Just the facts

I’ve rediscovered public radio by accident. A such, I’ve heard a lot of quotes from politicians and activists lately. I’ve also rediscovered that people don’t know what a fact is, and when to use it.

When you start a sentence with “The facts is…”, I will stop listening to you so I don’t hear when you continue with “…I believe that…” A fact about your belief is as important as a non-expert’s opinion. Just say you believe something. Don’t treat it like a fact.

It was somewhat refreshing to hear Attorney General Gonzalez testify this morning because he did not mix his recollections or opinions with facts. At least he kept the dignity of the word.

Tulip trip

Joe and Lindsay joined us on our first trip back up to Bellingham with Ella this past weekend. It was Ella’s first 5 hour car trip (excluding the snowy return from Yakima via Umatilla at christmas). We all went to visit friends and see the tulips in Skagit county, but mostly to see friends. Ella had already seen the tulips at Woodburn with my parents, but she still seems to have enjoyed them.

The drive back was a little rougher and Joe and Lindsay distracted Ella from what appears too be teething pains. Ella’s friend Nathan already has his bottom teeth, so it’s only a matter of time before gums give way to pearls. Danger pearls.

Farewell, Vonnegut

I’ve read precious little for enjoyment in the last decade. Of what I have read, Vonnegut has been my greatest source of enjoyment, thrill, contemplation and absurd laughter. I’m saddened to hear of Kurt’s Death, but I’ve had some practice. (have to use the Indianapolis link..) I first heard of his death about 5 years ago. So I was surprised to read a posthumous essay of his then see him on the Daily Show. So now I’m prepared.

Vonnegut’s writing was a great source of comfort. It is dark, insightful, and hilarious. The only attempt I know of to put it on the silver screen (Breakfast of Champions) fell short of his art. One of the things that impressed me so much about his writing was his ability so say so much with so few words. Vonnegut’s books are rather short, but he’s a master of succinctness without loosing any content, any idea, or any joke to efficiency.

God’s speed.

Lull

The lull is from too much, not too little. Michelle has accepted a new job, Ella started her swim classes (see flickr pics), Hung out with friends, rode 30 miles, had Easter dinner with family, and have been working too much.

Almost Famous

This saturday, Michelle, Barley, Ella and I walked down to Healthy Pets Northwest to get the old man some more food. When we arrived, we had learned that the brand of food he had (but not the same type) had been recalled, so the owner wasn’t going to carry it anymore. She gave us a few different samples to try with Barley, many of which were made in the area and cost about the same. We also learned that a local news station was on their way to interview her and wanted to know if a pet owner would also mind being interviewed. Michelle volunteered me somehow.

The reporter and cameraman from Koin arrived and did a small interview with me (if I remember correctly) and shot a fair amount of footage of Barley. We’ve always felt he was a handsome dog, so we were certain he’d make it past the editors. We weren’t so sure about me, in my worn out long underwear and t-shirt.

That night at 11, Barley made his debut. For 2.5 seconds. That’s all. I was pleased to have been cut since it felt weird to talk about something you don’t know much or care too much about. But then a friend up in Bellingham said that she saw me on the news there. It’s kind of weird to think about local coverage being offered up to other affiliates, though then you get personal interviews and don’t have to worry about is communicated through the editing process.

My Little Surfer Girl

This morning I was trying to keep Ella entertained while packing a lunch and finishing up some chores, so I tried singing to her. That usually works. What came to my mind? The Beach Boys. I know… I was a little surprised too. But somehow I remember the lyrics, which is mildly embarassing to admit. The only song lyrics I can recall with any reliability are from my childhood. Ella seemed to enjoy it though, especially the high-pitched “Surfer Girl” stuff.

7mo

Ella is now 7 months old. She’s on the verge of becoming mobile, eating foods, and is just a constant source of amazement to us. She’s completely in love with her mom right now, and when I’m holding her, she’s like a little compass, always spinning to point at Michelle. I’m not sure how she’s changed so much in so little time, but it has been quite a journey watching her make so many firsts, then to simply add those firsts to her repertoire like she’d always been able to roll over, manipulate toys, eat food, pull hair out by the roots.

My last final exam is today then I’ll be done with classes. Just in time to childproof.

Big day at the vet

Barley rests upYesterday Barley had a mast cell tumor removed from his right ear. The procedure required that he be anesthetized, so he also got his teeth clean and nails trimmed. He’s still a bit groggy this morning, but last night he was a big, helpless dope. The vet did a nice job of removing the tumor without leaving a permanent hole in his ear (on of his cutest and softest parts), but we’ll have to wait to see how it heals.

Tigger also received some news. He’s in renal failure and has hyperthyroid. I made some comment about testing positive for evil, but it turns out they don’t screen for that unless you request it. Bets are now on as to how long he’ll last, but we’re pretty sure he’s been in this state of shutdown for roughly 2 years, so in maybe another 2 he’ll be hittin’ the ol’ dusty trail.