Is War of the Worlds Really That Bad?

So last week? Pretty laid back overall. I mean, I say “laid back,” but it was still a work week. Just a different pace. I started off in the office Monday, then flew up to Charlotte on Tuesday to spend a few days up there. The trip was mostly about shooting some new video content and, of course, catching up with the Charlotte team, making sure everything was running smoothly, knocking out meetings, all that good stuff.

Now, here’s something I noticed—after about an hour of filming, my voice was done. Completely shot. I don’t know if it’s just age creeping in, or if I need to start some weird honey and tea ritual like I’m about to perform at the Grammys. But after the first session, I needed a break. Later in the day, I could maybe manage a 30-minute shoot, and then one more short session after that. It's annoying because your brain's still going, but your voice is like, "Nah, we’re out."

And —no, I don’t smoke. I don’t do honey, tea, or throat spray either, though people have been recommending all three lately. If anyone has a fix for this “my voice gives up after 60 minutes” problem, I’m all ears. Comment, text me, carrier pigeon—whatever works.

When I go up to Charlotte, I usually stay in a condo in Midtown. It’s not fancy, but it’s got a gym, and it’s walking distance from a Publix and a Chipotle—basically everything I need. Chipotle is kind of my default dinner when I’m traveling: chicken, rice, and a little cheese. Simple, consistent, and won’t throw my stomach for a loop.

Usually, my first night there, I hit up the Publix and stock up on protein bars, shakes, and stuff for lunch—again, nothing fancy, just chicken and rice. But this time, I came prepared. Packed most of it ahead of time so I didn’t even have to make that grocery run. That’s a small win in my book.

I flew back to Atlanta Thursday evening and spent the rest of the week catching up on a few things. Weekend rolled around, and I was really looking forward to the UFC fights. If you’re a fan, you know how hit-or-miss those Fight Nights can be. Well, this one? Miss. Big time. I watched a few prelims, didn’t feel the energy building, and ended up calling it a night early. Didn’t even stay up for the main event—and I don’t regret it. Super underwhelming card.

Now here’s where things got weird (and kind of hilarious). At home, our dog Luna has this quirky habit—she likes to sneak into the laundry hamper, pull out dirty clothes, and lay them around the house. This week? She dragged out a pair of my pajama pants and set them up like a little doggy comfort blanket… in the bathroom.

And what’s weirder? Teddy, our other dog, who’s normally not into any of that, decided he was going to curl up right on top of them. It was like a little spa day for him—on my dirty clothes. I'm guessing it's a comfort thing? Maybe the scent makes them feel like we're nearby? If anyone out there actually knows why dogs do this, please share. I’ve heard everything from “pack behavior” to “they just like the smell of your sweat.” Either way, it’s kind of adorable, kind of gross, and very on-brand for our household.

We also made a quick weekend stop at the Lego store with Sam, who heads back to college soon. He wanted to check out what’s new, and it was just a good excuse to hang out. One of the more exciting finds? Lego flowers.

Now, these things are awesome—not just because they’re creative, but because I have allergies and she isn’t a fan of real flowers in the house. The boys discovered these a while back and now give them to her for holidays or just because. She loves them, they don’t make anyone sneeze, and they look pretty cool as a centerpiece. We found one we don’t have yet, so don’t be surprised if it shows up in the Christmas gift pile this year.

Here’s one that didn’t go as planned. When I go to a live UFC event—especially a big one with the boys—I usually buy the official signed poster. It’s just one of those traditions that brings back memories of the event. They usually arrive in a sturdy cardboard tube. No issues ever.

But the most recent one? The one from the Atlanta event? They sent it in this new, fancy-looking black tube. I’m thinking, “Wow, they’ve upgraded!” Until I opened it. The tube looked great, but the poster inside? Crinkled right in the middle. So now I’m dealing with return logistics and hoping we can get a replacement. Sometimes, Old Faithful cardboard really is the better choice over something flashy.

Oh—and before I forget: has anyone watched the new “War of the Worlds” on Netflix? I’ve been seeing the trailer pop up, and I recognize the lead actor from a few other projects, so I was tempted to give it a try. Then I saw that brutal 0% Rotten Tomatoes score and had second thoughts. Is it really that bad? Like, so bad it's good? Or just... bad-bad?

I do remember the Tom Cruise version from years back. Not super clearly, but I know he brought the usual high-energy action to it. Tough act to follow, honestly. I feel bad for anyone trying to remake a movie that starred Cruise at his prime—it’s a tall order.

That’s pretty much my week in a nutshell. Some work, some weird dog behavior, a UFC dud, and a crinkled poster. Life stuff. Hope everyone else had a good one, and if you’ve got tips on vocal endurance, Netflix watchlists, or dog psychology—drop me a line.

And if your week included a car wreck or injury and you’re not sure what to do next…

In pain, call Shane! 980-999-9999.
We’re here to help.