American psyche

A few weeks ago Captain America died. While a few of the news agencies picked up the story I was a little amazed that there wasn't public reaction. I know most people don't follow the comic book world but as an iconic symbol of the state I wonder if this would have been allowed 5 or 10 years ago. Frankly I blame George.

Tidbits

My friend Kip gives me a hard time about my blog because I'm not the most consistent or prolific writer. He's probably the only one who checks in on my progress like a monitor in a drug test clinic. So Kip, this is for you - just some random thoughts since I don't have anything to pontificate about today.

I'm impressed with Ruel's discipline. He actually loves to write and has a great creative outlet. I've never had the will to hone a craft especially when it comes to my creative side.

I need to get out of the country. I can taste the damp saltwater air already. A new adventure keeps me going and I need a new escape to dream about. We're planning a short weekend trip to New Orleans but I need to see Costa Rica or Spain soon.

I dream of a sturdy kingsize bed. It's funny that we spend nights watching TV in bed while surfing the internet and our laptops warming our legs. My mother use to be propped up in bed reading a book but we're defining a new domestic routine. Now our key issue is that typing on a laptop takes a little more leverage and back support but our current bed keeps pushing away from the wall creating a chasm for pillows and bad posture. I'm excited for us to get a headboard.

My 20 year high school reunion is this summer. I recieved a call from an old classmate who said I was one of the last ones on the list they've been trying to find. I didn't realize I was in hiding. Talking on the phone I swear I reverted into a teenager revisting old names and interactions. I'm also struck by the cultural divide. I grew up in a very small rural town and I could discern the hint of quiet vs. hectic during my conversation with an old friend. It's not the red/blue thing but more of a "know your neighbors" vs. "know the barista" thing.

To go or not to go. I haven't decided whether to go back for my class reunion. While it would be fun to show Ruel where I grew up and enjoy a fun weekend, do I want to subject myself to those old anxieties and base instints? I actually liked high school and had some great friends. It would be so much fun to see them as adults. However, I still carry some chip on my shoulder about where I grew up. I left the small town and went right to NYC, SF and LA to prove I could make it. On some level I have a job that involves a lot of travel as a way to prove I escaped. It would be easier to go back if I could play the "my kids are the greatest thing I've ever done card." I know it's me trying to prove something to myself but if I go I don't want to be "that guy" who is trying to hard. I'd like to be the "wow he was so nice and not full of himself guy." Alas, even that would be trying to prove something.