Jamie's Rabbits

The {Guest} Post About Having Kids vs. Not Having Kids

noreply@blogger.com (Jamie) — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 14:29:00 +0000

Today's guest rabbit stalker is Ricky Anderson of Ricky Anderson. Yeah, I can hear it. I bumped into Ricky on the internets through a circle of crazy people (see my Twitter feed) and we became friends. Friends who read each others' blogs. Friends who let each other win at Words With Friends. Yes Ricky, I'm letting you win every game...you're welcome. Ricky is funny...in my favorite way...quick and subtle wit. Enjoy and comment.

Oh, how we used to laugh.

My wife and I would pull up at a store or restaurant, and there we'd see it - the tall-tale minivan.

We'd park and start the timer while we watched.

Door open. Parent out. Sliding door open. Toys fall out. Parent curses and tosses toys back in. Parent unbuckles kid. Toy flies over parent's head. Parent turns red. Kid screams in parent's face. Parent drags kid to back of minivan and opens back hatch. Stroller falls out. Parent yelps in frustration. Kid continues screaming and starts kicking. Parent tries to unfold stroller. Parent tries to unfold stroller. Parent kicks stroller. Stroller unfolds parent. Parent stuffs gyrating squawkbox in stroller. Parent slams back hatch.

Time! 6 minutes, 14 seconds. We'd laugh as we got out and walked to the front door faster than the baby parade.

Fast-forward a few years, and now we've got our 5 month old son, Evan. Who's timing us?

Which got me to thinking about Having Kids vs. Not Having Kids...

Having Kids

Seeing your baby's smile first thing in the morning

Not Having Kids

Sleeping in past 5 AM.

Having Kids

You pack so many provisions for a 7 minute trek to Nanny's house that you look like you're about to embark on the Oregon Trail.

Not Having Kids

You can decide to go on vacation, book a flight, pack and get to the airport, all in under 2 hours.

Having Kids

Seeing how much your baby loves you and completely relies on you.

Not Having Kids

Far less poop.

Having Kids

Creating a safe and nurturing environment for your baby to grow up in.

Not Having Kids

You can actually leave the house and see your friends.

Having Kids

Getting home from work and hearing your son squeal in delight just the sight of you.

What are some differences you've noticed between Having Kids and Not Having Kids?

Ricky Anderson writes stuff. Sometimes people read it. Sometimes he gets boring. That's when he has others write for him. He's on Twitter. He's currently a network administrator at an accounting firm, but he's open to being a movie star.

Jamie's note: Read his blog. Follow him on Twitter. I mean it.

Nathan Fillion loves Ricky. But in a cool dude way. Hopefully.

The Post You Write By Sharing Your Junk. The Good Kind.

noreply@blogger.com (Jamie) — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 22:49:00 +0000

I've not been a very good blog reader.

If the unread posts in my Google Reader were actual rabbits, then it would be the episode of Hoarders that breaks Twitter.

My heart has been sitting at your blog's feet listening intently, but my ADD has been running in circles in your blog's backyard twitching and quoting lines from Clueless.

SO CHECK IT.

Please link up something in the comments you wrote in January that demands my attention and I will give it. It can be funny, moving, informative, or poetic.

And by "poetic" I mean it should rhyme.

{image: Jamie}

The Post About The Rabbit Recommends v.107

noreply@blogger.com (Jamie) — Sun, 29 Jan 2012 12:00:00 +0000

Each week or so I post a readable or watchable and/or a listenable of which I'm fond. You can choose what happens after my recommendation. Ignore, embrace, debate. Earlier volumes of The Rabbit Recommends can be found here.

Listen

My affection for karaoke in my kitchen has led to a love of cover songs. There's something about a great artist paying homage to another great artist that makes me want to sing out loud like a not-so-great artist.

Here's 10 of my favorite covers.

1. The Civil Wars covering Disarm by The Smashing Pumpkins

2. Katy Perry covering Black and Gold by Sam Sparro

3.Lady Antebellum covering Learning to Fly by Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers

4. Brooke Fraser covering Sounds of Silence by Simon & Garfunkel

5. Bon Iver covering I Can't Make You Love Me/Nick of Time by Bonnie Raitt

6.Kelly Clarkson covering I Know You Won't by Carrie Underwood

7. James Blake covering Limit to Your Love by Feist

8. Eva Cassidy covering Fields of Gold by Sting

9. Vampire Weekend covering Everywhere by Fleetwood Mac

10. Adele covering Love Song by The Cure

Bonus Rabbit: Sara Bareilles covering Single Ladies by Beyonce

What covers do you love?

I need to know so I can ignore the inclination to put money in savings and spend it on more music.

P.S. Did you enter the Roku giveaway? It ends tomorrow. I'm serious.

The Post About A Photo Every Day and 16 Apps To Help

noreply@blogger.com (Jamie) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 12:00:00 +0000

I'm that annoying person who wants you to stop the car, the fork, or whatever you're doing so I can take a picture with my phone.

January 2012 has led to even more mobile photography aggression because of a Photo A Day Challenge created by Fat Mum Slim.

I like everything about it. I like:

1. Telling my story with pictures.

2. Being guided in each chapter of that story.

3. Snooping on other folks as they tell their stories.

I'm already being nosy with many of you (thanks for not blocking me) but I want us all to do it. ALL OF US.

So here's February.

You can share your pics on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, your blog, or simply send them directly to my inbox : jamiesrabbits@gmail.com.

I'm serious about prying on your life.

If you're using a smartphone to capture moments, might I suggest the following apps?

Camera+, Snapseed and PolyMagic are my favorites, but every one of my children gets quality attention.

Another way to go is simply snap the pic with your camera and call it a day. You'll have to spend all that free time hanging out with friends or sleeping in, but whatever.

Comments? Concerns? Suggestions for therapy topics?

The Post About TV Kids I Wouldn't Want To Parent

noreply@blogger.com (Jamie) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 12:00:00 +0000

I'm fond of the TV show Parenthood.

I love Adam Braverman and Joel Graham and Mark Cyr. I love the premise and plot.

What I don't love is Haddie Braverman.

17-year-old daughter of Adam and Kristina.
Caught with drugs.
Whines.
Pocket dials her parents in the midst of having sex with her older boyfriend who used to be homeless.
Whines a lot.

I wouldn't want to parent Haddie. I would push her out of a moving minivan.

Here's 5 more TV kids I'm not interested in raising.

1. Candace Flynn, Phineas & Ferb

Obsessive, controlling, panicky, and paranoid. I'm pretty sure I was her carbon copy at 15. So, not good.

2. Stephanie Tanner, Full House

Jealous of one sister and annoying to the other. How rude, indeed. And those bangs. I can't help a girl who clearly can't help herself.

3. Scrappy Doo, Scooby-Doo

More like Scrappy Doo Doo. Acted tough as nails, but he's a faker. His uncle should have let him at 'em and then we would have been free from this irritating pup.

4. Henry Mills, Once Upon A Time

JUST LISTEN YOU STUBBORN FAIRYTALE PUNK. I wouldn't want to be Henry's mom, but I'd definitely want him as my lawyer. You know, if I ever needed it.

5. Harriet Brindle, Small Wonder

Nosy and hyperactive and solely focused on capturing the heart of a boy. Wait, that doesn't sound so bad when I type it out. Those are really adorable qualities.

Add to the list. Which TV kids would you not want in your custody?

P.S. Have you entered this month's Rabbit giveaway? It's a Roku. And unlike the above, you want it to live with you. Pinky swear.

The {Guest} Post About Rabbits And Their Lucky Feet

noreply@blogger.com (Jamie) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 12:00:00 +0000

Today's guest rabbit chaser is Carl Carter from Carl's Lost & Found. I met Carl in real life at a blogger shindig in Birmingham and he immediately agreed to let me be his friend. No one can resist my ~~stalking~~ charms.

{image: just.Luc}

It’s not superstition. It’s simply physics, or biology, or something…

Pity the poor rabbit.

Not the effervescent Jamie who follows her bunny trails here, but the kind with fur and long ears. People kill them, cut off their feet, dye them, add cheap chains and sell them for $2.

For the moment, let's ignore the fact that the rabbit actually had four “lucky” feet. Cultures all over the world respect the rabbit’s foot, but they have rules. In North America, it’s believed to have grown out of the African-American hoodoo tradition. In that case, it had to be a left rear foot, killed or captured in a graveyard, preferably under a full moon and shot with a silver bullet.

We all have our own ways of controlling the universe. Tim Tebow's PDR (public displays of religion) have called attention to our habit of praying for a win. Last year, during the NFL playoffs, someone posted: "The Texans have had so many challenges this season. Please pray that God will give them a win on Sunday." He didn't give them that win. Having thousands praying on both sidelines must put God in a terribly awkward position.

Leaving issues of faith aside, it still comes down to engaging in some behavior to control some part of the universe.

We pick up a penny if it’s face up and leave it behind if it’s face down. Even the penny tradition can get complicated. At Texas A&M, students on their way to an exam will stop by the statue of former Governor Sul Ross, a former school president. Supposedly, ol’ Sul had always been willing to help out a student, but he would never accept more than a penny for his trouble. So the idea must be Ross is helping turn their wrong answers into right ones.

The real luck may belong to the person who comes along next October 20 and picks up those pennies. The Aggies play LSU that day. Welcome to the SEC.

I’m not immune to this human need to control the universe. In my case, it all started when I was a kid at the railroad tracks in Woodlawn, Alabama. Everyone pretty much accepted you shouldn’t be touching anything with your hands or feet when your car crossed the tracks. Whenever we approached the crossing, we raised our hands and lifted our feet off the floorboard. It's an impressive feat when driving a straight shift.

But most of my superstitions developed independently over time. As noted in a recent post on my blog MediaGuyCarl.com - one of mine is watches. I own several. When I've had a bad day, it’s because the watch has run out of luck, so I try a different one the next day. I’ve been known to go home in the middle of a very bad day and change watches.

Another is a fear of turning 360 degrees. This only applies when walking or standing, and I’m very strict about it. When I shower and turn my back to rinse, I’m careful to turn back the same way. When I cut the grass, I make sure I alternate right and left turns. This one can get downright comical when I’ve got my two dogs on leashes and they start circling in opposite directions.

I’ll let somebody else figure out the complex psychological, biological and physical origins of these. For me, it’s just a matter of covering all the bases.

How do you cover the bases? Do you have any superstitions?

Carl Carter is a PR professional, media watcher, woodworker, grandpa, and pen turner. He loves good dogs, good beers and good burgers. Read his blog. Follow him on Twitter.

The Post About The Rabbit Recommends v.106 GIVEAWAY

noreply@blogger.com (Jamie) — Sun, 22 Jan 2012 21:56:00 +0000

Dave Ramsey, Suze Orman and the Holy Spirit combined their efforts to convince me to spend less money. On anything.

I evaluated my monthly expenses by carefully reviewing the Chick-Fil-A and Starbucks and Arby's receipts populating my handbag. The budget item of excess was clear.

Entertainment.

I asked mah internets how to make the cable bill bend to my will and the answer was "Roku."

Roku is a streaming player that connects to your TV and Wi-Fi network. Then, you can access existing subscriptions like Netflix, Amazon On Demand, HuluPlus, and more sassy channels.

I compared this device to Apple TV, Blu-ray players, gaming consoles, and other devices and the internet kept chanting "Roku."

So I canceled my cable and this lil' gadget moved in. I'm hooked.

CNET recently named Roku as one of the best gifts for under $50. Here's a 3-minute recap of highlights.

I love Roku and I want you to love it too, so I'm giving away a Roku LT ($49.99) to one lucky Rabbit reader.

How To Enter:
Leave a comment answering the following:

Name a must-see TV show.

**2 Extra Credit Entries**
Each of the following will give you 1 extra entry. Make sure to leave a separate comment for each, whether you're doing it for the first time or you've already been there, done that.

1. "Like" Jamie's Rabbits on Facebook.
2. Follow Jamie's Rabbits on Twitter.

Important Details: Open to anyone 18 or older in the US or Canada. Must enter before 11:59pm CST on Monday, January 30 to qualify. Winner will be chosen randomly using Research Randomizer and announced next week.

Note: Although Roku and I are in a committed relationship, the makers of this wonder don't know the first thing about this blog or this giveaway. Sponsored by yours truly.

{image: Jamie}

The {Guest} Post About The Unlikely Reciprocation of Irrational Crushes, Or How to Boost Your Self-Esteem

noreply@blogger.com (Jamie) — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 12:00:00 +0000

Today's guest rabbit chaser is Jessica from Meet the Buttrams. I prefer to think of her as JButtWhatWhat, as she is lovingly known on Twitter. I've not met Jessica in real life, but I'm fairly certain I could not adore her more. We share a love for Krispy Kreme, a distaste for Les Miles and a not-so-secret crush on Schmidt from Fox's New Girl.

She is short and hilarious. You've been warned.

I define the word "crush" very loosely.

I used to define it, "the super hot boy in third period my coke tab predicted I would marry," but now it's merely someone I admire and/or can laugh at (with) and/or long to store in my pocket for when I need a pick-me-up. (Smidget sister Jamie fits that criteria, PS. Traveling Rabbits!)

Additionally, I have always made it a practice to assume that my crushes were in fact secretly and desperately in love with me too, something that sort of continues today. And listen, it really helps with the self-confidence.

Here's how that worked out for me:

1. The Dad - My first irrational crush was on my friend's dad when we were in the second grade. Her mom was also our girl scout troop leader. Later that year, they got a divorce. Coincidence? I'm still not entirely convinced it wasn't because her dad thought I was especially adorable in my Brownie uniform. In my mind's eye, he resembled a mustached Pedro in Hammer pants. Hardly Brad Pitt.

Verdict: Single dad of two. Was I really prepared to be a seven-year-old stepmom?

2. The Coach - I've played soccer my whole life. When I finally got good enough to play on an elite traveling team, I JUST KNEW my coach had me sit the bench because he preferred my wit-filled sideline screaming to all the other girls on the team. Until he berated some of my teammates for being lazy by saying, "I don't expect Jessica to score any goals, but she works her butt off out there!" At the very least, he needed to work on his pick-up lines. Broken-heart revenge was mine when he later got arrested for assault.

Verdict: Anger-Management Candidate.

3. The Teacher - When my crush definition started taking on more lax perimeters, I nurtured an artist's crush on the totally sketchy fella who taught photography courses at my college. Over the two semesters I took his class, we spent more than a few hours alone in the darkroom, as well as one weird day at his house when I used his personal darkroom to develop color film. I figured Artsy College Coed was practically irresistible to a fiftyish single man who spoke fondly of his biker days...until a few years ago when he got busted for owning child pornography.

Verdict: Pedophile!

So, as you can see, not only do I have questionable taste, but I also assumed the highly unlikely outcome of requited love was IN THE CARDS, YO. And assuming these characters were actually in love with me was, in some instances illegal, but MORE IMPORTANTLY a total confidence booster.

That they actually weren't is ~~probably~~ the more beneficial outcome.

'Fess up with your irrational crushes, and make me feel more normal. Cool? Cool.

The Post About How Spanx Will Mislead Your Doctor

noreply@blogger.com (Jamie) — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 00:52:00 +0000

Isn't that a snazzy lookin' plate? We'll come back to it.

I told you a couple of weeks ago I had chosen a word I hoped would define 2012.

Peace.

Immediately after publishing that post, I drove home to find my 16-year-old lawn boy/neighbor had hit my house with a truck. You know, because God has AN AMAZING SENSE OF HUMOR.

Rabbit Sidebar: Twelve of us stood shivering as we watched my neighbor and neighbor friends take turns tying a chain to different vehicles in order to pull the truck off my house. Could I be more Southern?

God continues to challenge me in the area of peace. But instead of Moses' bush, God has been chatting it up through a wonky liver.

I've woken up on two different days and discovered a yellow version of myself staring back in the mirror.

I've been distraught.

You see, I'm a "winter" with blue eyes and mustard is not a good color on me. Also, jaundice means a trip to the doctor and the following two encounters.

My general practitioner starts feeling my abdomen for swelling.
Dr. Gray: You look like you've lost weight. Plus, your abs feel tighter which is good.
Me: Those are Spanx.
Dr. Gray: Umm...what's wrong with you?
Me: That's why I'm here doc.

Technician performing my abdominal ultrasound. Spanx removed.
Tech: Did Dr. Gray suggest what might be wrong?
Me: No, but I'd like you to locate a 30-pound benign tumor that can be removed prior to the end of my Biggest Loser contest at church.
Tech: Wouldn't that feel like cheating?
Me: Wouldn't it feel like winning?

So I find myself still undiagnosed but back to a delightful pasty pale color. I also have a new adopted nutritionist who says my plates should look like the above.

I'm on board. For now.

When you eat "healthy" what's your go-to dish?
{image: Jamie}

The Post About Sharing Your Faith at Work

noreply@blogger.com (Jamie) — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 00:44:00 +0000

"Do or do not. There is no try." Yoda.

Wise words from a wee man. The same truth applies to exercise, driving the speed limit and giving birth.

It also rings true for sharing your faith in the workplace.

I'm talking to some college students this week about that very topic. As I've prepared blanks and handouts and dry erase board maps shaped like my breakroom, I realized I have a wealth of knowledge at my fingertips - you.

So answer one or all of the following:

1. What are your tips on sharing your faith on the job?

2. What trauma have you experienced in this area?

3. What trauma have you induced?

Rabbit Illustration:

A coworker who told me she was an atheist once asked me to pray for her father who was battling cancer. I quickly agreed and asked if I could pray with her right then. She said "Yes, but don't ask God to follow up with me after He heals my dad. This is a one-stop shop."

Fast forward a few years and she loves God with her whole heart. And she bakes Baptist breakfast casseroles like a ninja.

{image: Jamie}

The {Guest} Post About Social Media: For Better or Worse

noreply@blogger.com (Jamie) — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 12:00:00 +0000

My guest rabbit chaser today is Andrew Brasfield. Andrew and I bumped into each other on the Internet. YOU CAN MAKE FRIENDS THERE MOM. We're both bloggers from Alabama and that really does bind you. With the literacy and all. Since that chance encounter, he and I have become fast friends connected via Twitter, Facebook, and all other ways except in person. But I'm sure we will meet some day and the relationship will end.

I'm much cooler on the Internet. Which is still not that cool. - Jamie

{image: webtreats}

Social media is everywhere.

Facebook badges and Shazam icons on TV commercials, QR codes on posters leading to Twitter pages, circles, friends, groups, direct messages, it's EVERYWHERE!

That could be a good thing.

The first bit of news about the Miracle on the Hudson was Tweeted. I first heard of the untimely death of Michael Jackson on Twitter. I have had celebrity interaction on Facebook and Twitter (Jason Isbell follows me. Just sayin') and I really do keep up with lots of my friends on Facebook. I have "met" people on Facebook, then met them in real life. I have met people in person once, had them friend me, then when we talk again in person a few weeks or months later, it's like we've known each other for - eh - vor.

If you have social media interactions with people - the getting-to-know-them rate skyrockets. What used to take 6 months of hanging out every few weekends to know somebody can happen within a week or two and certainly within a month. To me, that is insane. However, it is nice to meet someone in person, then really get to know them on the web. Sometimes you realize you really aren't very similar and never talk again. Sometimes you meet a friend or gain a fan for life.

By the same token, it's also a buzz kill.

If you have good news to share and tweet it or update your status, then all of the friends you would talk to in person already know about it. So when you open your conversation with, "I just got a new job and I love it and you'll never guess who I saw" they reply with, "Congrats on the new job, I hear the community college is awesome to work for and yes I also heard that Jess is back in town and will be here for another month until she flies back to Korea to teach English."

BOOM!

A whole conversation just got had and you weren't even actually in it. You were foiled by the buzz kill of social media already doing it for you. No worries, you still have plenty to talk about. Like...your Starburst wrapper chain from 8th grade (no one would blog about that.)

And so friends, let me conclude by saying social media is here to stay, even if it's people on one platform talking about why they don't understand the people who are still on the other outdated/passé/uncool platform.

What good have you seen come from social media? What's been a buzz kill?

Andrew Brasfield is a guy living in the rural South who likes to write songs, play harmonica, guitar and ukulele. He cooks and hangs with his wife and 2 daughters. Find him on Twitter.

The Post About One Word in 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Jamie) — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 23:40:00 +0000

One Word 365 encourages folks to drive past New Year’s resolutions and take a load off at just one word.

One word that sums up who you want to be or how you want to live or what you want to achieve by the end of 2012.

Based on this principle, I chose the word "cheese."

I want to be, live, and achieve cheese.

However, I've probably mastered that both in terms of food and ridulousness.

So I started chatting with God in December about what my word could be.

Me: Maybe my word could be "entrepreneur?"

God: You'll be able to spell that all year?

Me: Maybe my word should be "focused?"

God: With or without medication?

Me: Okay...what do you suggest?

God: I'll tell you...

Me: {blink....blink}

And He does what He sometimes does which is to go radio silent.

So I waited. And drove to Nashville.

While there, I attended Cross Point Church where Justin Davis shared this message:

It was crazy good. Please know "crazy" means surrounded by hipsters and mood lighting and illustrations of life's disappointments that include "...when you don't get your record deal..."

But "crazy" also means Biblical truth that's clear and sharp and destined to refine if given half a chance.

So my word is peace.

And I won't have to be the one to go buy it or grow it or whittle it out of wood. Jesus will give it.

"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid." John 14:27

This week, I took some awkward* medical tests.

And God gave me peace.

This week, a favorite coworker - a partner in good and evil - resigned.

And God gave me peace.

This week, the sun came up and then went back down.

And God gave me peace.

I hope you get peace in 2012 too.

With a fabulous side of cheese.

What's your word?

*Awkward because I couldn't wear Spanx.

{image: Jamie}

The {Guest} Post About Super Serious Resolutions

noreply@blogger.com (Jamie) — Mon, 02 Jan 2012 12:00:00 +0000

Today's guest rabbit chaser is Ellie Ann Soderstrom.

One Friday, many moons ago, @ClayMorganPA on Twitter recommended folks follow @EllieSoderstrom. I didn't know Ellie Ann, but her 140 character bio included a love for reading and writing. Since I also love to read and write...on dry-erase boards, I embraced the suggestion and followed her.

I don't think it's a leap to say we've become BEST FRIENDS FOREVER. I mean, come on. We're now even friends on Facebook, which is the second base of online friendship.

Ellie Ann is smart, funny, and most importantly - engaging - which is the key to all things good and holy on the Internet. Minus cats falling off things - no engagement needed.

Ellie Ann shares her snazzy New Year's Resolutions. These made me feel better about already failing at 2 of mine. Stupid bed-making.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

My Super Serious Resolutions

Use exclamation marks more.

It’ll add extra excitement to what would be! mundane! sentences!

Get in more food fights.

When I was a young girl (about two years ago) I spent all afternoon making pudding, spaghetti, whipped cream pies, jigglers, mashed potatoes, and a host of other food-fight worthy foods. I called everyone out to the porch to eat the pudding I had made for them, and as we started eating I insulted my husband in mock anger and threw a SPOONFUL OF PUDDING AT HIM. Oh my gosh, everyone’s eyes widened and the look on their faces was priceless. My husband threw a spoonful back at me, and then I got to yell at the top of my lungs the two most awesome words in the world: “FOOD FIGHT!”

What fun. This shouldn’t be a once-in-a-lifetime experience, it should be more like a once-a-season experience, and we can experiment with different seasonal foods to fight with. I’ve never thrown a pumpkin pie at anyone *pouty face*, something that I will remedy come this Thanksgiving. This will be the year of food fights.

Read More Comics

Being home schooled, I never got to read comics, and instead was given A Tale of Two Cities, Grapes of Wrath, Middlemarch, The Deerslayer, Robinson Crusoe, The Book of Virtues, Elsie Dinsmore, and The Scarlet Letter.

Just kidding, I never got to read The Scarlet Letter. I think it was about global warming or taking prayer out of schools or other such liberal agenda...does the scarlet letter A stand for abortion? I don’t know.

But this year, after 26 years of Classical Reading, I think I’m entitled to read some comics. So I’m going to pursue a comic book education: Batman, Captain America, Fantastic Four, Hellboy, Superman, The Flash, X-Men, The Walking Dead ... oh, and does anyone know if there’s a graphic novel of The Scarlet Letter?

Declare War On My Closets

(my closet by the end of the year)

Let’s be real. I have the organizational skills of a toddler orangutan doped out on Monster drinks and sugar cookies. And my closets look like said orangutan is living in them. It’s time to kick that monkey in the butt, and get serious about tupperware storage bins.

Give Random Items To Neighbors

This goes along beautifully with number 4!

I’m good friends with some of my neighbors, but I want to get to know some of my other neighbors better. What better way to make friends is there than to come bearing gifts? Instead of waiting for them to ask if they can borrow a cup of sugar, why not bring a cup of sugar to them first? Or hangers! Everyone needs more hangers. I could give them a bundle of hangers and then the next time we pass each other in the parking lot we can have a nice friendly conversation about the usefulness of hangers. And possibly whether we prefer plastic, metal, or wooden hangers.

I’ve also discovered we own about a dozen deck of cards. Time to give some away to the neighbors! Then the next time I pass them in the parking lot I could ask them their favorite card game, and possibly invite them over to play. And maybe ask them to bring snacks made from the cup of sugar I gave them. By the end of the year of random gifts, I suppose I’ll have tons of new friends.

Eat More Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, Eggrolls, and Homemade Doughnuts

Some days I’m in a bad mood for no apparent reason. I do not like that quality about myself. However, I find it impossible to be in a bad mood when I’m eating Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, Eggrolls, or homemade doughnuts. So obviously I need to be eating those foodstuffs more often.

Play more Games With Toddlers

Much like number 6! it’s hard for me to stay grumpy and unthankful when I’m gallomping about the room playing Alligator Attack with my kids. Hide and Go Seek, Simon Says, Mother May I, Red Light Green Light, Treasure Hunt, and last but not least: Ring Around the Rosies are good for the soul. Plus, I’ll get my excercise in. Quality giggle time with the kids should never be underestimated or forgotten, which I am wont to do sometimes. But not this year! I declare this the year of Duck Duck Goose!

What about you? What New Year's Resolutions do you have?

Ellie Ann Soderstrom is a reader, runner, watcher, cooker of eggrolls, wife to the best man there is, and mama to three adorable children. She likes to write. A lot. Currently she's collaborating on a YA steampunk with Albert Berg, and if you like aliens, robots, and a boy desperately in love with a girl then you might like it. Read her blog. Follow her on Twitter.

The Post About 10 Items I Would Like To Buy With FSA Money

noreply@blogger.com (Jamie) — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 12:00:00 +0000

Do you have an FSA account? If not, let's have Wikipedia recap for us.

A flexible spending account (FSA) is one of a number of tax-advantaged financial accounts that can be set up through a cafeteria plan of an employer in the United States. An FSA allows an employee to set aside a portion of earnings to pay for qualified expenses as established in the cafeteria plan, most commonly for medical expenses but often for dependent care or other expenses. Money deducted from an employee's pay into an FSA is not subject to payroll taxes, resulting in substantial payroll tax savings. One significant disadvantage to using an FSA is that funds not used by the end of the plan year are lost to the employee.

Did you read that last sentence?

Today I find myself with $200 in "funds not used" and I have 3 days to spend it.

The above picture is my current shopping list. It rivals the most senior of adults. Its absurdity extends to the fact I have normal blood pressure, don't need reading glasses and have no idea why one uses orthopedic inserts. Yet these are the items deemed "eligible" and seem most reasonable to purchase.

Here are 10 eligible items I thankfully don't need, but I'd like to purchase anyway.

1. Ambulance Ride. I bet there's no line and no waiting if you pull up in this at the bank.

2. Body Scan. It would be my new profile picture on all social media outlets. Because I'm confident I look hot on the inside.

3. Carpal Tunnel Wrist Supports. Like the ones Wonder Woman wore.

4. Lice Shampoo. Bottom line: Does it add volume? Can I get it in a color glaze?

5. Ovulation Predictor Test. This would aid in knowing when it may be best for me to work from home.

6. Lodging at a Hospital. Who cares that New Orleans is booked solid for January 9? I hear Tulane Medical Center has lovely amenities.

7. Guide Animal. EVERYONE WOULD LOVE MY MINIATURE HORSE.

8. Hearing Aid. Sometimes I like to pretend I can't hear. This would assist with that objective.

9. Meals at a Hospital. Lunch is on me.

10. Oxygen. Occasionally I take the stairs at work.

{image: Jamie}

The Post About Wishing You a Merry Christmas. I KNOW It's Over.

noreply@blogger.com (Jamie) — Wed, 28 Dec 2011 21:55:00 +0000

I took a break.

Did you notice?

Hopefully not.

Hopefully you and I could swap stories about living life in 4-D and stepping back from the Internet.

Although, most of my stories can actually be found on Instagram or Twitter or FourSquare. You don't even need me to wax nostalgically here to figure out what I'm doing most days.

Nonetheless.

Merry Belated Christmas.

I'm wishing you lots of this:

And its partners in crime:

Rabbit chasing commences tomorrow.

{images: Jamie}

The Post About Random Rabbits

noreply@blogger.com (Jamie) — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 23:41:00 +0000

Another post of the randomness deemed unworthy of a dedicated post.

1. Two hobbies: baking and photography. I'm mediocre at both so I'd like to focus and possibly turn one into something of substance. Unfortunately, my ADD has thrown out its "Mom Arm" and I'm not able to move forward in only one direction.

So until I can get my diagnosis beaten down, I'll continue to dabble in both.

'Tis the season for cake pops.

And there are senior portraits. With a brother thrown in for Christmas card measure.

I took Maranda's photos in a swanky park in a swanky part of town across the street from a swanky house. Then I forced her to complete her outfit change in the backseat of a car.

Because I'm classy like that.

I was encouraged that she wasn't a complete professional at that task.

TRUE LOVE WAITS MARANDA.

2. Christmas Shopping. I shared my parents' wish lists with you.

Rabbit Sidebar: If you go back and read that post, you'll discover my mother's rebuttal in the comments which includes her REAL wish list. Southern mamas and their drama.

I struggle with shopping for Christmas gifts because I'm a descendant of Adam and Eve. Therefore, I tend to buy myself nice things that are on sale and make my nieces coasters out of felt.

This necklace is Exhibit A. I went shopping at a local market for jewelry for my sister-in-law and I found this vintage book necklace from Lil' Seeds.

It can now be found around my neck.

3. S-M-R-T. Remember how I told you once about how high I scored on the ACT?

Last week, I left my car running in my office's parking garage. FOR SIX HOURS.

4. Guest Post: Today I'm guest posting at Gray Hair and Acne with a post titled Cheez-its, Robert Pattinson, and Fighting Aging. I provide 5 solid tips for kicking Father Time in the shins.

Thank you to Andi Cumbo for being such a lovely hostess. If you're a reader or a writer or somewhere in-between, then follow her on Twitter. You'll have no regrets.

5. Winner.

The lucky winner of the $50 Options Gift Card Giveaway is commenter #268 - Amanda Cook. She won for following AdoptUSKids on Facebook, but her response to the question about favorite family member is this:

One of my favorite family members is our cat, Fuzzy, because the kids love him SO much. And he lets them love on him, too. He is very patient with them, but he does keep them in line. He is the perfect cat for training them to love animals well.

Furry people need love too.

Congrats Amanda! Email me at jamiesrabbits@gmail.com to collect your bounty!

Now, Rabbit Reader, you say something. Random or otherwise.

{images: Jamie}

The Post About The Rabbit Recommends v.105

noreply@blogger.com (Jamie) — Sun, 11 Dec 2011 22:24:00 +0000

Each week or so I post a readable or watchable and/or a listenable of which I'm fond. You can choose what happens after my recommendation. Ignore, embrace, debate.

Earlier volumes of The Rabbit Recommends can be found here.

Read

Amazon and I have quite the toxic relationship. I buy books. It recommends more books. I buy them too. And all in "one-click." My apologies to my future children who will have to help mommy pay off her debt from that obsolete thing called a "Kindle." One recent rec was The Misanthrope's Guide to Life (Go Away!) by Meghan Rowland and Chris Turner-Neal. A "misanthrope" is defined for English-learners as "one who does not like people." Sadly, this sometimes applies to me, depending on how many items are in your buggy or how slow you're driving in the left lane. Meghan and Chris advise on how to manage all people interactions - parenting, work, holidays, romance, and of course, funerals. This guide is my favorite kind: sarcasm with page numbers.

P.S. This book is a Kindle loaner so if you'd like to borrow it from yours truly for free, then email me at jamiesrabbits@gmail.com.

UPDATE: This delightful book is currently free on Kindle!

Watch

When it comes to TV comedy, it's hard to compete for my affection for shows like Community, 30 Rock, and Parks & Rec. However, New Girl has won me over. The above clip is really what tugs at my heart each week: Schmidt. He is the most lovable "douche canoe" ever. Trust me, they can be lovable - I've dated a few. You can watch the last five episodes of New Girl on Hulu for free.

Listen

When I find myself in the midst of a busy season with tasks and obligations and hairs out of place, I need the occasional 3-minute mental health break. And mental health breaks should always be "dance breaks." Here's my 4 current go-to songs from the psych professional - David Guetta:

David Guetta ft. Nicki Minaj - Turn Me On

David Guetta ft. Timbaland and Pitbull - Pass At Me

David Guetta ft. Usher - Without You

David Guetta ft. Jennifer Hudson - Night of Your Life

Recommending Disclaimer: I don't suggest anything because I get it free or because I have some sort of illicit relationship with Jeff Bezos or Rupert Murdoch. I save all of those questionable dealings for Cheez-it truck drivers.

The Post About 10 More Things You Should Know How To Do

noreply@blogger.com (Jamie) — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 03:45:00 +0000

Last month I shared 10 things from the book The Experts' Guide to 100 Things Everyone Should Know How To Do that I don't actually know how to do.

There are approximately 57 more. Let's review another 10.

Send a thoughtful thank-you note. I'm facing some obstacles. First, I've not owned a stamp in 2 years. Second, I had my Dad replace my mailbox with one twice its size so I'd only have to go to it once a week. Mail is not my forte. But I send STUPENDOUS text messages. Leave your cell # in the comments and let me wow you.
Make a bed. Apparently you're supposed to have things like a mattress pad, blanket, and flat sheet. If that's true, then why did God make duvets?
Ace a job interview. If an interview could take 4-6 months, then I could do this. I'm really more of an acquired taste.
Whip up a great dinner with five items in your fridge. Honestly, I just checked my fridge and the contents are as follows: condiments, unsalted butter, hummus, 5 types of cheese and 7 types of drinks. Discuss.
Create a budget. The creating is easy peasy. It's the not moving money from the fuel or utilities or mortgage envelope to the music or coffee or chewy sweet-tart envelope.
Handle the police. I assume the police are right and can destroy me. So if I ever meet a dirty cop who's short, mustachioed, and beaten down by the system, then I'm still going to say "I'm sorry sir. Of course I will steal lunch money sir from school children sir and give it to you. Sir."
Speak at least 2 common languages. I'd like to think "Southern" is a language. I can translate phrases like "Shoot, I reckon" and "Going 'round your elbow to get to your thumb." I also understand the complex nuances of "Bless her heart."
End a date politely without making promises. I always make promises and struggle to really end it. I'm fairly certain I'm still in a relationship with my senior prom date. Hi Brian.
Dress for your body type. I prefer pretending I have a small chest, long legs and a neck.
Understand Your Pet. What I understand is that a cat will steal your breath while you're sleeping and that a bird is plotting how to peck your eyes out while your ironing clothes.

Your turn. Do you excel where I do not? Or are we kindred spirits in our deficiencies?

{image: Jamie}

The Post About Mom & Dad's Christmas Wish Lists

noreply@blogger.com (Jamie) — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 23:14:00 +0000

For many years, my family faced a common holiday problem.

Receiving gifts we didn't want.

You see, we're not really the type of mothers or fathers or brothers or sisters who make "mental" notes in June when you randomly mention a razor you think scientists created just for you so that we can later place it in your stocking with care.

No.

We're the type of mothers or fathers or brothers or sisters who squeal with delight when we realize Walgreen's is still open on Christmas Eve at 7:39pm and has one of those hot chocolate gift sets with mugs shaped like reindeer heads.

Score.

A few years ago, we decided to have a family intervention and confront this weakness.

And that Virginia, is how Christmas wish lists were born in a manger.

Jan, otherwise known as my mother, has an interesting list.

#3: Phone Card. I lovingly refer to her cell phone as a "drug dealer go phone." She should really be demanding a new phone, but those visits to the Wal-Mart kiosk may be more comforting than I realize.

#4: Shake Weight. Umm... Consider it Santa's priority that my mother receive a Shake Weight and that I film her using it.

#6: Organizer for Ms. Dixie. My mother's SUV is called Ms. Dixie. She is not racist. See #7.

#7: Darius Rucker CD.

Note: When discussing this list with my father, he tried to delete 3 of the items because he believed she didn't really want them. This is why she owns mug sets shaped like snowmen heads.

Speaking of Chuck.

#1: Lowe's Gift Cards. This is what he wants. When I gifted him with one last month for his birthday, he pulled out his wallet and added it to 4 existing cards. I furrowed my brow to which he responded "One more and I can get the chainsaw."

#2: Pair of Loppers. What are loppers? Please define in the comments.

#3, 4, 5, 6: Various. I'm not going to buy the prepackaged gift sets. I'm simply going to get a shoe box and throw in shaving cream, razors, Jimmy Dean sausage, Kraft singles, and a handful of Chick-Fil-A mints.

Note: When discussing this list with my father, he tried to delete all of the items but #1. This is why he has a wallet full of Lowe's gift cards.

How do you handle buying gifts? Are you thoughtful and listen? Do you give cash? Do you buy whatever is left on the way to the exchange?

{images: Jamie}

The Post About Adoption and a $50 Gift Card Giveaway

noreply@blogger.com (Jamie) — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 03:11:00 +0000

{GIVEAWAY CLOSED}

I've spent November baking. Let's review the sweet smut, shall we?

That's a Pecan Pie Cupcake with pie filling as frosting in the middle.

Yeah, I agree.

There was cake on sticks.

Which really is the best way to eat it.

Our beloved college football was represented. I did not discriminate, although Roll Tide.

There was a method to the kitchen madness. November is National Adoption Month and I sold some diabetic unfriendliness to raise money for the cause.

Specifically, I was raising funds for my friend/coworker Lisa and her husband Barry who are adopting a little fellow from Russia.

She even got in on the baking action. My other coworkers have been supporting her efforts too!

You can learn more about domestic or international adoption by checking out the following:

AdoptUSKids is a service of the Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families, Children’s Bureau. The mission of AdoptUSKids is two-fold: to raise public awareness about the need for foster and adoptive families for children in the public child welfare system; and to assist states to recruit and retain foster and adoptive families and connect them with children.

Show Hope is a non-profit organization that mobilizes individuals and communities to meet the most pressing needs of orphans in distress by providing 1) homes for waiting children through adoption aid grants, and 2) life-saving medical care for orphans with special needs.

As one more effort to help raise awareness about the very important issue of adoption, I'm hosting a giveaway.

Winner:

$50 Options Gift Card - Gap, Old Navy, Banana Republic, Piperlime, Athleta

How To Enter: {GIVEAWAY CLOSED}
Leave a comment answering this:
Who's one of your favorite family members? Why?

**2 Extra Entries**
Each of the following will give you 1 extra entry.

1. "Like" AdoptUSKids on Facebook or follow on Twitter.

2. "Like" Show Hope on Facebook or follow on Twitter.

Make sure to leave a separate comment for each, whether you're doing it for the first time or you've already done it in the past.

Important Details: Open to anyone 18 or older in the US or Canada. Must enter before 11:59pm CST on Wednesday, December 7 to qualify. Winner will be chosen randomly using Research Randomizer and announced next week. Obviously, anonymous folks can't win unless they leave a name in the comment.

Disclaimer: Although I'm a huge supporter of Adopt US Kids, Show Hope, and all the retailers on that gift card, none of them know the first thing about this blog or giveaway.

{photos: Jamie}

The Post About The Rabbit Recommends v.104

noreply@blogger.com (Jamie) — Sun, 27 Nov 2011 03:33:00 +0000

Each week or so I post a readable or watchable and/or a listenable of which I'm fond. You can choose what happens after my recommendation. Ignore, embrace, debate.

Earlier volumes of The Rabbit Recommends can be found here.

Listen

This is the Christmas Music Must-Have Edition.

Rabbit Sidebar: I waited patiently until the turkey was fully digested on Thursday before indulging in holiday music. It wasn't easy to withhold since there seemed to be Santa soundtracks on every corner. I wanted desperately to harmonize with each one of them.

Here's 10 songs to add to your Peace on Earth playlist.

1. Love Is Christmas by Sara Bareilles

This is brand new out of the Bareilles box in 2011. "Love is who we are, and no season can contain it." I would punch a reindeer in the face if that line could be true.

2. Be Born In Me by Francesca Battistelli

This is "Mary's Song" from the new album Music Inspired by The Story (an album I highly recommend you splurge on.) I've always fancied lyrics from the perspective of Jesus' young mom like Breath of Heaven by Amy Grant. But this one? "I'll hold you in the beginning, You will hold me in the end." I'm a wreck.

3. O Come, O Come Emmanuel by The Civil Wars

There is no Christmas song I love more than this. The very reason of the season sung by the reason for duos.

4. Mary and Joseph by Dave Barnes

I could have chosen any song from Dave's album "Very Merry Christmas" and it would have been a winner. But this one is quaint and unexpected.

5. Winter Snow by Audrey Assad

Rabbit Confession: I adore Chris Tomlin's songwriting, but not necessarily his voice. So when he wrote this beautiful conversation with Christ, I sighed with relief that Ms. Assad was chosen to sing lead.

6. River by Joni Mitchell

I first heard this song during an episode of Alias. Sydney learns her childhood was even more messed up than she previously believed. This song plays while Vaughn comforts her. I wouldn't mind Vaughn comforting me. This concept may impact my infatuation with this song.

If this description resonates, then we could be best friends.

7. I Wonder as I Wander by Audra McDonald and Mormon Tabernacle Choir

This is one of my Mom's favorites. Mine too.

8. Carol of the Bells by Straight No Chaser

This songs just screams white gloves and frosted breath to me. And guys who can sing harmony is never a bad thing.

9. Christmastime is Here by Vince Guaraldi

Charlie Brown and Kevin McAllister. Classic.

10. Winter Song by Ingrid Michaelson and Sara Bareilles

If you have a dinner party and play this song in the background, then your guests will hug you and drop twenties in your candy dish. The song is that good.

What's one of your favorite Christmas songs? What song will make you want to shoot Santa before the season is wrapped?

{image: Jamie}

The Post About The Rabbit Recommends v.103

noreply@blogger.com (Jamie) — Mon, 21 Nov 2011 03:00:00 +0000

I have 13 books on my Kindle waiting to be clicked. Let me get back to you.

Spoiler: Mindy Kaling's new book is one of them and I'm fairly certain it will make a future Rabbit Recs appearance.

Watch

My 30's brought with it a love for documentaries. I assume I'll only be watching Frontline and John Wayne films before the end of the year.

Man on Wire absolutely wrecked me because it was THAT good (rent it pronto.) So when I learned the same team behind that film had produced another... I was in. Project Nim is the funny and heartbreaking story of a chimp in a 1970s science experiment who was raised as part of a human family. And there's no way around. It's a learning experience. You re-learn that humans and animals are comical, poignant and disturbing. A lesson worth revisiting.

Listen

I fell for Gavin Degraw after hearing "We Belong Together" from the movie Tristan & Isolde. That was the same moment I fell for Mr. James Franco. Since his platinum debut release, Chariot, was such delightful ear candy - I immediately picked up Degraw's next two albums. But I was disappointed. So when his newest album, Sweeter, released this September, I would only listen via Spotify. No financial commitment. Once I realized I was leaving it on repeat every single day, I decided the buyer's risk was minimal. Must-download singles: Not Over You, Soldier, and Stealing.

Recommending Disclaimer: I don't suggest anything because I get it free or because I have some sort of illicit relationship with an old man who likes documentaries. I save all of those questionable dealings for those who comment on blog posts.

The Post About Random Rabbits

noreply@blogger.com (Jamie) — Thu, 17 Nov 2011 02:43:00 +0000

I want to write a thoughtful post about relationships or the struggle of navigating the day to day life.

But this isn't really that blog.

So let's chase some rabbits.

Leaves

They tease with their pretty faces and their falling gingerly on weekend afternoons. Then you suddenly return to reality and realize what's happened.

Your yard is CRAP FULL OF LEAVES.

Nature is overrated.

Birthday Gift

My mom bought me this canvas bag. She said it combined my love for my first initial and my name. She said it was a "wonderful and personal" gift.

She insisted I write that.

She did not insist I tell you she got it free from Vista Print.

Poor Planning

This is the caption I posted on this Instagram pic: "Specs and a ginormous hand. The former is because I'm amazing at ordering right contacts, but not left. The latter is just because."

However, I've had more than one coworker tell me I look more intelligent in glasses and should continue to wear them.

Is it paranoid to think there have been secret meetings with an agenda including how to replace the numbskull marketing director?

Awesometown

I failed to highlight one of the biggest accomplishments of my entire life - being named a Resident of Awesometown on Knox McCoy's site. I've already mentioned why I adore Mr. McCoy and I assume you now stalk him as much as I do.

My immigration into Awesometown featured the most ridiculous set of interview questions I've ever answered.

And I worked at Payless Shoes.

So scurry to read my responses. Here's a sample of the hard hitting inquiries:

If you could crystallize your life mantra into a pithy statement, what would that be?
Favorite fictional character?
Who is the Frank Sinatra of our generation?
In 5 years, time travel will not only be possible, but it will be commercialized. As such, you are invited to participate in the Laser Tag Championship of All-Time, which is no doubt sponsored by ESPN and Geico. Spanning recorded history, name the 3 people you would select for your team and why?
A song featured in the movie Juno by The Moldy Peaches contains the following lyric: “I want more fans / you want more stage.” If you were a musician, which would you prefer? More fans, which speaks to your popularity or more stage, which speaks to your superior skill level as a musician?

{images: Jamie}

The Post About Why Introverts Didn't Think I Was Adorable

noreply@blogger.com (Jamie) — Wed, 16 Nov 2011 00:23:00 +0000

I recently had a cake pop consultation with a delightful girl who is turning 8 years old this month.

Her mother sat nearby prompting her to answer my inquiries about favorite colors, design preferences, and ideas for birthday tags.

However, Ila was having none of it. She demured, avoided eye contact, and spoke a silent language to her mom pleading for rescue from this encounter.

You see, Ila is an introvert. And I am not.

And Ila sensed she was in the midst of a battle. She seemed to think I was trying to convert her. It was if she was staring out the window watching the Jehovah's Witness pull in the driveway. To speak words out loud to me would be the same as opening the front door with a pitcher of sweet tea and inviting me in.

And she wouldn't be wrong.

I'm a recovering extrovert converter.

Here's the mythical basis of my conversion theology and the realities that forced me to put down the evangicube.

Myth: Introverts are shy.

Reality: Maybe, but maybe not. It could just be they are not particularly fond of me.

Myth: Introverts don't like small talk.

Reality: It may be they don't necessarily like small talk about actors named "Matt" and why people drive slow in the left lane.

Myth: Introverts are weird.

Reality: There's a black pot on the stove and a plank in my eye.

I'm now an educated extrovert. So no more trying to turn the introvert or heal them from their alleged affliction. Introverts, you are welcome here. There is no condemnation in Christ.

There is also no condemnation in not dancing on the table with me.

As for Ila...This is how she "said" thank you at the end of our cake pop meeting.

She ignored that door bell and The Watchtower magazine tucked in the screen door and went about her way.

{image: Jamie}

The Post About The Rabbit Recommends v.102

noreply@blogger.com (Jamie) — Sun, 13 Nov 2011 21:17:00 +0000

Each week or so I post a readable or watchable and/or a listenable of which I'm fond. You can choose what happens after my recommendation. Ignore, embrace, debate.

Earlier volumes of The Rabbit Recommends can be found here.

Read

Yep, I read Steve Jobs by Walter Isaacson (on a Kindle which felt slightly disrespectful.) It was everything I hoped for and more. I wanted an understanding of the man behind the brand. I wanted lessons I could apply to my own life. I wanted juicy gossip that a behind-the-curtain biography can often bring. It delivered. The unexpected surprise was the insight about adoption. I think it's a must-read for every adoptive parent, particularly if you adopt an infant. Nature and nurture are both powerful and one is never sufficient in telling a person's whole story.

Disclaimer: There were moments when it felt tech heavy and my ADD may have skipped a few paragraphs.

Watch

I originally gave this show a shot because the lead character was played by Andrew Lincoln. I've crushed on him since he held up posters describing his unrequited love to Keira Knightley in Love Actually. Am I the only one? Seriously...The Walking Dead on AMC is per. fec. tion. It follows a small group of survivors trying to find a new home fenced off from the undead after a zombie apocalypse. For the record, I think zombies are ridiculous. I also think this show is superb. Catch up on the first season on Netflix.

Listen

I wandered around iTunes Genius recommendations this week and they were just that. Based on my adoration for The Civil Wars, it suggested Elenowen. When I expressed my disappointment about having not heard of them before now, Twitter pointed out they were on the TV show, The Voice. I explained that Christina Aguilera and I are in a legal dispute since she stole $7.99 from me with her last album, Bionic. Therefore, we try not to cross paths.

Get thee to Brite Revolution and listen in on Elenowen's live session and download it for free. Also, Save Me and The Storm, two excellent album tracks, are also available for free download.

Recommending Disclaimer: I don't suggest anything because I get it free or because I have some sort of illicit relationship with Apple or zombies. "Illicit" is really not the right word.