Gene Dries sent me this photo of two of my favorite artists - James Taylor and Take 6.

Okay, I would not have believed this had I not heard it on television (so it must be true, right?)  Do you remember Bubbles the chimp, one of Michael Jackson's favorite pets?  Apparently, Bubbles grew far beyond his cute, cuddly stage and was moved to Florida, to live comfortably there.  The news story claimed that he was taught to moon walk.  But here's the kicker . . . someone offered to fly Bubbles to Los Angeles for the Michael Jackson Memorial.  No kidding?  I don't hear of animals attending funerals that often, do you?

* * *

Here's a report I did not need to hear . . . Last week, a study actually revealed that people who are overweight live longer.  Yes, that was the report.  I did not hear a mention of how much weight or to what degree, but considering my struggle in controlling weight gain, this report did not need to grace my ears.  (Isn't it odd how conflicting reports surface all the time, contradicting previous announcements?)  On second thought, I suppose it wasn't the Twinkies that killed Elvis, but the drug abuse.

* * *

It happened again.  While at the airport in St. Louis this week, I heard a loud voice directed toward me, coming from the only other person within a reasonable distance.  I almost responded to his words, only to discover he was wearing one of those blue tooth phone attachments on his ear and talking to someone (looking quite odd, as if talking to himself loudly.)  Remind me not to do this.  Or, if I start doing this, take me off the assembly line.  Gently.

* * *

I made the plunge.  I now have Rosetta Stone on my computer so I can begin learning Brazilian Portuguese in earnest.  There will not be enough time to make a difference for our tour to Brazil later this month with the Acafellas (ACAPPELLA), but at least I can get a start on next year.  We have a passion for the churches and the wonderful people of Brazil.  Obrigado.

* * *

ACAFEST 2009 was a wonderful experience!  The variety of hearing Russian vocalists presenting classical music, mixed with a solo R&B artist (former member of The Gap Band), combined with praise teams from Indiana, Kansas, Oklahoma and so much more, brought quite a buffet of a cappella Christian music to Music City.  Of course, I was very proud of The Vocal Union, Durant, AVB and ACAPPELLA.  This quality event was very affordable, especially with dorm housing available to families on a budget.  I'm wondering how we can promote this so that more can enjoy this summer family getaway.  Any ideas?