It's All in the Family

This is Patrick, my youngest brother, also known as Dr. Yarnell, philosophy professor/chair at the University of Colorado, Colorado Springs, which means he's a pretty smart guy. I'm still trying to figure out when and how he got that way, because my memories of him as a child revolve around his love of Johnny Socko and the Flying Robot and Speed Racer, those annoying early Japanese cartoons. Thankfully, sometime after I left home, Patrick transitioned to nobler interests.

One thing that Patrick and I have in common is a desire for good grammar, with a corresponding disdain for poor grammar, so our conversations inevitably drift toward that subject. (Maybe it's because I can't dialogue with him on Moorean theories.) For some reason, we find twisted enjoyment in sharing our latest grammar pet peeves. Patrick came prepared for our recent family gathering. He brought along the book by Mignon Fogarty, Grammar Girl's Quick and Dirty Tips for Better Writing, based on the #1 ranked Grammar Girl Podcast. Patrick and I chose the most opportune time to discuss the book's contents...while we were on a road trip with a captive audience. No need to waste such valuable information!

I bought my own copy of the book, and I'm going to begin posting a weekly grammar tip on my blog. Not only will it help me sharpen my grammar usage, it will be therapeutic. I'm joining the cause to wipe out bad grammar. ; )