Date: April 25, 2009 01:48 pm Title: The Lost Art Of Humiliating Childhood Games
Wow. That chapter melted my brain a little.. so I'm going to try and come up with some coherent sentences... *takes a deep breath.*
I'm so glad Jim and Pam might be getting the house. I can understand the disappointment of having your heart set on a house, only to have things not work out. But to see them so happy at the prospect of things potentially working out is wonderful!
A third installment? I believe the eloquent phrase I'm looking for is, "Hell yes!" I'd love to see the adventures of Jim, Pam, (and Molly!) continue on, potentially adding a seven-foot tall basketball playerto the clan? Even if you went in a completely different direction story-wise, working on something new, I would be a fan without a doubt!
Thanks for the update! You rock!
Author's Response: Jim and Pam are such a great team, aren't they? Sometimes I even find myself, as I'm writing, uttering, "Gag mr! Like any marriage is that perfect," and yeah, Jim and Pam are so obviously still in the whole honeymoon phase, as evidenced by the impromtu sex on the kitchen floor thing, but I watch the actual show and I can't shake the feeling that those two really are a perfect match for each other. Perhaps it's jim's relaxed and carefree "roll off the shoulder" attitud and his undying devotion to Pam, always accepting her for who she is and wants to be, and Pam is equally relaxed in he own way, taking time to just enjoy life and take things one step at a time... And anyway, those traits are probably more closely related to this AU than the actual show, but either way it's such an interesting relationship to watch and such an inspiration to everyone because it's just so real an relatable, and it helps prove that your prefect mate really is out there, somewhere... I ended up on such a random tangent here and I apologize. I guess what I'm trying to say, or wanted to say, is that my goal with this AU was to make it as real and relatable as possible, and I'm so glad that you have enjoyed that, the somewhat lack of a proper beginning, middle, end and beginning, plot, climax- this story sort of allows Jim and Pam to just be, and it's been so much fun to take part of this journey with all of you. ;). Thank you for the review!!
Date: April 25, 2009 01:26 pm Title: This Weekend at the Dane County Farmers' Market, I Found Something More Than Great Cheese...
Thank goodness for rainy weather. Now I can FINALLY get caught up on the awesomeness of Come On, Feel the Illinoise. This chapter was just too adorable for words. Jim and Pam battling with weird vegetables. Running into Karen (btw, LOVE that you've tied in the show again!) and her new beau Dan. And then Pam just looking at all the dogs, and end up falling in love with an adorable little puppy. (yes, I followed the link to the dog. Yes, I went, "awww, she's so cute! *incoherent high-pitched squeals*") Just cute cute cute. :D Am off to enjoy the new chapter!
10 [Report This]Date: April 25, 2009 08:11 am Title: The Lost Art Of Humiliating Childhood Games
Great work, I was starting to wonder what happened to you. But it was well worth the wait.
I would love to see a new installment. After reading both of your stories as they were made, nothing would please me more than another installment with Jim and Pam living in a house and possibly a pregnancy
Keep up the good work!
Author's Response: Ooh, Jim and Pam with babies. I must admit, the idea is intriguing... ;). I have lots of ideas rattling around in that crazy old head of mine, so we'll see. I'm glad you enjoyed this chapter. Thank you for the review!
Date: April 16, 2009 04:49 pm Title: This Weekend at the Dane County Farmers' Market, I Found Something More Than Great Cheese...
"I think I love her," omg that was so cute, I can totally see Pam falling in Love with Molly aw :)
LOVE THIS and missed you :)
10 [Report This]Date: April 13, 2009 09:03 am Title: This Weekend at the Dane County Farmers' Market, I Found Something More Than Great Cheese...
Oh my gosh the Farmers Market! And the Washboard guy! What wonderful callups! Love it. Still loving this story; so real and poignant. It really reflects the decisions and day to day lives of real people. Please keep the story coming, I'm always very excited to see a new post.
Author's Response: Ah, I can't wait to hit up the farmers market this year. Of course, for that I first need warmer weather to arrive. Today was absolutely miserable. So over the cold. I'm glad you're still enjoying the story. Thanks for the review!
10 [Report This]Date: April 12, 2009 04:52 pm Title: This Weekend at the Dane County Farmers' Market, I Found Something More Than Great Cheese...
oh, I want that dog.
&& you're forgiven for making me wait so long (:
Author's Response: Yay!
10 [Report This]Date: April 12, 2009 10:20 am Title: This Weekend at the Dane County Farmers' Market, I Found Something More Than Great Cheese...
AWWWWWWWW!! that dog is ADORABLE. just like this STORY.
and once again, yay for adoption and petfinder making a place in this story! kind of irrelevant, but this cheered me up after hearing this morning that Obama is getting his dog from a breeder after announcing he would rescue. Grr.
Aw. I love this story.
Author's Response: So disappointing, President Obama, even though their puppy is a cutie. I just wish, as the America's First Family and all, they would have set an example and gone about the adoption process a different way. Oh well. Thanks for leaving a review! Glad that you're still enjoying this story. :)
10 [Report This]Date: April 12, 2009 06:29 am Title: This Weekend at the Dane County Farmers' Market, I Found Something More Than Great Cheese...
YAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAY!!!!
First, best line: "Nope. You fail." OMG. That is amazing. Go Pam.
Even though since typing that, I've found about five other lines I could rightfully deem BEST LINE. Jim is too awesome. I must have him.
Okay, and by now I'm almost ready to give the pretigious title of Best Line to Karen. Oh my god. Stop messing with me.
Whew. Okay. Calm. Breathe. UPDATE SOON, YES?
Author's Response: Thank you- I'm glad you enjoyed this chapter. I am working on the next installment, although I've had a terrible case of writers block this month that I just can't shake off. :( oh, and I'm pretty sure I'm suffering from flu-likesymptoms today, which would make this the third time this year that I'm sick! Jeez. I blame the fact that it's practically still winter here in Chicago. I feel Pams misery in this chapter. Hate the weather here! Anyhoo, enough of my venting. I promise to have an update soon. Thank you so much for taking the time to review!
10 [Report This]Date: April 10, 2009 07:55 pm Title: Sorry, But I Was Led To Believe That Things Were Going To Be A Little Easier Than This
Okay, so over the last week or so I read IR&K. And then this one. Like, I sat for hours at a time and had to almost literally drag myself away.
Thank you for the intro to indie. Seriously, I went into this hating The Shins and not knowing Modest Mouse ever existed. You have no idea how many times I've listened to that original mix tape for Pam . . . I mean, really, it's kind of ridiculous at this point.
But thank you.
Author's Response: Hey there- I'm glad that you enjoyed these two stories and I'm humbled by your dedication to reading- sitting for hours at a time- wow! And I'm so happy to hear that you enjoyed the "soundtrack" as well. Indie definitely played a huge role in inspiring this story. Maybe because it just seems so "Jim". Hehe. Thanks for the kind review! I'm so happy to have you on board!
Date: April 01, 2009 07:04 pm Title: Sorry, But I Was Led To Believe That Things Were Going To Be A Little Easier Than This
Awww sad that the honeymoon is over already. Love this fic, can't wait to see what's next!
Date: March 30, 2009 06:08 am Title: Sorry, But I Was Led To Believe That Things Were Going To Be A Little Easier Than This
Once again, I have fallen behind on reviewing! Stupid life! :P Anyways, I've finally found a spare moment to tell you how deeply I adore this story. Even with all the angst of this chapter. It's very sad that the honeymoon is over for Jim and Pam, they were certainly adorable when they were so blissful. And i'm not sure if it was intentional or not, but the allusion to Diversity Day was pretty awesome. (the bottle of champagne being a sad reminder of a lost victory.) Anyways, you rock! Please don't leave us hanging for too long!
Author's Response: The tie-in wasn't intentional, but good eye in pointing that out. I wish I could take credit for that. Haha. Thank you so much for the kind words- I'm glad that you are still enjoying this story and that you're continuing to stick with me as I struggle through writer's block and coming down with the flu for the third time this year. Yes- seriously! What am I doing wrong where I keep getting sick? Ugh! Thanks for dropping a note- it's greatly appreciated! :)
Date: March 27, 2009 10:19 pm Title: Sorry, But I Was Led To Believe That Things Were Going To Be A Little Easier Than This
short! meh it's ok I forgive you. That's sad. Jim really wanted that house.
I'm a little afraid if Pam can't manage to make KD properly. Ahhh
love them
Date: March 27, 2009 08:46 pm Title: Sorry, But I Was Led To Believe That Things Were Going To Be A Little Easier Than This
Crap.
I don't want the honeymoon to be over. I am sad that there were big time disappointments for both Jim and Pam. But... I always try to remember how much prettier the sun looks after its been a bit gloomy. I have no doubt that you'll give us some pretty sunshine again. I like it when Jim and Pam have to opportunity to weather a storm together. It helps them learn to take care of each other and that is my favorite.
Oh... and does this mean that the puppy addition to their little family has to go on hold since there is no house right now? Again, I say, Crap.
Mostly, I really, really like how they are tryna figure things out together for their new life as Mr and Mrs James Halpert. From the teaching thing, the doggy, the house. It's all gonna be them, and so it is good for them to have to put in work and figure what will benefit their little family. I find, for me, that the harder I have to work to get what I want, the sweeter it is when I have it, and the better I treat it. So... easy isn't always for the best, although at the time...
How sweet is it that Pam is all about cooking dinner for her husband?
I am looking forward to Pam's focus working its magic for our couple!
And to come home from work tonite and see an update, after only a couple days, makes me think this is gonna be a great weekend!!
10 [Report This]Date: March 27, 2009 03:34 pm Title: Sorry, But I Was Led To Believe That Things Were Going To Be A Little Easier Than This
Okay, I did some further investigating. You need a masters to teach art in COLLEGE but not in K-12. But you do need a teaching certificate to teach K-12 along with a bachelors. I'm so sorry for giving you the wrong information! I was just going by what I had been told. I've heard conflicting information regarding teaching from counselors and advisors at my school all the time, seriously. So perhaps what you can do in the next chapter is have Pam realize that she and Jim mis-read the application? But I would definitely look more into teaching certificates and how long it takes to get them and what's required.
Anyhoo, back to a normal review! Loved that you've brought them back down to earth in the sense that they're realizing that getting what they want isn't as easy as they thought it would be. And I'm glad that you had Pam mention that it would probably be better in the long run if they wait until they can afford the house on their own instead of having to rely on their parents. I know that a lot of people have to rely on their parents for those sorts of things when they first get married but it would always be best in the long run if you were able to wait and do it for yourself, you know? Great chapter, as always!
Date: March 27, 2009 01:55 pm Title: Sorry, But I Was Led To Believe That Things Were Going To Be A Little Easier Than This
Aw no, poor Jim :( He had his heart set on that house :( Work your magic Pam - get him that house woman LOL.
As usual, this was gorgeous, I could totally picture him using his shirt to open his beet, and in my head I saw belly mmm :)
Date: March 27, 2009 01:45 pm Title: Sorry, But I Was Led To Believe That Things Were Going To Be A Little Easier Than This
awws, so sad.
but I'll survive (:
Date: March 26, 2009 01:54 pm Title: Postcards from California
awesome chapter.
yay (:
Date: March 26, 2009 06:37 am Title: Postcards from California
I don't comment enough on this jem of a story. You have mad me feel like I have experienced every detail of their lives. I hope you have many more ideas in your head. I would hate to see this one end.
Author's Response: Aw, well I am touched that you took the time to comment- thank you so much! I'm glad you're still enjoying the story, although I have to admit I only have a few more chapters planned... Although by few, I mean four or five. See, not that bad!
10 [Report This]Date: March 25, 2009 08:36 pm Title: Postcards from California
Oh, sorry, I was supposed to be finished, but I forgot to mention how shocked I was that Jim passed on last-chance-honeymoon-shared-shower-time with Pam. I mean, I realize that they'd had a a busy and eventful week, but c'mon, get up man!!
Now, I'm done.
Author's Response: This is true. I wondered this myself after the chapter was posted, like, "What man alive would ever turn down shower sex? Really?" Poor guy must have been really exhausted. Let's hope that he napped very well on the plane and made it up to her when they got home. ;)
10 [Report This]Date: March 25, 2009 08:10 pm Title: Postcards from California
I. Love. This.
And because of that, I am always willing to impatiently wait a week or so for new chapters from you. These chapters never, ever let me down, are always of good, high quality length and content, so my impatient waiting is always rewarded. Thank you!
Okay, again I love. The starting at the end of the vacation and taking us through flashes of their first week as a married couple was great. I loved them at the airport, if Jim really does charge by the half hour to be felt up, that may be worth working into the budget... I'm just sayin'... he's sexy.
The play in the ocean, Pam's good gotcha that got Jim off the dry beach was lots and lots of fun. And !BONUS! them at the end of the evening, washing off the salt and sand in the shower, nice work!
I really love how they balance each other out. Jim, writer and planner, loves Pam so much, he cannot wait to experience everything with her. Pam, free and artistic, loves THIS moment with her husband, and she wants to be able to savor and enjoy it, so she isn't looking to rush or move onto the next one. You do an awesome job writing them.
I loved Pam's confession in the car about having kids. Loved it even more when she followed it up with those Slugbugs to poor Jim's arm.
Oh, and last, but not least, I love Pam as a voyeur and Jim, our favorite SNPP.
Okay, what's next, what's next!?!? I said I was impatient:-D
Author's Response: Wow- first off, humbled by your kind words. Thank you for being patient with me as I've slowly churned these last few chapters out. I'm glad that you were pleased with the result. Yay!
My gosh, I just look forward to your comments so much. You should know this. You've definitely struck the balance I feel these two share, Jim being the thoughtful planner, always thinking ahead and Pam not quite ready to go full-speed ahead and just taking everything one step at a time. Her focus is going to come in handy in these next couple of chapters. And that is all that I will say for now.;)
Date: March 25, 2009 07:26 pm Title: Postcards from California
Awww what a sweet chapter and a perfect honeymoon. SO cute.
Author's Response: Thank you!
Date: March 25, 2009 06:55 pm Title: Postcards from California
I said "Look what you did, you little jerk" to one of my coworkers the other day and she didn't get the reference. I immediately felt like an ass. Also, as I read this chapter, Home Alone 2 was playing in the background on ABC Family. Strange...
Also, I just really love this story. I was a fan of Indie Rock, too, still on board!
Author's Response: Oh my gosh, if you had said that and I had been in the vicinity, we would have had a Home Alone quote smackdown! Ha-ha. How could anyone not catch the reference? That movie is a classic. I can't survive the holidays or even listen to one Christmas song without thinking about Macaulay Culkin fighting off poor Joe Pesci and Daniel Stern. Thank you for leaving a note, I'm glad to hear that you're still on board.
10 [Report This]Date: March 25, 2009 04:29 pm Title: Postcards from California
Maaaaaan, I was starting to get some sort of serious withdrawel here, I was THIS close to being hospitalized, and you would have been why - are you happy with yourself? :(
Okay so I freaking loved everything about this chapter. Having been to California A LOT, it was great seeing where they went and what they enjoyed, especially from Pam's POV...just the image of her getting excited by celebrity homes made me smile -)
Jim making an offer on the house - I loved how that totally git in with the show, but his speech about raising their kids in that small town, omg seriously you nearly killed me... again, you have a lot to apologize for ;)
California by Phantom Planet wins all, that song is just made of pure awesomeness, and I could totally hear Pam singing it CONSTANTLY, because 1. she loved it and 2. It bugged Jim the more she sung it lol.
I wish my review was better, but you have floored me, I think my brain is all mushy and useless right now.
*runs to read again*
Author's Response: I'm sorry that I have put you through such a long wait. I'm sure if you had to wait any longer, I would have received a stack of medical bills in the mail and been like, "Whaaaa?" Ha-ha.
I'm glad that you enjoyed this chapter, as I haven't been to California too often myself- just once on a family trip and I was, like, thirteen at the time, so I have to admit that Wikitravel came in handy. I love that "California" song, and anytime I hear it, it's always stuck in my head so I could definitely see Pam feeling the same way, and Jim equally being annoyed by it. Thanks for the review. As always, it was made of awesome!
Date: March 25, 2009 03:21 pm Title: Postcards from California
:D so cute. I loved the shower stuff... lol
Author's Response: Shower stuff, ooh la la. (*whistles*) Haha. Thanks for the review!
10 [Report This]Date: March 25, 2009 02:03 pm Title: Postcards from California
AHHHH FRIENDS REFERENCE!!! as if this story was not incredible enough as it is.
Jim is DEFINITELY a Chandler. I don't know about Pam. I think she's more of a Monica than a Rachel, but she's got some of both.
Funnily enough, there's a Friends deleted scene where Monica and Chandler banter at the airport security. I don't know if you knew that or not.
oohhhh my gawd this was just spilling with cuteness. i can't help but smile like a dork...at my monitor.
as always, i will close by begging you to never ever end this.
Author's Response: I love me some Friends- sad to admit I have all ten seasons on DVD because it definitely shows my inner-nerd but still, a proud accomplishment and expensive investment nonetheless. I have seen that deleted scene (season 8, right?) and I would be lying if I didn't say that somewhat inspired Jim and Pam's bantering at the security checkpoint. There may be a few other Friends references tossed around in previous chapters, too. Just saying. I've watched too much of that show. ;)
I'm glad that you enjoyed this chapter, and I hate to say that this story will in fact be coming to an end soon. It saddens me to bring it all to a close, but I hope you will be satisfied with the end result. Thank you for the review!