And to All a Good Night

Tuesday, Casey and I were stupid. We went to Wal-Mart.

Or, at least that's what I would have thought had I not gone there. The parking lot was packed, but the store itself really wasn't that bad. I've seen it much worse on regular days. Or in the middle of December. But for the 20th, it wasn't bad.

Same with the mall when I went on the 21st. Monday, it had been super crowded. Maybe this means everyone in town is done with their shopping already. I know I've been hearing that retail sales were strong, so I don't think this is a bad sign.

Meanwhile, not much else going on around here.

Left work a little before three today. Still have my jeans drying in the dryer, but that's the final part of the three loads of laundry I did today.

I was going to be all packed so I could just get up and leave in the morning, but it's not going to happen. I'm way too tired, and I put off packing until my clothes were done. It'll be easier in the morning anyway because I can just gather stuff up and go instead of trying to pack half tonight and half tomorrow. Of course, it means I either have to get up earlier or leave later. Or both.

Anyway, I am leaving for my parents in the morning. Won't be back until New Year's Day. I'll check in if I can, but if you don't hear from me, don't panic.

Have a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

Early Thursday Threesome for December 22nd

Remember when I used to do these first thing Thursday morning? Ok, so it's been years. Still, I'm doing it first thing today. And it's brought to us this week by emotional rollercoasters and The Back Porch.

Onesome: Daily-- Do you have a daily routine you've fallen into this Christmas? ...baking in the morning, shopping in the afternoon? ...checking your list (twice) and then trying to find that certain something at lunch? ...checking the shippers to make sure everything is on the way? ...making sure you don't miss a day with your Advent calendar?
No more then normal. I still have to work. Then I go home after work. Really not much out of the ordinary for me.

Twosome: Ups and-- USPS and DHL and FedEx? How's the inbound traffic this year? Are you receiving more from on line stores than you have in the past? (Oh, and a word to the gang on this: Amazon's "SuperSaver Shipping" is using a sequence of Airborne to the USPS to the recipient, targeting deliveries for Friday the twenty-third. Heads up tomorrow for inbound reindeer!)
I think I did about the same amount of shopping this year on line as previous years. Maybe a little more, but not too much more. There's one package going straight to my parents I don't know about, but everything that should have arrived down here has arrived already.

Threesome: Downs-- ..de' hatch? What are your thoughts on eggnog now that it's that time of year? ...and sure, unleadeed or with the traditional added 'kick'. It seems no one is fence-sitting on this holiday drink; people either seem to like it or loath it. How about you?
I remember having eggnog once in my life and not liking it. I was a kid at the time, but I haven't gone near the stuff since. It was unleaded then and I'd have it unleaded again now.

Quiz Time

Here are a couple more quizzes I've wanted to do for a while but haven't gotten to yet.


You are Brian! You are dependable, stable, and are
always there to help. You can be counted on to
fix any problem and get people out of sticky
situations. Just make sure you aren;t so stern
all the time; losen up and have a little more
fun in life!


What Trixie Belden character are you?
brought to you by Quizilla

Ok, I'll admit I picked a couple Brian answers. But it was rather hard not to know who they were going for. Now, If I had red hair but was the oldest and dependable with parents who did a good job raising the family....


You are Jim! You are a gentleman who ALWAYS tries
to do what is right in every situation. People
apprectiate your honesty and the humor that
often peeks out from your proper front. Make
sure your aren't SO honorable that you lose
friends because you are a goody-goody.


What Trixie Belden character are you?
brought to you by Quizilla

I guess this just proves how much alike those two are. All I did was chance the hair color question, and I went from Brian to Jim.

This Is My Life, Rated
Life:	6.1
Mind:	5.8
Body:	5.3
Spirit:	7.9
Friends/Family:	4.8
Love:	0.8
Finance:	8.1
Take the Rate My Life Quiz

Love life seems harsh, but I guess it's accurate.

You Should Learn Swedish

Fantastisk! You're laid back about learning a language - and about life in general. Peaceful, beautiful Sweden is ideal for you... And you won't even have to speak perfect Swedish to get around!

What Language Should You Learn?

But don't they speak that is Sweden? Isn't that like, a very cold place? No thanks. :)

Party Time

This was a very busy weekend. Christmas party time, you know.

Thursday night, we took the youth caroling. Took the bus this year, which I was very thankful for. Only made four stops, and we kept having to go back and forth because one gated community was going to let us in, then wasn't, then was.... What's really funny is we had no problem getting in a couple weeks ago.

Friday, I met for lunch with Pastor Jon. we talked about my future in ministry in the church, and specifically youth ministry. We reached absolutely no conclusions other then the fact that I would definitely stay through January. Still, it was a very good time.

Friday night, Jon took the youth staff out to dinner. It turned out being mostly Jr. High staff. We were going to the Cheesecake Factory down in Hollywood. Since no one got there to put our name in before 7:30, it was 10 PM before we were seated. That's what happens when you have a large group on a busy night. Most of us hung out at the Barnes and Nobel next door the entire time. That's where I found the book Smart Answers to Dumb Questions. A cartoon book depecting the sarcastic comments you often want to say to the questions you get asked all the time. "Would you liked to see our menu?" "No thanks. we'll just guess what you have?" "Is this book supposed to be funny?" "No, it's supposed to be read." Or my personal favorite exchange. Guy entering elevator on bottom floor: "Going up?" Guy in elevator: "Actually, we thought we'd break the monotony and go sideways today." Ok, so have I ever claimed not to be a wise guy? I came so close to buying the book, but I didn't at the last minute. Now I'm wishing I had.

Anyway, we did finally get seats and get food. It was quite good, and the cheesecake was fabulous. I also really enjoyed hanging out with these friends. The down side was, we didn't get home until 1 AM.

Naturally, I slept in on Saturday. Which didn't give me time to do anything much before I had to be down at Konrad and Carol's for the game night. We met early so we could spend some time making chocolates. Then we played Mexican Train Dominoes. I lost royally. It might have had something to do with me drawing more dominoes then anyone else to start.

Sunday evening was the annual Christmas carol sing at church. I always love that service, and this year was no exception. We didn't have a time for requests this year, but we still sang "Infant Holy, Infant Lowly," a personal favorite that is often overlooked. And we ended with "Come On, Ring Those Bells." I couldn't have planned it better.

After that (no, my partying isn't over yet), I went to Stephen and Natalie's for their annual Christmas party. Plus I got to meet their new son, Dylan. Again, I had a wonderful time. We played Wise and Otherwise, a game kinda like Balderdash using old proverbs. I loved it and am quite disappointed to learn that the game appears to be out of print.

At the end of the party, one of their guests, told me I needed to get a wife when she heard me talking about enjoying TV and books. I was too offended at the time, but later I thought about how funny it was. If she only know what my weekend had been like. Plus it tied in to a discussion we had at the game night about how the church puts pressure on people to be married.

So that's the tale of my weekend.

A Little Behind the Times

I got a funny piece of mail Friday.

It was a reminder to vote on November 8th from the Republican party. Icluded the governor's propositions so I could vote the right way.

Anyone else think it's funny that I got it six weeks after the election?

So, the question becomes, did someone at Republican head quarters slip up? Or is this another example of the post office delivering mail very slowly?

Of course, the flier looks familiar. I bet I got two or three of them before the election.

Anyway, I thought it was funny.

Word Association for December 18th

Two WA posts in a row. Aren't you lucky?

1. Replenish:: Supply
2. People:: Magazine
3. Trend:: Fashion
4. Girlfriends:: Group of female friends
5. Spirit:: (is) Willing
6. Banshee:: Yell
7. Oasis:: Water
8. Thrills:: Chills
9. Fountain:: Water
10. Boxes:: Packages

Word Association Catch Up

I never did the Word Association for Sunday, did I?

Well, here we go then.

1. Stalker:: Danger
2. Outrageous:: Claim
3. Carrying:: Bucket
4. Spirited:: Debate
5. Oh!:: No!
6. Grid:: Lock
7. Country:: City
8. Karen:: Smith
9. Candles:: Flame
10. Relationship:: Dating

Thursday Threesome for December 15th

Brought to us this week by candy sellers and The Back Porch.

Onesome: Candy canes-- Treat of the Christmas season or something you just never got into? (Oh, and "traditional" or with green stripes for the aficionados out there ?)
Treat of the season we should have more often. And definitely just red and white (even though I love the color green just about anywhere else.)

Twosome: and Peppermint-- or cinnamon scented candles and such? Which do you prefer when you walk into a home or business this time of year? ...or maybe even fresh evergreen from a real tree?
Fresh evergreen from a real tree, even though I haven't had a real tree for several years now. Scented candles usually bother my allergies.

Threesome: sticks-- ..or schtick? ..or even maybe kitsch? Yeah, what is your most un-favorite piece of Christmastime memorabilia? That display at the hardware store? The "Simpsons Nativity"? That ornament you made in third grade that still ends up on the tree each year? Inquiring minds and all that...
I honestly don't know if I have anything I don't like. If I don't like it, I don't buy it and since I'm the only one who buys stuff for Christmas at my place, it's not that big a deal.

Absolutely Wonderful!

The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe is my favorite movie of the year, hands down. It is everything I hoped for in a movie version of the book.

Yes, the change details. Most of the time, it's minor stuff, but in the middle they make some major changes. But those changes help make it a good movie instead of a book. Either version stands up well by itself.

I absolutely can not wait to see it again. If you haven't seen it yet, what are you doing sitting here reading this post? Go, watch now! That is an order!!!!!!!!

After the movie, we came back to my condo for games and pumpkin pie. Joanne Fluke recipe, of course. We had a good time, although with Dawson there it was hard to concentrate on the game. Still, it was a wonderful day.

Other then that, not much else going on. When you go to work and do nothing at night, life is fairly easy with not much to report.

So I think I'll finally get around to doing this quiz I've seen on just about everyone's blog by now and haven't done yet.

You scored as Maximus. After his family was murdered by the evil emperor Commodus, the great Roman general Maximus went into hiding to avoid Commodus's assassins. He became a gladiator, hoping to dominate the colosseum in order to one day get the chance of killing Commodus. Maximus is valiant, courageous, and dedicated. He wants nothing more than the chance to avenge his family, but his temper often gets the better of him. Maximus 71% The Amazing Spider-Man 63% Batman, the Dark Knight 63% El Zorro 54% William Wallace 54% Captain Jack Sparrow 50% James Bond, Agent 007 46% The Terminator 46% Neo, the "One" 42% Lara Croft 38% Indiana Jones 33% Which Action Hero Would You Be? v. 2.0 created with QuizFarm.com

So I'm a hero from a movie I hated. Interesting.

Of course, I think if I liked to climb and didn't mind tight fitting spandex, I could have bumped Spidy to the top.

Tomorrow Can't Come Fast Enough!

So, in case you've missed it, The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe opens today. I absolutely can not wait to see it.

I've heard from a couple people who have seen it. One went to a special screening they did for Master's College folks last night (during Bible study or you can bet I would have been there). The other went to a midnight screening. But have raved about it, saying it is everything a fan of the books would want.

I am going to see it tomorrow with the game night crew. 24 hours from now I'll be in the theater watching. I so can not wait until then. It can not get here fast enough.

Can you tell I'm a little excited?

I'm so excited today has been pretty much a waste. I didn't have much to do, but I wanted to get it done. I gone none of it done. I guess that's what Monday will be for.

Youth group last night went well. Small turn out, but I guess there was sports stuff going on for the school. I led worship by myself for various reasons. We're caroling next week, so this will be our last worship time of the year. And after next week, we're taking three weeks off. Since I'll be gone two of them, works out well for me.

Thursday Threesome for December 8th

This week's entry is brought to us by retailers and The Back Porch.

Onesome: Seventeen Shopping-- Malls? ..or one Internet? Are you doing more online shopping this year? The polls say we are, but I'm curious about what the real people are doing.
So far, I've done all my shopping on-line. Mainly from Amazon. I'm sure the presents I have left I'll need to shop in stores for, however, as I won't have the time for shipping from internet places.

Twosome: Days-- ...or "Daze"? Are you finished with your shopping? Do you still a few things to go? What? Not even a game plan? ...or is there just one person you're having trouble finding something for?
It seems like every year there's someone that sneaks up on me, but I think I only need to buy presents for two more people. We'll see if I'm right or not in another week or so.

Threesome: Left!-- What's left to do at your place (or where you are going)? Is the tree up? ...or maybe you're just happy you found the Christmas coffee mug and are calling that good?
Actually, the mugs are the only thing I don't have out yet. Everything else went out Saturday. I love having me tree up!

Success

Yesterday, my new gas dryer was delivered. As I feared, they gave me a time of the middle of the afternoon. Fortunately, they arrived near the beginning of the two hour window so I could get back to work.

The new dryer is hooked up. I used it for a couple loads last night. I'll have to see if I can figure out how to dry things the first time through. I think if I go with a longer cycle I won't need to use the highest heat. But even with it on the second heat setting (I think there are like five), it still worked very well. Things were almost dry the first time around as apposed to be almost dry the second time around. And it's much quieter! I think the washer is a little louder, but the dryer is so quiet you can actually forget it's going when it is turned on. I think I'm going to like them both.

I haven't talked to Mom since Monday, but she was feeling better then. Feeling stronger and having more energy at the end of the day, which is a very good thing.

Monday night I went with Debbie to see the new Harry Potter movie. I liked it, but since I haven't read the books, I have nothing to compare it to. I can't wait for the next one!

If At First You Don't Succeed

I couldn't wait to get my new washer and dryer on Saturday. I was decorating my Christmas tree, which I have right up front, during the stated two hour window, so I was watching out the window while I worked. Then they arrived.

That was when I learned that I have a gas dryer, not an electric dryer like I thought all along. Oops. The two guys spoke enough English to get by, but they weren't easy to communicate with. Anyway, they kept telling me I had a gas dryer but had bought an electric. Several times. Finally, I figured out that they couldn't hook up the electric dryer because the connections weren't right. So I had to send the dryer back. The good news was they set up the washer then hooked my old dryer back up so I could do the load of towels I desperately needed to do.

Yesterday, I went back to Best Buy and got the refund for the electric dryer and bought the same dryer as a gas dryer. I got a good deal on it, too, because of some deals they had given me originally that they still honored. The new dryer should be delivered sometime tomorrow. Can't wait to do some laundry in my new units!

I haven't gotten an update on Mom today, but as I said yesterday, she is home but not super strong. Hopefully she will continue to heal. Naturally, this isn't fun for her at all.

Word Association for December 4th

But first, an update.

Mom is home from the hospital, but still not feeling 100%. Still, she's doing much better.

Now, the word assocation.

1. Amazing:: Spiderman
2. Delights:: Turkish
3. Inspired:: Story
4. Disgusted:: Upset
5. You:: Me
6. Vagina:: Woman
7. Palm:: Sweaty
8. Sweetheart:: Cold
9. Guilt:: by Association
10. More to come:: To be Continued

It All Adds Up to Nothing

What do you get when you have a basketball tournament, ladies craft night, and the youth pastor gone on the same night? Nothing.

Last night after work I raced home to work on getting some songs together for worship and the powerpoint done. Finished that up and got there a couple minutes late.

Then I learned what else was going on. The guys were playing in a basketball tournament the Christian school connected with my church was hosting. The ladies had planned their monthly craft night, so wouldn't be joining us. And Pastor Jon was at a convention. We kept changing what we were planning to do, but ended up doing nothing. I felt badly for the high school guys who were there, but since there were no jr. high guys and jr. high staff but only one high school staff, I didn't feel too guilty.

Paul moved in this week. I think things will work well, once I adjust to the change. You know me and change.

This afternoon, Dad called to tell me that Mom was in the hospital and would be there overnight. She passed out early this morning and was acting weird, so Dad called for an ambulance. They have determined that she has an ulcer that is bleeding internally. They've given her some stuff for it and all should be well now, but I must admit it's still shaken me up quite a bit.

Thursday Threesome and Word Association

Catch up time again.

We'll start with the easy one. I just have one word association to do.

1. Stuffed:: Turkey
2. Armstrong:: Redwoods
3. Bruise:: Fight
4. Content:: Objectionable
5. Musical:: Theater
6. Assistance:: Help
7. Scrambling:: to get ahead
8. Battle:: Scars
9. Extended:: Edition
10. Discount:: Sale

Now comes two weeks worth of Thursday Threesomes from The Back Porch.

Onesome: The-- Which is the Christmas movie for you? "It's a Wonderful Life"? "Frosty the Snowman"? "Miracle on 34th Street"? Do you have a favorite you just love to see each year?
I think I have three that top my list. "A Charlie Brown Christmas," "How the Grinch Stole Christmas" (the cartoon, not the live action version), and George C. Scotts version of "A Christmas Carol."

Twosome: Polar-- bears seem comfortable in the cold and snow; how about you? Is snow a welcome pause for you? ...an annoyance? ...or perhaps something for 'people living elsewhere'?
Most definitely something for people living elsewhere. I can't stand cold, so I don't think I'd do well in winter weather.

Threesome: Express-- Have you ever found yourself in the Express line at the store, but only realized that after you had loaded something like thirty items onto the belt, were paying by check and were planning on using coupons?
Here you can use checks and coupons in the fast lane. Drives me crazy. I have gotten into the express line with one or two extra items, but never with 30.

And this week's.

Onesome: Christmas-- "Christmas is coming; the goose is getting fat..." Nope, I'm not going there, not by a long shot! How about: Even though we just finished up the Thanksgiving meal, what dish are you looking forward to most at Christmas time? ...and yes, Christmas cookies count!
Pumpkin pie, which we didn't have at Thanksgiving. And stuffing. Let's not forget yams and apples. I think it's a good thing it's lunch time.

Twosome: Elf-- Who is your favorite Christmas Elf? Mom? Dad? Will Farrell? That guy who helps you at the tree place each year?
I really can't say I have a favorite Christmas elf. Unless you counted my job's policy of letting us off for at least a week every year so I have time to spend with family.

Threesome: Gifs-- How about your favorite bit of Christmas artwork? Is it a painting? ...a cartoon? ...your special ornament? ...the tree in the town square?
I have several great Christmas ornaments, including one of a nutcracker painted in Bavarian colors. Got it when we were in Germany and I just love it.

Back in CA

I did return successfully yesterday. Just didn't have time to blog about my great weekend.

Wednesday, I left work a little later then I had intended, but still managed to make it to the shuttle I wanted to catch. I got to the airport two hours early, in fact, which gave me time to get a leasurely lunch, wander around the terminal, and even read for a bit. And get this, both my planes were on time, something I don't think has ever happened going to or from Dallas.

We didn't do much after I got there beside go to bed, and then Thursday we slept in. Once we got up, we fixed the traditional dinner with all the trimmings, including two kinds or yams. My sister-in-law has her favorite and our family has ours. Although both admitted we liked the other's better then we remember this year. After dinner we watched the Amazing Race and played Apples to Apples. Plus, of course, we had dessert. SiL made one item I couldn't have because of my nut allergies, but she also made a caramel cheesecake that was wonderful.

Friday was another lazy day. We did get out and go to the Dallas Arboretum. It would have been prettier if stuff had been in bloom, but it was still nice. We also stopped at a Wal-Mart, and I was able to find the hand soap I like that I can't find in Santa Clarita any more! I bought a bunch of bottles and sent them home with Mom and Dad.

Speaking of whom, they left really early Saturday morning to start driving back. But the three of us went back to sleep after they left. :) Bro had to go into the church for a little while, so SiL and I hung out at the house. We watched like six episodes of season 3 of Friends. Then Bro finally got home and we watched Lost and went out to eat.

Sunday was busy. Since Bro is the youth pastor at their church now, it was a work day for him. It was also my first chance to watch him in action, and I was very impressed. He's got a great relationship with the group. That evening, they had a youth game night that I got to crash, which was lots of fun.

Yesterday, I had to leave. :( My flight out of Dallas was about 20 minutes late, but I didn't have far to go between terminals, so I made my tight connection no problem. I also finished The Buck Stops Here, which I'd been reading since Thursday night. I really don't want to see that series end!

Today, at lunch time, I bought a washer and dryer. Can't wait for Best Buy to devliver and install it Saturday. Work was crazy since I had a couple days to catch up on. And Paul started moving stuff in. He intends to spend tomorrow night here.

Last Night Was So Not My Day

Actually, I was having a good day. Not quite as productive as I had hoped, but still decent.

Then we came home.

It started when I realized the floor in the kitchen was wet. It was dripping from all four sides of the frame of the light. I immediately call the Home Owners Association and they call the emergency plummer. He doesn't think he needs to come out since it could be from the condo above. Unfortunately, they aren't home, so he comes out. I'm glad he did, too, because it was indeed a pin hole leak in a pipe. He fixed it, leaving a giant hole in my kitchen ceiling.

Casey had finally remembered to bring home some stuff I was planning to use to try to take off the tape residue from the for sale sign. yeah, I haven't worried about it for two years, but it's beginning to get to me.

Anyway, I use it, and it does no good. It does however, smear all over the window, which I can't get off with Windex.

Naturally, I had to dry the kitchen floor. I went to wash those towels. When the cycle was done, I discovered that it hadn't properly rinsed the towels. And it had a faint electric burning smell again. It's official. I need to get a new washer and dryer.

To top it of, the light in the kitchen isn't working anymore. I don't know if it's because it got wet or what.

Why does this stuff always happen right before I'm supposed to leave town?

Of course, it can all wait until I get back. Still.

Today was much better. I got lots of stuff done at work. Looked at washers and dryers a little at lunch time. And I bought tickets for our game night viewing of The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe on December 9th. I so can not wait! And Paul brought over his check for December rent. It's official, I'm going to have two roommates starting next week. Of course, we also need to make a little room for him to add stuff. Still, we can make this work.

In other news, our "game" night Saturday was going to see Zathura. Yeah, it's pretty much Jumangi in space, but it was still enjoyable.

Well, I am all packed for my trip to visit my brother and sister-in-law for Thanksgiving. Mom and Dad are already there. I'm really looking forward to this. See you next week and have a wonderful Thanksgiving.

Word Association for November 20th

Found here.

1. Heads up:: Seven Up
2. Kicker :: Soccer
3. Aggressive:: Mean
4. Getting ugly:: Washington DC this week
5. To be continued:: NO! Not again!
6. Twist:: Plot
7. Form:: Fitting
8. On the road:: Again
9. Import:: Export
10. Flowers:: Roses

Way Past Time for an Update

I'm sure you all agree.

Last weekend's game night was different. We went to a game night that Debbie's Sunday school class was hosting. We wound up all together playing games. Wasn't bad, but it just wasn't the same as normal.

For the most part, this week has been rather quiet. Getting some stuff done at work, but not nearly as much as I should be getting done. Next week is going to be rough as I try to get everything done I need to before I leave for Thanksgiving.

Sun is shining. It's in the 80's again today. Doesn't feel like I'll be listening to nothing but Christmas music next week.

I found my dad's Christmas present this week, and I'm rather excited about that.

The big news of the night was Thursday. When I yet again made a fool of myself in public.

Some of the staff had brought in cookie dough to bake cookies for the kids when youth group was over. They were baking them in the kitchen near the gym/worship center. Now we just put a new floor in the gym, and there are big signs everywhere saying "No food. Water only." So, naturally when I see kids eating their cookies out there, I try to stop them. Some of them even purposefully defying me.

One of the decans in the church had been out on visitation and came back in time to snag a cookie. As I'm trying to remind him not to eat the cookie in the gym, he completely ignors me, takes it, and walks off.

So there I am being underminded in front of the kids again. I loose it and slam my Bible into something which makes a rather loud noise. Not exactly the best response. The decan comes back and starts literally yelling at me for all he is worth, then tells me we need to move where we will have more privacy, stopping every so often to yell at me in front of those who had no idea that anything has happened.

Then he asks for an explanation, which, when I try to give him, he interrupts me every two words to yell at me some more. Finally, he's about to storm off because I'm not behaving in the way he wants, and I tell him he's behaving no better then I am. That has the desired effect and pulls him up short. We are finally able to talk through what happened and he sees where I'm coming from. However, he also brings up again my reaction to the prank pulled on me at the church campout a year and a half ago. What's most interesting about that is his son was one of those involved yet I've had lots of people tell me what happened was wrong and those involved were out of line.

Yes, things were settled before I left, but I spent most of the rest of the night stewing about it. At one point, Pastor Jon mentioned to me again about understanding when I feel it's time to move on.

Frankly, I've been thinking about it more recently. I had decided I was going to transition out of it this summer at some point. But now I'm wondering if I should move up the purely selfish time table. Maybe I'm hurting more then I'm helping. This was especially driven home by the fact that none of the activities coming up are things I'm at all interested in doing. Yet we need to be doing activities of all kinds with the kids.

So yeah, Im rather frustrated and confused right now. Prayer would be greatly appreciated.

Thursday Threesome for November 17th

Got to get this done before I leave for the day.

Brought to us this week by slow service and The Back Porch.

Onesome: Where's-- the main event for you and yours next Thursday? Are you staying in? ...or are you doing the "Over the river and through the woods" thing?
I'm going to Texas. My parents will be there as will my brother and sister-in-law.

Twosome: the-- main course? If you had your way, what would be on your plate as you sat down for a Thanksgiving meal?
Turkey, stuffing, Mom's yams and apples recipe, and pumpkin pie. I think I'm likely to get all of those but the pie.

Threesome: Server?-- Who is the main server at your get together? Does one person run the show? ...or do several people work together? Students: do you even get to go somewhere?
We'll probably all work together again and then eat buffet style when it's done.

So just how did my week end?

With me sick, of course.

For a week now, I've had a cough. When it comes, it's pretty bad. But then I can go hours without coughing at all.

Tuesday, I didn't feel well, but stayed at work. Wednesday, I worked hard and got lots done. Then came Thursday. I felt miserable and sounded worse. Was running a slight temperature, so I called in sick and stayed home.

By the end of the day my temp was gone and I was feeling better. My cough was the worst it had been all week, however.

Of course, the fun in all this was my Friday plans. I'd taken the day off work and was planning to visit with my aunt while going to the Nixon Presidential Library, which I had never been to before. So, when I decided I was sick Thursday, I started trying to get in touch with her. When I did, she decided she was going to go anyway and she'd call me when she got into town Friday to see if I was feeling better. I was, so I went, too.

Am I ever glad I did. First of all, it was free because of Vetrans Day. Second, it was fascinating. I really didn't know much about Nixon, so I learnd alot. In fact, I want to go back to try to absorb some of it. Naturally, it has a strong pro-Nixon bias, but what else would you expect?

I think the thing that struck me the most was how things really haven't changed. The same stunts the two parties are pulling on each other right now they were doing 50 years ago when Nixon was in the Senate. It's so sad that the parties are more concerned with having power then with ideas or even listening to what their constituents want.

Word Association for November 13th

Really, I haven't abandonded this thing. Honest.

See, I'm doing this week's word association.

1. Mighty:: God
2. Gotta find time to ....:: Relax
3. Statistic:: Percentage
4. Midnight:: Dark
5. Thaw:: Frozen
6. Hips:: Lips
7. Reader:: Book
8. Related:: Family
9. Brilliant:: Mind
10. Posture:: Poor

Thursday Threesome for November 10th

Brought to us this week by Time and The Back Porch.

Onesome: Of the Hours-in the week, which ones are your favorites?
The ones I spend at game night each Saturday.

Twosome: In the-week there are 168 hours (it seems longer!); what bit of trivia do you hold that you'd like to share with the group?
There are 10,080 minutes in a week. Lots of zeros. I like it. Of course, I cheated since I used a calculator to come up with that. My brain has turned to muss today, I'm afraid.

Threesome: Week-after week we roll along, pausing each Thursday to share some common time here; where else do you go on a weekly basis for a little diversion? (On line or off line; either is fine.)
At the risk of repeating myself, game nights Saturday. Word association Sunday. And my TV shows during the week.

News, News, and Game Night Fun

Saturday, the repairman came out and couldn't find anything wrong with the washing machine. Naturally. We've now done four loads with it, and we haven't had a problem. So I have no clue what was going on.

Still, while I was out and about on my lunch hour, I stopped by Sears and saw they are having a great sale this week. So I stopped by the library and looked at Consumer Reports. Now I don't know what to do.

I heard from Paul tonight. He's a go for moving in! Hope this works out well. Guess we'll find out next month.

Naturally, this does give me more money to play with for replacing my washer and dryer. Still don't know what to do.

Of course, if this is Monday, it must be time for a game night update.

Saturday was Carol's birthday, so naturally we celebrated by making her bring dessert. She brought not only a lemon meraigne pie, but also chocolate overload bar cookies. both were very good, not that it surprised any of us.

For the game we played Beyond Balderdash. This game gives you obscure words, people, dates, movies, and initials. One player puts the real definition in, but everyone else makes up something they think will fool the rest of the group. It's lots of fun and always good for some laughs. Here are some highlights.

What does FTBS stand for? Is it a) Franklin Television Broadcasting Station? b) Free throwers Boomerang Society? c) Fortune Tellers Behavior Society? If you guessed b, you'd be correct. Believe me, no one got that one.

Who was Tobias Smollett? He wasn't the first winner of the Ironman triathlon. He also didn't invent binder clips or grocery sacks. He did invent the mailbox, however.

What does Ranarium mean? A post reclamation byproduct of water used for colling radioactive material? Nope. A place where rinos are cared for? Nope. It's a frog farm, of course.

Let's switch to movies. Going Ape. The movie is not about a scientist who switches his brain with an ape's. Not about chimps trying to take over the city or a shimp who plays football. Nope. It's about a guy who inherits orangutangs and must take care of them to inherit $5 million. And I see it starred Tony Danza and Danny De Vito, too.

That Sinking Feeling. The drama and disappointment of Harriet's high school prom? A newlywed couple gets suckered into buying a yachet in which things go wrong? A gang of Scottish Teens steal a warehouse full of sinks? Believe it or not, it's the last one. Although the yachet got the most votes.

Two more.

Duffing means: a) to hit a teddy bear when you're mad b) hitting a golf ball badly so that it barely goes anywhere c) the body of a fisherman's artificial fly d) happily bouncing a ball down the street e) Stepping on the heel of the shoe of the person in front of you f) a soccer player hitting the soccer ball with his head. The correct answer would be C.

Finally, more initials. NPBOA stands for a) National Party Boat Owners Association b) National Parks Board of Authority c) National Pimple Busting Officers Associaton. In this case, the answer is A, but I'll let you continue to guess which answer got the most laughs of the evening.

See, you learned something new by reading this post today.

Word Association for November 6th

Found here, of course.

1. Deeper and deeper:: Digging Yourself
2. Can’t help .... :: Falling in Love with You
3. Devil’s advocate:: Wrong Side
4. Superpower:: Strength
5. Threatening:: Message
6. Played:: Out
7. War:: of the Worlds (and I didn't even see the movie this summer)
8. Violate:: Treaty
9. Invest:: Product
10. Choke:: Hold

TGIPayday

The insurance over the last few months has really wiped me out. I need the money from payday today like you wouldn't believe. I sure hope Paul's answer is yes next week about moving in. I do have money in savings, but I hate to touch it. I guess what happened last night would qualify as an emergency, however.

I decided to wash a load of towels before I left for youth group. I started the washer filling. It stopped way too soon, like only after a couple inches. I moved the switch and started it again. That's when I noticed the burning smell. Naturally, I turned it off. I've got a repairman coming out tomorrow. I called around until I found someone who didn't charge an arm and leg for the initial service call. Probably not the best route to take, but it's the one I chose. We'll see what his diagnosis is.

Depending on who much he says it will take to repair it, I may just replace. That's the way I'm leaning right now. The washer and dryer are old. Not sure how old, but they look to be 20-30 years old. The dryer doesn't dry clothes right, usually taking two or three cycles. They came with the place, so I don't have too much invested in them. It might be worth it just to get rid of them and get new ones. Of course, that means trying to figure out what I want to get. Fortunately, most places will have stuff on sale next weekend for Vetrans' Day. Hopefully I can get a good deal.

On the good news front, I got my electric bill this week, and it had a credit on it. Apparently, I qualified for a credit of some kind. Don't know what/why, but I do want to poke around and see if I can figure it out. I'm guessing it was because my useage this summer was significantly less then last month. The benefit of having two fewer people running the washer and dryer and setting the thermostat much colder then I wanted it.

Last night's youth group was the latest in a series of unusual weeks. We left at 7 and took the teens over to the house of one member who is very sick. We sang a few songs and Pastor Jon shared a couple verses. Took all our time, but it was very nice.

Thursday Threesome for November 3rd

Brought to us this week by normal humans (I don't know anyone who likes it) and The Back Porch.

Onesome: I Can't - What little thing can't you do that everyone else seems to be able to do?
Change my strum pattern while playing guitar. That doesn't count? Find Seinfeld funny. Um.... The worst part is, I'll come up with the perfect one as I drift off to sleep tonight but forget it again later.

Twosome: Stand - What issue is it that you take a big stand on?
Many conservative political issues.

Threesome: Being Sick - Are you prone to getting sick or are you one of those people that can go years in between illnesses?
I used to go years without getting so much as a cold. Now I seem to get colds a couple times a winter and can catch other diseases pretty quickly as well.

Welcome to November

Don't I say this every month? Can't believe it's already November.

So, looks like Paul might be moving in next month. Still could still change. No firm/can't back out committment on either end. But assuming things don't change at his current situation, he'll move in.

How's that for uncertain. :)

Game night was a blast Saturday night. We started by watching the new VeggieTales, Lord of the Beans. Great addition to the series. Very funny. Then we played Killer Uno, and I won. Granted, we stopped early and it was only by 50 points or so, but I'll take it where I can get it. Plus I made peach cobbler (from a Joanne Fluke recipe of course) for dessert. Let me tell you, it was wonderful!

And during a break, we used Debbie's computer to view the final trailer to The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. This one actually has talking animals in it, and I felt the shivers. This is gonna be so good! Only 39 days, but who's counting?

Yesterday was fairly warm with strong Santa Ana winds blowing and temps in the 90's. My last bit of warm weather until Spring, I think. Already cooling off again.

So, does this make me a grump? Last night, I had maybe two dozen kids come to my door trick or treating. I wasn't expecting a whole lot because of all the stairs in the units. However, the majority of them were Jr. High age and WERE WITHOUT COSTUME! It kinda seems to me that if you are going to go trick or treating, you should be wearing a costume no matter what age you are. I felt like not giving any candy if they weren't in costume, but I didn't actually follow through.

Finished Mew is for Murder at lunch time. Glad to be done with it. A debut novel, and it showed big time. Later this week, I'll be getting the new Turing Hopper and Talk Radio mysteries. Can't wait to read both of them.

Word Association for October 30th

Should be getting ready for church, but instead I'm doing this.

1. Unbreakable:: Promise
2. Have mercy:: Lord
3. Do it better:: Second Time Around
4. Settle scores:: Revenge
5. Comments:: Blog
6. Craziest thing:: "I've ever seen"
7. Apple:: Pie
8. Halloween:: Tomorrow
9. Manageable:: Size
10. Trick:: or Treat

The Friday Update

Not too much to report, frankly.

Tuesday night a man came over to look at the condo and see if he was interested or not in moving in. We'll see what happens. I'm not convienced he's going to move in, but we'll see. Frankly, I'm not sure how he'd fit in.

Frankly, I'm very comfortable right now with just Casey. I would love to figure out some way to make it work with just the two of us. But, as the last few months with insurance and car registration has proved, I don't see how it will work for too much longer. :(

Last night's Bible study turned out very interesting. The school is currently doing teacher's conferences, so we spent quite a bit of time figuring out where we were meeting, then setting up. One of the other guitar players showed up late without his stuff, and he was supposed to do one of the songs solo. But we left that song out and everything else went fine. And it's probably a good thing we cut that song out because we got such a late start by the time everything came together. Still, it was a good night.

Thursday Threesome for October 27th

Brought to us this week by stupid yeard decorations and The Back Porch.

Onesome: Painted-- Hey! Are you getting all painted up on Monday and going out and about? What are you dressing up as? ...or are you staying home and handing out goodies? ...or sitting in the dark and wishing they would all just go away? Come on !
Staying home and handing out goodies. Don't get too many kids. Something about all the stairs that would have to be climbed, I think.

Twosome: Garden-- In the garden of your mind, where do you go to relax for a few moments? Off to the beach? ...to the mountains? ...to a different world? ...or maybe a stroll though an old Victorian landscape?
Pleasant memories from the past. Of characters from a favorite series, like Trixie Belden.

Threesome: Gnomes-- Okay, we have to know: what do you think about garden gnomes and pink flamingos and such? I mean other than there seems to be a local ordinance that you have to have at least one or the other in your front yard if you live in South Florida?
I think the first sentence of my post says it all. I really think they look ugly. Don't see why anyone would want then in their yard. And my grandma had lots of them.

See Dick and Jane

Saturday, when we went to see Serenity, there was a guy there passing out invites to see a preview of Fun with Dick and Jane. Normally, I'm not a Jim Carrey fan, but I was interested in seeing this film because they spent a week filming part of it at a former bank near my house. Frankly, I wasn't sure if I'd like it or not, but knew I'd have to spend the money to see it.

Naturally, a chance to see it for free was something I was interested in, so I jumped at the chance. Casey and I went down last night to see it.

We got there right as the deadline approached. They wanted us there really early, which was hard with eating dinner and working until quitting time. But we got down there and got in. The theater was packed, and we wound up high in the back.

And the movie was lots of fun. I laughed the entire way through.

Set in 2000, Dick is promoted to VP of communications just before his company stock tanks because of embezzlement. And Jane has just quit her job to stay home full time. After a few months of struggling to stay afloat, things start to get desperate.

I know, it sounds depressing, like a drama or something. Trust me, this is a very funny black comedy. It doesn't come out until right before Christmas, so you'll have to wait to see it. But when it comes out, trust me. It's well worth it.

As Always a Busy Saturday

If it weren't for Saturday, I'd say nothing exciting happened in my life ever. This Saturday was no exception.

Left the condo early because I wanted to get down to Westwood in time for a book signing Saturday morning. Ok, early is relative. The signing started at 11. I didn't leave until 10:30, but traffic was light and I made it down not too late. Signing books were Lee Goldberg and Pari Noskin Taichert. Lee even had a copy of the cover of the first Monk novel for me, too. There was a small group, maybe a dozen or so, and most of them hung around and chatted the entire time, which was something new for me. Pari remembered me from her trip out here a year and a half ago to promote the first one. Ok, it did take a little prompting. Still, it always shocks me when an author I've met once says, "You look familiar." I honestly don't expect that until a few signings or a few e-mail exchanges have happened.

Also there, but buying books this time, was Harley Jane Kozak. Since I've really been commenting on The Lipstick Chronicles since I met her in April, I introduced myself again. She was thrilled to meet me and planned to make the rest of the authors jealous by telling them. Of course, if they'd come out where on a book tour, I'd be happy to meet them, too. I'm not picky, I'll meet any author I enjoy reading. :)

Then I decided to do something I'd wanted to do for months. Since I had a free afternoon, now was the time.

I headed to Forrest Lawn. It's a chain of memorial parks in Southern CA. Master's does concerts there every year, but I've never gone. The reason I wanted to go, however, was because I'd heard Disney was buried there. Morbid, I know, but I needed to try to see.

I didn't think about the fact that I didn't know which park it was, so I decided to try the Hollywood park first. After looking at their Patriot Hall, I asked and found out that he was at the Glendale park. So I headed out there, navigating by county maps with little street info. Yes, that met I spent quite a bit of time wandering around Glendale. Finally found the park, then spent some time wandering around to find the area I was looking for. So, after three hours, I finally found out...that it was in a private area not open to the general public. All that time for nothing.

The man who finally told me this was very chatty. Talked me into seeing a stain glass replica of the Last Supper they have there (which was very impressive), but then just kept talking to me, even after I'd taken the keys out of my pocket. By that point, I was getting hungry and ready to get home. Finally did mange to get away without being rude.

That night, Matt, Casey, and I went to see Serenity, finally. As I felt with the TV series, it had it's flaws, but it was a good movie and finally answered questions left from the canceled series. I don't think anyone who wasn't already a fan of the show would enjoy it, but if you were, it is well worth seeing. If you can. I bet it's out of the theaters completely in another week or two.

Word Association for October 23rd

If I've still got an hour, does it still count as doing it on Sunday?

Taken from here.

1. Infiltration:: Undercover
2. Nice person:: Friend
3. Debt:: Loan
4. Settle down:: Shhh!
5. Thomas:: Doubting
6. Unforgivable:: Sin
7. Medicine:: Cabinet
8. A year from now:: 2006
9. Neighbors:: Next-door
10. Dripping:: Wet

Meme Day

Seems like I need to do Sunday's Word Association first and then the Thursday Threesome.

1. On the verge:: of a Miralce
2. Tempestuous:: Temper (didn't even read the entier word)
3. Coherent:: Thought
4. Near death:: Experience
5. Illiterate:: Masses
6. Why not?:: Because
7. Period:: End of Discussion
8. Long lost:: Brother
9. Torrid:: Affair
10. Nail:: (in the) Coffin

And now the Thursday Threesome, brought to us this week by nature and The Back Porch.

Onesome: Butterflies-- 'Tis the end of butterfly season, at least here in the Northern Hemisphere (hey, we have readers and respondents in the Southern); what are looking forward to seeing around the yards and neighborhoods in the next few months. (...besides snow, unless that's all you have staring back at you during the Winter months!)
The few things that change here are for the worse. Trees are bare. I actually prefer spring and summer.

Twosome: are-- Are your sports teams doing okay this Fall? Baseball is down to the final stretch and it's time to chose up sides! ...and football is darned interesting at the six-week mark? No interest? How about curling ?
No interest at all, so I guess you could say my teams are doing just fine. :)

Threesome: Free-- What is your favorite "freebie"? That 'buy one, get one free' sale? ...the ice cream cone from your local shop on your birthday? The samples at Starbucks? Inquiring minds and all that...
I'd love a buy one get one free for books! Free ice cream cones are pretty cool, too.

The Disneyland Report

Saturday was a wonderful day.

Of course, it started way too early. How can getting to a place an hour away mean getting up so early?

Picked up Debbie a little later then we had planned. Then we weren't sure how to best get on the 5 from there, so we pulled off the road to find out. By the time we did all that, it was 8:15 by the time we got there, but Angelique was waiting for us. We went into the park and got started on the day's fun. Angelique and I went to Peter Pan's Flight while the others went to Star Tours. Then we met up for the new Buzz Lightyear attraction. You know, it's quite fun. Of course, if my aim were better, I would do better.

Everything was open this time around, so we got to do everything. Or attempt to do everything. It was crowded! Of course, I heard some people talking about this being the end of Fall Break, so that probably explains it. It was wonderful to ride Space Mountain again. It just didn't seem different enough to be closed for two years. And everyone let me drag them on Small World. Plus I got Dole Whip against after missing out on it for two years.

My biggest disappointment actually had to do with shopping. I wanted to get more stuff having to do with the 50th Anniversary. I did get one ornament. But I was eyeing the golden Mickey ears. Plus I actually looked at the pin collection, and I so want several of those, including some 50th anniversary stuff. Matt also wanted to spend more time shopping then we did. I had figured we could shop after midnight because stores are open later. We'd just go to the big Disney store at Downtown Disney. Yeah, the one that isn't open past closing. Which we discovered after leaving the park. But we were all so tired it was probably for the best.

Yesterday, I spent the day trying to recover. After the long hours (got home at 2 AM) and not sleeping well too nights in a row, I was a little tired. Did sleep through both church services and attended the SAYF. Still, I wasn't feeling well, so I took my temp last night. I was running a slight fever.

Naturally, I turned off my alarm clock and slept in this morning. I've now spent the rest of the day trying to get my tempurature back up to normal. It was probably just exhaustion, but I think staying home was the best idea possible. Tomorrow I should be back to work no problem.

I Don't Have a One Track Mind

Tomorrow is annual Disney Day from the college. Of course I'll be at Disneyland from 8 AM to Midnight. And this year I'm going with Angelique, Casey, Debbie, and Matt. I so can not wait!

Last week, I started posting my reviews over at epinions as well. I'm really not sure how it's going. Reviews certainly get votes on them, but I've been getting quite a share of Somewhat Helpful votes. See, they have four levels, Very Helpful, Helpful, Somewhat Helpful, and Not Helpful. I haven't gotten any of those last ones yet. They also allow comments. Some have been helpful. Some haven't.

In the non-helpful comment is this one from the new VeggieTales Christmas CD. "I'm glad you can tell us about the characters, but what do they sound like?" Um, adults doing cartoon character voices. From a different person but along the same lines on a regular CD, "I'm happy you can tell us about each song, but what does it sound like?"

See, one thing I've found is that they list new reviews, so you're going to get people reading the review who has not looked up the product. I'm not used to this, but trying to keep it in mind. Still, it seems rather crazy to me to be reading a review of an item you don't have any interest in already. Seems like a waste of time if you ask me. But then again, they didn't.

It is frustrating when I work like crazy to write a great review and have it barely make Helpful. I wonder if it's because I have a "new" tag next to my name. It might be "I don't want to give too many very helpfuls to someone their first month here." It might also be because they like long reviews over there. As in, if I hit 400 words, I'm winding down, but most people are just warming up at 1000. This isn't a homework assignment. And if I start talking about too much more, then I'll start giving away plot points.

So I'm trying to determine if the problem is my reviewing style doesn't fit there or if it's a pride issue or some of both.

And just when you thought I'd stop blogging about reviewing. :)

Have I mentioned tomorrow is Disney Day?

Not much else has been going on in my life. That wasn't a complaint. That was bragging. :)

I forget to turn the timer on on the VCR last night, so I only got to see the last 20 minutes of Alias. And, since I was recording for a co-worker, that's all she will get to see, too. :(

Tomorrow I'm going to Disneyland!!!

We did a couple songs we don't do that often at youth group last night. As always, rehersal went just fine, but we had technical difficulties during the actual worship time. Oh well, I want to mix those songs in more.

Disneyland.

I've been listening to some of my Disney songs all afternoon to get myself in the Disney mood, and a co-worker just noticed. :)

This is a college view weekend here at the college, so maybe I'd better go so I can get dinner before it becomes too crowded and it takes me hours to get it. Of course, I have Bible study tonight so I'm not actually leaving campus until 7:20 or so.

Speaking of college view, one of the guys from a message board a friend set up is here this weekend checking out the college. Stopped by for a minute so we could meet face to face. That was nice.

I won't update tomorrow. Why? I'm going to Disneyland!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Thursday Threesome for October 13th

Brought to us this week by a national institution and The Back Porch. (Yeah, I'm stretching this week. Give me a break.)

Onesome: County-- The wild card for today: Do you know approximately how many people live in your county? It used to be that information was only available at the library; I'm betting most of us will be looking it up on the net!
Um, lots and lots? I live in LA County. I can't count that high. :)

Twosome: Library-- Do you use the library system where you live? ...or are you one of those who has to own the book (and can afford to)? Students: how good is your school library? ...and do use it or the net for most things?
I buy my books. especially since these days I seem to be buying books in series I love and getting them autographed. Not exactly sure I can afford to, but I do anyway.

Threesome: System-- Hey, what system do you use to store/keep track of your books and music and whatever it is that tends to outgrow its living area? Do you alphabetize? ...sort by color? ...genre?
Books and DVD's are pretty much random on shelves or boxes in the garage. And they're quickly outgrowing the room I have. I have 180 CD's in a case, then the rest in a couple boxes.

Happy Columbus Day

Yes, that's right. I'm acknowledging what today is. And frankly, I think Columbus has gotten a very bad rap.

As I told my high school history teacher (which was probably when he knew I'd be a handful), it's idealistic to think that if Columbus had never discovered America someone else wouldn't have. Furthermore, he had no control over what would happen after it happened. The years when Europeans treated natives horribly wasn't his fault. He was only responible for what he did, which I know wasn't always the best.

And, for the record, no one was responsible for the diseases that killed thousands of the Native Americans. Very seldom is disease the responsibility of any one person. It was tragic. I'm not denying that. But to blame it on someone who had nothing to do with it isn't fair.

And there was something in the second paragraph that you might have missed. Yes, Columbus discovered America.

See, if I find a new author, I'll tell everyone I discovered this great new writer. He might have 20 books out, but I just discovered him because I didn't know about him before. Columbus may not have been the first to find America, but he discovered it for a whole continent of people who didn't know about it before.

So there you have it. My anti-PC rant about Columbus day. And, since the day is almost over, hope it was a happy one.

Word Association for October 9th

And a happy birthday to my mom.

Taken from here.

1. Quirk:: Personality
2. Crystal::Castle
3. Pet Peeve:: Loud Music
4. Cuban:: Ricky Ricardo
5. Breasts:: Chicken
6. Whispers:: Secret
7. Complicated:: Puzzle
8. Promise me:: You'll do something
9. Murder:: Mystery
10. Filament:: Light Bulb

Good Times

I was disappointed I didn't get to blog yesterday because it was such a good day.

You see, last week at work I had lots to get done. My boss was on vacation, and we'd need to close September as soon as he got back. And I was way behind on my work to do that.

Well, guess who procrastinated until Friday to get it all done.

And guess who got it all done!!!! And that included getting lots of bank statements in the mail yesterday, which meant I needed to get them done yesterday, too. I was so excited when I finished everything.

Of course, working hard was the reason I didn't get a chance to update yesterday.

Well, that and the fact that I watched Cinderella when I got home last night. And it was as I was going to bed I discovered what a historic day Tuesday was. It was the day that the final Disney animated movie made it to DVD. And how did I learn that? By looking at a list of titles and realizing I had them all on DVD. The collector in me is quite happy about that.

I also checked my VHS collection and realized I was only one short of getting them all on VHS. Home on the Range. Ugh. Still, the obsessive collector in me now needs to track that one down so I can say I have them all. Hopefully I can find a good deal on it.

Yes, I need help. Wonder if there's a collection of self-help books that will help me.

Thursday Threesome for October 6th

Brought to us this week by nature and The Back Porch.

Onesome: Humming-- Humming a little tune are we? Do you have any new musical finds to share with the group? ...or how about an oldie you wished you could find to add to your collection?
I'm still loving Shaun Groves' White Flag a lot.

Twosome: Dragonfly-- Do you have dragonflies where you live? If so, are there any local names you've heard of for them rather than the 'western classic'?
Don't think we have them here, but I remember seeing them growing up. Less of a desert up there. And I always called them dragonflies.

Threesome: Search-- Quick! What was the last thing you searched for on the Net? (...or around the house if you've been holding back here . )
I don't remember the last time I searched for something on the net. Around the house, it was scissors the other night. The most frustrating thing? They were where I thought I had left them and where I swear I had looked. Hey, they don't call it a Mark search for nothing.

Guess I Should Update

Let's see, what's been going on?

Last Monday we got rain showers and thunder and lightening. Then we got the wild fires and lots of smoke. Not to mention the dry wind. Yep, it's fall. Dry, dry weather.

Friday night I went to a book signing for Mary Anna Evans at the local Borders. Which worked out well since I had just finished her first book at lunch time. She was very nice.

And they're rearranging some stuff in the story and have new bookcases. Frankly, I'm excited because it means hardcover and large paperbacks will be mixed in with the mass markets.

Been really enjoying the return of my TV shows. Amazing Race, Lost, Veronica Mars, Alias. Life is good again.

Decided it would be fun to get a cold last week. Pretty much over it now, although I did just buy dessert instead of making it for game night. We played Apples to Apples, and I wasn't hosting! It's much easier to get through all the cards when you don't have the expantion packs.

Tonight after work, we're going to Wal-Mart to buy Cinderella and Staples to buy more ink for my printer. It's only been out of ink for four or five months. Hated to rush into things.

Word Association for October 2nd

Can you believe it's October already?

Found here.

1. Quaint:: Idea
2. Rind:: Mellon
3. Disease:: Sick
4. Queer:: Strange
5. Pork:: Rind
6. Soaked:: Tub
7. Skeleton:: Bones
8. Mold:: Mildue
9. Finished:: Done
10. Buffalo:: Chips

Thursday Threesome for September 29th

Another month almost over. I'm just getting used to it being September, too.

Anyway, this week's edition is brought to us by me and The Back Porch. Okay, so I used to be a lost sheep before God found me. (Yes, I know I deserve a trip to the pool now.)

Onesome: Little-- by little we work our way through the week. Do you have anything fun coming up this weekend or in the next week? ...or maybe you're ready for a little relaxation?
Well, I'm supposed to be making Peach Cobbler for the game night this week, but with the cold both Casey and I are working on, it may not happen. Either way, I could use a good dose of relaxation.

Twosome: Lost-- Do you get lost easily? ...or are you one of those people who always seems to know where they are?
I generally know where I am at all times because I make a point of knowing directions.

Threesome: Sheep-- ...and goats and rabbits and, and, and: What is the favorite critter you look forward to seeing at the petting zoo (if you're a fair goer)? ...and if not, well, which one would just as soon not run across on a walk around the block? I mean, if you were the type who walked around the block and the farm animals escaped from Farmer John's truck on his way to the Fair...
Bunnies are cute.

Quick Update

I don't have time for a long post like I had planned to make, but I do have a couple quick things to post about.

Basically, today has been great!

1) I'm a top 100 reviewer at Amazon!!! I could still drop back out before I'm there to stay for a while, I know, but having made it once excites me so much!!!!!! (And I'm sure all of you agree it should after all my whining about not being there the last few months.)

2) I've finally finished August bank recs. Yes, I've been a very bad boy and been very behind. But I'm caught up now!

3) My new moniter came in at work, so I have a cool looking flat screen. I think it's bigger then my old moniter, too. But I think it catches a little more glare. I'll have to play around with it some.

And tonight is a new Lost and the season premier of Veronica Mars. Today has been a great day.

Broken Guards, Book Signings, Game Nights, and Hanging Up on Friends

And that's just Saturday!

Friday night was career Bible study again. Finished Ecc. 9. We've officially been on the book for over a year now. Of course, I am highly enjoying the study, so I can't complain too loudly.

Saturday morning, I got an early start to my day because I had lots I wanted to do. Starting with cutting my hair. I put the guard I wanted to use on. It felt a little loose and even came off a few times. But as I was taking a swipe while trying to make polish things off, it officially broke. Fortunately, I was really done, but now I need to replace it. And it was my favorite guard, too. :( On the bright side, I never wound up cutting my hair with the bare clippers, so I didn't have to shave, which I wasn't looking to do this weekend. Of course, no one would believe me if I said it was an accident.

The main reason I got up early was because there was a book signing I wanted to go to for Taffy Cannon's new book. Met up with Angelique there. We had fun wandering the bookstore and talking books, and got to talk to Taffy for a few minutes as well.

Then it was back up to finish cleaning because I was hosting the game night. We played Catch Phrase and had lots of fun doing it. And Carol brought Fudge Cupcakes from Joanne Fluke's recipe. They were so good.

Speaking of whom, she's one of the authors I've contacted to donate books for the FUNdraiser at Jix. She sent me the books so I could pass them on, but she also sent me a copy of Sugar Cookie in paperback for me. Wasn't expecting that, and it was a nice thought.

During the game night, I got a call. Now I want objective opinion if I was rude or not. I didn't recognize the name, number, or area code on my caller ID. In fact, I couldn't tell if it was a name or not because I glanced at it briefly. I answered the phone, and the person on the other end said, "Would you be interested if I could lower the interest rate on your mortgage." Thinking it was an unsolicited phone call, I told him no, asked him to stop calling me, and hung up. After all, I had a condo full of guest.

A couple minutes later, the phone rang again. Same number/name. I answered, "Look, I told you not to call me any more." The person on the other end said, "Didn't you recognize my voice?" After a few seconds of trying to place it, it dawned on me. Matt! I would have been more embarrassed had he not tried to fool me. And it is hard to recognize voices when you've got a house full of people talking while you're on the phone.

And a note to Matt. In the future, don't assume I'll recognize you voice. All my friends do that and I usually don't on a sentence or two. Go ahead and identify yourself. It'll save you from having to call me back when I hang up on you. Not that I would have had I known.

Of course, he must be mad at me. He said he'd call me back last night, but didn't. Then again, I was at church when I told him I'd be home.

Word Association for September 25th

Brought to us by Unconscious Mutterings.

1. Crave:: Sweets
2. Whole package:: Everything
3. Roommates:: Needed to make ends meet
4. 5:30:: half past quitting
5. Lesbian:: Sinner (just like everyone else)
6. Poignant:: Memory
7. Hurtful:: Remark
8. You and I:: Together
9. Grateful:: Dead
10. Giggle:: Amy Grant (old song from her second project.)

Was this word association or phrase association?

Almost

That seems to be a pretty good summary of my life right now.

I was going to be very good this year, and not listen to Christmas music until next week. I had picked next week because that's when new Christmas CD's by some of my favorite artists come out. I knew I'd have to listen to them right away so I could review them. And that was the only reason. Really!

Anyway, then I started reading Fourth Dawn by Bodie and Brock Thoene. It ends about six months before the first Christmas, and I just couldn't take it. I pulled my box out of the closet and started listening to a few.

Still, considering I didn't do this in July or August, I still say it's pretty impressive.

Meanwhile, after almost a month (29 days) stuck at the same rank at Amazon, I finally moved today! And it was up, not down!!! I'm currently tied for 102. Now, naturally, I could go back down to 103. But the guy I'm tied with hasn't written a review since June 2004 and that was his only 2004 review. Translation, his new votes will be much fewer and further between because his reviews will be buried on review pages. So I should have the spot all to myself before too long. And, he was just tied with 101 last week, so maybe I can catch him without too much more difficulty. In fact, the next four people seem to be rather close, so I might be a top 100 review before I know it. Definitely still think I can do it before the end of the year.

It's so close, I can taste it. And victory always tastes sweet.

In other news, we had a dead group at Bible study last night. Trying to lead songs with echos, and no one was echoing. And there were lots more females then males. We skipped the last song because it was our third echo of five.

And I'm so happy TV shows are back. Lost was wonderful Wednesday night. Survivor has hooked me again. And I watched CSI last night. I think it was the one filmed near me (trailer park) but it also made me convienced I had no desire to continue watching the show. Too depressing with lots of stuff I don't need to be watching.

So, if I cut it, CSI: Miami, and Without a Trace out of my schedule, that gives me 7 hours of prime time TV shows to follow this fall. It'll be up to 8 when 24 comes back in January. I can live with that for sure. I will be strong and not watch any new shows. I will be strong and not watch any new shows....

Of course, this doesn't count Fox News, which is currently 6 hours a week, but that will go down shortly I'm sure. And any reruns/TV on DVD I want to watch. Still, this leaves me lots more time for reading or other persuits. I'm actually very happy with this.

Thursday Threesome for September 22nd

Brought to us this week by mobsters and The Back Porch.

Onesome - Gunning - What is it that you have been gunning for lately?
That's easy. Making the top 100 at Amazon.com. But I seem to be stuck at 103. Haven't moved one way or the other for about a month now.

Twosome - Down - What brings you down?
People being mean to me. Frustration with how I'm behaving. And when I'm extremely shallow, things no going my way.

Threesome - Romance - What's the most romantic movie scene you can recall? Are there any scenes that get your heart-a-fluttering?
The ending of Beauty and the Beast. I tend to watch movies where the romance is a sub-plot, so this ones a little tougher for me.

Weekends Rock!

Especially because that seems to be about the only time anything exciting happens in my life these days. Otherwise, I have very little to blog about.

Saturday was game night, an out in Santa Clarita week. We went bowling. Got in three and a half games in the time we prepaid for. Konrad won two and I won one. But boy am I sore today! My right wrist and my left hip especially. No super high scores. My high for the night was 129.

After that, we went to Cold Stone for ice cream. Josh and Bonnie met up with us there, so we got to see them for a little while.

Sunday turned out to be pretty interesting. I found out when I got to Sunday school that we had indeed decided to turn out SNYF (Sunday Night Youth Fellowship) into a SAYF (Sunday Afternoon Youth Fellowship). Last I'd heard, we were thinking about it. Not only was it going to be during worship team practice, but it was also going to be during the time my family talks. And we really couldn't reschedule because of everyone else's activities. So I went late. It was a great time, when I was there.

I also got to be a couch potatoe this weekend, watching both Hitchhiker's Guide and Toy Story. It's been way too long since I watched the later. It's such a good movie!

It's looking like my brother and sister-in-law won't be out for Christmas this year. Now there's talk of us possibly going there and them coming out here for Thanksgiving. We'll just have to see what happens I guess. Either way it will be weird. We always go to my uncle and aunt's for Christmas dinner, but I've also spent every Christmas since he was born with my brother.

I hope we can work something out because it will kill mom if it doesn't happen. She's having a hard enough time with the holidays right now with all the recent deaths in the family. Bro and SiL not being out will be a huge blow. And yes, the thought of not seeing them has made me pretty upset as well.

Word Association for September 18th

Borrowed from here.

1. Less filling:: Tastes Great
2. Glue:: Gun
3. Surprise me:: But buy what I want
4. Model:: Home
5. Fee:: Paid
6. Microphone:: Singing
7. Choices:: Changes
8. To the bone:: Bad
9. Run!:: Away!
10. Appeal:: Higher Court

Thursday Threesome for September 15th

This week, brought to us by me and The Back Porch.

Onesome: Daily-- Hmmm... The tough one first? Sure! What part of your daily routine could you simply not do without? ...and just to make it interesting, your morning coffee is a given, so try something else!
Actually, I can do without my morning cup of coffee quite nicely since I don't drink. coffee that is. I'd have a hard time doing without my morning internet time.

Twosome: Dilly-- Okay, fess up; what's the latest really good one you've pulled? Well, at least something you can share with the gang here .
I can't remember that far back.

Threesome: Dally-- What is your favorite way to dally away some time instead of working on a project? Do you read, play games, look for lost kittens, study cloud formations? Come on...
Did you know you can find information on the most obscure stuff on the internet? Here, let me review that book I just finished. I wonder if there's anything good on TV....

Doldrums

I guess that's what to call it. I just don't know what's up with me these days. I just feel kinda blah.

And I've been having some frustrating experiences on line recently. Last week, I got into a heated discussion of who should be blamed for the mess in New Orleans. I was the only one saying that it shouldn't all be blamed on Bush. Granted, I wasn't making the best points I could have, but by the end I was being called a blind ideologue and worse over it. Guess I'm stupid.

Meanwhile, over on Blogs for Bush, I once again made a comment to a couple of the commenters who treat anyone who doesn't follow the blog line 110% horribly. And guess what. I was ripped apart for it.

So now I'm hated by the left and the right.

This week, I saw a discussion on whether on-line blogs and reviews help sell books. People started jumping on Amazon reviews as worthless. The same person who wants to get free copies of books to review on his blog. One of them is a total jerk who is a major hypocrite (and was involved in the discussion last week on the anti-Bush side). I should know better then to respond to him and I try to ignore his posts, but this week I just couldn't do it.

I've made quite an impression on The Lipstick Chronicles. I've been teasing Susan McBride about getting some revisions done, and now I'm being mentioned in posts. Guess I'm really going to have to read her first book next. Of course, the fact that it's on my nightstand to read it beside the point.

And of course, Jix is wild and crazy right now and fun for the most part. Yet with all this other stuff going on, my teasing defense is down a little. And I'm slipping in and out of pity mode every so often.

I've been stuck at 103 at Amazon for a couple weeks now. The guy who was right a head of me for a while has made it to top 100 status, but I just sit. Of course, the good news is, I'm not moving backwards. In fact, I think hardly anyone in my 10 person bracket is moving either way.

I'm even feeling apathetic to youth group right now. Got an e-mail last night saying we might be moving our SNYF's from Sunday Night to Sunday afternoon. There are lots of very good reasons for it, but all I can think about is how it effects me. I know I came across as incredibly selfish to Pastor Jon today, but that's how I'm feeling right now.

I think most of it might be sleep. Someone has been staying up too late the last few nights. First it was reading, then last night it was listening to a commentary on the Crusade set. I have a feeling if I start getting good sleep the next few nights it will do wonders for snapping me out of my mood.

Running Like Crazy

Before I get to my weekend, there's one thing I forgot to brag about last week. Blog, I mean blog about!

Monday night, I popped over to Lee's blog to find this as the top post. You had better believe it made my day!

Casey was gone this weekend for his grandparent's 50th anniversary party. That means lots of time to hang out and enjoy having the condo to myself (a very rare occurance since I moved in two years ago), right? Wrong!

Friday night was career Bible study. Very good study on Ecc. 9. Of course I was late for it. I got started writing the story of Brian and my fight over Honey and didn't want to stop. It's with editors now, so watch a message board near you (especially if it's Jix) for details on getting your pass to the event.

Saturday started out early. We'd decided it was the best day for my family to talk, so we talked before I left for the Dodger game.

Yes. You read that right. After ten years in Southern CA, I've finally been to Dodger Statium. Everyone acted like it was some special place. Not really. Especially since I'm not a sports fan. We had nose bleed seats, but it was fun because I got to spend time hanging out with the other staff whlie watching the kids.

Another great aspect of that was who I drove. Two girls. It was nice to have jr. high passengers who weren't out to drive me crazy and get into trouble.

Got back in time to pick up Matt and head to the game night. There turned out to be four of us, so Konrad and Carol taught us Rook, a game that only works with four. I hate the idea of bidding, but Carol and I managed to win anyway. It was a very close game, however.

Sunday was up for church, although not early enough to be on time. Next week, I need to go to bed when I get home from game night instead of getting on the internet. Anyway, it was very good. Nick is an absolutely wonderful teacher in jr. high. And pastor's message on a Christian's response to national tragedy was also great. Motivated me to get more involved in the fundraising at Jix, which has led to some of the auction items I have up right now.

The afternoon was lazy, although I spent most of it here in front of my computer. Did go back for a parent's meeting, but didn't learn too much. Of course, as staff, I didn't really expect to.

Casey was home when I got back. Sounded like his weekend was just as busy but equally good. At one point I unloaded on him things going on in my life. Ministry, whether I want to have kids or even get married, emotions. You know, the stuff guys don't normally talk about. But it was only for five minutes or so, so that hardly counts, right?

Never Forget...to Learn

As I'm sure everyone knows, today is the fourth anniversary of the terrible terrorist attacks on this country. Everywhere we look, there are specials and comments about what happened four years ago. And that's good. We need to remember what happened to us that day.

But have we learned anything from it?

What are we doing to stop these attacks from happening in the future?

And have we made the government any better to help us with a future attack?

Looking at what is happening in Lousianna and Mississippi, it seems obvious the answer to that last one is no. And since the responsibility for helping in a crisis like this falls on local, state, and federal government, I do blame all three equally.

Maybe once the rescueing is done and the rebulding starts, we can get past the politicing and start looking for the real solution to these questions.

In the mean time, we need to learn from these two tragedy. And if the politicans won't and just want to point the finger at each other, I say we vote all of them out of office, Democrat and Republican alike.

Word Association for Sept 11th

This week's word association.

1. Related:: Family
2. Soothing:: Cool
3. Flashback:: Lost
4. Turmoil:: Crisis
5. Immense:: Huge
6. Guitar:: Worship
7. Nonsense:: Misty
8. Blame:: Game
9. Childlike:: Behavior
10. Duff:: Stuff