Smooth Operator

Let me just say, for the record, as I break my fast with a big bowl of ice cream, that I wish I'd thought of this transgression sooner. It's hard to imagine a better remedy for a scratchy throat and an itchy soul. "Mmmmmmm": the sound the gears make as they get lubricated before starting the daily grind.

Diversity in the Marketplace

I'm at the toy store with Skylar, who is picking out a new Barbie. I could swear that the percentage of darker-skinned dolls has increased threefold since the last time she spent an extended period making a selection with me, roughly a year ago.Because this is Tucson, that means there's certainly more color on the shelves than in the aisles.

Enjoying It While It Lasts

I'm not sure whether a pre-preseason poll should be capable of inspiring much excitement, given all the variables in play, but I'm psyched to see the Bears winning some early recognition from the one ESPN writer who treats the Pac 10 fairly.