Behold:
Nope. Not a darned thing is natural about that.
_____
Rubber-Necking
Okay, if I wasn't sure before, this has me convinced that Janet Jackson has been abducted by aliens and replaced with a steroidal drag queen who is now trying desperately to convince the world he is indeed Ms. Jackson.
Behold:
Nope. Not a darned thing is natural about that.
_____
Behold:
Nope. Not a darned thing is natural about that.
_____
Rubber-Necking
Quote of the Day:
_____
"Today we started out with a vibrant pink presence outside the White House with over a dozen fasters."How in the world do these nutballs think anyone can take them seriously when they spout lunacy like this? Yeesh!
_____
Drive-Bys
Since LL swiped a couple of quizzes from me, I'm returning the favor...
What obsolete skill are you?
You are 'Latin'. Even among obsolete skills, the tongue of the ancient Romans is a real anachronism. With its profusion of different cases and conjugations, Latin is more than a language; it is a whole different way of thinking about things.You are very classy, meaning that you value the classics. You value old things, good things which have stood the test of time. You value things which have been proven worthy and valuable, even if no one else these days sees them that way. Your life is touched by a certain 'pietas', or piety; perhaps you are even a Stoic. Nonetheless, you have a certain fascination with the grotesque and the profane. Also, the modern world rejects you like a bad transplant. Your problem is that Latin has been obsolete for a long time.
Take this quiz!
Quizilla |
Join
| Make A Quiz | More Quizzes | Grab Code
_____
I, for one, didn't think there was anything untrue in this article, but apparently it put some women's undies in a bunch. Pfooey on them! I've run across all 10 of those type of women in my time, and don't think any one of them represents my gender -- or ME in particular -- as a rule. In fact, the article made me laugh.
I'll make you a little prediction here -- when guys read this article, they'll probably be nodding their heads and thinking, "Yeah, I've met that guy. What a doofus," and not get all PMS-mental about a little truth-telling.
Ladies, lighten up. Seriously.
_____
What obsolete skill are you?
You are 'Latin'. Even among obsolete skills, the tongue of the ancient Romans is a real anachronism. With its profusion of different cases and conjugations, Latin is more than a language; it is a whole different way of thinking about things.You are very classy, meaning that you value the classics. You value old things, good things which have stood the test of time. You value things which have been proven worthy and valuable, even if no one else these days sees them that way. Your life is touched by a certain 'pietas', or piety; perhaps you are even a Stoic. Nonetheless, you have a certain fascination with the grotesque and the profane. Also, the modern world rejects you like a bad transplant. Your problem is that Latin has been obsolete for a long time.
Take this quiz!
Quizilla |
Join
| Make A Quiz | More Quizzes | Grab Code
_____
I, for one, didn't think there was anything untrue in this article, but apparently it put some women's undies in a bunch. Pfooey on them! I've run across all 10 of those type of women in my time, and don't think any one of them represents my gender -- or ME in particular -- as a rule. In fact, the article made me laugh.
I'll make you a little prediction here -- when guys read this article, they'll probably be nodding their heads and thinking, "Yeah, I've met that guy. What a doofus," and not get all PMS-mental about a little truth-telling.
Ladies, lighten up. Seriously.
_____
Tootin' the Horn
It's Tammi's birthday, and our pal Oddybobo has posted a little beefcake to celebrate. Never let it be said that I don't recognize a good idea when I see it.
Here you go, Tammi:
Happy Birthday, girlfriend!
_____
Here you go, Tammi:
Happy Birthday, girlfriend!
_____
Drive-Bys
This is probably more true than I'd like to think:
(A tip of the cap to Deb.)
_____
A little too much information, but I still found this giggle-worthy...
Just so.
_____
| You Are 32% Brutally Honest |
 Honesty is nice, but only when it's convenient. You'd rather be nice than honest. You figure it's important to be honest about the big stuff, but little lies never hurt anyone! |
(A tip of the cap to Deb.)
_____
A little too much information, but I still found this giggle-worthy...
| Your Boobies' Names Are... |
 |
Just so.
_____
From the Rowdies in the Back of the Bus
The Sweetheart of Shell Knob, MO wants you to know...
In these serious times it is important for all of us, of all faiths, to recognize these four Religious Truths:
1. Muslims do not recognize Jews as God's chosen people.
2. Jews do not recognize Jesus as the Messiah.
3. Protestants do not recognize the Pope as the leader of the Christian world.
4. Presbyterians do not recognize each other at Hooters
I'll bet this guy could do a dandy photo illustration of just how this might have happened:
(Thanks, Elizabeth! I giggle myself silly over this.)
_____
Montgomery Epstein was taking an oral examination. He was asked to spell "cultivate," and he did so correctly.
"But do you know what the word means?" asked the teacher. "Can you use it in a sentence?"
For a moment
I went to the bank the other day...I asked the banker to check my balance...so she pushed me!
What did the Jewish bank teller say to her customers? "You never write, you never call, you only visit when you need money."
Hear about the new synagogue in_____
Update: I knew it was too funny to be true... but still...
Oh, well... my colleague Hattie, who brought this to my attention, also notes that there is a blog just bursting with hoaxey factoids.
_____
Rubber-Necking
Quote of the Day:
_____
"In my opinion, if you have to ask yourself when the right time to don your blinking penis tiara is, you should ask a trusted friend to monitor your behavior for the rest of the night because you are obviously drunk."Amen, sister!
_____
Bus Fumes
George R.R. Martin is taunting me with this small offering. No more excuses, George! Please just get A Dance with Dragons on the shelf, already!
(I wonder if the good professor has seen this tidbit? Or that there are two more volumes planned for the series?)
Durrrrrrr!!!
_____
(I wonder if the good professor has seen this tidbit? Or that there are two more volumes planned for the series?)
Durrrrrrr!!!
_____
Updating the Terminal
Coming soon to Chez Omnibus...
This cool table...
This really comfy couch...
These awesome chairs (but in a deep eggplant microsuede)...
And this awesome desk/wall unit.
Yes, I am indeed having fun. Thanks for asking!
_____
This cool table...
This really comfy couch...
These awesome chairs (but in a deep eggplant microsuede)...
And this awesome desk/wall unit.
Yes, I am indeed having fun. Thanks for asking!
_____
Drive-Bys
Quote of the Day:
_____
Update: Links are fixed. (But Blogger is slow today...)
"You do not want to ever ask me my thoughts on Katie Couric."Of course Darren McLikes Himself. I certainly do. You will, too.
_____
Update: Links are fixed. (But Blogger is slow today...)
Bus Fumes
Ay yi yi!
What in the heck happened to the Manolo? for the Mens? for the Bride?
Wait! At least there's Manolo for the Food.
It's not enough. I want the Manolo back -- right now!
_____
Update: He's baaa-ack!
_____
What in the heck happened to the Manolo? for the Mens? for the Bride?
Wait! At least there's Manolo for the Food.
It's not enough. I want the Manolo back -- right now!
_____
Update: He's baaa-ack!
_____
Drive-Bys
There's a very good reason I rarely get asked to stand up in a wedding. (Scroll down through the comments after reading Bou's connundrum.)
_____
I've got a birthday coming up next month. I'm not saying how young I am, but this might give you a hint:
I am...
32 years 2 months younger than Andy Griffith, age 80
28 years 8 months younger than Dick Clark, age 76
27 years 5 months younger than Leonard Nimoy, age 75
25 years 4 months younger than Carol Burnett, age 73
22 years 6 months younger than Alan Alda, age 70
21 years 1 month younger than Bill Cosby, age 69
15 years 9 months younger than Linda Evans, age 63
13 years 6 months younger than Tom Selleck, age 61
10 years 7 months younger than Ted Danson, age 58
8 years 3 months younger than Jay Leno, age 56
4 years 6 months younger than Oprah Winfrey, age 52
3 years 6 months younger than Kelsey Grammer, age 51
0 years 3 months younger than Drew Carey, age 48
2 years 10 months older than Michael J. Fox, age 45
6 years 3 months older than Calista Flockhart, age 41
10 years 6 months older than Jennifer Aniston, age 37
14 years 4 months older than Alyssa Milano, age 33
19 years 3 months older than Colin Hanks, age 28
25 years 0 months older than Mila Kunis, age 22
32 years 11 months older than Madylin Sweeten, age 15
And I was...
_____
Oh, yeah. And I taught TMBCITW this little ditty this weekend. Urk. I don't ususally feel OLD...
and the scary part is that I know most (but not all) of these, as well.
_____
(A tip of the cap to Lady Gunn.)
_____
Oops! Here's one more:
(A tip of the cap to the Queen O'Lemons & Lollipops.)
_____
_____
I've got a birthday coming up next month. I'm not saying how young I am, but this might give you a hint:
I am...
32 years 2 months younger than Andy Griffith, age 80
28 years 8 months younger than Dick Clark, age 76
27 years 5 months younger than Leonard Nimoy, age 75
25 years 4 months younger than Carol Burnett, age 73
22 years 6 months younger than Alan Alda, age 70
21 years 1 month younger than Bill Cosby, age 69
15 years 9 months younger than Linda Evans, age 63
13 years 6 months younger than Tom Selleck, age 61
10 years 7 months younger than Ted Danson, age 58
8 years 3 months younger than Jay Leno, age 56
4 years 6 months younger than Oprah Winfrey, age 52
3 years 6 months younger than Kelsey Grammer, age 51
0 years 3 months younger than Drew Carey, age 48
2 years 10 months older than Michael J. Fox, age 45
6 years 3 months older than Calista Flockhart, age 41
10 years 6 months older than Jennifer Aniston, age 37
14 years 4 months older than Alyssa Milano, age 33
19 years 3 months older than Colin Hanks, age 28
25 years 0 months older than Mila Kunis, age 22
32 years 11 months older than Madylin Sweeten, age 15
And I was...
1 years old when the first episode of Bonanza aired
4 years old at the time Beverly Hillbillies first aired
6 years old when the Addams Family first appeared on TV
8 years old at the time the first Star Trek episode was televised
12 years old when All in the Family was first shown
14 years old at the time the TV series M*A*S*H began
17 years old when Saturday Night Live first aired
19 years old when CBS introduced Dallas
22 years old during the first airing of Hill Street Blues
24 years old at the time the first Cheers episode was televised
28 years old when L.A. Law was first aired on TV
28 years old at the time the series Married with Children began
31 years old when Seinfeld was first televised
33 years old in the month Home Improvement began
36 years old at the time the TV series Friends began
38 years old when Everybody Loves Raymond first aired
41 years old when Who Wants To Be A Millionaire began in the US
Go check out Boy the Bear's TV Age Gauge for your own frightening data.
_____
Oh, yeah. And I taught TMBCITW this little ditty this weekend. Urk. I don't ususally feel OLD...
and the scary part is that I know most (but not all) of these, as well.
_____
| What Your Soul Really Looks Like |
 You are very passionate and quite temperamental. While you can be moody, you always crave comfort. You are a grounded person, but you also leave room for imagination and dreams. Your feet may be on the ground, but your head is in the clouds. You see yourself with pretty objective eyes. How you view yourself is almost exactly how other people view you. Your near future is all about change, but in very small steps. The end of the journey looks far, but it's much closer than you realize. For you, love is all about caring and comfort. You couldn't fall in love with someone you didn't trust. |
(A tip of the cap to Lady Gunn.)
_____
Oops! Here's one more:
| You Are 6: The Loyalist |
You have strong relationships and are intensely loyal. People find you easy to love and care for. You like your world to be stable and secure, no surprises. You're cautious. You prefer your inner circle to the outside world. |
(A tip of the cap to the Queen O'Lemons & Lollipops.)
_____
Roadside Diversions
Don't forget the Friday Ark, up at the Modulator.
In addition, the intrepid Christina has kicked off a new blog novella (or "Scarevella") this week. (Is there anything this woman can't handle???) Be prepared to be creeped out!
Saturday brings Weekend Cat Blogging at eatstuff and the Carnival of the Recipes at Home Recipes. (Hmmm. Perhaps eatstuff should host the Carnival of the Recipes some time. It's only logical, don't you think?)
Sunday evening look for the Carnival of the Cats at Creatures of the Earth.
There. That ought to keep you busy for a while.
_____
In addition, the intrepid Christina has kicked off a new blog novella (or "Scarevella") this week. (Is there anything this woman can't handle???) Be prepared to be creeped out!
Saturday brings Weekend Cat Blogging at eatstuff and the Carnival of the Recipes at Home Recipes. (Hmmm. Perhaps eatstuff should host the Carnival of the Recipes some time. It's only logical, don't you think?)
Sunday evening look for the Carnival of the Cats at Creatures of the Earth.
There. That ought to keep you busy for a while.
_____
Drive-Bys
Hmmm...
_____
(A tip of the cap to Patti, who pointed me to both of these quizzes.)
_____
These, I found on my own:
_____
_____
_____
| You Are An ENFP |
The Inspirer You love being around people, and you are deeply committed to your friends. You are also unconventional, irreverant, and unimpressed by authority and rules. Incredibly perceptive, you can usually sense if someone has hidden motives. You use lots of colorful language and expressions. You're quite the storyteller! You would make an excellent entrepreneur, politician, or journalist. |
| In a Past Life... |
 You Were: A Gentle Despot. Where You Lived: China. How You Died: Consumption. |
(A tip of the cap to Patti, who pointed me to both of these quizzes.)
_____
These, I found on my own:
| You Are a Boston Terrier Puppy |
 Aggressive, wild, and rambunctious. Deep down, you're just a cuddle monster. |
| You Are 64% Open Minded |
 You are a very open minded person, but you're also well grounded. Tolerant and flexible, you appreciate most lifestyles and viewpoints. But you also know where you stand firm, and you can draw that line. You're open to considering every possibility - but in the end, you stand true to yourself. |
_____
| Your EQ is 140 |
 50 or less: Thanks for answering honestly. Now get yourself a shrink, quick! 51-70: When it comes to understanding human emotions, you'd have better luck understanding Chinese. 71-90: You've got more emotional intelligence than the average frat boy. Barely. 91-110: You're average. It's easy to predict how you'll react to things. But anyone could have guessed that. 111-130: You usually have it going on emotionally, but roadblocks tend to land you on your butt. 131-150: You are remarkable when it comes to relating with others. Only the biggest losers get under your skin. 150+: Two possibilities - you've either out "Dr. Phil-ed" Dr. Phil... or you're a dirty liar. |
_____
Rubber-Necking
Pammy just reminded me that my mother occasionally offers up pithy little phrases that leave me scratching my head. (So what was it that Pammy said that got me started? "It's been dry, too. Dry as a popcorn fart.")
Some Princess Momilies that stand out in particular:
_____
Some Princess Momilies that stand out in particular:
He/she drives like the Hammers of Hell.What momilies does your mother pop up with?
We shot through that like shit through a tin horn.
_____
Roadside Diversions
Carnival of the Vanities #200 -- The Rob Smith Memorial Edition -- is up at Accidental Verbosity. I really do hope Rob knew in his heart just how many people cared about his cracker ass...
_____
_____
Drive-Bys
Quote of the day:
_____
Dear Lord! My eyeballs will never be the same...
_____
My BlogDaddy is a free man as of yesterday. Go wish him heartiest congratulations. (And add good wishes for opportunities to "avenge the Pope" as frequently as humanly possible.)
_____
Either Chicago is in extremely fine shape or our elected aldermen have such little tiny pea brains that these are the most complicated problems they think they know how to deal with. Mighty tough to do when they've obviously only got a couple of active neurons apiece firing in their collective craniums.
_____
Is it any wonder why Christina is one of my heroes?
_____
Dear Lord! My eyeballs will never be the same...
_____
My BlogDaddy is a free man as of yesterday. Go wish him heartiest congratulations. (And add good wishes for opportunities to "avenge the Pope" as frequently as humanly possible.)
_____
Either Chicago is in extremely fine shape or our elected aldermen have such little tiny pea brains that these are the most complicated problems they think they know how to deal with. Mighty tough to do when they've obviously only got a couple of active neurons apiece firing in their collective craniums.
_____
Chartered Excursions -- Chicago Recap
Another blogmeet, another great bunch of new friends! Sure wish I'd felt better, because I'm quite certain I missed a great deal of hilarity after I left Klas on Saturday night.
So who was there at the Stonewood Ale House on Friday night?
Jimmy B, the Conservative UAW Guy arrived first. Yes, indeedy, folks -- this Buckeye State boy beat Chicagoans to the restaurant, even though he had to fight Friday night rush hour traffic on the Dan Ryan Expressway. I was mighty impressed, and for good reason!
Next to arrive was the Windypundit* -- a guy I've been wanting to meet for some time now. Once I got over the vision clouded with lust caused by his camera equipment (if you saw it, you'd be in serious photo-lust, too), I was pleased to find that Mark is every bit as great of a guy as you'd expect from his writing. One of these days, I hope to meet his missus, too.
A really big treat for me was that Ferdy, the Conservative Cat, let Bruce the Human Pet* and Peg-Eye Nate out of the house for a visit to the Ogmeet. (And I understand we may be changing it to Dead-Eye Nate if Og and Jimmy B have anything to do with it.)
Next to arrive was a complete stranger to me -- Grant Crowell* of Grantastic Designs, Inc., who I understand will soon be blogging under the name of "G-Spot". (Sorry. Couldn't resist.) Grant is a fascinating guy who, once having been threatened by the man, is currently in the process of filming a documentary to expose the truth about Ward Churchill. Let's just say Grant brought very lively conversation to the table!
Finally, Mr. Right* (another of the folks high on my "must meet" list) and the lovely Mrs. Right** rounded out the group.
When you put a bunch of IT* tech heads and an IT teacher**, you also get far more information than a technotard such as my humble self can possibly ever absorb... but it certainly wasn't boring. In fact, it pretty darned heady company.
After the party broke up, but before I could make it all the way home to Chez Bus Driver, I got a call from Mr. Blogmeet, himself, checking to see if I could find a place to meet him, my favorite Beer-Brained pal, and the lovely and talented (and EMPLOYEED) Ms. Tammi, who had been shanghaied earlier by this guy (who didn't attend the Ogmeet -- for shame!).
Oops! Gotta go. More tomorrow!
_____
So who was there at the Stonewood Ale House on Friday night?
Jimmy B, the Conservative UAW Guy arrived first. Yes, indeedy, folks -- this Buckeye State boy beat Chicagoans to the restaurant, even though he had to fight Friday night rush hour traffic on the Dan Ryan Expressway. I was mighty impressed, and for good reason!
Next to arrive was the Windypundit* -- a guy I've been wanting to meet for some time now. Once I got over the vision clouded with lust caused by his camera equipment (if you saw it, you'd be in serious photo-lust, too), I was pleased to find that Mark is every bit as great of a guy as you'd expect from his writing. One of these days, I hope to meet his missus, too.
A really big treat for me was that Ferdy, the Conservative Cat, let Bruce the Human Pet* and Peg-Eye Nate out of the house for a visit to the Ogmeet. (And I understand we may be changing it to Dead-Eye Nate if Og and Jimmy B have anything to do with it.)
Next to arrive was a complete stranger to me -- Grant Crowell* of Grantastic Designs, Inc., who I understand will soon be blogging under the name of "G-Spot". (Sorry. Couldn't resist.) Grant is a fascinating guy who, once having been threatened by the man, is currently in the process of filming a documentary to expose the truth about Ward Churchill. Let's just say Grant brought very lively conversation to the table!
Finally, Mr. Right* (another of the folks high on my "must meet" list) and the lovely Mrs. Right** rounded out the group.
When you put a bunch of IT* tech heads and an IT teacher**, you also get far more information than a technotard such as my humble self can possibly ever absorb... but it certainly wasn't boring. In fact, it pretty darned heady company.
After the party broke up, but before I could make it all the way home to Chez Bus Driver, I got a call from Mr. Blogmeet, himself, checking to see if I could find a place to meet him, my favorite Beer-Brained pal, and the lovely and talented (and EMPLOYEED) Ms. Tammi, who had been shanghaied earlier by this guy (who didn't attend the Ogmeet -- for shame!).
Oops! Gotta go. More tomorrow!
_____
Book Your Ticket
I, for one, am glad El Capitan didn't cut a single word in his ending to the Psychevella.
Behold:
Chapter One by Bob: Bitter Herbs
Chapter Two by Christina: Heads Up
Chapter Three by Leslie: Shrink This
Chapter Four by Amelie: The Old Neighbourhood
Chapter Five by CalTechGirl: Dead End?
And Chapter Six: Silver Bells and Cockleshells
Gadzooks!
_____
Behold:
Chapter One by Bob: Bitter Herbs
Chapter Two by Christina: Heads Up
Chapter Three by Leslie: Shrink This
Chapter Four by Amelie: The Old Neighbourhood
Chapter Five by CalTechGirl: Dead End?
And Chapter Six: Silver Bells and Cockleshells
Gadzooks!
_____
Tootin' the Horn
Boy, it's nice when you get what you asked for... and even nicer when your request is fast-tracked!
A hug and a big ol' smoocheroo to Bruce the Human Pet of the Conservative Cat for putting together the Illinois Blogger Community (see "Da Locals" in my blogroll) so quickly. Also be sure to stop by and visit the Illinois Blogger Community Page from time to time.
What? You say there's not much there yet? Well, then... you need to go sign up here, put the IBC code in your blogroll, and send trackbacks to your posts about Illinois to Ferdy.
Thanks again, Bruce!
_____
Even more excitement at Chez Bus Driver! Look what's coming in the morning:
Let the happy dance begin!
_____
A hug and a big ol' smoocheroo to Bruce the Human Pet of the Conservative Cat for putting together the Illinois Blogger Community (see "Da Locals" in my blogroll) so quickly. Also be sure to stop by and visit the Illinois Blogger Community Page from time to time.
What? You say there's not much there yet? Well, then... you need to go sign up here, put the IBC code in your blogroll, and send trackbacks to your posts about Illinois to Ferdy.
Thanks again, Bruce!
_____
Even more excitement at Chez Bus Driver! Look what's coming in the morning:
Let the happy dance begin!_____
Busman's Holiday
That's it, folks! I'm outta here until Monday. If you're attending Ogmeet 2006 and still need to rides to/from the airport or to reserve a spot for dinner Saturday evening, email the Great and Powerful Og. He has my number and can track me down.
Og knows all, sees all, hears all.
And, God help us, BLOGS ALL.
_____
Og knows all, sees all, hears all.
And, God help us, BLOGS ALL.
_____
Book Your Ticket
I tripped over this meme at the Llama Butchers' joint, and just couldn't resist:
1. A book that made you cry:
Marley & Me : Life and Love with the World's Worst Dog – There’s something wrong with you if this book doesn’t rip your heart out.
2. A book that scared you: Audrey Rose – I stopped reading scary books after that. They give me nightmares, and it’s just not worth it.
3. A book that made you laugh: Why Cucumbers Are Better Than Men – It was right after my divorce went through, and provided a huge belly laugh when I needed it most.
4. A book that disgusted you: The Bonfire of the Vanities – Not a single character with a redeeming quality anywhere.
5. A book you loved in elementary school: From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler – This was given to me by my dad’s younger sister, who loves books as much as I do. I must have read this one at least a dozen times.
6. A book you loved in middle school: The Crystal Cave : Book One of the Arthurian Saga – Thus began my love affair with all things Arthurian.
7. A book you loved in high school: A Separate Peace – This book grabbed me by the throat and wouldn’t let go.
8. A book you loved in college: Paradise Lost – I took a graduate level seminar when I should have been taking a linguistics requirement course, instead. Yes – I always did go my own way.
9. A book that challenged your identity or your faith: When Bad Things Happen to Good People – A dear friend of mine from high school committed suicide and I nearly lost my faith in God. This wonderful book really challenged what I had been taught – and questioned – about religion.
12. Your favorite science-fiction book: Ender’s Game – Don’t ever mistake this for a kid’s book. In fact, I just sent a copy to my nephew, who’s suddenly developed a real love of reading. Yippee!
13. Your favorite fantasy book(s): Aside from the Game of Throne books? The whole “Kushiel” series. Sex. Relion. Politics. Beautiful.
14. Your favorite mystery book: The Secret of the Mansion, not because it’s great literature, but because it hooked me on the genre. Closely followed by Nancy Drew, Cherry Ames, Judy Bolton, Harriet the Spy and more, who taught me that girls could be smart and brave at a time when we were brought up to be cute and obedient.
15. Your favorite biography: Between Silk and Cyanide: A Codemaker's War, 1941-1945 – Yes, I know it's an autobiography, but it’s a phenomenal read.
16. Your favorite coming-of-age book: The Yearling – Need I say more?
17. Your favorite book not on this list: Life of Pi – One of my favorite books ever.
1. A book that made you cry:
Marley & Me : Life and Love with the World's Worst Dog – There’s something wrong with you if this book doesn’t rip your heart out.
2. A book that scared you: Audrey Rose – I stopped reading scary books after that. They give me nightmares, and it’s just not worth it.
3. A book that made you laugh: Why Cucumbers Are Better Than Men – It was right after my divorce went through, and provided a huge belly laugh when I needed it most.
4. A book that disgusted you: The Bonfire of the Vanities – Not a single character with a redeeming quality anywhere.
5. A book you loved in elementary school: From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler – This was given to me by my dad’s younger sister, who loves books as much as I do. I must have read this one at least a dozen times.
6. A book you loved in middle school: The Crystal Cave : Book One of the Arthurian Saga – Thus began my love affair with all things Arthurian.
7. A book you loved in high school: A Separate Peace – This book grabbed me by the throat and wouldn’t let go.
8. A book you loved in college: Paradise Lost – I took a graduate level seminar when I should have been taking a linguistics requirement course, instead. Yes – I always did go my own way.
9. A book that challenged your identity or your faith: When Bad Things Happen to Good People – A dear friend of mine from high school committed suicide and I nearly lost my faith in God. This wonderful book really challenged what I had been taught – and questioned – about religion.
10. A series that you love: I’ve read everything by or about James Herriot that I could get my hands on. The “Bean” series by Orson Scott Card. Robert Caro’s 4-part biography of Lyndon Baines Johnson. (I’m still waiting for the presidential years. Please hurry it up, Mr. Caro!) The Game of Thrones series by George R.R. Martin. The Stephanie Plum series by Janet Evanovich. The Cliff Janeway series by John Dunning. Many, many more.
11. Your favorite horror book: That’s an oxymoron.
12. Your favorite science-fiction book: Ender’s Game – Don’t ever mistake this for a kid’s book. In fact, I just sent a copy to my nephew, who’s suddenly developed a real love of reading. Yippee!
13. Your favorite fantasy book(s): Aside from the Game of Throne books? The whole “Kushiel” series. Sex. Relion. Politics. Beautiful.
14. Your favorite mystery book: The Secret of the Mansion, not because it’s great literature, but because it hooked me on the genre. Closely followed by Nancy Drew, Cherry Ames, Judy Bolton, Harriet the Spy and more, who taught me that girls could be smart and brave at a time when we were brought up to be cute and obedient.
15. Your favorite biography: Between Silk and Cyanide: A Codemaker's War, 1941-1945 – Yes, I know it's an autobiography, but it’s a phenomenal read.
16. Your favorite coming-of-age book: The Yearling – Need I say more?
17. Your favorite book not on this list: Life of Pi – One of my favorite books ever.
(A tip of the cap to Robbo.)
Drive-Bys
Wow! Sometimes it really does pay to dream big, goofy dreams.
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It's NOT my fault. (But that did give me a giggle.) Nope -- I don't envy El Capitan one little bit.
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It's NOT my fault. (But that did give me a giggle.) Nope -- I don't envy El Capitan one little bit.
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Chartered Excursions -- Chicago
Sorry to be tardy getting info out to those planning on attending this weekend. A move the weekend of the first, the Princess Mom having outpatient surgery on a couple of hematomas that got infected (remember the backward swan dive?), and my baby brother (I only call him that when he irritates me) passing on a whopping case of bronchitis have slowed me down considerably.
Anywhooo.... here's the plan:
I'm planning to take the day off on Friday, so if you are coming in by air or train, let me know if you need to be picked up, where and at what time.
Friday evening, let's meet up at the Stonewood Ale House, a dandy spot recommended by the lovely and talented LL. I'll get there by 5:00 p.m., but you can plan to show up whenever it suits your fancy. (Making bloggers do anything at the same time is like trying to herd cats on horseback with whisk brooms -- almost impossible.) We'll stay until the last blogger crawls out the door. How will you recognize me? I'll wear my Stetson. (I love any excuse to wear that hat!)
Saturday daytime:
Og is planning on being at the shooting range by 9:00 a.m. If you're going to need a ride, please let me or Og know ASAP.
For non-shootists, you have several choices:
1. Vegging by the pool at the Wyndham;
2. Shopping at Woodfield Mall;
3. A trip into Chicago to visit Millennium Park and anything else that strikes our fancy once we get there. (I'll plan to pull out of the Wyndham parking lot by 10:00 a.m. I'll plan to pull out of Grant Park Garage at 3:30 p.m. in order to give time to refresh, change, fortify, whatever.)
4. Stay home and get stuff done and make the rest of us working stiffs feel guilty.
If you're planning on the Chicago junket, please let me know so we can arrange rides for you.
Saturday evening, plan to meet at Klas around 6:00 p.m. Og notes that we should have a private room, so if you arrive late, just ask for the Ogmeet. (In fact, that's probably a good name for this whole venture, since it was his big idea in the first place.) As a courtesy to the restaurant, it would be good to have a head count. You know the drill.
Sunday morning -- you're on your own to make plans for breakfast, brunch, or the like. Need rides to the airport/train station? Again, let me know.
You can contact me at Omnibus-dot-Driver-at-gmail-dot-com or Og at mhardig-at-aol-dot-com.
From the emails I've gotten so far, it sounds like it's going to be a fascinating group... and remember -- lurkers and commenters are welcome, too.
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TTFN. I'm off to slurp more cough medicine...
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Update: A tip of the cap to Mr. Debonair for the pointer that led to our logo, above! (I sure wish he was coming, too!)
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Drive-Bys
Quote of the Day: "Facial hair is acceptable if it is cared for. Sasquatch is single. There's a reason why."
(Why do I have a funny feeling someone I know is going to take exception with this???)
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(Why do I have a funny feeling someone I know is going to take exception with this???)
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Another Peek in the Rear View Mirror
A year ago, I looked back at my first year of blogging. It's amazing how much can happen in a short twelve months:
I lost some of my technotard cred, thanks to my Adopted BlogBrother.
I told tales on myself.
I coined a new phrase.
I put on my activist hat.
I let my Freudian slip hang out.
I biscuit blogged.
I went to my first big-time blogmeet and became and honorary Jawja Blown-Eyed Blodger.
My blessings increased.
A friend made a momentous decision.
My Adopted Blog Sistah tried to stage an intervention.
Tiger Boots and The Divine Miss Marilyn learned to live in harmony. Then they both fell for the same fickle feline.
The wait was finally over. And it wasn't worth it.
Tiger Boots got her freak on (and it was all my fault).
I lost a dear friend.
I wished, I looked back, and someone called security.
I produced evidence that Santarchy is rampant in Chicago.
I told more tales on myself.
I met the Schiznitzes at Fritz's.
I got the news no lady ever wants to hear.
I took a cluebat to an Agony Aunties head.
I ranted about bachelorette parties. Yick.
The Divine Miss Marilyn staked her claim on Giggolo Kitty!
I got marvelous news about The Princess Mom.
Tiger Boots got a new crush. See?
The Divine Miss Marilyn shows her ruthless side.
I lost another dear friend.
I took another spin down Memory Lane.
I got sentimental.
I took on the Hilton.
I birthed my first blogchild.
I was naughty (and I paid for it).
Then the Hilton really pissed me off.
Apparently, someone at Hilton was paying attention.
Buckaroo Bonsai and I took separate paths.
I went to the Blown-Eyed blowout in Austin, TX.
Two of my favorite females met for the first time.
That moron Brian Kelleher pissed me off again.
The Hilton fight got even uglier.
I was revealed as an instigator.
So, of course, I fired right back at Hilton. (Note to self: It's time to hold Hilton's feet to the fire again.)
I miss Tiger Boots.
The Divine Miss Marilyn tried out disguises.
Hmmm... Didn't Christina have me writing 1,000 words at about the same time last year?
Og corraled me into helping set up a Chicago Blogmeet. (I'm calling him this weekend. Final plans for Friday and Saturday to be annouced Monday.)
I lost another good friend, damn it, and paused to reflect on the lessons I learned from him.
I missed my dad.
I loved. I lost at love. I made some outstanding friends. The Lord called a couple of them home. I laughed. I cried. I ranted. I depended on the kindness of my family. I figured out how to get myself back up onto my own two feet again.
All in all, it was a very good year.
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Tootin' the Horn
Omigosh! Tomorrow the Omnibus is two years old. My, how time flies when you're having fun.
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Mr. Debonair himself is having a blogiversary today. Swing on by and wish him many happy returns of the day.
(His friendship one of the many blessings the blog world has bestowed on me in the past year.)
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Mr. Debonair himself is having a blogiversary today. Swing on by and wish him many happy returns of the day.
(His friendship one of the many blessings the blog world has bestowed on me in the past year.)
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Book Your Ticket
Chapter Five of the Psychevella is up at Not Exactly Rocket Science.
What? You haven't been following it all along? Then go here:
Bob started us off with Bitter Herbs.
Christina followed up with Heads Up.
My own Shrink This, followed by...
Amelie and The Old Neighborhood, and now...
Caltechgirl's Dead End?
El Capitan winds us up with Chapter Six. Personally, I can't wait to see how it ends!
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What? You haven't been following it all along? Then go here:
Bob started us off with Bitter Herbs.
Christina followed up with Heads Up.
My own Shrink This, followed by...
Amelie and The Old Neighborhood, and now...
Caltechgirl's Dead End?
El Capitan winds us up with Chapter Six. Personally, I can't wait to see how it ends!
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Drive-Bys
 |
| 'What will your obituary say?' at QuizGalaxy.com |
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| Your Life Path Number is 6 |
 Your purpose in life is to help others You are very compassionate, and you offer comfort to those around you. It pains you to see other people hurting, and you do all in your power to help them. You take on responsibility, and don't mind personal sacrifice. You are the ultimate giver. In love, you offer warmth and protection to your partner. You often give too much of yourself, and you rarely put your own needs first. Emotions tend to rule your decisions too much, especially when it comes to love. And while taking care of people is great, make sure to give them room to grow on their own. |
Ayuh.
(A tip of the cap to Patti.)
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| You Are Elektra |
 There's really no superhero with more style than you. Because who could beat being sexy assasin ninja? |
But of course! (A tip of the cap to Jay and Deb.)
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The Rear View Mirror
I can't believe it's been seven years today since my dad passed away, and I'm still learning new things about him. Like his belonging to the Red Devils. (His obit is on page 4.)
Oh, I knew from photos that he'd been a paratrooper in the Army Air Corps. He never really talked about his days of military service, unless we had the box of family photos out and came across old pictures of him in jump boots, helmet and a 'chute that made him look like a six foot tall Q-Tip that was about 11 months pregnant. I knew he chose to be a 'trooper for the jump pay... NOT for the pleasure of jumping out of an airplane.
My dad was a practical guy. Military service was a route to an education after he lost his scholarship to Bowdoin by getting caught brewing beer in his dorm room. (Yes, he was also a bit of a devil.) Extra pay for jumping out of an airplane? Well, that meant one less night a week he'd have to sling hash once he returned to college.
That was my practical dad who did the job, whatever it took, in order to get ahead.
He had a sentimental side, too, though, which he only let show with immediate family... and I have an ear worm today, because of it. My dad's favorite song ever?
Edelweiss. Sung on every car trip between Cleveland and Boston, Chicago and Cleveland and Chicago and Boston. He'd request it at least once each day.
You'd think by now I'd be sick to death of that song, but no. It just reminds me of Daddy.
I miss my dad today more than ever.
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Oh, I knew from photos that he'd been a paratrooper in the Army Air Corps. He never really talked about his days of military service, unless we had the box of family photos out and came across old pictures of him in jump boots, helmet and a 'chute that made him look like a six foot tall Q-Tip that was about 11 months pregnant. I knew he chose to be a 'trooper for the jump pay... NOT for the pleasure of jumping out of an airplane.
My dad was a practical guy. Military service was a route to an education after he lost his scholarship to Bowdoin by getting caught brewing beer in his dorm room. (Yes, he was also a bit of a devil.) Extra pay for jumping out of an airplane? Well, that meant one less night a week he'd have to sling hash once he returned to college.
That was my practical dad who did the job, whatever it took, in order to get ahead.
He had a sentimental side, too, though, which he only let show with immediate family... and I have an ear worm today, because of it. My dad's favorite song ever?
Edelweiss. Sung on every car trip between Cleveland and Boston, Chicago and Cleveland and Chicago and Boston. He'd request it at least once each day.
You'd think by now I'd be sick to death of that song, but no. It just reminds me of Daddy.
I miss my dad today more than ever.
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Drive-Bys
Blame all of the following on Deathknyte (who must know how much I love these quizzes):
Between my participation in the Psychevella and Rob's passing last week, I found this next one positively eerie:
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| You Are Somewhat Machiavellian |
 You're not going to mow over everyone to get ahead... But you're also powerful enough to make things happen for yourself. You understand how the world works, even when it's an ugly place. You just don't get ugly yourself - unless you have to! |
| Your Blogging Type is Confident and Insightful |
 You've got a ton of brain power, and you leverage it into brilliant blog. Both creative and logical, you come up with amazing ideas and insights. A total perfectionist, you find yourself revising and rewriting posts a lot of the time. You blog for yourself - and you don't care how popular (or unpopular) your blog is! |
Between my participation in the Psychevella and Rob's passing last week, I found this next one positively eerie:
| You Are Death |
 You symbolize the end, which can be frightening. But you also symbolize the immortality of the soul. You represent transformation, rebirth of a new life. Sweeping away the past is part of this card, as painful as it may be. Your fortune: Don't worry, this card does not predict death itself; instead it foreshadows the ending of an era of your life, one that is hard to let go of. But with the future great new things will come, and it's time to embrace them. Mourn for a while, but then face the future with humility and courage. |
| You Are a Seeker Soul |
 You are on a quest for knowledge and life challenges. You love to be curious and ask a ton of questions. Since you know so much, you make for an interesting conversationalist. Mentally alert, you can outwit almost anyone (and have fun doing it!). Very introspective, you can be silently critical of others. And your quiet nature makes it difficult for people to get to know you. You see yourself as a philosopher, and you take everything philosophically. Your main talent is expressing and communicating ideas. Souls you are most compatible with: Hunter Soul and Visionary Soul |
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A Shout-Out to the Prayer Warriors
My friends Christina and Dash have lost their house due to a fire caused by a lightning strike. Please keep them and their girls, Sweet One and Wee One, in your prayers._____
Good grief. What next???
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Climb Aboard!
My darling baby blog sis Dana has devised a most fitting was to memorialize Old Crankypants, but she needs your help... and you don't have to be a blogger to participate. You don't even have to be female, but it doesn't hurt!
If you know anything at all about Rob, he loved him some red, (not pink) red toenails on pretty female feet. In fact, he once even talked Key into painting the toenails of V-Man's monkey at a blogmeet. We're talking a real red toenail obsession.
So how can you help? Dana needs you to join Project Red Toes.
After I stopped laughing myself silly, I went back to some old posts of photos I took to memorialize a special vacation, with Rob's goofy pedicure addiction as inspiration:
Postcards for Acidman:
Group 1
Group 2
Group 3
Group 4 (Okay -- no toenail photos here, but it moves the trip along.)
Group 5
Group 6
If I can do it, you can too. Send links to your blogphotos or attach your "digital" photos and email them to frankensoul-at-gmail-dot-com.
I don't know about you, but I'd wear Gutrumbles Red with pride.
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P.S. -- Once you start taking photos like this, it really gets to be fun. And it's a hell of an ice-breaker!
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If you know anything at all about Rob, he loved him some red, (not pink) red toenails on pretty female feet. In fact, he once even talked Key into painting the toenails of V-Man's monkey at a blogmeet. We're talking a real red toenail obsession.
So how can you help? Dana needs you to join Project Red Toes.
After I stopped laughing myself silly, I went back to some old posts of photos I took to memorialize a special vacation, with Rob's goofy pedicure addiction as inspiration:
Postcards for Acidman:
Group 1
Group 2
Group 3
Group 4 (Okay -- no toenail photos here, but it moves the trip along.)
Group 5
Group 6
If I can do it, you can too. Send links to your blogphotos or attach your "digital" photos and email them to frankensoul-at-gmail-dot-com.
I don't know about you, but I'd wear Gutrumbles Red with pride.
_____
P.S. -- Once you start taking photos like this, it really gets to be fun. And it's a hell of an ice-breaker!
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