Don't Anger My Fast

I recently ditched my old ride for a new car.  It's a used VW GTI but it's new to me.  Very well taken care of by the previous owners.  It's quite a step up from what I'm used to driving.  I was very happy to meet my Fast.

The dashboard display has all types of good information.  For example, it shows my MPG, direction I'm driving, and how many miles I can drive with the fuel in the tank.  One bit of information I really didn't need however was the current outside temp.

It's freakin' hot and the car is black!  My Fast is going to be uncomfortable in rush hour traffic.

What You Don't Have You Don't Need It Now

Last year, U2 had to cancel their Philly tour dates due to Bono's back surgery.  Tofu Girl had tickets for the show.  Her tickets were honored at the new 360 degree tour this year and I had the honor to go with her.

We were on the floor in a packed stadium of almost 70,000 people.  It was truly an amazing sight.  The crowd was putting off an energy you could feel.  They had waited awhile to see this show and the band didn't disappoint.  They had truckloads of gear on stage to create a huge spectacle.  There were plenty of lights, moving bridges which connected the two rings of the stage and finally a circular video screen which hovered over the band.  The video screen also stretched itself open to create an amazing light show.

One of my favorite songs is Beautiful Day and they did a tribute to Rep. Giffords who had been shot in the head by some idiot.  The tribute was broadcast by her husband on the big wrap around screen - from the space station!  He said hello to Philadelphia and held up a few words that floated in zero gravity.  Then he finished with a Bowie quote "tell my wife I love her very much... she knows."

Absolutely amazing.  It was a beautiful day.

Love's Like Suicide

'Nothing to worry about, just a black cloud over my head' is what I'm texting as Soundgarden takes the stage for a sold out show.  The sun is setting over the city and a slight breeze is blowing the clouds our way.  Chris is singing "look to the sky" from Searching With My Good Eye Closed and I'm doing that very thing.  It's not that I mind getting wet, I'd prefer to have a pleasant evening.

The Festival Pier is a terrible venue - there I said it.  The parking is inadequate, standing on macadam is uncomfortable, the sound is lacking and its narrowness makes moving around difficult.  Sometimes you have to go to where the music is playing.  Tonight it is at this place.  I know all this going into it.  It's not the first show I've attended there.

I found a spot to the right of the stage next to one of the 'VIP' stands.  I'd be pissed if I had paid extra for those bleachers.  I guess they get to sit down at least and stand on wood.  Maybe I'm getting too old for this?  At least I'm still good with loud music.

Once they sorted out the sound, Chris's voice came shining through.  I'm happy to finally see them as a band.  From what was said, it seems they are back together and will have new music next year.  I remember Chris saying not too long ago that he didn't want to be in a band again.  Never say never.  I look forward to anything new they may decide to release.

Does this seem to be a poor choice of name to anyone else?

Beware of the Blob

In 1958 an independent film was made in Phoenixville and the surrounding area titled "The Blob."  It starred Steve McQueen.  The Colonial theater in town became a focal point in the movie.

What's a geek to do but celebrate the anniversary of this sci fi/horror movie?  That is what happens each year in Phoenixville.  There are vendors, classic cars and of course showings of the movie in the Colonial.  They even have a 'run out' in the evening to recreate the Blob attacking a theater full of people.

I went to the street fair to see what it's all about.  Unfortunately I didn't have time to catch a movie but I saw the vendors and classic cars.  It was a fun couple hours.  Here's the website.

Bombs Bursting In The Air

Here it is folks... this post marks one year of my thoughts, travels and rants.  What better time than when fireworks are lighting up the sky.

Speaking of fireworks, I saw three displays this year.  The last one was the best.  With everyone's budget shrinking I know it's getting harder.  The township next to me still puts on a great display.  They didn't disappoint this year either.  I rode my bike over and really enjoyed the evening.  Handygirl came out to join me.

I tried to take some pictures but I was too busy enjoying the show instead.  You'll just have to believe me about how great it was.  Deal!