Something Squirrelly this Way Comes

Cheap Flights....

2011-04-01T22:56:00.001-04:00

Can a book save your life?

2011-01-08T18:31:00.001-05:00

Luna & Gibson Aspire To This.....

2010-12-16T06:50:00.000-05:00

A Jayhawk Kind of Christmas...

2010-12-15T05:25:00.000-05:00

Muse - Exogenesis Symphony Part 1

2010-12-03T06:33:00.002-05:00

Opening song. Filmed at RBC Center in Raleigh, NC on October 26, 2010 with a Canon Powershot SD750.

Ignite the Light and Let It Shine

2010-12-02T06:28:00.002-05:00

Not U2 or Muse... but it's been in my head.

WORLD AIDS DAY 2010

2010-12-01T22:01:00.000-05:00

I Know This Is Not Goodbye

2010-11-24T10:10:00.002-05:00

Mr. Puddy, I hope you have lots of sunbeams to nap in, birds to watch and anything else your kitty soul desires.

Muse - Take A Bow - Raleigh

2010-10-30T07:02:00.001-04:00

End of show. Filmed at RBC Center in Raleigh, NC on October 26, 2010 with a Canon powershot SD750.

Unrelatedly
Happy Birthday Rach!!!

Muse : Undisclosed Desires

2010-10-29T06:28:00.001-04:00

Middle of set. Filmed at RBC Center in Raleigh, NC on October 26, 2010 with a Canon powershot SD750.

Six Years Ago Today....

2010-10-28T07:34:00.000-04:00

JT was born! I can't believe he's already in first grade! How the time flies!! Happy Birthday, JT!!!!!!

Muse : Exogenesis Symphony Part 1

2010-10-27T07:26:00.001-04:00

This was their opening song. Filmed October 26, 2010 at RBC Center in Raleigh, NC. Canon powershot SD750.

Simon's Cat in 'Fly Guy'

2010-10-20T21:23:00.000-04:00

The Gibbster

2010-09-06T23:52:00.000-04:00

Ultraviolet (Light My Way) :: U2

2010-09-03T18:47:00.000-04:00

From U2's first ever show in Moscow. Happy Friday!

North Star :: U2

2010-09-02T19:23:00.000-04:00

Yet another new song in the set list. Again, first played in Turin.

Glastonbury :: U2

2010-09-01T20:33:00.000-04:00

First played in Turin.

Return of the Stingray Guitar :: U2

2010-08-31T19:29:00.001-04:00

New song that opens the show, first played in Turin. Yes, instead of King of Your Love. Err wait, they're calling it Soon now.

Every Breaking Wave :: U2

2010-08-30T22:15:00.004-04:00

From Vienna, 30 August 2010, video from the spiffy keen folks at U2gigs.com

Yes it's a new song. Yes I've heard it before (earlier show on the restarted 360 tour). Yes I'm a slacker for not posting it before now (just wait, there's more!). Yes I'm a slacker in general for not posting more. Get over it. :)

Mid-August Birthday Greetings

2010-08-19T05:23:00.001-04:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOM!!!

Luna Fiona - Birthday Eve

2010-08-15T07:21:00.003-04:00

Mistress Luna's birthday is tomorrow, which means I still have time to wrap a new toy up for her. She got some canned food today tho (so did Gibbs). She gave me the hairy eyeball when I asked her if she had any big plans for her last day as a 1-yr-old. Perhaps she's having a party but didn't invite me?

I'll see if I can find my battery charger for my camera. Maybe get some videos of the Princess unwrapping her toy(s). Should be interesting to see if Gibbs lets her.

August 8th...

2010-08-08T07:30:00.002-04:00

Happy Birthday Mr. The Edge!!!!!!!!!!

Lights, Motors, Action!(tm) at Hollywood Studios

2010-07-03T17:41:00.004-04:00

A few weeks ago, I went to Disney World with the family. I took this video at the Lights, Motors, Action!(tm) Extreme Stunt Show in Hollywood Studios.

Festival for the Eno - 2010

2010-07-02T07:17:00.003-04:00

It's that time of year again, Festival for the Eno. For those that don't know, the Eno is a river. :)

Below is a short blurb about the festival, which I shamelessly swiped from the Festival for the Eno website.

Presented by the Eno River Association, the Festival features a variety of activities, all with an environmental or cultural connection to the river. The Eno River Association is committed to the preservation of the nature, culture, and history of the Eno River basin. To learn more about the Eno River Association, click here.

I'll be there for one of the days. If you're in the area, this is definitely something you should check out! Lots of great music and crafts to enjoy. Not to mention a variety of environmental information. Which, of course, is one of the best things about it. For me, anyway :)

Happy Fourth everyone!

The Front Fell Off

2010-07-01T08:13:00.004-04:00

Ah. Satire. I love it!

Birthday Greetings

2010-06-30T21:23:00.001-04:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DAD!!!!!!!!
Well, since you'll be reading this tomorrow, Happy Day After Your Birthday! :)

The Edge, Glastonbury Interview on BBC2

2010-06-27T17:19:00.002-04:00

No worries, the interview itself is in English.

Glastonbury 2010 - Muse featuring The Edge

2010-06-26T22:27:00.001-04:00

I so wish I could've gone to this. Ah well.

The Edge via Skype

2010-05-26T21:51:00.003-04:00

Sorry, it's just a link. U2.com > News > The Edge on Skype

Gibson vs Luna: Stair Wrestling

2010-05-22T16:52:00.000-04:00

Smackdown! Luna vs Gibson

2010-05-06T22:01:00.001-04:00

The Mouse Spa (aka Kitty Stash)

2010-04-10T07:52:00.004-04:00

Princess Luna Fiona Fuzzy Britches has been pawing underneath the refrigerator lately. Anytime I would open the door, she'd be over there with her paw (& leg) extended as far underneath it as she could go. Gibson would watch from the side, or take the opportunity to eat Luna's food.

This morning I decided to investigate the area under the fridge, with very attentive kitty supervision. I found some massive, Uber(!!) mutant dust bunnies, pair of headphones (ipod style, still in wrapper), a pin, some toe spreaders (things used in pedicures) and some silver glitter Styrofoam balls from my holiday wreath. Nary a (legal) kitty toy to be found and only the glitter balls were mine.

Since I was already down on the floor, I decided to check underneath the stove. Jackpot! It was like I was celebrating Luna and Gibson's birthdays four months early! I found five balls and six mice. 6!!! Both fur kids were very happy.

I let Luna keep two of the mice. No need to let her have all six. Especially when there's already four mice on the floor. Although, I haven't seen two of them in awhile. They're probably hiding out at one of the backup mice spas, underneath the couch or tv stand.

8-Bit Dr. Horrible

2010-04-06T23:22:00.000-04:00

Brilliant!!! But I may be biased...

Currituck Lighthouse

2010-04-05T22:48:00.002-04:00

Sadly, the lighthouse wasn't open at the time of my visit. The grounds were lovely though and the place very quiet and peaceful. Which was needed since I had just gotten my car unstuck from the beach. Some nice guys from VA had a chain and knew how to use it. *whew*

Anyway, this picture is only one of hundreds of pictures (400+) I took during a recent vacation at the Outer Banks. I will eventually upload them and invite cool ppl to look at them all. And then I will quiz them! Mwahahahahahahaha!

Unrelatedly
Gibson just tried to chew on a glass lampshade. He's such a special boy.

The Edge's Angel

2010-03-08T19:29:00.004-05:00

Mr. The Edge painted this lovely, modern Angel for Nollaig Fahy's 'Angels: Beacons of Hope' exhibition in Ireland. A variety of celebrities painted angels for it.

There are 41 Angels, each is cast in fiberglass from the same mold. The Angels stand eight feet tall. They're all painted differently with a design created by one of the selected celebrities. I don't believe that the celebrities did the actual painting of the Angels.

According to the Angels - Beacons of Hope website, there are 18 celebrities who participated. Not sure how 18 people divide into 41 angels though. Did they each design one and then co-design some others? Did they each design several by themselves? Did the organizers design some? Were some non-celebrity designers involved?

However it's done, the celebrities include Irish athletes, musicians and artists, as well as some select International guests.I haven't figure out how the 'select International guests' were chosen. Nor have I tried too.

The exhibit is supporting three charities. Again, not sure how this is to happen since the Angels appear to be public art displays. Maybe people will be so inspired by the Angels that they'll donate money?

Seems like it's a nifty idea.

Artistic Security

2010-03-06T09:55:00.002-05:00

Great, and inspiring, article in the New York times; Hoping to Graduate From Guards to Gauguins. It's about the security guards at the Metropolitan Museum of Art and how many of them are artists themselves.

Never thought about the guards being artists too. Then again, I can't say as I ever really thought about the guards much, if at all. It makes sense for some to be artists. The environment must be an inspiration to them. I know art museums are to me.

Anyway, enjoy!

Compostable Chip Bags

2010-03-04T21:15:00.004-05:00

SunChips have developed chip bags that are made of plants, making them 100% compostable! That doesn't mean you can start tossing chip bags out willy-nilly. Composting is a special environment, needing certain parameters and time to work. Still, it's a great step.

They also use solar power for chip making at one of their plants. They have eight. What makes them even niftier? Their chips are yummy! I ate them before they started being environmentally forward. Plus they're healthier than a lot of other chips.

Dang. I sound like a commercial for SunChips. Ah well.

Hockey
I don't want to jinx things but my Canes have won seven in a row!!! Plus all four players who went to the Olympics, won a medal (1 gold, 1 silver, 2 bronze).

Although Canes management did trade five guys yesterday. So not all happy days here.

Chile Quake Speeds Up the Earth

2010-03-02T18:35:00.002-05:00

Or so says an article on CNN. Tho if you blink, you'll have missed it. Kinda cool to think about it. Wonder if the Haiti quake had any impact...

Also, sorry about the non-posting. Been working crazy hours, have a psychotic cat and a new house.

Tag. Or Maybe Hide and Seek...

2010-02-03T22:53:00.000-05:00

I come from work on Tuesday night and there isn't a fur kid in the window. Most evenings it's Princess Luna but I've seen Sir Gibson there too. I've also come home to no kitties in the window, so not seeing one there didn't set off any internal alarms.

I walk to my front door and still no fur kid appeared in the window. I figure they're napping late upstairs. I open the door, no kids. I go inside and start taking off jacket and shoes, hanging up work bag, etc. Still no kids.

Now the internal alarm is starting to ring. The kids are usually sniffing around me by now. I start looking for them, with my socks and work badge still on (they usually come off at the front door too).

I call Luna and hear a faint meow. I call Gibson and hear nothing. Now I'm really starting to get worried as Sir Gibson is also known as Mr. Chatty, Sing Sing, Triller, Chirpy Chirp, and Squeaker because if he's not talking or singing, he's sleeping or eating. Using the litter box doesn't stop him.

I make my way upstairs, calling both kids. Luna answers, still no Gibson. By now I'm thinking Gibson is hurt and Luna is being a sweet sister and staying by his side. I should've known better.

I get to the top of the stairs and hear Luna meow from the spare bedroom. I turn to it and the door is closed. That door is only closed if someone is visiting me and staying in there.

I open the door and hit resistance. My heart lurches, thinking it's Gibson lying in front of the door. I gently ease the door open and Luna comes running out. I start calling for Gibson, still no answer.

I get the door open far enough and poke my head in. A bulletin board had been knocked over, closing the door and preventing me from opening it easily. I get the board out of the way and the door open.

Gibson is sitting on the desk, watching me. I say his name in a rather exasperated voice, as he is obviously okay, and he starts chirping and trilling at me. The rat fink. He jumps down and runs out of the room.

I have no idea how long the kids were locked in the back room. I'm pretty sure I know how they managed to get in their predicament. They were playing tag, bumped the bulletin board on their way by. It fell over, hit the door and closed it.

I checked the room and found no evidence of a make shift litter box. So I don't believe they were prisoners of their own fun for too long. Although both did use the litter box within five minutes of being freed.

Based on the amount of tag and wrestling that ensued last night and tonight, they're obviously over their traumatic experience.

I Think This Line's Mostly Filler

2010-02-02T22:00:00.003-05:00

I told someone that I was going to put up a post about my fur kids and their adventure earlier today. Yeah, that's not this post. That might be tomorrow, this post is just filler.

Kudos to those of you who know what the title is from - without googling it.

Rubber Band Girl

2010-01-28T06:13:00.000-05:00

Wednesday evening I was entertained for nearly an hour by Princess Luna Fiona Love Dove Fuzzy Britches chewed on a rubber band. Mademoiselle Luna is quite a fan of rubber bands. She pounces, chews, tugs, tosses and prances about with them. Unfortunately, she also eats them so I rarely let her have a go at one.

I had to let her last night as she was entertaining me and the rubber band was intact and still attached to the paper. She happened to be sitting on the paper, so when she got the rubber band in her mouth, it stretched. It kept stretching until it slipped off her teeth at which point it snapped back. On her paw.

After each snap, she'd shake her paw and look at it. Then she'd go back to chewing and pulling on the rubber band. If Gibson Ramone Speed Bump Scooter McGee came near, she'd growl at him. Not that it kept him from trying.

The rubber band smacked her paw at least four times before I sent out a text to friends to tell them about it. And called my mom to share. Mistress Luna did, eventually, let Gibson play with her awesome toy.

I'm thinking it was when her paw got thwacked really well. That's pure speculation though as I was watching the Canes game (we won! AGAIN!! 5-1!!!) and talking on the phone, so missed the rubber band transition.

Anyway, Gibson ended up trying to walk across the floor with the rubber band in his mouth, and the paper between his paws. He kept getting tripped up, which was entertaining. Fortunately for him, he didn't have the same paw stinging issue as his sister. He wasn't sitting on the paper, so he couldn't get a good stretch or snap back.

I'm sure he'll practice though. So he can show his big sister up. He's a competitive little bugger.

A Little Less Conversation

2010-01-27T06:24:00.000-05:00

Luna is rather freaked when I play this song.

I'm sure, if she saw the video, she'd be completely spooked. Poor girl.

You're Still Here?

2010-01-26T06:09:00.000-05:00

I know, I've been as bad about posting new entries as that Stranded song. I have no excuses except to say I bought a place and am still settling in. Mostly I've been enjoying the peace and quiet and a clean kitchen.

I haven't forsaken yall or this blog. I've just been ignoring yall and it. Nothing personal.

Stranded (Haiti, Mon Amour)

2010-01-25T03:39:00.001-05:00

Almost didn't post this because it's, well, terrible. This is why song collaborations between random people should not be written and released in a week.

Bono is barely audible because rihanna doesn't know how to meld her voice with others. (Hello! It's not all about you, chickie! It's supposed to be about Haiti! Didn't you get the memo?) Also, she looks like a hooker from the movie Pretty Woman. One more thing, there's way too much of Jay-Z.

Sledding at KU

2010-01-24T17:35:00.001-05:00

This brings back memories. Although I don't see any cushions as sleds. Or trash can lids. I guess this group of Jayhawks is better prepared than my friends and I were.

Church on a Friday Night (yes, I mean U2)

2010-01-19T19:33:00.001-05:00

Global Warming by Two Lumps

2010-01-10T22:44:00.002-05:00

Go to Two Lumps. Read. Laugh. Enjoy.
(Thanks Tamara!)

Ten for the Next Ten

2010-01-03T08:33:00.002-05:00

Read Bono's op-ed piece in the New York Times. It's a top ten list, looking forward. Not another recap of the Naughts. As you read, I'm sure you'll figure out which one resonated the most with me :)

Unrelatedly
Happy New Year, yall! Make a positive difference in 2010. Be it in your own life, your family's, your community or the world.

Muppets. Queen. Bohemian Rhapsody.

2009-12-30T22:25:00.000-05:00

Evacuate the Dance Floor

2009-12-23T01:07:00.002-05:00

Trying to add some pep to the holidays. I figure the beat can send the positive vibes to Derrick & his family that much faster.

Welcome Derrick!!

2009-12-21T23:47:00.004-05:00

Just a quick note to welcome Derrick Alexander B. into this world. He was born this morning at 1059 and weighed in at 7lbs 10oz.

He's got his fighting face on, which is a good sign. Months ago he was diagnosed with a heart tumor. It kept growing & growing until the doctors described it as "massive". So scary to think about and yet his folks kept a positive outlook. I already knew his folks were amazing people, their families too, this situation has only further cemented my opinion.

After a quick hello to Mom, Derrick & Dad were off to the NICU. Once there a cardiologist did some scans of Derrick's heart and found more tumors. Docs seem to think that the tumors are more likely to dissipate but that little Derrick may have a rare neurological disorder.

So for all of yall that have been sending prayers, positive thoughts and vibes, please continue to do so. Thanks and Happy Solstice!!

Yuletide Squirrels....

2009-12-20T14:45:00.001-05:00

I Gotta Feelin in Lights

2009-12-19T08:20:00.001-05:00

She Could Be A NaNoWriMo Participant

2009-12-02T00:03:00.002-05:00

My Writerly Efforts in November Resulted In This:

2009-12-01T22:06:00.004-05:00

And this

Sorry For Being a Slacker...

2009-11-24T00:08:00.002-05:00

It's late but I will post something!!! I don't want to go an entire week without an entry. That would just be pitiful.

NaNoWriMo
Still behind but not too badly. If I write 2000 words a day for the rest of the month, I'll hit the 50k mark. Currently have 36,081 words. Still no clear plot. Another dead body is on the horizon though. That should produce a lot of words.

Hockey
Canes lost tonight, err last night, to the Stars. So we're still winless on the road. Boo!! But we've won two games recently! And they were in a row!! So there have been some bright spots. Then again, Ruutu left the game with an injury tonight. We can't seem to shake the injury hex. Grrr!!! (what do you want me from? it's late! Grrr! was the best I could do)

Unrelatedly
I started listening to Christmas songs today. How sad am I? Need to get the Trans-Siberian Orchestra cd with Wizards of Winter on it.

Piano Stairs - The Fun Theory

2009-11-18T23:12:00.002-05:00

One question: How many more people were injured that day? All that hopping about on the stairs.

I Found A Dead Body Tonight...

2009-11-16T23:35:00.002-05:00

I wrote over four thousand words yesterday. More than two thousand words written today. You'd think I'd be able to write something for a simple blog post, right? Wrong!

Bouncing Water Drops

2009-11-13T22:26:00.001-05:00

Go ahead and get your geek on cause this is cool!!

Right Whales Sighted Near Fort Fisher

2009-11-12T23:13:00.002-05:00

Three Right whales were spotted last Sunday, three miles off the NC coast near Fort Fisher. It's the earliest recorded sighting in these waters. How cool is that? See article and photo here.

NaNoWriMo
I'm over 15k in and I haven't killed a character yet. That may be a record for me. No worries though, there's a murder on the horizon. I just need to write it.

No Impact Man

2009-11-11T09:09:00.001-05:00

I so want to see this.

Heal Well, Cam!

2009-11-09T01:17:00.002-05:00

Video of Cam Ward getting sliced during the Canes vs CBJ game on Saturday night. Cam is out for 3-4 weeks, at a minimum, with a laceration to his thigh. Coming home to Raleigh sometime today, after two nights in a Columbus hospital. There is blood on the ice, so prepare yourself if you're a squeamish sort.

Welcome, Little One!

2009-11-06T06:43:00.003-05:00

Welcome to the outside, Jacob Thomas! You've got yourself a great family, little man. Jake was born on Nov. 5, at 11:05 pm. He weighs 8 lbs, 6 oz. Minion -- I mean Mom and baby are doing well.

A List Without Bullets (there are dashes!)

2009-11-05T22:56:00.002-05:00

Mostly because I don't know how to add them in html.

- NaNo word widget still down. Just like my word count.
- Crossed the 5,000 word mark yesterday.. (barely)
- Still no NaNo words written today, but I did write a letter of violation that had over 1000 words. Sadly that was for work and I can't use it.
- Luna doing much better this evening. Still not her usual self tho
- Am tired
- Am thankful tomorrow is Friday

To the Amy's out there: Feel better soon!! PUSHHHHHHHH!!!!!

Erm, two different Amy's. Two different medical situations going on. Hopefully you can figure out which one is meant for you. :)

Not Going Crazy (yet)

2009-11-03T06:03:00.000-05:00

Back in NC. Trip up north went well. JT and MM are as cute as ever! Even when grouchy and whiny and loud. Still unsure on what the heck the craze is with Bakugan. I'm okay with that tho, since I'm not a pre-adolescent boy.

Hockey
The Canes are imploding. I hope they find their rhythm soon! It's painful to watch us get our butts skated all over. I understand we've had a series of injuries on key players. But this is when the non-key players should take the advantage to show their stuff! C'mon Canes!! I still love yall but you're making me so sad! :(

NaNoWriMo
I'm continuing my trend of the last few years. That is, I've named my novel after a U2 song. This year's is "Unknown Caller." I changed it on Sunday. Prior to that it had been "I Know I'll Go Crazy If I Don't Go Crazy Tonight." What I had really intended to name it originally was, "I'll Go Crazy (Remix)" but didn't figure that would work. Even as a temporary title on a piece of work that will prolly never go past my laptop.

Unknown Caller seems to fit better. And if I can get back to a plot (currently stuck in an upper crust, high society, hair salon) I'll like it even more. I think. I hope.

NaNoWrimo 2009 Has Begun

2009-11-02T21:28:00.002-05:00

The above is supposed to be a widget showing my progress to date. Apparently the NaNo site is experiencing issues with the widgets. Hopefully it'll be fixed soon!

As of today we're supposed to have written 3,334 words. I have written 3,406. Which means I'm 72 words ahead of where I should be. Go me and all that. ;)

The story is a real stinker. I'm hoping it'll get better, find a plot, etc. Otherwise this month will be pure torture.

U2 Links for Birthday Girl

2009-10-30T00:31:00.001-04:00

Just for you, Rach. Some U2 links to celebrate your birthday! Happy Birthday!!!!

U2 live at the Rose Bowl (over 10 million tuned in to watch it live. I was one of 'em)

Love You Like Mad

Also, see yesterday's post. In that video insert Cupcake for The Edge :)

Birthday Wishes for JT

2009-10-29T21:36:00.001-04:00

If I had hit 'publish post' instead of 'save now' this would have gone up on Wednesday - JT's actual birthday. Ah well. Foiled by no power & wrong button clicking. Hopefully next year I get it right.

Anyway, Happy (belated) Birthday, JT!!!!! (just insert JT whenever they say The Edge and pretend it's milk they're toasting you with)

U2 - Rose Bowl - 360

2009-10-26T02:26:00.004-04:00

Just watched the U2 show from the Rose Bowl. It was streamed live on youtube. I think that means I've now been to five U2 shows this year. Right? Just because I wasn't physically at the stadium for this last one, doesn't mean I wasn't there in spirit....

Anyway, five shows is still not enough. I've been eyeballing the 2010 tour dates, trying to decide which one(s) I'll go too. I guess it depends on my living situation. And work.

We'll see. Youtube is rebroadcasting the Rose Bowl show right now. Oy. I really need to get some sleep for work. But it's so tempting to re-watch...... Maybe I'll listen to it as I go to sleep. Seems like a good compromise.

Unrelatedly
National Novel Writing Month starts in less than a week. I came up with a character name this evening. I came up with a potential plot or subplot during the U2 show tonight. If I remember it in the morning, then it was worth keeping :)

Sydney Lorraine Love

2009-10-22T21:05:00.004-04:00

Little Sydney was born September 8, 2009 weighing in at 3lbs, 9oz. She's the beloved daughter of two friends from college. Her dad was my roommate, senior year.

During an early ultrasound, Sydney was diagnosed with a congenital heart defect (Tetralogy of Fallot with Absent Pulmonary Valve). The doctors also determined that, as is common with Tets, Sydney had DiGeorge Syndrome.

To translate the medical speak, Sydney's pulmonary valve does not function properly. This has caused her pulmonary artery to grow to an enormous size. The artery is compressing most of her left lung making it difficult to keep her oxygenated properly.

The doctors told her folks, the day Sydney was born, to enjoy their time with her. They didn't think she'd last the night. Sydney proved them wrong. She was a fighter. She beat the odds time and time again.

But she was so little, not quite five pounds, and she needed to rest. Little Sydney passed away today at 5:22 pm, central time. She was 44 days old.

You are loved Sydney. By more people than you could ever believe. You will be missed. Rest in peace, dear heart.

Cat Betrayed Girlfriend

2009-10-19T23:49:00.002-04:00

My favorite bit of this video used to be at the 0:39 mark. Now it's going to be the memory of Luna creeping (army crawl style) across the living room floor, tail poofed, looking for the cat. So funny! She's still looking but without the big tail and army crawl.

Equal Work for the Second Son

2009-10-16T00:13:00.000-04:00

I guess it's reassuring that the slave labor is forced onto the second son. Maybe. Perhaps this means JT is getting a break? Your big bro thanks you MM!

Blog Action Day 2009 - Climate Change

2009-10-15T01:05:00.001-04:00

Today is Blog Action Day. This year's topic is Climate Change. I was going to post an entry about melting ice caps. I read a blurb, somewhere, earlier this week about the arctic ice caps melting within 10 years. Since I can't find the reference or article, I'm forced to wonder if maybe I just dreamed the headline.

So, instead of a possibly scintillating article on melting ice caps, a video from The Nature Conservancy about Climate Change.

NaNoWriMo 2009

2009-10-14T19:59:00.003-04:00

That's right folks. It's nearly National Novel Writing Month. I'm in shock too. The year has just flown by.

I am, once again, participating. I also plan to win. Then again, I always plan to win :) Don't have a plot or even an inkling of one. Nor do I have a main character. I wouldn't be surprised if Luna makes an appearance. Or even becomes a pivotal character. Likely that Gibson (Mr. Hiss) will make a cameo too.

Ooooh Luna and Gibson in the same room = plenty of conflict! Especially from Luna's POV. Hmmm... so a sub plot is forming, now for the main plot.

I have no doubt that there will be some sort of environmental message. There will be some sort of magic and fantasy involved (i.e. urban fantasy). And it will be set in the Triangle area of NC. Probably some mention of hockey too. None of that is a surprise to yall, I'm sure.

Anyway, if you have suggestions, please send 'em my way!

U2, NASA & Writing

2009-10-13T23:03:00.000-04:00

Apparently the ginormous screen in Dallas blocked some views, even tho it was raised. Also, the sound was terrible. At least according to several tweets. Which, I totally get. The sound had a lot of reverb in the Georgia Dome and Dallas is even bigger.

Speaking of vast space, Bono and The Edge (and Bono's sons) were at Mission Control. Talking to the astronauts on the international space station. How cool is that??!! Apparently the Russian Cosmonaut wants to play with U2 during the Moscow show next year. Would be cool if it happened. We'll have to wait and see.

Unrelatedly
Funny link for any aspiring writers. Tis from the New Yorker - Subject: Our Marketing Plan

With or Without ....Puppets

2009-10-12T18:45:00.001-04:00

I Swear I'm In There

2009-10-08T07:34:00.003-04:00

After I got home yesterday (about 15:30) I went to bed. I got up about 19:00 had dinner, checked email, facebook & twitter. Then got over the moon excited about this picture.

Promptly called/emailed some folks to tell about the picture and then went back to bed. I was tired. I still am. Must be a U2 tour year.. ;)

Charging..Charging...Charging.....

2009-10-05T23:17:00.003-04:00

No, I'm not talking about credit cards. I'm talking electronic gadgets and gizmos. My laptop is charging. My camera battery is charging. My cell phone is charging. I'm all out of available plug space on my power strip. Unless I unplug and reorganize, that is. But I don't need too.

I think everything I own that requires charging is currently doing so. Well, except for me. Tho that implies that I own myself, which reduces me to chattel. Not sure I like the idea of being my own chattel. Either way, my recharging will come shortly with an extra boost tomorrow night. U2 in Atlanta!!!!!

Unrelatedly
Pffffffttttt to Garmin. If you want people to register their products perhaps you should provide them the means to do so. Without making them buy something extra! Twerps.

Yes, Another Summary Post

2009-10-01T23:51:00.000-04:00

I had planned on posting something earlier today. Honest. I just got sidetracked with the new kitten. With lots of emails (still over 100 unread). Catching up with people. I also need sleep but that's been delayed too..

I have uploaded pix from U2's DC show (okay, technically MD) off one camera and onto a thumb drive. Now I just need to transfer those to my computer. Or an online photo site. Something. One of these days I'll get around to it. Also need to transfer pix & video from other camera to computer and/or website.

Doubtful it'll be tomorrow though. Taking kitten to vet and then documentaries in Durham. I really need to find out where in Durham and what the parking situation is like. Saturday is U2!!!!!

Until the End of the World snippet

2009-09-28T00:47:00.000-04:00

From Chicago's Soldier Field on September 13, 2009

I'll Go Crazy... Remix

2009-09-27T01:09:00.000-04:00

From Chicago's Soldier Field on September 13, 2009 during U2's 360 Tour

U2 Ultraviolet - Chicago 9/13/09

2009-09-25T00:02:00.004-04:00

I didn't get the beginning. I was calling Cupcake so she could 'listen' so was a little slow on the record. That and I thought I had hit record, when really I hadn't. Just glad I noticed when I did. Sound is a lot better than I thought it would be. I get to try again on Tuesday!!!! :)

Moms of the World, Read This!

2009-09-24T07:59:00.002-04:00

Researchers at Kingston University in the UK found that an unmade bed is less appealing to dust mites, since the linens retain less moisture. Read the abstract of The psychrometric control of house dust mites: a pilot study.

So Moms, how's it feel to know that every time you ever told your child to make their bed, you were actually creating a better environment for dust mites (aka wee beasties)? Feel guilty now? How about you moms with asthmatic kids? How's your guilt level? Hmmm?? ;)

Bono the Masseur

2009-09-23T07:10:00.001-04:00

I could totally use one of these right now.

Autumn? Says Who?

2009-09-22T06:04:00.001-04:00

Although they did have snow in Colorado yesterday (or maybe it was over the weekend). And some of the trees around here are less green than they had been. Still seems early for Fall though. This year has just flown by.

Anyway, Happy Autumn!!

National Public Lands Day

2009-09-21T22:54:00.002-04:00

This Saturday, September 26th, is the 16th annual National Public Lands Day. It's the nation's largest hands-on volunteer effort to improve the (American) public lands. Pretty spiffy. Sad that this is the first year I've heard about it. Thank you, random Merrell email.

After volunteering at a park, you can reward yourself by watching the season premier of Saturday Night Light. No idea who the chickie is that's hosting. Don't care either. U2 is performing!!!!!!!!!!! Woo Hoo!!

U2 Withdrawals

2009-09-17T23:50:00.002-04:00

Not even a week since I saw them perform and I'm already impatient for my next show! It's not for over a week!! :( Not sure I'll survive. Although U2 is on the season premier of Saturday Night Live... that might help. Possibly. Hopefully.

I know, I know. I haven't posted any pix or video yet. I haven't even uploaded them onto my computer. First I was coming down off my U2 high, then I was lazy, then my touchpad broke and now I'm in the process of trying to spend A LOT of money. And the whole incident with my plane locking its brakes & blowing a tire after we landed at RDU didn't help my productivity any.

All of those are just excuses, I know. Doesn't mean the videos & pix are any closer to being posted tho :)

Luna Luna Luna Luna LUNA!!!

2009-09-15T00:03:00.000-04:00

She's been with me for a year now! Time surely flies and my little girl has grown 10 times in size. Literally. She weighed less than a pound when she found me and now she weighs over 10. My little pork pie cutie girl.

I'd post pictures but I still haven't uploaded my U2 ones and I'm having computer difficulties. Also, I'm lazy.

Mini Chicago Recap

2009-09-14T23:25:00.005-04:00

Chicago was great. The company I spent my time with was even better though. And the U2 concert (Sept 13) was beyond awesome. I have a ton of pix and a couple of videos from it. Just don't tell anyone as there were signs up all over Soldier Field saying no professional photography or video equipment allowed. Neither of which I had, just my little hand held digital Canon, but you never know what people will do. Especially if you get an awesome shot or a overly revealing one.

Maybe tomorrow I'll have the images/vids uploaded from my camera. Or later this week...

Crazy Cat

2009-09-11T00:09:00.000-04:00

She came running into my room, bit my foot and then went running out when I yelled.

Also, I've determined that she doesn't like me singing any song. Was singing a duet with Miranda Lambert earlier this week and Lunatic, I mean Luna, started pawing at my face. *sigh* Apparently, if I had to audition for my high school choir now, I wouldn't make the cut. Ah well.

You Know You Want An Inner Gong Too

2009-09-10T00:51:00.000-04:00

I know three different people who either were or are currently in Paris. Yes, the one in France. Okay, technically I only sort of know one of the people. I have met him and I did talk to him.. so that's like knowing him. Right?

Okay, okay. So by talking to him I mean I got his autograph and asked a question. That's definitely meeting him tho!!

Anywho, it must be a fine time to be in Paris. Maybe next year I'll see what all the fuss is about. Well, after I check out Ireland of course. and assuming I actually leave Ireland once I get there. :)

I lay the blame for my Ireland fascination squarely on Mrs. Crary, my 5th grade teacher. Or maybe she was 4th grade. Either way, it's all her fault. She had to go and teach us mythology. Greek was nifty. Rome was nice. But the Celts!! Totally rang the inner me gong (surely such a thing exists). It's been chiming ever since (yes, chiming. gonging just sounds wrong, ringing is for a phone and tolling makes me think of Hemingway).

My love and adoration of U2 has only increased the resonating (it can chime and resonate, thankyouverymuch) of my inner gong.

U2. Blackberry. Mobile Album?

2009-09-09T00:03:00.000-04:00

There's a rumor running around the 'net about U2 and Blackberry. The possiblity that BB will release a mobile album this Saturday.. That would be the first date of U2's US leg. Or Chicago Night 1. I'll be in Chitown, but sadly not at the gig. My euphoria will have to wait until Sunday.

Whatchall think about this mobile album dealie? Read Article Here

Unrelatedly
Today is the dreaded 09.09.09. People are so squirrelly sometimes. Wait until 11.11.11. comes around. Oy!

Luna's Labor Day

2009-09-08T07:08:00.002-04:00

She was tuckered out watching me sort through papers.

Watermelon Exhaust

2009-09-04T01:37:00.003-04:00

Apparently folks have done some testing and determined that watermelons are a pretty swanky option for making ethanol. Who knew? Although this begs the question, Will mufflers now have seed spitting contests?

Watermelon Juice: The New Fuel? by Michael Reilly, Discovery News

The Nields - "Aikendrum"

2009-09-03T23:15:00.000-04:00

Sunset - September 1

2009-09-01T22:52:00.001-04:00

So yeah, I cheated. Posted a picture I had already posted via text elsewhere. Get over it! :)

No, I wasn't driving. And no, the picture doesn't do the sunset justice.

Weekend Update (Sorry, No Tina Fey Here)

2009-08-31T22:09:00.002-04:00

I went to Wrightsville Beach early Saturday morning. I left home about 03:45. Wanted to get to the beach in time to see the sunrise and the Danny waves roll in.

Saw the waves, and nearly 100 surfers, but the sunrise was a miss. A lot of clouds from Danny. Only some sporadic blue sky and sunbeams. I took a ton of pictures and will eventually upload them.

The waves were the biggest I've seen at that beach. Pretty darn awesome to see. The surfers only improved it. They gave a reference point for the size of the waves.

Princess Luna Fiona Update
Luna appears to be improving steadily. She's still feisty and disdainful of the healthier canned food. Her bladder seems to be back on track, which is great.

Luna Cat - The Music Critic

2009-08-26T22:16:00.001-04:00

My beloved, sweet, innocent, passive, non-aggressive (sarcasm? You betcha) Luna girl was playing in the other room. I'm singing along to the song I posted yesterday and she comes running in the room.

She puts her paws up on the side of my bed and licks my arm. Her eyes are huge and she's obviously concerned. Perhaps she thought I was wailing in pain?

I coo at her for being such a sweet girl. Reassure her that I'm okay and then start to sing again. Sweet, gentle Luna stops licking and starts biting. Hard. I have fang impressions in my arm. On my hand. On my elbow. Some long scratches. Only one is seeping blood.

Not sure if she's upset about the caliber of my singing. Or if she's ticked because she came running in to aide me and I didn't need it. Or if she just doesn't like the song.

I was in choir from elementary school through high school. I used to think I could carry a decent tune. Obviously Luna disagrees.

Of course I continue to sing. It's just interrupted by interjections of, "No! Gentle!" and "Hi Sweetie". The latter for when she jumps up on me and lets me (very briefly) cuddle her before the gnawing commences, which is when the former is utilized.

Pseudo Unrelatedly
She's only been to the litter box twice in 4 hours!!!! Not sure if it's the meds or the random canned food I've been trying. Or the high priced dry food I started giving her on Wednesday. Glad she's better!

Stuck in my head...

2009-08-25T21:52:00.002-04:00

Use Somebody - Kings of Leon

Unreleatedly
Luna is better. Fewer trips to the litter box. Still hating the medicine though.

The Luna Cat: An Update

2009-08-24T23:15:00.003-04:00

Luna has triple phosphate crystals in her urine. And a high protein count. So she gets to have prescription food now. Purina UR. It's $66 for 16 lbs. Thankfully she seems to like it.

Although, currently, she's standing on her hind legs, front legs on the old bag of food with her head stuck inside the bag. Eating. Not sure if it's because she likes that food better. Or if she just wants more food. Probably both.

Pricey food but if it keeps her healthy, I'll keep buying it.

Also, Princess Luna Fiona Fuzzy Britches Pork Pie Girl still despises her meds. With every bone in her body and piece of fur growing out of her skin. At least she's consistent.

Poor girl. She's been in the box three times since I first started writing this - 7 minutes ago. I hope the food works quickly. And the meds.