Well, it is three weeks before Christmas, I hope you are managing any stress you might be feeling. It is my hope that this latest Thursday Rundown can be a welcome distraction for the next 10 minutes…

Tree Lighting – For the second year in a row, my family attended the Riverfront Park tree lighting. The event combined ice skating, caroling, hot chocolate-sipping, and Santa Claus greeting with the illumination of an impressive tree on the edge of the park. The occasion also allowed us to visit the Lego Store and ride the carousel. The holiday magic was definitely in the air.

Our family had a really nice time at the Riverfront Park tree lighting.

Domino’s Visit – My family eats Domino’s a lot…probably much more than we should. Normally, I pick it up by myself. Every now and then, we have it delivered. But rarely do my kids actually see inside the store where their pepperoni pizzas are made. I changed that on Thanksgiving Eve when I brought Sloan and Beau to our local Domino’s location. They had the chance to watch the pizza artists in action on a very busy night. I think when we ate that evening, the pizza might have tasted just a little better considering they got to see behind the scenes.

Beau and Sloan watch how pizza is made at our local Domino’s.

Netflix Recommendation – If I didn’t see the recommendation in the newspaper, I don’t think I ever would have watched “One of Them Days.” But since the column said the film was a great post-Thanksgiving meal option, Sid and I decided to give it a chance. Let me be honest with you, we laughed the whole way through. The movie stars Keke Palmer and SZA as they try to raise enough money in one hectic day to satisfy their rent payment. If you are looking for an option that doesn’t require all your brainpower and will put you in a better mood, give “One of Them Days” a chance.

Sid and I got a pretty good laugh out of “One Of Them Days.”

Simon Cowell – Much publicity was generated this week as Simon Cowell apologized for the insults he hurled at “American Idol” contestants during his time on the show from 2002-10. Cowell has definitely softened over the years and I think his consciousness got the best of him…which I consider a good thing. However, I don’t think all the blame falls on Simon’s shoulders. I watched portions of several “American Idol” seasons and I must admit that I found Cowell’s rants and put-downs to be extremely entertaining. It was the viewership and approval from people like me that aided Cowell and show producers to keep it coming. I need to apologize for being complicit, too.

I laughed right along with most of America at the insults delivered by Simon Cowell.

From The Archives – Just a few items to reminisce about. On this date four years ago, my family tried the viral Pepsi sensation Pilk for the first time. I would later write about the experience. After two ornament-related blog posts in a row, you are probably sick and tired of the topic but nine years ago I wrote about my five most-treasured ornaments on our Christmas tree. The following year I would write about an additional special five ornaments. Then, going back 11 years, I wrote about an extremely creative and unique tradition that my did carried on for my siblings and me. Fast forward to the present, and my dad is doing the same tradition for his grand kids.

Sloan trying Pilk. She claimed to like it.

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That will put a fork in the first Thursday Rundown of December. Thanks for reading and stay tuned for a rare Friday blog post coming your way tomorrow. Don’t Blink.