Miscellaneous Bits

Oh my. I watched So You Think You Can Dance tonight. Addictive. I hate the "Simon" guy, but the contestants are amazing. I think I have a higher appreciation for the dance than I do for the singing on American Idol. Of course, I don't really know what they're competing for. I mean, it's not like you're going to soar to fame and fortune as a lyrical jazz dancer. But fun to watch.

The National Book Festival is coming up on September 24th. Probably about the only good thing to come out of this administration. Some great authors: Neil Gaiman, Diana Gabladon (shut up, I know she's romance, but I'm addicted), and Tony Hillerman among others. I went last year, and spent a great day listening to some great authors. I guess I'm going to have to get there extra early this year if I want a shot at getting Neil Gaiman to sign anything, since the line was crazy last year, and I finally gave up because I wanted to hear him read. Worth it, since he's a great reader. The other highlight last year was Connie Willis, who gave a wonderful talk about books that influenced her. It was a tsunami of authors and book titles. She was amazing and inspiring.

I got roped into Celebrity Poker Showdown on Thursday night, and when I looked at everyone, I was transfixed by the fact that Howie Mandel, Bryan Cranston and Meatloaf were all wearing...surgical rubber gloves. And then Bryan Cranston ripped his off, and I think Meatloaf's came off soon after. So it appears that Howie Mandel was the perpetrator. Did he think they were all going to put them on their heads and blow them up with their noses?

And, finally, Pat Robertson. You just never disappoint me. Evangelical preacher, foreign policy specialist, and, now, diet doctor. Shall wonders never cease?