Two Movies in 24 Hours

I have seen two movies in 24 hours which is very unusual because I can't remember the last movie I actually went to see one in a theater.  Probably it was Runaway Slave.  Maybe True Grit before that.

Steve and I went to see Lone Survivor yesterday and today I went to see Wolf of Wall Street.

We wanted to see Lone Survivor because we'd both read the book when it came out and well, what a story it is!  I thought the movie was very good and it made me even more appreciative (if that's possible) of our military and what they are willing to sacrifice for this country.  Simply amazing.  I was sorry that the movie deviated from the book in the final scenes; wasn't the real story intense and dramatic enough without making up events?  That being said, it was well worth the time to see.  I highly recommend it if you get a chance.

I went to Wolf because my 22-year old son wanted to see it and asked me to go with him.  Yeah, it's not really a movie to see with your kids, no matter how old they are, but there we were.  I have mixed feelings about Wolf.  I thought that artistically the movie was well done, especially with regard to how it represented the eighties.  But there was an awful lot of gratuitous naked people and sex that could have been left out.  The three hour movie could easily have been done in 2 hours if some of that was trimmed.

My other problem with Wolf is that it seems the older I get the less tolerant I am about glorifying criminals.  The guy needed to be in jail (not a federal country club) and needs to be held to his restitution agreement.  I'm all for freedom of artistic expression and I know a lot of people enjoy movies like that.  I have certainly watched my share of Godfather movies and own a copy of Scarface.  I can't really put my finger on why this one bugs me; maybe it's because this real person defrauded other real people and so far doesn't seem to have paid much of a price.  Maybe it's just that I don't like Belfort.  There's nothing likable about him.

Leonardo DiCaprio probably did a fine job in his role of Jordan Belfort (although I think I would have preferred it if he and Matthew McConaughey had switched roles.  McConaughey would have been excellent in that role.)

I am content now to sit back on the couch and stick to reading books.  And considering the previews I've seen, that's probably going to be a very wise decision.

The Queen of Camo

Are you a Duck Dynasty fan?  Or no?

I love those people.  They crack me up.  Seriously, I do.

Duck Dynasty, as you've probably heard, is a show the whole family can watch: no sex, no cussing, no violence (except the occasional dead squirrel or duck), it's funny, and it ends with a prayer.  (shhhh!  Don't tell the libs that!)

The Robertson clan is in the news now because they're holding out for a raise.  Oh, they don't need the money; Phil Robertson made millions with his duck calls ages ago.  But who can blame them?  They're a huge ratings hit.

I've been amazed at the comments on Facebook about this photo of Korie Robertson.  The critics are downright nasty about this picture and are calling it "porn" and the Robertsons "sellouts."  They look at this picture and see sex.

I look at this picture and I see a happily married Christian woman with a great figure in an original duck-camo pattern dress.   Beautiful.

What do you see?

Full Metal Jacket Reach Around: The Oktoberfest Munchen Edition

We're a little tardy with our FMJRA this week but better late than never.

Oktoberfest kicked off in Munich this weekend and I've been vicariously watching through the internet:  YouTube videos, live web cams, news reports and pictures posted to Twitter.  Here at SIGIS, it's been a quiet weekend here at SIGIS with a little bit of rain here and there.  The next few weeks look busy, busy, though.  My daughter and her husband are coming next weekend to celebrate my Mom's 87th birthday and then the next week is, of course, Oktoberfest at Barksdale Air Force Base!  The weekend after that, we are overdue for a visit to Milly's Second Hand Rose Antiques.

And around the blogosphere...

Eric Clapton is ALWAYS a hit with me and The Daley Gator has video.

Smitty has posted a really cute baby picture at The Other McCain.

Legal Insurrection is advocating flogging.

Those great Al-Gore-Light-Bulbs, otherwise known as CFLs?  Doug Ross reports a price spike coming up.

American Power reports a 12% unemployment rate in California.  In a related post, The Pirate's Cove reports on a supermarket union in CA threatening to shut down hundreds of stores.

Ann Althouse is starting to find Rick Perry "appealing"? 

When you finish with my round-up, head over to Mind Numbed Robot.  He'll keep you busy for a while.

Bride of Rove had an interesting post this week on the Cherokee nation decision to oust blacks from their rolls.

I totally missed this monstrous outfit.  Wish is hadn't seen it now.  Bread Upon The Waters.

Pundette posts on latest controversy about the Obama White House and their hostility to women.

The Reaganite Republican joins the million hit club!  Congratulations!  SIGIS is still several years away from that honor, I think.

Speaking of blogs and hits and such, I mentioned this on Twitter the other day, but I just hate hitting a blogger's tip jar and not even getting a thank you in return, much less a link.  I know, you're supposed to give without expectation in this world, but in the blog world, it's customary, I think, to say thanks.  If you've hit my tip jar and I didn't thank you, please accept my profound apology.  I know sometimes we get busy and overlook things so I won't hold a grudge, but still...

And so ends the SIGIS roundup this week.  I must go practice my stein hefting skills for Oktoberfest.  A full mass of Oktoberfest is pretty heavy!

"7.1 million litres of beer..."

Munich Oktoberfest kicks off Saturday and last year revelers drank copious amounts of "bier"!  Wow!

There are very few times during the year when one can get away with wearing leather shorts and stumbling about with a litre stein of beer. The strictures of modern society are such that if you were to attempt that on an idle Tuesday in April, you would probably receive a stern talking to, if not a straight-jacket. However, for about two weeks a year, this behaviour is just fine. Such is the magic of Oktoberfest.

How can you not LOVE a sixteen day celebration of beer!

SIGIS will be Oktoberfest blogging through the duration.  Order your gear now.  I've taken my dirndl out of storage! (THAT ought to get Mr. SIGIS home from Iowa!)

On the Videos From Oktoberfest...

In an attempt to show you new Oktoberfest videos in a countdown until our own BAFB Oktoberfest, I've watched lots and lots of really, really bad videos!  The problem with making an Oktoberfest video, particularly in Munich, is that everyone is drunk.

I mentioned this to Steve last night.  When he came in I was sitting in front of the computer watching drunk people standing on tables in Munich singing "Take Me Home, Country Roads" and lamenting the fact that the videos are either eighteen seconds long, are blurry and jerky, or incoherent closeups of drunk friends.

Me:  "Everyone is drunk!  I can't find a good video!"

Steve:  "Welllllllll DUUUHHHHHH!!"

Okay.  Point taken.  If you look long enough you can find some good ones.  I really liked the Spaten video I posted this morning.  You could see the food as well as the beer!

This is the llloooonnnnnggggeeesssstttttt week!  Isn't it Friday yet?  I'm READY!


Oktoberfest Experience from Topdeck Travel on Vimeo.


(Reuters photo)

The Morning After The Super Bowl Round Up

It's quite difficult to focus on political news when THE SAINTS HAVE JUST WON THE SUPER BOWL!

This blog will get back to politics shortly. Meanwhile, here's a round-up of the morning after commentary:

Red has the celebration videos. The folks in the French Quarter went wild, as one would expect!

The Dead Pelican went black and gold again last night and has lots of links.

My Bossier has Tracy Porter's interception video clip, and a video of a hilarious and unorthodox church service in New Orleans yesterday.

NOLA has the morning after write up and more video:

After the confetti had dropped, after the tears were shed, after they stood in front of the cameras and the microphones and tried to put the greatest night of their professional lives in perspective, Sean Payton and Drew Brees shared a quiet moment together. They hopped on the back of a golf cart, each with a hand on the shiny silver Vince Lombardi Trophy that rested in Payton's lap, each with a wide grin across their faces.

"Don't you just want it to slow down and last longer?" the coach said to his quarterback.

Governor Bobby Jindal's bet with Governor Daniels means that a "Who Dat" flag will fly over Indy this year!

The Hayride has thoughts after the victory:

It’s hard to form coherent thoughts when one is absolutely, completely numb.

The Saints winning the Super Bowl, as happened tonight, is that kind of event. Numbing. Until this year it was never even allowed, it seemed, for Saints fans to seriously think of their team as a champion...And while Payton is a sensational coach, Drew Brees is equally superlative. Brees is, to me, the epitome of what a star athlete should be – he exudes excellence on the field not based on overwhelming physical talent, though he’s unquestionably a phenomenal athlete, but all of the other factors. Brains. Character. Class. Work Ethic. Commitment. Courage. Leadership.

I'll update through the day as more trickles in.

Matthew McConaughey's PSA for Veterans

Via Instapundit, a chance to post a hot picture of Matthew McConaughey.

No, seriously, Big Hollywood reports that McConaughey is taking part in a series of PSAs in support of veterans.



I'll take that over any anti-American Johnny-Depp-Gwyneth-Paltrow-type celebrity, any day.

Saturday Full Metal Reach Around

Your gratuitous Rule 5 picture this week is of Stormy Daniels - I know, it's the second one I've put up of her this week (NTTAWWT), but hey, she's planning a run for Senate against David Vitter in my home state. And she hosted the F.A.M.E. awards this week in Los Angeles. That's Fans of Adult Media. I mean, if that doesn't qualify you for a viable Senate run these days, what does?

On to more important things, linkage.

Where are My Keys? is a nifty blog that linked my Car Czar story this week. There are a lot of good things there and also a question for any lefties (or I suppose any righties could answer, as well) for you.

The Weekly Point is another new blog in my round-up this week because they linked my Miranda story. They have a little aggregating thing going on there and a nice round-up of issues.

Speaking of aggregating, have you seen NTCNews?

One more new blog to my weekly roundup is Granda John's. We were snarking just a little about intercollegiate rivalries, and well, even though he bashes my beloved LSU, this post was just funny and I always like good writing! He earned a spot in my blogroll.

Carol's Closet finds herself agreeing with....Bill Maher? (Carol, I'm trying to put you in my blogroll but for some reason, Blogger won't let me. Everytime I put your blog there, it routes me to Technorati instead of to your blog. I'm going to get that fixed, I swear. I want you there!)

Snaggletoothie has been on a roll this week changing out the pics at the top of his blog. You have to be fast, or you miss one. He's also losing patience with Obama's "transparency."

I don't think Ann Althouse is buying in to this whole let's raze blighted cities thing...Fausta is not impressed either.

How come Troglopundit gets all the cool photoshop stuff from Carol? Because he's #28, that's why! Seriously. His blog is newer than mine and he gets ranked and I don't? This hurts me deeply. I need to work on my Rule #1 skills.

Doug Ross linked me a couple of times this week and I totally *heart* him for that! I got a huge Doug-lanche. He's done some great pieces over there this week but I found this one on health care quite interesting.

Legal Insurrection also took on the health care debate...we've been punked. Again.

And still on health care, do not miss Bride of Rove's post. I love everything she writes. She has a way that somehow says exactly what you were thinking. This is one of my favorite blogs.

Gateway Pundit has a photo of the Uighurs upon arrival to Bermuda. My favorite quote from frequent commenter Vegas Art Guy, "What a clusterfork this has turned out to be." No truer words, my friend.

Speaking of Gateway Pundit, why doesn't he ever link me? I guess for the same reason Instapundit never does. To quote Robert Stacy McCain, "I suck." Speaking of RSM, he is single handedly trying to support the Chinese economy, and you can help.

I digress...

Be sure to check out No Sheeples Here and info on the Troop-a-Thon.

Pundette is having a caption contest - can't WAIT to see the entries on this one! Now that's a true "green" car!

Yukio is back! Sort of. He took time out from writing to address the issue of Obama and women's rights. I do miss Yukio's long posts and will be glad when he gets that book done!

Little Miss Attila addresses the Palin/Letterman issue with her good sense. I've stayed out of that one because I knew she'd so such a sensible, rational job with it. She rocks. Jimmie at The Sundries Shack isn't buying Letterman's apology, either.

Flopping Aces has the new NRSC video - I liked it. It made me sort of hopeful. Nice propaganda.

Donald Douglas has hidden between his more serious posts about Obama and the DOMA, a Toto video. I'm time-trippin' on that one Donald! I'm going to look for my Kansas 8-track! Love it!

Political Byline questions: should we get rid of the national anthem? He answers it, too.

Sarah wants to know what happened to the melting pot, and would like your comments on that post, too!

Okay, that's as far as I can go today. I have to do stuff like...get dressed, eat, have a life...I'll be back later.

Is Vitter's Political Future Looking Stormy?

Porn star Stormy Daniels is proceeding with her campaign in the 2010 elections against Senator David Vitter. In late May she formed a committee to explore a potential campaign and began a "listening tour." She said, "Two weeks ago, I embarked on a listening tour where I had the pleasure of hearing the thoughts and concerns of my fellow Louisianans. These conversations were highly encouraging and convinced me to officially explore the possibility of running for the United States Senate." She hasn't yet decided which party she wants to represent, though.

Sunday, she told Fox News, "If I was an outsider looking in, I'd think it sounds ludicrous. It really does," she said. "And I guess the whole thing is that (the public) dislikes David Vitter so much that they think I'm the best person for the job -- then I mean that's kind of scary."

She might want to check out Politico's report that "There’s no tough challenger ready to enter the ring, he’s sitting on more than $2.5 million and his approval rating is close to 60 percent," despite his previous involvement in a prostitution scandal.

One thing about Louisiana politics, it's never boring.

Rule 5 Sunday and Linkage

Your gratuitous Rule 5 Sunday photo this week is of non other than Eric Clapton. Not beefcake, but certainly HOT. Have I mentioned that I will be going to see Mr. Clapton in 23 days? AAAAAAAA!!!!!

It's been a busy news week and I was too busy to blog much, so here are the links and posts that kept me going and informed all week.

The ever witty Stacy McCain has the latest on Ted Rall turning on Obama. Seriously, Ted Rall! Babalu blog also weighed in on the subject.

No Sheeples Here has a lovely post on Cary Grant. I *heart* him! So suave!

How do you feel about cookies for terrorists? Gateway Pundit will clue you in.

The Daley Gator has a post on Mancow's faux waterboarding.

Fausta shows you how to determine what your glass-hold says about your personality. What kind are YOU?

Donald Douglas looks at Sotomayor on the issues; she's a "disaster," he says. He's also got some Mary Louise Parker Rule 5 action. Jimmie at The Sundries Shack also has a great Sotomayor post.

Snaggletoothie had some neat pictures this week; I loved the pictures of his neighborhood here, and I also loved the old Chesterfield ad pictures. That's what my mom continues to smoke, believe it or not. Gag.

Legal Insurrection warns of the "stealth nominee" which makes for interesting reading.

Suzanna Logan wanted to be a porn star? Oh well. If you can't spell, what other options are left to you?!

TrogloPundit weighs in on global warming and overpopulation. He's also got some hot Angie Rule 5 action.

Little Miss Attilla has the greatest post on the White House silencing dissent policy. If anyone could make me laugh on THAT topic, she did!

Senator Cornyn wants us all to SHUT UP! See what Doug Hagin has to say at Not One Red Cent!

Bride of Rove has had it with Team Obama. In fact, she'll tell you, "Monty Python is in the White House." I tend to agree.

Texas Rainmaker sounds off on the Black Panter story (with video).

Doug Ross has fantastic coverage of the DealerGate story.

SaberPoint has a post on Rush Limbaugh and self censorship that you should read. He makes a good point about Republicans and the Hispanic vote.

That should keep you going for a bit.

Rule Five Sunday and Linkage

My Rule 5 Sunday picture this week, in honor of Memorial Day, is the team of Operation Redwing. Remember the reason for the day.

"Navy SEALs (Sea, Air, Land) operating in Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. From left to right: Sonar Technician -- Surface 2nd Class (SEAL) Matthew G. Axelson, 29, of Cupertino, Calif; Information Systems Technician Senior Chief (SEAL) Daniel R. Healy, 36, of Exeter, N.H.; Quartermaster 2nd Class (SEAL) James Suh, 28, of Deerfield Beach, Fla.; Hospital Corpsman Second Class (SEAL) Marcus Luttrell; Machinist Mate 2nd Class (SEAL) Eric S. Patton, 22, of Boulder City, Nev.; LT (SEAL) Michael P. Murphy, 29, of Patchogue, N.Y. With the exception of the lone survivor, Luttrell, all were killed June 28, 2005 by enemy forces while supporting Operation Redwing 050628-N-0000X-001."

On to some fabulous linkage:

On the subject of Memorial Day, please start with Pamela Gellar's post about Obama's upcoming Germany visit. Seriously. Don't miss it.

Stacy McCain put up a wonderful defense of Mark Levin this week. Levin often gets heat for his abrasive style, and he certainly drew some this week with an insult or two that he delivered on his show. Stacy has the other side. Also, be sure to stay tuned into Not One Red Cent, which is picking up steam (and attention) daily!

I'm going to agree with The Other McCain and say that Carol at No Sheeples Here! has such a great blog; her photoshop work is off the charts and I'm shamelessly lifting her Memorial Day art just so maybe you'll go look at the rest of it. And her Full Metal Jacket Reach Around post just Rocks!! It's always a pleasure to look at her site. And for the record, she tells us that that's banana ice cream in the cooler. Yum!

Jimmie at The Sundries Shack has a round-up of the Pelosi-Palooza. William Jacobson also has an excellent post dealing with the RNC video.

Gateway Pundit is keeping us up to date with Susan Boyle!

Troglopundit made my day with these pics! This post is a keeper! Go check it out, even though he called me a "he" on his post about Not One Red Cent, and once tried to change my name to Sue.

If you can stand any more Meghan McCain, Vets on the Watch had a great post. I'm going out on a limb here, but I don't think he's a fan!

If you've been following Darrell's baby raccoon rescue, he has new pictures! The little fellas are growing and getting cuter every day.

Pundette wrote about the Cheney/Obama dueling speeches. Her take is well done!

If you're a fan of Marco Rubio, add this to your blogroll.

Snaggletoothie addresses the health care issue and the Garafalo issue all at the same time. He also helped smack a few trolls on my blog this week so I totally *heart* him!

Generational Patriot had a great post on credit card reform.

Fist Bumps for World Peace? Only by Donald Douglas! With photos!

Erick Erickson goes after Tom Ridge!

Yukio has been quiet this week but that's because he's busy writing. Wish him luck.

Sippican Cottage has a lovely Memorial Day post about Uncle Bobby. I'm tellin' you, if you haven't checked out this blog, you're missing something.

Rule 5 Sunday Linkage

Your gratuitous Sunday Rule Five beefcake this week is Heath Ledger. What a cutie!

The news cycle this week was consumed with Nancy Pelosi stories and I just couldn't bring myself to write about her. I can't read about her anymore, either, so here are some Non-Pelosi links for you.

Cynthia Yockey has the cutest cat pictures!

Babalu Blog has a couple of great posts on Marco Rubio here and here.

And speaking of Marco Rubio, Robert Stacy McCain has launched a new blog, Not One Red Cent! which highlights the folly of the NRSC endorsement of RINO Charlie Crist for the Florida Senate seat in 2010 over a true conservative such as Rubio. Yours truly is a contributing writer there, and I'm in the company of some really kickass bloggers, so check it out, and bookmark it!

Generation Patriot muses over the Huntsman appointment, uhm, I mean exile.

Moe Lane has posted a handy-dandy checklist. Are you compliant?

Yukio, who ALWAYS has my back against the trolls, has a hilarious post on the importance of words.

Jimmie at The Sundries Shack weighs in on the heath care debate. It's going to get nasty folks, and you should be doing your homework. Professor Jacobson also has some insight on this issue.

At first I thought Lance at TrogoPundit had been overindulging in Cheerios, but then I understood.

Robert Stacy McCain is seeing the light with regard to Obama's "unsustainable" comments. Open your wallets.

Donald Douglas at American Power has a great post on saving the Ford Motor Company. And scroll down for some Rule 5 Jessica Simpson action. WHO says she's fat?!

Be sure to read Carol's post at No Sheeples Here on Islam Day; did you realize it's actually on 9/11?

Have you ever seen a Blobfish? He's kinda cute! :)

And speaking of critters, we're going to have to get PETA after Sandy. But Darrell and the raccoons are safe from PETA. Not sure about the dog though!

Still on the critter front, add Michilenes to your list - she's been trolling this blog for days, trying very hard to insult everyone who comments. Go check out her blog and her cats. She at least has cute cats.

And finally, don't forget to check out Immersion. Jessica has finally made it to South Korea!

Saturday Linkage

Your gratuitous Rule 5 picture this week is Steve McQueen. After reading Gary Horne's Oh For a Western in American Thinker, I thought, "By jove! He's right!" and thought about one of my all time favorite westerns - The Magnificent Seven. Real men! No metrosexual, wine sipping, wagyu beef eating, designer suit wearing guys there! No sir!

Horne writes:

So what are we missing from the movie cowboy? What values did he possess?

1. Integrity The cowboy is true to his values. Of course, one has to have values first.

2. Courage The cowboy is brave enough to stand up for his values in the face of danger. He is willing to confront evil and do battle with the guys in the black hats.

3. Straight Talk A cowboy is a man of few, but honest, words. He says little, but when he talks he says something worthwhile. A cowboy would never spend five minutes spouting lawyerese and convoluted language leaving you asking, "What did he say?" In other words, no BS.

4. Dependable He never lets his friends or his horse down.

So on that note, on to linkage,

Troglopundit has been on a crazy link-fest filled week this week linking pretty much anything that anybody would send him. I even cashed in a couple of times and he changed my name to "Sue," then fixed it. I kind of liked Sue. It was a great, benevolent blogging strategy and he gained a reader in me, even if he did call Stacy McCain a big doodyhead. Check him out.

Robert Stacy McCain, always entertaining, had me going this week. He posted the Speedo picture again - oh my, and he took on Meghan McCain in a couple of posts here and here, sort of. It was National Offend a Feminist Week, after all.

Donald Douglas at American Power had a great post entitled Mainstream Bigotry and Racism on the Democratic-Left that you should read.

Gateway Pundit has a great clip and commentary of Bill O'Reilly taking Obama to school on his bogus Churchill reference.

Professor Jacobson takes on Pelosi's credibility - what little of it there is, and also reveals himself to be a Yes fan! Woot! Good times! I loved them myself, back in the day.

Carol at No Sheeples Here is the MASTER of photoshop! Don't get me wrong - her posts are equally great, but you can't help but laugh at her treatment of the ScareForce One shot! Love it!
Makes me want to go learn Photoshop.

Pundette tipped me to the cowboy article referenced above, but she also has a great post on Obama asking for a private screening of Star Trek. Some of her commenters seem to have taken her to task for it, but I'm on her side. He's without class, Pundette. He can't help it.

Critical Narrative had a post on the Chinese ships harassing our American ships - first I'd heard of it, actually. I read a lot of news, but missed this one. But, as Yukio points out, the media is pretty much ignoring it.

Red Stick Rant points out harassment over...bumper stickers?!

Check out the progress of Darrell Rebouche's baby raccoon rescue!

Susanna takes on Obama's hypocrisy and has cute puppy pictures, too!

Cynthia Yockey no longer *hearts* Joe the Plumber, and be sure to check out Obama eating a hot dog. Great picture.

Enough linkage for now. The Barksdale Air Show is flying over my house and I have to run out on the deck and stare at the sky. Steve and I have a wedding to attend tonight (no, not ours) and I have things to do. So go read something.

Saturday Linkage with Russell Crowe

Your gratuitous Rule 5 Sunday picture this week is a very fit looking Russell Crowe from his upcoming Robin Hood movie. Can't wait for that one!

There were some intriguing blog posts this week and some great articles from my regular reading lists. Here are some you should take a look at if you missed them:

Brutally Honest has a great post on the revival of CIFTA and the hazards therein. This treaty is a nasty can of worms for advocates of the Second Amendment and we're going to need to watch it carefully. It isn't being marketed as "gun control" so your leges can vote for it and not have to answer, really, to their constituents that they've attacked the Second Amendment. See also Locust Blog.

Also, Red Stick Rant had a great post on the gun control issue. As he says, proof "that Mainstream Media coverage of a court decision about gun control is directly proportional to how much control of guns that decision gives."

Loved Pundette's post about Shoe Wars! But, where was the picture of McCain's loafers?! Fausta's Blog also entered the shoe discussion; I like her William Morris print shoes MUCH better than Michelle's ugly sneaks.

snaggletoothie has a great video of Marcia Ball! After my Time Trippin' post last night, I can't tell you how much fun it was to watch that one! Loved it!

Do NOT miss Robert Stacy McCain's post Of Hope and Hubris. Most excellent work.

Little Miss Attila weighs in on health care, a subject which makes my ears bleed. Leave my insurance alone!!!

EVERYTHING posted at Sippican Cottage is a pure joy to read but I loved his geranium post this week. It suited me just fine. I want to be a writer like Sippican when I grow up.

American Power has a great write up on the anti-socialism rally in Pasadena. Victoria Jackson!

Don't miss the post at No Sheeples Here about your grand Obama stimulus $$. He's going to be wanting that back next April.

Greta Perry at Kiss My Gumbo defends lovely New Orleans and points to the article comparing it to ... Baghdad?!

If you read only one thing this week it should be yukio's discussion of Conservatism at Critical Narrative. Monique Stuart also weighed in on the Conservatives issue.

Darrell Rebouche rescues baby racoons. Too cute warning.

I know whenever I go to Texas Rainmaker there's going to be a great post. Swine Flew (about Arlen Specter, of course) was no exception!

Israel Matzav has an interesting perspective on issues and reports on things most other blogs are not. Be sure to check it out.

I'm thinking Professor Jacobson is pulling for Deval Patrick to replace Souter! ;)

Cynthia Yockey went to Carrie Prejean's press conference!

And finally, go meet Daisy!

Rule 5 Sunday Linkage

Your gratuitous Rule Five Sunday picture this week is Jake Gyllenhall! What a cutie!

My Sunday linkage:

First of all, Nikki has fired her blog back up again after a little break. Her blog reflects her super fun personality and you should check it out. It's a great blog and I'm not just saying that because I'm her mother!

Speaking of fun blogs, Sandy in Minden has a wonderful little place on the net! If you aren't reading her blog, you're missing a little sunshine in your day.

American Power has a great review of Mark Levin's book. I'm about halfway through it. I got sidetracked by the Leo Thorsness book and I'm also halfway through a second reading of Atlas Shrugged. I last read that one thirty years ago and I've forgotten a lot!

Speaking of books, Robert Stacy McCain provides a reading list.

Cynthia Yockey has a tribute to Bea Arthur.

Pundit and Pundette has a great post on Janet Napolitano. Is there anymore MORE inept than JaNo? Good grief.

I'm linking Sippican Cottage this week because this guy is a damn good writer; I loved his Al Capone post!

To get another Louisiana perspective, be sure you read Red Stick Rant!

Critical Narrative had a great post on the "Obama is Hip" article that appeared this week. I absolutely adore Yukio's blog.

That ought to keep you busy for a while. Check back later for updates!

Rule 5 Sunday Linkage

Your gratuitous Rule 5 picture this week is Patrick Swayze because I loved him as Johnny Castle and I'm praying for Patrick Swayze.

Some things you need to go read from this week:

On the torture memo release, nobody did it better than IBDEditorials (well, except maybe Mukasey and Hayden.)

A small excerpt from IBD:

"These top secrets will arm Islamist jihadists with knowledge that will be invaluable to them. Future terrorist detainees will now know, for instance, that their interrogations are under continual video surveillance to make sure no lasting medical or psychological consequences result from the techniques used. Will they now teach themselves to fake such ill effects?

Terrorists will know that when they are placed in a tiny container in "cramped confinement" it will last only "up to two hours," as a declassified memo from the Justice Department to the CIA noted. They will know that "stress positions" are used "only to induce temporary muscle fatigue" not 'severe physical pain.'"

Critical Narrative had an excellent post this week on fascism and how the word is so loosely used these days without much thought to its meaning. You must read it.

Professor William Jacobson has a fabulous smack down of The New York Times!

If you missed Robert Stacy McCain's 'Bama speech you must go watch it - priceless!

Sister Toldjah has a tiny reminder about Obama's foreign language defict, but remember, we all need to learn one (I'm covered - I speak French).

Babalu Blog is still ALL OVER Obama's Cuba policy - good stuff.

Pundette sounds off as only Pundette can on the "Tea-Bagging" story.

If you want to see gorgeous pictures and read beautifully written narrative on Japan and Guam, do NOT miss Immersion. Absolutely stunning.

Bride of Rove has a lot of "cents"!!

And finally, Texas Rainmaker reminds us all of The Audacity of Unawareness. Be sure you read that.

Full Metal Jacket Reach Around

Your gratuitous Rule 5 picture today is Hugh "Wolverine" Jackman.

Here's my Saturday Round-up and linkfest:

Snaggletoothie has a video of the liberals attempt to infiltrate the Tea Parties. Also, Instapundit tries to clarify the Tea Party issue for those that STILL DON'T GET IT.

Robert Stacy McCain smacks down James Wolcott, and I couldn't agree more. I don't like to admit this out loud (so I'll just admit it on the internet) but I used to subscribe to VF. After one too many "green" issues or other liberal cause themed issue, I had to let it go. Little Miss Attila weighs in on Wolcott and VF as well.

In the spirit of Easter, I link now to my friend Professor William Jacobson's post from Tuesday on the Newsweek article, "The Decline and Fall of Christian America." This was a great post and a must read. Look around while you're there - he has some great stuff.

Pundit & Pundette has a smack down of Joe Biden! Ah, Joe! Nobody messes with Joe, right? Wrong. Also with a Biden post is Critical Narrative.

On the issue of the pirates and the captured captain, No Sheeples Here has some words on Obama's silence.

Monique Stuart has a wonderful post on the upcoming immigration battle. Monique is also pressing ahead with her campaign to change Rule 5 Sunday to any day that ends in y. I'm all for it. You have my vote Monique!

I've alread linked to this one yesterday, but if you didn't go check out Sippican Cottage, go do it! I'm not gonna tell you again!

There were several good posts this week on the Cuba kerfuffle. Vets on the Watch has a great one. Another go-to blog for this issue is of course Babalu Blog. You just have to read everything there - it's wonderful.

My favorite new blog I've discovered this week is Bride of Rove (LOVE the name). There is a post there on President Pantywaist that is spot on. Her Obama Art post cracked me up!

Here's a great WSJ Opinion article on Obama's pre 9/11 mentality.

Sarah has a post on Critical Politics about Biased Education - a topic near and dear to my heart. Don't even get me started on textbook bias. That reminds me - I meant to blog about the statement on Gitmo in our next literature text and forgot. Maybe this week.

(Welcome, Fausta's blog!)

Sunday Round-Up and Links

I'm on the road this week but here's your Rule 5 Sunday Beefcake; he's no RSM in a Speedo, but you can make do with David Beckham.

I'm in Dallas this weekend for the Mavs/Suns basketball game, and having a wonderful time! My awesome daughter gave me an early Mothers Day gift of ERIC CLAPTON TICKETS!!!!!!!!! If you know me at all you know how cool this is. I've never seen Clapton and I just want to scream my lungs out right now with excitement and glee! SO cool! Can NOT wait!

Ok so here's my Sunday links:

Robert Stacy McCain deals with Kathleen Parker.

Be sure to read Professor William Jacobson's piece on Berkely Law Professor George Bisharat. He also has his Blago Blog guide!

No Sheeples Here has a post on the Obama Go For Broke Economic Plan.

Snaggletoothie has posted an interesting cartoon from 1934.

The Anchoress is astute as always.

Don't miss Sarah's lovely photos of spring in Georgia!

Great profile of Laura Bush on Women of the GOP.

And my new BFF Pundette has a great round-up of last week!

Saturday Round-Up

Your gratuitous Rule 5 Sunday picture this week is of course Robert Stacy McCain and his Speedo!

Stacy wrote a great post this week on The Ransom Note Method which is how Rush Limbaugh became ensnared in the "FAIL" kerfuffle. It also explains the Ezra Klein tactics toward Ann Althouse to some degree. Go read the post - it's pure genius.

While you are visiting RSM be sure to check out the Menu-ized version of The Rules. I can't seem to beg or buy any link-love from Instapundit OR Memeorandum, but I'll keep invoking Rule 1 and my small contribution of Rule 2 in hopes that one day it will happen. Just so I can say they linked me.

I made a new BFF this week in Pundit and Pundette; I LOVE this site. LOVE LOVE the layout, too. I love Pundette's take in this post about the Economist article. Can I use the word "LOVE" one more time for this link?!

Little Miss Attila has some wise advice for BHO about the carpet.

Critical Narrative has a GREAT post on the subject of evil.

Professor William Jacobson calls out Ezra Klein - we're waiting Ezra. C'mon. Shy?

The Anchoress has the latest Hillary gaffe. Ed at Hot Air has some words on the same subject.

Women of the GOP has a great profile of Supriya Jindal.

Clever S.Logan has a new candidate for the Oval Office.

Sister Toldjah has the latest on the SCOTUS bashing.

Update: Welcome Memeorandum readers!! Thanks Memeo, for the link! :)

Sunday Link Round-Up

Your gratuitious Rule 5 Beefcake picture this week is: Dennis Quaid.

American Power has a great post entitled Disrespecting the Presidential Office in which he says:

"It seems to me that there's a majesty to the office that goes beyond the individual occupant in power. Barack Obama campaigned for a year as a coolster, someone who was down with the younger generations. President Obama makes it known that he likes the Rolling Stones, and one of his biggest priorities in office is to install a basketball court in the White House (and now he's picking tournament brackets for the NCAA Championship). Sure, he's entitled, but when he makes it a point to go on Jay Leno's show amid a both a national crisis and an executive scandal, and is quick to ridicule - however inadvertently - those of limited physical abilities, it seems as though slapping down some late-night jive is more important than slapping down his own administration's tax-cheats and policy imbeciles."

Robert Stacy McCain has a critique of the Obama Ethics Rules (which is a sort of ironic companion piece to the above American Power post!)

William Jacobson is getting a lot of response on his Ezra Klein/Ann Althouse piece; he was linked in Memeorandum, among others. Klein was behind a nasty piece of work and should be exposed for it. High five to Jacobson for calling him on it.

My friend Sarah points us to the new Women of the GOP blog; check it out!

And if you're in the Shreveport area, don't forget to check out the Shreveport Tea Party site.

Monique Stuart has a DEAD ON post about your "rights." She's right inside my head on this one. This is a topic that makes me crazy -- the whole sense of entitlement thing.

Oh dear. Don't miss Ed's Obamateurism of the Day. It's a painful 40 seconds.

More to come throughout the day.