AUBREEVISION - Observations from the far side of the dial

Was just watching my beloved Michael Stipe in an interview on Inside Entertainment, saying that the weeks since the US election have been "a discouraging time" for him as an American and as an artist. REM's latest album was recorded in Vancouver, and he's apparently quite enamoured of this country. Oh Michael, I will shelter you and nurse your wounded soul.

Speaking of Mr. Stipe, I missed REM's Ottawa concert two weeks ago. I saw them last year in Toronto and couldn't really justify spending the money again, so invested a huge amount of effort in winning tickets through radio/TV call-in contests. What's with this "caller #9" foolishness? It's a total shot in the dark. Obviously, I didn't win - the few times I managed to actually get through, I had the honour of being Caller 1, 2 and 11. I studiously avoided all post-concert newspaper/TV coverage; it was simply too painful to think of being within miles of Michael, yet so far away.

Thought for the day: Eat chili after running.

Simpsons snippet of the day:

Ralph: Mr. Army Man? I can't sleep without my Reggie Rabbit.
Principal Skinner: Is that some sort of plush novelty?
Ralph: Yes, ma'am.
Skinner: Well, here's a scouring pad; it's just as good.
Ralph (caressing his cheek with the pad): It's cold and hurty!

Bonus line: "If you don't eat your relish, you won't get any mayonnaise!"

P.S. What twisted mind thought of casting Billy Ray Cyrus as a mulletted, wise-cracking doctor? Still, I find myself oddly touched by tonight's "Doc" storyline...if I don't get this alarming development under control, it won't be long before I'm touched by Touched by an Angel. PMS, have mercy!