Monday, November 26, 2018

Music Monday : Topic Unknown

After finishing the personally imposed alphabet challenge I am not really sure what to select as an inspiration for picking songs. I could go back to going by genre, or I could just pick it based on how I feel. But I don't know right now.

The holidays are coming and that has me a bit worried but hey, they'll end soon enough.

The Odd Couple - Friendship

Ruby Gloom - Theme Song

Chameleon Circuit - Teenage Rebel

Emerald Rose - Chocolate Frog

Ministry of Magic - Marauder's Map

Wednesday, November 21, 2018

Craft Swaps and Planning

I know that for a few months I haven't been as active here. I've been a bit preoccupied with working and sleeping. It's not an excuse I know. But I do have to sleep at some point. I know I have mentioned craft swaps before. I really do enjoy doing them, and they let me try to be part of something. Plus I don't have to worry about if I've already made it for them. (Not that I've been making much for people close to me in a while... that's a bit of a complicated thing)

I recently completed two swaps that were with groups. One was the #pumpkineverythingswap2018, the other was #myfavhalloweenmovieswap. I had a lot of fun working on the packages that I sent out. I also really enjoyed the packages that I received as well.

I'm going to post pictures of both my incoming packages and outgoing. It lets people have a chance to enjoy the swaps as much as I have. I'm always worried my partners will be disappointed in their packages, which is why often I try to make sure there are a good number of extras included. If you check the gallery you can see some of the packages I've sent out in the past.

I'm currently working on two private swap packages, as well as helping my boyfriend create his package for the critter craft swap c1.1 round. I'll probably post about these packages later on this month as I get them closer to completed.

But yeah, for now. I'm just tired. So I'll post the pictures soon. I have to figure out how to get them on to the blog from my phone.

Thursday, November 15, 2018

Perfume Testing or That Smells Interesting

I now that I haven't been talking much about what I've been up to. But I have a good excuse. I was working my seasonal job on top of my regular job since mid august. So I haven't really had a lot of time to write. Plus I did disconnect the internet in the apartment. But that's a story for another day. Today I want to tell you a little bit about the  perfumes I've been testing out.

There are a lot of perfumeries out there. That is one thing that I have found is a big huge fact. Each shop is different, while they do have similarities at times. But each one has a unique variety they offer, which has enabled them to build a fan base.

BookPourri
I've already written about this shop, so I don't see a reason to delve too far into it today. But I am quite fond of BookPourri already. I look forward to seeing what other new scents she comes up with in the future.

Icatherati
The bottles are labeled beautifully making it easy to know what you're about to test. But I am still not sure how I feel about them. My favorite of the group I've been testing so far is Woodland Birthday. At the end of the day it had a light vanilla cake and pine like scent on me although I cannot recall if that was the intended result.

The Green Thistle
I fell in love with the Brighid scent. I chose Brighid and Cleopatra as my scents to test when I ordered. Cleo is a bit more spicy than I think I can wear. But I have been told to test things more than once in order to

Sugar Milk!
I only have one tester from this shop, which is different from the others because it is like a miniature atomizer. This is both good and bad because I don't have to worry about spilling it all over. But I feel like the spray bottle uses more of the scent than if it was a wand bottle.

Andromeda's Curse
I ordered a few sample sets from this shop and loved how sweet the sweets were. I am looking forward to adding more from their catalog to my collection, although I am not sure I am brave enough to get a full bottle as that's a much bigger commitment. I'm not very good at committing to anything lately. I change things too fast.

Quill & Ink Alchemical Co.
These samples didn't have wands in them so they were a little more difficult to deal with. While the scent descriptors made the testers I selected seem appropriate for me, they didn't test the same. I'll try them again later on.

Aziza World
I ordered full sample collections of both the male and female variety from this shop to test. So it was a bit of a scent overload. I'm still not sure on what I got into here. It has been sat on the back-burner as I sort through some of the smaller groupings.

Skin Like Butter
I ordered 25 different scent samples from this shop and was actually quite surprised. While there were some scents that didn't work for me, the number of scents that would was far higher. One of the winners was definitely Waffle Cone though. Very sweet and... summery.

Salmonberry Dreams
I ordered the set of all the scent memories. They are intriguing and varied. Included with the samples is a small booklet describing what the scent invokes and represents, giving more depth to each scent and meaning. I am not sure that the whole line works for me. But I love her Pilot Bread scent. (go figure. another food scent)

Black Phoenix Alchemy Lab
This is probably the most well known name on the list. Or at least the most common one to be seen on my Facebook feed. They are popular. While I do not have a lot of samples of their scents, fromt he ones I do, as well as the pleasure I've had in smelling their work on others, I find this one enjoyable.

Akima Botanicals
I only have a couple samples from this shop. I think I got them from someone else and I have no idea what their catalog actually looks like.

Valley of Field Herbals is The Way of the Gypsy
I have a number of scents from this shop and  have had a lot of compliments on a number of them. I'm generally interested in the foodie or gourmand scents (Hah I have learned something about this as I've been going along). I tend to wear the Cranberry Chutney scent frequently, and people like to say that it smells like candy.

The Handmaiden's Garden
This shop is one that I purchase from when we got tot he renaissance fair at Sterling.  I love their Irish Stout scent, as it smells cakey and sweet to me. My boyfriend loves their Beggar's Blend. Actually, we both do. It smells differently on both of us. But the leather note is noticeable whether it's on him or me.

I am sure that I'll be trying a few other shops in the near future. In fact, I have an order out right now for some from another different shop. I am looking forward to the new test round, although to be honest I hope I managed to avoid anything that will be too green. The green ones don't seem to agree with me.

Have you got a favorite perfume shop? What kind of scents do you like?

Monday, November 12, 2018

Music Monday : still here

I know that of late we have been a bit wishy washy as far as posting on a regular basis. It's been a work in progress this year. I have to say that I am proud to have finished the alphabet challenge I gave myself. Even if it was a bit silly.

November is here though, and with that being said, Holidays are creeping closer. This is neither good nor bad. It is just a fact. But I don't know how I want to go about dealing with this information. Mainly because there isn't a lot to be said.

I don't have kids personally. So I don't have much to talk about when it comes to toys, or what not that may be important to many.

I guess I'm feeling a little bit blue.

But that's ok. Today is Monday, and technically I don't have work because it is a Holiday. But I'm going to put some time in doing other things.

The music for today was a bit hard to pick. I've sat here poking around in my brain and not really come up with a direction that I wanted to go in. So... yeah.


Three Dog Night : Joy To The World


4 Non Blondes : What's Up


Earth, Wind, & Fire : Sing a Song


Peter Paul & Mary : I dig Rock n Roll Music


Bobby Vee : Rubber Ball

Wednesday, October 24, 2018

Just because I'm feeling Brave

I know a lot of people are into the Lularoe leggings now. and i have to admit I like them too. With that said, I'm posting this in case anyone has the pairs I'm looking for in their custody and wouldn't mind passing them along in my direction.

Below you can see the print samples of the leggings that I'm looking for. I would need them in a size TC or TC2 (I prefer the TC2 only because they're a little bigger and it is more comfy and not sticking to me like a second skin)

The images are not mine, and as far as I know the sales from the images shown were all completed and finished. Making the leggings unavailable because they already have homes.

It's worth a shot right? q.q











Monday, October 22, 2018

Music Monday : Z

I was so close to having the alphabet finished in time to have a halloween special. But I guess we can't have everything we want.

On the bright side we have finally reached the letter Z, and I feel slightly accomplished. It might not mean anything to you, but to me, well It feels wonderful to have completed a self imposed challenge. Even if it is a bit of a silly one.

The word of the week is :

zymurgy :  branch of chemistry dealing with brewing and distilling

Not sure where you will have a chance to use that word, but I chose it because of the Oktoberfest advertising I've seen all over.

Ok we've finally made it to Z!  One of the song's I selected makes me think of Animal singing from the Muppets. But I hope You've enjoyed our alphabet challenge.

Golly I'm writing in circles tonight, I'm sorry. Just a bit tired.

Zombie Hunter - We're Never Going To Find Them

Zwei - Movie Star

Zendaya - Replay

ZombieSuckers - Graveyard A Go Go

Zorch - We All Die Young

Monday, October 15, 2018

Music Monday : Y

Y is actually a really hard letter to find music for.  Yes I'm back on the ball, almost. I'm trying at least. I know todays post is going to be going up a bit late. But that's going to happen now and then. And if you've been with is for a while you know that I almost always pop back up again. It just takes me a bit to re organize.

The word of the week is :

yenta : gossip or busybody

I know it may seem like a weird word. But with the way my week has gone so far (and it IS only Monday)I really think it is an appropriate word. Anyways, here's the music for the week, inspired by and brought to you by artists of the letter Y.

Your Favorite Martian - Club Villain

Yusuf - My People

The Young Friends - I won't Break Your Heart

Yuna - Live Your Life

The Yardbirds - Got Love if You Want It

Thursday, October 11, 2018

Stretched a bit Thin

There's been a lot of things going on of late, one of which is that there is no internet at my home currently. I've yet to decide on a new provider and to be honest I'm not in a hurry to do so. It was a bit expensive, and compared to how much use I actually made of my computer in the past few months I can't really justify the bill that I was paying.

On the other hand I've been participating in a couple of craft swaps, but I won't be able to ship them out on time because of the way my work schedule is currently. I feel bad about that. But I've only got so much time in a day, and when you compare the times that the post office is open to the hours I'm at work currently for the next few days it's dismal. I am at work longer than they are open (or in transit to work blah)

I'm kinda pleased with my packages though, even though I'm a little worried as to if my partners will be as happy with them. But there is only so much that I can do.

My youngest brother got married this past friday. He and his new wife are actually in florida for their honeymoon. I was a bit worried when people said there was a hurricane coming through there.

Work is work. My feet hurt a lot, and I feel like there is a lot that I'm falling behind on because I let the internet go at home. It's hard to keep up with the newest trends and some of the less caustic news without it. But in a way it is a double edged sword. I'm not seeing as much of the bad news which should be helping me to feel less stressed.

but it is not.

anyway. i'm sorry i haven't been writing much and i will be trying to get things sorted soon. I'm just stretched really thin right now.

Wednesday, October 3, 2018

What's on Screen? Hurricane Bianca

I haven't really been doing as many book or movie reviews because I haven't had the time (or ability) to watch a movie or read a book lately. I've been very busy and my eyes haven't liked to look at my computer or tv screen. So needless to say for a while yet movie theatres are going to be out too.

But I did finally get to watch a movie I've been wanting to watch since a good friend mentioned it to me. Hurricane Bianca.


To be perfectly honest I wasn't sure what to expect when the movie started. But I will say that after having seen the whole thing, I'm looking forward to watching the sequel when I have a chance. Currently I'm not sure when that will be. But I do know that looking forward to more of a similar kind, means I enjoyed it.

Not suitable for younger children due to language. Teens could watch it I think, though as with many films with various content, parental discretion is advised. I found it enjoyable. But I'm an adult, and I have my own set of standards for films.


Monday, October 1, 2018

Music Monday : X

I hate to say it, but for my personal collection X is a rather slim letter. Maybe some of you know some bands starting with an X that I don't? Feel free to leave some recommendations if you feel so inclined. Because I had a hard time prising these gems out of my library.

The letter of the day as you have guessed by now is X. So let's see what the word of the week is.

Xenomania : inordinate attachment to foreign thing

I'm not sure if any of you will have a chance to use this word during your daily lives. But right now.. I feel like it is an interesting word to throw out there. I hope you have a magical week.

Xandria - Ravenheart

X Ambassadors - Nervous

XP8 - Muv Your Dolly

XV - Best Wishes

Wednesday, September 19, 2018

Artist Spotlight : BookPourri

I'm really enjoying this new theme for my writing. It's actually a lot of fun to try new perfume scents. This week we're going to be looking at another etsy shop called BookPourri.



I ordered two different sample styles from BookPourri. I'm going to be telling you about both today. Each one has its benefits, and each has a unique look.

The first style of sample I ordered from the shop came in a lovely silver packet. You get your choice of 6 scents to test this way. These are ideal for travel use, and I believe they are small enough they could be stored in travel luggage easily. In the photo below you can see an example of one of my packets on the left. What I hadn't thought through when ordering the foil samples, was that they're a single use sample. Which for one person testing it for a day is good, but I've been trying to make sure I can share some of my testing experience with my friends, so this just wasn't enough.

The scents I selected in my first order were: Fairy Godmother, Loki, Time Lord, Poisoned Apple, Siren's Song, and Mr Darcy. By joining their VIP club, I also received a sample of Elizabeth Bennet. As you can tell each sample is based on a character or part of a story. They each are unique, and while some may share a scent note or two, they're very diverse.

I will admit to having selected Fairy Godmother based on the name rather than the note list. A choice I may not repeat in the future. Mainly because it ended up being way too floral for me. But I wanted to try it regardless because it would have been a humorous conversation to have with someone. Loki did turn out to be a bit more masculine than I expected, but the tonka bean note sold it for me.

So the positive with this sample size, is that it is ideal for travel. It is also a good idea for using as a gift for a shower or a special event if you find a scent that you like. It makes it so your attendees won't have to commit to the scent, and the labels are absolutely charming. Also great for keeping in your purse for a fresh start if you're not sure about carrying a larger bottle.


Now the example on the right, is the perfume oil imp. These impressed me immensely because they arrived individually packaged like miniature works of art. I enjoyed getting to see each one in this presentation style. Imps are easier to test with multiple people, because there is more of the scent inside, and it also enables you to test it on multiple days, or to wear it a few times to see how it agrees with you. I was also impressed that each imp I received has a different colored top. Which is a new experience for me.

These were my second order, in which I ordered some of the same scents, but a different one as well. You get 5 samples at this level, and I have to say I'm tempted to order some in this style to put into gift baskets for the bazaar at my moms church. I ordered Loki, Butterbeer, Poisoned Apple, Siren's Song, and Alice in Wonderland in this format. Impressed with the packaging I've already squirreled away Loki to hide in my boyfriends holiday stocking.

All in all I've had a positive experience with my purchases from this shop. Everything shipped in a swift manner, and arrived packaged in a manner appropriate for the contents. I'm looking forward to future purchases, because they're developing a breakfast scent that I'm already hoping to get. Yeah... I really like food scents. You'll probably notice that as these perfume testing posts continue into the future.

This shop even has a perfume sample club! You can sign up to receive a free perfume sample in the mail. www.tinyurl.com/bookpourriclub This is a good way to get into their email update list, because there is always something new. Hand lotions are one of the newest additions, and I am quite excited about them. They're also developing some new scents based on the Lord of the Rings books, I'm excited about those.

Monday, September 17, 2018

Music Monday : W

We've almost finished the alphabet! And If I stay on track, I may even get to do a special post for Halloween! Though, I could do one anyway and just... push back whatever letters I have neglected by then. But hey, who knows right?

Todays music selections are brought to you by the letter W, and the word wyrd. Please see the definition below.

wyrd : the personification of fate or destiny

An example of wyrd, would be the three fates. They often tell destinies or various futures, giving warnings or encouragement. This gets them referred to as the Wyrd Sisters in some stories.

There ya go, your word of the week, and how about our five song choices. I got to include one of my personal favorites this week, can you guess which one that is?

Willa Ford - Haunted Heart

The Wreckers - Crazy People

Wild Orchid - Our Lips Are Sealed

The Wallflowers - God Don't Make Lonely Girls

Within Temptation - Stand My Ground

Friday, September 14, 2018

Artist Spotlight : Skin Like Butter

So I've been trying some new things. Specifically I've become curious about different oil perfumes. I have been slow to gain traction as far as purchases, but not too long ago, I did a mass purchase or samples from a variety of shops, and since I haven't been writing about much, I thought I would do a spotlight or two based on my purchases.

So the first purchase I want to share was from an etsy shop called Skin Like Butter. In fact most of the purchases I will be sharing in the near future come from etsy. Skin Like Butter offers both retail and wholesale bath and body products. These include (but are not limited to) a variety of body lotions, scrubs, body washes, bath salts, and various perfume oils.

I'm not really very good at girl stuff, but a good friend of mine introduced me to the concept of perfume imps. They are smaller testing tubes of perfumes or perfume oils that enable you to try something without being committed to a whole bottle. Some perfume oils get very expensive fast. But the pricing in this shop is reasonable in my opinion. A bottle of oil perfume goes a very long way easily. But I went with a sample set.

So first things first, when a shop has 138 different scents (and probably more in the near future) to pick from, it can seem very daunting to pick a small number to order samples of. So, with that in mind I selected their pick 25 option. This allowed me to pick around 1/5th of their library to test, which has been a daunting task.

I will be honest I haven't even gotten half way through the scents I selected, but I am so far enjoying the process of wearing different ones to find some that I like enough to get in a full size. You can find the list of scents I selected at the bottom of this post in a list, with a few notes next to the scents I have thoughts on already.


Each imp is labeled individually, making it easy to know what scent you're looking at. It also helps to give you an idea what the perfume in the tester may smell like. But yeah, I've been having some fun testing perfumes and looking for a scent that I can add to my daily life that people will be able to relate to me. But I know that it's a process. My Grandmother liked rose perfume, while my Aunt wore White Diamonds. It's all a matter of preference, but a scent can leave behind memories so, there's that.

I may or may not update the scent list below with reactions to others as I try them, but for now these are the scents I'm currently testing from Skin Like Butter. I have a couple so far that I'm thinking to order larger bottles of, hopefully before they leave the collection.

Have you ordered from them before? Do you have a favorite scent? Let me know, because this is a fun learning experience.

Honey
White Pumpkin- absolutely adore this scent. This was the first one from the batch I tested for a day. 
Peppermint
Caramel Apple - very sweet, but not in a bad way.
Passion Fruit
Waffle Cone - this one got a great reaction from others. Again, a sweet scent.
Raspberry Vanilla
Milk
Watermelon
Marshmallow
Tobacco
Grapefruit Sorbet- this one turned out to not be one for me. But I know someone that may like it.
Lemon Cupcake
Chocolate Mint
Pina Colada
Pumpkin
Peppercorn & Port
Black Currant Cassis
Red Currant
Banana Walnut Cake
Lime Sorbet
Sugar
Orange Vannila
Acai Berry
Suede

Monday, September 10, 2018

Music Monday : V

Today is another Monday, and we have almost reached the end of the alphabet challenge. I know that there were a few silent weeks where I didn't write at all, and I am sorry about that, but... I have had a lot going on I am hoping to have better solutions than dead air in the near future. But it all depends on what the doctors tell me. Yeah I know i sound like a broken record, but my health has finally been put on a...front burner so to speak. And I would really like to be feeling better sooner rather than later.

The letter of the week is V! It's an odd letter and was a little harder to find artists in my personal library that started with V. But I did manage it, and the word of the week is also a V. Of course.

Venery : pursuit of sexual gratification; hunting; pursuit of game

Well that is an odd word I suppose. But I thought it may be something of interest as with fall coming many people will be starting to go out hunting. Deer will be in season soon enough, and we'll have to watch for them on the road.

Here's hoping you have a great week and that there is something wonderful waiting for you at the end of it.

The Veronicas - Take Me On The Floor

Vanessa Hudgins - Sneakernight

Van Stephenson - Modern Day Delilah

Verticle Horizon - Best I've Ever Had

Vanessa Carlton - Ordinary Day

Wednesday, September 5, 2018

What's on Screen?: The 10th Kingdom

We all have movies that we watch multiple times for a variety of reasons. Like comfort food they become familiar, letting us enjoy them on various levels. The 10th kingdom is like that for me.



This isn't a short movie. It was originally aired as a multi part miniseries on television. Which may lead some of you to think it would be a bit cheesy. Some parts are. But it is still something that I enjoy watching. I've seen it enough that I don't have to watch the screen to enjoy it. I have happy memories of watching it.

They go through a variety of fairy tale and nursery rhyme themed areas, that will bring happiness and laughter even to children based on the types of scenarios presented. And while some things seem a little dated now, it is still highly enjoyable.

Anyway, ja... not a lot to say. Just... wanted you to know I am trying. Still trying. Things are going back to normal soon...Maybe? I have another doctors appointment soon. So... I'll let you know.


Monday, September 3, 2018

Music Monday : U

I'm so excited because the kids go back to school in our district this week. I'm so happy about this. It may not mean anything for most people, and technically because I personally don't have a child, it may seem weird. But it will be nice to go back to the evening schedule.

today's music choices are brought to you by the letter U. Which also means we need a word of he day that is fun and something that might be interesting to tell a child about.

So we have chosen a funny sounding word, uranoscopy.

uranoscopy : star-watching

I don't think I've met anyone who can say they don't enjoy star watching and gazing every now and then. After all the nights will be getting longer here in the northern hemisphere soon, so we will have crisp fall air, and hopefully clear skies to enjoy the stars.

Anyway here's some music choices to help you enjoy your week, brought to you by the letter U.

Uncle Kracker - Smile

U2 - With or Without You

Uriah Heep - Sympathy

Unwoman - Billie Jean

Unwritten Rulz - Broken Hero

Wednesday, August 29, 2018

Artist Spotlight : Salad Days Pins

Today I'm going to tell you about a pin designer! I know that it's been a while since I did an artist spotlight, and I apologize if you've been missing them. But I do have a lot of health issues I have been dealing with. But this isn't about me, it's about an artist!

I first ran into Salad Days pins pieces on etsy and instagram. Where I found their unique interpretations of characters from literature and art amazing. I love how much detail they manage to pack into each of their designs without making it seem over the top.


The pins that I have in my collection currently from this maker though are the sephora inspired pins. the picture above doesn't do the pins any justice though.

Each pin features a double tie pin clasp on the back, as well as a raised shop signature. These details make the pins more likely to stay put, as well as easy to identify as her work. The backer card features all the contact information on the back in case you purchased the pin for gifting, and they are gorgeous.

People who do a lot of makeup testing would enjoy this specific set, or perhaps even people that do makeup or hair for a living. The tiny details are something that can add depth to an outfit.

Personally I am hoping to get some of the goddess pins in the not too distant future though. If you'e curious about them check them out on etsy. The pins are absolutely stunning and you won't regret taking a few minutes to explore the various history and art inspired pieces available in their shop.

I know this is a shorter spotlight, but I just wanted to share it with you. Hope you're having a great week, and I look forward to sharing more fun things with you in the near future.


Monday, August 27, 2018

Music Monday : T

There has been a bit of a delay and break up on when I've been posting. I am sorry about that, but to be honest I am having trouble focusing on the screen of my laptop. Not that anyone is paying that much attention.

In any case, there are only 7 days left in the alphabet challenge I gave myself, and If I can manage to finish it before the end of this year I will be quite happy with myself.

But what is the word of the week?

tragomaschalia : smelly armpits

The word itself is kind of funny, and if it had managed to be issued earlier int he summer I bet many of us would have had a chance to use it out in the wild. But for now, let us be content with the idea that summer ends soon and the kids will be headed back into school soon. Yay?

Timbuk 3 - The Future's So Bright, I Gotta Wear Shades

Tatu - all the things she said

T Mills - Stupid Boy

Third Eye Blind - Semi Charmed Life

Trio - Da Da Da

Monday, August 6, 2018

Music Monday : S

Sometimes it really is hard to pick up the pace again and get back to the keyboard. Summer has been a little difficult to be honest. But I do know that things are going to be improving soon. Because fall is coming. ^_^

The word of the day is an odd one, but I know a few people that have had the pleasure of experiencing.

somniloquence : talking in one's sleep

I didn't even know there was a designated word for it. So there we go, the word of the week is somniloquence. I hope you have a chance to use it in everyday conversation to baffle your friends, and just make them think you've been dusting off your vocabulary. Have a great week and we'll be back on track soon (hopefully). I'm really trying.

Scissor Sisters - I Don't Feel Like Dancing

Strawberry Alarm Clock - Incense and Peppermints

Sugar Hill Gang - Apache(Jump On It)

Suzy Bogguss - Hey Cinderella

Shawn Colvin - Sunny Came Home

Thursday, August 2, 2018

Personal Update

I know that I haven't been posting a lot like I had been. But I'm going to be working very hard on the blog today and tomorrow to get the next few weeks cleared up and patched up so that I feel a bit better about this.

I have some new things on the burners currently. I'm participating in the #siruisanimationswap as well as the #pumpkineverythingswap. I'm really excited about those. I will also be opening the #crittercraftswapC1.1 soon. I just haven't had the time to finish cleaning everything up for it.

I finished my package for the #subversivecraftswap, but my partner has flaked as far as anyone can tell. Very sad to hear that because I spent almost 40 hours on the one project. I only know this because I listened to Critical role for more than half of that amount of time while I was sewing by hand.



I do have some of my Christmas shopping completed and wrapped, so yay go me!

Health wise, I spent a good portion of Sunday night and Monday hallucinating. I had good intentions of having music Monday up for you all, but it didn't happen. I'm probably going to get the one for next Monday all cooked up for you today.

Anyways I'm ok. I'm just not ok.


Wednesday, July 25, 2018

From the Archive : Cat and Falcon, Part 6

The beat of the earth
Is the pulse of its people
Whether primitive or advanced
The same beat drives them all forward
There is nothing like the heart
The hearts blood of the earth
When it comes to existing.
And it’s those beats
Even and unmeasured
Ever changing yet always the same
They are what drives all forward.

Aurea burst onto the stage in a somersault, and wrapped a paw around the pole causing her form to swing around, getting right into the music. She blinked trying to see out into the audience, but was thankful that the lights were bright, so they prevented her from seeing them. But she could hear sounds of approval as she continued dancing, and she smiled. The announcer winked at her and she dived onto the catwalk hitting her knees and acting more like a cat than she had in years. Then mimicking some of the earlier sales she leaned back and started a string of back flips, careful of course to keep in time to the music. As she continued, she felt more at ease on the stage, and just decided to have fun. And yes, she was having fun.

In the third row Cedric, raised an eyebrow as Aurea stretched on the stage. He turned and looked at Mar, who nodded at him.

“Go ahead kid. Give it a shot; the worst that could happen is someone outbids you. But trust me… The card I gave you should be more than enough to beat anyone here.”

“Ok.” Cedric replied simply, turning back to watch intrigued at the way Aurea seemed to be so confident. Out of everyone that had been on the stage, she didn’t seem to really fit the ‘desperate for a date’ stereotype. This one didn’t belong up on the stage.

In the second row, on the other side of the room, Dillon sat mouth agape.

“My oh my D, that’s your best friend?” Jay said watching her reaction. “I didn’t know that you knew anyone that could move like that…”

“I didn’t know that she could…” Dillon replied shaking her head. “I think we’re going to have to bid to keep her out of the hands of someone who might expect the wrong thing out of her.”

“Sure we will. I think I’ll be bidding for that threesome that I had in mind. I wonder if she’d mind…” Jay braced himself and laughed as Dillon drove her fist into him. “It was only a thought.”

“Keep those thoughts to yourself and get ready to bid. The song is almost over.” Dillon replied as she shivered after Aurea did a cartwheel. The outfit that they’d gotten earlier seemed to cling to her like a second skin, and displayed clearly the fact that she knew what she was doing. Dillon hadn’t even realized that at the store, now she wasn’t sure if what she was feeling was jealousy or fear. Aurea looked good. And by the reactions around the room, everyone was taking note of that. Even Jay had.

The song came to an end and all the house lights went out, and a spotlight flickered on, focusing on the announcer as the crowd applauded uproariously. Aurea had disappeared backstage, where she took a bottle of water one of the stage hands offered her.

“You’ve done this before kid?” The woman asked, looking Aurea over.

“No. I had some good training earlier today though. Plus I paid close attention to the others while they were on stage. Why did I do horribly?” Aurea asked worried, as she took her tail in one paw and wrung it nervously.

The woman laughed and pointed back out on stage where the announcer was waiting for the crowd to quiet down before getting the first bid. “Not at all. I think you did quite the opposite. You may turn out to be the gem this year. The kid they saved for last, you heard about him sure, the one from last year, he didn’t meet expectations. But you my dear have surely exceeded them.”

“Ah.” Aurea grinned happily, and then turned to watch, leaning on the wall sipping the water. “Well, I had no idea how to go about this, so I made it up along the way, mostly.”

“Ah, now that you’ve all quieted down.” The Announcer said looking out over the crowd as the floor lights came back on, showing the audience clearly as he adjusted his tie. “I must say, I’m not sure I want to have you even try top bid on her. I might just take this one home with me.” The crowd erupted in laughter and exclamations. “But I won’t. So, what do we have as a starting bid? Can I get 200?”

“Easily!” A tall blonde said shaking her hair out as she raised her bid card. “I raise it to 500!” She looked around, adjusting her corset as if daring anyone to challenge her.

“500 so quickly!” His eyebrows shot up as he looked around. “Anyone want to challenge that?”

“Pfft. Pocket change.” A Coralitian in a green suit said raising his own card. “1500!”

“1510!” A voice shouted from the back.

“1550!” The blonde spat back without prompting.

“1560!” The same voice called from the back.

Mariel prodded Cedric and he raised his card. “1600!” He shouted. Mar nodded in approval and waited. Realizing now that if he even wanted a chance at winning, he was going to have to be prodded into it.

“1600?” The Announcer inquired. “Anyone going to beat that?”

Dillon stared at Jay, and he raised their card. “1800.”

“Jay!” She hissed. “That’s ALL we have for this! Plus that’s two times what they got for the Coralitian.”

“I know, but the jump is going to cut out any of the small jumpers.” Jay replied rolling his eyes. “And it’s not all we have. I called in reserves as you were watching her slack jaw.”

“Ah.” Dillon nodded, blushing as she settled back into her seat nervously.

“1860.” An Orange Tabby Astute said, raising his card sluggishly.

Aurea looked at the stage hand baffled. “Why are they bidding so high? It took them ages to get that high earlier!”

“Yeah, but no one else gave them as good a show as they did. Not only that, I think they’ve changed the date plan for you.” The stage hand laughed, and patted Aurea on the shoulder. “Remember, everything raised tonight goes to charity.”

“I know. Wait…” She turned. “They changed the date plan?”

Mariel frowned and prodded Cedric. “Take it up another 100 lad.”

Cedric nodded nervously and raised the card again. “1960!”

The announcer looked around shaking his head. “1900?” He waited, and in a few seconds the blonde jumped to her feet.

“2500!” She put her hands on her hips and waited as the room rumbled.

“2800.” Jay retorted getting to his feet. Dillon cringed, and sunk into her seat hoping that Aurea couldn’t see her.

Mar prodded Cedric who nervously got to his feet. “I want you to bid 3500. NOW.” Mar whispered to him.

“3500!” Cedric shouted raising his card yet again.

“3500!” The Announcer said nodding thoughtfully.

“4000!” The Astute said looking over at Cedric a smug expression on his face.

“4010!” The Coralitian interjected.

“4510!” Jay said with a laugh, turning to wink at Dillon.

“6000!” The blonde cut in angrily, her arms crossed under her breasts, as she tapped her foot angrily.
“Hrmm...6000! Is there anyone here that wants to challenge that?”

Mar laughed and nodded at Cedric. “I think we’ve about reached a point. Take 6500!”

Cedric shouted Mars suggestion as loud as he could over the murmuring crowd. “6500!”

The Astute turned and growled at him before raising his card again. “7800!”

“Yeah. They were going to be sending you and your ‘owner’ to a carnival. Now they’re sending you on a full day excursion: museums, bars, all sorts of things.” The stage hand pulled a few curtains back so that only the black one was left. A band was setting up and needed as much room as they could get back behind the announcer.

Aurea blinked and nodded woodenly. “I didn’t realize that those things were pre-determined.”

The woman laughed again. “Didn’t use to be, not originally, but it sure makes things easier that’s for sure.”

“Oh.” Aurea bit her lip and finished off her bottle of water and peered out nervously to see who it was that had bid 7800.

Jay winced and looked at Dillon. “Well love, it’s up to you. I can take it to 8900 now… but you realize if we win… it’s going to be tight as far as anything we want to do for a while.”

Dillon nodded rigidly, looking at the bidders. “Go ahead. I don’t think I trust any of them.”

Jay nodded and turned to the stage. “8900!”

The room seemed to rumble as everyone started talking. That was the highest bid that had ever been brought up in the auction, at least at the space port it was. The Coralitian and the Astute both sat down in their seats. But the blonde, started checking over her notes, and looking at the ‘purchases’ she had made earlier that night.

“8900… is there anyone that wishes to go above 8900?” The announcer looked at the Coralitian and the Astute who both shook their heads.

“9000!” The Blonde shouted victoriously coming to a resolve.

Dillon gasped and grabbed Jays arm. “Oh no… I hope that someone…”

Jay petted Dillon soothingly. “It’s ok. I mean how bad could it be love?”

Dillon just shook her head and frowned at him. “You have no idea…”

Mar scowled and jabbed Cedric in the ribs. “Now finish her! 9500! Bid it.”

Cedric gulped. “9500.” He said quietly.

“Anyone, going to go higher than 9000?” The Announcer looked amazed as he waited as the Blonde started moving closer to the stage, checkbook in hand.

“Louder.” Mar told him jabbing him again. “He obviously didn’t hear you.”

“Anyone?” The room murmured as the Announcer started to count. “going once…”

Cedric looked at Mar, and shook his head.

“Going twice…”

Mar stamped on Cedric’s foot. He yelped and then shouted. “Oi! 9500!”

The Blonde spun around, her eyes as big as saucers. “9500?”

Mar nodded satisfied and grinned. “That’s my boy.”

“9500!” The announcer also blinked. “Anyone care to go above 9500?”

The Blonde turned crimson as she tramped back to her seat. And Cedric shivered as the announcer motioned him forward.

Mar caught his hand. “Sweetie, and just so you know, there’s still 20500 on that there card.”

Cedric blushed and went to hand it back to her. “Oh Mar!!!”

Mar stamped on his foot and refused to take it. “Get up on that stage, you can thank me later, plus I can explain it to you.” She laughed, and winked at him. “Plus I should have told you about that earlier. But this is the only bit of bidding you’ve done tonight that I’ve approved of so…” She laughed and squeezed her dates hand before stomping on Cedric’s foot again.

“9500 it is then!” The Announcer replied having gotten through the final bid procedure as they’d been talking. “Would the holder of bid card number 45 please come to the stage?”

Cedric yelped and hopped on one foot, and leaned over to kiss Mar’s cheek before going up onto the stage.

“What’s your name my boy?” The announcer queried, and laughed as Cedric turned red. “Oh come on. Its alright I don’t bite but after that performance I can’t promise that your date won’t.”

Cedric laughed, and tugged at his shirt collar with one hand. “I’m Cedric…” He paused and added hesitantly, “From the travel port.”

“Ah! That explains why I don’t know you as from around the port. You’re one of those that come and go so much it’s hard to say anything one way or the other, eh?” The audience laughed.

As Cedric stammered his replies to the other questions Dillon prodded Jay. “I don’t think that we have to worry about Aurea if that’s the winner.” She giggled as Jay grinned at her. “Though, I do wonder how they’ll get along seeing how he’s basically being prompted, and he’s still having trouble finding words to say.”

“True dear;” Jay rolled his eyes. “But we all can’t be public speakers or where would you be? Without a job that’s where. You and me both though actually.”

“Oh shush, let’s see what Aurea thinks of him.”

“9500!” Aurea blinked and started backing away, back towards the room they’d all been in before the auction had started.

“Where you going?” The stage hand asked puzzled. “You should feel special; you’ve created a new ‘landmark price’ something people are going to be talking about for a while.”

“Oh I’m just going to get my purse…”

“You don’t need it, now get back out there, they’re calling you out.” The woman laughed as she pushed Aurea gently back in the direction of the stage, gently of course. She couldn’t know what her actions may have helped to set in motion.

Monday, July 23, 2018

Music Monday : R

I really have been falling off the horse with this alphabet challenge. I do apologize about that. But then, I don't really know if anyone has been paying attention to these or not. I do know I have been enjoying the challenge of sorting through my library to find different artists for each letter. So if nothing else that is fun.

The word of the week is RUCTION

Ruction is a disturbance or uproar.

I am unsure if anyone is going to be able to use it in their daily life this week. but if you do have a chance to I'd love to hear how you use it.

In any case have a great week and maybe you'll hear from me again soon.

Ray Stevens - Everything Is Beautiful

Rascall Flats - What Hurts The Most

Red Hot Chili Peppers - I Could Die For You

Reel Big Fish -Take on Me

Ryan Beatty - Hey L.A.

Friday, July 20, 2018

Off the Shelf: Monsters and Villains

Time for something a little lighter to read, though it sounds a little heavy with it's stated goal being "a guide to some of the greatest villains and monsters throughout history." (pg. 7)



Monsters and Villains of the Movies and Literature
Gerrie McCall
96 pgs


Okay, this one was not originally my pick, but a book Sang grabbed at the used bookstore some months back that he then forgot he had.  I found it one night when bored and spent an entertaining hour or two reading through the pages and the facts they had, and now I'm going to share with you!

As far as organization, this book is a solid 10.  The contents are exactly what the titles says it will be, and is even split up under subject headings, start with Monsters from the Movies, then Terror in the Library, which moves to Fairy Tales and Fantasy before winding up with Creatures from Myth.  About every two pages, there is a new monster, leading to about 44 in all (leaving some pages for an intro and an index).  Most of the monsters and villains featured will be at least passingly familiar to anyone who does a lot of reading or movie watching, such as Nosferatu, Mr. Hyde, and Medusa, but the selection also varies to ones that almost everyone has heard of, but has probably put little thought into, such as the flying monkeys from The Wizard of Oz and Rumpelstiltskin, and then to ones that people may have heard of, by may not know the name of, like Imhotep (The Mummy and many movies since) and Grendel (Beowulf).  The book even features the whale, Moby Dick!

Honestly, the book is definitely not a heavy read for an adult, but is still fun.  Each heading features a picture of the villain or monster, with at least four points of interest pointed out and described.  The second page features a short, one-to-two paragraph summary, a map of where in the world the monster or villain will be found, and a short collection of facts.  For an example, on Jason (yes, the Jason of Friday the 13th), one of the points of interest is the machete in his hand, describing it's significance (while I assume most people know, I won't spoil it for those who do not), the paragraph describes some of the various things Jason has gone through in the various movies, as well as his "creation."  Of the facts, I found this one particularly interesting: "Even though Jason is a fictional character, he was awarded MTV's Lifetime Achievement Award in 1992." (pg 29)

Overall, this book is definitely a simple read, but still enjoyable.  I would say fans of monsters of all ages would get some pleasure from it, though I think it's mainly marketed toward the elementary-crowd; older readers might find it better to check it out from the library for a quick read rather than dropping cash on it (though I got it for $2, and I definitely it worth that, and collectors of movie monster memorabilia might find it an interesting addition).  Definitely anyone, male or female, can enjoy this, if nothing else than for the facts, like I did.  Sang picked up a second, related book that I may review later, if it's as good as the first, but it just screamed more Halloween to me, so I'm holding off, for now.

Friday, July 13, 2018

Personal Update

I know I've fallen off the bandwagon of late. But I have my own reasons for that. They may not all be good, but they're not all bad either.

My brothers are engaged, and there have been various to do's concerning that. When I say brothers, I mean 3 out of 5 of them are engaged. The other two are already married. So yay, at least they're all going to have someone. It's good to know that they won't be alone forever.

This past weekend was one of the bridal showers, as well as a family reunion that I had no clue was going on. I wish I had known that it was scheduled because I would have packed extra clothes instead of having to wear a dress all day. The bridal shower went well though, and I think everyone enjoyed themselves there. At the reunion I even played volleyball, which may not sound like it's important, but it's something that a bunch of us that were playing used to do when we were in youth group together a million years ago.

This is the label that I helped with for the shower. We also helped with cards ^_^

I have been working on a few craft swaps, but currently I am not running the second critter craft swap, because there are still people who haven't responded to the emails and I don't really want people to be disappointed if they get matched up to someone that ends up not following through. I'm hoping to open it in August.

My health is something that is important and I've been trying to get it straightened out for what feels like a year now. It's a long process, but we have found one thing wrong that they said should be easy enough to fix. The thing they've decided on for sure is that I have a vitamin D deficiency.

This may not seem like a big deal compared to some other things, but I don't actually know how long it has been an issue. What I did learn after reading about some of the symptoms related to a D deficiency is that it could be what was helping cause the hallucinations I have been having.

What I may not have told you about yet is the fact that I've been having issues with my depth of field. This is a vision problem, that I'm not entirely sure what they can do anything about. The color problems, well that's a whole different problem, which may or may not get sorted out if they can figure out the problem concerning depth of field. I have an appointment at the eye institute in September. That's the soonest they could get me in to be seen.

The good news though, is that knowing what they know currently, I still don't have any solid answers. BUT what they do know is that I'm not going to die anytime soon(hopefully?). At least that's what I'm going with right now.

So yeah, I guess that's a good enough update for now. I do have a little more I want to talk about but I think I will save that for another day.




Wednesday, July 11, 2018

From the Archive : Cat and Falcon, Part 5

Open minded people lose
Something within the night
When the shops all close
And spirits take flight

Aurea grumbled as she adjusted the outfit that Dillon had picked out. As much as they got along she really had to question what was really going on. She wasn’t pleased by the fact that Dillon was coming to the event with something that she called a security date. Aurea wanted to know why Dillon got a safety net and she didn’t, why did she all of a sudden have to take one for the team.

The other folk that were backstage looked almost as uncomfortable as Aurea felt. One Coralitian was chewing her tentacles nervously while an earthling boy was wringing the stitches out of his shirt sleeve. Aurea flopped with a sigh onto a futon and gasped as her outfit seemed to constrict and push the air out of her. A small Orlyian hopped up next to her, feathers ruffled as he checked his clip board.

“You’re the representative from the space ports public relations and trade department, correct?” His tone was that of someone with the attitude of I-am-better-than-you.

“Yes I am.” Aurea replied simply as she shifted trying to get comfortable.

“Ah, well you’re number 23 in the line-up. You’re last.”

“Oh.” Aurea just stared at him, mulling over this new fact. She was going last. Dillon had warned her about being last. It was the most stressful position in the date auction. Dillon had told Aurea all about how the guy who had gone last the year before had been in tears backstage when he’d found out about the music they’d chosen for him.

Luckily, Aurea has already chosen her song. It had been part of the agreement with the boss. See, Caroline had already chosen an old earth tune. Aurea didn’t mind it though. It was easy to dance to and with the quick training Dillon had given her as to how to act in the auction, Aurea felt as though she was ready for anything. Although, she had to admit she wasn’t sure that her outfit would hold up once she got started. But that was something she wasn’t ready to think about just yet.

The waiting is the hardest part
In anything you do
The broken hearts are hidden
Only letting the mask come through

Cedric shifted in his seat looking around what was now a semi crowded room. There were so many people there, and everyone had out bid him so far. Most anyone that had come to ‘bid’ had already gotten a date. There were some girls that had teamed up cooing and teasing their ‘prize’ over in the corner, but Cedric sat alone still. Hunching down in his seat he began resigning himself to the idea of leaving when he felt a hand on his shoulder.

“So did you bid yet?” He heard Mar ask laughing brightly as she draped around his shoulders hugging him quickly before backing off again.

“I did but I didn’t gain anything by it other than a hoarse voice.”

“Ah. Can we join you?”

“Sure.” Cedric said turning to look at Mar and the being that he took to be her date as they sat down.

Mar was wearing a pretty cream colored gown, and her hair had been curled in a classic style. She had her hand wrapped around her dates. He was wearing a smoke grey suit, and seemed to be from the same place that she had come from. Except his skin was dark, dark green. Like her though, his hair had some grey streaked through it.

“Cedric I would like you to meet Martin, my fiancé.”

“Oh!” Cedric said, his voice displaying that he was surprised as he offered his hand politely. “Pleasure to meet you, Martin. Mar, why didn’t you tell me before?”

Mar laughed and winked. “Because I don’t really talk about my personal life at work if you haven’t noticed sweetie.”

“Ah.” Cedric nodded and was about to ask another question when his train of thought was interrupted by the announcer.

“Ladies and gentlemen, your attention please. Tonight’s date auction has been both the best, as far as turnout, as well as in the amount that is going to be donated to charity. I’d like you all to give a round of applause for our 22 lovely guys and dolls that have been already auctioned off. And I would like you all to sit back and have a few drinks. We have one more lovely lady to auction off tonight, but we’re going top give everyone that’s done a chance to leave if they would like, as well as for those that have yet to ‘win’, we’d like you all to feel comfortable moving closer.” The announcer paused and tipped his sequined top hat to the crowd and everyone laughed as a rainbow shot out into the audience. “We’ll have her come out to perform in about 15 minutes, then we’ll start the bidding.”

Best friends are the ones that stick around
The ones that don’t care if you laugh or cry
But regardless which you do they will sit back
And when you’ve had you’re fill then they’ll ask why

Dillon shifted in her seat, looking at her watch. The auction was going on 3 and a half hours. She almost regretted having pawned the task off on Aurea, note that it was ALMOST. She looked to the seat next to her and smiled. Her date had his face down in his arms, and she could hear him snoring. She gave him a swift kick in the shin and he gave a start, rubbing his eyes with his paws and blinking at her.

“Stay awake now Jay. Aurea is next and if no one else bids we’re going to.” Dillon said in a matter of fact, scolding tone.

Jay blinked and saluted her comically. “Yes Ma’am. And while we’re at it can we have a threesome afterwards?”

Dillon swatted him laughing. “Most certainly not pup. Besides if we did that she’d know that I was behind it, and I hate to have her find out that I sent my boyfriend out on a date with my best friend because no one else wanted to.”

“Hey hun, I have yet to meet her. And for all I know, I might decide that I like her better than you.” Jay spoke evenly, and looked serious.

Dillon swatted him again, probably about the hundredth time that night. “You wouldn’t know what was good for you unless it kicked your ass love.”

“Ah, but I knew you were good for me, and all you had to do was knock me out cold.”

“That was an accident!!”

“Just the same.” Jay leaned over and licked her cheek. “I knew that you were perfect for me when I woke up and you were sitting there wringing your dainty little paws nervously. You seemed to think that you’d killed me!”

“Don’t you know it. I wasn’t lucky enough to have killed you.” Dillon smirked as he guffawed and couldn’t think of a smart ass remark to make. “Anyway, you know how this is going to work. I don’t want her to feel as though anything is wrong. And come on, between the two of us, we can at least bid more than they got for the Coralitian.”

“Aye love. But remember anything we spend tonight, you’re going to be making it up to me later.” Jay grinned and pulled Dillon over and kissed her before she could protest, she pushed him back laughing.

“And you know that you never even had to tell me that since I’d already told you that I’d make it up to you.” Their attention was diverted back to the stage though as the announcer came back out, and the music started to play.

“Ladies and gentlemen, I present our last lovely Lady for the evening; Aurea.”

Wednesday, June 20, 2018

From the Archive : Cat and Falcon, Part 4

My heart beat rapidly, painfully
As the memories of what had been
Crossed my mind like a flock of butterflies
And I felt so ashamed
From the very start I knew
As you well knew, I knew
That no matter what happened
In my heart there was a place for you
But it hurts darling, oh so much
Knowing I shall never be
The one to receive your gentle touch
In the end though, in reality
It’s far better for you and for me
Knowing in truth that friends is all
That we will ever be
You’re the kind that must be free.

“Cedric, wait a minute won’t you? I’ve something for you!” Mariel called to Cedric , and he turned around. He noted sadly how much older she looked in the sunlight. Her reddish skin took on a slightly grayish tint. Mars hair which was normally tied up and tucked under her chefs cap, was down and loose, and you could see that salt and peppered through her coppery red hair was gray patches.

“Sorry. I didn’t know you wanted to talk.” Cedric replied apologetically, dropping his small duffel bag to the ground and hugged her.

Mariel paused, hugging him, and caught her breath. On the ship, the lower gravity was kinder to her. She appeared to be younger there. But every time they got back off the ship, Cedric felt as though his heart would break. Because he was always afraid that she might not make it to the next flight.

“I wanted to give you a ticket to the date auction tonight. You deserve to have some fun. And just so you know, I also am spotting for you to get a date, so I suggest you bid on some.”

Cedric felt his ears flushing as he took the ticket he was being offered, and then he slipped it into his pocket. “Why…Thank you Mar. What brought this up?”

“Paul and I got to talking last night after you left, so I sent ahead and had the ticket ready, but you didn’t stay put long enough for them to simply give it to you, therefore… I had to catch you and present it to you myself.”

Cedric cautiously accepted the ticket and hugged Mariela again. “Thank you. Although I really must say that it’s strange to think that you’re willing to pay to send me out on a date.”

Mar laughed and swatted him playfully. “Only because you deserve it. You take a lot of crap from the corporation. If I was in your shoes I’d never stand for it.”

“Ah.” Cedric smiled, then picked his bag back up. “Well I think that it will be fun. Maybe there’ll be someone interesting there.”

“There’s always someone interesting there…” Mariela replied, and then she watched him head off, and wondered who would be there that was new.

Cedric on the other hand…was trying to figure out how in the world they expected him to feel comfortable spending someone else’s money…