilla war."
He's going to fit right into the administration with that ability to completely ignore reality.
In the one bit of news that actually makes me have hope, Lay and Skilling were found guilty and face 20-30 years in prison. I never thought they'd be convicted. The appeals will be plentiful, but it's a start. If you haven't seen Enron--The Smartest Guys in the Room, I strongly recommend it.
This is it for a few days. I'm off to the lovely vacation destination known as Mesick until sometime Monday. Forget about the lack of showering and the lack of fresh produce. How am I going to live without News Hour, NPR, the LA Times, The Washington Post, and the NY Times?!?!?
Wednesday, May 24, 2006
my mojo dispenser is broken
My mojo is obviously working overtime leaving me swamped with multiple social offers. Guess what? Attempting to please everyone doesn't work. Everyone ends up feeling slighted. I end up feeling like a horrible friend. And confidentially, gentle reader, I really just want to be alone without something to do for one night.
I'm still pretty unsure what the heck is going on with this whole Jefferson affair. I get a little nervous any time the term "constitutional crisis" is thrown around. It'd be nice if someone would spell this whole situation out to me. From the allegations of accepting bribes for political returns to the vast difference of opinions between the FBI and Congress over whether or not the search and seizure was illegal. The media is being completely unhelpful at explaining what's going on. Am I supposed to be outraged that the FBI unconstitutionally seized evidence? Or should I be outraged that a Democratic Congressman traded political favors for money?
I'm going camping this weekend. I'll be sleeping with bugs and dirt and I'll smell like campfire for 3 days.
It's going to be just like being at home.
I'm still pretty unsure what the heck is going on with this whole Jefferson affair. I get a little nervous any time the term "constitutional crisis" is thrown around. It'd be nice if someone would spell this whole situation out to me. From the allegations of accepting bribes for political returns to the vast difference of opinions between the FBI and Congress over whether or not the search and seizure was illegal. The media is being completely unhelpful at explaining what's going on. Am I supposed to be outraged that the FBI unconstitutionally seized evidence? Or should I be outraged that a Democratic Congressman traded political favors for money?
I'm going camping this weekend. I'll be sleeping with bugs and dirt and I'll smell like campfire for 3 days.
It's going to be just like being at home.
Tuesday, May 23, 2006
my mood affected my pinball game. not. good.
A foul mood temporarily sullied my evening last night. I've made almost a full recovery though I'm still feeling fairly contemplative. I got all kinds of angry about the lack of coverage on the Gaza Strip last night. My beloved News Hour gave it a brief mention sandwiched between the increasing violence in Afghanistan and an interesting piece about just how bad things have gotten in Iraq despite the recent Cabinet announcements. The Iraq news is so insignificant I can't even find a link. Jesus. I just read that the House voted to deny even more aid to the Palestinians because nothing quells violence quite like empty stomachs and unpaid government workers. And Hayden's nomination is moving to the full Senate. 12-3 was the final tally. There are 8 Republicans and 7 Democrats on the committee. Wyden (D) and Feingold (D) confirmed that they were 2 of the 3 no votes. Way to go party unity and for sticking up for your constituents constitutional rights by confirming the man behind the phone-trolling. And way to go America for once again not caring.
Mayhaps that foul mood hath not left me.
Thankfully, Married to the Sea came up with one just for me today: socially irresponsible.
I'm making the trek home today on foot. And I'm going to do something really, really dangerous. I'm going to read and walk. This has become one of my favorite pleasures since the weather has become so nice. It reminds me of the years I spent as a child with my nose in the latest Ramona book as I aimlessly wandered about. No Ramona today, though. I just got Scrolling Forward: Making Sense of Documents in the Digital Age by David Levy.
Just in case you were still unsure whether or not I am a complete geek.
Mayhaps that foul mood hath not left me.
Thankfully, Married to the Sea came up with one just for me today: socially irresponsible.
I'm making the trek home today on foot. And I'm going to do something really, really dangerous. I'm going to read and walk. This has become one of my favorite pleasures since the weather has become so nice. It reminds me of the years I spent as a child with my nose in the latest Ramona book as I aimlessly wandered about. No Ramona today, though. I just got Scrolling Forward: Making Sense of Documents in the Digital Age by David Levy.
Just in case you were still unsure whether or not I am a complete geek.
Monday, May 22, 2006
who are you calling a hypocrite?
T'was quite a weekend.
Friday night was a loooong night at the Sandbar. We arrived earlier than usual to watch the Pistons' game--an activity that proved anxiety-ridden. The rest of the evening was spent with some nice strangers and an encounter with a long-coveted object of affection who turned out to be painfully uninteresting. Saturday night the K-Zoo contingent arrived. Despite the sodden conditions, most of us were able to rally around the Crown Royale and salvage the evening. An enormous thanks to my front-house neighbor for being The Hostess Extraordinarie and to my 2 favorite men for providing much needed entertainment. Sunday I was only able to muster enough enthusiasm to drag myself upstairs for Game 7. I'm pleased at the Detroit win but I'm mostly glad that I won't have to spend the rest of the playoffs listening to people talk about the brilliance of LeBron James. I get it. He's really good. Now shut up and let's play some basketball already.
The White House is looking toward midterm elections for their moment of salvation as the President's approval ratings continue to slide. Immigration, tax cuts, and national security are the way things are shaping up. Yeesh. I wouldn't put immigration front and center especially given that members of their own party aren't buying their plan, but okay Karl Rove. You're the evil genius. Bush's "Iraq first" strategy could also prove problematic given that Iraq is a big old mess though he really only needs the perception of security to win on that issue. And as long as American deaths don't continue to rise no one really seems to care about the increasing violence and instability. Actually his biggest problem won't be issue-based, but rather the apathy and increasing frustration of members of the Republican Party. Despite the administration's attempts at winning back the right, a half-hearted push for a gay marriage amendment that everyone knows is going to fail isn't going to be enough to energize them. They, rightly so, feel abandoned by a White House that needed them to get elected, but have done nothing to push their agenda. Who would have thought 4 years ago in the post 9/11 political environment that G.W.B. and the Republican Party would be in so much trouble? I remain cautiously optimistic of the Democrats chances this fall. Cautious primarily due to the public's inability to actually care. And cautious because all it'll take is capturing Bin Laden or another terrorist attack on American soil to swing things back to their side.
The talking heads are saying McCain vs. Hillary for 2008.
I say give me 2 candidates with integrity and convictions as opposed to 2 career politicians who'll water down their positions for votes. And no one better turn this into a feminist thing. Voting for Hillary because she has a shot at being the first woman president is no better than NOT voting for Hillary because you don't believe women can handle the job. I don't like her. Anybody who climbs in bed with Rupert Murdoch is someone I don't trust.
Off to update my profile on MySpace!
Friday night was a loooong night at the Sandbar. We arrived earlier than usual to watch the Pistons' game--an activity that proved anxiety-ridden. The rest of the evening was spent with some nice strangers and an encounter with a long-coveted object of affection who turned out to be painfully uninteresting. Saturday night the K-Zoo contingent arrived. Despite the sodden conditions, most of us were able to rally around the Crown Royale and salvage the evening. An enormous thanks to my front-house neighbor for being The Hostess Extraordinarie and to my 2 favorite men for providing much needed entertainment. Sunday I was only able to muster enough enthusiasm to drag myself upstairs for Game 7. I'm pleased at the Detroit win but I'm mostly glad that I won't have to spend the rest of the playoffs listening to people talk about the brilliance of LeBron James. I get it. He's really good. Now shut up and let's play some basketball already.
The White House is looking toward midterm elections for their moment of salvation as the President's approval ratings continue to slide. Immigration, tax cuts, and national security are the way things are shaping up. Yeesh. I wouldn't put immigration front and center especially given that members of their own party aren't buying their plan, but okay Karl Rove. You're the evil genius. Bush's "Iraq first" strategy could also prove problematic given that Iraq is a big old mess though he really only needs the perception of security to win on that issue. And as long as American deaths don't continue to rise no one really seems to care about the increasing violence and instability. Actually his biggest problem won't be issue-based, but rather the apathy and increasing frustration of members of the Republican Party. Despite the administration's attempts at winning back the right, a half-hearted push for a gay marriage amendment that everyone knows is going to fail isn't going to be enough to energize them. They, rightly so, feel abandoned by a White House that needed them to get elected, but have done nothing to push their agenda. Who would have thought 4 years ago in the post 9/11 political environment that G.W.B. and the Republican Party would be in so much trouble? I remain cautiously optimistic of the Democrats chances this fall. Cautious primarily due to the public's inability to actually care. And cautious because all it'll take is capturing Bin Laden or another terrorist attack on American soil to swing things back to their side.
The talking heads are saying McCain vs. Hillary for 2008.
I say give me 2 candidates with integrity and convictions as opposed to 2 career politicians who'll water down their positions for votes. And no one better turn this into a feminist thing. Voting for Hillary because she has a shot at being the first woman president is no better than NOT voting for Hillary because you don't believe women can handle the job. I don't like her. Anybody who climbs in bed with Rupert Murdoch is someone I don't trust.
Off to update my profile on MySpace!
Friday, May 19, 2006
Guess what?
It's Friday.
I just returned from an excellent lunch with Gleis and Co. A tasty goat cheese concoction was accompanied by a Stella and conversation as if no time had passed. I miss him. He not only made my job tolerable, he actually made it fun. There were numerous people who attempted to hone in on that shit, but I'm glad the 3 of us stuck to the plan. We needed it to be the original posse.
Hayden's going to get confirmed. The Democrats took the administration's bait and hook move of letting the Intelligence Committees in on the NSA thing the day before the hearings began leaving them with little else but some snappy soundbites. This is going to make it harder to be outraged about the domestic spying issue as Hayden said he was in on the whole idea. I don't know if I'm just tired or what but I'm having a hard time mustering outrage about this. I guess because something that was going to be a big old fight once again got deflated by typical political maneuvering. Alito...Roberts...WMDS...the Patriot Act...it's okay to be outraged, just don't do anything about it.
The Senate is going to pass an immigration bill that most likely doesn't stand a chance in hell of remaining intact once it hits the House. My favorite amendments thus far are the ridiculously silly, completely symbolic (though symbolic of what I'm not sure) language ones. One declared English to be the national language of the U.S. The other deemed English the "common and unifying language." Way to waste some time on 2 useless and covoluted amendments that cancel each other out.
I have obviously been spending entirely too much time concerned about insignificant issues like CIA confirmations and Ramadi and immigration as I somehow missed Britney's announcement that she's pregnant again!!!!! Prince Caspian isn't going to be released until '08!!!!! Nicole Kidman is engaged to a country singer!!!!! And Tyra Banks is racist!!!!! (That last one's from Slate. God, I love Slate for writing an article connected with America's Next Top Model--one of the best shows on television. Hands down.)
Anyone feel like being shallow and pop culture-y soon?
I'm down.
It's Friday.
I just returned from an excellent lunch with Gleis and Co. A tasty goat cheese concoction was accompanied by a Stella and conversation as if no time had passed. I miss him. He not only made my job tolerable, he actually made it fun. There were numerous people who attempted to hone in on that shit, but I'm glad the 3 of us stuck to the plan. We needed it to be the original posse.
Hayden's going to get confirmed. The Democrats took the administration's bait and hook move of letting the Intelligence Committees in on the NSA thing the day before the hearings began leaving them with little else but some snappy soundbites. This is going to make it harder to be outraged about the domestic spying issue as Hayden said he was in on the whole idea. I don't know if I'm just tired or what but I'm having a hard time mustering outrage about this. I guess because something that was going to be a big old fight once again got deflated by typical political maneuvering. Alito...Roberts...WMDS...the Patriot Act...it's okay to be outraged, just don't do anything about it.
The Senate is going to pass an immigration bill that most likely doesn't stand a chance in hell of remaining intact once it hits the House. My favorite amendments thus far are the ridiculously silly, completely symbolic (though symbolic of what I'm not sure) language ones. One declared English to be the national language of the U.S. The other deemed English the "common and unifying language." Way to waste some time on 2 useless and covoluted amendments that cancel each other out.
I have obviously been spending entirely too much time concerned about insignificant issues like CIA confirmations and Ramadi and immigration as I somehow missed Britney's announcement that she's pregnant again!!!!! Prince Caspian isn't going to be released until '08!!!!! Nicole Kidman is engaged to a country singer!!!!! And Tyra Banks is racist!!!!! (That last one's from Slate. God, I love Slate for writing an article connected with America's Next Top Model--one of the best shows on television. Hands down.)
Anyone feel like being shallow and pop culture-y soon?
I'm down.
Thursday, May 18, 2006
and this is the year i decide to care about the nba?!?
I'm going to wait on Hayden's testimony. And the Spector vs Feingold smackdown. And the 2.8 trillion dollar budget the House passed. And the 1.9 million G.W.B. just asked Congress for border security. I'm tired and I've been busy today with pointless meetings and scrambling to meet deadlines. Work is so bothersome and is always getting in the way of my oh-so-important blogging.
A monumental event occurred last night. I took Berghoef in a 3-game tournament 2 to 1--and both times I not only reached Jedi Youth status, I surpassed 40 million points. I also managed to beat him in an exhibition game despite him having 2 games to my 1. I honestly don't know how it all happened. I didn't feel as though I was playing especially well, nor did it feel as though he was playing especially badly. Regardless, I think we were both a little stunned. It's almost as if I was the Cavaliers and he was the Pistons. It was that HUGE.
I'm going to have a swell kick-off to my weekend. Gleis is descending on Holland for lunch tomorrow bringing the gang back together to relive old times only there won't be the post-lunch hilarity of watching him from across the building try and hold it together even though he only had one beer. I'm not certain yet what the rest of the weekend will bring. Friday night is do or die for the Pistons, but I'd be watching without the world's biggest fan as he's going to be at the My Morning Jacket concert (technically, it's Pearl Jam, but I like to call it the My Morning Jacket concert). Rumor has it Raleigh may be making an appearance though it was hinted mayhaps sans the ball and chain might be nice for the boys. There was talk of dressing up pretty and going out to consume girly drinks Saturday but we're awaiting the outcome of a feverish baby to make that decision. And a contingent from K-Zoo is supposedly heading north for a night though no one knows exactly when.
No matter what I'm determined to have BIG F-U-N.
Just you watch me.
A monumental event occurred last night. I took Berghoef in a 3-game tournament 2 to 1--and both times I not only reached Jedi Youth status, I surpassed 40 million points. I also managed to beat him in an exhibition game despite him having 2 games to my 1. I honestly don't know how it all happened. I didn't feel as though I was playing especially well, nor did it feel as though he was playing especially badly. Regardless, I think we were both a little stunned. It's almost as if I was the Cavaliers and he was the Pistons. It was that HUGE.
I'm going to have a swell kick-off to my weekend. Gleis is descending on Holland for lunch tomorrow bringing the gang back together to relive old times only there won't be the post-lunch hilarity of watching him from across the building try and hold it together even though he only had one beer. I'm not certain yet what the rest of the weekend will bring. Friday night is do or die for the Pistons, but I'd be watching without the world's biggest fan as he's going to be at the My Morning Jacket concert (technically, it's Pearl Jam, but I like to call it the My Morning Jacket concert). Rumor has it Raleigh may be making an appearance though it was hinted mayhaps sans the ball and chain might be nice for the boys. There was talk of dressing up pretty and going out to consume girly drinks Saturday but we're awaiting the outcome of a feverish baby to make that decision. And a contingent from K-Zoo is supposedly heading north for a night though no one knows exactly when.
No matter what I'm determined to have BIG F-U-N.
Just you watch me.
Wednesday, May 17, 2006
not glaciers, not years of erosion, but glacial lake missoula bursting through an ice dam formed the scablands
More people should watch NOVA.
Really.
It's not that geeky.
It was a nice try, but it looks like G.W.B. was unable to secure the political capital he wanted post-speech. I did not end up watching it (did anyone actually watch it?!?), but I did read the transcript online. Aside from the obvious wacky ideas (biometric technology identification cards, anyone?) and the typical keep America safe rhetoric, I actually stand back incredulous that G.W.B. insists on a guest worker program despite key members of his own party being completely opposed to it. Ready to be shocked? I think he's right. I think politically speaking in a mid-term election year that is shaping up to be quite a fight, he's right to court the Hispanic vote that was essential to him being re-elected in 2004. Members of his own party are being short-sighted and foolish to ignore the fastest growing population in the U.S. That being said, how's about the Democrats come up with a creative and fair solution to a complicated and heated social issue instead of sitting back and enjoying the Republicans Fall Apart Show? I have yet to hear a plan from either side that is workable and humane. The iron is smoking hot.
I'd guess the administration's decision to brief the Intelligence Committees of the House and Senate has to do with increasing reluctance to green light Hayden as the head of the CIA. I wouldn't sit around with bated breath in anticipation of any real revelations as a result of this move. Hayden's confirmation hearings are set to start tomorrow and the White House needed a pre-emptive strike to pave the way for a yes vote. They need a win and the American public doesn't seem to be too concerned about the major conflict of interest by putting him in that role. Plus, you can bet those on the receiving end of information will be instructed to keep their mouths shut. The appearance of disclosure to Congress will probably be enough to placate the already apathetic public.
NewsHour last night had an excellent piece about Iraq. Judy Woodruff interviewed NYT reporter Sabrina Tavernise. It's worth listening to. After having watched my local and network news which completely ignored Iraq, it was nice to hear an indepth report on just how much of a mess it is over there. I don't have the exact stats (it's mentioned in the piece), but even though Iraq is rapidly leaving our headlines, the morgues are more packed than ever. Last April the Baghdad morgue reported around 500 bodies. This April they reported 1000. Unlike last year where spectacular suicide bombings and foreign insurgents were being blamed for the violence, the current problem is all sectarian. Sunnis and Shia and Kurds are literally shooting each other in the streets. By removing Hussein from power we have unleashed what will no doubt end in full out Civil War. Everyone remains optimistic that the announcement of Cabinet nominations this weekend will tame the violence, but I'll be surprised if politics can save this. And the winner is: no one.
On a personal note, my parents are coming for a visit!!!! I'm deliriously excited with anticipation of mornings spent in pajamas drinking vast quantities of good, strong coffee! I'm bursting with joy of thoughts of a few days at a cottage up north and a trip to Traverse City! I cannot wait to go running with my Dad and yarn shopping with my Mom! There will be baked goods bestowed on many! Maple syrup will rain down upon heads! My favorite beer will be consumed as will really really really good wine! And most importantly, I get to spend an entire week free of work with two of my favorite people in the world.
There will be no blogging from June1-June 7.
Go read some real political analysis, people, not just the ravings of a junkie with too many strong opinions.
Really.
It's not that geeky.
It was a nice try, but it looks like G.W.B. was unable to secure the political capital he wanted post-speech. I did not end up watching it (did anyone actually watch it?!?), but I did read the transcript online. Aside from the obvious wacky ideas (biometric technology identification cards, anyone?) and the typical keep America safe rhetoric, I actually stand back incredulous that G.W.B. insists on a guest worker program despite key members of his own party being completely opposed to it. Ready to be shocked? I think he's right. I think politically speaking in a mid-term election year that is shaping up to be quite a fight, he's right to court the Hispanic vote that was essential to him being re-elected in 2004. Members of his own party are being short-sighted and foolish to ignore the fastest growing population in the U.S. That being said, how's about the Democrats come up with a creative and fair solution to a complicated and heated social issue instead of sitting back and enjoying the Republicans Fall Apart Show? I have yet to hear a plan from either side that is workable and humane. The iron is smoking hot.
I'd guess the administration's decision to brief the Intelligence Committees of the House and Senate has to do with increasing reluctance to green light Hayden as the head of the CIA. I wouldn't sit around with bated breath in anticipation of any real revelations as a result of this move. Hayden's confirmation hearings are set to start tomorrow and the White House needed a pre-emptive strike to pave the way for a yes vote. They need a win and the American public doesn't seem to be too concerned about the major conflict of interest by putting him in that role. Plus, you can bet those on the receiving end of information will be instructed to keep their mouths shut. The appearance of disclosure to Congress will probably be enough to placate the already apathetic public.
NewsHour last night had an excellent piece about Iraq. Judy Woodruff interviewed NYT reporter Sabrina Tavernise. It's worth listening to. After having watched my local and network news which completely ignored Iraq, it was nice to hear an indepth report on just how much of a mess it is over there. I don't have the exact stats (it's mentioned in the piece), but even though Iraq is rapidly leaving our headlines, the morgues are more packed than ever. Last April the Baghdad morgue reported around 500 bodies. This April they reported 1000. Unlike last year where spectacular suicide bombings and foreign insurgents were being blamed for the violence, the current problem is all sectarian. Sunnis and Shia and Kurds are literally shooting each other in the streets. By removing Hussein from power we have unleashed what will no doubt end in full out Civil War. Everyone remains optimistic that the announcement of Cabinet nominations this weekend will tame the violence, but I'll be surprised if politics can save this. And the winner is: no one.
On a personal note, my parents are coming for a visit!!!! I'm deliriously excited with anticipation of mornings spent in pajamas drinking vast quantities of good, strong coffee! I'm bursting with joy of thoughts of a few days at a cottage up north and a trip to Traverse City! I cannot wait to go running with my Dad and yarn shopping with my Mom! There will be baked goods bestowed on many! Maple syrup will rain down upon heads! My favorite beer will be consumed as will really really really good wine! And most importantly, I get to spend an entire week free of work with two of my favorite people in the world.
There will be no blogging from June1-June 7.
Go read some real political analysis, people, not just the ravings of a junkie with too many strong opinions.
Monday, May 15, 2006
grapevines just make everything more confusing and tangled. i hate grapevines.
My morning began with me knocking over a large mug of coffee into a basket of yarn.
Happy Monday to me.
Co-Worker: "Are you going to be glued to the t.v. tonight?"
Me: "Uh...watching Game 4 of the Pistons series?"
Co-Worker: "The President's addressing the nation about immigration."
Me: "The President is scrambling to reassure a very nervous Republican Party that he is not a complete failure as Commander in Chief and is attempting to appear as though he has real solutions to the immigration issue by using an already strapped National Guard--whose job, by the way, should have nothing to do with patrolling the Mexican border--to make the Democrats look weak on terrorism all the while reminding the public that he's doing all he can to keep them safe by confusing 2 political issues that are too complicated for the majority of Americans to be bothered to figure out what their position is on their own. I think I'm going to watch the Pistons game."
A new poll says that more Americans are starting to be concerned about the NSA database. G.W.B. should effectively remind everyone tonight that his number one priority is keeping 'merica safe by securin' the borders thereby ensuring people will forget they should be outraged.
That poor disenfranchised, underrepresented, minority faction of the Republican Party the Christian Conservatives are furious that G.W.B. hasn't signed a Constitutional Amendment banning gay marriage nor has he bothered to even really give it the old college try to repeal Roe v. Wade leaving them threatening to go shopping for a new party this fall. Yippee, I say. Go find yourself a party that'll cater to a bunch of completely-missing-the-point "Christians" that enjoy discrimination, saving fetuses, and banning naughty pictures and words.
And it looks like we've got ourselves a new friend in Libya. It's nice to see us all getting along so well. I'm sure we didn't threaten to take their lunch money or beat them up during recess unless they did what we wanted them to do in order to make that happen. Nor did we scare the pants off them by invading a sovereign nation that we weren't happy with.
I'm so glad we're giving peace a chance.
Happy Monday to me.
Co-Worker: "Are you going to be glued to the t.v. tonight?"
Me: "Uh...watching Game 4 of the Pistons series?"
Co-Worker: "The President's addressing the nation about immigration."
Me: "The President is scrambling to reassure a very nervous Republican Party that he is not a complete failure as Commander in Chief and is attempting to appear as though he has real solutions to the immigration issue by using an already strapped National Guard--whose job, by the way, should have nothing to do with patrolling the Mexican border--to make the Democrats look weak on terrorism all the while reminding the public that he's doing all he can to keep them safe by confusing 2 political issues that are too complicated for the majority of Americans to be bothered to figure out what their position is on their own. I think I'm going to watch the Pistons game."
A new poll says that more Americans are starting to be concerned about the NSA database. G.W.B. should effectively remind everyone tonight that his number one priority is keeping 'merica safe by securin' the borders thereby ensuring people will forget they should be outraged.
That poor disenfranchised, underrepresented, minority faction of the Republican Party the Christian Conservatives are furious that G.W.B. hasn't signed a Constitutional Amendment banning gay marriage nor has he bothered to even really give it the old college try to repeal Roe v. Wade leaving them threatening to go shopping for a new party this fall. Yippee, I say. Go find yourself a party that'll cater to a bunch of completely-missing-the-point "Christians" that enjoy discrimination, saving fetuses, and banning naughty pictures and words.
And it looks like we've got ourselves a new friend in Libya. It's nice to see us all getting along so well. I'm sure we didn't threaten to take their lunch money or beat them up during recess unless they did what we wanted them to do in order to make that happen. Nor did we scare the pants off them by invading a sovereign nation that we weren't happy with.
I'm so glad we're giving peace a chance.
Friday, May 12, 2006
warning: read at your own risk
Clearly I over-reacted yesterday about the NSA phone-trolling business as it appears 2/3 of the American people don't give a goddamn that their civil liberties are being violated.
Or I was right on about just how apathetic people can be.
Somewhere between 150-200 people were killed in Nigeria today when an oil pipeline exploded. Individuals attempting to siphon fuel appear to be responsible. And how misleading was that last sentence? Despite Nigeria being an oil rich country, 60% of the population remains below the poverty level. (Check it out: I just linked to a CIA site!) Big oil companies continue to make big profits while locals suffer.
"This is caused by hunger and greed. If you've got no job and you're hungry you take advantage of anything to feed your family. Anyone who takes this kind of risk is desperate," Olanrewaju Saka-Shenayon, a Lagos state government official, told Reuters.
Guess who's their number one export partner?
And speaking of the CIA, looks like someone is in a spot of trouble. How convenient for him to have resigned this week for unrelated reasons. How convenient for the FBI to have waited for him to resign before searching his home. I hate to be all conspiracy theoryist and all, but honestly. And, may I just say, it's nice to find out that the up-until-a-few-days-ago number 3 man in the CIA was awarding 2.4 million dollar contracts to childhood friends who threw poker parties where prostitutes were in attendance. Foggo claims to have not seen any prostitutes. Ah. Of course he didn't. And who can blame him. Just about everyone I know has trouble telling the difference between prostitutes and the average everyday friendly, nice, wholesome girls. Those bitches.
I think I'm in a mood today. I'm lacking compandres at work. It's been raining so hard my driveway looks suspiciously post-Katrina-like. The Kleenex at work is the kind where 2 pieces are necessary to be sufficient. And it's lacking aloe. I miss being able to covertly gmail constantly across the library or across town. Generation X is simultaneously familiar and irritating at the same time. I'm having a hard time picking out music to listen to. Hem is too mellow, Josh Ritter is too happy, Wilco is too much...I'm listening to Beck right now, but it's Sea Change so it kind of makes me want to slit my wrists.
I know after this post I'm going to get a deluge of social offers for the weekend. I can barely stand the thought of spending time with myself. Who's up for night of Erin bitching and moaning about the state of the world, the state of cheap Kleenex, the weather, and how the future involves having to make plans, decisions, and money?
Then again, at least I didn't get screwed over and am losing my job.
Reckley, you should forget about Gomez.
You and I should go on a good old fashioned drunk this weekend.
Or I was right on about just how apathetic people can be.
Somewhere between 150-200 people were killed in Nigeria today when an oil pipeline exploded. Individuals attempting to siphon fuel appear to be responsible. And how misleading was that last sentence? Despite Nigeria being an oil rich country, 60% of the population remains below the poverty level. (Check it out: I just linked to a CIA site!) Big oil companies continue to make big profits while locals suffer.
"This is caused by hunger and greed. If you've got no job and you're hungry you take advantage of anything to feed your family. Anyone who takes this kind of risk is desperate," Olanrewaju Saka-Shenayon, a Lagos state government official, told Reuters.
Guess who's their number one export partner?
And speaking of the CIA, looks like someone is in a spot of trouble. How convenient for him to have resigned this week for unrelated reasons. How convenient for the FBI to have waited for him to resign before searching his home. I hate to be all conspiracy theoryist and all, but honestly. And, may I just say, it's nice to find out that the up-until-a-few-days-ago number 3 man in the CIA was awarding 2.4 million dollar contracts to childhood friends who threw poker parties where prostitutes were in attendance. Foggo claims to have not seen any prostitutes. Ah. Of course he didn't. And who can blame him. Just about everyone I know has trouble telling the difference between prostitutes and the average everyday friendly, nice, wholesome girls. Those bitches.
I think I'm in a mood today. I'm lacking compandres at work. It's been raining so hard my driveway looks suspiciously post-Katrina-like. The Kleenex at work is the kind where 2 pieces are necessary to be sufficient. And it's lacking aloe. I miss being able to covertly gmail constantly across the library or across town. Generation X is simultaneously familiar and irritating at the same time. I'm having a hard time picking out music to listen to. Hem is too mellow, Josh Ritter is too happy, Wilco is too much...I'm listening to Beck right now, but it's Sea Change so it kind of makes me want to slit my wrists.
I know after this post I'm going to get a deluge of social offers for the weekend. I can barely stand the thought of spending time with myself. Who's up for night of Erin bitching and moaning about the state of the world, the state of cheap Kleenex, the weather, and how the future involves having to make plans, decisions, and money?
Then again, at least I didn't get screwed over and am losing my job.
Reckley, you should forget about Gomez.
You and I should go on a good old fashioned drunk this weekend.
Thursday, May 11, 2006
flower jizz sucks or allergies can sideline a relatively healthy person like myself
Why I'm a fool
By: Erin
I am a fool because I believe in people. I believe that democracy is the best political system man has conceived thus far. I believe that the payment for the freedoms one enjoys under a democratic system is participation in the process. Without participation from it's citizens, a democratic society cannot exist. America, as a result of your apathy, you get to enjoy the latest perversion of "democracy" and the largest invasion of your civil rights since this president took office in 2000. How G.W.B. can say this:
"Our efforts are focused on links to al Qaeda and their known affiliates," Bush said. "The privacy of ordinary Americans is fiercely protected in all our activities."
with a straight face baffles me. Millions of Americans have had their call lists looked at by the NSA. Millions. You can bet you're probably one of them if you have phone service through AT&T, Verizon, or Bell South. And anyone who attempts to defend this by saying that we're in a war and we need to collect intelligence and if you aren't doing anything wrong you don't have anything to worry about I say this: GO FUCK YOURSELF (sorry, Mom and Dad). What are we fighting for? What is the point of defending our freedoms if you are just going to disregard our constitutional right to privacy? Adding a big old backhanded smack in the face is the Justice Department having to drop the investigation into the warrentless eavesdropping program because the NSA is refusing to give their lawyers the security clearance needed to investigate. I am sick and tired of the culture of fear this administration has successfully created. I am so sick of Democrats and Republicans and everyday Americans being too afraid to do anything-- be it afraid of losing their seats or afraid of the next terrorist attack that you foolishly think your government can actually prevent. I am sick to death of people not being outraged.
And this is why I'm a fool. I'm a fool because I believe that the people of this country actually care.
We impeached the last president for lying about having gotten a blowjob.
Let me say it slower:
We.impeached.the.last.president.for.lying.about.having.gotten.a.blowjob.
Either gain access to G.W.B. and give him head or wake up and do something.
Write your Senators and your Representatives.
By: Erin
I am a fool because I believe in people. I believe that democracy is the best political system man has conceived thus far. I believe that the payment for the freedoms one enjoys under a democratic system is participation in the process. Without participation from it's citizens, a democratic society cannot exist. America, as a result of your apathy, you get to enjoy the latest perversion of "democracy" and the largest invasion of your civil rights since this president took office in 2000. How G.W.B. can say this:
"Our efforts are focused on links to al Qaeda and their known affiliates," Bush said. "The privacy of ordinary Americans is fiercely protected in all our activities."
with a straight face baffles me. Millions of Americans have had their call lists looked at by the NSA. Millions. You can bet you're probably one of them if you have phone service through AT&T, Verizon, or Bell South. And anyone who attempts to defend this by saying that we're in a war and we need to collect intelligence and if you aren't doing anything wrong you don't have anything to worry about I say this: GO FUCK YOURSELF (sorry, Mom and Dad). What are we fighting for? What is the point of defending our freedoms if you are just going to disregard our constitutional right to privacy? Adding a big old backhanded smack in the face is the Justice Department having to drop the investigation into the warrentless eavesdropping program because the NSA is refusing to give their lawyers the security clearance needed to investigate. I am sick and tired of the culture of fear this administration has successfully created. I am so sick of Democrats and Republicans and everyday Americans being too afraid to do anything-- be it afraid of losing their seats or afraid of the next terrorist attack that you foolishly think your government can actually prevent. I am sick to death of people not being outraged.
And this is why I'm a fool. I'm a fool because I believe that the people of this country actually care.
We impeached the last president for lying about having gotten a blowjob.
Let me say it slower:
We.impeached.the.last.president.for.lying.about.having.gotten.a.blowjob.
Either gain access to G.W.B. and give him head or wake up and do something.
Write your Senators and your Representatives.
Monday, May 08, 2006
nothing says "thoughtful" like a flurry from captain sundae
Does G.W.B. have pictures of John McCain in drag or getting head from a cracked out prostitute because that's the only conclusion I can logically arrive at as to why McCain keeps sticking up for the administration. Just about everyone else came out against Hayden's nomination for the director of the C.I.A. Now you may be asking yourself "What's the big whoop?" The big whoop has a couple of components. First, the CIA has been struggling to define itself as a separate entity since 9-11 intelligence failures from the Pentagon and by nominating a military man one is left with the impression that the CIA is being "gobbled up" by the DOD (thank you Joseph Biden, my new favorite choice for our nominee in 2008!). Second, Hayden was one of the architects of the domestic spying program the American public seems to have conveniently forgotten about. Third, with midterms this year Republicans are looking for a way to distance themselves from the White House's sinking poll numbers. Which brings me back to McCain and his Stand-By-Your-Man attitude. I understand that the right is essential to McCain having any chance in hell of the Republican nomination in 2008, but the President hasn't made the right very happy during his tenure. It's actually really pathetic to see McCain--a man I used to respect--continually be trotted out whenever there is discontent between the White House and the party. Hopefully by the time primary season heats up John McCain will reclaim his balls.
YouTube is my new favorite user-based tagging site in the spirit of del.icio.us and flickr. I've seen a Silver Jews video, Multiple Beck videos, some Devendra Banhart, and my personal fav Old Crow Medicine Show. That site makes me desperate for internet access in the comfort of my home.
It's something to look forward to when I'm finally all grown up.
YouTube is my new favorite user-based tagging site in the spirit of del.icio.us and flickr. I've seen a Silver Jews video, Multiple Beck videos, some Devendra Banhart, and my personal fav Old Crow Medicine Show. That site makes me desperate for internet access in the comfort of my home.
It's something to look forward to when I'm finally all grown up.
Saturday, May 06, 2006
or maybe the concepts aren't all that archaic
I just finished reading the first section of Fahrenheit 451. I started it last night and had some trouble getting into it. The prose felt clunky and forced and the concepts obvious (Aside: this is the next book I'm reading for my Summer of 20th Century American Fiction That Erin Has Shamefully Never Read). I'm slowly starting to get into it. The chief just came and spelled out the whole how-books-became-obsolete-deal. I have a feeling this may be one of those books I'll wish I'd read in junior high school and yet I remain optimistic that I'll appreciate why this book is considered an American Classic (next up is Generation X, Kevin).
Thursday's workshop proved illuminating and really fun. I would kill to be on staff at the Ann Arbor Public Library. Eli, their I.T. manager, gave a 15-20 minute talk on the history of gaming. He actually said, very earnestly, "I'm sure you all remember the video game crash of 1983." I also discovered that DanceDance Revolution is hard and Mario Kart is even harder. Assuming we can get our act together, we're hoping for a DDR tournament this fall (with the Cobaltflux dance platforms, thank you very much) and a Mario Kart tournament--with the finals taking place on the big screen--by February. Check out their gaming blog with the kickass leaderboard to the right on the Ann Arbor site. They've developed their own scoring software that they're working on allowing to be available soon. Oh, you should just go ahead and check out the whole library site. I'm especially taken with their Internet Policy. It actually makes me weak in the knees to read things like:
Child Safety on the Internet
Parents or guardians are responsible for the Internet information selected and/or accessed by their children. Children, under 18 years of age, who use the Internet unsupervised may be exposed to inappropriate or disturbing information and images. Parents are encouraged to discuss the use of the Internet in relation to family values and boundaries with their children and to monitor their children's use of the Internet.
To assist parents, the Library has available on-line and in print form the pamphlet "Child Safety on the Information Highway" published by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. The pamphlet includes "Guidelines for Parents" and "My Rules for On-line Safety." Parents are encouraged to review this information with their children.
At Ann Arbor, all internet computers are UNfiltered though you can request a filtered computer if you so desire. At my library? At my library we've decided to compromise the integrity of the information everyone gets off the internet by filtering all computers but one. Management is under the assumption that the only reason someone would request an unfiltered computer is to look at porn. Now, I'm not stupid and naive and have heard many a tale of vile and disgusting images people have unwittingly stumbled across. But let me tell you something: I.Don't.Care. As someone who works in World of Information it is not my job to judge what someone is reading, watching, listening to, or researching. You start entering the morality realm in libraries and you might as well call it the end of democracy.
See?
I managed to get through an entire post where porn was even mentioned and there were no "inappropriate" sites, boys-who-get-their-knickers-in-a-twist-over-a-blow job kit.
It's a tie for who needs the kit more.
Thursday's workshop proved illuminating and really fun. I would kill to be on staff at the Ann Arbor Public Library. Eli, their I.T. manager, gave a 15-20 minute talk on the history of gaming. He actually said, very earnestly, "I'm sure you all remember the video game crash of 1983." I also discovered that DanceDance Revolution is hard and Mario Kart is even harder. Assuming we can get our act together, we're hoping for a DDR tournament this fall (with the Cobaltflux dance platforms, thank you very much) and a Mario Kart tournament--with the finals taking place on the big screen--by February. Check out their gaming blog with the kickass leaderboard to the right on the Ann Arbor site. They've developed their own scoring software that they're working on allowing to be available soon. Oh, you should just go ahead and check out the whole library site. I'm especially taken with their Internet Policy. It actually makes me weak in the knees to read things like:
Child Safety on the Internet
Parents or guardians are responsible for the Internet information selected and/or accessed by their children. Children, under 18 years of age, who use the Internet unsupervised may be exposed to inappropriate or disturbing information and images. Parents are encouraged to discuss the use of the Internet in relation to family values and boundaries with their children and to monitor their children's use of the Internet.
To assist parents, the Library has available on-line and in print form the pamphlet "Child Safety on the Information Highway" published by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. The pamphlet includes "Guidelines for Parents" and "My Rules for On-line Safety." Parents are encouraged to review this information with their children.
At Ann Arbor, all internet computers are UNfiltered though you can request a filtered computer if you so desire. At my library? At my library we've decided to compromise the integrity of the information everyone gets off the internet by filtering all computers but one. Management is under the assumption that the only reason someone would request an unfiltered computer is to look at porn. Now, I'm not stupid and naive and have heard many a tale of vile and disgusting images people have unwittingly stumbled across. But let me tell you something: I.Don't.Care. As someone who works in World of Information it is not my job to judge what someone is reading, watching, listening to, or researching. You start entering the morality realm in libraries and you might as well call it the end of democracy.
See?
I managed to get through an entire post where porn was even mentioned and there were no "inappropriate" sites, boys-who-get-their-knickers-in-a-twist-over-a-blow job kit.
It's a tie for who needs the kit more.
Wednesday, May 03, 2006
irreverent men make me hot
I finally got around to reading Stephen Colbert's transcript from the White House Press Corps Dinner. Yeah, I'm a reader of the liberal news media primarily, but I was genuinely surprised to hear any criticism of his speech. A co-worker of mine told me she had to shut it off because she thought Colbert was humiliating himself. I've heard some claim that he went too far. How ironic that a comedian whose job it is to make fun of society is called inappropriate. You know what I think is inappropriate? The ongoing below-the-radar conflict in Afghanistan, the war in Iraq, oil companies making record profits while gas prices continue to rise, Darfur, illegally wiretapping American citizens, pathetic excuses for environmental and energy policies, Guantanamo, the health care crisis in America, our ever-shrinking civil liberties, unemployment rates in Michigan, the federal government's stellar handling of Hurricane Katrina, immoral tax policies, a media that is essentially the lapdog of the administration...
Actually, inappropriate is the wrong word.
Criminal is closer to the truth.
Actually, inappropriate is the wrong word.
Criminal is closer to the truth.
Tuesday, May 02, 2006
the internet is down! the internet is down!
Work drama has prevented me from posting. It's too long and boring to go into, but it appears as if things are looking up. I've been placated. Tamed. Soothed. And I get to go to a How to host a gaming event workshop on Thursday. I get to play Dance Dance Revolution during the lunch break.
Oh yeah.
You are all so jealous.
I had an unexpected weekend. To all of those I did not see, I missed seeing you. I'm optimistic that our paths will cross soon! It was indeed an uncharacteristic move for us to have plans that we were genuinely looking forward to only to make a split second decision to go a different way.
To all of those I did see, I had a swell time. Mulligan's was a thing of beauty. How exactly does the logic work in a man's brain to tell a strange woman sitting next to him (who is obviously there with someone) that she's beautiful and then follow up with "So do you have any cocaine?"
The Saz to the Rack was a perfect ending to the night as we were joined by Kevdek and Raleigh. I may have been a wee bit too...well....drunk to be consuming the Founder's IPA that late at night, but I stand by all I said. Peter really does have the sweetest most hilarious most offensive way of wooing his woman and Raleigh thanks for letting me drape myself all over you.
Know anyone who needs one of these?
I've got an extra.
Oh yeah.
You are all so jealous.
I had an unexpected weekend. To all of those I did not see, I missed seeing you. I'm optimistic that our paths will cross soon! It was indeed an uncharacteristic move for us to have plans that we were genuinely looking forward to only to make a split second decision to go a different way.
To all of those I did see, I had a swell time. Mulligan's was a thing of beauty. How exactly does the logic work in a man's brain to tell a strange woman sitting next to him (who is obviously there with someone) that she's beautiful and then follow up with "So do you have any cocaine?"
The Saz to the Rack was a perfect ending to the night as we were joined by Kevdek and Raleigh. I may have been a wee bit too...well....drunk to be consuming the Founder's IPA that late at night, but I stand by all I said. Peter really does have the sweetest most hilarious most offensive way of wooing his woman and Raleigh thanks for letting me drape myself all over you.
Know anyone who needs one of these?
I've got an extra.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)