Say Hello To My Leetle Fraind.

This has been a very tough week. We got news that our Agency will be sending pink slips out to certain positions. I did not think I had anything to worry about, but they will make another round of cuts by Nov. 13. So with that hanging over my head, it was hard to concentrate or think about anything else. It will not be based on performance, but overlapping job titles. So goes the newspaper industry's decline and loss to the Web.

Second, we had a shooting next door. The man was killed. I saw it happen. I did not get a good look at the shooter, because after the three shots were fired into the guy, I was locking all the doors and dialing 911. They still do not have a suspect. It was not my neighbor, just two random drug addicts or gang members. Thanks for that, asswipes!

So, it was time to go to the mall. Christy needed to go there last night, which timed perfectly with Apple's release of the new iPod Shuffle. 1 GB - $79. Great deal! It is awesome! I mean AWE-SOME! With every release, the iPods get smaller or bigger and cooler. I have very good reason to add this iPod to the collection of iPods at our house, too. Running. Have you tried running with a regular iPod? Try an iPod video with no arm band? It is extremely cumbersome and unfun. I use mine because I am training for half marathon and need the motivation. But the weight combined with the long cord drove me nuts. So with this new addition, it will be marvelous. I can just clip it onto my jacket or shirt, press play, and take off! Bring on the Hoobastank!

Yesterday I ran 5.6 miles. A first for me. I couldn't believe how easy it was. I could have gone another mile or two. I think the bagel two hours before may have made the difference. And also frame of mind. The benefits are starting to show in both distance and my body.