Sooooo.....

[Betty]

Random photos (http://izismile.com/2009/04/24/daily_picdump_122_pics.html). Some interesting... some not.

How's that for an enticement?

[mousepod]

Random photos (http://izismile.com/2009/04/24/daily_picdump_122_pics.html). Some interesting... some not.

How's that for an enticement?

It was worth it for this:

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/telegraph/multimedia/archive/01389/art-head_1389024i.jpg

[Tref]

I am going to guess that's Klaus Kinski and a guy leaning on an imaginary pedestal.

[Moonliner]

Maybe if they made vibrating bicycle seats

Or if you just remove the seats.......

[Prudence]

Supposedly escrow closed on my condo, but no funds for me or the mortgage company until the title company's legal team reviews, in microscopic detail, the specifics of the divorce settlement so they can be properly convinced that they shouldn't just send all the money to my ex.

Did they mention this any of the dozen times they kept calling to make sure I was going to be home to receive the documents? Did them mention it any of the dozen times I asked if there was ANYthing else they needed, when I stressed that the mortgage had to be paid off by today or I would be reported to the credit bureaus?

(B of A, you know. Won't even accept "but my sale closed escrow" as a legitimate reason to be even a day late on the mortgage payment - no, better pay up immediately because clearly after 6 years of timely mortgage payments I'm clearly a deadbeat and should be reported to the credit czars.)

Or, did they perhaps wait until 3pm on the date of closing to tell me that oh, they were going to need to do this additional level of review and gosh, my closer has been out sick all week and the earliest anyone can start will be Monday, and gosh, they just can't say how long this all might take -- could be several weeks.

I'll let you guess which option they selected.

[katiesue]

Oh Pru I'm so sorry. I had a super stressful closing last week. I hope they get it all worked out for you asap.

[Prudence]

I assume the manufactured delay is so that they can hold onto my funds for the maximum time and thus accrue more interest they shan't be sharing.

[blueerica]

Hmm, one of the best little quotes I've read in a while comes from the 1916 valedictorian speech of the grandfather of my company's co-CEOs.

Education can not be carried on exclusively in the study and class room. Every meadow and every woodland is a college and every city block is filled with teachers. Do you know how the stream flows, how the kingfisher poises above it, how the trout swims in it, how the fern uncurls along its banks? Do you know the song of the birds, the voices of the forests and the sea?

...Beyond the world of outward perception, there is another world of inward vision and the key to it is imagination; to see things as they were or as they will be in the ending, to make the absent present, to rebuild the past out of fragments of of carven stone and to enter into the lives of all [can't read this word] and conditions of men. Imagination is the medium of all human sympathy..

[innerSpaceman]

:snap: Wow, snaps to that.

[Bornieo: Fully Loaded]

Well, back working at a Movie theatre again. Was hesitant because of the pay but it's income. Went in tonight to brush up but it was like I never left. I did, however, miss the free passes. ;)

[Morrigoon]

That reminds me, El Capitan is hiring an attractions host to help with the side event stuff. Also part time, if you're interested.

[JWBear]

There are a lot of hot men in Iran.

[innerSpaceman]

How's that for a non-sequiter, folks?!

JW, I'm not sure if that's not needlessly crass, when hundreds of thousands are in the streets in the greatest civil unrest in decades, and a few of them being killed. I hope they didn't kill the hot ones. (See how that can seem sorta uncool at the moment?)


In other news for you, if you're still staying away from the Daily Grind and the Parking Lot, the California legislature has crafted a compromise on the AIDS budget cuts: $8 million instead of $80 million, none of it from ADAP and not enough to trigger an end to matching Federal funds.

[JWBear]

This coming from someone who went to protests looking far a boyfriend?

It was just an observation. Get over it.

And yes, I had heard about ADAP. Thanks.

[innerSpaceman]

Going to protests looking for a boyfriend is how Cadaverous Pallor categorized it. I take issue with that, as it's patently false.



I have the internet for that. ;)

[JWBear]

I have the internet for that. ;)

That's not good... You know the kind of people you meet on the internet... ;)

[Ghoulish Delight]

There are a lot of hot men in Iran.

This coming from someone who went to protests looking far a boyfriend?Speaking of hot, I wonder how Mumbai's recovering from the terrorist attacks.

[Gemini Cricket]

"Semper frosting." ~ Stephen Colbert

I love him so much.
lol
:D

[€uroMeinke]

Going to protests looking for a boyfriend is how Cadaverous Pallor categorized it. I take issue with that, as it's patently false.



well, in defense of CP she merely took your written word as truth (as suspect others may have) - sometimes sarcasm fails like that.

[innerSpaceman]

Yes, apparently we need a sarcasm emoticon. I often forget that sarcasm or any kind of humorous twisting of reality is regularly misinterpreted on the internet.


But sheesh, it's quite a stretch from a expressing some disappointment that my new connections to dozens of gay pals did not lead to so much as a single date -to- my purpose in being a gay activist was to land a man.

That's more than misinterpretation, it's really rather insulting. I blame the limited smiley selection.

[wendybeth]

I have to back up JW on the hot guys observation- I sort of noticed that many of the men in the pictures I've seen out of there are indeed very good looking. I'm somewhat surprised by how fashionable they look as well- I guess I assumed that since they live in what is basically an Islamic theocracy (would that be an accurate description of Iran these days?) they might be more conservative in their apparel. Instead,they are wearing pretty up to date western style clothing. Anyway, I don't feel badly for thinking that they are good looking- our movie action dudes always seem to manage to look hot while they are in peril, and I don't have a problem with that either.;)

[alphabassettgrrl]

Pru- that sucks. I thought our closing was stressful, but you've definitely got me beat. Mine just took two months longer than it should have and involved sending every financial document possible during those two months. I hope they finish it darn soon and get it all squared away and send you the money they ought.

[Cadaverous Pallor]

People are dead. I don't see the humor. (http://www.loungeoftomorrow.com/LoT/showpost.php?p=255863&postcount=7)

[JWBear]

People are dead. I don't see the humor. (http://www.loungeoftomorrow.com/LoT/showpost.php?p=255863&postcount=7)

Who's laughing?

[Cadaverous Pallor]

Who's laughing?Perhaps I should have said "people are dead, I don't see the hotness." I thought the correlation was obvious enough.

[Ghoulish Delight]

well, in defense of CP she merely took your written word as truth (as suspect others may have) - sometimes sarcasm fails like that.

Yes, apparently we need a sarcasm emoticon. I often forget that sarcasm or any kind of humorous twisting of reality is regularly misinterpreted on the internet.


But sheesh, it's quite a stretch from a expressing some disappointment that my new connections to dozens of gay pals did not lead to so much as a single date -to- my purpose in being a gay activist was to land a man.

That's more than misinterpretation, it's really rather insulting. I blame the limited smiley selection.I think the first couple of times you said it everyone saw the humor, sarcasm, whatever. It was the fact that you seemed to mention it every single time you brought up your involvement that made her (and others) start to question just how joking it was.

[blueerica]

Soooo... I'm just waiting out the time, feeling helpless and far away. My dad called last night to tell me that they've moved my grandma into hospice care. The awful part is that we've been trying to talk to the doctors for almost a week, and no one got back to us. Yesterday, my aunt gets a call from a doctor, not our doctor, or any of the other attending doctors, but some other doctor saying simply that "she's a perfect candidate for hospice."

Well, yeah, I knew that. This isn't my first time around the block with quickly degenerating illnesses, and I knew it was downhill, fast. But I'm hurt for the rest of my family. The doctors were entirely too optimistic, given the facts of the situation.

My family, on my father's side, is the kind that wants the truth; in our faces. It's easier to deal with and recover from tough facts than it is to recover from confusion and lack-of-communication. We've expressed this.

It's our mother, our grandma, our friend that's dying, and I guess it's easy to forget how hard that is. I just didn't realize how hard it would be to feel so far away. I'm just a quick plane ride away, but to what avail? She could go any minute now, and I got to have that "last conversation" with her last week, before and after they worked on her collapsed lung. How many people ever get that? Do I go back for a funeral, a memorial, a celebration of a life well-lived?

My aunt, the one I like to listen to in my moments of grief and confusion, said that I should probably just hold off on flying out, but to call. Yeah, tried that last night, and the bitch in the third bed said:

"Evelyn's watching TV."

"Oh, this is Erica, her granddaughter, is she able to talk?"

"Yes. Okay... bye!" <click>

Yeah, doesn't sound bitchy, but I've met the lady, and she's just like that.

I guess I'll try calling again today, and continue waiting until they say to come out.

[JWBear]

Perhaps I should have said "people are dead, I don't see the hotness." I thought the correlation was obvious enough.

I don't think there had been any deaths yet at the time I posted that. (And if there had been, I hadn't heard of them yet.)

So... lets compare the two:

Seeing pictures of a peaceful protest and thinking that many of the men are attractive.

Hearing reports of terrorists systematically rounding up people and slaughtering them, and think that this would make a good idea for a fun party game.

Yep. Same thing. :rolleyes:

[LSPoorEeyorick]

Erica, I'm so sorry you're going through that. Having just been through a major loss, your frustration with the staff and the too-far-away lost feeling is all too familiar. I hope for peace for you and for your family. Thinking of you.

[blueerica]

Yeah, doesn't sound bitchy, but I've met the lady, and she's just like that.
So, I just spoke with another aunt, and I guess it isn't that lady I met. Woah - who the F was that, then?

[Tref]

I don't think there had been any deaths yet at the time I posted that. (And if there had been, I hadn't heard of them yet.)

So... lets compare the two

Who cares? So somebody made a joke. Get over it -- everybody. There is not one here among you on LoT who has not told, posted (or laughed) at an inappropriate joke, so this phony indignation is just plain dumb. We are all morbid in our own way, and it is even healthy to laugh at that which we most fear. I am sure we are all creative enough to find a way to express our displeasure without trying to shame another.

[Kevy Baby]

There is not one here among you on LoT who has not told, posted (or laughed) at an inappropriate joke, so this phony indignation is just plain dumb.I have NEVER done such a thing, so I get to be pompously self-righteous!

[BarTopDancer]

I just didn't realize how hard it would be to feel so far away. I'm just a quick plane ride away, but to what avail? She could go any minute now, and I got to have that "last conversation" with her last week, before and after they worked on her collapsed lung. How many people ever get that? Do I go back for a funeral, a memorial, a celebration of a life well-lived?

I think you should come back when you feel the need to come back. Airfare isn't that horrible and if it helps you through the process then...

[LSPoorEeyorick]

I agree with BTD.

As I grappled with whether or not (or how long) to return to Michigan, a few people told me that whatever my decision was, whatever the consequence, I would not regret any time I spent with her. And I really didn't. All I can recommend is doing what your heart tells you to do.

[innerSpaceman]

Yeah, i don't read Soooooo so often, so I'm so late in responding to so much.


I realize I went overboard with my no-boyfriend-yet activist stuff. I won't deny it was on my mind, but it was always said in humor and I didn't realize until CP pointed it out that it was seeming a bit protest-too-much.

That was a great service to me. Sometimes I don't realize I've said something a zillion times before if it's still on my mind. Pfft, I just posted something in the Post Prop 8 thread today about Obama that was almost a word-for-word retread of what I posted yesterday. (There was a new wrinkle, but I would have left out the Obama part if I'd remembered I'd posted it just the day before).


Anyway, thanks to CP or anyone who calls me on my sh!t or anything hinting of ulterior motivation. Often we don't see ourselves as well as others see us. Sometimes those observations are incorrect, but it never hurts to check them out with a self-reality-check.


I quit gay activism this week. I wasn't feeling the post-Supremes-Decision passion nearly as much as I'd imagined I would. I feel perfectly comfortable with others carrying on, and with my life not so inundated and dominated by gay activism. But in all honesty, if a few of the dozens of pals I made had become good friends, I might have continued just for the fun of it.

I won't deny that a major benefit, perhaps THE major one, of anything I get involved in is the friendships that might form. I can't be sustained by the "thing" alone, even if that thing is somewhat important. While I would have been happy finding a boyfriend, it wasn't something I expected or demanded in order to be satisfied. But no social friendships among the many, many pals I've made after six months is a great disappointment that I cannot abide.

Sure, if I still felt as passionately about The Cause, no close friends or lovers would not make a difference. But the lack of real friendships was indeed a deciding factor in me dropping the SGA from my name.


It's going to be a difficult transition from constant activity to really nothing going on.

Heck of a time to be tempted by the new iPhone. :(

[innerSpaceman]

<<<Hugs>>>> Miss Erica.



And yeah, JW, I over-reacted about the hot Iranians. The shootings were just fresh in my mind at that moment.

[JWBear]

And yeah, JW, I over-reacted about the hot Iranians. The shootings were just fresh in my mind at that moment.

That's ok... Goddess knows I've never overreacted to something posted here here... :rolleyes:

[lashbear]

It was the fact that you seemed to mention it every single time you brought up your involvement that made her (and others) start to question just how joking it was.
Not necessarily... We make lots of comments about how cute you look with the beard and how we all want to get down and... well, you know. Anyhow, we say it lots, but you still know we're only joking.

right?



...or are we ? :evil:

[RStar]

Love you guys, warts and all.....

:snap:

[wendybeth]

Those are beauty marks, mister.;)

[Morrigoon]

If State signs were more truthful (http://thechive.com/2009/03/if-state-signs-were-more-truthful-14-photos/)

[wolfy999]

I've decided I really like the perks that come with Hubby's new job. We are off for 3 days to stay in a Villa in La Quinta (by Palm Springs) for no charge. He has to start checking out the properties he represents...and over course he needs his assistants to go along with him. Woohoo!

[ozron]

Some friends were at the zoo the other day...

http://www.livepdx.com/video/19780895/index.html

Jeannie was a little surprised...

[Kevy Baby]

If State signs were more truthful (http://thechive.com/2009/03/if-state-signs-were-more-truthful-14-photos/)Led me to (http://thechive.com/2009/01/if-everyday-objects-were-designed-by-mc-escher-16-photos/):

http://thechive.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/01/mc-escher-real-12.jpg

[ozron]

Yeah, well, it's that time of year!

Our concert series kicked off last night with Femi Kuti and Positive Force. Great show!

http://www.kgw.com/video/?z=y&nvid=372414&shu=1

Krista is my boss. Okay, technically my supervisor. She's great!

[innerSpaceman]

Some friends were at the zoo the other day...
Yeah, cute. But I'd kill the man who proposed to me on TV, or even in front of a group of people. Put me on the spot like that so that a refusal would embarass everyone, and the first person I'll embarass is YOU, buddy.

[Prudence]

Arg. I keep trying to deliberately sabotage myself. I think. Example: I'm filling out my own evaluation because my supervisor doesn't know how. And I really want to mark that I am not recommended for the regularly scheduled promotion because I honestly don't feel that I've really done anything here. Not that it's my fault - they refuse to allow me to move outside of my narrow little data entry box. But, I haven't really "grown" or learned much, so from an objective view I don't merit promotion. But, no one gives a **** except me. No one else in the universe will care that I sat in my cube and surfed because I literally had nothing else to do. As far as the culture here goes, it's strictly a butt-in-chair issue; my butt has been in the chair the required length of time, so I go up. And my supervisor will sign whatever I put in front of her - either way, since she won't read it. A reasonable person would probably check the promotion box and send the forms on their way. However, I am not a reasonable person. I'm a neurotic twit who feels that is dishonest and that I should remain at my current level because I haven't earned a promotion yet.

And that is just one of the many things on my mind today as I try to figure out what punishments I should accept/encourage and which ones are psycho-brain sabotage.

I really hate being me most of the time. It's exhausting. I need a nap.

[innerSpaceman]

Well, you don't have to be you. Be whomever you'd like to be.

Being the you you're used to, and the you your mind is wired to behave like is NOT the same as being you. You don't have to be the default you. You can be the new you anytime you have the will to.


I'm not recommending that any version of you lack integrity.


But a you that believes you're not worthy of promotion simply because THEY gave you no opportunity to demonstrate that worth is a you that should be jettisoned.


imho.

[Moonliner]

Arg. I keep trying to deliberately sabotage myself. I think. Example: I'm filling out my own evaluation because my supervisor doesn't know how. And I really want to mark that I am not recommended for the regularly scheduled promotion because I honestly don't feel that I've really done anything here. Not that it's my fault - they refuse to allow me to move outside of my narrow little data entry box. But, I haven't really "grown" or learned much, so from an objective view I don't merit promotion. But, no one gives a **** except me. No one else in the universe will care that I sat in my cube and surfed because I literally had nothing else to do. As far as the culture here goes, it's strictly a butt-in-chair issue; my butt has been in the chair the required length of time, so I go up. And my supervisor will sign whatever I put in front of her - either way, since she won't read it. A reasonable person would probably check the promotion box and send the forms on their way. However, I am not a reasonable person. I'm a neurotic twit who feels that is dishonest and that I should remain at my current level because I haven't earned a promotion yet.

And that is just one of the many things on my mind today as I try to figure out what punishments I should accept/encourage and which ones are psycho-brain sabotage.

I really hate being me most of the time. It's exhausting. I need a nap.

Stop thinking only about yourself. Put the needs to the company first. After all that's really what these reviews are all about. So step back for a second and ask yourself: Would the company be better off if I was promoted?

I think you know the correct answer.

[SzczerbiakManiac]

I am now officially a Creepy Uncle©

My late step dad's grandson (aka my step sister's son, aka, my step nephew) was in attendance last weekend for the memorial.

He.
Is.
Gorgeous!

Fortunately (in this one sense) it was sunny and I could keep my sunglasses on while I oogled him from across the room. I felt dirty, but could not stop staring. :eek:

[innerSpaceman]

Heheh, it was a few years ago, but there were a bunch of gorgeous boys (and girls) at a party I was at, and I was ogling them all day ... um, and then I found out they were the grown children of friends, kids I hadn't seen since little kidhood. Yep, felt creepy dirty.

But not enough to stop ogling.

[Disneyphile]

I am rocking and rolling today. Doing some much needed housework - already tossed a ton of paper crap, and cleaned and organized underneath the kitchen sink. After lunch, I'm dusting the living room, dining room, and bedroom. Also scored two more web design projects, in addition to now adding in layout and optimization duties to my current ones (for more pay, of course).

And, I need the housework to be done by 5'ish so I can shower since we're going out with some friends tonight. I'm thinking I still might need a small miracle to finish it all. Can someone please send Mary Poppins over?

[innerSpaceman]

From Australia?

[Disneyphile]

From Australia?I wish!

[Morrigoon]

Damn, and I was going to be happy if I vacuumed and hit the grocery store. Rock on, woman!

In other news... I'm craving some fish tacos. A field trip to Rubio's may be in order.

[JWBear]

I am now officially a Creepy Uncle©

My late step dad's grandson (aka my step sister's son, aka, my step nephew) was in attendance last weekend for the memorial.

He.
Is.
Gorgeous!

Fortunately (in this one sense) it was sunny and I could keep my sunglasses on while I oogled him from across the room. I felt dirty, but could not stop staring. :eek:

Pictures? :evil:

[Tref]

Yeah, cute. But I'd kill the man who proposed to me on TV, or even in front of a group of people. Put me on the spot like that so that a refusal would embarass everyone, and the first person I'll embarass is YOU, buddy.

I'll make a note of that.

[lashbear]

I don't think Mary does windows...

[Prudence]

Resolved:

I hate my job. My job is unsatisfying. It will never be satisfying, because the federal GS system is designed specifically to make sure that no one with an ounce of intelligence ever makes it up the chain. I need to be practicing law. I will get off my butt and apply for clerkships again because hey, maybe they'll be confused and think that being a PMF was something impressive. I will apply for the AG's honors program once the application system is online the end of July. And if neither of those pie-in-the-sky routes works out, I will start the full-court press on other options. Because, Bob damn it, I am fvcking brilliant. And I deserve a job where I get to think.

[innerSpaceman]

Yay, good for YOU PRU!!! DO IT!!!!

[blueerica]

GOOOOO PRUUU!!!

[Morrigoon]

It's funny watching a trending topic on Twitter, as you're reading more comments popping up on the topic than you can read... it's like watching information spread around the world before your eyes.

(Noticed that Pixar was a trending topic, so I clicked to see what was Up (http://bit.ly/11bVJZ))

[SzczerbiakManiac]

Pictures? :evil:Sadly, no. I did not bring my camera. The only pictures I found of him around the house were from his elementary school years or younger. Definitely NOT hot! (I may be a Creepy Uncle©, but I'm not that creepy.)
Bob damn it, I am fvcking brilliant. And I deserve a job where I get to think.You GO girl!! :snap:

[wolfy999]

Off to the Villa in La Quinta....woohoo!

[katiesue]

Off to the Villa in La Quinta....woohoo!

Have a great weekend!!

[Disneyphile]

Down 1.1 pounds since Monday. :D

[alphabassettgrrl]

Hi, everybody!

Pru- I agree- you deserve a job where you get to think. Go for it!

DP- big job there! How do you get the energy?

Wolfy- I hope you enjoyed the weekend!

Me- I saw the butterfly greenhouse in Santa Barbara and did a good bike ride this morning.

[3894]

Because, Bob damn it, I am fvcking brilliant. And I deserve a job where I get to think.

And because, unless you ask, you're saying "no" for the potential employer.

Do it. Godspeed. Now go forth and rock the world, Prudence.

So. Carmel, CA has a very high concentration of overdone eyelid and lip jobs.

[Morrigoon]

Pilot buries crash survivor to save his life (http://www.cnn.com/2009/WORLD/asiapcf/06/22/australia.chopper.crash/index.html)

[Morrigoon]

ROTFLMAOPIMP!

Check it out... there's an entry in the urban dictionary all about me (http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=chronoptimist&defid=1797386)! And if you don't believe me, note the name used in the example. Hahah.

(Okay, it's not actually me, but it totally describes me... )

[SzczerbiakManiac]

A friend of mine submitted an Urban Dictionary acronym about me (http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=ogs) years ago. For the longest time, his original definition was the only one there. It looks like others have added different definitions, but I know mine was the first. (As of this writing, it's definition #6.)

I'm not kidding, it really was written about me. That's his nickname for me.

[Morrigoon]

LOL, you've been thumbed down.

[Disneyphile]

Brought home a new hanging cat scratcher pad with a toy attached to the top. Emmy ripped the toy off and hid it under the bed within the first 2 minutes.

That cat is a sheer joy...

[wolfy999]

I'm so glad your enjoying our little bundle of joy! Miss seeing her (sorta)!

[Prudence]

The Rat just sang, from the kitchen: "Rice-a-roni, the satanistic treat!" Which is now how I will forever think of that product.

[RStar]

The Rat just sang, from the kitchen: "Rice-a-roni, the satanistic treat!" Which is now how I will forever think of that product.

I found that out when I got the oil too hot before pouring in the box of said product........

[3894]

The Rat just sang, from the kitchen: "Rice-a-roni, the satanistic treat!" Which is now how I will forever think of that product.

The first squabble I ever had with the hubbo was over Rice-a-Roni. I loved it; Tom said it was cardboard + salt. It was a long-running squabble, people. Sadly, I slowly turned against Rice-a-Roni and I now make it from scratch. Never, ever would I have predicted this state of affairs.

Ah, memories.

So. The humidity is steaming up the windows today.

[Alex]

Rice-a-Roni is one of the few dishes on my "every meal originated in a box" upbringing that I have shed. Once I got to college and had good rice, there was no going back.

But I am still more than willing to consume my share of Top Ramen, Kraft (or even Generic) Macaroni & Cheese, Chicken Shake 'N' Bake, various non-beef Hamburger Helper products, etc. Not often since Lani doesn't eat these things (except the ramen) but if given the opportunity.

[mousepod]

I lived in San Francisco for over a decade, and never once had Rice-A-Roni.

[alphabassettgrrl]

Sadly, I love Rice-A-Roni.

Why, when calling "the dark side" do people have to use "THE SCARY VOICE"??? How about using your normal voice? I'm watching a show on Aleister Crowley's home and one of the guys is chanting something in a wierd voice and it occurred to me that I've seen that before.

[3894]

Here's how I make homemade Rice-a-Roni:

1 T butter
1 handful angel hair pasta, broken in pieces
1 t chopped garlic
1 onion, chopped
1 c mushrooms, sliced
1/2 t dried dill
2 c chicken broth
1 c rice (whichever kind you like best)
1/2 t salt

1. Melt butter in a saucepan over med. heat. Stir in pasta and let brown. Add garlic, onion, mushrooms, and dill weed. Sauté until onions are opaque.
2. Stir in broth and bring to a boil.
3. Dump in the rice, bring back to boil, turn down heat, cover, and let cook however long the rice needs.

Voilà! It's really good with a handful of toasted pine nuts. Just sayin'.

[Snowflake]

I grew up with Rice-A-Roni and never looked back once I discovered basmati rice, risotto and sushi. I will have to try your recipe Helen, looks like fun!

[innerSpaceman]

I live alone. I hate to cook.


Needless to say, I love Rice-a-Roni.

[SzczerbiakManiac]

For years I have wanted to make a movie set in San Francisco. In every single shot of people eating, even in the background, they would be eating nothing but Rice-a-Roni.

Yes, I am easily amused.

[3894]

For years I have wanted to make a movie set in San Francisco. In every single shot of people eating, even in the background, they would be eating nothing but Rice-a-Roni.


Followed by a misfortune cookie (http://www.fal.net/html/misfortu.html) for dessert? Mine says You have a big future
in food service.

[Prudence]

I love Rice-a-Roni. And Pasta Roni. And Hamburger Helper, Spaghetti-Os, Chef Boyardee ravioli, and instant mashed potatoes. Love love love. I know it's disgusting. I'll make something gourmet one day and something from a box the next.

[Prudence]

In other news: another thread reminded me - I have no idea what to do on the 4th. I like things that go splody in the sky, but super mega overwhelming crowds/traffic sometimes blow my circuits and send me offline for the rest of the evening. Don't want to sit home bored, though. Dunno what to do. Any suggestions? Go somewhere? Sit at home with board games and hope someone wants to play? Run naked through the streets of Torrance with squid on our heads?

[Morrigoon]

No idea what to tell you. I'd hang out w/you except I'm going to be stuck at work with the great unwashed. On the bright side I may get a glimpse of splody things.

[Ghoulish Delight]

Well, you'd want the 4th to be something special, not just the same-old same-old, so the last option's obviously out.

[JWBear]

You could always drive to one of the towns in SoCal that still allow "Safe And Sane" fireworks (Lakewood is the only one that comes to mind immediately) and drive around the neighborhoods to see a nostalgic look at pre-safety cocooned America.

[Morrigoon]

Garden Grove does too, as I recall.

Lake Forest basically allows party poppers. But they package them to look like fireworks, as if that makes it better.

[Kevy Baby]

You could always drive to one of the towns in SoCal that still allow "Safe And Sane" fireworks (Lakewood is the only one that comes to mind immediately) and drive around the neighborhoods to see a nostalgic look at pre-safety cocooned America.We will probably be in Chino with friends for said S&S

[Bornieo: Fully Loaded]

It's been a few years since fireworks at the beach swank.

[CoasterMatt]

Screw safe and sane, 4th of July is all about Dumb & Dangerous!!

[Kevy Baby]

Screw safe and sane, 4th of July is all about Dumb & Dangerous!!So, just another ordinary day for you then?

[Prudence]

Well, if anyone else is looking for something to do and wants to combine forces, call or PM and we'll concoct an appropriate level of silly.

[Kevy Baby]

Maybe everyone could just draw fireworks?

[wendybeth]

Maybe everyone could just draw fireworks?

I think that's illegal here.

[lashbear]

Here's how I make homemade Rice-a-Roni: <insert fabulous recipe here>
Voilà! It's really good with a handful of toasted pine nuts. Just sayin'.
Yummy !! Thank you thank you thank you.
Followed by a misfortune cookie (http://www.fal.net/html/misfortu.html) for dessert?
Mine says: "Everything's better with monosodium glutamate" which truly is a misfortune, seeing as how I'm allergic to it. Those cookies are spot-on !

[BarTopDancer]

Nothing says Happy Birthday America like blowing stuff up.

[Disneyphile]

I'll probably spend the day learning Fireworks (CS4). ;)

Oh, and I've now got a fast big kitty (Leopard) on my system now... and I'm about to install Avid Media Composer.

I am in video geek heaven! :D

[RStar]

We will probably be in Chino with friends for said S&S

Chino?

I'm sorry to hear that. ;)

I say any holiday that promotes the use of alcohol, barbeque, and explosives all on the same day is a real holiday!:snap:

[Tref]

Chino?

I'm sorry to hear that. ;)


Are you kidding, Chino is dairy central. If you like milk or milk related products Chino is the place to be on July 4th. Chino is also the only city in California that is often mistaken for a pair of lightweight cotton trousers.

[Drince88]

You could always drive to one of the towns in SoCal that still allow "Safe And Sane" fireworks (Lakewood is the only one that comes to mind immediately) and drive around the neighborhoods to see a nostalgic look at pre-safety cocooned America.

So do some areas not even allow safe and sane? I'm going to my sister's in Clark County Washington (outside Vancouver), and EVERYTHING is legal there, my brother-in-law is a bit of a pyro (although a very safe one, so I don't spend the evening waiting for the major burn to happen), and they live on the end of a cul de sac, so everyone gets together and blows things up from the middle of the street.

AND they haven't been having a heat advisory since last week!

[Alex]

I was considering driving up to Vancouver, WA, for the fireworks show (I'm not a fan of personal fireworks, they annoy me more than entertain me, but the city puts on a huge pyrotechnic display) but am saddened to see it has been canceled this year for lack of funding.

[3894]

Scariest place in the universe to spend July 4: Wyoming. The fireworks start at noon and go until midnight. People are out in the streets letting off biiiiig fireworks so do not attempt to drive anywhere because someone is likely to throw a lit firecracker under you and you're sitting on a big tank of gas. People are shooting off their guns loaded with (you hope) blanks.

A couple of years ago, we were catsitting in tiny Lander on the 4th. Nonstop mayhem. Lots of dry grass. Tiny fire dept. Poor kitty suffered a great deal from the rootin' and tootin' out in the streets.

[RStar]

People here in Garden Grove use the cover of legal fireworks to light off the bigger illegal ones. But since the implamented a $1,00 fine for the first offence it got a lot better last year. And it did seem less rowdy as well. I bet it's even tamer this year as people feel the economic pinch. I know I will.

[Ghoulish Delight]

Awww, but it's such an efficient way of getting these winners (http://www.break.com/usercontent/2009/6/firework-nutshot-fail-771662.html) out of the gene pool.

[wendybeth]

Well, my morning has started out good: Yesterday (as related in Tori's B-Day thread) someone took Tori's new HP mini comp at Fred Meyers. (She'd had it less than a day, and ironically she'd just bought a new bag to carry it in there). The only person who could have took it that we could see was the maintenance dude who was vacuuming the entrance- we'd left it in the cart, but realized it was missing when we got to our car. We'd parked just three car lengths away so it had only been about 10 seconds, but when we ran back in to check the cart it was gone. We could see the guy pushing carts together and walking quickly away, and there was no one else around. I stopped him and he just sort of smirked at me and claimed he didn't see it or anyone, even though he'd been in the foyer the whole time and the cart we saw him pushing in with the others was the same one we'd used. I went to Customer Service where we got the usual 'not our fault' runaround. (She did acknowledge that the guy was a weirdo). Normally it wouldn't be their fault, but since it had been only a few seconds and he was the only one there I thought perhaps they should review their security tape. I insisted on speaking to the manager, and once I made it clear that I wasn't going to let this go she agreed to do so and call us back.

Well, no word until this morning. I was beyond bummed- Tori was so excited to get this, and we were locked into a data package for an item we no longer possessed. Anyway, the store called today and said it was found at the other entrance, at the opposite end of the store. How it migrated to that entrance I can only guess, but I'm just really grateful they found it!!!!:)

[Snowflake]

Yay WB, that is awesome news!

[Andrew]

Anyway, the store called today and said it was found at the other entrance, at the opposite end of the store. How it migrated to that entrance I can only guess, but I'm just really grateful they found it!!!!:)
My guess is the maintenance guy started feeling some heat from management and decided the computer wasn't worth his job, so left it somewhere it would be "anonymously" found. Glad you got it back!

[wendybeth]

My guess is the maintenance guy started feeling some heat from management and decided the computer wasn't worth his job, so left it somewhere it would be "anonymously" found. Glad you got it back!

I hate to say it, because it's a terrible thing to be accused of something if you're innocent, but I think this as well. How else could a cart have gone from one end of the store to the other without something like that being noticed? Even if someone had grabbed the cart, shopped, and gone through checkout you'd think they would have seen this and turned it in. Either way, we're just really happy to have it back.

[Snowflake]

It's a postcard kinda day here. Lovely blue sky, wisps of fog. I wish I was on staycation to enjoy it!

[cirquelover]

I was considering driving up to Vancouver, WA, for the fireworks show (I'm not a fan of personal fireworks, they annoy me more than entertain me, but the city puts on a huge pyrotechnic display) but am saddened to see it has been canceled this year for lack of funding.

You're kidding me!? I had Gary extend his hotel for the weekend so we could see the fireworks from the Portland side, danm1!

[Alex]

It is a very nice day but from here (Financial District) I see not a hint of cloud or fog.

[Alex]

You're kidding me!? I had Gary extend his hotel for the weekend so we could see the fireworks from the Portland side, danm1!

Yes, it's true. At least assuming that this page (http://www.cityofvancouver.us/4thOfJuly.asp) on the City of Vancouver web site is accurate.

[Snowflake]

It is a very nice day but from here (Financial District) I see not a hint of cloud or fog.


I can see the Golden Gate from the office in Emb II, fog coming in there.

[Cadaverous Pallor]

This has been the most solidly June Gloomy June ever. Not one morning of sun, and many afternoons of no sun either. I think if the entirety of June is actually June Gloomy we may have some sort of cataclysm.

[Alex]

Well, you get the better view! I spend all day looking at the Federal Reserve. and the very tippy top of Emb III.

[BarTopDancer]

This has been the most solidly June Gloomy June ever. Not one morning of sun, and many afternoons of no sun either. I think if the entirety of June is actually June Gloomy we may have some sort of cataclysm.

I am so over this weather. As much as the temperature is fine, we need SUN!!!!!

[Alex]

No sun? Finally, LA tempts me to move there.

[mousepod]

Maybe it's because I'm an LA newbie, but I'm loving this "June Gloom". I know that lurking behind that muggy layer is a blazing hot brutal sun. I also know that we'll be enjoying bright sun and high temps for a few months. If this is as close as we get to "seasons" down here, so be it.

[Ghoulish Delight]

I'm a California native and I'm perfectly happy to continue the gloom.

[BarTopDancer]

Maybe it's because I'm an LA newbie, but I'm loving this "June Gloom". I know that lurking behind that muggy layer is a blazing hot brutal sun. I also know that we'll be enjoying bright sun and high temps for a few months. If this is as close as we get to "seasons" down here, so be it.

As much as I don't want the blazing temperature that comes with the sun, this gloom just zaps my energy.

[Capt Jack]

sunny & 70* here in SD

but yeah, been grey every morning here too...

[innerSpaceman]

This has been the most solidly June Gloomy June ever. Not one morning of sun, and many afternoons of no sun either. I think if the entirety of June is actually June Gloomy we may have some sort of cataclysm.
Not true.

As someone who is trying to get a tan for summer, I can tell you that there have been many mornings - - in fog-enshrouded West L.A. - -that have been sunny. Only once or twice on a weekend, but many more "unavailable" to me on weekdays. (I wondered how all the barechested boys at Gay Pride got tans at this time of year ... they must all be out of work).


That said, it has indeed been the gloomiest June in years ... prompting many to rejoice at the return of the not-beloved-till-gone infamous weather pattern. The apocalypse was defeated.

Um, until it RAINED.


Never in June.


This is not your Papa's June Gloom.

It's the New Joon Koon Gloom ... of the Apocalypse!! :evil:

[Morrigoon]

Love love LOVE June Gloom :) Pretty consistent with the "natives love it, transplants hate it" trend.

I remember a summer a few years ago (4 or 5 summers ago) where it was remarkably cool most of the summer. There were a few hot days, but overall it was a pretty cool summer. I'm pulling for a repeat of that :)

[Not Afraid]

LOVE the gloom. Being outside most of the day, gloom makes me happy in ways that extreme heat makes me grumpy.

Oh, and secret project had progressed to the "offer" stage.

[Ghoulish Delight]

Love love LOVE June Gloom :) Pretty consistent with the "natives love it, transplants hate it" trend.
Actually, MP is a transplant and loves it. CP is essentially a native (here all but the first few months of her life) and hates it. So that's not much of a trend, really.

[Prudence]

I don't know how I feel about June Gloom. On the one hand, it's strangely comforting. On the other hand, I did move down here for the sun factor. I suppose I will appreciate the grey more once I've survived a summer here.

[Morrigoon]

Actually, MP is a transplant and loves it. CP is essentially a native (here all but the first few months of her life) and hates it. So that's not much of a trend, really.

Ask a wider variety of people and the trend becomes more apparent.

[blueerica]

What does indifference mean?

[innerSpaceman]

I don't know what it means and I don't care.

[Ghoulish Delight]

Put this man in cell #1, and give him a drink.

[BarTopDancer]

Actually, MP is a transplant and loves it. CP is essentially a native (here all but the first few months of her life) and hates it. So that's not much of a trend, really.

Born and raised in HB, hate it.

[Not Afraid]

So Cal Native - love it.

[katiesue]

Nor Cal native - hate it.

[Alex]

Lapsed Lutheran and former Jehovah's Witness - Don't care one way or another about clouds but if the start and ending temperatures for the day are below 60 then I'm a happy man.

[JWBear]

Another SoCal native that loves it.

[innerSpaceman]

Eastern transplant - - hate it in June, would love it in September. Go figure.

[Bornieo: Fully Loaded]

It's 80 and partly cloudy here in Simi Valley. There's a nice breeeeeeze though. Nice!

[Cadaverous Pallor]

No sun? Finally, LA tempts me to move there.

Maybe it's because I'm an LA newbie, but I'm loving this "June Gloom".

Love love LOVE June Gloom :) Pretty consistent with the "natives love it, transplants hate it" trend.

Ask a wider variety of people and the trend becomes more apparent.Actually, the more people I complain to ask, the more apparent it is that I'm in a minority, regardless of place of origin. Apparently most people that live here - whether born and raised, or transplanted - hate the hot summer. I find it hilarious. I seem to have the right body metabolism/chemistry/whatever for this climate, as I'm cold all the time and adore heat. Yes, I'm a reptile, give me a hot rock in the sun any day.

This ugly, brooding, makes-you-squint weather is the worst possible for me. Puts me in an awful mood, even if, or rather, especially if it clears up. Stupid f'n wishy washy weather. SHOULD I WEAR A SWEATER OR NOT????

I do love rain, but that's probably only because it's a novelty to me, and nicely decisive.

[innerSpaceman]

This ugly, brooding, makes-you-squint weather is the worst possible for me. Puts me in an awful mood, even if, or rather, especially if it clears up. Stupid f'n wishy washy weather. SHOULD I WEAR A SWEATER OR NOT????.

Ugh, HATE when it clears up. I mean, I like the clear. But you never know which days will clear and which won't, so I never know how to dress in the mornings that are blecchy.

Also, for my attempts at a summer tan ... I can only do this in the relative morning. Once my day gets going, I have no time to sunscreen my entire body and sit in the sun for long enough to make it worthwhile. Plus, my pool gets all crowded in the afternoon ... and in the mornings it's my private oasis like the rich life I was supposed to have.

[Drince88]

Yes, it's true. At least assuming that this page (http://www.cityofvancouver.us/4thOfJuly.asp) on the City of Vancouver web site is accurate.
Wow, they're cancelling basically the whole darn thing. That's disappointing. We always just stay at my sisters, but the sister who lives in Hillsboro and will be visiting will appreciate not having to deal with the traffic that creates.

At 9:00am on Saturday, as I was finishing up a training walk, the radio said the park I was leaving had a heat index of 100 (I think they were off, but it was well above 90!) It actually might rain a little here soon, but the roads are buckling from the heat and lack of afternoon thunderstorms. This may be the first afternoon thunderstorm this month! When the NWS issues heat advisories that continue on for days, that's bitch-worthy weather, in my book!

[cirquelover]

I am truly shocked that they are canceling the Vancouver fireworks display this year! I'm really glad we didn't reserve a riverview room last year for this year and hopefully we don't have any other ressies. Maybe we can go to the beach and watch them over the bay or just watch all our neighbors illegal displays.

[innerSpaceman]

In fact, in a move to save the economy after nearly 14 billion dollars of taxpayer money have been given away to banks with absolutely no loosening of the credit system .... Independence Day is being cancelled this year entirely. America has nothing to celebrate.

[€uroMeinke]

I long for sitting by the pool in the sun - but I seem to save that activity for October & January and sometimes April.

[Kevy Baby]

Are you kidding, Chino is dairy central.Not any more. There are very few dairies in Chino any more.

"She said to take that thing I play with and put it where it stinks. So I took my bowling ball to Chino."

Chino?

I'm sorry to hear that. ;)It is more about spending time with friends than the locale.

[ozron]

I am truly shocked that they are canceling the Vancouver fireworks display this year! I'm really glad we didn't reserve a riverview room last year for this year and hopefully we don't have any other ressies. Maybe we can go to the beach and watch them over the bay or just watch all our neighbors illegal displays.

You could always catch the Portland display on the Willamette. Come down during the day for the Blues Festival and stick around for the fireworks!

[lashbear]

Awww, but it's such an efficient way of getting these winners (http://www.break.com/usercontent/2009/6/firework-nutshot-fail-771662.html) out of the gene pool.
is it wrong that I laughed so hard at that ?


...and all the talk of the Joon Gloom etc makes me want to transplant myself to LA.

Sigh. Maybe when we retire we'll get a holiday house there. Right next door to Disneyland.

[Disneyphile]

Oh, and secret project had progressed to the "offer" stage.Awesome! :snap:

[bewitched]

Actually, the more people I complain to ask, the more apparent it is that I'm in a minority, regardless of place of origin. Apparently most people that live here - whether born and raised, or transplanted - hate the hot summer. I find it hilarious. I seem to have the right body metabolism/chemistry/whatever for this climate, as I'm cold all the time and adore heat. Yes, I'm a reptile, give me a hot rock in the sun any day.

This ugly, brooding, makes-you-squint weather is the worst possible for me. Puts me in an awful mood, even if, or rather, especially if it clears up. Stupid f'n wishy washy weather. SHOULD I WEAR A SWEATER OR NOT????

I do love rain, but that's probably only because it's a novelty to me, and nicely decisive.

I am normally like this...the hotter the better IMO; Houston rarely bothered me. However, the recent KC weather is killin' me. We've had heat indexes of 110*+. Bleh. Not even the pool (where we spend 3/4 of the summer) is refreshing. I'd be happy to have some nice cool rain about now. (As an example, it was 95* today and actually felt pretty comfortable.)

I love rain on an occasional weekend, especially when it's chilly and I can curl up by the fire with a good book/movie. I also love rain at night (w/out the thunder), it lulls me to sleep.

[blueerica]

Actually, the more people I complain to ask, the more apparent it is that I'm in a minority, regardless of place of origin. Apparently most people that live here - whether born and raised, or transplanted - hate the hot summer.

Really?

I found that a LOT of people in So Cal complained about June gloom, and then proceeded to complain about the heat later in the summer. Same in Utah, same in Michigan, same (presumably) everywhere.

Utah example: we just had nearly a month of rain every day. Up until this week (Monday, Tuesday Wednesday(yesterday), to be specific) we only had two days without rain in June. Everyone was bitching and moaning about OMG we just wantz the sunz! I just think isn't it awesome that our reservoirs are between 80 and 100%?! Plus, I know I'll hear the bitching come July/August. By the time August comes around, all this pretty growth will be dead. The real dog days of summer.

Michigan example: I remember this from being there, but Facebook has served as a reminder that all that complaining takes place there too. First it's the snow, how cold, how cold, how cold. Then, for about a week, everyone was all stoked about the awesome weather. Now, it's time to cry about the heat and humidity.

I guess all I'm thinking is that no matter where you are, there's always something for someone to complain about. It may seem like everyone feels a certain way, but a lot of times it ends up being random people voicing an opinion. It's why there's a Storm Watch for a drizzle, and local TV personalities making the same damned comments no matter where you live - and it's always "What about this ____."

Well, I better go get to work. I'd rather complain about work.

[Cadaverous Pallor]

I am normally like this...the hotter the better IMO; Houston rarely bothered me. However, the recent KC weather is killin' me. We've had heat indexes of 110*+. Bleh. I may love heat, but I'm not superhuman. Bleh indeed.

I found that a LOT of people in So Cal complained about June gloom, and then proceeded to complain about the heat later in the summer. Same in Utah, same in Michigan, same (presumably) everywhere. What I've encountered when I say "This June gloom is awful" is almost always variations on "well it sure beats the heat, delaying summer is fine by me, I like it this way."

I may be extra biased because I grew up near the hottest part of the San Fernando Valley without central air conditioning. We had a wall unit in my parents' bedroom and when it was too hot to sleep we'd all bring sleeping bags in their room. We couldn't afford to run it all the time though, and even so, who would want to stay in the bedroom all day? Summer days were spent in the sprinklers as it was almost impossible to stay inside otherwise. I'd wake up in the morning and put on my swimsuit. To me, summer IS 95 degrees plus. (Now that I live and work in a/c I'm sure I'm no longer as tough as I used to be.)

[LSPoorEeyorick]

I'm a transplant and I like June Gloom to a point. I like it more than September Hellember.

[BarTopDancer]

I don't mind the cool temperatures that come with June Gloom and I'm not really fond of 100+ weather, even though I have AC now it makes it much more tolerable. The lack of sun in June Gloom (and December/winter) zaps my energy and significantly changes my mood. The days where we have had sun you can find me in it, sucking up as much vitamin D as I can get.

No matter where you survey people will bitch about the weather.

[innerSpaceman]

I don't miss winter, but I DO miss more pronounced seasons. And, ya know, "typical" American seasons that were made typical because they were eastern and mostly the same as European.

Springtime is glorious. I want all the new growth and slightly warmer weather to be accompanied by sunshine. It usually is, in early Spring, but I want that same sunny to segue seemlessly into summer without this weird Gloom Season in between.

I've lived in California 70% of my life, and I still don't like it. That doesn't mean I prefer blazing hot September. I just like the sun, and I want my gloom in wintertime.

[SzczerbiakManiac]

I have no idea what to do on the 4th. I like things that go splody in the sky, but super mega overwhelming crowds/traffic sometimes blow my circuits and send me offline for the rest of the evening. Don't want to sit home bored, though. Dunno what to do. Any suggestions?You may not know, but for years the city of Torrance has put on a nice fireworks show (http://www.ci.torrance.ca.us/Parks/7652.htm) and Independence Day soiree. Now granted, it will be crowded, but nowhere near a Disneyland level of (in)humanity.

But if you want to play boardgames all night, I'd love to join you. I currently have no 4th plans.

[3894]

Michigan example: First it's the snow, how cold, how cold, how cold. Then, for about a week, everyone was all stoked about the awesome weather. Now, it's time to cry about the heat and humidity.


If you're talking about rural Michigan, just know that farmers complain 24/7 about the weather. It's either too hot, too cold, too wet, or too dry.

Speaking of rural, an honest-to-goodness fox has taken up residence in our village. I've been hearing about her but finally caught a glimpse this morning as she darted from a tree across the street to our woods.

[Tref]

If you're talking about rural Michigan, just know that farmers complain 24/7 about the weather.


Damn! Those farmers need to get some sleep!

[Gemini Cricket]

With all the sad tidings in the atmosphere right now, I have to add a personal one. My grandmother is in bad shape. Her kidneys failed on her and they can't put her on dialysis because her heart won't be able to take it.

Sad fu cking day.
:(

[innerSpaceman]

OMG GC. Hugs and more hugs. :( indeed. Cheese and all.

[Tom]

I'm sorry, GC. Many hugs from here, as well.

[Morrigoon]

Hugs GC

[BarTopDancer]

Ugh! So sorry GC! :(

[JWBear]

<<<HUGS>>>

[Disneyphile]

GC, big thoughts and prayers to you and the family right now!

[~MS~]

(((GC)))) Spend as much time with her as you can ...and know you're both in our prayers.

[CoasterMatt]

Hugs and prayers from Rose and I, Brad.

[katiesue]

Hugs and prayers from Madzer and I as well.

[cirquelover]

<<<Hugs>>>

[Cadaverous Pallor]

Hugs, Brad.

[DreadPirateRoberts]

I'm sorry.:(

[Not Afraid]

Hugs to you, Brad.

[Gemini Cricket]

I just got back from seeing my grandma. Her kidneys have failed and her heart is too weak to put on dialysis. Her body is just failing all over. Ugh. Not much anyone can do...

[Gemini Cricket]

Forgot to thank everyone properly...

Thank you. I appreciate it.
:)

[Morrigoon]

Haha, wow... I just saw one of my parents' friends type "OMG" to her daughter on fb. For some reason I find that hilarious.

[Disneyphile]

I just got back from seeing my grandma. Her kidneys have failed and her heart is too weak to put on dialysis. Her body is just failing all over. Ugh. Not much anyone can do...We're here for you! *hugs*

[alphabassettgrrl]

GC- **hugs** I'm sorry.

Pru- you might be able to find a fireworks display and get near it. Near enough to see, but not quite in the crush of the crowd nightmareness that surrounds anything interesting here in SoCal.

As far as the June Gloom goes, I'm perfectly happy to skip it. Like you say, iSm, I miss seasons, but I don't miss cold in any capacity.

Quiet day here. Nice to have a break from all the dance recitals (6 companies in June, 2 in May, 2 more in July). I did some biking and some shopping and it's all good.

[3894]

Peace to GC.

Haha, wow... I just saw one of my parents' friends type "OMG" to her daughter on fb. For some reason I find that hilarious.

We decrepit ones have to do that sort of thing tongue-firmly-in-cheek, that's for sure. Several years ago, I saw an actual Wisconsin license plate on an actual car: OMG WTF. I'm wondering if that one is still on the road.

So. Hubbo was lifting a suitcase into the shuttle that takes you from the terminal to the rental cars. He smashed his shin against the stairs. Naturally, he refused - refused! - to have it looked at A week-and-a-half on, it's red and it's swollen. That is not a bruise.

This is a big deal because we have plans to hike. There is always a Plan B but this is one of those times where it would be so much easier if we could stay with Plan A. He's finally having it looked at this morning. Wish him luck.

[Strangler Lewis]

Sorry to hear about it, GC. I had hoped it would be another unsubstantiated rumor. It's nice you got to see her.

[Alex]

Naturally, he refused - refused! - to have it looked at

I was proud of his dedication to being male.

He's finally having it looked at this morning.

And now I'm disappointed in him.

[3894]

And now I'm disappointed in him.

You underestimate what a world-class noodge I can be.

Or maybe you don't.

[Stan4dSteph]

So. Hubbo was lifting a suitcase into the shuttle that takes you from the terminal to the rental cars. He smashed his shin against the stairs. Naturally, he refused - refused! - to have it looked at A week-and-a-half on, it's red and it's swollen. That is not a bruise.Been there, done that, have the scar to prove it. Good antibiotics and healing vibes to him.

[3894]

Been there, done that, have the scar to prove it. Good antibiotics and healing vibes to him.

Thanks, Steph.

[Mousey Girl]

I am off to a job fair. I really don't want to go, but I really need to go. *sigh*

[cirquelover]

I have now picked about 25 pounds of strawberries. I've made 18 pies, 30+ jars of jam and a whole bunch of chocolate covered strawberries. I'm ready for a break before blueberry season begins!

[blueerica]

I just got back from seeing my grandma. Her kidneys have failed and her heart is too weak to put on dialysis. Her body is just failing all over. Ugh. Not much anyone can do...

I know all too well what you're saying. I'm heading to Cali tonight to say what will probably be goodbye to my grandma.

On my last trip a couple of weeks ago, I got to see her a few times, and it was very nice. She was coherent and surprisingly conversational with me, when it seemed she was shy-er in groups or with others. Before I flew out there, we'd just learned she had liver and lung cancer, then upon my arrival we learned of her brain tumor, collapsed lung and clot in her leg. This week, her kidneys began to fail and her heartbeat is very weak.

So, I booked a last-minute flight to Cali in the realization that I can miss her funeral/memorial. I don't want to miss another chance to see my grandma.


(((HUGS GC))) I'm so glad you got to visit with her.

[Kevy Baby]

You underestimate what a world-class noodge I can be.

Or maybe you don't.Personally, I would rather not test it. I will take your word for it.

[Gemini Cricket]

I'm glad I got to see my grandma. :)

I'm having a blue day today. Decided to stay home from work and just chill.

[Chernabog]

I have now picked about 25 pounds of strawberries. I've made 18 pies, 30+ jars of jam and a whole bunch of chocolate covered strawberries. I'm ready for a break before blueberry season begins!


Raaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaspberries!


:D

[JWBear]

Delish!

[Betty]

So - do you make a pie with the fresh berries (a la Marie Calendars) or this is baked in some fashion?

[Kevy Baby]

And would you make me a chocolate cream pie?

[JWBear]

I want my mother's glazed strawberry pie now. Need to get some good strawberries and make one.

[Drince88]

Hugs, GC.

[Bornieo: Fully Loaded]

Best thoughts always GC.

[Cadaverous Pallor]

I have now picked about 25 pounds of strawberries. I've made 18 pies, 30+ jars of jam and a whole bunch of chocolate covered strawberries. I'm ready for a break before blueberry season begins!What do you do with all those pies and jam?

[Morrigoon]

For a change, you could make a Dutch Baby (http://southernfood.about.com/od/pancakesandwaffles/r/blbb699.htm)

[Alex]

Hmm...that's not how I make dutch babies. Put the butter in the batter seems wrong.

[Morrigoon]

There seem to be many variations. I've only made one once and no longer know where that cookbook is, but my recipe was using blueberries.

[Cadaverous Pallor]

Why "baby"?

[Morrigoon]

Not a clue

[Alex]

This recipe (http://www.lesliehawes.com/wordpress/?p=980) is pretty close to what I grew up with, where you cook the dutch baby in the butter rather than mixing the butter into the batter. Since the first thing we did on removing from the oven was sprinkle liberally with sugar it was important that it be "wet" so that the sugar would dissolve and stick.

No idea on the "baby" part of the name. I remember I tried to find that out a couple years ago and couldn't (it is hard to filter out the Dutch baby name sites that keep coming up).

[Morrigoon]

This recipe (http://www.lesliehawes.com/wordpress/?p=980) is pretty close to what I grew up with, where you cook the dutch baby in the butter rather than mixing the butter into the batter. Since the first thing we did on removing from the oven was sprinkle liberally with sugar it was important that it be "wet" so that the sugar would dissolve and stick.

No idea on the "baby" part of the name. I remember I tried to find that out a couple years ago and couldn't (it is hard to filter out the Dutch baby name sites that keep coming up).

OMFGthatwasgood! (Just made one using your recipe, reduced a bit to fit my glass tart pan)

[Drince88]

This is the first summer that I've had a desire to do anything outside in the summer besides basic yard maintenance. When it's too hot/humid to walk at 6 am, it's very frustrating.

[lashbear]

This recipe (http://www.lesliehawes.com/wordpress/?p=980) is pretty close to what I grew up with, where you cook the dutch baby in the butter rather than mixing the butter into the batter. .

OMFGthatwasgood! (Just made one using your recipe, reduced a bit to fit my glass tart pan)

That recipe in Australia would be called a Yorkshire Pudding (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yorkshire_pudding) and we serve it with roast beef. :eek: Obviously we don't use sugar or syrup with it when serving, we just pour gravy over it.

I see on the Wiki page it actually cross-references with "Dutch Baby Pancake" (at the bottom of the page)

[Betty]

That reminds me of popovers or yorkshire pudding. ( I see I'm not the only one Lash!)

I've never heard of those but I'm going to have to give them a try.

[3894]

That recipe in Australia would be called a Yorkshire Pudding (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yorkshire_pudding) and we serve it with roast beef.

Ever made it with roast chicken? Pour out most of the drippings from the pan and proceed in the usual way. Divine.

[Kevy Baby]

For a change, you could make a Dutch BabyDoes it involve Dutch people having sex?

[Tref]

Does it involve Dutch people having sex?

I hope not! I can tell you Solvang has really gone downhill since the Dutch moved in.

[Not Afraid]

Yup, Yorkshire Pudding if you use beef drippings, Popovers if you use butter. I need to make popovers again when I have my life back.

[Alex]

Don't think I've ever had Yorkshire pudding, but while a popover and a Dutch baby are essentially the same thing (eggs, milk, and flour) I find them to be pretty different eating experiences. The middle of a Dutch baby is a different texture and much heavier.

This:
http://whatscookingamerica.net/Bread/SinglePopover.JPG

Versus this (spoiler simply because it is a big picture):


http://katek.files.wordpress.com/2006/10/dutch-baby.jpg

Saturday morning's when I was a kid I'd make on that size while our parents were still in bed and we'd pour half a bag (it seemed) of sugar over it and the three of us would eat the whole thing while watching cartoons.

Obviously, this was before we'd reached the ages that my sisters and I decided we'd rather kill each other than watch TV together.

[Mousey Girl]

I got to talk for a minute with Mike Farrell. I have now met 2 members of the MASH cast. I used to climb into bed with my mom and watch MASH with her.

I am by no means a celeb chaser, or one to go gaga when meeting a famous person. It was just nice to be able to say Hi and visit for a couple of minutes.

[Ghoulish Delight]

Ah Hunnicutt, always the voice of reason, except when he was egging Hawkeye on :)


Hey, I've got an idea. Why don't I wait until the hottest part of the hottest day of the month, THEN decide to take walk to the market.

All you effers who were begging for the June Gloom to end, I hate you a little right now.

[Not Afraid]

Yes, the heat is here damnit! Thurston had to wear his cool coat to take a walk on 2nd Street. Of course some idiot had to comment loudly to her friends about how one shouldn't make their dog wear stupid-looking clothing. She should be glad I was not in a surly mood because she wasn't so attractively dressed herself.

[3894]

I got to talk for a minute with Mike Farrell. I have now met 2 members of the MASH cast.

Very cool, Mousey Girl.

I haven't met many Hollywood types but I also have met two members of the MASH cast. I've met William Christopher and Gary Burghoff. Those two guys are the absolute soul of generosity and that is no gush, just the truth. For many years, they have raised money for a group home for autistic adults.

I'm smiling now, just thinking about those two. :snap:

So. My beagle son Jack went AWOL. We have a good fence around the back yard. He was out there for a few minutes and then ... he wasn't there. Had someone let him in the house? A frantic search didn't find Jack.

Then the hubbo happened to look out the front door: Jack! He had somehow gotten out of the back ... but how?
Had he jumped on top of the compost bin and jumped over the fence???

No. He took the traditional route: he dug his way out. We found the hole and stopped it up with a big rock. I can't tell you how green about the gills this makes me.

[Alex]

Sooooo.....I'm stuck at REI waiting for Lani to end this episode of Shopping Hell. Had to go inside because it is 426 degrees out.

Smart phone not really helping though obviously it facilitates bitching.

[lashbear]

Ever made it with roast chicken? Pour out most of the drippings from the pan and proceed in the usual way. Divine.
YUM!! Thanks for the idea. :snap:

I got to talk for a minute with Mike Farrell. I have now met 2 members of the MASH cast. I used to climb into bed with my mom and watch MASH with her.
MASH is one of my fave childhood memories, and now when I watch it, I get MORE of the jokes than I did before.

Of course some idiot had to comment loudly to her friends about how one shouldn't make their dog wear stupid-looking clothing. She should be glad I was not in a surly mood because she wasn't so attractively dressed herself.
I wish I was with you - I would have made a comment to the effect of 'one dog in a coat discussing another dog in a coat'

No. He took the traditional route: he dug his way out. We found the hole and stopped it up with a big rock. I can't tell you how green about the gills this makes me.
I sense a concreted back-yard coming up. If you paint it green it looks more natural.

Sooooo.....I'm stuck at REI waiting for Lani to end this episode of Shopping Hell. Had to go inside because it is 426 degrees out..
*swings a watch in front of Alex on a chain* "You looooove shopping. Shopping is your friend."

BTW: what's REI ?

[katiesue]

So I'm at Vons last night and there's a huge confrontation between some kid and an undercover guy and the manager. They're yelling at the guy to just leave the store or they're calling the cops. Apparently they caught him shoplifting some whiskey. Kid won't leave and is yelling and wanting a manager (manger was there) and on and on. Finally the security gaurd points out to him he's still wearing his blockbuster uniform and nametag so they can eaisly find him. He finally left - idiot.

[JWBear]

So I'm at Vons last night and there's a huge confrontation between some kid and an undercover guy and the manager. They're yelling at the guy to just leave the store or they're calling the cops. Apparently they caught him shoplifting some whiskey. Kid won't leave and is yelling and wanting a manager (manger was there) and on and on. Finally the security gaurd points out to him he's still wearing his blockbuster uniform and nametag so they can eaisly find him. He finally left - idiot.

Ahhh... Youth.

[alphabassettgrrl]

I'm glad little Jack didn't wander far!

One more dance show- DONE! This school's owner is young enough to still be hot. She looks amazing. Nice to have a little bit of something since we're trapped in a sea of underage girls during these things.

On the other hand, I don't have enough calories left in today's allotment to have beer tonight. ::sigh::

[Not Afraid]

Thurston wore out 3 large Goldens tonight. I thin we'll all sleep well.

[Tref]

Thurston wore out 3 large Goldens tonight. I thin we'll all sleep well.

I can only imagine.

[Bornieo: Fully Loaded]

If you have some time, spend some of it here. http://www.textsfromlastnight.com/

[Not Afraid]

If you have some time, spend some of it here. http://www.textsfromlastnight.com/

It's not just us:

(479): I didn't know that people actually queef. Is this a real thing?
(1-479): I believe so, yes.
(479): Would you be offended if I asked if it has happened to you?

[lashbear]

OK, now that I've actually looked up Queef, I need to go back and re-write all my queef posts.

Why don't I look these words up before I use them in sentences? :rolleyes:

Good queef, Charlie Brown !

[alphabassettgrrl]

Weight is holding at "down".

It was a gorgeous day and we went for a 14 mile mountain bike ride.

Dinner is salmon and cheesy potatoes.

Gotta love it. :)

[bewitched]

Heat finally broke...YAY! :D

Hey, Helen... (http://www.rei.com/)

Olivia is playing some online game where the goal is to do certain things (like go to high school) to get older (you start at 10yo). Ah, youth.

[Mousey Girl]

I wish our heat would break, but it won't until October.

The Boy left for his dad's in a good mood. The BF got his golfcart running. Our back yard is huge, so there is plenty of room to play. When you add no grass to sprinlkers and golfcart, our patio is quite the muddy mess.

I just threw the 14yr old off. It still doesn't have seats.

[Kevy Baby]

OK, now that I've actually looked up Queef, I need to go back and re-write all my queef posts.

Why don't I look these words up before I use them in sentences? :rolleyes:

Good queef, Charlie Brown !Why let facts get in the way of your reality?

[Gn2Dlnd]

If you have some time, spend some of it here. http://www.textsfromlastnight.com/

(972): they say celebs die in threes. leave it to billy mays to throw in one extra COMPLETELY FREE!
HA!

[Morrigoon]

lol

[Melonballer]

lol

[Cadaverous Pallor]

OK, now that I've actually looked up Queef, I need to go back and re-write all my queef posts.

Why don't I look these words up before I use them in sentences? :rolleyes:

Good queef, Charlie Brown !I read this post and I cacked myself.

[Gn2Dlnd]

col

[Prudence]

Finally some heat in LA and I'm in DC "enjoying" the humidity. This is not fair. I'll bet it'll be all gloomy again by Wednesday.

[Moonliner]

Finally some heat in LA and I'm in DC "enjoying" the humidity. This is not fair. I'll bet it'll be all gloomy again by Wednesday.

Humidity? You think THIS is humidity? Stick around for a while.... :D

[Alex]

Looks like you should be preferring DC if you want more heat and less humidity.

According to Weather.com, DC is 6 degrees warmer (three hours later in the day) and 15% less humid than LA.

[Prudence]

Humidity? You think THIS is humidity? Stick around for a while.... :D

Only until Wednesday!

I'm trying to decide what to do tomorrow. I get out of my training thing-y around 3-3:30. National Gallery of Art closes at 5, and I'd have to check my bag, so I'm not really up for that. Ford's Theater is, of course, closed. Saw all I need to see at Air and Space last time. Try for more at American History or Natural History? Sculpture or Botanical Gardens? Simply stroll down the mall? What to do?!

[Prudence]

Maybe I'll go to Arlington. I haven't done that yet.

[innerSpaceman]

Arlington's Cool. If getting a gander at the Constitution is your bag, the National Archives can handle that for you pretty quick.

Otherwise, given my druthers with no big plans, I could hang out inside the Lincoln or Jefferson Memorials for a while and get all the OH YES i can handle.

[alphabassettgrrl]

Botanical gardens!

[Prudence]

I wept like a baby at the Constitution last month, so that's been done already. Seen both Jefferson and Lincoln and (heresy time) I'm not super fond of the Lincoln Memorial. Loved Jefferson, but want to see something new. Heard from someone that the botanical gardens here kind of suck. But, still might give them a peek. Otherwise, I think I'll head out to Arlington today so I can say I've seen it.

[JWBear]

If you haven't already, check out the FDR Memorial.

[Moonliner]

I wept like a baby at the Constitution last month, so that's been done already. Seen both Jefferson and Lincoln and (heresy time) I'm not super fond of the Lincoln Memorial. Loved Jefferson, but want to see something new. Heard from someone that the botanical gardens here kind of suck. But, still might give them a peek. Otherwise, I think I'll head out to Arlington today so I can say I've seen it.

Arlington? Meh. Try Old Town Alexandria and the Torpedo Factory or take the tour bus down to Mt. Vernon.

[Not Afraid]

Damn dogs had me up at 5 am. It wasn't even light out!

[RStar]

Damn dogs had me up at 5 am. It wasn't even light out!

That's why I have an enclosed patio for my cats and a back yard for my dog. They don't bother me one bit at night.

[wolfy999]

But some of us let our animals run our lives.....;)

[Not Afraid]

Hey, I had 4 dogs. I was outnumbered.