Hi! Thanks for the re-welcome, everyone. 'Tis good to be remembered.

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?

Right now I'm going to rehearsals for the wind band that's playing in the school musical which is at the end of October. There are only about 8 people in it, but it still beats playing on my own, which can get tedious in a way that an instrument like the piano can't. I think there's actually a school orchestra as well, but the main music teacher's off right now, so it might not be running. I'm not sure, I don't know these things yet - still trying to find my way around a place that's probably over 4 times bigger than where I was in Japan.

*sees talk of NaNoWriMo and shuts eyes firmly*
Ahh, I realized it was October and thoughts of doing it all over again started to plague me - on the one hand I'm telling myself I'll be far too busy (although the workload here isn't even as heavy as Japan) and I'll just tire myself out/end up sick. But.. I am so tempted. I can't deny that last year was a ton of fun (amidst panic).

*waves back to Ellie* Thanks. I remember you kept talking about getting your NaNo draft from last year somewhere... dare I ask? FYI, mine is sitting pretty much where I left in November , though I think I did go through and make notes on it all.

Wow! What's in Northern Ireland?

This just makes me want to go "nothing at all." It is a land of cold and wetness, where nothing much seems to happen. Don't take me seriously though, I am very biased, having just moved here from somewhere I loved a lot more.

And are you a native to Japan? Or from somewhere else originally?

No, I suppose I should explain: my parents are/were missionaries in Japan so I grew up there, but they're both from the UK. We've moved to N.Ireland a few times in the past, but always for a year and then back to Japan, while this is a more permanent move (for me, at least). I'm a British citizen too, but not so much on the inside, I like to think of it as more of a legal technicality.

Sooo.... what's this about a chocolate tree and jelly beans?

*Looks up* is it a competition? I vote chocolate *raises hand*... even though I don't think that's necessarily what this is about. No offense to jelly beans, but, ughh. *shudders*

*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.

*receives hug enthusiastically despite being uncertain as to what exactly it constitutes* Hi! Yeah, I've moved a lot in my life, but because this one is permanent-ish, and I'm so removed from the culture and everything, I'm finding it a lot more difficult. Being older doesn't help - I think it makes me miss things more.

Loving the new NaNo site

*Goes to check it out* (and becomes more and more swayed into the idea of doing this aaaall again )

Good mortereve, all! This catchup post will be comprised mainly of quotes, so bear with me.

I'm looooooving your new avatar, Louise the First. It's so warm and cozy and autumn-y looking. I'm hoping to find several pumpkins to put out on our front porch steps to welcome in the fall season.

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 )

AHHHHH. You just made me get super coffee/chocolate-hungry (....yep, that's a word. Says me.) I think we need to plant a coffee tree, or - better yet - a Starbucks tree..... even though you don't like coffee.

*waddles over to the chocolate tree to alleviate her cravings instead*

Vern's dragon hugs are the absolute best, to be sure! I need to find my own personal dragon. (Advice, anyone?)

Beautiful dittos, Louise!

Why thank you! We need them around more often, methinks.

I'm not sure whether or not I'm prone to in-grown toenails, but I would guess that I am. I've had them on both feet (though only surgery on one). The pain of the surgery was enough to get me soaking my feet in earnest.

*dittos Louise's sentiments on the French horn*

Speaking of canning grape juice, we just did that! Two days ago, in fact. We didn't get a whole lot done, though I would say we canned at least twenty to thirty jars. Homemade grape juice is sooo delicious.

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.

*le sigh* As one of my friends says, I must be the Queen of Awkward Moments. (Hey, that could be a nickname! Q.A.M. ) And oh yes, friends were with me when it happened. They got a kick out of it. Looking back on it, it makes a great story and I have to admit I chuckle a bit myself. But STILL. In front of the whole class! *shakes her head*

Thank you for the flowers, they're beautiful! *places them in a pretty pot so everyone can see them*

Oh my goodness, I laughed SO HARD at that turkey picture! How priceless.

AC!! Of course we remember you! 'Tis fabulous to see a post of yours again. Aw, moving must be so hard, no? I can't rightly say, as I've never had to move myself, but I can imagine. I hope the settling-in part evens out for you as soon as possible. How are you finding Northern Ireland? Are the people as friendly and the land as beautiful as I hear?

Yep, Elanor. Great Expectations was.....a weird book. Pretty creepy. I think I sounded like I enjoyed it more then I actually did. Ah well. I'm just glad it's OVER and I'm done reading it.

Anyone besides me NOT participating?

*raises hand* Me. I seriously considered it for several days, and then realized what an idiot I am to believe I can handle school, work, AND NaNo. Nope. Not enough time in my schedule.

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

Let's see here. Vern is PrinceCor004's pet dragon. Aiden and Nick both refer to the same NarniaWebber, NarniaNut95, who used to post frequently in here but has long since ceased to post. EDIT: I see people already explained this later on.

As for my favorite nicknames... I have to say Miss, Missy, and Mo take the top spots. I also love Rose, but with The Rose-Tree-Dryad around that name is pretty much killed for me. And, of course, I always love new ones.

Yep, Dotty, our school took off Columbus Day. How nice it was to get in that extra sleep!

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.

Bella planted that tree, I believe! She likes jelly beans. A lot.

*thinks Dotty's transport method is a brilliant idea, and transports out of the Square back to the textbooks* Cheers, all!

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!

JO!!!

Alas, I am not sure who actually planted the chocolate tree though it wasn't long before I discovered it. I have been delighted to sneak stuff from it partake of its bounty ever since. Since I am unable to tend the tree as often as it needs all efforts to keep it properly pruned (though I don't care for prunes with my chocolate) are appreciated.

*ambles by the adored tree and plucks a few truffles whilst waving at Miss Rosario*

Welcome back, Aslans Country! I imagine it must be hard moving halfway around the world. But - despite the rainy weather - I've heard Ireland is a beautiful place. It (and Japan) are among the places I'd like to visit someday.

*whispers* Yes, you want to do NaNo this year* (but I won't offer this temptation to Miss Rosario as she's already quite busy)

And it's nice to see Lady Amalthea around too. Speaking of the chocolate tree,

Since I am unable to tend the tree as often as it needs all efforts to keep it properly pruned...are appreciated.

It is my pleasure to prune it on occasion, as the resulting bits of wood make a wonderful aroma when burned in the campfire.

...(though I don't care for prunes with my chocolate)...

Ditto! (I tend to stay away from prunes in general )

'Tis after 1 am here; I should be in bed! Good mortereve, all!

Hey ho!

stargazer, I took a look at the Ontario fall colours map, and sure enough, further north (a couple of hours from us), the leaves are 90-100% changed, with many fallen. Down where we are, they are up to 9% changed, with the predominant colour still green. We should be reaching our peak towards the end of October, probably the beginning to mid of the last full week—quite late for this area.

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.

ENJOY! I wish NarniaWebbers could share this together some day.

AC, oooh, a wind band, nice! What musical is the school doing?

It is a land of cold and wetness, where nothing much seems to happen. Don't take me seriously though, I am very biased, having just moved here from somewhere I loved a lot more.

*sends AC extra since this move and adjustment has proven to be such a tough one, understandably*

Btw, I vote for CH♥C♥L♥TE too. Oooh, Bella planted the jelly-bean tree? Cool-io!

I think we need to plant a coffee tree, or - better yet - a Starbucks tree..... even though you don't like coffee.

Maybe we could graft a chocolate and coffee tree to make a mocha one? I hasten to add that I love the smell of coffee grinds. Mmmm ...

Vern's dragon hugs are the absolute best, to be sure! I need to find my own personal dragon. (Advice, anyone?)

Possibly Vern would have a relative or friend you could adopt?

The pain of the surgery was enough to get me soaking my feet in earnest.

I bet! Our youngest son had a few ingrown toenails through his younger years, and, ouch! He soon learned to soak them, oh yes, precioussss ...

Wow, nice about the grape juice canning, Louise!

also loves Rose

Mmm, that is so pretty. The other Rose I recall on the forum is wild rose.

Lady A, Royal Lady, JULIE! How are things in Archenland? The King behaving himself? The Prince, too, I trust ... and his dragon. Speaking of which, I had promised Vern a treat soon, so ..... Voilà -> straight off the grill.

Since I am unable to tend the tree as often as it needs all efforts to keep it properly pruned (though I don't care for prunes with my chocolate) are appreciated.

*giggles* Actually, I quite like prunes ... and chocolate ... but not mixed. Funny, they tend to have the opposite effect on one's system. But we won't go there. Ahem.

It is my pleasure to prune it on occasion, as the resulting bits of wood make a wonderful aroma when burned in the campfire.

Mmmm, chocolate-scented wood. Like a few of us have previously mentioned, the smell of bonfire/campfire is one of The Best. I also love the scent of wet earth and fallen leaves after a rain. Could drink that in (aside from the fact that it would be quite lumpy ).

On my walk this morning, the sky was so amazing. The clouds had begun to move in (after 6 or 7 days or clear, warm weather): they were being lit from behind by the full moon, and Jupiter was even visible in a small spot. The captivating scene reminded me somewhat of Ted Nasmith's beautiful painting of Gandalf being freed by Gwaihir from Orthanc and Saruman's clutches, except that, for me, the clouds were encompassing the moon, not an eagle. And there were no mountains, nor Tower of Isengard. *sigh* Still, the sight definitely drew me into the realm of longing and joy, and thankfulness to God, our Creator, for such utter beauty as the new day began.

*trundles into the Square with a smudge of frosting on her nose, dropping wooden spoons and splats of batter along the way* This afternoon, cupcakes are on the menu! Lemon ones, hot and fresh from the oven, with cream cheese frosting. Mmmm.

First of all....

A huge "HI" to Lady A!!!! It's wonderful to see you! *returns the wave heartily* Mm, yes. I try to keep the chocolate tree well pruned for you. And speaking of which, what's that I heard a little bit ago about a secret passageway running from Archenland to the chocolate tree? Hmmm hmmm? The Royal Family may have a bit of explaining to do. *has been wondering why the chocolate tree has been so well-trimmed of late. Perhaps Vern had something to do with the tunnel? One of these days he's going to torch the tree while trying to pick truffles. Poor fellow.

Speaking of that mocha tree, Louise the First..... *plants a small something in the dirt next to the fountain, replaces the dirt, and dusts off her hands* Give it a night and see what Narnian Magic brings in the morning, eh?

A complete list of the trees in the Town Square would be as follows, I believe:
- Chocolate tree
- Jelly bean tree
- Starburst tree
- I think there may have been a lollipop tree at one time.
- And now perhaps a mocha one?

Possibly Vern would have a relative or friend you could adopt?

Now there's an idea! *peers around for Vern*

Ahah, yes -- wild rose. There are quite a few Roses around. My, my.

Well, I had better be heading out to check those cupcakes and make sure they're...erm...edible. Safe for the family to eat.

*Cor and Vern enter the Square enjoying the overcast, Fall day*

It's finally feeling like FALL down here. It's cool, the leaves are changing/falling and it's cloudy/gloomy-esque outside. Perfect for listening to scary film scores.

*Yes.... we know. You have been, er, "entertaining" us with creepy scores for the past week. *

I get carried away sometimes, what can I say?

*Lots of things, but I shall refrain from saying them. *

O...K.... O_O

* *

... Anyway, the always lovely and multitalented Rose was kind enough to alert me to the fact that I and Vern should stop by here, so.... hi all! I don't think I have been in here since I got promoted... so, I draw your attention to the blue banner under my avvie. Pretty sweet, nu?

Life has been hectic, but good. College is keeping me busy as is writing for my blog and just normal Life stuff. As y'all already know, The Royal Mother paid a visit to the Square the other night... or was it the chocolate tree?

*Both? *

Oh yes! If anyone is interested I have made "A"'s on my last few tests. May not be of interested to most of y'all, but it's news.

Also, thanks to the efforts of some of my fellow Mods *coughLAandBookycough*, I am now hooked on the Doctor Who TV series. I'm slowly making my way through the 5th series and am currently in love with the score by Murray Gold. xDD

*Vern smells something coming from near the fountain... upon further inspection, he finds a plate of beef from Jo. Miss JO!!!! Thank you so very much for the food!!! Do I HAVE to share with Cor?? *

I share with you!!

*On occasion.... *

-------------------

I think that's about it. We'll try and stop by again over the upcoming weekend, though I make no promises!

See y'all around and hope everyone has a good evening/rest of the week!

*Cor and Vern wave, then depart the Square*

Cor! Nice to see you and Vern visit the Square. And you're hooked on Doctor Who? Enjoy! The 5th series was really good, in my opinion.

Enjoy your fall colours, jo! Wind, rain and hail wiped out most of ours earlier today, but the precipitation is welcome.

I love your description of the sky this morning:

On my walk this morning, the sky was so amazing. The clouds had begun to move in (after 6 or 7 days or clear, warm weather): they were being lit from behind by the full moon, and Jupiter was even visible in a small spot.

This, and the artwork you linked, reminded me of last night's final (for this season) campfire/stargazing session northeast of here. The day was beautiful and warm, with rain forecast by midnight. I enjoyed bratwurst roasted on an open fire, a very pleasant starlit evening, and watched the Hunter's Moon and Jupiter rise over the hills to the east. I caught a -5 Iridium flare in mid-evening, but even by then the clouds were approaching from the west. By 9 pm the sky was filled with puffy cumulus clouds, with the Moon trying to shine through the gaps. By 11 pm, back at home, it was raining.

Thank you Dot, Jo, and Miss Rosario for explaining all of the nicknames to me.

By the way, I am curious if there is anyone here that has a nickname that they'd prefer that I use?

Silly dog. Or should I say bear-cub?

Haha, yeah, bear-cub works, or horse, or wolf, but I usually do get bear. It's always funny walking her by myself cause I get the WEIRDEST looks. I'm pretty petite and she's big so I think people always wonder how on earth I'm controlling her, but she's a good girl.

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

Thankfully because of her oily coat, water doesn't soak in, it just sits on top for the most part, so she does dry off quickly.

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.

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.

I looked at the extended forecast and next week we're supposed to have highs in the 60s. Whew!!!! That's probably still on the warm side for you two But that's definitely getting chilly for me. I've already broken out the socks and light jackets.

Yeah, I've moved a lot in my life, but because this one is permanent-ish, and I'm so removed from the culture and everything, I'm finding it a lot more difficult. Being older doesn't help - I think it makes me miss things more.

Awww... I've never really had a great gift at making friends (thank God for NarniaWeb!!) so even though I've never changed countries, I do understand arriving in a new place that's very different from where you were and not knowing anybody and just being... stuck. I'll be praying you'll be able to find some things you love about Ireland soon!

Speaking of canning grape juice, we just did that! Two days ago, in fact. We didn't get a whole lot done, though I would say we canned at least twenty to thirty jars.

I love how you combine "we didn't get a whole lot done" and "twenty to thirty jars" in one sentence.

*waves hi to Lady Amalthea* Do you have any other nicknames besides Lady A? It's a nickname I associate with Lady Arwen. Course, she has plenty of other nicknames herself, so maybe I should just get used to you being Lady A.

...though I don't care for prunes with my chocolate...

Ditto! (I tend to stay away from prunes in general )

I'm going to have to side with Jo. I actually love prunes. But I've not had them with chocolate.

Maybe we could graft a chocolate and coffee tree to make a mocha one?

There you go Jo.

Lemon ones, hot and fresh from the oven, with cream cheese frosting. Mmmm.

Um, YUM! Last night my husband and I made our infamous Peanut Butter cookies. They're not your typical Peanut Butter cookies though. You take two cookies (what you'd think of when you hear peanut butter cookies) and put a creamy peanut butter filling in between them. So it's like the ultimate Nutter Butter.

Oh yes! If anyone is interested I have made "A"'s on my last few tests. May not be of interested to most of y'all, but it's news.

Congrats!!

So have I mentioned to everyone that we're looking into getting a couple beehives for next year? I've been researching like crazy to learn as much as possible. I'm admittedly feeling a bit overwhelmed. I think I can keep the bees alive, but extracting the honey? Eep! I'm also trying to figure out if I need to buy some weird seed for bee food. Like clover, alfalfa, and spearmint. The funny part about all this was that I remember from my distant past that Reading Rainbow had a bee episode once upon a time and I found most of it on YouTube. Boy was that a blast from the past.

Hello everyone!
It's getting cold again, though I am wearing shorts today, and was outside and wasn't cold. I had to snuggle up with a blanket and tea yesterday, and I had jeans on then!

*waves back to Ellie* Thanks. I remember you kept talking about getting your NaNo draft from last year somewhere... dare I ask? FYI, mine is sitting pretty much where I left in November , though I think I did go through and make notes on it all.

First of all - yay!! I'm so glad we convinced you to do it, I know you won't regret it. And I did finish my draft, I'm proud to say, and got a copy, fixed an embarrassing amount of errors, and then got another one, which I'm very happy about! I was in a big of a rush, but a lot less so than a lot of other people - I had ordered my copy by the time my sister even started editing. I thought I would want to order it immediately, but I found out differently.
Ooh, you should get a copy of it, though you'll have to pay. Just to have it sit on your shelf.

Yep, Elanor. Great Expectations was.....a weird book. Pretty creepy. I think I sounded like I enjoyed it more then I actually did. Ah well. I'm just glad it's OVER and I'm done reading it.

I hadn't realized that you considered it creepy. I suppose all of Dickens books could be considered creepy - actually, pretty much all of them are, except for maybe Tale of Two Cities. What have you read by him?
What? You're not doing NaNo?! There's still time!! xDD
*waves to Lady A*

Oh yes! If anyone is interested I have made "A"'s on my last few tests. May not be of interested to most of y'all, but it's news.

Of course we're interested! Congratulations!!
Ooh, my siblings just brought me home a great big hunking slab of cherry pie! Yum!
And tonight me and my brother have to teach 6 couples how to swing dance, for a wedding. And we don't actually know too much Swing. I'm slightly worried, but hopefully it'll be fun!

Happy fall weekend ... so fall-ish compared to last week at this time!

*trundles into the Square with a smudge of frosting on her nose, dropping wooden spoons and splats of batter along the way* This afternoon, cupcakes are on the menu! Lemon ones, hot and fresh from the oven, with cream cheese frosting. Mmmm.

After that tantalizing paragraph, it's most definitely time to pull out the infamous, food-related ... drool bucket.

what's that I heard a little bit ago about a secret passageway running from Archenland to the chocolate tree? Hmmm hmmm?

Well, now, that is a revelation. Does it come up INSIDE the trunk, to give easier (and sneakier) access to the contents? They could just reach down the branches and pull chocolate treats to their heart's content from the inside out.

And, Louise, I do believe I see a small sapling poking its head out of the dirt that smells uncannily like ... mocha! Good ol' Narnian air! in thanks.

I don't think I have been in here since I got promoted... so, I draw your attention to the blue banner under my avvie. Pretty sweet, nu?

Huh? I hadn't noticed ..................................... J/K
And we're so glad to have you on board the mad mod squad!

Woohooo, congrats on all those A's! 😀 <- clicky
Wups, this one might be more suitable.

Do I HAVE to share with Cor??

Now, Vern-dear, we need to have a talk. If I am going to continue treating you every once in a while, you need to at least give a nibble to the dear Prince ... k? If not, you will have to back to tapestries and slippers again.

I love your description of the sky this morning:

And I yours! Just have to repeat it here, it's so lovely:

The day was beautiful and warm, with rain forecast by midnight. I enjoyed bratwurst roasted on an open fire, a very pleasant starlit evening, and watched the Hunter's Moon and Jupiter rise over the hills to the east. I caught a -5 Iridium flare in mid-evening, but even by then the clouds were approaching from the west. By 9 pm the sky was filled with puffy cumulus clouds, with the Moon trying to shine through the gaps. By 11 pm, back at home, it was raining.

*contented sigh*

I am curious if there is anyone here that has a nickname that they'd prefer that I use?

I wish I had a 'funner' one, but it's "Jo" all the way. Either that or "hobbit", yet, cute though that is, it's a bit impersonal.

but she's a good girl

She surely is. I was impressed how very well behaved she was when 22 (!!) people were at your home for the Moot. You and Tom have excellent 'parenting' skills, fk!

I looked at the extended forecast and next week we're supposed to have highs in the 60s. Whew!!!! That's probably still on the warm side for you two But that's definitely getting chilly for me. I've already broken out the socks and light jackets.

And, even though daytime temps will be low to mid-50s the next few days, I'm still in capris (sometimes shorts) and tank tops, lol. What on earth is a ... jacket?

AslansCountry, been thinking about you ... and praying. How are things going? As fk said, I'm praying that there will be something positive soon that will help begin to ease this tough adjustment.

I love how you combine "we didn't get a whole lot done" and "twenty to thirty jars" in one sentence.

I somehow didn't catch at first the "we didn't get a whole lot done" bit, but now that fk highlighted it, I've quite got the chuckles ... more like the laughs, actually. Goodness, if that isn't getting a whole lot done, I'd be curious what is!

Um, YUM! Last night my husband and I made our infamous Peanut Butter cookies. They're not your typical Peanut Butter cookies though. You take two cookies (what you'd think of when you hear peanut butter cookies) and put a creamy peanut butter filling in between them. So it's like the ultimate Nutter Butter.

Okay, next Moot, you now have no doubt what is to be included on the menu, right? Maybe we could have a production line and help you make them whilst we're there. They sound awesome!!!

Sooo cool about the beehives, fantasia. Do keep us posted! I am very intrigued. Will you have the hives out on the farm instead of in your own yard? I'm asking because I believe that within our city limits, we're not allowed to have beehives.

Can I say again I love the enthusiasm of you NaNo-ites! 'Tis grand you got a copy of your novel from last year, Elanor. I can imagine it must be such a TREAT and privilege to see your own creative writing in print!

Btw, how did the swing-dance teaching go?

Well, I'm heading up north overnight. It'll be interesting to see how the colours compare there, as they're quite far ahead of our coloured leaf progression down here. The forecast is a stormy weekend for us in Ontario, but I'm loving it! One downside: it's tricky to hike in the pouring rain.

Good weekend to all; sozy clippers too! (Thinking of "good weekend" as a spoonerism: "wood geekend". )

Hi everyone! Been sitting here attempting to plan out my NaNo.. hopefully this should provide me with some structure come November, even though I generally find outlining distasteful. Getting excited for it to start, though - simultaneously impatient to start and worried that I don't have enough details planned out. I think Elanor's excitement it contagious.

AC!! Of course we remember you! 'Tis fabulous to see a post of yours again. Aw, moving must be so hard, no? I can't rightly say, as I've never had to move myself, but I can imagine. I hope the settling-in part evens out for you as soon as possible. How are you finding Northern Ireland? Are the people as friendly and the land as beautiful as I hear?

Hi! Thanks, settling is difficult, and I doubt I ever fully will, as I don't have much of an intention of spending time here beyond finishing school (probably go to England for university or something), but I have adjusted a bit. N.Ireland is.. a very different place from Japan. I'm not used to people being so open/casual in real life, which might sound like a strange thing to dislike, but it's hard to get used to when you're shy. And yes, if N.Ireland has one thing going for it it's the nature around here, which really is beautiful - we're living in the countryside, renting a house from a farmer, so it couldn't get much more different from urban Tokyo. I miss the city, too, but.. can't have everything, and of course you appreciate things more when you don't have them.

Welcome back, Aslans Country! I imagine it must be hard moving halfway around the world. But - despite the rainy weather - I've heard Ireland is a beautiful place. It (and Japan) are among the places I'd like to visit someday.

Thank you! It is.. if only the sun would shine more so as to be able to enjoy it! The strangest thing is the unpredictability of the weather - one minute it's sunny, then it's raining and sunny, then it clouds over, but then rain.. stops?

AC, oooh, a wind band, nice! What musical is the school doing?

Annie Get Your Gun. It's apparently not very famous, although I won't pretend to know anything about musicals. The rehearsals with the cast begin next week, so hopefully I'll be able to see a bit more of what it's actually about.

*sends AC extra since this move and adjustment has proven to be such a tough one, understandably*

Thank you... I do feel bad that I complain about it, especially when it's to my family, because they're all going through this to, so bear with me for awhile if I'm not too cheery.

Awww... I've never really had a great gift at making friends (thank God for NarniaWeb!!) so even though I've never changed countries, I do understand arriving in a new place that's very different from where you were and not knowing anybody and just being... stuck. I'll be praying you'll be able to find some things you love about Ireland soon!

Me neither.. I end up extra shy in new situations, so even though a few people do show a tentative interest in me, when I can't respond by joining in (loudly) on conversations and so on that I don't understand, they just let me be. Which is okay, but also lonely. Thankfully I've found a group of people who I can see eye-to-eye with more, and who are an equal mixture of shy/book-loving as me. They're not really in my classes.. but it's still a large improvement on the first week or two, which were.. interesting. And thank you, it's much appreciated.

First of all - yay!! I'm so glad we convinced you to do it, I know you won't regret it. And I did finish my draft, I'm proud to say, and got a copy, fixed an embarrassing amount of errors, and then got another one, which I'm very happy about! I was in a big of a rush, but a lot less so than a lot of other people - I had ordered my copy by the time my sister even started editing. I thought I would want to order it immediately, but I found out differently.
Ooh, you should get a copy of it, though you'll have to pay. Just to have it sit on your shelf.

I know, I'm excited. Ooh, congratulations! I know, I was afraid to go ahead and get mine because no matter what, I'd still want to change things.. and I'd have to pay for the second copy. How much did your second copy cost, out of interest?

AslansCountry, been thinking about you ... and praying. How are things going? As fk said, I'm praying that there will be something positive soon that will help begin to ease this tough adjustment.

Thanks... It's going okay. I think it's really a gradual thing.. I don't really notice it, but if I think back to when I started school at the beginning of September, for instance, things are very different. I've established a routine, which makes me more comfortable, and I'm gradually making friends (the process is so different in a bigger school, because you hardly see people before they're rushed off somewhere ). Going ice-skating with a few on Monday, which is a day off school, as a matter of fact. Should be good.

Well, I'm off to bed. And as Jo said, have a very Wood Geekend.

Good mortereve, all!

... Anyway, the always lovely and multitalented Rose was kind enough to alert me to the fact that I and Vern should stop by here, so.... hi all!

YAY, Cor! You came by! It's always good to see you. A double congrats to you on your recent modship and aced tests! Both very impressive accomplishments.

*sends Vern one of those hug-you-so-hard-you-can't-breathe hugs (though I'm not sure how well that works on a dragon... )* I've missed you! Glad to see that you're keeping Cor in line.

I love how you combine "we didn't get a whole lot done" and "twenty to thirty jars" in one sentence.

Well..... we usually can around fifty jars.

Oh. My. Goodness. Those peanut butter cookies sound amazing! *droooools*

True, Elanor. You have a point - Dickens' writings are just rather creepy in general. I haven't read many: only A Christmas Carol, Great Expectations, and part of a Tale of Two Cities (many years ago). I'm considering reading Oliver Twist, David Copperfield, and the rest of Tale of Two Cities. Which of his writings have you read?

No, I'm afraid I won't be doing NaNo this year. I would love to try it out, don't get me wrong, but school and work are both keeping me too busy. I don't think I can manage without growing another four arms and two heads. The best of luck to you, though!!

*has already made good use of Louise the First's drool bucket*

Well, now, that is a revelation. Does it come up INSIDE the trunk, to give easier (and sneakier) access to the contents? They could just reach down the branches and pull chocolate treats to their heart's content from the inside out.

Ahah, now there's the idea! If Lady A hasn't already come up with this ingenious plan, I might have to put it into action myself. Except going from Michigan to the chocolate tree, of course.

*squeals at the sight of the baby mocha tree!*

I'm not used to people being so open/casual in real life, which might sound like a strange thing to dislike, but it's hard to get used to when you're shy.

I can totally relate to that statement, actually. I am very shy as well, and - though I am typically most comfortable around extroverted people - sometimes it has the opposite effect. I get all nervous and awkward, and I don't know what to talk about. Oh wow, your family is living on a farm in the country? *contented sigh* I'm a girl for the country. (Or....I like to think I am.... I've never lived in a city. Only visited.) Do you like the crowds?

More hugs and prayers sent your way.

And with that, I'm off! A supper of hot potato & dumpling soup is awaiting.
Happy Friday to you all!

*tumbles down a long invisible stairway into the fountain, which is in the center of the Square, which is the center of Narnia, which is in the world of... Narnia?*

Well hello folks! Been a little bit since I have been here... How have you all been doing in my absence? Guess that is a no-brainer, who could do good in my absence? Joking

I'm back in Florida now, had a good time in Colorado but it's always nice to be home. Not too much going on out of the normal other than me getting a Recurve bow and I have been shooting that a lot. Went hunting yesterday but mosquitoes were so bad that I had to leave. I was planning on staying last night out in the woods and hunting again today but with those mosquitoes who could?

Now for some catchup

*gasps* *gasps again* ....Ben? BEN! *hugtackles* Wow, it's so good to see you come by! It sounds like you and yours have had a busy summer. Your sister got married, eh? Fun! (Or maybe....stressful? Lol.) Is she the sister who had the brilliant proposal (which you told us all about in here, of course)? Or....was that another sibling....I seem to recall you having a lot of them.

What are you doing for work?

Oooh, and you're learning Spanish? I am as well. And how fun about Peru! I'm going to be going on Spain tour next year with the rest of my class. It should be a really neat experience.

It is good to come by! Though it has been few and far between .
Very busy indeed. Yep she did alright, the family here at home is getting smaller and smaller. I guess It could be stressful if you made it that way, which is not hard I guess when you only have 3 weeks warning, lol.
It was another sibling. My brother (#6 in the family line) did it to his fiancee (sp?), now his wife. And they are expecting baby number 1 in four months!
Yes I sure do!

I'm a painter (house painting, interior and exterior).

Oh you are, that is cool! It is a good experience learning a different language.
Oh sweet! My brother (#4) and his wife plan on going to Spain this coming year as well.

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

Tis good to see you too Aunty-Jo!
I do hope that it all works out (which it should). It will be a blast I'm sure, as well as spiritually building.

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

That is very true, it used to take a day (little exaggeration, precious little though) to do what has gone by in the past month. Which I must say it is nice to have a bit of a slower Square...

Have to seen the Hobbit production videos? I can't wait for the movie! Going to be great.

I have had a pretty hectic half year, to be fair. I've successfully completed the move from Japan to Northern Ireland...

Northern Ireland! That sounds like a great place to be, as far as the scenery goes. Don't know much about culture.

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

Wish you could send some of that cold weather down here! We always enjoy that here in the Sunshine State. Plus it would put to rest the mosquitoes! I can't stand those terrible pests.

Well I must be off now, got breakfast to eat and then off to church.

--Benjamin

Hey ho, all ye SquareOnions!

I think Elanor's excitement it contagious.

I think all of you NaNo-ites' excitement and eagerness is contagious. 10 & 1/2 more days!!!

Mmm, sounds like rural Ireland is as beautiful as they say, Aslans Country! It looks like you have your sights set outside Ireland for the future, so all the best with those plans. Would you consider moving back to Japan some day? Or is that in the past now?

I've heard of Annie Get Your Gun, but that's the extent of it : haven't a clue what the musical is about either.

so bear with me for awhile if I'm not too cheery.

Most definitely! Feel free to unload. Every one needs a place to do that.

Thankfully I've found a group of people who I can see eye-to-eye with more, and who are an equal mixture of shy/book-loving as me. They're not really in my classes.. but it's still a large improvement on the first week or two, which were.. interesting.

I'm really glad to hear this. Even one or two friends can make all the difference. I'm thankful you don't feel so alone anymore. And *nods* routines are good; comforting.

50 jars, Louise, wow! How come less this year? Wasn't the crop as prolific?

You're going to Spain with your class? Neat-o! When? Can you speak Spanish fairly well?

I will admit, I am a fan of Dickens' writings. Probably because my dad has been a huge reader of Dickens for decades (he's in his mid-80s now and still voraciously reads). Guess it sorta rubbed off. My favourite two books are A Christmas Carol and A Tale of Two Cities.

I'm a girl for the country. (Or....I like to think I am.... I've never lived in a city. Only visited.)

Cool. I didn't realized you lived in the country. How lovely! I was a city girl growing up, being brought up in the suburbs of two major Canadian cities—Toronto and Montréal—until I went away to university, and stayed a city-liker up until the past ten years or so, when I've been longing to move to the country (although not waaay out in the middle of nowhere ).

Benjamin! *hands Ben a cozy towel for after he climbs out of the fountain* You pulled a Lady A, I see.

Have to seen the Hobbit production videos? I can't wait for the movie! Going to be great.

Oh yes. I've been faithfully following any and all news (and prod. videos) that has come out. Speaking of which, I think it's time for Production Video 4 soon, don't you? *pokes PJ*

So, you're back in Florida now? Which state do you prefer living in, if I may ask? Since I'm a non-heat person, I'd vote for Colorado.

Well, I'm finally getting out regularly for my morning walks (and loving them), now that the temperatures have been consistently cooler—around 5C/low 40sF in the early hours of the day. I become rather weary by evening, getting up with the alarm just after 5:30 each a.m., but it's worth it! I thoroughly enjoy jogging, then walking, out under the crisply-clear autumn stars. Lately, though, the clouds have overtaken the sky, and it's been rather blustery—adventurous-type weather, which is mighty cool too.

So, wishing everyone a Wood Geekend ( ); sozy clippers too!

*leaves some scrumptious, homemade apple crisp by the fountain. Now, Vern, make sure you save some for the rest of us.

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