ghost stories

"Heart-Shaped Box" is a ghost story about an aging rock star who buys a ghost in an online auction. The ghost turns out to be much more real, and *much* more evil, than expected... I agree with Time Magazine's assessment that it's "suitably vicious & cathartic."
Mike Carey's The Devil You Know is also compelling fiction, featuring a London exorcist facing evil antagonists both living and dead.
What ghost story would you suggest?

tiny art

Willard Wigan makes very small works of art--like this sculpture of the Statue of Liberty inside the eye of a needle. He also has a tiny Titanic, Elvis, a boxing match and King Henry VIII--with all six of his wives.

This "Daily Mail" article has more info, and more pictures.

via Randy Cassingham's This Is True.

diet

I'm starting a new diet today--the first in a long time. Drastically reduced calories, and exercise every day, all in a spiritual context. If I can see this as a sacred quest, and not mere self-denial, I think I'll be more successful.

I will allow myself coffee (with cream and sugar) every morning, and one "free" meal per week with my wife.

25 skills

Besides the 25 things on Popular Mechanics' list of "25 Skills Every Man Should Know" (below), someone has already added "cook and care for a loved one." Perhaps the PM editors believe it more of a female trait, but I would add "maintain authentic relationships with others." Leaving aside the gender-exclusive nature of the list, what skills should human beings possess in the 21st century?

Their list:
1. Patch a radiator hose
2. Protect your computer
3. Rescue a boater who as capsized
4. Frame a wall
5. Retouch digital photos
6. Back up a trailer
7. Build a campfire
8. Fix a dead outlet
9. Navigate with a map and compass
10. Use a torque wrench
11. Sharpen a knife
12. Perform CPR
13. Fillet a fish
14. Maneuver a car out of a skid
15. Get a car unstuck
16. Back up data
17. Paint a room
18. Mix concrete
19. Clean a bolt-action rifle
20. Change oil and filter
21. Hook up an HDTV
22. Bleed brakes
23. Paddle a canoe
24. Fix a bike flat
25. Extend your wireless network

crop walk

I am participating in our local CROP walk, to combat hunger, both locally and globally. You can sponsor me online by clicking here.

meth-fired orgies

Please read the Rev. Keith Kron's response to this letter as posted on the Rev. Dr. Daniel O'Connell's blog.

Yeah, Keith. So may we be.