October’s 8

Well, this is my 12th monthly 8. We’re closing in on one year here at GBiotI.

Practice – I’m trying to teach myself a better handwriting style. At some point I tried to mask my horrible penmanship by writing in all capital letters, but I’ve gotten lazy again. My I’s, Z’s, T’s and L’s all look the same and my 4′s, 7′s and 9′s are indistinguishable to everyone but me. I can pull it together to leave someone a note, but other than that, I may as well be writing in sanskrit.

Challenges – I’m giving myself a goal. It’s partially inspired by a coworker’s insistence on fully digesting a record before buying a new one and partially stolen from Noel Murray’s column: I’m going to listen to my entire music collection. My computer tells me this will take several weeks of nonstop listening to accomplish, but I’ll take a more punctuated approach. My goal is to listen to one album a week every week. I’ll post updates and observations here (if they’re interesting).

Convenience – Linda’s move-in exposed some glaring holes in my adult facade. Specifically, she asked me where basic household items were, only for us both to realize I didn’t own these items. I guess I’ve gotten along fine without clothespins, a garlic press or glue, but now these things are there…just in case I need them. I used a garlic press today. It’s much easier than hand mincing.

Cryptozoology – An apparent bigfoot sighting in nearby Fairdale has exposed the beast. The Fairdale Bigfoot is on Twitter, Facebook and he writes an advice column.

Going legit – CBC is now offering an official Wiretap podcast. Next up, Age of Persuasion (please).

Confusion – There’s a bar called Marmaduke’s in Louisville. I haven’t been inside, but judging by the mural out front, it’s not a place I want to go. (I don’t like the Marmaduke comic strip).

App – About a decade ago (give or take), I discovered McSweeney’s Internet Tendency. Like any comedy-loving teen, I was hooked. But about four years ago I stopped checking the site regularly. I’d swing by for a quick laugh and go through phases of catching up on what I missed, but it wasn’t a priority visit. I’m not sure why this happened, but now it’s un-happened (or something). The Small Chair iPhone app has become my new #1 time killer.

Hack - A friend helped me put the Homebrew Channel on my Wii. It’s pretty great. I’ve spent the last hour or so playing Earthworm Jim on an emulator. I was a lot better at video games when I was younger. I was also a lot more patient.