Tuesday, June 30, 2009

Alrighty Then


I read this rather bizarre article today in a local business journal. The author was attempting to understand why the economy is the way it is, what caused it and how it can become better. Quite an undertaking on his part, to explain all that to the masses in less than a page.

Only he couldn’t. He’s found the more research he does and the more he learns, the more confused he becomes because there’s so much conflicting information available, all penned by so called experts. At one point he paraphrased Darwin, the more ignorant a person is, the more certain of their opinions they are. Yeah, I get that one. I’ve often fallen back on the adage of speak clearly and firmly and sound like you know and very few will ever know the difference. It’s amazed me no end what nonsense can be spewed only to have others take it as fact, simply because I sounded rational and confident.

He went on to quote A Short History of Nearly Everything by Bill Bryson. I’ll share it with you because it has me convinced I need to read this book. From a chapter about Quarks and particles: “The upshot of all this is that we live in a universe whose age we cannot quite compute, surrounded by stars whose distances we don’t altogether know, filled with matter we can’t identify, operating in conformance to physical laws whose properties we don’t truly understand.” Think about that statement for a moment, if you will, and you should understand why I like it so much. He then added that the experts quoted in the book concluded that the universe was mostly composed of DUNNOS (Dark Unknown Nonreflective Nondetectable Objects). I find that truly funny, don’t you? No? That’s fine. It’s always okay to disagree with me though I do wish you’d express your thoughts, at least occasionally.

In the end, with all of the confusion that kept expanding on him exponentially, one of the options for weathering the current economic storm that he found worth considering was to sit down, have a beer and wait for it to pass. Or, as he put it, don’t just do something, stand there.

Monday, June 29, 2009

Releasing Tuesday - Hot Rush


As in tomorrow! From Ellora's Cave.

Blurb:

Rick Jensen is working undercover to bust up the largest drug distribution in the city’s recent history. Everything is going as planned until the hottest redhead he’s ever seen comes storming into the warehouse. Now if only he can stop thinking with his cock long enough to save her luscious ass and convince her that love at first sight really does exist.

Being sentimental has always been Casey Carmichael’s downfall. But this time her impulsiveness lands her right in the middle of a full contingent of heavily armed drug dealers. When one of them tosses her over his shoulder and carries her up to the office the last thing she expects is out of control sex with the undercover cop trying to protect her.

Excerpt:

“All right. Where’s my fucking canoe? I want it and I want it now!”
A second before the screaming started, the door banged open to reveal the most furious redhead Rick Jensen had ever seen. And the most weirdly gorgeous in a he-couldn’t-put-his-finger-on-it-and-now-wasn’t-the-time-or-place-to-analyze-it way, too. Who the hell was she and what the hell was she doing, barging in on a full contingent of armed drug dealers in their lair as they were preparing for one of the biggest distributions they’d put together in months?
“Come on, I said now, damn it!” the woman screeched.
And more importantly, how the hell was Rick going to keep her alive long enough to get her out of there without blowing his cover or the operation, which was the culmination of many months of hard work by multiple organizations all coming to a head hopefully that night?
All eyes and most guns turned to the woman. Rick heard the clicks, signifying that they were ready to fire even if she didn’t. He had to draw their attention away from her.
“Hey, darlin’. I thought I told you not to interrupt me when I’m working.” He put himself between her and the array of weaponry, turning to face the room. “It’s cool, boys. She’s mine.”
The spitfire wasn’t having any of it and tried to shove him out of her way. “Yours? Ha! You wish. Look, all I want is what I came for and then I’m outa here.”
“I dunno, homes. It don’t look like it to me,” one of the armed men said, not lowering his gun.
“She’s just pissed. Come on, Lucy. Don’t do me like that. You’re gonna make me look bad in front of my boys.” He grabbed her hair, forced her head back and planted a wet kiss on her startled mouth.
The slap that followed earned a round of boisterous laughter and lewd comments but it also managed to get the men to stow their weapons. “Don’t you ‘Lucy’ me!”
“Feisty bitch,” Rick declared before kissing her harder. “Look lady, I’m trying to keep your sweet ass alive here so work with me, would ya?” he whispered so only she heard.
“Huh?”
“She always gets this way when she’s gone without for too long, don’t ya, darlin’?”
Before the woman could respond, the obvious leader asked, “What’d she say about wanting a canoe?”
Rick forced a chuckle, all the while racking his brain for something plausible. “Oh that’s just what she calls my cock.” Not the best answer but hopefully the men would buy it and she’d play along.
“Fuck, like you got something like that,” another joined in.
“Tell ’em, Lucy.”
“What? Are you out of your mind?”
“Only when it comes to you.”

Friday, June 26, 2009

Wandered Again


Last night was hot and I was too restless to stay at home so I went for another walk in the cemetery. With all the huge trees and grass it was surprisingly pleasant.

Since I’ll be going back I decided it might be time to do a bit of research. In 1846, Charles Evans donated 25 acres of his estate to be made into a garden cemetery. It was the third one established in the country. Prior to that, all burials were on church grounds or private, family land. In 183, the first such cemetery was designated in Boston. The idea for it was to be a place for public, non-sectarian burials in addition to a beautifully landscaped area to commune with nature as well as deceased loved ones. On pleasant days, people would go for strolls and often picnic by the graves. In other words, garden cemeteries were a precursor to public parks.

At the time it began the Charles Evans cemetery was one mile from Reading. Now, it’s part of the city. Upon his death in 1847, he left three-quarters of the rest of his estate, bringing the size of the cemetery to 127 acres. Due to the act of the General Assembly incorporated in 1846, no street, lane, or road can ever cross the grounds, nor will they ever be subject to taxation.

Last night I walked around the end opposite from where I was last time. From there you could actually sit on the hill and listen to the Reading Phillies game in the distance. I found some awesome angels and went for a stroll with four deer. They weren’t at all concerned that I was there. They let me get so close I forgot all about taking pictures of them. I will next time. I found a doorway in a tree. I tapped, meaning to introduce myself, but no one seemed to be home. Then I came across the gazebo. There are benches inside and I can imagine spending an afternoon reading there. Perhaps on a rainy day. This angel is nearby. Want to join us?

Thursday, June 25, 2009

A Question and a Cover

I was asked today if I could identify something. No, I couldn’t. I didn’t have a clue what it might be but I said I’d check with you to see if you had any guesses.

It’s a thin piece of metal, 1/8”X 8” to 10”. The gentleman who asked me told me that he finds many of them in parking lots, along the curb going into the stores. Since he first noticed them, he now looks for them and says they’re everywhere. It doesn’t matter what type of store it is. There are days when he finds several in one spot. He has asked a friend who is a deliveryman and he had no suggestions either. Any ideas?

The cover guru strikes again! Isn’t it gorgeous? Chaos releases September 30th from Ellora’s Cave. It’s book two in my Cosmic Connections series.

Wednesday, June 24, 2009

Almost Scary


Ever have a day when you were just plain cheerful? That was me today. Frighteningly so. In the midst of all the chaos going on around me it was all I could do not to giggle. Trust me, doing so would have been most inappropriate for much of the day.

I know I should never apologize for having a good day. We all deserve them, more often than we have them. But there was so much unpleasant stuff happening that I felt almost guilty about the harmonious inner peace that filled me. Really, I wished several times that my tranquility could have rubbed off on some of those I encountered throughout my day.

So why am I so chipper at the moment? Dunno. Could be lots of reasons or perhaps a combination of all of the above. I know better than to question it. Much more fun, in my opinion, to just go with it and hope it keeps building on itself. If it does, I could be damn dangerous by the end of the week.

Who wants to go out and play with me?

Tuesday, June 23, 2009

New Friend?


Last night as I was putting things in place before heading to bed I heard a cat chirping. It didn’t sound like any of my boys and none of them were in sight so I went to investigate.

I found them clustered around the dining room window, Harry and Quinn on the sill, Bixby on the floor looking like he was about to join them. They were all quiet so I peeked out. There, on the ledge looking in, was a huge tan and black tiger cat. He’s the one who was doing all the talking. I don’t know what he was saying but my boys didn’t seem particularly upset by his being there which surprised me. They were much more interested than agitated.

He wasn’t at all intimidated by my presence. In fact, I spoke to him and he chirped in response. I’ve seen him a few times from a distance when I was out in the yard but he’s never meandered over to see me. I wonder if he will, now that he’s introduced himself.

Monday, June 22, 2009

And You Drink This Stuff


Here’s a list of alternative uses for Coke I found and thought you soda drinkers needed to see.

1. Barbecue sauce – mix 1 cup Coke with 1 cup ketchup and heat until thick.
2. Clean greasy fingerprints from sunglasses. The citric acid in Coke loosens grime and grease.
3. Turn wilted grass green faster – mix 1 cup Coke, 1 cup ammonia and ¼ cup dish soap. Shake well and use a spray bottle to spritz it on the faded spot in your lawn. The high levels of carbon dioxide in conjunction with sugar and water nourish the grass.
4. Pour 1-liter of Coke that’s gone flat into your compost heap to give it a boost.
5. Remove bloodstains from clothing by dousing with Coke and letting sit for 5 minutes before laundering.
6. Pest proof gardens. Pour Coke into shallow plates to draw creepy-crawlies with the sugar. The acid content will then poison them.
7. Make skunk odor disappear from pets who have been sprayed. Caution – use only on dark colored pets. Coke stains light fur.
8. Clean corrosion from car battery terminals by pouring it on, letting it sit for 15 minutes and then brushing off. The fizzing bubble and acid eat away at the gunk. Be sure to disconnect the cables first.
9. Keep drains running smoothly. Empty a 2-liter bottle down a pesky drain, let sit for 1 hour and then run hot water for 1 minute to flush. Again, bubble and acid clean gunk.
10. Soothe a jellyfish sting. Pour Coke over the area and it will deactivate and stingers left inside, preventing further injection of venom.

Sunday, June 21, 2009

Today's Trek


Yesterday was my great aunt’s 93rd birthday. We were to have lunch then but it was raining too hard to see the road so the trip was postponed until today.

She is such a sweetheart. I wish you could meet her. Her body is slowing down, more each time I see her but there is still absolutely nothing wrong with her mind. I love to get her talking about her life. Imagine all the changes she’s seen. Think about it. She was born in 1916.

Today wasn’t a good reminiscing day because my mom and brother were with me. My great aunt and I do much better at talking when they’re not around. They’re too impatient to bother to listen once she starts to ramble whereas I encourage her. I feel a little sad for them. They miss so much.

She lives in Carlisle which is the prettiest little town. It’s got Dickenson Law College and the PA War Museum in the Carlisle Barracks. There is a designated historic district in the center of town but the rest of the place adheres fairly well to what they set for that area. Very cool, old houses with gorgeous gardens. Driving down the street you have the impression that people for the most part still care about their homes. Lawns are mowed, litter is virtually absent and you don’t see junk in yards like is so common elsewhere. It’s really a very impressive place. If only it were on the ocean instead of in central Pennsylvania it would be the perfect place for me. Ah well, I suppose you can’t have everything.

Today we had lunch at Red Lobster, her choice, and she seemed quite pleased when we left. To me, that’s what was important. She was happy so I am happy. Last time I visited, it was a bit of a sad day but not today. Today my great aunt was her most awesome self, full of smiles and ready to go. Yay!

Saturday, June 20, 2009

Taking the Day Off



















But if you can't wait, I misbehaved over on MySpace.
Click here if you're curious.

Friday, June 19, 2009

New Powers


Yesterday on my way home I was very well behaved. I did not pull over at the corner in order for the gentlemen to toss a vanilla caramel flan in my car window as I do from time to time.

What a good girl I was. Only last night I was sitting there, really wishing I hadn’t been. The next thing I know there’s a tap at my door. I looked out and low and behold who’s standing there but one of the guys in the dark blue shirts with a flan in his hand.

How cool is that! Apparently I now have the ability to summon the flan man.

Yesterday I told you about Southern Culture on the Skids. I took a break from writing last night and was playing, checking out what other things they sing that I might like. I noticed they do a version of Mustang Sally. I didn’t listen to it because I already know that song.

This morning I wished I had. Of course I didn’t have time at the moment. But you know what happened? When I turned on the radio in the car that’s the song that was playing. Not the SCOTS version but still pretty darn impressive.

Yes, I’m just full of hidden talents this week. I can’t wait to see what else I can do that I don’t know about yet.

Thursday, June 18, 2009

It's Good to Have Friends


I have a friend whose man does all my technological music stuff. You know, transferring cassettes to CD. That sort of thing. He’s so cool. He even takes the time to make me covers. I suspect that is more for my friend than me but that’s okay. I’m pleased to have them which makes her happy with him.

Works well. Or I should say it usually works well. Last time I saw him he gave me a cassette and CD that aren’t mine. I told my friend the next time we spoke, saying I’d drop it off soon. Fine, right? Um, nope. As it turns out my trying to do the right thing and return what isn’t mine caused major battles in their household. It seems he insists that it is mine.

I was on my way to visit the other day and mentioned it, not knowing about the argument, and was asked to just keep it. My friend didn’t feel up to round 14 just then. Alright. No problem. Didn’t want to aggravate things but I already had it in Howie and had other errands so I popped the cassette in as I was out and about.

Have you ever listened to Southern Culture on the Skids? The one I’ve taken possession of is Dirt Track Date and I have to tell you, some of the songs are worth listening to. Of course some of the others are too odd for words but isn’t that often the case, a song or two in every collection that’s a tad bizarre?

I’m sure whoever this really belongs to will eventually remember where they left it and I’ll have to return it but I think I’ll keep a copy. Now if only one of my friends would start dating a plumber.

Wednesday, June 17, 2009

Scream Dreams



I woke up screaming again last night and only an hour after I’d gone to bed early because I wasn’t feeling well yesterday.

The same guy tried to catch me so he could kill me. This man has been around for a few years now. He’s getting closer to succeeding and more clever about it. In order for him to be around there have to be certain symbols visible. At first they had to be blatant. Like the time he tried to trap me within a house and they took the form of garden ornaments on stakes. If he’d gotten them all blocking the doors and windows I wouldn’t have been able to escape because touching them is poisonous to me.

The next close call he was wearing a polo shirt with the main symbol embroidered on it like an Izod alligator. I was in the apartment I often stay in within my dreams, second story this time. Yep, that changes randomly and no, it’s not an apartment I’ve ever seen. He scaled the side of the house and was coming in the kitchen window. I must have been expecting him because I’d sharpened the bottom edge of the screen so that when I slammed it, I chopped off the tips of his fingers. Then, as he was laying on the ground, screaming at me, I poured whatever was boiling on the stove out the window and on him. Wasn’t really that hot by the time it hit him since it didn’t scar. I’m sure it would have because he’s still missing his fingertips.

A few nights ago he managed to catch me and chain me to a post in the basement of a building that was being demolished. It was rigged to implode. I heard the charges start to go off, getting closer with each one, but I screamed myself awake before I was crushed so I escaped.

Last night I was walking somewhere dark. I thought I was safe even though I could hear him behind me since he can’t get me unless I see the symbols. Can’t do that in the dark so no problem, right? Um, nope. Wrong. I looked up and saw a billboard for a local store brand of ice cream, the same billboard I pass constantly because it honestly exists just a few blocks from my house. Only in the dream there was a symbol in the bottom corner. Now I’m afraid to drive by it for real. What if it’s now there too? What if he’s gotten out of my dreams and is really waiting for me?

I got away, again by screaming myself awake. Then I talked to my most amazing friend who has a tremendous knack for calming me down so I don’t slip right back into the dream. What I don’t know is what I did originally to make this man hate me so much that he’s determined to kill me. I’ve wondered at times, what happens if he ever succeeds. Will he then leave me alone? Oh I’m realistic. Dying won’t stop the dreams altogether. No, he’ll be replaced by some other nightmare, probably more terrifying than he is if past experience means anything.

Yeah, so much fun around here some nights. And why you should never be surprised to get an email from me obviously written in the wee hours because I have to make sure I’m fully awake or I step right back into it.

Tuesday, June 16, 2009

More Writer News


I know. Two days in a row. Can you stand it! This is the cover for the Exotika I mentioned last week that doesn’t release until November 27th. Isn’t it gorgeous!

I noticed something about my writing lately. I seem to be stuck in first person mode. Not necessarily a bad thing, just a tad odd. But that’s me, isn’t it? I considered being concerned but decided against it. It’s happened before and wore off. It’ll likely happen again. But it does have me wondering. Do you like reading things that are more of a narrative, a reminiscence rather than a traditional story? Do you mind having only one point of view or do you prefer to know what everyone is thinking?

The only real problem with this is that it’s making progress on what I was revising damn near impossible. Hmm, I suppose that one will have to wait a bit because I’ve learned not to try to force things. Instead I’ve started something new. It was meant to be one of my fun little flashes, a writing exercise for me just to assure myself I still can, but it’s taken on a personality of its own. I’m not really sure where it’s take me but it’s an adventure so I’m going along for now. Maybe I’ll need to reel it in later, maybe not. We’ll see once I get wherever it is this is going.

Now a question for my writer friends. What do you do when your characters leads you in unexpected directions?

One last tidbit and I’ll leave you to it. If you ever find yourself in Portland, Oregon don’t whistle while underwater. It’s illegal there and, as much fun as I’d have reporting that you were arrested for something so silly, it’s kind of far for me to come bail you out. Hmm, I wonder if that includes bathtubs and how, if it does, that one is enforced?

Monday, June 15, 2009

Released Today!

From Total-E-Bound

Blurb:

Sometimes it pays to revisit the past.

Jane runs from a smothering ex who won’t take no for an answer right into the last thing she’s looking for—a mysterious stranger who appears wherever she is, watching her.

Simon knows they’re meant for each other the first time he sees her. Why she can’t just do as he says and accept that is almost beyond him.Can some help from an interested observer be what they need to have a forever together?

Reader Advisory: This story was released as part of the Bound Brits Anthology by Total-E-Bound

Excerpt:

“Enough,” he snapped. “Lower your voice or I’ll give you the spanking you deserve right here.”

She balked. “As if. You don’t have the balls…”

“Bloody hell.” In a flash, he had his foot propped up on the nearest ledge and Jane bent over his thigh. Her arms were twisted behind her back, her wrists clamped in one hand. “Silence, Miss Templeton.” His flattened palm landed on her curved cheek.

“Hey, ow.” She struggled to get free.

“I said silence. Hold still,” he commanded with a flurry of swats. His hand was beginning to sting.
Even though she was protected by a layer of denim and presumably some sort of knickers her arse probably was too. He wished he were able to watch her cheeks turn that spectacular shade of red and feel the heat radiating from her smarting flesh. That she’d pushed him to administer her first spanking today, here, prematurely, instead of as he’d planned infuriated him even more than her childish disregard of common sense. He clipped her harder.

“Stop. Oh God, stop or I’ll scream,” she gasped, squirming in a futile attempt to avoid the blows.

“No. You won’t. You know that as well as I do because you would have already done so were you going to.” His hand flew ceaselessly.

“Please,” she whimpered, crying openly. “Please. Don’t.”

The haze of anger faded enough for him to realise that her reaction was changing. At first, Jane had fought to escape and to shift away from his hand. She had been rigid with fear and demanding he release her. Now however, her entire demeanour was altered. He became more methodical with his slaps and was thrilled with how her hips shifted as if seeking more. Moans interrupted her sobs. She continued to beg, softly now, but for him to continue instead of to stop.

“Are you ready to be reasonable?” he asked, pausing the spanking to caress her curves.

His voice seemed to draw her from the trance and Jane stiffened immediately. “You bastard! Let me go.”

Renewed fury surged through him and he resumed her punishment. “Language, Miss Templeton,” he repeated. “I won’t tolerate it.” He emphasised his words with a few strategically placed smacks. “If I need to remind you again, I’ll thrash your bare arse no matter where we are.” His thumb grazed the seam of her jeans covering her slit. “I can feel your wetness through your trousers. I can’t wait to witness it unhindered.

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to buy.

Sunday, June 14, 2009

Let's Walk


I wanted to go for a walk only that’s not the easiest thing to do around here these days. I’ve never really worried much about it before but there was a big fuss on the radio this week about women who were mugged on one of our public bike/walking trails in the middle of the day while walking together so I wondered at whether I should go alone.

I finally decided to wander around one of the cemeteries. Rather perfect, actually. Pretty and green, lots of old trees for shade, plenty to entertain me, and no one to bother me. What more could I ask for?

I started at the area nearest the entrance, the oldest section, and found some really cool stuff. I came across this tombstone for Augustus Homan from Civil War times that made me wonder about who he was. It’s very elaborate as you can see. Back then they used to put exactly how old they were when they died. The stones also told a bit about who they were. It’s kind of sad that tradition has been lost because I think this stone is gorgeous.

During my stroll I also came across this raised table. Unfortunately it wasn’t made of the same lasting stone that old Augustus’s was so nothing remained of the inscription. Anyone know why it was set up like this? I didn’t see anymore graves arranged in this particular fashion on this walk. Perhaps I’ll find another one because I’m planning on going back again. I’ll let you know if I stumble across anything else particularly interesting.

Saturday, June 13, 2009

Celebrate!


My Penguins won the Stanley Cup last night. Come dance in the street with me!

What made it even better is a few minutes after the game I heard from an old friend who no longer lives in the area. Years ago I talked her into going to a Pens/Flyers game in Philadelphia. Naturally I wore something Penguin related, bold considering we were in enemy territory. As I recall there was some good-natured teasing that went on with some of those around us and I think I may have worried B a bit when the Pens scored but we had fun. We must have. She’s still talking to me even though she got out of Reading a long time ago. Thanks for the memories, B. It’s always wonderful to hear from you.

Today, while I was out and about, in my Penguins shirt of course, I stopped in to see J, my Flyers fan friend. Yes, I admit it. I went specifically to misbehave. I’m sure he expected it as I would have expected him to had his Flyers won the cup.

What did you do today?

Friday, June 12, 2009

Pandemic


I read a rather interesting article about this today. No, I didn’t really mean to. It was just the only thing around to read at the moment and I decided it was better than sitting there. In case you’re wondering why I don’t write at such times it’s because I’d get much to lost and wouldn’t want to stop when I needed to. Reading such an article was easily interrupted.

Anyway I did learn some stuff I thought I’d pass on. It’s up to you whether you continue reading this or not. The first is that unlike other yearly flus that attack those with the weakest immune systems, the elderly and very young, a flu with pandemic potential affects those who are active and otherwise healthy, as in the 20- to 40-year old population. It attacks the sturdiest immune systems, causing them to respond in such a way as to kill of the victims from within. As in your own immune system kills you by trying to fight off the flu virus, not the flu itself. Perhaps I should have already known this however I didn’t. Not in such specific terms.

Now I admit I really haven’t been paying all that much attention to the details in the news. I’m personally fine and no one I know has the flu so I saw no immediate need even though Berks County has the highest amount of confirmed cases in the state.

The journal I read was business related so it pointed out things I’d never really considered. The biggest task, as they see it, is to keep money, cash, available to the population. That means doing whatever is necessary to keep ATM machines functioning. What’s so hard about that, you ask? Think about it for a moment.

In a severe outbreak, the average worker will be unproductive for approximately 28 days, whether from illness itself or from the need to provide care to someone else. It’s recommended that companies plan for a 40-60 percent reduction in the work force for at least several weeks if not months. In Pennsylvania that translates to 2.5 to 4 million people off of work for the flu or flu related care giving. And that’s only sick people from the workforce. Add on to that the people not working whether they’re unemployed, retired or underage and you can start to see what a mess this could be should the worst case scenario occur.

Now take all those sick people out of the daily mix that keeps us all functioning as a society. Not only will there be a tremendous impact on manufacturing and service industries but also hospitality, entertainment portions of the economy will suffer extensively too. People who aren’t currently infected will very likely go into social isolation which will only make things worse though really, you can’t blame them and social distancing is, in fact, something that’s recommended during a pandemic of epic proportions. No more conventions, trips to the dentist or hairdresser. Even hanging out at the local malls will end.

So yes, now you can see how difficult it may be to maintain something so common place as ATM machines. What if there simply is no one around to replenish them? Or what if the computer system that ties them all together fails?

The article continues with suggesting every organization have a mission critical plan in place. They must prioritize what is most essential and focus on keeping that segment of their business running which for most places means intensive cross training. I don’t know about you but I have serious doubts about that occurring. Then there are issues such as what to do if power is lost, if essential supplies simply aren’t coming in, if there’s no way to communicate. I won’t even get into the whole health care overload aspect of all this.

But even when it’s over it won’t be. There will be a sudden demand surge for everyone who is back out there. Unstable businesses will fail, potentially leaving gaps and causing the returning workforce to need restructuring. It will take months, perhaps even years, to get everything sorted out.

The big picture should the worst happen is a bit intimidating, isn’t it? Hopefully, we won’t be tested but sooner or later you know it will happen. Okay, enough doom and gloom. Enjoy your weekend.

Thursday, June 11, 2009

Annoyed


Sorry. Time for a rant. No, wait. I’m not sorry.

What is it with people who use either all capital letters or all lower case ones in emails? Haven’t you figured out how to work even the basics of your computers? Or are you just so lazy you can’t be bothered? Hmm, perhaps you think it’s cute. Well, let me tell you something. Unless you’re a four year old girl, it isn’t. Be an adult. Use the shift key. Use punctuation. Spell out words fully. Don’t write lol unless you feel something is honestly amusing enough to make me laugh for real.

If someone sends me an email to get my attention and ignores all of the above they’ll have it all right. Not, however, in the way I suspect they want. In fact, the next time I get an email from them I may just not bother opening it. If they can’t show me you put at least minimal thought into contacting me, as in capitalizing the first letter of my name, then why should I be interested in anything about them? Let me just say, I’m worth a hell of a lot more than that and no, I am not being conceited in saying so. Why? Simply because we all are.

A little respect and courtesy here people. That’s all I’m asking for. Give me some and you can expect the same in return. Otherwise you may as well go away right now because you will never be anything more than an aggravation to me. Come on, put some effort into leaving a decent impression of yourself.

That said, I will now qualify it. Once we’re friends and I know you’re not a complete idiot then yes, you can get away with lots. You can, if excited, forget the shift key exists. You can abbreviate things. Some of you might even be welcome to use a small “b” when writing my name but that is reserved for a select few and only those who truly understand what it signifies.

Got it?

Wednesday, June 10, 2009

June 10

Today was my father’s birthday. This year, he would have been 80.

My dad was far from perfect. He was a school psychologist. Yeah, the irony of that has never been lost on me. I was, putting it mildly, a difficult child. But, in spite of that, we still managed to have our moments. Even though my mother tried her best to prevent them.

I miss him. Sad.

Tuesday, June 9, 2009

Rambling


Donald Duck made his debut 75 years ago today in the cartoon The Wise Little Hen.

We had the coolest storm this morning. Just the rain alone when it started was enough to send Quinn running. And then there was a good solid twenty minutes of the most spectacular thunder and lightning, the kind that rattled the house and sizzled. Poor kitty but it was over far too soon for me. There’s a chance of more tonight. Yay!

Speaking of sizzle, last night something, I suspect a major transformer went sizzle, snap, boom and then there was no power in my corner of the world. We used to have transformers blow about once a summer but generally not until the temperature was over a hundred for a few days straight so I don’t know what happened. That stopped when the bar on the corner had their own transformer installed. Last night they were without power too. You should have seen the people scurrying away from there. My solution – It was almost dark so I went to bed.

It’s migraine season here. Yesterday was very bad off and on. Today it’s back about half way. I could almost see, my fingers functioned enough that I could sort of write and I knew my name so I went to work. My personal rule has always been to try unless I'm nauseous. Hey, I have to. I might feel worse tomorrow.

Have I mentioned how much I hate summer?

Monday, June 8, 2009

Watched Some TV


I saw a commercial for Smooth My Sole. Have you seen it yet? It starts out talking about replacing pedicures. Got my attention since I love to have my feet rubbed.

The ad went on to show how you can now slice off the edges of your feet at home with what looks like a super sharp cheese grater. Oh, and then have to deal with the skin you peel away. But it’s okay. The gizmo, which is red, is touted to be “cute”.

Um, no thanks. I’ll stick to the professionals.

And speaking of Dr. Scholl’s, yes, that’s who makes that thingy, I miss exercise sandals. When I wore them all the time I could make so much noise, having the wood slap against the soles of my feet. Or I could be quiet as a kitten if I was in stealth mode. I’m sure I have a pair somewhere around here. I may have to dig them out. I wonder if I can still walk in them after wearing crocs the last few years.

Sunday, June 7, 2009

It's Sunday


Eat cake.

While you’re at it, have some for me too please. I was well behaved at the grocery store this morning. Well, not really. I didn’t buy any cake. But I didn’t exactly behave either. I’ve been having some trouble with that lately. Behaving. As in me, not food choices. Those I’ve been fairly good with.

Hmm, do you think I can get away with blaming it on the full moon? The only problem with that is after tonight full moon is over again and I suspect my misbehaving is not. Oh well, at least I’m having fun. And I’m harmless. Well, mostly harmless. Or harmless as far as most of you are concerned. But I wouldn’t be me if I were completely harmless to everyone.

Yeah, I know. Not making much sense here. That’s okay. It’s my blog and the only person it really needs to make sense to is me. When I stop doing that I suppose I’ll be in some sort of trouble. Or I’ll have even more fun, waiting to see what it is I do next along with you. I’ve done that before. I call them my Nike moments. Haven’t had one lately so I’m due.

Boy, could I tell you stories. Hahaha, nope, not going to. Not here anyway. To hear those you’ll have to come visit in person and then we’ll talk. Let’s just say sometimes I’m amazed I’m still alive and leave it at that.

Yup, it’s still Sunday. Eat cake.

Saturday, June 6, 2009

Out for Lunch


As I was driving down 5th Street today I noticed a baseball rolling along beside me. It was in the left turn lane. I wonder where it was going.

I had lunch with Neeley and Riley today. Completely unplanned. I was already out and about when I got a text from Neeley saying she happened to be in town for the weekend if I wanted to get together. I was hungry so I suggested lunch at Ronie’s. Yep, she had time and would bring mom with her. They’re the best!

Ronie’s, if you’ve never been there, is an experience. I know I’ve rambled about it before so I’ll spare you. I highly recommend it at least once in your life. Tell Ronie your mine and perhaps he’ll even decide to serve you.

We had a great visit. As expected Ronie wasn’t about to let us leave without some urging. Yeah, he holds those he likes captive by never taking your money. I always need to ask specifically to be permitted to pay even though he’s wandered by the cash I put out several times, deliberately ignoring it. In a way it’s kind of nice, having a place that’s so much like home they don’t want you to leave. Today I only had to ask once. In the past, there have been occasions when I’ve needed to make my request several times. I miss hanging out there. If only he had a wireless hook up. Then I could say hi directly from there. May have to talk to him about that one.

What did you do today?

Friday, June 5, 2009

More Rain Please


I woke up during the night with Harry sleeping in the middle of my back. Not a big deal. There’s often a cat on top of a part of me. The problem this time, however, is that I had my arm twisted around in a weird way and Harry kept it trapped there. So today, it hurts like hell all by itself. Little things like shifting Howie, typing this, simply turning my wrist are enough to make me want to cry. And picking something up? Forget it.

It made walking in to work rather interesting since we had another perfectly gorgeous rainy day. Had I been going anywhere else I wouldn’t have attempted the umbrella. Normally I love to walk in the rain. I don’t mind being a little wet at all. But I really didn’t think it would go over well if I shorted out my computer because I was dripping on it.

As far as that goes the whole week has been very hard on me. It’s rained every day and for the most part, I’ve been stuck inside and unable to enjoy it. What a waste. Sometimes you just need to take a stroll in the rain. It soothes your soul. Well, it does mine anyway. Yep, could’ve used some soul soothing this week. And of course it's going to be sunny this weekend. Damn!

There are those that snicker at my collection of multi-colored crocs. I just added a pair that looks like tree bark. With a butterfly charm. Still don’t have any yellow ones though but do I need them since Howie is yellow? But I digress. Where was I? Oh yeah. Something they don’t realize is that crocs are plastic and easily removed. That means I can kick my crocs off for a few minutes and both my feet and my shoes are dry while they sit around in soggy socks. Ha!

Okay, I’ve rambled enough. Time to shut up before I go somewhere I shouldn’t. Have a good weekend.

Thursday, June 4, 2009

Big Weekend


It’s time for Reading’s annual World War II weekend. Held at the local airport, the event takes place Friday through Sunday with the gates opening every morning at 8:30.

There’s plenty for everyone to do, from and air show to vintage planes that you can explore to speakers who were actually there, to re-enactors doing everything from skirmishing to singing including a battle in a recreated French village to a department store selling goods from the 1940’s era.

This year, instead of just wandering through the planes they’re offering rides. What fascinates me is that one of the planes they’re advertising boasts a .30 caliber machine gun. I wonder if the cost of ammunition is part of the $450 ride fee or if that’s extra and if they have a set route or you get to choose whose house you pepper. Hmm, may have to look into that one a little deeper.

If you want more information, click here. And if you’re stopping by, let me know and we’ll meet for lunch.

Wednesday, June 3, 2009

I Wonder


I heard a phrase today. Just a snippet in passing.

“…the immorality of otherworldliness…”

Kind of cool in and of itself but it sure has me curious about the rest of the conversation. Really, it’s not something you hear every day in the street now is it?

So here’s your chance. Fill in the blanks for me. When would you use that particular phrase?

Tuesday, June 2, 2009

Writer News


It's way early to tell you about this but I'm going to anyway because I really like this book.

Controlled Desires has a release date! November 27th from Ellora's Cave. It's an Exotika. I had so much fun writing it and I think you'll be able to tell when you read it.

Blurb:
I’ve always prided myself on being an independent woman. Strong and capable and able to deal with most everything myself. Not that I want to necessarily, more that I’ve never met anyone with the fortitude to handle me. Until he walked into the office one day and life as I knew it ceased to exist. Or, to be specific, being fucked by him turned my whole world upside down.

He’s your basic superior-acting, control freak, the ultimate take-charge guy. Yes, as you might guess, I don’t do well being told what to do. Only thing is he somehow saw right through all my toughness, straight to my hidden desires. The ones I didn’t even know I have. But now that I do, oh my, how my life has changed! Mm, the things I do for him, with him, in front of him. You can’t begin to imagine…

Monday, June 1, 2009

Celebrate!


Today is Bixby's birthday. He's 18 and still playing! He's just had his birthday tuna and now he's demanding attention so I have to go. We have to play with his new toy quick while the other two are out on the porch for their daily dose of bird watching because they'll surely steal it as soon as they realize it's new.

Have a good night and do something fun in Bix's honor.