Category: mixed media

my favorite CDs of 2006

See!! I told you I would!!! I have been sick for several days, but I am feeling better, and as a result, it is time… because you really wanted to know; my favorite CDs of 2006!! Now, this list is in no way representative of EVERYTHING I was loving in 2006, because I experienced a resurgence in my music interests half way through the year, and as a result, spent a lot of time catching up with great stuff I had missed… but, a lot of that stuff didn’t come out in 2006, so most of it won’t be on this list. Now, on to the goods. Here is the list of my favorite albums of 2006 (in no particular order, except for number one, because it is definitely my favorite of 2006):

Scissor Sisters – Ta Dah

Basically, this is the best CD of the year by a far. It is no secret how much I love this band, and I was more than excited to hear their sophomore effort, and it was everything I could have hoped for and more. Scissor Sisters are definitely one of the most talented bands in music today, and it is great to see such great music being made.

Stand out tracks: I Don’t Feel Like Dancing, Might Tell You Tonight, Everybody Wants the Same Thing.

Shiny Toy Guns – We Are Pilots

This is probably one of the most infectious pop records I have heard in recent months. I discovered this on one of my favorite pop music blogs, and have been loving it ever since. I describe it as if 80s music were done really really well, and was excellently produced, well, you would get something like this (or, if the Killers were good, they would sound like this). With both male and female leads, this group changes it up throughout the record and gives nothing but well produced pop. Pure candy for the ears. (Additional note: There are songs that were not included on the 2006 release (the major label release) of this record and many are fantastic. Make sure and download them any way you can; you won’t be sorry)
Stand Out Tracks: Don’t Cry Out, Waiting, Rainy Monday.

Dixie Chicks – Taking the Long Way

Controversy erupted on this very blog when I advocated support for the Dixie Chicks because of their outspoken take on politics, and I took flack for implying one should buy a CD because they agree with someone’s politics; but what was missing, was the fact that I love the Chick’s music as well. This CD is perhaps their best, in my opinion, and is obviously a big FU to those fans that turned their backs on them; they are staying, and are extremely talented, whether you want to admit it or not. It seems they don’t care if you do.

Stand out tracks: The Long Way Around, Not Ready To Make Nice, Bitter End.

Hellogoodbye – Zombies! Aliens! Vampires! Dinosaurs!

I discovered this band through the video for the song “Here (In Your Arms), and initially, gave them very little thought. But, that song proved to be so infectious, that I checked out the rest of the CD, and ended up finding one of my favorite records of the year. If you like the aforementioned song, the whole record will fill you with sheer delight. Trust me. They are awesome. I saw them at the Masquerade, and these boys put on a great show, too. Definitely a band to keep your eye, and ears, on.

Stand Out Tracks: All Time Lows, Touchdown Turnaround, I Saw It On Your Keyboard.

Shayne Ward

The self-titled debut of the winner of the UK’s X-Factor has a lot of what Kelly Clarkson’s debut had: Raw talent. Not only is this boy extremely beautiful, he can sing beautifully! I can’t even describe how well he sings, other than to say his version of Over the Rainbow gives me chills. If you love pop, this is totally for you. An appropriate number of covers, and some very well written “launch” singles. Why can’t they do that for the Idols that win here? Oh well, at least we have Shayne…

Stand Out Tracks: No Promises, Stand By Me, Next To Me.

Daughtry

The American Idol cast off proves that not only can he sing, but he’s got the goods to make a great album. This rock album is not what I was expecting from an AI alum, but I am pleased that it wasn’t; it’s excellent! It is seriously an album of singles, great singles. It was obvious when he was on the show that Chris has a talent for rock, and now he has had the chance to prove himself, and prove himself he did. If you like good rock, check this out. It doesn’t hurt that he is definitely nice to look at as well…

Stand Out Tracks: It’s Not Over, Over You, Feels Like Tonight.

Danity Kane

Laugh all you want, but I followed these girls through their grueling tryouts on Making the Band, and they can sing, dance, and do it all. This CD doesn’t disappoint either; I am not a huge hip hop fan, and I love this record. It is just so well produced and fun to listen to. I was glad to see the CD came out so well, because I watched the show in anticipation of their debut, hoping I would be pleased with this group I just wanted to love. Needless to say, I was more than satisfied. Diddy did something great by forming his girl group, and I for one can’t wait to see what they do next.

Stand Out Tracks: One Shot, Hold Me Down, Touching My Body.

All Saints – Studio 1

If you have heard of the All Saints, you should check out what they bring to the table with their “comeback” record. These girls are back with everything I liked about them back in the day (haha, just a few years ago, that is), and totally bring a fresh sound that is great to dance to. This is pop with a pulse. A bunch of the songs definitely have an edgy vibe, but it only brings out the ghettoness I have come to love in the All Saints; trust me, it sounds like you really shouldn’t piss these girls off. This is one import from the UK that you should be ordering if you want to hear a sample of what’s good that is going on over seas.

Stand Out Tracks: Rock Steady, Not Eazy, Hell No.

Dreamgirls Motion Picture Soundtrack (Deluxe Edition)

What else do I need to do to get you to see this movie??? Seriously, one of the best movies of the year, which also happens to be a kick ass musical, has a spot on the favorite CD list because after you see the movie, you will be singing the songs over and over in your head. This edition has every gem from the film, and if you liked this movie, is a CD that should be in your collection. I love when they remake musicals for film and get it right. This is one of those times. Jennifer Hudson is simply amazing. Wow.
Stand Out Tracks: And I’m Telling You, Move, One Night Only (both versions!!!), Listen.

Girls Aloud – The Sound of Girls Aloud… Greatest Hits

Basically, this is the MUST have Girls Aloud CD. It has all of their hits, and even some new great tracks. In case you are like, um, who is Girls Aloud, well, then it is time for you to come out from under that rock and realize that these girls are doing everything they can to save pop overseas… and they are doing a great job! A very danceable group, with the occasional ballad, Girls Aloud usually find themselves at the top of the charts for a good reason; they make great fun music, and I for one, am all about it! If you are just getting into them, this is the CD you want to start with. Now that you know, go and get it now.

Stand Out Tracks: Something Kinda Oooh, The Show, Love Machine, Biology.

Tunng – Comments of the Inner Chorus

The song Woodcat was recommended to me by a friend with a rather eclectic music taste, and I was pleasantly surprised that I liked the weird vibe the song has. Since my interest was peaked, I decided to check out the whole CD, and it has a sound like I haven’t heard before; very airy, natural, acoustic, electronic, with interesting samples of vocal cuts, and just weird sounds in general, all coming together to make an enjoyable musical sound. This is definitely not a radio friendly record, but that is partly why I like it… It is probably the record that if seen in your car, people would be like, WTF? But you would know that it is something pleasant and awesome to listen to. I haven’t heard anything else quite like this.

Stand Out Tracks: Woodcat, Jenny Again, It’s Because We’ve Got Hair.

Indigo Girls – Despite Our Differences

While I don’t think this is the BEST Indigo Girls record, it is definitely a collection of great songs, some of which are fantastic (some of which instantly became favorites of mine). The only ones that I think bring the record down are some weird Amy Ray cuts; but that tends to be the trend with the Indigo Girls when it comes to my personal tastes. If you are a fan of previous Indigo Girls work, you will be satisfied, because if there is one thing that I love about the Girls, is that they know what their fans like, and are fantastic at delivering it; great acoustic rock with heartfelt lyrics. They also put on a damn fine show.

Stand Out Tracks: I Believe In Love (OMG I LOVE THIS SONG), Rock and Roll Heaven’s Gate, Lay My Head Down.

Sugababes – Overloaded: The Singles Collection

Basically, this description should be close to the description of the Girls Aloud CD above; these girls make great pop, and this is the definitive collection of most of their top singles. There are new songs included on the release, with Easy being probably the best song they have put out to date, and if it signals a move in that direction, I am in for the long haul. If you love girls that love to get down, and if you love some just great pop, this is the group for you. Push the Button is probably one of the most addictive songs you will ever here. Be warned. The only thing that I would have loved to have seen on this collection is their insanely amazing cover of the Arctic Monkeys “I Bet That You Look Good On The Dancefloor”; which is much better than the Monkey’s version.

Stand Out Tracks: Push The Button, Easy, Red Dress, Caught In A Moment.

Rascal Flatts – Me and My Gang

I am not usually a country person, but this is the exception; perhaps because they have been nicknamed the boyband of country music. Most of their stuff is sappy ballads, but that is what I love about them. They have had a few stand out songs in the past, which got me to finally look into a whole CD, and surprisingly, I love almost every song on this disc. If you don’t like country, I would give this a try, because it is definitely more pop than country, and some of the lyrics to these songs will bring more than one tear to your eyes. Sappy pop-country ballads… mmm, what more could you want?

Stand Out Tracks: What Hurts The Most, Stand, My Wish.

Pink – I’m Not Dead

I was only interested in this CD because of the song Dear Mr President; which is excellently written and produced, but when I got the CD in the mail, I was surprised to find out that this is a pretty kick ass record. While Pink hasn’t even really been a favorite artist of mine, she has occasionally put out something I really liked, and in this case, she just happened to put a whole album of things I liked. There are a ton of potential singles from this record, many of which have been released overseas, but not here for whatever reason. It is also good to note that this isn’t like the Pink of yesterday… this is much more rock, and I like this direction she is headed in.

Stand Out Tracks: Dear Mr. President, Long Way To Happy, Leave Me Along (I’m Lonely)

Wolfmother

Most people would probably be surprised that I am secretly into hard rock, and specifically hard classic rock, and this is an excellent example of both. Listening to this reminds me a lot of Black Sabbath, and I love it. I discovered this group through their song Woman on Guitar Hero II, and instantly had to hear more. When I got this CD, I was so elated that there was something that could rock the way they used to rock, and stay true to themselves at the same time. If you are a fan of the classic rock sound, and want to hear something new at the same time, these guys may be for you. Their sound also reminds me a lot of White Stripes, but without that creepiness that they give off (at least for me).

Stand Out Tracks: Woman, Dimension, Colossal.

And two honorable mentions (only because if I call them “best of 2006”, I might get egged or something like that, because I am sure many will NOT agree. Either way, they are both lots of fun, and actually are pretty great CDs whether you agree or not; seriously.):

Paris Hilton – Paris

I heard today that there is actually some controversy as to whether or not it is actually Paris singing on this album, and honestly, that doesn’t surprise me, the songs on the record are fun, radio-friendly, and totally dance-tastic. If you love pop as much as I do, and love good pop (not that shit Fergie and Gwen Stefani call pop) then you will appreciate the cheesy deliciousness of this CD. Also, remember, that you don’t always have to take yourself so seriously… this is one excuse to let your hair down and have fun for a minute. I mean, the sample from Grease in I Want You is worth the entire price of the CD in my opinion. Cheesy? Yes. Fun? Hell Yes. Really well produced? Surprisingly… that is why it is so good; NOT Paris Hilton.

Stand Out Tracks: I Want You, Screwed, Turn You On, Nothing In This World.

Pussycat Dolls – PCD

HOT DAMN. Seriously, I tried so fucking hard to resist these bitches, but they kept putting out better and better singles. And then it happened, they dropped fucking Buttons on me. Buttons was, and still remains one of the top 5 songs released in all of 2006. That song is so hot, you better not touch the single too long, or you will get burned. H-O-T is what P-C-D is all about. Sure, they aren’t really a band, they are burlesque act; but they are a really good act, and they can actually sing (well, Nicole can). Either way, they are full of great production, and each single is the type of pop I want to hear on the radio; Black Eyed Peas take note!! This is how it SHOULD be done; stop that shit you are doing.

Stand Out Tracks: Stickwitu, BUTTONS (!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!), I Don’t Need A Man.

Hope you guys liked my list. Let me know what you were digging in 2006; I am always open to new suggestions!!! Also, I know many of you are scratching your head thinking, “Where is Gnarls Barkley?”. While I do like that CD a lot, I think it was WAY over hyped, and I am not going to continue that hype here. It was good, but not THAT great, ya’ll. Also, understand that there are probably other great CDs that came out in 2006, but these are the ones I listened to and fell in love with. Again, if you feel like something is missing, let me know and I will check it out!!! The movie list should be coming up soon too… stay tuned!

year’s end movie and music raves and rants…

I usually do that year end music and movie set of posts, and this year will be no different; only thing is that I will probably have to spill over into 2007 a little… as December has been a hectic month.

But I am sure you forgive me, don’t you? Stay tuned, because there are some CDs and movies that I am just gushing over, and can’t wait to share with you. Now I see you shiver with antici….

pation.

Check back! Right now I am trying to enjoy what little “vacation” I actually got this year!

and I am telling you…

That you MUST go see Dreamgirls!!!! It was one of the best movies I have seen this year, hands down!! It is flawless from beginning to end. All of these girls are DIVAS and I was even impressed big time with Beyonce! Of course, the shining star of the whole film is Jennifer Hudson, who completely steals the show every time she is on the screen, and her showstopper, “And I Am Telling You I’m Not Going”, is chill inducing. I still can’t get over how fantastic this movie really is, seriously. I am definitely going to pick up the soundtrack too, because I loved every song I heard in the film.

If you love musicals, and you want to see a fantastic one, do yourself a favor, then and RUN to the theaters… Dreamgirls will not disappoint you. I honestly wasn’t that excited about it, not as much as I thought I would be going in, but I was so overly impressed, that it totally made up for it. This is definitely a contender for awards… not because it speaks to critics, but because it is so damn good!!! A must see!!! And Jennifer Hudson, honey, you have got everything it takes… you have solidified yourself as a tried and true diva! Work it girl!

[note that the image isn’t mine… I found it on google images, ya’ll]

do you think he has been drugged?

That is the only thing that I can think of that would lead Bush to be open minded, and actually LISTEN to a plan about the war that doesn’t focus on “staying the course”, and pumping more and more resources and troops into Iraq. If he is on drugs, I hope he stays on them for at least two more years, so we can get our troops home, and hopefully solve this situation we are currently mucking up half a world away. My only fear, is that listening is not a guarantee that he will actually hear what is being said; let’s hope that my fear doesn’t become reality. Perhaps Bush is beginning to realize that very few people are backing him in his warmongering efforts, and finally grew a conscious!? Who knows… I guess we will see, won’t we? (source)

UPDATE: Looks like he isn’t listening. Stay the course, moron, stay the course. Fucker.

Other than that news, there isn’t much going on for me right now. Going into another weekend, I am just excited about spending time doing things with friends, rather than sitting at work. Man, I cherish my weekends. Don’t we all, though? I just wish I could have an actual vacation, and not have to use it for sick time and going to see family. One of these days, I will spend some time on a sandy beach sipping some kind of fruity drink. On second thought, scratch that, I don’t do sand, and too many fruity drinks can make you feel quite ill; trust me, that is based on experience. I would just settle for a week of uninhibited fun… anywhere. Hopefully some day…

Now, I will quit rambling, and hope that you all have a great weekend. I took some of the advice provided in the previous post’s comments, and hopefully that will solve some of my problems. I may try out WP, but not right this minute. I am also thinking of switching webhosts, so if you have referral codes or shit like that, let me know.

Also, does anyone still watch ANTM? Caridee is the best!! I am so glad she won!!!! YAY! Alright, I’m outta here!

why I bought a wii; and why you should too

First of all, if you still don’t know what the wii is, it is the new game console by Nintendo. Now that we have that out of the way, I will start with why I bought a wii. When I hear that game consoles are coming out, I usually keep the practice of waiting 6 months to a year, in order to get a better deal, because all consoles invariably lower in price over time. But, when I heard about the wii, and it’s innovative motion sensor technology that is used to control the game, I was intrigued. Then, the you tube videos started pouring in of people enjoying the wii, and I was hooked; I had to see this for myself.

As the weeks got closer to the release, the more and more I reada, the more I decided it was a must have. Just seeing the tennis demo was pretty much enough, but there was so much evidence of its awesomeness, I had to get one. So, I waited overnight in a target parking lot to snag one of these hot consoles, and speaking from a little more than two days after securing the system, it was TOTALLY worth every second spent shivering under that parking deck.

The wii uses one of the funkiest types of controllers I have ever tried to comprehend, and while it does take a lot of getting used to for the more advanced games, anyone familiar with older consoles like the PS2 or the Gamecube would have no problem adapting accordingly, and should be enjoying the system and it’s innovation soon after their first or second attempts. What’s totally awesome, though, is that the wii comes with a game called “wii sports”, and while I usually have to resist simply throwing away sports games due to the high level of boredom that I find in them, this is probably one of the coolest games I have ever played; if for no other reason than because of the interaction between the player and the system. See, if you are playing tennis, you are PLAYING tennis. I played tennis for about 2 hours on Sunday, and even played with friends, and it is so addictive and entertaining. I don’t even really like tennis that much. I even said at one point, “man, I have never broken a sweat playing a video game before”. I was so into the game, in fact, that my arm is still a bit sore today. But that won’t stop me from a rousing game of tennis when I get home. (Or golf, or baseball, or bowling, or boxing… wii sports has all of them! I can’t wait for wii sports 2!)

Overall, I know that there are tons of people that couldn’t care less about the wii, but I am far from one of them. The wii is awesome, and I can’t wait to see what things are going to come out for this tricked out toy. I also fully believe that the wii is far superior to the PS3, simply because the PS3 is just more of the same; better graphics, sony-centric uber-expensive “elitist” software and hardware, and yadda yadda… but the innovation with Nintendo, and their focus on making games fun and enjoyable for everyone… not just hardcore gamers, is a big win in their column. They might just be the final winners in this on going console war.

Laugh at me if you want for waiting in line, and obsessing over my wii, but deep down, you know that I am cool, and you want to have one so you can be cool like me. Playing wii with my friends this weekend was one of the funnest dinner gettogethers we’ve ever had. Now, go buy yourself a wii-mote, and you can come over to my house for some doubles tennis, okay? You know you want to.

heroes is the show to watch and sex with yourself IS gay

Um, I have to say that I was apprehensive when the show Heroes came on last night, as it was (is) THE show I was looking most forward to this season. Going in, it was a bit all over the place, but all in all, the story is coming together, and it is definitely promising. I like how they have given you a taste of many different characters, while showing the potential for them to be tied together. I love the premise, and can’t wait to see the next episode. My only fear, gasp, is that because now I am hooked on a great show that I really genuinely like, they will probably cancel it. It has to cost a lot to produce, and you know they don’t give a shit about the viewer… it’s about money. I have written about this before. So, I am preemptively BEGGING NBC, don’t cancel this show! Not yet! And don’t pull an Invasion on us… I still can’t believe they canceled that shit. Anyway… you know where I will be next Monday night… watching Heroes!! It’s great!

Also, I wanted to say thanks for all the comments yesterday… it is nice to know that I am not the only one that thinks attraction and not action is healthy. Coolness! A couple of people discussed potential issues with it, or mentioned it wasn’t for them, and that’s fine. It’s good we all have different opinions after all! Now, I can go back to swooning over Jake Gyllenhaal and not feel bad about it!

Finally, I was thinking this morning about a conversation that I had this weekend over beers. I was talking to a couple of friends, and I don’t know how I came up, but regardless, the question was asked “if you could blow yourself, would you?”. A resounding HELL YES came from both straight guys, and I followed that with “well, that is gay sex, you know.”. Because it is. It was also discussed that if they had a clone, would they have sex with their clone. Again, the answer was yes; because it was sex with themselves. I don’t see that as anything other than gay sex, because if you are having sex with someone of the same sex, even if it is yourself, that is gay sex, yo. What do you all think? Is it really gay sex, or just fanciful pleasure giving? It is definitely both, but I am trying to see if you think it is gay sex too, I guess. Discuss!

Also, on a personal note, I finally updated my ipod for the first time in 6 months last night… perhaps this is a good step towards climbing out of this depression valley. YAY!

gays in the military really are a danger due to their homosexual distractions… you’re right!

I usually don’t (see never before) post you tube clips, but this one literally made me laugh till I cried a little. I need to start watching the Daily Show again. It just goes to show, that if you give them the forum, and the right opportunity, the religious fundamentalists and right wing nutjobs will do a fine and dandy job of hanging themselves without any help from you. That is a better message than any bad thing we could ever say about them, right? Although, for some, I know it won’t mean squat, because look at Bush, people still support him, even though the stuff he says is wrong and ludicrous a lot of the time. Shame. Oh well, here’s the clip! (found on towleroad.com)

(my favorite is “I know I would rather die in a terrorist attack than suffer through an uncomfortable shower with a gay.” LMAO! oh, and definitely, “trying to intromiss his rectum with a penis”)

Also, I posted two poems I wrote today after the jump. The Indigo Girls really bring that out in my for some reason. Either way, one is a little sad (about how I was feeling the beginning of the week), and the other isn’t (about how I am feeling now). So, that’s a little bit of both for all of ya! Also, for anyone in the area, apparently, the Indigo Girls are going to be at Criminal Records this afternoon at 6, and signing records after their performance. Anyone want to swing by there with me? I would go if someone wants to!

early predictions: the project runway/top model edition

So, as we all know, America’s. Next. Top. Model . debuted last night, and right away, I can tell that there are some fierce (and bitchy) girls in this competition. Also, since this week is fashion week, they have the designs for each of the 4 remaining Project Runway designers available online, and I know you are dying to know what I think. But I am getting ahead of myself. I would like to talk about who I think is going to win Project Runway, who is my early favorite for Top Model, and just generally a few observations about Top Model the show and the girls on it this season. After you check out what I have to say, tell me what you think, okay?!?!?!

Shall we begin? Let’s do.

First of all, here are the links for the designs from Jeffrey, Laura, Michael, and Uli. First let’s start with Jeffrey. I have to say that I am probably the most surprised by Jeffrey, because his line is actually very cohesive and actually pretty. His collection is definitely very detailed, and flows well. I think he did a great job, but I don’t know if it is enough to win. Laura. Laura, Laura, Laura. I am not at all surprised by Laura. It is boring. And, it is not for spring, in my opinion. If she were designing a fall line, MAYBE, but not this time… those designs are not spring. I will say that I hope upon hope that Laura is the one that was the fake out collection, because honestly, that is the only salvation she could offer for all of that mess she sent down the runway. On to Michael. While the boy can design some clothes, and we see some excellent designs here, I don’t feel the cohesive element in his collection. After all, this isn’t a challenge anymore, this is a collection. You have to keep it cohesive, and still at the same time provide beautiful designs and clothes. While his clothes stand alone beautifully, I don’t know if gold and brown being the elements that tie things together, are going to be enough to win this for him. And that brings me finally to Uli. While I have only mildly liked Uli all season, I have to say, her collection (in my opinion), is hands down the best. I mean, just take a look at the dress pictured here. This could be Gucci, i.e., it’s flawless. Her designs are beautiful, spring, flowing, and cohesive. If she isn’t in the top two, I will be very shocked. My guess is that she is going to win it. This is a very strong collection, and if I learned anything from season two, it isn’t about one or two dresses, it is about everything, and everything she sent down that runway was beautiful, cohesive, spring-ready, and feminine, and probably most importantly, Uli. So, she’s my pick to win.

Now, on to ANTM, after the jump. (look at these as two separate entries rolled into one. Make sure to give me your opinion on who you like/dislike, want to win/think will will, etc!)

another edition of “what’s going through my head… right now!”

— America’s Next. Top. Model. Premieres tonight. Um, yeah, I know you are biting your nails to see the girls make fools of themselves too. I wonder who will be this season’s bitch? I mean, other than Tyra of course. Thank GOD we don’t have a new Project Runway tonight; we would go into full on gay supernova if Bravo was even thinking of showing a new episode tonight. Now, let’s have a walk off, bitches, and argue over who gets photographed by world renowned photographer Gilles Bensimon.

— There are so many new shows this season, that I am literally on overload. I feel like I am missing a lot of them, so if you have any suggestions on what to catch and what to miss, I am all ears. I need something for Monday and Thursday, as of right now, because those days are pretty slim. I did watch the Unit last night, and that show fucking rocks (plus… the return of Noel Crane? Swoon!). I can’t believe I didn’t watch any of last season. Um, Netflix, can you go ahead and send those over? Thanks. Of course I am on pins and needles for Heroes, but I don’t have much else in sight. We are also watching Prison Break and House regularly now… is it me, or is House MORE of a bitch than usual this season? What a douche.

— I am really loving the new Indigo Girls CD. Especially the song “I Believe In Love”. Awesome. I also just looked and they are coming to the Tabernacle on October 5th and 6th. I am going to convince James we NEED to go. Anyone else? I love them live. We are also going to the Scissor Sisters on October 18th, so this will be the month of concerts (considering, I usually don’t ever go to concerts). There are so many good music choices coming out lately… here’s hoping that continues.

— I kind of feel behind on the internets… it is hard for me to keep my attention on anything long enough to really invest. I hate that, but can’t seem to shake it. It has a lot to do with this depression, which thankfully feels much better today that it has all week. I know that there are many of us out there that go through this same thing (many of you too), but sometimes, it just feels better to say what is wrong, what I feel, and have an ear to hear me. I appreciate that. I tell James that a lot; I don’t necessarily need a solution, I just need you to understand that I have a problem. I am working on it.

— I think that we need a mattress pad/feather bed for our bed. While we have an awesome mattress (individually wrapped springs! generous pillow top!), I can’t seem to ever get comfortable, and realized last night that at least some of my persistent back pain is coming from how I sleep (and inability to get comfortable). Anyone have experience with any one feather bed in particular? The ones I have seen seem to be around $130, but if it means a good night’s sleep, it is worth it. I wish I could purchase one of those heavenly beds from the W. God, I would never complain about sleep again if we had one of those.

— I don’t want to jinx anything, but I don’t know if you have noticed an increase in the speed and efficiency of my site. I have noticed there is much less lag time with loading, and if you post a comment, it doesn’t take a month to post it. Also, it isn’t posting double comments as much. All of this is because I asked my host to move me to a new server, just as a last ditch effort before conceding defeat and moving everything over to someone else. Turns out, it was on their end, because the difference has been like night and day. I’m keeping my fingers crossed that it is a permanent solution.

— I usually don’t get too excited about movies, because I generally hate going to the theater, but I saw a preview for the Prestige last night, and I may have to catch this one in the theater. It looks to be a kick ass movie. I can’t wait for it.

Update: I just spotted this link from yewknee, and it is extremely interesting. It talks about how Ambien (the sleeping pill), may be a potential treatment for people in a persistent vegetative state. People apparently are waking up after taking the pill. I don’t know if you saw that movie Awakenings back in the 90’s, but this whole phenomena is insane and totally exciting. To think that those people really may be there, just unable to speak in many instances, and can potentially “come back”. Obviously, this doesn’t apply to everyone in a persistent vegetative state, as many of those people are brain damaged and further incapacitated, but for some, it could mean that they are still there. Fascinating.

Alright, that’s all for right now… but maybe more later. If you’re good.

$800!???!!! why do you do this to me???

This is perhaps the cruelest twist of fate; new tivo that I MUST have, but at $800, which I WILL NOT spend. Why, tivo, why do you do this to me? You told me you would email me when the new tivo came out, but why? So you could laugh in my face when you knew I wouldn’t be able to afford it? Why did you do this to me? All of this at a time when I have literally had almost all I can take of the shitty mcshitty comcast DVR!! WHY?!?!?! I shall sit on my knees in the rain with my hands stretched to the sky, in hopes that there will be an answer.

Does anyone want to give me $800? I would put it to very good use, I promise. All I can hope for, is that the price of this sucker drops like a rock. I NEED THIS.