No turkey for us yesterday. You see, due to illness we did not visit the in-laws, where the big bird was defrosted and ready for roasting. That freed us at the Geohouse to call an audible. So, we wound up at Monti's La Casa Vieja, where Geogal had fetuccine, I had prime rib, and little Geoana had a burger. Who said you have to stick to the traditional stuff on Thanksgiving?
We ate there two Thanksgivings ago. Maybe we need to start a new family tradition.
Decided to turn on the old idiot box to see what the crowds were like at various shopping centers. I haven't watched local news in some time (I get virtually all of it these days from radio, newspaper, and Internet). It turns out I haven't missed much. Since it was after 7 in the morning, the Big Three network affiliates had already gone to the national shows. Therefore I was left with KTVK and Fox 10. Oh, the humanity!! Anchors stammering through scripts that obviously never saw a proofreader, video for a hard news story consisting of a static camera shot of a computer screen showing the Fox News.com site, and a spastic weather-reader-comedian humiliating a 13-year-old girl who buried her face in her mother's chest (having the good sense to not show her face on television).
I continually read how the Internet is killing print news. If television news continues to take the lowest road possible, the Net might just deal the death blow to the TV variety as well.
Friday, November 23, 2007
Friday, November 16, 2007
Fast thoughts
Yet another reason why I am not a gambling man.
Yesterday I thought to myself: "Oregon will show up to play. There's no way Arizona will beat them two years in a row. Final score--Oregon 28, Arizona 3."
Imagine my shock when I picked up my newspaper in the driveway this morning. What a whiff!
________________________________
The Dolphins obviously think things cannot get any worse for them.
Dumbest quote of the day, even more outlandish than anything that came from Barry Bonds' attorneys, is courtesy of Miami linebacker Zach Thomas:
"He won't be a cancer in the locker room. He has always had a good work ethic."
Say what?? Hey Thomas, do you not recall what took place in July of 2004, when Williams suddenly announced he was retiring from the game? That his timing could not have been worse for the team? Bailing out just before the beginning of training camp? Leaving at a time when all the talented free agent running backs were already signed by other teams?
What kind of work ethic is that?
_________________________________
I still have a hard time believing next week is Thanksgiving. Where did this year go?
Yesterday I thought to myself: "Oregon will show up to play. There's no way Arizona will beat them two years in a row. Final score--Oregon 28, Arizona 3."
Imagine my shock when I picked up my newspaper in the driveway this morning. What a whiff!
________________________________
The Dolphins obviously think things cannot get any worse for them.
Dumbest quote of the day, even more outlandish than anything that came from Barry Bonds' attorneys, is courtesy of Miami linebacker Zach Thomas:
"He won't be a cancer in the locker room. He has always had a good work ethic."
Say what?? Hey Thomas, do you not recall what took place in July of 2004, when Williams suddenly announced he was retiring from the game? That his timing could not have been worse for the team? Bailing out just before the beginning of training camp? Leaving at a time when all the talented free agent running backs were already signed by other teams?
What kind of work ethic is that?
_________________________________
I still have a hard time believing next week is Thanksgiving. Where did this year go?
Monday, November 12, 2007
Reflecting in a fast-food joint
About a week ago I had occasion to be in Apache Junction, which some Valley residents might refer to as "dogpatch" or "the town that smells of manure and cigarette smoke." Epithets aside, AJ has its own brand of uniqueness that sets it apart from the other East Valley cities.
But enough about the town. If I'm there around the lunching hour I will stop at the Whataburger at the corner of Apache Trail and Meridian. Years ago, my job used to take me to AJ frequently so I am well familiar with the eating options. So, I decided to again nosh at this Whataburger, even though I haven't eaten there in a good four years. (Plus, Whataburger appeals to my Native Texan blood.)
The burger is just as good as I remember. What I didn't anticipate is that being in this establishment would bring back a flood of memories. I remember distinctly heading in there to eat in the summer of 2002. Geogal and I were preparing to move away from Casa Grande and set up residence in the Valley. The house sale was going well, no snags with the contract. Yet I was very stressed. We still didn't have a mover. Time was getting short. While having my lunch (a Whataburger, probably with bacon), I managed to make a call to a guy with a Valley-based mover, who was agreeable to the job. So, leave Whataburger with a little less stress.
Back to present-day. I have new stressors, big ones. Yet the moving issue has long since been resolved. Maybe there is a lesson here for me. I will always have items (internal and external) that will affect my stress level. However, these things often come and go. Very few stay for the long-term. And chances are high that I will be around to fight another day. Stress can have a positive effect. But I have to remember not to let my stress get the better of me.
And I'm wondering about eating in that same Whataburger a few years down the road. What will today's stressors be then?
But enough about the town. If I'm there around the lunching hour I will stop at the Whataburger at the corner of Apache Trail and Meridian. Years ago, my job used to take me to AJ frequently so I am well familiar with the eating options. So, I decided to again nosh at this Whataburger, even though I haven't eaten there in a good four years. (Plus, Whataburger appeals to my Native Texan blood.)
The burger is just as good as I remember. What I didn't anticipate is that being in this establishment would bring back a flood of memories. I remember distinctly heading in there to eat in the summer of 2002. Geogal and I were preparing to move away from Casa Grande and set up residence in the Valley. The house sale was going well, no snags with the contract. Yet I was very stressed. We still didn't have a mover. Time was getting short. While having my lunch (a Whataburger, probably with bacon), I managed to make a call to a guy with a Valley-based mover, who was agreeable to the job. So, leave Whataburger with a little less stress.
Back to present-day. I have new stressors, big ones. Yet the moving issue has long since been resolved. Maybe there is a lesson here for me. I will always have items (internal and external) that will affect my stress level. However, these things often come and go. Very few stay for the long-term. And chances are high that I will be around to fight another day. Stress can have a positive effect. But I have to remember not to let my stress get the better of me.
And I'm wondering about eating in that same Whataburger a few years down the road. What will today's stressors be then?
Saturday, November 03, 2007
The most wonderful time of the week
No, don't start humming the Christmas song with a title similar to today's blog heading. Since Halloween is gone, we'll all soon be bombarded with holiday tunes as it is.
Saturday mornings, especially in the fall, are just grand. I'm always the first one up in the Geohouse. Cool temps, hot coffee, overall quiet. Plus Friday night-Saturday morning sleep is some of the most restful I get all week.
The above tend to congeal into a mental condition that in turn causes me to think reflectively at the very start of the weekend. Today's thoughts? Meaning. Drive. Happiness. All of these were subjects of my musing during the past week.
What drives me? I wonder. I am not a Type A person. (Sometimes I believe I'm Type B minus.) Achievement has its place, but it is not my ultimate goal. I'm more oriented to my interests and hobbies than my livelihood. And I don't think that's wrong. Please do not misunderstand me, I work hard at my profession. I am constantly reading and attending workshops in order to learn new and different ways in which to ply my trade. I do network. And I am enjoying some of the freedoms that come with being self-employed, even if I am engaging in a little moonlighting for the time being. The outside work is OK and I am always reminding myself that doing the extra work is not a long-term plan.
Happiness? I know enough to know it doesn't come from money. Money can certainly buy fun, for the short-term, but it cannot buy sustained, chronic joy. Vacations and journeys have their place but often I am OK just tending to my own home. My favorite sports teams? Politics? Entertainment? Nope, goose egg on all three. Happiness does not come from outside circumstances. (OK, not my idea. Stephen Covey communicates this in "The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People," and Rick Warren relates this concept from a Christian perspective in "The Purpose Driven Life," both good reads.) I think my father had it correct when, in a recent phone conversation, he reminded me to take time and do some outdoor grilling and take my truck out to explore Arizona. (This, in a response to how stressed I felt at that time.)
So this morning I am feeling upbeat, optimistic. Now, can I take this attitude and sustain it throughout the weekend, perhaps even (yikes!) the week to come?
____________________
Now, moving away from the reflection, here's a short Geofamily reference to a current event. The photo today (from 2005) shows Geoana at the Anchorage zoo, in the background is (or was) their resident elephant. Who was moved to warmer climes this week.
Monday, October 29, 2007
Monday morning second-guessing
So Joe Girardi will be offered the job of Yankees manager.
Not that it matters greatly to me overall, but I was looking forward to enjoying more "Simpsons"-induced irony.
Remember my list of the top ten episodes? (Of course you do, it's just below this post.) In "Homer At The Bat," toward the end of the episode Mr. Burns throws Don Mattingly off the team due to his sideburns. (Adding to the humor is that Mattingly was not sporting any hair on the sides of his face, nor have sideburns even been in style for over a generation--Beverly Hills 90210 notwithstanding.) As Mattingly walks off the field, he says, sotto voce, "I still like him better than Steinbrenner" (referring to Burns).
Oh, if Don had wound up as the Yankees skipper...
Speaking of baseball, let the pundits start typing and yakking about how the Rockies were overrated, the Red Sox were unbeatable, the series was boring, etc. My take? The same thing that happened to the Diamondbacks in the NLCS took place with the Rockies in the Series. Bats went quiet, pitching wasn't quite good enough, momentum ran out, and the result was a sweep by the opposition. And in my humble opinion, that's what makes the game fun. You just never know...
How is it that USC loses on Saturday but only drops one point in the AP poll?
Not that it matters greatly to me overall, but I was looking forward to enjoying more "Simpsons"-induced irony.
Remember my list of the top ten episodes? (Of course you do, it's just below this post.) In "Homer At The Bat," toward the end of the episode Mr. Burns throws Don Mattingly off the team due to his sideburns. (Adding to the humor is that Mattingly was not sporting any hair on the sides of his face, nor have sideburns even been in style for over a generation--Beverly Hills 90210 notwithstanding.) As Mattingly walks off the field, he says, sotto voce, "I still like him better than Steinbrenner" (referring to Burns).
Oh, if Don had wound up as the Yankees skipper...
Speaking of baseball, let the pundits start typing and yakking about how the Rockies were overrated, the Red Sox were unbeatable, the series was boring, etc. My take? The same thing that happened to the Diamondbacks in the NLCS took place with the Rockies in the Series. Bats went quiet, pitching wasn't quite good enough, momentum ran out, and the result was a sweep by the opposition. And in my humble opinion, that's what makes the game fun. You just never know...
How is it that USC loses on Saturday but only drops one point in the AP poll?
Sunday, October 21, 2007
Top Ten Simpsons episodes
As promised, the top ten Simpsons episodes as decided by yours truly.
My fan credentials? Let's see, I began watching in 1990, shortly after the series' debut. Only recently did I cease watching new episodes (see here for the explanation). I own several of the DVD's, all the way through Season 6. (I plan to own Seven and Eight, but I might stop the DVD purchases after that, as the quality of the series really began to nosedive in Season 9.)
I actually composed this list just prior to the movie's premiere, but never had the time to write the accompanying narrative until recently. Without further ado, here goes:
10) Some Enchanted Evening
I know what you're thinking. A Season One episode in this list? Sure. In my humble opinion, the first season did have some high points even if the animation was a bit rough and the characters were not yet fully developed. This is a well-constructed story that sets the stage for numerous episodes to follow (largely Homer's lack of basic intelligence). And Penny Marshall's voice work as the Babysitter Bandit is classic.
9) The Boy Who Knew Too Much
This is an ep that doesn't seem to get much airing in syndication. Still, the plot starting with Bart ditching school and being chased by Principal Skinner, followed by a courtroom satire, concluding with Bart having a rare case of ethics is a laugher from start to finish. Look for the parody of the Kennedy family, plus a side-splitting reference to "Westworld."
8) Deep Space Homer
Those who know me know I enjoy movies dealing with the space program, such as "The Right Stuff" and "Apollo 13." So this episode was a natural for my list. Hail Ants!
7) Marge Be Not Proud
My favorite of all the Christmas episodes. I'm not a big fan of the "hugs and lessons" shtick but I'll make an exception here. Plus the characterization of Marge in this episode reminds me of my own mother.
6) Lisa's Substitute
Another somewhat sentimental episode. In this one from Season 2, Dustin Hoffman (uncredited) showed celebrities to follow just how a guest voice can add superb dimension to Our Favorite Family.
5) Sideshow Bob's Last Gleaming
Kelsey Grammer appears as Sideshow Bob nearly every season, but this jewel from Season 7 is the topper. Too many priceless moments to mention here, from "the esteemed representatives of television" all the way to "the Stingy and Battery Show!"
4) Who Shot Mr. Burns?--Part Two
Part one was good drama (such as it is for an animated comedy program), but this one, the Season 7 opener, has so many references to other cult television creations that it compensates for the anticlimactic ending. "Speedway Squad--in color!"
3) Homer At The Bat
Nine of the best players in Major League Baseball (at the time of this episode's production) as guest voices. How could I leave this one off the list? And a bonus--the closing song: "We're Talking Softball."
2) Marge Versus The Monorail
For many years this was my all-time favorite. A short description won't do this one justice. Just one line, courtesy of Homer: "I call the big one Bitey." Also featuring the voice of Leonard Nimoy, who also appears in....
1) The Springfield Files
This one is just about perfect. A solid storyline, beginning, middle, and end. Guest voices engaging in the right amount of self-parody. "X-Files" parody supreme. Fox-network-bashing supreme. Is Homer right, or is Homer a dope? "Keep watching the skies!"
Others that didn't quite make the Top Ten:
Bart On The Road: "That's it--back to Winnipeg!"
Call Of The Simpsons
You Only Move Twice: Marge--"I think owning the Denver Broncos is pretty good." Homer--"Marge, you just don't understand football."
Trilogy of Error
Girly Edition (Lisa does the best slow-burn ever)
You think I missed one, or you could make a better list in your sleep? Use the comments section and throw down!
My fan credentials? Let's see, I began watching in 1990, shortly after the series' debut. Only recently did I cease watching new episodes (see here for the explanation). I own several of the DVD's, all the way through Season 6. (I plan to own Seven and Eight, but I might stop the DVD purchases after that, as the quality of the series really began to nosedive in Season 9.)
I actually composed this list just prior to the movie's premiere, but never had the time to write the accompanying narrative until recently. Without further ado, here goes:
10) Some Enchanted Evening
I know what you're thinking. A Season One episode in this list? Sure. In my humble opinion, the first season did have some high points even if the animation was a bit rough and the characters were not yet fully developed. This is a well-constructed story that sets the stage for numerous episodes to follow (largely Homer's lack of basic intelligence). And Penny Marshall's voice work as the Babysitter Bandit is classic.
9) The Boy Who Knew Too Much
This is an ep that doesn't seem to get much airing in syndication. Still, the plot starting with Bart ditching school and being chased by Principal Skinner, followed by a courtroom satire, concluding with Bart having a rare case of ethics is a laugher from start to finish. Look for the parody of the Kennedy family, plus a side-splitting reference to "Westworld."
8) Deep Space Homer
Those who know me know I enjoy movies dealing with the space program, such as "The Right Stuff" and "Apollo 13." So this episode was a natural for my list. Hail Ants!
7) Marge Be Not Proud
My favorite of all the Christmas episodes. I'm not a big fan of the "hugs and lessons" shtick but I'll make an exception here. Plus the characterization of Marge in this episode reminds me of my own mother.
6) Lisa's Substitute
Another somewhat sentimental episode. In this one from Season 2, Dustin Hoffman (uncredited) showed celebrities to follow just how a guest voice can add superb dimension to Our Favorite Family.
5) Sideshow Bob's Last Gleaming
Kelsey Grammer appears as Sideshow Bob nearly every season, but this jewel from Season 7 is the topper. Too many priceless moments to mention here, from "the esteemed representatives of television" all the way to "the Stingy and Battery Show!"
4) Who Shot Mr. Burns?--Part Two
Part one was good drama (such as it is for an animated comedy program), but this one, the Season 7 opener, has so many references to other cult television creations that it compensates for the anticlimactic ending. "Speedway Squad--in color!"
3) Homer At The Bat
Nine of the best players in Major League Baseball (at the time of this episode's production) as guest voices. How could I leave this one off the list? And a bonus--the closing song: "We're Talking Softball."
2) Marge Versus The Monorail
For many years this was my all-time favorite. A short description won't do this one justice. Just one line, courtesy of Homer: "I call the big one Bitey." Also featuring the voice of Leonard Nimoy, who also appears in....
1) The Springfield Files
This one is just about perfect. A solid storyline, beginning, middle, and end. Guest voices engaging in the right amount of self-parody. "X-Files" parody supreme. Fox-network-bashing supreme. Is Homer right, or is Homer a dope? "Keep watching the skies!"
Others that didn't quite make the Top Ten:
Bart On The Road: "That's it--back to Winnipeg!"
Call Of The Simpsons
You Only Move Twice: Marge--"I think owning the Denver Broncos is pretty good." Homer--"Marge, you just don't understand football."
Trilogy of Error
Girly Edition (Lisa does the best slow-burn ever)
You think I missed one, or you could make a better list in your sleep? Use the comments section and throw down!
Thursday, October 18, 2007
Dry Well
It sure feels that way today.
And it's not just me. Take a look at the front page of your local newspaper. Not much going on in the news right now. And these things happen from time to time--a phenomenon known as a "slow news cycle."
Plus I don't believe I have anything to add that's of substance. Not much happening at the Geohouse for the time being.
So, to other blogs I go. Checked out Hugh Hewitt's entries over the last few days. This one really caught my eye.
As the regular readers of this site know, I used to work in the broadcast news business. So the Howard Kurtz book and interview piqued my interest. I put the interview from Hewitt's show onto my iPod and an amazing thing happened. It held my interest for the entire length of the Hewitt-Kurtz conversation. There's nothing wrong with my attention span, but I do tend to "zone out" from time to time listening to the same types of podcasts, usually while I am at the gym. Not so this time.
Plus, the Hewitt blog entry also had a link to a Wall Street Journal story about the flop that is Disney's California Adventure. You see, Geogal was born and raised in Orange County, and lived there her whole life until she left for college. As such, I have heard numerous stories of how Disneyland visits were the norm in her family. Along with these stories I also am subject to wailing and gnashing of teeth about how Disneyland is just a shell of its former self. And don't ever get Geogal started about California Adventure. Suffice to say, she did not approve of its creation or construction.
So, I've got to direct her to that article....
Hmmmmm. That turned out to be a longer blog entry than I expected, this being a dry well day and all. I might not be so lucky for the next try, so I will pull out one of my evergreens. Next entry: The Top Ten Simpsons episodes (as determined by yours truly)!
And it's not just me. Take a look at the front page of your local newspaper. Not much going on in the news right now. And these things happen from time to time--a phenomenon known as a "slow news cycle."
Plus I don't believe I have anything to add that's of substance. Not much happening at the Geohouse for the time being.
So, to other blogs I go. Checked out Hugh Hewitt's entries over the last few days. This one really caught my eye.
As the regular readers of this site know, I used to work in the broadcast news business. So the Howard Kurtz book and interview piqued my interest. I put the interview from Hewitt's show onto my iPod and an amazing thing happened. It held my interest for the entire length of the Hewitt-Kurtz conversation. There's nothing wrong with my attention span, but I do tend to "zone out" from time to time listening to the same types of podcasts, usually while I am at the gym. Not so this time.
Plus, the Hewitt blog entry also had a link to a Wall Street Journal story about the flop that is Disney's California Adventure. You see, Geogal was born and raised in Orange County, and lived there her whole life until she left for college. As such, I have heard numerous stories of how Disneyland visits were the norm in her family. Along with these stories I also am subject to wailing and gnashing of teeth about how Disneyland is just a shell of its former self. And don't ever get Geogal started about California Adventure. Suffice to say, she did not approve of its creation or construction.
So, I've got to direct her to that article....
Hmmmmm. That turned out to be a longer blog entry than I expected, this being a dry well day and all. I might not be so lucky for the next try, so I will pull out one of my evergreens. Next entry: The Top Ten Simpsons episodes (as determined by yours truly)!
Thursday, October 11, 2007
Random stuff
No theme tying all of this together, just musings from a stressed mind:
Latest Netflix choice was "Stagecoach," widely considered to be John Wayne's first successful starring role. Good flick. I watched it Sunday while doing laundry (Geoguy is domesticated!). It triggered long-latent desires to live the life of the Old West cowboy, plus the thought of "when do I next get out of town and take a drive through aforementioned Old West?"
Answer: When you get a couple of new tires and some front-end work done on that truck, Geoguy. Not to mention a free Saturday.
No wonder I have Walter Mitty-esque fantasies of living the cowboy life.
_______________________________________________
It's amazing to me how the Arizona Cardinals are doing a few things right. Most folks didn't know how much of a coup it was for the team to sign Tim Rattay when Matt Leinart went down. When you see the other injured quarterbacks around the NFL, plus Vinny Testaverde putting on a uniform once again, it makes you wonder just how many teams are sending representatives to Idaho, looking for Jake Plummer.
_______________________________________________
Is it just me, or does Diana Krall sound like a guy when she sings? Really. Listen to her rendition of "The Look of Love" and tell me I'm wrong. (Or, better yet, go here and listen to the "Cry Me A River" ringtone.)
_______________________________________________
Another season (or series, as they say across the pond) of Doctor Who is over. Fortunately, I have several episodes of "Torchwood" on the DVR awaiting my viewing. I just watched the first one yesterday. Whoa! Apparently British TV allows for more swearing than here in the U.S. (Just a few profanities and obscenities--we're not talking "Deadwood" here.) Looks to be an interesting series, though. If they manage to keep up the quality established in Doctor Who, then they just hooked another fan in yours truly.
_______________________________________________
The Diamondbacks? Let's just say Colorado has me worried...
Latest Netflix choice was "Stagecoach," widely considered to be John Wayne's first successful starring role. Good flick. I watched it Sunday while doing laundry (Geoguy is domesticated!). It triggered long-latent desires to live the life of the Old West cowboy, plus the thought of "when do I next get out of town and take a drive through aforementioned Old West?"
Answer: When you get a couple of new tires and some front-end work done on that truck, Geoguy. Not to mention a free Saturday.
No wonder I have Walter Mitty-esque fantasies of living the cowboy life.
_______________________________________________
It's amazing to me how the Arizona Cardinals are doing a few things right. Most folks didn't know how much of a coup it was for the team to sign Tim Rattay when Matt Leinart went down. When you see the other injured quarterbacks around the NFL, plus Vinny Testaverde putting on a uniform once again, it makes you wonder just how many teams are sending representatives to Idaho, looking for Jake Plummer.
_______________________________________________
Is it just me, or does Diana Krall sound like a guy when she sings? Really. Listen to her rendition of "The Look of Love" and tell me I'm wrong. (Or, better yet, go here and listen to the "Cry Me A River" ringtone.)
_______________________________________________
Another season (or series, as they say across the pond) of Doctor Who is over. Fortunately, I have several episodes of "Torchwood" on the DVR awaiting my viewing. I just watched the first one yesterday. Whoa! Apparently British TV allows for more swearing than here in the U.S. (Just a few profanities and obscenities--we're not talking "Deadwood" here.) Looks to be an interesting series, though. If they manage to keep up the quality established in Doctor Who, then they just hooked another fan in yours truly.
_______________________________________________
The Diamondbacks? Let's just say Colorado has me worried...
Friday, October 05, 2007
Not getting overconfident, but...
...it's still gratifying to see the Diamondbacks win games in convincing fashion.
Yes, I'm well aware the NLDS isn't over yet. And now the series is headed to Wrigley Field.
But what a difference one week makes! Last Friday, I was sitting in a barber shop in downtown Chandler, waiting my turn for a haircut. While waiting, I perused a copy of the Arizona Republic. The sports section contained a page listing all of the possible scenarios regarding the National League playoffs. (Remember, the teams in contention at the time included the Mets and Padres.) Yes, there was a small blub which stated the Arizona players might be "going fishing" come Monday. Yes, mathematically they had a chance to not make the playoffs. But by the next morning, the D-Backs were in.
Now let's see if they can close this one out.
Yet regardless of how the Diamondbacks do in this postseason, I consider it all gravy at this point. My only real wish for the end of this MLB season is that the Yankees do not win it all.
Besides, the Colorado Rockies look REALLY, really good. How long can they sustain this momentum?
Yes, I'm well aware the NLDS isn't over yet. And now the series is headed to Wrigley Field.
But what a difference one week makes! Last Friday, I was sitting in a barber shop in downtown Chandler, waiting my turn for a haircut. While waiting, I perused a copy of the Arizona Republic. The sports section contained a page listing all of the possible scenarios regarding the National League playoffs. (Remember, the teams in contention at the time included the Mets and Padres.) Yes, there was a small blub which stated the Arizona players might be "going fishing" come Monday. Yes, mathematically they had a chance to not make the playoffs. But by the next morning, the D-Backs were in.
Now let's see if they can close this one out.
Yet regardless of how the Diamondbacks do in this postseason, I consider it all gravy at this point. My only real wish for the end of this MLB season is that the Yankees do not win it all.
Besides, the Colorado Rockies look REALLY, really good. How long can they sustain this momentum?
Tuesday, October 02, 2007
Living in the real world
Little Geoana is a huge fan of Hannah Montana.
But she probably should not set her sights on going to the "HM" concert, which will hit town on November 9. Why? Because of this.
Geogal and I are just a couple of working stiffs. And we certainly do not feel the need to indulge our child's every whim. Fortunately for us, Geoana has not made any requests or demands to see Hannah Montana in concert--yet. Perhaps this will blow over without incident.
I just think it's early enough that we can tell the little one "no" to certain things. Geogal and I believe in some old-fashioned things, such as delayed gratification and the importance of working hard. Hopefully the two of us will have the fortitude to follow through on our convictions.
After all, Geogal and I still have not seen Steely Dan in concert and we're functioning OK.
But she probably should not set her sights on going to the "HM" concert, which will hit town on November 9. Why? Because of this.
Geogal and I are just a couple of working stiffs. And we certainly do not feel the need to indulge our child's every whim. Fortunately for us, Geoana has not made any requests or demands to see Hannah Montana in concert--yet. Perhaps this will blow over without incident.
I just think it's early enough that we can tell the little one "no" to certain things. Geogal and I believe in some old-fashioned things, such as delayed gratification and the importance of working hard. Hopefully the two of us will have the fortitude to follow through on our convictions.
After all, Geogal and I still have not seen Steely Dan in concert and we're functioning OK.
Saturday, September 29, 2007
Saturday musings
Congratulations to the snakes!
And to think I, as most people, was expecting a mediocre team this season. That dreadful year of 2004 is rapidly becoming a distant memory.
Speaking of distant memories in the world of sports, remember when the Cowboys were slaughtered 44-0 by the Chicago Bears in the fall of 1985? I certainly do.
Not that it's an apples-to-apples comparison, but Sunday night's victory by the 'Pokes in Chicago definitely felt good to those of us who remember that low point in Texas history. (Which I always consider, with the benefit of hindsight, to be the beginning of the end of the Tom Landry era.) Not only did the Cowboys win at Soldier Field, in front of a national TV audience, but remember the home team did represent the NFC in last season's Super Bowl.
So it's a victory I can savor for some time.
Back to baseball. I am realistic. The Diamondbacks will not make it to the World Series. However, postseason play is still fun to watch.
One last sports comment--my prediction for Sunday's Cardinals-Steelers matchup: Pittsburgh 35, Arizona 13.
_________________________________
Lately my blogging on this site has been down. Why? I am spending a great deal of time and energy getting my business going (which I have mentioned here before). Part of my efforts involve creating and maintaining the business website. Not to mention I am also writing blog posts for my business. For the casual reader, no, I will not link to either the website or the blog from the Arizona Pundit blog, as I want to keep myself incognito here. Family and friends can get the URL for my business venture via e-mail. Plus it is somewhat therapeutic to maintain a more casual (and sometimes sarcastic) alter ego on this blog, the likes of which I would never do on the professional Internet presence.
Back to work (no more casual Saturdays)!
And to think I, as most people, was expecting a mediocre team this season. That dreadful year of 2004 is rapidly becoming a distant memory.
Speaking of distant memories in the world of sports, remember when the Cowboys were slaughtered 44-0 by the Chicago Bears in the fall of 1985? I certainly do.
Not that it's an apples-to-apples comparison, but Sunday night's victory by the 'Pokes in Chicago definitely felt good to those of us who remember that low point in Texas history. (Which I always consider, with the benefit of hindsight, to be the beginning of the end of the Tom Landry era.) Not only did the Cowboys win at Soldier Field, in front of a national TV audience, but remember the home team did represent the NFC in last season's Super Bowl.
So it's a victory I can savor for some time.
Back to baseball. I am realistic. The Diamondbacks will not make it to the World Series. However, postseason play is still fun to watch.
One last sports comment--my prediction for Sunday's Cardinals-Steelers matchup: Pittsburgh 35, Arizona 13.
_________________________________
Lately my blogging on this site has been down. Why? I am spending a great deal of time and energy getting my business going (which I have mentioned here before). Part of my efforts involve creating and maintaining the business website. Not to mention I am also writing blog posts for my business. For the casual reader, no, I will not link to either the website or the blog from the Arizona Pundit blog, as I want to keep myself incognito here. Family and friends can get the URL for my business venture via e-mail. Plus it is somewhat therapeutic to maintain a more casual (and sometimes sarcastic) alter ego on this blog, the likes of which I would never do on the professional Internet presence.
Back to work (no more casual Saturdays)!
Sunday, September 23, 2007
Fall cleaning
I know it traditionally takes place in the spring, but the Geohouse is currently being subject to a good "get-rid-of-the-clutter-and-make-this-house-presentable" exercise.
The linchpin of this effort is not yours truly, but rather, Geogal. You see, she and little Geoana have a new ritual: watching "Clean House" shows we save on the DVR.
And it seems to have an unintended positive consequence. Geogal wants to downsize, clean up, and improve the interior of the house.
More power to her. Blame our current house condition on general malaise, a busy schedule, and lack of company for almost a year.
But now it's looking better, and it seems to be giving us a psychological uplift as well.
Plus, after seeing the "Before" condition of the homes featured on "Clean House," I don't feel quite so negative about my own dwelling. Call it the "At least I'm not that messed-up in the head" effect.
Now, is it time I tackle the garage?
The linchpin of this effort is not yours truly, but rather, Geogal. You see, she and little Geoana have a new ritual: watching "Clean House" shows we save on the DVR.
And it seems to have an unintended positive consequence. Geogal wants to downsize, clean up, and improve the interior of the house.
More power to her. Blame our current house condition on general malaise, a busy schedule, and lack of company for almost a year.
But now it's looking better, and it seems to be giving us a psychological uplift as well.
Plus, after seeing the "Before" condition of the homes featured on "Clean House," I don't feel quite so negative about my own dwelling. Call it the "At least I'm not that messed-up in the head" effect.
Now, is it time I tackle the garage?
Friday, September 14, 2007
Prepare the crow for my consumption
If you're so inclined, read the comments on my last post. If you're not inclined, just know that geobro-in-law took me to task for being down on the Longhorns.
The lesson learned here is not to write about these games until the score is final. Still, it will be interesting to see how UT will fare against Oklahoma, Nebraska, A&M, and even Oklahoma State. But for tomorrow, they should do nothing less than beat the snot out of Central Florida.
At least Texas has a pride-inducing football program. I saw with some dismay that my alma mater (New Mexico State Cow College) is facing Auburn on the 22nd.
What the fark? I thought they were moving away from these money/prostitution games.
(long sigh)
At least I can enjoy watching the Nebraska/USC game. One of the rare times I will root for Nebraska.
(Speaking of that--Q: What does the "N" on Nebraska's football helmets stand for?
A: Nowledge)
The lesson learned here is not to write about these games until the score is final. Still, it will be interesting to see how UT will fare against Oklahoma, Nebraska, A&M, and even Oklahoma State. But for tomorrow, they should do nothing less than beat the snot out of Central Florida.
At least Texas has a pride-inducing football program. I saw with some dismay that my alma mater (New Mexico State Cow College) is facing Auburn on the 22nd.
What the fark? I thought they were moving away from these money/prostitution games.
At least I can enjoy watching the Nebraska/USC game. One of the rare times I will root for Nebraska.
(Speaking of that--Q: What does the "N" on Nebraska's football helmets stand for?
A: Nowledge)
Saturday, September 08, 2007
Saturday channel-hopping
Just college gridiron action, of course.
Three observations:
1) I was as surprised as anyone that Oregon put such a walloping on Michigan. Yeesh, the Wolverines must really stink.
But I think the best quote I've seen regarding that game comes from Mitch Albom of the Detroit Free Press:
"I hate to put it this way, but there were Lions games that were less embarrassing than this."
2) Could there be a changing of the guard in Texas? By that, I mean, could the football power be switching from Austin to College Station? While I thought the Aggies had put the game away with about 2 minutes to go in the game, imagine my surprise when I turned the DirecTV tuner to FSN to catch the Longhorns-Horned Frogs game, and instead saw the A&M game in its third overtime. Sure, the Aggies nearly lost the game, but they were able to put it away. That brings me to...
3) My mother will disown me for this (not to mention never again being invited to Geosister and Geobrother-in-law's house again), but I think the Longhorns are overrated this year. Regarding the aforementioned UT-TCU matchup, the 'Horns are down 10-zip going into the locker room. Guess I'll sign off now and see if Colt McCoy and company can pull off an upset in the second half. (See, family members? I haven't dissed the Longhorns completely. At least they're not Michigan.)
Three observations:
1) I was as surprised as anyone that Oregon put such a walloping on Michigan. Yeesh, the Wolverines must really stink.
But I think the best quote I've seen regarding that game comes from Mitch Albom of the Detroit Free Press:
"I hate to put it this way, but there were Lions games that were less embarrassing than this."
2) Could there be a changing of the guard in Texas? By that, I mean, could the football power be switching from Austin to College Station? While I thought the Aggies had put the game away with about 2 minutes to go in the game, imagine my surprise when I turned the DirecTV tuner to FSN to catch the Longhorns-Horned Frogs game, and instead saw the A&M game in its third overtime. Sure, the Aggies nearly lost the game, but they were able to put it away. That brings me to...
3) My mother will disown me for this (not to mention never again being invited to Geosister and Geobrother-in-law's house again), but I think the Longhorns are overrated this year. Regarding the aforementioned UT-TCU matchup, the 'Horns are down 10-zip going into the locker room. Guess I'll sign off now and see if Colt McCoy and company can pull off an upset in the second half. (See, family members? I haven't dissed the Longhorns completely. At least they're not Michigan.)
Monday, September 03, 2007
Quick sports notes
Just some observations from college football's opening weekend:
Need any more proof that collegiate sports has a high level of psychological importance? Just look at the opening moments of the Virginia Tech/East Carolina game. How many times did the announcers talk about "healing?"
I was unable to catch the Texas/Arkansas State game (just no TV coverage of it out in these parts). But from what I heard, the Longhorns need to get with it, or else. Last year's loss to A&M is still leaving a bad taste in the mouths of the Burnt Orange faithful.
I watched all of the California/Tennessee game. (OK, I admit it. I really wanted to hear the UT band play "Rocky Top.") And the game itself did not disappoint. Either both of those teams are really good, or both of those teams have a porous defense. (I'm guessing the former.)
Lastly, I'm checking the scoreboard on the Sunday sports page, looking for my alma mater. Don't see them in the W or L column. Then I'm thinking to myself, "Why didn't they play?" A few minutes later, I'm looking at the scoreboard on ESPN.com. Only then do I notice they actually played last Thursday.
And won.
Not a bad start to tailgating/pigskin time.
Need any more proof that collegiate sports has a high level of psychological importance? Just look at the opening moments of the Virginia Tech/East Carolina game. How many times did the announcers talk about "healing?"
I was unable to catch the Texas/Arkansas State game (just no TV coverage of it out in these parts). But from what I heard, the Longhorns need to get with it, or else. Last year's loss to A&M is still leaving a bad taste in the mouths of the Burnt Orange faithful.
I watched all of the California/Tennessee game. (OK, I admit it. I really wanted to hear the UT band play "Rocky Top.") And the game itself did not disappoint. Either both of those teams are really good, or both of those teams have a porous defense. (I'm guessing the former.)
Lastly, I'm checking the scoreboard on the Sunday sports page, looking for my alma mater. Don't see them in the W or L column. Then I'm thinking to myself, "Why didn't they play?" A few minutes later, I'm looking at the scoreboard on ESPN.com. Only then do I notice they actually played last Thursday.
And won.
Not a bad start to tailgating/pigskin time.
August in the rear view
I'm glad that month is over with.
Or am I?
August certainly presented more than its share of difficulties and hard times. High stress was the order of the day in the Geohouse for a majority of the eighth month of 2007.
But wait a minute. The latter part of August also had some high points. Several days away from the house, the jobs, the old grind. Several days of peace and quiet (no little one to shuttle to and from school, feed, etc.) and catching some rays by the poolside certainly had their intended effect.
So I suppose I can say August took away and then gave. Wonder what September has in store?
Or am I?
August certainly presented more than its share of difficulties and hard times. High stress was the order of the day in the Geohouse for a majority of the eighth month of 2007.
But wait a minute. The latter part of August also had some high points. Several days away from the house, the jobs, the old grind. Several days of peace and quiet (no little one to shuttle to and from school, feed, etc.) and catching some rays by the poolside certainly had their intended effect.
So I suppose I can say August took away and then gave. Wonder what September has in store?
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
I'm not a comedian, but....
Actually, I do enjoy good stand-up. Case in point: When Geogal and I drove to Palm Springs a couple of Saturdays ago, the entire four-hour journey consisted of us listening to Blue Collar Comedy, Channel 103 on Sirius Satellite Radio.
We laughed out loud numerous times.
Anyway, why does the National Weather Service feel the need to issue a "heat advisory" for the Arizona desert in late August?
Just wondering.
We laughed out loud numerous times.
Anyway, why does the National Weather Service feel the need to issue a "heat advisory" for the Arizona desert in late August?
Just wondering.
Sunday, August 26, 2007
Return to sanity, return to the keyboard
The computer keyboard, that is.
Today marks the end of vacation time for us. Geogal and I enjoyed sunny Palm Springs while little Geoana had a great visit with her grandparents in the Lone Star State.
Speaking of which, yesterday was one of the longest days the little one and I have spent, due to having an early flight out of Austin. After factoring in the drive time to the airport, we determined we would have to arise out of slumber at 4 a.m.
4 a.m. Texas time. 2 a.m. God's time.
An uneventful flight, no problems with getting the luggage, and driving home in a rainstorm found us back at the Geohouse, where Geogal informed us she had not slept well overnight due to the thunder and lightning.
Needless to say, none of us needed to be rocked to sleep last night.
And we all reposed well. The moods are better today, not a minute too soon. Geoana is performing in a church musical this evening. (I am shooting video of it for posterity. I will provide all of the family members with a DVD copy once it's edited to my liking.)
How was the vacation, you may ask?
Very relaxing. We didn't do anything. (Isn't that the purpose of these times away?)
Now, back to the old grind...
Today marks the end of vacation time for us. Geogal and I enjoyed sunny Palm Springs while little Geoana had a great visit with her grandparents in the Lone Star State.
Speaking of which, yesterday was one of the longest days the little one and I have spent, due to having an early flight out of Austin. After factoring in the drive time to the airport, we determined we would have to arise out of slumber at 4 a.m.
4 a.m. Texas time. 2 a.m. God's time.
An uneventful flight, no problems with getting the luggage, and driving home in a rainstorm found us back at the Geohouse, where Geogal informed us she had not slept well overnight due to the thunder and lightning.
Needless to say, none of us needed to be rocked to sleep last night.
And we all reposed well. The moods are better today, not a minute too soon. Geoana is performing in a church musical this evening. (I am shooting video of it for posterity. I will provide all of the family members with a DVD copy once it's edited to my liking.)
How was the vacation, you may ask?
Very relaxing. We didn't do anything. (Isn't that the purpose of these times away?)
Now, back to the old grind...
Thursday, August 16, 2007
Flying light and eating heavy
And yesterday went off with nary a hitch as well!
Did I forget to mention that this week is an unusual one for me?
It is. Yesterday morning, little Geoana and I boarded a plane for Austin, Texas. We then met my mom and dad, and the little one is now in the throes of enjoying a stay at the grandparent's house.
What about me? I boarded a return flight a few hours after arriving in The Lone Star State and was back in Phoenix before suppertime.
And today, considering the weather concerns from Tropical Storm Erin, I'm glad yesterday was the cheap airfare day. Going today would have been horrid for all involved.
The only thing that went awry yesterday was being unable to visit with my folks over the noon meal. We intended to patronize one of the restaurants at the Austin airport. However, it turned out just about all of the eateries were inside the terminal (that is, beyond the security check). So, we finally decided to have Grandma and Grandpa take the little one, visit a fast food place, then head home, while I would have a little time to myself before again taking flight. My only hope was to find some true “Texas” food.
I didn't have to look far.
Strolling among the eateries, I noticed one called “The Salt Lick.” Eureka! BBQ!!!
You see, I was secretly hoping to enjoy the slow-smoked meat for which Texas is known worldwide. And The Salt Lick did not disappoint. In fact, the platter I purchased was so loaded with vittles I wondered if I would even finish it.
I did. (But I sure didn't have to eat again for many hours.)
After eating, I walked around the terminal for a while. Then I saw it.
Harlon's Barbecue.
Not one, but two BBQ joints in the airport. And Harlon's actually had two eateries in the terminal. I had to laugh out loud. Here I was, hoping to find one place with BBQ, and this airport has two.
Only in Texas.
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
An antidote for worry
The people who follow the 12 Steps have a saying. The axiom is so old and so popular that even many people who never darkened the doorstep of an AA meeting know it: "One day at a time."
Meaning: Don't dwell on the future, on what may happen days, weeks, or years down the road. Just take care of today's stuff today.
Some folks have even taken the slogan one step further. Such as "one hour at a time," or "one minute at a time." Whatever it takes.
I think I said the "one minute at a time" to myself numerous times yesterday. It was a packed day and filled with tasks that were outside my normal routine. Take the car to the body shop, secure a rental car, take little Geoana to grandma's house, participate in a professional function, retrieve Geoana, work out at the gym much later than usual (meaning more crowded), then prepare the evening meal.
And guess what? It all went off without a hitch. I need to take yesterday and file it in the "make sure you remember this" part of my mind for use in the future. To be sure, you the reader might not think that what I just listed entailed any type of stressful day, but remember you were not in my shoes! Plus, I have a strong sense God is using my experiences to break me of my worry habit.
Meaning: Don't dwell on the future, on what may happen days, weeks, or years down the road. Just take care of today's stuff today.
Some folks have even taken the slogan one step further. Such as "one hour at a time," or "one minute at a time." Whatever it takes.
I think I said the "one minute at a time" to myself numerous times yesterday. It was a packed day and filled with tasks that were outside my normal routine. Take the car to the body shop, secure a rental car, take little Geoana to grandma's house, participate in a professional function, retrieve Geoana, work out at the gym much later than usual (meaning more crowded), then prepare the evening meal.
And guess what? It all went off without a hitch. I need to take yesterday and file it in the "make sure you remember this" part of my mind for use in the future. To be sure, you the reader might not think that what I just listed entailed any type of stressful day, but remember you were not in my shoes! Plus, I have a strong sense God is using my experiences to break me of my worry habit.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)