Austin and Rita

First off, thanks for all the postings. They bring a smile to my curly head through out the day as I have opportunity to check. I am in Austin now, and living downtown which is an improvement over the Fort Worth burbs, walking distance from the State Capitol, the University of Texas and the Lyndon B. Johnson Presidential Library. None of which I have visited yet. But soon!!

Subdued delight. That is the best way I can describe the typical reaction of a FEMA-type to the announcement of an oncoming storm. Their face says 'yeah, that's a bummer, lots of death, destruction and carnage' but their eyes twinkle in anxious anticipation of the oncoming drama and adrenaline and self-importance that will be theirs. Hurricane Rita, which threatens to delay my return home indefinitely, is the cause of much hidden joy around here. Today, someone will run in to my cubicle, trying, unsuccessfully, to look worried and anxious, while telling me that Hurricane Rita will be a class 4 by this time tomorrow, and their voice will crack with excitement sending their weak facade of concern into shambles. Meanwhile, Rita barrel's for the Texas coast with the cascading wrath of a jealous goddess. She is no respecter of persons, but pours her unmitigated power upon a defenseless land like a two year old child sweeps away tinker toys at the smallest provocation.

On another note, I woke up with this bug on my face this morning. I can think of a few better companions who would be better early morning snuggle-buddies. But I appreciate my hard-shelled friend's efforts.

I would post more, but I have promised myself to see Austin. Last night I was tired and frustrated and ended up laying on my bed dozing for most of the evening. Tonight I shall put aside the weights of laziness that do entangle and depress, dawn the trappings of Columbus, Cortez, Magellan and Polo, and venture into the perilous unknowns of Austin.