Took some pictures around town today, Tennessee is going to explode in color the next couple weeks. Looking forward to hitting the Natchez Trace Pkwy, Smoky Mountain Park/Cades Cove and the Cherohala Skyway before the month is out.

I bought the Star Trek Alternate Reality DVD set this weekend (really good set), just wrapped up the mirror universe story arc. The set includes "Parallels", in which Worf is pulled from one universe to another. Every time I watch this one, I start thinking about the concept. I do believe, as Data explains, that each action we take does occur in alternate universes. History (channel) did an episode on "The Universe" about this subject, and most physicists on the show agreed with the concept. My roommate on the road watched it with me, he was appalled at the idea, thought it was a joke. So, what do you think?

Do you believe in parallel universes?

Source: [link]

Nashville area Greenways (public paved bike/walk paths, great for exercise on a bike) are imposing a speed limit on bikers, 15mph is not fast enough to get the heart going on a bike. As someone who (used to) bike the Greenway daily (still do when I can), I am vehemently opposed to such restrictions. We use all precautions we can to inform pedestrians we are passing them, but most have their own mp3 players up, and either do not hear or ignore our warnings.

Furthermore, drivers have NO RESPECT for cyclists’ period, often refusing to share the road with bicycles. It is dangerous to be forced to bike on the side of traffic, as it is illegal to bike on sidewalks. Murfreesboro (TN) does have several bike lanes, but they do not uniformly connect the city, and are non-existent in the county. In a world of rising fuel costs and environmental conscious, there will be more of us sharing the road; we need to find a way to coexist. Where’s a cyclist to go? It is not our fault that we chose to exercise and live a more active lifestyle.

Something I created on the subject: [link]

Browsing DA's photographers, I see many people watermarking their photos. I usually size mine small enough that nothing significant can be done with them. Still it seems more professional to add a small signature in the corner, what do you think? Whats your opinion on borders? I have only recently started adding borders, but find they compete with the picture sometimes.

Dear Alcohol,

First and foremost, let me tell you that I'm a huge fan of yours. My friend, you always seem to be there when needed. The perfect post-work cocktail, beer at the game, and you're even around in the holiday's hidden inside chocolates as you warm us when we're stuck in the midst of endless family gatherings. However, lately I've been wondering about your intentions. While I want to believe that you have my best interests at heart, I feel that your influence has led to some unwise consequences:


1. Phone calls:

While I agree with you that communication is important, I question the suggestion that any conversation of substance or necessity takes place after 2 a.m. Why would you make me call those ex-boyfriends / girlfriends when I know for a fact they do not want to hear from me during the day, let alone all hours of the night?

2. Eating:

Now, you know I love a good meal, but why do you suggest that I eat at WHAT-A-BURGER, or JACK-IN-THE -BOX, or DENNY'S and some cold French fries (washed down with WINE & topped off with a Snickers bar after a few cheese curls & chili cheese fries)? I'm an eclectic eater, but I think you went too far this time.

3. Clumsiness:

Unless you're subtly trying to tell me that I need to do more yoga to improve my balance, I see NO need to hammer the issue home by causing me to fall down. It's completely unnecessary, and the black & blue marks that appear on my body mysteriously the next day are beyond me. Similarly, it should never take me more than 45 seconds to get the front door key into the lock.

4. Furthermore:

The hangovers have GOT to stop. This is getting ridiculous. I know a little penance for our previous evening's debauchery may be in order, but the 3pm hangover immobility is completely unacceptable. My entire day is shot. I ask that, if the proper precautions are taken (water, vitamin B, bread products, aspirin) prior to going to sleep/passing out face down on the kitchen floor with a bag of popcorn, the hangover should be minimal & in no way interfere with my daily activities. Alcohol, I have enjoyed our friendship for some years now & would like to ensure that we remain on good terms. You've been the invoker of great stories, the provocation for much laughter, and the needed companion when I just don't know what to do with the extra money in my pockets. In order to continue this friendship, I ask that you carefully review my grievances above & address them immediately. I will look for an answer no later than Friday 3pm (pre-happy hour) on your possible solutions & hopefully we can continue this fruitful partnership.



Thank you,

Your biggest fan


P.S. THINGS THAT ARE DIFFICULT TO SAY WHEN DRUNK:

1. Innovative

2. Preliminary

3. Proliferation

4. Cinnamon



THINGS THAT ARE VERY DIFFICULT TO SAY WHEN DRUNK:

1. Specificity

2. British Constitution

3. Passive-aggressive disorder



THINGS THAT ARE DOWNRIGHT IMPOSSIBLE TO SAY WHEN DRUNK:

1. Thanks, but I don't want to have sex.

2. Nope, no more beer for me. (Thats me)

3. Sorry, but you're not really my type.

4. Good evening, officer. Isn't it lovely out tonight?

5. Oh, I couldn't. No one wants to hear me sing