Geeze, the year is just about
over. Where did it go? And even more depressing, winter is befalling us. But
then look on the bright side: no more lawn mowing, and the perfect excuse to
stay inside and veg out on games, good television and even better books.
Speaking of television I caught a documentary this month on Netflix that struck
my life like a candid flash bulb shot in a dark room. Actually, however, it’s
been a rather slow month for me due to oogles of hours at work. I need to play
the Lottery more.
1.
Radiohead Amnesia on CD: I’ve always loved how
experimental this band is. It’s funny how I dismissed them when “Creep” came
out. I hated the song, but then when OK Computer was released and swept the
Grammy Awards, I went out the next day and bought it. I’ve grown with them.
Over the years their work has been my steadfast companion. I was happy to find
this in my local Half Price Books. Copyrighted 2001, its sound is definitely
the successor to OK Computer and Kid A. Honestly, I wasn’t impressed at first.
I guess I keep trying to find OK Computer in every other recording they’ve
made, but I’m warming up to this album.
2.
Lost: Season 3 on Blu-Ray: I’m moving through this series painfully slow, but
perhaps that’s a good thing, like savoring a good wine, or a great cigar. The
series is still capturing my interest, especially, Juliette. Jack trusts her,
and I want to trust her, but in the end of one episode we see her ostensibly
being as wicked as a double agent in a World War. And Sawyer continues to
redeem (and ingratiate) himself through his actions. This certainly isn’t my
most favorite television series, but I have to admit it’s one of the most fun I’ve
watched. I almost wish now I had been caught up in it when it first aired in
the early oughts. But then, wait . .no, I don’t regret it. Damn commercials!
3.
The Tin Woodman of Oz by Frank L.
Baum: Okay, you can stop laughing now. My secret confession: I’ve been reading
the compilation of these books since 2012. I guess it all started in the 8th
grade when me and some buddies decided to start reading them. They were like an
early version of Harry Potter to us. Well, I managed to read a few of the
books, and I discovered these Oz stories were dark. The Wizard himself carried
a pistol and wouldn’t hesitate to use it. And the Wicked Witch of the West
actually sent a swarm of bees to attack Dorothy and her companions and
instructed the bees, “aim for their eyes with your stingers!” There are 14
books in the series, and I’m on number ten. I never would have guessed the Tin
Woodman was actually a man at one time who fell under a witch’s curse. Ah, the
beauty of the Kindle. You can sit in a dealership awaiting an oil change, an
old man, and nobody suspects you’re engrossed in a Wizard of Oz book!
4.
Assetto
Corsa on PC: I’m still in the GT BMW Z4 GT3 Series which puts me behind the
wheel of a monster BMW road course car. I’ve been experimenting with gear ratio
changes, and this seems to be key in getting that slight edge in these cars
which are all stockly built the same. The second Porsche Dream Pack just
released, and the cars are fun to play with, but I’m all about the career. The
game is still frustrating due to its Terminator AI, but I’ll just have to keep
plugging away if I want to beat it.
5.
The Book of Ruth by Jane Hamilton.
This woman’s writing continues to amaze me. Our main character is enjoying her
married life to a man who is full of shortcomings in so many ways, but he’s “her
man.” I’m dragging in reading this book thanks to my as of late extended work
hours, so it’s certainly not from lack of interest. I will seek out Jane
Hamilton’s other works after this. She’s that good.
6.
A Faster Horse on Netflix: A
suggestion popped up on my Facebook feed one day concerning a documentary
airing on Netflix about the history, legacy, and launch of the 6th
generation Ford Mustang called, “A Faster Horse.” Working at a car factory
really made this resonate with me. Admittedly, I have wanted a Dodge Challenger
since I was 8 years old. I watched this great show and saw what all went into
the modern Ford Mustang, and quite frankly, it changed me. I don’t care about
the Dodge Challenger anymore. I actually want a Ford Mustang. If you have
Netflix, watch this. It just may change your life, too.
7.
2014 Ford
Mustang GT: Two weeks ago I went into a dealership and told the proprietor about
the aforementioned documentary I watched. And then I bought a car from him. He
laughed and said he was going to tell his customers my story. I invited him to
do so with relish. So, I picked up a GT, loaded out with the Coyote 5L 302 cid
engine. It’s decked out with the Track Pack (Brembo brake package, Recardo
racing seats, and a cooler for the engine oil.) She’s got a 6 speed
transmission and a 4 valve DOHC. 420 HP. I’ve never driven anything so powerful
in my life. It’s like driving the Batmobile. No, . .it’s like owning a pet dragon truth be
told.
8.
World of
Tanks on PC: I’m caught up in this silly game again. I have steady friends
who play though, so it’s just too easy to have fun. For a Free to Play it’s not
bad, but definitely recommended to play with friends. I grumble about its
monetization mechanics, yet I always come back to it. Ah, a guilty pleasure!
