I know some of you people just can't get enough books, that you're bibliophiles, to the extent that you have wooden doors propped up on piles of books in your homes, serving as tables. That's why I thought I should mention that I reviewed The Cure by Harry Kraus over at arieljvan.com. 

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Apparently he thinks that will enhance his dunking ability.

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This was at the sweet nature center in Jefferson City.

x-posted.

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He tells me it's the only reason he gets up at 5 in the morning. Personally, I have my doubts. Uh, what about the fish crackers?

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Did you know that nonprofits now compete head-to-head online for funding? The International Medical Corps is currently taking part in one such showdown, and I'm impressed with what they do: save malnourished children around the world.

Here's a quick explanation of why your vote matters:

Chosen out of 1,190 projects, “Saving the Lives of Malnourished Children” is now eligible to receive up to $1.5 million in funding. The project with the most votes receives $1.5 million, 2nd receives $500,000, 3rd $300,000, and 4th and 5th $100,000. The funding – made possible by your votes – would bring a vital lifeline to hungry and malnourished children around the world.

So, take a minute and vote. I did. You have about 72 hours.

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It's been a frenetic, crazy week, thus the lack of posts. However, I just saw something that gave me such a large rush of adrenalin that I have to mention it. (And, uh, no, it's not this album's cover art.) You can download the latest album from Sigur Rós for $5.

If you're not tracking, Sigur Rós is the Icelandic "slow-motion," post-rock group that has earned accolades from critics while impressing fans with passionate, brilliant live performances. If you're looking for some kind of comparison, Radiohead is probably the closest you'll come...but in Icelandic. Although the latest album does include a song in English.

Med sud I eyrum vid spilum endalaust may not be the top album from Sigur Rós (it's still being debated, OF COURSE) but for $5, you can't go wrong. Deal good through Monday.

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This will be old news for some of you, but through today you can download Wilco's indie classic, Yankee Hotel Foxtrot, for $5.

Lindsay and I were out of town over the weekend getting some church planting training, so I was unable to rush to the computer and mention the Wilco sale on Friday when it began. 

Yankee Hotel Foxtrot is a quintessential Wilco album, which makes it a must-have for people who love indie rock, in my opinion. Look for the unexpected, quirky lyrics, sampling, and some flat-out addictive tunes. 

There's something about YHF that makes it a great fall disc. Maybe the notes of regret, accompanied by strong intent, and some moments that I simple describe as beautiful. We were playing it yesterday on the drive out into the countryside to pick (and, uh, throw at random people) apples with Aidan and Asher.

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I have to think Canada had one of the more exciting moments in its history when the Kansas Jayhawks visited to play 3 games back in August. Seth Davis recaps the trip and gives us an idea of who the major players on KU's young 2008-2009 team will be.

I was probably one of the few die-hards who watched these games via streaming video online. The match against Carleton actually had a big-time atmosphere. This Jayhawk squad is inexperienced, but they have the talent to do some damage. I think they'll emerge as contenders a little ways into the season and play a couple tournament games at least.

Incidentally, I kind of want these Jayhawk T-Mac kicks.

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Awhile ago we had some friends of ours over and went all out to make them feel at home. I pulled out my pro-grade burr grinder and espresso machine and made some killer cappuccinos.

Lindsay brought out a shockingly tasty dessert. Then we regaled our guests with scintillating conversation, the kind Dale Carnegie can only dream about (we do this ever so often--you know, when the mood takes us).

After the evening was over, my friend was like, "Dude, you guys are great hosts." And I was all, "Hey, anytime, I love making espresso and talking..." And then he said, "Actually, it's your kids. They're so much fun."

So there you go. We give Aidan and Asher most of the credit for successful hospitality in the Vanderhorst home.

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I just read Pitchfork's favorable review, then grabbed this part-Radiohead, part-Coldplay album from Elbow. For $2, I'll gamble on a Brit band that's sure to be better than Snow Patrol. (24 hours only.)

Anybody else playing this one?

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