Via: Flickr Title: Haleakala By: GinnyRED57 Originally uploaded: 3 Mar ’06, 5.32pm PST

There’s a classic Monty Python sketch about the death of Mary, Queen of Scots. On the LP I used to listen to in college (remember vinyl) the sound effects indicated a lively beating with caterwauling, and then someone whispers “I think she’s dead, then.” To which Mary replies “No, I’m not” and the whack-whack bang-bang caterwauling begins again. NO, I’m not dead. I’ve just been sorta… busy. 😀 Also, haven’t had a chance to use the Internets for a couple of days. More on that later.

Ran across this item because I’ve been keeping an eye out for mentions of slack key guitar in general, and George Kahumoku’s concert series in Maui in particular. Both topics are mentioned in this article from the Maui News, but what the writer has to say about true family values is worth noting: MAKING THE SCENE: All in the family For all the talk of “family values” in recent years that has actually been used to drive cultural wedges between groups of people, our chance to tag along on this Maui vacation was more of a spiritual homecoming. It was…

Overheard at the Starbuck’s today, while waiting for some much-needed “go juice” for my brain: Man behind a long line of people ordering chai soy-milk frothy venti lattes: “They should have a fast line for the people ordering non-froufy, plain black coffees.” Women in line ahead of me: “But we want our froufy drinks – do you want to cut ahead?” Man: “No, I’ve got plenty of time before my flight, I just wish I could walk up, get my coffee, and go.” Me, after some reflection: “But that would mean I’d have to stand in two lines, because my…

My blogchum Bill recorded this little gem under the heading “Outsider” and “Art.” Like, WAY “outsider” “art” I particularly like the meowing part. DISCLAIMER: Music is not safe for work, unless your company policy does not prevent you from spitting coffee through your nose. Do not listen to this music while operating heavy machinery. Do not listen to this music while pregnant. Do not attempt to become pregnant while listening to this music. Good job, Bill! Well done! You’ve inspired me to do something regrettable and embarassing with music, too! Maybe we could encourage everyone to perform “Night and Day”…

The sky outside is almost black, and there’s thunder and lightning going (very unusual for winter). We’ve got a winter storm warning for tonight, with snow, sleet, rain, ice, and all kinds of slidy badness. Tonight’s commute will be fun. Meantime, let the whining begin: “Can I leave eaaaarly? I’m wooooooried about the traaaaaafic.” And by the way, it’s just before 11am here.

On my way back from Holy Moly this morning I had to stop and snap this dapper snowman. The snow we got the other night was still pretty, and the people at this house had made a special effort with this guy – usually they’re placed right in the center of the yard, far from the street, but here they placed him at the end of their drive, where he’s much more friendly-like. I like his hat the best. Via: Flickr Title: 01-22-06_1246.jpg By: GinnyRED57 Originally uploaded: 22 Jan ’06, 6.47pm PST

They said it was supposed to snow today in the evening, and put about 4″ on the ground by midnight. Sonovagun, they were right. Via: Flickr Title: Empty By: GinnyRED57 Originally uploaded: 21 Jan ’06, 5.33am PST

You know, Pat Robertson must have lost his marbles long ago, but for some reason, he still wields political influence. Won’t it be interesting when his million viewers finally realize they’ve been listening to the ravings of a crazy old man? Even the White House is backing away from him now: BBC NEWS | Americas | US attacks TV host on Sharon slur I love this last bit from the Beeb: Not for the first time in recent months, elements on the Republican Party’s religious wing are causing it embarrassment.