Visual Eminent Domain
I have mixed feelings about this. A few years ago, my in-law's neighbors tore down their rambler and built a very tall 2 story in its place, blocking the lovely view of the mountains Tom and Carol had previously enjoyed in their backyard. This included a view of the peak where Scott and I became engaged, so I was bugged. Prior to construction, I had a friendly conversation with the sister of Tom and Carol's neighbor. She asked if I had seen the demolition. I said that I had, and that we all hoped the view wouldn't change too much. The neighbor's sister just said "oh, they don't care about the neighbors" and walked away. Now, I don't think you can begrudge someone their rightful airspace. But at least have a little sympathy for those downhill from you! Smile apologetically, build your skyscraper. This has all been brought back to my recollection due to a dispute in Bountiful (I think) that has been in the news lately. In response to the complaints of neighbors, a view-blocking home builder conjured this lovely view-enhancing design for the rear of his home. A warning to anyone who might ever want to complain to their neighbors!
p.s. this picture was taken from a church parking lot. (rolling my eyes)

Former president Gerald Ford has been in the news over the past couple of weeks after spending some time in the hospital- I think with heart trouble. I know this, because I was watching the news when it was reported, and I fell apart laughing. Dana Carvey has ruined me (and Scott, for that matter) for any news about Gerald Ford, ever since we saw his SNL sketch where he played Tom Brokaw reporting GF's death. The premise was that Tom was going on vacation and NBC wanted him to pre-record breaking news stories in case they happened while he was gone. Here is a wee sample of that sketch.

Here It Goes Again
If you have not yet seen the OK Go treadmill video, please watch now. I promise, this will probably be the coolest thing you see all week! Many thanks to Rhett, for pulling this up for our enjoyment a few days ago.

Hooray for Us
Heard on the news today that Utahns place third in the nation for longevity. (First and second were Connecticut and Minnesota, I think.) About a month ago, Money magazine ranked Sandy City the 23rd best U.S. city to live in. Something about low crime and sunshine-ability. So far, we have found Sandy to be condusive to prolificity. (A word?) Whatever. When it comes down to it, Utah may not be the hippest, but it could very well be the coolest- at least by the time February rolls around!

Mormon Urban Legend:
A Model for Yoda President Kimball's Face Was?

For years I've heard the story that when George Lucas- or was it Frank Oz- first invented the Star Wars "Yoda" character, he used Mormon Church President Spencer W. Kimball's face for inspiration. Something about his loveable, wise, respectable look supposedly appealed to him. I must admit, the likeness between the two has always prompted me to believe. With all due respect, President Kimball's ears bear a suspicious resemblance...
I've been making a half-hearted attempt to find evidence that the legend is true, but haven't yet come up with any evidence. I'm not so sure I want to know the truth. I like the whole idea, having a great fondness for both President Kimball and Yoda. Yes, I realize that the mere fact I am expending so much thought on this subject relegates me to utter geekdom (as though I have ever lived anywhere else)!
If you've got time to kill, check out Yoda's musical side. My kid's think this video is hilarious, but I don't think it gets good 'til the end. May the force be with you!