Mark. (I think)

Weekends are fun.

Well, it was a cold and snowy weekend, but those kind of weekends are the best kind when you're in the mood for snow surfing (photo above). Kidding of course, but it was a good weekend nonetheless. I actually got some stuff done: car inspection (out since November, oops), returning really bad Jonathan Product shampoo to Ulta, grocery shopping, and the Mavs won!!! They came out swinging from the get go and kept it up almost the entire game. High fives all around!!!!

So now it's Saturday night, and there are just a few more things to get done before we head to Dallas Sunday night to see Van Morrison in concert. The tickets were a bit much, but I think it's important to see your favorite bands/musicians whenever possible, no matter what. So I snapped up two tickets for part of Erik's Christmas gift. I hope Van puts on a great show, or Erik might rush the stage. I'll film it if he does.

I hope you are having a great weekend too. I know all the TCU-ites out there are loving life, as they won their bowl game 20-13. Congrats Frogs!

Now Go Cowboys, even it doesn't matter that much. And Go Tech too! (January 1st)

Chris McKinley Rulz.
~ amy

Hello.

Well, I know it's been an eternity since I've posted anything, but I'm bringing it hard core, to the front door, 'til my hands are sore. (stop) I hope you had a very merry Christmas, with good times, twinkly lights and all the trimmings. I had a great Christmas, and came home with way too much stuff.

The Cowboys won, as did the Mavericks (tonight doesn't count) and I got to go work today, so it's been a marvelous week so far. Gosh I'm spoiled. I'll work harder on posting stuff, so my readership will have something to look forward to, all 3 of you.

If you feel it put your hands up. Hood.

Shock'er.

Cowbs defeat the Giants 31-20, and all is right with the world.
No mercy. Yes sensei.

D-Harp loves calendars.

The Mavs were defeated by the Portland Trailblazers on the road Saturday night, but luckily there was some good strong funny to lessen the pain. Watch and enjoy as Derek Harper tells you how he really feels about the Mavs Dancers calendar. Oh jeez...

PPT gets Grammy nods!

Now THIS is great news! The super talented rap trio PPT have been nominated for 3 Grammys! They have passed the preliminary voting round and are just waiting for the Grammy peeps to vote them through to the final round! They are amazing, and throw down some of the freshest, most illinest beats/rhymes around. Trust.

Make sure to pick up their latest CD 'Tres Monos in Love'. Go PPT!!!
Keep it funky.

Pimpin' ain't easy, but it's necessary...

Yeah, your eyes aren't trippin' boo. It's a Prius limo.

This Prius owner modded his car into a custom 10 8-seater Prius Limo, while still maintaining 50 mpg fuel efficiency. It took him 200 hours of fabrication at a cost of about $10,000.

H-O-T.

Get your trivia on.

Click here to take a spooky little horror movie quiz. Let me know how you do!

Sugar Bush is the future.

Sugar Bush Squirrel is a real, live Eastern Gray Squirrel who is owned and photographed by Ms. Kelly Foxton. Rescued, as a baby in her nest, from a tree which was being cut down, she is now living the ‘good life’ with Kelly in Boca Raton, Florida. A small, lime-green parrot, named Rio, is her big sister and constant companion.

Being an International Superstar and The World’s Most Photographed Squirrel, Sugar Bush loves to dress up, and has over 2,000 outfits with matching hats and accessories. Sugar Bush Squirrel has her own, posh studio with an elaborate stage and thousands of stage props, and has posed for over 5,000 photos since her modeling career began.

My vote is in. Sugar Bush for prez!

Checkmate.

Good question.

Finally.

Just in time for Christmas, behold, the WiFi detector shirt. I'm not making this up. You know you want one, because nothing says 'hotness' like knowing where all the WiFi hot spots are. So pimpalicious.

Why did it have to be Ft. Worth?

This is just sad.

Texas Cashier Clubs Deaf Customer For Not Talking
____________________

A Family Dollar clerk in Forth Worth, Texas was charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon after police said he used a crowbar to club a deaf customer. Cody Goodnight, 30, has been deaf since before the age of 2 and uses sign language to communicate.

When Goodnight tried to pay for two bottles of Sprite with a $5 bill he was assaulted by the store clerk. Investigators said the clerk, 20-year-old Ricky Young told them he thought Goodnight was being rude by not talking to him and hit him in the head with a crowbar.

What an a-hole. I know a good place for that crowbar, and I guarantee you it's 'rude'.

Looks simple enough...

I've never carved a Halloween pumpkin before, at least not that I remember. Maybe this would be a good pattern to start with. Can't be that hard right?

(what she said)

'Yarn' of the Dead

Yeppers. It's "Dawn of the Dead", crocheted. Don't hate, appreciate.

Keri Russell's Must Have Product?

Keri tells Lucky Magazine, “Kiehl’s makes this coriander line that I’m crazy about. The scent is clean but also addictive.”

They have several different scents. I might pick up the Cranberry Shower Gel for myself. Mmmm!

Kiehl’s Bath and Shower Liquid Body Cleanser

* Refreshing, gentle, yet effective
* Shower or Bath use
* Humectants help skin maintain its moisture
* Not tested on animals

A refreshing, gentle, yet effective cleanser for the body. Formulated with humectants to help skin maintain its moisture. Used in the shower or bath, our formula leaves skin clean with a lovely texture. - $15.50-$25.00
____________________________________

Yeah, I know it's cheesy, but I had to put a post up, since the post below this one is proving untrue at the moment. Don't get me wrong, I hope the Cowbs pull out a win against the (Dreaded and Feared?) bills, but it's looking pretty damn awful at this point. And it's not even half-time!!! I guess we'll just hope for the best. Where has our jedi gone? Where art thou Romo?

Cowbs' are 4-0

This just in: Tony Romo might be a jedi. The Cowboys stomped the Rams 35-7 Sunday, and looked great doing it.

In other news, the Red Raiders routed Northwestern State 75-7. Next weekend, it's Iowa State (1-3) in Lubbock. Bring it.

"Welcome back again."

Here's a list of "recommended/forbidden words" posted in a Chinese clothing store. Smart thinkin'. I'm cracking up just picturing some employee saying "Just take it and leave me alone." Now that's ballsy. Though I'm sure I have used #2 on the forbidden list from time to time.

I think we need similar lists posted in American stores. Add to the "forbidden" list, "What did you just say?" That's just kind of rude. It's not my fault I have speech weirdness, but if you'd get the bong resin out of your ears you'd understand when someone is trying to order some damn quesadillas! Anyway, I think lists would be useful.

I mean lishts.

SNL Digital Short - 'Iran So Far'

Yes! I think SNL is finally getting great again! Lebron James was the host of last night's Saturday Night Live season premier, and it was pretty darn good, in spite of the fact that Kanye Dill-Hole was the musical guest. Here is one of the highlights, "Iran so Far", a little love letter from Andy Samberg to the oh-so-insane Iranian leader Mahmoud Ahmadinejad. Don't be surprised if you are humming the chorus all day. It's that good.

Side note, Andy Samberg is H-O-T. Maybe it's the skinny tie and vest?

What did I jusht shay?

Wow, thish ish hard to shay:

World’s hardest tongue twister is "The sixth sick sheik’s sixth sheep’s sick."

Why do eshes gotta be sho dang hard to shay?

Cool. Still kind of depressing.

Keeping it real.

'PowerPoint' is finally online!

Yay! Erik's short film 'Death by PowerPoint' is online now at www.atombomb.tv so swing by and check it out! It is the first collaboration (actually second) between the always skillful Erik Clapp (director/writer) and the incomparable effervescent Matt Tyndall (star/muse).

If you are a fan of awesome things, make sure to check out the 'shop'. I know it's not at all possible for you to be any hotter, but an atombomb.tv hat would look mighty fine on your noggin. If you want to throw a little hotness in your puppy's direction, get him/her a doggy t-shirt! I know, I'll stop.

Seriously though, make sure to check out the atombomb.tv site and 'Death by PowerPoint'. Erik and his posse worked really hard on it and I think it shows. Pretty, pretty, pretty good!

Also, make sure to visit these sites and rate Erik's film:
www.funnyordie.com (once logged in, click on 'funny' in the player)
www.break.com
www.youtube.com

Thanks so much!

The rhythm got him.

"Hungry for a dill?"

"mmmm, Pickles."

This reminded me of the infamous Barb Smith prank, courtesy of the cutest yuk monkey around, Corby Davidson. So wheels off, it's genius!

Tiny Music

He's got a lot of mouths to feed, so Mr. Fly has to take on a lot of odd jobs. I think this photo was taken at Nordstroms, where he sometimes works weekends. You'd think he'd be hard to see, but we are the same height, so I try to wave whenever I see him. Sometimes we share shoes.

Click here to see some more photos of the life and times of Mr. Fly.

Unusual Suspect

Tis' the Season (almost)

Some days, it's hard to swim...

...and even harder to smile. Then I look at this photo and the smile creeps back in. Thanks Lucy, cat of the high seas. (and pescimon and sammo who are always smiling/napping/maintaining their cuteness, 24/7)

Recycling is Good

Here's a list of 21 things that maybe you didn't know you could recycle. Looks like you can even recycle your old workout videos. I might have to bid adieu to Miss Jane, but I will remember her fondly, and painfully.

"N.Z.'s 4th Best Folk Parody Duo"

I LOVE Flight of The Conchords, and though I don't have HBO, my good buddy Poecat introduced me to the fab twosome a few months ago. I owe her many fancy gifts, because F.O.T.C. is funnier than Joe Namath drunk! (see video below)

I've only seen the first few episodes, but Poecat saves them all, so I am hoping for a watching party soon. (and a little light shopping) Click here to check out the HBO site for the show and let the gentle comedy wash over you.

Now, for something completely different, here's Joe. 'Strugggggling'...

No truer words...

Totally Rad

Yes, it's a Space Invaders doormat, and I know a few people who would appreciate having this on their doorstep. :-)

Fiery, but worth it.

Crazy enough, this site is set up to rid idiot parents of their daughters, by 'marrying them off', for cash, of course. I love this one. Let's see, she's spent more time with boys than they would like, so the obvious solution would be to get her good and married. Wow, what a practical idea! I don't know about you, but from what I've learned in life, the best way to get an acting or singing career off the ground is to get married. Her parents should be brass-knuckled. :-)

UPDATE: Fake, but still funny.

Makes me want a hug.

Praying Mantis + Cat?

Here are some other things this precious kittone reminds me of:

- an angry (very old) ninja
- an angry (very old) homeless guy
- mr. miyagi
- a chameleon on a tree branch
- a raw chicken (skin on)
- the cutest thing ever...

The Best Movie in the World!

That is not an exaggeration. Behold, "King of Kong". It is hands down one of the best documentaries I have seen, EVER! It has it all: power mullets, great 80's tunes, and kill-screens. Here is Erik's well crafted summary:

King of Kong details the proposed showdown of two top Donkey Kong players from the 80's. One is an arrogant prick named Billy who thinks he is God's gift to everything and holds the current record. Then there is Steve, a family man and goodhearted guy who always came in second in life. One day Steve video tapes himself breaking the Donkey Kong high score held by Billy. The tape is then inspected as is the game and ruled by self proclaimed Donkey Kong experts to be unofficial since it did not occur in public.

Steve decides to travel to the Video Game arcade to have it officially counted and have a showdown with Billy. What follows is several years worth of crazy happenings in this odd and cultish world of 80's video game fanatics that even have 24 hour parties of just watching video tapes of guys playing games for over 15 hours at a clip!

It is playing in limited release, but if you are a fan of documentaries, or if you are just plain smart, you will seek out this movie. Please enjoy the trailer below, and thank you for your time.

KING OF KONG RULZ!

Midget Kittones!

P-R-E-C-I-O-U-S! I think they are trying to get away from the Pepsi can, but their teency feets won't go fast enough. I'm just saying, even midget kittones know that Coke is the real thing.

3:10 To Yuma - Review

We saw "3:10 To Yuma" Friday night and it was a pretty good film. I have never seen the original, but this one felt like an old-fashioned western with plenty of gun fights, staring contests and busted teefs. I guess dentists weren't the hot ticket back then, but they sure knew how to craft a fine looking leather jacket.

It's basically your typical western plot: good guy Dan Evans (Christian Bale), and his family are in danger of losing their land due to drought and an old west mob boss who wants to build a railroad on Evans' land. Feeling like he has lost the respect of his sons and wife, Evans volunteers to help take infamous outlaw Ben Wade (Russell Crowe) to Yuma, to put him on a train that will ultimately take him to be hanged.

It's a very good story, and the characters are very real. Watching this reminds you that there are still great actors out there, and great writers, and that you don't always know how the movie will end...

The Guns are Up!

The Red Raiders defeat the Mustangs 49-9.
Hit 'em, wreck 'em Texas Tech!!!

Sneaky, but so great.

"Sometimes self help isn't helpful."

Elton John - "Border Song"

Even if you're not a die hard Elton fan, you should check out this video for "Border Song". In my humble opinion, he is one of the best singer/songwriters of all time, and this song is one of my favorites. I hope you like it.

Also, if you are in the mood for some good 80's music, visit the video bar on the right to see some videos by Mike & The Mechanics. Paul Carrack had an amazing voice, it's a shame he died so young. Such great songs!

The heart wants what it wants.

Four baby hedgehogs are being raised by the staff at New Forest Otter, Owl and Wildlife Park in England. Mary, Mungo, Midge and Slappy take comfort by snuggling up with a cleaning brush. The brush has been used to sweep a yard, so it smells like the great outdoors, and the bristly texture may be reminiscent of their mothers.

Where is momma hedge? At least she gave them cute names before she left.

Photoshop Face Transplants

Now THIS is crazy. Each photo is actually made up of two different celebrities. I think you can tell who the photo above is, but some of them are pretty tough to figure out. I picked this one because the arms really freaked me out. If you stare at them too long you become hypnotized. I swear I saw L. Ron Hubbard appear and ask me for money and a personality test. Dang aliens.

Sometimes you need a hug

Where my dogs at?

I think this should clear things up...

Gorgeday

Written by special guest blogger Erik.

Well Monday was Amy's birthday and for her surprise we went to Canon City and took the Royal Gorge Train all through the mountains of Colorado and under the Royal Gorge Bridge, the largest suspension bridge in the world. On the train ride we had lunch and then took to the open air car where we saw a real live in the wild Black Bear looking for food on a nearby ledge. That sent the train into a frenzy on the return trip, cause no one was really concerned about scenery anymore, it was all about the bears. It was really the highlight of the trip and easily the best train ride we've ever had.

Next we went to the Royal Gorge bridge and walked across. Amy was quite nervous which I felt was odd since she loves roller coasters and I don't at all. To cap off our trip we drove in the mountains to Cripple Creek to do some Casino games. I didn't lose more than 20 bucks. I think the most I won was $10. We left there at 11pm and it actually got really cold and rainy on us. The drive back which we thought would be all highway turned out to be an hour drive in the pitch black mountains with rain. We were so nervous driving that we took turns. Tuesday we got up and drove from 9am to 11pm back to Texas. I had a great time with Amy celebrating her birthday, it was the most relaxing and fulfilling trip in a long time. And best of all it was with my girl!

Check out all the new photos that Amy added to the gallery:

CLICK HERE!

Come back to the Blog premiere of our vacation video about Pike's Peak called, "PEAK" !

Arcades, Caves, and Corgis

Word from CO again. We are having a blast in Manitou Springs. Yesterday we got up played some basketball. Amy made 15 shots in a row! Impressive. I was hitting from long range pretty well, but I am quite rusty. Broke in a virgin ball that my cousins gave me for a wedding gift. NBA regulation ball too. Anyway we went to eat at a place on the river for lunch and had an open faced turkey sandwich with brown gravy. Then we walked the shops of Manitou Springs and found the most awesome arcade we have ever seen. It's about 5 or 6 different buildings with games from the 40's all the way up to present day. They even had those deals where you put in a penny or a nickel and watch index cards with photos on them flip by as you crank them. We played the original Asteroids, Donkey Kong, and Tron. We also witnessed some bad ass folk drumming at the local music festival. I took this on my cell phone for all of you to jam to:



Next we took a drive up a very large mountain with no guard rails and at the top we explored The Cave of the Winds. The cave itself is pretty worn out and small, but it was a nice 50 degrees in there. Amy found a Corgi dog she liked tied up to the bleachers, and since we could not take him we ended up at Petsmart later so Amy could see some cats. We then went to Old Colorado City and walked around for a while before eating dinner at the Mason Jar. (A kind of Cracker Barrel type place.) I thought food here would be pricey but so far its not bad at all. We drove over to Colorado Springs so Amy could buy a non headache inducing pillow. We then returned to Old Colorado City so I could get my annual vacation chocolate covered frozen banana at a chocolate shop.

Everyone here is very friendly. There are dogs everywhere. It seems like dogs are more prevalent than children here. The weather is great. We have not had to turn on the AC at all. Its cool in the mornings around 50ish. Today we take the cog Railway to Pikes Peak, and tomorrow is Amy's birthday surprise trip. Here is the link again for more updated photos:

CLICK HERE FOR MORE PHOTOS!!!

Garden of the Gods

Friday night, we went to check out Garden of the Gods and take some photos. This morning we got up early, shot some hoops (Erik's getting better, is jealous of my skillz), and now we are off to grab some lunch, visit the Cave of the Winds (haha) and check out some of the local shops. One thing I've noticed, is this is the place to be if you want to buy art, get a massage/acupuncture/aura cleansing/etc..., or buy art. I'll report back with more observations later on. It's fun so far though!

Erik's set up a photo gallery on iWeb. Click here to check it out. We'll be updating it with new pics each day. Holla!

Amarillo by Morning

They took my saddle in Houston, broke my leg in Santa Fe. Lost my wife and a girlfriend somewhere along the way. It's been a busy trip.

Here are some pics from our morning in Amarillo. We got in last night around midnight, and got up early to eat at the Big Texan, which seems to be the main attraction in town. If you haven't heard of it before, it's the home of the 72oz steak dinner, which is free if you finish it in under 1 hour. There's even a raised area in the middle of the restaurant with a table and a digital clock, so everyone can watch as you attempt to finish your mammoth steak (including baked potato, salad, dinner roll and shrimp cocktail). We settled for the breakfast buffet, which was just as impressive.

After our scrumptious breakfast, we practiced our shooting skills, and checked out the rest of the place. Erik was quite the sharpshooter. I held my own. I rang some bells, and knocked down some cans. It was a proud moment.

Amarillo was fun, but Colorado was calling. Let's get this vacation started.