decisions decisions decisions

AAAAARRRRRRRRGGGGGHHHHHHH!!!!

We cannot catch a break, can we? One would hope that the stupid governor of South Dakota would put aside partisan politics and assign a Democrat to his seat given that the American people put that party in power, but I doubt that will happen. Stupid 17th Amendment. Stupid Constitution of the United States. God, I hate this country sometimes.

So this news only temporarily dampened my spirits. I received an unexpected phone call this afternoon whilst on desk from my friend Carl. Carl is a professional pianist who lives in NYC, but has taken a job with Norwegian Cruise Line and is working for Second City Improv Troupe. Confusing, I know. REGARDLESS, I have been invited to go on a free cruise with him to the Caribbean. Sounds like an opportunity of a lifetime, right? For any sane, normal, human being?
But this is Erin we are speaking of and I got me some reservations:

1. The trip is January 13-23. This is less than a month after I'd be returning from Vermont.
2. I'm still unclear as to what "free cruise" entails. I know that my airfare from MI to NYC (yeah, it starts in NYC!!!!) is covered, but what about meals? Gratuity? Adult beverages?
3. I'm not really a cruise kinda gal. I mean, I haven't ever been on a cruise before or anything, but I'm just not that into big boats that don't feel as though you're really on a boat. Or tours. Or laying out in the sun.
4. January is not typically bathing suit time for me so I'm woefully unprepared for such an endeavor. I'm pale. And not exactly as fit as I wish I would be to be lounging on the deck in a bikini.

I've already been told by a half a dozen people that I would be crazy to pass up this opportunity. I mean, I'd be in Antigua. In January. With my friend Carl. With whom I have a fabulous time. I'm going to be emailing him tonight to ask for some more specifics. When he called he was on the beach in St. Thomas. And I could hear the waves in the background. And almost smell the ocean.

Oh, poor little Erin! To go on the cruise or not to go?

I lead such a difficult life.

Everything else is moving along at a nice clip. I recently reconnected with my friend Michael where we discovered that neither of us are the center of the universe and blogging is no substitute for actual communication. It was really good to see him again. I had my first fitting on Monday and confirmed that the individual who took the measurements was indeed supremely stupid. I have but one episode left of Season 1 of the Gilmore Girls which is my latest guilty pleasure. I went to the Sandbar last night for the first time in 2 weeks. I had tea this morning with the lovely Christina and have not consumed caffeine today. It was the staff Christmas party and I still went out and purchased a b-i-g salad for my supper to avoid gorging on the many cheese laden items on the buffet table. In honor of the Christmas party, I look hot. No, seriously. Hot. Berghoef can vouch for me.

And I only have 3 more days of work before I head to the land of milk and honey for one glorious week of family and friends.

Life is good.

ding! dong! pinochet is dead!

The Amy Grant Christmas album is over 20 years old. How did that happen?! This morning my walk to work was powered by her glorious rendition of Emmanuel and Little Town. Man oh man, how I used to love that record (yes, it was on vinyl). The music is all synthesized-out. The trumpets are not trumpets. The guitars are not guitars. The harps are not harps. It's truly a perfect Christmas record.

And then I got to listen to the Flaming Lips.
And Gorillaz.

I'm feeling better. Not 100%, but better. I credit my recovery to hot toddies and alot of sleep. I did go to the shop. I am officially a moron. I spent a ridiculous amount of time Saturday trying to figure out how to most effectively trace and cut a pattern piece only to do it the most ineffective way. Yesterday one could find me pondering which direction darts were supposed to be ironed and putting a skirt together completely out of order: one side seam, the CB seam, and finally the other side seam. Lord. The only thing I felt good about was how quickly I threaded the machine and how easily I fixed a bobbin/tension problem. I have a fitting tonight at 5pm for my body block and I'm going to recut and stitch the bodice before that. Hopefully this week I'll finally get to drape. That's really the fun part. No math, no curves, no rulers. Just me and a form and miles of muslin. The math, the curves, and the rulers come later.

Borat is funny. Go see it. I hear there were complaints about him being too "mean" to people, but I didn't think so. Most of the people he interacted with deserved to be made fun of. Racist white cowboys, misogynistic drunken frat boys, insane pentecostal religious freaks...Good times.

G.W.B. is giving the appearance that he's listening to everyone's opinions on an Iraq strategy and says he will unveil the new approach by Christmas. I hope his Christian base is praying for a Christmas miracle because that's what it's going to take to get that man to change his mind. I agree wholeheartedly with Biden: "He has this wholesome but naive view that Western notions of liberty are easily transposed to that area of the world." I had the pleasure of watching Sunday morning news shows (my church) this week and was pleased to hear people--intelligent people--discuss what a monumental disaster this entire operation has been. And discuss the various options available to the U.S. all of which are terrible, horrible, no-good, very bad options. I get so angry now watching everyone say what a mistake this war was. Four years ago those of us who thought that way were called unpatriotic and unAmerican. Stupid electorate. Stupid politicians. Stupid G.W.B. Unfortunately, my self-righteousness will not solve anything, nor will my rage. Iraq is a mess and will remain a mess. Nothing will make it better. America should be ashamed of itself.

My Obamamania continues to thrive. He was in New Hampshire this weekend selling out like a rockstar. He hasn't announced whether or not he will run and is doing his best to control the message that he's the Democratic Party's savior. He's not. He's just a man. And a politician at that. But politics is perception and everyone sees the hope of a new direction in Obama.

I love him.

You know who I don't love?
Pinochet.
May he rot in hell.

hot water, honey, lemon, and whiskey

The craziest thing happened today.

The sun made an appearance.

We've had 7 days of snow. Last night the total in Holland was at 15 inches. I believe Monday I made a comment about how I hadn't yet reached the "when will it end" point.

Point reached.
I'm done with snow for a little while.

Imagine the atmosphere when putting up a Christmas tree. I usually think of a festive holiday movie in the backround. Or maybe some Bing Crosby singing about a white Christmas. Me? I listened to someone read some Baudelaire, specifically The Flowers of Evil. It was quintessentially odd and perfect. Regardless, the little tree is up and decorated.

I'm still sick. It's looking like a very lowkey weekend is in order for me. I'll be spending Saturday and Sunday in the shop getting ready for my first fitting on Monday. Seeing as though I have but a body block drafted on paper, I'd say I have some work to do. My first ACTUAL fitting isn't really until January, but the measurements I got were sketchy at best so I went ahead and asked for an earlier one. No point in wasting hours of time trying to drape or draft only to find that things are completely off. In theory, I also have holiday cards to get out in the mail. I have never once in the 14 years since officially becoming an adult sent out cards. I'm not sure what compelled me to start now, but since I have them it seems a shame to not do it. And I got season 1 of the Gilmore Girls in on DVD.

Sewing, sending out cards, and watching the Gilmore Girls with my cat.

Don't intervene yet, but if I keep this up someone come and make me be irresponsible and fun.

i feel like jerri blank only i wasn't ever a prostitute. or a drug addict. or in prison.

I seem to have contracted a cold. Again. And this one's gonna be a bitch to shake. It started Monday with a tickle in my throat and has become a full-blown snotty coughing eyes tearing mess of a thing. I debated whether or not I should come to work today, but the guilt of knowing we were short tonight won out over my comfort. I hate having a conscience sometimes.

I am now in possession of a key to the costume shop. This not only means I am no longer a slave to their 9-5 hours, but also that I may never have to be in the same room as those students ever again. Here's the thing: they aren't horrible. They're just... college students. And not just any college students. They're theatre kids. In 2 short days I was introduced to the slut of the department, the righteous Christian girl of the department, the drunk of the department, the girl who thinks she knows everything but really knows nothing of the department and the staple of every theatre department across this great land: the guy who thinks he's straight but everyone knows is gay. And the music! It's usually this non-offensive, unbelievably boring, and slightly Christian wretchedness. The alternative? John Mayer. Over half of them couldn't stop talking about how excited they were that they had tickets to the Over the Rhine concert that night. I am in music hell here, people. As far as I know, no one who reads this is from my theatrey past so I won't bore anyone with details (I'm going to have to make miracles happen with silk charmeuse. And whoever took this girl's measurements was a moron: her nape to waist measurement could not possibly be 58". She would be a ginormous freak of nature if that was the case!), but so far I'm hanging in there. I thought my first task would take 5 hours and it took 2. So there.

It's almost not worth mentioning as news because everyone knew he would fly through but Rumsfeld is officially no longer the Secretary of Defense. Quite honestly, I don't know if anyone really cares about Gates. Everyone cares that Rumsfeld is done. Here, here!

Our kindly shoemaker from Michigan (he's really not a shoemaker, but he really looks like one), Senator Levin keeps talking away. Today it was the Iraq Study Group:

"The report represents another blow at the policy of 'stay-the-course' that this administration has followed," the Michigan Democrat said. "Hopefully, this will be the end of that stay-the-course policy."

Levin loves the term "stay-the-course." I think because for the past 4 years he was called a cut-and-run Democrat and unpatriotic. Tony Snow had this to say for the White House:

"Stay the course is not the policy and it's been that way for months," said Snow during his daily White House briefing for reporters. "We look at this as a very positive document."

He's not completely inaccurate though I don't know if the end of October can be considered "months." And the report wasn't exactly a glowing endorsement for what G.W.B. considers the current policy which is to "win in Iraq."

Anyone want to explain what the hell that means?

This is a really boring time of year politically. Congress is no longer in session. The Republicans left a big mess for the Democrats to clean up in January. The Democrats are insisting that the House work 5 days a week, poor things. Until the House and Senate are sworn in there just isn't much going on.

Except Iraq.
Which isn't going anywhere.

score: grace 0, mouse 1

It is so strange how winter descended upon Western Michigan this year. Though it has been snowing constantly since Friday, I have yet to reach the "JesusMaryandJoseph is it EVER going to stop snowing?!?!" emotional point. It has to do with the unseasonably warm temperatures last week methinks. And that I have not yet had to trudge to work in the freezing cold thanks to my feminine wiles.

Erin's going back to school today. I'm heading to the costume shop at 3:30pm to figure out a schedule and pick a dress to drape and build. I'm nervous. I haven't sewed a garment in years let alone drape anything. I'm hoping that it'll be like riding a bike though I suspect it's going to be more like running. Just because at one point in your life you ran 26.2 miles doesn't mean that you can rush out and run 5 miles at your formerly "relaxed" pace of 10 min/mile if you've taken a significantly long break. Sigh. I also had a brief moment of "what if the other kids don't like me?" and was told not to worry. They won't like me.

My weekend was just about as wonderful as I had hoped it would be. I had a fabulous time with the former roommate and am hoping we can get together some time this week for a more cost effective date of tea. She's amazing. She looks great, she sounds serene, and she's inspired me to start doing yoga and--brace yourselves--attempt to give up coffee. I don't think I'll ever be able to truly give it up. The taste alone is way too good, but I haven't had any since Thursday and do feel like less of a slave to the bean. Friday was Love Actuallied out. Saturday, aside from the work part, was chock full of solitude. Sunday was fruitful as I came home with a load of very nice clothes compliments of gift certificates from last year. Our last trip was to Target where I could not help but spend some money. The evening ended with the BSC announcements (I will refrain from ranting about the selection process-which is bullshit!-and fuck (sorry parents!) Notre Dame going to the Sugar Bowl) and be happy that Michigan is playing in the one Bowl that is still unassociated with commercial endorsements) and 2 hilarious episodes of the Family Guy and American Dad.

When the Bolton announcement was originally made, I assumed it was his choice to resign. No, oh no. He can't get the Senate nomination. Ha! In stereotypical Bushian fashion, he's standing by Bolton despite widespread opposition. You know, I've always operated under the assumption that Bush was the big dumb pawn in the American political game, but I'm starting to think he's just that stubborn. No one really knows what the deal was with the Rumsfeld memo leak. Is it an embarrassment to the White House? An admission that Rumsfeld did in fact disagree with Bush on Iraq at the end? Is it a leak from the Democrats who are all too happy to point out the irony that a man who seemed absolutely positive that his was the only way did in fact have doubts? Is it the Republicans attempting to give Rumsfeld some cred because they know that he was just the scapegoat? Regardless, the G.W.B. era of arrogance and stubbornness is about to end. As January approaches and Iraq starts feeling more like a geopolitical chessgame and less real, I'm starting to rethink my early assertions that the Democrats leave him alone.

Let's go after the bastard.

And one final story from Erin's life:

My first mouse made it's appearance last night. It was so stinking cute! It popped out from behind the stove and then attempted to make a run for it. Grace was all over that. She caught it and then dropped it. She caught it and then dropped it. She caught it and then dropped it. I think she played that little game about 6 times before it made it's escape into the tower of returnables. Though I've always said I have a zero tolerance policy regarding mice it's a little tough being the good vegetarian I am to fill my house with traps. Alas, I fear I have no choice. My initial response was to stop feeding Grace as much in the hopes that the little darlings will at least die a natural death, but the thought of waking up and finding a family hidden in my pantry is too much for my heart.

Plus there is that whole bloodthirsty part of my personality that I need to occasionally indulge.

all personal...no politics...

Well, Thursday just kinda flew by. We've been busy today thanks to the ominous weather report for tomorrow: 12 inches of snow. I'm thinking that's probably way off the mark, but heaven forbid anyone should be without stacks of movies and books just in case. Me? I'm off tomorrow. I really hope it does snow like crazy because nothing makes me happier than snuggling up on my couch for a day while snow is falling and Love Actually is on the tv. I'm not going to be very happy Saturday morning at 7:20am when I have to trudge through the stuff to get to work by 8, but I'll deal with that when it happens. AND tomorrow a young gentleman will be stopping by in the afternoon to snake my drain. Hells yes, I say! Though my neighbor's shower is far superior to mine it'll be nice to not leave the house to bathe. Plus, you know, not having to look at the vileness that is currently occupying my bathtub will be nice too.

Though working on a Saturday is never fun, I'm looking forward to my weekend of which night one kicks off tonight. A much needed late night noshing and cocktailing with my former roommate is the plan. We haven't hung out in months and both have much to catch up on. This is one of those people that I absolutely positively adore and miss very much. We were the finish-each-others-sentences kind of friends. We rarely see each other anymore for a myriad of reasons. I'm optimistic that tonight will be the beginning of a much more consistent friendship. Friday night is an early night for me due to the working on Saturday. Saturday night I'm hoping to head to G.R. for an evening of BuzzTime-a game which I have technically played before but have no idea how to play. It was New Year's Eve. And Sunday I'm being very brave and heading to multiple malls for a day of shopping.

It's going to be a very good weekend.
I just know it.

my life is like a bad chick lit novel

I'm not going to go into details or anything, but if sometime in the near future one finds me drinking bottles of cheap wine alone with my cat and singing bad 80s love songs at the top of my lungs it's time for an intervention.

No more DVD Release Parties! I was up against Santa Claus and a parade downtown and still managed a respectable audience of 138. No more popcorn. No more unruly children. No more substandard computer animated cartoons. I'm being forced to continue this event in the spring, but am scaling it way back to only 2 or 3 films instead of 5. I've said it before and I will say it again: it is not my job to program for children. I will miss the now infamous emails I would send out after the show explaining how things went as will the staff it seems. I received an email from a coworker suggesting I continue sending out a weekly email describing my observations and interactions with patrons and then turn it into a book. Though occasionally you do have a good one (last night a 15 year old girl asked if she could "rent out" the library auditorium to throw her Sweet 16 Party) most patron interactions are brief and boring. "Yes, it sure is wet out there! Sounds like we're in for some snow! No, I haven't read the latest Karen Kinsbury. I'll have to check that out! Yup, it IS busy!" Not exactly page-turning material.

In honor of this momentous ending, I celebrated a little too much at the Sandbar. I had some good times with some regulars. And on the way home I discovered an unconventional method for ridding myself of the hiccups. It was a rough start to the day especially given that the drain in my bathtub was (and probably still is) clogged even after 2 bottles of Draino. It is currently filled 1/2 way with disgusting rusty water and floaty bits of junk. A call was made to the caretaker extraordinaire but I'm not holding my breath that it's been taken care of. I know I would have felt 100% better had I been able to stand in a steaming hot shower for 15 minutes. If the situation hasn't improved I've already lined up a shower for the morning at the front house.

Is it just me or has the U.S. started acting like an abusive spouse by blaming Iraq for the unstable environment? Now wait just a second, here. Before we (foolishly) invaded that country (illegally and unnecessarily) Saddam Hussein was doing a fine job of keeping everyone in line. Sectarian violence wasn't an issue. And it's not a coincidence that the violence increased right after the Democrats won back the House and Senate. They aren't stupid and they watch CNN right along with the rest of the world. Iraq's afraid we're going to pull out and everyone's looking to grab power and control. The White House can say whatever it wants, but it's also not a coincidence that memo was leaked the day G.W.B. was supposed to meet with al-Malaki. Don't call it a civil war and just keep insisting that al Qaeda is involved ("There's a lot of sectarian violence taking place, fomented, in my opinion, because of these attacks by al Qaeda, causing people to seek reprisal." That's a G.W.B. quote.) and maybe no one will notice when we pull out leaving that country a complete disaster. You think he'll ever define exactly what victory means in Iraq? Because I'm starting to wonder if victory means there are no more Iraqis left.

"We will continue to be flexible, and we'll make the changes necessary to succeed. But there's one thing I'm not going to do: I'm not going to pull our troops off the battlefield before the mission is complete," Bush said later, in a speech here in the Latvian capital. "We can accept nothing less than victory for our children and our grandchildren."

What about their children and grandchildren?

guess who's back?

Well, that didn't feel much like a holiday. I suppose having to work Friday didn't help. Nor did having to work Sunday afternoon. Ah well. It's Monday, again.

Despite it being all too short, it was a lovely weekend. The Beechwood wasn't the wretched experience anyone expected it to be. The hike was nice. The vegetarian feast was non-existent, but the whole wheat roasted vegetable pizza was delicious. Work on Friday was fine. I read almost an entire book on Saturday (don't be too impressed--it's modern fiction and enjoyable, but ultimately a pretty light read) and was planning on finishing it, but was tempted by a wine and cheese party at Amy and Scott's. I had a hard time transitioning from solitude to a crowd, but had a really nice time nonetheless. I was also the one who made the suggestion that perhaps the Notre Dame/USC game could be on as "background" on the ginormous tv. Junkie. I'm a football junkie. Sunday I worked, caught up with the Trav on how his vacation went (must. make. a. trip. down. South. North Carolina and Tennessee looked beautiful), watched the Patriots eek out a win over the Bears--and Dad? I leapt up and yelled "YES!" when they intercepted with 2 minutes to go ensuring their win. I am my father's daughter!--and then watched the normal Sunday night Fox programming. Today is errand-running day: drop off laundry, drop off already-late-DVD, go to grocery store, run to bank, go to post office, run to Walgreens, drop off car, run home....Yeesh. I think a later night movie is a possibility and then I'm heading to bed as early as possible. Tomorrow is the last DVD Release Party of the season and I'll need all the rest I can get to survive!

I'm on week 2 of some pretty big lifestyle changes. I've been running consistently for the past 2 weeks. I've stopped eating in front of my tv (again!) and am refusing to answer the phone while I'm eating. I haven't been going out nearly as much. I've been reading more. I have made plans for Thursday night with my much beloved and much missed best friend Christina to catch up. I have made plans with my much beloved and much needed co-worker Molly for a Sunday of shopping. Though the past year wouldn't seem like it, I crave stability and structure and succeed best when those things are in place. I miss my friends. I miss getting a good night's sleep. I miss the healthy lifestyle I created. Not having a car has isolated me and made me dependent--2 things I abhor. These were all my choices and I don't regret them, but I'm happy to be working towards a saner and healthier life.

3 weeks from today I'll be anxiously looking at the clock in anticipation of my much needed trip back to wonderful, amazing, perfect Vermont for 7 whole days!

save a turkey. eat some tofu. or lentils. or seitan. oh forget it. eat the turkey. it tastes good if i remember correctly.

It's the night before Thanksgiving. One might think the library would be closed the night before Thanksgiving as most people would not be needing library services. I can see us being open until 5pm. I can see us being open until 6pm. But 9pm? I understand the whole taxpayer thing but are we really an essential service? Isn't it more wasteful to pay a whole bunch of people too much money to remain open for the few who absolutely positively need to check their myspace accounts?

I'm not bitter.

Quite honestly it's really not that big of a deal. My plans for tomorrow involve being conscious and presentable by 1pm to attend the Berghoef Thanksgiving Extravaganza at the Beechwood. And really that's not the main event. Post Erin being able to hang out with a huge family, a hike in the Dunes is planned. And post that I'm making my favorite vegetarian "meat"loaf, mashed potatoes, sauteed beet greens, my new vegetarian gravy and hopefully a somewhat healthy green bean casserole. And maybe some black olives from a can. Why black olives from a can? It's an Erin Davison holiday favorite food memory. I only wish I had the cutglass dish my Mom used to put them in and place directly next to my place at the table.

I love black olives from a can.

first i don't go to the sandbar for a week and then i agree with kissinger...

I'm not sure how it happened, but it appears to be Monday.

Despite the score, the U of M/Ohio game was not that close. We were outplayed. Over and over and over again. Ohio's offense was just superior and our defense was incapable of stopping them. And our offense was inconsistent. Ah well. I've been accused once again of cursing Michigan teams. Though I wish I could take credit for being that evil, sadly, I am but a woman. A woman who likes sports.

Sunday was a lazy day filled with food, naps, more food, and the Sunday night Fox lineup. I was looking forward to the Simpsons as they went to Vermont for vacation, but it really wasn't all that funny. Family Guy? Genius. Sexual role playing games involving beloved McDonald's characters are hilarious.

Go big, go long, or go home seem to be the options facing a decision regarding Iraq. I suppose it's considered news given that the administration no longer has a blank check, but haven't these always been our options? How sad that this conflict has continued to deteriorate when a major policy adjustment was something that could have happened a long time ago. Go home seems to be the least likely scenario, but Levin's not going to give up without a fight. And John McCain has clearly lost his mind and has decided to model his presidential run coming out by sounding like G.W.B.:

McCain, a front-running GOP presidential hopeful for 2008, said the U.S. must send an overwhelming number of troops to stabilize Iraq or face more attacks -- in the region and possibly on American soil.
"The consequences of failure are so severe that I will exhaust every possibility to try to fix this situation. Because it's not the end when American troops leave. The battleground shifts, and we'll be fighting them again," McCain said. "You read Zarqawi, and you read bin Laden. ... It's not just Iraq that they're interested in. It's the region, and then us." He was referring to Osama bin-Laden and the late al Qaeda leader in Iraq, Abu Musab al-Zarqawi.

John? We don't have the troops. They don't exist. Unless you're willing to reinstate the draft (which, coincidently, Rangel is pushing as an option) your solution is based on fantasy and not on reality.

You know who is looking at reality? Kissinger. A military solution isn't the answer, nor is withdrawing right away. I'm agreeing with Kissinger. I can't even believe it myself.

I have managed to procure a vehicle for this afternoon, so I'll be running errands. I have some phone calls to make and a sweater to work on and a scarf to finish and a run to fit in. I've been enjoying a pretty big lifestyle change recently so I'm thinking it'll be a lowkey kind of night hopefully involving some Scrabble.

And when I say "lifestyle change" I mean that I haven't been to Saugatuck in over a week.

Yeah. It's still Erin.
It's all good.

politics, polemics, and identity theft! oh my!

Here we go.
It's only been a week and the Democrats are already fighting.

I've loved James Carville since Clinton's win in '92, but attacking Dean a week after a historic election is just plain stupid. Dean's decision to rebuild the Democratic Party at the state level was absolutely the right thing to do. It's a long-term strategy that will eventually bring more people to the Democratic Party as opposed to Rahm Emanuel's same-old-same-old plan of funneling money into key districts.

And Nancy Pelosi's first move as Speaker was stupid too. Don't go backing John Murtha, you nitwit! He doesn't have the support of the House and he's wildly controversial. You lost your first fight. Weak. You looked weak.

God, I love politics.

And speaking of the deliciousness of political theatre, man oh man I wish I'd been in the room yesterday when the Armed Services Committee had a hearing on Iraq with Abizaid. You had McCain, Clinton, Levin, Leiberman, Graham, and Bayh all angling for zingers. At one point, Leiberman walked over to McCain and Collins (a moderate Republican from Maine) and huddled up to share a nice chuckle together. Leiberman made a point of glancing at the Democrats. Don't worry, Joe. It was duly noted that you are in no way a kept man! I suppose the most important part of the whole charade was that Abizaid said pulling out in 6 months (Levin's big plan) was a bad idea. I couldn't agree more. He also admitted that there weren't enough troops on the ground initially. I couldn't agree more. And he said that the answer wasn't to add more troops. I couldn't agree more. What wasn't discussed was the Iraq Study Group to the Stars recent meeting with G.W.B. I can't wait until until that report comes out. Can't.Wait. One of my most favorite suggestions is that we get into talks with Syria and Iran. Woo-wee! Smackdown, George! Daddy's former Secretary of State might come out and say that everything you've been doing internationally to succeed in Iraq is dead wrong. Isolating yourself from neighboring countries because they might not like your little War on Terror probably wasn't the way to go.

Crow is on the menu post-Thanksgiving.

You know what else makes me hot?

Polemics.

I made the mistake of starting "Letter to a Christian Nation" right before I was supposed to be falling asleep last night. It's a really quick little read that has undoubtedly upset many many people. It's fun. Really fun.

And on a personal note, Berghoef's had his identity stolen. Technically it's not his identity. It's his debit card number, but I much prefer saying he's been a victim of identity theft. Peter doesn't even want to be Peter 90% of the time. I almost feel sorry for the guy who took it as there really wasn't much he could take though we suspect the criminal is currently enjoying a sweet new gaming system that neither of us will ever be able to afford and enjoy. Everything's going to be fine and taken care of, but it's been 24 hours of hassles which will most likely not end anytime soon.

And that, my friends, is why I'm a cash and carry kinda gal.

did it miss the mark or did it just suck?

Who else thinks that "Iraq Study Group" sounds really funny and really sad? I imagine James Bakker and Sandra Day O'Connor showing up in the basement of a dorm at 10pm with tons of research, books, and papers waiting impatiently for G.W.B. to show up all drunk and worthless.

Okay. Maybe it's more sad.

"I will soon send a message to the American people. The message is in the stage of preparation," he said. Without elaborating, he said his message would be in response to U.S. government statements.

That's a nice and scary quote from the lovely Iranian President. I really think we dropped the big ginormous ball on this one. And when I say 'we' I mean the administration. Let's look at it, shall we? Crazy dictator who's keeping a lid on sectarian violence in his country vs Nation on the verge of nuclear capabilities.

Yeeeeah.

If one happens to be out to rent a movie and one comes across "Art School Confidential" do not bother unless you're wanting to sit through 2 hours of stereotypes and substandard writing and directing. There are a ton of characters and good actors (John Malkovich! Angelica Huston! Steve Buscemi!), but that doesn't equate to a decent movie. I am known for being mildly hypercritical so maybe if you're looking for a good time give it a look especially if you have masochist tendencies.

In case anyone is even remotely interested, I'm back on a running schedule. 30 minutes a day this week though I can't wait to start going longer. It feels like I'm just getting started and then it's over, but no need to go and get myself all injured when I'm as enthusiastic as I am. I'm hoping to finally run the RiverBank Run in May of 2007.

You should all do it with me!
It'll be superfun!

And a huge shout-out to my wonderful, amazing, patient, take-charge, successful, talented, superfantastic sister. Thanks to her I'm heading to Vermont December 18th-25th!

and the no-plan plan continues to be a success

Though the tickets to OCMS had been purchased well in advance, the plans for the weekend started coming together in the wee hours of Wednesday morning post-election. A serendipitous text message from Budde put things into motion for Saturday.

The continuing tradition of the Novi Denny's for supper was the official kick off to the birthday celebration. We swung over to Bloomfield Hills to pick up Brad and took 75 downtown (I must confess it was my first time taking 75. Woodward is a far more satisfying experience. Going from the zoo, over 8 mile, and descending into liquor stores and check cashing places on every corner is the way to travel. If I'm going to Detroit, I wanna see Detroit!). The timing was creepily good as we parked across the street, stood in line for mere moments, headed up to the bar and within 15 minutes OCMS took the stage.

Seek them out. The show was amazingly good. AMAZINGLY GOOD! They played for 3 hours with one big set break and 2 encores--thank the Lord for that second encore. It would have been a letdown had they finished the night with the less-than-spectacular cover of "Walk of Life." It was the only weak moment in the whole show. And though I knew that these were tendersweetyoungthings, I swear none of those guys are over 30. And I'm more in love with Ketch Secor than ever. And quickly developed an obsession with Willie Watson. And their bass player Morgan Jahnig. Oh hell, I love them all! There were minor technical difficulties on Let it Alone, but that was really it. They're like Greensky Bluegrass only tighter and better. The Majestic Complex is quickly becoming one of my favorite places for shows. Not only is there a bowling alley connected to it, but the beer of the night for me was Two-Hearted on tap. First of the season for me.

Post-show we headed up Woodward to meet Vito and Glick at what I thought was called the Chalet, but now I'm thinking might have been Mt. Chalet. It was one of those bars that I long for here in the Holland area. Laid back, decent prices, good crowd minus the brief bar fight that erupted and was quickly stopped thanks partly to Mr. Russo. We closed it down and then headed back to the Budde residence where I was put to work peeling potatoes for a late night snack of deliciousness complements of Brad who didn't just open a bag of frozen fries. Oh no.

Sunday was a time for sleeping in and waking up in time for brunch with the Budde family where once again Brad wowed in the kitchen: Pancakes with apples and brown sugar. Dang me.
There was some brief hanging out post-brunch and then we started the uneventful trip back to Holland.

It was a good birthday. A very good birthday.

So I'm back to the grind of daily life. A new day, a new week, a new year.

One other note: If you get a chance, watch The Devil and Daniel Johnston. It is an outstanding documentary about a singer/songwriter/artist who was and is hugely influential in the (I can't believe I'm going to use this term, but oh well...) "outsider" art and music world. Wilco's covered him. Pearl Jam's covered him. Sufjan's covered him. Beck's covered him. Aside from the obvious interest I have regarding that aspect of his life, it really chronicles his on-going lifelong battle with mental illness. It's unbelievably honest and heartbreaking. It borders on exploitive, but is still worth watching. The more I talk about this film the more I realize how this is a disease that touches a vast majority of people. And this film shows how difficult it is to understand and how difficult it is to deal with someone who is mentally ill. I'm hoping to pull off a program this spring at the library centering on this issue. This one's personal.

and it all comes down to Virginia...

I honestly don't know if this day can get any better.
I haven't felt this good since 1992.

When I finally went to bed last night at 3:30am, Jennifer Granholm was re-elected, Debbie Stabenow was re-elected, the Democrats were up 23 seats in the House, and the 3 remaining Senate races had reached the recount/too close to call stage (though, honestly, how long could it take to count the votes in Montana? How many people live there?!). Plus we can now go booze it up in Zeeland! When I woke up this morning the Democrats were up 28 seats in the House, McCaskill had taken Missouri, and the Democrats had taken back the Michigan House.

And then I got to work where the news just kept getting better.

Tester took Montana.
Webb is up about 7000 votes in Virginia.
And Rumsfeld is out.

Oh, I've just got to repeat that.

Rumsfeld is OUT.

But of course I can't just be happy now, can I?

I now live in a state that has banned affirmative action. Shock and disgust would accurately describe how I feel. It was a sneaky and confusing proposal that never should have made it onto the ballot in the first place. I'm optimistic this will eventually get overturned in the courts. Sadly, it was framed in a "whaddya mean my white kid from the western side of the state isn't going to get into U of M while a darkie from Detroit with lower SAT scores and a lower GPA is?!" Upsetting for a few reasons: it exposes the dirty secret that shhhhh!

racism still exists!

and it completely overlooks the hugely damaging aspect which is women's issues. It sucks. (By the way you can see a delightful picture of me-unshowered and flush with the excitement of having just voted-and my just slightly misquoted take on Prop 2 in today's GR Press. I most certainly did not say "iron the bugs out!")

Though I'm in an unbelievably celebratory mood (did I mention that whole not-since-1992 thing?!?!), I'm also very cautious. Taking back the House was one thing. The prospect of taking back the Senate is another. The last thing we need to do is start investigating and issuing subpoenas. Let's still do what we said we were going to do: fix our broken country that has been run into the ground by this administration. Prescription drug coverage, health insurance, renewable energy resources, education (get rid of No Child Left Behind!), implementing the suggestions put forth by the 9/11 commission, campaign finance reform, and the oh so big reason why we took back the House: Iraq.

So, there it is. I've been on cloud nine all day, but I'm starting to feel that inevitable deflated post-election season feeling. Thankfully, I have but a short time until drumroll please...........
presidential primaries! In one short year we should be gearing up for a variety of options and some rousing debates. Woo.Hoo.

One day more and I'm in for a much needed and much deserved 3 day weekend. Yesterday was not just about Election Day 2006. It was also the DVD release party for Cars. I survived. Everyone was happy. The majority of the problems have been resolved. I'm officially a library rock star and a victim of my own success. Sigh. Regardless, this weekend is looking good. Mr. Budde is in the Michigan area and contemplating joining us for Old Crow Medicine Show. I might finally get to meet the infamous Vito Russo and I'm hoping Glick will wander over from Ypsi to join us all in a celebration. A culmination celebration. A celebration not only of the glory of the Democrats ending a very long, very cold 14 years of frustration and humiliation, but also a celebration of me having survived yet another year of being Erin.

it's short, but sweet

vote

get your sexy on

I'm bringing sexy back. I got the idea from Sir Justin Timberlake on my walk to work this morning. The decision was made but a few hours ago and I've already got some great ideas and have implemented sweeping changes:

• Instead of the typical Friday cold weather wear of bulky wool sweater, I'm donning the sexy sexy librarian cardigan that just screams "rip me off." Granted, I'm also freezing my ass off, but one must make sacrifices for a good cause.
• This weekend I'm determined to wear a skirt preferably one that is entirely too short to wear to work. I don't care if I wear it grocery shopping or out and about, this weekend I'm not going to wear the Beck sweatshirt and the jeansthatarefivesizestoobigforme all weekend.
• Before the weather really takes a nasty turn, I've got to get in some good boot wearing. I currently own 2 fabulous pairs of calf length boots that have yet to be worn this season.
• I'm going to start building my base. Again. Nothing says sexy like a woman who goes out for a short run of 6 miles.
• Money will no longer be spent on substandard junk food. If I'm going to spend money on food out it's going to be an experience. A deliciously sexy experience. (Burger Nite at the Boathouse is excluded from this as it's $3.00 and they have Founder's Red Rye on tap which is a deliciously sexy experience in and of itself.)
• More books will be read. Words on a page are one of the sexiest things imaginable. Watching Dancing With the Stars to "relax" is not.

This weekend....this weekend...rumor has it kevdek and xtina are in town this weekend. Plus it'd be nice to see, well, everyone who lives a mere 30 miles north of here. I'd venture to say a trip to the Grandest of Rapids is pretty likely Saturday evening.

In one week I'm going to see Old Crow Medicine Show in Detroit.

Let the countdown begin...

six days and counting...

Stupid politics. Stupid midterms. Stupid mistakes being made a week before the election. Stupid media for picking up the stupid story. Stupid Democrats for bungling the response to the stupid story. Stupid. Stupid. Stupid.

I'm hanging on by a thread.

John McCain's now stumping for DeVos.
This makes me physically ill.

I turn into a crazy lunatic person during elections. I don't sleep. I obsessively check polls and watch the news. I also carry with me an eternal optimism that many find cute and I find emotionally devastating. I keep trying to pinpoint what happens to me. My political interests become less of hobby and more of an obsession. When the candidates or proposals I support lose, I take it personally somehow though I'm not convinced 'personally' is the best word. I'm still trying to work it out. I simultaneously love and despise this time of year. I live for elections and yet I'm repulsed by them.

See?
Crazy lunatic person.

I blame being born between Nixon's resignation and the end of the Vietnam War.

70 degrees yesterday and 40 degrees today

I believe the only way to beat this stupid cold is a self-imposed quarantine. No contact until everyone is de-germed, I say. Sheets are to be changed and everything will be disinfected. No one who is coughing, sneezing, watery-eyed, or sniffley will be allowed to enter the downstairs of the barn until futher notice.

One week from today and midterms are finished. No more ads on television. No more political commentary about offensive ads that have been pulled but get played over and over again so everyone can see them and talk about how offensive they are. No more celebrity endorsements from either side be it Michael J Fox or everyone's favorite post-9/11 mayor Giuliani (can you believe Giuliani's doing a DeVos ad? It reminded me how much I disliked him pre-9/11). No more wondering when Karl Rove is going to unleash the hounds. No more paranoia about whether or not Rove has already unleashed the hounds and those hounds are actually polls that he's somehow manipulated lulling the Democrats into a false sense of security and allowing the Republicans to eek out a win not only securing the Evil Genius Legacy of Rove but also pulling off the biggest upset since 1994 because how that party can hold onto power given the gross negligence it has displayed the past 6 years is virtually unfathomable.

My mental health needs this election season to be over.

Anyone from Michigan who wants to look at their ballot and get links to candidates and non-partisan information regarding proposals go to publius.org. It really is helpful.

I could go on and on about Flags of Our Fathers and discuss the muddled mess of a script, the convoluted message of heroism, and the so subtle directing it seemed as if no one directed it. But I won't. Go see it. Really. It's a sad story and despite it's flaws I think it's worth watching on the big screen. And yes, the opening battle sequences are all Saving Private Ryaned out. Get over it. I don't know if anyone remembers, but war is hell. The least we can do is sit through a 20 minute battle scene that illustrates that.

i don't want to talk about it

The Tigers.
Jesus Lord Almighty.
Give me strength.

So it's Friday. And therefore the beginning of the weekend. What a dilemma. Does one spend yet another evening at home watching the Tigers game or does one go out to share in the exhilaration or agonizing defeat of the outcome? It's a tough call. And tonight is my one true honest to god weekend night as Sunday I have the extreme pleasure of working. No pressure.

I had another post-apocalyptic dream thanks to the McCarthy book. Basements filled with hoards of people waiting to be eaten by cannibals and running through deep snow to escape the bad guys. Despite having been brought up on horror movies at a very young age thanks to my Dad, I have a really hard time reading scary books. My imagination just can't take it. It's a beautifully written novel, but man, it's terrifying. I stayed up until 12:30am to watch the end of the game, fell asleep and then woke up at 2:30am freaking out. I actually wished that it was time to get up because the thought of going back to sleep was too much. There was some tossing and turning. I've said it before but this time I mean it: no more McCarthy before bed. This ain't no All The Pretty Horses. This is despair and fear and starvation and loneliness and fear and ash and cold and fear and death and blood and fear.

Gray legwarmer #1 finished and I've started #2. I know I said that I was going to start Christmas presents, but I really want those gray ones finished as the fuscia is perfectly acceptable to wear about my house, but a little much with the red winter jacket I'm currently sporting (I'm on the lookout for a new winter coat--something in the fake fur vein I'm thinking--hello second hand store shopping!!!) This weekend I have made it a goal to go out and purchase the yarn I need for some of these projects. Hopefully I'll have no trouble procuring a vehicle as I'm not heading to the LYS, but rather-gulp-Michaels and Hobby Lobby. I'm thinking about afghans here, people! Honestly! I'm poor! And The Big Red Scarf that I adore was made with yarn purchased at Michaels.

Tomorrow night, of course, everyone I know is throwing a Halloween party. Well there are 2 anyway that I have been invited to. I have little choice but to attend at least one of them. It's not going to be too hard. She's made homemade peach sangria that she claims will cure all of my ills.

I got me some ills.
Bring on the sangria.

it's rude to keep fans hoping a game is going to be on when clearly it's raining like crazy. was it really necessary to wait until 10:15pm??

I'm sick. Again. And I'm sick of being sick. I've even been taking extra special care of myself lately as I've been feeling like a kindergartener this fall. I awoke this morning with a screamingly painful sore throat (no fever, Mom, so I don't think it's strep). I really shouldn't be all that surprised, I guess. It was confessed to me this morning that someone else hasn't been feeling well since Monday. Blast.

Last night I watched Me and You and Everyone We Know. There is something oddly satisfying about watching a substandard indie film. Within the first 5 minutes I was rolling my eyes and trying to convince myself that watching it wouldn't be a complete waste of 90 minutes of my life. I was right. I still didn't like it. The second half was better (there was a wee intermission), but I still think it was maybe overloved by the critics. The filmmaker is a performance artist/fiction writer who's shown work at the Guggenheim, the Whitney and The Museum of Modern Art. Taint too shabby. It was her first feature film and she made the decision to write, direct, and star in it. Yeesh. I thought the script was weak, the directing all over the place, and the performances okay. It nailed this...mood though. I don't even know if mood is the right word to use. Style I think I called it last night. The editing was pretty good and the music was close (though with weak characters it started to feel a little much). ANYWAY, if you are like me and have a good time talking about every little detail for hours after it's worth a watch.

The sweater of last year has been resurrected! I have a lovely coworker who deciphered some sketchy directions regarding the neck shaping for me. I wasn't crazy. The pattern really wasn't all that clear. I'm almost finished with the front (the back was done last year--pathetic right? That thing has been stuffed in a bag for months.) and I have both the sleeves to do which shouldn't take all that long. Then it's gotta be blocked and stitched together. I refuse to let another winter go by without having my very first sweater I knitted all by myself wearable.

I also started the very scary task of sorting my needles. Lord. I think I have about a dozen pairs of size 8 needles. It's genetic. My mom does the same thing when she buys new yarn--I can never remember which needles I have at home and I'm also foolishly thinking when I buy yarn that I'm going to need to cast on immediately before I get home and have access to my stash. Because the mess of needles were all shoved into the same bag as the aforementioned sweater, I've been forced to relocate them. They're currently a tangled mess on my futon. I just saw a great idea though. Using a soft tackle binder bag! I'm in. It's perfect for the numerous circular needles I own. I'm in.

I'm off to fetch some more tea.

walmart for president!

I, Erin, hereby swear to stop watching news conferences of G.W.B. It is completely unnecessary for me to watch that lying son of bitch smirk into the camera, lie to the American people, and attempt to remain credible internationally because I can very easily read the transcript online later in the day. It's not good for my mental health. It's not good for my blood pressure. And it is not good for my cat who ends up huddled in a corner cringing whilst I throw whatever is within reach at the tv. I watched him tell the American people that we have the mastermind of 9-11 in our custody. Really? Huh. Funny, I think I would remember you putting on a big God Bless America Show if we caught bin Laden. I watched him point to Afghanistan pre-"liberation" under the Taliban rule as an example of why securing Iraq is so important. George, I'm not sure if you just haven't been paying attention to your briefings or if there's no one around to read them to you anymore but things aren't really going so well in Afghanistan right now. Here's one of my favorite quotes:

"We must not fall prey to the sophisticated propaganda by the enemy, who is trying to undermine our confidence and make us believe that our presence in Iraq is the cause of all its problems."

George? Our presence in Iraq is the cause of all its problems. That's reality. The majority of the violence that exists in Iraq is sectarian. These are not terrorists. These are warring religious groups who spent the last 24 years being tamed by a dictator. When we invaded Iraq without a clear understanding of the culture of that country we unleashed this disaster. When we removed the "evil" dictator we opened up a conflict that has been brewing for centuries. A military solution to this problem is not going to work. Nor will attempting to unify the Shias and Sunnis with a "government." You.cannot.impose.democracy. And that is why no matter how many benchmarks and timelines and adjustments in strategy you make, this occupation will ultimately fail.

I know I'm not the only one, but man oh man have I got me some serious election fatigue. I cannot wait until this is finished. It's one of the downfalls of getting psyched about midterms so early in the game. And living in a state where one of the candidates for governor starts campaigning in April. Of course I care about the outcome, but I'm starting to feel a little more removed from it all. The Dems should take back the House. The Senate is going to be little tougher as we're looking at traditionally Republican states Missouri, Tennessee, and Virginia where we have to win 2 of the 3 to have a chance. What might save the Dems is the Republicans choice to use their formerly tried and true strategy of leaning on Christian conservatives for the votes. Though people aren't giving the Foley scandal the weight some thought they might (and rightly so, I say, though the hypocrisy still makes me crazy), Christian conservatives have been fucked over so many times by this administration they might go elsewhere. Or nowhere at all.

Yeah, I'm so clearly over the midterms!

David Brooks, one of my all time favorite conservatives, wrote a nice little piece for the NYT about Barak Obama and why he should run for president. It's worth a read. Though it's been discussed that mayhaps the young Obama is actually more interested in the #2 spot. How's about an Edwards/Obama ticket to give you a nice political hard-on?

I cannot believe Zumaya threw to 3rd last night. I can't believe it. It was Carpenter's night. Fine. Tonight we've got Bonderman.

One game. We just need one game away.

awww shucks! and i really liked it when he used to say we're gonna "stay the course"

Last night I watched Reality Bites for the first time in I don't even know how long. That movie was standard viewing for awhile with my bestfriendfromhighschool Patty. When it was showing at the dollar theatre in Burlington we'd drive her little Tercel down there once a week and spend entirely too much time discussing the merits of Troy vs Michael. Clearly you're supposed to be a fan of Troy--the unemployed philosopher/songwriter/intellectual who spends most of the movie making Lelaina feel bad about herself, insulting her new boyfriend Michael and acting like an insecure child. Michael is a weenie. There is absolutely no way around that. He's not very smart. His job is fairly lame. But every once and a while he gets it. He gets the bigger picture relationship shit that Troy completely misses because he's too busy trying to be clever. And for those of you who are either too young to have fully appreciated this movie or just wrote it off--watch it. There is a subtle satirizing of the Gen Xers that is a beautiful beautiful thing. Regardless, the viewing of this movie left me with no choice but to track down a computer immediately and write Pev. Dang me. I miss that girl. She's not officially a Canadian yet but she's been up there for a few years now. She lives in a purple house. Allegedly she's got herself a big tattoo and a nose that is pierced once again. It looks like we're going to miss each other this year as I'm not heading home until Christmas and she's making the VT appearance for Thanksgiving. Ah well. The best thing about Pev and I is that we won't see each other for years and when we finally do get together it's as if no time has passed.

What.did.I.say.on.Saturday?!? With the election 2 weeks from now, the administration is scrambling to put together some "benchmarks and milestones." Ready for the best part? It's not a change at all. It's a change in language. That's it. There will be no exit strategy nor will there be a real timeline set. It's a way for the White House to appear as if they are doing something about the Iraq problem without actually doing anything about the Iraq problem. I'm optimistic that the voting population will not be fooled.

You guys are gonna lose.
And it is about time.

Tonight it's Game 3 in St. Louis. Robertson's got himself a rough night. I'm there for you, man. Just don't screw up, okay? We just need one on the road to get us back to Detroit and Rogers. Just one.

it's monday!

This is the happiest I have been to be back at work on a Monday in a long time. It's probably because I don't have to work extra for a DVD Release Party. And things are coming together nicely for the next one. And despite a pretty fun party Saturday night, it wasn't such a stellar weekend. I have alot of life-sustaining errands to get out of the way this afternoon: grocery shopping, laundry, calling insurance companies and doctor's offices. I'll have about 4 hours to complete these tasks and I gotta say I'm on top of things. I'm pretty much living for getting these things done so I can put on some warm flannel, curl up on my couch and knit.

Speaking of....fuscia leg warmers are finished! If I was all technologied out I'd post a picture. I heart them. Muchly. They are so warm and cozy. I've already started a second pair in a much less offensive gray. I know I should really start working on some Christmas projects (!!!), but I don't have the yarn I need to do that and I do have the yarn I need to make me some more legwarmers.

I'm going to get the yarn I need today. For Christmas projects. Really.

Barak Obama said he "might" run in 2008. Now you know how much I hate to criticize politicians, but I wouldn't have done it quite like this. He's currently out there promoting a book (reminiscent of Colin Powell in '94, anyone?) and nothing boosts book sales like speculation. Anyone who knows me knows that I think Obama should absolutely, positively, 100% run in 2008. But I would have waited. Clinton's got her self a cashstash that's pretty significant and waiting until full Hillary Fatigue sets in might have been more effective. Obamamania could fizzle out pretty quickly, I fear. I know he's going to take a hit because of his lack of national political experience. For all ye who dare say it, I have 3 letters for you: G.W.B.

The administration issued a stern statement to the Iraqi government: It's time you guys stood up and took some responsibility for the security situation. I'm going to walk you through this as if you are an idiot, G.W.B. You invaded a sovereign nation. You toppled it's government. You destroyed it's infrastructure. You did this alone because everyone else in the world thought that this was a very bad idea. You are now left with a more dangerous situation than when you invaded. You foolishly keep using sweeping statements like "stay the course" and "we won't cut and run." You've lost. Everyone knows this. The insurgents know it. The American people know it. The rest of the world knows it. And I think that deep deep deep down inside your little cold heart you know it too. I know that when the Iraqi P.M. starts begging you not to leave the guilt starts setting in. It should. I hope you spend the rest of your life regretting just about every decision you've made during your presidency. But now is not the time to let your ego and your pride and your guilt get in the way . Get. Out. Now.

Kenny Rogers is my new hero. And smudge or no smudge, the Cardinals still couldn't hit what he was throwing their way.

but...but..i don't really feel like watching baseball tonight!

It's game one of the World Series tonight and though the mighty Tigers are in, I seem to be having some trouble mustering much enthusiasm for the game. And it's not as if I have a wealth of superfantastic social opportunities that are preventing me from participating in this monumental event. Yeesh. There was talk of The Elbow Room, but no one really wants to drive allllllll the waaaaaay to G.R. Saugytauck was mentioned, but it's probably going to be really crowded and the only place I'd want to sit is at the bar and the chances of that happening are pretty slim. Oh woe is me.

My day off yesterday was not a complete loss despite the unexpected realization that I had a doctor's appointment at 9:45am. I was home and alone by noon (there's a new cat on the property at the front house--Max, a white persian male that's crabby, cranky, and really cute). I watched disc 1 of Anne of Green Gables and knit. At 2 I decided to "read" which of course turned into a nap. At 5 I started making stuffed shells. At 6 I was drinking a glass of red wine, eating crackers and cheese and waiting for the shells to finish. At 7 I was sobbing over the death of Matthew (watching disc 2 of Anne of Green Gables) and managing to reverse the pattern I was knitting which reminded me that drinking and knitting is dangerous.

Watch really carefully over the next few weeks and see if reality doesn't start setting in with the Bush administration. Right now they're saying that they're willing to change their "tactics" but not their strategy: short-term shifts are needed but the long-term goal of doing whatever it is we're supposed to be doing in Iraq is remaining the same. I won't be surprised if by November 7th there is a tentative plan for some sort of limited withdrawal announced. Iraq is going to be the deciding factor in the midterms and if the Republicans want any hope of holding onto Congress they're going to have to face that the policies of the administration are wrong. Which of course means that the administration is going to have to admit that it's wrong.

Which of course will only happen when hell freezes over.

Disregard what I said.

#9...#9...#9...

Spectating 13.1 miles is harder than running 13.1 miles. Especially if you are the official 2006 Greater Hartford Marathon Digital Photographer and get some good shots of your sister and dad, but the best you can do for your bil is a shot of his back. And shots of him waaaaaay in the distance. I honestly got so excited to see him on pace for where he wanted to be that I just randomly hit the button. That would be why I also got a sweet shot of the pavement. Ahem. But seriously, the race was great. I had tears in my eyes as the race began. Hartford was my first race ever. And to be able to be there to see my sister and bil run in their 1st 1/2 is something I wouldn't have missed for anything. I didn't sleep much, but I spent time with some of my favorite people in the world. I also drank me some Magic Hat and some Long Trail. And ate some killer veggie lasagna and chili. And got dubbed Poison Ivy by a 4 year old Batman. And was defeated by him in a mighty battle. And went for a run with my dad and co. The airline experience was less than stellar. I have never been on a flight with so much turbulence where the stewardess came on just as we were landing to remind us if we needed to make an emergency landing to be sure to leave our carry on bags behind. And, of course, my luggage didn't make it from Chicago until the wee hours of the morning on Tuesday. Regardless, it was wonderful. My heart belongs on the east coast. Along with the rest of me.

I returned to the mighty midwest excited that the Tigers were in the World Series and the Lions won their first game of the season. It was touch and go as to whether or not anyone would let me back into this state. My dazzling personality and good looks were enough, I think. Saturday night will be the big test of just how much bad luck I can bring to Michigan professional sports.

The DVD release party was a smashing success. So smashing, in fact, that by 6:10pm we had reached the 200 person capacity. I'm waiting to hear officially, but it looks like I'll be adding a second earlier showing of the films sans popcorn. I have some mixed feelings about this and not just because I'm the one who has to pull a second show off. I'm of the opinion that library programs exist to get people into the library. The greatest success last night wasn't that 200 people got to watch Over the Hedge and eat free popcorn. It was that over 100 people couldn't get in so they ended up going to the AV and Children's Departments to check out materials. People were registered for cards who wouldn't have been in the library had it not been for the program. And if anyone has a fabulous idea for a non-messy, non-carpet staining snack that kids will actually eat let me know. I've been told that the 4pm show needs a snack. I've also been told by the same individual that if stains continue to show up on the carpet it's coming out of my programming budget. Imagine for a minute just how ridiculous that conversation was.

So I'm back. And ready for action.

i think i'm a droid

And that's all I'm willing to say about that.

Suppose you have someone in your life. This someone is going to your home when you are working at night in order to watch the beginning of the Tigers game and possibly some Clone Wars/Star Wars cartoon thing (which, coincidently, I actually watched 30 minutes of and came to the conclusion that I'm missing out on some pop culture stuff because I don't have cable. And the cartoon is completely unnecessary as most of the issues addressed in said cartoon, which is intended to bridge the gap between episodes 2 and 3, are actually alluded to in episode 2. And 3. George Lucas just wanted to make a cartoon and knew a bunch of geeky people would be into it. Oh. My. God. I cannot believe I just wrote all of that.) and enjoy an adult beverage. And before heading to your home the 2 of you are conversing via email. And it becomes increasingly obvious to the someone in your life that you are mildly stressed out about going out of town and missing the beginning of the Tigers game and having a pile of dishes to do and having spent the day explaining for the gazillionth time how a library is funded and how you're not just being a bitch by denying them a library card if they don't have their current address on their ID. If this someone at this moment offers to do the dishes they had no part in dirtying and then offers to pick you up at 9pm with nonwork clothes and then offers to drive you to Saugatuck to watch the Tigers game so you can actually be able to differentiate between the ball and the bad reception it is probably in your best interest to not only take them up on their offer but realize mayhaps having this person around for a while is a good idea.

So.
How 'bout them Tigers last night?

It's been suggested that it's probably for the best that I'm heading east for the weekend as I'm notoriously bad luck for Michigan teams. I'm starting to wonder if I may have broken the curse as I've watched the past 2 games and things have worked out unexpectedly well. The next 3 games are in Detroit where the fans are hungry and the abandoned buildings are just waiting to be burned in a celebratory fashion.

I know you're all waiting with bated breath wondering about the last LYS and whether or not I was able to procure the much coveted 12" #8 needles. I was not. Though I take back what I said about them not being very knitterly. They didn't mock my request and in fact went digging through a new shipment of needles for me. Alas, it was not to be. I'm now thinking I'm going to be forced to make this little project on double-pointed needles. Which will suck as I find them to be awkward and I don't want to end up with the much dreaded ladder at the join given how much I love this wool. And though it has been confirmed I am able to bring needles on the plane, I'm not sure how they're going to feel about 5 double pointed-needles. I'm back to square one where I'll be knitting flat and seaming. Or going with a completely different pattern which makes me sad in my heart.

12" #8 circulars doesn't seem like too much ask for.

Ah well.
Someone in my life did my dishes for me.

it's really more of a rant and less of a post so scroll down if you want to read the real post of the day

Why in the name of GOD is it so difficult to find 12" #8 circular needles?!? Over my supper break in gale force winds I traversed the 4 blocks to my never-let-me-down LYS. Not only did they not have the needles, the guy actually convinced me that I was a lunatic, that 12" needles didn't exist and got me to purchase 16" for $7.25. Desperate to start the legwarmers, I bought them. I've now been on the website of LYS #2 and THEY don't have 12" either. I'm down to the last LYS that I never use because they don't have a website, their stuff is way overpriced and they seem all snooty and not knitterly but tomorrow I have no choice. My only other option is--I can't believe I'm even considering this--the big bad box stores on the north end of town.

I shudder at the thought.

Oh, Mr. Yarn Shop?

I'm not crazy.

if you have midterm election fatigue, be warned...

DeVos vs Granholm Round 2:

He is a terrible, horrible, no-good, very bad debater. I don't think anyone on either side of the aisle would refute that. I've been reading some comments online about the debate last night and really enjoy the pro-DeVos peeps. Here's some of my favs:

"I'm not voting for an eloquent speaker, I'm voting for someone who will bring changes to Michigan and get us in the market again. Granholm hasn't kept half of her promises and yes, she did speak well but talk is not something I am looking for, action is. DeVos may not have done well in the debate but it's the way he will change the economy in Michigan that interests me."

DeVos has yet to say anything of substance regarding his economic plan. Even when given the opportunity last night to speak on the "134 ideas" he has, he passed. I'm guessing because he had nothing to do with actually writing the plan and has no idea what is even in the plan. Regardless, it seems to me that mayhaps campaigning is the time for candidates to do exactly what Granholm is doing: talk. Be specific about your ideas. Articulate very clearly what you intend to do. And as far as Granholm not keeping campaign promises: have you ever played the big bad game of politics? You don't honestly want me to go back to the past 2 presidential campaigns and remind you what G.W.B. promised, do you? Mr. I'm-a-Uniter-not-a Divider?
Right.

"I'm beginning to think that she will never take ownership of the problems the state has and work to address them. Michigan needs more jobs, a more diversified economy and better leadership. Broad platitudes on the subjects will not cut it any more."

That is exactly what Granholm's trying to do and ironically "broad platitudes" are exactly how DeVos is campaigning. Diversifying an economy that has been based almost solely on manufacturing cars for the past 100 years takes alot of time. It definitely takes more than 4 years. We have to change the perception of what constitutes a "good job." We have to re-train workers and invest in higher education. The U.S. will no longer be a country that makes things. We will be a country of innovation and ideas. Our economy will be service and information based. Of course we have the highest unemployment rate in the country. Our entire economy was manufacturing based and Granholm's plan-which I think she eloquently laid out last night-addresses that directly. Saying that "Michigan needs a business man" or "We need leadership" without explaining specifics is all DeVos has. I'd call that broad platitudes.

"She was left a poor economy ( should have beeen upfront about that during her last campaign), Going to fix our healhcare system, So far no improvement (we are still paying the tab for the uninsured and those who abuse the system). We need a change, I dont care if Devos is as articulate as Granholmas long as he can get the job done and if he doesnt well fire him in four years. Look we are at the botom of the barrel while the rest of the country is humming along, we are loosing jobs and students to other states that have their act together. Lets throw the bum out and give Devos a chance!!! Hes got my vote, I already know what Granholm is capable of, Blameing everyone else!"

The health care situation all over this country is deplorable. The only state that is really trying to radically change how it works is Massachusetts and I certainly applaud them for it. Because the economy was in such bad shape when she took office and only looking to get worse health care got put on the back burner. There's no money in the budget right now. There it is. Instead she used whatever money she had to invest in education. You know, schools? Where people learn to read and write and spell? (Cheap shot. I couldn't help it. It's the losing/loosing thing that really gets me.)

"I am voting for a change and if Granholm wins again, its time to relocate to Texas!"

Please. Go to Texas.

In other news, I'm heading to Connecticut this weekend to watch some of the family run a half marathon. I've flown alot and yet I always get a little anxious. It's not the flying and dying in a horrible accident that gets me. I have no control over that. It's the preparations--the doing of the laundry, the cleaning of the house, the making sure the cat is going to get fed, the trip to the airport, the standing in many lines, the hurrying up and waiting of it all. You'll all be very happy to know that I'm able to bring my knitting needles on board with me. Funny, isn't it? I still can't carry on my big bottle of shampoo, but 12 inch knitting needles are fine. Anyway, I'm looking forward to everything else about the trip. I'm getting me a haircut and I'm getting me a massage with my sister. I'm sitting down and chatting up some religion and politics with my Dad and I'm knitting like a crazy woman with my Mom. No one there knows this yet, but there will be some baseball watching as the Tigers series will be wrapping up this weekend. And most importantly there will be beer.

Long Trail and Magic Hat.
Soon we shall be reunited.

monday morning

Remember in 2002 G.W.B. gave a little speech that is lovingly referred to as "The Axis of Evil" speech? And in this groundbreaking speech he named Iraq, Iran and North Korea as the big 3 evil? And remember about a year later we invaded Iraq because though there was zero evidence indicating such, G.W.B. claimed that Iraq had not abandoned their chemical and nuclear program? And in 2003 as the coalition of the willing was declaring victory and looking for Hussein, North Korea pulled out of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty and completely pointless 6-party talks began? Remember how some people thought that maybe the administration was focusing on the wrong axis? That maybe a bad dictator with no weapons program was something we didn't need to focus on but maybe a slightly crazy leader with nuclear capabilities was something we should take a look at? I know that charging into war is a hell of alot sexier than diplomacy, but it seems to me we wouldn't have gotten to this point if the U.S. hadn't gotten distracted. The remedy to Kim Jong-Il's actions will not be of the military variety as the U.S. is the biggest and the best and we're a little pre-occupied. So we're looking at sanctions of some kind which will have virtually no effect on Kim Jong-Il as he's already allowed tens of thousands (possibly millions) of his own people die of starvation in the last decade in order to advance his nuclear program.

Nothing is fucked here.

Waking up Monday morning after too little sleep to this bit of news put me in a mood. An angry, depressed, frustrated and tired mood. I alternate between rage and tears. Thankfully I have a ton of stuff to do this afternoon which should keep me busy and my mind occupied. No need to cry over spilled radioactivity.

I saw the new Scorsese film, The Departed, last night. I liked it. Alot. And suprisingly it wasn't Jack Nicholson that got my blood pumping. He was Jack. Same performance he's been giving for the past 30 years. What did it for me was DiCaprio, Mark Walberg, Alec Baldwin, Martin Sheen and even Matt Damon. It's a compelling story with decent characters and lots of twists and turns. It's really violent and was nice to see people getting the shit kicked out them so Mom you're going to want to stay away from this one and Dad go out and see it. I like to think of this film as the triumphant return of Scorsese. I didn't see The Aviator, but I did see Gangs of New York and hated every moment of the over-directed nonsense. In this one, Scorsese has a nice light hand with a lot of good moments. I really like this time of year as this is when the real Oscar contenders start trickling into our theaters.

I have a plan for the Democratic Party. Assuming they can take back the House and the Senate, I say let's roll up our sleeves and start looking forward. Let's look at a plan to get us out of Iraq. Let's do what we can to resecure Afghanistan. Let's start talking about investing in higher education as this country will no longer be the manufacturing safe haven it once was. Let's come up with a non-market solution to the health care crisis. Let's start decreasing our dependence on oil in particular oil from the middle east and come up with alternative fuel sources. It's a common sense, very Democratic Party plan.

What I'm afraid we will do is get bogged down in retribution. The first thing the Democratic Leadership will do is go after G.W.B. I really really really think this is 100% the wrong direction to go in. I'm angry. I'm so angry I let that man's actions ruin my days. I spend hours enraged at what he has done to this country-OUR country. What he's done makes Watergate look like a practical joke and Clinton look like just another stupid politician who got caught. G.W.B. is a criminal. But going after him won't bring our servicemen and women home. And going after him won't make the ozone layer repair itself or our children become smarter. It will be politics as usual and you can bet your ass it will turn off voters. Let's be the party of leadership and the future. Not a party of the past.

Cue swelling campaign music.

It's clearly midterm election season.

It's supposed to snow here by the end of the week.

i'm a live and let live kinda girl but if you get involved with a german shepherd it's over

I don't want to curse myself or anything, but in a mere few short hours I will be officially finished with the 7 days straight of library hell. I have survived 2 illnesses, lots of rain, the first DVD release party, and many many many irritating patron and co-worker interactions.

First up:

Drinks with Molly. We're off to Boatwerks instead of Butch's for a change. Now I know it's a little pretentious to have a mission statement for a restaurant especially one that says this

"Our mission is to create a place that reminds you of simpler times, of vacations on the lake, carefree summers and that first time learning to water-ski. You'll be able to relax and have fun at Boatwerks... it will be like taking a mini vacation every time you're here."

but the goat cheese crostini is really good. Molly's looking for a mojito and I'm thinking an ice cold Grey Goose martini with a twist. But I'll be open to a specialty drink menu too.

Next up:

Eat the beejezus out of a veggie Jimmy John's sub. I dream of this piece of sandwich art. And tonight I get to enjoy it.

Followed by:

Deep chilling out. Maybe some Scrabble outside. Maybe a nature walk. Maybe some Season 2 of Arrested Development disc 1 (finally!). We'll just have to see.

And finally:

Well that's still kind of up in the air too but I'm thinking there will be a short drive (I bet it's close enough to walk...) down South Shore Drive for a bonfire at the very least and some checking in of the score of the Tigers game.

Tomorrow someone is coming at 11 am to fix my broken windows (!!!!!!!!!!). At 4:30pm the U of M vs Michigan game is on as is game 4 of the Tigers/Yankees series. Honestly, who planned that?!? I'm thinking I'm going to go with the football and check in on the baseball game periodically. Tomorrow night. Huh. I have no idea. I know there was talk of a bonfire at the compound and I told the Berghoef to alert the urban jetset crowd in the Grandest of Rapids, but I'm not sure if he did. Confidentially, dear reader, I'm sort of hoping to make a trip to the big city for the evening. I haven't been to Sazerac in forever. Or Founders. Or the garage. Or Cambridge House. Then again I am a fickle woman. By tomorrow night I could be ready for a bonfire at mi casa.

With my renewed interest in knitting I've been checking out many a knitting blog lately. I really like Crazy Aunt Purl and Yarn Harlot. They give me hope in my time of darkness and uncertainty. Will I EVER finish that blasted lacy scarf? Will my hands EVER feel the perfect touch of wool again? Plus I can completely relate to many of the bizarre and quirky things knitters have in common like abandoning a project when you are within striking distance. And shedding tears of frustration when you have spent hours working on something only to discover it looks like a ratty mess and then realizing that you are shedding tears over something you supposedly enjoy doing.

It's a perfectly neurotic hobby for a perfectly neurotic person like myself.

super trouper lights are gonna find me shining like the sun smiling, having fun feeling like a number one

Last night the Stockard Channing home remedy seemed to work. I curled up on my couch with a mug full of whiskey, hot water, lemon and honey. I swaddled myself in fleece, the big red scarf, and a quilt. I watched about an hour and a half of Star Wars Episode 3. I passed out-book in hand, of course-and awoke this morning at 7:20am. I told myself that after a very hot shower if I still didn't feel well I could call in as no one expected me to come in today anyway. Imagine my surprise when I actually did feel pretty good post-shower. I even walked to work. I've had just about everyone tell me I shouldn't be here, but I'm fever-free and being pretty psychotic with the hand washing and the anti-bacterialing. I'm stuffy and coughing and tired. But I'm here. And on day 6 of 7 days in a row.

The weekend is within my grasp.

I did end up ripping out the lacy scarf and I'm finally happy with the pattern and the width, but I'm so sick of working with the yarn. It's a hand-dyed silk thing that's all noveltied out. I keep gazing at the wool I purchased last week longingly. I just want to push through and finish this project. I need to check if I'm able to bring my knitting needles on the plane for next weekend as when all those crazy runners are out running 13.1 miles my Mom and I can find a nice bookstore/cafe and sit and knit like the crazy addicted women we are.

I've started reading "The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time" by Mark Haddon. It's a book I avoided due to it's book club quality, but Peter's reading his new book and mentioned that he liked this one. I like it. The stilted candence of the prose could be gimmicky, but it's not. The fact that it's written in first person with a very specific character could get annoying or cliched, but it doesn't. It reminds me of--and I can't believe I'm going to say this--but it reminds me of how I felt the first time I read James Frey's "Million Little Pieces." Though I'm not a drug addict in recovery, Frey wrote such a compelling and specific first person narrative it made me feel as if I could completely identify with him. Haddon writes this 15 year old autistic boy and makes him so accessible. I've also been reading this Phillip K. Dick "The Man in the High Castle" which is this crazy trip of a science fiction book that imagines the world if Germany and Japan had won WWII and all of the characters in the book are reading a best-selling novel that imagines a world if the Allies had won WWII. And nonfiction wise I've decided to read the much talked about as of late Bob Woodward Trilogy of G.W.B. I love that the administration encouraged the American people to read the first 2 and are saying that the last one is less than accurate.

In the annoyingly familiar famous words of The Rolling Stones:
You can't always get what you want.

First things first.

I watched the debates. Twice. First on PBS and then on FOX. A couple of observations:

• Dick DeVos is frighteningly similar to G.W.B. From the cadence of his voice to that deer in headlights look he gets when he's halfway through something he's saying but he realizes he actually has no idea what he's saying because alot of what he's saying is substance-less catchphrases.
• Jennifer Granholm flung mud. I thought it was cheap and unnecessary.
• Granholm talked substance and numbers; DeVos talked vaguely and sweepingly.

I guess because he framed the race I never thought about how silly it is that she's campaigning on 4 years as governor and he's campaigning on years of being the CEO of a company. Apples and oranges, people, that'd be apples and oranges. He's doing a pretty good job of making it seem as if she's just not doing enough when in reality there's very little she can do with things like trade agreements and various constitutional issues. It was interesting to watch the 2 of them frame this nationally--name dropping Trent Lott and Newt Gingrich and Bill Clinton. It's sad really that state elections-where everyday citizens have the most power-are usually overlooked and instead of focusing on issues that are important to the people candidates still feel the need to make things bigger and feel more inaccessible.

The biggest scariest thing?

The similarities between DeVos and G.W.B. aren't just in their ratfaced appearance. G.W.B. had zero political experience before becoming governor of Texas. He was governor for only 5 years before he became president. He was a made politician by the Republican Party. He came from a family of unbelievable privilege and yet still managed to capture the good ol'boy vote by seeming to be down to earth.

Michigan does not want to be the state that launched DeVos' national political career. Because no one spends 20 million dollars of their own money to stop at the governor's seat. He's got his eye on something much bigger.

Second things second:

I'm sick of hearing about Foley. I hate to think that the only reason we're going to win back the house this year is because a very sad gay man acted inappropriately. I hate the moral hypocrisy of the right as much as anyone. But I hate the left's hypocrisy just as much. We were so pissed about Clinton. And here we are doing the same thing.

Third things third:

The DVD release party was a success. We had fewer people than expected which we're chalking up to some publicity confusion and the fact that it was rated PG-13. Which is totally the way to go. I don't think I can fully express the huge difference between a G rated film where parents drop off 5 year old kids or stay to "watch" the movie and then talk loudly to other parents leaving kids the impression that it's okay to be disrespectful or little animals who throw popcorn and run in and out of the auditorium willy-nilly. Unfortunately the rest of the movies are all PG or G so I got to ease into things, but I'm sure chaos is right around the corner.

Fourth things fourth:

It's not a cold. It's the weather. It's stress. It's allergies.

I'm not sick.

"and when i awoke i was alone, this bird had flown."

Today Norwegian Wood is my favorite Beatles' song.

It's raining here. Big rain. Thunderstorms and downpours. The kind of rain that makes one not want to leave the comfort of their homes. Sadly work beckoned this morning as did the storm. I was up at 5:30am and under the impression my house was being attacked by lightening bolts. It's probably because I'm an Angel of Sin, at least according to my neighbor who went so far as to purchase me a tank top saying so. I can dig it.

The highly-esteemed Western Michigan poet Mr. Peter Berghoef is published in this month's issue of Unlikely Stories. Check it out.

For those of you who are as perversely obsessed with this fall election as myself and who live in Michigan, tonight is the first debate between DeVos and Granholm. I believe it's going to be televised on FOX and PBS though right now my local PBS station is saying Antique Roadshow is on at 8pm. I'll watch. I'll listen. I'll scream at the tv and get frustrated about things I have zero control over and wish I lived in a country that valued leadership and was truly representative of the people and not corporations or manipulated by the media.

Good thing I have that padded room in my future. The one where I'm in control of everything.

It's going to be a big week at work as tomorrow is the first DVD release party. Woo. Hoo. I'm psyched. It's going to be fine. I come in at 1pm and pretty much make popcorn for 5 hours which will leave me coated in a fine layer of oil and seasoning.

I'll be delicious.