Oh, New Zealand. With your Hobbits and wizards, sheep, Peter Jacksons, glowworm caves and starry nights. Now you give the world this? Will your generosity ever cease?
Now now, before you start accusing me of objectification of the male form, casual sexism reversal, hey, I appreciate the human form in all its glory. If these nice gentlemen want to take off their shirts and perform a haka celebratory victory dance in the rain, who am I to judge? They are making the world a better place (fans self Southern lady style saying, "Oh my stars!" Dies of blushing).
So what lame excuse or rationalization can I write to show how football haka men relate to Old Ladies Raiding Guild? Cymre did a great write up, so I don't need to give away too many more notes. (She also nominated me for Liebster, and I think Navimie did too, but you guys know way too much about me already.) ANYWAY (*fanning furiously*) Oh yeah….connections. Relevance. Drawing conclusions and whatnot.
Okay- Old Ladies. So last night we tried it Horde side, and I'm sorry Tome missed it - I am sure she has some family needs (love to you, Tome). It was "interesting" to me how many of my battletag buddies jumped on board when it was Horde side. I was telling young leet druid that it seems that those on the Horde side have much more strong allegiance to Horde than Alliance does to Alliance. Has anyone else noticed that? Personally, I couldn't care less. What I care about more is when people say "I could care less." NO! NO I TELL YOU! *Hits you with a hard-bound grammar book* Anyway, as usual I gave everyone assist so they could invite friends, and some took me up on that. What I failed to do, because I didn't think it was necessary, was give everyone a run-down on culture norms. Not rules, not strict guidelines -- norms. Those unspoken expectations that need to be spoken, otherwise the chance of stepped-on-toes debuff and the chiding-matronly-voice spell activate and then people get cranky.
So, let me spell it out: if you bring a friend, please let them know this is a group of close friends, grown ups, who play the game in a different way. We do not rush through old content, we are a tour bus. If you act like Beavis and Butthead Do America and you're tagging along because "you're bored," please go find something else to do. But let me restate: if you're interested in getting to know some other amazing folks in and out of Azeroth, of seeing old and new content, of making your achievement and mog gear dreams come true, we are your group, and you're more than welcome. We have over 100 years of collective play experience combined, many veteran and heroic raiders in the group, who know this game inside and out. Please bring your knowledge, too, and kindness and sense of wonder. That's all you need to pack.
So: next Saturday - I want to do an Alliance run first through Firelands, Ulduar, and maybe one newer content, and then a Horde run if possible. Maybe we can start at 3PM for the Alliance side? I promised Amerpriest Ulduar, and I mistakingly thought she had a Horde character, and felt terrible that I disappointed such a sweet lady. Or, how about this? We do Ulduar Alliance next week, and then switch to Horde for some tasty Firelands gear? Kellanyx is now a red-head, and she makes no apologies for being totally hot. Just like those footballers make no apologies, either.
Ever experience a stretch of time where you're just out of sync? Not bad, not good, but decidedly out of sorts? These past few days I feel like I am walking snooze button. I just want to sleep. For a confirmed insomniac, this is more of a blessing than curse: at least I know I can still turn off my brain and feel all cozy and mentally journey into lullaby land. But it sure does make it tricky for getting to work on time.
I've taken to sleeping on the couch with my tauntaun sleeping bag with the electric fireplace running. My dog Snickers curls up near my feet, and I pretend I'm in the Tainted Forest, safe from harm in one of the little cottages, with a Dwarf sentinel standing guard.Yes, yes I am a grown woman and this is my mental bed-time story that helps me sleep. Now before you think I don't love CD Rogue anymore, I do. He has his own sleep issues, and those affect me. (This is a great myth of coupling, that you sleep together peacefully forever and ever - if there is a couple out there who can do that godspeed to you, but most of us mortals have not figured that out yet.)
Wait, sorry. This wasn't about me waxing philosophical about Tainted Forest fantasies and sleep deprivation. I'm just really tired, that's all.
Okay, back to us Old Ladies:
Shoryl started a list for us so we can get done what we want: http://tinywowguild.wordpress.com/2014/03/29/olrg-what-do-you-want/ Please comment about what's important to you. I just want to finish my Firelands achievements, get that damn bird, and not step foot in there again. I also want us to do more recent content (dare I dream? Dare I dream that we can kill Garrosh together?!) Next Saturday let's try some Horde stuff, and I'll tank on my Death Knight. I leveled Heartichoke by DK tanking, and I'd be happy to do so again. Remember, real life always trumps Azeroth, so never feelt a single twinge if you can't make it. See you Saturday, 4PM Pacific, and bring a Horde. Why not?
Never be too rich or too thin? Huh - well, perhaps. Since I am neither, I guess I don't have to worry about it! Whew! One less thing! And no, I'm not on any spring vacation yet, and have no plans for fun in the sun when I am. In fact, I'll have a quiet Matty-shack and a lot of time to clean out closets, drawers, bookshelves, and cupboards. I'm kind of overwhelmed by a nesting instinct right now anyway, and no, that doesn't mean what it typically does. I think women especially get this sense no matter their age or status of maternal bliss. For example, I am about to log on and clean up the Drunken Fish fish tank. It is a big silly mess. I'm looking forward to our Old Ladies Raiding Guild this Saturday, 4 PM Pacific Time. I would like to try Firelands again and get that stupid staff. (Did you hear that Fandral? I called it a stupid staff!! Like I want it....pffft!) And then I am up for some chieves. I am not sure what. If there is a specific thing ya'll would like to do let me know. Taking requests now - including putting on a cover-up.
Well damn - found out about other obligations last night, and even more two minutes ago. My time is not my own, but that's okay. It's what I signed up for. So, I won't be able to be there for an OLRG run tomorrow, Saturday, and can't guarantee Sunday either. You all know each other! You all like each other! You're welcome to do something without me (*sniffsniff*). I'll be around probably in the morning, but yeah…
This morning before I have to scoot I'm going to see if I can get a guild charter signed with our raiding team name. Now that raids are all CRZ…I mean hell yeah! Be on the lookout to start lowbies on my server. Cause I'm pushy like that.
"Hmmm….spam…Viagra ad…Nigerian Princess…Amazon tracking order has shipped new robes…OLRG info…"
A hearty cheer for the Old Ladies Raiding Guild! Like all evil pirate captains, I put a hook and sword gently to their backs and told them to tank or plank Mogu'Shan! Everyone got out of their comfort zone in class/role and did a great job! I discovered that a lot about who I am is an over-estimator of ability, while others may underestimate, so it all balances out! Sure, the Stone Temple Pilots, er, Guard, bit us once or twice, no biggie; we all have our rabies shots. I just know we can do more current content over the next few months, as well as slice through older content too. Funny thing about those raids: those monsters keep springing back up! And guess what?! We had Amerpriest join us too, and her friend Alf! How cool is that?!
Helke, Neo, Imraith, Tome, Prinnie, PlaidElf, Taikuuta, and my friend Señor - it was so much fun! We went onto Blackwing Descent and got lots of achievements and were reminded about 'dragon rules.' Dragons have fire and tails, and don't stand in either; if the tail doesn't leg sweep you, the dragon breath will kill you. Pack mints and Nikes.
So I may have mentioned on Friday morning I was at a FOUR HOUR PRESENTATION. Four. Hours.
Four.
Hours.
Someone brought doughnuts, which I am not a fan of, and fruit, which I ate, and Rice Krispy treats made with Easter-colored marshmallows which ended up making the rolled balls of sugar and cereal look like something the cat…never mind. They were really good. There was no coffee, and because my boss has perfected the debuff of the Stink-Eye spell when anyone is a minute late to anything, I didn't stop and get any, because you know, what if there was that ONE car in the Starbucks line whose mocha-dodo frappacinno was supposed to be cold, not hot, and I would get the Stink-Eye spell which cannot be dispelled under any circumstances (in fact, it's written down. Yes. Written. Down. In Permanent, Undispellable Ink), and okay after four hours of fruit, kitty-cat made Rice Krispy treats, and no caffeine, here is what I took away from the meeting (which occurred in the last 15 minutes):
The presenter gave us a scenario we had to solve in groups. Our groups brainstormed and came up with viable, creative solutions. She then walked around checking groups' work. To some groups she gave positive feedback, to others negative. The point of the exercise wasn't the content or quality of our solutions, but how we responded after the feedback. Our group's feedback was negative: she said our ideas weren't creative enough. My response in particular was defensive and disbelieving. Moi?! I am not creative enough?! After all the groups received feedback she gave us the big reveal, that the experiment was to see how we would react, and understand the power of positive feedback. We silly humans will walk on hot coals for those who perceive us to have value or worth to the group. Go figure. Stupid psychologists and their mind games.
Needless to say, the rest of the Friday was shot, and this weekend I've spent trying to recoup my sanity. The Old Ladies helped me do just that.
Speaking of mind games, look what I uncovered: http://www.wowprogress.com/character/us/whisperwind/Mataoka
A true hero does what he/she can: (Stick with this post - I'm getting to it.)
)
Where do I start?
Hmmm….
Okay - here. The other day Tome posted a tale of a troll, and I thought to myself, "Well, gee, haven't seen one of those in awhile! I've run hundreds of LFR, I glance at Trade Chat, and maybe it was an off-day."
No - the rumors of troll extinction are just that - rumors.
Take little Sajja into an LFR. First, all the undergeared players ('undergeared' being a relative term since her gear level was more than adequate for that LFR) were called 'welfare players' because of the 90 boost. Several players shared that yes indeed, this was their level 90 boost, but they had several level 90s, and had years of experience in Azeroth. So, there's the "poverty shaming." Nice. And then red flag: a Dwarf shaman (SHAME ON YOU! You are a disgrace to both Dwarfs and Shamans, you asshat) says, "I am the only one healing?" Sure enough, his numbers were over 190-200K HPS. I remember something Navi said in her recent post about healing being more like a pie that everyone shares - healing is not like DPS. I looked over his gear and sure enough, heroic and normal level gear through and through. (And very ugly mogging efforts, or no effort, too I might add.):
See my comment: I thank him for joining us and bringing his great heals. Hey, kill them with kindness is always my first tactic! It seems to disoriented trolls with the Misdirection skill. Alas, it was only temporary - he was determined to troll us, and show off his great skills, and chide us for how shitty we all were. After the third boss, and several "LOOK AT ME AND MY BIG HEALING STICK" I finally just said the comment below:
And then he said this to me:
Now, I could be classy like Tome and not name-names. But this expectation of privacy is a double-edged sword, Good Sir Lindriss. You may be a 13-year old boy who was just seeking some innocent troll fun. You may be a shy 28-year-old who's socially awkward. You may even be a sweet grandma by day, baking cookies and taking in stray cats, and want to live in a complete 180-fantasy world. I don't know. But the thing is, if you're going to be a troll, do it right. An early LFR is low-hanging fruit, and not worth your trolling expertise! Oh wait, maybe that's it!! Maybe these sorts of venues are Proving Grounds for Trolling!! Oh my God why didn't I think of that before?!?! They're honing their retorts and bait to groups who couldn't care less, just to feel that tingly sensation of typing asshattery on the Internet! (Happy 25th Birthday, WWW, btw!) I wonder if Bob and Tim had any idea about folks like Lind…anyway, no matter.
There is a word for folks like Lind:
SO - the Frog.
Please watch the above commercial. It says so humorously, so charmingly, what I would like to say about Azeroth: there are some things I am not going to do. I am not going to live out the Gringo fantasy and save the natives. (I might live out the Draenei fantasy, but that's acceptable.) But I am going to keep doing Old Ladies Raiding Guild, and we are going to see some new things together, or share recent things together. Saturday we'll start a 10-man in Mogu'shan Vaults - if I need to tank I will (ugh) but otherwise maybe I can get a volunteer. If it turns out we have more than ten folks who want to go, we'll see if we can get to 25 man or do this as an LFR. It really doesn't matter - because when we're together:
See you on Saturday!
Forty-Beats 7
Armando/Locos por Juana in a Zumba class:
Tome of the Ancient had a personal issue yesterday, and sent me an email that she couldn't make it. Before any of you worry, she's fine, her dogs are fine, her husband's fine, but send her good thoughts nonetheless. We really missed you! Dragonray from Azerothian Life joined us, and I told her CD Rogue has a rule that one must do a shot every time we hear an Aussie accent, and she does have a lovely voice! Speaking of lovely voices, we heard Helke too, and day-umm woman, she has a very sexshee voice! We did our usual rounds in Firelands, and Dragonray was kind enough to put her bear on and tank for us, and of course, no Penitent achievement, and no kitty staff. Fandral, you ass, you're starting to piss me off! No matter--we really do enjoy each other. Prinnie was there and sharing some of her…um…concerns…about….um….MATTY SHUT UP! You see, I am prone to blabbermouthery, so, Prinnie, whenever this thing you're working on works out, will you please let us know? Sending you good thoughts on laundry management and good impressions. Although, I say, be yourself. Your quirky awesomesauce is worthy of worship. Don't forget that.
Speaking of blabbermouthery, Ironyca posted one of her articulate, insightful posts not too long ago (nice to read you again, Ironyca!). It concerns privacy, or lack thereof, and the Internet. I wished again recently that we had an invisible mode in WoW, and I'm sure my friend Señor does too, because he was trying to play battlegrounds again yesterday and I kept bugging him. I admit, I was bored. CD Rogue had a cold and was working in his office, the cubs were doing their own things, and most of my WoW buddies were otherwise occupied. Unfortunately, WoW Insider reported that Blizzard will not be able to accommodate those of us who want to hide for a bit. However, I know the worst time to bug any of our friends in game is when we ourselves are bored. It's infectious. Boredom spreads like a bad cold, and unless we wash our hands and cover our coughs, we can do some real damage. I'll try to remember that next time a friend has another goal or project that doesn't include me--rather--try to remember my own goals and inner motivations.
I was thinking the other day it's not easy being an ambivert. (It's not easy being green, either, but that's another story altogether.) Who knows when I want to be alone, and when I want company? It means my personal whims and moods dictate to those around me, making abritary rules of when I can mentally play, and when it's a comfortable silence? Oh we silly humans. We'll never get it right, will we? /shrugs and gets more coffee
So my Lent list is going two-thirds well: I have the music, I won't play tomorrow (Monday), but the writing an hour on stuff other than WoW…no can do.
Forty-Beats 5: Wasted Sunday Morning - Sneaker Pimps (I hate Spring Forward)
Gosh almighty, give me one day off from work to go to see a doctor, fight pharmacists, and get laundry done and you'd think I'd won a gold medal or something. Yes, you see all the while I told you I was in Texas was really a cover for my Olympian figure-skating career--I was in Sochi the whole time. I only got the silver in the Women's "Rock that Hat" competition, but kicked ass in the biathlon! I mean, really, who doesn't love a woman who can ski AND SHOOT STUFF?
(I really do think this is an awesome event.)
Ladies, and Gentlemen, I hope you are around and free to go skiing with me in Firelands and…maybe…yes, let's…go Flex something. Why the hell not? Anyone else have some ideas, too? I'm open to suggestions - the main thing is I just want to see you all!
So: Saturday, March 1 4PM Pacific - till then, mi amigos/amigas. Till then...
Old Ladies: 4 PM, Pacific, Sunwell Plateau, and then back to Ulduar, perhaps? I don't know what it is but Dragon Soul makes people grumpy. Maybe I'm projecting. Popping zits on Deathwing's back, or the smell of Old Gods Spice is kind of gross. Let's go someplace pretty! Someplace warm! And places that drop mounts, like Throne of Four Winds or some such nonsense. Hey - when to Flex's start? Can we do the first ones of Mogu Shan Vaults and stuff? Give it some thought.
Whereby I explain my vision, my wish, my dreams for the Old Ladies Raiding Guild.
A retrospective of this week's pain:
Minigate Scandel:
This DK, this DK full of hubris and a blue sword, had us wipe about four times on Galakras. Normally, I never inspect tanks, I just don't. I don't really care. But when this young gentlemen said during the wipe in trash for the healers to do a better job, after the week of metric tons of criticism and heartache I had in real life, I took a wee bit of offense, and checked his gear. I was there on the beautiful, but foul-mouthed priest Zeptepi. And I swear, I said very nicely, "Look, I understand we're all trying to get gear, but don't criticize when you have a blue weapon." He told me that was why he was there. Now, why he couldn't go to ToEs, or ToT, and also try for something better than blue, I didn't bother to ask. He proceeded to get very defensive, and I just replied in my best customer-service-talking-you-off-a-ledge-hostage-negotiation-tone, "I understand." He kept bitching, until finally another player told him, "[she] is saying stop being a See You Next Tuesday and Love Yourself Vigorously and Tank." After all this witty banter, I did not have the heart to tell him it's "mitigating," not minigating. I can only call upon Mr. Snerguls so much in the world before others want to stab me in the eye with the Red Pen of Grammar Death.
Four wipes, we never once 'minigated' damage, and I didn't get my damn boots.
Laughing Gas:
Dethspec, for his name should reign mighty and supreme, had to shout to the raid when Kellda used her Macros of Cookies "It's always a good idea to take candy from a stranger" and had to show the LFR how incredibly FUNNY and SARCASTIC HE IS IN VERY BIG CAPS. Now this young player had his legendary cloak, and I was really wondering what he was doing slumming it in ToT with the rest of us peons trying to squeeze every last Titan Runestone from the cold, dead paws of Mogu. Deth, did I make you laugh? Did you get a good chuckle? Oh, awesome! Now come over here so I can slap you, you little shit. *POOF!* You are now a grease stain on the underside of a pigeon's dropping.
Not Quite Reading for Raiding:
Thursday night, I saw my buddy Turk on, and he had other obligations and wasn't planning on raiding. Also, my own cub's regular Thursday night plans were cancelled, so impulsively I got the bright idea to whisper my GM that hey, in the future, if he ever needed a fill-in for raids, I'd like to help them out. I really didn't think before I spoke, because I'm still trying to get a healing weapon on Mataoka, and haven't had a chance to reforge, etc. But all in all, I do keep four main characters hemmed, enchanted, and try to beg the RNGs for things they need: Kellda, Mataoka, Zeptepi and Momokawa. I f8cking hate Reforging. Wait, no. I don't hate it. I hate that it costs gold. Every shift in the wind, every time Chris Metzen farts, it seems my gear needs reforging. Why can't we get a punch card, say for every tenth time we get a free reforge? I know it's going away altogether in WoD, and I don't think that's the answer either. Grrrrrr…..
Anyway, I sucked. Log told me "it's not like Flex, it's different, don't stand in stuff or you'll be one-shotted." Yup, I know, but there is no way to know a fight until you do it. Not going to happen. No one learns how to drive a car unless they drive a car. No one learns how to read unless you have text in front of you. And no one gets out of foul steam if you don't even see it under foot. We did the Dark Shamans, and did finish, (no mace, of course) - first pull a really good hunter died right away. Later, I died and good have reincarnated but was waiting for Log to tell me to, in fact, at one point many of the players died. I just resigned myself to stay alive (I just read a really good raiding strat on this the other day), and was of course informed the tank out healed me. Yup. She's awesome. Really. I don't hate shaman healing, but after Disc and Druid, it feels too clunky sometimes. That and those big sausage fingers of mine. /sigh
Far and distant third...
Oh, a a great intelligent trinket dropped, and I needed on it for a split second thinking maybe this would be the turning point and go elemental. The druid asked me for it by saying "I thought your off spec was enh?" I just said it's yours if you want it, opened up a trade window and gave it to him.
I am leveling a litle priest named Kellrose. Kellrose is lovely. She will be disc/shadow from the get-go. She has two healing spells at level 20-21. Two. Just. Two.
Good sir, you died because you ran off and attacked a crab that pinched off your cojones and it made you grumpy. I saved you the clicking finger and as soon as you said this to the party, left you with your crabs. You're welcome.
To the Point: Old Ladies. My dear, sweet, awesome Old Ladies.
We are the oasis in the sewage of these players. We are the Valhalla in the scummy slums of life. We go, we fight, and we win. We don't yell. Nerd rage is not an option. We laugh. We make fun of the absurdity that is Azeroth. Yes, need on any mog item you want, but if there is something specific you want and you speak up, this group will oblige. I never want this to be the status quo for a fun-run. I don't want to speak for any of you, but for me-- my real life and a lot of my Azeroth life is hyped-up angst bullshit, folks taking themselves WAY too seriously at times, and if players such as Hanjizoe or Mr. Minigate, or Deth want to hear about TRUE pain, about the litany of people who experience horrific things, don't think for one second you will win with me. I'll go mano-a-mano with any of you verbally and leave you a destroyed wreck. I told a friend yesterday I am a mental paladin.
/sigh
Next Saturday, let's go to Sunwell and have some fun in the sun. How's that sound? /love
I'll even share my boyfriend with you, I love you that much!
The theme of this week's OLRG (Old Ladies Raiding Guild) is Tour Bus Style. In Azeroth, this world of Azerothian elites and "no gaijin" doormen, the OLRG is bound and honored to serve all of us who just want to see shit, and maybe, just maybe, make-out with Will Ferrel on buses:
But since we're all about breaking through, bustin' out, expressing our selves, dammit, let's shake things loose!
But - I have a big favor to ask: Can we try to get Momokawa's druid staff again, please? And I'll sit out for Penitent since my last click seemed to fail. And--can we maybe, just maybe try one of the first wings of Flex with my warlock, for Titan Runestones? She's so close…so very close…and if JD wants to bring his rogue to pickpocket stuff, that's cool, and maybe, just maybe let's go to ICC…
Anyway, Garrosh is hosting some parties, too, so perhaps all of you who enjoy the Horde side of things can meet up with him. He's having trouble with that paternity suit and all, and could probably use some cheering up. There are tons of mog contests going on, screenshot things, I still have a few ideas, and oh yea, got some Dear Matty columns I need to attend to, not to mention coin stories. In fact, about more than anything I wish I could stay home today. But alas, not going to happen. In fact, my job is stressing me out so much, I tried to raid (more on this later) last night, and looked up at myself in the mirror and the circles under my eyes were Stygian black. Maybe I need a dip in the Imperial Moat. Or an Old Milwaukee beer.
ANYWAY: See you all tomorrow, February 1, at 4PM Pacific. Can't wait!
Say "Mortals Are My Cheese!" Yogg! Knee-deep in Yogg-goo….don't ask
Mr. Snerguls here: listen readers, I gots a headache 8-miles wide, or 13+ kilometers for you metric majority…Matty has so many posts she wants to write, so many adventures to share, but she's got a full agenda in and out of Azeroth today, and she left it to my skilled editorial webbed fingers to sort it all out, so fuggedaaboutit, capiche? I can't promise to stay in character either so like a traffic safety study blocking a bridge, you can complain all you want but nuttin' you can do 'bout it. These stories are her scribblings, and man that dame got lots of scribblings'…more than a tapole spawn in an early spring…so here goes: The Little Mexican Store That Could…Not
There is a little Hispanic grocery store near where I work. It's hard for me to leave during the day, and even though it's within walking distance, I truly don't have a lot of time to leave. Kind of sucks. But thank you global climate change! A warm, soft day in January, and off I go to find pre-made horchata, and I had to buy some Takis for someone to whom I lost a bet. Takis are serious business, people. Don't know what those are? Turns out, two of my friends yesterday didn't know what those were either, and were not pleased when I teased them about it.
This is a bag of Takis:
Now some would say you'd have to eat them if you lost a bet, but they are delicious. When you're twelve. Anyway, off I go in search of horchata, the drink of youth, the elixir of the Aztecan gods, the nectar sung by the praises of Ozomatli himself! I went up and down the aisles in search of a canned version but all I could find were varying forms of Abuelita hot chocolate mix (which I drink all the time and it is EFFFING AWESOME), the Takis, and some amazing perfect bananas. (Must be having a potassium deficiency because I never eat bananas, but I have eaten every one of this bunch.)
Anyway, I go to check out, a young mother ahead of me with a toddler and baby in tow (what is that about kids? They turn to mountain goats and can climb steep candy displays with no effort, but take a nap? Not.) I ask the nice lady where it is, but my accent is so bad, so abysmal, I am not sure if I just asked for watery pantyhose or asked her out on a date. We get to the bottom of my request, and she points to a display around the corner, and I'm thinking there will be cans or bottles there, but no. I consider buying more bananas, but…she gets out from behind the cash register and points me over to the take-out food section where a rookie cash register lady is being trained by a veteran employee. Her make-up application (the vet) was epic. And this is where it gets dangerous, but I promise, I swear, no judgment. Really. Since I have been observing humanity from the time I could hold a crayon, I am fascinated by people watching. Women all over the world wear too much make-up. Bright blue and iridescent green semi-circles of eye shadow, dotted hot pink cheeks, red lip liner with pink gloss in the lines, and caterpillar-like false eyelashes. The thing is, like most of us women, we don't look too bad with a little spackle and paint, but too much is too much. Personally, I am a new woman with the right shade of lipstick, dark circle concealer and mascara. I was so mesmerized by the goddess I could not remember how to ask for horchata, and after several botched attempts at "rice water" "aqua de horchata" or "white water" they figured out they didn't have any, and offered the mango or guava juice instead. I chose those, but was too embarrassed to ask where the lids and straws where, and happily slurped my juice, open lid, walking back to work. I didn't spill a drop. Takis delivered, bananas eaten, and I figured I would just keep going back until I get it right, but yes, feeling like an ass that something so close to me felt so far away.
Ulduar, can you hear me?
The OLRG ventured into Ulduar yesterday, and it was really fun: Tome hadn't been there before, and it is spectacular. We are not so much a raiding team as a tour bus: but seriously, get out of our way. I'll do a post about next Saturday's potential adventures, and yes, am going to try to see if I can get my DK on the Horde side gear up a bit more, not that it really matters. I know some fairly OP players! Stay tuned, good folks!
Are you there, Old Gods? It's me, Momokawa...
her
Last night we went to see "Her." I don't have enough broadband in the world to begin to analyze the parallels between our pixelized lives in Azeroth and a man falling deeply in love with his OS. If I casually walked up to friends and said, "I"m in a relationship with my draenei and night elves," I would be hauled off to the looney bin. But I have as much said that, and I have been seriously judged, and oh well. It's okay. I do "love" them, and the stories/narratives I create: the subtext of the movie was how deeply imperative and urgent our life narratives are. I'm not suggesting I think the future of relationships, love, and community are bright--I'm saying it gets just as complicated and just as simple as ever. We all want love, we want someone to understand us, and not a single entity can be that for any one person. We need friends, lovers, mates, children, (ours or extended ad-hoc ones). I would love a deep conversation about this film with my Azerothian friends. You may or may not like what it reflects back to you, and at times made me uncomfortable. The pedestal we build, and the clay feet we smash…oh damn, getting too serious. If you want a lighter side, check out Jonah Hill's parody when you have a chance.
Okay, see whud I'm talking 'bout? She just goes on and on! I go out for a coffee and canoli and the next thing I know she's written too damn much! Bah, whatevs. Snerguls…out. Gotta hot date with a murloc in another realm named Samantha…she sent me a pic and she looks like this:
Sometimes, well, sometimes we wives, we get upset. We get disappointed. We get resentful, okay? We told him to go to the *@*#* store before it closes, we EFFING TOLD HIM, and he sat on his fat ass and went too late…and the next thing you know…
So squirrels, er…girls…and guys…I'll be around off and on. I should probably tell CD Rogue he might want to hide those squirrels next Christmas Eve though, just to be on the safe side.
The other day, something came in the mail from my uncle that left me speechless. No, actually, not speechless: I burst into tears with relief. It was kind of a big deal.
Then today, Helke whispered me to come to her server. I was hoping she needed help with something, something worthwhile (because hanging out with a friend is far more satisfying than trying to bond in an LFR). I just started an Orc monk with golden brown eyes and a mischievious smile named Gergas on Helke's server, and --she opened up trade…and….
OH MY SWEET BABY MURLOC!
A Sky Golem.
really
Now, to get to get a Horde character to level 80 or transfer away. Helluva lot easier than 6,500 stacks of ore. Damn, somebody catch me now!
Oh yeah, and the Seahawks are going to the Superbowl. In case you were wondering. Trifecta of joy!
Someone near and dear to me shared this with me awhile back, and I shared it on Facebook, saying it was my "corn kernel." One of my Facebook friends understood the reference. I love her all the more for that.
*watch the video
In the States, this is a national three-day weekend for government offices, and many employers recognize it too, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. Some states, however, didn't recognize it. The gravitas of Martin Luther King, Jr.'s contributions do not resound as deeply as they once did. We still have work to do. I've been reading Howard Zinn's A People's History of the United States. Let's just say Columbus Day never should have been a holiday. Nothing against the Knights of Columbus, mind you, but just saying.
But this post isn't about that. I have a three-day weekend, and I am selfishly going to use every minute to my personal, professional, and oh yes, Azerothian advantage.
Kellda + Cloak =Now.
Being at the Secrets of the Empire phase, Luperci dutifully went out and farmed some ore for her, (Mataoka's bags are too full, and Heartichoke can't fly yet.) Momokawa respectfully crafted trillium bars, and Kellda went in instance after instance seeking the Secrets. Not Victoria's Secrets, mind you: those are incredibly impractical:
For the love of God would someone please feed that starving child?
My warlock's been a bit off lately: however, in terms of gear, the RNGs have blessed this one bountifully--drops from Ordos rain down, LFR lovelies, and choices of swords, off-hands, and staffs abound. Valor points for upgrades? No problem. Like a VIP pass to a posh airport lounge, she has full access. But unfortunately, because of her human's slow fingers and sluggish hand-eye coordination, her overall damage is not nearly what it should be. Which may explain why, when seeking the assassination of one General Nazgrim, and the subsequent failure, she offered simple, direct advice of making sure adds went down.
And then a rogue simply, directly said to do more than 27K.
No need to be upset, my rogue! My rouge! My roge!
Oh, wait, what?! What?! Where are my damage meters? This is not possible! I'll show him! And sure enough, 28K, TYVM! I'll show him! I must have been chatting with a friend (yes, damage goes WAY down when in a conversation, but sometimes the chatter with friends is far more interesting than the pew pew), and I managed to get to about 93K, the General defeated, all was well, and only one Secret to go.
All this adventure, all this awesomesauce, while wearing the Pet Battle hat the entire time.
Ironman? Hardcore Ironman? I say here's a challenge: go into every LFR with a Pet Battle hat and fishing pole equipped, and see how long it takes to get kicked. I just thank the heavens for once, ONCE, I kept my big pie-hole shut. I should send Good Sir Knight Z an apology note for my stupidity. Naw, never mind.
Anduin, I adore you more and more.
I must have too much on my mind that I forget something as simple as a pet battle hat. In my mental clutter, I need to dust something off:
Whose game is it, anyway?
Most players would agree that it's anyone who chooses to have a subscription. But then, in many discussions and philosophizing, I sense some fracturing and splintering happening. Who should be "able" to have access to the legendary cloak seemed to threaten or alarm some players. Who should be made to play with other players, be social? Or, who should be able to have strong opinions, and who should not?
But all this sturm und drang doesn't matter a hill of beans when those who lead us misstep, on occasion. For Blizzard, two statements stand out for me in terms of a company spokesperson being off-mark:
"This isn't the World of Dresscraft" and "boys' trip."
He also says something about Thrall's story being too "touchy-feely." I know, right!? A character whose strength comes from his people and loyalties? Bah! Stupid Thrall. And Jainna?! Her whole world blows up, and all she loves dies, and she gets a bit angry, and folks start calling her a bitch? Come on Jainna, where's that pretty blonde mage we all know and love? Give us a smile, girl!
But no one cares about that sh*t. It's not Blizzard's responsibility to change the real world, is it? It's their mission to tell a good story, and by and large they do. Hmmmm. It does make me squirm a little bit that my hard-earned money sometimes goes toward someone who says things that make me feel uncomfortable in terms of my own values and beliefs. But I make the best decisions I can, and when voting with my consumer dollar, do the best I can. We can trace many products back to unsavory origins: I don't like Walmart, but I do like Target and Costco. Both have goods that may have been manufactured by workers who are not paid enough. Hell, there are social injustices all over the place! Damn, stepped in another one! Look out! There's one there, too! So if Mr. Metzen drops a few social landmines along the way, at least when they go off we can rez after a few seconds, and all is forgotten and forgiven. (CD Rogue knows, and every man knows, women…do…not…forget.)
Oh, damn, I didn't mean to make this a "very serious Matty" moment. DAMMIT! I'm going to go watch Doge feel better, because a world with flying lawnmowers and pretty dragons, it's all going to work out.
Poor little Grummle, getting his trail mix frozen...
And by cold, I mean head cold. I still feel a little bit punk: like I said, I never get sick enough to make it 'count,' just enough to be off my A-game. Temperature wise, tt's actually not that bad here now, and I think it's warmed up a bit in the middle of the nation, too. Apparently in Australia there are a bunch of Orcs and Tauren sitting on their fannies with no pants on. While I pass the mental eye soap, I really look forward to seeing you all and anyone who wants to join the Old Ladies Raiding Guild this afternoon, 4PM Pacific:
The Docket:
Okay - yes, I admit, though thoroughly burnt from Firelands, I would like to try to get the staff and the Only the Penitent achievement. Remember: put your pets away long before we get there, including warlocks', hunters', and mages' pets, and if Neo is there I'll let him call it out. I am going to watch the video Tome link a few posts ago again, too:
Then after that I have no agenda for today: it's up to all of you.
Do you want to try some of the first LFRs on the new expansion? Do you want to go to Sunwell? Want to go back to Dragonsoul and see what we can scrounge up some more achievements? Whatever you would like to do is fine with me. I just want that Grummle to be okay. (No, that's a lie, they bug the snot out of me.)
I am not great at the whole "this is the shared topic week" thing - not sure why. I'm usually pretty good at calendars, enumeration, and transitioning into the "big picture" view too. In any case, I received this e-mail (I'm registered on the feed, of course) about my Blog Azeroth topic, and it was for the week of January 4-10:
And, lo and behold, dorky me, look at all those great posts! I also realized that when I reformatted my blogroll a few months ago, some great blogs mistakenly were missed, and I need to rectify that situation immediately.
Reading the posts is a treat: they are well-written and thoughtful. And it made me think, the Old Ladies have an oath of sorts, too. Imraith joined us on her warlock, and our numbers tipped just over 10, so we were in 25-man mode, and struggled with the volcano-hot-foot chieve. My version of being a 'fearless leader' is in reality more of "nagging scold," I say, "Never give up! We got this! Once more with feeling!" Give up an achieve because of one wipe!? Balderdash. Drop group because you feel squishy? NEVER!
So, to the OLRG, a draft of an oath:
When the forces of evil unite
We Old Ladies are up to the fight
Warchief or King, stand aside
Mount up! Mount up! Onward we ride!
No beast or monster is too strong
No keyboard mishap can make us wrong
No backwards Matty-shirt
Shall make us eat dirt
Or bugged locked gate
Shall give way to hate
No RNG meddling, or mog drop missed
Shall ever take over our desire to /kiss
No silly achievement choreography
Will make us forget simple geography
We are here because we want to be
And unlocking fun, we all hold the key
We the Old Ladies
Shall persevere
To make Azeroth OURS
We ARE the cool-kids' table
And shall make it ours as long as we're able!
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