Playing Catch Up

I know I haven't been here in a couple of weeks. Things have been pretty hectic around the casa. There have been a number of issues that have made my dedication to this forum lag a bit. It's not that I haven't wanted to post, it's just that, like everyone, sometimes things get pushed down the priority list. That doesn't mean I haven't been paying attention to what's been going on. Here then, are a few random thoughts.

People have been asking for an update on the self imposed Halloween home decorating death match that I am engaged in with my unsuspecting neighbors. So far, so good. I suspect that some of my fellow subdivision dwellers have started reading this, because this year, a few have elevated their games. I still have the scariest decorations and the most abundant display, but there are still a few days left until the big event. I'm keeping one secret to unveil in the final hours. One of the local news stations has been running a nightly feature on the most elaborately decorated homes, and I've come to the conclusion that I am not the craziest person in the world. Some of theses homes take weeks to decorate, have multiple electronic displays, ghouls, ghosts and gore galore and even FM radio broadcast capability. Suddenly I seem downright tame. I hope none of these nuts ever moves into my neighborhood. I don't have enough outlets to accommodate all my electrical needs.

Dumbledore is gay? What the hell are you talking about? J.K. Rowling announced last weekend that the heroic wizard from her wildly popular Harry Potter series was a member of the rainbow brigade. Supposedly, there has been a lot of speculation on the headmaster's sexuality on various websites. Really? This is a character in a series of children's books. Who gives it that kind of thought. Maybe people who sit around the house reading books while wearing flowing wizard robes. I read all the books, and to be honest, the sexuality of the characters never entered my mind. You know why? Because they're characters in a fantasy novel, that's why. That's like trying to surmise who the old man was humping before he went out to sea, or postulating on the sexual significance of a hat that's worn by a cat. Who cares? According to Rowling, she knew this about the character since she began writing him. We didn't, and the kids definitely didn't. Why add this complicated issue to the mix. The thing that bothers me about this is that it gives the narrow minded fear mongers another reason to try and get these books banned.

Britney got visitation, lost it, got it again then lost it again. Now it's reported she was hanging with K-Fed again. This is too easy. As soon as her new album tanks, look for Britney to be swinging from the brass pole at your local "gentleman's club" or on Craigslist under "Casual Encounters". "Former pop princess looking for discreet fun with wannabe rappers, pool boys or any one with access to a fast food restaurant. Shoes optional. Must love cameras and jean shorts. I'm real y'all."

Mother Nature has been having her way with Southern California. The fires are horrific, but after four days,the winds seem to be dying down a little. I spoke with friends out there and got an update on my old neighborhood. It was surrounded by fire, and some friends were evacuated, but thankfully they are all fine. Others weren't so lucky, so keep a good thought for them. When you're done with that, keep an angry thought for the soul less being or beings that allegedly started some of the fires. I have an idea for punishment. I know you do too, and I'm sure it involves wooden stakes, heavy ropes and lots of fire.

Stay up late tomorrow night and listen to the big show on WGN. We'll be having all kinds of Halloween fun and playing a great game during the "Overnight Arcade". Starting late Sunday night, I will be filling in for the fantastic Steve and Johnnie every morning from 2-5. If you're an early riser, make sure to listen. Have a great weekend. Later...Brian