December 11, 2007
The Mic is On: We’re Talking about December Travel
ME Liz Strauss wrote this at 7:00 pm
It’s Like Open Mic Only Different
Here’s how it works.
It’s like any rambling conversation. Don’t try to read it all. Jump in whenever you get here. Just go to the end and start talking. EVERYONE is WELCOME.
The rules are simple — be nice.
There are always first timers and new things to talk about. It’s sort of half “Cheers” part “Friends” and part video game. You don’t know how much fun it is until you try it.
… December Travel
We might talk about:
- Places we go in December
- Travel stories
- Places we’ve been
- Travel fiascos
- Places we dream of visiting
- Places where visions of sugar plums dance in our heads
And, whatever else comes up, including THE EVER POPULAR, Basil the code-writing donkey . . . and flamenco dancing (because we always get off topic, anyway.)
Oh, and bring links about December travel to share!
–ME “Liz” Strauss
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368 Comments to “The Mic is On: We’re Talking about December Travel”
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Joe said
Hey Liz,
Did I make it first again? Second time in 2-4 weeks
ME Liz Strauss said
Hi Joe!
Happy first arrival!
[big grin]
Joe said
The only travelling I do in December is to see family for the Holidays. Fewer this year than last, but that’s the way it goes.
Glenda Watson Hyatt said
Hi Liz, welcome home. How was your trip?
ME Liz Strauss said
Yeah, Joe,
The world changes and that’s sure one of the ways. . . . My son is working this year. We’ll barely see anything of him.
ME Liz Strauss said
Hi Glenda!
It was wonderful, filled with new friends and friends of times past.
Lisa Gates said
Hey Liz, just dropping in for a sec to say hello!
I can’t believe you didn’t see me waving at you and jumping up and down at Heathrow…
ME Liz Strauss said
Hi Lisa!
We were whacked getting off the plane. That three hour delay leaving Chicago meant that the plane didn’t leave until after midnight . . . so sleep was slow in coming and not very comfortable at that!!
I can’t believe we didn’t hear you screaming!!!
Delaney Kirk said
Hi Liz. Welcome back. Timothy did a great job as guest host last week.
Glenda Watson Hyatt said
Great Liz! Digging back in mental archives — what’s that verse about friends?
Friends, some silver
Some gold
Some new
Some old.
Something like that?
ME Liz Strauss said
Hi Delaney!
How great to see you!
Yeah, I’ve been hearing stories of Professor Tim’s wonderful hosting abilities.
Delaney Kirk said
I used to travel to Florida every Christmas break for the past 12 years. This year I LIVE in Florida…and am going to visit friends in the North. Is there something wrong with this picture?
ME Liz Strauss said
Wow! Glenda!
I’ve never heard that verse before. It’s lovely. Makes me think of Christmas ornaments and smiles.
Char said
Hi everyone! Glad you had a great trip Liz. And yes, Tim did a great job last week.
ME Liz Strauss said
Hey Delaney.
Yeah, I think your friends live in the wrong places. Get them to come to you.
Lisa Gates said
I really enjoy traveling, but for the holidays? I really live in paradise in Santa Barbara so we love it when our family comes here.
Glenda Watson Hyatt said
Yes, it does! I’ll try to find the ACTUAL Words back in a bit.
Delaney Kirk said
I got a chance to see Christine Kane in concert in Tampa last Friday. She was wonderful! Get her new CD if you don’t already have it (or if you do, it would make a great Christmas present for friends!)
Rick Cockrum said
Welcome home, Liz! Yes, Tim was fantastic. But you may want to check the larder.
I used to travel back to Illinois every Christmas to be with family. That ended the year we drove home on the leading edge of a snowstorm. Now I drive myself to the telephone.
Timothy Johnson said
Stories? What stories?
If I’m the topic of good juicy gossip, then dish!
And welcome back Liz. We missed you last week. Beau apologizes for the mess he made in your cooler.
ME Liz Strauss said
Hi Delaney,
Yeah, I’ve seen Christine in concert here when she was at the Old Town School of Folk Music . . . her stories are so wonderful. Did she do “I AM the Moon”? That’s my new favorite. Can’t wait until she puts that one on CD. It’s sowonderful!
Rick Cockrum said
Is everyone safe and sound in the land of ice, Timothy?
Lisa Gates said
Ahh, professor Johnson!! I heard you were fabulous.
Brooke said
Glenda -
Make New Friends
But Keep the old
One is Silver
And the other Gold
ME Liz Strauss said
Rick,
I have this image of you driving to the telephone at the bottom of the stairs . . . like they used to have in some 1960s TV show.
I wish you still came to Illinois.
Timothy Johnson said
Yes, we survived a snow day together. My productivity took a dive in the “home office” with the wife and kiddies at home.
Delaney Kirk said
Well I’m off to grade finals. Will try to stop in later. Throw me a Klondike to help get me motivated ok?
Lisa Gates said
Hi Rick, how can you be in two places at once? I just read your post over at my place…!
Hello everyone!
Timothy Johnson said
Hi Lisa… fabulous might be too strong of a word… I think it was Beau that kept everyone entertained. He’s stabled tonight.
ME Liz Strauss said
Hey Tim,
Beau’s okay! You guys can’t make a mess that can’t be cleaned up.
The stories were all good. You’re wonderful was what they said.
Timothy Johnson said
It was fun… I’ll host open mic night any time, Liz. It meant I got last dance with Glenda…. WOW
ME Liz Strauss said
Tim,
You’re closest to the Klondikes toss one over to Delaney would you?
Brooke said
Anyone going somewhere warm? I could use somma that right now!
Timothy Johnson said
Delaney… what’s your flavor pref?
ME Liz Strauss said
Lisa,
You can talk Tim into bringing Beau back. He said Beau wanted to come.
ME Liz Strauss said
Hey Brooke,
I’m with you. I’ve already had blue hands too many times this year for my personal taste.
Lisa Gates said
Well then Tim, why don’t you go get him…(she said, having no idea who Beau is…)
Delaney Kirk said
Any bar that doesn’t have hoof prints on it!
ME Liz Strauss said
Why, Lisa, surely you’ve had a beau in the past? [big grin]
bj said
Hey, everybody! Any mint Klondikes over there? And Tim, sounds like I missed a good time last week.
Delaney Kirk said
Hi Brooke, I’m going on a five day cruise on Saturday to Belize. Can’t wait for some down time!
Lisa Gates said
Yes, Liz (grin) it’s the one tied around my finger to remind me to come to open mic night.
ME Liz Strauss said
Brooke,
Delaney is actually leaving Florida to come up north. She gets confused like that sometimes.
Lisa Gates said
kdunk clunk.
Trevor said
We have decided not to travel much this December as it gets a little too hot here in Australia.
On the other hand spring time is magnificent and we had long wanted to attend Floriade in Canberra (Australia’s capital city). This is a floral display of over a million bulbs like tulips and daffodils and many more. We finally got there this year and I’ve written about it and included heaps of photos on my travel blog here:
http://www.trevorstravels.com/floriade-2007-canberra-6/
Timothy Johnson said
Lisa - Comment 47 from last week will introduce Beau
ME Liz Strauss said
Lisa,
Did that Klondike bar go down the wrong way? [Cheshire cat grin]
Rick Cockrum said
Delaney’s comment should give you an idea about Beau, Lisa.
He was fun. He may be a stand in for the long lost Basil.
Due to the wonders of the internet, we can all be two or more places at once.
Brooke said
Ooooohhh- I was so excited for Delaney - now I am just kinda excited.
ME Liz Strauss said
Trevor!
How great it is to see you!
I’ve been to Floirade in Canberra! It was wonderful! The food and the flowers.
Rick Cockrum said
Hi bj. Hi Char. Hi Joe. Hi Brooke. Hi Trevor. Happy Christmas, Kwanzaa, and Hanukkah.
Brooke said
Tervor -I soooo wanna visit AU someday! JEALOUS!!!
ME Liz Strauss said
Hey bj!
I missed that great time too!
I took a peak and it was a little wild, just as I expected Mr. Johnson’s watch might be.
Timothy Johnson said
Hi BJ, Brooke, and Trevor… glad you could make it… Beau will be here in a minute… he was quite upset that I wasn’t letting him come with me tonight… it was (shall we say) “Cattle-clysmic”?
Glenda Watson Hyatt said
What did we do before google?
Make new friends
But keep the old
One is silver
And the other gold.
New made friends
Like new made wine
Age will mellow
And refine
from http://www.8notes.com/scores/4778.asp?ftype=gif
An old Girl Guide song, but I don’t remember singing the second verse. And I see Brooke already had the words. Oh well.
Glenda Watson Hyatt said
Hi Mr Timothy!
ME Liz Strauss said
Delaney,
That cruise sounds like just what the doctor ordered. Nothing to do but look at sky and water.
Brooke said
I remember that round from Girl Scouts. But we nevver sang the 2nd verse either…
Lisa Gates said
Tim, you still have time to NOT miss your calling. What with the Halloween post and your wordplay, I know there’s a name for that….err…blooger? I mean blogger?
Timothy Johnson said
Hi Glenda… Beau appears to be mingling with the crowd already… want to dance before the floor gets too crowded?
Trevor said
Hey Brooke - you’d love it.
Good to see you again Liz - it has been a while since my last visit here.
Must call over at your blog again Rick - it has been too long.
ME Liz Strauss said
Glenda and Brooke both.
Thank you for the song. I guess it’s proof. I was never a Girl Guide or a Girl Scout. There you go.
Lisa Gates said
Delaney, the only cruise I’ve ever been on was down main street as a teenager. Belize sounds fabulous.
ME Liz Strauss said
Tim,
Beau doesn’t dance. Does he?
Brooke said
It’s a great saying…I’ve known it since I was 5. So that’s….many years.
ME Liz Strauss said
You and me, Lisa,
that’s the only cruisin’ I know too.
Brooke said
What’s this cruisin’ talk? I have never been onn a cruise…
ME Liz Strauss said
Brooke,
We’ve only been cruisin’ main street.
Lisa Gates said
Okay, Brooke, Liz and I will show you how it’s done? Anybody have a 70 chevy nova?
Glenda Watson Hyatt said
Sure Mr Tim, she says with a wink.
ME Liz Strauss said
Whoa! Lisa!
Chevy Nova . . . you were a pro!!
My friend, Nancy, had you beat, though. Sje had a Corvair with a hole through the floor. You could see the street.
Brooke said
ohhhhhh - thaaaat kind of cruisin. Never done that either.
Timothy Johnson said
Liz, to answer your “Does Beau dance” question:
http://www.successful-blog.com/1/the-mic-is-on-guest-host-timothy-johnson/#comment-618377
Joe said
The only cruise I was ever on was vicariously through my partents when I gave it to them one Christmas a couple of years ago.
ME Liz Strauss said
Brooke,
Did you grow up in the city or a convent? [big grin]
Lisa Gates said
You better watch your use of “pro” in the current context…:-) Actually, I had a friend with a ‘57 chevy that had a sunroof –kinda the same as your corvair.
ME Liz Strauss said
Hey Joe,
Where did you send them?
Brooke said
suburbs - and I too young smarty pants!! Annnnd - I did not live in the sticks!
ME Liz Strauss said
Hey Tim,
I forgot about the Fat Tire Klondikes. Are there any left?
Joe said
First to Ft Lauderdale to visit my little sis for a couple of days and then to those little islands in the Bahamas for a week.
Timothy Johnson said
I think so… I believe there was a box or two left.
Glenda Watson Hyatt said
Liz, feed Beau enough Fat Tires and he does anything. Just mind the hind end.
Brooke said
Fat Tire Klondikes? Where?
ME Liz Strauss said
It’s so fun being a smarty pants!!!
We used to cruise the suburbs all of the time. And I didn’t even live anywhere near any one of them.
Mike Vizdos said
{coming out the cacoon of travel}
Hi everyone… it is Mike Vizdos (for those who may remember me). For those who do not know me, I have been lurking and a fan for a while here!
Rick Cockrum said
I cruise the internet.
Brooke said
When you are a hick you go to the suburbs. That’s where the action is !
Lisa Gates said
Rick…do you cruise the internet “holding a fat tire klondike out the cyber window”?
ME Liz Strauss said
Hi Mike!
Great to have you back!
Want a Fat Tire or a Fat Tire Klondike bar!
PS Brooke, There are definite advantages to growing up in the sticks.
Joe said
I’m with Rick, that’s about the extent of it these days.
or 
depending who I talk too.
Rick Cockrum said
I’m told I have to go pick up my daughter. Since she’s doing most of the baking this year, I happily do so. If I don’t make it back, everyone have a great night. Don’t drink, errrr, eat, too many Fat Tire Klondikes.
ME Liz Strauss said
Hey Brooke,
We definitely cruised the city, places all over Chicagoland.
We used to put 250 miles on the car going to the “library.”
Brooke said
I bet Liz. A lot of my friends grew up in the stix…couldof been fuun!
ME Liz Strauss said
Yeah, Brooke,
And we could see the stars.
Timothy Johnson said
After last week, I’m swearing off the Klondikes… I’m nursing my peach-pear Italian soda right now.
Hi Mike… good to meet you.
Glenda… Beau has a lot of surprises from the wrong end.
Mike Vizdos said
… been missing a lot of these and figured tonight was as good as any to get started again. This year has been full of travel for me and (as of this second) I am not planning on going anywhere! I was in Moscow, Kyiv, Budapest, Spain, Italy, France, and about a half dozen other small countries and about 20 states this year (not including a state of confusion).
Chris Cree said
Hey! Is it Tuesday? Good thing the river’s fogged in. Turns out tonight my ship didn’t come in. Again.
Who wants a Klondike Bar? Tonight’s spotlight flavor: Sara Lee Strawberry Cheesecake! Mmmm…
ME Liz Strauss said
Um . . . er . . . Tim.
Beau has a lot of surprises from the wrong end.
????
Timothy Johnson said
Hey, Liz, I already apologized for the cooler mess… what more explanation do you need?
Glenda Watson Hyatt said
no doubt, Mr Tim. Not the kind of cowpies I was craving.
ME Liz Strauss said
Hey Mike!
Sounds like the family got quite an education. At least you’re weren’t in the state of Misery (just south of Illinois, capital is Jefferson City)
Brooke said
I LOVe that you have incorporated Fat Tire into the Klondikes! That is great.
We are going to Cancuun in Feb. I am sooooo excited to go someplace warm and without kids!
ME Liz Strauss said
Hey Tim,
I thought you were talking about THIS week.
Whew! What a relief!!!
Timothy Johnson said
We used to travel to my inlaws (Indiana) for Christmas. The last visit few visits were …. um…. a little too interesting. Now they travel here to Iowa.
ME Liz Strauss said
Um, Brooke,
I bet there are kids in Cancun.
I’m just thinking there has to be.
Brooke said
Um Liz - not MY kids!!
ME Liz Strauss said
Mr. Cree!
Welcome to the OCN . . . as you can see, we’re a little fogged in here too.
ME Liz Strauss said
Oh, um, Brooke,
I get it now.
You won’t be buying any kids in Cancun.
Brooke said
lol Liz!!
ME Liz Strauss said
I catch on after a while.
I think you’re making a smart decision, Brooke. Kids are hard to fit in the suitcase to take on the plane coming home.
Chris Cree said
{mutters} Dang that Akismet. Grrrr.
Ann said
Turning cartwheels into open mic night..Yee Haw! For once I am at the party relatively on time!
Char said
Brooke - that sounds like fun!! We took a kid-free trip Thanksgiving weekend - it was wonderful.
ME Liz Strauss said
Ann,
Are you AnnTexas yet?
Ann said
One step closer Liz today was my final divorce hearing.
Chris Cree said
Looks like bunches of folks are having crummy weather tonight. I’ll take 60 degrees and foggy over that mess any night.
Becky McCray said
Hi, all! Thought I’d drop in, since Chris Cree was offering Klondikes on Twitter to try to entice Connie Reece!
Susan Reynolds said
I scrolled through til Rick was diving for phones in the 60s and couldn’t get any farther without laughing too hard to comment.
Hi Liz, Hi everyone else!
Ann said
No sign of Klondike bars yet, or even a candy cane!
Timothy Johnson said
Hi Becky… long time no chat…
Connie doesn’t need Klondikes to entice her… a pretty pink boa maybe
Susan Reynolds said
PS - ANN is not supposed to get here before me!
Chris Cree said
Heya Becky! Klondikes all around. (I was waiting for Becky before I shared.)
Connie sends her regards. Apparently she’s not wired in well enough to attend tonight.
Ann said
Liz,
I appreciate the email reminder today..I left it up so I would not forget tonight…Hey PEA BRA! Nice to see you
Becky McCray said
Hey, Ann, Timothy, Susan!
Thanks, Chris, for sharing.
Trying to think of any December travel stories…
ME Liz Strauss said
Hi Char!
Hi Becky!
Hi Susan! Howya doin?
Susan Reynolds said
What’s the matter with the world when Connie can’t attend Austin Social Media shindigs and comment simultaneously. Her boa must need a jump-start.
ME Liz Strauss said
Hey Susan,
Maybe somebody’s standing on the end of Connie’s pink boa!
Chris Cree said
I don’t know, Susan. Connie gave some lame excuse about blackberries and limitations. What that’s got to do with strawberry cheesecake is beyond me.
Becky McCray said
Of course, if it’s travel, I’d rather be on safari….
Susan Reynolds said
Hey ladies - and gents.
Ann - the peas have been retired. They were getting cooked too easily. Now I’m just sticking a baggie full of ice in the bra which makes for a really nice look!
Susan Reynolds said
Speaking of strawberry cheesecake, is there a klondike that flavor? I need a treat of a serious nature!
Mike Vizdos said
wow… lots of new people here. almost like going to an old hangout with totally new people
Timothy Johnson said
Actually, I’m “traveling” as we chat tonight…
at least my brain is…
I’m multi-tasking on my next book and I’m almost done with the latest chapter. Just letting the plot take me wherever it wants to go.
Ann said
Feck..do I have something hanging out?
Becky McCray said
And with the ice, you can keep your Klondikes cool. What a bonus!
Glenda Watson Hyatt said
Hey Becky and Susan!
Susan Reynolds said
Chris the story of your life is that your ship didn’t come in, you big story teller! But wait - your wife was a real find, so don’t start complaining about ships
Susan Reynolds said
Glanda - did those blog for a year people close down or what is the story? I am outraged for you if they did.
Susan Reynolds said
OHHHHh I like the GLANDA typo. I have organs on the brain
Chris Cree said
Susan, that I married far beyond my station is no secret. But did you know that sometimes my ship comes in three times in the same day?
Averaged out things’re still pretty good in spite of the fog.
ME Liz Strauss said
Organs on the brain and violins on the heart . . .
Chris Cree said
I like the Glanda typo too. Glamorous!
By the way, Hey Glanda!
Joe said
Is that Glanda Miranda?
Becky McCray said
Amazing how nicknames get started!
Susan Reynolds said
we have a no violins policy in schools and at OCN. You will be frisked at the door for weapons to prevent OCN volins.
Glenda Watson Hyatt said
oh great, I’ve gone from Glinda the Good Witch to Glanda
Susan Reynolds said
Chris - I say you’re a keeper, ships or no ships. But keep the violins down or Ann will bring out her lasso.
Ellen Weber said
Great topic Liz — you must have thought of it! At Christmas I like a bit of magic:-) and flying with the current airlines makes travel more like hectic than magic. So this year I found a cool castle not too far from home. I plan to take my family there for dinner and stay overnight. That’s my story and I hope the magic follows:-) Lots of great ideas for other years right here in this list:-) Thanks Liz and all — you folks are MAGIC! Happy Holidays!
Chris Cree said
{Giggling at Sudan’s typos, “OCN volins”}
ME Liz Strauss said
Sorry Glenda,
about the name change. Things at OCN get out of hand sometimes, especially when Tim Johnson is here.
Susan Reynolds said
now it’s Glanda and Sudan. LOL you guys!
Glenda Watson Hyatt said
Susan, I don’t know what is up with that site. Last time it was down, it was a whole friggin week! Now there is no chance of winning. It had better not turn out to be a hoax.
ME Liz Strauss said
Hi Ellen!
A Castle! How cool is that!!??!!
Mike said
Holy Cow! Bingo Long’s Traveling All Stars and Motor Kings are here tonight! Hey Liz, Glenda, Susan, Chris, Joe, Becky, Tim (may your name always be honored here), and Ann!
Susan Reynolds said
Glenda you _know_ my brain and fingers operate at different speeds and only intermittently at that.
Mike said
And Ellen! (an old feeble mind is such a terrible waste of the thing).
ME Liz Strauss said
Hey Mike!
After that terrific title,
Bingo Long’s Traveling All Stars and Motor Kings
we can allow for a little synapse lapse.
Mike said
Susan,
We’ve all experienced comment #155; some of us more frequently than others…
Chris Cree said
Heya Mike! Welcome aboard this crazy train.
You were part of a demo for a potential client last night. Were your ears burning?
Susan Reynolds said
Glenda I say those site owners have an obligation to at least the top 5 contestants to be able to take votes every day. I’m not so sure the fcc or someone doesn’t have some authority to force them to come clean with details about their operation.
Glenda Watson Hyatt said
Hey Mike!
Timothy Johnson said
Mike… leave out the “holy cow” lingo… Beau will get a big head.
Mike said
Liz,
Bingo, etc. is legendary! As is tonight’s crowd!!
Mike
Becky McCray said
Something disorienting about bouncing between here and Twitter. How did cow bingo get involved?
Glenda Watson Hyatt said
Susan, the foc?
Mike said
Tim,
God bless you for a new OMN legendary callback. Along with regular Klondike bars and Russian Mafia custom Klondikes, Beau joins the cast of regular oddball fixtures here…
Mike
ME Liz Strauss said
Becky,
Cow twitter bingo is the latest rage. Haven’t you heard?
Glenda Watson Hyatt said
We’re playing bingo now? Cool.
Mike said
Hiya Glenda!
Susan Reynolds said
FCC, CIA, I dunno Glenda - gotta be somebody with impressive initials overseeing the intertubes and websites promising prize money.
Mike said
Chris,
I was on a skype call to Vietnam last night, and I didn’t notice anything funny with my ears. I sure hope I helped close the deal!
Mike
P.S. If my ears were burning it was because one of my idols wrote a very nice post about a video review I did of his upcoming book!
Chris Cree said
I’ve never played cow bingo.
Now cow patty bingo, that I’ve played. Right up there with cow tipping. But a little slower paced.
ME Liz Strauss said
Susan,
That would the L.I.Z.
Local Internet Zingos
Mike said
Cow Bingo - the legendary Wisconsin drinking game invented by Phil Gerbyshak - is something everyone should play at least once before they die.
Glenda Watson Hyatt said
lol ok Susan, just wasn’t familiar with the American acronym foc. I’ll just have to find another way to get off social assistance.
Mike said
Chris,
Everyone knows they’re cow PIEs, not cow patties. You city slickers can’t pass yourselves off as cool Cow Bingoers just like that.
Mike
Ellen Weber said
Hey, Mike — all that “old feeble mind” stuff is so not connected to anything you do or write:-) Might just be some of it at the castle though:-)
Chris Cree said
Is Glanda swearing at us? If not, what’s “acronym foc”?
Mike said
Wait. Susan. You mean there are internet sites promising fabulous riches that aren’t telling the TRUTH?
What is this world coming to?
Chris Cree said
Mike, tomayto, tomahto.
We could play “who grew up in a smaller town” or “who’s got more farmer relatives”.
I traveled a long way from those hick roots of mine.
Glenda Watson Hyatt said
CC, not sure if I’m swearing at you or not. Not sure what FOC means.
ME Liz Strauss said
Wait!
Fabulous riches and I missed it!
Darn!
Mike said
Ellen,
I’ve never been to a proper castle, so I’ll defer to your best judgment!
Sounds like fun.
Mike
Glenda Watson Hyatt said
[off topic, like we ever stay on one - I'm importing cds to itunes. Is there a way to change the genre?]
Becky McCray said
OK, I’m probably living in the smallest town of anyone here! and I *am* the cattle rancher!
Mike said
Chris,
We probably could play that game and embarrass ourselves to no end, but that should be it’s own OMN topic! LOL
Mike
Timothy Johnson said
Glenda… double click on the selection in your list… you should be able to override.
ME Liz Strauss said
Oh, the farmer and the cow man should be firends. . . .
Becky McCray said
Sheesh, Liz…..
Mike said
Okay Becky, so what night is the weekly Cow Bingo tournament in your locale?
And how many feet of ice are on the ground there? Charlie Gibson said on the news tonight that global warming had devastated Oklahoma with ice.
Mike
Mike said
Becky,
Amen to comment 189! LOL
Mike
Mike said
I suppose I should ask Tim if Beau has ever called a Cow Bingo tournament…
Timothy Johnson said
Beau wants to play cow bingo… how does he sign up? Or does cow bingo not allow actual cows?
Chris Cree said
Your right, of course, Mike. Again.
On the subject of cows I once had to oversee some cows being shipped to Puerto Rico via ship. Live cows. Traveling. On a ship.
The hired cowboy was afraid of them so I had to go in and give them water. Managed to do it without getting squished too, in more ways than one.
Glenda Watson Hyatt said
Mr Tim, the whole row for one song is highlighted. Double-click where on that? Sorry, still an itunes newbie.
Becky McCray said
Mike, everyday is cow bingo day when you own the cows.
I’m far up in NW Oklahoma, and we are pretty well ice free now. I have a few funny ice pics at http://www.flickr.com/photos/bjmccray/
More from my neighborhood from Rod Murrow at http://www.flickr.com/photos/rodmurrow/
and Liza Jne, near the Oklahoma City area, has some at http://www.flickr.com/photos/lizajne73/
ME Liz Strauss said
Chris,
The picture in #194 is too amazing for words.
Mike said
Chris,
On on yer! Cows are normally pretty docile, but they ARE large objects perched on fairly small diameter legs (which is to say, they’re not designed as sea-faring animals).
Mike
Mike said
Chris,
Good on yer! (I meant)
ME Liz Strauss said
Chris,
Did someone milk the cows? Or were they too upset by the journey?
Glenda Watson Hyatt said
of course Beau can play. We can’t discriminate against the four-legged.
Susan Reynolds said
ROFL at Mike and the sea faring animals. But you gotta admit - floating cows would be something to see
Timothy Johnson said
Sorry Glenda… Right click on the song. Then click on get info. Then click on the info tab.
Mike said
Becky,
I’m guessing that one or more of those ice pictures will show up on my blog over the next few months…
Mike
Becky McCray said
Well, Mike, just give me credit, and I’ll be happy!
Timothy Johnson said
Glenda… I’m guessing that your new genre is going to be “favorite dancing with Tim music” - am I right?
Mike said
Susan,
As a Wisconsin native, I’ve never had any trouble with cows (unless you count bulls - and electrified cow fences).
Mike
Mike said
Becky,
Credit is always given!
Mike
Joe said
All this talk about cows, the only thing I know about cows is when they show up on my plate, medium rare.
Susan Reynolds said
Tim & Glenda need to be featured in a jib-jab dancing video. Don’t all find photos of them for me to use at once . . .
Chris Cree said
They had this customized shipping container. If I remember right it looked a little like this.
Had holes cut in the sides and a place for water. Fortunately it was only about a day to Puerto Rico. I’m guessing it got a bit stinky before the voyage was done. I’m just saying.
Glenda Watson Hyatt said
Thanks Mr T. What IS your dance music genre?
Chris Cree said
OK Gang. It is time for this dude to hit the hay. Becky, this is the only ice We’ve seen here in a long while. Stay warm, my friend.
‘Night all!
Phil Gerbyshak said
Hey - I just got here, and already you’re playing Cow Bingo without me. Still time for me to play?
Mike said
Chris,
The picture in comment #211 is representative of a not insignificant portion of the road traffic here in the Valley of the Sun. If that had been an AMC Gremlin I would have had to ask you for an apology.
Mike
Timothy Johnson said
White guys don’t dance, Glenda…
I was born 40 years too late, musically. I am a HUGE fan of the big band/rat pack era. Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Ella Fitzgerald, Cole Porter, Nat King Cole…
Susan Reynolds said
Come on Joe - admit cows R cute.
otoh, I like them medium rare too.
Mike said
Phil,
Since it’s your game, you call it!
Mike
Mike said
Um, Tim, Gene Kelly and Fred Astaire are calling from the afterlife collect to talk to you regarding comment #216…
Ann said
Tim,
I’m with you..love that music..
Glenda Watson Hyatt said
Well Mr T, I’d better brush up on that genre before SOBcon. I’m more the old time rock n roll for ‘dancing’.
Joe said
Ok Susan, they are cute, BUT TASTEY!
Phil Gerbyshak said
Ooh, I get to call the shots.
8 ball - corner pocket. *missed*
Your shot Mike!
Josh Hinds said
Evening Liz and all
ME Liz Strauss said
Hey Phil,
Go on say it, “COWABINGO!!!”
Susan Reynolds said
Got lots of ice here on my chest, Chris - oh wait - that’s water now - gotta go refill the ice bag.
And hi Phil!
Phil Gerbyshak said
Hey Josh!
Hey Liz - Cowabingo? That’s the title of my presentation for SOBCon08.
Hey Susan - pour some ice in my shot glass. I need a refill
Mike said
Phil,
A8. Check your cards, everybody!
Mike
Phil Gerbyshak said
Zoinks! I needed A7.
But you still sank my battleship Mike . Thanks a LOT!
Josh Hinds said
Hey Phil, hope you’re having a terrific week (err I mean Great — I’m sure you are my friend)
Mike said
Phil,
I’m guessing you’ll do well with Cowabingo at the Big Show!
Mike
Timothy Johnson said
Hi Phil… you blogospheric stud!
Glenda, you’re gonna make me actually dance with you at SOBCon08, aren’t you?
Mike said
Phil,
Funniest line from Bill and Ted’s Bogus Journey! LOL
Mike
Glenda Watson Hyatt said
Darn right Mr T!
Mike said
Hi Josh!
Josh Hinds said
Howdy Mike
Susan Reynolds said
Have icemaker, will deliver to glasses.
Good thing I switched from the frozen pea treatment or that drink would be gnarly.
btw - someone on twitter recommended frozen unpopped popcorn instead of peas - which he got from a friend who had a vasectomy. More info than I wanted so thought I’d pass it on as a PSA here
Phil Gerbyshak said
Josh - I sure am! Thanks for asking
What’s up Mr. T? You hosted quite a week last week from the rumor round the old blogosphere. Nice job!
Mike - Glad to make you smile with a blast.
Mike said
Tim,
I thought we were supposed to keep things ‘G’ rated, unless you were referring to Phil in the animal husbandry sense…
Mike
ME Liz Strauss said
Hey Josh!
Bet you didn’t know you’d be playing cow bingo tonight!
Mike said
Susan,
Three words: too much information.
Phil Gerbyshak said
Yikes Susan, that’s some interesting tips you shared. Almost TMI though.
Animal husbandry? Sounds like I’m on the wrong blog…
Josh Hinds said
Liz, I can honestly say I didn’t think I’d be playing bingo tonight… But then again, that’s what I love about the community you bring together here. Whatever is on tap it’s always a fun place to hang out
Phil Gerbyshak said
I think I’m going to leave Cow-a-Bingo in Mike’s capable hands. I just had to stop by and see some of my favorite people on the planet.
Take care, and I’m off to do the dishes…Husband time (non-animal, real-wife).
Brooke said
Been dealing with cell phones all night! I hate em.
Mike said
074
Susan Reynolds said
See! thats what I said right after I stopped snorting.
But the only way I could get the image out of my head was to pass it on. Glad to be of service :p
Josh Hinds said
Have a good one Phil. We’ll talk soon I’m sure
Brooke said
Now I gotta reboot - sheesh!
Susan Reynolds said
B2
Mike said
‘Night, Phil!
ME Liz Strauss said
Mike
074 ?
Susan Reynolds said
We broke Brooke’s computer. I love your place Liz.
Mike said
We’re playing Cow Bingo and Phil left me to call it!
Becky McCray said
What’d I miss? I went to the kitchen for cake!
Mike said
Okay, I’ll let Susan call the game.
Susan Reynolds said
so it should have been MOO74 then if it’s COW bingo
Susan Reynolds said
We should all call it at once and see what it spells. We’re such a cooperative bunch after all
ME Liz Strauss said
That would be an interesting exercise. We’d probably end up with a word that had no vowels.
Mike said
Susan,
That’s a great idea, although I feel this noble experiment may end in tragedy…
Timothy Johnson said
Bye Phil
Glenda, I’ll break out my dancing shoes (along with a whole lot of lessons between now and May).
Susan, frozen peas… definitely… and have the procedure done while the inlaws are visiting so the guy has an excuse to be on painkillers.
Mike said
Not to worry, Liz. I was going to go with I40 (the old route 66)
ME Liz Strauss said
Yeah, Mike!
There’s a vowel for sure.
Goodnight, Phil!
Thanks for coming!
Glenda Watson Hyatt said
P1
Becky McCray said
mmmmm Spice cake! Anybody want any?
Susan Reynolds said
You guys are too funny.
Another thing we could try sometime, Liz, is the “just 3 words” thing where someone starts the story and each in turn adds 3 words.
Not that we would go in turn ever but in theory it’s good . . .
ME Liz Strauss said
E99
Susan Reynolds said
wd30
Susan Reynolds said
or is that WD40? stop giggling Becky
Becky McCray said
Somebody was starting a Twitter story, with 140 participants allotted 140 characters each. Could be interesting results!
Joe said
We started with cruises upon the sea
For fun and family to give us glee
Then we cruised down the Boulevard
In Chevy Novas that were our cars
Some how or another a cow joined in
And we had the ice, but no had no gin
No tipping of cows did we see tonight
Instead we played games to our delight
Who wins is still yet to be decided
The game keeps changing, so it’s been cited
But Liz wins every Tuesday night
Her friends all love her and never fight.
Berma Shave
Nite Liz
Nite All
Mike said
“It was a…”
Timothy Johnson said
Great one Joe… you are truly a poet laureate.
ME Liz Strauss said
Yeah, Susan,
We used to do that one in college. It was fun!
It worked in practice, but will it work in theory?
Mike said
I bow to your awesomeness, Joe!
Mike said
Liz and Susan,
Ahem. Comment 272…
Susan Reynolds said
Joe’s a gem.
ME Liz Strauss said
Good night, Joe,
Sleepy swell.
Timothy Johnson said
Per 272,
“itsy bitsy teeny weeny”
Susan Reynolds said
potato filled soup
ME Liz Strauss said
Mike . . .
. . . dark and stormy . . .
Glenda Watson Hyatt said
it’s date, Mr T! Now to find my airfare. Cheaper flying to London than to Chicago.
Susan Reynolds said
281 before 280 and it makes sense - kinda
Susan Reynolds said
. . . when the world . . .
Glenda Watson Hyatt said
“clear starry night “
Mike said
So far: It was an itsy bitsy teeny weeny dark and stormy potato filled soup…
…that burned my…
Mike said
Gotta run and pick up my youngest. I’ll expect quite a tale when I get back!
Timothy Johnson said
Mike… continuing on 286
back 40?
Mike said
Tim,
Add one more word and we’re in business!
Perhaps “but” or “then” or “unless”?
Mike
ME Liz Strauss said
Seeya, Mike!
It was an itsy bitsy teeny weeny dark and stormy potato filled soup that burned my clear starry night.
Over at the back 40 . . .
Timothy Johnson said
which burned my back 40, but then…
Becky McCray said
although I expected
ME Liz Strauss said
Hey, Tim,
Glenda put in “clear starry night.”
Timothy Johnson said
I saw that… OK, we’ll go with your version, Liz.
Susan Reynolds said
although I expected . . .much better from
ME Liz Strauss said
How’s this?
It was an itsy bitsy teeny weeny dark and stormy potato filled soup that burned my clear starry night.
Although I expected the back 40 . . .
Mike said
..former President Clinton…
Becky McCray said
Time lag is just killing us!
…someone so tall…
Susan Reynolds said
or I expected much better from the back 40
ME Liz Strauss said
and so handsome
Susan Reynolds said
was the stranger . . .
ME Liz Strauss said
[ Liz whispers to Susan, "More like 'When I was 40, I still had expectations.' " ]
Mike said
Who was really (comment 297)
ME Liz Strauss said
who left me
Timothy Johnson said
LOL… I’m afraid I’m not going to be very good at this game tonight… I have to admit to multi-tasking on my book, so my creative juices are a bit depleted, but CHAPTER 5 IS DONE!!!!
Becky McCray said
Are you picking on those of us under 40?
ME Liz Strauss said
Tim,
What is this new book about?
Mike said
The back forty only welcomes you with love, just like Liz advised earlier!
Timothy Johnson said
Liz - business fable about systems thinking: making your job better without screwing up anybody else’s
Mike said
And does Beau win Cow Bingo in Chapter Five?
Timothy Johnson said
Beau isn’t a character in the book (we don’t talk about the ook-bay around the ow-cay, ike-May)
Mike said
That would be an AWESOME business fable - or a an awesome fable of some sort…
ME Liz Strauss said
Hey Mike,
I think Beau probably loses it, because he forgets to consider the guys in IT when he makes his big play for the jackpot.
Becky McCray said
and who killed Professor Plum in the Study?
Timothy Johnson said
Mike, I’ll be honest, I’m hoping to tag you for an advance praise blurb.
Susan Reynolds said
Didn’t know Becky was under 40. I’ve got kids your age Becky!
Mike said
I’m crushed. Eli Goldratt would have included Beau (but he would have been a CNC machine).
Becky McCray said
Tim, pick any three words from tonight!
ME Liz Strauss said
. . . Professor Plum in the Study
with the rope?
with the knife?
with the candlestick?
Mike said
Tim,
You saw my video review of David Maister’s latest book, right?
Mike
I’d be happy to.
Becky McCray said
B37
(managed to make it an age joke and a bingo joke all in one!)
Susan Reynolds said
Who mentioned love in the back 40?
My dad used to call it the North 40 and the South 40. Good times:)
Becky McCray said
Ah, prosaic pasture names. I’ll never forget Hazel’s Three Quarters South!
Susan Reynolds said
I admit to having a daughter in Feb 1971 - so she’s about to b37 Becky
ME Liz Strauss said
If life begins at 40, what happens before then?
Susan Reynolds said
Liz - it’s all a blur before 40. But my 40s were a great decade for me
Timothy Johnson said
Becky, cow - cruise - Klondike
Becky McCray said
Susan, I was born in Feb. 1970. I could be yours!
Timothy Johnson said
Mike - I started to watch it last week… it’s on my list of the things to do in the next week or two. I also want to hit up David as a possible advance praiser as well.
Have you had a chance to read either of my other two books?
Becky McCray said
Well, Tim, there’s your blurb!
Susan Reynolds said
Oh so true Becky - though you and your could be sister would have killed each other most likely & I’d have been insane earlier
Becky McCray said
I think there are crews working on the railroad near my house. Strange sounds for the dark of a very cold night!
Becky McCray said
I’m the youngest of three, and we drove my mom insane long, long ago.
Timothy Johnson said
I’m curious… the writers out there… those who have published books or articles… do any of you have any strange rituals you go through? Either when you are preparing to write, in the middle, or at the end when you wrap up a chapter or the book or the article….?
ME Liz Strauss said
Becky
Has the thought of ghost riders crossed your mind?
Susan Reynolds said
Shuffling off to catch up on life folks.
This past week has put me behinder and behinder, but I’m glad to be in the company of such fine people for a bit tonight.
hugs all around!
ME Liz Strauss said
Tim,
My most familiar ritual is to forget to invoice for the article.
Timothy Johnson said
G’night Susan
ME Liz Strauss said
Good night, Susan!
Thank you so much for coming!
Timothy Johnson said
LOL @ Liz
Sounds like something I’d do.
Becky McCray said
Hugs to you, Mama Susan.
ME Liz Strauss said
Yeah, Tim,
It’s not the best way to make a living.
Becky McCray said
Liz, I was actually thinking more like derailment, but I suspect it’s a repair crew. Really. I’m sure that’s all it is. Honestly.
What was that?!?
ME Liz Strauss said
Oh that!
That was just my bones creaking.
Timothy Johnson said
What really is difficult, Liz, is that I’ve been struggling with sitting down and writing for months… I’ve re-written the first two chapters more times than I care to admit. I’ve story-boarded and re-storyboarded. I’ve edited stuff that doesn’t even exist. And now…NOW… when I’m faced with a mountain of grading to do… NOW is when my creative juices decide to start flowing… GRRRRRRRRRRRR
ME Liz Strauss said
Ah, Tim,
You should have called when you were stuck. I would have kicked your butt and got you working.
Timothy Johnson said
Hmmmm… pain in the posterior… always a great motivational tool… LOL
ME Liz Strauss said
The proverbial cattle prod . . . to keep with this evening’s theme.
Timothy Johnson said
LOL… and I think my theme is heading off to bed right now… Beau is looking a little wobbly… I think I kept him up too late.
g’night and hugs all.
Mike said
Boy, I missed a boatload of comments while I was gone. Tim, sadly no. But I’m willing to amend my errant ways if you make it easy for me…
Timothy Johnson said
Mike, let’s talk offline… we’re connected on Facebook and you can find my email easily through my blog.
ME Liz Strauss said
Good night, Tim!
Sweet dreams, Beau!
Timothy Johnson said
good night all
John Richardson said
Hi Liz,
I haven’t logged in for a while. December travel for me is just local here in So Cal. I’ve seen the news footage of the ice storms throughout the midwest… yikes. We’ve been in the 60’s and 70’s for the past week.
Are you planning SOBCON-08 yet? I’d sure like to get back to the windy city. I was there about 6 years ago in June and loved it.
The 07 event looked like a big success.
John
ME Liz Strauss said
Hi John!
Welcome! Great to see you! We have only slush out my window.
Yes! We’re working on SOBCon08 and have our first sponsor! We’re trying to arrange a downtown hotel — last weekend in April or first weekend in June. Those are our choices.
John Richardson said
Do you have a theme for this year’s event?
ME Liz Strauss said
Yes, Biz School for Bloggers! YEA!!
Mike said
Tim,
That’s a go, my friend, and I’m with Liz on letting us get you unstuck!
Mike
Mike said
Liz,
Wanted to reiterate how much I thought of your earlier post today. It was sublime.
Mike
ME Liz Strauss said
Hey Mike,
Thanks. I hardly remember writing it. Maybe I should go back to read it again.
Mike said
Yes, you should. Well organized. Marvelously worded. Nothing wasted. Just pure genius. (I can say that now without embarrassing anyone since it’s late and just us friends).
John Richardson said
Man I need a Blogging Biz School… keep us posted.
ME Liz Strauss said
Thanks Mike,
John,
It’s a very special format that will leave you with a working action plan.
Let me know if you have ideas for sponsors. We’re still looking for some.
John Richardson said
I’ve had a good relationship with Smartdraw. They are based in San Diego, and they have one of the best flowchart pieces of software on the market.
You might also look at some educational sponsors such as Follett software which is right in your backyard. There is a huge push for blogs in the schools and they make the number one library software in the K-12 world.
Just a couple that come to mind…
John
ME Liz Strauss said
Thanks John,
Those are great ideas!
John Richardson said
Well off to bed… If I hear of any sponsorship leads I’ll send them your way…
Talk to you soon… stay warm!
J.R.
ME Liz Strauss said
Good Night, John!
I can’t wait for the opportunity to meet you!
Jacob Cass said
Well this is interesting because it is my annual tradition (since I was 1 year old) to go travelling in December / January.
This year I am going on a cruise for 2 weeks around Oceania, and then going to Fiji for a week.
Places been so far…
Vanuatu
New Caledonia (10 Islands)
New Zealand
France
England
Holland
Germany
Belgium
Denmark
Finland
Norway
Norfolk Island
The Philippines
Canada
Fiji
USA
Sweden
Australia (live here)
Next year I am going on a 32 day camping trip around western Europe visiting 13 countries.
Mmmm. Love travelling.
Hope your having a good time.