Into the Wild, well, sort of

So I'm heading out into the great white north tomorrow for my first-ever dog sledding trip. If I don't lose a finger or part of my nose I'll consider it a successful adventure.

Supposedly there's an opportunity to take a polar bear plunge of sorts at the end of the trip. I'm posting that now so you, my faithful readers, hold me to it and will rip on me in case I wimp out.

Hoping for some exciting pictures to follow. I'll see you in a few.

St Vincent

Last night a few of us saw St Vincent both rock out and woo the audience at the Cedar Cultural Center. As St Vincent walked past us off the stage, my friend Jeff summed the evening up best: "she's adorable".

AND, she can play one mean guitar.

But don't take my word for it; see what my African sister across the pond listed as her top album of 2007.

Lunar Eclipse

Anyone catch the lunar eclipse last night?

I didn't bring out my camera for the eclipse because the last time I tried to photograph the moon it was either too bright and washed-out or too dark without enough contrast.

However, I did learn recently that on average, the moon moves the size of its diameter about every two minutes. So keep that in mind next time you take a long exposure at night...

I'm interested in too much stuff

That's my memoir in six words. See others and share yours here.

The Current Saves the World

Call me crazy, but 89.3 The Current is one of the top 10 best things in Minnesota. Actually, if the voting were up to me, I'd put it into the top 5. Maybe even top 3.

It's a place where real people (not faceless DJs) play real music -- not just the over-produced Nickelback-wannabes that Clear Channel and MTV try to throw in your face. Tonight, on this lovely Valentine's Day, Mark Wheat has been serenading us devote listeners with the top love songs of all time. Come midnight, they will kick it Wedding Singer style and play the top break-up songs of all time.

Curious to see what made the list? Check out The Current's playlist.

Could you ask for anything more?

Happy Don't Get Tossed into the Doghouse Day!

Walking into Target tonight around 9:30, I stumbled across a group of men desperately searching for what surely must have been the most thoughtful and meaningful way to show their undying love for their significant others. It was a Hallmark dream come true.

I don't know about you, but nothing says "I love you" like buying a greeting card that someone else took the time, energy, and thought to create.

And that, my friends and random readers, is why Valentine's Day sucks.

Smart Car

Tonight I saw my first state-side Smart Car pulling onto Minnetonka Blvd in wonderful St Louis Park. I had heard they were coming to the U.S., but didn't realize how soon...I have to admit, it looked a little funny sitting next to an SUV at a stoplight, but I do like them. I can't fit into them, but I like 'em.

Polling Place Photo Project

Thanks to my trusty VSL newsletter, I was informed about the NYT Polling Place Photo Project in time to play an active role in history. I had planned on attending the caucus tonight anyway, so it didn't take a whole lot of convincing to bring along my camera.

The idea behind the polling project is fairly simple:

The Polling Place Photo Project is a nationwide experiment in citizen journalism that encourages voters to capture, post and share photographs of this year’s primaries, caucuses and general election. By documenting local voting experiences, participants can contribute to an archive of photographs that captures the richness and complexity of voting in America.

This was my first caucus, and although I didn't stay till the end, I did linger long enough to soak up the energy in the room. There was definitely a buzz in the air, and you could get a genuine sense that this is what the U.S. is all about -- every age, race, and socioeconomic status coming together to make their voices heard. It's a brilliant idea.

I snapped a few photos for the project, but didn't want to be overly obtrusive since voting can be a very private experience for some people.

Two highlights from the night:
1. Seeing Al Franken
2. Overhearing a teenager whine, "Mommy, I want to go vote now."

It's Good to be a Guy

Had a guy's getaway this past weekend over in Hayward, WI. The highlight for me was playing hockey out on the freshly shoveled (thanks Achter) patch of frozen Sand Lake with two broomsticks, a squeegee, and a shovel. Halftime consisted of peanuts, beers, and a discussion on the finer points of playing hockey without knowing how to stop. Good times.