My theme – I have selected a word for each day and will present to you blogger buddies who fit that description, along with movies, music, etc. My theme is to give back, highlight some awesome bloggers, and have fun in the process.
JESTER
Gail posts pictures of her farm critters every day, and a cute or funny line accompanies each photo. I started leaving my own snappy comeback in the comments, and thus our humorous sparring was born. Sometimes I get the touché and sometimes Gail earns the honor. But it’s all in fun, as Gail is just the sweetest woman. I think most days she is just humoring me!
TS is a man of comedy. His 7-Word Weekend feature highlights new movie releases and occasionally we get to hear what cats are thinking. (Poor Melvin!) Recently the Dinosaur Party Debates were going on as prehistoric presidential candidates vied for our votes. So for a little fun at the expense of dinosaurs, movies, and Melvin, visit jester TS!
While recording their amazing third disc, “The Jester Race,” two of the members of In Flames came up with a symbol that has appeared in some incarnation on all of their covers and merchandise. In Flames has been shredding since 1990 and their latest release “Sounds of a Playground Fading” is one of my favs.
NINJA NEWS!
My buddy Sean’s book is now available in print! For more information on A Fine Likeness, visit Civil War Horror He’s also offering to request your book at his library if you will do the same.
Another blogger buddy alerted me to this one: Jones Party of 5 is offering a contest for a customized blog layout including header graphic.
And I was thinking about doing a giveaway for the person with the most first comment here, but I’d really hate to see anyone hurt themselves…
Following Gail and TS? Familiar with In Flames? (Probably not!) Any news I missed? Still having fun with the Challenge? Who is the jester in your life? Come on, we all know at least one fool. I mean, jester!!!
I finally get to be first on Captain Ninja's blog? Just maybe if no one comments right before I finish writing this. :)
ReplyDeleteI will definitely have to check out Gail and TS, they sound like a lot of fun.
In Flames is a group I have not listened to, but will definitely make sure I do.
I am my own jester. I'm a real pain when I take myself too seriously so I've trained myself to laugh at myself as often as possible.
ReplyDeleteNo kidding, one could get trampled in the stampede. I'm just amazed to find myself among the first ten...
ReplyDeleteI love how supportive you are to SO many writers, Alex. It's uplifting & inspiring... And I've LOVED reading the A-Z posts... Some people are SO CLEVER ;)
ReplyDeleteLove the J word. I think there are alot of us around.
ReplyDeleteGreat post.
Yvonne.
Jester? that would probably be my husband. Son and I now recognize his setup lines. Where ever we go,hubs usually comes up with something.
ReplyDeleteSia McKye OVER COFFEE
No, I was not familiar with In Flames. I am learning so much during this A-Z blogfest.
ReplyDeleteLove the symbol In Flames came up with! I do not follow Gail and TS yet! I may very well be the jester in my own life, haha.
ReplyDeleteShannon at The Warrior Muse, co-host of the 2012 #atozchallenge! Twitter: @AprilA2Z
I wouldn't start making the first comment a challenge, unless you wanna see me totally battle people out for it. I'm a wee bit competitive, I am.
ReplyDeleteI don't follow these people, but I must. Laughing is one of my favorite things to do. :)
Thank you good sir! It is indeed an honor to be numbered among your blogging buddies. I've enjoyed checking out your other recommendations during the blogfest and will have to check out Gail's blog. Cheers!
ReplyDeleteAll new folks to me. I'll have to make the rounds. My husband has always been the (unintentional) jester in my life. I could fill a book of silly Eric-isms. SNAP! Now there's an idea!!
ReplyDeleteOoh, I don't know any of these people! I will have to pay them a visit!
ReplyDeleteHmm, I'll have to check out those blogs...
ReplyDeleteAnd yup, the challenge is a mighty challenge, but lots of fun.
Gail and TS both sound like a lot of fun! Loved your line about the "first comment giveaway!" Julie
ReplyDeleteGreat giveaway over at Party of 5. I think my wee bloggy and I are in desperate need of a facelift.
ReplyDeleteI think I would have to say my father has been the jester for me but my son is following closely in his footsteps. Awesome Challenge Alex!
ReplyDeleteMelissa, you are first!! You'll dig In Flames.
ReplyDeleteHelena, that's probably true of many of us.
Patricia, you must've stayed up really late.
Morgan, thanks, and some of the posts have been amazing.
Sia, at least you are prepared.
Shannon. isn't it cool?
Cassie, yes, it might get ugly!
TS, you are most welcome!
Nancy, make it so!
Julie, some of them are vicious!
Lass, I like the way your blog looks.
I like jesters who can make me laugh! Off to check them out!
ReplyDeleteJ.C. Martin
A to Z Blogger
I'm going to be predictable and say Ray!
ReplyDeleteSomebody knows what cats are thinking? Huh. This must be a truly remarkable person.
ReplyDeleteI think my father's the jester of the family. He gets the weirdest ideas, like putting raw eggs in people's shoes when they visit. There are other ones, but making jokes is an all time favorite of his:)
ReplyDeleteSome people seem to comment so fast that I think they have them pre-written. Can you schedule comments? That would be funny.
ReplyDeleteFollowing Gail and TS?
ReplyDelete- No sorry!! (hands head in shame!!)
Familiar with In Flames? (Probably not!)
- like when something is on fire?!? Ahem!
Any news I missed?
- I bought a new pair of shoes?
Still having fun with the Challenge?
-Life is one big challenge! LOL!
Who is the jester in your life?
- Charlie! But I think it's unintentional! LOL!
Take care
x
p.s. it's Hangs!! Hangs head in shame! oh - shame on me!LOL!
ReplyDeletex
What an honor! Thank you, Alex. If you don't make me smile, you don't get a toche. Your humor is delightful and quick. I enjoy our sparring.
ReplyDeleteGreat J word!
ReplyDeleteI've been up since 3:00 AM but I had to just sit there as I'm sharing a room at the RT convention. I should have woken everyone else up with my laptop so I could've been first. I'll let them know that Alex wants me to blog at 3:00AM so I can be first on his blog tomorrow. :) Oh, lets see if my roommate Lynn Rush catches this comment today. I love stirring up trouble. :)
ReplyDeletefamiliar with flames - fraid not
ReplyDeleteLOL, and I'm pretty sure people hurt themselves trying to comment first here regardless! :o) I so could totally be first every day. I have the time difference advantage! ;o)
ReplyDelete*breaks neck racing to be the first* That will never happen. I can't get up early enough.
ReplyDeleteI know several jesters. (The family tree is full of 'em)
I'll check out your pals, cuz I am not following any of them.
*waving*
I have mentioned the Jester honor bestowed on me on my other blog, At The Farm. Thanks again.
ReplyDeleteI'm always looking for new blogs, (following already), new music (must investigate) and good books. (Sean? Hm, it must be a good one then)
ReplyDeleteBrinda, and they think funny thoughts as well!
ReplyDeleteMarta, that's sneaky.
Rusty, you are welcome to try!
Kitty, I bet Charlie would say YOU!
Gail, the sentiment is shared!
Ciara, you could always sneak into the bathroom.
Jessica, you're welcome to try, but no injuries please.
Thanks, Gail!
I do follow Gail.. and just so you know I read your last 5 posts but am commenting here, hope you don't mind. I love the fact you share the wealth with other bloggers. Such a captain you are. :)
ReplyDeleteJules @ Trying To Get Over The Rainbow
Never been to Julie, but funny animal captions are always good. TS is hilarious.
ReplyDelete@Melissa, being on Arizona time means I'll never be first;)
I'm not sure I can stay up late enough or get up early enough to be the first to comment on your posts!
ReplyDeleteOne day, sir.
One day.
Familiar with Gail but not TS! Going to check him out now.
Thanks, Alex!
Heather
Yes, I know Gail of Familiar Spirits. Even though I comment on her other blog At the Farm, I hover on Familiar Spirits reading her humorous captions to her photos. She is witty and an interesting writer to read.
ReplyDeleteTeresa
Thanks for some new blogs to check-out! Yes, still having fun with the challenge, but the emails keep piling up...but that's good, because it means a lot of comments. I am definitely the jester. Embarrassing stories of things I've done abound.
ReplyDeleteTina @ Life is Good
Co-Host of the April A to Z Challenge
Twitter: @AprilA2Z #atozchallenge
"Shredding since 1990..." They should write that on all their covers.
ReplyDeleteAnd the only way I even came close to being first commenter on your blog was to travel five thousand miles and cross several time zones. :)
I'm guessing I might be the Jester...
ReplyDeleteNote to self: increase dignity and seriousness.
Woohoo, ya gotta love that Miss Gail. Did ya know I've had the pleasure of meetin' this sweet soul and we hugged and laughed and hugged!!!
ReplyDeleteYep, on the way back from Brownsville, Tx. Farm Boy and I hunted her down. Well, not in a creepy stalkin' sorta way. :o)
I love livin' on the non~serious side of the tracks...life is too short to take too seriously. Heeehehehe!
God bless ya Man and have a terrific day!!!
Today I definitely know nothing.
ReplyDeleteI'll be jumping over to visit Gail and TS today for sure. (And when I see TS like that, I don't think of Eliot, but Quints from MALLRATS. Hangs head in shame.)
ReplyDeleteHonestly, I'm glad I'm not the jester, because I'm afraid I'd be classified as the Foole (props to George Carlin) rather than a true jesting spirit.
Will check out the blogs mentioned, have found a lot of good reads to follow in the challenge on my own have days wondering "are we there yet?"
ReplyDeleteHow are you doing, Alex? You must be so tired. I don't have half as many blogs to visit and I'm exhausted. You're doing really well.
ReplyDeleteHi Alex! I featured the Joker for my J. I heading over to visit Gail's blog.
ReplyDeleteMy younger son is our family clown. Also class clown in 2nd grade...not as good a thing, but at least he's really smart.
ReplyDeleteIt's a good thing you didn't do the giveaway. You could have had trampling going on when you unlocked the doors...
ReplyDeleteThere are so many good blogs with interesting things in this A to Z!
Jules, thanks!
ReplyDeleteMaurice, you might if you stay up late. I've been posting at 1 am.
Heather, one day!
Tina, and we appreciate you handling the emails.
LG, thanks for the extra effort!
Bryan, why start now?
Nezzy, you are so lucky!
Joshua, I think you're funny.
Thanks, Clarissa. I am really trying!
Mina, great minds think alike.
Laura, it would've been ugly...
I haven't heard of In Flames before.
ReplyDeleteAnd yeah, someone might get hurt if you did the first comment giveaway. ;)
Oh wow. Could you imagine 1490 people all vying for the first comment spot? We might just crash the internet!
ReplyDeleteGreat J! I still have to come up with mine, lol.
Well, there goes me knowing the people you are blogging about... maybe tomorrow :)
ReplyDeleteI do love your theme posts this year. I should have done something like that as mine are all over the place. I feel like that "junk drawer" in your kitchen that you throw everything in to. Maybe next year I'll be more organized!
ReplyDeletelol! my brother is the Jester. He always has to be the center of attention making everyone laugh. Makes me roll my eyes every time :)
ReplyDeleteYep! I follow Gail and TS. Thanks again for highlighting other bloggers during the Challenge. I have followed suit. I think this is a great idea!
ReplyDeleteI am going to check out TS's blog!
ReplyDeleteIf you are going to do a first comment give-a-way it really needs to be announced a week in advance. That way some of us can plan our strategy and properly stalk your blog for the exact second it goes live.
ReplyDeleteI bet there would be a lot of broken fingers if you held a giveaway like that! :)
ReplyDeleteI tried some In Flames, but to be honest, I prefer the 90's-style chugging to the harmony leads. Whsat can I say; I'm a rhythm guy.
ReplyDeleteI'm not following them, but I will go check them out.
ReplyDeleteI actually have heard of In Flames. Evil In A Closet and Trigger are on my 'get inspired' play list. Perhaps not your typical inspirational songs, but they get my creativity flowing. :)
And my uncle is totally a jester. Course, I think it's not 100% intentional.
I love the word Jester. I have since hearing it in American Pie (Don Mclean) when I was just a kid.
ReplyDeleteI see that I officially screwed up and am off a day. I am on letter I. I noticed a few others are as well. I know we were told when to blog and I swear I understood the instructions, but something happened to my brain on Saturday after blogging for six consecutive days and I thought we took Saturday off. My mistake.
Should I post two letters on the same day to catch up or wait until Sunday and not take that day off?? Any suggestions?
Some great places to visit. Thanks.
ReplyDeleteToday I feel like the white rabbit in Alice in Wonderland:
ReplyDelete"No time to say hello, goodbye, I'm late, I'm late, I'm late!"
Not sure if I can visit all the blogs in the limited time between work and cinema with a dinner break in the middle.
In Flame delivers music just after my fancy.
It's wonderful how you link us all together.
ReplyDeleteI'm excited to check out Gail's blog. I've got to see those animal pictures. Sounds like fun! :)
ReplyDeleteDonna, it could happen!
ReplyDeleteLiz, your posts have been fun!
Stephen, Lee is doing it as well. I've started a trend.
Michael, you guys might make my blog implode!
Julie, probably.
Kela, you rock!
Melissa, most people just do two in one post to catch up. Don't worry, no big deal!
Thanks, Jen.
Edi, some days I don't know how I manage to keep up. And some days I just don't.
Thank you, Kittie.
I never get to be first. Story of my life.
ReplyDeletemood
Thanks for the rec Alex. Going to check them out. Love the idea of morning pics of farm animals.
ReplyDeleteHow cool that you picked the word "Jester" for J and have featured three jester blogging buds! I come from a family of jesters. The grandkids are already showing signs of following in the family traditions!
ReplyDeleteJester for "J" is a nice choice.
ReplyDeleteMy jesters are my kids. They never cease to make me laugh (and cry). :)
Dang. I'm not familiar with any of those blogs. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteYou are a great friend to all of us out here in blogland. Thanks, Alex! Helena is right. We have to be our jester some days! Roland
ReplyDeleteI love a good jester! I'll go check them out. My husband and son keep me laughing!
ReplyDeleteSo happy to hear A Fine Likeness is in print! Wanted to get a copy for my dad and was going to send to step mother's kindle and have him read and on and on and on. Now, I can just buy it!
ReplyDeleteOnly you can pack this much info into a small space! lol
ReplyDeleteLots to check out. Thanks for highlighting these people, Alex! I've met a lot of new folks through you.
ReplyDeleteThe jester in my life is my dog Shiner. He's the biggest goofball I know :)
ReplyDeleteCan I return Tim's sentiment and say I too love my first blogging buddy.
ReplyDeleteI don't visit half as often as before but he doesn't mind, sweet guy.' Pictures, did you say, then worth a check, very few bloggers in a-z who are into photography.
In Flames? I tend to stay away from scary looking bands and albums, weak heart and all.
I am unaware of any of the things you highlighted today. I'll check them out tomorrow though, today my head feels like it's about to explode!
ReplyDeleteMoody, it's all right!
ReplyDeleteLynn, I'll have to check out your jesters.
Roland, yes we do.
Tracy, Sean will be happy to hear that!
Wendy, because I'm a man of few words...
Rek, that makes him special.
The truth is that it is wonderful Melodic Death Metal In Flames. Greetings.
ReplyDeleteFollowing already! :)
ReplyDeleteI'm sure your comment count in the moments after you posted would have gone through the roof, though, if you had done that!
Jester -love that word. And as Shakespeare said, "Better a witty fool than a foolish wit!" - 12th Night
ReplyDeleteI love the Non-Review! It is not only one of my favorite blogs, the blogger (Tim), is one of nicest and most creative people you'll ever meet. Nice post Alex! I'll check out the other folks you mentioned.
ReplyDeleteI do follow Gail but not sure about TS.
ReplyDeleteI'll have to check out those blogs. Thanks. :)
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteYay - more new people - phew :)
ReplyDeleteI'd have to be up in the middle of the night to be first at your place I think - I'm up for that :)
Nearly at 1500 followers Alex!!!
Lx
Alex, I'll check out Gail and T. S.
ReplyDeleteThanks,
Monti
Right now I'm drained after a tremendous week long visit from my daughters and granddaughters. Today I'm wavering between trying to catch up with blogging and periodic naps. Whew!
ReplyDeleteLee
A Few Words
An A to Z Co-host blog
I always love stopping by here. It's like walking into a party where the host makes sure everyone is introduced and having fun. :)
ReplyDeleteYes, Jester, not Fool! Congrats on Sean's book! A Civil War horror sounds pretty unique and amazing. :)
ReplyDeleteAlways on a lookout for a good laugh. Thanks for the info. :)
ReplyDeleteI don't know these bloggers. I'll have to check out their blogs. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteLots of 'Jesters' posted today and they scare me almost as much as clowns. :shudders:
ReplyDeleteGoing to check out the new blogs...
Leovi, glad you like them!
ReplyDeleteGolden, it might crash my blog!
Pat, TS is really cool.
Laura, just ten more - whoa!
Lee, I'm about to go take a nap!
Carrie, thank you for stopping by then!
Jaycee, they are both creepy.
TS has been one of my favorites since days of 'ole (i.e., 2009/10 or so). Glad you highlighted his blog. I'm still scheming to adopt Melvin. I have a weakness for sweet, pathetic males who clearly just need some loving.
ReplyDeleteNow, too check out Gail's blog. Thanks, Alex.
xoRobyn
I wondered what word you were going to choose for J! Great choices :)
ReplyDeleteCongrats to Sean, i just started following Civil War Horror. News? no time for news with the A to Z in full swing!
ReplyDeleteWhat you need to do is, at the end of the 'fest, gather up all the links to all the blogs you've spotlighted and post them again all in one post. Maybe -then- I'll have to go back and make sure I visited all of them!
ReplyDeleteJesters! I could use a few laughs. I'll go check them out.
ReplyDeletePlay off the Page
The first thing that came to mind when I read your J word was Top Gun, "Come on Jester, let's see what you've got." Then I saw it was just TS at the Non-Review getting a plug! I love Melvin and know some day he will be able to take off his melon-helmet!
ReplyDeleteHeading over to see those farm pics!
ReplyDeletePopping in to say "Thank you" for being such a devoted host (and following a guy who isn't participating in A to Z this time). I'll hopefully have your book finished with a review next week for you. You'll be pleased, I think. :)
ReplyDeleteJust popping over to say hi. Not doing A to Z. Hope you're having an awesome week! What a fun theme, to highlight other bloggers!
ReplyDeleteI think my oldest stepson is a real jester in our family though everyone has their moments.
ReplyDeleteRobyn, he would be so happy if you adopted him!!
ReplyDeleteLisa, I know - hard to keep up.
Andrew, I might do that...
Chuck, I think he will wear it forever...
David, thank you!!!
Alexia, I've really missed you.
Hi...I'm hopping over from the A to Z Challenge. Lovely blog...good luck with the challenge!
ReplyDeleteDonna L Martin
www.donasdays.blogspot.com
There is far more than just one jester in my life. I surround myself with them, so I don't seem as big a fool. (It sometimes even works!)
ReplyDeleteI love blog promoting. I'm glad to see T.S. is still ticking peoples' fancies.
ReplyDeleteThe jester here is me.
ReplyDeleteLaughter is the medicine for the soul, and I the doctor.
I'm the guy at the wake who tells people that the lower part of the casket is closed because the corpse is wearing a speedo.
I hope one day when I'm gone, those I leave behind say the same about me. Whatever gets them through the grief.
=]V[=
The Brew Newb
I went and said hi to TS!
ReplyDeleteMy Dad is the jester in my life. I don't think it's possible to take him seriously. Even at work he's the jester.
Think I would have to stay up really late to be first commenter. Does the prize include cake? I may consider it if it does! :P
ReplyDeleteAnother great post Alex! This Challenge has been so much fun! :)
ReplyDeleteHow funny, my "J" post was actually on the subject of jesters! LOL
ReplyDeleteCool way to highlight various blogs - will check out your recommendations.
Jess http://jesstopper.wordpress.com
Hi Alex .. I'd 'lost' Gail's Familiar Animals somewhere along the line - so good to be back in touch with her ..
ReplyDeleteExcellent that you're promoting cool, or jesting bloggers - cheers Hilary
Nate, I think it works.
ReplyDeleteMatt, that's funny.
Anna, I'm not sure yet.
Hilary, somehow I now follow her twice!
I checked out Gail's blog of animals and left some comments.
ReplyDeleteHappy blogging!
Susanne
PUTTING WORDS DOWN ON PAPER