This has been a stunning night.  Damn...

First of all, if you didn't watch the opening ceremonies for the '08 Olympics, you missed one hell of a show.  I don't care what your political stance is on the situation over there, you can't deny the fact that these people are stand-out performers.  Just look at these stinking gorgeous shots.

On top of that, I got a call from my mom saying that she and Dad are gonna drive out tomorrow to adopt a pair of Hyacinth Macaws.  Good lord, I thought she just wanted another bird Charlie's size or smaller.  Instead they're getting two enormous ones.  Exciting, but holy cow!  And I was nervous about the fact that I'd have to inherit one big loudmouth parrot.