Just realized it. The braces are off. It's a good thing. My only aunt is getting older and in an assisted living home. For no logical reason, this saddens me more than it should. I guess it's just that she's the last of that "older generation" to go...

Survived a "murder board" at work. Sort of. This prompted me to find the following: http://www.jist.com/shop/web/best-jobs-lists/the-20-jobs-with-the-least-contact-with-others

Going to do a benefit for Drew at my house the 13th. What else can you do?

Been talking to Dirk's mom quite a bit. Thought folks would like to know about where his family is from, and some nice Viking history from her side:

"Even though Dirk visited our cottage only once, I feel his spirit there very strongly. We built a small tower next to the cottage (it shows in my pictures) and I always imagined Dirk up there. We ( Read more... )

Did I call them Torquemada's assistants before?  That was generous, kind even. It was a gracious compliment to their artistry but nowhere near the level of accreditation they should have been granted. They are the assistants to the demon DeSade would surely have become had he been part of an RPG. They have leveled up beyond Torquemada and his ( Read more... )

Misha H O'Doyle committed suicide. Not sure who knew her, so it's on here for the old crowd. Contact Dave Dugard or Prevo.

Yesterday I made truffles. Deep, dark truffles with Callebaut chocolate ganache laden with cream, butter, and the richness of Golden Lion syrup. I tempered the Callebaut chocolate shell. I dusted them with an outer sprinkling of cocoa powder. All 25 went into the fridge because I was afraid the tempering process (2 heatings, seeding, cooling, etc) ( Read more... )

I remember years ago finding "I love it when you call me names" and roaring with laughter. That along with "Missionary Man" became the soundtrack to certain friends and their associations. Lately, I've discovered the hidden depths to such songs as "The Weakness in Me". She's really a talented lady.

Fairly fair NYE.

It is the misery we share that makes us all laugh. Hope folks enjoy. I've also discovered Emo Phillips. Snicker ( Read more... )

If you like beer and crave a deeper understanding about how it’s made and how the American beer industry works, then Arlington Cinema & Drafthouse (2903 Columbia Pike) is the place to be tomorrow night ( Read more... )

About Driving in Italy ( Read more... )