Gouda Tidings We Bring

Is It Over Yet?

Last Minute Gift

Just can't figure out what to give Grandma and you're running out of time? Here's a quick and easy idea for a gift made from something you probably already have around the house.

Maxi Bedroom Slippers!!! You need 4 to make a pair. Two of them get laid out to make the foot part and the other two get wrapped around the toe area to form the top. Tape or glue each side of the top pieces to the bottom of the foot part. Decorate the tops with cheery holiday bows or buttons.

They're soft and hygenic, feature non-slip grip strips on the sole and have a built in deodorant feature. They're also disposable, biodegradeable, and no more bending over to wipe up spills! Three convenient sizes: Regular, Light Day, and Get out the Sandbags.**


**Yes, this is a joke but I just couldn't resist.

Ever Feel Like This?

Christmas is like this picture for me. It sneaks up and bites me on the leg. Usually higher. I do own a calendar so I *should* be prepared, but somehow, every year, I find myself at the mall the weekend before. I think maybe it's become a mental block for me because, like Charlie Brown, I'm disgusted by the over commercialization of the holiday. I say "over" because I'm all for some commercialization. What would life be like if not for the 12-foot tall inflatable yard snowmen or the decorations that look like Walt Disney just vomited all over your window? Most young folks would probably never hear Bing Crosby's voice if it weren't piped through the p.a. system at Old Navy. It's just become too much when decorations go up the day after Halloween in all its technicolor glory. On December 26th, goodwill towards men comes to a screeching halt at 75% savings. By December 27th, flip-flops and sunscreen displays are assembled right next to Santa hats and fake snow. Good grief.

In any case, this blogger wishes all of you (even to the two of you who unsubscribed...grr) a very Merry Christmas and a Joyous New Year with as little commercialization as possible.*

*The preceding good wish was brought to you by the good people at oldnavy.com, where shipping is always $5.

Don't Say I Never Got You Anything

From me to you. Merry Christmas. Turn up your volume.

Stargazing This Week

One August night, many years ago, my older sister announced that WE (I don't remember volunteering but who knows) were going to get up at 4:00 a.m. to watch the Perseid Meteor Shower. It was supposed to be spectacular that year and she wanted to see meteors! Who could refuse the invitation to sneak out of the house with your sister in the middle of the night, in our pajamas, to watch stars falling from the heavens? I remember the hot summer night, and groggily climbing on top of my dad's truck hood, leaning on the windshield to lie in wait for the big show. I felt happy and conspiratorial and probably watched her face more than I did the sky. I did see many meteors that night though, each of us trying to top each other's tally. By sunrise, I was satisfied that I had seen pretty close to the number she saw. I was thrilled to be equal with her! Later, after we came inside she told me she also saw two fireballs. Grrr...Oh well. We never snuck outside to watch meteor showers again but I'll always remember lying on that hood in the middle of the night with my sister. Not saying a word...just watching the heavens.

This week is the annual Geminid Meteor Shower, which in recent decades has surpassed the Perseid Meteor Shower in showy visibility, even if you live near big cities like L.A. This year is supposed to be...spectacular. If you're lucky, and depending on your location, you can see around 80 meteors per hour -- best visibility will be after 10 p.m. on Dec. 14.

Put on your pajamas. Call your sister.

Why Technology Is Like Your Mother...and That Episode of Star Trek With The Planet Eater

Most times, I really love being with my mom. She's always there when you need her, she's reliable, understanding, generous and I learn something new from her almost every time I see her. But sometimes, I just want to strangle her. C'mon, you know what I mean. Technology is like that. For example, I just recently switched from Comcast to ATT U-Verse. Without getting into the long, sordid story of why I gave the kick in the pants to Comcast (because I'm being medicated for high blood pressure and I'm not supposed to get riled up), I'll just say that I've been happy - generally - with U-Verse. In addition to digital TV, you also get your internet upgraded to a "fiber optic" system which is supposed to be better than DSL...blahblahblah. Ok, fine. Well....yesterday, when I clicked "receive" on my e-mail, the server downloaded 17,000 e-mails into my Inbox. No need to rub your eyes, yes...I said, 17,000...beginning in March 2005 to the present. After screaming several choice expletives, I checked my e-mail options and no, I did not check the box that said "keep a copy on the server."

Now, we all know that everything we send via our computers is saved somewhere, but where was this coming from? A call to ATT got me transferred to "Tier 2 Support" (Tier 1 was clueless) and a 4-digit "password." The guy was totally perplexed. His suggestion was to go ahead and let the server download all 17,000 e-mails (some multiple copies) and delete them. Anyone want to guess what that does to your computer? Freeze city. And of course, every time you stop a download and try again, it starts all over again. This happened FOUR times. Yes, I deleted 5-10 thousand e-mail messages manually FOUR times - because when you hit "select all," your computer just throws up its hands and lapses into a coma. Also, if you get U-Verse, you should know that you get a wireless modem which ROAMS, looking for a connection and sometimes, there is a disconnect, requiring - you guessed it - having to RE-DOWNLOAD the entire thing AGAIN. All I needed was to complete the gargantuan download so I could delete it and send it into the Internet Black Hole Vortex of Death - God willing. Remember that episode of Star Trek, The Doomsday Machine, where the football field-sized log was scooping up planets and Commodore Decker ends up flying into it, thereby destroying it? Yes, you do. I just needed to empty all those forgotten messages into the gaping maw of Deletion. I just couldn't do it because the damn connection couldn't handle it.

Finally, I was able to reach a different techie at ATT (Robert) who still couldn't clarify for me WHY this happened, but was able to delete the behemoth on his end - at the server. He hinted that it was probably a backup function of a downloaded tool gone awry. So while its intentions were good, I ended up having to destroy the monster created to protect me - like the Doomsday Machine. Oh, and Robert is my new BFF. he he As to how technology is like my mother....I still love my computer, but honestly...sometimes I get the urge to strangle.

"Is This The Library? Where Are You Located?"

Cool library facade in Kansas City. Residents were asked to nominate books that were representative of their city. The community choices were then made into ginormous replicas.

No more excuses about not being able to find the library to take care of fines.

More photos here and also of a temporary front in Cardiff.

No Fear

Tell ya what *I'm* afraid of: That man skirt.

The Light At The End - Week 10, #23

There it is! I see it...that bright light over there. I'm drawn to it like a....moth to a -- no, too prosaic -- more like ME to a Nordstrom's Giant Shoe Sale! I want to walk into the light but I'm ... hesitant. Is it the fear of the rapture or that creepy salesman making eye contact with me? No, this isn't an episode of "The Ghost Whisperer." It's the end of our blog journey.

It's true, I'm sort of reluctant to quit blogging. Even if I continue, would anyone still read it? Maybe it doesn't matter. I've always viewed this medium as more journal writing than reporting. It's funny because I always thought of bloggers as self-indulgent, egocentric attention-seekers looking for a captive audience. Hello! It may be that I was, ahem, too quick to judge. Since this assignment began, I've read many blogs that are insightful, caustic, witty, funny and touching. Point in fact, many of these blogs belong to my co-workers (and some were from total strangers) and through their entries, I've gotten to know them in ways that might have taken longer if given the usual route. Knowing more about the individual person has bettered our working relationships and added depth to our friendships. I am grateful for their honesty and for letting me in.

So I started this blog thinking I would only relinquish a small part of me - only what I was certain it was okay for you to know about me. I ended it probably boring you to tears and rambling non-stop about all the weird stuff constantly running through my head. I've learned a lot about technology and have tried things I would never have tried on my own. (Note to self: Unregister from that music/video site and delete potentially embarrassing photos). Thanks for the incentive and the encouragement. That sharp stick in my back that I first blogged about was really just a gentle nudge. Perhaps there's a few more blog entries left in Secret Asian Girl.

After all, who knows what lies beyond the light.

Wet Oatmeal Kisses - A Poem

Cleaning out some old files and found this poem about growing up. Thinking of Tristan...thought I'd share. Some people may see this as sad but I think it's just...remembering. Either way, get out the Kleenex, you're gonna need 'em.

Wet Oatmeal Kisses

One of these days you'll explode
and shout to all the kids,
"Why don't you just grow up
and act your own age?"

And they will.

Or, "You guys get outside
and find something to do --
without hurting each other!
And don't slam the door!"

And they don't.

You'll straighten their bedrooms
until it's all neat and tidy,
toys displayed on the shelf,
hangers in the closet,
animals caged. You'll yell,
"Now I want it to stay this way!!"

And it will.

You will prepare a perfect dinner
with a salad that hasn't had all
the olives picked out.
And a cake with no finger traces in
the icing.
And you'll say,
"Now this is a meal for company."

And you will eat it alone.

You'll yell, "I want complete privacy
on the phone! No screaming, do you
hear me?"

And no one will answer.

No more plastic tablecloths stained.
No more dandelion bouquets.
No more iron-on patches.
No more wet, knotted shoelaces,
muddy boots or
Rubber bands for ponytails.

Imagine. A lipstick with a point.
No babysitters for New Year's Eve,
washing clothes only once a week.
No PTA meetings or silly school plays
where your child is a tree.
No carpools, blaring stereos or forgotten
lunch money.

No more presents made of library paste
and toothpicks. No wet oatmeal kisses.
No more tooth fairy, giggles in the dark,
scraped knees to kiss or sticky fingers to
clean.

Only a voice asking, "Why don't you grow up?"

And the silence echoes:

"I did."


Author unknown

Out of the Oven

Here's how my rustic pumpkin plum tart and rolls turned out. Hope your feast was yummy too! Happy Birthday Tristan!!!

Whatssamatta You? Eat, Already!

This yummy dessert is Pumpkin Chai Pots de Créme with Pumpkin Seed Brittle. As much as I loathe the word, "foodie," I suppose that's what I am. I love to try new and exotic recipes and Thanksgiving is the perfect time to try them out on unsuspecting guinea pigs, er...guests.

I come from a family of great cooks. My mother can make a sumptuous meal from an empty fridge - which is nothing less than astounding - and taught me to not be afraid to make a mess if I wanted to be a good cook. ("Quit being a baby and get your hands in there!!!") Comfort food is synonymous with my Mom. My aunts all specialize in different areas of food expertise: Aunt Irene makes to die for desserts, Aunt Nat's forte is seafood and side dishes, Aunt Ginny knows all the latest low-fat, good cholesterol recipes (she's from Los Angeles) and Aunt Margaret is fantastic with EVERYTHING. All very delicious and all very mysterious because none of them write anything down. When I ask them for a recipe they just wave me away with "Oh...I don't know, I never measure!" But if you want to learn "the secret" to soft, melt-in-your-mouth yeast rolls or perfectly roasted Beef Wellington, they are happy to spend the afternoon with you. Pay attention! Watch and learn! I pepper them with questions, "But...how do you KNOW when it's the right texture?" You had to see this answer coming..."You just KNOW." Aarrghh. My MOM, on the other hand will write it down for me. She probably forgot that once she told me, "The secret to being a great cook is that when people ask you for the recipe, give it to them but change just one small thing. That way, yours will always be better." Waitaminute...didn't you just give me the recipe for your stuffing?

So you can imagine that bringing food to my family's get-togethers can be stressful -- especially knowing that my superstar aunts and Mom will be trying it. I know they're grateful that I brought something and it's probably my imagination that they give me that "Oh ...is that a pie?" look, followed by "Did you use the paté brisee crust recipe?" I'm sure they're just being curious...right? Store-bought pie has never seen any of my family's dinners.

This year, for the first time in my memory, we are having Thanksgiving with just our immediate families instead of the whole clan. I'm glad for the quiet respite but I will miss all the terrific food. My mom is cooking the main meal though, thank goodness! What's my contribution? I'm making Aunt Margaret's yeast rolls - from scratch - and a new recipe: Rustic pumpkin ginger tart with plum preserves. I hope I do my family proud. Want the recipe? I'll be happy to write it down for you...

Sesame Street: The Early Years

Here's an interesting article from the New York Times about the early episodes of Sesame Street and how some of the content may not be suitable for 2007 preschoolers. Imagine...showing people who live in tenements! Oscar must be grouchy because he obviously has self-esteem problems....and are those cookies organic??? Personally, I think the kids of today are way too overprotected for their own good but don't get me started. I watched LOTS of television growing up and look how normal *I* turned out! (I heard that)

By the way, Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours! Peace.

"E" Stands For "Enviable" Week 9, #22

I lust in my heart for a Sony Reader. The new models hold 160 e-books and look impressive with no glare and crystal clear readability. I love the concept of not lugging around heavy books and being able to access my entire library from one palm-sized unit. Unfortunately, the $299 cold shower retail price is going to have to come down to make it more attractive, plus the cost of the downloadable books are rather pricey: around $9 - 15 per book. *sigh* At least the titles are books written in THIS decade. The free e-books on Wowio and Librivox - which you can download directly to a PC, without purchasing a reader - are virtually (ha) unrecognizable. I guess never has the adage "you get what you pay for" been more true. The free offerings are crap. But I suppose if you've been living in a monastery for the past twenty years and never got to read "All I Really Need to Know I Learned in Kindergarten" you're in luck. Otherwise, prepare for a rather dissatisfying search. It's sort of like browsing through the 25¢ paperback table at a garage sale. Got it...read it....what the heck is THAT? Good lord, is that grape jelly on my fingers? Bleah.

Why Germany Really Lost The War

This made me giggle.

Pods! You're Next...You're Next! Week 9, #21

If you recognized the obscure title of this entry as a reference to the 1956 film, "Invasion of the Body Snatchers," you might be like me and watch a lot of films and television. I'm more a visual person than an audio person. Probably explains why I have a BA in Radio and Television but have never stepped foot in a radio station. Listening to radio is never my first choice when it comes to getting information or entertainment. Radio is boring to me. And as long as I'm confessing, I have NEVER listened to an audio book. Zzzzzzz.... It's just too slow. So I'm not sure if podcasts are for me either. I looked at a site - Podcast Alley - and found an interesting one on Harry Potter (by the way, it's the official podcast of the Leaky Cauldron, if you follow that fansite.) Another podcast that piqued my interest was Hardcore History, which is sort of like Charlie Rose meets the History Channel. Interesting "what if " discussions like "What if a plague, like the Black Death of 1347, occurred today and reduced our population by 100 million?" Besides finally being able to find parking at the Galleria, how else would it affect our lives? Interesting fodder for those who wish to sound smarter than they are. But.... I sure hope they run an episode of this on cable soon.

Turkey Time! Week 9, #20

This was easy to do at home but I'm not sure is it's viewable to hcpl viewers. If not, click here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c0OZvjeMiUM

Zoho Ho! Week 8, #19

It seems like it could only be a matter of time before Microsoft Office was challenged. Zoho, a web-based alternative to the mighty document dictator, might prove MSOffice obsolete or force Microsoft to make their program even more user friendly...and cheaper. With Zoho, there's no expensive software to purchase. You simply sign up for a free account and go. Unfortunately, you do have to register for every different application (Zoho Writer, Zoho Sheet, etc.) but perhaps they'll bundle these in the future. Sharing documents, too, has never been easier. Kids (and adults) can collaborate on-line for group projects without worrying whether their programs are compatible for editing purposes.

So far, Zoho seems like a pretty cool thing. Easy, free and no more worries about that pesky "Is this a legitimate copy?" error from Microsoft. Mwahaha!

To Boldly Go... Week 8, #18

Social networking is science fiction come to life. Hal, are you there? No stress or anxiety, just sit in front of your computer and meet folks with similar interests. What an idea! Most people think of only Myspace or Facebook but apparently there's a world of networking out there. Okay, I suppose some of the sites looked fun, like Dogster and Ning. Sam might be interested in his own website so he can hook up with some of his Sheltie bro's and Posh Mama was all about parenting and looked like a great resource for new parents. Also, connecting with others who share health issues may provide important information during a difficult time. I'm not sure, however, about Pengspace, a website for penguin friends. Hmm.....

All right, I'll admit that I've "lurked" before but I always come away feeling creepy, like an online Peeping Tom. Who are these freakish people who spend hours at a keyboard, writing to no one in particular about their personal lives, their private thoughts...posting pictures of their kid in Underdog costumes....? (((shudder))) I am adjusting to the idea. In an increasingly shrinking world we are all reaching out to connect to one another; to share our lives and to feel less alone. This is more of the same - perhaps impersonal but definitely a means to that end...and to first contact.

"When Polly's In Trouble, I Am Not Slow...."

Whenever I think of Halloween, I can't help but remember all the goofy costumes I put Tristan (18 years old next month) in. This one - when he was four - is by far, my favorite. I don't even know if he was aware of who Underdog was, but if the character was a superhero, that was cool with Tristan.

Later, he opted for more "mainstream" costumes like Spiderman, Batman, Power Rangers, Men in Black (are you seeing a pattern here?). But I will always remember fondly a little doggie in baggy shorts and felt ears ready to save the world. Simon Bar Sinister.....beware!!!

(PS: He'd kill me if he knew I posted this)

Skelly Man

Something to watch while the 'puters are down.

Turn up your audio. It's a real rib-tickler.

H-E-L-P ! ! ! ! - Chicken Soup for the Circ Assistant's Soul

Is this our next assignment?? Ok, ok...we GET IT. We need computers!! Now put Horizon back up....pleeeeeese!!! Waaahhhh. (((sob!)))

Technology: More Than Meets The Eye - Week 7, #17

Technology is a wonderful thing. I'm old enough to remember a life without computers, microwaves, cell phones or space shuttles and I can state unequivocally that life is better with technology than without. Those people who wax poetic about slow cooking or the peaceful quiet before cell phones obviously don't remember slaving for hours over hot cooktops or being stranded on a freeway overpass and having to walk 2 miles to a pay phone. These are probably the same ingrates who love camping. Ahhh....the great outdoors! No air-conditioning, no indoor plumbing...just sweaty, dirty you, squatting behind a bush with the mosquitoes! No thanks.

Personally, I embrace technology. I don't want to go back to a time when a Blackberry was something that dribbled down your chin and your lap top was just a place where you put your napkin to catch the juice. For now, technology makes life just a little bit easier for all of us. Who knows if computers and robots will, if they haven't already, take over the world and turn us into their techno-dependent slaves. Nah....that's just science fiction. Gotta run...anyone seen that new movie, "Transformers"?

Wiki Wiki? Pupule Kela! - Week 7, #16

In this exercise I learned about Wikis and how their name is derived from the Hawaiian word for "fast." Cute. I guess speed is essential but so is accuracy. My Dad, who was from Hawaii, would say "Pupule Kela!", or "Are you crazy?" This would usually be followed by a swift thump to my forehead, "No kahako!" (No brains!) Ouch. Huh?

Initially, I liked the idea of sharing information. Like a bulletin board in a global village, if you'll indulge my metaphor. Trouble is, you know who lives in the village? That's right...the local idiot. And for some reason, he likes to share his thoughts. A lot. Seriously...can't get him to shut up. (By the way, there's no real reason why I chose to say "he" rather than "she." *smirk*) Not to say that there's not a lot of good, mostly accurate information in Wikis, but are we qualified enough to be able to discern the difference? Can we sift through the chaff to get to the grain? Discard the husk to crack open the nut? According to the video, Wikis are merely a starting place; a point of origin, and not a podium. Hopefully, someone told the idiot.

Mahalo.

Out Of The (Broom) Closet

photo courtesy of cuteoverload.com

Resistance Is Futile...Or Is It? Week 6, #15

I just read a news blurb (thanks, Bloglines!) reporting that, as of yesterday, Best Buy will no longer sell analog televisions. In preparation for the big switch to digital on February 18, 2009 (when broadcasters will stop transmitting analog signals) consumers can only purchase digital - flat screen or HD - TV's from Best Buy. No more rabbit ears. In other words, get with the program people! This brought to mind a conversation I had with a co-worker about blogging, computers and technology. This particular person...oh heck, let's call him "Vincent"...is not only reluctant to enter the modernization of the information era, he's got his feet planted firmly on both sides of the door frame daring someone to push him in. "Vincent," I said, "You know that resistance is futile." "Oh no it's not." he replied calmly. Gotta respect the guy's commitment to the status quo.

The articles on Library 2.0 were all very interesting and I couldn't agree more with A Librarian's 2.0 Manifesto. I think it's shortsighted (and perhaps a tad trigger happy) to propose to do away with what we've always known libraries to be, but if we don't adapt to what it's fast becoming, we are in danger of going the way of the VCR or the 8-Track tape...or the analog TV. Obsolete-a-ville. While "Vincent" remains unconvinced, our customers are plunging into the unknown - some more timidly than others - but plunging, nevertheless. Today I helped an elderly gentleman, who had just been diagnosed with cancer, look up information regarding his condition on the internet.....for the first time. He actually said to me, "Now when you say 'click on it,' what do you mean?" I was glad I was able to help him. It's important that, as library employees, we're informed enough to help ease the transition for our patrons. Like it or not, ALL of us will have to embrace change willingly or else find ourselves assimilated without our permission. The cube is calling.

WTF! Out of the Gutter and Into the Fry Daddy - Week 6, #14

Blogs are a great way to get your ideas "out there" to total strangers. I'm just not sure if I'm ready to be on a "watchlist." It kinda freaks me out to know that *I* have subscribers. No....Martha Stewart has subscribers. I'm lucky if I have eavesdroppers. Still, it's fun to see what other people are interested in. Many of the Top Blogs are technology based, which I'm only mildly interested in. I'm already subscribed to Boing Boing and Cute Overload always puts a smile on my face. Where else could I find this:

WTF was not what I was thinking it was. (Remember, I have a teenage son) Where's The Fire (WTFs) are short blurbs, catch phrases of hot subjects people are interested in right now. Another commentary on fast food journalism that I won't get into. In truth, people are strapped for time and it's easier to quickly scan headlines than to pick up a paper. Perhaps instead of WTFs, they should be called McNuggets. Quick, bite sized, questionably-nutritional and deep-fried. Unfortunately, my first assumption on the acronym was probably more true. Do I really need to know how to make a duct-tape wallet?

Susp.icio.us About Del.icio.us - Week 6, #13

First of all, the term "social networking tool" is just a turn off to me. I am reluctant to network - which always sounds like I'm catching someone in my sticky web - with people I don't know but with whom I supposedly share some small aspect of my life. We all wear glasses when we drive so....here's the 411 on the rest of my personal life. Maybe we all eat the same brand of yogurt. Is this necessary for me to know? I guess it's okay but WHO could possibly have so little else to do in their lives that they'd be remotely interested in MINE?? Still, if del.ici.ous is a way to have a "remote access" to my bookmarks, then I suppose that aspect of it is useful. I get it. But do they have to give it a name that sounds like someone is salivating?

screamingmeezie

Another avatar. A perfect get-away.

Myself the Elf - Week 5, #12

At first, I thought that Library Elf was a silly tool. After all, reminders are provided by our own library without having to register at yet another site. But after closer inspection, I noticed that it's very organized. I like the handy calendar so I can actually see when my items are due and on which day of the week I need to bring them back. And it's convenient to have all your checkout, holds and due date information on one page. If I were like some customers, with a stack full of cards (belonging to every member of their family), Library Elf might make life a lot less complicated. That is, IF they use it. After all, keeping track of five cards with 15 books on each one is SO much easier than having one card checked out to the max.

(( silence - insert sound of crickets chirping))

Sarcasm...just one more service I provide.

I Know My Library Card Is Here Somewhere

It's A Library THANG - Week 5, #11

The idea of cataloguing my books at home is waaay too organized for me. This is for people who alphabetize their CD's, group their DVD's by genre or label their shoeboxes in their closets (yeah, you know who you are!). Here's how I catalogue my "library" at home: Take out bookmark. Throw on shelf. Done. Do I have that title? Ummm...yeah, I think so. Library Thing (or "Thang" as we say in these parts) is probably useful to some. I suppose if anyone is interested enough in what I'm reading they can go to my Library Thing widget (on the right sidebar) and take a look rather than ask me. I do like the "suggestion" tab, however. Who knew that, based on my library collection, I might also like "Siddartha" by Hermann Hesse? It's a good thing I work in a library.

The Real Me - Week 5, #10

There are many ways to create images of yourself through avatars and they're SO REALISTIC. Pppppfffftttt!!! Okay, I knew I couldn't write that without spewing something. Well, I suppose it's true IF you're 14 years old and weigh 65 lbs. Otherwise, another option is to look like a Weeble.

For this blog, I chose to Simpsonize myself. Take a look at screamingmimi as a Simpsons character, on the right sidebar of this blog. The Simpsons are tongue-in-cheek and irreverent, just like me. Hilarious to see yourself "yellow," (or *more* yellow, in my case) especially if you're a fan, like I am. Mmmm...donuts.

There's a Fine Line Between Collecting and Mental Illness

In my profile, I describe myself as a "pack-rat." Alas, it's true but only in the sense that I consider myself less a pack-rat and more a... collector. I still own my first Barbie, I have my own pink baby shoes, the first toy I remember owning (Cecil the Sea Serpent plush - I later found his friend, Beanie!) and... my first teddy bear.

"Cubbie" was a gift from Santa in 1967 and he arrived with a note asking me to take good care of him and not to throw him on the ground. I guess Santa had had a peek into my messy room.... I also have a photo of that particular Christmas and of me, with Cubbie. Cubbie now resides in a cabinet full of bears, most of them older than he is but none less loved. They are my "hug" of bears and I am a self-confessed "Arctophile," that is, a bear collector.

I bought my first antique bear in 1985, in Arlington, Vermont. He's an American "stick" bear (which referred to the straight shape of their arms and legs) probably made in the 1920's. I was enchanted by the idea that this small bundle of mohair, straw and shoe buttons brought happiness to a child once - or maybe to more than one child - and I wondered what stories he could tell. Did Arlington (named for where I found him) occupy a place of pride on someone's pillow? How many secrets were whispered into this tattered, lop-sided ear, now hanging by four threads? The fur is rubbed off on one side of his head....from too many kisses or hugs? And what about this worn off spot on his tummy, just about the size of a child's thumb?

Over the years (and thanks to Ebay - Master Enabler to all of us bitten by the collecting bug) I've collected many bears. Some extremely old, like Eddie, who just celebrated his 102nd birthday. Like Eddie, most of them are German, manufactured by the "Cadillac" of bear companies, Steiff. Some are very valuable and some are just like Cubbie, a birthday or Christmas present, meant simply to be a child's toy. But ALL of them have stories: of long-ago trips across the ocean, eager and desperate hugs, tears dripped onto their soft faces, and dreams whispered into furry, tattered ears.

Just so you know, Arlington still listens...

Looking for Mr. Sidebar - Week 4, #9

Okay, pretty cool. I suppose if one is going to keep up-to-date on the latest news on the net, one should know WHERE to find said news. Feedster, Topix, Technorati and Syndic8 all seemed like useful search tools but I will probably use Technorati, if any. I need something that's easy to use and doesn't confuse easily-muddled people like myself.

Besides, where else would I find out about this little gem, TIOTI (Tape It Off The Internet), a real find for TV junkies like myself and just launched today! The title is a little misleading because you can't actually tape anything, but if you're looking for that old episode of "Frasier" where Niles proposes to Daphne on the night before her wedding to Donny....bingo. A lot of sites offer current series episodes - and this site does as well - but sometimes it's difficult to find shows you thought were long-gone to that great Zenith void in the sky. Use my TIOTI search box in the sidebar of this blog and start watching now! Partridge Family, here I come.

With Six You Get Blogroll - Week 4, #8

Good grief, another "new" way to view news? I was just getting used to the "old new" way to view news! CNN was my homepage! And what about the "old old" way to view news? I only just recently canceled my subscription to the Houston Chronicle! What was the "old, old, old" way? Viewing the news with my own eyeballs? Well, I am nothing if not open to better ways of doing things, if indeed, it proves to be better. I have subscribed to Bloglines and can now see everything I need/want to know on one page. Congratulations to me, I am more efficient. We shall see.

Wouldn't it be cool if we had one personal page to turn to every morning that would give us a heads up on what to expect each day? Auto: half tank, running at medium efficiency......Weather: cloudy, take an umbrella.......Hair: Crunchy, should have deep conditioned.....Outfit: Good lord, you're not wearing that, are you?.....Overall Outlook: Ehhh...could be better. Hmmm. Sometimes, ignorance is bliss.

In A Dog Pound Far, Far Away - Week 3, #7

Heh, heh...this really cracks me up. I found this Chewbacca look-alike pupster and couldn't resist adding the caption to make a loldog. What a cutie...and sure can handle a bowcaster blaster in a clone skirmish.

My Friend Flickr - Week 3, #6

In this exercise we had to explore the various inner workings of Flickr, a photo sharing website. I especially found the "mashups" interesting. I'm not sure if I'll remember all the cool little applications but I had fun creating my own Sudoku game using pictures from my Flickr account. If you're up for a little fun and some fab photos of the coolest dog breed ever, check out my Sheltie Sudoku.

Cinderella Complex - Week 3, #5

Apparently, a source of great amusement at our branch is a photo on the front cover of "Chinese Cinderella," by Adeline Yen Mah. Some of the staff believe that the picture bears an uncommon resemblance to a photo of ME, at age 3. Since the comparison sends at least one co-worker (one in particular) into hysterics every time the book passes through our branch (AND since my assignment this week is to post photos) I will let you decide.




Has the laughing subsided? Okay....first I will concede that there is a "slight" resemblance but mainly because 1) we're both Chinese - and you know how indistinguishable we all are - and 2) we are standing with the same body language. Her dress is prettier (I am in my p.j's) and her hair has ribbons in it, but I hope that my nifty pink, acrylic fur-topped booties don't escape your notice. Even at age three I'm endeavoring to be a "Glamour 'Do'"!! And even though the subtitle of the book is "The True Story of an Unwanted Daughter," my expression is most definitely NOT one of feeling unloved. It's more likely an expression of "will-you-quit-taking-my-picture-all-the-time?" See, as Asians, we're *required* to capture every waking minute of our children on film. Annoying but true....and my parents were very fond of their Kodak Instamatic.

So, no Cinderella here -- but I wouldn't turn away a Fairy Godmother.

Remembering Miss Suzy

Today I packed up four boxes of hardcover children's books. I'm keeping them; I'm just putting them away for now. Before coming to work in a public library, I was a library aide in an elementary school so I was surrounded by only children's books. Probably one reason why it took me so long to shelve was that I had to stop and read about every sixth one. (That, and the fact that apparently no one ever taught the little rugrats not to drop a book on the floor and walk away when you're done with it, but that's another tirade.)

Anyway, while packing books today I started thinking about the first book I remember falling in love with. Many people might cite classics like, "The Little Prince," or "The Secret Garden," but I suppose my taste is more prosaic. I loved, loved, loved "Miss Suzy" by Miriam Young, pictures by Arnold Lobel. I remember it arrived as part of a monthly delivery book club that my mother signed my sister and I up for. Two or three books came every month and I could not wait for each package to arrive. They were cheaply bound so the spine made a loud "craack" when you opened them but I was hooked. Miss Suzy was my favorite. It was the story of a small gray squirrel that lived happily in her cozy house in an oak tree. She loves to clean (hey, gimme a break -- it was 1964) and she especially loves to bake acorn cakes and puddings (again with the food!). One day, a band of evil red squirrels tree-jack her home, break all her dishes and kick her out of her own tree! I was appalled! Now homeless, Suzy goes to live in a beautiful doll-house in an attic. It's a grand and fancy house, but it's not home and she misses her cozy tree. Inside the attic Suzy befriends and cares for five toy soldiers who listen to her story and promise to help her get home. "There were only five of them but they were very brave, and their hearts were full of love." Awwww... I know it's schmaltzy, but I get teary every time I read this. The soldiers run the thugs out of Miss Suzy's house and she is able to move back in. Happiness ensues and all is well. It was the first time I'd read a story where friends are willing to risk their own personal well-being for the happiness of another. Beautiful lesson.

I'd forgotten about Miss Suzy until I ran across a beat up, Parent's Magazine Book Club copy at a used book store. My own copy was long gone (thanks, Mom) so I was elated to see her again and immediately turned to the part where the brave soldiers scale the tree to save Suzy's home. Over the years, I ended up buying 2 more used (and in various stages of disrepair) copies of this book -- just couldn't resist every time I found one. Now, I believe it's back in print and even available in a shiny new dustjacket if you want one. I don't. I'm happy with my collection of used "Miss Suzys." The edges are worn and the spines don't crack anymore, but that's what happens when you open a book many, many times.

And Now...A Word About Internet Safety - Week 2, #4

Three words, actually: DON'T BE STUPID. Seriously. Most of the internet "tips" on safety are simple common sense. Don't give out personal information, don't write anything that you wouldn't announce over a PA system and don't post anything you'd be ashamed to show your mother. Good advice, especially the last one.

The problem is that the internet deludes us into a false sense of anonymity. Sitting here, tapping away at my keyboard right now, in the privacy of my home, I'm feeling pretty damn brave. I'm likely to tell everyone my address, phone number, SS # and take candy from everyone who offers it to me. I'm running through this blog with scissors in my hand and I don't care if I trip! Somehow, it feels safe here and I couldn't be more wrong. The net is populated by millions of intelligent, fun, weird and wacky folks, and some of these are one eggroll short of a Happy Family Combo plate, if you know what I mean. And you want to tell these people where you live??

Just don't be stupid, listen to your Mom....and always look both ways before crossing the street.

Late Night Blogger - Week 1, #2

I think it's hard to escape being a bibliophile without also harboring a yearning to learn. Why open a book if not to find out more about...possibilities? For me, learning a new skill (like blogging) is like reading a book that you're not sure if you're going to get through. I am tentative at first. I figure, if I can get through those first 3 chapters I'm pretty much home free. Then, if the subject is not grabbing me, it becomes a challenge to see if I can hit the halfway mark. I'm a fairly tenacious learner and an even more reluctant quitter, especially if pride is a factor. If Oprah's book club can slog it through this snore-fest, then gosh darn it, so can I! So far, learning about blogs has been a quick learn. My biggest challenge so far has been figuring out what to write AND getting it done before midnight! Zzzzz....

Ehh?? Speak Up!

I can't remember the first time I realized that I was old(er). Was it when someone in my own circle of friends turned 50? The first gray hair? Maybe. To tell you the truth, I don't feel my age - 46. Ask anyone who is past 40 and they will tell you that they have to do a mental double-take to tell you their age. In our minds, we stopped counting years ago. Some might say that it's a result of our years that we have to pause and think about it (ha ha) but I believe it's more a case of the number being less important than the experience.

Perhaps it's an indication of my mental state, but I remember with absolute clarity the details of my childhood. My early adulthood is more fuzzy. Hmmm... I'm able to recall all the words to my groovy favorite television show themes but can't remember much about those first two years in college. And no, I don't drink. Childhood is usually characterized by being care-free. I suppose that's why all those details are etched in my memory. I remember what the inside of my Liddle Kiddles lunchbox smelled like: vinyl and bananas. And I can still hear the "click click" sound our principal's lucite heels made on the terrazzo floors of Thomas Albert Sinclair Elementary School. What was the deal with the smell of mimeograph paper? Ask anyone who went to school in the '60's and they will remember cold purple ink and eagerly inhaling that methyl alcohol vapor. Damn stuff was probably frying our brains, which probably explains our fashion choices in the '70s. Yecch.

So the first part of my life is like a vivid cartoon...the middle -- sort of like cable tv on a bad weather day. Then, when you have children it's like going through your own childhood again, only as an observer. You experience all the first joys, the fears, the excitement, but through someone else's eyes - so it's familiar but fresh. And it's absolutely invigorating. It's the closest thing to the fountain of youth you will ever experience.

In two months, my baby turns 18. I *should* feel old...but I don't. Maybe I should say, "yet." I'm in fairly good health, try to eat well and get exercise. I have Maroon 5 on my iPod and I'd die before I'd wear "comfortable shoes." I feel...okay. Therefore, I am subscribing to the adage that you are only as old as your feel. If that's the case, then I will write more after I watch that Scooby Doo episode on late night tv. It's amazing what you can get away with if not for those meddling kids.

"She is too fond of books, and it has addled her brain." ~ Louisa May Alcott

It's true, I have had a lifelong friendship with books and, yes, sometimes I feel like I'm losing my mind although the two may or may not be connected. I can't ever remember a time when I wasn't reading, whether it was solving mysteries with Nancy Drew, having coffee in a hollow tree with Pippi Longstocking or keeping an eye on naughty Ramona the Pest. Nancy was cool and smart...and looked so fashionable in her pedal pushers. Pippi was spunky and quirky and lived life on her own terms, and Ramona...well, you didn't know if you wanted to spank her or just give her a big hug. I hope girls today are reading books like these and not just (ugh) Strawberry Shortcake and Barbie Fairytopia (gag). I was never into the "princess mentality." I'm old enough to remember petticoats and it ain't pretty.

By junior high I was deep into the adventures of Sam Gribley in "My Side of the Mountain" or the courage of the Indian girl in "Island of the Blue Dolphins." I loved the idea of being able to survive on your own with only your imagination to rely on....and a faithful animal friend, if you're fortunate. And to this day, any book that talks about food in great detail is MY kind of read.

Today, in addition to everything Harry Potter, I am addicted to historical or political thrillers, which I often stay up until 3:00 a.m. reading. I'm a huge fan of anything by Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child or James Rollins. I'm fascinated by the cleverness of these types of novels and how sophisticated we're expected to be as readers. Unfortunately, I'm the dork who has to keep going back to the beginning of the book going, "Now, WHO was THAT guy?" or "Ohhh...THAT'S why they want the artifact." Duh. Oh well, they're a great ride.

Well, now I've told you everything you need to know about me. As Pippi says, "Go home now so that you can come back tomorrow. Because if you don't go home, you can't come back, and that would be a shame."

Pssst!

Okay, so it's not really a secret but a small explanation for the title of my blog. Most of it is rather self-explanatory (gee, can you crack that code?) but I chose the word "secret" because I'm basically a private person. So you see, the idea of "blogging" and (God forbid) PUBLISHING is pretty scary to me. I'm more likely to talk about my wonderful, amazing son, Tristan - whose picture you see to the right of this post - or about my freakishly intelligent dog, Sam, whose picture you see at the beginning of this post. I can pretty much promise you that you'll never see a photo of yours truly on this blog. But hey, look at what a cutie he is....isn't that enough?

What Am I Doing Here?

It's highly unlikely I would be writing here if not for the sharp stick in my back that IS "professional development." Oh well, it promises to be a valuable learning experience and sometimes, that is enough. Here's to the experience...and also, to a teeny bit of an adventure.