Engaging the Muslim World by Juan Cole

I picked this book up from the library yesterday afternoon. I tend to disagree with Dr. Cole's world view but find him to be a well informed individual on all things Middle East. I have certainly adjusted my viewpoints as a result of his informed comment blog recognizing that there is the fundamental disagreement that every Christian who believes in the Great Commission will have with those who do not hold to the Supremecy of Christ. Nonetheless, it is worthwhile to read those who disagree with us especially on subjects such as the one tackled by Dr. Cole

Ron Paul on North Korea

Dr. Paul certainly makes a lot of sense but is he right?

Nain Rouge - The Red Dwarf

My son, Josiah, illuminated me as to this interesting bit of Detroit folklore - The Red Dwarf! He came across this while reading Weird Michigan. Read more at Spooky Michigan or at Wikipedia. Short clip over at the Virtual Museum.

This myth may actually explain some the strange happenings in Detroit...The City Council's strange ways for starters!

The New Dog

This morning Robin left for church and on the way witnessed a man dropping a dog into our local park. She promptly picked the dog up and brought her home with the intention of shipping the dog off at the shelter Tuesday Morning. Well, as the day went on with a trip to Robin's mothers and as the kids played with the dog it became increasing clear that a good faith attempt would have to be made to keep the dog. On the way home the we debated names and finally John recommended Coco - a winner. Robin then added May - no debate since her name - Frenchie, was shot down in flames. So we have Coco May - approximately 3 month old female beagle joining an already large household.

The cats are not too pleased but do not seem to be reacting badly. WE have the dog cordoned off in the boys room so hopefully the transition will go smoothly.

Farscape

Robin and I are quickly becoming fans of the now sadly defunct Sci-Fi Series Farscape (though rumors abound with webisodes etc...) I first heard of this series from a co-worker and ordered a DVD via Netflix. It took me a couple of shows to get hooked but Robin observed the strength of the series from the first show.

Netflix begins with the second season which may have explained the lack of connection that I felt until I began to gather some of the history from the episodes that we viewed. Last night I came across the first season and first episode on the internet. We viewed that show with great pleasure as we put more pieces in to the puzzle and began to make connections which brought the series greater depth in my eyes.

The plot centers around an astronaut John Crichton launching an experiment flight from a space shuttle and going through a wormhole into a previously undiscovered galaxy. He meets up with escapees from the Peacekeepers and the series then rotates around their adventures maintaining their freedom and various other adventures.

The characters seem rather unique such as Zhaan - a plant like creature that looks human (think photosynthesis!) Pilot who is biologically attached to the ships nervous system. Yes, the ship, Moya, is a living creature! Ka D'argo a warrior that bears resemblance to Chewbacca and who has a broadsword that can transform into a rifle. Aern Sun, a peacekeeper turned renegade. Rygel, a Henson Puppet, who is a disposed ruler and adds colorful arrogance coupled with arrogance. Chiana ...and a host of others.

Pat Buchanan on Obama and Cheney

I think Pat Buchanan hits the mark on last weeks about face by President Obama and the torture commissions that some in Congress are demanding. Political pragmatism rules the President's actions and those on the left will continue to be disappointed until they learn this truth about President Obama. It is like Pat Buchanan writes another attempt by terrorists is inevitable and he does not want the finger of responsibility pointing at him and his administration.

Jack Kemp R.I.P

Sorry to read that Jack Kemp died yesterday after a battle with cancer. I appreciated his "bleeding heart" conservatism.

Here, too, is a link of some remembrances from Jim Wallis.

BTW, he was another quarterback drafted by the Lions but cut only to find fame elsewhere...