God, this is going to make us sound like the most horrible yuppies in the universe. We actually went to University Village today--voluntarily. I was on a mission, you see: to acquire safe enclosures (read: lanterns) for candles so we can light the corners of the living room with candle light. Was impressed by all the nice young saleswomen (and one salesman) at Restoration Hardware. They work hard to help people buy their ridiculously overpriced but adorable merchandise. And we managed to score three of the little votive-sized lanterns for $30. And then plates right next door at Pottery Barn! Before enjoying a Starbucks oat and chocolate bar. (Guess which one won!) And then driving past the Kidd Valley on 25th, all around the pretty little park at the east entrance to Ravenna Blvd and the pretty little street all the fancy-schmancy houses are on that we used to walk along when we were first together. And then went to...

Mark and Barb go to the movies: Coffee and Cigarettes (dir. Jim Jarmusch) Among many other categories that divide the world into two parts, there are people who think Jim Jarmusch is a wanker, and there are those who think he's funnier than hell. It depends a lot on context (and the individual viewer) what turns to junk and what turns to gold in his movies. So if you didn't find Stranger than Paradise, say, uproarious, then you might as well spend your money on Shrek 2. If you're in Jimbo's camp, I think you'll find a lot to enjoy (and laugh at) here. My favorites: two Cate Blanchetts, Jack and Meg White, GZA and RZA from Wu-Tang Clan along with Bill Murray, Alfred Molina/Steve Coogan (24-Hour Party People, y'all!), and Bill Rice/Taylor Mead as cantankerous but affectionate old coots. Mark's rating: ***


Listening: Earl Hines Plays Duke Ellington People claim Erroll Garner was the happiest jazz musician ever, but I think Earl is right on up there. (Which is why he and Louis Armstrong blew the roof off the first duet they recorded.)