Parents, Hippie Talk, and Knope/Swanson 2012

(I'm going to continue blogging as if I didn't take a 4 month hiatus.)

Well, my parents just left after a week visit. Within five days I went to Beverly (south side of Chicago where my mom grew up) to visit family, a Cubs game, Jersey Boys, Wendella boat tour on the Chicago River, the Botanical Gardens, Maifest, and a White Sox game. I feel like I should earn some merit badge from the Chicago Tourism Board. Not only is that a bunch of different activities, but I was all over greater Chicagoland. Needless to say, this weekend I laid very low trying to restore my depleted energy reserves that this introvert needs. Also, I better get restocked before my mom and sister come back through town Friday-Sunday! My sister and brother-in-law are moving from D.C. to Minneapolis, so this is part of the moving brigade as they head west.

If I have to watch the short version of this commercial one more time on Hulu, I'm going to go absolutely crazy (start at 30 seconds if you want to see the short version).

First, the "hippie talk" line is forced and crazy (a more apt line would use such words as "left wing," "socialist," "liberal propaganda/agenda," "tree-huggers") and the condescending tone in which he replies to his dad makes me want to throw something at the TV. It also might be the its repetition ad nauseam on Hulu. Who knows?

Speaking of TV, does anyone else get a little nostalgic watching the Christmas episodes of TV shows during the summer? I sure do.

I think I'm going to write-in Leslie Knope for president this year. She seems to be the only politician I'm excited about in 2012. I may even have to get a bumper sticker. If she could just put Ron Swanson on the ticket with her...a boy can dream! I guess one of the perks of living in Chicago is missing out on all the presidential campaign commercials since we're blue as Eiffel 65.

I've just started reading George MacDonald and am loving it. I'm a sucker for Christian mythmakers (Tolkien, Lewis, L'Engle, Rowling), and he seems to be one of the ancestors of all of them. I truly believe that good stories help people live their stories better. Everyone needs a good dose of fiction in their lives.

Also, new poll: Who's your favorite Beatle? Feel free to explain your answer in the comments section...especially if you pick Ringo.

Okay, that's all for today. Later.