Boiling Your Blood:

While you, Mr. and Mrs. Average American, have seen your wealth go down over the past 25 years, the average congressman has gotten 2 1/2 times richer.

Now, make no mistake, this hasn't occurred because working in congress is so profitable, although no politician ever leaves office poorer than when he enters. The wealth growth has occurred because the demographics of who runs and wins a congressional seat has shifted.

Once upon a time, congress actually had some resemblance to its constituency. At least in terms of the wealth of its members when they entered office. Nowadays the place consists of almost solely of the country club set. And yes, that includes Republicans, who make up the majority in the House. Is it any wonder that their views are identical to those of the Koch brothers?

See The Washington Post article.

Gandalf engages an Orc in combat: "What have you done with the Hobbits?"

Gandalf with several Hobbits before their last sighting in 2007.

World's last Hobbit sighting. Look closely at the keyhole on the left of The Devil's Stand-Table. Large, furry footprints are evident in the stone. Reportedly, the Hobbit is wearing a mysterious ring that inhibits detection, but that seems unlikely.

Saturday afternoon after mowing the grass in the back yard. The ground is slightly uneven.