Whatta a week. And I’ll confess that I’m just all kinds of excited about actually getting the chance to just relax. For the first time in a long time, I have no idea what I’ll be doing all weekend, except eventually flying home to LA, which is kind of fun. Speaking of fun, here’s a bunch of procrastination. Woo-hoo! 1. I’m am SOOOOO excited about the DOWN AND DERBY book event at Skylight Books (LA) on Monday at 7:30pm. Alex “Axles of Evil” Cohen and (huge friend of FaN) Jennifer “Kasey Bomber” Barbee will be signing and talking about their book. My only question is whether I should have it signed “To Ernessa” or “To Kid Vicious.” Decisions, decisions… [LATimes] 2. I think my big 2011 challenge will be to watch all of the films I haven’t seen yet on Christina Katz’s list of 115 movies about writers. I was shocked by how many movies about writers I hadn’t seen. I really thought I was vainer than that. Ah well. [Christina Katz] 3. If only I had $200,000 to spare. I would totally use it for a Virgin Galactic sub-orbital flight! Ah well, again. [i09] 4. Hey, did you know that pink cars almost never get stolen? [Gawker] 5. Okay, obviously the folks behind the new TRON: Legacy movie are trying to whip me into a mouth-foaming frenzy with their latest trailer. Why can’t it be December...

So I have about a thousand items on my To Do list, but after a cross them off, I get to enjoy my in-laws for the rest of the weekend before coming back to California for my reading at Vroman’s Pasadena. If you’re in the area, do come out. Meanwhile here’s a big ol’ chunk of procrastination to get you through the day. 1. I loved this advice about how to become a better writer from a literary agent. [Rants & Ramblings] 2. Want to win a free copy of 32 CANDLES? Today’s Book on the Train and Two Southern Girls are giving ’em away! 3. Ever wonder what the internet will be like in 2025? [Google Blogoscoped] 4. Do you suffer from nerd rage? Take this handy quiz and let us know your score. Apparently, I’m merely a grumpy fan (sad face). [i09] 5. Okay, somebody needs to just go’on ahead and make a whole Lego action movie based around this...

I had sooo much fun last night at the St. Louis signing, and now I have a weekend’s worth of family reunion activities to attend to. So alas, not much procrastination on my end. BUT I totally want you to take advantage of the below: 1. Looking for 10 minutes worth of procrastination? Suggest that your friends read 32 CANDLES this weekend on Facebook and Twitter. Or you can leave a review for 32 on Amazon. Friendly reminder that we’re trying to log 50 of them by August 1st. 2. I so need to employ these 15 tips for updating your blog during the one week I’m not on the road in July. Wait for it and meanwhile there’s a lot of good advice in here for my fellow bloggers. [Christina Katz] 3. I’m participating in the African Diaspora Readathon this Saturday, June 10. All you have to do is start reading a book from an author in the Africand Diaspora. I think you already know which one I’m going to suggest. [Carleen Brice] 4. Some might think that libraries moving into malls to attract more readers is a tad desperate, but I adore this idea and plan to visit the Bookmarks Library in Dallas … after I do my reading at Legacy Books on July 15 at 7pm. Yes, that tour plug just happened. Marketing ahoy! [Yahoo News] 5. So now it’s possible to get BACK TO THE FUTURE sneakers. Surely, a time-traveling DeLorean can’t be far behind. Where would you go? I myself am mighty curious about the year...

Alas, I won’t be seeing you again until Tuesday, so hopefully this big chunk of procrastination will make our time apart that much sweeter. 1. Los Angeles Magazine also thinks you should read 32 CANDLES this month. Just saying… [LAMag.com] 2. Wondering if I should be pleased or insulted that Ryan Dixon from “FIERCE ANTICIPATION” sent me a link to this item about Yahoo’s new web style guide. [Mashable] 3. Ooh, mama wants a new pair of (electronic) glasses! Seriously squirming in my seat. Yessss! [i09] 4. As a person who is weirdly submissive to her GPS, I found this item deeply disturbing. [architectblog.com] 5. Talking about procrastination, I’m just now getting around to reading this “Top 10 Motivation Boosters and Procrastination Killers” list that I sent myself in early June now. Man … I kind of really need that. [lifehacker] 6. Yes! A new Old Spice commercial. I officially declare this week FANTASTIC! I shall now go eat my birthday cake in the kitchen CH built me after he started using Old Spice shower...

You know what the best way to procrastinate is? That’s right, reading a book, yo. So do think about procrastinating with 32 CANDLES this week. Meanwhile here’s a big old hunk of PoT! to get you through your work day: 1. Basically we’re never going to see light sabers within our lifetime, b/c while they look cool, they’re just really, really impractical and badly designed. Bummer. [i09] 2. I’m going to see BLOOD RED LOST HEAD DEAD FALCON, this dramatic work by some of the most brilliant artists I know IRL tonight (Friday). What are you up to? [Highways Performance Space] 3. As someone who really does think that MFA programs should include marketing classes as part of their required course work, I declare these business courses for creative types brilliant. New York artist are so lucky. [NYT] 4. This list of 24 things going extinct in America makes me feel both nostalgic and wondrous of what’s to come. [VOO] 5. This GREEN HORNET trailer left me feeling a little meh. What do you...

What a lovely, lovely week this has been! Our Fierce and Nerdy bloggers more than delivered, and I’m thinking we’ll have to do this again next year? But what’s our first themed week without an afternoon cap of a huge ole chunk of (book-based) procrastination? Oh, and friendly reminder. We’re giving away two more shirts on Monday or Tuesday, so pre-order the book and let me know to get entered to win. Also, big congrats to Susan Howard from “The Next Family” our Friday T-shirt winner. 1. Sadly, one of my favorite blogs isn’t too hopeful about this new Black Aqualad character, but I’ll definitely give him a chance … as long as the YOUNG JUSTICE issue he’s in is available on iPad. [Topless Robot] 2. Betty will definitely be receiving this Large Hadron Collider pop-up book. [Galleycat] 3. I loved this article on why it’s so very hard to recommend books. Basically people tend not to be as upfront about what they’re reading, which it’s not high-quality. I can identify. I haven’t read one trashy romance this year, and that’s mostly because I’ve been tracking every book I read at Fierce and Nerdy. [The New Yorker] 4. I hadn’t even heard the rumor that Alan Moore was working on an opera with the Gorillaz. But when I read that it wasn’t true, I got really sad. [i09] 5. Isn’t it sad how Keira Knightly just refuses to star in movies based on critically acclaimed novels? — oh wait, what I meant is that Keira Knightley is in yet another movie based on a critically acclaimed novel — one I loved, in fact NEVER LET ME GO by Kazuo Ishiguro. Though I’m a little concerned, b/c the majority of the book takes place in...

Two of my nephews are coming to join us for about a month of R&R next week, so this will be our last uneventful weekend before COMPLETE MADNESS ensues. Why does it always feel that summer is way more hectic than the winter months. Either way, here’s your extra-large dose of PoT for the week. 1. If you want to find out more about the gourmet writing classes I’m always going on and on about read the interview that Halie Rosenberg did with me over at The Well-Fed Muse. [The Well Fed Muse] 2. This is EXACTLY how I feel about the fact that I’m still receiving phone books. Thank you for this, stopthemadness. [Angry Black Lady Chronicles] 3. Again, I don’t want to say that blogging for Fierce and Nerdy is lucky, but Clark Perry (formerly of “Nerd Date“) not only got married, he also had a kid, AND (this just  in) got a job on the writing staff for V! [clarkblog] 4. Loved this list of fifty life lessons. [Steven Barnes] 5. Though, I just decided not to live in an apartment again until we’re empty nesters, this kind of made me want to give it one more go. What a great use of space! [Architect...

So the hubby has a four-day weekend, and we’re planning to go … nowhere. Yes, nowhere! It’s going to be so glorious, I don’t even know what to do with myself. I imagine days of sitting around, watching stuff on the Apple TV, and just using this time oh-so-unwisely. I’m so excited. And hopefully this big old chunk of procrastination will set the mood for your weekend, too. Happy Memorial Day! 1. The guys behind MYTHBUSTERS have signed a mulitiyear contract for the show and agreed to develop several new shows with Discovery. I am officially a Discovery Channel widow. [i09] 2. As someone who just found her 32 CANDLES ARC for sell on eBay, I’m kind of in agreement that piracy is here to stay, so maybe don’t sweat it so hard. [J.A. Koranth] 3. Want to win a free book? Tell author Carleen Brice [Orange, Mint, and Honey] what you’re looking forward to reading this summer. Spoiler: one of the books she’s recommending as a summer read is 32 CANDLES. [Carleen Brice] 4. Apparently Night Owls are smarter than Early Birds. Burn! Though, becoming a mother has mutated me into an early bird. Should I be concerned? [Psychology Today] 5. I want an Iron Baby suit for Betty so bad, but I fear what she would do if I failed to make her bottle fast enough. [Topless...

Yes, the Force is strong within this PoT! 1. Ugh! I’m Team Garmin for life, but the fact that I could get C-3PO giving me directions if I bought a Tom-Tom seriously tests my fidelity. [i09] 2. The only thing better than (the original) Star Wars, are its fans. Slow-clap into a standing ovation for this one, guy! [Topless Robot] 3. I love the private lives of Storm Troopers. [Wild Ammo] 4. Okay, I like Star Wars as much as the next girl, but I can pretty much guarantee that the guy who buys this wampa rug for his apartment will see no action. [Think Geek] 5. I was sent this Star Wars baby stroller not once, not twice, not thrice, but four times. And though we’ve decided to institute a “no presents” policy for Betty’s first birthday party, b/c I have less than no time to send out thank-yous), I might make the time to write a thank you if we received this stroller. [LikeCool] 6. Super-fast Star Wars told with Legos. Basically The Best Thing Ever. [Topless...

Hey Guys, I’m going to be reading an excerpt from 32 CANDLES at Chi Chi’s World Parlor this upcoming Tuesday, April 13th at 8pm at The Atwater Playhouse, 3191 Casitas Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90039 for a themed night of storytelling. The Atwater Playhouse 3191 Casitas Ave. Los Angeles, CA 9003 The theme for the night is “Dirty,” and being on the editorial board, I can already tell you that the other stories (including one from friend of FaN, Laurenne Salas from “humans are funny“) will be pretty awesome. So before you procrastinate on the below, reserve your spot by emailing and rsvp to chichiswordparlor@mac.com 1. Some advice that all writers should read before making the decision to self-publish. [Pimp My Novel] 2. I am so jealous that Alec Baldwin bought his own bookmobile! If I got one, I would buy an AC unit and convert it into the coolest office ever. That’s all. [Jezebel] 3. Wondering if you have undiagnosed ADHD? Take this handy dandy Wall Street Journal test. Though the biggest shock of my week is learning that I probably don’t actually have ADHD — it looks like I’m just obnoxious and impatient. So be careful if you’ve been blaming undiagnosed ADHD for all of your bad personality traits like I have. You might not want to know the truth. [WSJ] 4. Is it sad that while reading this article about the increase in people who surf the net while watching TV, all I could think was “Wait, there are people who just watch TV without a laptop? How do even manage to do that?” I’d blame it on my undiagnosed ADHD but see #3. [NYT] 5. It looks like the new A-Team movie will have wooden acting, a by-the-numbers plot, a...

I hate to say this, but Easter isn’t my favorite holiday. The Resurrection gets a big ole thumbs up — especially for theatrics. But unlike Zac, I’m not a big fan of Easter candy. In fact, the only candy I hate more than Cadburry Eggs are those awful, awful Peeps, which taste exactly like a pile of squishy chemicals in my mouth. Anyway, this is all to explain why your weekly dose of procrastination isn’t themed around Easter. 1. The only David Mamet play I have ever liked is Glengarry Glenross. I also seriously despised The Unit. But this writing advice re that now-defunct TV show is very, very good. [The Producer’s Perspective] 2. Yay! We’re getting closer and closer to self-propelled (aka robotic) cars. Can’t wait to be able to read and commute at the same time! [Wired.com] 3. Ida B. Wells, Gloria Steinem and Sojourner Truth just got pushed to the em-effin curve. This chyck is my new hero. [Jezebel] 4. Having read books like Sounder, Old Yellow, Call of the Wild, and not-very-assorted other texts from a mostly-male canon in high school, I already thought we were catering to boys as far as literature in schools went. I don’t think we need to increase the amount of testosterone in our children’s reading classes in response to boys lagging behind in reading skills. I still to this day cannot read any book with a dog as one of the main characters. [NYT] 5. I’m really, really, really committed to not referencing Star Wars next week (like I’ve been promising for three weeks now). So let me just get this video and these Stormtrooper pics out of the way. Click on the above pic to see more Stormtroopers at work and at play. [LikeCool]...

I was actually supposed to go to the East Coast this weekend, but never got my act together, so now I’m staying in town and really looking forward to a girls night out and a baby shower with friends. I hope you guys have fun weekend plans, too, but before you get to them, don’t forget to take your weekly dose of big procrastination. 1. Wondering if you’ve got what it takes to successfully e-publish your work? This Joe Konrath article will definitely help you decide. [A Newbie’s Guide to Publishing] 2. I don’t talk politics on Facebook, but just in case you do, take a few notes on respectfully discussing the Health Care Reform debate from Mild-Mannered White Guy. Somewhat ironically his thoughts can be found at [The Angry Black Lady Chronicles] 3. Yes, it’s against the best interest of Fierce and Nerdy for me to post this article about “How To Ignore Interruptions And Get Work Done,” but we love you too much not to. [ChristinaKatz.com] 4.  Virgin One is getting closer and closer to commercial space travel. It would be so cool if CH and I could take a rocket trip to celebrate his eventual retirement. Should probably start saving up for that vacation now… [Gawker] 5. This trailer may be a parody, but I would definitely be up for watching a Weird Al biopic. Just sayin. [Topless Robot] “Weird: The Al Yankovic Story” from Aaron...

I so don’t have time to procrastinate AND hit my deadline for this rough draft of my novel. But I’m hoping you have some time to kill. If so, feel free to avail yourself of all this wonderful procrastination… 1. If you’re one of the many writers I know who like to procrastinate with enjoy American Idol, you will appreciate “25 Things Writers Can Learn By Watching American Idol” by writing guru, Christina Katz. [ChristinaKatz.com] 2. Kindles have been brought into a few Ghanian classrooms. Who else thinks e-readers will replace textbooks in the classroom by 2020? I would have happily paid $200 dollars at the beginning of college and grad school and downloaded all of my class books at a reasonable price. [Wired.com] 3. I hit a bit of failure panic the other week and this list of life lessons from Albert Einstein totally helped me through it — along with a steady stream of reassurance from my husband and my writing exchange partner. My favorite: “Preserverance is Priceless.” [DumbLittleMan.com] 4. Have trouble keeping your right hand iPhone battery charged all day like me? Try these handy tricks! [NYT] 5. I still haven’t read EAT PRAY LOVE, but I do like the trailer. Like the message that it’s never to late to reset and find yourself. And say what you want about naval gazers, but I’ve noticed that legitimately happy people often have some naval gazing in common. Also like that JR’s best friend is a black woman in an IR. It makes me want to write a travel memoir myself....

My SIL and nephews are here visiting, so my iron-like grip on my eating and writing habits will probably have to be relaxed for the next week. My goal is to get FaN up and find creative ways to exercise, so that if I don’t lose weight, then I don’t gain any either. We’ll see. As I write this, the smell of German Chocolate Cake is wafting through the vents and telling me that I’m not strong enough to resist it sure-to-be utter deliciousness … where was I? Oh yes, here’s your big old chunk of procrastination for the week: 1. Funnily, I was just thinking about how Google Maps should include info for bikers the other day while trying to figure how to get to Starbucks, w/o getting run over. So Google, my bike and myself thank you! [LikeCool] 2. Just in case Betty isn’t fated to be nerdy enough, I’m seriously considering getting this geeky A-Z poster for her room. But how to explain the naked pin-up drawing of Joss Whedon for “J” if she’s not allowed to watch Buffy and Angel till she’s older? Hmm, working on it. [NeilCameron.com] 3. Yeah, this is pretty much the most annoying dating advice ever. [Jezebel] 4. No surprise here, way more people are expected mark multiple races on the the census in 2010 than in 2000. I seriously can’t wait to see these results. But has anyone actually gotten their census yet? We still haven’t received ours… [Honeysmoke via USA Today] 5. Today’s challenge. Try to hang on to your bad mood after watching this video. Let me know if you can do it in the comments. Thanks to Gudrun for the finger...

Oh guys, it seems like I blink these days and I’m already saying goodbye to you for the week! First of all, we had a particularly high numbers week, so thank you, thank you, thank you again for coming back every day and making this blog totally worth it. Second of all, here’s hoping that this weekend is less snowy, rainy, and earthquakey than last one. Cheers! 1. Just in case you (like me) are occasionally in need of homespun constipation cures*. [TMI — haha, just kidding — it’s from Jezebel] 2. Are you planning Oscar snacks? I think I might break out the French Onion Dip at the very least. Anywho, before you leave the office, here are some tips on winning your Oscar pool. [Gawker] 3. I meant to post awhile ago the NYT’s Modern Love Editor’s insights on … well.. love. Anyway, as one might imagine, he’s got a lot to say on the subject. [NYT] 4. I can’t bear the taste of Peeps. But the Washington Post’s “Peep Show III” is pretty effin fantastic. [WP via My You Really Have Put on Weight] 5. Okay, I’m posting the book trailer for Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter. So please no more emails and FB messages about how I should post this — though I agree, it is pretty awesome. [Topless Robot] *Yes, I made the first bit of procrastination brown on purpose, b/c deep down inside, I’m still...

Oh dearest, I know February is a short month, but I’m always surprised by how fast it whizzes by. Alas, this will be your last bit of procrastination for the current month, and when I see you again it’ll be March! Til then, do procrastinate on this… 1. Okay, I want a car with doors that disappears (read: slide down) so bad, I could spit. Thanks to Brian Viehland for the finger point. [Disappearing-car-door.com] 2. This is soooo NSFW in a really, really geeky way. [LikeCool] 3. Got kids and thinking on going on vacation without them? Here are some tips! [The Next Family] 4. Could we eliminate the gender wage gap by making corporate salaries completely transparent? I think that’s not a bad idea. [Jezebel] 5. How jealous am I that England gets Dr. Who back in March? Also, I think I’m going to like the new doctor, but the new companion seems kind of blah after outside-the-box picks like Rose, Martha, and Donna. [Topless...

So has another week has come to a grinding halt, b/c your stuck in the office counting down the slow-ticking minutes until you can get out of there. We’re here to help with an extra-big serving of good ole procrastination: 1. Did you see this story on Victorian personal ads? Fascinating! [NYT] 2. Dudes, I totally knew it. You CAN be bored to death! [Gawker] 3. Because I know you guys love Big Bang Theory as much as I do, here’s an invitation to go deeper down the rabbit-hole that is BBT. Summed up, BBT started off as a show that insulted our intelligence and now it celebrates it. [Wired] 4. Apparently Brit IT professionals are a little skeptical about how inspirational Computer Engineer Barbie is going to be. Also, they think her “look” isway too impractical to be an IT professional. Thanks for the link, Gudrun from “Secret Life of an Expat!” [BBC News] 5. Wall Street 2: Yay or Nay? Looks kind of...

Hey Darlings, whether you’re up or down with love this weekend, we’ve got stuff for you to procrastinate on. You know why? That’s right — because we love you! 1. Did you read that “New Math” NYT article last weekend about how women on a certain college campus have gotten all desperate and ridiculous because they now outnumber college men and can’t find boyfriends — well a few of the women featured in that article are now saying “MISQUOTE!” [Gawker] 2. Some great advice for singles from happily married author, Steve Barnes. And make sure to click through to the Huffington Post article he refers to. [Dar Kush] 3. A message to those who would oppose same sex marriage. Um, you know “God is Love” right? [NYT] 4. A Valentine Gift to nerds near and far. Neil Gaiman is writing an episode of Dr. Who!!!!! [Topless Robot] 5. This video makes me want to give our dog, Tulip a hug, even though she doesn’t do any clever tricks. Happy Valentine’s Day, Girl!...

I don’t quite understand how it’s Friday already. It seems like I was JUST telling you that I was going to Pismo for the weekend. But that’s what the calendar says, so I’m just going to have to trust that today is the day that I administer your extra-extra dose of PoT! Correct me if I’m wrong… 1. If you get annoyed when people ask you to take your shoes off in their home (like I do), then you’ll totally appreciate this. [Gawker] 2. Apparently my beloved electric bicycle is causing all sorts of problems in China, but Stateside, other users seem to be just as in love with them as I am. [NYT] 3. Oh, these 20 Nerd Commandments are too awesome. Though, I would like to point out re #4 that I tried to convince CH that we should name our next child “Gandalf” if it’s a boy, he was all like, “No!” And wouldn’t even negotiate with “Albus.” So mayhap, I am the holier one. [Topless Robot] 4. Apparently, other teams are trying to copy the “Terrible Towel.” I don’t even have the words to express how utterly worng that is. [Deep Into Sports] 5. Shout out to Friend of FaN, Mike DiMartino. Seriously, The Last Airbender live-action movie trailer couldn’t look cooler. Check it out...

Well, I’m once again scrambling to get a ton of stuff done as we’re going out of town to visit my ailing GIL, but I hope the rest of you will take proper advantage of this bit of procrastination. 1. All wannabe fag hags, read this yesterday. Your future gay guy best friend will thank you for it.  [Gawker] 2. I’ve chronicled my failed attempts at meditation and have become a little sour grapes about it. But this list of meditation apps suggestions kind of made me want to give relaxing zee ole mind another chance. [Tananarive Due] 3. Ugh, now free checking is in peril??? I dare my bank to try charging me for this service. I don’t hate money, but I am beginning to hate the folks that handle it. [NYT] 4. Ooh, if you love androids and you love Gene Roddenberry, this one’s for you. [The Wrap] 5. I think that I’m actually going to see Our Family Wedding in the theaters. Old concept with black and Latino twist. I’m also kind of loving the thought of Forest Whitaker in a comedy. And IRL friends, know why my husband and I are lifelong fans of Carlos...

So I’ve been having a pretty bad week. This rain is ridiculous and I am officially not a fan. But hopefully this chunk of procrastination will help alleviate the rainy day blues. 1. Ugh! A movie based on What to Expect When You’re Expecting? If it’s anything like the book, it’s going to be really boring and will put me to sleep after 10 minutes. [The Wrap] 2. Another totally bad idea: An American version of Torchwood. Though if this does happen, they totally need to hire Clark Perry for the writing table. [Topless Robot] 3. Hey, jobless folks, don’t hate on immigrants. Hate on robots! [humans are funny] 4. I really wish I was cool enough to pull off these shoes. [Jezebel] 5. Okay, I’ll admit I haven’t actually watched this video yet, but the premise of Lost fans becoming more annoying than ever in the final season seemed funny. Let me know if it’s...

You know how every Friday I’ve been saying that I’ve absolutely no time to actually procrastinate on this! Well, not today. Today, I will not only be procrastinating, but then I’m going to allow myself to read for a whole uninterrupted hour, b/c it’s my birthday weekend — what, that’s the kind of stuff I know myself digs! 1. My first thought, after only gettiing through the first few paragraphs into this article about “modern cavemen” was “Douchebags with too much time on their hands.” Then I stopped reading. Let me know how far you get. [NYT] 2. Oh man! No new Star Trek installment until June 29, 2012. I’ll (hopefully) have another kid before they get around to giving me my nanu! Woe is me! [Gawker] 3. Vote for computer engineer Barbie. Yes, seriously! [Topless Robot] 4. Sorry, I’m so late to referring you to Jezebel’s list of the Worst BFs of the Decade. So spot-on. [Jezebel] 5. Presented without comment, the trailer for the new Karate...

Well, I’m seriously behind on just about everything, so I’ve no time to procrastinate this week, but this too shall pass, and I look forward to getting some good procrastination in after I turn in my very last pass of 32 CANDLES before it gets bound into galleys. Til then, do procrastinate on this for me. 1. I know I’ve been talking about adult acne a lot this week, but one more item. Apparently those new light-and-heat blemish gadgets don’t really work. So don’t waste your money. [NYT] 2. I love my MIL for many reasons, just one of which being that she suggested that we all watch all the Dr. Who we missed in Hawaii this Saturday then take her out for Mexican Food for her birthday. But just in case you’ve actually already watched it, here’s a fitting tribute. [Topless Robot] 3. Okay, the Big Lebowski rewritten as Shakespeare is strangely appropo. [BoingBoing] 4. Looking for Photoshop tips? Try this blog. [The Design O’Blog] 5. Yeah, boy!!! Boondocks is slated to come back in early 2010. Hopefully it won’t be as disappointing as the current season of Venture Brothers — though points to those guys for not being on total CPT. Yeah, I said it. I’m talkin’ to YOU, Aaron McGruder. Anyway, here’s the...

Okay, here’s our last PoT Friday edition for the year. You know, I remember way back when (2008), when we only did Procrastinate on This! on Fridays, but then I found out in a good way that you guys like to procrastinate every weekday — especially if you’re at work. Nice! Anywho, we’ll still be running PoT!s over the next few weeks, just not these big ole Friday editions, b/c they require research. So we’ll procrastinate big again come 2010. 1. Flying over the holidays? Read these practical tips first. There were even a few that were new to me and I thought I was an old hand. [New York Times] 2. Of all the suggestions in Thundersquee’s Purposefully Crappy Gift Guide, I think I liked the check for $15 the best. I might actually give that to someone the next time I want to passive-agressively end our friendship. [Thundersquee] 3. Remember those high fructose corn syrup ads that claimed HFCS wasn’t bad for you? Turns out that was like a total lie. [My, You Really Have Put On Weight via grist] 4. Even more proof that you really shouldn’t aspire to look like those women on the magazine covers. [Jezebel] 5. I have a feeling this is going to divide a lot of our readers. On one hand, the original, lily-white British version of Death at a Funeral was pretty darn funny and m/b didn’t need an American remake. On the other hand, a mostly black cast in a comedy that I already know is written brilliantly with a surprising directing turn by Neil Effing Labute AND Peter Dinklage in the same role as the original! Um… Well, I’ll definitely be there for the curiosity factor...

I’m attending a writing class w/ the recently retired LA Derby Doll, Kelly Kaboom Lett, I’m meeting up with a friend from college, attending a Christmas party, AND hitting up Kalimba Bennett’s play, Everything But. I’m assuming you all have full weekends, too, so let’s procrastinate on this while we still can: 1. These Facebook Snafus are High-larious, but m/b not so much if it’s ever happened to you. [Something to Say via The Huffington Post] 2. That cute kid that Family Ties used to jump the shark? Totally not cute anymore. [Thundersquee] 3. Talking about starving for your art. Apparently Michael Kenneth Williams was “intermittently homeless” before he got his big break, playing Omar Little on The Wire. [Jezebel] 4. For those of you still watching Heroes, here’s a handy-dandy equation for when to give up on a TV Show. [Gawker] 5. Ohmigod! Ohmigod! The Princess and the Frog is FINALLY here. Check out the trailer below, and if you see it, let us know what you thought in the...

SO much to do this weekend. I’ve got three parties to go to, plus I’m going to have to fit in a Christmas photo shoot, so that we can send out cards this year. Oh, and I have to get these copyedits done and out the door for a FedEx overnight by Saturday, so no procrastination for me today. I’m just going to live vicariously through you guys as you Procrastinate on This! 1. Love indie covers? Check out Paste Magazine’s 30 Best Cover Songs of the Decade. [Paste Magazine] 2. Having sprained my back earlier in the week and set up shop in my actual home office as opposed to my bed, I was grateful to find this 10 Ergonomic Upgrades For Your Workspace article. [GeeksPodcast via LifeHacker] 3. Apparently, Stephen King is planning a sequel to The Shining, which will be set 40 years in the future, and involve the main character’s son. Guaranteed the rum will run red. [Gawker] 4. Right now, I’m reading a graphic memoir out loud to Betty, so this geek dad who thinks everyone should read comics to their kids is pretty much preaching to the choir when it comes to me. [Wired.com] 5. This baby mop idea is brilliant, and I’m just waiting for Betty to learn how to crawl, so that we can try it out on the hardwood floors. Baby Mop from Chris Milk on...

Hey Guys, I won’t be talking to you in this space next week, since we’re dark from Thanksgiving until the Monday after. But maybe I’ll get my act together and at least leave you with some Thanksgiving Procrastination. Maybe… Anywho, savor procrastinating on this just in case. 1. This list of 20 Books We Can’t Wait To Read in 2010 has me all excited to continue being a nerd next year. [i09] 2. Seriously, don’t ever ever get divorced. It’s so frickin’ complicated and expensive. [NYT] 3. A blog guide to All-You-Can-Eat Buffets. Brilliant! [Eating the Road] 4. Apparently crime is down b/c the jobless are always at home now, making it harder to break in. Um …yay? [Gawker] 5. Alright, who’s seen New Moon already? And if so, was it any good? Please let us know in the comments, just in case some of us are on the fence. Though truth be told, this seems like a rather polarizing film. People seem to either really want to see it or really don’t want to see it. Either way, here’s the...

Betty’s teething and woke up not once, not twice, but three times last night. Plus I’ve got a big project due today, so if by some miracle I find myself with some free time, the head is definitely hitting the ole pillow. Hard. But the rest of you should definitely procrastinate on this: 1. If you’re actually scared about the world coming to an end in 2012, you should definitely read this, so that you can proceed to feel like an idiot and then hopefully NOT call up NASA with your concerns as apparently a lot of people have been doing. It’s going to be a long two years… [Thundersquee] 2. Check out our own Missy Kulik in this interview she did for the “Indie Fixx.” My favorite question summarized: how do you deal when people hate on Tofu Baby? Hahaha, people are mean, but this interview is awesome, so read it! [Indie Fixx] 3. Mom’s if you’re all about keeping your walking baby entertained AND clean floors, try this. [Bright Beating Hearts] 4. Ooh, I’d totally take this class! [New York Post] 5. Okay, I love Jake Gyllenhal, but I think maybe he should be banned from big budget movies. First The Day After Tomorrow, and I honestly don’t know how Prince of Persia could look any worse. However, this teen non-super-powered hero movie, Kick-Ass, looks … well,...

Happy Almost Halloween! I know that we did a Halloween edition last week, but it is HALLOWEEN, so we’re doing it one mo time. Have fun! 1. The perfect Halloween gift for your favorite crafty pre-teen: A Robert Pattison cross-stitch pattern. Dreamy. [Gawker] 2. I love the NYT’s Modern Love column, but I think I would find a movie version pretty scary as far as love goes. [Jezebel] 3. Need a snarky last-minute costume? [Thundersquee] 4. According to number-crunching Canadian scientists (who apparently have a lot more time on their hands than American scientists), we would never survive a zombie apocalypse. That’s okay, b/c I’ve always figured I wouldn’t want to survive if all my loved ones were turned into zombies. I’m a people person. [GeeksPodcast] 5. I still  can’t decide if i actually want to see Cirque Du Freak: The Vampire’s Assistant. But I love John C. Reilly, and it would probably be a great Halloween date night. Anyway, check out the trailer below and weigh...

Just a little FaN note to let you know that I’ll be reporting in from St. Louis next week, but til then, procrastinate on this special Halloween themed edition of PoT. 1. Forget the pumpkins. How about carving TURNIPS this year?[Something to Say] 2. This website of geeky tattoos is a my new fave and a credit to the entire human race. Also, some good ideas if you’re thinking of getting a fake one for Halloween. [GeekyTattoos.com] 3. Oh, man I wish we were in LA for Halloween, b/c this Cylon Pumpkin would definitely be sitting on our front porch. Maybe next year. But click on the link to make your own. [Gizmondo] 4. Just in case you, like my sister, get your icky thrills from stories about really intenses hoarders. [Gawker] 5. CH and I have been arguing back and forth about whether the below vid is cute or creepy. I vote insanely creepy. But please weigh in with your thoughts in the...

Hey guys, I’m stuck at home w/o my car, which is getting outfitted by the hubby for this weekend’s 32 CANDLES book trailer shoot, so I’m doing some online boots shopping for next week’s New York trip. Sweet! Oh, and if you have any suggestions for flying on a plane with a baby, please send them my way. Meanwhile, feel free to move about the cabin as you procrastinate on this. 1. Oh, I love Thundersquee even more than I already did for posting their list of the 50 best videos ever. I would have cut Chris Isaak’s “Wicked Game” and replaced it with Michael Jackson’s “Bad,” but other than that this list is pretty much perfect. [Thundersquee] 2. First they gave Strawberry Shortcake and Dora, The Explorer (unneeded) makeovers and now they done gone and hijacked Rainbow Brite. When will stop? WHEN WILL IT STOP??? [Jezebel] 3. Check out these awesome Roller Derby bout posters, quite a few of which are by Friend of FaN, Tara Armov. [Fracture Magazine] 4. Now here’s an iPhone app that I (and many of my fellow Broadway lovers) can get behind. [Producer’s Perspective] 5. Women in Trouble. Hmm, a female-driven ensemble piece. Looks interesting. But only one woman of color in the trailer — in the 13yo role. No men of color. And it was written by a dude  — hence the pregnant porn star and call girls, I’m sure. Sigh. We’ve got to do...

I almost wish I still had an FT, b/c it actually seems like I’m much busier these days being a write-at-home mother. Betty’s baptism is on Sunday, also we have the biggest Halloween party of the season to attend on Saturday (yes, on Oct. 11. LA takes Halloween extremely seriously. It really is like a special season out here. And back when I was single I used to call October the beginning of the LA’s party season, which doesn’t end until January 1st). Also, Betty’s godparents and godbrother are coming into town tonight for bother the party and the baptism. I don’t have anything to wear to the baptism, my eyebrows are shaggy. my toenails in disrepair, and I need to somehow find the time to do my 20 minutes of exercise and get my car washed, since the interior is still pretty wrecked from when we took a profusely bleeding Tulip to the doggie emergency room and found out that she had some skin tumors that would need to be removed with surgery ASAP (she’s fine now, don’t worry). So yeah, wish me luck and then definitely, definitely procrastinate on this. 1. Seriously, if your password is 123456, change it now. And furthermore, what’s wrong with you? [Valleywag] 2. Basically, the writers behind Dr. Who are as awesome as we think they are. Maybe even more so. [clarkblog] 3. If you live in LA and are still looking for a Halloween costume for our special Halloween Season, you might want to check out the LA Opera’s Costume Sale on Saturday w/ many costumes under $10! [LA Opera] 4. I was never one for the Barbie dolls, but just in case Betty is, I’m glad that they’re now releasing a full color-spectrum line of...

Friendly Reminder, Michael Kass from “Single White Nerd” is on Dr. Phil’s “Race to the Altar” episode today. Check your local listings, but if you live in L.A., it’s on at 4pm on Channel 2. But if you need even more procrastination, we’ve got your back. 1. Wow, they’re making Serena Williams the new face of PMS, which I maintain is the time of the month when women see everything clearly and therefore get a little about it. [Defamer] 2. Okay, I would actually cash in my cool points and buy a minivan, if they looked like this concept Mercedes. [LikeCool] 3. Day Job: Secretary. Side Job: King. How awesome is that? [Home of the Urban Chameleon] 4. Apparently rat tails are back in style. How do we feel about that? [Gawker] 5. So this George Clooney movie, Up in the Air, has been getting lots of buzz and I think I’m definitely going to rent as soon as it hits Apple TV. What do you...

Our wild September is coming to a lovely end w/ a baby shower, which will take place in our backyard tomorrow. Basically our biggest responsibility is getting the house clean and smelling wonderful — which is a little difficult with our smelly (though completely lovable) dog, Tulip. So we have a mobile groomer coming by and plans to Febreeze down her doggie and crate beds, and hopefully this will do the trick. However, I’ve lost my sense of smell to seasonal allergies, so we’ll see. Oh yeah, I’m also working double time on my 32 CANDLES rewrite, which is due the first of October. So seriously, no sleep til Brooklyn. But please help me live vicariously by procrastinating on this: 1. Oh yay! Daft Punk is adding mixes to the upcoming DJ Hero game. This might be the first game that I actually request CH buy since Wii Fit. [GeekPodcast.com] 2. Wow, just the thought of giving birth to a 19lb baby makes me cross my legs. [Yahoo News] 3. Yo, FaN Readers, I’m really happy for you and I’mma Let You Finish, but this Kanye West tumbler is the best site of all time. [I’mma Let You Finish] 4. Hey Fierce Mommies, looking for yummy-but-nutritious recipes for the lil ones? Thanks to Kelli from “Fierce in Seattle” for introducing us. [Weelicious.com] 5. Can I just tell you that I ADORE Hugh Grant, and I don’t care how cheesy this makes me sound. I am just so happy that he’s back from his semi-retirement and I will definitely be seeing Did Your Hear About the Morgans … when it comes out on DVD. Sigh. If the below is choppy, click on the link to see it on YouTube....

So, right now I’m still working on getting ready for the Technical Emmy’s. As you read this, I’m either getting my nails and eyebrows done at a fancy-schmancy salon or I’m getting my hair did at the Mahogany Hair Revolution — yes, that’s really the name of the salon. This is just a note to say that I’ve gotten your many, many notes (jeez!) about posting pics of me all cleaned up, since most of you haven’t seen that version of me since the wedding. Don’t worry, I’ll post them. And to answer your online and IRL follow-up question, no, this won’t be like all the times that I said I was going to post something and then … didn’t. I’m a changed woman — plus, my editor asked for pics for the publicity department, so I kind of have to. But seriously, I’m jealous that some of you might even have time to procrastinate today. I miss my old friend, P, and hope to reunite with her next week. Til then, please enjoy these items as I cannot. 1. Ugh! I once again can’t remember which Facebook friend hepped me a great site or vid. I have got to come up with a better credit system. But whoever pointed me toward “People of Walmart,” thank you so much, b/c this site is awesome. [People of Walmart] 2. Should Students be allowed to design their own reading list? I kind of think yes. [Jezebel] 3. Graphic artists will definitely appreciate this infomercial parody: [Something to Say] 4. Really? A pole-dancing doll? Are you kidding me? I mean c’mon… [Home of the Urban Chameleon] 5. The below video makes me so happy for Betty, though I wished they had shown more examples of multi-racial people...

So I’ve got to go on a sure-to-be-fun adventure of post-pregnancy swimsuit shopping in preparation for our trip to Catalina with my sister. Also hitting the store for a couple of beach reads (don’t like to take my Kindle in the sand) and I might finally accept that my feet are not going to shrink back down to their pre-pregnancy size and buy some (short heels) that actually fit. How about you? Have any fun Labor Day plans? Sound off in the comments — oh, and enjoy all of this Friday Procrastination when the boss’s not looking. [Friendly Programming Note: FaN will be off on Monday. See you next Tuesday!] 1. What do James Cameron’s Avatar, Stephen Soderbergh’s Cleopatra, Paul W.S. Anderson’s The Three Muskateers, and Jon Favreau’s Iron Man 2 have in common? They’re all going to be in 3D. No, I’m not kidding. [Defamer] 2. Is it time to embrace American Royalty (read: gross and self-righteous nepotism)? Thanks to Facebook Friend, Leah W. for the heads up. [Salon] 3. Hollywood still a desert of new ideas. Warner Bros. is turning Soul Train into a movie. [Home of the Urban Chameleon] 4. Don’t we all want to learn to make poached chicken and couscous in a coffee maker MacGyver-style? As a matter of fact, my husband did send me this link. How did you know? [Gizmodo] 5. Have you ever woken up to find a white owl outside your window? If so, you probably want to watch the...

My father and stepmother are in town to meet Betty, so again no time for procrastination on my part, but do feel free to avail yourself of these gems in my absence: 1. This makes me happy that I just went with “Betty” for my child. [Home of the Urban Chameleon] 2. People try to call me a grinch every time I suggest that I’m not going to let Betty believe in Santa Claus or the Tooth Fairy. But I think this story kind of proves my point. Tooth Fairyin’ is hard work! [The Rest of Yesterday] 3. Now here’s a reimagine I can get behind: Tim Burton and Johnny Depp teaming up for a Dark Shadows three-parter. Nice! [Jezebel via Daily Express] 4. Yes, why can’t they come up with a new angle for HIV/AIDs prevention ads other than fear of multiple partners? [copyranter] 5. To tell you the truth, I wasn’t all that interested in this new ABC drama Flash Forward b/c I didn’t want to commit to another Lost-like saga. But then I heard that Gabrielle Union (one of my favorite actresses) has now been cast to play the fiance of John Cho’s character. Now that’s an interracial storyline I haven’t seen before. I’ll definitely be watching. Trailer and series explanation below. P.S. — If they kill off the super-cute older interracial couple on Lost this season, that show will be dead to me … after I watch the series finale — hey, I like to be political but after all this time, I gotta found out what...

Guess who got her book edits back today? ‘Twould be me, so I definitely won’t be procrastinating … much. But the rest of you should take some mental downtime w/ these handy items: 1. When Zombies Attack!: Mathematical Modelling of an Outbreak of Zombie Infection — no seriously, that’s the title of this one group’s math thesis. Check it out. [Topless Robot] 2. A 3D iPhone app of Paris! Ooh-la-la, what weel they think of next? [YouTube] 3. The squirrelizer is awesome and should be utilized by everyone. [Gawker] 4. Wow. Just in case you had doubts that Octomom had a) mental issues and/or b) a grim life, check out Jezebel’s rundown of a newish 2-hour doc of unseen footage. Also did you know that she’s trademarked the word “Octomom?” [Jezebel] 5. Anyone who loves The Venture Bros — and really “anyone” should be “everyone” — will be as ecstatic as I was to see this Season 4 trailer. New eps start airing in November 2009. Can’t wait! Can’t...

I’m still in Santa Fe, enjoying the desert and the rain and the opera. But while I’m away, please enjoy these friendly bits of procrastination: 1. If you, like me, have just started an exercise program, then don’t read this. However, if you need an excuse to not exercise, then this is a total must-read. [Jezebel] 2. Just in case you, unlike me, haven’t been sent this under-30 meme about 30 times already. [Something to Say] 3. A Legos movie is in the works. Really Warner Brothers? Really? [Thundersquee] 4. I’m so jealous of these two people, I could spit. [NYT] 5. This movie, I Sell the Dead, looks like a ton of fun. Also Ron Perlman’s in it. Have I mentioned that I’ve had a huge crush on Ron Perlman since like Beauty and the Beast? No, I’m not kidding. Today’s Mood Picture Credit: Eric...