A Swift Kick & A Band-Aid

Everyone Around Me Thinks I'm Going Crazy...

It has been brought to my attention that for my poor blogging habits I am at risk of being deleted from the sidebar of blogs all across the world...

Ok, maybe not across the world ... but from one particular blog on the other side of the country at least ... (you know who you are)

Not only that, but I realize I have been a bad friend ...
and I don't really have the excuse of being too busy because, well ... I have no idea what I am so busy doing. *sigh*

Frankly, I think I'm just depressed that there is no DC Milblog Conference this year.

But I promise ... I haven't forgotten anyone and I miss you

You Think You're One of Millions, But You're One in a Million to Me

So, I find myself reading books that came from blogs instead of reading actual, um ... blogs. It feels really strange, to be perfectly honest.

On the other hand, it has renewed my interest in this blog ... who knows to what end at this point. I don't really seem to stick to much of anything these days, now do I?

I laugh at the stories these women are telling, thinking to myself ... I should get in on this racket - I'm funny ... While at the same time thinking ... Why on earth would anyone read a book of my life ... and why am I reading one about theirs?

So ... you tell me? What's it gonna take to get this junk in print so I can afford that damn laptop I am still drooling over?

I ain't settlin for just gettin by
I've had enough so so, for the rest of my life

If you sent me an email or a comment in the last 2 weeks and haven't heard back from me ... it is because spam is filling my inbox. I have grown weary of even turning on my computer lately because it is just so annoying.

I haven't cleaned up any of the spam comments ... so I apologize for the offensive bullshit they've left lying around.

If anyone has found a good way to deal with spam on a munu blog ... please, let me know. I don't have the patience to deal with this crap at the end of the day.

Spawning Is Much Better Than Spamming

Looks like I haven't been keeping a close enough eye on my little blog-bro, RSM ... He's brought a son into the blog-family.

Viking Medic was announced to the family this morning as our newest addition. He seems like a nice enough kid, but he is RSM's son after all ... so we'll see how long that lasts. J/K bro ...

Go check him out at The Quest for Valhalla

Year Two: I'm Still Here!

Its officially two years today since content first landed on the pages of this blog.

A lot has happened in two years.

I am reminded that even though this site was not my first jump into blogging, I am still blogging for the same reasons. I am still searching for words to understand my world (and the things that happen in it), trying to connect my fingers to my heart so that my head may glimpse the hidden perspective.

More often than not, I feel like I am venting ... complaining with anger about something that cannot be changed. It does not stop me from believing that I have the power to influence the world like it could. Instead, I find myself motivated to find another solution, a way around the roadblock, insistent that I can prevail.

I'm not sure how the humor creeps in, but it does ... maybe we'd all go a little insane if it didn't.

So ... Happy Blogiversary!!

Hi, I'm a PC ... and I'm a Mac ...

Damn you, AWTM!

Damn you, RSM!

Damn you, Buckethead!

Now I have the macbook in my head and it won't get out!

Sgt Hook Goes to Washington ... If You Help

UPDATE:
The voting closes at NOON CST Jan 23!
PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE get your votes in, your family, your co-workers, your neighbors, the dude next to you at Starbucks, or the kid that annoyingly seems to have WiFi access EVERYWHERE you look.

Vote from home, from work, from your palm ... everywhere you can!!!

We need Hook at this conference - and your vote can get him there.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Milblogging Conference had a whole host of great panelists and attendees last year but there was one missing that I think really should have been there...

Sgt. Hook

This year, he's hoping to be there but he needs our help paying the way. So go over to the VA Mortgage Center Blog and vote for Sgt Hook in their Best Milblogger Contest to help him win that prize money!

You're Not A Superhero,
You're Not a Dragon
Show Yourself

I'm late to the party but that doesn't change that it is De-lurking Week (and I know you lurkers knew it too, so don't act all surprised now that I'm calling you out on it ... in fact I'm ashamed of you for not just volunteering yourselves earlier during your designated recognition week)

So have at it ... Show yourselves in all your blog reading glory

Blog Abandonment Continues

It's not like I've legitimately blogged here since oh ... before Thanksgiving, maybe? But, I thought I'd let you all know I'm running away again.

This West Coast girl, living in the bizarre oddity they call the East Coast, is headed back to the Midwest (That makes the fifth or sixth trip this year ...) I don't know if I should count my lucky stars that for a least a few times a year I'm that much closer to home, or if I should be afraid that the Midwest has some kind of hidden vortex it is trying to suck me into.

Either way ... off I go ... to Illin-nowa (yes yes, Illinois ... go watch Strongbad once in a while people). Too bad I'm not hitting Chicago, that might be fun.

Be back Tuesday

Side note: I was once quite excited about this trip ... it is the chance to see the good family again ... but note I said WAS. I could deal when mom said she was coming, but now Lil Bro is coming too ... ugh! Does anyone remember what happened the last time we spent a holiday together in IL? Yeah, he decided he wasn't going to drive me to the airport because I wouldn't piss of the event bankroller and plan his graduation reception. Welcome to the mature part of the holiday ...

Move over UPS - I Do Mornings Too (sometimes)

I think I did more damage to my kitchen by 8am today than most people do all week.

2 apple breads, 3 pies, 2 casseroles ... all in various stages of done-ness

Oh, and have I mentioned I'm not packed yet?

I'm leaving town this afternoon to see the good family and off to see the bad family on Saturday (ugh) for the trial that starts Monday.

Be back in a week. Be good (Santa's watching)

Off To See The Sunshine State

Tampa, here I come ... my flight leaves crack-ass-early in the morning.

So .... unless someone comes to check on the Princess Palace while I'm gone, you'll be lonely til Tuesday.

Here's To The Liars And The Cheaters And The Cold Mistreaters

A lot of people are talking lately about how they feel restricted in their blogging. Tammi's the one that got me thinking tonight, actually. Some people have family, others have friends, but we all have people reading our blogs that we just aren't sure we want inside our heads. I think that is the risk we all take when we decide to blog.

Fuck 'em. All of 'em. These are our blogs.

We put the blog out there to vent, to deal, to be validated. But we aren't always going to be validated. And what we think isn't always going to get a great response. Your mom doesn't want to read that you think her gazpacho sucks after she has been making it all these years ... but maybe she needs to. Maybe your friend needs to hear that you think she's being a giant bitch ... and maybe she needs to realize you're telling her for her own damn good. Maybe we could all use just a little bit more realism in our lives.

Treat people with respect, but fuck what they might think or who they might say something to.

If you don't want to keep reading about my opinions, you're welcome to stop. Don't get me wrong - If I can't say how I feel because of what someone might think, then maybe I need to reevaluate what I think. But if I am as comfortable saying to someone what I feel like blogging, it is fair game for the blog ... whether they like it or not. My only rules are protecting the feelings of those caught in the crossfire and covering my ass when it comes to work. Beyond that, I answer only to myself.

This is the written stream of consciousness from my mind, no one else's.

I used to be afraid to blog because of what someone might think. I wanted to be "in" and I didn't want to jeopardize that. I know that the gossip is going on, that alliances are there, and that your basic meddling is affecting lives all across the 'sphere. It kept me from being honest about what I thought. Of course I want to be liked, just like any other normal, regular person on the planet ... No one wants to be excluded, for any reason ... but, you know what? I'm not going to change who I am in order to be included.

If how I feel or what I think can destroy a "friendship," fuck 'em.

In some cases, that level of authenticity has left me on the outside of the circle. To be honest, it hurts. It hurts because I know I am an authentic, caring, fun individual. It hurts because I was genuine and not accepted. It is raw rejection without a sweet candy coating.

The friends that can survive disagreement and strife are the ones I want by my side, through the good and the bad.

There are people out there that think they are holding all the cards, that they have the world fooled with their innocent act, and that they are mighty enough to "bring people down" or have people ostracised from the group - mostly because they have been able to achieve just that - but no one holds all the cards, all the time.

And I think we've all heard the phrase 'what goes around comes around.'

These Boots Were Made For Walkin

I'm looking to take the blog mobile ... any techies out there have recommendations on wireless networking? I need a card and a router ...

What are your thoughts on important technology/features/brand???

When The Stars Go Blue

I just don't want to blog.

I'm in a bloggy funk.

I just don't want to read.

I'm a bloggy grump.

I May Not Need One, But I'm Off To Meet One

That's right, I may not need a man but I'm off to meet one anyway ... sort of.

I'll be gone all weekend celebrating my little cousin's second birthday and meeting his little brother for the first time.

Ya'll be good now, ya hear?

I Don't Think Guests Are Coming This Time

Ok, Kiddies ... I'm out ... again

Not for quite as long this time, but for another funeral ... ugh

Be good and send some happy thoughts to AWTM, she's having a shitty time of it today (hehe, sorry ... I couldn't help it ...)

I don't think you'll be graced with any guests this time. Sorry.

Empty Houses

I'm bored ... and RSM isn't home ...

I'm having way more fun blogging over at his place ... go check it out

Push the Button

Well, folks, the Princess is letting us sickies take over. I'm only maybe sick. But I figure as long as I have the chance I might want to get a few things ready around here. While I've got a few minutes before Army Wife gets here to house sit with me, let's see if we can't straighten up... ooh! Nail polish... that might come in handy...

Now, before she does get here, get the Godiva in the fridge and maybe try on set out the pink fluffy bathrobe.

I'm going to head on back to Cat's room... just to be sure things are alright, never know what her cat might get into in the closet... so if you hear AWTM come in, hit play on the DVD player... this should warn me distract her for a while and keep her from making up stuff about me.

In The Hands of Sickies

As I can tell, the sickie ones are going to be the primary watchers of the Cat House while I'm gone. Shoe has offered to check in on them from time to time, just to make sure no one dies on my couch or anything.

I've left plenty of DVDs (AWTM requested Avengers episodes, in case anyone was wondering), the vaporizer running, juices in the fridge, plenty of ice cream and popcicles in the freezer, chicken soup for their tired souls, and some tea to soothe their worries away.

So, I'm off to face Kansas ... and I leave you in the hands of the sickies ... hopefully everyone will be feeling better by the time I get back.

Its Open

I'll be leaving town again this week to handle some Grandma stuff and all those lovely legal battles going on. I typically don't blog around family ... simply because they are snoopy and have no business nosing around these parts.

That is going to leave the Cat House a little empty and unoccupied.

So, I'm tossing out an open call ... who wants to hold onto a set of keys and keep her feeling lived in while I'm gone?

**I've already been rejected once ... don't make me bust out the sad face ...

The Ranks Are Growing

Jazzy, one of my five loyal readers has finally decided to join the ranks of the 'sphere. He's set up an ecclectic little shop over at Dances With Squirrels, where you'll find a bit about world idiots, domestic oddities, and even a word or two about his life.

He's new to this funny little game we play, so be nice. Give him a read, a shove of encouragement, and maybe a little linky love (ahem, I said linky ... Harvey ... with an 'L' ...)

I think this one might actually stick with it ...

Audiences

For the last couple of days I have been emailing with someone I have come to discover is a nearly daily reader ... and I had no idea ...

My first reaction was to feel like a total schmuck, completely out of touch with who on earth the reading audience really is.

Until it hit me ... literally hit me ... (I was still in the throws of pain from having hit my knee on the desk when I realized) ... emailing and being friends with readers is cool, but writing without knowing my audience means I really am not writing for an audience. Unless, of course, I'm writing for an imagined audience ... which may or may not actually read me ... but I digress ...

My point was, perhaps not knowing my audience doesn't make me such a horrible ogre* after all, just someone blogging for what blogging is about.

*(no offense Ogre, I meant the other kind ... that bad kind ... not the you kind, or the Shrek kind ... )

Crawling Back In

It feels like I've been gone for-ever...

I managed to find myself coming down with something the day before my family rolled into town on the 17th and I have yet to get completely over it. Just my luck that stress-induced immuno-suppression would lead to a nasty cold on my own graduation.

NYC was a trip to say the least ...
I have never appreciated the pace of DC so much in my life!
Day 1 we were there I vowed to take advantage of the benefits of DC and never complain that the crowds or attitude of the people were the worst I'd seen in my life. I was amazed at how true stereotypes really can be.

I did, however, have a pretty good time. I went looking for the history and that was mostly what I found. The Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, the Brooklyn Bridge, Ground Zero, St. Paul's Chapel, St. Patricks Cathedral, the Empire State Building, the Flat Iron Building, Carnegie Hall, Rockefeller Center, Radio City Music Hall, South Street Seaport, Greenwich Village, Times Square, a Broadway Show, Central Park ... and of course ... FAO Schwarz for a teddy bear

I was supposed to be on a plane last night in order to be at a hearing for my grandmother's court case but medical advise kept me from flying. So I'm uneasy today as the hearing went on without me.

But I am gradually crawling back into my life that seems to have been put on hold for the last several weeks ... and trying to get used to 2 extra letters some job might attach to my name ...

I'd be MIA...

... But I'll really be in NYC ...

I had hoped to blog more while the family was in town but it just didn't happen with all the running and the inevitable drama.

I'll be back as soon ... but I hope to send a few folks over to look in on the place while I'm off continuing to meet family obligations.

Everyone have a safe & happy Memorial Day weekend!!

Girl Interrupted

I just flew back into D.C. .... and boy my arms are tired ...

The blogging has sucked lately since I've been out of town and it doesn't look like it will get any better any time soon...

Mom gets to town tomorrow
Dad/Bro/Aunt/Friend get to town Thurs
No idea when g-ma gets to town ... last I heard her plans to drive were foiled by the power steering in her car that couldn't be readily fixed.

I'll be with at least 2 family members every day for the rest of the entire month ... I may need someone to come break me out of the looney bin or jail by the time this is overwith. With my luck, probably both at some point ...

The worst part is that I'm really starting to miss being able to write about what's going through my head ... stupid responsibilities ...

I've been severely interrupted

On Life #4

I think #4 is about what Sheila's up to now ... but she's back and almost as good as new. Turns out that there were some major congenital defects that finally caught up with her. But no components were fried and no data was lost ... whew!

The trip to KS was difficult, but no time to handle it now ...

I'm off to play with the Navy tomorrow, and this weekend is the big milblogging conference all the cool kids will be at ...

Technical Difficulties

ALERT: A Swift Kick is currently experiencing major technical difficulties.

1. Sheila has managed to finally fry herself beyond my comprehension. I have had to admit defeat and she will go in for testing tomorrow. Once I find out what has gone wrong, I will likely be able to fix her. So ... we wait ...

2. I am flying out to KS again. I will find myself in a court room Tuesday morning with the person that hit & killed my grandmother. With all the talk of a plea bargain already, I find myself in need of a court room experience with this person. If for no other reason that to see for myself who he is and that he faced a court at least once. In the end, I think it will help the situation rest easier in my mind once it is over ... but the hardest part will be meeting this person after sleeping in my grandmother's house again without her and on the two month anniversary of the day that he killed her. It is still so fresh ...

MuNu-versary

Today marks my very first MuNu-versary.

When Blog-pop Eric invited me over (or rather gave into my pleading to move into a more legitimate format than blogsnot) I never thought I'd make it to one year. Now I can't imagine being anywhere but MuNu, and I'm proud to be part of all the wonderful bloggers that keep being brought on.

Thanks to all the readers that put me over the 21,000 mark this year ... I look forward to another great year laughing and ranting, and sharing all the cool things I think the world needs to know about.

Oh, and here's to another great year of finding other bloggers to drink with (both local and visiting).

KANPAI

20 More Days...

... til my Munu-versary...

and I'm 5076 hits short of my goal :-/

Those Little Words

I got the coolest e-mail yesterday - a stranger said thank you.

I am nothing but a little fish trying to do little things to make the world a better place one baby step at a time. I am not an influential player in the big game. I am put a spare cog in the machine, it would run without me. But I keep showing up at the game because I can't seem to forget this:

And the good will was returned...

Big Brawny Harvey

Being the good guy that he is, Harvey offered to send every single one of his female readers to my site (you know, to help me get towards my 25,000 goal and all...), on one condition:

I have to help him get his acting career off the ground.

So Ladies, Big Brawny Harvey in all his manly glory, just for you ... ENJOY!!
(link is safe for work)

Upcoming Anniversary

I don't ordinarly ask for presents, but this one would mean a lot to me...

I know, it's a pretty tall order for this blog ... needing an average 200 hits a day and all ... but what do you say? Spread the word and help me out?

Son #2

Some of you are familiar with The Blogless Wonder, others are not. But in any case, he is no longer known by such a malicious moniker...

So without further ado...

Allow me to introduce my second son, the one that insists I refer to him as my red-headed step-child, Two Foot Onion. You'll have to get him to tell you the story behind his name but he now blogs at The Wonder Formally Known As Blogless on blogspot.

So go give him a hello and make him feel welcome in our world

Enroute

Well, I'm off ... the time has come to head to Kansas to say my final goodbyes.

In the interest of keeping prying eyes off the blog, I don't imagine I'll be doing any posting until I get back. The last thing I need is to let the entire family know about this place all at once.

Those with keys, feel free to keep her warm for the next couple of days.

Where's Lil Bro?

Blog bro RSM asked me to do a little guest blogging for him while he was away for the weekend ... but it seems someone else got to his place first ...

I think I'll go see if I can't make myself at home anyway ;o)

UPDATE: Or not... I can't seem to get the log-in page to come up ...

DC Unite!

For those readers in the DC Metro area that haven't heard yet - blogmeet ... Saturday... email me for the details.

Agenda for the evening: Plans - Taking Over World

Kuntry Mouse...?

Looks like lil ol kuntry mouse has managed to get herself back up and running again. Which explains why her phone was busy all afternoon... But I'm seriously beginning to wonder how kuntry mouse she really is if she managed to MacGyver her computer back together... But then again, sometimes addiction makes you do things you never thought you'd do.

You know, it's almost too bad though. I was so looking forward to a Coup-a-la-Redneck... Maybe we can just stage a hostile take over instead...?

I'm just kidding (mostly) - it's good to have you back online, Lady.

AWTM Still Out

FYI - Army Wife Toddler Mom is still sans computer at her house...

I wonder if VW will help us hijack her blog. We could stage a giant coup, Redneck style...

And Then There Were More...

Via T1G, I just discovered that this is National De-lurking Week...

So, to all 6 of you out there reading but not saying anything...

AWTM is OUT

She may have found her keys, but Army Wife Toddler Mom's computer is just not having it today. In fact, both her desktop and laptop are completely out of commission at the moment.

She's doing her best to get back online ASAP but ya'll are going to have to learn to live without her for a little while, I'm afraid.

More info as it comes...

... The preceding has been a public service announcement was made possible by the following ...

Oooo... I'm Good at Something!

Being good at something is all well and good, but I have to admit... I'm a big fat schmuck for not paying attention sooner...

I was so caught up in my 'When - the - fuck - does - this - god - forsaken - evil - torturous - socially - mandated - holiday - season - bullshit - ever - end' rant, that I totally missed be awarded a Golden Thong. (Which, by the way, is totally flattering)

Over at Life Or Something Like It, I was named the blog "Best at Helping Jess Understand Women" for 2005.

I knew there was a reason I kept coming back to this place... *g*

On Approach

Although it shouldn't be a surprise to anyone why, I'm headed home early from this vacation of mine. In fact, I'll be headed back to DC right directly - or in about 12 hours or so...

Regular blogging shall resume shortly - Now with a toy surprise in every box!

All That 'In-the-Future' Kind of Stuff...

Those dudes over at the Ministry of Minor Perfidy are hosting this week's Carnival of the Future ... it's #16 this time, you know ...

And since I don't have anything even remotely positive to say after today's adventures, I highly recommend you read their stuff instead. It's far better reading. And probably more useful too...

Plus, Buckethead tells good stories, so go give him some traffic and tell him the Princess sent you. And if you really want him to like you, take some beer...

Off, Off, and Away!

7 Day Forcast for A Swift Kick & A Band-Aid:

Mom's house

That's right, it's family time again ... dammit ... I'm hopping myself on a plane this evening and landing my ass in LA. But at least it is a direct flight this time...

Blogging will be lighter that usual but I won't be disappearing entirely this time. I'll need ya'll in order to keep my sanity. Christmas with my family is just plain drama.

Last year I lost all the trust I had built up in my brother because of how badly he acted. This year, he's pissed at me for putting my foot down about the step-family. I'm sure that will blow up pretty hardcore in the next couple of days. But I'm still waiting to see who will be the big winner of this year's Christmas Douche Award for greatest betrayal. Anyone want to place their bets?

On Irony

Some days, the very thing that I love about blogging is the one thing I hate. What brings a smile to my face and a little boost to my ego most of the time, on a different day, can leave me slightly resentful with a dash of bitter taste in my mouth.

People read me. I have regular readers. My site meter continues to climb.

I have no idea who most of these people are. I have no idea why they come here to read about my battles through grad school and the drama of being mid-20's. The majority of readers I will never know or meet and some of them I already do.

People think I'm interesting. I contribute something to someone else's life. Maybe I make them smile too.

I come here to share my happiness and hope it spreads, to be whimsical in ways my real life cannot afford, to connect with others in the world that I may never otherwise know. I write here to spend a few moments wallowing in my disappointments before I put them away, to spew my pain before it breaks me under its weight, to vent my anger before it eats me alive.

But, dammit, people read me ... and I cannot find peace at their expense ...

On Lurking

As promised when I started as an intern, I finally coughed up the URL to my blog. The other intern and my boss now have a free pass to read anything and everyting I have ever written about them or while working with them.

Everybody stop and wave to the boss... *beauty queen wave*

Tomorrow is my last day so I figure, what the hell... what's the worst that could happen? At least they didn't stalk me to find it ...

Dude, Remember That One Time...?

I found this nifty little idea over at Tammi's Place, who found it at Sgt Hook's Place, who found it at Acidman's Place, etc...

Please post a comment with a completely fictional memory of you and me. It can be anything you want– good or bad, silly or stupid, believable or not – but it has to be fake. (I expect you to be really creative here too!)

When you’re finished, post this paragraph on your blog and be surprised (or mortified) about what people don’t actually remember about you.

Wheels Down

Finally, I've made it back to DC in one piece. Actually, to tell you the truth, I made it back last night. So why am I just now getting around to blogging?

Well...

I was enjoying the fact that the place is clean. I can lay on the couch, read a magazine work on a paper, and light a candle without fear I might set half my house on fire. And I think ArmyWife swept out the garage while she was here too...

The only problem is, I think she cleaned too well. Some of my things seem to have gone into hiding...

I mean, I know ArmyWife and I can probably wear a lot of the same clothes but some of my favorite under-thingies... ? Odd things to borrow. And speaking of which, either she's found a new and interesting place to hide my stash of fun-time toys or she and I are much better friends than I had previously thought...

I see that RSM didn't quite learn the trick to my ghetto fancy-shmancy DVD player either since his *ahem* evening 'entertainment' is still lodged in the tray. The player feisty like that... needs a little stroking of her own before she hands over the goods. I'll have to return this DVD to him... one of these days...

I can't thank these two enough for watching the house while I was away. Everything is still in one piece, its clean, and there are even holiday decorations up. These guys are too good to me. A mighty nice return, much nicer than I deserve for asking such busy people to keep house for such a long time. I simply must have them over for dinner.

Now, I still have to figure out that whole drag queen impersonation on my answering machine though... the voice is just so strangely familiar... but I can't quite place it...yet...

Visitors

(guest blogger)
Such a good day. Zonker visited and we were able to talk for many hours. We even enticed Eric to the phone and into the conversation at one point. We certainly couldn't have talked with him in person. I bet he smells pretty bad today. It's amazing how the world of seeking online approval by strangers (a.k.a. "blogging") has led to real people who are smart, interesting and caring. Zonker, get out of the city. You are far too much of a gentleman to have to endure such louts.

Now I am waiting for the next return phone call from the one for whom I set aside this night. Voicemail tag is no fun. Reading, however, is.

Of all the things that Zonker noted about my home, I think it was the library that did it for him. Then I realized, I have disarray. Philosophy and drama are mixed up together on the same shelf. I really need a good librarian to come in here and whip this place (and me) into shape. I think I know JUST the person...

I'm Going...

I missed blogging yesterday because I was trying to tie up all my loose ends and make sure I got myself all packed. You guessed it. As LL Cool J once said...

I'm going back to Cali, Cali, Cali
I'm going back to Cali...

The rest of this week in San Diego, next week on the north side of LA. :o) (I don't how I'd survive without frequent flyer miles... )

Anyone want to guest blog while I'm away? Huh? Huh? I see you thinking about it...

UPDATE: Anyone that wants a postcard or has been craving something Cali, e-mail with your address and the item your little heart desires.

Hasta

September was a pretty rough month in my kingdom and this week was no walk in the park... in fact, I'm a little sick and tired of the random 3 minute crying spells... and if I wanted to deal with this crap I would, but clearly I don't - so stay buried deep down in the pits of I-don't-care-land where I left you!

Sorry, off topic there for a moment...

What does all the bullshit in my life mean to you, loyal subjects? It means you're going to have to fend for yourselves for the weekend. In the morning I'm going out of town... hopefully to have some fun and clear my head... and my regular guest blogger is unavailable.

You'll be unsupervised and unentertained for an entire three days. Try not to trash the place while no one's around, ok?

I'll be back Sunday to tuck you all in.

Computer Crisis

Sheila (the computer) has been giving me fits when I start her up for a few weeks now.

When I turn her on, I get a black screen that says windows could not start normally. WTF is this crap about?

I used to be able to select 'use last known configuration' but even that doesn't work anymore.

I'm logged on to the computer in safe mode!!!

Poor, poor Sheila... can anyone help me fix her before she dies completely?

Please email me with any suggestions you may have... PLEASE!!

Instant Rich Bitch

The first time I took this it said I wasn't worth jack... a big ol' $0.00 to be exact... but I went to Eric's and saw what kind of cash I come from and tried again...

Overnight, I'm worth a fortune!

The bums lookin for a sugar momma should be coming out of the woodwork any time now... maybe I'll go to Burger King ads in a skimpy bathing suit and get engaged to someone named Prince Cat too...

We're On a Break

Don't worry if you don't see me around as regularly as you usually do... the blog and I have not broken up, we're just on a break.

Ok ok... I admit it... I'm having an affair!

Or at least I will be ...

My internship starts in a few hours with an official orientation at the main department building downtown. From now on my days will be spent working for the man, and for free no less...

I will still be sharing lots of stories (hopefully more than usual), I'll just be slamming them down Bou-style ... several at once for those that are unfamiliar.

See you again soon!

2 Years Old

That's right, he's 2 years old today....

Usually that would mean he has magical powers of dissapearance and his favorite word is no ... I think this guy only managed one of the two, and his favorite word isn't no. Instead he's one of the kindest, most thoughtfully entertaining bloggers I can think of.

So head on over to Straight White Guy and help Eric celebrate the anniversary of his fame, or infamy ... depending on which stories you have to tell ...

Non-Blogging Stupidity

There is a certain blog I read that continues to annoy and nag at me. Why do I still read it? Because it isn't the blogger than annoys me. It is the commenters that piss me off. Again, you're asking why...

Simply put - These commenters don't understand the concept of blogging, the purpose of individual communication, and the appropriate use of public access forums.

The comments hardly ever have anything to do with the post that was made. They are generally from the blogger's parents making random statements or asking unrelated questions. Every time I see it I scream at the computer - "It's called e-mail! Look into it!" The rest of the readers don't care to hear about your weekend plans, what your wife got you for your birthday, or why you took the day off. I know damn well that you have your son's e-mail and his phone number. So how about you keep your business in those venues instead and I won't come up there and kick you in the head, ok?

It's a simple concept here people...
Stay on topic or stay off the blog!

whew ... I feel better now ... how about you?

Greedy?

Before MuNu took an unscheduled vacation, a friend pointed out how tacky my donation button might seem to some of my readers. I didn't understand. He pointed out my two trips to San Diego earlier this year, my recent trip to LA, and the most recent trip to Mississippi as examples of his point - how dare I ask my readers for money to do even more traveling?

Well... maybe he's got a point. I guess it could be a bit in poor taste given all those other travels.

My only defense was the fact that when I go to see family, family pays...that made LA and Mississippi on their dime. My trip to San Diego in June was my birthday present.

When it is for me and for my fun, the bill comes to my door just like it does to anyone else's. It isn't like me to ask for anything from others and I'm still not sure what possessed me to do it. But it is like anything else on this blog, if it doesn't strike you the right way, read the next post instead - maybe it will be more up your alley.

Meet the Cat

Everytime I turn around it seems that bloggers are talking about meeting one another or going on trips where they see each other again. Quite frankly, I'm jealous of all the fun they are having! But I must be selective about my travels - afterall, I am just a lowly, unfunded grad student. This is where you come in, dear readers. Yes, I'm going to swallow my pride and beg for donations. I don't want to make money off any of you lovely people, I just need a little help to join in the fun and help spread the joy.

So let's review:

Blogathon 2005

Today is Blogathon 2005 to raise money for charity. Each blogger has chosen which charity they would like their donations to go to and The Bisch has chosen Any Soldier Inc.

Please support our troops by visiting The Bisch and sponsoring him TODAY!

Off Your Duff

So far no one has expressed an interest in a DC/NoVA blogmeet...

Prove me wrong people... speak up!

Anal Traffic

R. U. Serious over at Scared Bunny/Damned If I Know has a reader that says he shouldn't mention anal sex so much or he'll be "known as the anal sex guy on the Internet." Whaa? With all the porn out there? I don't think so... Silly reader!

However, I do agree with him on this...

The more I use the phrase anal sex, the more people forward the link and post comments. Plus, I show up on more interesting Google searches that way.

What I don't agree with is this...

But I was also reminded that if I hope to attract women that I need to not mention it so much.

But really...whether I agree with him or not...I'll read anyone that has dated more psychos and had more bad relationships than I have AND is willing to publically talk about it...

Mini-Meet

I'm tossing around ideas for a local NoVA/DC Metro blogger get together...a bit of a mini-meet if you will... I had in mind the weekend of 8/19 or 8/26 but just what I will organize depends on the number of people that want to come.

If you're interested in showing up, leave a comment or use the Gmail button on the left.

If you know someone who might be interested, send them my direction and let them know I'd love to hear from them.

If you're from out of town but want to come meet those of us crazy enough to live in the nation's capitol wake, you're more than welcome to join us as well.

Now get to it...before you miss your chance to meet Princess Cat at her very first blogmeet...

Discovered

I have kept this blog secret from my family since a previous one caused so much drama between us at the holidays but it appears Lil Bro has found me out.

Going through my stats I found what I am pretty sure is Mom's IP visiting my site while she and I were both in Jackson and Lil Bro was supposed to be watching the cat.

This could get ugly again but I'm not going anywhere.
I like being a Munuvian so he'll just have to deal...

Headin' South

That's right - I'm headed to Mississippi to see what kind of trouble I can get into. Actually, it's family reunion time and despite not being from the South at all, we're all converging to take over Jackson for the weekend.
G-ma says it's going to be a dry reunion...hahaha....has she met us before? Does she not remember what the graduations and weddings have brought? Maybe she's just forgetful or perhaps it's wishful thinking.... but the cousins and I have other ideas...

For you readers, in exchange for your patience and faithfulness, I give you my blog dad, Eric. The SWG himself has offered to blog sit while I'm away so I will now leave you in his ever capable and entertaining hands.

...keys to the blog and a stocked liquor cabinet... wonder if he remembers to put pants on by the time I get back... maybe I should call first...

No Pressure

The guys over at The Llama Butchers have bestowed upon me a great honor... using their great powers of influence for evil they have suggested their readers become aquainted with this blog...

And what they say is true, I am a new Mu-Nu resident...and I am fond of doing a little arse-kicking from time to time... so I'll try not to let them down...

But, my running amok with stories of sex and dead people (but not sex with dead people...EW...) shall have to wait just a few days until I get back. Yes, I'm leaving again!

Have no worry though, I've got a great surprise for you all coming up later today.

Hermaphroditic Blog?

Apparently I'm #3 for a google search on "cat with big balls"...Interesting...I'm pretty sure I'm a chick...

But maybe my blog is a hermaphrodite and I didn't know?
Now that'd be a little embarassing... after all this time...

Hiatus

I apologize for the recent lack of updates...
A non-medical but very complicated emergency situaton has kept me away. I will hopefully be back soon.

That's Blogging?

"Is that what people do with their blogs?" mom asked me this morning. I just laughed...

Before running errands this afternoon I sat giggling at a few of my favorite blogs but their content made mom turn her head sideways rather quizzically. People writing about dreams, classmates, and neighbors just didn't quite appeal to her. Milbloggers don't hold her attention and geeky talk is just over her head. She doesn't understand what a blogmeet is, she's concerned a fellow blogger may kill me (if I meet him/her in real life), and she doesn't understand why people would take the time to write all of this stuff down...

Because we like to, dear mother...because we want to share our thoughts or information, because we saw something super cool, because we want to promote tourism in our neck of the woods, or maybe because we can be free on the internet from the confinement life sometimes offers...

but most of all, it's still because we like to...

But, unconvinced of the satisfaction a blog can bring, she still thinks it's because we have too much time on our hands...

Quotes

I'm thinking about changing the quotes on the sidebar to things people have to say about me ... anyone have anything they'd like to say?

Chatting

How come more bloggers don't chat with each other on AIM/MSN/etc?

Maybe they just don't have that kind of time...
Or maybe it would sort of ruin the point of blogging...

Who knows.

It'd be nifty though...

3 Years

Today is the 3rd anniversary of the day I opened myself to the public eye and began writing what I then called an online journal. I didn't even know what a blog was. I had a geocities website that a few people visited now and then but I was writing for me, to keep me sane. I already had a lot on my plate but suddenly I was served seconds...

On my 22nd birthday, at a sushi restaurant with my brother and father, in the middle of one of the same blow out sibling rivalry fights I grew up with, my brother stormed out and pouted in the car. At that moment my dad told me my mom had been diagnosed with breast cancer.* A month later, I wrote my first entry that you see below because I felt I had no where else to turn.

07.05.02 21:30 PST

Music: Default – “Sick and Tired”
Mood: There isn’t a word for this emotion

Do you ever have one of those moments where all you want to do is throw up? Welcome to my evening.
Talking to mom was strange. Its like nothing is happening to her, nothing is wrong; she is just going about her normal life. For all the bonding she wants to do she sure has a funny way of showing it. I know she just wants to protect us and that she worries but it only makes it harder to deal with this situation when she acts like it doesn’t exist. Chemo isn’t like getting your nails done or your hair cut. It’s a big fucking deal. It isn’t just another appointment in your life but she talks as if it were a trip to K-mart on her lunch break. I just want to scream at her, “Be real for a minute, Mom! Don’t lie to protect me and don’t hide your fear from yourself.” Of all the things I’m angry about I think I’m most angry about how betrayed I feel in this. This doesn’t happen to my family and if it does it certainly doesn’t happen like this. Sure, I have my issues when it comes to dealing with stress but don’t fucking lie to me. I’d rather see the real situation than some sugar-coated world that will only come crashing down someday. I just feel even more pushed away when she pretends. I’m a big girl and I deserve the chance to deal with hardship. How else will I know how in the future? I’d rather be cheering her up, making her laugh about her pain, giving her a hug when she cries, telling her it will all be ok – this denial is killing me. I know she is hurting and I know she is scared. I have seen the pain and I have seen the tears. But apparently her strength comes from denying those emotions, in front of other people at least. I have resigned to be non-confrontational and keep my pain from her but it only drives me farther from the person who is supposed to need me more than ever right now. My support is false, merely a presence that comforts her, and a sham of a bond that shall break with the gentlest tug – but as she wishes….

I remember that night like it was yesterday. I wish blogging had started differently but regardless of why, I'm glad that I did. Even still I get discouraged and disheartened though. So thank you to those of you who have helped keep me going all this time...Blue, Wulfy, Gecko, Fern, LW, Creav, Dom, Casper, Cowboy, Ares, Eric...even though some of you aren't really around anymore, I owe you more than you'll ever know.

*Mom is now in full remission and healthier than she's been in decades.

Comments

Are any other Munuvians having a problem with their comments? Some of mine aren't emailing to me for some reason...

Little Buggers!

A New Sister

Last night, much to my surprise, I got a call from blog-daddy, Eric...In fact, I was so stunned by the unexpected encounter I could hardly speak... but he was calling with great news...

The family has grown and I have a new blog-sister! Go visit her blog, Chou Chope and be nice or you'll be answering to me!

I've learned what it's like to be the baby with Christina as my big blog-sis but now I get to learn what it's like to be the dreaded middle child... I wonder if Eric can keep up with our demands for his attention...

Wireless Network

'Sphere...I need your help...

I am a wireless networking newbie but the person tasked with making the new house network function...because I know the most about computers. I've everything working and did all of the set up stuff that the router said to do...but it won't stay connected.

There is a wireless network next door that the computers here are picking up, even though the signal is weak. I can't figure out why when you tell the computer to connect to our signal it will for a minute or so and then drop over to the much weaker signal and remain connected there until you tell it otherwise.

Any ideas, suggestions? HELP!

Unheard Of

Acidman graciously referred to my site this morning (thus sending much more than my usual traffic my way) as he suggested it remain unheard of...He apparently didn't take kindly to my story of hefting around a dead woman.

In response I have to say *insert childish face with tongue sticking out*

I may or may not remain unheard of...and I will get my feelings hurt over poor traffic...but I'm still going to write about dead people... it was the coolest thing I think I've ever done.

Though the story may have made us sound like hooligans, we were as respectful of the dead as we could be and were grateful they had given us the opportunity to learn something so unique at such a young age. We made a lot of jokes and it definitely twisted our sense of humor but we did our best not to take it too far.

I am not a doctor today and I never applied to med school. Without that course, I never would have seen what my insides look like. And let me tell you...you're missing out if you don't know...

Oh, and I discovered something else from that course...I rock with probing tools...

2000th Hit

Dare I reward #2000?

I know I'm still a small fry but hey, its still a milestone...

UPDATE:
It's getting closer! Have you thought about what you want your prize to be?

UPDATE 2:
Looks as though I am going to have to disappoint Skippy Stalin this time...the winner of the 2000th hit was Countertop of The Countertop Chronicles. Let's see what he asks for...

Google Meme

1. What's the first word that comes to mind when you think of me?
2. Go to Google Images and search for that word.
3. Comment on this post with any one of the pictures on the first page of results (but don't tell me the word).
4. Put this in your own blog so that I can do the same.

Stolen from Gecko's Rantings

Doggie Blogging?

This may or may not be a reality this weekend...

Ok, I don't really care about doggie blogging but I am off to unpack someone else's moving van and then my weekend will be spent dog sitting. Unfortunately, I'm not sure the status of the internet at the house...EEK!

If I come back on Monday slightly insane, you'll know why...

New Look

While I love what Sadie did with the place, I'm a changer...I move furniture, I change clothes often, I reorganize for the sake of a new look...

I needed options to choose from! I'm not finished with this design but I figured I'd leave it up to see how it struck me.

So...what do you think?

UPDATE: I spent all morning trying to make this fit in 800 x 600 and it blew when I put it back in 1024 x 768 so I'm still messing with it. Anyone else have problems viewing? Suggestions?

Not Dead

I swear I'm not dead...the past couple of days have been a nightmare in the making so blogging went by the wayside. I'll be back later today to blog my little heart out...there are just too many things to write about and I don't know where to start.

Be back soon, loyal subject...soon...

Blog-Sitter

I am once again being called away from my comfy little corner of the world and must leave you, dear readers. As I alluded to earlier this week, I am off to destroy enjoy St. Louis courtesy of my parents in order to celebrate the little brother's graduation from college. I don't anticipate being able sober enough to blog from my remote location but I will try to call home to say hi if I can...

Though, fear not... my absence is only temporary and I shall leave you in the capable hands of Eric, the one and only Straight White Guy, who has so graciously accepted my request plea for a blog-sitter.

I've never trusted the place to a blog-sitter before so let’s hope he does well with the keys.... for your sake... ain't nothin he can break too badly in this place... I can't afford all that fancy stuff (a coordinated house just gets in the way of my drinking and shopping budgets!)

So big, bad, blog daddy...the place is all yours...
I'll see ya'll some time next week...

Firefox

Motivated by Sadie's ever loudening screams about IE, I broke down went to get Firefox.

Download... Install...install...intall... Check out my blog...

HOLY CRAP! It looks waaaay different. Who knew? (Don't answer that...)

So now I'm looking at my blog going...uh...this isn't exactly how I intended it to look... uh... does this mean I have to redesign it? um... why do I think this is going to make sadie mad? errr.... help?

So if you start noticing a bunch of changes again...you've been warned.

Change Is In Order

So I've been told I should post more entries... it got me to thinking, why don't I post more often? It's a silly answer really...I've been blogging scared.

Too many times I have looked at my blog afraid to write because of what someone I know might think...or for fear that I may reveal just a little too much about myself that I can never cover over again...or out of insecurity that no one will want to read my ramblings...

Well no more. I'm a talker and I'm a blogger, my blog should reflect that I can't shut up (ever...even when I probably should). I have had a rather unique path in life that has snaked through many different avenues and it's interesting dammit! If you don't think so, you're either hella cool and I should hang out with you more often or you're just a stick in the mud with no sense of how fun non-conformity can be.

Some people have told me that I project a negative image online and that I am misrepresenting myself that way. Well...I like to bitch, I like to rant, and I am ok with people knowing about it. I'm not ashamed of my negative side cuz if you want me to believe that you're happy all the time, I'll believe you're a liar instead. I don't always talk about the good times as much as I should but I live them, I bathe in the pleasure they bring, and I treasure them close to my heart. They are for me, not for you. So accept that my blog is for bitching and quit telling me it makes me look like a bitter person...get to know me and you'll see more than the choppy seas you found on first glance.

One more thing, music is one of my many voices. I am touched, inspired, and connected to music. Those lyrics will always be an expression of my mood, my experiences, and my life...if you think that's cheesy, bring crackers...things will go down better while you're reading my blog.

Now...all that being said...no more scaredy cat...

My blog, my life, my rules. Deal with it or stop reading.

Slow Day

I'm not sure what is going on with the site today but its being all goofy. So just bear with it and it will work its kinks out I suppose. If not, I guess we'll figure it out then...

*shrug*

Back to my procrastination...

Upgrading

Looks like Miss Sadie is back at designing after her battle with law school finals. I can't wait to see what kind of fantastic aesthetic upgrades she has in mind.

So until she's done, mind the sign about dust and watch your head...

Buried

Blogging shall suck this weekend...just too much on my plate and unfortunately that means blogging has got to go for the time being.

Don't let anything too cool happen in the world while I'm out of touch.

Dot Com

I'm thinking of going to the land of the dot com and have no idea where to start.

While I was out this weekend a guy heard me talking about my blog and asked for the address....the mu.nu was confusing to him. I love munu and all my munu neighbors - I just want people in the real world to be able to find this place (and all of you by association...YAY blogrolls!)

So - anyone want to point me in a helpful direction?