RWA: A First Time Love Affair by OH
August 6th, 2008 at 06:08am orangehands
I was going to do a scene by scene of my arrival, fun times, and departure of San Fran, but really, you don’t want that many details. But I’ll break it down to the highlights. I arrived Wed after the plane, the airBART, the regular BART, walking uphill with a suitcase (ew) and plenty of nice conversations with strangers (the book I brought sucked). First thing I did in SF was meet Kay T (aka RWA roomie). Next thing I did was walk into a lobby with at least a hundred women talking romance, their voices like “chattering birds” (stole that from someone), their energy level sparking the mind. But that was nothing compared to the “Readers for Life” Literacy Autographing that night. Over 500 authors, a lot of the RWA members, and a huge smattering of the public filled up the enormous ballroom. I made a beeline to Suz Brockmann’s table- squeal squeal squeal- and then made my rounds around the place, picking up among others Kathleen O’Rielly’s Sex, Straight Up, which I’ve read since I’ve been back and found extremely well-written. As I’m making the end of my rounds I notice the raffle board and omibob I won two gift baskets. (Let me* say right now, Kay T actually dropped off my raffle tickets while I was in line for Suz- squeal- so I did share some of the goodies, though she wouldn’t take the seagull sculpture no matter how much I insisted. *grin*)
Thurs. was the beginning of the workshops (and the Goody Room, where I saw what made good promotional items and filled up a bag with the stuff). I got to see RSS again (yay! I was very lucky and got to spend a lot of time with RSS, all of it fabulous) and then Dee (first and last time I saw her at the conference; you need to get an elephant to sit on her to keep that CB in one place). The workshop to point out for that day is Watching the Detectives: Peek Inside a Real Detective Agency with Eileen Rendahl, who basically explained all the ins and outs of PI work and life. If anybody has a PI in their story, I’ll be happy to type up my notes from this one for you, cause wow was she informative. The luncheon during the afternoon had a very funny, funny speech by Victoria Alexander, who I must now read in the hopes she is just as funny in her books. I also went to the Moonlight Madness Bazaar (aka time to sell you stuff) and met the DH of a writer/blogger who did magic tricks. Spent more time talking to him than anyone else there (until he started to look like a young Tom Cruise which was a little freaky, cause ew) but he and his wife were very wonderful. Had the best time at dinner with RSS that night too, where I found out some more cool things about her and the family.
Fri. was the first all-day workshop day. There were three especially amazing wokshops. First, The 21st C Heroine: How Far She’s Come and Where She’s Heading (which included on its panel Kesington editor Kate Duffy who is completely hilarious; if you go to RWA next year make sure you go to one of her workshops). We had a very fascinating discussion that I learned a lot from (you burst with romance pride after this one). The second was World Building: Creating Your Own Universe. A lot of it was stuff I knew, and they were referring to contemporaries, but I had a lot of little light bulbs go off, which is the best response to have in a classroom (as opposed to yawning). And third was Sociopaths vs Psychopaths and the Serial Killer with Dr. Cynthia Lea Clark, and I must buy her books cause oh boy, the stuff she knows. I talked about her workshop often afterwards, which garners more strange looks than I was really expecting considering where I was. I also should mention the workshop with SEP and Jayne Anne Krentz, which was more entertaining than informative (not saying it’s a bad thing, I just found it to be so). I’d love to see Jenny with those two doing a ‘workshop’. This was also the night of the CB Get-Togther in Chinatown. I don’t really have words to describe just how it feels to be sitting and talking with CBs face to face. Most of you have experienced it, but it strikes me* every time by how wonderful it all is. Even if they think checking up to make sure they got home safely is something only a mother would do. Like if I wasn’t walking back with Kay T they wouldn’t have made me* do the same thing. CBs. Sheesh.
[BTW: I’m mentioning the names of the omibob workshops I went to because you can download the workshops from the website and you may want to look at a few to get a feel for them if you’ve never been to RWA. I’m not really suggesting any of the above three- first was more about being there, second was good but basically common sense, and the third will probably have a lot of blank spots as after her first five minutes of speaking we just peppered her with questions and I’m not sure how many she repeated for the mike. I did take good notes in the last one though, so again, will type them up if you so wish.]
Sat. had one very mentionable workshop (though there was another I liked, but mostly just because the people were so wonderful on the panel, all from Dorchester Publishing House)- From Cover Concept to Finished Cover, and this gave me a great view inside the marketing/sales/art dept. Don’t bother getting this one, you needed the images too, but I would love to go to another one like this. After that it was mostly zooming through book signings (cause at this point I really needed more books) instead of workshops. Then it was the awards ceremony, which I dragged Kay T to so I could see Suz emcee. As I said to Kay T, until RSS or another CB is up for an award, or someone like Jenny is doing host spot, I’m probably not going to another one. It was fun, and we got to sit in the finalist section (didn’t see the red rope, I swear officer), but once is plenty until a CB is nominated.
Sun. was not as fun, mostly cause I was leaving and partly because I had a monster headache. RSS, Kay T and I meet up and ate breakfast as lori’s diner (judging by the car in the middle of the place, let’s not have lori doing any driving any time soon). And then it was a plane ride and home, brimming with ideas, a headache, and the desire to go to RWA next year.
I really didn’t mean to do a play by play of the whole conference, but overall I have a few tidbits I picked up during the conference. One, get the vegeterian meal at lunch. Two, find a workshop with Kate Duffy in it. Three, learn as much as possible, but go to to at least one book signing during the weekend. Four, have Kay T drop your raffle tickets in the box if possible. Five, romance writers want to meet you and want to share as much knowledge as they can. Six, it truly is their refrain that the best book to write is the one you want to. Seven, stay in the hotel where the conference is at if possible; it truly is worth the money to be able to drop off stuff you pick up during the day instead of breaking your back (RSS lent me* her room for this reason).
And eight- it’s a magical experience, and I recommend it to anyone who loves romance- whether it’s reading, writing, or doing both with it. The energy you get can bring you into a new place in your writing and life. I’m so glad I finally went to one.
And don’t forget about Dr. T’s Scotland post below.
Entry Filed under: CB World, Reviews, Blog Business
108 Comments Add your own
1. BCB | August 6th, 2008 at 7:50 am
Geez. What is it about 20-yo females? Yesterday my DD put up four new posts on her blog and each one is about a million words and I haven’t even finished reading all of them yet and I come over here and OH has done the same thing. Gonna have to read it later, babe. It will be good to hear your voice again, regardless of content.
Just wanted to say I hope you all have a wonderful and productive day — unless you’ve decided today is for slacking off, then I hope you accomplish absolutely nothing.
2. McB | August 6th, 2008 at 8:42 am
Good post, OH. Feel almost like I was there. I can imagine that SEP and JAK were a lot of fun and yes, Jenny too would have been amazing.
CMS - sending the Force in Yoda’s direction.
3. glamour-geek | August 6th, 2008 at 10:00 am
I’ll have to read it later too! Must dash, but thought I’d amuse you with what seems to be the work routine so far:
A.M.s: Fairly calm, people working
P.M.s: Completely crazed, many last minute meetings that inevitably run over, much chaos.
It’s a bit entertaining, watching the players, learning the personalities and seeing the dynamics. Might as well take advantage of this observation period before I’m in the thick of it.
4. Christina | August 6th, 2008 at 10:26 am
Great post, OH. Sounds like you had a great time. I think I might like to go to RWA Nationals one year too. Definitely a worthwhile experience.
5. CC | August 6th, 2008 at 10:50 am
sounds fun- and next year is in DC so i could do the split between a hotel and my sister’s place- something to think about
6. btuda | August 6th, 2008 at 12:27 pm
Someday I too shall attend the RWA again. Chicago umpteen years ago was a blast.
Filled out three more on-line job applications. Whew - I needed a break.
As much as I’d love to say I’m not slacking off, I foresee lunch before the boob tube shortly.
7. me | August 6th, 2008 at 1:17 pm
Sigh. I wish I was there. Maybe next year. When I’ve finished my wip and have two ms to pitch…
Glad you have such a fun and inspiring time, OH.
8. McB | August 6th, 2008 at 1:50 pm
“I talked about her workshop often afterwards, which garners more strange looks than I was really expecting considering where I was.”
Well, it was a romance writers gathering, and a lot of people still have hang ups about what is appropriate in the romance genre. And possibly a lot of new writers are intimidated by a more complicated plot. There are an awful lot of people who think that writing romance is easy, that anyone can do it. We, of course, know better. Really good writing is a lot of work regardless of the genre.
9. Marcia in OK | August 6th, 2008 at 2:53 pm
HMMMMM . . . wonder if getting to D.C. around the RWA time would be easier than getting to Scotland?
But, if they are even remotely “close” in price, I’d have go go with Scotland. May be my only chance to dream about travel overseas.
Great post OH. Thanks for sharing.
HUGS to all CBs everywhere! {{{{{{Needed or just wanted}}}}}}}}
10. Marcia in OK | August 6th, 2008 at 3:02 pm
Two questions for the Whack at Large:
1) What is the best way to rid an area of slugs-the slimy, trail leaving bug things. (The other slugs I can handle.)
2) Is changing the seal on an older refrigerator manageable? Doable by an individual CB? Or, should I start searching for new fridges at estate sales? (Fridge runs fine,and cools, but seems to cycle to higher temps if door is opened very often. )
11. McB | August 6th, 2008 at 3:31 pm
slugs … go to the garden section of your local hardware store. They sell this stuff - some brands it’s flakes, some it’s granular - it’s called slug-b-gone or something like that. Sprinkle it (a little goes a long way) NOT on your sidewalk or patio but in the general infestion location. The slugs are attracted to it (which is why you don’t want it actually on your sidewalk), eat it, and die. I like to keep a little dirt or mulch handy to throw over the carcass. They shrivel up and disappear very quickly.
12. McB | August 6th, 2008 at 3:33 pm
oh, and I believe the seals are replaceable. Check the company website to see if replacement parts are orderable. You might be able to find it at a hardware store, but I’m not sure.
13. McB | August 6th, 2008 at 3:46 pm
Ya’ll might want to go see what Jenny is up to.
14. GatorPerson | August 6th, 2008 at 3:59 pm
Frig seals are replaceable. I’d suggest hiring it done by a frig maintenance guy. They may use a tool to spread it a tad, then let it slip into place. Moving a seal after it is almost in place is almost impossible.
Slug stuff. READ THE LABEL. Some of that stuff is toxic to pets and humans, if you need to put it where the above might lick and eat. Supposedly (Ha!) they don’t go over sand; therefore a strip of sand is supposed to keep them away. Also, a rope around your sleeping place when you sleep outdoors is supposed to keep snakes from crawling over said rope. I believe that, too. Ha!
Sigh! Whatever would I do at a RWA convergence?
15. CMS | August 6th, 2008 at 4:12 pm
Slugs love beer. Beer kills slugs. Trust a Canadian to know 1,001 uses for beer.
Yoda is fine. Apparently he’s reached sexual maturity and is a tad frustrated. The beak discoloration is part of his moult. I paid a lot of money to learn that my instincts were right,until I freaked myself out. he’s a little subdued after the trip to the vet.
16. Wapakwoman | August 6th, 2008 at 4:56 pm
Ladies and Gentlemen, this is truly how the young thing talks. And thinks. It is so much fun just to try and keep up with her. Love you OH
12 feet under getting last minute paperwork done for Show choir camp next week. My 2 best helpers are going off to college and they are training the new ones. Chaos- and I love it.
I am on my 3rd different antibiotic for an ear infection. Makes me so appreciative of KL and all she does as I lost hearing in that ear for 2 weeks. It was so frustrating and scary. Getting much better.
BCB- where can I read DD’sblog about her travels?
I Am Woman
I am Invincible
I am Tired.
Getting Ready for Olympic Fever. Why yes, I am an Olympic Whore, thank you very much. Just hush and get out of my TV viewing lanes. Dressage and kayaking is on. Yes, I know it is 2 am, they only come on every 4 years…..I can sleep for the next 3.
17. orangehands | August 6th, 2008 at 5:29 pm
Damn that was long. Eh, skim it, wasn’t that great of a post
Love the Olympics. My dad and I watch the main ones we really like, and have the rest on for background noise
Seriously had a great time at RWA though (d’oh). I want to make this an annual occurence.
18. K.L. | August 6th, 2008 at 5:43 pm
CMS, sounds like Yoda needs a lady friend.
Wapak, good luck on the antibiotics. Ear infections can be painfull as well as frustrating. And yes, one of the reasons we are trying to get DD10 another implant is so that hearing is not as exhausting for her. It is much easier to hear out of two ears than one. Try explaining THAT to the insurance company though.
19. RSS | August 6th, 2008 at 5:53 pm
Loved the post OH. You captured the energy and frenzy of it. I’m so glad I got to spend time with you too. You rock.
Glad Yoda is fine CMS.
Pie pan of beer where the slugs are wandering. Dead slugs, no poison. Also if you see them you can sprinkle salt on them. That too will kill them I believe.
(((Wapak))) sorry you’ve been sick and glad you can hear again. Enjoy the Olympics and Show Choir camp. Do you go to that or just plan it?
Finished revising my synopsis thanks to input from my critique group. It’s come along way since I first asked BCB to look at it for me. And you’ll be happy to know I’ve got more emphasis on the suspense. Tomorrow am will do a final revision/polish of the first ten pages and write my letter then print and off in the mail.
20. CMS | August 6th, 2008 at 5:58 pm
Do you need us to go down there and explain things to the insurance company K.L?
Yoda has a lady friend. We know she’s female as she laid eggs. She’s not too interested in him. We’re not positive Yoda is male but he hasn’t laid eggs and tucks his tail instead of lifting it. Plus he onlys says I love you on rare occasions. He does thank me* for kisses
I’ve put him in with Kiki so we’ll see how that goes. They are getting along better than they were last week. I’m happy to report no bloodshed.
Stay healthy, Wapak. MAX! needs a playmate. Plus rumour has it you might be seeing a Canadian. Does Scope realize that will be Olympic dependent? We used to always watch them. This year I have no interest. Me and I are going to have writing Olympics at my house while the parents are in Kentucky. Anyone else want to join us?
21. LtL | August 6th, 2008 at 6:04 pm
LtL stumbles into the B&G, flops onto a futon. OH, ever energetic, hands her a big unsweet tea and dishes about the RWA whack.
What day is this. August? Sheesh!
So many boxes, so few cupboards.
Tired, woozy hugs to all & good thoughts for DHs and kids with upcoming overhauls and those with new jobs and those seeking new jobs. I saw something on the news about OH’s college, but can’t remember now what it was.
Thanks for the tea. Going back to boxland. Still got a fully loaded humongous freezer to deal with.
Hugs all around.
22. LtL | August 6th, 2008 at 6:05 pm
Oh, and salt will kill slugs, but some butter and garlic are a better choice.
With the beer. Cornflakes, too. ZZZZZ snort
23. McB | August 6th, 2008 at 7:22 pm
*McB reaches for the door to the B&G and is brought up short. Okay, she was short to begin with, but what’s this? Oh no, the door won’t open!!! She peers in through the window, trying desperately to catch someone’s attention. Since when did they start locking this place up? Frustrated, she jerks and rattles at the door handle. Also tries pulling on it. Stymied, she steps back to analyze the situation, rolls up her sleeves, spits on both hands (lock me out, will they, huh) grabs the door handle and heaves mightily. Also gives another strong tug on the door, and … *
FINALLY! Sheesh.
24. Lori | August 6th, 2008 at 7:24 pm
OH: I’m not sure, but I think you missed some important details. As punishment, I’ll need a twelve page report including everything you’ve done this summer.
I adore Olympics. It’s been something I make a point of doing with my ma (sometimes by phone). However, this year I don’t have TV. I can get clips on the Internet but it’s not the same. I am going to head to my folk’s house for the weekend, so Ma & I can get some quality Olympic time in. But I’m still sad I can’t really get the whole experience. So sad that I almost signed up for 2 weeks with the TV company just so I could watch them, but when I saw how much the installation fees are, it made that plan seem silly.
Word Press seems to be having issues, and it’s starting to make Blooger look good
25. orangehands | August 6th, 2008 at 8:06 pm
*kicks door repeatedly until let in by the recently admitted MCB*
CMS: Meant to say, glad Yoda is doing better.
Wapa: Oh I hope your doing better. Rest up for next MAX! visit. (BTW: I miss you lots)
I’ll need a twelve page report Oh no, lori’s delusional. I knew she did too much work but now she’s thinking crazy.
Lou: How is DH? How are you?
((HUGS)) to all.
I am so freakin lazy right now. Have done absolutely nothing today.
26. orangehands | August 6th, 2008 at 8:12 pm
*bang bang bang*
ok, there
27. Mary | August 6th, 2008 at 11:32 pm
Um… could someone please explain why OH just shot the hell out of the innocent, defenseless B&G door? And where the gun is now? I want to make sure I have the story right before the police arrive.
And did somebody forget to pay Bryan the rent?
28. BCB | August 7th, 2008 at 6:25 am
Apparently someone poured salt in their beer and spilled it all over the bar — revealing *gasp* that WordPress is in fact a slug.
29. BCB | August 7th, 2008 at 6:32 am
[I wrote this comment last night, tired to post it three times, didn’t work. For some odd reason I decided to save it in Word. Not sure it was worth saving [shrug] but I’ll paste it and try again.]
I distinctly remember firmly closing a door on a post once, long ago and far away, but I’ve never had so much effing trouble opening one. McB, what have you and OH been doing in here? What IS that smell? Is that– never mind. I blame Lori.
Great post, OH. Captures EXACTLY what an RWA conference is all about. Except I was a cashier at the literacy signing when I was there — five hours from start to finish without once getting up out of the chair. Never did get any books signed on that trip. I still haven’t read all the free books I got.
SEP and JAK gave a talk together in Atlanta. Dry sarcastic humour and great insights into writing and publishing. And of course SEP came and spoke to our chapter last year before a signing and she was amazing.
Too tired to say anything else.
Oh yeah. Wapak, I’m not going to give out the blog address of DD’s blog. She’s being waaaay too personal and has pictures of herself and her BF and– and– and MOUNTAINS, for godsakes. Don’t know what she’s thinking. Mountainous scenery revealed for all the world to see. Best to keep that kind of thing in the family.
30. McB | August 7th, 2008 at 8:17 am
If you can’t get in, try the other door. I came in through Safari. Probably a fluke. I think the humid weather has warped the door.
31. McB | August 7th, 2008 at 8:32 am
And now it’s letting in through Explorer again so I guess that was a fluke. It’s probably time we oiled those hinges anyway.
32. CC | August 7th, 2008 at 8:52 am
We had rain last night- not our usual August rain, just enough to settle the dust, but real live honest to gosh rained all night still wet when Chinook and I went for a walk this morning rain- kinda nice
have a photography show coming up with the local photography club- when we started this I said 2 of 3 need to be for sale, one can be NFS- I thought that covered the amount of art we could display- they took it to mean that 2/3 of the art had to be available for purchase- the miscommunication was discovered when artists gave me title lists for thirteen pieces- oops. Think we have it figured out- we’re going to put some of the show in the temp gallery as planned, and some in a portion of the main galleries where the exhibits are being revamped- and we’ll all live happily ever after
and now i’m off to conquer the world, or at least my email
33. McB | August 7th, 2008 at 9:01 am
*sigh* Who scheduled all this construction work? It’s like running an obstacle course trying to get in here. Fortunately OH shot all the glass out of the door and I was able to reach the latch.
CMS - sounds like The Force is already with Yoda, poor little guy. Human males should moult, too. It’s only fair.
LtL - good to see you back if only briefly.
K.L. - Hope the insurance comes through for your DD. I’ve gotten used to hearing with only one ear, but I do have difficulty in certain situations. Plus my ears get congested every time the barometer changes. Sometimes it’s more of a pain for those around me.
34. CC | August 7th, 2008 at 9:06 am
mcb- human males do molt, it’s called male pattern balding
35. me | August 7th, 2008 at 9:09 am
The oil was for the hinges? Whoops. I’ve been using it on the pole. There’s a back door? I couldn’t find any doors this morning. I knocked and knocked all morning but no one heard me.
The Writing Olympics, lol. Do we have medals, CMS? “With a 9.6 from the Canadians, Me receives a silver in the triathalon (writing, editing, and rewriting) while CMS captured the gold medal in character gymnastics. Look at how she makes Nea’s storyline twist and jump! Let’s listen in as they play the national anthem at the awards ceremony.” Oh Canadaaaaa…
36. GatorPerson | August 7th, 2008 at 9:25 am
I’m in, maybe. A brilliant comment last night. All for nought! Or naught! Anybody mentioned this Explorer vs Wordpress problem to Bryan? I didn’t have any trouble with any other blogs.
Let’s see if I can post this.
37. BCB | August 7th, 2008 at 10:45 am
I heard a rumour that we were shut down while those No Sense of Humour Whatsoever HS guys tried to figure out what the heck a CB is and why they were going to invade Scotland in the spring.
Just a rumour, of course.
38. CC | August 7th, 2008 at 11:26 am
I want to know if the WO ‘08 will be offering prizes for the best use of a cliche’ and why are the awards being given gold, silver and bronze? Wouldn’t pen, paper, and ink be better suited for writing?
39. K.L. | August 7th, 2008 at 11:52 am
I’ll keep my fingers crossed, but so far I haven’t had any problems getting into the B&G.
We are just starting the insurance process, and it is usually a long one. Marathon really. So no shovels needed yet. I’ll let you know though.
40. Marcia in OK | August 7th, 2008 at 12:08 pm
Phew! i thought I’d never get back in to the B&G.
Thanks for the slug advice. I think i’ll start with the easy one - beer. . . and then work up . .. if I can’t get rid of them.
I think I’ll hold off on testing the rope thing against snakes while sleeping out of doors. Thanks anyway GP.
CMS - I’ve added your area (and Niagara Falls) on my and DDs Lists of Places to See and Things to Do. Unfortunately, we won’t be getting there for a while. But, it is great fun to think about and dream. Now, with the “new olympics” being added, well, it’ll be moving up on the list.
BCB - we totally understand about you keeping all that scenery to yourself. But, for bob’s sake, your a writer. Write up some comments and let us know how DD is doing.
Did you see Jenny’s blog. What a cutie!
41. RSS | August 7th, 2008 at 12:53 pm
steps carefully over the glass, puts hands on hips and shakes head wearlily. Goodness gracious, what has been going on here? Have those nasty NS types been locking us out again? They should know by now that measly locks and nasty messages are useless against us. We are CB’s Hear Us ROAR.
Be careful slinging those boxes around Ltl. And don’t clean the freezer out too much. I’ve read somewhere that great big freezers are good places to hide a body. Or two. Better to keep it full and not give anyone any ideas.
I wish I could come and do a writing marathon CMS but I’m starting to worry that if I’m gone too much the guys will figure out they get along just fine without me. Can I participate long distance?
And give my word count for the day in the evenings? I need to get cracking if I’m going to meet my goal for the summer.
42. RSS | August 7th, 2008 at 12:58 pm
Wearlily: definition: 1) a large sweet smelling flower worn over the hair when you are having a bad hair day. 2) a misspelling of wearily by someone still stunned by the information and people at RWA Nats
43. LtL | August 7th, 2008 at 1:43 pm
Oh, good! You’re back! I just kept finding an empty space here, and I thought maybe you had all gone South of Oz without leaving breadcrumbs, or at least chocolate smears. But here you are, so all is well with the TOTW plans. Couldn’t do it short-handed, or with just a cryptic sign where TOTW Headquarters ought to be. So, excellent.
RSS–down here we don’t wear sweet smelling flowers unless we want to attract insects, but I love the idea of a floral headcovering for those days when the crowning glory isn’t all that glorious. Maybe bad hair is something other people worry about more than I do, though. Kind of a luxury, being able to worry about something like a hairstyle.
Threw out three cans of hair spray from Mom’s bathroom. Nobody could remember who had bought it, and I know it’s been on her counter for YEARS but she never would let me throw it out because she was afraid the rightful owner would come looking for it. I love throwing things out. I’m a regular Expired Stuff Bouncer. Yippee.
I hope all works out okay for KL’s daughter (that is interesting stuff about the brain and children) and Lou’s DH and Wapak and everybody.
I’d like to get insurance for our kids, but it makes my head ache and my eyes glaze over. Used to have it, Blue Cross, but it didn’t pay for anything! Not even the — what do you call those things at the back of your throat that grow like Topsy till nobody can understand what you say and those other things that make you breath through your mouth? Anyway, the bill was over $5K, and Blue Cross paid $0. Hate them. Hate them. $300/mo down the drain.
Got to go feed people.
Glad to see the B&G back where it belongs. I thought I broke it.
44. Lou | August 7th, 2008 at 1:58 pm
Good Grief!!! WordPress and Explorer are really having a battle!! I finally got in after crawling throught a back window that hadn’t been locked, but the blog doesn’t look the same. It’s all squished over to the right with much open space at the left. Hummm… Seems like the same trouble we had last weekend. I haven’t tried Jenny’s site yet to see if I can get in there.
Hi LtL!! Do not work yourself to death, woman. A little at a time will get things done!!
I used to be an Olympic whore also, Wapak. But for some reason, I just can’t get all that interested this year (much like CMS). Although I was very moved by the story of one of our track stars. He’s the one that going to carry the flag in the opening ceremonies. He just became a US citizen 18 months ago. He’s originally from the Sudan and was one of the “lost boys” in a refugee camp. He was in that camp for 10 years and kept from feeling hungry (his words) by running and playing soccer. He somehow made it to the US (I think sponsored by a church group), did well in high school and college track, became a citizen, and is now going to the Olympics. What a story!!! It was on the Today show this morning.
OH - DH is tired and feeling sick most of the time - plus is sick and tired of feeling sick and tired. It’s a vicious cycle - take meds to keep the disease at bay but the meds have really bad side effects. And he’s feeling guilty about not being able to take care of things around the house and yard - and nothing I say seems to ease that.
I’m hanging in there. I just feel bad that he’s having to go through this. Poor guy…
45. Lori | August 7th, 2008 at 2:12 pm
Have to share this quick:
Just now two guys holding guns got out of an unmarked car with flashing lights… two burley looking guys got out of a black SUV… seem to be helping unmarked car guys. A state patrol car just pulled up… couple guys in uniform. Oh, and here comes the local Police Chief (I have staff meeting with him about once a month). I think I’ll wave at him.
Anyway… All these guys surrounding 4 people who are now all standing with their hands on a green SUV…. oh. Nope make that three people and one guy now in handcuffs in the back of the unmarked car.
I really am curious, but I gotta get back to work and I really don’t want to get to know my neighbors that well… so if y’all could make up some story for me, that’d be just great.
46. K.L. | August 7th, 2008 at 3:05 pm
For those thinking of attending the Scotland Whack, please see the OT post.
47. me | August 7th, 2008 at 3:24 pm
Lori: Brazen donut thieves caught! Local, State, and Federal police breathe a sigh of relief. Film at 11.
48. eidlhe | August 7th, 2008 at 3:52 pm
(((Wapak))) Ear infections are the pits.
JenB-how goes the husbandless time or is he back now?
(((Lou)))
K.L-sympathies on the insurance stuff and good luck.
LtL-Have fun pitching stuff…when you’re done…all expenses paid trip to CO where you can do my house? Tonsils and adenoids and OUCH…ins didn’t pay anything? Something wrong with our insurance system today…but I’m going to stay off my soapbox or you all would be here a long time reading.
I keep forgetting the Olympics are going to be on. Too busy trying to get stuff together for the kids heading back to school. They started today. 88 days to Winter Break (aka Christmas Vacation) I have open house for the middle school tonight, high school on Tues and I skipped the elementary version (last night) since I’ve already met the teacher when she had my oldest.
49. McB | August 7th, 2008 at 4:05 pm
Lori, not to worry. It’s just BCB. She forced the folks in the green SUV to drive at a very high speed in what she thought was the general direction of Peru. Unfortunately she only knows how to get to Minnesota. The Staties were alerted when a citizen phoned in a report (very nicely, being Minnesotan) that some lady was hanging out the window, shouting “Howdy, ya’ll” (too many years spent living in the south) “Does anybody around here habla English?”
Film at eleven.
50. BCB | August 7th, 2008 at 7:16 pm
McB, you are such a liar. It was just supposed to be a quick trip, up and back in two days, okay, maybe three. We were just going to check on Lori and make sure those Readers of the Future hadn’t done too much damage and that she hadn’t gotten rug burn, flinging herself against the carpeted walls in an overwrought state of overwroughtedness.
But McB insisted she be allowed to drive. Would NOT stop pestering me about it. So we pulled over at a rest stop and I gave her the keys. And she took off without me, yelling something about there being more uniforms for her if I weren’t around. So a couple hours later I get a call from Ranger (because we’re tight, Ranger and I, really) and he tells me they’ve teamed up with local law to rescue McB from a couple guys she picked up on the way. [sigh] He and his men were in the black SUV. Of course. What are you gonna do? Well, the obvious answer is, “Never let McB drive.”
No film. Ranger destroyed it.
51. BCB | August 7th, 2008 at 7:19 pm
We’ll see whether WordPress is playing nice tonight and will let me post two comments in a row.
Here, Marcia, this is for you. Since you demanded so nicely. [grin] In one of her posts, DD was telling about the hostel in Cusco (where they stayed before the hike). She says it better than I could possibly re-tell it:
Of course, she could have written it in pig-latin and I would think it was the most brilliant thing ever written. That’s my job. Then in the next post, the one about the trek to Machu Picchu, she says:
I’m so proud of her. I emailed her to ask whether it would be okay to put a few excerpts from her posts on my blog. I’ll let you know what she says. I’m sure her answer will contain some version of, “Mom, you are so weird.” Very perceptive, that child of mine.
52. McB | August 7th, 2008 at 7:20 pm
Okay, does anyone here acutally believe the BCB would ever let me drive? Hmmmm?
53. McB | August 7th, 2008 at 7:23 pm
So did she say yes?
54. McB | August 7th, 2008 at 7:27 pm
And if you believe that, would anyone who has ever met me believe that BCB would let me drive an SUV, seeing as how I’m too short to see out the window and work the pedals at the same time?
hoisted on her own petard.
55. BCB | August 7th, 2008 at 7:29 pm
Well, she hasn’t answered yet. I lifted those quotes without permission. Hey, I AM the mom. It might be a few days before she has time to visit an internet cafe and read/reply to email.
And McB, everyone knows how stubborn and opinionated you are. Especially when it comes to men in uniform. It wasn’t really a matter of “letting” you do anything. It was a question of survival. I think they all know what really happened.
[BTW, Ranger says he’ll accept cash or personal check for repayment of the bail money, and you’re welcome. What a guy.]
56. MCB | August 7th, 2008 at 7:43 pm
I’m a cupcake kinda gal. And you have “rest stop” and “watering trough” confused. How far did you make those cowboys chase you before you gave the horse back?
GP - mom just finished #3 of the Gabaldon books and loves them.
57. GatorPerson | August 7th, 2008 at 8:01 pm
Goody gum drops on JD’s reading Gabaldon. #3 ranks high on my list of favs. Also #4.
Here’s what I KNOW about that trip. McB sits on BCB’s lap and steers. BCB does the pedals. Of course, McB’s head is in the way of BCB’s view, but that doesn’t slow them down a bit. ‘Course that Ranger is hoping for a manage la trey. Kinky!
WordPress is sure getting cantakerous. Ya know those 4 evil aligned moons? They’re still evilly aligned. And yet my blood pressure wasn’t very elevated at blood-letting time. Maybe it’s getting used to the anguish and settling down. And I can’t spell worth squat tonight. Maybe that’s where the stress is oozing out. Pretty please, WordPress, let me post this.
58. MCB | August 7th, 2008 at 8:42 pm
while BCB was riding across the open plain, I took off looking for an ATM. Horse thieving is serious business and I wasn’t sure the sheriff in them there parts accepted PayPal. I heard her holler “rope them dogies” and I really didn’t want to know what that was about.
59. glamour-geek | August 7th, 2008 at 10:57 pm
Briefly had trouble getting in through Firefox today (worked on 3rd attempt). Hi! *waves*
Long hours at work, which I don’t love, but there you go. That’s why they pay me the big bucks. I am Wiped Out. Trying to take in a lot of information, make some key projects happen by 9/15 and meeting a lot of people 90% of whom I cannot remember the names of 30 seconds after they’ve told me.
However, if I’m Very Successful with the primary project, I will rapidly get a promotion (sez my boss). If I’m moderately successful or just ok, nothing bad will happen, but I’d like the title change. I really, really appreciate that someone’s actually given me a goal to work towards and a pre-determined reward if it goes well. That’s very different from my last job and I work well to deadlines and set, achievable goals that I know in advance (instead of those mysterious ones in some bosses’ heads that they never tell you about so you have to guess what they want). The hours may be long, but they are SO much more sane than at my last job and there is room for debate, dissent and discussion on issues with everyone contributing their take. Very refreshing. And everyone has been very welcoming and told me their really pleased I’ve joined and I’ll be working on my projects.
The commutes in have been fine, but I stayed in San Francisco with beau last night and a co-worker told me this morning was a bear, so maybe it was just beginners’ luck. The commutes out have mostly been long after traffic has dissipated, so no trouble. Tonight’s was ugly, though. I suspect that will end up being what both ways normally are like after everyone is back from their summer vacations.
All about the job, which you probably don’t care that much about!
But it’s hard to stay on top of the subjects that fly by if you can only get here every other day or so.
Neat to hear your perspective on RWA, OH!
Sleepy…. I should do some (additional) work, after all, I was only there 8:45am-7pm today (yipes!), or do my mending, but I think perhaps I will take a bath and go to bed.
60. cbpen | August 8th, 2008 at 2:22 am
Yikes! Whew! Pant. Gasp. Wheeze. I had to come in through a tunnel in the basement. I needed a stunt double. That basement is ugly.
Guess what I saw today? A woman wearing jeans, T-shirt and 5 inch Lip Glossy Pink stillettos ON THE PLAYGROUND. How did she walk through that deep pea gravel without killing herself and/or a few toddlers??? Of course, A! loved the shoes. Anything pink….
Well, now I need a big ;pitcher of something…not beer, leave it for the slugs…a place to lounge and someone to take care of me and say “poor Pen” now and then because of the horrors I’ve lived through getting in here tonite.
61. BCB | August 8th, 2008 at 7:06 am
McB, have I taught you nothing? If you give the horse back, they stop chasing you.
G-G, glad the job is demanding something from you. Good jobs do that.
Poor Pen. Hold still, let me get that spiderweb out of your hair. There, that’s better.
TGIF! Very busy weekend ahead. Gonna need a nap before it’s over, I suspect.
62. McB | August 8th, 2008 at 8:19 am
Aha! so that was your plan. Let them chase you until you catch them.
CBPen - poor baby. We hereby award you the Order of the Sullied Cellar. It’s a completely empty title with no authority, rank or monetary value; but it looks good on a resume.
HAPPY FRIDAY, EVERYONE.
63. Mary | August 8th, 2008 at 9:40 am
***We interrupt this blog for a brief announcement***
Today is an important holiday. Or tonight is, anyway. Yes, it’s
Sneak some zucchini onto your neighbor’s porch night!
http://www.holidayinsights.com/moreholidays/August/sneakzucchini.htm
64. Marcia in OK | August 8th, 2008 at 10:37 am
BCB - Thank you very much! I love visiting places via the written word. And that bit about the comforts of home, well, that could be research for anyone considering setting a book/characters in that part of the world. You’ve done a public service by lift . . . uh sharing the excerpts. Tell DD thanks.
GG - glad to hear the new job is challenging you and catching your interest from the first. Don’t worry about leaving long comments if you are pushed for time. Snippets are fine, we CBs get that life gets nuts sometimes. What we wouldn’t like at all would be if you dropped of the planet again and we had to wonder if you got lost on your commute somewhere.
TGIF! I brought donuts for everyone. The good kind, and I’ve removed all the fat and calories so you can enjoy without any guilt - not that I expected you to feel any anyway.
Just a few hours til the weekend!
65. Lori | August 8th, 2008 at 10:40 am
Wow. It really is tricky to find your way in here now a days. Poor Pen. You’ve got a little smutz right there. Um, next time you might want to try the newly renovated tunnel to the left. Brings you into the well lit and ventilated area of the basement that you clearly missed the first time.
Thanks for the stories, but could you make that two trips up in the last two weeks?
A co-worker told me she saw a whole bunch of cops outside my place two weeks ago too, and I thought oh good, that’ll help me get to sleep tonight.
Have to wait for the Monday or Thursday paper next week to see if they made up a story for me too. I’d like another one involving donuts. They’re a happy food.
66. K.L. | August 8th, 2008 at 10:49 am
This is also my DS’s 18th birthday! Yes folks, 08-08-08 is his 18th birthday. Many 8s going on today. The party will be tomorrow
And just to keep me busy, my mom and step mom are both in the hospital. Mom is having that wire in her heart relocated. She will go home tomorrow. My step mom had knee surgery a couple of days ago and should be heading home today or tomorrow.
67. eidlhe | August 8th, 2008 at 11:07 am
K.L -Happy birthday to your D.S! Get well wishes for your mom and step mom
68. Diane (TT) | August 8th, 2008 at 2:03 pm
Well, I am, clearly, fortunate that you all had access problems! No time to say much (errands), but all my sympathies, Louisa, on the box issue - I'’m completely over-run by them myself. To the point where the entire patio is full of kitchen boxes, because there’s no room for them in the kitchen!
I think I got all my stuff, but if I didn’t, there’s no more room anyway. We’ll see how it goes into bookcases and closets - and the basement. Mine, not the B&G’s, but mine has a cobweb or two, too.
69. RSS | August 8th, 2008 at 2:07 pm
Ditto K.L.
(((Lou and DH)))
Poor CBPen. Watch out for the steam pipes the next time you go down there. They almost cooked me when I tried getting through last night.
Lori–I remember you said something about maybe looking for another place to live. Now might be a good time to do that. Before the SWAT team comes in.
The submission is off. Cross your fingers.
70. McB | August 8th, 2008 at 2:26 pm
“The submission is off.”
Yay! Of course, now we have to find something else to nag you about. Oh, I know.
BOOK DONE YET?
71. cbpen | August 8th, 2008 at 2:49 pm
RSS: Hooray!! How great a feeling is that?!
I got in through the front door today.
BCB: Loved the excerpts (no matter how they were obtained)…very interesting.
GG: Glad the job is going well…maybe it will calm down after you get into their rhythm.
My friend got a job. One interview. sigh. I hate to admit it but I am a teensy bit jealous….
72. McB | August 8th, 2008 at 3:10 pm
cbpen - The trick is to impress prospective employers with your uniqueness. Did you put that Order of the Sullied Cellar thing on your resume?
73. Scope Dope CherryBomb | August 8th, 2008 at 4:00 pm
Look people I said I was going away for two weeks not leaving the Bar and Grill forever. You didn’t have to change the locks on me. I am devastated. I had to find this nice man in uniform who was looking for Mcb and Bcb to pry the door open for me. Oh Mcb, Bcb, there is someone here looking for you. Right this way officer I think I see them sitting over…Hey you two come back.
K.L. all the best for your moms. Wish DS happy birthday.
Wapak-I share your pain…literally. I have had an earache for two weeks and am on the second round of antibiotics. They haven’t worked yet either. I am also an Olympics whore. I forgot they were on the next two weeks. Canada gives continuous coverage but I don’t know what American networks do. I would like to catch some of them while DH is sleeping or swimming or whatever DHs do on holidays. It has been so many years since we have had a holiday together I have forgotten.
glad all went well at the new job GG. Hope it stays so.
eidlhe-how is your DH? BTW I am taking CMS’ cell phone on our trip to Kentucky ’cause it works in the States. Please Do Not Call Me at 6.a.m. to wake me for breakfast. I plan to sleep late.
74. GatorPerson | August 8th, 2008 at 8:05 pm
I squirt stuff in Mr. Darcy’s ears. Shall I squirt stuff in your ears, too? And, yes, Scope, they broadcast the Olympics in the US, too. Like 1800 hours of it. Now how is that possible? The Olympics don’t last that long. Sigh. I guess we’ll get some videos of the smog.
“The submission is off.” That gave me a start. Like calling off the mission? But, no, the submission has been SENT off. Good going, RSS.
One of the themes of my hmm, something. Core? Life philosophy? How easy it is to miscommunicate; how hard it is to communicate correctly.
Uh, McB? Get off that officer’s lap. It’s not seemly. Well, he doesn’t seem to mind. He’s kinda smiling. Well, don’t get off, then.
75. Kay T | August 8th, 2008 at 8:05 pm
Well, I was brilliant when I tried to post yesterday. Today, not so much… I couldn’t find the tunnel, then forgot what I was going to say. Probably something about the RWA and family and stuff like that. So I will try to post this just to say hi. Not even trying to be brilliant.
76. Mary | August 8th, 2008 at 9:43 pm
KayT spake thusly:
… Not even trying to be brilliant…
And yet, she still shines.
77. orangehands | August 9th, 2008 at 12:53 am
*sweeps glass up and props door open* It may be because of my long post, and if so, I’m sorry
BCB: Your DD rocks. Hope you get some more words from her
Watching the Olympics as I type this (and caught up). Huge fan. They did an excellent job with the opening ceremonies. Athletes are looking good, with some great outfits so far. (Waaaay too many commercials.) I knew about the Lost Boy and he got a huge welcoming reception.
KL: Happy B-Day to DS and hope mom and stepmom get better soon.
RSS: YaY! I can’t wait to see that on bookshelves.
Poor CBPen.
GG: Glad the job is turning into what you like/want.
Huge inner fight among my main circle of friends in LA. The “in the wrong” one is living with me* right now. The circle may be broken but at the moment it may be for the best.
78. orangehands | August 9th, 2008 at 12:54 am
Lou: I’m sorry it’s not going well with DH. ((HUGS))
79. orangehands | August 9th, 2008 at 2:28 am
Two things:
1. Wordle-> not working on my laptop but it looks like it can be helpful to writers/bored people: http://wordle.net/
ATTENTION
2. IBC: Inflammatory Breast Cancer (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3s9_UrVtc6c)
Symptoms: *rapid increase of breast size * redness *skin hot to the touch *persistent itching * thickening of breast tissue
80. jenb | August 9th, 2008 at 8:00 am
eidlhe,CC, are you all doing okay??
They(TV) showed lots of very bad weather you all seem to be attracting.
Not you but your beautiful state.
81. McB | August 9th, 2008 at 8:05 am
I played with Worldle a little this morning. Pretty cool. I used the URL for my blog and it was kind of cool to see how it played out. Makes me think of ink blots and word association tests as it does play up where your thoughts are.
We’re still under 100 so unless anyone is in a hurry I’ll probably wait until tomorrow to put up my post.
82. GatorPerson | August 9th, 2008 at 9:45 am
Remember that I asked about Stephenie Meyer a good while back? Someone said she’s writing YA novels. Well! In yesterday’s Wall Street Journal she is listed as best selling author in places 1, 2, 4, 6, and 13. She must be giggling all the way to the bank. They get publisher bonuses when they’re in the top places. She’s been listed 1 or more times for weeks.
On the same topic, remember when Dan Brown did the Da Vinci Code? I knew that Jack Whyte had been working on a series also about the Knights Templar for a few years when the Brown novel came out and got him a million gazillion dollars. Then Whyte’s 1st came out a year or so ago, and now I’m reading the 2nd. Sadly, he’s not getting much press. These are rich in detail, action, and character development. I guess people are assuming he’s trying to tag along on Brown’s $ success. Just seriously irritates me that the better novelist doesn’t get recognized. To the victor belongs the spoils. Or caveat emptor. Or carpe diem. Or something.
83. glamour-geek | August 9th, 2008 at 10:46 am
MinOK: Can’t possibly get lost on my commute. All I have to do is FOLLOW EVERYONE ELSE.
If it was bad getting out of SF yesterday, it looked like everyone and her aunt wanted to get into SF yesterday as well, and the traffic going the other way was backed up the way it only gets once in a very nasty while. I was just thinking “And if only we could have all just swapped places” since there were people wanting to both get into and get out of the city.
Now where’s that teleporter they said we’d get with the new space age? I mean, didn’t Star Trek promise us a teleporter? Beam me to work, Scotty!
CBPen: I”m borrowing the wand and anointing you. You’re up next for getting a great job. No, it’s not wrong to be jealous of the person who got the job on the first interview. I was feeling frustrated that way myself, because I went on SO many interviews this round. But the right job is looking for you and the glitter from the wand will help it find you. Good Luck!
So the most important meeting of my world this week was at 4pm yesterday and did NOT go well, though not my fault, the vendor’s fault entirely. Still I will be Fixing Things as best I can on Monday. Feh. These things happen.
Beau and I have “date night” tonight. We alternate each month taking the other on a “dress up” date, usually not telling the other which restaurant we’re going to for our lovely dinner. This time beau knows where we’re going because we’re going up to Napa to make a day of it (if we can get all the chores and errands done first). We’d suspended these while I was laid off and during the holidays because we had s much travel and because I didn’t know when money would be forthcoming again, so it’s nice to be able to take him out to thank him for being such a rock star while I was unemployed.
ANother long comment. I need to stop this trend.
84. Louis | August 9th, 2008 at 11:05 am
Last couple of times I tried to comment…dear Word Press said no, no we don’t know you.
Trip down the California coast yesterday…in the evening those off-shore drilling platforms looked mighty pretty with their sparling lights in the haze.
(((HUGS))) to those that need one.
85. McB | August 9th, 2008 at 1:02 pm
Ah, Louis. So glad you could enjoy the view. You know, some people want to stop all that off shore drilling and bring back natural scenery. Idiots.
Da Vinci Code What made Brown’s book take off was the action. The accuracy of the historical facts, or lack thereof, was irrelevant to the story. People got so worked up about that book and completely missed the point. It was an adventure story, akin, I thought, to the old swashbuckling pirate flicks of yore - sheer entertainment. It was one long chase scene; the historical mystery was just a plot device, an excuse. It’s not really so different from the movie National Treasure which was only thinly spun from history but got a lot less grief because it was a Disney flick so nobody expected anything other than a fun, family friendly adventure.
On the one hand, Brown fed the frenzy himself by claiming the book was more than it really was. On the other hand, the frenzy got his name and the title out there and had people buying his book who normally wouldn’t have because the masses are usually intimidated by anything that smacks of academia. Most people just want a good story and will skip over the details. So, yeah, he did carpe diem. But you know, just maybe a few more people bought and read Whyte’s book than would have otherwise because Brown made the subject sound interesting. Just a thought. Okay a long thought.
And it was a long thought because I’m in a mood today brought about partly because people have been annoying lately, and partly because I haven’t had the patience for it. I was ready to spit nails this morning, reliving conversations in my head the way you do - or at least I do - and decide to fill my head with a different conversation instead. Had a nice chat with Dee who is enjoying a rare weekend off and relaxing with her family. She promised to wield a shovel in my honor if people didn’t get over themselves and stop bugging me. CherryBombs - I love you guys.
86. GatorPerson | August 9th, 2008 at 3:28 pm
McB, do the GeekMobileGoddess and I need to get shovels out of the shed and head up your way?
Another point, where Fate or readers intervened…. Whyte had finished, he thought, his Camulod series with Arthur being crowned. “NoNoNo,” his readers said. “We want it to go to the conclusion.” So, he had to stop writing his Templar series and go back. One novel on Lancelot, Clothar the Frank, then the final BIG one, The Eagle. Meanwhile back at the ranch, Brown carped the diem.
There are two (2) novels I love that I can’t finish. Whyte’s Eagle, and Dorothy Dunnett’s King Hereafter, about a possible real person that Willy’s Macbeth is modeled after. I am so loathe to read books that I know won’t end HEA.
Anyhoo, I heartily recommend both writers. I’m in the 2nd Templar, and am 1/3 way through a reread of the 4th of 8 of Dunnett’s Niccolo series, which does end HEA in #8.
Louis, these have a lot of sweat and metal and horse stuff in them. You liked a couple of my recommendations. Not to exclude the females who also groove on sweat and metal and horse stuff and 12th and 14th centuries.
I better go clean off a couple of shovels, just in case.
87. RSS | August 9th, 2008 at 3:30 pm
I’ll come running with my shovel too McB. On second thought, I’ll drive up with it if you need it because if I ran the people bugging you would have died of old age before I got it there. Glad you got a chance to chat with Dee.
Your job is coming CBPen. Hang in there and don’t give up.
Hope you and Beau have fun in Napa GG.
And Scope you have fun in Kentucky.
Just finished Sleeping with Ward Cleaver which is by Jenny Gardiner. Funny, funny, funny and the story develops and the characters have a fantastic arc. Loved it. She’s in the Virginia Romance Writers and I met her at Nationals. It was one of those books I bought to support another Virginia writer and I’m so glad I did because I loved it. Did I say that?
No McB the book is not done yet but I’m working on it. Goal. Finish the revisions by …..I want to get it done by the end of August but don’t know if I can do that so I’m going to say by Sept. 15th. It will be done if it kills me. So there.
Trying to decide whether or not to go to NJ this year. My critique partners are going but I can’t imagine being there without the Cherry Bombs. I should go to pitch though. Sorry guys using you as a sounding board.
88. RSS | August 9th, 2008 at 4:09 pm
Twice now I’ve forgotten to say how much I’ve enjoyed the words and pictures from your DD’s trip that you have shared BCB. She has a way with words just like her mom.
KT–hope your chaos is coming into order and your niece is doing better
Posted pictures from the San Francisco meet on my blog.
89. Louis | August 9th, 2008 at 4:15 pm
GP…
I think Dorothy Dunnett’s mystery series are great. Have her other books on my TBR pile…just haven’t got to them yet….they are on my list.
You make good reccommendations!
90. McB | August 9th, 2008 at 8:05 pm
Feeling a bit more mellow now. Dinner and drinks with friends can do that. But thanks much for all the shovel offers. It’s just hard to remember, sometimes, that people can’t always help being twits. It’s like genetic or something.
Oh, and Mom is working her way through the Donati historicals, too. I haven’t attempted them yet because my head just isn’t in the right place for epics. If you aren’t in the right mood for a book it can affect whether you enjoy it and that’s just a shame. Gotta cleanse the pallet before I tackle them.
Speaking of Mom, she had read Water for Elephants a while back and still raves so I picked that up recently, but haven’t tried it myself yet. However, it has the Mom Seal Of Approval if anyone else has been thinking of trying it.
My library has a shelf labeled “books you meant to read/thought you had read, but never did.” While passing by it on the last trip I spotted Inherit The Wind. When I realized that I couldn’t remember if I had read it in school or if it was one of those that I’d heard so much about I just thought I’d read, I decided to check it out. Good decision. Very fast read, but some really good bits that are still relevant on many levels. Sneaky in some ways.
91. btuda | August 9th, 2008 at 9:14 pm
Just got caught up on the comments. Now I’m pooped.
CMS: Congrats. You now have a teenager? Be prepared for Yoda to be sleeping in to all decent hours of the day and playing video games all night. Thank Bob school starts for DSS next week. heh heh heh.
Oh sorry. Was that too evil of a laugh?
I watched three hours of volleyball today. I never watch volley ball on tv. But since it’s the OLYMPICS …
That reminds me … love the movie Cool Runnings, loosely based on the Jamacan bobsled team. I know. Wrong Olympics. It’s summer, I know.
I may be inspired to take part in the writing Olympics. Since I have a bit of spare time and all. Then I remember how rusty I am. I am doing well to compose a legible grocery list. It may not be pretty, but I may give it a whirl. Namely because I miss writing!
Job update: got my first rejection two weeks ago, but now I’ve got my first interview next weekend. It’s with the district manager with the candle store. Wish me luck!
Gotta catch some z’s for the Halloween party at the candle store tomorrow morning. Welcome to retail - 2 months ahead of the actual season. I did see cake though, so I’m excited. Maybe even cupcakes. Mmm.
92. BCB | August 9th, 2008 at 10:46 pm
Exhausting day. Decided to unwind by watching a movie I hadn’t seen. Figured it would be two hours of mindless something or other. Wrong. Three and a half hours of the director’s cut version. Why don’t they tell you these things? [sigh] And endless commercials. Never mind a quick break for a snack, you could have made an entire meal during these things. All it did was remind me why I’d rather read a book.
My brain is too full of stupid movie to read the comments. Though I must say, Brad Pitt has rather nice forearms.
‘night all.
93. cbpen | August 10th, 2008 at 12:22 am
Thanks for all the good thoughts. The evil jealousy genie has left the building. It was just a twinge, because I do remember on her last job hunt she only found a couple of part time jobs for TWO years…. And I was never jealous of the job, it’s sales. I am definitely not good at sales, but she is wonderful at it.
RSS: I want to read your book. So hurry….
Liked hearing all of the book recommendations. I have been rereading a bunch of things. And getting on with my TBR.
Guess that’s all for tonite. Hope everyone had a good day today and another one tomorrow…oh heck, week, month, year…..
94. Scope Dope CherryBomb | August 10th, 2008 at 5:15 am
CMS, her brother and her nephew left about an hour ago to head for Watkins Glen, NY to watch a NASCAR race. They were all excited. I hope it doesn’t rain because only CMS can go back tomorrow. The tickets were pricey because she got them the best seats.
I guess I must have been a little excited for them as I have been awake since 4:30 a.m. heard the first feet hit the floor upstairs…oh wait that may have been KY’s.
I am all excited about leaving tomorrow. I have to do laundry today and pack. My little DGD is with us for the day so we are going to wash the van and my medical scooter then load it into the car. Then we have to watch NASCAR this morning as CMS et al were on last year and we didn’t see them waving frantically. So this year we will watch.
I want to watch the Olympics since I’m up and CBC is on with them but little DGD is sleeping on my couch. I’m sure it would wake her up. Guess I’ll just have to hang out here until someone else gets up. Pass the egg mcmuffins please. No maybe I’ll have a bran muffin with raisins. Love them. And Mcb please share the coffee.
Mcb-have my shovel ready any time you need it. I could get to DC too.
95. me | August 10th, 2008 at 9:49 am
Halloween party? Already? Are you dressing up, btuda? Good luck with the interview.
Have a safe trip Scope (and CMS).
Fingers and toes crossed on the submission RSS! *thump* OK it’s hard to walk with crossed toes, so let’s just go with fingers.
Funny story: went to dinner with a friend last night and our waiter was superhyperspasticboy to the point of being slightly annoying. My friend made the comment “You remind me of my border collie” and the poor guy was flabbergasted for a second. I had to tell him, no, she’s not calling you a dog and we had to verify that Louie, the border collie, is indeed cute. The manager somehow overheard and spent the rest of the night calling him Louie.
Okay, maybe you had to be there. But we were laughing so hard our sides hurt.
96. RSS | August 10th, 2008 at 11:35 am
LOL Me. It’s funny on the repeat too.
Good luck with the interview and party Btuda. Halloween? Please, I’m not even ready for school to start yet. Our school’s don’t start ’til after Labor Day thank goodness.
Glad you had fun last night McB. Hope this is a better week.
OH–how are things on the visiting friend front? Sorry your LA circle had a blow-up.
CMS hope you’re having fun at the race.
Scope have a great vacation.
97. BCB | August 10th, 2008 at 12:41 pm
I have some news to share, but I’m going to wait until McB posts, because sometimes people can’t see comments way up here in the 90’s and I want everyone to see it. So there.
I was going to write a whole post about it, but that would be rude. Because McB is about to post. Any. Minute. Now. Really.
I’ll just go wait over here in the corner.
Patiently.
No, I’m not tapping my foot. Why do you ask?
I’m zen-like with patience.
Barely moving at all.
Yep.
Hardly even breathing.
98. Diane (TT) | August 10th, 2008 at 1:45 pm
Well, now I, too, will have to impatiently await McB’s post, because BCB has me all anxious to hear her news! More foot tapping.
Yesterday’s first Farmer’s Market in the new town was a happy thing (except that I may have bought too many baked goods and not enough vegetables), my attempt to get my office set up failed, as my card access didn’t work, I spent $100+ at Wal -Mart buying CFLs for all the fixtures and an over-the-toilet shelf system, since I have very little bathroom counter space. Also, there are no drawers in the kitchen large enough for the flatware tray! But the basement will save my life, I’m sure.
This morning’s church was so-so. It was a union service with the Methodists, but the PCUSA pastors preached/ led. Nothing wrong with ‘em, but I went down to the fellowship time and no one spoke to me. It wasn’t very fellowship-y, but maybe that was mostly because no one knew if they were supposed to know who you were, because you could’ve belonged to either congregation?
I’ve got my public library card, so that’s next, then to Kroger for a few things. All on foot! Aside from the combined trip to take stuff to my office and Wal-Mart, I haven’t driven anywhere. Very cool.
BTW, I bought the new Susan Andersen at Wal-Mart. It wasn’t at Kroger, I’m pretty sure, but they did have FIVE Jennifer Crusie titles. Hooray for Ohio!
99. RSS | August 10th, 2008 at 2:00 pm
Diane glad to hear you’re getting moved in. Sorry you couldn’t get your office set up early. Sounds like a great town where you can walk so many places.
100. RSS | August 10th, 2008 at 2:48 pm
The suspense is killing me BCB. And the sound of tapping feet is echoing in this almost empty room. Everyone must be out enjoying the sunshine. I don’t know if I’ve ever seen the place this quiet.
Gotta go take DH to the airport.
101. BCB | August 10th, 2008 at 2:48 pm
Still no McB? She’s doing this on purpose.
And it’s not MY news, in the sense that it’s about me or anything. Just mine to share.
Eventually.
Maybe once it gets dark here on the east coast.
102. Mary | August 10th, 2008 at 3:08 pm
Release the hounds! Let McB be sought out and brought forth.
Yes, Mr. Darcy can go too. He’ll show McB photographs until she agrees to post.
The Bulwer-Lytton contest results came out the other day:
http://www.sjsu.edu/faculty/scott.rice/blfc2008.htm
The dishonorable mentions are fun to read too. My favorite so far:
She had the kind of body that made a man want to have sex with her.
103. jenb | August 10th, 2008 at 3:26 pm
Still no McB.
Is a search party being formed?
Worry is beginning to set in.
Oh where, oh where are you dear McB?
104. glamour-geek | August 10th, 2008 at 4:27 pm
I am told that folks at the new job are Very Serious about their Halloween costumes, there’s a competition, and people go seriously all out. I, however, like watching but am not much of a participant. Though I had a funny but not work-intensive idea after Halloween last year and have stored it in my brain for this year. I won’t win (I don’t care anywhere near enough), but it will hopefully be something. If you have costume ideas, please pass them along.
The runner-up last year told me she went as the “devil with the blue dress”.
Napa was lovely, though we slept in (beau more than myself, I got up and hemmed my trousers while I watched women’s weightlifting and some volleyball on the Olympics) and got a late start. but sunny, warm, etc. Very nice for a stroll. Unfortunately, we strolled a little too slowly and missed getting to the one shop we especially wanted to browse in. Oh well, will have to go up again sometime soon. We did see some nice stuff in some of the art galleries, which was fun.
And now, back to my regularly scheduled chores before the next work week starts!
105. jenb | August 10th, 2008 at 4:40 pm
I’m still looking high and low for McB.
Oh, where is she?
Now I am worried. Please let us know you are fine.
106. theresa | August 10th, 2008 at 5:04 pm
Darn. It’s bed time so I’m not going to be able to find out BCB’s news until tomorrow. *pout*
Scope! Have a terrific vacation in Kentucky! I know that I’ve driven through Kentucky a number of times on family vacations, but I don’t know that we ever actually stopped there. Pics of horses, please!
CMS - Have fun at Nascar!
RSS - Crossing all my fingers and toes for good reception of your book!
Diane - Glad that the move seemed to have gone well! (Because moving - Ugh.)
GG - I went for halloween once as a vampire’s victim. Very easy. Also went once as a bag of leaves. Yes, I am the queen of lazy halloween costumes.
Btuda - Sending good vibes your way for your job interview.
I’m sure I’m missing some stuff, so just (((hugs))) generally all around!
107. McB | August 10th, 2008 at 5:25 pm
If you are still here, you are missing the new post.
Scope, have a great trip, stay safe, and enjoy the blue grass state.
108. megamega | October 23rd, 2008 at 9:36 am
Whos Looking For More Myspace-Friends FAST?
more info: http://tinyurl.com/58nsa3
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