Kompressor (Instruments: SYNTH, CRUSH, FEAR, DEATH) does not dance, but he is an instructor for the children. His children’s songs, available for download here alongside his other music describing his upcoming world domination, is what you might expect if Trent Reznor were to appear on Sesame Street. If you enjoy the music, you may also want to watch a few videos he’s made available. Actually, after watching them, it looks like Kompressor does dance.

At 6pm yesterday evening, the thermometer on the back porch read 108 degrees. I’m willing to give it a few degrees of innacuracy, but it was still too darned hot.

Croquet mallets versus softball bats -- only one will survive!

A Betty Bowers type has written an amusing letter to the editor of our local newspaper.

In typical Eric style, I let a major event in a family member’s life go by unmentioned (cf. “I’m a bad family member.”). My youngest sister graduated college a week ago today, after seven years (or so) of classes, a marriage, and two and a third children. She can now teach teens our language, literature, and the art of drama. Many, many congratulations, Lauryl! Remember, if you ever need a break from teaching, you can always come help weed carrots.

The next time you’re in Eldon, Iowa, stop by the Dibble House, best known as “that house behind the dour couple in American Gothic “. And did you know that the couple was supposed to represent a typical American small town resident and his daughter, and not a husband and wife? Perhaps Grant Wood could have been more clear.

Self Portrait in Lego

Generally speaking, the muscle of whales tastes like horse meat. It’s The World Whale Eaters Union!

Here’s a fantastic presentation of the geologic history of the western US, complete with very detailed maps. It’s things like this that make me wish we had lifespans of at least several hundred years. There are so many interesting things to learn, and only 100 years isn’t near long enough to learn them all.

Sure, you’ve seen pictures of Meteor Crater, Arizona, but are there any impact craters near you? Probably. Found at the always good Poor Clio.