Open Thread Monday

Good morning, everyone. Please feel free to comment on whatever you’d like here. Here’s what I’ve been up to:

  • Watching HBO’s John Adams miniseries. We don’t get HBO at home, but my wife’s parents do, so they’ve been taping it for us. I’ve seen up through the third episode now. It’s very good — I like the authenticity of the sets, costumes, etc. The actors were well cast, too. I had read McCullough’s book (on which the miniseries is based) several years ago, and it is excellent.
  • Doing my taxes. I usually do my taxes in February, but for whatever reason, I’m just now getting around to it — right before the deadline.
  • Reading about ATSF’s Super Chief train (1935-1971). Amtrak’s Southwest Chief follows roughly the same route today. I’m always amazed by how much skill and effort went into the details back then. For example, a professional designer was hired to decorate the train in authentic Navajo patterns/designs and they hired professional chefs and waiters to provide fine dining on the 39+ hour trip. Nowadays, things like craftsmanship, fine food, and first class service are generally seen as inefficient, too expensive, and ultimately unnecessary.
  • Oh yes, and I also read the latest Kellar Branch editorial in Sunday’s paper. Yawn.

What’s new with you? Anything you’d like to share?