Sooooo.....

[ToriBear]

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

Isn't that the truth? :D

[JWBear]

Hey, I had 4 dogs. I was outnumbered.

4 dogs can't possibly be more controlling than 10 cats!

[Not Afraid]

4 dogs can't possibly be more controlling than 10 cats!

Weight wise, they win. Let's do the math:

Cats = (9+13+11+6+8+13+10+11+12+15) 108 Pounds
Dogs = (19+55+85+70) =239 pounds

I weight more that the collective cat population but the dogs combined weight MUCH more than me.

[Morrigoon]

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

Agreed. Do Mt. Vernon.

[alphabassettgrrl]

Leftover chicken curry for lunch.... yum.

[Prudence]

Didn't have the time to do Mt. Vernon - didn't get out of training until late afternoon.

So, I went to the grave of the esteemed William Howard Taft. And came back to the hotel. Because walking around in a suit and dress shoes in this heat sucks.

[alphabassettgrrl]

Pru- did you take pictures? :)

I uploaded pictures of my graduation. http://flickr.com/gp/62443344@N00/j905s6

:) Working on the Butterflies Alive! now.

[Chernabog]

In just three more weeks, I will be available for dog-adopting. WOOT!

[Not Afraid]

If you want a pug, I can steer you in the right direction.

[RStar]

The company I have worked for these past 28 years is having a hard time. Layoffs occured today. My mother and my son were among them. My 22 year old son can find a job, but my 66 year old mother who can't drive is another story. Her SSI is nill, and minimum wage won't cover it. I'm worried about her.....

:(

[JWBear]

In just three more weeks, I will be available for dog-adopting. WOOT!

If you want a pug, I can steer you in the right direction.

For a second there, I thought Cherny might be a new member of this site (http://www.thedoghouse.org/members/) (possibly NSFW)... :evil:

[alphabassettgrrl]

In just three more weeks, I will be available for dog-adopting. WOOT!

Sweet! Lots of dogs in the rescues that would love to join your home!

[RStar]

The company I have worked for these past 28 years is having a hard time. Layoffs occured today. My mother and my son were among them. My 22 year old son can find a job, but my 66 year old mother who can't drive is another story. Her SSI is nill, and minimum wage won't cover it. I'm worried about her.....

:(

And I just found out that Unemployment is only about 40% of her pay. Ouch.

[RStar]

And now I may also be needing to look for a new job from the sound of things.

On a good note, we just got back from my wifes back doctor. Everything looks good (L4-L5 bone fusion) and she will be starting PT soon.

[Stan4dSteph]

I can feel the love.

[RStar]

I can feel the love.

Thanks, now I have "Can you feel the love tonight" stuck in my head. ;)

[Betty]

~~~~~STRESS~~~~~

[blueerica]

Is it possible to Rick-roll oneself?

[Morrigoon]

So I'm sitting there ay Haus of Pizza, nonchalantly enjoying my Panzerotti and writing posts about the effects of post-war periods and resulting decandence in the culture, when a lady at the table across from me passes out in the middle of laughing at something, and falls off her chair. She woke up, and the ladies started to close up their meal to get her home when she conked out again. She still tried to decline medical treatment, but one of the waitresses had already called 911, and didn't call them off when the lady said she just wanted her friend to take her home.
Turns out the fire station is just behind (across a small street) the restaurant, so the EMTs (okay, hot firemen) simply walked over with their kit, and met her right out the front door as she was leaving and made her sit down and let them check her out. Good thing, too. One faint can be chalked up to a lot of recoverable conditions, but two in a row is a sign that something DEFINITELY ain't right!

And that's all I know because then I walked over to the hair place.

[lashbear]

too much gin with lunch.

[CoasterMatt]

too much gin with lunch.
Is there such a thing?

[lashbear]

nott in mai oppinionion, fossifer.

[Gn2Dlnd]

My grandma does that, low blood pressure due to medications. Scares the hell out of people.

[lindyhop]

They're engaged! (How did he get so grown up?)

[alphabassettgrrl]

R-Star : that's great news! I hope her PT goes well.

I got 25 miles on the bike today. Yay! I've got 4 days on the bike now- when does the weight start dropping?

[ozron]

Started rehearsals for Evita this evening. Music rehearsals this week - we start staging after the director gets in on Sunday. I'm very excited. Oddly, I'm a little nervous - new company and director for me.

[Nephythys]

did you know a neutered dog will still get it on with a girl dog in heat?:eek:

[alphabassettgrrl]

Even if they're not in heat, sometimes. They'll try, anyway.

[Strangler Lewis]

Last year, my neutered male dog was repeatedly mounted by the spayed female he spent the summer with.

Don't tell the Mormons.

[Betty]

My neutered dog just humps his stuffed animal dog toy.

[Betty]

R-Star : that's great news! I hope her PT goes well.

I got 25 miles on the bike today. Yay! I've got 4 days on the bike now- when does the weight start dropping?

If you're building muscle, you may not notice a drop in weight. You will notice a difference in measurements though.

[JWBear]

Soooo... I received a friend request on Facebook from a HS friend I haven't heard from in over 20 years. It seems that he has become a semi-famous musician in the interim. Interesting.

[Ghoulish Delight]

Anyone we might have semi heard of?

[Alex]

My guess: Janis Joplin.

[Tref]

My guess: Janis Joplin.

I say, Scott Joplin.

[JWBear]

Anyone we might have semi heard of?

Jon Wahl (Clawhammer, The Amadans)

[Tref]

Jon Wahl (Clawhammer, The Amadans)

No, I think its Scott Joplin.

[alphabassettgrrl]

Thanks. I'm just being impatient. :)

[Morrigoon]

I do not regret the decision to get my hair done yesterday. I felt more confident, looked good, etc. :)

Oh, and the interview went pretty well, IMHO

[alphabassettgrrl]

Excellent news!

Me- short bike ride, lunch, and I mowed my lawn. Exciting day, huh?

[Snowflake]

I do not regret the decision to get my hair done yesterday. I felt more confident, looked good, etc. :)

Oh, and the interview went pretty well, IMHO

VMM

I'm sending good job vibes!

[Not Afraid]

Tonight I am sleeping with a dinosaur named Lulu. She's a terribly cute English Bulldog but the noises she makes!!!

Tomorrow, I have one night at home with my own little dinosaur then I move into the Hound category with Cooper the PBGV (Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen). He and his Shih tzu sister Zoi will be romping with Thurston. Thurston and Cooper LOVE each other.

Cooper looks a bit like this guy:

http://www.canadogs.com/images/PBGVadult.JPG

Then the holidays are over and I may get my bed back.

[alphabassettgrrl]

Hounds are awesome!

[Not Afraid]

I believe the BBGV is a relative of your hound.

[alphabassettgrrl]

Heavy chest, forward leaning, droopy ears... you might be right! I'm not familiar with that breed but the picture you posted shows he's cute!

Pug cake on Flickr:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/debbiedoescakesnet/3657836787/

Just cuz he's cute. :)

[RStar]

R-Star : that's great news! I hope her PT goes well.

I got 25 miles on the bike today. Yay! I've got 4 days on the bike now- when does the weight start dropping? Thanks! Now we just have to wait for the insurance to approve it.......

did you know a neutered dog will still get it on with a girl dog in heat?:eek:

Wouldn't you?

[ozron]

Every time I've gone to the Portland Classical Chinese Garden, I tell myself I should just buy a membership. So I did. (It also impressed my date.)

It's right in downtown, less than a ten minute bike ride from my apartment.

And it's a world away, two steps off the street.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2518/3684049472_d249acfa58_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2081/3683238595_1c20118377_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3630/3683238255_e3873a3f54_o.jpg

www.portlandchinesegarden.org

[Betty]

Just beautiful. I could sit there for hours!

[RStar]

Tonight I am sleeping with a dinosaur named Lulu. She's a terribly cute English Bulldog but the noises she makes!!!

Tomorrow, I have one night at home with my own little dinosaur then I move into the Hound category with Cooper the PBGV (Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen). He and his Shih tzu sister Zoi will be romping with Thurston. Thurston and Cooper LOVE each other.

Cooper looks a bit like this guy:

http://www.canadogs.com/images/PBGVadult.JPG

Then the holidays are over and I may get my bed back.


This picture looks like someone is cranking the little guy's tail to get his head higher....

:D

[Kevy Baby]

Me- short bike ride...Is that anything like riding the short bus?

[ozron]

Just beautiful. I could sit there for hours!

Hey, if you're ever in town - the tea house is amazing!

[alphabassettgrrl]

Ron- that's gorgeous!

Kevy, it would be a parallel if I were riding a short bike. :) Or maybe a tricycle.

I had a busy but fantastic weekend. Today was quiet; I had time to go to the gym. And now we're watching Tour de France Stage 1. :)

[Not Afraid]

Yma Sumac is buried in Hollywood Forever! I had no idea.

[alphabassettgrrl]

I want to poke around on my next recreation day in LA. I'm sure there are many great tombstones to photograph...

[Tref]

Yma Sumac is buried in Hollywood Forever! I had no idea.

Neither does Yma Sumac.

[Prudence]

Today is pie day, so I am home "sick". I am presently listening to a CLE webcast. 1 credit down, 44 left to go!

[JWBear]

Yma Sumac is buried in Hollywood Forever! I had no idea.

I feel a pilgrimage coming on.....

[Betty]

Pie day!?! Do I need to buy a pie? Cuase I will ya know - on account of it being pie day.

[cirquelover]

I think she was referring to the dreaded pie in the face day at work. I'd be staying home too!

[alphabassettgrrl]

They're doing the pies *at* work?

[innerSpaceman]

Official Government Pie Humiliation Bribery Day!

[Betty]

Oh yeah! How quickly I forget. It's pie day - and not the fun happy kind of pie day. I'm going to have some Cherry Garcia as a direct protest to the pies. Besides, everyone knows that ice cream is better then pie anyway.

[Alex]

For the not Prudence portion of the world, Pie Day is in March.

[Kevy Baby]

Ugh... can't sleep.

I think I'll go for a walk.

[Betty]

Ugh... can't sleep.

I think I'll go for a walk.

Did you make it back or get mugged?

[JWBear]

I spotted a car in the parking lot this morning that had a NRA sticker and a "Straight But Not Narrow" rainbow sticker. That's not something you see every day.

[Snowflake]

I spotted a car in the parking lot this morning that had a NRA sticker and a "Straight But Not Narrow" rainbow sticker. That's not something you see every day.

Wow, I can't get my head wrapped around that image at all! Pretty cool, though.

[Gn2Dlnd]

I spotted a car in the parking lot this morning that had a NRA sticker and a "Straight But Not Narrow" rainbow sticker. That's not something you see every day.

But I do, day after day after day... And now we come to the most dangerous part opf our journey, the return to civilization! Please keep your hands and arms inside the boat, we we wouldn't want to scratch up the dock.

[alphabassettgrrl]

For the not Prudence portion of the world, Pie Day is in March.

Pi day. :)

[Snowflake]

I wish I had a lemon meringue pie :(

[JWBear]

Mmmmm... Boysenberry Pie....

[cirquelover]

I want a raspberry pie. I may have to go pick some raspberries after i pick up the kid.

[Betty]

Blackberry pie is delish... although Key Lime is also very tasty and refreshing. Or I could go Chocolate Silk too... but that's a little heavy for a hot summer day.

Pie.

Pie is good.

[Snowflake]

I still want a lemon pie. :(

[JWBear]

Glazed Strawberry pie with oatmeal crust..... Mmmmmmmm

[Betty]

Oatmeal crust? Really? What is this oatmeal crust of which you speak?

[BarTopDancer]

Dammit! We're still talking about pie??

I want pie.

[Prudence]

I have leftover strawberry pie at home.

And about 3 bites of nectarine cheesecake.

[BarTopDancer]

Henry's is having ridiculous produce sales today (double ad Wednesday). I have a ton of fresh produce now. Maybe I can make my own pie.

[JWBear]

Oatmeal crust? Really? What is this oatmeal crust of which you speak?

Just what it sounds like... Oatmeal (real, not instant), butter, sugar, cinnamon… Yummy! Want me to post the recipe?

[Not Afraid]

Hmmm, is there a Hof's Hut visit in my future? Lemon Meringue sounds great right now.

[alphabassettgrrl]

It's never a bad time for chocolate silk pie!

Now I'm hungry.

[cirquelover]

Just what it sounds like... Oatmeal (real, not instant), butter, sugar, cinnamon… Yummy! Want me to post the recipe?


I would like it, even if she doesn't! It sounds intriguing with a strawberry pie.

The only oatmeal crust I have made was from crumbled oatmeal cookies, kind of like a graham cracker crust.

[Not Afraid]

Chris is home and we're going to Hof's. Maybe I should get a pie appetizer.

[cirquelover]

What would be the main course after a pie appetizer?

[JWBear]

I would like it, even if she doesn't! It sounds intriguing with a strawberry pie.

The only oatmeal crust I have made was from crumbled oatmeal cookies, kind of like a graham cracker crust.

You got it!


Oatmeal Pie Crust


Oven: 350°

2/3 cup butter
2 cups oatmeal
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 tsp cinnamon

Place butter in pie tin, and put in hot oven to melt. In a bowl, mix remaining ingredients. Add to melted butter in pie tin, stir. Bake in oven for 20 minutes. Remove and shape to pan. Cool.

[JWBear]

And here is my mom's strawberry pie recipe to go in it!


Glazed Fresh Strawberry Pie


1 cup sugar
2 tbsp cornstarch
Pinch of salt
1 ¾ cups cold water
1 regular size box strawberry gelatin
2 boxes whole strawberries, washed and capped

In a saucepan, combine sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Stir in cold water. Cook mixture until clear, stirring constantly. While mixture is hot, stir in strawberry gelatin. Cool in refrigerator until it’s just beginning to thicken.

Fill baked pie shell with the strawberries. Pour chilled glaze over strawberries. Place pie in refrigerator to set and chill.

[Ghoulish Delight]

Chris is home and we're going to Hof's. Maybe I should get a pie appetizer.
Appietizer?

[DisneyDaniel]

Speaking of pies, here is a homemade banana cream pie which I made for dessert a few nights ago. And, yes, I did take a photo of it before it was cut up and served.

http://photos.smugmug.com/photos/586002817_nHJHe-S.jpg

[Kevy Baby]

Did you make it back or get mugged?Just got back - it was a hell of a walk.

What would be the main course after a pie appetizer?More pie

[Not Afraid]

Well, I had a salad first and then we ordered Coconut Cream Pie to take home. I was too full after my salad to eat pie right away and Hof's serves mini pies instead of just a slice.

[Disneyphile]

More pieAsk and you shall receive. ;)

[JWBear]

More pie

You got it! (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8KMyhCgsb7E&feature=related)

[Morrigoon]

You know who does a killer pie crust? (Yes, you probably do) : Prudence

Pru, any chance we can talk you into posting the recipe for your crust?

[Morrigoon]

This is what I get for staying up late and watching late night tv... I'm just sitting here, all innocent, and suddenly I get this idea in my head that I should make a bacon puppet and send it in to Craig Ferguson.

... No, I really have no idea why. But that makes it even funnier. I almost wanna do it just to see if it would make it on the show.

[Snowflake]

Goonie, I totally think you should!

In other news, I paid off another cc today. :D

[RStar]

You know who does a killer pie crust? (Yes, you probably do) : Prudence

Pru, any chance we can talk you into posting the recipe for your crust?

Pie crusts are 50% ingredients, 50% method, IMHO.

I think she needs to have us over for a class to demonstrate the method! ;)

[Capt Jack]

In other news, I paid off another cc today. :D

:snap: :snap: . bravo. hella good feeling aint it?



I just keep paying off the same one over and over...which I suppose is good to a point. its the other (remaining) one thats taking all the time and effort now.

[Moonliner]

Goonie, I totally think you should!

In other news, I paid off another cc today. :D

Congrats to you! Sounds like you are on a roll. I have one you can pay off in order to keep your streak going....

[Snowflake]

Congrats to you! Sounds like you are on a roll. I have one you can pay off in order to keep your streak going....

:-)

Sorry Moonie, I've got 3 more to pay down, with larger balances. But I am seeing some headway, it's a great feeling. Of course, I still need to get the state off my back from the reassessment of the 2006 taxes. But, it's all good! If I keep this up, I may be able to swing a trip south for a few days in the fall and a trip to DL as my reward.

[Snowflake]

Pie crusts are 50% ingredients, 50% method, IMHO.

I think she needs to have us over for a class to demonstrate the method! ;)

Absolutely. I've tried everyone "foolproof" method and still make a pie crust that is tough and unyielding. The only way I've been able to do a decent pie crust is to use the food processor and handle it as little as possible.

This is also an incredibly delicious and fabulous tart receipe, for the tarts amongst us.

Meyer Lemon Creme Brulee Tart

Crust
1 cup all purpose flour
1/4 cup powdered sugar
Pinch of salt
6 tablespoons (3/4 stick) chilled unsalted butter, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
4 teaspoons (or more) chilled whipping cream

1 egg white, beaten to blend

Filling
3/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons sugar
3/4 cup whipping cream
4 large egg yolks
2 large eggs
1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon (packed) finely grated lemon peel

Lemon slices (optional)


For crust:

Combine flour, sugar, and salt in processor; blend 5 seconds. Using on/off turns, blend in butter until coarse meal forms. Add 4 teaspoons cream. Using on/off turns, blend until moist clumps form, adding more cream by teaspoonfuls if dough is dry. Gather dough into ball; flatten into disk. Wrap and chill at least 2 hours.

Preheat oven to 350°F. Roll out dough on floured surface to 12-inch round. Transfer to 9-inch-diameter tart pan with removable bottom. Fold overhang in, pressing to form double-thick sides. Bake crust until golden, pressing with back of fork if crust bubbles, about 18 minutes (small cracks may appear). Brush inside of hot crust twice with egg white. Maintain oven temperature.


For filling:

Whisk 3/4 cup sugar, cream, yolks, and eggs in bowl to blend well. Mix in lemon juice and lemon peel. Pour filling into warm crust. Bake until filling is slightly puffed at edges and set in center, about 30 minutes. Cool completely, about 1 hour.

Preheat broiler. Place tart on baking sheet. Cover edge of crust with foil to prevent burning. Sprinkle tart with 2 tablespoons sugar. Broil tart until sugar melts and caramelizes, turning sheet for even browning, about 2 minutes. Transfer tart to rack. Cool until topping is crisp, about 1 hour.

Push tart pan bottom up, releasing tart. Place on platter, garnish with lemon slices, if desired, and serve.

[Alex]

Keep your butter cold!

If it takes too long put it back in the fridge so that the butter does not come close to melting.

[Betty]

Mmmmm - lemon tart. I'll totally tart it up for that!

[alphabassettgrrl]

In other news, I paid off another cc today.

Good for you! I love that feeling! I just paid off one, too, so now I need to keep it paid off every month.

[cirquelover]

You got it!


Oatmeal Pie Crust


Oven: 350°

2/3 cup butter
2 cups oatmeal
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 tsp cinnamon

Place butter in pie tin, and put in hot oven to melt. In a bowl, mix remaining ingredients. Add to melted butter in pie tin, stir. Bake in oven for 20 minutes. Remove and shape to pan. Cool.

Thank you so much, it sounds intriguing!

I have a question though; You don't shape the crust to the pan until after it comes out of the oven the second time?

I've never heard of such a thing. I must try this out for myself.

[Betty]

I am intrigued. It almost sounds like baking a cookie and then smooshing it ino the pan still hot so it holds it's shape. Must try this.

[Prudence]

Most of my "method" involves unwrapping the refrigerated dough from the grocery store. But, on rare occasions I actually do make crust. I think this is the requested recipe. (http://recipes.medievalcookery.com/shortpaest.html)

[Not Afraid]

Sorry to interrupt the pie thread (maybe we should have our own thread about pie - or a recipe thread?) but.....

I just had to say that all THREE trashcans that were over the top full are now empty. It's a good thing!

[Betty]

So - I'm out to lunch today with a work friend at Carl's Jr. There's an elderly man exiting the double doors and my friend opens the door and says something nice about holding the door open.

I, in turn, am standing blocking the other door while a teenager is standing there waiting for me to move to get out. I say something like - and I will gladly block this door and prevent everyone from getting out. ha ha. yeah- I am a comedian.

The teen says - hey - do you want my watermelon? I'm thinking several things. Is that a hidden meaning for something else? Is there a watermelon stand around? Is there a hidden camera?

Apparently he was in ag. class and grew watermelons. It's freakin hotter then heck out here and he had it in his backpack and did't want to have to carry it home.

It was such an expected thing - but I'm now the proud owner of a watermelon some young kid grew for school.

[Capt Jack]

ok....didnt see that coming

:snap:

[Disneyphile]

So, Ken and I have started to toy with the idea of buying a house again. There are some really awesome houses in our town going for $300K and even less. Most are 3-bedroom, around 1,100 sq. feet, but sit on large lots of 8,000 sq. feet, giving us a lot of add-on options later down the road. :)

So, we've put through some inquiries with a few lenders to see if we can pre-qualify. And, with our criteria, we've already been told we qualify for a 30-year fixed FHA program, with our total monthly payments being close to what we already pay in rent.

The catch is coming up with the required 3.5% down payment (which is even allowed to be a gift), so we're exploring some options on that now, which might actually let this come to fruition in the coming months. :)

If there's one good thing about this recession, it's the availability of cheap/affordable housing.

In the meantime, our landlords have given us permission to paint, so I'm going to add some color to our home over the next few weeks. I've been needing a change of scenery (mostly from over-working), and a bit of color will really help with that. I'm thinking of going deep burgundy or grayish-blue for the office. Some folks argue that it's a waste to put money into a rental, but for me, it's a $30 bucket of colorful happiness. ;)

[Strangler Lewis]

It was such an expected thing - but I'm now the proud owner of a watermelon some young kid grew for school.

Isn't that how "Invasion of the Body Snatchers" started?

Save it. Especially if it's been genetically modified to talk. It might be worth something someday.

[alphabassettgrrl]

How nice, Betty!

DP- now is definitely a buyer's market. Good luck! Enjoy your painting, too. I still haven't managed to paint here and we've been here a long time. I envy your energy!

[Not Afraid]

Prices a low in the housing market but there is a TON of competition and things are selling above their list price and most have multiplle offers on them. Bid high and put in multiple offers - making sure you stipulate that you are making multiple offers when you send in your offer.

My friend has been trying to buy a place for about 6 months now and is having a terrible time. She's been outbid many, many times. FHA has also been a stickler on their requirements.

Make SURE your Realtor is experienced and has been in the business a long time. Sometimes knowing the selling agent makes a WORLD of difference. This is NOT the market that is friendly for a new Realtor.

[Disneyphile]

Yeah, the lender informed us that we could take months to land something, and we can't get "attached" to any single property - it's almost luck of the draw. But, that time frame totally works for us, as I'm not really wanting to move anytime this year.

This particular lender works side-by-side with a realtor who's been in the business for over 30 years who has rave reviews that I've been able to check out. We'll probably meet with both of them by month's end to start dipping our toes in the pool at least. :)

[Betty]

If there's one good thing about this recession, it's the availability of cheap/affordable housing.

We're doing the same thing right now. Don't forget about the $8,000 tax CREDIT (not deduction - but credit) if you can buy it before the end of the year.

[JWBear]

I have a question though; You don't shape the crust to the pan until after it comes out of the oven the second time?

Yes.

I am intrigued. It almost sounds like baking a cookie and then smooshing it ino the pan still hot so it holds it's shape. Must try this.

Exactly.

[Morrigoon]

So, Ken and I have started to toy with the idea of buying a house again. There are some really awesome houses in our town going for $300K and even less. Most are 3-bedroom, around 1,100 sq. feet, but sit on large lots of 8,000 sq. feet, giving us a lot of add-on options later down the road. :)

So, we've put through some inquiries with a few lenders to see if we can pre-qualify. And, with our criteria, we've already been told we qualify for a 30-year fixed FHA program, with our total monthly payments being close to what we already pay in rent.

The catch is coming up with the required 3.5% down payment (which is even allowed to be a gift), so we're exploring some options on that now, which might actually let this come to fruition in the coming months. :)

If there's one good thing about this recession, it's the availability of cheap/affordable housing.

In the meantime, our landlords have given us permission to paint, so I'm going to add some color to our home over the next few weeks. I've been needing a change of scenery (mostly from over-working), and a bit of color will really help with that. I'm thinking of going deep burgundy or grayish-blue for the office. Some folks argue that it's a waste to put money into a rental, but for me, it's a $30 bucket of colorful happiness. ;)

That's great! Did you find out if Garden Grove has programs to help with the down payment? I don't show Garden Grove on that list I found a couple years ago, but that may have changed. However, is FP's employer technically within Anaheim? Because they give assistance to residents or people who work within Anaheim (for purchase in Anaheim, of course). Here are the numbers I had for there:

Anaheim Home Program (HOME)
$35,000 (714) 765-4340

Anaheim Second Mortgage Assistance Program (SMAP)
$25,000 (714) 765-4340

Now, this was before the crash really took hold, so those programs may have changed, but it's a place to start.

Fall and winter are good times to look too, because people get all into the holidays and a large enough number of them decide to hold off till the next spring (peak market) to give the buyer a little extra edge. Although this summer is pretty good too, because of the condition of the market.

Paint is cheap, happiness is priceless. Totally worth the effort, even on a rental :)

[Disneyphile]

Paint is cheap, happiness is priceless. Totally worth the effort, even on a rental :)Thanks for all the info! I'll definitely check into the assistance grants/programs.

In the meantime, we're pretty much decided on Autumn Maple (dark red with orange hints) or Velvety Merlot (dark red with magenta hints) for the office, Evening Symphony (dark blue) for the bedroom, and we're torn on French Tarragon (dark sage green), Copper Mine (caramel), Laurel Leaf (medium sage green), or Autumn Gold (rich gold with orange hints) for the living room.

We'll start with the office, or course.

[Disneyphile]

Hmmm. Now, it appears we've decided on two shades of blue for the bedroom - darker on the bottom half. We're literally going to invoke the "sea & sky" motif so it goes with our cruise decor. The two colors will be separated by a thin white piece of trim... in the spirit of a ship railing. ;)

[Tref]

... a thin white piece of trim...

Amen, my sister!

[JWBear]

Someone got something pretty and shiny yesterday, and he needs to post about it......

[Snowflake]

Someone got something pretty and shiny yesterday, and he needs to post about it......

Yes, they do! I saw the FB pics, why nothing here??? He looks very handsome in red, BTW

[Not Afraid]

Well, someone needs to turn the light on here, because I want to see red, shiny and pretty.

And, if we're talking cars, I REALLY want to see it because it's going to be a while before I get a new one.

[Not Afraid]

Thurston just peed on a client file.

[Betty]

I'm bummed. Found 2 houses we really liked... one is already done taking bids (although it still shows active on the MLS) and the other house has nearly $400 a month in mello roos. Bah. (why even tease us with that?!) Grr.

So - I'm feeling a bit down today. At least it's Friday.

[alphabassettgrrl]

So kitty gets to have antibiotics twice a day for the next ten days; one pill, and a dose of liquid. Poor kitty. I also need to take her temperature (she's going to love that, too).

I sure hope she appreciates this. I'm also keeping her inside (another thing she can add to her list of insults).

[Betty]

So kitty gets to have antibiotics twice a day for the next ten days; one pill, and a dose of liquid. Poor kitty. I also need to take her temperature (she's going to love that, too).

I sure hope she appreciates this. I'm also keeping her inside (another thing she can add to her list of insults).

Oh - that's going to be so much fun for both of you. You both have my symphathies.

[Not Afraid]

So kitty gets to have antibiotics twice a day for the next ten days; one pill, and a dose of liquid. Poor kitty. I also need to take her temperature (she's going to love that, too).

I sure hope she appreciates this. I'm also keeping her inside (another thing she can add to her list of insults).

What was her diagnosis?

[Not Afraid]

If Chris doesn't take the early shuttle home Im going to eat the leftover pie. So there.

[Chernabog]

Thurston just peed on a client file.

Well, at least you know what he thinks of that client.

[Capt Jack]

If Chris doesn't take the early shuttle home Im going to eat the leftover pie. So there.

maybe he'll return the favor

:evil:

[alphabassettgrrl]

No official diagnosis yet; pathology pending from last night's aspiration. The vet says it's likely lymphoma but I'm hoping it's just an infected injury to her intestine.

She just hates me for keeping her inside and subjecting her to the antibiotics. Terribly undignified thing to happen to a cat.

[€uroMeinke]

Mmmmm Pie

[Morrigoon]

We're doing the same thing right now. Don't forget about the $8,000 tax CREDIT (not deduction - but credit) if you can buy it before the end of the year.

November 30th

[ozron]

skating babies...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T_UxhPbMyy8

that is all....

[Ghoulish Delight]

I have twice in the existence of the show flipped on Fox Sports' "Sports Science".

Both times the show ended up being about testicles. Complete with way too many euphemisms and far too detailed computer animations.

I have never bothered to watch a full episode of this particular television program.

[Kevy Baby]

Pie crusts are 50% ingredients, 50% method, IMHO.Susan's friends came over to our condo one day when we weren't home (long story), used Susan's recipe, ingredients, pans and utensils, and our kitchen.

Yet the cookies were still different.

[Stan4dSteph]

skating babies...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T_UxhPbMyy8

that is all....
Creepy!

[blueerica]

So, I was on Facebook and this ad caught my eye...

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n263/blueerica/Plentyoffishdotcomcopy.jpg

Umm... my cat's name is Markus. Guess this is how he stays busy while I'm at work...

[Moonliner]

So, I was on Facebook and this ad caught my eye...

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n263/blueerica/Plentyoffishdotcomcopy.jpg

Umm... my cat's name is Markus. Guess this is how he stays busy while I'm at work...

Cats do love fish.

[JWBear]

Plenty Of Fish?!

[Not Afraid]

I spent the day at the Renegade Craft Fair. (http://www.renegadecraft.com/) It was a total blast!

[mousepod]

I'm at my parents' house in New Jersey. Just had cold pizza (from 2 days ago) for breakfast. It was wonderful.

[Not Afraid]

But, has your sister gone into labor yet?

[mousepod]

But, has your sister gone into labor yet?

Nope. Still waiting.

[lindyhop]

I was at the Park last night to dance to Stompy Jones. I've mentioned to various people who couldn't change the subject in time that Stompy Jones is the only band I've seen at Disneyland that has enough of a crowd at the end of the evening to do an encore and they're the only band I've seen that Disney allows to do an encore. The first time they played there they did an encore and Disney nearly freaked out but since then they seem to have somewhat accepted the concept of spontaneity.

Last night there was a decent crowd at the end but not a huge amount of applause/demands for one more song so the band didn't come back out on stage. But Elizabeth, the castmember who supervises the whole thing, walked backstage and brought the band out herself. That was a welcome change. Of course the regular dancers there are also APs so they aren't shy about telling her what they want and why they should get it.

[Prudence]

I got to spend Friday evening with my mom at the Nordstrom flagship store in downtown Seattle doing the anniversary pre-sale routine. Because my mom is a champion shopper and gets the pre-sale invite, has her "girls" (personal shoppers), and generally rocks. It was a fabulous 4 hours of shopping.

Now I am back and I have a chest cold that is interfering with my plans for the day. But, if that's the price I have to pay for that much shopping fun, that's okay with me.

[alphabassettgrrl]

This weekend was the local street fair and I volunteered both days with our group. We're doing first aid and traffic control at an intersection that can get *clogged* with pedestrian/car conflict. Quite a hot couple of days, but I like the heat.

Husband had two days of scuba classes so he was gone both days and is now exhausted just in time to go to work tomorrow. That's ok; he was having fun.

Cat is apparently feeling better but I'm not sure she's drinking. She tells me that antibiotics are cat-torture.

Luckily the hound is doing well. She walked three miles yesterday, up to the end of the street fair and back home. She let me know that was a bit too much walking for a hound.

Now- it's beer timez.

[SzczerbiakManiac]

Do you think I can pass for an 8th grader? Wally has a youth basketball camp (http://www.prohoops.net/_tmp/SzczerbiakBrochure2009.pdf) and I need to attend!

[Strangler Lewis]

Do you think I can pass for an 8th grader? Wally has a youth basketball camp (http://www.prohoops.net/_tmp/SzczerbiakBrochure2009.pdf) and I need to attend!

Perhaps you should write him and suggest that he put on a fantasy camp for adults.

[Snowflake]

You'd never think watching movies all weekend would be exhausting, but it was. Great fun, good films and some pretty yummy lunches/dinners too. You'd think I'd learn to take the Monday off after the SF Silent Film Fest, wrong. (YAWN)

[katiesue]

So I've been catching up as I've been up at my Mom's most of last week with no internet. You'd think someplace would have free wifi but noooo.

DP - We just did the house thing and don't forget to budget for other costs besides the downpayment. You'll need mortage insurance if you're putting less than 20% down, closing costs, appraisal fees, cost of moving, costs of moving your utilities. A good agent and a good mortage broker are your best bets. In this market financing is tough, especially if you're looking at an FHA, they have the strictest regulations. Also if the house doesn't appraise for what your offer is you'll have to pay the difference or you can't get financing.

On the upside from the curious finds in my Mother's basement of doom. We found individually boxed pieces of the grooms cake from my parents wedding in 1960. I can't get anyone to actualy try it though. I'm also the proud owner of all the sugar flowers etc from the cake they served at the wedding. More china has been found. I'm fairly certain 80% of the wedding presents my parents got were never used. Most were in their original boxes and had the cards with them as well. If you ever wrote my mom a letter I have it too. She also had all of her tax info, in little individual boxes by year, from 1972 onward. And if you don't want your kids to know stuff like say you flunked out of college you should destroy the evidence now.

[Not Afraid]

More of the same china or different patterns?

[Disneyphile]

On the upside from the curious finds in my Mother's basement of doom.Wow! I think you need Indiana Jones to lead you through the next run.

With each story, I become more fascinated by your mom.

[katiesue]

More of the same china or different patterns?

Different - actual china not stoneware. Two different patterns so far but I didn't get much into one box so there could be more. We "think" they were my dad's mom's. She apparently had a ton of glassware/china.

Anyone who gets anything also gets a free box of cake :D

[Snowflake]

Different - actual china not stoneware. Two different patterns so far but I didn't get much into one box so there could be more. We "think" they were my dad's mom's. She apparently had a ton of glassware/china.

Anyone who gets anything also gets a free box of cake :D

The boxes of cake deserve some kind of art project. I wonder, would it float if you tossed a piece in the ocean?

I've always dreamed of plowing through a basement of stuff like this, it's like a treasure hunt. I know, I'm bizzare.

[Betty]

The boxes of cake deserve some kind of art project. I wonder, would it float if you tossed a piece in the ocean?

I've always dreamed of plowing through a basement of stuff like this, it's like a treasure hunt. I know, I'm bizzare.

I am soooo right there with you! But then I'm sort of nosy and enjoy peeking at other people's "stuff".

The cake intrigues me. Not to eat. Just the idea that it's still there and never molded and got icky. It's like mummy cake or something.

[Ghoulish Delight]

http://www.amazingsuperpowers.com/comics/2009-07-13-Hard-Days-Work.png

[Not Afraid]

No, NO, this just can't be true!

Cats 'exploit' humans by purring (http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/science/nature/8147566.stm)

http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/shared/img/o.gif http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/46051000/jpg/_46051771_stan.jpg
http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/nol/shared/img/v3/start_quote_rb.gif They learn how to do this, and then they do it quite deliberately http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/nol/shared/img/v3/end_quote_rb.gif

[Ghoulish Delight]

Ripped from the pages of "No Sh!t Magazine".

[Alex]

I've never heard the "solicitious purr" from any cat I've ever had.

Pixel only ever begs for one thing and that is just through outright bawling (when she decides she needs some concrete backscratching out on the front walkway). She barely eats and certainly never begs for food or to be petted.

[Prudence]

So, what's considered a "high" fever in adults? I mean, I'm not frying my brain with my refusal to go to the doctor-ness, right?

[Disneyphile]

So, what's considered a "high" fever in adults? I mean, I'm not frying my brain with my refusal to go to the doctor-ness, right?Really, 102 and above. Unless, it's persisted for longer than a day, then regardless of how high it is, you'll need to see a doc.

In case it hasn't lasted longer than a day, be sure to take meds to reduce the fever, or try breaking it via some hot lemonade with a teaspoon of ginger. (It tastes like ass, but it will make you sleep like a baby and wake in a giant pool of sweat, fever-free.)

[Prudence]

It's been two days of over 101. Yesterday was 101.1, today 101.5. My normal is nearly a degree below the stated norm.

Ugh. I'll call the doc tomorrow. Of course, it will be 3 weeks until I can get an appointment, so really there's no point.

[Disneyphile]

Of course, it will be 3 weeks until I can get an appointment, so really there's no point.Well, since it's after hours right now, you should be able to go to the Urgent Care center within your network and see someone immediately for the same co-pay. Most insurances work that way. Call yours and find out - tell them that you're running a very high fever and want to see a doctor tonight and wish to go to Urgent Care and ask what your co-pay is.

I've done that on many occasions when I'm sick.

[Prudence]

I have no urgent care. Or nurse hotline. Yay for gov't insurance plans. Maybe if I tell them tomorrow that I think I have swine flu they'll see me sooner.

[Disneyphile]

I have no urgent care. Or nurse hotline. Yay for gov't insurance plans. Maybe if I tell them tomorrow that I think I have swine flu they'll see me sooner.Whatever works! I say use that line.

In the meantime, Ken (he's a licensed pharm tech) says:

Take two tablets of ibuprofen (Motrin or Advil) now.
In two hours, take two tablets of acetaminophen (Tylenol).
Then, in another two hours, take two more ibuprofen.
Two hours later, take the Tylenol again.
Alternate every two hours (each med is only taken every four hours, but spaced out by two hours to prevent side effects) In a simpler example: 7pm - Motrin, 9pm - Tylenol, 11pm - Motrin, 1am - Tylenol, and so forth.

And, he said you need to get to the doctor tomorrow at the very latest. 101 temp for 3 days for an adult is not normal, and needs attention.

[BarTopDancer]

What about one of those minute clinics?

And if you tell the doc you have had a 102 fever for 3 days and nothing is bringing it down they better have you come in.

[Prudence]

I'm going to call tomorrow morning and see what they say. Sadly, I can't take acetaminophen as I'm the one person on the planet who vomits from taking it. I did take some ibuprofen about an hour ago and I'm feeling slightly more human. The Rat made me some more tea with lemon(cello) and honey, and soon I will be eating bacon. Which should fix everything.

[Cadaverous Pallor]

Feel better, Pru.


Katiesue - those NRFB wedding gifts from 1960 are probably worth a pretty penny to collectors!

[Not Afraid]

Pru, get thee to a doctor soon. It's not normal and could signal infection that could worsen.


I went to feed the fish tonight and, suddenly, I have gone from 10 growing plecos babies to at least 27. I guess we had another batch. I can't keep a guppy baby alive to save my life, but plecos - I've got 'em.

[mousepod]

Milo Quincy Leonhart. 9lbs 3oz. My new nephew. Hooray!

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2566/3719359690_e750298018.jpg

[Not Afraid]

Thatis an ADORABLE picture!!!! Congratulations to the entire family!

[€uroMeinke]

Milo Quincy Leonhart. 9lbs 3oz. My new nephew. Hooray!

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2566/3719359690_e750298018.jpg

Oh my - did you give him back or are you taking him back home?

[JWBear]

It just occurred to me that someone who is not familiar with American brands of dishwashing detergents might be confused by a bottle of Ultra Concentrated Joy.

Then again... Maybe I just need more sleep.

[JWBear]

Congrats Jesse!

[Disneyphile]

I can't keep a guppy baby alive to save my life, but plecos - I've got 'em.If you need a home for any of 'em, once they're bigger, we could really use another one for our tank. :)

[alphabassettgrrl]

Congrats, Jesse!

[Prudence]

It's like a human, only smaller!

[bewitched]

Awww. What an adorable nephew you've got there.

Feel better, Pru!

[Mousey Girl]

I have a feeling Uno Attack is in my immediate future...

[~MS~]

Milo Quincy Leonhart. 9lbs 3oz. My new nephew. Hooray!

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2566/3719359690_e750298018.jpg

Congratulations!!!!!!!! He is adorable!

[innerSpaceman]

And what a name!! The kid's got a great future.

[DreadPirateRoberts]

Congratulations!

[ToriBear]

Congrats mousepod!

[Tref]

Is that filmmaker Tim Burton holding lil' Milo?

[bewitched]

It's late, I'm bored and I just noticed that I only need 6 more posts to hit a 1000.

[bewitched]

Nope, only 5 4. :D

[Cadaverous Pallor]

What a cute photo! If I'm not mistaken, you wore a Muppet shirt for the occasion - how sweet. :)

[Stan4dSteph]

Milo Quincy Leonhart. 9lbs 3oz. My new nephew. Hooray!Congratulations!

[cirquelover]

He is adorable, congrats to your family!

[Tom]

Congrats to the Leonharts and Mousepods!

[Prudence]

Sooooo..... I apparently have swine flu. They don't test for swine flu specifically now, but there isn't really another flu going around, so the doc is pretty sure that's what it is. I definitely have the flu, as they did the test for that.

And do you know how they test for that? They stick a swab waaaaaaaaaaaaay up your nose. I could die happy if I never had to go through that again.

So, I told one co-worker, word spread, and the interim director just called to strongly suggest that I take the rest of the week off. I decided not to fight it. I'm not contagious after tomorrow, thanks to the antivirals, so I'm okay to go in Thursday, but it would probably be better if I rested up so I can hopefully still partake in weekend festivities.

I think I still have a pig nose left over from a previous mouse adventure.....

[Morrigoon]

We'll try to save most of the teasing for after you're feeling better, how's that? :)

(In the meantime, *hugs* feel better)

[Cadaverous Pallor]

The most awesome military name ever. (http://www.wafb.com/Global/story.asp?S=2812629)

[Alex]

Before I make any appropriate or inappropriate name jokes I need to know:

Is he mentioned on that news web site because he's dead?

[Mousey Girl]

I couldn't sleep so I made cookies.

[cirquelover]

I like cookies!

[SzczerbiakManiac]

Tim Curry
http://images.icanhascheezburger.com/completestore/2009/1/22/128770931047581799.jpg (http://roflrazzi.com/upcoming/?pid=7225)

[Capt Jack]

I couldn't sleep so I made cookies.

I couldnt make cookies so I went to sleep :(

[Chernabog]

Anyone want a free kitten? One of my clients has some calico kittens to give away and wanted me to send out a general bulletin :)

[ToriBear]

Anyone want a free kitten? One of my clients has some calico kittens to give away and wanted me to send out a general bulletin :)

I want a kitty! But sadly, I can't. My cat Samwise would most likely hunt it down.

[Not Afraid]

I don't have a Calico.... J/K!!!!!

But, I'll post it on my Alpha Facebook page.

[Chernabog]

I don't have a Calico.... J/K!!!!!

But, I'll post it on my Alpha Facebook page.

Thanks!! Just PM me if anyone responds! :) :)

[Not Afraid]

You don't happen to have pics, do you?

[Chernabog]

You don't happen to have pics, do you?

Hmmm I could have her email me some. I'll call her tomorrow.

[3894]

There is nothing - nothing! - like imminent death of a super-controlling patriarch to make the family doodoo hit the fan, big time.

And yours truly will be in the thick of it, seated toward the side of the action, lips zipped, knitting, knitting, knitting, not saying a word.

[Betty]

Just going to sit back and watch eh?

[Prudence]

I've been told not to come to work next week either. I was only going to be there Monday, because I'm going to Orlando on Tuesday, but they just called to strongly suggest that I not come in until I get back from Orlando. They are a wee bit paranoid.

[Morrigoon]

Oh *drat*, LOL, just think of all the pie you're missing, Pru! ;)

[lindyhop]

I've been told not to come to work next week either. I was only going to be there Monday, because I'm going to Orlando on Tuesday, but they just called to strongly suggest that I not come in until I get back from Orlando. They are a wee bit paranoid.

Apparently they aren't at all concerned about anyone in Orlando...

[alphabassettgrrl]

250 posts? I was only gone a day! You have all been busy!

[ozron]

About to go into another full weekend of rehearsals. This is a great cast -Evta is going to be an awesome night in the theatre for all concerned!

[blueerica]

Been having a hard time coming up with the right words to say here, but as some of you on here know, my grandmother finally let go yesterday and died.

It's been strange. I found out in a crowded airport, in the middle of which I proceeded to pretty much break down. I boarded the plane home from Tampa. Though my tears had dried up momentarily, I knew I would cry again, so as the couple sitting next to me was settling in, I forewarned them of possible tears, since I really didn't feel like freaking anyone out, or having to answer questions in the midst of tears.

The woman did a slight chuckle and said, well, you probably couldn't be sitting next to two better people for it. My husband's a grief counselor. We talked about my grandma some, then went on to having one of the best, deepest conversations of my life over drinks and a little cheese, crackers, and dark chocolate. I'll never forget them. Harold and Marilyn, thank you for that gift.

[Tom]

I'm so sorry, Erica. I am glad that your initial hours after the news were... well, not as bad as they could have been.

If there's anything we could do, even if it's just to lend an ear or a keyboard, please don't hesitate to reach us.

[alphabassettgrrl]

We talked about my grandma some, then went on to having one of the best, deepest conversations of my life over drinks and a little cheese, crackers, and dark chocolate. I'll never forget them. Harold and Marilyn, thank you for that gift.

The right people in the right place at the right time to help you. Sometimes it goes right. I'm glad.

**hugs**

[Strangler Lewis]

"You're in luck, dear, my husband's a grief counselor" sounds like the set-up to an awkward "stuck on an airplane" scene in a movie comedy. It would have been far funnier if their attempts at counseling had dissolved into bitterness and mutual recriminations about loss and failed ambition, with you counseling them.

Failing that, I'm glad they helped you, and I'm sorry for your loss.

[blueerica]

You know, I was wondering whether it was going to go that way, SL. In fact, at the beginning, I'd taken all precautions to not talk too much about it, since I thought I was really in the mood to put my head to the wall and become one with the little window.

Happily, we only briefly spoke of grief. Mainly the stages of grief. Each one of my "big" grief experiences have been different. Crying early in one, crying late in another, crying hard throughout, and one instance in which I spent a good deal of time blacked-out.

(When I was 16, one of my best friends, Gary, died in car accident... I really don't remember much of the time between hearing of his death and returning home from his funeral... Just came-to crying and writing down exactly who was invited to my funeral since a number of people that treated him badly through our years decided to attend and act like they were the best of friends to his confused family. Of course, in the fine print, I noted that this would likely change as I meet new people or could become unfriendly with someone on the list.)

The majority of the flight was stuff that the LoT is made up of. Travel, brief interludes of politics, religion, hobbies, and best of all, food and drink.

[LSPoorEeyorick]

Oh, lady. My heart goes out to you. My condolences to you and your family. Please don't hesitate to contact us if there is anything at all you need.

[blueerica]

Oh, and thank you everyone.

I'm currently awaiting news on when and what will be happening in memoriam for my grandmother. As she is being cremated (time, we has it), and there are a number of people possibly traveling from afar, it may be some time before there is anything official.

[Not Afraid]

Erica, please call if you need anything. And. maybe I can see you in person when you come out for the memorial and give you a big hug.

[alphabassettgrrl]

Erica, my dad was cremated, and it worked out really well to hold the memorial at a later date. That way I could get a reasonable plane fare. He was interred still later, as the ground was too frozen to dig at the memorial.

Whatever you and your family decide will be right.

And yes, each grief experience is different. I hope for peace for you. **hugs**

[3894]

I just came back from knee-deep in crazy, a.k.a. my mean FIL is in the hospital.

[lashbear]

I just had to say that all THREE trashcans that were over the top full are now empty. It's a good thing!
Why is there always so much trash there at your house ? ;)

[Not Afraid]

Why is there always so much trash there at your house ? ;)

Let's see.......

Gardner, cat litter, fuzzy water recycling, occasional entertaining, eating take-out/delivery way too much and the fact that we're just trashy people doesn't help. ;)

[lashbear]

:D Goodness, would I refer to any of your guests as trashy?? Never !! :D

Well, maybe the foreign ones... :P

[3894]

I need fashion. Serious, cleansing fashion.

[Stan4dSteph]

I need fashion. Serious, cleansing fashion.Making or buying?

I'm seriously tempted by a $9 o/w fare JFK - ORD from JetBlue on Saturday. Total cost would be about $160 if I return on Monday. I need to get the hell out of here.

[3894]

I'm seriously tempted by a $9 o/w fare JFK - ORD from JetBlue on Saturday. Total cost would be about $160 if I return on Monday. I need to get the hell out of here.

Then take the VanGalder bus to Madison. We'll be pick you up. Edited to add: Just know there's a chance Tom's dad will pass away (any day now, dear Lord. Any day.)

[BarTopDancer]

Making or buying?

I'm seriously tempted by a $9 o/w fare JFK - ORD from JetBlue on Saturday. Total cost would be about $160 if I return on Monday. I need to get the hell out of here.

I know that feeling. Hope you can get out of town for a bit.

[wendybeth]

Having a very fun day- hanging with Sam, and it looks like we're buying into the DVC-checked out the villas at the Grand and we're totally sold! Anyway,we have four passes with two days left on them- first person who can name Donald Duck's middle name (private joke) can have them. Call or post before tomorrow and they're yours!

[Not Afraid]

Fauntleroy.

[Disneyphile]

Fauntleroy.Whew. Thought I was in the "Announcement" thread and you were attempting to name DM already. ;)

[Alex]

So....Jupiter got Ike Turnered (http://feedproxy.google.com/%7Er/BadAstronomyBlog/%7E3/33rM6ay0sQ4/).

[SzczerbiakManiac]

Now THIS is a knife!
The Victorinox Swiss SwissChamp XAVT
http://www.swissarmy.com/images/ProductCatalog/vm/vm_53509_sol_a03.jpg (http://www.swissarmy.com/MultiTools/Pages/Product.aspx?category=everyday&product=53509&)

These are all it's features (spoilered only for spacing reasons) Large blade
Small blade
Corkscrew
Can opener with
small screwdriver 3 mm
Bottle opener with
large screwdriver 6 mm
wirestripper
Reamer
Key ring
Tweezers
Toothpick
Scissors
Multi-purpose hook (also parcel carrier)
Wood saw
Fishscaler with
hook disgorger
ruler (cm & inches)
Nail file with
metal file
nail cleaner
metal saw
Fine screwdriver 2 mm
Chisel
Pliers with
wire cutters
wire crimping tool
Phillips screwdriver
Magnifying Glass
Ball point pen
also to set DIP-Switches
Pin
Mini-screwdriver
Sewing eye
Case 1 and
Wrench with
5mm female Hex drive for D-SUB connectors
4mm female Hex drive for the bits
Bit Phillips 0 (Pozidrive)
Bit Phillips 1 (Pozidrive)
Bit Slotted 4 mm
Bit Phillips 2
Bit Hex 4 mm
Bit Torx 8
Bit Torx 10
Bit Torx 15
Case 2 and
Wrench with
5mm female Hex drive for D-SUB connectors
4mm female Hex drive for the bits
Bit Phillips 0 (Pozidrive)
Bit Phillips 1 (Pozidrive)
Bit Slotted 4 mm
Bit Phillips 2
Bit Hex 4 mm
Bit Torx 8
Bit Torx 10
Bit Torx 15
Large blade
LED light white
Magnifying Glass
Multi-purpose hook with nailfile
Reamer
Pruning blade
Electrician's blade with wire scraper
wire scraper
Pharmaceutical spatula
Combination tool with cap lifter
can opener
screwdriver
wire stripper
Watch opener
Fine screwdriver 2 mm
Digital clock
Altimeter
Barometer
Alarm
Countdown
Timer
ThermometerI think it also has a defibrillator, jumper cables, and will make dinner for the kids if you're running late.

[BarTopDancer]

I think it also has a defibrillator, jumper cables, and will make dinner for the kids if you're running late.

But does it come with MacGyver to demonstrate how to use it?

[bewitched]

No fork and spoon?

[bewitched]

Well hello there!

http://images.eonline.com/eol_images/Entire_Site/20090721/293.marini.2010calendar.072109.jpg

[Andrew]

Where'd you find my calendar photo?

[bewitched]

I found your secret, "look at me I'm hot" blog.

[Betty]

hubba hubba

[Alex]

On the wall of your cubicle?

[wolfy999]

Working 1.25 hours sure was a nice surprise today...considering I had asked for the day off anyways. Come to think of it, why did they even schedule me?

[SzczerbiakManiac]

Interesting article, read the whole thing if you want http://www.betanews.com/article/Security-jujitsu-or-How-to-improve-your-odds-despite-your-users/1248304192 but what I'm focusing in on is this sentence:

"I will bet you a quarter that the highest levels of surfing for midget porn, questionable downloads, and /b/ are done from the CSO's office."

What is "/b/"?

[Ghoulish Delight]

The only thing I know it as is 4chan's forum for random links. Don't know if it has an origin before that.

[Andrew]

I hadn't heard of it either, but here it is (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/4chan#.2Fb.2F) on Wikipedia, one of the subforums on a message board called 4chan.

in the high school of the internet, /b/ is the kid with a collection of butterfly knives and a locker full of porn.

[SzczerbiakManiac]

I am not sure what to make of this.from The Advocate (http://www.advocate.com/news_detail_ektid100458.asp)
Carol Channing Wants Depp to Play Her

Johnny Depp says his dream role is to play Broadway legend Carol Channing in a biopic--and now Channing has offered her blessing.

"It is not a new concept to me," Channing said. "Not at all. Men have been imitating me for as long as I can remember. In fact, most of the impersonations I have seen have had a five-o'clock shadow. I imagine, when or if Johnny should portray me, he will succeed. Because a true artist, such as himself, is one who loves his or her creation and therefore represents their honest view of that which they are creating. I think he is a gifted performer and I would be very proud, as well as interested in seeing what his vision of me would be. Johnny is someone I would very much like to help me and my foundation (ChanningARTS.org (http://www.channingarts.org/)) to bring the arts back into the public school system in America."

Depp said in an interview last week that he would love to play Channing. "I love her, I really do, she's amazing. With all the digital technology these days, I could probably pull it off!"

[Snowflake]

I am not sure what to make of this.

Hey, now that is cool and kinda sweet. Having enjoyed CC at the Bowl with Pink Martini, I think Depp would be inspired casting.

[3894]

Johnny Depp as CC ready to be shot out of the cannon in the Raspberries! scene of "Thoroughly Modern Millie" ... yes, I think we have something here.