For those who may be unfamiliar, Dune is a science fiction novel by Frank Herbert. I’ve read all of the original books written by Frank Herbert (his son has written some, as well to continue the series, I think). I don’t know that I ever really got into the story, but I did manage to continue reading every book to the end of the series. It wasn’t an easy read for me.

I’m watching (and I use that term a little loosely today) the Dune movie with the music star Sting in it. It’s…bad. I’m sorry if you’ve watched it and liked it, but I really think it’s just poorly done. It reminds me of movies that are used for the Mystery Science Theater 3000 show.

Outside the window, in a tree next to the Real networks building, there are TONS of birds chirping. I think they’re the kind that are small and fly in what look like bird-clouds. They’re noisy!

Today was also the first day I’ve been in Seattle when it rained. My co-workers that have been in Seattle for some time told the two of us that are move-ins from elsewhere (our analyst is from Austin, TX), “Welcome to fall.” I quipped back, “And winter…and spring…from what I’ve been told.”

I finally turned off the movie. I feel like my brain can relax. Now I’m watching Knight Rider. One would think the special effects (i.e., the scenery as the guy’s driving in Kit down the road) would be a little better. I feel like tonight is “bad sci-fi night.” (Again, sorry if you watched the new Knight Rider and liked it.)

So – back to the Seattle weather and stuff. One point of frustration – and it’s not weather-related, though I’m sure I’ll be missing the sun big-time in a few days – house hunting. We’re looking for a house to rent, and part of the relocation package is a rental tour with a rental specialist. Well, not sure that three hours with a rental specialist will result in the house we want, we’ve been looking for houses on our own. I’m REALLY glad we did, because I’ve learned a few things.

First – we have to specify that we need at least one bedroom with enough room for a king size bed and a large dresser.

Second – it seems that having more than one car per family is a rarity around here. A two-car garage is rare, as is, it seems, two parking spaces in general. Maybe we’ll sell the XTerra – after all, neither of us really feel like driving a manual in Seattle.

Third – [okay, really? Michael Knight is driving over 100mph, Kit isn’t controlling the car, and he’s not looking at the road at all…and you’re going to tell me he’s on a very straight road that whole time, with nothing else on the road, when he just passed another car before deciding to have a heart-to-heart with Kit?].

Sorry — third – I have to also remember those 12 boxes of games.

Fourth – there’s that counter-top height dining table…

Fifth – we need to be sure we have updated electrical that will handle the computers, the TV, Xbox, Wii, etc. (Yes, when you’re looking at houses built in the 1920’s, they’re cute, but you have to start looking at power outlets!)

Now – last? We want something that will fit all of our stuff that in a decent neighborhood, that would be fairly close to work, that wouldn’t take my entire paycheck to afford.

But the search continues. I’m SURE something will fit our needs around here!!

Last TV commentary — I find it amusing Jerry Springer has gone from talk show host to emcee for America’s Got Talent…