And, it seems like a friend from college has the same morning lack of clarity as me, as he just called to see if I was ok...even though I don't leave until next week, which he seemed to realize mid-message.

But I called him back and let him know all was good. We were in college for 9/11 and spent most of that day together, and I think a lot of it was coming back for him. I guess it's habit- something bad happens, call everybody you know.

Cereal:

The Today Show just broke to the local news update. The story? People waited hours in line at the DMV this past week.

No, really. That's news.

I guess it's habit- something bad happens, call everybody you know.

Yeah, on 9/11, everyone was calling their parents, and it's like...my family is in Arlington, Texas. They are totally and utterly safe. But I guess we have to make sure. Just to check and confirm. Cause when the world goes crazy, you never know.

we had two of these arrested here last week for being such

Wow. Remind me to prettify if I ever come see you!

They wouldn't let Egyptians into the club, Fay?!

Color me gobsmacked. WTF? What is this, 1870?

Now, I admit that while I was in London, the majority of people I hung out with were Americans -- because I was living in a house full, and all my profs and fellow classmates were American. Also, 19 years old, and not exactly the brazen wench I am today. But I simply didn't understand the kids who only ate at McDonalds, and complained about the "fuuny accents" and no ice, and all that crap. I was all like "Why the fuck did you COME here?"

People are STUPID. The older I get, the more apparent this truth is.

Also, what do you all think of this no zero-grades policy? I think it's pretty ridiculous, but I'm interested in seeing what others think.

Oh dear. Thanks, Polter-Cow. Cause I don't think my mother's in England, but... it can be hard to know, with her.

50% for not turning in an assignment? That's stupid. I can see saying that if you try at all, you don't get a zero, but for not trying...that's what zeroes are for.

Yeah, on 9/11, everyone was calling their parents, and it's like...my family is in Arlington, Texas

Yup. It was cell phone madness. I'd see people on two phones at once.

Hmm. I can sort of see the logic behind it, Erin -- if there's effectively nothing between 0 and 50 (not doing the work or, say, answering only one question and that badly), then how logical is the numbering? It would make rather more sense to recalibrate and say the highest you can get is a 50, but this is effectively the same thing.

On the other hand, there is a significant difference between barely doing the work and not doing it at all, which should be reflected. Still, that gap between 0 and 50 has always bugged me.

Thanks, Polter-Cow. Cause I don't think my mother's in England, but... it can be hard to know, with her.

That...made me laugh, which it shouldn't have, but thank you anyway, because I need laughs at the moment. I have a friend who hasn't checked in. I hope your mother is not in England.