I was looking for today's "It's a Group Thing" term and came across one that I really liked. My sophmore year in high school we marched George Gershwin's Rhapsody in Blue. It pleased me to no end to find today's term:

A Rhapsody of Blues

.: 46 words at 12:48 PM in It's a Group Thing, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: Pings (0) :: All the Voices Say... (0) :.

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I tagged Kristine, so she's today's Blog Tag site.

.: 10 words at 12:43 PM in Geeky Things, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: Pings (0) :: All the Voices Say... (0) :.

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For anyone who's interested, there are new pictures up at Picture Fish.

.: 13 words at 09:15 PM in Picture Fish Update, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: Pings (0) :: All the Voices Say... (0) :.

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Melly tagged me! I know who I'm going to tag.... :-)

.: 11 words at 05:24 PM in Geeky Things, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: Pings (0) :: All the Voices Say... (3) :.

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Steven and I have been slacking in the fitness/health things we used to do: we used to go to the gym three or four times a week and we used to eat better during the week. Now, I'm lucky if I do fifteen or twenty mintues once or twice a day on the StairMaster, I eat crappy all the time, and I haven't been into the gym in months. I'm in pretty good shape, but I would like to lose a little weight since I've been unhappy with how I look in photos lately, especially with how my neck just seems to be fusing into one big column. Okay, that's a little extreme, but I'm unhappy with how I look.

Steven and I actually made it to the gym last week and we were talking about how we've really become sloths when it comes to our workouts. I am one of those people that work best when I have a clear goal and, preferrably, a clear reward. Steven asked me how much weight I would like to lose and I told him, ideally, fifteen pounds. I jokingly told him he needed to set me a reward for part of that so I could get motivated and he agreed.

So now we have a bet: I am to lose five pounds by the end of the first week in September - a third of my goal. If I do so, I get five intern massages from the local massage school (get your mind out of the gutter; real massages). If I don't, I think he's got in mind that I have to take him out to a really nice dinner, but we never agreed on that. Of course, the "fear" of having to pay if I don't make my goal might help inspire me.

Anyway, I am going to try and do the following:

• Drink eight glasses of water a day
• Go to the gym and do weights at least three times a week
• StairMaster, at no less than level six, for thirty minutes four times a week
• Eat a better at lunch time - no fries, no desserts
• Tan at least three times a week

I'm hoping that by posting here I will become a little bit more accountable for my actions; that's the same reason I post my To Do Lists here. If I post them and someone else can see them, I'm more likely to do whatever it is I am supposed to. Wish me luck!

.: 418 words at 03:59 PM in Daily Ramblings, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: Pings (0) :: All the Voices Say... (2) :.

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A winner in my Amazon.com Gold Box Offers today.

.: Pyrex Oven Thermometer: wow. I save a big $0.80 by buying this as a Gold Box Offer. Whooptydo.

.: Farberware Classic Stack 'N Steam 3-Quart Saucepot and Steamer: nice looking saucepot, but Steven wouldn't use this.

.: Sex and the City - The Complete Third Season: OMG! Something I actually want in my Gold Box! Being the good friend that I am, though, I am letting Christine buy it for herself. Finally, success in the Gold Box, even if it's not my success.

.: 96 words at 10:35 AM in The Gold Box, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: Pings (0) :: All the Voices Say... (4) :.

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Time for Christine's This-or-That Tuesday:

• Charlie Chaplin or Buster Keaton?
Charlie Chaplin.
• Laurel & Hardy or Abbott & Costello?
Abbott & Costello. I love the "Who's on first?" bit.
• Marx Brothers or Three Stooges?
Marx Brothers. I hate the Three Stooges.
• David Letterman or Jay Leno?
David Letterman. I think Jay Leno is so unfunny.
• "Saturday Night Live" or "Mad TV"?
I used to watch SNL all the time, but that was so long ago.
• Adam Sandler ("Mr. Deeds") or Mike Myers ("Austin Powers")?
Depends. I loved "Happy Gilmore" but didn't thing "Big Daddy" was funny. I love Mike Myers in almost everything (though some of the stuff in Austin Powers, like Fat Bastard, I don't find funny at all). I guess we'll go with Mike Myers.
• Jerry Seinfeld or Ray Romano ("Everybody Loves Raymond")?
Good Lord! Neither! I can't stand either of them.
• George Carlin or Bill Cosby?
Bill Cosby.
• "Monty Python's Flying Circus" or "Rowan & Martin's Laugh-In"?
Monty Python, of course!
• Gone but not forgotten...John Belushi or Chris Farley?
Chris Farley. I love "Tommy Boy."

.: 179 words at 12:38 AM in This-or-That Tuesday, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: Pings (0) :: All the Voices Say... (2) :.

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Here's PromoGuy's Monday Mission 2.30:

1. What is your favorite snack food? Does anyone you know have weird tastes in snacks?
I guess favorite snack food would have to be something mundane like chips. I love Doritos (both cool ranch and cheesy ones), French Onion Sun Chips, and Funyuns. Now the Funyuns might be a little strange...

2. Ever caught yourself saying "well it can't get any worse" and it does? What's the story there?
I feel like that all the time at work. Recently we had told a client that we would be finished coding her site by 8:00 at night and at 9:00 the problems with the code started multiplying. Luckily, we were able to get them fixed pretty quickly.

3. What's your attention span like and how has it served you?
My attention span is pretty good. As Chrsitine can tell you, I *hate* to have things on my plate just waiting to be done. I usually get things completed as soon as I can.

4. Do you believe in the existence of extra-terrestrials?
Yes. Seems silly to think that in the vast universe we are the only life.

5. What do you think of the whole "crop circles" phenomenon?
It's kind of weird, but when I was in Wales (or maybe it was Scotland, but I'm pretty sure it was Wales) in the summer of 1990 my aunt, uncle, and I saw one way the hell out in the middle of no where. It seems strange that someone would have tracked out to that remote farm to make one. I do know that some of them are fake, but maybe a few are strange, unexplained things. This whole question really makes me want to go see Signs even more now. :-)

6. Ever had a time where you begin visiting with someone you don't know all that well and just find you "click" like long lost pals? Tell me about how that came to happen, and who was it? What kind of things do you have in common?
At my friend Mita's wedding shower I really got along well with one of her friends (her name is Indian, so I can't spell it). We hung out at the mendhi ceremony and at the wedding and had a good time. I wish I would have stayed in better contact with her.

7. What funeral do you remember most vividly?
I suppose that would have to be my grandmother's (my dad's mom) funeral when I was about twelve. I remember how we got her tons of birds of paradise flowers because they were here favorite and how it was my cousin Marie's birthday. I remember everyone going to my uncle Whitey's house and my uncle playing Stairway to Heaven. I remember a lot more too, but I think that's all I'll post.

BONUS: How can I forget you, girl?
You can't forget me. It's impossible. :-)

.: 490 words at 05:50 PM in Monday Missions, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: Pings (0) :: All the Voices Say... (0) :.

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It's Monday, so time to start the week out right with Jess's Participation Positives!

• I feel like I've gotten my good luck and poker playing skills back and have been doing awesome in my poker tournaments lately
• I had a hell of a time over at Michele's blogathon
• I've been working on a site for Steven's friend and he really likes what I've done so far
• I am really happy with some of the pictures that I've taken and posted in Picture Fish
• I have not missed one day posting a 1000 Words a Day post at Picture Fish
• I am now TrackBack enabled here and at Picture Fish thanks to Christine and Kristine
• I've got all of the Anita Blake books now
• We have a new The Dead Zone episode to watch
• I love and am loved

.: 139 words at 05:30 PM in Participation Positives, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: Pings (0) :: All the Voices Say... (0) :.

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Thanks to Christine I am now TrackBack enabled. So feel free to ping me all you want!

.: 17 words at 10:41 PM in Geeky Things, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: Pings (1) :: All the Voices Say... (0) :.

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Christine has decided to take the blah out of the blog and has changed her domain to Big Pink Cookie which, by the way, was partially inspired by this picture I took. Go give her some pink lovin'.

.: 39 words at 10:32 PM in Linky Love, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: Pings (1) :: All the Voices Say... (0) :.

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Two new self portraits up over at Picture Fish. Of course, they aren't as interesting as the picture I posted over at Michele's.

.: 25 words at 03:50 AM in Picture Fish Update, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: Pings (0) :: All the Voices Say... (1) :.

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Go take a look at the immoral support I provided for Michele to help her through her Blogathon. I'm sure you'll be happy you did.

.: 25 words at 01:52 AM in Linky Love, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (2) :.

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More photos up at Picture Fish. So far I haven't missed a day since I decided to participate in 1000 Words a Day. I'm so glad I got my new camera; I've been enjoying myself immensely taking all of these pictures and am turning into quite the shutterbug!

.: 50 words at 08:02 PM in Picture Fish Update, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (0) :.

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Kristine blogged about how much she hates the AOL commericals that are always on TV ("I can talk to my friends with Instant Messanger!" I always yell back at the TV, "You don't need AOL to use AIM, you idiot!"). I can't stand them either.

Last week I thought a new one was coming on when an AIM screen pops up on the TV. One guy IMs the other and says that's he's on AIM. The other guy says he is too. The other one says how easy it is to get online. The other guy says same here. The first guy goes, "AOL only costs me $23.90 a month!" The second guy types back, "What!!!??? Juno only costs me $9.50 a month! :-)" I laughed so hard at that. I guess someone at Juno must think the same thing I do every time one of those commercials comes on.

.: 150 words at 05:50 PM in Daily Ramblings, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (1) :.

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Looks like I am not my own master...

(Link courtesy of Michele)

.: 27 words at 05:38 PM in Quizzy Stuff, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (1) :.

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Least anyone forgets today is Blogathon. I am lending immoral support (and possibly cleavage shots) to Michele, but here are some other great people who are blogging today for different causes:

.: Brandy is blogging for VDAY - Until the Violence Stops

.: KD and Skarlet are blogging for Electronic Frontier Foundation

.: Laurence is blogging for Magen David Adom (The Red Star of David)

.: Lynda is blogging for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society

.: Ciscley is blogging for The House of Mews

.: Heather is blogging for Best Friends Animal Sanctuary

Good luck to all that are blogging today and thank you for doing something so worthwhile!

Update: I don't know why I didn't go ahead and do this before, but I went and donated money to Brandy, Lynda, Michele, Ciscley, and KD and Skarlet. Better late than never, I suppose!

.: 150 words at 05:01 PM in Linky Love, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (1) :.

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Nothing good in my Amazon.com Gold Box Offers today.

.: Polder Preprogrammed Cooking Thermometer: Steven could probably use one of these. Looks like a nice thermometer.

.: Sabatier Walnut Precision 14-Piece Stainless Steel Knife Set with Block: first time I've gotten knives in a long time, but I still don't want them.

.: Black & Decker HS2000 Flavor Scenter Steamer Plus Steamer and Food/Rice Cooker: as I've said several times in the past, we don't need a rice cooker.

.: Norelco 6891XL Quadra Action Shaver Deluxe: once again, I don't need a shaver.

.: Oneida True Rose 20-Piece Stainless Steel Flatware Set, Service for 4: no flatware, please. Pass

.: 114 words at 10:48 AM in The Gold Box, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (0) :.

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And now, time for today's Friday Five!

1. How long have you had a weblog? Since January 28, 2002 which also happened to be Steven's birthday.

2. What was your first post about? It was basically a "Hi. My name's Kymberlie. It's my boyfriend's birthday. Thanks, Christine for setting my blog up. Check back to see what I have to say."

3. How many changes (name, location, etc.) of your weblog have there been, if more than one? None so far.

4. What CMS (content management system) do you use? Do you like it or do you want to try something else? I use Movable Type and I just love it. Excellent software. I use it over at Picture Fish too. I even donated $45 for its use.

5. Do you read people who have both a journal and a weblog? Or do you prefer to read people who have all of their writing in one central place? I prefer central simply because it's easier to keep up with. I mostly just read blogs, though.

.: 176 words at 01:18 AM in Friday Five!, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (0) :.

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It's time for Dave's Thursday Thumb-Twiddler!

1. You've been diagnosed with a presently incurable disease, with no more than three months to live. If you had a modest chance of surviving cryogenic freezing in the next week, to be awakened in a thousand years to live a greatly extended life ... would you do it? No. You wouldn't know anyone, the world would be so radically different, it just doesn't really seem worth it.

2. A friend asks for your opinion about an original novel (painting, sculpture, song) they've created. You think it is utterly dreadful. Do you lie about it, diplomatically tone down your true feelings, or tell the complete, unvarnished truth? I would do an in-between. Let them know that I think some things need to be changed and see if we couldn't start to get the thing better bit by bit.

3. In honor of the weather, what do you think is the most enjoyable thing to do in the snow? Um, I've never actually seen snow, so I have no idea. Nothing really sounds that enjoyable, though, because I don't like the cold.

.: 188 words at 11:52 PM in Thursday Thumb-Twiddler, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (1) :.

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Time for Deb's Thursday Threesome!

Onesome: all - all the world's a stage... So what types of issues put you on your soapbox? Lots of them, but lately they are family planning, the whole stupid TIPS (spy on your neighbor) thing, trucks and SUVs on the road, and slackers.

Twosome: things - what sort of things are you most likely to purchase "spur of the moment" when shopping? Beanie babies and little cheap knick-knacks that I don't need.

Threesome: girl - sugar and spice and everything nice? Come now, what are YOU really made of? Both. I am very sweet, but I can also be a real bitch.

.: 109 words at 11:49 PM in Thursday Threesome, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (0) :.

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More entries over at Picture Fish including Christine's favorite Big Pink Cookie.

.: 13 words at 08:24 PM in Picture Fish Update, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (1) :.

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I was reading through some old comments that I had received on various posts and found one that asked me if I realized that "'family planning services' is a euphemism for 'pushing abortion.'"

Actually, I don't realize that because that statement is wrong. Let me quote a few facts from the article "International Family Planning Makes a World of Difference" from Planned Parenthood's website:

- Each year, more than 585,000 women die,­ at least one woman every minute of every day,­ due to pregnancy-related causes (USAID, 1999a).

- Family planning alone can reduce maternal mortality by 25 percent by reducing the number of high-risk pregnancies, those that are spaced too closely or occur too early or too late in a woman’s life (USAID, 1999a).

- In Thailand an expanded HIV/AIDS Prevention and Control Program led to a 90 percent decrease, from 1988–1995, in the number of men attending government clinics for STI treatment (USAID, 1999c).

- In Russia, because of limited contraceptive availability, abortion has been used as the major method of birth control. However, the recent increased availability of modern family planning methods has already resulted in a greater than one-third drop in the abortion rate (USAID, 1999a).

- The introduction of modern contraception in Hungary coincided with a 60 percent reduction in abortions. Similar results can be seen in Chile, Colombia, Mexico, South Korea, Kazakhstan, and Ukraine (USAID, 1999a).

- Family planning is crucial to women’s achieving higher status, health care and nutrition equal to men, and full participation in their country’s economic and political institutions (UNFPA, 1997).

- Slowing population growth helps poorer countries develop politically and economically, which reduces human suffering due to poverty, malnutrition, and disease (USAID, 1999a; Upadhyay & Robey, 1999).

So you see, family planning services are not about "pushing abortions." When I lost my insurance I went to Planned Parenthood and got my annual exam for $20. If I would have gone to my regular OB-GYN without insurance: $300+. No one tried to give me tracts about how great abortions are and, if I ever got pregnant, how I should rush back and have an abortion.

Family planning helps people live better, healthier lives. Family planning tries to break the cycle of poverty and hopelessness that people become trapped in. Hell, family planning helps make a dent in the abortion rate. There is no hidden agenda. There are no people that rub their hands together with glee at the thought that they will get to perform an abortion today. Family planning is simply about trying to making the best situations possible for people.

.: 431 words at 01:48 PM in Fish Tales, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (9) :.

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My day is rapidly going from bad to worse. Never a good sign when you notice all the ingredients needed for disaster popping up.

.: 24 words at 12:16 PM in Rants, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (0) :.

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Today's Theme Thursday was "Home," so you can now see where I live by wandering over to Picture Fish.

.: 20 words at 02:21 AM in Picture Fish Update, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (0) :.

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The Equity in Prescription Insurance and Contraceptive Coverage (EPICC) amendment would establish equitable coverage for contraceptive prescriptions and related medical services. Contraceptive equity means that if a health plan covers prescription drugs and devices, it has to cover contraception also. Right now women pay on average 68% more out of pocket for health care expenses than men. Tell your senators that you think it's time health care became more fair and urge them to support this important piece of legislation.

.: 81 words at 09:55 PM in Take Action!, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (4) :.

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I have always loved the little Ot-to critters, so I was excited to find out they had a new batch for download. They only have a few left, so hurry if you want to get your own. If you look down at the bottom of the side bar, you'll see my new buddy Stanley. Thanks go to Meike for pointing the new critters out.

.: 65 words at 10:32 AM in Geeky Things, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (0) :.

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More children's stuff in my Amazon.com Gold Box Offers. When will I ever get a Box that is tailored to me?

.: Grow-with-Me Gentle Vibrations Bouncer: as I've mentioned many times, I don't have any kids. No more kids stuff please.

.: Kitty Magic: Pink Persian: I'm not even sure I want to know what this does. Sounds like a p0rn video.

.: Tender Vibes Soothing Mattress: okay, this really sounds like an adult product.

.: LEGO Pirate Battle Ship: got a "we just ran out of this item" message on this product. It at least looked really cool.

.: Bebe Sounds Prenatal Listener - Deluxe Gift Set: I don't have any kids and I'm not pregnant. Total waste of time on this one, though I think prenatal things like this are very cool and a good thing to use.

.: 146 words at 09:38 AM in The Gold Box, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (0) :.

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I was browsing through An Exaltation of Larks: The Ultimate Edition by James Lipton trying to find today's "It's a Group Thing" term when I read one that I thought was really pretty. Today's term is:

A Conflagration of Fireflies

.: 40 words at 09:18 AM in It's a Group Thing, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (0) :.

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I added a few more photos over at Picture Fish. I'm trying to keep up with 1000 Words a Day, so expect to see lots of Picture Fish updates.

.: 31 words at 11:27 PM in Picture Fish Update, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (0) :.

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When you add up that I'm tired, the kitty is missing, the hormones are kicking in, my shoulder has been hurting really bad since Friday, and work stress you get one blue fish girl. Is it Friday yet?

.: 38 words at 05:30 PM in Daily Ramblings, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (1) :.

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Today was all children's stuff in my Amazon.com Gold Box Offers.

.: Magic 8 Ball Party Game: not sure exactly what you're supposed to do, but Magic 8 Balls are always cool. Wish they explained the game, though.

.: Fashion Snap Doll (Blonde): I have no kids and dolls are creepy, so this is a big miss.

.: Snugli - Early Care Newborn Soft Carrier: again, no kids.

.: Amazing Ally with Kitten: yikes! Another creepy doll!

.: Atrium Blue Glass with Flower Accent Photo Box: I love pressed flowers and this would actually be nice to keep pictures in. Very pretty.

.: 108 words at 03:07 PM in The Gold Box, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (1) :.

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There are more flowers to see over at Picture Fish including two of my 1000 Words a Day entries.

.: 19 words at 12:16 AM in Picture Fish Update, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (0) :.

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When I came home from work today the kitty was not on the porch where he has pretty much been since we adopted each other. We went to dance class, came home, watched The Dead Zone, still no kitty. I walked around the whole complex going, "Here, kitty, kitty," but he didn't show up. I am now worried that someone took him to a shelter and he's going to be put to sleep. I hope he's just out prowling around. Steven said he was here when he went to work a little before 11:00, so he's only been missing, at most, about twelve hours. I hope he comes back!

.: 109 words at 11:07 PM in Daily Ramblings, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (1) :.

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Here's PromoGuy's Monday Mission 2.29:

1. Do you remember your first encounter with computers? Tell me about that.
I remember doing BASIC programming on TRS-80s in elementary school. I thought it was the coolest thing. I also remember playing Oregon Trail, but not the snazzy graphic one, the one on the TRS-80.

2. How late can you stay up and still be functional the next day? Do you do that very often?
Routinely I stay up until 2:00 or 3:00 a.m. and get up to go to work the next morning at 8:00 a.m. I don't require a lot of sleep, but it does probably explain why I sleep until 3:00 p.m. or later on the weekends.

3. When was the last really good hug you got from another adult? Who was it and what was the situation?
I would have to say Steven. A few weeks ago I came to his office and was really upset about something going on at work and he had me sit in his lap and held me while I cried. It was nice to be hugged like that.

4. One thing about children is that they all like to draw. We all shared the same ability and skill level at one time. Do you still like to draw? (Not do you think you draw well, or do others, but do you like to?) If not, how come? Did you get discouraged at some point?
I love to draw even though I'm not really good. I doodle snails all over everything. I even sign cards with my little snail, giving him santa hats for Christmas when he becomes Santa Snail. I don't really even sit down and draw, though.

5. Have you ever overslept on a day you had something important going on? What's the story there?
Nothing too important - just work or school. ;-) Actually, I did oversleep for my microeconomics mid-term when I was a sophomore, but the really bad part of the morning was when I got into a wreck in the U of H parking lot. Luckily the teacher was a nice guy and let me take it after school.

6. What was the last thing you almost bought, but thought better of it? And why the heck do we do that to ourselves?
I do this all the time. Saturday I had a shirt picked out that I kind of liked - a white button-down with blue and black vertical stripes. I actually gave it to the girl behind the counter but changed my mind before she rang it up. I liked it, but the more I looked at it, the less I liked it. I guess we do this because we've been trained that, as good Americans, we should consume lots of goods. Sometimes the high from buying is better than the actual purchase.

7. It's all such a blur now. I'd asked you to help me wake up but the alarm didn't go off. It was 10 till and just I knew I'd be late. Somehow you got me here on time. How did you do that?
With my amazing ability to drive like a demon in my little Miata. Just be thankful we're alive.

BONUS: Can't you see, you belong to me?
How my poor heart aches with every step you take.

.: 558 words at 03:26 PM in Monday Missions, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (0) :.

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It's Monday, so time to start the week out right with Jess's Participation Positives!

• I had a great time out with Jeanna at DCI on Friday and with Juidth on Saturday at the mall. It's good to go out with girlfriends!
• I managed to get first place in a couple of poker tournaments and get my account back up to a decent amount
• I got a really cute skirt from The Limited for only $15
• I adore my new camera and have added lots of cool pictures to Picture Fish
• I finally got my $100 Amazon.com gift certificate from Milesource so I was able to get fifth season of The X-Files on DVD and all of the Anita Blake books
• Lucky, the cat we found, seems to be happy and looks like he's doing better
• We have a new The Dead Zone episode to watch
• I love and am loved

.: 151 words at 11:54 AM in Participation Positives, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (2) :.

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I was beginning to think that I wasn't going to get anymore Amazon.com Gold Box Offers after not getting one all weekend.

.: Oxford Garden Designs Chadwick Collection Armchair: another chair. It's nice enough, but I am not going to buy a chair for $100 site-unseen from them.

.: Flowtron MT-150 Mosquito PowerTrap: mosquitos are definitely a problem around here, but there is no way in hell that I am paying almost $225 for a mosquito killer.

.: Lakeland Mills CF1125 Cedar Log Rocking Chair: I think that this is an ugly chair. Far too rustic for my tastes.

.: MAC Sports MOCP-K-S Moon Chair, Khaki: this is kind of a cool chair, though I don't like the color. We had a chair real similar to this in our office and it was so comfortable.

.: Omni 616 Reclineaire PTX Hammock Chair, Navy Blue: I think these things are so cool, but there is no where to hang it in my condo. Plus, it's freaking hot outside. I'm not going outside for an extended length of time for anything.

.: 184 words at 09:39 AM in The Gold Box, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (0) :.

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I spent quite a while getting all of my new pictures into Picture Fish today. The pictures include all of my images from Theme Thursday, my foray into Rice Village with Jeanna, and a few other miscellaneous things.

.: 39 words at 01:01 AM in Picture Fish Update, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (0) :.

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Been a busy day here. Steven and I met his mom and dad for lunch at Thai Spice, a Thai buffet. I'm not a big fan of Thai and Indian food, but it wasn't too bad. After that we ran the monitor that I borrowed from work over to my office and went to Best Buy to pick up my repaired monitor. There wasn't enough voltage (or something like that), so they did some internal adjustments on my monitor and I have color contrast again. Yeah! After that we came home, I got first place in another poker tournament, and started fixing some images to put into Picture Fish. Be warned. The next update at over there will probably be over twenty pictures. I've just finished stairmastering, so I'm going to go watch a little tv and eat some dinner. Shame that the weekend is already over. I could have used a longer weekend this time for sure!

.: 161 words at 10:03 PM in Daily Ramblings, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (0) :.

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I took some picutes of Lucky, the stray cat we found, today. You can see in these shots how skinny and his bald patches. I looked online and it said that the hair loss could be from allergies, stress, or diet changes. Poor kitty has had all of those.

.: 49 words at 09:55 PM in Fish Tales, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (5) :.

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Time for Chris's Sunday Op-Ed!

1. Fall
What is something that is a relief in Texas? Fall means that the temperature starts to go down (at least a little bit) and give everyone a respite from the heat. I wish that we had more trees that changed colors and someday I would like to go up north and watch the foliage change.

2. Vacation
What is something that I can never get enough of and wish I had a lot more of? I love taking vacations, even if it's just to stay home from work and do something around town with friends.

3. Travel
What is something that I intend to do a lot of before I die? I've made Steven promise that we will go to Paris, Italy, Australia, Greece, and The Bahamas at least.

.: 137 words at 09:01 PM in Sunday Op-Ed, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (0) :.

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I made my first post at the group photoblog Common Threads today. I am glad they accepted me. Some of the photos there are absolutely stunning.

.: 26 words at 01:27 AM in Participation, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (2) :.

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Jeanna and I had a great time at DCI last night, but my shoulder and arm started hurting really bad amd by the time I went to bed, I could barely move it. I woke up this morning due to some noisy disturbances and was in agony. I was able to get back to sleep, but had to wake up at 10:00 (very early for me on the weekend) to meet a friend at the mall. We shopped until three, I came home, messed around on the computer, and finally fell asleep, exhausted and with aching feet. I just woke up and I feel just out of it. I have a lot of things I want to get done (a few review-type posts here), a possible design/domain thing I've been thinking about, a ton of pictures I want to get into Picture Fish, and other stuff as well. I'm going to try and wake up and take care of some of it, but right now, I just want to go back to sleep.

.: 175 words at 08:00 PM in Daily Ramblings, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (2) :.

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Time for Phoxxe's Saturday Scruples!

1. Your son's Fifth Grade teacher is proud to be gay. He espouses gay family values in class. Do you protest to the principal? I suppose it depends on what you mean my espousing family values in class. I wouldn't want my child to have family values of any kind taught to him at school, be it religious, sexual, or anything else at this age - that's my job to do. I would probably not protest, though, unless I felt it was extremely over the line.

2. As a joke, a co-worker sends anonymous love letters to another co-worker who takes them seriously. Everyone is enjoying the prank. Do you expose it? Yes, I would. That's a terrible thing to do to someone and I would feel so guilty if I knew about it and let it continue.

3. Due to a mix-up the tax department fines you $500 for tax evasion. You're completely innocent but it'll cost $5000 to fight in court. Do you fight on principle? I guess it depends on if any repercussions will happen because of this. Does it go on my record and I have to disclose it on any kind of application, for instance. If not, I would probably just pay it.

.: 214 words at 07:54 PM in Saturday Scruples, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (0) :.

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Nothing good in my Amazon.com Gold Box Offers. Just expensive tables and cushions for hammocks I don't own.

.: American Woods 1685 Cedar Adirondack Chair with Ottoman Gift Set: another chair. Looks like I am going from cools and cooking utensils to patio stuff. Of course, none of it is very useful to me.

.: Gardenside 1606 Teak Rosevale 48 Round Dining Table: OMG! I just got offered a $500+ table! Who would buy a $500 table from Amazon site unseen?

.: Omni/Swings 'N Things 588 Blue Olefin Hammock Chair Cushion: well, since I don't have a hammock, this is a very good offer for me. Pass.

.: Lentek YC12G YardContro: this is supposed to repel dogs, cats, deer, wild animals out of yards and gardens. Of course, I don't have a yard or garden....

.: Omni/Swings 'N Things 589 Green Olefin Hammock Chair Cushion: this is the same cushin they just offered me. I don't want it in blue or green, thank you very much.

.: 172 words at 11:06 AM in The Gold Box, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (1) :.

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Today is Lizzie Borden's birthday, but even more importantly, it's my friend Trish's birthday as well! Happy birthday, Trish! I know the past year has been interesting, to say the least, so I hope this birthday is the beginning to a turn around in your life. I love you and I'm glad that we're still friends after all this time.

.: 60 words at 10:58 AM in Linky Love, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (0) :.

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I have added a Bloglet subscription to Picture Fish so that you can know when new pictures are added.

.: 19 words at 02:40 AM in Picture Fish Update, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (0) :.

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By the way, if you're not a member of S.P.O.R.K. yet, why not?

.: 13 words at 02:38 AM in Participation, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (0) :.

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When I left a little before 9:00 I went outside to see if the kitty was still here and he was sitting out in the neighbor's chair. I called Steven after he got to work to ask him if he remembered to feed the cat and give him fresh water. He said he did, but that the cat wasn't out there. I immediately started worrying that something had happened to him, the neighbors had called animal control and they'd taken him to the pound, etc., but I went with Christine to the PetSmart right by our office anyway and got some dry cat food.

I met Steven for dinner tonight before he went to his poker game and when I came home the cat was no where to be found. I played some poker (winning first place in one of Paradise Poker's tournaments), took some pictures, and went to look for the cat. I was walking around the back calling, "Here kitty, kitty, kitty" just as he was coming towards me. I was very happy to see him and had him follow me back to the front porch so he could get some food. I got the bag, set an empty bowl down, and started pouring him some food. He was so hungry he got his head in the bowl and started eating before I could pour all his food. I took some pictures of him eating, so I might have some photos up so you can see him soon.

I'm worried about all his missing fur, but I really hope now that he's got some food and water he might start looking a little healthier. The next step is to find some kind of little house that can stay on the porch, keep him out of the elements, and not fall apart. Anyone have any suggestions?

.: 308 words at 01:57 AM in Fish Tales, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (1) :.

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And now, time for today's Friday Five!

1. Where were you born? Houston, Texas at the now defunct Citizen's General Hospital (I-45 and Richey Road).

2. If you still live there, where would you rather move to? If you don't live there, do you want to move back? Why or why not? I still live here in Houston. There isn't really anywhere else I would want to move. I would never move up north because I can't stand the cold (it gets into the sixties down here and I'm freezing) and both mine and Steven's families are here. Plus, I just kind of like Houston. :-)

3. Where in the world do you feel the safest? Actually I feel safe right where I am. The condo complex is gated and (too) well lit, so I don't worry too much.

4. Do you feel you are well-traveled? Kind of since I've been to England, Scotland, and Wales, but Steven and his family grew up in the middle east, he spent his summers in Greece, he's been to Paris, Thailand, Cypress, Kenya, Egypt, and a million other places, so I always feel woefully undertraveled.

5. Where is the most interesting place you've been? I loved London. It was so incredible and the city seemed so alive no matter what time of day. Vegas isn't bad, though.

.: 225 words at 12:06 AM in Friday Five!, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (0) :.

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Making my To Do List for the weekend. Not sure how much will be done, though, since Jeanna and I are spending the day together tomorrow and going to Rice village and then to DCI's The ExSightment of Sound and I'm going shopping with Judith on Saturday.

.: 163 words at 09:28 PM in To Do Lists, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (0) :.

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Time for Deb's Thursday Threesome!

Onesome. A Clear - In the last few months, what have you muddled over that suddenly became a clear, focused picture or plan of action? Hmmm. Kind of some work situations, but it's still a little up in the air.

Twosome. And Present - what is the coolest present you've ever gotten and/or given? The coolest present I've given lately was probably a witch's rosary that I gave to Trish. It was gorgeous. Best present I've ever gotten is hard, but the thing that's coming to mind is when Steven put me on his credit card out of the blue since I didn't have any (long story). It showed that he trusted me and loved me very much and it made me feel really great.

Threesome. Danger - have you ever been in a dangerous situation? Well, my last long relationship was dangerous in the sense that the guy was really bad for me and it would have been a disaster if we had stayed together. Otherwise, I can't really think of anything.

.: 180 words at 09:18 PM in Thursday Threesome, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (0) :.

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It's time for Dave's Thursday Thumb-Twiddler!

1. One hot summer afternoon, while walking through a parking lot at a large shopping mall, you notice a dog suffering badly from the heat inside a locked car. What would you do? I would try and find mall security and report the person. In a mall, there would be no way otherwise to find the rat bastard that did that to their dog.

2. You are in a restaurant rest room. You notice an employee leaving without washing his/her hands. Do you bring the matter to the attention of the owner or manager? If so, do you do it publicly or privately? I probably wouldn't, but if I did, it would be privately.

3. What is one item you own that you really should throw away ... but probably never will? Probably far more items than I could list, but if I have to pick just one it would be probably some ratty shirts that I love but would hate to part with.

.: 171 words at 09:14 PM in Thursday Threesome, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (0) :.

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I checked like six times last night between 11:00 p.m. and 2:00 a.m. to make sure that the kitty was okay and still out there. He (or she) had been sitting in the neighbor's (we share a little patio in front of our condos) chair all night and was still there when I looked out this morning. I'm going to try and find some kind of basket or little "dog house," for lack of a better term, that we can put on the porch for him. I'd like it to be covered so he can stay out of the elements, but I have no idea what I'm going to be able to find. I really hope he's just skinny and not sick, poor little thing. I'll keep everyone posted on his health.

.: 132 words at 10:13 AM in Fish Tales, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (3) :.

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So much for getting any more cool toys in my Amazon.com Gold Box Offers. Today there were all patio items, things that, since I have no yard, aren't very useful to me.

.: Gardenside 3516 Teak Summerhill Armchair: nice looking chair, but there is no way I am paying over $300 for it.

.: Oxford Garden Designs Market Umbrella Base: as I've mentioned, I don't have a yard, so this is so useless.

.: Omni-Swings 'N Things 550 Taino Rainbow Hammock: I've always wanted a hammock, but once again, no yard, so kind of difficult to use this.

.: Gardenside 3540 Teak Sausalito Dining Armchair: another nice looking chair, but it's over $200 and I don't really have any where to put this. Pass.

.: Astonica 40101101 Patio Heater, Stainless Steel: once again, no yard, so totally useless.

.: 144 words at 10:05 AM in The Gold Box, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (1) :.

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By the way, two new self portraits over at Picture Fish.

.: 12 words at 11:18 PM in Picture Fish Update, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (0) :.

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As part of the Homeland Security Act, the White House and some in Congress are proposing to grant broad new secrecy and immunity protections allowing corporations to conceal damaging information from the public and the courts, and avoid accountability for their actions. It would have a devastating effect on law enforcement, the regulatory process, and public safety. Please urge your representatives to reject this secrecy and immunity proposal.

.: 69 words at 11:03 PM in Take Action!, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (1) :.

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Who would have thought it would happen, but Angelina Jolie and Billy Bob Thornton have split up. Angelina is quoted as saying that Billy Bob " hasn't been as honorable as he could be" when asked about rumors of him being unfaithful.

(Link courtesy of Trish)

.: 48 words at 10:59 PM in Notable News, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (2) :.

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Steven and I came home from work and the gym and I pulled up to the garage so he could get my loaner computer monitor out of my car (I had to take my monitor in to Best Buy and the boss let me borrow one from work until I get it back). He comes over says something about a cat in the garage, gets the monitor out, tells me to watch it so it doesn't get in the house, and goes upstairs to get some food to lure it out. I park and go look at the cat.

At first I thought it was one of the ones that lives in our complex and I tried to scare it off. It stood up, meowing, and I noticed how thin it was. The poor thing was as thin as a rail and it looked like some of its fur had started falling out. Steven came out with the tuna fish and I went upstairs with him to get it some water. I was worried about him being down by the garages, so I had Steven carry the water and I took the tuna fish. I called him to me and he followed me to the front porch. He ate a bunch of the tuna fish and drank some water and now he's sitting out there on the front steps.

He's so friendly and trusting that it's obvious someone dumped him. He's not a kitten anymore, but a young cat, so I guess someone had him since he was little and just didn't want him anymore and dumped him. Poor kitty.

Steven is not a cat person, so he won't ever be an indoor kitty, but I hope he (or she) stays around long enough to get healthy. He's a solid black cat, so if he sticks around, maybe I'll call him Lucky for grins. Maybe I'll try to get some pictures tomorrow.

.: 322 words at 09:53 PM in Fish Tales, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (1) :.

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Last night Jeanna was telling me the four raccoons that were having a party in her garage earlier this week. I wondered what you call a group of raccoons, so in her honor, today's "It's a Group Thing" is:

A Mask of Raccoons

.: 43 words at 12:06 PM in It's a Group Thing, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (1) :.

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For once, my Amazon.com Gold Box Offers were for things other than cooking utensil or a power tool. I wasn't very interested in the games that it contained today, but maybe we're getting closer to it containing items I'd actually be interested in.

.: Who Wants to Be a Millionaire Board Game: I like the show, but would rather play Trivial Pursuit instead.

.: Electronic Spider Stompin' Game: I love board games usually, but this one looks like it's a little young for me unless I just want to stomp some spiders.

.: Harry Potter Talking Portraits Room Alarm: I don't have any kids and even though I love Harry Potter, going to pass on this.

.: Antique Roadshow Board Game: I've never really watched the show, though it seems kind of interesting and fun, but I don't think I'd really enjoy the board game. Give me a game of Trivial Pursuit any day.

.: Marvin's Magic Game: another game that's just a little too young for me.

.: 173 words at 10:13 AM in The Gold Box, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (0) :.

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It's been really nasty out the last few days and I've been tired, so not a lot of blogging going on.

I had a really bizarre dream last night where Steven and I were going to go to Italy, but he decided to send me on to Beijing first for a few days. I started panicking because I couldn't find my passport, I was going to China alone, and I don't speak Chinese. Then I started to think that Steven wanted me to go alone so I would get kidnapped and end up in a white slavery ring. I woke up anxious and exhausted. Not a good way to start the morning.

I added a few more pictures to Picture Fish and sent a few to my brother to see if he couldn't get them to come out a little cleaner. I also submitted my picture Rearview to The Mirror Project.

My best friend Jeanna had to put her dog to sleep yesterday, so we're going to a movie tonight to see Road To Perdition. I've been hearing both really good reviews and really bad reviews, so we'll see how it is.

I guess that's it for now. Hopefully I'll get some good rest tonight and not feel so tired and out of it tomorrow.

.: 217 words at 02:41 PM in Daily Ramblings, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (2) :.

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Time for Christine's This-or-That Tuesday:

• Rented lodgings, or staying with friends/relatives?
I guess this one would depend, but probably rented.
• Lots of activities, or just lying around doing nothing?
A combo, but more activities than laying around.
• Blogging while on vacation...yes or no?
Usually I don't have access to computer while on vacation, but if I did, I would probably do some blogging.
• If you have children and/or pets...bring them along or make other arrangements?
Leave them (can't take fish tanks with you).
• Do you cook while away on vacation, or eat out every day?
Eat out. Of course we mostly do this now.
• Do you pack light and plan to do laundry while away, or overpack and wash everything when you get home?
Overpack and wash when we get home.
• Drive to your vacation spot, or take some kind of public transportation?
Public transportation unless it's close by.
• If you have a cell phone...on or off while away?
Steven leaves his on, but I never take mine (I'd have to pay roaming fees).
• Bring work along or not?
Hell no!
• Returning home with more stuff than you originally took with you...yes or no?
Yes.

.: 196 words at 09:42 AM in This-or-That Tuesday, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (0) :.

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Here's PromoGuy's Monday Mission 2.28:

1. Have you ever sold anything through an online auction? What did you sell and did you make very much?
I've sold a few things online. I sold a video card that I can't remember how I got or how much I sold it for. I sold an America Beanie Baby for about $30 after paying $6 for it. I also sold a copy of Windows XP that I won from a local radio station for about $120.

2. Have you ever bought anything through an online auction? How was your experience?
I have bought a ton of stuff online. As a matter of fact, I bought a card reader for my camera on Friday (though Steven was sweet enough to pay for it since I bought the camera and the card). In the past I've bought tons of items including Playstation games, computer games, ornaments, Beanie Babies, signed books.

3. Do you like the sun? Getting a suntan? Have you ever had a bad sunburn?
I like the sun, but only when at the beach. I used to tan in tanning beds all the time, but I've gotten away from it lately. I have made a resolution to start tanning more. I've had several bad burns, mostly because because of summer band camp. The worst one I ever had was when I fell asleep at the Schlitterbahn for four hours. It hurt to wear a shirt.

4. Are you a vegetarian? Why? If not, have you ever considered it?
No, and I don't think I'd consider it. I don't eat a lot of meat, but I do eat some and I wouldn't like to give it up. My brother was a vegetarian for a while and he always seemed to be sick. It seems like it would be harder to stay healthy as one.

5. Suppose you are getting into your car after you've just made your purchase from a store you visit twice a week. You suddenly realize you had a .35¢ item in your hand and you forgot to pay for it. What would you do next? (what *would* you do, not what *should* you do)
If I was right outside the door, I might go back in. If I was parked far away and was going back that week anyway, I'd just tell them next time I came in.

6. Sometimes it seems that there is just not enough time to do everything that must be done. Was there anything you wanted to accomplish this weekend that didn't get done?
Actually, I got most of my stuff done this weekend; more than I even expected.

7. What is your favorite game to play with a group and/or an individual? (board game, computer game, athletic, etc.)
Trivial Pursuit, bar none. I love playing Trivial Pursuit in a group! Mexican Train (a domino game) is quickly becoming my new favorite, however.

BONUS: One headline why believe it?
Never believe just one headline. Get verification from others first.

.: 505 words at 05:36 PM in Monday Missions, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (0) :.

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Seems like Amazon just loves offering me the same items over and over again for my Amazon.com Gold Box Offers.

.: Panasonic ES8003W Men's Wet/Dry Rechargeable Linear Shaver with 3D: good Lord! Stop offering me shavers! I've passed on like ten of these already!

.: Dirt Devil 091210RC Platinum Force Bagless Upright - Plus Cordless Hand Vac: not in the market for a vacuum.

.: Zelco "itty bitty" Booklight, Volume 2: this is something that I would be interested in. I read a lot after Steven's already in bed and have to leave the bedside lamps on. Not sure if I really want to spend $15, though, since he can sleep with the light on.

.: Sabatier Prosteel 7-Piece High Carbon Stainless Steel Knife Set with Block: man! No more knives already.

.: Dirt Devil CE7000 Easy Steamer Carpet Extractor: like I just said, we don't need a vacuum.

.: 155 words at 02:04 PM in The Gold Box, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (0) :.

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It's Monday, so time to start the week out right with Jess's Participation Positives!

• I love Steven so much and have such a wonderful time with him. Last night as we cuddled, I couldn't help but think how lucky I am that we found each other and how happy he makes me.
• I finally figured out where to use the little goldfishy link from my Pepperidge Farm Goldfish skin that Kristine made me. (Hint: check out my Blogrolling list.)
• Friday I'm taking a half-day to spend with Jeanna in Rice village before we go to Drum Corp International, which should be a lot of fun
• Saturday I get to see my friend Judith for the first time in quite a while
• I love my new Sony DSC-P71 Cyber-Shot 3MP Digital Camera
• I got some incredible photos with above camera into Picture Fish yesterday
• I got a ton of things done in my latest To Do List
• I love the Anita Blake, vampire hunter books that I started and can't wait to read the others
• We have a new The Dead Zone episode to watch
• My adjusted salary kicked in
• My neck and back feel great today
• I love and am loved

.: 204 words at 12:06 PM in Participation Positives, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (1) :.

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Since I got my new camera on Friday, I spent the weekend taking some pictures and putting them into Picture Fish. So far I love the new camera and think it's going to be an awesome addition to my gadget collection!

.: 42 words at 10:52 PM in Picture Fish Update, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (2) :.

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I was noticing that a few people have statements in their comments that say things to the effect that you're e-mail address is spam-protected when you leave a comment. I was wondering how they did that, so I went and did a search at the MT Support Forums that found this thread. Basically by changing < $MTCommentAuthorLink$ > to < $MTCommentAuthorLink spam_protect="1"$ >, the "@" and "." characters get changed to their ASCII values so that spambots can't harvest them (please note I added the spaces in the <> tags so it would display in my blog). It took me all of a couple of minutes to make the change in both this blog and in Picture Fish, so help stop spam and make this change if you're on MT.

.: 125 words at 06:09 PM in Geeky Things, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (1) :.

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More cooking offers in my Amazon.com Gold Box Offers, but at least two of them made me think about making a purchase.

.: Zojirushi NS-JCC10 Neuro Fuzzy 5-Cup Rice Cooker: another one of these. I still don't need a rice cooker, so I'm still going to pass.

.: Sabatier Profile Stainless Steel 14-Piece Knife Set with Block: nice looking knife set, but we don't need it. Interesting side note, I got a "we're out of this, but order now and you'll get it as soon as it's in stock" as opposed to one of their messages saying they'd just run out.

.: Hamilton Beach 80200 Flat Bread MealMaker Bread Press and Skillet: this looks way cool. You can make flatbreads on it like pitas and tortillas. I doubt we'd use it, but a great offer nonetheless!

.: Black & Decker CBM7B SmartGrind Deluxe Coffee Bean Burr Mill - Black: I don't drink coffee and I won a $160 coffee maker a couple of months ago anyway.

.: WMF Manhattan Stainless Steel Cocktail Shaker with Built-In Strainer: this is even cooler looking than the martini shaker I was offered the other day. Finally, an item I might consider buying.

.: 204 words at 05:59 PM in The Gold Box, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (0) :.

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Time for Chris's Sunday Op-Ed!

1. Television
What is something that I watch a lot more of now that I have a Tivo? I used to not watch very many shows because I usually get home so late on weeknights that they're all over with. Now with my Tivo I record a ton of shows and watch them when I get home. I love my Tivo!

2. Radio
What is something that I used to listen to a lot both at work and in the car, but never listen to now? I've gotten where all I listen to at work is mp3s and in the car I listen pretty much to my CDs.

3. Newspaper
What is something I used to read all the time from middle school to college (mostly for the entertainment section, I admit), but only read now on very rare occasions? It's funny, though, but with the Internet I am more aware of the news than when I regularly read the paper.

.: 169 words at 05:09 PM in Sunday Op-Ed, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (0) :.

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Time to update the To Do List:

.: 145 words at 09:41 PM in To Do Lists, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (0) :.

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Once again, nothing in my Amazon.com Gold Box Offers worth getting.

.: Hamilton Beach 72600 Fresh Chop 3-Cup Food Chopper: not interested. We don't need one of these.

.: West Bend 79586 6-Quart Capacity Electric Wok: as I've said before, we don't need a wok.

.: Calphalon Professional Hard Anodized Collector's Edition 3 1/2-Quart Saucepot with Lid: when I started my job at 4 Guys, I bought Steven a fifteen piece set of Wolfgang Puck cookware to thank him for being so supportive while I was laid off. He's got saucepots.

.: Farberware Classic 8-Piece Cookware Set: like I just said, he's got cookware.

.: Spiegelau by WMF 6-Ounce Martini Glasses, Set of 6: these are nice looking, but aren't really anything special. Not worth the price.

.: 133 words at 05:08 PM in The Gold Box, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (0) :.

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Time for Phoxxe's Saturday Scruples!

1. A disgruntled worker is brandishing an automatic weapon. You're near a door. If you try to warn others you may not escape. Do you save yourself? That's a tough one. If I ran back inside, probably none of us would be able to get out, so the best thing would be to get out and try and get some help. There's nothing I could do to help someone if I was dead.

2. You're buying a house from a sweet old lady. Her price is well below market value. Do you tell her? Probably not. I may mention it, though, since if it's that low, there may be some kind of flaw or problem that she's not disclosing. Just to warn her so she could increase her price though, no.

3. Your five-year-old is angry and kicks you in the shins. Do you administer a sound spanking? Probably. That seems like it would deserve it in my opinion.

.: 165 words at 04:57 PM in Saturday Scruples, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (0) :.

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The vote on Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) is the first step towards ratification of the international women's treaty that will strengthen women's rights in the United States as well as globally. Please take a moment to let your senators know that you would like them to support thus treaty.

.: 55 words at 08:19 PM in Take Action!, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (0) :.

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I just liked the gratuitous nipple shot.

Which incarnation of Kylie are you?

.: 13 words at 11:16 AM in Quizzy Stuff, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (0) :.

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Yes! I checked the shipping status of my Sony DSC-P71 Cyber-Shot 3MP Digital Camera that I ordered from Amazon and it says it's out for delivery. I should get my camera today after all! Woo hoo!

Update: Liars! It was scheduled for delivery... to the post office! Apparently Airborne sends them to the post office first and then the post office delivers them. Looks like I'll get it Monday or Tuesday instead. And I was so looking forward to getting my camera for the weekend and showing off my new nails for Promo.

Second Update: Brian and I were going to Wal-Mart to get some flowers for his wife when we passed the postman carrying a big Amazon box. I sadly said, "I wish I was getting an Amazon box today." We got out to the car when Brian got beeped on his cell phone. It was Christine saying that I had just gotten a big Amazon box. When we came back from Wal-Mart I opened it up and there was my camera! I got it today after all and now I am happy.

.: 187 words at 09:36 AM in Daily Ramblings, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (1) :.

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Five more tool offers to add to my list of Amazon.com Gold Box Offers.

.: PowerQwest LT10 24 Volt Cordless Electric String Timmer: I don't have a yard, so any kind of gardening tools are just not going to get bought.

.: Senco DS200-14V DuraSpin Remodeler's Screw Gun, Includes a Free SS14V Cut Out Saw: this actually might come in handy to have around the house, but my parents have one, so we'll just borrow theirs and save the $180.

.: Milwaukee 6390-21 7-1/4" Circular Saw with Tilt-Lok Handle and Case: this has got to be the tenth saw they've offered me. No thank you already!

.: Record 52-1/2ED Quick Release Woodworker's Vise (with "Dog"), 9" Jaw Width: another tool. Please, please no more tools or cooking items.

.: Allied 69062 196 Piece Tool Set in Metal Tool Box: I guess I could get all my tools in one fell swoop with this thing.

.: 160 words at 09:33 AM in The Gold Box, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (1) :.

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Steven and I went to Hooters today for lunch. The waitress, whose name is Nickle, asked for our drink orders. I ordered a Coke, no ice (I hate ice in drinks). She gasps and goes, "OMG. That is so bad for your stomach. Are you sure you want that?" I told her yes, thinking she was talking about the Coke in general since it's got so much acid and really isn't all that good for you. She then said, "Can't I put just a few pieces in there?" and it dawned on me that she wasn't talking about the Coke itself, but the lack of ice. I assured her that I did indeed want my Coke without ice, and after shaking her head, she put my order in. Steven leaned across the table after she left and told me, "Honey, that's what's been wrong with your stomach all this time! You drink your drinks without ice! You could have said all that money on doctors and an endoscopy and just asked Nickle and she could have told you the answer to your problems!"

Ah, if only I had known that Dr. Nickle was only a few blocks away from work, think of all the pain I could have saved myself!

.: 210 words at 01:38 AM in Daily Ramblings, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (5) :.

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Just like Robyn, I've been blogchalked!

Google! DayPop! This is my blogchalk: English, United States, Texas, Houston, Kymberlie, Female, 26-30!

.: 22 words at 12:52 AM in Participation, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (0) :.

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UNFPA (U.N. Family Planning Act) provides much needed family planning services all over the world, often in places where no other organization is able to work. Please take a moment and urge President Bush to continue supporting this program.

.: 40 words at 11:18 PM in Take Action!, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (1) :.

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The day started out really bad for no reason other than I've been stressed and just reached breaking. The day improved and tonight I got a manicure and pedicure (my nails had looked horrible), talked to my best friend Jeanna for an hour, and just got second place in two poker tournaments, a $6 like I usually play and a $11 one. It's basically Friday, so I think things are on their way up! :-)

.: 76 words at 11:14 PM in Daily Ramblings, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (1) :.

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I hadn't posted about it yet, but my mother and I had a great time at The Lion King on Tuesday night. Even if you don't like the cartoon, even if you find the songs hokey, you should go to see the amazing sets and costumes. We had perfect seats (third row, balcony) and even had moments when characters were at the end of our row.

The sheer imagination that was required to make this, a child's cartoon, turn into a Broadway show is amazing. When you think about it, how do you make a lion or a hyena that talks realistic? Through the use of their amazing props and costumes (the woman that played the cheetah actually moved like a feline), you almost forget what it is that you're watching. They did things like turn grass and wind into characters. Simply wonderful.

If you get a chance to go see it, take advantage and go. You'll be glad you did.

.: 161 words at 05:21 PM in Entertainment Value, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (1) :.

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Time for Deb's Thursday Threesome!

Onesome: Long--Long tall drink. What's your favorite beverage, alcoholic and/or non-alcoholic? Alcoholic it is, hands-down, the raspberry piña coladas that Steven makes for me. Carrabba's Grand Roman Ritas run a close second. Non-alcoholic it's a cherry coke, especially fountain ones.

Twosome: Hot--Do you like it hot? Spicy hot food, that is! No way! I have to have mild food; I can't take heat at all. It's sad, but even things like mild wings are sometimes a little hot for me.

Threesome: Summer--Summer makes you think of what food? What's your favorite summer recipe? Well, I don't cook, so I'll say it's Steven's raspberry piña coladas. :-)

.: 112 words at 12:29 PM in Thursday Threesome, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (1) :.

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It's time for Dave's Thursday Thumb-Twiddler!

1. Would you prefer to be blind or deaf? As much as I love music, I would have to pick deaf. While it is undoubtly hard not to be able to hear, I think it would be even harder to make it in the world being blind.

2. If you could transfer to your mate the one trait that you possess that you wish s/he did, what would it be? I wish Steven would be more inclined to give people the benefit of the doubt. I'm the typical liberal willing to believe the best of people (though it's getting harder to do in today's world) while Steven is the typical conservative where people have to prove themselves first.

3. If you could fly in a hot air balloon over any city in the world, what city would you choose? My very first thought was Paris. I bet it would be amazing to go over and see all the beauty of the city from up high.

.: 172 words at 12:18 PM in Thursday Thumb-Twiddler, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (1) :.

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More cooking offers in my Amazon.com Gold Box Offers. Why can't I get some books or movies?

.: Sabatier Cannes Bordeaux 20-Piece Flatware Placesetting: for the thousandth time, I don't want any flatware!

.: Vacu Vin Concerto Wine Saver Extra Stoppers, Set of 4: if we don't drink wine, so no thank you.

.: Farberware Nonstick 4-Cup Egg Poacher: fairly certain that Steven doesn't eat poached eggs and I know I don't.

.: Oneida Cocktail Shaker: finally! A cooking product that we would use! Steven drinks martinis (I don't), but he's already got a shaker. It's pretty cool looking, but I'm going to pass.

.: Polder Electronic Clock/Stopwatch/Timer: I think Steven could actually use one of these, but I'll pass on it anyway.

.: 129 words at 10:08 AM in The Gold Box, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (0) :.

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I just read Guilty Pleasures and The Laughing Corpse by Laurell K. Hamilton and they are excellent. They are supernatural mysteries (sort of) about a vampire hunter. I had to stop on the way home tonight and get the third book in the series Circus of the Damned. I've got some gift certificates that I think are going to buy me the rest of the series and maybe the fifth season of The X-Files on DVD. Anyway, looking for something new to read? Try the Anita Blake series out.

.: 92 words at 10:32 PM in Media Consumption, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (0) :.

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I have a chiropractic appointment tonight, I need to go to the gym, and I'm exhausted, but I thought I would get my latest To Do List together so I can try and eliminate some items this week, especially the ones relating to e-mails to send out.

.: 172 words at 03:11 PM in To Do Lists, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (0) :.

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Okay, I really don't believe this one because I have a killer body AND I'm smart. :-)

What Was Your PastLife?

(Link courtesy of L)

.: 26 words at 02:36 PM in Quizzy Stuff, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (1) :.

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Today is the last day for the similar "It's a Group Thing" terms that I've been doing for the last two weeks. Today's term is:

An Impossibility of Platypuses

.: 29 words at 10:59 AM in It's a Group Thing, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (0) :.

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I would love to get something besides five more cooking offers in my Amazon.com Gold Box Offers. Anyone taken advantage of theirs yet?

.: Zojirushi Tuff Road 16-Ounce Commuter Mug, Metallic Green: kind of nice looking (for a commuter mug), but I don't drink coffee and if I have a coke, it's already in a can. Not very useful for me.

.: Roshco 100-Piece Plastic Cookie Cutter Set: if we get cookies, they are usually store-bought or from a cookie store. We never make them.

.: Black & Decker HS2000 Flavor Scenter Steamer Plus Steamer and Food/Rice Cooker: kind of neat, but I'm not sure if Steven would ever use it. Somehow I doubt he would.

.: Farberware Classic Series 2-Quart Saucepan with Double Boiler Insert and Lid: very cool, but I don't think it would get a lot of use at our house.

.: Sabatier Prosteel 4-Piece Steak Knife Set: hadn't seen any knives for a while in the box. Wish they would go away since we already have a nice knife set.

.: 180 words at 10:55 AM in The Gold Box, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (2) :.

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I was thinking about Picture Fish, my photoblog, the other day and how the thumbnails didn't line up, so yesterday I went and changed them. Now instead of getting a little mini version of the whole picture, you get a selected portion of it and have to click to see the whole thing. This will allow me to make the thumbnails the same size (which means the rows line up) even if the pictures vary drastically in size. I am very happy how it looks now and I hope everyone stops by to take a look at it. Thanks again to the Scripty Goddess Kristine for making such a great tutorial and templates!

.: 114 words at 02:54 PM in Picture Fish Update, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (2) :.

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Phoxxe has made a meme based on Kristine's domain name. Kristine came up with the Kadyellebee name based on her initials. My name would be Kayaremme (KRM). Almost sounds like Karen, doesn't it?

.: 34 words at 02:00 PM in Quizzy Stuff, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (3) :.

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Tools abound in my Amazon.com Gold Box Offers today.

.: Milwaukee 6266-21 Fast Cutting Top Handle Orbital Jig Saw with Case: what in the hell would I do with this? Thanks, but no thanks.

.: Bosch DWM40L Miter Finder Digital Protractor/Angle Finder: I couldn't manage the protractor that we had to use in school very well, so I'm going to upgrade to the $100 version? Pass!

.: MK MK-370K 7" 1/2 HP Tile Saw Includes Stand: another tool. Stop already with the tools!

.: Prazi USA P7020 Beam Cutter Chain (New Style): I guess since this is "new style" I should just want to snap it up. But I don't.

.: Milwaukee 5371-6 1/2" Magnum Heavy Duty Hammer Drill Kit: we have a drill (I think) already, so no need for a new one.

.: 139 words at 09:43 AM in The Gold Box, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (2) :.

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Time for Christine's This-or-That Tuesday:

• Fast-food or regular (sit-down) restaurant?
If you mean where do I eat more, probably fast food since I go to one for lunch almost every day. If, however, you mean what do I prefer, it's a regular restaurant.
• If or when you go to fast-food places...drive-through or walk in?
Drive-through usually.
• Any restaurant food...eat in or take out?
Eat in for regular restaurants; take out for others and things like pizza.
• You are at a restaurant and are too full to finish your meal. Do you leave it, or ask to have it wrapped up to go?
Have it wrapped up if I think either Steven or I will eat it the next day. I used to be really bad about getting it to go and leaving it on the table.
• Where does most of your food come from...restaurants or the grocery store?
Probably restaurants.
• Do you shop for food at a supermarket or a convenience store?
Supermarket with convenience stores only for emergencies or movie snacks.
• You have 13 items in your cart. Do you try to go through the *12 Items of Less* express line or grit your teeth and get into the regular line?
I would probably get in the twelve item lane.
• If you shop at a store that has them, do you use the regular or self-scan checkouts?
I don't shop at one that does. Those are still a little freaky to me and I'm not sure if I'd use them.
• Paper or plastic - Part One...what kind of bags do you take?
Paper. We use them for trash bags.
• Paper or plastic - Part Two...which payment method do you use when buying food?
Usually Steven buys the groceries and he uses plastic. I do too when I buy them for the most part.

.: 305 words at 01:04 AM in This-or-That Tuesday, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (0) :.

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My mom received a pair of kick-ass tickets to tomorrow's showing of The Lion King. Her and my dad were planning on going, but Mom just called and said that Dad didn't realize I wasn't going to get to see it and, since I'd enjoy it more than he would, I could go in his place. I am so excited! I really wanted to go and now I can. What a sweet guy my dad is!

.: 77 words at 06:30 PM in Fish Tales, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (2) :.

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Here's PromoGuy's Monday Mission 2.27:

1. Have you had to repair anything lately? Did you do it yourself or have someone else do it?
Man, I never repair anything. I'm clumsy sometimes, so asking me to fix something that would require electricty or tools would be like signing my death warrant.

2. Do you work out or exercise? Or is there anything you do each day for your health?
I work out in the gym when I have time, but I've been working late and going to the chiropractor, so I haven't been getting into the gym as much as I should. We do, however, have a commercial grade StairMaster FreeClimber 4600 PT which I try to use every day but Friday.

3. Are you a modest person? That is, would you be embarrassed for someone (an acquaintance, a friend, a stranger) to see you nude?
Nah, I'm not very modest, so I wouldn't be embarrassed. Right, Promo?

4. What are some odors that you just can not stand to smell?
The other day I was throwing out some dead roses and the ripe smell of decaying plants had me gagging in the kitchen. I didn't think I was going to be able to throw them away without hurling all over everything. There are other smells, too, but that one is the clearest right now.

5. Are there any social situations that make you uncomfortable?
A few, but I'm going to plead the fifth on this and not answer.

6. Has a friend or an employer ever asked you to do something you felt was unethical or? What was it and what happened?
Aside from stuff like, "Tell the boss I was sick," no not really. Of course, the last web development company I worked for had kids under eighteen working on what was basically a porn site. They're out of business now, thankfully.

7. (continued) Well, we are not yet at our destination, though the way you described it, it sounds simply amazing. What is the first thing we should do once we get there?
Go sit on The Strand and people watch. Maybe do a little shopping.

BONUS: In this whole world, what is fair?
Probably, unfortunately, not much.

.: 372 words at 05:27 PM in Monday Missions, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (1) :.

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It's Monday, so time to start the week out right with Jess's Participation Positives!

• I'm pretty caught up at work
• I was able to find the mp3 for New Year's Prayer by Jeff Buckley, the opening song from The Dead Zone
• We have a new The Dead Zone episode to watch
• I had some great ideas for small gifts for two people I care about
• My neck feels a lot better today
• I had a nice mini-break with the holiday weekend
• I love and am loved

.: 88 words at 11:50 AM in Participation Positives, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (0) :.

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I was surfing Picture Fish at home this weekend and when I choose a different color and went to either an individual picture or one of the archives, it always went back to the default color, which is blue. I was adding my mom's picture to it at work and when I went to view the site, the color changes stayed in place when I visited other pages. Could someone (or a few someones) go test it out and let me know if the color changer worked for you? I would certainly appreciate it!

.: 94 words at 11:00 AM in I'm Looking For...., ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (1) :.

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My mother sent me a picture today from when she was about three. I put the image up at Picture Fish, but I wanted to share it here too. Isn't she so cute? (Click on the image for a larger view.)

.: 42 words at 10:50 AM in Picture Fish Update, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (0) :.

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More cooking implements and another shaver in my Amazon.com Gold Box Offers today.

.: Kaiser Bakeware Noblesse Nonstick Mini Springform Pans, Set of 4: these looks like they are used for making things like tarts and stuff that we don't generally cook.

.: Microplane Interchangeable Grater System: kind of nice looking, but I'm not in the market for fancy graters. Pass.

.: Norelco T600 Acu-Control Cordless Rechargeable Beard & Moustache Trimmer: another shaver. Quit giving me these! I don't want it!

.: Precidio Tropical Plaid Melamine Bowls, Set of 4, Willow Green: ugly plates. I wonder why they think I need green plates all of a sudden.

.: George Foreman 3-Piece Outdoor BBQ Tool Set: I'm pretty sure that Steven has all of these tools already. I'll pass and close The Gold Box.

.: 138 words at 09:57 AM in The Gold Box, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (0) :.

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There is some asshole standing outside our condo shooting firecrackers off. On Sunday night. At midnight. Don't they think people might have to work tomorrow? Idiots.

.: 26 words at 11:42 PM in Rants, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (3) :.

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Another Amazon.com Gold Box, five more items I'm passing on.

.: Bounty Hunter Tracker IV Metal Detector: what in the world would I do with a metal detector? Do people really use these?

.: West Bend 41077 Just For Dinner Breadmaker: not too bad, but I asked Steven and he said he'd never use a breadmaker and since I don't cook, that's out.

.: Toastmaster 6431 Eclipse Single Burner: well, I don't cook, so I'll pass on this.

.: Sabatier Hunter Green Cannes 16 Piece Dinnerware Set: OMG! This is the ugliest color plates I have ever seen in my life! Run away!

.: Hamilton Beach 727W Classic DrinkMaster Drink Mixer, White: just got one of those "we ran out" notices on this one. Kind of cool, but our blender makes my raspberry piña coladas just fine.

.: 143 words at 07:04 PM in The Gold Box, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (4) :.

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I pulled a muscle in my neck this afternoon and have spent the last several hours on the couch with one of those Theraheat pads on my shoulder and neck. It seems like it's starting to loosen up, but it's still hurting. What a way to end the weekend!

.: 49 words at 06:38 PM in Daily Ramblings, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (3) :.

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Time for Chris's Sunday Op-Ed!

1. Cancer
What is something that I pray me, my friends, and my family don't ever get? Steven's uncle died from cancer last year and it was so sad watching him just wither away before our eyes. It will be a great day when we learn how to cure it.

2. Hospitals
What is something that I don't like? I pass out at doctor appointments occasionally, so the last place I want to go is the hospital!

3. Funerals
What is a very sad occasion, but can turn into kind of a nice time? When my grandpa on my dad's side died last year, family members that I hadn't seen in over five years all got together at my parents' house and we had a great time just catching up and seeing each other again.

.: 141 words at 04:11 PM in Sunday Op-Ed, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (1) :.

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what's your inner flower?
[c] s u g a r d e w

(Link courtesy of Kristine)

.: 18 words at 03:05 PM in Quizzy Stuff, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (0) :.

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I must be lucky in love because god knows I'm not lucky in cards or dominoes lately. I've gone from almost being rated expert at Pogo in dominoes to almost beginner in just a few days. Every poker tournament I've played in I've placed sixth or lower when I usually can get at least third and get into the money. I don't know what lucky icon I've lost to make my luck plummet like it has, but I wish I knew so I could get out of this evil, luckless funk!

.: 91 words at 02:57 AM in Rants, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (1) :.

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I haven't done a thing for the past couple of days except play poker and Civilization: Call To Power, so time to post the new To Do List and see if that can't motivate me to get some things done.

.: 137 words at 03:47 PM in To Do Lists, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (0) :.

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Time for Phoxxe's Saturday Scruples!

1. Your six-year-old son likes to play with Barbie® dolls. Do you discourage him? No. I played with cars and other "boy" toys when I was a kind and I turned out fine.

2. When you make a big sale, your boss surprises you you with a warm, lingering hug. Do you tell your boss you're not comfortable with this? Probably not. I've had bosses that do this in the past, but if it bothered me that much I would.

3. You invent a new kitchen aid. You can make four times more if you manufacture it in Asia where workers are paid a survival wage. Do you? Tough question. I'd like to say no, but I guess it depends on a few factors. Do I need the extra money or stock or do I otherwise go under? If it's just extra money, no.

.: 150 words at 03:47 AM in Saturday Scruples, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (0) :.

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If you've been watching The Dead Zone on USA you may have noticed the haunting, hypnotic song that plays in the background during the opening credits. It's called New Year's Prayer by Jeff Buckley from his CD Sketches (For My Sweetheart the Drunk). I did some searching on KaZaA Lite and finally found a copy of the song. Since I'm so sweet, you can download it from my server here. Enjoy!

.: 73 words at 07:48 PM in Media Consumption, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (4) :.

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More cooking items in today's Amazon.com Gold Box Offers. All I can guess is that their cooking department isn't selling all that much stuff so they're trying to get rid of it through this offers.

.: Sassafras Wood Pizza/Bread Peel: if we didn't already have one of these, I might be tempted to get this. Steven makes homemade pizzas and this is an essential piece of hardware to get the pizza to come out right.

.: Polder Triple Kitchen Timer/Clock: when I won my Belgian waffle maker back in April, it came with a kitchen timer which Steven has used yet, so don't need this item.

.: Libbey Flare 16-Piece Beverage Glass Set, Cobalt Blue: nice looking glasses, but just don't need them.

.: West Bend 79586 6-Quart Capacity Electric Wok: I asked Steven and he said he'd never use a wok, so passing on this.

.: Hamilton Beach 22559 Classic Chrome Extra-Wide Slot Toaster: nice looking toaster, but we've already got one.

.: 170 words at 03:54 PM in The Gold Box, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (4) :.

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And now, time for today's Friday Five!

1. Where are you right now? Sitting in front of the computer at home.

2. What have you lost recently? Besides my patience? I can't really think of anything.

3. What was the first CD you ever purchased? Does that embarrass you now? I can't remember, honestly.

4. What is your favorite kind of writing pen? Currently, it is my pack of rainbow colored gel pens by Bic. I really like them.

5. What is your favorite ice cream flavor? Depends where we are. At Baskin-Robbins, it's Daiquri Ice and Rainbow Sherbert. At The Marble Slab, it's vanilla with Reese's Peanut Butter Cups. Ice cream that you get from the store - just plain vanilla.

.: 123 words at 03:42 PM in Friday Five!, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (1) :.

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So much for any good holiday offers in Amazon.com Gold Box Offers.

.: Polder 11-Pound Stainless Steel Scale: what is up with all the cooking utensils? I'm not in the market for anything right now.

.: Farberware 12x18-Inch Poly Cutting Board with Microban: more cooking stuff. We already have something like this.

.: Oneida Flight 20-Piece Stainless Steel Flatware Set, Service for 4: we've got enough silverware, thank you.

.: Old Dutch Copper Beating Bowls and Whisk, Set of 3: these look cool and are a pretty good price at $22.49, but I don't think Steven needs beating bowls.

.: LitterMaid LMR200 Waste Receptacles: these are supposed to be used with cat liter boxes. I don't have a cat, so not a good offer.

.: 130 words at 05:31 PM in The Gold Box, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (1) :.

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Julia Roberts got married today. She dated Benjamin Bratt for almost four years and when they broke up, he got married to someone else a few months later. I'm betting that his marriage lasts longer than hers. Any takers?

.: 40 words at 04:31 PM in Notable News, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (3) :.

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Happy Fourth of July to everyone! I hope you're like me and have the day off and can enjoy it any old way you please. (I think mine will involve alcohol and some other things not for polite eyes.) Have a great day!

.: 43 words at 01:44 PM in Daily Ramblings, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (1) :.

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Congratulations, you are Ursula the Sea Witch! Sly and conniving, you will use any means necessary to secure power and respect for yourself. Your ambition is quite admirable, but your habit of turning the fish-folk into wriggly squishy little wormy things may turn off potential followers.

Take the Disney Villain Test Now!!

(Link courtesy of Heather)

.: 57 words at 10:06 PM in Quizzy Stuff, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (0) :.

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I wish I had my Sony DSC-P71 Cyber-Shot 3MP Digital Camera already so I could take a picture of the beautiful roses I bought on the way home. Randall's was selling a dozen roses for $9.99, so I bought a dozen of the most gorgeous roses I've seen in a long time. They are this really pretty orange-yellow color tipped with red. They look like the sunset. Man, I wish my camera was here so I could take some pictures for Picture Fish!

.: 84 words at 09:59 PM in Daily Ramblings, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (0) :.

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In Iowa a judge has ruled that several area hospitals and Planned Parenthood must give up their records after a newborn baby was found in a trash compactor (read the story here). The director of the Planned Parenthood is refusing and the judge is going to throw her in jail unless she turns over the records on Friday.

What gets me is that there is no evidence that the baby's mother even went to a local hospital or PP. If I was planning on hiding a pregnancy like this woman more than likely did, the last thing I would have done is get the test at a hospital or somewhere that keeps records when I can buy one at the drugstore for a couple of bucks. This seems like such a massive invasion of privacy with little chance of actually finding the woman. What are they going to do? Call every person who tested positive and say, "Excuse me. Are you still pregnant? Can you prove that you either had a baby or a miscarriage? Can we test your DNA?" This is just so wrong. I hope that the director of PP stands her ground and doesn't give in.

(Link courtesy of Nancy)

.: 205 words at 09:49 PM in Rants, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (3) :.

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If you're pro-choice, take a minute and go to Million4Roe.com. There you can sign their petition to help protect legal abortion.

.: 22 words at 07:49 PM in Take Action!, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (1) :.

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Robyn took the "What Ice Cream Flavor Are You?" quiz, so of course I had to follow suit and see what flavor I was.

.: 546 words at 06:47 PM in Quizzy Stuff, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (0) :.

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The local mall was having a blood drive today so after I met Steven for lunch, I decided to go give blood. Not sure if that was the best thing for me to do since I tend to do things like pass out during routine OB-GYN visits. (Yes, that really happened. I started to get really hot, everything went black, and next thing I know they were picking me up off the ground. Speaking of those kind of doctors, I have my annual chick check on Monday so here's to hoping I don't pass out!)

I'd never given blood before, but it was a fairly easy process and I'm glad I did it. I did start to get really light-headed and hot, but the nice guy who was taking my blood put a cold pack on my neck, lowered my feet, and blasted the air conditioning on me and I started immediately feeling better. I think my blood sugar is still a little low so I'm going to leave early for my chiropractor's visit and get some juice from the store to take home.

.: 184 words at 04:12 PM in Fish Tales, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (1) :.

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All I can say is Thank God It's Wednesday. With tomorrow being a national holiday, I decided to take Friday off as well and I am glad I did. I have been so mentally exhausted lately because of shit going on at work. We desperately need another PM. I ended up working until 10:30 last night just so I could get caught up on everything. I have been feeling really burnt out and the last couple of days I've felt like crying at the drop of a hat. I am planning on leaving a little early today, going to the chiropractor (my neck and shoulder are killing me. I'm sure a lot of it is due to stress), then going home, having a drink, and doing nothing for the next four days. I refuse to even think about work once I leave here today. Hurry up, 5:00!

.: 147 words at 10:32 AM in Daily Ramblings, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (2) :.

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It's Wednesday, so time for another "It's a Group Thing" term. I had mentioned last week that I was going to do three kind of related terms. With that in mind, today's term is:

An Improbability of Puffins

.: 38 words at 10:12 AM in It's a Group Thing, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (0) :.

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More strikeouts in today's Amazon.com Gold Box Offers.

.: JET DC-1100 / 708626GK 1100 CFM Dust Collector includes 4" x 10" Hose, Dust Hood, and Clamps: why do they keep offering me things like this? I don't have allergies and am not in need of a vacuum for anything.

.: Bostitch N62FNK-2 15-Gauge Angled Finish Nailer Kit: more tools! Stop offering them to me!

.: Bucket Boss Brand 25005 Super Chutes: something to hold the tools I don't need. How useful.

.: Zircon 64003 Water Detector Electronic Water Alarm: apparently this beeps loudly whenever water hits it so you can know you have a leak. Whatever. Not something I need.

.: Bucket Boss Brand 99981 Mug Boss: something that is actually interesting, though I doubt I'd buy it. It's a little organizer that fits in a coffee cup so you can keep the clutter on your desk in order. Kind of cool, but nothing I would rush out and get since they only knocked $0.50 off the regular price.

.: 175 words at 10:05 AM in The Gold Box, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (1) :.

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Trish has made a new look for Serenity Quest and I am just loving it. Of course, being a fish girl, there was no way I wasn't with all the shells at the top.

.: 34 words at 09:50 AM in Linky Love, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (1) :.

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The ever-talented and oh so sweet Kristine has moved from her love-productions address to a new domain: Kadyellebee. It's a beautiful site and everyone should go take a look at her new digs. Love you, Kristine! :-)

.: 38 words at 12:08 AM in Linky Love, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (1) :.

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Looks like two Amazon.com Gold Box Offers for me today! Of course, nothing worth buying in this one either.

.: Bosch 4000K 10" Worksite Table Saw includes TS1000 Folding Steel Stand and Outfeed Extension: I so don't need one of these. Steven wouldn't use it and I am so clumsy I'd kill myself with it.

.: Allied 59096 131-Piece Automotive Tool Set: why the hell would I want this? I have no tools in my wishlist.

.: Gerber 08239 Legend Multi-Plier 800 Multitool: stop with the freaking tools already!

.: Makita BO4552KX 1/4 Sheet Sander with Case and 15 Sheets of Sandpaper: I have no wood in my house, therefore I have no use for a sander.

.: Shop-Vac 301-01-00 5-Gallon 1.5 HP Wet/Dry Vacuum: at least this is a tool that I could use, but I am not looking for a vacuum cleaner.

.: 149 words at 08:09 PM in The Gold Box, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (0) :.

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Since I can't seem to get focused today, here's my new To Do List.

.: 141 words at 11:46 AM in To Do Lists, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (0) :.

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I visit The Hunger Site and its sister sites The Breast Cancer Site and The Rainforest Site every day. Today they added a new site - The Animal Rescue Site: Feed an Animal in Need. It takes less than a minute to visit all for sites, so please take the time and go contribute to those worthy causes.

.: 59 words at 11:13 AM in Take Action!, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (3) :.

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More misses with my Amazon.com Gold Box Offers.

.: Designs in Copper 51509 Sundrop Garden Stake: kind of cool looking, but once again, I don't have a yard.

.: Norelco 6885XL Deluxe Quadra Action Cord/Cordless Rechargeable Men's Shaver: another freaking shaver. I don't need one of these. Quit offering them to me.

.: Riedel Vinum Chablis/Chardonnay Wine Glasses, Set of 6: Steven and I don't drink wine, so not too useful.

.: Wüsthof Grand Prix 7-Piece Knife Set with Block: man! Stop offering me knives already!

.: Microplane Grater/Zester: second zester they've offered me. I might buy this since Steven cooks, but I don't think he needs one.

.: 114 words at 10:58 AM in The Gold Box, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (0) :.

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I forgot to mention, but Steven has started drawing again. As a matter of fact, from where I set at my computer, I can see him working on the Patrick Nagel picture that he's reproducing. It the one of the lady and the great dane, if you're familiar with his work. Steven's done that one before, but it was stolen many years ago. He did the one of the lady in the yellow top, which is currently hanging over our fish tank, and another Nagel for a friend. He hasn't painted since before we started dating, so I like to see him do this again.

.: 105 words at 01:53 AM in Fish Tales, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (0) :.

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I messed around over at Picture Fish tonight and did a little clean up. The color changer keeps your choice as you visit pages in the site, the archive pages show the same things in the side bar as the main page, added a "Last 50 Referring URLs" script, did the MT last comments hack, and added a link to all categories that each picture is in at the bottom of each individual entry. I'm pretty sure I did some other stuff, but that's all I can remember right now. I'm exhausted and going to go take a shower so I can go to bed, but if you haven't visited Picture Fish yet, go take a look around.

.: 118 words at 01:16 AM in Picture Fish Update, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (2) :.

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Time for Christine's This-or-That Tuesday:

• Cats or dogs?
Used to be cats, but it's probably more dogs now.
• Lions or tigers?
Tigers!
• Cows or pigs?
Cows, but I am ambivalent on this one.
• Turtles or frogs?
Turtles. As a matter of fact, Steven calls me his terrapin turtledove.
• Elephants or giraffes?
Giraffes. Besides, elephants are the GOP's symbol. ;-)
• Butterflies or birds?
Butterflies.
• Deer or moose?
Mooooose. I have a whole story about them.
• Goldfish or swordfish?
Why, goldfish, of course!
• Bunny rabbits or ferrets?
Bunny rabbits, though who can resist a marmot?
• Horses or unicorns?
Unicorns!

.: 99 words at 12:37 AM in This-or-That Tuesday, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (0) :.

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Here's PromoGuy's Monday Mission 2.26:

1. In the United States of America, it was recently ruled that the phrase "one nation under God" in the Pledge of Allegiance is unconstitutional. Do you agree with this ruling? Should the phrase "under God" be removed? Why?
I do agree with this ruling. It's always seemed funny to me that we have a seperation of church and state, but we throw The Bible and god into all sorts of stuff. William had an excellent rant about the whole thing, so I guess I will just go, "Yeah! What he said!" But, no, I think it should be removed.

2. When was the last time you took a road trip? Where did you go and what did you do?
Do you count driving from Phoenix to Tucson with Christine and Krista on our business trip? If so, that's it. Otherwise, the last one was going to Galveston with Jeanna.

3. Do you have any vacations planned for this summer? Already gone? Where to and what?
Steven and I already went to Vegas this year on our annual trip. You can see some of the pictures at Picture Fish.

4. What is the most drastic change to your appearance that you have ever made? Are you brave enough to post a photo?
Well, I guess the most drastic change I have ever done is lose about fifty pounds while I was in college. I still carry my old college ID around, but I don't have it in electronic format to post.

5. Tell me about something to which you are committed?
Steven. I love him. He loves me. We trust each other. We are good to each other. :-)

6. Now tell me about something you just flat-out gave up on.
Hmmm. This is hard, because I don't tend to give up on things. Maybe that I didn't go on to grad school (though that was more of a money thing)? That's all I can come up with.

7. (new saga) I've had it, this place is just wearing me out. You too? We need a break! Let's head out and go someplace new. You make the plans, I'll get things ready. So what do you have it mind, and did you want me to pick up anything special to pack for the trip?
Let's head to Galveston since it's not too far away and I love that place. Why don't you grab some good tunes (Mulin Rouge soundtrack, perhaps?) and some snacks (Cherry Cokes, Funyuns, Reese's Peanut Butter Cups, and whatever you want) and we'll be on our way!

BONUS: Where is my hairbrush?
Mine's by the sink. Want to borrow it?

.: 450 words at 07:14 PM in Monday Missions, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (1) :.

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It's Monday, so time to start the week out right with Jess's Participation Positives!

• I got Picture Fish up and running this weekend and posted my first pictures
• It's a three day work week for me since I get Thursday and Friday off
• I got a new Sony DSC-P71 Cyber-Shot 3MP Digital Camera from Amazon and used tons of gift certificates and coupons, so it was really cheap
• The book I'm reading, Night of the Avenging Blowfish: A Novel of Covert Operations, Love, and Luncheon Meat by John Welter, is hysterical
• Steven started watching The Dead Zone on USA with me and we both really like it
• I got some great support from my manager and boss this past week and, when I think about it, I've come very far in my job in a short amount of time
• I love and am loved

.: 145 words at 11:52 AM in Participation Positives, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (3) :.

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Time to delve into today's Amazon.com Gold Box Offers. Once again, all misses.

.: Zojirushi NS-PC10 Electric 5-Cup Rice Cooker and Warmer: well, we don't make a lot of rice in our house, so not something that we would really need. Isn't this more for sushi? Not something we make at home.

.: Sabatier Laguiole 4-Piece Stainless Steel Steak Knife Set: what is up with all of the food stuff? I haven't bought any of Steven's kitchen gifts from Amazon and don't have any on my wishlist.

.: Got another, "I'm sorry, but we've just run out of this item. Our Gold Box deals are so good, we sometimes can't keep up!" I just have to say it sucks that they waste one of your offers on this.

.: Damn! Got another one of the "we're out" messages. That's two less offers for me today.

.: Wüsthof Grand Prix 2-Piece Knife Starter Set: another knife. Going to pass on these too.

.: 165 words at 11:43 AM in The Gold Box, ";print substr($entry_cats, 0, -2); ?> :: Link :: :: All the Voices Say... (1) :.

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