Quiet

Not much in the way of words from me tonight. Enjoy this healthy update.

Tamara

Battlestar Galactica

• Doing Business by Celievamp (Passion & Perfection).
  
  Birds of Prey
  
• A Birds of Prey Christmas Carol by Erin Griffin (Realm of the Shadow).
  
  
• Sweet Kisses by Erin Griffin (Realm of the Shadow).
  
  BtVS
  
• Chapters 1-10 of Pulling Through by sayahiei (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 8 of Secrets by quest (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Geometry of Shadows by Celievamp (Passion & Perfection).
  
  CSI
  
• Like a Bee to Honey by Ann (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• The Retreat by Ann (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Meeting the New Girl by ralst (Passion & Perfection).
  
  CSI
  
• Love and Affection by amluv (Realm of the Shadow).
  
  
• Before and After by mrswoman (Sassy).
  
  Facts of Life
  
• Full Circle by Ann (Passion & Perfection).
  
  Farscape
  
• Doing Business by Celievamp (Passion & Perfection).
  
  Nikki & Nora
  
• Pesky Partners by atfm (Passion & Perfection).
  
  Original
  
• Part 3 of Wave Dancer by S. Derkins (her web site).
  
  
• Hot for Teacher by Jesse KW James (Academy of Bards).
  
  Popular
  
• Temperature is a Relative Thing by Wolfemeister (Realm of the Shadow).
  
  
• Lush by Wolfemeister (Realm of the Shadow).
  
  
• Things That Go Bump In the Night by Teara (Realm of the Shadow).
  
  
• Overstaying Your Welcome (Giving Thanks) by Teara (Realm of the Shadow).
  
  
• What's So Merry About Christmas? by Teara (Realm of the Shadow).
  
  
• Fallout by carpesomediem (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Popular drabbles by carpesomediem (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• More Than Meets the Eye by carpesomediem (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Why Does This Keep Happening to Me? by carpesomediem (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Kinky by carpesomediem (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Tear Down This Wall by carpesomediem (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• In My Way by carpesomediem (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Sinner's Hot Desire by carpesomediem (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Fish Taco Friday by carpesomediem (Passion & Perfection).
  
  Popular/BtVS
  
• The Gift That Keeps on Giving (Spam & Umad Series #16) by Snarlsnout (Realm of the Shadow).
  
  Stargate SG-1
  
• Pedicures, Mochaccinos & Victoria's Secret by geonncannon (Brooding Detective).
  
  
• The Fairy at the Bottom of the Garden by Celievamp (Passion & Perfection).
  
  Stargate SG-1/Stargate Atlantis
  
• Sunset Over Atlantis by Romansilence (Realm of the Shadow).
  
  Voyager
  
• Chapter 12 of Deadlier than a Scorpion's Sting by Kudara (her web site).
  
  Xena Warrior Princess
  
• Surrender by Lori A. Meyers (Academy of Bards).

Recipe Night

Yippee! Finally Friday and on top of that I was given some recipes! On to it we go.

Here are a couple of cold soup recipes my family enjoys.

Chilled Carrot Soup with Tarragon Mousse

6 servings

Ingredients
3 medium Carrots, trimmed, peeled and cut into 1" rounds
2 1/2 cups fresh carrot juice
1 teaspoon butter
1 teaspoon honey
Pinch of Curry Powder
1/2 cup Heavy Cream
Salt & Pepper

For the Mousse:
1/4 Creme Fraiche (or equal parts whipping and sour cream)
1 cup Heavy Cream
3 small sprig Tarragon, minced (or chives or basil)

Put carrots, 1 1/4 cups of the carrot juice, butter, honey and curry into a large pot and bring to a boil over medium heat. Reduce heat to medium low and simmer until the liquid has evaporated and carrots are very soft; about 1 hour. Add cream, increase heat to medium, and simmer for an additional 3 minutes.

Puree carrot mixture and remaining carrot juice in the jar of a blender. Pass soup through a fine sieve into a medium bowl and season to taste with salt & pepper. Cover and refrigerate until well chilled.

For the mousse: Whip creme fraiche And heavy cream in a medium bowl until stiff peaks form. Fold in minced tarragon.

Or you can cheat and use a small spoonful of sour cream with the spice of your choice (fresh or dry) sprinkled on top.

Divide soup between chilled soup bowls and place a spoonful of mouse in the center of each bowl, on top of the soup. Serve immediately.

Strawberry Soup

4 servings

Ingredients
1 cup dry white wine
1/3 cup white sugar
2 cups chopped strawberries
1 cup orange juice

Directions: In a small saucepan mix wine and sugar, and bring to a boil. Let boil for 5 minutes and then remove from heat. Let cool.

Puree strawberries and wine mixture in a blender or food processor. Blend until very smooth and then stir in orange juice. Chill for at least 3 hours before serving.

You can substitute the white wine for a sparkling wine or a fruit juice such as apple or passion fruit.

kcslair
www.caseyslair.com

Okay, folks, let kcslair know what you think. I for one will give both of these soups a try! Thanks so much and to all the rest of you folks remember we love recipes, so happily share any time!

Now off to your updates, enjoy 'em.

Elisa

BtVS

• Chapter 4 of Whispers in the Dark by RockerWolfPup (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 6 of Future Results of a Past Mistake by ftvs (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  Comics
  
• 6/08/07 of Jane's World by Paige Braddock (Comics.com).
  
  CSI
  
• Untitled by halfbloodme (Sassy).
  
  Original
  
• Raw Silk by Jove Belle (E-Scribblers).
  
  
• Part 10 of Echoes of the Past by J.M.Dragon & Erin O'Reilly (Academy of Bards).
  
  
• Part 10 of Echoes of the Past by J.M. Dragon & Erin O'Reilly (The Athenaeum).
  
  
• Part 1 of Licit Cusp by weebod (Academy of Bards).
  
  
• Part 1 of Licit Cusp by weebod (The Athenaeum).
  
  
• Chapter 5 of Two Party Harmony by Colleen (The Athenaeum).
  
  
• Part 10 of Echoes of the Past by J. M. Dragon & E. O'Reilly (Dragonjuls' Storybook).
  
  Stargate SG-1
  
• Choking on Raindrops by Rysler (Brooding Detective).
  
  
• Morning Has Broken by SJSlashfan (Area 52).

Hot

Summer heat hit today. Ick. Enjoy your updates.

Tamara

BtVS

• Chapters 1-3 of After the Fall by Electra (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 5 of Just a College Girl by Forgotten Conscience (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Parts 27 & 28 of Switcheroony by Alicorn (Mystic Muse).
  
  
• Part 2 of Working It Out by JustSkipIt (Mystic Muse).
  
  
• Part 10 of Twice Chosen by DragonWriter17 (Mystic Muse).
  
  
• Part 16b of Waiting for Dani by JustSkipIt (Mystic Muse).
  
  
• Chapter 1 of Wishes Do Come True by Angela (Through the Looking Glass).
  
  Charlie's Angels
  
• Favorite TV Shows by Ann (Passion & Perfection).
  
  Comics
  
• 6/07/07 of Jane's World by Paige Braddock (Comics.com).
  
  CSI
  
• Exorcising Ghosts by Ann (Passion & Perfection).
  
  Facts of Life
  
• Don't Ask, It's Complicated by ghost (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• A Winter's Tale by Della Street (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Scholarship by Della Street (Passion & Perfection).
  
  Grey's Anatomy
  
• Storms by UbiquitousMixie (Passion & Perfection).
  
  Hospital Central
  
• The real story by Bea (Passion & Perfection).
  
  Nikki & Nora
  
• Manhunt by Ann (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Lazy Morning by Elfcat225 (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Mardi Gras Sting by Lesley Mitchell (Passion & Perfection).
  
  Original
  
• Part 17 of The Long Way Home (End of Book 1) by Katia N. Ruiz (E-Scribblers).
  
  
• Cruel Summer by T. Walker (Sandbox 101).
  
  West Wing
  
• Absolution and Chinese Food by Cj (Passion & Perfection).
  
  Stargate SG-1
  
• Candy Pink by Janet's Penlight (Area 52).
  
  Xena Warrior Princess
  
• Anastasias Destiny by D.J. Belt (Sandbox 101).
  
  
• Serendipity by Lori A. Meyers (Academy of Bards).

Middle of the Week

Got anything to share with us? Feel free to come by and share. Send Us those words, announcements, and recipes anytime. I am sure some of you cook out there, so share the wisdom. I personally am looking for some good cold soup recipes, got any?

Back to the scheduled program. Enjoy your updates!

Elisa

BtVS

• Chapter 14 of Second Chances by rebelrsr (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 2 of Findin' Love Is Tough, Makin' It Work Is Tougher Part 2 by ftvs (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 30 of The Courtship of Buffy Summers by Salix (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  Comics
  
• 6/06/07 of Jane's World by Paige Braddock (Comics.com).
  
  CSI
  
• Summer Storm by Kristina K (Sassy).
  
  
• If Sara Lives...Take 1 by Ann (Sassy).
  
  Original
  
  
• Part 2 of WaveDancer by S. Derkins (her web site).
  
  
• Scarz by Jynaki (Sandbox 101).
  
  
• Chapter 5 of Two Part Harmony by Colleen (Academy of Bards).

Day Camp

The kids are at Chalice Camp this week during the day. It's quite lovely. In honor of my peaceful week I decided to concentrate on cleaning my carpets. A problem arose this morning, however, when I turned on my carpet cleaner and the little brushes weren't moving. Not so good. I really need those little brushes to scrub my carpet because it's carpet that's been tromped on by two boys and a dog.

I ended up taking the carpet cleaner to the Hoover store for repair and ran an errand I was going to do Friday. My living room furniture is still shoved to one side. I'm not moving it back because I'm hoping they call me tomorrow with a fixed carpet cleaner. I must admit the big open space has been great for folding sheets.

Tamara

BtVS

• Chapter 21 of Finding Her Way Home by rebelrsr (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 11 of Breaking Tradition by Selena Taiki (Through the Looking Glass).
  
  
• Chapter 2 of Final Fantasy X-4 by Stormforce (Through the Looking Glass).
  
  Comics
  
• 6/05/07 of Jane's World by Paige Braddock (Comics.com).
  
  CSI
  
• Love and Affection by amluv (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Summer Storm by Kristina K (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• A Phone Call Away by mirage (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• If Sara Lives....Take 1 by Ann (Passion & Perfection).
  
  Charlie's Angels
  
• Saving the Day by Ann (Passion & Perfection).
  
  Cold Case
  
• A Phone Call Away by mirage (Passion & Perfection).
  
  House, MD
  
• Illusion by CrashCart9 (Passion & Perfection).
  
  Law & Order: SVU
  
• Exposure by Amara (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Taken Back by Sterling Sky (Passion & Perfection).
  
  Nikki & Nora
  
• Part 1 of Partners, On the Forceby ralst (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Part 1 of Partners In Crime by ralst (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• New Beginnings - Dan's POV by Ann (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Crawfish Crisis by Ann (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• A Brush with Death by Ann (Passion & Perfection).
  
  Popular
  
• Shadow Lover by Wolfemeister (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Terminal by Wolfemeister (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Evening Tea by Wolfemeister (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Lush by Wolfemeister (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Two Popular Drabbles by Wolfemeister (Passion & Perfection).
  
  Stargate SG-1
  
• Operation SwapMeet by Ann (Passion & Perfection).
  
  Wicked
  
• Seven Months of Eden by Rysler (Brooding Detective).
  
  Xena Warrior Princess
  
• Serendipity by Lori A. Myers (The Athenaeum).
  
  
• Party Games by Akiela Xal (The Athenaeum).
  
  
• The Return - Gabrielle's Last Lesson by No Tesford & Wyatt Traishe (their web site/blog).

Ramble from Phil

A splendid surprise on a Monday. Take it away, Phil!

<.deep breath.>
Hi my name is Phil...
And I am a cheater.

You may know me as Oz of the Royal Academy of Bards
(land of a gazillion XWP fics). I've come here to Uber Etc. to make a confession. I figured...okay...hoped...y'all of all people would understand.

Yes, I have been unfaithful...to X&G.

It started out innocently enough...the person I beta for wrote a short story. It wasn't unusual for it to not be an X&G fic. I mean she usually only writes X&G when my whining gets so loud she can't tune me out.

Teach her to give me her phone number, huh?

Anyway, I read it and filed it away. Then in January, one innocent, quiet, Sunday, while I was home with the flu...the USA Network ran a marathon of a particular show.

I shall not name it to protect the innocent.
But like XWP, it usually goes by three little letters.

Anywho, I figured ...eh, what the hey. I mean, I had nothing to do but work my way through a box of Puffs Plus. I remembered her fic and thought I'll just watch a show or two and see how well she caught the character voices.

Twelve hours and twelve episodes later...I was hooked.

Then all heck broke loose.
I crossed the line.

<.hanging my head in shame.>
I Googled.

I fired up the PC and went hunting.
I felt so guilty and yet so, so inspired. Yes, I eventually found myself up to my runny nose in bookmarked sites, buried in fanfiction, exploring live journals, downloading pictures and, ultimately, cruising Amazon to buy the DVDs. My bard and warrior shoved aside as I delved into the world of detectives, victims, perps, truth, justice and the American way.

Whoa...bad sidetrack...channeled Superman that time...<.ahem.>

OH when I cheat, I go all out.

I am addicted now. Never miss an episode and have pretty much caught up on most of the previous seasons. I've even started collecting some related merchandise. Well, except I'm still looking for those authentic handc...uhhhhhh...nevermind.

So much for my promise to myself to not go overboard and get attached to a TV show never, ever again.

Never say never, I guess. <.sigh.>

So in an effort to feed my addic...ahem...I mean to expand reader horizons and to help introduce (hopefully) some new writers to our Bard Challenge and our faithful readers, while also giving our regular Challenge participants (gotta love'm and I do) an interesting new challenge to tackle...
The Royal Academy of Bards is proud to present:
Bard Challenge #17--Criss-Crossover our first multi-fandom writing challenge.

Go here for the premise, the roools, the deadline and the prize list: www.academyofbards.org/contest/2007/criss-crossover/

If you read other fandoms and since this is Uber Etc, you came to the right place...spread the word to your favorite writers about the Challenge. Please feel free to crosspost the Challenge link/info...EVERYWHERE. We would love a big turnout and our rabid readers love to feed when they read. So if you crave feedback...c'mon over and play.

If you have any questions about the Challenge or roools...just email me at PHIL728@aol.com. I'm sure I have an answer for you. Or I can make one up.

Oh and for you non-writers...we will be having a Punzle Graphic Contest as well. Look for it around the middle of the month.

Thank you and Good Luck.
Oooh...gotta go...my show is on...time for my Benson fix.

OZ...over and out.

Splendid! The challenge that is, not the flu or addiction part. So thanks, Phil, for coming by and sharing the good news with us all. Now to all you writers out there, get busy. Join in the fun and share your words all about. Show the Academy how much talent is truly out here! I'll look forward to reading the stories.

Now onto the updates, enjoy 'em.

Elisa

BtVS

• Part 10 of Twice Chosen by Dragonwriter 17 (her web site).
  
  
• The Wedding by Dylan (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 27 of Change of Seasons by pasha (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  BtVS/Charmed
  
• Chapter 5 of Charmed, I'm Sure by rebelrsr (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  Comics
  
• 6/04/07 of Jane's World by Paige Braddock (Comics.com).
  
  Original
  
• Quittin' Time by jesse KW james (Academy of Bards).
  

Hype Night

How about a little hype to end the weekend?

ReadTheseLips.com presents a lesbian short fiction anthology in Read These Lips: Openings. We are pleased to bring you twenty-one reflections on lesbian life in stories and poetry ranging from fantasy and science fiction to erotica and everyday issues, showcasing some of the increasing diversity and complexity in lesbian fiction today.

AK Naten, Anne Azel, Anne Laughlin, Beatriz Copello, JLNicky, Lara Zielinsky, MsPrism, Pearlie McNeill, Ren Peters, Renée Strider, Shadylady, Therese Szymanski, Tricia Dearborn and Trish Shields have generously donated their works for our first edition. We invite you to pick up a free copy from www.readtheselips.com.

Evecho

And for those of you who enjoy Kris Dresen's work you can now purchase a collection of her "silent" comics work. It's called every part of you is familiar to me and is a steal at $10.

Tamara

BtVS

• Chapter 10 of Breaking Tradition by Selena Taiki (Through the Looking Glass).
  
  Law & Order: SVU
  
• Part 7 of Live Like You Were Dying by D (her web site).
  
  Original
  
• From the Boots Up by AndiM (E-Scribblers).
  
  
• Part 8 of Savage by Phair (her web site).
  
  
• Chapter 13 of Extended Intentions by Jynaki (Academy of Bards).
  
  Xena Warrior Princess
  
• Silver Lining (55 Word Fiction) by IseQween (Academy of Bards).
  
  
• Perfect III (55 Word Fiction) by IseQween (Academy of Bards).
  
  
• Her Final Chapter by TwinkerHell (Academy of Bards).

Saturday in the Sun

Hope you all have enjoyed your Saturday (or Sunday depending on where you live). Today my daughter and I took advantage of the fact we live near water. We got out to Golden Gardens Park. A splendid place if one gets there early as we did. Few were there upon our arrival at 9 am, however, within an hour hundreds arrived. We stayed half the day enjoying the sun and surf. A wonderful breeze blew the entire time allowing me to enjoy the sun peacefully.

Lucky for me though a change is on the way. My nifty rain is to return soon, perhaps as early as tomorrow. Perfect end to a wonderful weekend.

May you all enjoy your updates. May Peace come soon.

Elisa

Birds of Prey

• Longing by Lisa (Birds of Prey Femslash).
  
  
• Objection by Lisa (Birds of Prey Femslash).
  
  
• What Could Have Been by Sam Quinn (Birds of Prey Femslash).
  
  
• Unfinished by NDV (Birds of Prey Femslash).
  
  
• Alternate Lives by Jinx (Birds of Prey Femslash).
  
  
• Past Lives by Jinx (Birds of Prey Femslash).
  
  
• Forgotten Lives - Warrior, Princess, Priestess by Jinx (Birds of Prey Femslash).
  
  
• Simply In Love by Jennifer-Oksana (Birds of Prey Femslash).
  
  
• Kind of Noticeable by Jennifer-Oksana (Birds of Prey Femslash).
  
  
• The Movie of My Angst by Jennifer-Oksana (Birds of Prey Femslash).
  
  BtVS
  
• Chapter 29 of The Courtship of Buffy Summers by Salix (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 15 of New Beginnings, Old Enemies by Dylan (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 10 of Paid to Get Excited by Coopster5000 (Through the Looking Glass).
  
  
• Part 1 of The Dryad by Chris Cook (Through the Looking Glass).
  
  CSI
  
• Chapter 2 of Breaking Spring by Kimmi (Sassy).
  
  Original
  
• Parts 9-11 of Diplomacy (Conclusion) by S. Derkins (Academy of Bards).

Ramble from Tara Wentz

Keen news from Tara Wentz....

Almost a year has gone by since my last ramble and in that time my first book Traffic Stop has been released. I thought the day would never come, but when you're excited about something it always takes longer, right? Traffic Stop started out as a short story for an author challenge on Radclyffe's Yahoo group. She was gracious enough to let me participate and that sparked the short story which eventually became my novel. I had this story that I knew I wanted to share, but had no idea how to even begin. Luckily Radclyffe was very encouraging in her critiquing and with her help and the aid of Lori L. Lake Traffic Stop became that story. I consider it to be an action/intrigue/romance novel and I'm shocked yet very ecstatic that it's on the StarCrossed Productions Overall Bestseller list.

To those that have already purchased and read Traffic Stop I thank you from the bottom of my heart. You have no idea what your support means to me and I would love to hear your thoughts about the story. For those that haven't there are several places where you can learn more about the story if you are interested. StarCrossed Productions, Intaglio Publications or my own website at www.tarawentz.com. I've also got a Yahoo group of my own and I would love for you to join. You can find it at groups.yahoo.com/group/tarawentz/.

I've been working on a new story called Deception by Design and have about 6 chapters of it done now. Since the release of Traffic Stop I've been a little detained and somewhat distracted. However, I plan to get that going again real soon. There are also various short stories posted by myself and other members and I encourage anyone who wants to share their writing to feel free.

Last, but not least, I am very excited to also mention that I am attending the GCLS Conference this year in Atlanta. This is my first year and I can't wait to meet so many wonderful people. There are so many authors that I can't wait to meet!

Before I close I want to thank Elisa for inviting me to ramble and for having a forum where opinions and thoughts can be voiced and heard. Thank you!

Tara

There you have it. You couldn't ask for a more information-packed ramble. Check out Tara's work and if you're in Atlanta this summer say 'hey.'

Tamara

BtVS

• The Way It Should've Gone by Bobbi (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 4 of Just a College Girl by Forgotten Conscience (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 13 of The Kingdom SunnyDale by JS ellienoname & MG (JS Odds and Ends).
  
  Comics
  
• 6/01/07 of Jane's World by Paige Braddock (Comics.com).
  
  CSI
  
• Private Dancer by Celievamp (Passion & Perfection).
  
  CSI: Miami
  
• Childhood Cliches by A. Magiluna Stormwriter (Passion & Perfection).
  
  Facts of Life
  
• Parts 1 & 2 of The Autumn Leaves by liz (Passion & Perfection).
  
  Hospital Central
  
• Part 1 of Captive Hearts by Aurora (Passion & Perfection).
  
  JAG
  
• In-Flight Service by ncruuk (Passion & Perfection).
  
  Law & Order: SVU
  
• Parts 41 - 44 of Delicate Balance (Complete) by brighteyedcat (Passion & Perfection).
  
  Nikki & Nora
  
• The Day After by Ann (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• New Beginnings - Nora's POV by Ann (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• New Beginnings - Nikki's POV by Ann (Passion & Perfection).
  
  Original
  
• Part 9 of Echoes of the Past by J. M. Dragon & E. O'Reilly (Dragonjuls' Storybook).
  
  
• The Witch of Greyfriareby by L.M. Townsend-Crow (Sapphic Voices).
  
  
• Part 9 of Echoes of the Past by J.M. Dragon & Erin O'Reilly (Academy of Bards).
  
  
• Part 9 of Echoes of the Past by J.M. Dragon & Erin O'Reilly (The Athenaeum).
  
  Stargate Atlantis
  
• Housewarming by Caitrin Torres (Passion & Perfection).
  
  Stargate SG-1
  
• The Mercy Stroke by Janet's Penlight (Area 52).
  
  Voyager
  
• Impetus by Susan Thompson (Astrometrics).
  
  
• Parts 1 & 2 of Clearing the Air by Karla D Jensen (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Love by Sarah (Passion & Perfection).
  
  West Wing
  
• Say It Again by Cj (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Come Back by Cj (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Second Thoughts by Cj (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Imitate by Cj (Passion & Perfection).
  
  Xena Warrior Princess
  
• Part 2 of A Day in the Life by Onesockbard (The Athenaeum).
  
  
• Anything by Calliope (Passion & Perfection).

The Sun Is Out

Seattle is having "summer weather" over the next few days. Yesterday's high 80s was a bit too much for me and it really sucked at night when the house was way too warm to sleep. Today's drop however of about 7 degrees has helped a lot. I got up around 5am and opened up all the windows and took advantage of the morning air to cool the house down prior to leaving for work. Much more manageable for this weakling. And we even have some quality rain forecasted Monday or Tuesday. There is something to look forward to. Let summer have these heat-filled days, I'd like to go back to my nifty gray, drizzle and cooler days. The June averages of about 65 to 68 degrees is swell. July and August will come soon enough.

Now enough of my rambling, off to your updates. Enjoy 'em.

Elisa

BtVS

• Chapter 13 of Second Chances by rebelrsr (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  Comics
  
• 5/31/07 of Jane's World by Paige Braddock (Comics.com).
  
  Law & Order: SVU
  
• Unspoken by akte (Femslash in Flux).
  
  Original
  
• Parts 7 & 8 of Diplomacy by S. Derkins (Academy of Bards).
  
  
• Part 1 of Birds of Hermes by Alex Gatten (Academy of Bards).
  
  
• Part 1 & 2 of Aria and Talia by Shadowdancer (Sandbox 101).
  
  
• Part 1 of Party Girls by Shadowdancer (Sandbox 101).
  
  
• Love Story by Annina (Sandbox 101).
  
  
• Worth The Wait by A. Hawk (Sandbox 101).
  
  Xena Warrior Princess
  
• Part 2 of A Day in the Life by Onesockbard (Academy of Bards).
  
  
• Thirty Seconds by Twinker Hell (Academy of Bards).
  
  
• Full Circle by Onyx Dispatcher (Sandbox 101).
  
  
• The Bounty by Onyx Dispatcher (Sandbox 101).

Rained Out

I've spent my last night in the tent for a while. The rains have hit and we're expected to have thunderstorms/showers off and on through the weekend. In fact, we had to scramble out of the tent around 5:30 this morning to avoid being drenched. I've spent all day washing the two sleeping bags and assorted blankets because Cal decided turning on the hose would be a good idea. I didn't discover he'd soaked the bottom of our bed until we were crawling into it.

I slept a bit better last night. Enough that I'm sure my 40 year old body could get used to hard ground in time. But I will admit that last couple of hours in a bed this morning helped my outlook today.

Tamara

BtVS

• Chapter 1 of Findin' Love Is Tough, Makin' It Work Is Tougher Part 2 by ftvs (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 5.2 of Grand Theft Auto: The Love Story by Cynthia Taz (Through the Looking Glass).
  
  Comics
  
• 5/30/07 Jane's World by Paige Braddock (Comics.com).
  
  CSI
  
• Building It Up by MBInc (The Athenaeum).
  
  
• Outflux by Eveh (The Athenaeum).
  
  Law & Order: SVU
  
• Part 1 of Past the Point of Anything by gillery (Femslash in Flux).
  
  Original
  
• Chaps by Jove Belle (E-Scribblers).
  
  
• Part 1 of Wavedancer by S. Derkins (her web site).
  
  
• Part 6 of Diplomacy by S. Derkins (Academy of Bards).
  
  
• Part 8 of Echoes of the Past by J.M. Dragon & Erin O'Reilly (The Athenaeum).
  
  
• Episode 31 of Hollywood Dreams by Fiur and Vlamme (The Athenaeum).
  
  
• Chapter 10 of Panter's Pride: Hunted by T.S. Hubbard (The Athenaeum).
  
  
• Two Cross Side by Cheyne (The Athenaeum).
  
  
• Part 5 of Extended Intentions by Jynaki (The Athenaeum).
  
  Voyager
  
• Through the Looking Glass by Trekgrrl (The Athenaeum).
  
  Xena Warrior Princess
  
• Part 10 of As the Xenaverse Turns by Jenny D. Maher (The Athenaeum).

Camping...Sort Of

I'm running out of steam early today and I think it's because I was a nice mom. Last night I slept in the tent with the kids. I put a lot of padding in the tent but that packed down sand was still hard. And to top it all off I've promised to do the same thing tonight. I'm not doing it a third night though. I need to sleep in my own bed or I'm liable to do something irrational.

Tamara

Birds of Prey

• Apartment Upgrade by Erin Griffin (Realm of the Shadow).
  
  
• Finding His Way by Erin Griffin (Realm of the Shadow).
  
  
• Selena's Task by Erin Griffin (Realm of the Shadow).
  
  
• Carolyn's Task by Erin Griffin (Realm of the Shadow).
  
  
• The Task Done Together by Erin Griffin (Realm of the Shadow).
  
  
• Afterlife Lessons Learned by Erin Griffin (Realm of the Shadow).
  
  BtVS
  
• Chapter 12 of Findin' Love Is Tough, Makin' It Work Is Tougher by ftvs (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 15 of Ink Blots by VixenRaign (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 45 of Hope's Drowning (Conclusion) by VixenRaign (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 16b of Waiting for Dani by JustSkipIt (Through the Looking Glass).
  
  
• Chapter 1 of Final Fantasy X-4 by Stormforce (Through the Looking Glass).
  
  BtVS/Charmed
  
• Chapter 4 of Charmed, I'm Sure by rebelrsr (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  Comics
  
• 5/29/07 Jane's World by Paige Braddock (Comics.com).
  
  CSI
  
• Shadow Boxing by amluv (Realm of the Shadow).
  
  
• Part 1 of Breaking Spring by Kimmi (Sassy).
  
  
• Chapter 20 of Exorcising Ghosts (Conclusion) by Ann (Sassy).
  
  Original
  
• Part 10 & 11 of Diplomacy (Conclusion) by S. Derkins (her web site).
  
  Popular
  
• Facing by Soricha (Realm of the Shadow).
  
  
• Deserted Challenges by Soricha (Realm of the Shadow).
  
  
• Shadow Lover by Wolfemeister (Realm of the Shadow).
  
  
• Terminal by Wolfemeister (Realm of the Shadow).
  
  
• Evening Tea by Wolfemeister (Realm of the Shadow).
  
  
• Sweet and Salty by Wolfemeister (Realm of the Shadow).
  
  
• Sinner's Hot Desire by carpesomediem (Realm of the Shadow).
  
  
• Vigil by carpesomediem (Realm of the Shadow).
  
  
• Tear Down This Wall by carpesomediem (Realm of the Shadow).
  
  
• Armor by carpesomediem (Realm of the Shadow).
  
  
• Why Does This Keep Happening to Me by carpesomediem (Realm of the Shadow).

Another Monday

However, this one allowed some of us to sleep in and get one more day tacked on for a long weekend. That felt good! Hope you all got to enjoy it one way or another.

Reminder: if you know of a site that we don't check, holler. We will look into it to see if we should add it to our Grunt's Checklist. The list continues to expand to bring you all more updates.

Speaking of updates, we have a rather large one this evening filled with lots from Passion and Perfection. Enjoy!

Elisa

BtVS

• Chapter 26 of Change of Seasons by pasha (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Ghost by Panda (Realm of the Shadow).
  
  
• Chapter 3 of A Love Beyond the Stars by Dax (Through the Looking Glass).
  
  Comics
  
• 5/28/07 of Jane's World by Paige Braddock (Comics.com).
  
  CSI
  
• By Design by Kristina K (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• A Long Night by Kristina K (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Blame it on the Coat by mirage (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Shadow Boxing by amluv (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Getting Lucky Twice in One Day by Ann (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Fumbling Toward Ecstasy by amluv (Realm of the Shadow).
  
  
• Chapter 19 of Exorcising Ghosts by Ann (Sassy).
  
  
• Love and Affection by amluv (Sassy).
  
  CSI: Miami
  
• Who Needs Dinner by emmacancook (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• 2am by racethewind10 (Passion & Perfection).
  
  Charlie's Angels
  
• A Year of Seasons by Ann (Passion & Perfection).
  
  Cold Case
  
• Blame it on the Coat by mirage (Passion & Perfection).
  
  D.E.B.S.
  
• And She Said by TexasWatermelon (Passion & Perfection).
  
  Facts of Life
  
• Color Me a Season by Ann (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Arguments and Motor Oil by ralst (Passion & Perfection).
  
  Gilmore Girls
  
• Chapters 14 & 15 of Longing With a Cherry Tomato on Top by Nate (Realm of the Shadow).
  
  Karen Sisco
  
• The Colors of the Rainbow by Ann (Passion & Perfection).
  
  Law & Order: SVU
  
• Awakening by racethewind10 (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Becoming by racethewind10 (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Margaritas (Drink Series) by Allie (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Beer (Drink Series) by Allie (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Water (Drink Series) by Allie (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Pinot Gris (Drink Series) by Allie (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Cote Rotie (Drink Series) by Allie (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Brandy (Drink Series) by Allie (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Coffee (Drink Series) by Allie (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Sake (Drink Series) by Allie (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Mojitos (Drink Series) by Allie (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Champagne (Drink Series) by Allie (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Aperitifs (Drink Series) by Allie (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Scotch (Drink Series) by Allie (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Gin (Drink Series) by Allie (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Tea - Earl Grey (Drink Series) by Allie (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Tea - Green (Drink Series) by Allie (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Tea - English Breakfast (Drink Series) by Allie (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Sangria (Drink Series) by Allie (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Cosmopolitans (Drink Series) by Allie (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Bourbon (Drink Series) by Allie (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Perrier (Drink Series) by Allie (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Parts 10 - 13 of Blood is Thicker by Allie (Passion & Perfection).
  
  Murder in Suburbia
  
• Desperate Measures by Gem (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Temporary Engagement by Gem (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Inappropriate by giantessmess (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Negotiation by textfiend (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Balk by Crimsonwhisper (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Knickers on the Chandelier by Jenn (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Falling for You by LoriDragus (Passion & Perfection).
  
  Nikki & Nora
  
• Murder in Louisiana by Geonn (Passion & Perfection).
  
  Original
  
• The Tropic of Hunter by Cheyne (Realm of the Shadow).
  
  
• Part 9 of Diplomacy by S. Derkins (her web site).
  
  
• Holding On by Ann (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• A Little More Time by atfm (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Shades of Emotion by Annette (Passion & Perfection).
  
  Popular
  
• The Harsh World of Adulthood by Okapi (Realm of the Shadow).
  
  Xena Warrior Princess
  
• Part 1, Bloodsword of Darkfall by Kirk Baldridge (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Part 2, Nightstone of Darkfall by Kirk Baldridge (Passion & Perfection).
  
  
• Part 3, Family Ties of Darkfall by Kirk Baldridge (Passion & Perfection).

It's a Birds of Prey Kinda Night

Many BoP stories to read tonight. Have at it!

Tamara

Birds of Prey

• Poseidon by maven (her web site).
  
  
• Hephaestus by maven (her web site).
  
  
• Zeus by maven (her web site).
  
  
• Dionysus by maven (her web site).
  
  
• Sweat As Chocolate, Wait I Mean Sweet... by Preygurl (Birds of Prey Femslash).
  
  
• Confirmed Habit by Preygurl (Birds of Prey Femslash).
  
  
• Out of the Dark by Jinx (Birds of Prey Femslash).
  
  
• Dark Huntress by Jinx (Birds of Prey Femslash).
  
  
• New Beginnings by Jinx (Birds of Prey Femslash).
  
  
• Prayers by Jaycee (Birds of Prey Femslash).
  
  
• Understand by Jaycee (Birds of Prey Femslash).
  
  
• Walls by Jaycee (Birds of Prey Femslash).
  
  
• Pain Is Pleasure by Jaycee (Birds of Prey Femslash).
  
  
• Like a Fire by Jaycee (Birds of Prey Femslash).
  
  
• Clocktower by Jaycee (Birds of Prey Femslash).
  
  
• Doppelganger by Ficmail (Birds of Prey Femslash).
  
  
• Part 1 of Here Be Monsters... by Barbd (Birds of Prey Femslash).
  
  BtVS
  
• Unburdened by Kristjan Brezovnik (her web site).
  
  
• Chapters 1-44 of Hope's Drowning by VixenRaign (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 28 of The Courtship of Buffy Summers by Salix (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Part 5 of All a Circle by pat2082 (BuffynFaith.Net).
  
  
• Chapter 21 of Lamplight by watson (Through the Looking Glass).
  
  
• Chapter 15b of Smut Bunnies by Chris Cook (Through the Looking Glass).
  
  CSI
  
• Disassociation by maven (her web site).
  
  
• Shadow Boxing by amluv (Sassy).
  
  Original
  
• Part 5 of Silence of the Mist (Complete) by B.S. Raven (her web site).
  
  Xena Warrior Princess
  
• Section 4B of To Find What was Mine (Complete) by Red Hope (her web site).
  
  
• Parts 1 - 3 of To Take What is Mine by Red Hope (her web site).