It is the official eve of the Summer Olympics and I am in a good mood. The fact that I have a Thursday Rundown post to write makes me even more joyful. Let’s get started…

Happy Birthday, Mom – I know it would make my mom’s day if I mentioned her in my blog so please let me wish her a happy birthday. One year away from a milestone, my mom turned 59 on Tuesday. Mom, thank you for being an outstanding parent, a shining example, and the most selfless person I know. I love you and miss you! Also, happy birthday to my nephew, Harrison. Exactly 55 years after my mom was born in Walla Walla, Washinigton, “Captain Harrison” was born in Myrtle Beach.

My mom celebrated her birthday on Tuesday. This is her and I at my wedding in June.

“Stranger Things” – The latest Netflix original creation to gain massive amounts of praise and attention is “Stranger Things.” The science-fiction series takes place in a small town in the early 1980s. The show chronicles the events following the disappearance of a middle school boy. To be honest, it took me some time to get into it. However, last night after I watched the third episode I was hooked. In fact, it sucked me in so much that I immediately watched the fourth episode (I usually won’t watch two shows of a series in a night). The acting is really good, the setting of the show is very authentic, and the music will grow on you. Some of the character relationships are masterfully developed as well. I am excited to watch the final four episodes.

“Stranger Things” is a pretty decent science fiction Netflix series.

From the Archives – I have a couple blog post gems to share with you that I wrote on past dates of August 4. Just last year I wrote about whether I really would want to live to be 100 years old. It is an incredible achievement but is it worth it? In 2013 I settled the score in the inaugural #DoUsAFlavor Lay’s potato chip competition. Do you remember the flavors of Chicken & Waffles, Sriracha, and Cheesy Garlic Bread? I made sure to sample each one and crown my favorite.

This is me in 2013 when I sampled all the flavors from the inaugural Lay’s #DoUsAFlavor potato chip promotion.

“Nerve” – On Sunday, I went to the movies with Sidney and my father-in-law. We went and saw a film called “Nerve.” The movie is about a real time social media themed game played on your iPhone that is based on dares. Think of it as Periscope meets Truth or Dare. It is definitely not a film for everyone. It is dark and twisted but also a little satisfying. “Nerve” also has an underlying message about the harm of anonymity on the web and on social media. I personally enjoyed the movie but I know a lot of other people won’t.

I saw the movie “Nerve” this past Sunday.

Fun Thursday Evening Ahead – Most of Sidney’s family is in Orlando visiting Disney World. However, the two of us plus my father-in-law stayed behind. Throughout this week the three of us have stuck together. Tonight our bonding continues as we have an exciting night planned. We will be dining at Longhorn Steakhouse, one of my favorite restaurants. After our meal, we will once again go to the movie theater, this time to see “Jason Bourne.” I am a little nervous because I have never seen the previous Bourne films. My hope is that I won’t be too lost. Expect a review in my next Thursday Rundown!

——————–

I hope everyone has a great weekend. Enjoy the festivities of tomorrow night’s opening ceremonies and I will touch base on Sunday. Don’t Blink.