The Day After Tomorrow

I first heard this song sung by Inga Swearingen on the Prairie Home Companion (12/6/2008). The melancholy tune and the timely lyrics caught my attention. Of course, the references to Illinois also piqued my interest!

Joan Baez released a recording of the song in September 2008.



The song was written by Tom Waits. Now, I'm not one to criticize, but some singer-songwriters should stick to what they're good at. Which of the two do you think is Tom's strength?

Inaugaration Day - Jan. 20, 2009

Although the Chief Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court messed up the oath we have known since elementary school, we have a new president!

First & Deli - Fargo, ND

You will find First & Deli (520 1st Ave. N) in the heart of downtown Fargo. This order-at-the-counter deli serves a selection of sandwiches, salads, soups, daily entree specials, and desserts. Prices are reasonable for lunch (Monday-Saturday) and, the day we were there, many other people also decided it was a great place to eat and chat. I would characterize the food as "home cooking" with most menu items being pretty standard midwestern choices. For example, we had the hot daily entree choice of tator-tot hotdish! It was served on a styrofoam plate with a lettuce salad. It is definitely worth a visit. If nothing else, you are supporting one of the new businesses that is transforming downtown Fargo into a livable place and destination for visitors.

Company Abbreviations

Ever wonder what UPS or FTD stood for? Maybe you know! What about ALCOA, NABISCO, or 3M? Test your knowledge with this quiz. Can you think of other company names with abbreviations or acronyms?

The Zodiac - Neiman Marcus Department Stores

Knowing little else about Neiman Marcus beyond the urban legend of the cookie recipe, I ventured into The Zodiac (top floor of Michigan Avenue store). I arrived as the restaurant opened for lunch. The restaurant is very nice with white tablecloths and padded chairs. North facing windows reflect sunshine spilling over the lower park and firehouse in the adjacent block and the highrise marble facade of Macy's/Watertower Place a block beyond. The Neiman Marcus experience begins with the traditional hot chicken consommé, a popover, and strawberry butter. Very tasty!


For lunch I chose the Mandarin Orange Soufflé with NM chicken salad, toasted almonds, seasonal fruit, and house zucchini bread. Again, a very good choice (except the melons).

The portions are adequate and satisfying. The menu had many other attractive offerings as well. (I hope to return and try more!) The servers were attentive and atmosphere formal, but comfortable. When it came time to pay for my lunch, I was ready to charge the $20 fee to my credit card. Since this was my first ever purchase at Neiman Marcus, I didn't realize they do not accept Mastercard or Visa. Instead they only accept store cards, American Express, cash, or personal check. Perhaps a way to develop "personal relationships" with their customers. For a special occassion (or when someone else will take the check) head over to Neiman Marcus and try out their menu!