Some days it's not worth chewing through the leather straps

Via Comcast, STEVE LeBLANC from Associated Press writes: The level of nicotine that smokers typically consume per cigarette has risen about 10 percent in the past six years, making it harder to quit and easier to get hooked, according to a new report released Tuesday by the Massachusetts Department of Health. The study shows a steady climb in the amount of nicotine delivered to the lungs of smokers regardless of brand, with overall nicotine yields increasing by about 10 percent. This is particularly despicable in my eyes since cigarettes are primarily responsible for both of my parents deaths.

Who knew Picard was such a song and dance man? Via PistolWimp

Ohio Congressman Tim Ryan lets it fly, you go Tim! Via Dump

Anybody check out the Emmy's last night? I hate seeing the "stars" get up there and try and exchange lame banter between each other. To me, the highlight of the evening was watching two guys who really are funny, and at the top of their game. Check it here from PistolWimp

From Tanja Askani, a German Photographer Bambi and Thumper

This is one of my favorite bits of writing from the our-kids archives. I am not sure of the original author, but it was contributed to the list by Peter Jones, Oct 17, 1995. A bit of insight into our world: I am the child who cannot talk. You often pity me, I see it in your eyes. You wonder how much I am aware of. I see that as well. I am aware of much ... whether you are happy or sad or fearful, patient or impatient, full of love and desire, or if you are just doing your duty by me. I marvel at your frustration, knowing mine to be far greater, for I cannot express myself or my needs as you do. You cannot conceive my isolation, so complete it is at times. I do not gift you with clever conversation, cute remarks to be laughed over and repeated. I do not give you answers to your everyday questions, responses over my well being, sharing my needs, or comments about the world about me. I do not give you rewards as defined by the world's standards.. great strides in development that y...

Each year the Engineering students up at CU form teams and do a project. Since they have to build something anyway, they have started a program where they reach out to the special needs community and ask what they might need. This last year, they built a putt putt golf adaption for Skyler to use. Here is their presentation they made for their final. And here is an "action" photo Notice Skyler is so sure he made the shot he isn't even looking...