Lady Faces: Ladies in Your Face

Major Update

2009-08-25T11:26:00.003-04:00

After some real soul-searching and lots of design trials, it's official. The ladies are moving...

to Tumblr!

Make sure to update your RSS feeds with the new link: http://ladyfaces.tumblr.com/

Don't worry, all your favorite posts have been moved over to our new home. Get ready for lots more sass, humor, debates, cuteness, and ladies in your face.

House Cleaning

2009-08-25T09:55:00.000-04:00

So last week was rough. You went to Google Reader, hoping to find the latest Lady Face posts, and what did you get? Nothing. The void. The swirling mass of darkness sending you deeper into depression and suffering! Oh the existential angst!

Sorry for the vacation, guys. I was moving and lacked internet, and then the works makes for unrelated blog busy-ness. But I am back with fun content to distract you from your workday!

First, some business. I got tired of the old layout so I updated to this new model. Thoughts?

Also, although I like the blogger, I've been toying with the idea of moving Lady Faces elsewhere--Wordpress (which I use for the work-blog) or Tumblr (the design of which I really like). So I'll leave it to you guys. Take the poll or post in comments and let me know what you think. Either way, this redhead will be providing you will lots of distracting news/videos/snark/pictures of adorable things.

What Does That Do For Your Facebook Relationship Status?

2009-08-24T09:32:00.000-04:00

From imaginary sibling Felicia Day comes this hilarious (and catchy) song, "Do You Wanna Date My Avatar?"

Is it wrong to want a dress like that? For Halloween, guys.

Nature: Where the Scary Lives

2009-08-24T09:22:00.000-04:00

This Onion article confirms* what I've been thinking all along: if you try to sleep outdoors, even just in your own backyard, you will not survive. Between the ghosts and the axe-murderers and the poisonous spiders, you might as well just shoot yourself and save the psycho killers the trouble.

"We now have definitive proof that most children who camp out in their yards will die a horrific death," said Kathleen Sebelius, secretary of health and human services. "Whether it's a sudden wolf attack, an escaped mental patient, or just Old Man Greenly, who lost his hand in a gruesome mill accident and now seeks his bloody revenge, young boys and girls rarely live to see their parents or friends again."

It's why our ancestors invented indoors, people: so we wouldn't get killed by Old Man Greenly.

*What a fantastic day for "scientific" studies!

Be Prepared

2009-08-24T08:39:00.000-04:00

Most scientific studies are pretty dry. Even the one that will detail the cure for AIDS or something will probably not be the kind of reading you want to take to the beach. It's part of being a researcher--your job is to inform, not to make the results all pretty.

Except this study from Canada is totally kick-ass. Researchers looked at what would happen if a zombie apocalypse actually occurred. The findings? Forget trying to study and ward off the zombies. What you need to do is get out your machete and start chopping zombies.

My favorite part: "In their scientific paper, the authors conclude that humanity's only hope is to 'hit them [the undead] hard and hit them often'."

And unlike many other studies, this one is totally useful! Swine flu is just a sign of things to come. Soon we'll be talking about a zombie epidemic.

When You Hear the Phrase "Orphaned Hedgehogs," You Know This Is Going to Be Cute

2009-08-24T08:29:00.001-04:00

Oh geez, they could make a freakin' Disney movie about this: orphaned hedgehogs think the brush is their hedgehog mother.

"Workers say Mary, Mungo, Midge and Slappy get comfort from playing with the centre's cleaning brush and enjoy rubbing against it."

I know. I know.

Break Out the OED

2009-08-24T08:17:00.000-04:00

CNN has put together a video of some people's least favorite common words/phrases.

First of all, the "sick" kid--did he time warp here from 1994? Who uses "that's sick" to mean "that's cool" anymore? Second, the "I know" guy--maybe your kids/other people actually do know what you're trying to explain and they want you to stop already.

My least favorite word? Pee. UGH. It sounds like you never grew up and learned how to talk like an adult.

What's your hatiest word?

When I'm a Parent, I'm Totally Going to Heckle

2009-08-24T08:11:00.000-04:00

Yeah, that's what it felt like even when I was in the chorus.

Monday Morning Cute: the People Edition

2009-08-24T07:55:00.001-04:00

Paul Rudd, you might be the cutest human being on the planet. Except* for Color Me Katie.

*In fact, are you two related?

As Addictive as Popping Bubble Wrap

2009-08-14T08:24:00.000-04:00

It's Friday. Like you're actually doing work anyway.

I am totally sucked in. Forget the Word Jumble! I'm all about popping words.

(Blame bookshelves of doom for your lack of productivity now.)

Way More Important Than Health Care

2009-08-14T08:17:00.000-04:00

Here's an issue everyone can agree on. Bipartisan television-watching!

Shameless Plug and the Scariness of Babies

2009-08-14T08:08:00.000-04:00

Hey, guess what I wrote--this article!

Working at a children's hospital has made me terrified to have kids. So many things can go wrong with them! Their insides could fall apart at any minute! And you wouldn't know it until there was a bunch of organs on the floor!

Fortunately, the little girl in this article is doing fine and the outlook for the future is bright.

But seriously, kids (all you child blog-followers), take care of yourselves!

Some Like It Hot

2009-08-14T06:44:00.004-04:00

Check out these previously unpublished pictures of Marilyn Monroe.

To all those young actresses who try to pose like Marilyn: give it up. You cannot be Marilyn.

Hi Honey, I'm Home

2009-08-14T06:37:00.005-04:00

AMC has created one of the best marketing campaign's I've ever seen for the new season of Mad Men. Between teaming up with Banana Republic and holding their "Be on Mad Men" competition, it's a great way to get people interested and involved.

Now they show you how to make classic cocktails, like a Tom Collins or an old-fashioned or eight versions of the martini.

When you get home from work today, loosen your tie, put on some music, make yourself a drink.

Sometimes I Feel Like This

2009-08-13T09:40:00.000-04:00

You're going out in the world, little bear!

Going Through My Bookshelf

2009-08-13T08:54:00.000-04:00

Over at NPR, author Lesley Blume has developed a "classic list of must-read children's books." While I applaud all of her choices (The Witches! From the Mixed-up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler!), I have to add a few of my own:

Anne of Green Gables by Lucy Maud Montgomery: Okay, I may love Anne because she's a redheaded bookworm, but her feistiness, awkwardness, and imagination will warm your heart. And just try not to cry at something involving Matthew. Just try.
Harriet the Spy by Louise Fitzhugh: Because Harriet isn't exactly a nice little girl. She's curious and a little bitchy, but she's eighty times cooler than anyone else in her class. I bet she grew up to do something really kick-ass.
A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L'Engle: Her most well-known, and possibly her most endearing. Between Meg, Calvin, and Charles-Wallace, you know the universe is worth saving.
The Giver by Lois Lowry: Oh geez, I freak out about this book. Best freakin' book ever. It's one of the most thoughtful, moving portrayals of a dystopian society ever written. Period.
The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton: More than forty years later and Ponyboy's thoughts and struggles are still relevant. Stay gold, Pony.
The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle by Avi: Charlotte Doyle puts the kick in kick-ass. A thrilling tale set on the high seas. What more could you want?

I could keep going, but instead I'll leave it to you. Post your favorite childhood reads in the comments!

All of These Should Be on the Cover of Madeleine L'Engle Books

2009-08-13T08:46:00.000-04:00

The Royal Observatory in the UK recently released their shortlist for the first ever Astronomy Photographer of the Year. Which means we all win.

Naturally, a few favorites:

Forget Mood Rings

2009-08-12T07:03:00.005-04:00

It's like Willy Wonka meets 70s jewelry--heat-sensitive wallpaper!

Click through to see more of Shi Yuan's art/inventions.

I would just stand next to the wall and make flowers all day. (Actually, that makes me sound a little Yellow Wallpaper-esque.)

How Cozy Is This?

2009-08-12T07:00:00.003-04:00

I would say today's a day I want to cuddle under the covers with a puppy, but that would be every day.

Step one: get a puppy.
Step two: get job that involves staying under covers.

That's reasonable, right?

Call Me Gnome, Not G-Nom-Ee.

2009-08-12T06:44:00.003-04:00

I don't even know what to say about this: the Australian Gnome Convention.

Okay, so they volunteer and do environmental stuff. And rescue gnomes. And where hats that make them look like David.

My favorite parts of their website:

The website's a little overwhelming, but then so are gnomes.

Very Crafty

2009-08-12T06:36:00.003-04:00

Whenever someone says something a little silly or outrageous, I like to say, "That's what my grandmother stitched on a sampler." Some Whedon fans are taking that seriously.

And more power to them! Why get your wisdom from grandma's samplers when you could get sampler messages from the likes of Buffy and Firefly? Click through to check out more.

This is yet another reason why I need to get to Comic-Con one of these days. There are more people like me out there.

Holiday by the Sea

2009-08-11T09:36:00.000-04:00

It's like a beach out of a picture book.

Why Should I Worry? Why Should I Care?

2009-08-11T09:32:00.000-04:00

Tuesday's challenge: try to get your office to sing along.

I freakin' loved this as a kid.

Tut Tut, It Looks Like Rain

2009-08-11T08:54:00.001-04:00

I love art using everyday objects. So a whole collection of umbrella installations really makes my day. Here are just a few of my favorite images:

123Sleep!

2009-08-11T08:28:00.000-04:00

We've all been there.

Who's Betting He Used the "Horny" Line at Some Point During the Evening?

2009-08-10T08:49:00.000-04:00

The other costumes listed here are pretty ridiculous, but is it wrong that I think the narwhal costume is actually a good idea?

Of course, I think he could have gone a lot further with that. Narwhals aren't tan! They're dark gray! Better luck next time, Narwhal Boy.

But seriously, I would like to dress up as a ridiculous animal for Halloween at some point.

Sharks Have Fins; Pale Teen Stars Have Hair Poof

2009-08-10T08:40:00.000-04:00

I hear Jimmy Fallon was the original choice for Edward Cullen.

Hopefully more to come...

(Jimmy Fallon, I never thought I would like you on Late Night. So far you have done a fantastic job changing my mind. Keep it up!)

Because Your Fiance Was a Dwarf?

2009-08-10T08:21:00.000-04:00

For all of us who are sick of seeing cutesy status updates, here comes STFU, Marrieds. Because, seriously, no one wants to see your relationship plastered all over their Facebook feed every day.

Although it does give us glorious images like this one.

I don't know why you'd create a group about your engagement being canceled (send out a mass email, maybe), but what I really don't understand is the accompanying picture. Yeah, that's Willow. (Click through for a closer look.)

Post your suggestions as to why she chose Willow in the comments!

It Seems Like Years Since It's Been Here

2009-08-10T08:02:00.000-04:00

A little sunshine for your Monday morning:

Here Comes the Sun by the Beatles. One of the loveliest songs ever.

Even Better Than a Massive Pillow Fight

2009-08-10T07:12:00.000-04:00

What do you do when you manufacture and sell mattresses? Create the world's longest mattress domino chain, of course!

Coolest bed company ever!

Get Your Daily Dose of Potassium

2009-08-07T08:34:00.000-04:00

Harry Belafonte and the Muppets? Oh heck yeah!

(Although even a Muppet spider doesn't thrill me.)

Honest to Blog

2009-08-07T08:25:00.000-04:00

I was at Urban Outfitters the other day and I heard this group of emo/hipster/whatever kids fawning over a burger phone.

"Oh my gosh!" they cried. "It's like a hamburger! But it's a phone! That is so funny!"

Um, excuse me?

Didn't these kids see Juno? Weren't they the target audience?

He Gave Us a Great Day Off

2009-08-07T07:27:00.001-04:00

We'll miss you, John.

They're So Cool Before They Get Married

2009-08-07T07:20:00.002-04:00

Sarah Haskins takes on the stupid husbands from all those home product commercials.

Sarah, if you want to hang out sometime, just let me know. I'll laugh like a hyena at every joke you make.

Mad About Voting For Will

2009-08-06T09:26:00.002-04:00

If you've been to Banana Republic recently, you've probably seen their recent promotion, teaming up with Mad Men. Best thing they've done in years, in my opinion. They're also running a contest (with AMC) to offer a walk-on role on the show.

This is where you come in.

No, not to try to get on yourself. To help out the very coolest, sweetest, most talented person you can imagine. My friend Will Gatlin is one of the top contenders, and he needs our support if he's going to go all the way. Please vote for him! If he gets the part, it could not happen to a nicer, more adorable person.

Go, Will Gatlin, go!

You Must Be This Tall

2009-08-06T09:14:00.000-04:00

Another fun summer day via Lady Faces--amusement park ideal.

Ye Olde Bromance

2009-08-06T09:07:00.000-04:00

This should be on a cover of Beowulf.

Can I Have the Definition?

2009-08-06T07:29:00.000-04:00

I love the OED. So when Sam Winston used the OED to make art, he definitely won me over.

Plus, he focuses on text and print in his art in general. I freaking love that stuff.

Roam Around the World

2009-08-06T07:19:00.000-04:00

Is this what happened to globes when Google Maps was invented? I wonder which ones have the Soviet Union.

Slowest Birthday Party Ever

2009-08-05T10:09:00.000-04:00

Happy birthday, Turtle! Try not to party too hard.

If Zuckerman Had Loved Wilbur to Begin With

2009-08-05T09:42:00.000-04:00

His nose is all crinkly!

I bet this is how Wilbur looked when he was born.

In Paris, the Windows Have Flowers

2009-08-05T07:52:00.002-04:00

Andrew Sullivan's "The View From Your Window" feature is a vacation for everyone hwo

Never Thought I'd Be on a Boat!

2009-08-05T07:50:00.000-04:00

It's a great, big, watery road! I think they should teach kids this song instead of that "in 1492..." one.

The New Fortune Cookie

2009-08-05T07:44:00.002-04:00

On the inside of my blackberry carton:

In life there are no punishments or rewards, only consequences.*

Why are the blackberries trying to Dumbledore me? If I wanted sage advice, I wouldn't ask for it it before I had breakfast.

*Actually, what the carton said was "In life they are no punishments or rewards only consequences." Why doesn't the world realize it needs me to edit things?

Old (Testament) School

2009-08-04T10:40:00.000-04:00

Juno meets the Bible in Hipster Job:

So...Naked Abraham Lincoln is an angel? What about Clothed Abraham Lincoln?

Cutest Garden Ever

2009-08-04T08:00:00.000-04:00

This picture makes me so happy! Puppies and elephants are meant to be friends.

Now Is the Winter of Our Discontent

2009-08-04T07:57:00.000-04:00

I would love to see a version of Richard III staring King Evil Ferret.

Where You Should Be Today

2009-08-04T07:44:00.002-04:00

Because I'll be in an office all day instead of at the beach, here's some awesome ocean photography.

Han Danced First?

2009-08-04T07:39:00.001-04:00

Anyone want to go to Disney World with me?

I've never loved those costumed actors more.

Currently the Front-Runner For Coolest Bookshelf

2009-08-03T08:22:00.000-04:00

Oh my gosh, I want a tree bookshelf! Although it does seem a little unkosher--keeping your paper books in a fake tree.

Still--it just looks so cool!

They Shoot Horse-Poisoners, Don't They?

2009-08-03T08:16:00.000-04:00

Who would intentionally poison a horse? And not just one, a bunch of horses. Even the pregnant mares! WTF?

Ranch owner Debbie Tomin says they discovered the sick horses on Thursday morning, along with "a feed mix of sliced apples and carrots, which disguised the bitter oleander." So it wasn't just someone walking up to the horses with a bunch of flowers. This was intentional, and they meant to really mess with the horses.

Considering these were show horses and not just your average ponies, I'm guessing it was a competitor. Because otherwise, someone was just targeting horses, and that's messed up. What did ponies every do to you?

Hang onto Your Lifevests

2009-08-03T07:17:00.000-04:00

I haven't read Moby-Dick yet, but I do love anything with giant sea creatures.

Also, who in their right mind would hunt whales? "Here, take this spear and go out in the row boat and kill the enormous frickin' whale." How did anyone sign up for that?

Your Fate Hurtles Down at You

2009-08-03T07:12:00.000-04:00

When I started to see book trailers around the internet, I wasn't sure what to think. I love trailers in general, but do I need one for literature? If they're anything like the new trailer for Jim Shepard's "Your Fate Hurtles Down at You" by Electric Literature, then the answer is yes.

Electric Literature presents Jim Shepard's "Your Fate Hurtles Down at You" (trailer) from Editors Electric Literature on Vimeo.

I went to a Jim Shepard reading once. I'm not a huge fan of fiction readings, since my mind tends to wander and I lose track of the narrative, but Shepard was the best reader ever. His story was engaging, and his Q&A session was the funniest thing I've ever heard in a bookstore. Plus, when he signed books, he was really cool.

It's All in Exchange For the Ridiculously Expensive Gift

2009-08-03T07:11:00.001-04:00

If you're in your twenties, there's a good chance you were a guest at a wedding this summer. It seems like everyday, someone else updates their Facebook relationship status to be "engaged." This can mean a fun time dancing with your friends at a wedding, but sometimes brides and grooms can make serious mistakes that make you consider asking for your present back. Here are a few wedding faux pas to avoid--I wholeheartedly agree to all listed.

One thing I'd add--don't force your guests to participate in lame group dances. The shame of doing the Chicken Dance is only matched by the shame of finding yourself in a Girls Gone Wild video.

Right Wing Beat Poetry

2009-07-31T10:11:00.000-04:00

I'll admit it--I don't always get poetry right away. I'm a fiction writer, a pretty darn traditional fiction writer at that. I like stories about people. I don't even need stuff happening. But with poetry, so much is about language that with some poems it takes me a second read to get into it. Maybe that's what happened with Sarah Palin's farewell speech. Good thing Conan's looking out for us.

I honestly like it better the way Shatner does it.

Exactly Like the Book

2009-07-31T09:35:00.000-04:00

Carol Burnett, please be my friend. Please?

Best lady punch ever!

Maid Service

2009-07-31T09:20:00.000-04:00

Things that I've left behind in hotel rooms: face wash, combs, an orphaned sock. Nothing that would make the hotel maid very interested. But the Telegraph has compiled a list of some strange items people forgot.

Some of these things I could understand. An engagement ring could go missing if left on a bedside table. Maybe you thought you had those World Cup tickets in your wallet and didn't realize you forgot them until you were at the gate. But your glass eye? (Do people still have those?) Your wooden leg? How can you leave without a piece of you?

Next time, have a checklist with you. But you'd probably leave that behind, too.

Stick Your Neck Out

2009-07-31T08:56:00.001-04:00

So I'm on this email list to get announcements about local films--you know, if they need extras and I get the chance to meet Johnny Depp. The other day I got an email with this subject:

Men who appear to have no neck.

Hmm, I thought. What is this doing in my inbox?

Sure enough, the casting people were looking for men who appeared to have no necks. Their email read as follows:

Boston Casting is looking for men 30-50 who appear to have no neck for a comedy commercial. Job pays very well. Please email a photo and contact info to xxxxx. Thanks! Please pass this along to family and friends.

Because that's exactly what your friends and family want to get. "Hey, I saw this and thought of you!" Girls love a guy with no neck. Really.

But then again, K-Fed might be looking for the work.

More From Puppies

2009-07-31T08:52:00.000-04:00

It's Friday! Tomorrow (hopefully) you can sleep in!

I am so happy there are so many beagle blogs on the internet.

Try to Look Menacing

2009-07-31T08:47:00.000-04:00

Hitchcock originally envisioned a movie called The Puppies, but they were too cute and he had to change it to birds instead.

Obviously This Needs to Be a Trailer Remix

2009-07-30T22:14:00.005-04:00

The Godfather is considered to be one of the best films of all time. Arrested Development is considered to be one of the best prematurely canceled TV shows of all time. So it only makes sense that they're about the exact same thing.

It's hard to choose a favorite of all the pairs. I mean, Michael vs. Michael? It's like choosing a favorite child. A favorite child who either shoots people or probably wishes he could sometimes.

And both The Godfather and Arrested Development carry the same message--your family may be screwed up, but they're yours for life, so you'd better learn how to deal with them.

Someone with video editing powers--I am begging you to make two mash-ups out of this combination. In fact, I challenge you! I want to see this videos and laugh so hard I cry like I found a horse's head (or my bicycle handlebars) in my bed.

That Twain Keeps a Wolling

2009-07-30T08:43:00.000-04:00

Man, what's with all the cool kids? When I was this age, I was running around the house, singing along with the Little Mermaid soundtrack.

I just love the little lisp!

Somebody Needs a Speechwriter

2009-07-30T07:47:00.000-04:00

Jon Stewart takes on the Sarah Palin goodbye speech and guinea pigs with guns.

The Daily Show With Jon Stewart

Mon - Thurs 11p / 10c

Quitter

www.thedailyshow.com

Daily Show
Full Episodes

Political Humor

Joke of the Day

Tiny talented starlets? That's really what you want to take about in your farewell address?

Mmmm...frozen wolf patties.

No Wonder I Love the Oxford Comma

2009-07-30T07:41:00.002-04:00

This might be the coziest picture ever.

Also, the whole blog, Fuck Yeah, Britain! is absolutely awesome. I had to stop myself from linking to every single picture.

These Days Are Ours

2009-07-30T07:35:00.000-04:00

Oh my lord, that poor child.

At least she's not alone in family photo awkwardness. This blog makes me feel a lot better about my middle school pictures.

Strings Attached

2009-07-30T07:10:00.000-04:00

Every time he tries to get out, they just keep making him a real boy.

Click through for more movie poster mash-ups.

Be Kind, Rewind

2009-07-30T06:46:00.002-04:00

Movies have a beginning, middle, and end. But what happens to that movie when you flip that structure? Enter the fun new movie game. To get you started, here are some awesome examples:

"If you watch Thelma And Louise backwards, it's about two women with a flying car who slowly realize their place is in the kitchen."

"If you watch Titanic backwards, it's about the citizens of the Lost City of Atlantis finally escaping to the surface in a giant boat."

"If you watch Ghostbusters backwards, you'll realise they're basically releasing ghosts into houses."

"If you watch The Shining backwards, it's about a murderer who is convinced by ghosts to give up the drink and settle down for a nice vacation with his family."

"If you watch Jaws backwards, it's about a shark that keeps regurgitating people until they have to open a beach."

I think it's a sign that I will watch any shark movie, because I was in hysterics over the shark regurgitation movie.

Everybody Wants to Be a Cat

2009-07-30T06:42:00.000-04:00

This kid is the coolest cat around.

Good For Your Health

2009-07-29T11:29:00.004-04:00

Sometimes blogs are about funny videos and cute pictures of puppies and all the snark you can sit into a post. But sometimes they have a greater purpose. Sometimes blogs bring pediatric health news to curious readers.

Hence the reason the Lady Faces gets the occasional shaft-of-the-day. For at least the next few weeks, I'm a blogger (and doctor-blogging-helper) for Thrive, the official Children's Hospital Boston blog. CHB is one of the country's top children's hospitals, with lots of fantastic programs for children, so the blog has great experts weighing in on health topics.

Plus, you can see the serious side of Annie's writing. Check it out--swimming safety! ACL surgery! French fries! You just know you want to comment.

Really though, you should check it out. One day your child will need ACL surgery, and you'll know just what to do because of Thrive.

(I just saved your child's life!)

To the New World!

2009-07-28T09:45:00.001-04:00

For the longest time, Justin Timberlake didn't really enter my radar. Sure, I danced to 'NSync songs at dances, and I thought going solo was a good move, but I was never in love with him. Well, SNL has made me love him so much. The music? That's fun and catchy and great, but it's the comedy that puts him over the top. I mean, Dick in a Box? Hip Hop Kids? Motherlover? Freakin' awesome. Every time he's on, it's funny. Who'd have known that he'd fit into SNL so well?

This one isn't quite 'Dick in a Box,' but it's a great send-up of Timberlake's career.

Keep dreaming of that new world, Cornelius Timberlake. It's a glorious world for us all!

Modest Mango

2009-07-28T08:55:00.001-04:00

Funniest juice box ever!

Like Neko Case Before Her

2009-07-28T08:32:00.000-04:00

This little girl is too awesome. Plus she's a redhead. Be my friend, little baby rocker chick!

Hey There, Cute Lookin'!

2009-07-28T08:19:00.000-04:00

Beagle McWinkyface!

Perfectly Healthy Apart From the Fact They Were All Dead

2009-07-28T07:48:00.000-04:00

It started out normally enough. A family went to visit their newly born niece. A fun and exciting hospital visit. Until...

That's right. Tom Riddle owns the hospital*! And I bet his wife is even scarier! (Who would marry Voldemort but another creature of pure evil?) Run for your lives!

For posting this picture among the nice baby ones, I freakin' love this family.

*Okay, Tom Riddle doesn't own the hospital. He founded/donated/whatever. But I bet he pulled out the Avada Kedavra to get his plaque up there.

(Nerdiest post yet? You decide.)

Porcupine, Porcupine, Porcupine, Porcupine.

2009-07-27T09:20:00.000-04:00

In this tough economy, the safe money is in the porcupine racetrack.

MTV Shows

Best priest in a musical ever!

It's a Four-Part Series

2009-07-27T09:19:00.000-04:00

When Harry Potter was big, lots of people tried to cash in on the wizard craze. Now it's all about vampires. But one writer obviously has his finger on the pulse of the teen reader. Forget wizards, forget vampires, forget werewolves and zombies and unicorns. The next hot mythical creature love story is all about dragons.

An excerpt from the synopsis:

"[T]his is a story about Bonita Ingénue a 15-year-old, misunderstood young woman who gets rescued from her provincial, boring life and whisked away to a fantastical world of exciting, sensual, magic and erotic, thick, penetrating whimsy...Even though Bonnie has her pick of the litter at school, she really has her heart set on Theo, the mysterious boy who lives just outside of town in Dragon Hills. Theo has feelings for Bonnie as well, but he also has a deep, dark secret. A deep, dark dragon secret. He is a dragon."

How could you resist a grabber like that? But if you still need convincing, here's a bit from the actual text:

"You must be Bonita," Theo said, his voice low and warm, and with just a hint of mischief. He sounded the way that drives girls crazy, like an American Idol or an iPod or whatever. His eyes, the color of coals (black), seemed to be staring directly into Bonita's soul. A warming chill sent sweaty shivers up Bonita's spine.

"I am," Bonita said, registering neither shock nor joy at the realization that Theo knew her name.

"I was about to go to lunch," Theo whispered, his pointed dragon teeth looking like a bunch of finely sharpened dongs. "Are you hungry?"

"No." I don't feel like mentioning that my stomach is already full, Bonita thought. Full of butterflies. Fucking each other.

It's Printz material, I tell you! (Click through for the rest of it.) Stephanie Meyer, watch out--you've got some stiff competition.

Good Point!

2009-07-27T08:36:00.002-04:00

Jesus' family dynamic was totally nontraditional, and he turned out all right.

Also, Run Into the Dark Woods

2009-07-27T07:52:00.002-04:00

From the brilliant minds of Joss Whedon and Lost/Buffy writer Drew Goddard comes The Cabin in the Woods. With posters like this one, I can only guess it's going to be a fun take on the teen horror genre:

Check out more here. And mock the old man.

Can I Get an Appointment with Dr. Blood?

2009-07-27T07:39:00.000-04:00

From the Daily Dish, a thread of ridiculous yet real doctor names. The next time you need a check-up, maybe you should call some of these guys. A few favorites:

"Our family dentist is Dr. Fang."

"A bunch of friends and I were just having this conversation last night. My contribution was Dr. Scull. Yes, it's pronounced skull."

"There is an oral surgeon in Cleveland named Dr. Blood. Despite the name, he is a great doc."

"I'm a bit late to the party, but I thought I'd share -- my grandma's proctologist's name is Dr. Ramsbottom. I'm not making this up; I'm simply not that creative."

These guys may be good doctors, but their real talent is hitting the funny bone. (Ooooh.)

Tonight on Animal Planet

2009-07-24T09:48:00.000-04:00

A little cuteness for your Friday. Because when cute things try to be tough, it makes them even cuter.

Watch out, puppy. That dandelion looks like it's going to strike at any second!

What is Your Greatest Weakness?

2009-07-24T08:44:00.000-04:00

This list of weird things said in job interviews makes me feel both better and worse about myself. Better because at least I haven't done anything like this before. Worse because I am still bad at finding a job with any kind of stability or benefits.

Some favorite quotes:

Why are you leaving your current job?
"Because I (expletive) my pants every time I enter the building."

What are your assets?
"Well, I do own a bike."

Is there anything else I should know about you?
"You should probably know I mud wrestle on the weekends."

Umm...why would an employer necessarily need to know that? Is he/she coming into work on Monday caked in mud? I guess if that's the case, it's good to know--you'd want to avoid that person in the break room.

Are You There Gob?

2009-07-24T07:57:00.000-04:00

Will Arnett reads aloud from Are You There, God? It's Me, Margaret.

What more do you need, right?

Best thing he's done since the end of Arrested Development.

Desk Lust

2009-07-24T07:52:00.000-04:00

Loooove this.

Just Keep Swimming

2009-07-24T07:45:00.002-04:00

One of the loveliest, most peaceful videos you'll ever see. I wish I could get a livestream of this so it could be my background all day.

Kuroshio Sea - 2nd largest aquarium tank in the world - (song is Please don't go by Barcelona) from Jon Rawlinson on Vimeo.

We'd Better Split!

2009-07-23T10:13:00.002-04:00

I love the banana faces!

A Lifetime of Pictures

2009-07-23T09:36:00.000-04:00

Remember that awesome video with all the pictures? Olympus has created their own version for their PEN camera. Plus, I like that they reference the original concept, too.

If you like the song, you can download it for free!

Un-bear-able!

2009-07-23T09:08:00.000-04:00

Don't trust him. It's how they got the Grizzly Man.

Toxic Shack?

2009-07-23T09:05:00.000-04:00

This is the best of both world's: Britney's catchy beats, and the vocal stylings of the B-52s.

I wish I could download this version!

The Future of Art History

2009-07-23T07:40:00.000-04:00

Everyone knows the Star Wars prequels were a bunch of crap. So maybe this Star Wars photoshop contest can balance the scales a little. Contestants took famous works of art and photoshopped in something Star Wars-y. I've got to say, I'm impressed!

A few favorites:

Lights Out

2009-07-23T07:24:00.006-04:00

Check out some awesome pictures from the longest solar eclipse of the century! It passed through Nepal, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Myanmar and China, and lasted up to 6 minutes and 39 seconds in a few places.

A few favorite pictures:

I Wish I Were an Oscar Mayer Wiener--With Insurance

2009-07-22T08:50:00.000-04:00

Maybe too much processed meat makes your reaction time slower. Because the Oscar Mayer Winermobile crashed into a home on Friday.

"Police said the driver was trying to turn the Wienermobile around in the driveway and thought she was moving in reverse. But she instead went forward and hit the home. It sat in the driveway as if it were stuck in the garage Friday afternoon."

I'm not exactly sure why the Wienermobile was in someone's driveway in the first place. Aren't these things generally used for promotional events? But I am so glad this happened, if only for the picture.

It's New to You

2009-07-22T08:12:00.000-04:00

By now, it shouldn't be too surprising that I love bookstores. I'm a total skinflint about everything else, but I love buying books. (I love libraries, too, but it's so nice to add a book to my personal library!) So used bookstores are great--books at reduced prices? Heck, yeah!

John Rossheim lists a few of his favorite used bookstores. New England folks will recognize Raven Used Books in Cambridge and Myopic Books in Providence. I would also add the Brattle Bookshop, and the basements of Brookline Booksmith and the Harvard Square Bookstore.

As for selling books back, here's a way to get rid of those novels you had to buy for your 20th Century Modern Literature class:

"There's always a need for classics like Faulkner, provided they're in reasonably good shape," says Brendan Sherar, (founder and CEO of Biblio.com, which sells used and new volumes from thousands of independent bookstores).

I guess I can get rid of a few of my multiple To Kill a Mockingbird copies...but what if I need another?

(I'm only hoarder about books, I swear.)

My Nerd Heart Swells

2009-07-22T08:03:00.000-04:00

Yes, please!

Make sure to check out ILoveDoodle's other hip designs, too!

Viva Las Chinchillas!

2009-07-21T09:48:00.000-04:00

This one conquers all the other Las Vegas commercials.

Capybaras would never have a violent uprising. They prefer peaceful protests.

Your Next Vacation Spot, Right?

2009-07-21T09:16:00.000-04:00

The people of Forks, Washington probably never thought their home would be considered a tourist town. But ever since Stephanie Meyer made it the home of the Cullen family, Twilight fans have flocked to the small Northwestern town. It might bring in money, but it also brings in bad puns, like culinary delicacy "Bellasagne."

Wonder if the filling is angsty teen.

Granted, Forks is the perfect location for the series. It's remote, it's cloudy, it's outdoorsy, and the Washington scenery is pretty gorgeous. Still, it can't be so great for the residents of Forks, who have to deal with Twilight-fan-freakouts. For example:

"Chris Cook, editor of the local paper and author of guide book Twilight Territory, says the school's principal was mobbed at a Seattle airport when a teenage fan spotted his Forks Spartan jacket and started yelling, 'He's from Forks, he's from Forks!'"

At least Harry Potter fans haven't mobbed a high school principal. (That I know of.)

Mary Tyler Moore: the Marine Life Version

2009-07-21T08:52:00.000-04:00

Sing this to yourself at work.

And then throw a seal in the air.

So Far My Coffee Table Is Going on Eight Months

2009-07-21T08:24:00.000-04:00

This article from the Atlantic Monthly makes me feel a little guilty about loving IKEA so much. Of course, it's not exactly a shock that their products (and thus their company) isn't sustainable--after all, how much can you really ask of a $20 table? But does anyone really want to think about IKEA's forestry monitors when they're picking out a cheap sofa?

The real problem:

"Designed but not crafted, IKEA bookcases and chairs, like most cheap objects, resist involvement: when they break or malfunction, we tend not to fix them. Rather, we buy new ones."

It's true. You don't worry about saving your $35 bookcase for your grandchildren. If it breaks, it breaks.

Hopefully IKEA will do its part to rectify this issue. They seem to care about good company image, and sustainability is a major issue nowadays. Because I don't think I can afford to invest in Louis IV tables just yet.

The Fifth Book Was Pretty Angsty

2009-07-21T08:13:00.000-04:00

How did I miss this one? Harry Potter meets Dave Eggers. It's like the new Where the Wild Things Are movie, except terrifying.

An excerpt from the novel that (thankfully) JK Rowling never wrote: Harry Potter and a Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius:

"REMOVED FROM CHAPTER 5:
So today the wind is perfect. Our brooms soar above the beach and we dive and swoop. We are the greatest Quidditch players who ever lived, Ron and I, we are beautiful and young. And I do this trick where I fly up to the Golden Snitch from behind and when I’m almost there I jump at it and my broom does a kind of 180 in the air—it’s probably a 360, actually, when you think of it—and I spin and a Bludger whips past my ear but does not dislodge me, no how could it, because no one has ever played Quidditch like this. I am really fucking good. And so now I am upside down and the Snitch is beneath me and I catch it behind my back, over my shoulder, one hand. Can you see this? Goddamn, look at that fucking catch."

Click through for more!

Nevermore

2009-07-21T08:01:00.000-04:00

Kind of angsty, but it's Poe and today's forecast calls for rain, so I'm going with it. Plus, the animation is wicked awesome.

The Raven from Michael Dibblee on Vimeo.

Ducks Shop Together!

2009-07-17T08:58:00.001-04:00

Being at the mall can be pretty draining, especially if you're a duck and can't climb the escalator.

I hope they decide to fly instead.