- I tend to put things off until the last minute these days, but go ballistic when others do the same to me.
- (#100 on my list of "100 Things...")When I putt, I look at the hole, rather than the ball. It's worked well for me over the years, but it drives my fellow golfers nuts.
- I'll often sing along with whatever music I'm listening to, but I rarely ever sing the melody.
- If I'm eating fast food that includes a sesame seed bun, I have to eat every seed that falls in the wrapper. I paid for those--I'm not going to waste them!
- I have a small collection of defectively printed Dr. Pepper cans, including one that says, "DOES NOT CONTAIN MORE THAN 3.2% OF ALCOHOL BY WEIGHT" on the lid.
- Ocassionally I'll be listening to someone talk, and all of a sudden a common word or phrase sounds like totally nonsensical gibberish to me. I can even have them repeat it to me once or twice, yet I'll be totally clueless as to what they're saying. So I'll just smile and nod.
Friday, December 08, 2006
Repeat: 6 Weird Things
I had really thought I was going to be able to avoid the current "6 Weird Things" tag. It's been going on for so long, and you all have been kind enough to not tag me. Until Evalee decided to take the bull by the horns. Well, then I remembered I did this back in June already, so here's the repeat (without all the "official" stuff you're supposed to put at the top):
Da Count #13
OK--today's Count is a bit more selfish of me. It involves the UM Grizzlies, and the semifinals of the Division I Championship Series. The Griz are hosting one of the two semifinal games tonight at 5:30 PM MST. And best of all--it's going to be televised nationally on ESPN2.
So my Count today is simple. The Griz, the UMass Minutemen, ESPN2. Championship football. Friday night. Does it get much better?
If you want to read more about "Da Count", click on the button below...
So my Count today is simple. The Griz, the UMass Minutemen, ESPN2. Championship football. Friday night. Does it get much better?
If you want to read more about "Da Count", click on the button below...
Thursday, December 07, 2006
FREEDOM HNT
Big, big news today!! It's over! I'm legal again!!! We'll, more precisely, my CAR is legal again. Remember this post from 90 days ago? Where my car was punished by having its license plates suspended for 90 days for allowing itself to be driven without proof of insurance? Bad car! Bad, bad car! Well, the 90 days has ended, and now my car can go anywhere, at any time, with anyone driving it. No more "employment purposes only" restrictions. Perhaps I can now admit that there were maybe 4 times when it snuck out illegally. Once to the store, once to my sister's for Thanksgiving, once to my parent's, and once to Rachel's to paint or something. Any other time--it was strictly to/from work. Of course, driving to rehearsals counted in there, since I get paid. Same with gigs. And if I had to stop in the symphony office at 11:30 at night to grab some paperwork, then that counts as work. And stopping at the store on the way home is technically covered...
So did my car learn its lesson? Actually, yes. Never drive without current plates, insurance or driver's license. My car would like to thank all of you who sent kind words of love and encouragement to it during its 90 days of punishment... (click it to big it)
This week's Mystery Guest is well known in the HNT world. She's been around for quite awhile, though we're usually graced with far less clothing than this. She's had problems at times with her site being hijacked, but doesn't seem to be too perturbed about it. She was a multiple contributor to this year's Boobie-Thon, which shouldn't be too surprising.
We'll be revealing her identity on Thursday afternoon, but if you think you know who it is, feel free to stop by and ask!
War Eagle. (I have NO idea what that means...)
Drum roll, please... The MG today was the Party In A Ponytail herself, Betchacantguesswho. Betcha, to her good friends. Stop by and check out her warm weather attire! Say hi while you're there too!
"...the Other HNT" has been seeing dwindling submissions, yet is still getting close to 2500 hit/week. I'm going to chalk up the participation levels to the holiday rush. Be sure to stop by and check out those did, though! As usual--NSFW!
Don't forget next week's special HNT theme! Christmas Tree HNT! Click the link at the top of my sidebar for the details.
So did my car learn its lesson? Actually, yes. Never drive without current plates, insurance or driver's license. My car would like to thank all of you who sent kind words of love and encouragement to it during its 90 days of punishment... (click it to big it)
This week's Mystery Guest is well known in the HNT world. She's been around for quite awhile, though we're usually graced with far less clothing than this. She's had problems at times with her site being hijacked, but doesn't seem to be too perturbed about it. She was a multiple contributor to this year's Boobie-Thon, which shouldn't be too surprising.
We'll be revealing her identity on Thursday afternoon, but if you think you know who it is, feel free to stop by and ask!
War Eagle. (I have NO idea what that means...)
Drum roll, please... The MG today was the Party In A Ponytail herself, Betchacantguesswho. Betcha, to her good friends. Stop by and check out her warm weather attire! Say hi while you're there too!
"...the Other HNT" has been seeing dwindling submissions, yet is still getting close to 2500 hit/week. I'm going to chalk up the participation levels to the holiday rush. Be sure to stop by and check out those did, though! As usual--NSFW!
Don't forget next week's special HNT theme! Christmas Tree HNT! Click the link at the top of my sidebar for the details.
Tuesday, December 05, 2006
Pics/Cheating on Michelle/Bob Rivers Twisted Christmas
I only have one picture for "...the Other HNT" so far. Need to get some of you to submit!! Sort of a weak showing last week, too...
I did something tonight that I haven't done in probably over 20 years. You've all probably read about my cheating on Michelle over the years, primarily with Amy. And last week I came clean about Betsy. Well, tonight I spent the evening with someone new. I basically cheated on them all.
Sometimes in life you just need some variety. And you go out and find whatever you can, wherever you can. I was looking for a deeper, more seductive voice. A well built, compact body. And I didn't want to do all the work that I have to do with Michelle. I just wanted to hug tonight, with my arms tight around her--not so much arm action, more focused on fingering. And I found her. She took my breath away, literally! I was actually huffing and puffing at times. At other times, I'd take her off my lap and gently lower her to the floor, but never leaving my hands. And while it may seem cruel, Michelle just watched. Knowing that I was hers, and she was mine, but that sometimes she just couldn't do it for me.
Her name was Bertha. Well maybe not, but that's what I call her. I may not be with her again, but she's got relatives here in town, and I'll call around to find another. It reminds me of my days of undergrad, when I was somewhat faithful to one, but played around anyway. Long before I hooked up with Michelle. I'll take Michelle with me to our gig on Saturday night--it's an overnighter down near Yellowstone Park. But then she knows I have to be back with Bertha or one of her relatives on Sunday.
We have a family holiday concert on Sunday, and I'll be playing tuba. Something that I haven't done seriously since 1985. Surprising how quickly it all came back, and just as surprising how out of shape I am! All will be good by the weekend...
I don't know if this is a regional thing, or if those east of the Mississippi have heard of this guy. Bob Rivers has a radio show based out of Seattle. He's a musician, as well, and years ago started to record parodies of various songs, all under the grouping of "Twisted Tunes". Christmas rolled around, so of course he had to do "Twisted Christmas". He has since released 5 CDs of "Twisted Christmas" songs. His arrangements sound eerily similar to the originals, much like Weird Al Yankovic's treatment of songs, but either changing lyrics of carols to fit various stories, or remaking classic rock songs with carol-type lyrics ("O Little Town of Bethlehem" done to the tune of "House of the Rising Sun"). Or coming up with original songs that are humorous, but instill the joy of the season.
This particular song is "Toy Sack" (done to "Love Shack"). Enjoy!
I did something tonight that I haven't done in probably over 20 years. You've all probably read about my cheating on Michelle over the years, primarily with Amy. And last week I came clean about Betsy. Well, tonight I spent the evening with someone new. I basically cheated on them all.
Sometimes in life you just need some variety. And you go out and find whatever you can, wherever you can. I was looking for a deeper, more seductive voice. A well built, compact body. And I didn't want to do all the work that I have to do with Michelle. I just wanted to hug tonight, with my arms tight around her--not so much arm action, more focused on fingering. And I found her. She took my breath away, literally! I was actually huffing and puffing at times. At other times, I'd take her off my lap and gently lower her to the floor, but never leaving my hands. And while it may seem cruel, Michelle just watched. Knowing that I was hers, and she was mine, but that sometimes she just couldn't do it for me.
Her name was Bertha. Well maybe not, but that's what I call her. I may not be with her again, but she's got relatives here in town, and I'll call around to find another. It reminds me of my days of undergrad, when I was somewhat faithful to one, but played around anyway. Long before I hooked up with Michelle. I'll take Michelle with me to our gig on Saturday night--it's an overnighter down near Yellowstone Park. But then she knows I have to be back with Bertha or one of her relatives on Sunday.
We have a family holiday concert on Sunday, and I'll be playing tuba. Something that I haven't done seriously since 1985. Surprising how quickly it all came back, and just as surprising how out of shape I am! All will be good by the weekend...
I don't know if this is a regional thing, or if those east of the Mississippi have heard of this guy. Bob Rivers has a radio show based out of Seattle. He's a musician, as well, and years ago started to record parodies of various songs, all under the grouping of "Twisted Tunes". Christmas rolled around, so of course he had to do "Twisted Christmas". He has since released 5 CDs of "Twisted Christmas" songs. His arrangements sound eerily similar to the originals, much like Weird Al Yankovic's treatment of songs, but either changing lyrics of carols to fit various stories, or remaking classic rock songs with carol-type lyrics ("O Little Town of Bethlehem" done to the tune of "House of the Rising Sun"). Or coming up with original songs that are humorous, but instill the joy of the season.
This particular song is "Toy Sack" (done to "Love Shack"). Enjoy!
Monday, December 04, 2006
Dad Update/Britney/More Christmas Music
Remember back in June, when I posted that "they" found that Dad had cancer (with a little "c")? I was chatting with someone tonight, and they mentioned that their mother was going into surgery this week. It dawned on me that I hadn't updated about Dad! A decision was made last month to go ahead and perform surgery on him because the tumor was still bleeding. So Mom & Dad ran off to Vegas last week (I think--I haven't talked to them since last weekend...), and then Dad was to have surgery Tuesday. While I was chatting with the aforementioned person, I got this following email from Mom (in its entirety):
This is what they did to him. Wrong on so many levels. But I guess he's OK. You know as much as I do. I'll get an update for you.
*--It should be noted that I have a great relationship with my parents, and that I'm being facetious about all this. Other than the fact that I really thought the surgery was supposed to be Tuesday. And that I haven't spoken to them since last weekend. And that Mom emails me, in spite of the fact we live two blocks away from each other... Rachel will vouch for me!
When I was managing a CD store in the latter part of the 90s, I got a phone call from a young woman asking if we had the new single out by Britney Spears. I used all my resources and came up with nothing. No artist by that name. This woman told me that Britney was her cousin, and that her grandmother had the single, and that she had a website through her label. Lo and behold, there she was--this pubescent schoolgirl with the big smile. And her first album was to come out soon. Being all about customer service, I clicked on the "Email Britney!" button, explained that I was writing for her cousin. Two days later, I got a reply. From Britney. Highly doubtful it was from one of her flunkies, because it came from more of a personal AOL account, and mentioned her cousin by name, which I hadn't done. Of course, she also managed to get me some singles for her cousin.
Fast forward a couple of years later. Her cousin got us some autographed materials for the store after going to SLC to see her in concert. I still have the insert to the first CD, autographed by her. It was a big attraction in the store. Helena gossip machines were in full force when it was leaked that she had snuck into town to visit her family here. Of course, she hadn't, but we had the autograph, so we played up the fact that she was in the store, and had signed it here, and her DNA was probably on the counter by the till. Fast forward another year, and I saw her in concert in Washington at the Gorge on my way to a different concert in Seattle. Luck of the draw there, but I did get to see her in her "prime".
Fast forward to the present. If you haven't had the pleasure of seeing it yet, or even hearing about it, there are pictures of her out on the town with Paris, with no panties, and flashing her hoohaw to just about anyone with a camera nearby. I won't bother with a link--just google it. There's plenty out there. It's a little (OK, alot) pathetic what money, fame, bad parenting and bad management has done for that particular generation of young females. Brit, Lindsay, Paris, Nicole, Ashley, Mary Kate, and numerous others. Almost all of them lacking real talent, all of them totally out of touch with normal reality, all of them totally out of control. Used to be a time that every boy's fantasy would be Britney appearing in Playboy. I don't think Hef would even be remotely interested anymore...
To cleanse the palate...I'm going to start with the Christmas music review. This won't be a daily thing, but I'll try to do at least every other day. Depends on how busy I am. I'll include the singing snow people to let you know it's a Christmas song coming up!
Today's particular song is "Jingle Bells" by the country trio SheDaisy. They released their Christmas album in 2000, after just one CD to their name. In my opinion, this album is, BY FAR, the most original album of Christmas music of anything out there. It's got their trademark vocal sound, of course, but the arrangements are superb. What do you do to "Jingle Bells" that hasn't been done before? You Celtic-ize it, rework the melody, and present a totally different sort of a song. They give other diverse treatments to many familiar songs, and add a couple of their own songs to the mix. Overall, a highly recommended CD (even if you're not a country fan--little of this album sounds "country").
- Dad's surgery today went very well. He'll be in overnite and should come home tomorrow. Later, Mom
This is what they did to him. Wrong on so many levels. But I guess he's OK. You know as much as I do. I'll get an update for you.*--It should be noted that I have a great relationship with my parents, and that I'm being facetious about all this. Other than the fact that I really thought the surgery was supposed to be Tuesday. And that I haven't spoken to them since last weekend. And that Mom emails me, in spite of the fact we live two blocks away from each other... Rachel will vouch for me!
When I was managing a CD store in the latter part of the 90s, I got a phone call from a young woman asking if we had the new single out by Britney Spears. I used all my resources and came up with nothing. No artist by that name. This woman told me that Britney was her cousin, and that her grandmother had the single, and that she had a website through her label. Lo and behold, there she was--this pubescent schoolgirl with the big smile. And her first album was to come out soon. Being all about customer service, I clicked on the "Email Britney!" button, explained that I was writing for her cousin. Two days later, I got a reply. From Britney. Highly doubtful it was from one of her flunkies, because it came from more of a personal AOL account, and mentioned her cousin by name, which I hadn't done. Of course, she also managed to get me some singles for her cousin.
Fast forward a couple of years later. Her cousin got us some autographed materials for the store after going to SLC to see her in concert. I still have the insert to the first CD, autographed by her. It was a big attraction in the store. Helena gossip machines were in full force when it was leaked that she had snuck into town to visit her family here. Of course, she hadn't, but we had the autograph, so we played up the fact that she was in the store, and had signed it here, and her DNA was probably on the counter by the till. Fast forward another year, and I saw her in concert in Washington at the Gorge on my way to a different concert in Seattle. Luck of the draw there, but I did get to see her in her "prime".
Fast forward to the present. If you haven't had the pleasure of seeing it yet, or even hearing about it, there are pictures of her out on the town with Paris, with no panties, and flashing her hoohaw to just about anyone with a camera nearby. I won't bother with a link--just google it. There's plenty out there. It's a little (OK, alot) pathetic what money, fame, bad parenting and bad management has done for that particular generation of young females. Brit, Lindsay, Paris, Nicole, Ashley, Mary Kate, and numerous others. Almost all of them lacking real talent, all of them totally out of touch with normal reality, all of them totally out of control. Used to be a time that every boy's fantasy would be Britney appearing in Playboy. I don't think Hef would even be remotely interested anymore...
To cleanse the palate...I'm going to start with the Christmas music review. This won't be a daily thing, but I'll try to do at least every other day. Depends on how busy I am. I'll include the singing snow people to let you know it's a Christmas song coming up!
Today's particular song is "Jingle Bells" by the country trio SheDaisy. They released their Christmas album in 2000, after just one CD to their name. In my opinion, this album is, BY FAR, the most original album of Christmas music of anything out there. It's got their trademark vocal sound, of course, but the arrangements are superb. What do you do to "Jingle Bells" that hasn't been done before? You Celtic-ize it, rework the melody, and present a totally different sort of a song. They give other diverse treatments to many familiar songs, and add a couple of their own songs to the mix. Overall, a highly recommended CD (even if you're not a country fan--little of this album sounds "country").
Musical Monday #12
Before hitting Musical Monday #12, stop by Teri's site and say hi!
Now that December is well ensconced in my mind, I suppose it's time to torture you with my favorite Christmas music. I'll be doing that all month, probably a couple of times/week. I'm a sucker for almost all types of Christmas music. I like the overblown arrangements with full choir and orchestra. I like jazz versions (Duke Ellington did a jazz version of "The Nutcracker" that is incredible!). I like offbeat parodies. I LOVE the Bob Rivers "Twisted Christmas" series. I'll even tolerate the Barking Dogs and the damned Chipmunks. I despise the live shows on the Christian networks with some washed-up singer with full orchestra. Showing in mid-October. I also despise what country singers tend to do with Christmas songs. Seems like it's a chance to add a handful of mediocre songs to an album. Of course, there's exceptions, but that's my general approach to what's out there.
I'll be picking out songs/versions that you may or may not have heard. As well as my opinions on some relatively obscure Christmas albums out there. The hardest thing about Christmas is that it takes a couple of generations for a song to really "make it" as a Christmas classic. The last "classic" was probably "The Christmas Song", written by Mel Tormé. Sure, there's been many fine recordings by current artists, but mostly performing one of the "classics". And there's probably a couple of candidates for "classic" status, but I don't know that they've quite made it. So how does an artist or band impress us with Christmas music? By presenting it in a way that we haven't heard or associated with the original.
Which brings us to today's selection. Russ Freeman is the guitarist/leader for the jazz fusion group "The Rippingtons". This is his Caribbean-esque version of "God Rest Ye, Gentlemen" from the album Holiday. It's got a great feel, and is quite surprising at first listen. Hell, even at the first hundred listens! I hope you like it!
Now that December is well ensconced in my mind, I suppose it's time to torture you with my favorite Christmas music. I'll be doing that all month, probably a couple of times/week. I'm a sucker for almost all types of Christmas music. I like the overblown arrangements with full choir and orchestra. I like jazz versions (Duke Ellington did a jazz version of "The Nutcracker" that is incredible!). I like offbeat parodies. I LOVE the Bob Rivers "Twisted Christmas" series. I'll even tolerate the Barking Dogs and the damned Chipmunks. I despise the live shows on the Christian networks with some washed-up singer with full orchestra. Showing in mid-October. I also despise what country singers tend to do with Christmas songs. Seems like it's a chance to add a handful of mediocre songs to an album. Of course, there's exceptions, but that's my general approach to what's out there.
I'll be picking out songs/versions that you may or may not have heard. As well as my opinions on some relatively obscure Christmas albums out there. The hardest thing about Christmas is that it takes a couple of generations for a song to really "make it" as a Christmas classic. The last "classic" was probably "The Christmas Song", written by Mel Tormé. Sure, there's been many fine recordings by current artists, but mostly performing one of the "classics". And there's probably a couple of candidates for "classic" status, but I don't know that they've quite made it. So how does an artist or band impress us with Christmas music? By presenting it in a way that we haven't heard or associated with the original.
Which brings us to today's selection. Russ Freeman is the guitarist/leader for the jazz fusion group "The Rippingtons". This is his Caribbean-esque version of "God Rest Ye, Gentlemen" from the album Holiday. It's got a great feel, and is quite surprising at first listen. Hell, even at the first hundred listens! I hope you like it!
Sunday, December 03, 2006
December Is Here!
Lots of stuff going on for the next week or so. Must be December! Lots of different things to ramble about...
Some of you might have noticed a prior post that I took down. I couldn't get Haloscan to keep comments anonymous--kept on putting the homepages up. So I just took it down. Too bad. I think there could have been some interesting ones!
You all have obviously seen that the template has changed again! I might try to keep doing Christmasy things with it. Without getting too cluttered. Many thanks to the one who tried to help me last night. I know we'll get it figured out!
I got an email from a new blogger looking for some friends out here. I think I convinced her that "our" little community is relatively safe and friendly. Her name is Teri, and she'd be happy to hear from you! Go by and say hi!
Tree is up, but still need to put up lights and stuff. I've never put up a fake tree. It's always been a real one, and not one from a lot. It's not a real tree unless you go out and hunt one down yourself! But my parents let me have theirs, since they just do a tabletop one now. Have to admit--it looks pretty good, even though it's nekkid!
Speaking of nekkid--don't forget that the HNT for Dec. 14th involves your Christmas tree. Click on the link at the top of my sidebar to get the details!
My UM Grizzlies beat the S. Illinois Salukis (what's a saluki? a skinny-ass dog. just thought you'd like to know) by a score of 20-3. That means that the Griz host the UMass Minutemen next weekend. The top 4 seeds in the playoffs are in the semis. The way it should be. Hear that BCS??
MSU Bobcats lost to #1 Appalachian State. Kept it pretty good for the first 2 1/2 quarters, but ended up losing by three TDs. But not bad for a team that wasn't even expected to be in the playoffs. Congrats (but the Griz are still playing!).
Sunday night we do Handel's "Messiah". In that church up in the header. The concert is sold out, as it usually is (we do it every year). Should be a spectacular concert. Most people in Helena consider the Christmas season officially started with this concert. That will take up all my day Sunday, so I won't be around at all.
James Taylor's new Christmas CD? Superb!
The kid that wrote the book "Eragon", which comes in theaters on Dec. 15th--from Montana. About 3 hours away. Imagine that!
"Rocky Balboa"--Christmas Day--oh, yeah!
That's about it... I'll be back soon!
Some of you might have noticed a prior post that I took down. I couldn't get Haloscan to keep comments anonymous--kept on putting the homepages up. So I just took it down. Too bad. I think there could have been some interesting ones!
You all have obviously seen that the template has changed again! I might try to keep doing Christmasy things with it. Without getting too cluttered. Many thanks to the one who tried to help me last night. I know we'll get it figured out!
I got an email from a new blogger looking for some friends out here. I think I convinced her that "our" little community is relatively safe and friendly. Her name is Teri, and she'd be happy to hear from you! Go by and say hi!
Tree is up, but still need to put up lights and stuff. I've never put up a fake tree. It's always been a real one, and not one from a lot. It's not a real tree unless you go out and hunt one down yourself! But my parents let me have theirs, since they just do a tabletop one now. Have to admit--it looks pretty good, even though it's nekkid!
Speaking of nekkid--don't forget that the HNT for Dec. 14th involves your Christmas tree. Click on the link at the top of my sidebar to get the details!
My UM Grizzlies beat the S. Illinois Salukis (what's a saluki? a skinny-ass dog. just thought you'd like to know) by a score of 20-3. That means that the Griz host the UMass Minutemen next weekend. The top 4 seeds in the playoffs are in the semis. The way it should be. Hear that BCS??
MSU Bobcats lost to #1 Appalachian State. Kept it pretty good for the first 2 1/2 quarters, but ended up losing by three TDs. But not bad for a team that wasn't even expected to be in the playoffs. Congrats (but the Griz are still playing!).
Sunday night we do Handel's "Messiah". In that church up in the header. The concert is sold out, as it usually is (we do it every year). Should be a spectacular concert. Most people in Helena consider the Christmas season officially started with this concert. That will take up all my day Sunday, so I won't be around at all.
James Taylor's new Christmas CD? Superb!
The kid that wrote the book "Eragon", which comes in theaters on Dec. 15th--from Montana. About 3 hours away. Imagine that!
"Rocky Balboa"--Christmas Day--oh, yeah!
That's about it... I'll be back soon!
Friday, December 01, 2006
Da Count #12
PATIENCE - of others, that is. Personally, my patience tolerance is pretty high. I can sit around and wait with the best of them. Particularly if things are out of my control. On personal interaction matters, it's a different story. I have little patience for those who waste time. My time, other people's time, even their own time. I've gotten better. Other people have their own lives to lead, and sometimes things come up. But still... If I'm ready to do something, then shit or get off the pot! Let's git 'er done!
My count for today is YOUR patience. It's "Symphony Week" again. And a bonus! Two weeks in a row! We're doing Handel's "Messiah" on Sunday night in the church above (Cathedral of St. Helena), and then a family holiday concert on the next Sunday afternoon. Lots of rehearsal, and throw in an away gig next weekend as well, and you can see that I'm going to be busy, busy, busy. So I ask for your patience with me. I won't be around as much to chat with. I might miss out on a couple things. But after next Sunday night, I'm all yours!
If you want to read more about "Da Count", click on the button below...
My count for today is YOUR patience. It's "Symphony Week" again. And a bonus! Two weeks in a row! We're doing Handel's "Messiah" on Sunday night in the church above (Cathedral of St. Helena), and then a family holiday concert on the next Sunday afternoon. Lots of rehearsal, and throw in an away gig next weekend as well, and you can see that I'm going to be busy, busy, busy. So I ask for your patience with me. I won't be around as much to chat with. I might miss out on a couple things. But after next Sunday night, I'm all yours!
If you want to read more about "Da Count", click on the button below...
Thursday, November 30, 2006
Bass-ic HNT
Remember when I dropped my computer and the monitor caught the corner of the external drive? Remember how the initial contact point looked? It's now about 5 weeks later. See how the screen appears to be "bleeding"? Just a point of information--don't let your computer fall...
Click 'em to big 'em!
I was chatting away with someone about the 25 Questions post (and thanks to all who asked questions) and the other question meme, and realized that there's something about my music life that I haven't really talked about much here. No, I'm not the 5th Monkee, nor the reincarnation of Spike Jones (I hope some of you know who he was...).
Here it is--I've got another secret love in my life. Her name is Betsy. Not quite the love that I share with Michelle, but this one was around long before her, and is still around. She's got a great shape--oh, a wonderful shape. She loves to be fingered and stroked, and is at her finest when she's wrapped around me. Just like Michelle, she's been a little abused, but has been loyal to me. Betsy's also got a sibling, just like Michelle, but this one's been staying in a foster home. I'll see her on occasion, but not at all recently.
In my chat mentioned above, it dawned on me that Betsy and I haven't been close in a long time. So I pulled her out into the light today. I plucked her a little. It was good. It reminded me of the times when I was an undergrad and we were inseparable. When we were out playing jazz or some rock together. Egads, even were able to disco! We don't have the chance much to get out these days. It was just wonderful to see her again!
Back in the day, I was an excellent bassist. These days, I'd say I'm pretty good. I don't have the technique that many have, or the electronics to really sound "contemporary", but I read better than most, and can play jazz changes far better than most. Quite frankly, I feel far more comfortable playing bass than I do bone. With apologies with some other HNTers who have posed with their basses (the best one coming to mind being Everything Nice), I present myself and Betsy. My Gibson SB-450 bass guitar. (maybe more pictures at a later date...)
Red wine and red velvet. A beautiful combination. Oh, our Mystery Guest is here too! She has not contacted me about revealing herself, so unless I do, she's going to stay a mystery. I can tell you that she's a longtime HNTer, though there was that long time that she took off... She's beautiful, she's fun-loving, and she's got attitude! Loved by many, hated by none. Be sure to check back to see if she tells us who she is! Feel free to email her if you think you know!
"...the Other HNT" is running pretty light tonight. Must be too many people getting fat over Thanksgiving... Be sure to stop by!
There's plans for the HNTs of December. Check the top of my sidebar with links to the last three Thursdays of the year!
Click 'em to big 'em!
I was chatting away with someone about the 25 Questions post (and thanks to all who asked questions) and the other question meme, and realized that there's something about my music life that I haven't really talked about much here. No, I'm not the 5th Monkee, nor the reincarnation of Spike Jones (I hope some of you know who he was...).
Here it is--I've got another secret love in my life. Her name is Betsy. Not quite the love that I share with Michelle, but this one was around long before her, and is still around. She's got a great shape--oh, a wonderful shape. She loves to be fingered and stroked, and is at her finest when she's wrapped around me. Just like Michelle, she's been a little abused, but has been loyal to me. Betsy's also got a sibling, just like Michelle, but this one's been staying in a foster home. I'll see her on occasion, but not at all recently.
In my chat mentioned above, it dawned on me that Betsy and I haven't been close in a long time. So I pulled her out into the light today. I plucked her a little. It was good. It reminded me of the times when I was an undergrad and we were inseparable. When we were out playing jazz or some rock together. Egads, even were able to disco! We don't have the chance much to get out these days. It was just wonderful to see her again!
Back in the day, I was an excellent bassist. These days, I'd say I'm pretty good. I don't have the technique that many have, or the electronics to really sound "contemporary", but I read better than most, and can play jazz changes far better than most. Quite frankly, I feel far more comfortable playing bass than I do bone. With apologies with some other HNTers who have posed with their basses (the best one coming to mind being Everything Nice), I present myself and Betsy. My Gibson SB-450 bass guitar. (maybe more pictures at a later date...)
Red wine and red velvet. A beautiful combination. Oh, our Mystery Guest is here too! She has not contacted me about revealing herself, so unless I do, she's going to stay a mystery. I can tell you that she's a longtime HNTer, though there was that long time that she took off... She's beautiful, she's fun-loving, and she's got attitude! Loved by many, hated by none. Be sure to check back to see if she tells us who she is! Feel free to email her if you think you know!"...the Other HNT" is running pretty light tonight. Must be too many people getting fat over Thanksgiving... Be sure to stop by!
There's plans for the HNTs of December. Check the top of my sidebar with links to the last three Thursdays of the year!
Monday, November 27, 2006
More stuff about me...
OK--I stole this from Leesa, only because I bombed so badly on hers, and she told me I had to do this. So...
WITHOUT going into my archives.... Can you answer these questions?
What is my middle name?
How tall am I?
What kind of car do I drive?
Am I left-handed or right-handed?
Where did I go to school?
What am I afraid of?
Do I smoke?
Do I drink?
Do I have any siblings? How many?
What state was I born in?
What year?
Name a state I have lived in other than Montana.
How many piercings do I have?
Am I shy or outgoing?
Am I a rebel or do I follow the rules?
What’s my favorite color?
Name something I love?
Name a talent I have?
What kind of shoes do I wear?
Do I have any pets?
What is my worst habit?
If I were stranded on a desert island, what would I bring?
Leesa was giving a prize, don't expect one from me!
Have fun!
WITHOUT going into my archives.... Can you answer these questions?
What is my middle name?
How tall am I?
What kind of car do I drive?
Am I left-handed or right-handed?
Where did I go to school?
What am I afraid of?
Do I smoke?
Do I drink?
Do I have any siblings? How many?
What state was I born in?
What year?
Name a state I have lived in other than Montana.
How many piercings do I have?
Am I shy or outgoing?
Am I a rebel or do I follow the rules?
What’s my favorite color?
Name something I love?
Name a talent I have?
What kind of shoes do I wear?
Do I have any pets?
What is my worst habit?
If I were stranded on a desert island, what would I bring?
Leesa was giving a prize, don't expect one from me!
Have fun!
More Miscellaneous Mish-Mash/Musical Monday #11
All sorts of stuff to talk about. But first, many thanks to Leesa for allowing me to use a couple of her photographs in my header over the next month. That's hers up above!
Be sure to check out the post below for the answers to the "25 Questions" post. Lots of eye-opening answers!
Check the top of the sidebar to find links regarding the HNT plans for December.
Well, two of the three Montana football teams playing in the playoffs won on Saturday. The Carroll College Fighting Saints lost 14-7 against the Cougars of St. Xavier to end Carroll's domination of the NAIA football ranks. Four national titles over four years. A run that will probably never be duplicated. The Montana Grizzlies beat up McNeese State, 31-6. Sorry Tommy--your team never had a chance! Oh, yeah. The MSU Bobcats beat Furman, 31-13 in a shocker. Overall, a fine day for football in Montana!
I came down with something on Saturday and ended up pukey. Missed the wedding of two of my best friends that night. Chris & Leanne, if you're reading this, I wish you the very best! And see you Tuesday!
Spent alot of time sitting at home watching football and movies. I saw "White Christmas" this morning. No one had legs like Vera-Ellen! If you don't know who she was, I urge you to check imdb.com and see what else she's been in!
HEADS UP!--the next showing of the "Grinch" on TV will be Dec. 6th, 7:30PM, on the Cartoon Network!
I haven't been to McDonald's yet to grab a McRib. I know. I suck.
Have you seen all the cool things that Crayola comes out with now? When I was a kid, you knew you'd been a good little boy or girl if you got the 64-color box of crayons. The 128-box was unknown. And now there's markers and paints and colorless spray guns that turn color but don't hurt the carpet. And now they say in their ads that you can find this stuff in the Crayola aisle at your store. There's an entire Crayola aisle??
As I'm getting into the Christmas spirit, I don't want to burn you out on Christmas music. But I ran across this after a long time of not hearing it, and thought it was appropriate. "Always Look At the Bright Side of Life", by Monty Python. Truly, a wonderful thought!
Be sure to check out the post below for the answers to the "25 Questions" post. Lots of eye-opening answers!
Check the top of the sidebar to find links regarding the HNT plans for December.
Well, two of the three Montana football teams playing in the playoffs won on Saturday. The Carroll College Fighting Saints lost 14-7 against the Cougars of St. Xavier to end Carroll's domination of the NAIA football ranks. Four national titles over four years. A run that will probably never be duplicated. The Montana Grizzlies beat up McNeese State, 31-6. Sorry Tommy--your team never had a chance! Oh, yeah. The MSU Bobcats beat Furman, 31-13 in a shocker. Overall, a fine day for football in Montana!
I came down with something on Saturday and ended up pukey. Missed the wedding of two of my best friends that night. Chris & Leanne, if you're reading this, I wish you the very best! And see you Tuesday!
Spent alot of time sitting at home watching football and movies. I saw "White Christmas" this morning. No one had legs like Vera-Ellen! If you don't know who she was, I urge you to check imdb.com and see what else she's been in!
HEADS UP!--the next showing of the "Grinch" on TV will be Dec. 6th, 7:30PM, on the Cartoon Network!
I haven't been to McDonald's yet to grab a McRib. I know. I suck.
Have you seen all the cool things that Crayola comes out with now? When I was a kid, you knew you'd been a good little boy or girl if you got the 64-color box of crayons. The 128-box was unknown. And now there's markers and paints and colorless spray guns that turn color but don't hurt the carpet. And now they say in their ads that you can find this stuff in the Crayola aisle at your store. There's an entire Crayola aisle??
As I'm getting into the Christmas spirit, I don't want to burn you out on Christmas music. But I ran across this after a long time of not hearing it, and thought it was appropriate. "Always Look At the Bright Side of Life", by Monty Python. Truly, a wonderful thought!
Sunday, November 26, 2006
25 Questions Answered (LONG POST!)
Well, I actually got more than 25, and some asked more than one question, but I can handle that! A couple of you went for the jugular this time, and I actually had to do some thinking! And, as usual, I rarely answer with a short answer... Without further ado, here's my answers!
#1 - Px - I have 2 questions...#1 Can you get me a job? and #2 Being from the UK, is there any place over here that you'd like to visit/see? No, I can't get you a job. If I could, I'd do it for myself first! I would love to come to Ireland--there's some ancestry there that I'd like to explore. Scotland would be a nice place to check out too, especially for the golf. No real desire to go to England, though I'm sure I'd have a good time.
#2 - s - What's the longest you ever went w/o sex? I'll assume you mean with another person... Can't really give an answer here, as it's a work in progress. I can say that it's easily spanned more than one presidency.
#3 - Queen of Ass - What brings you peace? Truthfully, when everything goes the way it should go. The way I envisioned it. When everyone just does what they're supposed to do, at the time they're supposed to do it. When it goes that way, I'm at my most peaceful. If you're asking what I do when all around me is crumbling, then it's listening to classical music. If you're asking if I've found peace, then I'd say yes. I've made mistakes in the past, and I've been severely screwed over in the past. I've learned to let them go--there's no way you can change what's been done. You can learn from them, but I tend not to dwell on the past. What's happened (or not happened) has happened. No sense in spending time trying to erase it. That brings me a general sense of peace.
#4 – geekgirl - Have you ever played a valve trombone? If so, how does it compare to a slide trombone? Yes, I have. Valve trombones tend to have a smaller bore (skinnier) than the horns I usually play, so I generally don't like the tone quality I'm hearing. They're sort of a hybrid instrument that really haven't gained accecptance in many circles. But they're fun to play!
#5 - Chelle - What qualities do do you look for in a woman? Or in a friend in general? Openess, honesty, humor, low-maintenance. I'm at the point in my life where I'm not interested in playing games anymore. If you have a problem with me, let me know. I no longer have an interest in trying to interpret "signals". Secondary qualities--someone who isn't having a life-long pity party; someone who can laugh at their own mistakes and follies; someone who will stand up for their beliefs and passions. Oh, if they're smokin' hawt, that's a plus!
#6 - Snow White - When ARE you going to visit Texas? I want to come to Texas so bad you can't believe it. My first bloggerfriends (pre-HNT) live in Texas. And now there's so many more there! When the time comes, I'll be sure to let everyone know! Party's at Andi's, btw!
#7 - Naughty Nikki - Have you ever been to Newfoundland? Nope. I've never had the pleasure. I love what I've seen in pictures, though. What part do you live in?
#8 - Tara Tainton - I want to know... the reason(s) why you REALLY chose to begin blogging as well as why you're still driven to blog and share select thoughts of yours so publicly now. I started because Moose said she was starting one. I'd seen a few, and figured it was time for me to start. I started thinking I was going to use it as a journal, but that didn't happen. As far as why I continue--I like the contact I get with others. While I'm not a comment whore, I do like visitors. And I've never been one to pass up an opportunity to pontificate, so I'm happy to post a few times a week. And others might not agree, but I'm not just HNT 24/7!
#9 – Art - You mention you would like to not live paycheck to paycheck and you also mention that at some point you'd like to have someone special to come home to soooooooo....now you have found a magical symphony which if played you can have either one 'money' Or 'love' which will it be and why? Hate to be materialistic, but at this point, I'd take the money. Unless the love comes with alot of money attached!
#10 - Exposed - I would like to know how you feel about various ethical debates. so take your pick of a few...and please answer at least a few..
Abortion--I think that it's sad that it ever comes down to this sort of thing, but ultimately, I think I'd consider myself pro-choice. I don't believe any one of us can tell another what's best for them. Disagreement is fine, but forcing an opposing view because it's "right" is the pure hutzpah.
Gay rights--It's sad that minorities (gays, women, ethnic groups) need special "rights". Theoretically, "all men are created equal", so special rules shouldn't be needed. So in that sense, I'm against gay rights. Not because they shouldn't have them, but theoretically, because they already do have them. To better answer it--do I have a problem with gays? No.
Affirmative action--Living in an overwhelmingly white state, I've never really met up with affirmative action, to my knowledge. I don't really have an opinion.
Euthanasia--I believe that the right to die is a personal thing. If it's documented that I would rather die than live in a vegetative state, then someone shouldn't get in trouble for helping that along. But it would have to be based on medical conditions. Not because I had a bad week at work...
Cloning/genetic manipulation--I'm in favor of it, in the limited scope of curing horrid diseases. I don't want to see a human cloned (or animals, even) or fetuses grown only for stem cells.
Gun rights--See the above comments regarding gay rights... Just kidding. Guns don't kill people, people kill people. And deer, and ducks, and bears and all sorts of things. I'm opposed to gun control legislation in general, though I don't know why a normal person would need an AK-47. But again, it's a government control issue. No, I don't own a gun.
Death penalty--I'm in favor of it, but I think that the process is convoluted. Years and years of appeals diminish the effect. I'm comfortable with the sorts of crimes that have a death penalty, but think they need to be applied uniformly, and then, by law, meted out within a year.
Smoking bans--I find it unconscionable that if I were to own a bar for the past 20 years, the government can then tell me that my patrons can't smoke in there. If someone doesn't like the smoke, they don't have to patronize me. That's they way I run my business. Smokers have been punished for years with higher prices, higher taxes, forced outdoors to smoke and meant to feel like second class citizens. No, I don't smoke.
Minimum drinking age--I grew up when it was 18. Everyone was afraid that high school seniors would be having keggars in the parking lot between classes. Didn't happen. Then it was raised to 19. Disagreed with it, but understood the concept. Kept most high schoolers away from legal drinking, but college kids could. Then the federal government told the states to raise it to 21, or risk losing federal highway funds. Can you say blackmail? Has it kept alcohol out of the hands of high schoolers? I think the whole binge drinking that has plagued many college students would disappear if they were of legal age.
Hope this is what you wanted to see, Exposed!
#11 - Robyn - You have a few things you've been telling me you'd tell me... and yet to tell me yet... so my question is.... when ya gonna tell me? In due time!
#12 - Tish - If you could meet one blogger that you haven't already met, who would it be? I have thought about this question more than any of the others. There's so many that I want to meet, and probably will in the future. And I don't want to name one of them, and piss the others off. So... of the ones that I really want to meet, but don't see a convenient opportunity to do so, I'd have to choose Spinning Girl. Then again, I hope I'm wrong!
#13 - Jen - What's your least favorite thing about Helena? (I lived there until about three weeks ago and man could I give you a long list...) The lack of opportunities to hear live music. When I was in high school, there were at least a half dozen places to go on the weekend to dance, drink beer, and have a good time. More importantly, places for local bands to go play. Currently, there's not much, and high school kids can't get into them. It was a major influence to my musical career back then. Bands around here today can't play more than an hour of music without running out of material. Because they don't need to. There's no place for them to play.
#14 - Susie - What is your favorite late night snack? I don't really have a favorite. I'll eat whatever might be around. Chips or cookies, I guess...
#15 - Binsk - Do you like to watch? Yes I do. Not just in the was she was sort of leaning me towards, but I also love watching people in general. Not that I spend time in the airport watching others, but I'm fascinated by watching what people do when they don't think about the fact that people are all around. The gentle touches of others, the unabashed scratching of an itch, the pocketing of something insignificant, the people who talk to themselves (or the voice in their head).
#16 - Spinning Girl - What do you most despise? Ooh--tough word. There are two individuals in my life that I'll despise till the day I die, but I don't waste time thinking about them. Anymore. I guess, in general, I despise ignorance and ignorant people.
#17 - MG - What type of behavior would cause you to discontinue an otherwise good relationship? (friend/lover/family member) I don't think I could discontinue any relationship with a family member. Anyone else...maybe if they started up with some new sort of harmful behavior--heavy drug use, alcoholic tendencies, illegal activities. Mind you, if they do things like that at the time that I meet them and decide to be friends, that's one thing. Those that would take it up afterwards would be a different story. But it would only be after trying to talk them out of it. I can't imagine dumping somebody cold turkey.
#18 - Stealthbombshell - Have you ever done something scary like lose your mouthpiece at the last minute before a show? I've never done that. Probably the most scary would be the time that our computers at work froze. The short story is that I replaced an entire store inventory (at least 500MB file) with a preference file (4kb). My defense is that I was talked through it that way. NOT MY FAULT! I also just erased a 60GB drive belonging to my boss last week. Again, because of faulty directions left to me!
#19 - THIS GUY - When you color, cause I know you (like me) still do, do you try and stay inside the lines or are you a free spirit and make your own boundaries? Another one of these question within a question questions? When coloring, I definitely stay within the lines. In my "real life", I tend to stay close to the lines, but often straying outside. And usually not caring about that. Unless I'm fined over $1000 for it...
#20 - Melon - When you take a shower, do you clean the lint out of your belly button? My belly button is like a cavernous hole. Lint is the least of my concerns when cleaning things out!
#21 - Melon - What is the most interesting story behind a scar you have? Not so much interesting as it is stupid. A self-inflicted knife wound from 7th grade homeroom. I had brought a serrated-edged knife to school (back in the days that you could bring a knife to school) to cut through some styrofoam for a class project. As I was talking with classmates, I was unaware that I was rocking the knife back and forth across the top of my knee. Not until a girl looked down and saw blood on my shoes. I had sliced through my corduroys, and about a half inch through my leg. I had no idea. I still have a distinct one and a half inch scar there.
#22 - THIS GUY - When you get up, which foot hits the floor first in the morning? Usually roll over to my left, and my left foot hits first.
#23 - Regal - What is your deepest darkest secret and if you can't share entirely can you find a way in words to express something about it? Is it about a lost love? Is it about something you did one time? Well, I can't tell it! Let's just say it involved poor judgment on my part, could have (should have?) been arrested for it, and had a bad influence on me for quite a few years.
#24 - Phain - If you could live anywhere other than MT - where would you live? I was pleasantly surprised by Nashville. With the amount of music going on there, I'd be happy. But more logical would be anywhere in the Pacific Northwest. I think I could live in the Florida Keys, too.
#25 - Sheets - Where do you see the HNT experience leading after it's second year? I didn't see it going anywhere beyond its first 3 weeks! There is a constant turnover in participants for whatever reason. There are new people jumping in every week. It's already lasted longer than many other "fads" out there. I have noticed that there's a pendulum effect with HNT. It started very safe, and then there was a time when some considered it softcore porn, and now I see it swinging back towards the safe side. Alot of that might be because of the anonymous site. The next step might be marketing, but I've avoided that. I think that making money would put a different spin to HNT. Then again, t-shirts, cups and calendars could be fun...
#26 - Fairytales - CAN I WEAR THE OS SHIRT IN NYC? I tried to get it to you! Let us blame the USPS... I'll get you back in the loop!
#27 - AnnieAngel - Do you love me for my body or my brain??? No question that the body is lovable! Still trying to figure out your mind. You're a bit of an enigma!
#28 - Hollz - Boxers or briefs??? Sorry--briefs. White. Cheap and functional is all I need, thank you!
#29 - Susie - What has been the most important part of HNT, and how has it affected your life? I think the most important has been that individuals have found a place where they can take a chance to try things they'd never thought possible. A very real community has developed. And it's more than just showing more skin than they ever have thought possible. The positive atmosphere has enabled people to see that maybe they ARE more beautiful/talented/worthwhile than they gave themselves credit for. How has HNT affected me? I've made more real friends than I have in years. People who are genuinely interested in me, and people who are genuinely interesting to me. And I won't deny it--I like the notoriety that has been attached to the name Os. Who'da thunk it??
#1 - Px - I have 2 questions...#1 Can you get me a job? and #2 Being from the UK, is there any place over here that you'd like to visit/see? No, I can't get you a job. If I could, I'd do it for myself first! I would love to come to Ireland--there's some ancestry there that I'd like to explore. Scotland would be a nice place to check out too, especially for the golf. No real desire to go to England, though I'm sure I'd have a good time.
#2 - s - What's the longest you ever went w/o sex? I'll assume you mean with another person... Can't really give an answer here, as it's a work in progress. I can say that it's easily spanned more than one presidency.
#3 - Queen of Ass - What brings you peace? Truthfully, when everything goes the way it should go. The way I envisioned it. When everyone just does what they're supposed to do, at the time they're supposed to do it. When it goes that way, I'm at my most peaceful. If you're asking what I do when all around me is crumbling, then it's listening to classical music. If you're asking if I've found peace, then I'd say yes. I've made mistakes in the past, and I've been severely screwed over in the past. I've learned to let them go--there's no way you can change what's been done. You can learn from them, but I tend not to dwell on the past. What's happened (or not happened) has happened. No sense in spending time trying to erase it. That brings me a general sense of peace.
#4 – geekgirl - Have you ever played a valve trombone? If so, how does it compare to a slide trombone? Yes, I have. Valve trombones tend to have a smaller bore (skinnier) than the horns I usually play, so I generally don't like the tone quality I'm hearing. They're sort of a hybrid instrument that really haven't gained accecptance in many circles. But they're fun to play!
#5 - Chelle - What qualities do do you look for in a woman? Or in a friend in general? Openess, honesty, humor, low-maintenance. I'm at the point in my life where I'm not interested in playing games anymore. If you have a problem with me, let me know. I no longer have an interest in trying to interpret "signals". Secondary qualities--someone who isn't having a life-long pity party; someone who can laugh at their own mistakes and follies; someone who will stand up for their beliefs and passions. Oh, if they're smokin' hawt, that's a plus!
#6 - Snow White - When ARE you going to visit Texas? I want to come to Texas so bad you can't believe it. My first bloggerfriends (pre-HNT) live in Texas. And now there's so many more there! When the time comes, I'll be sure to let everyone know! Party's at Andi's, btw!
#7 - Naughty Nikki - Have you ever been to Newfoundland? Nope. I've never had the pleasure. I love what I've seen in pictures, though. What part do you live in?
#8 - Tara Tainton - I want to know... the reason(s) why you REALLY chose to begin blogging as well as why you're still driven to blog and share select thoughts of yours so publicly now. I started because Moose said she was starting one. I'd seen a few, and figured it was time for me to start. I started thinking I was going to use it as a journal, but that didn't happen. As far as why I continue--I like the contact I get with others. While I'm not a comment whore, I do like visitors. And I've never been one to pass up an opportunity to pontificate, so I'm happy to post a few times a week. And others might not agree, but I'm not just HNT 24/7!
#9 – Art - You mention you would like to not live paycheck to paycheck and you also mention that at some point you'd like to have someone special to come home to soooooooo....now you have found a magical symphony which if played you can have either one 'money' Or 'love' which will it be and why? Hate to be materialistic, but at this point, I'd take the money. Unless the love comes with alot of money attached!
#10 - Exposed - I would like to know how you feel about various ethical debates. so take your pick of a few...and please answer at least a few..
- abortion
gay rights
affirmative action
euthanasia
cloning and or genetic manipulation
gun rights
death penalty
any others that may come to mind
Abortion--I think that it's sad that it ever comes down to this sort of thing, but ultimately, I think I'd consider myself pro-choice. I don't believe any one of us can tell another what's best for them. Disagreement is fine, but forcing an opposing view because it's "right" is the pure hutzpah.
Gay rights--It's sad that minorities (gays, women, ethnic groups) need special "rights". Theoretically, "all men are created equal", so special rules shouldn't be needed. So in that sense, I'm against gay rights. Not because they shouldn't have them, but theoretically, because they already do have them. To better answer it--do I have a problem with gays? No.
Affirmative action--Living in an overwhelmingly white state, I've never really met up with affirmative action, to my knowledge. I don't really have an opinion.
Euthanasia--I believe that the right to die is a personal thing. If it's documented that I would rather die than live in a vegetative state, then someone shouldn't get in trouble for helping that along. But it would have to be based on medical conditions. Not because I had a bad week at work...
Cloning/genetic manipulation--I'm in favor of it, in the limited scope of curing horrid diseases. I don't want to see a human cloned (or animals, even) or fetuses grown only for stem cells.
Gun rights--See the above comments regarding gay rights... Just kidding. Guns don't kill people, people kill people. And deer, and ducks, and bears and all sorts of things. I'm opposed to gun control legislation in general, though I don't know why a normal person would need an AK-47. But again, it's a government control issue. No, I don't own a gun.
Death penalty--I'm in favor of it, but I think that the process is convoluted. Years and years of appeals diminish the effect. I'm comfortable with the sorts of crimes that have a death penalty, but think they need to be applied uniformly, and then, by law, meted out within a year.
Smoking bans--I find it unconscionable that if I were to own a bar for the past 20 years, the government can then tell me that my patrons can't smoke in there. If someone doesn't like the smoke, they don't have to patronize me. That's they way I run my business. Smokers have been punished for years with higher prices, higher taxes, forced outdoors to smoke and meant to feel like second class citizens. No, I don't smoke.
Minimum drinking age--I grew up when it was 18. Everyone was afraid that high school seniors would be having keggars in the parking lot between classes. Didn't happen. Then it was raised to 19. Disagreed with it, but understood the concept. Kept most high schoolers away from legal drinking, but college kids could. Then the federal government told the states to raise it to 21, or risk losing federal highway funds. Can you say blackmail? Has it kept alcohol out of the hands of high schoolers? I think the whole binge drinking that has plagued many college students would disappear if they were of legal age.
Hope this is what you wanted to see, Exposed!
#11 - Robyn - You have a few things you've been telling me you'd tell me... and yet to tell me yet... so my question is.... when ya gonna tell me? In due time!
#12 - Tish - If you could meet one blogger that you haven't already met, who would it be? I have thought about this question more than any of the others. There's so many that I want to meet, and probably will in the future. And I don't want to name one of them, and piss the others off. So... of the ones that I really want to meet, but don't see a convenient opportunity to do so, I'd have to choose Spinning Girl. Then again, I hope I'm wrong!
#13 - Jen - What's your least favorite thing about Helena? (I lived there until about three weeks ago and man could I give you a long list...) The lack of opportunities to hear live music. When I was in high school, there were at least a half dozen places to go on the weekend to dance, drink beer, and have a good time. More importantly, places for local bands to go play. Currently, there's not much, and high school kids can't get into them. It was a major influence to my musical career back then. Bands around here today can't play more than an hour of music without running out of material. Because they don't need to. There's no place for them to play.
#14 - Susie - What is your favorite late night snack? I don't really have a favorite. I'll eat whatever might be around. Chips or cookies, I guess...
#15 - Binsk - Do you like to watch? Yes I do. Not just in the was she was sort of leaning me towards, but I also love watching people in general. Not that I spend time in the airport watching others, but I'm fascinated by watching what people do when they don't think about the fact that people are all around. The gentle touches of others, the unabashed scratching of an itch, the pocketing of something insignificant, the people who talk to themselves (or the voice in their head).
#16 - Spinning Girl - What do you most despise? Ooh--tough word. There are two individuals in my life that I'll despise till the day I die, but I don't waste time thinking about them. Anymore. I guess, in general, I despise ignorance and ignorant people.
#17 - MG - What type of behavior would cause you to discontinue an otherwise good relationship? (friend/lover/family member) I don't think I could discontinue any relationship with a family member. Anyone else...maybe if they started up with some new sort of harmful behavior--heavy drug use, alcoholic tendencies, illegal activities. Mind you, if they do things like that at the time that I meet them and decide to be friends, that's one thing. Those that would take it up afterwards would be a different story. But it would only be after trying to talk them out of it. I can't imagine dumping somebody cold turkey.
#18 - Stealthbombshell - Have you ever done something scary like lose your mouthpiece at the last minute before a show? I've never done that. Probably the most scary would be the time that our computers at work froze. The short story is that I replaced an entire store inventory (at least 500MB file) with a preference file (4kb). My defense is that I was talked through it that way. NOT MY FAULT! I also just erased a 60GB drive belonging to my boss last week. Again, because of faulty directions left to me!
#19 - THIS GUY - When you color, cause I know you (like me) still do, do you try and stay inside the lines or are you a free spirit and make your own boundaries? Another one of these question within a question questions? When coloring, I definitely stay within the lines. In my "real life", I tend to stay close to the lines, but often straying outside. And usually not caring about that. Unless I'm fined over $1000 for it...
#20 - Melon - When you take a shower, do you clean the lint out of your belly button? My belly button is like a cavernous hole. Lint is the least of my concerns when cleaning things out!
#21 - Melon - What is the most interesting story behind a scar you have? Not so much interesting as it is stupid. A self-inflicted knife wound from 7th grade homeroom. I had brought a serrated-edged knife to school (back in the days that you could bring a knife to school) to cut through some styrofoam for a class project. As I was talking with classmates, I was unaware that I was rocking the knife back and forth across the top of my knee. Not until a girl looked down and saw blood on my shoes. I had sliced through my corduroys, and about a half inch through my leg. I had no idea. I still have a distinct one and a half inch scar there.
#22 - THIS GUY - When you get up, which foot hits the floor first in the morning? Usually roll over to my left, and my left foot hits first.
#23 - Regal - What is your deepest darkest secret and if you can't share entirely can you find a way in words to express something about it? Is it about a lost love? Is it about something you did one time? Well, I can't tell it! Let's just say it involved poor judgment on my part, could have (should have?) been arrested for it, and had a bad influence on me for quite a few years.
#24 - Phain - If you could live anywhere other than MT - where would you live? I was pleasantly surprised by Nashville. With the amount of music going on there, I'd be happy. But more logical would be anywhere in the Pacific Northwest. I think I could live in the Florida Keys, too.
#25 - Sheets - Where do you see the HNT experience leading after it's second year? I didn't see it going anywhere beyond its first 3 weeks! There is a constant turnover in participants for whatever reason. There are new people jumping in every week. It's already lasted longer than many other "fads" out there. I have noticed that there's a pendulum effect with HNT. It started very safe, and then there was a time when some considered it softcore porn, and now I see it swinging back towards the safe side. Alot of that might be because of the anonymous site. The next step might be marketing, but I've avoided that. I think that making money would put a different spin to HNT. Then again, t-shirts, cups and calendars could be fun...
#26 - Fairytales - CAN I WEAR THE OS SHIRT IN NYC? I tried to get it to you! Let us blame the USPS... I'll get you back in the loop!
#27 - AnnieAngel - Do you love me for my body or my brain??? No question that the body is lovable! Still trying to figure out your mind. You're a bit of an enigma!
#28 - Hollz - Boxers or briefs??? Sorry--briefs. White. Cheap and functional is all I need, thank you!
#29 - Susie - What has been the most important part of HNT, and how has it affected your life? I think the most important has been that individuals have found a place where they can take a chance to try things they'd never thought possible. A very real community has developed. And it's more than just showing more skin than they ever have thought possible. The positive atmosphere has enabled people to see that maybe they ARE more beautiful/talented/worthwhile than they gave themselves credit for. How has HNT affected me? I've made more real friends than I have in years. People who are genuinely interested in me, and people who are genuinely interesting to me. And I won't deny it--I like the notoriety that has been attached to the name Os. Who'da thunk it??
Friday, November 24, 2006
Da Count #11
Another easy one this week. It's all about family. Thanksgiving dinner was hosted by my baby sister this year, and it grew to 22 people, with our family and parts of her husband's family. Rachel stopped by after gathering with her own family. She brought a maple pecan pumpkin pie to the festivities (many thanks, dear!). While she was not part of the 22, she was welcome to stay, but the turkey and wine was taking effect, so she ducked out. She was invited to Christmas dinner before she left, though. Hope she invites me, because I don't know any of the details...
I have often mentioned my family here over the past months. We don't seem to have the bickering and fights that many seem to have. We get along as well as any group of people that you can imagine. And we're all "there" whenever we need to be. And that's what counts.
If you want to read more about "Da Count", click on the button below...
I have often mentioned my family here over the past months. We don't seem to have the bickering and fights that many seem to have. We get along as well as any group of people that you can imagine. And we're all "there" whenever we need to be. And that's what counts.
If you want to read more about "Da Count", click on the button below...
Thursday, November 23, 2006
Butterball Edition HNT
First off--my apologies to anyone who knows me in real life. It ain't gonna be pretty!
I love this time of year, despite my incessant proclamations to the contrary. I've made it known that I listen to Christmas music exclusively from the 1st of Dec. through Christmas Day. Though the countless hours on the road to Nashville and back last year almost took my sanity. Almost tossed my iPod out the window. Yes, there IS such a thing as too much Bing Crosby! But I digresss...
I love that the symphony will be keeping me busy (no!--I didn't really just write that!). I love that In Cahoots will be playing some holiday gigs. I love the football playoffs. Etc., etc....
All of this starts with Thanksgiving dinner. This year, S3, my baby sister, volunteered to host the dinner. Without going into great detail about guests, there's going to be 22 of us! I can only hope that there's cold beer, and alot of it (oh, who am I kidding? Of course there will be!). And hopefully some good photo opportunities! I'll do my best. Phain (she's posted her HNT, btw) posted about being thankful for her family, even if it sounded sorta sappy. I have to admit--I'm thankful for the same thing. It's always been a close family, and these times are the best!
So there you have it. I needed to find something turkey-ish for HNT. I knew I wasn't going to have a nekkid turkey around, but then I remembered a picture I took about a year ago. Right after I got my new camera. A series of pictures reflected through the bell of Amy (that's my smaller trombone, for the newbies--yeah, I name my horns). It was pointed out to me that I used this picture in July, but it makes more sense to use it now. Happy Thanksgiving to all of you. Even my heathen Canadian friends who celebrate early! ;-) I present to you, my Butterball. Sorry--no giblets showing!
This week's Mystery Guest will remain a mystery. She won't be revealing herself. It's convenient, though, that she was chosen for Thanksgiving week. I told her that I'd make juvenile references to turkey breasts, etc., but I'll be damned if I can think of one now! She's a fun-loving, adventuresome lady. Who enjoys hot tubs with a glass of wine by her side. I will tell you that she a redhead. Which should conjure up all sorts of behavioral problems (my apologies to any other redheads out there...). Oh--she also snorts when she laughs! If you think you might know who this is, feel free to stop by her site. She may or may not tell you!
"...the Other HNT" is a little sparse due to the holiday, but still is NSFW. Or NS for the dinner table! Be sure to stop by!
Stop by the OsShirt site. Another couple of visits have been posted.
There's going to be some things happening with HNT in the month of December. Check out the top of my sidebar. There's links to what's going to happen each week. Don't be left out!!!
Does anyone else find it appalling that Walgreen's and K-Mart are advertising that they'll be open on Thanksgiving Day until late? Or that most stores will have specials when they open at 5:00 AM??? Commercialism has totally taken over.
Though Staples is selling 200GB internal hard drives for only $19.98, after rebates. Friday only, 6-10AM. I'll be there!
I love this time of year, despite my incessant proclamations to the contrary. I've made it known that I listen to Christmas music exclusively from the 1st of Dec. through Christmas Day. Though the countless hours on the road to Nashville and back last year almost took my sanity. Almost tossed my iPod out the window. Yes, there IS such a thing as too much Bing Crosby! But I digresss...
I love that the symphony will be keeping me busy (no!--I didn't really just write that!). I love that In Cahoots will be playing some holiday gigs. I love the football playoffs. Etc., etc....
All of this starts with Thanksgiving dinner. This year, S3, my baby sister, volunteered to host the dinner. Without going into great detail about guests, there's going to be 22 of us! I can only hope that there's cold beer, and alot of it (oh, who am I kidding? Of course there will be!). And hopefully some good photo opportunities! I'll do my best. Phain (she's posted her HNT, btw) posted about being thankful for her family, even if it sounded sorta sappy. I have to admit--I'm thankful for the same thing. It's always been a close family, and these times are the best!
So there you have it. I needed to find something turkey-ish for HNT. I knew I wasn't going to have a nekkid turkey around, but then I remembered a picture I took about a year ago. Right after I got my new camera. A series of pictures reflected through the bell of Amy (that's my smaller trombone, for the newbies--yeah, I name my horns). It was pointed out to me that I used this picture in July, but it makes more sense to use it now. Happy Thanksgiving to all of you. Even my heathen Canadian friends who celebrate early! ;-) I present to you, my Butterball. Sorry--no giblets showing!
This week's Mystery Guest will remain a mystery. She won't be revealing herself. It's convenient, though, that she was chosen for Thanksgiving week. I told her that I'd make juvenile references to turkey breasts, etc., but I'll be damned if I can think of one now! She's a fun-loving, adventuresome lady. Who enjoys hot tubs with a glass of wine by her side. I will tell you that she a redhead. Which should conjure up all sorts of behavioral problems (my apologies to any other redheads out there...). Oh--she also snorts when she laughs! If you think you might know who this is, feel free to stop by her site. She may or may not tell you!"...the Other HNT" is a little sparse due to the holiday, but still is NSFW. Or NS for the dinner table! Be sure to stop by!
Stop by the OsShirt site. Another couple of visits have been posted.
There's going to be some things happening with HNT in the month of December. Check out the top of my sidebar. There's links to what's going to happen each week. Don't be left out!!!
Does anyone else find it appalling that Walgreen's and K-Mart are advertising that they'll be open on Thanksgiving Day until late? Or that most stores will have specials when they open at 5:00 AM??? Commercialism has totally taken over.
Though Staples is selling 200GB internal hard drives for only $19.98, after rebates. Friday only, 6-10AM. I'll be there!
Wednesday, November 22, 2006
Dec. 14th - Christmas Tree HNT
(hey--that rhymes!)
Any of you who were around at this time last year may remember that I was in a deep funk. Only the trip to Nashville kept me sane! This year, things are different. Mostly in part because of a number of you that I chat with regularly. I am in a much more happy place inside my mind!
So much so, that I'm doing something I haven't done in 10 years. I'm putting up a Christmas tree! The living room has been rearranged to accommodate that (how can you end up with less space and more furniture than when you started??). And so, in my non-drug-induced happiness, I'm wanting to see your Christmas tree. And while you're at it, I want to see you half-nekkid with your Christmas tree! The young ladies below have the right idea:
Do you HAVE to do this? Of course not! No tree this year? Then give us an alternate. Celebrate something other than Christmas? Your alternate will work as well! Don't celebrate at all? Just be half-nekkid!
But I really want to see the Christmas trees..
So much so, that I'm doing something I haven't done in 10 years. I'm putting up a Christmas tree! The living room has been rearranged to accommodate that (how can you end up with less space and more furniture than when you started??). And so, in my non-drug-induced happiness, I'm wanting to see your Christmas tree. And while you're at it, I want to see you half-nekkid with your Christmas tree! The young ladies below have the right idea:
Do you HAVE to do this? Of course not! No tree this year? Then give us an alternate. Celebrate something other than Christmas? Your alternate will work as well! Don't celebrate at all? Just be half-nekkid!
But I really want to see the Christmas trees..
Dec. 21st - Three Christmas Wishes
This went over so well last year, that I figured we should do it again! Below are the instructions from last year:
To avoid the hassle of having to take HNT pics with holiday plans, families getting together, and all the other things getting in the way, we will suspend HNT this week. INSTEAD, in the spirit of Christmas, we'll do this--pick three HNT/blogger participants, but only three. And then tell the world what you'd get them for Christmas, if you had the means to do so. To make this work, don't pick three people that you might normally send a card or a gift to anyway. Pick three people that you may have just met, or have been following for awhile, or found through other blogs.
This can be serious, humorous, from the heart, or from the mind. Hopefully this will prevent some sort of "gift guilt reciprocation". One last thing--when you post a comment like you would for HNT, just list your three people. That way someone who might not expect something from you will know to take a look.
Last year, there was some confusion, so...
To avoid the hassle of having to take HNT pics with holiday plans, families getting together, and all the other things getting in the way, we will suspend HNT this week. INSTEAD, in the spirit of Christmas, we'll do this--pick three HNT/blogger participants, but only three. And then tell the world what you'd get them for Christmas, if you had the means to do so. To make this work, don't pick three people that you might normally send a card or a gift to anyway. Pick three people that you may have just met, or have been following for awhile, or found through other blogs.
This can be serious, humorous, from the heart, or from the mind. Hopefully this will prevent some sort of "gift guilt reciprocation". One last thing--when you post a comment like you would for HNT, just list your three people. That way someone who might not expect something from you will know to take a look.
Last year, there was some confusion, so...
- I apparently have confused people. This is how it will work:
- YOU will pick 3 fellow HNT/bloggers.
- YOU will choose ones that you aren't necessarily close to, since you'll probably be doing separate Christmas wishes for them anyway. So Phain won't pick Fame, Betcha won't pick No One, MG won't pick TG, etc....
- YOU will tell us what you're going to get them for Christmas, if you had the means to do so.
- YOU will do all of this on YOUR site.
- YOU will leave a comment here to let us know that you've put up your list, and to whom you're gifting.
- YOU will comment to, or email, the recipients to let them know you've listed them, so they can come to your site and see what they'll get.
- (optional) - YOU will post a picture of each gift, if that's possible.
- WE will go to your site and see how generous you are to total strangers.
Dec. 28th - Your Own Favorite HNT of 2006
For the last HNT of the year, it's time to go back to YOUR OWN archives and choose YOUR favorite HNT of 2006. This is the one that YOU think is best. Post the picture again, and let us know why it's your favorite. Link back to the original, if you want. Even if you've only done a few HNTs, we want to join in too!
NOTE: This is NOT a request for the best HNT of all HNTdom. We all have our favorites from other people. I'm not interested in that--this isn't a contest! Never has been! This is YOUR picture, not someone else's!
NOTE: This is NOT a request for the best HNT of all HNTdom. We all have our favorites from other people. I'm not interested in that--this isn't a contest! Never has been! This is YOUR picture, not someone else's!
Monday, November 20, 2006
Miscellaneous Mish-Mash/Musical Monday#10
The three football teams I was interested in all won this weekend! Friday night, the Helena Capital Bruins (my old HS) beat the Billings West Golden Bears for the state AA Football Championship. Quite handily, at that!
The Carroll College Fighting Saints won their first-round playoff game against Montana-Northern. They will host St. Xavier this coming Saturday.
The UofM Grizzlies beat cross-state rival MSU Bobcats in a defensive battle. That put the Grizzlies at 10-1, and are seeded #2 in the playoffs. In an interesting twist--the Cats apparently impressed enough people that they will also be in the playoffs with a 7-4 record. And hosting a first round game! So in my best Montana neighborly fashion--congrats to the Cats!
I might have mentioned that there was a bet involved with the Cat/Griz game, which I obviously won. Be sure to check back for the payment of that bet!
I had the pleasure of a 2 and a half hour chat with a new friend last night. Hope we do that again real soon!
Watched the Will Farrell movie "Elf" this weekend. I generally dislike Will Farrell in his slapstick mode. This was a nice surprise, though. I might have even let a tear roll down at the end when everyone sings. Sometimes I'm such a girl....
I got all my 25 Questions. Thank you! I'll post the answers soon.
Jessica Simpson doesn't really do a thing for me, though she can be spectacularly attractive. I didn't bother to watch "The Dukes of Hazzard". But her commercial for DishTV or whatever it is she's trying to sell where she's in her Daisy Duke shorts and says "I totally don't know what that means, but I want it."--I could watch her say that line all day long.
For Musical Monday, I offer the fight song for UofM, "Up With Montana".
GO GRIZ!
The Carroll College Fighting Saints won their first-round playoff game against Montana-Northern. They will host St. Xavier this coming Saturday.
The UofM Grizzlies beat cross-state rival MSU Bobcats in a defensive battle. That put the Grizzlies at 10-1, and are seeded #2 in the playoffs. In an interesting twist--the Cats apparently impressed enough people that they will also be in the playoffs with a 7-4 record. And hosting a first round game! So in my best Montana neighborly fashion--congrats to the Cats!
I might have mentioned that there was a bet involved with the Cat/Griz game, which I obviously won. Be sure to check back for the payment of that bet!
I had the pleasure of a 2 and a half hour chat with a new friend last night. Hope we do that again real soon!
Watched the Will Farrell movie "Elf" this weekend. I generally dislike Will Farrell in his slapstick mode. This was a nice surprise, though. I might have even let a tear roll down at the end when everyone sings. Sometimes I'm such a girl....
I got all my 25 Questions. Thank you! I'll post the answers soon.
Jessica Simpson doesn't really do a thing for me, though she can be spectacularly attractive. I didn't bother to watch "The Dukes of Hazzard". But her commercial for DishTV or whatever it is she's trying to sell where she's in her Daisy Duke shorts and says "I totally don't know what that means, but I want it."--I could watch her say that line all day long.
For Musical Monday, I offer the fight song for UofM, "Up With Montana".
GO GRIZ!
Saturday, November 18, 2006
25 Questions, ver.3.0
C'mon, people! I still need 7-8 more questions! Anyone? Bueller?
I was perusing my archives the other day, and ran across something I haven't done in about a year. I took the plunge last August and allowed my readers to ask me a question. Any question. And I'd answer it. Enough people were left out that I did it again in November. Since many of you are new here since then, it seems like it's time to do it again.
Go back and check to see what was asked before, and/or go to my 100 Things... list. If there's anything left up in the air or something that no one's asked, go for it! If you've asked a question in the past, let someone else have a turn. All questions will get a serious answer.
Lord, why do I do this to myself??
I was perusing my archives the other day, and ran across something I haven't done in about a year. I took the plunge last August and allowed my readers to ask me a question. Any question. And I'd answer it. Enough people were left out that I did it again in November. Since many of you are new here since then, it seems like it's time to do it again.
Go back and check to see what was asked before, and/or go to my 100 Things... list. If there's anything left up in the air or something that no one's asked, go for it! If you've asked a question in the past, let someone else have a turn. All questions will get a serious answer.
Lord, why do I do this to myself??
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)