Saturday, September 29, 2007

From the Editor in Chief, U.S.




Fans,

Two words on the week-long hiatus: My. Bad.

After my big birthday weekend, which by the way was much fun and much too short, I was whisked away to the magical southern metropolis of Charlotte, N.C., for a less-than-thrilling week at the NAB Radio Show, the nadir of which was a toss-up between a toothpaste-less first morning, a dinner-less and sleepless Wednesday night and the story I was sent down there to write for the convention newspaper being cut. From the front page, no less. And then to come home to a Chris-less house, it was just more than this old gal could take. I'm sure you all agree that with Chris gone (or in the reader's case, Chris Weekly) there isn't much to do but wash back a handful of Benadryl with some Grey Goose and just wait it out. I'm kidding, of course!

But alas, the clouds have parted, for Chris, who at this point has been separated from me for 4 days, 18 hours, 46 minutes and 23.2 seconds thanks to society's mandate that he work for a living, comes back to us this evening around 9. Rejoice! Join me in exultation! Here comes the sun, indeed.

Having said that, I'd like to take this opportunity to thank our legions of readers for sticking with us through such a difficult period. Our Broadway show went unexpectedly dark for a week. But you, the ticketholders, remained steadfast in your devotion, waiting anxiously yet patiently for the lights to come up again. And to continue with my theatre metaphor, the fact that you've been on the edge of your seat for our next post is a testament to the necessity of this publication. We're really doing something special here at Chris Weekly. [cue the violins]

So then, we're back. And what can you expect in this week's issue? Well, for starters, content! Ha! On the real, we hope to bring you the highly anticipated play-by-play of Chris's Continued Legal Education event in [our honeymoon city of] Vancouver; and, more importantly, the passing of another month means it's time to select October's Friend of Chris! Though I'm certainly not one to rush along my favorite season, autumn, enlisting the CW readership to stand up and be counted in voting for the next recipient of [arguably] its most distinguished award makes it worthwhile.

For those who are new to the CW community, the Friend-of-Chris honor is not something we take lightly around here. Sure, we'd all love some special recognition for our dedication to Chris, not to mention the magnanimous patience required to be an active part of his life. But we're sure you understand that there can be only one monthly winner. Nominees are asked upon learning of their candidacy to write a 150-word paragraph explaining why they should be selected. We will then post these paragraphs so that you, the reader, can vote for your Friend of Chris. Astute readers have noted that this was not in fact the process for the inaugural Friend of Chris Award in September, and CW apologizes for not giving the readership voting rights at that time. But we hope those wounds have healed and you'll participate in this election with no hard feelings. Suffrage is alive and well here at CW, trust. Stay tuned for Meet the Candidates!

Chris Weekly: He can't lose with us in tow.

Friday, September 21, 2007

What's Chris Thinking About Right This Second?


"Not really thinking about much right now. Mostly about [my wife's huge birthday] weekend and stuff. I usually take my thinking cap off by 2:00 on Friday."

9/21/2007 4:24 PM


Leave it to Chris to show up the working world, most of whom turned off their thinking caps before leaving the house this morning. See, that wasn't an option for Chris because he had to SADDLE UP AND RIDE INTO THE CITY. But rest easy, Chris, as the weekend is finally upon us. You've got one more ride in you and that one gets you home where your two biggest fans await. And on that note, my thinking cap has been officially removed for the week as well. [Be sure to click on my little dude up there!]


Here's to a wonderful weekend for you too from Chris Weekly, your only source for all things Chris.


Chrisstalking

Seems September Friend-of-Chris Peter Barile made someone a little jealous with his creative writing ["September's Friend of Chris Is...," Sept. 4]. Self-proclaimed Number One Fan Ricky Tinkle writes (in haiku):

Lucky burrito
Chipotle Seven Corners
I watch from afar

Chris's Mom: She's Just Like Chris!


We've gotten some good feedback about what we call "The Lightbulb Post" here at CW ["From the Editor in Chief, U.S.," Sept. 20]. One letter is from the woman who is truly responsible for the genesis of this publication: Chris's mama. Kathy from Alexandria writes:


"[Touching scalding hot objects without any protection] just might be an inherited trait. Forgive me for boasting (or being nuts) but I've been pulling pans out of hot ovens without the aid of a potholder (or shirt) for as long as I can remember."

Sincerely,
Mom of Chris

September 20, 2007 12:22 PM

CW replies: First, we like how Kathy has foregone her own personal identity, choosing instead to call herself Mom of Chris. As the Great Bard once wrote, What's in a name? When you are a friend or relative of Chris, that's all anyone really needs (or wants) to know. Thanks for writing, Kathy. We wouldn't be here if it weren't for you.

Thursday, September 20, 2007

Update: Make That a Twensky


Fans,

You read here recently that Chris's daily commute involves a five-mile ride both in and out of the city ["From the Editor in Chief, P.M. Edition"]. And while that scoop was exclusively obtained during a one-on-one interview with Chris, it was in fact erroneous, as the interview was conducted during the Redskins/Eagles game, and Chris was evidently not giving me his undivided attention. Upon reading the post he was quick to correct us; he actually rides ten miles each way, for a daily total of TWENTY miles. Which means if he were to ride each day of the work week, he'd log 100 miles! That's like from DC to Richmond! If it were possible to think higher of you, Chris, we would. Keep up the hard work!

Chris: He's Just Like Us!




He looks for the latest expiration date!

From the Editor in Chief, U.S.


Hello all,

It's another Thursday at the office. Blech. I posted that picture there because that's what I wish I were doing right about now: eating Cheetos in the Hamptons. But with my big birthday weekend ahead of me things are looking up. There's a light at the end of the tunnel, as it were. Speaking of light... (How's that for a segue? And here's a couple of puns!) Chris "shone" his "brilliant" wisdom on me last night as we readied for bed.

See, we have two sources of light in the bedroom, both of which are usable but broken. The bedside lamp is missing the little black thing that you turn to make it come on; we had to put it on the living room lamp after its little black thing broke. So, to turn on this light we just plug in and unplug. A pain but not big enough of one apparently, as it's been this way for some time now. The other light, in the closet, is one of those old-fashioned, no frills, lightbulb-with-a-string setups; like something you'd see in an interrogation room. Well, the string's spring, if you will, broke a couple months ago. Yes, months. The string hangs but its useless. You can no longer pull it to make the light come on. Rather, we must screw in and unscrew the bulb. Not a big deal when the bulb has been off and is cool. When it's been on for a while, it's a different story. Which brings me to the aforementioned wisdom.

I went to go (literally) turn the closet light off, carefully selecting a shirt I deemed thick enough to unscrew a flaming hot bulb. I couldn't get a good turn. Admittedly, I probably didn't give it my all, calling instead for backup. "Chris!!!!!!!" He comes in and unscrews the bulb in like 3 seconds. "I'm so worthless, eh, babe?," I ask coquettishly. He explains to me that he's so fast at it because he doesn't even use a shirt! He goes in and unscrews the hot bulb WITH HIS BARE HANDS. He says (happily) the trick is to do it enough so that you lose feeling in your fingertips. Ahh, so that's what I was doing wrong! I wasn't allowing the nerves in my fingertips to burn to the point that I've lost sensation! He's always teaching me something. And oftentimes I also learn a little something about myself in the process.

So readers, you're probably asking, instead of continuing to burn his fingers off, why doesn't Chris just replace the light thingy in the closet???? Because anyone can just "replace the light thingy." Chris's solutions involve discomfort. How many of you can say the same thing? [CW UPDATE: Chris confirms he has no plans to fix the closet lighting situation any time soon.]

We at CW know you have many choices when it comes to selecting the blogs you frequent, and we appreciate your business.

Wednesday, September 19, 2007

What's Chris Thinking Right This Second?

"I'm wondering why almost everything I do here at work has to be a drawn out [into a] complicated process. Sometimes the most simple tasks are the biggest pain in the ass." 4:51 PM 9/19/2007

So true, Chris. Such is the workaday life. Another astute observation from the man himself.

To honor Chris's hard work and (admittedly wavering) dedication to his job, we have selected his employer as CW's first winner of its Pain in the Ass Award! Congratulations, mystery place of employment, and shame on you for causing Chris any discomfort, be it figurative or literal.

Work sucks. Read
Chris Weekly instead.

(Ass medallion courtesy of
www.usmcvta.org)

Chris: Penalty for Excessive Celebration




Tuesday, September 18, 2007

Chris Resolves Mayo Dispute



Readers,

As you may well know, Chris loves his Potbelly sandwiches. Or he used to. Lately, he's been getting lunch elsewhere because they can't seem to get right his desired portion of mayonnaise. Oftentimes, his sandwich [the Wreck on white, for those taking notes] is too dry, lacking in the condiment. When he asks for extra, it's returned to him swimming in the stuff. You're probably thinking, Why doesn't he just ask for light mayo or mayo on the side? These are questions I too have asked. But Chris, in his admirable humility and magnanimity, refuses to engage in any sort of conflict, and yes, interfacing with Potbelly personnel about mayonnaise distribution qualifies as conflict. I overlook his defeatist attitude in this particular situation because no one likes to look like a fussypants. And so, he has chosen to go without his Potbelly, patronizing Cosi instead, or simply grabbing a hot dog and chips from Amy the Vendor. Until this week. Today, CW received the sort of news for which it exists. Take a look at this e-mail:

"I'm thinking about how my taste for Potbelly sandwiches has returned since I started asking for 'a little extra' mayo. Makes all the difference." 9/18/2007 4:00 PM

Phew! Congratulations, Chris!! And congratulations, reader, for it is your unending support that gives Chris that extra bit of moxie when he needs it most. When you have legions of fans at your back, asking for a little extra mayo ain't no thang. In honor of Chris's breakthrough, I implore you all to ask for a little extra mayo on your next sandwich. [We're just thankful he's moved on from Miracle Whip!]

Chris Weekly: The sauce on the side of your dry ass life.

Chris: He's Just Like Us!


He likes a good cone.

Letter to the Editor


Brett from Alexandria writes:

"Due to our daily need for Chris Weekly, will you consider changing the name to Chris Daily?"

CW replies: Thanks for writing to us, Brett. And with a good question to boot. I too have asked myself, aloud, to the chagrin of my officemate, "Should we be called Chris Daily since I'm not making one big post a week, but rather sporadic posts throughout the week?" But I decided against going daily because the title of Chris Daily sort of mandates that I have new, fresh content every day, and while I strive to, sometimes it's difficult due to the societal demands with which I already contend, namely my "real job" and homemaking duties. Chris Weekly works with my random posting style because I'm bringing you, the readers, Chris's week. The scoop, as it were. Sometimes it rains, sometimes it pours. Most of the time it dribbles. But as Tom Petty once sang, "The waiting is the hardest part." It is our dream here at CW to have a readership that fiends for the latest Chris news, as I do. Brett, your letter is proof that we're doing something right.

Got a question for Chris or the crew here at CW? Let your fingers do the talking for once, big mouth! Write to us at BigJuicyVan[at]gmail[dot]com.

Chris Weekly: An exercise in patience.

Chris Weekly Pays Tribute

On this, the anniversary of the premature death of guitar genius James Marshall "Jimi" Hendrix, CW asks you to take a moment and watch this clip of his moving (and impromptu!) performance of The Star Spangled Banner at Woodstock. Notice how he recreates the sound of bombing with his axe, conveying the societal unrest of the 60s through those beautifully grungy guitar riffs. Listen to it hand-over-heart. Hell, if this doesn't make you support the Patriot Act, I don't know what will. Kidding!

Oh, Jimi, what could have been...
RIP James Marshall Hendrix, b. Nov. 27, 1942, d. Sept. 18, 1970.

Monday, September 17, 2007

From the Editor in Chief, U.S., PM Edition


Good evening, readers,

Forgive me for not giving you your Monday AM post. The calls and letters are not going unnoticed. I realize that for some of you, [ahem, Ricky Tinkle] Chris Weekly has become akin to a morning shot of java, and without it you just don't feel ready to face the day. But I just couldn't bring it today. I'm so burned out at my "real job." I've been a certifiable malcontent lately around the office. All that really keeps me going is this blog, Perez and DListed and Windows Space Cadet 3-D pinball (on which I have almost attained a score of 7 freaking million!).

But I digress. Chris said something this morning that galvanized me. To do better. And tackle that pile of work I've pushed to the side for a week or so now.

As he was gearing up for yet another work week's daily ride, he noted how his legs were tired and his body in general was sore from both our increasingly uncomfortable spring mattress and the energy exerted over the weekend working on the bathroom. (Yes, we're still working on it. Please, no more questions regarding progress.) I gave him a reassuring look and continued getting myself out the door. Then Chris sighed, pulled himself up off the couch and said, "Well, I gotta look at it like if I didn't ride every day, no way would I get enough riding time in for the week." [Editor's Note: The preceding sentence was paraphrased.]

Later on, it hit me. The wisdom that lie behind that comment. Aside from the fact that he mandates physical activity be a part of his life -- which is admirable in itself -- he perseveres through the fatigue, through the contempt and antipathy for the work week. He gets on his bike and prepares for a 10-mile ride into the city while I plop my fat ass down on the torn leather seat of my '95 Toyota Avalon, turn the heat on to offset the morning chill and set my iPod to drive 2 miles. He exerts while the rest of us coast. He must stay sharp while the rest of us space out. He can only pedal faster while our butts toast like chestnuts atop seat warmers. He shouts "On your left!" while the rest of us flip our blinker.

Turning a negative into a positive. It is Chris's modus operandi in life, and it was my inspiration in launching this publication. The negative being my arguably unhealthy preoccupation with Chris. I think I'll take a page then from Chris Weekly, and do work. At the office. Tomorrow. Not now, of course, as I'm covering Chris watching the Redskins game live! At our place! With selected Friends of Chris and The Brothers Tank! I promise exclusive pics tomorrow, or at least by late evening tomorrow, of the highs, the lows and the intensity that was Redskins v. Iggles.

Til then, my hot dog's ready! Go Skins!

Sunday, September 16, 2007

Update: Chris Photo Confirmed for German Tour Book


Readership, please join us in celebrating Chris's most high-profile photo credit to date. His photo of the Church of the Three Kings has officially been selected for the Schmap Frankfurt Guide!! Check out the e-mail and photo at left...and then check out the schmapplets!!

Hi Christopher,

I am delighted to let you know that your submitted photo
has been selected for inclusion in the newly released third
edition of our Schmap Frankfurt Guide:

Church of the Three Kings
http://www.schmap.com/frankfurt/sights_churches/p=194510/i=194510.jpg

If you like the guide and have a website, blog or personal
page, then please also check out our schmapplets -
customizable widgetized versions of our Schmap Frankfurt
Guide, complete with your published photo:

http://www.schmap.com/schmapplets/p=64571845N00/c=SE15051129

Thanks so much for letting us include your photo - please
enjoy the guide!

Best regards,

Emma Williams,
Managing Editor, Schmap Guides

Congratulations, Chris!!!!!

Chris Weekly: Getting dangerously close to brilliance.

Friday, September 14, 2007

What's Chris Thinking About Right This Second?


"I'm thinking about OJ Simpson and how he has really lost it. I mean, I knew he wasn't exactly with it but to say that he was conducting 'a sting operation' to collect sports memorabilia that he claims was stolen from him is just nuts. OJ, I think it's wise to leave the sting operations to the police."

9/14/2007 4:16 PM

[Editor's Note: As my man Vincent Bugliosi points out in his book, "
Outrage: The Five Reasons Why O. J. Simpson Got Away With Murder," OJ is not to be referred to as OJ. OJ is not your friend. He is Simpson the Murderer.]

One For Our Side


Chris says, "The US House of Representatives approved an energy conservation bill in August that includes, among other things, a tax break of $20 per month for bike commuters, which takes effect at the beginning of next year."

Woohoo!

Thursday, September 13, 2007

New Fan Alert

It's one of Chris's best attributes: He likes to make everybody feel special. And so, he joins me in welcoming "Evo" to the Chris Weekly community. At this point, all we know about Evo is that he/she lurks around various blogs, such as PerezHilton.com or my beloved DListed.com, both blogs that I frequent and on which I have heavily promoted CW. But as September Friend-of-Chris Peter Barile can attest, even a new friend of Chris is a good friend of Chris. Let's give a hearty CW how-do-ya-do to Evo. He writes:

"Hey there."

Chris, upon learning of the new non-inner-circle fan, had this to say:

Chris: "I feel a little threatened."

CW: Why?

Chris: I don't know if I could handle outsiders encroaching on my world. I'm not sure outsiders can handle it. For most people, it usually takes years of building up a callus to my bullshit. You have to know me back when in order to deal with it now.

Ever the humble, modest soul. How could random strangers NOT be interested in him? He amazes me sometimes.

Evo, again, outstretched hands and a big kiss on the cheek from the editorial staff here at CW. We just have one question, dude. What took you so long?

A Chris Weekly Exclusive


Okay, readership. You've been out-fanned.

September's Friend-of-Chris Peter Barile has shown you all up by turning his admiration for Chris and this eponymous publication into a creative work. I give you [trumpets sound] Peter's somewhat-wistful haiku. (For those of you who don't know, haiku is a Chinese form of poetry where you must stick to this syllable pattern: 5, 7, 5. I thought the accompanying image from this great t-shirt on Threadless.com helped to convey how tricky they can be.)

"CW Changed my life.
How I long for Chris sightings.
Wish DC was home."


Don't worry, Peter. You'll see Chris soon :) For now, treat Chris Weekly as your personal diary and find solace in this reply haiku, from CW to you:

"A thousand thank yous
For your inspirational
Words. Keeps us going."

Chris Weekly: Now you can exhale.

Chris: He's Just Like Us!



He reheats Chinese leftovers!

Letter to the Editor


Brett from Alexandria writes:

"In regards to the Footloose dance, I heard that Chris has never seen Footloose. Does he still find the bit funny? If not, how is this relevant to CW readership?"

September 13, 2007 7:47 AM

CW replies: Thanks for writing, Brett. Chris certainly enjoys Flight of the Conchords or it wouldn't carry the "Chris Recommends..." label, which we here at CW do not bestow lightly. [Please see our previous posts, "Chris Hearts His...Nikon D40," Sept. 6; and "Chris Endorses...Eamonn's," Sept. 4]

True, his lack of exposure to the great coming-of-age/teen angst films of yore [such classics as The Goonies, The Princess Bride, Say Anything and John Hughes' entire catalog] is a hinderance in situations like this, where having seen Footloose 100 times and knowing Kevin Bacon's moves [shown above] down to each thrust make the scene even funnier. But alas, he likes their brand of humor and finds the scene funny for what it is: a young, frustrated man with a penchance for wildlife wear blowing off steam the old-fashioned way. Dancing his heart out.

Have a question for CW Editor in Chief, U.S., Kelly Brooks? Write to us at BigJuicyVan[at]gmail[dot]com.


Wednesday, September 12, 2007

"It's Business Time"

After that last post I got "Business Time" in my head, came across this performance and had to share the laugh with the CW readership. TEAM BUILDING EXERCISE '99, y'all! Enjoy.

Chris Recommends...


Move over, Mel. There's a new fan in town. If you haven't seen Bret McKenzie and Jemaine Clement's hilarious show on HBO, get thee to the idiot box -- or rather to Netflix, as Season One ended last week. Highlights include: their agent Murray, the songs "Business Time," "Part-Time Model" and "The Humans are Dead," and Bret's angry "Footloose" dance, which will have you in stitches. Particularly if you've seen Footloose. [Be sure to click on pic, courtesy of www.conchords.co.nz]

CW Classic: The Dental Misadventures of Mr. Hank


Hello readers, both new and established. In looking at our old blog [www.chrisandkel.blogspot.com], I came across this great interview with Chris about his trip to the dentist for a cavity filling, his first one. Upon learning of its existence, he refused to have the cavity filled right then and there as Dr. Kan suggested. Chris insisted he have time to psyche himself up, even though he was about to get married and travel to Vancouver for his honeymoon. Most people would not want to have something they were dreading waiting for them upon return from a big vacation. But that's Chris for ya. He does it his way, just like Frank. And now, I give you the interview that started it all.


Chris had his much-dreaded dentist appointment this morning,
and spoke exclusively to me about the experience.

KB: Today, at the age of 29, you endured your first cavity filling.
Were you genuinely frightened? And if so, what part of the
procedure caused you the most duress?


CT: I was more uneasy than frightened. I was most concerned with
the possibility of feeling the drill, meaning the Novocaine wasn't
doing its job. Kinda like the horror stories you read about people
waking up during surgery.

KB: I heard you received some inspirational counsel from
family members. What stories of past dental discomfort
resonated with you the most? What gave you the courage
to open wide without reservation?


CT: It wasn't so much anyone else's past dental stories that worried
me as much as my prior dental experiences. In my mind, I already
dread the cleaning, and this has got to be worse, right?
[My sister-in-law] Mer really helped by telling me how it's
no big deal, as we're on the same wavelength with so many other things.

KB: Describe for our readers the unique technique Dr. Kan
performed to distract you while administering the shot of Novocaine.


CT: She employed a technique where she constantly yanked on
the inside of my cheek (on the side of my mouth with the cavity)
with her finger. The hygienist (who thinks I'm "Mr. Hank") was holding
Mr. Thirsty in the other side of my mouth. I think the idea here is to
make it so there's so much else going on that you don't even realize
the shot is taking place.

KB: I've heard the smell from the drill cutting through teeth can
be bothersome. Was this something you noticed?


CT: I noticed no smell.

KB: You listened to your iPod throughout. What were
you listening to?


CT: The rare "Enhanced EP" from Wilco. It's a short tracklist that
goes a little something like this: A Magazine Called Sunset,
Bob Dylan's 49th Beard, Handshake Drugs, Kamera,
More Like the Moon, Woodgrain. The procedure was over
before Handshake Drugs!

KB: What were you thinking about during the procedure?

CT: I tried to lose myself in the soothing sounds of Jeff Tweedy
and Wilco but I couldn't really get the thought of the drill grinding
away at my tooth out of my head. Even though I couldn't feel a
thing I kept waiting for something that would propel me out of that chair.

KB: Compare a cavity filling to a standard cleaning.

CT: In the end it was quicker and more painless. They didn't employ
the scraping pick thing once!

KB: What was the worst part about undergoing the procedure today?

CT: The $100 deductible.

KB: What did the procedure teach you about dental care?

CT: Be sure to get a cleaning every six months!

[Editor's Note: It's been almost a year since Chris's last cleaning.]

Tuesday, September 11, 2007

Chris: He's Just Like Us!


He enjoys quiet "me" time.

What's Chris Thinking About Right This Second?

"Gettin' the hell out of here."
9/11/2007 4:08 PM

Fan Mail Continues to Drip In



Anonymous writes:
"I'm not trying to take any attention away from Chris but his brother Brett has some serious 'guns.' Dumbbells? Free weights? What IS his secret?"

CW replies: While we can only guess at the specifics of Brett's health regimen, we imagine that holding Chris up on a pedestal gives him quite a workout. [Brett is shown with Barile at the gun show.]

September Friend-of-Chris Peter Barile writes:
"I LOVE Chris Weekly!!!!!!!!!!! You have made a die hard fan out of me. I find myself checking it multiple times daily! (You can post that)."

CW replies: Oh don't worry, Peter. We did post that. Because such words of encouragement are what keeps Chris going, and what keeps Chris Weekly in business. The business of caring. (About Chris.)

September Friend-of-Chris Nominee Tim Hays writes:
"It is now Tuesday and I just wanted to mention that, although our Sunday outing to the 'Lyle' was above average, the nasty taste left by those sour pusses sitting next to us still remains. I believe the incident requires a bit of venting on CW. They had no right to try and piss on our parade. Who did those people think they were? We should have sat back down and ordered another round. I should have started hitting on that guy's wife, got her number and then not call her."

CW replies: Simmer down now, Tim, simmer down. Readers, Tim is referring to our post-Redskins dinner at The Carlyle, where upon exiting for the evening, we overheard this guy from the next table say, "Thank God." Apparently, we were being too loud as we downed limoncello and pomegranate margs and reminisced about the old days. In retrospect, I did notice rather vitriolic stares coming from a woman sitting next to me on the banquette, but thought that she was simply dripping with envy at both my dress and dinner company. In either case, Tim, Chris is about unity, not division. He would want us to just let this slide, and if we are to uphold the sworn mission statement of this publication, we shall. But if you're feeling powerless, here's how you can help: tell a friend about CW. Tell a friend to tell a friend. Once we reach regional phenomenon status and CW is on the lips of the entire DC metro area, those a-holes will realize how close they sat to greatness.


Keep those letters coming! Write to BigJuicyVan[at]gmail[dot]com.
Chris Weekly. No, it's not a joke.


Chrisspotting


9/11/2007 11:17 AM

"I saw Chris last night at China Delight on Route 7! He was waiting for his order: crispy beef, egg drop soup, combination fried rice and egg rolls. I overheard him complaining to the guy about how his wife insists upon ordering the egg rolls, which pushes the total over 25 bucks. He seemed distressed but the guy gave him a reassuring pat and threw in some extra duck sauce. "

Jenny Sexton
Four Mile Run

No Wonder He Has a Hard Time Getting Up

Chris, on any weekday morning around 8:20 am, rendered completely helpless (more like hopeless) by The Mar.

Monday, September 10, 2007

Pick Pic of the Day


It wasn't had...to get the potty started. [Editor's Note: Those aren't typos but rather my phonetically spelled New Zealand accent.] A particularly fun moment during our Labor Day festivities. Chris takes a shot of the TQ with lucky Friend-of-Chris Tim Hays and Brother-of-Chris Brett Tank. Cheers, indeed.

More Fan Mail

The Chris: Cruisin' for a Bruisin' post got two comments! And though they are both from "Anonymous," I think the jig is up--at least for the first one. Hmmmm.
Anonymous said...

I care.
Sincerely,
Chris' mom

September 6, 2007 7:27 PM


Anonymous said...

Ruby, Love the blog and check it every day (no pressure). While I'm still not going to purchase a camera, I must know who writes your fabulously hilarious captions!

September 6, 2007 8:09 PM

Editor's Reply: That's the CW thinktank hard at work, Anonymous. And please do check us every day. While I could handle the pressure, there IS no pressure when you're providing a desired and heretofore unavailable service to the community like we are doing here at Chris Weekly. Thanks for your continued support.


Chris Weekly. It's like Us Weekly without the celeb gossip and lucrative advertisers. Unfortunately.

From the Editor in Chief, U.S.

Loyal readers,

Whew. I’m tired y’all. I’m so tired my eyes were having a hard time adjusting this morning as I ironed my and Chris's respective shirts for the day. My performance at work will be about as lethargic and uninspired as Britney’s VMA disaster. But I’ll press on, as Chris would, does and teaches me to do.

He also had a tough time getting up this morning after a big day at FedEx field for the Redskins win against the Dolphins, and subsequent celebratory feast at the 'Lyle with our buddy Tim. When CW asked about his plans for the upcoming work week, he replied sleepily, “to hunker down.” That’s Chris-speak for "just making it through the week without late nights or spending much money." Which means the CW readership can expect EXCLUSIVE coverage of Chris on the Internet! Chris heating up a $1.00 Totino’s party pizza for dinner! Chris reluctantly enjoying an episode of “90210”! Chris finally putting the hardware on our bathroom vanity! Or Chris napping with Marley!

But this weekend is a whole different story. Cousin Danny ["Wessel Family Reunion Pics," Aug. 16] has roped us in for a whitewater rafting adventure in West Virginia! Class 5 rapids, baby. As your source for all things Chris, CW will be the only publication bringing you the pics and stories from this trip so keep checking on the daily.

Stay classy,
K


Sunday, September 9, 2007

Chrisstalking






Chris Weekly acquired exclusive photographs of Chris's Old Town outing to Chipotle over Labor Day weekend thanks to CW reader and self-proclaimed No. 1 Fan of Chris, Ricky Tinkle, who had this to say about the encounter:

"I couldn't believe it. I was behind him in line and got to hear him order: burrito with carnitas and all the fixins except for salsa and sour cream.
[Editor's Note: also chips and guac.] He took a seat by the window and consumed the burrito exactly how I imagined: huge bites, long chews. Then he would take a swig of lemonade and wipe his mouth. Then he would go back in for another bite. And then wipe again. He may have burped at one point. It was awesome."

Thanks, Ricky, for helping CW in its endless quest to bring the latest Chris news to the masses. If you see Chris around town, write to us like Ricky and share the experience with those who will treasure the account. Write to our new e-mail address: BigJuicyVan[at]gmail[dot]com.

Saturday, September 8, 2007

Chris Weekly: New E-mail Address!



Readership, unfortunately, my RubyVino@gmail.com account has been besotted with, or rather rendered useless by, spam. Not the cool kind in the grocery store with the cult following; the bad kind that can completely bring down an e-mail account. Thanks to an order TWO YEARS AGO with the Allen Brothers premium steak company for my pops on Father's Day, that particular account's inbox shows a couple of messages from Chris, Ric and Peter Barile, and a lot of promotional pings about ribeyes and filet mignons. Which admittedly tempt me to order from time to time. But I digress. Should you feel compelled to reply to a post or photograph you see on Chris Weekly, henceforth please send your e-mails to our new address: BigJuicyVan(at)gmail(dot)com.

Image courtesy of www.4x4plus.com.

Chris: He's Just Like Us!


He sings in the car!

Friday, September 7, 2007

Chrisspotting

"I was having lunch at the Old Ebbitt Grill on 15th when I looked over to my left and there was Chris! I knew it was him because the lovely lady with whom he was dining said his name. She must have been his wife, as he seemed absolutely mesmerized by her. And while Chris was heard praising his Reuben, his date was less than pleased with her chili. Chris Weekly rules!"

Ricky Tinkle
Washington

9/7/2007 4:00 PM

Chris Applauds the Senate


Finally, a vote we can use. This is one for our side!

DEERFIELD, Ill.--(Business Wire)--Beam Global Spirits & Wine, Inc., the world's number one bourbon producer, proudly applauds that the U.S. Senate has declared, by unanimous vote, September as "National Bourbon Heritage Month". This resolution reinforces bourbon as 'America's Native Spirit' by celebrating the family heritage, tradition and deep-rooted legacy that the bourbon industry contributes to the United States. The resolution calls for consumers who enjoy bourbon to do so responsibly and in moderation. 'This is a great honor that the U.S. Senate has bestowed upon the bourbon industry,' said Bill Samuels Jr., president of Maker's Mark Distillery. 'The tradition of family heritage, authenticity and craftsmanship behind bourbon is what has made it an American Icon.'

Chris had this to say: "It goes to show how fondly they think of bourbon; they gave it a longer month than Black History Month." Another astute observation from the man himself.

I love that it passed unanimously, and that bourbon is described as an American icon with a tradition of family heritage. Americans love the sauce. Except for that part about enjoying it responsibly and in moderation, we here at CW agree wholeheartedly with an enthusiastic call for another round!

Image courtesy of JupiterImages.com.

Thursday, September 6, 2007

Chris Hearts His ... Nikon D40


I hope you're sitting down, readership! We have the time of the man himself, speaking exclusively to CW on his latest love, the Nikon D40 digital SLR. I give you...Chris.

"We recently purchased a Nikon D40 and I love it. It's Nikon's entry level DSLR and it gets great reviews for picture quality and value (among other things like small size and weight compared to other DSLRs). Read what Ken Rockwell has to say about the D40 here: http://www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/d40.htm.
He compared the D40 to two other high end Nikons and a few Canons here: http://www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/d40.htm. After reading these reviews and researching on the web my decision was solidified and I haven't had any regrets.

I ordered the D40 kit (comes with camera body and 18-55mm lens) through Amazon and also purchased a zoom lens (55-200mm with vibration reduction) for around $750 altogether. The 18-55mm provides 3x optical zoom and the 55-200mm is equivalent to around 11-12x. I'll be set with these lenses for a long time.

If you're not interested in a DSLR I would highly recommend the other camera we own, the Canon A710 IS. It has 7.1 megapixels (read why megapixles don't matter much here: http://www.kenrockwell.com/tech/mpmyth.htm), but more importantly 6x optical zoom and image stabilization (Nikon refers to this feature as vibration reduction (VR) while Canon uses IS). I can't stress enough
what a great feature image stabilization is [Editor's Note: True dat.]. You'll get much cleared and in focus shots, especially in low light and/or high zoom situations, without needing a tripod.

Fans, if you're really interested in a DSLR I'd suggest trying ours to see what you think. I can almost guarantee you'll love taking photos with it and love the results even better. You can try both cameras side by side and see the differences yourself.

You may have seen commercials about how Nikon gave 200 people in a small town in S.C. the D40 and asked them to take pictures as they go about their lives. You can see the results here: http://www.stunningnikon.com/picturetown/.

For photos I've taken with the D40 and the A710 IS check out my Flickr site: http://flickr.com/photos/ctankcycles/. The first photos I took with the D40 are the ones from the Nationals game. The zoo photos were
with the D40 and the shots of CW Editor in Chief Kelly Brooks in the ocean are as well. You can get an idea of the kind of photos the A710 IS can take by looking at the pics I took in Germany. If you're not sure which camera was used click on the picture and the screen that opens will have the camera info on the lower right side of the page.

Write to me at CW with any questions: rubyvino@gmail.com. I'm MORE THAN THRILLED to help in any way I can."

There you have it, folks. So let it be written, so let it be done. Should you buy a camera other than the one recommended here, shame on you and good luck.

Chris: Cruisin' for a Bruisin'


For those of you who care, presumably the entire CW readership, Chris's aforementioned bruise from Mammoth continues to heal nicely.

Wednesday, September 5, 2007

Chris Breaks Personal Best


Did you see Chris today on his morning commute? Probably not, seeing as how he likely BLEW BY YOUR ASS. Chris reports to CW that he made it to work today in 28 MINUTES, as opposed to his usual 30+. "Could be a record," he said. "If not it's the fastest I've gone in some time."

Maybe you can catch a glimpse of him riding home, but he will certainly try to outdo himself so be ready! Should you spot my shooting star, share your stories and photos with Chris Weekly by writing to rubyvino@gmail.com.

Tuesday, September 4, 2007

Chris Endorses...



Eamonn's A Dublin Chipper, 728 King Street, Old Town, Alexandria, VA 22314.

He spoke with CW on why it gets the Chris Guarantee:

"Eamonn's is by far the best fish and chips I've had in my life," he declared. "Bear in mind I've never been to the British Isles so I might not be the preeminent authority on the matter, but if they're any better over there I'll be on the next boat across the pond."

"The crispiness of the fish and chips is unmatched and you can actually taste the cod (and it tastes GOOD)!," he continued. "The only other fish and chips I've had that even come close were the ones my lovely bride and I had while waiting for the ferry to depart Horseshoe Bay for Vancouver Island [while on our honeymoon].When a commoner's dish like fish and chips leaves you yearning for your next taste, you know you've struck gold. Gold Jerry, GOLD!"

September's Friend of Chris Is...





PETER BARILE!!!!!

Peter is a 23-year-old Californian and a new friend of Chris. "[I am] so thrilled to be a part of the 'Chris Weekly' revolution!," he said upon learning of the accolade from CW. [Chris Weekly Editor in Chief, U.S. Kelly Brooks is shown above briefing Peter on the responsibilities of CW's Friend of Chris.]

When he's not working in the "riveting" textile industry, Peter says he enjoys camping, swimming, hiking, boating and "good old-fashioned fun." As a lifetime resident of San Francisco, he says he tries to get out of the city on weekends to enjoy the many landscapes California has to offer. But there's more to Peter than a good time: "Having just signed a lease on a new apartment, my current focus is to gather pieces of art for the white walls to make it look more like a home, and less like a mental institution. I do often wonder which one would make me more successful."

Of the announcement, Chris had this to say: "It's great to be in the company of people as esteemed as Peter is. He's one of the world's most acclaimed proponents of a green-living lifestyle."

Congratulations, Peter, from Chris Weekly!

Breaking News: Chris Photo Selected for Travel Guide


This is why we're Number One in the industry. You won't find this scoop anywhere else:

A picture that Chris took while on business in Frankfurt [shown above] has been selected for a Frankfurt travel guide! "The picture is of the Three Kings Church," Chris explained in an interview with CW, "and they're asking for my permission to use it in their guide."

"I'll get a photo credit for it," he continued. "I agreed to their request so now we'll just have to wait and see if they end up using the photo."

Good Luck, Chris!!!!!!!!!

Chris's Friends: They're Just Like Chris!




They zip up on their way out!

The Lavatory, New Testament


Behold...The Santa Rosa


Tiles up. The first time.


Vanity, sink, limestone and medicine cabinet in.


Tiles up. The second time. Astute readers may actually see blood, sweat and tears.


The finished product!