Pope spares a thought for crucified frogs everywhere

I was fascinated to read that the Pope has been criticising the work of art below as blasphemous.

Local politician Franz Pahl has even gone on hunger strike to protest at the piece, and ended up in hospital.

Why does the head of a major religion have time for this nonsense? Is he concerned about frogs everywhere suffering at the hands of copycat killers? Apparently not, the official reason for outrage is as follows:

[the sculpture] "wounds the religious sentiments of so many people who see in the cross the symbol of God's love"

I'm not aware that wounded sentiments are a diagnosable medical condition, so I'd have to say that the actual damage caused by this sculpture is pretty close to zero. I wish people would take more notice of PZ Myers. As he so eloquently framed the great host desecration debate last month, "IT'S A FRACKIN’ CRACKER!", or in this case "It's a frackin' painted wooden frog!".

So please your popiness, stop getting excited about this trivia, and do something constructive instead. How about slowing down the spread of AIDS in Africa by recommending condom use? Now that could actually save lives and make you seem less like an irrelevant old fart...

A Walk up Ticknock Hill

Although tired after his exertions on Dublin Bay, Liam agreed upon his return to come along with my dad, Heike, Davnet, Doireann, Rosalie and Alannah for a walk up to the TV mast on Ticknock Hill.

As is clear from the pictures below, Liam also managed to scramble up a few rock formations together with his very responsible grandfather...

Liam tries out sailing with his grandfather

We extended our weekend in Dublin until Monday, so that we could do a little more than run straight to the airport after Saturday's festivities. Specifically, Liam and I joined my father for a trip on his boat around Dublin Bay.

The sun managed to make a short guest appearance at the appropriate time, and the wind was a very gentle breeze, which made it perfect sailing weather for a three-year-old.

Rosalie senior celebrates her birthday

The Heidelberg branch of the Cassidy clan travelled to Dublin last weekend to join assorted sisters, nieces, nephews and cousins all celebrating Rosalie senior's 70th birthday.

A highlight was the cake which Fiona organised - it was made up of a collage of photos of my mother during her lifetime.

Rosalie on her new Puky Wutsch

Heike has pointed out to me that I have neglected to post a photo of Rosalie on her new Puky Wutsch, so here it is.

Yes, she was as delighted to use it as she looks. For those who are not yet familiar with Puky's fine products I can heartily recommend them. Liam has the Laufrad, bicycle and tricycle, and has had enormous fun with all three. The Wutsch is great for kids who are even too small for the trike, and will keep Rosalie busy for a while yet.