Month: February 2020

London Calling

I've learned some really cool things about the Black Hills during the course of my job. Like the fact that there is a secret chamber behind Abraham Lincoln's head on Mount Rushmore that functions as a time capsule of sorts for future generations. It contains copies of important historical documents like the Declaration of Independence, … Continue reading London Calling

Conflict of Interest

I got burned by an Englishman yesterday. Not physically burned, as in, he spilled his scalding hot tea on my arm while reaching for a crumpet. (By the way, I've never met a stereotype I didn't fully embrace.) Instead, I refer to the definition in Urban Dictionary: A usually sarcastic and insulting comment, devised to burn someone's emotions. What … Continue reading Conflict of Interest

I Myth You: Truths About V-Day

Happy Valentine's Day, if you're into that sort of thing. Funny, the only time I ever cared about V-Day was when I didn't have anybody to share it with. Back then, I was all, "Woe is me! I'm all alone while all these couples are having romantic celebrations!" I didn't even really know what these … Continue reading I Myth You: Truths About V-Day

Pretzels are the New Pickles

There are surprisingly few things I miss about living in the PNW. Family and friends, of course. Powell's Books. Liberalism. But most of my fondest memories are tempered by reality: the worsening traffic jams, the median home price inching ever closer to $400,000. Tara longs for the ocean at times, and while the ruggedly beautiful … Continue reading Pretzels are the New Pickles

The Verdict is In: My (1st) Experience as a Trial Juror

If I've been incognito this week, my apologies. I was called for jury duty and, somewhat to my surprise, actually chosen to serve. I've had a couple of close calls over the years, but this was a first. It turned out to be a fascinating experience, one that gave me a rare opportunity to play … Continue reading The Verdict is In: My (1st) Experience as a Trial Juror

Delightful to Frightful

Anybody searching for proof that South Dakota's weather is bipolar need look no further than Saturday morning's forecast. We didn't quite hit 70º yesterday, but came damn close. 68.7º, to be exact. It was so warm that Tara and I took a walk around Canyon Lake wearing nothing but t-shirts! Well, okay...we had pants on, … Continue reading Delightful to Frightful