So, here I am - on the griddle. The always ebullient Bojack said last class he was going to go to someone else. Called the guy by name, and told him he was up for this class, and here he's called on me. He skipped me two classes ago, and now here I am. So, it's a little disconcerting, so I'm commenting on the feeling as I'm in the middle of it.
My chest is a little tight, and I'm remarkably aware of the restricted airflow through my sinuses, and a sort of tightness across the front of my nose.
Bojack is actually quite merciful. Tension in my shoulders as I'm leaning forward. First part of the problem is done, and here we go on to second part - getting harder. Some relief - looks like he's not asking any more questions on this section. My tension is easing a little more. Tightness has moved from the front of my nose to my head... and now it's back on the front of my nose. Still breathing. My knees are a little sore - I stretch my legs out in front of me. It's roomy.
Poor A and B are getting screwed on this deal. Poor partners stuck in a guaranteed payment situation with a capital improvement. Poor, poor partners.
Last part of the problem now... but from where I'm sitting, it doesn't look like it's functionally any different than the first part. I've said it's the revenue ruling idea. But I can't really clearly explain the revenue ruling. Working while he explains...
And I figured it out just before he explained it. There is a functional difference, based on how much we're paying to make up the difference on the fixed amount, but at least he explained it for me. Phew! Time for a quick sip of water.
Well, now the adrenaline high is gone, and I'm tired.
Okay, and that's when he comes back to me - so I'm back on the griddle. It's not a sale. It's an exchange. More relaxed now. I'm a talking head. But I drank too much water, and I'm starting to feel a different type of pressure. Ah, what I wouldn't do for a hot tub right now! ;-) As much as this stuff confuses me, I'm really enjoying this class.
Wednesday
Rats!
So, the US News Law School rankings are out, and after some combing, I found Lewis and Clark - #70. Take that, other Oregon Schools!
Okay, permit me a little school spirit if I say I think that's a little low. Still, I guess to be ranked is an honor (the judges were biased), and we should be gracious (bribes must have been made on the part of some schools) and co-operative about creating an environment (I think my school kicks your school's butt) in which we can work together (panty-waist schools) to pursue an honorable and professional (Pbbbbbbbtp!) law career.
Anyway, at least we're ranked, right?
Okay, permit me a little school spirit if I say I think that's a little low. Still, I guess to be ranked is an honor (the judges were biased), and we should be gracious (bribes must have been made on the part of some schools) and co-operative about creating an environment (I think my school kicks your school's butt) in which we can work together (panty-waist schools) to pursue an honorable and professional (Pbbbbbbbtp!) law career.
Anyway, at least we're ranked, right?
A few quick words...
I suppose I do need to say something about the paper. Yes, it was done and in on time. No, I'm not 100% satisfied with it. Here's the quick and dirty.
16 doublespaced pages (first draft) arguing that DMCA is chilling encryption research (no big shock to anyone following DMCA news). Specific examples on how DMCA is chilling encryption research included the obvious - Ed Felten, Sklyarov and its effect on techies, DirecTV's current wave of litigation re: smart card programmers. I also threw in one encrypted paragraph (A trick I saw in another really good article by Brian Bolinger), and an argument that we can meet the WIPO demands by just making encryption circumvention a factor in determining the amount of damages assessed in copyright infringement cases. Let's say you infringe someone's copyright by making copies of their music and selling them.
If that's Celine Dion, and you defeated cd copy protection to do what you're doing, we'll throw the book at you harder than if you were doing, say, a ten year old Queen cd. Note: in neither case would just putting the songs on your own computer and NOT SHARING THEM be a violation in and of itself, or to the extent that it was a violation, it should be allowed anyway via fair-use doctrines.
Anyway, just in case anyone's really interested. And I know you all are! ^.^''
16 doublespaced pages (first draft) arguing that DMCA is chilling encryption research (no big shock to anyone following DMCA news). Specific examples on how DMCA is chilling encryption research included the obvious - Ed Felten, Sklyarov and its effect on techies, DirecTV's current wave of litigation re: smart card programmers. I also threw in one encrypted paragraph (A trick I saw in another really good article by Brian Bolinger), and an argument that we can meet the WIPO demands by just making encryption circumvention a factor in determining the amount of damages assessed in copyright infringement cases. Let's say you infringe someone's copyright by making copies of their music and selling them.
If that's Celine Dion, and you defeated cd copy protection to do what you're doing, we'll throw the book at you harder than if you were doing, say, a ten year old Queen cd. Note: in neither case would just putting the songs on your own computer and NOT SHARING THEM be a violation in and of itself, or to the extent that it was a violation, it should be allowed anyway via fair-use doctrines.
Anyway, just in case anyone's really interested. And I know you all are! ^.^''
Ooga Booga
So, I was looking at Lexis' Ultimate Rewards stuff today, and realized that I'm about 20 points away from being able to use Lexis points to get the NWN expansion pack, "Hordes of the Underdark". (For those of you keeping score, that means I have about 2,125 points, but who's counting?) Epic levels, visible cloaks and robes. Aw yeah. And since taking the tournament off my laptop, I've got room for it here. (The tournament is a 5 gig install, after all).
Can law school help supplement my gaming addiction? Can I be a good, productive student, and use it to get another 'hit'? Maybe. At least, this way Reeta will be happier with it. She despairs over the amount of money I spend on games. That reminds me, I've got to get some rebate forms in the mail...
Can law school help supplement my gaming addiction? Can I be a good, productive student, and use it to get another 'hit'? Maybe. At least, this way Reeta will be happier with it. She despairs over the amount of money I spend on games. That reminds me, I've got to get some rebate forms in the mail...
Tuesday
Return of the Maniac!
Woot! Reeta and I exercised again tonight. Then Claire, Reeta, and I all got in the hot tub. A wonderful time was had by all. At least, until Corbin peed in the hot tub. And told us about it.
After a hasty exit, I'm ready for a shower.
After a hasty exit, I'm ready for a shower.
Nice to see you?
Well, everyone got home all right late last night. Today, I came home after a busy, busy day working on my paper. The rough draft is in! Hooray! And now I find out that the kids are driving me nuts! Hooray?!?
I don't know why, but Corbin is particularly driving me nuts. He's gone back to calling me "Zacky Packy". So he's been re-named "Corborella".
For some reason, he wants to be Claire's brother. So he told the missionaries when they came over tonight that Reeta was his mom, and Carol was his grandma. I told Corbin that would make me his dad, and that just wasn't happening. Honestly, it really bothers me that he doesn't want to be Claire's uncle, and it bothers me even more that he would claim that Carol wasn't his mother. I mean, that would have absolutely KILLED my Mother if I had tried a stunt like that. And I'm really proud of my family - always have been. I just don't understand why someone wouldn't claim their family.
Anyway, in other news, I'm tired. Must get good sleep tonight!
I don't know why, but Corbin is particularly driving me nuts. He's gone back to calling me "Zacky Packy". So he's been re-named "Corborella".
For some reason, he wants to be Claire's brother. So he told the missionaries when they came over tonight that Reeta was his mom, and Carol was his grandma. I told Corbin that would make me his dad, and that just wasn't happening. Honestly, it really bothers me that he doesn't want to be Claire's uncle, and it bothers me even more that he would claim that Carol wasn't his mother. I mean, that would have absolutely KILLED my Mother if I had tried a stunt like that. And I'm really proud of my family - always have been. I just don't understand why someone wouldn't claim their family.
Anyway, in other news, I'm tired. Must get good sleep tonight!
Monday
Back in the Saddle
Not enough sleep last night - a paper to do by 6:00 PM tomorrow. I'm actually feeling a little like Jake Blues in the Blues Brothers as he's inventorying everything they've got as they prepare to race the cops to Chicago and the Cook County Tax Assessor's office. I've got a half a 2-liter of Mountain Dew (that nectar of the gods!), a full bottle of water, an Odwalla Bar, a lot of reading, I'm wearing sunglasses, and it's night outside.
Okay, I'm not really wearing sunglasses, and it's not really night, and I'm not really sitting in a decommissioned cop car. Although to be really honest, I kind of wish I was.
In the immortal words of Beck: "Ya-ya-ii!"
Okay, I'm not really wearing sunglasses, and it's not really night, and I'm not really sitting in a decommissioned cop car. Although to be really honest, I kind of wish I was.
In the immortal words of Beck: "Ya-ya-ii!"
Sadness and Frustration
Don't you hate it when you have a favorite character - and the author kills him or her off? Ugh. Just happened in Full Metal Alchemist.
This guy had a lot in common with me - he even kinda looks like me, and I think that's one of the reasons I liked the character, and one of the reasons his death strikes so close to home. (Wow, two phobias in one day - heights and death. This is shaping up to be a great week, yessiree) He's maybe just a little too proud of his wife and child (sound familiar?), trying to help others and do the right thing, and he got killed because of it. And seeing his little girl crying as they buried him... it's not my character, but if I was the author, I'd have found a way to make sure that Maes Hughes survived.
This guy had a lot in common with me - he even kinda looks like me, and I think that's one of the reasons I liked the character, and one of the reasons his death strikes so close to home. (Wow, two phobias in one day - heights and death. This is shaping up to be a great week, yessiree) He's maybe just a little too proud of his wife and child (sound familiar?), trying to help others and do the right thing, and he got killed because of it. And seeing his little girl crying as they buried him... it's not my character, but if I was the author, I'd have found a way to make sure that Maes Hughes survived.
Sunday
What happened there?
So, I saw the Practice tonight - it's probably the only tv series I get to watch with anything approaching regularity because a) I don't have anything else going on Sunday nights at about 10 - 11 PM local time, and b) if I miss it, I won't be able to participate in the conversations at lunch the next day.
Besides, Alan Shore is strangely compelling to watch. He's absolutely unethical, slimy, a pervert, etc., etc., etc. But you really can't take your eyes off him.
Having said that, I missed whatever it was he said at the end of the episode about not wanting the money, and how much he liked working there. There was a lot more of it than that, but I didn't catch it - (catching up on all those great blogs out there - I've got to cut down the number I read for the next six weeks - finals are fast approaching).
In other news, I finished The Code Book today, and I found some parts that will work nicely in my paper. Which is due Tuesday 6:00PM.
The family is in Utah - I'm here all by my lonesome tonight - but they'll be back tomorrow. In the meantime, here's an adorable picture of my little girl!
Besides, Alan Shore is strangely compelling to watch. He's absolutely unethical, slimy, a pervert, etc., etc., etc. But you really can't take your eyes off him.
Having said that, I missed whatever it was he said at the end of the episode about not wanting the money, and how much he liked working there. There was a lot more of it than that, but I didn't catch it - (catching up on all those great blogs out there - I've got to cut down the number I read for the next six weeks - finals are fast approaching).
In other news, I finished The Code Book today, and I found some parts that will work nicely in my paper. Which is due Tuesday 6:00PM.
The family is in Utah - I'm here all by my lonesome tonight - but they'll be back tomorrow. In the meantime, here's an adorable picture of my little girl!
Home again, Home again
Man, I hate flying. It's not the security, it's not the herding, the crowded seats, it's not the cramped feeling of having someone right next to you.
It's the heights.
I hate heights.
Even tall buildings freak me out. Last year, when I volunteered at the Federal Courthouse, that freaked me out.
Ever since I was a little kid, when I saw cartoons of someone flying in a plane, and the floor dropping out from underneath him, I decided two things.
First, that was pretty funny.
Second, that was never ever going to happen to me. Even now, I get a little shudder. But I got here safe and sound, (thanks to Yin and Yang for a ride to my place) looking forward to getting into the swing of law school again for the final four weeks before finals.
Yee-haw!
It's the heights.
I hate heights.
Even tall buildings freak me out. Last year, when I volunteered at the Federal Courthouse, that freaked me out.
Ever since I was a little kid, when I saw cartoons of someone flying in a plane, and the floor dropping out from underneath him, I decided two things.
First, that was pretty funny.
Second, that was never ever going to happen to me. Even now, I get a little shudder. But I got here safe and sound, (thanks to Yin and Yang for a ride to my place) looking forward to getting into the swing of law school again for the final four weeks before finals.
Yee-haw!
Saturday
Boys with Toys
I haven't been blogging much on this trip. I think it's a matter of comfort - the place where my laptop is set up just isn't very comfortable. So, while I have to sit there for research, I don't like sitting there to blog.
Last night, Big Sam and Sambo (Sambo is baby Nicholas' dad, and Big Sam is Sambo's dad) came to grab me, and they took me to dinner and a movie. Major thanks to Big Sam for kidnapping me for a guy's night out. He reminds me a lot of my dad, and it was nice to have someone around who was more conservative than I was, but with a sense of humor.
Anyway, we saw Hidalgo at the Jordan Commons - easily the best theater that Reeta and I have ever been at. Larry H. Miller (who owns the Jazz, and a ton of car dealerships here in Salt Lake), built this a few years ago as a pet project - it used to be a local high school - Jordan High. It was old, abandoned, condemned, really. And Larry bought it, tore it down, and built a great theater - keeping the old architectural facade of the original high school. This is where I found Dance Dance Revolution for the first time. This is where Reeta and I went to see Raiders of the Lost Ark as a date night - and brought crabs from Joe's Crab Shack next door into the theater with us. This is where I went to see LOTR:TTT, and got to watch the Warg battle on a giant bean bag chair about fifteen feet from the screen. According to Big Sam, he was talking with the person who did the sound for the theater - and he claimed it was the best in the country as far as sound when it was built. It's one of my favorite places.
And Hidalgo was really good.
Reeta has been doing great - she cut her hair, and has had a good time with the family. I got to see my baby brudder a couple of times, and his fiancee. That wedding is in a month. The weekend before finals.
^.^'' And I've got to be there. But it's going to be study study study in the car there and back.
Downloaded what seems to be a really great media player for my laptop last night - I've been using Crystal as my media player of choice, and it runs anime episodes smoother than anything else I've seen so far, but it doesn't play DVD's, and my DVD software tends to be choppy. Enter VideoLAN. It runs my anime eps AND my DVD's without a lot of hesitation or clipping. The hotkeys are taking a little getting used to, but other than that, it's been a good switch.
Last night, Big Sam and Sambo (Sambo is baby Nicholas' dad, and Big Sam is Sambo's dad) came to grab me, and they took me to dinner and a movie. Major thanks to Big Sam for kidnapping me for a guy's night out. He reminds me a lot of my dad, and it was nice to have someone around who was more conservative than I was, but with a sense of humor.
Anyway, we saw Hidalgo at the Jordan Commons - easily the best theater that Reeta and I have ever been at. Larry H. Miller (who owns the Jazz, and a ton of car dealerships here in Salt Lake), built this a few years ago as a pet project - it used to be a local high school - Jordan High. It was old, abandoned, condemned, really. And Larry bought it, tore it down, and built a great theater - keeping the old architectural facade of the original high school. This is where I found Dance Dance Revolution for the first time. This is where Reeta and I went to see Raiders of the Lost Ark as a date night - and brought crabs from Joe's Crab Shack next door into the theater with us. This is where I went to see LOTR:TTT, and got to watch the Warg battle on a giant bean bag chair about fifteen feet from the screen. According to Big Sam, he was talking with the person who did the sound for the theater - and he claimed it was the best in the country as far as sound when it was built. It's one of my favorite places.
And Hidalgo was really good.
Reeta has been doing great - she cut her hair, and has had a good time with the family. I got to see my baby brudder a couple of times, and his fiancee. That wedding is in a month. The weekend before finals.
^.^'' And I've got to be there. But it's going to be study study study in the car there and back.
Downloaded what seems to be a really great media player for my laptop last night - I've been using Crystal as my media player of choice, and it runs anime episodes smoother than anything else I've seen so far, but it doesn't play DVD's, and my DVD software tends to be choppy. Enter VideoLAN. It runs my anime eps AND my DVD's without a lot of hesitation or clipping. The hotkeys are taking a little getting used to, but other than that, it's been a good switch.
Wednesday
Everything Old is New Again...
Man, I really need to get some work done on this paper. I've been reading "The Code Book", which is reinforcing my belief that encryption research is a vital thing, but it's not covering the law, just the actual encryption stuff.
In other news, here's a picture of the latest addition to the clan - Claire's new cousin Nicholas.
Here he is in his farmer outfit.
And here he is with cousin Claire.
In other news, here's a picture of the latest addition to the clan - Claire's new cousin Nicholas.
Here he is in his farmer outfit.
And here he is with cousin Claire.
Monday
Stranger in a Strange Land
So, I'm in Utah again - in the law library on BYU's campus. And it looks like these guys have again defeated Lewis and Clark in IP moot court. We've done well the last two years, making regionals both times, but then we lost both years to BYU. (sigh). I'm wearing my BYU t-shirt, my laptop, and am plugged into their network through a cable. But I'm thinking I'll head upstairs to see if I can get access to their wireless network. I wonder if they'll give that to me. I've got a goatee - that's a no-no for BYU students, and I'm halfway expecting someone to mention something to me about it.
I'm sort of itching for a fight, I guess. It's been a while since I was able to exercise the "Dark Side of the Force" - a thing we've always called "The McEwen" - for my mother's side of the family. They're all very quick with the wits and the tongue, and it's strange how they all have their own personal style. My uncle Jerry is quick and witty and very sharp, but it's more to be funny than anything else. My Mom is quick and witty and very sharp, but it's a little more sarcastic, and can fillet an idiot six ways 'til Sunday. And back in the day, I was a lot more biting, myself. Someone would piss me off, and it was like a black cloud descended around me, and I would let fly with something absolutely devastating.
When Reeta and I were first dating, I tried to explain it to her, and she challenged me on it. She actually dared me to say something sarcastic and biting to her, not understanding the power of the McEwen. I tried and tried to get out of it, but she insisted so, I let fly. I don't remember what I said, and neither does Reeta, but she almost broke into tears. I felt like I had just stomped on a cute little bunny rabbit. Hard. Poor Reeta! But she married me anyway, and I've worked hard to channel that underlying dark side for the forces of good, rather than evil. But every now and then I worry that perhaps I've lost that part of myself. Which would be really sad, for me. I feel like it's kind of my heritage.
In other news, Reeta's Grandfather's Sister's husband passed away last night. Our thoughts go out to Yvonne, and we hope she's doing well. Reeta's grandparents are actually flying out to Utah today to see the family, and had planned originally on staying for a week or so. But now it looks like they'll fly back tomorrow or Wednesday for the funeral. Well, we're glad we'll see them as long as we will. And Beth is flying in today with her new Baby, Nicolas Ryan. So that'll be fun, too. We're looking forward to it.
Now, I have a paper to write...
I'm sort of itching for a fight, I guess. It's been a while since I was able to exercise the "Dark Side of the Force" - a thing we've always called "The McEwen" - for my mother's side of the family. They're all very quick with the wits and the tongue, and it's strange how they all have their own personal style. My uncle Jerry is quick and witty and very sharp, but it's more to be funny than anything else. My Mom is quick and witty and very sharp, but it's a little more sarcastic, and can fillet an idiot six ways 'til Sunday. And back in the day, I was a lot more biting, myself. Someone would piss me off, and it was like a black cloud descended around me, and I would let fly with something absolutely devastating.
When Reeta and I were first dating, I tried to explain it to her, and she challenged me on it. She actually dared me to say something sarcastic and biting to her, not understanding the power of the McEwen. I tried and tried to get out of it, but she insisted so, I let fly. I don't remember what I said, and neither does Reeta, but she almost broke into tears. I felt like I had just stomped on a cute little bunny rabbit. Hard. Poor Reeta! But she married me anyway, and I've worked hard to channel that underlying dark side for the forces of good, rather than evil. But every now and then I worry that perhaps I've lost that part of myself. Which would be really sad, for me. I feel like it's kind of my heritage.
In other news, Reeta's Grandfather's Sister's husband passed away last night. Our thoughts go out to Yvonne, and we hope she's doing well. Reeta's grandparents are actually flying out to Utah today to see the family, and had planned originally on staying for a week or so. But now it looks like they'll fly back tomorrow or Wednesday for the funeral. Well, we're glad we'll see them as long as we will. And Beth is flying in today with her new Baby, Nicolas Ryan. So that'll be fun, too. We're looking forward to it.
Now, I have a paper to write...
Sunday
Safety Patrol
We had an - interesting drive down. Left Portland about 12:20 (later than I wanted, but earlier than I was afraid it was going to be). But we didn't get to Lehi until about 2:45 AM. It seems that when the number of people travelling goes up (more particularly, the number of children), the number of stops increases also. I'm not sure how the correlation function works out, but it's definitely there.
So, today I'll be trying to get the local hi-speed connection working with my laptop, and otherwise relaxing and recovering from the drive, and tomorrow it's off to BYU, the registrar's office (to finally get my transcript sent to law school-heh), and the law library to write my paper. Oh yeah...
So, today I'll be trying to get the local hi-speed connection working with my laptop, and otherwise relaxing and recovering from the drive, and tomorrow it's off to BYU, the registrar's office (to finally get my transcript sent to law school-heh), and the law library to write my paper. Oh yeah...
Friday
Some Japanese stuff is so freaking cool...
This is one of the coolest things I've seen in a long time - it looks like a live-action version of an old anime called Casshan, Robot Hunter. Not the greatest anime ever, but the karate chop (you'll know when you see it, believe me) is something that looks like it's straight out of Casshan. Heck, the titles, the costumes - all similar. Looks like something to add to that great DVD wish list when it comes out...
UPDATE: Looks like I'll have to check out Apple's Japanese Movie Trailer site more often - there's some exciting stuff in here for us anime fans - like DevilMan and Appleseed. Woot!
UPDATE: I totally forgot to thank Penny Arcade for the link.
UPDATE: Looks like I'll have to check out Apple's Japanese Movie Trailer site more often - there's some exciting stuff in here for us anime fans - like DevilMan and Appleseed. Woot!
UPDATE: I totally forgot to thank Penny Arcade for the link.
Blogging + sun = ?
I should have brought my camera - it's a gorgeous day outside. And the school's happy wireless network is allowing me to post to all those faithful readers out there. Off to Utah for a week for spring break. I've got my headphones, some cd's, I'm set. This will be a working vacation for me - I'll hopefully be spending a lot of time at BYU's law library, writing my A paper, and outlining my classes. Fun, fun, fun!
It'll be a long drive tomorrow - hopefully I'll be able to use that time reading for after break.
I'm looking forward to the trip - I've been missing some of my favorite eateries in Provo. It's surprising (though maybe it shouldn't be, with all the returned missionaries in Provo), but there is all kinds of really good, relatively inexpensive eating potential down there - I'm hoping to hit the Sampaguita Garden, in particular (Filipino food), and maybe Demae (Japanese food - mmmmm - sukiyaki). And hopefully my in-laws internet connection will work this trip, and I'll be able to use my laptop for a little online UT2K4 (after I pick up a headset with my Convergys money). Fun on a bun!
It'll be a long drive tomorrow - hopefully I'll be able to use that time reading for after break.
I'm looking forward to the trip - I've been missing some of my favorite eateries in Provo. It's surprising (though maybe it shouldn't be, with all the returned missionaries in Provo), but there is all kinds of really good, relatively inexpensive eating potential down there - I'm hoping to hit the Sampaguita Garden, in particular (Filipino food), and maybe Demae (Japanese food - mmmmm - sukiyaki). And hopefully my in-laws internet connection will work this trip, and I'll be able to use my laptop for a little online UT2K4 (after I pick up a headset with my Convergys money). Fun on a bun!
Poetry...
Serves many purposes. For example, I just wrote a quick hopefully funny poem about duck-eating. Those of you who have been reading "Letters of Marque" (scm, I'm looking at you), know that Heidi is not fond of eaters of ducks. To tell the truth, I really just wrote it as a funny poem. It's been a while since I wrote my magnum opus "Over the Hill", for a friend of my Mother on her 40th birthday.
Here's the link to Heidi's pro-duck poem.
Here's my response...
Ducks are silly on the screen,
Feathers black or white or green,
Ducks may make some feel wispy
I like Ducks when they are crispy
Wings and breasts and legs and thighs
I take a bite, and then I sigh.
For Ducky soup is oh-so-yummy
When it's headed for my tummy
Duck l'orange and under glass
Please don't think that I'm an (incredibly insensitive person)
If I think duck is at its best
When it is broiled, fried, or pressed.
Oh, I don't hunt I have no gun
I don't think it would be much fun.
With others hunting does agree-a
Even with Anton Scalia
So let him hunt, and let him shoot.
Scalia says the point is moot.
And some would say he is quite brainy
(even though he's friends with Cheney)
(END)
I'd highly recommend Letters of Marque as a great read.
Here's the link to Heidi's pro-duck poem.
Here's my response...
Ducks are silly on the screen,
Feathers black or white or green,
Ducks may make some feel wispy
I like Ducks when they are crispy
Wings and breasts and legs and thighs
I take a bite, and then I sigh.
For Ducky soup is oh-so-yummy
When it's headed for my tummy
Duck l'orange and under glass
Please don't think that I'm an (incredibly insensitive person)
If I think duck is at its best
When it is broiled, fried, or pressed.
Oh, I don't hunt I have no gun
I don't think it would be much fun.
With others hunting does agree-a
Even with Anton Scalia
So let him hunt, and let him shoot.
Scalia says the point is moot.
And some would say he is quite brainy
(even though he's friends with Cheney)
(END)
I'd highly recommend Letters of Marque as a great read.
Thursday
Pray that they get it right...
Or the Hollywood execs involved will feel the fury of my cold, hard steel!
Barsoom lives. Let's hope that they take the gloves off, and really go for it. After all, Barsoom ain't supposed to be Disneyland. I'm hoping for lots and lots of swordfighting and derring-do, beautiful princesses, strange alien creatures, and the mighty Tars Tarkas. Much thanks to Geekman.com for the link.
Speaking of cheesy pulp fiction and sci-fi/fantasy, it looks like I'm not going to be able to watch "Sinbad's Golden Voyage" until I get home from Utah.
Accursed Netflix shipping delays!
In other news, I have found the source of all evil.
Marshmallow peeps.
Barsoom lives. Let's hope that they take the gloves off, and really go for it. After all, Barsoom ain't supposed to be Disneyland. I'm hoping for lots and lots of swordfighting and derring-do, beautiful princesses, strange alien creatures, and the mighty Tars Tarkas. Much thanks to Geekman.com for the link.
Speaking of cheesy pulp fiction and sci-fi/fantasy, it looks like I'm not going to be able to watch "Sinbad's Golden Voyage" until I get home from Utah.
Accursed Netflix shipping delays!
In other news, I have found the source of all evil.
Marshmallow peeps.
Homeward Bound...
Although I'm not really sure where to call home any more. I grew up in Rexburg, but I don't know anyone there anymore - left town almost 14 years ago, and haven't really looked back. Lived in the Phillippines for two years, and that was awesome, but over ten years ago... Lived in Utah after that for about ten years, but I was never really close with anyone there except for some old college buddies. I guess home is where Reeta and Claire are. And for now, that's Portland.
Speaking of home, I'm wondering if anyone I know is flying in to Portland on Sunday the 28th. I'm returning from Utah on that day, and don't have a way back from the airport yet short of the bus (which gets me within three blocks or so, but takes a couple of hours to do it - hello, GameBoy, maybe that'll be my chance to finally complete my Pokedex - 8 Pokemon left).
My prior employer sent me a check for payroll I'd never actually cashed. $60.00 isn't much, but it's nice to have a little extra cash in your pocket before setting out on a trip.
Speaking of home, I'm wondering if anyone I know is flying in to Portland on Sunday the 28th. I'm returning from Utah on that day, and don't have a way back from the airport yet short of the bus (which gets me within three blocks or so, but takes a couple of hours to do it - hello, GameBoy, maybe that'll be my chance to finally complete my Pokedex - 8 Pokemon left).
My prior employer sent me a check for payroll I'd never actually cashed. $60.00 isn't much, but it's nice to have a little extra cash in your pocket before setting out on a trip.
Wednesday
Okay - where's the griddle?
Looks like the Great Bogdanski (who is really a cool guy) thought this stuff was way too easy to waste a Socratic Method round on it. He's got a bullet with my name on it, but he's saving it, oh yeah, saving it for something that'll really scramble the ol' eggs. I think I'll decide to look forward to it. The allocation stuff turned out to be really easy. (And the answer is - loss incurred, or COSTS paid, so in the problems, it's when the loss was incurred).
With that reality facing me in the eyes, I think I'll talk a little more about UT2K4.
Turns out it's actually 5.5 gigs of gibby goodness. And at $39.99, a heck of a deal. So far, I've played a little CTF, a little Deathmatch...
And a whole lot of Onslaught. Wow! I need a voice headset, so I can give voice commands to my happy bots. Or go online and actually be able to co-ordinate. But a headset is $25-30 bucks. Maybe later. Basically, Onslaught is a game of connect-the-dots, where you have to draw a line from your base to the enemy's base. You can only attack dots that you have a direct connection to - no rushing the enemy base, because an IMPENETRABLE FORCEFIELD keeps you from damaging it at all. Fun, fun, fun. And what makes it even better is the addition of vehicles. I love being able to drive a tank in a game where people are running on the ground. He, he, he... And not only do you get to drive the tank, and shoot the big gun, someone ELSE can hop in the tank, and shoot the machine gun turret. There's one vehicle that the driver doesn't have any guns, but there are turrets that a bunch of people can jump in on. And another big bear with something like four turrets, and guns for the driver.
I also played one game of Assault - the objective-based game. Woof. Assault is hard. This is where you need to get a voice headset, so you can co-ordinate your attacks on various objectives. And my understanding is, the bots will respond to voice commands. "Alpha, cover me" and one of your bots drops what he's doing, and trots over.
Too cool.
With that reality facing me in the eyes, I think I'll talk a little more about UT2K4.
Turns out it's actually 5.5 gigs of gibby goodness. And at $39.99, a heck of a deal. So far, I've played a little CTF, a little Deathmatch...
And a whole lot of Onslaught. Wow! I need a voice headset, so I can give voice commands to my happy bots. Or go online and actually be able to co-ordinate. But a headset is $25-30 bucks. Maybe later. Basically, Onslaught is a game of connect-the-dots, where you have to draw a line from your base to the enemy's base. You can only attack dots that you have a direct connection to - no rushing the enemy base, because an IMPENETRABLE FORCEFIELD keeps you from damaging it at all. Fun, fun, fun. And what makes it even better is the addition of vehicles. I love being able to drive a tank in a game where people are running on the ground. He, he, he... And not only do you get to drive the tank, and shoot the big gun, someone ELSE can hop in the tank, and shoot the machine gun turret. There's one vehicle that the driver doesn't have any guns, but there are turrets that a bunch of people can jump in on. And another big bear with something like four turrets, and guns for the driver.
I also played one game of Assault - the objective-based game. Woof. Assault is hard. This is where you need to get a voice headset, so you can co-ordinate your attacks on various objectives. And my understanding is, the bots will respond to voice commands. "Alpha, cover me" and one of your bots drops what he's doing, and trots over.
Too cool.
Stay on target, stay on target!
One day into the tournament, I'm amazed by how much I've changed over the last year and a half. Time was, I'd have played for a good six hours straight - played all night, played most of the day, etc.
And while I did play last night, it was AFTER having done most of my reading for today. I got in about an hour of Onslaught play before I called it a night. Am I growing up? Is Sales Transactions REALLY that interesting? Partnership Tax? Maybe.
More likely, I'm just trying to get prepared so I don't look like a total idiot tonight when the almighty Bogdanski throws me on the grill. If a law says you can do things in one of two ways, and a hypothetical then asks you which way is right, how do you answer that? (Speaking of partnership allocations of profit and loss when the partner's position/distributive share changes through the year.) The law says you base the allocation on when the cost was incurred or when it was paid. And if those are different times, and a partner changes position in between, then what?
Not that I expect an answer, you understand. Especially not in the ten minutes before class starts.
New FMA out today. One manga chap and one anime ep. Gotta get downloading! And researching! For my paper!
And while I did play last night, it was AFTER having done most of my reading for today. I got in about an hour of Onslaught play before I called it a night. Am I growing up? Is Sales Transactions REALLY that interesting? Partnership Tax? Maybe.
More likely, I'm just trying to get prepared so I don't look like a total idiot tonight when the almighty Bogdanski throws me on the grill. If a law says you can do things in one of two ways, and a hypothetical then asks you which way is right, how do you answer that? (Speaking of partnership allocations of profit and loss when the partner's position/distributive share changes through the year.) The law says you base the allocation on when the cost was incurred or when it was paid. And if those are different times, and a partner changes position in between, then what?
Not that I expect an answer, you understand. Especially not in the ten minutes before class starts.
New FMA out today. One manga chap and one anime ep. Gotta get downloading! And researching! For my paper!
So much to do today...
class at 10:30, Intel presentation at noon, class at 1:30, work at 3:30, class at 8:00. I don't know when I'll have time for research, or to read for tomorrow, or anything. :p
Tuesday
Thanks for humoring me...
But y'all are just too darn nice. Or possibly just too busy to bother. Or possibly just not aware that there's a comment link down below each and every post. I've made some fairly unpopular (in the law school environment) assertions, and no one has called me on it but scm. In fact, it seems that the only person who has commented AT ALL lately, has been scm. (And I thank her for it).
I personally would like to see more of a conversation happening here. Granted, blogging is a good way to satisfy that creative urge. But part of what I want to happen here is a way for me to see where I'm wrong. It's no good defending your beliefs if no one challenges them. There's no way I can learn where my arguments are faulty if no one is knocking holes in them.
Or am I just always right? (Boy, is THAT a scary thought). Or is what I'm saying just not worthy of response? (probably closer to the truth).
I personally would like to see more of a conversation happening here. Granted, blogging is a good way to satisfy that creative urge. But part of what I want to happen here is a way for me to see where I'm wrong. It's no good defending your beliefs if no one challenges them. There's no way I can learn where my arguments are faulty if no one is knocking holes in them.
Or am I just always right? (Boy, is THAT a scary thought). Or is what I'm saying just not worthy of response? (probably closer to the truth).
Monday
Whoa
LILEKS (James) The Bleat
Why is it that Kerry scares the holy living bejeebers out of me? Is it the fact that he's claimed, apparently that he was endorsed by unknown foreign leaders? And since that time the they've tried to argue that MORE leaders instead of FOREIGN leaders is what they meant? And told people asking about it that it's none of their business? Thanks to the Volokh Conspiracy for those links
Maybe. Maybe it's the fact that Kerry seems to be joining the press in belittling Bush for expressing a belief in God. A belief in God does not necessarily make you a weak minded fool, nor does it disqualify you to hold executive office. Neither does a disbelief. I think I'm tired of smug people in the press, in politics, and elsewhere trying to make people who believe in God look like idiots, or intellectual lightweights. Heck, read This is True long enough, and you'll see that there are no shortage of idiots on both sides of the religious spectrum.
Anyway, I think that God was on our side in Iraq. Why?
Because if you believe in God, then you have to accept that we would have lost if God wasn't on our side.
I think even people who don't necessarily believe in God should appreciate that people who do should come to that rational conclusion, or admit that God is not omnipotent. Now, I know this opens up several rather large cans of worms. Why would God allow that regime to exist as long as it did? Why would God allow Saddam to do the things he did? Heck, why does God allow bad things to happen to good people? Why do good people get hurt, or paralyzed? Why do puppies get run over by cars? In the final analysis, we have to believe that God knows what He's doing, or reject the belief in God altogether.
It's difficult to hang on to your belief sometimes, in the face of tragedy, in the face of disaster, in the face of heartbreak, in the face of evil. We can look around us at all of the things that are going wrong in our society, at murder, at rape. I think that the popular press makes it easy for us to look at these things, shake our heads, and wonder where we've gone wrong.
What the popular press perhaps isn't very good at saying is ... while these may be the general indicia of a society gone wrong, society is people. Society is us. And what we do changes society for the better or the worse.
Why is it that Kerry scares the holy living bejeebers out of me? Is it the fact that he's claimed, apparently that he was endorsed by unknown foreign leaders? And since that time the they've tried to argue that MORE leaders instead of FOREIGN leaders is what they meant? And told people asking about it that it's none of their business? Thanks to the Volokh Conspiracy for those links
Maybe. Maybe it's the fact that Kerry seems to be joining the press in belittling Bush for expressing a belief in God. A belief in God does not necessarily make you a weak minded fool, nor does it disqualify you to hold executive office. Neither does a disbelief. I think I'm tired of smug people in the press, in politics, and elsewhere trying to make people who believe in God look like idiots, or intellectual lightweights. Heck, read This is True long enough, and you'll see that there are no shortage of idiots on both sides of the religious spectrum.
Anyway, I think that God was on our side in Iraq. Why?
Because if you believe in God, then you have to accept that we would have lost if God wasn't on our side.
I think even people who don't necessarily believe in God should appreciate that people who do should come to that rational conclusion, or admit that God is not omnipotent. Now, I know this opens up several rather large cans of worms. Why would God allow that regime to exist as long as it did? Why would God allow Saddam to do the things he did? Heck, why does God allow bad things to happen to good people? Why do good people get hurt, or paralyzed? Why do puppies get run over by cars? In the final analysis, we have to believe that God knows what He's doing, or reject the belief in God altogether.
It's difficult to hang on to your belief sometimes, in the face of tragedy, in the face of disaster, in the face of heartbreak, in the face of evil. We can look around us at all of the things that are going wrong in our society, at murder, at rape. I think that the popular press makes it easy for us to look at these things, shake our heads, and wonder where we've gone wrong.
What the popular press perhaps isn't very good at saying is ... while these may be the general indicia of a society gone wrong, society is people. Society is us. And what we do changes society for the better or the worse.
Sunday
...the plaudits of the troops and the amusement of the children.
Played the demo for UT2K4 last night. A couple of thoughts...
Holy cow, is that fun. I've never had the opportunity to drive a tank in a FPS game before. It gives you a remarkable sense of security. And I like the cars... the cars that go boom. Especially when on the receiving end of a tank shell. The vehicles are awesome.
Scalable graphics. Oh yeah. I have an older computer, and I'm glad to see that the game not only has Direct3D graphics, it also has a software mode that will let me play on my laptop. (Although I would never, never do that in any of my classes.)
Questionable values. Check out this interview where the game designer talks about what's improved in this game compared to the previous iteration (it's the last question on the page - for those who've never played this kind of game, gibbage=flying body parts or "giblets", more usually called "gibs", usually resulting from an explosive impact - rockets, tank shells, giant shotguns will all cause gibbage). Looking over the game options, there are three settings for gore. (Not quite like ordering a steak... but I'll still take mine medium, thanks). Mature taunts (every now and then, you can hear a 'bot scream that you're a promiscuous woman who engages in certain activities for money). Which can also be turned off so Claire doesn't add prematurely to her vocabulary.
What can I say? Now all I need is a voice headset, and I'll be ready to rock on Tuesday. (5 gig install... grumble, grumble...)
Holy cow, is that fun. I've never had the opportunity to drive a tank in a FPS game before. It gives you a remarkable sense of security. And I like the cars... the cars that go boom. Especially when on the receiving end of a tank shell. The vehicles are awesome.
Scalable graphics. Oh yeah. I have an older computer, and I'm glad to see that the game not only has Direct3D graphics, it also has a software mode that will let me play on my laptop. (Although I would never, never do that in any of my classes.)
Questionable values. Check out this interview where the game designer talks about what's improved in this game compared to the previous iteration (it's the last question on the page - for those who've never played this kind of game, gibbage=flying body parts or "giblets", more usually called "gibs", usually resulting from an explosive impact - rockets, tank shells, giant shotguns will all cause gibbage). Looking over the game options, there are three settings for gore. (Not quite like ordering a steak... but I'll still take mine medium, thanks). Mature taunts (every now and then, you can hear a 'bot scream that you're a promiscuous woman who engages in certain activities for money). Which can also be turned off so Claire doesn't add prematurely to her vocabulary.
What can I say? Now all I need is a voice headset, and I'll be ready to rock on Tuesday. (5 gig install... grumble, grumble...)
Saturday
You are hairy, like animal!
Reeta said that my hair looks thicker. That was really nice of her to say that. -sigh- Went to McDonalds tonight for dinner - Reeta's mom gets home tomorrow.
It's been nice this week, having the extra room.
Three more days until the tournament begins. I'm rather stoked, I must say. In fact, I loaded up UT2k3 today, and played a quick round of capture the flag wit' the bots. I'm not to worried about the graphics. What I am worried about is the reported 5 gig install. That's a lot of mp3's I have to clear off my hard drive.
It's been nice this week, having the extra room.
Three more days until the tournament begins. I'm rather stoked, I must say. In fact, I loaded up UT2k3 today, and played a quick round of capture the flag wit' the bots. I'm not to worried about the graphics. What I am worried about is the reported 5 gig install. That's a lot of mp3's I have to clear off my hard drive.
I challenge you to a duel ... with, um, Rubber Chickens!
The Volokh Conspiracy (What is the Volokh Conspiracy?) just blogged this story - apparently swords are illegal in Australia. Apparently mere possession is enough for a conviction here - even if it's just in your house.
And, unlike Rurouni Kenshin (which takes place during the Meiji era in Japan - an actual historical period during which wearing of swords was illegal in Japan) the fact that it's a reversed blade (a sakabato instead of a katana) probably wouldn't be any kind of defense.
And, unlike Rurouni Kenshin (which takes place during the Meiji era in Japan - an actual historical period during which wearing of swords was illegal in Japan) the fact that it's a reversed blade (a sakabato instead of a katana) probably wouldn't be any kind of defense.
Friday
It's a bird, It's a plane, It's...
funny how Claire keys off of different things. She's sitting there, happy as can be, watching Nick Jr. As soon as I start up Naruto on on the computer, she jumps up from the couch, races over, and starts singing the theme song.
In Japanese.
Okay, she's not really singing the actual words, but she's got the tune DOWN, and darn if she isn't dang close on the pronunciation. Kids - wierd wild stuff.
In Japanese.
Okay, she's not really singing the actual words, but she's got the tune DOWN, and darn if she isn't dang close on the pronunciation. Kids - wierd wild stuff.
Thursday
Is this the hour of my discontent?
I had a good chat with one of my professors today in which I expressed some concern over my own views on copyright. They keep changing. When I was young (we're talking around 10-12), my uncles would occasionally send me a big box of computer discs. Hacked games. I'd have eight or nine games on a disc. I played them all, and I'm sure that experience is what led me to my love for gaming that I have now.
But they were undoubtedly a violation of copyright law.
So, there's a history of piracy in my family, that happened at an age when I was young and impressionable. There's something of an attraction to that for me. I love walking around and going "arrrr". More than that, I enjoy that sense of pleasure that occurs when some company spends millions of dollars creating CD protection for music, and someone else, within days of its release, cracks it using a Sharpie pen that probably cost less than a dollar. It's fun to be the pirate. And the music industry isn't competing with free downloads in the market sense. (Value-addition is what we need!)
But at the same time, I'm getting a real sense of possible harm to something that's really near and dear to me, and that's entertainment in all its various and sundry forms, and so I find myself sometimes defending big companies on copyright issues that come up in discussions. And that really sticks in my craw.
Bah, anyway.
Today was the small firm fair. Not a lot of firms there, and for some odd reason, every one I talked to said that they were only hiring first years, where last year every one wanted second and thirds. Ugh. Also, not a lot of people (dare I say no one) was really doing anything that interested me. Shall I never find a decent job in this economy?!? Ah well. I'm signed up for the Intel presentation, and they've apparently got some clerking opportunities for the summer. And it's the next best thing to my dream: being in-house counsel to a game company like id. Not that id has in-house counsel, but SOMEBODY has to help those guys write their licensing contracts and defend against tort lawsuits. (id software were the guys who created "DOOM", and were sued after the Columbine shootings because their games allegedly goaded impressionable teenagers into becoming murderers.)
But they were undoubtedly a violation of copyright law.
So, there's a history of piracy in my family, that happened at an age when I was young and impressionable. There's something of an attraction to that for me. I love walking around and going "arrrr". More than that, I enjoy that sense of pleasure that occurs when some company spends millions of dollars creating CD protection for music, and someone else, within days of its release, cracks it using a Sharpie pen that probably cost less than a dollar. It's fun to be the pirate. And the music industry isn't competing with free downloads in the market sense. (Value-addition is what we need!)
But at the same time, I'm getting a real sense of possible harm to something that's really near and dear to me, and that's entertainment in all its various and sundry forms, and so I find myself sometimes defending big companies on copyright issues that come up in discussions. And that really sticks in my craw.
Bah, anyway.
Today was the small firm fair. Not a lot of firms there, and for some odd reason, every one I talked to said that they were only hiring first years, where last year every one wanted second and thirds. Ugh. Also, not a lot of people (dare I say no one) was really doing anything that interested me. Shall I never find a decent job in this economy?!? Ah well. I'm signed up for the Intel presentation, and they've apparently got some clerking opportunities for the summer. And it's the next best thing to my dream: being in-house counsel to a game company like id. Not that id has in-house counsel, but SOMEBODY has to help those guys write their licensing contracts and defend against tort lawsuits. (id software were the guys who created "DOOM", and were sued after the Columbine shootings because their games allegedly goaded impressionable teenagers into becoming murderers.)
Slouching toward Bethlehem
So, it turns out that Microsoft referred Baystar Capital, a venture capital firm, to SCO - currently suing IBM, and their first end-user - Daimler-Chrysler. (Thanks to scm for the heads up on the new lawsuit.)
Why am I not surprised?
Probably because I'm in law school, and we read about this kind of thing happpening ALL THE TIME!
In other law-school related news, yesterday I forgot how old I am (31).
That's not as bad as the poor girl who gave me my first tour of campus, who forgot the word "hallway". What other knowledge is leaking out my ears as I cram my head with tax codes, liability rules, and the DMCA?
Why am I not surprised?
Probably because I'm in law school, and we read about this kind of thing happpening ALL THE TIME!
In other law-school related news, yesterday I forgot how old I am (31).
That's not as bad as the poor girl who gave me my first tour of campus, who forgot the word "hallway". What other knowledge is leaking out my ears as I cram my head with tax codes, liability rules, and the DMCA?
Wednesday
Enough!
I think that's enough tweaking for one night - now at least I've got some kind of banner at the top.
I'm learning!
Much thanks to Jen for the help with the new template. Now I need a big ol' graphic for the top.
Cheap, DRM free audiobooks
Telltale Weekly
For those of us with no time to read what we want to any more, this sounds very interesting...
For those of us with no time to read what we want to any more, this sounds very interesting...
The Nuclear Weapon of Digital Rights Law
The Nuclear Weapon of Digital Rights Law
If this passes, don't go to Europe with your iPod. You might be facing commandos!
If this passes, don't go to Europe with your iPod. You might be facing commandos!
How far down does this slippery slope go?
Here is a really interesting article on the "Broadcast Flag" soon to be a part of digital broadcast signals.
The broadcast flag could be modified to not allow you to skip commercials, or change a channel, or turn the set off? Whoa.
The broadcast flag could be modified to not allow you to skip commercials, or change a channel, or turn the set off? Whoa.
Tuesday
Justice! Sweet, Juicy Justice!
Well, so going over copyright class, it turns out that derivative works don't have to be fixed to be infringing. So, your kids are playing "Harry Potter"? Infringement. Talking with your friends along the lines of "wouldn't it be cool if..." followed by your favorite superheroes meeting/fighting crime together, etc. Infringement.
Of course, there are defenses, (like fair use), but copyright gets bigger and bigger all the time.
And today, on one of the morning shows, they were talking about "Brain Fingerprinting". Basically, you can tell if someone has seen something before, because their brain waves emit an involuntary brain wave spike. How much closer are we getting to actual, factual thought police?
Okay, enough dystopian future. Well, maybe not quite enough. Reeta and I picked up Futurama, Season 3 on DVD today. Some of the best episodes in the series are in this season. Oh yeah.
Of course, there are defenses, (like fair use), but copyright gets bigger and bigger all the time.
And today, on one of the morning shows, they were talking about "Brain Fingerprinting". Basically, you can tell if someone has seen something before, because their brain waves emit an involuntary brain wave spike. How much closer are we getting to actual, factual thought police?
Okay, enough dystopian future. Well, maybe not quite enough. Reeta and I picked up Futurama, Season 3 on DVD today. Some of the best episodes in the series are in this season. Oh yeah.
Happy Lief Erickson Day!
Okay, so there isn't really any such thing as Lief Erickson day, at least not to my knowledge, but at least it's a nice day for it. So nice, in fact, that I'm wearing shorts for the first time this year. So, if you're walking along, and are suddenly blinded by a white flash of light, that's probably my legs. We're talking pale, pale, pale. Anyway, things are looking good. UT2K4 is reserved, and while it's a little disturbing that the guy I was talking to today didn't have any idea what I was talking about when I mentioned the sweet deal ($20.00 gift voucher, $10.00 rebate, $10.00 when you turn in UT2K3), at this point I don't care. It's going to be cheaper than I thought it was going to be, I've already kicked in $5.00, it's gonna be great.
Today's my long day - at the school from 10:00 AM to 9:30 PM, with work, study, class, lunch, etc. It's fun on a bun. And I forgot my water bottle. ^.^''
Today's my long day - at the school from 10:00 AM to 9:30 PM, with work, study, class, lunch, etc. It's fun on a bun. And I forgot my water bottle. ^.^''
Monday
The Unique Items of the Universe...
The image is © Hudson, and is being used here without their express permission.
Claire was pretending today to be one of the HigeHige, those cute little robber robots in Bomberman Jetters, who are intent on stealing only the most unique one-of-a-kind objects in the universe.
So I sent her after Reeta's soda.
Mistake!
Poor Reeta only got two hours of sleep last night - had to take her dad to the airport early this morning, was up WAY too late with me. Ah well.
In the meantime, keeping up with my other magnificent obsessions, it looks like Bryan Singer's next project is a remake of the greatest late-night movie of all time, "Logan's Run." Check out Aint It Cool News for the full story, and a nice review of a script for the Christian Bale Batman movie.
(For those of you keeping score, numbers 2 & 3 are "Hawk the Slayer", and "Krull", and late night means post 12:30 AM).
Bringin' the love...
So, Saturday evening, Claire and I went shopping for her Pokemon cards. We wound up with two packs of cards, and some treats. Then we went to the mall, where I picked up the first volume of Rurouni Kenshin, thinking maybe Claire and I could read it together. Let's just say that's not happening. Any comic where you see panels that consist of a couple of thumbs, an ear, and an accompanying blood spray floating through the air is probably not a good one for pre-schoolers. (Yeah, it was one of Claire's favorite cartoons on Cartoon Network, Yeah, it was moved to Adult Swim, and now we know why. Oh well.)
Then we went to See's chocolates.
Now, people who know me are aware that I am not the world's most romantic guy. Reeta is painfully aware of this fact. So, bringing home a 1/2 lb. of hand-picked chocolates and a six-pack of her favorite soda was a surprise to her, to say the least. She does an awful lot for me, and I'm not really good at letting her know how much I appreciate her. The women at See's asked me if I wanted it gift wrapped, going so far as to mention that it was a nice romantic touch. To which I responded "Ya know, to tell the truth, this happens so rarely that I think that just the chocolates are going to put us over the top". And to be honest, Reeta was so happy when I brought them home, I couldn't help but wonder "Man, what would happen if I brought home flowers?"
Then we went to See's chocolates.
Now, people who know me are aware that I am not the world's most romantic guy. Reeta is painfully aware of this fact. So, bringing home a 1/2 lb. of hand-picked chocolates and a six-pack of her favorite soda was a surprise to her, to say the least. She does an awful lot for me, and I'm not really good at letting her know how much I appreciate her. The women at See's asked me if I wanted it gift wrapped, going so far as to mention that it was a nice romantic touch. To which I responded "Ya know, to tell the truth, this happens so rarely that I think that just the chocolates are going to put us over the top". And to be honest, Reeta was so happy when I brought them home, I couldn't help but wonder "Man, what would happen if I brought home flowers?"
Sunday
Family Traditions
Man, do I love Sunday. Church in the morning, so you get spiritually fed. Then, when you get home... Nachos! (So you get fed, period). Actually, today it was quesadillas. A little shredded cheddar, a little canned chili, some tortillas, some salsa, and the George Foreman Lean Mean Fat Reducing Grilling Machine. tm.
Corbin got a new N64 game - Super Smash Bros. Think a kinder, gentler Mortal Kombat with Nintendo characters. And it amazes me that the best character in the game - the one that I win with time and time again... is Kirby. That's right. The "I'm suckin' your powers" pink marshmallow guy. He whips booty time after time, sending Corbin into a mini-rant "Why do you always pick Kirby?"
To which my response is "Why do you always pick Donkey Kong?" He's growling at me now, not understanding that growling at Zach means that Corbin doesn't get to play Zach's new Spider-Man game. Ah well, lessons learned, right?
I actually held back from an earlier family tradition - that of physically punching the guy playing a video game against him, thereby gaining a momentary advantage in the game while he rubs his arm. (he, he). Thank my little brothers and Super Street Fighter II for that one. Ah, memories.
Corbin got a new N64 game - Super Smash Bros. Think a kinder, gentler Mortal Kombat with Nintendo characters. And it amazes me that the best character in the game - the one that I win with time and time again... is Kirby. That's right. The "I'm suckin' your powers" pink marshmallow guy. He whips booty time after time, sending Corbin into a mini-rant "Why do you always pick Kirby?"
To which my response is "Why do you always pick Donkey Kong?" He's growling at me now, not understanding that growling at Zach means that Corbin doesn't get to play Zach's new Spider-Man game. Ah well, lessons learned, right?
I actually held back from an earlier family tradition - that of physically punching the guy playing a video game against him, thereby gaining a momentary advantage in the game while he rubs his arm. (he, he). Thank my little brothers and Super Street Fighter II for that one. Ah, memories.
Saturday
It's the little things in life...
Reeta and I tried Thai food for the first time last night. Wow! We were both really impressed. I'm wondering why we've never done that before. After, we looked for a movie to go to, but couldn't really find one. So, off to the Olive Garden for dessert. So much good food. Mmmmm. Then we made an early night of it, came home, and put in a Daffy Duck dvd from Netflix. We were both laughing pretty hard, though we were disappointed that it didn't have the Robin Hood episode.
After losing horribly to Claire in her Kirby game, I paid her off today with a pack of Sandstorm Pokemon cards. She got a couple interesting cards, including a Wobbuffet, a foil Growlithe, and a Sandshrew. I picked up a pack of EX-Dragon Pokemon cards, and lucked into a holo-Latios ex.
After a horrifying accident yesterday, I found myself in a position where I had to replace my GBA. Thank goodness for the one-year protection policy I bought for it. In other related news, I am quite stoked today. Unreal Tournament 2004 ships on the 16th, and the guy at EBX told me that his store was running a sweet deal. Essentially, You get a $20.00 gift card from them when you buy the game (39.99), plus a ten dollar rebate from the manufacturer, plus ten dollars credit when you turn in Unreal Tournament 2003. Which I have.
So, sometime this week, I'll pop over to EBX, and reserve the title. Yee-haw!
It's the little things in life, right?
After losing horribly to Claire in her Kirby game, I paid her off today with a pack of Sandstorm Pokemon cards. She got a couple interesting cards, including a Wobbuffet, a foil Growlithe, and a Sandshrew. I picked up a pack of EX-Dragon Pokemon cards, and lucked into a holo-Latios ex.
After a horrifying accident yesterday, I found myself in a position where I had to replace my GBA. Thank goodness for the one-year protection policy I bought for it. In other related news, I am quite stoked today. Unreal Tournament 2004 ships on the 16th, and the guy at EBX told me that his store was running a sweet deal. Essentially, You get a $20.00 gift card from them when you buy the game (39.99), plus a ten dollar rebate from the manufacturer, plus ten dollars credit when you turn in Unreal Tournament 2003. Which I have.
So, sometime this week, I'll pop over to EBX, and reserve the title. Yee-haw!
It's the little things in life, right?
Friday
Special Guest Star
Claire is sitting in the Computer Lab with me. She's been whipping me at the Kirby game she got in her Wendy's Kid's meal. She's taken me two out of three, and now I owe her Pokemon cards.
I gotta quit gambling!
I gotta quit gambling!
Martha Stewart Found Guilty, and Reeta's sister has a baby!
Forbes.com: Martha Stewart Found Guilty
Wow. I can't help but feel sorry for her, a little bit. It's almost a national pasttime to dislike Martha Stewart, and you hope that didn't play into the decision. Now it's a question of sentencing and appeals. To be honest, I haven't been following this too closely, I honestly thought she'd get off. But now I'm curious what her possible grounds for appeal are. Yes, an appeal at this point would be a "very good thing".
In other news, I am an uncle (again). Baby Nicholas Ryan Delis was born to Reeta's sister, Beth, and her happy hubby Sam in Austin, Texas yesterday. Congratulations to the happy parents. Beth is probably feeling much better now - the baby was born at ten pounds one ounce, and 21 inches.
Wow. I can't help but feel sorry for her, a little bit. It's almost a national pasttime to dislike Martha Stewart, and you hope that didn't play into the decision. Now it's a question of sentencing and appeals. To be honest, I haven't been following this too closely, I honestly thought she'd get off. But now I'm curious what her possible grounds for appeal are. Yes, an appeal at this point would be a "very good thing".
In other news, I am an uncle (again). Baby Nicholas Ryan Delis was born to Reeta's sister, Beth, and her happy hubby Sam in Austin, Texas yesterday. Congratulations to the happy parents. Beth is probably feeling much better now - the baby was born at ten pounds one ounce, and 21 inches.
Thursday
Lunch is served
I always enjoy eating lunch with "The Firm" - Beth, Vathana, Mike, Shannon, Steve (when he's there). It's always good fun - and lets me bounce ideas off everybody. Today we're celebrating the recent job change of Michael Eisner. Oh yeah. Fun, fun, fun.
You'll notice that I added the creative commons license to the blog. Anything I write here is covered under that license, anything on the project is under that license, anything on House of Claire is under ©. Really, the only reason for that is that I don't necessarily want people making derivative works involving my little girl's picture. Can you blame me?
You'll notice that I added the creative commons license to the blog. Anything I write here is covered under that license, anything on the project is under that license, anything on House of Claire is under ©. Really, the only reason for that is that I don't necessarily want people making derivative works involving my little girl's picture. Can you blame me?
Wednesday
No writing last night or tonight
Sorry, campers, but the realities of law school have reared their ugly head (along with my general lack of organization), so last night and tonight I'm taking a break from the project. C'est la guerre!
E! Online News - Did Paris "Direct" Sex Tape?
Hail to the Chef!
You're Thailand!
Calmer and more staunchly independent than almost all those around you, you have a long history of rising above adversity. Recent adversity has led to questions about your sexual promiscuity and the threat of disease, but you still manage to attract a number of tourists and admirers. And despite any setbacks, you can really cook a good meal whenever it's called for. Good enough to make people cry.
Take the Country
Quiz at the Blue Pyramid
Thanks to Jen for the link to the quiz.
The Gods of the Copybook Headings
Well, this promises to be an interesting day. I'm not exactly sure how much I'm looking forward to it. Today, Multnomah County is starting to issue same-sex marriage licenses.
Now, I'm sure that a lot of people will say that this is a great thing. A lot of people will say that this is a great step forward for civil rights, for equality, for gay rights. And while all of that may be true, I'm not convinced that this is a move in the right direction.
While I am personally against same-sex marriages for religious reasons, I also understand that it's difficult to argue this issue without bringing religion into the discussion. And I think the courts will see that, and shy away from any religious/moral arguments. It's also an argument that's easy for others to attack. We've had a lot of practice attacking religion and the morals associated with it in this country - division of church and state issues have made us very good at arguing against religious interests. And it's become very easy to dismiss religious-based arguments as being without logic. My Dad's passionate about this issue - more so than I am, in a lot of ways. He's absolutely convinced that this is wrong, and he's passionate about it. And while I'm convinced it's wrong, I don't have my Dad's fiery passion about the issue. Mine is much more subdued - a chill rather than a flame.
A friend at law school the other day, wanted to know what my favorite poem was. It's The Gods of the Copybook Headings by Rudyard Kipling. Here's a link to it.
Now, I'm sure that a lot of people will say that this is a great thing. A lot of people will say that this is a great step forward for civil rights, for equality, for gay rights. And while all of that may be true, I'm not convinced that this is a move in the right direction.
While I am personally against same-sex marriages for religious reasons, I also understand that it's difficult to argue this issue without bringing religion into the discussion. And I think the courts will see that, and shy away from any religious/moral arguments. It's also an argument that's easy for others to attack. We've had a lot of practice attacking religion and the morals associated with it in this country - division of church and state issues have made us very good at arguing against religious interests. And it's become very easy to dismiss religious-based arguments as being without logic. My Dad's passionate about this issue - more so than I am, in a lot of ways. He's absolutely convinced that this is wrong, and he's passionate about it. And while I'm convinced it's wrong, I don't have my Dad's fiery passion about the issue. Mine is much more subdued - a chill rather than a flame.
A friend at law school the other day, wanted to know what my favorite poem was. It's The Gods of the Copybook Headings by Rudyard Kipling. Here's a link to it.
Tuesday
Family traditions
So, when I was younger, my little brother (as most little brother's do), would ask for a bite of whatever I was eating. And, being a decent older brother (I thought), I'd let him. Until the day he asked for a bite of something - like a cookie or something, nothing too big. And then he put the whole thing in his mouth.
Thus was born the "Sean Bite"©. And to this day, if a family member asks another for a bite of something, the correct response is "Sure, as long as it isn't a Sean Bite."
Now, Claire having heard the story from me once, the other day, asked for a bite of something. And when I gave it to her, she gave an evil laugh, and told me she was about to take a Sean Bite.
A tear came to my eye as I was wrestling my toaster pastry back from the clutches of my precocious five year old child, to know two things. 1. She's really paying attention to those stories. and 2. That's both a pleasant and a disturbing thing.
Thus was born the "Sean Bite"©. And to this day, if a family member asks another for a bite of something, the correct response is "Sure, as long as it isn't a Sean Bite."
Now, Claire having heard the story from me once, the other day, asked for a bite of something. And when I gave it to her, she gave an evil laugh, and told me she was about to take a Sean Bite.
A tear came to my eye as I was wrestling my toaster pastry back from the clutches of my precocious five year old child, to know two things. 1. She's really paying attention to those stories. and 2. That's both a pleasant and a disturbing thing.
Monday
Ready, Steady, Go!
So, I've been looking around for a couple of weeks for the new opening and closing songs to one of the anime series I'm watching - Fullmetal Alchemist. (Download and read the manga here, or find and download the episodes here. Great series, though not for kids - (one of the things I've always appreciated about Japanese animation is that it isn't necessarily made for kids). It's actually kind of sad, really. It's about the things you sacrifice in life for the things you think you want - the principle of equivalent trade.
Of course, Square-Enix is involved, and I've been an admirer of their work since Final Fantasy III (VI in Japan - go figure) on the SNES. That means two things. First, video game tie-ins. FMA for the PS2 is already out in Japan. Second, it also means a certain degree of quality storytelling.
Claire, Corbin, Me, Reeta, and Grandpa all went to the park today, where I spent my time reading for Partnership tax (yay! I'm commited! or maybe I need to be.) Fun for everyone.
Of course, Square-Enix is involved, and I've been an admirer of their work since Final Fantasy III (VI in Japan - go figure) on the SNES. That means two things. First, video game tie-ins. FMA for the PS2 is already out in Japan. Second, it also means a certain degree of quality storytelling.
Claire, Corbin, Me, Reeta, and Grandpa all went to the park today, where I spent my time reading for Partnership tax (yay! I'm commited! or maybe I need to be.) Fun for everyone.
Batting 1000
Well, Yang should be pretty happy this morning, after eleven Oscars for LOTR:ROTK. What else is there to say?
Hail to the King, baby.
Hail to the King, baby.
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