Ultrapure Water Corrosion

I was told by a sagacious professor of chemistry that ultrapure, de-ionized water will corrode stainless steel. You can't blame me for wondering why. I always pictured water as a passive solvent. But "H2O" in its purest form can indeed be corrosive. Copper, glass, plastic, and stainless steel will all slowly lose molecules to the pure liquid. Highly insoluble metals, i.e. pure tin, are the only materials immune to water's alluring properties. But, if the gaseous oxygen is removed from the water before it is stored, you're ok to use whatever typical storage container you want. I still don't know why this happens, but I imagine it has to do with huge osmolarity forces coupled with the chiseling action of electrons on dissolved O2 molecules.

Call Me a Pour Sport

Yes, at last we poured the foundation and we are so happy with how it turned out. The stars really aligned for us. It was delivered and mixed for us, which saved an unthinkable amount of work. A family friend came over and helped us figure things out. And the surface is about as smooth as we could have hoped for. Except, of course, for a little decoration provided by my sister and mom.

Global Warming

If people are genuinely convinced about global warming, why aren't more people moving up to Alaska? I don't believe in it, so I'm happy where I'm at. But it seems to me that those who do believe in imminent, dramatic increases in temperatures would go somewhere cold to beat the rush. They might expect the property values in Alaska to go through the roof when it happens.

Foundation Part III

The grading of the foundation is complete, and the box for the concrete slab is built. It will be poured Friday at 2:30. Funny how things always take a little longer than we plan. But they always get done.

Man's Best Friend

I have always loved dogs. It's not a good time for me to go and get one, but maybe in a year or two. So I have posted a new poll hoping to get some input. There are few options to choose from, but there should be at least one you like. Comments would be acceptable for a write-in candidate.
Also, please note that the breed name "German Shepherd Dog" is correct nomenclature: the "Dog" part is not redundant. It carries over from the translation of "Deutscher Schäferhund." Whereas in the "Australian Shepherd," the "dog" part is only implied. In Germany maybe they call it "Australier Schäfer." Anyone know? I love dog trivia.

My Favorite Infant

My sister and her family came up to visit last weekend. They brought my youngest nephew who I will refer to as Jacques. Adorable. I didn't get to spend that much time with him because he was more of a night owl than I am. Actually he sleeps in 30 minute intervals some nights which has taken a toll on his parents. But he is cute anyway, and my sister took a REAL picture of us which I borrowed from her blog.

Rumors

Please disregard any rumors that may be circulating about my engagement to Jennifer Aniston. It is a hoax. It is best to squelch rumors before they get out of control, as much fun as it can be to pretend. Sure, we are good friends, but that's all we will ever be. I wouldn't be able to handle the constant media attention, nor am I confident our relationship would last (you know how volatile celebrity relationships can be). Plus, I can't see myself dating an older woman.