It is now the Lenten season and I hope things started right for you yesterday with Ash Wednesday. Let’s jump right into things with today’s five topics…

Valentine’s Date Recap – Sid and I had a promising night planned. We had a babysitter for the kids and were looking forward to an evening in downtown Spokane. We made reservations at 7 p.m. for a restaurant we really wanted to try. But by 8 p.m. we had yet to receive our food and with everyone else in our section in a similar boat, we decided to bow out as our movie (at least the previews) had already started. We watched “Good Luck, Have Fun, Don’t Die.” Sid and I both found the film to be creative and fun. Although we didn’t get the dinner we were looking forward to, the theater came through with chicken strips, mozzarella sticks, and of course popcorn.

My lovely Valentine’s Day date at the not-to-be-named restaurant where we had to walk out.

Goat – Speaking of movies, the day after our Valentine’s date, we returned to the theater—this time with our kids. We watched Steph Curry’s film, “Goat,” and found it very cute and entertaining. However, I don’t know if it was worth $90. For four matinee tickets (with two of them being children’s tickets), a popcorn, and two sodas we spent nearly $100. Although memories are priceless, the cost of going to the movies is getting out of control.

“Goat” was good but I don’t know if it was worth $90.

Deep Undercover – After reading a book about an American spy a few years ago, I decided to read a book about a Russian spy. “Deep Undercover” is about Jack Barsky, a German who was recruited by the Russians to work for the KGB. Barsky eventually went undercover in the United States but eventually embraced the American way of life and found God. The book is pretty interesting and a rather easy read. If you are interested in a good spy autobiography, “Deep Undercover” is for you.

“Deep Undercover” by Jack Barsky was pretty good.

Sumo Wrestling – This past weekend we were at an Asian culture festival when suddenly Beau found himself face-to-face with a sumo wrestler. This guy meant business and wasn’t going to let my son walk off the mat without a battle. In a true David vs. Goliath moment, Beau snatched victory. You can watch how it happened here. Trust me, it wasn’t rigged at all.

Beau sure was brave as he faced off against a sumo wrestler.

White Lotus – During the holiday season, we traded out our Hulu sports package for HBO Max. This allowed me to begin watching the critically-acclaimed “White Lotus” series. Last week, I completed the third season (a fourth season is set to be released soon). I was entertained by the wild storylines, great acting, and unique musical scores. Season one was my favorite with season three next on my list. Although Aubrey Plaza is one of my favorite actresses, season two—although still a good watch—is at the bottom of my list.

I recently finished up watching all the currently available “White Lotus” seasons. I find the series to be fresh and entertaining.

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Thanks for reading. I hope everyone has a great last weekend with the Winter Olympics. Don’t Blink.