Good Mortereve everyone! And how are all of the Square Onions on this beautiful, cool, autumn morning?

*waves to FK* I don't remember if I congratulated you on your achievements at the fair or not. If I didn't, conga-rats! If I did you can just ignore that.

I was about to comment on the use of "deadlines written in blood", then saw you were reading Antigone and it all made sudden sense.

I wondered if anyone would pick up on that. It makes even more sense when you know that the next play I had to read for that class was Hamlet. Lots of blood and stuff in that play.

*waves to stardf and Sonny*

Oooh, Elanor! A wedding! *loves weddings* Glad to hear that your song went well.

(Everyone knew Ara and I are sisters, right?)

Um, yes? I think I did, but then I forgot.

*waves wildly to Bella (Not From Twilight!)*

I still firmly believe that teachers get together, cackling maliciously, as they schedule their tests for the same day

....you know, there's this one teacher I have....hmm...I certainly wouldn't put it past him. He's a great teacher, but I can totally see him cackling maliciously as he schedules tests. I guess it's a good thing I actually like that class.

*waves to Cep and George*

Aravanna wrote:I do think someone should ask my sister about the time I crashed my brother-in-laws proposal though.

Really? Someone do tell!

Ditto!

*waves wildly to Ruby, pogginfan, and Queen Susan* Goodness! Everybody's coming back! Well, almost everybody. *looks around for Benjamin and Ali and NN95*

Sorry about your dog, QS.

Okay, catchup complete! *picks some chocolates on her way out*

Helllooooooo!!!
Finally, I can get rid of my guilt - here I am! My brother came home yesterday (I only saw him for a few minutes, and I haven't seen him yet today. ), but he's only here for a few days. Lovely to see him though. I'm getting ridiculously excited about NaNo - so many people I know (on NWeb, and off) are doing it, I know this is going to be an amazing year. I'm really super excited for my story, though I'm worried about how I'll finish it - last year I didn't have an ending till 3/4 through the story, and I found that kind of making it up as go fairly easy. Very different this year, I have an ending, I know the plot, I have named characters. If I finish it, it should be better written, and definitely a better plot, and I WILL finish it, but it'll be hard. I'm having nightmares about being finished with the story 20,000 words through. Anyway. I'm lavendersblue on the NaNo website, if you're on, feel free to add me.
I'm sorry about your surgery, Miss R - but I'm glad it's feeling better now.

It sounds like the wedding was fun, Elanor, though adventurous! I'm glad your song went well. I know what you mean about the troubles of speed during a solo. I often speed up or slow down too much during a violin piece, merely because all thought leaves my head as soon as I step on stage.

It wasn't *that* adventurous, just it was different from anything I've ever experienced, and that was a little scary. I understand about the speed, I do that when I'm playing piano, but I don't have trouble with that when I'm singing. I just worry about my accompanist.
Done with Great Expectations yet? And when you have time, tell me your thoughts!!

I laughed out loud about the wedding party just looking at each other because they forgot the candles. (That seems like an important detail to forget? On the other hand, I suppose weddings are crazy enough with preparations that it’s amazing it doesn’t happen more often.)

I knew something would go wrong, or something would be forgotten - I'm somewhat relieved that that was all. I know it's fairly big, but nobody knew. Ah well.

I do think someone should ask my sister about the time I crashed my brother-in-laws proposal though.

I think I REALLY want to hear this.
*waves to ceppault and George*

*hugs Ela* Aww, thank-you! I've missed you, too. Yes, it would be lovely if we could have another fun talk in chat! (although, I must admit I do not recall the night you mention. )

*hugs* lol, that's okay. It was the night you wrote the TOTALLY epic poem about my computer dying. Remember?
*posts it here for everyone's edification*
"Ela's computure, faithful to be slow,
We all grieve that you had to go.
Why songs about weekdays made you break?
We will always be sad as we hear the song that your working days it did
take,
But we'll always remember you,
And with intelligence like yours, there are few."
LOVE IT!!

How have you been doing lately? I hope well! Have you been doing some fun photographic endeavours?

I've been doing pretty well - somewhat inbetween. Not amazing, but not bad, really. Normal. Yes, I've been a bit of picture taking recently, though not as much as I could wish. NEVER ENOUGH! Have you?
*hugs Ruby* We've missed you girl!
*waves to poggy*
*waves to Queen Susan* I never know what to call you. I almost call you Susan, or QS, or something like that - but I always end up at Queen Susan.

Ara pulled up a few Rhett and Link videos so I've watched them over her shoulder.

haha, awesome. I've mostly just watched the Chia Lincoln ones, which I absolutely LOVE!!!!! They're totally worth it, they make me laugh so loud.
*waves to DotK* Thank you! How are you doing?
That was a nice fat catchup.

Hello, SquareOnions! It's great to see familiar faces here, along with visits from those who've been absent a while.

I've been absent myself recently, but I've been busy. Last week I visited friends near Milwaukee, including attending Wisconsin's largest Civil War re-enactment and a Brewers game at Miller Park (they lost that game, but the place was rocking with fans cheering on their playoff-bound team).

The fall colors are in full swing here now, and I've been taking day trips to nearby state parks for viewing, ending the day with a campfire and stargazing session. This is my favorite time of year.

It's almost like summer right now, with highs pushing 90F. But it means clear blue skies for leaf-peeping and stargazing.

Oh my goodness, it has been so beyond gorgeous here. We very, very seldom get a stretch of nice weather like this in Kansas.

Our weather is also known for frequent changes, but this time of year can be the exception to that rule. We can get a week or so of simply awesome weather, like we're in now (though it is a little too hot for my taste. )

I love driving...

Ditto! Especially now that I have a (hopefully) reliable car again. Driving on these fall color tours is part of the adventure.

And with falling leaves come thoughts of the upcoming NaNo. I have a few thoughts on this year's story but nothing significant plot-wise. Hmmm...

I'm having nightmares about being finished with the story 20,000 words through....

That's sort of what happened to me back in 2009 (my first serious attempt). I kind of ran out of plot and words, and didn't get to 50k in November. But I was still pleased with the story, and later on that winter I was able to flesh it out to about 70k. It wasn't a NaNo winner, but it did lay the foundation for my 2010 NaNo sequel, which was also a lot of fun to write and passed 50k with time to spare in the month. [/random]

'Tis time for lunch and then plotting out today's destination. So for now, good mortereve to all, and to all a good night!

Good mortereve, all! The weather has been absolutely gorgeous today - crisp, cool, fresh, and invigorating. It's that autumn-y feeling that brings to mind hot cider and cozy blankets and piles of leaves. The two maples in our front yard have that slight gold-ish tint to them that comes just before scarlet, and the end of our road is already splashed with autumn colors. *settles comfortably onto a bench with a hot mug and a book, taking great care not to spill any of its contents on her book* To Kill a Mockingbird. One of my favorites.

It's good to see several old faces in here!

Anyway, my week so far. I've been keeping busy with school - I have four tests tomorrow. (See what I mean, Dot? ) NarniaWeb serves as a lovely break in-between studying. I'm looking forward to the weekend, though! I have Monday off of school, which means I'll have several days to rewind and recharge, repair my wacky sleep schedule, and spend some quality time with friends.

Today I had one of those awkward moments that should go down in the books. I was walking into my English classroom (which, conveniently, has the door situated at the front of the room), tripped on a cord, pulled out the cord while doing so, heard something crash behind me, splatted forward face-first, and dropped all of my books -- only to find one of the desks on the floor behind me. Apparently me tripping on the cord had pulled it over somehow. And then there was the fact that I had done all of this in front of a full classroom. I wanted to drop through the floor.

It has been a busy week and between my job and the forum exploding I haven't made it in here to post. (If you didn't hear about the forum/chatroom bugs already, see my post in the Growing Pains thread in the SO.)

Poor NarniaWeb. It was definitely going wonky when I tried to take care of my welcomes on Friday.

Ooh, fun about getting a new laptop! I'm hoping to get one soon - I really need it for school. (I haven't been able to write easily for the past two years after a hand injury).

Thank-you, Bella dear! Come to think of it, the reason why my weeks have seemed so crazy is probably merely because I'm not used to the chaos yet. Once I remember what it feels like to be busy and study and get little sleep, I should be fine.

No worries about the belated reply. I still haven't sent your package out, even though it's addressed and ready to go. *Hopefully* I'll get it out over the weekend.

Ruby!
Aw, your sister is moving? My sister moved out of the house to a nearby apartment last year, and then went completely across the country this year. It's been....strange. And hard. It's tough to see siblings go.
Whoo-hoo about the dance competition, and a big conga-rats to you on achieving those excellent awards!
It's good to see a post of yours again.

It's finally below 80 degrees here!!! I'm SO happy. I just want to spend all day outside today. x)

Eighty degrees? O.o It's been in the forties and fifties over here mostly (with the exception of today, which was in the mid-sixties and very nice). *sends some cool weather your way*

-Went to a "Family Camp" with some friends, which was *so* much fun.
-The dog we've had practically my whole life died.
-And I entered a short story in a "Providential History Festival" and won first place. (50 bucks!) 😉 So that was neat, I guess. 😉

I went to a family camp when I was six or seven years old. The only bad thing about it was having to come home!
I'm so very sorry to hear about your dog. Pets are so hard to lose, especially when they've been a part of the family for so long.
Conga-rats on winning first place! What was the story about? EDIT: I see FK already asked this.

My foot is almost completely well now, FK, thanks for asking! I never knew how HARD it is to limp around.

I want to hear the story of when you accidentally crashed your brother-in-law's proposal!

Okay, I really want to hear this as well. *peers around for Ara*

I am done with Great Expectations actually, Elanor. I finished ahead of everyone else in the class. Overall, I liked it. It's not a book I would read again anytime in the near future, but it was enjoyable. Volume III was my favorite bit - everything started coming together, and everyone ended up being linked to each other in ways I'd never have foreseen. What are your thoughts on the book?

Stargazer, just thought I'd say how much I love your signature. It's absolutely beautiful, and so perfect for this time of year.

And on that happy note, it's time for me to toddle off back to my textbooks. Lots of studying to do before tomorrow.
Hope you all have a spectacular weekend!

*nabs a handful of truffles from the chocolate tree on her way out*

Congratulations! What was your story about?

Gladys Aylward; a missionary to China. Thanks!
^^ Miss Rosa, there's your answer too!

Sorry about your dog, QS.

Thanks Dot!

*waves back to Elanor* How happy about seeing your brother again! And I'm immensely excited for NaNo as well.

... and now I'd better go clean up supper and the kitchen and the basement.

Been way too long, but thankfully the Square doesn't zoom ahead quite as quickly as it used to.

Hey ho, all ye SquareOnions! Now, don't take a fit: with a post this long, I'm not gonna post in my usual maroon, so bear with me. It really is Jo here.

Going back to page 86 ...

While in Chicago, was sad to find out I missed meeting johobbit by not much more than 5 minutes. Miss Jo, you must be much more of a morning person than I am. So sorry...thoroughly hoping there will soon be a next time!

Only 5 minutes? Awwww! I somehow gathered it would be longer, otherwise we would have waited. So sorry to have missed you, especially considering we live at nearly the opposite ends of the continent. Yes, hopefully someday.

At the top of page 87, Louise the First mentioned chocolate and coffee fairly close together, which reminds me how much I adore the taste of mocha. *melts with happiness* (and I don't even care for coffee )

*sends a biiiiiiiig bear hug to Vern!*

Not a ... dragon hug? Ah, I see Vern gave one right back to you. Did he totally envelop you with his, erm, largeness? *coughBurton'sAlice-in-Wonderland,anyonecough*

*waves as well to dear Mountie, Aravanna, Dot, RubyG, PrinceCor (the new moddie!)*

So, did anyone actually PM Aidan/NN95/Nick?

Benjamin, wonderful to see you again! How exciting about your trip to Peru next year with Y-WAM.

Twigsy! I do hope you get a goodly number of sub days this year. How nice you could leave behind your WalMart job and focus on teaching instead.

Canoeing, Elanor? It's lovely, isn't it? I so much prefer that peaceful boating to that of a noisy motorboat, blech. Although, I do enjoy water-skiing, and one can't very well do this behind a canoe, lol.

I suppose I should make an appointment with my pillow soon.

Yours requires appointments, does it? Mine is more like a walk-in kind of situation. As long as no one else is using it at the time, it's quite flexible.

wild rose, glad you had such a grand time at the festival (aside from the beet faces ). Good to see you in the Square!

Beautiful dittos, Louise!

fantasia! Loverly to see you in the Square. As for feetwear, I go barefoot as much as I can (although not to the extent that BERNINBUSH enjoys); other than that it's sandals in the summer—actually until the snow flies—then socks with comfy flats or runners. But if I am at a movie or someone's house, off they come in a hurry. I find shoes too confining. Sandals are passable, but bare feet are ze best. (Hurrah for hobbits!)

Sure fun hearing about the fair, fk ... and your entries (congratulations!) ... AND THE FOOD! *drools* I've come to the point where I look forward to this time of year for many reasons, not the least of which is your fair.

I used to really enjoy roller coasters, but not anymore. It was more a teenage thing, I think.

chocolate-covered bacon served cold.

Whoa, that just sounds so odd. But I think I'd try it, given my love for both bacon and chocolate.

Elanor, your excitement for the wedding you're participating in is contagious.

My husband and I decided to donate it to the soup kitchen in the hopes that they will be able to feed a lot of people some tasty watermelon.

What a worthy end to your watermelon. Mmmm, that's one thing I love about summer is eating 'a ton' of that stuff.

stardf, it sounds like you're really enjoying your church involvement. Wonderful! Have you introduced the worship team to heavy metal Narnia music yet?

I'm doing my masters in computer science (studying part time), while working full time and being involved in various church activities, so I am very very very busy.

'Tis great to see you again, Sonny. Wow, your Master's! Excellent. And your own place. Enjoy!

*wonders if Jelly Beans are ready to be harvested this season....*

I thought Vern was in charge of those ... (Uh-oh! )

Yesterday I had surgery done on my toe (my nail grew into my toe and had to be cut out), which was an extremely painful experience.

Ouch! An in-grown toenail. Icky. Those things are so very painful. I've only had one in my life, but I hope to avoid them from here on in. I gather they just froze the local area? Are you prone to them, Louise?

And Fantasia is older! She’s very good at it too.

But yah, I play the French Horn. I love the instrument but I just can't do the music justice

As some of you know, the French Horn is probably my favourite instrument. Its tone, timbre, appearance ... glorious, it is. I've always said that if Lewis' writings about "joy" could be translated into an instrument, the French Horn would be it. ♥

cep, cEp, CEP!!! Wonderful to see you here! Have Gorse and George had dinner together yet? That would be quite the experience.

My family on my husband's side decided to invest in 30 grape plants and they arrived yesterday. So we're going to be planting a baby vineyard this weekend.

fantasia, that sounds wonderful! We live very near the Niagara peninsula, so have ready access to a myriad of vineyards and delicious grapes. I used to can dozens of my own grape juice jars, and wow, was it ever nice to have in mid-winter. Mmmm ...

Yesterday, during sunset, there were no brilliant colors but a film of pale, rich yellow which faded into a rainy-filled, cloudy gray on the sky. We were walking toward the sunset, and rain and wind were blowing vehemently, but the celestial yellow light was basking on us. It looked so unnatural and beautiful, almost like a movie.

I love how you write, Bella. So evocative!

pogginfan! Wow, it's excellent to see some old SquareOnions here. So, you skateboard, eh? Do you longboard as well?

Queen Susan, hello! I'm so sorry to hear about your beloved dog. Two years ago we had to put ours down (he was 15 & 1/2), and yep, it's just plain hard. They're such loyal, wonderful pets. What kind was yours?

Today I had one of those awkward moments that should go down in the books.

Oh my! I shouldn't have laughed whilst reading that, but I must admit to chuckling a bit. Was a friend with you when this happened? 'Cause it seems embarrassing things are somewhat less so when friendship is close by. But, in front of the class. Oh dear, Louise. I think you need a bouquet of flowers for a bit of cheer in that sink-through-the-floor remembrance.

Well, I can hardly post in the Square without mention of the weather. Autumn is truly here: some early mornings (whilst it is still dark) have been near freezing and are simply glorious for walking and jogging. When the skies are clear, the stars seem to twinkle all the more. It's amazing to see our old friend, Orion, again. Love that constellation ... along with the Pleiades, the cutest constellation, imho.

Some of the trees are about half-way turned their reds, oranges, and yellows. Others have not yet begun. Ooh, the crispness of the air this time of year, intermingled with the scent of bonfires and apples (and often skunk, lol) is beyond wonderful.

This weekend, however, Canadian Thanksgiving, has become unusually warm. Kind of unpleasant, actually. Many people enjoy this, but it's too hot for me—with the heat index, up in the mid-80s, blech. At least the nights are cooling down, but not quite as far as I'd like.

Btw, Vern, I'll try and leave something for you next time I'm in, which hopefully will not be as long as the last.

And now, a special picture just for Thanksgiving north-of-the-border. Have you ever encountered this trouble?

*Wanders in uncertainly*

...Hi? I haven't been on Narniaweb since, March? It was right after the earthquake hit Japan, so I think that's it. Wow, I'm wondering if anyone here remembers me, although I see some familiar faces(names?) so that's good. I don't know what made me suddenly enter the forums again, I think I just got sick of loading the front page and there not being any news there, and so decided to actually delve in again. And then once I saw the town square, I started missing it more. So here I am.

I have had a pretty hectic half year, to be fair. I've successfully completed the move from Japan to Northern Ireland, and am trying to settle into life here. That part's not going so well, but hey, I'm still alive. Hoping the situation continues to improve, and I start missing Japan.. less.

*scans the last page rapidly and sees this*

As some of you know, the French Horn is probably my favourite instrument. Its tone, timbre, appearance ... glorious, it is. I've always said that if Lewis' writings about "joy" could be translated into an instrument, the French Horn would be it. ♥

Yay, french horn love! I've just started taking horn lessons again at my new school, although it's a bit frustrating to have a four year gap of no formal teaching, yet be expected to have advanced as much as someone who has. But I'm enjoying it.. the sound it produces can't rival any other instrument, in my opinion, although I might be just a tad biased on that one.

Aaanyway. I'm going to start trying to visit again, more frequently that every half-year.

AC! 'Tis grrrrrreat to see you again! Of course we remember you, and I'm glad you felt free to pop on over to the good ol' Square, where 'Onions' are always welcome.

What a move you've had—from Japan to Ireland. Are you working there, or attending school, if I may ask? *reads on* Ah, I see you mentioned "school". I hope the settling in soon smooths out for you. It does take time. That must be quite the change of cultures.

But I'm enjoying it.. the sound it produces can't rival any other instrument, in my opinion

I think a few of us here would totally agree with you on the French horn's glorious sound. That's great you've picked up lessons again. Do you play in an orchestra at all?

Aaanyway. I'm going to start trying to visit again, more frequently that every half-year.

Hurrah! Remember to nab some chocolate from the tree on your way by. There should be some left if Lady A hasn't helped herself first.

We had a lovely Thanksgiving Sunday today, albeit far too warm for this time of year. I think I'll be full long into tomorrow after all the abundant food array. *unhitches her belt buckle one more notch*

Hello everyone!! How lovely to see the Square on this lovely warm fall day.
It's finally gotten warm again, and I've been deeply enjoying being able to wear shorts again - I wasn't quite ready for constant under 50 degree's weather. The colors have been at their very peak this week and it's been ridiculously gorgeous. The kind of gorgeous that makes me gasp and just sit with my mouth open and eyes wide, and a huge corny smile on my face. Oh, and guess what another thing is that does that to me? A certain present that Johobbit gave to Dennie. By far the most gorgeous piece of jewelry I've ever seen.
You were in Milwaukee, star? We were so close!!!!! How cool that you got to see a Brewers game - I've gone to two this year, and I loved both of them. Are you fan? Quite some game last night!!

That's sort of what happened to me back in 2009 (my first serious attempt). I kind of ran out of plot and words, and didn't get to 50k in November. But I was still pleased with the story, and later on that winter I was able to flesh it out to about 70k. It wasn't a NaNo winner, but it did lay the foundation for my 2010 NaNo sequel, which was also a lot of fun to write and passed 50k with time to spare in the month. [/random]

Yes, I have one friend who had finished his plot and the ending, 15,000 words in. I'm not going to let that happen, but I'm afraid everything will start happening a little quicker that I wanted. Most of my book is supposed to just be random things, in a girls life, with just the undercurrent of the plot which comes in full at the end.

Today I had one of those awkward moments that should go down in the books.

Oh dear. I hate it when things like that happens. And they come into your mind late at night when you're trying to go to sleep, and you cringe.

I am done with Great Expectations actually, Elanor. I finished ahead of everyone else in the class. Overall, I liked it. It's not a book I would read again anytime in the near future, but it was enjoyable. Volume III was my favorite bit - everything started coming together, and everyone ended up being linked to each other in ways I'd never have foreseen. What are your thoughts on the book?

Interesting - I'm glad you liked it, and I understand you're feelings. I also *liked* it, but it's definitely not a favorite of mine by Dickens. I just didn't love it - it didn't move me that much, though I did like some of the characters a lot.

How happy about seeing your brother again! And I'm immensely excited for NaNo as well.

Happy. That's exactly the word. It was a little bit weird, actually - unsettling, because it's like we're all stuck between feeling like he still lives here, and that he's not longer a part of our little family. I guess it's like that when siblings move out. But I love him so much, and it was nice.
*grins at Johobbit's turkey picture*

Canoeing, Elanor? It's lovely, isn't it? I so much prefer that peaceful boating to that of a noisy motorboat, blech.

It's wonderful! But it isn't as peaceful as it would seem when you're just thinking about it. Depending where you are, you can very rarely actually sit back and look around - we were usually very busy steering and trying to find flowers.

Elanor, your excitement for the wedding you're participating in is contagious.

That makes me happy. Oh, and please call me Ellie, Ela, Nora, or whatever other nickname you can make out of that.
*waves to AC* I remember you!! Glad to have you back!

Hello again, denizens of the Square!

Like jo, we're experiencing serious Indian Summer here, with 8 consecutive days over 80F. That just doesn't happen here in October; often we've seen snowflakes by now.

A little catch-up:

Stargazer, just thought I'd say how much I love your signature. It's absolutely beautiful, and so perfect for this time of year.

Thanks! (It's a picture I took several years ago of the Kettle River in north-central Minnesota's Banning State Park). The fall colors this year have been spectacular, though a couple windy days over the weekend ended much of that.

When the skies are clear, the stars seem to twinkle all the more. It's amazing to see our old friend, Orion, again.

I've been out at night a lot the past week, over the campfire. The big bright Hunter's Moon wiped out most of those evening stars. But it sure is nice to see Orion again, in the mornings. Another sign of colder weather to come...

This weekend, however, Canadian Thanksgiving, has become unusually warm. Kind of unpleasant, actually. Many people enjoy this, but it's too hot for me—with the heat index, up in the mid-80s, blech.

Same here! I usually like to hike around the parks before the evening campfires, to look at the colors, but with highs pushing 90F I just didn't have it in me.

Glad you had an awesome Thanksgiving! I like having it in November, but as a harvest holiday, observing it in October makes a lot more sense to me.

You were in Milwaukee, star? We were so close!!!!! How cool that you got to see a Brewers game - I've gone to two this year, and I loved both of them. Are you fan? Quite some game last night!!

Yup, had a great time visiting friends in your neck of the woods. I like watching ball games in other cities; one fond memory of our camping trip to Rocky Mountain National Park was seeing the Rockies baseball team play in the old Mile High Stadium. Good times!

I've seen the Brewers both in the old County Stadium and Miller Park. I'll cheer for them unless they're playing the Twins. It'd be fun to see them take the Series. I did see last night's game. It would have been great to be there.

More later...

My brother came home yesterday (I only saw him for a few minutes, and I haven't seen him yet today. ), but he's only here for a few days. Lovely to see him though.

How fun. So, mind explaining to the people who are behind on the news where your brother is? I always assume college, but that's not necessarily correct.

I'm getting ridiculously excited about NaNo - so many people I know (on NWeb, and off) are doing it, I know this is going to be an amazing year.

Anyone besides me NOT participating? Best of luck to all of you who ARE participating.

haha, awesome. I've mostly just watched the Chia Lincoln ones, which I absolutely LOVE!!!!!

I will have to look those up.

It's almost like summer right now, with highs pushing 90F. But it means clear blue skies for leaf-peeping and stargazing.

Like jo, we're experiencing serious Indian Summer here, with 8 consecutive days over 80F. That just doesn't happen here in October; often we've seen snowflakes by now

We certainly didn't mean to send you our horrid heat now that it's finally cooled off here. We just had a whole weekend of the most perfect rain you can imagine. Truly a God-send because we NEEDED it. I think we ended up getting just under 2" and Ara came in this morning and said the ground was soggy. I think that's been a first since May....
It's been harder to decide who liked it more, me or Fiona. Fiona went out and just laid in the rain for hours this weekend. This was followed by her coming in and all of us trying to mob her with towels in hand. She thinks this is a terrific wrestling game.... makes for exciting times.

Today I had one of those awkward moments that should go down in the books.

But they make for such terrific stories later on.

Jo has reminded me just how out of the loop I am on things now.... primarily, NICKNAMES!! I know who Bella is now (I had to ask to make sure) and I've heard the story behind the Louise 1 & 2 references, but the others....
Vern???? Aidan? Nick? Not a clue
And while I'm trying to catch up, does anyone have a preferred nickname they want me to use?

Sure fun hearing about the fair, fk ... and your entries (congratulations!) ... AND THE FOOD! *drools* I've come to the point where I look forward to this time of year for many reasons, not the least of which is your fair.

Why thank you Jo.

What a worthy end to your watermelon.

The last watermelon is STILL sitting on my kitchen floor because... *ahem*... we're still using up the last of the watermelon we got for the mod moot.

fantasia, that sounds wonderful! We live very near the Niagara peninsula, so have ready access to a myriad of vineyards and delicious grapes. I used to can dozens of my own grape juice jars, and wow, was it ever nice to have in mid-winter. Mmmm ...

My sister-in-law is the one who takes charge of the grape processing. She makes THE BEST grape jelly... ever.

It's amazing to see our old friend, Orion, again.

With all the references to the Spare Onions, Onion is what I saw here and I was like "I know I'm no astronomy specialist, but what on earth is the Onion constellation." Ahem. I've got it now.

Many people enjoy this, but it's too hot for me—with the heat index, up in the mid-80s, blech.

Is it humid up there?

...Hi? I haven't been on Narniaweb since, March? It was right after the earthquake hit Japan, so I think that's it.

Welcome back!! And we were all very thankful you signed in afterwards to let us know that you were ok!

I have had a pretty hectic half year, to be fair. I've successfully completed the move from Japan to Northern Ireland, and am trying to settle into life here.

Wow! What's in Northern Ireland? And are you a native to Japan? Or from somewhere else originally?

Sooo.... what's this about a chocolate tree and jelly beans? Have a great day/week/life everybody!

*transports in* I would have walked, but I do have homework to do, so I figured I'd use a faster method of transportation.

Good Mortereve everyone! It's finally starting to feel like fall in my neck of the woods. It rained most of the weekend and was very nice and cool.

*waves to Elanor* Good luck with NaNo! I certainly don't have the knack for that sort of thing.

*waves to stargazer*

*notices that Miss Rosario is reading To Kill a Mockingbird and realizes just how long it's been since she read it* I really need to read it again. After I get more caught up on homework maybe. And after I finish Till We Have Faces for the seventh? time of course. *loves that book* You got Monday off? No fair! I'm assuming it was because of Columbus day?

*waves to QS and jo*

*glomptacklehugs Aslans Country* I've missed you! And I was so worried about you after the earthquake! Moving is hard, isn't it? I moved from one side of the US to the other when I was in highschool, but I can't even begin to imagine moving to a completely different country.

Fiona went out and just laid in the rain for hours this weekend. This was followed by her coming in and all of us trying to mob her with towels in hand. She thinks this is a terrific wrestling game.... makes for exciting times.

Silly dog. Or should I say bear-cub?

Vern???? Aidan? Nick? Not a clue

Aidan and Nick are nicknames for NarniaNut95. Right? Somebody please correct me if I got that wrong. As for Vern, well....I shall let him introduce himself. Wouldn't want to spoil the fun.

As for the chocolate tree...*points towards the tree growing near the fountain with delicious chocolates hanging from its branches* I have no idea who first thought to plant it, but virtual chocolate treats are one of the best inventions ever.

Alrighty, I think that's everything. I have a paper to write for strategic communication and another chapter to read for communication theory, so I shall bid you all adieu! *picks a chocolate and opens her communicator* Scotty, beam me up!

Your colours are at the peak already, Ela? Ours have a few weeks to go yet, I'm guessing. We're quite late this year because of the very odd (unusually HOT and DRY) summer weather. Enjoy the beauty!

A certain present that Johobbit gave to Dennie. By far the most gorgeous piece of jewelry I've ever seen.

I'm glad you like it. I commissioned a talented friend of mine to make it for DTR when I pulled her name for the Mod Secret Santa draw. Does Dennie every let you borrow any of the pieces?

All the best on NaNo to those who are participating! No, fantasia, you're not the only one not involved.

But it isn't as peaceful as it would seem when you're just thinking about it. Depending where you are, you can very rarely actually sit back and look around - we were usually very busy steering and trying to find flowers.

I know what you mean. But it's so quiet—that's what I like—and you can go in areas you never could with a motorboat.

often we've seen snowflakes by now.

'Tis true. Sometimes we've had snowflakes on our Canadian Thanksgiving (this weekend past), but this year was the opposite. Whereas it could have been around freezing, it was 50°F above that! (That's me melting. )

*agrees with Louise 1 (hey, that rhymes ) that 'gazer's signature is stunning*

fantasia, soooo glad you (and other areas *parts-of-Texas*) received some good rainfall!

Fiona went out and just laid in the rain for hours this weekend. This was followed by her coming in and all of us trying to mob her with towels in hand. She thinks this is a terrific wrestling game.... makes for exciting times.

I can just imagine! What a dog, oh, what a dog!

But they make for such terrific stories later on.

'Tis very true! It's like Samwise wisely saying something like boring stories don't make for good tales: it's the really adventurous ones—though dark at the time—that make the best ones. Or, could we say, the most embarrassing ones?

Vern???? Aidan? Nick? Not a clue

Vern is PrinceCor's dragon, a Square denizen as well. He lights the bonfire, and generally (tries to) help out.

Aidan/Nick is someone we miss, who hasn't been in the Square for months now, I think: NarniaNut95. That was his name, wasn't it, those of you more familiar with him? EDIT: Aha, I see Dot explained this ^.

Btw, how is your paper going, Dot? Is it a rather large one? And have I mentioned how I love your signature? One of my (many) favourite CSL quotes ...

The last watermelon is STILL sitting on my kitchen floor because... *ahem*... we're still using up the last of the watermelon we got for the mod moot.

Whoa, that's, like, a couple of months ago.

Mmmm, homemade grape jelly! ♥

With all the references to the Spare Onions, Onion is what I saw here and I was like "I know I'm no astronomy specialist, but what on earth is the Onion constellation." Ahem. I've got it now.

LOL, that great Onion Hunter in the stars! Oh my, so much laughter my stomach is hurting.

Yes, fk, it was quite humid this past weekend. Even now, though, as I'm typing, it's going away, woohooo, bringing with the front cooler temperatures (and more seasonal), plus rain, after 6 days of clear, warm skies.

Wow! What's in Northern Ireland? And are you a native to Japan? Or from somewhere else originally?

*dittos fantasia's questions for AC*

fk, I think it was the Royal Lady Amalthea of Archenland who planted the chocolate tree. Well, at least, she's the one who sneaks stuff from it uses it the most. *goes to poke Julie on FB to get on over to the Square* She is kind enough to let us help ourselves too, though ... thankfully!

As for jelly beans, what's the story behind those? I can't recall. Just know most of us like them. Yep, food is a favourite subject in the Square.

Your colours are at the peak already, Ela? Ours have a few weeks to go yet, I'm guessing.

Ours usually peak early in October, so we're right on schedule. But those high winds last weekend blew down so many leaves. There are still some colors out there, however, and today promises to be one more day of glorious autumn weather, so I'm planning one last fall color tour/campfire/stargazing session later today and this evening...complete with honeycrisp apples straight from the orchard.

(Incidentally, the Minnesota DNR has a frequently-updated map showing where colors are best and listing state park fall color reports. I use it to plan my trips).

We certainly didn't mean to send you our horrid heat now that it's finally cooled off here.

Actually, I haven't minded it too much - it's given us a 10-day stretch of nearly perfect weather (except for the wind) to enjoy the fall colors.

Sounds like Fiona had lots of fun with the rain! I can just imagine her running in and out with wet fur and feet.

...but what on earth is the Onion constellation." Ahem. I've got it now.

I can see how it could be read that way.

Yep, food is a favourite subject in the Square.

Now I'm hungry for lunch.

Hello again!!
Loving the new NaNo site - though it isn't completely finished. And trying desperately to name one other character (I'm thinking possibly Davy Austyn, but I don't think I like that. ), and name my book. Both very difficult.

Yup, had a great time visiting friends in your neck of the woods. I like watching ball games in other cities; one fond memory of our camping trip to Rocky Mountain National Park was seeing the Rockies baseball team play in the old Mile High Stadium. Good times!

I've seen the Brewers both in the old County Stadium and Miller Park. I'll cheer for them unless they're playing the Twins. It'd be fun to see them take the Series. I did see last night's game. It would have been great to be there.

That sounds like a lot of fun - I'm glad you had a good trip! I'd love to see other teams or the Brewers in other stadiums, but so far I've only seen 4 Brewers game, in their stadium - 3 against the Cardinals, and one against the cubs.
Oh dear - I hear they lost badly to the Cardinals . . so far everything is going as I said it would.

How fun. So, mind explaining to the people who are behind on the news where your brother is? I always assume college, but that's not necessarily correct.

haha, sorry about that! He graduated College last year, interned in the summer in D.C., and now has a job and just moved to Seattle.
Thanks for the words of encouragement concerning NaNo - and do check out the Chia Lincoln video's. They're hysterical.

Good luck with NaNo! I certainly don't have the knack for that sort of thing.

Thank you - and I think you should try it anyway sometime.

Your colours are at the peak already, Ela? Ours have a few weeks to go yet, I'm guessing. We're quite late this year because of the very odd (unusually HOT and DRY) summer weather. Enjoy the beauty!

Yup - they've already passed it, and are somewhat bare, actually. But I loved it while it was here.

I'm glad you like it. I commissioned a talented friend of mine to make it for DTR when I pulled her name for the Mod Secret Santa draw. Does Dennie every let you borrow any of the pieces?

It's so gorgeous. Unspeakable gorgeous. She certainly doesn't!! She's only worn it once, I think - whenever the occasion is fancy enough, her dress doesn't match. But every once in awhile she gets it out and we ooh and ahh over it.

But it's so quiet—that's what I like—and you can go in areas you never could with a motorboat.

That's definitely true, and a wonderful part of it!