A while back when I read about a remake of Spider-Man coming so soon after the Tobey Maguire as Spider-Man movies, I was skeptical. I enjoyed the Sam Raimi directed movies, the second one especially (third one not so much), and enjoyed the cast enough to question the wisdom of replacing it already.
Well, I am here to admit that I was wrong. Whoever at Sony had the vision to start anew and turn over the franchise to Marc Webb deserves a cut of the profits. Webb has made a career of directing music videos; he has under his belt only one feature film, though it was a lovely independent movie. Choosing him for this big budget, high expectations movie was a gamble that paid off.
The Amazing Spider-Man is one of the most solidly entertaining movies I've seen in a while. It has it all: good story and pace, tension, escapism, action, romance, humor, great cast, and a dash of schmaltz. If I watched it in slow motion and analyzed the timing of every plot element I'd undoubtedly spot curious jumps of logic, but I have no desire to do that. It's just solid entertainment. The movie involved me from beginning to end. I would watch it again. I'm glad I didn't wait until it came out on dvd. There aren't many movies I'd say these things about.
I had worried that Andrew Garfield and Emma Stone, now aged 29 and 24 respectively, would require imagination to see them as high school students Peter and Gwen, but I was wrong about that too. Whether through lighting, makeup, good direction on body language or what, they looked perfect. (If I may take umbrage with one thing in the movie, it's Gwen's work attire; high school student worker wearing thigh high stockings with a mini skirt, leading a tour of interns at a high falutin' genetics company? I don't think so. That was a choice for eye candy, pure and simple.) The supporting cast includes Sally Field, Martin Sheen, Rhys Ifans, and Denis Leary (and a minor role by C. Thomas Howell).
This isn't a film just for particular groups or interests; it's for everyone. If you like movies, you'll enjoy The Amazing Spider-Man.
Showing posts with label recommendations. Show all posts
Showing posts with label recommendations. Show all posts
July 27, 2012
March 20, 2012
Community
There are few things that I believe could make more of an immediate positive impact on society than if a greater percentage of people got involved in their communities. The following list is from a poster entitled "How to build community." I'd love to make this list into a series of bumper stickers, and wrap them around a car. Or place them in public spaces. There are a few I'm not sure about* but for the most part it's a brilliant list of suggestions.
* Another one I wonder about is putting up a swing. We've had a baby swing hanging from a sturdy tree branch next to the sidewalk in front of our house for a year and a half, and not one person walking down the sidewalk has even appeared tempted to slide their child into it, as inviting a setting as it might be. Then again, maybe if I posted a sign...
Turn off your TV* Dancing in the street might be a quick way to meet the neighbors, and have them assess me for craziness. On the other hand, if I saw a group of kids dancing, or if dancing was incorporated into a street party, that would be a fantastic sight.
Leave your house
Know your neighbors
Look up when you are walking
Greet people
Sit on your stoop
Plant flowers
Use your library
Play together
Buy from local merchants
Share what you have
Help a lost dog
Take children to the park
Garden together
Support neighborhood schools
Fix it even if you didn't break it
Have potlucks
Honor elders
Pick up litter
Read stories aloud
Dance in the street
Talk to the mail carrier
Listen to the birds
Put up a swing
Help carry something heavy
Barter for your goods
Start a tradition
Ask a question
Hire young people for odd jobs
Organize a block party
Bake extra and share
Ask for help when you need it
Open your shades
Sing together
Share your skills
Take back the night
Turn up the music
Turn down the music
Listen before you react to anger
Mediate a conflict
Seek to understand
Learn from new and uncomfortable angles
Know that no one is silent although many are not heard. Work to change this.
* Another one I wonder about is putting up a swing. We've had a baby swing hanging from a sturdy tree branch next to the sidewalk in front of our house for a year and a half, and not one person walking down the sidewalk has even appeared tempted to slide their child into it, as inviting a setting as it might be. Then again, maybe if I posted a sign...
May 16, 2011
White elephant
According to Wikipedia:
1. THE PURELY SILLY GIFT: USB Pet Rock, $9.99 from ThinkGeek.com. As the retailer name would indicate, this product is targeted at tech geeks, particularly those between the ages of 35 and 45 (aka children of the 1970s). I love that it's compatible with every operating system, past or future, and draws no power.
2. THE ARTFUL FOODIE GIFT: Artisan flowering tea, $9.95 from Stash Tea. For ten bucks you get two tea packets. This specialty product requires an appreciative audience, or else your money is truly wasted. Drop a packet into a glass bowl (or glass tea pot, if you've got one of those lying around) and pour hot water over it. Watch as the packet unfurls into some arty shape. So you get a lovely pot of tea on two counts.
3. THE GENERIC READER GIFT: A copy of a bestseller (look at NYT or Amazon lists). This may seem boring, but chances are someone in the crowd is going to want the book, and you can leave the party feeling your gift won't go to waste. Right now I'd pick comedy writer/actress Tina Fey's memoir Bossypants or the yet-to-be-released parent-sympathy book Go the F**k to Sleep by Adam Mansbach. Depending on the dollar limit, I might throw in a pair of fuzzy socks or other comfort object to round out the "relax for a while" vibe of the gift.
4. THE INDULGENT EATER GIFT: Gourmet marshmallows, such as a 4 ounce bag of vanilla Plush Puffs for $6. Years ago we received a hot cocoa kit as a gift, which came with mugs, hot chocolate mix, some peppermint swizzle sticks and several enormous square marshmallows. I'm not much of a marshmallow fan, but these were delicious, absolutely melt in your mouth smooth puffy deliciousness. I'd happily share such joy with another. Package a bag of Plush Puffs with a container of Ghirardelli hot cocoa mix or some graham crackers and chocolate bars and you've got a delectable present.
4. THE ELUSIVE BOARD GAMER GIFT: Anything within price range from Mayfair games. What I'm sensing in my gift ideas list are an assortment of items I'd like to take home for myself. This particular gift idea, a semi-cerebral board game, would identify for me the person or people in the crowd whom I could later hit up to invite me over for a night of gaming. Maybe it would be such a success that we'd decide to schedule regular game nights. A gift that would keep on giving. :)
PS If you ever receive one of these gifts from me, I hope you like it. If not, you know you can always return it to me. :)
A white elephant gift exchange is a popular holiday party game found primarily in North America. It has many variations in both the name and the game play. Generally, white elephant parties need a minimum of six participants. With a larger group, game play may be more protracted. White elephant parties have been known to result in intensely vicious and/or playful rivalries between players trying to get sought after gifts. The goal of a white elephant party is usually to entertain rather than to gain. This game is sometimes called a Yankee Swap, Chinese Gift Exchange, Dirty Santa, Thieving Secret Santa, or Parcel Pass.I hardly ever get invited to gift exchange parties (why that is might be the subject for another post). When I have participated in a gift exchange, it's been during the end of year party season, which is half the calendar away at present. So naturally a few ideas for budget-limited gifts percolated to the top of my thoughts today. Because I am likely to forget these ideas by the time the next white elephant challenge presents itself to me, I thought I'd post them here for reference.
1. THE PURELY SILLY GIFT: USB Pet Rock, $9.99 from ThinkGeek.com. As the retailer name would indicate, this product is targeted at tech geeks, particularly those between the ages of 35 and 45 (aka children of the 1970s). I love that it's compatible with every operating system, past or future, and draws no power.
2. THE ARTFUL FOODIE GIFT: Artisan flowering tea, $9.95 from Stash Tea. For ten bucks you get two tea packets. This specialty product requires an appreciative audience, or else your money is truly wasted. Drop a packet into a glass bowl (or glass tea pot, if you've got one of those lying around) and pour hot water over it. Watch as the packet unfurls into some arty shape. So you get a lovely pot of tea on two counts.
3. THE GENERIC READER GIFT: A copy of a bestseller (look at NYT or Amazon lists). This may seem boring, but chances are someone in the crowd is going to want the book, and you can leave the party feeling your gift won't go to waste. Right now I'd pick comedy writer/actress Tina Fey's memoir Bossypants or the yet-to-be-released parent-sympathy book Go the F**k to Sleep by Adam Mansbach. Depending on the dollar limit, I might throw in a pair of fuzzy socks or other comfort object to round out the "relax for a while" vibe of the gift.
4. THE INDULGENT EATER GIFT: Gourmet marshmallows, such as a 4 ounce bag of vanilla Plush Puffs for $6. Years ago we received a hot cocoa kit as a gift, which came with mugs, hot chocolate mix, some peppermint swizzle sticks and several enormous square marshmallows. I'm not much of a marshmallow fan, but these were delicious, absolutely melt in your mouth smooth puffy deliciousness. I'd happily share such joy with another. Package a bag of Plush Puffs with a container of Ghirardelli hot cocoa mix or some graham crackers and chocolate bars and you've got a delectable present.
4. THE ELUSIVE BOARD GAMER GIFT: Anything within price range from Mayfair games. What I'm sensing in my gift ideas list are an assortment of items I'd like to take home for myself. This particular gift idea, a semi-cerebral board game, would identify for me the person or people in the crowd whom I could later hit up to invite me over for a night of gaming. Maybe it would be such a success that we'd decide to schedule regular game nights. A gift that would keep on giving. :)
PS If you ever receive one of these gifts from me, I hope you like it. If not, you know you can always return it to me. :)
September 09, 2009
Highbrow, lowbrow
I've got two tv shows to recommend this week: one that aired originally a few years back but is still fabulous; and the other a new show that's just ended its first season and whose future is up in the air.
I just caught a fabulous episode of the PBS program Nature entitled Queen of Trees. It's a largely unnarrated film about the ubiquitous fig tree (there are 1000 varieties, who knew?) and its direct and indirect role in sustaining many lifeforms (the show's summary implies this is just about a tree and its dedicated wasp, but really the show is about one tree and the entire ecosystem it feeds). Beautifully filmed in high definition and thoughtfully edited, I found myself contentedly oohing and aahing repeatedly (such as when the guy patiently smokes out the bees then digs out the honeycomb, or when the alligator waits with its mouth open at the rockfall in the stream). And for what it's worth, even Adam was enthralled. (Before you ask, I will admit to allowing my 8-month old to occasionally watch nature programs and nonviolent sporting events with me, an extent of tv viewing I think reasonable for the next five years or so.)
The second show I recommend is the season finale of 10 Things I Hate About You. Loosely based on the movie of the same name (which was a loose adaptation of The Taming of the Shrew, one of several modernizations of classic stories that I also heartily recommend), this 30-minute ABC Family teen show features a solid cast, amusing storylines, and some very clever writing.
There's a time and a place for expanding one's mind, and there's a time and place for relaxing it. I'm proud to offer you opportunities for both.
UPDATE 9/17/09: The 10 Things season finale, that I enjoyed so much, drew this response from David (imagine him looking completely unimpressed as he says...): "This is the episode you were so excited about?" Well pttht to David. I for one am quite happy the show was renewed, and I know he'll be right next to me as I watch them.
I just caught a fabulous episode of the PBS program Nature entitled Queen of Trees. It's a largely unnarrated film about the ubiquitous fig tree (there are 1000 varieties, who knew?) and its direct and indirect role in sustaining many lifeforms (the show's summary implies this is just about a tree and its dedicated wasp, but really the show is about one tree and the entire ecosystem it feeds). Beautifully filmed in high definition and thoughtfully edited, I found myself contentedly oohing and aahing repeatedly (such as when the guy patiently smokes out the bees then digs out the honeycomb, or when the alligator waits with its mouth open at the rockfall in the stream). And for what it's worth, even Adam was enthralled. (Before you ask, I will admit to allowing my 8-month old to occasionally watch nature programs and nonviolent sporting events with me, an extent of tv viewing I think reasonable for the next five years or so.)
The second show I recommend is the season finale of 10 Things I Hate About You. Loosely based on the movie of the same name (which was a loose adaptation of The Taming of the Shrew, one of several modernizations of classic stories that I also heartily recommend), this 30-minute ABC Family teen show features a solid cast, amusing storylines, and some very clever writing.
Cameron: Despite everything, I still feel that Bianca and I are meant to be together. Haven't you ever known something deep in your heart?Okay, so it's not Proust. But it's cute and contemporary and generally compelling, and it could use a few more viewers to ensure its return. Check it out.
Michael: I'm fifteen, I know things deep in my pants. That's why I don't waste time on chicks that aren't into me.
There's a time and a place for expanding one's mind, and there's a time and place for relaxing it. I'm proud to offer you opportunities for both.
UPDATE 9/17/09: The 10 Things season finale, that I enjoyed so much, drew this response from David (imagine him looking completely unimpressed as he says...): "This is the episode you were so excited about?" Well pttht to David. I for one am quite happy the show was renewed, and I know he'll be right next to me as I watch them.
June 25, 2009
It's the (cock)pits
For once the Freakonomics guys don't have the best guest commentator on a subject. Last month they befriended an airline pilot named Steve, who they've let rant about the industry and offer a few useful glimpses into pilots' work. Alas, the reader comments are more interesting by far. Over on Salon.com another pilot is a lot more coherent and offers much more interesting and useful insights, though he too has a tendency to rant a bit. Must be something about pilots. Anyway, go read Ask the Pilot when you have time to spare. Fascinating stuff.
December 04, 2008
Entertain me
The baby does a decent job of amusing me, but at the moment his limited endurance and hideaway status make him insufficient to meet all my entertainment needs. (NOT that I am having a child in order to have someone to entertain me. Wait, then why am I having a child? And come to think of it, I could nearly substitute "David" for "the baby" in that opening sentence. Hmmm.) Anyway, thank goodness I've found a few other amusements in the past week, as I have been occasionally cranky and wanting a bit of escape.
READING
After several wrong turns at the library over the last month I hit upon a lovely book, one that has lingered on my "Read this?" list for years: The Girls' Guide to Hunting and Fishing by Melissa Bank. What I thought would be a typical chick lit novel turns out to be a nuanced (fictional) life story told through a series of funny/sad/reflective vignettes. The plot, such as it is, seems to center on the progression of relationships in one woman's life. The perpetually staccato first person narrative style might grate on some readers, but I'm really enjoying it. In particular there are wonderful little one liners throughout, ones that make you laugh and think at the same time. Just my kind of contemporary light fiction.
MOVIE
For more vulgar and masculine amusement this week I turned to the Ben Stiller faux-action comedy Tropic Thunder. I'd wanted to see this in theaters and missed it, so was anxiously awaiting its release on DVD; I was so excited that we watched it the day it arrived (ask David how rarely this happens). Maybe in a different mood, such as in a non-tired-and-pregnant state, Tropic Thunder wouldn't have tickled me so, but for now I really liked it.
This tale of a group of self absorbed actors who come to realize their abandonment in a contrived jungle warfare location is actually the real deal had me laughing nearly beginning to end. I particularly appreciated that it included the strengths of Stiller's comedic style (some very crass humor alongside clever pointed commentary on pop culture) with less of the goofy/painful humor so many of his films thrive on. Also, Stiller didn't hog the camera as much as he often does, thus his awkward character (does he play any other kind?) did not drag down the pace. There was some controversy before film was released about Robert Downey Jr's playing an actor in black face, but I thought this part of the story was one of the funniest (and not offensive). Cast was well used, plot made enough sense so you could laugh without setting reality completely aside (no easy feat for such a ridiculous storyline), and only the ending was a bit disappointing (abrupt, I thought). Recommended for fans of grown up potty humor.
COMPUTERS
Have you heard of Diner Dash or any of its variants? It's a simple but addictive computer game that can completely suck you in if you're not careful. In each of these games you become service worker Flo, whether as a waitress, cook, seamstress, animal caretaker, or whatever other industry game you're playing (there are at least 3 Diner Dash sequels, as well as Wedding Dash, Doggie Dash, Fashion Dash, and others). Settings change, but formula for play remains the same: an odd assortment of customers (firemen, snooty society folk, old ladies with cats, cranky cigar smoking men dressed as chickens, you get the idea) come in during a timed shift and you must meet their requests and satisfy their moods in a timely and accurate manner in order to progress. Your reward at the end of a successful shift is money to upgrade facilities so you can serve still more, crankier customers with an ever greater, more complicated variety of services in the next shift (until you reach the last--there is a definite end, though you can play "endless" variation for a fix after you're done). Up until you've exhausted all levels, you choose which upgrades to take on as you go for ever bigger rewards. Of course more upgrades means more complex task expectations. And the game throws in scheduled curves as well; after so many rounds in one arrangement, the game moves Flo's supplies, machinery, and service counter to new spots on screen, thus ruining any routines you've established to get in the groove and succeed.
Do I sound like someone who has spent too much time playing (and thinking about) these games? Maybe, although I haven't actually played them very much at all. See, I'm too cheap to buy the (IMO overpriced) full game, and the free trials are limited to one hour of savable play then some unknown number of 5-minute stints (which when time expires boot you out quite abruptly). So I might have played a grand total of maybe 4 hours' worth of the original Diner Dash and its sequels over nearly two years. But when I play I always enjoy it, get back into the swing very quickly, and look forward to each new installment in the franchise. Which is why I recommend this game to anyone seeking bursts of free, mindless, computer gaming amusement.
READING
After several wrong turns at the library over the last month I hit upon a lovely book, one that has lingered on my "Read this?" list for years: The Girls' Guide to Hunting and Fishing by Melissa Bank. What I thought would be a typical chick lit novel turns out to be a nuanced (fictional) life story told through a series of funny/sad/reflective vignettes. The plot, such as it is, seems to center on the progression of relationships in one woman's life. The perpetually staccato first person narrative style might grate on some readers, but I'm really enjoying it. In particular there are wonderful little one liners throughout, ones that make you laugh and think at the same time. Just my kind of contemporary light fiction.
MOVIE
For more vulgar and masculine amusement this week I turned to the Ben Stiller faux-action comedy Tropic Thunder. I'd wanted to see this in theaters and missed it, so was anxiously awaiting its release on DVD; I was so excited that we watched it the day it arrived (ask David how rarely this happens). Maybe in a different mood, such as in a non-tired-and-pregnant state, Tropic Thunder wouldn't have tickled me so, but for now I really liked it.
This tale of a group of self absorbed actors who come to realize their abandonment in a contrived jungle warfare location is actually the real deal had me laughing nearly beginning to end. I particularly appreciated that it included the strengths of Stiller's comedic style (some very crass humor alongside clever pointed commentary on pop culture) with less of the goofy/painful humor so many of his films thrive on. Also, Stiller didn't hog the camera as much as he often does, thus his awkward character (does he play any other kind?) did not drag down the pace. There was some controversy before film was released about Robert Downey Jr's playing an actor in black face, but I thought this part of the story was one of the funniest (and not offensive). Cast was well used, plot made enough sense so you could laugh without setting reality completely aside (no easy feat for such a ridiculous storyline), and only the ending was a bit disappointing (abrupt, I thought). Recommended for fans of grown up potty humor.
COMPUTERS
Have you heard of Diner Dash or any of its variants? It's a simple but addictive computer game that can completely suck you in if you're not careful. In each of these games you become service worker Flo, whether as a waitress, cook, seamstress, animal caretaker, or whatever other industry game you're playing (there are at least 3 Diner Dash sequels, as well as Wedding Dash, Doggie Dash, Fashion Dash, and others). Settings change, but formula for play remains the same: an odd assortment of customers (firemen, snooty society folk, old ladies with cats, cranky cigar smoking men dressed as chickens, you get the idea) come in during a timed shift and you must meet their requests and satisfy their moods in a timely and accurate manner in order to progress. Your reward at the end of a successful shift is money to upgrade facilities so you can serve still more, crankier customers with an ever greater, more complicated variety of services in the next shift (until you reach the last--there is a definite end, though you can play "endless" variation for a fix after you're done). Up until you've exhausted all levels, you choose which upgrades to take on as you go for ever bigger rewards. Of course more upgrades means more complex task expectations. And the game throws in scheduled curves as well; after so many rounds in one arrangement, the game moves Flo's supplies, machinery, and service counter to new spots on screen, thus ruining any routines you've established to get in the groove and succeed.
Do I sound like someone who has spent too much time playing (and thinking about) these games? Maybe, although I haven't actually played them very much at all. See, I'm too cheap to buy the (IMO overpriced) full game, and the free trials are limited to one hour of savable play then some unknown number of 5-minute stints (which when time expires boot you out quite abruptly). So I might have played a grand total of maybe 4 hours' worth of the original Diner Dash and its sequels over nearly two years. But when I play I always enjoy it, get back into the swing very quickly, and look forward to each new installment in the franchise. Which is why I recommend this game to anyone seeking bursts of free, mindless, computer gaming amusement.
May 12, 2008
News and Amusements
Today's topics:
I've grown fond of Countdown with Keith Olbermann. Granted when I watch I tend to do so in fast forward, skipping most of the longer segments (I'm not generally a fan of ratings-focused network news; for more balanced, in-depth current events reporting and analysis I strongly recommend you check out The NewsHour and The World). But Olbermann is always free with his opinions in an amusing way, he genuinely seems to care about important issues, and he does raise some good points. And his Worse, Worser, Worst Person of the Day bit at the end of the news countdown is hilarious (albeit often anti-Bush Administration). It's not must-see TV, but it's certainly entertaining. Recommended to liberals and news junkies.
[Warning: I have maybe a higher than average tolerance for graphic--but nonviolent--stories, and others might not like the visual imagery involved in this next paragraph. There, you've been warned....]
Do I live in a weird-news bubble? No one I've asked seems to recall the last time a woman was found on a toilet and had to be removed from the home with outside assistance. Apparently the boyfriend of this 35-year old woman left her sitting for two years because she wanted to be left there. Apparently the boyfriend has no sense of his own. She was there so long that her skin had overgrown the seat (which I can easily imagine, having had a similar skin growth experience with earrings when I was a kid, but that story is for another time). Think that's bad? The latest toilet story involved a 90-year old woman who died on the toilet and was left there for 2 months! Yuck. And it's not like she lived alone; since the woman was on the only toilet in the house, the household had to use a bucket (you can guess for what). They left her there because they thought she wasn't completely dead and they could pray her back to life. What?!
I was struck by this odd double-play of toilet victims, but apparently no one else I know was. Of course, I thought absolutely everyone within hearing distance of a TV or radio would have learned about the Austrian man who fathered 6 kids with his allegedly missing daughter (if you don't know the story I won't share it here). And yet my own brother hadn't heard. And David hadn't heard of it until I told him. (As I was relating the story to my brother, his jaw stuck open in shock, he looked to David who just said, "Oh it gets worse.")
Apparently I am drawn to news of the weird in a way that is not shared by those closest to me. I will thus keep further wacky news to myself and dedicate the remainder of today's posting to more erudite offerings, like public radio, documentaries, and explorations of religious life, in the hopes that I am somewhat redeemed in your eyes. :)
If you've read about the tornado in Picher, Oklahoma, then you probably also read that the town is a Superfund site. There was an interesting documentary about Picher called The Creek Runs Red, which aired on the public television series Independent Lens last fall. It tells the story of the birth and death of Picher's now-we-know-it's-toxic lead mining industry, and the government's recent efforts to empty the area of inhabitants. Many people chose to stay, either for financial or personal history reasons, and the filmmakers do a good job of highlighting the complexity of toxic cleanups in established communities, especially poorer ones. Ah, environmental justice.
The Creek Runs Red is just one of many fascinating documentaries aired on Independent Lens, and I would recommend many others for your viewing pleasure. David and I enjoyed the endearingly simple King Corn recently, even though most of its lessons about modern agricultural production can be learned just as well elsewhere. I was really touched by Hard Road Home, which shows the work of a New York City organization started by an enterprising ex convict dedicated to helping other ex-cons get on with productive lives; alas, as you might expect, it's not all happily ever after. Or check out Knocking to learn more about Jehovah's Witnesses (some of your assumptions about them just might be wrong). I coud go on and on; the series has showcased years' worth of award winning documentaries on every subject under the sun. I highly recommend it.
Fresh Air with Terry Gross has been particularly good lately. It's a daily radio program that airs on NPR stations around the country. Terry (or her guest host) invites writers, musicians, actors, filmmakers, journalists and other observers and creators of interesting stuff to talk about their work for 20-40 minutes. Last Thursday on Fresh Air the guest was Adam Liptak, who contributes articles to the New York Times series American Exception, comparing the American justice system with practices around the world. While the topic could easily turn divisive (we're worse, they're better, and vice versa), Liptak is actually quite guarded in drawing conclusions about which are better approaches. Our way of policing crimes is different from other places, he points out; what I got from him was that it's more interesting (and useful) to contemplate "Why?" and "To what end?" than to assess anyone as better or worse. Back in March, after the whole Obama-Wright brouhaha erupted, Terry spoke with several insiders in the field of Black Liberation Theology, the brand of sermonizing Wright was associated with before becoming something of his own brand. Far from offering an excuse for Wright's words, Dwight Hopkins (talking to Terry on March 31) did contextualize some of them, and provided intriguing insight into the religious and cultural roots of traditional black church sermons. I recommend both of these programs, and Fresh Air in general (subscribe to the Fresh Air podcast, or just listen to the pieces on history of Black Liberation Theology and comparative justice).
I make a point of decompressing my mind (figuratively, not literally) before going to sleep, and amusing bedtime reading is essential in that process. Lately I'd been plowing through a lot of cheesy fiction before hitting a cheesy-fiction wall; then the heavens opened and my inbox notified me that one of my several new book requests at the library had been fulfilled, after months of waiting. The Year of Living Biblically: One Man's Humble Quest to Follow the Bible as Literally as Possible is so amusing it's become not only bedtime reading but also start-the-morning-with-a-smile reading as well. In this non-fiction, diary-style book, A.J. Jacobs describes his one-year mission to live the rules of the Old and New Testaments as faithfully as is reasonable in modern times. Some rules were easy to adhere to (and contemplating them offers a nice cultural history lesson, plus a healthy dollop of appreciation for modern living); other rules however were virtually impossible to avoid breaking (and the author's descriptions of trying are some of the funniest moments of the book). The Year of Living Biblically does start a bit unevenly, but I think that once you get the gist of what he's doing and why, it's really quite a nice combo of enlightening and entertaining. Recommended to anyone interested in religion and modern life.
- Counting down the news
- Stuck on the toilet (aka News of the Weird)
- A tornado and a Superfund site in Picher, OK
- Documentaries in the comfort of your living room
- Learning from the radio
- Learning from a funny book
I've grown fond of Countdown with Keith Olbermann. Granted when I watch I tend to do so in fast forward, skipping most of the longer segments (I'm not generally a fan of ratings-focused network news; for more balanced, in-depth current events reporting and analysis I strongly recommend you check out The NewsHour and The World). But Olbermann is always free with his opinions in an amusing way, he genuinely seems to care about important issues, and he does raise some good points. And his Worse, Worser, Worst Person of the Day bit at the end of the news countdown is hilarious (albeit often anti-Bush Administration). It's not must-see TV, but it's certainly entertaining. Recommended to liberals and news junkies.
[Warning: I have maybe a higher than average tolerance for graphic--but nonviolent--stories, and others might not like the visual imagery involved in this next paragraph. There, you've been warned....]
Do I live in a weird-news bubble? No one I've asked seems to recall the last time a woman was found on a toilet and had to be removed from the home with outside assistance. Apparently the boyfriend of this 35-year old woman left her sitting for two years because she wanted to be left there. Apparently the boyfriend has no sense of his own. She was there so long that her skin had overgrown the seat (which I can easily imagine, having had a similar skin growth experience with earrings when I was a kid, but that story is for another time). Think that's bad? The latest toilet story involved a 90-year old woman who died on the toilet and was left there for 2 months! Yuck. And it's not like she lived alone; since the woman was on the only toilet in the house, the household had to use a bucket (you can guess for what). They left her there because they thought she wasn't completely dead and they could pray her back to life. What?!
I was struck by this odd double-play of toilet victims, but apparently no one else I know was. Of course, I thought absolutely everyone within hearing distance of a TV or radio would have learned about the Austrian man who fathered 6 kids with his allegedly missing daughter (if you don't know the story I won't share it here). And yet my own brother hadn't heard. And David hadn't heard of it until I told him. (As I was relating the story to my brother, his jaw stuck open in shock, he looked to David who just said, "Oh it gets worse.")
Apparently I am drawn to news of the weird in a way that is not shared by those closest to me. I will thus keep further wacky news to myself and dedicate the remainder of today's posting to more erudite offerings, like public radio, documentaries, and explorations of religious life, in the hopes that I am somewhat redeemed in your eyes. :)
If you've read about the tornado in Picher, Oklahoma, then you probably also read that the town is a Superfund site. There was an interesting documentary about Picher called The Creek Runs Red, which aired on the public television series Independent Lens last fall. It tells the story of the birth and death of Picher's now-we-know-it's-toxic lead mining industry, and the government's recent efforts to empty the area of inhabitants. Many people chose to stay, either for financial or personal history reasons, and the filmmakers do a good job of highlighting the complexity of toxic cleanups in established communities, especially poorer ones. Ah, environmental justice.
The Creek Runs Red is just one of many fascinating documentaries aired on Independent Lens, and I would recommend many others for your viewing pleasure. David and I enjoyed the endearingly simple King Corn recently, even though most of its lessons about modern agricultural production can be learned just as well elsewhere. I was really touched by Hard Road Home, which shows the work of a New York City organization started by an enterprising ex convict dedicated to helping other ex-cons get on with productive lives; alas, as you might expect, it's not all happily ever after. Or check out Knocking to learn more about Jehovah's Witnesses (some of your assumptions about them just might be wrong). I coud go on and on; the series has showcased years' worth of award winning documentaries on every subject under the sun. I highly recommend it.
Fresh Air with Terry Gross has been particularly good lately. It's a daily radio program that airs on NPR stations around the country. Terry (or her guest host) invites writers, musicians, actors, filmmakers, journalists and other observers and creators of interesting stuff to talk about their work for 20-40 minutes. Last Thursday on Fresh Air the guest was Adam Liptak, who contributes articles to the New York Times series American Exception, comparing the American justice system with practices around the world. While the topic could easily turn divisive (we're worse, they're better, and vice versa), Liptak is actually quite guarded in drawing conclusions about which are better approaches. Our way of policing crimes is different from other places, he points out; what I got from him was that it's more interesting (and useful) to contemplate "Why?" and "To what end?" than to assess anyone as better or worse. Back in March, after the whole Obama-Wright brouhaha erupted, Terry spoke with several insiders in the field of Black Liberation Theology, the brand of sermonizing Wright was associated with before becoming something of his own brand. Far from offering an excuse for Wright's words, Dwight Hopkins (talking to Terry on March 31) did contextualize some of them, and provided intriguing insight into the religious and cultural roots of traditional black church sermons. I recommend both of these programs, and Fresh Air in general (subscribe to the Fresh Air podcast, or just listen to the pieces on history of Black Liberation Theology and comparative justice).
I make a point of decompressing my mind (figuratively, not literally) before going to sleep, and amusing bedtime reading is essential in that process. Lately I'd been plowing through a lot of cheesy fiction before hitting a cheesy-fiction wall; then the heavens opened and my inbox notified me that one of my several new book requests at the library had been fulfilled, after months of waiting. The Year of Living Biblically: One Man's Humble Quest to Follow the Bible as Literally as Possible is so amusing it's become not only bedtime reading but also start-the-morning-with-a-smile reading as well. In this non-fiction, diary-style book, A.J. Jacobs describes his one-year mission to live the rules of the Old and New Testaments as faithfully as is reasonable in modern times. Some rules were easy to adhere to (and contemplating them offers a nice cultural history lesson, plus a healthy dollop of appreciation for modern living); other rules however were virtually impossible to avoid breaking (and the author's descriptions of trying are some of the funniest moments of the book). The Year of Living Biblically does start a bit unevenly, but I think that once you get the gist of what he's doing and why, it's really quite a nice combo of enlightening and entertaining. Recommended to anyone interested in religion and modern life.
April 10, 2008
Deal with it
Too often research findings are intriguing but muddling. How often have you heard about a new study that makes you realize what you previously thought is in fact wrong? How are we supposed to deal with being told we're wrong, or worse, possibly wrong? I say go with door number 3.
Go play this online simulation game and test out your success with decision making using 2 goats as undesirables and 1 car as desired outcome. It's called a Monty Hall problem in honor of the Let's Make a Deal host (and his use of 3 doors, behind one of which is the best prize of all).
Now read this news story which explains how in a 3-choice situation where you've already made your decision, if you are shown one of the other 2 outcomes (and it's undesirable), then you will have better odds of getting what you wanted by switching to the last available option. The more you play, the closer you get to a statistical fact: You have a 66% chance of choosing the desired outcome by switching after being shown location of one undesired outcome.
Have you ever worked with someone who would not back down from their decision? Chances are you've done it yourself, too, even when you feel in your gut that it might not be the best option? Why after making decisions do we often tell ourselves, "I made the right choice. It just didn't work out this time," even when there is evidence to the contrary available? The answer: Because we want to feel good about ourselves in order to keep going each day. Plus, we aren't in the habit of looking for evidence to the contrary of our beliefs. We all just want to feel that we are OK, so we seek out or create justifications and affirmations of our decision. (Read more about the concepts of irrational escalation and cognitive dissonance.)
No big deal, right? This is fine when you're talking about the decision to buy a shirt that turned out to be really tacky (and you don't realize it till months later, after you've worn it in public countless times). But this is not fine when you're talking about bankrupting your family because you buy multiple tacky shirts and instead of adjusting your shopping habits and tastes based on inklings of a problem backed by outsiders' negative feedback, you just go out and buy more or different. There's a matter of scale.
Last year I attended a talk given by retired UCSC professor Elliott Aronson on the subject of his new book, Mistakes were made (but not by me): Why we justify foolish beliefs, bad decisions, and hurtful acts. Aronson, a social psychologist, always has amusingly thought provoking stories to share. In this case he and Carol Tavris were exploring the idea of sticking to decisions, even when faced with evidence that the decision was a bad one, and the very slippery slope of justifying behavior. While such behavior does have its tragic downside (and several chapters of this fascinating book detail the very scary consequences of ignoring counter-evidence), some amount of self-justification is a necessary and useful part of human nature.
Life Lesson 1
Alrighty then, escalation of commitment to bad choices is obviously not a good thing, but how are we to know we're doing it? Hint: Self awareness is a good thing. Another hint: Ignoring criticism and surrounding yourself with "Yes"-people is not a good thing. Maybe I didn't need this book to teach me that, but it's a provocative read and a good tool for self examination and improvement, which I think is another good thing.
Life Lesson 2
There is no way to always get the car; you're going to end up with a few goats. Deal with it, learn from it, move on. And don't forget to tell yourself, "I am OK," because, unless you are currently under attack by that goat behind door 2, it's true.
Go play this online simulation game and test out your success with decision making using 2 goats as undesirables and 1 car as desired outcome. It's called a Monty Hall problem in honor of the Let's Make a Deal host (and his use of 3 doors, behind one of which is the best prize of all).
Now read this news story which explains how in a 3-choice situation where you've already made your decision, if you are shown one of the other 2 outcomes (and it's undesirable), then you will have better odds of getting what you wanted by switching to the last available option. The more you play, the closer you get to a statistical fact: You have a 66% chance of choosing the desired outcome by switching after being shown location of one undesired outcome.
[W]hen you stick with Door 1, you’ll win only if your original choice was correct, which happens only 1 in 3 times on average. If you switch, you’ll win whenever your original choice was wrong, which happens 2 out of 3 times.Fascinating, right? The trouble is, the above three-door situation presents something of a false choice. In reality our choices are not all equal. Maybe we chose door number 1 because 1 is our lucky number; when shown that door 2 yields a bad outcome, changing away from 1 to 3 in order to get better odds is dependent upon the depth of my feelings toward both 1 and 3. Our real-life choices tend to be based on a long (and often undefined) list of desires and assumptions. Plus, the items behind the so-called door aren't necessarily static, but evolving and dependent upon their own complex set of decisions. So maybe the Monty Hall problem is just an entertaining mindgame to challenge our assumptions. At the same time, such research still illustrates the fact that committing to one choice isn't always the best way, even after being shown that an alternate path didn't work out (just because the other guy failed does not mean you have a 50-50 chance).
Have you ever worked with someone who would not back down from their decision? Chances are you've done it yourself, too, even when you feel in your gut that it might not be the best option? Why after making decisions do we often tell ourselves, "I made the right choice. It just didn't work out this time," even when there is evidence to the contrary available? The answer: Because we want to feel good about ourselves in order to keep going each day. Plus, we aren't in the habit of looking for evidence to the contrary of our beliefs. We all just want to feel that we are OK, so we seek out or create justifications and affirmations of our decision. (Read more about the concepts of irrational escalation and cognitive dissonance.)
No big deal, right? This is fine when you're talking about the decision to buy a shirt that turned out to be really tacky (and you don't realize it till months later, after you've worn it in public countless times). But this is not fine when you're talking about bankrupting your family because you buy multiple tacky shirts and instead of adjusting your shopping habits and tastes based on inklings of a problem backed by outsiders' negative feedback, you just go out and buy more or different. There's a matter of scale.
Last year I attended a talk given by retired UCSC professor Elliott Aronson on the subject of his new book, Mistakes were made (but not by me): Why we justify foolish beliefs, bad decisions, and hurtful acts. Aronson, a social psychologist, always has amusingly thought provoking stories to share. In this case he and Carol Tavris were exploring the idea of sticking to decisions, even when faced with evidence that the decision was a bad one, and the very slippery slope of justifying behavior. While such behavior does have its tragic downside (and several chapters of this fascinating book detail the very scary consequences of ignoring counter-evidence), some amount of self-justification is a necessary and useful part of human nature.
The mind wants to protect itself from the pain of dissonance with the balm of self-justification; but the soul wants to confess. To reduce dissonance, most of us put an enormous amount of mental and physical energy into protecting ourselves and propping up our self-esteem when it sags under the realization that we have been foolish, gullible, mistaken, corrupted, or otherwise human. And yet, much of the time, all this investment of energy is surprisingly unnecessary. (pp 216-217)I'll let you read the book yourself to find out why they argue this to be the case. In the meantime, here's the joke which opened the chapter:
A man travels many miles to consult the wisest guru in the land. When he arrives, he asks the wise man: "Oh, wise guru, what is the secret of a happy life?"The authors present some pointed political commentary and are clearly no fans of President Bush's executive management in Iraq and Afghanistan. But the fundamental lessons of Mistakes Were Made are not political at all and ought not be dismissed due to subject matter chosen for examples. (This review does a great job of pointing out the pros and cons of the book.) After all, no one is perfect. :)
"Good judgment," says the guru.
"But oh, wise guru," says the man, "how do I achieve good judgment?"
"Bad judgment," says the guru.
Life Lesson 1
Errors are inherent in baseball, as they are in medicine, business, science, law, love, and life. In the final analysis, the test of a nation's character, and of an individual's integrity, does not depend on being error free. It depends on what we do after making the error. (p 235)Amen to that.
Alrighty then, escalation of commitment to bad choices is obviously not a good thing, but how are we to know we're doing it? Hint: Self awareness is a good thing. Another hint: Ignoring criticism and surrounding yourself with "Yes"-people is not a good thing. Maybe I didn't need this book to teach me that, but it's a provocative read and a good tool for self examination and improvement, which I think is another good thing.
Life Lesson 2
There is no way to always get the car; you're going to end up with a few goats. Deal with it, learn from it, move on. And don't forget to tell yourself, "I am OK," because, unless you are currently under attack by that goat behind door 2, it's true.
March 31, 2008
Meaningful tangents
One thing I enjoy in big election years is when interesting and discussion-worthy topics come to the fore, bringing opportunities for regular folks to educate themselves and engage in thoughtful conversations. Alas such topics tend to arise as part of something being taken out of context and blown up into a near-scandal for CNN, MSNBC, and Fox News to bandy about, and the discussions people have are too often focused on who's right, who's wrong, and other superficialities. Still, I like that the possibility of thoughtful discussion rises with intriguing pseudo-scandals.
Today just such an opportunity was explored beautifully from WHYY/NPR's Fresh Air. The program featured several speakers describing, explaining, and contextualizing black churches and the person at the center of the Barack Obama-Jeremiah Wright debate. Absolutely fascinating. The second speaker, Dwight Hopkins, was particularly thought provoking in his comments. I highly recommend listening to the broadcast all the way through (about 40 minutes, as I recall), or reading more about the program. (You can also listen to Fresh Air episodes for free as a podcast using iTunes.)
You might have noticed my Change Congress label in the sidebar. This is part of a campaign led by law professor/free culture advocate/concerned citizen Lawrence Lessig which I encourage you all to get to know, and is another example of something good happening this election year. Lessig considered and then declined possibility of running for Congress here in the Bay Area, but he is still very much interested in making that elective body a better functioning, less money/influence-distorted than it currently is. What an idea, huh? I love it! Anyway, Lessig always gives interesting speeches, most of which are shown or discussed on his blog. A great intro to Lessig's signature presentation style and an all around interesting talk given recently can be viewed and commented on here.
Now go forth and educate. :)
Today just such an opportunity was explored beautifully from WHYY/NPR's Fresh Air. The program featured several speakers describing, explaining, and contextualizing black churches and the person at the center of the Barack Obama-Jeremiah Wright debate. Absolutely fascinating. The second speaker, Dwight Hopkins, was particularly thought provoking in his comments. I highly recommend listening to the broadcast all the way through (about 40 minutes, as I recall), or reading more about the program. (You can also listen to Fresh Air episodes for free as a podcast using iTunes.)
You might have noticed my Change Congress label in the sidebar. This is part of a campaign led by law professor/free culture advocate/concerned citizen Lawrence Lessig which I encourage you all to get to know, and is another example of something good happening this election year. Lessig considered and then declined possibility of running for Congress here in the Bay Area, but he is still very much interested in making that elective body a better functioning, less money/influence-distorted than it currently is. What an idea, huh? I love it! Anyway, Lessig always gives interesting speeches, most of which are shown or discussed on his blog. A great intro to Lessig's signature presentation style and an all around interesting talk given recently can be viewed and commented on here.
Now go forth and educate. :)
March 10, 2008
Traffic Jams
I love the Freakonomics blog and I love Scientific American Frontiers with Alan Alda. Today the two converged (cue heavenly light-and-sound show). Both have now discussed the cause of many needless traffic backups: the speeding and braking habits of stop-and-go drivers.
If someone driving in front of you brakes, most people tend to hit their brakes. Then the car behind brakes too, and this keeps going way back, until the slowdown is way behind the location of the original reason for braking. Basically, by braking in traffic you are perpetuating and probably extending a slow spot. The solution? As Alan Alda discovered nearly a decade ago and the Freakonomics guys reported on today, it's best for all concerned if drivers would maintain constant but slower speeds and not brake at every brake light in front of us. Try to always maintain a bit of distance in front of you (if someone cuts into the space, ease off gas a touch to create a distance again).
Change your driving habit to emphasize slow and steady instead of constantly accelerating and then having to brake. Take your foot off the accelerator to maintain or maximize the gap between you and car in front of you. You will get there just as quick, if not faster, your car will have less wear and tear, you'll be less frustrated, less likely to rear-end someone, less likely to be rear-ended, and you will not be contributing to pointless traffic jams. Sounds like an all around win. Now go spread the word!
In other news...
I was elated tonight to hear one of my fave bands, stellastarr*, played on a national commercial. Their song "My Coco" is used on an ad for the new Fox show The Return of Jezebel James, starring Parker Posey.
If someone driving in front of you brakes, most people tend to hit their brakes. Then the car behind brakes too, and this keeps going way back, until the slowdown is way behind the location of the original reason for braking. Basically, by braking in traffic you are perpetuating and probably extending a slow spot. The solution? As Alan Alda discovered nearly a decade ago and the Freakonomics guys reported on today, it's best for all concerned if drivers would maintain constant but slower speeds and not brake at every brake light in front of us. Try to always maintain a bit of distance in front of you (if someone cuts into the space, ease off gas a touch to create a distance again).
Change your driving habit to emphasize slow and steady instead of constantly accelerating and then having to brake. Take your foot off the accelerator to maintain or maximize the gap between you and car in front of you. You will get there just as quick, if not faster, your car will have less wear and tear, you'll be less frustrated, less likely to rear-end someone, less likely to be rear-ended, and you will not be contributing to pointless traffic jams. Sounds like an all around win. Now go spread the word!
In other news...
I was elated tonight to hear one of my fave bands, stellastarr*, played on a national commercial. Their song "My Coco" is used on an ad for the new Fox show The Return of Jezebel James, starring Parker Posey.
February 08, 2008
Titles
My Peculiar Aristocratic Title is:
Her Grace Lady Michelle the Talkative of Pigotts Sty,
Most Noble and Honourable the Prohibited of Withering Glance
For a random title generator, I think it did eerily well. Get your own peculiar aristocratic title.
Last night David and I huddled around the laptop to watch The King of Kong: A Fistful of Quarters on DVD (Why watching on a laptop? Because we are currently in possession of not one, but two non-functioning DVD players. Maybe Tomminy Tivo intimidates them?) Anyway, King of Kong starts off kind of slowly, and early on it just seems like a history of the arcade game variety of the Uber Geek species. But then it turns into a near-infuriating but compelling human drama centered on two men's claims to World Champion status on the game of Donkey Kong. And my description still doesn't do justice to the oddness of the flick. Naturally I recommend it.
February 01, 2008
Endorsements
By the title you might think I am going to head off on another political tirade. But you would be wrong. This is a consumer endorsement. And lest that statement make you wonder whether you've somehow begun reading another blog instead of mine, I would reassure you that you're safe with me.
Borrowing from the Bard...
I come not to bury occasional consumerism, but to praise it.
I often tirade against consumerism, but really what I loathe is blind consumerism or economic materialism--buying stuff because it's cheap and available, because you think it will make you happy, not because you need it. Those of us who call mainstream society home are encouraged through emotionally loaded advertising to believe we do indeed need lots of stuff. I am as susceptible as anyone to the clever marketing appeals (even people like me are marketed to, which cracks me up). What is an advertising-skeptical, wannabe back-to-nature type to do? Running away and hiding doesn't sound all that fun (I'd miss my family and my Tivo amusements, among other things to be named later). My solution is to consciously purchase products that are good quality, good for me, and do so in a minimalist way that I think is good for all of us. If you are a conscious shopper, too, then I have a few recommendations.
Some of the products I use and would recommend to others are commonly found. Egg Beaters can be used for a quick morning scramble--such as with Morningstar Farms vegetarian breakfast links--or used as the coating for French toast; my other breakfast fave is oatmeal, preferably using Bob's Red Mill thick rolled oats. For bubbly occasions I adore Martinelli's various sparkling ciders. Others of my favorites are not so easily located in stores, such as indulgences like Kodiak Cakes' Big Bear whole wheat brownie mix (someone agrees!) or Mother's Natural Peanut Butter Bumpers cereal. I'm terribly sad when a product I love disappears (such as happened with Veggie Pockets, made by the Hot Pockets people). Thankfully I am rewarded on occasion when good natural products gain a foothold in grocery stores everywhere, such as happened with natural peanut butters (Smucker's even make a handy stirrer now!) or the Annie's line of mac-n-cheese (check out the Shells & Alfredo or for a real throwback-to-childhood treat, the Bernie O's).
But I posted today to share my endorsement of a dishwasher detergent: Cascade 2-in-1 Action Packs with Dawn. I've read reviews that point to the expense, the need to handle them with dry fingers (this technology actually won an award), and inability to measure out smaller loads (it's one size fits all), but the cleaning power is never disputed. These suckers give me a clean dishload like no other detergent I've used. And since I am a sale-coupon combo shopper, and I always wait for a full load anyway, the price was not an issue for my initial 90-pack tub. You might point out that I was manipulated into buying in the first place (ads and coupons are quite timed, I realize), but the end result in this case was discovering a product that works extremely well. That is a good reason for product loyalty, IMHO. Love it!
So my end message is reminiscent of the adage to students about studying smarter not harder. Don't buy bigger, buy better. Or maybe it works better this way: It's not how much you buy, but how well you buy. Clearly marketing isn't my thing. :)
P.S. Check out this fascinating article on product loyalty entitled, "Consumers mistake familiarity with superiority". And if you've never heard of the anti-commercialism group AdBusters, then go check 'em out now. The spoof ads are worth viewing, even if you don't agree with the group's agenda. And finally, I encourage you to contemplate simple living.
Borrowing from the Bard...
I come not to bury occasional consumerism, but to praise it.
I often tirade against consumerism, but really what I loathe is blind consumerism or economic materialism--buying stuff because it's cheap and available, because you think it will make you happy, not because you need it. Those of us who call mainstream society home are encouraged through emotionally loaded advertising to believe we do indeed need lots of stuff. I am as susceptible as anyone to the clever marketing appeals (even people like me are marketed to, which cracks me up). What is an advertising-skeptical, wannabe back-to-nature type to do? Running away and hiding doesn't sound all that fun (I'd miss my family and my Tivo amusements, among other things to be named later). My solution is to consciously purchase products that are good quality, good for me, and do so in a minimalist way that I think is good for all of us. If you are a conscious shopper, too, then I have a few recommendations.
Some of the products I use and would recommend to others are commonly found. Egg Beaters can be used for a quick morning scramble--such as with Morningstar Farms vegetarian breakfast links--or used as the coating for French toast; my other breakfast fave is oatmeal, preferably using Bob's Red Mill thick rolled oats. For bubbly occasions I adore Martinelli's various sparkling ciders. Others of my favorites are not so easily located in stores, such as indulgences like Kodiak Cakes' Big Bear whole wheat brownie mix (someone agrees!) or Mother's Natural Peanut Butter Bumpers cereal. I'm terribly sad when a product I love disappears (such as happened with Veggie Pockets, made by the Hot Pockets people). Thankfully I am rewarded on occasion when good natural products gain a foothold in grocery stores everywhere, such as happened with natural peanut butters (Smucker's even make a handy stirrer now!) or the Annie's line of mac-n-cheese (check out the Shells & Alfredo or for a real throwback-to-childhood treat, the Bernie O's).
But I posted today to share my endorsement of a dishwasher detergent: Cascade 2-in-1 Action Packs with Dawn. I've read reviews that point to the expense, the need to handle them with dry fingers (this technology actually won an award), and inability to measure out smaller loads (it's one size fits all), but the cleaning power is never disputed. These suckers give me a clean dishload like no other detergent I've used. And since I am a sale-coupon combo shopper, and I always wait for a full load anyway, the price was not an issue for my initial 90-pack tub. You might point out that I was manipulated into buying in the first place (ads and coupons are quite timed, I realize), but the end result in this case was discovering a product that works extremely well. That is a good reason for product loyalty, IMHO. Love it!
So my end message is reminiscent of the adage to students about studying smarter not harder. Don't buy bigger, buy better. Or maybe it works better this way: It's not how much you buy, but how well you buy. Clearly marketing isn't my thing. :)
P.S. Check out this fascinating article on product loyalty entitled, "Consumers mistake familiarity with superiority". And if you've never heard of the anti-commercialism group AdBusters, then go check 'em out now. The spoof ads are worth viewing, even if you don't agree with the group's agenda. And finally, I encourage you to contemplate simple living.
January 20, 2008
Seconds
Luckily for me, coming in second place has never lessened the value of something I truly value and enjoy. (A particularly useful sentiment for a second-born child, eh?)
I've spent some time recently volunteering for the Barack Obama campaign, calling into Nevada to check on likely caucus participation. You probably saw how that turned out. But did you know that in the end, Clinton could come away with 1 fewer national delegate from Nevada than Obama? Yet another lesson in not declaring victory before the work (of war, an election, etc.) is truly over.
As someone who rarely gets in on the first round of anything, I appreciate that some things get better with time (yes, this is undoubtedly self serving). As a child of the 70's and 80's, I grew up on music of the 60's and 70's, possibly the best era for proving that good music stands the test of time. My habit of finding beloved tunes after the initial frenzy died down continues well into adulthood. I developed a little obsession with the band The Killers at least a year after their song "Somebody Told Me" saturated the alt rock/pop airwaves. Apparently no one told me. I've "discovered" a number of fantastic albums recently, all of which were released two or more years ago. Where have I been? Off happily catching up on music a few years older, no doubt.
Second hand does save money. I am one of the multitude who rarely goes to the movie theater anymore, saving myself mucho dinero. With rare exceptions, I find most of my film satisfaction in the comfort of my own home for 17 bucks a month (I love you, Netflix). Apart from the occasional impatience this brings when I miss in theaters a highly touted movie months away from DVD release (though the theater-to-disc release span is decreasing), this is an excellent deal. So why treat these second-release flicks like secondhand citizens when it comes to my movie reviews? A terrible oversight on my part. Here you go...
Recommended Rentals
Foreign
* My Best Friend is a cute-but-awkward French buddy movie starring veteran actor Daniel Auteuil.
* Once is a sweet Dublin-based film featuring good folksy tunes throughout, written and performed by the two leads.
* Tipping the Velvet, based on a novel about lesbianism in Victorian England, is a fantastic quirky modern costume drama which aired on the (obviously not US-ratings board controlled) BBC.
Documentaries
Note--each of these domestic docs caught my eye but has its flaws and frustrations
* Jesus Camp is about young Evangelical Christians in the Heartland. Left me depressed, which was surprising, because usually religious freedom is a big thing for me. But people are presented without much outside commentary, which I liked.
* Boys of Baraka relates the experiences of inner city Baltimore boys sent to Kenya for 2 years of boarding school. Left me wanting to learn more about the school, though not necessarily in support of it. Made by the same women who made Jesus Camp (a fact I only just now realized).
* No End in Sight focuses rather pointedly on Bush's 2003 invasion of Iraq. Newsy, provocative telling of a frustrating, tragic series of events.
Thrillers
Note--these two are fine, but not great.
* The Lookout is the story of a brain-injured rich kid who attempts to put his life back together by falling in with some shady new friends. (Side note: star Joseph Gordon-Levitt looked to me so much like Heath Ledger it was creepy.)
* Breach was interesting, more for its insight into Robert Hanssen spy case than anything else. One great thing about DVD format is possibility of including extras; this one offers 60 Minutes piece about Hanssen.
And lastly, there are several television shows which I catch the second time around simply because it's impossible for me, living in the US, not to (well, legally). PBS or SciFi channel might have introduced you to the following, which are available on DVD:
* Doctor Who is an oft-cheesy British sci fi show with a long history. At home you can read up online for backstories to fill in what you don't understand.
* The Vicar of Dibley is a 1990's British sitcom about a single, chocoholic female vicar serving in a small town populated by oddball characters. After regular series ended, several special episodes got made, such as the Dec 2006 show where vicar gets married.
I've spent some time recently volunteering for the Barack Obama campaign, calling into Nevada to check on likely caucus participation. You probably saw how that turned out. But did you know that in the end, Clinton could come away with 1 fewer national delegate from Nevada than Obama? Yet another lesson in not declaring victory before the work (of war, an election, etc.) is truly over.
As someone who rarely gets in on the first round of anything, I appreciate that some things get better with time (yes, this is undoubtedly self serving). As a child of the 70's and 80's, I grew up on music of the 60's and 70's, possibly the best era for proving that good music stands the test of time. My habit of finding beloved tunes after the initial frenzy died down continues well into adulthood. I developed a little obsession with the band The Killers at least a year after their song "Somebody Told Me" saturated the alt rock/pop airwaves. Apparently no one told me. I've "discovered" a number of fantastic albums recently, all of which were released two or more years ago. Where have I been? Off happily catching up on music a few years older, no doubt.
Second hand does save money. I am one of the multitude who rarely goes to the movie theater anymore, saving myself mucho dinero. With rare exceptions, I find most of my film satisfaction in the comfort of my own home for 17 bucks a month (I love you, Netflix). Apart from the occasional impatience this brings when I miss in theaters a highly touted movie months away from DVD release (though the theater-to-disc release span is decreasing), this is an excellent deal. So why treat these second-release flicks like secondhand citizens when it comes to my movie reviews? A terrible oversight on my part. Here you go...
Recommended Rentals
Foreign
* My Best Friend is a cute-but-awkward French buddy movie starring veteran actor Daniel Auteuil.
* Once is a sweet Dublin-based film featuring good folksy tunes throughout, written and performed by the two leads.
* Tipping the Velvet, based on a novel about lesbianism in Victorian England, is a fantastic quirky modern costume drama which aired on the (obviously not US-ratings board controlled) BBC.
Documentaries
Note--each of these domestic docs caught my eye but has its flaws and frustrations
* Jesus Camp is about young Evangelical Christians in the Heartland. Left me depressed, which was surprising, because usually religious freedom is a big thing for me. But people are presented without much outside commentary, which I liked.
* Boys of Baraka relates the experiences of inner city Baltimore boys sent to Kenya for 2 years of boarding school. Left me wanting to learn more about the school, though not necessarily in support of it. Made by the same women who made Jesus Camp (a fact I only just now realized).
* No End in Sight focuses rather pointedly on Bush's 2003 invasion of Iraq. Newsy, provocative telling of a frustrating, tragic series of events.
Thrillers
Note--these two are fine, but not great.
* The Lookout is the story of a brain-injured rich kid who attempts to put his life back together by falling in with some shady new friends. (Side note: star Joseph Gordon-Levitt looked to me so much like Heath Ledger it was creepy.)
* Breach was interesting, more for its insight into Robert Hanssen spy case than anything else. One great thing about DVD format is possibility of including extras; this one offers 60 Minutes piece about Hanssen.
And lastly, there are several television shows which I catch the second time around simply because it's impossible for me, living in the US, not to (well, legally). PBS or SciFi channel might have introduced you to the following, which are available on DVD:
* Doctor Who is an oft-cheesy British sci fi show with a long history. At home you can read up online for backstories to fill in what you don't understand.
* The Vicar of Dibley is a 1990's British sitcom about a single, chocoholic female vicar serving in a small town populated by oddball characters. After regular series ended, several special episodes got made, such as the Dec 2006 show where vicar gets married.
November 28, 2007
Free the rice
Next time you are looking for something to do on the web, check out the simple to use, free vocabulary quiz FreeRice. It may feel like test prep all over again but this time the stakes are higher, so check your answers before submitting. Each correct answer generates a donation of 20 grains of rice. Read more about the project or just go play. (And if you need help, that's what a dictionary is for.) Thanks to Lisa for pointing out this webgem.
Nov 30 update: Apparently I am de rigeur (and you can be too!). The latest issue of Rolling Stone listed the FreeRice site in its what's hot on the Internet section.
Nov 30 update: Apparently I am de rigeur (and you can be too!). The latest issue of Rolling Stone listed the FreeRice site in its what's hot on the Internet section.
November 23, 2007
Thanksgiving
November brings thoughts of politics and thankfulness, not usually in the same moment. But today I am feeling thankful for the opportunity we in the U.S. have each day to express ourselves and our political views, no matter how in or out of the mainstream we may be. Why so patriotic? I discovered yet another wacky political website, natch.
Irregular Times discusses current events through a fairly spirited progressive/anti-establishment political lens. They refer to themselves as "Progressive Patriots". Their merchandising arm, Irregular Goods offers bumper stickers, t-shirts ("I am Barack" Obama says, while Bush states, "I am an island"--take a look; do you get the reference?), and even underwear with political messages.
The thing that drew my attention today was their holiday stuff (I am engaged in my annual find-the-perfect-year-end-message card hunt). I didn't find the right card but I did spot a holiday tree ornament which reads "Peace on Earth is not just for the holidays" and a holiday card clarifying that "the solstice is the reason for the season". Fabulous!
Irregular Times discusses current events through a fairly spirited progressive/anti-establishment political lens. They refer to themselves as "Progressive Patriots". Their merchandising arm, Irregular Goods offers bumper stickers, t-shirts ("I am Barack" Obama says, while Bush states, "I am an island"--take a look; do you get the reference?), and even underwear with political messages.
The thing that drew my attention today was their holiday stuff (I am engaged in my annual find-the-perfect-year-end-message card hunt). I didn't find the right card but I did spot a holiday tree ornament which reads "Peace on Earth is not just for the holidays" and a holiday card clarifying that "the solstice is the reason for the season". Fabulous!
November 11, 2007
Bizarre
I'd already tracked down the quote below, which is quite worthy of being shared regardless, when I forgot why fate was to be tied to bizarreness (real word, I checked). It was a brilliant thread, no doubt, but it is lost. And so I ask a bit of patience with my all-over-the-mapness in today's posting. Many thanks. :)
I was introduced recently by Last.fm to a band whose style is alternately labeled indie, alternative, punk, folk, psychedelic, progressive rock. Black Mountain are compared to Velvet Underground, Neil Young, and early Pink Floyd. After listening to a few of their songs I'd say it can be wrapped up as stoner music (which you need not be stoned to enjoy, as I can attest). It's a throwback to 70's album rock. Recommended.
Based on a recommendation from someone (I don't even recall who; things do linger on my wishlists for years), I put Tangerinephant on my Amazon wishlist. Amazon now thinks I might like to read The Haunted Vagina (you read that right) by Carlton Mellick (author of, among other "bizarro fiction", Satan Burger and Razor Wire Pubic Hair). "It's difficult to love a woman whose vagina is a gateway to the world of the dead," declares the book summary for The Haunted Vagina. Before you go all "What?!" on me for seriously contemplating this recommendation, consider that the book is described by one Amazon reviewer as "an exploration of the female body and the power it can hold over men (figuratively and literally)". Is it fated that I read such a book?
Last night we watched The Amazing Mrs. Pritchard, about a regular person who runs on her own Purple Alliance platform for British Parliament and becomes Prime Minister based on little more than a desire for change. It's a political fantasy that does a passable job of portraying the realities which would surely come with a dream come to life. I like to dream, but I do enjoy reality more. As fortune would have it, this morning in the newspaper came news of the "There Oughta Be a Law" initiative by California state senator Joe Simitian. If you live in California and have an idea for legislation, go to Senator Simitian's webpage and submit it. In the six years he's hosted this contest, 11 citizen-initiated bills have been signed into law.
Finally, from A Room With a View by E.M. Forster comes this conversation between Reverend Beebe and young George Emerson:
Don't say I give you nothing to think about when you read my blog. :)
I was introduced recently by Last.fm to a band whose style is alternately labeled indie, alternative, punk, folk, psychedelic, progressive rock. Black Mountain are compared to Velvet Underground, Neil Young, and early Pink Floyd. After listening to a few of their songs I'd say it can be wrapped up as stoner music (which you need not be stoned to enjoy, as I can attest). It's a throwback to 70's album rock. Recommended.
Based on a recommendation from someone (I don't even recall who; things do linger on my wishlists for years), I put Tangerinephant on my Amazon wishlist. Amazon now thinks I might like to read The Haunted Vagina (you read that right) by Carlton Mellick (author of, among other "bizarro fiction", Satan Burger and Razor Wire Pubic Hair). "It's difficult to love a woman whose vagina is a gateway to the world of the dead," declares the book summary for The Haunted Vagina. Before you go all "What?!" on me for seriously contemplating this recommendation, consider that the book is described by one Amazon reviewer as "an exploration of the female body and the power it can hold over men (figuratively and literally)". Is it fated that I read such a book?
Last night we watched The Amazing Mrs. Pritchard, about a regular person who runs on her own Purple Alliance platform for British Parliament and becomes Prime Minister based on little more than a desire for change. It's a political fantasy that does a passable job of portraying the realities which would surely come with a dream come to life. I like to dream, but I do enjoy reality more. As fortune would have it, this morning in the newspaper came news of the "There Oughta Be a Law" initiative by California state senator Joe Simitian. If you live in California and have an idea for legislation, go to Senator Simitian's webpage and submit it. In the six years he's hosted this contest, 11 citizen-initiated bills have been signed into law.
Finally, from A Room With a View by E.M. Forster comes this conversation between Reverend Beebe and young George Emerson:
"[C]oincidences are much rarer than we suppose. For example, it isn't purely coincidentally that you are here now, when one comes to reflect."
To his relief, George began to talk. "It is. I have reflected. It is Fate. Everything is Fate. We are flung together by Fate, drawn apart by Fate--flung together, drawn apart. The twelve winds blow us--we settle nothing--"
"You have not reflected at all," rapped the clergyman. "Let me give you a useful tip, Emerson: attribute nothing to Fate. Don't say, 'I didn't do this,' for you did it, ten to one. Now I'll cross-question you. Where did you first meet Miss Honeychurch and myself?"
"Italy."
"And where did you meet Mr. Vyse, who is going to marry Miss Honeychurch?"
"National Gallery."
"Looking at Italian art. There you are, and yet you talk of coincidence and Fate. You naturally seek out things Italian, and so do we and our friends. This narrows the field immeasurably we meet again in it."
"It is Fate that I am here," persisted George. "But you can call it Italy if it makes you less unhappy."
Don't say I give you nothing to think about when you read my blog. :)
October 15, 2007
Lefties
Random quick amusement...
Courtesy of the Freakonomics blog comes a left-brain, right-brain (aka lateralization of function) check: Which direction do you see this dancer moving, clockwise or counterclockwise? Can you eventually see it going either direction? I alas have thus far been unable to change my direction (can you guess which it is?). Give it a try.
Movie review: The Kingdom
Starring Jamie Foxx, Jennifer Garner, Chris Cooper, and Jason Bateman, The Kingdom is about a team of FBI agents who travel to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in order to investigate a series of attacks on an American facility there. The team, led by Foxx, has a tough time gaining approval in Washington and must pull strings to get 5 days on the ground. On the scene they face intermittent bureacratic stonewalling, a skeptical local police babysitter, and a few significant gunfights with locals. In the end the lesson is about the similarities among us (though not necessarily in the way you might imagine).
The film's pace is good, location filming (albeit in UAE) lends authenticity, and there are sufficient comic and action moments to prevent any drag. I had a few complaints, most notably the inclusion of an emotionally understandable but implausbily unprofessional desire for vengeance imbued in the characters. The female team member never covers her head, most notably when venturing out into neighborhoods (um, is it not a bit odd, to make no concession whatsoever to local custom thereby sticking out like a sore thumb when you want to find clues to a sensitive crime?). These are supposed to be high level trained professionals in forensics, bomb detection, etc, yet they don't always act like it. Bateman's character--nominally an analyst--is present only for laughs. Fortunately, these easily remedied/explained quibbles do not influence the significant events of the movie.
Overall The Kingdom is a decent popcorn action flick and will appeal to most audiences (yes, it's got violence, but there is a point to the story, for which I am appreciative). Whether you want to see this movie or not, I do recommend the opening credits, which offer a stylish, concise history of modern Saudi Arabia and US relations there. And for a fuller treatment, I highly recommend the Frontline documentary House of Saud, from which some of the narration for The Kingdom's opening was borrowed.
Courtesy of the Freakonomics blog comes a left-brain, right-brain (aka lateralization of function) check: Which direction do you see this dancer moving, clockwise or counterclockwise? Can you eventually see it going either direction? I alas have thus far been unable to change my direction (can you guess which it is?). Give it a try.
Movie review: The Kingdom
Starring Jamie Foxx, Jennifer Garner, Chris Cooper, and Jason Bateman, The Kingdom is about a team of FBI agents who travel to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in order to investigate a series of attacks on an American facility there. The team, led by Foxx, has a tough time gaining approval in Washington and must pull strings to get 5 days on the ground. On the scene they face intermittent bureacratic stonewalling, a skeptical local police babysitter, and a few significant gunfights with locals. In the end the lesson is about the similarities among us (though not necessarily in the way you might imagine).
The film's pace is good, location filming (albeit in UAE) lends authenticity, and there are sufficient comic and action moments to prevent any drag. I had a few complaints, most notably the inclusion of an emotionally understandable but implausbily unprofessional desire for vengeance imbued in the characters. The female team member never covers her head, most notably when venturing out into neighborhoods (um, is it not a bit odd, to make no concession whatsoever to local custom thereby sticking out like a sore thumb when you want to find clues to a sensitive crime?). These are supposed to be high level trained professionals in forensics, bomb detection, etc, yet they don't always act like it. Bateman's character--nominally an analyst--is present only for laughs. Fortunately, these easily remedied/explained quibbles do not influence the significant events of the movie.
Overall The Kingdom is a decent popcorn action flick and will appeal to most audiences (yes, it's got violence, but there is a point to the story, for which I am appreciative). Whether you want to see this movie or not, I do recommend the opening credits, which offer a stylish, concise history of modern Saudi Arabia and US relations there. And for a fuller treatment, I highly recommend the Frontline documentary House of Saud, from which some of the narration for The Kingdom's opening was borrowed.
September 07, 2007
Undisciplined
Here's what's going on in my life, for those who want to know...
No, I've not yet found a job. (I won't say "Not that you've asked, but..." because, yes, you have asked. I thank you for your concern and well wishes.) I have submitted resumes for various positions in the Bay Area for which I am eminently qualified. I've heard back from two, one before I left Houston (was very encouraging, then...nothing) and the other a standard "You're nice, but no thanks" reply. I need to work my contacts to get in with organizations. I'm not comfortable with schmoozing and working people, thus I am not a good networker, and I need to be. I always like having something to work on.
No, I've not yet finished resizing pics from my recent travels in order to post them here. Believe me, I am more sorry about this than you are. Must do, must do, must....
In the meantime, I have indulged in some delightful amusements which I would like to recommend.
No, I've not yet found a job. (I won't say "Not that you've asked, but..." because, yes, you have asked. I thank you for your concern and well wishes.) I have submitted resumes for various positions in the Bay Area for which I am eminently qualified. I've heard back from two, one before I left Houston (was very encouraging, then...nothing) and the other a standard "You're nice, but no thanks" reply. I need to work my contacts to get in with organizations. I'm not comfortable with schmoozing and working people, thus I am not a good networker, and I need to be. I always like having something to work on.
No, I've not yet finished resizing pics from my recent travels in order to post them here. Believe me, I am more sorry about this than you are. Must do, must do, must....
In the meantime, I have indulged in some delightful amusements which I would like to recommend.
- Little Children by Tom Perrotta is a riveting novel about life in suburbia among restless stay-at-home adults. It was turned into a movie last year, and I look forward to watching it, but I suspect book is better.
- On DVD now is the movie version of another book, this time a nonfiction piece about Northern California's own Zodiac killer. The movie Zodiac stars Jake Gyllenhaal, Mark Ruffalo, and Robert Downey, Jr., in a good dramatization of the seemingly random series of killings begun in 1968, as recounted by Robert Graysmith in his two books on the subject.
- If you've not yet seen The Bourne Supremacy, go to it. Yet another book based on movie, though I'd guess this is the loosest translation of the bunch. The movie is action packed and just suspenseful enough to keep you entertained throughout. Come on, do we ever think Jason Bourne is really in jeopardy? The Bourne movies are all about seeing how he will manage the latest onslaught of bad guys (he's extremely good at it). And no, you don't need to recall what happened in previous 2 films to understand this one.
- If you're in the mood for something more fantastical and sorta sweet, go see the movie Stardust, based on book by Neil Gaiman. It's a romantic fantasy that David described as incredibly cheesy, and yet he smiled all the way through it. Claire Danes' character is a tad grating, but the male lead is adorable and Michelle Pfeiffer plays wicked with glee. Memories of the goat guy still brings me a chuckle.
- Finally, in music I highly recommend The New Pornographers to alternative/indie pop music fans. Unfortunate name if you are a timid listener, but the music is definitely not from the adult film industry and it is often just heavenly. A former obsession of mine, alt country singer Neko Case, is one member of the oft-changing lineup of musicians associated with the band. TNP might be old news to many music fans, but I am slow to find new music these days and tend to fixate for a long while before seeking anything different. Anyway, I recommend their album Challengers. Naturally TNP will be playing in SF when I am in Houston. Virginia, you must keep me very entertained that evening so I will not think about it. (The perfect night to get started on your 30 Things to do list!)
March 31, 2007
Details
I've mentioned before that Zippy seems to get me, as in we are kindred spirits. Today's is a good example (click on picture to enlarge). It's titled "Where God Is" and Zippy's final comment is "Details, details." Given the time of year (Passover, Lent, Palm Sunday) I thought this cartoon appropriate. But then, given my predilection for all things lovingly sacrilegious, my judgment might be considered questionable.Speaking of sacrilege, it is time once again to recommend to you Christopher Moore's Lamb. If you have any sense of humor about Christianity then it's a must read, a genuinely laugh-out-loud experience. Here's a good overview of the book with a few funny quotes included.
February 01, 2007
Farewell
Yesterday saw the passing of fabulously truth stirring Texas liberal columnist Molly Ivins. If you're not familiar with Ms. Ivins, then you owe it to yourself to read some of her work; even if you disagree with her, it'll get you thinking in a way that will hurt no one. The Nation has posted some lovely farewell pieces, and of course there are old columns of hers for you to read on the web (including a 2006 piece where she criticized the Democratic Party). Or you could read her last column about the troop surge decision. Possibly the best way to get to know Molly Ivins quickly is to read some of her quotes (and more quotes). Here's a sampling--Enjoy.
What stuns me most about contemporary politics is not even that the system has been so badly corrupted by money. It is that so few people get the connection between their lives and what the bozos do in Washington and our state capitols. Politics is not a picture on a wall or a television sitcom that you can decide you don't much care for.
Good thing we've still got politics in Texas - finest form of free entertainment ever invented.
I am not anti-gun. I'm pro-knife. Consider the merits of the knife. In the first place, you have to catch up with someone in order to stab him. A general substitution of knives for guns would promote physical fitness. We'd turn into a whole nation of great runners. Plus, knives don't ricochet. And people are seldom killed while cleaning their knives.Amen to that.
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