Teeth
So, yes, it's a movie about Vagina Dentata and, yes, there are plenty of scenes of male genitalia getting removed. But, it's still worth a look. Darkly comic and lots of good scenes to make you squirm. Or, at least make the guys squirm. I really enjoyed it.
Diary of the Dead
Diary of the Dead is the 5th zombie movie from George Romero and it is a story that reverts back to the beginning of the zombie infestation. We get to see another small group of people make their way through the world that is slowly being overrun by the undead, but this time, we get to also see how they record the events that are happening around them. I had no problem with the 'film within a film' aspect of this and thought it was handled pretty well. I also thought there was plenty of good zombie action - the highlight probably being the scenes taking place on an Amish farm. Definitely better than Land of the Dead and Day of the Dead.
The Dark Night
So, pretty much everybody has weighed in on this one, but I'll just say that I really enjoyed it. I've heard some complaints about the length, but I didn't notice the length the first time I saw it. I was completely involved in the story and never felt things drag at all. I thought that they made the right choice by not making the movie all about The Joker and letting him monopolize screen time. Having him simply be an instigator was a novel way to handle the character and allowed the writers to move along ideas about Batman and the people around him. I'm curious to see what comes next.
That will do it for now, still plenty to come...
Sunday, December 14, 2008
Trans-Siberian
First, I really hate the Steelers.....
Anyway, we watched Trans-Siberian last night, which is a Hitchockian thriller that takes place on the Trans-Siberian Railroad. It was pretty good and worth a look.
Anyway, we watched Trans-Siberian last night, which is a Hitchockian thriller that takes place on the Trans-Siberian Railroad. It was pretty good and worth a look.
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Jeff's Best of 2008
Since everybody likes to read a "Best Of" list at the end of the year, I thought I would throw my hat into the ring and create one myself. This isn't going to be a list focused on only one thing, such as music, but I'm going to try to fill it with things that I thought were great about 2008 (which rhymes). However, I'm going to start with a cd. Also, the numbering is arbitrary and does not indicate any ranking, other than the order in which I thought of them.
Portishead - Third
Portishead's first cd in over 10 years was, I thought, particularly interesting and challenging. So, really, it was just like the Portishead of 10 years ago. It's nothing that is '10 years in the making' or anything along the lines of Guns N Roses Chinese Democracy that had been worked on over that long hiatus. The album is definitely rooted in the past year. It has a definite Portishead sound, long spaces between notes and sounds. Sometimes mechanical. Lots of samples. But, I thought it also took those staples and did something new with them.
The song 'Machine Gun' is a good example. It takes a sparse arrangement and mechanical sound and pushes them so that the drum line is so obviously mechanical that you automatically think of a factory and production line. The vocals sound as if they are recorded in the largest space possible and only the chill of the higher notes is left. The only time the song sounds organic, and this is a little paradoxical, is at the end when an electronic keyboard line enters.
Now, if only they would tour North America.
Here's some samples.
Click to hear Machine Gun
Click to hear The Rip
Portishead - Third
Portishead's first cd in over 10 years was, I thought, particularly interesting and challenging. So, really, it was just like the Portishead of 10 years ago. It's nothing that is '10 years in the making' or anything along the lines of Guns N Roses Chinese Democracy that had been worked on over that long hiatus. The album is definitely rooted in the past year. It has a definite Portishead sound, long spaces between notes and sounds. Sometimes mechanical. Lots of samples. But, I thought it also took those staples and did something new with them.
The song 'Machine Gun' is a good example. It takes a sparse arrangement and mechanical sound and pushes them so that the drum line is so obviously mechanical that you automatically think of a factory and production line. The vocals sound as if they are recorded in the largest space possible and only the chill of the higher notes is left. The only time the song sounds organic, and this is a little paradoxical, is at the end when an electronic keyboard line enters.
Now, if only they would tour North America.
Here's some samples.
Click to hear Machine Gun
Click to hear The Rip
Saturday, November 29, 2008
The Mist
Watched The Mist last night. This is movie adaptation of one of Steven King's novellas. It's found in the Skeleton Crew compilation of short stories.
The Mist is one of my favorite Steven King stories, so I was excited that there was going to be a movie. When the movie finally came out, I heard a lot of bad things about it. So, I skipped it. After it's release on DVD, I started reading some good reviews. Most of these, however, said to check out the black and white version of the movie that comes on the bonus disc. Which is what I did.
First, it's not the greatest movie ever. But, it's definitely not a 'bad' movie. It's a monster movie. That's it. Maybe that's why it works better in black and white, because it is like an old monster movie. I didn't watch any of the color version, so I don't know for sure, but I would guess that the preference for black and white also has something to do with monster special effects. Going by other films, CGI monsters just aren't scary. In black and white, I have to say the monster effects looked pretty good and they don't have that CGI 'look' that we can all spot a mile away.
So, if you like a good monster film, with some pretty suspenseful sequences, then go ahead and watch it. It does have a very bleak ending, much worse than what is in the original novella. But, it works. Any kind of happy ending would have just been unsatisfying.
The Mist is one of my favorite Steven King stories, so I was excited that there was going to be a movie. When the movie finally came out, I heard a lot of bad things about it. So, I skipped it. After it's release on DVD, I started reading some good reviews. Most of these, however, said to check out the black and white version of the movie that comes on the bonus disc. Which is what I did.
First, it's not the greatest movie ever. But, it's definitely not a 'bad' movie. It's a monster movie. That's it. Maybe that's why it works better in black and white, because it is like an old monster movie. I didn't watch any of the color version, so I don't know for sure, but I would guess that the preference for black and white also has something to do with monster special effects. Going by other films, CGI monsters just aren't scary. In black and white, I have to say the monster effects looked pretty good and they don't have that CGI 'look' that we can all spot a mile away.
So, if you like a good monster film, with some pretty suspenseful sequences, then go ahead and watch it. It does have a very bleak ending, much worse than what is in the original novella. But, it works. Any kind of happy ending would have just been unsatisfying.
Don Herche 1954-2008
This past Monday, Don Herche passed away. Don was the owner of Public Opinion Research and my boss for 10 years. Don was the uncle of a good high school friend, Eric Crews, and it was through Eric that I first met Don and eventually came to work for him.
I know that I learned a lot from Don. Yes, I learned specific things about survey research or computer programming, but also much bigger lessons. I recently realized that it was because of Don that I learned how to teach myself how to learn new software. It was also because of Don that I learned how to work independently and how to solve problems on my own. These weren't easy lessons to learn and I know that, at the time, I was not happy in the situations where I needed to learn them to succeed. But, they have definitely paid off over time.
Don was a unique person. This was very much evident at the memorial service in his honor that we attended today. He affected many people in his life, all for the best.
I didn't have any contact with Don after I left POR. I regret that I didn't contact him occasionally and catch up. I had finally gotten to the point where I recognized that I should contact him, when I learned that he had been stricken with cancer again and was dying.
So, Don, I didn't get a chance to tell you this in person, but, thanks. I learned a lot from you. I have a lot of good memories from my days as your employee and I know now that not many people would say that about their former boss. I realized that all those times that were so frustrating to me were usually because I needed to learn something new or learn how to get along with someone who had a different way of doing things than I did.
I know that I learned a lot from Don. Yes, I learned specific things about survey research or computer programming, but also much bigger lessons. I recently realized that it was because of Don that I learned how to teach myself how to learn new software. It was also because of Don that I learned how to work independently and how to solve problems on my own. These weren't easy lessons to learn and I know that, at the time, I was not happy in the situations where I needed to learn them to succeed. But, they have definitely paid off over time.
Don was a unique person. This was very much evident at the memorial service in his honor that we attended today. He affected many people in his life, all for the best.
I didn't have any contact with Don after I left POR. I regret that I didn't contact him occasionally and catch up. I had finally gotten to the point where I recognized that I should contact him, when I learned that he had been stricken with cancer again and was dying.
So, Don, I didn't get a chance to tell you this in person, but, thanks. I learned a lot from you. I have a lot of good memories from my days as your employee and I know now that not many people would say that about their former boss. I realized that all those times that were so frustrating to me were usually because I needed to learn something new or learn how to get along with someone who had a different way of doing things than I did.
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Just in case
Just in case you've never seen any of these. Here's a bunch of Talking Heads videos. So much more than just an advertisement for the band.
see more at www.mtvmusic.com
see more at www.mtvmusic.com
Sunday, November 23, 2008
Planning a comeback
This blog is not dead. I will start posting again. Just been busy and lacking inspiration. Please check back soon!
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
A Political Moment
This won't probably change anyone's opinion, but I thought this was a good endorsement by Powell and worth watching.
Of course he still has to answer for that pile of horseshit that he presented at the UN in 2003....
Of course he still has to answer for that pile of horseshit that he presented at the UN in 2003....
Sunday, October 19, 2008
Sunday, October 5, 2008
A wild one
The Catonsville Stars defeated the Elicott City Patriots yesterday, 26-24, in a wild game in Elkridge. This was one of the most exciting games we've been to so far. The first half was pretty listless, with neither team getting very far. However, some individual efforts put the Stars up 12 to 0 at half time. The second half was a completely different story. The Patriots returned to the field determined to score and by the fourth quarter were ahead of the Stars 14 to 12. Then, in the fourth quarter, everything went nuts. The Stars really turned it on and started blocking and playing hard. The Patriots scored again, putting them further ahead 22 to 12. Then, on the kick-off one of the Stars ran it back for the touchdown, bringing them closer, 19 to 22. The Patriots were able to kick a field goal (only 2 points in little league) making their lead 24 to 19. But, the Stars got the ball back and in the final seconds of the game, scored another touchdown and extra point, to get the win, 26-24.
Like I said, this was one of the best games so far. The parents were going wild and they boys were having a great time. This is when kids' sports is so much more fun and meaningful than watching NFL on TV.
Lacey and I watched Forgetting Sarah Marshall this weekend. It was pretty good. Not completely hilarious like 40 Year Old Virgin or Knocked Up, but it was enjoyable. Worth a look.
Like I said, this was one of the best games so far. The parents were going wild and they boys were having a great time. This is when kids' sports is so much more fun and meaningful than watching NFL on TV.
Lacey and I watched Forgetting Sarah Marshall this weekend. It was pretty good. Not completely hilarious like 40 Year Old Virgin or Knocked Up, but it was enjoyable. Worth a look.
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Go Stars!
Jay's football team defeated the Elkridge Hurricanes 18 to 0 last Saturday. They are now 3 and 1 on the season and getting better with each game. Jay's been playing on the offensive line mostly, but got to run the ball a few times in this past game. He says he will be doing that more often. This Saturday's game is against Damascus. Here's some pictures.
Jay (number 83) on the line.
Blocking for the runner.
"Yeah, get some, chump!"
Not Jay, but check out this tackle.
Worst. Kick-off. Ever.
Jay's in the backfield.
Running with the ball (he only got a few yards, but that's ok.)
Throwing blocks.
Blocking for the runner.
"Yeah, get some, chump!"
Not Jay, but check out this tackle.
Worst. Kick-off. Ever.
Jay's in the backfield.
Running with the ball (he only got a few yards, but that's ok.)
Throwing blocks.
Monday, September 22, 2008
I Am The Third Revelation
Just a short movie review. We watched There Will Be Blood over the weekend. I really enjoyed it. Daniel Day-Lewis' acting was phenomenal - there was nothing but his character in the movie, no sign of his true personality in any way. The cinematography was beautiful and I never loss interest in the characters. The ending seemed almost separated from the rest of the movie, but was amazing for it's slow burn towards complete derangement and brutality. The title of this post comes from that part of the movie.
I can see why some people wouldn't like this film - mainly due to it's length and (mostly) unlikeable characters. I'm not sure if it's a film that needs to be mined for great meaning, just enjoyed.
The film version Choke, one of my favorite Chuck Palhaniuk books, comes out this weekend. I hope it's good.
I can see why some people wouldn't like this film - mainly due to it's length and (mostly) unlikeable characters. I'm not sure if it's a film that needs to be mined for great meaning, just enjoyed.
The film version Choke, one of my favorite Chuck Palhaniuk books, comes out this weekend. I hope it's good.
David Byrne Concert
Lacey and I went to see David Byrne at the Lyric Opera House last Wednesday. We both really enjoyed the concert. It was great to (finally) hear Talking Heads songs performed live, which all sounded excellent. The musicians were supported by a trio of dancers that moved around the stage in a variety of styles. Usually, I'm not all that interested in dancers, but I thought they did a great job of adding to the performance instead of being a distraction or just looking silly.
Anyway, here's a video from the concert to check out. I didn't take this, just found it on youtube. I thought the way the video is distorted actually made it look pretty cool. Unfortunately, there's some people talking, so the audio gets spoiled by that. This is from another earlier show.
Here's another from the show we saw.
Anyway, here's a video from the concert to check out. I didn't take this, just found it on youtube. I thought the way the video is distorted actually made it look pretty cool. Unfortunately, there's some people talking, so the audio gets spoiled by that. This is from another earlier show.
Here's another from the show we saw.
Sunday, September 21, 2008
Amanda Palmer
Here's two videos from Amanda Palmer's (The Dresden Dolls) new solo album, Who Killed Amanda Palmer. Watch the first then the second.
Sunday, September 14, 2008
Reviews and more Reviews
First, let's get the fun stuff out of the way. Jay's football team has won two in a row, defeating Westmister 13-0 yesterday. It was a good game. Both teams were pretty evenly matched, but Catonsville, admittedly, got lucky when their running back ran 80 yards (!) for a touchdown. The defense also had an interception that they ran in for a touchdown. Without those two, it probably would have been a 0-0 tie. Our offensive line needs a lot of work, as they couldn't protect the quarterback or running backs long enough for them to get anything more than 2 yards. The defense looked great.
So, I've finished the Age of American Unreason and The Great Derangement, both books that examine the state of our current culture. I highly recommend both. The Great Derangement gives one of the most accurate pictures of what goes on in fundamentalist churches and some of the downright weird stuff that they do. If you don't know, I spent some time as a born-again Christian, so I have first-hand experience with the scenes described in the book. So, if you are curious about what the "Evangelical" and/or "Fundamentalist" thing is all about, I recommend checking it out.
However, it does go beyond a simple "behind closed doors" look. Matt Taibbi attempts to frame the fundamentalists and, as an opposing view, 9/11 truth conspiracy theorists as reactions to our disfunctional and unresponsive government. He makes a pretty good case that these are groups, though just a few among many, that are creating their own reality to cope with what they see as an outside force (whatever that may be to them - Satan for the fundamentalists, corrupt and shadowy goverment agents for the 9/11 truthers) manipulating what they think the world should be.
Interspersed among the accounts of his interactions with the two groups, Taibbi also has interludes describing the workings of Congress. This is, admittedly, the most depressing part ofthe book. Taibbi gives accounts of Congressman from both parties on the take from lobbyists and how real legislation is done in the middle of the night, with little involvement from interested groups.
I found The Age of American Unreason a fascinating read. I did not agree with every conclusion, but I definitely recommend it for anyone who wonders how we went from leaders like Jefferson and Adams, who completely embraced Enlightenment ideals and Intellectualism, to those like George W Bush and John McCain, who show open disdain for those same ideals. And, it's not limited to leaders, but to average people as well.
Susan Jacoby, begins with an overview of our current state, complete with the most rediculous examples of disdain and ridicule of rational thought. She then begins to lay out a history, describing the high place ascribed to learning and intellectualism by the founding fathers through the early years of the nation, to its decline through our history brought about by its own proponents as well as opponents.
I found the historical review most iteresting. There were many things that I didn't know, such as the popularity of lectures in the 19th century among all levels of the population. The only part of the history that lost my interest was the period in the 30's during which many intellectuals embraced communist ideals. I couldn't say why, because it was relevant to author's discussion, but it seemed to drag.
One of the most timely aspects of this book is Jacoby's exploration of the anti-Elitism. Anyone who watched the Republican National Convention saw that this is turning into one of their main selling points. In fact, as I heard what was being said at the convention, I remarked that it sounds as if it is coming straight out of Jacoby's book. Jacoby rightfully points out that the Neo Conservatives and Republican party higher-ups are as "elite" as their Democratic and Liberal counterpoints. They have just been more successful and keeping themselves out of the spotlight.
Now for some movies. Charlie Wilson's War was an entertaining film. The performances were excellent, especially Philip Seymour Hoffman. The film details one congressman's efforts to provide weapons and support for the Afghan mujahadeen to fight against the Soviet invasion. It's a pretty basic film with no deeper meaning or covert message. Thankfully, however, it didn't end with the triumphant ending of the rebels over the Soviets, instead choosing to show how our government turned off the support for the rebels to rebuild their country, opening the way for the Taliban and other radical groups to gain power.
We also watched Dark City. This film is from 1998. I think it is primarily worth watching for it's visuals. Also, it features the beautiful Jennifer Connolly, who is always worth seeing. One thing I noticed was that there is a lot in this movie that, one could say, was appropriated by the Wachowski's for The Matrix, which came out a year later.
Last night, Lacey and I went to see Burn After Reading. This was a decent effort from the Coen Brothers. Not one of their best, but far from their worst. It was mildly amusing with the Brad Pitt, Francis McDormand and John Malkovich putting in great character work.
However, what I would like to rant about are some of the comments overheard from the exiting crowd. It was obvious to me that most of the people were unfamiliar with other Coen Brothers movies and simply consuming the latest product from some big names (Clooney, Pitt). Why can't people educate themselves before they buy? I overheard two gentleman complaining about the efforts to make comedy out of such things as adultery and murder and aghast over the frequent use of the f-word. Had they never seen a Coen Brother's movie before? Did they have no idea what they could expect? Why do people do this? If you're so concerned about the f-word or adultery, there are web sites that exist solely to point out this type of content in movies. Don't just blindly spend your money, then complain about it. In fact, one of the gentleman's response to the other's complaints was "Well, that's what sells." So, if that's what "They" are selling, then why do you buy it unthinkingly?
Ugh.
So, I've finished the Age of American Unreason and The Great Derangement, both books that examine the state of our current culture. I highly recommend both. The Great Derangement gives one of the most accurate pictures of what goes on in fundamentalist churches and some of the downright weird stuff that they do. If you don't know, I spent some time as a born-again Christian, so I have first-hand experience with the scenes described in the book. So, if you are curious about what the "Evangelical" and/or "Fundamentalist" thing is all about, I recommend checking it out.
However, it does go beyond a simple "behind closed doors" look. Matt Taibbi attempts to frame the fundamentalists and, as an opposing view, 9/11 truth conspiracy theorists as reactions to our disfunctional and unresponsive government. He makes a pretty good case that these are groups, though just a few among many, that are creating their own reality to cope with what they see as an outside force (whatever that may be to them - Satan for the fundamentalists, corrupt and shadowy goverment agents for the 9/11 truthers) manipulating what they think the world should be.
Interspersed among the accounts of his interactions with the two groups, Taibbi also has interludes describing the workings of Congress. This is, admittedly, the most depressing part ofthe book. Taibbi gives accounts of Congressman from both parties on the take from lobbyists and how real legislation is done in the middle of the night, with little involvement from interested groups.
I found The Age of American Unreason a fascinating read. I did not agree with every conclusion, but I definitely recommend it for anyone who wonders how we went from leaders like Jefferson and Adams, who completely embraced Enlightenment ideals and Intellectualism, to those like George W Bush and John McCain, who show open disdain for those same ideals. And, it's not limited to leaders, but to average people as well.
Susan Jacoby, begins with an overview of our current state, complete with the most rediculous examples of disdain and ridicule of rational thought. She then begins to lay out a history, describing the high place ascribed to learning and intellectualism by the founding fathers through the early years of the nation, to its decline through our history brought about by its own proponents as well as opponents.
I found the historical review most iteresting. There were many things that I didn't know, such as the popularity of lectures in the 19th century among all levels of the population. The only part of the history that lost my interest was the period in the 30's during which many intellectuals embraced communist ideals. I couldn't say why, because it was relevant to author's discussion, but it seemed to drag.
One of the most timely aspects of this book is Jacoby's exploration of the anti-Elitism. Anyone who watched the Republican National Convention saw that this is turning into one of their main selling points. In fact, as I heard what was being said at the convention, I remarked that it sounds as if it is coming straight out of Jacoby's book. Jacoby rightfully points out that the Neo Conservatives and Republican party higher-ups are as "elite" as their Democratic and Liberal counterpoints. They have just been more successful and keeping themselves out of the spotlight.
Now for some movies. Charlie Wilson's War was an entertaining film. The performances were excellent, especially Philip Seymour Hoffman. The film details one congressman's efforts to provide weapons and support for the Afghan mujahadeen to fight against the Soviet invasion. It's a pretty basic film with no deeper meaning or covert message. Thankfully, however, it didn't end with the triumphant ending of the rebels over the Soviets, instead choosing to show how our government turned off the support for the rebels to rebuild their country, opening the way for the Taliban and other radical groups to gain power.
We also watched Dark City. This film is from 1998. I think it is primarily worth watching for it's visuals. Also, it features the beautiful Jennifer Connolly, who is always worth seeing. One thing I noticed was that there is a lot in this movie that, one could say, was appropriated by the Wachowski's for The Matrix, which came out a year later.
Last night, Lacey and I went to see Burn After Reading. This was a decent effort from the Coen Brothers. Not one of their best, but far from their worst. It was mildly amusing with the Brad Pitt, Francis McDormand and John Malkovich putting in great character work.
However, what I would like to rant about are some of the comments overheard from the exiting crowd. It was obvious to me that most of the people were unfamiliar with other Coen Brothers movies and simply consuming the latest product from some big names (Clooney, Pitt). Why can't people educate themselves before they buy? I overheard two gentleman complaining about the efforts to make comedy out of such things as adultery and murder and aghast over the frequent use of the f-word. Had they never seen a Coen Brother's movie before? Did they have no idea what they could expect? Why do people do this? If you're so concerned about the f-word or adultery, there are web sites that exist solely to point out this type of content in movies. Don't just blindly spend your money, then complain about it. In fact, one of the gentleman's response to the other's complaints was "Well, that's what sells." So, if that's what "They" are selling, then why do you buy it unthinkingly?
Ugh.
Monday, September 8, 2008
A WTF Moment
Yesterday, while watching the Raven's game, a promo for the NFL came on that used Morrissey's "Everyday Is Like Sunday" as the music, sung by someone else. To me, Morrissey does not equal football. Does he even know about this?
Thursday, September 4, 2008
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Beverly Hills Chinchilla
Alright, here's what's going on now. Labor Day weekend wasn't all that exciting. Jay's football team lost their opening game. What made it worse was that he didn't get to play very much at all. Hopefully, that will change with this weeks game.
The best day was probably Sunday. We visited some of the new shops on Frederick Road in Catonsville and ate at the Ship's Cafe. The kids wanted crabs so we got them some crabs. That was fun. Then we went and saw The Clone Wars. The kids enjoyed it.
My feelings were pretty much indifferent. It wasn't as horrible as I had read, but it wasn't anything spectacular. I like the animation style from the short TV Cartoons much better that what they used in the movie. Anakin's padawan wasn't nearly as annoying as most reviewers made her out to be. The Truman Capote-esque uncle to Jabba the Hutt was pretty bizarre and unnecessary. I don't know if there was anything about that I particularly liked, but it didn't make me feel as depressed as Episode 3 did.
So, it's election time again and, once again, my family seems to feel that they have to peform some sort of intervention so that I don't vote Democrat. This continues to disturb me. Now, they have supported Bush and the war since 2000. I don't believe that they know about or really understand the part that Evangelical Christianity has played in that administration or the Republican Party in general. They are also not millionaires. Admittedly, I don't know why they vote Republican. They were always Democrats when I was younger.
Anyway, today, they decided to send me a few e-mail forwards detailing the evil's of Obama and the Democrats. Now, if they were just sending me this junk out of habit or whatever, I would just ignore it. But, they seem to think that they are a) sending me some factual information and b) that I will simply change my mind due to the content of an e-mail forward.
I guess what annoys me the most is that they can't just accept that I am and adult who feels differently from them, sees the world differently from them and has had a completely different life than them, and therefore, am going to feel differently about politics than they do. They can't seem to just accept this and let it go. I'm willing to just say, fine, we disagree on this, we don't need to talk about it. But, they seem to think that they have to 'correct' me. They have to put me on the 'true' path. Having already had the experience of being ushered onto the 'true' path and believing what I was told, I am, and, I think understandably so, resentful of having to go through it again from my own family.
Honestly, it makes me want to tell them that we will see them after the election. At least, if Obama wins, they can bitch about it but won't feel the need to try to sway me to their side.
It's all very frustrating and distressing.
BTW, the title to this post comes from Julianna. She was reading a movie poster for some piece of crap called "Beverly Hills Chihuahau" and she misread Chihuahua as Chinchilla. (We were just looking at a Chinchilla in the pet store earlier, so that's where the substitution probably came from.) I thought the Chinchlla would make an infinitely better title and movie.
I finished the Lucifer books. All in all pretty good and worth the time, though I don't know if I will read it again. I think most Sandman fans will enjoy it, althought it doesn't have the same depth. The most interesting characters were Mazikeen, Lucifer's demon consort and leader of the Army of the Lilim (children of Lilith) and Elaine Belloc, "daughter" of Michael the Arcangel and, ultimately, God. Lucifer is less of a character than a force, like God. He has the plans that make everything else happen.
Still reading/listening to the other book. Will fill you in later.
The best day was probably Sunday. We visited some of the new shops on Frederick Road in Catonsville and ate at the Ship's Cafe. The kids wanted crabs so we got them some crabs. That was fun. Then we went and saw The Clone Wars. The kids enjoyed it.
My feelings were pretty much indifferent. It wasn't as horrible as I had read, but it wasn't anything spectacular. I like the animation style from the short TV Cartoons much better that what they used in the movie. Anakin's padawan wasn't nearly as annoying as most reviewers made her out to be. The Truman Capote-esque uncle to Jabba the Hutt was pretty bizarre and unnecessary. I don't know if there was anything about that I particularly liked, but it didn't make me feel as depressed as Episode 3 did.
So, it's election time again and, once again, my family seems to feel that they have to peform some sort of intervention so that I don't vote Democrat. This continues to disturb me. Now, they have supported Bush and the war since 2000. I don't believe that they know about or really understand the part that Evangelical Christianity has played in that administration or the Republican Party in general. They are also not millionaires. Admittedly, I don't know why they vote Republican. They were always Democrats when I was younger.
Anyway, today, they decided to send me a few e-mail forwards detailing the evil's of Obama and the Democrats. Now, if they were just sending me this junk out of habit or whatever, I would just ignore it. But, they seem to think that they are a) sending me some factual information and b) that I will simply change my mind due to the content of an e-mail forward.
I guess what annoys me the most is that they can't just accept that I am and adult who feels differently from them, sees the world differently from them and has had a completely different life than them, and therefore, am going to feel differently about politics than they do. They can't seem to just accept this and let it go. I'm willing to just say, fine, we disagree on this, we don't need to talk about it. But, they seem to think that they have to 'correct' me. They have to put me on the 'true' path. Having already had the experience of being ushered onto the 'true' path and believing what I was told, I am, and, I think understandably so, resentful of having to go through it again from my own family.
Honestly, it makes me want to tell them that we will see them after the election. At least, if Obama wins, they can bitch about it but won't feel the need to try to sway me to their side.
It's all very frustrating and distressing.
BTW, the title to this post comes from Julianna. She was reading a movie poster for some piece of crap called "Beverly Hills Chihuahau" and she misread Chihuahua as Chinchilla. (We were just looking at a Chinchilla in the pet store earlier, so that's where the substitution probably came from.) I thought the Chinchlla would make an infinitely better title and movie.
I finished the Lucifer books. All in all pretty good and worth the time, though I don't know if I will read it again. I think most Sandman fans will enjoy it, althought it doesn't have the same depth. The most interesting characters were Mazikeen, Lucifer's demon consort and leader of the Army of the Lilim (children of Lilith) and Elaine Belloc, "daughter" of Michael the Arcangel and, ultimately, God. Lucifer is less of a character than a force, like God. He has the plans that make everything else happen.
Still reading/listening to the other book. Will fill you in later.
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Kinda dull
So, nothing much going on at work today. I've got things to do but they aren't very interesting. I actually have some stuff that would be exciting, except that I'm waiting for others to give me what I need. That's one part of the job that drives me nuts. Waiting for other people. Ugh.
I'm currently reading the Lucifer set of trade paperbacks. I collected the single issues for a while, but then stopped, sold them all, and then got all the trades. Probably not the most economically efficient way to do it, but it saves space. I'd have to say it's a good read. It's not the greatest comic I've ever read, but it is interesting and has a good premise. Basically, Lucifer, who gave up his reign in Hell in the Sandman comics, winds up with his own creation. Shortly thereafter, God abandons this creation. Lots of intrigue and drama ensue. I still have two books to go, so I don't know how it all winds up. I'll report back later.
At the same time, I started listening (books on cd) to The Age of American Unreason. It's very interesting, since it is about our culture's disdain for intellectualism and rationalism. This is a topic that I'm very interested in because I don't understand why Americans think that way at all. There's lots of talk about education and we all grow up being told about the importance of education, but then we have no respect for the educated and no understanding of science. It's also one of the things that I really can't stand about the Bush administration, as I think the President and many of his appointees exemplify this idea. I'm on disc 4 of 12. So, it will be a while before I'm done.
On a side note, I've been trying out books on cd since January and have discovered that I prefer non-fiction to fiction on cd. For some reason, I just get sick of the fiction books and have to get the actual book and read it. I think I only actually listened to one entire novel without resorting to the printed version. I think it has something to do with the same voice being used for all characters or something. I have no problem with the non-fiction and in some ways prefer it over reading the books. I don't know if this is common or not.
I'm currently reading the Lucifer set of trade paperbacks. I collected the single issues for a while, but then stopped, sold them all, and then got all the trades. Probably not the most economically efficient way to do it, but it saves space. I'd have to say it's a good read. It's not the greatest comic I've ever read, but it is interesting and has a good premise. Basically, Lucifer, who gave up his reign in Hell in the Sandman comics, winds up with his own creation. Shortly thereafter, God abandons this creation. Lots of intrigue and drama ensue. I still have two books to go, so I don't know how it all winds up. I'll report back later.
At the same time, I started listening (books on cd) to The Age of American Unreason. It's very interesting, since it is about our culture's disdain for intellectualism and rationalism. This is a topic that I'm very interested in because I don't understand why Americans think that way at all. There's lots of talk about education and we all grow up being told about the importance of education, but then we have no respect for the educated and no understanding of science. It's also one of the things that I really can't stand about the Bush administration, as I think the President and many of his appointees exemplify this idea. I'm on disc 4 of 12. So, it will be a while before I'm done.
On a side note, I've been trying out books on cd since January and have discovered that I prefer non-fiction to fiction on cd. For some reason, I just get sick of the fiction books and have to get the actual book and read it. I think I only actually listened to one entire novel without resorting to the printed version. I think it has something to do with the same voice being used for all characters or something. I have no problem with the non-fiction and in some ways prefer it over reading the books. I don't know if this is common or not.
Saturday, August 23, 2008
The Dresden Dolls
Most of you know that Lacey and I love The Dresden Dolls. Here's a video of them performing a cover of Pink Floyd's In The Flesh. We saw them do this in Baltimore in December. I thought it was absolutely fantastic. They are great performers and whenever they do a cover, it just seems like they bring so much to whatever song it is. Plus, this one features Brian (the drummer) singing, which is pretty rare.
Lazy Saturday
So, today was a complete wash-out. We slept late and haven't really done anything all day. The grass needs mowing, but it's still kinda hot to deal with it.
It's been a busy week. Last night, Jay had a scrimmage against a team from Columbia. They won (I think), but nobody was really keeping score. Our team looked pretty good. Jay was doing a good job as a lineman. I have to admit being somewhat surprised. Last year, he wasn't all that great at blocking when he played wide receiver. He's much improved. Their first real game is next Saturday.
Work was busy all week. And, we had things to do in the evening, so we didn't get to do much this week. I took the kids up to the school on Thursday to meet their teachers and things like that. They were both nervous and didn't talk much. The kids, not the teachers. The teachers seem nice.
Ummm, movies. In the past week, we've watched Stop-Loss and Be Kind Rewind. Both had interesting parts, but weren't all that great overall. It looks like we won't be seeing the Clone Wars in theaters. Nothing I've read has made me want to go see it and Jay seems to have forgotten about it.
So, as I mentioned last time. We went out for Lacey's birthday last weekend. It was a pretty good time. The hotel was neat, with a very different decorating motif. We went to the Palace of Wonders and saw the Gilded Lilly Burlesque troop. These ladies are from Baltimore. I thought they were very good. We've seen groups from both New York and Philadelphia, and I thought our local girls were better than both. They had very creative routines, most of them seemed to have actual dance training, and were quite sexy. I highly recommend seeing them whenever they perform. It's worth it just to see Sable Sin Cyr.
It's been a busy week. Last night, Jay had a scrimmage against a team from Columbia. They won (I think), but nobody was really keeping score. Our team looked pretty good. Jay was doing a good job as a lineman. I have to admit being somewhat surprised. Last year, he wasn't all that great at blocking when he played wide receiver. He's much improved. Their first real game is next Saturday.
Work was busy all week. And, we had things to do in the evening, so we didn't get to do much this week. I took the kids up to the school on Thursday to meet their teachers and things like that. They were both nervous and didn't talk much. The kids, not the teachers. The teachers seem nice.
Ummm, movies. In the past week, we've watched Stop-Loss and Be Kind Rewind. Both had interesting parts, but weren't all that great overall. It looks like we won't be seeing the Clone Wars in theaters. Nothing I've read has made me want to go see it and Jay seems to have forgotten about it.
So, as I mentioned last time. We went out for Lacey's birthday last weekend. It was a pretty good time. The hotel was neat, with a very different decorating motif. We went to the Palace of Wonders and saw the Gilded Lilly Burlesque troop. These ladies are from Baltimore. I thought they were very good. We've seen groups from both New York and Philadelphia, and I thought our local girls were better than both. They had very creative routines, most of them seemed to have actual dance training, and were quite sexy. I highly recommend seeing them whenever they perform. It's worth it just to see Sable Sin Cyr.
Friday, August 15, 2008
Odds and Ends
Lacey and I watched The Bank Job over the weekend. It was by no means perfect, but it was entertaining. I think the London in the 70's setting gives it a good feel.
Jay has his first football scrimmage tomorrow against Bowie. Go Stars!!
Star Wars - The Clone Wars comes out today. Apparently, it sucks. Of course, now I have to decide if I should listen to the reviewers and see it and make up my own mind.
We're going out for Lacey's 30th birthday this weekend. Here's the agenda: See the Gilded Lilly Burlesque troop at The Palace of Wonders in DC. Get down with our bad selves at the Black Cat. Then retire to our room at this cool hotel. Hopefully, Lacey won't throw up this time.
Jay has his first football scrimmage tomorrow against Bowie. Go Stars!!
Star Wars - The Clone Wars comes out today. Apparently, it sucks. Of course, now I have to decide if I should listen to the reviewers and see it and make up my own mind.
We're going out for Lacey's 30th birthday this weekend. Here's the agenda: See the Gilded Lilly Burlesque troop at The Palace of Wonders in DC. Get down with our bad selves at the Black Cat. Then retire to our room at this cool hotel. Hopefully, Lacey won't throw up this time.
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Hair
I went to get a haircut today, which had me thinking about hair. When you think about it, the fact that we have hair is a little strange. In fact, hair itself is kinda strange. I mean, when I look at my cat, for example, I can see why he has hair - for protection mostly. But if I look at my hair or anybody else's hair, it's not that obvious. If my whole body was covered in hair, then I think i could figure it out. But, it's not. Just my head. Does my brain need to be warmed? That can't be true, because if it was, then bald people would be disfunctional. Maybe I'll just picture everyone I see today without hair. That might give me some clue.
Anyway, if you have free time, give some thought to the concept of hair.
By the way, I also learned that a haircut in Crofton is more expensive than a haircut in Catonsville.
Anyway, if you have free time, give some thought to the concept of hair.
By the way, I also learned that a haircut in Crofton is more expensive than a haircut in Catonsville.
Sunday, August 10, 2008
Getting Started
So, this will be the first post on my blog. Obviously, I'm a little late to the party on the whole blog scene. I guess you could say I was just waiting for all of the trendy people to move on to the latest thing. Plus, I don't how dedicated I can be to this. But, I'll give it a try.
Now, first of all, I guess I should introduce myself for the one person reading this that doesn't already know me. I'm a guy in my late 30's, who's married to a beautiful woman (Lacey), with two school-age children. I think I'll leave it at that, otherwise, why read any more posts?
Since I just finished a book, I'll start off writing about that. Today I finished Little Children, by Tom Perrotta. This was made into a movie, which came out last year. I enjoyed both. The movie sticks pretty close to the book, although there are minor characters that are more fleshed out in the book than in the movie. Both Lacey and I actually read his latest book, The Abstinence Teacher, prior to seeing the movie. We both really like it and once I realized that he wrote Little Children, I wanted to read that, too.
Anyway, the basic plot is that a man and a woman meet at a playground where their children play and have an affair. Obviously, it's the characters that are important in this one.
To me, the title refers not to their children, although all of the characters' lives are centered on children, but how their lives are affected by events in their childhood or at least at a younger change. And it's not that they had great tragedies in their childhood that 'made them what they are', but that how in their mundane lives, they are reminded of certain events (a remark by a former boyfriend, things that happened in college), and that these events influence their decisions now. This was one of the things I liked, because I could identify with these "blasts from the past" popping up and coloring how I look at things now. There is also a character that is a sex offender that was treated in a realistic way and I think this lends an interesting twist to things.
Now, I'll leave you with a link to some concert footage of Talking Heads circa 1980. Enjoy.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6g8lFmsCXhg
Now, first of all, I guess I should introduce myself for the one person reading this that doesn't already know me. I'm a guy in my late 30's, who's married to a beautiful woman (Lacey), with two school-age children. I think I'll leave it at that, otherwise, why read any more posts?
Since I just finished a book, I'll start off writing about that. Today I finished Little Children, by Tom Perrotta. This was made into a movie, which came out last year. I enjoyed both. The movie sticks pretty close to the book, although there are minor characters that are more fleshed out in the book than in the movie. Both Lacey and I actually read his latest book, The Abstinence Teacher, prior to seeing the movie. We both really like it and once I realized that he wrote Little Children, I wanted to read that, too.
Anyway, the basic plot is that a man and a woman meet at a playground where their children play and have an affair. Obviously, it's the characters that are important in this one.
To me, the title refers not to their children, although all of the characters' lives are centered on children, but how their lives are affected by events in their childhood or at least at a younger change. And it's not that they had great tragedies in their childhood that 'made them what they are', but that how in their mundane lives, they are reminded of certain events (a remark by a former boyfriend, things that happened in college), and that these events influence their decisions now. This was one of the things I liked, because I could identify with these "blasts from the past" popping up and coloring how I look at things now. There is also a character that is a sex offender that was treated in a realistic way and I think this lends an interesting twist to things.
Now, I'll leave you with a link to some concert footage of Talking Heads circa 1980. Enjoy.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6g8lFmsCXhg
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