A fast burning candle still shines a lovely light.

     I was sleeping last night when Matt came in to tell me Christopher Hitchens had Cancer. I vaguely remember a feeling of brief shock before involuntarily sinking back into my slumber. I had forgotten completely until this morning, and I came to the computer looking for the interview online, with the understanding that Hitchens had already lost his hair.
    I've known people with Cancer. I've known some who have been through the horrible Chemical warfare inside their own bodies to attempt escape from it. The thought of it all is paralyzing. As Anderson Cooper's interview with Hitchens played, I couldn't keep the tears from falling. Although seeing the wispy remnants of fine hair left on his head played a significant role in my tearful shock and immediate emotional strife, I found myself thinking more of the man, the persona, the pure ball of intellectual fire that we may be losing from this planet potentially very soon.

From an article in which he
speaks of his recently waxed
testicles.

    For those who aren't familiar with him or his antics, I'll give you a brief summary of my personal view of him: ...let's see.... a drunk. an asshole. a man not too much into appearances. abrasive. crass. ....but brutally honest. and confident. a realist. well-read. dryly hilarious. sickeningly intelligent. and I would add brave, although that denotes that he has some bit of fear, however I don't believe he ever has had any of that. (More bio info, click here!)

Understanding all the character--uhh--distinctiveness (I wouldn't dare say flaws) he possesses, and embracing the absolutely admirable aspects of his character, I am feeling a good bit sad for him today. The last 6, 7, 8 years have been a sort of intellectual and spiritual journey for me. Hitchens, among others, was there when I needed someone to listen to and learn from who felt what I felt. He helped me gain a new vocabulary for things I had never had to put to words before. I appreciate (and at certain times am very envious of) how straight forward he is with people who battle and debate him. Nothing seems to rattle him.
    There are quite a few lessons to be learned from this "breaking news" of his growing Cancer: avoid alcoholism at all costs. quit smoking NOW. live life to the fullest (bleh, cliche, I know) and lastly, Even Atheists aren't immortal. Thinking of you today, Hitch.

My Favorite Top Ten Things: Take 2

Top Ten Favorite Things About Being Alice's Mom

10. I now have to keep my floors clean(er).

9. Waking up at 6:15 has never been a pleasure - until now.

8. She enjoys hearing me sing, something no one else has ever enjoyed. 

7. I compose awesome songs like the "Stinky Poo Poo" song, and the "Look at Baby Alice Lookin in the Mirror" song and of course the "You're Such a Roly Poly, Please Stop Moving so I can Change Your Diaper" song.

6. Seeing her gorgeous smile when I come into her room first thing in the mornings.

5. Trying to figure out what she's going to be when she grows up based on her ability to jump, eat her feet and scream.

4. Watching her learn something new every single day.

3. There's nothing cooler than seeing yourself and the love of your life combined into another beautiful human being.

2. I have never experienced love like this. And she reminds me why I should be a better person.

1. She's simply the best. I couldn't have asked for a better starter baby.  (Look out, #2!)