Just an Ordinary Chaotic Saturday

Mar 172007
 

I’m cleaning house today. Ooh, exciting, I know. My apartment has the worst heating system. There are vents in the walls and when the heat kicks on, dust spews out of the walls and coats everything. Sometimes I picture there being a demonic creature down in the basement, spitting ash through the vents. But then that’s how my mind works. Hah!

I shoveled out my car (barely), but decided to go nowhere. I have a stack of magazines that I’m behind on reading (EW, Wired, Writer’s Digest, probably some others around here too…) and decided to sift through them for interesting tidbits and possible references for drawing. I came across this article by Stephen King called Television Impaired. I found it amusing, especially as I was flipping through the channels and finding similar things as he did.

Although, I did happily stumble upon Enemy of the State. I don’t know what it is about that movie. Any time I find it on, I must stop and watch. I do own the DVD, yet still, there I am watching it. It’s a thing. I tried to convert this movie to a file I could play on my iPod, but I never could get the audio to line up with the video. I think the Universe stepped in and said no to that one. I’d be watching it every day. :P<

My hands are bothering me today. Both of them. You all know I’ve been working on strengthening my writing hand, but then I got this idea. Contact juggling! What a way to strengthen my hand and have a little fun too, eh?

For those of you that don’t know, contact juggling is not like your standard juggling of tossing things into the air. With this style, the ball must maintain contact with you at all times. It rolls over your hands and arms. You may have seen it in the movie, Labyrinth.

I don’t have any of those fancy schmancy acrylic balls yet. I’m using some old lacrosse balls from my college days to train with. After a little research, I discovered they are about the same size and weight of the standard acrylic ones, which is cool since I’ve already got a bunch. Right now I am working on balancing the ball on each hand. I hold it in place for a while, then move my hand up and down and try to keep the ball in place. I’m not all that good at it, but I’ve only been working on it for a whopping two days. Hah! In time and with practice. I hope!

And well that’s that. I plan on staying in and watching Kim Possible and Robin Hood tonight. Plus some sketching, learning the contact juggling thing, and hopefully getting back into some serious revision work since really, it’s time! Time, indeed!

Happy St. Patrick’s Day! Drink an extra beer tonight for me since I won’t be venturing out.

Enjoy!

Feeling Kinda Off Today And Then Some

Mar 082007
 

Today I feel like something crawled up into my head and died. Now that it’s decomposing, bits and pieces are leaking out in clumps.

But last night I downloaded 30 Seconds to Mars, Beautiful Lie and am now happily listening to a hidden track of their own rendition of Bjork’s Hunter. Interesting…so hey, at least there is that.

Whew. That’s about as focused as this post is gonna get. Tired now.

Have a great day!

A Racing Mind Kinda Day: Yes, a Rambly Post

Feb 272007
 

Ever have one of those moments where your mind just won’t slow down for the rest of you to catch up? Over the course of a few minutes, here’s how it goes:

Jezzie’s wings smack against the inside of my skull. “Pay attention to me!” I nod and tell her to try to be patient. I can’t work on her story at the moment. Working. The wind blows and I wonder if I can hear the children crying. I pause and listen. Then I remind myself that I probably should not read John Saul books during lunch, especially since the children are always crying.

Sirens echo in the background and spur me out of that blip of a daydream. And I realize, I’m hungry. But I don’t know what I want. Instead I pour some Diet Pepsi, wishing I had ice, and wonder how quickly this week will pass so I can be watching the next Heroes episode. Really, a Heroes marathon would be pretty sweet right now. Actually, so would a Venture Brothers one. Hmm…what was I doing again? Right…I’m actually on the phone and should be paying attention to the person asking me questions. I say, “Uh huh” and hope he doesn’t notice.

I hit reply on an email and respond that yes, your request is fine by me oh stranger visiting our website. I finish my call and hang up the phone just as Jezzie kicks me and tells me that Dal’s sick again. I tell her to stop. “Go away. Bug me later.” An image of the High Priestess Tarot card comes to mind and I remember I’m supposed to be focusing on that card, only again…working…wait, where did I put my Diet Pepsi? I gulp it down and stare at my monitor, imagining green vines growing all around it, dotted with purple flowers and I hit reply on another email.

And I wonder why I’m always so tired by the time I get home. Sheesh. Some days my brain needs to just slow the hell down! That or it needs to find its way out of spaz mode. :P

I’m sure you can all relate. Er…or maybe not. I did mention the spaz mode, did I not?

Daily Life Reminds Me of Millennium Episode, “Somehow, Satan Got Behind Me”

Feb 222007
 

“I mean, I ask you: what evil genius invented the alarm clock? No other creature but man could concoct a device that interrupts, on a daily basis, their only state of natural happiness. No doubt, the evil genius’ evil twin contributed the snooze button.” ~Abum, “Somehow, Satan Got Behind Me” Millennium Season 2

I typically do my best to avoid rambling on my blog, but today is one of those days where the urge to ramble overwhelms and I must comply. It’s a thing.

Today is a day. I’ll give you that much. I overslept, which is the norm. Then I got a hole in my sock on the way to the bus stop. Already it was feeling like one of those days where I really should’ve just stayed in bed.

I boarded the bus and settled in, hoping to disappear into my latest read, Tall, Dark & Dead. No such luck. A spaz plopped down pretty much on top of me, shoving me into the window. He proceeded to sit in that legs spread wide pose that sucked up what little leg room I had left. In my head I pictured him sounding like a Neanderthal, “Me man. Must not squish manhood.” Trust me, honey. It’s not that big. Close your legs. Yep, good times….

When he popped open his cell and proved to be a loud talker, I quietly hummed in my head, “Just another typical bus ride in hell…,” as I saught out my iPod (also known as the Life Saver) for solace.

I can’t help but be continually reminded of a classic Millennium episode, “Somehow, Satan Got Behind Me.” I wonder if we as humans truly make our own hell. Hmm. Something to ponder more on, I guess. Perhaps it’s time for one of those life change thingies I’ve heard so much about. Just pack up my bags and start all over again. But then I have to wonder, if we really do create our own hell, would I simply be entering a different hell? Or worse yet, recreating it somewhere else?

Aah, but that line of thinking is better meant for when I’ve already absorbed much caffeine. Much, much caffeine, and perhaps a cookie as well. :P

I Do Believe the Cold Has Turned Me Into One of the Undead

Feb 162007
 

I think my skin has died. Yep. I’m pretty sure of it. The weather has been so cold here that any exposed skin has dried out and turned red. I suspect it will crack and blow away shortly. Heck, even my unexposed skin is screaming out in pain.

Yet there are louder cries that come from below the skin. Deep, muffled screams. My tortured joints are not happy.

And the whites of my eyes have faded to gray. They are accented with lovely red highlights scored across them. The puffy lids complete the look, giving them a haunted undead quality that’s ever enchanting to see.
It’s my first winter working in the City. Can you tell?

My body seems to be revolting. Either that or the cold has actually turned me into an undead creature. Is that even possible? Hmm. I wonder.
I crave a warm blanket and some hot cocoa. I don’t think I’d mind the cold so much if I could at least build a snowman (Calvin & Hobbes style snowmen of course!). Alas, the only snow we got is rock hard and useless to me for that. Bah!

And well that’s that. I don’t know how frequently I’ll be posting now since I’m about to dive into revision work and after that…outlining the next book. But, my web junkie disease may take hold again or my rambling affliction could very well creep up as well. One can never tell when either will strike!

So…a very pleasant day to you. Stay warm. Drink cocoa. Although, pizza and beer do make a good alternative choice too.

Pet Peeve of the Day — The Bathroom Cell Phone Talker

Feb 012007
 

Yep, another rant. It can’t be helped. It’s bad enough that all the bathrooms where I work are about as space deprived as those found on an airplane. But to walk in and find someone yakking on the phone as she takes care of business??? Egad, people. That’s rude to those that want to use another stall, as well as to the person with whom you speak. Plus, it’s not exactly sterile…ick!

It seems ridiculous to me that there are people that don’t know this. I think stupidity is growing at a rampant pace, but that tirade is better left for another day. And well that’s all I’m gonna say about that. A cottage hidden away in the woods (or on another planet) is looking better to me with each passing day…

When Did It Become Socially Acceptable To Spit?

Jan 312007
 

Did I miss the memo? Or perhaps there was a national bulletin that went out? Something must have happened because seemingly overnight, things have changed. And it’s not just me getting older. :P

Everywhere I look, people are spitting. Average Joe Schmoe types. Business men. Teens. Women too – from those dressed shi shi to those with ensembles that scream, “I have attitude, so there!”

At first I just thought it was because I was in the City more. The volume of people could account for an increased exposure to the crude. But I’m seeing this change in suburbia as well. Ick.

I have to wonder at what is happening to the general state of manners. People have little respect for each other and this sort of behavior only shows how little respect they even have for themselves. Sure, I get it. It’s a small point and you are wondering why I am ranting about it.

Beyond the ick factor, it’s a small thing that can easily escalate into other problems. What’s next? A growth in personal hygiene problems?

Egad, people! Please tell me that is not the case!

It’s bad enough I have to see people picking their noses, then grabbing onto the subway poles. But now I have to see this too? There are frozen globs of spit speckled over all the sidewalks!

I don’t know. None of this makes sense to me. As more offensive, germ-laden behavior becomes the norm, I find the desire to embrace my recluse nature. A cabin nestled in the woods, miles from people sounds lovely right about now. In fact, a cabin on another planet sounds even better!

Back Ye Winter Blahs!

Jan 252007
 

Vitamin C Face SpritzIt was bound to happen sooner or later. But today I really got hit with the winter blahs. I walked through the City and noticed the gray streets. Gray sidewalks. Gray buildings. Even the gray sky. Add to that the oppressive cold that’s washing over us and the immediate desire to curl up and go back to bed…there you have it, the winter blahs!

Not to fret, there are some things you can do to keep that spirit of the sun with you.

I find that this time of year, I tend to crave the citrusy smell of oranges and tangerines. I tend to avoid scents of baked goods (unless of course I am baking them) and seek fruit and herb scents to remind me of warmer days. Candles are a good choice. Or some lotion to keep at work.

Today I came across this wonderful thing at The Body Shop. It’s called Vitamin C Energizing Face Spritz. This stuff is invigorating and just the thing to keep in your desk or take with you when you travel. One spritz and I already started to feel more awake…alive. If you are unsure, stop by one of their stores and use some from the tester bottle. It’s worth a shot.

Other ideas to keep the winter blahs at bay:

  • Start your spring cleaning early!
  • Exercise
  • Do some creative writing prompts (maybe have your character embrace the winter!)
  • Create some photo collages with magazine images of sunny places or bright colors. You can also do this with images on your computer through programs like Photoshop.
  • Meditate and let your mind take you to a different place.
  • Read a book or two or three. Heck, read an entire series! Maybe give an audio book a try as well. Those can be a lot of fun and if the voice is right, it’s soothing to listen to.
  • Movie marathon time! Don’t forget the popcorn!
  • Crank your music really loud and dance!

Any ideas you’d like to share? Please feel free to post here.

GI Joe’s Red Ninja Chick: Jinx

Dec 192006
 

JinxI have gotten into quite a few conversations about this character lately. I think Christmas brings out the nostalgic pull of toys from our youth. One Christmas I got the character, Jinx, on a fluke. I know this because I got a few GI Joe characters and they were toys my brother collected, not me. In typical parent fashion, he ended up with a few duplicate characters that year, each having bought some of the same figures. They took the duplicates, wrapped them up, and gave them to me. I don’t remember the other characters I got (probably were kidnapped by the Star Wars figures :P), but I will never forget the kick ass cool, red ninja chick. So yes, folks, for those of you who don’t remember her, she does exist.
She’s a ninja. She’s dressed in red (not really sure how ninja-ish that is) and even has red finger nails. She comes equipped with two silver swords and a black backpack fit for carrying them. She also comes with a weapon that is supposedly a silver naginata, but it’s shape and style seems a bit ornamental for that. Still, cool weapon though.

Here is what it says on the back of her file card:

Code Name: Jinx
Ninja/Intelligence

File Name: Top Secret
SN: 037-42-4683
Primary Military Specialty: Intelligence
Secondary Military Specialty: Finance Clerk (I’m amused by this part)
Birthplace: Los Angeles, California
Grade: E-5

Jinx studied and competed in three forms of martial arts from the time she was seven until she graduated from Bryn Mawr. Upon arriving in Japan for vacation, she discovered that her family had been ninjas for generations and she was officially initiated into the clan. Jinx was recruited for the Joe Team by Snake Eyes.

“Don’t underestimate Jinx. She has been to the Secret Mountain and studied the Seven Silent Forms with the Blind Master. She has the Eye That Pierces, the Iron Hand and the Heart That Waits. She can see through your deception, batter aside your defenses and dazzle you with the strength of will.”
~H-1

Yep, that is one cool character. :)
Here are some places to read more about her:

Exploring Family History

Dec 102006
 

Eliza Calvert HallIt’s always fun to read through the history of family. I usually like to see what work people did since that just fascinates me. I know there were a lot of farmers in my family. I also that many settled here a long, long time ago. Overall it seems that most settled in Pennsylvania, then spread out across the US from there, Virginia and Ohio being big areas they settled in from what I’ve read about so far.

I like to read the bits where some signed documents declaring their loyalties to the colonies and others (their sons) went on to fight in the Revolutionary War. Somehow I can feel connected to history that way, even though I was never part of any of it. Weird, I know. I never claimed to make sense. :P

My head starts to spin at all the war talk in general and even more so at the sheer number of children that the families had. Egad. Some time I should clean up the bits of notes I’ve collected and put it together in something more legible. Hah!

I’ve known since I was a kid that through my father’s side, I’m related to former President Zachary Taylor. So I’ve read into some of his history because of that. But today I was reading a blip of another piece of family history and came across this relative, Eliza Calvert Hall. Her last name was actually Obenchain. Hall was a pen name. She’s a distant relative on my dad’s side, through my grandmother’s line.

I like that she was a writer. That’s what drew to me her first. I also like that she was a big advocate of suffrage and women’s rights. That is always wonderful to see. I plan on researching a little deeper and checking out what of her writings I can.

I just find history interesting. And it becomes more personal when it’s your own family. There are stories there. And mysteries hidden there too. I’d like to know more, but as is always the problem with families, many are poor at keeping track and well that’s just frustrating.

Got any fun bits of your own family history you’d like to share? Feel free to post here.

Have a great day!

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