We just realized that one of Tim's cousins ran the marathon today. We have not heard otherwise, so we're assuming he's fine. We looked up his finish time, which was WELL before the explosions. (Seriously, he's 41 years old and finished the marathon in 2:31. DAMN, BILL. He averaged right around a 6-minute mile for 26 fucking miles. SERIOUSLY DAMN, BILL.)

So he would have been done and gone by the time of the explosion, and, like I said, since we haven't heard otherwise, we're going to assume he's fine.

Yeah, we found out one of our friends who ran was on target to get to the line at the time of the explosions, but cramped up, and so arrived about a half an hour afterward, and therefore helped with the aftermath (he's a pastor).

Jesus H. Christ, Humans! Stop doing this shit!

So glad to hear Buffistas are ok.

The early report about ball bearings seems to be true:

CNN has confirmed that the explosive devices that did detonate were loaded with ball bearings. Those devices, already low to the ground, have resulted in a number of injuries and have forced hospitals to perform amputations on the wounded who have suffered damage to their lower extremities.

Also, the bombs were homemade and not made with high grade explosives. So they were definitely designed to maim. Since the bombs were on the ground the shrapnel was like fifty shotguns going off at knee level.

I just can't about Boston.

Instead, I will share with you a picture that should be saved for when you need a smile: Harry Belafonte and Sidney Poitier: [link] It's from the NAACP Awards that just happened.

I made the mistake of looking at some of the pictures. Some of what is being published is just beyond necessary. I know I'm going to need my lorazepam to sleep tonight.

I stopped looking at pictures and video almost immediately.

My advice for court is tell the truth, but don't volunteer information you haven't been asked for.

Also, be abject. You are very sorry. You've got a good job. You've never done anything like this before. Mainly, an apology goes a long way.

I am assiduously not looking. I do not need photographic evidence to feel compassion.

I have Issues with splattered blood. It reminds me of my FIL's suicide and cleaning up afterward. It has been 10 years and I know my triggers. Why I looked, I don't know.