Ramble from Linda

It's been a while, and we are happy to hear from her once again! Welcome back, Linda!

A couple months back as I was leaving the house, I tripped over, well huh….air for the lack of a better word. There was nothing there to cause me to trip.

As I hit the ground we, (mom, niece Vicky and I) heard bones breaking. I had landed on my knees then my butt slammed into my feet. I had feared that I had broken my knees. As it turned out I had only strained the muscles and tendons of my right knee and tore some skin off the left.

The sound of breaking bones turned out to be my right ankle as I fell and my right foot when my full weight and butt landed on my foot. The right knee was better after about three weeks. Two and half months later my feet and ankle is still in a cast. Will be until right before Christmas. I hope.

I also broke three of my toes on the right foot and the big toe on the left foot but that’s no big deal. I have broken my toes so many times in my 52 years, they pretty much break on voice command now. LOL!

Flu season hit the house two weeks ago when 11 year old Vicky come home sick and soon everyone but me was sick. I finally got it the day before Thanksgiving. Oh Joy!

The kids were over it but all the adults were still sick. Thanksgiving was a snot fest. (sorry!) Lot of leftovers as nobody but the kids felt like eating. I could saved a lot of time and money if I just served TV dinners.

I told Vicky if she comes home sick right before Christmas that I was sending her to her father’s and let her spreading the joy at his place. LOL.

Happy Holidays.
Linda

Wow...that sounds like hell to me. Here's hoping Christmas goes much better and as planned. Heal well! Thanks for showing up and sharing.

Now changing tone a bit I want to send note to all, Peace. Here is hoping that we as humans can remember always that each of us has a life and a story that touches so many. I send good thoughts to all the families and friends that are grieving tonight for the loss of loved ones and a special message for the officers lost to an act of barbarism that ended their lives way too soon. May they Rest in Peace.

Enjoy your update.

Elisa

Birds of Prey

• Part 11 of Goodbye...Never Means Forever by V (The Athenaeum).
  
  BtVS
  
• Chapter 23 of Tara by Mark Warren (Hellmouth Revisted).
  
  
• Chapter 8 of Side Effects by invalid reality (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 1 of Ambiguous Bestowal by Jinxgirl (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  CSI
  
• Chapter 47 of Following the Clues by Rebelrsr (her web site).
  
  
• Dancing Mission by MBInc (The Athenaeum).
  
  Law & Order: SVU
  
• However, Not by V (The Athenaeum).
  
  Nikki & Nora
  
• Chapter 1 - 4 of In Too Deep by docwho2100 and Writerghost2000 (JS Odds & Ends).
  
  Original
  
• Chapter 4.32 of Flowers of Edo by Nene Adams (her web site).
  
  
• Part 4 of Earthbound (Conclusion) by JM Dragon & Erin O'Reilly (The Athenaeum).
  
  
• Fin de Siecle by fingersmith (The Athenaeum).
  
  
• Death Wears Yellow Garters by Rae D. Magdon (The Athenaeum).
  
  
• The Extraordinary Adventures of Brice Johnson, Bus Driver: The Second Adventure by silverwriter01 (The Athenaeum).
  
  
• If You Could See Me Now by Robin Hicks (The Athenaeum).
  
  Xena Warrior Princess
  
• Musings: The Bard & The Warrior by Jennifer Alexander Robinson (The Athenaeum).
  
  
• Epilogue Part 2 of When in Rome by Kamouraskan (The Athenaeum).

I'll take annoying over icky any day....

What is it about me and always getting sick on the weekend? Last Sunday I was feeling icky from a stomach bug. Today, I don't feel as icky, but I've got an annoying cold. I guess the fact that I never seem to have to use my sick days during work is a good thing. I then have more to use when the kids get sick.

Tomorrow school is out and I'll be attending a class to get a few of my state mandated Core Competencies out of the way. The kids will hang out and play video games all day I'm sure.

In the meantime I've taken it easy today. Sitting in the comfy recliner and watching cheesy action/horror movies is much easier to justify when you're sick.

Tamara

Birds of Prey

• Justa Matter of Time by Enginerd (Birds of Prey Femslash Masterlist).
  
  BtVS
  
• Part 5 of Unbreakable (Conclusion) by DragonWriter17 (her web site).
  
  
• Chapter 7 of Broken Faith by KW Jordan (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 11 of Before by kaykay13 (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 19 of Ten by Ten by liljemsey (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 2 of A Darker Side by EdenLeeRaven (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 12 of 100 Photographs by Electra (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 13 of Who Am I? (Conclusion) by slayertash (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Part 5 of Unbreakable (Conclusion) by DragonWriter17 (Mystic Muse).
  
  Original
  
• Chapter 4.31 of Flowers of Edo by Nene Adams (her web site).
  
  
• Making Love Stay by SoCalBard (Academy of Bards).
  
  
• Death Wears Yellow Garters by Rae D. Magdon (Academy of Bards).
  
  Xena Warrior Princess
  
• Part 6 of Too Much to Ask (Conclusion) by Kennedy Northcutt (Academy of Bards).

Calm

The day went by smoothly. Unfortunately Tamara has got some nasty little cold that has attacked her and her nose. But we went to the book store with the kids and then to lunch. Got home to a easy day at the house. I finished putting up the outside lights and now we await a wood delivery. Sadly it will most likely mean stacking wood in the dark.

Here's hoping you all are enjoying your weekend as well. Peace, Health and Happiness.

Elisa

Birds of Prey

• Just A Matter of Time by Enginerd (her web site).
  
  BtVS
  
• Chapter 1 of Because by EdenLeeRaven (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  Guiding Light
  
• Chapter 2 - 7 of Sins of the Child by Fewthistle (her web site).
  
  
• Chapter 4 & 5 of Elysium by Fewthistle (her web site).
  
  Law & Order: SVU
  
• Pieces by Cleo2584 (Saffic).
  
  Original
  
• Chapter 4.30 of Flowers of Edo by Nene Adams (her web site).

Hanging Out

Yesterday was Duncan's 14th birthday. He's definitely a typical 14 year old. Today we went to see A Christmas Carol in 3d. Duncan chose not to go with us. He's at that age where all animated movies are boring. I would have seen another movie with him but there wasn't a darn thing showing that either one of us wanted to see.

So he was left to his Xbox live devices and we sat through an okay movie. I like the real 3d so much better than the 3d that was around when I was a kid. The Real 3d actually works with my glasses for one thing and the quality of the movies is much better.

After the movie we ate a cheap lunch and I picked up my not-so-cheap van from the garage. I took it in for an oil and transmission fluid change and ended up needing my windshield washer fluid reservoir replaced (it was cracked) along with a piece of the windshield washer fluid pump.

Then once we made it back to the house the real fun began. E had the house painted this summer and in the course of that painting they removed all of the little hooks that hold the string of Christmas lights. Time to put new ones in. This entailed laying on the roof and hanging over the edge to screw in about ten little white hooks.

So it's done now and E is happy her Christmas lights are on the house. I'm very happy you only have to screw the hooks in once.

Tamara

Bad Girls

• Real Life Fantasy by Crispaay500 (Passion & Perfection).
  
  Birds of Prey
  
• Part 3 of Murder, Said The Killer by Jessica Knight (Passion & Perfection).
  
  BtVS
  
• The Calendar Pages by EldritchSandwich (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Parts 26 - 30 of Essence of the Hellmouth by Wispr (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Parts 7 - 10 of Beauty and the Beast the Faerun Way by Wispr (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Chapter 18 of Ten by Ten by liljemsey (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 3 of Tales in the Moonlight by chosen2 (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 4 of As You Were by invalid reality (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  CSI
  
• One Special Night by DarXe (Passion & Perfection).
  
  The Gilmore Girls
  
• Out of the Asylum, Into the Fire by Nate (Passion & Perfection).
  
  Glee
  
• I want to text you up by Angie (her web site).
  
  Grey's Anatomy
  
• Little Too Gone by Sharon Bowers (Passion & Perfection).
  
  Guiding Light
  
• Olivia Vs the PTA by ralst (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Resurrection by Formerlurker (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Parts 6 - 10 of The Summer House parts 6-10 by Formerlurker (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• The Five Best Dates Olivia and Natalia Ever Had by atsammy (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• All Things are Difficult Before They are Easy by atsammy (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Through Ashlee's Eyes by atsammy (Passion & Perfection).
  
  The Hollows
  
• The Quick and the Damned by Dark Wyldchilde (Passion & Perfection).
  
  Law & Order: SVU
  
• Part 2 of The Mask and the Bell by cleo (Saffic).
  
  Original
  
• Chapter 4.29 of Flowers of Edo by Nene Adams (her web site).
  
  
• Chapter 2 of Tales from Copper Rock by docwho2100 and mightygupo (JS Odds & Ends).
  
  
• Part 5 of Earthbound (Complete) by JM Dragon and Erin O'Reilly (Dragonjul's Storybook).
  
  
• Parts 1 - 3 of To Be Unhuman by Alex Mykals (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• The Changing Moon by Shadowriter (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Siren's Call by Shadowriter (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• LA Riddles by Shadowriter (Passion & Perfection).
  
  Popular
  
• The Snowball Effect by Redlance (Passion & Perfection).
  
  Stargate SG-1
  
• Twinkle and Glow by DarXe (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• In The Beginning by KC (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Insightful Suggestions by KC (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Sharing Opinions by KC (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Too Early by KC (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Medical Advice by KC (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Round four? by KC (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Bob by KC (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Hysterics by KC (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Caught Red Handed by KC (Passion & Perfection).
  
  Xena
  
• Revenge by Norsebard (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• A Weekend With Aphrodite by Norsebard (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Part 5 & 6 of Infamia by Vivian Darkbloom (Passion & Perfection).

Thanks

In the US this is the day we're to sit back and give thanks. I'm up (my usual time, so not early for me) around 5 AM getting the 25-pound turkey stuffed and ready to go into the oven. Say goodbye, Tom! But now I sit and contemplate the rest of the day.

Now the second part of the day will be slow...that is splendid. We'll take our time trying to figure out where everyone will sit. We'll set up a second table in hopes to capture everyone at the event of eating.

And an event it is. Full on turkey, corn bread stuffing, potatoes, various veggies, green Jell-O salad, cranberry stuff, rolls, and gravy. That is dinner then we have the overload of pie with whipped cream.

But in reality what is this day? A day to remember what? Time and history play throughout. At first look is it that wonderful pilgrimage to our new country? The one we settled and then relocated a weaker native population. Something to be said there huh.

Man has a way of making history sound smooth, but if one truly studies it I'm thinking innocence lost would be more profoundly visible. Tamara and Ze are the history buffs, I tried to avoid it whenever possible. I find history sad. Death seems to be the main event with many innocents found among that list.

Okay, back on track.

Thanks. On that list would definitely have to be the kiddo and the boys. These kids show us hope. Something we all can use. Next up, as I sit here feeling fairly decent...health is far up on that list of something to be thankful for. Easily on that list would be the partner in all crimes. Tamara plays the part so well.

We're lucky to be squeezed into a house too small for us all and yet, one must be happy for that as so many have so much less. We'll sit down and enjoy a large meal with family and friends, definitely more thanks there.

Further outside our box we're lucky to have more friends and family viewing the fuller perspective and seeking nothing but the best for all.

As one truly views through a window there is thanks to be given for so much and here is hoping that each and every one of us can take a step to the window once in a while.

May Peace, Health and Happiness find us all. Truth will follow.

Elisa

BtVS

• Chapter 17 of Ten by Ten by liljemsey (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chatper 10 of Before by kaykay13 (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 7 of Side Effects by invalid reality (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 11 of 100 Photographs by Electra (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  Original
  
• Chapter 2 of Tales from Copper Rock by docwho2100 and mightygupo (JS Odds and Ends).
  
  
• Chapter 4.28 of Flowers of Edo by Nene Adams (her web site).
  
  Xena Warrior Princess
  
• Part 26 of A Queen's Tale by Melissa Good (her web site).

Harvest Festival

Or something similar.

Actually Harvest Festival here is around the autumnal equinox in September and it's very informal. But it's probably the thing that comes closest to (and probably played a part in) the celebration that you're about to have on the other side of the pond. Thanksgiving.

I actually "googled" thanksgiving to see if I could educate myself a bit and find something to say about it for you this evening. Because although we learnt about it in school it was covered in about two minutes as part of a lesson on the American colonies and consisted of "the pligrims were starving, the Indians fed them and they celebrate each year by giving thanks." And I discovered it didn't quite go like that. I found some links regarding the national day of mourning by Native Americans that I thought about posting for you but I decided they weren't appropriate. The writers were for the most part very angry. And while their anger was justified and was appropriate, my posting them was not.

So I found some less angry but still interesting links. Like this one. Not quite as angry but still eye-opening. And this totally not angry but still very interesting history lesson. I learnt a lot from my searches. Thanksgiving is both much more complex that I'd thought - and yet much simpler.

I also found a site that mentioned that the day after Thanksgiving isn't just a religious frenzy in celebration of the gods of greed and consumerism (so-called Black Friday) but is also Native American Heritage Day. That's something to think about while you walk off your turkey dinner. *g*

Whatever you do or don't do, eat or don't eat (someday I'm going to have to be in the USA for Thanksgiving just so I can try Tofurkey!!), watch or don't watch - have a safe and happy day over there. See you next week.

Happy Thanksgiving. Goodnight and may your God/s go with you.

Ze

BtVS

• Chapter 10 of 100 Photographs by Electra (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Taking by Jinxgirl (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 5 of New Sunrise by chosen2 (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  Criminal Minds
  
• Part 3 of Lessons by Femvamp (C M Femslash).
  
  
• Part 2 of Lessons by Femvamp (C M Femslash).
  
  
• Part 2 of The Strip by todaysit (C M Femslash).
  
  Criminal Minds/X-Men Crossover
  
• Part 5 of Hellfire by Alsike (C M Femslash).
  
  Jennifer's Body
  
• Not Quite Aces by Janine (Saffic).
  
  Law & Order: SVU
  
• Expecting Rain by Geonn Cannon (His blog).
  
  
• Challenge by cleo2584 (Saffic).
  
  Original
  
• The Incredible Adventures of Brice Johnson, Bus Driver: The Second Adventure by Silverwriter01 (Royal Academy of Bards).
  
  
• Chapter 4.27 of Flowers of Edo by Nene Adams (Her website).
  
  Stargate SG-1
  
• A Love Too Strong To Break 5: Glimmer Of Hope by Arcturus (Area 52).
  
  Sarah Connor Chronicles
  
• Corrected link for Redhope's TSCC contest (TSCA).
  
  Xena Warrior Princess
  
• Part 6 of Infamia by Vivian Darkbloom (Royal Academy of Bards).
  

Film

Ok - first things first. An author (and regular reader of this here nonsense) is selling autographed copies of her published (in print form) novel and has an offer on an ebook in order to fund a small domestic emergency. If you're interested checkout her blog LZ's Blog post.

Second. Redhope's archive page for fanfic of Terminator:The Sarah Connor Chronicles is holding a Christmas Contest. See Here for details.

Right. I was head:desking along with Joan when I read her ramble the other day. Fancy not watching a film because it's monochrome!! All right - Dietrich couldn't act her way out of a wet paper bag but who cares - it's Dietrich!!. I can't begin to count the number of truly brilliant films that person will never experience because of this. They'll never see the incredible chemistry between Bogie & Bacall. And how sexy a woman can be fully-clothed and simply saying "You know how to whistle". They'll never see the perfect (and heart-breaking) depictions of the futility of war that are the original All Quiet on the Western Front or La Grande Illusion. Never become enthralled by Film Noir. Never be lost in the poetry of Orphee. Or laugh like an idiot over an Ealing Comedy. Or a Laurel and Hardy caper.

I just don't understand it. I mean - I could understand trying a particular film & not liking it. (I never could see the fascination with Brief Encounter - I laugh in all the wrong places *g*). Or disliking a particular actor. (Olivier - talk about over-rated!!) Or a particular style, or director. But to dismiss anything up to fifty years of films simply because they're in monochrome... What happens in a modern director gets artistic & decides to shoot in b/w then?? (They do sometimes).

I don't get it. But then - I'm so bloody old-fashioned that I love silent movies. Not the comedies. (Though I think Buster Keaton's a genius). No - I love the dramas (melodramas really). Broken Blossoms. Way Down East. The Wind. Metropolis. The original Nosferatu. Battleship Potemkin (Potyomkin really but English speakers always butcher it). Pandora's Box. Gish and Garbo and Brooks and Fairbanks. Hell - I even own a copy of Birth of a Nation. (Brilliant cinematography & directing - way ahead of its time - but oh God the storyline is evil.)

And don't get me started on books. I'm with the bloke who built the Time Machine (the version played by Rod Taylor not the dire remake). When he's shown the remains of the library, by the Eloi, and remarks that it tells him a lot about them. Bah. Humbug.

Enjoy your reading. Catch you tomorrow.

Ze

BtVS

• Chapter 9 of 100 Photographs by Electra (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 18 of Secrets by rebelrsr (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  Criminal Minds
  
• Chapter 26 of Sabotage by lostnfoundcause (Women in Kevlar).
  
  
• Chapter 5 of Sound Of Silence by darkbardzero (Women in Kevlar).
  
  
• Four Days, One Room - Day Three A by liberty_stewart (Women in Kevlar).
  
  
• Part 11 of Anathema by Amichevole (C M Femslash).
  
  
• The Strip by todaysit (C M Femslash).
  
  
• Part 1 of Lesson by femvamp (C M Femslash).
  
  
• Home Invasion by scarimor (C M Femslash).
  
  Criminal Minds/Fringe Crossover
  
• Truth by scarimor (C M Femslash).
  
  Criminal Minds/X=Men Crossover
  
• The Devil You Know by Alsike (C M Femslash).
  
  CSI
  
• Chapter 4 of Show Me by vanillabug (cathandsara).
  
  
• Dancing Mission by mbinc (cathandsara).
  
  CSI:Miami
  
• Chapter 13B of Choices by sinjenkai (Women in Kevlar).
  
  
• Chapter 14A of Choices by sinjenkai (Women in Kevlar).
  
  Devil Wears Prada
  
• Obsession by The Raven (Her website).
  
  
• Seven And A Half Minutes by The Raven (Her website).
  
  
• Forbidden Doors by The Raven (Her website).
  
  
• Second Chapter by The Raven (Her website).
  
  Doctor Who
  
• Parting Ways by carawj (D W Femslash).
  
  
• Lessons by stunt_muppet (D W Femslash).
  
  
• Somewhere Over the Rainbow by atraphoenix (D W Femslash).
  
  
• Knock-Knock Jokes by livii (D W Femslash).
  
  (Kim Harrison's) The Hollows
  
• Stripped of Will - Prelude by Gen (ivy_rachel).
  
  Law & Order: SVU
  
• Chapter 29 of Sacred Revenge by rebelrsr (Her website).
  
  Original
  
• If You could See Me Now (revised version of Untitled) by Robin Hicks (Royal Academy of Bards).
  
  
• Chapter 4.26 of Flowers of Edo by Nene Adams (Her website).
  
  Terapia D'Urgenza
  
• Lead by The Raven (Her website).
  
  Voyager/Battlestar Galactica Crossover
  
• Part 3 of A Tale of Two Sixes by Semerket (Saffic).
  

Bride of Stomach Bug

It took a week but E and I were hit with Cal's little stomach bug. E's started Friday night (after seeing Brandi Carlisle) and she had a crap night of sleep. Saturday her stomach was iffy all day. She didn't eat much, felt queasy. Then Saturday evening it hit me. I had a horrible night of sleep. Woke up Sunday after sleeping in and felt a bit better.

As we headed out the door to Fred Meyer I started feeling queasy. E tells me that I looked like sh*t at Fred Meyer. That's good because I felt like sh*t. Once we got home and put away the groceries I crawled into bed. After several hours of crackers and ginger ale and videos on hulu.com I felt much better. Good enough to eat some rice for dinner. Made it to work today and feel back to my old self.

I'm very thankful that Calvin didn't bring back Puke-a-thon. I can live with Queasy-a-thon any day.

Tamara

BtVS

• Chapter 22 of Tara by Mark Warren (Hellmouth Revisited).
  
  
• Chapter 3 of As You Were by invalid reality (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 26 of The Killer in Me by lizardmm (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 11 of Epic-logue (Conclusion) by Bobbi (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  Merlin
  
• Inconstant Rose by Bitterfig (Saffic).
  
  Original
  
• Chapter 4.25 of Flowers of Edo by Nene Adams (her web site).
  
  
• Part 4 of Earthbound by JM Dragon & Erin O'Reilly (Academy of Bards).
  
  Xena Warrior Princess
  
• Part 5 of Too Much to Ask by Gin (Kennedy Northcutt).

A Ramble from Joan

What is the world coming to?

We all know that the next generation has never been able to aspire to the intellectual heights of their forebears, ever since Aristotle, probably before then, and still humanity has not only survived, but even made one or the other progress. Still...

One of the progresses the readers of this site may value highly is the invention of the printing press. After all, it ultimately led to widespread literacy, and the electronic version of printing is what enables us to read lots of wonderful stories, not least of
all because of the application of that art by our beloved grunts. Even if it is misused to publish rambles like this one, occasionally.

However, are you aware that *reading* must be considered a dying, nay, dead art by now? Even though you are practising it right this moment?

Because progress is a two-faced beast. After centuries of being a highly regarded cultural technique, reading not only takes a second place to moving pictures, it is being positively rejected by above-mentioned next generation. Many is the time I have argued for the advantages of forming your own pictures in your mind to complement the written word, only to be countered with 'A book? Nah, give me a video anytime!'

It's not that I object to videos per se, I have a (smallish) collection of them myself. However, the other day, I recommended 'Witness for the Prosecution', which, by the way, is based on a novel by Agatha Christie, to someone who had never heard of that movie (I won't
mention that person's name). When I pointed out the actress Marlene Dietrich, eyes grew wide -- 'Then it's in black and white? No, thanks.'

Reading? READING??? I won't mention it again. I am defeated, utterly defeated.

Joan

FYI Joan, I own a few books all about Aristotle and some with his writings, I have enjoyed them completely and will continue to do so for many years to come. Also we (grunts) do not believe posting your rambles in any way is a "misuse", hence we thank you for sharing your words, time and energy with all of us. Please keep visiting.

Now back to the update and remember if you have something to say, let us know, Enjoy!

Elisa

BtVS

• Chapter 10 of Epic-logue by Bobbi (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 8 of 100 Photographs by Electra (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 16 of As Long As She Needs Me by fairyjnrfairyjnr (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 16 of Ten by Ten by liljemsey (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 6 of Side Effects by invalid_reality (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  Original
  
• Chapter 11 of Twisted Secrets by Mickey Minner (her web site).
  
  
• Chapter 1 of Tales from Copper Rock by docwho2100 and mightygupo (JS Odds & Ends).
  
  
• Chapter 11 of Twisted Secrets by Mickey Minner (Academy of Bards).

Kid Free Events

Last night Tamara and I got to enjoy a free concert by Brandi Carlile and it was fun. Something I do very rarely anymore. When I was younger live music was something I enjoyed a lot, but as my hearing has deteriorated I chose to listen to my doctors. But on a rare occasion one steps out and enjoys life. And she didn't let me down. It was good fun and I'm glad we went.

Next up for our events with no kids is December 5 at the Seattle Mystery Bookshop were we'll meet up with the author Andi Marquette for a signing of her new book. I'll remind you Seattlelites again as time gets closer.

Until then, enjoy your update!

Elisa

BtVS

• Chapter 6 of Dusk by invalid reality (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 7 of The Scooby Gang and a Baby by liljemsey (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 6 of Broken Faith by KW Jordan (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 9 of Epic-logue by Bobbi (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  The Devil Wears Prada
  
• Like Andrea by Gin (Academy of Bards).
  
  Original
  
• Chapter 4.24 of Flowers of Edo by Nene Adams (her web site).

Friday once again.

Tonight E and I will be seeing Brandi Carlisle at Easy Street Records. I believe E will also be getting a CD or two signed. An evening without kids...feels kind of weird. I'm so used to having them around, when we do something without them it's almost like something is missing. Yeah, I need to get out more probably.

Enjoy the updates!

Tamara

Bad Girls

• Hope by ratz (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Today - Helen POV by ratz (Passion & Perfection).
  
  BtVS
  
• Chapter 31 of Voices from the Past by Rebelrsr (her web site).
  
  
• Chapter 17 of Secrets by rebelrsr (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 5 of Side Effects by invalid reality (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 9 of The Road to Hell by hungryandhorny (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 7 of 100 Photographs by Electra (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 1 of Storm Clouds by EdenLeeRaven (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 8 of Epic-logue by Bobbi (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  Criminal Minds
  
• Part 1 of How We Lose, How We Win by frenhu (Passion & Perfection).
  
  The Devil Wears Prada
  
• Obsession by The Raven (Passion & Perfection).
  
  Grey's Anatomy
  
• Undone by SyrenSoul Red (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Hungry by SyrenSoul Red (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Territory by SyrenSoul Red (Passion & Perfection).
  
  Guiding Light
  
• Bridges by Purplepapillon (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• The Seduction by Purplepapillon (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Pride by Purplepapillon (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Present Tense by Purplepapillon (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Moving On by Purplepapillon (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• A Certain Time and Place by Purplepapillon (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• You've Got Mail by Purplepapillon (Passion & Perfection).
  
  Law & Order: SVU
  
• Children and Olivia by Lena Smith (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Children and Olivia II by Lena Smith (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Tomorrow, Forever, Always by Loopyem89 (Passion & Perfection).
  
  Original
  
• Chapter 4.23 of Flowers of Edo by Nene Adams (her web site).
  
  
• Part 4 of Earthbound by JM Dragon and Erin O’Reilly (Dragonjul's Storybook).
  
  
• Chapter 7 of Taming the Wolf by Sammet (Academy of Bards).
  
  Stargate SG-1
  
• Picture (Testing Times 21) by SJSlashfan (Area 52).
  
  Terapia D'Urgenza
  
• Lead by The Raven (Passion & Perfection).
  
  Xena Warrior Princess
  
• A Mortal Trade by Mary Morgan (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Adega by Lex23 (Passion & Perfection).

Where's Friday?

The week seems to be dragging. It must be that I'm looking forward to a weekend of peace or what I hope will be a weekend of peace.

Fall is clearly here and I'm loving our nifty rain and wind storms. As long as the trees stand and no flooding, I'll continue to be happy with the weather. It can be dark and rainy for a while as far as I'm concerned.

We had a sizzling summer, so let us rejoice in some great fall rain. Yeah, yeah I know I'm the minority.

Enjoy your update!

Elisa

BtVS

• Chapter 15 of Ten by Ten by liljemsey (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 19 of Where We find Ourselves by lilskippy (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• My Morphine by KW Jordan (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 2 of Memories by The Void (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 7 of Epic-logue by Bobbi (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 6 of 100 Photographs by Electra (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  Comics
  
• Jane's World:Copping and Attitude by Paige Braddock (AfterEllen.com).
  
  Original
  
• Chapter 4.22 of Flowers of Edo by Nene Adams (her web site).
  
  Stargate Atlantis
  
• Normal (Sentinal 101 Part 4) by Orithain & Rina (Area 52).

Fencing Lessons...sort of

Reisen wasn't well. I was up all night with him on Thursday, took him to the vet Friday and then was up all night Friday. He's got an infection (to be precise a UTI). Vet thinks he picked it up rolling in something unpleasant on one of his walks. (He does that a lot, that's Retrievers for you.) Probably tainted water she said. (Kids chuck stuff into the stream). Personally I reckon it was the two-week-plus-dead rabbit's head he found and lovingly brought back for me.

I could doze in between bouts of dosing him with antibiotics and his frequent (like every 45 minutes) trips into the garden for a pee, but all the same I was completely exhausted by early Saturday morning. Not really helped by the fact that all day and night Friday we had torrential rain and gale-force wind. A whole month's rainfall in around 4 hours...

Around 5am I let him out for yet another pee and idly watched the garden. I must have been tired because it was about 20 minutes before I realised he was standing stock still and watching the back fence swaying. In fact it was swaying backwards and forwards about 60 degrees. This is no mean feet because it's 2 metres high and 7 metres long (about 6 foot 5 by 22 feet). And held up by four posts 15cm by 15 cm thick, (6 inches by 6 inches). I had visions of it falling on him and squashing him so flat that I could slide him under the door. I got him in, put my boots on and went to investigate. Two steps into the garden and I realised it was a mistake. I could barely stand upright against the wind and I already looked like a drowned rat.

It took me 10 minutes to reach the fence. When I got there I promptly stood banging my head on it before turning around and going back indoors for some tools. And rope. Getting back in was a lot quicker. I fought my way down the garden again and started to try and hold the fence. Big mistake. I'm strong (stronger than I look) but I couldn't hold it against the wind. I went out through the gate and tried to get at it from the other side. The wind was stronger outside. The grass isn't very soft when you hit it face first. I managed to protect my shoulder though.

I crawled to the fence and stood up, grabbing it again. It blew inwards and took me with it. Then out again. It was like a fairground ride. I couldn't decide if I was having fun or not. I probably would have if I hadn't been soaking wet and freezing cold. I tried to get the rope on it all the while going to and fro. No luck. I tried propping it in place with another chunk of wood. The wood snapped. A strong gust blew me over and I heard the fence groan. I grabbed it, desperately trying to hold it in place. There was a dreadful crashing sound and it broke. The 15cm posts snapped like toothpicks and the fence flew sideways. Carrying me with it, perched prone on the top, like a flying carpet. Fortunately my weight was enough to bring it to ground quickly. Before it could take out the French windows. The force buried it into the lawn slightly so I knew it wasn't going to move again.

So there I was lying on the fence. When I heard a voice. The kid. Yelling. "Are you f***ing INSANE". I thought about that for a moment and concluded the answer was yes.

I crawled up the garden and into the house. I'm not sure exactly what she said to me but boy she yelled a lot. There were more swear-words. And comments about my sanity. And questions as to whether I was suicidal. I think there was a threat about double-pneumonia in there somewhere, too.

Reisen sat and watched. I'm not sure but I think he was laughing at me. I'll get my revenge for that though. As soon as his infection is completely cured I'm going to bath him. With flea shampoo. That teach him!!

But first I need some good weather. I have to build a new fence. Or maybe a wall.

Hope your weather is better. Goodnight and may your God/s go with you.


Ze

BtVS

• Chapter 3 of Shades of Grey by NGBlue (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 4 of Side Effects by invalid_reality (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 4 of 100 Photographs by Electra (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 6 of Epic-logue by Bobbi (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  Criminal Minds
  
• Stress Relief by Ann911 (Women in Kevlar).
  
  CSI:Miami
  
• Chapter 13A of Choices by sinjenkai (Women in Kevlar).
  
  Doctor Who Universe
  
• Moments, Arbitrarily Gifted by agapi42 (D W Femslash).
  
  Kill Bill/Revolutionary Girl Utena Crossover
  
• Copperhead by Bitterfig (Saffic).
  
  Original
  
• Chapter 4.21 of Flowers of Edo by Nene Adams (Her website).
  
  Stargate SG-1
  
• Changes (A Love Too Strong To Break 4) by Arcturus (Area 52).
  

Beyond Tired

It's a quarter to one. I'm cream-crackered. My shoulder hurts. I've got a sick dog so I haven't had a lot of sleep since last week. (He'll be ok - he's on the mend). There's a tonne of stuff to read tonight so I'll not say much. I'll tell you all about the gales, the monsoon, me & the garden fence when I update tomorrow.

Ze

BtVS

• Chapter 2 of As You Were by invalid_reality (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 2 of Tales in the Moonlight by chosen2 (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapters 2 & 3 of 100 Photographs by Electra (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 5 of Epic-logue by Bobbi (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 14 of Ten by Ten by liljemsey (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  Criminal Minds
  
• Busted! by Maggsie! & darkbardzero (Women in Kevlar).
  
  
• Part 5 of Somebody's Watching, Somebody's Waiting by liberty_stewart (Women in Kevlar).
  
  
• Part 6 of Somebody's Watching, Somebody's Waiting by liberty_stewart (Women in Kevlar).
  
  
• Part 7 of Somebody's Watching, Somebody's Waiting by liberty_stewart (Women in Kevlar).
  
  
• Part 3 of Didn't We Almost Have It All by Maggsie! (Women in Kevlar).
  
  
• Chapter 25 of Sabotage by lostnfoundcause (Women in Kevlar).
  
  
• Stress Relief by Ann911 (C M Femslash).
  
  Criminal Minds.X-Men Crossover
  
• Chapter 6 of City on the River by Alsike (C M Femslash).
  
  
• Chelsea Hotel by Alsike (C M Femslash).
  
  CSI
  
• Part 3 of Show Me by vanillabug (cathandsara).
  
  CSI:Miami
  
• Part 12C of Choices by sinjenkai (Women in Kevlar).
  
  Dr. Who Universe
  
• A Thing, With Aliens by livii (D W Femslash).
  
  
• And Explode Into Space by biichan (D W Femslash).
  
  
• All That Hopping by magicallaw (D W Femslash).
  
  
• Exceptions To The Rule by joanne_c (D W Femslash).
  
  
• Somebody Hold Me Too Close by hangingfire (D W Femslash).
  
  
• Through Windows and Small Doors by hafital (D W Femslash).
  
  
• Time Turned Inside Out by ionlylurkhere (D W Femslash).
  
  
• Requiem For Events Yet Passed by kowarth (D W Femslash).
  
  
• New Beginnings by quiet_empire (D W Femslash).
  
  
• Ice-cream Castles by Glinda (D W Femslash).
  
  
• One More Time, Not Like the First by jinxed_wood (D W Femslash).
  
  
• Look Out (here comes tommorrow) by kowarth (D W Femslash).
  
  
• Show Me More of This Traken Thing Called Kissing by Doyle (D W Femslash).
  
  
• Sticking Around by xhecticbankaix (D W Femslash).
  
  
• Like You I'm Indestructible by Netgirl (D W Femslash).
  
  
• Caretakers by Alixtii (D W Femslash).
  
  
• Sunshine for Your Love by aces (D W Femslash).
  
  
• Happens To Me All the Time by purple_bug (D W Femslash).
  
  
• Maybe This Time by jelly_belly99 (D W Femslash).
  
  
• In That Year by Jen Northwood (D W Femslash).
  
  
• The Tech and the Thief by grlgoddess (D W Femslash).
  
  
• Away From the Mirror by Bitterfig (D W Femslash).
  
  
• Owl Girl and The Redhead Take Aberdeen by uktechgirl (D W Femslash).
  
  
• Night Vision by Calapine (D W Femslash).
  
  
• World Saving On a Limited Budget by DoreyG (D W Femslash).
  
  Nikki & Nora
  
• Chapter 14 & 15 (conclusion) of Agendas by docwho2100 (J S Odds & Ends).
  
  Original
  
• Part 3 of Earthbound by JM Dragon & Erin O'Reilly (Royal Academy of Bards).
  
  
• Parts 2 & 3 of Earthbound by JM Dragon & Erin O'Reilly (The Athenaeum).
  
  
• Zoya by Windstar and Zee (The Athenaeum).
  
  
• Three Days by Catherine Burke (The Athenaeum).
  
  
• Grasping at Straws by Jae (The Athenaeum).
  
  
• A Rooster's Job by Jae (The Athenaeum).
  
  
• Chapter 4.20 of Flowers of Edo by Nene Adams (Her website).
  
  
• Chapter 6 of First Seven Then Eight by Phair (Her website).
  
  Rainbow Brite
  
• Gentle Caress by DigiExpert (Saffic).
  
  Voyager
  
• Confessions of a Talking Pig by Odon (The Athenaeum).
  
  Women's Murder Club
  
• Best Laid Plans by yellowsmurf6 (Women in Kevlar).
  
  Xena Warrior Princess
  
• Some Friends Indeed by Annazon Fox (Royal Academy of Bards).
  
  
• Some Friends Indeed by Annazon Fox (The Athenaeum).
  

Home

Calvin stayed home from school today and so did I. Last night around 6 he started throwing up. Nothing would stay in his stomach, not even water. The last hurl happened around 9 pm. He slept until around 1 am and drank water and peed. We also watched a video, then both were back to sleep by 2:30.

I kept expecting him to wake up and lose all the water he drank but he kept it down. He woke up this morning feeling great. I still kept him home. I'd already called in the night before and you just never know with kids. Tomorrow though we'll both be back at school.

I'm very relieved because I fully expected another Puke-a-thon. The last one that went through the household happened in 2007 I believe. I didn't miss it one bit and would like 2009 to remain Puke-a-thon free.

Tamara

BtVS

• Chapter 11 of Lost by Rebelrar (her web site).
  
  
• Chapter 21 of Tara by Mark Warren (Hellmouth Revisited).
  
  
• Chapter 12 of Decode by lizardmm (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 11 of Lost by rebelrsr (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 16 of Secrets by rebelrsr (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 1 of 100 Photographs by Electra (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  Law & Order: SVU
  
• Undone by cleo (Saffic).
  
  Legend of the Seeker
  
• Peace and Quiet by Janine (Saffic).
  
  Original
  
• Part 12 & 13 of Burnt Sugar by Damnation (her web site).
  
  
• Chapter 4.19 of Flowers of Edo by Nene Adams (her web site).
  
  
• Untitled-Halloween Story by Mickey Minner (her web site).

Announcement Night

Good News for all of you Xena fans.

Hi everyone. I'm angharad governal. Once Upon a Time and Long Ago, I used to be active in the Xenaverse. I ran several websites besides my own personal fan fic archive, namely the (infamous) Annals of the Conqueror (AOC) and BLURB: Recommendations of Xenaverse Fan Fiction. Recently, I noticed that the new(er) location of BLURB since I had given it to other webmasters had vanished from the web so I decided to bring an archive copy of the site back online. I hope this is of some help (and joy) to the old and new Xena fen out there. While I'm no longer active in Xena fandom, I do like the idea of keeping parts of this rather important femslash fandom "alive" in one way or another if I'm able to do so. This is the announcement I've plastered all over my sites as well as on my LJ. I do hope you guys enjoy the old site. And thanks! - angharad governal

BLURB: Recommendations of Xenaverse Fan Fiction was active at the website address (http://xeblurb.tripod.com) from 07 August 1999 to 04 September 2001. It was transitioned to other owners/webmasters after that date and moved to another location. On 14 Nov 2009, I noticed that the "new" BLURB site was no longer online. For the sake of keeping Xenaverse history accessible and "alive" to those who are now discovering online Xena fandom and the myriad of wonderful things that flourished in its heyday on the web, I have brought BLURB back from the ethereal and transitory thing that is the interwebs. Unfortunately, any content that was added to the site after the transition to the erstwhile other owners is more than likely lost. What is here is what I was able to piece together and salvage of the old site before new ownership had taken place. The majority of links to various stories are probably dead. My apologies for not updating those links. Irregardless of that fact, I do hope Xena fans will get a kick out of seeing the old girl back up again. As the former owner and webmaster, I'm delighted to bring this little piece of the Xenaverse back up and around. Do enjoy. And thanks for visiting. (P.S. Please ignore both the email links and the e-group join buttons, as the site is no longer "active", but kept online as a matter of preserving Xenaverse fandom history.)

BLURB at my fan fic site

BLURB at the tripod back-up

Thanks, Governal, for letting us know! There you have it, go enjoy.

Now back to your updates.

Elisa

BtVS

• Chapter 10 of Vanilla by BeccaA (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 4 of New Sunrise by chosen2 (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 16 of As Long As She Needs Me by fairyjnr (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 3 of Side Effects by invalid reality (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 3 of Epic-logue by Bobbi (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  Firefly/Serenity
  
• Iris, Messenger of the Gods by Bitterfig (Saffic).
  
  Original
  
• Part 13 of A Family Again by Twila (E-Scribblers.com).
  
  
• The Changing Moon by Shadowriter (Academy of Bards).
  
  
• Siren's Call by Shadowriter (Academy of Bards).
  
  
• Chapter 4.18 of Flwoers of Edo by Nene Adams (her web site).
  
  Xena Warrior Princess
  
• Part 4 of Too Much to Ask by Kennedy Northcutt (Academy of Bards).

Get Busy...

Large update, enjoy.

Elisa

BtVS

• Chapters 1 & 2 of Shades of Grey by NGBlue (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 35 of Heart's Desire (Conclusion) by Pencil Neck (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 1 of Leather Studded Kisser by polykhromatik (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 1 of Memories by The Void (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 2 of Epic-logue by Bobbi (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  CSI: Miami
  
• You Never Know by dhamphir (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• You Do The Paperwork by dhamphir (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• It Was Just The Beginning by dhamphir (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Moving Day by dhamphir (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Interior Decorating by dhamphir (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Downright Irresistible by dhamphir (Passion & Perfection).
  
  Criminal Minds
  
• Keeper of the Winds by lysachan (Passion & Perfection).
  
  Dr. Who
  
• Away From the Mirror by Bitterfig (Saffic).
  
  Firefly
  
• Parts 12 - 14 of No Rest for the Wicked by Inspector Boxer (Passion & Perfection).
  
  Gossip Girl
  
• I Never Said Love by shyath (Passion & Perfection).
  
  Guiding Light
  
• Parts 1 - 4 of Elysium by Fewthistle (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Three Times Olivia Really Needed a Martini by Fewthistle (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Three Reasons Ava is Glad She Lives Far, Far Away by Fewthistle (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• How Three People Found Out About Olivia and Natalia by Fewthistle (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Tenets of Faith by Fewthistle (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Unspoken Truths by Fewthistle (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Speaking in Tongues by Fewthistle (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Best of Enemies by Fewthistle (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Parts 1 -5 of Sins of the Child by Fewthistle (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Risks by Wonko (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Débutante by Wonko (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• A New Beginning by Wonko (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Stepping Up To Bat by Wonko (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Stargazing by Wonko (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• A Love Song by sHaYcH (Passion & Perfection).
  
  Law & Order: TBJ
  
• A Culinary Experiment by Ann (Passion & Perfection).
  
  Sanctuary
  
• Curious Effect by Juri (Passion & Perfection).
  
  The Sarah Connor Chronicles
  
• Always Yours by shyath (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• The Silence Is All There Is (And All There Will Be) by shyath (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• I Can Be Broken (Just For You) by shyath (Passion & Perfection).
  
  Stargate SG-1
  
• Three Wishes by dhamphir (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• The Question by dhamphir (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• The Negotiation by dhamphir (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Five Times Sam And Janet Almost Got Caught by dhamphir (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Five Places Sam and Janet Wanted to Have Sex But Never Did by dhamphir (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• A Hundred and One Days by dhamphir (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• A Different Point of View by dhamphir (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Fall From Grace by dhamphir (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Breathe by dhamphir (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Because It’s You by dhamphir (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Against Regulations by dhamphir (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Worth It by dhamphir (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• North by dhamphir (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• What The Hell Happened? by dhamphir (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Tough Love by dhamphir (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Rediscovery by dhamphir (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• The Doctor’s Mystique by dhamphir (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• French or Italian by dhamphir (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• The Prophecy by dhamphir (Passion & Perfection).
  
  Voyager
  
• Lady Katherine and the Deadly Dispute by Sazzy (Voyager Conspiracy).
  
  Wicked
  
• Fire by Mbard (Passion & Perfection).
  
  X-files
  
• You Never Know by dhamphir (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• You Do The Paperwork by dhamphir (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• It Was Just The Beginning by dhamphir (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Moving Day by dhamphir (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Interior Decorating by dhamphir (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Downright Irresistible by dhamphir (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Can You Hear Me Now? by dhamphir (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• A Date by dhamphir (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• The Dedication by dhamphir (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• A Carrot?! by dhamphir (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• The Dentist by dhamphir (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Dana’s Surprise by dhamphir (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• The Flu by dhamphir (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Anger, Trust and Forgiveness by dhamphir (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Fever by dhamphir (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Is That A Yes? by dhamphir (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Purple Nightmares by dhamphir (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Reaffirmation by dhamphir (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• How Long by dhamphir (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Distraction by dhamphir (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Conditioner Treatment? by dhamphir (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Steam by dhamphir (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Phonus Interruptus by dhamphir (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• No Choice by dhamphir (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Incorrigible by dhamphir (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• I Do Give A Damn by dhamphir (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Busted! by dhamphir (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Raw by dhamphir (Passion & Perfection).

Hype!

Exciting news from the Academy of Bards.

Announcement from the Academy of Bards- Solstice Challenge
<.pushes button on cyber tape recorder.>

Good Morning Agent Bard...

It's that time of year again. the organization know as The Royal Academy has issued a challenge to ALL writers. This time they are encouraging multifandom stories. MULTI-FANDOM.

Oh, the audacity...oh the humanity...oh what killer stories we will have to read.

<>ahem, yes<>

You mission, should you choose to accept it, is to infiltrate the Academy by participating in the challenge as a writer. You will communicate with headquarters with a series of code words that you must include in your story. Follow the roools and your survival is assured; break them and we disavow any knowledge of your mission. Good Luck.

Oh and we understand that EVIL J and OZ are also cooking up a Punzle but we'll worry about that when it surfaces.

This cyber tape will not self-destruct...you'll have to delete it yourself. <.g.>

The Royal Academy of Bards Solstice Challenge - The Rools

There you go. A fun new writing challenge for some of you. Those of us who read will just have to wait patiently. In the meantime, there's plenty to read below. Have at it.

Tamara

BtVS

• Chapter 2 of Side Effects by invalid reality (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Learning, Loving and Letting Go by Tinabelle216 (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 1 of Epic-logue by Erin Bobbi (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 6 of the Scooby Gang and a Baby by liljemsey (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Reflection by Chami (Willow/Tara Fiction Archive).
  
  
• Willow by Chami (Willow/Tara Fiction Fiction).
  
  
• Figuring Things Out by Hugin_Len (Willow/Tara Fiction Archive).
  
  
• Losing a Friend by Kristen (Willow/Tara Fiction Archive).
  
  Mad Men/True Blood
  
• On The Veranda by Bitterfig (Saffic).
  
  Nikki & Nora
  
• Chapter 12 & 13 of Agendas by docwho2100 (JS Odds & Ends).
  
  Original
  
• Chapter 4.17 of Flowers of Edo by Nene Adams (Flowers of Edo).
  
  
• Part 3 of Earthbound by JM Dragon and Erin O'Reilly (Dragonjul's Storybook).

A re-ramble or something...

Yay...more shared words!

Joan is right it never hurt anybody to say "thank you" or to give praise to someone for something that you liked. I won't argue with that. I guess I just don't really feel comfortable about e-mailing writers. Funny thing really as I do like writing the reviews and letting everyone know my feelings about the fic's that I've read!? (Someone with a degree in psychology might like to explain that to me).

As for the reviewing business – it takes bit of work to write a review, but at the same time I get an excuse to do a rerun of fic's that I've found good enough to save! And let me tell you this - Rev is really good about the beta-thing, she gives out lot of commas and corrections for free!

So if you would like to share some of the good stories you have come across, please let the Rev know – I for one would like to know what you found, even if you just write a short review.

UK

Good thing UK came by since I haven't much to say, do you? Let us know if you do. Now have at it, enjoy your updates!

Elisa

BtVS

• Chapter 7 of Dealing (Complete) by Hayley (Electra's Fanfiction).
  
  
• Chapter 5 of Broken Faith by KW Jordan (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 15 of When Life Hands You Buffy, Make Fuffy by BFGirl (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  Comics
  
• Jane's World: Animal Kingdom by Paige Braddock (AfterEllen.com).
  
  Murder In Suburbia
  
• Part 19 of Fallen by Erin Griffin (Subtext in Suburbia).
  
  Original
  
• Chapter 4.16 of Flowers of Edo by Nene Adams (her web site).
  
  Watchmen
  
• I'm Sorry Too by Bitterfig (Saffic).

Armistice Day

When you go home
Tell them of us and say
For your tomorrow
We gave our today

Goodnight and may your God/s go with you - and with those who serve.


Ze

BtVS

• Chapter 6 of Dealing by Hayley (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 1 of Side Effects by invalid_reality (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 14 of Resolute by invalid_reality (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 34 of Heart's Desire by Pencil Neck (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 3 of Living, Breeding Nightmare by SammyFLuv (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  CSI:Miami
  
• Part 12B of Choices by sinjenkai (Women in Kevlar).
  
  Original
  
• Grasping at Straws by Jae (Royal Academy of Bards).
  
  
• A Rooster's Job by Jae (Royal Academy of Bards).
  
  
• Chapter 4.15 of Flowers of Edo by Nene adams (Her website).
  
  Stargate SG-1
  
• Dark Despair (Part 3 of A Love Too Strong To Break) by Arcturus (Area 52).
  
  Voyager/BSG Crossover
  
• Part 2 of A Tale of Two Sixes by Semerket (Saffic).
  
  Xena Warrior Princess
  
• Part 3 of Too Much To Ask by Kennedy Northcutt (Royal Academy of Bards).
  

Futility

Not a lot to say tonight really. I'm in a fairly sombre mood. (You might want to skip this ramble if you don't feel like being depressed).

It was Remembrance Sunday this past weekend and of course it's Armistice Day tomorrow. I bought my Flanders poppy last week. The day I got it was, coincidentally, the anniversary of the last day of the third battle of Ypres. Passchendaele. I died in Hell - they called it Passchendaele. (Siegfried Sassoon). And I thought about "The War to End Wars". And all the wars since then.

And then today six coffins arrived back in England. Six coffins, six soldiers, six fathers/husbands/brothers/sons. The youngest was just 18. I can't remember exactly what I was doing at 18. I was a-serving of 'er Majesty the Queen in what was then the WRAF. I was probably being yelled at for not having my hat on straight or something. Whatever I was doing I'm damned sure I wasn't expecting my life to end suddenly and bloodily. And I wondered what the hell was the point. What did all those millions die for in two world wars. Because we haven't leant a damn' thing. We still send eighteen-years-old lads to die in foreign fields. And for what?? Greed. Hate. Religion, (or at least the corrupted version of it). War settles nothing.

And tomorrow, when I stand silently for two minutes, I'll be thinking of them. The dead of the two wars,and the way we've betrayed their sacrifice by continuing to wage war ever more fiercely. I'll be thinking of the lads who died then and the lads who still die.

And I'll ask why. Why do they still die?? What's the point??

And I ponder the futility of it all.

Ze

BtVS

• Chapter 33 of Heart's Desire by Pencil Neck (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• The Chain by lizardmm (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 13 of Resolute by invalid_reality (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  Criminal Minds
  
• Part 3 of Somebody's Watching, Somebody's Waiting by liberty_stewart (Women in Kevlar).
  
  
• Part 4 of Somebody's Watching, Somebody's Waiting by liberty_stewart (Women in Kevlar).
  
  
• Part 8 of World Spins Madly On by Red (Women in Kevlar).
  
  
• Chapter 16 of Ten by lostnfoundcause (Women in Kevlar).
  
  
• Part 4 of Sound Of Silence by darkbardzero (Women in Kevlar).
  
  
• Hot & Bothersome by Semerket (Women in Kevlar).
  
  
• Chapter 24 of Roadtrip by addicted-mb (C M Femslash).
  
  
• Part 2 of Admirer by cydi cydonia (C M Femslash).
  
  Criminal Minds/X-Men Crossover
  
• Fake Empire 7 by Alsike (C M Femslash).
  
  CSI
  
• Halloween's Funhouse by The Dark Zodiac (Women in Kevlar).
  
  
• Part 1 of Leave Me Breathless by smartyshortie (cathandsara).
  
  
• Part 2 of Leave Me Breathless by smartyshortie (cathandsara).
  
  CSI:Miami
  
• Part 11F of Choices by sinjenkai (Women in Kevlar).
  
  
• Part 12A of Choices by sinjenkai (Women in Kevlar).
  
  Devil Wears Prada
  
• Trick or Treat by Beachbum (Foxfire & Moonlight).
  
  (Kim Harrison's) The Hollows
  
• Part 2 of In the Leyline of Fire by Wye (ivy_rachel).
  
  Original
  
• Untitled Story by Robin Hicks (Royal Academy of Bards).
  
  
• Chapter 4 of Trouble Times Ten by J L Nicky (Butches, Babes & Bards).
  
  
• Chapter 4.14 of Flowers of Edo by Nene Adams (Her website).
  
  Revolutionary Girl Utena
  
• Persephone or Hades by Bitterfig (Saffic).
  
  Stargate SG-1
  
• Step One (Part 4 of In Bed) by layhee (Area 52).
  
  
• Ground Rules (Testing Times 20) by SJSlashfan (Area 52).
  
  Xena: Warrior Princess
  
• Part 25 of A Queen's Tale by Melissa Good (Her website).