Happy Friday: Rolling Right Along

I can't believe it's been almost two weeks since we took our vacation. All I've wanted to do since we got back is not sweat and take another trip. Being someplace different revitalizes.

I, of course, have a ton of photos from our jaunt to Kentucky and Tennessee. Just so I don't overload you all at once, I've decided to divide the pics into four categories: places, people, food and details. Today? Some of the sights in Louisville and Nashville...















Did you know Nashville has a full scale replica of The Parthenon?



It's been a while since we looked around online. Shall we?

1) Oklahoma! Your peeping toms are way too freaky and desperate!

2) Wow. There are a lot more wild cats in the world than I thought there were.

3) Speaking of cats, Wasabi-chan the kitten has been through a lot. It's hard not to love her.

4) When times are tough, sometimes you need a manifesto to help you along.

That's all for me friends. Have a great weekend!

Happy Friday: It's All In The Wrist

Our formerly rotten bathroom floor...

Is there anything better than whipping your house into shape? Well, OK, sure. Lots of things are better than cleaning house and repairing stuff. But! Taking care of these issues sure is nice.

HUBS and I finally had a sump pump put in our basement so that it won't flood anymore. It'll take us a while to pay that work off, but at least it's DONE.

Since the beginning of the year, we've had insulation added to the attic and basement, the kitchen plumbing replaced, the bathroom floor replaced, the toilet fixed and upgraded and we're about to add an electric outlet in the basement.

Holy shit, we're on a ROLL NOW!

We've also been getting rid of mounds of clothes, shoes, dishes, electronics and various useless household items we've been holding on to for way too long.

It's almost, very slightly, like living in a new house. And that's nice.

What's going on, peeps? Let's see...

1) Autocorrect never fails to fail spectacularly.

2) Want to take better photos? It's really not that hard.

3) If you loved Reading Rainbow and Mister Rogers as a kid, immerse yourself in this & this.

4) Virginia Woolf thinks all writers should keep a journal.

5) If you need help getting motivated to do...anything, while depressed, Psych Central has 12 tips for you.

Oh, yeah! Have a great weekend, everyone!

Happy Friday: Today...We Shop!

Today is pay day. Usually, I'm very calm on pay day. There are bills to pay and groceries to buy...but today? Today all I can think about is shopping.

So I'm just gonna do it.

But before we buy our asses off, let's see what's happening online...

1) Writers, stubbornness will get you through that WIP. By the by, if you like fantasy novels, the writer of the linked article, Laini Taylor, has an awesome series called Daughter of Smoke & Bone. It is truly un-put-downable.

2) There are now giant, pink slugs in Australia. Just more evidence that I should probably never go there.

3) Get nervous when you have to talk to people you don't know? Here are three tips to help.

4) This animated map of eye-witnessed meteorite strikes since 921 is pretty cool. After it plays you can scroll down to get more detailed info.

5) The Talks features cool interviews of everyone from Michael Caine to Johnny Rotten.

Have a great weekend!

Happy Friday: Cleanin' House

Well, this has been a productive time for me. I got an article written today, ran some errands and (this is a biggie) cleaned out my closets and cabinets and bins.

Oh, Lordy! I've got seven bags of clothes, shoes, purses, belts, jackets, kitchen goods and old magazines to take to the Goodwill tomorrow. It feels good. I was holding on to all these clothes that I haven't been able to fit into in nine years. Purses I was keeping because someone gave them to me as gifts. Magazines I never got around to reading. Shoes I thought I would wear, that I never wore.

This is so much better.

Also, with the exception of yesterday when it was raining, I went somewhere every day. So, I'm breaking through this agoraphobia day by day.

That? So. Much. Better.

What's happening online nowadays...

1) The truth about fear from the woman who runs Facebook. If fear is keeping you from doing anything you want to do, read this.

2) “Life really begins when you have discovered that you can do anything you want.” - William J. Reilly

3) Any ladies who need some encouragement/tips for traveling alone should check out The Gypsy Gals.

4) Everyone needs to relax and distress. Here's some help if you need it.

5) Don't think you're not an expert at anything just because you don't have a degree in it. You just need to figure out what kind of expert you are.

6) Finally, 40 cats who suck at hide-and-seek.

Have a wonderful weekend, everyone!

Happy Friday: Set It Off

I just wrote three articles back to back and now, I'm wiped. So, let's get to the good stuff!

1) Three guys got kicked out of Saudi Arabia for being too good looking. Yes, that happened.

2) A cat dressed as a shark riding a Roomba chasing a duckling. I ABSOLUTELY LOVE PEOPLE WHO HAVE TOO MUCH TIME ON THEIR HANDS!!

3) My cat is a dick, but, aren't they all?

4) It's the little things that matter when you're already having a shitty day.

5) English. Taught by bunnies.

Have a great weekend!

Happy Friday: Note To Self

Note To Self

OK, girl, you're too old for this crap. Stop it! Food and eating are not magical mysteries to you.

Stop eating breakfast hours after you wake up!

And, stop eating weird crap like onion rings and lasagna for lunch!

Today's lunch gave you indigestion, are you happy with that? OF COURSE YOU AREN'T! So, you know, get your shit together, already!

Alright, it's internet awesome time. Let's go!

1) I wrote about solo travel this week. Here are some more tips and stories from around the web.

2) I've gone podcast crazy over here, and Podcast Gallery can help you find, listen to and save the ones you want.

3) If you're already itching for summer to get here, why not try out this 140 song Summer Music Playlist assembled by Reddit users to take yourself away?

4) Looking for a job or new career path? Read How To Pick A Career You'll Like.

5) If you want to store sensitive files in the cloud but are worried about keeping those things private, here's a guide to free, and easy to use, encryption software.

Happy Friday! What Have I Done For Me, Lately?

I know Easter's been over for almost a week, but this video of a baby bunny eating and cleaning its face is AWESOME.


It occurred to me that since we're in the fourth month of the year, I should probably take a look back at the massive list of goals I set for myself in January and see how I'm doing. What have I managed so far?

Accomplishments: Jan-April 2013

1) I'm making $ writing again!
2) I tried a podcast!
3) I check my professional email daily!
4) I add my blog posts to Twitter & Blogaholic!
5) I've left some food behind at a restaurant!
6) I limit pre-5pm TV watching to two hours daily Mon-Fri!
7) I'm practicing reading faster!
8) I hang out on our deck!
9) I've (almost) mastered winged eyeliner!

OK, so, nine out of 76 items isn't exactly an example of me going gang-busters on my goals, but getting a job was HUGE FOR ME. Plus, I'm sorta counting the things I'd starting doing (like blogging three times a week, making honest work of my creative ideas and working away from home) which I've fallen behind on since my gainful employment.

And, also? I'm trying not to be too hard on myself about not being further along.

I've got time, and I think the best thing to do would be to keep my lists on my desktop so I can have constant reminders of what's important to me this year.

Now, let's move on to some cool internet stuff and remember to tell me: How are your 2013 goals progressing so far?

1) I do love me some Tina Belcher.

2) EW.com thinks they've found the 21 most annoying TV characters of all time. Do you agree?

3) RIP Roger Ebert. Here are 20 of his best movie pans.

4) If you like free music, here are the best places to get it online.

5) Finally, if you need to distress this weekend, there are some apps that can help you.

Have a great weekend, everyone!

Happy Friday: A Creative Realization

Tyne & Wear Archives & Museums

I had an interesting epiphany last night. I was tired and had drug myself to the shower after a long-ish day.

While I was in there my mind started to wander. I was thinking about creativity and what it takes to risk failure or embarrassment in the effort to have your voice heard, and something came to me. This might be something everyone else has known since the beginning of time, but it just occurred to me. And the thought is going a long way to quelling my creative fears.

No matter what you create, someone will hate it.

That's it. Do you see how freeing that is? Whatever creative thing you put into the world: novel, poem, painting, TV show, movie, dress design, textile pattern...SOMEONE WILL HATE IT.

Do you know what this means? It means we have no excuses. There's no point in worrying about how what you need to do (write, paint, design, etc.) will be received. You already know, upfront, that somebody is bound to hate it.

ALL WE HAVE TO DO IS CREATE, TO THE BEST OF OUR ABILITY, AND THINK ABOUT HOW TO LET THE PEOPLE WHO WILL CONNECT WITH OUR WORK FIND IT.

Because, just as sure that there will be people who'll hate what we do, there will also be people who love it, need it and want more of it.

That makes me feel good.

And slightly less scared to try.

Now that we're all relaxed, let's enjoy ourselves a little...

1) Photo buffs should check out the National Geographic tumblr. It's filled with rare pics, most of which have never been published. Much like The New York Times one from a few months ago.

2) Andy Dwyer. So dumb, and yet so awesome.

3) Some animals live a scary, freaky, long-ass time!

4) Want to grow your blog, business or brand without immersing yourself in a lot of expensive classes? Alt Summit can help for much less.

5) I've never read a Stephen King book, but I might read this one.

Enjoy your weekends, everyone!

Happy Friday: Working For The Weekend! When I Will Also Be Working!

But, don't cry for me, Argentina. I still have one story to write for the new job before Monday, but you know what's cool about having a gig where you write stories and send emails from home? You can literally do it any time of the day or night!

I'm taking a break to eat a super-late lunch and blog, since I haven't done it since Monday...Blog, that is. I've been eating just fine, thank you!

I've also been doing pretty good at the job. I'm getting the hang of procedures and using their online ordering system to gather info for stories. I even got two interview responses this week, which I was told likely wouldn't happen so soon. Score!

I hope you've all had a lovely week, as well. I'll be catching up on your blogs this weekend. Now, let's see what's happening online.


1) 38 fascinating maps that detail everything from what the world's population would look like if it were concentrated in one city, to every country that ever got invaded by England and the US area codes in which the rapper Ludacris claims to have "hoes".

2) If you need a laugh try giphy. Just scroll over your choice to see a variety of animated gifs.

3) Speaking of gifs, this tumblr uses them to tell a comical New York based life story.

4) All you writers out there should find Writing a Scene in 11 Steps and 60 NaNoWriMo tips useful.

5) For everyone with multiple, hard-to-monitor-them-all email addresses, Mailstrom might be the answer for you.

Whoa. That's all for me. I need to rest up and goof off this weekend. It's nice to have something to step away from on weekends, right?

Happy Friday: Jobbing!

...

So, yesterday was good. HUBS got a snow day at work, and I...

I GOT A FREAKIN' JOB, YOU GUYS!!

I know! I originally applied to this company late last summer, but kept in touch with the hiring manager. She called me yesterday and simply offered me another position. YES!

HUBS and I are cautiously optimistic, since I have been semi-burned before with freelancing, but this will be very good for my self-esteem. I'll be interviewing, writing and still working from home on a part-time basis.

Also, this means that I've been able to cross three things off my professional goal list just this week. I'm making money from writing again, I tried a podcast and I began to make honest work of one of my screenplay ideas this week by actually sitting my ass down and writing the damn thing.

I'M MAKING PROGRESS!

And progress deserves a reward, so let's see what's new!

1) I think I'm finally starting to get the hang of reading faster, thanks to Bill Cosby.

2) How did I just find out about The Fluffington Post? How!?!?

3) Ever wonder how companies like Evernote, Instagram and Twitter make money? Here you go...

4) Daria Morgendorffer has a point.

5) I might be obsessed with funny/cute animal pics.

Happy weekend, everyone!

Happy Friday: 7 Things I'm Bad At That Don't Matter

...

I had a semi-crappy week. As such, I need to remind myself that I'm not actually bad at everything, it just seems that way sometimes. Also, not all of the things I'm bad at are life-destroying. Here's my list of stuff I suck at that doesn't matter in the grand scheme of things.

7 Things I'm Bad At That Don't Matter

1) Brushing my teeth. Of course I'm good at brushing my teeth, technically. I'm just really, really messy at it. The toothpaste foam that forms dribbles down my chin and usually lands on my shirt. I often walk around while I brush and frequently find dried toothpaste spray around the house on mirrors, TVs, counters, tables, walls...You get it. Messy!

2) Reading books/magazines. I subscribe to seven magazines. Most of them sit in un-presentable stacks around the house for WAY longer than a month. I also have a book buying sickness, which I think I've finally kicked, but it's lead me to having a house filled with tomes I've owned for a few years but haven't even cracked the spines on.

3) Checking emails. I have three email accounts: one for family/friends and serious personal business, one for applying for jobs and one for entering contests and other crap. I can go a few days without checking any of them. Then I end up with 700 unread emails and freak the fuck out, do better for a bit and then fall behind again. Oh, well. No one's dying from this one.

4) Skipping dessert. Only happens if I'm sick or so full I might get sick if I inhale one more might. As far as vices go? Not horrible.

5) Waking up early. I fucking hate it. End. Of. Story.

6) Fixing my hair. I have no appreciable skills in this area. I would much rather wear a scarf or hat all day, every day. So, I frequently do.

7) Drinking hooch. One drink and I'm done. And it better basically taste like Kool-Aid, or I'm out. I didn't even start to get a taste for sugary, pansy-assed mixed drinks until about 12 years after I turned 21. I've never been drunk and likely never will be. I can go for several months without having any kind of booze, and I'm totally OK with that.

There's my list. Now? Internet!

1) X-Men Muppets? Yes!

2) Age, dammit! AGE!

3) People who do amazing things only have one different trait from those who don't. Simple as that.

4) Caffrey the cat only has two legs. I love him.

5) This is just fun. Also, it involves cats, so, you know, there's my wheelhouse!

That's all for me. Let me know, what are you bad at that doesn't matter?

Happy Friday! It's OK

As you can see from my posts this week, I've got a shit-ton of stuff planned for this year. Mostly I did pretty well integrating new things in. I worked away from home twice this week, sent a blog query to an entertainment website, dressed better in public and got some preliminary research done on some of my other goals.

I did fall behind today, though, but that's OK, especially since I know why. I've got three things left on the last to-do list I made for this week. One thing I just keep forgetting to do, one thing that will be time consuming and one thing that scares the crap out of me. I'm going to resolve, right now, to take care of the scary thing right away Monday morning. It's going right after peeing and feeding the cats so I can't keep putting it off. Besides, if I get it done early I won't have to think about this particular duty for another week, so that'll be handy.

Now, let's look around online and see what interesting stuff we can find.

1) I've got a new addiction that's making it hard to get work done. Actress/comedian Aisha Tyler has a geeky podcast called girl on guy that is filling my bunny. She talks to various entertainment types about being in the business, motivating yourself and other things a lot of folks (including me) really need to hear.

2) You all seem like smart, capable people. I'm sure you know that using crystal meth is a bad idea. These photos show just how bad an idea that is. It's just pictures of faces, but the destruction is stunning.

3) Many of us enjoy the occasional cocktail. Alie & Georgia are funny ladies who wear cute clothes and show you how to make fun drinks at home.

4) Ever wait in line for what feels like an hour or more only to realize it's been 10 minutes? Here's why the wait seems soooooo looooooonnngggg.

5) Already wavering on your resolutions? These tips might help you make them stick.

That's all for me this Friday. I'm going to think over my week, enjoy the Golden Globes for once and catch up on my reading. Enjoy!

Happy Friday! Making Decisions

I've decided something. But, first, let me tell a little story.

After leaving my birthday lunch with TC in 2010, I was walking to my car when a man who appeared to be homeless asked me for change. I was feeling pretty good in general, so I gave him a five dollar bill. It was all the cash I had on me and, honestly, we didn't have much in the bank that wasn't committed to bills or other must haves. I figured, though, that I was still likely much better off than him, so I gave the money freely.

As I drove home I thought about our overwhelming financial responsibilities and started to worry that I should have said no, but tried not to let the feeling take down my mood. I pulled up to the house before long and checked the mail. There was an envelope addressed to me from Quik Trip. I got in and opened it to reveal a $5 gas card. I had, in the span of half an hour, completely gotten back what I'd put into the world.

Even realizing as I do that karma, good will or whatever you'd like to call this generally takes a lot longer to circle its way back to us, it made me realize something.

I've spend the bulk of my life waiting for good things to happen to me.

And, I'm tired of it. Mostly because it doesn't work. If it did life would be too easy and none of us would ever get off our asses to create something new, helpful, interesting or exciting.

Also, I'm tired of it because a life spent waiting is a life wasted. I am living proof of that. When I've tried; when I've stopped the waiting and started doing in the face of hope, interesting things have happened to me. Things that made me happy and feel like I was living.

That's what I want more of: more living in my life.

Here's what I'm going to do, I'm going to make two lists this weekend. One with 38 personal things I want to accomplish and the other with 38 professional things I want to accomplish. I'll publish the lists next week.

Then, I'll get busy living.

There. I feel good about this. Let's look around online now and keep things from getting too serious!

1) "Inspiration is for amateurs-the rest of us just show up and get to work." Special thanks to Chuck Close for helping me make my decision.

2) It's still resolution time. Here are what some famous people wanted from their lives in new years gone by.

3) I'm a slow reader. I like to really feel the words in my mind and create the fullest picture possible in my mind's eye. I also want to read more, which would mean reading faster so that it doesn't take up all my time. Maybe this can help.

4) Looking to do even more stuff without leaving the comfort of your home? Mashable has a list of things you might not know you can do online.

5) Last, but not least, I introduce you to the puking robot. Ain't science interesting?

(Not Really) Happy Friday: Pleasant Distractions

Well, just when you thought today was going to be no shittier than a normal day...I've spent a significant amount of time watching comedies (The Five Year Engagement), Christmas movies (Desperately Seeking Santa) and old TV shows (Highlander) just to get away from the news.

If you're a worrier or a depressive or a cynic, it can be difficult to listen to breaking news like we got today without going a little nutty, even if you don't know anyone directly involved. So, my prayers go out to everyone in Connecticut and let's get ourselves to an extra long list of internet goodies. Be well, friends.

1)Christmas is around the corner. If you ever wonder what the super rich give each other, Hello Giggles has an idea. The $52,000 playhouse might be my favorite. And by favorite I mean most insane waste of cash ever.

2) Kitten dance party, anyone? I think we need it!

3) If it weren't for the relatively small size of these animals/insects, humanity would be in for a world of freaky ass hurt.

4) Lions and tigers are big enough to hurt people. These zoo videos show why we need so much unbreakable glass between us and the beasts.

5) Frogs are people, too.



6) Still doing your holiday shopping but wondering what's appropriate to spend on certain people in your life? What Should I Spend is here to help!

7) Rap music has never been funnier.

8) Holiday shopping for a lot of guys? This list of gift ideas won't steer you wrong.

9) Behold the tranquil beauty of these 10 baths with amazing views, and, if you're lucky, plan a trip.

10) Finally, here's links to 14 holiday films you can watch online.

That's all for now. Go enjoy the weekend!

Happy Friday! Getting On With It

I don't know where you're reading from, but I plan to spend my weekend enjoying our unreasonably warm weather. Right after I share some cool webtastic sights, that is!

1) Anyone remember '90s teen show Boy Meets World? That show hosted some now well-known folks before they hit it big.

2) Did you know that you can use your hand to properly portion your meals?

3) If you need a reminder to do your kegels, these panties might help!

4) I'm now even more glad that I've never needed a urinal.

5) Wanna watch Sesame Street parody Mad Men and more? Now you can!

Enjoy the weekend, everyone!

Happy Friday! Party Time!

I have a good feeling about this weekend. Why? Well, I've gotten a good amount of stuff done this week, so I don't feel like I waisted my time. We have a bit of fun money to work with, and...And? My birthday is on Monday and we'll actually be able to celebrate a bit!

In three days I'll be two years away from 40, people. I'd be lying if I said the idea of that isn't fucking with my mind, but I'm trying. Trying to do better and move ahead so that 10 years from now I don't find myself dreading 50. I want to look forward to each year. Who doesn't?

Enough seriousness! Here's what I found online this week.

1) If any of you writers are doing NaNoWriMo, Galley Cat and Writer's Digest have a host of tips for you.

2) Most of us can use a self-esteem boost from time to time. Here are 50 ways to upgrade yours.

3) Want to eat better? Dr. Oz likes all these foods, and this is a list of foods that aren't as bad as we thought.

4) I can't stop talking about mustaches!

5) Last, but not least, this video-filled list of cats freaking out should send you off with a good laugh.

That's all for me folks. Have a great weekend!

Happy Friday! Rest Is A Good Thing

Well, peeps, I'm wiped. I had a big project due Tuesday and it wore me out. I meant to take an hour nap today and ended up sleeping for three.

I'm also having car trouble. I can't get it to start without jumping it, and since the battery is new as of last month, the fear that something major is wrong with it is eating away at me a little. I don't know why...Yes, I do. Lila is the first car I ever bought and I own her outright. She's actually the only thing I fully own that's worth any kind of money. And, considering that she's 15 years old, that's not saying much.

Even though I've been without a car before (in college, for a year after college when neither my mom nor I had a vehicle), I already miss the freedom and being able to get up and go whenever I want.

Oh, well. Such is life, right? Now! Let's see what I found online this week.

1) Did you know that there's now an Oprah channel on Huff Post?

2) Speaking of Oprah, many would consider a love of Oprah related things un-manly. If you need to get your masculine groove back on, The Art Of Manliness is here for you.

3) And, what's more manly than facial hair? The American Mustache Institute has a handy guide to mustache styles. While you're at it? Check out Beard Team USA 2012. Those dudes are no joke...

4) Looking for a new job? Here are 9 things you shouldn't say on your resume, along with a body language guide to tell you if you're tanking the interview.

5) If you're still looking for a way to help Hurricane Sandy relief, Techlicious has a full list of options.

That's all for me, folks. I'll be catching up on your blogs this weekend. Enjoy!

Happy Friday! Oh, The Languor...

Ever since HUBS went back to work I've gotten a schedule down that I'll need to break soon. I wake up, exercise (good), make breakfast (great) and then spend the day watching movies (not so great). It's such a routine now, that if I try not watching movies, I feel antsy.

I know. This is avoidance. I have lots of things I need to get to work on. After six weeks of taking care of HUBS, I'm behind on a lot of stuff. But, for some reason, losing myself and my cares in film after film feels...Better.

On the upside, I have seen some good movies (Mancora, Adrift, Undertow, Brokeback Mountain, Leaving, In A Day, A French Gigolo...All available on Netflix instant, by the way.) The downside, of course, is that I'm in the house neglecting real world responsibilities.

Monday, Lordy, I swear, Monday I'm doing better. Now, shall we look around online?

1) I know Halloween is over, but did you realize that there are several penis-themed costumes?

2) I've been carrying one of these safety keychains on my morning walks around my (tad sketchy) neighborhood. Ladies, you can be safe and stylish!

3) How did these happen? How!?

4) Did you know that there are giant Polaroid cameras that anyone can pay to use?

5) If you like historical movies, Lincoln will be a good bet when it comes out next weekend. HUBS and I saw a pre-screening last week and were pretty impressed.



Enjoy the weekend!

Happy Friday! Fall & Such

Ah, friends! We're firmly fixed in fall and working our way steadily toward that Halloweenie time of year...Which I couldn't care less about. Really. I don't like being scared, I haven't worn a costume in decades and we never get Trick or Treaters, so I don't even hand out candy (and haven't since my teenage years). It'll be a good night to stay at home and read, as far as I'm concerned.

Not being a spoiled sport, though, I've got some Halloween themed links for you, so let's get to it!

1) Want to see a galaxy being born? It'll only take a little over two minutes!

2) TIME has put out their list of the 25 best blogs of 2012.

3) Family photos could not get more awkward. Just in time for Halloween foolishness!

4) Also Halloween related? Sexy cartoon and Sesame Street characters. Elmo just can't stop crying, y'all.

5) Finally, if you want to boost your creativity, you might want to get a cat. Plus, boredom might be good for you.

That's all for me. Have a great weekend!

Happy Friday: Yes!

Finally! HUBS feels better, y'all! Monday night he was in excrutiating-almost-crying pain for a couple of hours, and then...Calm. Sudden, blissful calm. The pain isn't gone, but he's now able to sit for an hour, before he only had ten minutes in a chair until he needed to lay down. He can sit long enough to drive himself to work or play video games on his computer. He's almost like a normal person again, and I am so, so, sososo glad!

That is the best thing that happened this week. Now? Let's look around online...

1) Creative? A new study says you're probably kinda crazy, too.

2) Having trouble staying productive? Try napping.

3) Dammit Kathie Lee Gifford! Stop dropping puppies!

4) If you've ever wondered what atrocious names classmates are teasing your kids with, Babynamer can help you out. No one ever used Ada Potato on me. But I got "Yo, Adrienne!" all the time. Had to stop talking to a boy over it. Yes I did.

5) The Awl has a great list of 21 Lies Writers Tell Themselves.