Hello 
I'm Siobhan Curran/Kisa Naumova, and this is my weblog. I tend to write about stuff like crossdressing, Macs, code, cats, wine and Second Life, but in general it's just an ongoing conversation about all sorts of stuff. If you'd like to know a little bit more about what this all is, I recommend starting on this page which has a little bit of info on who I am, and what I'm trying to do — or you could dive into my five years worth of archives if you like.
Otherwise, feel free to close this box and explore...
Please Excuse Me While I Panic A Little
I'm not, I imagine, the only person in the world with Lots To Do™ right about now. I understand that there's some kind of winter-festival-holiday thingy going on, and that most of the country are pounding away at their credit cards, buying ridiculous crap for people who will no doubt turn their noses up, and moan "But I wanted the pink one"
(Or maybe that's just me 
)
But, having said that, with my upcoming trip to Chicago, to see The Woman I Love And Adore™, I've obviously got quite a few things to sort out, and dammit why does there have to be an inconvenient holiday in the way?
"Too much to do!" I moaned, to a colleague, a few minutes ago.
"Make a list!" he helpfully retorted.
So, in the time-honoured tradition of this (and every other blog out there), I'm going to subject you to my List Of Things I Need To Do For Going To Be With Thaumata™
*ahem* /me clears throat...
Biscuit — I have either got to befriend the neighbours, or find a kitty-hotel for two weeks. My wallet is begging me to do the former.
Trinkets — As much as I've been told not to get anything, I'll be buggered if I'm turning up at Chicago airport without fulfilling the role of Visitor From Overseas Bringing Strange Obscure Things From Their Country™.
Tea-bags are number one on the list of possibilities for that.
Pack — Hmm. Idiot-here has left her two big suitcases in the loft in Lancaster, full of ridiculous dresses. May need to borrow from sister.
Cash— How fantastic is the exchange-rate at the moment?
[Edit: done
]Presents — my family never expect things from me — because they've decided a long time ago that I Am Crap™. There will probably be a last-minute dash to an off licence on Monday, but I do have to think of something impressive for my nephew. I don't really want to be Shit Auntie Siobhan™
Hmmm. Drumkit...
...
You know, that's not actually that bad. I can probably do all that tomorrow
Right now though, I'm off to the pub¹.
¹ I know, I'm always off to the pub. But it's a colleague's leaving do, and seeing as how he was the one that got me here in the first place, I feel I rather owe it to him to at least buy him a pint.
Be careful if you bring Marmite, might get stuck in customs over there. 
You could say it's Welsh soy. Not sure it may help, though, come to think of it.
Or take Bovril as well. While the US customs experience that one, you might get the Marmite through.
Sin Trenton
Take Marmite — the perfect accompaniment to Peanut Butter
Remember that part where I was like, "Don't worry about packing anything. You can steal my clothes and use my shampoo and eat our food...?" I really meant that.
I heard tales that my seven year old niece is very nervous and upset that you are coming and she doesn't have a present for you. I mean, she was begging my sister to take her out so she can get you something. I had some quiet time with her tonight (while we were watching Christmas Vacation, which naturally made me think of you) and told her that she just needs to smile and make you feel welcome, no presents required. I think I got her all straightened out.
I have no idea how to straighten you out. They don't drink tea and won't eat Marmite. Bring them your sense of humor instead. They actually NEED that. xoxo
Oh, also, I shopped for twenty people in less than two days, literally. You can do it! I have faith in you!
Thau: Shopping for 20 people in less than two days!!!! OMG!!! You must be superwoman!! Or else you have the magical power of love helping you
Kisa/Siobhan (see, I still don't know what to call you in here!): Slow down, breathe deeply and it will all get done. After all, you have the magical power of love on your side too
Seriously, you guys, have a wonderful Christmas with your families and an amazing New Year together. Can't wait to read 'Kisa and Thau's Chicago Adventure'!
Christmas hugs to you both.
@Kisa : You strike me as the kind of person that secretly thrives on pressure, just go with it and be amazed at what you got done, and not worry about what you don't. So long as you get Biscuit sorted the rest really is purely optional. Oh, and no drumkit! It's all very well being "Very Cool Auntie Siobhan" but then you also get to be "Going To Kill That Bloody Sibling Siobhan" instead and you really don't want that, trust me!
@Thau : That thing about your niece is very cool and made my day. Kids have a talent for expressing love and acceptance that most of us forget. She sounds like a really sweet kid.
@Phoenix : I am buzzed about hearing about this trip too. We better get lots of pics and blog posts about it!
RE: #2. Bring Marmite. We think that stuff is really weird.