Thread Drift

[DebW]

Wow, so cool to see the pictures from Ohio. And Nanci, good luck with the ailing turtle.

I spend my day in the woods of western Mass. where the temps varies from high 30s to mid-40, though there was ice on the ponds. I carried 4 saws today, and happy to report that I used all of them. Well, the chainsaw I only carried 30 feet to cut a log right near the car - but I sharpened it yesterday so I had to use it. How nice to cut through a 10 inch log in 30 seconds instead of 15 minutes. But I gotta love my 42 inch 2-man crosscut saw which I don't mind carrying for miles and even cut a rotten 18-incher with. Then there was the beech with 3 large branches 8 feet above the trail that we worked on for an hour - kind of like a giant game of pick-up-sticks (if we cut this first, then we can cut that, and that's going to move this way when it breaks, and you don't want to stand there...) Lots of fun.

[Aggie_Ama]

No fair! You can't delete your drunk posting, it is community amusement.

It is kind of like when my best friend drunk dials me and leaves me very funny voicemails. Somehow those always get forwarded back to her AND her DH. Then I play them on speaker for my mom (who loves her like another daughter).:p

[Trek420]

Lovely day at the coast, stopped at a beach along the way then down to the little town of Pescadero. We stopped for lunch here for
artichoke heart soup, Anchor Steam Chirstmas Ale, the beeeeest bread:

www.duartestavern.com

stopped at a little gallery here:

www.madeinpescadero.com

Knott's making pasta puttanesca with Artichoke heart pasta sauce (also made in Pescadero) and TJs brown rice pasta (review to be posted in the " :eek: I can't eat wheat" thread in the future.) and we're sipping on "Two Buck Chuck."

[Kitsune06]

I wish I remembered what we posted initially. ATM, we're working on a Yule log, tag-team beating a mixture of egg yolk and sugar/water. Imagine the plays on words coming out of thisl, then the laughter therein/thereof/ er. regarding it.

[bikerz]

We had lunch with BikerZ, MelissaM, Spazzdog and Theresa (non TD'er, imagine that!) at Sauls

We had a great time at lunch, and I enjoyed seeing Trak and Spazz again, and meeting Knot and Teresa. I was, unfortunately, pretty distracted because just moments before everyone showed up I realized I had lost my wallet somewhere with 3 blocks of where we met in downtown Berkeley, with $100 cash, business and personal credit cards, my drivers license, etc. :eek: And just before the holidays. Oh, I was so mad! :mad: Spazzdog and Mel hunted around a bit while Trek and Knot were parking, but no luck. :(

But, this morning I got a message at work that my wallet had been found 2 towns away in front of a yoga studio! Yay! :) Everything was present and accounted for (except the $100), and according to the CC companies, there have been no charges on any of my cards. Whew! I feel like I dodged a major PITA experience there. And now my friends and family do get Christmas presents after all!

ETA: Whoops - just noticed my business credit card is missing, but I put a hold on it yesterday, so there's only that one to deal with.

[Trek420]

This is Knott, too lazy to change from Trek's login to my own:
BikerZ, we are both SOOOO glad your wallet was found!! Two towns away at a yoga studio? Namaste! And only the money was taken, well, money being taken does s*ck, but it could've been ugly. What a relief!

And yes, parking took us a while...;)

Happy 2nd night of Chanukah, y'all!

[kelownagirl]

So you and Trek have been parking huh? :rolleyes:

[Trek420]

This is Trek :)

Yes, holiday traffic is horrid here, horrid I tell you. It takes so long to park, we parked at Trader Joes, in Berkeley, at the beach, Pescadero, the dog park, BART station, at Half Moon Bay...;)

[Bikingmomof3]

I have had the best weekend of my life! It is sad to think soon my dear friends will be heading home. I shall be cherishing every moment we have together tomorrow. I do not have the words to adequately express just how important this visit is to me.

X-thank you for ignoring me and coming out to see me, rather than going to the ocean. :)

Kit-I am so glad you were willing to fly out on such short notice. :)

Mush warning-

(((((((((X & Kit))))))))) I love you both, you have made my Christmas. I am a much better person for having both of you in my life.

[kelownagirl]

Gotta love mush. :D

Glad you had a good weekend BMo3. :)

One more week of work for me then two weeks off - yahoo!!

[Duck on Wheels]

This is Trek :)

Yes, holiday traffic is horrid here, horrid I tell you. It takes so long to park, we parked at Trader Joes, in Berkeley, at the beach, Pescadero, the dog park, BART station, at Half Moon Bay...;)

At the dog park? Does Mae now go in at dog parks? Has she realized she's a dog? Or is she still practicing by looking in from outside? Good on her, one way or the other!

[Bikingmomof3]

Kit beating the eggs and sugar for the Yule Log frosting
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e368/knittingmomof3/100_2239.jpg


Whose idea was it for X to be in charge?


Kit posting to TD
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e368/knittingmomof3/100_2243.jpg


These girls are so much fun to be around! :D :cool: :D

[Xrayted]

one last log-in from my computer before we head back over to Jen's for the goodbye. I'm already crying thinking about it. Thank you to Jen, her hubby and wonderful children for such a warm welcome. (you should meet her kids, they are fantastic!) I can't express in words what this trip has done for me. It was the best Christmas gift I've ever received.

Kit is finally adjusted to our time zone, I think, and now she has to return back to the PNW. It has been a blast to meet her, ride the local trail with her and just all around get to know her better. Very cool person in the extreme. Thanks A, it was the best time I've ever had. (in Ohio ;))

Time to get out of here and Kit is bugging me to get off the computer so she can post too. cya TD!!

have a wonderful day and be safe

X.

[mimitabby]

good morning all you gals. Jennifer/Bmo3 I did not see any of your kids in the pictures.. were they avoiding the TE/TD girls? or were you protecting them?

I am back to work and only 1 coworker (out of 5 so far) still is without power. She came in wearing a hat and a big heavy sweater. She has a gas ambiance kind of fireplace thingy so her house isn't 30 degrees inside.


it's COLD out.

take care
Mimi

[Bikingmomof3]

Mimi,
My kids love Kit and X. I do not like to post the boys' photos on the internet. os I try not to. I think X has a picture of Mr. Z making Christmas cookies. If it turned out she will most likely post it when she is home and rested.

I am happy you are once again with power and hope everyone has their power restored soon.

[Kitsune06]

just getting a quick post in before we leave- X is in the shower and I'm (mostly) packed and ready to go...

When BMo3 and X came to me with this plan, all those anxieties that come with unexpected travel popped into my mind, but there were a couple of main things that really stilled those for me. The first and foremost was the knowledge that these two ladies, I would trust my life with. They're incredible women and y'know, I feel like my life (and recent stress) has been so much more handleable with friends like them.... The second was actually a horoscope (I can hear the shouts of "Hippy!" from the audience) that said, on the day all these plans came to fruition, that it was a very important day to be with my friends- that meeting with them could prove life-changing.

Rarely can one say a horoscope is so accurate. All of us needed this weekend, and whether it was the step back from everyday life, or being with people who 'get' us, or any other of the multitude of things that came with this vacation/visit/etc, it was life-changing. It was healing. Now I know what I need to do and how I need to go from the point where I left off in OR. I know I've got friends who are willing to be there, to support me emotionally, and get me drunk when I need it.

BMo3- thank you so much, with all my heart, for this trip. I only wish I had more time to spend with you and your family. Ladies' days out (or in.)

X- thank you for being an incredible friend. You point me in the right direction (even if you manage to get lost yourself...;)) and keep me on the right track. Thank you for everything.

I love you both... and now I have to stop typing b/c the mush is going to make me cry. On with the shades. :rolleyes:

[Duck on Wheels]

... The second was actually a horoscope (I can hear the shouts of "Hippy!" from the audience) that said, on the day all these plans came to fruition, that it was a very important day to be with my friends- that meeting with them could prove life-changing.

Well, OK, maybe the horoscope author was just playing safe, since meeting with friends can almost always be life-changing if we really open up to it. But hey, sometimes we need a reminder. And yeah, occasionally horoscope reminders are handy. The one I remember best was the day before my big surgery. One line was (translated from memory:) that I would soon be rid of something that had been bothering me a long time. Now I may be skeptical to horoscopes most days, but that day it was really a boost to my courage right when I needed it most. :)

[spokewench]

Kit, BMO2, X: I'm so glad that you gals were able to get together. It looks like you had a wonderful time and that it was what you all needed. Thanks for letting us other TDers enjoy some of the fun with the pictures.

Nanci: I love the turtle. Wish I could keep a turtle in Flagstaff. I don't think he would like it much here.

Mimi: I'm not sure if I missed a post or not. Did your power come back on yet? Hope so. It's pretty cold up there.

We got a little bit of that storm (little snow yesterday) not very much. They were calling for a lot of wind too, but it was not that much. We're pretty used to lots of wind in Flag so it didn't really measure up. It's cloudy today and they are calling for a little snow, but I'm not too hopeful.

Re: the family that got lost and Father Kim who died. Did you all hear about the snowmobile guy who reported to the searchers a day or two before they found the car, that he had seen covered up footprints on a logging road? Seems weird to me that they could not have found those people quicker????

[mimitabby]

yeah, Spoke, I was one of the lucky ones, our house was without power for 24 hours. There are people who still are out, and might be out for a week!

Fortunately those who live in the suburbs are more prepared than us city folk because they have a lot of outages.
We on the other hand, didn't even have wood for our fireplace!

[Nanci]

I'm going to cry.

Vet visit: $35
Gram Stain: $25
Shot: $25

(Not _that_ bad so far)

Repeat $25 E/O day for five days: $125

Nice.

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

Nanci,
Can you get in touch with a local nature conservancy group near you? Perhaps an Audobon Society chapter? I bet there would be SOME nature group near you that might be willing to sponser getting that box turtle back to good health and released back to the wild again. You might even write your local paper and ask for a sponser. I KNOW there would be nature lovers somewhere near you who would be willing to sponser "Lil' Buddy"'s treatments.
Try it, it will very likely work.

[Nanci]

At least I can bring him in to work so he can get a chest x-ray before he goes to the vet, so he can't surprise me with $150 x-rays...

Nanci

[Bikingmomof3]

"Do I make the tree look fat?", X inquires

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e368/knittingmomof3/100_2252.jpg

note- X is holding our attempt at making a Yule Log

Kit, X, and Me on the last day together

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e368/knittingmomof3/100_2260.jpg

[Bluetree]

I'm just a lurker on this thread (honestly, I can't keep up most of the time!)
but BMo3, X, Kit, you guys made my day.

It is so wonderful to see you gals having such a great time. Thanks for sharing it with everyone! :D :D :D

[Bruno28]

Yeah-

BMO3, X and Kit - thanks for a great story.

Best wishes to you all:D

[AllezGirl]

BMo3, X, Kit: I'm so glad you had such a great visit! Thanks for posting the pictures so we could all be there in spirit!

[AllezGirl]

Lisa S. H.-Great turtle story, thanks for posting it!

Nanci-you're photos are great. My 8 yo son thinks you're the bomb for having all of those critters! (and so do I, of course :) )

Trek and Knot-...parking!?! :cool:

[Offthegrid]

AG, when did you get back? Man, I'm missing a ton.

But, I'm off to bed. Have a dentist's appointment in New Jersey in the morning, so I gotta leave here no later than 6 a.m. Chao.

[crazycanuck]

Three days & counting..We leave for NZ on friday night...Best thing is...We're taking our MTN BIKES!!!! YYAYAYAYAYAYAYYAY..

Hunuas, Woodhill & Rotorua...:D Ahhhhh...can't wait.

The weather better change before i get there. It'll be colder than Perth..15c...no humidity, rain...:eek:

c

[kelownagirl]

Have a good trip CC! I'd love to go to NZ. I guess we'll be heading to Australia in a year or two to visit dh's dd. Will ahve to go to NZ too while we're there...

[kelownagirl]

Can't believe the 3000 KM I rode this year did not prepare me for 2 hours of bowling. I can barely walk today. How can that be? :rolleyes: :eek: :D

[margo49]

Three days & counting..We leave for NZ on friday night...Best thing is...We're taking our MTN BIKES!!!! YYAYAYAYAYAYAYYAY..


Wow! Lucky you! Should be great riding!
Say hello to the Pacific Ocean and the Tasman Sea for me!
Tell us all about it, with pictures!

[Kitsune06]

Got home and, like X, pretty much went straight to bed. A little dinner, made the bed, into the pjs, and bed. 8 hrs and still a little tired, but it's all good.

Missin' the ladies already. Had a dream abt the trip where BMo3 was telling me how to make a special burner for the scented wax, and more hanging out and another ride w/ X. Lots of fun. :)

Just gotta wait 'til the next mini-reunion, I suppose! (and wishing I had a camera) but all the pics up on here are going to be saved and photoshopped. Muahahahahahahaha!;)

[Xrayted]

:D Yeah, I got home last night, didn't even unpack the car. Stumbled in, grabbed a quick 5 minute shower (Jen would be so pleased, only 5 minutes) and crawled directly into bed. Slept like the dead for 8 hours and I'm still tired... we should do this again real soon. :D (Next time I may fly though. :o)

Here's the final trip mileage on the Jeep.
http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r155/cbmickey/ohio%20trip/endmileage-1.jpg

A few extra pics too...
Jen baking in the kitchen...
http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r155/cbmickey/ohio%20trip/jeninkitchen.jpg

Kit - mtb babe extraordinaire
http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r155/cbmickey/ohio%20trip/mtbqueen.jpg

Cincinnati (edit: Jen says I was no where Cincy - it's columbus. D'oh!)
http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r155/cbmickey/ohio%20trip/cincindaylight.jpg

Cincinnati... (edit: nope still Columbus... :o) I wouldn't advise trying a shot like this while driving, talking on the cell and shooting pics out the back window :eek: I loved the perspective though...
http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r155/cbmickey/ohio%20trip/backwindowcinc.jpg

A few more pics later when I have time. Anyone wanting to see Kit flicking me the bird as she lands in Ohio, PM me on that one. It's fuzzy but not fuzzy enough to be able to post on TE. :cool: :D (ya punk!)
Well, back to reality now. Gotta go to work. Blech.

see ya TD! Have a blast today and be safe...

X.

[Bikingmomof3]

When the heck did you go to Cinci? I know you are directionally challenged and all. :D You passed Dayton and Columbus...:p

[mimitabby]

When the heck did you go to Cinci? I know you are directionally challenged and all. :D You passed Dayton and Columbus...:p

Now Jen if you hadn't mentioned this, none of the rest would have known they went out of their way!

[Bikingmomof3]

Mimi,
I just need to know when and how she managed to get there. ;) My kids, especially the twins, loved both of them. :D They are already planning family trips to PA and OR.

[Xrayted]

Hmmm, maybe it was Columbus... I dunno. All of Ohio looks the same to me, flat. I'll check my map and figure out where I was then.
Now since you corrected me on that one, I have another pic to post before work...

Notice who's done first?
http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r155/cbmickey/ohio%20trip/buckeyes.jpg

see ya

[Bikingmomof3]

Nanci-any news on Krusty's health? Is there a tortoise rescue group near you?

Trek & Knot- :D

OTG-I hope all went well at the dentist.

CC-Have a fantastic trip and take lots of pictures.

KG-are you still sore from bowling?

Kit-I am missing both of you as well. It is so quiet here. The twins keep asking when we get to go visit you in OR. Hey, when you photoshop the pics, take the one X posted of me I the pick jacket and slim me up. Any frontal pics, shrink the bust area on me, please.

X- A five minute shower? You make me so proud!! :D

[Bikingmomof3]

Hmmm, maybe it was Columbus... I dunno. All of Ohio looks the same to me, flat. I'll check my map and figure out where I was then.
Now since you corrected me on that one, I have another pic to post before work...

Notice who's done first?

see ya


Get to work! No more pics of me. Computer monitors around the globe will crack. :eek: That is Columbus. :D

[Kitsune06]

d'oh! my work computer won't load any of these pictures. (urls are blocked by the main firewall to keep us worker bees working...)

I guess mwbr, but that "mtb babe extraordinare" thing scares me... It's killing me not to see that pic... :rolleyes:

[Bikingmomof3]

No worries, it is a good pic.:)

[Xrayted]

Kit - Buuwahahahaha! :eek: :D

BMo3 - I went back and edited the post from Cincin... um, I mean Columbus. Happy now? :p Thanks for calling me on my cell on the way to work and harrassing me verbally too. I needed that. Ask Kit, I was lost everywhere we went. I think I must have turned around about 8 times when we were driving different places. And that's with good directions too. :o I even got us lost when she was driving my Jeep cuz I forgot to pay attention. I would cry lack of sleep, but truly, I am always like that. Kit got to see more of Ohio than she anticipated that way though. :D

CC - Have fun in NZ. Wish I was there.

KG - I can feel for ya on the bowling. Strains my shoulders and I get sore across my right butt cheek. :confused:

OTG - How was Sat. night? Thanks for keeping me company on my long drive out. Much appreciated.

AG - Thanks to you too for talking to me on my drive. Remember, some of that is confidential info. ;) Did you two get together on Sun afterall?

All of you PNW'ers - So glad to see the storms weren't worse for you. Still sound pretty bad though. Yikes.

Trek and Knot - sounds like you're having a lovely time. :cool: (edited for Kit's benefit, sheesh... )

CA girls - I think it's been a TE reunion weekend all over. Isn't it nice to hang out with people who "get it"? I'm so glad they found your wallet bikerz. Sucks about the company card though.

mimi - no, Jen's kids didn't avoid us at all. On the contrary, they seemed to actually like us. Strange, huh?

Bluetree - Thanks! It was an awesome experience. I highly recommend that everyone goes to visit BMo3 and her family.

Nanci - Good luck with "the shelled one". Hope it works out for you. Isn't there a turtle rescue place south of you. I can't remember what it's called but I'll try to lood it up later if you want me to. BTW, did I ever tell you that I had 4 turtles? 2 painted and 2 red-eared sliders. I really enjoyed watching them swimming around and sunning themselves.

OK, I think that's it for now.

[Nanci]

I think all the turtle rescue places are for sea turtles...He loves his heating pad!

Nanci

[Kitsune06]

Kit - Buuwahahahaha! :eek: :D
Oh, how the tides have turned. Suddenly I'm the one at the mercy of peculiar purveyors of pretty popular (and possibly pernicious) pictures!


BMo3 - I went back and edited the post from Cincin... um, I mean Columbus. Happy now? :p Thanks for calling me on my cell on the way to work and harrassing me verbally too. I needed that. Ask Kit, I was lost everywhere we went. I think I must have turned around about 8 times when we were driving different places. And that's with good directions too. :o I even got us lost when she was driving my Jeep cuz I forgot to pay attention. I would cry lack of sleep, but truly, I am always like that. Kit got to see more of Ohio than she anticipated that way though. :D
Everywhere we went. I was little help, though.
X- "Does this look familiar?"
A- "Yeah.... I think so."
X- "But from which trip? To the hotel, or to (BMo3)'s or to the highway...?"
A- "Uh... I... That's a really good point. Hmm."

Then winding through her probably very straightforward neighborhood:
X- "Is this the road we turn on?"
A- "I have no idea. It all looks the same."
X- I think this is the street.
A- Okay.
X and A take that street, pass by the street they should've gone down, and make a circle.
X- "Ok, so that wasn't the way to go."
A- "It.... it all looks the same how is that possible???
I wish we'd had a recorder and could just lay out a script of our direction-finding. :D It'd probably kill. :D


All of you PNW'ers - So glad to see the storms weren't worse for you. Still sound pretty bad though. Yikes.
Got power. Was actually surprised to flick on the switches and actually have the lights go on. and Heat!

[QUOTE=Xrayted;153834]Trek and Knot - sounds like you're a lovely time. :cool:
I bet they had a lovely time, too. (says the typo police) :eek: :eek: :eek:


mimi - no, Jen's kids didn't avoid us at all. On the contrary, they seemed to actually like us. Strange, huh?

Jen remembered to tell them that we were horribly mean and that X was Amish. I mean c'mon. How can you NOT steal glances then??? :D :D :D

[KnottedYet]

Kit - "a lovely time" yeah, wouldn't y'all love to know... ;)

I only have 2 days left here in suddenly-sunny-after-all California. Darn.:(

[Xrayted]

Kit - ok, I fixed the Freudian slip, er, um, typo. *grumble* :rolleyes: Remember, I have more pics and Jen has the drunken ones, so careful woman!! :cool: :D

[Kitsune06]

X- Ya walked right into that one. How could I not?! Lead me not to temptation- I can find it damm well on my own! (Considering my sense of direction, it may well be the only thing I *CAN* find on my own!)

Knot- I'm sure we'd love to know, but what happens on vacation stays ...er... on vacation.
...which is why Jen and X will be dears and not post half the awful pictures they have of me. :D :D Right? ...ladies? buddies?

[Bluetree]

NO FAIR!!! NO FAIR!!!

One is NOT allowed to come on TE and insinuate about drunken bacchanals with fellow TEers while refraining from divulging the details and/or photographic evidence.

We're waiting for those pictures... :p

[Xrayted]

Sorry, but Jen has all those. (I was too drunk to take pics :o) Maybe you can bribe her with chocolate for them. ;) I have no problem with it. The really wild stuff I did was not caught on camera... What happens in Ohio, stays in Ohio... :D

[Bikingmomof3]

What happens in Ohio, stays in Ohio... :D

I thought that only applied to Las Vegas. :p

[Bikingmomof3]

NO FAIR!!! NO FAIR!!!

One is NOT allowed to come on TE and insinuate about drunken bacchanals with fellow TEers while refraining from divulging the details and/or photographic evidence.

We're waiting for those pictures... :p


Bluetree,
I forget which time zone you are in, but if you happen to be on the east coast and choose to sleep, you miss out on a lot of good posts, trust me, I miss out on a lot. :rolleyes: If my migraine meds kick in I just may post a picture ot two. ;)

[Kitsune06]

What happens in Ohio stays in Ohio :DI thought that only applied to Las Vegas. :p

Depends on how much fun you have in Ohio.

If fun had in Ohio is greater than or equal to fun had in Las Vegas, then LV can be substituted with OH in the above statement. Relatability of mishaps, events and bacchanals is inversely proportional to the :eek: factor of said mishaps, events, and bacchanals.

Given the above known laws of relatability, I can draw two firm conclusions.
1) I have never been to LV, so naturally fun had in OH is much greater. Thus I can say "What happens in Ohio, stays in Ohio."
2) I think our group efforts on the cookies, chinese, etc, while happily plastered rated high enough on the :eek: factor that the relatibility is at or very close to 0.

Sorry, ladies. :D

[Xrayted]

Given the above known laws of relatability, I can draw two firm conclusions.
1) I have never been to LV, so naturally fun had in OH is much greater. Thus I can say "What happens in Ohio, stays in Ohio."
2) I think our group efforts on the cookies, chinese, etc, while happily plastered rated high enough on the :eek: factor that the relatibility is at or very close to 0.

Sorry, ladies. :D

Huh?? I need another nap. Still hurtin'. :rolleyes:

Remember Kit, I had almost a full day there before you arrived. Ohio is a swingin' place afterall... :D

[Kitsune06]

My ears were tingling- I figured I was getting posted at on the forum.
I got there just as soon as I could, I swear. :D
I hope you ladies didn't have too much fun without me... :rolleyes:

[Xrayted]

OTG - Well, I'm finally getting around to buying the bike for my other niece on my way home tonight. I had to wait until I had the rack on. No way was I going through what I went through the first time in get the smaller one into the back of that thing. I'm so in the Christmas spirit after having been to Ohio.

Kit - Your ears were tingling cuz of all those rings you've got in them. It's called nerve damage woman!! ;) :D

I can't wait to go back to Ohio. Definitely one of the best getaways I've ever had. Makes me start to re-think my spring vacation pick. Hey BMo3, wanna come along to the PNW? At least for a long weekend? It would be fun. (Really.) So can ya, huh? :cool: I was 10 minutes late for work today. I had them make me a new name badge so everything is relatively ok. *sigh* I never did find out what kind of animal I hit on my way home. (interesting timing that you were on the phone with me and heard it thump) No damage to the front of the Jeep that I can see though.

Long day at work. Very tired still but happy about it all the same. I've still got to unrack the bike and clean it all up. (I know, I know, bike neglect. Bad X, no cookie for me.) Good thing it's locked onto the rack. Hey, at least I fed the fish when I got home. (S.O. forgot. :eek:) None of them were floating but they were eyeing each other up suspiciously...

X.

[tygab]

am I allowed to even post on this thread? hmmm, I'm not sure but I will anyway...
well, I noticed this tonight:


Threads: 11,398, Posts: 152,198, Members: 3,306, Active Members: 666


<in my best SNL Church lady voice>Satan? Could it be Satan?

[kelownagirl]

am I allowed to even post on this thread? hmmm, I'm not sure but I will anyway...
well, I noticed this tonight:


<in my best SNL Church lady voice>Satan? Could it be Satan?


Well, if I am, you should be. :D

Active members are down to 665 now. :) (wonder who is considered "active"?)

[Kitsune06]

funny you should mention it- my fish died while I was gone. hm. *sigh*

Finally got around to making dinner, throwing stuff in the wash, and sitting down at the computer.

Not as tired as some, but then again, it IS only 6:30.

[Offthegrid]

My dentist appointment went fine. I kept up my cavity-free streak. :D <-- so everybody can see my perty smile. They didn't know about gluten in toothpaste, but said they'd be interested in having a list after I research it. (preliminarily, it looks like some version of Crest, many of Colgate and all of Tom's Natural are gluten-free.)

Kit: Sorry about your fish. :(

X: Sat is a discussion for elsewhere. ;) Sorry to hear about the animal hit -- glad the Jeep looks OK.

[Offthegrid]

<in my best SNL Church lady voice>Satan? Could it be Satan?

Only if Satan were a woman, and we all know that's not the case. ;)

[crazycanuck]

Ok..I want the truth & notin but da truth k..:eek: This is officer Canuck

Did you three ladies try the vegemite? I didn't see any squeamish photos so i am wonderin..

X-please don't endanger yerself taking photos just for us!!!! Thank you so much for taking them!!!!

off & away...have a gooodd afternoon.

Hey I am a satan on a bike!!! The evil canuck comes out when i pass slow people...:eek:

c

[kelownagirl]

My legs still hurt but not as bad as yesterday.

Christmas concert is over - yay! The kids did well and I didn't make any noticeable mistakes on the piano.

Cross you fingers for good weather on Saturday. (And good weather Tuesday so I can come home again)

Love all the pics - keep 'em coming! Especially nice one of the MTBike girl... :D


3 more sleeps... I am sooooooooo tired....

[kelownagirl]

Oooh, forgot to tell you - our kokanee salmon eggs started hatching today! Last September, I got to squeeze the eggs and milt for the mom and dad. Now they are alevin with egg sacs attached to their bellies. In early spring, they will change into fry and we get to start feeding them. In May, we release the little fish into the creek where they belong. Too cute...

Last year we had a two-headed fish. I called him Jacob Two-Two. He lived quite a long time. I've got a picture of him somewhere that I will post when if I can find it.

Our AO's last day is Friday. YAYAYAYAYAYAYAYAYAYAYAYAYAYAYAYAYAYAY!!!!!!! :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D

(Hope she doesn't read this website. :eek: :rolleyes: )

[kelownagirl]

Me again. Here's a closeup of Jacob Two-Two.

[DirtDiva]

CC - I'm thinking they can't have. Perhaps if the Vegemite was delivered in cookie form they might be tempted..? ;)

[mimitabby]

Oooh, forgot to tell you - our kokanee salmon eggs started hatching today! Last September, I got to squeeze the eggs and milt for the mom and dad. Now they are alevin with egg sacs attached to their bellies. In early spring, they will change into fry and we get to start feeding them. In May, we release the little fish into the creek where they belong. Too cute...

Last year we had a two-headed fish. I called him Jacob Two-Two. He lived quite a long time. I've got a picture of him somewhere that I will post when if I can find it.

Our AO's last day is Friday. YAYAYAYAYAYAYAYAYAYAYAYAYAYAYAYAYAYAY!!!!!!! :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D

(Hope she doesn't read this website. :eek: :rolleyes: )
what is an AO?
Alternate Ombudsman? Alienated Orderly?
How cool that you raise salmon for your stream. Have any ever left and come back to spawn?

[kelownagirl]

AO - Administrative Officer (AKA our Principal... )

Well we haven't tagged the little guys ever but we always hope they come back eventually. :)

[tygab]

AO - Administrative Officer (AKA our Principal... )

Well we haven't tagged the little guys ever but we always hope they come back eventually. :)

That is very cool! I wish our rivers were in better health for fish. There arevirtually no salmon rivers left anywhere in the NE, even into the Maritimes :(. Even with the addition of fish ladders, it's just been very hard to keep any populations going. But we can always hope and keep working to better the odds for them.

[kelownagirl]

Our school is part of a program sponsored by the Ministry of Fisheries. They educate the public, bring in the spawning salmon, provide all the materials, and we babysit the eggs, then the alevin, and the fry for the winter/spring. The schools act as nurseries for the baby salmon and then we release them into the wild in the spring. The kids are so interested in all of it. My friend is the teacher-librarian at our school and she organizes it all. My class gets very involved and we help to "milk" the salmon in the fall, then we feed them 3-4 times a day in the spring. I even have to go into the school several times a day during spring break to feed the little guys so we get pretty attached. It is so cool to release them later.

[DirtDiva]

What a great programme - sounds like heaps of fun. :)

[crazycanuck]

I wish the NZ/Aust girls could have a meet up/biking weekend...
:(

Dirt...are you all packed & ready to move back to the UK? Are you going back to London to a full time position??

c

[Duck on Wheels]

UK Elephant and her BF arrived last night. :D This morning she borrowed RubySlipperz (my Trek 7.6) and went out for some hill training in the rain (snow is gone again :(, but that does allow for more biking :) ). She did a short route with some steep hills and reports having no prob getting up them. Tomorrow she plans to do a longer route with a couple longer hills. One problem translating this into confidence for the ALC6 is that my bike has a triple crank and hers has a compact double, so I've got some more "senior" gears than she'll have available next summer. Still, she seemed happy to have made these so handily after all that flatland training in Essex.

OK. That's it for now. Off to do some more xmas shopping. Gotta have m&m's ready for decorating the gingerbread cookies. I made the dough yesterday and UK is going to bake them tonight and try to sell some at DH's and my respective offices tomorrow for her ALC6 fund.

[Xrayted]

CrazyC - No we didn't get to the Vegemite. Sorry. But all that means is I have another reason to go visit BMo3 and her lovely family. Yea!! :D BTW, don't worry, I stopped talking while I shot that back window pic. :rolleyes: Actually, I liked the scene in my rear view mirror so I just pointed over my shoulder and shot a couple hoping to get one to keep. I liked the perspective of having my bike in the foreground. Of course, I should have paid more attention to what city it actually was... :D

tygab - welcome to TD! Any snowshoeing up there yet? At some point late next spring, I will be looking to buy a kayak. (Used to have one but I borrow one from a friend when I get the bug right now) Definitely a single but also maybe a tandem so I'm gonna pick your brain on what to get, what brands to stay away from... I'll mostly be inland on lakes and rivers. No sit on top style for me. Leaning more toward a touring kayak than a recreational one. I want at least one dry storage hatch. Not sure if I need a rudder, it's not like we get waves in the lake.

Duck - glad to hear your daughter arrived safe and sound.

KG - what a great program.

OTG - ya don't swallow the toothpaste, do you? Yeah, Sat is a discussion best left elsewhere... so PM me when you can. :)

Well, I've got tons to do before work so I'll see y'all later.

Be happy and safe...

X.

[Duck on Wheels]

Our school is part of a program sponsored by the Ministry of Fisheries. They educate the public, bring in the spawning salmon, provide all the materials, and we babysit the eggs, then the alevin, and the fry for the winter/spring. The schools act as nurseries for the baby salmon and then we release them into the wild in the spring. The kids are so interested in all of it. My friend is the teacher-librarian at our school and she organizes it all. My class gets very involved and we help to "milk" the salmon in the fall, then we feed them 3-4 times a day in the spring. I even have to go into the school several times a day during spring break to feed the little guys so we get pretty attached. It is so cool to release them later.

Do the kids get very attached to them, or do they see them as future food? And either way, do you notice any difference in how they think about the river and ocean environments? I recall my son's preschool started an adopt-a-tree project in response to an outbreak of tree vandalism around the playground. It really helped.

[Trek420]

Me again. Here's a closeup of Jacob Two-Two.

Kelowna: Knott just quipped "maybe he shoulda been named Desmond?"

Duck please convey to UK: Don't worry about the triple. It will translate well. Somewhere here is a discussion of triples vs. compact doubles and get this...the gear range is virtualy the same!! :) Just a slightly bigger "jump" between gears on a CD vs your triple.

Plus UK's Specialized Cross bike is stiffer, probably lighter, skinnier wheels therefore less rolling resistance...fighting headwinds on the flats is a great way to train for hills, she will fly up in June....or at least past me.

Knott wanted to see me do Aikido so we dropped by the dojo last night. Tuesday nights womens class (all our classes are mixed, beginner/advanced/men and women. There's just one women specific class) fit right in our plan between dropping by the LBS and dinner. As I walked in, bow, start to take my shoes off the most senior student there, a brown belt and really a kid flies up to me "thank you thank you, you have saved me. Now I don't have to teach class"

Huh? :eek: me? :confused: teach? :confused:

Seems Pat, our head instructor who always teaches was called off to a funeral for a former students child, very sad.

I've never taught a class, over 20 years of training and I've never....so Knott got to see me about at my about my most nervous :o

[Duck on Wheels]

Trek: So how'd the class GO? I imagine you'd be an excellent teacher. What I know about biking I learned from you, although there probably was a time I ran along holding the back of the seat while you learned to ride. Couldn't have lasted long, tho. I think you were more like Ramona and learned 2-wheel balancing by tipping your tricycle sideways.

X: I'm hoping you didn't _really_ take those photos while driving! I'm hoping you're kidding, but don't know you well enough to be sure. Although the bits about the back window and the cell phone do seem to push the notion over the top. Nice pictures, btw.

Kit: So sorry the fish died. :(

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

Actually, I liked the scene in my rear view mirror so I just pointed over my shoulder and shot a couple hoping to get one to keep. I liked the perspective of having my bike in the foreground. Of course, I should have paid more attention to what city it actually was... :D

Yer makin me pretty nervous here...talking on cell phone while driving...taking photos while driving...not knowing what city you're driving past...not knowing what kind of animal you hit with your car....
Gee, I hope you didn't find any bike parts on your front bumper when you got home! :eek: :(

[Xrayted]

Mapquest doesn't tell you what city you just drove by, it only tells you what road you're supposed to be on. I was on the right road so I was happy with that.
I did stop talking on the cell to my best friend (who was keeping me awake so I figure that's safer than falling asleep :rolleyes:) cuz I saw that neat pic of the city line over my bike through the rear view. I simply rested the camera on my shoulder and took a few shots. I had no idea if I was pointed in the right direction or not cuz I wasn't about to turn around and look right then. Never previewed the pics 'til I got to the room later on. Got some nice pics of my backseat and the side windows if ya want to see them...

No way to know what kind of animal that was. It was pitch dark on I-70 doing 70mph just to keep up with traffic and not get hit from behind. Just saw it come across my front end and hit the left side bumper. Light brown about the size of a medium dog. Tall concrete side rails right there so I think it had to be something that can jump pretty well. No signs of damage or hair anywhere. Jen heard it though. (she was keeping me awake too - thanks Jen. :D )

[Kitsune06]

CrazyC - No we didn't get to the Vegemite. Sorry. But all that means is I have another reason to go visit BMo3 and her lovely family. Yea!! :D BTW, don't worry, I stopped talking while I shot that back window pic. :rolleyes: Actually, I liked the scene in my rear view mirror so I just pointed over my shoulder and shot a couple hoping to get one to keep. I liked the perspective of having my bike in the foreground. Of course, I should have paid more attention to what city it actually was... :D
I waffle on whether or not I want you driving my neon. Then again, you have much more confidence than I do. Feel like racing a ricer Honda on I-5? ;)


OTG - ya don't swallow the toothpaste, do you? Yeah, Sat is a discussion best left elsewhere... so PM me when you can. :)

:eek:
In the case of toothpaste, always spit.

[Xrayted]

Kit - remember, I've seen your driving too... :eek: :D I thought about renting a Harley while I'm out there, just for a day. Maybe some take a long ride in the mountains, pack a picnic lunch, veg out amongst the tall grasses and trees.

Knot - so how was Trek-the-Aikido-teacher? Bet she kicked azz, didn't she... :cool:

[mimitabby]

TE is moribund today. I am so so so so bored. I got my bike back from the shop yesterday minus the front wheel. DH promises me that any 700 wheel will do.
I hope he's right because i have my appt with the bike pt guy Eric Moen next week and seems like i ought to have my very own bike to show him how i am doing. The wheel is still at the LBS because the cones i need for it are special special ordered. They are different from all the ones in the catalog and even Campagnolo did not have them in stock. (Some other place does fortunately)
Interesting, i am getting attached to the bike. I oiled (greased?) the chain with the special yellow lube that they sold me at Elliott bikes finally.
It smells, interesting. I have to take my stuff off Eden's bike and give it back to her (after Christmas) since I can't ride it anymore because of the big toe overlap thing going. I feel like Goofy now... my feet have seemed to grow.

Jennifer? Have you recovered from the visit?

[Kitsune06]

I was going to post a section of lyrics from the Avalanches, but on reading them, I realized the music said far more than the words did alone.

Shame.

But you can listen here (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Avalanches#Samples) for a snip of my favorite song by them; "Frontier Psychiatrist". I find if I can't find words for something, lyrics will generally say it better.

"Since I left you, I've found the world so new"
-Track 1

[Duck on Wheels]

... I find if I can't find words for something, lyrics will generally say it better.

"Since I left you, I've found the world so new"
-Track 1

Ah yes, the power of poetry. But is it that poets are so much better than we at putting thoughts into words, or is it that they leave the words tantalizingly open-ended and we fill in with our thoughts? Just musing ... Could be the new cough medicine ...

[Lise]

ARGH! Losing mind...can barely get to TE much less keep up with TD... I sit here scarfing shrimp stir fry from Whole Foods--hey, if the stress level's through the roof, at least try to eat well. I just realized that I'm only working a 12 hr shift next Sat, not a 24, as I thought. Woo-hoo! Feels like a Christmas present to me!

The BMo'3/X/Kit confab sounds FABULOUS!!! So happy for you gals!

Trek--I love it that Knot got to watch you teach!

OK, going to finish this pretty darned good food, and try to catch some zzz's before going on call tonight.

love to all! Lise

[Lise]

I just spotted this...http://news.aol.com/topnews/articles/_a/virgin-birth-on-way-for-komodo-dragon/20061220155209990001?ncid=NWS00010000000001

Wise and virginal komodo dragon brings more dragons to the world. Timely, no? :D

[KnottedYet]

Trek made a very cute (though nervous) aikido teacher. Flinging students left and right, looking and sounding fierce in her black skirty-thing. (Hakama http://www.bujindesign.com/index.php?cPath=29 ) I was impressed. And she can hold plank position on ONE foot and the EDGES of her HANDS forever... WHILE TALKING THE WHOLE TIME!!!:eek:

I head back north tomorrow at dark:30 a.m. from the airport. Bummer. Leaving Trek with a freezer stocked with posole, and the crock pot ready to plug in as we leave for the airport. She'll have hot chicken stew when she gets home from work tomorrow night. I can't be here, but maybe I can feed her anyway? :(

It's been a fabulous week.

Any Seattle TE'rs wanna do a ride in February when she comes to visit us? (Log Boom to Red Hook? She'll be on a borrowed bike, so a shortish ride might be best.)

[mimitabby]

Trek made a very cute (though nervous) aikido teacher. Flinging students left and right, looking and sounding fierce in her black skirty-thing. (Hakama http://www.bujindesign.com/index.php?cPath=29 ) I was impressed. And she can hold plank position on ONE foot and the EDGES of her HANDS forever... WHILE TALKING THE WHOLE TIME!!!:eek:

I head back north tomorrow at dark:30 a.m. from the airport. Bummer. Leaving Trek with a freezer stocked with posole, and the crock pot ready to plug in as we leave for the airport. She'll have hot chicken stew when she gets home from work tomorrow night. I can't be here, but maybe I can feed her anyway? :(

It's been a fabulous week.

Any Seattle TE'rs wanna do a ride in February when she comes to visit us? (Log Boom to Red Hook? She'll be on a borrowed bike, so a shortish ride might be best.)
well, of course, if it isn't raining cats and dogs or 22 degrees or a gale force wind, i might be up for it!

[KnottedYet]

well, of course, if it isn't raining cats and dogs or 22 degrees or a gale force wind, i might be up for it!

My daffodils were still coming up when I left last week, so I have high hopes for a "February Spring." However, if it's cold gale force rain, we won't be up for riding, either!

Hmmmm, under those conditions I'm thinking hot cocoa on the couch in front of the fireplace...;)

[mimitabby]

Knot

have you not seen your house since the storm?????? :eek:

[KnottedYet]

Nope, sure haven't! Hope it's still there....:D

(could be in for quite a surprise tomorrow, eh?)

[salsabike]

Hey, I've been busily resisting making a suggestion of a Trek visit/ride, just so as not to jinx the visit possibility. Now that we know she's coming, YES, a Red Hook lunch ride! Of course.

Honey, I bet your house is still there and okay.

[tygab]

here (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Avalanches#Samples) for a snip of my favorite song by them; "Frontier Psychiatrist". I find if I can't find words for something, lyrics will generally say it better.

"Since I left you, I've found the world so new"
-Track 1


Kitsune, I've been hoping you would post musically inclined thoughts. I am looking for new pod suggestions, particularly songs for working out... and I think from your prior posts we have somewhat similar tastes.

And to be fair, I will share a few songs that I've been listening to a lot, if you are interested...

[kelownagirl]

I think you gals should plan to ride north. :D

2 more sleeps....

[mimitabby]

I'm all for another ride to Canada, but probably NOT in February.

[Xrayted]

Look who finally decided to peek out... this is from my bigger Bird of Paradise plant. The other two are too small to bloom yet. Just in time for Christmas. :D
http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r155/cbmickey/flowers/flower.jpg

[mimitabby]

Look who finally decided to peek out... this is from my bigger Bird of Paradise plant. The other two are too small to bloom yet. Just in time for Christmas. :D
http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r155/cbmickey/flowers/flower.jpg

wow! Aren't those hard to grow?

[mimitabby]

oh, just so you guys know, pretty soon, i am going to become a grandmother. My son Tom is going to get a snake!
And Auntie Nanci is right here giving him all sorts of fab advice.

[salsabike]

What kind of snake? Hey, is that snake going to be living in your house, or is this son in his own place?

[kelownagirl]

Yikes Mimi, I hadn't thought of myself as a grandmother to my daughter's Gecko.... :D

Umm, congratulations! I think :)

X - beautiful plant / flower! I can only grow things that do not require regular care. Silk plants do ok at my house. Until they get too dusty that is...

[crazycanuck]

:D :D :D I just received the coolest package from Texas...:) :cool: :D :) :) :)

Not only that but i managed to wrangle my way into two extra days off from work...:o :D Days i wasn't supposed to be able to get off but stuffed up & now have them off!!! :o

Off to find room in my freezer for Fig Newtons as i don't want to eat them yet.

c

[Offthegrid]

Ugh, I've got a nasty cold. Found out a friend of mine has had it for two weeks. What a lovely present.

Out sick from work for the second day. I have this nice long weekend during which I *could* have done some serious training, but now I'm bumming on the couch, sucking on gluten-free fruit popsicles to soothe my sore throat and watching "The Price is Right." *cough* *cough* *cough*

[Kitsune06]

Tygab- Try DJ Hell for workouts- www.djhell.de (I think)... it was DJ Hell who first discovered Miss Kittin... oh, and for that matter, Miss Kitten's recent 2-cd set, too. very good. I like the 'night' cd best. Percolator.

X- you didn't mention any birds of paradise... :eek: I love those... but yeah, difficult to grow. Some things I'm great with. Others, I'm great at... er... killing. Hm.

BMo3- I'll be chattering your ears off again today- never fear. :) really must be more focused than I have been, though. Icandoit-Icandoit-Icandoit...


So tired... hmph. I'd rather be asleep.
...but doesn't CWR get home tomorrow? Theoretically?

[mimitabby]

Off the Grid, I hope you get to feeling better soon. Nothing worse than a holiday cold!

Salsa, we don't know what kind of snake it will be. Nanci has talked about corn snakes and california king snakes but so far she's only given us a corn snake URL. After Christmas they will make a purchase. He's buying his girlfriend the whole setup (sans snake) for Christmas and Nanci was most helpful with that too. It's the son who does not live at home. I am really happy about this because i was concerned that he didn't have the "pet gene" but he does.
BWAHAHAHAHAHA

[Xrayted]

OTG - sorry about the cold. take it easy and don't push it. you need all the energy you can muster to get through the holidays. pamper yourself for a while. life is more than training. ;)

Kit - um, guess I didn't think to bring it up in any of our conversations. if ya gotta know... Bird of Paradise is my favorite tropical flower, daisies are my favorite wildflowers and sunflowers are my favorite to grow around home. although this last year was not kind to my sunflowers. or my tomato plants - blight.

Mimi - yes they are hard to grow. they like very tight fitting pots, can only go up in size very slowly. my Mom gave me that one and the other two i bought. i feed them fish gut liquid/paste mixed in water. i've had a hard time getting the big guy to bloom every year. only a few blooms at a time too. i put them all out in my flower garden from spring to fall and bring them in during the winter. they reside in a big bay window in a spare room with southern exposure. i need to get back over to the greenhouses and ask what else i can be doing to get more blooms more often.

BMo3 - thanks for the talk last night. how was the movie? give that hubby a big hug and kiss. what a wonderful guy. :D

ok, gotta get my butt moving. it's raining outside so the traffic is gonna be at a crawl. i still need to post some stuff on my way to work. people are patiently waiting for their xmas cards and chocolate...

see ya TD. have a safe day.

[mimitabby]

oh X, i know what you have to do to get them to bloom more. Move them to Hawaii! (and you too )
:rolleyes:

[Trek420]

Just a quick note before I get back to the salt mines. After a fabulous visit Knott is now on her way back home :(

I look forward to seeing her in Seattle and maybe some PNW TE gals too. :)

[Kitsune06]

X- Sunflowers, Daisies and Birds of Paradise? I'm a rose, violet and orchid person... :) ooh! and candied violets. mmmm. and Güllüoğlu Güllü Lokum (turkish delight w/ rosewater and rose petals...) mmmm

Trek- are you surviving? *hugs*

Knot- *hug*

[Xrayted]

Mimi- I'd love to move to Hawaii among many other places. I'm checking out becoming a travel tech. I need to get some reference letters from my radiologists because I don't officially have the minimum one year experience. (although I teched for a year while I was a student, it doesn't count) If that works out, I will be going all over the place, including Hawaii. Can't take the plants with me though. I will need a donor home for them. I won't need anything more than a storage place for a few years while I do that. Maybe a friend's house to crash at in between destinations.

Knot - have a safe trip.

Trek - did she steal your kidneys this time? Well, if ya need some, I took one from Jen while I was there. It's a little abused but it's full of some really groovy meds. :D

[Kitsune06]

X- that sounds like a great deal. Thru TD I bet you could find quite a few friends' houses to crash at. I can vouch that you're not terribly annoying, either. Just a little. :D :rolleyes:

BMo3- I promised I'd behave, and I will... but someday, the evil must come out. And when it does, I'll be laughing. :cool: ;)

Another day... work work work. :) Funny, though, I feel like for once, I'm working for 'me'.

Fun lyrics for today- A selection from Weird Al- "Since You've Been Gone"
Since you've been gone
Well, it feels like I'm getting tetanus shots every day
Since you've been gone
It's like I've got an ice cream headache that won't go away
Ever since that day you left me
I've been so miserable, my dear
I feel almost as bad as I did
When you were still here :D :D :D

[Xrayted]

Gee, thanks Kit. :rolleyes: You on the other hand are very annoying. :p But in a good way...

[Kitsune06]

:rolleyes: ;) Annoying. Humph. Last I read, little sisters are required to be annoying, so I'm thinkin' I was just holding up my end of the agreement! :D:D

[KnottedYet]

Trek - did she steal your kidneys this time? Well, if ya need some, I took one from Jen while I was there. It's a little abused but it's full of some really groovy meds. :D

Naw, I stole her heart this time....:p

Back in Seattle. Man, flying is soooo much faster than driving. Who knew?
A million things to do today, then back to work tomorrow. My apt complex is still standing. I appear to have lost power at some point, but nothing in my fridge got ruined. Dog was exstatic to see me, and had a great time staying with his doggy friend. Now he's asleep. Playing with another dog for a week is exhausting, dontcha know?

Oh, dear, I gotta go xmas shopping.

SKnot is watching "Avenue Q" on the school iBook. Little does the school system know the subversive uses to which that iBook is being put...

[DebW]

Knot, did Flossie miss you? Is she jealous? Or does she have her own crush on that little Mondonico?

[Trek420]

Knot, did Flossie miss you? Is she jealous? Or does she have her own crush on that little Mondonico?

Yeah, seems since they rode the bridge together Flossie is crushing bad on the Menace the Mondonico ;)

[Bikingmomof3]

How do I get myself so behind? Darn migraines. Anyone want to go to my Neurologist appointment for me? Be there tomorrow by 10.

Snap-I need your cinnamon chip cookie recipe. Provided I can get more cinnamon chips. Mr. Z made the recipe on the back of the bag-oatmeal cinnamon chip cookies-yum!

X-come back anytime. Seriously. Zack used up the cinnamon chips-YUM. The Bird of Paradise is lovely. The movie was awesome and tonight we have Pirates of the Caribbean II. Yes, DH is definitely a keeper. :D
Hey now, my kidneys are wonderful.

Kit-I am so sorry about your fish. :( You must come back out as well. We had "your" Chinese last night. Maybe I should inform the restaurant they should change the name of the dish? ;) Choke down the evil. ;)

CC-I knew I was forgetting something! It was in the pantry, they could have helped themselves to it.

KG-glad the concert went well, the fish project sounds very cool. I like the photo of the two-headed fish and I am hoping you have excellent travel weather.

DirtDiva-you are moving back to London? I love London. I really miss custard tarts. (insert drooling smilie)

Duck on Wheels-My best friend lives in Bryggen and I miss her, but we talk all the time via phone. Send some of those cookies here, great way to raise money.

Trek-I bet you were an awesome teacher! :D It sounds as though you and Knot had a wonderful visit, I wish it could have been longer.

Mimi-hello! Thank you for inquiring after me. I am fine, just stuck in a migraine loop. Glad your bike is back. Congrats on about to be becoming a grandmother. :) What sort of snake is your son getting?

Lise- we hardly see you, but you are happy and busy! Glad it is only a 12 hour. Christmas is almost here. How is J?

Knot-may your travels be safe. You are so sweet to have chicken stew waiting for Trek. :) I would love to be there is February, rain or not. :D
I am sure your house survived the storm just fine.

CC-I am so confused, I though you were in NZ on holiday. I have lost track of the days again.

OTG-I am so sorry about your cold. Rest, do not exercise, your body will recover and then exercise. First and foremost rest, rebuild your immune system.

[Kitsune06]

BMo3- it's called "Mai Fun" for a reason. :D

[Bikingmomof3]

BMo3- it's called "Mai Fun" for a reason. :D


I am laughing hysterically here. :D

[Kitsune06]

Try Kitsune Udon sometime. :)

[KnottedYet]

Yeah, seems since they rode the bridge together Flossie is crushing bad on the Menace the Mondonico ;)


Well, Flossie did give Menace a string of battery-powered purple top-tube lights for Chanukah. And Menace gave Flossie 2 beautiful water bottle cages with matching Soma water bottles for Solstice.

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m21/KnottedYet/DSCN0404.jpg

I think it's love...

:D


Edit to add that Menace has those SAME Elite bottle cages, so the two bikes kinda match now... awwwwww, cute!

[KnottedYet]

Salmon of Mystery!

Who knows where this is?
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m21/KnottedYet/DSCN0348.jpg


How about this?
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m21/KnottedYet/DSCN0352.jpg

[mimitabby]

Salmon of Mystery!

Who knows where this is?
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m21/KnottedYet/DSCN0348.jpg


Can I answer??? Can I Can I? I know where it is.

[KnottedYet]

YES, Mimi! Of course!

(and for 1,000 extra points, do you know where the "salmon crossing" sign is?)

[mimitabby]

I'm afraid i don't get the 1000 extra points, but the salmon with the suitcase is at Seatac airport along with a bunch of other cool fish tiles.

I have been in that airport enough times..:rolleyes:

[maillotpois]

Salmon of Mystery!
How about this?
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m21/KnottedYet/DSCN0352.jpg

Samuel P. Taylor Park, between Olema and Woodacre. Do I get a prize??

[Trek420]

we have a winner!!

[crazycanuck]

We're off in a few hours...I promise to take lots of photos, dance in the rain and wave to DirtDiva & Road Raven for you all...

I shall check on you all in a few days.

Be safe, have fun & don't go nutty this christmas ok...PLEASE..Do NOT DRINK AND DRIVE and DO NOT let anyone you know drink and drive this holiday season...

Take care kids :)

Dirt-if you just happen to be in Auckland up until new year's text me k...I've sent you my number...

It's been a while since i've seen our friends (not TE) in Auckland, i'm excited...:D

c

[Nanci]

I took x-rays of Krusty and took him to the vet. He has a small R lung pneumonia, which will be treated by a series of 10 shots in his forelegs. He is eating nightcrawlers very well for me. I guess if the person who expressed interest in adopting him doesn't want him after all, I am pretty attached to him now.

Inez, who has been at Tame Snake Boot Camp all week, had a breakthrough last night! For the first time ever, she relaxed enough (ie didn't have to be pinned down while being held) to flow from one hand to the other to the other without freaking out. She started out kind of jerky and unsure, but then got the idea and could do it smoothly! (This is usually such a natural thing for a snake to do- you wouldn't even think one would have to learn it...) I am so proud of her.

Nanci

[AllezGirl]

I'm off to visit my parents in MO.

Happy Holidays to all! Here's to a happy, healthy 2007!

Peace out....

[Xrayted]

Hey Jennifer - just for you on your big day. Some Gingerbread Houses made by the different departments at my hospital for the holiday. Good luck at the Neurologist today hon!! Hang in there, it'll be ok. I'm praying for you and you're in my thoughts all day today. :) :) :)

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r155/cbmickey/flowers/gingerbread%202006/gingerbread8.jpghttp://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r155/cbmickey/flowers/gingerbread%202006/gingerbread7.jpg
http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r155/cbmickey/flowers/gingerbread%202006/gingerbread6.jpghttp://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r155/cbmickey/flowers/gingerbread%202006/gingerbread5.jpg
http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r155/cbmickey/flowers/gingerbread%202006/gingerbread4.jpghttp://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r155/cbmickey/flowers/gingerbread%202006/gingerbread3.jpg
http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r155/cbmickey/flowers/gingerbread%202006/gingerbread2.jpghttp://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r155/cbmickey/flowers/gingerbread%202006/gingerbread1.jpg
We always have something like this going on here. Usually at least twice a week, there is something setup outside our cafeteria like games and what-not to inform us of updates, announcements, educational things, local charity events...
Very hometown friendly place. (Edit: we voted on them and #1 got 1st, #7 got 2nd, #2 got 3rd.)

Love ya Jen!! (it'll be ok. really.)

~Mick

[KnottedYet]

we have a winner!!

TWO winners! Wow! "Salmon of Mystery" wasn't mysterious for very long!

<Knot goes off to search for more obscure salmon>

We saw a bunch of salmon in that creek at the SPT Park, one had a redd she was working on. It was very cool. And I said "howdy" again to the salmon-with-a-suitcase on my way through the airport yesterday.

[Nanci]

I got the coolest thing in the mail yesterday. A package from my June SS (that I sent something to). Filled with ten presents! I haven't opened anything yet. What a sweetheart.

We got our big $10 holiday bonus in today's check!!

Nanci

[mimitabby]

Hey Jennifer - just for you on your big day. Some Gingerbread Houses made by the different departments at my hospital for the holiday. Good luck at the Neurologist today hon!! Hang in there, it'll be ok. I'm praying for you and you're in my thoughts all day today. :) :) :)

http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r155/cbmickey/flowers/gingerbread%202006/gingerbread8.jpghttp://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r155/cbmickey/flowers/gingerbread%202006/gingerbread7.jpg
http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r155/cbmickey/flowers/gingerbread%202006/gingerbread6.jpghttp://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r155/cbmickey/flowers/gingerbread%202006/gingerbread5.jpg
http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r155/cbmickey/flowers/gingerbread%202006/gingerbread4.jpghttp://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r155/cbmickey/flowers/gingerbread%202006/gingerbread3.jpg
http://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r155/cbmickey/flowers/gingerbread%202006/gingerbread2.jpghttp://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r155/cbmickey/flowers/gingerbread%202006/gingerbread1.jpg
We always have something like this going on here. Usually at least twice a week, there is something setup outside our cafeteria like games and what-not to inform us of updates, announcements, educational things, local charity events...
Very hometown friendly place. (Edit: they are numbered because we voted on them and that's what place they came in.)

Love ya Jen!! (it'll be ok. really.)

~Mick

great pictures! I don't like the first place winner. Some of the others are a lot cooler!

[mimitabby]

I got the coolest thing in the mail yesterday. A package from my June SS (that I sent something to). Filled with ten presents! I haven't opened anything yet. What a sweetheart.

We got our big $10 holiday bonus in today's check!!

Nanci

a TEN DOLLAR bonus? how embarrassing is that?

[Xrayted]

Kit - hope this morning is treating you right. We've got some alternatives if you want to hear them. Don't wait too long though, they won't last forever... I'll email you a few links. ;)

AG - have a safe and fun trip. Give D a big hug from me. Happy Holidays!

OTG - I hope you are feeling better. At least you have time to recover a bit before the holiday. BTW, I'm still waiting on that report dear. :rolleyes:

CC - have a blast woman! Dance in the rain for me too.

(((CWR))) - welcome home!!!!

[mimitabby]

My son's gf is flying back east for Christmas so we went to their house last night and gave her her gifts.
I gave her that fractal jersey and some arm warmers. She was stunned by the jersey, she loved it. (She actually put it on and wore it for the rest of the evening) My son MAKES fractals but is much too conservative to have even imagined that she'd like to wear something that bright. Boy did I score!

Thanks to whoever it was that told us about the sale at Primal!

[maillotpois]

BMo3 do let us know the scan result asap. of course it took a WEEK to get my lung scan results back. :mad: So I hope it doesn't take you that long!! in my case all's well. :)

[Xrayted]

BMo3 isn't getting scanned today. They are finally telling her the results of the last one from a while back. If anyone had to wait that long around here for results, we'd be out of business. No one would tolerate it.

Mimi - your chocolate is on it's way! Hope you like it. If you don't, I guess I'll be steering clear of you when I visit in April. :o I sent a mixture of dark and milk chocolate. We typically pop one of each at the same time for the best flavor. Mmhmmm. Enjoy.

have a wonderful Friday everyone and be safe.

X.

[spokewench]

BMO3 - Good Luck with the scan results - we're all pulling for you!

Mimi - Isn't it fun to please someone so well with a gift!

Nanci - Now, why did I think you were going to become attached to that lovely turtle?

Just wanted to wish everyone happy holidays (whatever your religious or non-religious beliefs are). The most important part of this time of year is to spend time with the people you care about and I hope that all of you out there have a wonderful time connecting with the great people in your lives!

I'm off to Tucson tomorrow to connect with my parents and sister.

[Kitsune06]

Workity work, work.

Stuffin' the envelopes (yet) and nodding my head to Manson- Golden Age of Grotesque" I really do love the opening 'instrumental' track. And the title track. Probably my favorite CD by him.

Anyway, last day before my 4 day weekend. hammering through work and getting things all set up so the practice is ready to roll the week after Xmas. Feel like rolling up a sleeve, smiling and saying "We can do it!"

[Lise]

BMo3 isn't getting scanned today. They are finally telling her the results of the last one from a while back. If anyone had to wait that long around here for results, we'd be out of business. No one would tolerate it. Seriously.

Wishing a joyous solstice to all--remember--one more minute of light every day from now on! (Except for CC and our Aussie friends...) :D

[mimitabby]

YAY! Happy Solstice!

[Bikingmomof3]

BMo3 do let us know the scan result asap.

My appointment was this morning and I survived it. He increased everything. :(
Besides some damage from the stroke, the TIAs were not encouraging news (no surprise there). A major artery in the left side of my brain is abnormally narrow *shrug*, he thinks it was probably that way from birth. He wants me to stear clear of my traditional migraine meds *sigh* and see him in 4 weeks.

I told him I was going to begin training for a tri. Since I could not bike I was running. Got an odd laugh/choking sound and a look. Not total approval but he never said to stop. I told him I was going back on my bike. He asked me to wait for the new doseages to take affect, I agreed. I will give them a week.

I think that covers my trip to the Neurosurgeon.

[Xrayted]

(((((((BMo3))))))) I guess I better start seriously training, huh? :D

((((((Kit)))))) You know what for... stick with it. You are doing the right thing. ;)

((((((CWR)))))) Welcome back home. Pics, we want pics!!!! :D

[maillotpois]

BMo3 - Thanks for the update. I spaced that this was the "finally meet with high and mighty doctor to get results from the scans" appointment and thought it was more scans. Crazy that you had to wait so long.

Well, increasing things - maybe that's good and maybe it will help with the TIAs?? You have to just try. And it's good that he didn't say "no" on the running, tri, etc. So you have to test this out and see how it goes? Be sure when you do start up again with running that you take it easy and let your body figure out how it's going to respond to the higher dosages.

That artery thing probably doesn't have anything to do with it, huh? It's been like that forever I can't imagine it would have anything to do with it.

Well, try to take it easy and relax. I am sure it's a little anti climactic to wait for so long and then go in and they just say to increase your dosages and don't give you much more to answer the whole WHY WHY WHY part of it. When do you go back??

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

Jennifer,
thanks for updating us all. You are such a strong woman! Hopefully your positive spirit and your being fit and young will help get you through this crisis. Every day science learns new amazing facts about our brain's ability to repair itself in some way or another.

[kelownagirl]

((((BMO)))) from me too. I agree with Lisa - you are such a strong woman, physically and emotionally. Have a wonderful Christmas with your family.

And Merry Christmas to all of you on TD! I survived this last hectic week at school and tomorrow we're off to Vancouver for a few days with my sister's family. I'll be back on Boxing Day (that's the 26th to you 'mericans...) :D

[mimitabby]

Mimi - your chocolate is on it's way! Hope you like it. If you don't, I guess I'll be steering clear of you when I visit in April. :o I sent a mixture of dark and milk chocolate. We typically pop one of each at the same time for the best flavor. Mmhmmm. Enjoy.

have a wonderful Friday everyone and be safe.

X.

X, am i really the only one that wanted to try your chocolate? :o

[snapdragen]

X, am i really the only one that wanted to try your chocolate? :o

Heaven's no! I have a lovely little box of chocolates staring at me right now. And calling my name, no, screaming my name..:eek: They are delish.

Nanci - Grog linked to some bike bells in another post - I found one for you.

[snapdragen]

THANK YOU X! THANK YOU X! THANK YOU X! THANK YOU X!

Geez - I just realized I did not thank X for the cinnamon chips! They arrived in the nick 'o time, along with some lovely Wilbur buds, and a small pile of Hershey PA propaganda :D Wilbur buds are yummy, as are the Cinnamon chips.

The cookies I made with the cinnamon chips....not so much. They're OK, but I need to tweak the recipe a bit. They have great potential!

[mimitabby]

somebody just shoot me! PLEASE!! I have done the %@#$%#@ family $%#$% dance all day long and when I finally solved all the problems DH COMPLAINED.
He tossed a lit grenade in my hand and said "Gotta go, I screwed up, deal with it" and i did. I even went out and bought presents for 4 more people no, 5 more.. because of his ahem, well thought out decision. ARGH!!
the good news... My sister is staying FAR FAR away.

just shoot me!! I HATE HOLIDAYS!

(thank you for listening) now back to your regularly scheduled drift.

[mimitabby]

Jennifer, (I wrote this hours ago, i guess i never hit "Send")
Take it a step at a time. I like the fact that you can start riding in a week.
that's great!

a narrow artery in your brain huh, too bad they can't stretch it a little (like with a stent) what do i know.

Good luck on the no migraine medicine. But on the other hand more of the other stuff might do the trick.

[Trek420]

(((((Jennifer))))) I'm thinking TE gals need to get over there with a tandem so you can get your fix. Anyone?

[Bikingmomof3]

Jennifer, (I wrote this hours ago, i guess i never hit "Send")
Take it a step at a time. I like the fact that you can start riding in a week.
that's great!

I am excited. he never said "no". :)


a narrow artery in your brain huh, too bad they can't stretch it a little (like with a stent) what do i know.

Shhhh, X has the same horrific thought. I do not want my head drilled into.:eek:


Good luck on the no migraine medicine. But on the other hand more of the other stuff might do the trick.

Yes, I have been pondering what exactly I am to do to help lessen the unbelievable pain.

[Bikingmomof3]

X, am i really the only one that wanted to try your chocolate? :o

Mimi,
I had enough Wilbur Buds today for all of TD, no all of TE!

[snapdragen]

Mimi,
I had enough Wilbur Buds today for all of TD, no all of TE!

and I helped!

[Bikingmomof3]

Spokewench-Have a wonderful time and safe travels.

Kit-Safe travels for you as well. Have a great visit.

X-I want medical clearance for you first. ;)

MP-the stroke happened on the right side, so the left sided artery should not have caused the problem. I see him in 4 weeks. I can ask lots of questions I forgot to ask. Congrats on being cleared. :D

KG-another Tder traveling. Safe travels and have a wonderful visit.

Snap-cool bell! Share the cinnamon chip recipe. Mr. Z made the ones on the package-oatmeal cinnamon chip cookies and they were really good.
Oh I am SO glad I was not the only one drawn by the call of Wilbur Buds. :D

(((((Mimi)))))

Trek-Thanks. I am trying the trainer in 1 week. :D

CWR-Welcome Back!!!!

[KnottedYet]

Yes, I have been pondering what exactly I am to do to help lessen the unbelievable pain.

Do you have an acupuncturist? Can you find one? (if the answers are "no", PM me and I'll help you find a couple good ones to try out)

I'm a big believer in acupuncture, I've seen it and acustim do some amazing things for my patients. (and you can buy acustim machines for home use if your doctor gives approval. just please don't do any of the acu points on the skull, those react weirdly to acustim)

Trek - I like your idea of a TE tandem. BMo3, I do worry about your balance on a bike starting up again, and if there's a TE'r around with a tandem who can help you assess your balance/refresh your balance on a bike that'd be awesome!

[Bikingmomof3]

Do you have an acupuncturist? Can you find one? (if the answers are "no", PM me and I'll help you find a couple good ones to try out)

I'm a big believer in acupuncture, I've seen it and acustim do some amazing things for my patients. (and you can buy acustim machines for home use if your doctor gives approval. just please don't do any of the acu points on the skull, those react weirdly to acustim)

Trek - I like your idea of a TE tandem. BMo3, I do worry about your balance on a bike starting up again, and if there's a TE'r around with a tandem who can help you assess your balance/refresh your balance on a bike that'd be awesome!

I am sure there is an acupuncturist near me, but whether or not they are any good, I would not know. I have never had it done. I like accupressure. :)

I will try the trainer with DH right by me, I promise.

[mimitabby]

Jen
if you like accupressure, you'll like acupuncture too. I agree with Knott
do try alternative medicine when drugs aren't helping (or not permitted!)

IT doesn't always help, but it's worth a try. And I have an old "migrane" trick.
put your feet in wet socks. your body will try to warmyour feet and blood
will go there instead of your head. I've never tried it when i had a bad headache because the misery of cold feet is something i didn't welcome.

[DebW]

BMo3, please be cautious and careful. But I hope you are able to ride again soon.

AllezGirl, maybe I'll see you in Missouri. I'll be there the 24th-28th. If there is good weather and I can escape, maybe I'll go rent a bike and ride the Katy Trail for a few hours. I have finally wised up and decided that visits with my parents will last no more than 4 days. But this visit can't be too bad - I will be coming home with Sturmey Archer Oil!

Nanci, how great that Inez has joined the Tame Snakes Club. And how lucky Krusty is that you are caring for him.

Happy Solstice, everyone!

[Xrayted]

X-I want medical clearance for you first. ;)

Who me? Shhh. I'm just fine. :o :D

Knot/Mimi - I can vouch that BMo3 likes deep tissue massages. Kit and I tag teamed a neck/shoulder massage on her Sunday night. I've never massaged anyone even close to that tight across the shoulders. And Kit started on her before I took over. WOW!! Now if she could just wrangle one out of the family everyday... ;)

[Kitsune06]

Hey, fear my massage abilities. :) ...well, wait. no, don't fear them, that's kind of counter-productive. Embrace my massage abilities. I can vouch that those were *tight* shoulders... but I think we did ok... :)

[Xrayted]

Nice avatar there BMo3. We did do a good job of polishing that bottle off, didn't we? Three Blind Moose. That describes us exactly, afterwards. :D

DebW - AG called me tonight. She was just crossing into Ohio from WV. She will be logging in once she gets to her parents house tomorrow sometime.

[salsabike]

somebody just shoot me! PLEASE!! I have done the %@#$%#@ family $%#$% dance all day long and when I finally solved all the problems DH COMPLAINED.
He tossed a lit grenade in my hand and said "Gotta go, I screwed up, deal with it" and i did. I even went out and bought presents for 4 more people no, 5 more.. because of his ahem, well thought out decision. ARGH!!
the good news... My sister is staying FAR FAR away.

just shoot me!! I HATE HOLIDAYS!

(thank you for listening) now back to your regularly scheduled drift.

MIMI! Urg. I can't believe he complained after all that. Auggh. We definitely need another social ride here, girls. For those who don't like riding in the PNW winter, maybe just another Red Hook lunch.

X, are you really coming to visit in April? And Trek in Feb. The rest of you need to start thinking about this...

BMof3---much TD affection to you, you know. I'm glad he didn't say no, so with care, I hope you do go ahead. And in case you want to hop a plane, we do have a tandem, you know.

I'm in Albany helping Mom move to assisted living (brief delay for very mild case of pneumonia on her part; she should be going to new apt in very cool place on Tuesday). Mr. Salsa came home from a long arduous work-related boat trip to find that they had done nothing all week while we and the cats were gone and had started drywalling...today. The place was a shambles and he had to plead with the cat boarder people to keep the cats, when they're already overbooked, and go to a hotel. Where we will have to spend all of our coming "vacation" week, I expect. I am going to kill the contractor.

Nanci, I am glad you already love the new tortoise. Tortoise or turtle? Let me know if you need a donation. I'm not kidding--PM me if you do.

Did I mention that I'm going to kill the contractor?

I have yet to taste Wilbur Buds or cinnamon drops/snaps.

[Kitsune06]

Remember, friends help you move. Real friends help you move bodies.:eek:

[crazycanuck]

hey kids!!!

BM-:D If i had a tandem i'd force you to come out with me...

Weather here is very pleasant....def not 38c! IT's only 18c....apparently this is the first day of sunshine Auckland's had in a while.......:eek:

KIt-that thought passed my mind the other day when my bike route took me past a fresh crime scene and later foundout what happened!!!
Have you seen the film " shallow grave"???

Take care kids

c

[KnottedYet]

Just did some desperation xmas shopping. I am soooooooo heartily SICK of the commercial-consumeristic-Christmas thing. Next year I think I'll boycott xmas. I'll celebrate New Year instead. I want Christmas to feel more like Thanksgiving. I'll give presents on New Year's, presents to start the new year with. Just do family-and-friends stuff at xmas. And tree and decorations. No Christmas presents.

Knot-Grumpy-Scrooge

PS: Last year I hand-made a lot of the presents I gave out. This year I tried to buy things. Bleh. Did I mention how much I dislike what has happened to Christmas?

[salsabike]

We sent out a pathetic little email message to family and friends about two weeks ago, saying that given what's happening with my mother, and work trips, and the house, and all, that we just would not be able to manage Christmas present activities this year, so please save whatever you all may have gotten for us until next year, and we love you, etc. I really wanted to donate to wildly liberal charities in everyone's name and have little cards sent to them, but just barely restrained myself.

Kit, that's an excellent thought and I will keep it in the forefront of my mind.

Guys? Have a good whatever holiday.

[DirtDiva]

Shhhh, X has the same horrific thought. I do not want my head drilled into.:eek:
They wouldn't actually have to do any drilling, just feed a catheter up a vein from a handier location...



Weather here is very pleasant....def not 38c! IT's only 18c....apparently this is the first day of sunshine Auckland's had in a while.......:eek:
Let's just not talk about the weather in Chch of late! :eek: I guess it's doing something to prepare me for my return to dreary London... :rolleyes: I have a job lined up until the end of July, by the way. If it works out well for all involved, it could well go on beyond that if I want to stay. :)

[Nanci]

(I need to go make some more Santa's White Christmas coffee!)

BMO3- I hate it that you had to wait so long for results that those who didn't know you were waiting thought it was a whole new scan...That just isn't right. I like my department because the radiologist tells the patient/parents the results immediately, and if he doesn't, I tell him to! They also tell people what was seen in other current radiology exams like ultrasounds, CTs, etc- otherwise I bet the pt would never even know! I got in _so_ much trouble once for looking up my own results for my ultrasound of my heart- but crap- they need to tell people right away. It isn't fair to make them wait. For what. When I get a mammo, I insist that the radiologist tell me the results that second. Of course it helps that I work with them.

But good news that you might be on your bike soon! Maybe DH needs to get a tandem!

Snap- love the bell. It would be perfect. I always wanted a bell!

Salsa, ((((SALSA)))) thank you, but it's not that bad yet. I have $90 left out of my paycheck, after paying Krusty's bill, and he doesn't have to go again. I'm a _little_ worried about the next round of bills next check, but if I make it through that, I think it will be ok. He's a turtle. Florida Box Turtle. Very close relative of Fagalo, Eastern Box Turtle. No relation at all to Koko and Buttercup, Desert Tortoises, who were close relatives of the departed Cracker Chicken, Gopher Tortoise who moved away on his own.

I sponsored a pigeon once, though- a bunch of people on the pigeon rescue list did. She'd been poisoned, on purpose, by a pigeon removal company. How'd you like to be a pigeon rehabber (small scale) and have your building's owners hire a company to kill all the birds in the neighborhood? Treatment was horribly expensive, and she recovered, but died later. Victoria. The friend who needed help was a GYN doc who immigrated here, but couldn't get licensed, (now in nursing school) who eventually got hired by the vet who saw all her pigeon rescues- one of the foremost avian vets in the US, in Miami.)

I'm not doing Christmas presents, either. Luckily, BF already got his present in November- the health club membership payroll deducted from my check. I also bought him a DVD. He's going to be home (here) for Christmas again this year. How nice. (He'd rather be up north with his family, but can't get out of work.) I haven't decorated at all. I wouldn't mind a couple poinsettias. I don't know about a tree- they are so much work, and the snakes live where I put th etree last year. Sometimes I wish I had a real house with windowsills and stuff. ROOM and stuff. STORAGE and stuff.

I figured out my tax return- it's going to be ok. I have to put brakes in my truck, and there is some strange wobbling going on in the front end, and I need to make a downpayment on another shed so the lawn mower can stop living in a tent, having been displaced by the motorcycle. The tent looks like it's been abandoned on Everest or something- it's pathetic.

But I've told all friends that I can't afford presents- hopefully BF will take care of that- I know he bought Swiss Colony stuff. MMMm. I am into the Red Velvet Petit Fours...I tell people "Your present is a share in Krusty's good health."

Oh, BMO3- noticed the avatar instantly. Was it good? I see it all the time. And Four Emus, which I would buy just for the label. Whoever invented the animal label marketing scheme had a direct hit with me. I love the Rex Goliath 40 Pound Rooster label. And the pinot noir is pretty good, too.

Deb- I had Inez out last night to see if she'd remember. I always feel badly when I get her out. She prefers to sleep in this thing that kind of looks like a mini-Ayers Rock (Uluru!) but inside it, she somehow gets up on a little shelf thing, so when I pick it up, she falls off the shelf onto her aspen bedding, disgruntled right from the start. So I had her out, of course she musked me, but after only a few minutes I tried to get her to do the hand-to-hand thing. It was like, she's hanging down, I have her gently pinched to keep her speed under control, she's going down toward my other hand, but first she has to whip back and forth, then she gives up and goes, then I hold out the other hand under, and she has to whip around osme more and try to go down the back, not my palm, and this goes on for several minutes, so she's _sort of_ got the hang of it, but she still has to flail in between each step. Finally after 30 minutes she was back to going smoothly again. She feeds tonight, so she has a break for 48 hours from handling.

Oh God, DD was on the phone last night. Prescious Roy is stabilized in his collar and doing ok. She talked forever, and eventually we were talking about food, and I said "We've been eating catfood all week for dinner" and she burst out screaming "MOM!!!!!!!!!!" and laughing and then I started laughing, because I had actually said "cashews" but she heard "catfood." She'd pictured us with a 50# bag, in the living room, munching handfuls...Which is pretty much what we're doing with the cashews- it's so out of control...

MP- when do you get back on teh bike? (If you already have, and I missed it, I apologize...)

Ok, back to snake land.

NAnci

[Nanci]

PS- I hate it when you can't do stuff by Internet, when you have to send in an actual check, like for an RUSA membership...Or the local cycling club. Get with the times!!

Nanci

PSS, am I the only person in the world who doesn't think Dave Chapelle is hilarious??

[Kitsune06]

ok going to say right now that the stent idea does not 'feel' like a good idea. I'd say 'yeah! Sure! Whatever!' if this was a leg vein or something similar, but this is an artery in the skull. Even if CC is correct in accessing it, the risk of creating an anyurism would be enough (and the difficulty of treating an anyurism up there, the risk of collateral damage- swelling of the brain, etc) that I'm iffy on the whole idea. This is my sister we're all theoretically poking! And TRUST me she needs all the brain-power she can get! ;)

*runs and hides!*

...oh, and BMo3- X and I were discussing your brain last night to come up with the above conclusion...

oh, and Nanci- You may well be. Dave Chapelle is HILARIOUS! My kingdom for Comedy Central again....

[mimitabby]

Yeah, Nanci
you can really get the sympathy going telling your kids you are eating catfood for supper. That's hilarious. Read with interest your snake training description.
my son and GF found a python at a PETCO and despite all that was said, they are thinking of buying it. When gf was in college, she worked in a science museum sort of place and got to know all the reptiles, so she is an expert and knws this python is a nice little guy (her words) in their defense, they did go to the website you gave us and spent a lot of time there.

I hate christmas too. The part ihate the most is you can't see ANYONE around xmas time without each party feeling obligated to give a gift.

Salsa, DH was not in such a good place. I don't think he was thinking it through when he complained. I appreciate you guys letting me let of steam. We're on the same page again (I think)

[KnottedYet]

coffee is my friend.

I have to go xmas shopping again this morning. The gardening store. Much more serenity than the maul. So I will be a nicer, happier person when I'm done.

Need to get something for my SIL. I'm thinking a forcing-bulb kit or a hummingbird feeder. (she could always regift the hummingbird feeder if she doesn't want to put it in her garden/koi pond area)

Need to get something for my mom, who is an avid gardener and owns pretty much everything she *needs* so I gotta find something fun she might *want*.

I like the garden store.

Tomorrow is the huge annual Christmas Eve party my mom's friends have been having for the last 30 or 40 years. They pack their house with so many people and so much food that you can hardly move. Someone always plays the piano, we sing "Oh Christmas Tree" and the host lights real candles on the tree. The host is an amazing artist, and he bakes gingerbread cookies and decorates each one with plain piped icing. As each guest leaves they get a cookie to hang on their tree. They are very cool: he uses regular cookie cutters, but draws something else on the cookie. I had a wreath cookie one year that he decorated as a leaping salmon. The cookie I had from last year was a snowman that he decorated as a naked dancing woman.

My mom manages to save her cookies for years, mine fall prey to the dog or tumble from the tree and shatter.

Last year's cookie:
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m21/KnottedYet/DSCN0405.jpg

[kelownagirl]

Morning TD. I got off the gift exchange merry-go-round about 8 years ago and haven't looked back. I used lack of money for an excuse but the stress of finding gifts for people was the bigger reason. Now I only buy for my son who's 9, I give my daughters cash because they are in their 20's and need it (I sometimes buy for thee if there's something they really want), and I give my mom a homemade GC for dinner out once a month with DH and I. This year, I'm also going to buy her flowers at least 4 times during the year for no reason. I do not exchange with my siblings, friends, or any other extended family members. I give my 2 nephews a video or a game or something. Kids - that's all. It's a good thing.

It is snowing this morning. Lovely. Except that I have to get out on the highway thru the mountains in an hour or so. The highwaycams look ok. Hope there are still ok later.

http://www.th.gov.bc.ca/bchighwaycam/index.aspx?hideFramework=False&cam=1

Hugs to all of you who find Xmas stressful/depressing. That sucks. I will be spending it with my own somewhat disfunctional family. I will try to look for the good things if I can, and ignore the weird stuff. Merry Christmas. :)

[Nanci]

I would like either a bulb forcing kit _or_ a hummingbird feeder. Both are nice! For a minute I thought you meant _son_ in law, and I'm like, huh??? But then I figured it out.

I love the garden store, too. Some of my best jobs have been at garden stores. My cousin works at a big conservatory.

Nanci

[Nanci]

KG, it's 66 and sunny here, with a predicted high of 78F. I hope to do some outdoor photography of my kids today.

Here's something I posted on the snake forum- I am not sure if it will work here, but I will try: (It's not snakes)

http://i123.photobucket.com/albums/o307/nlevake/th_GreenSwamp032.jpg (http://s123.photobucket.com/albums/o307/nlevake/?action=view&current=GreenSwamp032.flv)

[Nanci]

Yay, it worked! Those are baby alligators I saw on a bike ride in the Green Swamp last summer.

Nanci

[mimitabby]

looks like chocolate cake with the white icing scraped off. I don't see any reptiles

[mimitabby]

Salsa, i am sorry to hear about your contractor, the guys working on the house across the street are amazing. They just showed up (Saturday 8am) they
really took great pains to protect their work during the storms..
I am experiencing this great vaccillation between jealousy and relief (that it's not my house, not my mortgage) as I watch their 2nd floor addition go up with its windows that view mountains and lake washington.

I hope yours looks as cool as theirs does.

[bikerz]

Just did some desperation xmas shopping. I am soooooooo heartily SICK of the commercial-consumeristic-Christmas thing. Next year I think I'll boycott xmas. I'll celebrate New Year instead. I want Christmas to feel more like Thanksgiving. I'll give presents on New Year's, presents to start the new year with. Just do family-and-friends stuff at xmas. And tree and decorations. No Christmas presents.

Knot-Grumpy-Scrooge

PS: Last year I hand-made a lot of the presents I gave out. This year I tried to buy things. Bleh. Did I mention how much I dislike what has happened to Christmas?


We sent out a pathetic little email message to family and friends about two weeks ago, saying that given what's happening with my mother, and work trips, and the house, and all, that we just would not be able to manage Christmas present activities this year, so please save whatever you all may have gotten for us until next year, and we love you, etc. I really wanted to donate to wildly liberal charities in everyone's name and have little cards sent to them, but just barely restrained myself.

I can really relate - I had a terrible time getting into the holiday spirit this year, due to lost wallets and overwork, etc. but I finally "got the spirit" Thursday when I did what I have wanted to do for many years instead of the holiday crazy shopping thing (because I feel like we all just have so much "stuff".) So this year I donated to Heifer International in the names of all my family and friends - I bought water buffalos, goats, llamas, bunnies, chicks - it was great! Eight families will get some livestick to help them and their communites become more self-sufficient, and feedback from my friends and family members has been great! (Of course, I do get gifts for the little kids in my life!) I really recommend it! The whole process put me in a great mood, that has stuck with me ever since.

[KnottedYet]

exDPITA sent a lovey-dovey xmas package, which I only just now had the guts to finally open.

I'm gonna cry or maybe I'll puke. I don't understand this. The last time we had any communication is was vicious and evil beyond belief (but I stayed calm).

What do I do? Do I send a thank you? A christmas card? Ignore it?

OOOOOOOOOh, I *HATE* CHRISTMAS!!!!!

[mimitabby]

Knot, ignore her and enjoy the gift. She's way too hot and cold. dangerous. Like
a spider pretending to be a flower!

if it makes you feel better, give the gift away.

[snapdragen]

looks like chocolate cake with the white icing scraped off. I don't see any reptiles

Click on the picture mimi - it's a video!

Baby 'gators are cute!

[mimitabby]

Yay, it worked! Those are baby alligators I saw on a bike ride in the Green Swamp last summer.

Nanci

IS THAT YOUR VOICE? Wow, how cool! thanks for someone tellng me it was a movie, i never would have noticed.

[maillotpois]

Cool gators!!!

Nanci I totally agree with your philospohy of telling the patient right away about scan results. Crazy how long they make you wait!!! And I will probably ride a little next week.

Nice cookie girl Knot. Funny.


Hang in there, you guys, it's almost over. Christmas that is. I made the mistake of trying to shop yesterday. Oy! Today we go to the Nutcracker and a nice brunch beforehand, so that should help my holiday spirits.

Hey BMo3 - Tandem!! Yeah that's a great idea!! We have one. I am sure you could ride it with me captaining. Find a tri out here and I'll help you do the bike portion. Seriously!!

[snapdragen]

Dang, we've got a new spammer this morning. They keep interrupting my reading of TD!

bikerz - I do a similar thing with some family members - donations to Second Harvest in their names. I think next year I will expand it to all family members. Heifer International sounds interesting, I must check it out.

knott - send it back!

The only thing I'm stressing about now is my bright idea to cook Prime Rib and a turkey breast for dinner tomorrow night. One oven, two hunks 'o meat. I may cook the turkey tonight to "not quite done", then finish it in the microwave tomorrow.

My best friend is coming up today, not sure what we're going to do. Maybe a movie, maybe go to one of the local shopping centers and laugh at the last minute shoppers. Then dinner at Jalisco's - a little dive mexican place. We grew up eating there, it's a great childhood memory.

[maillotpois]

Salsa - hang in there. You sound like you need a hug. So there it is, you just got one.

[KnottedYet]

Snap - thanks for the "click on the picture" help. I didn't know it was a video either. I just figured I was lookin' at baby gators and not seeing them...:rolleyes:

[Nanci]

Knot, maybe in the Christmas spirit she's asking for forgiveness. I am the grudge world champion, but it isn't really a healthy or good-feeling thing to do. I'd send a Christmas card with a simple message like "Thank you for the thoughtful gift, I hope things are going as well in your life as they are in mine right now." It's better to let hurt and resentment go than hang on to it. Let it go- don't give her that power.

Nanci

[Bikingmomof3]

I truly have the most laid back Christmas ever. I treasure this time of year. I buy gifts for choice friends (sometimes the gifts do not get there until February, we are a laid back group). We stopped trying to feign familial happiness and do not buy extended family members gifts. Each year it is the five of us and we have such a stress free, lovely holiday.

I wish all of you peace and happiness.

Nanci- Did I say congrats for Inez completing snake boot camp? I meant to. How is Krusty? Okay, what is White Christmas Coffee? Here there are signs posted everywhere, the techs are not legally allowed to tell the patient anything. :( Ah 3 Blind Moose was a lovely Chardonnay. DH bought it because he liked the bottle and name. It suited kit, X, and I just fine. :) I cannot throw the bottle out, I love the lable. I am a moose fan as it is. It sounds like you had a nice talk with your daughter. Too funny- she thought you were eating cat food. :D The whole family enjoyed the baby gators. Thanks for sharing the clip. :)

Mimi-I shall give your migraine remedy a try. Thank you for the tip. :) We avoid Christmas parties and extended family. My family of 5 is just right and my friends who have become my family. I have not had a stress filled holiday in 13 years. :)

Deb-I will be careful. I love life too much not to be. I hope you get to meet up with AG.

Salsa-enjoy the time with your mom and her new home. There is plenty of time to deal with the contractor. ;)

CC-enjoy your trip! :)

DirtDiva-I like to think I can handle most medical procedures...except in my brain. :eek:

Kit and X-I am so glad you two were discussing my brain. :rolleyes: I too would prefer they leave the artery alone.

Knot-I think the gardening gifts sound wonderful! I would like either of them! As for the unexpected gift, I agree with Snap, send it back.

Bikerz-good idea on helping others.

Snap- Have a great time visiting with your friend.

KG-send snow!

[Nanci]

D. H. Lawrence wrote that every year you pass an anniversary unaware: the anniversary of your own death. I've seen it so many times before, as adventurers circle and circle the spot marked X where they meet their own death, taunting it, teasing it, playing with the big cat. Never fool yourself into thinking you can tame it.

Sure, we do it in our ordinary lives, too- you can get killed on your lunch break- but we do that blindly. In our adventures, we engage fate deliberately. We choose a relentless and indefatigable opponent, while others pretend to be safe. We feel that our experiences are much more real, while seeing the masses as deluded in their complacency. When well-trained people are fetched off by fate during a well-planned and thoughtful expedition, there is no more ignominy in it than when an ordinary Joe gets hit by a bus. No one says "He shouldn't have been walking there." But a climber named Karl Iwen, unfamiliar with Three Fingered Jack, a volcanic mountain in Oregon, which he was descending, left his companions, left the trail, left his ice ax strapped to his pack, and ventured out onto the snow, where he treated his companions to a spectacular show as he slid into the couloir and did a 600-foot Peter Pan. Karl did not die doing what he loved. He died of poor impulse control, or what I call "the rapture of the shallow."

The perfect adventure shouldn't be that much more hazardous in a real sense than ordinary life, for that invisible rope that holds us here can always break. We can live a life or bored caution and die of cancer. Better to take the adventure, minimize the risks, get the information, and then go forward in the knowledge that we've done everything we can.

No, some people would rather not see it, but the bull is there for all of us. Some of us choose to pass the cape in front of its horns. To live life is to risk it. And when you feel the rush of air and catch the stink of hot breath in your face, you enter the secret order of those who have seen their own death close up. It makes us live that much more intensely. So intense is it for some that it seals their fate; once they've tasted it, they just can't stop. And in their cases, perhaps we have to accept that the light that burns brightest burns half as long.

But I believe that if you do it right, you can have it all. I adhere to what my daughter Amelia calls the Gutter Theory of Life. It goes like this: You don't want to be lying in the gutter, having been run down by a bus, the last bit of your life ebbing away, and be thinking, "I should have taken that rafting trip..." or, "I should have learned to surf..." or, "I should have flown upside down- with smoke!"

Pete Conrad was the third man to walk on the moon. He died in a motorcycle accident on an ordinary day. It took him a while to die as he went to the hospital. I wonder what he was thinking. I hope it was: I did it all.

Laurence Gonzalez, from Deep Survival

[Xrayted]

Knot - There is nothing to understand with someone like that. Trying to rationalize it will make it worse on you. You are so much better off using that time and energy on someone else who deserves it more. Someone who doesn't play mind games and appreciates you for the incredible woman you are. I say donate it to someone who can use it and send her a thank you note letting her know that her donation was very much appreciated. Good luck...:)

Salsa - so sorry that it's still going like that with your house. How's about I come out there and kill the contractor and you can take a break? :D

Nanci - cool, very cool.

BMo3 - Good way to spend the holidays, dear.

Kit - have a safe drive and a happy holiday hon!!

CWR - so, where are those pics???? :D

Off to finish up some stuff. Have a happy holiday everyone!!

cindy

[Nanci]

Santas White Christmas®
The star of Barnies Coffee lineup. Our #1 selling flavored coffee combines Barnies Blend coffee with the flavors of coconut, nuts, sweet caramel and vanilla.

Yum!

[Bikingmomof3]

Santas White Christmas®
The star of Barnies Coffee lineup. Our #1 selling flavored coffee combines Barnies Blend coffee with the flavors of coconut, nuts, sweet caramel and vanilla.

Yum!

Sounds delicious. I do not know if I have a Barnies near me...must go check.

[Nanci]

I drink it year round. It's about the only coffee I buy any more.

Krusty is good. Today he climbed up o top of his box.

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

So this year I donated to Heifer International in the names of all my family and friends - I bought water buffalos, goats, llamas, bunnies, chicks - it was great! Eight families will get some livestick to help them and their communites become more self-sufficient...The whole process put me in a great mood, that has stuck with me ever since.

Yeah, that's a good feeling. Twice a year i make a donation of as much as I can to one charity- it's a local woman who has been rescuing homeless, sick, injured, and abused cats in our area for years, spaying/neutering them, finding homes for them, getting them medical attention. I've adopted 2 cats from her, and I've been to her place and seen the wonderful work she does- day in and day out tirelessly. She's amazing.

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

knott - send it back!

If you send it back it will just make an unpleasant relationship even more miserable and will provoke more nastiness.
Just send her a polite but brief thank you note and give the gift to somebody else.

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

Knot, maybe in the Christmas spirit she's asking for forgiveness. I am the grudge world champion, but it isn't really a healthy or good-feeling thing to do. I'd send a Christmas card with a simple message like "Thank you for the thoughtful gift, I hope things are going as well in your life as they are in mine right now." It's better to let hurt and resentment go than hang on to it. Let it go- don't give her that power.

Nanci

That's the perfect way to handle it.

[Kitsune06]

X- How could I not? Xmas with the Outlaws consists of hanging out and quiet with them and Escher, some guests, dinner out, sleeping in late, coffee, chatting, and on Xmas eve, a nice dinner at the chinese buffet :) I love my pagan parents. :D

BMo3- Little sisters are supposed to be kind to the brain damaged. ;) Yes, you're invited to the theoretical party you're insisting is happening. would you have it any other way? ;)

CWR- Well crap! You get home, just in time for me to be leaving! No worries, I'll √ email and all that. Take care. Any problems- I mean ANYTHING, and you refer yourself to my advice to Snap. No questions. If you're careful, you can get away with anything once.

[mimitabby]

I'm a grandmother. Schraeder the ball python ...
:cool:

[KnottedYet]

these are kind of fun. Just registered one that I'm using to wrap a present for my mom.

www.wrapsacks.com

[Nanci]

Congratulations! BPs are pretty cool, and stay a manageable size. My friends have one named Katrina, because they got her during Hurricane Katrina. Katrina lives in a plastic tub, not a decorated viv. Wife thinks Katrina deserves a better home. Husband likes simplicity- and this is how most people with more than a few snakes keep them. One night, wife, _without_ hearing aids, hears a crash. Protector husband does not wake up. Wife rushes out to the living room to investigate. Katrina has pushed the top off her bin and gone exploring, ending up on a bookshelf, where she was knocking things off. At least when a big snake escapes, they are easy to find! Another time she escaped, and they found her between the mattress and box spring of their bed!!

I'd love to see a picture of him...

Nanci

[salsabike]

exDPITA sent a lovey-dovey xmas package, which I only just now had the guts to finally open.

I'm gonna cry or maybe I'll puke. I don't understand this. The last time we had any communication is was vicious and evil beyond belief (but I stayed calm).

What do I do? Do I send a thank you? A christmas card? Ignore it?

OOOOOOOOOh, I *HATE* CHRISTMAS!!!!!

I personally would not respond. Ex-BF did something just like this. I think it's meant to be manipulative and get a reaction. Best to graciously ignore the whole thing, I think, rather than start up contact again. But you give it a few days and your little inner voice will tell you what will work best for you.

Thanks for the sympathy, you guys. It helps! More later.

[Nanci]

Knot, cool! It's like http://www.wheresgeorge.com/ only different!

Nanci

[margo49]

Being a New Zealander by birth, I am used to being first with Christmas but this year we out-did ourselves by celebrating on the evening of the 23rd!
Really simple, home-y and nice - the benefit of living in a non-Christian country we don't have to suffer the horrendous consumer-fest, family tensions,etc that have been described here. We have all the Jewish holidays for that!! Shopping as the central Family Value and shared activity !!

(Reason: Our elder son is going into the Israel Defence Forces Basic training on the 24th at 5 am )

Btw, CWR -
I used the Japanese fishing ball as part of our Christmas "domestic altar"; reflecting the candle flame and the flickering Christmas Lights it was just so special

[maillotpois]

fleur de sel bloody mary w/housemade jalapeno infused vodka, smokey chipotle and house made fleur de sel celery salt.

yum! I have only had 2 - should be enough to get me through the nutcracker.

[Bikingmomof3]

I drink it year round. It's about the only coffee I buy any more.

Krusty is good. Today he climbed up o top of his box.


Krusty is very handsome. Are you going to keep him?

[Bikingmomof3]

I'm a grandmother. Schraeder the ball python ...
:cool:


Congratulations Mimi. :D

[Bikingmomof3]

these are kind of fun. Just registered one that I'm using to wrap a present for my mom.

www.wrapsacks.com


I like those and there are so many cool fabric choices. :)

[Nanci]

I will keep Krusty if I can't get him adopted out. Just means I have to build another pen in the spring, that's all.

NAnci

[mimitabby]

these are kind of fun. Just registered one that I'm using to wrap a present for my mom.

www.wrapsacks.com

ha. that's cute knot.
I have a couple dollars out there that i have followed..


Nanci, all,
Don't worry, I already told DS that we need pictures. He understands.
they named it schrader because they were thinking of buying a california toad snake?
i can't remember what kind; and they were so shiny black they looked like INNERTUBES.
Schraeder, get it? They decided against that type of snake, but DGF liked the name.
DS wanted to call it "Fluffy" but she wouldn't let him.

[mimitabby]

I personally would not respond. Ex-BF did something just like this. I think it's meant to be manipulative and get a reaction. Best to graciously ignore the whole thing, I think, rather than start up contact again. But you give it a few days and your little inner voice will tell you what will work best for you.

Thanks for the sympathy, you guys. It helps! More later.

I agree with you completely, Salsa, NO ATTENTION at all. Leave her wondering if you even GOT the package.

[Nanci]

Yeah, except that gives her a reason to contact her "Hey, I sent you a package, was wondering if you got it since I didn't hear from you..."

I have no idea what a California Toad Snake is, but it might have been a Mexican Black Kingsnake. That fits the description perfectly.

http://www.kingsnake.com/king/getula/nigritus.html

Definitely on my to-get list someday...

Nanci

[mimitabby]

Yeah, except that gives her a reason to contact her "Hey, I sent you a package, was wondering if you got it since I didn't hear from you..."

I have no idea what a California Toad Snake is, but it might have been a Mexican Black Kingsnake. That fits the description perfectly.

http://www.kingsnake.com/king/getula/nigritus.html

Definitely on my to-get list someday...

Nanci

sorry, it was just in passing. it was probably a king snake!

[AllezGirl]

Yep folks...it's festivus for the rest of us!

After an uneventful 17 hour drive I'm here safe and sound in MO. My parents still have dial-up :eek: (DSL isn't even an option), so I'm trying my best to keep up, but it takes FOREVER! On the other hand, it's kind of nice to be away from cell phones, boys (the dating sceen still sucks), work and to be pampered by my Mom! The most important thing is that I've already been by the LBS (the owner remembered my name, not bad since it's been 18 mos) and have my ride for tomorrow all lined up!

DEB: Where in MO are you? Have bike...will travel!

BMo3: I'll be back your way next weekend...I do hope we can meet up. Give me a call, but be patient if I don't return the call right away...I literally have to walk 4 miles to the top of a hill to check my messages!

It's really that remote here, but it's beautiful too. Right on the water, and next to a beautiful state park. I'll have to have X show me how to post pics.

MP: those bloody mary's sound awesome!

BikerZ: I do Heifer donations too! I love that organization and the honor cards are beautiful.

[Trek420]

One of the best uses I've ever seen for the internet, micro loans, you're repayed, you can keep it going...

http://kiva.org/app.php?page=businesses&action=about&id=1712

[mimitabby]

RAT snake!! the black snakes are rat snakes. But Shraeder is a ball python.
Funny name for a snake.
Well, tonight, DS (the younger) entertained both of his grandmothers by explaining what snakes eat and how to feed them (Kind of like Nanci with us)

[bikerz]

Thanks Trek - I'd heard about those microlenders on the radio several months ago but had forgotten about it - what a great idea! I love Heifer because you can really see how the animals change people's lives, and it is sucha concrete thing. But the microlending seems even more direct, I've going to read up on it some more - thanks for the link...

On another note, any of you other Bay Area TD-ers feel those 2 quakes we has last night and this morning? Both were about 3.5 and centered within a couple miles of my house :eek:

[jobob]

nope, can't say I did.

[bikerz]

I guess the little ones are good, right? Letting off the stress on the fault...

[jobob]

Yeah, that approach works well for me too. :D

[jobob]

Looks like Snap is at it again, working undercover to protect us all from the ravages of spam!

[snapdragen]

I'm invisible - spammers can't see me comin'.

Went to a movie and dinner with my friend and her daughter. We saw Night at the Museum. Kinda cute, slow at the beginning but it picked up. One mini argument - we passed some guys on a corner staging a mini anti war/anti Bush protest. She didn't understand how anyone could do that. "GWB was elected to office and we have to support our elected leader" :rolleyes: "That's what living in a democracy means" :confused: I told her that's not what it means to me, and the fun ensued. :D

So here it's almost 8:30 PST and I should probably at least get the stuffing for tomorrow's dinner assembled. I may be cooking at 11:00 pm tonight.

I think I found Tim Tams at Cost Plus! The package looks the same as the Tim Tam package, except it says Arnott's Original. Maybe they make a special package for Cost Plus?

[Trek420]

Save us snap!! Or I'll have to.....for sale I-pod Nano with Play Station II

[salsabike]

Ah, yet another late-night snicker surprised out of me by Trek420. Thank you.

[crazycanuck]

Auckland weather lived up to it's name today...It was rain, sun, rain, sun, rain, wind and then dry. Traffic wasn't too bad as they finally finished part of the motorway construction...

Yes, i took photos of the drive from Auckland-Rotorua...as the passenger....(X....)

Rotorua is dry but a tad bit colder than perth..

Ian put our bikes together & my tube enlarged to a frightening size then popped..not only that but it stretched my tire...I sure hope there's a bike shop open on the 26th!!!

take care
c

[Kitsune06]

Solstice Vacation is going well. I'm blissed. I'm loving it. Life is beautiful and good.
Alright, folks, crisis averted. :rolleyes: :D

[Lise]

Party when we hit 1,000? :D

I'm at the hospital, the pregnant women were blessedly quiet overnight, so I got some sleep. Getting together at mom's with brother and his new wife who have some conflict going on over how to spend time with "my family/your family" at Christmas...and sister w/her brood, who are all Jewish, so they just show up and have no Christmas stress (they just finished their Hanukah stress :p ), ...and J. and me. I am sooooo glad I didn't work my butt off over night! Thank you pregnant ladies! :D

Knot, your exPITA reminds me of mine, yet again. 2 months after she literally chased me out of our home, she made me a cake on my birthday and wanted me to come pick it up. When I didn't, she was furious. Sigh. The bad old days. I would encourage you to get rid of whatever she sent you; just having it around will make you feel bad over and over. Don't engage with her, uncomfortable as it may be. This WILL pass. This is the last Christmas you'll ever have to deal with her in any way (as long as you make it so). Did you see Lord of the Rings? It makes me think of when Gandalf got snagged by the Baelroch's whip in the mines of Moria. He thought he was safe, but one last flick got him. This is just a last flick from her. She has no actual power in your life. Focus on your joy and gratitude, and it will grow! Have a Merry Christmas, girl! You're free! ((((Knot))))

BMo3, I loooove the idea of you doing a tri on a tandem.

Loving best wishes to all at TD...peace, and health, and joyful rides!

Lise

[mimitabby]

Party when we hit 1,000? :D

I'm at the hospital, the pregnant women were blessedly quiet overnight, so I got some sleep. Getting together at mom's with brother and his new wife who have some conflict going on over how to spend time with "my family/your family" at Christmas...and sister w/her brood, who are all Jewish, so they just show up and have no Christmas stress (they just finished their Hanukah stress :p ), ...and J. and me. I am sooooo glad I didn't work my butt off over night! Thank you pregnant ladies! :D
Lise

Lise, although I couldn't do your hours, I wish I had a job where i could sleep when i wasn't busy! That sounds SO NICE. Rotorua sounds like a micro organism..


CC
Auckland; rain, is that a good thing? I understood it was too dry, now it's not?

bikerz, trek we also give to a microlender I forget their name, they give 100 dollar loans to women in 3rd world countries. it's kind of cool. I always feel odd about giving money to a bank though; it's a strange deal.

all THE DAYS ARE GETTING LONGER on the top half of the world, sorry aussies, what goes around comes around!
Hope all is well everywhere. DH wants to buy me a new bike for the new year. I'm not sure i"m done with my Bianchi! But I will go voluntarily to the LBS to check it out.. next year.

[Lise]

Lise, although I couldn't do your hours, I wish I had a job where i could sleep when i wasn't busy! That sounds SO NICE.Yeah, mimi, it's the wacky unpredictability of it all that gets to you. Last Sun-Mon I worked 26 hr straight through with one 90 min nap. I was grateful for the nap. It's the advantage of working nights; I do get to sleep when it's quiet.

A new bike and a Bianchi? Wow! Somebody looooves you! Maybe making up for his goof the other day? :D

Salsa--are you, DH, and cats out of hotel living yet? I swear, one more screw up, and I'll come help you kill the contractors! We all will...and Kit can hide the bodies. I know she's up to the task...:eek: :p

[Xrayted]

Salsa--are you, DH, and cats out of hotel living yet? I swear, one more screw up, and I'll come help you kill the contractors! We all will...and Kit can hide the bodies. I know she's up to the task...:eek: :p

Ooooh, I have a feeling this is going to get very interesting. I better go make some popcorn... anyone want to share a bowl while Kit responds?? :cool: I just made fresh chocolate chip cookies too. :D

[Bikingmomof3]

I am more than willing to give Kit assistance. ;)

[Kitsune06]

Lise- In all reality, you do *not* want to move bodies, generally. Too much risk of leaving evidence (boot prints, DNA, witnesses, etc). The best way to eliminate someone is first to have absolutely no connection to them. Say if I were to fly/drive out (driving is best, no tickets to substantiate where I'd been) with a shotgun or the like, something I'd purchased from one of the big gun shows up here where serial numbers are not registered. What I'd have to do then is purchase a barrel elsewhere and install it, keeping the original somewhere nice and safe. I go out, perform the hit quickly, cleanly, hopefully no witnesses, and leave. Don't touch a thing. Dispose of the clothes worn (burn them or keep them until the next step) Take a large blunt metal tool and break the barrel used into multiple pieces. Drive around town, a decent distance, and pitch a little here, a little there. You can dispose of the clothes this way, too.

Reattach original barrel after having opened the action and gently filed just a hair on the firing pin. If police ask to see your weapon, you can now hand it over and it will have completely different ballistics from what was found. Do not get 'helpful' with the police. It's one of 'those' things that will get you caught.

I think that about sums it up. Remember also that you can really only do this once. Any more and you just increase your odds of getting caught.

Merry Christmas Eve! :D

[Trek420]

ah, so you can't do that again? shucks ;)

[Xrayted]

I'm sitting here watching it all and yet I see nothing. NOTHING. :D

[Bikingmomof3]

Anyone else frightened by how much thought she has put into this? ;)

I still love you. :D

Merry christmas Eve!

[maillotpois]

Kit - the level of detail in your description is a mite disturbing... :cool:

[Lise]

Remember also that you can really only do this once. Any more and you just increase your odds of getting caught.

Merry Christmas Eve! :D

Ratz. Then I've already used up my one shot (as it were). Anybody else up for eliminating Salsa's contractors? Hmmmm? Jennifer seems sort of innocent, maybe she could do it! :p

[Bikingmomof3]

I *could* use the brain damaged defense. ;)

[Kitsune06]

You never know when this stuff comes in handy- really! But alas, Trek, you're right on. Er... aside from that 'again' part. What're you talking about? Are you implying something?! I don't know anything about that! It was CWR in the PI with a Crowbar!... Are we still playing Clue?

Dad's headache meds are beyond my coping abiliites

[Bikingmomof3]

I was in the library reading by candle light-my migraines, you know.

[Xrayted]

No, bad defense. Remember the candlestick is a weapon. Hmmm... gimme a minute. :rolleyes:

[Kitsune06]

*giggle*
Lise, somehow I don't doubt it. Al Capone lived in WI and Illinois, and from what I hear the mob is still doing relatively decent business...

BMo3- I believe you. I do. Really. *backs away*

X- Candlestick as a weapon? That's just scary. I'd take my chances with a toothbrush shiv over that any day.

[Xrayted]

Shhh, Kit. Ix-nay on the ob-may. *looks around for anything suspicious*

Ok there BMo3 - put the candle down and back away. :p

[Bikingmomof3]

*sigh* take away what little fun I have. :p

I need to figure out how to wrap the gifts from Santa without the kiddos seeing. Ideas?

[Kitsune06]

X- I dunno 'bout joo, but I tink Cousin Vinny would be most upset bout your lack of faith in my secrecy. ;) I got thumbs to prove I knows what I'm doin'.

BMo3- *brandishes a toothbrush (the kind with the nifty grips and flexible neck and everything!)* En Garde!!!

[Xrayted]

ah, Kuzin Vinnie don't know nuthin' I don't tell 'im. ;)

No flexible neck either, it gives too much. Ya gotta sink it in further and then ya get yer hands dirty. :rolleyes:

Now about that wrapping... go into the bedroom, hon. Put up a do not disturb and lock the door. (Wait, don't forget to take the hubby in with ya for some interesting break times. ;)) Play some loud music, stuff they don't like, like Pavarotti or something. It's like garlic to a vampire. Then wrap (and whatever else) away. Good luck!! :D

[Kitsune06]

X- I think that's more like unwrapping...

BMo3- I second X.