Dealing with Uncle Sam

I'm sure almost everyone has received their necessary tax forms over the last month. That includes W-2s, 1099-DIVs, 1099-INTs and 1098 something-or-others for mortgages. Not to mention student loan forms for debt, or forms if you contribute to your HSA, 401k and IRAs after Jan. 1.

Now you have until April 15 to gather all those forms, fill out the information, and file your taxes. Ugh.

I already filed my taxes; which was motivated by the fact that I knew I was getting a return for both state and federal. This year, I only had two forms: one W-2 and one 1099-DIV. That's IT. Total time I'll never get back: 45 minutes. But I'm DONE!

I have three reasons why I can appreciate my situation as an adult come tax season:

#1.) My mom taught me how to file my taxes.
Since I started getting W-2s, she's been there to help me figure out how to fill out the proper paperwork for state and federal taxes. Up until about three years ago, she filed everything by hand. (It's a bitch, don't do it.) I opted to file my taxes online. She insisted I read every page and all the directions, to make sure I didn't skip anything.

#2.) I've been filing my own taxes since I was 18 years old.
I've been employed since the age of 14, but because I didn't work that much for most of middle school and high school, the government kept their hands off most of my money. You're only required to file a tax return if you make more than a certain amount. Even if you don't meet that requirement, you can still opt to file if you think you'll get money back. Or, if you want to pay because they didn't take out enough. But that'd be damn foolish.

#3.) I worked at a bank for more than two years.
A call center to be more exact, and it was bitch come tax season. From mid-January until the end of April, people would call about forms they received, how much interest they earned, and how to file taxes. We couldn't help with the last one -- you're supposed to talk to a tax advisor. But, we had hours of training on what forms go with what accounts, and when people receive certain tax forms for savings accounts, HSAs, 401Ks, IRAs and CDs, or some loans.

Still have to file? Here are a few tips:

-Make sure you have ALL of the proper forms and information before getting started. That means W-2s, even from PT jobs (Did you work for a lawn service for two months last summer? Get paid for some after-school program with kids?); interest earned on stock dividends and savings accounts (But only if it's more than 10.00); and student loan forms. You'll need your SSN, and bank account and routing number too, if you opt for direct deposit.

-If you're getting a refund, go with direct deposit. You'll get your money in about 7-10 days, instead of 4-6 weeks.

-Most people don't have to worry about itemizing deductions on your return. That'll usually happen if you've collected a lot of unemployment over the year, own a house or make a shit-ton of money. But either way, many filing programs can help you with both.

-You have to file your federal taxes before your state.

-The most important: File online -- FOR FREE.
No matter what they say, most people don't have to pay to have your taxes done. If you made less than $56,000 in 2007, even better.
Go to irs.gov and answer some questions about your financial status. The site then automatically redirects you to one of many free tax filing service sites most suitable for you. I've been using H&R Block for the last three years.

-Do NOT pay an additional charge on the federal site you use, to file your state taxes. You can pay $30 for convenience, or spend another 20 minutes filing on a separate site. Just google your state and "free file" or "e-z file". Wisconsinites can go to www.revenue.wi.gov.

Black tongue

Last night I splurged while grocery shopping and bought some new coffee. (And I STILL stuck to my food budget for the week.) Well, really it was Roundy's brand. And it wasn't any special flavor or anything. It's "Venetian" or something like that, described as spicy with dark chocolate undertones. Whatever, it's coffee. But that's besides the point.

Anyway, since I haven't made my own coffee in well over two weeks, I was really excited to brew my own pot.

Measured by sight, I dumped some ground coffee into a filter, filled up the pot and pushed "start." MMMM, I don't even have to drink the stuff... just the smell is enough to wake me up.

Carrying on with my morning routine, I chop up veggies, started my omelet and cut my grapefruit. But oh, the anticipation. The overwhelming aroma! The ultimate complement to any breakfast.

I couldn't take it anymore. Once done brewing, I poured a steaming hot cup into my favorite chipped-handle mug, added some creamer, and took a huge gulp.

Many will tell you my tolerance for hot drinks is impeccable, but MY GOD. Instead of java bliss, my entire mouth experienced a scalding sensation. This wasn't coffee, it was boiling lava blistering my tongue and gums.

After swishing ice-cold water, I waited another five minutes before eating breakfast and drinking the rest of my coffee. Except I didn't enjoy it, because I couldn't taste anything. I still can't taste anything.

Sushi Ota

I first had sushi maybe three years ago. I was pretty apprehensive about eating raw fish. Plus, I refused to eat any kind of seafood until well into college, because I thought fish, crab, or any other thing that came out of water was disgusting. It's downright not true. Plus, there are tons of cooked options at sushi joints, and servers are more than happy to answer any questions.

Since moving to Fort, my neighbor/co-worker/friend Lisa, reintroduced me by obsessing over it's deliciousness. On top of that, I travel to the west coast more often, and they have fresh shit everywhere. And, it's absolutely tasty.

Because I'm hanging out in San Diego for the week, I figured I'd take advantage of #1.) Free food, and #2.) west coast fresh seafood. But the potential downside? Eating by yourself.

Now, you might be thinking, "Duh Erica, just eat some McDonalds. Go to In-N-Out Burger. Order room service."

I say to you: "NO!.. Don't be ridiculous. I can eat whatever I want. I have waitstaff come to my beckon call. I can order whatever suites my fancy. I can drink wine. FO' FREE." And so on, so forth.

Besides, I've learned to deal with myself, while eating... with myself. My companion? A good book.

So, on this warm, breezy evening in San Diego, I ventured to the place I had scoped out and anticipated for the entire trip: Sushi Ota.


I read reviews on my favorite restaurant site, tripadvisor.com. (Tangent: I love love love writing about food and voicing my opinion on what I think people should try out in a particular city. This site is the perfect outlet to shamelessly advertise the places I deem worthy of your dime.) That's where I found out Sushi Ota was rated number one on a list of thousands of restaurants in the San Diego area.

Before venturing to Sushi Ota, I went through their specialities, and found an awesome site to decipher that crazy Japanese terminology. I took a look at the menu, knowing that I wanted to try something with hamachi (yellowtail), hirami (flatfish, like flounder) or maguro (tuna!)... but I also like getting specialty rolls, because the sushi chefs usually make some pretty rockin' combinations.

With some research (on this site, and subsequently, others...) I found out that this is the place that Japanese-Americans go for authentic Japanese cuisine. I also learned not to be put out by the fact that the business itself was in a strip mall, or that it was small with minimal decor. That doesn't affect how amazing the food is.

I also found out it's best to make a reservation. So I did. For one.

A two-block stroll from my hotel, I ventured over about 6 PM (PST time -- a little late for my usual din).

My server, Saori, took my order for some water and a glass of Pino Grigio.

When you order sushi, the hostess gives you a menu, a sheet of paper and a pencil, so you can mark down which sushi rolls you want.

I started with a bowl of miso soup. I usually get miso, because it's a great starter that puts me in the mood for sushi. I think it's a vegatable base. Add some tofu, scallions and seaweed, and voila!

Not five minutes into my soup, and my sushi came prepared and plated -- on what looked like a raised wooden cutting board.

I ordered a tempura roll and maguro sushi. Tempura means deep-fried. Which means, tempura means delicious. This roll had tempura shrimp, with crab, avocado and cucumber. The maguro sushi came as two pieces of raw lean tuna on top of balls of rice. (In Japan, "sushi" actually refers to the rice part of what you're eating. Sashimi is the raw fish by itself.)

When plated, the chef always makes sure to put a dollup of wasabi and a pile of fresh ginger on the sushi plate. I love eating ginger inbetween each piece of sushi. Supposedly, it cleans your palate.

After enjoying this wide range of delicious foods, I decided to venture out and try something new. I decided on dessert, and chose green tea ice cream.

Saori took the order, but then asked if I wanted mochi. "What's that?"

She explained that the green tea ice cream would just have rice cake wrapped around it.

Sign me up.

Three minutes later, out came a square plate, with a rounded ball of what looked like uncooked sugar cookie dough with a hint of green, served with a tiny, three-fingered fork.

In retrospect, I'd let it sit for about 5-10 minutes to warm up... it brings out the flavor.

But my god, it was fantastic. The inside ice cream tasted like cold, frozen, sweetened green tea -- Hansen's specialty flavor of ice cream? -- wrapped in a sweet, doughy layer of sugar.

I sat and read for another 20 minutes, finishing up my glass of wine. I'd say this place definitely stands up to the hype. So, here's my shameless promotion of a great restaurant, with exceptional service and fantastic food. Bon Apetite.

Growing up -- #1: Keys

If my keys were thrown into a pile of other keys -- it wouldn't be a needle in a haystack; I could find them with my eyes closed.

Last week, I found a new keychain for my keys. I picked it up at a trade show a few months back, I'm sure... but I realized it'd be nice to have a hook to keep my keys safe when I'm flying, or hang them up when I get home. As I twisted the ring around the set of keys, I realized how much they keep changing...

I've had the same keychain of Constipated Bob since I was 14 years old. (It's actually one of those McDonald's Tamagatchi Happy Meal toys I stole when I worked there, in middle school.)

He suited my house key well. I felt like an adult, with the responsibility of not losing something that unlocked my house door. Plus, I could tell which keys were mine. That little guy's gone everywhere with me since then.

Over the years, I've placed and replaced different emblems, vacation souvenirs and band paraphernalia on my keychain, as a definition of myself. As I got older, I realized it's not necessary to have bright, bulky, noisemakers to lug everywhere. Now I have necessities.

CB stuck for nostalgia... but now I've got grown up things. The keycards to my office, gym and the library. My electronic car key remote. The Leinie's bottle opener I won when I took a tour of their brewery.

Over the years, even the keys have changed. I've had employer's service doors, shitty cars, dorm rooms, keycards and countless apartment keys attached.

I've always had the door to my mom's house. But, now I also have Michelle's shamrock spare, the Camry, and three apartment keys (WHY?!#).

Maybe soon I'll have keys to my brand new 2009 CTS-V. Or a Fiat 500.

Music week: Favorites

You’ve made it! As a reward for getting through all the lists, I’m giving you a Friday treat: I’ve supplied some “best of the best,” IMHO. What better way to end out the week than with the songs I like the most – all around. Here’s a fine collection of music I can listen to anytime, anywhere – cleaning the apartment, reading, writing, drawing, sitting at work. They suit any occasion.

Once you listen to the songs on this list (and the others lists, too), you’ll probably realize that I’m drawn to vocals. It’s not the lyrics – although those can be catchy and fun to sing in some instances – but the talented voice. I see singers as not only the a frontman for a band, but another instrument that completes the group.

Most of these are more contemporary – as opposed to the hodge podge from yesterday’s list. And after finding the videos, I realized they’re half the fun. Enjoy!



1. Wraith Pinned to the Mist and Other Games - of Montreal
Of Montreal is fucking weird. I mean, look at this video. :D They add a bunch of different instruments, and sometimes can't maintain a consistent tempo throughout one song. But don't let that scare you with this one. Some of the other songs on The Sunlandic Twins take some getting used to, but this one's catchy from the get-go.

2. Milk - Kings of Leon
Now, bear with me. This is my favorite band, but there is no other song that showcases Caleb Followill’s vocals quite as much as this... because about 25 percent of the song has no other instrument, besides his voice. If you want to hear awesome guitars to accompany Caleb, try "McFearless" or, ooh, “Charmer” too, on KOLs Because of the Times.

3. Last Night - The Strokes
My favorite college band, I kind of played them out by listening to their albums incessantly. I picked a single, so you could all appreciate them. I can still tolerate this song and listen through the whole thing because I know all the lyrics, without hearing the song. Plus, good guitar solo in the middle.

4. I'll Believe In Anything - Wolf Parade
Like Clap Your Hands, Spencer Krug’s voice takes a little getting used to. But what can I say, I'm a sucker for vocalists (with good music to back them up).

5. Finally - The Frames
See the movie Once. That's all I have to say.

6. Maps - Yeah Yeah Yeahs
This is the first song I've ever heard Karen O. sing. It makes me think she's not all tooth and nail -- and her singing doesn't just come from being pissed off, it's because she's got some aching too. Plus, listen to that guitar. And those fucking drums.

7. Golden Slumbers - The Beatles
Only one song from the Beatles you say? I tried to limit them on the list. I could probably make a Top Five of just Beatles songs for every category this week -- but I'll spare you. The Fab Four's known for merging songs together, so if you're listening to Abbey Road, you'll start with this, but make sure to listen to the two following tracks “Carry That Weight” and “The End.”

8. My Mathematical Mind - Spoon
I fell in love with Spoon about five years ago, after buying their album Gimme Fiction. This appreciation was only reinforced by the fact that the movie Stranger than Fiction offers an (almost?) exclusive Spoon soundtrack. This was the first song I would go back to and repeat two or three times before I even listened to the entire album.

9. Exit Music (From a Film) - Radiohead
Radiohead makes my top five all-time favorite bands. I like them particularly when I'm trying to do something creative, like write or draw. I chose this song mainly because of the crescendo at the end, so you have to listen to the whole thing. If the movie Children of Men ended at the extended long shot scene when he's carrying out the baby, this song would be playing.

10. Mansford Roof - Vampire Weekend
Their instruments sound like they should be playing from the 50s, but they somehow incorporate a modern sound too. I don't know how to define this band -- but I'll relate them closest to "The Strokes." Entire album is worth a listen.



Runner’s Up: 3rd Planet – Modest Mouse; Diamonds on the Soles of her Shoes – Paul Simon; Savior – Red Hot Chili Peppers; Get Myself Arrested – Gomez

Music week: Songs to escape with

My extras. And, maybe some runner’s up from tomorrow’s favorites. Here’s an eclectic mix of music from all over. I’ve got some Cuban, some jazz, blues – even some country. Most of these songs remind me of something, or someone. Or they're just really amazing.

This mix itself could be listened to for most anything – I’d say the best would be a long drive, or extended road trip.


1. Let's Boogaloo - Willie Rosario
This reminds me of Dexter, mostly because it's got some Cuban drum beats and crisp horns. Ami ami a Miami. It also makes me really, really (REALLY) excited to go on vacation to Florida next month.

2. Equinox - John Coltrane
I like listening to him when I'm cooking, especially with wine. Love when the horn kicks in.

3. Kaya – Bob Marley
When I was younger and first moved to Green Bay with my mom, she bought this album. I was in fourth grade. We listened to it to and from school for at least three months straight (along with REO Speedwagon and Michael Bolton – but I won’t hold that against her.)

4. Seven Bridges Road - The Eagles
This song reminds me of my dad. He loved the Eagles, and he kicked ass at playing the guitar. The entire album Hell Freezes Over has got to be considered one of the top five live albums ever. Great harmonization and acoustic guitars in this song.

5. El Scorcho – Weezer
I might've put "Say It Ain't So," except for the simple fact that I've heard that song at least 455,755 times in my life. Don't get me wrong, it's a great song... but this one takes the cake. Off their best album, "Pinkerton" (less pop, more rock), this is a modern-day love song about a dude that just can't seem to tell the chick he likes, that he likes her. Aw.

6. The Lighthouse's Tale - Nickel Creek
Although I'm pretty impartial to country, and this family trio might be categorized as such -- I can still appreciate their folksy sound, harmonizing voices and crisp strings, including the ukulele they play in this song. Plus, based on MrB's response to country songs, this band's great at telling a story.

7. My My Hey Hey - Neil Young
I had to put something by Neil Young on this list, namely because any album of his defines autumn, especially Harvest. It has to be the melancholy vocals, and the flat notes he plays. Otherwise, try Live Rust too.

8. Walkin' After Midnight - Patsy Cline
Yeah, more country. But this is classic. Patsy Cline has an awesome, bluesy voice, with basic instrumentation to back her up. Nothing fancy.

9. Psycho Killer - Talking Heads
Start off with the bass, and bring in the drums. Strum the guitar and bring -- this guy? He sounds fucking crazy. Yeah, it's the name of the song. I try to sing along, and the chorus is catchy -- but it's the French that holds me up. No matter.

9.5. Fearless – Pink Floyd
(I cheated with the numbering system; what of it.)
Pretty mellow – but it fits Floyd’s standards. I’d say the hypnotic, repetitive guitar between the singing is really the chorus – if that makes sense. It’s not all dreary; there’s some subtle motivation in there too – if you listen to the lyrics.

10. Little Red Rooster – Howlin’ Wolf
Just listen to his voice. He’s straining to get it out of him. Howlin’ Wolf (a.k.a. Chester Arthur Burnett) also plays a mean (and I mean MEAN) guitar. Greats like Zeppelin, The Doors, Stevie Ray Vaughn, George Thorogood, Clutch and Soundgarden have all covered his music.


Runner’s up: Tangerine - Led Zeppelin; Sweet Jane – The Velvet Underground; Everybody Wants to Rule the World – Tears for Fears; She’s a Rainbow – Rolling Stones

Music week: Songs to drive by

I can be an aggressive driver; which you might determine based on some of the selections in this list. But hear me out; the majority of these songs are based on a few criteria:
A. How excellent they sound when you roll the windows down.
B. Singability behind the wheel.
C. Loudness

And, yeah this too:
D. Aggressiveness if someone pisses me off.

At least I take it out by turning up my music, instead of getting out of my car and starting a fight.


1. Goin’ Up The Country - Canned Heat
Okay… Number one in the category. I’d say the flute really brings this one home. You need to listen to this song in late spring on a sunny day, with your windows rolled down and your arms out the window.

2. Red Morning Light - Kings of Leon
I FUCKING LOVE THIS BAND. I'm pretty sure this song was featured in a car commercial, but I don’t remember which one. One where the car flies around curves without discretion and throws up dust as it leaves you there. But if you listen to this when you're driving, you are that car.

3. The District Sleeps Alone Tonight - Postal Service
Add a little techno beat to some catchy lyrics and you've defined Postal Service. Deathcab's frontman displays his musical versatility with the entire album "Give Up." It's also pretty funny that UPS samples some of this band's songs, considering their name.

4. A Certain Romance - Arctic Monkeys
Another phenomenal Brit band, these guys are probably vulgar douchebags in real life, but they also kick ass. This is the first song I’ve ever heard from the band. I love singing it in a British accent – but it may take at least 10 times before you understand what in the hell he’s actually saying.

5. The Set Up (You Need This) - Reel Big Fish
I saw them my junior year of high school. Energy! Talent! So loud! It's my favorite song from "Why Do They Rock So Hard?" I like singing this song as loud as fucking possible, in hopes that the people around me won't necessarily think I'm weird, but absolutely crazy.

6. Waterfalls - TLC
Just for Michelle -- because nothing quite says driving 15 hours through California and Oregon like “Waterfalls,” with dancing and singing to boot. Especially when it's recorded via shitty camera video.

7. Thickfreakness - The Black Keys
A two-man band from Akron, this is the first song I'd ever heard from these guys. This album (same as the song title) is more raw (rawer?) than the ones that follow, and listening to the thing in its entirety helps when you're passing assholes on the road.

8. Excuse Me Mr. - No Doubt
Good for the highway. It's got a fast beat and catchy chorus. Plus, I like the 1850s-burlesque bridge with the piano and jazz horn.

9. Crosstown Traffic - Jimi Hendrix
Check the title. Plus, it's Hendrix. No question, there's great guitar -- but even though he still jams it's more controlled, and stays with the faster tempo. Great for cruising on a highway.

10. Longview - Green Day
From my favorite band in high school, you can't really do what this song's about while you're driving.

Runner’s Up: Let The Cool Goddess Rust Away - Clap Your Hands Say Yeah; Blinded By The Light – Manford Mann’s Earth Band; Drive My Car - The Beatles; Bad Habit - The Offspring

Music week: songs to work by

While I'm sitting in my cube, I like a more mellow mix of music to listen to while I'm responding to emails and writing up stories. Plus, it helps drowned out the obnoxiously loud sales calls and people on the phone around me.

These songs also work well for background music around the house, or for artistic inspiration for writing or drawing on my own time.


1. Parasite - Nick Drake
If I chose one acoustic artist to listen to from here on out, it’d be Nick Drake. I first heard him on the Garden State soundtrack and thought, "Wow, this guy's great. He's probably a small act... maybe he'll be at Summerfest, or some other music festival." Guess what -- he's from the early 1970s. He made a post mortem comeback only because VW decided to use the title track of his album "Pink Moon" for a car commercial a few years ago. He plays clean acoustic with a unique voice.

2. The Wolves (Act I and II) - Bon Iver
Anything by Bon Iver (His real name's Justin Vernon) is phenomenal; but also really mellow. He recorded his entire debut album on his own in the northwoods of Wisconsin. After that album "For Emma Forever Ago" was released, he gained international acclaim, and even made the Top 100 albums of the year according to Rolling Stone.

3. Cigarettes - Russian Red
I can't find that much out about her, but she has an amazing voice. She's originally from Spain, and every site I find with information on her is in Spanish, but she sings in English. Hmm.

4. Tiny Vessels - Deathcab for Cutie
The crescendo at the end of this song makes it a little louder for work, but it still keeps a slow tempo. Most Deathcab can distract me from the bustle sometimes going on outside my fabric walls.

5. Ada - The National
Great piano, and with Matt Berringer's soothing baritone voice, it helps drowned out any other crap going on around the office.

6. The General - Dispatch
I first heard this song my freshman year of college when a guy opted to play it on his guitar as his final project for Philosophy 110. I don't really know what his reason was, but I immediately went back to my dorm and downloaded the song, along with any other Dispatch song I could get my hands on.

7. The Breeze - Dr. Dog
Listen to this if you need to calm down. If you close your eyes and relax for a few minutes, you'll feel much better.

8. Sun It Rises - Fleet Foxes
My favorite new band of 2008. I usually listen to the entire album at work. This is the first track, and a great introduction to the CSNY-esque band.

9. Stranger Things Have Happened - Foo Fighters
Thanks to Gregor, I've been introduced to more Foo -- and I'm not complaining. I usually associate them with a rich, louder rock sound, but I knew they had a greater capacity when I heard the acoustic version of Times Like These a few years ago. This is my favorite song from their new album Echoes, Silence, Patience & Grace.

10. Take it Back - She & Him
Remember when Zooey Deschanel sang in the movie Elf? Well, she really can sing. She collaborated with M. Ward to form She & Him, which released their first album Volume One early last year. Sounds a little like something you might here on the radio in the 1970s.


Runner's Up: Sea of Love - Cat Power; Innocent Bones - Iron & Wine

Music week: Songs to sweat by

Update: I've added YouTube links to the songs, so you'll get an idea of what they sound like.

The first installment of Music Week involves the songs I listen to when I'm working out (they work as a secondary soundtrack to cleaning the apartment too).

I need loud music with a consistent beat to keep rhythm while I run, or work out in general. I can change my pace with these songs while keeping up with the beat, and still enjoy the music whether I’m outside or at the gym. It’s also one of the few times you’ll catch me listening to rap or techno.
1. List of Demands (Reparations) - Saul Williams
I first heard this song on a Nike commercial, and refused to rest until I found out who sang it. I mean, it has a fitness apparel commercial endorsement. If that's not enough to motivate you, you might be dead.

2. Hysteria - Muse
Not only does this song kick ass on Rockband, it also gives me motivation to run faster. The beat changes up a little, but the tempo always stays on track for keeping a great pace when I'm running. Awesome, gritty guitar with altered vocals.

3. I'm Me - Lil' Wayne
It’s rap. And, it’s Lil’ Wayne. Both I can only take so much of, but this guy’s arrogant, better-than-thou lyrics go along with the consistent beat to create a more-than-tolerable workout song. A little slower than some hip-hop, I find it hard to skip this song because I can sing along too.

4. Black Tongue - Yeah Yeah Yeahs
Karen O. can rock, and she sounds like an angry bitch. On top of that, drums keep the beat with more distorted guitar.

5. Smack My Bitch Up - Prodigy
Along with Daft Punk, Prodigy usually offers some pretty decent techno songs. I usually only listen to them when I feel like dancing drunk, or want to work out. I picked Prodigy because they're an old love -- Fat of the Land was the first CD I ever bought on my own (along with TLC's CrazySexyCool.)

6. Sleep Now in the Fire - Rage Against the Machine
Anything by Rage better make you angry. What better motivation than being pissed off at something – regardless if it’s a co-worker or country.

7. Heresy - NIN
GRRR. I can feel my feet pounding with every step on this song. If I heard it driving, I might start going 80 mph (highway OR side street), but this just makes me go faster on foot.

8. The Creator – Santogold
With a voice similar to Karen O. from the Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Santogold also sounds pretty pissed off. This song’s also got a little bit of techno, a slower beat and some tribal drums. Good when you need to find a flow.

9. Till I Collapse – Eminem
This song motivates you. I was first introduced to Eminem when I heard the Marshall Mathers LP up-north at a friends cottage at the tender age of 16. I bought it immediately when I got home. For the most part, I had hung him up on the shelf, because I played out that and the other subsequent albums. I partly blame MrB for talking about Eminem a whole lot over the last month, but it helped me go back and listen to a few of the better songs I haven’t heard in awhile, including this one.

10. Stronger – Kanye West
This song made it because it incorporates a hip-hop beat along with Daft Punk’s “Harder, Better, Faster, Stronger.” Techno can become droning with the same beat over and over, and over – but this song has an even amount of both electronic sounds. Add comprehensible lyrics (vs. DP), which usually help avoid getting sick of a song.

Runner’s Up: Fuel – Metallica; Anti Matter – N.E.R.D.; Touch It/Technologic – Daft Punk; Positive Tension – Bloc Party; No One Knows – Queens of the Stone Age; Sober – Tool

Music week

This week, I'm focusing on something near and dear to me: music. Everything thing I do revolves in some way around the music I listen to, and I thought I'd let you guys in on the secret. I'm by no means musically inclined. The extent of my musical talent involves playing the violin in high school and singing alone in my car. Loud. I appreciate all genres (yeah, even country), and hope to introduce a few of you to some new songs.

There are five categories each including 10 songs, in no particular order. Some you might dispute, others may disgust you. Some, you'll just say, "oh, yeah" and agree.

I'm hoping I can figure out how to add these lists to last.fm, so I can share them with everyone. Either way, if you're genuinely interested in hearing any or all of the songs, I'll do my best to get them to you.

If anything, check out MySpace music. Over the last year, artists have been utilizing the site to offer more of their songs -- most of the time in their entirety. You might be able to find a few on there.

Without further ado, I present to you my personal soundtracks.

What about me?

How about some fun facts about the author, for a casual Friday.


--I'm really particular about how I make my bed after I wash sheets. It takes me about 15 minutes to make sure all the sheets and blankets line up, with even blanket on both sides. I love love love sleeping on a freshly made bed. After that first night, I rarely make my bed.

--I'm left-handed. Except I play the violin, use a computer mouse and bat right-handed.

--I just found out I'm ambidextrous.

--I love Jeopardy! but despise any category having to do with English Lit. or Authors because I majored in English in college, and never get any answers in those categories correct. But somehow, I'll sweep Beatles Lyrics and Crossword Answers Beginning with "F". WTF.

--I watch the movie trailers after I watch the movie, to see how fantastically they edited the scenes to make a coherent synopsis -- comparing them to when those scenes actually happened.

--I don't need to see it. Just the thought of needles or grotesque injuries is enough to make me pass out.

--When I'm driving, I can name the make and model of about 75 percent of the vehicles I see on the road.

--I didn't have any cavities until my senior year of college -- then I had two fillings done within 6 months of each other.

--I've never been admitted to a hospital, and I've never broken a bone in my body (knock on wood).

--I can belch louder than you. But not louder than Michelle.

--I'm deathly afraid of pool drains, and deep lakes or ocean water (when I'm in it).

--Every time I travel out of state, I make it a point to eat something I've never tried before. Examples: Grits with butter, and deep fried alligator in Orlando; Deep Fried Okra FROM WHITE CASTLE in Murfreesburo, TN; swordfish in San Diego; raw squid sushimi in Las Vegas

--I'm addicted to salsa, and coffee. But not together. That's fucking disgusting.

--I swear too much.

--I don't mean to toot my own horn, but I drive better than most girls (and ALL blue hairs.)

--I have obscenely different prescriptions for both eyes. Without glasses, my right eye sees 20/70. My left: 20/400.

--I'm usually pretty articulate on paper, but can't hold a normal conversation with most acquaintances.

--I mumble because I stutter.

--My left shoulder is double-jointed.

--I have my moms hands.

Fine china

I apologize for all the links in advance... but I promise most of them are interesting.
In a disputably controversial move, the current President, George W. Bush, and his wife decided to make a half a million dollar investment, two weeks before departing from the White House: two sets of fine Presidential china. Total price tag? $567,000.

In Laura Bush's defense, they ordered the dishes before the economy went sour; it just took longer than anticipated to be delivered. Plus, the purchase was privately funded by a historical group. Usually only two-term can afford the luxury of ordering such lavish accessories for dinner parties. Mostly because it takes so long to create handcrafted dinnerware. (THAT COSTS HALF A MILLION DOLLARS.)

Other Presidents, like Monroe and Truman, also had customized China made for formal dinner parties. G.W. Bush prefers using Lyndon B.'s, or Reagan's.

The purchase might seem (and IMHO, is) pretty frivolous; but, unnecessary additions to 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. have their place in history, defining a particular era and term of that President, as well as their personal taste in what looked good.

Now the Texas governor turned second generation President will be forever remembered not only for his disputed misdeeds and Bushisms, but for purchasing some exquisitely tasteful cups and plates, too.

In 20 years, the general public will look back at trivial facts or useless knowledge (GW owned the Texas Rangers, and attended every game for 12 years; or, he's the only President who was also a Cub Scout), instead of bills vetoed (Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act) and passed (No Child Left Behind Act), or epic failures (Hurricane Katrina, the Iraq War).

So what about those other guys? What do we really know about past Presidents?

Name a favorite. A lot of people liked Washington, Lincoln, Roosevelt (Teddy and FDR) and Reagan.

A few were a little more notorious.

--Pierce sucked it up for being a doughface, causing his party to stop supporting him. Once he left office, Buchanan directly followed, trumping Pierce by inadvertently allowing the only Civil War in United States history to occur, because of his southern sympathies (FAIL).

--Andrew Johnson and Bill Clinton were the only two Presidents in history to be impeached. (Both were acquitted.)

--Calvin Coolidge took a five hour nap every day, on top of sleeping ten hours each night. I bet him and Matthias would make good friends.

--JFK was known for his sexual nature and drug use, while his White House staff attempted to cover up his misdeeds. It's rumored he had relations with Marylin Monroe and family friend Angie Dickinson, among others.

--Nixon was almost impeached too. "He was a notorious micro-manager and could never relax..." He was also a part of the Watergate scandal. Many liberal Americans during the time hated the guy... followed by most of the U.S. population. He might have been smart, but he lacked moral fiber, and was forced to resign.

And here's a snippet directly from Little Known Facts About 20th Century Presidents:

Warren G Harding (1912-23) might have been the worst President in American history. His father once said "If you were a Girl Warren, you could never say no!". Though Prohibition was effect the White House poker parties always had alcohol and there was an unofficial bootlegger on the staff. Harding may also have fathered an illegitimate child in one of the White House coat rooms.Harding once bet four priceless sets of Presidential china in a White House poker game. (he won the hand with two pair).

He was criticized for being associated with members of his office accepting bribes, and his involvement of the Teapot Dome oil scandal.

He's generally ranked as the worst President in the United States.

Those are just the big ones. Even G.W.'s Bushisms have covered up Dan Quayle's articulate vocabulary. In two decades, half the population won't even remember half the crap George actually did.

But maybe we'll remember he bought some fine dishes.

Carpe diem

I'm a big advocate of supporting local businesses, so when one not only meets but exceeds my expectations, I'm more than happy to shameless promote them: Cafe Carpe.

Lately, I've headed to Carpe once every couple weeks with my traditional Trivial Pursuit posse (my editor, Michelle, her editor and myself), to stretch our lunch hour and enjoy the casual atmosphere of a miniature style dining hall seating.
Because of my financial circumstances, I won't get a chance to go as often, cutting my visits to about once a month. No matter, I'll just learn to appreciate it a little bit more. (BAH, if that's possible.)

In the summer, they have an outdoor, screened-in porch to enjoy hours of Trivial Pursuit and microbrews on tap -- usually local. The porch overlooks the Rock River, and you feel just like you're up north at a cottage with a cool breeze coming in and droning traffic from the bridge a quarter mile away.

A room between the main dining area and the porch has mismatched chairs and what look like old movie theater rows of seats pointed toward a central area with mic stands; the restaurant doubles as a niche venue for folksy music acts and local talent. Unfortunately, I haven't had a chance to see a concert yet.

But what's more? They have the most delicious food. Homemade, locally-grown and full of flavor; every single thing on the menu is fantastic. Not to mention, they have specials on almost a daily basis. (Something like tacos or jambalaya with creole sauce, and some kind of soup or stew). If I don't get the special, I'll usually go for the grilled swiss cheese sammich with tomatoes, or the seared tuna salad. They also have an awesome Sunday brunch, with quiche, fresh fruit, bacon, etc.

And don't get me started on their molasses cookies.

Sleeping in

Last weekend, my brother Matthias volunteered to help Gregor and his roommates move into their new house.

Saturday rolled around, and I decided to wake my brudder from his precious crack of noon sleep by calling around 10:30 AM. No answer. Fine, I'll give him another hour to sleep in. He's known for erratic sleep patterns anyway -- Plus, we're still in Pewaukee.

I call back at noon, becoming a little disgruntled when I reach his voicemail for a second time. Half the daylight's already gone.

I make one more ditch attempt on my way to the new house, hoping I could swing by the UW campus to pick him up. Still nothing.

It took about three hours to unload everything, enjoying a cold one after our efforts. At this point, I start getting a little concerned. I try calling again, and send an email from my handy smartphone. No Matthias. It's 3:30 PM. What in God's name is he doing?

We take the U-Haul back, and I give my mom a quick ring. "Have you talked to Matthew? He said he'd help move today, but I haven't heard from him." No luck.

In all, I called five times, left three VMs and sent an email. It's now after 6 PM, and we're ordering pizza as a reward for smashed hands and sore arms.

What the hell is this kid doing?

At 9:46 PM, my phone rings.

"Hello?"
"Are all three of these messages from you? Can I delete them?"
"...Yeah. Where the hell have you been?"
"My phone died. I was sleeping. I tried fixing my sleep schedule."
"What time did you get up?"
"6:30."
"!!! ... What time did you go to bed?"
"9 AM."
"%#$@*! Umm... I don't think you fixed your sleep schedule. Anyway, call mom she's probably worried.

...Oh, and want to make tacos tomorrow?"