The news today is pretty grim, so I'm going with cheerful goofy links.

For example, why not critique the fashion choices in the Olympic Parade of Nations? A lot of Americans thought our team looked far too elitist and preppy, but there were also complaints about costumes from citizens of Australia, India, Malaysia, and several other nations. (Who chose Hungary's color scheme, anyway? White dresses with red flowers all over them? Really?)

Street performing, for those not in the know, is damned hard work. So is being a magician -- scientists are now studying the neuroscience behind their illusions.

Cats like cardboard. They also like sitting on things. Ergo, a cardboard cat chaise lounge is a brilliant idea, and here's how you can make your own!

Accordions are cool again. Thanks, They Might Be Giants! (They're not mentioned in the article, but they should be.)

And finally, speaking of music, here's a wonderful index of all the musical guests on Sesame Street though the years. Enjoy!