tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-259093612024-03-07T01:47:07.761-08:00The Song of MosesProper words in proper places, make the true definition of style.
Jonathan SwiftMichaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15637187718797454390noreply@blogger.comBlogger161125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25909361.post-53473253769022529382008-10-04T16:28:00.000-07:002008-10-04T16:54:39.486-07:00FavoritesWe went on an afternoon date today--a nice lunch and then the movies. On the way home, we were discussing some of our favorite movies. Here's a sampling of some of the favorites:<div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">The Wife<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span></span></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">The Notebook</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Braveheart<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Sound of Music<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Anne of Green Gables<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Fiddler on the Roof<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Joy Luck Club<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Mamma Mia<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Love Actually<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Pretty Woman<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Parent Trap<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Savannah Smiles<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">A Few Good Men<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Grease<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Dead Poets Society<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Walk the Line<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Kill Bill, Vol. 2<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">The Husband</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Hopscotch</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">The Jerk</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">The Godfather</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Once</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Star Wars </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Pulp Fiction</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Amadeus</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Hoosiers</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">The Hard Word</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Monster's Inc.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Pirates of the Caribbean</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Michael Clayton</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Ocean's Eleven</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Snatch</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">The Thin Man</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Kelly's Heroes</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;">What are some of your favorites? Leave a comment with your list.</span></span></div>Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15637187718797454390noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25909361.post-59956280947497672832008-10-03T10:04:00.000-07:002008-10-03T10:07:58.098-07:00Palin & Biden<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFSPwTn-qIwLlu5a-XKJ877GQrOHrbfw68pQIfWBbbOFacvNyXPwnHL-zb4AFJtYR6QdvrirEgKNh2CHoRvt9D5Scsfvd52KugbL042DNLjGAS6mY2QCESNTlXu5CdKXS5DImT/s1600-h/palin+biden.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFSPwTn-qIwLlu5a-XKJ877GQrOHrbfw68pQIfWBbbOFacvNyXPwnHL-zb4AFJtYR6QdvrirEgKNh2CHoRvt9D5Scsfvd52KugbL042DNLjGAS6mY2QCESNTlXu5CdKXS5DImT/s320/palin+biden.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5252974995169053378" border="0" /></a>If you didn't watch the VP debate last night, it was rather tepid and uneventful. However, Joe Klein has an excellent analysis in TIME magazine today. You can read it <a href="http://news.yahoo.com/s/time/kleinpalinwasfinebutthisdebatewasnocontest;_ylt=Agy4xye9BoWhjvDu_taYdxOs0NUE">here</a>.<br /><br /><br /><br /><cite id="captionCite"><br /><br /><br />Picture: AFP/Paul J. Richards</cite>Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15637187718797454390noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25909361.post-62829048078774473792008-10-01T13:25:00.000-07:002008-10-01T13:26:41.412-07:00Are You Kidding Me?Travis Henry, an NFL player has been arrested on federal drug charges. You can read about it <a href="http://www.sportingnews.com/blog/the_sporting_blog/entry/view/13103/henry_busted_for_trafficking_kilos_of_coke">here</a>.<br /><br />Are you kidding me?Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15637187718797454390noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25909361.post-31879398899913349382008-08-19T21:17:00.000-07:002008-08-19T21:19:00.161-07:00Back from Vacation!After a wonderful trip to Houston and Washington D.C., we are back in Reno! We had an amazing time with our friends and family. There is so much to report. I'm in the process of writing up some posts about the trip, so stay tuned.<br /><br />MMichaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15637187718797454390noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25909361.post-77774597470264789502008-08-03T22:09:00.000-07:002008-08-03T22:25:47.686-07:00The Angry Crab<div>While we were in Kosrae, we noticed hundreds of land crabs. They were always out and about. But, at night, they came out in force. They're favorite place to be? In the middle of the road. One night we were returning to our apartments from the gymnasium. It was approximately an 8 or 9 minute drive back to the apartments from the gym. David and Todd (our former NBA players) and I were ahead of the second group--they apparently stayed at the gym after we had left.</div><div><br /></div><div>On our return, Todd noticed a giant land crab in the middle of the road. David told him to pull over. We did. David, a great adventurer, pulled off his basketball jersey and proceeded to snare the crab. He put it in the bed of the pickup truck and we continued on our merry way. Now, we constantly scheme on these trips to get the better of our travel mates, and David came up with a brilliant idea. Let's put the crab in someone's bed.</div><div><br /></div><div>Awesome. Of course, we chose Pastor Dan because he constantly wants to do crazy, but not illegal, things. We snuck into his apartment and David carefully placed the crab in Dan's bed. He was sharing an apartment with Dick and Chris. When they returned, we all decided to "hang out" in their apartment. What ensued was simply, well, interesting. </div><div><br /></div><div>David kept pulling the, "Hey, I'm tired. Let's go to bed" line so Dan would head to his bedroom. Finally, Dan went into his bedroom. About a minute later, we heard a shriek. This video is the result:</div><div><br /></div><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwH7ZoMJhcB3luXo0zXvQsXaU1JAxRD5A8wQm4RfPCeQETeG8co3Kfa8oSqqa0fBpzxQy-__5MWw0M' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe>Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15637187718797454390noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25909361.post-90920802873354945652008-08-03T21:30:00.000-07:002008-08-03T22:09:48.689-07:00Catching UpHello to all of you in bloggerland and beyond. I know it has been quite a while since our intrepid hero has posted on "The Song of Moses," but between my trip to the South Pacific and some other odd circumstances, I haven't had much time to post. <div><br /></div><div>The trip to Kosrae and Yap were wonderful and I'm in the process of creating some posts with pictures for everyone. So, be on the lookout for those.</div><div><br /></div><div>Update:</div><div><br /></div><div>1) Saw <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">The Dark Knight</span> twice. I know I am probably a big loser, but I enjoyed it. </div><div>2) Saw <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Mamma Mia</span>. I know I am an even bigger loser, but I enjoyed it. Abba rules.</div><div>3) My wife and I are preparing for our first vacation in three years! We will be traveling to Houston and Washington D.C. next week.</div><div>4) We went on a date last night to the Grand Sierra and had a fantastic time. That reminds me, let me relate some of our people watching observations.</div><div><br /></div><div>People Watching 101</div><div><br /></div><div>1) Do girls really look in a mirror before they go out for the evening? Honestly, are dresses that show too much of your chest or barely cover your bottom, and high heals that make you walk like a wobbly duck considered attractive these days? We saw a herd (bad choice of words--they weren't you know...just a gaggle of 20-ish girls trying to hard to be "attractive") stagger out of the restroom in a state of obvious intoxication. Such a sight to behold.</div><div>2) Is it okay to stroll through the GSR in your pajamas at 11 PM on a Saturday night?</div><div>3) Only some people can pull off this outfit: pink Converse Chuck shoes, short army shorts, a black t-shirt, and a fishing cap.</div><div>4) There was a lady near our area--mid 40s--who had a fashion nightmare happening on Saturday. Picture this: daisy duke blue jean shorts, black high heels, and a short dress worn as a top. Now, we didn't notice the shorts at first--we just thought she was wearing a dress that was, let's say, way too revealing. But, what made the outfit was this: the dress "top" that had straps which formed an X. I guess the pink bra straps were just an added bonus for all those in the GSR.</div><div>5) In the same group, another woman (mid 40s) was wearing a simple outfit: blue jeans and an orange top. What made her stand out was her tummy, the one she decided to show everyone repeatedly. I thought it was great that she let a member of her party continually rub (or shake) her belly.</div><div>6) Just because you are 6'8" doesn't mean you can play basketball. It doesn't even mean you'll be coordinated. If you are this tall, please be careful when you dance around others. Or, where someone like me will be watching. You're funny.</div><div>7) The daunting black shoes, pulled up black dress socks, fanny pack, and white t-shirt outfit made an appearance last night. Bonus: He was under the age of 60.</div><div>8) Spandex shorts and leggings were so 1980s. But, I guess they've returned.</div><div>9) Are children in strollers considered an accessory, especially in a casino at midnight?</div><div>10) My wife was beautiful. A simple outfit: jeans, nice new top, and a smile. What else could I ask for? </div><div><br /></div><div>Well, that's all the news that's fit to print. Stay tuned. Posting shall continue on a regular basis. Or, maybe not. We'll see.</div><div><br /></div><div>M</div>Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15637187718797454390noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25909361.post-20773488378581169602008-05-08T21:42:00.001-07:002008-05-08T22:11:28.916-07:00Ruminations on the South Pacific for 2008<div>I shall apologize in advance for the length of this entry:</div><div><br /></div>As many of you know, I travel to the South Pacific every year to share the game of basketball and the love of Christ with youth throughout the island nations. In 2005, we visited Palau; in 2006 we visited Saipain; and in 2007 we visited Chuuk and Pohnpei.<div><br /></div><div>This year we'll be visiting Kosrae and Yap.</div><div><br /></div><div>Each year we've had between 250 - 3oo kids participate in a free three day basketball clinic. Prior to the clinic, we work with the islands' national teams, teach them some skills and fundamentals, but more importantly, we share our lives and the Gospel.</div><div><br /></div><div>During the past three years, we've met the governors or Presidents of each country, spent time with other government representatives, and forged relationships with Olympic Committee members. We have prayed with and for the government representatives, for the national team members, and the children of the island.</div><div><br /></div><div>It has been a wonderful three year mission journey. We've seen numerous children (and adults) surrender their lives to Christ. </div><div><br /></div><div>I am constantly amazed at the opportunities God has presented to me and our team during our trips. Along with getting to play basketball and model positive character for the youth of the islands, I have had some unbelievable experiences.</div><div><br /></div><div>I have:<br /></div><div><ul><li>snorkeled in the bluest of blue waters, </li><li>snorkeled above World War II aircraft in the Truk lagoon, </li><li>touched a submerged submarine chaser (it's a ship)</li><li>ate mangrove crab, </li><li>gone deep sea fishing for tuna (and hooked a marlin accidentally), </li><li>parasailed, </li><li>golfed at Lau Lau Bay, </li><li>visited the town of Dan Dan,</li><li>swum in a pool at the bottom of a waterfall, </li><li>hiked through the forests of Pohnpei, </li><li>seen the Rock Islands, </li><li>participated in traditional island church services, </li><li>tried seafood rice for breakfast (quite yummy),</li><li>revolted at the smell of tuna soup, </li><li>spent time with local woodworking craftsmen in Pohnpei, </li><li>tried betelnut, </li><li>visited Banzai and Suicide Cliff, <br /></li><li>been interviewed on Saipan radio,</li><li>been to Babeldaob,</li><li>had a cockroach climb into my boxer shorts (while I was wearing them),</li><li>screamed like a little girl when a cockroach climbed into my boxer shorts (while I was wearing them),</li><li>been known as "Mike Crown" in the newspaper,</li><li>had a nine hour layover in Japan,</li><li>thanked the Lord for McDonald's,</li><li>visited a waterpark and saw about 1,000 Japanese tourists in speedos (ouch),</li><li>visited the ruins of Nan Madol, </li><li>spent time with the incredible youth of Chuuk High School</li></ul><div>This list is by no means exhaustive. It serves as a wonderful reminder of how awesome our God is -- I once felt the game of basketball was taken from me. I was wrong. God gave it back to me in a big way and has used my skills to share his Word. </div><div><br /></div><div>I am blessed.</div><div><br /></div><div>I wonder what He has in store for us next month?</div></div>Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15637187718797454390noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25909361.post-19699818470372125342008-05-06T14:13:00.000-07:002008-05-06T14:15:25.829-07:00Eat This, Not ThatA recent <em>Men's Health </em><a href="http://www.menshealth.com/eatthis/16-Restaurant-Industry-Secrets/index.php?cm_mmc=Yahoo_Blog-_-ETNT-_-16_Big_Fat_Restaurant_Lies-_-16_Secrets_the_Restaurant_Industry_Doesn">article</a> investigated our eating habits -- at both fast food and "sit-down" restaurants. What they discovered was astonishing.<br /><br />I recommend you read the article before you head to another restaurant. What may be billed as "low-fat" is probably HIGH in calories and other nasty stuff.<br /><br />Enjoy.Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15637187718797454390noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25909361.post-54027655306001083902008-04-19T14:28:00.000-07:002008-04-19T14:29:52.866-07:00New WebsiteHi everyone. <div><br /></div><div>I have put up a new website using Yahoo's Sitebuilder. It is a terrible tool, but the website is much improved. Check it out at <a href="http://www.revisionwc.com">www.revisionwc.com.</a></div><div><br /></div><div>If you know of anyone looking for a grant writer or a nonprofit organization needing fund development help, let me know, give them my phone number, or send them to the website.</div><div><br /></div><div>Best,</div><div><br /></div><div>M</div>Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15637187718797454390noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25909361.post-91625183981340654202008-04-10T11:17:00.001-07:002008-04-10T11:18:38.421-07:00A Short HiatusHi.<br /><br />Sorry for the lack of posting lately. There are two reasons: a lack of time and a general lack of inspiration. I've been quite busy lately and haven't had much time to dedicate to creating fun blog entries.<br /><br />So, stay tuned. Once I finish grading nine million papers and knock out a couple of grantwriting contracts, things should be back to normal.<br /><br />My best to everyone!<br /><br />Cheers,<br /><br />MMichaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15637187718797454390noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25909361.post-4837307610202908232008-04-02T21:48:00.000-07:002008-04-02T21:53:35.793-07:00SimplicitySometimes simple is nice. Simple is good. Simple is pleasing.<div><br /></div><div>I recently (in the last ten minutes) returned home after hanging out with friends. My wife was messing with her iPod in the office--making playlists and the like. I grabbed my Macbook and proceeded to put some new music on her iPod. We've been listening to music together for the last few minutes. </div><div><br /></div><div>Nothing fancy. </div><div><br /></div><div>Just sitting together listening to music.</div><div><br /></div><div>Sometimes the most pleasing times with each other are the moments we usually don't notice. </div><div><br /></div><div>Sometimes the greatest blessings are in the simple times.</div><div><br /></div><div>Here's to simple.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div> <br /></div>Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15637187718797454390noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25909361.post-14316874468624847572008-03-25T16:04:00.000-07:002008-03-25T16:10:33.279-07:00It's Hot At TahoeA new study by UC Davis found that global warming is affecting Lake Tahoe.<br /><br />You can read about it <a href="http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080325/ap_on_sc/tahoe_warming">here</a>.<br /><br />For more information about the study and preservation efforts at Lake Tahoe, you can visit the website for the <a href="http://terc.ucdavis.edu/">UC Davis Tahoe Environmental Center</a>.Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15637187718797454390noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25909361.post-5074090016124366032008-03-24T22:16:00.001-07:002008-03-25T16:12:04.495-07:00OnceHere's another movie recommendation. Yes, it's another music-centered film.<div><br /></div><div>It's called <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Once</span>. "Falling Softly," a song from the movie won best song at this year's Oscars. A dramatic, but touching film about a musician living in Ireland, <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Once</span> is surprisingly good.</div><div><br /></div><div>I was not really in the mood to watch it this evening. I was still coming down off a binge of <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">The Office</span>. Switching from a bust-a-gut laughing television show to a more serious tome can sometimes be difficult.</div><div><br /></div><div>However, it wasn't so difficult tonight. The movie opens with our hero, the "Guy" (you never learn his name) singing and playing his guitar on the streets of Dublin. I don't want to ruin the opening to the movie, so just know the first two minutes of the film are funny, yet revealing.</div><div><br /></div><div>We soon meet the "Girl" (again, we don't learn her name). What follows after their encounter is a story that traces the arc of their relationship bonded through music. Exploring past relationships, forming a new relationship, the Guy and Girl take us on an intriguing emotional ride. </div><div><br /></div><div>However, what captured me the most was the music. I guarantee if you watch this movie, you'll be downloading the soundtrack later that night. Along with "Falling Softly," there are a number of wonderful songs you'll want to listen to again and again.</div><div><br /></div><div>So, to keep things brief, I highly recommend this gem of a movie. Put <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Once</span> in your Netflix or Blockbuster Online queue. </div>Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15637187718797454390noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25909361.post-50151710517679121922008-03-20T22:26:00.000-07:002008-03-20T22:41:10.742-07:00August RushA couple of evenings ago we watched <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">August Rush. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><br /></span></div><div>Do not miss this fine little family movie. With strong performances from Freddie Highmore, Keri Russell, Jonathan Rhys Meyers, and Terrence Howard, this movie is sure to charm your socks off. The story of an orphan (I won't spoil you with background information) who discovers he is a musical prodigy, <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">August Rush </span>is a movie both kids and adult can appreciate.<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><br /></span></div><div>The movie does has an odd performance from Robin Williams (is it possible to bottle up his frenetic energy?)<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"> </span>Named "Wizard," Williams does constrain his overacting and keeps it in line with what our character expectations are. Plus, he's exactly the right actor for the role.</div><div><br /></div><div>What you'll want to hear is the music. With a fantastic score and original songs, <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">August Rush </span>isn't only fun to watch--it's fun to listen to. I found myself tapping my foot more than once -- I even replayed one terrific scene involving Highmore and a guitar.</div><div><br /></div><div>Sure there are feel-good moments, but they don't cake them on like a sappy Hallmark card. For a nice family movie, I recommend <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">August Rush.</span></div>Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15637187718797454390noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25909361.post-86839517833467702652008-03-19T22:59:00.000-07:002008-03-19T23:12:57.885-07:00A General Lack of TimeHello my loyal readers -- all three of you.<br /><br />It has been a rough couple of weeks. My various endeavors have sucked all of my into a vortex of nothingness. I feel like Atreyu from <em>The Neverending Story</em>--The Nothing keeps coming and coming.<br /><br />Too bad Falkor the Luckdragon or the Rockbiter are not here to help.<br /><br />Well, to bring everyone up to speed...<br /><br />I am working two full time jobs as well as getting my nonprofit development company up and running. There are some exciting developments in the works and I should be able to share those soon.<br /><br />So, to keep rambling to a minimum, my posts should continue on a regular basis. I have a couple of good stories to tell.<br /><br />Stay tuned as further news bulletins warrant.<br /><br />MMichaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15637187718797454390noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25909361.post-27541017983938726202008-03-15T19:25:00.001-07:002008-03-15T19:26:11.591-07:0010 GnomesCan you find the 10 Gnomes in under 10 minutes? I bet you can't.<br /><br />Click <a href="http://www.10gnomes.com/01.html">here</a> for some gnome action.Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15637187718797454390noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25909361.post-82117301673215823682008-03-06T09:29:00.000-08:002008-03-06T09:34:10.380-08:00Was Moses High?Here at The Song of Moses, we do not condone the use of, take, or sell drugs of any kind--except the occasional Pepsi product.<div><br /></div><div>However, new research says that our namesake, Moses, was high on drugs when he received the Ten Commandments and when he encountered the burning bush. <div><br /></div><div>Benny Shanon, a professor at the Hebrew University of Jersusalem believes, "As far Moses on Mount Sinai is concerned, it was either a supernatural cosmic event, which I don't believe, or a legend, which I don't believe either, or finally, and this is very probable, an event that joined Moses and the people of Israel under the effect of narcotics." </div><div><br /></div><div>For the rest of the article, you can read about it <a href="http://news.yahoo.com/s/afp/20080304/od_afp/israelreligionoffbeat;_ylt=An9QGJa2Kr5CgJCroyBBLrys0NUE">here</a>. </div><div><br /></div><div>Any thoughts?</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div>Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15637187718797454390noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25909361.post-74063178453043383532008-02-27T22:04:00.000-08:002008-02-27T22:07:02.586-08:00Stuff White People LikeOne of my associates introduced me to a blog called "<a href="http://stuffwhitepeoplelike.wordpress.com/">Stuff White People Like</a>." <div><br /></div><div>Check it out. It is extremely well-done; there are mini-essays that provide an explanation behind each item.</div><div><br /></div><div>You can find it by clicking <a href="http://stuffwhitepeoplelike.wordpress.com/">here</a> or on the title above.</div><div><br /></div><div>Be careful though. You might chuckle...more than once...</div>Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15637187718797454390noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25909361.post-83244526685583284882008-02-26T12:52:00.000-08:002008-02-26T12:57:15.303-08:00Star Wars--As Told By A Three Year-OldI don't know if you have seen this video clip yet. It is of a three year-old girl retelling the plot to <em>Star Wars IV: A New Hope. </em>Be careful, you might actually say awhhhhhhhhhh....<br /><br />You can watch it <a href="http://youtube.com/watch?v=EBM854BTGL0">here</a>.Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15637187718797454390noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25909361.post-37395780555854498382008-02-23T18:16:00.000-08:002008-02-23T18:18:19.847-08:00Are You Smarter Than A Chimpanzee?I don't think you are. Click <a href="http://games.lumosity.com/chimp.html">here</a> to find out.<br /><br />Good luck.Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15637187718797454390noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25909361.post-38714897864730357522008-02-21T13:44:00.000-08:002008-02-21T13:45:34.773-08:00The Job Part II: The FridgeMany of you know that I have battled a past addiction to liquid cocaine.<br /><br />Pepsi. Dr. Pepper. Mountain Dew. Coke. Sprite. Ah heck, any softdrink beverage that is carbonated, has caffeine, and gets me all revved up after I drink it.<br /><br />I recently completed a fast from soda and have been feeling terrific. Soda no longer haunts my thoughts, gives me withdrawl headaches, or sounds particularly appetizing at 6:00 AM.<br /><br />Until yesterday.<br /><br />I walked into the kitchen area at my new office and saw two fridges.<br /><br />"Weird," I thought.<br /><br />I opened the first fridge. It was a normal fridge filled with normal foodstuffs. I proceeded to open the second fridge.<br /><br />Oh my $&!#@*!!!<br /><br />I nearly wet myself when I saw what was inside.<br /><br />Row after row after row of soda. I'm not talking about ten or twelve sodas. I'm talking about six shelves of soda just beckoning to be had. I spent the rest of the day trying to forget about that second fridge.<br /><br />It's almost not even fair.Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15637187718797454390noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25909361.post-48506441424694173482008-02-21T13:27:00.000-08:002008-02-21T13:44:06.411-08:00The Job Part II began my new job yesterday. First day on the job. Yup. First day. I was expecting the 7th level of cubicle hell. I was afraid I would end up like the character Peter Gibbons from <em>Office Space</em>.<br /><br />I can just imagine myself attending a session with a Occupational Hypnotherapist:<br /><br />Peter Gibbons: "So I was sitting in my cubicle today, and I realized, ever since I started working, every single day of my life has been worse than the day before it. So that means that every single day that you see me, that's on the worst day of my life."<br /><br />Dr. Swanson: "What about today? Is today the worst day of your life?"<br /><br />Peter Gibbons: "Yeah."<br /><br />Dr. Swanson: "Wow, that's messed up."<br /><br />Now, I don't expect to end up in a therapist's office complaining about my crappy job.<br /><br />Not at all.<br /><br />After my first day on the job all of my expectations were blown away. The office environment is -- how should I put this -- chill. My coworkers are extremely nice and my office area is great (I get TWO computer screens).<br /><br />The day went fast, I got brought up to speed, and enjoyed my time very much. I'm excited to see what tomorrow holds.Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15637187718797454390noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25909361.post-81569416921880115302008-02-20T20:41:00.001-08:002008-02-20T20:44:35.811-08:00U.S. Military Attacks Satellite<div style="text-align: left;">If you haven't heard, the U.S. Navy used a gigantic missile to shoot down an inoperable satellite today. Experts were worried that the satellite would come hurtling to earth, burn up, crash, and release a cloud of toxic gas in an area the size of two football fields.<br /><br />Very cool stuff.<br /><br />You can read about it <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2008/TECH/space/02/20/satellite.shootdown/index.html">here</a>.<br /></div>Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15637187718797454390noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25909361.post-90889163139876485862008-02-17T19:12:00.000-08:002008-02-17T19:28:31.334-08:00Juno<div>It has been a while since I have posted a movie review, so please enjoy.</div><div><br /></div>My wife and I saw the movie <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Juno</span> this evening. It is a terrific movie--deftly written by Diablo Cody whose dialogue crackles. Jason Reitman, who also directed <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Thank You For Smoking</span>, ably creates a short (1 1/2 hour) film about Juno, a 16-year old who becomes pregnant. Although laughs are found in nearly every scene, <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Juno</span> is an emotional and poignant story. The acting is superb and Ellen Page delivers a stunning performance as Juno.<div><br /></div><div>J.K. Simmons and Allison Janney play Juno's parents--caring and loving who support Juno's situation with warmth. Jason Bateman and Jennifer Garner play a couple who cannot have children and want to adopt. They place an ad expressing their desire to adopt, Juno finds the ad and strange hilarity ensues.</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Like Thank You For Smoking</span>, Jason Reitman displays some serious directing skills and doesn't allow the movie to lull -- each scene is well-crafted and adds another layer to a complex tale. The music is superb -- at moments -- awkward, but the creativity and originality of the score parallels Juno's free spirit.</div><div><br /></div><div><div>Now, this movie isn't roll-in-your-seat funny -- the humor is subdued, but it is a humor that enlightens the situation of a 16-year old who finds herself in a very difficult position. <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Juno</span> is a movie that will have you -- to borrow a cliche -- cheering for more.<br /></div><div><br /></div><div>If you have not seen this movie, I recommend you drop everything you are doing and sprint to the theatres. There is a reason it was nominated for Best Picture and Ellen Page was nominated for a Best Actress award.</div><div><br /></div><div>It is going to give the other Best Picture nominees a run for their money. </div></div>Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15637187718797454390noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25909361.post-13350905968774847952008-02-12T07:08:00.001-08:002008-02-12T07:10:51.210-08:00A New JobIn recent days, I was offered an associate editor's position with a national online marketing and media content company. I accepted the job and I will start next week. I will work part-time until my semester of teaching ends and then I will transition into a full-time position.<br /><br />Hopefully, this position will be the stepping stone towards moving into an editorial position at a larger print/online publication or printing house.<br /><br />More updates to come.Michaelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15637187718797454390noreply@blogger.com1