What's New Archive

What's New - October, 2000


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Tuesday October 31, 2000

Random Ramblings (By Celine): HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!!

Boo!

I'm sure you're thoroughly scared. I apologize, and swear not to do it again.

Boo!

Whoops, sorry. It just slipped out. And I promise, after tomorrow, all my Halloween stuff will be through and I won't talk about it, anymore.

I confess I didn't have time to take more photos of my Halloween decorations. See, I had to go to the store, then to the doctor, then back to the store to get a couple of prescriptions filled but then one of them couldn't be filled, and then I had to work, and then clean, and spend a good deal of time holding my little kitten Tango because he's rather obsessed with being held.

That, and I kinda forgot. But I will be take more pictures of the decorations later. I did take a photo of something else today, though. One of my kitties, Pesha, wasn't overly thrilled with the new kitten for the first few days. But now she's warmed up to the idea. You can see them snuggling together:

hhttp://www.specialweb.com/kitty/tango_pesha.jpg

Pesha's the big mass of black fur on the left. That photo was taken after Pesha spent several minutes bathing Tango. I think everybody's happy now.

What's New:

Monday October 30, 2000

Random Ramblings (By Celine): So I just went outside and took a few photos of the ol' Halloween decorations. Wanna see?

http://www.xenafanfiction.com/beyond/halloween

There's a handful there. Part of the decorations still aren't up, and part of the photos didn't come out, so not everything was photographed. And I basically stuck with the handmade decorations.

There is a shot of the full yard (ironically called full_yard.jpg). Since the yard sort of goes around a corner leading up to the porch, the photo doesn't really give the full feel of things. But, you can see part of the zillion or so pumpkins I've been babbling about.

The two pumpkins were a pain in the watoozee to take pictures of, so forgive my not-so-great photo taking abilities. The hands coming up out of the ground are actually a set of remote control holders. They were too dorky to use as such, so they're now a dead person's hands coming up out of the ground to grab unsuspecting children.

I'll try to take some photos tomorrow during the day to see what happens. Left to do: carve more pumpkins, put up some cobwebs, and add the last minute decorations on Tuesday.

What's New:

Sunday October 29, 2000

Random Ramblings (By Celine):

Tango.

That's the new name of my kitty. We almost went with Bonito, which means pretty/beautiful in Spanish, to describe this montage Felix Brat did of the kitty:

http://www.xenafanfiction.com/beyond/riotheleo.jpg

Then AlliKat & Beth suggested Tango, and it just felt right. But I'll keep Bonito as a nickname, since he is a very pretty little fella.

Many thanks to Felix, AlliKat & Beth, and to all who wrote and suggested names. You guys are very creative! :)

In Halloween decorating news, I have two pumpkins carved. One has a crazed grin -- in honor of GabGold and her thankfully empty threat of pumpkin recipes, and the other is Mr. Death... a skull in a cloak with a scythe. This one is in honor of.... nobody, really. It would be weird to honor someone with a pumpkin called Mr. Death. I still have the one honoring those who answered about Exposure to carve, and the one I've promised in honor of Raven. I'll be taking photos of the completed ones tomorrow, when I get the candles in.

I also created Madam Pesha (named after one of my kitties). We have a glass gazing ball in the front yard, so I decided to create a fortune teller to sit behind it. So far, she hasn't told me my fortune. Perhaps if her head wasn't stuffed with newspaper, she might have more to say.

I have the same problem.

It's supposed to rain on Halloween... which is a major bummer. But since I live in Oregon, everyone is used to the rain, and it shouldn't deter many kids from trick or treating.

What's New:

  • Gossamer - Episode 46: Discoveries Posted at the Gossamer site (Beyond Uber)
    Abigayle Nguyen digs deep for secrets in the South. Bruce Dooley has an extremely pleasurable workout. And Dominique makes a startling discovery.

  • Take One Head and Call Me In the Morning By Lariel posted at the Merpup Academy of Bards (Beyond Uber Alt)
    Halloween tale. Lady Xena was never one to let a little thing like death get in the way of a good relationship...

  • The Honeymoon - Conclusion By Lena posted at the Merpup Academy of Bards (Beyond Uber Alt)
    Conclusion. *****Celine Recommends*****

  • Conspiracy of Swords - Parts 9 and 10 By Shadowriter posted at the Merpup Academy of Bards (Beyond Uber Alt)
    Continuing story.

  • Finding My Way - Part 2 By Mavis Applewater posted at the Merpup Academy of Bards (Beyond Uber Alt)
    Part Two of a five part series. Stephanie's journey continues. *****Raven Recommends*****

Saturday October 28, 2000

Random Ramblings (By Celine): Just like a proud parent (which I am... cats are children, too), it's time to show you the photos of my new arrival: Okay, say it with me now: "Awwwwwwwwwwww!"

The second photo shows my doberman investigating the new kitty. The dark spots on the kitty's fur are where the cocker spaniel, Kira, sniffed and licked the kitty in greeting, so his fur is damp. The kitty's new best friend is Kira.

Activities the kitty has engaged in since arrival: running all over the house, sleeping, purring, bathing, licking my hand, being not at all afraid of the other animals, getting under furniture, laying on my chest, more bathing, more purring, and more running around the house. He also spent several minutes laying on my back, even though I was sitting up and trying to use the phone. I had to lean forward the whole time.

At present, he's sitting on a towel on my desk. Oh, wait, strike that... he just climbed back on my chest. Isn't that just like a man? ;)

Okay, so something like that isn't gender specific.

By the way, if anyone's interested, the kitty came from a customer of the pet supply place who needed homes for the kittens.

Ask, and Ye Shall Receive:

The kitty names are rolling in... Uber, Tiger, Blue, Hank, Homer, Alex, Amorcito (means "little love"), Carińo (pronounced Karinew, means "dear") Easyboy, Felix, Hairy, Louis, Rex, Sharpy, Spooky, Totty, Victor.

Thanks to everyone who submitted names! I haven't made any decisions yet, so if any of you have any more suggestions, I'm open to anything. My address is celinec@wvi.com. When I finally to settle on a name, you can count on it being posted here.

What's New:

  • Now Playing on the Jukebox in Hell - Part 12 Updated By ROCFanKat posted at the Devil's Workshop (Beyond Uber Alt)
    Continuing story.

  • It Takes All Kinds - Part 6 By Ri posted at Lynka's Fan Fiction (Beyond Uber Alt)
    Continuing story.

  • Conspiracy of Swords - Parts 1 through 8 By Shadowriter posted at the Merpup Academy of Bards (Beyond Uber Alt)
    FBI agent Alexia Reis joins forces with ex-CIA assassin Teren Mylos to find out who's behind the murders of several left-wing activists and politicians. The mystery deepens as they uncover a conspiracy involving the far-right, old Nazis, new Nazis, and a hoard of looted gold.

  • Conspiracy of Swords - Parts 9 and 10 By Shadowriter posted at Lynka's Fan Fiction (Beyond Uber Alt)
    Continuing story.

  • Unsuspecting Target By Trigar posted at Lynka's Fan Fiction (Beyond Uber Alt?)
    Summary pending. Complete.

  • The Alabaster Hand By Nene Adams posted at her site (Beyond Uber Alt)
    A special Gaslight short story for the Halloween season. When Lina and Rhiannon are invited to a Halloween party, it proves to be more tricks than treats when an ancient Egyptian curse is seemingly responsible for murder! Can our intrepid Victorian heroines solve the mystery in time? Read this tale to find out!

  • Lost Faith By damnation posted at Tigg's site (Beyond Uber Alt)
    Summary pending. To be continued in "Heart of Darkness."

  • Trick or Treat? By GabGold posted at Tigg's site (Beyond Uber Alt)
    Gabe and Rebecca from My Girl are back with more Halloween Hijenks! And, um, you'll see a cameo by "the pumpkin lady." Guess who that might be? ;) *****Celine Recommends*****

  • Mail-Order Bride - Part 8 By Janice Logan posted at Tigg's site (Beyond Uber Alt)
    Continuing story.

  • The Messenger - Part 1 By FlyBigD posted at Tigg's site (Beyond Uber Alt)
    #22 in the Plan D series. Continuing story. *****Celine Recommends*****

  • Second Generation By V. Traw posted at Tigg's site (Beyond Uber Alt)
    Summary pending.

Friday October 27, 2000

Random Ramblings (By Celine): I didn't mean to do it. Really. It was an accident. Not my fault at all.

See, I had to go to the pet supply store to get some flea stuff for my doggies, of which I have three (dogs, not fleas). And the pet supply store just kinda happened to have kittens. And I kinda happened to buy a kitten. An orange tom. And I kinda go back tomorrow to pick him up, since they're giving him his shots tonight.

It wasn't my fault. It's genetic. We already have two cats. But we just lost one not too long ago, so.... you know. I couldn't stop myself. I'm just lucky I got out of there before I bought the whole litter.

This kind of thing is exactly why I studiously avoid pet stores and the Humane Society. I am a major wimp, and can't resist a cute animal. Now I have to think up a name... I'll take suggestions at celinec@wvi.com. ;)

On a semi-related note, I am in the process of clipping my doberman's toenails. The dog, Coco, hates this, and whines and whimpers and bares her teeth every time I do it. She won't bite me, or anyone else for that matter, but she certainly puts on a good show. At present, she's sprawled on my bed, with seemingly no care in the world. But whenever I grab a foot to start clipping, the whining starts. I love her, really, but she has *such* an attitude.

It couldn't be that she's spoiled... could it? Nah.

Did I mention she's sleeping on my bed?

Link Corrections:

Yes, friends, I've made a couple of mistakes. Again. I messed up some URLs, and put the wrong part number one of those stories. So here are the corrected links, and I apologize to DJ Wood, the bard whose story listings I mangled:

  • Crossroads By DJ Wood posted at Tigg's site (Beyond Uber Alt)
    Can therapy really help a troubled woman? Short story.

  • Scars - Part 3 By DJ Wood posted at Tigg's site (Beyond Uber Alt)
    Continuing story.
Thanks to DJ and Wendy for pointing things out. We really appreciate it. I've also corrected the previous listings.

What's New:

Thursday October 26, 2000

Random Ramblings (By Celine): Christmas decorations are already out in stores. This is dangerous for me. If you think I went nuts for Halloween, you should see the Christmas light display we put up on the house and in the yard every year. Anyway, I did refrain for the most part from buying any decorations, but I did spend $3 on a little animated Santa who disco dances and sings a Christmas version of "Stayin' Alive" by the BeeGees, called "Drivin' the Sleigh." I have a collection of animated Santas, so this little guy will fit right in.

Right now he's sitting on my monitor, next to my little one-eyed, one horned, singing purple people eater, and a little red bull which isn't holiday related, but is very cute, nonetheless. I could go into a long dissertation of my other stuffed animals, but I won't... except to say I have a Dilbert head you bang on a desk or some other hard surface and it says things like, "I'm surrounded by idiots," and, "That's the stupidest thing I've ever heard."

Uber News Addition:

I neglected to include the address where you can go to order MaryD's book, "Out of Darkness," in the last update. So here ya go:

http://rapbooks.com/order.html

You can order several other great books at RAP Books, too, so head on over.

What's New:

  • Love's Journey - Part 6 By Carrie Carr posted at MaryD's (Beyond Uber Alt)
    Continuing story. *****Celine Recommends*****

  • Convergence - Part 25 By Kandis Glasgow posted at MaryD's (Beyond Uber Alt)
    Continuing story. *****Celine Recommends*****

  • Lost Paradise By WolfDragon posted at MaryD's (Beyond Uber Alt)
    This story is a prequel to Daredevil Hearts. Enter the exciting world of stuntwoman, Kristina Von Deering. Durning the filming of a movie in Montreal, Kristina finds the piece that's been missing in her life. Will it be happy ever after, or will circumstances beyond Kristina's control decide her fate?

  • Discoveries By WolfDragon posted at MaryD's (Beyond Uber Alt)
    Sequel to Daredevil Hearts (already posted to MaryD's), which is a sequel to Lost Paradise (above).

  • Northern Peace and Perils By WolfDragon posted at MaryD's (Beyond Uber Alt)
    Summary pending.

  • New Beginnings - Chapters 15 through 18 Beta By MaryD posted at MaryD's My Little Corner (Beyond Uber Alt)
    Continuing story.

  • The Curse - The Legend of Ann Bounty - Part 18 By Anita Louise posted at Lynka's Fan Fiction (Beyond Uber Alt)
    Continuing story.

  • Forest Elf - Parts 11 through 13 Conclusion By J Falconer posted at Lynka's Fan Fiction (Beyond Uber Alt)
    Conclusion.

  • Starting Over By Kelly Aten posted at Lynka's Fan Fiction (Beyond Uber Alt)
    Summary pending.

  • Moving On By Kelly Aten posted at Lynka's Fan Fiction (Beyond Uber Alt)
    Sequel to Start Over (above).

  • Faces of Evil - Part 5 By ShoeX posted at Lynka's Fan Fiction (Beyond Uber Alt)
    Continuing story.

  • Second Generation By Victoria Traw posted at Lynka's Fan Fiction (Beyond Uber Alt)
    Summary pending.

Wednesday October 25, 2000

Random Ramblings (By Celine): Some folks have been asking if I'll be taking pictures of my Halloween decorations. The answer, of course, is yes. I take pictures of everything... my pets, family, flowers, cement, dirt, air. The photos probably won't be posted until Halloween night or the next day, as part of the decorations can't be put up until Halloween day.

My new computer is presently finding its little way to my home... should be here next week. With any luck, it won't become obsolete until *after* I open the box.

Uber News:

Mary (MaryD) Draganis' book, "Out of Darkness," (a combo of "In the Blood of the Greeks" and "Land of Milk and Honey") will be published by Renaissance Alliance Publishing in January, 2001. Congrats, MaryD! This is very cool news.

What's New:

Tuesday October 24, 2000

Random Ramblings (By Celine): I had plans... big plans, involving cobwebs, work, and playing with my new computer. Not necessarily in that order.

But, no. I'm afraid it wasn't meant to be. Oh, the computer came... but it's not at all what I need. So it's going back on its merry little way to the place it came from.

I spent the rest of the day trying to call around to get one custom made, which is what I should have done in the first place. Word to the wise -- don't let someone else pick out your computer.

So, I have another computer on order. But the really bummed out part of this is I didn't get to do any Halloween decorating today. And I cleaned my desk for nothing! That is *so* depressing. Oh, well. There's always tomorrow for decorating. I still have to do the work tonight, though.

I may have to consol myself with cookies (very peanut butter chocolate chip oatmeal, to be exact) and milk. Drastic times call for drastic measures.

Incredibly long update tonight... you have your reading cut out for you this time around. I'm sure you're just totally disappointed by that.

What's New:

Monday October 23, 2000

Random Ramblings (By Celine): My new computer should arrive tomorrow, so I've been trying to... uh, prepare for its arrival. That means moving drives, cards, etc., and making backups of my current hard drive stuff... which isn't much of a problem, since I'm going to network the two together, so I can just copy straight across, anyway.

No, the real problem -- I have to clean my desk. This is bad, friends. On my desk: a computer, monitor, DSL modem, network hub, cable box, TV, UPS backup, power strip, CD holder, microphone, pen holder, various stuffed animals, and several small assorted items... CDs, remotes, pens, and several other things which, at this time, haven't been identified. They may never be.

And that's just the main area of the desk. The shelves are an entirely different matter. I don't have to deal with them right now, thankfully.

It should be interesting to see what's lurking behind my computer. It could be anything. I wonder how many times I'll exclaim, to no one in particular, "That's where that was!" and, "Well, that explains the smell."

I should point out my desk isn't very big. Yeah, I don't know how I fit all that on it, either.

Oh, cool... I just found money. $1.24 in change. I'm rich.

And, for the record, I did more Halloween decorating today. Have I mentioned my two flood lights I'll be using to illuminate the whole display and to make it safe for the little kiddies to traverse through all the decorations?

What's New:

  • Rightful Claims - Part 2 By Carrie's AJ posted at her site (Beyond Uber Alt)
    Continuing story. *****Celine Recommends*****

  • Falling Stars - Parts 1 through 4 By Web Bard posted at her site (Beyond Uber Alt)
    Sequel to Falling. Continuing story. *****Celine Recommends*****

  • Gossamer - Episode 45: The News and The Blues Posted at the Gossamer site (Beyond Uber)
    Abigayle prepares to leave town. A friend helps Kris see her husband in a new light. Mark and Tiffany do something other than homework.

  • Culture Clash - Chapter XV By Malaurie Barber posted at her site (Beyond Uber Alt)
    Continuing story.

  • More Than There Are Stars By Loubug posted at the Merpup Academy of Bards (Beyond Uber Alt)
    Two souls find one another and a love as eternal as the stars around them. Destined to be together, Robin and Sarah will face there greatest enemies, and bask in the joy and abilities that only true soul mates can share. Join them in a fantastic outer-space adventure.

  • Haunting Shadows - Parts 1 through 6 By JM Dragon posted at the Merpup Academy of Bards (Beyond Uber Alt)
    Summary pending. Continuing story.

  • Cold - Part 3 By Midgit posted at her site (Beyond Uber Alt)
    Continuing story.

  • The Seventh Path - Part 5 By SnowRaven posted at her site (Beyond Uber Alt)
    Continuing story.

  • The Movie Star By Vada Foster posted at The Courtroom (Beyond Uber Alt)
    A famous actress heads out to her private beach on the hottest day of the year only to discover a beautiful trespasser. They deal with the heat in a most... intriguing way. *****Celine Recommends*****

  • Four Mondays By MJ posted at the Moonlit Xena Reading Corner (Beyond Uber Alt)
    When Alice Bateman misses the person she is destined to be with, a higher power decides to give them both another chance.

Sunday October 22, 2000

Random Ramblings (By Celine): Did more Halloween decorating today (I'm sure you're shocked beyond reason). Not much, though, since it had to go and rain part of the day. I still have lights, a coffin, a fortune teller, several ghosts, more skeletons (one of which sings "Hot, Hot, Hot"), more lights, some animated heads, a scary lookin' full-sized bloodied up guy, spiders, cobwebs, a witch, more lights, blinking eyes, a Dracula head, a screaming doormat, more lights, bugs, scary lookin' hands coming up out of the dirt, several pumpkins to carve, sound effects to rig up, and more stuff I just can't remember right now, still left to put up.

My spare bedroom looks like a storage room for a holiday-themed store.

In music news, my current obsession is a new CD by... um, well, remember Tiffany, of "I Think We're Alone Now" fame from the late 1980's? Yeah, her. Believe me, this music is completely different And good. You can download a free MP3 of one of her songs at http://www.emusic.com/features/tiffany.

Strange how things from one's youth comes back around.

In Non-Uber Story News:

It's classic X/G and not uber, but I don't care. Go read:

  • You've Got Scrolls (Alt) By T Novan, Advocate, and Fanatic, three of my favorite bards. The very funny story chronicles the first ever mailing list.
What's New:
  • Undeniable - Part 9 By KM posted at the Merpup Academy of Bards (Beyond Uber Alt)
    Continuing story. *****Celine and Raven Recommend*****

  • Drag King: The Burning Dream - Part 27 Updated By Smitty posted at the New Library of Alexandria (Beyond Uber Alt)
    Continuing story.

  • A Once and Future Love By Nancy M posted at Lynka's Fan Fiction (Beyond Uber)
    Short uber which takes place in the time of Camelot. Complete.

  • Community Service - Part 4 By Tigerlily posted at Lynka's Fan Fiction (Beyond Uber Alt)
    Continuing story.

  • Conspiracy of Swords - Part 5 and Part 6 By Shadowriter posted at Lynka's Fan Fiction (Beyond Uber Alt)
    Continuing story.

  • Designs of the Heart - Part 1 By Heartbrkn Bard posted at Lynka' Fan Fiction (Beyond Uber Alt)
    Summary pending. Continuing story.

Saturday October 21, 2000

Random Ramblings (By Celine): Greetings from the sleep and uber deprived update Okay, the update isn't sleep and uber deprived, but I am. My two cats, bless their little souls, decided it would be fun to play with the cupboards in the bathroom early this morning. so I awoke to the sound of "thunk, thunk, thunk, thunk..." The little darlings thought it was cool to open the doors and let them bang closed. Then, when I went back to my bed, a glass of milk left on my desk fell off into the floor, for no apparent reason. I've been awake ever since.

In really cool news:

We've won an award!!!

No, really, we did. It's called the Uber Excellence Award, and is from Michelle. You can view the award at:

http://www.xenafanfiction.com/beyond/uber_award.jpg

And her site at:

http://www.mickyxena.homestead.com

Thanks, Michelle!

What's New:

Friday October 20, 2000

Random Ramblings (By Celine): Eh. It's been another one of those days... you know the kind. It's the kind when the contestants on Who Wants To Be A Millionaire are all morons and should be shot because you know the answers and they don't so you must be way smarter and they're all morons. Not that this isn't true, but it really becomes apparent when one is having one of those days.

In Halloween decorating news, the store had their decorations priced half off. So I bought a werewolf head which sings "I'm Your Boogie Man" and some pumpkin shaped candles. And a little stuffed one-eyed, one-horned singing purple people eater. No, he doesn't fly, but he does sing the song. And his tongue is sticking out. I'm not sure why.

You know, if you think about it, the lyrics to "Boogie Man" are suggestive... you know, "I'm your boogie man, you can turn me on, anytime you want..." But, fortunately, young children won't understand, teenagers might snicker, and parents might wax nostalgic about how lyrics really meant something back in their day. :)

Someone I don't know stopped me in the store and asked if I was doing my house all up for Halloween this year. She said her granddaughter just loved the decorations. So you can see why I have been buying so much Halloween stuff. I do it for the adoring public.

In response to the lady, I sat their like an idiot, smiled, and nodded my head. Then, my brain finally started working, and I managed to say thank you. Boy, I'm a great socializer.

More on the Exposure thingie -- Raven emailed Fanatic about the Little Roo topic. She said as y'all who'd answered had said, that Harper has never really explained why she does it. If anyone is interested, it first appeared in Season 1, Episode 6 (http://ausxip.com/exposure/season1.html).

What's New:

  • Heart of Stone By Lariel posted at MaryD's (Beyond Uber... possibly)
    A short story of the narrator lamenting over never having told their love of their feelings. The story could be classic X/G, uber, or whatever your imagination brings to the story.

  • Tropical High - Part 8 Updated By Melissa Good posted at MaryD's (Beyond Uber Alt)
    Continuing story. *****Celine Recommends*****

  • High Intensity - Part 10 By Bel-wah posted at MaryD's (Beyond Uber Alt)
    Continuing story.

Thursday October 19, 2000

Random Ramblings (By Celine): You'll never guess what I did today. Here's a hint:

One pumpkin, two pumpkins, three pumpkins, four
Five, six, seven, eight.... oh, what's a few more
Nine, ten, eleven, twelve... and thirteen
I now have fourteen... okay, so it's actually fifteen

Yes, friends, I now have fifteen pumpkins. But that's it, I swear. But the upside, I can now dedicate several of them to everyone who wrote regarding the Exposure question. The answer, of course, is there wasn't ever a definite explanation. So, pumpkins are dedicated to:

Nalysia, Sonia, Ilene, Sharon, and Fairdays (did I miss anyone? If so, I apologize!). You guys are great. Thanks very much for writing.

In other news, AJ provided a nifty summary of her nifty story, Rightful Claims:

"As Liz and Jenny's lives are turned upside down by the love they find in each other, and by the reactions of their coworkers and families, they discover that the things around them aren't always what they look like, and that the people that they thought they knew aren't always who they seem to be."

If you haven't read the first part yet, you're missing out.

What's New:

Wednesday October 18, 2000

Random Ramblings (By Celine): Lucy Lawless once said in an interview Xena would kick Wonder Woman's behind. Okay, so she didn't say "behind,: but you get the point. Anyway, so the SciFi channel showed a Wonder Woman marathon on Monday, and I watched a couple episodes.

I must say, with all due respect to Wonder Woman, that Lucy Lawless is absolutely right. Sure, Wonder Woman can jump really high and make people tell the truth with her little rope thingie. But Xena can jump even higher and can do flips and take out bad guys along the way. And her pinch thingie can make anyone tell the truth. Xena's leathers are way cooler than Wonder Woman's red, white, and blue getup. There are more side-by-side comparisons I could go into, but I think you get the point.

Besides, Xena has Gabrielle. 'Nuff said.

In pumpkin news, I bought two more today. I couldn't help it... they were buy one get one free. I now have twelve pumpkins, with plans of getting at least two more.

I'm dedicating one to a certain unnamed bard who threatened me with pumpkin recipes. She requested it to be carved with a crazy smiling face, so a crazy smiling face it shall have.

Uber Question: Raven, a latecomer to, and now loyal fan of, Fanatic and T Novan's absolutely wonderful Exposure series, asked me why Harper calls Kelsey "Little Roo." I must confess I don't remember. If any of our lovely viewers know the answer, please email one or both of us (celinec@wvi.com, ravensnevermore@home.com) with the answer. We would forever be in your debt, and I will dedicate a pumpkin in your honor.

Speaking of our lovely viewers, thanks to Kris for pointing out I'd forgotten to upload the September What's New archive. It's all fixed now.

What's New:

Tuesday October 17, 2000

Random Ramblings (By Celine): I'm in a stranger than normal mood tonight, so the update reflects that. I apologize.

Short update tonight, but some good stuff. Okay, so I always say that, but that's because it's always true.

The other day I apparently left out an essential letter in the email version of the update. I wrote "Uber Is My Sunsine" instead of "Uber Is My Sunshine." Thanks to Isabel for pointing this out. I'm not sure what sunsine is, but it sounds mathematical... which I diligently try to avoid. :)

It's official... I hereby grant GabGold's latest story, Makes Us Stronger... (http://www.geocities.com/gabskokopellicafe/makesusstronger.html), a *****Celine Recommends*****. She's a darned good writer, and her stories are wonderful. See Uber News below for her new web site address.

In pumpkin news, I've been plotting how to carve them. I have some kits because I lack true carving talent. Really, I'm just trying to ignore the political ads on TV. Sure, I could turn it off, but then I'd have to do something productive, and I just don't wanna.

Uber News:

Fantastic uber bard GabGold now has her own web site, with all her stories (all of which have received Celine Recommends. Don't let that stop you from reading them... :) ). Check the site out at:

http://www.geocities.com/gabskokopellicafe

What's New:

    Rightful Claims - Part 1 By Carrie's AJ posted at her site (Beyond Uber Alt)
    AJ's back with a new uber! Yeah! No summary yet because I suck at writing them, but I'll get one to you... hopefully, by tomorrow, especially if some helpful bard with initials in her name writes one. ;) *****Celine Recommends*****

    Reece's Faith - Parts 11 and 12 By Vertigo posted at her site (Beyond Uber Alt)
    Continuing story.

Monday October 16, 2000

Random Ramblings (By Celine): Someone on this list -- I'm not naming names, but she's a bard who writes really good stories... okay, so there are several of those -- has threatened to send me a "whole lot" of pumpkin recipes. I want to thank her, oh ye nameless bard, for your thoughtfulness. But, don't tell my pumpkins... they don't take too kindly to the idea of being cooked and eaten.

My day today was spent converting an Excel spreadsheet with 625 realtors to several web pages which list each realtor individually, broken down by city and county, all found by clicking on a clickable map of Oregon, my lovely state. This means I have to reformat *every* *single* *listing*, even after I convert Excel to HTML.

It's boring, friends. And I'm not even close to being finished yet. So, think of me, diligently working my little fingers to the bone, without sleep, without food... without... oh, this is so sad... without reading uber.

*sniff* I'm so depressed. However, cash always makes me feel better. You can send your donations to.... just kidding. If you have a big itch to send money somewhere, a charity is always a good choice. :)

Okay, so I did watch Haunting of Amphipolis today (don't worry, no spoilers here). Twice. It was on twice in a row on two different channels. But I was working during both, I swear! Except when Gabrielle was on.......................

Um, sorry. Got a little of track. I can't wait for next week's show. It has Gabrielle in it. As always. :)

What's New:

  • The Bridge - Part 3 By FlyBigD posted at MaryD's (Beyond Uber Alt)
    Continuing story.

  • Our Reunion - Chapter 42 By Jenah posted at MaryD's (Beyond Uber Alt)
    Continuing story.

  • Strippin' By LB Anderson posted at Tigg's site (Beyond Uber Alt)
    Oldie-but-goodie. Stripper-with-a-heart-of-gold, Camp Fire Sadie, bumps and grinds her way deep into the heart of Slick, a club-owner who craves the real love of a woman. If you've never read this then what are you waiting for?!? Lots of crazy, interesting characters, lots of raunchy language, lots of the nasty... and just the right amount of true love. (Note: being added to the site in parts).

  • Another Time - Part 1 By LB Anderson posted at Tigg's site (Beyond Uber Alt)
    Oldie-but-goodie. The new battalion commander of the Elite Devil Dog Unit, Xora, sets her sights on the gunnery sergeant, Gabrielle. Follow this group of rowdy but lovable ladies through some crazy drama and hot lovin'! (Note: being added to the site in parts).

  • Haunted Past By LB Anderson posted at Tigg's site (Beyond Uber Alt)
    A Halloween tale. Professors Lane and Lawman are united with their ancestors to take on an evil spirit. Complete.

  • The Countess By LB Anderson posted at Tigg's site (Beyond Uber Alt)
    Halloween short story. Love at first bite. Complete.

  • Culture Clash - Chapter XIV By Malaurie Barber posted at her site (Beyond Uber Alt)
    Continuing story.

Sunday October 15, 2000

Random Ramblings (By Celine): I have nothing brilliant (hehe) to say today... maybe later in the next update. :)

What's New:

Saturday October 14, 2000

Random Ramblings (By Celine): How many pumpkins do you think are too much? Right now, I have eight. Most of them are small... two are bigger. I need a few more bigger ones to carve, too.

Short update... two stories to be exact. But they're both by great authors, so what we lack in quantity, we more than make up for in quality.

Uber News:

Uber bard Fantasy has a new web site called Fantasy's Realm, where you can find her stories all in one place. Check it out at: http://users.clarkston.com/galarneau/index.htm.

What's New:

  • Earth 2001 - Chapter 3 By Psylocke and Vaxen posted at Alternative Voyager and Xena (Beyond Uber Alt)
    Continuing story. *****Celine Recommends*****

  • Actions and Consequences - Parts 1 and 2 By Dragonjuls posted at her site (Beyond Uber Alt)
    Fourth story in the Destiny Saga: Old and new enemies plot the downfall of the bearers of the name Xianthos and their families. Despair, hope, compassion, forgiveness, love and tragedy are powerful mixes that tests the cornerstones of Catherine and Jace's commitment to each other and those they love. Continuing story.

    Friday October 13, 2000

    Random Ramblings (By Celine): So, it's Friday the 13th in my part of the world. I haven't seen any obvious serial killers wearing hockey masks around yet today, but I'll keep my eyes open.

    What's New:

    Note -- All the LJ Maas stories have Celine and/or Raven Recommends on 'em. Thought I'd put that here instead of typing it over and over again. :)

    • Tumbleweed Fever By LJ Maas posted at the Merpup Academy of Bards (Beyond Uber Alt)
      In the Oklahoma Territory of the old west Devlin Brown is trying to redeem herself for her past as an outlaw, now working as a rider on a cattle ranch. Sarah Tolliver is a widow with two children and a successful ranch, but no way to protect it from the ruthless men who would rather see her fail. When the two come together sparks fly, as a former outlaw loses her heart to a beautiful yet headstrong young woman.

    • None So Blind By LJ Maas posted at the Merpup Academy of Bards (Beyond Uber Alt)
      It's been almost 15 years since Chicago writer, Torrey Gray has set eyes on the woman she fell in love with so long ago. Taylor Kent has become one of the most celebrated artists in the country, and has spent the last 15 years trying to, unsuccessfully, forget the young woman that walked out of her life, stealing Taylor's heart in the process. Best friends forever, neither woman has ever been able to find the courage to speak about the growing passion they felt for one another.

      Now an unusual, but desperate request will throw the old friends together again, but this time, will either of them be able to voice their unspoken desires, or has time become their enemy?

    • Meridio's Daughter By LJ Maas posted at the Merpup Academy of Bards (Beyond Uber Alt)
      Tessa (Nikki) Nikolaidis is cold and ruthless, the perfect person to be Karę, the right-hand, to Greek magnate Andreas Meridio. Cassandra (Casey) Meridio has come home after a six-year absence to find that her father's new Karę is a very desirable, but highly dangerous woman.

    • Don't Ask, Don't Tell - Part 1 By S.K. Allen posted at the Merpup Academy of Bards (Beyond Uber Alt)
      A Military Tale of romance, two women bound by a common goal yet separated by a common rule: Don't Ask, Don't Tell. Their bond is like a flower among choking weeds.

    • Cold - Part 2 By Midgit posted at her site (Beyond Uber Alt)
      Continuing story.

    • Finding My Way - Part 1 By Mavis Applewater posted at the Merpup Academy of Bards (Beyond Uber Alt)
      When Stephanie begins her new career teaching history at a small New England University her well planned future takes an unexpected detour, when she meets Allison. Part one of five.

    • AB INITIO - Parts 13 and 14 By Cruise posted at her site (Beyond Uber Alt)
      Continuing story.

    Thursday October 12, 2000

    Random Ramblings (By Celine): We have a brand new artist and corresponding graphic to announce! A talented lady named Michelle has designed a new graphic for the Beyond Uber site (in other words, scroll up a bit :) ).

    Provided I didn't screw things up (which is always likely with me), I uploaded the right graphic. Raven, our dear editor, will correct me if I'm wrong.

    You can view her work just above the listings on our site. For Michelle's page where you can view more of her work, check out:

    http://www.mickyxena.homestead.com

    Calli (aka Linda, who made the top graphic on the site) and Michelle certainly make the page look very nice.

    In other news, I bought some pumpkins today. I now have one big pumpkin and... um, six small pumpkins. And that's just for starters. Anyway, one of the pumpkins hates me. It fell twice today -- once in the store, and once on the way home. It fell out of my scooter basket and went rolling down a hill. I felt like a dork chasing after the pumpkin, but I wasn't about to let it get the best of me.

    Besides, I paid a whole (US) dollar for it. I couldn't just leave it. :)

    Oh, and hey... I archived the September updates.

    What's New:

    Wednesday October 11, 2000

    Random Ramblings (By Celine): I may actually get around to archiving the September updates sometime tomorrow. Also tomorrow, a very nice addition to the artwork for the page. I'll post here when I actually get that accomplished. Today was spent working, darn it anyway, and I didn't get to play with the page.

    And I took a nap. It was either that or falling asleep at the kitchen counter.

    Uber News:

    C Paradee has posted a revised version The XO (see 'what's new' for the address)!! This is a very happy thing. Don't miss this wonderful story.

    What's New:

    • The XO - Revised By C Paradee posted at her site (Beyond Uber Alt)
      Revised version of an excellent story. A story about a career soldier and a new officer trying to deal with their increasing attraction amidst the taboo of such a liaison in the military. *****Celine and Raven Recommend*****

    • Serendipity - Part 16 By Rocky posted at Xena: To Uber Or Not To Uber (Beyond Uber Alt)
      Continuing story. *****Celine Recommends*****

    • When The Land Is Dark - Part 11 By Day posted at Daylight Stories and Bedtime Tales (Beyond Uber Alt)
      Continuing story.

    • Song of the Cradle By Kamouraskan posted at MaryD's (Beyond Uber Alt)
      Summary pending.

    • Instincts of Blue - Part 7 By Tammy posted at MaryD's (Beyond Uber Alt)
      Continuing story.

    • Night and Day - Chapter 13 By JuneBug posted at MaryD's (Beyond Uber Alt)
      Continuing story.

    • Star Dust - Part 2 By Loubug posted at the Athenaeum Archive (Beyond Uber Alt)
      Continuing story.

    Tuesday October 10, 2000

    Random Ramblings (By Celine): I don't have a darned thing to ramble about today.

    Don't all thank me at once. I don't want to clog up my mail box. :)

    It's a short update... I'm extremely tired, so if I've missed anything, I'll get take care of it tomorrow.

      What's New:

    • New Beginnings - Chapter 8 By MaryD posted at MaryD's My Little Corner (Beyond Uber Alt)
      Continuing story. *****Raven Recommends*****

    • Semper Fi - Part 1 and Part 2 By Larisa posted at Lynka's Fan Fiction (Beyond Uber Alt)
      Brennan Magdoon.. fulfills a life long dream of becoming one of the finest... join her as she enters Quantico to become one of the few and the proud.. and that is not all about being in the military..

    • Gossamer - Episode 42: Twisted Tails Posted at the Gossamer site (Beyond Uber)
      Lisa Hollingsworth makes an intriguing partnership with her brother-in-law. Dominique tests her capacity for tolerance during the road trip with Constance. Much to the detriment of her Hollingsworth foes, Abigayle gets fuel for her fire.

    Monday October 9, 2000

    Random Ramblings (By Celine): You know you watch too much Xena when:
    • You see a license plate with the letters 'XPW' and your first thought is, "They have two of the letters backwards!" This happened to me today... not once, but twice. I saw two license plates with those letters today, and I thought this both times.
    Not that this will deter me from watching, mind you. I just thought I would share.

    What's New:

    Sunday October 8, 2000

    Random Ramblings (By Celine): Yes, friends, I finally got to see the 6th season premiere of Xena (go Missy!), so I'm a happy camper. I won't talk about it since I know not everyone has seen it. But I liked it, I really liked it.

    And, aside from someone trying to push an entire table full of baked goods on me at a used book sale today, I didn't do much. Okay, so I did by two more Halloween decorations. But, see, I had an idea, and I had to get the gear to go with it.

    Other than that, I was too exhausted from my trip yesterday to do anything. So, I didn't.

    What's New:

    Saturday October 7, 2000

    Random Ramblings (By Celine): A brief update (as far as stories are concerned)... I have one story to share. Of course, a lot of people will be eager to read, so that's a good thing. In other news...

    My photos from the Oregon coast can be found at: http://www.specialweb.com/coast2.

    This is just a directory of the photos... there's no web page to go with them yet. The coast was fogged in, but I got shots of a bunch of other things. Sorry about the file sizes... I haven't had the time to fix them yet, but I will.

    I have other coast photos up, in full web page format, at: http://www.specialweb.com/coast.

    These are from a couple of years ago. There wasn't any fog, so there are plenty of the coastline itself... and of Keiko (of Free Willy fame) the killer whale before he left for Iceland.

    What's New:

    Friday October 6, 2000

    Random Ramblings (By Celine): And now for the questionably artistic portion of our program:

    To read uber requires time
    I want to read
    No, I need to read
    But alas, I just haven't the time

    My eyes miss it
    My mind craves it
    My heart is breaking for it

    Life sucks piggy wonks, my friend
    I need my uber
    So, give me my uber
    So my eyes, mind, and heart can mend

    I'm so behind in my reading! I have parts of Shell Game, The Bridge, and so much more to read. :( I guess the only thing to do is to drown my sorrows in my diet Sprite. Don't worry, I don't drink and drive.

    What's New:

    • South Africa By Anne Azel posted at MaryD's (Beyond Uber Alt) Summary pending.

    • Killing Time By Lariel posted at MaryD's (Beyond Uber Alt) Summary pending.

    • The Bridge - Part 2 By FlyBigD posted at MaryD's (Beyond Uber Alt)
      Continuing story. *****Celine Recommends*****

    • New Beginnings - Chapters 6 and 7 By MaryD posted at MaryD's My Little Corner (Beyond Uber Alt)
      Continuing story. *****Raven Recommends*****

    • Last Night By Lariel posted at the Merpup Academy of Bards (Beyond Uber Alt)
      Charlie and Emily are reunited after some time spent apart, and the two lovers spend the night together reliving their relationship. Will things ever be the same for them, when morning comes?

    • A Sacrifice for Friendship - Parts 2 through 4 (Beyond Uber Alt) By DS Bauden posted at the Merpup Academy of Bards Continuing story. *****Raven Recommends*****

    • The Vampire Hunter: Return of the Prodigal - Part 14 By Jp posted at the Merpup Academy of Bards (Beyond Uber Alt)
      Continuing story.

    Thursday October 5, 2000

    Random Ramblings (By Celine): People are stupid. Oh, not all people are stupid. Take you and me, for example. We're brilliant. But other people... other people are intellectually out to lunch.

    I went to the dentist today to have my teeth cleaned, because they said to come have my teeth cleaned. Once I arrive they tell me my insurance wouldn't cover it for another month or two, so I can't have my teeth cleaned. So they took x-rays instead. This is just the latest in their many blunders.

    *sigh* I think they just like to annoy me.

    You ask why I stay with this dental office? Um... it's good fodder for my ramblings? :)

    Uber News: We would like to remind or inform you, depending on your current state of awareness, about The Uber Xena List, at: http://merwolf.com/academy/ubermain.html.

    At this site you'll find uber Xena stories. In a list format. :) It's a great site, so go have a look.

    What's New:

    Wednesday October 4, 2000

    Random Ramblings (By Celine): Well, I have a big work project to do over the next couple of weeks. The plus side -- I should be able to buy a new computer because of it. The negative side -- I actually have to work. But I'll focus on the plus side, since that's a happy thing. :)

    Such is life. So, do me a favor and read some uber on my behalf, since I won't have the time, okay? Thanks.

    Fanfic News: Shadowfen's XWP Fan Fiction Index has moved to a new URL: http://shadowfen.com/ffindex.

    And, while I'm here, I'm going to go non-uber for a minute to recommend LJ Maas' conqueror story, "The Journey's End," at: http://www.art-with-attitude.com/artist/conqueror.html.

    It's a great take on the conqueror genre. The story's complete, and well worth the read.

    What's New:

    • Cold - Part 1 By Midgit posted at Midgit's Small Corner of the Xenaverse (Beyond Uber Alt)
      Lady Joanna is quite satisfied with her uninspiring lifestyle. But her life is turned on its head by a photograph in a gallery.

    • Exposure - Season 2 - Episode 18 By Fanatic and T Novan posted at MaryD's (Beyond Uber Alt)
      Continuing story. *****Celine Recommends*****

    • Shell Game - Part 4 By M Ryan posted at MaryD's (Beyond Uber Alt)
      Continuing story. *****Celine and Raven Recommend*****

    • Linger - Part 2 By Minerva posted at MaryD's (Beyond Uber Alt)
      Continuing story.

    • Silver Lining By Barbara Davies posted at MaryD's (Beyond Uber Alt)
      Part 3 (and possibly the final part) to her western uber series. *****Celine Recommends*****

    • On Raven's Wing - Part 6 Updated By Carrie Ryan posted at her site (Beyond Uber Alt)
      Continuing story. *****Raven Recommends*****

    • A Bad Penny By Fantasy posted at ForevaXena (Beyond Uber Alt)
      Sequel to Recovery.

    • Forest Elf - Parts 8 through 10 By J Falconer posted at ForevaXena (Beyond Uber Alt)
      Continuing story.

    Tuesday October 3, 2000

    Random Ramblings (By Celine): Nope, I didn't purchase any Halloween decorations today. Not that I didn't look, mind you... they just didn't have anything new.

    My father sent me his digital camera to use while mine sits in defunct (again, my fun word of the day) oblivion. I took it to the park (that's what people do who don't have kids) to take pictures of a covered bridge. You can view my not quite wonderful photography at:

    http://www.specialweb.com/da_bridge.jpg (big version)
    http://www.specialweb.com/da_bridge2.jpg (not so big version)

    If nothing else, it makes a decent Windows wallpaper.

    Uber News: Advocate's wonderful and funny uber, The Story of Me, has been published! To buy it, do the following:

    Go to http://www.iuniverse.com
    Do a book search by: author Advocate OR
    by title The Story of Me

    You can read this and her other stories at: http://www.btinternet.com/~a.e.c/melspage.htm

    What's New:

    • Undeniable - Part 8 By KM posted at the Merpup Academy of Bards (Beyond Uber Alt)
      Continuing story. *****Celine Recommends*****

    • Conversion By Warriorjudge posted at the Merpup Academy of Bards (Beyond Uber Alt)
      A lover affair between two nuns, Sister Gabrielle and Xena the Prioress, which takes place in a convent in 18th Germany.

    • The Lumberjack By Vree posted at the Merpup Academy of Bards (Beyond Uber Alt)
      A woman meets a lumberjack in the woods after an accident. They fall in Love. Songfic Parody.

    • The Fan By Lena posted at the Merpup Academy of Bards (Beyond Uber Alt)
      An obsessed fan goes after her idol with malicious intent. *****Celine Recommends*****

    • Taught By Love - Part 14 By Zoe posted at the Merpup Academy of Bards (Beyond Uber Alt)
      Continuing story. *****Celine Recommends*****

    • Fresh From the Road Kill Cafe - Part 16 By Carrie's AJ posted at the Merpup Academy of Bards (Beyond Uber Alt)
      Continuing story. *****Celine Recommends*****

    • Change of Heart - Parts 3 and 4 By Kawai posted at the Merpup Academy of Bards (Beyond Uber Alt)
      Continuing story.

    • Culture Clash - Chapters 12 and 13 By Malaurie Barber posted at the Merpup Academy of Bards (Beyond Uber Alt)
      Continuing story.

    • The Fellowship - Part 11 By K. Darblyne posted at Amazon Nation (Beyond Uber Alt)
      Continuing story.

    Monday October 2, 2000

    Random Ramblings (By Celine): I have a new printer on order, to replace my partially defunct (my fun word of the day) one. A big ol' fancy all-in-one style thang, so I'll get to replace my defunct scanner at the same time, and add a color copier into the mix.

    So, here I sit, surrounded by a seemingly room full of electronics, and more (the all-in-one thingie) will be coming early next week. You know what my main reason for wanting the printer? So I can print out fanfic, especially uber. Since my printer's ability to feed paper went to the great computers/electronics graveyard in the sky, I haven't been able to print stories, and therefore, haven't been able to read as many.

    This is seriously depressing, folks. But all will be well once again when the new printer whatchacallit comes. Until I run out of ink, that is.

    And I need something to keep me going until I get to watch the season premiere of Xena on Saturday (go Missy!!).

    What's New:

    • Fresh From the Road Kill Cafe - Part 16 By Carrie's AJ posted at her site (Beyond Uber Alt)
      Continuing story. *****Celine Recommends*****

    • The Fan By Lena posted at her site (Beyond Uber Alt)
      An obsessed fan goes after her idol with malicious intent. *****Celine Recommends*****

    • Falling - Conclusion By Web Bard posted at her site (Beyond Uber Alt)
      Conclusion. *****Celine Recommends*****

    • Culture Clash - Chapter XIII By Malaurie Barber posted at her site (Beyond Uber Alt)
      Continuing story.

    • Dakota By Ri posted at Wolfie's site (Beyond Uber Alt)
      A short western uber about a professional gambler finally meets the girl she's loved all her life. Cute story.

    • Strangers When We Meet - Part 1 By Ri posted at Wolfie's site (Beyond Uber Alt)
      Two women meet in a bar, and find they have more than a few things in common. Continuing story. *****Celine Recommends*****

    • Taught By Love - Part 14 By Zoe posted at Wolfie's site (Beyond Uber Alt)
      Continuing story. *****Celine Recommends*****

    • Linger - Part 2 By Minerva posted at her site (Beyond Uber Alt)
      Continuing story.

    Sunday October 1, 2000

    Random Ramblings (By Celine): Um. So, in the Halloween department, I just bought a skeleton mask and some more candy for the kiddies today. That's all. Nothing major. I can be a good girl for the rest of the month.

    Yeah, yeah... as if. I'm going to have to take over my neighbors' yards just so I can have room for all the decorations I have so far.

    Fanfic News: The Pink Rabbit Consortium has moved to a new URL: http://www.altfic.com. For those unfamiliar with the site, they host fan fiction for a variety of series, including Buffy and Xena, and have some awesome artwork to accompany many of the stories. Check 'em out.

    What's New:

    • Pimps...Signoras...Ho's By LB Anderson posted at Tigg's site (Beyond Uber Alt)
      Summary pending.

    • Cops - Chapter 14 By LB Anderson posted at Tigg's site (Beyond Uber Alt)
      Continuing story.

    • Strange Days Ho' - Updated By LB Anderson posted at Tigg's site (Beyond Uber Alt)
      Update to previously posted story.

    • Nightmare on Cherry Lane By Janice posted at Tigg's site (Beyond Uber Alt)
      A short story of a Halloween dream/nightmare which turns into something the dreamer didn't expect.

    • Through the Flames By Jera posted at Tigg's site (Beyond Uber)
      Summary pending.

    • The Bridge - Part 1 By FlyBigD posted at Tigg's site (Beyond Uber Alt)
      # 21 in the Plan D series. Continuing story. *****Raven and Celine Recommend*****

    • Mercy That Sadness Brings - Part 6 By Pallas posted at Shay's Playground (Beyond Uber Alt)
      Continuing story.

    • Gossamer - Episode 42: A Fork in the Road Posted at the Gossamer site (Beyond Uber)
      Abigayle Nguyen has a typical, but enlightening, visit with her parents. Kris Hollingsworth runs into an old friend. Dominique takes Constance into strange new territory.

    The Beyond Uber What's New from September has been archived