Bits and Pieces

corielena @ 2009-11-05T22:41:00

2009-11-06T03:42:29Z

NaNo update.

Yes, I'm doing it this year too.

I've got 11499 words so far according to the NaNo site. *L*

IT'S THE FINAL HALLOWEEN LINKSET OF THE YEAR!!!!

2009-10-31T17:46:24Z

It's the most....wonderful night...of the YEAAAAAAAAR! *laughs* As you can see, I'm just a little bit excited. It's also my pleasure to announce that there are not one, but TWO sets to end 2009, and the second one is brought to you courtesy of Fangwulf!

Throwing a bash? Some ideas to perhaps incorporate.

http://www.101halloweenideas.com/halloween_ideas_01.html
A selection of props and lighting ideas.

http://motomom.tripod.com/index-2.html
I like the Medusa idea--maybe add a realistic mask to enhance the effect and make her look scarier? Don't forget the sunglasses to keep anyone from looking directly at her, hmmm? *winks*

http://www.celebrating-halloween.com/party/evil-laboratory-party.shtml
I was working in the lab, late one night....

http://www.halloween-website.com/themes.htm
Perhaps a bit late for this year, but perhaps next you could consider one of these themes.

http://www.ehow.com/Halloween/decorations.html
More themes, some decorating ideas, outdoor celebrations, and a traditional game.

http://www.halloweenhowl.com/
Pretty much covers the basics on just about everything related to a party for this holiday.

http://www.theholidayspot.com/halloween/party_ideas/
Even more themes.

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/361463/simple_doityourself_halloween_party.html?cat=74
Mostly quick ideas for decorating.

http://www.halloweenonlinemagazine.com/decor/halloween_beacon1-1.html
Make sure your guests can find your place with this beacon.

http://www.mentalfloss.com/blogs/archives/9018
Some REALLY cool ideas--including the ever-popular Cylon Jack-O-Lantern.

http://www.familymanagement.com/holidays/halloween/party.ideas.html
A number of inexpensive and fast decorations.

http://www.essortment.com/all/halloweenadult_remm.htm
Decorations and a few tricks. *winks*

http://www.countryliving.com/cooking/entertaining/halloween-party-ideas
Some interesting things here.

And now, the set located for you by the lovely Fangwulf. Thank you, darlin'! Have I told you lately how much you ROCK? Cuz you seriously do!

http://www.theonion.com/content/video/in_the_know_has_halloween_become
I hope this link works properly for everyone. It's a rather interesting one to watch.

http://www.palibandaily.com/2009/09/15/modern-day-witch-hunt-at-stoudtbrg-village/
Sad, this. Can't we get along?

http://www.stanford.edu/~njbuff/conference_win06/papers/Hakon_DeVries.pdf
Evolution of the witch as viewed by outsiders.

http://www.landoverbaptist.org/sermons/vegans.html
According to this guy, God says to eat meat.

http://www.angliapsychics.com/MODERNDAYWITCH.html
Interesting article.

http://masstraveljournal.com/features/halloween/cry-innocent-salem-witch-trial
Re-enacting an old, old crime.

http://www.religioustolerance.org/day_cont.htm
I wonder if this is still happening?

http://www.bbc.co.uk/religion/religions/paganism/history/modern_2.shtml
Short article on the history of witchcraft and Paganism.

http://edition.cnn.com/2008/WORLD/africa/06/12/kenya.witches/index.html
Just....horrible!

http://www.askroseariadne.com/
Some of these are just funny to me. But hey--don't ask, never learn, right?

http://www.prweb.com/releases/2006/07/prweb408108.htm
And an article about the previous site.

http://www.historyandlegends.com/scotland-scottish-witches-wizards-fairies-faeries.html
An overview of Scotland's witchcraft history.

http://www.witchcraftandwitches.com/witches.html
A list of witches, both mythical and those we've proof exist/ed.

BONUS LINK!!!! Also courtesy of Fangwulf. *G*
http://www.meaningofnames.biz/names-famous-witches.htm
Another list of famous witches.

I hope everyone has a wonderful Halloween. And a most blessed Samhain!

Link Set 30.

2009-10-31T00:50:22Z

ONE MORE DAY!!!!

To celebrate, here's a few MORE things to watch while you put the final touches on your costume.

http://www.allmovie.com/work/6920
It's all about control, man, even from alien bugs.

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0095444/
It's a CLASSIC!

http://www.allmovie.com/work/the-thing-49461
The later version of this movie was one of the first horror flicks that really freaked me out.

http://www.allmovie.com/work/invasion-of-the-body-snatchers-25288
Another classic, but less with the comedy factor.

http://www.allmovie.com/work/the-blob-6070
There's supposed to be a remake of this soon. courtesy of Rob Zombie, I read.

http://www.allmovie.com/work/species-134918
Had its moments, but I found it kind of silly.

http://www.slithermovie.net/
The scene with the REALLY bloated lady makes me laugh and groan at the same time. Poor lady....

http://us.imdb.com/title/tt0087998/plotsummary
I wonder if the people who made this flick saw a close-up of a hookworm.

http://www.fast-rewind.com/nightofthecreeps.htm
One of my favorite bad flicks.

http://www.stomptokyo.com/movies/b/blue-monkey.html
But--where's the monkey?

http://www.splinterfilm.com/Home.html
Creepy in places, but kind of slow. And mints are refreshing. This flick is not.

http://www.celebritywonder.com/movie/2003_Dreamcatcher.html
This movie is worth it simply to see one of the most disgusting parasitical exits ever.

http://www.starpulse.com/movie/Dark_Breed/V162570/0/2/
Another very slow movie, although the homeless guy was pretty cool.

Now, how many of you figured out tonight's theme? Be specific! 8wide grin and winks* ONE MORE DAY, folks! See you tomorrow with a double linkfest!

Link Set 29.

2009-10-30T00:30:36Z

Dress-up is fun. *BG* This year I'm going to be either a ghost bride or a zombie bride, depending on how much of my makeup I've managed to find. What about you?

Most of which, I admit, require some effort. *L* But well worth it.

http://familyfun.go.com/halloween/halloween-kids-costumes/
A list of fairly simple costume ideas.

http://www.hgtv.com/holidays-occasions/rock-star-tattoo-arm-sleeves/index.html
I like this one. I wonder how well those little rub-off fake-toos would work with this.

http://www.costumeideazone.com/index.htm
Not only a few VERY inexpensive and easy costumes, but tips on how to win a costume contest. *G* Anyone wins one this year, I want to know, please.

http://www.makeup-fx.com/Perukeng.html
This is a bit more complex. But worth it.

http://www.fxwarehouse.info/fangs.shtml
Fangs for the memories!

http://www.ehow.com/how_2081872_make-vampire-fangs.html
A slightly simpler, but less realistic, version of the above. *winks*

http://www.craftstylish.com/item/12658/the-claw-how-to-make-an-unusual-halloween-mask
Reminds me bit of that scene in Alien....

http://www.visi.com/~norseman/viking_shoe.html
VIKINGS!!!!

http://www.modaruniversity.org/chemise1.htm
Let's see. Period wear (of course), ghostly lady, nighty-night sweetheart--add proper decoration and you can easily be a zombie or vampire's bride or murder victim! Heh. Heck, add curlers and cold cream and you'll look like a stereotypical old-time hausfrau preparing for bed! Use your imagination--those are just the easiest concepts that spring to my mind. I can think of a few more already! *G*

http://home.clara.net/arianrhod/Aldebaran/DoItYourself/Cloak03.html
The PHAAAAAAANtom of the OPera is heeeeeeere......iiiiinsiiiiiiide your miiiiiiiiiiind!

http://dept.kent.edu/museum/exhibit/spirals/vionnet.htm
So. Many. Possibilites!!!!

http://www.tudorlinks.com/treasury/freepatterns/index.html
Victorian and Edwardian patterns, including those for men and children. A LOT of good stuff here.

http://www.ehow.com/how_2096020_make-japanese-kimono.html
One of my favorites this year.

Enjoy! *winks playfully* And please don't forget to let me know what you're dressing up as this year, aye?

Link Set 28.

2009-10-29T00:27:11Z

As of the beginning of this post, we have 2 days and ~!!8!!~ hours left!!
Now, those of you with weak stomachs may wish to avoid today's post. It's recipes for food--but many people might find the foods rather revolting (at least where I am). Read at your own risk, don't say I didn't warn you, some of these foods may require ingredients and/or techniques and/or tools that must be precise (and fresh in some cases) and performed by an expert. Use your own common sense if you make them and please--don't share whether or not you enjoyed it. *L*

http://bertc.com/subfive/recipes/penisstew.htm
Loreena Bobbitt doesn't need to read this recipe.

http://iberianature.com/wildworld/eating-spiders-scorpions-and-insects/
Not a fit feast for the arachnophobe, although the Society to Save Our Flies may find it vindictively pleasurable to eat this.

http://www.cookadvice.com/recipes/jellied_moose_nose-2436-recipe.htm
"But a very SEXY moose! Huwaaaaaaaah!" (Name that movie, anyone? *L* Hint: It's not a Halloween flick specifically.))

http://bertchristensen.com/subfive/recipes/fruitbat.htm
Mmmmmm! Bring on the wing-mice.

http://www.backwoodsbound.com/zfrog.html
And you thought there was only one way to cook these....!

http://www.foodreference.com/html/singed-shj-012407.html
Waste not, want not!

http://gumbopages.com/food/scottish/haggis.html
If it's not Scottish....

http://www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk/wml/naturalworld/bughouse/redantstirfry.aspx
How many times have they bitten you, and ruined a lovely picnic? It's time to BITE BACK!

http://fooddownunder.com/cgi-bin/recipe.cgi?r=278712
You may never hear the phrase "Gonna grab me some grub." in quite the same way again.

http://www.ochef.com/r286.htm
A tasty treat for the vampires among us, perhaps?

http://www.astray.com/recipes/?show=Blackfeet%20indian%20jellied%20snake
Next time you take a hoe to one of these, save the leftovers.

http://karagitz.blogspot.com/2005/09/chocolate-covered-bacon_28.html
I believe several Bewarian folks were discussing this lovely breakfast treat.

http://www.exploratorium.edu/cooking/pickles/recipe-fried_pickles.html
You know, we've had a lot of main dishes. How's this for a side vegetable?

BONUS LINKS!!!!
Emicarn? These are for you!

http://www.celtnet.org.uk/recipes/roman/fetch-recipe.php?rid=roman-glires

And....

http://bertc.com/subfive/recipes/cookingrats.htm
And you have to go look to find out what they are. *cackles gleefully*

Link Set 27.

2009-10-28T01:25:52Z

Time to put on your paintin' clothes and break out the toolbox (well, I keep a lot of MY supplies in toolboxes!)!

http://www.allcrafts.net/f.php?url=www.pinksunrise.com/craft/rosspumpkin.htm
These are a nice little idea. And after you make them, you can paint on faces!

http://familyfun.go.com/crafts/origami-bats-673294/
Fold up a flock of these little beauties! Could also write out your friends' names in white glue, then sprinkle the name while wet with red, black, or purple glitter and use them as placecards.

http://crafts.kaboose.com/elegant-candles.html
Word of warning with this. Although these candles are quite pretty, DO NOT leave them alone for a minute. Glue will burn, if the candle melts down enough to fold it into the flame. I suggest you don't use tapers or votives, either--stick to pillars.

http://home.howstuffworks.com/28-fun-halloween-crafts.htm
28 different craft projects. A number of these are REALLY nice!

http://www.vintageimagecraft.com/halloween-pop-up-card.html
The instructions for this could easily be transferred so that you can use images of your choice.

http://www.craftown.com/halloween/craft65.htm
Salt dough crafts are a lot of fun. Bonus--use the dough to make ghosts and don't paint them. The salt crystals will actually make them slightly sparkly, and if your hands are clean they should be a brilliant white! Just bleached sheets, eh? *G*

http://www.craftbits.com/project/voodoo-doll-pen
Creepy cute fun to write with!

http://www.tallmouse.com/projects/halloween/index.htm
A plethora of crafts mostly suitable for the youngsters.

http://www.joann.com/joann/catalog.jsp?CATID=cat563867&PRODID=xprd790603
This would be such a NICE decoration!

http://www.enchantedlearning.com/crafts/halloween/
Uber-cute crafts for the littler little ones.

http://www.hgtv.com/holidays-occasions/halloween-skull-wreath/index.html
Another wreath, if the first one was just too plain for your tastes.

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/55400/free_halloween_craft_project_how_to.html?cat=24
I'm making one of these myself! *wide grin*

http://www.celebrating-halloween.com/crafts/halloween-window-hanging.shtml
Instead of just throwing all those plastic cups away, why not make something out of them? Supervise your children if they want to do this one, parents. Hot plastic plus tender flesh equals emergency room. And then add in the whole hot oven factor....

Most of these projects can also be made into decorations for other seasons with a bit of imagination. But really--do you NEED more non-Halloween things?

Link Set 26.

2009-10-26T22:51:13Z

Oddities--for real!

http://www.shirleys-wellness-cafe.com/urine.htm
Um. I think I'd rather exhaust my other options....

http://healthmad.com/health/medical-maggots-cure-infections-and-clean-wounds/
SQUEAL!!!!

http://www.healthline.com/blogs/medical_devices/2007/06/unusual-medical-news-fatal-overdose-of.html
OK--you may think Mr. Spock is the coolest of the cool, but this is NOT the way to emulate him!

http://www.halfbakery.com/idea/Booger_20Pickers_20Tool_20Kit
I'd rather just keep blowing, thanks.

http://gizmodo.com/5359026/pet-care-robot-scares-the-bejeezus-out-of-fido-while-youre-away
Pure. Evil. My cats would hate me until the end of time.

http://www.coloradodaily.com/ci_13334276
Bleach can be your friend. Seriously. This is also why I do not LIKE those on-faucet water purifier things; I've had to clean one before. *shudders* NAsty!

http://www.medpagetoday.com/MeetingCoverage/ICAAC/15941
*cries* But...I LOVE going to the beach!

http://archives.chicagotribune.com/2009/sep/13/local/chi-flu-virus_latsep13
Interesting.

http://www.thefreelibrary.com/Beauty+and+the+Crease+%3F+Top+5+Most+Bizarre+Medical+Spa+Treatments-a01073940402
Some of ya'll may remember something on this page.

http://nerdapproved.com/approved-products/glowing-toilet-paper-helps-you-poop-in-the-dark/
Or you could...turn on the light?

http://www.thegadgetblog.net/2007/11/26/introducing-the-disposable-compact-sperm-microscope/
What a conversation starter!

http://quazen.com/kids-and-teens/school-time/study-ball-bizarre-gadget/
SO glad this wasn't around when I was a kid!!

http://gadgether.com/bizarre-kitchen-gadgets/
I think my favorite is the second one. Ew!

I hope you've enjoyed today's selection of weird science and scary news, folks. See you tomorrow!

Link Set 25.

2009-10-26T00:07:36Z

Will you be my Halloween spookheart?

http://www.yourghoststories.com/real-ghost-story.php?story=5072
This one creeps me out.

http://www.syfy.com/ghosthunters/
I'm not a big fan of this show, but I know a lot of people love it.

http://www.trueghosttales.com/stories/ouija-spirits.php
Ouija boards, actually, are not terribly safe.

http://www.prairieghosts.com/druidridge.html
She's a scary, scary lady.

http://www.realhaunts.com/united-states/dead-childrens-playground/
They want to play, too.

http://www.rothline.com/2009/03/the-cry-baby-bridge-of-catoosa-oklahoma/
Sad tale, regardless of the version.

http://paranormal.about.com/library/weekly/aa031201a.htm
They seek to help from beyond the grave.

http://www.americanfolklore.net/folktales/md3.html
I wonder if she'd give the gold to someone who was on the right side.... I'm not sure I care to debate it with her, though.

http://thelongestlistofthelongeststuffatthelongestdomainnameatlonglast.com/haunted47.html
Adamsville has some spooky sites, too.

http://www.prairieghosts.com/parlange.html
Forcing someone to marry another is about as sensible as giving your dog meowing lessons.

http://www.forgottenoh.com/Counties/Clermont/deadmanscurve.html
You won't come back....

http://www.weirdca.com/location.php?location=2
Adelaida Cemetary sounds like a very cool place to check out.

http://www.codelphia.com/aesgaard41/point_place.html
We don't need no education....

http://www.hauntedhouses.com/states/ut/smith_haunted_house.cfm
And last, but not least--another haunted house to satisfy your itch for the unusual.

Hope everyone enjoyed the spookiness of tonight!

Link Set 24.

2009-10-24T20:48:19Z

Many things to see and do, how about you make a few?

For the home, this time around.
http://dev.fabulousliving.com/component/resource/article/584/20278
Everybody loves a shrunken head!

http://webspinstress.com/halloween/2009/08/11/printable-jar-labels/
I love these labels!

http://www.velvetwine.com/Articles/fireandflames.html
Amusingly enough, I got to this link just as Andro and I were talking about the next huge holiday.

http://www.geocities.com/Athens/Troy/5187/entertaining.html
A few interesting ideas for decorating the house.

http://www.shadowmanor.com/blog/?p=307
I really want to make myself one of these.

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/2121363/victorian_halloween_decorations_from.html?cat=24
More decorating ideas!

http://www.marthastewart.com/photogallery/halloween-decorating
These? So very, very cool if done well.

http://www.hgtv.com/holidays-entertaining/decorating-for-halloween/index.html
These would make for an incredibly scary decorating scheme.

http://www.halloween-website.com/decorating.htm
Less expensive ideas for the most part.

http://holiday-entertaining.suite101.com/article.cfm/elegant_halloween_decorating
Nice, simple, elegant, and un-scary.

http://web.archive.org/web/20051213154556/http://www.thecreativelife.tv/projects/projectsdisplay.asp?search=category&show=happy+holidays&item=20041025205434
This would make a kickin' prop!

http://www.allcrafts.net/f.php?url=www.canadianliving.com/CanadianLiving/client/en/Crafts/DetailNews.asp?idNews=3413&idSM=310
He's invisible!

http://www.shelterrific.com/2008/10/20/easy-elegant-halloween-decorations/
Decor ideas, include some to purchase.

I hope you have fun!

Link Set 23.

2009-10-23T23:07:19Z

Most of our stuff is here. More to go. Yay?

But anyway--tonight's festival of links, meant to satisfy your sweet tooth!

http://candy.about.com/od/halloweencandyrecipes/r/candy_corn.htm
I adore candy corn--I hope you do too. And this, my very dears, is how to make some yourself!

http://www.cdkitchen.com/recipes/cat/376/
What to do, what to do, with all your leftover candy?

http://halloweenaddict.com/2009/03/halloween-candy-may-lift-spirits-during.html
I knew there was a good reason for Halloween candy.

http://www.chow.com/stories/10746
If you like Reeses's peanut butter cups, Twix, Snickers, or Almond Joys, you will probably love this site.

http://www.candywarehouse.com/scorpionpops.html
Is this the candy that bites back?

http://candy.about.com/od/gumgelatinbasedcandy/r/sourgummies.htm
I adore sour candy.

http://alowfatcandy.blogspot.com/2006/10/skeleton-pops.html
Too bad there's not actually any calcium in these. Then they'd be good for you candies!

http://www.slashfood.com/2006/07/22/candy-scabs/
You know how good it feels to pick them? Now you can eat them without making absolutely everyone sick.

http://www.slashfood.com/2006/10/24/how-to-make-homemade-marshmallows/
What I like best about this is you can make them in different shapes, and even roll 'em in colored sugar.

http://www.thisnext.com/item/50B5F1CF/B39C473B/Fear-Factor-Candy-Cockroach
I think this was the grossest candy I found this year. *L*

http://www.thisnext.com/item/0FD5BDF9/84555DA8/Hose-Nose-Liquid-Booger-Candy
Although this one ran a close second.

http://www.thenibble.com/marketplace/gift/gourmet-halloween-candy.asp
These candies are just outright COOL. Especially the newlyweds.

http://www.strangenewproducts.com/2006/07/white-chocolate-maggots.html
OK. I was wrong. THESE are the most revolting candies I found this year.

I hope you enjoyed today's selections. Remember to brush your teeth!

Link Set 22.

2009-10-22T17:50:03Z

Not much time, so here's the easy. Animals!

http://media.www.thecurrentonline.com/media/storage/paper304/news/2007/10/29/Opinions/Lets-Go.Bats.For.Halloween-3063262.shtml
Going batty?

http://www.funpic.hu/funblog/allatok/allatok.html
Rhiownfish?

http://spluch.blogspot.com/2007/05/weird-animals-created-using-photoshop.html
Polly wanna bone!

http://fx.worth1000.com/contests/2836/missing-title
Fishy fishy flap flap, fishy fishy flap!

http://somethinbeautiful.blogspot.com/2009/08/beautifully-photoshopped-combination-of.html
A real dandelion.

http://www.flickzzz.com/2008/06/photoshopped-animals.html
Plaaaaay--ew!

http://www.humandescent.com/hdgallery.php?&blogbegin=20
Penowl!!

http://vinothkumarm.blogspot.com/2009/04/unusual-animal-photos-morphed-animals.html
Erm....jackaduck?

http://www.freakingnews.com/Hybrid-Animals-Pictures--563.asp
Zebrant! That one was easy.

http://www.yourdailydump.com/2007/04/03/photoshop-hybrid-animals/
Were he a donkey, he'd be a wiseass. I adore the teenykitten!!

http://www.oddee.com/item_96640.aspx
Echo, seriously--check out number 5 on this one. *laughs!!!!*

http://www.trendhunter.com/trends/humandescent
N...n...nice b..birdy!

http://www.worsleyschool.net/science/files/biggest/spider.html
Usually, I catch and release. This one, I think I'd simply cream and get someone else to deal with!!

Enjoy, folks!

Moving!

2009-10-22T04:36:15Z

And tomorrow night, the comp'll be at the new place, while I'll be here. If possible, I'll post up the links tomorrow during the day. *hoping things go well!*

If not, then I'llc atch up as soon as I can!

Link Set 21.

2009-10-21T21:15:46Z

Big and round and fat and orange! Here's a few treats from the pumpkin patch!

http://www.pumpkinnook.com/howto/pumpkinpickingtips.htm
How do you pick the very best pumpkin to carve? Let these kind folks educate you!

http://www.pumpkin-patch.com/varieties.html
I'd love to grow all of these. Can you just ~imagine~ the awesome gathering of Jack'O'Lanterns and all the baked goods that could come from all these??

http://urbanext.illinois.edu/pumpkins/history.cfm
So, why do we carve pumpkins anyway, at this time of the year?

http://www.pumpkincarving101.com/pumpkin_lifespan.html
All about the basics of carving.

http://www.fabulousliving.com/index.php?option=com_resource&controller=article&article=21457&category_id=273
More about carving, but with more pictures.

http://www.extremepumpkins.com/
Try going to the edge this year when you carve.

http://www.marthastewart.com/good-thing/turnip-jack-o-lanterns
It's actually more traditional to carve these for Halloween. *G* GREAT for a Celtic-themed party, too.

http://www.ehow.com/halloween/templates.html
Of course, if you'd rather stick to something a little less incendiary--here are some templates to spice up your Jack'O'Lantern this year.

http://www.halloween-online.com/carve/halloween-pumpkin-carving-lighting.html
Ideas on how to illuminate your Jack'O'Lantern.

http://home.howstuffworks.com/holidays/halloween-decorations15.htm
You might want something like a Jack'O'Lantern without carving. Here's one idea for you. There are links to other ideas on the page, too.

http://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home/crafts/no-carve-pumpkin-decorating
Here's another idea for pumpkin decoration sans carving. Very modernistic. And don't forget--you can also spray paint pumpkins and gourds in interesting colors (I rather like a collection of gourds in cool shapes, painted metallic golds and silvers.

http://candleandsoap.about.com/od/holidayprojects/ss/jackolantern.htm
Pumpkin ~candles~ to make at home! Be careful, folks--candle-making can be dangerous. Definitely don't let the children do this sort of thing unsupervised.

http://new-york-travel.suite101.com/article.cfm/the_great_jack_olantern_blaze
I think I'd like to see this!

Enjoy, my dears!

Link Set 20.

2009-10-21T00:08:12Z

Today's selection is a bit more serious than yesterday. Mmm, or, actually, any of the ones so far this month. *laughs*

Different cultures have holidays that are similar to Halloween and Samhain. There are also some fascinating historical aspects to this day. And finally--different folks hold different views on this day of the year. I've found you a selection of links that offer a smattering of information on all three topics.

http://www.jackolanterns.net/mexicanhalloween.htm
This tells you a little about Mexico's traditions.

http://www.timeanddate.com/holidays/canada/halloween
Canadian traditions seem very similar to America's Halloween.

http://cats.suite101.com/article.cfm/halloween_and_the_black_cat
This site tells a bit about Halloween's origins, but focuses on one of the symbols associated with it in the USA--the black cat.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/scotland/tayside_and_central/7062388.stm
Not all traditions are for everyone.

http://www.pumpkinpatchesandmore.org/halloweenglobal.php
Halloween's Celtic origins, plus a brief bit of information on the holiday in a number of different countries.

http://www.new-age.co.uk/celtic-festivals-samhain.htm
This article tells of some of the Pagan roots of Halloween in more detail than the other pages so far.

http://www.loc.gov/folklife/halloween.html
Even more history for your enjoyment!

http://www.paganspath.com/magik/samhain-history.htm
If you enjoyed the previous site, you'll enjoy this one.

http://www.thebookofshadows.net/rites/samhain.html
For those of you who practice a Pagan form of spirituality, or those who simply find other faiths interesting, here's one for you.

http://www.cs.utk.edu/~mclennan/OM/K-Samh.txt
Where the previous site focused on the solo practioner, this one is for groups.

http://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2000/october2/29.79.html
I found this article interesting in that it's from a Christian who is not completely villifying the holiday. In my research, the vast majority of articles by Christians on Halloween are.... firmly unamused by the holiday, shall we say.

http://www.witchvox.com/va/dt_va.html?a=usma&c=holidays&id=2204
A modern Witch's take on the topic.

http://www.godweb.org/blhalloweenc.htm
Last, but not least for tonight's delights--a Witch's rebuttal to the more "vocally emphatic" people who speak out against Halloween.

Until tomorrow, folks!

Link Set 19.

2009-10-20T00:47:36Z

Let's play!

http://goireland.about.com/od/historyculture/qt/future_samhain.htm
Unlike most of tonight's offerings, this one deals primarily traditional sorts of things to do on Halloween.

http://funschool.kaboose.com/fun-blaster/halloween/games/game_scary_flibriks.html
Sort of a cross between Block Blaster and Memory. Child-safe.

http://www.freeworldgroup.com/games8/gameindex/ghostscape.htm
A slightly spooky ghost hunters type. Not recommended for children.

http://www.cavernsofblood.com/spirit-game/
Whack the pumpkin! The game itself isn't terribly scary, but young children might be disturbed by the graphics.

http://www.onlinegames.net/games/1987/halloween-pumpkins.html
Stack the pumpkins. Safe for children.

http://hauntworld.com/games/witchgame.swf
Guide the witch on her broom. Parents, play this before your children do--the graphics may bother them.

http://halloweenarcade.com/index.php?halloweennightmare
A match-3 game that shouldn't bother the children too much.

http://www.theoworlds.com/halloween/
Carve your very own cyber-pumpkin! the children might like this one.

http://www.666gamer.com/play-92-Goliath-the-SoothSayer.html
Creepy! I strongly suggest the children don't play this one.

http://www.2scarygames.com/scary-games/8/Haunted-House-Massacre.html
Another creepy game, RPG style. Not so good for the children.

http://www.hypergurl.com/onlinegames/badmoonrisinggame.shtml
Shine your flashlight to make the scary critters dissolve. Might be all right for older children, but you may want to play it yourself first to make sure.

http://www.scarygames.us/game/179/SilentHillFinalRedemption.html
A sort of mini-version of Silent Hill. Not so good for children.

http://www.gamespond.net/online/254/Bulwark-53---Free-Online-Game.html
Ah! Ah! Ah! Ah! Stayin' alive, stayin' alive! Or trying to. Definately not good for the children.

Hopefully you've found a nice lot of time-wast---um, of interesting things to keep your mind occupied. Yeah. Sure. that's what I meant, uh-huh!

*L* Enjoy, and see you tomorrow!

Link Set 18.

2009-10-18T23:18:18Z

Time for a change? check out these images. Most of them this year (but not all) are avatars and icons, ranging from the sweet to the scary.

http://www.iconator.com/tags.php?type=avatar&tag=halloween
I want the Bat Brat one.

http://www.aapavatar.net/halloween.htm
I'd say most of these are more clipart than avatar.

http://www.gwally.com/avatars/cat_halloween.php
Angelina has never looked so, erm, different before! (Not all of these are of her, btw.)

http://scaredmonkeys.net/index.php?topic=3331.0
Iledwyn (and innowen, too, iffen she likes! LOL!)? This is THE site for you, Sock Monkey Man!!

http://www.crazyprofile.com/Icons/Icons_Halloween.asp
I must admit I find most of these too blinky for my tastes.

http://www.avatarist.com/avatars/Various/Scary/
Much less with the strobe-like blinking. I like a number of these!

http://www.coolavatars.net/scary.html
I think the Scary Girl is scarier before the monsterification part. *nods firmly*

http://www.graphicsgrotto.com/avatars/scary/
Not a lot here, but they're not bad. You might want to check out some of the other sections, too.

http://imageevent.com/afap/horroravatars
Daniel, what've we told you about modeling for strangers? *impish grin. ducks*

http://en.1001avatars.net/_horror.php
A few kinda cool ones.

http://www.avatarity.com/category/84/
Avatars made from horror flicks!

http://www.droncast.com/index.php/gallery?func=viewcategory&catid=38
These rock.

http://www.beyondavatars.com/categories.php?cat_id=36
Gothic rather than strictly horror, but a fair number of these are creepy.

So, who wants to change avis for the rest of the month? *wide grin*

Link Set 17.

2009-10-17T17:23:23Z

If you want something visual that not TOO abyssmal, we could take in some more horror movies?

http://www.planetavp.com/amr/indexold.html
Warning, check this one out fast. This is the old site and no telling when the hosting company's going to pull it.

http://www.archive.org/details.php?identifier=AttackOfTheGiantLeeches
Giant leeches! You can watch them at their slimy worst right on your computer!

http://www.badmovies.org/movies/killtomato/
Careful, your salad may start fighting back.

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0411806/
I'm not sure, but this may be the worst one in the series. So it's one of my favorites.

http://www.dreadcentral.com/reviews/attack-giant-leeches-2009
As if it was bad enough the ~first~ time, they made a brand NEW version!

http://www.allmovie.com/work/4460
Sort of like Godzilla meets Swine Flu. But not really.

http://www.listology.com/list/complete-list-godzilla-movies
Speaking of Godzilla, have you watched them all?

http://www.archive.org/details/thebeastofhollowmountain
More dino-delight, and you don't even have to rent it. Just turn up your speakers and hit "play".

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0271367/
A modern B-flick that I happen to find hysterically amusing.

http://www.1000misspenthours.com/reviews/reviewse-g/ghostoffrankenstein.htm
You know? I always tended to feel sorry for the ~monster~. And no--this isn't Frankenstein....exactly. *L*

http://www.allmovie.com/work/21230
This movie, despite being older, really does have its creepy moments.

http://www.bmovies.com/horrormovies.php
This sort of flick linkfest just wouldn't be complete without a site that lists virtually every know English (and a few non-English)- speaking B-grade movies. I love the things!

http://www.amctv.com/b-movies/horror/
I almost linked specifically to The Cat Girl, but really, that wouldn't've been fair of me. You can watch a nice selection of older horror movies right on your computer.

I hope you feel flooded with entertainment options. And why not host a B-movie marathon weekend?

*

Link Set 16.

2009-10-16T23:35:26Z

Do you enjoy sharing the love? I do. Here's thirteen places where you, too, can share the love of Halloween!

http://www.care2.com/send/categories/Samhain
Very little in the way of uber-cutesy here, comparatively speaking. Some of these are very nice.

http://free-e-cards-online.com/HalloweenCardsCollection1.html
Very cute!

http://www.higreetings.com/holiday/halloween/halloween_humor/
Animated cards for your amusement.

http://shaktiweb.com/halloweenecards/index.php
These have antique images on them. Somehow, they seem more stately than many modern pictures.

http://www.oestarapublishing.com/SamhainEcards.html
Some of these are just gorgeous.

http://www.moonfairye.com/card/halloween.htm
It's hard to decide if I like the cats or the moon better.

http://www.halloweenhorrors.net/
Most of these are cute, but a few are rather creepy.

http://www.netglimse.com/greetings/halloween.shtml
An awful lot of animated cards in here.

http://www.101lifestyle.com/greetings/halloween.html
I like the Halloween Critters section the best.

http://www.doozycards.com/ecards/halloween
They have Halloween doggies here. Can you ask for more?

http://www.123greetings.com/aff-bin/subcategory/118/eoct_hallo_wishes
A small selection of sweet little cards.

http://www.halloween-ecards.com/
There's even an invitation card for Halloween here.

http://www.greet2k.com/events/halloween/index.shtml
Adorable!

*G* I hope you enjoyed these tonight. Now, get to sending a few already! *laughs*

Link Set 15.

2009-10-15T20:57:32Z

CZhuck thought today, we might all enjoy some movies to watch.

If it ain't broke....

http://www.jurassicpark.com/
They died out for a reason, people.

http://www.foxsearchlight.com/28dayslater/
As if it weren't bad enough as it is, they had to make it into a disease?

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0443334/
Nice, urr, kitty?

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Brood
The idea of the "children" is both creepy, and cool.

http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/carnosaur/
This one made me giggle. What can I say? I like the gory flicks!

http://www.tcm.com/tcmdb/title.jsp?stid=13855
A classic! How could you make a linkset of science gone very, very wrong without including at least one version of ~this~?

http://www.hometheaterinfo.com/flu_birds_(flu_bird_horror).htm
One that preys on then-current fears.

http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/1007602-fly/
Mr. Scott would cry! And then go for the swatter.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aps6RAbt3Pg&feature=PlayList&p=7131DC4F3799DC53&index=13
Another classic of the Mad Scientist Movie genre. And you can ~watch~ it online.

http://www.godsendthemovie.com/
Some doctors shouldn't be trusted.

http://www.allmovie.com/work/re-animator-40416
One of my favorite series in the genre.

http://www.movieweb.com/movies/film/FIIG2JNM0peiLP
Seriously. I have to wonder if we could all switch to solar, wind, and water energy!

http://www.filmbug.com/asin/B0000DC16B
And not only is it a horrible death, but all the poor vampires would starve, too!

Don't Fix It!!

Link Set 14.

2009-10-14T20:48:34Z

Today's linkfest is in honor of the lovely innowen. My very dear friend, I hope you enjoy them!

I'm a visually-oriented person. I enjoy watching my horror gems and my spook-filled TV programs. But I'm also a reader--nothing beats curling up with a good book and a warm cat purring in your lap.

And so, may I present a selection to read at your computer? Some of these may be legally downloaded and printed out for personal use but please check the copywrights first.

http://www.buried.com/features/novels.shtml
This site has a number of books and novellas for your entertainment.

http://empirenovel.com/
From here you can go read a number of really freaky books online. Check out the side bar.

http://www.gutenberg.org/wiki/Horror_%28Bookshelf%29
This link takes you to Project Gutenberg's horror bookshelf. I don't normally plug for money but this organization? Folks, if you love to read, please consider a donation.
And check out Ambrose Beirce's The Damned Thing. Awesome, creepy tale.

http://www.english.upenn.edu/~nauerbac/onions.html
An old-fashioned story--but is it a haunted house? A demon? A living house with a maliciously insane soul? Or is the guy simply mad as a hatter? You decide!

http://www.dagonbytes.com/thelibrary/lovecraft/wallofsleep.htm
If I'm not mistaken, Mr. Lovecraft's Cthonian mythos was the first (perhaps the only) fictional horror setting that encouraged other authors to write within it. And it's ~scary~.

http://www.eapoe.org/index.htm
Another Master of the Macabre, Mr. Poe.

http://www.fantasylibrary.com/stacks/carmil01.htm
Brahm Stoker shocked the world with his sensual novel Dracula. But this came first.

http://www.fantasylibrary.com/stacks/tales7.htm
Ms. Shelley wrote more than you might think.

http://etext.lib.virginia.edu/toc/modeng/public/PreVar1.html
I was lucky enough to come across this gem in three hardback volumes.

http://www.ofcn.org/cyber.serv/resource/bookshelf/tturn10/
A classic piece of literature, and--rather sad, I think.

http://gaslight.mtroyal.ab.ca/tapchamb.htm
A weirdling tale for your enjoyment....

http://www.litgothic.com/Texts/spectre_bride.html
Kind of like The Corpse Bride--but spookier.

http://www.geocities.com/_aleesha_/gaiman.html
Neil Gaiman. This story appeared in Love in Vein II, I believe. I own it; good reading there all the way around.

I hope you remembered to lock your doors and windows tonight....

Link Set 12.

2009-10-13T00:45:55Z

I promise, tonight's set may LOOK gross, but really,they're just fine for eating. And nothing should truly nauseate anyone. *winks*

http://www.britta.com/Hw/hwr.html#eyeballs
Mmmm, a snack that looks you over too.

http://www.halloweenkitchen.com/halloween-recipes-pumpkin-seeds.html
There actually is a method to roasting pumpkin seeds. You don't have to follow this, or any other recipe--but I guarantee that a novice seed-roaster will find one useful.

http://www.cooksrecipes.com/beverage/cider_snap_recipe.html
Probably the easiest hot punch recipe I've come across yet. I expect, for those who imbibe alcohol, a bit of hard cider, apple brandy, or applejack would perk it right up. I'd suggest adding it near the end so you get more booze for your bang.

http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Plain-Caramel-Apples/Detail.aspx
A classic treat!

http://southernfood.about.com/od/pumpkins/r/bl30212s.htm
A delicious way to use up your pumpkin guts!

http://www.garvick.com/recipes-ms/hal4m111.htm
Of course, you may prefer this classic dessert instead.

http://www.geocities.com/Athens/Parthenon/7039/AshlinCC.html
A collection of Samhain recipes for you. Um. The second one? Please don't eat it. Or drink it, for that matter. My ~favorite~ one I want to try (as soon as possible) is the seventh one down. An odd coincidence, since this is the seventh link for tonight.

http://www.morbidoutlook.com/lifestyle/askwitchhazel/2000_10_witchhazel.html
Here's a whole meal for the vegans among us. That soup sounds delish to me. (Really--try making pumpkin soup sometime. OhWowGOOD stuff, that!)

http://crystalforest3.homestead.com/recipesamhainswpotpumpshell.html
Here's a combination of two things I dearly love.

http://www.unc.edu/%7Ereddeer/recipe/rec_samhain.html
I scream, you scream, we all scream for Pumpkin Ice Cream! Just scroll or click the link for that particular one, and enjoy the rest.

http://www.thatsmyhome.com/farmers/samhaim.htm
Normally, I don't eat cooked carrots. This recipe, though, combines sweet and spice and heat in a very intriguing way.

http://www.pagandad.com/2008/10/samhain-recipes-meat.html
I consider this a comfort food absolutely perfect for this season.

http://www.wicca.com/celtic/akasha/samhaintnrecip.htm
The recipes here seem geared towards teens. All to the good--everyone should learn to cook as far as I'm concerned. And the fried cornmeal mush sounds heavenly.

May you feast your stomach as well as your eyes!

Link Set 11.

2009-10-11T21:52:52Z

Don't feed the bears....

http://myths.freshcaffeine.com/2006/11/empusa_empusae_pl.html
Don't mess with the Gods.

http://www.xomba.com/jenglot_little_monster_and_mysterious_creatures
*just arches an eyebrow* This is possibly the most disjointed site I've ever posted.

http://cryptozoo.monstrous.com/the_yowie.htm
While I don't think I'd like to meet this creature, I do like the name.

http://www.unmuseum.org/kraken.htm
So, anyone want to guess what movie I saw recently?

http://www.theserenedragon.net/Types/types-amphiptere.html
There are different kinds of dragon, too.

http://www.avians.net/paragon/glatisant.htm
This is a fascinating monster you don't hear about much these days.

http://itotd.com/articles/636/the-woodwose/
Much cooler name than Big Foot.

http://www.hecklerspray.com/awesome-or-off-putting-jack-in-irons/200939162.php
Another one Ms. Hamilton uses in her writing. Research is wonderful. Writer's privilege is as well.

http://www.paranormality.com/teggie.shtml
Makes you wonder if they're real with so many similar creatures in legends in so many different places. Although Wales and Scotland aren't too far apart.

http://www.newanimal.org/beastgev.htm
There's a lot of room to research this creature. So many possibilities.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sandwalker
I think Syfy made a movie about this thing.

http://www.unknownexplorers.com/peryton.php
THIS thing freaks me out. And the site's header is way cool, although not strictly related to the topic at hand! *L*

http://en.allexperts.com/e/u/un/underwater_panther.htm
An interesting creature, this. don't want to offer it catnip, though. I like my fingers.

I hope everyone enjoyed this little trip to the petting zoo.
Until tomorrow--have fun!

Link Set 10.

2009-10-10T23:05:57Z

Hello, my fearsome fanged friends!

Well, actually I hope none of you really do have fangs, but the alliteration is nice, don't you think?

I'm sure you can guess what this set's all about.

http://victorian-fiction.suite101.com/article.cfm/mina_harker_in_bram_stokers_dracula
But ladies first, hmmm?

http://www.ufodigest.com/news/0209/vrykolakas.php
I thought this year, I'd focus on something other than the Dracula-esque vampire we all know and love (while wearing a sturdy Algernon's Collar about our throats, of course).

http://www.monstropedia.org/index.php?title=Strigoi
Romanian vampires are fascinating.

http://www.agonyagogo.com/penina.html
In the old D&D Monsters Manual, this particular creature was listed. I'm told it had to be taken out for being too gruesome.

http://www.answers.com/topic/lamia
An interesting sort of creature to me.

http://www.monstropedia.org/index.php?title=Strix
Hey! Screechies aren't scary! *L*

http://www.whiterosesgarden.com/Vampyres/VAMP_psychiatry/VAMP_clinical_vampirism.htm
Yes Virginia--vampires DO exist.

http://www.suite101.com/article.cfm/mythology/118872
So many different kinds!

http://chscarlett.wordpress.com/2008/10/17/types-of-vampires-baital/
There seems to be at least one variety for every culture in the whole world. Including India.

http://everything2.com/title/Baobhan+Sith
In the book Goblin Moon, trolls have a "deformity" in the form of some animalistic feature. A clawed, scaly paw instead of a hand, or a horses's leg complete with hoof. I wonder if Ms. Edgerton researched these ladies and used them as inspiration?

http://www.deliriumsrealm.com/delirium/articleview.asp?Post=21
I need to share this with Mom, since her birthday falls within the "zone".

http://archiver.rootsweb.ancestry.com/th/read/IRISH-NEW-YORK-CITY/2004-10/1099177597
I'd never heard of this poor lady until I did this year's research. So sad!

http://theunexplainedmysteries.com/Incubus.html
Quite clear why Ms. Hamilton used these creatures as inspiration.

B0NUS LINK!!!! Because I just love you guys. And because links are cool.

http://lemuriangypsies.blogspot.com/2005/09/watch-out-for-mulo-on-all-hallows-eve.html
I did say every culture, did I not? Fascinating!

I hope tonight's guest list of sanguinary connoisseurs intrigues you. Remember to scatter the rice before your thresholds and hang your garlic curtains tonight, my dears!

Because I can and it's traditional by now.

2009-10-10T00:38:20Z

My LiveJournal Trick-or-Treat Haul
corielena goes trick-or-treating, dressed up as corielena.
alpha_strike gives you 5 brown orange-flavoured gummy bats.
brigidsblest gives you 4 yellow chocolate-flavoured pieces of taffy.
cwsensation gives you 4 light blue licorice-flavoured jawbreakers.
erickajo tricks you! You get a toothbrush.
innowen gives you 13 tan licorice-flavoured pieces of bubblegum.
kefiraahava tricks you! You lose 16 pieces of candy!
kenderbunny tricks you! You lose 6 pieces of candy!
mutantenemy gives you 9 milky white coffee-flavoured nuggets.
pisceskitty gives you 2 yellow pineapple-flavoured gumdrops.
pookajuice gives you 15 light blue cinnamon-flavoured pieces of bubblegum.
corielena ends up with 30 pieces of candy, and a toothbrush.
Go trick-or-treating! Username:
Another fun meme brought to you by rfreebern.

Link Set 8.

2009-10-08T21:48:58Z

Perhaps the campfire tales are a little too weak for your tastes. Perhaps, you'd enjoy something with a bit more bite? Tonight's offering may satisfy that need.

A plus is that some of these aren't fictional at all....

http://urbanlegendsonline.com/bridges_subwaystare.html
She was probably flattered at first.

http://www.halloween-website.com/spiders_in_hair.htm
And yet, to kill them in bad luck.

http://www.reuters.com/article/newsOne/idUSTRE54A5WL20090511
Ow! Really glad I'm not male. Poor guy.

http://www.progressiveu.org/115405-wash-that-bra-before-you-wear-it
Especially if you buy used.

http://www.breakthechain.org/exclusives/toiletspiders.html
It's still bad luck to kill them!

http://www.americanfolklore.net/folktales/tx5.html
This one is a true ~classic~ of the genre.

http://www.themorningnews.org/archives/spoofs_satire/the_backseat_killer.php
Another classic, and one I personally find creepier than the one just before it.

http://hubpages.com/hub/Urban-Legend-The-Dead-Boyfriend
How many horror movies has a variant of this been in?

http://www.topix.com/forum/city/corona-ca/TB31HFLGDGTISTNQH
This is another one commonly found in various shows. I've seen it in a Twilight Zone episode and--I think--Tales from the Darkside. But now you can go to the real place.

http://www.thebabywebsite.com/community/viewtopic.php?f=19&t=20934&start=0&st=0&sk=t&sd=a
A mother's love will not be denied.

http://www.snopes.com/horrors/gruesome/bodybed.asp
All the freakier for being true.

http://www.bumpzinthenite.com/?page_id=548
Another one that makes a girl cringe just a little bit.

http://www.castleofspirits.com/humans.html
Now if this happened to me, I'd freak. I don't have a dog at the moment.

I hope you enjoyed these links tonight. I'll see you tomorrow, with another set!