Why Otis Died

A little over a year ago, my pet cockatiel, Otis, passed away. Otis and I had only known each other for a couple of years (I was his 3rd owner), and he was quite a neurotic bird, already quite damaged by living in so many different locales with so many different owners.

I still wondered exactly why Otis died, though. He had plenty of food and plenty of water. I cleaned his cage out regularly and took him out to play with him often. He wasn’t super old or anything… So what, exactly, did Otis die of? I feel like I have now discovered the answer… Continue reading Why Otis Died

Celebrating Singleness: Drawing Your Social Circle

This is part six of the series Celebrating Singleness…

I’ve never fit neatly into predefined social circles.

Never been athletic enough to fit in with the sporty people, never liked the right music for the clubbers and party-ers, never wore the right sunglasses for the cool people, or cared enough about my looks for the fashionable. Never bling-blinged enough for the rich, and never ate at the right places for the foodies.

Continue reading Celebrating Singleness: Drawing Your Social Circle

In Memoriam

On this memorial day, I want to take a moment to express gratitude for those people who volunteer their young lives to our military forces, and who fight on my behalf.

I remember the day I submitted my obligatory registration for the Selective Service. For those of you who don’t recall, that’s the system you are put into in case there is ever a draft. I remember absolutely dreading the thought of there ever being a draft, and my total unwillingness to participate in bloodshed for any reason or for any cause.

Let’s face it, it was the 90’s and there was going to be peace on earth forever, right?

We all know that this isn’t the case. Today we face different threats than we’ve ever faced, and must fight wars in ways we’ve never dreamed of in the past. These are not only the soldiers in camouflage and laser guided missiles, but those secret, unassuming ‘soldiers’ who fight our wars in the back-channels, who linger in the shadows and baffles. You know who you are.

And so I thank those who have volunteered to guard my American Dream for me. We did not always have it so good in this country. Our fathers and grandfathers were conscripted into military service, putting their lives and families on hold, and often giving their fragile, young lives for our country.

So while we enjoy our barbecues and baseball games on this memorial weekend, with the intermittent thoughts of distant conflicts being waged half-way around the world, let’s take a moment and remember the one, the thousands, and the millions who have given their life so we can put that thick, juicy rib eye on the grill…

So You Think You Can Dance Begins

Well my reality TV fans, there is no rest for the weary. The day after the American Idol Finale, we’re back on with a 2 hour start to the sister show “So You Think You Can Dance”.

I wasn’t even going to post about tonight’s show, but after seeing this guy, popper Robert Murraine, I couldn’t help but post a video. This guy is absolutely amazing!

[flashvideo filename=video/sytycd-popper.flv /]

It’s gonna be a great season!

Top 2 Reviewed

Well, my dear American Idol fans, the season is coming swiftly to a close, and here we are at what might be one of the most exciting finale’s of AI history. The two boys go head to head in what might have been a knock down drag out, but what ended up as a good old fashioned butt whoopin’, complete with the out of control judges totally taking sides.

Let’s start by talking theme. Is it just me or did they take the boxing metaphor just a little too far??? Oh, but I’m glad they got this one right… yes, David Archuleta is “…weighing in at around 100 lbs.”

But lets look past the stupid intro, and to things that really matter, like our Judges… Paula is bedazzled tonight (like Monday’s microphone), and Simon is (yet again) baring a bit too much chest… just slightly inappropriate for a man his age.

Now to some reviews of actual singing… Continue reading Top 2 Reviewed