Rambling

No, not that IMDB, this IMDb! I've been hooked on this site since late 1994, however I used to skim over stuff on their old newsgroup haunt around 1991/1992. Today, IMDb is more than just alive and well, with yet another revision to their site's design being unveiled today - not bad guys!

Now popularised by intense American commercialisation of the last century, Valentine's Day is possibly the most obtuse and superficial holiday on the occidental calendar. With its deep roots in history, this day has now become an significant cash cow in the Hallmark holiday line-up.

In the West, there is societal obligation that lovers must present each other with gifts, and somehow love each other more-so on this day than any other day. Chocolates, flowers (preferably red roses), and lingerie are the norm for intimate presents to one's other half, accompanied by the "traditional" pre-printed greeting card. In more Americanized [sīc] cultures, it is perceived that the expense and lavishness of a gift reflects proportionally on the degree of love being declared.

Does anyone else find this just a little repugnant?

Spring is upon us here in Belgium, despite it being 45 days early. Trees are starting to grow new leaves, birds are building nests, and the weather this weekend has all the attributes of perfect spring days. It's at this point that I feel inclined to point out that I could have been wrong about it being winter in a previous post -- maybe winter was cancelled this year?