Theme: Go directly to JAIL - The last word in each theme answer is a slang word for JAIL.
17A. Song involving body parts : HOKEY POKEY. That's what it's all about.
25A. Driveshaft component : UNIVERSAL JOINT
41A. Gulped-down Mexican cocktail : TEQUILA SLAMMER
55A. Marker : FELT TIP PEN
48A. Synonym for the ends of 17-, 25-, 41- and 55-Across : JAIL
Melissa bee here.
We've seen this theme before, but it's always fun. Other possibilities: clink, can, cooler. Without googling, what is a prisoner's favorite punctuation mark?
Felt more like a Monday/Tuesday level to me, breezed right through it. Like i had one of these.
Across:
1. Lots of plots : ACRES
6. Blue : GLUM. I guess that's why they call it the blues.
10. Memo abbr. : ATTN. Attention.
14. Lewis's partner : CLARK
15. "Mona __ Smile": 2003 film : LISA. Starring Julia Roberts.
16. Actress Perlman : RHEA. Wife of Danny Devito, best known as Carla Tortelli on Cheers.
19. One of two on some wedding cakes : TIER
20. View : EYE
21. English Channel port : DOVER. Claims to be the worlds busiest passenger port. Surrounded by chalk cliffs known as The White Cliffs of Dover. Inspired both a song and a movie.
22. Particular : FUSSY
23. Staff addition : HIRE. Employee.
24. Business : FIRM
31. McQueen or Martin : STEVE
32. "The Bridge on the River __": 1957 Best Picture : KWAI
33. "Rather not!" : NAH.
34. Quote : CITE. Verb.
35. __ light: moviemaker's tool : KLIEG. Intense lamp used in film making, named after inventor John H. Kliegl and his brother Anton Tiberius Kliegl.
37. Hardy's "obscure" stonemason : JUDE. The last of Thomas Hardy's novels, tells the story of Jude Frawley, who longs to be a scholar. Inspired a tv mini-series in 1971, and a film in 1996 starring Kate Winslet.
38. Husband of Fatima : ALI. Fatima (or Fatimah) was the fourth of the Islamic prophet Muhammad's daughters. Ali was Muhammad's cousin.
39. Mottled : PIED. Having sections or patches colored differently and usually brightly.
40. "Gymnopédies" composer : SATIE. The Gymnopédies, published in Paris starting in 1888, are three piano compositions written by French composer and pianist Erik Satie. Very familiar.
45. "For __ us a child is born" : UNTO. Lyrics from Handel's Messiah.
46. Spoonbill's kin : IBIS. Scarlet Ibis.
47. Leave the cockpit suddenly : EJECT
49. Fawlty Towers, for one : HOTEL. British sitcom, i've never seen it.
51. Tabloid craft, briefly : UFO. Unidentified Flying Object.
54. Sports page info, e.g. : DATA. Specific clue for a non-specific answer.
57. Quibbles : NITS
58. Like some hygiene : ORAL. Yesterday it was clued as 'Word-of-mouth.'
59. Lasso feature : NOOSE
60. Sheltered, on a ship : ALEE
61. Hereditary unit : GENE
62. Ladies' men : GENTS
Down:
1. Dull pain : ACHE. Mainiac, still aching?
2. Be overly sweet : CLOY
3. Golfer's need, at times : RAKE. To rake the sand traps. And 12. Pro shop bagful : TEES
4. Poetic preposition : ERE
5. Execute a high jump? : SKY DIVE
6. "Lethal Weapon" co-star : GLOVER. Danny Glover. Also could have been Gibson.
7. Valley girl word : LIKE
8. Microsoft customer : USER
9. Kentucky Derby time : MAY
10. Maestro Toscanini : ARTURO. Finally have this one memorized.
11. "Now!" : THIS MINUTE
13. __ a soul : NARY. No one.
18. Small opening : PORE
22. Island country since 1970 : FIJI
23. Swarm's home : HIVE. Bees.
24. Standard : FLAG. Standard = any distinctive flag.
25. Functional : UTILE.
26. Avoiding off-topic posting, say : NETIQUETTE. Portmanteau of "network etiquette" or "Internet etiquette."
27. Path to ruin, with "the" : SKIDS
28. Dazzle : AWE
29. Low point : NADIR. Not sure i've heard this word before, the definition is simply the lowest point. Or, in Astronomy, the point of the celestial sphere that is directly opposite the zenith and vertically downward from the observer.
30. You, in a classic E.B. Browning poem : THEE
31. Sing like Satchmo : SCAT. Satchmo was Louis Armstrong's nickname. And 37. Jazz sessions : JAMS
35. Metric weight, for short : KILO. Kilogram.
36. Grazing field : LEA
39. Aniston's ex : PITT. Jennifer and Brad.
40. Like the Cheshire Cat : SMILING. From Alice in Wonderland.
42. Remove from its box : UNCASE
43. Chicken __ : LITTLE. The sky is falling, the sky is falling!
44. Help to perpetrate : ABET
47. "Show Boat" author Ferber : EDNA
49. __ and now : HERE
50. "The Good Earth" heroine : OLAN. Pulitzer prize winning novel by Pearl S. Buck.
51. Shortly following : UPON
52. Suffix with slug : FEST. Slugfest. Not my favorite -fest.
53. Breakfast tip components, usually : ONES. I suppose it depends on where you eat.
55. Brit's pea-souper : FOG. Not sure why the er is needed.
56. "Lenore" poet : POE
Answer grid.
Melissa
Answer grid.
Melissa
149 comments:
Good morning, Melissa Bee, C.C. and gang -
Today is considered an 'open day', but for we Corner denizens, it is reunion day. Here's hoping for a good turnout; I'm looking forward to seeing some of the 'old heads'.
As to the puzzle itself, I was evidently on Gareth's wave length 'cause this turned into a sub-five minute run. Didn't get the theme until the third theme answer, however. The only slip was misspelling 'klieg' as 'kleig', but 'awe' quickly took care of that. Lots of good clues; my favorite was 'Execute a high jump?'. Fun puzzle.
Melissa Bee, great job on the blog. I don't know the answer to 'the prisoners' favorite punctuation mark', but I hope you're not gonna say 'colon'. And what would be your favorite '-fest'??
Did You Know?:
- This blog started January 21st, 2008, blogging a Wayne R. Williams Tribune Media Daily puzzle.
- Yesterday's hit total was over 9,000; highest daily record is over 13,000. Remarkable.
- C.C. is a blog superstar. But you knew that.
Morning, all!
Not a lot to say about this one, but I just wanted to be sure and check in... ^_^
Good Morning, Melissa Bee and friends. This was a pretty easy Wednesday puzzle, but a fun solve. I figured out the theme before reaching the 48-Down Unifier.
We had both Erik SATIE and Klieg lights recently, so those were easy fills.
I believe this is the Royal Standard of the United Kingdom that is used by Queen Elizabeth.
NETIQUETTE was a WAG.
My only error was to think that Fawlty Towers was a Motel and not a HOTEL. Mere and Now (49-D) didn't make any sense.
Happy Turkey Day everyone. I hop, the weather doesn't hamper your travel plans. Enjoy the day with family and friends.
QOD: Be yourself; everyone else is taken. ~ Oscar Wilde.
MelissaB. the answer to your question is "."
Hello all:
Great write up MB (but please, cap your is!) Thanks so much to CC for great blog!
We do seem to be lacking in NETIQUETTE here, especially in my posts!
GARETH: Fun puzzle! Thanks!!
LEMONADE: Did you get my post late last night?
I am being driven a few hours away tomorrow for roast beef dinner. (Son afraid to cook a turkey!) I hope my s-i-l has room in back seat so I can lie down. Can't wait until everybody tries to lift me and wheelchair through front door (fearsome experience). (They wouldn't hear of my staying home. But the time has come as the walrus said…
I hope that you all experience a fine, Happy Thanksgiving tomorrow!!!
Melissa Bee, Wonderful write-up.
Thanks for links.
When the first theme was HOKEY POKEY I knew I was in for a FUN Wednesday.
Damn, these puzzles this week have been so good I can't wait to see what we will dine on tomorrow!
OK, at 3D, Golfer's need, at times, I put in TEES and then had to correct that err when 12D, was TEES.
Otherwise a smoooooooth ride.
Yup, I was SMILING when I finished.
Now I know a lot of y'all are traveling by car tomorrow so I'm curious as to what is the price of gas around our country.
SOOO ... how about on Friday you give your price for the 87 Octane.
Here in Tampa Bay, @Shell it is $ 2.799
When are they going to get rid of that "point 9" ... I'd pay $2.80 and not even blink.
(When I left Zagreb in July 2005 it was $5.25 per gal).
On a Thanksgiving note, I was told to show-up at 11:00am ... well there goes not seeing the Detroit game ... but Gal-Pal goes in at 5:00am to cook.
Being a Bus-Boy for 4 or 5 hours is a better job.
fermatprime, what's "cap your is" mean?
When you are writing in English "I" (first person singular) is always capitalised.
There, I've checked in.
Morning, All! Great job on the write up, Melissa Bee.
It's been a great week for puzzles. The enjoyment is over too quickly though since I've been able to breeze through them so far.
@Tinbeni, 87 octane is hovering around $3.03 (drop those .99999s!) up here in northern VT. I'm expecting it to go higher still before it levels off again.
The job (which I'm thankful for) has been extremely busy and I've been trying to finish several quilting projects but I've missed stopping by here in the mornings. Will try to drop in more frequently.
Hope everyone has a wonderful Thanksgiving Day tomorrow with family and friends and safe travels to those who are heading out of town.
Thank you C.C. for providing our daily opportunity to learn, share, and enjoy. Also a note of appreciation to all the constructors and the "solving crew" who provide the challenges and solutions that broaden our horizons, stir up memories, and allow everyone, whether a contributor or a lurker, to be a part of this community.
Happy Turkey.
Susie
Good morning. Consider me checked in.
Sorry I have no puzzle comments, but I wont see the puzzle till this evening. A busy day ahead after a three day road trip and before Thanksgiving travel tomorrow.
Gas along I-75 & 94 in Bob Segar country was $3/gal yesterday, $2.85 here.
In reflecting on our wordplay foray into DFland yesterday, I began thinking of the meaning of words and linguistics. CAW's gift wrapped softball (perineal for perennial) allowed us to have a little fun, and I thank her again for that.
But a bigger question is what words mean to
puzzler. I think one of the reasons (and I'm sure they're varied) many of us do crosswords is that we find wordplay and meaning fascinating. The facility of words to conjure mental images goes right straight to the center of what it means to be conscious. If someone says "cow" a picture of a cow appears on my mental monitor.
Likewise, I'm sure the mathematicians among us (hi Fermatprime) have the same experience with numbers. The only math I ever really "got" was trigonometry, because of its empirical nature, but I have a facility for recalling numbers. I haven't seen my high school
Girlfriend for 40 years, but I know her phone # was 606-564-3416. Then there is the serendipitousness of numbers.
I recently wrote a check for $64.96 at the farm supply store. I looked at the check and it was #6496. Sound familiar math majors?
Anyway, a long post, sorry about that, see you tomorrow.
Still visualizing triple D. Juvenile? Hell yeah, and approaching 65. Just another number.
Forgot to add, and can not say too often:
Thank you, CC.
Well, I didn't make Dennis' sub five minutes but it only took about seven minutes to do this one.
I agree with 'Colon.'
2008? It sure has been a long time. I don't get here as much as I used to but back in the day ----
Cap your is "Capitalize your "I"'s
Here's hoping everyone here has a Great Thanksgiving!
Good Day Folks,
Fun puzzle today, quick and easy. Favorite clue was "Driveshaft Component"/"Universal Joint" which any further discussion about can only go downhill so I'll end it here.
Being one of the newbies on this blog, I thought to express my feelings towards CC, the constructors, and all the participants, a short poem might say it best. After researching all my books and old texts for something appropriate, I found the prose in the G world.
Thanksgiving Friends
Thanksgiving is a time,
For reviewing what we treasure,
The people we hold dear,
Who give us so much pleasure.
Without you as my friend,
Life would be a bore,
Having you in my life,
Is what I'm thankful for.
Joanna Fuchs
Everyone have a great Holiday.
Peace
Hondo
Nope, Dr. Dad. It's period, like Hahtool said, because it marks the end of the sentence.
Let's 're-agree' to the policy this blog instituted a couple years ago, and one that made the blog the pleasurable experience it is today: We don't correct each other's grammar/spelling/word usage, etc. Everybody knows what everybody means, and if some aren't as skilled or as erudite as others, or make a mistake in typing a post, that's fine.
Agreed?
Hey MB, C.C,m Dennis Argyle et al., well happy day.
Cant really do puzzle, but it was great to see a nice early response from Dr. Dad and Susie. Come on down everyboday. Off to doctor soon.
Will check in later
Windhover
I learned, when I took Accounting 101, that I had this "gift" (or is it a curse) with "numbers" also.
I can remember my childhood address from where I lived in St. Pete at age 3. And that phone number. Mom said it was important to know the ph.# in case of an emergency.
Later when I went to College ... and the numerous trips to Jamaica ... "a number" had knew meaning.
Ergo, my fave answer today was KILO.
Thanks for reminding me to go back and read yesterdays late comments.
Good morning all.
I wanted to take the time to join in today and wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving. Haven’t posted in the last few months but do try to follow the blog as often as possible. Love the comments of all the “new” posters and enjoy “seeing” old friends. Cannot believe it has been almost three years since I found this site and still refer to it on an almost daily basis, A special thanks to CC for creating this site and all the wonderful and talented contributors who make it very special.
Both sons and their families are coming here for Thanksgiving so it will be a wonderful weekend. Turkey, PA Dutch potato filling, some vegetable casseroles, Copes Corn, and a variety of pies are on the menu. Younger son and his wife are flying in today from Houston, TX and will have to undergo the new scanning machines. Whatever you think of the new scans and body searches take a moment to look at this link. Anyone who watches “Mythbusters” will recognize Adam. oops! Not very reassuring.
Take care and have a wonderful weekend.
Boise Idaho is at $2.90 - $2.99 for 87 octane with 10% ethanol.
Good morning all
CC, thanks for creating this wonderful blog. I don't often post, but check this site daily. It is so much fun and you all are so clever and funny.
Loved the puzzles the last 3 days. Not much to comment on, but wanted to check in.
Thanks, and Happy Thanksgiving to all. Will be with my son and family in Chicago.
A slight tweak to what Dennis wrote:
DON'T USE ALL CAPS.
M.B. Great job. If I elect to continue to live, will you marry me - for a night or three?
Jeanie: Loved your Peking Duck thingy - but I use Plum Sauce instead of Plum Jam. Less sweet - because if you dressed the duck - it would be sweet enough. (I'm still stopping by on my way to Montana - like it or not). Also, I'm with you, in that all my food is orgasmic. I think you know the only thing I eat that comes in a box!!
Jazz; Ohio bleak? Ohio is where Jesus went when he "Left Bethlehem and went West." That's Bethlehem, Pa and west was Youngstown, Ohio. He's OUR DUDE!!
The "feather in my ear" was a metaphor. Those who know me - and Nurse Ratchet - knows where the feather is.
Time limits me to respond to Hay, Lemon, Lois (bless her sweet heart), and other Long-Timers. Just let me say this:
c.c. You have been a GODSEND!!! On this day (tomorrow) I will include you and all of our "bloggies" in my "THANKSGIVING" spurkey dinner. My sister "Cleareyes" and all of you have made my life a joy. THANK YOU, c.c. and all of the true acquaintances and FRIENDS I've enjoyed over these many years. I want to invite you all to a gathering of c.c.'s bloggers. I want us to meet in Kansas City and stay at the Hallmark Hotel and I would pay for all air fares and hotel charges. I would like that - but I don't have the f***ing money to do it!!
DREAM BIG OR GET THE "F" OUT OF TOWN!!
I'll return after I get this "Holter Monitor" off my delapited ass.
I must be off!!
Good morning Miss B, CC and solvers all. I think the LAT editors knew a lot of us would be too busy to spend much time on crosswords so they gave us a nice easy one today. It was pretty much a speed run except for a couple of screwups down in the SE corner, but once I saw the unifier and changed Tequilla shooter to slammer it all fell into place.
Our youngest daughter is driving down from Tallahassee to spend a few days. I'm sure I'll hear about the high gas prices when she gets here.
As we travel in countries around the world I always look for the local gas prices. I go through the mental gymnastics of converting liters to gallons and local currency to US dollars to get a comparison to "back home" prices. For the most part we have it pretty good. Most of Europe is around 7 to 9 dollars per gallon. OUCH!!
Happy thanksgiving to all and a special thanks to those that make this blog such a fun and informative place to hang out.
Hello everyone! I haven't had time to do the puzzles this week, and only glanced at yesterday's blog. I'll have to catch up when I get home friday. It looks like I missed a lot of stuff. I'm in nyc, walking my feet off! Thanksgiving dinner will be at the Waldorf - I can't wait! I hope you all have a safe and enjoyable Thanksgiving!
Good Morning CC & fellow DFs
CC thank you for all the countless hours that you have put in over the last few years to maintain the best CW blog on the net.
This eclectic group of miscreants is one strange family...but WOW what a family.
Life changes have made it virtually impossilbe for me to post. But I will always continue to follow the the musings of this group.
I wasn't here a the very first but joined shortly after start-up.
Hope all have a blessed Thanksgiving Holiday.
Good morning Melissa Bee, CC, et al., Excellent job, Melissa. Thank you for the links. Great stuff. That Satie is just what I needed this AM. A little too much celebration and 'tequilla slammer's last night. We gave the Hokey Pokey a new dimension as I recall..."Go Hokies!" had something to do with it...and 'pokey' was all about a 'driveshaft component'. The rest is a 'fog' but I'm 'smiling' and only my head 'ache's, so it's all good.
Dennis: love-fest. No surprise.
And CC you are my idol. Thank you so much for this wonderful 'little'
'Corner' of the world. You are 'awe'some and have kept us 'smiling' for almost 3 years. What an accomplishment! Thank you for everything.
Lemonade: hope all goes well at the dr's.
Happy Thanksgiving to one and all.
There's lots more to the Hokey-Pokey than just a silly song, from hawking penny scoops of Italian ice cream: Gelati, ecco un poco! (here's a little), to deception, from a magician's conjuration (hocus-pocus). The "jail," sense of Pokey is likely an alteration from pogie "poorhouse", nothing at all to do with the song or Italian ices.
Good morning all. Thanks Melissa for your informative write-up.
Found myself reasonably well on Gareth's wavelength. Easy but fun theme and the unifier JAIL helped get __SLAMMER and __PEN. UNIVERSAL JOINT was a gimme. Liked the clueing for CLARK.
MB: Thanks for linking to the photo of the White Cliffs of DOVER. It is one of the ways nature dealt with excess CO₂ aeons ago by binding it up in huge bedrock formations of carbonate rock.
Special welcome to Kath and Committed Asian Woman.
Consider this my muster response to Lemonade's request for today. This Corner serves a peer group who share a love of crossword puzzle solving and have many interesting things to say generally and to each other. Thanks to C.C. for starting and sponsoring this site and to all the lead bloggers. The fellowship of everyone is deeply appreciated.
Hope everyone has a happy and safe Thanksgiving.
good morning again, c.c. and all,
thanks for the nice comments. looking forward to a friendly reunion today - nice idea lemonade.
hahtool, you are correct, a prisoner's favorite punctuation is the period. anyone else know why?
wh: The facility of words to conjure mental images goes right straight to the center of what it means to be conscious. perfect. i had a long distance relationship during which it was the words that kept us together. i could scarcely experience my life without sending pieces of it off to him in a letter.
buckeye, yes.
fermatprime, as evidenced by this post, i rarely capitalize in non-formal communication. (i force myself to use initial caps in my guest blogs so as not to assault the senses of those who care about such things). it is a nod to e.e. cummings - i like the humility of it.
is everyone else starting their cooking today?
Good Morning Mellissa Bee, CC and All,
This wasn't so easy for me because my mind is in a FOG due to a late meeting and the couple extra Slammers it took to wind down. Spelling was my biggest problem. Got my first traction with Universal Joint and worked my way down to Felt Tip Pen which was a real struggle. I had Alee and Eject and guessed at the unifier which got the ball rolling in the north. Good puzzle.
Hard to believe I've been kicking around here since March of 2009. Thank you so much CC for what you've created here. Thanks for the efforts of our guest bloggers and also to everyone else, old and new for contributing. Not being much of a tech head, this is a unique and very cool place.
My hand is up for not correcting spelling, grammar and word usage. Hell, I know I could use the criticism but we could spend all day on one of my posts!
Melissa Bee, Great write-up and yeah, still a bit sore. Monday nights work out helped and tonight should remove the rest of the kink. Following my father's theory. If you keep moving, you won't rust up.
I have much to be thankful for and most of all, my new avatar.
Happy Thanks from my family to yours.
Oh goodie! I love weddings!
Good morning all,
First I'd like to add my thanks to C.C. for all she has given us. Many days go by that I would be totally lost without this group of friends to check in on several times a day. Living in the boonies of SW WI means there aren't a lot of fun things to occupy oneself other than the work related ones. I enjoy the intellectual stimulation of this group as well as the fun it engenders.
Melissa,
I also enjoyed the blog today--lots of nice music and I thought the photo of Dover was awesome. I wondered about the dark stuff on the shoreline. Pollution of some kind I expect, but the water looks clear and it wouldn't be coming from the cliffs. One of life's mysteries no doubt.
The puzzle was pretty breezy for me today too. the SW was slowest, both NETIQUETTE and NITS were WAGs, but otherwise a speed run throughout. I only "saw" the theme after the unifier.
Nice to see some of the "oldies" check in so far.
Welcome back to you all, and happy Thanksgiving to everyone!
Good day to CC, all her little helpers (seriously, I do appreciate all your hard work, insights and humor) , and fellow posters.
This is my requested pre-turkey check-in; no body scans required I assume.
Thanks Melissa. You really must watch the Fawlty Towers collection (only 12 were ever made) - but it's John Cleese at his very best.
And thanks for the picture of the White Cliffs of Dover. The beautiful yellow fields are "oilseed rape", one cultivar of which is used to make Canola oil, which we had yesterday. Canola is a portmanteau word for Canadian low-acid (oil), and also no doubt a useful marketing ploy. Rape Oil really doesn't sound very appetizing, does it?
When I first (as a child) heard the lyrics "There'll be Bluebirds over the White Cliffs of Dover, just you wait and see..." I appreciated the historical context, but (since there are no "Blue-birds" in Britain) assumed that the BLUEBIRD was some new-fangled American fighter aircraft that you chaps would bring over to help us down the Luftwaffe and Gerry in general. That would of course arrive in due course - the P-51 Mustang - a magnificent and worthy successor to the fabulous but short-ranged Supermarine Spitfire.
"Hokey-Pokey" is called "Hokey-Cokey" in UK (on the advice of a Canadian officer - Hokey-pokey meant a crazy-guy in Canada; and in the UK it has sexual connotations, related to hanky-panky no doubt); and I am told "Hokey-Tokey" in Kiwiland* (to distinguish it from a favorite ice-cream) The Brit-version includes a sort of Auld Lang Syne circular implosion but is much more dangerous, tending toward a stampede.
*God bless the miners and their families.
My OED reports that "pea-soup" and "pea-souper" were once terms for French-Canadian (people and language). It would surely be considered derogatory today. Any of you Canucks out there have any insights?
Gas prices for our "boutique" low-emissions product in San Diego North County are around $3.30 (range $2.89-$4.09) for Regular and ~$3.50 (range $3.15-$3.97) for Premium. The difference between Reg and Prem is so small these days that I generally use Premium - I think I would get better mileage, except Premium enables/encourages me to drive faster.
HT, NC
Good Morning MB, et al, After a brief hiatus for school network issues and a sick grandchild, I am back. Perusing the past days postings were great as I thought Bob’s erudite explanation of Occam’s razor was very timely around the JFK assassination anniversary. It seems that many that posit other theories are pushing a book or other vehicle for making money. If you have ever been to Dealy Plaza you probably saw one of Dallas’s cottage industries of people there selling pamphlets on “what really happened”.
The puzzle and the write-up brightened up this gray day on the prairie. After flirting with DEANO for Lewis’s partner it was pretty clear sailing. The 1804 – 06 expedition of those two gentlemen is well documented here in Eastern Nebraska with schools, lakes, marinas, etc. named for their trekking up the muddy Mo here. The only death on that trip occurred 60 miles north of Omaha and has a statue dedicated to that man Sergeant Floyd
Musings
-ATTN not ASAP
-Tequila SUNRISE also fit and am not familiar with SLAMMER
-USER and not PCER
-Gotta keep LEE and LEA straight and both visited today
-UPON and not ANON
I hope there are many postings today to celebrate C.C.’s founding and maintenance of this recreational and educational oasis.
didn't see that ronit already got the correct answer.
gas prices hovering around 3.20 in the bay area.
Good morning all just stopping by to say Hello and to thank C.C. for all the effort she puts into the blog.
I don't post often because by the time I've gathered my thoughts it's all been said.
Would like to wish all a happy Thanksgiving, As Dear Abby once said
Oh Heavenly Father
We thank thee for food and remember the hungry.
We thank Thee for health and remember the sick.
We thank Thee for freedom and remember the enslaved.
May these remembrances stir us to service,
That Thy gifts to us may be used for others.
Have a safe and happy holidy.
Good Morning Melissa B., C.C. et al.
Thank you for the write-up MB. If you have never seen Fawlty Towers, I say you must put it on your bucket list. It was voted as the #1 all time best show by the British Film Institute in 2000 ! John Cleese was absolutely hysterical, and the rest of the cast formed the perfect foil for his shenanigans. If you read the link at Wiki about the show, there are several uses of the word "whilst" - Clear Ayes' favorite Britishism ;-D
Hand up for putting "TEQUILA ShooteR" instead of SLAMMER, but other than that, it was a speed run today. Loved the HOKEY POKEY answer, and the theme in general. Not much else to say that hasn't already been said.
I too would like to express my eternal gratitude to C.C. for maintaining this wonderful site. Even though I am a newbie, I feel as if I have a whole new family here. Your daily jokes and insights keep me laughing and thinking all the time. Tomorrow when we say our "Thanks", I will put in a special one for all the posters here who make my life so interesting.
MelissaB, I thought a prisoner might like the "dash," especially a lifer with no end to his sentence. Good riddle.
I enjoy the blog, and comment once in a while. Happy T-day to all.
Husker,
I just saw a PBS (or History Channel?) special about the Lewis and Clark expedition a week or so ago. Très intéressant... I learned that the only death - Seargent Floyd - was due to a case of acute appendicitis !
Morning, MB, C.C., and all.
Today would have been a speed run, but I spelled NETIQUETTE with an "e" after "net" and it took some time to find the error. It didn't help that I didn't know the husband of Fatima. The rest went quickly and the theme was an easy one.
Hi to everyone, new and old. I haven't been here very long myself.
Need to get off and get DH started making cornbread for the dressing. The afternoon is tied up, so we have to get started this morning. He elected to buy a pie instead of making one. We are getting a dozen rolls from our favorite steak house, so that is covered, too. We are keeping it simple this year since we have a new cook.
Here's wishing you all a happy Thanksgiving and much for which to be thankful.
Good morning all. Thank you CC and all the rest of the daily bloggers. I enjoy the write-ups and comments and appreciate the time and effort that goes into our little corner!
Nothing to add to todays puzzle - a fun romp - didn't know "Jude" and I can never remember "Olan". What is it about those names that I just can't commit to memory, i.e. Esme - there are more, but I can't remember....
Thanksgiving is at our house. I made the stuffing last night, Husband takes care of the Bird, gravy, pies; Sister is roasting the Brussels sprouts with pancetta and Nephew is trying a new yam recipe. Maybe I can talk my daughter into mashing the potatoes! Our oldest daughter opted to stay in Ann Arbor for the holiday. She will be celebrating with a big pot of pasta gravy (lasagna!) and finishing numerous papers.
Life is good in Gilroy. I'm wishing everyone a happy and food-filled holiday.
Easy puzzle today, as many of you have already noted (11 minutes).
Just one comment on PIED (multi-colored). The fabled Pied Piper of Hamlin (Germany) was likely based on a true tale--only not about rats but children. Apparently, many of Hamelin's children joined the disastrous Children's Crusade of 1212, in which a number of them trekked off toward the Holy Land filled with religious zeal, only to be led away by various unscrupulous types who ultimately sold them into slavery. Some artistic depictions of the Piper show him in mono-colored dress, suggesting somebody didn't know the meaning of "Pied."
PIED PIPER
Best holiday wishes for everyone. If you're on the road, keep safe.
Of course, the Pied Piper's original contract in the tale was for rats, but he ended up taking the children. In the photo I appended to my last post I like the way children and rats have been rather neatly combined.
Happy Thanksgiving to ALL of YOU!!! Thanks for this blog...it's my daily vitamin!!!
Gas Addendum - $2.79/gal will fill you up here but I have a strong memory of $8.00/gal gas in Rome. We saw many bikes and tiny cars along with beautiful women on Vespas! Even Police in Assisi drove Smart Cars . St Francis would approve!
Forgot before: gas here is $2.859, but got some at $2.799 Monday on the way to Madison. It seems that it differs in price depending on which direction we head out of town. Hard to justify in such short distances.
Hi C.C. - Melissa bee and all:
Fast trip through puzzle-land today. I did trip up on a few clues, but the perps took care of them.
I don't understand 53D (ONES???)
I had never heard NITS used that way. I have heard of "Nit Picker" but thought that referred to someone picking baby lice off each other or just picking on someone's perceived faults.
We were at 16 degrees this morning (5:30) and now are all the way up to 22!! At least we are under clear skies and have no snow or ice on the ground :)
Gas in Portland is anywhere from $2.90 to 3.10 depending where you get it. Costco has it for $2.69 last time I looked.
Looking forward to seeing former posters here today, hope you lurkers check in too.
Hi CC, Melissa and gang -
Wel dun MB! (There's an exclamation point at the end of my sentence!)
Eye, 4 1, promice to not korect any 1's smelling oar gramma.
Garth's puzzle are always special for me, since I've blogged 4 of them - and two of Dan's. Lots to be thankful for. This one left me SMILING, not GLUM.
PIED is how I feel after desert, and if i had it all to D'OVER, i might even have more of it.
Like the G-LOVER (That's me - the LW is Gloria)/ D'OVER cross.
Buckeye - You're right, of course. I gnu i could turn to you for true Ahia wise-ity.
Didn't notice the gas price when I was out this a.m. but it's been in the $2.90 - 3.00 range lately.
Well, happy day y'll. I'm thankful for the LW, 11 grandchidren, music - and this blog and all you corner denizens.
Cheers!
JzB
Happy Thanksgiving to all~~!!
Just adding to the blog, as requested, but also to make some quick comments...
Had THOU instead of THEE, and since i was not familiar with JUDE nor SATIE, couldn't find my mistake.
I thought "dash" might make sense for the riddle, too, but "." is a much better answer.
Gas prices, Suffolk County, out on the end of Long Island, NY;
depending on location, $2.99-$3.19 (+.009), and about 8cents higher if you don't pay cash money - which is a crock, if you ask me, since a debit card IS cash, and far more convenient; but that's the station owners argument...it costs them money to run the cards.
Once again, Happy to all, and dinner is at mom's for us.
Richard M., A.K.A.
Splynter
Good Morning C.C., Melissa Bee and all,
Melissa, Thanks for your super write-up. Hands up for Dover!
Loved Gareth's puzzle- diversity of fill; colorful and zany theme entries. Easy and lots of personality involved. Thanks.
Thanks, to C.C. and her main stalwarts,who keep things hopping around here. I'm a "newbie" that loves this spot ; I am drawn to it not only after cw, but throughout the day. The posters feel like family and I have to keep in touch.
Lemon, thank you especially for your energy in this project today; hope your doc visit brings good news.
Have a nice day everyone and a Happy Thanksgiving to you.
Fermatprime,
I saw your comment this morning, and your eye woes clearly are awful. I pray for them to hold for you. However, it is doubly wonderful day for me, as my eye pressure is responding to the medication (they did not tell me how really hight the pressure was until it started coming down) and we already have heard from RAZZ, Crazyhorse, Jeanne and Mariposa, and many other infrequent freqenters of the corner.
Nice Cuppa, I am sorry, but I am sure I speak for Dennis, Argyle, JzB, Al when I say we reserve our right, as staff, to conduct necessary pat down searches and body scans to preserve the morel integrity of this site, and while I do not speak for C.C., I believe she and MB would keep a hand in that policy.
Buckeye, I do look forward to being there for your three day wedding with MB.
Have a wonderful morning and I will check back soon
Thank C.C., all the constructors and you guys who contribute. All of you seem to be very clever and supportive people.
The weather is cold for this area; lows around 42F. Gasoline is higher than most places; around $3.20 in the Los Angeles area. Hand up for Fawlty Towers. If you enjoy John Cleese and British humour in general, it's not to be missed. You can find most of the episodes on YouTube.
I hope everybody has a great Thanksgiving and may your breast be moist and tender.
Buckeye and Melissa - is it a 3 day wedding or a 3 day marriage? Would love to attend the ceremony, I'll bet it would be one for the record books. Nurse Ratchet could be the brides maid (matron, if anyone would have been brave enough to marry her). Chester Drawers could be best man. We would all party down at the GBRH.
BTW, we are 2.78 to 3.03 here in the sunny (80) south; and baby benjamin is growing
Good morning everyone.
Thanks for a great write up, Melissa Bee.
This was a nice easy one. Had to look up the spelling for tequila and wait for the perps to let me know what kind. Had felt tipped before I finally figured out 53D.
I am addicted to this blog. And I am so grateful to C.C. for creating it and keeping it going so well. Also Dennis who keeps things in shape. It's interesting to me that we no longer are so DF. Only occasionally, and it's all good - as Lois says.
There have been so many surprising connections too. Someone who also lived in Socorro, NM. Another Unitarian. And Clear Ayes who has a Schipperke, which was my favorite and last dog.
And all the happy birthdays are a great addition that Dennis keeps track of.
Cheers and a happy Thanksgiving to all on this blog, old and new.
KAZIE : The dark beach below the Dover Cliffs is not caused by pollution - it is black quartz, which is initially part of the cliff (it forms streaks in the white sandstone). But as the cliffs erode, the sandstone is washed away, while the heavy quartz remains, forming the beach. That is my understanding at least.
LEMONADE: You make these pat-downs and scans sound quite exciting. How bad must I be to get one?
NC
I forgot before ..... Gas prices in Central Ct presently range between $3.03 to $3.25 for 87 Octane.
Some filling stations add between .04-.06 cents per gallon if you pay by credit card, which I do.
C.C. and all:
This blog is awesome. I have been doing crosswords for many years. First as my grandmother's "eyes", then later on my own. Over that time I have learned alot, but I had also only memorized some other stuff. I didn't know(or even cared) why that "part of Q.E.D." was always ERAT; "British gun" was always STEN and "baseball brothers" was always ALOU(just kidding...I knew that one).
My point is that the explanations here and the stories told have helped me to improve my skills substantially! I no longer just memorize crosswordese but actually learn it.
Thanks(for)giving me the enjoyment.
Happy Wednesday Everyone!
Thanks, Melissa Bee for your blog. I'll have to check later for the links as Elton John's song kept me company while reading.
This was a fun run; I was on Gareth Bain's wave length from the start which hardly ever happens in his Thurs., Fri. puzzles.
Hand up for THOU before THEE and I wasn't sure about JUDE but it made sense with JAMS. I've never had a TEQUILASLAMMER but I love Margaritas.
Cute theme, too, and I knew period at the end of a sentence is the prisoner's fav punctuation but you early birds knew it too.
And now my thanks. I am so very grateful to C.C. for creating this blog, thankful that I stumbled upon it and thankful for all you posters who keep me mesmerized, charmed and informed. I have had a lifelong passion for words and puzzles (well phrased Windhover) but never anyone with whom to share so this is a godsend.
I wish you one and all a joyous Thanksgiving Day with your family and friends and if you are traveling, stay safe.
Yesterday I paid $2.7399 for gas but across the street at Shell it was #2.859.
Have a bountiful Thanksgiving Day!
I am quite sure there are many other constructors who feel as I do about this community. Grateful.
Good morning all.
Thank you to C.C. and gang and the constructors. You are appreciated.
Random thoughts:
Occam's Razor from Monday - I heard a phrase (NCIS maybe?) something like this: "If you hear hoofbeats, don't look for zebras".
I memorized my 16 digit driver's license number 40 odd years ago; why I do not know. I still remember it, even though it was changed 30 years ago.
Gas here in ND is @2.75.
We had 12" of fluffy snow Monday. Today and tomorrow we are to get a few more inches and 25 to 30 MPH wind. Yippee. Snowblower will get a workout.
25A took me back to 9th grade homecoming dance. My first date, my first dance. The band was "Universal Joints". I didn't know how to dance then, and still can't, but my 10th grade date (hand up for older women; married one) was very kind. Thanks, Deanna.
No Thanksgiving hoopla for us. Our small family is scattered this year. One and only son out of town to meet girlfriend's parents.
I do not post often but I try to read at least some of the posts each day. Thank you regulars. You all help to get the day started.
Happy Thanksgiving and be safe.
Hello everybody. Happy "Lemonade714 Day"! Checking in to express warm greetings to you all. It is a great pleasure to be in your company and to exchange viewpoints, opinions, experiences, and tidbits of knowledge with you. Best wishes to you all.
Thanks, Lemonade, for suggesting the wonderful idea of making this a reunion day. It's been great to catch up with "old friends".
I left retirement back in September and took on a new job that's been massively time consuming, but I'm loving it. I still do the puzzle daily and read the blog, though I just don't have time to read all the comments on a regular basis.
Thanks, C.C. and all the guest bloggers: this site has been a great way to wake up the mind in the morning when the coffee doesn't do the trick. I first started doing crosswords after watching the documentary "Wordplay" but it wasn't until I discovered C.C. and her site that I became addicted. So many genuinely nice people visit here. I am grateful for all of you. Happy Thanksgiving!
Thanks to all who contribute to this blog. Your comments have made crossword solving, an already enjoyable pastime, even more pleasurable.
Dennis: Correcting grammar, spelling, or word usage, if done to edify should be acceptable. Done maliciously, it should not be tolerated. We would not have had the entertaining banter yesterday if this rule were strictly enforced.
Windhover: KILO and universalJOINT revealed a mini-theme.
A joyous Thanksgiving to all!
Yeeay, I got to show my name if not my face - I still have got to figure out this 'avatar' thing and the blue hyper-text.
I finished the puzzle ( a few mistakes, but who cares ?) I had Felt Tipper, instead of Felt Tip Pen, Thou instead of Thee, and Gateu instead of Satie ... thats it. Good enough for me.
I came to this site, late last year, in frustration, because I couldn't get a word on a Monday puzzle ... and serendipity - I 'found' an actual community ... and I was entranced. I started the post out as a complete disaster, with no netiquette whatsoever, and put all 3 feet in my mouth ! I have reformed, without having gone to Jail - and am hopefully a better person now. I am leery of blogs, ( this is the only one I ever visit ) and yet, I feel I am in some sort of tenacious little multi tentacled 'family'.
I figure we are mostly baby boomers, with grandchildren, some retired teachers ( who else would solve xwords ? ), VERY good in the language and vocabulary and puns and all that ... but I think , I worry, that this like coin collecting and stamp collecting is in the hands of a dying profession - and in 20 years ... maybe, will exist no more. Have a safe, kind, grateful, Thanksgiving and be nice and tolerant to all our fellow beings, atleast for a day.
The story I heard about the Pied Piper is that the city fathers agreed to pay him for getting rid of the rats. They reneged, so he took the children and sold them into slavery.
Carol, I think the reference to the breakfast tip is that breakfast is usually a cheap meal when eaten out, so the tip would be less.
We buy gas at Sam's, which is usually 5 cents or more cheaper than anybody else's. It has been a good two years since I filled up myself, so I don't know what the per gallon price is. All I see is the total on the credit card statement.
My comment addressed to Windhover was meant to be for Tinbeni, who commented that KILO was his fav answer for the day.
Hi all.
It took a little longer than five
minutes but I didn't have to read all of the clues. Perps filled in some ans.
Special thanks tomorrow for C.C.
and the blog.
Buy gas about every eight weeks.
Drive less than 90 miles/month. Jill will drive to San Mateo tomorrow since she gets twice the milage that I do. Use Rotten Robbie as station of choice. Think it was $3.11999 the last time.
Take care.
Thanks to all, C.C., and her lovely, Capt. Dennis - who keeps Law and Order, and maintains the peace ( or is it 'piece', WHover ? ).
Hahtool, like your favorite author, Oscar Wilde, words touch us in the most intimate ways, even more passionately than the TSA - rhymes !! - long after we are gone, and on this day, I thank God, Fate and Karma, that there are a set of intelligent people in this country, that I can somewhat relate to.
Melissa Bee , thanks for the wonderful blog on the puzzle - did I say puzzle - WHAT puzzle ?
Thanks to Jeannie for the Peking duck or Beijing Duck ( why cant they make up their minds ? ) recipe, - just add a half dozen Scotch Bonnets peppers ( Scovill index factor - 1 million ) and the duck will completely burn up ( spontaenously combust - ) on the inside as well.
Lemonade said 'I am sorry, but I am sure --- when I say, we reserve the right --- to conduct necessary pat down searches and body scans to preserve the 'morel' integrity of this site.( My parenths )
Freudian slip or what ?
Now, is it for good moral purposes or to preserve Dennis ( the Morel's ) rear end ? :-D, lol, ;-)
BTW, God bless you Dennis - I have visited sites with blatant foul ( fowl ?)language - that I have never visited again - so thank you for keeping the piece, err peace and making this site worth coming back to.
Blogs are like restaurants, Return Customers are absolutely crucial to their success.
Quick Thanksgiving eve check-in as per Lemonade's request.
Fun and very easy puzzle for a Wednesday and loved having a Dan Naddor yesterday...lots to get done today, and yes, Melissa, pie baking a food prep today plus the housecleaning we skipped yesterday to spend time with kids and granddaughter who won't be here for Thanksgiving this year.
Still do puzzles most days and read the blog part some days and a big shout out and thanks to all who have taken over blogging and to C.C. for creating this wonderful space that has given so many hours of enjoyment.
Happy Thanksgiving to you all.
Good Morning, C.C., Al, and All.
Lemonade, here I am, ready to be counted. It looks like you're having a big response to the gathering today. Over 70 commentaters already! What is the total membership? Does anybody keep track?
Haven't read the blog yet and it will have to wait until after lunch as I've an appointment at 11:30, but I did think the puzzle was easier than a lot of the Thurs. puzzles. Unless mine are all wrong, but I don't think so. No lookups but help from the perps, but that's the way it's supposed to be, isn't it?
I see there's no title but I caught on to the 'jail' bit early on. Unusual for me.
See you later, dodo
1
I thought this one was easier than Monday or Tuesday for some reason. Good job on the blog Melissabee! I notice you had a shout out with “swarms home”- hive (bee). I had never heard of a “Klieg” light and didn’t know Satie, but they were all gotten via the perps. My favorite clue was “execute a high jump”- sky dive, which incidentally is on my bucket list. Netiquette was new to me also but I think that’s a great word.
Funny, but Dennis and Drdad had the same thought as me for a prisoner’s favorite punctuation mark.
Mainiac from last night, the only boxed item I have in my pantry are various kinds of good pasta. Otherwise it’s canned tomatoes, fish, and artichoke hearts.
My favorite counselor, I am happy to hear that those drops are working.
Buckeye, the offer stands for you to visit when in route to Montana. I’ll leave the light on.
I started contributing to this blog in July of 2008 under the name of Cokato. I have seen a lot of people come and go. It’s good to see some of you back if only for a day. I am waiting for Linda and Tarrajo to chime in. You too, PBJ and xchefwalt.
Thanks to you C.C. for creating such a wonderful meeting place. I have made many friends through this blog. Everyone enjoy your get together’s tomorrow. For those of you that may face horrible weather, be safe.
Dodo,
I wrote a list of names a while back of people who had posted more than once, and it was over 150 names. Still waiting for Embien, Tarrajo, g8terxmom,KQ, my skating fishy, little Lo and others to come by. WM, you also made my day, thanks. As Dennis points out,, there are between 7,000 to 13,000 hits on this site DAILY!! lurkers abound!
John L. you out there?
xtulmkr, you make a good point about corrections, and Freudian slips are always fair game. Outside of those, however, the problem is separating the 'good' from the 'bad' (condescending, malicious, etc.). Who makes that call? One person's intent to edify can be construed as a shot by the recipient. No, I think it's far better to just say let's avoid corrections, or if you really feel the need, send an email.
Happy Thamksgiving to everyone.
I liked Math so much that I most of my electives in Math courses to get "A"s so as to help my GPA.
Gas here Colorado Springs is around $2.85.
Hello friends in Crossword Corner, and a happy Thanksgiving to you.
I’m checking in from California, where I’m visiting MB for the holiday. I’m a little partial to her blogging, but I do appreciate the efforts of Argyle, Lemonaide, Al, Jazz, and especially our hostess, C.C. - I vodka you. 9000 hits per day?! You are amazing.
I drove here from Oregon, where I paid 3.45 for 87 octane. Didn’t even look at the price when I refueled in California, since I had been driving 6 hours in driving rain, and had to stand in the rain to pump my own gas near midnight. (Nobody pumps their own gas in Oregon.) I know that last sentence is grammatically incorrect, but I like that way.
I don’t have any real talent or facility for numbers, but odd numbers do stick. I remember my first telephone number - TEnnison-1700, and my California driver’s license number. And certain birth dates of people I no longer keep in touch with. Memory is a funny thing.
Sally, I’m at least one person who also lived Socorro N.M. many years ago. I went to Jr. High school there.
We’re having ham tomorrow. I had a great adventure getting it. I bought a hog’s leg from a local farmer and took it to a meat processor to have it smoked. I’m such a city person that I had a little trouble seeing a hoof and a tail on our future dinner. I am reminded that real food comes through sacrifice, both from the pig and the farmer, and I’m grateful.
I hope you all have a wonderful, peaceful holiday.
Okay, here goes, best I can do under the circumstances:
BarbB, KittyB, PMT, RedStateDemo, Sandbridge Karen, JD, MJ, Calef, Hayrake, All Gravy, maria, Crcokett 1947, Tobylee, Lola, RichShif, Moon, Martin, TFrank, Lola, Elissa, maria, sea-she sheila, nytantonimo, Jimbo, Carlos D'osete, our hawaiin contingent, c'mon, any help out there?
Way back in the day, when I was a kid in Toledo, our phone number was TAylor 1255. (Yup - only 6 digits.) Later it was changed to OXford 1-1255. I think I was a freshman in HS when phone numbers went to all numbers.
Cheers!
JzB
My parents original phone number was just four digits I think and a party line as I remember. But then it changed to FA-0333. My grandmother out in the countryside, accessible through a long distance operator, was 71W. A party line too.
Happy Thanksgiving to ALL!!
Yes. Jeanne, today's was easier than Monday and Tuesday.
Just wanted to check in and say thank you for all the great learning
experiences and the opportunity to share with all.
I still do the xword most every day and read all the musings from the bloggers. And, thank you so much to CC for creating this monster. It has been fun to follow.
CY'all Later
BTW, gas here 3.15 9/10 as of yesterday.
Haven't been out today. It could have gone up another 3 cents!!!
Todays puzzle seemed more like a Monday's until I got to "netiquette". Never saw or heard the word (or term?) before, so could not make any sense of it, so it threw me for a loop.
Per the Lemonade, am stopping by to say "Hello", and to thank CC and all who helped to create this blog and have worked so hard to keep it going, informative, educational, interesting, and entertaining. I usually stop by each week day afternoon to check my work and to see how the crew is doing. Seldom on weekends due to complexity of the puzzles and lack of free time.
I have missed the lady from Sandbridge and the young single mother with the huge crop of zucchinis, and especially the musings of Buckeye. He is my favorite. Has been great to see his smiling face again in the last few days. I wish him well.
Wishing to all a pleasant Thanksgiving and week end.
Old Sage in Virginia Beach
Good afternoon C.C., Melissa Bee, and all --
I have been doing crossword puzzles since I was a teenager. I love the challenges and the learning experiences! Then I found the LAT online crossword puzzle and this blog very early this year. I have been lurking here since then, but want to comment today.
THANKS to C.C. for creating this blog. Your accomplishments are amazing!
THANKS to all the contributors who share the work. I appreciate all the hours and the effort you put into making this blog so great.
THANKS to all the bloggers. Your diverse backgrounds and experiences make this blog an enjoyable experience every day.
Sometimes I learn why an answer is the answer. Sometimes I link to an article that explains an answer in depth. Sometimes I link to a photo of something I have heard about or read about, but never seen. Sometimes I link to a youtube video of a performance. Sometimes I just read friendly banter or wordplay. But always I learn something or enjoy myself.
THANKS to all who make this blog great!
Oh, forgot. Gas here in SW Ohio is mostly $2.85, up this week just in time for the holidqy.
You little children!!! I remember picking up the phone and saying, "Hey, Sarah - Get me Andy".
IMBO
p.s. Buckeye Bob
In my part of Ohio we get our gas from beans!
IMBO
Hello everyone,
I am checking in too. Great to hear from all of you. Lost Internet connection for sometime today. But guess what? I got to talk to both Dennis & Santa. So sweet!
BTW The first thing I ever said on a telephone was' "Watson, I need you".
IMBO
Hi all, just giving a shout out to all of you per Lemonade’s nudging. I will try to catch you all up on the life and times of Tarrajo and Bradyjoe later tonight. I love this blog and now that winter has arrived maybe I’ll have more time to commit to it.
Hello CC and all
A very good afternoon to you.
This blog has been a part of my daily routine for the last 2 years or so: THANK YOU to all!
However work has kept me busy and I have not been contributing :(
(In case you are interested, following is the product that I am working on:
Watch me working )
Thank you Lemonade for organizing this re-union.
Happy Thanksgiving to you and your loved ones
-Moon
I've been doing crossword puzzles since was a kid (I'm old school-- on paper, in ink} but I'm a newbie to this blog. I'm mostly a lurker and I've learned a lot (sometimes even about the crossword puzzle) just sitting back and "listening." Thanks CC and to the rest of you! Have a wonderful Thanksgiving and safe travels to all.
Btw, gas is $2.90/gal here in southwestern Nebraska.
How exciting to have so many crossword and blog fans check in today. You have been missed, Tarrajo and Moon, and all you other lurkers.
Gas in southern LA is running between $2.72 and $2.80/gal.
The interstate is wall-to-wall at the moment. Glad I am not traveling today. I hope everyone gets to their Thanksgiving location with no problems.
It will be a very warm Thanksgiving for us ~ temperatures in the high 80s. I had to retrieve some summer clothes again.
MelissaBee, i LOVE your blogging.
i am Giving Thanks for your blog C.C. and congratulations.
Bill G, thank you and i am hoping mine is too ;)
Lemon, standing ready......
Happy Thanksgiving all.
Not much of a contributor, but certainly a faithful watcher.
I do want to be numbered among the faithful, and to thank CC for her entertaining and enlightening blog.
Thanks and hugs, too, to the amusing, thoughtful, kind, sly, erudite, inventive cohort who brighten my world every morning.
Good day to all!
Thank you, C.C., for creating this awesome blog, and thank you to all who guest review! Thanks, as well, to the constructors who chime in from time to time. Your input is greatly appreciated. This is a wonderful site, and I enjoy the community.
I'm house and pet sitting for a couple of weeks without regular access to a computer, so I have not read the blog in about a week.
Fun to see some "friends" from the past checking in today. Bill G., nice to see you back, as well.
Wishing a Happy, and Blessed Thanksgiving to all!
Puzzle easy for a change
Good Afternoon All, We just waved "Bye" to our unexpected three day guests. Their intention was to hit Yosemite for the weekend and stop by chez Clear Ayes this morning on their way to So. Cal. for Thanksgiving with their son and fam. With all the rain, they decided to change their plans, take their chances and crash with us. Fine and dandy. She is my best old friend, going back to high school, so they were more than welcome.
Still and all, no puzzle time and now we are getting ready to head to daughter's house early in the morning to get our own share of Thanksgiving-ing. I'll be back on Friday and catch up then.
So this note, thanks to Lemonade's reminder, is my "hello" to all of the long-ago-and-far-aways. We've missed you and hope you stop by again. To all of the current regulars, you have made my day more than once and got me through some tough times (and continue to do so). To our "shy ones", just remember, we don't bite...at least not too often or too hard, so come out, come out, wherever you are. New friends are always welcome.
I hope you all have as much to be thankful for as does the Clear Ayes family! Happy Thanksgiving to all of you and have a wonderful holiday.
This was an easy crossword puzzle, thanks.
Everyone have a great Thanksgiving weekend, be safe.
Hello Everyone ~~
I discovered this blog in early spring of this year and have been happily lurking ever since. Although this is my first time posting, I look forward to checking in here every day. My thanks to C.C. and all of you who make this blog such a wonderful place to visit. I know that each day I will learn something about the puzzle and about life and will be given many reasons to smile. After Lemonade's invitation, I thought that today would be a good day for me to come out of the shadows. ;-)
Wishing you all Thanksgiving blessings ~~
Linda
Hello Puzzlers -
Late to the party, been busy with all that pre-Turkey Day stuff. Will have to read all the posts later!
Just wanted to check in and say my thanks to C.C. for thinking up Crossword Corner, and for having the tenacity to keep it thriving as it does. I'll venture a guess that it has grown beyond her expectations!
Thanks also to all you associate bloggers for all you do in keeping the machinery going. Thanks to Rich and his talented cadre of constructors for keeping the grist in the mill. And to my fellow crossword faithful, thanks to you all for your contributions to this fun little society!
If I don't "see" you tomorrow, Happy Thanksgiving, one and all.
Happy Thanksgiving to all!
Special thanks to CC for creating this wonderfully friendly blog which welcomes solvers of all levels of skill.
As a constructor this site is great barometer for what works and what doesn't. It continues to be a fun and valuable resource, so thank you to all for your tireless contributions each and every day.
Hey everyone, save some room for my Thanksgiving puzzle coming up this Sunday! You will need it when you start to solve. Heh heh.
Just another relative newbie lurker (no further modifiers needed) checking in as requested. I happened upon this blog quite by accident several months ago when I googled an obscure clue in a puzzle and was led directly here. I read the blog and all comments faithfully everyday (after working the puzzle on paper in ink). I've dented many a V8 can on my forehead when finding some of my mistakes!
Was a little bummed this morning as my monitor died last night and I had to view the blog and comments on my iPod Touch. I'm too clumsy to type on the silly thing, so had to wait until I replaced the monitor to make my comments.
I'll add my accolades to the bloggers, constructors and participants. I feel like I know you personally and enjoy your comments every day. Thank you all for adding something so educational, fun and entertaining to my daily existence.
Cheers to one and all for a warm and peaceful T-Day, hopefully surrounded by those you love.
Gas in Central CA is $2.999 per gallon last time I looked.
Nice Cuppa,
Thanks for that explanation of the black sand at the foot of the White Cliffs. I did notice a streaking in the chalk too, and wondered after posting. It's good to know the facts.
For 40D too many letters for grinning "like a Cheshire Cat." Describing a mischievous person.
Hello CC, bloggers, solvers, constructors, lurkers and old friends.
I'm going to savor this reunion just like Dennis suggested for Dan's last puzzle. It's fun to hear from so many of you.
Gas in Chicago is $3.14, though we got it for $3.02 on Sunday, before the holiday boost.
We're cooking ham with all the fixin's tomorrow. Down to a family of 3, 2 of whom don't care for turkey, we've simplified life. Pumpkin pie is my favorite part anyway.
I do the puzzle on paper/in ink on a break at work. By the time I get home I usually don't feel like posting a comment, but enjoy reading where the banter has taken the blog for the day. Saturday is my best day for posting because on Sunday I bog down in the Tribune's puzzle island, 3 cw's, sudoku, jumble and their newest time sink, quote acrostic. Yes, I love puzzles, both word play and numbers.
I hope you all have a safe and warm holiday.
Xtulmkr, Lou. is my hometown.- lots of time there with family and friends,etc. You don't look old enough to be retired,but your name phonetically tells me you were a toolmaker. Is that 'tool and die'?
auto? I'm pretty ignorant on such things. Good to see you here, again. I always look for you and decided to speak up when you emerged again.
Hahtool, Southern LA? Louisiana or Los Angeles? 80 degrees tomorrow?
Ca, Thanks for the lump in my throat! You are so special and your post just shouts it again. We are so lucky to have you....
Mtnest995, I, too, use paper and ink- too old to change- please join us in 'blue' Welcome
John Lampkin, Can't wait for your Sunday snack. Bring it on!
Back, atcha, Dudley.
LaLaLinda, Am happy you're joining us today. I waited a long time ,too. Much more fun.
MPK, Welcome!
Tarrjo,You disappeared right when I joined.
Laurie, Yeah! welcome.
Moon, how fascinating I want one.
I usually have nothing to contribute witty or otherwise, but I read you guys almost daily.
My thanks also to all of you and the things I learn or chuckle about or both.
Just my husband and one daughter tomorrow. I am cooking a turkey with the usual but not going all out.
Gas at Sam's in Santa Fe--$2.799 a couple days ago.
Supposed to be really cold tomorrow--maybe even snow.
Again, thanks to all of you.
Hola Everyone, A fast, easy puzzle today and one that was finished before my daughter arrived at 9:00 A.M. to help with the cooking.
We prepped and cooked, washed dishes, cooked some more, set the table, then washed more dishes. I think I'm done for today, at least. The house smells yummy and it isn't even Thanksgiving yet.
I'm so pleased to see all the lurkers and old timers who have checked in today, especially Moon. We've missed you at our CA Coven get togehres. We'll have another one soon and hopefully you can join us.
I just wanted to thank C.C. for our great blogging family. A big thanks too to the weekday commentators, and for their elightening information every day.
I too, lurked for a long time, then jumped in. I'm so glad as I've made internet friends, and some of those have turned into face to face friends--such a blessing.
A very Happy Thanksgiving to each and every one of my friends here on the blog. I'm Thankful for all of you.
Hi again,
Just want to be sure to thank C.C. for this wonderful blog. I have made friends here that would not have been possible anywhere else.
Thanks also to all the wonderful, talented constructors who make us laugh, cry, hit our heads with V-8 cans, cheer and generally feel so smart when we finish what they have worked so hard on.
To all the people from the past that showed up today, it's so good to know you are still around. We know it's not always possible to find time in your busy lives to comment but we enjoy it so much when you do.
Hope you all have a wonderful day tomorrow and don't worry about calories - it's just one or two big meals, you aren't going to eat that way the rest of whatever, so enjoy!!!
Talk about transposing letters in our words. Togethers looks better spelled correctly!! I proof read, too.
Tarrajo, I had to buy zucchini to make our favorite for tomorrow, Zucchini casserole. Our summer crop has been long gone.
Last week I paid $3.19 for gas at the station near home. This is the San Jose area of CA.
Tarrajo, good to see you again. You too Moon! Looks like an interesting project you are working on. You guys were on my list of wannasee's. (Linda, I know you are reading this). Xchefwalt, PBJ, now it's your turn. I had one helluva time getting home tonight and am glad that I am. The main roads were okay, but more than once I put 'er into low 4-wheel to go through slush on those pesky side roads, which is most of my drive. I hit the grocery store for last minute stuff. I wanted the freshest produce available and am in the midst of roasting a head of garlic for the screaming heads, and chopping up onions and celery for the dressing. Wine and spirits are stocked and I don't have to leave the house until I have to work :( on Friday.
Everyone enjoy your day tomorrow, I know I will.
Howdy All:
I'm just swinging by to say hello and to wish everyone a great Thanksgiving.
Apocryphal story re: The giving of thanks: As the number of days ahead of him grew fewer than the years behind him, Leonardo da Vinci climbed the tallest mountain he could reach, to chat with the Wise Old Sage.
He told her "I've pretty much excelled at every craft I could think of: painting, sculpture, music, architecture, plus a little science too. Somehow, I feel like there must be some art form left for me to challenge myself with..."
She nodded at him, smiled beatifically, but said nothing. She fished out a scrap of flimsy paper from her pocket,handed it to him, and waved him off to descend the mountain.
Halfway down, with the view of the city shining in front of him he pulled out the note, which read:
"The most difficult of all arts to master is the awareness and expression of gratitude."
+-+-+
With that in mind, I want to thank CC and her A team of co-bloggers for setting up and maintaining this wonderfully enriching site.
Gratitude goes out also to Rich Norris and the constructors who continue to provide us with challenging puzzles that provide entertainment, challenges, and a use for our V-8 cans!
Finally, I'm grateful for the many fellow smart, witty, soulful, kind solvers I've come to know here. Even though I'm rarely able to solve these days, I do catch up on posts when possible, and hope to get back to solving as soon as possible and getting reacquainted with old friends -&- meeting new ones!
Happy and enjoyable Thanksgiving to you all and your families/ friends.
pjb
Tarrajo & Brady Joe
Boy do I know what you mean ... "now that winter has arrived" ... damn, it only got up to 80 here today in Tampa Bay ... with "zip" humidity.
Part of me thinks they moved "our Bay" to San Diago.
Hope you and the "little-guy" enjoy a Wonderful Thanksgiving ...
Hmmm, maybe a bit of fishin'?
Xtulmkr
Well the "doobies" must BE great ... I missed that "UNIVERSAL JOINT" thingy entirely ... OK, not entirely ... but I'm more an Avatar guy in the States.
To all ...
Boy did you miss a FANTASTIC Sunset here tonight on the West Coast of Florida ... I toasted you all ... probably to excess ...
(Then WALKED home).
Creature, my hometown is actually Evansville but I have lived in Louisville since I was six years old. I took an early retirement ten years ago after 35 years as a tool and die maker for General Electric Appliances.
Tinbeni, indulging in the "mini-theme" could lead to spending time in the puzzle's major theme. I now abstain.
Xtulmker:
Hope I got that right. Hello, brother. I sold ten of the best years of my life (way too cheap) to IBM as a tool maker. Loved the work, hated the damn job. If you didn't hate it, it wasn't really a job. They ran me off in '76.
Okay, just a short synopsis of our lives. Brady Joe (now 11) and in the fifth grade continues to make this Momma proud. With his homework assignments I feel like I am always playing "Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader". So far, so good as I re-learn as we go. Our zucchini crop was much less this year as we learned our lesson NOT to plant a whole row this time. Our fresh is gone, and all I have left is 3 loaves of zucchini bread (Jeannie's) recipe that is in the freezer. Chickie, I am curious about your zucchini recipe. Was it mine or Jeannie's. Probably Jeannie's. Our tomato crop was good and we canned alot, as so was the fishing as we have about 4 freezer bags of fileted fish in there. They are mostly Sunny's and Bluegill's and just one bag of Walleye filets as we eat those up as fast as we catch them. Ice isn't on the lakes-yet but it isn't far behind. My Dad is going to give us a portable ice house to use this year for Christmas. I changed jobs (better opportunity) doing just about the same work, but closer to home. Biggest catch this summer was from Mom...6lb 7oz large mouth bass caught on a crawler and small hook. I let Brady take it off as it kind of freaked me out with the teeth and all. Still looking for Mr. Right though.
Tomorrow, Tashajo (my identical twin) for you newbies is coming down for Thanksgiving, bringing Zoe Jo (born 1 mo earlier than Brady), and the triplets to my home for the weekend. I can't wait to see her, and of course Brady can't wait to see Zoe. He's not so keen on those 3yr old triplets. I am just trying to figure out where to put everyone as I only have one guest room. Parents get that and Brady decided that he can pitch his tent for he and Zoe and the triplets can take over his room. Good thoughts to all of you, and I don't know too much about some of you, but if you are in angst, take care.
Shout out to Kazie, Lemonade, Jeannie, Lois, Dennis, C.C., Anon who mentioned me earlier, Carol, and anyone else that gave a flying fart, that I showed up today. It means a lot.
Greetings C.C., Melissa and everyone,
I feel like I'm really late to the party, but as I was about to blog this morning, my daughters literally kidnapped me.We got pedicures.Then, of course, there is the fun with the grands.
It has been wonderful to hear from so many, AND MOON...it was fantastic actually SEEING you in that presentation. I'm sure UMI will be in a future xwd.
Barb B, there is noooo way I'd be comfortable with the foot AND tail still on the pig. But then, I don't want the head on my fish either.
Surprised at how easy words flowed today. Klieg ,olan and hotel (should I know Fawlty Towers?) were filled with perps. Wagged Satie and Jude.
Melissa, loved your links, esp the White Cliffs of Dover.The Isle of Wight off the coast of Portsmouth has similar cliffs, but not as dominant.
I am so thankful for this blog. When I retired 2 1/2 yrs ago I started doing the puzzle each morning, and like all of you, it didn't take long to find C.C.'s blog.Taking the next step was quite hard for me, but I am so thankful I did. Each one of you make it very special.I feel like I am part of a team.Thanks all.
Didn't mean to cause a ruckus, MB, Dennis, et al. As a university prof for 43.5 years, I became increasingly upset with students using texting shortcuts in everything that they wrote. I guess I should get over it!
Tinbeni, sorry that I didn't include you in my post of thanks...I meant to. Cheers to you my friend.
Fermatprime, I am concerned that you don't find any good in life anymore. I know that you have suffered many setbacks with your health. Be grateful that someone cares about you enough to take you to a Thanksgiving dinner transporting you in your wheelchair. You obviously are a smart lady, please take this "nudge" as written and enjoy the day and the company around you.
Dear Lemonade...what a great idea to get us all back...there were of couple of people sorely missed, among them, Tarrajo and PJB, Moon ...good to see you...Buckeye is always a favorite...:o)I know I have missed others and no offense meant.
A small piece of trivia for John Cleese fans...Fawlty Towers only filmed 12 episodes because there was so much time taken, reshoots, and the attention to every comedic detail was so intense that the cost overruns were very pricey. It is one of the finest collections of comedic brillance caught on tape...IMHO(a nod to Buckeye).
Again, I thank C.C.Dennis, Argyle and all the rest for introducing me to all these wonderful people, especially my local friends of the CA Coven...hugs to you all.
And an especially Happy Thanksgiving to Jeannie who always notices when I show up. :o)
Good evening CC Melissa B and all.
just wanted to add my thanks to cc and all the regular contributers to the blog.
Thanks to Lemonade for the idea of a reunion.
Wishing each and everyone a safe and Happy Thanksgiving.
Tarrajo, so very good to hear from you and the update. Glad you and Brady Joe are well and doing what you love. I remember your zucchini fiasco last summer, I think we all could relate. Hope you can drop in here more often.
PJB, happy you could join us again too.
I miss all of you 'former bloggers'.
Wonder whatever happened to Embien?
There are still a couple of hours left to Wednesday so I am now checking in. I don't know how long I've been coming to this blog but it has been a long time. First, I commented anonymously (although I signed my name), because I didn't know how to set up an account. I still don't know how to get an avatar. In fact, I can't load pictures onto my computer anymore. I don't know what happened. I do appreciate the blog, though, and especially appreciate CC and the other bloggers who put so much time and effort into producing the answers. When we got gas in Madison on Monday, it was 2.79.9. The nextday it was 2.84.9 and today we saw it was down to 2.69. 9 in several places. Irv always says, "There's no rhyme nor reason to the gas prices."
HAPPY THANKSGIVING to everyone. May you find as many reasons to be thankful as I have.
Dot
Windhover, like you I enjoyed the trade, not so much the job. Always felt hampered by management from using my skills. When the craft was reduced to shim-shifting, I welcomed the chance to retire.
I've been away all day and have not read any of the comments; but I just wanted to join the rest of you in wishing a happy Thanksgiving to C.C. and all the wonderful people on this blog.
Vaya con Dios
Trying not to feed the trolls, but this is why I don't post regularly. Life is hard enough as a single Mom. I do the best that I can, and I hope the majority can understand it. Good to get the love though you'all that mean well. Tashajo just called and evidently, they ran into ice, that will put them behind. Brady has his tent set up and is sleeping now (in it) to await there arrival. I saw what was posted, and I can say I'm disappointed, and kind of hurt on this reunion day.
tarrajo, it was literally deleted within seconds of posting; no reason to even comment on it.
Sorry, the above was from me.
Well you all have made me proud and maybe we will hear from the rest of MIA's in the weeks.
Thanks for a great thanksgiving week
TJ, even the Mona Lisa attracts low lifes; I was afraid when I invited everyone back we would hear from the Jeannie Tarrajo bashers. It can only be jealousy, so do not let it get you, and as Dennie jumped in, we did not see it so...
8:30 PST and I am about to sit down to my first x-word of the week. Here's why I haven't been around.
I'm not going to read the blog until I get the puzzle done, but I did get to Tinbeni's. The cheapest I saw in the 1000+ miles I traveled was $3.03. The most I paid was $3.29. California likes to lead the nation in everything, including high prices.
Whew! Just finished reading ALL the comments so far (128)! What a response! Lemonade, congratulations and thanks much for getting us all together! C. C., you should be very proud. Many, many thanks for starting this wonderful blog and keeping it so exceptional!
Melissa Bee, I'm sorry about thinking it was Al's day for blogging. I was a day ahead, I guess. You always do a great job and your delivery is especially pleasant! Thank you.
I'm pretty new on the blog(Jan.2010) so it's really nice to meet so many of you who have been faithful for so long! I've said before as have so many of you, that finding this site was a very very happy accident and I feel proud to be a part of it.
Everyone have a terrific Thanksgiving holiday. I thank you all for this wonderful community!
Tarrajo, Please don't stay away because of one sickko.So many of us miss your daily chatter which usually brings a smile.
Dennis, you are so on the ball---thanks!
Well, it's been a great day on the blog - it's just outstanding that so many checked in today; quite the tribute to C.C.'s creation.
Whether you're a regular poster or an occasional lurker, it's great to have you as part of the blog. You all are why this place has enjoyed such success and I'm awfully happy to be a small part of it.
Gunghy, I'm glad he's back home - corpsmen, along with chopper pilots, are held in the highest regard by Marines; you should be very, very proud.
Happy Thanksgiving to everyone.
Well, we didn't talk directly to the operator unless it was a (gasp) long-distance call, which usually had to be scheduled an hour or so ahead of time, but I too still remember my first phone number -- 1399Y. The Y was because we were on a party line (1399) with two other families (X and Z).
And gas here in central DuPage County IL is 2.879/gal just now.
Hi All,
I'm new to the blog, (first post this past Sunday) but have been reading it for a couple of weeks. This is the only blog I have been to due to being a new user. First computer purchaced this past August. Huge news to family and friends, when I e-mailed everyone to announce THE BIG NEWS, some thought I was pregnant!...never expected me to buy a computer.(I still don't have an atm card or direct deposit)Old fashioned and only 42.
Thanks for the invitation to write although I am new. I love the blog and imagine it must be quite an effort to keep it going. I enjoy the explanation and references which help me to remember new words and phrases.
Hope everyone has something to be thankful for.
I'm not sure how much gas cost, fortunately my husband fills the tank. I'm so thankful for him.
Thanks for your blog! Kathy
Tarrajo, The zucchini recipe that I referred to was my mother-in-laws. I thought I sent it to you when we were swimming in zucchini a year ago.
E-mail me if you'd like. My computer crashed and I lost all of my e-mail addresses--yours among them. Loved your update.
Moon, it was good to see you once again. Your Umi project looks like a real winner. What exciting times in which we live!
Hi Kathy,
Welcome to the corner blog. I took care of your double post. It happens a lot.
Argyle
Hi Kathy Hi Kathy
Gunghy: Those 5 pictures are worth 5,000 words. But we don't have the space. Awesome, just awesome.
Tashajo has arrived at last...Time to put the little one's back to sleep and have some "catch-up time". Kazie, yes we finish each other's sentences, and uncannily know what the other is going to say. BTW, I had a toothache on my lower right side and she did too on her left side. Weird. Uncorking the FIRST bottle of wine as we speak. Thanks to all of you for the welcome back.
Gunghy, you must be busting with pride I know I am for you.
Tarrajo, I am so happy that you and your sister are going to be able to spend the long weekend together as well as the cousins. I will miss my family this holiday. Keep in mind what C.C. and Dennis say, don't be afraid to post here as we all miss you. Anything untoward posted about you will be deleted ASAP. I am afraid you have the same habbit I have, and that is checking your post to make sure it goes through. Generally that is when us good looking blonde's get blasted, right after we post. It has taken me a couple of years, but brush it off. I have found that there are plenty of people here that like (us) than not.
PBJ, yeah for you!! Good to hear from you. I am glad all is well.
Linda, I am disappointed. I hope you have kept your pact none the less.
Xchefwalt, I hope you have landed back on your feet and all is well.
My favorite counselor, great idea, as many have shown up today. My best news however is the recovery on your eye. Ciao. Lo-li-ta.
Gunghy, great news.
jerome and JL, thank you so much for stopping by. I think maybe, that's all folks...
The evening has come to neigh. We responded to the call to recognize c.c.'s blog. We continue to support those who need us and miss (Dr.Dad as an example) those who have moved on.
Today, as you enjoy Thanksgiving, give thanks to all of the people - known or unknown-lurkers-who have contributed to this wonderful experience that c.c. created. We ARE truly blessed!
May all of your joys and all you hold holy be given to you.
Happy Thanksgiving!
I love you, Buckeye.
Amen to that.
Good morning all,a fun puzzle and that is all I have to say. I wanted to check in today as I have been hanging around from early 2008 and did not want to miss "check in day."
I am late, but once again the family started descending on us Tuesday afternoon and continued until late last night. We have a lot of people staying here again, but we wouldn't want it any other way. Just another thing to be thankful for.
Hope you all have a great and joyous Thanksgiving.
I just wanted to round this out to an even 150. What an amazing response and tribute to what you've created here C.C.!
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