Future King

Ok, so maybe we Americans are a bit obsessed with the British royal family.  But seriously, it's fascinating, and although we spent many years and countless lives asserting our independence, you can't blame us for being a little envious and curious about some of the traditions lost during the Revolution.

The future King of England was born Monday.  While this may not have as much significance in modern society as it did three hundred years ago, it's still not an everyday occurrence.  In fact, the last time it happened was over thirty years ago.  I was still in gradeschool, yet I remember it like it was yesterday.

Cellphones and internet had not yet invaded out lives, so we still got our news the old-fashioned way---the nightly news, gossip shows such as "Entertainment Tonight" broadcast on the 3 available networks (yes, I said 3!), and trash rags like the "National Enquirer."  Back in the day, events like royal births were big events, even more so than the tabloid frenzy we see today.

Those were the days...good times...

Monarchist or not, congratulations to the happy family, and here's to holding on to the remaining bits of tradition that connect us to our past.

Florida Weather

So---

After my first full week of Florida residency, I am happy to report that I have already made numerous observations, the kind noticed by only a true local, which have led me to conclude the following.

The weather forecast here is quite possibly the least accurate of any place I've lived.

Every day, same forecast, scattered showers, chances of rain, blah, blah, blah.

Except the rain never comes.  Is it some sort of twisted mind game?

I suppose most people would be happy to avoid a summer downpour, but I honestly would like to avoid having to artificially water my lawn.  So I can't help but feel a bit deceived when the rain never come.

Can someone please explain to me if this is an intentional trick, or if perhaps the rain does hit some areas (hence the use of the word scattered)?  Maybe this has something to do with the weird peninsular geography of the state and the fact that it is surrounded by water on so many sides.

I guess I'm not that much of a local yet.  I'll report back next year, when maybe I'll have drawn more well-founded conclusions surrounding this sort of phenomena.

Finally Moved

OK, it's official.  As of last Friday night, I'm a resident of the state of Florida.  To be more specific, I'm calling Ponte Vedra Beach, located between Jacksonville and St. Augustine, home.

Moving stinks, but I'm getting settled in fairly quickly.  There are still a never-ending amount of projects to be completed, but that comes with the territory.  I'm very excited about all the new adventures.  Everything from going to the grocery store seems new.

More changes to come....

4th of July

Hot damn.  4th of July and a four-day weekend.

For my non-American readers, this is when my people celebrate our declaration of independence from England.  While I generally support freedom and such, I really do like most things British, and will probably spend a fair amount of the time off watching Wimbledon.

Before I become fully engaged in the tennis, I'm leaving for Florida today to house hunt.  Yep, a move is on the horizon.  Aside from necessitating a change in the title of this blog, moving is going to be a huge pain in my arse, and I think I'm still in denial.

But change is good, so will persevere through the tough times...