Rule 311: Don’t Choose TV over Relationships (Chuck vs. Book Club)

So, I have a gathering to attend tonight that will involve scintillating conversation and developing deeper relationships with some of my friends. Normally, I would be beyond excited about getting together with these ladies. But there is one thing that is stymieing my joy. Tonight is the premiere of Chuck, along with the airing of a new Heroes episode. So the universe (or NBC) is forcing me to choose between my girl pals and the invaluable entertainment of new episodes. I know what I should do, what I really want to do most, but that does not mean that I won’t be a little distracted at the get together. Most likely this will lead to the following conversation:

“So Laura, how was your week?”

“Well, not as bad as Claire Bennett’s. You?”

“Mine was good. Though I am a little stressed about work.”

“Oh, that’s too bad. But look on the bright side, at least you aren’t a highly intelligent, talented guy forced to work at BuyMore and face life threatening espionage on a weekly basis. Right?

Rule #163: Appreciate Autumn

Here is a list of things that will make the Stacy’s and everyone else happy for the next three months:

1. The Food: Soups (back from summer banishment), Gingerbread, Candy Corn (you know you love the way the sugar makes your teeth hurt), all things apple, the stuffing part of a Thanksgiving feast, etc.

2. The Tube: Television is finally back with new episodes, which after last year’s lame half season of shows is even more exciting this year. Football is on almost every day, though for me that really just means I don’t have to spar with Andrew for computer time and I get more opportunities to curl up with a book.

3. The Weather: Those of us that live in the south have been listlessly moving through months of oppressive heat, sweat, and sun that threaten anyone’s appreciation of the outdoors. Now, as breezes pick up and the temperatures cool we can enjoy being outside once again (and I can quit cursing every time I walk out my front door).

4. The Scenery: Good thing we can be outside again because now we get the chance to enjoy some beautiful changes in the colors around us. Plus, we can feel and hear the crunch of leaves underfoot. There is something about that sound, combined with the more crisp, less humid air that makes me nostalgic and sentimental every year- I love it!

5. The Clothes: The truth is that I rock a turtleneck and jeans much better than a sundress and flip-flops, so fall is always welcome in my closet! But even if you don’t like the way a turtleneck makes you look, who can resist fleece pullovers and cords?

6. The Activities: It seems that summer has everyone going their separate ways, while fall brings us all back together with holidays, community festivals, and tailgate parties. There is a general anticipation of fellowship and entertainments that is missing the rest of the year.

So, here’s to you Fall!

Rule #82: Check your mirrors...

Granted, Laura hasn't had a garage for about a year now, so she is a bit out of practice. Last week, she was heading over to some friend's house so I bid her goodbye and went upstairs to check e-mail.

All of a sudden, I hear (and feel) a terrible crashing noise in the garage below me. I run downstairs and it appears as though Laura thought her car should be a little narrower because she shaved off the passenger side-view mirror via the side of the garage. There it lay, the mirror, in pieces on the driveway.

Good thing she's been substituting at school. That's gonna cost us.

Love you, buddy.