Huh. You learn something new every day.

Today, I did something new.

I read the newspaper.

I've never been a news buff. I try, and then I get distracted by shiny objects.

Ooh, look, tinfoil!

Just kidding.

Whee! Glitter!

Just kidding again.

So the other day I was thinking to myself, "Carolyn, why are you so clueless about the world?"

I blame my lack of television.

But seriously, that whole Chilean miner thing? I knew when they on #13's rescue. Because I happened to pop into the gym that day and it was on the telly.

That's sad.

So my now-resolution (why wait for January 1?) was to be better informed.

It's way more fun to debate things when you know what the hell you're talking about anyway.

(via)

Today I learned that the National Weather Service has an official benchmark for determining whether a Christmas is "white" or not (1" on Christmas morning). I found out that the newest campaign against President Obama is centered around his alleged lack of American pride (the word "exceptionalism" was used 21 times), and that there's a really cool organization helping Iraq and Afghanistan war vets find a new purpose and a life-long career. I also read a totally inconclusive article about the benefits of organic foods, made a list of produce to always always buy organic, and was inspired to look up the locations of farmer's markets in Austin.

Oh, and BP claims that the oil spill is all better and there will be no long-term damage.

To which I say, "Bull."

But that's just my little disaster geek/environmentalist talking.

Turns out the world really is an interesting place. Huh. Who knew?