User talk:ThatPeskyCommoner

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Granny Pesky's animal sanctuary and Mandatory Truce Zone

I still haven't been able to work out whether the Wikipedia Script was written as a surrealist modern tragedy, a cautionary tale, or a sitcom; nor whether my own part is that weird genius in the basement, the disposable security officer who gets killed within seconds of beaming down, Falstaff, or just yer bog-standard cameo appearance or comic relief ... Perhaps, when all's said and done, I'll turn out to have been Gaspode, after all ...

And here's an interesting thing: if a group of researchers had been tasked to create a working / hobby environment specifically designed to attract high-functioning autistics, it's hard to see how they could have come up with anything better than Wikipedia! If anyone's curiosity is piqued by this idea, do this test! "normal" people score generally under 20, people with high-level math functions often score in the 20-30 range ... and remember, the autism spectrum isn't a threshold, it's a continuum. As with many things, high-functioning autism isn't a "disorder", it's a difference in thought-methods.


funny thing?

Did you see a user is interested in "dull disclosure" from arbcom?Elen, though meant as a tongue-in-cheek assessment, you are correct in stating that the information being both obvious and onwiki does not count as dull disclosure. Nobody Ent 02:01, 5 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

It's quite a good one, but not up to the standard we've come to know and love from the bestest WikiSlips ;P Pesky (talk) 21:13, 7 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

please refocus

You've done a good thing by encouraging a fellow editor User_talk:90.179.235.249#Hoping_to_be_able_to_help. The post on Jehochmann's page, and the lack of good faith "dreading the consequences, oh dear" implied on Elen's talk page are not good ideas. Yes, we are imperfect and, as a rule across the board, frequently treat IP editors poorly. But continued focus on a block from last month is not an effective strategy to address that. Nobody Ent 12:16, 7 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

(talk page stalker) Gotta agree here with the "not an effective strategy". There's nothing that can be done about that IP unless they decide to come back on their own. These things happen, and they will happen again: consider it an unfortunate friendly fire incident. There's no way to change anything that has already happened, and things weren't handled in a completely unacceptable way. When a referee makes a controversial call in a game/match, no amount of arguing reverses it. Especially after the instant replay is over. Doc talk 12:40, 7 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
I have taken those points on board. My concerns here are:
  1. that a wrong was done which could be righted
  2. that there's a lesson to be learned to try and ensure that this doesn't happen again
Yes, we all make mistakes; sometimes we'll each act in haste without sufficient background research. The most important thing to learn, from when something goes wrong, is how to avoid repetitions of the exact same thing. If we can't, as a community, accept when a wrong was done, try to right it insofar as that is possible, and resolve not to fall into the same trap again (the "snowball effect" of multiple small wrongs creating one very big wrong, with an editor driven off), then we, as a community, need to change. Pesky (talk) 13:08, 7 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
From what I saw, I rather thought that was the point you were making, rather than flogging one particular dead equine, which is how your comments seem to have been received. In other words, I think your focus is extremely valid, and broader than perceptions thus far have recognised. As for strategy, you have to start somewhere, somehow– I've been finding that a struggle myself, in a not-entirely-unrelated matter...! Nortonius (talk) 13:17, 7 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
I hate things like this. Being principle-centred means giving principles priority over personal comfort-zone stuff, though, and since I decided that the only way to have real integrity was to be principle-centred (something like 17+ years ago), doing the comfortable, allegedly-easy thing of turning my back, and pretending that nothing bad happened, and brushing it under the carpet, would ultimately leave me feeling far worse than digging my heels in and saying "No, there's an important principle at stake here." It's bloody uncomfortable, being principle-centred, but I would hate to be veering off into the other area. Pesky (talk) 13:25, 7 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
I've been quite far out of my comfort zone for the last week or two, trying to get Jimbo's attention (which I have to an extent), and posting at WP:NPT talk as well as en-help on IRC talk: I find it exhausting, mainly because my comfort zone is quite limited these days, and all those places are way outside it. I could go on, but don't want to side-track you or this thread; point is, you have my support, and I know what you mean! Nortonius (talk) 13:54, 7 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
I want a much bigger comfort zone, and / or more resilience and emotional strength! And I'm getting fed up with waiting for this damned neck operation; it keeps getting put back, and put back, and I have so little sensation left in my left hand :o( Pesky (talk) 14:17, 7 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
Ah, I'd been wondering about that, damn! That's bad news, really sorry to hear it. Chzz was asking after you, by the way; hope something happens for you pdq! Nortonius (talk) 15:01, 7 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

It's a bummer. Problems at C4, C5 and C6 are affecting the whole of my left arm, hand and shoulder, and the upper and middle sections of my back on the left hand side. Most of the skin over my left shoulder and the outer side of my left upper arm is numb, which is a bit concerning, as that's the dermatome supplied from the nerve root at C4. (Dermatome is the sensory bit). The functional bit of the C4 nerve root is used for breathing, among other things. There's a saying "Cut C4, breathe no more" which surgeons commit to memory ..., and I intensely dislike the fact that I obviously have some marked interference at the C4 nerve root. It's one of those things that one finds oneself pondering in the stilly hours of the night, but unlike the counting of sheep, it's decidedly not a cure for insomnia! Pesky (talk) 16:40, 7 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

Eek, that sounds really horrid! Hmm, hugz but hurry-up-thoughts at surgeons! I can imagine the frustration, I know about losing sleep, and I've woken up in the night with both arms dead due to sleeping on them(!), but I don't suppose I really have any idea what it's like for you... Hope they pull their fingers out soon! Nortonius (talk) 19:21, 7 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
Pass on a virtual-hug from me, next time you see / speak to him. He might be amused to know that Ankh-Morpork's four main food groups have something in common with discussion on the WT:RFA page. Pesky (talk) 13:59, 8 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
Mmmm burnt crunchy bits. WormTT · (talk) 14:09, 8 March 2012 (UTC) [reply]
Pesky, he may have emailed you, and not heard back? Keep in touch; best. 88.104.25.228 (talk) 00:42, 9 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
What a good point; I forget to check my emails! (They're on the other computer ...) I miss Chzz. He has much in common with many of us: passionate about the 'pedia, genius-level talent in some areas (teaching is one of his), some glitches, very misunderstood. Biggest cause of conflict in here, I think, is misunderstanding / misreading the other person. He's also very principle-driven. Pesky (talk) 07:06, 9 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
(comment from talk page lurker) It has been obvious to me from the very beginning that Pesky's focus is much wider than to re-hash one already-resolved incident. How can we come to use prior experiences as an example for future learning and betterment? I do think that the proper venue is perhaps the Village Pump, but in that case, there are so many tiny observations we can make, but in such a swamp of information and purposes, how can each individual concern be met?
Anyway, count me as supportive, therefore involved, and so subject to the criticism of being not an independent voice. Que sera sera; well, my voice does happen to be original, no one else would wish to claim it! NewbyG ( talk) 17:26, 9 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

About that IP user...

Hello Pesky,

I appreciate your letter. In relation to the editor with the Czech IP... Look, I accept the consensus that Czech IP is not the same person as Newbie and Doc...

Is the Czech IP the same person as the other party I named in the SPI, Roger P.? No-one else commented on the question -- the administrator who closed the SPI simply said that the question of Roger was "stale"... In other words, it doesn't matter whether the IP editor is Roger or not.

OK... Whoever the Czech IP person is, do their edits suggest that here is a newcomer to debate about Wikipedia? Or do they suggest that here is a person with strong views about WP, Jews and other topics, and confidence to express those views with some energy? And how do you he or she hasn't edited since? It is the nature of IP numbers that they don't necessarily stay the same, even if there is no attempt to disguise anything.

In short: I would suggest to you that the editor with the Czech IP is a strong willed individual who can probably get by without help or encouragement from me.... Kalidasa 777 (talk) 20:49, 7 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

I have to say I haven't a clue who Roger P is; never come across them before. Was Roger P. based in Czech country? The IP's edits date from 2009, and do all seem to be from the same person (as far as I can tell); that looks to me more like a static IP than a dynamic one, but I'm no expert on that. But, if they've been editing from that address since 2009, then it's obvious why they don't look like a newcomer – it's because they're not one. Regardless of any of that, I feel strongly that they really were put through the wringer there; I almost quit WP altogether in December myself, and I know of others who've quit (and some have been long-standing editors). Anyway, if you don't think there's anything you can do to reduce any damage done, then so be it, that's OK. Cheers, Pesky (talk) 21:10, 7 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
Yes, there is a long history of edits there from IP 90.179.235.249. Beginning in 2009 with this one, [1] where they tried to make the WP sandbox redirect to gay... Lots of edits labelled by bots (on the history pages and the list of contribs) as "section blanking", or "references removed", for example this one [2] which got reverted pretty quickly... And what about this one [3] that declares -- not as a quote, but in the voice of Wikipedia -- that Samuel Johnson's English dictionary is "a major cause of illiteracy"... Is this good faith editing, or the behavior of a troll??
Regarding Roger P, if you'd like to know more, please look at the archived SPIs about him at Wikipedia:Sockpuppet_investigations/Roger_Pearse/Archive. Kalidasa 777 (talk) 08:17, 8 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
Yes that is good sleuthing going back through the contributions like that. Finding some bad ones too, we can not be sure who made those old edits, IP addresses are shared over time. I had looked last month at recent activity on that address, and found that there were what appeared to be a pattern of good faith or attempted good faith contributions recently. [4] [5] [6] [7]
But it is so hard to judge in such cases, we ought to give the benefit of the doubt, if we possibly can, I think, and we should certainly not jump to conclusions which do not need to be made, if I make myself clear here. NewbyG ( talk) 15:58, 8 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
  • @User:Kalidasa 777, the OP, Just so that this unsupported assertion of anti-semeticism is refuted, as user:Jehochman acknowledged, and also at ANI that was the clear conclusion, check the archives of ANI : and here === The so-called "antisemitic remark" is this: diff. There is nothing antisemitic about that. That seems logical. Thank you. NewbyG ( talk) 16:29, 8 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
Hi Newby. I agree it can be hard to work out what is happening. On one point, though, I think you have it wrong... You say that Jehochman acknowledged that IP90etc didn't say anything anti-semitic. If that was true, it would be an interesting change of mind. After all it was Jehochman who blocked IP90 for trying to "engage in nationalistic culture wars" regarding Jews, as well as for attacking other editors.... See Jehochman's comment at [8].
So why did Jehochman change his mind? The answer is that he didn't! IP90's explanation that you've quoted on at here was posted at 23:44, 28 February 2012 (UTC). Jehochman's comment "That seems logical. Thank you." was posted at 15:45, 28 February 2012 (UTC) -- eight hours earlier! Actually, Jehochman's "that seems logical" was not a reply to IP90 at all..... Although certainly it does look like one until you check the time stamps... Perhaps that was exactly the impression IP90 hoped to make, when he put in his comment immediately before Jehochman's "that seems logical"?? Kalidasa 777 (talk) 20:50, 8 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
There may be a perfectly innocent explanation; we're not mind-readers, after all. My brain is still full of morphine, so I shall go and eat, and read, and sleep now. Pesky (talk) 21:03, 8 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
Hello Kalibasa, yes that's good, about user:Jehochman, they have perhaps not changed their mind over it completely, but they did observe the ANI section, but it does not matter now, as the block which was applied has long ago expired, we do not need to take more time over this matter. My own conclusion is that clearly consensus at the ANI topic was that the anti-semetic allegation was rather weak, but, as I say, the block expired and no further action has been taken. I rather think user:Jehochman may have revised their opinion somewhat, but not in time to shorten the block, through the revelations at the SPI in fact, but that is my conjecture. As I say, I do not think there is any action that can be taken now, or further investigation, that leads us anywhere. I am satisfied at present, and if I somehow seemed to have misrepresented user:Jehochman's position, I apologise, and am glad that user:Kalidasa 777 was sharp enough to notice the discrepancy in the narrative. Cheers NewbyG ( talk) 21:57, 8 March 2012 (UTC) Anecdote: user:Jehochman and myself go way back, though we rarely cross paths, just occasionally, as is the way on our multitude of pages. often it is a case of Oh how I wish good old so-and-so was here to comment on such and such a matter, but usually they are busy elsewhere or asleep <smileyface>[reply]
I second NewbyG's comment about your sharpness in spotting that timing thing. Very observant; I'd totally missed it. Pesky (talk) 07:09, 9 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

Hello from them

Hi Pesky. Pesky said this and I got to thinking. You see Pesky, I know that I do tend to go on a bit, about words and stuff, but I think it’s important, in an encyclopedia words are the stuff we’re made off. So, I ask you, these two phrases : (A) If you leave a message on this page then ... (B) If a message is left on this page then ... ; the phrases are not identical are they, and depending on context and personal taste, the effect on each individual reader and readers collectively can actually make a startlingly significant difference, I think, in many areas where we need to write such and similar stuff. (And basically that is in the main the sort of writing necessary for writing guidelines and POLpages, in the main.) If you would care to have any comments, other than the obvious, which is that NewbyG has an obsessive streak concerning words sometimes. Te he NewbyG ( talk) 15:40, 8 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

Personally, I find the use of the words "you" and (more importantly) "we" to be very effective, in most places. I share your obsessive streak about words – language is a fascinating thing, constantly evolving, and words end up meaning something almost completely different, often, from how they started life. Consider, for example, the usually-vertical storage device, with a door, in which one would usually store such things as brooms, mops, and so on. Started out life as a horizontal surface (plank, or similar) for the storage of drinking utensils. Cup-board. Pesky (talk) 16:50, 8 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

Yes, Pesky, thanks for picking up here; and - now this is a matter of personal taste, I will say that the word "we" is a most valiant ally in writing for wikipediaspace; and for myself then the word "you" is like a garnish and ought to be used as sparingly as possible but to maximum effect. Take for example the second person conditional so beloved of manual-writers eg. If you want to (place an order), then you should (sign on the bottom line). Now that is clear , but utterly dullsville if every sentence in the manual is written exactly alike. Your turn, grins.. NewbyG ( talk) 17:12, 8 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

Grrrngghhhh .... brain is on the point of beginning to absorb 20mg of morphine (bad pain day today), so I'd probably better not edit for a while, or I'll be getting even more rambly than usual ... cyaz, as the grandkids would say! Pesky (talk) 17:26, 8 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

That's OK Pesky, you take care. I will leave you with this thought, I love punctuation eg. semi-colons, colons and commas. And full stops in their place. Cheers, NewbyG ( talk) 17:42, 8 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

Hi Pesky, thanks for the user-box. Here is a short draft from my sandbox written with no personal pronouns. I was going to rewrite the same material, as an exercise, using second personal conditional, but then I thought if you wished to, that you could do that very easily. So, if you want to, there is a reward of five virtual jellybeans , how's that sound? Hope you are not feeling too unwell, and the pains are under control, all the best NewbyG ( talk) 08:54, 9 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

This weekend is "respite weekend" (mother is off to the residential home where my elder daughter works, for a long weekend). I have a painting to do (really must get around to that!) to illustrate the Meermin slave mutiny article, and I'm hoping to be able to do some outdoorsy work on the field (and maybe some hoof-trimming on the boys). Pains and glitches permitting, of course. Yesterday was absolutely lousy, as far as pain goes; a sort of 20mg of morphine every six hours jobbie (bar-steward thing!) Not sure what today will be like, but my left arm and shoulder feels like something grafted on from a zombie this morning! 50% functional, at best! I may take a look at that, or not, depending. Pesky (talk) 09:02, 9 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

Please, you keep yourself as comfortable as possible, and may the medical crew do their best work for you. Like Prince says on an excellent live DVD I have got; "there's too much sadness in the world, let's not get melancholy". See here.
The absolute pinnacle and sine qua non of sentences, IMHO, are those with only verbs! some examples? Look! Look up! Be miraculous! Love! Shine on! Be bold, but not foolish. (also, if possible, only use nouns of immense integity eg.) Let there be Light! Sela, NewbyG ( talk) 17:40, 9 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

Considering this, perhaps this is self-education, or else the mouth of babes type of thing, dunno. Note, there’s a “ zero” count for personal pronouns of any number singular, plural ,first, second, I think. Could you do better Pesky, using second person etc. It is really destined for the en.wiki/editing policy, one would think, if it goes anywhere. NewbyG ( talk) 04:27, 10 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

And as for proper nouns and personal pronouns , a perusal of Naming and necessity#A theory of naming indicates to me how utterly misguided and un-theoretically underpinned are the intuitive notions which are unreflexively applied in most kinds of semi-formal writing, (especially where "writing by committee" is involved), thus resulting in some degree of habitual confusion. NewbyG ( talk) 18:57, 12 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

Thank you for the fish. But...

Thank you for the fish. I understand the kindness of the gift, even though it upset the fishy socks. See Darwinbish's response on my page. (Please don't be concerned at her tone; Darwinbish, regrettably, is never polite, and never makes any allowances. She, er, doesn't do that. See her userpage, her talkpage, and her RFA.) Fun and games with socks apart, though (and I hope you take those as lightly as they were intended), I have another concern: I'm not altogether happy about the way you quoted me to Jehochman, here. That was originally a friendly/jocular remark of mine, about a friend; Jehochman is used to my frankness, and so I didn't (and don't) think he'd mind my remark. Quoting me out of context, and widening it into a generality, the way you do, Pesky, is rather different. However good your intentions in that entire post on Jonathan's page, it amounts to reshaping a remark of mine into a weapon against him, and makes me sorry I ever said it. Incidentally, your verb "Jehochmanned" is really pretty nasty. You are talking about a well-intentioned and hard-working user. Got any diffs for that slur, or was it in private conversation? I refuse to believe "Jehochmanned" has "become a recognisable thing", though as it happens I can easily imagine a certain poison pen telling you so. You may need to be a little more critical of your sources when it comes to what is and isn't "recognisable". Bishonen | talk 17:03, 8 March 2012 (UTC).[reply]

[Pesky crawls behind sofa with tail between legs, ears very politely dipped and folded, and eyes the rolled up newspaper warily ....] I apologise profusely for upsetting you; that aspect hadn't even occurred to me. I know J is well-intentioned and hardworking. I don't have diffs; although I've heard the term from several people, it was likely to be private (though for all I know it's also somewhere in here). Even when I try to do something good, it so often goes wonky. Pesky (talk) 17:16, 8 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

Watch the Northern Lights tonight!

Apparently tonight is the night for seeing the Northern Lights from more southerly latitudes than is usual; even from the UK. This is because of the coronal mass ejection (solar storm). So, get out there watching, and take some nice pics :o) Pesky (talk) 18:25, 8 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

The Blade of the Northern Lights (talk · contribs) will no doubt wield eir scythe with aplomb. 88.104.25.228 (talk) 00:47, 9 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
We had too much cloud cover :o( Not a thing to be seen. Pesky (talk) 07:11, 9 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
I was so tired that I fell asleep reading and forgot to go look. Hear it was pretty good up in Alaska, though. Montanabw(talk) 05:28, 10 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

Love for Pesky

Love for Pesky
I miss seeing you on IRC! Pine(talk) 09:33, 9 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

I will be back over there, some time! I've just had too many things to do / think about, and insufficient time and energy to fit them all in! (>**)> Hugz. Pesky (talk) 09:36, 9 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

Greetings! You have been randomly selected to receive an invitation to participate in the request for comment on Wikipedia talk:Revision deletion. Should you wish to respond to the invitation, your contribution to this discussion will be very much appreciated! If in doubt, please see suggestions for responding. If you do not wish to receive these types of notices, please remove your name from Wikipedia:Feedback request service.RFC bot (talk) 13:18, 9 March 2012 (UTC) ☒NDon't have the knowledge required for this one. Pesky (talk) 13:41, 9 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

WP:V mediation step two

Hello, and thanks again for taking part in the MedCab mediation about Wikipedia:Verifiability. I noticed that you haven't yet submitted a draft of the lede as I outlined in the instructions for step two, so I am just sending this message as a reminder. The deadline was 10:00 am (UTC) on Sunday, March 11, but as there are still eight drafts left to come in I am extending this by a day, to 10:00 am (UTC) on Monday, March 12. To recap, I would like you to draft your ideal version of the lead to the policy and post it on the mediation page, without any commentary. You can find the full instructions at Wikipedia:Mediation Cabal/Cases/27 February 2012/Wikipedia:Verifiability#Step two. Please let me know if you have any questions, and I would especially appreciate you getting in touch if you may have difficulty meeting the new deadline. Best wishes — Mr. Stradivarius 13:54, 11 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

Hello again Pesky, this is to let you know that I am extending the deadline by another day, to 10:00 am (UTC) on Tuesday, March 13. This time, I'm going to go ahead without people who don't submit a draft before the deadline. Don't worry, though - If I progress without you, then it doesn't mean that I'm kicking you out, it just means that you will have to catch up when you are ready to participate again. Also, if you let me know that you will have problems submitting things on time, then I may be able to make concessions for you, so I would be grateful if you could do that rather than just leaving it until the deadline. Thanks — Mr. Stradivarius 13:39, 12 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

Puppy!

Woof woof
Do come back on IRC soon, I miss you. You were like an extra granny, a wild one that gave sex position tips. Everyone needs a granny like that! OohBunnies! Leave a message :) 14:40, 11 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

Good for discussion

Hi Pesky, looks like the draft at wt:civ brought forth some discussion, which is good. Getting back to what is supposed to be happening at User:Ched Davis/civility sandbox I suggest we need to put more thought into the style of writing, or styles of writing which are best suited for the composition of Polpages like wp:civ. Have you looked at for instance Help:Wikipedia: The Missing Manual? I have and at this time, not overly impressed with the style of the writing there. Seems a bit dogmatic, a bit sort of advertisy, a bit sort of close and personal without much personality. Maybe I am just hard to please. Lot of good info there, quite comprehensive, so I oughtn't complain, but kinda dissapointingly dullsville, like it came from an advertising agency, rather than real people. You interested in taking a look? Cheers NewbyG ( talk) 12:41, 12 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

I'm absolutely convinced that, in all policy pages, the writing should be as simple, clear, and non-verbose as is humanly possible. Policy pages that read as though some pompous post-grad lecturer with zero charisma has written them are just plain irritating when they should be written in a way that one would describe the policy to (for example) a favourite nephew. Pesky (talk) 17:43, 12 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
Yeah well, Pesky, agreed, but you're probably aware that (2) editors currently engaged in discussion here can both be accused of long-windedness and a certain degree of obtuseness on occasion (actually, attending to a different drum as it were may apply) and speaking for myself, charisma isn't that the name of some lady from Spain?
What would help greatly, if 'twere possible, is (1) a razor-sharp deliniation of the key topics, (2) accompanied by exactly-measured amplification, and (3) written in a carefully-modulated and deliberately-employed writing style(s). I can help there, can't I? I can do fix typo with aplomb, Cheers NewbyG ( talk) 18:18, 12 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
You can help, yes. Whenever I'm writing for "the great unknown" (or teaching anyone I've never met before), I have to take great care to start off with whatever language would have been easy for youngsters I used to teach, or for the foreign students here to learn English with whom I associated in my teens. Assume intelligence, but not necessarily brilliant command of high-level language. I was interested in your different drum link - I was expecting it to be to Thoreau, but it wasn't! You and I both need to be careful not to irritate other people when looking at getting on with improving policy pages. Elen and Fluff are good collegiate souls with good hearts and great brains; if I'd been allowed to hand-pick a team for this, coincidentally, they would both have been on my list! Ain't life strange, eh?! Pesky (talk) 19:50, 12 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
Indeed. NewbyG ( talk) 20:07, 12 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

() Just noting more worthwhile discussion is occurring at wt:civ where you are getting some good riffs off. Now someone mentioned wp:BEANS, and I was put in mind of this gem of a comment Ahh yes, posting... it here brings it to the attention of maybe a hundred times more people, of whom some don't know what they're doing, and some would be better off not doing what they do! LOL NewbyG ( talk) 02:14, 14 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

Yes, I'm agreeably surprised at the level of productive thinking going on over at civ. And that other thing - wow! The temptation to go immediately to the page and see what there was! Someone obviously didn't realise quite how motivational things along the lines of "OMG! Don't look at this!" are! Pesky (talk) 09:29, 14 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

About Andrew Alexander (2003)

Hi Pesky, I wondered if you saw this tip about Alexander's BA thesis? I'd follow it up myself, but I seem to be having a bit of a break at the mo. It occurs to me that, if Alexander's BA thesis isn't properly published (and it'd be unusual if it was, obv), it can't be cited on WP– but it would still be great to have sight of it! Also, Alexander should've cited his sources, so they can be cited– even via the BA thesis I'd have thought, e.g. per WP:SAYWHEREYOUGOTIT…? I've never done that before (i.e. "citation–>unpublished thesis–>RS"), and someone (i.e. not me!) might have something to say about it, but I don't think it'd be unreasonable...? Dunno, really, but anyway fingers crossed that we can get a copy somehow. Hope you're ok. Nortonius (talk) 12:44, 13 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

Ooh, thanks! I've been avoiding article work at the mo, as I can't entirely trust that my judgment is 100% sound, and I'm happier with making unholy messes in talk space than in article space ... heh! I think the fact that Alexander's BA thesis is quoted by other RS's, so Alexander himself is considered to be "reliable" (as in expert-on-the-subject) by others of similar distinction. Bearing in mind that his MA (or at least large chunks of it) is available "reliably" at cited by others, I would think that would give sufficient oomph to his standing. I can't imagine any but the most obsessively nit-picking and counter-productive editors would then question Alexander's reliability. (At least, I sincerely hope they wouldn't!) I still haven't done that painting yet ... though it's becoming clearer in my mind, day on day.) Pesky (talk) 13:45, 13 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

ZOMG ... Acting suspiciously? Really? (non-Wiki)

Don't be obsessively clean! ... things could get worse than you think ... it's not just a waste of soap! Pesky (talk) 14:00, 13 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

That gave me a good giggle although it raises the question...how did the police find the man "scrubbing his genitals in the shower" when they were just doing door to door inquiries? OohBunnies! Leave a message :) 14:20, 13 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
If you read down further in the article it says that when the police asked if he was home the girlfriend lied and said no - they were suspicious, so searched the apartment and found him... Dana boomer (talk) 14:31, 13 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
…but, why did his partner say he wasn't in? And, what was his "thoroughly obnoxious" behaviour when arrested? How would we behave if our homes were invaded illegally by the police, and we were arrested for something we hadn't done, while washing our "toilet areas"? I'm wondering if my obnoxiousness would be adequately thorough! Questions, quisteons! Nortonius (talk) 14:40, 13 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
Yeah, I'm thinking that his obnoxious behaviour was probably because he was naked in the shower and the police had barged in. Imagining the scene, I can just picture him yelling, "Get away, I'm washin' mah balls here!" I assume his partner lied because she knew he was in the middle of an obsessive ball-washing spree and would thus be unresponsive to being questioned or something. That's my guess. OohBunnies! Leave a message :) 14:47, 13 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
Excellent reasoning, homes! (soz I've been watching more The Shield than reading stuff by Conan Doyle) I hereby promote you to Toilet Invasion Theorist, 1st Class (TIT1ST). Nortonius (talk) 15:00, 13 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
Do I get a badge? OohBunnies! Leave a message :) 15:14, 13 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
Badge duly awarded! Seriously, though, if my other half was busy having a shower, I think it would be perfectly reasonable to say he "wasn't in" (as in the Olde Etiquettey "not at home to visitors"). And if the Police turned up and arrested me on suspicion of washing my bits in the privacy of my own shower, I expect I might well be pretty "obnoxious", too! I wonder what words would be perfectly reasonable to describe the Police themselves ... I'd think that "obnoxious" is probably the mildest epithet one could readily think of! Pesky (talk) 16:01, 13 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

Civility

I watch (Ched's page and) your determination towards more civility with pleasure. I started the other end, same direction, perhaps you want to join there. The one who framed Geometry guy's wise statement, --Gerda Arendt (talk) 10:39, 14 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

The framed words were continued, --Gerda Arendt (talk) 11:37, 14 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
I watch GG's page, too! We have a lot of very good-hearted and clear-thinking people in here. Pesky (talk) 11:40, 14 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
Did you follow to read Great Dismal Swamp maroons? If you agree that the author should not remain blocked you could sign here, --Gerda Arendt (talk) 12:19, 14 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

Precious

inspiration of civility
Thank you for speaking up for civility, decency and fairness, treating editors as living people, --Gerda Arendt (talk) 10:58, 14 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

Awww, thanks! Pesky (talk) 11:25, 14 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

For some good images to take in as a supply for your treatment see this gallery Düsseldorf school of painting, where my main page pic (talk) is also featured. Best wishes! --Gerda Arendt (talk) 13:09, 26 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
You are amazing! Back to editing already! I just went on a spring walk and thought of you, looking at blossoming periwinkle! - So the images helped? --Gerda Arendt (talk) 15:48, 27 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

I have a date!

Happy Wolfie!

Wheeeee! I have a date with my favourite neurosurgeon– in just under two weeks' time! I have been waiting far too long for this, already; the damned glitchiness of constant neuropathic pain, loss of sensation when I do need it, compromised motor function over about a sixth of my body, and all that goes with it, has been causing me so many hassles ... it will be just great to have my neck sliced open, pulled around, drilled and re-bored, and generally mangled ;P Pesky (talk) 13:17, 15 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

Pesky, that's great news. The manglers, drillers and reborers never promise you anything but I've had two such ops, and each has been of enormous benefit. Haploidavey (talk) 13:30, 15 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
Will think of you. Like how you take it in style! - My date was yesterday: only a few hours between my first GA nom and passing, precious! Today is also a good one: the husband of a dear woman I sing with is on the Main page. She, Gisela Schuster, is bound to a wheelchair and has an admirable spirit! Keep it up! --Gerda Arendt (talk) 13:40, 15 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
Well done! Pesky (talk) 15:10, 15 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
Great news indeed Pesky, I'll keep my fingers, knees, eyes etc. crossed for you! :o) Nortonius (talk) 13:43, 15 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
I have had such awesomely good results from almost all of my various surgeries, that I'm (mostly) hopeful about any such procedure. That is, until the Devil's Advocate part of my brain starts saying things like "Ah, but now you need to think about the law of averages, and the percentage of operations which end up with complications," and stuff like that. Brains are funny things. On the whole, I'm pretty chilled about surgery, but there are always those few seconds in the theatre ante-room where you think "OK, maybe this time I won;t wake up, or will wake up and discover something really bad happened." I get over those by joking with the theatre team, on the whole. After all, there's not a lot of point in worrying about it; worrying doesn't actually change anything. I am soooo looking forward to regaining some decent use and sensation. Besides which, my neurosurgeon and I get on like a house on fire. Pesky (talk) 15:08, 15 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
Yay! I can cross my toes for you too! (noogies at Nortonius for mentioning eyes! LOL!) If you actually KNOW the surgeon, they are far less likely to think you're in for, say, a hysterectomy or something! Good luck! Montanabw(talk) 16:36, 15 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
This is my guy :o) He's a warm and caring chap, and great fun. As well as seriously expert. He works here, as well as the place over the road from there! Pesky (talk) 16:45, 15 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
And in the USA we have political factions that claim that UK style health care would mean we'd have people dying in the streets, unable to access "rationed" health care. Haven't seen a real life case of that yet. (The American health care system is simple: If you're working poor, don't get sick) Montanabw(talk) 00:10, 16 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
The UK health system is rather simple; if you're a UK citizen then you're entitled to free health care. In fact a friend of mine, who was diabetic and working in the US, had to return to the UK after his health insurance ran out when he was made redundant. I would clobber with the biggest bat I could find anyone who thought that the basic idea of the NHS was in any way anything other than a fundamental change on a par with the abolition of slavery. Which it might be worth noting that the Royal Navy played a very big part in. Malleus Fatuorum 00:34, 16 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
In fact anyone found in distress will receive whatever medical treatment they need, regardless of their ability to pay. I really do believe that we've given two great gifts to the world: our empire and our NHS, two great gifts. Malleus Fatuorum 00:45, 16 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

I couldn't agree more. Without the NHS, (a) I would be dead, and (b) I would be crippled if I weren't dead. I've almost lost count of the number of surgeries I've had (just to give you guys an idea, this will the the 14th in 3 years), and every single one of them has had a major positive impact on my quality of life / health. If I had been in the US, no insurance company would have given me cover, I don't think. And as for the Empire, if you look around the world today and see just how much is owed to the Empire of the past, you'd have to be singularly unobservant not to appreciate the impact the Brits have had. Phenomenal. I don;t know quite what it is about the Brits, but we are different in some fundamental ways. Whether it's because we're island people, or because we're descended from so many different adventurous / invasive / innovative and downright courageous stock, or a combination of a hundred different things, I have no idea. But we are distinctive. (And, of course, we're the bestest ;P ) The horsey people will know just how much British horse and pony breeds have affected horses around the world. I think only the Arab / Arabian has had more global impact than the British breeds. (And the Iberian breeds are the next in terms of global impact, I think.) And we're a set of comparatively tiny islands. Wow. Just wow. Pesky (talk) 11:08, 16 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

Sigh. I hear this sort of talk from Canadians and Aussies as well. I've yet to hear a REAL person who speaks UK English say they'd dump their health care system for the USA model. Yet here in the states, the right wing is screaming that "Obamacare" (a plan that basically says you have to buy health insurance out of pocket unless you're real poor, no one can be denied insurance and maybe there will be some subsidies to help the working class, but not much until 2014) is "socialized medicine" and will destroy the American way of life. Politicians are running on a platform promising to repeal it and let the "free market" have its way (I use preceding terminology deliberately). I am amongst the fortunate to have insurance, but as my spouse and I are both self-employed and over 50 with normal minor stuff for that age range, we are classed as "high risk." (Neither of us have been hospitalized in decades) Not having the benefit of an employer-wide group, we had two options: Paying for a decent policy -- meaning about a $5000 annual deductible for us both that paid about 80% of most everything after that for about $1200-$1500 a month, or what we could afford, which is just under $500 a month for a "catastrophic care" policy with an $11,000+ family deductible that will pay 100% after that. Our perfectly healthy in every way and under 30 adult child has to pay over $200 a month for a similar policy. In other words, the ambulance will pick us up and take us to the hospital, and we won't have to sell our home and declare bankruptcy if someone gets a hot appendix, but we will still wind up maxing out at least one credit card to pay the hospital. And the political right claims that the UK & Canada have people dying because they can't get certain operations the instant they want/need them or even because there are quotas and rationing of "socialized" medicine. Montanabw(talk) 16:58, 16 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
It's pathetic, really, isn't it? You ought to emigrate – you'd love to live where I do! I think if the US got some honest statisticians (?) to work out a per-capita rate of anxiety, poor access to adequate care, bankruptcy as a result of needing care, and dying for lack of care for the US and the UK, it would be bloody clear who had the better healthcare system. Pesky (talk) 17:04, 16 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
There are criticisms of the the waiting list for non-urgent treatment, but you really can't fault the way that emergency treatment is delivered here. A few years ago I slipped on some ice while going down a flight of steps and broke my arm. I didn't realise at first that it was anything worse than a bit of bruising, as it took a little while for the pain to kick in. It wasn't until about two in the morning it became obvious that there was something serious going on, and I woke my wife up to take me to our local hospital. I'll never forget that drive, every bump in the road was agony! I was given pain killers and X-rayed immediately, and by 9 o'clock I was on the operating table having my arm pinned back together. Malleus Fatuorum 17:28, 16 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
Oops! It really is amazing what that first overload of endorphin-release can get us humans through. I hope you immobilised the arm properly before getting into the car! I hate having to wait for non-urgent stuff (this neck thing, f'rinstance). Though the really annoying thing is waiting for the consultant appointment to get onto the list for the non-urgent surgery. I have another op required this year (hopefully!); had the non-consultant appointment, scans, etc. within a reasonable space of time, but the first available consultant-appointment wasn't until four months after the scans – just not enough consultants to go around! Now, if we could ditch a few of the management staff, and increase the number of available medical and surgical staff ... Pesky (talk) 18:16, 16 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
Alberta geographically resembles Montana in many ways, I will admit to the occasional temptation. I don't think I could hack the UK, I barely tolerated the cloudy weather of Missoula, Montana in winter when I lived there! I think the Canadians might take us, we aren't vagrants or anything. At least, if we got there before we got sick. And if they'd not kick us out for opposition to the Athabasca oil sands project. Montanabw(talk) 19:34, 16 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
I like the pics I've seen of Alberta. Pesky (talk) 19:47, 16 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
It's a pretty special moment to hear Neil Young perform Four Strong Winds at a concert in Alberta. I pretty much was ready to not go back! LOL! Montanabw(talk) 19:51, 16 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

That must have been incredible.

'Bout time too, with this op - as of this afternoon, the whole top of my left arm wants to just hang there like a dead thing; I'm currently having to type with my left foot propped up, so that I can prop up my left arm on my leg, just to keep my left hand at keyboard level :o( Tried to turn of a light switch just now, and you would not believe the effort it took to do it. Bloody thing ... Pesky (talk) 23:56, 16 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

Hi there Pesky, please accept if you would, now my on-going wishes that your ability to succeed and overcome will sustain through the course of your treatment, and obtain for you from the operation performed by your doctors and carers the most-highly wondrous and gratifying outcome! And whatever your personal belief-system, which I certainly respect, I offer these words of succour, which came to me from a helping source at a time when I was in suffering.
Thank You Father,

For making Your dwelling in hearts broken by hardship and sorrow. Nowhere is Your healing presence so evident as in the place of pain and suffering.

Wishing you the best, always, NewbyG ( talk) 00:39, 17 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
Thank you, Newby! It will be great to have the use of my arm back again properly! Post-surgery pain is a transient thing, and the end is very much worth the means and all associated with it. It's going to mean that I'm not even allowed to hold a pony's lead-rop for at least six weeks after the op, but fortunately I have a very competent son who can take over breaking in and schooling the lads (and the grey mare, if I can catch her, and if she isn't in foal!) while I watch and instruct! I'm also looking forward to being able to drive again sometime soon! Pesky (talk) 09:15, 17 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

That's terrific news! Sorry for not seeing this sooner, but at least the surgery is fairly close by the time this comment has landed. :P Hugs and best wishes, wctaiwan (talk) 16:11, 20 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

Hugs to you, too! I've picked up a bit of a cold in the last couple of days, but hopefully it will be gone before The Big Day. I can't wait to get fixed up :D Pesky (talk) 17:13, 20 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
I see you edited post-op yesterday Pesky, woohoo! I was worried they might cancel at the last minute... Here's to a speedy recovery! Nortonius (talk) 11:22, 28 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
Hear hear! Wishing you the very best as you get over the surgery. — Mr. Stradivarius 12:54, 28 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

Help please

Hi there Pesky. I am involved in an argument at the Great Dismal Swamp maroons article involving the use of caps for the word "maroons". If you are interested you may see the discussion I opened on the talk page. I come to you because you have been around the Wikipedia block so many times that you may be aware of where I can go for help. I'm often willing to go with the flow, trusting group wisdom, but once and a while I do dig my heals in and this is one of those times. Any suggestions about where I may find Wikipedia-use-of-caps in this particular situation? Thanks, Gandy Gandydancer (talk) 19:14, 16 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

I'll take a look. Can't promise miracles, but I'll see if there's anything I can do. Pesky (talk) 19:30, 16 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
IMHO, it isn't even an argument. I suggested Gandy just move it and see who gets pissed. It's already been moved back and forth three times over this and the actual content editors are tired and don't feel like fighting it any more. Montanabw(talk) 19:53, 16 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
Extended content

Like you need this, I sure don't

I've got a history with this editor and so I think someone with a slower pulse should handle further discussion: Talk:English_saddle#Any_editors_here_ever_hear_of_.22references.22.3F Montanabw(talk) 19:15, 16 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

Just started wikipedian today. Saw this on my way up on my watchlist. I can respond to them from here on out if you would like. Just don't tell my mother. If she knew I was touching the English saddle page she would kill me... Western saddle is the only saddle. Bgwhite (talk) 19:30, 16 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
I will protect you! I actually rather like Aussie saddles, but I'm not proud ... @Montana, sure, I'll look in and see if I can help. Pesky (talk) 19:32, 16 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
Full disclosure: I think this is payback for the discussion at Talk:Kura (Japanese saddle). Just so's ya knows. And the article would benefit from more references, I just don't want to get into a "delete everything without a source" because it's a long, and mostly accurate (at least as to the USA) article. Montanabw(talk) 19:51, 16 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
I'm sure that when (hah!) I have some spare time (more hah!) and can get my textbooks back out of the mess storage unit, I will be able to get some citations in there. Pesky (talk) 20:12, 16 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
  • Montanabw, it is just as likely that your attempt at renaming the Kura (Japanese saddle) article is payback for me not letting you revert my edits on saddle and stirrup, and for my confronting your ownership issues on the Horses in warfare lead image squabble, and then there was Packsaddle and Pack horse. I can list other equine related articles that are complete failures as far as references and you do not seem to have made any attempt to correct the situation on those articles, take Equine conformation for example, you admitted that this article needed to be fixed a long time ago and as yet nothing has been done about it. But somehow the fate of the world hangs on the name of Kura (Japanese saddle). Since you have no knowledge or interest in Japanese related equine information or articles why the sudden concern? I was using the English saddle article as an example of how "guidelines" can on one hand be so easily ignored and yet those same "guidelines" are suddenly brought up as a (weapon) reason to rename an article that you have no interest in. Im just saying.....

Samuraiantiqueworld (talk) 20:46, 16 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

Samuraiantiqueworld, my talk page is a Mandatory Truce Zone; all weapons have to be left outside the door. Please don't bring arguments over here, restrict them to the relevant talk page. We don't deal in accusations of ownership, etc. in here. It's not done. I'd appreciate it if you were to remove your comment over to either the article's talk page, or to MTBW's talk page, if you want to discuss any issue with MTBW. It certainly doesn't belong on my talk page. Having said that, if you feel like taking refuge in the Mandatory Truce Zone at any time, and can just hang out, chill out, and chat, then that's OK, but I don't want squabbles in here. Pesky (talk) 21:13, 16 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
Adding: I've taken a look at your talk page, related pages, and several of your contributions in talk pages. It seems to me that you come across as very confrontational and angsty a lot – I notice you've had a few people asking you not to indulge in personal attacks. Would you consider being a little more kind in your approach to other editors? I think you might find you got on better that way. Having said that, I've also looked at your images on Commons - and wow! What a superb collection of pics! That's some amazing stuff there, it would be great if many more other editors could upload such a fantastic collection. I'm sure most of us have never seen anything like some of that :D Brill! Pesky (talk) 22:09, 16 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
To be fair, I don't think Montana should have mentioned, "I think this is payback...". Because of this, I can see why Samuraiantiqueworld issued their above response. Montana broke the Truce Zone too. The first post by Montana was perfect in these scenarios. Neutral and to the point. Bgwhite (talk) 22:13, 16 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
Kinda, but not totally. I wondered, which is why I spent so long looking over contribs etc. I think Montana's comment was actually justified, having looked around a bit; also, people who ask for my input generally like to give me a bit of background, which helps me get some perspective. Remembering just how patient and understanding and encouraging Montana was with me, when I was only half-broke-in, I know it takes quite a lot to get her snitty about something. Pesky (talk) 22:23, 16 March 2012 (UTC) Adding: I have quite a few people who are regulars over here, and quite a few who ask for my input. But when someone I've never "met" before then coincidentally turns up on my talk page within the hour, not even to talk to me (or even acknowledge my presence), I add that into the equation when apportioning this stuff. ;P Pesky (talk) 22:57, 16 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
  • "Remembering just how patient and understanding and encouraging Montana was with me, when I was only half-broke-in", well under those conditions I can understand why you would see Montanabw as a "friend", unfortunately I have not had such a rosy experience, Montanabw has been confrontational with me from the first time I dared to step foot in one of the articles "guarded" by Montanabw. The problem was that I was adding relevant, REFERENCED, valid, information and I would not be bullied and back down from Montanabw's persistent attacks on my edits, experience and character, and unfortunately this attitude has continued into every interaction we have had. I could show you the particular circumstances but that would not matter I think since you admittedly see Montanabw as a friend. You mentioned a "Truce Zone". well as you stated you do not know me but Montanabw does and by bringing this matter to your talk page Montanabw was the one disrespecting your "Truce zone" as Montanabw should have known this would happen, its not the first time by any means, Montanabw has run to other editors and administrators looking for sympathy before, after having confrontations with me, how do you think I knew to look for this comment in the first place, ("I think this is payback...") I know Montanabw would go running to someone crying about being abused, but speaking of guidelines Montanabw knew that once I reverted back to the original article name the matter should have gone to discussion but instead Montanabw chose to revert once again, not a very friendly or respectful thing to do in my opinion. Montanabw lives in a glass house and shouldnt throw stones without expecting to have a few thrown back, sorry for disrupting your talk page, my comments were only directed to Montanabw as a reminder that talk pages are public places and appropriate etiquette should be practiced if you want the same in return,
  • By the way, thanks for your comments on my Wiki commons contributions, I have spent an incredible amount of time and money gathering the information and images used on the Kura (Japanese saddle) article (as well as the other articles I have worked on), as far as I know it is the only one of its kind in the world, bringing together the correct terms, images of Japanese saddles and related items, along with appropriate known references and I want to make sure that this information is made as accessible as possible for anyone who wants information on this subject or for people who never knew about this subject before, this is not a "personal" dispute or I would not have taken the time and effort "reverting" edits which I feel are not appropriate. You can now go back to your regularly scheduled programming.

Samuraiantiqueworld (talk) 06:46, 17 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

Hey, chill! Montana is a highly-experienced editor here. Perhaps some of your references weren't from reliable sources, or something as simple as that?

[Inserting] Please re-read this post to your talk in which Montanabw pointed out, quite clearly, "Your PROPERLY referenced material isn't being removed, it was copyedited. The rest was your wrong placement of links and your constant attempts to keep re-adding a link to a category in commons that was the issue. It's not a source -- read the Wiki MOS on sources, it's quite clear that you don't source wikipedia from other wikis."

Anyway, no personal attacks on my talk page! It's clear that you got here by following Montanabw's contributions around in order to perpetuate an argument. That's heavily frowned upon. The tone of your comments here is orders-of-magnitude worse than Montana's – there's just no comparison. Quite a few other editors have had to talk to you about making personal attacks, you really need to cool it, or someone is going to take this further with something like a request for comment from the community on your conduct, or bringing this up at the admin incidents noticeboard with a possible view to getting you sanctioned for WikiHounding and personal attacks. I seriously recommend you take a short break here, cool down a bit, be very careful not to hound and attack other editors, and so on.

I absolutely loved your Commons contributions; fantastic pictures, and I can quite see that you've put in a huge amount of effort in getting those for us. That's an incredible contribution, and, regardless of anything else, means that you've clearly got good intentions towards the 'pedia, and the quality of our content. I really mean that; I'm impressed. But please be a bit less aggressive, and definitely stop with the name-calling and hounding, OK? Pesky (talk) 07:02, 17 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

I'm going to add here that, regardless of which editor came to my talk page asking for my input, my response would be exactly the same. This is nothing to do with friendship; I operate from a purely principle-centred standpoint (which is possibly why I get asked for assistance). Pesky (talk) 07:30, 17 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
  • "Quite a few other editors have had to talk to you about making personal attacks", any claims of personal attacks come from disputes between Montanabw and I. There is a difference between edit disputes and "personal attacks", and it is not at all unusual for people to butt heads on Wikipedia. Anyone can yell "personal attack", if I say that someone has an "ownership issue" is that a personal attack? You are also only seeing one side, as many of the ongoing arguments have been archived, as in this one.[Edit warring on image content] And as much as you would like to think that you are unbiased thats quite impossible, only someone completely removed from a situation can be unbiased.Samuraiantiqueworld (talk) 08:21, 17 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

Samuraiantiqueworld (talk) 08:21, 17 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

You really have to stop this. I'm quite capable of going through page histories (which I have done, quite extensively) and seeing what's happened there in the past. I'd appreciate it if you didn't inform me that I'm not capable of being unbiased, too – it's hardly a good-faith comment, is it? I'm not relying on anybody else's words when it comes to personal attacks, I have gone through the histories associated, and made my own judgment on the issue. I'm not going to have my talk page turned into your battleground, so I'm afraid at this point that I must ask you not to post on here again. Pesky (talk) 08:48, 17 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

Hey, they sold out!

You never knew Tesco sold these, did you?!

... but they'll probably re-stock soon. Pesky (talk) 20:33, 16 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

Pesky, that's effing brilliant. Haploidavey (talk) 00:31, 17 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

Greetings and Felicitations!

(This is in response to the following comment, which was placed on my talk page)

I just noticed your comment at AN/I that you have Asberger's; I'm a high-functioning autistic myself, and I personally know quite a few other Wikpedians who inhabit the grey areas of the autism spectrum. (Several of whom stalk my talk!)

You're always welcome to wander over in my direction; we're an odd bunch around my talk page, but a supportive bunch. As well as being an HFA myself, I've also professionally taught Aspies, Auties, a huge range of others (including non-Autie geniuses!), so I'm really happy to help out with any tips or even just moral support you might want from time to time. All the best, Pesky (talk) 23:51, 17 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

Thank you for your kind invite. I have this page on my watchlist and will be joining in from time to time. More later - just got called to dinner. :) --Guy Macon (talk) 00:11, 18 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
You're very welcome here :o) As it's quarter-past-midnight here in the UK, I'm off to bed in a mo! Pesky (talk) 00:16, 18 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

Well, that didn't work

Sorry to have drawn a certain editor to your user page. You handled it well, though. You see why I needed to stay out, no idea how to handle something like that. Montanabw(talk) 04:52, 18 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

Hey, no probs! It might have worked, after all, and they didn't cause too much hassle, really. It would have been great if I could have halter-trained them and got the to accept treats from the hand, and just join in nicely, but it was beyond my capabilities!

I've asked a totally uninvolved and good-egg admin if they could possibly have a look at the over-all situation (I particularly didn't like the stalking / hounding aspect) and, if they see fit, just have a nice, gentle few words with the editor concerned to try and nip this stuff in the bud before they end up at RfC/U or AN/I; good to stop / de-escalate dramahz before it gets too out of hand, and a fresh pair of eyes with no likelihood of being accused of cliquey affiliations might do the trick. Pesky (talk) 09:49, 18 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

Uninvolved / independent input is here, if you want to take a look. Pesky (talk) 08:48, 23 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

FLM

Hi Pesky,

You seem to have offered to take him under your wing, so I want to give you a heads up, and you can handle it any way you want to, including ignoring it. I'm not going to post it to his talk page, because I have a feeling it would stir things up, but you're welcome to simply point him to this if you think it useful. Or delete it.

On reflection, I think we admins seriously dropped the ball here, and FLM should have been blocked. This is not an otherwise good content creator with a potty mouth, this is someone who, so far, seems to see everything here as a battle, and is clearly violating NPA. I'm not a civility cop, and the problem is not being cranky or a bit rude, but actively making numerous attacks on others. This was not a rocky start, this was a train wreck, and about 90% due to FLM's attitude, not his newness. I worry that not being blocked sent him the wrong signal. You should be aware that I am not looking for slow steady improvement in his behavior, I am looking for a very, very rapid turnaround in his behavior, with zero personal attacks on other editors going forward, or i will be indef blocking the account.

I appreciate you're trying to salvage something here, and I'm sorry I'm not giving you the breathing room you might like, but the targets of his ire have put up with more than their share already, and they will not be putting up with any more of it.

I haven't forgotten that I owe you a look-see about another issue. --Floquenbeam (talk) 14:29, 18 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

I'll have a look ... back soon! Pesky (talk) 15:14, 18 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
Back already! He still doesn't appear to have contributed anything since 20:09 on 16 March. I will keep a watch on his contribs (as often as I can check!) and see if he's turned over a new leaf. Is there any way of watchlisting someone's contribs, so I can get a relatively quick heads-up for when he starts contributing again? He may be taking a sensible short break for a few days, to let things simmer down and the dust settle. Pesky (talk) 15:19, 18 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
I didn't mean that something new happened since the last issue died down, I meant that I'd gone back and looked at how that developed, and realized how much he was allowed to get away with. A short break is a great idea if that's what it is. Frank already gave a "final final warning", I'm just noting that that's really what it is, and that informal mentoring (if that's what this is, I don't know) isn't going to protect him from a pretty quick block if things restart. There's no way to watchlist someone's contribs, I think there's some kind of RSS feed thing somewhere, but that's way over my head, technology-wise.

I looked at your other issue a little, at first glance it seems like one of those intractable problems that Wikipedia is truly excellent at generating. I think there are issues from both parties, and some portion of "blame" not necessarily equally distributed. I'm not convinced everyone involved will value my feedback. I'll look at it a little more, but it might be one of those "ignore it and pray it goes away by itself, even though you know in your heart it won't" things. --Floquenbeam (talk) 15:28, 18 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

That other thing has no urgency about it at all, and may hopefully have settled down a bit. I've dropped a chunk of granny-spiel onto FLM's talk page, for when he comes back, just so he knows where I stand; I also emailed him some advice that first evening (shortly after posting at AN/I) which I'm hoping he'll follow up on. All we can do is our best; shame the situation was allowed to escalate in the first place as opposed to being nipped in the bud, really! But these things happen. Pesky (talk) 15:45, 18 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
"Malleus has a bit of a reputation for being an evil b*****d, but he's not, really ... just doesn't suffer fools gladly. Or even at all, possibly!" I can be an evil thingumyjig on a bad day, and "even at all" is pretty close to the mark. Malleus Fatuorum 22:59, 20 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
Ahhh, but you're not really an evil bastard! You have a great heart, and an excellent mind, and you remind me a bit of an old horse I once knew, who used to flatten his ears, curl his nostrils, grind his teeth, and stamp his feet at people who were twats around him ... but on whose back you could put any toddler with absolute and certain knowledge that he would look after them! Pesky (talk) 07:36, 21 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
And yet another example, this time from Pesky, not Malleus, of a word (like Malleus' infamous use of the "c-word") that you Brits seem to use with no obscenity intended, but in the USA is considered an extreme vulgarity and highly offensive to women (the "t-word", which means the same thing, more or less, as the "c-word"...). Add this to the ever-growing list of words that Brits use that could cause them to be physically attacked if used in the USA --- it was here that I noted the difference in use of the "other f-word" (f-g, in that case)? Please, at least tell me that the famous "f--k-word" is of equal vulgarity on your side of the pond...? Montanabw(talk) 03:20, 22 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
So far as I'm aware "twat" is a synonym for that infamous "c-word", but the fact that Pesky, a female, used it quite casually speaks volumes for the fact that it's not gender-related. As for the "f-word", it's really almost nothing here, just a word that can sometimes be useful as an intensifier. As for words that might cause an American to be attacked her in the UK I'd say that "Have a nice day" would be high on the list. Malleus Fatuorum 03:30, 22 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

Yup, twat means just the same thing, as does prat, and fanny (which means arse, I think, in the US. Sorry, that would be "ass", which means idiot or Equinus asinus here in the UK). I think the thing is that we Brits are just much more laid-back about using cusswords – they really don't have the nastiness over here that they do in the US. If a relatively-educated person here in the UK wants to be really, really insulting, we seem to resort to that icily cutting soul-undermining politeness, uttered in a clipped and posh-as-possible voice (the "telephone voice", perhaps), which we would never use to a friend. Apart from Biggles, who almost always says things tersely, and usually while waggling a finger. And yes, it's the morphine again! Pesky (talk) 20:01, 22 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

It's a strange thing, but I'm much more offended by the sort of snooty faux politeness you get in posh restaurants and the like than any number of cuss words. And for some reason I find being called "Sir" like listening to fingernails being scraped across a blackboard. Malleus Fatuorum 20:16, 22 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
Did somebody mention cuss words?! Nortonius (talk) 20:36, 22 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
Haha! "And would Sir like Claret or Burgundy with Sir's sirloin?" Malleus, dear heart, just pray to the deity of your choice that you never get knighted ... Pesky (talk) 20:57, 22 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
LOL. True, that when Yanks start using words that refer to the anatomy below the belt associated with genitalia and surrounding concepts, we usually intend a vicious insult. Except "fanny," which is merely a cute archaic colloquialism for the posterior part of said region as well as a woman's name. Ass can be the "fanny" or the equine, as well as an idiot. Much fun had here punning on those terms. (see here) The "t" and "c" words generally refer only to the stuff on the other side of the um "fanny," ... We don't use "prat" at all -- that one's all yours. "Butt" is ambiguous -- not OK in kindergarten or certain white-collar business and social settings, but acceptable elsewhere as a rule. We are also sometimes too dense to pick up on the insults of too-politeness, though the belles of the American South have a particularly-well-developed skill set of backstabbing all while saying superficially nice things that is a true art form. And Malleus, please DO have a nice day!  :-D (Bwahahahaaaa, now I know what really bugs Malleus...) Montanabw(talk) 21:28, 22 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
I will never forget the dogsbody assistant who applied for a job at a company I once worked with. When his application form asked for his previous job title, he put "General ass." And, we discovered to our horror, never was a truer word spoken! (or written, if we're going to be pedantic). Pesky (talk) 21:34, 22 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
I don't know what it's like in the US, but here in the UK we have different nuances on different cusswords which technically mean the same thing. Prat or twat has the nuance of stupid, ridiculous (possibly comically so), whereas cunt very often has nuances of bullying; dickhead is used more often than dick, and has the same kind of nuances as prat and twat, but prick has the same kind of bullying nuance. Pesky (talk) 05:42, 23 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

Mediation step two draft

Hi Pesky! Thanks for your input in the mediation - it's always nice to see your comments. :) Now I know that you said you weren't going to submit a draft for step two, but would you be willing to just point me to a version that somebody else drafted, that you think is rather good? I want to do this for the sake of trying to treat everyone equally, and also to satisfy my curiosity about where everyone stands on the issues involved. I'm not cold-hearted enough to make it absolutely mandatory though, so I'll understand if you don't want to, especially with your date coming up. ;) There are a lot of good drafts out there already, both in the mediation archive and in the WT:V archives, so you shouldn't be stuck for choice! You don't have to do it straight away, either - just when you have a spare moment will be fine. And if you have any questions, just let me know. Best — Mr. Stradivarius 15:47, 19 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

User:Mrt3366

I noticed this. It was very kind of you to try to help. Anything you can do to turn this editor around and harness some of that energy towards something good, will be very much appreciated. Thanks for going the extra mile. --John (talk) 22:24, 20 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

No probs! I can sooooo understand how this editor is feeling, without in any way condoning what they've done in the heat of their passion! I felt it has to be worth a try; it can do no harm, and may do some good. Time will tell. Pesky (talk) 22:30, 20 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

Salamat hari Ebu

I think of you as 'Ebu', it's a cultural term, in a machine translation it might mean a woman who is the speakers senior, which misses the real meaning of a wise and respected grandmother, but then, some things are lost in translation because the community's pervasive attitude of respect for your elders in one community is bankrupt in another. But if I say 'Ebu Pesky' or 'bu' (pron. Boo) I know you'll understand me.

"No Wikpedian chooses to be blocked; that's a decision which others make for them. And even when consensus says this should be reviewed, or changed, it seems there is nowhere to go; and, not knowing what to do, people just give up trying. They "wander off"."

Yes, but add to that the very many people who watch the highway. They see it is no place to stand and do not venture onto it. Every time I/we/all see a car crash, I/we/all think it is pointless to put in any effort to this project. It is a fair thought. One kumioko incident produces many many casualties and injuries.

I see a path to change, but often I can't say ahead of time what is ahead. People need to be led closer so they will be able to see the idea for themselves, or they will resist going to a place that they'd quite like if they actually got there. So many times, my ideas look a lot like green eggs and ham.

So to go slowly. The tribe sees the lost, and want to speak in support. The lost see the template, and most some see it as more blatant than it is, as a block template speaks with the voice of the wide community.

Should it be made so that it draws back the curtain and people can see the wizard ?

Can I make anims to help your HFA project ? I like anims lately. I can do much better than these just say ideas or words or images or concepts, just the first 10 or 20 silly things that come into your head when I say HFA will do fine. Penyulap 10:01, 21 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

I think sometimes that all we can do is to believe that one day it will work well. If you think about it, Wikipedia is a very new "civilisation" (think of it as an up-and-coming newly-created country, with roots from communities all over the world). It takes a new civilisation, a new community, quite a long time to find its feet and become both honourable and stable. The vast majority of us in here are here to do good; much of the time we'll have very differing ideas both as to what "good" is, and as to how to do it. That's inevitable when we have so many immigrants from so many different cultural backgrounds. And the interesting thing is that very few people are actually wrong. My personal feeling is that only the truly destructive, with no hope of rehabilitation, should be exiled on a permanent basis. People can change; people do change. People (all people) occasionally go off the rails, some much worse than others, for a whole multitude of reasons. But I believe that only something like 3% of people really can't be rehabilitated. And yes, I almost picked that figure off the top of my head, but not quite! Today I have a pre-op assessment, an hour or so's drive away, so my focus is not on the 'pedia just now. When my brain is back on track (may not happen until after the surgery), I shall try to remember to think about what you've asked, in greater depth. Pesky (talk) 10:18, 21 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
It is a coincidence, as I have the same in RL tomorrow, for general aesthetic next week. It only goes so far as a surgeon(s? idk) chopping into me above the neck though, as they aren't after my CPU or LAN. But it is still a bit 'am I meant to be scared, am I supposed to be apprehensive' and I don't know. I think maybe it's better not to think. But yes, your RL first, and read and chat another week. Take care 'Boo. Penyulap 11:23, 21 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
My GA and surgery is scheduled for 27 March, and the surgeon will be chopping into my neck (and probably leaving me with a lovely zigzag scar, Harry Potter style, on the front of my neck!) in order to release some seriously compressed nerve roots. I have FUBAR discs at C4, C5 and C6, which will eventually need to be replaced with artificial ones, but drilling away bits of bone to make room for the nerves is a good enough fix for the time being. Best of luck with your op; there's absolutely no point in being apprehensive about surgery, as worrying about it changes absolutely nothing for the better. I;ve had heaps of surgeries, and try to reduce my "worry time" to about ten seconds in the theatre ante-room, and then get over it by cracking jokes with the theatre team ;P Pesky (talk) 11:39, 21 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
I never even though of that whole 'wheeled into the theater' part with the people all dressed up. I focused on what it would be like to breath in and have the system halt, I never looked about when it happened. My dad says don't let doctors touch me (but not in regards to my upcoming op). He had similar kinds of operations to you, and they are possibly inevitable to fix problems I have, I think I'll go with his advice until I can no longer, I figure what I can tolerate is better than something I might be unable to. I do hope they don't make a mess of the geometry and leave you with more than you can bare. Hmmm, makes me think of the Tron genre, uploading would fix such things.
A Harry Potter cyborg, I'm impressed, some people would be jealous. (I want to make a version of wikipe-tan as a cyborg for bot templates, Japanese style, as more than half of the robots in the universe live there, and they have those ones that look a bit like people now, where the humans they were modeled after get the willies when they see someone kiss their android, argh!) Penyulap 23:50, 21 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

Those anims are awesome! I can't easily think of concepts for illustrating the thought-processing differences between Autism-spectrum people and non-auties which would work as anims, though. I find it easy to create parallels like my varying-types-of-colour-blindness one, or the sound one: think of a piece of music with the treble turned right up and the bass very muted, compared with the same piece of music the other way up, if you see what I mean; it's the same piece of music, with all the same tracks, but it sounds completely different. It all depends on which parts of it you pick up on, and which don't really get through. A-spectrum vs. neurotypical thought processing is just like that. Pesky (talk) 05:57, 23 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

Those ones are kind of placeholders until I make some nicer, maybe longer ones, and a few extra panels. I am glad you like them, I have made a few for humans too, out of the ones here that I've made I'm happy for now with two or three, but they all still need work.
I can see an idea clearly that would address the multi-faceted nature of text, though I haven't got a nice piece of text in mind. Something with a massive band of wavelengths would be cool, any ideas ? Penyulap
This is why I find the parallels of light and sound so useful; we humans are only consciously aware of a small fraction of the wavelengths, and we each have our own areas of extra-perceptiveness. Infrasound is fascinating stuff ... Pesky (talk) 09:07, 25 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

It's payback time

The Ass Award
I return the favor of your ass with a nice intergluteal cleft. Thank you so much for expanding the zoo on my user page. Drmies (talk) 16:23, 22 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

ROFL! I thought you'd like my cute little ass ;P Pesky (talk) 16:31, 22 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

Today's experiment for the easily amused

... brush your teeth with an electric toothbrush, while looking at an LED number display (microwave, cooker, clock radio, etc.) Coolio! Who needs 'shrooms?! Pesky (talk) 23:49, 22 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

Check this out and tell me if it's civil

diff on my talk page Check the "Line 1" modification. The editor knew very well how I'd feel. Goodbye! --"DrYouMe"→"Mrt3366" (Talk?) 05:41, 23 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

My guess is that they just copy-pasted the name in at the top to make sure they had the spelling correct, to use in the message, and forgot to remove it before saving (I've done that myself, several times!) In all cases, no matter how hard it is, we all have to remember to assume good faith and suss out whether there's a perfectly innocent explanation for something. Having said that, the message on the whole was spot-on – we mustn't assume sockpuppetry just because two or more other editors have similar views and interests and are saying the same things.

I'm sure that once you've "found your feet" here you'll get on just fine; being a newbie is very hard, it's a very steep learning curve. But our really passionate newbies (and often those who get into a pickle because of their passion when they're new) often turn out to be our most outstanding editors :D Pesky (talk) 08:36, 23 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

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Everybody laugh at Pesky ...

Mother decided she wanted the pond's waterfall to flow faster. The tap is down on the pump, at the bottom of the pond. So I reached my arm as long as it would go, and then leaned over just a bit more ... and fell in!

An English garden pond is a very cold place in March! Pesky (talk) 14:33, 24 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

I'd love to know more about your setup; we've been wanting to build a little pond in our (big) yard, but the maintenance seems daunting... liners, power washing, blah, blah...I'd love to know a more "organic" (i.e. the way it worked before a lot of modern junk) was to do it --but have the little pump for a waterfall too... Ideas, hints? Montanabw(talk) 21:36, 25 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
We have one of those big preformed solid liners of about 800 gallons capacity, and a FishMate pump and a spider filter (which is a wonderful thing!). I rake settled debris (fallen leaves etc.) off the bottom of the pond occasionally with a softish grass rake, to help keep it clear, which seems to work well. Even without that, they're supposed to be able to go at least three years with a spider filter before you need to clean the pond (and I suspect that with raking fallen leaves out, it may possibly go almost permanently).

Ideally you want to build up a little mini ecosystem in the pond, so a selection of pond plants helps to encourage little mini-beasties in which eat even minier-beasties and algae. Several tench (and no, ours haven't grown to ridiculous sizes!) "hoover up" stuff from the bottom as well; and we have a selection of "decorative" fish. Different types have different food preferences, so if you have quite a few different types, among them all they'll eat a lot of things which would otherwise try to invade and take over. I also have a breeding farm for live fish food (brine shrimp, glassworms, tubifex worms and daphnia), which is basically a big dustbin filled with pond water, with a couple of oxygenating plants, into which I chucked a starter stock of live food. They just breed in there without predators, and I grab a bucketful of that and chuck it in amongst the marginal plants in the pond every couple of days, which adds to the things which eat algae, diatoms etc. And the fish eat them, which is why I breed them in a separate area. Pond snails do help keep algae (blanket weed) off the sides, but they actually prefer to eat the plants which you want to keep!

The only problem we've had was an invasion of blanket weed, but products to zap it aren't expensive, and work well. Pesky (talk) 05:48, 26 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

How are you doing? Recovering from Surgery?? Your pond sounds neat! How old is it, and how deep at the deepest spot? I'm all for doing a mini-ecosystem and using few or no chemicals. Our problem in Montana is the potential for -40 below in the winter (-40 is the same F or C, weird .. but either way, it's COLD!). Lots of the people here want to do stuff that's pretty high maintenance with lots of chemicals (and then they'd do that maintenance -- for a price!). I'd probably start out with feeder goldfish to see if they could survive, as we have raccoons, muskrats and other critters who would just love a daily banquet... Montanabw(talk) 17:57, 28 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
Yes, hope you're doing well. I'm enjoying the pondlife here! —MistyMorn (talk) 18:17, 28 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
I'm recovering, though my soft tissues in my neck are still pretty swollen. The wound on the front, with its row of staples, looks as though they've installed a zip for future use, lol! Our pond is only 3ft deep at the deepest, which works OK for our UK winters but might be too shallow for a Montana winter. A black metal mesh grid (fixed just below the surface level of the water) should keep critters out OK, without interfering much with visibility into the pond. We only had it installed about a year ago. I can never understand why people would want to go for chemical maintenance when the bio system can work so well! Pesky (talk) 08:37, 29 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
Extended content

Thought I'd reply here

... as I've made my point over there. Sure, I was mildly baiting MF, but that was in response to him randomly picking a fight with me at ANI - when that discussion was closed, I took it to his page. Without referring to you, it alarms me somewhat that an editor's disgraceful conduct is overlooked because he might be a "nice guy really" or do some good somewhere else. He tells people to eff off, calls people playground names and has been blocked for it over a dozen times. To be roundly criticised by a number of editors who a) had absolutely nothing to do with the discussion in hand, and b) are probably old enough to know better is a rum affair. As I say, no criticism of you, but if someone can't control his own puerile conduct, then he deserves the occasional ribbing at the very least. I'd have to get up very early in the morning to come anywhere near his violations of WP:CIVIL. Cheers, Bretonbanquet (talk) 13:27, 25 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

It takes two to tango. Your behaviour over at Malleus' talk page is highly uncivil, and is deliberate baiting. I read through the ANI section, and noticed that although the ArbCom case was quoted "for the prosecution", it included totalling the list of blocks, despite the fact that the same ArbCom case clearly agreed that a number of those blocks had been undeserved bad blocks. I suggest that you and you co-complainant actually look at some of those blocks; they were for perfectly acceptable behaviours, and considerably less uncivil than the comments thrown about at ANI about MF. Deliberate and willful baiting, for the self-confessed sake of amusement and entertainment, is behaviour unworthy of you. I suggest you let this drop before someone opens up an ANI thread on your deliberate baiting. Pesky (talk) 13:32, 25 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
I take that point, but I do not accept that calling someone out on their uncivil conduct represents similarly uncivil behaviour. I was not aware that some of the blocks were "bad blocks" - point taken, but had there not been so many "good blocks", there wouldn't have been so many bad ones. But the fact remains that Wikipedia seems to tolerate his behaviour where it would not be tolerated from others. The difference between me and MF is that I know what I was doing was pushing the limits, and he does not. My baiting was very mild, it was used to make a serious point, it won't be repeated, and I hold my hands up - and as an admin strangely said, he gave as good as he got. If he were to apologise for telling me to eff off, I would apologise for any offence caused to him. There won't be any ANI thread on my behaviour, I suspect. Bretonbanquet (talk) 13:46, 25 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
I wouldn't be too sure about that. If you keep this sort of nonsense up there most certainly will be, and soon. Malleus Fatuorum 14:15, 25 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
I've quite clearly said that I've made my point. I suggest you move on, or make your ANI thread now. Alternatively you could apologise, and I will do the same. Bretonbanquet (talk) 14:20, 25 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
You're still banging on here, and I really do find your childish excuses for your own poor behaviour to be quite extraordinary. Malleus Fatuorum 14:28, 25 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
I was having a discussion with someone else, if that's OK with you. I do not consider you to be a good arbiter of what constitutes poor behaviour, and I would doubt the judgement of anyone who did. We should not be using a third party's talk page to exchange unpleasantries, so I'll make this my last post here. The offer in my last post still stands. Bretonbanquet (talk) 14:34, 25 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
I'm not interested in your apology, what's done is done. Malleus Fatuorum 14:37, 25 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
Bretonbanquet, if I hadn't been going out, I would have taken it to ANI myself if you hadn't shut up; I'd already started to collect the diffs together on a scratchpad. It's not impossible that I may still do so, if you don't cease and desist immediately. Baiting someone deliberately – with malice aforethought – is a damned sight more uncivil than someone telling you to fuck off from their talk page when you've both called them the names you were spitting out, and invited them to tell you to fuck off. You knew your behaviour was unacceptable even before you started it; you did it on purpose to amuse yourself. And that is this discussion over, here on my page. Pesky (talk) 19:01, 25 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

I'm back

I am still alive ! I woke up hours ago, I'm not entirely happy with the work (I can already tell it's not done properly, because standards here are poor and they wouldn't listen to me). But I am ok ! (alive)

It was weird, I didn't like the tube into the hand. I don't like that at all. They left it there for ages before taking me to the theatre, and I didn't like that at all. They 'snuck' the anesthetic into it I think, but am not sure, because I remember leaving for the theater, but the memory gap begins before arriving in the theatre.

The whole thing was weird, if I can / could choose, I'd not have it in the same country again. But at least 1/2 the operation was completed ? I don't know if I should be happy or grumpy. Maybe 1/2 and 1/2 ? My friend here thinks I am complaining, I don't know. (he didn't have 1/2 an op though) Penyulap 11:04, 29 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

Hey, welcome back! One's first op is a truly weird thing! I've had so many now that I'm pretty much used to it all. Be happy, not grumpy. They usually give you some happy-juice before they get the major anaesthetic into you; the happy juice has very litte effect on me as I'm somewhat conditioned to opiates anyway. It sounds as though you flew through the anaesthetic without complications, which is great news, as it means you're likely to have good results on future ops if needed. The main thing is you;re OK right now, and any future work which needs to be done can be done as and when. The first few days after an op, you can never really tell how it went (it always feels bizarre for a while, as they pull your soft tissues around quite a bit while they're working). Give it a week or so, and you'll probably find you feel much happier with it. Hugz to a fellow post-anaesthesia Wikipedian! Pesky (talk) 11:21, 29 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
Ta! and (hugz) as you like them. I do feel very strange. Too much blood and chemicals leaking into my mouth, and it won't stop yet. I think I need to try to sleep it off. It's annoying. Maybe in a few weeks I'll be proper and cheerful. I didn't like it, and I don't like it and I'll never like it I'm sure. If I ever like this sort of thing, then I'd know something is really wrong. I shouldn't talk when I am not feeling well, I don't sound nice. Penyulap 16:45, 29 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
Thankfully I've not had many operations that required general anaesthesia, only two that I can remember, but the worst thing I've found is the sore throat after having the tubes rammed down there. The post-anaesthetic phase is great otherwise. Malleus Fatuorum 17:36, 29 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
Aww, Penyulap! Never mind if you sound a bit not-quite-nice, we're all a bit "off" after surgery. I'm not saying that (normal!) people get to like surgery, just that it ends up not being so scary, and it's almost always worth it for the results. Hopefully you'll be feeling a lot better soon. @Malleus - yes, post-intubation can be a bit sore, but in my experience they seem to be getting much better at it than they used to be :o) And the lovely constant top-ups of morphine in the recovery room do help. Pesky (talk) 17:43, 29 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
The sore throat thing sucks. Post-anasthesia life is interesting, after my father's second bypass, he must have thought post-surgery was pre-surgery because until all the drugs cleared his brain, he seemed to believe he wouldn't pull through and kept asking forgiveness for the assorted sins and misdemeanors of his youth; over and over again. Some where news to me... =:-O Montanabw(talk) 21:52, 29 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
Who knows if it was true, maybe it was all just a drug-induced illusion. Speaking of which, while under the influence of LSD some time in the mid-1970s I found myself under attack from Stuka dive bombers while I was filling up my car at a petrol station. And as if that wasn't bad enough they and some accompanying Messerschmitts strafed me on the road after I'd left. Happy days! Malleus Fatuorum 22:03, 29 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
"We can't stop here. This is bat country." Etc...! ;o) Nortonius (talk) 23:04, 29 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
I was always amused by the "I never inhaled" bollocks when politicians were asked if they'd ever smoked marijuana. I've never inhaled it either, as I used to suffer from asthma and as a result never smoked anything, but I've eaten it many times. I'd have to say it doesn't do much for me though; still looking forward to Pesky's shipment of magic mushrooms. ;-) Malleus Fatuorum 23:40, 29 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
I think I was convinced to vote for Obama when I read his book, where he stated, "of course I inhaled. That was the point." In my case, inhalation was primarily second hand, as I was always kind of a nerd and knew it would get worse under chemical influence. Montanabw(talk) 00:01, 30 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
My psychology professor (kind of) encouraged us to try LSD, as a way of understanding what a fragile thing our perception of reality actually is. It's certainly something you'd never forget, but I don't think I'll ever do it again; I learned the lesson. Malleus Fatuorum 00:29, 30 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
Let me just add this. There's a guy in my local Asda who used to irritate the Hell of me. Nothing to do with anything he ever said or did, my hackles just rose whenever I saw him. While idly pondering on why someone I'd never even spoken to might get my back up like that I was reminded of my instruction in Transactional Analysis; he reminded me of my father, and I was replaying old scripts. Nothing to do with him at all. Malleus Fatuorum 00:23, 30 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

Back at home to lick wounds. I remember they pulled some tube out of my nose (yuk) while I was just waking up. I woke up fighting actually. As soon I was awake i was signing(talking) with one hand before the rest could move, and within a minute or 5 I was pulling out that nasty thing in the back of my hand. It wasn't a needle, there was a long thin tube inside the skin. It was like that movie Aliens it was disgusting to have something inside me like that, I peeled off the tape and pulled it out. it was like an inch long, or maybe my memory distorts the length, but it must have been at least 15mm, and probably a mm wide and yuk. Even though the Aliens in that movie seem worse to you, it doesn't to me, cause the aliens are on tv and that thing was in my hand. Haven't you had nasty parts too Pesky? there has to be some things that make you eewew. but not to think about, I don't like to think of it. I want to go to bed now and sleep I think (soon). Penyulap 11:45, 30 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

Penyulap, that's just the little mini-hosepipe (flexible) which they can leave inside a vein for when they want to push more drugs. It's long and flexible so that it can just lie in there without damaging the vein walls (hopefully!), and means they don't have to keep sticking you with needles, because they have an access point already plumbed in. Having the drain removed from my neck was very weird! You have this feeling as though there's some (yes, alien!) wormy thing wriggling around where it has no right to be. Mind you, the dear little soul of a nurse who removed it (and who looked about 13) did the best drain-remove I've ever had done in my life; I told both her and her immediate superior how impressed I was with her. I think the worst drains I ever had were two great big suckers of about 7mm diameter, one each side of my abdomen, which had to stay in for nearly a month, so everywhere I walked I was carrying two gunk-filled little "handbags" around with me. Yuk!

Penyulap, sleep, and sleep, and then sleep more. It's a good thing to do, after anaesthesia. But, between sleeps, get up and move around so you avoid the possibilities of getting clots, and drink as much watery-based drinks as you can bear to pour down your throat. And remember that pain-killers were invented for a reason – in this day and age, there's just no reason to put up with pain when you don't have to. @Malleus, it's not permitted to ship shrooms around the country other than for research purposes, so if you want to sample the local cuisine, you have to pick your own! And then eat them in situ ... Pesky (talk) 07:22, 31 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

I know what they were up to with the alien thing, but your other readers might not have. I figured as soon as I woke up that if they wanted to give me any more drugs they could ask or give it to me in pill form, it's safer.
I think it is very important to tell people who are acting in a professional manner that they are professional, right away. I think we share that trait, however I also have the habit of telling people when they are acting in an unprofessional manner, right away, which leads to no end of problems (sigh, don't worry, everyone has told me not to). The pain is no problem, not very much except where the bleeding won't stop around the stitches (nothing to worry about). I am of the school of thought that pain is not meant to be masked because it is valuable as information. So I avoid that sort of thing, and codine is intolerable after a while because I can't tolerate having my head in a daze. I will wait a day or a few days and then cut out the stitch that keeps bleeding so I can heal up properly. Penyulap 10:58, 31 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

I did sleep today, during the afternoon, for another reason. When I was waking up, I had dreamt that I was editing, although I can't remember where on wiki. I looked for the mouse, which I was sure was just in my hand. While I was waking up slowly, I thought the mouse was in the bed with me in my hand. It wasn't. That is what really happened. but for a "Mythbusters" version, with something I found, and I edit spaceflight articles mostly, I dreamt that space agencies had sent teams of engineers to my bathroom, and they were assembling a satellite on the bathroom floor, of course satellite are bigger than bathrooms, but this one was scaled down, along with the engineers. The satellite was a blue cylindrical one with deep blue colored solar panels all around it, and it was on the floor amongst the porcelain of the bathroom fittings. The engineers would walk up to it and touch it with probes, they were dressed all in white or all in yellow with facemasks and suits that completely covered their heads. They carried test instruments with long curly cords connecting to the test probes. I like that dream better, because it comes with a real picture complete with miniature engineers. Penyulap 11:22, 31 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

ARGH

I just looked at aliens film article, bad idea, it scared me a heap as soon as i got down as far as the one on the face and stuff around there. ARGH! Not a good idea. Surgery + things inside your veins + aliens article + mouthful of blood = BAD IDEA!!!!! I goto bed. Penyulap 11:50, 30 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

Health

Hi Pesky, I heard that you recently went through some health related issues - and I wanted to pass along my prayers, and best wishes that everything is working out well. Sending some Gampa hugz, and a few wolfie kisses your way. Hope all is well. — Ched :  ?  12:04, 29 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

[Pesky revels luxuriously in hugz and kissies] Yup, I'm back from surgery! Brain is still a bit post-anaesthesia foggy, but it's incredible to have so much more function already in my left arm, despite the post-op swelling etc.! I'm really pleased with the results, so far, and expect it just to keep on getting better over the next three months or so. Modern surgical technology is a wonderful thing :D Pesky (talk) 12:12, 29 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

Good to hear that the surgery has gone well and that you're bouncing back. Best wishes, PamD 13:07, 29 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

Thanks, Pam :o) Pesky (talk) 13:10, 29 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
Hi Pesky, if you want a simple project, want to tweak my newest article, cavaletti, maybe add more sources, perhaps propose a DYK hook? Montanabw(talk) 06:54, 31 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
Nice little article :D How about "DYK that ... cavaletti are multi-function horse training aids invented by Federico Caprilli over 100 years ago?"

P.S. My good source books are all in storage, but, if I remember, I will have a look around for some more sources. Pesky (talk) 08:32, 31 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

Thanks for the offer...

...but I am reasonably confident he was just trying to use that as a shield from criticism. Which, IMHO, is fairly reprehensible. Still, I'll keep it in mind if I run into something similar again. --Floquenbeam (talk) 14:27, 30 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

Oh yes, that was a blatant "here's my excuse, deal with it!" manoeuvre, which is why I answered him (possibly a little tersely!) Being on that scale myself, and having taught a lot of Aspie/Autie spectrum people, I can generally spot when someone's totally genuine or when they're taking the piss! And that was pure piss-taking. On the more serious note, I'm dead happy to be "interpreter" when needed, as I've discovered little keyholes, as it were, to bridging the perception gap, which usually work very well. Hugz ;P

Adding: If he's a "wriggler" who looks for loopholes to do what he wants to do anyway, just don't leave him a millimetre of wriggle-room. Instead of using words like "should", "shouldn't", "best not to", etc., be absolutely uncompromising "do", "don't", "never", etc. Pesky (talk) 07:28, 31 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

I'm slightly familiar with Aspergers issues (some of my kids' friends are on various parts of the spectrum, and we're friends with their parents), but probably to be honest I know just enough to think I know more than I do. I wonder if this is going to be a blue link: WP:ASPIE... Nope, guess not. Someone who does know what they're talking about (hint, hint) should think about putting together a page of tips for A/A editors here. Might come in handy. (or if there is such a page, redirect that link to it.) Can't stay online much longer, thanks for offering to help there. --Floquenbeam (talk) 13:54, 31 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
I'm fairly happy for my talk page to be the A-Team page, lol! Pesky (talk) 18:51, 31 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

Reply

Hey thanks for the reply on my talk page for your comment. I will take them into consideration. Still, I realise that I shouldn't have used my disability as an excuse to get away with what I wanted because It pissed of Floquenbeam, and Strange Passerby at the same time. It was a bit tad far and I apologize for the inconvenience and the disruption caused. I realize that my actions could affect the other people around me. IF you think I am going to use this all the time to get away with what I want, please note that I do all I can to try not to do such a thing. If there's anymore I feel unaware of, can I come and ask you for guidance? If so, Thanks and Happy End of March. :)Soviet King (talk) 10:07, 31 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

Hey, not a problem! Seriously, there are loads of us in here (and several of my talk-page stalkers will grin here, knowing who I mean!) Being on the Aspie/Autie spectrum doesn't have to be a problem, it's just a different way of seeing / hearing the world, and we have to learn our way around it. But we see a lot of stuff which neurotypical people totally miss out on, too, which is often the exact stuff that can make us really good editors. You can always come over here to my talk, the only ground rules I have here are that we're gentle with each other, no battles allowed, just kinda like a support team structure for when people need it. Chin up; it's not as bad as you think, we just need to be that extra bit careful sometimes! Pesky (talk) 10:14, 31 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
Thanks, really. Much appreciated. I will notify Floquenbeam also that I have talked to you and that I will talk about what terms should I agree to work on. See you around. Soviet King (talk) 10:18, 31 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
If I were you, I'd post an apology and an "I will try to do better!" note onto Floq's talk and onto Strange Passerby's talk as well; just a sort of "Yes, I did wrong, sorry I did that, hope we can all move on OK with each other now" kind of thing. Apologising when we did wrong is always a good thing to do. Pesky (talk) 10:26, 31 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]
Hey SK, I'm not sure how old you are (and therefore how much experience you have of being A-Spectrum), but I'm a granny, and I have A-Spectrum relatives, and I've also taught A-Spectrum people. I can understand why you flipped there. For us A-Spectrum types, sometimes it just feels as though people are setting out to get at us, or being stupid or blind or stubborn or whatever, and it feels as though they deliberately tried to piss us off. And then, if we're not careful, we "hit back" by doing something to piss them off, as though they'd done it on purpose. (Which they usually didn't!) I've found both online and in Real Life that the best thing to do, when we get all snitty like that and want to lash out, is to take some down-time. Disconnect, walk away, focus on something totally different and soothing. Some of us need a couple of hours; sometimes, if it's really bad, some of us need weeks of downtime. But, if you start to feel snappy, log off for at least several hours; then when you've had a bit of quiet time, if you need some help dealing with something, just ask for the help. If I'm not here on my talk, I expect one of my A-Spectrum stalkers would be able to help you out. Always remember, when you're feeling pissed off, that the chances are that the other person wasn't doing it on purpose, OK? Pesky (talk) 10:45, 31 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

WP:V mediation compromise drafts

Hello Pesky, this is just to let you know that to help find compromise drafts at the verifiability mediation, I would like each mediation participant to submit at least one draft at one work group that includes the best of all the previously submitted drafts of that work group. This will probably make more sense if you look at this section on the mediation page, but if anything is still unclear, just let me know. Best regards — Mr. Stradivarius 17:36, 31 March 2012 (UTC)[reply]

your implants, hmm, legal or cheating ?

The latest artificial implant technology increases ThatPeskyCommoner's editing stamina and endurance. Additional plating has been installed encapsulating her central nervous system communication pathways. This will lead to significantly increased performance. This surgery is technically legal in ThatPeskyCommoner's jurisdiction.

I made a pic for you pesky. I started off thinking how your mods are sort of like the android technology, and then I came across a texture for an android eye, and added it to another image, but it went off in a totally not you direction, but ok for an actual wikibot. But then I saw this sprightly lass, and thought yep, that's pesky. Unless it's like one of those can't get out of bed feeling too creaky days, then there are other ways to feel. HAHA just kidding. Actually I feel that way about 30 % of days when I walk (but only for a while). But I'm ok. You're ok too I do hope. Penyulap 13:52, 1 April 2012 (UTC)[reply]

Hahahaaaaaa! That is absolutely brilliant! Thank you so much! I am feeling not too bad, though I woke unable to turn over this morning (other half got morphine for me), as I'd been sleeping in one position for about 16 hours, and been awake for the whole 36 hours before that!

I'm glad you're beginning to feel better. Give it a fortnight or so, and you'll hardly know it was done. Pesky (talk) 06:22, 2 April 2012 (UTC)[reply]

I'm not on pain(mind)killers yet, but I've stated anti inflammatory med and anti biotics. Penyulap
If you can tolerate anti-inflammatory medications, they will do you a heap of good. Inflammation both causes pain and can interfere with healing, so knocking that on the head serves more than one purpose. I have to rely on pain-killers for the most part as there's only one NSAID that I can tolerate, and I'm already maxed-out on the dosage of it! Hugz; keep improving! You'll end up just fine. Remember to get plenty of fresh air, fresh fruit and veg, and loads and loads of water-based fluids. These things will all help healing to go faster. Herbal teas with echinacea are particularly good for boosting your immune system to ward off infections in the op site, and chamomile herb teas are also a bit anti-inflammatory, and will help your sleeping. Add honey to them; honey is one of those "magic" foodstuffs whose properties are still being discovered. Pesky (talk) 07:20, 2 April 2012 (UTC)[reply]
Out of that lot I can manage honey and water, that's about all. Plus, I did honey, and even after my mouth had cleared there'd be some sweet taste now and then even after my mouth was empty, suggesting one hole is rather deep and not good, it stretches quite a ways. A different one reached my eye socket I think before. But it should all be well, I try not to eat in a way that will enter the wounds I think. But I should be ok (fingers crossed), and you should keep recharging.(I change the pic, so you have two, to indicate mood) Penyulap
You can almost certainly buy herbal teas on eBay. They're cheap, they ship / post well, and should arrive very quickly. Trust me, it's worth it! Pesky (talk) 07:52, 2 April 2012 (UTC)[reply]
I'm not on speaking terms with paypal and fleabay at the moment. I can, but I choose not to, at one point I think I tried to sign in and it said something about the IP I was using at the time and wouldn't let me, so I haven't bothered trying to spend since, as it was the last straw after the whole ANTI-human rights stance they took. I think I recall there was a picture of a burning child which stopped the Vietnam war. The information that wikileaks publishes can easily stop millions of people getting killed. Paypal took a stance that was blatantly against humanity, so I'm not interested in them anymore. Not for ages anyhow. But I will look for some tea at the shop I think. Anyhow, why are you still typing, aren't you supposed to be sleeping ? sleep-editing, like sleepwalking. Penyulap 08:23, 2 April 2012 (UTC)[reply]
No, I need to be moving around now, having slept in one position for so long! We're just about to go off and collect a load of stuff which we bought at a farm auction on Friday, so I'll be afk for a few hours now. The weather is glorious down here this morning; we had a bit of overnight frost, but we have clear blue skies, gentle breeze and bright sunshine now, which we will make the most of :o) Pesky (talk) 08:58, 2 April 2012‎ (UTC)[reply]
That will do more than tea can ever do ! you're charging faster now ! I am eating something green now. Penyulap 09:22, 2 April 2012 (UTC)[reply]

A caterpillar? Pesky (talk) 17:38, 2 April 2012 (UTC)[reply]

File:Chipetting (+ "I have a pet eight-foot boa constrictor" ).jpg
Eating hurts a bit, and might cause more swelling.
Ha! I am not eating a caterpillar. But oh Pesky, and your entourage too, let's find and film an inch-worm !! That would make a nice addition. It could climb all over wikipedia ! ( a better mascot maybe as some people think wikipe-tan is creepy, but the majority of humanity thinks that a creepy centipede is creepy, it's hardwired into our brains ), Inchworms are quite cute, or not. Are you scared of creepy crawly things ? Penyulap 01:14, 3 April 2012 (UTC)[reply]
Creepy crawly things, on the whole, don't scare me. I don't like big spiders, but I'm not actually scared of them, as such. I'm a bit allergic to wasp stings, so I try to avoid them where I can. I'd be very wary of seriously venomous snakes, for obvious reasons, though our British adders don't worry me at all (I've been bitten three times, and it's never been much of a problem!) We have them on our ponies' field, and of course there are plenty out on the Forest. I have a pet eight-foot boa constrictor - so clearly large (non-venomous) snakes don't scare me either – though obviously one has to be careful around them. Never handle them without another person around in case of emergencies, kinda thing. Cuddles is, for the most part, pretty chilled out, though she does sometimes have a few "behavioural issues", lol! Pesky (talk) 08:39, 3 April 2012 (UTC)[reply]

WP:V mediation step five

Hello Pesky, this is another update about the verifiability mediation. We have now started step five, in which we will work towards deciding a final draft for each work group. I would like you to submit a statement about this - have a look at the mediation page to see the details of what you should include. The deadline for this step is 10.00 am on Friday 6th April (UTC), and unlike the other steps I am going to be strict about it. If you don't leave a statement by the deadline, then you won't be able to participate in steps six or seven. If you think you are going to be late turning in your statement, please let me know as soon as possible - I can't promise anything, but it will be much easier to work out alternative arrangements now than it would be after the deadline has passed. Best regards — Mr. Stradivarius 17:43, 2 April 2012 (UTC)[reply]

A big NPT update

Hey! Big update on what the developers have been working on, and what is coming up:

coding

  • Fixes for the "moved pages do not show up in Special:NewPages" and "pages created from redirects do not show up in Special:NewPages" bugs have been completed and signed off on. Unfortunately we won't be able to integrate them into the existing version, but they will be worked into the Page Triage interface.
  • Coding has been completed on three elements; the API for displaying metadata about the article in the "list view", the ability to keep the "patrol" button visible if you edit an article before patrolling it, and the automatic removal of deleted pages from the queue. All three are awaiting testing but otherwise complete.

All other elements are either undergoing research, or about to have development started. I appreciate this sounds like we've not got through much work, and truthfully we're a bit disappointed with it as well; we thought we'd be going at a faster pace :(. Unfortunately there seems to be some 24-72 hour bug sweeping the San Francisco office at the moment, and at one time or another we've had several devs out of it. It's kind of messed with workflow.

Stuff to look at

We've got a pair of new mockups to comment on that deal with the filtering mechanism; this is a slightly updated mockup of the list view, and this is what the filtering tab is going to look like. All thoughts, comments and suggestions welcome on the NPT talkpage :). I'd also like to thank the people who came to our last two office hours sessions; the logs will be shortly available here.

I've also just heard that the first functional prototype for enwiki will be deployed mid-April! Really, really stoked to see this happening :). We're finding out if we can stick something up a bit sooner on prototype.wiki or something.

I appreciate there may be questions or suggestions where I've said "I'll find out and get back to you" and then, uh. not ;p. I sincerely apologise for that: things have been a bit hectic at this end over the last few weeks. But if you've got anything I've missed, drop me a line and I'll deal with it! Further questions or issues to the usual address. Thanks, Okeyes (WMF) (talk) 17:06, 3 April 2012 (UTC)[reply]

Whoooo-hoooo! I'm actually looking forward to getting back into it, lol! Pesky (talk) 07:48, 4 April 2012 (UTC)[reply]

aaaarrrrgh! argh, argh, argh!

3: latissimus dorsi
7: supraspinatus
8: infraspinatus
Trapezius

So, motor function is back to all those muscles which had mega-reduced nerve input before the op. And, of course, since they haven't been working properly for months and months, they are all grossly unfit and soft. And I can't switch off the nerve supply to rest them!

So, my supraspinatus, infraspinatus, rhomboid, trapezius and part of the latissimus dorsi muscles have been merrily working away, non-stop, and now they are on fire and swelling up, just as you'd expect unfit muscles to be when you suddenly start remorselessly working them, non-stop! Arrrrrrrrggghhhhhhhh! Serious muscle pains! Pesky (talk) 07:57, 4 April 2012 (UTC)[reply]

Oh no, poor Pesky! *biggest ever hug* OohBunnies! Leave a message :) 08:16, 4 April 2012 (UTC)[reply]
Super owch, things do go downhill fast when you can't use it. I know where you're at. Take a bubble bath. It may or may not help, but either way it'll feel nice and you have an excuse so no-one can mess with the idea. On the scale of good advice from bubble bath to get out there and mow your neighbors lawn, I'd think it's a reasonably good idea. Penyulap
I've had the staples taken out of the wound this morning; another two days and I'll be allowed to have that bubble bath! Can't wait! Just had a call from the local police to say that someone's cut the fence down on our field and two of the ponies got out, so Other Half has zoomed off with the fencing material to repair the fence. That really annoys me! All people have to do, if they want to walk on the field (which we allow, for those who are well-behaved), is to walk around the corner and use the damned pedestrian, horse-proof gate which we put there especially for them, but no, they decide they want access closer to their favourite route instead ... people make me spit, sometimes! Pesky (talk) 09:26, 4 April 2012 (UTC)[reply]
Take a soft hug, please! What can I say, looking at the pictures and trying to imagine how it hurts? Another image for you, with passion, nominated for the Main Page on Good Friday, - still in the process of improving the article, see my talk, Passion, comments welcome, --Gerda Arendt (talk) 09:49, 4 April 2012 (UTC)[reply]
Megahugz! [being careful not to hurt] About the fence, honestly, WTF?! Nortonius (talk) 10:49, 4 April 2012 (UTC)[reply]
Thanks for the huggies! Hugs always appreciated over this way, lol! (Nice careful muscle-massages also welcome ;P) @Gerda: lovely pic; what a nice idea to have that DYK for Good Friday. It's a beautiful piece of music, that. I'm zapping the muscles with Powergel (Ketoprofen gel), the usual painkillers, and massage. Eventually they will settle down, it's just the process of them fittening-up again, which is transitory. Other Half has done a good-enough-for-now fix on the fence; it still needs finishing off, but it will do for the time being. It's the kids who live in that little road who are the problem – it doesn't seem to occur to them that if they can walk through, then so can the ponies! I think we'll have to resort to putting a kiddie-sized hole-type stile into the fence there so they have no reason to wreck it; apparently some of them "aren't allowed" to walk around to the gate. Can't think why, the roads there are quiet, narrow little residential lanes, it's not as if there's dangerous traffic on them! Pesky (talk) 12:18, 4 April 2012 (UTC)[reply]
We sang it in 1998, 2009 and 2010, the second time a crop of that picture was the poster. Dr. Blofeld just helped me to fill three red links for the poets. I read "Mir hat die Welt trüglich gericht't" (The world has judged me deceitfully), - that rang a bell again, liberty bell, --Gerda Arendt (talk) 12:37, 4 April 2012 (UTC)[reply]
I miss singing! I used to do an awful lot of vocal and choral work, and thoroughly enjoyed it. I remember the Ernest Read concerts with a great deal of affection; we did one once, in London, with a choir of over 2000 people, singing The Messiah. Incredible stuff. Pesky (talk) 13:17, 4 April 2012 (UTC)[reply]
He was despised, Andreas Scholl sang it for us last year, --Gerda Arendt (talk) 15:22, 4 April 2012 (UTC)[reply]
I miss singing, I built a professional career around singing actually. It's true, I made a lot of money. I don't do it these days of course, they have those new chemicals that stay for months after you spray, whereas my voice only killed cockroaches and spiders and things on the day I sang, after I got paid and left, the home would again fill with pests. Now days pest control is all done with chemicals I'm afraid. Penyulap 15:00, 4 April 2012 (UTC)[reply]

HFA UBX

That's what I came for, about the UBX 4 HFA which is DOA ATM. I had been thinking to have a short sentence where words switched with synonym or pictures, the way a Rubik's Cube changes on it's face. So the same sentence presents the multitude. That was the idea, but I can't think of any decent sentences for it. I got excited when I saw that 3 people have chosen to use my ubx's. even though I hadn't really finished PenTrain properly at all, and though I better get to work, but the HFA I thought I better ask for help with on the ideas, as I was going nowhere. Penyulap 15:17, 4 April 2012 (UTC)[reply]

If you want some concepts for HFA, you could switch from one phrase to another, using something like "Same tracks, different mix" , "Same shapes, different colours", "Just hardwired another way", "Better at some things and worse at others". I can't immediately think of a suitable sentence, just switching words. Pesky (talk) 17:44, 4 April 2012 (UTC)[reply]

Draft 0 of group 4

Hi! What didn't you like about Draft 0 of group 4? Regards, --Bob K31416 (talk) 21:23, 4 April 2012 (UTC)[reply]

Hi there; the only thing I really though it could do with a bit more depth / emphasis on was the way in which the core content policues work together (even putting that bit into a sub-heading might have been enough), and the "perceived truth and personal experience" not being a substitute for verifiability. It was succinct and concise (and well worded), I just felt it didn't quite have the weight it could do with, to deal with editors who get piggy about wanting their favourite stuff in. Pesky (talk) 08:55, 5 April 2012 (UTC)[reply]
Thanks. Regards, --Bob K31416 (talk) 11:01, 5 April 2012 (UTC)[reply]

Years of Red Dust

Hi! I notice you added a notability concern tag to Years of Red Dust. The good news is I found that the New York Times book review wrote about this book. Want me to find more reviews? WhisperToMe (talk) 07:57, 5 April 2012 (UTC)[reply]

Not personally, though obviously everything you can add in the way of independent sources is always good (so long as you don't ref-bomb it beyond what is reasonable!) Within reason, the better something is referenced, in quality and quantity of sources, the better. Just add them in. Pesky (talk) 08:57, 5 April 2012 (UTC)[reply]

Dispute resolution survey

Dispute Resolution – Survey Invite


Hello ThatPeskyCommoner. I am currently conducting a study on the dispute resolution processes on the English Wikipedia, in the hope that the results will help improve these processes in the future. Whether you have used dispute resolution a little or a lot, now we need to know about your experience. The survey takes around five minutes, and the information you provide will not be shared with third parties other than to assist in analyzing the results of the survey. No personally identifiable information will be released.

Please click HERE to participate.
Many thanks in advance for your comments and thoughts.


You are receiving this invitation because you have had some activity in dispute resolution over the past year. For more information, please see the associated research page. Steven Zhang DR goes to Wikimania! 11:19, 5 April 2012 (UTC)[reply]

A barnstar for you

The Modest Barnstar
In recognition of all the work you’ve done lately! 66.87.2.116 (talk) 13:49, 5 April 2012 (UTC)[reply]