A Few Random Thoughts

So, I was going to do a real post today. I was going to do an art post, with links & cool pictures & everything! However, I only had one site that I found interesting enough to share, so I'm just going to wait until next week. So you get a personal update post instead. After all, that's the reason I started a blog, wasn't it? Hold on for just a minute, because I'm not so sure now.

*goes back into my archives & looks it up* (April 2, 2006 if you're interested.)

Yup, that is the reason that I started it. I think that I'm getting better about the whole opening up thing. I really do. Sure I've had a few set backs. A couple of very painful experiences regarding trusting other people with my feelings, and a lot of heartbreak. I've learned a lot though. About myself, about people I thought I knew, and about human nature in general. And a hell of a lot about love.

At this point I'd like to say thank you to all of those people that have helped me gain all of this insight. Some of you know who you are.

And I'd like to say an even larger thank you to all of you who have been there for me while all this learning has taken place. I don't know how I would have managed it with your unending patience, beers, offers to crash on your couch, distractions and shoulders to cry on through all of my circular logic, mopey silences, grieving, finally accepting things as they are, and all of my scatteredness with all of the change going on. Bev & Patience, you have both gone above & beyond the call of friendship, and I am so thankful for you both. There are no words to tell you the gratitude, respect, and love I have for both of you.

I'm looking forward to 2007. This has been a pretty rough year for pretty much every one I know. At least there is finally light on the horizon!

I'm also looking forward to Seattle. A new city, a fresh start and all that. I think that I'm going to end up needing to pretty much cut ties with everyone for a few months once I get there. Not so much for my sake as for every one else's. I know that I'm going to self destruct a bit. And now that I've cured myself of all of my vices, it's going to happen in more subtle ways. It's probably going to be pretty messy inside of my head for a while. No one else needs to see that. Yes, I know that's what my friends are there for. I don't want to drag any one else down with me. Don't worry, I'm not going to do anything harmful to myself. I'm not going to take up any unsafe behaviors, I promise. I won't let myself sink too low either. I've been through much worse and been able to pull myself back out of it. I don't expect this time will be any different. Plus, I enjoy life way too much to let myself stay down for very long.

Things are already so much better than they were a month ago even. I've been able to strengthen a few old friendships, and make a couple of new ones. One person in particular has done a lot to help restore my faith in humanity in general. It's kind of funny how much we affect each other's lives, often with out realizing it. After having only known him for more than a day or so, he already had quite an impact on me. I've very glad to have meet him, even if he may be trying to kill me!

Okay, I think that this is enough sharing for one day!

What Temperament Are You?

You Have a Melancholic Temperament

Introspective and reflective, you think about everything and anything. You are a soft-hearted daydreamer. You long for your ideal life. You love silence and solitude. Everyday life is usually too chaotic for you. Given enough time alone, it's easy for you to find inner peace. You tend to be spiritual, having found your own meaning of life. Wise and patient, you can help people through difficult times. At your worst, you brood and sulk. Your negative thoughts can trap you. You are reserved and withdrawn. This makes it hard to connect to others. You tend to over think small things, making decisions difficult.

What Temperment Are You?

Yeah, that really is pretty accurate!

Your Love Life Secrets, Revealed

Your Love Life Secrets Are

Looking back on your life, you will have a few true loves. You've been deeply wounded in the past, and you're still recovering from that hurt. You expect a lot from your lover - you want the full package. You tend to be very picky. In fights, you are able to walk away and calm down. You are able to weather the storm. Break-ups can be painful for you, but you never show it. You hold your head high.

Your Love Life Secrets, Revealed

What Does Your Sleeping Position Say About You?

What Your Sleeping Position Says

You are secretly sensitive, but you often put up a front. Shy and private, you yearn for security. You take relationships slowly. You need lots of reassurances before you can trust.

What Does Your Sleeping Position Say About You?

The Five Factor Personality Test

Your Five Factor Personality Profile

Extroversion: You have low extroversion. You are quiet and reserved in most social situations. A low key, laid back lifestyle is important to you. You tend to bond slowly, over time, with one or two people. Conscientiousness: You have medium conscientiousness. You're generally good at balancing work and play. When you need to buckle down, you can usually get tasks done. But you've been known to goof off when you know you can get away with it. Agreeableness: You have high agreeableness. You are easy to get along with, and you value harmony highly. Helpful and generous, you are willing to compromise with almost anyone. You give people the benefit of the doubt and don't mind giving someone a second chance. Neuroticism: You have medium neuroticism. You're generally cool and collected, but sometimes you do panic. Little worries or problems can consume you, draining your energy. Your life is pretty smooth, but there's a few emotional bumps you'd like to get rid of. Openness to experience: Your openness to new experiences is high. In life, you tend to be an early adopter of all new things and ideas. You'll try almost anything interesting, and you're constantly pushing your own limits. A great connoisseir of art and beauty, you can find the positive side of almost anything.

The Five Factor Personality Test

What's Your Personality Cluster?

Your Personality Cluster is Introverted Thinking

You are: Objective, honest, and credible Intellectually curious, with many diverse interests More inclined toward ideas than people Fiercely independent and unapologetically unconventional

What's Your Personality Cluster?

This one is actually pretty spot on!

What's Your EQ (Emotional Intelligence Quotient)?

Your EQ is 147

50 or less: Thanks for answering honestly. Now get yourself a shrink, quick! 51-70: When it comes to understanding human emotions, you'd have better luck understanding Chinese. 71-90: You've got more emotional intelligence than the average frat boy. Barely. 91-110: You're average. It's easy to predict how you'll react to things. But anyone could have guessed that. 111-130: You usually have it going on emotionally, but roadblocks tend to land you on your butt. 131-150: You are remarkable when it comes to relating with others. Only the biggest losers get under your skin. 150+: Two possibilities - you've either out "Dr. Phil-ed" Dr. Phil... or you're a dirty liar.

What's Your EQ (Emotional Intelligence Quotient)?

How Evil Are You?

You Are 48% Evil

You are evil, but you haven't yet mastered the dark side. Fear not though - you are on your way to world domination.

How Evil Are You?

Mwah-ha-ha-ha

What Kind of American English Do You Speak?

Your Linguistic Profile:

60% General American English

30% Yankee

5% Upper Midwestern

0% Dixie

0% Midwestern

What Kind of American English Do You Speak?

I don't know quite what that 5% Upper Midwestern is, except proof that it's long past time for me to move!

What Time Of Day Are You?

You Are Midnight

You are more than a little eccentric, and you're apt to keep very unusual habits. Whether you're a nightowl, living in a commune, or taking a vow of silence - you like to experiment with your lifestyle. Expressing your individuality is important to you, and you often lie awake in bed thinking about the world and your place in it. You enjoy staying home, but that doesn't mean you're a hermit. You also appreciate quality time with family and close friends.

What Time Of Day Are You?

Note to self, and God

Don't say I didn't try to reach out. Don't you dare say that I wanted to, or was willing to be this cynical and jaded. Don't you ever blame me for my lack of trust in other people. If these last couple of days have taught me nothing else, they have taught me that we are truly alone here. I've learned who my true friends are. Even they have not shown the same loyalty to me that I would, and have, shown to them. The only person I could have depended on to be there for me, I can't ask to be now. This is so hard for the both of us already. I can't ask himto be my strength when I feel weak any longer. I'm going to have to re-learn how to stand on my own, with out ever leaning on any one else. We really are so alone here. I wouldn't take my own life, but were I to die tonight, I would be ready. I don't want to be part of such a self-involved, uncaring world any more.

I thought we were better friends than this...

I have a friend that I thought was a really good friend. When she and her boyfriend broke up, I didn't think twice about offering to let her come to my place. For as long as she wanted, or needed for that matter. Because that's waht friends do, right? At least, that's what I always thought. When a close friend is in need, I will do what ever I can to help them. (I should note, that it does take me a long time to get to this point. I can count on on hand the people I would do this for. And I count myself very lucky that it takes more than one finger to count the people I'm willing to go this far for.)

Well, I broke up with my boyfriend (of almost 6 years) yesterday. I saw this friend, we'll call her Jane, on IM a couple of hours ago. I've been feeling much more lonely than I thought I would, so I said hello to her. I told her how lonely I was feeling, and that I was sitting alone, drinking. I also mentioned that I would really like some company right now.

She told me that I should call another friend. We'll call her Jen. ( I spent last night at Jen's apartment, on the couch.) She note's that that way, I'll at least have "a shoulder to cry on."

Now, I know that Jen has to be to work early tomarrow morning. Jane doesn't have to be to work until at least noon, if even then. I mention that, and that I know Jen would stay up all night with me if I asked, but she already has a lot on her plate right now. I don't want to add an extra burden to it.

She says okay, but if I stay at my place, not to drink too much, but she worries. I'm thinking "You worry? Yeah, right! If you worried, you'd be offering to come here, or for me to go there. You know how hard it is for me to open up to people, and to admit that I need any one else. You f*&^ing know how hard it was for me to say this to you, and you know that this is as close as I can come to asking you to be there for me right now."

I know that opening up to others is an area I need to work on. But I also know that she knows this. And that she knows that this is as close as I can come to asking for help. And she's too damn busy talking to her new boyfriend, or what ever to be there when I need her.

I am in so much pain right now. I am so tired of being the strong one, the dependable one. Sometimes I need some one to be there for me, and a chance to cry on some one else's shoulder. I'm so tired of crying alone.

Maybe I expect too much from people, but I really feel like this was a really crappy thing to do. I had thought that maybe the other lesson I had to learn from this was that I need to open up more, and let people in a little bit. Now I'm thinking that maybe the other lesson is that I can not depend on any one else to be there, ever. That I need to get by on what ever strength I can muster on my own. That we all are truely alone.

So, things have changed

Well, I suppose I'm technically single now. Xombii & I talked about it yesterday. It was something that we both agreed was the right thing to do.

I know that we'll both be better for it in the long run. I know this is the right thing to do. I didn't know that it would be this hard after the initial conversation. I knew that was going to be hard, but I didn't know that it would stay this difficult after. I know that things will get better, but it sure as hell sucks right now.

How am I doing? Well, if you were to ask me, I'm sure I would say that I'm doing fine. However, I am sitting home alone, on the computer, the better part of the way through a bottle of Ephemere Green Apple ale. You can be the judge of how I'm really doing.

How Sinful Are You?

Your Deadly Sins

Lust: 40%

Sloth: 40%

Greed: 20%

Wrath: 20%

Envy: 0%

Gluttony: 0%

Pride: 0%

Chance You'll Go to Hell: 17%

You'll die from overexertion. *wink*

How Sinful Are You?

Are You More Cat or Dog?

You Are: 20% Dog, 80% Cat

You are are almost exactly like a cat. You're intelligent, independent, and set on getting your way. And there's no way you're going to fetch a paper for anyone!

Are You More Cat or Dog?


Heehee, that's really pretty true!

What's Your Ideal Pet?

Your Ideal Pet is a Cat

You're both aloof, introverted, and moody. And your friends secretly wish that you were declawed!

What's Your Ideal Pet?

Are You A Lady?

You Are 84% Lady

No doubt about it, you are a lady with impeccable etiquette You know how to put others at ease, even if their manners aren't the greatest.

Are You A Lady?

Relieved

I finally heard from my dear friend who lives in Russia. (Who I mentioned a couple of posts ago.) She is still in Moscow, safe, and doing alright. I got an email from her this morning. I am so relieved. I was starting to get really worried about her.

I also drank alcohol last night. It was the first time I had a drink after about a month of purposefully not drinking. I was able to have a couple of drinks, and stop there, before I got drunk. I'm relieved and pleased about this. I was a little scared that I was starting to develop a drinking problem. THis doesn't mean I'm going to start allowing myself to drink frequently anytime soonI still intend to stay away from alcohol pretty much until March. I'm happy that I was able to stop at a reasonable point last night though.

What Do Your Bathroom Habits Say About You?

What Your Bathroom Habits Say About You

You are very independent and self-centered. You don't solve other people's problems - and you don't expect them to solve yours. Your look is put together, classic, and stylish. You always look fashionable without trying. You are a very outgoing person. You are true to yourself, and you never hold back. In relationships, you tend to be very romantic and demanding. You'll treat your partner like gold, but you expect a lot in return.

What Do Your Bathroom Habits Say About You?


Okay, I don't think that they could be much more wrong on this one! *L*

Thursday Art Post

Just one thing to post this week, and that's Picture History. It is certainly cool enough to warrent a post of it's own.

"We have compiled a collection of thousands of the most important photographs of the last 150 years; pictures of our struggles, trials, and triumphs. We can only fully understand our history by gazing into the eyes of the people that made that history. Their eyes will tell a story that no words can. Browse the images by Theme, or use the search tool to find a picture or period of interest."

What Season Are You?

You Belong in Fall

Intelligent, introspective, and quite expressive at times... You appreciate the changes in color, climate, and mood that fall brings Whether you're carving wacky pumpkins or taking long drives, autumn is a favorite time of year for you

What Season Are You?

I'm re-employed, kind of

Our lead salesman and a couple of other people are going to try to start a new company, with the best of workers from our old company. We'll still have a few of our clients, since they of course got no notice either. So hopefully, things will work out better than I thought they would.

I'm unemployed

I just found out from a friend who I work with. They are shutting down the Minneapolis office. This sucks.

I'm starting to get worried or The Georgian/ Russian spy dispute keeps esculating

Okay, so I know that I told you all about this grand idea I had to group together similarly themed articles and post them on particular days of the week. I also know that I haven't done it at all.

At this point you are all thinking "What the hell Aeryn? You're not posting anything but silly blogthing quizzes!" aren't you? Yup, I thought so.

Well here's why, short answer. I've been very worried about a dear, dear friend all weekend. One who I can't get a hold of, and may be stuff in the middle of a very sticky political mess because of her ethnicity. She is a Georgian citizen living in Moscow. (Georgia the country, not the state.) Or at least, she was living in Moscow as of Thursday, which was the last time Xombii or I heard from her. I've been busy hunting down Russian and Georgian news sites in English, and following the story all weekend.

Ready for the full story yet? Here it is-

I have a very dear friend, Xpyredmind, who was born in Georgia and lives in Moscow. She was a foreign exchange student with Xombii's family in high school, and he introduced us through the internet last winter. We immediately connected. In the sort of way that makes me believe in re-incarnation, because there is no other way to explain the way we both instantly warmed to each other. It felt like I had known her all of my life, or perhapes since the beginning of time.

It's not just that I found her to be sweet, and funny, and easy to love. (Although I did.) Or what she had also liked me instantly too. (Although she did.) It wasn't like meeting a stranger that you know you will become friends with. It was more like feeling of a being reunited with a long lost, and much loved friend. We understand each other in the sort of way that only long time friends can. Despite the fact that we don't have that history of shared experiences, and in fact have hugely different pasts. I'm struggling to try to explain my feeling to you here, maybe because I have difficulty explaining them to myself. I suppose that if you have a friendship like this, you will understand. It's not a romantic feeling, nor is it purely just friendship. It goes beyond both. I don't think that there are words for what I want to say. At least not in the English language.

It's probably about time that I start detailing the current situation anyway. I'm going to reference the BBC a lot in here, so please trust me that I've done my homework on this one, because I have. I'll note the other sources I used too. The BBC simply has the most concise articles I've seen. Plus, the articles are written by some one for whom English is their native language, so it's a bit easier to read. If you would like a little background info on the two countries, here is the BBC's profiles for Georgia, and profile for Russia. Here is a good Q&A on Russian-Georgian Ties & Relations.

Here is a pretty good, but very general, article summarizing the events of the past week from Georgia Today.
I'm going to do this in a timeline. I think it will make it easier all around. I'll include links to relevant articles for those who want to a more in depth view of the situation.

Fri, Oct. 27 -

• Georgians arrest four Russian military officers in Tblisi, the capital, and charged them with spying.
• Moscow immediately demanded their release. Russian president Vladimir Putin says that they if the officers are not returned, Russia will get them back by what ever means necessary.
• Russia's migration service suspends the issuing of all visas to Georgians, and says that 180-day visas held by Georgians already in Russia would be cut to 90 days.
  
• Georgian citizens on watch growing developments with unease, and pride.
• Georgia's stance sparks pride and fear- BBC Article

Sun. Oct. 1-

• Russian President Vladmir Putin accused Georgia on Sunday of "state terrorism with hostage-taking."

Mon. Oct. 2-

• Georgia releases the four Russian officers. They are not doing it because of threats from Russia, or international pressure they say, but as a gesture of goodwill.
  
• Russia suspends all transportation, post, and money transfers between Russia & Georgia.

Tues. Oct. 3-

• Despite the release of four Russian officers, Russia refuses to lift sanctions.
• Moscow maintains Georgia blockade - BBC
  
• EU urges Russia to end blockade -BBC
• Unease grips Georgians in Russia - BBC

Thurs. Oct. 5-

• Russia's parliament backs President Putin tough sanctions against Georgia.
• Georgian restaurants and businesses are raided.
• Russia's migration service says that the suspension of visas to Georgians would be extended, and that 180-day visas held by Georgians already in Russia would be cut to 90 days.
• Xombii talks to Xpyredmind briefly on IM. This is the last time that she is on line that I know of.
  
• Russia turns screw on Georgians - BBC

Fri. Oct. 6-

• Between 130 - 150 Georgian citizens are deported to Tbilsi on supposed visa violations. The Georgians were rounded up in police raids over the previous week. Some deportees say that their documents are in order. Some are married to Russian citizens, have children who are Russian citizens, and have been living in Russia for 20 years or more.
  
• The Russian plane takes 178 Russians out of Georgia, which Moscow claims is now for its citizens.
• Georgian officials are at the airport to hand each one a basket of grapes and two bottles of wine - one white, one red - before they climbed on board. They were also given red roses, the symbol of a 2003 "Rose Revolution," which propelled Georgian President Mikhail Saakashvili to power.
• None of the Russians who spoke to Reuters said they were leaving because they feared staying in Georgia.
• Moscow police ask schools to draw up lists of pupils with Georgian surnames as part of their search for illegal immigrants. Raids on Georgian businesses and citizens continue.
  
• Georgians deported as row deepens - BBC
  
• Georgia deportees describe ordeal - BBC
  

Sat. Oct. 7-

• Georgia's Foreign Minister Gela Bezhuashvili calls Russia's actions a "mild form of ethnic cleansing."
• Georgia chides Russia 'cleansing' - BBC
  
• Russia tightens screws by starting to deport Georgian 'illegals' - The Independent
• Georgia deportees fly in, Russians leave with wine - Reuters

Sun. Oct. 8-

• Georgia's President Saakashvili prohibits the landing at the Tbilisi airport of Russian emergencies ministry's cargo planes carrying Georgian citizens, saying it was unacceptable to use cargo planes to transport people.
• Russia has no plans to annex Georgian territories - Ivanov - RIA Novosti

Mon. Oct. 9-

• At least 200 additional Georgians living in Moscow await deportation. Some accounts put that number at over 300.
  
• Even if all their paperwork was in order, Georgian citizens will not be able to go back to Russia for the next five years because of the large stamps in their passports that say DEPORTED.
• Georgians all over Moscow are increasingly afraid because of police round-ups, raids, and civilian violence and hate crimes against Georgians. Many do not want leave their homes. Many no longer have jobs to go to even if they did leave.
  
• Still no word from my friend. I'm trying to tell myself that she's just laying low for a few days, or spent the weekend at a friends house. I really, really hope that is what is going on.
  
• Georgian Deportations are "Soft Ethnic Cleansing" - The Messenger
• Georgia delays Russian expulsions - BBC
• Russia asks Georgia to admit 2 evacuating planes in next 2 days - RIA Novosti
• Fearful Georgians Shut Down Stalls and Eateries - The Moscow Times.
  
• Georgia punished over spy arrests - The Australian
  

If you would rather get your news by video & pictures, here you go-

• How the 'Spy Row' as it is being called, started to escalate (BBC Oct. 03, 2006 1min 34sec)
  
• Georgian President Mikhail Saakashvili speaks out (BBC Oct. 02, 2006 3min 10sec)
• In pictures: Russia-Georgia crisis (BBC Oct. 02, 2006)
  
• In pictures: Russia-Georgia row (BBC Oct. 06, 2006)

Sources:

• The Australian
  
• BBC News
• CNN
  
• Georgia Today
• The Independent
• The Messenger
• The Moscow Times
  
• Reuters
• RIA Novosti (Russian News and Information Agency)
  

How Scary Are You?

You Are a Little Scary

You've got a nice edge to you. Use it.

How Scary Are You?

Are You Romantic or Realistic?

You Are A Realist

When it comes to romance, you tend to take a realistic approach. You believe that love takes time, and it's something you have to work hard for. A bit cynical, over the top romance tends to get under your skin. Your heart is difficult to win ... but it's totally worth it.

Are You Romantic or Realistic?

Yeah, that's pretty much true. I do have a soft spot for grand displays of love though!

How Cynical Are You?

You Are 60% Cynical

Yes, you are cynical, but more than anything, you're a realist. You see what's screwed up in the world, but you also take time to remember what's right.

How Cynical Are You?

Give 100%

Mathematics....From a strictly mathematical viewpoint it goes like this:

What Makes 100%? What does it mean to give MORE than 100%? Ever wonder
about those people who say they are giving more than 100%? We have all
been to those meetings where someone wants you to give over 100%. How
about achieving 103%? What makes up 100% in life?

Here's a little mathematical formula that might help you answer these
questions:


If:

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z


is represented as:

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26

Then:

H-A-R-D-W-O-R- K
8+1+18+4+23+15+18+11 = 98%

and

K-N-O-W-L-E-D-G-E
11+14+15+23+12+5+4+7+5 = 96%

But,

A-T-T-I-T-U-D-E
1+20+20+9+20+21+4+5 = 100%

And,

B-U-L-L-S-H-I-T
2+21+12+12+19+8+9+20 = 103%

AND, look how far ass kissing will take you.

A-S-S-K-I-S-S-I-N-G
1+19+19+11+9+19+19+9+14+7 = 118%

So, one can conclude with mathematical certainty that, while Hard work
and Knowledge will get you close, and Attitude will get you there, it's
the Bullshit and Ass kissing that will put you over the top.

Don't you just Love it!!!

How Quirky Are You?

Your Quirk Factor: 59%

You're a pretty quirky person, but you're just normal enough to hide it. Congratulations - you've fooled other people into thinking you're just like them!

How Quirky Are You?

What's Your Religious Philosophy?

You are a Self-Discoverer

You're not religious, but you've created your own kind of spirituality. Introspective and thoughtful, you tend to look inward for the divine. You are distrusting of all forms of organized religion. You especially dislike religious gurus and leaders, who you feel are charlatans.

What's Your Religious Philosophy?

Are You An Extrovert or An Introvert?

You Are 0% Extrovert, 100% Introvert

You avoid people at all costs You aren't one for social interaction And you limit your interaction to a select few Thank God for self checkout!

Are You An Extrovert or An Introvert?

Yeah, as if I need a quiz to tell me this!

What Mythological Creature Are You?

You Are a Pegasus

You are a perfectionist, with an eye for beauty. You know how to live a good life - and you rarely deviate from your good taste. While you aren't outgoing, you have excellent social skills. People both admire you - and feel very comfortable around you.

What Mythological Creature Are You?

New Stuff!

I decided that I don't want to end up posting a large number of entries all at once like I was on myspace. Instead I'm going to try posting any articles I find grouped together by topic, on different days of the week.

Here is the tentative schedule:
(Which is of course subject to change at any random time!)

Mon.- Fun, Odd, & Random

Tues.- Useful and Tech

Wed.- Science

Thurs.- Art

Fri.- Gaming & Entertainment

Sat.- Politics

Sun.- Psychology and Neuroscience


This is not ment to be a 'Week in Review' sort of things. It's just articles, websites, and stuff that I may come across that I find interesting enough to share. And of course, if I didn't find anything interesting that week, I won't post a blog about that topic.


Enjoy!

How's Your Attitude?

Your Attitude is Better than 60% of the Population

You have a good attitude. While a realist, you do see the positive side of most things. People love to be around you.

How's Your Attitude?

How's Your Inner Child?

Your Inner Child Is Surprised

You see many things through the eyes of a child. Meaning, you're rarely cynical or jaded. You cherish all of the details in life. Easily fascinated, you enjoy experiencing new things.

How Is Your Inner Child?

Me? Not cynical and jaded? *L* Yeah right. Although, I could justifiably be a lot more cynical and jaded. I guess that in comparatively, I'm not doing so bad!

Hello?

Is there anybody out there? Or am I on my own now that I've escaped the evil clutches of myspce?


(P.S. - You can leave a comment with out having a blogspot account.)

Broke & couchless? Build your own!

I thought this was amusing, and clever. It can't be all that comfortable though!

FedEx Box Furniture

There is a couch, table, desk, chairs, and even a bed!

Early Recorded Sounds

I thought this was pretty nifty. Early recording from 1888 and 1889.

Free Whoppers

I found this through Digg. Thought you all might like to know too.

All you have to do is get a reciept from a burger king that has a survey box on the back. Instead of calling the number and wasting your time just follow these instructions for free no hassle food.

Here are the instructions:

• Find a reciept with the telephone survey on the back.
• Where it says to write the code and place the two letter code followed by 5 numbers (hint: Numbers do not have to be in any order or value except that there has to be five of them) for which month you are currently in.
• Example: WH 12345 the only thing they will check are the two letters.
• You still have to buy any size fry or drink but you will always get a free sandwich of your choosing.

Month Codes:

Based on which month your are in choose the two letters that coincide with that month.

1. Jan = BB
2. Feb = LS
3. Mar = JH
4. April = PL
5. May = BK
6. June = WH
7. July = FF
8. Aug = BF
9. Sept = CF
10. Oct = CK
11. Nov = CB
12. Dec = VM

This is unvarified by myself so far, so I can make no promises to if it really works or not. So if some one tries it, I'd love to hear if it worked!

Here is the blogg it is originally posted to.

President Chavez calls Bush the Devil

This morning during the UN general Assembly Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez called President Bush the devil risking the survival of all humans. It's about time some one said it!

"The hegemonic pretensions of the American empire are placing at risk the very survival of the human species. We continue to warn you about this danger and we appeal to the people of the United States and the world to halt this threat, which is like a sword hanging over our heads.
...
And the devil came here yesterday. Yesterday the devil came here. Right here."

[crosses himself]

"And it smells of sulfur still today.
Yesterday, ladies and gentlemen, from this rostrum, the president of the United States, the gentleman to whom I refer as the devil, came here, talking as if he owned the world. Truly. As the owner of the world.
I think we could call a psychiatrist to analyze yesterday's statement made by the president of the United States. As the spokesman of imperialism, he came to share his nostrums, to try to preserve the current pattern of domination, exploitation and pillage of the peoples of the world.
...
They say they want to impose a democratic model. But that's their democratic model. It's the false democracy of elites, and, I would say, a very original democracy that's imposed by weapons and bombs and firing weapons.
What a strange democracy. Aristotle might not recognize it or others who are at the root of democracy.
What type of democracy do you impose with marines and bombs?
The president of the United States, yesterday, said to us, right here, in this room, and I'm quoting, "Anywhere you look, you hear extremists telling you can escape from poverty and recover your dignity through violence, terror and martyrdom.
Wherever he looks, he sees extremists.
...
The imperialists see extremists everywhere. It's not that we are extremists. It's that the world is waking up. It's waking up all over. And people are standing up.
I have the feeling, dear world dictator, that you are going to live the rest of your days as a nightmare because the rest of us are standing up, all those who are rising up against American imperialism, who are shouting for equality, for respect, for the sovereignty of nations."


Read the full transcript at Drudge Report. The transcript is not yet available on the UN's GA 61 site. However, you can watch the webcast in English or Spanish.

This is not the first time Chavez has spoken his mind about the current US administration. In this CCN article from May, 15 2006 he accused Bush of committing genocide and states that he should be tried in an international court and imprisoned. This is just one example of Chavez's very vocal opposition to Bush.

I find it interesting that the administration is dismissing Chavez out of hand.

John Bolton, the U.S. envoy to the United Nations: "We're not going to address that kind of comic strip approach to international affairs."

Condoleezza Rice, Secretary of State: "I am not going to dignify a comment by the Venezuelan president to the president of the United States. I think it is not becoming for a head of state."

Imagine, if you will that he is saying essentially the same thing, with the same passion, about fighting terrorism and defeating Al-Qaeda. I'm pretty sure that instead they'd be praising him up and down for his dedication to the cause of freedom and peace for all people. Or at least, President Bush's version of it.


As a couple of side notes:

Here is President Bush's speech to the UN from Tuesday.

Here is the UN GA 61 main page, for those of you who want to keep up with what is going on.

And a clip from The Dec 7, 2005 Colbert Report. The Word is Hell, yes!, and it talks a bit about Chavez discounting oil for poor American families.

Are you a true Vermonter?

If you are a TRUE VERMONTER:

1.Your idea of a traffic jam is ten cars waiting to pass a tractor on route 7.
2. Vacation means going to Burlington for the weekend.
3. You measure distance in hours.
4. You know several people who have hit moose more than once.
5. You often switch from heat to A/C in the same day.
6. You use a down comforter in the summer.
7. Your grandparents drive at 65 mph through 13 feet of snow during a raging blizzard, without flinching.
8. You see people wearing hunting clothes at social events.
9. You install security lights on your house and garage and leave both unlocked.
10. You think of the major food groups as deer meat, beer, fish, and berries.
11. You carry jumper cables in your car and your girlfriend knows how to use them.
12. There are 7 empty cars running in the parking lot at the K-mart store at any given time!
13. You design your kid's Halloween costume to fit over a snowsuit.
14. Driving is better in the winter because the potholes are filled with snow.
15. You think sexy lingerie is tube socks and flannel pajamas.
16. You know all 5 seasons: almost winter, winter, still winter, mud, and construction.
17. It takes you 3 hours to go to the store for one item even when you're in a rush because you have to stop and talk to everyone in town.
18. You actually understand these jokes and forward them to all your friends from Vermont
19. Your idea of a graduation party is a keg in the backwoods with some friends.
20. 10 degrees is considered a warm day.
21. The christmas lights are on the house year round.
22. You know the three ways of hunting deer: sitting in a tree stand (boring), stalking the deer (hard as hell), and hitting it with your truck (by far the easiest and most full proof way).
23. You know February vaction was first made for people who sugar.
24. You think the bigger the truck the better
25. You say idear and milt'n
26. You think a winter with only 2 feet of snow at a time is a mild winter.
27. You or your parents don't fully grasp the concept of internet.
28. You know you can buy a bong legally and you know where to get them.
29. You are used to the smell of cow manure.
30. You learned to drive when you could first reach the pedals.
31. You wait up all night just to shoot pesky racoons
32. You or your parents own more then 3 guns.
33. You have to travel for at least 30 minutes to get any good clothes.
34. You think camo clothes, suspenders and flannel are "in style".
35. You get annoyed when people think Vermont is part of Canada, but you yourself think New Mexico is part of Central America and its the updated version of Mexico.
36. You make some of your own furniture.
37. You've at least tipped one cow in your life.
38. You've skinny dipped at least once in lake champlain.
39. You get immense fun out of setting off any kind of firework.
40. You know the few roads into canada no-one appears to know about.
41. You drink water from your own well.
42. Within a mile of where you live you can find a cow.
43. Ain't is part of your common vocabulary.

Free Legel Advice From An Attorney

A corporate attorney sent the following out to the employees in his company.

1. The next time you order checks have only your initials (instead of first name) and last name put on them. If someone takes your checkbook, they will not know if you sign your checks with just your initials or your first name, but your bank will know how you sign your checks.

2. Do not sign the back of your credit cards. Instead, put "PHOTO ID REQUIRED."

3. When you are writing checks to pay on your credit card accounts, DO NOT put the complete account number on the "For" line. Instead, just put the last four numbers. The credit card company knows the rest of the number, and anyone who might be handling your check as it passes through all the check-processing channels will not have access to it.

4. Put your work phone # on your checks instead of your home phone. If you have a PO Box, use that instead of your home address. If you do not have a PO Box, use your work address. Never have your SS# printed on your checks. You can add it if it is necessary. However, if you have it printed, anyone can get it.

5. Place the contents of your wallet on a photocopy machine. Do both sides of each license, credit card, etc. You will know what you had in your wallet and all of the account numbers and phone numbers to call and cancel. Keep the photocopy in a safe place. Also carry a photocopy of your passport when traveling either here or abroad. We have all heard horror stories about fraud that is committed on us in stealing a name, address, Social Security number, credit cards.

6. When you check out of a hotel that uses cards for keys (and they all seem to do that now), do not turn the "keys" in. Take them with you and destroy them. Those little cards have on them all of the information you gave the hotel, including address and credit card numbers and expiration dates. Someone with a card reader, or employee of the hotel, can access all that information with no problem whatsoever.

Unfortunately, as an attorney, I have first hand knowledge because my wallet was stolen last month. Within a week, the thieve(s) ordered an expensive monthly cell phone package, applied for a VISA credit card, had a credit line approved to buy a Gateway computer and received a PIN number from DMV to change my driving record information online.
Here is some critical information to limit the damage in case this happens to you or someone you know:
1. We have been told we should cancel our credit cards immediately. The key is having the toll free numbers and your card numbers handy so you know whom to call. Keep those where you can find them.
2. File a police report immediately in the jurisdiction where your credit cards, etc., were stolen. This proves to credit providers you were diligent, and this is a first step toward an investigation (if there ever is one).
However, here is what is perhaps most important of all (I never even thought to do this.)
3. Call the three national credit reporting organizations immediately to place a fraud alert on your name and Social Security number. I had never heard of doing that until advised by a bank that called to tell me an application for credit was made over the Internet in my name. The alert means any company that checks your credit knows your information was stolen, and they have to contact you by phone to authorize new credit. By the time I was advised to do this, almost two weeks after the theft, all the damage had been done. There are records of all the credit checks initiated by the thieves' purchases, none of which I knew about before placing the alert Since then, no additional damage has been done, and the thieves threw my wallet away this weekend (someone turned it in). It seems to have stopped them dead in their tracks.
Now, here are the numbers you always need to contact about your wallet and contents being stolen:
1.) Equifax: 1-800-525-62852.)
2.)Experian (formerly TRW): 1-888-397-37423.)
3.)Trans Union: 1-800-680-7289
4.) Social Security Administration (fraud line): 1-800-269-0271

We pass along jokes on the Internet; we pass along just about everything. Nevertheless, if you are willing to pass this information along, it could really help someone you care.

Bananas

I'll bet that after reading THIS, you'll NEVER look at a banana in the same way again!

Bananas: Containing three natural sugars - sucrose, fructose and glucose combined with fiber, a banana gives an instant, sustained and substantial boost of energy. Research has proven that just two bananas provide enough energy for a strenuous 90-minute workout. No wonder the banana is the number one fruit with the world's leading athletes. But energy isn't the only way a banana can help us keep fit. It can also help overcome or prevent a substantial number of illnesses and conditions, making it a must to add to our daily diet.

Depression: According to a recent survey, undertaken by MIND, amongst people suffering from depression, many felt much better after eating a banana. This is because bananas contain tryptophan, a type of protein that the body converts into serotonin, known to make you relax, improve your mood and generally make you feel happier.

PMS: Forget the pills -- eat a banana. The vitamin B6 it contains regulates blood glucose levels, which can affect your mood.

Anemia: High in iron, bananas can stimulate the production of hemoglobin in the blood and so helps in cases of anemia.

Blood Pressure: This unique tropical fruit is extremely high in potassium yet low in salt, making it the perfect way to beat blood pressure. So much so, the US Food and Drug Administration has just allowed the banana industry to make official claims for the fruit's ability to reduce the risk of blood pressure and stroke.

Brain Power: 200 students at a Twickenham (Middlesex) school were helped through their exams this year by eating bananas at breakfast, break, and lunch in a bid to boost their brain power. Research has shown that the potassium-packed fruit can assist learning by making pupils more alert.

Hangovers: One of the quickest ways of curing a hangover is to make a banana milkshake, sweetened with honey. The banana calms the stomach and, with the help of the honey, builds up depleted blood sugar levels, while the milk soothes and re-hydrates your system.

Heartburn: Bananas have a natural antacid effect in the body, so if you suffer from heartburn, try eating a banana for soothing relief.

Morning Sickness: Snacking on bananas between meals helps to keep blood sugar levels up and avoid morning sickness.

Mosquito bites: Before reaching for the insect bite cream, try rubbing the affected area with the inside of a banana skin. Many people find it amazingly successful at reducing swelling and irritation.

Nerves: Bananas are high in B vitamins that help calm the nervous system.

Overweight and at work? Studies at the Institute of Psychology in Austria found pressure at work leads to gorging on comfort food like chocolate and crisps. Looking at 5,000 hospital patients, researchers found the most obese were more likely to be in high-pressure jobs. The report concluded that, to avoid panic-induced food cravings, we need to control our blood sugar levels by snacking on high carbohydrate foods every two hours to keep levels steady.

Ulcers: The banana is used as the dietary food against intestinal disorders because of its soft texture only raw fruit that can be eaten without distress in over-chronicler cases. It also neutralizes over-acidity and reduces irritation by coating the lining of the stomach.

Temperature control: Many other cultures see bananas as a "cooling" fruit that can lower both the physical and emotional temperature of expectant mothers. In Thailand, for example, pregnant women eat bananas to ensure their baby is born with a cool temperature.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): Bananas can help SAD sufferers because they contain the natural moodenhancer tryptophan.

Smoking: Bananas can also help people trying to give up smoking. The B6, B12 they contain, as well as the potassium and magnesium found in them, help the body recover from the effects of nicotine withdrawal.

Stress: Potassium is a vital mineral, which helps normalize the heartbeat, sends oxygen to the brain and regulates your body's water balance. When we are stressed, our metabolic rate rises, thereby reducing our potassium levels. These can be rebalanced with the help of a high-potassium banana snack.

Strokes: According to research in "The New England Journal of Medicine," eating bananas as part of a regular diet can cut the risk of death by strokes by as much as 40%!

So, a banana really is a natural remedy for many ills. When you compare it to an apple, it has four times the protein, twice the carbohydrates, three times the phosphorus, five times the vitamin A and iron, and twice the other vitamins and minerals. It is also rich in potassium and is one of the best value foods around. So maybe its time to change that well-known phrase so that we say, "A banana a day keeps the doctor away!"You might want to pass this tidbit to those friends you'd like to keep around!!!!You'll have to excuse me now.......I'm off to the store for my banana's.

Things I like today-

Sen. Ted Kennedy speaking out in support for Net Neutrality

These fun and humorous videos -

We all know what the internet is really for. Avenue Q made a song about it, and the nice monsters from World of Warcraft made a video for the song. Listen and be amused. The Internet Is For Porn

Everyone's favorite furniture store is of course The Presidents


These quotes -

"Be curious always, for knowledge will not acquire you; you must acquire it." --Sudie Back

"To be happy, you need something or someone to love, something to keep you busy and something to look forward to." Anon/ Modern proverb

"For a long time it seemed to me that life was about to begin - real life. But there was always some obstacle in the way, something to be gotten through first, some unfinished business, time still to be served, a debt to be paid. At last it dawned on me that these obstacles were my life. This perspective has helped me to see there is no way to happiness. Happiness is the way. So treasure every moment you have and remember that time waits for no one. Happiness is a journey, not a destination..." - Souza

"The things we know best are the things we haven't been taught." - Marquis de Vauvenargues

"Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around."- Leo Buscaglia

"Mindfulness is not just a word or a discourse by the Buddha, but a meaningful state of mind. It means we have to be here now, in this very moment, and we have to know what is happening internally and externally. It means being alert to our motives and learning to change unwholesome thoughts and emotions into wholesome ones. Mindfulness is a mental activity that in due course eliminates all suffering." - Ayya Khema, "Be an Island"

"Patriotism is the last refuge of a scoundrel." - Samuel Johnson

"The unexamined life is not worth living." - Socrates

"Among those whom I like or admire, I can find no common denominator, but among those whom I love, I can: all of them make me laugh." - WH Auden


Strawberry daiquiris (Yeah, I know. It suprised me too.)




Famous Dave's
They have really tasty BBQ.

Aeryn's list of open-source software that doesn't suck!

The first thing I would recommend is to do your downloading through C-NET. I haven't had any problems with viruses, spy-ware, or ad-ware with anything I've downloaded through them. Of course use common sense, don't download a stuff all willy-nilly , pay attention to the staff & customer reviews, etc. But you all know that already, I'm sure.

For those of you in Minneapolis I recommend switching to Earthlink if you are currently using Time Warner High Speed. Why? Well, if you have Time Warner, I'm sure you know that they suck! But even above that, the Earthlink anti-virus software that you get is pretty decent. (For the same price you're already paying.) Combined with a couple of other small changes that I'll tell you about in just a minute, I have been blissfully problem free since installing it. If you have an older computer, it may cause it to run a slow when doing a virus scan, or updating it. I haven't had any speed issues otherwise. (Steps down off of my soap box. Sorry about that.)

If you don't have an anti-virus program/ pop up blocker already, or if the one that you have just plan old doesn't work, I love the Google Toolbar. It can be kind of a pain in the ass, doing things like blocking new windows that you want, but you can set it to always allow pop ups from specific sites, or temporarily disable it it you would like to.

If you use any sort of instant messenger you'll like Trillian. If you use more than one IM service, you'll love Trillian. It opens AOL IM, Yahoo IM, MSN IM, and ICQ. With out having to download any of them. All you need is your log in email and password for each program. You can choose an avatar, and it has an extensive list of icons. You can also set it to/ start it in 'invisible' mode, so you can see who is online, but they can't see you.

If you are not using it now, I highly, highly recommend switching your web browser to Firefox. Since many viruses are written specifically for Internet Explorer, it's more secure than IE. It's also more handy, and fun. It uses a tabbed browsing system, so you can open more than one web page in the same window. You can download different skins for it, and a lot of different extentions. Some are handy, some are just fun. I can send out a list of my favorite extentions if any one is interested. Now that I'm used to it, I don't know how I ever lived with out it. There are some programs that won't open in Firefox though. (Like Window's Media player.) You will need to use IE on occasion still, but it's well worth the occasional inconvenience of having to switch browsers.

Another program that I love is Open Office. Like MS Office, but no irritating animated paperclip, and it's free. It has a word processing program, a spreadsheet program, a presentation program, and a couple of others that I haven't checked out yet. (Drawing and math I think.) I was using Word Perfect before I found Open Office, and the difference is astounding.

I love Google's Picassa for basic photo editing. Red Eye removal, light and color adjusting, it's pretty handy with all that basic stuff.

If you are looking for a slightly more advanced editing program, try The GIMP. It's not quite Photoshop. For a price difference of $650 verses free though, it comes pretty damn close. Close enough to make me happy in fact. For those of you who are wondering about the name, GIMP is an acronym for GNU Image Manipulation Program.)


A couple of other programs that I've found fun and/or handy -
(Yeah, I'm getting lazy and am gonna just going to put down the web site's descriptions, or else I'll never get this out.)

Google Earth. "Want to know more about a specific location? Dive right in -- Google Earth combines satellite imagery, maps and the power of Google Search to put the world's geographic information at your fingertips. View exotic locales like Maui and Paris as well as points of interest such as local restaurants, hospitals, schools, and more. Fly from space to your neighborhood. Type in an address and zoom right in. Search for schools, parks, restaurants, and hotels. Get driving directions. Tilt and rotate the view to see 3D terrain and buildings. Save and share your searches and favorites. Even add your own annotations." Endless hours of fun. At least for me anyway.

Writely - an on-line word processor. "Share documents instantly & collaborate real-time. Pick exactly who can access your documents. Edit your documents from anywhere. Nothing to download -- your browser is all you need. Store your documents securely online. Offsite storage plus data backup every 10 seconds." You can upload from word and many other file types, save docs in Writely, on your desktop, or publish to the web or on your blog. I've found it more useful than I thought I would.


Well, that's it for now. I hope you find this handy!

Case Mod: The Ultimate List

Case Mod: The Ultimate List

Case mods or computer case modifications are the ultimate display of geek chic, creativity and hardware prowess! Many of them are pieces of art, whereas others are just plain weird.

(Here are some of the best/wierdest from the site. Many have links to the mod builders sites, with step by step details of how they did it.)


Yes, there is a hamster in this computer!


I think that someone has to much time on thier hands...


I love new uses for old things!


The Hellraiser Puzzlebox mod.


Here's to hoping all ammo was removed before the mod or at least, they have a really good cooling system!



Yes, it is both a functioning computer, and a functioning coffee maker!





This one really amuses me.

The Meaning of Life

I think I've figured it out. Just thought you would like to know.

(And yes, I am both serious and sober!)

What Slanguage Do You Speak?

Your Slanguage Profile

New England Slang: 75%

Victorian Slang: 75%

British Slang: 50%

Aussie Slang: 0%

Canadian Slang: 0%

Prison Slang: 0%

Southern Slang: 0%

What Slanguage Do You Speak?

What Kind of Intelligence Do You Have?

Your Dominant Intelligence is Intrapersonal Intelligence

Reflective and thoughtful, you enjoy spending time alone. You are good at analyzing yourself - and knowing your true feelings. Totally self aware, you are in tune with your dreams and desires. A spiritual and philopsophical person, your inner calmness inspires and helps others. You would make a great philosopher, researcher, or theorist.

What Kind of Intelligence Do You Have?

Things I Like Today - Summer 2006/ Long Overdue edition

Magic Hat Beer!



Most especially Circus Boy

I think #9 is also pretty tasty.





And really, I did enjoy most of the
Summer Variety 12 pack.

I really miss seeing these bottle caps.
And the random things printed on the undersides.





Emo Kid Buddies

Phwoar Teeny Emos <3 Phwoar Teeny Emos <3

THE SILLY SLEEPING POSE OLYMPICS!

Exactly as the name implies. Sleeping cats in silly positions!


1st Annual National Patient Sleep Conference Announced by Talk About Sleep

Again, exactly as the name implies. I'm very excited to get this opportunity!

This T-Shirt from B-Offensive
(Which I have and wear pretty often.) I agree with most of what it says.

And here is what it says-

*ABHORRENT*
(For the illiterate, stuff I hate.)
Taxes * Big government * Bureaucracy * Minimum wage laws * The continual abrogation of the Bill of Rights * People who fail to take responsibility for their own actions * Racism * Affirmative action * The police state * People who advocate 'equal results' over 'equal rights' * The IRS, BATF, DEA, and 99% of all other government agencies * Welfare and other entitlement programs * The Davis-Bacon Act * Protectionism and tariffs * Farm subsidies * People who attempt to force others to accept their belief system about God, drugs, sex, multiculturalism, abortion, etc... with threats of eternal damnation, criminal prosecution, or further physical discomfort through exposure to emotionally charged rhetoric screamed directly into the ear * Stupid laws * Most politicians * Political
correctness * Gun control freaks * People who pass the buck * The War on Drugs * People who like to blame television, video games, or the Internet rather than holding the kids or parents responsible * Censorship * A National ID * The lack of a truly free press * American imperialism * Parents who do not parent * The nanny state * Government surveillance *
Spin, prevarication, equivocation, or any other form of manipulative deception * Communists, Socialists, Marxists, 95% of all democrats and at least 80% of republicans * People who prefer assumptions and wive's tales to facts * Those without any intellectual curiosity * People who don't read * People who have a victim mentality and ask for special treatment * Anyone who is either fiscally liberal or socially conservative * Those opposed to merit *Anyone afraid to think for themselves *

And finally, these quotes, and this word-

"Faith is, at one and the same time, absolutely necessary and altogether impossible." - Stanislaw Lem

"Love is an exploding cigar we willingly smoke." - Lynda Barry

pleonasm: the use of more words than are necessary to express an idea.



That's all for today!