And without further delay…I graduated highschool for a reason, and it wasn't to go to college.
Pilfered shamelessly from Alyson, but primarily because I'm too goddamn lazy to actually write anything.
Writing Tips1. Do not get side-tracked. If onions are the most consumed vegetable in the world, why are fire engines red?
2. Avoid starting sentences with a non-specific pronoun. It is not a good way to begin.
3. Prepositions are words you should not end sentences with.
4. Avoid clichés like the plague. Now ain't that the pot calling the kettle black.
5. Keep away from ampersands & abbreviations, etc. within the body of the text.
6. Parenthetical remarks are unnecessary (and should be avoided).
7. It is wrong to ever split an infinitive.
8. Contractions shouldn't appear in your paper.
9. Foreign words and phrases are not apropos or chic.
10. Like most people, one should never generalize.
11. Eliminate quotations. As Mark Twain once said: ''Quoting the witticisms of others only shows the lack of quotable wit."
12. Comparisons are as bad as clichés.
13. Do not be redundant; do not use more words than necessary; it is very excessive.
14. Profanity sucks.
15. Be more or less specific.
16. Understatement is always best.
17. Exaggeration is a million times worse than understatement.
18. Can I use one-word sentences? No.
19. Analogies in writing are like feathers on a snake.
20. The passive voice is to be avoided.
21. Go around the barn at high noon to avoid jargon or gibberish.
22 Who needs rhetorical questions?
23 Be careful to use apostrophe's correctly.
24. Do not use them pronouns as modifiers.
25. And never start a sentence with a conjunction. And, but, and or will not get you very far.
Stuck under random crap by James at 11:44 PM
I'd blame Pixie for this outright, butI probably owe her for apparently forcing her to do this some time ago. Which reminds me–remember when I said your turn's coming, Stacie?
And without further delay…
Things I can do, a list by me:
Play piano and
Attempt to play guitar and
Sing fairly decently and
Be a sounding board for just about anyone and
Not actually strangle the stupid people that interfere with my life and
Make potentially life-altering and long-term decisions and not get oerly stressed about it and
Find a song for just about any mood/situation and
Write a song for most occasions and
Tell a lot about a person before they say a thing and
Do all of this while the overall pace of my life seems to pick up two-fold…
Not much to the list, but my brain is currently not functional enough to think anymore. All are encouraged to toss this up on their own blogs if they have one, or leave it in a comment. Or even both!
Stuck under quizes by James at 6:15 PM
Phoenix gets a dud, and we get another 4th-liner. But we no longer have a dud! I already opinionated about it on Mike's blog, but it deserves to be said again. No more Tellqvist can only be a good thing. Which is more than I can probably say for mister Tellqvist…
Stuck under Coyotes, maple leafs by James at 5:37 PM
Quebec must have gotten what they wanted, and ended up being recognised as a bloody nation in and of itself. Well, on the bright side, now that leaves the door open for the next government to take away any federal assistance they've been getting, just like any other province in Canada's been getting. When I said I wouldn't notice, I must not have taen into account there'd be all manner of cellebrating in the house of commons, the type of which apparently needs to be headlined. Hm… are they cellebrating because Quebec is finally a nation, or because Quebec is finally not Canada's problem? Jurry's still out…
Stuck under fubars, politics, rantings by James at 2:27 PM
I can tell today is already going to be the day from hell, and it's only coming up on 10:30. The obvious indicator of it should have been when the phone started ringing more often for my way too soon to be sister-in-law than for anyone who actually lives here. Not helped was it by the fact her damn dog reminds me very much of those kids you just wanna tie to a chair and inject with the heaviest sedative going until their parents come to collect them, which in and of itself is going to be still way too far away from now. I just hold my breath, count to 10, thank the gods I move in 4 days–starting to count hours, now, too–and wait for the inevitable screw-up that will no doubt result in my sister-in-law being given the choice of either finding that damn dog a home or having it shot. I love my family, but there are a few members I could stand not to see for a good long time. She's becoming one of them.
And in other news… I officially kick myself for picking the apartment I did. There's gonna be a fair bit of walking involved in finding my bus stop. Not good if you're a lazy fuck, and well, I am. And it's gonna be a uber bitch come the days of 20 below. Ah well, can't have it all. Good job, good apartment, decent city, so of course the location's gonna turn out crappier than it looks. Then again, that's why they invented carpooling. Or I can always, you know, take my own advice and stop bitching, suck it up and walk, dammit. But, no. It's my blog, I'll bitch if I goddamn well wanna bitch. Then I'll suck it up and walk.
This unusual combination of topics brought to you by boredom. Screwing people out of being distracted/entertained for longer than I care to guess at.
Stuck under Moving, employment, family, fubars, rantings by James at 10:27 AM
Is really making me reconsider whether or not I want kids. It's a good thing I don't plan to sleep. Too bad same can't be said for my parents, who planned to be on the road for Ottawa tomorrow by 5:30 tomorrow.
Stuck under rantings by James at 11:12 PM
As we do every year, a good portion of my family–that being a couple of my aunts, a few cousins, my mom, me, and now my future sister-in-law–took in the traditional Pembroke parade tonight, the first time in a long time they actually held the parade in the evening. Not that it was anything too noteworthy, other than the change in time… there was the occasional interesting float, but for the most part, the parade was a little bit on the meh side. I might have been better off going to the one in Ottawa, but of course, that was last week. And there was only one band to start off the thing. Even when compared to last year's parade, this one was a bit disappointing. Also disappointing, though, was that it was the first or second time my sister-in-law had actually been to one of these, and she's lived here as long as or longer than me. Although, I think it's more disappointing that the first or second one she's ever been to sucked so bad as this one. On the bright side, though, at least the parade's suckage wasn't compounded by a loss of feeling in the extremeties, as most often is the case. I just wish that did something for the actual enjoyment factor.
Stuck under family, musings, only in pembroke, rantings by James at 11:41 PM
The one good thing I can find to take out of tonight's game against Boston? Sundin's back, and scoring. Still. A powerplay goal in the third period, spoiling what would have ultimately been a shutout. Otherwise, though… well, they don't seem to be improving any in the back to back games situation, wherein they've so far lost, I believe, every single one of the game 2's of said back to back nights. But, on the up side, there be a rematch on Tuesday. The two days off will hopefully give the Leafs the room to win. Hopefully.
Stuck under Bruins, maple leafs by James at 11:21 PM
I missed the part where they jumped out and snagged a win, but this was still awesome to watch. O'course, there's at least one individual out there who disagrees with me, but eh, I think I'd die of shock if no one did. See, kids–this is what happens when you put your future in the hands of one player. The other 22 or so fall asleep. And even Alexander Ovechkin can't carry your team. Particularly when he's too busy being shut down. By the way… I thought he was good?
Stuck under Capitals, maple leafs by James at 1:09 AM
Okay, so… I can understand older people wanting to at least look younger. But when your 30 years old, or thereabouts, it *probably* isn't a good idea to be trying to make yourself look good with your hair done up in pink elastics. At least, not to the extent where you're trying to rival some of my cousins. Sure, you can make yourself look younger… but… 6? Seriously? Even for Pembroke that's overdoing it me thinks.
Stuck under only in pembroke, oops, random crap by James at 4:17 PM
Because people have been asking. There's absolutely not a damn thing that's changed since the last time I mentioned it, though. I'm still waiting for paperwork to land in my mailbox. Paperwork that I was told would be there by early this week at the latest. Well, now it's a little tiny bit past early this week, and the HR person I've been in contact with is apparently out of the office until early *next* week. Needless to say, she got yet another email from me–and another phone call–and I'm about 30 seconds from calling the guy that originally was the one handling my file. Why they keep transfering me from one HR person to the next, though, is beyond me. But they do. So now, I'm a week away from moving to Ottawa, and I'm really no closer to having landed this job. And if I lose the deposit on this apartment, I'm *really* going to be significantly less than impressed with these people.
Stuck under Moving, employment, fubars, rantings by James at 2:12 PM
The US has apparently finally wisened up, it looks like. Either that or Slashdot is misinforming everyone. Apparently, you are now able, and legally permitted, to break the software lock your cell phone has when you buy it through a specific provider. As if I haven't said it enough already–it's about goddamn time. Now, I'm wondering how far behind that Canada's gonna be. My guess is not very, but… it's Canada. Don't quote me on that. Ah well, on the up side, though, it does kind of reinforce my opinion on most/all things copyright and restrictive. Finally I don't need to switch providers to get a cell phone I actually like! Um… not that I care about the latest in camera phones, but eh.
Stuck under musings by James at 12:31 PM
Of course, he's still more than welcome to give it a try, don't get me wrong. I just don't expect it to do much, except maybe put the PR man's reputation at risk. Although, I do like this comment.
He's Jewish. He's not anti-Semitic at all.
Yes, because Gewish folks aren't capable of it, right? Okay, never mind. Even if there was help for him, with a comment like that, you have to wonder if maybe there's not a chance in hell of this particular PR person saving his rear anyway.
Stuck under oops by James at 12:24 PM
So first, Quebec is a nation. Then, Quebec is not actually a nation, just its own separate entity within Canada. Then, it's a nation as a society or however the hell the liberals kinda half-assed put it as. And now, thanks to mister Harper, we're back to quebec is a nation within Canada again. I really wish people would make up their minds–then actually do something about it. Like, you know, give Quebec its status as a nation, then politely tell them to butt the fuck out of the rest of Canada's affairs. I already mentioned my feelings regarding that, but this latest bout of stupidity warrants a second mention. Sure, okay. So let Quebec do the being its own nation thing. Except… where they expect to still have a say in Canada's policies as a whole, tell 'em to stuff it. They've been kicking and screaming for years to be able to do their own thing. I honestly probably wouldn't notice one way or the other if it actually happened that way. Except, perhaps, the little kids screaming in the back will shut up.
Stuck under politics, rantings by James at 12:14 PM
They shouldn't have lost, but that aside, it was still better than sitting in the kitchen while the women (there were, after all, mostly women there) all talked about things I really didn't want to hear about. We're going to ignore the 2 empty net goals at the end of the game and kinda pretend like they didn't exist. And then we're all going to line up and take turns slapping mister Caberle upside the head for being a fool and not clearing the freakin' puck, leaving Raycroft to try it and well, apparently he's not very good at clearing it either because it ended up in the bloody net. The good news, though, the game could have gone either way. The bad news was it didn't go the way it was supposed to. Ah well, there's always Friday, when they gang up on Washington. And now, maybe someone can tell me why they felt the need to extend our beloved GM's contract? At least, this early in the season… could they not wait until we've managed to get into the playoffs? Bleh…
Stuck under Sabres, family, maple leafs, rantings by James at 11:43 PM
It's bloody amazing the things a person can find out when they're not actually doing the work. A friend of mine (that's how you shall be referred to on here 'til you tell me whether or not I can use your actual name, hun, sorry) was doing an essay for a college english course, and the topic was blindness, and whether or not it should be considered a disability. Now, admitedly part of me kinda suspects she picked that topic because she had a bit of an unfair advantage, but hey, whatever works. 
Well, in going through the essay with her, kinda helping her to correct it before she handed it in today, I discovered something a little surprising, and a little disturbing. In the span of maybe a week, she'd not only found a fair bit of information I knew about and used on a daily basis, but she uncovered a few things I pretty much had no clue about. Now, I dunno if that says more about her research abilities or my questionable ones, but… still. The essay must have been a good one, if it managed to teach a blind person a thing or two about blindness, no? It was *her* essay, for *her* english class, and I think in some ways, I ended up learning almost as much as she did. That's not fair! I haven't been in college now for damn near 3 years…. I dun wanna start now! LOL
And now, I go finish getting ready to go to a cousin's birthday party… *mutter mutter mutter* 20 freakin' years old, and she's still been reminding everyone for the last week and a half that her birthday's today. Did she expect 50 screaming kids and a birthday party, perhaps? I guess I aughta make a showing, anyway. Since it sounds like not many people are gonna be doing that. Mm, maybe I'll get lucky and at least one other person will have the hockey game on that I'll be missing otherwise. Why couldn't her birthday be on Tuesday…
Stuck under Hockey, family, musings, random crap, rantings by James at 4:20 PM
I probably wouldn't, at least just yet–I mean, it was a win, but I wouldn't necessarily be calling it a *good* win. Most of the scoring came in the first period, and come the second and third it was looking more and more like that win would be a loss after all. I never thought I'd say it, but if it was easy enough for even Belak to get a point in the game, even if it was just an assist… then it should have been a hell of a lot easier to pull off a win than it was. I already threw a fit about his being re-signed in the first place. The guy's useless, except maybe as a very minor enforcer type. So if even he can manage to pick up an assist in the game last night, you would think that'd be an indicator for how the game's gonna go. Boy would you have been wrong. I'll never stop being a Leafs fan, but I'll never enter a hockey pool where they're involved, either. Not betting for them, anyway.
Stuck under Islanders, maple leafs by James at 6:19 PM
You Are 23% Perfectionist Occasionally you have perfectionist tendencies, but overall you're pretty normal.
You're sometimes hard on yourself, but you usually focus on what you're doing right!
Stuck under quizes by James at 4:15 PM
Another sign things are starting to pick up, and in an aweful damn hurry at that. My brother's fiance, who's actually currently sitting in our kitchen as I write this, is now… well, rather pregnant. She just found out a couple days ago, apparently. Ironicly, this two weeks after they got engaged, more or less, and just about as long after he went off for basic training. It's amuzing, in a way… they were talking about setting a wedding date, then that happened. And now, surprise–I'm gonna be an uncle at 24. And mom to be has already been warned, 'tis my job to spoil the royal hell outa that kid.
I may not be taken by then, kids may not be on my list of priorities by then, but damn I'm gonna have fun with someone else's. And if s/he gets too outa hand, well, that's when ya send 'em back to mom and dad. Let them deal with the little brat while I sit back and just snicker. I'm so gonna be the family member all the parents hate but the kids just love. 
Stuck under family by James at 6:28 PM
I've mentioned before I need furniture for the apartment. There isn't anyone in my family who isn't aware of that. I mean, they've all seen my stuff. I can fill a bedroom just fine, but… heh, I've never had my own place before, so filling the rest of it will require some creativity. Or a mother looking for a bar fridge. My parents bought me a minifridge last Christmas, because… well, I buy a lot of my own stuff, and if it goes in the family fridge, it's lible to get eaten before I can get to it–that was true mostly when my brother was home. But, since the place I'm moving into comes with a fridge, and there will be no brother to eat what I don't get to, I have no use for the one sitting on the other side of the room as of once I move out. I've offered to give it to my parents before, since you know, they're the ones who bought the thing for me and it'd save them going out and buying a second fridge to put in their bar when they've got one that won't be used in 2 weeks anyway. And now, we've decided on a trade, of sorts. She gets the fridge, and I get a new kitchen set. Can't complain with that one, really. I mean, still gotta sit on the floor to watch TV, but at least I've got a place to eat! And one less thing I have to spend my money on. I love my mom.
Stuck under Moving, family, musings by James at 2:14 PM
Take a look at last night's lack of an impressing score, and you'll know very well what I mean. I'm sorry, but we could have, and should have, won that game. Except for the fact we didn't play. We just kinda… sat there and hoped the puck would somehow find the back of the net. Which is not gonna happen when you've got a goalie like that playing for the other team, but that small little factoid didn't seem to stick with them. And they were doing so well, too…
Stuck under Devils, maple leafs by James at 1:51 PM
On the bright side, though, those of you who actually thought I'd be offline for upwards are a month will be pleased–or, perhaps, not–to know it'll only be a week or less. So, yay small fortunes! Or… something. I went into Ottawa yesterday, as I threatened to, and finally got to the signing of the lease. Of course, then we didn't stop there, so spent an hour or two in the afternoon doing a little browsing. Hey, I hate shopping as much as the next person, but I needed furniture. Still do, in fact. So shush already. And somewhere in the insanity that is productiveness, I set up my cable instalation and whatnot, so I *will* have TV the night I move in. Which means I will absolutely not be missing Saturday's hockey game. Unless the bastards put a Senators game on instead, at which point someone will be cursed out to no end. I meant to write this entry last night, but by the time I got home, got everything sorted out, and all that, I was about ready to pass out. So, I kinda half-assed my way through the last entry, shot the shit with a couple people over IM, and then promptly passed out. And now, I go make, find, or invent food. Then finish setting things up for the move. Yay not having a shortage of things to do.
Stuck under Moving, musings by James at 12:41 PM
I'd go into detail, but… to tell the honest to god truth, we just plain sucked, end of story. Blarg. But, on a somewhat positive side, I suppose, if you can call it a positive side, we did manage to win 4 in a row before promptly doing our best immitation of the other team. But, we did get at least a point in 5 straight games. And our next game *is* tomorrow, so there is an opportunity to redeem ourselves. Not that I'm holding my breath, but I could wind up surprised. In the meantime, though… I have another entry to write, and then it's off haunting my usual blog hangouts. But first, I update Firefox, and try to get the memory of yesterday's game out of my mind.
Stuck under Bruins, maple leafs by James at 9:49 PM
Assuming I can scrounge up the $$$ for it, that is, this is something I could find a use for. Start moving some of my MP3's off this computer… or, hell, just stick the screenreader I use on the thing so I can start fixing other people's computers without having to reauthorize. 'Cuz I just hate that. Merry Christmas to me…
Stuck under musings by James at 8:09 PM
An obligatory update, in which I basicly say nothing. Because it was all said at like 1:00 this morning. And after hanging around my usual blog reading haunts, I'm finding little else to say–except, that is, that some of you people need to blog more. If I can manage 3 and 4 posts a day (today is the exception, remember?), then dammit so can all of you. Gimme somethin' to read! … Okay I'm over it now.
Stuck under random crap by James at 5:31 PM
And I should so be in bed by now, but I'm just… well, sleep isn't happening any time soon. And no, it's not because of the half empty can of coke sitting to my left. Although I suspect that probably won't exactly serve to be a sleep aid. So what has me up at this otherwise ungodly hour? Well, for once, it's not talking to a certain very interesting young lady (more on that when I figure out exactly what's going on). Rather, I did in fact get stuff faxed off. And then I got dragged around the mall for an hour or so while my apparent future sister-in-law (by the way, damn) looked at wedding related things. Then we went to another store, where I started pricing out kitchen sets and the like–yes, I'm going to need furniture. Anyone willing to contribute to the "fill James's apartment" fund can do so at their own leasure. I accept all forms of major creditcards, checks, money orders, cash… or you can just buy me things! *nods* 
So, we're looking at one of said kitchen sets, when my cell phone rings. Now, this is like 7:30 or 8:00 at night, mind you, so I'm thinking it's nothing too terribly important–just someone wanting to shoot the shit, that kinda thing–and am about ready to tell them I'll talk to them probably online when I get home. It's a good thing I didn't, though, because it was the phone call that pretty much cieled the deal. I am now the proud rentee of an apartment in Ottawa. The lease gets signed this Friday. Two weeks from then is moving day. And in between now and then, I still have a whole shitload of things to do. I may decide at some point to probably pilfer one of Stacie's ideas, and throw a to-do list up here at some point, just so I don't end up forgetting something. O'course, that doesn't guarantee I won't forget anyway, but at least the next time I look at this thing then I can soundly kick myself for forgetting, and then go about the business of remedying that situation. I'm going to have quite the busy couple weeks… and it's all gonna start tomorrow. And the once half empty can of coke is now empty, which means I should be attempting sleep. Good gawd, the prospect of having something akin to a routine is gonna kill me.
Stuck under Moving, employment, family, musings by James at 1:16 AM
The most progress I've ever made so far has been made today. I have now in my hands their official letter of offer. Well, as official anyway as it can be without the rest of the paperwork that's ordinarily supposed to come with it. Which means, after getting something resembling food into me, I shall spend the next hour or so faxing crap, and generally… being all manner of productive. Shocking as it is, it's very relaxing, in a way. Or maybe I'm just being a sadist. That's a distinct possibility too. Either way… the apartment–and the job–is mine! Mwa!
Stuck under Moving, employment by James at 5:32 PM
It might be. My haunting of people's voicemails has paid off, in that I am now apparently about to receive at least a letter of offer from them. They'd originally wanted to send it with the rest of the paperwork either this weekend or early next week. Not bad, except I need something today. Well, actually, I need something yesterday–but who's counting? So, now it would appear they're smartening up, and sending me at least proof that they are in fact wanting to hire me. So, as soon as I get that letter in my otherwise empty inbox, I'm out the front door and to the nearest fax machine. And hopefully, this puts an end to my search for an apartment. At least until I move somewhere else in 6 months.'
Stuck under Moving, employment by James at 1:55 PM
From Techdirt, proof the US government is just now catching on to what everyone, including the media, police, and all manner of other people have known for freakin' ages–there is actually porn online! And in related news, scientists have confirmed the sky is actually blue. Idiots. Very much deserving of the award. I think the national IQ level just dropped 15 points…
Stuck under fubars by James at 10:37 PM
Surprisingly enough, or, perhaps, not so, this is beginning to take on a rather striking resemblence to the last time I tried to get myself a place, a job, and moved in all in the span of less than a week. Except, at least now the apartment's been put on hold for me. But, on hold does not a secure rental agreement make, and we can't do that without some kind of piece of paper from these people who wanna pay me that says they actually wanna pay me. So, apartment people have a cheque and a rental application, I have the money and a copy of the rental application, and people I'm technically employed with now have two voice messages waiting for them. Sounding familiar yet? Blah, they should already have the paperwork done up… it's just a matter of attaching it to an email, hitting send, and sitting back and waiting for it to be sent back to them. It takes 30 seconds. So it should not be taking upwards of now 24 hours. If I lose this deposit, the shit will hit the fan…
Stuck under Moving, employment, fubars, rantings by James at 12:41 PM
It's entirely possible. I now officially have a 98% chance of landing an apartment in Ottawa at the beginning of December. Everything's been taken care of now, all I need now is to get a hold of Dell, get my paperwork, fax crapola back to them, and fax my letter of offer to the apartment complex thingy thing. And then, 12/1/2006 = movin' day. And 10 days after that, I start. Now, let's hope things don't fall through, as they're wont to do. Often.
Stuck under Moving, employment by James at 8:15 PM
Not only did we manage to whoop up on the Canadians in an awesome go, but we've done it in style. And, we did it moving our winning streek to 4, which is the best so far we've done all season. And as I watch the highlights of the afore mentioned whooping up on, I only have one thing to say. Habs fans–you need to find yourself a new team. Might I suggest Toronto?
Stuck under Canadians, maple leafs by James at 10:08 PM
You Date Like a Woman According to studies on dating, you date like a woman.
You tend to take romance seriously, and you're not really out for a fling.
A mental and emotional connection always comes first for you.
And rushing the physical stuff is likely to turn you off.
You're highly selective when it comes to dating, and some may say you're too picky.
You know what you want, and when you find it, you're ready to commit.
Um… okay? I guess as opposed to the traditional stereotypical response… I… guess. 
Stuck under quizes by James at 2:40 PM
Ordinarily, I don't really pay much mind to the whole rememberence day thing. I mean, I know its importance and everything, but I suppose until recently, it just… never really made much of a difference from where I sat. So what's changed? Well, before, the only people I might possibly have known who I felt deserved this day, I never actually met. One of those was my great grandfather, who died just after the first world war–to put it in perspective, my grandfather was a kid, then. So needless to say I never knew the guy. My dad and one of my uncles are former millitary. I have an uncle who's still in the millitary, and currently serving in Afghanistan. My brother and one of my cousins are going through basic training, and they could end up in Afghanistan or elsewhere. I won't say that bothers me–they said themselves that's one of the reasons they joined–but it does give a day like this a whole new meaning for me. Although, I'd be lying if I said some small part of me didn't hope one of these ceremonies isn't all we're gonna have left of either of them.
Stuck under family, musings by James at 12:55 PM
And to that end, perhaps someone who randomly happens to read this thing will have an opinion… do I go Gravatar, or do I just leave things as is? I'm leaning towards leaving things as is, but then again, I *am* lazy–that, everyone's well aware. The opinion box, better known as comments, are wide open. However, anyone who comes back with some response akin to 'stop being so damn lazy' will find themselves hunted and summarily shot. Or at the least ignored. You have been warned.
Stuck under musings by James at 11:54 PM
I don't think I've actually seen a preview for Borat yet, but so far, between an internet cellebrity suing because he thinks the plot was stolen from him and a couple frat boys deciding to anonymously sue because of an apparent drunken appearance they made in the movie, it almost makes me wanna take a huge chance and go see it. Almost. Except I'm still not convinced it's entirely all that funny. Stupid, perhaps. Maybe a little amusing. But if I see it at all, it sure as hell won't be in theaters. Unless someone changes my mind. Not that I see that one happening. In the meantime, though, maybe these headlines will keep coming up and before long all the good parts of the movie will have made news, and I won't have to see it.
Stuck under oops by James at 2:00 PM
India is a fine example of where judgement by one's peers goes a lot further than the legal system. Police wouldn't arrest a man for raping his neighbour, who was deaf and mute, because she couldn't actually make a case against him. They claimed to be still investigating on their own, but couldn't do anything about it until proof was found that she was actually raped. So, the village where it happened took matters into their own hands, and their elders apparently decided the man was guilty. Couldn't very well toss his ass in jail, but they had to do something, no? Enter the publlic humiliation phase. He was publicly slapped 51 times for his offense. Suddenly, I'm guessing he's really wishing he'd been arrested.
Stuck under fubars, oops by James at 1:45 PM
On one hand, I'm mildly encouraged by the fact I'm now exactly where I was almost 2 weeks ago, but on the other, I was kind of expecting to be a little farther along in the proceedings by now. But, I feel a little more confident, at least, in saying I'll actually be able to start this time in December as opposed to the before speculated January. Thank the gods for the huge rental listing that appears to be the Ottawa Citizen. At the moment, I have 3 definite places to look at on Monday, and 2 that I'm hoping will call me back today, to make it 5 in all. I'm leaning dangerously close to confirming that December start date with Dell, too, so the sooner that gets done, over with and settled, the sooner we can get that going. Damn, do I ever feel accomplished. That didn't take much at all.
Stuck under Moving, employment, musings by James at 12:20 PM
After winning 3 in a row earlier this month then promptly getting slapped around the next game, I don't know about anyone else but I was wondering if perhaps that was the best we could do. And it almost was, except they somehow managed to do it again with a win over Boston tonight. Minus Sundin, and Minus Raycroft for just under half the game. On the bright side(s), we know where the scoring will come from, at least for tonight. We know Aubin can handle the pressure of coming in to bail us out, not that we needed bailing out. We know a 4-goal lead is not safe, at least for the moment. But it wouldn't be a Leafs game without at least one black mark on the record. I'd of thought the Raycroft injury would be enough of a black mark, though. Apparently not. Ah well, we still won.
Stuck under Bruins, maple leafs by James at 10:54 PM
Well, on the one hand, this one knows where to look for them ever so elusive weapons of mass destruction. On the other hand, though have you seen the possible sources? I dunno, I'm just waiting for the first time a hacker from Britain actually pulls something off on the US under the watch of this nutjob, if it's actually confirmed he'll be taking over as defense minister. Or secretary. Or whatever the hell they're calling it now. We'll be hearing about the need to topple Britain's current government next, looking for them damn WMD's. Oh, the idioticness of it all!
Stuck under fubars, oops, politics by James at 4:34 PM
This is what happens when I say it's quiet around here. Freakin' Stronach has to go flying off the handle about a comment made by Alberta's premier. You know, I have to wonder sometimes. She wants crap like this to just kind of disappear, but then she goes and throws a hissy fit over a comment that, until she decided to make headlines with it, I'd never even heard of. And I wouldn't be surprised if it wasn't even intended to be how she took it, although that would be deserved. Sorry, but if you're gonna be a bitch, you're gonna be called a bitch. Why should the fact you're one of the few women who bothered to enter politics make a difference? The only difference I see is if she wasn't in politics, while she was busy pouting and crying on her friends' shoulders, people might actually be getting back to things that matter. Some people's vanity amazes me.
Apparently, he's not planning to appologise for the comment. I dunno. Would you?
Stuck under politics, rantings by James at 3:30 PM
I've been quiet on here for a very good reason. It's been dead quiet around here the last couple days. I can't even find anything ridiculously amusing to laugh at on here in the news… although, if I wanted to temporarily lower my standards I'm sure I could come up with something. Still trying to find a start date for this little attempt at a job of mine that won't cause me to go completely and totally insane, still trying to find a place to live, still getting irritated at the lack of any real progress with either, you know the drill. And all that whilst making sure someone else doesn't go completely and totally insane thanks to her own problems. By the time everything gets set up on this end, I'm gonna need a small vacation… LOL And now, back to trying to get some answers. And such.
Stuck under musings by James at 2:46 PM
I have discovered the reason for it taking a week for me to actually get a hold of something that wasn't someone's voicemail. One HR person I'm to get in touch with was, in fact, on vacation, or… something of the sort. The other? Well, see, she was transfered to Edmonton, and the girl who was taking over for her apparently dropped the ball, or that's the impression I got, anyway. So the HR person who didn't get transfered finally called me back, and is probably going to end up having a conversation with her… yay people in charge! Or… something. So I might actually get somewhere before 2007 is over. Possibly. My opinion regarding relying on other people, however, remains unchanged.
Stuck under employment, fubars, oops by James at 6:59 PM
And not for the reasons you'd think, either. He showed up at the house of commons, got booed by the Block Quebecois (who cares about them anyway?), then proceeded to dash any hopes he might have a differing opinion on politics. Instead, he openly admited to being a Harper supporter. Granted, it sounds like it's just on the whole support for the troops thing, but… seriously. "I support Steven Harper" are 4 words I did not want to hear out of the mouth of the man who's opinions I mostly respect. Ah well, no one's perfect. Even he must be allowed his mistakes, I suppose.
Stuck under Hockey, musings, politics by James at 6:44 PM
I didn't figure it'd last long, and I was right. Not even 2 months after giving birth to number 2, miss Britney has apparently smartened up and, in an attempt at salvaging what's left of her image, she's ditching the moron. Some would say it's about time. On the other hand, though, will it do her any good? Um, probably not. She stunk before, and now, well, now she just stinks with 2 kids and a deadbeat. And his attempts at being a bigshot can't be helping her, either. This girl gives people my age a bad name.
Stuck under fubars, oops by James at 6:24 PM
Sure, the first period didn't reflect the fact the Leafs pretty much walked all over Philadelphia, and sure, the second period didn't reflect the fact the Leafs were extremely lucky Raycroft was playing like he deserved to be named one of last week's stars, but the third period was very much worth suffering through the other two. If only because it showed exactly why the Flyers are in the NHL's basement. Of course, if Toronto hadn't one that one as convincingly as they did, I did say I'd be pulling out the dictionary of 4-letter words. Thankfully it's not required, this time. Besides, we need someone to hold up the rest of the conference, now that Atlanta thinks it's ready to lead its division. Ah well. We proved Buffalo was actually not unbeatable. So Atlanta may yet prove collapseable. But, either way, I'll take the 2 points. Even if it should have been a lot easier than it had to be, as so cleverly pointed out by the king puppet himself. But, that's hockey in Toronto. And I love it.
Stuck under Flyers, Sabres, Thrashers, maple leafs by James at 5:53 PM
Apparently, someone liked the idea behind the movie Borat, which is apparently supposed to be quite funny. Funny enough, perhaps, that an internet celebrity (is there really such a thing as a celebrity strictly online?) has decided to claim the idea for the movie was stolen from him. Well, I guess that's one way to draw more attention to the movie itself. I almost wanna see it. But not really. I think that particular news story is more amusing on the whole than probably the movie that sparked it. Maybe someone who's seen it can correct me on that one, but… eh, probably not. Oh well! I'm still amused as hell.
Stuck under oops by James at 4:43 PM
'Cuz I have a couple minutes before hockey.
Your Summer Love Type is Go With the Flow A great summer love may be in the cards for you … or not.
You'll have a fantastic time this summer, taking what comes.
What you want is flexible - what you'll get is up in the air.
No matter what, you'll have fun - and maybe a few flings!
Stuck under quizes by James at 7:25 PM
If Raycroft had been in net for the Florida game, in which we soundly got spanked, he probably wouldn't have been named one of this week's 3 stars. But, he wasn't, and he was. Ah, I do love the ins and outs of the hockey world. And now, Raycroft has his own personal 3 game winning streek going on. Will he make it 4 tonight? Will the Leafs make it 2 in a row for the second time this season? Well, if not, I won't be the only one uncovering the dictionary of 4-letter words, I'm sure.
Stuck under maple leafs, musings by James at 4:02 PM
Still nothing but voicemail from the Dell people. Yay people who don't return phone calls. And now, they've already cost me an apartment, as the rental application I preemptively filled out has basicly been declared null and void–the apartment I was applying to rent has already been occupied. I guess I wasn't preemptive enough. If this keeps up, they're gonna be scheduling me to start in January. Which… actually might not be such a horrible idea. Well, if I can ever get a hold of these fools, I'll see if *that's* an option. It's probably not, but if not, then it's back pounding the pavement and looking elsewhere. Have I mentioned lately I despise having to rely on other people? Blech…
Stuck under Moving, employment, fubars, rantings by James at 11:16 AM
In spite of the fact he's already been rather effectively sentenced, he probably still has another trial to go through yet. And he'll be hanged, so there goes the theory that he'll get what he wants–he did, after all, request a shooting. Well, there is a bright side. There will soon be one less whackjob on the planet. Make room for someone with a brain and an IQ above 0.2. Yay inteligence!
Stuck under fubars by James at 10:38 PM
Well, that day has come. My parents will have dropped my brother off by now, and are on their way back home. And this house is going to be an aweful lot quieter for the next week or two. And then, a hell of a lot quieter after that as I move to Ottawa in preparation for starting work. Blah, seems just 6 months ago I was complaining about my lack of employment, and his ability to get himself fired from just about any job he chooses. What a bloody difference 6 months make, I tell you. It almost makes me wonder where we'll all be in another 6. Well, okay, so I know where I'll be in another 6. It's everyone else who's the questionmark. Okay, one less thought to cross my mind, then.
Stuck under family, musings by James at 6:03 PM
Okay, so um… even on an off night, Buffalo's supposed to be good. So why is it that a team that hasn't been all that hot lately was able to take them apart? I mean, not that I'm complaining, but… wow. Me thinks someone's sails are about to lose their good wind. Of course, it helps that there are now 3 points seperating Toronto from the top of the division, and naturally the top of the conference. Hm, that would be nice. Though, for some reason, not *quite* as nice as seeing Ottawa kind of… um… well, so far out of the playoffs it's not even funny. And Buffalo has another game tomorrow, so the chances of them winning that one too are slipping away… thank God. I'd hate to see a 4 1 win go to waste. Oh, wait, what am I saying… we have an easy game on Monday. I hope it's easy, anyway. Or… something. So much for a coherent entry.
Stuck under Sabres, maple leafs by James at 10:04 PM
So an IM conversation I was involved in somehow got onto the topic of whether or not a blind man could actually own a car. How that happened, or why, is still anyone's guess. But, in doing so, I discovered something perhaps too glaringly obvious about the system that regulates vehicle ownership up here. There's more goddamn red tape involved than you can shake a stick at. Thank the gods I don't drive…
Stuck under fubars, musings, oops, random crap by James at 5:50 PM
We went out for dinner tonight, to sorta cellebrate my Dad's birthday and the fact my brother will, in 2 days, be starting his basic training (yay!). And, from about the time the meal was finished to, like… now, I swear if I had anything more to eat I'd explode. Of course, that didn't stop certain individuals from trying to feed me more (I'm looking at you, mom). It's amusing, in a way, though. I think everyone who was there ended up not finishing what they ordered. So for about 10-15 minutes, we were all taking turns passing what was left from one person to the next. Not that it was accomplishing anything. And then, of course, they just had to go bring out the birthday cake. Did I mention by this point at least one of us was borderline exploding? So now, my dad is officially 44, and I am officially 5 pounds heavier. Oh, and, I can guarantee no one in this house will look to snack or anything 'til breakfast. Sunday.
Stuck under family, oops by James at 8:55 PM
I used to have this song, then well, the laptop thought it'd be nice to crap out. But, I now have it once again… yay google! And on that note, I'd just like to say right here and now, go Sens go! Why? Well, because it sounds a lot better than golf Sens golf. It's a little outdated, mostly because some of the named players smartened up and moved on… well, okay, so maybe not smartened up. But the message is still the same. Enjoy!
Stuck under Hockey, MP3, Senators, maple leafs by James at 2:43 PM
Virtually everything else has been taken care of now. Well, what can be taken care of, at least, without proving that I'm actually employed. So, in short, there isn't all that much that's actually been accomplished in the last couple days. I'm still calling, still getting voicemail, and still suspicious that, if nothing else, the whole damn HR department's on vacation. This is gonna be murder on the long distance bill at that. And then people ask me why I'd want to pay a little more for a phone plan with free long distance… heh, this is why. Ah well, it's Friday. Hopefully come Monday things will actually get back to their regularly scheduled insanity. And hopefully the apartment I want isn't taken by then. Stupid goddamn other people.
Stuck under Moving, employment, rantings by James at 12:36 PM
We did not actually go out there, stink the place up, then take it soundly on the nose. Nor did we fall asleep for at least half the game, give them a 3 goal lead, and then make it extremely easy to stick a 4th in the net. In short, contrary to popular belief, we did not actually suck last night. And if I tell myself such things long enough, I may actually believe it. Stupid goddamn Florida…
Stuck under Panthers, maple leafs by James at 12:19 PM
I suppose anything's possible, but… perhaps someone who's been through it can explain to me exactly how it is you *wouldn't* know you were pregnant? I mean, I can see not knowing at first, hence things like pregnancy tests and things, but… after 9 months, still not knowing? Hello? Although, there is something to be found amusing about going to the hospital for abdominal pain and coming back with a kid. Or maybe I'm just twisted.
Stuck under fubars, oops by James at 4:02 PM
They did it in the preseason, but that was the preseason. Now, they need to do it one more time with feeling. Which they did. Well, kinda. I'm not sure whether to be happy that the defense was actually contributing, or worried that our forwards were kind of asleep at times. Although, to be fair, both sides looked like they were trying desperately to set a new record for the most turnovers in a game. But… hey, it's a win. And they do it again tomorrow. Since they don't seem to like back to back games all that much, I'll take the win. For now. Can we make it 4 in a row? Leaning towards no. Why? Well, avid Leafs fan, meet realism. Realism would like to point out the obvious, which I've already said–they don't really much care for back to back games. So, yeah. There will not be 4 in a row. Now prove me wrong. Please?
Stuck under Lightning, maple leafs by James at 10:34 PM
Now, however, I'm not waiting for apartment people to get back to me. I'm waiting for employment people to check their voicemail. I've been haunting it since yesterday, after I got home from Ottawa, and so far she's not called me back. Part of me is thinking she just had yesterday and today off, or was sick, or something… of course, there is the pesimistic part of me that just wants to go on thinking they filled the position and just didn't feel like telling me. Fortunately, I've learned to ignore that tiny insignificant part of my mind. However, she *is* being all manner of difficult to get a hold of. She supposed to be emailing me paperwork, some of it needed for my rental application, and all of it needing to either be filled out, signed or at least read. I can't fill out the application until I have proof of employment, and I can't have proof of employment until chick dooing the hiring sends it to me. Too bad, too, 'cuz I love that apartment, and the longer she makes me wait the less likely it is that it'll remain vacant. Did I mention I hate relying on other people? Blah…
Stuck under Moving, employment, rantings by James at 7:43 PM
A little nod to them there people I like to spy on... I mean read; give 'em a look over. It's good for you.
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