Memorial Day Weekend (A Summary)

Began the weekend glamourously by working an extra shift on Saturday. On Sunday, we went against beach traffic by heading north to Megan's parents in Pennsylvannia. Went to a barbeque at her Aunt Jackie's place, although Megan tried to tell me it was a picnic (no basket, no blanket, and it took place in someone's home... does that sound like a picnic?) Remarkably, Jackie's six month old grandaughter, Evelyn, from Chicago was there with her mom. It was a monumental meeting of babies for the Dilger family and we all got a kick out of taking pictures that included four generations of Dilgers. Evelyn's mom, Carolyn, assured us that there is going to come a time when Paige sleeps through the night (we can only hope) and revealed to us her baby-calming technique ("the wheels on the bus go round and round...") Outside of song choice, I think our methods are quite similar. All infants like a little bouncing after all.

Sunday was spent at Megan's parents. That afternoon, I had Paige in one arm and barbeque tongs in the other while we entertained Carl and Tony. It was our first time meeting Tony and Carl's first time meeting Paige. Definitely, good first impressions all around. I thought Carl and Tony made a nice match. My personal highlight of the day was our first Rita's trip of the season. Unfortunately, Paige didn't go with us, and it felt extremely odd for Megan and I to spend an hour together without the baby.

Overall, it was a good weekend that rivaled the winter holidays; lots of food and lots of family and friends. Pictures tell the story much better.

What's new in music? Well, I hope all of you are listening to Gnarls Barkley. if not, you must hear the single immediately. The rest of the album holds up too. Last week also marked the American release of Art Brut's 2005 album. I can't decide which song of theirs to post, so I'm giving you "Formed a Band" for their enthusiam (the greatest declaration of love for rock and roll since Joan Jett) and "Emily Kane" for sincerity. 2006 is shaping up to be a good year for front men, as these are two of the most charismatic lead vocalists I've heard since... Jon Spencer... umm... Andre Benjamin?