JOURNAL

~ 9:19 PM ~

I had a great ride. Neale walked. The wind was stiff but I got in my 10+ miles.

We tried a new place for dinner... Happy Joe's Pizza and Ice Cream. It was good but not for regular visits.

I replaced the backdoor deadblock. The previous lock broke during the winter.

Another possible lunch/dinner place...Jimmy Yins.

Linkage:
Hot Sauce
Kitchen Myths
Modern Living
Health Status

~ 9:34 AM ~

"...at the end the harder they come..."

I am watching "Bigfoot: The Unforgettable Encounter" and I make no apologies. Pure bad TV movie badness with a handful of actors that were on hit TV shows at one time (Home Improvement), were character actors on CSI or Profiler, and Ron Howard's brother....Clint. Set your Bigfoot free!

Neale arrived home this morning. She realized she should not be driving and spent the night on a couch. It was the right choice. Next weekend, I am the designated driver.

I am planning on riding today since it is clear and only a slight wind. I may make an attempt at the remaining shrub stump and replace the backdoor lock.

Make your own Tivo!

Linkage:
A local lawyer that sued himself
Ban more books...yeah, sure

~ 07:34 PM ~

"...most exalted potentate of love..."

Neale is out with a friend.

It is rainy damp day here. Since today is the first day since last Sunday that I could breathe through my nose, I am forgoing walking tonight. I am busy on the soloflex though.

I visited Guitar Center on Watson and picked up a stand for my acoustic and a chromatic tuner. I was wanting to drop my tuning to C and my standard tuner does not do that. Needless to say, the new tuner is really nice and much easier to use.

I am not planting my vegetable garden until the weather rebounds.

Clemens v. Maddux tonight, which means two 300+ winners playing, it is a rare site.

Linkage:
Oh DeLay
Pricey zip codes
Big Plane
Idol farce

~ 06:46 PM ~

Neale had a good time at her conference. She is going back tomorrow.

I worked in the backyard after visiting Rolling Ridge Nursery, which is a great place. I passed the Crossings Taverne and Grille, which we will visit soon. I removed three shrub stumps and have one left to dig out. The weed spray is already working. I also spread a bag of broadleaf killer. I attempted to clean the back gutters but I need to get into the gutters. It is hard to tell when they were last cleaned and there is sediment in the gutters (at least two inches in places). So, I am purchasing an extension ladder soon.

Molvanian techno? I would say bad but that would be redundant. Caution dial-up: big file.

Linkage:
McCain: More regulation of Indian casinos, no word on honoring any treaties
World's Healthiest Food

~ 11:27 AM ~

Neale is attending with coworkers a labor conference in St. Louis today.

The last of lecture/discussion in Intro. Soc classes. Plus, we watched some segments from the Mythbusters. I am grading papers, which is what I will be doing for the next several days.

My cold is better. My singing voice is not quite what it should be.

Linkage:
Filibuster rule change?
CIA--No WMDs (well, they can't be wrong again)
Iraqi arms in Syria? No.

~ 07:34 PM ~

I had a pretty good day professionally. It wasn't the teaching, which was fine but the committee work.

I have had a cold for the last three days but it seems to be leaving. My voice is affected the most and it has made teaching more challenging than usual. About 4 this afternoon, it seemed to lose its grip on my voice. If I just could get a good night sleep then I would be even better. I skipped my Soloflex work last night but I back at it tonight.

Neale went for a haircut and ran into Debbie. They went to a mexican resturant for dinner.

Yesterday, I cleaned the rain gutters and tonight I trimmed the backyard fence growth. The neighbor is an older guy and does not work outside. The previous owners did nothing so it is slowly shaping up.

Linkage:
IQ and pot
More (Dial-up warning)
Keep score
Watching TV makes you smart

~ 11:55 AM ~

Cuffs for kindy

~ 11:24 AM ~

"...welcome to the future..."

I checked out SBC's DSL help site and the power down is recommended so I give it another try and recheck connections again. The DSL was back up to almost normal last night but back down this morning.

Linkage:
Not surprising
Italian government actually got something done...for your dog

~ 08:50 PM ~

"...you're a headcase with a smile, can't stop to make up your mind..."

The DSL is rebounding. I unplugged the modem and left it alone for a few hours. I do not know if that did anything real but my rechecking of tweaks, disk defragging, ad-aware checking, and virus checking revealed nothing. There are network slow downs but they last for a few hours at best.

We went to see Ring 2 (finally) and it was not good. It was made worse by talking, cell phone using, and noisy teens. I will not go off on a rant here (feel free to track it down) but it just needs to stop. Neale said something and I moved but it was just general bad behavior by teens without a concern for others. Afterwards, we went to House of India, which was great, tasty, and nicely priced. We have never had a bad meal from this resturant and I will probably stop on Thursday after my meeting.

I addressed the backyard this afternoon. I need to dig out some stumps still. I am planning on starting my tomatoes and peppers this week. On a troubling note, my roses are not looking great and it is getting down to 36 tonight. Let there be hope.

My brewing of my amber went without note. I did forget the last hop addition (just a half an ounce of Cascade) so I will dry hop next weekend. Cascade...hmmm...I may have to brew my IPA HopHead soon. Cascades, like Crystal 40L malt, are never far away from the brew pot. I purposely avoided 40L for awhile.

In a the fashion of Larry King's USA column, "...the Dwarves...overlooked."

Linkage:
What could possibly happen?

~ 03: 27 PM ~

"...me just happy robot..."

Neale is at work. I mowed the lawn and cut up a limb that fell. It is an ok day, alittle chilly and windy though so it is keeping off the bikes. We plan to walk soon.

Linkage:
New Coke & rabbit jerky

~ 09:04 AM ~

"...all day I dream about......sociology"

Long time, no post and I don't know why.

Neale had one of the longest hearings in recent memory on Tuesday. She did not get home until 1:30 AM.

I am donating today, doing some errands, and making Neale Alton's French Onion soup. It is sunny currently but the last two nights had been fairly active with thunderstorms. No damage to the house from those storms but the grass is finally coming in strong.

Our home DSL has been at a crawl the last two days. It has never been like this before so I hope it rebounds soon.

I am brewing my Amber on Saturday and Neale is sitting for Harrison, Casey, and Anna.

Linkage:
Finger in my chili..how about faker in jail

~ 10:48 AM ~

"...in a golden country there is pork..."

The above statement about pork is a current running inside joke in the household. Neale suggested that listen to an REO Speedwagon song called "Golden Country". So, I subsequently mocked her request in good humor. It has become REO Sweetwagon and I referenced the bad TV commerical for "Freedom Rock". Later today, I will be fixing the El Camino and hoping that REO is played.

I have a meeting this afternoon so I hear until at least 5PM. I will catch up on some grading.

Our sprinkler became two pieces when it is suppose to be one piece. The sprinkler head came loose from the base. Alitte super glue fixed the problem. I was about halfway done when I noticed the problem.

Linkage:
Speak it
War...peace...war
See it
KLM 685

~ 04:21 PM ~

"...Turn up your radio and let me hear the song..."

We went for a ride and like yesterday it was near perfect riding weather. Afterwards, I went to the car wash because a flock of distempered bowel birds nested near my ride. Neale was going downtown to finish up a job task. I came back and decided to mow the lawn (first time is year) and I heard my cell phone in my car ring (another benefit to the self-propelled lawn trimmer). Neale's tire blew out and she was waiting for AAA. I have never had a tire blow out (man, you better never ever) and she has had this happen twice. So, she went to Costco for new rubber. It will be a selling point as the Accord is paid for and leaving us by the end of the year. She has been eyeing the Mazda 3.

The lawn looks great. I also have another use for the lawn blower....cobweb removal machine. I am watering tonight.

The stout blew through the airlock. The Irish yeast was quick to expand and my starter was full of good yeast food. I am brewing the Amber next weekend. You would think I would just do a pale ale this time of the year, maybe I should.

Linkage:
Age Gauge

~ 07:54 PM ~

The brewing, riding, installation of toilet paper holder, and downright sexiness that is chris and neale went without note. Allen's wrench....was used.

Neale's test results...

Advanced Global Personality Test Results Extraversion |||||||||||||||| 63% Stability |||||||||| 36% Orderliness |||||||||||||| 60% Empathy |||||||||||| 43% Interdependence |||||||||||||| 56% Intellectual |||||||||||| 50% Mystical |||||| 30% Artistic |||||||||||||||| 63% Religious || 10% Hedonism |||||||||||||| 56% Materialism |||||||||| 36% Narcissism |||||||||||| 50% Adventurousness |||||||||| 36% Work ethic |||||||||||| 43% Self absorbed |||||||||||||||| 63% Conflict seeking |||||||||||||| 56% Need to dominate |||||||||| 36% Romantic |||||||||||||||| 70% Avoidant |||||| 23% Anti-authority |||||||||||| 50% Wealth |||| 16% Dependency |||||||||||| 43% Change averse |||||| 30% Cautiousness |||||||||| 36% Individuality |||||||||||||| 56% Sexuality |||||||||||||||| 70% Peter pan complex |||||| 30% Physical security |||||||||||||||| 70% Food indulgent |||||||||||||| 56% Histrionic |||||||||| 36% Paranoia |||||||||||||||| 63% Vanity |||||||||||| 43% Hypersensitivity |||||||||||||||| 63% Female cliche ||||||||| 65%

Take Free Advanced Global Personality Test
personality tests by similarminds.com

~ 08:32 AM ~

"...the whores hustle and hustlers whore..."

Neale's hearing went well. It should finish on Tuesday. She has a great reputation about running these events.

She ordered a pizza last night before she got home and the guy arrived early. Needless to say, I was suprised and alittle confused. She usually calls ahead to let me know. He was at the door and I could see what I thought was Neale's car in the driveway. I thought they arrived at the same time. The pizza guy must have thought I was alittle crazy as told him she would take care of it as I stared at his car through the curtains. After that awkward pause I realized it was not her car but his Accord and I gathered up a tip for him.

I brewed my starter last night and it is bubbling nicely. I will make my Celebration ale this afternoon after we ride.

I applied another layer of Turfbuilder to the lawn. However, that is it for that bag as we can only apply two coats.

Linkage:
Spray your kidz
Does him right
Tip wise
Name that pet

~ 08:34 AM ~

"....hey, smokestack lighting..."

Neale has a hearing today.

I planted our roses yesterday. Pics coming soon when the mulch is added. I went with non climbers for now. We will see how these bushes do. I chose two Queen Elizabeth and one Heirloom.

I had a great ride yesterday. I may go today.

I am planning on brewing this weekend but the supplies have not arrived as of yet.

Linkage:
Oh, bother
My prospective new amp

~ 09:57 AM ~

"....I am keeping it real...."

I got to explain the Wash. U. living wage issue in class. The issue of the university using sub-contractors to keep the light of the injustice off of them and lower their responsibility was floated. Needless to say, it sunk as the U-Boat of sociology fired a few torpedoes into the side of that battleship (ok, not the best imagery). It also related back to the issue of sweatshops and Wal-Mart, which had been discussed previously in the course. Just so faithful readers know...the information in class takes time to steep into people's actions and thoughts. For some, it is quick and sure. Others take more time. Social class did not make sense to a student until she saw it in her church pews weeks after we discussed it in class. As a past teacher told me when we moved out of Ohio and gave me some advice...”waters all the flowers, not just the ones that grow". That may not be the writings of Buddha but it makes sense this morning.

~ 06:23 AM ~

This finger in the chili story just keeps getting better. I am doing urban legends in class soon so this will play nicely. A few months ago we discussed the "flying baby" story, which turned to be fake. Oh yes, a child was abused but it was not thrown. The headline makes a nice impact and confirms the "precious" morality, But, we people be pro-active and watch out for child neglect in their community or just hope for more "shock and awe" with the wacky morning DJ shares "news of the weird".

Despite Wash. U's PR are problems lately, I can only support the efforts to get campus workers a liveable wage.

Linkage:
McCulture

~ 06:47 PM ~

We both had kind of a "alright" day. In the long run, things will clear up; so, you come back and do better. I would have went for a ride but it was too windy. The soloflex is feeling the tension.

Mets are playing the Astros. I purchased the MLB Extra Innings once again.

~ 10:14 AM ~

Given the finger. I don't think this ends the way she wants.

Linkage:
Social Security
Email from the Pope

~ 12:36 PM ~

Crazy Basketball shots

~ 12:31 PM ~

You know this.

Advanced Global Personality Test Results Extraversion |||||||||||| 43% Stability |||||||||||| 50% Orderliness |||||||||||||||||| 73% Empathy |||||||||||||||| 63% Interdependence |||||||||||||| 56% Intellectual |||||||||||| 50% Mystical |||||| 30% Artistic |||||||||||||||| 63% Religious || 10% Hedonism |||||||||||||| 56% Materialism |||||||||| 36% Narcissism |||||||||||| 50% Adventurousness |||||||||| 36% Work ethic |||||||||||| 43% Self absorbed |||||||||||||||| 63% Conflict seeking |||||||||||||| 56% Need to dominate |||||||||| 36% Romantic |||||||||||||||| 70% Avoidant |||||| 23% Anti-authority |||||||||||| 50% Wealth |||| 16% Dependency |||||||||||| 43% Change averse |||||| 30% Cautiousness |||||||||| 36% Individuality |||||||||||||| 56% Sexuality |||||||||||||||| 70% Peter pan complex |||||| 30% Physical security |||||||||||||||| 70% Food indulgent |||||||||||||| 56% Histrionic |||||||||| 36% Paranoia |||||||||||||||| 63% Vanity |||||||||||| 43% Hypersensitivity |||||||||||||||| 63% Female cliche |||||| 30%

Take Free Advanced Global Personality Test
personality tests by similarminds.com

~ 08:51 AM ~

"....where is my magnificence?...."

I am in my office instead of in class because today is 'project day'. I set aside class time for students to work in their groups to polish their presentations, which are coming up. They get to pick whatever topic they want and relate to the class (ie sociological view). Also, I get to make some hard points about research and how it is done. Often, people think research is just opinion and forget the process (or unaware) of the process. Plus, I get the last few weeks of the semester to grade and tie up loose ends so I am not going crazy the last few days of the semester when grades are due. Needless to say, I have learned a few things about this teaching thang.

Should I be concerned that items on my desk were moved around overnight?

I am getting a new PC at work.

My monitor from Gateway arrived last night. Yeah, why? Luckily, I solved that problem months ago. I really hope that was not the replacement that was requested before the actual replacement I got because I raised some concern to my sales rep. I refused the monitor and hopefully they sort it out on their end.

Linkage:
IPod One

~ 10:34 AM ~

"...pies the limit....."

Hey, we have a fire alarm.

We watched "Dead Poets Society" last night. I faded after the suicide so Neale actually finished it. We may go for a ride today but the weather seems to be not cooperating.

Linkage:
DeLay...feel that karma
Disease

~ 06:11 PM ~

"....I wish everyday was like Sunday...."

Mets wins! Mets win!

We went for a ride on Grant's trail today (Neale had to go to work so we kept it close). There was a woodchuck about 10 feet from the trail. He/she was not afraid of people and I got to observe for a few moments. I may need to leave a gift in the future.

I worked in the yard. I spread some Scott's Turf Builder, removed shrub stumps from the south side of the house, and raked some leaves. Also, I removed all of the bricks from the front yard and stored them below the deck in the back (plus, deck cleaner is available at Costco and we have sale on bricks). We are planning an overhaul of the frontyard soon. I will plant my roses next weekend.

The bathroom is almost done as Neale has purchased the TP holder, shower curtain, and decorations (oh, a guest towel).

Linkage:
Leave?

~ 11:06 PM ~

We had a good ride and a full day, Neale picked up stuff for the bathroom and I got some new gear at TJ Max's. What? Do you pay full price? Sucka? Yes.

Linkage:
Give the mule what he wants
Explore Art
Hot Cenus
Rock Cleveland

~ 09:29 AM ~

"....gimme too much, gimme some more...."

We had a full day. I helped with the planting of the dogwoods at LCCC, which is a part of the Liberal Arts Faculty Memorial Dogwood park. Currently, we have three trees in memory of three past faculty members. Yesterday, the planting was for Lars. In group behavior, everyone contributed something to the process, a Woodsworth poem was read, and there was a moment of silence.

I met Neale at the Cardinals game. Cards won in a comeback that sent some to the door early so they missed a good ending. They beat the Phillies, which helps the Mets (who need help as they have started the season 0-4). In Card fans news, we witnessed three drunks fall in the aisle. Did I mention that these people love their overpriced $9 Buds? After the game, we went to Schlafly's Taproom and have a full growler of Alt in the fridge. We got home about 9 and Neale was in bed by 9:30. I did not last much longer...10PM. Hey, it was a full day.

We are going for a ride, then TJ Max. Neale has some shopping to do and I have to pick up fertilzer at Costco. Tomorrow, I am working the yard again.

More daylight savings time?

Linkage:
Clocky
Back when Cookie monster ate all the cookies he wanted
The Matrix

~ 10:35 AM ~

"....this is a song about a headache...."

Let's excite the Pro Life base!

Linkage:
Contrabano

~ 11:50 AM ~

"....she's lost control again...."

RIP Saul Bellow

Linkage:
I lost my dog, my truck, and my Cash downloads

~ 12:42 PM ~

Sideways and mancans

~ 09:33 AM ~

"...I got what was and I've come to take what's left...."

Our potential breeder is back in business. Her male dog is off visiting a female dog of another breeder and having a ton of doggy love. The male dog will be back soon and we will visit the prospective parents in mid-May. We can be expected to have a choice in the next litter, which is probably ready in September. Neale talked with the breeder last night and discussed our role as informed owners once again. Our breeder has been doing this for 25 years so she knows her subject and wants her dogs to go to loving homes.

I had a very unusual dream last night about a spiteful swim team. Needless to say, I cannot make much sense of it nor should I dwell on it too much. It could come back.

My education class this morning was an odd lot of multiple (yet similar topics that trace back to our source material...understanding/making sense of diversity). It is spring, it is warm (we have the windows open as the air has yet to turn on in most classrooms), and the students are restless. But, their restlessness is being used in productive ways and the group worked together very effectively. For example, I started class with my review of proposed goals for the day and my "Grover's Corner" take on today's local elections. You are voting aren't you? In Webster, we have the choice to raise our property taxes or not to raise our property taxes. The increase is growing to teachers' salaries and technology. Well, Webster is our community, I am a teacher, I teach a class about economic issues impacting learning environments, and we want to sell our home (to a young family) quickly in a few years. Needless to say, I am keeping Webster schools on top and students' love to tease me when I draw on the board (it ain't pretty). Then, discussion to Howard Stern and one of his loyal callers (the God Hates Fags family), which prompted a discussion of religion, schools, and misinformation. At some point, we discussed Title IV and school athletes (or the lack of the student in the student-athlete role...for example, male NCAA athletes have significantly lower graduation rates than female NCAA athletes...yet, follow the money...timely reference). On a side note, we did rather well in the office pool. After that subject class switched focus to teaching philosophies as students' have to write one to complete our course. In all, not a bad day and I am sure I missed a few things to share with you. I am going to come back and do it again.

My lunch was pretty good. I made a dressing for my broccoli: olive oil, balsamic, salt, pepper, cayenne, and sesame seeds, which was simple but tasty.

We have been given tickets to the Cards home opener this Friday. Nice.

Neale is at the dentist. She has never had a cavity and hopes she escapes the drill once again.

Over winter break, I had the desire to strum some chords but my strings were very very bad. I purchased some new Ernie Ball Power Slinkys and I have taken up strumming once again. I ordered some sets for the acoustic too.

I am working in the backyard today...after voting and purchasing lawn bags.

Linkage:
IRS
IRS...dirty dozen

~ 10:46 AM ~

"....you came back another day and could do no wrong..."

We had a great ride yesterday. I did about 13 miles, which was the longest of the season. The wind was tough on the way back but better than Saturday. Neale was going into work but opted to enjoy the weather. Since the time has changed, we can go in the evenings. Neale may want to walk tonight as her back is sore from tennis. My neck is alittle sore from my workout on Saturday. Ah, the price of being active and not couch potatoes.

Speaking of the couch, we are watching the men's NCAA final game tonight (and probably 30 million other people will do the same, or more?). I was behind an SUV this morning with a "GO UNC" license plate....timely. Last night, we watched "The Incredibles", which was good but a touch long.

The greek resturant was excellent...Olympia Kebob House and Tavern (best in STL two years running according to Saucecafe.com). I had the veggie plate and Neale had stuffed grape leaves, which she has not had a good verison of those since Greek Isles in Cleveland. Olympia is also close as it is in Maplewood/Richmond Heights and it is a causal family resturant. I passed on the ouzo as we were playing pool and I was the designated driver. Side Pockets was a decent place (cheaper than Dave and Buster's but not as nice...better lighting, less smoke at D & B).

The Mets are on at 1PM. They are playing Cincy. I like our chances. Needless to say, I had a small problem with MVP2005 but it turned out I had installed a bad mod (modified file by another user) to have a Mets theme rather than the EA theme that comes with the game. There are many talented people and their updates for rosters, photos, and stadiums are great. I got a hold of bad file and simply reinstalled the original, which solved the problem.

I spent about 2 hours raking the backyard. There leaves are plentiful but the amount of twigs, small branches, and debris is worse. The new blower/vac works great. It actually mulches the leaves, which helps save money on lawn bags. On Tuesday, I will step to the challenge again. We are actually focusing on the outside of the house for a change. We want to kill the broadleaf in the back and grow grass...wish us luck.

Linkage:
M-E-T-S!!!

~ 01:46 PM ~

We went for a ride. Neale is playing tennis and I am working on the soloflex. The wind was constant on the return, which was good for me (had to work off some pizza and beer) but Neale was not amused. I bottled two batches last night. Currently, I have no beer in primary or secondary. I will do the Celebration stout soon. I want it ready for June.

We are heading to a greek resturant tonight and then some pool.

What is U2 playing?

I joined a Yahoo fantasty baseball league. I have not played in two years.

Tomorrow, I plan to work in the yard. Neale has to go into work.

Linkage:
Crazy rabbit

~ 02:11 PM ~

I am still at work because I have a meeting to attend. Needless to say, I would rather be enjoying the nice weather.

RIP Mitch Hedberg

~ 09:48 AM ~

"...ain't it something, I am born to hula..."

Terry has passed away. I have gotten the same question three times in the last two days because as an educator (??), role model (??), and teacher students actually want to talk to about stuff, I have given the same answer: talk to your family, let them know, and write it down. But on a personal note, guess what? I (we) have a journal (blog?) and here goes (once again): if I am brain 'dead', I am gone, let me go. I am an organ donor so take what you want, I do not need it anymore. If you want to tell me how much you love me and appreciate me, I have a phone on my desk, my end table, and in my car...dial my number. If you want to write me a letter, card, or email, you got the info. Do not wait until I am in a hospice or hospital and decide you really want to tell me especially if I am in PVS. ("Our Town" is one of my favorite plays, if this is an obscure reference for you, rent the play or read it). If you do not (i.e. you got it directly from me), guess what, we ain't that close and you are not (should not be) making decisions about my body (hear that states' rights Republicans that dragged federal courts into this). If you are worried about my soul, please focus on your soul. My relationship or lack thereof (in your opinion) with a 'higher power' is not your business. Yes, it is not your business because it is simply not your business. If you want to cite chapter and verse to me, no thanks. I read it and made up my mind. I do not need someone or somebody to tell me what I just read and then have to remind me everyday. There are other books to read so stop reading the same one over and over again. If you want to post your thoughts online, it is easy to do. However, living it and teaching are not, but guess what, I do it well. I can provide a balance discussion topic to provoke critical thinking and worthwhile communication. What have you got? Indocrination and resentment. Great.

Linkage:
Terri's Blog

~ 07:38 PM ~

"...theres no one here and people everywhere..."

My ride was great. The wind caused some challenge but I did a quick three and a half laps (alittle over 10 miles). I also broke 1900 miles. Neale opted out due to the wind (17+ mph).

Neale is back to spending the night tonight. The bathroom is back to use on Thursday morning. I look forward to a hot shower.

This weekend we are going out for Greek food and some pool. We plan to take in the Final Four while shooting some pool. Also, we tackle the outside front yard landscaping. We have to make a chart of our front yard for Neale's distant cousin (??) who has a knack for decoration. I also plan to dig up the remaining bush stumps to make way for my rose bushes. I will also lose the bricks from the front yard.

I am bottling this weekend. Two batches will begin their stay in bottles (Old & Faded Ale and Ironhead lager). I tasted a sample of the lager and it is different than my ales (of course). I was skepitcal as I used a mix of yeast and the temp was not ideal. Next on the brew list is my Anomie Amber ale and Celebration stout (i.e. "guinness clone").

Linkage:
QOTSA Earthlink show

~ 07:38 PM ~

"...Everybody gonna be happy...that means you and me my love"

I posted pics of the shower job. Check Photos, then Home, and scroll down.

The weather has gotten better. I wore shorts to walk. Tomorrow, I am riding. We will start going in the evenings after daylight savings.

I touched up a few spots in the shower as the tape pulled in some area and others were hidden.

QOTSA's LTP finally arrived.

~ 12:09 PM ~

"Come on, let's go drivin'....Come on, let's take a little ride".

Ah, the images of Frank Booth come to memory.

We watched "garden state" on Saturday. Very good.

I will remove the tape and clean today. The paint looks very good and the entire painting took 6 hours. It is a great improvement. Gloves (disposable) and a fan are recommended.

We had brunch yesterday with family. It was good. Yia Yia's was very busy (of course).

Linkage:
Tom DeLay...oh bother
Confuse your guests

~ 11:16 AM ~

Lunch was good yesterday. We went to 11 11 Mississippi. Afterwards, I went to Whole Foods, which had placed bunny ears on their employees. My checkout person was not amused.

We cleaned, scrubbed, sanded, and taped the bathroom yesterday. It is ready to go. Needless to say, there are directions with the paint. I have to mix it and let it sit for an hour before starting. Also, I can only paint in one direction. It should not be too tough, just slow and steady. Pics soon.

Magic of Ping Pong

Linkage:
Random URL
Mario, super communist
Keeping busy
Bad Bunny

~ 09:05 AM ~

I have the day off. I am meeting Neale for lunch and then running errands (groceries, Home Depot).

We are prepping the bathroom today. Neale wants to shape the grout some and we will tape. I will also rough it up (steel wool) and clean it again (this time with TSP). Last wek, I tackled it with white vinegar (for hard water spots), Lime Away, and ceramic tile cleaner. Saturday, I will place the first coat and then the second on Sunday. It take 3 DAYS for the paint to dry. Neale will be using Debbie's home (20 mins. away) and I will be taking care of myself. Oh joy.

Linkage:
Sun Hudson
Da Shroud

~ 01:07 PM ~

It is not a painful death.

Linkage:
Amazing Shinking Man
Its people...people

~ 12:08 PM ~

Thanks for the misinformation CNN.

Good to see QOTSA on Fuse yesterday. Letterman performance of "Little Sister" was alittle better than on FUSE. Still, a cold theater not the greatest place.

I returned to yoga last night and it felt good to be back. I walk alone today as Neale is taking the day off.

Linkage:
Worst Jobs in History
NPR Audio about legal aspects of Schiavo

~ 06:54 PM ~

I am back to the soloflex and it is a struggle. It was only one week off.

~ 06:10 AM ~

DeLorean is dead. Could we please have Congress pass a bill to shove a tube down his mouth? I heard from a guy who knew a guy that read a book written by tribesman thousands of years ago it is what he wanted. Make sense, I sure hope not.

Linkage:
13 Things that do not make sense

~ 01:02 PM ~

I finished the grout and tile replacement. Check out the photos, home section, and scan to the bottom for tile pics. Next weekend, I paint the bathroom white.

Wake, UConn, and Kansas have screwed our brackets.

Lewis and Clark CC has a new look.

If you think terrorists are only Muslim you are plain wrong (and racist). Here's the facts.

Linkage:
I don't know
Ballparks
Thanks Wake Forest
No tube for me please

~ 08:38 PM ~

You may be a narrow minded fundementalist when....

10 - You vigorously deny the existence of thousands of gods claimed by other religions, but feel outraged when someone denies the existence of yours.

9 - You feel insulted and "dehumanized" when scientists say that people evolved from other life forms, but you have no problem with the Biblical claim that we were created from dirt.

8 - You laugh at polytheists, but you have no problem believing in a Triune God.

7 - Your face turns purple when you hear of the "atrocities" attributed to Allah, but you don't even flinch when hearing about how God/Jehovah slaughtered all the babies of Egypt in "Exodus" and ordered the elimination of entire ethnic groups in "Joshua" including women, children, and trees!

6 - You laugh at Hindu beliefs that deify humans, and Greek claims about gods sleeping with women, but you have no problem believing that the Holy Spirit impregnated Mary, who then gave birth to a man-god who got killed, came back to life and then ascended into the sky.

5 - You are willing to spend your life looking for little loopholes in the scientifically established age of Earth (few billion years), but you find nothing wrong with believing dates recorded by Bronze Age tribesmen sitting in their tents and guessing that Earth is a few generations old.

4 - You believe that the entire population of this planet with the exception of those who share your beliefs -- though excluding those in all rival sects - will spend Eternity in an infinite Hell of Suffering. And yet consider your religion the most "tolerant" and "loving."

3 - While modern science, history, geology, biology, and physics have failed to convince you otherwise, some idiot rolling around on the floor speaking in "tongues" may be all the evidence you need to "prove" Christianity.

2 - You define 0.01% as a "high success rate" when it comes to answered prayers. You consider that to be evidence that prayer works. And you think that the remaining 99.99% FAILURE was simply the will of God.

1 - You actually know a lot less than many atheists and agnostics do about the Bible, Christianity, and church history - but still call yourself a Christian.

----found on a brew site I visit....Happy Easter! and you know this!

~ 08:06 PM ~

...I could keep you all to myself, but you got to free so free yourself....

My ride went really well. The trail was pretty empty (one puppy wanted to chase me) but the wind did pick up some (17 mph).

Listening to: QOTSA "LTP" on Myspace.com

Linkage:
Create a blackhole

~ 12:45 PM ~

La Tenacious Lin(C)k : Our Bracket: gold, silver, and bronze verisons. Alabama was a tough call...a 5 loses to a 12?

The tiles look good this morning. I will grout on Friday. The grout takes 48 hours to dry.

I am watching the first round of the tourney, of course. I have the sound down and ESPN radio streaming on Mega. If anyone is seriously watching CSPAN (steroid hearings) and expecting something significant to happen, you are more than welcome to come to my home and watch the grout in my shower dry. There is nothing to gain and everything to lose. Enron, no hearings. Worldcom, no hearings. WMDS/Ties to Osama, no hearings. By the way, there is no Easter Bunny either.

I racked my lager (?) to secondary. I have not had a taste yet. The porter is tasting good but there will be less oak next time. I will probably pick up some good Irish beer later today.

It is 60, sunny, and calm outside. I am heading to the lake this afternoon. Neale has an election about two hours from the Lou and will not be home until 10PM. She is at a nuclear plant so I have the gieger counter handy.

Hitchens never disappointments.

Linkage:
We tell and you do not decide
Top sport movie quotes

~ 10:53 PM ~

La Tenacious Lin(C)k : Our Bracket: gold, silver, and bronze verisons. Updates to follow.

~ 06:42 PM ~

I posted the tile photos in the home section on the photos page (scroll to bottom of home).

~ 11:46 AM ~

I am starting on the bathroom tile so I made waffles. "Madam, we must have waffles! We must all have waffles forthwith! We must all think, and we must all have waffles, and think each and every one of us to the very best of his ability..". Photos coming soon.

At the stylist on Monday, some people were overly (some would straight paranoid) about online and plain ol' identity theft. This is them and those like them. By the way, people have been cautious about monetary exchange since there were money lenders in the temple (likewise, overly concerned). I guess, we should not discuss that green in your pocket is not really worth anything. Rather, it is your belief that it is worth something (lousy gold standard, inflation, and ah yes, the money lenders). Excuse me, I have to go take my daily dose of snake oil that I bought from gentlemen in town today. Oh, that Mr. Roberts Tonic does me good. Taste like pure angst with a twist of savory paranoia.

It seems strange but world history has to do with salt.

Linkage:
NOW
Meals for you

~ 05:08 PM ~

....baby, you're so vague...

Yesterday, I went to the stylist and got a haircut. Mondays are my favorite day to visit the stylist as most of the other patrons and haircutters take the day off. It is empty.

I went to Qdoba for dinner yesterday as a new location open in Maplewood. The grilled vegetable burrito was good and the haberno salsa not as spicy as I would expect. Since it is spring break, I am having it again tonight. They are not as good as Chipotle or Baja Fresh (which was not that good for me) but it is a good treat. I am taking the week off from my regular food habits, yoga, and the soloflex. After a good solid ten weeks sometime away is good for the soul.

I have filled out two brackets for an office pool.

I have the printer active on each machine. It did not set up as I planned but I am satisfied with the situation. The terrorists did not win.

I went to the dealership for an oil change and have my brakes replaced. Luckily, it was pain free and there were no surprises (i.e. they resurfaced my rotors but did not have to replace them). After the dealership, I stopped at Home Depot to purchase materials for the bathroom project (phase 2). With the floor and walls updated, it is time to replace some tile and paint. I will stick some tile tomorrow, grout on Friday, and paint on Sunday (maybe).

Neale is working late (why does she smell of bad aftershave and cheap booze sometimes...hmmm....) and I am taking a break from walking. I will take the garbage out though.

Current Firefox Theme: Pinball

Linkage:
Gender and Society
perpetual bubblewrap
Bugmenot
Simpsons Archive

~ 01:07 PM ~

Let the destruction begin. The bad grout has been scraped away and the suspect tiles are on their way out. The grout saw is a very effective tool.

I brewed my first lager and it is churning away. It actually blew off the airlock last night. It got down to below freezing last night and it did not phase the fermentation, which is in the garage. The carboy warmer did a fine job. I also used a mixture of yeast. I pitched on the previous yeast cake from the Old ale (White Lab's Dry English yeast) and added a smack pack of Bavarian lager yeast, which was quite active. The finished product should be interesting. The Old Ale was moved to secondary and the backbone of molasses was notable. But, like the porter, it should mellow.

We went for a ride yesterday and it was decent biking weather. We saw two corgis also. One was a blue merle Cardigan at the trail and the other was a Pembroke in our neighborhood (named Susie). I believe I have seen the pem before while washing the car.

I am using DNA ATI drivers and their working well.

Current Firefox Theme: Pixelzilla

Linkage:
Singing Horses
National Health Stats
Photo
Student Films

~ 08:10 PM ~

Neale went here for lunch. Yeah, its good.

~ 05:28 PM ~

I am enjoying a Leine's Red...smooth as I remember. Costco had a special. In better beer news, my bitter is ready for early sampling and Whole Foods had bottles (ceramic that is) of Rogue's Imperial Stout, which should be incredible.

We got an email back from our breeder. They are having a family illness and currently on hold so more news soon.

Linkage:
Mythica
Killer or coder?

~ 10:49 AM ~

....Metal heavy soft at the core....

Yesterday's nonsequitar phrase: "you need to put some large in your medium and its curvy"

Our campus online software is unavailable. Actually, our server up and died. Software is fine, hardware has gone to the big tech void of nothingness. So, my grade book is unavailable. Also, I cannot communicate with my 40+ online students that are emailing their exams by Friday. I can hear the voice messages now. Oh, bother.

My neck is better. I have the heat/ice method mastered. A liability of being active is the occurence of soreness and sprains. So, I opted out of yoga last night but I should able to use the Soloflex this afternoon. Neale is not walking, so I walk alone.

Rick Ankiel...pitcher, no, outfielder, yes.

Linkage:
Corp for Supportive Housing

~ 09:34 AM ~

I managed to injury myself twice last night. First, I was removing the bands from the Soloflex and not accounting for my head. I bounced the 20-lb. bar off my forehead. Luckily, I am not lacking forehead space and my head is well-documented to be rather hard. After some ice, the bump is not visible. When you do public speaking each day, standing in front of people with a bump on your forehead only provides them with a distraction, especially if you are discussing a topic that makes 75% uncomfortable or has them examine their daily interactions. Also, I pulled a muscle in my neck, which disturbed my sleep alittle. Some ice and heat will cure that by this afternoon. I should be able to do some yoga despite my minor bumps.

In a moment of ultimate "homer" radio, a local FM station is at Cards spring training. The radio personalities were gushing over Bill Pulsipher. Now, for those you that did not suffer the 90s Mets, the name means nothing. For those of you that recall, Dallas Green's comments regarding the Mets future stars, Pulsipher, Izzy (LCCC Grad!), Bobby Jones, Wally Whitehurst, and Paul Wilson were suppose to be the biggest thing in Met pitching since the mid-80s Met teams (Doc, Squid, Darling, Ojeda, Orosco, and McDowell). As you know, the mid-90s Mets were the Dark Ages at Shea Stadium and the total wins for Pulsipher and company are not notable. Izzy is the Cards current closer and is the only glimmer of success from that group. Jones had some great games but is out of baseball, Wilson had something before being tackled by Farnsworth, Whitehurst was another AAA star that never made a MLB impact (see Alex Escobar), and Pulsipher was a groundskeeper last year. Heck, Dave Mlicki had one moment of greatest and that is about it for the Mets pitching around that time (we will not discuss Viola and Saberhagen in their down cycles, its like talking about Willie Mays as a Met). In all honesty, Bill has social anxiety disorder, which kinda runs counter to pitching in major league parks. Well, good luck Bill, Izzy gave you a chance but you are not going to replace Kline.

Linkage:
Philosophy Index
About Face

~ 07:38 PM ~

I am in process of attaching Mega to the new printer (without buying A) a router B) a print server). I have found a solution after two trips to OfficeMax. It is the older serial printer port (24-pin??) to a USB port. Yeah, you try. If I do not do this, the terrorists do win.

Linkage:
Gov't safety signs
Virtual Hospital
No trivia is worthless
Yeah, more
It don't stop

~ 11:04 AM ~

I feel good. My swing is good. I like my chances.

Neale is working at home. She has already walked. I will walk alone. My legs are sore from riding this weekend. I went hard and fast each day. I realize that despite the walking, yoga, and Soloflex (which is mostly upper body), I am not in riding shape yet. With the wind and the chill, I should be back to form by April.

Linkage:
How long? (me, 83, Neale, 89)
Dali
Phobia guide
Hubble

~ 09:24 AM ~

Brew day went well. My porter tasted nice and oaken. I am guessing that two weeks bottle aging will mellow it quite nicely and the additional time of at least two more weeks will help it balance. There was an oaken nose with a taste of alcohol that reminded me of bourbon. Maybe, not Markers Mark but I tasted some bourbon with a dark bitter coffee backbone. Time will help the batch.

We are riding today and then attending Anna's fifth birthday party. It is a large event.

A reporter on ESPN's Sports Reporters just referenced Marcus Liberty...wow...I have not heard that name in years.

The sound of the shower means only one thing...Neale has joined the league of the awake today.

We watched "Before Sunset" last night. Good.

StumbleUpon is an excellent Firefox plug-in.

Linkage:
Do as I say, not as I did
Science of Cooking

~ 12:47 PM ~

I removed the fixtures in the bathroom we did not want. So, I removed the cup/toothbrush holder, soap dish above the sink and in the bath, and the most ridicolous, the towel holder in the shower. So, I will have to replace about six tiles before painting.

I watched The Forgotten this morning. It was like a bad episode of the X-Files.

We are not sure if we will ride or walk yet. Despite the forecast saying high of mid 40s, we are feeling low 50s.

We caught up on the Survivor. We moxied the first three episodes.

Linkage:
Yahoo's Netrospective

~ 08:40 AM ~

Once again, it is Saturday morning and I am watching "Battlefield Detectives".

The ride on the Katy Trail was tough. There were strong head winds.

It turns out news reports were wrong. The Mets & Cards did play yesterday. It was not televised here though. Mets won, Pedro made his debut, and no one got hurt.

I made my starter and the Old Ale is ready to go.

I am almost done with removing bad grout and I will start adding next weekend.

Linkage:
A bad scene
Handy Tech Tips
To the moon!

~ 01:57 PM ~

It is nice and I am working out. I plan to head to Katy Trail soon. It drops back to the 40s tomorrow.

All is ready for the Old and Faded Ale brewing on Saturday. I am making a starter tonight.

Mets v. Cards....rained out.

We have not heard back from the breeder. They must be out of town.

What the hell?

Linkage:
Rest of World, progressive; US, doh!
Addicting Games
The end of the Internet

~ 09:38 AM ~

The weather forecast has the temp climbing above 45 this weekend, which is good for us and exercising but bad for lagering. Instead of the lager, which is moved to next weekend, I will do my Old and Faded Ale recipe. It is an older recipe that I never brewed and is in the tradition of an English Old Ale (see Strong Ale style, or a fav...Theakston Old Peculier) and probably in the ballpark of a Scottish Ale. Old Peculier was there last year when I was recovering from minor surgery. Next weekend is cooler but not freezing and my simple lagering method (i.e. garage and carboy warmer, pic forthcoming) need nature to cooperate.

MVP 2005 with some modifications is playing very nicely. Also, I watched the actual Mets yesterday in their first spring training game against the renamed/reinvented Nationals. It does not matter who won or lost but if people are playing and no one got injured.

I was placed on the "one arm" machine during my donation yesterday. It cuts the time in half but since I cannot give red blood cells as often as platelets, I get to use it every third time. My blood type is very useful (O negative and other good things) so they want as much as I am willing to give.

Linkage:
Bubba is dead

~ 12:08 PM ~

I am donating today.

Roper v. Simmons in the original.

Linkage:
Zombies at my school
More on Poole
Ohio count(s)ed

~ 10:41 AM ~

It is morning in America, 2005 and we finally stop killing children.

Queens on AOL.

~ 09:36 AM ~

For the second straight year, we owe the federal government money, which is not what we wanted. So, we are asking questions to those that know (our preparer and the mighty IRS) and figuring out our exemptions to better suit our situation. There is nothing wrong with paying but we do not want to pay at this stage of our lives. Our preparer was proud of us because we hung on to our money as long as possible. However, we would rather pay more (or get alittle less each month) and receive a nice refund in the spring. We have made some calls and got some good info. As the saying goes....death, taxes, and the Cubs never winning the World Series are constants in our lives.

"Good Eats", the drinking game.

Linkage:
World Jump Day

T O P