Not even the lead story

On Thursday, an entire family was found dead in this very ordinary looking bungalow. Six people snuffed out. Two were children.

At first the rumor was that it was a murder- suicide. On Friday, the coroner confirmed that every member of this family had been murdered, no signs of suicide.

The murderers are still out there. So far, no suspects or "persons of interest" have been mentioned by the police.

This evening, it wasn't the top news story. It wasn't even the top crime story. Two people were shot this afternoon on bucolic sounding Cypress Drive in suburban Bolingbrook and two Gary high school football players were shot this evening.

Dear God! We're now living in a world where six murders in one household can be old news in less than 72 hours. I don't know what to do with all my disgust and horror.

I did plenty of nothin'

Every weekend I intend to accomplish soooo much. And today, I did none of it. (OK, I have done laundry and dishes and grocery shopped, but that doesn't begin to make a dent in the mess that is my condo.)

Usually when I'm this lazy, I get mad at myself. But not today. Because most of today I spent observing Joey. After being my fur buddy for 17 years, I feel like I owe him this level of affection and attention as his life ends.

He stares a lot, because I don't think he can see well anymore. He wobbles as he gets up or settles in, because of his debilitating arthritis. He sleeps a lot, but then even as a young gun he liked his naps. But he doesn't get on furniture anymore unless I put him there. No more jumping for Joe.

At about 1:00 today, I'd decided that it was time to say good bye. I was going to call the vet and make an appointment to put him down on Tuesday. And then something funny happened ...

I took my jewelry off, looping my rings onto my watchband for safekeeping. When they clanged together, Joey brightened and slapped at the watch. I got out the laser pointer and damn if he didn't chase it for a moment. So his life does still have joy in it. And I don't think he would move like that if he was in pain.

So I'm not putting him down just yet. I have quit giving him his blood pressure/vision meds. As I said, I think his vision is gone already and getting dosed frightens him. The sad truth is that he's not going to live much longer, with the medicine or without, so let's spare each other that.

Saturday 9

Saturday 9: Sorry

1) This song is a plea for a second chance. Are you good at forgiving/forgetting? I forgive but I never forget. I'm not proud of this. I'm just being honest.

2) Justin asks his girl to "forget this." What have you done/said recently that you wish could just be forgotten? I had a terrible time Friday evening, trying to pay at the self-service kiosk at CVS. It was an annoying way to end a long week.

3) Mr. Bieber says he needs just 6 hours sleep every night. How about you? How much sleep do you require to feel sharp? Who would believe Justin and I have anything in common? Yet it's true. Six hours sleep is good for me, too.

4) Justin prefers D and G underwear, which can cost as much as $102/pair. Sam may be crazy, but there's no way she'd spend that much on underwear. What's something you're willing to splurge on? Paper towels. As a pet owner, I have learned that economizing on those doesn't actually save any money whatsoever.

I accept no substitutes

5) He may be picky about underwear but not cuisine. He loves Big Macs. If we were going to McDonald's, what would you order? This is mean! I have been having tummy trouble and my doctor(s) prescribes a bland diet, no beef. But if I could, I would devour a Big Mac.

6) When it comes to healthier fare, Bieber has told fans he enjoys snacking on bananas and grapes. What do you reach for between meals? Crackers

7) Performing in Germany, Justin Bieber told a girl who approached the stage, "Ich liebe dich” ("I love you") and she fainted. Have you ever fainted? Nope

8) As a kid, Justin was teased for being one of the shortest in his class. What do you recall being teased about in school? I don't recall the what, but the who remains vivid. Janice P., you were a dreadful bitch when you were 13.

9) Random question: Will you be watching this weekend's Super Bowl? Nope