Inspired by this book, I asked my students to write a letter of advice to President Obama.
What follows are some of the highlights:
Me, my mom, my dad, sister, dog, and cats are all so happy that you are our president. I think you should fix the the economy and all the other wrongs Bush did.
I know that our country is in trouble with all sorts of things like the economy, the war in Iraq, and health care. But I know that YOU will change all of these things and more. How does your family feel about you becoming President of the United States? Did you get to spend a lot of time with them on the campaign? Hope you have a good time being president for the next 4 years.
Hi Obama. Can you please fix the economy and stop wars?
Something that I want you to do is stop extinction of animals because not every human is nice and humans don't get extincted.
I’m really glad that you won the election because my mom said that if another Republican won, we were going to move out of the country and I’m glad you won so now I don’t have to move out of the country. You are really lucky to live in the White House and your kids Malia and Sasha are really lucky to live in the White House with a bowling alley and a movie theater and tons of rooms. I'd love to live in the White House.
I think you should paint the White House blue because that will show everyone that you are a Democrat. I also think you should get a Labradoodle. I also think you should make gay marriage legal in every state because gay people have rights to love each other for who they are. And one more thing. My cousin told me there is a virus in banana trees that are killing the bananas so I think you should get expert scientists to find the virus so that they can stop it. They make these really tasty banana cream chocolates at the Coco Bar. So please, please do it!
I think you should really try to help the economy because if you don’t you’re going to go to the pound and say “I’m looking for a German Shepard for my daughters, do you have any?” And the guy will say “Yes we do. Normally they cost $1 but because the economy is bad they cost $100,000,000,000,000.00. But because you are the president, we'll lower it to $99,999,999,999,999.00 Ok?" And it will be too much so you won't get a German Shepard, but you'll fix the economy, I know it.
I am 10 years old and my father runs a division of a hedge fund, so I get a good look at stocks (though I can't understand the graphs at all). I think that your inauguration is probably the milestone of the decade that we must break the color barrier of only old, white men becoming president. You came along and smashed the color barrier! I hope you will be the best president that ever was and ever will be. I admire your ability to speak in great crowds so powerfully.
I think you will be a great president because you have a great talent that is unique and nobody else will be born with. I think you should make sure that everybody can go to a good school and not be teased because of who they are.
Here is a list of things you should do:
1. Spend more time with your family.
2. Try to fix the economy.
3. Stop the war in Iraq.
4. Give yourself a break.
5. Lower taxes.
6. Make more jobs for people.
7. Try to get this letter.
I hope you can change the economy, the police, stop the wars, the police, stop global warming, and lower the prices of video games.
I have some suggestions for you about your dog.
1. Make sure the dog you get is potty trained.
2. Make sure that your dog/puppy has an absolutely adorable name.
3. Get a dog for a dog shelter rather than a pet store because you can get one for half price at a shelter.
4. Get a small dog rather than a big dog because small dogs are cuter.
Thank you for giving me so much hope this year! I’m positive you will be a great president but there are a few things I’m nervous about: war, economy, foreclosure, and global warming. Also, my street is littered with junk and no one cares!
I am so happy that you are our new President. It is so amazing that once African-Americans were not even allowed to vote and now you are the first African-American president. I know it will be very hard to stop the war but I think that you will do a very good job, at least, trying to help. Will you lower tax prices and help the stock market?
Make sure the puppy doesn't make the White House brown!
I'm so glad you won and not McCain. Can you please make my dad Vice-President? I think you should lower the prices of … taxis and U-haul vans. Songs for iPods should be less money. Do you like the Jonas Brothers?
P.S. Ask Sasha and Malia if they want to have a sleepover with my friends and me.
P.S. My dog is a border collie/black lab. She doesn’t shed a lot and she loves to cuddle.
P.S. I really liked Malia and Sasha at the inauguration. They looked really grown up! And Michelle's dress was just beautiful!
P.S. Write back.
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Sweet and Sour Chicken Stir Fry
After our failed cooking class, Suzy graciously offered to show us the ropes. A few Sundays ago, we took her up on her offer.
Grocery shopping is hard.
Kitchen knives are sharp.
(photo by Balgavy)
I learned how to slice and dice. And mince. And julienne!
I was ridiculed by Balgavy for recording tips to myself on my iPhone. They came in handy the following week though. So suck it, Balgavy!
(photo by Balgavy)
Raw chicken is slimy.
I got burned by hot oil. Cooking is stupid.
(photo by Balgavy)
The gentle touch.
Doesn't look bad.
Mitch came over in the nick of time to share the food. It was quite good.
The following weekend, after a harrowing trip to Fairway, Balgavy came over and we tried the recipe by ourselves. And, of course, SHR was around to help.
(photo by Balgavy)
Yummy
I can't say that I like cooking all that much but I'm gung ho for the next lesson. Bring it on.
Grocery shopping is hard.
Kitchen knives are sharp.
(photo by Balgavy)I learned how to slice and dice. And mince. And julienne!
I was ridiculed by Balgavy for recording tips to myself on my iPhone. They came in handy the following week though. So suck it, Balgavy!
(photo by Balgavy)Raw chicken is slimy.
I got burned by hot oil. Cooking is stupid.
(photo by Balgavy)The gentle touch.
Doesn't look bad.
Mitch came over in the nick of time to share the food. It was quite good.
The following weekend, after a harrowing trip to Fairway, Balgavy came over and we tried the recipe by ourselves. And, of course, SHR was around to help.
(photo by Balgavy)Yummy
I can't say that I like cooking all that much but I'm gung ho for the next lesson. Bring it on.
Sunday, January 25, 2009
O'Connor's: The End?
On Tuesday morning, I happened to walk past O'Connor's and saw a handwritten note that stated that they were closed for the day but would reopen on Wednesday.
Um, apparently not. Jason sent me a link last week.
It states:
The new owner of O'Connor's also owns a "construction" company, (they actually do more demolition than construction). So he decided to excavate the backyard as part of a planned expansion, basement for walk-in cooler, tap beer systems etc. and a room for parties or some crap. Anyway on Tuesday after he decided to ignore city regs for this type of excavation, sheeting and shoring to prevent undermining the foundation of his or other buildings nearby, the whole back wall of O'Connor's collapsed into the hole he'd made of the backyard. Neighboring building's residents noticing stufff fall off the walls call Dept of Buildings, Stop Work order is issued, the Office of Emergency Management comes down and orders evacuation, blah blah blah..
Even though I don't think I've even been there since Bart's last night, this still makes me sad. I spent many a good night there for many years. I'm thinking of putting some Bud on ice and toasting O'Connor's one last time. If I only had some Bud in the house.
Check out the first photo gallery ever on balgavy.com. O'Connor's of course.
Um, apparently not. Jason sent me a link last week.
It states:
The new owner of O'Connor's also owns a "construction" company, (they actually do more demolition than construction). So he decided to excavate the backyard as part of a planned expansion, basement for walk-in cooler, tap beer systems etc. and a room for parties or some crap. Anyway on Tuesday after he decided to ignore city regs for this type of excavation, sheeting and shoring to prevent undermining the foundation of his or other buildings nearby, the whole back wall of O'Connor's collapsed into the hole he'd made of the backyard. Neighboring building's residents noticing stufff fall off the walls call Dept of Buildings, Stop Work order is issued, the Office of Emergency Management comes down and orders evacuation, blah blah blah..
Even though I don't think I've even been there since Bart's last night, this still makes me sad. I spent many a good night there for many years. I'm thinking of putting some Bud on ice and toasting O'Connor's one last time. If I only had some Bud in the house.
Check out the first photo gallery ever on balgavy.com. O'Connor's of course.
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
All Hail Alexander the Great
Every hockey season, I make a vow with myself to go to a game. Every season, I fail in my pledge.
This year, Jamie made sure that I got to one. He put together an outing to see the Islanders vs. the Caps at the Nassau Colosseum.
On the way, I took a wrong turn and we drove by Shea. Or I should say what remains of Shea. I had to step out and take a picture. This wasn't quite as exciting as the time Bill, Rich, and I snuck into the shell of Memorial Stadium but it was still pretty great.
On the way, we had the misfortune of following behind this vehicle. Yikes.
(photo by Jason)
What better way to celebrate MLK Day than to go watch the whitest sport in the world?
The last game I attended was a Caps game in 8th grade as part of a Jewish youth group outing. My friend Jason C and I got stranded at a 7-11 after the game. Stone Groove was none too pleased to get a call from me at 11:30 requesting a ride home from the 7-11. That slurpee tasted fantastic though.
My first faceoff since 1987.
The last time I was at a game, there was no such thing as T-Shirt Launches from the Zamboni.
I didn't take too many action shots. Damn, this game moves real quick like.
Erik snapped this sneaky shot of me and submitted me for "Fan of the Game." I can't believe I didn't win.
Before the game, I couldn't name one current hockey player. Dino Cicarelli doesn't play anymore?
Chris Larry taught me a few things. But the main thing that I needed to learn was that Alex Ovechkin was the only name I needed to know.
Sure enough, he was brilliant. The Caps won 2-1 in overtime. Ovechkin scored both goals.
Caps win! Caps win!
I liked the game a bit even though it clearly wasn't the most scintillating example of NHL action. It almost had the feel of a Tuesday night Royals game. No real excitement from the Islanders or the fans.
Finally, check out the movie from earlier in the day of Jason showing off his good aim at the back of one of the famed Pratt mansions.
This year, Jamie made sure that I got to one. He put together an outing to see the Islanders vs. the Caps at the Nassau Colosseum.
On the way, I took a wrong turn and we drove by Shea. Or I should say what remains of Shea. I had to step out and take a picture. This wasn't quite as exciting as the time Bill, Rich, and I snuck into the shell of Memorial Stadium but it was still pretty great.
On the way, we had the misfortune of following behind this vehicle. Yikes.
(photo by Jason)What better way to celebrate MLK Day than to go watch the whitest sport in the world?
The last game I attended was a Caps game in 8th grade as part of a Jewish youth group outing. My friend Jason C and I got stranded at a 7-11 after the game. Stone Groove was none too pleased to get a call from me at 11:30 requesting a ride home from the 7-11. That slurpee tasted fantastic though.
My first faceoff since 1987.
The last time I was at a game, there was no such thing as T-Shirt Launches from the Zamboni.
I didn't take too many action shots. Damn, this game moves real quick like.
Erik snapped this sneaky shot of me and submitted me for "Fan of the Game." I can't believe I didn't win.
Before the game, I couldn't name one current hockey player. Dino Cicarelli doesn't play anymore?
Chris Larry taught me a few things. But the main thing that I needed to learn was that Alex Ovechkin was the only name I needed to know.
Sure enough, he was brilliant. The Caps won 2-1 in overtime. Ovechkin scored both goals.
Caps win! Caps win!
I liked the game a bit even though it clearly wasn't the most scintillating example of NHL action. It almost had the feel of a Tuesday night Royals game. No real excitement from the Islanders or the fans.
Finally, check out the movie from earlier in the day of Jason showing off his good aim at the back of one of the famed Pratt mansions.
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Obama!
The Inauguration at Frank's Lounge.
What's everyone saying on Facebook?
(photo by Jim)
What a day.
- Loved Aretha's hat
- I was perturbed by Warren's skeevy pronunciation of Malia and Sasha.
- I enjoyed the cheer at Frank's that erupted when Obama mentioned the nonbelievers amongst us.
- Liked the speech. Favorite parts:
"As for our common defense, we reject as false the choice between our safety and our ideals. Our Founding Fathers, faced with perils we can scarcely imagine, drafted a charter to assure the rule of law and the rights of man, a charter expanded by the blood of generations. Those ideals still light the world, and we will not give them up for expedience's sake. And so to all other peoples and governments who are watching today, from the grandest capitals to the small village where my father was born: know that America is a friend of each nation and every man, woman, and child who seeks a future of peace and dignity, and we are ready to lead once more."
"To the Muslim world, we seek a new way forward, based on mutual interest and mutual respect. To those leaders around the globe who seek to sow conflict, or blame their society's ills on the West — know that your people will judge you on what you can build, not what you destroy. To those who cling to power through corruption and deceit and the silencing of dissent, know that you are on the wrong side of history; but that we will extend a hand if you are willing to unclench your fist."
- Loved Bush going away in the helicopter.
- Loved Sasha giving the hang loose sign during the parade.
I just realized though that during the years 1961 - 2008, there have been 4 Democrats in the White House and 5 Republicans. During the Republican tenure, there have been zero Yankees championships. In the years that Democrats have been in the White House, the Yankees have won eight championships.
Kennedy - 2
Carter - 2
Clinton - 4
That's 0 fer 28 with Republicans in office and 8 for 20 with Dems in. I don't like those odds.
I have a bad feeling about this upcoming baseball season.
But a very good one for our country.
Then again, the Yankees didn't win any in the LBJ administration which undoubtedly will make a certain British dude I know quite happy.
What's everyone saying on Facebook?
(photo by Jim)What a day.
- Loved Aretha's hat
- I was perturbed by Warren's skeevy pronunciation of Malia and Sasha.
- I enjoyed the cheer at Frank's that erupted when Obama mentioned the nonbelievers amongst us.
- Liked the speech. Favorite parts:
"As for our common defense, we reject as false the choice between our safety and our ideals. Our Founding Fathers, faced with perils we can scarcely imagine, drafted a charter to assure the rule of law and the rights of man, a charter expanded by the blood of generations. Those ideals still light the world, and we will not give them up for expedience's sake. And so to all other peoples and governments who are watching today, from the grandest capitals to the small village where my father was born: know that America is a friend of each nation and every man, woman, and child who seeks a future of peace and dignity, and we are ready to lead once more."
"To the Muslim world, we seek a new way forward, based on mutual interest and mutual respect. To those leaders around the globe who seek to sow conflict, or blame their society's ills on the West — know that your people will judge you on what you can build, not what you destroy. To those who cling to power through corruption and deceit and the silencing of dissent, know that you are on the wrong side of history; but that we will extend a hand if you are willing to unclench your fist."
- Loved Bush going away in the helicopter.
- Loved Sasha giving the hang loose sign during the parade.
I just realized though that during the years 1961 - 2008, there have been 4 Democrats in the White House and 5 Republicans. During the Republican tenure, there have been zero Yankees championships. In the years that Democrats have been in the White House, the Yankees have won eight championships.
Kennedy - 2
Carter - 2
Clinton - 4
That's 0 fer 28 with Republicans in office and 8 for 20 with Dems in. I don't like those odds.
I have a bad feeling about this upcoming baseball season.
But a very good one for our country.
Then again, the Yankees didn't win any in the LBJ administration which undoubtedly will make a certain British dude I know quite happy.
Just A Few Hours More!
I wasn't sure what to post about today. I don't really have anything profound to say but I wanted to put something in this space.
Maybe this picture that SHR put together of my folks?
Royal Forest Ct is indeed quite excited about today.
Instead I'll simply post a link to Jim's writing from November. This picture encapsulates the hope and the history in the making more than anything I could have come up with this morning.
Oh yeah, this is pretty good too.
Enjoy the day everybody.
Maybe this picture that SHR put together of my folks?
Royal Forest Ct is indeed quite excited about today.Instead I'll simply post a link to Jim's writing from November. This picture encapsulates the hope and the history in the making more than anything I could have come up with this morning.
Oh yeah, this is pretty good too.Enjoy the day everybody.
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Listmaker Presents, Vol. 4
I took '08 off, but I promise good things for '09. Now online. Click here to download.
1. The Searchers - Hearts in Her Eyes, 1979
This band was always one of Stone Groove's favorites. I grew up listening to their classic 60's songs all the time. This was on their late 70's comeback album. It had this cover of a Records song as well as a Nick Lowe cover. It was a damn good album.
For some reason, this song ended up becoming the song that we would always listen to on the way to Orioles games. I have no idea how it got started but we used to go to a lot of games with some neighborhood teenagers who befriended my dad so they could come over to listen to records. This was the song that we'd always put on via cassette when we entered the Harbor Tunnel on the way to Memorial Stadium. As a seven-year-old, I used to like to pretend the song was really called Farts in Her Eyes.
2. Nick Lowe - Rollers Show, 1978
In the U.K., this great Lowe album was released as Jesus of Cool. That didn't pass U.S. muster. Here it was released as Pure Pop For Now People. Last year, the LP was re-released for its 30th anniversary. I had never heard this song but I can't get enough of it. Apparently, this was on the Jesus version but not the American version. Lowe is another Stone Groove favorite. I'll have to put a Dave Edmunds song on the next mix.
3. Deerhoof - Basket Ball Get Your Groove Back, 2008
If there was any justice in the world, this song would become the next big sports anthem.
4. The Feelies - Loveless Love, 1980
In high school, I had one of the later Feelies albums. I liked it but it didn't blow me away. I heard this song for the first time recently when I was watching the movie Smithereens. Luckily for me, SHR had it. I don't even know what to say about this song other than it's perfect. Enjoy.
5. Caribou - Eli, 2007
One of SHR's faves of the recent past.
6. The Dodos - Jody, 2008
I was against this band on principal because I didn't like the band name. Then I listened to the album and kind of liked it. Then I listened to it some more and began to really like it. Melodic as all get out.
7. Rodriguez - Rich Folks Hoax, 1970
So this guy releases this album to little fanfare in 1970. Nothing really happens. He gets on with his life. In the 80's, his album becomes popular in South Africa after a similar boost in popularity in Australia and New Zealand in the late 70's. The album was reissued last year in the States. It sounds very much of its time but not dated in a bad way. Well worth seeking out.
8. Jacques Dutronc - Hippie Hippie Hourrah, 1968
I loved this song the first time I heard it as a Black Lips cover. I loved it even more when I heard the original on a Noiseboy mix.
9. Ify Jerry Krusade - Everybody Likes Something Good, 1970
Agreed. This comes from the compilation of Nigerian music that easily features the best cover of the year.
10. Young-Holt Trio - Wack Wack, 1966
Jeremy gave me this on a mix years ago. It was on a good comp of Brunswick Records songs that recently came out and I was reacquainted with my love for it.
11. The Baseball Project - Harvey Haddix, 2008
One of the greatest crimes in baseball history is that Harvey Haddix's 12 perfect innings are not considered a perfect game because he lost it in the 13th. I really should have had this song be track number 12 in tribute to Haddix's 12 perfect innings. Pete Buck almost has won back my respect.
12. John Fogerty - I Can't Take it No More, 2007
File this one alongside Fortunate Son as one of Fogerty's angriest gems.
13. Gentleman Jesse - Highland Crawler, 2008
Everytime this song comes on, SHR and get tricked into thinking it is Nick Lowe. No worries though, we love this song.
14. Sloan - Cheap Champaign, 2008
Sloan's previous album had 30 songs on it. Their current one only has 13. Slackers. Does anyone do wimpy pop better than these guys? I figured I might as well place the song with the choppy beginning right after the one with the abrupt ending so listeners only had to have one brief moment of unpleasantness. You're welcome.
15. Gilberto Gil -Frevo Rasgado, 1968
Dave lent me this awhile ago. Good times.
16. Stormy - The Devastator, 1967
One of two songs on this mix from the Eccentric Soul collection that has set my world afire over the past couple of years. I burned a bunch of these from Hot Tub Eric in the summer of '07. Both of the tracks on this mix are from the Twinight comp.
17. The Records - Teenarama, 1979
I've been on a Records kick recently. Another Stone Groove fave. They are best known for the classic Starry Eyes. This song makes me feel icky. But it is so catchy that it is difficult to resist. Check out some of the lyrics:
I wanted a change of style
To be with a juvenile
For a week
So I rented an apartment
Then you went and lost the key
Sugar candy
Is all you ever eat
You're so skinny
You're so sweet
Gross. Give this song one listen and you won't be able to get it out of your head. And then you'll feel guilty.
18. The Collins Kids - Hot Rod, 1957
Maybe one day, my Rod Stewart inspired team will actually win a championship.
19. Stephen Malkmus & The Jicks - Gardenia, 2008
If this song had been on Crooked Rain, Crooked Rain, it would be considered a Pavement classic. Instead, it is just a great song lost in the shuffle of a whole lotta wonking.
20. Alemayehu Eschete - Tchero Adari Negn, 1970
Part of the stellar series, Ethiopiques. I have 6 of the 23 CDs in the collection. Every single one I've heard has been great. Ethiopian music from the 60's and 70's.
21. Jo Ann Garrett - Goin' Man Huntin, 1970
Also from the Twinight collection. I'm pretty sure that Eddie Murray would have dug all of the jamz on this collection.
22. Crooked Fingers - Your Control, 2008
Poor poor sweet Eric Bachmann.While newbies like M. Ward run laps around you, you keep plugging along putting out great album after great album. Not even this duet with Neko Case seems to be doing much for your career.
23. Bon Iver - For Emma, 2007
Speaking of newbies getting a lot of good press and Letterman gigs.
1. The Searchers - Hearts in Her Eyes, 1979This band was always one of Stone Groove's favorites. I grew up listening to their classic 60's songs all the time. This was on their late 70's comeback album. It had this cover of a Records song as well as a Nick Lowe cover. It was a damn good album.
For some reason, this song ended up becoming the song that we would always listen to on the way to Orioles games. I have no idea how it got started but we used to go to a lot of games with some neighborhood teenagers who befriended my dad so they could come over to listen to records. This was the song that we'd always put on via cassette when we entered the Harbor Tunnel on the way to Memorial Stadium. As a seven-year-old, I used to like to pretend the song was really called Farts in Her Eyes.
2. Nick Lowe - Rollers Show, 1978
In the U.K., this great Lowe album was released as Jesus of Cool. That didn't pass U.S. muster. Here it was released as Pure Pop For Now People. Last year, the LP was re-released for its 30th anniversary. I had never heard this song but I can't get enough of it. Apparently, this was on the Jesus version but not the American version. Lowe is another Stone Groove favorite. I'll have to put a Dave Edmunds song on the next mix.
3. Deerhoof - Basket Ball Get Your Groove Back, 2008
If there was any justice in the world, this song would become the next big sports anthem.
4. The Feelies - Loveless Love, 1980
In high school, I had one of the later Feelies albums. I liked it but it didn't blow me away. I heard this song for the first time recently when I was watching the movie Smithereens. Luckily for me, SHR had it. I don't even know what to say about this song other than it's perfect. Enjoy.
5. Caribou - Eli, 2007
One of SHR's faves of the recent past.
6. The Dodos - Jody, 2008
I was against this band on principal because I didn't like the band name. Then I listened to the album and kind of liked it. Then I listened to it some more and began to really like it. Melodic as all get out.
7. Rodriguez - Rich Folks Hoax, 1970
So this guy releases this album to little fanfare in 1970. Nothing really happens. He gets on with his life. In the 80's, his album becomes popular in South Africa after a similar boost in popularity in Australia and New Zealand in the late 70's. The album was reissued last year in the States. It sounds very much of its time but not dated in a bad way. Well worth seeking out.
8. Jacques Dutronc - Hippie Hippie Hourrah, 1968
I loved this song the first time I heard it as a Black Lips cover. I loved it even more when I heard the original on a Noiseboy mix.
9. Ify Jerry Krusade - Everybody Likes Something Good, 1970
Agreed. This comes from the compilation of Nigerian music that easily features the best cover of the year.
10. Young-Holt Trio - Wack Wack, 1966
Jeremy gave me this on a mix years ago. It was on a good comp of Brunswick Records songs that recently came out and I was reacquainted with my love for it.
11. The Baseball Project - Harvey Haddix, 2008
One of the greatest crimes in baseball history is that Harvey Haddix's 12 perfect innings are not considered a perfect game because he lost it in the 13th. I really should have had this song be track number 12 in tribute to Haddix's 12 perfect innings. Pete Buck almost has won back my respect.
12. John Fogerty - I Can't Take it No More, 2007
File this one alongside Fortunate Son as one of Fogerty's angriest gems.
13. Gentleman Jesse - Highland Crawler, 2008
Everytime this song comes on, SHR and get tricked into thinking it is Nick Lowe. No worries though, we love this song.
14. Sloan - Cheap Champaign, 2008
Sloan's previous album had 30 songs on it. Their current one only has 13. Slackers. Does anyone do wimpy pop better than these guys? I figured I might as well place the song with the choppy beginning right after the one with the abrupt ending so listeners only had to have one brief moment of unpleasantness. You're welcome.
15. Gilberto Gil -Frevo Rasgado, 1968
Dave lent me this awhile ago. Good times.
16. Stormy - The Devastator, 1967
One of two songs on this mix from the Eccentric Soul collection that has set my world afire over the past couple of years. I burned a bunch of these from Hot Tub Eric in the summer of '07. Both of the tracks on this mix are from the Twinight comp.
17. The Records - Teenarama, 1979
I've been on a Records kick recently. Another Stone Groove fave. They are best known for the classic Starry Eyes. This song makes me feel icky. But it is so catchy that it is difficult to resist. Check out some of the lyrics:
I wanted a change of style
To be with a juvenile
For a week
So I rented an apartment
Then you went and lost the key
Sugar candy
Is all you ever eat
You're so skinny
You're so sweet
Gross. Give this song one listen and you won't be able to get it out of your head. And then you'll feel guilty.
18. The Collins Kids - Hot Rod, 1957
Maybe one day, my Rod Stewart inspired team will actually win a championship.
19. Stephen Malkmus & The Jicks - Gardenia, 2008
If this song had been on Crooked Rain, Crooked Rain, it would be considered a Pavement classic. Instead, it is just a great song lost in the shuffle of a whole lotta wonking.
20. Alemayehu Eschete - Tchero Adari Negn, 1970
Part of the stellar series, Ethiopiques. I have 6 of the 23 CDs in the collection. Every single one I've heard has been great. Ethiopian music from the 60's and 70's.
21. Jo Ann Garrett - Goin' Man Huntin, 1970
Also from the Twinight collection. I'm pretty sure that Eddie Murray would have dug all of the jamz on this collection.
22. Crooked Fingers - Your Control, 2008
Poor poor sweet Eric Bachmann.While newbies like M. Ward run laps around you, you keep plugging along putting out great album after great album. Not even this duet with Neko Case seems to be doing much for your career.
23. Bon Iver - For Emma, 2007
Speaking of newbies getting a lot of good press and Letterman gigs.
Monday, January 12, 2009
Sunday, January 11, 2009
Boxing Day in Philadelphia
Wednesday, January 07, 2009
No Ramekins
With Double Trouble on the way, I need to learn how to cook. Balgavy thought it might be fun to learn how to cook as well. So we signed up for a course - three Saturdays mornings in a row.
Unfortunately, we weren't impressed at all with the first class. We need to learn how to make the basics. Instead, we learned how to make things like shrimp cocktail.
And how to dip pretzels in chocolate.
Looks good but it wasn't really what we were hoping to learn.
An unhappy Balgavy.
With two remaining classes and Marc and me on the hook for over two hundred more dollars, Balgavy got to writing. The man is a genius. My favorite Balgavy letter writing moment is from a few years ago when he wasn't happy with the Pittsburgh cab service, wrote a letter to the mayor, and scored some free cab vouchers. The following letter undoubtedly compares favorably with Balgavy's greatest letter writing moments.
Dear ****,
On Saturday, December 6, Listmaker and I attended the class Cooking 101: The Course for Absolute Beginners. Unfortunately, class one of this three-part course was very disappointing.
The structure of the class was poorly designed, ICE was not well prepared and the instructor, while helpful and friendly, was not especially enthusiastic or skilled at teaching novices.
LM and I are definitely absolute beginners in the kitchen. We've not held knives before and putting a pot of boiling water on the stove is about as much cooking as we've done. I'd hoped this class would serve as an introduction to how kitchen tools work with different foods and spices to create the essence of cooking.
The first half hour was spent listening to the instructor read the recipes in the packet we were handed that morning. She hinted at some of the thought behind the dishes, but did little more than read what was written on the page. That reading was followed by ten minutes of demonstrating the chopping of vegetables and one or two other techniques.
The class split into three groups, with each group assigned two of the six main recipes for the day. All groups were expected to make the same dessert. While I appreciate that I was given seven recipes, all covering different, simple aspects to cooking I am quite frustrated that I didn't have the opportunity to try the techniques in most of those recipes. Besides slicing a lemon, my chef's knife wasn't needed Saturday. It was aggravating to not actually chop an onion after being quickly shown how it is done.
My group of four spent the majority of our time peeling and de-veining shrimp for our shrimp cocktail dish. Later in the morning, once we'd assembled the sauce for the shrimp cocktail, the instructor tasted it and began adding more ingredients. She added pinches of salt and dashes of other ingredients but never explained the science or art of why she was doing what she was doing. That very essence of what I thought of as cooking wasn't taught.
While most of the pans, knives and ingredients were readily available, a fair number of items had to be sought from different floors and backrooms, causing an air of confusion in the kitchen. There wasn't enough lettuce. There weren't any ramekins for our sauces. The amount of chocolate initially supplied was low. For a class that teaches the importance of mise en place, the lack of preparation was appalling.
While the other students and I were standing around our workspaces for the second and third hours of the class, I feel like we were shown a lot more than we were expected to do. If I wanted to watch a chef use the tools in the kitchen, I could've watched a video on the internet.
By the time the class ended, I realized I hadn't gotten the instruction and learning experiences I'd hoped for. I spoke with LM and he had very similar reactions. I don't know how the other students felt, but I could see in them a desire to learn and a frustration with what they'd gotten out of the day.
I kindly ask that you refund our class fee for the two remaining classes. LM and I would like to use that money toward paying someone to teach us the basics of cooking via another format.
Kind Regards,
Marc Balgavy
He got us our money back and our next two Saturday mornings were ours again.
But we still don't know how to cook. But that will be solved starting this Sunday when Balgavy and I will be lucky enough to start some private lessons with Handwashings' significant other, Suzy. More to follow.
Hey Marc, do you have your letter to the Pittsburgh mayor anywhere?
Unfortunately, we weren't impressed at all with the first class. We need to learn how to make the basics. Instead, we learned how to make things like shrimp cocktail.
And how to dip pretzels in chocolate.
Looks good but it wasn't really what we were hoping to learn.
An unhappy Balgavy.
With two remaining classes and Marc and me on the hook for over two hundred more dollars, Balgavy got to writing. The man is a genius. My favorite Balgavy letter writing moment is from a few years ago when he wasn't happy with the Pittsburgh cab service, wrote a letter to the mayor, and scored some free cab vouchers. The following letter undoubtedly compares favorably with Balgavy's greatest letter writing moments.
Dear ****,
On Saturday, December 6, Listmaker and I attended the class Cooking 101: The Course for Absolute Beginners. Unfortunately, class one of this three-part course was very disappointing.
The structure of the class was poorly designed, ICE was not well prepared and the instructor, while helpful and friendly, was not especially enthusiastic or skilled at teaching novices.
LM and I are definitely absolute beginners in the kitchen. We've not held knives before and putting a pot of boiling water on the stove is about as much cooking as we've done. I'd hoped this class would serve as an introduction to how kitchen tools work with different foods and spices to create the essence of cooking.
The first half hour was spent listening to the instructor read the recipes in the packet we were handed that morning. She hinted at some of the thought behind the dishes, but did little more than read what was written on the page. That reading was followed by ten minutes of demonstrating the chopping of vegetables and one or two other techniques.
The class split into three groups, with each group assigned two of the six main recipes for the day. All groups were expected to make the same dessert. While I appreciate that I was given seven recipes, all covering different, simple aspects to cooking I am quite frustrated that I didn't have the opportunity to try the techniques in most of those recipes. Besides slicing a lemon, my chef's knife wasn't needed Saturday. It was aggravating to not actually chop an onion after being quickly shown how it is done.
My group of four spent the majority of our time peeling and de-veining shrimp for our shrimp cocktail dish. Later in the morning, once we'd assembled the sauce for the shrimp cocktail, the instructor tasted it and began adding more ingredients. She added pinches of salt and dashes of other ingredients but never explained the science or art of why she was doing what she was doing. That very essence of what I thought of as cooking wasn't taught.
While most of the pans, knives and ingredients were readily available, a fair number of items had to be sought from different floors and backrooms, causing an air of confusion in the kitchen. There wasn't enough lettuce. There weren't any ramekins for our sauces. The amount of chocolate initially supplied was low. For a class that teaches the importance of mise en place, the lack of preparation was appalling.
While the other students and I were standing around our workspaces for the second and third hours of the class, I feel like we were shown a lot more than we were expected to do. If I wanted to watch a chef use the tools in the kitchen, I could've watched a video on the internet.
By the time the class ended, I realized I hadn't gotten the instruction and learning experiences I'd hoped for. I spoke with LM and he had very similar reactions. I don't know how the other students felt, but I could see in them a desire to learn and a frustration with what they'd gotten out of the day.
I kindly ask that you refund our class fee for the two remaining classes. LM and I would like to use that money toward paying someone to teach us the basics of cooking via another format.
Kind Regards,
Marc Balgavy
He got us our money back and our next two Saturday mornings were ours again.
But we still don't know how to cook. But that will be solved starting this Sunday when Balgavy and I will be lucky enough to start some private lessons with Handwashings' significant other, Suzy. More to follow.
Hey Marc, do you have your letter to the Pittsburgh mayor anywhere?
Tuesday, January 06, 2009
Monday, January 05, 2009
A Peanut and the Buddha Holiday Season
Charlie and his Angels
SHR and too young to be nicknamed.
The Peanut
The Buddha
SHR told The Buddha to give me a kiss. Recently, The Buddha has been referring to me as Uncle Daddy.
New Year's Day
The Buddha was fascinated by my beard.
(last 7 photos by SHR)
Last year's Christmas post can be found here.
The Movie
SHR and too young to be nicknamed.
The Peanut
The Buddha
SHR told The Buddha to give me a kiss. Recently, The Buddha has been referring to me as Uncle Daddy.
New Year's Day
The Buddha was fascinated by my beard.
(last 7 photos by SHR)Last year's Christmas post can be found here.
The Movie
Sunday, January 04, 2009
My Last Vacation Without Double Trouble Making Trouble Has Come to a Close
I had a very busy vacation. I saw a bunch of movies. I went to MD to pick up my mom's '99 Maxima for my very own. Thanks Mom and Dad! I haven't had a car in 11 years. But with Double Trouble on the way, we've got to have some easy transportation. While in MD, I hung out with a friend from junior high and high school who I hadn't seen in 13 years. Thanks Facebook!
SHR and I looked at some strollers and car seats. Doubt we'll buy this one but how can I turn down anything with this color scheme?
Other vacation stuff:
SHR and I went to the Whitney. We were underwhelmed by the Calder stuff but loved the Eggleston exhibit. My favorite kind of art is photography that mixes photojournalism with an artist's eye. Not to mention I love Memphis! I want to get a framed print of this famous photo for Double Trouble's room.
Mitch and I went to see Black Watch at St. Ann's. For the most part, I usually see one play a year. This did not disappoint. There are moments of sheer poetry in this play. I can't believe I actually just wrote that.
We went to Jersey twice. In this picture, I was showing the Buddha a movie of her and the Peanut.
(photo by SHR)
On Boxing Day, we went to Philadelphia for the first annual Second Thanksgiving celebration. Jason and Brian checked in on the turkey.
New Year's Day means only one thing - Board Game Party at Balgavy's! Nothing gets the year started right better than a little Tumblin Dice.
We even had some time to get to Rutt's Hut for some dogs as well as Trenton for some pizza.
On one of our many hours spent in the car over the break, SHR commented that I looked like Steven Spielberg. Yikes. Not sure how I feel about that but I do know that it is time to get a new winter jacket.
(photo by SHR)
In the next week or so, I hope to post movies of the Board Game Party, the two trips to Jersey, and the Boxing Day feast in Philly.
In the meantime, check here for some Balgavy pics of the Board Game Party
And check my movie blog. It will be busy.
SHR and I looked at some strollers and car seats. Doubt we'll buy this one but how can I turn down anything with this color scheme?
Other vacation stuff:SHR and I went to the Whitney. We were underwhelmed by the Calder stuff but loved the Eggleston exhibit. My favorite kind of art is photography that mixes photojournalism with an artist's eye. Not to mention I love Memphis! I want to get a framed print of this famous photo for Double Trouble's room.
Mitch and I went to see Black Watch at St. Ann's. For the most part, I usually see one play a year. This did not disappoint. There are moments of sheer poetry in this play. I can't believe I actually just wrote that.
We went to Jersey twice. In this picture, I was showing the Buddha a movie of her and the Peanut.
(photo by SHR)On Boxing Day, we went to Philadelphia for the first annual Second Thanksgiving celebration. Jason and Brian checked in on the turkey.
New Year's Day means only one thing - Board Game Party at Balgavy's! Nothing gets the year started right better than a little Tumblin Dice.
We even had some time to get to Rutt's Hut for some dogs as well as Trenton for some pizza.
On one of our many hours spent in the car over the break, SHR commented that I looked like Steven Spielberg. Yikes. Not sure how I feel about that but I do know that it is time to get a new winter jacket.
(photo by SHR)
In the next week or so, I hope to post movies of the Board Game Party, the two trips to Jersey, and the Boxing Day feast in Philly.
In the meantime, check here for some Balgavy pics of the Board Game Party
And check my movie blog. It will be busy.
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