Archive for January, 2009

Not soon enough

Friday, January 30th, 2009

From CNN, some Illinois state workers, clowning around while changing signs:
“Was that quick enough?” one worker said to laughter.
An employee standing nearby as the picture was taken away said, “Do we need someone to throw a shoe?”
About four years too late. But I’ll take it. And keep your shoes on; just get [...]

Ads on the ‘book

Tuesday, January 27th, 2009

Three ads from Facebook: Free Govt Money, Part Time Jobs, Ties 4/$1. I do need more ties…

500

Sunday, January 25th, 2009

I recently finished teaching our graduate program’s sole required course, ENG 500, formerly “Introduction to Graduate Studies,” now “Theory and the Practice of English Studies.” Most of us remember this kind of course. Its purpose: get students into the habit of doing English studies, providing an introduction to research methodologies, common issues, and graduate-level work in [...]

Morons after McNabb

Thursday, January 22nd, 2009

Two stupid Arizona Cardinals fans thought it would be funny to hassle Eagles QB Donovan McNabb since the Cardinals and Eagles were playing in the NFC championship. They planted a flag in his yard. He was a good sport and laughed it off. So they followed that up by using diesel to burn a message [...]

Engage

Tuesday, January 20th, 2009

A million other people have written to celebrate today’s inauguration; the myriad reasons why we should be glad for the end of all things Bush and welcome the start of all things Obama. I’m most happy about our new president’s engagement. His lack of a ranch in Texas. Writing and reading books. His Blackberry and [...]

Sunday night in Illinois

Sunday, January 11th, 2009

Sunday night. My girls are in Florida. I’m in a cold house. Since they’ve been gone I’ve set the thermostat low and learned to type wearing liner gloves. Set about working, running, reading, writing. The cats are huddling on a heat pad I’ve set out for them. Friday we’ll celebrate. Until then, we work.

On the road 2009

Sunday, January 4th, 2009

Exercise goals for 2008: run, bike, and swim once a week.