Islandgirls World

Steps of the Road

2006-11-19T19:43:00.000-08:00

The smells slowly returned and soon she could even breathe again, but it was the smells which gained her attention. Invading every orifice in her body, they wrapped themselves around and through her, weaving their way into the weak areas where they could grow and themselves, become stronger. Sickening dull pulsed. The battle was difficult and she searched within herself for the strength that she knew lie beneath the surface. It was there, she could feel it slowly beating within her, changing moment by moment, steady in character but only a minute piece of her. It would have to do.

Her hands shook uncharacteristically and in an attempt to calm, they became tangled in her hair as she took several steps back. She needed a drink.

Opening the appropriate kitchen cabinet she stared vacantly at the small array of bottles which had sat in those same spots, mostly untouched, for years. Neither of them had ever been real drinkers. Mind you, she reminded herself, in seconds her entire life had changed and simple knowledge could no longer be relied upon as factual. She had been a fool to believe in him. How many years had it been?

Picking up the bottle closest to her, she brought it to the table accompanied by a glass, a small one, just to be safe. It was all she could do but stare at the bottle and despite the dread and sickness she felt, a smile escaped. She had purchased the alcohol for Christmas baking purposes and now it was used for yet another celebration of sorts.

It burned as it went down, scorching its way through the uncertainties, the dark liquid attempting to sooth as a pathway cleared. Physical body now under control, she got up, locked the door, and poured herself another drink and breathed. This time the air was clean and less confining; sweet. Freedom usually is.

Is Hell Exothermic or Endothermic?

2006-11-04T13:03:00.000-08:00

The following is an actual question given on a University of Washington chemistry mid-term.

The answer by one student was so "profound" that the professor shared it with colleagues, via the Internet, which is, of course, why we now have the pleasure of enjoying it as well:

Bonus Question: Is Hell exothermic (gives off heat) or endothermic (absorbs heat)?
Most of the students wrote proofs of their beliefs using Boyle's Law (gas cools when it expands and heats when it is compressed) or some variant.

One student, however, wrote the following:

First, we need to know how the mass of Hell is changing in time. So we need to know the rate at which souls are moving into Hell and the rate at which they are leaving. I think that we can safely assume that once a soul gets to Hell, it will not leave. Therefore, no souls are leaving. As for how many souls are entering Hell, let's look at the different religions that exist in the world today. Most of these religions state that if you are not a member of their religion, you will go to Hell. Since there is more than one of these religions and since people do not belong to more than one religion, we can project that all souls go to Hell. With birth and death rates as they are, we can expect the number of souls in Hell to increase exponentially. Now, we look at the rate of change of the volume in Hell because Boyle's Law states that in order for the temperature and pressure in Hell to stay the same, the volume of Hell has to expand proportionately as souls are added.

This gives two possibilities:
1. If Hell is expanding at a slower rate than the rate at which souls enter Hell, then the temperature and pressure in Hell will increase until all Hell breaks loose.
2. If Hell is expanding at a rate faster than the increase of souls in Hell, then the temperature and pressure will drop until Hell freezes over.

So which is it?

If we accept the postulate given to me by Teresa during my Freshman year that, "It will be a cold day in Hell before I sleep with you," and take into account the fact that I slept with her last night, then number two must be true, and thus I am sure that Hell is exothermic and has already frozen over. The corollary of this theory is that since Hell has frozen over, it follows that it is not accepting any more souls and is therefore, extinct......leaving only Heaven, thereby proving the existence of a divine being which explains why, last night, Teresa kept shouting "Oh my God."

THIS STUDENT RECEIVED THE ONLY "A"

A Halloween Story

2006-11-04T13:01:00.000-08:00

(Notations in Italics are Chatter contributions)

It was a dark and stormy night, the wind whipping the trees into a frenzied shadowed dance as leaves left their security and flew about through the air. The moon illuminated the sky giving off a strange glow, only appropriate for this particular night.

I had no idea what to expect, I had heard many rumors over the years but never before had I found the courage to go and I was overwhelmed with my own anticipation and hardly cared when wet leaves plastered themselves to the side of my face and body. I was on a mission.

As I rounded the corner my blood turned cold and a deep shiver ran down my spine. There it was – the IKEA sign announcing their 75% off sale! I couldn’t help myself and ran to the window, looking inside. I wanted it all! I made my way to the door and it opened by itself (‘course, it was an automatic door, but never mind). Once inside, I could tell things we not as they should be, there were no other shoppers to be seen, no crowds, and then that unmistakable thought struck me: what if there are no cashiers, what will I do, I never carry cash!

Suddenly, I heard a crash coming from living room area. Slowly I made my way, my heart pumping quickly. While passing through the kitchen area, I picked up a large rubber spatula in case I needed protection or had a need to spank someone. I turned a corner and found lots of little ghools and goblins and witches standing there. "Trick or Treat," they said, and as I placed IKEA cinnamon cookies into their buckets, the little scary creatures asked "why is there a naked, dizzy cat jumping around in the snow in your front yard?"

Clearly feeling the children were experiencing a brain frozen induced sugar overdose, I directed them towards the children’s play area only to come across what the world has never seen anything as grotesque or evil as what was standing before me. Why Dodgeman was wearing Islandgirl’s coconut bra remains unclear. “Hey! That’s mine, I exclaimed and de-bra-ed him. He ran off screaming, clasping his boobs.

It was mahem! Trying to get my bearings I was nearly knocked over by a “Look out!” exclaimed Cajunbug. “It’s a chainsaw wielding hamster!!!” Zee wasn't far behind.

I joined several others on a table to keep our toes intact and was shocked by what we saw next. Aleighcat, Dizzycat and Katfox were chasing the rodent, their tails bobbing behind them. I felt sorry for the rodent until I realized the rodent was actually FishyNorm in disguise, clearly having planned this all along.

Strange and eerie music was being played over the store intercom and once I pried Moosie’s hands off my coconuts (she didn’t appear THAT scared) I found my way to the refreshments table. Someone had brought a kitty litter cake and Gertie was looking at it intensely. She warned me not to try it as she had good authority that it was quite authentic.

Goofball leaned over to me (whom I didn’t recognize because he was dressed in drag) and said, "uh -oh, that's going to be painful ... yet feel good for every body else". I couldn’t help myself, but grabbed a part of his costume and asked him, “Do these work?

Maestro approached and I hardly recognized him with all the recent tattoos and piercings and he demanded we toast the evening but only after we all fill out a Suduko puzzle. I glared over at him, an incredulous look on my face! Stunned and shocked, I just continued to stare at him with a smile on my face because I knew this would drive him insane plus I had never seen a grown man wear pasties before.

I could overhear Brad telling Lost, “Don't let Mooselove and SaraSquiggly fool you, we've seen them in a thong before!

Stumbling blindly, no really, blindly, I was wearing a blindfold somebody stuck on me, my hands felt something large, warm and immensely round. Oh, and hard too and then it was accompanied by a small, evil little laugh. Pulling off the blindfold because I wouldn’t fall for THAT again, I saw CajunBug smashed a creature's head open with her broom, and poured its brains into her cauldron .... I decided to pass on the punch which was labeled quite aptly, “Titicaca”. You really didn't think we would never say titicaca at some point, didja?

All of a sudden the lights went out and screaming ensued. I could make out shadows in the dark, felt a little groping and I pulled at what I perceived to be bandages. Slowly I was unwinding something and from the conversations I overheard, I thought perhaps it was my mind:

“Who does that uppity Goofball think he is...I love being a mandarin!”

“Why did they ask me if I enjoyed Kipling? I've never kipled before”

“No, move your hands, your feet can stay where they are. I just don't know how she does it!”

“Gertie learned never to use dish soap in the dishwasher...what a mess”

“Lost left the pizza box in the oven and it caught on fire and the fire department had to come and pump fresh air into my smoke filled house”

“You're too young to know all the names of the beatles"
The lights kept flickering, so I could see tidbits including Sara who took pictures as AleighCat who had bared her claws and shredded Goofball's shorts into a hula skirt .....

Fearing for their lives, but also knowing this would be the only rest they would have, Island Girl, Frog and Tiggy sat underneath the tree (yes IKEA has them) and opened a lovely bottle of Sauvignon Blanc. Just as the cork left the bottle, an ungodly scream was heard …we looked over and saw poor Apelog knocked cold on the floor by the cork. Luckily, Dodgeman had returned from his bra fiasco and offered to do mouth to mouth which caused Apelog to quickly recover. “Wow” he said, “ this was the week that I was away for a wedding and therefore the reason that I didn't do the race this time”. We gave him a swig of wine and he stopped talking gibberish.

In the distance, could it be? OMG … Phil … Phil didn’t look like Phil. Actually was it Phil? The person (man, woman, child????) scared us out of our mind. It wasn’t a person at all but Spygirl and Katfox believed he looked an awful lot like the (gulp) headless horsemen! (Don’t they know he wears makeup on TV?) They ran as fast as they could to the hotel and locked the door. For once, Phil didn’t look too cute to either of them.

Bad Employee and ShnMom were deep in conversation but not about numbers, rather fashion of all things. "These leggings come in "blueberry" and "mint". They also come in "bone"...

My drinking got the best of me and I fell into a deep sleep. When I woke up, I was in front of my computer early one morning reading an e-mail from a trusted friend, when all at once a demon burst out of seemingly innocent version of Jingle Bells.

I sat up, realizing I must have dreamt the whole Chatters Halloween Party. As I got up from my chair, I felt something fall to the ground. If anyone is missing an orange and black thong, let me know. Oh wait ... no hehe sorry, um its mine.

HAPPY HALLOWEEN GANG!!

Islandgirl

Everybody Now ...

2006-05-28T13:17:00.000-07:00

So many of us share this planet it boggles the mind. When we truly think of it - you know, are forced to honestly conceive of the enormity, it really is overwhelming.

My research reveals that the earth's population is currently 3,538,264,234,096 and constantly rising. Alright, I admit I didn't do any research and these numbers are based entirely on where my fingers happened to hit the keyboard, but come on, we're talking billions of people - you get my point.

Now think of those people. Choose an unfamiliar country and place yourself there. This place needn't be a wished vacation spot or a previously visited country, it could be anywhere, it doesn't matter as long as there are people. Now imagine you are outside of a physical body so that you are not really a part of the human race, but simply an observer. What are the people you are seeing doing (if it's a private matter you are not getting this exercise and I suggest you switch locales, perhaps this time choosing a northern country). Bad reader.

My point is that no matter where there are people, there is energy. We are energy. Little bundles of energy inside physical bodies working, doing and going someplace for some reason. Even sleeping we dream and are re-charging ourselves so that we can later go and accomplish an act of some sort. Have you ever met a person who is not doing something? Some, when asked, will say they're not doing anything, but this is mostly from teenagers who don't wish to be accused of anything by their parents and who can blame them. The fact is, our minds are always working, always generating, and we are always looking ahead to what the next moment will bring or what we can do to bring it forward ourselves.

Some of us focus our lives purely on the physical act of accomplishment, but I would like to concentrate on the power of the mind, for surely there is no stronger entity.

Everyone on this planet is here to learn, and in order to learn there will be mistakes made. This is simply misdirected energy, but necessary nonetheless. And in our society we can rest assured (sarcasm intended) that these events will be highly publicized and quickly followed by an intense need to blame someone and change something. We will wish to redirect our energy to solve the problem; this is a human trait and through this process we will learn. From school shootings to natural disasters to war-torn countries which have been in conflict for centuries which we often forget.

It is my personal belief that everything happens for a reason. Evolvement can only take place through learning.

I direct my mind to those countries where refugee children have never known peace in their lifetimes - perhaps they have no concept of it. Many of us feel badly for these young people but what about doing more? Certainly, donating money for relief is extremely helpful and I would never begin to discourage those type of efforts, but there is something else we can all do and in this day of monetary concerns, it's nice to know that it doesn't cost us a thing, in fact, it will brighten our own lives providing it is done with sincerity.

Think positive thoughts only, and follow it with a smile.

Corny, perhaps, but negativism is like a yawn - it's highly contagious, and if you are around it long enough it will eventually penetrate even the most toughest exterior, meaning the nicest of people. We've all seen this in our own lives. If someone comes off bad to you, what is your human instinct? Right - to protect yourself and how do many of us do that? Defense mechanisms kick in and it is here that we have a choice. We need to remind ourselves that negative attracts negative here and that we can fight this, all it takes is a little energy, if we are willing to expend it.

Try to imagine, if you can, what would happen if we were able to pool the world's most powerful energy resources. Parents often say, myself included, that if we could harness the energy of our children we'd be rich. When we say this, we refer to their physical energy, but how much more important is mental energy? We all have it, and intent breeds action, so why not try it in your own day to day lives?

Next time someone shoots forth negativism to you, be it road rage, temper tantrums, or a stranger making your life seemingly more difficult, just refuse to be the target by eliminating it. Just duck and smile, pull together intent and send back positive thoughts all of which uses less energy than the alternative. Besides, it certainly couldn't hurt and may even bring down your own blood pressure. You never know, you could be preventing a much more serious incident down the road. Become a teacher of patience, for the world is a very large school and there is always room for improvement.

Japanese Gardens, Seattle, WA

2006-05-15T15:03:00.000-07:00

Leg 12 answers and Chat Race Results!!

2006-05-15T13:32:00.000-07:00

Congrats to all chatracers ... this isn't an easy race to do and and I know many of you often rushed to your computers, put children aside (for a moment or two) and sometimes, even missed a meal, not to mention driving antics to get home in time (Brad)! Thanks for your dedication, it made the race a wonderful experience for all of us online friends. I loved writing it and loved connecting with all of you again through this medium.

The results are in: CONGRATS TO TEAM APELOG - Winner of the 2006 AmazingChat Race. (Your $1 Million wooden Canadian nickels have been placed in a large baggie and attached to a Killer Whale via a lovely sharktooth necklace and set free in the Pacific with your address in Maine. Call me when he arrives)

#1 Family Ape - 300 pts for arrival + 480 pts + 2860 = 3640

#2 CATastrophe - 200 pts for arrival + 385 pts + 2905 = 3490

#3 Maestro - 100 pts for arrival + 675 pts + 2631 = 3406

Notes of interest:
- Maestro was the only one who received the whopping 300 pts on number 30. The detail on every single destination our chatrace visited was impressive! He should have received extra points for highlighting the General Knowledge questions in their applicable color as well as - so pretty and very appreciated but no extra points. Nice try!
- Thank you to Goofball for questions 17-29. In honor of his assistance, he was won the covetted Islandgirl Grasskirt Award and may wear it at any occassion he sees fit (as long as he takes a picture and shares).

Answers from Leg 12:

1. What was the name of the Airport in Australia? Darwin Airport
2. What did the table of offerings to the monkeys consist of? Fruit
3. How many pots had to be transferred? 72
4. How did teams travel to the Marble Temple? Taxi
5. How many pots did Monica deliver on her second trip? 2

General Knowledge of the game – without cutting and pasting, explain briefly in your own words the rules and how these work. For extra points, tell me what color the sign is which represents it.

6. Fast Forward - Green - the FF allows the first team that finds it to skip all remaining tasks on that leg of the race and proceed directly to the Pit Stop

7. Detour - Yellow - a Detour is a choice between two tasks

8. Yield - Yellow - the Yield which was introduced in Season 5 allows any one team to force another team to stop racing for a predetermined amount of time (1 hr)

9. Roadblock - Red - a Roadblock is a task which only one team member may perform. Before heading into a Roadblock, teams read a vague clue about the task to come.

10. Penalty – (extra points if you can name 2 past examples of a team which were penalized and why) An example of a penalty is when a team takes a different mode of transportation than listed, takes too many clues, misses a stop and proceeds to the pitstop, etc.

11. Route Markers - yellow/red - route markers indicate the correct path the racers need to go. These were not yellow and red in Season while in Vietnam ... it is the former flag of South Vietnam and would have caused political issues.

Look at the following pictures and tell me the name of the racers and which Season they raced:

12. Pic 1 - Chris and Jon (Season 6)

13. Pic 2 - Gretchen and Meredith (Season 7)

14. Pic 3 – Blake and Paige (Season 2)

15. Pic 4 – Debbie and Bianca (Season 7)

16. Pic 5 – Kevin and Drew (Season 1)

17. In AR2 which duo made the final three, yet lost the final leg, in spite of the fact it was their home town? Tara and Will 5 pts

18. Which racer returned to a country in which he was previously a war time soldier? Name the country and the racer. Vietnam / Ian 5 pts

19. In AR6 the majority of teams were from what job category? Show Business (this is true whether you include modeling or not) 5 pts

20. In AR4 which racer refused to participate in any post-race events when he/she was eliminated? Name this racer. Russell 20 pts

21. In a latter race, what was called “the world’s biggest pothole” and which season? The Grand Canyon / AR8 5 pts

22. What is rule about smoking during the race? It is forbidden from beginning to finish even at pit stops 20 pts (I'm pretty sure after sex its ok)

23. In AR5, one person cried on the elimination of one of the teams. Who cried, and what team was eliminated? Phil cried when Charla and Mirna were eliminated 20 pts

24. Who refused a fast forward that would have required shaving his/her head and why? Brandon and Nicole - they were models and it may have hurt their careers 5 pts

25. In AR3, several racers made a mistake with their vehicles that occurs commonly when North Americans go to Europe. What is this mistake? Not using diesel gasoline 5 pts

26. There are two Seasons that did not circumnavigate the globe: One was AR 8 (“family edition”). What is the other? AR 7 20 pts

27. In AR7 one the racers completed the fast forward by shaving his/her head. Who completed this and why did only one team member have to do it? Joyce and Uchenna / Joyce 9Uchenna is already "bald") 10 pts

28. Other than the final leg, is it possible for more than one team to arrive at a pit stop first? Does every one receive the same prize? In leg 3 of AR4, yes to both 10 pts

29. Two of these island destinations have not yet appeared in the Amazing Race: Australia, Bermuda, Iceland, Hawaii, Victoria. Name which two and why they are important to our own chatrace? By the way, the chatrace has gone to 3 of those places humph ... Phil, call me ... Bermuda (Tiggy) and Victoria, BC (Islandgirl) 10 pts

Our chatrace has taken us to many destinations ...

30. Name the destinations where our chatrace has taken us and in order. I will help you out ... first off was Seattle, Washington ... (large points if you get them all correct and in order of occurance, smaller points given for other). Tokyo, Japan / Australia / Germany / Hawaii / San Francisco / Scotland / Rome / Canary Islands / Africa / Egypt. 300 pts

We also had two “theme races” which focused on something other than travel.
31. Name both theme race topics. Food / Games 100 pts (read the question ... we HAD)

What is a race without a little drama in the background? Two chatters had some tense moments in the MooseLodge but have since fully recovered.
32. Name the two chatters. Dizzycat / Sara 20 pts

Another dramatic moment occurred when one chatter YIELDED another in a fast move which in turn eliminated another team.
33. Name the chatters who got eliminated by the mean old YIELDER (lol). Bad and Brad 20 pts

34. Name the chatracers who learned how to play pool in order to interact with the current racers. Bad Employee, Sara and Brad 30 pts

We had a great time, thanks for every who played and hope you all had as much fun as I did! We are almost there! Go to: http://home.att.net/~cecw/lastpage.htm

35. What color of font have they used? Black 5 pts

Cheers! Islandgirl

Amazing Chatrace - Leg 11 (results)

2006-05-07T14:45:00.000-07:00

First off, thanks to BadEmployee, BigBrad, and SaraSquiggley for assisting with the Yahoo Pool activity. None had ever played a game prior to my asking them to help. Behind the scenes, they practiced and practiced ... and still all of them lost games to you! lol Good sports all of them - thank you!

As you know, two teams have been eliminated which leaves the final three remaining to square off next week. To clarify, arrival pts were increased as you will note, 100 pts given to a game of pool, and if you emailed me an item FROM Ebay (and no, you DID NOT have to enter in a credit card number for this, I certainly didn't and neither did other racers) you got 100 pts plus what the item was going for, rounded off (ie. wacky dice thongs with red fuzzy decoration lmao ShnMom ... going for $7.95 so pts were 100 + 8 = 108 pts). The results are as follows:

#1 CATastrophe - #1 arrival 100 pts + pool game 100 pts + 160 game pts + 2545 = 2905

#2 FamilyApe - #3 arrival 60 pts + pool game 100 pts + 112 Ebay + 175 game pts + 2413 = 2860

#3 Maestro - #4 arrival 40 pts + pool game 100 pts + 113 Ebay + 125 game pts + 2253 = 2631

Sorry to say, these teams have been eliminated:

#4 ShnMom - #5 arrival 20 pts + pool game 100 pts + 108 Ebay + 175 game pts + 2183 = 2586

#5 Spygal/Katfox - #2 arrival 80 pts + pool game 100 pts + 95 game pts + 2238 = 2513

Notes of potential controversy:
- Second half of questions were not accepted from Spygal team as chatrace rules have always been, first email received from a team is the one accepted UNLESS it is recinded and asked to be replaced. This was not done, however, for discussion purposes, IF I had accepted part one and part two emails together, the "part two" email would have added only an additional 5 pts anyhow.

The answers: 5 pts each
1. How much money did the Hippies beg from people on their flight? $300
2. Who said the Amazing Race has ruined their sex life? Fran and Barry
3. How far did the racers have to ride a bike? 3 miles
4. When was Fremantle Prision shut down? 1991

From last week’s show:
5. Who was the last team to get a taxi? Eric and Jeremy (Karma, baby!)
6. What was the name of the park with the animals in it? Crocadylus Park
7. What time did the gates of the park open? 9:00 am
8. How many teams were going to YIELD MoJo? 2
9. Name the racers who parachuted and what order they jumped. BJ, Eric, Ray, Monica
10. What is the name of the instrument teams had to play? Digerieadoo (spelling sucks)

You know what we need to do? PLAY!!! We all work so hard at our jobs (those who have them) and we need to spend some time relaxing playing games. Ok, lets face it, most games are NOT relaxing but this IS an elimination round and the points for arrival are significantly higher than previous. ‘Course the points for questions are high, low and negative. You just never know whether its in your interest to answer a question or not.

Its all about taking the gamble.

Choose a gaming site of your own accord, shake down the people in there or draw your own knowledge and bring me back the answers to these questions:

11. What is this hand called? Royal Flush 5 pts

12. What beats this hand? Nothing in a real game of Poker - no real game of poker uses wild cards therefore 5 of a Kind would be impossible. Go to Vegas, ask them! -5 pts

Ok, how easy was that? Now, tell me:

13. At what event is the song, “Maryland, My Maryland” sung? Preakness Stakes, Horsie Racing 20 pts
14. In the Board game, “Game of Life” (70/80s version) what happened when you landed on “Lucky Day”? Won $20,000 and could gamble it for possible $100,000 30 pts
15. A new “feel good” movie is out which Oprah fully supports. What challenge event is featured in this movie? Spelling Bee -20 pts
16. Go into the official website which features the sequel to the best selling Star Wars video game of all time. Tell me what are the 3 new features that distinguish it from the first version? -50 pts (this would have been a great one to skip, I would have)
17. What game is this pictured below? Mahjongg 50 pts

ROADBLOCK: This is a task which only one team member can perform which you have chosen already. Your task involves playing a game of online pool with an eliminated chatracer. Don’t panic, simply follow these directions carefully. 100 pts for game played / -100 for no game played / -1,300 pts for bad sportsmanship

Welcome to the interactive part of our race which serves as number 18 and needs to be accomplished in order to receive further questions.

If you do not already have one, you need to register for a Yahoo ID. Go to:
http://games.yahoo.com/games/front at the top of the page it will ask you to Sign In, or Sign Up. If you require a Yahoo ID, follow instructions on how to sign up (use a name that we will recognize as being you). If you are lucky enough to have an Yahoo ID, sign in now. Make sure to turn off your pop-up blockers.

- Scroll to Arcade Games, double click on Pool
- Click to continue
- Scroll down to see the List of Game Rooms (select Social level)
- Scroll until you see the Pool Hall titled, “Good Times” and double click on it to get in

Once you have arrived, you are considered “in the lobby”. You are in a race to find an ex chatracer opponent before the other racers do as there are only THREE people to find (do NOT look for Islandgirl as I am floating):
- Tophat 007 (BigBrad)
- Taxwomanll (BadEmployee)
- SaraSquiggly (Sara)

Click on JOIN beside one of their names in order to pop into the pool room - and quickly - as once all three noted above are playing a game with chatracers, the other two teams that remain must wait until a table is open with one of these people before their game can begin. This is a type of YIELD for two teams if you like. Anyone can join a room and wait and watch until the game is completed. I will be bouncing from room to room, watching closely as well.

Once in the chatroom, your “host” will inform you on what is required. After your task is completed, your pool partner will inform me you have completed your task and I will then email you your lovely yellow envelope (it will come in the form of an email) with your further clues to finish the race. Good Luck!!!

Chatrace 2006 – Leg 11 - continued

Congrats on a great game of pool, or not as the case may be. Hope you had fun. Based on playing, tell me:

19. How do you aim a pool cue in cyber pool? Hold down left clicker of mouse 10 pts
20. How do you inform your opponent which pocket you plan on sinking the 8 ball? Move the Red arrow 5 pts
21. What should you do after every game. Type in gg ... “good game” 20 pts

In a real game of pool, its very different of course. Go to:
http://www.pool-table-rules.com/

22. In which set of rules is it the goal to score 101 points? Cowboy Rules -10 pts
23. The first record of a pool table dates back to 1470, when King Louis XI of France possessed one. What was different from this pool table to those that we know of today? It had no pockets, but it did have a hole in the centre of the table. 20 pts
24. Who knew that Dice was a game in itself? Dice come on everything it seems these days. Do me a favor and check out Ebay and see if they still have that purse that I like, its a Chanel, white outside, red inside ... gorgeous! What is it called? Authentic Chanel Dice Bag. 50 pts
25. Find me another item on Ebay to do with dice and email me from that spot so I can see what you chose. 100 + pts based on the cost of item

Ok, email back the answers asap and meet me at the matt which is in the Moose Lodge. This Leg of the race, it isn’t enough to simply email the answers, you need to come into the Lodge and tell me directly: “I’m a Gamer”. That said, the email will be accepted.

If you have any complaints, please note that that department is temporarily closed down for repairs

Cheers! Islandgirl

Amazing Chatrace - Leg 10 (results)

2006-04-25T10:27:00.000-07:00

This was a very easy Leg of the race and most of you only got one or two questions wrong, or simply selected an answer worth less points. As you know, this was a non elimination round. Results:

#1 CATastrophe - 1st arrival 50 + 160 + 2335 = 2545

#2 Family Ape - 4th arrival 35 + 180 + 2198 = 2413

#3 Maestro -5th arrival 30 + 155 + 2068 = 2253

#4 Katfox / Spygirl - 2nd arrival 45 + 165 + 2028 = 2238

#5 ShnMom - 3rd arrival 40 + 140 + 2003 = 2183

Answers:
The Amazing Race questions from last week: 5 pts each
1. How much money did the teams get for this leg of the race? $53
2. In the Roadblock, how many watchtowers were there to search? 3
3. What animals could be seen at the watchtower? Goat
4. What were Team Hippy shown when the turned in the silver? Silver Knife
5.What colors were on the flag in Gabreen Castle? Green, Red, White

~ ~ ~

Realizing what an emotional toll this chatrace can be (not to mention physical [ha]) I think we should take a few moments to collect ourselves and evaluate whether we are balanced enough to continue our race. Go to: http://www.thebluedot.com/sane/index0.html and do the quiz and tell me:

Where on the scale did you end up? (Tell me where your arrow pointed closest). Random points for random sanity. If you did this, 15 pts / If you did not -15 pts

I know what you are now thinking WTF was that about? Consider it a stretching exercise prior to the race.

Go into our buddy Phil’s website (you know Phil and if you don’t, what DO you watch Wednesday nights?). Go into the Galleries, View the Galleries and view the video on Randy Piper and John Quiggley.

Does the video tape tell or show us what John Quiggley plans to design in his arial art? Yes – 20 pts
How many buddies does Randy Piper see while on his NOW adventure? 2 5 pts
Where was Phil born? Christchurch, New Zealand 5 pts

Still in Africa, go to: http://www.sacredsites.com/africa/egypt/great_pyramid.html Reading through the article, its really interesting. Tell me:

How do Arab customs vary between burying men and women? men flat room, women in rooms with gabled ends. 5 pts
What type of metal was used in the saws that most likely cut and shaped the blocks of the pyramid blocks on the Great Pyramid? Copper / Bronze 10 pts
Who is Antoine Bovis? Discovered that heat and humidity, bodies did not decay but instead dehydrated. 10 pts
What is the greatest monumental sculpture in the ancient world, carved out of a single ridge of stone 240 feet long and 66 feet high? The Sphinx 5 pts

Whew! I’m thirsty romping around all that sand. What we need is a Karkady. Tell me:

What is in Karkady and what color is it? Dried hisbiscus flowers and sugar / Red 10 pts

I think we should enjoy this drink while crusing down the Nile.Go to: http://touregypt.net/egyptnilecruises.htm and choose one of the three cruise ships which have pictures showing.

What is the name of the ship you would choose to cruise on? A & K Sunboat (40 pts) / Paramisa (30 pts) / Soleil (1.5 pts – who would choose this one???)

We are in luck, they are serving typical Egyptian food. Choose one of the following and tell me what this is, and without cutting and pasting the entire recipe, tell me in your own words basically how to cook the dish.

- Hamam Mahshi bi Burghul (Cornish Hens with Bulgur, Raisins, and Pine Nuts) 50 pts
- Ma'loobet el Bedingan (Eggplant with Rice Casserole) 35 pts
- Asabi' gullash bi-l-lahma (Dry Pastery Fingers with Meat Filling) 20 pts

Go to: http://12121.hostinguk.com/walkegyptian.htm (this cracks me up). According to these lyrics:

Where are the cops? Donut shop 5 pts
What color are the crocodiles? Gold 5 pts
Who first recorded this song? Bangles 5 pts
Part of this song uses no instruments but music is made how? Whistling 5 pts

Of Special Note: (where did my numbers go above, oh well ...)

#3 Goats were featured on the hills several times / #7 I wanted the answer to this question which was Yes - not facts / #11 Having read the article, answers were given which is what I was looking for.

The next leg is scheduled for Monday, May 8, 7 pm Pacific as usual. This will be an interactive Leg which should be alot of fun !!!

Results of Leg 9

2006-04-16T19:24:00.000-07:00

Chatrace 2006 – Leg 9 - Results

An easier and faster race than the last leg, all teams did well and made it to the matt in reasonable time. The scores are as follows:

#1 CATastrophe - arrival #2 - 45 + 195 + 2100 = 2340

#2 Family Ape - arrival #3 - 40 + 120 + 2038 = 2198

#3 Maestro - arrival #5 - 30 + 95 + 1948 = 2073

#4 Spygirl / Katfox - arrival #4 - 35 + 205 + 1788 = 2028

#5 ShnMom - arrival #1 - 50 + 120 + 1833 = 2003

#6 Sara/Lost arrival #6 - 25 + 130 = 1788 = 1943

Sadly, Sara and Lost, you are the last team to arrive, therefore you have been eliminated from the Amazing Chatrace.

Answers:

The Amazing Race questions from last weeks show: 5 pts each
1. Who said they thought Lake is bi-polar? Eric / Jeremy
2. On which airline did the teams fly to Athens? Olympia
3. Which teams tried for the FF? (you need all of them) Eric/Jeremy, Fran/Barry/MoJo
4. What was the name of the bungy place? Zulu Bungy

Remember where we were? Known to the ancient Greeks as The Fortunate Islands, the Canary Islands are indeed blessed: exuberantly green and temperate all year-round. There are seven islands in the archipelago:

5. Name the seven islands. Gran Canaria, Tenerife, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, La Palma, La Gomera, and El Hierro. 5 pts
6. Consult a map and tell me, which island is closest to a continent, which continent, and by how many miles? Fuerteventura / Africa / 60 miles 15 pts

See the following series of pictures and tell me:

Pic 1

Pic 2

Pic 3

Pic 4

Pic 5

7. Which pictures were taken in the continent mentioned in #6? (You must get all pictures listed correctly in order to receive points) 1 (Zanzabar), 2 (Jackass Penguin), 3 (Marakesh). NOT TAKEN IN AFRICA: 4 (Woodland Park Zoo, Seattle, WA) and 5 (Iceland). 90 pts

Go to: http://www.africaguide.com/ As I am sure you are aware, Africa is full of amazing animals. Lets go on a safari, choosing the 11 day Classic Safari-Kenya.

8. How much does this package cost in US funds? $1,925 which includes a 10% discount which THEN costs $1,733/person 10 pts
9. Not having had enough Pink Flamingos, which day see them on our trip? Day 4 5 pts
10. Speaking of Flamingos, give me the number of the question on a previous chatrace which had you sending me a picture of them. Leg 6, Question 12 20 pts

Some interesting facts (just pretend I am narrating from the front of the jeep), looking cute in my eucalyptus colored Lole Women's Wise Skort and tangerine Horny Toad Roar T-Shirt which is a short-sleeve cotton tee with an attitude because I am a woman, hear me Roar! I came prepared with a lovely wardrobe and was smart, I bought in the US prior to coming.

11. How much did my outfit cost me? $84.90 100 pts
12. What animal has a tongue up to 45 cm long? Giraffe 5 pts
13. Seals consume a lot of fish, approximately up to how much of their own body weight daily? 8% 20 pts
14. What Amphibian has a body which can be more than foot long and its entire length, back legs extended, is often more than two and a half feet. (They have been known to weigh more than seven pounds.) The Goliath Frog 15 pts
15. What animal can drink up to 160 liters of water per day? Elephant 5 pts

I am playing cards with Fishy, Moose, Brad and Bad Employee until the teams arrive (did I tell you thats it and go race to the pitstop)? Hey, did you know that each king in a deck of playing cards represents a great king from history?

16. Tell me ONE of the suits as well as the name of the King it represents. Random question with varying points. Hearts - Charlemagne 20 pts / Diamonds - Julius Caesar 15 pts / Clubs - Alexander the Great 10 pts / Spades - Kind David 5 pts

Of Special Note:
- #7 was too difficult - no one got correct
- #11 please note the tangerine shirt was NOT on sale (isn't that always the way, the one you want isn't included)
- #12 was NOT an Aardvark, or the blue-tongued skink (rolmao)

Cheers!
Islandgirl

Results of Leg 8

2006-04-11T12:53:00.000-07:00

Hi gang, well done on the race, it was a difficult one and you all did well, except um well poor Goofball who didn't show up for the race at all. Here are the results:

#1 CATastrophe - arriving #6 - 25 pts + 20 pts for postcard choice = 315 pts - final total is: 2100

#2 FamilyApe - arriving #1 - 50 pts + 5 pts for postcard choice = 380 pts - final total is 2038

#3 Maestro - arriving #4 - 35 pts + 20 for postcard choice + 200 pts for having the fastest flight at 20 hrs, 16 minutes (evening flight) + 200 pts = 455 - final total 1943

#4 ShnMom/Dodge - arriving #5 - 30 pts + 5 for postcard choice = 300 - final total is 1833

#5 Sara/Lost - arriving #3 - 40 pts + 0 for not proper postcard = 235 - final total 1788
tied with
#5 Spygirl/Katfox - arriving #2 - 45 pt + 5 for postcard choice = 105 - final total 1788

Goofball - final 1585 - did not race - sadly has been eliminated

Answers:
Amazing Race questions from last week: 5 pts each
1. Which team asked for directions and took the Italian’s map? Monica / Joseph
2. Which team member can’t count his money properly? Lake
3. In the fish detour explanation, what color shirt was Phil wearing? Red
4. Which team was the fourth to count heads on the gates? Fran and Barry
5. 1st place reward cruise ship is the first to offer what sport on board? Surfing
6. What was I eating? What is it exactly and what is done to it just prior to serving? Pasticiotti / Italian pastry with cream filling of chocolate or vanilla dusted with powdered sugar 15 pts
7. #1 picture: Tell me what is occuring here. Women give alm during morning procession of Buddhist monks at Luang Prabang, Laos 100 pts
8. #2 picture: Where was this picture taken and in what country? Franklin Roosevelt subway station. Paris, France 10 pts
9. #3 picture: What is this and where is located? Holocaust Memorial, San Francisco 30 pts
10. #4 picture: Where this picture was taken, one of the restaurants here serve a drink called, “Run Forest Run”. What are the ingredients in it? Oranges, strawberries, bananas, rasp frozen yogurt (Santa Monica Pier, California ) 30 pts
11. #5 picture: Where is this picture taken and what is the name of the island in the middle? Crator Lake, Oregon / Wizard Island 100 pts
12. Go to the airline booking facility of your choice and “book” ie. find THE FASTEST flight to Tenerife from the location of our last picture. 200 pts
13. Postcard of your choice. Clown, Fish, Sunset, Square 5 pts / Beach, Long Beach, Bridge, Rock Wall 20 pts
14. Find the Hotel Gran Tacande –what famous beach? Playa de Duque 10 pts
15. How many “stars” rating does this hotel have? Five 10 pts
16. What does the word TACANDE mean? Volcanic Stone 20 pts
17. Name the spa. Vitanova 20 pts
18. Camarero! Para beber, quiero el vino blanco. What did I just say in Spanish? Waiter! To drink, I would like some white wine 10 pts

Of special note:

10. Don't know where some of you got Cranberry Juice ??
11. To those who gave Crater Lake, Oregon but NOT Wizard Island (as requested) you received half possible points of 50 (count yourself lucky).
12. Flights received were as follows:
Maestro - Total duration: 20hr 16min
Ape - Total duration: 26hr 35 min
Spy/Kat - Total duration: 28 hrs and 50 mins (added 3 hrs to drive to Vancouver)
Shnmom - Total duration: 34 hrs

The Simple Things in Life

2006-04-08T11:07:00.000-07:00

We all take ourselves too seriously. It's true, and I dare you to honestly think about this. I'm not saying we take everything seriously, just the most important, like ourselves for instance. While most of us are quick to laugh at others, sometimes even at their expense or their actions, can you remember the last time you laughed at yourself? Or spoke aloud without worrying about the consequences your words would evoke?

We live in a world that is regimented, but not by our bosses, the government, or family members as we would like to think, but by ourselves, and while we often complain we have no freedom to do or say what we want, that's just not true. We lie to ourselves constantly and some of us don't even realize it. What is really scary is when we begin to believe those lies because, really, those lies were made up for others, not us. How selfish we've become.

The truth is, most of us don't want to "rock the boat" by being individuals. It's much easier - and safer, we believe - to be one of the crowd. This reminds me of a film I took my kids to see at the theatre a couple of years ago where a timid dinosaur cries, "I don't like confrontations!" Not many of us do, they take up too much time and energy but what do we have without? That's the question, and no, I'm not going to give you the answer because for each one of us it will be different. Work with me, people.

I'm always trying to better myself (or so I believe) and I admire those who are able to live in the moment and are able to simply be the person they are. A wonderful example of this happened the other day when I was at a popular coffee house. I don't want to give out the name, but let me just say that it rhymes slightly with "no bucks" which is what is in my wallet after I frequent the establishment.

The staff at these places are professionals indeed - did you know they have to attend coffee school before they work the "bar"? Well, they do and that is why when I come in and order a grande, low-fat, one shot, extra hot, easy whip, my order is perfectly understood - not always by me, mind you, but they seem to have no problem. Anyway, as I stood in line rehearsing my request, deciding whether to go low-fat or soy, i.e., lose some calories or fight cancer (always a big decision) a fellow behind me spoke. Not necessarily to me or the server, but just voicing his thoughts aloud.

"I've never been to Star----- before." (Please don't find offense at the secretive nature I've assumed for this article, I don't wish to mention the name of the popular coffee house in case it incriminates me).

As I turned, I noted the man's weather-beaten face which revealed pure pleasure, his grin stretching farther than seemed possible. He wore an obviously well loved heavy woolen sweater with matching hat, and I couldn't help but notice the large gap between his two front teeth which were in need of dental advice. I quickly estimated the man with the infectious grin to be about 50 although it was hard to say because of his lack of self. He just was. I love that!

I smiled back, and being the quick wit that I am, even without caffeine in my system, I said, "You've never been to Star----- before?"

"No," he said, continuing to smile, clearly just happy to be here at this place at this time, unlike the others of us in line who were mindlessly performing our usual morning routine of following the person in front of us. Alright, I'll speak for myself, then.

"No, that's not true," he continued, "I've been to Star----- before, they have one in Thailand."

Thailand? My mind busily conjured, as it has been known to do. A world traveler … a gypsy at heart, someone who follows his dreams, has no ties to the material world, no responsibilities, only the simple things in life mattering, which had me wondering whether coffee could be considered one of the simple pleasures in life for it seemed to be getting more complicated daily; perhaps he was in the wrong place, perhaps I was, excuse me as I digress. Back to the tale.

"They only have one there," he said, "and I promised my friend I would bring him back some coffee."

"They only have one Star----- in all of Thailand?" I asked. This surprised me, not that I'm an expert on the far and distant land where everything cheap in the world is produced.

"Only one," he confirmed, probably wondering at this point whether I was slightly deaf or just simply dumb. He kept smiling, though, his eyes twinkling, seeming to hold secret information and/or fascinating stories within their depths that could only be imagined. "I went a long way, but it was worth it."

Having reached the front of the line, I placed my order. As I relinquished my soon to be ex-husband's hard earned money (the price of his having a girlfriend and a wife at the same time, but that's another story) I went to the other side of the bar and waited for my drink.

Instead of mindlessly drifting as I usually do, I began to wonder what exactly the man had meant. Had he referred to the coffee itself or something much deeper than my psyche would allow this early in the morning? It would take further contemplation but I was interrupted by my drink being announced, making it even more special.

I did come away with something from this encounter besides this article, however. That is that we should all draw a little on this man's enthusiasm of the things in life that we take for granted. Simple pleasures and living consciously, that's my new goal (just add it to the list). I know my coffee that day tasted better than usual and as I passed by on my way out the door I glanced back, curious to see the fellow's order.

You know, I think next time I might order tea as well. How simple. I wonder how one orders it ...

Amazing Chatrace - Leg 8

2006-04-06T13:49:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the continuation of the race, glad you found your way here! Continuing onwards ... please note the pictures in the blog. There are 5 in total and are numbered 1-5 duh (lol). Based on these pictures, please answer the following (and please note what is asked). Yes I do know these are not easy but large points are attached so it may be wise to get to the answer rather than attempt a quick return to the matt.

6. Picture clue #1: Tell me what is occuring here.

7. Picture clue #2: Where was this picture taken and in what country?

8. Picture clue #3: What is this and where is it located?

9. Picture clue #4: Where this picture was taken, one of the restaurants here serve a drink called, “Run Forest Run”. What are the ingredients in it?

10. Picture clue #5: Where is this picture taken and what is the name of the island in the middle?

Whew, that was fun! Or was it lol ... perhaps difficult but a great test of your knowledge and/or researching ability. Ok, onwards ... our destination? The Canary Islands!!!!!

12. Go to the airline booking facility of your choice and “book” ie. find THE FASTEST flight to Tenerife from the location of our last picture. If you do not know the location of the last picture, here is a hint: its next door to the State where I now live. Cut and paste the link information of your flight, as your answer to number 12 – obviously you want to be the fastest team to arrive. To clarify, you are looking for the fastest flight that would get you from one destination to another right now.

Go to: www.abouttenerife.com and,

13. Check out Itineraries and send me a postcard of your choice from that area. All will have random points pre-assigned.

Time to find our luxury hotel. We are staying at the Hotel Gran Tacande, and it is the pitstop for this leg of the race.

14. Find the Hotel Gran Tacande – located at what famous beach?
15. How many “stars” rating does this hotel have?
16. What does the word TACANDE mean?

Check in and meet me at the pitstop which is located in the spa, where I am having a sublime relaxation and rejuvenating experience among thermal sea water and essences. Phil never had it this good!

17. Name the spa.
18. Camarero! Para beber, quiero el vino blanco. What did I just say in Spanish?

Last team to arrive WILL BE ELIMINATED but you can join me in the spa so not all is lost. Email me back your answers ASAP.

Cheers!
Islandgirl

Amazing Chatrace - Leg 7

2006-04-04T13:24:00.000-07:00

Chatrace 2006 – Leg 7

Ok we are off and running again ... Happy April everyone!!!

Some questions from the race: 5 pts each
1. Who said the phrase, “we gotta be smooth like butta.” Team Nerd
2. Which team constantly says, “dangit” ? Lake/Michelle
3. What are the two words printed on Team Hippy’s T.Shirts? Bowling and Moms
4. What color were the t shirts? Blue (bowling / Green (Moms)
5. What is the name of the Temple which was the last pitstop? Tempio di Segesta
~ ~ ~
Remember where you were, either Hawaii or Mexico and follow applicable clues.
__________________________________________________________
Route #A – Hawaii - follow these next clues: 10 pts each
6a. On The Amazing Race 2, racers left Maui and went to what destination? San Francisco
7a. According to that AR website, what is the population of the above named city? 750,000
8a Whats a trip to this above noted destination, without visiting “The Rock” in the bay.

To what am I referring? Alcatraz Island

Go to www. http://www.alcatrazhistory.com/mainpg.htm 10 pts for both
9a. What are the dimensions of a typical cell? 5 x 9
10a Name one famous inmate. Al Capone, Robert Straud, George Kelly, Henry Young

Get to the dock, and climb aboard: http://www.boatingsf.com/photopage.php?photo=270&&infocategory=sailboats
and tell me:
11a What building seen here lies directly behind the dock? Building 64 15 pts

Head to Pier 39 ... oh forget it, been there done that. Instead did you know that Jelly Bellies have a factory here! Whoo hoo go to: http://gocalifornia.about.com/gi/dynamic/offsite.htm?zi=1/XJ&sdn=gocalifornia&zu=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jellybelly.com%2F

For the guys (and sports oriented in our group) go to the bean College brackets and tell me:
12a ----- 5 pt
13a How much will 48 bags of orange sport beans cost? $22.50 for 24 x 2 = $45.00 5 pt
14a Tell me which beans are required for a flavor sensation of Tiramisu? 2 Cappucino, 1 A&W Cream Soda, 1 Chocolate Pudding 5 pt

Van Ness Avenue, the widest street in the City, is home to San Francisco’s city government. The gold-domed City Hall (extensively renovated in 1995-1999) was modeled after St. Peter’s Basilica. Wonder where that is ..... catch a plane and fly to the Vatican City, Rome to meet up with other chat racers. In other words, scroll past the Mexico portion until you get to the heading “ROME” for questions 15-20.
______________________________________________________
Route #B – Mexico - follow these next clues:
6b. On The Amazing Race 3, racers left Cancun and went to what country? Scotland 1 pt
7b. Which “ancient structure” did the racers go to? Dunnottar Castle 10 pts
8b Answer to 7b is the ancient seat of what family? Keith 20 pts

Go to: http://www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/index/properties.htm
9b Name the castle before you on this webpage. Edinburgh Castle 15 pts
10b Donald Trump plans on building a golf course in this country. According to the map on this page, tell me which color indicates the area he is considering. Green (North and Grampian)
5 pts
Go to: http://www.castleofspirits.com/nessie.html 5 pts / 10 pts
11b Nessie was even given what scientific name by Sir Peter Scott? "Nessiteras rhombopteryx"
12b It is considered lucky in Scotland if your first visitor on New Year's Day is whom and with what? A tall, dark man bearing a gift of shortbread, a black bun - or a lump of coal.

Go to: http://www.mackenzieltd.com/mackenzie/Item_Walkers-of-Albelour-Shortbreads_WTR21G.html&websource=google&keyword=scottish_shortbread
13b Purchase European Drinking Chocolate and the Walkers Shortbread Truck Tin. What will be the final cost of these items? $57.85 3 pts
14b What the 3 main ingredients in home made shortbread? Butter, Sugar, Flour (vanilla salt) 1 pt

Catch a plane and fly to Rome to meet up with other chat racers. In other words, scroll until you get to the heading “ROME” for questions 15-20.
________________________________________________________

WELCOME TO ROME – go to: http://www.stpetersbasilica.org/index.htm

15. On Wednesday, May 24, how would I get an audience with the Pope? General Audience held in St Peter's Square. 35 pts
16 For the above, are tickets required? Yes 10 pts
17 Enter the “Monument to Pius XI”. Which number is this given on the floorplan? 77 10 pts
18 Referencing 17 above, This prewar pope was the author of how many encyclicals? 30 5 pt
19 What is placed in the center of the St. Peter’s Square? A large pink granite obelisk 1 pt
20. Where does this come from? Heliopolis, Egypt 4 pts

Thats it – AMEN (lol). Leave St. Peter’s with quiet dignity and respect, get to the main road, then RUN like um heck to the pitstop which is a local Caffe where I am enjoying a Pasticiotti and Rum Coffee (1 glass of coffee, 2 little glasses of rum, 50 gr. of sugar, vanilla, a lemon rind and some minced ice, shaken). Yummy – Starbucks be dammed! Hope the Pope didn’t hear that ...

Arrivederci !!!
Islandgirl

Welcome to my World

2006-03-31T19:08:00.000-08:00

Hello to the Amazing Race Chatters and/or whoever else has managed to stumble in haphazardly (must remember anyone can find this blog ... control ... control).

This will be our new forum for the Chatrace which are done with online friends to celebrate our love for the Amazing Race (reality tv). You may also find some of my ramblings (aka my writing) well, we will see.

Ok thats it for the first "blog" as thrilling as it was, I shall be back! Look for Leg 7 ...

Cheers! Islandgirl ;)