Chat & Greetings 2005

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Lina - May 29, 2005 1:17 pm (#2601 of 2981)

Mandy, thank you for your concern, but CatherineHermiona is O.K. Unfortunately, we have got used to all those bruises on her. Actually she has improved lately. When she was in kindergarten, she used to come home with the bruises, we would ask her how it happened and she would say "I don't know." I was afraid that the social workers would come to accuse me of abusing my children. Now at least she knows how she got the bruises. And the thing that bothers her most about them is that she doesn't look good so she is more cautious lately, too. But as we concluded, she is brave, if we add a little clumsiness, the bruises are something that can't be avoided.

I saw an advertisement about 4D ultrasound recently, and I was wondering what should it mean. Thank you Denise for explaining. I expected it would have some connection to your avatars.

We are home and we are hoping to spend the next weekend the same way.

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Catherine - May 29, 2005 1:52 pm (#2602 of 2981)

I changed my avatar temporarily. I found a soap box for all of the grumps. Hope you like it! –GryffEndora

Looks sturdy enough for this old grump. Thanks, GryffEndora. :: tests out the new platform ::

Hmm..it is time to implement my evil plans? Bwahahaha! First on my list is....

...beep... beep...buh buh ...beep... beep...   We regret that this program has been interrupted due to an overload of rotten tomatoes....,

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Puck - May 29, 2005 4:25 pm (#2603 of 2981)

Denise, mentioned that cool ultra sound pic to my hubby, but he didn't go for it once learning he'd have to pay for it. Oh well. Before we started telling baby's gender JIm told people that "It's the same as one of the kids we already have."

My wardrobe pet peeve? Seeing belly bottons in church! My of my cousins friends actually showed up in a hot pink belly shirt to my aunt's wake last fall. I was appalled! How completely disrespectful!

My boy had his shots last week as well. I didn't even tell him he had a doctors appointment until we pulled into the parking lot. He was so good. He got teary, but held still and tried to be brave. I sat there teliing him he could have a popcicle the moment we got home.

I had a lovely day yesterday. We had a girls day to celebrate a friend's upcoming wedding. Went to the spa for some pampering, then out to dinner. I highly recommend a maternity massage for all you pregnant women out there.

Lori, glad my stories are helping. I know it's actually harder to be part of the family than the one going through it at times. I had always taken my condition in stride, but was a bit of a mess dealing with Parker having it also. Not looking forward to going through all that again with number three, but it looks like we will be.

Off to get the kids to bed!

Kathy

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Ponine - May 29, 2005 6:07 pm (#2604 of 2981)

Puck said: My of my cousins friends actually showed up in a hot pink belly shirt to my aunt's wake last fall. I was appaulled! How completely disrespectful!

- Puck - That is AWFUL! I am not too familiar with American customs around wakes and funerals and such, but here, hot pink would be a definite no no, and belly baring at that.... I am sorry, but that to me, is tacky and tactless...

And Mike - yes, that is indeed the institution I am talking about. I find it interesting to see that you say the Natives were not against the logo when you went there - when did you go?? When I was there, the vast majority of the Indian population, as well as the individual tribes and reservations all protested it... not that it matters, when money and sports is involved...

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fleur-de-lys - May 29, 2005 7:16 pm (#2605 of 2981)

Kathy, what a appalling story of your cousin. I would be shocked to see that too. But I'll be thinking of you and praying for you and your family as you look to dealing with a child with a heart problem. Its hard enough for me to be dealing with my mom going through it. I can't even imagine having a child go through it. It takes a very special parent to go through something like that. And an extroardinary parent to go through it twice. You are truly amazing!

Gryffendora, your avatar is perfect. I love it! Thanks for the chuckle. Except that, every time I laugh at something on here, I have to explain it to the hubby, how annoying. He keeps threaten to go on here to read and post. But I keep telling him he can't cause he hasn't read all the books yet. Sometimes I wish he would so I wouldn't have to go over everything I find amusing. MEN!

I meant to mention earlier. Someone was asking about hats and wondered about the urge to wear them, especially inside. They are great at covering up a bad hair day, especially when you have short hair, as I used to do. I have frequent bad hair days and would often wear a hat to cover it up when I had short hair. Not so many bad hair days now that its longer.

Now I have a question for the forum. Hopefully its not too political or personal, so it won't get yanked. But if it does, I understand. I am an organ donor and am wondering how others feel about the subject. I, personally, can't understand not being one. I'm hoping someone out there can help me better understand those who chose not to be. I'm very interested to hear what you all think.

Today has been better with more time for relaxation and family. Even if my NASCAR Fancar team isn't doing well right now. Go Tony!!!!!! Hope you all have a wonderful Memorial Day, even if you're not in the US. And Happy Mother's Day (sorry if its late) to Elanor and any others celebrating the day!

Luv Till Niagara Falls, Lori

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I Am Used Vlad - May 29, 2005 7:40 pm (#2606 of 2981)

I am being completely serious here. I know some people who refuse to be organ donors because they're afraid they will be murdered if they're a match with someone rich and powerful who is in need of a transplant. I have no such fear, and I am an organ donor.

On the hat issue, I pretty much completely agree with Loopy.

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Denise P. - May 29, 2005 7:41 pm (#2607 of 2981)

The reasons that I have most often heard for not being on organ donor, without going into specifics, is due religious reasons. There are also those who can't bear the thought of cutting up a loved one and harvesting organs like crops planted in the field. It is a very personal choice to make and it comes right on top of losing a loved one. There are also those who are not as well informed on the benefits of organ donation and don't see the tremendous need for it. Oh yeah, the fear factor is there too...not helped by urban legends like waking up in a bathtub full of ice after your kidneys are stolen.

I, personally, am all for organ donation and for those women who chose to not bank cord blood personally, cord blood donation. I just spent nearly a week tracking down someplace that would accept the cord blood from Baby P. for research donation since I am not banking it and I can't donate it for public use due to another child with a life threatening illness (it can't be used). I support regular blood, platelet or plasma donation too.

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Eponine - May 29, 2005 7:49 pm (#2608 of 2981)

My dad was an organ donor, and because of him there were several people who got to live.

I'm all for blood donation, but it's extremely difficult for me to give because I apparently have small veins. You wouldn't know it from looking at my arms, though. They're extremely visible at the bendy part.

I don't ever wear hats, but my husband does when he's having a bad hair day. He does take them off for the national anthem and the pledge. He wore his hat the day he went to get his license changed to our new address, and they made him take it off for the picture. It's a funny picture.

I hope everyone's having a great day!

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Julia. - May 29, 2005 8:41 pm (#2609 of 2981)

I'm all for organ donation. Judiasm has conflicting views on the issue. It says that you should be buried whole, but it also says that if you have a chance to save a life you should take it. If you can save several lives, than the better, so I'm all for it. Blood donation is good too, but the last time I went to give they didn't let me do it, something about not enough iron in my blood.

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Cornelia - May 30, 2005 3:25 am (#2610 of 2981)

Vlad - that sounds as if the organ donors dates are somewhere listed/registered, is that so in the US/Canada?

In Germany you get a little piece of paper which declares if you are or not. You should, of course, carry it with you because as far as I know organ donors are not registered.

I have heard, I´m not 100% sure, in Austria you are automatically donor, you have to declare specially that you are not. (Edit: I did a search, it is indeed like that, there is a special register where all non-donors(?) are listed)

Hubby and I are organ donors. Our parents aren´t, as far as I know. I think there is not enough information about it in the media, most people don´t know how important it is and how long the waiting lists are to get a new organ. And they have to inform themselfes, all the doctors I know didn´t tell me about that possibility, and people are lazy...

Lori - I hope everything will go well for your mom tomorrow!!

Julia - May I ask why you did swing the chicken? And I hope you find a nice job soon!

Hope you all have a nice (Memorial-) Day!

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Lina - May 30, 2005 4:43 am (#2611 of 2981)

In my country, the things are quite simple, you have to sign the paper if you don't want to donate the organs. Anyway, when it comes to the crucial moment, the doctors usually ask the family if they want to do it because they assume that the people are not well informed. Therefore, I just make sure that everybody who might be in charge, if such a moment comes, know that I am willing to donate, although I'm not sure that I take a good care of the organs that could be donated. My husband's blood type is 0 - and he feels that it is his obligation to be a blood donor.

There are some religions, though, that think that a person must come whole to the Creator and are not willing to give up an organ even if it is for their own health reason. My mother had a patient who had cancer on his vocal chords, and didn't want to have them removed. He didn't mind chemotherapy, though, because his religion wasn't saying anything about it. I need to mention this man because he was healed at the end and I must say that I admire him even though we don't share the religion. It is just not possible to feel bad about the people who think that they would betray their religion by donating organs.

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Catherine - May 30, 2005 5:35 am (#2612 of 2981)

Happy Memorial Day.

This discussion of cord blood donation and organ donation reminded me of an interesting book I read recently, My Sister's Keeper by Jodi Picoult. It's a fictional account of a child conceived as a genetic match for her terminally ill sister. It raises some interesting ethical issues and it's a good read. I suggested it for our Book Club, and I think they will enjoy it if they actually read the book.

I must say that I didn't realize that one can donate cord blood to research. Perhaps I just assumed that is what happened if one didn't specify one's preference to have it banked or donated to an individual. I know that when I was pregnant with Claire, my OB did research and we were always asked if we would donate an extra vial of blood to his program every time we had blood tests. I always did, but I knew from waiting room chats that some women resented being asked and did not contribute. It was their choice, of course, but it's not like the doc was asking for their right hand.

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Good Evans - May 30, 2005 5:45 am (#2613 of 2981)

There was a real news story recently about a family with a son who has a disease and the parents were having another child to try to have a match to help him. This got the ethical debate well and truly started about is it right - will the second child be loved, were they really wanted? I dont want to start such a debate here, but looking at Catherines post about a book it just reminded me of the news story from about a year ago.

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septentrion - May 30, 2005 6:36 am (#2614 of 2981)

I'm also for organs donation. Several years ago, I knew a girl who lost her mother at the age of 15 because her mother couldn't get a lung in time and I think this is unfair, it shouldn't have happened. So I have in my wallet a small paper indicating I'm a donator. Just in case. Yet all not people are ready to do this. My husband, although he is moved by the story of people who are saved by organ donation, can't bring himself to sign that small paper and was quite shocked to find out I was a donator. Humans can be complicated !

I'm on a training day today, as well as tomorrow. The trouble is I slept too little last night and I have a hard time to listen. Glad I could escape a few minutes to say hello !

Everyone have a good day !

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applepie - May 30, 2005 6:42 am (#2615 of 2981)

I used to be a regular blood donor. My blood type is 0- also and I have the Rh factor, so the Blood Center would call me every 8 weeks to come in. Literally on the day that I was eligible to donate, they would call me. My husband was upset that they weren't calling for him and wondered why his blood wasn't "good enough". I cannot donate any longer because of iron problems as well. However, I am an organ donor, and if I ever get these iron problems sorted out, I will start donating blood again too. I did have trouble donating because of small veins too. Not that they turn you away for that, but it does make for a painful process. Mine are also visible, but the ones that are visible are too superficial to take blood from. They go deeper and it was usually a painful digging process before getting the vein.

Congratulations to all with special events, new jobs, etc. Happy Mother's Day to all of you celebrating that as well. It is Memorial Day today and I am sitting at work (only 3 of us here today) while the sky is falling. It has been raining hard since yesterday evening, but it is very much needed.

I have been doing some online training over the weekend, so I was not able to post, but I will try to catch up today.

Lina, glad to hear your daughter is ok.

Fleur, I'm still keeping your Mom in my thoughts and prayers.

Julia, good luck with the job search.

Well, I'm off to check the threads. Hope you all have a wonderful day!

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Denise P. - May 30, 2005 7:06 am (#2616 of 2981)

Catherine, most cord blood banks are set up for private storage with perhaps 2 in the US that are set up for public donation...meaning you donate cord blood for someone else to use if the need arises (although you can use it yourself if the need arises and the blood has not been used already). I hunted a week, talked to the Red Cross, Bone Marrow Registry, 4 different banks and our oncologist about finding a place to accept our cord blood for research. I was told there was no program within the US. I stumbled across a Canadian stem cell researcher who linked me to a page that had a link to a company that DOES accept for research. If this cord blood was suitable to be used for the general public (which is can't because a sibling has leukemia) then I would be all over donating it for public use. Since that is not possible, I wanted some good to come from it rather than just discard it. In most cases like ours, the family is encouraged to keep the cord blood for the child with the disease but in our case, again, it can't be used even if it is a perfect match (long story but his oncologist said it is pointless to store for our use).

Sooo...long story short (too late!) if anyone who is pregnant and not going to store cord blood for your family's potential use, consider donating it. Most doctors will waive their collection fee if you are donating so there is no cost involved to the family.

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I Am Used Vlad - May 30, 2005 7:45 am (#2617 of 2981)

Cornelia, where I live, they ask if you want to be an organ donor when you're renewing your driver's license, and organ donor is printed under your picture if you say yes. I don't know if this is done everywhere in the US, or if it varies state by state.

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applepie - May 30, 2005 8:41 am (#2618 of 2981)

Oh, I could think of numerous better ways to spend this rainy day. Work is incredilby boring right now. The receptionist has had about 2 or 3 phone calls all morning and I have been catching up on reading all the posts. Something I needed to do, mind you...but I would much rather be at home, on the sofa, in my pajamas, reading a book!

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Puck - May 30, 2005 9:51 am (#2619 of 2981)

Good afternoon all!

I am happy to donate organs, and should do the blood thing as I'm type O. In my younger days I couldn't donate as I was under the weight limit, plus taking meds. I have found recently that I am able to do so now, but have been either pregnant or nursing most of the time for the last 6 years.

I would love to bank the cord blood, but heard it can be a bit expensive to do so. Really, if it's that great a thing they should just do it and not charge you for it! I was asked to give it during my first pregnancy, but because of my heart problems, etc..., it was questionable whether it would be accepted for donation.

Denise sorry to hear one of your little ones is sick. How are you all holding up with that? It must be overwhelming at times, especially with so many others to care for. Bless you for doing it, you brave woman!

Lori, thanks for the support. We are lining up the doctors and developing a treatment plan now, so all will go more smoothly this time.

Kathy

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Catherine - May 30, 2005 9:54 am (#2620 of 2981)

I was told there was no program within the US. I stumbled across a Canadian stem cell researcher who linked me to a page that had a link to a company that DOES accept for research—Denise

What one does learn on the Forum!

It seems amazing to me that there is no such program in the US, and that you would have to jump through such hoops to find a program. Thanks for the information, Denise.

So now we know what Denise really does in her spare time in addition to spinning straw into gold.

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Denise P. - May 30, 2005 10:44 am (#2621 of 2981)

Boy, don't I wish I could spin straw into gold!

Puck, Devin is doing very well. He is coming up on his second anniversary post transplant and in remission. Woo hoo! For the most part, we don't make any real adjustments for him or dealing with him since we have been doing this for 4 years now. He gets treated like any of the other kiddies, has chores, gets in trouble etc

Just an FYI about organ donation, even if you sign your drivers license, still make sure that your family is aware of your wishes. It may depend on the state but your family can refuse to donate your organs even if you sign it. It never hurts to let them know what you want and leave legal documentation stating that.

We spent the morning fishing. I actually managed to catch a bluegill. The kids caught bluegill, crappie (pronounced croppie) and pumpkinseed sunfish. There are bass where we fish but it is rare to snag one. It is all catch and release but they enjoy it.

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Lupin is Lupin. Natch. - May 30, 2005 11:06 am (#2622 of 2981)

The kids caught bluegill, crappie (pronounced croppie) and pumpkinseed sunfish.---Denise P.

Funny, my husband pronounces it crappie.

Denise and Catherine, there's a (very) little something coming in the mail for you both.

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CatherineHermiona - May 30, 2005 11:26 am (#2623 of 2981)

I am a fan of Britney and if there is anyone else, please, tell me.

Thanks to everyone's good wishes about my fell which happened last Saturday. But I would appreciate if you would talk to me directly and not over my mum.

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Catherine - May 30, 2005 11:33 am (#2624 of 2981)

The kids caught bluegill, crappie (pronounced croppie) and pumpkinseed sunfish.—Denise

I'm very hoppy about your catches and hoppy to get a little surprise in the mail.

Yay.

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Ticker - May 30, 2005 2:26 pm (#2625 of 2981)

A special thank you today to all those who have put their life at the service of my country, particularly those in the military.

I have been randomly popping in & out of this thread and my out times are becoming more pronounced, so I know I'm missing all sorts of great posts but I read back to Lori's (fleur) post wondering why people wouldn't become an organ donor (very good & intriguing input posted). I had wondered the same thing. Besides reasons dealing with the body & the afterlife, I hadn't run into anyone who was not for it. That is, until one of my teachers in nursing school explained her rationale. I don't remember it exactly but it went something like this:

Advances in medicine & medical treatment have often made our lives longer without making them better. Especially for those who don't believe dying is really the final adventure, why should we make extending our time here the priority, no matter the cost? Organ transplants, besides the financial aspect (which is very significant) do not always improve one's life. It is usually changing one set of very difficult health issues for another very difficult set. When an organ fails, it damages the rest of the body, though not always (but often) permanently. Organ transplantation is not a cure but a treatment.

I know this is a very controversial answer, but you did ask. After graduating, I went to work in a kidney specialist's office and worked daily with people who were seeking kidney (& sometimes pancreas) transplants & people who had had them. I can say with certainty that some people did very well & were able to live happy & productive lives after their transplants. Others struggled with the medications & complications severely. There are other ethical issues brought up as well, such as what if the person who recieves the organ trashes it through poor decisions & irresponsibility? What about age? Who gets to decide if one is suitable for transplantation? How should they be paid for? What if the transplant fails shortly after surgery? Who decides how the organs get distributed?

My own views on organ donation are mixed. I donate blood periodically (and have no issue with its use, nor issues with bone marrow) & I have helped people get an organ transplant. It's a complicated issue & until I resolve some things in my own mind & heart, I have elected not to be an organ donor. I'm sorry if I have offended anyone. That has not been my intention.

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Lina - May 30, 2005 2:28 pm (#2626 of 2981)

Happy Memorial day to all who celebrate!

Elanor, it seems that you are working hard on the paper! I hope you will be satisfied soon! Some enlightening charms your way!

Fleur, I hope you have some good news about your mother. My prayers are with you.

Finn, I wanted to say it before, but i got carried away. I'm so glad that you made a great music and that people liked it. I would like to hear it too.

applepie: Congratulations to all with special events, new jobs, etc. (...) Lina, glad to hear your daughter is ok.
There is more: we went to do the eye check today. Katarina started do wear glasses when she was 13 months old and she became nearsighted at the age of 10. I was afraid that she would develop high dioptry because my father had it. But her dioptry hasn't changed for two years and it makes me very happy. Mihaela started to wear glasses when she was 4 (actually she noticed that she needed them before we made the first eye check) and she had the operation (her eyes were "running" toward the nose, I don't know the right word) when she was 5, last autumn, and her eye results are much better now. So, I'm just as happy as I can be!

The weather here is total summer, but I like it.

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Ydnam96 - May 30, 2005 2:33 pm (#2627 of 2981)

Ticker, I do not think you have offended anyone. I believe that all of us here feel that this is a very personal decision, and a moral one, that each person needs to make for themselves. I applaud you for not only bravely stating your decision, but making an informed one at that. You have obviously done research about the issue.

I myself have elected to be an organ donor. It is a religious decision for me...if given the chance to help I should. Plus, my body will be dead anyway.

I did not know about cord blood donation or even that it could be harvested and kept for future use. Why is this a better option than just getting donated blood from a family member or another compatible person? I'm not very "sciency" but does it have to do with the stem cells and all that in the chord?

Happy Memorial Day to all. Especially all those who have served their countries.



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Lina - May 30, 2005 2:55 pm (#2628 of 2981)

Ticker, I really don't think that your opinion is offending and I find it interesting. When I was talking to the doctor about my melanoma, he told me that medicine can treat me and help me, but the most important thing in the process of my healing is my attitude. Sometimes I just wonder if I picked this doctor because his point of view is so similar to mine? I think that the attitude is very important for the quality of life no matter if it is long or short. But if just one of my organs can give one person a chance to do something good in his/her life, I think it is worth it. I know that not everybody is able to use this chance and that not everybody has a good attitude, but it is not something that can be measured and I don't feel invited to make this decision. Some things depend on luck or on some unknown plans, if you like that better. I really liked your post, Ticker, and I'm not trying to change your mind, just explaining my point of view. After all, like Mandy said, I don't care what happens with my dead body, I'd like people to have me in their memories, not in grave.

I hope I didn't offend anybody.

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Denise P. - May 30, 2005 3:18 pm (#2629 of 2981)

I did not know about cord blood donation or even that it could be harvested and kept for future use. Why is this a better option than just getting donated blood from a family member or another compatible person? I'm not very "sciency" but does it have to do with the stem cells and all that in the chord?

Cord blood cells are very different from regular blood cells or even bone marrow blood cells. I am not a scientist so I can't tell you specifics but I can tell you the following. In my immediate family, all of us are blood type O+. You would think being we all are the same blood type, that any of us would match in bone marrow for Devin. That is not the case. Of his 5 siblings and 2 parents, only 1 is a match. When looking at bone marrow for transplant, they look at a different set of markers, called HLA (no clue what it is). Ryan is a 6/6 match for Devin, the rest are 4/6 match, his parents are 3/6. That is not good enough for a bone marrow transplant, the 4/6. Cord blood stem cells are different though, you can transplant without being a 6/6 match. You can go as low as a 4/6 match with good results (meaning the person will engraft and usually survive). This is because umbilical cord blood contains blood stem cells that are even more primitive than the blood stem cells found in bone marrow.

Ticker, no offense taken. It is a big step to consider and not everyone comes to the same conclusion. That it is why it is important that your loved ones know your wishes.

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Catherine - May 30, 2005 3:56 pm (#2630 of 2981)
Edited May 30, 2005 4:41 pm

It is a big step to consider and not everyone comes to the same conclusion. That it is why it is important that your loved ones know your wishes. Denise

Agreed.

I have legal documents, specific letters to family, and I talk about what I would like. We did this as a part of "making our will" when our first-born came into the world, and now I realize that we should have done it as soon as we married.

Oh, well, better late than never, but better sooner than a problem.

One good thing is that I absolutely understand my parents' wishes, so that little "bother" aka "brother" can't disagree. It is a gift that they gave us both, and while it was uncomfortable to hear it, we both know, and in the end, we will be on the same page to do what is right.

SO....Memorial Day...am I alone in wanting home-made icecream? (Vanilla with home-made hot fudge sauce....mmmmm)

EDIT: Ryan is a 6/6 match for Devin, the rest are 4/6 match, his parents are 3/6.

How wonderful as sibs to beat such odds! The more I thought about it, the more amazing it seemed.

Ryan and Devin are special, indeed.

About odds, and maths...it takes me a minute, but when I realize it...yay.

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Denise P. - May 30, 2005 4:01 pm (#2631 of 2981)

Catherine, we have the mix made up to freeze after dinner. Yum, vanilla! I should have gotten some fresh strawberries to put on top though.

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Catherine - May 30, 2005 4:28 pm (#2632 of 2981)

Yum, vanilla! I should have gotten some fresh strawberries to put on top though.

Mmmm....

It's our tradition (usually, as we are with my parents) on national holidays to mix up and freeze our own ice-cream.

I missed it today, but good to know that Denise and Co. have it going on!

Mmm...so, for the 4th of July...I should get ready....

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Lupin is Lupin. Natch. - May 30, 2005 6:13 pm (#2633 of 2981)

It's our tradition (usually, as we are with my parents) on national holidays to mix up and freeze our own ice-cream.---Catherine

Hmmmmm.....I thought that was what Ben & Jerry's was for?

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Catherine - May 30, 2005 6:26 pm (#2634 of 2981)

Hmmmmm.....I thought that was what Ben & Jerry's was for?

For patriotic holidays? Think again...

Unless it's about "Chunky Monkey" or "New York Chocolate Chunk"........

Ben and Jerry's is all about being chunky.

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Lupin is Lupin. Natch. - May 30, 2005 6:35 pm (#2635 of 2981)

Unless it's about "Chunky Monkey" or "New York Chocolate Chunk"........---Catherine

I'm a 'Chocolate Fudge Brownie' girl myself.

For patriotic holidays? Think again...---Catherine

I have to say I've never heard of this tradition. Is this a southern thing? It sounds crazy enough to be.

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Denise P. - May 30, 2005 6:51 pm (#2636 of 2981)

For all that we actually live in the south, neither Mr. Denise nor I am *from* the south. Since we have been married, we always do up ice cream for holidays, birthdays or just because. We just like homemade ice cream.

I like Phish Food myself

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Catherine - May 30, 2005 6:58 pm (#2637 of 2981)

Baby P, keep them guessing--from here and beyond.

Mmmm....Phish food....mmm...

Oh, wait, are we still talking ice cream?

EDIT: I make a wonderful dark chocolate sauce, I do. Think about it...

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Julia. - May 30, 2005 7:17 pm (#2638 of 2981)

Cornelia, I was swinging chickens for a religious thing. The day before Yom Kipur we swing a live chicken over our heads for a few reasons. The first is a symbolic transfer of our sins to the chicken so that we start the year sin-free. The second is we do it to symbolize the sacrafices we used to make in the days of the Temple.

Hmmm, we don't make homemade ice cream in my family. We're quite content to go out and buy Ben and Jery's (I'm a big fan of Half Baked), My dad put together the new grill today but we didn't use it. Good thing too, as I had Subway with a friend after seeing Star Wars for the second time.

Catherine, is that Snidely Whiplash in your avatar? Because if it is, that's awesome.

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fleur-de-lys - May 30, 2005 7:35 pm (#2639 of 2981)

What an interesting discussion about organ donation. I'm really enjoying reading everyone's thoughts. I do understand people's religious reasons for refusing.

Thanks, Ticker, for sharing that thought from your teacher. Its a very interesting view point and I certainly understand the reasoning behind it. I guess that's also something for the doctors and family to think about for the recipient. I know I look at as, perhaps I can help some child have their mom or dad around longer if I donate. I lost my dad at age 10 and, though there was nothing that could be done for him, I know it would have been wonderful to have him around longer. I would love to help a child have more years with a parent, if I were not able to be around longer. But I certainly see your teacher's point as well. You certainly don't offend me by your choice to wait and research more. I know everyone has their own views and they are entitled to them.

I had asked because a few loved ones have refused and I can't seem to get an answer that is acceptable to me. They are entitled to their views and I love them dearly, but, until they give me an answer like some I've read on here or one that seems acceptable to me, I'll still question them on occasion. But I would only ever do that with my very close loved ones. I'm certainly not going to get up in anyone else's face and preach to them. Just my loved ones. Tee hee

Lina, I'm glad to hear your daughters' eyes are good. That can be a scary thing.

Julia, thanks for the enlightenment as to why you are swinging a chicken. More nightmares tonite. Yippee.

Homemade ice cream. YUMMMMM!!!!! We had been making lots, but our bum freezer doesn't freeze the tub for the maker well enough. Time for a new freezer.

Mom's procedure is a go for tomorrow and, if everything goes well and she ahs a good nite, she should be home on Wednesday!! Yeah, the end is in sight!!!!! I'll be back to update tomorrow.

Nitey nite all and have a nice week.

Luv till the kitchen sinks, Lori

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Catherine - May 30, 2005 7:44 pm (#2640 of 2981)

Catherine, is that Snidely Whiplash in your avatar? Because if it is, that's awesome. –Julia

Indeed, Julia, indeed.

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Ydnam96 - May 30, 2005 9:31 pm (#2641 of 2981)

Catherine, for a while I thought it was a picture of the Purple Pie man from Porcupine Peak from the Strawberry Shortcake cartoon series.
In my defense they do look similar

Oh, on the subject of homemade ice cream...have any of you made the kind where you kick it around in a coffee can? We used to make it like that. Yum. You put all the ingrediants in a small sized coffee can, then seal it up really well with duct tape, then put that can in a larger can filled with ice and rock salt. You tape that up really well and kick it around the yard for a while. Pretty soon you have yummy home made ice cream, and you've already worked off the calories

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Ticker - May 30, 2005 9:37 pm (#2642 of 2981)

Thank you all for being gracious with my differing opinion in regards to organ donation. It's a good issue to discuss - especially with family. We discussed it in the kitchen before dinner. "I discussed organ donation on the internet tonight. What are your thoughts about it?" makes a great opening.

Denise those 3D photos are really neat, and not that I expect an answer, but what is that under Baby P's leg?

Mmmmmmmmm... Homemade ice-cream. Sounds yummy except it's like 50 deg F outside & raining here. Well, by now it's probably in the 40's. Maybe next weekend. Could be why it's not our family tradition.

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The giant squid - May 30, 2005 11:32 pm (#2643 of 2981)

Ponine, I went to UND from fall of 1990 to spring of 1992--at which point I ran out of money & decided to work for a living instead. When I went there most of the Native Americans were against changing the name, while the rest didn't care one way or another. I have never understood why the UND "Fighting Sioux" was offensive but the Notre Dame "Fightin' Irish" isn't...

Ticker, I am down as an organ donor. As others have said, if someone else can benefit from my (admittedly abused) organs after I'm done with them, more power to them.

--Mike

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Chemyst - May 31, 2005 5:24 am (#2644 of 2981)

Several years ago, an associate of mine had a heart transplant. He turned out to be one of those cases where one set of medical problems is traded for another. One reason that organ donation is such a complex issue is that there is no way you can put a price tag on love. I have come to believe that the best you can do is to live so that at the end of each day you can say, "no regrets." If you can do that, you've made a good choice.

I haven't kept up with recent developments in legislation, but at that time, quite a few states had some sort of option to declare yourself an organ donor when you got your driver's license renewed. But only 10 states linked the names directly to any registry, so unless someone asked to see your license at that moment, it was unlikely that your organs would be donated. Even among the states that did have registers, there were many problems with the information being available; some could be accessed only during normal business hours, some released information only to law enforcement, some would link to some organ banks but skip eye banks, etc. I'm sure some of that has changed because a lot of folks have worked to make improvements, but if it is important to you to become an organ donor, you are going to have to tell people and fill out some paperwork in advance.

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Good Evans - May 31, 2005 5:34 am (#2645 of 2981)

fingers crossed for your Mother, Lori, that everything goes well. You are in my prayers and thoughts.

I have sad news, My Grandmother died yesterday afternoon, peacefully in her sleep (she felt tired and went and had a nap, she was 93). I could seriously do with one of Ron's drought charms, as I am a bit leaky everytime I think about her.

I was so sad when she couldn't come to my wedding three years ago, and now I am doubly sad, as she has now gone. I'm filling up again and I am at work so I am going to leave it there. Suffice to say she was a wonderful lady and I loved her very much.

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Lupin is Lupin. Natch. - May 31, 2005 5:44 am (#2646 of 2981)

It's a complicated issue & until I resolve some things in my own mind & heart, I have elected not to be an organ donor.---Ticker

Ticker, it was commendable of you to voice the lone dissenting opinion. (Budge up, mate, and make some room.) I, too, am not an organ donor. (In the interest of full disclosure, I would probably be unacceptable even if I wanted to be.) As others have said, it is a very personal decision and both sides of the argument have merits.

Good Evans, my condolences on the loss of your grandmother. We should all pass so peacefully.

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Loopy Lupin - May 31, 2005 6:05 am (#2647 of 2981)

It was a school rule that no head coverings be allowed (yes, Loopy, really) of any kind.—Catherine

No, no, no, no. I think I need a cold compress.

As for donating organs, I'm all for it. I don't anticipate using them again once I'm through.

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Denise P. - May 31, 2005 6:05 am (#2648 of 2981)

Denise those 3D photos are really neat, and not that I expect an answer, but what is that under Baby P's leg?

Fingers or toes! Baby P was sitting on hands so what you think you may see, are fingers or toes and not necessarily what you think it may be The baby was sitting criss cross with one hand in the lap, one hand on the side. The tech took that picture because you could see the head, torso, arms and legs all in one shot. I would not have put it up if it had some identifying gender feature LOL

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Catherine - May 31, 2005 6:34 am (#2649 of 2981)

I would not have put it up if it had some identifying gender feature LOL –Denise

Foiled again.

No, no, no, no. I think I need a cold compress. --Loopy Lupin

I think that qualifies as a head covering. It'll have to go.

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applepie - May 31, 2005 6:39 am (#2650 of 2981)

Good Evans - I am so sorry for the loss of your Grandmother. I will keep your family in my thougths and prayers.

Lina - I'm glad that everything is good with Michaela's eyes. I've never heard of "running". But, I'm glad that is resolving itself.

Fleur - Wonderful news about your Mom. I hope the procedure goes well.

Just as yesterday, my posting today will be very limited. We have a few people on vacation in my office, and I will be filling in for one of them while doing my own job as well. So, I'll be pretty busy this week.

I saw Love Actually last night and enjoyed it, but I was a bit disappointed in the end. I wanted to see some major making up done by Alan Rickman. But I was left waiting...It was like my DVD was missing the last 30 minutes of the movie. But, it did make me laugh.

Well, hope you all have a nice Tuesday. It's still wet over here, and I am wondering if my youngest will have his baseball game tonight, or if it will be cancelled.

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Finn BV - May 31, 2005 8:12 am (#2651 of 2981)
Edited May 31, 2005 8:46 am

Wow, how conversation topics change! From organ donation to ice cream flavors… this certainly says a lot about our posters. (Not sure exactly what it is that it says but if you do please let me know! )

Lori, I still have your mother in my prayers. Good luck with the procedure
Julie, I am so sorry about the loss of your grandmother. At least it was peaceful and – so it appears – she was happy as she went.

Well, as for me, I'm off to study for my Spanish final tomorrow! And then, after that… NO MORE SCHOOL UNTIL SEPTEMBER! W00T!
Have a great Tuesday everyone…

Edited for clarity of my phrasing.

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applepie - May 31, 2005 8:34 am (#2652 of 2981)

Best of luck, fbv807!

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Ticker - May 31, 2005 8:37 am (#2653 of 2981)

Just checkin' Denise.

So sorry for your loss Good Evans. I'm glad you have some really priceless memories to fill your tears with love. Leak all you need to.

I'm crossing my fingers for your mom Lori. Hope today's procedure goes well.

fbv807 - Good luck!!!

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librarian314 - May 31, 2005 8:42 am (#2654 of 2981)

Hey all!

Good Evans II - sorry to hear about your grandmother. I know she'll be missed.

I recently saw Love, Actually and really enjoyed it, except for the Rickman/Thompson story line. I really didn't like his character at all and felt no sympathy for him. He was a first class bean head (to be really polite). I have a thing against marital infidelity (You just don't do it! You took vows, in front of everyone, and you are going back on those. You want to fool around, get a divorce and then do it, not the other way around. Ooops! Sorry about the soap box :-)). I disliked the English Patient because I thought that some of the main characters got what they deserved. I felt the worst for the jilted husband.

Hope everyone had a nice weekend!

Take care!

**michelle the librarian**

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Julia. - May 31, 2005 8:45 am (#2655 of 2981)

Good Evans, I'm so sorry to hear about your grandmother. I know how hard it is to loose someone you love, and Unfortunately there's nothing that can make it better. My thoughts are with you and your family. *hugs*

Fleur, good luck with your mum's procedure, I hope everything goes well.

Good luck on your exam fbv, and congrats for finishing school.

I loved Love, Actually. *sigh* I'm such a hopeless romantic. Alan Rickman was quite horrible to poor Emma Thompson. I like to think that after they got home there was some serious groveling going on. I also like to think that he didn't *actually* go there, although it's likely that he did.

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applepie - May 31, 2005 9:18 am (#2656 of 2981)

Michelle the librarian...I agree with the fidelity opinion. That is a major MAJOR issue with me.

The only reason I really wanted him to make up is because I like Alan Rickman, but I think Emma Thompson played a wonderful role. She keeps it together much better than I think I could. And, although they only hint at the "extra-curricular activities", the embarassment that he brings upon his wife in such a public place made me embarassed for her.

I have often told my husband that if he even thinks that he wants to cheat, to please leave me first, and let me save my dignity...but I hope I never come to that end. We are both pretty passionate about the fidelity issue and our committment to our marriage. We both come from broken families and the fidelity issue was the reason my parents divorced.

Julia...I am a hopeless romantic too. She did get her "digs" into him at the Christmas play...but I felt so bad when she got her gift on Christmas Eve. I wanted to reach through the screen and hug her.

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Doris Crockford - May 31, 2005 9:35 am (#2657 of 2981)

Hi, everyone! I’m finally done exams! It’s kinda sad, though, since that means the end of high school, and I don’t know if any of my friends will be going to university anywhere near me. But we’re still going to see each other a bunch- we’re going on a school trip to Stratford tomorrow to see “The Tempest”, and prom is on Friday night. But I finally found shoes for prom on Saturday afternoon. I’ve been looking for several months, since I have size 10 feet and I didn’t want a big heel, being the tallest person in my grade already.

Good Evans, I'm really sorry to hear about the loss of your grandmother. My best advice for you is to spend time with other family members, as my cousins, grandparents, and immediate family were a huge help when my great-uncle died at the start of May, even when we were not talking about him.

Fleur, I hope your mom’s procedure goes according to plan. I’m sure it will, and your mom will be healing well at home soon.

fbv, I wish you the best of luck on your Spanish exam. I recently finished my exams, and it feels really good not to have to worry about any studying or homework for 3 more months. Except now my dad's bugging me constantly to get a job.

Have a good day, everyone!

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GryffEndora - May 31, 2005 9:44 am (#2658 of 2981)

Good Evans II - My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Organ Donation - I am an organ donor, but now that I live alone I need to tell some other family members so that is covered. I give blood when I can but have had low iron lately. The nurse recommended trying to time the donation exactly between 2 monthly visitors. I'm hoping that will work. They also do platelet donation but apparently I am to short to donate. They have a height and weight requirement and I am too short. Oh, well. My other debate is whether or not to get my ears re-pierced. I never really took good care of them when I was young and finally let the holes close but if I want them pierced mow it will effect if I can donate. Decisions, decisions.

I love Love Actually! I thought Alan Rickman's character was a real bone head but I also felt he was being played by the young thing. I never got the feeling that it went beyond the necklace. Frankly I'm glad Emma found it when she did or else it could have gone further. While I wish their story was more fully resolved I liked that she addressed it, he admitted his folly and seemed to change his behavior and more fully commit to his family. Or, maybe that's what I wanted to see.

Fidelity is sacred to me also. When there is a celebrity that I like and then they get married my thoughts about them change. Where it was "He's so handsome, I just love him, isn't he dreamy" it becomes, "I really enjoy his work, He's a very talented actor, His wife is very lucky." I just can't think about someone else's husband that way. It feels wrong.

(If you haven't seen it yet JKR has a new FAQ Poll Question on her website, the discussion is on the Official thread )

*edit: Fleur - I hope your mother's procedure goes well, I'll be thinking of you both!

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applepie - May 31, 2005 9:56 am (#2659 of 2981)

Thanks for the tip Gryffendora. I may try the "between 2 monthly visitors" idea. That may be the key! If you get your ear re-pierced you will probably have to wait a year to donate...At least that is the way it is here.

I agree that Alan Rickman's character was seduced by "Mia" (I think). I disliked her so, that I don't even remember her name. Alan Rickman is one of my favorite actors. I think his voice is what really sends me into another dimension. But, that's not to say that I imagine him whispering sweet nothings in my ear.

I think the world could benefit in a big way from a few more "fidelity-sacred" minds. People don't seem to see marriage and relationships as sacred any longer. I truly hope I can instill those morals and values in my children.

(Sorry, off the soap box now!)

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Madam Pince - May 31, 2005 9:59 am (#2660 of 2981)

Good Evans, my sympathies on the loss of your grandmother. I know you are very sad, and hope that the good memories of her will help to ease your sorrow.

Fleur, my fingers are crossed for best wishes for your Mom's surgery today!

I agree with all of the above in terms of fidelity -- I didn't like Alan Rickman's character in Love Actually, and also disliked The English Patient and Dr. Zhivago and The Bridges of Madison County for those same reasons. And I don't buy the thing about the young chickie being the main "bad guy" -- I have nothing but contempt for those who seem to get a thrill out of "stealing" someone who's married and have no respect for marriage vows, but it takes two to tango! There's just no excuse.

It's funny, when I first met Mr. Pince, somebody had told me that he was married, so my attitude towards him was just that I thought he was a nice-looking, friendly, interesting person. However, once I found out that he was not actually married to but only dating the person, and that they had now broken up anyway, my attitude adjusted slightly. Thankfully, he feels exactly the same way!

By the way, speaking of Mr. Pince, I can now write what has been occupying me for the last month or so -- his 50th birthday was this weekend, and I planned a big surprise birthday party for him Saturday. It was a roaring success -- he was totally surprised! I was so paranoid about him finding out that I didn't even want to write anything in the Forum, lest he should happen to suddenly decide he wanted to check it out and come across my plans. We had a great time and had almost 70 people at the party. It was great. And now I am completely exhausted! But happy!

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GryffEndora - May 31, 2005 10:12 am (#2661 of 2981)

Madam Pince - Congratulations on keeping the surprise a surprise! That is a great accomplishment! Hope you get some time to recover! *hands Madam Pince a Butterbeer for her and one for the Birthday Boy*

I do agree that it takes 2 to tango I'm just not convinced that they did tango or that he would have gone through with it in the end but again, maybe that is wishful thinking. I love the character played by "Mr. Bean" (can't think of his name right now). He shows up twice and both times pushes the character in the right direction. If he didn't take so long wrapping the package, Rickman would have purchased it sooner, maybe the wife wouldn't have found it, maybe the situation would have gotten a lot messier and marriage ended, then he gets in the way at the airport allowing the kid to run through. I love him as a plot device! He's just great!

Ok, enough for me, Jenifer the Hopeful Romantic! (bonus points if you know what that phrase is from)

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applepie - May 31, 2005 10:13 am (#2662 of 2981)

Madam Pince - I'm so happy your party was a success. My father-in-law will be 60 this year and we are trying to begin planning that party. I am quite sure I will be pulling my hair out by the time it is here.

On the fidelity issue...you are right. It does take two to tango. But, I think that he would not have had the thought pursue her if she hadn't been so forward with him. I have tried to explain the same issue to my sister who has not fully forgiven our father for his infidelity. I first blamed his wife (then his mistress), but realized that he was just as much to blame. I came to the conclusion that he would have to answer for his actions, and that I am here to judge no one. And, because I want a relationship with my father, I have chosen to put that behind me. Not that it doesn't bother me when those feelings surface because of a discussion, or when I think of my childhood. But, if you carry all of that with you, and never forgive, you are doomed to a miserable life. I choose to be happy.

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Catherine - May 31, 2005 10:18 am (#2663 of 2981)

Ok, enough for me, Jenifer the Hopeful Romantic! (bonus points if you know what that phrase is from) –GreffEndora

May I assume that it was not said by the celebrity Ms. Aniston?

Obvously, I have no clue.

Madam Pince, Happy Birthday to Mr. Pince, and excellent work on executing such a big party in secrecy.

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GryffEndora - May 31, 2005 10:23 am (#2664 of 2981)

Catherine, sorry for the confusion. Jenifer is my name, I'm just wondering if anyone knows where I got Hopeful Romantic from. And Ms. Aniston has 2 Ns in her name

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Ydnam96 - May 31, 2005 10:33 am (#2665 of 2981)

Good Evans, I'm so sorry for your loss. A peace draught would be in order I believe. I wish I were smart enough to whip one up for you.

Fluer, is today your mom's procedure? I wish you all the luck in that! I'm sure it will be such a good thing for her.

My days and weeks are so messed up right now. I keep forgetting that this is the last few days of May. I feel so much like today is Monday.

Well my kitty says hi to you all, as he just jumped up in my lap and is currently making it extreemly difficult to see the screen of my computer

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Good Evans - May 31, 2005 10:45 am (#2666 of 2981)

Thanks everyone for your support, this forum is lovely - I was feeling really awful and just thought I would share - a trouble shared is a trouble halved and all. I can't take away my sorrow but I can at least still smile at the other posts and your goings on (esp your kitty Ydnam - give her a hug from me). Thanks for that.

GryffEndora - doesn't Kathleen Turner say that she is a hopeful romantic in the film "Romancing the Stone" - I forget the character - Joan Wilder???

Finn - best of luck in that exam tomorrow - fingers crossed for you

love to you all

Julie x

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GryffEndora - May 31, 2005 10:50 am (#2667 of 2981)

Good Evans II - I am happy to halve your trouble. You are indeed correct, Kathleen Turner plays Joan Wilder in Romancing the Stone and just before leaving her publisher to walk down the street and find Michael Douglas waiting for her with the yacht, she tells her publisher that she is not a hopeless romantic but a Hopeful Romantic! I have preferred that phrase ever since.

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septentrion - May 31, 2005 11:02 am (#2668 of 2981)

Sorry for your loss, Good Evans II. I know how it is to lose one's granparents (I only have a grandmother left) and they always leave too soon.

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CatherineHermiona - May 31, 2005 12:08 pm (#2669 of 2981)

Sorry for your lose, Good Evans II. I know too how it is to lose grandparents because I lost both grandfathers (one in my second and other in my eighth year). I can imagine how horrible you feel and I hope that this forum really helped you at least a little bit. Hope you will recover soon. Hold on.

I would like to ask if there is anyone from Slavic countries? Who did visit Croatia? Which part? What do you like most? Please answer.

Kate

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Elanor - May 31, 2005 12:33 pm (#2670 of 2981)

Good Evans, I'm so sorry for your loss too. My grand-mother died exactly as yours did, peacefully, in her sleep, when she was 94. I was very sad but I knew that, if she had had the choice, she would have wanted to pass on like this and that thought really comforted me then. May it comfort you too.

CatherineHermiona, I never visited Croatia but I would definitely love to do so, it seems lovely! I love your mother's new avatar, this place seems really beautiful.

I am so tired tonight. Today was a field-trip day for my class and another one and having to watch very excited 48 kids about 7 or 8 years old first in a bus, then seeing a show, having picnic and visiting a medieval city is NOT exactly restful... But the kids loved it, so it was worth doing it!

BTW, I had some goods news waiting for me on my computer. Accio answered me saying that the deadline for the paper was still June 21th, that there was a mistake on their site that the staff didn't want to correct first, though they might do it now (well, they'd better!). Phew! What a fright they gave me! Not that the paper wouldn't have been ready for the 12th, it will be ready even before I think, but I really worked like crazy during the last weekend to be sure to be on schedule, though I would have needed to relax a bit too. Well, the good thing is that the work done is not to be done anymore but I still think there is some weaknesses in their organisation!

Have a great day/night everybody!

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applepie - May 31, 2005 1:04 pm (#2671 of 2981)

Elanor, your trip sounds eventful, but very tiring. I'm glad it went well. Also, glad to hear your deadline isn't as close as you thought.

CatherineHermiona, I've never been there, but I would definitely like to travel more after my children are grown.

Finn, Good luck on your exam tomorrow. Study hard tonight! It will pay off in the end.

Fleur, I hope the procedure went well. You are in my thoughts.

The sky is still falling and I feel sure tonight will be a "rain-out" at the ball park. I can't say that I'll be disappointed as I would very much like to curl up on the sofa with my book and read the night away. I am trying to start my little ones on a summer reading program to keep them away from the "electronic demons" being the Gamecube, Playstation, Computer, etc... Otherwise, they will waste their Summer away.

My 8 year old doesn't like to read much. Any suggestions on how to motivate him, or some titles that might grab his interest from those of you with boys that age??? I would greatly appreciate any direction that any of you could give.

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Finn BV - May 31, 2005 1:20 pm (#2672 of 2981)

Applepie, when I was 8 I was really into series books, so (besides Harry Potter, of course) I would recommend the Boxcar Children series (by Gertrude Chandler Warner) and the Magic Tree House series (by Mary Pope Osborne). I've always sort of been a big mystery person… Is he more into sports? Because there are lots of books about sports out there. Roald Dahl is also very fun. I highly suggest The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (especially to get in tune for the movie), as well as numerous others.

CatherineHermiona, I have never visited Croatia before but I haven't exactly done much extensive traveling out of the United States (only Canada, Spain and Italy – and an hour flight transfer in France – hey, I saw the Eiffel Tower from the plane, so it counts! ). Still, the Slavic countries and the rest of Eastern Europe sound great, so I hope some day we'll be able to make it out there.

Thanks everybody for your (unexpected) wishes on my exam! Spanish was by far my best subject this year (for the first two trimesters I got an A+, third trimester grade I don't know yet, and our Oral Exam, which is 50% of the final, I got a 99.5 – of course I'm annoyed I missed that .5 but oh well! ), so I'm not sure I'll even need it, but thanks anyway. It's really hard to study for a cumulative test in a language when you think you know it all, but I'll keep trying. I actually want to be a Spanish teacher when I grow up, or an English teacher in Spain. We'll see, I guess…

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GryffEndora - May 31, 2005 1:26 pm (#2673 of 2981)

Elanor - I'm so happy that you now have all the time you want to revise. I'm sure in the long run you will be happy to have this head start instead of the headache of 1 less week to write. Good Luck! I hope you get some well deserved rest after your adventure filled day. Have a Butterbeer on me!

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Catherine - May 31, 2005 1:26 pm (#2674 of 2981)

My 8 year old doesn't like to read much. Any suggestions on how to motivate him, or some titles that might grab his interest from those of you with boys that age???

I don't have boys that age, but here goes:

A while back, in a "retired" Chat thread, we mentioned some children's books that we liked. The Encyclopedia Brown series was fun, as I remember. I also liked the Soup series by Robert Peck. Judy Blume's Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing and the Fudge series that follows is very entertaining, and don't contain the *ahem* mature themes of some of her other books.

For the less mature reader, we all agreed that the Junie B. Jones books are a hoot. Claire used to enjoy the Magic Treehouse books, too.

Hope this helps.

EDIT: Here's a link to some suggestions by Chemyst, Denise, Kim, and me: http://wc6.worldcrossing.com/webx?7@702.HcVxaVQ4T3p@.1dde141b/360

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Marè - May 31, 2005 1:42 pm (#2675 of 2981)

Who did visit Croatia? Which part? What do you like most? Please answer.

I visited Istrie once in a very, very last minute vacation. Medulin, if I remember correctly. (in the south) It was one of those all in vacations with (inexperienced) travel guide, excursions and disco nights. I am not really a fan of those kind of vacations... (And a costume ball, I packed my bikini, not my dress up box!)

My friend and I made it fun though, we brought snorks and flippers and swam a lot, loved the clear water and the view (the North Sea is rather brown. Greyish on a sunny day at best). However we did make one of the excursions to Plitvic (very Beautiful lakes and waterfalls for those who don't know) and I loved that! I would love to go again because I haven't even seen a tiny bit of it. Half of the day was spent in the bus and the other half our travel operater, or whatever he liked to call himself, had us stay put because he lost most of the group... *snort*

He found me very annoying, because waterquality is my speciality and I kept asking questions he couldn't answer.

Anyway before I start a rant on our guide.. I loved Croatia. don't know much about the people, because of the kind of vacation that it was I really only met dutch people :rolls eyes: So much for experiencing new things...

But hey, if the people on the forum are an indication, I'm sure that Croatian people are all very very nice!

Edit:

See, now who doesn't want to go there?

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I Am Used Vlad - May 31, 2005 1:44 pm (#2676 of 2981)

Catherine, are the Soup books about kids in the early 20th century or something like that?

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applepie - May 31, 2005 1:53 pm (#2677 of 2981)

Thanks Finn and Catherine. I'll definitely look into those titles. He loves sports, but I can't find a subject that interests him enough to read about. He loves to go to the bookstore or library, but can't seem to finish any one book. He has read a few books for book reports for school, and he enjoys them when he is done, but it is pure agony to get him through.

My mother didn't push us to read for pleasure, so I didn't until I was an adult. Now I find it so rewarding and relaxing, that I want my children to know that there is an alternative to television and the computer. I try to get him to understand the pleasure that reading gives you and the way the characters develop in your imagination, but he doesn't seem interested. We have quiet time for independent reading at least one night a week, and usually visit the local bookstore every one or two weeks, but he gravitates toward books with quick facts about one topic. Is this just his reading style, or am I doing something wrong???

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Catherine - May 31, 2005 2:02 pm (#2678 of 2981)

Vlad,

If I remember, the Soup books were set in Depression-era Vermont.

Applepie, some people really enjoy non-fiction, and your son may be that kind of person. He may like books about science or nature better than fiction. Or history.

Good luck.

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Lina - May 31, 2005 2:22 pm (#2679 of 2981)

Lupin is Lupin. Natch.: Ticker, it was commendable of you to voice the lone dissenting opinion. (Budge up, mate, and make some room.) I, too, am not an organ donor. (In the interest of full disclosure, I would probably be unacceptable even if I wanted to be.) As others have said, it is a very personal decision and both sides of the argument have merits.

I need to say that I agree totally. When you meet several people thinking differently, you need to be brave to say you don't agree. Still, I think it is a bit easier on this Forum. (Did I tell you how much I admire this Forum?) You just deserve and meet respect. This forum doesn't just enrich my vocabulary, but it enriches my life too, with different, but still respecting and respectful, points of view.

Good Evans, I'm sorry about your grandmother. I think that it is nice that it happened in her sleep. (My great grandmother wanted to die in her sleep and she succeeded too.) Your grandmother will be with you forever in your memories.

Happy birthday to Mr. Pince!

Applepie, I think you made a good choice to forgive your father. It is a great burden to live keeping resentment to the parents. And I do think that it needs two to tango. It is a rule in the bad marriages as well. I don't think that you could blame only the part that committed adultery. When my parents were considering divorce, I was just not able to take anybody's side. The result was that they started to talk and they found what was wrong that each of them was doing, what each of them could change to make their marriage better and I am happy that they were able to spend their last years together in harmony. Marriage is something that has to be cherished by both sides, many people take it as granted and stop doing efforts. (I think everybody have that phase at some point.)

About the 8 year old children... Well, my Katarina started to read HP at that age, but I'm not sure that counts, she is really crazy about reading. I'm thinking of talking her into reading PS/SS in English this summer, she already knows it by heart in Croatian. But my younger daughter is quite different. She is 11 and still doesn't like to read. But I discovered that she feels more attracted to the shorter stories. If she sees a thick (I hope this is the right word) book, she gets panicked and is not able to read. So, new books are better than old, because they look thinner. More stories of 3 to 5 pages are better than one long story. She liked Erich Kästner, but I am not sure if it is for age of 8 or rather later (9-10) just because those are not so short stories. I don't think that you are doing anything wrong. There are indeed many kinds of reading preferences. I can tell you, I have three children and the only thing they have in common is their gender. I used to read Agata Christie when I was a little elder than 8 and that is about all non obligatory literature that I read until university. Then the things changed. It was my philosophy that every child has to evolve it's own personality until I discovered that this personality could do harm to a child. So this is a fact: some children need to be pushed, some don't. It is your job to use the method of ineffectual attempts and mistakes until you find the right way for your child. What works with one of them, doesn't necessarily work with the other.

I know that CatherineHermiona will be angry with me, but you guys made me blush, especially you, Mare. What can I say but thank you. I would like to be able to invite you all here. I should start working on it.

Talking about her, I mentioned here that I would let her go to the movie with friends before she became a member. Now, I seriously doubt that she read it, but she asked me today if she could go...

Sorry for the long post.

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GryffEndora - May 31, 2005 2:27 pm (#2680 of 2981)

They may be too young for him or you may not like the genre but I have a cousin who really got into the Goosebumps books when he started reading. They are spooky gross kid stories. They really appealed to him and he would ask me to read to him every time I came over. The nice thing is you can find a lot of them at libraries now so if it's a series he likes he can read a lot for free. My cousin finally learned to read chapter books on his own and reads everything, Harry Potter, Lord of the Rings and now he's into Japanese comic novels.

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applepie - May 31, 2005 2:41 pm (#2681 of 2981)

Lina, I agree that a good marriage takes effort and love from both parties. And by allowing myself to forgive my father, I enabled another emotion to fill my life...happiness. It took me a long time to trust my husband, or any man for that matter, because of the events of my past. I kept wondering what made him love me, and waiting for the bottom to drop out, but he hasn't let me down since...and I hope I never let him down.

Thanks for your words of encouragement. I will keep pushing him to help him along. I think he is intimidated by long stories as well. He seems to do fine with the facts books and shorter stories that he can read in one short sitting. That may be the only way to keep him reading at the present time, but I hope he progresses and tries new areas. My husband does not read fiction. He loves non-fiction books, mainly history related. I guess it is possible that my son will be like him. Maybe fiction isn't his "cup of tea". My younger son is in Pre-K and he wants to read so badly that I believe I am going to dedicate my spare time in the summer to helping him achieve that goal.

The rain has finally stopped, but the baseball game is definintely cancelled. My youngest just called me and asked, "When you coming home?" He wants to go to Burger King but my husband said he had to wait until I got off of work. I think he wants the Star Wars toy from the kid's meal....

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applepie - May 31, 2005 2:45 pm (#2682 of 2981)

Thanks, Gryffendora. He actually picked up a few Goosebumps books at the bookstore Sunday, but settled on a book about magic tricks instead. I was so skeptical about buying the Goosebumps books for fear he wouldn't finish them. But, I think I'll take him to the library tonight and we can look at the ones they have. Maybe he needed a little more time to settle on a particular one.

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Ydnam96 - May 31, 2005 4:04 pm (#2683 of 2981)

I'm a girl, so I can't necessarily say I can give a good opinion about what 8 year old boys like to read...but when I was his age I loved history (still do) so I would read some short autobiographies they had of historical people at my school library. One sticks out in my mind of Mrs. Washington, from when she was a child until she was the first First Lady. I really liked it. If he is more into non-fiction that might be the way to go.

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Lupin is Lupin. Natch. - May 31, 2005 4:23 pm (#2684 of 2981)

When you meet several people thinking differently, you need to be brave to say you don't agree.---Lina[

Following along that vein (not that I've ever been a wallflower ), I have to disagree with all those who didn't care for the Alan Rickman character in Love Actually. I LOVED him. Granted, he was a bit of a blockhead, but he was human. I really liked the fact that he wasn't an awful man, but a man with weaknesses. (Puts me in mind of Sirius' quote, "The world isn't split into good people and Death Eaters.") He'd been married a long time, things had grown a bit dull, a bit predictable and here comes this saucy young thing who's got him in her sights. I thought they realistically portrayed how incredibly stupid otherwise good people can be. Emma Thompson's character stood up for herself beautifully. Her setdown couldn't have been improved upon. As for how it ended with them, it was what it was. Obviously, they decided to forge ahead and there was genuine affection between them. I found satisfaction in the fact that their affection for each other had taken a beating yet they were still committed to their marriage. (Sorry for the rant. I really, really liked the movie. )

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GryffEndora - May 31, 2005 4:38 pm (#2685 of 2981)

Lupin is Lupin. Natch. I agree with you 100% Love Actually is on HBO tonight and I may just watch it again.

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Catherine - May 31, 2005 4:50 pm (#2686 of 2981)

not that I've ever been a wallflower –Kim

I must agree. Somehow, shy and retiring do not come to mind when your name comes up.

Your analysis made sense to me, Kim.

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Madam Pince - May 31, 2005 6:01 pm (#2687 of 2981)

Applepie, congratulations on your very healthy attitude! You are right -- harboring bad feelings does more harm to the person doing the harboring than it does to anyone else.

Lina, a fellow Agatha Christie lover! Yay! I have every single thing she's ever written (in a hard-back matched set, no less.) I just think she's the master of hiding clues. I don't know if you will have access to the PBS "Mystery!" series that is currently showing in the U.S., but it is very well done -- Geraldine McEwan as Miss Marple. I didn't think I'd ever like anybody in that role as well as Joan Hickson, but Ms. McEwan does a great job. Of course, the books are the best!

Funny how there are such differing viewpoints about the ending scenes of Love Actually. I thought that the final airport-arrival scene with Rickman and Thompson was very bleak. The impression that I got from the expression on Emma Thompson's face was one of brittle sadness that something within their relationship had been irreparably broken. Yes, maybe they are going to stick it out and stay together, but it will never be the same. Bit depressing, actually. I agree with you, Kim, that the movie and the actors did an excellent, realistic job of portraying an all-too-frequent occurrance. It still didn't make me like the two dishonest characters much, though. And Colin Firth's wife and brother too -- honestly! That was pretty rough on him! Definitely an excellent movie overall, however. I loved the scene with Hugh Grant's assistant when they first met, and she kept letting "bad" words slip out by mistake, and then "Oh, ____! I did it again!"

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Marè - May 31, 2005 6:06 pm (#2688 of 2981)

Lina, a fellow Agatha Christie lover,

Oh I join in with that! I haven't read all the books though, and most I read in translation, but my mum has a great Agatha Christie collection. she stopped buying the books at some point, but sometimes I buy one for her collection (Here mam, have a book, now can I borrow it?)

I found a great site which had all the books in chronological order, so I should really go and see which one we have and which ones I still have to find. Allthough I'm not such a big fan of Poirot... I'll buy those last...

And on the "love actually" front, I thought there were a bit much stories. They could have left the Keira Knightley one out. And I think that the one with Liam Neeson was a bit odd.
-We are so sad because our lover & mother died, but hey lookie lookie there is a Claudia Schiffer look-a-like (cleverly played by Claudia Schiffer) let's hook up with her-
Personality? Character? Getting to know each other?

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I Am Used Vlad - May 31, 2005 6:14 pm (#2689 of 2981)

If I remember, the Soup books were set in Depression-era Vermont.

Thanks, Catherine. I vaguely remember them from elementary school, but it's been a while, so I can't really comment on how good they are.

I love the Miss Marple mysteries on PBS, although I prefer Sherlock Holmes to any of Christie's detectives.

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Lupin is Lupin. Natch. - May 31, 2005 6:15 pm (#2690 of 2981)

The impression that I got from the expression on Emma Thompson's face was one of brittle sadness that something within their relationship had been irreparably broken. Yes, maybe they are going to stick it out and stay together, but it will never be the same.---Madam Pince

What you saw as brittle sadness I saw as disillusionment. That's not always a bad thing. And while their relationship might never be the same, they might seek out something better. I enjoy the fact that you interpreted it completely differently. I think it was played that way just so the audience wouldn't quite know.

I thought the truly sad storyline was Laura Linney's. It was simply heartbreaking. And I say no light at the end of the tunnel for that poor girl.

EDIT: And I think that the one with Liam Neeson was a bit odd. -We are so sad because our lover & mother died, but hey lookie lookie there is a Claudia Schiffer look-a-like (cleverly played by Claudia Schiffer) let's hook up with her- Personality? Character? Getting to know each other?---Mare

Mare, shame on you. And on a Harry Potter website no less. Couldn't you see? It was magic.

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Finn BV - May 31, 2005 6:15 pm (#2691 of 2981)

Count me in with the Agatha Christie lovers! But please, get over Miss Marple! Poirot is by far the better of the two! Also, if you haven't already seen them, the movie versions are very good. My favorite is most definitely Murder on the Orient Express with an all-star cast and excellent plot development.

Guess I'll have to go out and see Love Actually before I can join in any more of the conversation…

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Madam Pince - May 31, 2005 6:18 pm (#2692 of 2981)

Hurrah, Mare! Another fan! I took a course in Mystery Novels in college, and three Poirots made the list of classics in the genre: "Murder on the Orient Express," "The Murder of Roger Ackroyd," and "Curtain." Personally I liked "Roger Ackroyd" best -- you will be absolutely kicking yourself at the end when you find out the clues that were right there in plain sight! You should save "Curtain" for the last one you read, if you haven't already read it, as I think it was the last one she wrote (in chronological order, at least.) The Tommy & Tuppence ones are very cute, and I just adore Miss Marple's razor-sharp acumen, coming out of that sweet little old lady!

***Edit: cross-post with fbv....we should start an AC Club!***

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I Am Used Vlad - May 31, 2005 6:32 pm (#2693 of 2981)

The Murder on the Orient Express movie was great, but I like the TV Poirot better than Albert Finney.

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applepie - May 31, 2005 6:33 pm (#2694 of 2981)

Madam Pince, I got the same impression with Emma Thompson's face. She seemed like she was broken and was just going through the motions to keep the family together. I was sad for her. I loved the movie. I loved the parts with the little boy trying to win the love of his life. I may just put the DVD on again.

Mandy, thanks for the advice on the books. We went to the library tonight and picked out some Pokemon chapter books. He is presently on the sofa reading....HOORAY! I hope it lasts. He also got a Jackie Chan chapter book. I asked him not to get too many as we can only rent the books for 3 weeks and I didn't think he would be able to finsih more than three in that time. But, he wanted 5 books, so I endulged...trying to be optomistic. He wanted all Pokemon books, but I asked him to get another of a different type in case he didn't like the Pokemon ones after starting them. Hopefully we are getting on the right track. Thanks to all of you for your help. I appreciate it.

I am so sleepy that I could just fall over on my laptop right now. But, I'll check some of the posts to see if I can put my two cents in.

Agatha Christie...haven't read that. But, I might check into it after I read some of the others on my list.

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Denise P. - May 31, 2005 6:51 pm (#2695 of 2981)

I have to relate this because I am sure there are other people who can relate.

As already stated, we decided to make some vanilla ice cream. I was not present when the mix was being put together but assumed (bad thing, that!) that Mr. Denise followed the recipe.

I just scooped some up for the kiddies and tasted it. I immediately turned to Mr. Denise with a frown. "You know I have asked you to not add more vanilla to the mix." He protested his innocence, said it was just a little more. Now, I know how this ice cream tastes normally and I know what I just tasted and it was not a little splash more. "Come on, you know this is a lot more. How many times have I told you more is not better?" He looked abashed and then admitted, "I accidently used tablespoons rather than teaspoons" Ack! The recipe called for 3 teaspoons of vanilla extract, he used 3 TABLESPOONS! No wonder I could immediately tell he used way too much.

Next time, I am mixing it up. It still tastes okay but it would have been better with the correct amount of vanilla.

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mollis - May 31, 2005 7:03 pm (#2696 of 2981) Reply
Edited by May 31, 2005 7:05 pm

LOL Denise. My hubby is the same way! We go through more vanilla in our house than I can hardly believe. He puts it in everything - ice cream, pancake mix, french toast, doubles the amount in any cookies he makes. Sometimes I think he is actually hungry for the vanilla, not whatever it is going into!

Oh yea - One Sweet Whirrled is my fav. Love that coffee ice cream.

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Lupin is Lupin. Natch. - May 31, 2005 7:04 pm (#2697 of 2981)

Ben & Jerry's never makes mistakes.

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Catherine - May 31, 2005 7:16 pm (#2698 of 2981)

Ack! The recipe called for 3 teaspoons of vanilla extract, he used 3 TABLESPOONS!—Denise

That's a lot of vanilla. That's actually starting to get a real alcoholic content, there! Mr. Catherine did something similar a while back. He was making waffles, and I usually add a bit of vanilla extract to the mix. He did this high, long pour ala a bartender and the waffles were nigh unedible. What was he thinking???

Kids are invariably honest, and Claire's autism makes her doubly so. She definitley let him know that his waffles didn't taste as good as mine: "Daddy, next time you should let Mommy pour in the vanilla. Promise you won't do it by yourself, okay?"

Music to my ears.

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Marie E. - May 31, 2005 7:31 pm (#2699 of 2981)

For some reason I have to remind Mr. E. not to add pasta to the water until the water is boiling. How hard is that to remember?

We had a lovely barbeque yesterday, hampered only slightly by the fact that it was 49 and misty/drizzly all day. The kids still went outside but had to wear jackets. I definitely didn't want to go back to work today after spending all day chatting with my friends.

My six year old, Lexie, decided to give her bangs a little trim last Saturday night. She came downstairs already crying and confessed to the whole thing. I wasn't very hard on her since it was only the bangs and this was her first time. We did discuss how you need a license to cut hair professionally and lots of special training. For anyone who's seen the movie To Kill A Mockingbird, she now has "Scout" bangs.

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Marè - May 31, 2005 7:43 pm (#2700 of 2981)

I didn't see that movie, but as a little girl I did cut my own bangs once. They went from fairly long to non-existent....
I tried to hide the hair I cut off and myself behind my grandma's chair so that my parents wouldn't find it and me. Didn't work.

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Denise P. - May 31, 2005 8:06 pm (#2701 of 2981)

When I was about Lexie's age, I decided it was really cool to put gum in my bangs and take it out. It worked several times before it didn't. I calmly took scissors and cut the offending wad of gum out. My mother came home and took a look at me and shrieked. Now, my grandmother had been watching me and my grandmother often trimmed my bangs so I, with 6 year old logic, confessed "Grandma said my bangs needed a trim." I was convinced my mother was a mind reader or something because she stated absolutely that Grandma didn't come near me with scissors. What a talent, to tell that! I can laugh now because I have no doubt I had a huge scalped hole in my bangs right up on my forehead that screamed to anyone with eyes that a 6 year old cut her own bangs.

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Madam Pince - May 31, 2005 8:09 pm (#2702 of 2981)

Vlad, you are so right about the "TV Poirot." David Suchet is Poirot Perfection. I really didn't like Albert Finney -- nor Peter Ustinov. Suchet is so excellent.

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Elanor - May 31, 2005 10:38 pm (#2703 of 2981)

Count me in the Agatha Christie's fans club! I don't know exactly how many of them I own, about 70 I think. I was a huge fan when I was a teen. I first read all the Hercule Poirot novels, then the Miss Marple ones, the Beresford ones and finally nearly all the rest of the series... I have not read them for a long time now but I have great memories of those hours spent hunting clues in those books.

Come to think of it, it was certainly a good training for the HP clues hunting we're doing here, don't you think so? Would Poirot be a Potty, I'm sure he would say something like this: "if there is a detail that does not tally with the other ones, then the whole theory has to be rethought." But Miss Marple would certainly open an inquiry at once on the "Mystery of the White Wizard's Socks" that would lead her straight to Harry's fate...

Have a great night/day everybody!

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Ydnam96 - May 31, 2005 11:34 pm (#2704 of 2981)

So for all you cat owners/lovers out there...a question for you. My cat has recently started acting aggressively towards me. Swatting at my feet when I walk by, or swatting and even biting at my arm while I was laying on the couch. This isn't normal for him...he's about 3 years old and he's been fixed since he was 6 months. Does this happen from time to time or should I be worried?

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Amilia Smith - May 31, 2005 11:52 pm (#2705 of 2981)

I seem to remember something about guys, vanilla and pheromones from my required Health and Wellness course. . . .

I finally saw Star Wars on Saturday. I really enjoyed it. Lots of severed hands :-), and the color scheme was almost right. Still more color than the original trilogy, but I'll take what I can get. (I should probably explain that, as I seem to be the only one bothered by it. Star Wars is a morality play. Good vs. Evil. And the color palate in the original movies matched that. Everything is in blacks, whites and nuterals (sp?). Yes, I know not everyone in white is a good guy, but still, the colors work so perfectly with the themes. Then I went and saw Episode I, and was very upset to find that it was in Color!!! This bothered me even more than Jar-Jar, and that is saying something!) I have a question for our resident Star Wars gurus, one that has been bugging me since Episode I, and still has not been resolved. If Anakin is an only child, where did Luke's aunt and uncle come from?

I had lots more to say, but it will have to wait as the Library is closing. See you all tomorrow.

Mills.[/color]

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Marè - Jun 1, 2005 12:06 am (#2706 of 2981)

If Anakin is an only child, where did Luke's aunt and uncle come from

Now I may not see Star Wars 3 till tonight (if I stay awake that is) but I paid a lot of attention during part 2 because this bothered me as well.

In part 2 Anakin goes to find his mother, who got sold, married to a good man and abducted by these mask wearing sandcreatures. In his search for her he finds her new husband, her husband’s son and his girlfriend. So this son is his stepbrother and that son and his girlfriend are going to be Luke's Uncle and aunt. The house where Anakin and Padme stay is the same where Luke gets to grow up.
Why Luke ends up with people his parents hardly knew and only met briefly and aren't even really family with is beyond me. When I saw the trailers for part 2 I suspected his mother remarried and got children in her new marriage. That way the uncle would have been Luke's real family, but alas, I was wrong.

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The giant squid - Jun 1, 2005 12:14 am (#2707 of 2981)

I could seriously do with one of Ron's drought charms, as I am a bit leaky every time I think about her.--Good Evans II

Consider it done! Losing a family member is hard, even when it's as peaceful as you described. Just remember that it's okay to cry, and anyone who says differently needs to be introduced to the Whomping Willow.

Marie, I haven't seen To Kill A Mockingbird (it came out before I started working for the theater ) but I seem to remember (at least) one sister doing something very similar...

If Anakin is an only child, where did Luke's aunt and uncle come from?—Mills

Go back & watch Episode II. Shmi (Anakin's mom) is bought and then married by Mr. Lars. Anakin meets his son, Owen, and Owen's fiancee Beru before he heads out after her. So technically they're Luke's step-uncle & aunt, but what's one more omission when you're hiding the kid to begin with?

Speaking of which, if you're trying to hide a child from his father, is it really wise to take him to the father's uncle...on the father's homeworld...and give him the father's last name (which is different from the uncle's)? It's a wonder Vader never found him in all that time.

--Mike

EDIT: cross-posted with Mare.

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Lina - Jun 1, 2005 2:47 am (#2708 of 2981)

Is it just my feeling or the boys do like Poirot better, and the girls like better Miss Marple? I like her too. Another thing that I like about Agatha Cristie is that she was dyslexic. That might be the reason why she made such good plots and clues not visible to a "normal" eye.

applepie: We went to the library tonight and picked out some Pokemon chapter books. He is presently on the sofa reading....HOORAY!
Just as I was reading this post, my 11 year old, the one with the reading issue, was eating her breakfast and reading Pokemon picture book! And complaining of how much homework she has to do...

Waves to everybody!

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Cornelia - Jun 1, 2005 3:13 am (#2709 of 2981)

Good Evans - condolences, we think of you! And Squid Mike is right!

By the way, Mike, had luck with Hagrids Hut somewhere?

Nice Day!

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fleur-de-lys - Jun 1, 2005 5:01 am (#2710 of 2981)

Hello, everybody. WOW, 70 posts and I've just sorted through all of them. This is gonna be a long post, but atleast I'm warning you in advance. I feel bad that I didn't get on with an update last nite, but as everything went well and I was completely exhausted, I told myself it will have to wait for the morrow.

But first, Good Evans II, I am so sorry to hear about your grandmother. I know how it feels to lose a loved one. It is never easy. I am praying for special comfort for you and your family. It sounds like she had many wonderful years with you all and that's something to cherish. If you need or want to talk, let me know. You can always email me.

Applepie, and other, I too was disappointed at the ending of Love Actually. But I think I got it after watching a few times. I love the movie and love seeing Snape in the role as wandering husband and father. And the whole Snape/Trelawney story (Rickman and Thompson) was interesting. That's the whole reason I watched the movie, to see Profs Snape and Trelawney married. Wouldn't that be a kicker for the end of HP? But that's for another thread. Yes, librarian314, he was a bean head (love that term, must remember it). But its good for a laugh and does have a few happy endings.

Reading for the 8 year old. I am an avid reader, its my favorite hobby. The hubby hates to read, unless its a website. Some people just don't care for reading. Be sure not to push him with it if it really isn't his thing. That can push him away from it even harder and make it difficult for him when he has to read for school. A good way to start is to join a local library. That was, he has a wide variety of books to choose from and can find out what kind he likes. Summertime is a good time for that, as there is no school work afoot. Another thing is to make sure he's not having problems reading. If he's saying he doesn't like to read, it may be a line to cover that he's having trouble of just isn't up to where he should be. I don't want to be the bearer of gloom and doom, but I know that's sometimes a problem. Also try reading together, that may peak his interest as well. Now that I'm done the 70 posts, I am glad to hear you've found something that interests him in the book are. Sometimes that's all it takes. One book to show what a wonderful world reading can be. Good luck!



Kim, thanks for your post on Rickman in Love Actually, you said a lot of what I was thinking too. When infidelity happens, or divorce or thoughts on infidelity, there are always two sides to the story. I know, as I've seen a few things like this in my church, I am inclined to blame who I think is the guilty party, but I try to remind myself that there are two sides to every story. One party may look good and the other terribly guilty, but what is the other's reasoning? I'm not trying to say its right or excuse it, but there are human weaknesses and, because of that, we aren't always able to completely satisfy the other's needs. That's where communication, understanding and compromise comes in. That's when marriage becomes a whole lot of work that a lot of people aren't willing to do anymore. But, if its the right person, the work is definitely worth it!

Ok, update on mom. The procedure went well and she should be coming home today. She came back into the room awake and laughing, joking with the nurses that brought her back. Everything went well, so its almost finished. She got tears in her eyes toward the end of the procedure because it was almost finished. A light at the end of the tunnel. It has been an ordeal these past few weeks. Thanks so much to everyone for your thoughts and prayers. It has really meant a lot to both me and her. I am so glad to be a part of such a caring community. Well, time to go get the day started. This took longer than I thought. Thanks again to everyone. Hope you all have a great day!

Luv till Niagara Falls, Lori

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Catherine - Jun 1, 2005 5:02 am (#2711 of 2981)

It's a wonder Vader never found him in all that time. –Mike

That always bothered me in episodes IV-VI, but that's been settled for me. I have new questions after watching Sith: How did Chewbacca and Han Solo hook up as a team? Why doesn't Vader do that lightning thingy with his hands? Why do Padme and Leia wear their hair as cinnamon buns? How fair is it that so many perish and Jar-Jar Binks lives?

LOL about the “bangs” stories. I didn't ever cut my bangs, but I did, according to family lore, cut off my eyelashes and blamed another child. I'm sure I looked very odd for a long time. ** looks around quizzically **

Looks like we are going to have an inside day. Very cloudy and stormy, and Claire woke up sick. She's a tough cookie. She's thrown up twice this morning already and still insists she can go to tennis camp. I think not.

Have a good Wednesday.

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Ladybug220 - Jun 1, 2005 5:23 am (#2712 of 2981) Reply
Edited by Jun 1, 2005 5:24 am

Mandy, is the cat doing anything else like not using the litter box properly?

I hope that everyone had a nice holiday weekend. I went to see the 'rents. It is always good to go home and have mom cook for you!

Fleur - glad to hear that your mom came through the surgery well.

Good Evans - I am sorry to hear of your loss, but just remember all of the good times and she will still be with you.

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Springtime - Jun 1, 2005 5:48 am (#2713 of 2981)

Glad everything went well with your mom Lori. Take some time for yourself now, and rest.

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Loopy Lupin - Jun 1, 2005 5:55 am (#2714 of 2981)

I'm sure I looked very odd for a long time.—Catherine

Why do you say this in the past tense?

Denise-- Whew! Three tablespoons of vanilla extract? It sounds like the next thing that should have gone into the recipe was Kaluha and rum. Perhaps next time you can just dole out a little cream, some ice and a vanilla bean for the kids. They can mix all that up in their mouths.

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librarian314 - Jun 1, 2005 6:03 am (#2715 of 2981)

Hey all!

Applepie - Glad to hear your son is finding something he likes. Finding what you like to read can sometimes be rather difficult. For most of my reading career (since I was six and got my first library card) I read Sci-fi/fantasy but in the early 1990s I stopped and switched to history because the genre went really downhill; all the stories were the same. I started back up again in the early 2000s when there was a resurgence in decent writing.

Fleur - glad to hear that your mom's come through her procedure with flying colors. Here's to a full and quick recovery.

I really enjoyed the entirety of Love Actually and thought the actors did a wonderful job of portraying the characters. I just didn't like the person that Alan Rickman portrayed and thought that the way he treated his wife was abysmal. I don't know how the characters worked things out. It could have gone either way. I'm hoping that they did work it out because I hate to see marriages fail, especially ones that have been around a while.

Well, y'all take care on this first day of June (hard to believe it's already June!)!

**michelle the librarian**

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applepie - Jun 1, 2005 6:22 am (#2716 of 2981)

Thanks for all the advice on reading. I am happy to report that he finished the book he started in one sitting. It was a simple chapter book about 55 pages long, but he did it. I was so excited. I grabbed the summer reading sheet from our local Barnes and Noble store and had him log the book on it. I signed it and explained that if he read 8 books, he would get to pick a free book from the store. My little one was excited about this too and I read him two different books which he thoroughly enjoyed and made me repeat one of them 3 times. He had us all laughing hysterically.

I understand about pushing him away from reading by being to forceful, so I have tried to encourage him without pestering him. That is precisely why I let him get the book on magic tricks this past Sunday, instead of the Goosebumps books he decided was too "wordy". The last thing I want to do is make the situation worse. When he was in second grade, he picked F is for Freedom, a book about the underground railroad and slavery. It was a difficult book for him to tackle, and I remember my husband reading a page or two then making him read a page or two, just to get it done on time. Hopefully we are past that now.

Fleur - That's wonderful about your mom's procedure. I am so happy that things are looking up for you!

Well, I'm off to work. Lots to do... I hope everyone has a wonderful day.

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Ydnam96 - Jun 1, 2005 7:58 am (#2717 of 2981)

Ladybug, no he's been using the box fine. Could it be that I'm just not playing with him enough? Like he has pent up energy or something?

Fluer, I'm so glad to hear that your mother's procedure went well!!

Applepie, that's great about your son! Someone a few pages back (I'm sorry I don't remember who) said something about paying attention to his reading habits because it may be more than just not liking reading but having trouble. So true that is. I have dyslexia, yet I LOVE reading. Having trouble reading is an indicator for some people. Luckily I was diagnosed in kindergarten!

Off to work...

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applepie - Jun 1, 2005 8:10 am (#2718 of 2981)

I don't genuinely think he has trouble reading. He is an honor roll student and does very well in school, but I do think he becomes a bit befuddled by complex plots and learning new characters. I try to explain that the beginning of a book is usually a bit slow to help the audience understand the characters and story line, but if he isn't interested almost immediately, it's a lost cause. I am trying to prepare him for next school year when he will have mandatory summer reading.

Our local library has a lot of interesting summer activities for the kids, so I think we will make that a priority this summer. He has had a library card since he was five years old (as soon as he could write his name) and my youngest is practicing with getting his letters a little smaller so he can get his card as well. There is something intriguing about that little plastic card and the ability to leave the library with an arm full of books.

Mandy, good luck with the kitty trouble. I have a dog, so I am of no use to you there. I have a friend at work who's older cat will bite her son on the head when he wants attention. She said the cat knows that if her son screams, she will come running....so if the cat is ready to go out in the early morning hours, he bites the 11 year old boy while he is in bed. I think I'd buy my kitty a muzzle if that were the case.

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Ladybug220 - Jun 1, 2005 8:20 am (#2719 of 2981) Reply
Edited by Jun 1, 2005 8:21 am

Mandy, that may be it. Some cats need more attention than others. My male cat use to bat at me when he wanted to play so I got a laser light for him to chase, but he didn't want affection. My girls just rub against me or 'talk' when they want attention or play time. Knightly is mellowing as he gets older (he's now 7) and now wants affection like the girls. He's slowly turned into a lovebug.

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GryffEndora - Jun 1, 2005 10:12 am (#2720 of 2981)

Fleur - so glad to hear all is well with your mom. I hope you get some time to recover yourself.

Applepie - HOORAY!!! Congratulations for you and your son! I'm so happy he found something and finished it! I hope the rest of the summer goes well and hope he earns more than one book!

Have a great day everyone!

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Julia. - Jun 1, 2005 10:36 am (#2721 of 2981)

Fleur I'm so glad to hear your mum's procedure went well. I hope things continue to be on the upswing.

Applepie, congrats for your son finishing a book! If he's into sports you might want to find a book about it. I can recommend some good baseball ones if he's into that. Shoot me an email or an IM.

Well, of to the Judiaca store. Have a good day everyone.

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Penny Lane. - Jun 1, 2005 11:08 am (#2722 of 2981)

Yes, take Julia's advice on baseball books. She gave me a few last semester when I got into a tight spot, and needed to learn things like what a shortstop is for, and why the runner doesn't get tagged out when he runs past first base. It's a long story, but I needed to know things about baseball and fast. She recommended some great fictional books and some non fiction. I was entertained. Now I work at a ballpark selling concessions. Last week I got out before the game was over and managed to chat with this guy and his daughter and they all thought I was smart. It was cool.

Wow, that was a lot of words for something so pointless.

Kitty trouble: There was this time when my cats just went crazy and attacked my legs and bit me and were really, really mean. I thought something was wrong, until it was pointed out that I was out in the garden, and we have catnip out there. I must have rubbed up against it, and since they don't normally have catnip, they reacted strangely. Not much help, I know.

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applepie - Jun 1, 2005 11:25 am (#2723 of 2981)

lemonbalm&bees - Welcome! What a sweet gift to give your father on his business trips. That is wonderful. I am kind of new here too, and I hope your time spent here will be as rewarding as mine has been.

So, again.....WELCOME!

Julia - Thanks for the interest. I'll be sending you an e-mail.

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Good Evans - Jun 1, 2005 11:57 am (#2724 of 2981)

Hi everyone

Your support is overwhelming - thanks again. I rang my Dad tonight as it is his Birthday, so if I feel bad imagine what it must be like losing your mum 2 days before your birthday. Poor Dad needed lots of cheering up, we just chatted for a bit. I'll see him next week at the funeral, he is going to get the biggest hug.

I don’t want to be depressive as this site is full of such fun and upbeat people. Just wanted to say I appreciate you all.

Lori - I m so pleased your Mum is on the road to recovery. Hugs, thoughts and prayers are still with you.

I am a huge Colin Firth fan so Love Actually was a must. I love it - I sympathise with Alan Rickman's character, I don’t dislike him, but everytime I watch it I hope Emma Thompson will open the necklace, but it’s always that CD! Oh well like Gryffendora, the hopeful romantic in me always fights through!

Love Agatha Christie novels, and occasionally I come across one I haven't seen or read - absolutely love 'em. my favourite is the ABC murders. Very clever. On TV I prefer Joan Hickson to Geraldine Mackeowan (who will always be the Crone in Robin Hood to Alan Rickman’s Sherrif of Nottingham to me!!)

anyhow - going to catch up on the posts - keeping busy, and reading is a good one, is the best thing to do right now.

love to you all

Julie X

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Madam Pince - Jun 1, 2005 12:28 pm (#2725 of 2981)

Fleur, glad to hear about your Mom's successful procedure! I'm sure her recovery will be all smooth-sailing from here on out! Give her our best wishes.

Lina, you may have a point about males preferring Poirot, and females preferring Miss Marple. I hadn't thought about that. I think I like them both equally -- maybe Poirot just a tad more. They are both such excellent detectives, although they approach things using a different method. Poirot is the ultimate in logic (which is a stereotypically "male" trait -- ) and Miss Marple is always using that "Oh, the murderer reminded me so much of young Gladys Philpott, the maid I used to have who could never stop her eye tic when she was telling a lie," which is more of a stereotypical "female" trait. They both always get the bad guy, though, don't they? I never knew that about Agatha Christie being dyslexic -- how interesting!

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T Brightwater - Jun 1, 2005 1:22 pm (#2726 of 2981)

342 posts since the last time I was here?! I need a Butterbeer!

Finn, congratulations on your recital, especially the reaction to your composition! A cyberhug to Good Evans, I'm sorry to hear about your grandmother. Fleur, glad to hear your mother got through the procedure and is doing well. I'm a registered organ donor, and I like Agatha Christie, but not as much as Dorothy L. Sayers. I've recently been reading Ellis Peters' George Felse mysteries, which are very good but haven't had as much attention as her Brother Cadfael series.

Lina, I've never been to Croatia but I'd love to go! (Are there any Renaissance/Baroque music concert series there?)

Michelle, sounds like you're in the SCA - may I ask which kingdom?

The recording session in St. Paul was exhausting but went pretty well; I think we got good takes of everything we needed, and we only had one string break, which with four people, five instruments and 68 strings, mostly gut, is a pretty good average. Our concert in Boston will be easy by comparison - I hope.

Edit: Forgot to say: Welcome, Catharina Hermiona and all other newcomers!

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Marè - Jun 1, 2005 1:45 pm (#2727 of 2981)

Quickly jumping in before I am going to bed! (Finally)
I saw Star Wars 3, I even saw it digitally by the way, I looked for pixels () but it just looked great.
Julia, there were several definite **Hug Obi Wan** moments, and now I will have to go and find Elanors post explaining the "conquer death" lines that yoda said to Obi.
I am more positive about the actor playing Anakin, Romance is not for him, but he does the evil glare part very well.
However star of the movie is, without a doubt, R2D2! He rocks! (I will not go so far as to say that he is hot, although in the beginning he had this whole fire thing down pretty well...)

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Catherine - Jun 1, 2005 1:48 pm (#2728 of 2981)

I will not go so far as to say that he is hot, although in the beginning he had this whole fire thing down pretty well...) Mare

SPEW!

R2D2 is a cute little droid, and he did light a fire under everyone.

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Lina - Jun 1, 2005 2:00 pm (#2729 of 2981)

Fleur, I am so glad that your mom is so well. I just hope that she doesn't have problems in adjusting to a new situation and that you enjoy your time together!

Applepie, congratulations on your sons achievement! That's so nice. Just have patience!

T Brightwater, nice to see you. I'm glad that your recording went well. Now, I wouldn't be pushing, but since you asked, I feel I owe some answer. I think that the most popular and probably the most beautiful town in Croatia is Dubrovnik. They organize the Dubrovnik Summer Festival every year and I'm pretty sure that beside some theater shows and folklore shows it includes some Renaissance music too. As for the Baroque, the most popular are the Varazdin Baroque Evenings that are in autumn. I think that both happenings are international so you can check the links if you are interested.

I know that I might be boring, but reading this Forum is a pleasure even if a person doesn't feel as posting. I will go back to work in less than two weeks, and then I will probably post less. Until then, bear with me. (Chemyst, I would ask you if you notice my using of some words, but I am a little afraid that you might find some other mistake... )

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The giant squid - Jun 1, 2005 2:01 pm (#2730 of 2981)

By the way, Mike, had luck with Hagrids Hut somewhere?—Cornelia

Not yet, but I really haven't been looking that hard. I figure if we're meant to find it, it'll show up somewhere. I hadn't been looking for it on eBay last time either, so there you are.

Why doesn't Vader do that lightning thingy with his hands?—Catherine

Because it would short out his breathing apparatus? Electronics and high-voltage arcs usually don't mix well.

--Mike

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Catherine - Jun 1, 2005 2:48 pm (#2731 of 2981)

Why doesn't Vader do that lightning thingy with his hands?--Catherine

Because it would short out his breathing apparatus? Electronics and high-voltage arcs usually don't mix well. –Mike

Darn that science logic. Here I was wondering if it was because he had artificial limbs, or somehow didn't rise that high, or sink that low.

I never considered the ekeltricity component.

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T Brightwater - Jun 1, 2005 2:59 pm (#2732 of 2981)

Lina, thanks!!! I will definitely check those out. One of the members of the group I play with is Croatian-American, by the way. And you are not boring in the least!

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librarian314 - Jun 1, 2005 3:33 pm (#2733 of 2981)

Hey all!

T Brightwater - You've discovered my secret identity! :-) Yes, I'm in the SCA (Society for Creative Anachronism, an international medieval re-creation group), Kingdom of Atlantia, Shire of Roxbury Mill.

**michelle the librarian** aka Aelfwynn of Whitby

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fleur-de-lys - Jun 1, 2005 4:05 pm (#2734 of 2981)

Hi guys and gals! Well, mom is home and resting comfortably. The next few days will be a bit of an adjustment with her figuring out just what she can and can't do. But she's happy to be home and so am I. I really appreciate everyone's good thoughts and prayers over the last few weeks. Its been a very trying time, but we're through and now we can rest and catch up. Don't worry, Springtime, I plan to sleep for a month!!! How about a round of butterbeers? I'm buying!

Applepie, sounds like your son has caught the reading bug, reading an entire book in one sitting. No matter how long or how simple, that's very impressive for an 8 year old boy. Harry Potter, here we come. We'll be looking for him on the forum soon. Tee hee. But I am glad to hear he's enjoying the written word. With all the video that's out there, tv, games and the computer, I'm always afraid kids aren't getting enough reading. Good job, turning him on to it! You're a great mom!!! I'm writing this as I go through the new posts, so it may sound a bit disjointed, but I wanted to say that, if he's reading a book in one sitting, it doesn't sound like he has a problem reading. I posted that not wanting to read could be an indicator, but sounds like he's ok. Sometimes, its just a matter of finding something that interests him. I haven't found that with the hubby, so I've just about given up hope. Oh well.

T Brightwater, very impressive job sorting through all the new posts and responding. I'm buying this round of butterbeer, so have an extra on me. I think I'd give up if I saw that many new posts.

Lina, I'm right with ya. The forum is GREAT and the people are GREAT! I love it.

Again, thanks for all your prayers and support everyone. I was telling my mom how nice it is to come on the forum and see so many people sending thoughts and prayers and well wishes. You all are so kind and thoughtful. Thanks again. I hope the forum never changes.

Luv N Mush, Lori

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KWeldon - Jun 1, 2005 4:08 pm (#2735 of 2981)

Why doesn't Vader do that lightning thingy with his hands?—Catherine

But, doesn't he do the lightning thingy at the end of ROTJ, when he is killing the Emperor? It's been a long time since I watched it, I'll admit.

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timrew  - Jun 1, 2005 4:14 pm (#2736 of 2981)

Lori, the forum has never changed since the day I first set 'foot' here.

The people are great, the atmosphere is great, and everything is great! You certainly picked the right place. BTW, glad to hear your Mom is okay!

Anyway, to finish......I belong to one Forum on the Internet. This is it. Of all the millions of sites on the Web, you found the right one. I echo your sentiments..........I hope the forum never changes.

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Penny Lane. - Jun 1, 2005 4:28 pm (#2737 of 2981)

Speaking of reading, I saw a stirt today about Paris Hilton. Apparently, she was at lunch and threw her menu down and said "I hate reading" and she proceeded to throw a fit until someone read it to her.

I also like this forum, and even though I've been here long enough to see it swell to unrecognizable size, it's always remained somewhat the same with the same "Everybody knows your name/avatar" feeling. *GROUP HUG*

Even if I disagree with the star battles talk.

ETA: OMG I DID IT! After how many years here, I finally figured out the code to a smilie!!

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Catherine - Jun 1, 2005 4:33 pm (#2738 of 2981)

I belong to one Forum on the Internet. This is it. Of all the millions of sites on the Web, you found the right one. –Tim

That's me, too! **does Hermione's really know-it-all hand raise**

Like Luke's "million to one shot" in Star Wars, I hit the target when I wandered here.

My involvement here has led, ala Harry, into another magical and fun world, and I appreciate it so very much. **waves to all the "You Know Who's" out there**

I do hope that newer members find as much pleasure in the Forum as I have enjoyed.

EDIT: Congrats to Penny's smilie--you did did it!

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Chemyst - Jun 1, 2005 5:17 pm (#2739 of 2981)

Great news about your mom, Lori.   Also, your signatures remind me of a book I had as a kid. I guess we could add, "yours 'til Potter fans."

...the forum has never changed since the day I first set 'foot' here. – Timrew
I agree for the most part. It did seem to hiccup for several weeks after the Lexicon was awarded JKR's site of the month, but with a few nudges from our top-flight moderators, it proved to be remarkably resilient and recovered quickly.

Why do Padme and Leia wear their hair as cinnamon buns? – Catherine
To keep their ears warm? I don't know, but you have to respect it as a stroke of genius in creating a memorable 'do.
('hope Claire is feeling better.)

Chemyst, I would ask you if you notice my using of some words, but I am a little afraid that you might find some other mistake... – Lina
Nonsense! By the time we get to Book Seven, your English will be better than mine.

Ben & Jerry's never makes mistakes. – Kim
They do lip-smack of political correctness.

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Catherine - Jun 1, 2005 5:59 pm (#2740 of 2981)

They do lip-smack of political correctness. –Chemyst

Ah! Kim is proven oh-so-slightly mistaken. I'm sure it won't happen again.

But she wasn't wrong about the Brownie-Fudge flavor. YUM.

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dizzy lizzy - Jun 1, 2005 6:04 pm (#2741 of 2981)
Edited Jun 1, 2005 6:51 pm

I had a day of complete and utter "blankness" yesterday. No matter how many times I tried, I just couldn't get any words out to write down as a post. So if this one turns out to be long, sorry .

A hug to you Good Evans on your loss, I no longer have any grandparents left, but I still remember them and miss them.

I have registered as an organ donor here in Australia, however, like some, I have so many medical/health issues, I doubt any of my organs would be used anyway. It is the thought that counts for me though. I have benefited immensely from medical science and would like to think I can give someone else that opportunity to benefit.

I've not watched the 3 most recent Star Wars movies. I liked the first 3 fine and have no desire to check out the "prequels". But "Love Actually" is on my list of movies to get. Along with the DVD's of "Lost" and "Desperate housewives". I really want subtitles on these shows, in order to see the episodes again and enjoy them.

I splurged last week and bought the Incredibles on DVD. I liked it I loved Edna and her steamroller tactics of dressing her superheros.

I started reading when I was five and I still read about 3 books a week. Usually one new and 2 re-reads. I have a very overactive brain and I can never get it to sit still and just relax and let the day go by. Reading does that job for me. I often finish a book refreshed and alert as though I had meditated for the 1-2 hours it has taken me to read either the whole book or half of it.

Today is a gorgeous winter day, clear blue skies, slight breeze and the perfect day to finish hanging out the washing. It is not good for our farmers... about 95% of the state (New South Wales) is either "in drought" or is "marginal (close to it)" . It is heart breaking to see the dry earth and to hear of the hand feeding and watering that has to be done. The papers are now starting to call this the worst drought we've ever had, but I take that statement with a grain of salt. I'll need to some more investigating first to see if they are right.

Have a wonderful day everybody.

Lizzy

Edited for punctuation EDIT: Fleur, I am so happy to hear about your Mum. Some "rememberall" potion would be nice about now

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applepie - Jun 1, 2005 6:28 pm (#2742 of 2981)

Fleur - I am so excited that your mom made it home and is doing much better. I know you all are extremely relieved to have some normality back in your lives.

Thanks so much for the great compliment. I have the sneaky suspicion that you aren't to shabby yourself. You sound like a very family-oriented and caring person. I think that is why I like the forum so much, everyone seems to share to come together as a great big extended family, wrapping the world in its security blanket of friendship and love.

I just finished my book Good Grief. I loved it. A very talented writer, an easy and sentimental read for "hopeful" romantics everywhere.

I think tonight I am going to start Eats, Shoots & Leaves. I reserved some books from the library but they haven't called on any of them being available yet.

My 8 year old just got home from a scrimmage game a little while ago. He is eating dinner and has already picked out the book he wants to read this evening. I'm going to read a few posts until he's ready, then curl up on the sofa with him for some quiet time.

Mr. Pie is at a baseball meeting for the age group. They are starting kid-pitch this weekend and the coaches have to meet to discuss rules, etc.

I have half a mind to put in the Love Actually DVD after the kiddies go to bed. I just can't resist those British accents. Although I would like to see Sense and Sensibility again. Either way, I get Alan Rickman and Emma Thompson, so I can't go wrong.

Well, I'm off to read the posts. Hope you all have a wonderful evening.

P.S.: Lina...you are in no way boring. I really enjoy talking to you, and thank you for making me feel welcome.

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Puck - Jun 1, 2005 6:52 pm (#2743 of 2981)

Wow! I just sifted through over 80 posts! This place is hopping!

Glad to her your son is finding something to read. Kids magazines lying around may be good as well. That way even if he only has a few minutes, he can read something. The more complicated books you want to do together. I'm almost done reading my 5 year old "Charlie and the Great Glass Elevator", then on to SS/PS for our next one. Hoping by the time he can read he'll be used to the whole chapter book -delayed gratification thing. I'm starting AA Milne with my girl once she turns 3 this summer.

I've always loved to read, but had a hard time when teachers made me. If allowed to choose the book myself, I'd fly through it, but having it forced upon me turned me off and reading was like pulling teeth.

Lori, glad to hear Mom is doing well. Just to let her know, she will likely set off airport metal detectors. I never used to, but apparently they've been made to be more sensitive since 9-11. I went on a plane last month for the first time in 6 years, and set them off. Now, I get to look forward to being frisked every time I get on an airplane. Family finds it quite amusing.

Off to finish my quilt block and get some rest. Had my sons entire prsechool class plus Moms/ siblings here for a lunchtime picnic this afternoon. Been postponed twice for rain, but we finally had a decent day. It was fun, but the kids and I were quite ready for some quiet time by mid afternoon.

Kathy

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applepie - Jun 1, 2005 6:56 pm (#2744 of 2981)

Kathy, thanks for the advice on the magazines. He has read some of his subscriptions, mainly Disney Adventures. They are very short stories, so it didn't take up too much of his time. I think the routine of setting time aside a few nights a week is going to be out best bet. Make time for independent reading so it's not an option to play on the computer or gamecube. I'm just trying to find his little niche so I can guide him accordingly.

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Puck - Jun 1, 2005 7:14 pm (#2745 of 2981)

Apple pie, Obviously you read alot, and supposedly that is the best influence. I use that theory when I feel like sitting around reading a book instead of doing dishes, etc... "It's important for my children to see I enjoy reading."    Come July, they will see much enjoyment!

Kathy

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Eponine - Jun 1, 2005 7:15 pm (#2746 of 2981)

The Lost pilot is on. I've never seen it, so whoo-hoo!

My best friend is going to be here on Monday! I haven't seen her since last summer when I went to see her in Alaska, and she's going to stay with us for a month and a half. We went to get OotP together at the midnight release, and we went to the PoA midnight showing together. So we decided we had to be together for the HBP release too. I still have quite a bit to do before she gets here though.

FYI, Katie Couric is interviewing JKR in a couple of weeks, and they're taking submissions for questions from fans. You can submit a question here.

I hope everyone is having a great day!

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T Brightwater - Jun 1, 2005 7:32 pm (#2747 of 2981)

applepie, you are in for a treat with _Eats, Shoots & Leaves_. Hilarious!

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Lupin is Lupin. Natch. - Jun 1, 2005 8:05 pm (#2748 of 2981)

Ben & Jerry's never makes mistakes.---Me

They do lip-smack of political correctness.---Chemyst

Are they political? I hadn't noticed. I was too busy eating.

Ah! Kim is proven oh-so-slightly mistaken. I'm sure it won't happen again.---Catherine

See above.

EDIT: Which reminds me, I'm hitting Vermont for two weekends in a row in June. I feel a trip to the Ben & Jerry's plant acomin' on.

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The giant squid - Jun 1, 2005 11:20 pm (#2749 of 2981)

But, doesn't he do the lightning thingy at the end of ROTJ, when he is killing the Emperor? It's been a long time since I watched it, I'll admit.—Kweldon

Actually, the Emperor is shooting the lightning. He was zapping Luke, but switches when Darth Vader picks him up. Vader takes the brunt of it (you can even see a skull outline flash over his "face").

I really am sorry to keep talking about Star Wars on a HP forum, but...y'all keep asking questions I can answer.

--Mike

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Ydnam96 - Jun 1, 2005 11:31 pm (#2750 of 2981)

So Mike, how many times have you watched it so far? I want to go see it again...but I'm waiting for it to come to our $3.00 theater.

You know, I realized while watching episodes 4, 5, & 6 that there are a lot of similarities between HP and SW. We could open a whole thread

My cat is still acting funny. He nipped at me earlier this evening. I've tried playing with him more. There has been a cat outside that comes by and really upsets him. The cat hasn't been around the last two days...but maybe he's just upset. I wish he would start acting normal again. I'm gone to a conference next week and I'll have someone else taking care of him...I don't want him to snip or bite them! Aaaak

So I saw at Target yesterday that you can buy, for $10 a card that says you have pre-ordered a copy of HBP and I guess you turn it in on the 16th and pay the rest? There's just this little box in the book section. That seems kinda wierd to me. I mean, I didn't have to pay to pre-order at Barnes and Nobels.

Well, off to bed. Gotta killer head ache. Good evening/morning to all

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Lina - Jun 1, 2005 11:49 pm (#2751 of 2981)
Edited Jun 2, 2005 12:36 am

Mandy, maybe your cat is just sensing that you are leaving and he doesn't want to let you do it! My great grandmother had a cat that didn't use to leave the house, but when she had to leave, the cat followed her all the way to the ship and didn't want to let her go. Some people thought that it was a bad omen, but nothing happened. We left our dog with a friend when she was a puppy and we went away for a hollyday. I'm pretty sure that he treated her well, but even today, three years later, she gets upset when he comes to visit us, I guess it is because she thinks that he could take her away.

timrew: I belong to one Forum on the Internet.
Actually, I did not understand why some people spend so much time on the forums (I still don't understand it for many forums that I met) until I met this Forum.

Chemyst: Nonsense! By the time we get to Book Seven, your English will be better than mine.
I don't think it would be possible.

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fleur-de-lys - Jun 2, 2005 5:09 am (#2752 of 2981)

Chemyst, what was the book that I am reminding you of? I am taking them from a childhood book and an interested to know if its the same. Also, where did the fifth sorting hat put you, out of curiosity?

Lizzy, I'll try that rememberall potion. What a good idea. Pity I never thought of it before, because I could definitely benefit. Now...what was I doing? **wanders off scratching her head and gazing around the house for inspiration**

Applepie, it is nice to be back on a close-to-normal schedule. I think the munchkin was starting to forget where he lived. But its great to be back and able to relax for a while. But soon time to plan a birthday party. BTW, please tell me how the new book is, "Eats, Shoots and Leaves", when you're finished. No hurry. I'm interested because I spewed when I read the title and it sounds good. Also, who is the author? Is it a murder mystery? I'm with you on the British accents. Give me a British or Australian accent and I melt. I love 'em. Irish and Scottish too. I like many others, but those are my faves.

Puck, we already checked out about airport security, since mom is scheduled to vacation in Vegas in July. She has a card that she carries and will show anytime she's required to go through a metal detector. She also was told that she will be fine around and operating her cell phone and her microwave, things we never thought could be an issue. How interesting. I like your philosophy on reading instead of dishes. I must remember that one. Especially when the hubby gets on my case about reading so much, as he sometimes does, since he's not a reader himself. He just doesn't understand.

Thanks again to everyone for all your well-wishes and prayers. I've been on two other forums, but none of them were anything like this one. It is like and extended family. Its great. When I'm sleeping or away, I can't wait to get back to the computer to read and post again. Now I have a reason to use an internet cafe on vacation when the hubby does. He can't have it all to himself. HA HA on him!

Yours till Bear Mountain has Cubs, Lori

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KWeldon - Jun 2, 2005 5:26 am (#2753 of 2981)

Mike,

So, what kills the Emperor then? I don't have time to go watch it again.

KWeldon

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fleur-de-lys - Jun 2, 2005 5:44 am (#2754 of 2981)

KWeldon, Vader picks him up and tosses him down that center shaft of the room they're in. He seems to fall forever. I'm assuming that's what kills him, since we don't hear from him again. But I have learned from watching Soap Operas (yes, i have watched them) that, unless you see the body, don't count the person dead. Sometimes, even when you do see a body, they bring someone back. I guess they have more magic in Soap Operas than HP has. But, having not read the books, I wouldn't necessarily count the Emperor out. Perhaps someone else has read them and can shed some light on whether or not the Emperor is heard from again. But they probably won't share it, making us read them ourselves. That's what I would do. Yes, I can be evil. **said as an evil "mwa ha ha ha ha" laugh rumbles from her throat**

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Loopy Lupin - Jun 2, 2005 6:03 am (#2755 of 2981)

The people are great, the atmosphere is great, and everthing is great!—timrew

I beg to differ. The Forum is pretty good. I, on the other hand, am quite great and it's about time you people starting recognizing it.

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fleur-de-lys - Jun 2, 2005 6:10 am (#2756 of 2981)

Loopy Lupin, you certainly have an extremely humble opinion of yourself, don't you? How very timid and realistic you are. Tee hee. The forum wouldn't be the same without you. I'll admit that.

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Catherine - Jun 2, 2005 6:34 am (#2757 of 2981)

How very timid and realistic you are.--Fleur-de-lys

Well, one out of two ain't bad. (wink)

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Loopy Lupin - Jun 2, 2005 6:46 am (#2758 of 2981)

Loopy Lupin, you certainly have an extremely humble opinion of yourself, don't you?-- Fleur-de-lys

It ain't bragging if it is true.

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Snuffles - Jun 2, 2005 7:13 am (#2759 of 2981)

The forum would certainly be more dull without you Loopy!!

Can you stop changing your avatars so often? Every time you do, I have to look at your introduction to see what you have writte!  Lol

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Lina - Jun 2, 2005 8:00 am (#2760 of 2981)

Snuffles, you can go to your Forum preferences and turn on "Show second line of author information in messages". Then you can read the second line of information even when you don't want to.

Loopy Lupin, you certainly have an extremely humble opinion of yourself, don't you?-- Fleur-de-lys
Well, many people think that being humble means thinking bad about yourself, but I think that real humility is being realistic. So, if somebody is perfect, he just can't help it.

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Loopy Lupin - Jun 2, 2005 8:01 am (#2761 of 2981)

Can you stop changing your avatars so often?—Snuffles

Sorry, that is my modus operandi . So many Simpsons so little time.

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Snuffles - Jun 2, 2005 8:11 am (#2762 of 2981)

Thanks Lina, I have done just that! Change away Loopy I can keep up now!

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Finn BV - Jun 2, 2005 8:16 am (#2763 of 2981)

Lori, great to hear about your mom. Sounds like things are certainly rising up.

Applepie, you are in for a real treat with Eats, Shoots & Leaves. Being the grammar and punctuation nut that I am, I thoroughly enjoyed her unusual yet perspective sense of writing. (That certainly sounds nice as I read it back.)

Well, off to check the threads.

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applepie - Jun 2, 2005 8:31 am (#2764 of 2981)

Puck, I know exactly what you mean. I wasn't always a reader, but I do thoroughly enjoy it now. I used to stress over tidying the house after the kids went to sleep, now I just curl up on the sofa with a book. Reading relaxes me and helps my body wind down to get ready for sleep. Sure, I might wake up with dishes in the sink, or a pile of dirty clothes to tend to, but I think I deserve some time to myself. I'm glad to know that I'm not the only one that snuffs off housework occasionally for some peace of mind.

Fleur, I am still so excited for your mom being home. I can understand the confusion your little one must have been going through. They are too young to understand the complexity of the situation. Eats, Shoots & Leaves is about the history of English punctuation written by former literary editor Lynne Truss. I will let you know how it is when I am done.

Well, my son finished another Jackie Chan book last night in one sitting YIPEE!!. I sat on the sofa with him for about an hour, both of us engrossed in our reading. He asked if we could buy the books from the library, and I had to explain that the library doesn't "sell" books, but that we could certainly get them elsewhere. I reminded him that there are others in the series, and I think I will login to our local library online catalog this evening to let him reserve some of the others he might want to read. He will get a kick out of that since he loves working on the computer. He is also a bit of an artist, and I would like to teach him to use Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator this summer since we have given him our old computer.

Well, I'm up to my neck in paperwork, so I'd better get back to work. Have a wonderful Thursday, everyone. Tomorrow is Friday...YAY!!!. I'm ready for the weekend.

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Catherine - Jun 2, 2005 8:51 am (#2765 of 2981)

Sorry, that is my modus operandi . So many Simpsons so little time. --Loopy Lupin

Tempus fugit.

It ain't bragging if it is true--Loopy Lupin

Ipsi dixit!

Finis.

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Loopy Lupin - Jun 2, 2005 9:15 am (#2766 of 2981)

Veni, vidi, vici.



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Marè - Jun 2, 2005 9:22 am (#2767 of 2981)
Edited Jun 2, 2005 11:08 am

Tempus fugit = Time flies

Ipsi dixit = He said it himself.

Veni, Vidi, Vici = I came, I saw, I was victorious.

Because not everybody knows Latin... (translated freely, my latin is very rusty)

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Ydnam96 - Jun 2, 2005 9:29 am (#2768 of 2981)

Are we all just randomly putting down latin phrases haha I only know one, carpe diem. Seize the day. Thanks to Dead Poets Society.

Nothing too exciting going on here. My foot is still sore, so I'm still keeping it up as much as possible. Darn, I have to sit and watch movies. It's tragic really

Off to read some threads.

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Springtime - Jun 2, 2005 9:54 am (#2769 of 2981)

welcome to the forum lemonbalm&bees. Hope your dad enjoys the tapes you made for him. I hope to see you in the chat room some time.

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Steve Newton - Jun 2, 2005 9:58 am (#2770 of 2981)

Latin slogans from the Stumpers Archives:

In the words of Dufus Maximus, Julius Caesar's little-known and seldom-quoted dimmer brother: VENI, VIDI, ERRAVI (I came, I saw, I blew it).

Or, in the alternative: BURSA VESTRA, BURSA NOSTRA -- CONFIDITE NOS (Your wallet is our wallet; trust us).

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Penny Lane. - Jun 2, 2005 10:00 am (#2771 of 2981)

Tabula Rasa: Blank Slate.

Three years of Latin, and I can tell you John Locke's philosophy thingy and the Hail Mary. I think. It might be the Padre Nostrum (spelling is off). I suppose there are a few other random things, like Carte Blanche, which might actually be French. And a bunch of boring legal terms like quid pro quo and stare descious. Oh Latin class, how I miss you.

Catherine, What is your avatar from? It's driving me crazy because I KNOW I’ve seen that cartoon but I can't place it.

Is it July 16 yet?

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lemonbalm&bees - Jun 2, 2005 10:04 am (#2772 of 2981)

What I always remember best from latin (back when I was eleven... why on earth was I studying Latin at eleven?) is our less-than-grammatical. SEMPER UBI SUB UBI which technically translates into "always where under where," Spoken aloud, it was cause for many giggles in the sixth-grade hallway.

All of my useful Latin, however, has left me...

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fleur-de-lys - Jun 2, 2005 10:16 am (#2773 of 2981)

Mare, thanx for the translation. I was really stumped on that one.

Lina, I agree with you that being humble means being realistic. I also think it means realizing that there are people, and probably lots of them, who are better than you at certain things. This doesn't mean you necessarily think bad of yourself, just that you are realistic...aaahhhh really the same thing...about how good you are or aren't at whatever it is you are doing. So, if Loopy Lupin is fantabulous at everything, then she (he?--sorry, i'm not sure. don't mean to offend) is being humble by saying she (he?) is great. I don't know though. I think all Loony Lupin is good at is picking on Catherine. Tee hee. I'm glad no one was offended by my picking on Loony. Just had to give a few digs. : )

Love till Niagara Falls, Lori

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Denise P. - Jun 2, 2005 10:20 am (#2774 of 2981)

Unless I am mistaken, Catherine's avatar is Snidely Whiplash, from the cartoon Dudley Do Right, the Canadian Mountie. There was a horrible live action movie done not that long ago.

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Catherine - Jun 2, 2005 10:22 am (#2775 of 2981)

Because not everybody knows Latin... (translated freely, my latin is very rusty) –Mare

At least you have rusty Latin. I had to go to a Latin phrase website and scroll down until I found what I wanted.

About my current avatar, it is Snidely Whiplash. He's not very good at being a villain.

Here's a link to information about the show: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Rocky_and_Bullwinkle_Show

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Denise P. - Jun 2, 2005 10:26 am (#2776 of 2981)

I always liked Rocky and Bullwinkle. I always wanted to see Mr. Peabody and Sherman or Aesop's Fractured Fables. Ah, those were the days of good cartoons.....

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Catherine - Jun 2, 2005 10:40 am (#2777 of 2981)

One of the memorable quotes at the site I linked to reminded me of Loopy Lupin:

Bullwinkle: "When it comes to humility, I'm the greatest!"

Ridendo dicere verum

(Translation: "To tell the truth while laughing" (i.e., joking))

**waves to all the Latin-impaired like myself**

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I Am Used Vlad - Jun 2, 2005 11:00 am (#2778 of 2981)

Now that is something I can *wave* about, Catherine.

Applepie, what is a Jackie Chan book? Is it based on the cartoon? (right you are about the good old days, Denise) Although he is no Buster, I like Jackie.

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Good Evans - Jun 2, 2005 11:01 am (#2779 of 2981)

But I have learned from watching Soap Operas (yes, i have watched them) that, unless you see the body, don't count the person dea. Sometimes, even when you do see a body, they bring someone back. - Fleur De lys[

Oh Fleur - how right you are - We can only hope the Emperor is gone - however with the Sith there are always two - no more no less - one master and one apprentice. In the hope that there can't possibly be another willing apprentice, lets assume he is gone!!

Pleased to hear your Mum is home and things are looking better.

Julie

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applepie - Jun 2, 2005 11:02 am (#2780 of 2981)

Yes, Vlad. Jackie Chan Adventures is the title of the series. I am not sure how many are in the series, but he has read two in two nights. So, I am thrilled!

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I Am Used Vlad - Jun 2, 2005 11:06 am (#2781 of 2981)

Thanks for the (very) fast response, applepie. Today, Jackie Chan. Soon, hopefully, Harry Potter.

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Elanor - Jun 2, 2005 11:49 am (#2782 of 2981)
Edited Jun 2, 2005 12:21 pm

Hello everybody! So many great posts, so much work and so few time for writing here... But I can't resist answering the Star Wars questions!

Fleur: "Perhaps someone else has read them and can shed some light on whether or not the Emporer is heard from again. But they probably won't share it, making us read them ourselves. That's what I would do." Not if you want to become a Jedi, my young Padawan... From what I have read, yes the Emperor really died in the Death Star explosion (between the fall inside that pit and the explosion of the Death Star, all that remained of him was dust, foul dust, sure, but only dust). In "Dark force rising" (T. Zahn), Leia, inside the Millenium Falcon in orbit above Endor, passes through the position where the Death Star blew up and feels a kind of "emotional print" (rage, hatred, despair...) left by the emperor dying.

I believe there is a sequel in which a clone of the Emperor appears but I have not read that one (and I don't remember its title either, sorry!). But I do know that Leia's "buns" are a typical Alderaanian hairstyle, though this time I don't remember who asked the question (sorry again!).

Thank you so much for your words of encouragement about the paper GryffEndora, Lina... It means a lot to me! You guys are the best!  Timrew is right, this place is definitely the best place on the internet!

((((hugs)))) to everyone needing some!

Audrey

Edit: about Latin, I have a little riddle for you, this is a sentence I had to know by heart for a Latin class once, ever heard of it?

cesauticaclaunegalbovivestidonertrajhaanmarcau

A fresh butterbear on me to the ones who find out what it means!

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Madam Pince - Jun 2, 2005 12:13 pm (#2783 of 2981)

*twangy voice*
Oh Lord, it's hard to be humble....when you're perfect in ev-er-y waaaay....I cain't wait to look in the mirror....'cause I get better-lookin' each daaaaayyy!

*hand to ear*
Is that Loopy Lupin I hear singing????

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Julia. - Jun 2, 2005 12:19 pm (#2784 of 2981)

Good afternoon everyone.

Applepie, I got your email and I will respond when I have a bit more time on my hands.n Going on a walk with Daddy now, TTFN!

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Catherine - Jun 2, 2005 12:27 pm (#2785 of 2981)

s that Loopy Lupin I hear singing???? --Madame Pince

Gosh, Loopy sings, too? He really does deserve recognition.

On a completely Loopy-free topic, I spent a little while compiling questions to submit for Katie Couric's interview with JKR. Thanks for the link, Eponine.

Can I just say that I hope they don't pick the kind of question that is really a waste of air time? I can see myself throwing something at the screen if Couric asks a question like, "What is your favorite flavor of Bertie Bott bean?" I know that we at the Forum will make our submitted questions count, but I hope that everyone else does, too.

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Loopy Lupin - Jun 2, 2005 12:37 pm (#2786 of 2981)

On a completely Loopy-free topic, --- Catherine

Booooo!

Gosh, Loopy sings, too? He really does deserve recognition. – Catherine

Finally! Someone seeing things my way.

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Eponine - Jun 2, 2005 12:58 pm (#2787 of 2981)

Can I just say that I hope they don't pick the kind of question that is really a waste of air time? I can see myself throwing something at the screen if Couric asks a question like, "What is your favorite flavor of Bertie Bott bean?"

Oh me too! And no more shipping questions! She's not going to answer them! If there's one more question about the books she read as a child, how she started writing, if Ron and Hermione are ever going to snog, whether Harry's going to die or what's going to happen to Voldemort at the end of book 7, I'm definitely throwing things at the screen.

I asked, 'Does a Pensieve show an unbiased, omniscient recollection of a memory, or is it affected by the person whose memory it is?'

I'm going to try to come up with some more questions that might actually be answered. But we know she's not going to tell us who the Half Blood Prince is or anything of the sort. So I hope that the powers that be at the Today Show (is that it?) pick some decent questions.

I was at the mall today, and walking past Gap Kids, I noticed a huge sign in the window that had the rules for Marco Polo on it. One of the rules was, 'Don't get caught.'

I love this forum. There are a few others I belong to online, but this was the first one I joined, so it will always be first in my heart.

I hope everyone is having a great day!

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T Brightwater - Jun 2, 2005 1:09 pm (#2788 of 2981)

Elanor, you little mischief-maker, that's going to make me crazy until I figure it out! Aaaack! Is there a free bed in St. Mungo's???

*walks off muttering to self*

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The giant squid - Jun 2, 2005 1:27 pm (#2789 of 2981)

Loopy, you're truly a prince among men. I'm not entirely sure what that means, but it sounds impressive, doesn't it?

Mandy, I've only seen Episode III all the way through twice. I've seen hundreds of snippets, though--we have ten screens at our theater & Star Wars is on six of them. It's kind of fun to watch one of the big lightsaber fights then walk down two projectors & watch it again. Sadly, I have to stop occasionally to actually work...

As for the returning Emperor question, he didn't return in any of the novels, though the comic book series Dark Empire and Dark Empire II (catchy, huh?) involved a clone of the emperor coming back & taking over. It's alluded to briefly at the beginning of Timothy Zahn's Thrawn trilogy Which is why Elanor thought she'd heard of it).

Catherine/Elanor: I'm right with you on which questions shouldn't be asked. If anyone wants to know what sort of books JKR read growing up or how she came up with the idea for Harry Potter there are hundreds (at least!) of articles, chat transcripts and whatnot available with that information. Tell us something we haven't heard already!

--Mike

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T Brightwater - Jun 2, 2005 1:36 pm (#2790 of 2981)

Got it! Let's see if this works:

mnemonic of Roman Emperors from (Julius)Caesar to Marcus Aurelius

Hey, that's my first try at HTML! Maybe I'll get an avatar someday.

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applepie - Jun 2, 2005 1:41 pm (#2791 of 2981)

No problem, Vlad. I try to sign on whenever I have a spare moment, so I am glad I caught your question quickly.

Julia, take your time. He's got enough to keep him busy for now.

I'm exhausted. This has been a day, and it's only 3:35pm here. I still have 1 1/2 hours of work left......(sigh)

On Star Wars, count me out. I've seen them all except the newest one at the box office, but I'm not as crazy about Star Wars as I am about Harry Potter. I just know that I tried on a pair of enormous headphones that my father-in-law bought because they were sooo comfortable, and I recall asking my husband if I looked like Princess Lea (sp?). He surprisingly agreed.

Well, I'm off to check the posts.

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Julia. - Jun 2, 2005 1:44 pm (#2792 of 2981)

Applepie, it's Leia. I think I'd like to see a picture of you with bun hair.

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applepie - Jun 2, 2005 1:46 pm (#2793 of 2981)

Julia, I assure you that you wouldn't! Unless you wanted a great big laugh.

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GryffEndora - Jun 2, 2005 1:52 pm (#2794 of 2981)

Here is a "Latin" phrase that we hear every year around the fishing opener Carpe Carp - Seize the carp!

Have a good one!

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Elanor - Jun 2, 2005 1:57 pm (#2795 of 2981)

Bravo T Brightwater! Have a butterbeer on me!

Actually the "ces" part of it wasn't in the "phrase" first but I always added it to the list, though he wasn't an emperor, because I thought it sounded better like that. The weirdest thing about it is that I still know it by heart years and years after... It comes to be handy sometimes. Well, not that often but if they're questions as "who succeeded to Galba?" in a trivia game, I'm unbeatable!

Mike, thank you so much about the clone emperor reference! I knew I had read about it somewhere. Great to know I'm not completely crazy (though I know I certainly would do with a stay at St Mungo... Is there room left, T. ?).

Bonne nuit! Good night everybody!

Edit: Thanks Applepie!

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applepie - Jun 2, 2005 1:58 pm (#2796 of 2981)

Elanor, sweet dreams.

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Lina - Jun 2, 2005 2:08 pm (#2797 of 2981)

My youngest didn't cut her bang, she cut her hair this winter. I don't expect her to do it again soon because she was not very satisfied with the outcome. But there are still so many things to cut. She uses to paint something and then cut all the paper around the artwork. Then she takes this paper and cuts it in small pieces, then cuts those small pieces into smaller and so on. She has even cut two pairs of earphones (is it the right word - what you use to listen to the walkman). I got worried - is she going to cut everything? Well, today I found the explanation: We went to school where the kids had a recital. There was a story about the sea and the sea animals, and a crab came wanting to cut something. At that moment I finally understood - she is astrological cancer, she is supposed to cut! I'll just have to keep an eye on her!

About Latin: I was in a church few days ago and was watching a date on some stone, something like XXX IVNII MCMDXII, and I was watching it for some time and trying to figure out what kind of number would that N be? Only when I raised my sight and spotted another date, containing AVGVSTI, I found out that N is not a number... (June)

Believe me, Loopy, although we don't "speak" much, I can totally see things your way...

Oh, T Brightwater, I thought that you were too serious to have an avatar! If you need help, e-mail me at lina@pravri.hr!

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Amilia Smith - Jun 2, 2005 2:58 pm (#2798 of 2981)

Two days later . . . thank you, Mike and Mare for answering my question about Luke's aunt and uncle. I guess now would be the time to admit to only seeing Episode II once.

Lina: Then she takes this paper and cuts it in small pieces, then cuts those small pieces into smaller and so on.

You reminded me of a Baby Blues cartoon I read a while back. I can't find it on their website to link to it, but the jist is as follows: Wanda (the mom) is going through the mail. There are lots of credit card offers, which she says she will put in the paper shredder. Darryl (the dad) asks, "Since when did we have a shredder?" Wanda replies, "Since Hammie learned how to use scissors."

(BTW, yes, "earphones" is the correct word. "Headphones" would also work.)

The library here has a very large Russian collection. Well, larger than the libraries back home. As I walk through the stacks, past rows and rows of Russian literature, I have started to think that I need to brush up my Russian in order to make use of all of this wonderful material. And trust me, it needs a lot of brushing up. So I decided to check out a book in both English and Russian and read both together. I chose Babbi Yar, mainly because there was both a Russian and an English copy sitting right next to each other on the shelf. However, I think I have bitten off more than I can chew. I can only make it through about three or four paragraphs at a time. While I am probably going to finish the book in English (for all I chose it at random, it looks to be a very interesting book, about the German occupation of Kiev, and the massacre of some 200,000 in the ravine called Babbi Yar), I now need something else to brush up my Russian with. Does anyone know of some short Russian children's stories that have good English translations? I'll ask down in the Recommended Reading thread as well.

On another note, my computer came in yesterday (yay!), but the hard drive had come loose and was bouncing around (boo!). So the computer is currently not working. After a long phone session with Dad, I have decided to let it sit until one of the genius brothers who put it together is available to help. One is at Scout Camp, and the other works graveyards, so he won't be up for another few hours. At least with the four hour time difference between Hawaii and Utah, I am now up at the same times he is.

Mills.

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Ydnam96 - Jun 2, 2005 3:04 pm (#2799 of 2981)

Oh, I am very sad. I'm going away next week to a conference and I'm going to have to board my cat at the vet's. He has been acting strangely and he is on some medicine so I don't want to just leave him and have a friend look in on him. But I hate that I have to take him somewhere and leave him there. And I hate that even though I leave on Monday morning I have to take him on Saturday because I leave so early on Monday and they aren't open on Sunday to accept animals. So he has to be there for 6 days because I don't come back till late Thursday night. Plus, I don't really have the money. Oh well.

I know some of you all have boarded your animals before. Is it really an okay thing to do? Is someone there with the animals all the time or are they left alone? It makes me so sad.

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timrew  - Jun 2, 2005 3:31 pm (#2800 of 2981)

The people are great, the atmosphere is great, and everything is great!-- timrew

I beg to differ. The Forum is pretty good. I, on the other hand, am quite great and it's about time you people starting recognizing it.-- Loopy Lupin

Sorry I left it so late, Loopy. But what he says is quite true, folks. Whoever heard of a modest lawyer?

........I believe those are the kind that ride bicycles........

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Chemyst - Jun 2, 2005 3:57 pm (#2801 of 2981)

Fleur, the 5th sorting hat was Hufflepuff. I'm not sure what the title was to that book, only that it began "Yours til..." It could have been Niagara Falls. I remember the publisher better than the title, Scholastic Book Services. I did a short search and could not find it. I am guessing that sometime after the mid-80's they reorganized that service, but back in the day, they would reprint children's books on something akin to newsprint paper (it would begin to yellow within a year) and sell them very cheaply. When I was nine years old, every dime I did not spent in the vending machine after swimming lessons went to buy books from SBS. When I went off to college, my mother thought she would "help out" by de-cluttering my room when I was away. The end of it is that today I have only one of those books left, an abridged copy of Little Women that originally sold for 50 ¢

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Madam Pince - Jun 2, 2005 3:59 pm (#2802 of 2981)

Ydnam96, we have to leave our dog at the kennel when we go on extended vacations, and although I'm sure she doesn't like it as much as home, we've always been very satisfied. I take her to the place where we did her Puppy Kindergarten and all her obedience training classes, because I like the lady and because she knows all the dog's quirks, etc. I think it depends on the individual place as to whether or not they are with the animal all the time. In our case, the woman's house is about 50 feet from the kennel, but of course the dogs do stay in the kennel and not in her house. Have you considered getting someone to come to your house? That's a booming business now, I understand, and the people are bonded with insurance and everything so you don't have to be so nervous about strangers in your house. I personally wouldn't go that route unless I knew the person, but you may want to think about it.

Update on the baby birds: sadly, only two of the three are still with us. On the other hand, I feel fortunate that we still have the two. Apparently Evil Killer Dog was right there when the little ones decided to venture out into the world, and one of them got a rude welcome. I was very angry at the dog, but she clearly thinks she'd defending her home and "pack" from any and all intruders. Yeah, those wicked baby birds are such a threat.    . Anyway, one of them is out of the nest but still in the bush where the nest is, and the second one is in a tree in the neighbor's yard, being coaxed by Mama and Papa Bird to try to fly more. So, everyone keep your fingers crossed! I will not be letting Evil Killer Dog out without her leash until I'm satisfied that the birdies are all grown up and flying.

I had such an enjoyable evening last night, listening to the "Eagles Farewell Tour" that was being broadcast from Melbourne, Australia. They are just my all-time favorite band. I am not much of a music-lover, but I know all their songs by heart. It was my kind of concert -- no fancy costume changes, no pyrotechnics or spectacular light show, just beautiful singing and absolutely fantastic harmony. The only problem was my throat was a little sore by the end of it, because I hardly ever sing for two straight hours!

Edit: Hey! One of the birdies is flying, albeit only about two feet off the ground! I took Evil Killer Dog out on leash, and we surprised the birdie who was sitting on the woodpile, and then it flew off. So they are progressing! Yay!

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T Brightwater - Jun 2, 2005 4:13 pm (#2803 of 2981)

Lina, thanks for the offer - I've e-mailed you to take you up on it.

Chemyst, I remember those SBS books too. I don't know what became of my collection. I think I donated them to a library book sale or something.

One house I lived in for a while had a pair of kestrels (small falcons, also called sparrowhawks) nesting in the eaves for three years straight. One year they fledged four young ones, and it was so much fun to watch them! After they came out of the nest they spent the next couple of days on the roof of the house next door, practicing flying and mobbing the adults whenever they came in with food.

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Ydnam96 - Jun 2, 2005 4:28 pm (#2804 of 2981)

Madame Pince, thanks  - that does make me feel better. But my cat is on medication and he's been acting strangely so I think that it's the best decision. I just hate it.

It is totally awesome you got to hear the Eagles. Did they sing Hotel California? I love that song. Happy to hear that some of the birds made it through their first out-of-nest experience.

T. Brightwater, that must have been a wonderful experience to see those baby birds.

Goodness Gracious my cell phone keeps ringing. I swear I'm going to get rid of it one of these days. (I'm ignoring for the moment.)

Happy Thursday.

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Catherine - Jun 2, 2005 4:47 pm (#2805 of 2981)

Did they sing Hotel California? I love that song.—Ydnam

Hmm..Is the Forum the Hotel California? ** hums "you can never leave..."**

a modest lawyer—Timrew

Now that's funny!

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Penny Lane. - Jun 2, 2005 5:21 pm (#2806 of 2981)

Everyone posts a lot.

Catherine/Denise: Thanks. I knew that I had seen that non-villain before. I was right! *does happy dance*

My parents found a townhouse, and they are moving on the 13th. I wish I wasn't going with them, I do think it's time I found my own place. Alas, I guess we can't always get what we want.

Was that Eagles concert on TV last night? I swear I was flipping around and heard that one song that I like by Joe Walsh, but was really confused because it was on Network TV and they don't usually play concerts.

Glad to hear that the birds made it out safely.

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Ladybug220 - Jun 2, 2005 5:33 pm (#2807 of 2981)

Mandy, how long has your cat been on the medication? Does it coincide with his aggression? He may not like taking it or rather being forced to take it and that is why he is acting out.

Loopy and Tim, thanks for all of the laughs!

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Accio Sirius - Jun 2, 2005 6:16 pm (#2808 of 2981)

Hi all. Not to come out of left field with this, but does anyone here having any experience making their own Hogwarts cloak? Halloween is a long way off, but I meant to make a cloak for my daughter last year and I'm not the best with a sewing machine. Anyone recommend any particular patterns or have any hints? I figure it will take me all summer to get my act together.

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Puck - Jun 2, 2005 6:18 pm (#2809 of 2981)

Lina, my little is also a cancer, and I am constantly cleaning little bits of paper off the rug since she learned to use scissors! I never realized this was her inner crab coming out! Luckily, she has thus far limited her cutting to scrap paper.

Lori, I have cards also, but they still frisked me. I guess in theory someone could blame the pacer for the detector going off, but then smuggle something else in. Just so your Mom knows she may be patted down.

Oh, so my son likes this cartoon called "Cyberchase". It's this great educational show that teaches math concepts. The math is over his head, but he enjoys the stories. Anyway, today the characters were solving fraction problems in this wizarding school known as "Frogwarts". The head wizard is a guy with a long beard. And, it's the first time I heard anyone on the show with a British accent. I was washing dishes and overheard some of the show, enjoying the whole reference to Harry Potter.

Long day. Early to bed.

Kathy

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dizzy lizzy - Jun 2, 2005 7:12 pm (#2810 of 2981)

Mandy: I board my dogs all the time when I go away. I leave them at the local vet clinic which has very basic but secure runs for the dogs. I think they make a lot of money out of boarding.

My dogs bark the whole time as they get over excited with everything that is going on. But if I was to go away and leave them at home, I'm sure I would end up with a noise pollution fine from the local council.

I'm feeling pretty crook today. Not sure why, but a bug has been going 'round town so that’s hopefully what I've picked up.

Off to read the threads and to finish that FF on the FFF on the lex.

Lizzy

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Marie E. - Jun 2, 2005 7:33 pm (#2811 of 2981)

My kids watch "Cyberchase" sometimes if we get home early enough. It won't happen much this summer since my hours are now 8:30-5:30. We started field trips this week, which is my favorite part of the summer. We have a really good group of kids-always a plus!

I'm finally going to see Star Wars tomorrow night. I am very proud of myself for actually acquiring a babysitter last week, rather than the night before I need one.

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Thora - Jun 2, 2005 7:36 pm (#2812 of 2981)

Accio Sirius- patterns by Simplicity are quick, easy, and cute too. I'm sure they have something, otherwise just watch out for anything that looks cool in the picture, trust me if it looks nifty it's a pain in the neck to sew. I wish I could tell you a pattern to try but I'm much more one for making my own or puting elements together from different ones. I keep around my mother's heavey plastic t-shirt and sweat pants patterns in various sizes and create from there, you can do anything with them (ie our costumes last halloween).

As I am about 400 post behind on my reading I thought I'd just jump back in here and catch up later.

I have missed the forum sooooo much while on vacation, it's so nice to be home.

Thora

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Denise P. - Jun 2, 2005 7:41 pm (#2813 of 2981)

Gina posted a fairly easy cloak pattern some time back. It is a Fellowship Cloak from LOTR but could be easily modified to be a Hogwarts robe.

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Ydnam96 - Jun 2, 2005 9:53 pm (#2814 of 2981)

Denise, I was just checking on Devin's website and I see that you and your family has had some great news! That is amazing! I hope that things continue in this direction!!!!

About the cat..Yes, the aggressiveness seems to coincide with the medicine...but there is a lot of other things going on that may be adding to the situation. I'm moving soon, so there is stuff being packed up which he doesn't like. There has been some random cats outside that have been bothering him. He hasn't felt well. So I think it's just been rough for him. I'm trying to baby him and play with him more and he'll be with the vet next week so maybe they can help me figure it out. Thanks for the advice on the boarding though. I am going to ask a lot of questions when I take him in, and I'm going to take in his favorite blanket and toy.

In fact he's meowing at me now so I should go. I hope everyone has a good Friday.

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Lina - Jun 3, 2005 12:20 am (#2815 of 2981)

Thank you, Mils, for comforting me about my "paper shredder". My sister remembered yesterday that two years ago her friend asked my daughter what she liked, expecting her to answer - chocolate or juice or something like that, and she replied "Cutting". She didn't take it seriously at that time. Puck, I feel better knowing that I'm not the only one with this problem.

Thora, I hope you had a great vacation. Although I can very well understand you about missing the Forum. I chat with you guys all the time in my mind. Then I write down on the Forum just about a tenth of that.

Mandy: Denise, I was just checking on Devin's website and I see that you and your family has had some great news! That is amazing! I hope that things continue in this direction!!!!

I second Mandy, Denise, that's great!

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CatherineHermiona - Jun 3, 2005 3:20 am (#2816 of 2981)

Thanks everyone that answered me on my last post (which, by the way, was few hundreds posts before).

I'm very happy because we are going to Fuzine this weekend again. But real reason why I'm even more happy is because my best friend (I will have to show her this message because she doesn't trust to me that she is my best friend) comes with us. We are going to have a great time.

My best friend that I mentioned before want to be a famous lawyer, married to a football player, live in America and go to Harvard. Pretty ambitious, ha?

Kate

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The giant squid - Jun 3, 2005 5:08 am (#2817 of 2981)

Elanor and Mills, you are both welcome. Hey, it's kinda fun to be able to be an insufferable know-it-all in this group--when it comes to Harry Potter I'm kinda the slow kid with the helmet.

Welcome back, Thora! How was your vacation? Did you see Star Wars?

Marie--actually planning ahead with the babysitter? Shocking! You keep this up & you'll lose your Slacker Mom status for sure.

--Mike

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Catherine - Jun 3, 2005 5:35 am (#2818 of 2981)

Hey, it's kinda fun to be able to be an insufferable know-it-all in this group--when it comes to Harry Potter I'm kinda the slow kid...—Mike

I can't decide if this is a compliment or not....

Accio Sirius, you definitely won't qualify for Slacker Momhood if you are already planning Halloween costumes! Good luck with sewing. I can honestly say I have never used a sewing machine, and, as a stated nearly a year ago on the Chat thread, can barely manage buttons.

Now, Mike, I can join the "slow kids." "

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Accio Sirius - Jun 3, 2005 6:53 am (#2819 of 2981)

Thanks for the info Denise and Thora. Catherine, I'm a novice when it comes to sewing, but it's one of those things I told myself I want to be able to do--you know, if I'm stuck on a deserted island that has electricity and a sewing machine! Buttons are another thing entirely. I actually purchased the Buttoneer from the As Seen on TV site a while ago. Big disappointment. I couldn't even load the cartridge. I have a friend who is constantly lured in by these "must have" products. I was sad to hear that the Space Bags weren't quite as miraculous as they appeared on TV! She now has them stored unused next to the Panini maker and food dehydrator.

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applepie - Jun 3, 2005 6:54 am (#2820 of 2981)

Welcome, Griselda Marchbanks! I hope you enjoy the forum.

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applepie - Jun 3, 2005 8:05 am (#2821 of 2981)

Happy Friday everyone! We had a baseball game last night which prevented me from posting, so I'm just catching up on reading everything and trying to respond a bit while at work.

Mandy, good luck bording your kitty. I have never had to do that with my dog or rabbit. I was always able to find someone to look after them, luckily. It does sound like the problems are a culmination of everything that is going on right now, so hopefully that will all sort itself out and your kitty will be back to his (her?) normal self.

Accio Sirius.......no way I could help you with sewing, sorry. I wish I could, but I have a hard time re-applying buttons. Good luck, and kudos to you for attempting the unknown....

Dizzy Lizzy, I hope you feel better. It's no fun to be sick. I've heard that laughter is the best medicine, so maybe we can tempt some of the people on the lexicon to keep you laughing....doesn't seem like a difficult task to me.

Thora, glad you had a safe trip, though I don't think we've been properly introduced. So, "Hi!"

Kate, your dreams are pretty ambitious, but I see no reason why they can't be achieved. Perseverence is key.

when it comes to Harry Potter I'm kinda the slow kid with the helmet. – Mike

Mike, if that is the case, I'm the one trailing behind you in the shadows, with her head down, and her fingers in her mouth.

I will be popping in and out all day, but I hope you all have a wonderful Friday and a very relaxing weekend.

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applepie - Jun 3, 2005 9:10 am (#2822 of 2981) Reply
Edited by Mare Jun 3, 2005 9:47 am

I just got an e-mail that is just hilarious. If anyone is interested in seeing the flash site, here it is...

It is someone's interpretation of what happens when you forget to shut down your computer at night. Just a friendly little battle between icons.

Hope it is ok to post the link...sorry if it isn't.

I did edit out the link. Your link was funny, applepie... but one of the other stories on the same site wasn't so appropriate.

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Professor V - Jun 3, 2005 9:22 am (#2823 of 2981)

applepie - that link was very cute, a good laugh - Thanks!

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Ydnam96 - Jun 3, 2005 9:27 am (#2824 of 2981)

applepie, that was cute I enjoyed it. In fact, I sent it to all my coworkers

I do know that the Forum has a position on posting links within your posts. I'm sure that if it is inappropriate I'm sure one of the mods will let you know. They are pretty quick about this stuff

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applepie - Jun 3, 2005 9:30 am (#2825 of 2981)

I thought of that after I typed it and wondered whether or not to go through with it. Glad you all enjoyed it.

Again....sorry if I was wrong in posting it.

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Kip Carter - Jun 3, 2005 9:38 am (#2826 of 2981)

applepie and Ydnam96, normally the Hosts discourage the posting of links to other sites because we have no control over what is provided at the other site; however I immediately checked out the link as soon as it was posted to determine if I needed edit the link. I thought that it was humorous enough and did not conflict with our guidelines.

There are times when a Host may not be available to quickly check out a link and that is one of the main reasons links are discouraged. I hope you both understand.

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applepie - Jun 3, 2005 9:42 am (#2827 of 2981)

Kip, I completely understand the reasoning behind this, and in no way want to compromise the privilege of being able to post on this forum. I appreciate your swift intervention, and am sorry if I caused you any inconvenience. Thanks so much!

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Marè - Jun 3, 2005 9:49 am (#2828 of 2981)

Kip, I did edit out the link. I always check the link, the site where it comes from and the other links on hat site. This site had 3 flash stories. One of them was not so appropriate.

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Springtime - Jun 3, 2005 9:50 am (#2829 of 2981)

that was just tooo cute. Edit: posted before I saw the link was taken out.

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Kip Carter - Jun 3, 2005 9:56 am (#2830 of 2981)

Marè, thanks for checking behind me. I missed the other two flash stories in my hurry to answer a phone call. That is just one of the reasons I am so proud of our Hosts. Even if one Host makes an error, another Host is there to straighten things out. My hat is off to you, Marè!

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Ydnam96 - Jun 3, 2005 9:57 am (#2831 of 2981)

Wow, you guys are fast Thanks for keeping the Forum the way it is!!

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applepie - Jun 3, 2005 9:57 am (#2832 of 2981)

Mare, sorry to be a bother. Thanks for your correction.

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Marè - Jun 3, 2005 10:04 am (#2833 of 2981)

Wow, you guys are fast

Ah yes, being a host of this forum comes complete with purple superhero cape with lime green dots so we can wizz through all the threads at high speed!! **cough cough**
:sigh: I wish, my computer was pretty slow today.

And I wasn't checking behind you Kip, I think we were just checking at the same time. But thanks for all the nice words.

And don't worry applepie, you're not a bother, the icon story was funny. (And now all the people who read all these posts are just dying to know what it was about... Awww)

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Good Evans - Jun 3, 2005 10:14 am (#2834 of 2981)

Evening all

well, my week is getting worse.

My Grandmother’s Funeral is set for next wednesday - and this is where I will sound really selfish, but I just can't believe my bad luck...... I had tickets for Guys and Dolls next wednesday, going with a friend who has been really ill and is now on the road to recovery. I just knew when my mum rang up last night that she was going to say wednesday. So I will be giving my ticket up the the mother of the other friend who was going with us. Yes, you've guessed it, it is the West End production starring Ewan McGregor, Jane Kakowski and Jenna Russell. Opened last week and I bought the tickets in March.

Obviously I will be at the funeral, and I don’t begrudge missing the show (not really) but I am really sad about missing my friends big day out after her op and just having a girlie day out. I will be honest I thought the day would cheer me up too.

One break this week - I found POA on CD at Amazon for £22. So that is due to be delivered tomorrow. How much do you want to bet it gets delayed in the post????????

Anyhow - keep smiling - its either that or go nuts!

Julie X

PS Mare - does that outfit come with the underwear on the inside or out??

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Catherine - Jun 3, 2005 10:29 am (#2835 of 2981)

Ah yes, being a host of this forum comes complete with purple superhero cape with lime green dots so we can wizz trough all the threads at high speed!! **cough cough** --Mare

Hey! I thought Prefect Marcus said, "No capes!"

But yes, Mare and Kip are pretty heroic.

My morning has been horrid. Our Shelter Director is out of town for the month (she's from Finland, and is visiting for a month), and naturally, when the boss is away, everything falls apart. In our case, it's the entire septic system for the facility. I just spent an hour on the phone discussing our sludge issue with the financial person.

Some genius, when the facility changed hands, removed the screens from the system, so that when the runs are hosed down, the drains clogged with dog hair. So a small thing like a screen which would have been pocket change at the hardware store has caused thousands of dollars’ worth of damage.

Not to mention that I will probably have to go out there this afternoon and deal with it because the financial director is newly pregnant and strong odors make her ill, and she was in tears about having to go back.

Today would be a good day for a bubble-head charm.

EDIT: Good Evans, best of luck to you.

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Good Evans - Jun 3, 2005 10:38 am (#2836 of 2981)

uurggh - Catherine - I do not envy you the sludge conversation, nor the exploration, sounds revolting!

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librarian314 - Jun 3, 2005 11:16 am (#2837 of 2981)

Hey all!

Accio Sirius! - Circular cloaks are pretty easy to make and are exactly what they sound like. There are some pretty good websites out there describing them. Just do a Google search on "circular cloaks" and the first hit has a decent explanation. If you use something like polar fleece, you don't even have to get anywhere near a sewing machine as it doesn't fray like woven wool would.

Hope everyone is having a nice day! Here in DC it's pretty soggy. There's been a fine mist all day long.

Y'all take care!

**michelle the librarian**

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KWeldon - Jun 3, 2005 11:16 am (#2838 of 2981)

Good Evans, I'm sorry to hear about your grandmother.

I posted this in the HBP thread, but TLC is reporting that two HBP books have been stolen and recovered.

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applepie - Jun 3, 2005 11:17 am (#2839 of 2981)

Good Evans & Catherine, sorry for your streak of bad luck.

My day has been pretty un-eventful thus far. I just got back from lunch with my better half, and am back at work now, hoping to get off early. I am thanking my lucky stars that next week we will be back to full office staff, and I will not have any extra duties forcing me to pull my hair out.

I am looking forward to the weekend and hope it will be un-eventful in a relaxing and productive sort of way. We have the usual Saturday baseball games and I have to "make groceries" but that is bare minimum compared to our normal weekend schedules, so I am welcoming the break.

Well, one last thing on my mind before I head to the posts.... 42 days, 42 days, 42 days!

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Catherine - Jun 3, 2005 12:04 pm (#2840 of 2981)

I got a little something in the mail today.

Thanks, Kim.

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CatherineHermiona - Jun 3, 2005 12:49 pm (#2841 of 2981)

Those are not my dreams. Those are dreams of my friend. I really hope her dreams will come true.

We don't have good soaps but series and TV shows are great. We have Our little clinic on Tuesday, Take it or leave it on Tuesday and Wednesday, Spives and princesses and Evening school on Friday. Now we have pleasant Friday evening watching TV. Hope you will have good time this evening too.

Good night!

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applepie - Jun 3, 2005 12:53 pm (#2842 of 2981)

Good night, CatherineHermiona. If this work day would ever end, I would have a good evening myself.

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fleur-de-lys - Jun 3, 2005 12:58 pm (#2843 of 2981)

I'm really too tired to post much today. Boo hoo, but I've been meaning to ask. Can someone please explain something to me that I saw, briefly, on the news the other night? What is up with this Cheese race I saw? People running down a steep hill, many of them falling on their faces or tumbling and bouncing (literally) down the incline. When I saw this, I said "Wait till I get on the forum." Then had to explain that there are a lot of Brits on the forum. Please enlighten me. It was a bit disturbing but terribly amusing to see. What is it all about?

Luv N Mush, Lori

ps: T Brightwater, I think the book you're referring to is "Love till Niagara Falls, Abby". It’s about a girl who has to go to camp all summer without her best friend. If that's the book you're thinking of, that's the book I got them from. I read it many times as a kid and still have it, I believe. I've kept most of my books from little on up. Its very hard for me to let a book go, even if I don't particularly care for it. Just ask the hubby.

Hope everyone's having a better day than I am. I need some rest! Have a great weekend, everyone!!!!

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Steve Newton - Jun 3, 2005 1:03 pm (#2844 of 2981)
Edited Jun 3, 2005 1:36 pm

It was a bit disturbing but terribly amusing to see. What is it all about?

Fleur, I think that just about sums it up. I'm not British, by 2 generations, so I guess I may be missing something, too.

Edit. Actually, as I now count, its 3 generations. My grandfather haled from Kidderminster.

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fleur-de-lys - Jun 3, 2005 1:10 pm (#2845 of 2981)

I'm glad it wasn't just me, Steve. Thanks. I get Monty Python, but I didn't get that.

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Ydnam96 - Jun 3, 2005 1:13 pm (#2846 of 2981)

Good Evans and Catherine, I'm sorry to hear things are not going well. Sending cheering charms and bubble head charms your way.

Cheese? Race? Hills? Sounds interesting. Of course, I think anything with Cheese is great. Sound a bit like Extreme Elimination Challenge. The Spike Channel plays it here in the US (or used to back when I had cable). It's an old show from Japan in the 80s I believe that has been dubbed in English and it's people doing extremely silly and painful things to themselves (obstacle course like stuff) so that their team can win. I loved watching it, it never failed to make me laugh.

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Loopy Lupin - Jun 3, 2005 1:25 pm (#2847 of 2981)

I got a little something in the mail today.

Thanks, Kim. --- Catherine

Hey!

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Lina - Jun 3, 2005 1:43 pm (#2848 of 2981)

Accio Sirius, I wish you luck with the cloak!

Marè: And don't worry applepie, you're not a bother, the icon story was funny. (And now all the people who read all these posts are just dying to know what it was about... Awww)

Yes, indeed. :brighteyes:

Good Evans, you might never find out why it was better for you not to go to that show Wednesday. Yet, maybe you will (find out).

Well, Catherine, to you I cannot say the same. Some strengthening charms and a Patronus against smells (pong) your way!

CatherineHermiona: We have Our little clinic on Tuesday, Take it or leave it on Tuesday and Wednesday, Spives and princesses and Evening school on Friday.

Now you know what I mean by "My Dudley daughter".

T Brightwater, I replied you.

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applepie - Jun 3, 2005 1:45 pm (#2849 of 2981)

Lina, if you would like the link, simply e-mail me and I will send it to you.

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Lina - Jun 3, 2005 1:46 pm (#2850 of 2981)

I will.

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Lupin is Lupin. Natch. - Jun 3, 2005 1:54 pm (#2851 of 2981)

I got a little something in the mail today.

Thanks, Kim.--- Catherine

Hey! ---Loopy Lupin

I'm sorry, Loopy, but they were freebies and I felt guilty enough asking for the second one and didn't want to push it. (The other one went to Denise). Besides, I don't believe you have any plans to attend The Witching Hour.

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applepie - Jun 3, 2005 1:58 pm (#2852 of 2981)

Loopy, I was feeling a bit like a red-headed step-child myself. But, I have no plans to attend The Witching Hour, so I guess I can't complain...

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Catherine - Jun 3, 2005 3:37 pm (#2853 of 2981)

To those who didn't get a handout on Witching Hour:

Loopy likes to pout. He's an only child (except for his SIX! dog siblings) and needs a lot of positive reinforcement. Way to say "Hey!" Loopy! Give Roscoe, Flash, Jesse, Daisy, Lulu and Cooter a big hug from me!

As for me, I only got sent the handout b/c I'm a major Slacker and Kim knows that I need a strong mentor to make decisions and make plans. As a longtime member on the Chat thread, Kim knows that some of us here founded "Procrastinators Anonymous" (membership is free, and wide open; join any time, day or night) and that she doesn't want me to screw this up.

So, I know that Mike and I are charter members of Procrastinators Anonymous, but I'm sure that, given that we don't get anything done, we could use more members.

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Ydnam96 - Jun 3, 2005 3:42 pm (#2854 of 2981)

Catherine, is there a goal or aim for you group? Do you have a manifesto? I only ask because it sounds like a group I would like to join, but you have to be careful these days about such groups if you do not do a little investigation. Also, how often are your meetings? I have a lot of time this summer dedicated to playing on the forum, so I'm not sure I would be able to make a lot of meetings

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timrew  - Jun 3, 2005 3:45 pm (#2855 of 2981) Reply
Edited by Denise P. Jun 3, 2005 10:58 pm

Loopy? Lighten up, mate!

Where are you, you blot on humanity?

Sorry about this Forum people........I'm just looking for my mate......

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Catherine - Jun 3, 2005 3:54 pm (#2856 of 2981)

Ydnam,

It's hard to answer your very intelligent questions because Procrastinators Anonymous haven't looked up any answers.

Also, we're still waiting for someone to take charge and proclaim a manifesto, which should be fabulous and wonderful, and better than any manifesto ever seen or written. Except we haven't written it yet.

We're too undecided to think about membership, so right now anyone who wants to be a procrastinator and anonymously so, can join.

As for meeting times, that has not yet been decided by anyone. We all have so many committments and things to do, so it's hard to make time to attend a meeting.

Long live Procrastinators Anonymous!

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Ladybug220 - Jun 3, 2005 4:21 pm (#2857 of 2981) Reply
Edited by Jun 3, 2005 4:22 pm

I have been meaning to join PA; however, I just haven't gotten around to it yet.

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Catherine - Jun 3, 2005 4:39 pm (#2858 of 2981)

We understand, Ladybug, we understand.

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Ponine - Jun 3, 2005 4:53 pm (#2859 of 2981)

Can I join Procrastinators Anonymous even if I am not anonymous anymore?? I came out of the closet years ago, and have been consistently referred to as the Queen of Procrastination for at least a decade (A bow to your Queen (when you get around to it, of course) would be appropriate... )

I am completely overwhelmed with all the posts in here, and I had (ironically enough) prepared a list of posts that I was going to answer specifically, but they are hopelessly outdated already... alas, earwax...)

First - Lori - YEY!!! My fingers and toes are aching from crossing them so long, but who cares - I am so glad to hear things are well.

Finn - I hope your Spanish final went well!

Mike - There is nothing more I would like than to discuss our alma mater's dubious logo - email me if you want!

Good Evans - I am so sorry - I lost both my wonderful, sweet grandmas in 2004, and even if I feel SO fortunate and blessed and lucky as I got to keep them until age 29, it still hurt. I still miss them, some days more than others, but I have taken to heart what my dad wrote his homesick exchange student daughter one spring.. "We can decide to stop missing each other, and start looking forward to seeing one another again instead". On most days, I can look forward to seeing them again now, but it takes some time...

Lina - Your 'region' has been mentioned quite a bit on our news these past days - I have little understanding of what, who, where, and why, but everytime I see it, I think of you and your family. I wish you all happiness and healing.

Elanor and Gina - I wish, so much, that I could be at Accio and cheer you on - I know it is an awful lot to ask, but do you think that some of it will be taped? I know I would love to see your presentations any way I can!

For everyone else - Have a great weekend, healing charms for kitty, cheering charms, butterbeer, hugs and a secret stash of fire whisky to those in need... hugs, Ponine

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Marie E. - Jun 3, 2005 5:40 pm (#2860 of 2981) Reply
Edited by Catherine Jun 3, 2005 5:45 pm

I got a disturbing phone call from my husband this afternoon. As I've mentioned before, my kitty is very old and has gotten into the habit of going to the bathroom in places other than her litter box. As a proud member of the procrastinator's club, I keep forgetting to make her an appointment at the vet. Well, my hubby called to tell he caught her going "potty" on my Harry Potter poster. Needless to say, I freaked out and immediately called to make her an appointment. Now I know what it takes to motivate me. It turns out the poster she ruined was just a Lego poster I was going to hang up just for fun. At least she has an appointment tomorrow morning.

EDIT: Marie et al, I posted here by mistake. Apologies.--Catherine

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Catherine - Jun 3, 2005 5:41 pm (#2861 of 2981)

(A bow to your Queen (when you get around to it, of course) would be appropriate... )

You may join whenever you choose. We don't have a ruling body as far as a I know, and being elected from outside (aka, the non-procrastinators) doesn't count.

We're very free-form about politics, as we've never decided which ruling body would suit us. Anyone can be Queen, as we don't keep track of genealogy. A simple declaration and intent to rule benignly and procrastingatngly will do, I suppose, if I only bothered to get in touch with the other members of the group....

EDIT: Marie has shown that pets motivate us to act. Best wishes, Marie. I meant to post this here, but accidently "edited" your post above, hence the extra comments. Very sorry.

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Puck - Jun 3, 2005 6:35 pm (#2862 of 2981)

Hope you all had a good day! It's finally warmed up, and the kids celebrated with a neighborhood water fight. Parker got some cool squirt guns for his birthday, and had much fun soaking the older kids. I never got to the grocercy store, as we were having too much fun enjoying the long awaited sunshine.

When is that JKR interview airing? Need to set my TiVo.

Accio, I usually go to Simplicity and Butterick websites. I find it easier to search on line and bring a pattern number to the store rather than search through all the books once you get there. Other than quilts, I stick to Halloween costumes, as clothes frustrate me, and I figure Halloween costume don't need perfection. Also, check to see if any local sewing shops have open classes where you can bring your own projects. That way they can walk you through any tricky parts.

Oh, where is it we go to get/post e-mail addresses? People keep mentioning it, and I have no clue.

Kathy

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Catherine - Jun 3, 2005 6:41 pm (#2863 of 2981)

Oh, where is it we go to get/post e-mail addresses? People keep mentioning it, and I have no clue. –Kathy

Puck,

Good question.

Click on a member's (or your own!) profile, and you will see one of two things. You may see that the member has chosen to cloak their email address in secrecy, or you may see an actual email address. Either way, it is understood that members do not abuse other members' addresses.

The fun thing is that you can write you own profile, tag line, mention your own home page, etc. Good possibliites to have fun with your own profile.

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Ydnam96 - Jun 3, 2005 6:50 pm (#2864 of 2981)

OH NO Marie! I'm glad that *something* motivated you to get your kitty to the vet. It's not a very good thing that it involved destroying Harry Potter paraphanalia. eeeek. But at least she is now going and you can see what is wrong!

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Puck - Jun 3, 2005 6:58 pm (#2865 of 2981) Reply
Edited by Catherine Jun 3, 2005 7:16 pm

Thanks Catherine! Now, where is this profile? (Not very computer literate. Amazing that I figured out how to join this forum without hubby's help.)

Kathy

edit: I found how to get there, but after I type the information it just disappears again. How do I make it stay? Do I click the okay box on the bottom of the page, because that seems to be for something else.

Puck, I'm not "computer literate" either, but if you make changes to your profile, you need to click "OK" to save it and make it so. Unless you click it, it will not count. Hope this helps. --Catherine

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Catherine - Jun 3, 2005 7:13 pm (#2866 of 2981)

Puck, for yourself:

Click on your underlined name to see how you look "in the mirror" to other members. This is what you do to everyone else to see what their email address (assuming they provide it) is.

BUT, to change you own profile, on the Forum home page, in the upper right hand corner of the big teal bar, click on "Change preferences"

This will take you to a page in which you can make/change an avatar, change your profile, tagline, whatever.

For me, I had some photos, saved small enough, that I used as an avatar. Other times, I haved "Googled Images" and gotten the "under 10K" images I need to use, since I have a premium membership with World Crossing.

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Finn BV - Jun 3, 2005 7:23 pm (#2867 of 2981)

Wow, just read through 48 posts…

Kathy, click OK at the bottom of the page. It applies to everything you do on that page. Then there's sort of a confirmation page, and click OK again. Also, I think I'm probably the only soul in the world who uses it () but everybody has an email @worldcrossing.com. For example, I'm fbv807@wordcrossing.com. Kathy, you would be puck@worldcrossing.com. To access your mail, click on, in the teal bar, "Your forums," and then click on "Read and send e-mail."

Ponine, thanks for the luck. I think I did really well. I got a 99.5% on the oral exam, which was half of the grade (don't ask why I lost that .5% ) Anyway, on Monday they have a final exam reading day where you can see your grades. That's cool – it's the first year they've done it.

A week from today (next Friday), my family and I are leaving on our trip to go the west of the US. We're doing a national parks tour, but more north, like Yellowstone, Grand Tetons, and Crater Lake. Last year we did Bryce, Zion, and lots more in Utah. Looking forward to it, the only thing is I'll be away from the forum for two weeks! I think I'll ignore the 1529 posts on the chat thread that I'll miss, but other than that I'll see if I can toddle through the rest of them… Last year, though, when we arrived in San Francisco to finish out the trip we bought some free AirPort service so my laptop could access online. Funny, that was when I really got hooked on Harry Potter. (Ok, here comes random story…)

We had bought this book earlier on the trip called "Muggles and Magic" and I had read all this cool stuff on the world of Harry. I had read the books before, and seen the movies, but never really been hooked like I am and you all are now. So, with that Internet access, I immediately went to harrypotter.com, which I had never been to before, and looked at many cool sites like that. (Unfortunately, the book didn't have the Lexicon or any other Floo Network sites , but I found those by myself )

So, sorry for the long post, and I hope I make it through those weeks without all my HP friends! Now, off to the threads (it's 10:23 at night and I should be in bed but, hey, it's Friday )!

Edit: cross-posted with Catherine.

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Chemyst - Jun 3, 2005 7:46 pm (#2868 of 2981)

Also, I think I'm probably the only soul in the world who uses it ( ) but everybody has an email @worldcrossing.com. [...] To access your mail, click on, in the teal bar, "Your forums," and then click on "Read and send e-mail." - fbv807

...  ...  ...  ...  I'm dumbfounded! (better than plain dumb, but not by much)  All right then, another email address for the Katie Couric Questions JKR suggestions. Why didn't I know this? Of course, I'd never have checked so it wouldn't have done any good for someone to try to use it. But still...

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Amilia Smith - Jun 3, 2005 7:50 pm (#2869 of 2981)

Finn: don't ask why I lost that .5%

My last semester of college, I handed in my Senior Thesis as my term paper for my History of Britain class. It was really quite the spectacular paper, all about the romanticizing of Bonnie Prince Charlie, complete with pictures (see avatar). I had been working on it for a year, and had three other professors reading it and making suggestions and corrections. Anyway, my History of Britain prof gave me 99, and then added in parentheses, "because no one should get a perfect score." (So humble, aren't I?)

There is a man just outside the window, here at the library, photographing the birds. I was quite amazed at first, as he was able to get the birds into the positions he wanted just by waving his arms. It was like magic. Then I realized that he was throwing bread crumbs to them . . .

On Mugglenet, I noticed that Desert Star is doing a Harry Potter spoof. Just when I move out of state! (In case you did not notice that news article, Desert Star is a local Utah playhouse that does spoofs.)

Squid Mike: I have some more Star Wars questions for you.

1) How were they able to build the Death Star II so fast? Am I right in assuming that it took 20 years to build Death Star I?

2) How was Padme elected Queen at 14? Who voted for her?

3) This one is more subjective. I find I do not care about Anikin like I care about Luke. Is this due to user failure (I grew up with Luke, have seen his movies more often, already know Anikin is going to become Darth Vader and therefor don't let myself get close to him), or system failure (Luke is just more likable than Anikin)?

Anyway, I have class in 10 minutes, so I'm off.

Mills.

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Acceber  - Jun 3, 2005 8:52 pm (#2870 of 2981)

I'm hitting Vermont for two weekends in a row in June.-Lupin Kim,  a while ago.

Where? When? My camp's in Vermont. You could come and visit.

Ack! The recipe called for 3 teaspoons of vanilla extract, he used 3 TABLESPOONS!-Denise, even longer ago.

That's like when I made pumpkin cookies and used the whole jar of pumpkin mix stuff instead of just a cup. They were mushy, but still edible. Mmmmmmm.....pumpkin cookies.....

No birthdays this week. But tomorrow (almost today) is the anniversary of PoA coming out in movie form. Happy Anniversary PoA!

My condolences Good Evans.

Organs--I know my mum has a card thing in her wallet that says she's an organ donor, but other than that I don't know very much about that topic. I also know that I can't donate blood because I'm a minor and way under the weight minimum, but I really would love to.

The only time I've ever made ice cream was at camp using one of those huge old-fashioned ice cream tubs, but boy, did it taste good!

One of my friends is on an Agatha Christie run. It's one of the only things she's read this entire school year. I have Hickory Dickory Dock on my bookshelf, which I plan to read when I'm done with Exodus.

Today, my whole grade was bussed to the high school for Step-Up Day. We listened to speeches for about an hour (yawn) before getting into groups and being led around the building. This place is huge. I plan on getting lost at least as much as Harry and Ron did their first week at Hogwarts. It's also disgusting and falling apart and OLD. It needs rennovation. Badly. At one point, a new building was going to be completed by the time I reached high school, but now it's scheduled to be done a few years after I leave . At night, we had Surf the Turf, where we swam in the pool and played basketball. Lots of fun. My only problem was that I'm blind as a bat without my glasses, so swimming could be a lot more fun if I wasn't so scared of contacts.

I probably should go to sleep now. I'll finish the rest of the Forum tomorrow. *huge yawn* Good night all .

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lemonbalm&bees - Jun 3, 2005 9:25 pm (#2871 of 2981)

Amilia, I know I'm not Squid Mike, but here's my take on why we don't care about Anakin:

1-We saw him over the course of his lifetime in only small spurts- lots of information missing. HIs personality kind of jumped around a lot from movie to movie, so much so that it wasn't even like watching the same character.

2-Um... he's Darth Vader. We're not really supposed to like him are we? I mean, now that we've been through this prequel thing, we can understand him, but that doesn't mean we have to like him. He was a jerk.

3-Look at the original trilogy: made in the seventies. All of those huge ships are just little toys in front of a black curtain- there was none of this computer generated stuff. Not that the correlation is direct, but I often find that the more bells and whistles a film has, the less the characters are developed.

4- Hayden Christenson.

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Elanor - Jun 3, 2005 10:46 pm (#2872 of 2981)
Edited Jun 3, 2005 11:26 pm

Ponine: "Elanor and Gina - I wish, so much, that I could be at Accio and cheer you on - I know it is an awful lot to ask, but do you think that some of it will be taped? I know I would love to see your presentations any way I can!"

It would be great if you would have been able to come Ponine! Thank you so much for wanting to cheer us on! I don't know about you Gina, but I think the closer I will be of the presentation day, the more I will feel like Ron before his first Quidditch match... I don't know if the presentations will be taped (a scary thought BTW!) but I have never heard of it, so I think it is rather unlikely (unless it is one those things Accio forgot to mention us...). But all the papers will be published together. I do hope they will publish the Snape trial as well!

fbv807, thank you so much about mentioning the email address we all have, I had absolutely no idea about it!

Amilia, I'm not Squid Mike either but I can't help answering SW questions (sorry for the length in advance ):

1) It is likely that the first Death Star took a lot more time to built because they had to create a technology for it that didn't exist before and may have not worked properly first. I imagine Tarkin coming with his big toy near a planet, threatening the inhabitants to smash their planet to smithereens if they don't subdue, giving the order to destroy it and only obtaining a small puff of green smoke... Pathetic... So, when they had mastered the technology eventually, it was easier to build another one. Besides, "Return of the Jedi" takes place 4 years after the first Death Star exploded and we don't know when they really started the construction of the second one, the fact that the rebels hear of it (and us with them) in Episode 6 doesn't mean the project didn't exist before. It could well have been started before the destruction of the first one, so to have two weapons of that type in the Galaxy.

2) Padmé, since she was a young child, was a student in a kind of "political program" on her world. If I remember well, she talks about it in one of the deleted scenes of Episode 2. She said she chose to serve her planet when she was very young. So I believe the Naboo chose their leaders amongst those politicians apprentices.

3) For my part, the conflict inside Vader that we see in episodes 5 and 6 is the most fascinating part of his life, maybe because the helmet makes it more subtle: Vader telling Luke he is his father (which means the fact must have tormented him) and holding him a hand out, Vader saying "it is too late for me my son"... But I really liked to see his transformation in episodes 2 and 3 and I think Hayden Christensen did a rather good work here. Actually, I'm going to watch Episode III for the second time tonight, he, he...

But before that, I have a very busy day ahead of me, beginning with a few errands before working on the paper again, I really have fun writing it! Have a great day/night everybody! I'm sending all the comforting charms I know to the ones who need some.

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dizzy lizzy - Jun 3, 2005 11:26 pm (#2873 of 2981)

what's all this about an email address???

**goes to investigate...**

**Comes back shaking head slowly*...now why didn't I see that before I signed up to my freebie email ???

Thinks some more...hey maybe its only been up since premium membership came in?

any clues anyone?

Lizzy

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septentrion - Jun 4, 2005 12:01 am (#2874 of 2981)

Hello all ! Good saturday !

Elanor, don't forget about your moral support ! And I'm for Gina too : great Snape's defense you have written. Can't wait for July...

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TwinklingBlueEyes - Jun 4, 2005 12:03 am (#2875 of 2981)

Nothing to do with premium membership, perk of being family...

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Lina - Jun 4, 2005 2:30 am (#2876 of 2981)

Oh, Ponine, you left me imagining what are the news you hear about my country. Maybe it's better if you don't understand. But it's nice to feel thought of.

Marie, I hope your cat gets better soon.

Finn, I'm glad you are going to have a great trip with your parents! It sounds wonderful and I'm sure you will have a very good time in spite of two weeks without the Forum. Oh, enjoy and make some good photographs!

Chemyst: Why didn't I know this?
I found about it only recently, when my daughter started to post. I tried to figure out how can you log off the forum and let someone else log on. you can do it by clicking on the "your forums" link. There is the link "Check your mail". I was just surprised, how could I check my mail?

Acceber, nice to "hear" from you again! Don't worry about the old school, the company is what matters. And the youth. So, I'm sure you will have a good time in the new school.

Hope everybody is having a nice weekend!

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Elanor - Jun 4, 2005 4:28 am (#2877 of 2981)

Septentrion: "Elanor, don't forget about your moral support !" I don't forget it! Actually, I'm writing the paper imagining only forum members in the room on the presentation day, it motivates me a lot! And I know you won't throw dungbombs at me if you don't like it...

I too can't wait to hear Snape's trial, it should be great, and to meet you all and discuss together for hours and hours. What a fantastic summer it will be!

Audrey **who should go back to work...**

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Lupin is Lupin. Natch. - Jun 4, 2005 6:13 am (#2878 of 2981)

I'm hitting Vermont for two weekends in a row in June.---Me

Where? When? My camp's in Vermont. You could come and visit.---Acceber[

Becca, I'll be in Woodstock. The first weekend is with my husband and the kids. Did you know about the Queechee Air Balloon Festival? I didn't and I can't wait to see it.

The second weekend is with my girlfriends, we've known each other since we were twelve (although, technically, they've known each other longer since their mothers shared a hospital room when they were born. Again we'll be in Woodstock but this time we'll be hitting the shops!

Where is your camp? I thought it was in New York?

I'm just hoping the rain holds out for both weekends. Today is gorgeous and we're heading for the beach. Wingarsheek here we come!

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Good Evans - Jun 4, 2005 6:28 am (#2879 of 2981)

Ponine - that was really a beautiful thought - thank you, if you dont mind I think I might adopt that one from you.

Lina - that made me think too - you a probably right - there is always a reason that things happen as they do.

Fleur (Lori) - Cheese Rolling - this is a somewhat mad ancient festival that takes place every year in Coopers Hill in Goucestershire. A 7lb double gloucester cheese is pushed down a 200 yard (nearly vertical)hill and those that follow it run, jump tumble etc in order to be the first to catch the cheese or pass the finish line. broken bones and strains are not surprising quite common. The winner keeps the cheese!!!!

The history isn't really known other than it is at least 200 years old and could be part of ancient midsummer night rituals, or fertility or just someones idea of a bit of fun. Clearly dangerous but very exhillerating. Anywhey (sorry!!) you can find out more by doing a search on cheese rolling. I won’t post a link but the BBC has some good features on it.

With regards to Why???? Well we are English and that should be reason enough

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CatherineHermiona - Jun 4, 2005 6:46 am (#2880 of 2981)

My mother is a bit aweless, isn't she? But that is okay, everyone has faults and virtues.

We are having a great time here in Fuzine. Riding a bike is sometimes a bit tiring but fun. We are going to Mrkopalj this afternoon with bikes. We (me and Martina) were going to the attic and there are some really interesting stuff: few prams, one crib, few books, few things that I don't know how to tell (in English). All in all, great.

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Thora - Jun 4, 2005 7:21 am (#2881 of 2981)

Squid/Mike- No, didn't see Star Wars, to be honest I was a fan until I read about the paduan slaying, now I'm hardly interested... but I did think of you several times while in Vegas.

Accio Sirius- Hey no nocking space bags, the new travel bags were the only reason I had any dry clothes at the start of my trip.

Marie E- I just about died when you mentioned the ruined poster, no giving me a heart attack before the series is finished and read

Those who are interested in my vacation- The 3 kids (age 4 and under) did well traveling after the first 2 days, they kind of resigned themselves to the fate of endless driving. We got to Arizona on Monday, spent a few lovely days in Yuma with all our friends down there.

Then we went to caravan up to Circus Circus in Las Vegas and blew the engine on Mr. Thora's work car, it was the most convenient in-conveniece ever. Our friend's car fit all 9 of us and our luggage. So we left the dead car in Lake Havasu (love that place, the old London bridge is there) and finished the trip.

Then Mr. Thora's company brought up a replacement car from Pheonix on our last day in Vegas, and we made it to Logan Utah by midnight-ish. We went to the Zoo with a friend's family and our son decided the guard rails on the bridge were monkey bars (just as I went to take a picture of the Bald Eagle) so he flipped head-first into the duck poop and rocks. 5 scalp stitches later he is still not wise about what he climbs on, sigh. My youngest caught a virus from my husband and spent the next few days surprising us with runny gifts... bless her. So we used the excuse to spend a few extra days in Utah. Thanks to memorial day we had the time. I was very happy to find that my best friend from when I was "knee high to a grasshopper" is a pottie too, so it made the lack of forum a bit more tolerable as I was able to catch her up on all the rumors.

I've been so busy the last few days that I'm afraid I've been quite grumpy with everyone for cutting into my HP time. Every second that ticks by brings me closer to the release and I haven't started my re-read yet! ARRRRGGGGGHHHHHH!!!

Anyhow, butterbeers all around, and where do I find Gina's defence of Snape? I REALLY want to read it.

Thora

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Marè - Jun 4, 2005 7:24 am (#2882 of 2981)

Elanor, don't forget about your moral support ! I don't forget it! Actually, I'm writing the paper imagining only forum members in the room on the presentation day, it motivates me a lot! And I know you won't throw dungbombs at me if you don't like it...

Nope, we won't. We might feed you a canary cream for no reason what so ever, but that will be the worst.
I wish I had a camera, so that I could tape all the performances. I will at least borrow a digital camera. I think I can make mini movies with that as well.

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Phoenix song - Jun 4, 2005 7:46 am (#2883 of 2981)

Hello everybody! I've missed a few days because I've been working on creating these icing flowers for the wedding cakes. The royal icing flowers have to be made ahead of time because they're tedious, time-consuming, and need to dry before decorating.

I'm afraid that in my brief absence there have been nearly 300 posts made on this thread alone. **Gasp!!** Please forgive me for skipping ahead and giving a general greeting of well wishes and best luck all around!

Has everybody read on the Leaky Cauldron about how these 2 guys stole copies of the HBP and tried to sell them to a reporter? They were both arrested and there are 2 copies being kept in a secure location somewhere. (Yeah, right, somebody's reading them!). But the stupefying thing to me is that before it was over the thief shot at the reporter trying to get the books. I want my copy as much as anybody, and more than some. But I think that I'll wait until July 16th, thank you very much, if I'm going to have to dodge bullets to gain a copy!

Have a great weekend everybody! I'm off to rush to the store for more powdered sugar for the wedding cake! (Or as we say here in the South... "I'm fixin' teh go teh de store."

Barbie

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Catherine - Jun 4, 2005 8:20 am (#2884 of 2981)

Enjoy your weekend, everyone. I will be in Virginia visiting family, but I know that most of the places we stay, I will have access to a computer, so hopefully I can stay current.

**waves to everyone**

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Lina - Jun 4, 2005 8:36 am (#2885 of 2981)

Thora, Gina's defence is in the "Snape" thread, where else?

Hey Barbie! I was wondering whether to ask about you or not, but I supposed that you must be busy, so better not disturbed. Does it mean that you are done with the flowers? As a matter of fact, you do have to be organized to do such a big cake. I'll keep thinking of you. Just make sure to let us know when to cast the Stayus Togetherus charm!

Have a wonderful weekend Catherine. I have let my hubby take care of the children today. It is so peacefully inside....

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Denise P. - Jun 4, 2005 8:36 am (#2886 of 2981)

Psst...Kim! I got mail! Thanks so much!

Last night I spent doing Relay for Life with our Cubs and our sponsor. It is a fundraiser for the American Cancer Society. As a survivor, Devin was presented a medal by the mayor (all survivors present get a medal, Devin was the youngest there) and interviewed by the local paper. His picture and the article were in today's edition. We walked the track and the kids pooped out by about 11 pm. I stayed until after midnight before packing it in. It was a lot of fun.

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Acceber  - Jun 4, 2005 9:05 am (#2887 of 2981)

Kim, my camp is near Rutland, VT, a not-so-far drive from Woodstock. Camp starts June 26. I hope that's one of the weekends you're in Vermont.

~*goes back to lurking*

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GryffEndora - Jun 4, 2005 9:49 am (#2888 of 2981)

fbv807 - thank you for telling me how to access the world crossing e-mail. I'm here more than anywhere else so I just changed my e-mail. Anyone who wants to drop me a line feel free!

Barbie - I was watching a bit of Emeril Live last night and he had a guest chef with him. She was teaching him how to decorate cakes. I came in while he was trying to learn how to crumb coat. Needless to say it was a hoot. Later she taught him how to make "Mar-zee-pan" (as pronounced by Mr. Legasse) fruit. She showed a few beautiful cakes with drop string work and intricate piping techniques. She even had a cake in a case that was, I think 15-20 thousand dollars. I thought of this when I read about your royal icing flowers. You certainly have one up on Emeril and I know you will end up making a gorgeous cake! Good Luck!

I was going to ask about joining Procrastinators Anonymous but it seems that that discussion has ended. Oh well, I guess it can wait until later.

I hope everyone is having a wonderful weekend. I'm certainly enjoying the gray skies and the rain! You'd think the bad weather would send more people shopping but noooooo. FYI: I work retail and work every Saturday. Usually bad weather means more customers, but apparently not today.

I manage an art gallery in a mall down the hall from a Barnes & Noble. We are planning a Harry Potter themed exhibit for the months of June & July if we get artwork submitted from our artists. I'm keeping my fingers crossed and will try to post images when they come in. My job has perks! Two years ago I got to help judge the broomstick decorating contest at the Harry Potter Party!

Well off to the threads!

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Good Evans - Jun 4, 2005 10:34 am (#2889 of 2981)

Thora - your holiday sounds great and the kids were really good too - well done you, that couldn't have been easy. Being English when I went to Lake havasu it was a quaint home from home, but that was back in the 70's. If they haven't updated the style it would look quite alien now I suspect!!

Barbie - I'm glad that wedding cake is going well, it is a mammouth project!

i'm off to post now!

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Lupin is Lupin. Natch. - Jun 4, 2005 11:13 am (#2890 of 2981)

Kim, my camp is near Rutland, VT, a not-so-far drive from Woodstock. Camp starts June 26. I hope that's one of the weekends you're in Vermont.---Acceber

Rebecca, Looks like you'll be heading up as I'm heading home. And I do know where Rutland is, not too far at all. It's absolutely beautiful up there. How long have you been going to camp? I never went to a summer camp myself, but one of the friends I'll be seeing that weekend did. I'll have to find out the name.

I got to do my errands in the Jeep with the top down and after a month of rain, boy! was that fun! Now, off to the beach!

[Denise, I'm glad you got it. You would have loved the shop I picked it up in. They even had wands! ]

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Madam Pince - Jun 4, 2005 11:41 am (#2891 of 2981)

Thora, I hope you understand the context in which I mean this, but your son's scar is really cool! From what I can see of it in your avatar, it looks very Harry Potter-ish! (Naturally I am very sorry that he fell and had to get stitches and all that, but still... if he had to get stitches, those he got are pretty cool!)

Good luck on the icing flowers, Barbie! I actually liked flower-making best of all parts of cake decorating. The drop-string work that GryffEndora mentioned is something I found nigh-unto impossible to do. It's very difficult to keep those strings uniform in size and spacing -- ugh!

I am finding it very hard to feel sorry for that reporter who got shot at while trying to "obtain" the stolen copies of HBP. Yeah, right -- he was going to return them. Ha!   Let's hope all involved in that caper get stuck in Azkaban being guarded by dementors. (or have detention with Dolores -- which would be worse?)

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Good Evans - Jun 4, 2005 11:48 am (#2892 of 2981)

hee hee madam Pince - couldn't agree more

I've just finished watching tonights' Dr Who -(Daleks next week, yeay!!) and I am more firmly convinced that Annette Badland will make a great Umbridge, and shall post so on the cast thread later. - Just thought I' d mention it !!

Julie

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GryffEndora - Jun 4, 2005 12:52 pm (#2893 of 2981)

Too bad the new Dr. Who isn't on BBC America. Or it is and I haven't found it yet.

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Cornelia - Jun 4, 2005 1:41 pm (#2894 of 2981)

Hallo everybody!

I just visited the New York Times homepage and discovered that they put the Crossword puzzles online. Does anybody know if they will put the HP Puzzle online? (Would be good, I wouldn´t have to ask my hubbys boss to ask her former co-workers in NY to get me one...)

I hope your weather is better than ours! Have a nice Saturday/Sunday!

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GryffEndora - Jun 4, 2005 1:44 pm (#2895 of 2981)

Cornelia - Is there possibly a local paper in your area that carries the New York Times Crossword? In the Twin Cities the Star Tribune carries it. I'm so happy I started receiving the Sunday Paper!

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Cornelia - Jun 4, 2005 1:48 pm (#2896 of 2981)

Sadly the only Newspaper in English here is the Baltic Times and I doubt that they have the Crossword...but thanks!

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GryffEndora - Jun 4, 2005 1:53 pm (#2897 of 2981)

Oops, sorry Cornelia, sometimes I forget that I'm talking to people all over the world. You all seem so close to me. I carry you around with me everyday. You must all live where I live.

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Cornelia - Jun 4, 2005 1:58 pm (#2898 of 2981)

It´s a small world and a great community we live in...

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Marie E. - Jun 4, 2005 2:19 pm (#2899 of 2981)

Kitty's appointment went fine and, like I suspected, she has an UTI (urinary tract infection). The vet also had some other concerns so I'm bringing her back next Saturday for bloodwork. He also found that she has a slight heart murmur now but he said that was common in older cats. He couldn't get over how little she is and that she only weighs 4 lbs. She maxed out at 7 lbs about 11 years ago so she's never been a big kitty. My friend has a cat that is 22 lbs and he looks like a big fur pillow with paws. Heehee.

The vet gave me a sample of these amazing things called pill pockets. My cat hasn't needed meds for many years so I don't know how long they've been on the market. It's a little cat treat with a whole in the side so you can push the pill in. In theory your cat gobbles up the treat and doesn't notice the pill. In her younger days I think Samantha might have eaten the treat and spit out the pill but today she just swallowed it right up.

My hubby is sick today so we've spent a quiet day at home. It's a bit rainy and windy out so I've let the girls enjoy a day of being couch potatoes (usually I'm quite vigilant about getting them outside).

And, I saw Star Wars last night. There's been a lot said so I won't go into details or analysis, but in defense of the dialogue (hears snorts and snickers from the crowd) I did like the exchange between Anakin and Padme where he says something like "You are so beautiful" and she says "Only because I'm so in love", thus proving I am a massive sap when it comes to movies.

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Thora - Jun 4, 2005 4:16 pm (#2900 of 2981)

Thora, I hope you understand the context in which I mean this, but your son's scar is really cool! From what I can see of it in your avatar, it looks very Harry Potter-ish! (Naturally I am very sorry that he fell and had to get stitches and all that, but still... if he had to get stitches, those he got are pretty cool!)- Madam Pince

Hee hee, why do you think I took the picture? The stiches are up top, the dark spot where the hair is parted, but the bruise that zig-zagged through two scratches was quite impressive in my mind. Too bad it's gone now.... sigh. My friend's son, who is 2 months older than mine, has dark hair that stands up in back, she tells me he likes to put on a fingerless glove and pretend he's Harry. So I called them both Harry for a few days.

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lemonbalm&bees - Jun 4, 2005 5:17 pm (#2901 of 2981)

WHOA! I didn't know I got HBO! Off to watch Prisoner of Azkaban. What a pleasant surprise.

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The giant squid - Jun 4, 2005 5:17 pm (#2902 of 2981)

is there a goal or aim for you group? Do you have a manifesto?

You know, I've been meaning to get around to that...

Squid Mike: I have some more Star Wars questions for you.—Mills[

Elanor did a pretty good job of answering those, even the Death Star one (which, honestly, had me wondering too). As for not liking Anakin, well...he's the bad guy, really. We're not supposed to like him that much. Pity him, maybe but not like.

Kitty's appointment went fine—Marie

Give her a scritch between the ears from me.

--Mike

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Amilia Smith - Jun 4, 2005 6:33 pm (#2903 of 2981)

Thanks for answering all of my Star Wars questions for me, Lemonbalm&bees, Elanor, and Squid Mike. I probably shouldn't keep on about Star Wars here, but you are all so knowledgeable. :-) On that vein . . . do you think Anakin would have been a more sympathetic figure if we had seen Episodes I, II, and III first, and didn't know he was going to become Darth Vader?

Darth Vader side track: When I was a kid, I had a Darth Vader night light. I thought it was the height of cool, but my Mother thought it was a very odd marketing stratagem, to have Darth Vader as something that was supposed to comfort children.

Lemonbalm&bees: I read on the introduction thread (welcome, BTW) that you are planning to be a band teacher. Some advice that you've probably heard before, but I thought I'd reiterate it. Wear earplugs. My Dad is a band teacher, and after 25 years of teaching beginning band, he is starting to go deaf. He has a constant ringing in his ears, and can no longer hear high pitched noises. When the alarm on his watch goes off, we have to tell him, he can't hear it. So, it really does happen. Be warned, and wear earplugs. :-)

I have been plugging away at my Russian self-help project, and I learned a really cool new word today! The word for curiosity is a compound word that translates literally (I think, anyway) as "love to know." Is that not the perfect way to describe curiosity?

Mills.

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fleur-de-lys - Jun 4, 2005 6:34 pm (#2904 of 2981)

Way to say Hey!" Loopy! Give Roscoe, Flash, Jesse, Daisy, Lulu and Cooter a big hug from me!"—Catherine

Gee, can we guess who's a BIG Dukes fan? 'Cept, I'm drawing a blank on Flash. Perhaps Loopy had a lapse and flashed to another show? NAH, Loopy would never be caught doing that. There must be some explanation.

Catherine, sign me up for Procratinators Anonymous. In college, I always used the excuse that I worked better under pressure. Now I come right out and admit it. I am LAZY!!!!!!

Good Evans, thanks for the clarity. I had forgotten I posted about the Cheese Race. Its a very interesting tradition, especially since its survived so long. We have some weird traditions here too. Not 200 years old, but in Philly we have Wing Bowl every year. Its a really odd and (to me) utterly disgusting eating contest. How many how wings can you eat in a certain amount of time. You have to perform some amazing feat to get into Wing Bowl and you wouldn't believe what some people do. This year, one guy ate an entire Yankee jar candle, baby powder scent to get in. YUCK! But the hubby loves it and follows all the pre-event news every year. Yippee, skippee! As to "why" for this...hey, its men...I think that says it all.

I wanted to post this on Friday, but was too tired so...W00T, the Phillies won!!!!! We went to the game Thursday nite, nice surprise, and it was a good game. Its always a good game when they win. But I've been wanting to use the whole "W00T" thingy, but hadn't had the chance. So I hope I used it in the correct context. Anyway, the Phillies won...W00T, W00T, W00T!!!!! Watching Billy Wagner pitch to close the game is amazing! And the munchkin always loves the Phanatic. He's cool. But enough baseball.

Hope everyone is having a good weekend. I'm feeling much better than I was on Friday. I think things are starting to settle down a bit. Hope I haven't jinxed myself saying that. The last thing I need is to wake up in a leg-locker curse before church tomorrow. Tee hee. Talk to ya all soon.

Luv till Bear Mountain has Cubs, Lori

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Denise P. - Jun 4, 2005 6:40 pm (#2905 of 2981)

do you think Anakin would have been a more sympathetic figure if we had seen Episodes I, II, and III first, and didn't know he was going to become Darth Vader?

Well, I am not sure how much my dislike of Anakin stems from the actors or the way he was portrayed. I found him to be a petulant, snotty, arrogant, egocentric brat in Eps I, II and III. He was a perpetual 8 year old with his whining so I didn't feel much sympathy for him but felt for those who had to deal with him.

Procratinators Anonymous - I have been meaning to join this for a few months now. Maybe tomorrow, after all, tomorrow is another day.

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Doris Crockford - Jun 4, 2005 6:41 pm (#2906 of 2981)

Hi everyone!

I am absolutely exhausted right now. Last night was prom, so naturally, I went to sleep for about 2 hours at 7:30 this morning. But prom was a lot of fun, even though I didn't dance and the music kinda sucked. The after party was a lot of fun though, since it was a bunch of us just hanging out at someone's house.

Okay, I gotta go now (even though this post was really short). My dad has the Dalek episode of Doctor Who on tape (the one that aired about a month ago on CBC), so we're going to watch it.

Bye!

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GryffEndora - Jun 4, 2005 6:58 pm (#2907 of 2981)
Edited Jun 4, 2005 7:48 pm

fleur-de-lys - Gee, can we guess who's a BIG Dukes fan? 'Cept, I'm drawing a blank on Flash.

I think Flash was Roscoe's dog.

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Julia. - Jun 4, 2005 7:31 pm (#2908 of 2981)

Good evening everyone!

Oh man, it's absolutely beautiful out here! The weather really is perfect, if only there were a baseball game to go to! If it weren't for the four hour nap I took this afternoon, I would have been out there all afternoon.

On the Star Wars front, the liking Anakin question is a fascinating one. Like Denise, I found him to be petty, arrogant and obnoxious. However, I did get drawn into the story, and I just found him fascinating. I was with him in the beginning, but as Episodes II and III progressed, I was slowly backing away, and becoming less and less fascinated. When the, shall we say, "event" with Master Windu and the Emperor happened, I was out of there, and really ready for him to snuff it. It actually, to give the English Major explanation for it, fit in perfectly with the Shakespeare model of tragedy. It was just like watching a train wreck.

YES!!! Yankees finally won a game!

Hmmmmm, I think I'd like to join PA, but I haven't gotten around to it. Perhaps at some point, eventually...

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lemonbalm&bees - Jun 4, 2005 7:39 pm (#2909 of 2981)

Amilia- thanks for the concerned message. Yes, hearing loss is something we musicians fear above all else. You can bet that if the drumline ever has to have an indoor sectional rehearsal, my ears will be plugged! Always glad to hear of someone who has family in music education. Mostly because it gives the rest of us hope that it is still possible to have a life outside of your job!

A question just for you: if Amilia is in fact your real name, what are its roots and meanings? My little sister goes by that name, but spell it Amelia. As I am very interested in names, I'm curious to hear where yours comes from.

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Amilia Smith - Jun 4, 2005 7:55 pm (#2910 of 2981)

Amilia is indeed my real name. I haven't the imagination to come up cool pseudonym. Unfortunately, I haven't got any interesting stories to go with it either, other than my Mother's theory that with a last name like Smith, you can't have a common first name. They got into genealogy and family names about four years after I was born, so I could tell you stories about all of my brothers' and sisters' names, but not mine. My folks just liked the way the name sounded, and my Mom thought that was the way it was spelled. She offered to get the spelling legally changed for me when I was in High School, but by then I had gotten used to and quit caring about being misspelled. And now, I kind of like it. It's different, and has something of a symmetry and rhythm to it, with the two "i"s.

It's interesting to hear different views of Anakin. I'm going to have to think about your Shakespeare analogy, Julia.

Mills.

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Julia. - Jun 4, 2005 8:25 pm (#2911 of 2981)

According to my baby names book Amilia means "Latin, 'Amiable.' Also possible variant spelling for Amelia or Emilia, though it comes from a different root than the latter."

Hope that helped, and yay for the Shakespeare model of tragedy. My Professor would be so proud.

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Amilia Smith - Jun 4, 2005 8:27 pm (#2912 of 2981)

Amiable . . . I like that! Thanks.

Mills.

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fleur-de-lys - Jun 4, 2005 8:32 pm (#2913 of 2981)

Gryffendora, THAT'S RIGHT!!!! I completely forgot. How could I forget Flash? I am so embarrassed. I guess Loopy knows what he's talking about after all. I still can't believe I forgot Flash. He was the best! I can sleep easy tonight knowing that Flash is not forgotten.

Luv N Mush, Lori

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Phoenix song - Jun 4, 2005 9:09 pm (#2914 of 2981)

Hello everybody! I see that you've all been busy posting while I've been out fighting the crowds and the miserable, sweltering heat while grocery shopping today! Let's see if I can remember all that I wanted to say...

*Lina, please don't ever feel like you can't disturb me. I always have time for hellos from my Forum Friends! The cake flowers are all but done. I think that I'm ready to move on to the next phase of this cake project!

*GryffEndora, I know what you mean about not even thinking about how far apart we all live. A few months ago, one of my sisters dropped over to visit. I was finishing up some e-mails to a few Forum buddies, Elanor (from France) and Round Pink Spider (from Minnesota). I'm from Louisiana. My nosy sister just had to know who I was writing, about what, and where they're from. It really hit me how far apart we all are when her eyes popped out at the thought that I actually talk to people from "Up North" and "Foreign" countries. She wouldn't have been more surprised if I had told her that I was sending e-mails to Jupiter!! I truly feel so enriched by my connections with everybody, and don't give much of a thought anymore about how far apart we all are. Belonging to this Forum has really taught me that, at heart, people are essentially the same. We all want the same things for ourselves and for our families. It is only space and borders that really divide us.

Thora, I got quite a chuckle out of your son's lightning bolt scar. I hope that if I ever receive a scar on my forehead, that it will be much like that one as well. That reminds me, I don't remember who it was, but when I first joined the Forum somebody told about their child cutting his forehead on the corner of a desk and how it left a jagged scar. I remember laughing so hard because she said that they renamed the desk "Voldemort" because it had "marked the boy as it's equal." I hope that somebody can remember that story, because it's going to drive me crazy trying to remember who posted it!

My husband and I were discussing how unique it would be to have an authentic lightning bolt scar on your forehead, and wondering whether anyone has ever gotten one tatooed. This led us into an interesting discussion on the wide assortment of tatooes that he sees in his travels. Do you know, that he actually saw, in person, somebody that had the word "STUPID" tatooed right across their forehead last week? It was in big, black, calligraphied letters. I asked him if he got up the nerve to ask the guy about his unusual "markings", he said that the guy didn't seem to be the type that would "welcome personal questions." I teased him about being a chicken, but he probably had a point there. A person bold enough to get a tatoo like that is probably not a person to mess with! Well, at least I know that there's one person that can't use the line: "Do I look like I've got 'STUPID' tatooed across my forehead or something?"

Madam Pince, I agree about the flower making being the best part of cake decorating. I love to make the flowers as well. I'm afraid that I'm a bit out of practice, though. I haven't really made any cakes since last year, because so much of my time since then was taken up helping my father in his last months. I'm quite grateful that my future sis-in-law didn't ask for drop string garlands. I'm going to have to make tripled ruffled garlands, which are difficult enough to space consistently. But those drop string swags can be so terrible! I don't mind making them, but they break off so easily in our high-humidity weather. They're just not worth it in my opinion! I'm estimating that I'll need about 300 forget-me-nots and apple blossoms, so that I'll have plenty for breakages and repairs. They're all ghastly white, of course, since she doesn't want any color on or anywhere near the cake. I'd just love to make them in pretty pale, pastel colors, but it's not my call.

Well, I hope that everybody forgives me my long post. I just had so much to say! I hope that you all have good nights!
Barbie

Edited for clarity purposes! Sorry!

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Julia. - Jun 4, 2005 9:54 pm (#2915 of 2981)

*waves to Barbie* I know exactly what you mean, it's hard to believe just how close this forum brings us. We really are a family around here, and it really doesn't feel like we're as far away as we all are. I've got friends here who can't believe that thanks to Harry Potter I've got friends in California, Louisiana, Texas, Spain, France, Croatia, Norway, and Maldives just to name a few. *hugs and butterbeers to my Forum family!!*

Oh man Barbie, that is quite possible the funniest thing I've heard all day, and that's including something about a flying cat.

I should really go to sleep now. I'm going into New York with my friends tomorrow for the Salute to Israel Parade. I'm all excited, I get to be on a float!!

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Lina - Jun 4, 2005 11:20 pm (#2916 of 2981)

Cornelia: It´s a small world and a great community we live in...

Yes it is. And ain't it great? Our tv reporters, when going abroad, keep asking passengers "What do you know about Croatia?" And people answer so many different things, like former Russian country and so on. And I keep imagining them running into a Forum member who answers : "Oh, yes, I have friends there!"

What a great invention, pill pockets! We have always been giving the medicines to our dogs by force. If you don't put the medicine deep enough in their mouth, they won't swallow. Mixing it with the food didn't help either, so I believe that this pockets wouldn't work either. But I believe that using force with dogs is simpler than with cats. Once my sister's dog (who is at least 30 kg) took chocolate from my daughter's (who was 3 or 4 at the time) hand and she grabbed the dogs mouth screaming "Give me back my chocolate!" And the stupid dog, who didn't have to attack her, just to walk away, stood there whining an waiting for someone to save her.

Barbie, please, don't take my words too hard, you know I'm not so good in picking them. I knew that "disturbing" was not a good word but it would take me too long to think of a better one. I believe you will feel much better when the wedding will be over. And as much scary it might sound that the wedding day is coming closer every day, but the day after the wedding is coming closer as well. This is the thing that usually comforts me.

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Elanor - Jun 4, 2005 11:55 pm (#2917 of 2981)

Hello everybody! It is Sunday morning in this part of the Forum world and I'm wishing a good day to my forum family! It is a great one, indeed.

I saw SW again last evening and it was great. I loved to notice all those little details I didn't see the first time I saw it, I think I even caught a glimpse of Mom Mothma at some point. I had seen a picture of her in the official guide and was wondering where she was in the movie (I bet she is in one of those deleted scenes we'll see on the dvd, but I would have loved to see her creating the rebel alliance with Bail Organa).

Julia:"It was just like watching a train wreck."

What a great analysis it is! Yes, it is just like the tragedies of old. It reminds me of "Antigone", the version by Jean Anouilh. It begins with a "Prologue" introducing the characters and saying about her: "Elle pense qu'elle va mourir, qu'elle est jeune et qu'elle aussi, elle aurait bien aimé vivre. Mais il n'y a rien à faire. Elle s'appelle Antigone et il va falloir qu'elle joue son rôle jusqu'au bout..." ("She thinks she's going to die, that she is young and that she, too, would have liked to live. But there is nothing to do. Her name is Antigone and she will have to play her role till the end..."). I see Anakin like that, "There is nothing to do. His name is Anakin and he will have to play his role till the end."

Squid Mike, thanks for the compliment! There is still something that I am wondering about the whole saga. It is about episode VI, when Luke asks Leia if she remembers her real mother and that Leia says something like she only remembers feelings, images, that she was beautiful and sad and died when she was very young. I presume she talks about her adoptive mother here but somehow I had always imagined she was talking about Padmé. Am I the only one wondering about that?

Marè: "We might feed you a canary cream for no reason what so ever". He, he... I bet I would love that!

Thora: I love your son's picture!

Have a great day everybody! Barbie, good luck with the cake decoration!

Audrey

Edit: I've just realised that there will be a new chat thread very soon. Do you think it will last till the HBP release? I don't know why, but somehow this possibility comforts me, the release is not that far anymore, isn't it?

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CatherineHermiona - Jun 5, 2005 1:54 am (#2918 of 2981)

I'm just so tired trying catch all posts. Every time I come to this thread there is at least 20 new posts and while I'm reading there comes even more.

It is Sunday morning here and last day that I am here (this weekend). It is raining and we can't ride a bike so I have more time to write here. I'm happy because we had, have and going to have a great time here and I hope Martina feels the same. I wanted to write same without the but Martina and my mother said that there goes the. But I still think that it is without the so help me.

Kate

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dizzy lizzy - Jun 5, 2005 1:54 am (#2919 of 2981)

I reckon we'll get our new chat thread very very soon (within the next 12 hours). And yes I hope it last us till HBP. I don't think it will last much sooner past that though. There will be just too many things to talk about.

I too, cannot get over how nice our forum family is and how spread out we are all over the world. It is like going to the letter box and looking for those letters from our pen friends. And the joy and pleasure it is to read all those "letter" and laugh at the fun things.

Lizzy

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septentrion - Jun 5, 2005 2:30 am (#2920 of 2981)

Elanor : There is still something that I am wondering about the whole saga. It is about episode VI, when Luke asks Leia if she remembers her real mother and that Leia says something like she only remembers feelings, images, that she was beautiful and sad and died when she was very young. I presume she talks about her adoptive mother here but somehow I had always imagined she was talking about Padmé. Am I the only one wondering about that?

No, you're not the only one. I know think she remembers her adoptive mother because in Ep IV, nobody ever speaks of Leia's mother but of her father, which could mean her (adoptive) mother was dead at that time.

Hee hee, canary cream, would love that too

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Detail Seeker - Jun 5, 2005 3:10 am (#2921 of 2981)

Elanor, I bet, that the coming up chat thread will last until after HBP coming out- but only just. Last week, there were 420posts here from Sunday morning to Saturday morning (= the amount I had to obliviate after one week of Forum absence). Extrapolation of this amount gives us about seven weeks for the coming up chat thread, which would be sufficient. (Looking back at times, where a chat thread would last three months...)

Happy Sunday everybody !

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Good Evans - Jun 5, 2005 7:06 am (#2922 of 2981)

Doris Crockford - I hope you enjoyed the "Dalek episode" - they are back next week too - so no that episode was not the last ever dalek - I hope that doesn't spoil it for you - I just knew that they couldn't be gone - they are the ultimate evil - LV or a Dalek - I choose LV to go up against - Daleks give mt the chills!

Gryffendora - I hope that you manage to catch the series and see Margaret the slytheen.(not quite a slytherin hmmn), then you will see what I mean.

Julie X

take care

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Phoenix song - Jun 5, 2005 8:07 am (#2923 of 2981)

Lina, please don't think that I was upset in the least! Sometimes it is difficult for teasing to come across in written words. I was just trying to assure you that I would always enjoy hearing from you all! I don't think you're not good at choosing your words at all. In fact, I am deeply impressed at everyone that posts here that normally speak another language. I find it to be an awesome task to read, think, and write in another language, especially to so many different people!!

So, while it may be difficult for you to think of the right words, it never seems to me as if you have any problems at all. Truthfully, you write so well that I feel as if I could walk across my front yard to discover you all living right across the street from me.

When I joined the Forum a year ago, I didn't imagine that I'd be developing friends from the next state over... much less from across the world! It makes our world situation seem less impossible that we've all come together so spectacularly.

By the way, if somebody asked me what I knew about Croatia, I would definitely say that I have TWO forum friends over there! (I'd also have to add that Dr. Kovach on E.R. is from Croatia. **wink, wink**)

Have a good day everybody!
Barbie

P.S. Thanks to everybody for their well wishes on this wedding cake. So far it's going well, and I am looking forward to getting it all over with!

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Marè - Jun 5, 2005 9:17 am (#2924 of 2981)
Edited Jun 5, 2005 11:20 am

After a google search I found this on a SW discussion forum in a post from 11/5/02, they copied this info from the star wars databank (official site):

The Jedi hero and general, Obi-Wan Kenobi, secretly transported Leia and her mother to the planet Alderaan, where she was to be raised by Kenobi's friend Bail Organa. The boy, Luke, was taken to the distant world of Tatooine. Leia has few memories of her true mother, Padmé Amidala. All that Leia can recall is that she was beautiful, but sad.

Apparently this was the old information in the databank. The new one is exactly the same except from the bold parts. (bold is mine). So in the original trilogy Padme didn't die right away.

Now where was Mon Motha in episode III? (I love continuity... I just have a hard time spotting it... going to watch 4,5 and 6 when I get to my parents again.)

Edit: Did you know that the balls of water the senator is watching in the opera house is the Man Calamari Ballet doing "Squid Lake."

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Phoenix song - Jun 5, 2005 9:21 am (#2925 of 2981)

Mare, thanks for the Star Wars information. I have a non-Star Wars related question, though. I was curious if your new avatar was a picture of you. I clicked on your picture, and found your introduction to be intriguing. Why do you think that you're not supposed to put anything into your introduction? Feel free to e-mail me if you're not comfortable answering here!

Barbie

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Marè - Jun 5, 2005 9:37 am (#2926 of 2981)

Barbie yes that's me. It's a picture from last year that I found somewhere and I thought it made a fun avatar.

And as for my profile, I used to have a pretty long one, but WX doesn't allow some things anymore. We had a discussion about this, Penny Lane., "-- Questions for the Host(s)" #1033, 2 May 2005 1:50 pm.
I haven't tried if it is fixed yet. The line that is there now is more of a joke, after trying for awhile this was the only thing the system accepted. So I left it at that.

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Ydnam96 - Jun 5, 2005 9:40 am (#2927 of 2981)

So I have a horrible sunburn on my face. I've tried aloe-vera, after sun burn lotion, and apple vinegar. Oooof I had a yard sale yesterday with my friends and it was overcast and I got really burned. I have to go to a conference tomorrow...haha, with a tomato face.

But, I made some good money on a bunch of junk that I had

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Loopy Lupin - Jun 5, 2005 9:58 am (#2928 of 2981)

Way to say "Hey!" Loopy!--- Catherine

Thank you. I feel awash in positive reinforcement.

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Elanor - Jun 5, 2005 11:29 am (#2929 of 2981)

Thanks for searching about Leia, Marè, this is curious indeed... I hope Lucas will explain this sometime! As for Mon Mothma, she definitely is in the end credits, I checked yesterday. The picture of her that I have shows a short red haired young woman, in a long cream-colored dress. So, I particularly searched for dresses like that in the film and I think I spotted her amongst the politicians who go with Palpatine, just after Anankin and Obi-Wan saved him (just before Anankin has this little chat with Bail Organa about Grievous in that big corridor). I can be wrong though!

Thanks for calculating about the chat thread Detail Seeker! I don't know why, but knowing that we will soon post on the thread on which we will live the final countdown till the HBP release makes me truly realise it is nearly here, at hand! We've been waiting for so long a time! **Ican'twaitIcan'twaitIcan'twait**

Ydam, I'm really sorry about your sunburn! **sending anti-tomato face charms**

Audrey

Edit: I have found a picture of Mon Mothma on the official SW site. It is not the same that is in the guide but is definitely the same actress! Mon Mothma. I hope it is okay to post this link, if not please forgive me.

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Eponine - Jun 5, 2005 11:36 am (#2930 of 2981)

Ydnam, you should try first aid cream. It works wonders on sunburns. I got a horrible sunburn the week I did lifeguard training several years ago, and I had to be in my mother's wedding at the end of the week. A friend of mine told me to use it extremely liberally. I ended up using about 3 tubes of it on Friday night, and my sunburn was gone on Saturday. I'd recommend the Johnson and Johnson brand, but I'm sure other kinds work just as well.

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Ydnam96 - Jun 5, 2005 12:03 pm (#2931 of 2981)

Eponine, do you mean like hydrocortisone? I'm not sure what first aid cream is but if it works I'll try it! Thanks

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CatherineHermiona - Jun 5, 2005 12:14 pm (#2932 of 2981)

You are talking about Star Wars all the time and I'm jealous because I can't watch Episode III (not allowed to younger than 13). I remember I watched Star Wars in kindergarten because our preschool teacher was giving it to us. But I don't remember which. I have picture book about Skywalker family. Mum says that we will borrow all films and until we come to Episode III I will have 13 years.

By the way, thanks GriffEndora what you stood in my defence (in Shack on a large rock way out to sea thread). I forgot to write it there. Your guessing was right: I meant symbolism but my mum didn't say anything so I thought that was right.

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Eponine - Jun 5, 2005 12:23 pm (#2933 of 2981)

Ydnam, I don't know if hydrocortisone is the same thing. My tube of it just says First Aid Cream - skin wound protectant, for minor cuts, scrapes and burns, soothing, greasless, non-irritating. I think it might be similar to Neosporin.

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timrew  - Jun 5, 2005 12:50 pm (#2934 of 2981)

More news on the 'security man' who stole a copy of HBP. He phoned The Daily Mirror - a British daily tabloid, and said he 'had something' for them. When the reporter went round he said he had a copy of HBP, and it had been really difficult to get hold of (this bit I failed to grasp, because with morons like him guarding it, it should have been really easy!).

Anyway, he demanded £30,000 from the reporter for the book, and then pointed to two guns on his mantlepiece, saying that he would shoot anyone that 'shopped' him.

Naturally, the reporter went straight to the police, who went round to the security man's house and arrested him. There was no big shoot-out, because the guns were replicas.

So our friend must now be looking at 5 years inside for threatening someone with a weapon. It doesn't matter that it wasn't real.

Oh, and no secrets from the book were revealed, because he couldn't read. Sorry, I just made that up!

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GryffEndora - Jun 5, 2005 1:09 pm (#2935 of 2981)

CatherineHermiona - No problem! I'm glad you could laugh about it. Keep that attitude and life will be much easier to cope with.

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Lina - Jun 5, 2005 2:07 pm (#2936 of 2981)

****Just winking back to Barbie!

Oh, Griffendora, we had a really good laugh. Till tears.

Though, the weekend was not so good this time. It rained today (cats and rats - oh sorry, cats and dogs) and after installing the new water heater, we found out that a part of the plumbing, connected to the water heater and not used last time, are broken too. So some major working is needed and we will spend our weekends at home until it gets repaired. And I am going back to work next Monday. I like meeting my co-workers, I just don't like coming home at 4 p. m.

Have a nice week everybody, and Mandy, I hope your sun burn becomes a sun tan soon!

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Ydnam96 - Jun 5, 2005 3:00 pm (#2937 of 2981)

Thanks Lina, unfortunatley I don't tan. I burn and the peel and I'm back to white again, although with a few more freckles

Sorry to hear about your plumbing problems, that's not fun. Good luck with going back to work.

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fleur-de-lys - Jun 5, 2005 3:23 pm (#2938 of 2981)

Lina, what is that pic ( your avatar) from? I only know Goran as Luka on the tv show ER, one of my favorites. But I really like his acting skill. If that's from something else he's in, I'd love to check it out.

Well, today has been uneventful. Good church service this morning, but a lot of updating people on mom. She's doing pretty good. Adjusting to home life has been a bit tough, but she's getting there. If only her ankle would let up. She's been having severe pain there for almost a year and a half. We've been to almost every doctor you can think of, but no one has come up with a solution yet. But we'll keep trying. Its getting really frustrating for me, I can only imagine how frustrated she must be.

Puck, I did warn her about being frisked at the airport. She was a bit surprised, but understood. She's glad to know in advanced and not to be surprised when she flies to Vegas this summer.

Well, hope everyone's had a good weekend. Back to the old grindstone tomorrow. Yippee. Talk to ya all soon.

Luv till the Kitchen Sinks, Lori

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GryffEndora - Jun 5, 2005 4:48 pm (#2939 of 2981)

Fleur - Goran is wonderfully dark and the villain in Practical Magic with Nicole Kidman, Sandra Bullock, Stockard Channing & Dianne Weist. Great movie! I strongly recommend it. I don't think Lina's pic is from that though.

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applepie - Jun 5, 2005 5:15 pm (#2940 of 2981)

Wow, what a day. It rained horribly this morning and when it finally stopped, I decided to go to the grocery since I hadn't made it there yet. I almost pulled my hair out while waiting to check out and when I finally made it out of the door to come back home, it was pouring again! That's just my luck! I got home without a dry spot on my body. It'll be a miracle if I don't get the flu!

I haven't had much time to log on since Friday afternoon and it's about 7pm on Sunday. The kiddies start camp tomorrow and they are excited about that. I'm not too excited because it costs more than their tuition for school. I just wish I didn't have to work and could keep them home for the summer.

The hubby and kids are watching Pirates of the Carribbean. I am trying to read the 50+ posts on this thread alone, so I'll start with a brief all-encompassing, "Hello" to everyone and well wishes for all of you as well. I hope all of you had a much less water-logged weekend than I. Not that we didn't need it, but all the same it is never convenient. Remarkably enough the kids got to play their baseball games yesterday. My rain dances never work when they are supposed to. I would have much rathered wake up to the thunderstorm yesterday, skip the ball games, and sleep in, but that didn't happen.

As I am typing it has started pouring again. It had stopped for about half an hour and is back full-force now.

Well, I'm going to check the rest of the threads and try to post a bit. I really have tons to do, but I am being quite lazy in light of the weather outside.

I would also like to say in relation to the conversation about the community of this forum, that I am deeply grateful that I came upon this forum, and had the guts to post. I always wanted a penpal as a child, and am continually impressed by the forum as a whole. So, from me to all of you.....Thanks!

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dizzy lizzy - Jun 5, 2005 5:25 pm (#2941 of 2981)

I think a forum like this is better than any pen pal in a way. You don't have to wait for the letters to reach your "penpal" anymore (and the looong wait for the reply!) .

Lizzy

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applepie - Jun 5, 2005 5:28 pm (#2942 of 2981)

Oh, I very much agree, dizzy lizzy. I think the forum is like the pen pal of the 21st century....

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Puck - Jun 5, 2005 6:14 pm (#2943 of 2981)

I've been waiting for hours for the rain to arrive to cool us off, but it hasn't. It's the first sunny weekend in over a month hear, and 90 degrees to boot! We never really had spring weather, right from cold and damp to hot and humid. My in-laws arrive tomorrow and I have yet to clean. The house is a disaster, I'm just too hot to bother. I too, ran to the grocery store, happy to hide in the air conditioning!

Thanks for the info about e-mail and changing my settings.

Lori, glad your Mom is adjusting. Boston has regular support group meeting, though I've never attended. I expect Philly might have the same. I was part of an on line group for a while, though. More to help me cope with Parker having the condition than anything else -needed to talk to other moms.

Thora, a car trip with 4 under 4? Amazingly brave! We drove to Disney with two this fall, and I thought that was a long 2 days!

Have a good week all!

Kathy

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Finn BV - Jun 5, 2005 6:14 pm (#2944 of 2981)

Yes, I agree. The forum is a fantastic way to meet other people; I'm just jealous I'm not going to the Forum Meeting! If only I were older…

Anyway, tomorrow morning I'm off to find out the results of my four final exams: Math, History, Spanish, and Science. I'll let you all know how I've done.

Kinda tired… off to bed. More to chat about tomorrow…

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Ponine - Jun 5, 2005 6:24 pm (#2945 of 2981)

Hei alle sammen!! I just want to point out that it is now official - due to this forum, I am lagging SEVERELY in all my emailing, downloading and all other computer-related tasks. It has come to the point that procrastination is no longer an option (it's a lifestyle.. ) I can't wait to see a picture of Barbie's cake, and as we foreigners say - 'I'll be back.'

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GryffEndora - Jun 5, 2005 6:48 pm (#2946 of 2981)

I have a shameful confession to make. I have never read SS, CoS, PoA or GoF. I have only listened to them repeatedly on tape and then CD. Here is why I am confessing. Today I finally decided to use some gift cards from Christmas and treat myself to the books in paperback. It's difficult to reference & quote from a CD so I have this Forum to thank for lighting the fire under me to get out and get the books. OotP was the first Harry Potter book that I actually read before I listened to it. I already have OotP in hard cover but I purchased OotP in paperback as well. I want all the books in hard cover but I couldn't afford them today. One thing I discovered was that is was about 4 dollars cheaper to buy the paperbacks individually than in the boxed set. I guess thick cardboard is pretty expensive. Anyway, they say confession is good for the soul. I hope you all can absolve me. Again, thank you everyone for the push to purchase.

I love my Forum family. I'm delighted to have made friends across the country and the globe through Harry Potter. If he can unite the world through us surely he will find a way to unite The Wizarding World. Much love to you all!

Oh My Goodness!!! A local theatre the Theatre De La Jeune Lune just won the Regional Theatre Award on the Tonys! This is the 2nd Minneapolis theatre to win the Regional Tony in less than 5 years! W00T!!! This is a wonderful theatre. It is the first theatre I saw Hamlet in. That same year I saw 2 different productions of Hamlet by the Royal Shakespeare Company one locally and one in London. It was a great year for me and Hamlet and now this wonderful theatre gets $25,000 dollars to continue doing great theatre. It soooo cool!!! Sorry I'm a bit of a theatre geek but I just love a home town hero! Wow! For those of you who don't know Minnesota has the most theatres per capita of any state outside of New York and we have a great Theatre Community. I'm just so proud to see them get recognized! Yay live theatre!!!

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lemonbalm&bees - Jun 5, 2005 6:57 pm (#2947 of 2981)

GryffEndora- well you certainly fooled me! I would never have guessed you had never actually read those books. You manage to be just as knowledgeable about them as anyone else. Because, of course, the books were read to you...

Always love to hear from someone else who appreciates some good Hamlet now and then. I confess I have never seen it live, although if the opportunity ever makes itself convenient to me, I will certainly jump up on that! However, I am probably the only dork who frequently re-visits her old marked up high school version- just for fun!

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Eponine - Jun 5, 2005 7:21 pm (#2948 of 2981)

I love live theatre. It's so great. GryffEndora, I'm thrilled that your local theatre won the Tony. I like watching the Tony's, and I'm looking forward to the performance from Spamalot. I'm also just loving watching Hugh Jackman.

GryffEndora, I'm also quite surprised you've only listened to the books.

Whee! Spamalot!

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Julia. - Jun 5, 2005 7:51 pm (#2949 of 2981)

Ohhhh, I love live theatre! I have a confession to make though. About three and a half years ago my family and I flew to London for the weekend. Saturday night we went to the Royal Shakespeare Company's production of Hamlet. I was so jetlagged, and so tired, that I fell asleep. *gasp* I was awake for the beginning, the end and the grave digger scene, that was it. My Shakespeare professor was horrified, and I thought it was as close to blasphemy as you can get without actually being blasphemy.

Fleur, I'm glad your mum is doing better.

fbv, don't worry, we don't plan on stopping these gatherings any time soon, so when you're older we all look forward to meeting you.

Today my friends and I went to the Salute to Israel parade in New York. It was really fun, we got to march with the Hillel group, and since we had huge Israeli flags, we got to be in the front. It was an excellent day, even though we were all very hot, as it was about 90 degrees out.

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Ydnam96 - Jun 5, 2005 9:18 pm (#2950 of 2981)

Julia, that sounds like it was a fun parade! It's not everyday that you get to be in a parade in NYC

GryffEndora: hey I don't see listening to them as a problem. I prefer reading because I find it relaxing but you know sometimes it's more realistic for people who have busy lives to listen to books. That's why having them on tape/cd is sooo amazing. I personally read them all first (I have them both in paper and hard back, US versions. I would love to get some of the UK editions...) but then I moved from Virginia to California so I bought them all on CD (well some were a gift). It was great! Plus, my mom who was one of those "Harry Potter is evil" people had to listen to them as well, cause she was in the car, and she got totally into it. Long story for me to say: you have nothing to be ashamed of. But I would recommend reading them because there is something special about that!

I'm off tomorrow morning for my week long conference near Portland Oregon. It's pretty up there...but it's supposed to rain the whole week. Oh well. Hopefully it goes well. I am NOT a fan of flying. I'm glad I'm going in a large group because it will make it a little easier (I should never have gotten into the show LOST).

Have a great week everyone! *I might pop on early tomorrow am before I head out, we'll see how late I'm running *

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Phoenix song - Jun 5, 2005 9:50 pm (#2951 of 2981)

Hello everybody! **winks back at Lina with the gorgeous picture of Goran!** (Psst... I really like him, too! )

I've had a most eventful day! This morning, I went over to help my mom with her yard work. We have 2 acres each to maintain, and it's more difficult to accomplish now that my father has passed away and my husband is only home a handful of days a month. I had finished my yard yesterday, and decided to work on her yard today as a special "help".

At noon, I went home to feed the kids lunch, and discovered when I entered the house that there had been a fire inside while I was gone. My Central Air Conditioning Unit had caught on fire. It was a miracle that nobody was hurt, (because the blind panic alone would have caused injuries if we had been home!), but it was also a miracle that there was no real damage other than the burnt air conditioner.

Evidently, flames had shot out of the thermostat on my wall, but died out before catching anything else on fire. The thermostat is located right above the desks and bookshelves that I use for my homeschooling, so there was plenty of paper, books, and wood there for kindling, but we were blessed that nothing ignited.

As I sit here typing to you all nearly 12 hours later, I'm still in absolute shock at what happened! And I'm also wondering how I'm going to get rid of the burnt plastic smell in the house! The thermostat actually melted itself into a blob on the wall! It was quite a sight. Well, enough about that, I consider myself to be blessed with my home, my family, and my friends... and I count you all amongst that number!

GryffEndora, I think that your "confession" is quite alright. I enjoy the books on tape as well. I'm glad that the audios for the HP books aren't the "summaried" types of readings that other books have. It would drive me crazy to hear the books if they were little more than book reports, but they're so enjoyable in their entirety!

Since we're confessing, I have some HP confessions as well. I am an intense reader. My husband can read a book without it even looking as if it's ever left the store's shelf. But I "dig into" a book with gusto, leaving the spine a total mess, (in his opinion). Before joining the forum, I began to notice patterns within the books, and began to mark and highlight the text. Several months ago, I began to help more with research for the Cupboard newsletters, and my poor books haven't stood a chance since. They're in literal tatters, coming apart at the seams, and PS literally has loose pages inside.

Recently there was a discussion about how careful people are with their books, and I began to feel a bit guilty about how much I abused my own books. I've vowed that I'm going to purchase a new set of books for regular reading, that I will take very good care of them, and that I will only do research on my "work" books. Whew! Confession is good for the soul. Hopefully you will all forgive me for my rough treatments of these delightful works, and will overlook my ignorant enthusiasm!

Good night all!
Barbie

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lemonbalm&bees - Jun 5, 2005 10:26 pm (#2952 of 2981)

Moo4Freedom- I read your post on the "Tell us about yourself thread" I'm a newcomer, too, but it's feeling more and more like home all the time. Welcome to the forum. You've got some great ideas to offer. (Incidentally, my boyfriend is also of the opinion that cheese improves any dish, except chocolate. I would have to agree, except in the case of cream cheese. Mmmmm cheesecake with a chocolate drizzle...)

Pheonix Song, oh my goodness! When I read the news about your fire, my eyes automatically scanned down searching for the part that said nobody was hurt. Luckily I found it! I am so glad neither you, your family or your house was badly damaged. My aunt's house caught fire last year. Luckily, the family was out of the house in that instance as well, but I got to experience secondhand the total curveball that a fire can throw at you. Count yourself as very fortunate indeed. I'm thankful the most you have to complain about is a nasty smell.

Oh, and don't feel too bad about being an intense reader. A teacher of mine once told me that she did not 'read' books. She 'used' them. I am the same way. Any time you want to read Harry Potter in my family's house back home, you have to search the house for all the missing pages that have come loose from the weak spine, soft with years of hard love. I have a volume of The Little Prince that has highlighted lines all through it, and my The Ordinary Princess looks like a child's coloring books. In fact, I think the shabby state of a book's exterior is only a sign of how much the actual story of the book is loved by its readers.

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dizzy lizzy - Jun 5, 2005 10:37 pm (#2953 of 2981)

While we are on treatments of books, all my softcover books have cracked spines. It appears from reports of people watching me read, I "crack" the spine of the book as I read. I actually don't notice I am doing it.

I am glad however that PoA, GoF and OoP are hardbacks, because so far I haven't destroyed them. I have been unable to find hardbacks of the first two books in Australia at a decent price.

I am a re-reader. Books read more than once a year are in a shocking state now and the HP books on CD are on my wish list.

Phoenix Song - I am soo glad to hear that your house survived the "Great Air Conditioner meltdown". I hope that horrible plasticky smell goes away soon.

Lizzy

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The giant squid - Jun 6, 2005 2:01 am (#2954 of 2981)

Those of you looking for tidbits in Episode III, keep an eye out for the Millenium Falcon--it makes a brief appearance in the background in one scene. I'm not ashamed to say that someone else saw it before I did...I didn't catch it until my second viewing. I still haven't seen Mon Mothma (that I know of).

Barbie, thank goodness your house is all right! I don't know what the odds of an AC unit spontaneously combusting are, but the odds of that combustion not spreading to the rest of the house are pretty small! Your guardian angel was definitely looking out for you yesterday...

--Mike

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Cornelia - Jun 6, 2005 2:32 am (#2955 of 2981)

Barbie - I´m so happy you and your family are all right and no big(ger)damage is done! Stories like your make me allways check our electric heating and our insurance police...

On the book abuse, I have to confess that I´m not treating my books good. It was said before and I would like to join the club of book "users". Every time I´m reading in the kitchen and lay down my book on the "face" (on the open pages) my hubby tells me "don´t do it, it does hurt me (and the book)". One look on our books and you can tell which one is loved by me and which one is read by Björn.

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Lina - Jun 6, 2005 4:17 am (#2956 of 2981)

When I was new to the Forum, I saw comments "Oh, I like your avatar!" and even some explanations on what the avatar is, except it was already changed and I didn't understand anything. Now I have improved.

Fleur, I guess my intention was to provoke the questions about my avatar and I succeeded . Well, you know, Goran made some Croatian films too and they are the reason I like him. He uses to come home on hollyday and then make some films here. This is from the film and the series about the WW II in my country and some time after that I liked very much, but you might not find it interesting or even possible to rent. (The director was his father in law.) But the film I would really recommend is the US-Croatian joined production "The last will". It is a comedy with no political connotations, no big morals, just fun and well done.

Griffendora, your confession is much appreciated. Interesting though. I'm not sure I see what is wrong with listening to the books. Everybody have their own way of perceiving the world.

When I was young, I attended an International and Inter religious meeting that happens every summer in Taize (France - waves to Elanor and Septentrion) and my grandmother commented how these meetings are nice because people who attended them could not make war against each other. Yet, I'm afraid that people who make decisions usually do not attend those meetings or join forums like this one. Can you imagine Fudge joining the Forum?
And congratulations to your local Theatre! That's great!

Mandy, have a good trip!

Oh, Barbie, I can understand your shock! Scary. I'd rather not imagine what could have happened. Good that it didn't! I often leave the house with some appliances on and always believe that nothing would happen. I shouldn't.
And your confession is quite interesting too. I liked to borrow my books to other people, thinking that the more people read them, the better. But the outcome is quite comparable to your "work books" so I have decided to buy new books too and to choose who I borrow the books in the future. Or land?

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Good Evans - Jun 6, 2005 5:28 am (#2957 of 2981)

I am an avid reader - but I must admit I listen to the CD's of HP more than I read the text, I might look something up in the book but I generally dont read them all the time now - no time!!

POA on CD arrived in post today - hooray hooray hooray.

Mandy - hope that sunburn goes down real soon

Mike - I did catch the Millenium falcon and nudged hubbys arm to the point he dropped pop corn on the kid infront - not best pleased!!

Barbie - gosh - glad everyone is ok!

Lina - if "Dr Kovic" Goran (cant remember how to spell surname - sorry) is just a sample of Croatia - there must be many more wonderful things to come!!! He was one of the voices in "Ice AGe" and I have seen him in a couple of other things too. Always worth a watch (or a listen)!!

Julia - glad you had fun at the parade

Take care all

Julie X

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Finn BV - Jun 6, 2005 5:47 am (#2958 of 2981)

Moo4Freedom, welcome to forum! We hope your enjoy your time here.

GryffEndora, I too was fooled. I've tried books on tape and while they're fun and a good way to pass *long* car trips, afterwards I couldn't tell you anything that happened! (Of course, if it were Harry, I could because I have read them innumerable times, but when we listened to this one Agatha Christie I enjoyed it immensely but completely forgot the whole plot an hour later )

Barbie, glad everyone is OK! Your description of the thermostat melting "into a blob" was quite entertaining. I hope everything's all right.

Mandy, I got a sunburn myself the other day at a pool party without even knowing it. I went to tennis later and was doing stretches on my shoulders (which got hit the most) and yelped with pain (well, maybe this is slight hyperbole ). Good luck and have a good trip!

Now, off to find my final grades!

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Steve Newton - Jun 6, 2005 5:52 am (#2959 of 2981)

fbv807, I do most of my 'reading' with recorded books. 50 minutes each way to work and I can get through a book pretty fast. I always pick up details that I hadn't noticed before.

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Marie E. - Jun 6, 2005 5:55 am (#2960 of 2981)

Barbie, I'm glad you and your family are safe and sound. I can't imagine how scary that was!

It's supposed to be in the 80's today, thank goodness. We had a cooling trend this weekend which is depressing in June, I think. People are always saying "we need the rain, drought, blah, blah, blah" but I need sun, darn it! Heehee, mini-rant over.

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fleur-de-lys - Jun 6, 2005 7:16 am (#2961 of 2981)

Gyffendora, WOW...OH MY GOSH!!!!!! I did see that movie when it was out in the theaters and never even realized it. I'll have to check it out again. I did enjoy it the first time. And congrats to your local theater. What an accomplishment!

Barbie, what a shock to come home and find out about the fire. Thanks goodness no one was hurt and the damage sounds like its minimal. I'm always afraid that I'll lose important memories, like pictures in a fire. We're working on putting them on disk and secured away, but its a long process. And don't worry about your books. I have many that are falling apart as well. I think its the mark of a good, in-depth reader to have beat up books. Just like its the mark of a great cook to have a stained and messy apron. My apron is quite stained. How about yours?

Hope everyone had a good weekend. Ours was uneventful but profitable (is that possible?). Its countdown time at our house. Two weeks until the munchkins birthday and party. Time for some serious planning. Well, have a good day everybody. If you're from the Philly area, or any where else that's having hot weather, stay cool.

Luv N Mush, Lori

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Madam Pince - Jun 6, 2005 7:17 am (#2962 of 2981)

Wow, Barbie, I am so glad that the fire in your house turned out to be minor. That is so scary! How fortunate that everything is OK.

GryffEndora, I think it's great that you listened to the books on tape! I would like to try that, but the cost of the tapes has deterred me -- it's almost twice that of the books, I think! Anyway, the one time in my life that I tried to listen to a book on tape, I got all confused and couldn't focus and/or understand, so I just gave up and haven't tried again since. I think I'm more of a "visual" learner, as opposed to an "aural" learner. I know I always did better in school if I saw the topic rather than just heard the lecture -- that's why my notes are almost always verbatim of any lecture, or else I might as well not even be there. (Granted, the book on tape I was listening to was one of Tom Clancy's with a bunch of drug-cartel kingpin-type characters who all had the same Hispanic accent, so I couldn't tell which character was speaking when, but still...)

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Denise P. - Jun 6, 2005 7:20 am (#2963 of 2981)

GryffEndora, my 10 year old read GoF while listening to it on audio CD. He had the book and just followed along with the CD. I have all the Potter books on CD and it is nice to have in the car and such. When OoP came out, I put it on in my son's hospital room although I had to pause anytime a specific nurse or doctor came in so they wouldn't be spoiled LOL

Off to Dental appointments this morning...whee! The two kids who are scheduled today are thrilled to bits. Sure....

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Finn BV - Jun 6, 2005 8:12 am (#2964 of 2981)

OK… I got my grades back! I can't think of any other way to say them to you other than just saying them, so…
87% Science
93% History
94% Math
95% Spanish

Wheee! (sorry for copying you Denise, but "whee" is a word I use a lot anyway…) I am so happy! Now, off to read the threads.

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applepie - Jun 6, 2005 8:13 am (#2965 of 2981)

fbv807, that's wonderful. Congratulations!

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Doris Crockford - Jun 6, 2005 8:14 am (#2966 of 2981)

Good Evans: The Daleks are coming back? Yay! Even though that was one of the scarier episodes, I loved it (partially because I also watch Coronation Street, and one of the actors from Corrie played Adam). But with a show where they can travel in time, I kinda knew they'd be able to meet another Dalek. But they won't be in tomorrow's episode here- it's the second half of "the Empty Child" (in WWII London). But I quite agree that Voldemort would be a better enemy than a Dalek- he's is at least partially human, and probably not immune to 50 people trying to shoot him with guns.

Barbie, it's good to hear that everyone was OK after the fire. That must have been terrifying, though. It's really lucky that none of your books or anything caught fire.

Gryffendora, I don't blame you at all for listening to them on CD/tape. I'd like to try it, too, but I'm too cheap, and I don't retain things when I hear them. But I'm glad you bought the books. New books just smell so much better than new CDs.

Good luck at the dentist, Denise!

Congrats, fbv! Those are great results!

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applepie - Jun 6, 2005 8:31 am (#2967 of 2981)

Whew...I've been checking through all the posts on the other threads that I missed over the weekend. You guys are ruthless....

Barbie, sorry to hear about your fire. I am so relieved that you all were safe, and that the damage was minimal. That must have been so scarry!

GryffEndora, I wish I had the books on tape. The problem is that I have no time to listen to them for an extended period of time. Also, I can imagine myself being easily confused starting a series in the audio version, as I am a visual thinker. But, knowing the stories already, it would be a nice edition.

Denise, good luck with the kiddies dentist appointment. I don't know how you do it. It is hard enough for me to manage two children. You definitely are a special person.

Well, I'm back to work now. I'll try to catch up on posting a little later.

Have a wonderful Monday everyone...as if that could happen while sitting at work...

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Stephanie M. - Jun 6, 2005 8:35 am (#2968 of 2981)

fbv that's amazing!!! I didn't get my grades, but I know I didn't do that well in Spanish! I really think I guessed 30% of that Final. LOL. I know I did really well on History though, because I don't think I got anything wrong. LOL I probably some some points off the identifications though. Science I messed up the density, because I forgot to weigh the marble, but I did weigh the cube. O well whatever. My parents were going to call and get my grades, so if I get them I'll tell them to you.

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Gina R Snape - Jun 6, 2005 8:41 am (#2969 of 2981)

Wow...I come back here and find I'm 324 posts behind. Sorry, guys. Too much for me to catch up on.

But I wanted to wave hello to AccioHBP and SiriusLee, who joined up with me and some others on Sunday for some HP fun. :waves:

fbv807...muy bien!

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Lina - Jun 6, 2005 9:10 am (#2970 of 2981)

Good Evans II: He was one of the voices in "Ice AGe"
And he did the same voice in the Croatian translation too. Ain't it cool? I just like him as a person.

fbv, what else could you be but happy with such great results? Congratulations! Now enjoy your summer with 100.5 %!

Stephanie, I wish you better results than your expectations are, and a great summer too!

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Julia. - Jun 6, 2005 9:29 am (#2971 of 2981)

Goof afternoon everyone!

Barbie, I'm so glad that you and your family are safe! Small house fires can be quite scary, so thank G-d that you were out of the house and that there was very little damage. Sorry about the burnt plastic smell, I wish I could help get rid of that, it can't be pleasant.

fbv, mazel tov on your grades! Those are outstanding grades and you should be very proud of yourself!!!

*waves to my forum family* Off to check the threads!

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librarian314 - Jun 6, 2005 9:33 am (#2972 of 2981)

Hey all!

Barbie- Glad to hear that the fire was as small as it was. I bet it was still pretty upsetting, anyway.

fbv087 - Congrats on those grades.

Hearing about all y'all students out there has definitely made me happy I'm no longer in school. I love to learn, but hate tests and grades.

The first time I "read" HP, was when my hubby read them to me. I would sit at my spinning wheel, making yarn, and listen to him. He did such great voices (though no accents) that I had no problem keeping track. I'm listening to them again (I'm at chapter 14 or 15 of OotP) before I re-read them before HBP. I've checked the tapes out from our local library, so it hasn't cost me anything.

Like Steve, I tend to catch different things when I listen to the books than when I read them. When I'm reading, I tend to focus on the story. When I listen, I can catch more of the word choice, alliteration, subtle foreshadowing, etc.

As a librarian, one would think I would "take proper care of my books". I am a librarian's worst nightmare when it comes to the way I treat my books. I eat and drink whilst reading, (many of my books have tiny chocolate smears in the margins ;-) ), sometimes cook whilst reading, leave Post-It notes in books, use unconventional bookmarks (spare socks, crochet hooks, unopened bags of chips, other books) and generally really beat them up. They are my books, I bought them, and I'll treat them the way I want.

I don't tend to write or make marks in books because I find the underlining/highlighting too distracting. Just a bookmark on the page and I'll be able to figure out why it's marked. I just hate it when I'm reading it and my book marks start falling out.

I'm better with books I borrow and ones that my husband wants kept nice. You can tell which books are my favorites because they have ragged covers and lots of bookmarks.

Y'all take care!

**michelle the librarian**

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Elanor - Jun 6, 2005 9:36 am (#2973 of 2981)

Congratulations fbv,that is great indeed!

Lina, you were in Taizé? Do you know it is only about 60 km far from where I live? It is a small world sometime. I visited it once some years ago and thought the atmosphere was fantastic, full of "joie de vivre". I too love your avatar (I'm a big ER fan), I'm sure I would become fluent in Croatian in no time if he was my teacher...

Barbie, what a scary story! I'm glad everyone was okay and that the bad smell is the worst result of it.

Mike "keep an eye out for the Millenium Falcon--it makes a brief appearance in the background in one scene." Oh, I missed it! Wait! Wouldn't it be a very good reason to go and see it again?

GryffEndora, the only important thing is to have access to the books, printed or taped I'm sure that the effect is the same, as soon as you taste it, you're hooked!

Actually, I have tried to hear the English audio version of PS once but, somehow, I found it disturbing. It's difficult to explain but I felt as if someone was thinking for me. When I read the book again afterwards I was hearing his voice in my head and I didn't like that, it was as if I was less free to "travel" in the book. But pay no intention to me, I'm a bit crazy...

Have a great day everybody!

Edit: Michelle: "many of my books have tiny chocolate smears in the margins", LOL! Mine too...

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KWeldon - Jun 6, 2005 10:16 am (#2974 of 2981)

Those of you looking for tidbits in Episode III, keep an eye out for the Millenium Falcon--it makes a brief appearance in the background in one scene.

Mike, please have mercy and just tell us in invisible writing? I probably won't be able to see it more than one more time until the DVD, ages from now.

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applepie - Jun 6, 2005 11:28 am (#2975 of 2981)

Oh, I so wish I were Barbara Marcus of Scholastic...just long enough to read the book. If the books are printed and are ready to roll, why don't they release them already?

I'll tell you why.........they like torturing us, that's why!

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The giant squid - Jun 6, 2005 11:48 am (#2976 of 2981)

For KWEldon: It's near the beginning, when Anakin & Obi-Wan have landed the remains of Grevious' ship. When their shuttle is landing at the docking facility(?) they are coming in on the upper level, and the Millenium Falcon is landing on a lower level. It's only there for maybe a second, and it's small compared to the Jedi's ship, so it's tough to catch.

I'm actually very careful with my books (my wife uses another, more colorful word ). The ones I reread a lot, though, do have creases in the spine and the occasional food/drink additive. I have a copy of Robert Heinlein's "The Number of the Beast" where the cover has become completely detached. My HP books aren't there yet, but it's only a matter of time...

Marie, you may want the sunshine, but I need it to rain on you. The Colorado River feeds Lake Mead, which is where we (in Vegas) get our water supply. So in order for us to stop hearing about "water preservation", y'all need to get rained out.

--Mike

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Snuffles - Jun 6, 2005 11:52 am (#2977 of 2981)

Hi everyone.

Well my 20's are finally over I turned 30 today!! my husband is away until Wednesday but I did get an enormous bouquet delivered . My 2 sister in laws thought it would be funny to put an enormous banner at the traffic lights in the village with my name and age on it!!! At least the weather was something to smile about. I took my 2 year old daughter and her friend to the seaside and it was lovely and warm, we went by train for a treat as they hadn't been on one before.

Well done fbv they are brilliant results.

Hope everyone had a good weekend.

Julie

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The giant squid - Jun 6, 2005 11:53 am (#2978 of 2981)

Happy Birthday, Snuffles! Don't worry, 30 is the new 20.

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applepie - Jun 6, 2005 11:59 am (#2979 of 2981)

It's all about perspective. I wasn't afraid to turn 30, and my birthday turned out to be the best one yet! Age is a state of mind. Don't let a number get you down, just sit back and enjoy the ride.

By the way.......HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!

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KWeldon - Jun 6, 2005 12:07 pm (#2980 of 2981)

Mike,

Oh, I think I saw that!! Seriously! I had completely forgotten about it until you mentioned where it was.

Thanks! KWeldon

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Kip Carter - Jun 6, 2005 12:11 pm (#2981 of 2981)

Being that World Crossing (WX) limits the maximum number of messages to a thread at 3,000 and that number included posts that were deleted, the maximum number as of this post is 2,984 or less. I realize that I have some 3 possible messages before WX automatically stops posts from being added to this thread, I am closing this discussion on this thread now and suggest that you continue it on the new -- Chat and Greeting Thread for Members.

-- Chat and Greeting Thread (6 Jun 05 to 31 Aug 05)

Edited Jan 12, 2006 2:55 am

I established this thread for each of you so inclined to chat on the main discussion threads. With this thread, I hope that all chat-type posts will no longer disrupt the other threads.

This is the seventh thread provided for chat-type posts since September 25, 2003. The first Chat and Greeting Thread (25 Sep 03 to 26 Feb 04) had 2752 messages before it was closed out February 26, 2004. The second Chat and Greeting Thread (25 Feb 04 to 15 Jun 04) had 2912 messages before it was closed out June 15, 2004. The third Chat and Greeting Thread (15 Jun 04 to 2 Sep 04) had 2954 when closed out September 2, 2004. The fourth Chat and Greeting Thread (2 Sep 04 to 30 Nov 04) had 2977 when closed out November 30, 2004. The fifth Chat and Greeting Thread (1 Dec 04 to 14 Mar 05) had 2956 when closed down March 14, 2005. The sixth Chat and Greeting Thread (15 Mar 05 to 6 Jun 05) had 2981 when closed down June 6, 2005. Eventually the sixth thread will join the first five threads in the folder =+=+= Archived Threads: Since Reorganization =+=+= OR possibly not!

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TwinklingBlueEyes      - Jun 6, 2005 12:12 pm (#1 of 2963)

Sorry to hear about your AC Barbie. Am so glad all are safe!

Woohoo! First post on new thread :-). Back to the barn, show season is getting to be a 24 hour a day job!

...toddles off to barn again...

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Eponine - Jun 6, 2005 12:29 pm (#2 of 2963)

Happy Birthday, Snuffles!

Barbie, I'm glad that you are all safe. Fires are scary.

About books. I'm a little, um, meticulous about my books. I don't often write in them except for school books, but our library does have our books divided into genres and alphabetized by author and placed in order of publication date. But if the author has written a series in addition to other books, the series is placed together, and the other books are sorted according to publication date. Although, I do have a separate shelf for my rare and signed books. Plus, there's the whole extra space for my Secret Garden collection.

No, I'm not obsessed with my books, why do you ask? I am reading a book called Biblioholism: A Literary Addiction, and while the book is humorous, it's slightly unnerving how close some of the descriptions are.

I really should be cleaning the house. I've got company coming tomorrow. Anyone know any good cleaning spells?

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fleur-de-lys - Jun 6, 2005 12:49 pm (#3 of 2963)

Happy Birthday Snuffles! Don't fret about 30, its not so bad. Actually, turning 25 was a bit of a shock for me. Never though it would be tough, but it was a bit. After being in my 30's for almost 4 years (will be 33 on June 29), I can say its not that bad. Hey, you're only as old as you feel and act. In that case, I'm 70 going on 12.

Its been a busy, tiring and EXTREMELY HOT day!!! I'm not ready for this weather yet. Bring on the Rita's. Hope y'all are staying cool.

Yours till Niagara Falls, Lori (I need to think of some more of those. I keep using the same 4 from the book and they're even getting old to me. Time to put on the old thinking cap!)

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Madam Pince - Jun 6, 2005 1:03 pm (#4 of 2963)

Happy Birthday, Snuffles! Your 30's will be the best decade of your life! Old enough to have plenty of life experience to draw on, but not so old that you start to notice gray hairs and wrinkles! Have fun!

Eponine, the best cleaning spell I know of is the one you already have discovered: "I have company coming tomorrow!" That always seems to get the job done around the Pince household!

Hot, hot, hot today! Bleah. I wasn't expecting this and put jeans on this morning before I went out running errands -- one of which was to pick up some plants at the nursery. I nearly passed out in the greenhouses, it was so hot! I am now procrastinating going out and putting the plants in the ground.

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Elanor - Jun 6, 2005 1:13 pm (#5 of 2963)

Happy birthday Snuffles! Don't worry about being 30, I've never felt so good as I have in my 30s!

Fleur: "After being in my 30's for almost 4 years (will be 33 on June 29)"  

Well, now that's old! I'll be 33 only on September 8th... (just kidding!)

Seriously, I really know what you mean about feeling old. When I came back from school my back was really painful and I felt as if I was at least 20 years older but as soon as I turned on the computer and start reading the posts, I felt younger and younger at once! Now, if I start and think to July 16th, suddenly I am about 12, okay 13, but no more... And that, without Elixir of Life! What a great witch JKR is!

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Lina - Jun 6, 2005 1:24 pm (#6 of 2963)

Elanor, I was in Taize only once. I even "worked" as a translator between Italian and Croatian. Those were really memorable days and I have the wish to go there again with the whole family. My husband has a little problem about that - his mum was an English teacher (she is retired now), his father worked as a translator from two languages, but my husband and his siblings don't speak any foreign language. And two of my daughters are very complicated when it comes to food. So I hope that in few years we might be able to come again. Having you so close could make me only work harder on this goal!

Julie, happy birthday!

Oh, my sister reminded me today about July 16th... I have to start rereading OotP! And I am afraid that my summer vacation won't start at that moment yet (we usually get informed at Friday - you can stay home since Monday, next three week), and my birthday is soon after and I should call the publisher to make sure about when will I get my book. Procrastinators Anonymous?

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Chemyst - Jun 6, 2005 2:29 pm (#7 of 2963)

I had some notes I'd made yesterday for posting, but today, most don't make a lot of sense. Someone asked a question about Anakin that sounded exactly like an essay test question or a literature class assignment– and several people thought it was "fun," or in Julia's case, found it "fascinating." To which I'd planned to reply something like, "Only on the Lexicon forum is that sort of analysis considered entertainment." (Actually, it would have been wittier than that, but time marched on and I lost the moment.)

– On to today:
I suppose you all have made some valid points about the audio books, but for some stories, HP among them, (and like Elanor) I just don't like to hear the tape in my head when I go back and read the book. I already could hear Alan Rickman and Emma Watson in their respective roles when I first read OP, so I felt like I was getting movie contamination before they'd even written a script!   ...and I've seen the movies only once each.

Phoenix Song, thank goodness for guardian angels. We don't want your new nickname to be Barbie-Q, after all. -- and what would your sister-in-law-to-be think of smoked wedding cake?

Happy Birthday, Snuffles!

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boop - Jun 6, 2005 2:34 pm (#8 of 2963)

Happy Birthday Snuffles!!!!! Have a wonderful day!!!!!

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Lupin is Lupin. Natch. - Jun 6, 2005 2:46 pm (#9 of 2963)

...and I've seen the movies only once each.---Chemyst

And we all know why that is.

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Finn BV - Jun 6, 2005 2:50 pm (#10 of 2963)

W00T! It's our new Chat and Greeting Thread! And I'm post Numero 10 on it! W000000T!!

Happy birthday, Snuffles! 30 is preposterously old… yeah right!

Speaking of rereads, I am so due for a reread of CoS and GoF! Need to definitely catch up on that whole thing with the Malfoys… oh, and wasn't there something about, like, a character named Tom Riddle? Hmm… I seem to have forgotten who he was… just kidding! No, I seriously need to work on 2 and 4. Hey, I've got two weeks in a car starting Friday!

Okey dokey, off to the threads!

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T Brightwater - Jun 6, 2005 3:02 pm (#11 of 2963)

Happy Birthday, Snuffles! 30? Don't worry, some of us are way ahead of you...

Finally saw Revenge of the Sith - yikes! You'd think fictional characters would eventually wise up about prophecies and premonitions... :-) And I agree with those who say R2D2 stole the show! BTW, can anyone tell me what happened to the clone army and the clone-son from the 2nd episode? If there's any backstory on Han Solo in episodes 1-3 I missed it completely.

Barbie, I hate to tell you this but the smell of burned plastic is incredibly persistent. I'm glad there were no injuries and no worse damage, though.

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Amilia Smith - Jun 6, 2005 3:07 pm (#12 of 2963)

Well, I am actually very grateful that I now have Stephen Fry's voice in my head instead of annoying CGI movie Dobby's. Don't know if that sentence made any sense. But I saw CoS movie before reading any of the books, and as a result, had only been able to read CoS the book twice, with a very long interval between. As a comparison, I had read the other books 4-5 times in the same time period. Since buying the CDs, I have listened to CoS three times, and it is starting to grow on me.

Since I had to fit everything into two suitcases and a carryon when I moved to Hawaii, I left my books home. I did bring the audio versions with me, though, converted to MP3s so that each book would fit onto one CD. I enjoy them immensely, but have the same problem as Gryffendora, they are very hard to quote from.

On the Anakin question: One of the girls at my church teaches elementary school, and told the following story. Her students are very much into Star Wars, but not very Star Wars literate. For example, they thought Luke was Anakin's father. So, for the last few weeks of school, she had Star Wars lessons in her classroom during recess, where they watched the original trilogy. The kids were very upset by the end of Return of the Jedi. "So Anakin dies?" "Yes, Anakin dies."

So, maybe I would have cared more about Anakin if I hadn't grown up on the Original trilogy.

I am feeling rather guilty to keep on talking about Star Wars when you haven't seen any of it, Kate. The spoiler is in white for you, on the off chance that you don't know how Return of the Jedi ends. On the bright side, you can look forward to seeing them for the first time. . . . :-)

Mills.

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KWeldon - Jun 6, 2005 3:26 pm (#13 of 2963)

The clone son becomes Boba Fett, right? So we don't see him until later. The clone army becomes the army that is presumably fighting alongside the Jedi. I don't want to give too much away.

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dizzy lizzy - Jun 6, 2005 3:46 pm (#14 of 2963)

A new thread!!!! yippee yippee yay.

I feel heaps better today, I think my body is finally knocking over this persistent bug.

My new workload starts today so this morning is made up of Telephone Interviews and then I drive three hours to my work area and spend three days doing the Face to Face interviews.

Given I am still not 100% I think I will sleep very well tonight.

I've always wanted to go overseas and explore the world. My medical history is such that no company will insure me for travel insurance unless they double the premium and include a fat whopping excess.

So I decided it just wasn't worth it and I've yet to visit all the states in Australia. The net helps now - allows me to go visiting the world without having to worry about pesky little matters such as passports and travel insurance.

I'll see you all when I get back. Have a wonderful week every one of you and leave me plenty of posts to read!

Lizzy

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Marè - Jun 6, 2005 4:07 pm (#15 of 2963)

Hey Lizzy, I think if you are stuck in a part of the world and you can't travel anywhere ele, australia doesn't sound too bad.
A friend and I are trying to arrange an internship there now, but it's not going very smoothly...

I'm trying not to react to all the star wars thingies, but I went to my geekie state after the seeing the movie and had lots of fun finding all kinds of nitpicky stuff on the net.

I ended up reading the original scripts of the prequel trilogy. It helped a lot. Mon motha, for example, was supposed to be in quite some scenes, but most of them got cut.

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timrew - Jun 6, 2005 4:16 pm (#16 of 2963)

Happy Birthday, Snuffles! 30 was 25 years ago to me, so I don't remember it at all!

But I'm still here, and still typing out these messages.

Trouble is, I don't know where 'here' is or what my messages are!

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Springtime - Jun 6, 2005 7:16 pm (#17 of 2963)

Happy Birthday Snuffles. I remenber 30 it was a great year. Have a good one.

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Julia. - Jun 6, 2005 8:02 pm (#18 of 2963)

T-Bright-The clone son, Boba Fett, grew up to become a bounty hunter like his father. He was the one who took Han Solo to Jabba at the end of Empire Strikes Back. The clone army continued being employed by the Empire until it's destruction. They were the strom troupers in the Origional Trilogy. I wonder what happened to the Droid army though. Perhaps Mike can shed some light on the situation?

Oh yes, and HAPPY BIRTHDAY SNUFFLES!!! *hands Snuffles butterbeer* Hope you have a great day and an amazing year. I'd put some cool smilies here, but my computer is transfering files from a friend, and uploading photos to my photobucket account, which is making everything move very slowly. So just pretend that there are smiley faces wishing you a happy birthday.

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lemonbalm&bees - Jun 6, 2005 8:35 pm (#19 of 2963)

Eponine- scourgify? That seems to work for most nasty messes. Although, if all you need to do is tidy up a few things, perhaps a variant on Tonks' packing charm. Just wave around any old pointy object and I'm sure things will take care of themselves.

Well, today was an eventful day for me. I started work at a smoothie shop, and suceeded in covering the floor with blended strawberries and bananas and burning about a dozen cookies. But I'm not worried; it was only the first day, right? I'm only taking one class this summer. Students who have just completed the conducting course have the option to rehearse and conduct a piece with the band during the summer, and I just went to pick up my score today. If anyone is familiar with Percy Grainger's "Handel in the Strand," please think of me kindly. It's not a particularly difficult piece to conduct, but I am somewhat of a beginner. Practicing today reminded me of the first day we used our batons in class. Half of us twenty-something "mature young adults" were in fits of excitement shouting things like "accio John!" at witch point John would dash across the room to your side. "Expelliaramus!" meant that whomever you were pointing to had to drop their baton, and if someone "wingardium leviosa-d" you, you had to wobble slightly as you rose out of your chair. Good to know us furute educators will never really grow up.    

Happy Birthday to you, Snuffles. Mine is the seventh, so we can celebrate together at midnight. I'm not big on crazy celebrations, so I only plan to eat Mexican food with all of my "brothers and sisters" and grin as I hand my drivers liscense to the nice man bringing me the Margarita. My boyfriend's on vacation in Italy right now, and I find it hard not to miss him even while in the company of so many friends. Wish me luck in band tomorrow! Hope everyone's having a great week!

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Phoenix song - Jun 6, 2005 8:35 pm (#20 of 2963)

Hello everybody! I thank you all so very much for your kind wishes and thoughts after my A/C fire yesterday. It means more to me than I can possibly express! I got some of my first laughs since then, and it warms me to feel so cared about and loved. Thanks!

The persistent smell of burnt plastic still lingers about the place, but not as much as yesterday. I consider myself lucky that the yucky smell is the worst of my lingering affects. I've been playing a mental game with myself regarding the smell, though. I've been wondering if this is the same type of "acrid" smell that erupted from Colin Creevey's burnt camera in CoS. It somehow seems more bearable to imagine that it is! ("You know that you're a Harry Potter fan when you have a small fire inside of your home, and you go about your day wondering if the burnt smell is the same smell that erupted from Colin's camera.") Yeah, I'm off of my rocker, but at least I'm not alone!

I had quite a nice delivery today. The shipment of supplies that I need to bake/decorate the "infamous" wedding cake arrived via UPS. I was quite satisfied to see that the "dummy cake" that I'd ordered for the fake bottom layer is of a nicely dense-consistency styrofoam. It should make for quite a laugh if the bride decides to cut into it.

I also had an unusual request from my brother-in-law regarding his groom's cake today. If you'll remember, his future bride insists that I make a cake in the shape of a semi-truck. The groom, however, has always insisted that he'd rather have a homemade Pecan Pie. She was appalled at the very thought!

This afternoon the groom called and asked me to make the Pecan pie anyway. He feels that as it's supposed to be his cake, that it should be a desert of his choosing. After some discussion, he's asked me to make two sizes of pecan pies, and tier them up like a wedding cake. Then on top of them, he wants to put one of those little mini-pecan pies (like from Little Debbie), and put a little, tiny bride and groom on top. He thinks that it's going to be hilarious to have a 3-tiered, pecan pie "wedding" cake right next to this elaborately done 5-layered wedding cake. I have to agree. I think that it'll be so funny! Let's face it, people won't remember a thing about the wedding cake except that it was very large. People will be talking about this tiered pecan pie wedding cake with little bitty lego people on top for years to come.

He wants to keep it as a secret from the bride, since she's so demanding in the wedding plans and will surely throw a fit. I'm more than willing to keep one more secret in addition to the fake-cake layer. This pecan pie cake is going to be a hoot! I'll be sure to attach a picture of that one as well.

Again, thanks for being so wonderful to me! I really appreciate it very much!

Snuffles, I hope that you've had a wonderful birthday today. I'm sorry that I didn't log on to wish it to you earlier, but we've been without electricity most of the day due to the weather. It sounds like you were able to enjoy a lovely trip, though!

Barbie

Edit: Lemonbalm & bees, Happy birthday tomorrow! I hope that you have a wonderful one, and find the day blessed with luck, health and happiness!

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Eponine - Jun 6, 2005 9:02 pm (#21 of 2963)

Barbie, pecan pie groom's cake? What a great idea! Don't tell the bride, though. That would just get her all worked up.

Our groom's cake was served the night before the wedding at the rehearsal dinner because it was a special recipe that only his grandmother can make, and apparently no one thought there'd be enough to go around at the reception. **whispers** It's a good cake, but I don't see what all the fuss is about. Don't tell Mr. Eponine.

Lemonbalm&bees, Percy Grainger? I suppose Hermione might be the type to make her husband take her last name.

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Madam Pince - Jun 6, 2005 9:25 pm (#22 of 2963)

From several posts ago.... "Barbie-Q" ***Snort!***

****After hearing about the pecan groom's cake, and already waiting with bated breath for the bride to cut into the styrofoam, Madam Pince is dying to be a fly on the wall at this wedding!****

For goodness sake, be sure to have your video camera with you at the reception, Barbie! Things could get priceless!

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lemonbalm&bees - Jun 6, 2005 9:44 pm (#23 of 2963)

Eponine, in referencing my composer, are you insinuating that you are a Hermione/Percy shipper? Because, strangely enough, I don't think I've heard that one yet. But, yes, she does seem to be the one to (hate this phrase) "wear the pants." haha

And thanks for the well wishes, Phoenix song

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Lina - Jun 6, 2005 10:53 pm (#24 of 2963)

Happy birthday, lemonbalm&bees! It is your birthday already here.

I am looking forward to the pictures of the cakes!

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Julia. - Jun 6, 2005 11:41 pm (#25 of 2963)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY LEMONBALM&BEES! *hands lemon butterbeer* Hope you have a great day and an amazing year. *insert smilies here*

On Sunday I went into New York with my friends for the Salute to Israel parade. We had a blast and took lots of pictures. If anyone's interesting, I posted my pictures on my Live Journal.

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Cornelia - Jun 7, 2005 12:17 am (#26 of 2963)

Happy belated Birthday Snuffles!! Happy Birthday lemonbalm&bees!!

We go to the doctor today. Both kids have fever and red dots (spots) everywhere. First we thought it´s an allergic reaction because for two days only Quirin was spotted, but now Victoria has joind the club.

I hope we grown-ups stay healthy. I have planned to go on a horse-riding trip in South Estonia this weekend. But I might have to cancel it because hubby has a meeting on Saturday and he can´t bring two sick kids with him. But if I look out of the window and see how bad the weather is I´m almost happy to have a good excuse not to go...

Have a nice day!!

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septentrion - Jun 7, 2005 12:29 am (#27 of 2963)

Happy birthday Snuffles and lemonbalm&bees ! Have a great day !

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Snuffles - Jun 7, 2005 12:39 am (#28 of 2963)

Thank you everybody for the birthday wishes. I feel all warm and fuzzy now Happy birthday lemonbalm&bees, hope you have a great day.

Barbie, I think you will have to open an internet page with the wedding video on so we can all watch. I have never looked forward to a wedding so much when I'm not even invited!!!

Cornelia, hope your children get better soon. Hope everyone has a good day.

Julie

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The giant squid - Jun 7, 2005 1:55 am (#29 of 2963)

sniff sniff Ahh...that New Chat Thread smell!  

I don't often write in them except for school books, but our library does have our books divided into genres and alphabetized by author and placed in order of publication date. But if the author has written a series in addition to other books, the series is placed together, and the other books are sorted according to publication date.—Elanor

What? You mean everyone doesn't do this?

I wonder what happened to the Droid army though. Perhaps Mike can shed some light on the situation?—Julia

I have no idea, honestly, unless they were simply phased out in favor of the clone troopers/stormtroopers. Maybe cloning is cheaper than droid assemly lines? And yes, the clone troopers from Ep. II-III are supposedly the stormtroopers from IV-VI, which makes Leia's line to Luke (in stolen ST gear) "Aren't you a little short for a stormtrooper?" all the more poignant--if they're all cloned from the same guy, they'd all be the same size.

*hugs Betty*

--Mike

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Lupin is Lupin. Natch. - Jun 7, 2005 3:53 am (#30 of 2963)

**looks around for Catherine and wonders if she's still dealing with the regurgitating pipes**

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librarian314 - Jun 7, 2005 5:20 am (#31 of 2963)

Hey all!

Snuffles and Lemonbalm and bees - Happy Birthday! :hpb:

Phoenix song - The tiered pecan pie with the bride and groom on top sounds absolutely delightful! Glad someone has a sense of humour!

Y'all take care!

**michelle the librarian**

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Springtime - Jun 7, 2005 5:28 am (#32 of 2963)

Happy birthday lemonbalm and bees! hope it's a great one.

I also looking forward to photo's of a pecan pie wedding cake should be interesting.

Have a great day everyone:)

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Chemyst - Jun 7, 2005 5:44 am (#33 of 2963)

Hey Barbie, I "tiered up" with giggles over the pecan pie. Maybe the top could be a matchbox semi with bride & groom faces painted on the windshield.
( I'm very happy to see the groom showing some spunk and saying what he wants. )

Happy birthday lemon b&b.

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Eponine - Jun 7, 2005 6:00 am (#34 of 2963)

Happy Birthday, Lemon B&B. And no, I'm not a Percy/Hermione shipper. I just found the name amusing.

Mike, I can't believe everyone doesn't do that with their libraries either. I also have a difficult time loaning books out. But that's probably because I have a few books in my library that actually belong to someone else.

My best friend is flying in today! Whee!

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Loopy Lupin - Jun 7, 2005 6:07 am (#35 of 2963)

Fleur: "After being in my 30's for almost 4 years (will be 33 on June 29)" Well, now that's old! I'll be 33 only on September 8th... (just kidding!) – Elanor

Guys, 30 is quite easy to deal with; just don't concede to "thirty" being part of your age. Indeed, one may remain twenty-something forever. Observe: I was born in 1969. Am I thirty-six? No, no, no. I'm twenty-sixteen.

So, happy twenty-tenth birthday to Snuffles.

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Snuffles - Jun 7, 2005 6:13 am (#36 of 2963)

Thank you Loopy! I feel so much better now

All I have to do now is convince my body I'm still in my twenties and not to even think of starting to head south!!!

Julie

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Chemyst - Jun 7, 2005 6:17 am (#37 of 2963)

Umm, Loopy, what comes after twenty-twenty?
(Please don't say glasses.)

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Marie E. - Jun 7, 2005 6:23 am (#38 of 2963)

LOL, Chemyst! I noticed that my last glasses prescription was lower than before. This is not a good thing because it means my eyes are slowly becoming far-sideded rather than near-sighted. My doctor says reading glasses are in my near future. WAH!!!!

We are taking our class to a bug museum today. This place has tons of insects from all over the world in glass cases. I think it's a pretty cool place, but I need to keep Lexie in the butterfly section and far, far away from the giant spider aisle unless I want her sleeping in my bed at 3:00am.

Happy Birthday lemonbalm&bees and happy late birthday to Snuffles!

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Loopy Lupin - Jun 7, 2005 6:34 am (#39 of 2963)

Umm, Loopy, what comes after twenty-twenty? – Chemyst

Mmmm. I don't know. I haven't had 20/20 for at least twenty-twelve years. (I got glasses when I was four.)

Just kidding. Twenty-twenty-one of course. :goofygrin:

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applepie - Jun 7, 2005 7:16 am (#40 of 2963)

Loopy, I would say you are 30 with 6 years experience, or 20 with 16 years experience, if you prefer that...

HAPPY BIRTHDAY LEMONBALM & BEES!!!!!!!! Best wishes for a wonderful day.

Barbie, the groom's cake sounds absolutely wonderful! I love the idea. Definitely keep it secret. I'd love to see bridezilla's face when she realizes you two have conspired against her while having to maintain her dignity as the bride.

Cornelia, hope the kids are feeling better. It's no fun being sick, or having sick kids for that matter. Best wishes for speedy recovery.

Off to post....

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Steve Newton - Jun 7, 2005 7:20 am (#41 of 2963)

So that means that I'm thirty with 25...Oh, why drag up the past?

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applepie - Jun 7, 2005 7:23 am (#42 of 2963)

Steve, the question is...Do you feel 30 with 25 years experience????? Sometimes I feel as though I am, so it doesn't make a bit of difference that I am 20 with 10 years experience.

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Lina - Jun 7, 2005 7:36 am (#43 of 2963)

Cornelia, I hope your kids are O.K.!

Chemyst: Umm, Loopy, what comes after twenty-twenty?
I don't see the problem. I even found Katarina, when she was 3ish, counting twenty-twenty-one, twenty-twenty-two... (almost French) Uhm, does it mean that French do not have problems with aging until they are forty?

My daughter (Veronika) came happy from school today. They had an exam (Technical education) and she didn't know almost anything, but the boy sitting close to her didn't know either and kept asking the other boy for answers. All she had to do, was listening to them and write. The asking boy knew only one answer by himself, so she couldn't answer that question and got 4 (that would be B, 5 is A). Beside the teacher who obviously doesn't take his subject too seriously, the interesting part is that the asking boy got 5 and the answering boy got 4, it seems that he didn't know the answer to the only question the asking boy knew.

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B]Madam Pince[/B] - Jun 7, 2005 8:24 am (#44 of 2963)

I agree with Chemyst about the groom in The Wedding -- clearly he has an excellent sense of humor and very broad shoulders, else the proposal probably wouldn't have happened in the first place. I have a feeling that everything will be fine! Let's hope the bride will get over herself and see the humor in everything! (Side note: last night I was skimming channels, and on one of those "women's networks" **hate that term, by the way** they had a show called "Bridezillas." I couldn't bear to watch, but I thought of you, Barbie!)

Happy Birthday, lemonbalm & bees!

Cornelia, hope your little ones get well soon! ***sends Cheering and Get Healthy charms, since having sickeys is never any fun for Mom, either!***

For my next birthday, I think I shall be twenty-one-twenty-one, rather than twenty-twenty-two. Then I can go out and celebrate with two Long Island Iced Teas, to remind me of my first twenty-first birthday! (For those UVA grads, the auspicious occasion was held at Sophie's on the Corner, which now is some sort of sandwich shoppe a few doors below Mincer's, I believe, but at the time was THE happenin' dance place...) Oh goodness -- will I really be twice the age I was then???? Oh dear..... How did that happen???

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Finn BV - Jun 7, 2005 8:43 am (#45 of 2963)

Happy Birthday, lemonbalm&bees!

I have nothing to worry about. I just say I'm 12 and that's good enough for me.

Cornelia, hope your kids recover. Thankfully, I had chicken pox when I was 3 months old and I didn't feel a thing. :-) (Not to rub it in or anything… no pun intended)

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lemonbalm&bees - Jun 7, 2005 9:00 am (#46 of 2963)

I would like to thank everyone (and I'm sure snuffles would join me) for all their birthday wishes. I check the forum before I go to rehearsal, and it really brightened things up!

Cornelia, I do hope your kids turn out to have nothing serious. Although, it might be a blessing in disguise to have them both sick at the same time. I remember chicken pox as a kid: the assurance that you would get it once and only once, the younger the better. When one of us came down with it, my mom had us stay near the sick one. Eventually, we all contracted it. We stayed home from school and took turns in the oatmeal bath. It seems strange for her to want to get her kids sick, but we were the only lucky family that only had to go through chicken pox once! So good luck Cornelia!

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septentrion - Jun 7, 2005 9:47 am (#47 of 2963)

Lina : I even found Katarina, when she was 3ish, counting twenty-twenty-one, twenty-twenty-two... (almost French) Uhm, does it mean that French do not have problems with aging until they are forty?

Hem, we don't count like that. We have a "forty" in French. However, we have kept a medieval way of saying numbers when it comes to seventy, eighty and ninety : we say "sixty-ten" for seventy, "four-twenty" for eighty, and "four-twenty-ten" for ninety. 99 is told "four-twenty-ten-nine". Quite tricky, isn't it ? The Belgian are more rational and say "septante", "nonante", but I don't remember if they say "octante" or "four-twenty". It comes from Middle-Ages, when people didn't count by ten but by twenty (hope that last part is understandable).

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Elanor - Jun 7, 2005 9:55 am (#48 of 2963)

Happy birthday Lemonbalm&bees!

Wow, this thread starts at top speed! I'm going to try and forget nothing I wanted to say!

Lina, it would be great to see you next time you go to Taizé! I hope you will be able to convince your family one of those days. Maybe I could send you some French recipes so that your daughters get used to the food (there is nothing like a chocolate cake to appreciate foreign cooking, nobody resists that...).

Barbie, I too would love to see pictures of that wedding! Has the bride the slightest idea that her wedding is now worldwide famous?

Cornelia, I hope your children will be better soon!

Mike, about the droid army, I believe the Emperor asks Anakin to give on order to make the droids dismantled at the end of episode III, when Anakin tells him he has "finished his work" on Mustafar, just before Padmé arrives. Or at least, it is what I understood, but I can be wrong! "the clone troopers from Ep. II-III are supposedly the stormtroopers from IV-VI, which makes Leia's line to Luke (in stolen ST gear) "Aren't you a little short for a stormtrooper?" all the more poignant . . .

I do agree! It also makes the new clone "production" of "The Thrawn trilogy" even creepier, don't you think so?

Loopy Lupin "Guys, 30 is quite easy to deal with; just don't concede to "thirty" being part of your age. Indeed, one may remain twenty-something forever. Observe: I was born in 1969. Am I thirty-six? No, no, no. I'm twenty-sixteen."

LOL! I should do that too! Anyway, Lina is right, some French people can do that in real because, in French, you don't say "seventy" but "sixty-ten, sixty-eleven..." till "eighty", that we say "four-twenty" (quatre-vingt), four-twenty-one, four-twenty-too... and then there is not "ninety" but "four-twenty-ten" (quatre-vingt-dix), four-twenty-eleven...

Today was quiet at school because there were no kids there! A famous cycling stage race arrived today in Chauffailles, the town I work in, and schools were closed, though the teachers had to go there all the same (or try to because it was not easy to drive in town today!) Boring meetings were planned for us. And boring indeed they were... But I was able to go out of school early enough to see the finish of the stage, it was great! I love cycling! Any other cycling lovers here? My brother used to race in my region and the "tour de France" had always been sacred at home, as far as I remember. I could name more passes of the Alps or Pyrennées than anyone else at school when I was a kid thanks to the "tour"!

Today's race, the "critérium du Dauphiné" is important because it is the last long race in which the cyclists who want to make good results in the "tour de France" can test themselves, and the others... I know Lance Armstrong started it very well! He won it several times in the past, before the "tour". BTW, I hope he will be able to win the 7th tour this year, it would be unique!

Have a great day everybody!

Edit: LOL Sept! We crossposted about the numbers! **waving**

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Loopy Lupin - Jun 7, 2005 9:59 am (#49 of 2963)

I have nothing to worry about. I just say I'm 12 and that's good enough for me. -- fbv807

There is a saying about "youth" and "the young," but my aging memory can't quite recall it at the moment.

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T Brightwater - Jun 7, 2005 10:16 am (#50 of 2963)

Happy birthday, Lemonbalmandbees! BTW, lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) is a great addition to green tea. Can't help you with Percy G, he's way after my (musical) time. :-)

Amilia, does your friend offer a Star Wars refresher course? It's been so long since I've seen the "first" trilogy that I've forgotten most of it. (I have no recollection of who Mon Mothma is/was, though I still remember Princess Leia telling Chewbacca "Out of my way, you walking carpet!" - surely a line that needs a "Do not try this at home" label...)

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Phoenix song - Jun 7, 2005 10:47 am (#51 of 2963)

Barbie, I too would love to see pictures of that wedding! Has the bride the slightest idea that her wedding is now worldwide famous? Elanor

Umm... Actually, no, she doesn't. And I have to admit that I'm a bit leery of her finding out! (Terrified, actually!) I can't see her finding the least bit of humor in any of this!

She's actually quite a smart, sweet, and until recently, sensible girl. I had always found her to be overly shy, moderate, temperate, and unassuming before the wedding planning began. Who'd have thought that there was an absolute tigress hidden within her meek exterior? I hope that she will revert once more to being "easy going" and less "self-serious" after the wedding is complete.

I understand the desire to have a "perfect" wedding, but there's no such thing, honestly. The best that you can hope for is to minimize the chaos and enjoy the process as best as possible. I've been using you guys for humor and the release of tension associated with this event, hoping to keep most of my bitingly sarcastic comments to myself. Laughing about this all to everyone has helped me to cope and continue without expressing my views to the betrothed. I've enjoyed laughing about it and seeing the humor in the situation. I don't think that she would be very amused, though. She doesn't seem to be anything other than dead serious and totally determined when it comes to the wedding planning.

Chemyst: You've had me rolling on the floor laughing two days in a row! The thought of you "tiering" up with laughter and changing my name to "Barbie-Q" are just too funny! Thanks for the giggles. I think that your idea of a matchbox semi with painted bride and groom is a perfect one! I'm going to have to run it by the groom. He does have a sense of humor about it all, and I am proud of him for standing up for certain things in the planning. It bodes well for the marriage that she's not the only one with a spine.

I'm afraid that I don't have a clue of how to post video of the reception. I've grown by leaps and bounds computer-wise in the past year, but I've never even posted a picture on the forum before! I'm afraid that I'll need help just getting pictures of the cakes on-line! I hope that she will be so happy and so relieved after the wedding vows are complete that she will find humor, happiness, and joy in the reception. She might as well learn to deal with her husband's sense of humor, since men are so unlikely to change!

Thanks for the laughs, guys!
Barbie-Q

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KWeldon - Jun 7, 2005 11:25 am (#52 of 2963)

To beat the Star Wars discussion to death, here's my question. When Leia tells Luke in ROTJ that she has memories of her mother, and that all she remembers is that she is very sad, is that just proof that Lucas was making the whole thing up as he went along?

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I Am Used Vlad - Jun 7, 2005 11:44 am (#53 of 2963)

On the aging thing, I just live by the creed "You're only young once, but you can be immature for your whole life." It has worked well for twenty and thirteen years.

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GryffEndora - Jun 7, 2005 11:45 am (#54 of 2963)

Hey everybody!!! *Waves to all my Forum friends*

Thank you all for the absolution and understanding about the audiobooks. I truly felt ashamed to say I haven't read the 1st 4 books. The reason I still know them so well is that I take my listening very seriously. The first time through each book all I did was listen. Well, actually the first time I listened to SS I was waiting for my mom to get out of same day surgery. I was so hooked I didn't take the head phones off until I had to get the discharge instructions. I listened in the car as I drove home, in the grocery store as I stopped to get her soup and continued the rest of the day. I fact I listened to SS twice that day then the next day and soon ran out to get the others on tape. SS was a Christmas gift I brought for mom but I listened to it first. She listened soon after and we were both hooked. I used to live 1 hour away from school and the bi-weekly trips home were always Harry Potter filled. I listen in the car, at home doing housework, and at night when I go to bed, Jim Dale reads me to sleep and continues all night until I wake up. Once I got the CDs, (which I prefer for many reasons including that the first CD editions contain all the book illustrations), I put them all in my iTunes and on my iPod. I plan on having the entire series on my iPod one day. The iPod plugs into my stereo and I just pick which book and where to start then off to bed I go. With all of that repetition it's easy to pick up on details. I know some sections by heart.

Elanor - I know what you mean about reading versus listening. OotP I read before getting the CDs. Once I heard it it took me a while before I was OK with how Jim Dale read parts. It's nice to be able to set your own pace and phrasing.

Julia - It looks like you had a blast at the parade. Now, who is this Greg? Are you dating? He's good looking, you dance well together, make a cute couple! I can't put my finger on it but something about his picture made me think that he is a "Nice Jewish Boy".

Ydnam96 - Have a safe trip.

Phoenix Song - I'm so glad everyone and everything is safe after your fire. I guess you have the right name after all! Who else but Phoenix could come out of a fire unscathed! Your book abuse is absolved. I am trying to give myself permission to mark up my books. I'm fine writing in scripts but somehow books seem untouchable unless it's a text book, them you highlight and underline away.

fbv807 - Congrats on the grades!

Denise - I bet the CDs made the hospital time more bareable. That is one of the things I love about these books. Jo has created this amazing world that is so easy to escape into. It's nice to take a break from reality every once in a while.

Snuffles & lemonbalm&bees - HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!

Eponine - the only cleaning spells I know are "scourgify" and "call-merry-maids-ify". Hope the company goes well.

Cornelia - I hope the kids are ok. I had chicken pox when I was 3 and I don't remember much except they gave me one scar and weird dreams. I still remember being on a cruise with all of the muppet characters except the cruise ship was a giant whale but it still had windows and decks and a blow hole! When I was 12ish I got this rash of spots that were on my chest in the shape of a Christmas tree. Come to find out this is a common thing called Piti-riosis Rosia (spelling?) so if the dots form a Christmas tree it could be that.

Loopy Lupin - Thank you for the Oscar Wilde!!! You made my day!!! I played Lady Bracknell in a college production of The Importance of Being Earnest and absolutely loved it.

Well, I think I've caught up with everyone but if I missed you, have a Butterbeer on me!

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Lupin is Lupin. Natch. - Jun 7, 2005 12:14 pm (#55 of 2963)

Loopy, nice avatar. Do you know what his last words supposedly were?

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Loopy Lupin - Jun 7, 2005 12:23 pm (#56 of 2963)

Well, I have seen some dispute about that. One site says it was: "Either that wallpaper goes, or I do."

I have also seen that upon being given champagne he said: "I am dying as I lived, beyond my means."

I like the first one, personally.

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Lupin is Lupin. Natch. - Jun 7, 2005 12:24 pm (#57 of 2963)

Me too.

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GryffEndora - Jun 7, 2005 12:31 pm (#58 of 2963)

I had only heard the one about the wallpaper myself. I love that line!

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Lina - Jun 7, 2005 1:20 pm (#59 of 2963)

Elanor, you can count on my notification (and hopefully meeting) when we come to your neighborhood. No way it could happen this summer, though. I have become very hard on taking trips since I got kids and started to understand my mother much better. I have decided recently that the children are growing up and that we should start moving. Therefore, my first plans are going to Venice and we started with doing passports for the kids (we haven't ordered them yet, just the documents needed to order the passports) and I expect that going to Fuzine in meantime is going to help.

I really sort of hoped that 39 in French would be vingt-dix-neuf. Maybe that's some extra old French because I think I remember the teacher mentioning something like that.

Barbie: She's actually quite a smart, sweet, and until recently, sensible girl. I had always found her to be overly shy, moderate, temperate, and unassuming before the wedding planning began.
Well, I started to gain weight when we settled the wedding date (and haven't stopped ever since), maybe she started to let her temper out? O.K. I don't want to scare you, I hope it is just a stressfull period.

I have to wake up very early tomorrow, for my last test for now. I will be gone the whole day. I'm already Forum-sick (I mean like home-sick, not like sea-sick). Good night, good day to everybody!

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Madam Pince - Jun 7, 2005 1:34 pm (#60 of 2963)

Barbie, every time I read something on here about The Wedding, I am reminded of one of the funniest stories I have ever heard. It is just a bit too long to recount here, because you have to read his every word to make it work, but I would strongly recommend that you find the book "It Was On Fire When I Lay Down On It" by Robert Fulghum, and read the second chapter. It is about The Perfect Wedding, and you will be crying laughing when you finish. The library should have it if you don't want to buy right away, but I guarantee you'll enjoy it and want to own it.

For those who aren't familiar with Fulghum's books, there are four or five of them, and they are all comprised of short chapters, each of which is a brief "life-morals story" that is fun and easy to read. They are very insightful, and great to read right before bedtime because the chapters are so short and you can stop at any time without losing the thread, because they are all independent of each other. In this particular story, it is the Mother of the Bride (the MOTB) rather than the bride herself who is being...shall we say....difficult. It is hysterical, but all turns out well in the end. I give it two thumbs up -- highly recommended.

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applepie - Jun 7, 2005 1:45 pm (#61 of 2963)

Madam Pince, thanks for the book suggestion. I requsted it online from the local library. Hopefully I'll have it by the end of the week.

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Gina R Snape - Jun 7, 2005 2:02 pm (#62 of 2963)

KWeldon, I kind of got the impression she had made-up 'sensory' memories based on things she'd heard about her mother and possibly something spiritual coming from Padme's emotional state during pregnancy. After all, the people who took Leia in knew Padme, right?

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Amilia Smith - Jun 7, 2005 2:02 pm (#63 of 2963)

Elanor: I love cycling! I have followed the Tour de France on television for the past several years, and this year discovered that the same channel that shows the Tour also shows many of the other big European races. So I had been enjoying "Cyclism Sundays" before my move. To tell the truth, that is the main reason I am missing my television. It must be wonderful to be able to watch the races live.

I have done enough bicycle riding myself to be absolutely amazed at these men who can ride for 6+ hours at a time, up and down mountains, day after day after day. I think they must be the best athletes in the world.

The cable channel that shows the Tour had a contest last year to win a bike tour through France. I entered faithfully, every day. I didn't win, of course, but I got on the e-mail list so that the channel reminds me whenever they are going to show a race. Wouldn't that be the perfect way to see the country, though? On a bike? You'd be able to see so much more than you would from a tour bus window.

Mills.

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KWeldon - Jun 7, 2005 2:10 pm (#64 of 2963)

KWeldon, I kind of got the impression she had made-up 'sensory' memories based on things she'd heard about her mother and possibly something spiritual coming from Padme's emotional state during pregnancy. After all, the people who took Leia in knew Padme, right?

Gina, I'm sure that's an explanation, although the cynic in me is not sure Lucas can come up with such emotional depth. (love his movies, by the way!)

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T Brightwater - Jun 7, 2005 2:12 pm (#65 of 2963)

One of my college roommates spent the week before her wedding arguing with her dressmaker, her hairdresser, her mother, her mother-in-law-to-be, and two sets of caterers (in each case trying to make her own statement versus _their_ view of "the perfect wedding" or at least the "normal" one) while another friend and I fought with a Laura Ashley pattern (too many ruffles) and a fabric with a one-way design (takes three times as long to cut out) to make the bridesmaid's dress, which we finished 45 minutes before the ceremony, and that was only because we left off the second layer of ruffles. We told the bridesmaid she'd have to have surgery a la Cinderella's stepsisters if the dress didn't fit. Actually it ended up being quite a nice ceremony, (especially the music **smirk**) and the carrot cake at the reception was wonderful.

After the bride and groom departed, the other assistant and I played House-Elf and cleaned up their apartment, which took until 4:00 am. We were counting on being able to sleep late the next day, but the contractors who were resurfacing the parking lot across the street had other ideas. Jackhammers at 6:30 am! (Who was it who said that no good deed goes unpunished?)

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timrew - Jun 7, 2005 4:18 pm (#66 of 2963)

I thought Oscar Wilde's last words were, "Why are you burying me?"

But, I must admit, I love the one about the wallpaper. In fact, I wish I'd said it forty years ago, when my parents papered the lounge.

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boop - Jun 7, 2005 5:30 pm (#67 of 2963)

Happy Birthday LemonB&B, hope you had a very nice day!!

*Hugs back Mike*

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Puck - Jun 7, 2005 6:45 pm (#68 of 2963)

Hello All! Happy Birthday to those I missed.

Had another ultra sound today, so fun to see my baby!

Hot and humid again. It's going to be a long, hot , pregnant summer.

Have a great day all.

Kathy

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fleur-de-lys - Jun 7, 2005 7:07 pm (#69 of 2963)

Loopy, "twenty-sixteen" I love it. I'm going to remember that. I should have thought of it sooner though. Whenever the munchkin counts to thirty, he goes from twenty-nine to twenty-ten. So i am now twenty-twelve. But would that make my mom twenty-forty-eight? Thanks for the boost, I do love it. You really can come up with some clever remarks sometimes. Tee hee!

Happy Birthday lemomB&B! Hope I'm not too late.

Well, our internet is up and running. We had some problems after a HUGE storm last nite, but now everything is back to normal. Well, as normal as things get around here. But, hey, normal is a setting on your dishwasher. I still have yet to get to see Star Wars, so I am skimming those posts quickly. The hubby wants to rewatch the first 5 before we go and see it, so it may be a few weeks, considering we don't own the first two (actually that last two the put out) and need to rent them. Must put them on the Netflix list. I think I'll go do that now.

Luv N Mush, Lori

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TwinklingBlueEyes      - Jun 7, 2005 7:09 pm (#70 of 2963)

Robert Fulghum - I absoultely love him! Shoot low boys, they riding Shetland ponies!" I think is from "Maybe, Maybe Not"

...toddles off to look now...

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Julia. - Jun 7, 2005 7:46 pm (#71 of 2963)

Julia - It looks like you had a blast at the parade. Now, who is this Greg? Are you dating? He's good looking, you dance well together, make a cute couple! I can't put my finger on it but something about his picture made me think that he is a "Nice Jewish Boy."—Gryffendora
Why Gryffendora, what could ever make you think that Greg is a Nice Jewish boy? Actually, he's a good friend of mine, and we're not dating, although I can't say I'd mind if we were.

I wonder how many different ways there are to phrase my age. Ten-nine sounds a little young, even for me. I think I'll stick with ninteen.

On the Star Wars front, I'm actually wondering if Leia knows she's adopted. Her last name is Organa, not Skywalker, and she had no idea she has a brother. Any chance that the "real mother" she was talking about is Bail Organa's wife (who doesn't actually have a name).

Kathy, it cannot be fun to be pregnant while it's 90 degrees out. I know that when my mum was pregnant with me (I was born in September, so she was very pregnant during the summer) she spent all her time either inside with the air conditioning, or at the beach in the water.

I think I'm going to go read some Shakespeare now. Have a good evening everyone.

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KWeldon - Jun 7, 2005 7:52 pm (#72 of 2963)

Julia, no, Leia recognizes that she was adopted. She and Luke discuss being brother and sister in ROTJ. She says something like, "I think I've known all along," which made me gag, considering the kiss she gave him in Ep V.

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Julia. - Jun 7, 2005 11:02 pm (#73 of 2963)

So, now that my Smiley Central is working again, and it's 2:00 my time...

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SARAH!!!!!!!!!!!(Scully) *hands Sarah butterbeer* Hope you have a great day and an amazing year!!!

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The giant squid - Jun 8, 2005 12:09 am (#74 of 2963)

Now, KWeldon, it was just "for luck"...

I understand the desire to have a "perfect" wedding, but there's no such thing, honestly. The best that you can hope for is to minimize the chaos and enjoy the process as best as possible.--Phoenix Song

I can agree with that! Over a year of planning, preparing, replanning...and I watched the video saying, "When did that happen?" repeatedly. Of the four hour reception I remember maybe 20 minutes.

Happy Birthday, Scully! Make sure Brandon takes you someplace nice.

--Mike

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Snuffles - Jun 8, 2005 1:43 am (#75 of 2963)

Happy Wednesday everyone

A quick question, does anyone have any ideas on how to keep a 2 year old occupied on a 4 1/2 hour plane journey? We are flying to Cyprus on hols on Sunday (Woopee!!) and I'm dreading keeping her from destroying the plane! any advice and ideas would be greatly appreciated.

Puck, are you finding out if your baby is a boy or a girl?, I don't envy you being pregnant over the summer. At least you have the perfect excuse to indulge on icecream though!

Hope everyone has a good day

Julie

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Cornelia - Jun 8, 2005 1:56 am (#76 of 2963)
Edited Jun 8, 2005 2:56 am

Julie - good question! We always take one or two favorite books and one or two new ones (as surprise) to read to them. We take also paper and crayons or paintbooks(?). Maybe she can pack a little backpack herself to take on board, ours love that and pack their favorite stuff themselfes like cars and little ponies...on longer flights we even take Lego or Playmobil (classic german systemtoy) not much, only some pieces.

We have been to Cyprus some years ago, it was a GOOOD holiday!! Hope your is at least as good as ours!!!Head reisi!

Edit: MaeMae are you still around? Where in Estonia do you live? Just found your post in the Tell about yourself thread...we live in Tallinn

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Thora - Jun 8, 2005 2:37 am (#77 of 2963)

Julie-mini magna-doodles and the $100 tiny dvd player from walmart.

Puck- this sounds weird but honestly helps, try cooling off with cool water in your ear canal, that's how I survived bicycleing in 114 degree weather in Arizona.

Barbie- Put a little pure vanilla extract in water and wash your walls with it.

GryffEndora- I listen all the time too (wanted to send my kindred spirit a greeting and a smile)

And if anyone notes the time on my post, no I didn't change time zones I just had an awful dream to dispell before I could continue my night of horrible sleep. There's only one thing to do at 5 a.m. when you can't go back to sleep!

Goodnight-morning-whatever.

Thora

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Marè - Jun 8, 2005 3:01 am (#78 of 2963)

Our paper had an interesting picture today of several "bridezilla's". Twenty brides crawling in a wedding cake to find lotterytickets. (Somewhere in New York apparently)

You know you have been on this forum too much when you see a picture of twenty brides covered in whip cream, ankle deep in cake and you think... "Hmmm, I hope that doesn't happen to Barbie's cake."

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fleur-de-lys - Jun 8, 2005 4:55 am (#79 of 2963)

AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARG!!!!!!

Sorry, just had to get out that frustration. i just spent half an hour creating a post for here and when I went to post it, our internet bailed and I got a "page cannot be displayed" message, so I lost all I had typed. I hate it when that happens. And you all know me, I tend to type a lot. Well, I'll try to remember all I had said. Here goes.

KWeldon, I was thinking about your comment about Leia kissing Luke when she says later that she thinks she knew all along that they were related. I look at that like the scene in Back to the Future, the first movie, when Marty is in the car with his mom (as a teen) and she starts kissing him. She looks surprised and says something like its weird and feels like she's kissing her little brother or something. She had no idea who he really was, but she had a feeling like they might be related. Maybe, at the time she kissed him, Leia got that feeling too and she's known it since then. Or maybe she knew it before, but still kissed him to make her point to Han. Girls can be goofy that way sometimes.

Snuffles, hmmmmm...a 2 year old on a long plane trip...hmmmm, let me think a minute. A lot of good suggestions have already been made, ones I would have made too. Our munchkin has a leap pad that we take whenever we need him to be occupied and quiet for a while. It usually does the trick. He also loves a calculator (has his own) and those little hand-held electronic games from Happy Meals at McDonalds or Burger King. They keep him occupied for a while. It really depends on the child too. You know your little one best and will be able to discern, from our suggestions, what will work best or not. Good luck and have a nice trip. I'll be interested to see how it goes.

Thora, water in your ear? How odd. I've never heard of that to keep cool. I'll have to try it sometime.

Mare, when I was engaged, I went to a local bridal show. After the fashion show, they picked about 10 brides. They were to rip through a wedding cake for a diamond ring. I forget how much it was worth, but I was glad I wasn't picked. I would rather have ate the cake. Tee hee. Its amazing what people will do for a prize.

Well, I think that's about all I said before. I'm crossing my fingers that it will post this time.

Yours till Bear Mountain has Cubs, Lori

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Springtime - Jun 8, 2005 5:43 am (#80 of 2963)

hi everyone. Well my youngest who is not very young (14) anymore has just left for a 3 day trip to Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, with his grade 8 class. this is the first trip that he has taken without family memebers with him. Oh how fast they grow up. Hope he has a great time.

Demonic is looking forward to being only child in the house for 3 days.

anyways hope everyone has a great day. I was just feeling the empty nest bit.

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Loopy Lupin - Jun 8, 2005 5:53 am (#81 of 2963)

But, I must admit, I love the one about the wallpaper. In fact, I wish I'd said it forty years ago, when my parents papered the lounge.—timrew

Given that, by my count, you would have been smack in the middle of your teenage years, can you be sure what choice your parents would have made if faced with such a tough ultimatum?

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Madam Pince - Jun 8, 2005 6:55 am (#82 of 2963)

Snuffles, this isn't exactly "keeping him occupied," and it may sound a bit extreme, but I swear my pediatrician told me to do it! We were contemplating a long trip (ended up not taking it, but anyway) and I just casually jokingly mentioned to the doctor about what to do to keep him quiet. The doctor looked at me like I was crazy and said "Girl, haven't you ever heard of Benadryl???" He recommended giving Baby Pince 3/4 T. of liquid children's Benadryl (the antihistimine), and said it would lull him right off to sleep. As I said, we ended up not taking the trip and so didn't use it, but I have used it on occasion (teething in the middle of the night, etc.) and it does work like one of Hermione's Sleeping Draughts.

I don't much like medicating kids unless absolutely necessary, but in this case it might be a thought. Also, I have heard that little ones can sometimes have problems with the air pressure in their ears when flying, so if yours has a tendency for ear problems, you might want to check with the doc to see what he recommends about that too. I've (thankfully) never had to deal with ears so I don't know a solution for that one.

All of the above ideas sound great also for trips! We use the magna-doodle and books for long car trips, and he also packs a little bag with all his favorite toys (Buzz Lightyear always accompanies us!)

Happy Birthday, Scully Jones! Hope you have a great day!!!!!

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Snuffles - Jun 8, 2005 7:20 am (#83 of 2963)

Thank you everybody for your suggestions, I went out at lunch today and bought a little magna doodle, some books and a childs first domino set!!

Madam Pince, the medicine is very tempting, I will take some and see how she is before we board the plane! When reading your post I was reminded of the good old 80's programme 'The A Team' when they had to knock B.A. out before dragging him on the plane!!!

Take care everyone

Julie

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Thora - Jun 8, 2005 8:06 am (#84 of 2963)

Sucking helps with the ear pressure, so take the sippy cup that requires the most intense sucking, and a salty snack to make him thirsty.

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applepie - Jun 8, 2005 9:12 am (#85 of 2963)

Snuffles, you seem to have gotten some very nice suggestions. I hope some of them work for you. My children have never flown, so I am no help to you.

When my older son was about 5 years old, he took a train ride out of state and we gave him some Dramamaine (for motion sickness). His father has motion sickness, and he had shown some signs of it during car trips, so we used it as a precaution.

Benadryl will help him relax (and definitely puts my boys to sleep), but some kids react completely opposite to the norm. So, if you haven't used it before, I would advise against it. You don't want to make matters worse.

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Julia. - Jun 8, 2005 9:17 am (#86 of 2963)

My parents always told me to swallow hard and yawn to help with ear pressure, and it rarely worked, so now I just chew gum. Benadryl is very usefull, at least it worked on my sister and I. We used to take books and Barbie dolls on long plain rides, and that usually keep us occupied.

Oh man, I am in an excellent mood. I'd better go find a good way to get out all my good-mood energy.

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GryffEndora - Jun 8, 2005 9:21 am (#87 of 2963)

Thora - It's nice to know I'm in great company with my listening habits!

Yesterday, when Loopy changed his avatar I was inspired to do the same. This is a picture of me about 4 years ago in my University production of Oscar Wilde's The Importance of Being Earnest. I played Lady Bracknell, the interfering adult trying to stop the young lovers form happiness. I also got the opportunity to costume design on this play and designed both of my gowns and built one. The one pictured was the simpler one that I didn't build. On top of all that I also designed the poster for the play. Guess I was a bit of an over achiever. The entire production was staged in shades of white, cream, and pale pink with just a touch of brown, hence I'm monochromatic. Also if you can make out the red hair in the pic I'll let you know that is a wig, I'm a brunette.

I hope the plane trip with the young one goes well. It sounds like the benadryl trick might be one to test before leaving. I don't have kids but from what my friend says, baggage claim can be the worst part of the whole experience. Here's a strengthening charm for you and a cheering charm for the little one!

Take care everybody!

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KWeldon - Jun 8, 2005 10:13 am (#88 of 2963)

Snuffles, I don't know if anyone mentioned this, but when we fly with our kids I pack the goodies that I've gotten them (such as your Magna doodle and dominoes), but don't even tell them about them or give them to them until we are in the air and the novelty of the flight has worn off.

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Phoenix song - Jun 8, 2005 10:17 am (#89 of 2963)

Hello everybody! You have all made me laugh so much this morning! I can just imagine all of those greedy brides ravaging over and through a large wedding cake to pull out prizes! I hope that people don't try to tramp all over my cake! (The bride would surely find out about the false layer then!)

Thora, thanks for your suggestion to get rid of the burnt smell, I'll certainly try it. The Lord knows that there's plenty of vanilla extract around here with all of the icing that I'm about to start making today! And it wouldn't do to have smoke-flavored icing!

Happy Birthday Scully! I hope that it's a good one!

GryffEndora, I like your pic from the play. It must have been really fun. It sounds like a lot of work, though! (Is your middle name Hermione?)

Where's Catherine? Surely she's returned from her trip! We miss you!

I'm afraid that I've never flown and can't be too much help with that department. But I will second the caution about the Benadryl if your child has never tried it before.

It's a good solution, an excellent aid, for those kids that it works on. As my pediatrician, and others, have suggested for years now, it helps to calm them down and allow them to sleep. Whenever my son was very restless due to allergy problems or teething, we'd give him a little bit and it would help him to get the sleep that he needed.

When my middle child was around 3, we had an occasion when the entire family had been sick for days. She wasn't resting at all, and everybody needed some sleep. I gave her a little bit to help her (and us) sleep. Imagine my surprise when it had the OPPOSITE effect on her. It made her so super-hyper that she seemed to be possessed.

There was also an occasion when she had a severe reaction to ant bites and needed to be taken to the ER. The doctor was running tests, of course, but prescribed Benadryl in the meantime. He added cleverly with a wink that it would allow her to rest while they checked things out. I warned him that it wouldn't do any such thing, but he didn't listen. I guess that HE learned his lesson when she was bouncing off of the nurses' station 20 minutes later! You just never know how each child will react!

Have a good day everybody! Barbie

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Madam Poppy - Jun 8, 2005 10:18 am (#90 of 2963) Reply
Edited by Jun 8, 2005 10:20 am

Greetings from Madam Poppy! It's hard to believe how the months have flown by. My days have been filled with my writer mother going nearly blind Christmas Day, my daughter having a difficult pregnancy (I made 2 trips to Reno to help) and my suffering from a work injury.

I am keeping current on my Harry Potter by wearing out several cassette players and my books on tape. I am now investing in the CD's since my husband gave me a nice MP3 player.

My daughter is due to have a girl the end of this month and I was surprised to learn that Lily is the only name so far that they can both agree on. I said that I have to like it since it is a Potter name.

I was lifting freight on March 3rd and tore both my rotator cuffs. This has meant lots of tests, physical therapy that didn't work, shots and worse of all "light duty" which means standing at the door of our store and greeting people for my 8 hour shift. People, please be kind to any door greeter!  It is a tough job and NOT a "vacation". I was moved out to the gardenshop entrance last week which has been an improvement. I can't lift anything but I can at least help out by answering plant questions instead of saying “Hello” and “Thanks for coming in” all day. (I am also suppose to be watching to make sure unpaid merchandise doesn't head out the garden entrance.)

I read through the last 80 or so recent messages on this thread and it’s nice to see that Marè, Tim, Boop, Gina, Marie E. are still here. Hello to you all. I promise to pop in more often.

Madam Poppy

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Finn BV - Jun 8, 2005 10:22 am (#91 of 2963)

Happy Birthday, Scully!

Wow, it's a hot day here today, 92 degrees! Same as yesterday. I couldn't sleep at all last night – it was just too hot!

Madam Poppy, glad to see you're back. I hope your tests go okm! And is there a grandmother talk I hear? Let's hope for Lily!

I'd talk more but I have to rush of to tennis… adios!

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applepie - Jun 8, 2005 11:44 am (#92 of 2963)

Madam Poppy, I am so sorry to hear about your injury. Do you work at Wal Mart? When I think of a door greeter, that is the first to pop into mind. I hope you are soon back to normal and able to do your regular work.

Barbie, My kids knock out with Benadryl, but I made the suggestion because a friend's child suffered the opposite effect. I never forgot about that.

Thora, that suggesion about the vanilla extract sounds like a nice "fix-all". I might have to try it sometime.

We are soooooooooooooooo wet, I feel as though we will soon float away. I am thinking of purchasing a boat to travel to and from work. It has been raining since the weekend, and very heavy rain. It was hailing just a few moments ago. Enough to upset everyone who's cars were in the open parking lot outside. Especially those who have brand new vehicles.

I saw on the Leaky Cauldron that the Harry Potter version of the Scene-It game comes out in August. I immediately e-mailed my husband to tell him that I MUST have it. He asked who would play it with me since they had not read the books? I threw out a "not my problem" kind of reply and he thought he had made his point. Until, of course, I told my children about it. Being that they love the Disney version, they were extremely excited about it and wanted it immediately. I just flashed an "I told you so" look at him, and a huge grin, and he laughed. It's nice that he knows when he cannot win.

Happy Wednesday to all!

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Stephanie M. - Jun 8, 2005 1:09 pm (#93 of 2963)

Hey everyone! I haven't looked through this thread in like 3 days, and there were so many posts! I skimmed through the ones since Sunday night, so I have missed some things.

I have no idea what it's called, but there are these red (swallow able) pills that are meant to get rid of any pressure you may feel when flying. I know they work for my grandmother and my cousin, but I have never tried them myself. I also don't know any of the side effects. I just remember that my grandmother takes them whenever she goes on a plain. O and the pills are swallow able as I've said so it might not be the best idea for a child to be taking them.

Benadryl works for everyone in my family, but sometimes it take a while to fully kick in. (once it took 2 hours for me to stop sneezing! O that wasn't fun!)

Okay back to reading everything I missed!

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Stephanie M. - Jun 8, 2005 1:24 pm (#94 of 2963)

Okay I have a random question. I got a scrape on my knee last Friday, it wasn't a cut, just a little scrape. But it hasn't gone away or gotten any bit better. I've tried everything! It looks really bad, but it's really little and it isn't infected or anything. Can anyone offer me any help on how to get rid of it faster? I'm going to the Bahamas on Friday and I kind of want it gone by then. It looks like it'll never get better!

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Elanor - Jun 8, 2005 1:47 pm (#95 of 2963)

Hello everybody! I hope you're all spending a good Wednesday!

I worked so much today, both for school and on the paper (that is (nearly) finished, yeah!!!!), that I'm not sure I will be very coherent tonight, assuming I am from time to time...

Amilia, it is great to know you love cycling too!
It must be wonderful to be able to watch the races live.

It is indeed! The first important stage I saw was during the 1990 Tour de France. I had often see some other races and even some flat stretch Tour stages in my region but, though the atmosphere is great, the publicity caravan funny and the cyclists amazing, everything happens very fast when they arrive. In 1990, my godfather wanted to give me a present after I graduated and asked what I would want and I answered to see a stage in the alps". He agreed at once since he loves cycling too so he took me for seeing an individual time-trial in the Alps and it was amazing! I saw another one in Burgundy 2 years ago (the Macon stage) and also a team time-trial once, which is really beautiful to see.

I hope you will be able to come and see some stages sometime! I've never been in the Pyrennées but I would love to be in the Tourmalet sometime! BTW, there was the Dauphiné's individual time-trial today, only about 20 km far from here, but I couldn't go and see it. But if you're interested in, I can tell you that Botero won it, Leipheimer is second (and new leader of the race) and Armstrong 3rd, before Landis, Hincapie and Vinokourov. the Tour promises to be interesting!

About the contest, don't worry not to have won, it is a great way to see the country, that is certain, but also a very difficult one, wherever you go, it always climbs!

Have a great day everybody, and I wish a good night to my fellow Europeans forumers!

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Phoenix song - Jun 8, 2005 2:02 pm (#96 of 2963)

applepie: What city do you live in? We received tons of rain recently, too, but thankfully most of it has drained by now. But I hear that down in the Crescent City that they're still suffering with some flooding problems. I live on the Northshore. I'm assuming that you may live on the West Bank, but wanted to know for sure. It's a shame that we both have little kids that make travel, even short distances, difficult. It would be nice if we could get together to do our read on July 16th and then play the Scene-It game. (That'd hush your husband up, wouldn't it? )

Stephanie M, I have two suggestions for helping to heal your cut. I'm sure that there will be many more to come, but I've always believed in Triple Antibiotic Ointment. It's just this ordinary cream in a tube that you can get just about anywhere. It helps to keep down germs and help it to heal faster. I've also heard that Aloe Vera gel works wonders. I hope that helps!

Barbie

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applepie - Jun 8, 2005 2:10 pm (#97 of 2963)

Barbie, I do live on the Westbank, but I work about two minutes from the Crescent City Connection, and we have gotten soaked recently. I have a friend who works downtown who told me that huge workhorses on construction sites were floating down the streets of the Crescent City on Monday.

My father moved to Folsom about 5 years ago, so I make it to the Northshore occasionally.

My oldest son was supposed to have baseball practice, and my husband was due to umpire a game later tonight, but it looks as though it will all be rained out. Oddly enough, the electricity at work has never faltered, making our workday increasingly long!

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boop - Jun 8, 2005 2:12 pm (#98 of 2963)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SARAH, lots of hugs coming your way.. Have a great day.

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applepie - Jun 8, 2005 2:19 pm (#99 of 2963)

Sorry, I must have missed that birthday....

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SARAH!!

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Penny Lane. - Jun 8, 2005 2:33 pm (#100 of 2963)

Happy Birthday Sarah!

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Stephanie M. - Jun 8, 2005 2:54 pm (#101 of 2963)

Thanks Barbie!!! I can't believe I didn't think of that! *smacks hand into head* I had this horrible sunburn once so I went to a doctor and he said to put Aloe Vera gel on it. It went away pretty quickly and I wasn't dyeing in pain. I put some of the Aloe Vera gel on and I think it'll work because it's starting to tingle. I'll keep you posted on how well the Aloe Vera is working. If anyone has any other ideas of how to help my scrape please post it! I can't cover it up because it's right below where any Capris end, and it will be around 90ºF and 100% humidity. I'm not wearing jeans in that heat! LOL I can just picture myself on the beach with everyone in bikinis and I'm sitting in jeans. Well thank you again! I really appreciate this you guys!

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Lina - Jun 8, 2005 3:19 pm (#102 of 2963)

Happy birthday Scully!

I haven't got much to add except that I agree with Barbie that those medicines against allergy don't work with all the children the same way.

And some sunny and drying charms to Applepie!

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timrew - Jun 8, 2005 3:23 pm (#103 of 2963)

But, I must admit, I love the one about the wallpaper. In fact, I wish I'd said it forty years ago, when my parents papered the lounge.-- timrew

Loopy: Given that, by my count, you would have been smack in the middle of your teenage years, can you be sure what choice your parents would have made if faced with such a tough ultimatum?

I think they would have packed my suitcase, Loopy!

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applepie - Jun 8, 2005 4:13 pm (#104 of 2963)

Thanks, Lina. Though, I don't think your charms have made it to me from Croatia yet, because it is pouring out. We have had to cancel baseball for the evening and are presently just watching the sky fall. Our plants are happy, though.

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Phoenix song - Jun 8, 2005 4:30 pm (#105 of 2963)

applepie: I'll send some sunny and drying charms your way as well. When Lina and I work together we can manage to accomplish some pretty amazing stuff! **I've been practicing the "Stayus Togetherus" charm regularly in preparation for our joint efforts on this cake!**

I'm in Pearl River, just a stone's throw from the Mississippi/Louisiana border. I use to live in Westwego, and we experienced more than our share of flooding before moving. It's quite disturbing to wake up to find several feet of water in your home! I'm sure that's not going to be the case right now, but it's always possible around here.

Stephanie, I'm glad that the Aloe Vera seems to be working. My mother said that it was a good cure for most all skin conditions, and I've heard that Aloe Vera juice is really good to drink if you have an upset stomach. (I've never drank it, though, to know for sure.) The plant is a tried and true Native American stand by that never ceases to amaze me.

Good night everybody!
Barbie

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applepie - Jun 8, 2005 4:32 pm (#106 of 2963)

Barbie, how long ago did you live in Westwego? I practically grew up there as a child.

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T Brightwater - Jun 8, 2005 5:13 pm (#107 of 2963)

Phoenix song, when's the wedding, so I can join in on the "Stayus Togetherus" charm? (Actually, if you use "Cohere" it's the same in English and Latin, only pronounced differently. :-) )

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Ms Amanda - Jun 8, 2005 6:06 pm (#108 of 2963)

Hi all!

I don't usually post on the chat thread, but I'd just like to jump in and ask for some Cheering Charms (and some prayers and well-wishes to a sick kid).

I work in a two-year-old room at a daycare, and I just heard that a little girl in the room ahead of us (she's in the threes room) has cancer and her eye was removed today.

The teachers are all trying to think of cheerful ways for the children to feel like they are "doing something" to help. My little class is making cards to mail to her tomorrow. Aren't they sweet? This is one of their former classmates, but they are much too young to understand, really.

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GryffEndora - Jun 8, 2005 7:12 pm (#109 of 2963)

Ms. Amanda, my thoughts and prayers go out to this child and her family. I will also send some healing and cheering charms their way. Please keep us posted on her progress as you learn more. Thank you for sharing this with us and for helping your students send happiness to this girl and her family.

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Finn BV - Jun 8, 2005 7:12 pm (#110 of 2963)

Ms Amanda, that is just awful to hear about the girl. I send her all my best wishes. Close family and friends of mine have gone through the same trauma, most of them making it out okay. Again, I express my heartfelt prayers.

Thanks, Lina. Though, I don't think your charms have made it to me from Croatia yet, because it is pouring out. –applepie
This was very funny, the way you worded it with extreme gratitude, but then how it's not working. I'm sending more drying charms your way.

Steph, sure wouldn't want you on a beach in jeans in 90 degree weather! LOL. ¡Olé! We're alumni now! Go Science 7!

I think they would have packed my suitcase, Loopy! –timrew
Very funny. We just have exceptionally funny members, don't we?

Well, tomorrow's my last day for two weeks. Then it's off out west. I just found the "Mark as Read" function in the teal bar and trust me, that's going to come in very handy after this vacation.

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Denise P. - Jun 8, 2005 7:24 pm (#111 of 2963)

Ms Amanda, you may want to talk to the child life specialist at where the little girl is being treated. Maybe a doll with one eye (eye patch if she wears one) would be in order from the class? Stickers are good too. I know when my son was in being treated for leukemia, the child life people were very helpful in providing age appropriate ideas for the kids being treated. I think cards/drawings are nice because it lets the child know their friends are thinking of them. We wall papered Devin's room with the cards and drawings he recieved from his class, his sunday school class and his cub scouts.

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fleur-de-lys - Jun 8, 2005 7:25 pm (#112 of 2963)

Ms Amanda, what a shock to read something so drastic happening to a child. I just can't imagine going through that as a child and especially can't imagine watching your child go through all the pain and fear and not being able to do anything about it. I will definitely be praying for the girl, her family and your daycare as well. Its incredible how something like this can affect an entire community. If you ever need someone to talk to or unload on or vent to, feel free to email me. Its a good thing the daycare is doing to let the other kids do something. They can't really understand it, but they know when something is wrong. I used to work at a daycare too. I like what you're doing there.

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Finn BV - Jun 8, 2005 7:27 pm (#113 of 2963)

Denise, I sure hope Devin didn't say to you, "Either that wallpaper goes, or I do."

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applepie - Jun 8, 2005 7:54 pm (#114 of 2963)

Ms. Amanda, so sorry to hear about that little girl. I will definitely keep her in my thoughts and prayers. She deserves a break. That is a horrible thing for such a young child to have to endure.

Thanks so much for the drying charms everyone. I sincerely hope the begin to work at some point in time, or I'm afraid I'll have to take 10 points away from each of your houses for your inability to properly produce a drying charm....

Off to post...

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scully jones - Jun 8, 2005 7:55 pm (#115 of 2963)

I've had a wonderful birthday so far. At dinner this evening Brandon proposed. I knew it was coming sometime soon (I picked out the ring) but it was very nice to go out for a nice dinner and have him ask. Brandon unfortunately thought he had me fooled into thinking he was going to do it in July so he's sad that it wasn't a complete suprise.

So I can finally wear the beautiful ring. It'll take some time before I can get used to saying "fiance" instead of "boyfriend".

So Here's the ring! Isn't it perfect? I like the mix of satin finish and normal finish. It's also not sticking out, so I don't catch the diamond on everything which is wonderful because I plan on wearing it for a very very long time.



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applepie - Jun 8, 2005 7:58 pm (#116 of 2963)

Scully, Congratulations to you and Brandon. I wish you a long and prosperous life together. Maybe Barbie could make your cake?

*ducking from dungbombs*

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Springtime - Jun 8, 2005 8:04 pm (#117 of 2963)

congratulations! Best wishes! Scully butterbeer for all

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Stephanie M. - Jun 8, 2005 8:34 pm (#118 of 2963)

Wow Scully, That ring looks beautiful!!! I'm so happy for you!!!

Steph, sure wouldn't want you on a beach in jeans in 90 degree weather!-Fbv

LOL I'm going to suffer from heat stroke out of the U.S.!!! No I probably won't. It doesn't matter too much either, but I prefer if it was gone. It was from Val's pool. lol. How's the sunburn? Robert got a really bad sunburn, and he's Italian! I didn't get burned, but I had SPF 50 on and I put it on twice! LOL. I just think ahead. On another note: YAY SCIENCE 7 ALUMNI!!! WOOHOO. Did you like how I began the post about my scrape? "This is a RANDOM question..." I think that's how I started it. lol. I still haven't gotten how to put the actual smilie in!

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Eponine - Jun 8, 2005 8:36 pm (#119 of 2963)

Congratulations, Sarah! And happy birthday too!

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Julia. - Jun 8, 2005 8:39 pm (#120 of 2963)

If you'll bear with me, I'm going to tell you a story.

L'chyiam, l'chyiam, everybody, l'chyiam. I have two friends out in California, their names are Brandon and Sarah. Brandon and Sarah, and myself, and a number of others, actually, everyone reading this, met on this very Forum. We had a party in the chat room every night and we all became very good friends. Last February we decided that we should meet face to face in the real world. So it was settled that we would meet in the beginning of June in State College Pennsylvania, which is way the heck in the middle of nowhere, but that’s where our dear Betty lives. And so at this gathering everyone met. We spent the most wonderful weekend together, just enjoying each other’s company. When that time ended we were all as sad as a child whose best friend moved away, thinking ahead to when we would see each other again. It’s been over a year now, and for me, July 29 cannot come soon enough.

Anyway at this gathering Brandon and Sarah really hit it off. They were instantly comfortable and joking with each other. It was clear that as good friends as they were, they were going to become much closer and much better friends. Exactly how close no one knew; Sarah had a boyfriend who she was living with at the time, but unbeknownst to us that relationship was heading down hill. Shortly after the gathering Sarah broke up with her boyfriend and began dating Brandon. This was harder than it looks: she was living in Michigan while he was in California. They spoke and IMed daily, but never saw each other. But despite that the relationship grew, and Brandon and Sarah fell in love.

I was in the rather interesting position of being sort of a fly on the wall. I never knew what they said in private to each other, but every night one or both of them would IM me. Every night that summer I got to hear how much they loved each other, how much they missed each other, how they were the light of each other’s lives, how they were each other’s motivation to succeed, how the other was the only thing worth living for and how they couldn’t live without each other. I never heard so much complaining in all my life, but my days were never complete without it. All what whining was the sweetest thing I’d ever heard. It reaffirmed my faith in humanity, and more importantly it reaffirmed my faith in love. At the summer’s end Sarah finally moved to California where she and Brandon are living happily.

A few months ago Brandon told me that he was planning to propose to Sarah. The original plan was for him to ask her in July, at the gathering. But Sarah, being the very smart women that she is, figured it out quickly. Yesterday evening Brandon told me that he had changed the plan, that he would ask her today, on her birthday. Naturally I was over the moon, and I’ve been grinning ear to ear ever since. Obviously, the plan succeeded. He asked, she said yes, and now our dear forum couple is engaged.

*passes out butterbeer* *raises bottle* L’chyiam l’chyiam everyone. Brandon and Sarah, I love you both very much and I can’t wait to dance at your wedding. May your lives be filled with nothing but joy and blessings, and may you live many happy and prosperous years together. L’chyiam. *drinks*

And now for your viewing pleasure, some pictures of our first forum couple.
Watch out for the killer root beer!
At Sarah's brother's wedding
Tickle tickle!
Playing with his goatee
AWWWWWWWW!
Head gear switch
Whip and Gun
Smooch
Happy Christmas!

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scully jones - Jun 8, 2005 8:42 pm (#121 of 2963)

Thank you very much Julia! I've had a wonderful birthday this year, don't you think? Later, I'll even post the poem that my mom made for me this year... Thank you all!

Sarah

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phaseolus vulgaris - Jun 8, 2005 8:44 pm (#122 of 2963) Reply
Edited by Jun 8, 2005 8:45 pm

(Brandon, Brandon, Brandon, I tried to warn you, now it's too late, you're stuck, and life as you know it is ov... )

uh, I mean, YAY!!!! Wishing you two a rewarding and happy life together...

Chris

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T Brightwater - Jun 8, 2005 8:45 pm (#123 of 2963)

Sarah/Scully, happy birthday, and best wishes to you and Brandon! Mazel tov! (Now you won't have to be distracted by a proposal while you're reading HBP :-))

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Mrs. Sirius - Jun 8, 2005 8:53 pm (#124 of 2963)
Edited Jun 8, 2005 10:14 pm

Sarah! Brandon! congratulations! (let me see if I can do it);*;!!*;;! oh, where is Abby when you need her? congratulations to the two of you.

Stephanie M-Aloe vera is excellent at helping wounds and scares heal. You may want to start with an antibacterial like Neosporine first though. Cocoa butter is also said pretty good at reducing scares.

In a couple of weeks school will (FINALLY!) be over. My son's class had pen pals in Australia, but they don't continue that through the summer. Is there anyone out there in our extended Lexicon family, with a 9 year old son who might want to have a pen pal? He, of course, loves Harry Potter, plays baseball and soccer (football). He's really easy going. The kids wrote short letters once or twice a month. It was a pretty simple exchange. (Mods if this request is in appropriate please just remove)

EDIT: WOW!!!! Chris! haven't seen you in ages!

You really need to be fast around here. I started this message right after Sarah's and look how many post!

Julia that is a nice summation. Thanks for the pictures too.

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lemonbalm&bees - Jun 8, 2005 9:46 pm (#125 of 2963)

Whoa! I step away from the forum for a few hours and what happens? People start getting engaged. Double congratulations to you Scully and Brandon. If only half of what these forum-ers say is true, I am sure you will be very happy together!

I was out picking up a copy of Pet Sounds today and realized I hadn't pre-ordered HBP yet. Phew! close shave! July 16th is so near. Glad I've gotten that taken care of!

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The giant squid - Jun 9, 2005 12:23 am (#126 of 2963)

Some Abby-fetti is definitely in order! Congratulations and Best Wishes to Sarah & Brandon. Am I correct in assuming that you two are the first couple to meet, date & marry through the forum? Thanks, Julia, for the pics--you can definitely tell they love each other.

I'm sure there are other things I was going to comment on, but this news blew all that out of my mind (a state I find myself in regularly ) so I'll leave it with that.

--Mike

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Lina - Jun 9, 2005 2:38 am (#127 of 2963)

Ms Amanda, I am sorry to read that you have to deal with such a sad situation. I don't see that any words could help. I'm putting all of you in my prayers and sending some strengthening charms.

Applepie: Thanks, Lina. Though, I don't think your charms have made it to me from Croatia yet, because it is pouring out.


I'm sorry. I was really tired last night. I'll try to make it work better today. I live on a hilly terrain by the sea, so I never had really to deal with floods. We do get some streets turn into rivers sometimes, but never had to get water out of the rooms. I just hope you won't have to either.

Congratulations, Scully! It is a beautiful ring!

Julia, thank you for the beautiful story!

Cornelia, are the kids O.K.?

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Ozymandias - Jun 9, 2005 4:34 am (#128 of 2963)

Congratulations to you both! I am seriously grinning from ear to ear right now. I can't wait to see you guys in July!

Everyone else, I hope your lives are equally happy right now and always!

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Marè - Jun 9, 2005 4:42 am (#129 of 2963)

Waves to Madam Poppy! Good to see you, sending healing charms your way! But it is nice to have you back.

And congrats to Sarah and Brandon.

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Ladybug220 - Jun 9, 2005 5:16 am (#130 of 2963)

Hello to Madam Poppy - it is good to see you here!

And a big CONGRATS to Sarah and Brandon! We expect a website so all of us forum folk can see the wedding picts.

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librarian314 - Jun 9, 2005 6:05 am (#131 of 2963)

Hey all!

Sarah and Brandon! Congratulations!!!!! The ring is very beautiful. May you have many happy years together!

**michelle the librarian**

P.S. You should invite JKR to the wedding and tell you how y'all met. I don't think she'd ever have thought that her writing these books about a young wizard lad would lead to weddings but I think she'd be touched.

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Loopy Lupin - Jun 9, 2005 6:06 am (#132 of 2963)

Congratulations Brandon and Sarah!

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fleur-de-lys - Jun 9, 2005 6:12 am (#133 of 2963)

Scully, congrats to you and Brandon. How exciting to hear that you met on the forum. I think that's relly neat. i met my hubby, of 6 and 1/2 year now, on the internet. We knew each other in high school, but hadn't been in contact in over 6 years when we caught up on the internet, so it can be done.

Lina, I just checked out your profile to see what you avatar and saw the pic you have on there of your town. HOW BEAUTIFUL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I wish I was able to vacation there. That truly is an incredible pic. It needs to be framed and hung on the wall.

Yours till Niagara Falls, Lori (sorry haven't had time to think up anything new and inventive yet. If anyone has any ideas, email me)

Well, mom is still having problems. She's been trying to manage her meds and has developed some SEVERE back pain. We went to the dr's last nite to make sure it isn't her kidney's. They're pretty sure its not, but she can hardly get around or straighten up. So, she's trying some different things. I hope she gets some relief soon. I'm getting frustrated, so I can only imagine how she feels.

It looks like another scorcher here. I know its bad when the hubby leaves for work at 7:30 and he says "UGH"! Hot and humid, my two least favorite things in the world. Oh well, hope everyone else is having a better day than I am. Congrats again, Scully. I am very excited for you. Did I miss a date? Or is there not one yet?

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T Brightwater - Jun 9, 2005 6:19 am (#134 of 2963)

fleur-de-lys, has your mom tried massage? It's a great help for pain and the accompanying depression.

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Finn BV - Jun 9, 2005 7:15 am (#135 of 2963)

Sarah and Brandon, that is just wonderful news! Julia's story was very enlightening to those of us who just got in on it, so thanks to everybody!

*cries because it's the last day on the forum for two weeks*

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applepie - Jun 9, 2005 7:20 am (#136 of 2963)

Finn, don't cry. You'll make me sad too... Have a wonderful time while you are gone. Don't worry, we'll be here when you get back. You have the lucky advantage of something else being able to take your mind off of the fact that we still have to wait 36 days for HBP. So, when you return, that number will have dropped significantly, giving us all something to look forward to....your return!

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Cornelia - Jun 9, 2005 7:23 am (#137 of 2963)

Ms Amanda, we keep the little one in our thoughts!

Sarah and Brandon, CONGRATULATIONS! We wish you many, many happy days! The ring is beautiful!

Julia, thanks for the background information, sounds almost like a fairy story.

Lori, hope your mum is getting better soon! We send some Healing Charms.

The kids are feeling better again. Thank you for your wishes and thoughts!! The doctor said it´s probably Mononucleosis Infectiosa, couldn´t find it in my dictionary. At least it ends with lasting immunity.

Have a nice day everybody!

Edit: PS Finn, have a nice holiday, you will be missed!

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applepie - Jun 9, 2005 7:36 am (#138 of 2963)

CALLING ALL ENGLISH MAJORS

I need a little help. Over on the YOU KNOW YOU ARE A HARRY POTTER/LEXICON FAN WHEN... thread, we've started a "Wives of Husbands who Don't Understand Harry Potter" club. I need to find out if my acronym "WHDUHP" is correct, or if "who" should be part of it????

Yes, my I do have my fair share of grammatical issues and limitations...

Edit: I also want to let all of you know that we are accepting new members at this time.

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librarian314 - Jun 9, 2005 7:48 am (#139 of 2963)

Hey all!

Applepie - from dictionary.com:

acronym: A word formed from the initial letters of a name, such as WAC for Women's Army Corps, or by combining initial letters or parts of a series of words, such as radar for radio detecting and ranging.

Over at a website called Acronym finder (I googled on acronym and it was the first hit.) most of the acronyms I could think of used all of the first letters in the word, including the conjunctions and prepositions but a couple (both of the NORADs listed) did not. I think that if you want to leave that W out, it'll be fine! :-)

**michelle the librarian** who has a B.A. in English

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applepie - Jun 9, 2005 7:52 am (#140 of 2963)

Thanks, Michelle. I appreciate it!

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Steve Newton - Jun 9, 2005 7:53 am (#141 of 2963)

I think that it is also necessary for the initial letters to be in pronounceable. NASA is and so is an acronym. A Federal Reserve Bank, an FRB, cannot be pronounced using standard pronunciation. It is not an acronym, it is an initialism.

In the library world, in the US, the Library of Congress is invariable called LC and pronounced Elsie. I guess that makes it an acronym.

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applepie - Jun 9, 2005 7:59 am (#142 of 2963)

Steve, thanks. I immediately thought of this after writing the acronym/initialism and read it to be "what up" which sent me into a fit of giggles. I guess I was more concerned with it being an abnoxiously long title, for the sake of being comical. But, I also wanted to make sure I was being grammatically correct by not adding the "W" for the word "who". I appreciate the help.

Fleur/Snuffles: Should we have a motto?????

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KWeldon - Jun 9, 2005 8:16 am (#143 of 2963)

I'd like to join that club of wives, too! I haven't figured out how I'm going to explain to my husband that I'm going to Barnes and Noble at midnight to get my HP book without him realizing the depths of my interest in HP. My kids aren't into it, although I could easily coerce my 6 yr old son that it would be cool for him to go.

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Loopy Lupin - Jun 9, 2005 8:44 am (#144 of 2963)

I need to find out if my acronym "WHDUHP" is correct, or if "who" should be part of it???? – applepie

I am unware of any rules applicable to acronyms. I believe that you can abbreviate a name as you see fit so long as it serves your purpose.

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Kip Carter - Jun 9, 2005 9:01 am (#145 of 2963)

Scully (Sarah) and Brandon, CONGRATULATION! The ring is beautiful! I have been very aware of this relationship from inception and I wish you both the best.

I have been happily married for thirty-six years and look forward to at least thirty-six more. My wife is my best friend and my most trusted confidant. I hope that your relationships develops the strength that mine has endured.

Julia, thanks for the recap of the Scully-Brandon story and the pictures. You did a great job.

For those trying to work out an acronym: You could expand the group to spouses versus just women. The "s" may be easier to work with that "w".

To those who I have not recognized for your special days or awards: My hat is off to each of you. I try not to post very often on this thread because my posts, for some reason, stop the discussions many times or cause other problems.

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Penny Lane. - Jun 9, 2005 9:11 am (#146 of 2963)

OMG I saw Kip's Red Font and nearly had a heart attack because I thought we were all in trouble! :goofygrin:

J/K. Congrats to Bran and Sarah, and to anyone else that needs it.

And may I just say thank you to whomever bought me this lovely gift of premium membership! I love having an avatar again, and I'm SOOO glad I will be able to post my heart (fingers?) out after the cooling off period when HPB comes out in THIRTY FIVE DAYS!

I'm a little excited today. My parents (and I) will be moving out of this horrible little house that we've been in for the last year, and into a brand new townhouse! It's still smaller than the house I grew up in, and I'm still a little sad that I won't be able to bring my kids to the house I grew up in, but it's much better than here. Once I finally get my own place in Saptember, They will have an office again, which they have desprately needed this past year. My mom (and I a bit) are a little disappoint that they have an electric stove, but the positives FAR outweigh the negatives.

Hope everyone has a great day!

ETA: Yes, Kip deserves an Oscar. And I have one for him Image hosted by Photobucket.com.

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Lina - Jun 9, 2005 9:12 am (#147 of 2963)

fleur-de-lys: It needs to be framed and hung on the wall.

Don't worry, it is. I must say that my town is not as beautiful as the view from our apartment.
I hope your mum gets better soon!

Cornelia, healing charms your way (wait til I find Estonia on the map!)

Kip, indeed, whenever I see your brown letters, I expect some official announcement! But I will take the opportunity to tell you how great host you are! Thinking of everything! A hosting Oscar for you!

Edit: Congratulations, Penny Lane!

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applepie - Jun 9, 2005 9:24 am (#148 of 2963)

Thanks, Kip. I guess we shouldn't be so selfish to assume that some of our male members might have spouses who don't understand their fascination with Jo's magical world. I will open the enrollment to all genders. Please inform me of your desire to join, so I can hand out badges and collect your dues. I'll expect you all to practice your knitting so we can assemble hats!

Edit: Shall we be named: Fans with Spouses who Don't Understand Harry Potter

Motto anyone?

Please vote. I will tally the votes and make badges.

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lemonbalm&bees - Jun 9, 2005 9:43 am (#149 of 2963)

I wrote on another thread about this, but wanted to make extra-sure that I didn't get left out of the fun. Maybe the club could have a junior organization. I am very happy with my boyfriend of almost three years. Although it's certain that I love him more, it cannot be denied that I have loved HP longer. He is considerate by trying to indroduce me to other people who are as enthusiastic as I am, but I can still see his eyes roll back in his head whenever I mention the finer points of the Wizarding World. So, can I join, although I am not a Mrs.?

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applepie - Jun 9, 2005 9:47 am (#150 of 2963)

Lemonbalm&bees, it is already done. We still have to decide on our final name though.

The suggested name is: Fans with Spouses who Don't Understand Harry Potter

And, do we need a motto?

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Grindylow - Jun 9, 2005 9:56 am (#151 of 2963)

I WANT TO JOIN!!!!!!!! Sorry, I am a little excited to be able to talk to other people who are as NUTS about HP as I am! What do I need to do to join?????

Applepie?

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fleur-de-lys - Jun 9, 2005 10:02 am (#152 of 2963)

TBrightwater, I'll have to recommend massage. We were over this morning and she did start getting some relief from some meds, I think. Our hairdresser has one of those hydro-massage machines, an open one where you lay on your back, so I may reccommend that. It may just help her relax a bit and that might do some good.

fbv807, we will miss you, boo hoo! I don't know what I'd do if I had to be away from the forum for two whole weeks. I know I'd go through some serious withdrawal. You'll have to look up an internet cafe wherever you're going. That's what my hubby does when we go away. But we will miss you! Applepie is right, we'll be here when you get back, along with about 787 new posts for you to read. How encouraging!

Applepie, 36 days?!?!? That's it?!?!!?!?!? Holy moly, I didn't know it was that close. I know it will seem like a looooong time as I'm waiting, but it seems so close. Plus there's been a lot going on and there still will be (birthdays and parties and such) that it'll go fast...I hope. **crossing all ten fingers and toes, as well as my eyes**

YEAH, another club I can join. Though I feel a tad guilty and should clarify. The hubby has seen the movies. He had no interest in HP whatsoever until PoA came out in theaters. He said maybe he'd go see it with me and I held him to it. I made him watch the first too before we went to see PoA. He will watch all the rest with me too. Usually I go for a first viewing with mom, but for GoF, I'm making him go. I know the ending (which I consider to be the most intense yet) and want to see how hollywood portrays things so I can warn mom ahead of time, since she hasn't read the books. But he really doesn't understand the necessity of the forum. So I'm glad to have a support group. Thanks Applepie for officially forming the club. I like your acronym and can pronounce it, so I say we keep it! A motto...hmmmmm...I'll have to think on that one. I'll let you know if anything hits.

Thanks, Kip. I guess we shouldn't be so selfish to assume that some of our male members might have spouses who don't understand their fascination with Jo's magical world. I will open the enrollment to all genders. –Applepie

Come on, Applepie, we all know that wives are more understanding than husbands. Tee hee, J/K. Had to say it. **ducking dungbombs and ink pellets**

Should we consider, for a name, Fans with Significant Others who Don't Understand Harry Potter? That should include everyone, even those with parents or friends that don't understand. Still no thoughts on a motto yet, but I'll keep smoking at it.

On another note, we went over to mom's this morning and by the time we left, she was getting some pain relief. Just having us visit made her feel better too. So, she's getting there. She's just extremely frustrated because it doesn't seem to be ending. We thought that, coming home from the hospital, things would slowly start to impove and get better. But, while the heart problem is getting better, too many other things are getting worse. I appreciate everyones' thoughts, prayers, supports and healing charms. We'll get there eventually. Its just such a long road.

Yours till Niagara Falls, Lori

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Julia. - Jun 9, 2005 10:21 am (#153 of 2963)

WEEEEE! Well, I've slept on it now, and I'm still very very excited to hear about Brandon and Sarah, and I'm still grinning ear to ear. <--That's me. Glad you all liked my little story and the pictures.

Fleur, who ever it was who suggested massage for your mum, I agree with them. As someone who should have listened to her fifth grade teacher when she told me to sit up straight, massage can work wonders for back pain. Either see a massage therapist or a chiropracter or both. You might also want to get one of those things that you plug in and put on the back of the chair, and it vibrates and massages you. I have one of those, it saved my life during exams.

Oh, I'd like to join the Fans Wigh Significant Others who Don't Understand Harry Potter club, but I'm not married, nor do I have a boyfriend! Do significant others include parents who just don't get it? Oh, I suggest for our motto 'They need to sort out their priorities.'

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Good Evans - Jun 9, 2005 10:22 am (#154 of 2963)

three days away from the forum and it all goes crazy.....

I am pretty low at the moment but your posts have really cheered me up.

happy birthday Snuffles, Lemonbalm&bees and Sarah (and Sarah (and Brandon) - many congratulations on your engagement, the ring is beautiful and you make a great couple) thanks to Julia for the piccies!! May you be blessed with a beautiful wedding and many wondeful years of marriage.

Applepie - yes please - hubby doesn't quite get harry - he enjoys a read but then thats it it goes away and he has no idea why I spend my time on this forum.

As for a motto : Happy to love Harry whilst to the bemusement of our hubbies ?????

The funeral yesterday was beautiful, but I am left more "down" than beforehand - you have all been so kind with your words of comfort and I am trying to be positive, I guess it will just take a little time. I have decided to write some poetry about my Nanny (as we called her), in the hope that this will help me smile rather than cry.

Thanks once again for the support, you are truly a caring and sweet group. You have made this past week or so that bit easier.

Julie X

Edit - I have just read the last few posts on the closed thread - WEll DONE FINN!!!! really pleased for you and your results.

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dobbyiscool - Jun 9, 2005 10:40 am (#155 of 2963)

I don't have a boyfriend or anything, but my parents and sister just don't get it. Perhaps all of us who aren't with anyone could have a chapter of the club? I like the 'They need to sort out their priorities' idea for a motto.

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I Am Used Vlad - Jun 9, 2005 10:45 am (#156 of 2963)

Congratulations, Brandon and Sarah.

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Good Evans - Jun 9, 2005 10:46 am (#157 of 2963)

hee hee hee - I like that Dobbyiscool!!!

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KWeldon - Jun 9, 2005 10:48 am (#158 of 2963)

LOVE that motto, Dobbyiscool!!!!

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applepie - Jun 9, 2005 11:01 am (#159 of 2963)

Julia, I love the motto. OK, it's officially decided.

Fans with Significant Others who Don't Understand Harry Potter -or- FSODUHP

I think that's an annoyingly long name and perfect name.

Motto: "They need to sort out their priorities"

Ok, let me get working on that formal list and some badges. Sit tight and I'll be back

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TwinklingBlueEyes      - Jun 9, 2005 11:16 am (#160 of 2963)

Congratulations, Sarah and Brandon!

On the down side...Barbie and Applepie, we have a tropical storm headed our way... just what we don't need, more rain! Maybe we should get together and build an Ark so we can read the HBP in peace?

P.S. Sign me up for the club too, please!

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Kip Carter - Jun 9, 2005 11:18 am (#161 of 2963)

applepie, if you need any assistance on the Forum in getting your new group together, please let me know by either email at kip@hp-lexicon.org or as a post on this thread.

If you want start a new thread nomed: Fans with Significant Others who Don't Understand Harry Potter -or- FSODUHP or Fans with Significant Others who Don't Understand Harry Potter (FSODUHP) or whatever, go ahead and start a discussion thread with the title you desire and in the initial post, tell about the group, how you join, what you do, etc., and I will move the new thread to the Harry Potter World folder or some other folder if that folder is not the best place.

I hope that makes sense. The next step is up to you!

P.S.: I would strongly suggest that your dues should not exceed one galleon annually due to the international flavor of our Forum family.

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John Bumbledore - Jun 9, 2005 11:19 am (#162 of 2963)

Jumping to the end just cause I can't wait any longer to post what I wanted to say in response to several post (now in the old thread, you know, previous to June 5.)

Hey, way back yonder, someone mentioned the worldcrossing.com e-address that comes with membership. Here is my understand or experience with it. From what I have received, it is a forwarding address. That is to say that mail addressed to your avatar_name@worldcrossing.com gets forwarded to the email address that you provided in your profile.

More than you want to know about your world crossing profile:
There is an option called " Maximum height of member portraits (pixels):" and I had this setting blank. So a certain member's avatar on her posts were as large as in her profile, then I set this max portrait height to 135 and now I see all y'all's avatars as being the same height. Oh that gives such a nicer way of reading the threads! ** Hem, if avatar portrait size correlates to ego, then a few of you deserves the "Loopy Loopin, Ego Award." ducking the dungbombs and running **

I also found that 9,999 characters per page appears to be the World Crossing maximum, so forget about the "maximum number of posts per page" when it comes to "chat thread posts!" Y'all are verbose! ** Okay! Me too, Also! **

<)B^D= John Bumbledore

P. S. Since I moved to the "deep" south in 1991 (meaning South Carolina) and then to North Carolina, I have adopted the word "Y'all." It is the "proper" spelling for the collective third person pronoun, "you." ** Chemyst, Catherine, et al. feel free to correct me, now. **

P. P. S. Okay, I would love to join such a group as "Fans with Significant Others who Don't Understand Harry Potter" or what ever you are calling it, but was thinking it was "virtual." A bit like the procrastinator's group. something to talk about but doesn't really exist, well, like Harry Potter! ** ducks dungbombs! ** But Mrs. Bumbledore loves the Harry Potter series just as much as I do. She is only just a tiny bit suspicious about who I am writing to and talking about on this forum.

We return you now to your irregular chat thread conversations. . .

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Ladybug220 - Jun 9, 2005 11:37 am (#163 of 2963) Reply
Edited by Jun 9, 2005 12:23 pm

Actually John, you aren't in the "Deep South" until you get to Alabama or Mississippi.

Edit: Sorry TBE! I didn't mean to do that!

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Grindylow - Jun 9, 2005 11:38 am (#164 of 2963)

I am in the south as well.......Tinnisee...

So are you saying that I have a worldcrossing email addy that forward any email received here to the address they have on file?

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TwinklingBlueEyes      - Jun 9, 2005 11:39 am (#165 of 2963)

Hmm, ya'll left us in Louisiana out of the "Deep South"?

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fleur-de-lys - Jun 9, 2005 11:41 am (#166 of 2963)

John, you're so lucky to have a spouse that understands. Does she post on the forum? I'm curious as to where in NC you live. Are you near Charlotte? The hubby and I are huge NASCAR fans and make a trek to the NASCAR mecca of Charlotte every three years. Also, I just read your profile and about the Mirror's inscription reading backwards. I, immediately, went to my SS and read the inscription. I am so impressed at your findings. I'm never that clever. I would NEVER have figured that out. Indeed, JK is quite clever and sneaky!!!!

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Grindylow - Jun 9, 2005 11:45 am (#167 of 2963)

What???? Mirror's inscription?????

******:runs to look at John's profile************

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Grindylow - Jun 9, 2005 11:48 am (#168 of 2963)

OHHHHHHHHHHHH......I don't have my book with me!!!!!

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applepie - Jun 9, 2005 11:50 am (#169 of 2963)

TBE, thanks for the update. More rain! I hope we end up on the west side of the storm so we don't get too wet.

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KWeldon - Jun 9, 2005 11:54 am (#170 of 2963)

If things like the Mirror of Erised slipped by you, I HIGHLY recommend the two books by Galadriel Waters, where she nitpicks all of the red herrings and foreshadowings. Very entertaining reading. There's one for HP1-4 and a preliminary book for HP5.

Search for them on Amazon, for example.

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applepie - Jun 9, 2005 11:56 am (#171 of 2963) Reply
Edited by Kip Carter Jun 9, 2005 12:31 pm

Hello all! I've just opened an new thread for our little group. Please feel free to post your membership on that thread so I can get a proper list going. I am trying to figure out a way to post a picture of our "official badges" on there....any suggestions?

Added Edit by Kip: Click here to transport yourself to Fans with Signigicant Others who Don't Understand Harry Potter.

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frogface - Jun 9, 2005 12:03 pm (#172 of 2963)

Hey all! I've never really done this chat and greet thing on this forum but applepie said I should come say hello so...hello! I'm 19/m/UK (quite close to Surrey actually where the Dursley's live, but I haven't been sad enough to try and see if there really is a Privet Drive ).

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Grindylow - Jun 9, 2005 12:05 pm (#173 of 2963)

Ooohhh...I will have to look for them. I did miss the mirror thing....is that sad or what?

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Marè - Jun 9, 2005 12:43 pm (#174 of 2963)

Hello Frogface, nice to see you here!

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CatherineHermiona - Jun 9, 2005 12:59 pm (#175 of 2963)

I haven't been on the forum for about 4-5 days because I was studying so I can pass 6th grade with 5. I almost had 4.45 average but
Music is 5(I thought it would be 4)
Croatian is 5
English is 5 (I'm the best)
Math is 5 (I'm the best and give lessons to classmates)
P. E. is 5 (I thought it would be 4 but I was competing in shooting)
Religion is 5
Geography is 5 (I thought it would be 4 because I got 2 at one exam (America) but I corrected that and got 5 and got two more 5s (one from Australia and Oceania, one so I can have 5 for end))
History is 5 (I hope. I will have to answer for 5)
Science is 4 (I thought it would be 3 because I got 2 from one exam (she took me paper because I helped classmates) but I found two 5s from beginning of semester)
Art is 4 (Little chance but it could be 5)
Technical Education is 4.
Now my average is 4.72 and it is 5!!!!!

P.S: End of this year is first time that I tried to study. But I realized that I don't know how to do that!!! But I still know enough and without some bigger effort (maybe a little bit more than before).

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KWeldon - Jun 9, 2005 1:07 pm (#176 of 2963)

Grindylow, you will be delighted with the books. There's a million more hidden treasures from JKR....

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applepie - Jun 9, 2005 1:08 pm (#177 of 2963)

CatherineHermiona, Congratulations! That is wonderful!

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fleur-de-lys - Jun 9, 2005 1:14 pm (#178 of 2963)

KWeldon, thanks for the bool tip. I will be checking them out. i miss so much.

CatheringHermiona, good job. That's quite impressive. You've studied hard and have done a good job. Now its time for a break. Relax and enjoy yourself. It must have taken tremendous willpower, something I don't have, to stay off the forum and dedicate yourself to studying. Bravo!

Frogface, I've seen you on other posts before, so welcome to the chat thread. Sometimes its hard to keep up. If you're away for a few days you may come back to find over 50 new posts to sort through. But don't get discouraged, its a fun thread, where we can really kick back and have a blast.

Applepie, I'm so excited about the new thread. I'm going right over there to check it out and put my name on the membership!

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Doris Crockford - Jun 9, 2005 1:25 pm (#179 of 2963)

Just popping in to say congratulations to Sarah and Brandon! Sarah, that's a really, really, really nice ring (and happy belated birthday, too)!

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Elanor - Jun 9, 2005 1:52 pm (#180 of 2963)

Congratulations Sarah and Brandon! Julia, thanks for the beautiful story and the lovely pictures!

Congratulations too CatherineHermiona!

Applepie, I love that thread idea and its motto is perfect!

My "little bro" turned 30 today (happy birthday Luc!). It is a weird feeling, I have trouble realizing he's not that little anymore! I guess some champagne and a nice cake on Sunday will help. I can't wait to tell him he is not 30 but twenty-ten!

I had more to say but it has been an exhausting day so I will just wish you all a wonderful Thursday and a very good night if it is already night for you, as it is for me!

EDIT: Thanks Applepie!

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applepie - Jun 9, 2005 1:54 pm (#181 of 2963)

Goodnight, Elanor. Pleasant "Potter" dreams!

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Penny Lane. - Jun 9, 2005 2:00 pm (#182 of 2963)

Congratulations CatherineHermiona! You sure did have a lot of classes, and you did well in all of them. Good job.

I spent the past few hours packing and moving things into storage. Its' way to hot to be doing this, I swear I'm simply dripping with sweat. My cats have been excited all day playing in boxes, and managed to wear themselves out. They are now hoging the air conditioning vent.

Ahh, back to work.

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Lina - Jun 9, 2005 2:15 pm (#183 of 2963)

Good Evans, it's only normal to miss your grandmother! Don't worry if you feel sad. With time it will get easier because you will have other things in your mind. But don't you ever stop enjoying the memories of her! They are the most precious legacy she left for you!

I have a little confession on the "Fans with Significant Others who Don't Understand Harry Potter" thing. My husband is very tolerant on that matter. He even tried to know HP better, he watched the first film and read the first book, but didn't get hooked. We are just used to the fact that we don't share all our interests and my Foruming doesn't bother him. But my mum, she is another story (maybe translation, again?) She thought I'm nuts. She just can't understand how can I talk to people I don't know. But I tell them some of the stories from the Forum and sometimes she finds them interesting, so I have the feeling that she is changing her mind. The biggest change has happened when CatherineHermiona joined the Forum - she thinks that it is even good for her! But still, I don't like to read or post when she is around.

John, did you make your avatar even smaller lately?

Sorry about the rain, people in "deep South", maybe it would help if I stop sending you my charms? (maybe I am misspelling something? Uhm... Let me see... I ment - mispronouncing )

Hello Frogface!

Happy birthday, Luc! I won't try that thing with the anniversaire.

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Amilia Smith - Jun 9, 2005 2:17 pm (#184 of 2963)

Congratulations Sarah and Brandon. May your lives together be long and fulfilling.

Congratulations to Kate as well. Those are very good grades.

Thank you for posting the race results for me yesterday, Elanor. Just reading those names made me so homesick for my TV. Never thought I'd say something like that . . . .

Mills.

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applepie - Jun 9, 2005 2:21 pm (#185 of 2963)

Lina, don't be silly. I think your drying charms have managed to keep the rain away during the day for me. So, they have worked, to a certain extent.

Good Evans, I am so sorry you are feeling "down". But, I'm sure this is a normal part of grieving. I would wonder about you if you weren't feeling a bit "down". I think the poetry will help a lot. Let me know if you ever need a friendly ear, although I cannot say that I've walked in your shoes, I do empathize with you. I'll keep you in my thoughts and prayers.

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Grindylow - Jun 9, 2005 2:25 pm (#186 of 2963)

Grindylow, you will be delighted with the books. There's a million more hidden treasures from JKR....

Thanks for the tip! I will go and look for them! I just got the book down and looked at the Mirror of Erised! WOWOWOWOWOWOW

How did I miss that????????????

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Finn BV - Jun 9, 2005 2:47 pm (#187 of 2963)

Whew, those 46 new messages were EXHAUSTING! Anyway, I've joined the Significant Others thing. Thanks, Applepie!

CatherineHermiona, that's fantastic! Those grades are really high; you said you're aiming for a 5 and it's basically a 5 in my book! That's really cool you practice shooting (Thanks, Lina, by the way, for the photo in the avatar).

Ok, well, this may well be my last post on this chat thread in two weeks. Obviously, in that time, you will have already made it through 3 new threads and about 13592 posts in the other threads. Oh, well. That "mark as read" button on the teal bar is going to come in very handy.

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applepie - Jun 9, 2005 2:48 pm (#188 of 2963)

Finn, have a wonderful time!

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T Brightwater - Jun 9, 2005 2:48 pm (#189 of 2963)

Congratulations, CatherineHermiona!

My husband, I'm glad to say, likes HP (and Terry Pratchett) as much as I do - a few months ago we were driving by a streetlight that went out as we passed, and he said "Someone got a Put-Outer for Christmas."

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applepie - Jun 9, 2005 2:52 pm (#190 of 2963)

T Brighwater, Very cute. Very cute, indeed. It's wonderful that you can share your enthusiasm with him.

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Ms Amanda - Jun 9, 2005 3:04 pm (#191 of 2963)

Hi, all!

Congratulations CatherineHermiona! Wonderful!

I'd really like to thank all those that have sent well wishes and kept the girl from my daycare in your thoughts. I'd like to update you all on the little girls' health.

We found out that indeed, her eye has been removed. Within the next week her family and doctors will decide if she will go on chemotherapy. She is receiving lots of love and support from her family.

The doctors have examined her other eye and decided that there is no cancer there. We're all hoping that it was caught soon enough to keep it from spreading.

To all those parents out there that drop a child off at daycare --- know that we who care for your children during the day really enjoy spending time with them. We're watching them grow and change every day, too, and we're proud of them. Please, though, if you happen to regularly leave your child at the daycare ten hours a day (and it happens unavoidably, I understand), make some special days to pick up the little one early, or drop in at lunch, and spend special time with them. Some centers even allow you to call your child during the day. It makes your child feel so special; they are just as proud of you as you are of them.

(Ok, I'm off my soapbox now. I just really needed to share for a little while.)

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timrew - Jun 9, 2005 3:34 pm (#192 of 2963)

I don't know. You read all the messages on the forum, go to bed, wake, go to work; and come back to find another 80 messages on the Chat Thread!

So, a belated but still heartfelt congratulations to Brandon and Sarah on their engagement! Sorry it's so late!

And, by the way, nice ring!!

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Chemyst - Jun 9, 2005 3:41 pm (#193 of 2963)

Congratulations Brandon & Sarah.

...and thanks for the photos too, Julia.
What with the limitations of the forum, (and all appropriate apologies, Scully, but,) my mental image of a Sym in tulle just wasn't conforming with the lovely ring, so Julia's pictures were a big help. You will make a beautiful bride. By the way, what was that interesting wall in the background?

* * * * *


Madam Poppy & Ozy, good to hear from both of you again.

phaseolus vulgaris, with a name like that, I had to google. Is there any significance to being a bean?

Congratulations CatherineHermiona.

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boop - Jun 9, 2005 3:48 pm (#194 of 2963)

CONGRATULATIONS BRANDON & SARAH!!!! That is beautiful. I am so so so happy for you both. Can't wait to see you both in July. Lots of HUGS. I love you both.

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Stephanie M. - Jun 9, 2005 5:24 pm (#195 of 2963)

Well I'm off to the Bahamas... I'm going to miss all of you! I'll think of you guys often. (It sounds like I'm moving to a place with no Internet connection!) No I'm really happy I'm going, but I checked this thread about an hour ago and since then there have been 23 new messages for me. Just imagine 6 days from now!!! Well as I've said I'm off to pack so I can leave my house at 5:45 IN THE MORNING!!! I'm never going to wake up!!!

Well my scrape isn't that much better, but I have only put the Aloe Vera gel on twice, (I'm lazy what can I say!)so maybe it will get better with a good nights sleep (that I won't be getting because I'm waking up at 5:15 IN THE MORNING!!!!)

Okay I love you all! Stephanie

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Julie Aronson  - Jun 9, 2005 5:53 pm (#196 of 2963)

First and foremost--CONGRATUALTIONS BRANDON AND SARAH!

Now, I know it was a long-ago discussed topic, but I really like Deadwood. The coarse language is definitely shocking, especially at first, but if you take the time to truly get into the show you will find that the speech patterns seem to suit the characters, and they ALL have unique vocabularies. Plus, it's hard not to like a show that's largely written in blank verse!

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Thora - Jun 9, 2005 6:06 pm (#197 of 2963)

Sarah and Brandon, CONGRATULATIONS! I can't wait to meet you in July! I'm so very happy for you both.

Ms. Amanda, I'm sending a big hug. My best friend is a daycare provider and I know she loves the kids in her class very much. I hope all goes well with the little dear. My heart and prayers go out to her.

I would join the mugglelovers club but my husband is a bit of a fan himself and is quite supportive of my obsessive behavior, bless him, he's such a dear.

OH and the vanilla thing works when painting too, put a few drops pure vanilla extract in each can and it will cut out the smell while the paint dries, my sister swears by it, though to be honest I loooooove the smell of fresh paint, mmmmmmm... drying latex paint, the smell of happines. It all dates back to when I would paint scenery for hours on end (Waves at GryffEndora again, love the picture of the costume. I've been trying to get a pic taken of my gown for my party in July... why does life have to conflict with my HP?)

Thora

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applepie - Jun 9, 2005 6:15 pm (#198 of 2963)
Edited Jun 9, 2005 6:51 pm

Ms Amanda, I am glad to hear that the child is adjusting as best as can be expected. I am sure the family is glad she is in such good hands. I hate to be separated from my children, and couldn't imagine being away from them any longer than possible. As soon as I leave work, I pick them up, no matter what I have to do. The first thing I want to do is get to them. I wish there were a way for me to work part-time so I could pick them up straight from school and they wouldn't have to go to after-school care.

Well, I have a moment to check the threads in peace. My hubby is at a baseball game as umpire and my eldest son is with him. My youngest is on the sofa next to me watching Episode II (Star Wars...like you didn't know).

Off to the threads....

Edit: Lina - Great news...Your drying charm worked! No rain today. I figured that it was going to take a little longer to reach me. After all...time and space do matter in magic. Thanks for your well wishes. We were actually able to play ball tonight!

Well, the forum is pretty quiet right now, so I'm off to read. Good night to all.

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Denise P. - Jun 9, 2005 7:38 pm (#199 of 2963)

Catherine, we have not had a Blossom update in awhile. How goes the great possum hunt?

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GryffEndora - Jun 9, 2005 7:54 pm (#200 of 2963)

Well, spend a day away from the forum and 86 posts to catch up on.

Happy birthday and Congratulations to you and Brandon. I wish you love, laughter and understanding.

fleur-de-lys - I also strongly recommend Chiropractic! They start with x-rays, use heat, cold, hydro-therapy, electric stimulus, massage and adjustment. I spent 5 months bed ridden with IBS. My doctors just medicated me but couldn't get me out of bed. on a recommendation I saw a Chiropractor and I was better in a few weeks. When you think that every part of you body is connected to your brain through your nervous system that travels through your spine it makes sense to make sure the nerves are communicating clearly and not pinched or compressed. Ok, enough testimony for today.

Julia - Thanks for the background story and the pics they really helped paint the picture and make me even happier for the happy couple.

CatherineHermonia - Congratulations on the great grades. I hope you are proud of yourself!

Everyone else, try to stay dry, be happy and hug someone you love!