cornerofmadness

Turns out the hernia was large, large enough that the surgeon commented more than once. Way to over achieve Dad. I couldn't shut him up tonight. Apparently narcotics turn him into a chatty cathy. I told mom to keep him doped up.

I gave 2 tests today. Honestly I think 4 people out of the 30 were prepared. Utterly abysmal. This class is bad, just bad. Most of them barely come to class. LIterally everything is more important than their education. I had one today who cavalierly tells me she couldn't make the 'quiz' and could she take it thursday. I pointed out that all make up tests are comprehensive and given during finals week (since they're already studying for one) and you can only miss one, as per the syllabus. Can't wait until wed IF she even shows up. I adopted this policy (held by other professors) when last year 4 people missed every test and wanted a make up a few days later. It's a shame.

But onto happier things, I'm working on the cover to my nano novel (okay getting things ready so I can whine at

evil_little_dog so she can do it since she has photoediting software that's better than mine). I have decided to go ahead with the 1930s demon hunter story. It would be a shame NOT to capitalize on the 4 star rating the novella currently enjoys. So I need YOUR help. Under the cut are a series of photos from Pittsburgh in the 1930s that I would like to use with explanations. I found a site hosted by the University of Pittsburgh that had over 3400 photos from the 1800's til today. I went through 600 of them last night before I started getting too modern for my story which is set the last week of 1931 and January 1932. I'd like to get votes on which picture you like best. Right now the title is Soldiers of the Sun until something better comes along. It'll be the title I use in Nano. THANKS for the help

A. aerial view of Oakland where U of Pitt AND the Soldiers of the Sun headquarters are.

B. Oakland street view. I like the brickwork and the street car tracks.

C. Oakland street view. THis is even in the same month and year the story is set.

D. Penn Station. This is down town. Probably will get used at some point. Random: my next door neighbor's sister moved into the tower in the 90's when it was converted into apts.

E. Squirrel Hill, a very rich area, predominately Jewish. I know they'll be going up there at some point (here and Shady Side once they realize millionaires are behind it).

F. I've seen this listed as 1930 and 1933. Either way, at first the villains are culling the unemployment lines. THis is less city view than I'd like but it's also poignant.

Speaking of writing, got this from Women Who Write's tweet. Some writer friends resist and protest the need for time on social media. In the 21st century it's like refusing to use a phone. That is so true.

Happy Thanksgiving to my Canadian friends!!

and here's my henna for this year's renn fest. Usually i get something traditional but then i saw this little drake and had to have him.