I haven't heard her purr in a couple weeks, but that's part I wouldn't be able to hear it over the breathing and part I'm not sure she can. She can still mouth off, though.

I'm still not sure precisely how and why cats purr (I remain convinced they are just full of bees) but the trouble breathing might be inhibiting the purring physically. Mouthy cats still communicate pretty effectively.

I'm pretty sure whatever is causing her issues inhibists purring. Sucks, but there it is.

Happy Birthday, Anne!!

this is the most awesome thing I have read in the month of January (online):

[link]

you must read it.

It's like a horrific love song to eHow. Also, hilarious.

Hah, that was awesome.

For those of you who use Zulily: I have had more than one issue lately with broken items, and shipments gone awry. While their customer service has responded, the shipment issue is one they seem unable to correct no matter how many times they tell me it is taken care of. While they give refunds since they cannot replace things, I am still left pretty annoyed with them because I am having to put in claims, track down and/or deal with broken items.

Buyer beware. I don't think it is worth my time anymore.

Thank goodness I have other projects in addition to the PR clusterfuck: I just sent one email, got a response, forwarded it to someone here who replied, "You're my hero." If only it were always that easy!

So, anyone here know what a mustache spoon is?

[link]

Mustache and soup don't mix (especially when the custom of the day is to wax one's 'stache), so what's a moustachioed Victorian gentleman to do? Well, they eat soup with Moustache Spoon.

Jesse, if you don't already, create a mail folder or filter or whatever called "kudos" and stick that e-mail in there along with any other glowing responses. It is great to be able to pull up the positive stuff when you have a crap-ass day or when you are doing a self-evaluation. Hard evidence that you are awesome.