Total Serious Happy Thread

[CoasterMatt]

Got in a little bit ago from the opening night of Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios. Didn't expect to go, very last minute thing. This is the start of our 10th wedding anniversary SPOOKtacular...

[JWBear]

McRIBS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D

[Gn2Dlnd]

I wonder what those slabs of ©McMeat are like NOT dredged in bbq sauce (don't want the sugar), WITHOUT the bread (wheat issues), and absent the pickles and onions (just plain hate 'em).

I suspect they need all that camouflage.

[CoasterMatt]

Bike is gonna be mine- FRIDAY!

[BarTopDancer]

I wonder what those slabs of ©McMeat are like NOT dredged in bbq sauce (don't want the sugar), WITHOUT the bread (wheat issues), and absent the pickles and onions (just plain hate 'em).

I suspect they need all that camouflage.

http://www.foodfacts.info/mcrib/

[Morrigoon]

...the other white meat.

[CoasterMatt]

McFecal Matter.

[JWBear]

I don't care what you all say, I still love them. You can't kill the bliss!

[mousepod]

My office is downwind from a McDonald's. At the moment, the McRib smell is almost enough to make this bacon lover a vegetarian.

[Cadaverous Pallor]

I wonder what those slabs of ©McMeat are like NOT dredged in bbq sauce (don't want the sugar), WITHOUT the bread (wheat issues), and absent the pickles and onions (just plain hate 'em).

I suspect they need all that camouflage.You could always buy one and give it a good scrub.

[Gn2Dlnd]

http://www.foodfacts.info/mcrib/
So, leaving off the bun, sauce, & "veggies" gets you: McRib Patty: Boneless pork (Pork, water, salt, dextrose, citric acid, BHA, TBHQ) which, smell from Jesse's office notwithsanding, ain't all that bad. And don't bother telling me that TBHQ is a form of butane, 'cause it's like saying table salt is a form of chlorine.

You could always buy one and give it a good scrub.

I already scrubbed my other white meat this morning. :blush:

[CoasterMatt]

I got my bike TODAY! :D

YAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA AAAAAAY!!!

Non scientific study suggests I can scream louder than the bell on my bike.

[Morrigoon]

I'm pretty sure any scientific study would back that assertion up :) Congrats on the bike!

[innerSpaceman]

Yay for the bike. Boo for the mornings without musical selection tweets from the bus. ;)

[Snowflake]

Doctor visit (first in 5 years, my bad) yielded the following info: BP 125 over 75 and 8 lbs lighter. The downward trend continues. Hooray.

This happiness my be revised once the bloodwork comes back if there's anything lousy to report.

[lashbear]

I already scrubbed my other white meat this morning. :blush:
VG2DLM !! :snap:

[Ghoulish Delight]

Successfully pulled off a radical living room rearrangement.

I like it so far. Theo's going to be pretty surprised in the morning.

[Morrigoon]

Dead curious.... do we get a photo at some point?

[Morrigoon]

Starting to get to that "uncomfortable" point... with that said, today marks one month till my due date!

[lashbear]

We took half a Ton of stuff from the garage to the waste management centre today. Took two loads and nearly $90 in tip fees, but it was worth it. I feel lighter.

[Snowflake]

Got on the scale this morning, down 7 lbs! Which means this year down nearly 50lbs! I've dropped at least one size in clothing, I think nearly 2 sizes as the pants are getting more than roomy. This carb watching and exercise is working wonders! BS has been much better, too. Although I can't figure out how it can be 116 when I go to bed and 145 when I get up in the morning.

[katiesue]

Your blood sugars rise overnight because you're not doing any activity. During the day even if you're not exercising you're typing or turning the page in a book or whatever and that all burns a certain amount of carbs. At night even though you're not completely stationary you use a lot less carbs than when you're awake. Maddie's insulin rate at night is almost double what it is during the day to compensate for this.

And congratulations on the weight loss!

[Morrigoon]

This makes me doubt my GD diagnosis even more... my BS is ALWAYS fine in the morning, like between 80-90.

[katiesue]

VDMV (Your Diabetes May Vary) is the common phrase on T1 boards. Every person has different issues. Not waking up high does not mean you don't have GD.

[Ghoulish Delight]

Not waking up high does not mean you don't have GD.It does mean you didn't smoke enough.

Also....STOP CALLING IT GD.

[Kevy Baby]

...my BS is ALWAYS fine in the morning...My BS is fine all the time!




Oh... you were talking about blood sugar?

[Snowflake]

Your blood sugars rise overnight because you're not doing any activity. During the day even if you're not exercising you're typing or turning the page in a book or whatever and that all burns a certain amount of carbs. At night even though you're not completely stationary you use a lot less carbs than when you're awake. Maddie's insulin rate at night is almost double what it is during the day to compensate for this.

And congratulations on the weight loss!

Thanks Katie. I'm encouraged.

I really appreciate all your advice and such, it's been really helpful!

Of course, YDMV, but the last couple of days I've had a much better handle on the BS and taking care with what I am eating. After all, what we're aiming for right now is stabilizing it as much as possible.

Only sucky thing is am I am now a recovering bread addict. ;)

[katiesue]

Fingers crossed. Dukie has a vet check tomorrow if he passes he'll finally have a new home.

[alphabassettgrrl]

Good luck to Dukie!

[Snowflake]

Fingers crossed. Dukie has a vet check tomorrow if he passes he'll finally have a new home.

Good luck to Dukie (and the final sale Katie)!

[Ghoulish Delight]

Semester #1 of 5 is complete!

[CoasterMatt]

I spent a good chunk of afternoon at Universal with my new camera and rented lens - check out these pics (http://www.flickr.com/photos/coastermatt/sets/72157628451061095/), and lemme know what you think

[alphabassettgrrl]

Semester #1 of 5 is complete!

Congratulations! What are you studying?

[lashbear]

Beautiful pics - what lens did you rent and why and what does it do (I sensed a bit of widescreen type thingy effect in there...)

[CoasterMatt]

I rented a Nikon 10-24mm lens - it is an extra wide angle lens, perfect for landscapes and interiors. I'll only have it for a week, until I can save up for the $900 purchase price. Tomorrow is Disneyland day :)

[lashbear]

$900 ?? Eek !

If you're going into DCA, Is it possible to get a couple of panorama pics of WWOC for me?

[CoasterMatt]

I didn't get a chance to head to World of Color, bear- but I'm going to save my nickels and dimes (and a quite a few more dollars), and some time next year buy this lens.

[JWBear]

I was told today that I'm getting the position I put in for! Not a promotion, but a lateral transfer to a quasi IT/software support position in my building.

Happy, happy, joy, joy!

[katiesue]

Congratulations JW!

[Moonliner]

I was told today that I'm getting the position I put in for! Not a promotion, but a lateral transfer to a quasi IT/software support position in my building.

Happy, happy, joy, joy!

I am now doing the Dance of Joy on your behalf.

[CoasterMatt]

I got somebody their job back.

[alphabassettgrrl]

Nice!

[Morrigoon]

I got somebody their job back.

Awesome, congrats! :)

[lashbear]

Just got an email saying my Kindle has shipped..... can't wait !!!! First thing I'm doing is loading it up with all of Imogen Edwards-Jones' novels ! :cool:

[Betty]

I was told today that I'm getting the position I put in for! Not a promotion, but a lateral transfer to a quasi IT/software support position in my building.

Happy, happy, joy, joy!

Right on!:snap:

[JWBear]

The worst part of this transfer thing is that my unit is not happy. They're all giving me looks as if I had cooked and eaten their grandmothers for lunch.

At least no one is crying.

[cirquelover]

I think it's because they are going to miss you and the good work you do!

I hope this new position is everything you want it to be! Congrats

[Kevy Baby]

Just got an email saying my Kindle has shipped..... can't wait !!!! First thing I'm doing is loading it up with all of Imogen Edwards-Jones' novels ! :cool:You have to load Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy (http://www.amazon.com/Hitchhikers-Guide-Galaxy-ebook/dp/B000XUBC2C/ref=sr_1_2?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1326219617&sr=1-2) on.

[Morrigoon]

Don't forget all the great free books they have for Kindle!

[JWBear]

You have to load Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy (http://www.amazon.com/Hitchhikers-Guide-Galaxy-ebook/dp/B000XUBC2C/ref=sr_1_2?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1326219617&sr=1-2) on.

That made me think... Someone out there must have a Kindle cover with "DON'T PANIC" in large friendly letters on the front. (If so, it's mine!)

[Alex]

Don't forget all the great free books they have for Kindle!

But only four of them are worth reading. Finding them is the game.

[Moonliner]

That made me think... Someone out there must have a Kindle cover with "DON'T PANIC" in large friendly letters on the front. (If so, it's mine!)

http://imgs.xkcd.com/comics/kindle.png

And yes. They have (http://www.amazon.com/MyCase-Panic-Jacket-Cover-Folio/dp/B0043SW08K).





(Yeah, technically that's for the iPad but if you can't make it work for you, you don't deserve to carry your own towel)

[Morrigoon]

That made me think... Someone out there must have a Kindle cover with "DON'T PANIC" in large friendly letters on the front. (If so, it's mine!)

Actually I made just such a one :)

[Betty]

I love the description for the Don't Panic cover.

The MyCase "Don't Panic" is a wholly remarkable case. I should note, however, that there are many things that this case cannot do: It cannot repel an attack of hyper-intelligent killer dolphins; Nor can it make you a mixed drink; And you would have a hard time trying to use it as a fire extinguisher.

While it does lack many of these more "refined" traits, it does have two key attributes which place it far ahead of its competition: first, it is slightly cheaper and, second, it has the words "Don't Panic" written in large, friendly letters the cover.

With most people's luck, that kinda stuff is bound to happen far more often than they'd like. When it does, wouldn't it be great to know that one could just look down to their iPad case and get an instant, refreshing dose of sanity?

[Morrigoon]

Finally stepped on a scale for the first time since Peanut's birth. 25 pounds lighter than I was this time last year! :) (Pregnancy=best diet ever? Who'd have thunk it?)

[alphabassettgrrl]

Nursing is also supposed to be a great boost to losing weight. So if you wanted to drop some more, I'd say now is the time to take walks, or do whatever is active that you like.

[lashbear]

But only four of them are worth reading. Finding them is the game.

I'm tempted to ask you what they are... or do I have to suffer the inconsolable depression of having to drudge through the dross to find the gold?

[Alex]

I offer know help. I haven't yet found a free book worth reading. But I'm assured there are four.

(I guess I should caveat that in my mind I am separating "relatively recent and offered for free" from "old enough to be in the public domain.")

Though if you like self published crappy science fiction, crappy romance novels, or religious self help books then it is a treasure trove.

[Morrigoon]

and older books that are out of copyright, such as the autobiography of Benjamin Franklin, the various works of Jack London, all your Jane Austen favorites...

[Alex]

Those are in the "public domain" category. They've always been free to read regardless of Kindle technology and without Amazon's involvement.

I'm just saying, if it is a book published in the last 70 years and is available for free from Amazon, it is 99.999% likely to be complete crap.

[lashbear]

I will test the theory tonight - UPS just called and the Kindle will be delivered today sometime after 1pm.. YAY !!

[alphabassettgrrl]

Enjoy your new toy, Lash!

[Morrigoon]

Those are in the "public domain" category. They've always been free to read regardless of Kindle technology and without Amazon's involvement.

I'm just saying, if it is a book published in the last 70 years and is available for free from Amazon, it is 99.999% likely to be complete crap.

Probably. But I only really cared about the public domain stuff. I have, however, gotten good deals on decent books by following Amazon Kindle on Facebook. They have a deal of the day, usually 80-90% off regular kindle price (so like $1-$3), and not always on crap. Got "Water For Elephants" super cheap that way.

[Alex]

Water for Elephants is, sorry to say (and obviously just in my opinion) not one of the four.

[lashbear]

I have, however, gotten good deals on decent books by following Amazon Kindle on Facebook. They have a deal of the day, usually 80-90% off regular kindle price (so like $1-$3), and not always on crap. Got "Water For Elephants" super cheap that way.

Thanks for the tip !! :cool:

[Morrigoon]

Never would've imagined that less than 3 weeks after giving birth, I'd be fitting *comfortably* back into my size 18 jeans :)

[cirquelover]

Woohoo! I remember it made me feel like my old self when I got back into regular clothes.

[Morrigoon]

This is better than my old self... I was firmly in 20's this time last year! I'm back in my old clothes, but they're all floating on me :)

[cirquelover]

That's really great!

I won't worry as long as you're still eating and staying healthy.

I caught the flu and that was how I shed the pregnancy weight so quickly. I do not recommend that!

[wendybeth]

Morri- I am so happy that you are doing so well, and that Amelia is finally here! I love seeing your pics on FB- they make me smile.

I came home from a surprise party for our Aunt Audrey today, only to find a surprise for me! (And Tori....) Eric, who had bowed out of attending the party under the pretense (and very predictably) that it was an 'Estrogen Fest', had arranged for the delivery of one 2001 Grand Jeep Cherokee, which we had previously discussed purchasing from my Bro-in-law and sis, but so far as I knew hadn't gone any further.....This was one of the first cars ToriBear has driven, and when Vicki and Dave said they wanted to upgrade to a new version, we threw our names in the hat, but with the tumult of the holidays we (I) hadn't given it much thought. It is in excellent condition, top of the line, low miles, has BUTT WARMERS! and is completely non- Vegan approved. (Leather seats). Awesome rig, and they even bought all new tires for it, knowing that their niece would be eventually driving it once she got her license. We are happy campers, and while I am mystified as to why Eric was so proactive in this purchase, I am choosing to not look the proverbial gift horse in the mouth. (That's his dentist's job....) It's supposed to snow tomorrow- bring it on! :snap:

[cirquelover]

I bet that Jeep is coming in handy with all this snow!


The teenager no longer has braces!! I think he ate himself silly last night with all the treats he could'nt have for the last few years.
It is perfect timing, the winter formal is coming up and he has a date, white tux and a limo! He is one happy teenager, which is rare for a teenager!!

[Ghoulish Delight]

The teenager no longer has braces!! I think he ate himself silly last night with all the treats he could'nt have for the last few years.
It was ribs, corn on the cob, and popcorn for me.

[cirquelover]

We are going out for ribs and corn on the cob later in the week, when his favorite place is open. He had popcorn, bit o honey and caramel twix last night. His Ortho Doc gives you a bag with sparkling cider, Tootsie rolls, starburst, bubble gum and popcorn!

[katiesue]

Maddie's was gum and laffy taffy. And as much popcorn as she could possibly stuff down.

[Ghoulish Delight]

Sparkling cider?

[cirquelover]

As a celebration kind of thing, can't exactly give kids champagne. He was stoked because he " finally had his own bottle of sparkling cider!". Kids are strange.

[Ghoulish Delight]

Ah, got it. I thought somehow sparking cider was on his banned foods list and couldn't figure out why.

[Kevy Baby]

Kids are strange.And then we all grew up to be strange adults.

[alphabassettgrrl]

Congrats to the little guy for being done with braces!

[Snowflake]

W2's arrived early, did taxes, filed and awaiting refund(s), in record time. Enough the splurge on something for the apartment and pay off 1 credit card. Squee!

[Ghoulish Delight]

Gotta get started on that. I think almost everything I need is accessible electronically.

I was reminded yesterday that state tax refunds are taxable. That is such utter bullsh*t.

[Moonliner]

W2's arrived early, did taxes, filed and awaiting refund(s), in record time. Enough the splurge on something for the apartment and pay off 1 credit card. Squee!

Getting a big tax refund is just you providing an interest free loan to the federal and/or state government. You might want to think about adjusting your withholding's for 2012.

[katiesue]

Getting a big tax refund is just you providing an interest free loan to the federal and/or state government. You might want to think about adjusting your withholding's for 2012.

Having been hosed on taxes multiple times for various reasons, I'd rather give them an interest free loan than have to come up with a large amount I didn't plan on.

(Maddie's Dad was notorious for filling out the with-holding wrong and we'd end up screwed. An employer forgot to withhold anything to the state one year. Unexpected unemployment)

[Alex]

Gotta get started on that. I think almost everything I need is accessible electronically.

I was reminded yesterday that state tax refunds are taxable. That is such utter bullsh*t.

Why? It should only be taxed if you claimed local taxes paid as a deduction last year and then got a refund. That refund means you took too large of a deduction and had additional never taxed income this year (the refund). Makes sense that you'd have to correct for that.

If you didn't deduct local taxes last year, your refund won't be taxed this year.

[Ghoulish Delight]

Ah, that makes sense. I don't think I took a deduction, but I'll have to look carefully at last year's and see.

[Alex]

According to FTB you should receive a 1099-G from (https://www.ftb.ca.gov/individuals/faq/net/908.shtml) them if you did claim taxes as a deduction and then received a refund.

(Of course, you should probably not rely on receiving something to know what you owe.)

[Kevy Baby]

Getting a big tax refund is just you providing an interest free loan to the federal and/or state government. You might want to think about adjusting your withholding's for 2012.As opposed to the .25% interest I could be making in a savings account? I would rather have the padding and get a small windfall every year than to have to write a check on April 15.

[Snowflake]

Getting a big tax refund is just you providing an interest free loan to the federal and/or state government. You might want to think about adjusting your withholding's for 2012.

I hear you, but, I've never been known to be a whiz when it comes to smart finances.

As a single person more often than not, I always seem to get hosed at tax time. I have a little extra taken out through the year, just in case.

Maybe this year I will adjust that, I'm just as happy to break even. I just hate coming up with oodles of extra dough if I screw something up.

[Moonliner]

As opposed to the .25% interest I could be making in a savings account? I would rather have the padding and get a small windfall every year than to have to write a check on April 15.

Don't forget to add in the finance charges on the credit card balance.

I use smartypig.com (http://www.smartypig.com/) to move a small amount each month so I still get the "windfall". In fact (true story) my 2011 balance is paying for my trip to DLR next month.

[Betty]

My second mammogram still showed a spot on my right boob. Had an ultrasound done and they said it is lymph tissue and benign.

Yay!

[Ghoulish Delight]

w00t!

Now you can go about switching your provider around to someone who WOULD have given you what you needed if it hadn't come back benign in a much more relaxed fashion.

[cirquelover]

That is great news!

[Prudence]

Extra double yay with yay sauce!

[Not Afraid]

Yay!!!

[Kevy Baby]

Happy Boobs!

[Strangler Lewis]

Great news, Betty!

[lindyhop]

ETA mid-June: Orion becomes a big brother and I get a new granddaughter!

:) :) :) :) :) :) :)

[Ghoulish Delight]

Mazel tov!

[Ghoulish Delight]

Today I suddenly remembered that around this time last year, I cashed in some vacation time (which would go to waste anyway as I approach the limit of what I can accrue and we aren't doing any long-duration vacationing right now) and purchased our annual passes.

Which means we can do the same again! Huzzah!

[Not Afraid]

Now you tell me.

[Ghoulish Delight]

Well it's not happening until February, so it's not instant.

[Betty]

I am out of laundry soap. What a shame I can't do laundry today.

[wendybeth]

I'm so sorry, Betty! Now you're just going to have to grab some bon-bons and spend some quality time couch luge-ing. :D

[lashbear]

Dishwashing liquid works just as good.....

[Ghoulish Delight]

Well it only took two trips to Compton, but we have a brand new gigantor TV.

It's puurrdy. 55" LG LED. Perfect size for our room and makes our 40" look like a toy. And it happens to be a 3D tv. We weren't looking for a 3D TV but it was the best deal by far. Passive, so it's not the bulky expensive glasses. And it's go the fakey 2D->3D mode which we just tried with the Kinect Disneyland game...which was surprisingly cool!

The only downside is some glare off the orange wall opposite it. Going to have to consider draping it or painting it a more neutral color.

[CoasterMatt]

Enjoy it. Looks like I might be moving up soon. 62" screen doesn't quite fill the space the way it used to ;)

[Alex]

This aspect of Fahrenheit 451 comes ever closer to fruition.

TV size seems to be where I am going to be the old man left behind by the times. We've had it for four years and I still look at our 36" TV from the couch 7 feet away and wonder "Do I really need something that big?"

But when interactive soap operas come along I'm going to splurge for the second wall.

[Ghoulish Delight]

We could have gone 60" for cheaper, but 55" definitely feels like the limit for our room. A 60" wouldn't physically fit well in the room. On top of that, sitting in front of the 55" I can tell that any bigger and I wouldn't be able to watch anything without having to pan-and-scan with my eyes.

So far the biggest benefit can be seen with the xBox. I can actually read all the text from the couch without squinting or scooting forward! I will never understand, however, what manufacturers are thinking with their preset "game" picture modes. Not one TV I've owned that had that setting have video games look any good in it.

I'm off to Fry's today to grab the one extra HDMI cable I need to hook up the new receiver. Nothing fancy, just a 500W Yamaha. Haven't even added any speakers yet, sticking with just our 2 Kenwood floor boxes that do a find job of filling our room. Maybe come birthday time we'll consider adding channels.

I spent a while debating whether I cared whether any of the AV components (TV, blueray, or receiver) was "smart" (i.e., internet connected with streaming apps built in). It felt stupid to get a brand new system that lacked such a forward-looking feature. But with a real computer connected to the TV I just can't see the point in worrying about whether my TV had slow, featureless apps that I can't even use a keyboard to input with. That made shopping much easier since we didn't have to compare any of the connected options between models and in the end we ended up with zero connectivity (actually, I think the BlueRay player can connect for firmware updates).

[Ghoulish Delight]

I'm off to Fry's today to grab the one extra HDMI cable I need to hook up the new receiver.

Which reminds me, can anyone give me some pros and cons of running all my components through the receiver then to the TV vs. running components to the TV and optical audio out from the TV to the receiver? Or a mix (e.g., I've read that some receivers have issues synching game system video, so perhaps I should put the BlueRay, TiVo, and cpu through the receiver but the xbox through the TV)? TOO MANY OPTIONS.

I'm going to stock up on all the cables I need to do any of the possible combinations, just so keep things flexible.

[alphabassettgrrl]

We've got everything run to the receiver, and out to the tv. The advantage I see is that all the connection cables are short, and only run long run needs to go up to the tv.

[Moonliner]

Which reminds me, can anyone give me some pros and cons of running all my components through the receiver then to the TV vs. running components to the TV and optical audio out from the TV to the receiver? Or a mix (e.g., I've read that some receivers have issues synching game system video, so perhaps I should put the BlueRay, TiVo, and cpu through the receiver but the xbox through the TV)? TOO MANY OPTIONS.

I'm going to stock up on all the cables I need to do any of the possible combinations, just so keep things flexible.

On the "con" side, it means you have to have your receiver powered up and set to the correct input anytime you want to watch TV. At least in my house this has a low WAF. I had to add a learning remote to the mix.



WAF = (Wife Approval Factor)

[Ghoulish Delight]

Oh, we've already got a Harmony. Component power and input switching issues are non-issues.

So I'm gathering it's more about cabling/setup/ease-of-use convenience more than performance/capability concerns?

[Morrigoon]

Alex got the job! The GOOD job!

[Moonliner]

Oh, we've already got a Harmony. Component power and input switching issues are non-issues.

So I'm gathering it's more about cabling/setup/ease-of-use convenience more than performance/capability concerns?

It depends on, well a lot of things....

How are you connecting the speakers you have?
What type of sound processing capability does your receiver have?
What else (if anything) is connected? Wii, PS3, BluRay, Tivo, etc?

If you have a lot of gear, then routing all it through the receiver is the way to go. Or if the receiver has better sound decoders then again that's what you will want to do.

On the other hand, older receivers may not be able to pass 3D video or the latest sound formats (dolby digital or truHD, etc...).

How loud do you want to play? The receiver should be better at pumping up the jam.

[Moonliner]

Alex got the job! The GOOD job!

Double Woot! Woot! Toot!!!

[Betty]

Yay Morrigoon!

[Ghoulish Delight]

It depends on, well a lot of things....

How are you connecting the speakers you have?
What type of sound processing capability does your receiver have?
What else (if anything) is connected? Wii, PS3, BluRay, Tivo, etc?

If you have a lot of gear, then routing all it through the receiver is the way to go. Or if the receiver has better sound decoders then again that's what you will want to do.

On the other hand, older receivers may not be able to pass 3D video or the latest sound formats (dolby digital or truHD, etc...).

How loud do you want to play? The receiver should be better at pumping up the jam.

Speakers will be connected to the receiver's front channel, speaker wire. It's a 5.1 receiver, but like I said we only have the 2 cabinet speakers for the time being. It's 3d-ready and brand new, so i gotta imagine the audio processing is just fine (TrueHD, HD). We've got 4 hdmi devices (BlueRay, TiVo, CPU, and XBOX). That's it.

[katiesue]

Alex got the job! The GOOD job!

Congratulations!

[Moonliner]

Speakers will be connected to the receiver's front channel, speaker wire. It's a 5.1 receiver, but like I said we only have the 2 cabinet speakers for the time being. It's 3d-ready and brand new, so i gotta imagine the audio processing is just fine (TrueHD, HD). We've got 4 hdmi devices (BlueRay, TiVo, CPU, and XBOX). That's it.

Ah. For some reason I thought the receiver was an older model.

If you route the sound via the receiver and send video direct to the TV you are likely to get timing issues between the two where everything sounds like a badly dubbed Japanese film. So I would definitely use the receiver for what's it made for, being the hub of your AV world. Hook everything up to it, program the harmony and enjoy.

Hint:
I don't know about the Yammy, but on my Denon I can re-name the inputs to better match the device. (ie "Xbox" rather than "game")

If younglings can reach the volume knob you might want to see if the receiver has a volume limiter and set it to a reasonable level.

[Ghoulish Delight]

If younglings can reach the volume knob you might want to see if the receiver has a volume limiter and set it to a reasonable level. Or do what we do with our current old receiver and remove the knob* :)

Meanwhile
I have never noticed the "INDENT" vb tag


Also meanwhile
Good news 'goon!



* ETA: Aww, it jsut occurred to me T is going to be bummed that we're taking away the old receiver. The volume knob was off, but we let him twiddle the fader/bass/treble knobs and eq sliders. Hmm, I've been looking for a good excuse to buy and arduino and put something with knobs, sliders, and LEDs together...

[Snowflake]

Good news for Alex and Goonie (and little Amelia) hooray!

[alphabassettgrrl]

GD, my hubby says stuff-into-receiver vs stuff-into-tv is mostly preference, as well as how close your stuff is to receiver or tv. Our stuff is in a cabinet on the floor, ten feet from the tv, so it works better for us to plug everything into the receiver and then run it to the tv. If you had an entertainment center with everything together, it may make more sense to run it all to the tv. Depends on how the cabling can run, that kind of thing.

Congrats, Goon!

[Kevy Baby]

On the "con" side, it means you have to have your receiver powered up and set to the correct input anytime you want to watch TV.One of the things I like about our receiver (http://usa.yamaha.com/products/audio-visual/aventage/rx-a1000_black__u/) is that it has a Standby Through mode which allows the HDMI signal to pass through without the receiver being on

[CoasterMatt]

On the "con" side, it means you have to have your receiver powered up and set to the correct input anytime you want to watch TV. At least in my house this has a low WAF. I had to add a learning remote to the mix.



WAF = (Wife Approval Factor)


Not necessarily true, depending on the TV and receiver- an HDMI 1.4 spec setup with audio return, you don't have to have everything turned on to watch tv. It's called standby bypass on our receiver.

[Kevy Baby]

Our 11-disc Blu Ray collection of all eight Harry Potter movies that I ordered from Amazon UK for only $48 just arrived today. Thanks to Coaster Matt for the tip!

[Moonliner]

Not necessarily true, depending on the TV and receiver- an HDMI 1.4 spec setup with audio return, you don't have to have everything turned on to watch tv. It's called standby bypass on our receiver.

And use the tv's built in speakers? No thanks.

[lashbear]

I turn the dial on my CRT TV and the channel changes !!!

[Ghoulish Delight]

Oh dear. We just tried a DVD (upscaled, we don't own any BluRay). We started with LotR:FotR.

If there is a divorce, philosophical differences over the motion-smoothing technology, or whatever LG calls it (TruMotion?), will be the most likely culprit.

[Morrigoon]

Now that Alex has a job, and is going to be away a LoT, it was finally time to fix his phone issues (his 6-year old phone was about to DIE), which meant he hopped over to Verizon with me, AND... we both got new iPhones!

Been waiting a looooooong time for that. Sort of a belated Christmas gift to ourselves, since at the time we had other concerns ;)

[Cadaverous Pallor]

Oh dear. We just tried a DVD (upscaled, we don't own any BluRay). We started with LotR:FotR.

If there is a divorce, philosophical differences over the motion-smoothing technology, or whatever LG calls it (TruMotion?), will be the most likely culprit.That was a pretty epic debate.

As it stands, I'm ceding that the TruMotion thing doesn't work too well when the camera moves, and that it's bad enough to make the good part not so good. I really wish that aspect were better, since the feeling of realism is very appealing to me. I'd rather be "in the movie" than watching a movie.

[Ghoulish Delight]

I really wish that aspect were better, since the feeling of realism is very appealing to me. I'd rather be "in the movie" than watching a movie.So would I - it's just that to me, the motion picture makes it look like I'm watching actors, not characters.

[Kevy Baby]

Ya know, this debate belongs in the First World problems thread :)

[lindyhop]

My new second favorite* band is Icy Hot Club (http://www.icyhotclub.com/). They play Gypsy Jazz which means lots of Django Reinhardt but also all sorts of other songs arranged in that style. I love the style because it's the best thing for dancing Balboa but it's great for listening too because their arrangements are so creative. They do "Johnny Be Good" but make it "Django Be Good" and manage to make rhymes out of Alice Cooper and stormtrooper in "Puttin' on the Ritz."

They also do a version of the theme from Aladdin and Saturday night they did a Gypsy Jazz version of "Billie Jean" that was amazing and weird. I love these guys.



*My first favorite band is still Stompy Jones. I can't throw them over after all this time and they play a bigger variety of songs.

[Alex]

Is TruMotion te reason all the BluRay demos at stores have the movies looking like crappy Saturday morning CGI cartoons from 1993?

In Best Buy last week The Kings Soeech managed to look like bad animation.

[Ghoulish Delight]

Yep, that's the one. And that's exactly my feeling about it. It makes it so a movie doesn't read as film, it reads as video. Watching Fellowship felt like I was watching a day time soap.

[Not Afraid]

My new second favorite* band is Icy Hot Club (http://www.icyhotclub.com/). They play Gypsy Jazz which means lots of Django Reinhardt but also all sorts of other songs arranged in that style. I love the style because it's the best thing for dancing Balboa but it's great for listening too because their arrangements are so creative. They do "Johnny Be Good" but make it "Django Be Good" and manage to make rhymes out of Alice Cooper and stormtrooper in "Puttin' on the Ritz."

They also do a version of the theme from Aladdin and Saturday night they did a Gypsy Jazz version of "Billie Jean" that was amazing and weird. I love these guys.



*My first favorite band is still Stompy Jones. I can't throw them over after all this time and they play a bigger variety of songs.

OMG! Love it!

[Ghoulish Delight]

Sweet! Best Buy apparently dropped the price of our new TV the day after we bought it...and credited us the difference automatically.

[Disneyphile]

So, I got laid off at the old sinking ship and was offered a position elsewhere just 6 days later at a creative marketing company.

The new place rocks. I'm making double of what I did at the old place, the environment is awesome, the people are incredible, and the best part - I'm surrounded by nothing but creative peeps all day long who share my lingo. It's pure heaven. :)

[lashbear]

YAY !

[CoasterMatt]

A person who's bought a couple of prints of my pictures, sent me an email today asking for a shipping address. He's sending me a Nikon 70-300mm VR lens- it's worth about 600 bucks; as a "thank you and encouragement to further your photographic skills"

:eek: WOW!!!

[Kevy Baby]

WOW! That's cool

[lashbear]

Obviously someone who recognises talent when he sees it. Congrats, Matt !

[alphabassettgrrl]

Nice, Matt!

[Cadaverous Pallor]

:eek: WOW!!!WOW!!! is right! Congrats on awesomeness!

Where do you sell your stuff again?

[Moonliner]

A person who's bought a couple of prints of my pictures, sent me an email today asking for a shipping address. He's sending me a Nikon 70-300mm VR lens- it's worth about 600 bucks; as a "thank you and encouragement to further your photographic skills"

:eek: WOW!!!

I second that, Wow!.

[CoasterMatt]

New center channel arrived today- heavier than our couch. It's in it's new home, and ain't going anywhere.

[CoasterMatt]

I've said it on Facebook, where all sorts of people (for better or worse) can read it, but it's so TRUE- especially for the wonderful people here (you too, Kevy); my friends kick all kinds of ass. Thank you.

[Betty]

So, I got laid off at the old sinking ship and was offered a position elsewhere just 6 days later at a creative marketing company.

The new place rocks. I'm making double of what I did at the old place, the environment is awesome, the people are incredible, and the best part - I'm surrounded by nothing but creative peeps all day long who share my lingo. It's pure heaven. :)

Wow! Dream come true. I'm excited for you. Send me some of your good mojo.

[Moonliner]

New center channel arrived today- heavier than our couch. It's in it's new home, and ain't going anywhere.

One of these? (http://emotiva.com/xrc52.shtm)

[CoasterMatt]

One of these? (http://emotiva.com/xrc52.shtm)

Nope - one of these. (http://www.klipsch.com/product/65527.6921.75855.0.0/1000826/_/RC-64) in Cherry.

[Ghoulish Delight]

Hooray for root canals!

Seriously.

I must have a miracle dentist because I am pain-free after my root canal today! Huzzah!

Being a molar it's going to take a little bit more work, but man I expected the worst going in, and it was a breeze.

Maybe it helped that, after the first round of Novocaine she asked, "Are you feeling numb," and I said, "I guess I'm kinda numb," which prompted a couple more shots of Novocaine. Did the trick!

[Moonliner]

Nope - one of these. (http://www.klipsch.com/product/65527.6921.75855.0.0/1000826/_/RC-64) in Cherry.

Oooohhh! Ahhhhh!!! Cool.

[alphabassettgrrl]

GD, I'm glad your root canal went so well!

[cirquelover]

That's great GD and you can't beat a pain free dental procedure.

[lashbear]

Tickets for

Lady Gaga's
Born This Way Ball

At Sydney on June 23 2012

Yaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay.

:cheers: :snap: :cheers: :snap: :cheers: :snap: :cheers:

[Snowflake]

Tickets for

Lady Gaga's
Born This Way Ball

At Sydney on June 23 2012

Yaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay.

:cheers: :snap: :cheers: :snap: :cheers: :snap: :cheers:

That's awesome! I'm jealous! Love Gaga!

[Snowflake]

Bump, Bump, Bump! Another one bites the dust!

Don't have a pic, but another credit card has been paid off, cut up and tossed in ye olde trash. :D

[katiesue]

Congrats Snowflake!

My kindle quit holding a charge. It's a second gen one and out of warranty but I figured I'd chat with customer service and see if there was a fix. They tried but it won't communicate with the system. So they're sending me out a third gen replacement. Woo hoo! I'll need a new cover but it's cheaper than getting a new one, which would need a cover as well. And they're sending the 3G model which is more expensive than what I would have gotten to replace it. I love Amazon!

[innerSpaceman]

Huzzah for paid off credit cards and, I can scarcely believe it, wonderful root canals!! :cheers:

[alphabassettgrrl]

Congrats, Snowflake!

KatieSue- that's wonderful! Enjoy your new Kindle! :)

ISM- root canal- often better than the misery which makes them necessary. I know mine certainly was a relief.

[Not Afraid]

I have successfully added 2 partners to my business and officially become an LLC. My LLC notebook came with an official PreFurred Pet Care embossing stamp. I'm not sure what I'm going to do with it, but it made the three of us very excited.

[Ghoulish Delight]

I have successfully added 2 partners to my business I assume Thurston is the numbers man and Kimchi is the silent partner?

[Not Afraid]

I assume Thurston is the numbers man and Kimchi is the silent partner?

LOL!

It is frightening enough with me being the numbers person, let alone Thurston!

[JWBear]

LOL!

It is frightening enough with me being the numbers person, let alone Thurston!

As long as you don't have to type anything, you should be ok. ;)

[Ghoulish Delight]

1) Renewed our APs today. Yay!

2) While in DCA, spotted a couple of celebrities (two of the stars of the sketch show "Whitest Kids You Know"). I'm not normally one to approach celebrities, but we really like that show and we felt like their level of celebrity is such that they probably aren't constantly inundated with fans and might appreciate someone appreciating them. So we decided to say hi, and they were at least very good at pretending to be genuinely happy to see a couple of fans.

Celebrities are tall in public. They seriously were noticeably big people.

[€uroMeinke]

Celebrities are tall in public. They seriously were noticeably big people.

This is contrary to my experience - I'm often surprised at how small celebrities are. I presumed it had something to do with forced perspective.

[Ghoulish Delight]

These guys were giants. GIANTS.

[wendybeth]

This is contrary to my experience - I'm often surprised at how small celebrities are. I presumed it had something to do with forced perspective.
I was shocked by how tiny the stage costumes on display at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame were. Christina Aguilara's looked like something from 'Toddlers in Tiaras', and David Bowie's looked like it might have belonged to an anorexic 6th grader. Thin White Duke, indeed.

[Cadaverous Pallor]

These guys were giants. GIANTS.Trevor Moore is 6'6" and Sam Brown is 6'3", and man, I swear they bent down to talk to us and had huge hands. GIANTS!!!

Also, gigantically talented performers. :)

[Snowflake]

I have successfully added 2 partners to my business and officially become an LLC. My LLC notebook came with an official PreFurred Pet Care embossing stamp. I'm not sure what I'm going to do with it, but it made the three of us very excited.

This is simply fabulous! Congrats! I wish I lived closer so I could utilize your services!!!

[alphabassettgrrl]

New laptop! New laptop! Thank you, Woot!

[madmonkeygirl]

Doing the Happy Dance. I'm headed to Vegas twice once for my birthday week then the following weekend to see Jon Bon Jovi and friends at Tiger Jam. A friend of mie scored me floor center ticket 7th row but technically 6th and seat 6 meaning I am directly in front f that famous white mic stand. I am so excited. I love having frends to help and to include me on this trip lookout Vegas lol

[cirquelover]

My boy lettered, he is so excited!

Now Mom just has to be able to afford the jacket to put it on. I am so proud of him though!

[katiesue]

Congratulations to the Boy!

[Snowflake]

My boy lettered, he is so excited!

Now Mom just has to be able to afford the jacket to put it on. I am so proud of him though!

Awesome! What did he letter in?

[cirquelover]

Well technically basketball but he doesn't play, he has been the videographer since his freshman year. He is also at the coach's beck and call for any other sport too.

I would have gone to the banquet if I had any idea it was a possibility. I guess the coach can nominate anyone that has done an exceptional job and displayed good sportsmanship etc...


I really need to update my pic, he looks much different now!

[Snowflake]

Yeah, you do need to update the pic. Anyway, hooray for the boy for being an awesome sportsman and videographer! :snap:

[lashbear]

Awesome! What did he letter in?

French? Then he could walk around with a French Letter on his jacket.....

[alphabassettgrrl]

Congratulations to him!

[Kevy Baby]

French? Then he could walk around with a French Letter on his jacket.....Better than a scarlet letter.

Congrats to the boy!

[Morrigoon]

I dunno, in this case I'd find a Scarlet Letter on my jacket MUCH less embarrassing ;)

WTG for the Boy!

[Betty]

Speaking of updated photos Morrigoon... I'm sure someone else has been growing and would like to be shown off round here. :)

[Morrigoon]

You mean this someone? :) (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V2qtcWC1gDQ)


http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b321/morrigoon/Amelia/BasketBaby.jpg

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b321/morrigoon/Amelia/AmyVDay7wks.jpg

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b321/morrigoon/Amelia/SuperMarioAmelia_1-1.jpg

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b321/morrigoon/Amelia/SleepyJammies2MonthsOld.jpg

[Betty]

I love that you call her Amy as a nickname (as my daughter is Amy). Her cooing is adorable... and what a cute little smile. :)

[lashbear]

I just completed my second 3-mile walk for the day. I'm glowing. (and I've lost more weight.)

[Morrigoon]

Yay Lashie!

[alphabassettgrrl]

Good job, Bear!

[Gn2Dlnd]

Congratulations!

(and, I had to go look up the term "French Letter," so, thanks for THAT new Anglicism!)

[Cadaverous Pallor]

Amelia is beautiful!

[katiesue]

Maddie's bathroom is now a lovely shade of lilac. And I finally put up the new towel bars so it's all finished. The ones I bought almost 3 years ago before we even moved in.

[Ghoulish Delight]

Awesome, love a good productive home project weekend.

And on that theme, we finally fixed our patio umbrella. The cord had snapped, for the second time. This time we replaced it with a metal cable.

We might also finally fix the wonky light switch in the bathroom later.

[Disneyphile]

Our 2012 KOA Kamping guide arrived in today's mail, and now we're wanting to getaway for a weekend in an Airstream or tepee or cabin. So many places, so little time! :)

[lashbear]

Australia has some gorgeous camping spots...... Just sayin'.

[Morrigoon]

Extreme couponing is FUN!

Okay, so I've been taking Peanut to the photo studio inside BabiesRUs, and after your initial print order in the studio, you can order additional prints off this website online. I had received a coupon code via email for a couple print packages for that site, so I start putting packages together. The coupons from the email don't work quite as promised, (programming error?), so it occurred to me to search online for other coupon codes. Found a site called retailmenot that listed a bunch of codes, what they were for, and how recently they'd been successfully used by a user of that site. And users can leave ratings and comments. So I notice from the comments that most of those codes can be piled on top of each other. So I spent all evening working and reworking my cart until I figured out what was working and how. And I ended up with 6 8x10s, 1 10x13, 1 5x7 with 4 wallets - all those of studio-taken photos, plus 1 10x13 print of one of my uploaded photos. Got those all for FREE, and then, because my total "order" (before promotions) was over $49.99, the shipping was also free! Holy sh!t! This is the kind of thing I think of as only happening on TV.

[cirquelover]

It sounds like you worked the codes perfectly, great job. I have used that website too and it seems very user friendly.

[katiesue]

Omnipod (http://www.myomnipod.com/) customer service is so pleasant to deal with. They seem to have just as many problems as other pumps but they are always nice to speak with, apologetic that there's a problem, quickly walk me through a fix or overnight a replacement. Our local rep even returned an email late at night when I had a problem, and he was on vacation, giving me another rep that I could contact in the morning to help.

I sincerely hope no one here will ever need an insulin pump. But if you do Omnipods are the way to go in my opinion.

[Kevy Baby]

I always love hearing about good CS!

[CoasterMatt]

I got payrates restored for a dozen people.

I love this job.

[mousepod]

I got payrates restored for a dozen people.

I love this job.

Awesome. CoasterMatt = hero to the common man.

[innerSpaceman]

CoasterMatt for Congress!!
:snap:

[Cadaverous Pallor]

I spent all evening...
How much did you end up saving? I do love retailmenot but if the code doesn't work immediately I drop it. No time, no time, clean cup, move down...

[Snowflake]

How much did you end up saving? I do love retailmenot but if the code doesn't work immediately I drop it. No time, no time, clean cup, move down...

Snort! I am the same.

There are plenty of sites with various coupon codes. tjoos, couponcabin and probably a hundred others. Useful, I'm all about free shipping when I can get it and a little extra off the price.

[Morrigoon]

I got 9 prints, 2 of which are normally 19.99, and the other 7 normally 9.99, plus shipping - FREE. So I saved what, $110 plus whatever shipping would have been? Well worth the effort.

[Cadaverous Pallor]

I got 9 prints, 2 of which are normally 19.99, and the other 7 normally 9.99, plus shipping - FREE. So I saved what, $110 plus whatever shipping would have been? Well worth the effort.Somehow I missed the part of your post where you didn't pay anything for the pleasure of ordering their photos! :)

[Betty]

I got payrates restored for a dozen people.

I love this job.

:snap: :cheers: :snap:

[Ghoulish Delight]

Had a really great afternoon at Disnyland yesterday. In retrospect, having checked social media AFTER we got back, we wish we had let people know since it seems a lot of friends were at the park too. As it was, we just barely mustered enough momentum to make it out of the house and carry us to the park.

But so glad we did! We were only there for a couple hours but managed to take in the Tiki Room, Asimo, Small World, Dumbo, and Mr. Toad's. All of which T really enjoyed. It's been so great to see him finally getting beyond the sensory overload of it all.

[innerSpaceman]

Yep, I was tempted to Socially Mediacize it at some point, too. It was too good not to share. Beautiful day with local-uncharacteristically puffy clouds in deep blue sky (Montana skies, really), brisk but not freezing, and to my complete surprise - pretty much EMPTY on the second day of a weekend when the first day of that weekend rained on and off throughout - plus geeky WonderCon at the Anaheim Convention center across the street. Recipe for crowded Park, but for some reason ... No.


I also figured there must be other peeps around, and was surprised when we finally left that we'd run into no one.

We went to the Park on a lark when we realized Beaumark had just one day left on his AP. We were having too much fun to even slow down and tweet - and it was a rather romantic day that I would have been happy to share with people we ran into, but did not want to go out of my way to beckon people to join us. Sorry.

Really, one of the most glorious days I've had at the Park in a long time. It's rare that so many sights I've seen a zillion times can stun me with their beauty - when I'm not on psychedelic drugs - but it really was that lovely a day.

And not everything was walk-on, but a tremendous amount of very popular attractions were just that - so we walked around both parks, skipped everything with a line, and walked on everything that was walk-on ... and ended up going on more rides than we usually do in four such visits. And had such a beautiful time. I'm glad at least the Sloan clan were also there to enjoy the day. I hope others were, too. Disneyland Win.

[wendybeth]

Our aged Primary Dog, Mellie, was really sick last night and earlier today. Called a vet for a home visit, and he sorted her out. Even though he had to perform an *ahem* rather invasive treatment on her, she is not one to hold grudges, and within minutes was trying to entice him into a game of "you toss, I'll fetch, and then not give it to you" with her purple octopus.She is doing much better, and we are all very relieved. We love that big goofy dog!!!!! Biscuit, however, was less than amused. We decided to get their rabies shots- just to keep them current- and she is still a bit peeved.

[wendybeth]

Another happy dance post!: Tori received her acceptance letter tonight from the Riverpoint Academy, WSU Riverpoint Campus. It's a new school that combines HS and University, and promises to be an outstanding academic opportunity. They only accept 75 students, so entry was very competitive. Tori's adviser, who also happens to be her Principal, told her several weeks ago that she would not be able to apply, as she is a transfer (from another district) student. This didn't set well with me, so I talked it over the next day with several friends who are teachers, and they all encouraged us to have Tori apply anyway. When I got home, I discovered she already had. Within a week, she and her dad were meeting with the new director, and less than an hour after her interview (which she felt went very well) the Mead district had called to say our home district (Spokane District 81) had denied the transfer. One pissed off mama bear.......so I called the district Superintendent the very next day, made it very clear that we could have sued them silly nine years ago when they refused to comply with her IEP, and that this time they were in for a fight. A few hours later, and I get a call that "we would never deny Tori this opportunity.....she is a Mead student, and we would not refuse the transfer....just a misunderstanding..." I phoned the Mead district back, told them what 81 had said, and then we got to wait to see if right triumphed over politics. (81 is very large, but Mead is the best district in the state for academic excellence, so lots of politics there- not the least that the Riverpoint Campus is smack dab in the center of 81- lol). I knew she qualified grades- wise, especially in Science, but I was very worried that forces outside our control would mess this up. When she got the acceptance letter, I was so, so proud- not just because she has overcome so much and that all of her hard work was finally paying off, but that she didn't take no for an answer- she did this, all on her own, and words cannot express how much that means to me. One truly ironic thing in all of this? The WSU campus is also home to the HOPE school, an auditory/verbal school for the Deaf/HOH, and is run by all of her former preschool teachers. Tori can be a role model to the little ones- that they can do anything, if they work hard and set their minds to it. So proud of our girl- and I say 'our', because she is a LoT girl, and you all have have contributed so much to her education, in more ways than you know, and that I probably don't want to know.....lol! ;)

http://riverpointacademy.org/riverpoint/

[JWBear]

Congrats Tori!

[Snowflake]

Congrats do not say the half of what I feel at this moment. Happy dance for you all!

[cirquelover]

Great job Tori! I am very proud of your accomplishments and especially fighting for what you wanted, way to go girl!

[Betty]

Another happy dance post!: Tori received her acceptance letter tonight from the Riverpoint Academy

:snap: I loved reading this.

[katiesue]

Congratulations Tori!

[Ghoulish Delight]

Great news, congrats, she totally deserves it!

[lashbear]

Great news - Sending Tori Big Happy-Snow-Dances from Stoat & me. (Even in Crocs) :)

[Not Afraid]

I couldn't be more proud of "our" girl! She is amazing all around and this is a FINE feather in her cap.

[Cadaverous Pallor]

Wow, Tori, Way To GO!

We can already add you to the list of amazing achievers that grew up with this group. DisneyFan25863 now works for NASA and MonorailMan works for Google. You're well on your way to an amazing adulthood!

[wendybeth]

Thanks so much, everyone! Tori is pretty excited at the prospect of moving from a very cramped, refurbished country schoolhouse to a downtown University campus. She's also hopeful the kids will be a bit more serious about their studies than many of her current classmates are. They tend to be loud, disrespectful to the teachers, and just generally kind of obnoxious- makes doing work in class a real challenge for her sometimes. She's definitely ready to move on!

[alphabassettgrrl]

congrats to Tori!

[Gn2Dlnd]

That is amazing! Love and congratulations, Tori!

[Prudence]

Yay Tori!

[JWBear]

I gave a training on Office 2010 this morning. No one asked a question that stumped me (my greatest fear when training)! YAY!

[Snowflake]

I gave a training on Office 2010 this morning. No one asked a question that stumped me (my greatest fear when training)! YAY!

Congrats! That's because you have to be an awesome instructor! :snap:

[lashbear]

I gave a training on Office 2010 this morning. No one asked a question that stumped me (my greatest fear when training)! YAY!

Not even the one about how to clean Crisco off crêpe de Chine ?

[JWBear]

No, not even that.

[katiesue]

We've lived here almost 3 years and I just put up the final towel rack that I bought before we moved in. And the mirror and clock in Maddie's bath so it's all done post re-paint.

The garage door guy came yesterday and showed me how to do the maintenance so now it's about 85% quieter than before and I know how to keep it that way.

Now onto 8 million other projects.

[lashbear]

Make me cookies.

[Kevy Baby]

*POOF*

You're cookies

[lashbear]

*POOF*

You're cookies
*COOKIES*

I'm Poof.

[Betty]

I gave a training on Office 2010 this morning. No one asked a question that stumped me (my greatest fear when training)! YAY!

Right on!

[Betty]

The garage door guy came yesterday and showed me how to do the maintenance so now it's about 85% quieter than before and I know how to keep it that way.

Now onto 8 million other projects.

Don't you just love learning helpful things like this? I think they should spend part of every child's school day teaching them a variety of handy things. You get out on your own and the garbage disposal gets stuck or the vaccuum cleaner stops working or how to put a bike chain back on a bike.

(You know, in some perfect world where there is enough money or whatever, to do something besides teach to the next test.)

[Scrooge McSam]

That's such great news about Tori!

<commence more happy dancing for my own self>

I got a studio at the Grand Cal for November finally! Those villas are tough to get if that's not your home resort.

[Capt Jack]

omg! I won the Canadian/African Lottery for $1000,000,00.00 U.S.A. dolars!!!

(havent received one of these in ages...and yes, thats how the amount was written)

I feel so special...again

(insert eye roll smilie here)

[wendybeth]

I got a studio at the Grand Cal for November finally! Those villas are tough to get if that's not your home resort.

They're tough to get even when you ARE a member of that resort. We had a heck of a time this year figuring out dates- all the ones we wanted were already gone by the time we tried to book. (Early last fall).

[Cadaverous Pallor]

See you in November, Scrooge! :D

[CoasterMatt]

As you probably already know, I had a bike accident on Monday- I'm ok, but there's some pretty vicious scratching on the black handlebars of my bike.

I bought my bike, for a couple of reasons. The main one of course, was the motor that would make my rather long commute a bit more palatable. The other was the number of stories I heard about this company's incredible customer service, and reliability of their bikes.

The company is Pedego Bicycles, and they're based in Irvine, CA.

The CEO is a guy named Don DiCostanzo, and one of the stories I'd heard was of Pedego owners who called the company actually having him call them back and going above and beyond what you'd expect to resolve their issues.

Since Don is on Facebook, I sent him a message thanking him for a great bike, but also mentioning that I needed to find some touch up paint for the handlebars.

He replied quickly, and sent an email saying that he was sending out a bottle of black touch up paint and an industrial Sharpie, because sometimes the Sharpie was a bit easier to use.

:D

[alphabassettgrrl]

That's fantastic, Matt! About the Customer Service, not about you crashing.

[Snowflake]

So, I bought 3 new pairs of pants a few weeks back. They sat in the closet for 2 weeks, a little bit too snug to wear all day at the office in comfort. Now they're too big and are falling off.

I should cross post in the vent thread, this is getting expensive!

[Ghoulish Delight]

Belts are cheaper.

[JWBear]

Then you get that baggy-bunchy look, and it's not very attractive.

[Strangler Lewis]

Yes, pants should hang naturally about the ankles.

[cirquelover]

So, I bought 3 new pairs of pants a few weeks back. They sat in the closet for 2 weeks, a little bit too snug to wear all day at the office in comfort. Now they're too big and are falling off.

I should cross post in the vent thread, this is getting expensive!

Did you save the receipt? You might be able to return them for a smaller size. Isn't it wonderful to say "I need a smaller size"?!

[Ghoulish Delight]

I've lost 10 lbs since the beginning of March and am in way better shape.

5 more and I'll be very happy. 10 more and I'll be ecstatic (and hopefully finally lose the love handles). Although it might be tricky to keep the weight off once I start training in earnest for my 100 mile bike ride in September. "6-8 hours of constant biking including hill climbing" and "reduced calorie intake" doesn't sound like a clever combination, so the "eat less" half of my patent-pending "Eat Less, Move More" weight loss program will have to be modified. But of course it will come with in increase in the "move more" half, so who knows. And if I do put a few pounds back on I'm totally okay with that being the reason.

[Moonliner]

I've lost 10 lbs since the beginning of March and am in way better shape.

5 more and I'll be very happy. 10 more and I'll be ecstatic (and hopefully finally lose the love handles). Although it might be tricky to keep the weight off once I start training in earnest for my 100 mile bike ride in September. "6-8 hours of constant biking including hill climbing" and "reduced calorie intake" doesn't sound like a clever combination, so the "eat less" half of my patent-pending "Eat Less, Move More" weight loss program will have to be modified. But of course it will come with in increase in the "move more" half, so who knows. And if I do put a few pounds back on I'm totally okay with that being the reason.

With you, less is always better. Keep up the great work!

[alphabassettgrrl]

Dang- good job on losing weight!

[CoasterMatt]

I'm going to the Kings game tonight! :D

Look for me in the 6th row, center ice- just to the side/back of the penalty box with a clear view to the ice.

[CoasterMatt]

Today I rode what I believe is the best new theme park ride in decades, Transformers: The Ride 3D at Universal Studios Hollywood.

Craps all over Spiderman (which was my previous favorite dark ride anywhere).

Detail all around, excellent pacing, and 3D blended with physical sets absolutely brilliantly.

Oh, I wish I could have ridden with the group of Imagineers I saw entering as I was heading away from the building.

[alphabassettgrrl]

Transformers? I'm jealous! I was just talking with someone today about that ride and how I need to make a trip to Universal.

[CoasterMatt]

It's in 'technical rehearsals' from now until official opening on May 25.

Head there early on a weekday for best shot - just keep in mind that it's subject to close at any time.