Kirk blAug

Years ago, a young Jupiter stumbled upon a film on Netflix that would mark the beginning of a fascinating journey for us: "Rubber," a Quentin Dupieux creation featuring a sentient tire with a penchant for destruction. This discovery, made when Jupiter was around seven, has since become a cherished cornerstone of our cinematic explorations. Dupieux's films are masterclasses in the absurd, weaving narratives that are as engaging as they are outlandish. Each movie crafts a universe where the surreal becomes the norm, yet never loses its internal logic. "Rubber" was just the beginning, a gateway into Dupieux's peculiar world where the mundane morphs into the extraordinary. "Deerskin," the latest addition to our Dupieux repertoire, continues this tradition. The film's protagonist, obsessed with his deerskin jacket to the point of wanting exclusive ownership of any jacket in the world, mirrors the bizarre yet captivating premises we've come to ex

Today unfolded with an unexpected adventure as the boys and I, along with Goat, decided to explore the Flannel and Fire event at the Kirkwood Farmers Market. Unfamiliar with the annual celebration until now, we were intrigued by what this community gathering had to offer. The event was a charming mix of vendors, games, samples, live music, and contests, all themed around the cozy comfort of flannel. The highlight for us was the contest for the best-dressed humans and dogs, a perfect opportunity to showcase Goat in one of my flannel shirts. It was a lighthearted moment that added to the day's enjoyment. Despite its bustling atmosphere, Flannel and Fire maintained a low-key charm, distinguishing itself from the larger festival-style events in the area. It was this community vibe that resonated with us the most, offering a sense of belonging and shared enjoyment among attendees. A standout culinary delight was the chili mac from Honey Bee, a dish that perfectly complemented the event&

Today, as I pause to reflect on the many facets of life that inspire gratitude, my thoughts naturally gravitate towards the animals who share our home and daily experiences. Each one, from LT the parakeet to Goat the dog, Tommy the cat, and our trio of chickens, enriches our lives in their own special way. LT, with his avian charm and melodic chirps, brings a sense of lightness and music to our household. His aerial dances and the gentle rustle of his feathers are daily reminders of the freedom and beauty found in nature. Goat, loyal and affectionate, is more than a pet; he's a steadfast companion. His eagerness for walks and playful spirit infuse our days with activity and unconditional love. There's a comfort in his presence, a reminder of the uncomplicated joys life has to offer. Tommy the cat slinks about with feline grace, his curious eyes always observing, always calculating. He’s brought a new dynamic to our home, his independence a stark contrast to Goat's sociabili

Tonight as the evening was already in full swing, I set out with Tsunami and our dog, Goat, for a walk. This daily ritual has become more than just exercise; it's a chance for us to connect and share our days. Tsunami's been on a health kick, and I'm helping to encourage him. Reminding him to be active and joining him on walks are simple ways I can show my support. But these walks are more than just checking a box. They're filled with laughter, conversation, and a deep sense of connection that transcends words. I'm grateful for these shared moments, where we fulfill individual needs - his for physical activity, mine for emotional connection - while creating something beautiful together. It's a reminder that sometimes, the simplest things hold the most meaning.

The day dawned with the promise of music as Jupiter set off for the Bi-State honors band festival at SIUE, leaving Tsunami and me to our own devices. Our morning unfolded leisurely, with YouTube videos providing a backdrop to a relaxed start. When lunch approached, Tsunami and I embarked on a culinary experiment with his new electric dumpling maker. Our quest for the perfect premade dumpling dough turned into an inventive twist using empanada dough, tailored to fit our creation. The combination of plant-based sausage, pepperjack cheese, and red bell peppers proved to be a delightful filling, culminating in a first attempt we were both proud of. Braving the biting cold, Goat joined us for a brisk walk. Despite the harsh wind chills, the walk was a cherished opportunity for undistracted conversation and connection with Tsunami. Later, a nap offered me a brief respite while Tsunami continued to unwind. The day's crescendo was Jupiter's concert at SIUE. After two days of collaborat

This morning, I rose early with the aim of clearing some work off my plate, setting the stage for a relaxed coffee break. The company of Ty and his dad made our visit to Annex in Webster—a place famed for its exceptional coffee—all the more enjoyable. As the afternoon unfolded, the boys, fresh from their first day back at school, dropped by for a catch-up session. It's always a delight to hear their school stories and share in their daily adventures. Our day took a practical turn with a quick stop at Guitar Center. Jupiter needed some guitar cables, and while we didn't linger to try out instruments, the brief visit added a note of musical intrigue to our day. Dinner was the crescendo of our day, spent at Terror Tacos. Known for its stellar Mexican-style cuisine, the restaurant's entirely plant-based menu is a haven for us. It’s a welcome change not to have to pore over menus and ingredients to find vegetarian-friendly options. Dining at places like this, where every dish al

In the stillness of an ordinary workday, my thoughts occasionally wandered to Tommy, our household's newest addition, who was spending his first extended period alone. Returning home to find the animals safe and content was a relief, particularly seeing that Tommy had navigated to a safe spot for his meals, away from Goat's curious nose. The rhythm of the day found its cadence in the routine walk with Goat, a practice that grounds me amid the bustle of life's demands. It was after this walk that the day's tempo changed, as a call from Tsunami ushered in an unexpected but heartwarming twist. The kids, seeking companionship after a day on their own, requested to spend a part of the evening with me. Their mother's message earlier in the day, asserting that I was not "authorized to remove them from her home," loomed in my mind. However, the children had made the decision themselves to seek my company, and I honored their autonomy by providing the care and atte