Book of the Night Club

Well, Crap!

Publishers Weekly reports that Houghton Mifflin Harcourt has asked its editors to stop buying books.

This is just too sad to contemplate, regardless of how long the "temporary" measures last.

Not Necessarily What I Had In Mind

But, you know, certainly worth considering...

Paperless paper.

You Guys...COME ON!

I would really like the dogs to embrace object permanence. Seriously. One of us moves from their line of vision and the other needs to assist the neurotic canine search party. It gets old.

Richard went up into the attic. Icky place, not a place I'm interested in being. But the point is that he was IN the house, and suddenly the was OUT (sort of) the house, and the dogs immediately became concerned. Overly concerned.

So we went outside into the back yard. Then we segued to the front of the house. Then I let Fes check out the basement and Julius was allowed to sweep the bathroom.

Once they were convinced that Daddy was not, in fact, in the house and doing something interesting that might require their input, they settled down on the bed. At which point Richard promptly returned from above.

I cannot win, and I will not try. Sleep now.

So, Wow

Our 44th President is African American. I'll be honest; while I thought I might see it in my lifetime, I never thought it would be this soon.

The world seems overjoyed, and people are walking around with a spring in their step. Blogs and news outlets are filled with wonder as people spoke of tears and fireworks and hope. But, you guys? Not to rain on your parade or anything, but if you've met me you know that's pretty much how I roll.

Barak Obama. I feel he's the better man for the job, but both choices were pretty poor to begin with. He has a lot to learn and, I think more than any President in recent memory, has more to prove. Because I worry that people think he can wave some kind of magic wand and make everything okay. Sorry, it isn't going to happen. He's just a man. True, I think he has a better idea of what is right for this country than McCain did, but internationally? I'm not sure he has the chops, and hope he surrounds himself with strong, experienced advisors. And that he listens to them.

We all need to roll up our sleeves and help him. This country was not built by one person, and it can't be repaired by one. So those estimated 14 million people who turned out to vote that didn't turn up last election time? Get ready and roll your sleeves up; it's going to be a bumpy ride.

A big, crazy day

Regardless of who wins tomorrow, our world will be a different place. We will either have the first African American President, or the first woman Vice President.

That's huge. I hope you went out and voted, if you were eligible.

There is this sense of anticipation everywhere: on the streets, in the grocery store, throughout the 'Net.

And there should be, because this is well and truly a history-making election. Voter turn-out is extremely high, and that makes me proud. Casting your vote means that you care enough about our country to want a change, regardless of who you vote for. Thanks.

In order to stave off additional anxiety I have retired to my bed where I am watching McMillian and Wife while trying to appear nonchalant.

Can't wait for tomorrow.

Day(s) of the Dead

These hearts were woven of human joys and cares,
Washed marvellously with sorrow, swift to mirth.
The years had given them kindness. Dawn was theirs,
And sunset, and the colours of the earth.
These had seen movement, and heard music; known
Slumber and waking; loved; gone proudly friended;
Felt the quick stir of wonder; sat alone;
Touched flowers and furs and cheeks. All this is ended.

- Rupert Brooke
illus. Vesalius