Pinch me...

...because I think I'm dreaming! I just got back to my apartment on campus, anticipating the beginning of the semester Monday morning. Then I found out from Chad that we get 5 weeks off for break this year instead of the usual 4. I'm definitely not complaining, though, and I plan to revel in the awesomeness of 7 extra days off.

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After having a long talk with Mike about the rent vs. buy debate last Friday I went with Nick, Ahmad, and Jim to the Easy Street Pub on Saturday. I have to say that I was disappointed by that place. It could be that I've never been to a bar-only establishment before, but I did not enjoy all the smoke or the atmosphere of the place. The place is kind of a dump in my opinion and I would much rather go somewhere like the Cue-Rag or to a newer sports bar or club. I did enjoy seeing everybody there and chatting with them, though, so it definitely wasn't a total bust.

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In what can only be described as a total surprise, it seems Randy Moss is still an asshole. (Oh wait, that's not a surprise at all!) Rest assured, I have no love for the Packers or their fans, but when he "mooned" the Lambeau Field faithful today I thought he went out of line. Yeah, I know that he didn't jump into the stands and start beating people up, but he just seems to go out of his way to act in a classless manner. I, for one, hope he never plays for the Bears or any other team I respect. (Those guidelines, of course, leaves him free to stay with Minnesota.)

In other sports news, Carlos Beltran spurned the Astros to sign with the Mets. This is great for the Cubs because it not only hurts Houston's offense but diminishes the chances of Roger Clemens returning in 2005. Here's hoping the Cubs sign Magglio to a one year, incentive-laden contract and use the financial flexibility he affords them over Beltran to make some mid-season moves, if necessary.

In the world of basketball, my two teams—the Bulls and the Tar Heels—are both playing well right now. I do not wish to jinx them, however, so I will just leave it at that.

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Finally, after commenting on the premiere of Alias last Wednesday I have to do the same for 24. The first two hours aired on Sunday and they were spectacular! Lots of action, tension, and excitement so far and it looks like it will continue. Two more episodes are on tonight—can't wait! In related news, my mom wants to watch my DVDs of the show after reading good reviews for the new season in the newspaper, so I may have another convert. My sister also wants to borrow Alias, so that's two! As for myself, I borrowed my sister's copy of Felicity, which might seem odd until you realize it's a J.J. Abrams creation so it simply must be spectacular.

Speaking of which, I think I'll watch that now before hitting the sack. I'll probably be in bed at 4 AM, only 4 hours before I was supposed to wake up today before I found out I have no school. Life is grand!

-Mark