Home and a Costume Find
Wednesday, September 24, 2003 -|- 11:15 p.m.

Hobbitie is very excited. Foreclosed on my house today. Squeee! I have a house! No more cramped apartment, living in amung the boxes I don't have room to unpack. Will take my time moving in. Refrigerator won't arive till Sunday. Still need a couch and blinds for the windows. I'm half convinced Shelob has taken up residence in my kitchen window. Eeeeeeek, creepy big-ass spider. I knew I moved Sting over first for a reason.

The other day, I was wandering around Silk Road, a local natural fine fabric shop, and looked through their European-made Neue Mode patterns. What did I find, but what looks like the exact pattern for the white, short peplum dress from the second Matrix movie. Exactly, I mean no altering required. (aside from for personal fit of course) Persephone, was that her name? Look at this pattern and tell me this isn't it.
Their main website is http://www.neuemodestil.de. The pattern is S 23085. It's even pictured in the correct color. With sunglasses even.

I was so excited about my find, I joined a yahoo maxtrix costume group to tell somebody about it. A sadly small group (only one other person) but I made that one person happy with my find. And that's really why I do it :)

Avast, Me Hearties
Friday, September 19, 2003 -|- 01:01 a.m.

Arr, today be International Talk Like a Pirate Day! To get into the spirit, let's sing a round. Ye know the song.

Yo Ho, Yo Ho, A Pirate's Life for Me!

We pillage, we plunder, we rifle and loot,
Drink up, me 'arties, yo ho!
We kidnap and ravage and don't give a hoot,
Drink up, me 'arties, yo ho!

Yo Ho, Yo Ho, A Pirate's Life for Me!

We extort, we pilfer, we filch and sack,
Drink up, me 'arties, yo ho!
Maraud and embezzle and even highjack,
Drink up, me 'arties, yo ho!

Yo Ho, Yo Ho, A Pirate's Life for Me!

We kindle and char, enflame and ignite,
Drink up, me 'arties, yo ho!
We burn up the city, we're really a fright,
Drink up, me 'arties, yo ho!

We're rascals and scoundrels, we're villains and knaves,
Drink up, me 'arties, yo ho!
We're devils and black sheep, really bad eggs,
Drink up, me 'arties, yo ho!

Yo Ho, Yo Ho, A Pirate's Life for Me!

We're beggars and blighters and ne'er do well cads,
Drink up, me 'arties, yo ho!
Aye, but we're loved by our mommies and dads,
Drink up, me 'arties, yo ho!

Further AFest Thoughts
Thursday, September 4, 2003 -|- 10:38 p.m.

Learned a few new things this AFest from the wig panel. Like wig tape, which I will definitely try to keep them in place. Wigs do tend to slip a bit after a while. You put a strip on your forehead and another on the front of the wig. They stick together when you put it on. Can also use some at the nape for extra security. Also you can curl a wig using velcro rollers or the pin type and steam. Have to let them cool for a long time and then hairspray. For a thicker wig, or if you have to make a ponytail, you can stitch two or three wigs together. Specially with the cheaper wigs, you can pull the hair through to the top. Anime hair is always big anyway. Easier to draw than re-create. A spray shellac will help keep a wig in place forever. Putting my own hair in a braid for Mutsumi was more successful than past tries. I braided it while it was still damp from the shower and a with little gel. Held up very well and didn't become fuzzy.

Dinners at the con got me thinking, when did I become part of the cool group? Both Saturday and Sunday dinner turned into a huge affair with many people that lasted for hours. Get in the inner circle for a con and suddenly everybody from other cons want to hang out with you. Or something. Weird.

AnimeFest Ups and Downs
Monday, September 1, 2003 -|- 08:52 p.m.

This year I delayed starting my costume for AFest too long. I worked like a dog the last two days before the con to try and get my dress done, but it was not to be. Complications arose and lack of sleep made me emotional. I finally admitted defeat and got a nap before we left. I'm getting old. All nighters aren't so easy anymore. So, I grabbed some of my old costumes.

We got in Friday evening, and got a room at another hotel with a few others so we could bring da puppy. That drive was a bit nuts. We know now who never to get directions from.... At dinner that night I got water to drink. I learned what a mistake that was as it tasted like ass. (Ok, it tasted like a napkin more accurately, but I digress.) And thus began the naming of ass drinks. Tried vanilla Pepsi this weekend and dubbed it ass-cola. (It wasn't that bad, but not really that good either. But better than ass-water. Bleh)

Saturday, I dressed up in my Bulma costume. It's an old costume, but I hadn't actually worn it to AFest before. It could use minor alterations, but it's a good costume. Very recognizable. And let's be honest, being recognized as a character for your costume and getting your picture taken is what it's all about, I'll admit it. We met up with Elfie and many many people for dinner at Sushi Yama. Wish that place was local for me, would go there all the time. Taiyaki is yummy! We love the fishes cause they're so delicious. Go taiyaki-kun! :p That night also brought some very precious gifts. I got Lord of the Rings capsule toys from a friend back from Japan. Merry and Sam, painted versions. Squee! She also has an unpainted Pippin, but possibly had other friends in mind to give it to. I didn't want to be greedy... but, but Pippin! So I said "Can I pay you for Pippin?" Thought about that line a second later. Yeah, that's one for the quote list. Don't send Middle Earth cops after me! No money changed hands. But I still hold out hope that he will be mine. If only I could find one of those machines around here! I know there are some in the States. Anyway, the evening was finished off watching anime with Elfie at a friend's room I used to play D&D with.

Sunday, I wore my Mutsumi costume from Love Hina. Everybody loves my Tama turtle I made. A kid fell to his knees in front of me and sang he'd do anything for a dollar. I said no and he begged me to bear his children..... Meroku in training. Not sure if I was scared or pleased or a little of both... So we'll move right along. Dinner that night also turned into a giant group that took forever to complete. When did I turn into part of the cool group everyone wants to go eat with? Got back too late to rejoin people watching more of the anime I watched the previous night. Ah well.

Monday I was going to wear my hobbit lass costume again, but we watched the new episodes of Naruto Sunday night and got up late the next morning. I like Naruto. From the basic premise, it doesn't seem like a show I would like, but it's really good. There were several Naruto costumers there, including Heero and K from my room as Sasuke and Naruto. There was also a Bug Boy (sorry, forgot his name), Hinata, and Ino, along with several random people with the forehead protector walking around. I want to do a Naruto costume too. So many costumes I want to do... I'd do Sakura so I could walk around with Sasuke and Naruto more fittingly, but someone I know already did that costume and I don't like that costume all that much. Ah well, it's either the teacher, Anko, or sand girl, Temari for me most likely. I think I just want to wear fishnet...

Anyway, we just pretty much slept in and checked out of the hotel on Monday. Can't do much once checked out anyway as then the dog has nowhere to go. Didn't get to wear my hobbit gear. Oh well, did see a girl in Arwen's Blood Red dress tho! Heh. Well I'm home again and work looms in the morning, but it was fun. Maybe I can get more costumes done for Ushi, tho I'll be busy and harder to show them off then. Ah well. Sad it's over. Till next con.

Scientific Calculators Have Fangirl Uses
Sunday, August 10, 2003 -|- 08:54 p.m.

Pervy hobbit fanciers know that hobbits don't age quite the same as humans. So it is a bit confusing talking about hobbit ages. However I have found a solution to the problem. A fanfic writer already did the work for me, concocting a formula for the conversion. I don't take credit for it, the formula belongs to Obelia medusa of fanfiction.net. And yes, you can find wonderful stories there, along with endless crap. That's the problem with such a large site. But back to the formula. Y=0.0025X^2+0.46X+0.6, where X=hobbit age and Y=human equivalent (X^2 means “X squared”). I have determined that, according to the formula, which figures the hobbit coming of age, 33 as 19 in human years (ok, 18 and a half, according to my test of the formula):

Frodo, at hobbit age 50, in human years would be about 29, nearly 30 (29.85)
Sam, 35, is about 19, going on 20 (19.76)
Merry, 36, close to 20 and a half (20.4)
Pippin, 28, is about 15 and a half in human years (15.44) ^.^;;;;;

I swore he was 29, making him 16. Oh well...

I think I now feel less disturbed and more. Frodo as 30, that I can handle quite well. Fine with really. 50 sounds so old, guess it's not really. But Pippin 15? Now I just feel dirty. Knew that my hobbit obsession was driving me towards a shouta con, just didn't realize it had already started. :p

It's rated Arrrrr!
Saturday, July 26, 2003 -|- 05:10 a.m.

I went and saw Pirates of the Caribbean. That was a fun movie. Very enjoyable. Was particularly amused to have a preview of another Viggo Mortenson movie, Hidalgo, right before another Orlando Bloom movie. Heh. Most annoyed I didn't stay through the credits. Missed the teaser for the next movie. *grumbles* This is why I like to sit through the credits. The pitfalls of going to the movies with impatient people. And speaking of impatient, evidently someone couldn't wait for their hit of weed during the movie. Both Heero and one of the guys we were with smelled it. Neither I nor the girl on the other side of them smelled it, so it must have been right in front or behind them. Weird. I live in a strange town. Oh and what is Disney thinking making more movies of their rides? This one was good, but The Haunted Mansion? With Eddy Murphy? What's next, Space Mountain? Oh wait, that was Armageddon, and it sucked! Anyway, loved the bit in prison with the pirates tempting the dog with the keys with a bone. Remembered that from the ride. It's a fun movie, go see it.

I should have gone to SDCC!
Saturday, July 26, 2003 -|- 04:17 a.m.

Reading the reports of what went on at SD Comic Con was amazing. The New Line booth and panel, plus three hobbit actors and Andy Serkis! Woohoo! One of the girls who cosplays Sam from the LotR costume mailing list was chosen to be made up as a hobbit lass for the WETA/New Line panel and was judged by our dear Merry, Dom himself! He's evidently quite the flirt, as if any of us were surprised. You can read all about it and see the great pictures here. There's another report of the transcript of the panel and an overview of that day from someone else.

It all sounds like it was gads of fun. What I wouldn't have given to be there! Return of the King preview! Actual costumes from the film! Dom, Elijah and Sean in person! Arrrrr! *Sigh* At least I have the reports and all the great pictures. And, even better, now an insiders info about a female hobbit costume! Woohoo!

Wait, and now that I think about it, I also missed Elfquest 25th anniversary stuff. *screams*

Quacku...
Thursday, July 10, 2003 -|- 09:37 p.m.

I just watched the end of Princess Tutu. *sob* Why, why?

WMC, I'll be waiting for your fic.

I did what with how many hobbits?.... In front of how many people?
Friday, July 4, 2003 -|- 02:45 p.m.

I've been delaying this post. The situation in question actually happened Thursday of last week, the 26th. Oh dear. Well I decided to drive up to visit Elfie because there was a showing of Two Towers on the lawn there. Long story short, there was rum and live wire mountain dew brought with us to the grounds. I remember leering at the screen at one point after a few drinks, during one of the Treebeard scenes (no, not leering at Treebeard you sickies) and thinking, oh yeah, this is working.

This also marks the first time ever I got up during the movie for a bathroom break. I hate missing any of it, but this was my 5th viewing and well, those cups were pretty big. So I conceded to heed the call of nature.

Course wasn't that simple, never is. At this point I'm rather well buzzed, and standing up and walking is seeming quite a challenge. Elfie and the accompanying Gimli doppelganger assure me there are restrooms just a bit up the sidewalk. Somehow I manage to stand up and stumble in something resembling a straight line to go find it. Walking somewhere you've never been while drunk is confusing, especially when you have nothing to go on about your destination. No, I take it back, I would have been confused sober.

Anyway, I find some restrooms near the tennis courts, and there's already a line. Thankfully the woman in front of me is amusing to talk to as we do our painful little peepee dances and curse at the parts of the movie we are missing. I'm glad I got up when I did, because the line had grown considerably behind me and I'm in quite a lot of pain. Why did it have to be a one stall bathroom, why? After pleading and bribes fail, I finally get my turn, I don't care about locking the door, the line knows their place and I just want this over with.

Eventually I get back to my friends, them having wondered if I passed out somewhere, and I've missed much more of the movie than I would have liked. But now I know to warn them if they want a bathroom, it's faster to just walk back to their apartments :p

But at least I didn't miss my favorite scene. The part in Osgalith where Frodo's eyes roll up and his voice lowers to utter the words "They're here." *shivers* I sat up in wrapt attention and was tugging at Elfie's shoulder in my glee. Oxygen seemed to be oddly in short supply for some reason. I was completely unaware of it, but according to her, guys all around where we were sitting were turning around to stare at me. What, never seen a girl get into a movie before?

Anyway, other than the bathroom fiasco, I had a great time. My friends helped me walk home, and we had ice cream and chatted to people over the computer before going to bed. You can read Elfie's version of events here scroll up to read the whole thing. Ah, good times, good times. Only thing that would have made it better was if Heero had been there too. :p

In honor of book 5
Monday, June 23, 2003 -|- 07:12 p.m.

Finally got my crack at starting reading Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, and so decided to renew the quest to see what house I should fall in. Initially, I thought I was Hufflepuff material. I like what they stand for. But the official website said I was Gryffindor. Who doesn't like the Gryffs? So eventually I gave up my claim to Hufflepuff. But then started taking tests again and talked to friends. Got mixed results. Some said Hufflepuff, other tests said Gryffindor. But I think in the end that I am a....


You are a Hufflepuff! "You might belong in Hufflepuff, Where they
are just and loyal, Those patient Hufflepuffs
are true And unafraid to toil;"

The Sorting Hat! (Which Hogwarts house do you belong in?)
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Poor Hufflepuffs get a bad rap I think. Possibly because of all the houses, I can see their members being the most varied. They're like the last kids to be picked. The other house leaders knew exactly what kind of students they wanted in their houses, but good Helga Hufflepuff takes all kinds. I think that's best for a school. The other houses seem elitist for that. Everyone should have the chance to learn. And above all, I see Hufflepuffs as being just good people. The kinds of people you want as your friends and will always stick by you. And maybe underneath it all, there's another connection, or link if you will, to my other obsession.

That's right, hobbits. I think hobbits are wonderful examples of Hufflepuffs. Nobody expects much from them, but when pressed, they surprise everyone. Sam especially is a perfect Hufflepuff. Hobbits aren't known for being brave, but when frightening circumstances arise, our dear Sam, Merry and Pippin give up their comfortable surroundings to aid their dear friend, Frodo. Sam's devotion is especially a beautiful thing to behold as he supports Frodo through unimaginable dangers. He is, in short (if you'll pardon the pun), the perfect friend. And I hope that I can live up to even a shadow of the kind of friend he is.

One of the walkers
Thursday, June 12, 2003 -|- 09:23 p.m.

Just how well would I do walking cross country for days? Well did something a little crazy that gave me an idea. My headlights on my car have been giving me trouble lately, keep going out, so I took it to a shop to get looked at. Had to leave it there with my home phone number for them to call back (should have had a cell phone, grr). So after hanging out at the half price books nearby for an hour or so, I decided to just walk home and wait for the phone call there. So I walked about 4 miles along the highway. Took about an hour and a half to do with only one brief stop under the shade of a tree. Was hot, and got plenty of honking horns and wolf whistles. Not saying I'd do it again, at least the same route, but wasn't too bad. Got some good excercise, not to mention tanner. As far as excercise goes, I like walking. Running is not fun tho. And I got to notice a lot of scenery I normally miss. It's really pretty in some areas. Was that crazy? Probably. Ah well, I never claimed to be a sane fangirl.

Squee!
Tuesday, May 20, 2003 -|- 12:06 a.m.

Found a romantic little test on WMC's live journal. Took it, and am very very happy at my results. *jumps up and down* Look, look!

Frodo

Who is your FOTR (male) soul mate?
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Hee hee, I am a happy little pervy hobbit fancier. He's so adorable.

I'm also having fun thinking about my new house. I'm getting excited about gardening. Guess my inner hobbit is coming to the fore. Heero wants a pond in the back yard. I think that would be wonderful. Some water lilies, some little koi. Whee, excited :)

Saw The Matrix Reloaded a few days ago. Went with a big group of people. Half the fun of those trips is hearing everyone's reactions. It was fun. The rating is definitely higher on this movie. But it had some great action sequences and unfortunately some bad CGI. It's like Legolas' supermount again. Ah well. Multiple Smiths was fun, tho I keep switching him with Elrond mentally. Heh, don't think Aragorn would like having an army of his father in law running around. The stuff in Zion made me wonder if I was watching a different movie. Was waiting for the crowd to start throwing little pickles at Morpheus as he spoke :p It was for sure a middle movie, we will see where it goes.

Also watched the DVD of My Big Fat Greek Wedding this weekend. It was quite enjoyable. If you haven't seen it yet, go rent it. You won't be disappointed.

Ohh! and before I forget, a little place known as Highland Anvil made the crowns for Aragorn and Arwen from The Two Towers. They aren't on the websight yet, but they are located near where I will be visiting soon, woohoo!

Catching up
Saturday, May 10, 2003 -|- 09:22 p.m.

Haven't posted in a while. Tisk on me. So let me give you the rundown. I'm buying a house, woohoo! That's been eating up a lot of time and thought, not to mention money. I've become addicted to a new anime, Full Moon wo Sagashite. Now seen all of it, and cry I did. Like a baby. But it was good. Great music. It revived my love of anime costuming, so now trying to complete a Mistuki costume before the end of the month for A-kon. Wish me luck! What else... Ah. Work is nutty. Our manager quit not long ago, we have yet to get another one. They are hiring more people, and I wonder if they plan to replace some of us. Nervous making it is.

The faire, the faire.
Monday, April 7, 2003 -|- 12:13 a.m.

Went to Excalibur Fantasy Faire today, my first Renaissance faire. It was fun. I got to wear my hobbit costume again. Went without the wig as it is outside in the heat, far too hot for it. People liked my costume. I find I get two reactions to my hairy feet, either they adore them or are grossed out. One guy said they looked like his :p I got to go thanks to all I've done at work to help out Middle Earth Outfitters. They gave me free passes. So for free check out something I kinda wanted to go to anyway? Heck ya. I ran into a guy in a Larva costume. He was very excited I recognized him, as I was only the second one to do so. I promoted Ushicon. Woohoo, pimpin the cow. Who'd have thought I'd end up promoting an anime con at a Renaissance faire? Heh, I was hanging out with this guy I knew at the tent of the people I got the passes from, and they were talking about this woman. I tried to see, but there people were in the way. I was like, which one is she, I don't see.. Whoa! She was this thin woman with huge... tracts of land. There was debate if they were real. I vote for fake, because those huge things on such a tiny body? Looked like a stripper. Proportions all odd. I mean, there are always the large breasted women at these things, but usually they are also large in other areas. Eh, could have been real, but I doubt it. Ah well, the experience was fun, glad I got to go.

Folk songs and LotR game ponderings
Saturday, March 29, 2003 -|- 06:17 p.m.

Odd thing. I've taken to singing old folk songs as of late. I blame Buffy. See, in recent episodes, an old folk song "Early One Morning," was used. And I've discovered it is quite fun to sing. So, at work as of late, you can find me singing it or sometimes "Down in the Valley" instead. Why are they more fun to sing than pop songs? Maybe it's because they weren't written to depend so much on the instrumentals, but that's just a guess. My third favorite song of that nature is "Amazing Grace." Ok, it suppose it is more of a hymn. Did you know, it was once known as "The Olney Hymn?" My maiden name. It was written at the church in Olney England. No wonder it always struck such a chord in me.

I've been going over the Lord of the Rings roleplaying books recently. Ohh, I want them. Not sure if anyone I know would actually want to play it, well other than WMC, and then who would GM? But if so, which is better, or worse as the case may be, for me to play? A hobbit or a human who would inevitably have a weakness for hobbits? Because you know it would creep in there. My pervy hobbit fancying is too strong to be denied. I can see it now, "Come here, little hobbit, I've got some nice tasty mushrooms for you." And then the rest of the party getting all shirty because I keep collecting hobbits and cuddling them instead of helping out the party. Yup, I guess Sailor Dot had me down perfect in Seekers. When ya gonna update again, huh? I wanna see my character pop up again. :) I haven't even met the other characters yet. Anyway, I think I answered my own question. I'd play a hobbit or risk putting everyone in therapy for years :p

Kiss me, I'm Irish or The Wearin' of the Green
Monday, March 17, 2003 -|- 02:04 a.m.

It's St. Patrick's day! Hope you all are wearing green or I'll just have to come and pinch you. Many people tend to forget about this little holiday, but it's always been important to me, and not just because of my own Scot/Irish heritage. No, it's always stuck out to me because it comes the day before my birthday. I've got no plans in particular yet, but hope to have fun.

And speaking of Scots, Darkfax had a very interesting post today on his Live Journal I'll just go ahead and quote the part here, hope ya don't mind, Darkfax.

Oh...Billy Boyd (Pippin) was in town this weekend to promote this Scottish short film he's part of...couldn't see him on Saturday because of the overlapping events...but friends and colleagues of mine semi-stalked him and found him at one of the nightclubs...they were telling me about the experience...and the highlights are that he's quite short...and so this exchange occurred...

BB: "You Canadian women are quite tall"
Colleague: It's to give men a better look at our breasts (the one who said it is 6 ft.)
BB: "...yeah, those are a nice set of breasts"

:) Heehee. Tho I admit it is what comes to mind when I think of hobbits. Come on, they'd be just about eye level with them. Makes me wish I could have hopped a plane short notice. Heh, "short." Short guys are cute. Tho in all seriousness, I'm shorter.

Our usual Sunday game was canceled so people could watch Children of Dune on TV instead. I wasn't interested, so watched the rest of Princess Tutu that WMC gave me. Ah, need more. Also watched Meteor Garden 2 and 3, the Taiwanese live action drama of the anime Hana Yori Dango. It's amazingly faithful to the original. No idea what prompted the Taiwanese to make a LA drama of a Japanese anime. But hey, I'm glad they did. They do an amazing job, if somewhat cutely overacted at times. The only confusing thing is the name changes. I had forgotten how much I liked the series. Feel motivated to go pick up more of the manga now.

In random news, it's been really warm here lately. Need summer clothes...

went to see a hobbit, a hobbit
Thursday, March 13, 2003 -|- 01:07 a.m.

Went to visit my elfie this weekend. Yay. We went to see a stage play of "The Hobbit." It was great. Mostly kids and grandparents in the audience, but we didn't care. The kid they had playing Bilbo was perfect. He *was* Bilbo. But you know, everyone in the play was safe from our pervy affections. The male elves were all replaced with females, and as for me, well, I adore Bilbo, really I do. But in that family sort of way. I love him as an uncle. He's just not really my type. Fast forward a bit and give me his young cousins though, oooh, yummy. Oh and his gardener. Or gardener's son, depending when in time you are thinking. Sorry, not going near the Gaffer. I'm sure he'd have something to say about that.

Was very frustrated that The Two Towers was no longer in IMAX when I got down there. Dang it, wanted to hear Frodo say the line that makes me all quivery in that amazing surround sound. Tho maybe it was good for the sake of the seats ;p

Got some more Princess Tutu and Full Moon to watch while I was visiting. I really like Princess Tutu. Mute is so cute and hobbit-like. Rowr, cute little boy with no pants. *drools* But aside from that, I love the fairy tale tone and the tragicness of it, tho I can't help but hope it will end happy. I want an Ahiru duck plushy! Quacku

The very secret diary of Peony Brockhouse
Friday, February 28, 2003 -|- 03:52 a.m.

My GM asked me to write up an overview of the last 2 gaming sessions from my character's point of view. So, pervy hobbit fancier that I am, I wrote it in the style of the very secret diaries so famous to LotR. Enjoy.

Peony's very secret diary

day: x of pirate voyage, xx days out of the box!

Managed to avoid the dreaded raiding party. Looted spell components and magic items from the pirates, go me! Was surprised that a plan to leave was already going into effect. I guess I was at the right place at the right time. Must remember to talk to rest of party more.

Escaping on boats. God I love range spells! I so rock. Those elves have good advice considering they aren't spellcasters themselves. So glad we were able to get the elves and dwarves from our island adventure off as well. Pirate ship sinking, and yet there's an illusion masking it. Why? I know I didn't do that. Maybe the last prisoners they picked up are responsible. Did not get to kill mage, am disgruntled. Also, those greedy goblin kids are back, tho I shouldn't be surprised I guess. Turned them into proper dwarves. Hope their parents are proud.

Pockets on crazy coat coming in handy. Am glad, as I question the fashion statement it makes. Gnome picked up more magic items as well and as usual wants me to tell him what they are. Seems he got some charm person watch thingie. It would be most effective in the hands of the paladin. Decided not to tell him this as paladin has more charm than is good for him already. The gnome also picked himself up a cursed item and foolishly put it on. Pink is afraid of him. Never a good sign. Sometimes I think that cat has more sense than me. Evidently the gnome got himself cursed with lycanthropy, but in the meantime, he used the ring's powers to turn himself into a troll and then a dryad. Which led to extremely funny reactions from most of the males aboard. (Except the elves. Not much seems to phase them I notice. Must come from being so long lived. Probably already seen it all before.) Particularly amused by the paladin's reaction. Boy's pretty, not too bright tho. Cleric being quite sensible and got rid of the cursed ring. I make fun of him sometimes, but he's good to have around. Will also have to keep gnome around, as understands a good joke.

Approaching den of evil, I think they call it Stygia or something. What a lovely welcome gate... not. What is it with skulls lately? Ok, don't want to be chewed up. Sending gnome, paladin and half giant over, who finally woke up. What was wrong with him anyway? Oh, and am now annoyed at gnome. Jokes are all well and good, but messing with my casting isn't funny! May have to pants him later.

Anyway, assume fighters are being useful now that they can go hit something, when the nose of this nasty gate starts shooting at us! How rude. A few good fireballs should clear up those sinuses. Am feeling quite useful these days. Think I blew something up in there. Cool. Hear paladin shout something a little later. Why do I have this sinking feeling he did something stupid?

Landing made exciting by approaching zulu invaders and undead. Now I know why I won't be building a summer home here. Gnome looked kinda worse for the wear and rather crispy. Oops. Guess I'll cancel those pantsing plans after all.

Dwarves very helpful in finding place to tunnel through the wall. Would figure it's a cavern. Wonder how they can tell? Am distracted by overhearing the boy goblin/dwarf kid was killed. How horrible! Cleric doesn't seem as sympathetic as I would have thought, but then again, we have to concentrate on getting out of here first before more of us die. There will be time to mourn later. Feel urge to comfort girl myself, but I have to open this wall, and I can't do that very well crushed half to death by crying child burlier than me. Am I becoming cynical? I hope not.

Anyway, getting wall open rather exciting, especially when invading zulu types start following. Was about to close up hole when ever impressively intelligent elves suggest rock to mud instead. A brilliant idea, but does make a bit of a mess all in all. Wonder if I should still close up the hole as it has obviously gotten bigger, if more difficult to get through.

In other news, starting to get annoyed with the paladin. Thinks I'm not capable of protecting myself as a halfling. Wonder what Yondalla would have to say about that? Hello, has he not been watching me lob spells right and left? Men. Grrr.

And it is about now that I wonder whatever became of that mummy we were chasing?

Baby, it's cold outside
Tuesday, February 25, 2003 -|- 05:26 p.m.

Well winter is indeed here. It's odd. Sunday was such a lovely, sunny day. But now, ice ice everywhere! Work was closed today, so I'm relaxing at home. Had some fun looking out the window of my apartment at 2 girls that were trying to chip ice off their windshield with a floppy disk and a CD case.... Motivated me to go out and scrape the ice off of my car (with an actual ice scraper tho). Hopefully that's one less thing I'll have to do later, if it doesn't rain more. It rained and sleeted a rather lot on Monday. The ice that was built up on the car was somewhat amusing. Well amusing in that you could hit it and see all the cracks the ice formed. Was kind of fun to break really. I'm not a fan of the cold, but properly bundled, it can be fun.

I'm excited about my gaming again. I love role playing, but admit that I still don't think fast when the spotlight is turned on me ^.^; In theory continuing playing will help that, but it's still a challenge to try to think on my feet. Also, I've been doing this for how many years now and still don't have all the nuances and mechanics down. Yes I am a gamer girl, but am I a serious gamer? Questions to ponder.

Poetry quiz, blame Truth
Wednesday, February 5, 2003 -|- 10:17 p.m.

I am heroic couplets; most precise And fond of order. Planned and structured. Nice. I know, of course, just what I want; I know, As well, what I will do to make it so. This doesn't mean that I attempt to shun Excitement, entertainment, pleasure, fun; But they must keep their place, like all the rest; They might be good, but ordered life is best. What Poetry Form Are You?

It's a small, small world
Wednesday, February 5, 2003 -|- 01:41 a.m.

Many of you have heard about the space shuttle, Columbia, that blew up on its return flight a few days ago. I remember the Challenger blowing up on it's initial flight. We watched the whole thing in elementary school. This time, I just heard about it from other people being busy with Ushicon. But, I found out something odd from my parents. Seems one of the astronauts, Rick Husband, my father knew. He knew his wife better as he worked with her for a time. The oddest thing is that they gave us one of their dogs years ago. I owned a dog given to me by them, weird, neh?

My mother also said she actually heard a boom that morning, about the time it exploded. And she was not the only one. Spooky.

Ushicon, Ushicon, tho art done
Wednesday, February 5, 2003 -|- 01:20 a.m.

So year two has drawn to a close. I think it went off well. I got to see more of the con outside of OPS this year. Got a lot of loot in the dealers room, thanks to the in-laws for my early b-day presents.

Ohhh, and speaking of presents. WMC got me my very own Sting! I have Frodo's sword! *squeals in ecstatic glee* It's, it's my precious. Oh, wait, that's the ring, but sting is precious too. I have a sword! Be afraid.

Oh yes, Ushicon. We're getting bigger and better and I had a lot of fun. Saw some whacked in the head anime that I need more of. Need more Princess Tutu. My favorite lines I spouted all weekend regarding it are: "Her head looks like a duck!" and my favorite, "He's not wearing any pants!" And that's just the first episode.

I skipped the costumes as I was working, but I wore bunny hats and kitty hats on my head. Amazed a picture of my dog ended up on Fansview... Hung out with some cool people too. Most notably, WMC's friend Truth. She's good people. Come visit again, and bring more Sharpe :p

WMC, Truth and I went to Rivendell again after the con. WMC in her Haldir Lives shirt, me in my I love Hobbits shirt, and Truth, well Boromir dies in both versions, so she just had an Ushicon shirt :p I will say one thing, I will forever associate the taste of raspberry with Frodo now, that's all I'm saying. I was a good little hobbit. I finished all my food down to the last crumb and was done before anyone else. All so good.

Today was back to work, but it wasn't so bad. It was like I had been on a long vacation and I was actually happy to be there. I needed a vacation evidently. Otherwise sting might have been used on customers before long.

Funk
Tuesday, January 28, 2003 -|- 01:48 a.m.

Finally ended my long streak without gaming. And now, I wonder if that was a good thing. It's a slippery slope. You take one step in what seems to be an ok direction, and another and another, and suddenly you're at the bottom of a ravine and you look around and go "How the hell did I end up here?" I'm somewhat revolted at my character at the moment. We are having a bit of a disagreement you could say on choices. But in her defense, even she's not entirely sure how it ended up where it did. I just hope I haven't killed my own and maybe one other's interest in seeing this game played out. And wonder if I've contributed to the shortening of the lifespans of some fellow players. I've been in a bit of a funk about it. Even my usually cheery thoughts of hobbits deserted me.

In other news, Ushicon is eating me alive, or will be soon enough. It's this weekend folks, yowza. So much still to do. Why did I say I'd be a staff head again? Oh yeah, because nobody else stepped up. Ah well, It's good for me I guess.

Pet peeves
Wednesday, January 15, 2003 -|- 10:10 p.m.

You know those little things that just really annoy you? I'm getting really irritated with people calling the second Lord of the Rings movie: The Two Towers, The Twin Towers. Come on people. The twin towers was New York and 9-11. I know it's on everyone's mind still, but it's not the same thing. Orthanc and Bared-dur are not twin towers, just two towers united and working together. They are two strongholds of evil. The twin towers were innocent lives taken out by terrorists. Come on people, get it right!

Evil Joe
Wednesday, January 8, 2003 -|- 11:52 p.m.

Some random thoughts about our non favorite evil wizard. Saruman in the books goes from Saruman the White to Saruman of Many Colours. Sounds like Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dream Coat, which I was incidentally in a college production of. Now, maybe he should go as Saruman and the amazing technicolor wizard-robe. Or maybe just Joseph. Or better yet, Joe. Evil Joe at that. So there you have it. Saruman the formerly White = Evil Joe :p Suits him don't ya think?

The Crones of Rohan 2003 Calender, now on sale!
Saturday, December 28, 2002 -|- 10:15 p.m.

Just got back from my second viewing of The Two Towers. I think I love the first movie more, but I do indeed love the second one as well. There are several moments that amuse me now. One, poor Haldir, stuck in an awkward embrace with Aragorn. You can just see him thinking "Please stop touching me..." And of course the question we all want to know. Do dwarven women have beards? So, all dwarves look pretty much like guys and all elves look pretty much like girls? Is that it? Just adds to Haldir's "I'm not a girl no matter how feminine I look... So please stop hugging me!" Heehee. Actually, I think Haldir is one of the more masculine looking elves. Unlike his brothers. I swore Rumil was a girl at first viewing! Ah well, I should be used to this from all the anime I've watched.

Back when Fellowship of the Ring was first out, Heero and I shared a joke scene that we were waiting to see. When Gandalf throws the Ring in the fire and takes it out with the tongs, he doesn't even touch it or come near it with his hand. But yet, he tells Frodo to hold out his hand, as it's "quite cool." Oh yeah? How does he know? He didn't get his hand anywhere near it! So we were just waiting for him to drop it in Frodo's hand, the poor hobbit yelp in pain and drop the burning hot ring. The old man laughing like and old coot and slapping his knee. "Stupid gullible hobbit." Poor Frodo blows on his burned hand and grumbles, "Stupid old coot."

Now we have no scene from the Two Towers like this yet. But one thing I commented on is all the women of Rohan look terrible. All dirty and mostly old. So, over ice cream, Heero commented on somewhere he imagined there being pictures of "The crones of Rohan" and so the calendar was born! It's all crones, all the time! You thought Eomer and his men left because of a tiff with the king? Well you're wrong! It was because Rohan had nothing but old crones! The only good looking woman in Rohan is Eowyn and Eomer isn't going to go after his own sister, and he'd beat up any of his men who tried. So they left on a quest to find some good looking women! Gandalf talked them into coming back by promising them girls. They should have known better than to trust an old coot. What's he going to be able to pick up? That's right, more old crones! So let's hear it for the crones! 2003 pin up calender now on sale. For those that would actually buy it.

Ah, but back to fun TTT moments. Those elven cloaks rock! Hee, rock. *snickers* I wanted to see Faramir's flashback to seeing Boromir's funeral boat floating down the river. Or at least see his cloven horn. Ah well, I suppose Denethor has those pieces anyway. Maybe next movie. But still, it makes one wonder how he knew his brother was dead without mention of it. Also the horse, Brego, who found Aragorn when he washed up on shore. Without the scene saying that he was the dead Theodred's horse whom Aragorn released because he was too distressed to carry another rider, we have no idea who this horse is. Just some random horse I guess. The only reason I know is that it's in the picture guide. I suppose it will be there for the extended edition. And what is up with the whole "nyah nyah, look Arwen's leaving" taunt? Is it to make us look more favorably on the Aragorn/Eowyn possibility? I do have to say that aside from the fact that everything elven other than Legolas was just thrown into this movie, that I really liked the imagined future of a still young and fair Arwen grieving over the tomb of old Aragorn. I'm still unclear how that whole mortality thing works for them. Have to finish reading the books. Also had a point I had not paid attention to before brought clear to me. I know of the story of Luthien and Beren. The elven maiden who gave her love to a mortal man. Now Arwen is a descendant of Luthien, whom she is said to resemble. And Aragorn is a descendant of Beren. (Eeeew, they're related :p However distantly.) Aragorn bears a ring of Beren. I had heard the name, but it didn't click until now. Nifty, eh?

Let's see, what else? The symbolism of the banner of Rohan falling to Aragorn's feet, beautiful. One thing Heero will not let go of is the tactics or lack there of at Helm's Deep. They really should have had catapults. Maybe some boiling oil or water even to keep the Uruk-hai from the gate. Either way, Heero insists that after twitchy old coot let fly with that first arrow, obviously they weren't out of range and Aragorn should have ordered a volley right then before they had a chance to charge. Could have gotten out at least one more volley of arrows than they did. My problem is still with the ridiculous fancy mounting of a moving horse by Legolas. That looked so fake! Is he trying to be trampled? Come on, elf, who are you trying to impress. The dwarf? And then we are back to Frodo. Poor hobbit is sinking into darkness. I wish he would stop touching that Ring! When the winged Nazgul showed up and Frodo got all woozy creepy and spookily intoned "They're here" It made my blood run cold. And yet, in that moment, I still desired him. I need help. ^.^; Oh, one more thing. I was watching a review of TTT and the host commented on the scene where Faramir threatens Frodo with his sword and draws out the ring on the tip, Frodo backing against the cave wall. He said it looked like a bad prison movie. Hey! Bad image. Hey, scruffy! Keep your mits off my hobbit or you're going down like your brother did!

Happy Holidays
Friday, December 27, 2002 -|- 10:03 p.m.

Merry Christmas everybody! I just got back home from Houston and seeing the family. My little niece is getting big. She's all of one now. Kids. Scary and wondrous all at the same time. The concept of my own spawn still makes me hyperventilate a bit. I don't think I'm quite ready just yet... I know I'm still childish and selfish. No wonder they say being a parent forces you to mature. Somebody has to be the adult.

I got lots of hobbit loot, squee! Pays to make a list of what you want. Now... where's my ribbon-bedecked hobbit? Oh wait, they're right there *grin*

Got a few clothes with some of my Christmas money. Always better to be able to pick that stuff out yourself, you know?

The day has come!
Wednesday, December 18, 2002 -|- 05:39 a.m.

Finally, the day I waited for has come. The Two Towers started tonight. I had planned to wear my hobbit dress, but I have been feeling under the weather and so chose instead my "Frodo Lives" shirt. Saw another girl there with a different shirt with the same message. :) WMC and I arrived an hour early to find the line already horribly long. I received many an I told you so. But what would a simple Hobbit fancying lass know of such things? The place I grew up in is rather small and quiet.

Anyway, WMC brought her Legolas and I brought my Frodo. I had debated bringing Sam or even Merry and Pippin, but in the end I thought it would be crowded, and four hobbits would be difficult to keep track of. So, I chose my favorite, whom I couldn't bear to be without. And crowded it was. We saw Willie Nelson there, much to our surprise. Well, he has shot a music video downtown not too long ago.

After much anticipation, and the quest to get a seat, the movie was shown. I was glued to my seat, trying to hold down my racking cough so I would not miss a moment. I was quite pleased. There were several breaks of humor to the serious setting, many from Gimli. And most treasured, some wonderful hobbit speeches from almost all. The other characters are really shining now. And Gollum, I was not disappointed. I often had Sam's opinion of him in reading, but now, now I really do pity him.

There were things that were missing. Quickbeam and the Ent draught. How will that be explained I wonder. I did see Beechbone catch fire, but he was put out in the flood. Overall, it did end sooner than I expected on all stories. But I'm sure it will be there in the next movie. Dear Frodo had a very creepy moment. Ooh, need to comfort him! He needs the support of those who care about him to make it. He's lucky to have Sam by his side. If Smeagol had a loyal friend, would he have turned out different? I think he was darker to begin with, but maybe. Maybe. But I loved the movie. The music, the... the everything! When the credits stopped, I said "Wanna see it again!" And I'm sure I will.

Getting home, I allowed my horrid cough to grip me once again, feeling very weak. My head is rather sore. We got home and WMC and I walked the Fuu. It's sad, I was so jumpy and the distant howling in the forest behind the complex did not help. Moving leaves nearly gave me a heart attack. I was jumpy, weak, running a fever and coughing up a lung. To make matters worse, we went by the pool and I was about to dip my toes into the water when I noticed a snake swimming in the pool just next to where my foot would have been. I'm glad WMC was there, she is like my Sam :)

There... and Back Again
Wednesday, December 18, 2002 -|- 05:00 a.m.

Monday, the Fellowship of the Fangirls left for Rivendell. There were three races represented. Fangirls of Hobbits, Elves and Men. We set out on our journey at 11 o'clock in the morning with much anticipation. We regaled each other with tales as we journeyed, and almost before we realized it, Rivendell was in sight. Thankful was I that I had brought my camera, for I wanted to document the experience. We were greeted by Gandalf with arms open wide at the door. Inside, we glimpsed the sign "Elves only" over a door. Surprisingly I did not have to hold WMC back. And yes, there was a hobbit just inside.

We were ushered to our little table, tucked away amid the trees and brought our menus. With but a glance I knew what I wanted. You expect me to come all that way and not request my favorite dish? Yes, I asked for Frodo, and was rewarded. Quite delicious I must say. He turned rather red. But I licked up every drop with much relish, to the odd stares of my Men fancying friend. Oh come, D. What did you expect me to do? You could have gone to another table if you wished not to watch. I have no shame.

WMC had her Elf rolls, but surprisingly enough, D did not request Strider. Makes me wonder why she came. I suspect she is biding her time. She said she wasn't in the mood. Oddly enough there was a fairly large selection of dwarves, especially compared to elves, much to WMC's sorrow. But there was no Dwarven fangirl, so they were ignored.

We each had a good bit of dessert, as if Frodo wasn't dessert enough. And after, I explored the hobbit hole and WMC and I had D take our picture by the hollowed tree. We left our new haven to walk the grounds. We picked up huge golden leaves. D and I each kept one as a memento. And we took more pictures and admired the garden and flowers.

Too soon, we were on our way again, our bellies full and our heads full of sweet memories. Leaving is a bitter sweet thing, but I know I will be back. Nothing could keep me from enjoying dear Frodo again.