User talk:The Thing That Should Not Be/Archive 8

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Oops!

[1] I was just going to ask you to reconsider that reversion of the IP's edits and I see you self reverted! Playing fast and loose with Huggle again eh? :) Ha Ha. Pedro :  Chat  13:07, 18 October 2010 (UTC)

The Signpost: 18 October 2010

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Read this Signpost in full · Single-page · Unsubscribe · EdwardsBot (talk) 01:53, 19 October 2010 (UTC)

Dude, you should be an admin.

~NerdyScienceDude 03:44, 19 October 2010 (UTC)

And I'll co-nom if I have time to write one. Access Denied ^{[FATAL ERROR]} 03:52, 19 October 2010 (UTC)

Oppose per community consensus.  IShadowed  ✰  03:54, 19 October 2010 (UTC)

What do you mean? Access Denied ^{[FATAL ERROR]} 03:55, 19 October 2010 (UTC)

o.O ANowlin ^talk 04:03, 19 October 2010 (UTC)

I mean I oppose per community consensus.  IShadowed  ✰  03:56, 19 October 2010 (UTC)^talk 03:57, 19 October 2010 (UTC)

What consensus? Access Denied ^{[FATAL ERROR]} 03:58, 19 October 2010 (UTC)

Community consensus.  IShadowed  ✰  03:59, 19 October 2010 (UTC)

The community consensus made between her and her shadow apparently. ANowlin ^talk 04:00, 19 October 2010 (UTC)

The last RfA was eight months ago! Access Denied ^{[FATAL ERROR]} 04:01, 19 October 2010 (UTC)

Yes, and he hasn't changed since then.  IShadowed  ✰  04:03, 19 October 2010 (UTC)

Yes he has... ANowlin ^talk 04:04, 19 October 2010 (UTC)

Let's see, on this page right now there are 5 barnstars and no major issues. Access Denied ^{[FATAL ERROR]} 04:06, 19 October 2010 (UTC)

Agreed. I've seen no major issues recently either. ANowlin ^talk 04:07, 19 October 2010 (UTC)

Right, because immaturity isn't an issue. The only thing that matters is how many pretty barnstars someone has on their userpage. I totally agree with that logic.  IShadowed  ✰  04:08, 19 October 2010 (UTC)

I see a little of that, but not enough to be of much concern. I mean, come on. You complain about him, but yet you hang out and chat with him all the time in his channel on Freenode IRC... ANowlin ^talk 04:10, 19 October 2010 (UTC)

Ah, I see, so when I hang out with someone, that must inherently mean that I think they're a great candidate for RfA. Yes, and I live with my mother, too, but you're not going to see me supporting her for the presidency anytime soon.  IShadowed  ✰  04:11, 19 October 2010 (UTC)

My point is, you're hanging out with someone you call "immature." If you don't like immaturity, then why would you hang out with someone you call "immature?" ANowlin ^talk 04:13, 19 October 2010 (UTC)

He does not have the maturity to handle adminship. He does, however, have the maturity (and IQ) to carry a conversation. Besides, someone with an IQ of only approximately 20 can open a door. Really, talking isn't much harder.  IShadowed  ✰  04:14, 19 October 2010 (UTC)

Perhaps this conversation could take place somewhere off of my talk page? In the mean time, I'm going to mull over this overnight and make my decision in the morning. The Thing // Talk // Contribs 04:15, 19 October 2010 (UTC)

Yeah, let's move it to my talkpage! ...no. I don't see why a conversation about you should take place off your talk page. Not my problem if your bot pings you 1000 times on IRC.

(edit conflict × one million) Let's calm down everyone. And to The Thing, I strongly suggest that you accept this one. Access Denied ^{[FATAL ERROR]} 04:18, 19 October 2010 (UTC)

Break

IShadowed, you talk about me being immature, yet you make edits like this one... Hmmm... The Thing // Talk // Contribs 04:19, 19 October 2010 (UTC)

(edit conflict × 1 bazillion) Thing: Just go for it. IShadowed is just disgruntled, and holding what we call a grudge for the past. ANowlin ^talk 04:20, 19 October 2010 (UTC)

I don't have a grudge, I've never been angry with Thing for more than a minute, and those instances were completely regarding issues offwiki. Also, in response to Thing, yes, and do you see me running for RfA? No. And there is your difference.  IShadowed  ✰  04:22, 19 October 2010 (UTC)

Yes... notice the "offwiki" part of that, and then consider exactly what relevance that has to me being an admin. I don't exactly consider stuff on IRC to be as serious as stuff on Wikipedia. The Thing // Talk // Contribs 04:24, 19 October 2010 (UTC)

I find discussion on IRC often revolves around wiki, therefore I am inclined to believe that it is certainly relevant.  IShadowed  ✰  04:27, 19 October 2010 (UTC)

(edit conflict × (edit conflict × (edit conflict))) I've had so many edit conflicts, I forgot what I was going to say... ANowlin ^talk 04:28, 19 October 2010 (UTC)

Oppose - You have very poor judgement, are short tempered, and worst or all, you didn't give me any cake and ice cream to celebrate your nomination!!! :P Congrats, and you have my support. ANowlin ^talk 03:57, 19 October 2010 (UTC)

Support Will be looking for this one. :) Plan to be in the top 5. :)--Talktome^(Intelati) 04:25, 19 October 2010 (UTC)

I don't think we need to have a mini-rfa on this talk page guys... - Kingpin¹³ (talk) 05:35, 19 October 2010 (UTC)

Ok, I've thought it over... No offense intended, but I would be more comfortable with a nominator who has more experience... it takes more than pointing out barnstars and not having major issues to be a good nomination. In addition, I feel I haven't fully prepared myself for an RfA just yet (Though I would bet that I'll probably never be ready for an RfA fully when I eventually run...). Sorry guys, but I must decline this nomination. The Thing // Talk // Contribs 12:17, 19 October 2010 (UTC)

So you're saying an editor with almost a year of editing and 12,000+ edits isn't experienced enough to be your nominator. I wasn't even planning to mention the barnstars. And in case you wanted to know, I am a successful nominator. As I have more experiencethan I did then, I would probably be able to write a much longer nom than on that RfA. ~NerdyScienceDude 12:27, 19 October 2010 (UTC)

Oh, hmm... seems I got mixed up between the dozens of comments on here wanting to co-nom and whatnot (I had just barely woken up too, so... yeah).[2] I'll still need to think it over... The Thing // Talk // Contribs 12:35, 19 October 2010 (UTC)

Go ahead and write up a nomination statement. The Thing // Talk // Contribs 12:46, 19 October 2010 (UTC)

Here you go. Let me know if you need anything clarified. ~NerdyScienceDude 13:21, 19 October 2010 (UTC)

It has been transcluded. ~NerdyScienceDude 22:41, 19 October 2010 (UTC)

...and there is probably a school of thought that says that if your RFA needs to be semi-protected temporarily (as I have done) because of disruptive editing from a now-blocked IP, you've been doing something right with your time online... Good luck. Bencherlite^Talk 23:07, 19 October 2010 (UTC)

Those were my thoughts exactly. The Thing // Talk // Contribs 23:08, 19 October 2010 (UTC)

Reverting vandalism in my user space

If a user vandalizes my user page or user talk page, will you please revert it? Wayne Olajuwon chat 23:15, 19 October 2010 (UTC)

Certainly. The Thing // Talk // Contribs 01:13, 20 October 2010 (UTC)

Thanks! Wayne Olajuwon chat 22:31, 20 October 2010 (UTC)

Teabag 69

Why is this name offensive? (Asking here because you might not see my query at UAA)? Looie496 (talk) 00:49, 20 October 2010 (UTC)

It's an offensive username because it's a reference to the sexual act of teabagging. The Thing // Talk // Contribs 00:50, 20 October 2010 (UTC)

That explains it! Thanks. Looie496 (talk) 00:54, 20 October 2010 (UTC)

Don't forget 69.  IShadowed  ✰  03:51, 20 October 2010 (UTC)

It's f***ing sexy time ;) -FASTILY ^(TALK) 19:03, 21 October 2010 (UTC)

Barnstar

		The Defender of the Wiki Barnstar
		If only we could have more noble defenders, Obamafan70 (talk) 06:38, 21 October 2010 (UTC)

Thank you. The Thing // Talk // Contribs 12:49, 21 October 2010 (UTC)

Nomination of 2010 United States tomato shortage for deletion

A discussion has begun about whether the article 2010 United States tomato shortage, which you created or to which you contributed, should be deleted. While contributions are welcome, an article may be deleted if it is inconsistent with Wikipedia policies and guidelines for inclusion, explained in the deletion policy.

The article will be discussed at Wikipedia:Articles for deletion/2010 United States tomato shortage until a consensus is reached, and you are welcome to contribute to the discussion.

You may edit the article during the discussion, including to address concerns raised in the discussion. However, do not remove the article-for-deletion template from the top of the article. Smartse (talk) 11:49, 21 October 2010 (UTC)

Thanks for notifying me. Even though I have been watching the AFD, it seems that the people who PROD'ed it and sent it to AFD forgot to notify me... The Thing // Talk // Contribs 12:51, 21 October 2010 (UTC)

Oooops

Sorry about that... I had two windows open... one with your and one with Elen's RfA's. I thought I was editing Elen's. I removed my "support" and your response. If you want to restore, you are welcome to do so (as I removed your comment) but I figured removing both was probably easier.---Balloonman ^{NO! I'm Spartacus!} 21:15, 22 October 2010 (UTC)

That's alright. Cheers. The Thing // Talk // Contribs 15:04, 23 October 2010 (UTC)

WP:GLOO

Why don't you try to use GLOO? Wayne Olajuwon chat 22:30, 22 October 2010 (UTC)

I've tried it before, and just barely tried it again. It's too slow for me, Huggle is much faster at loading diffs, particularly with my configuration. The Thing // Talk // Contribs 15:04, 23 October 2010 (UTC)

Oh, okay. Wayne Olajuwon chat 15:06, 23 October 2010 (UTC)

Memo

Don't forget to drink your coffee before starting editing in the mornings. (Well, you asked to be reminded!) =) GwenChan 14:58, 23 October 2010 (UTC)

Heh, thanks. The Thing // Talk // Contribs 15:04, 23 October 2010 (UTC)

Resilience

		The Resilient Barnstar
		I really hand it to you for going through RfA and dealing with it. I couldn't stand it for more than 7 hours and it is a lot harder than it looks, especially all the blatantly stupid things people say, it's a bloodbath. But whatever happens, I hold high respect for you because in all honesty, there is no reason why you shouldn't have access to a button that says "block" and then type {{uw-vaublock}}. -Tommy! 03:45, 21 October 2010 (UTC)

Thank you for your support. The Thing // Talk // Contribs 12:49, 21 October 2010 (UTC)

Hey bud, hang in there. You never know, you might get lucky. -FASTILY ^(TALK) 18:51, 21 October 2010 (UTC)

This is definitely one of the more interesting RfAs. If I had an account, I would support your nomination. -129.78.32.23 (talk) 01:46, 22 October 2010 (UTC)

You can have an account in just a matter of seconds by registering. — SpikeToronto 04:14, 22 October 2010 (UTC)

Hang in there, it keeps going up.. and it's not a vote.. so, I'm cautiously optimistic Thing. :) Tommy! 03:24, 26 October 2010 (UTC)

Yeah but that'll look suspicious (SPA). Wouldn't want to undermine his RfA. -129.78.32.24 (talk) 05:05, 22 October 2010 (UTC)

Yes, what you say is correct. However, I did not mean to imply that you should create an account and then immediately chime into an RfA. New editors should really not participate in RfAs. I stayed out of them for my first year. I was only suggesting that getting an account, and acquiring the greater access and richer experience that having one provides, is a simple, anonymous matter. That’s all. Thanks! — SpikeToronto 05:12, 22 October 2010 (UTC)

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Read this Signpost in full · Single-page · Unsubscribe · EdwardsBot (talk) 02:17, 26 October 2010 (UTC)

Your user page

I just wanted to say that it looks awful and messy in Chrome, the text shadowing that is: see what I mean. But KUTGW otherwise. Apoyon (talk) 13:54, 26 October 2010 (UTC)

RfA (1)

Please don't withdraw yet; I've seen RfA's with similar support/oppose percentage to yours turn themselves around at the end. --Access Denied ^{[FATAL ERROR]} 23:29, 20 October 2010 (UTC)

Looks like your RFA isn't doing so well, I agree with the oppose votes, but I already changed my mind once. If it fails, I could tutor you and get you started on article work and other parts of Wikipedia policies such as WP:AN/I and WP:AFD. If you do that your next RFA would be an automatic support. Secret ^account 01:51, 21 October 2010 (UTC)

Interested? Secret ^account 18:21, 21 October 2010 (UTC)

I suppose I am. The Thing // Talk // Contribs 18:23, 21 October 2010 (UTC)

Yea that way you won't fail another RFA when it comes to be, this one is sinking, I think you should withdraw before it becomes more of a bloodbath. It's your best chance to pass an RFA in six months. I'll be glad to nominate you for RFA if I see improvements, I do have a great track record about 25 passed and 4 failed (one of whom passed a few months later). Secret ^account 18:29, 21 October 2010 (UTC)

Thing, would you like to help me with this? I personally agree with your philosophy re WP:NEIA, but obviously enough people disagree with us that building some content might help assuage their concerns for the next RfA go-round. Song stubs are pretty straightforward to create, the sources are really easy to find, and it doesn't really require English on an "artistic" level. If you knock out a couple of these a week between now and your next RfA, you should be able to convert some of those opposes. 28bytes (talk) 18:53, 21 October 2010 (UTC)

(Not that I'm suggesting withdrawing from this one; I agree with Access Denied. Just making the suggestion in case it doesn't go through this time.) 28bytes (talk) 18:55, 21 October 2010 (UTC)

Mmmm, and I'm happy to offer you a crash course in media files and copyright. By specializing in a field many users have little to no knowledge of, you can place yourself in a more esteemed position in the community. Let me know if you're interested. -FASTILY ^(TALK) 19:01, 21 October 2010 (UTC)

I could offer with article writing, sourcing, dispute resolution like WP:AN/I, and AFDs, which are my speciallties in the project. Secret ^account 20:52, 21 October 2010 (UTC)

Ok, let's get started. The Thing // Talk // Contribs 12:24, 27 October 2010 (UTC)

Hang in there buddy, it's always darkest before the dawn :)--White Shadows ^{Your guess is as good as mine} 21:17, 21 October 2010 (UTC)

TTTSNB, I think you should not withdraw. Sticking it out shows that you have perseverance and that you’re tough enough to deal with the combination of negative and constructive criticism.

Also, I would be more than willing to help you with editing and writing, if you’d like. You can find a stub whose topic area interests you and we can expand it to an article. I’m sure that other editors would also extend you this assistance. Good luck! — SpikeToronto 21:47, 21 October 2010 (UTC)

I am not planning on withdrawing this RfA. I plan to see it from start to finish... it's just another 5 days... I can easily accept any sort of harsh comments that come my way on there... I've endured far, far worse for over 2 years straight. The Thing // Talk // Contribs 22:12, 21 October 2010 (UTC)

I'm really sorry the #$%& has hit the fan here on this RFA of yours. We all just need to take a deep breath (myself included) and look at the facts here and then make a decision. I;m sorry that things are turning out that way for you. Good luck nonetheless. All the best,--White Shadows ^{Your guess is as good as mine} 10:45, 22 October 2010 (UTC)

My RfA is now half the size of WP:ANI, at just over 180,000 bytes, heh. The Thing // Talk // Contribs 20:24, 22 October 2010 (UTC)

I believe it's unfortunate that lack of content creation is a reason to oppose in an RFA. By the way, have you ever heard of Wikipedia:Admin coaching? May that be something for you to consider? HeyMid (contributions) 12:33, 27 October 2010 (UTC)

He was coached a long time ago by Juliancolton. It probably helped, but at the time it wasn't enough to get him a passing score. —Soap— 12:39, 27 October 2010 (UTC)

OK. But I believe that (sub-)page has since been deleted. Also, where are the links to h*s other RFAs? Can I get them? HeyMid (contributions) 12:41, 27 October 2010 (UTC)

See Wikipedia:Requests_for_adminship/The_Thing_That_Should_Not_Be_2#General_comments. The italicized Requests for adminship/Until It Sleeps is a redirect that doesn't seem to have ever been a live RfA. There was also Wikipedia:Requests for adminship/Vandalism destroyer, but he declined the nomination, so that one never was a live RfA either. (These two anomalies may be why some people have been claiming he's had six RfA's, when in reality there were four.) —Soap— 12:44, 27 October 2010 (UTC)

Hi

Hi Thing, I just gave took a look at your WP:RFA, and hope that your adminship passes. Just don't give up hope. Feinoha ^{Talk, My master} 22:12, 26 October 2010 (UTC)

Just another reason why i'm moving on from this place. That should have passed. Tommy! 00:02, 27 October 2010 (UTC)

No it shouldn't have. — Rlevse • Talk • 00:04, 27 October 2010 (UTC)

Rlevse couldn't be more right — although I personally wanted him to become an admin, there's no way that that was going to pass. — Waterfox ^~talk~ 00:15, 27 October 2010 (UTC)

Yea Thing, write 3 FAs, a GA 5 DYKs with a partridge and a pear tree, and then maybe the groupthink will subside. Tide Rolls RfA passed with flying colors, an editor with no more writing experience than you, and for you, people practically make up all this shit in your RfAs- for whatever reason-. One person who vehemently opposed you for "maturity reasons" tried various times, including an off-wiki incident, to instigate myself and other editors in your RfA. Like I said, one of the many reasons why I'm moving on from this site. That and the constant vandalism and stupid people (vandals) who actually have the nerve to attack people who protect this site. And you get treated poorly. I don't know why you put up with it. Best of luck to you. Tommy! 01:23, 27 October 2010 (UTC)

RFA (2)

I regret that your RFA was not successful. I'm sure if you work on the concerns, your next one will be successful. — Rlevse • Talk • 00:04, 27 October 2010 (UTC)

Have a cookie!

Waterfox has given you a cookie! Cookies promote WikiLove and hopefully this one has made your day better. You can spread the WikiLove by giving someone else a cookie, whether it be someone you have had disagreements with in the past or a good friend. {{subst:if||| {{{message}}} ||subst=subst:}} To spread the goodness of cookies, you can add {{subst:Cookie}} to someone's talk page with a friendly message, or eat this cookie on the giver's talk page with {{subst:munch}}!

Sorry your RfA wasn't successful. Have a cookie! — Waterfox ^~talk~ 00:18, 27 October 2010 (UTC)

Thing, whatever you decide to do, you'll have my support. If you are frustrated and feel like leaving Wikipedia, don't feel bad, because a lot of others in similar situations have done the same. If you want to stay but just cut back a little, that's good because you have other things in the world to worry about. And if you're still just as eager as ever to keep on contributing to Wikipedia, getting vandals blocked and pages deleted, we'll work with you to help you get it done in the best way possible. —Soap— 00:22, 27 October 2010 (UTC)

So close! Keep up the good work and I'm sure you'll be given the mop next time; a more deserving candidate I cannot think of! Regards, Lothar von Richthofen (talk) 00:27, 27 October 2010 (UTC)

Facepalm . It's a disappointment that your RfA failed. If you want, I can help you with writing articles, as I have some DYKs and GAs myself. Either way, those vandals will still have to face The Thing That Should Not Be. ~NerdyScienceDude 00:34, 27 October 2010 (UTC)

See the below section for my thoughts on this. Access Denied ^{[FATAL ERROR]} 00:37, 27 October 2010 (UTC)

Your RFA

Hello The Thing That Should Not Be, The Utahraptor has smiled at you! Smiles promote WikiLove and hopefully this one has made your day better. Spread the WikiLove by smiling at someone else, whether it be someone you have had disagreements with in the past or a good friend. Go on, smile! Cheers, and happy editing!
Smile at others by adding {{subst:Smile}} to their talk page with a friendly message.

Sorry your RfA failed. In my opinion, you should have gotten the tools. And by the way, I could use a bit of backup at Wikipedia talk:Requests for adminship, if you agree with my viewpoint. I'm getting torn apart out there. ;) The Utahraptor^Talk/_Contribs 01:21, 27 October 2010 (UTC)

Sorry to see you didn't get the tools. You've helped me out many a time by fighting vandals, and I'd never said 'thank you.' So thank you, and best wishes for the future. I was pulling for you. You're still an asset to the project, and don't forget that. MarmadukePercy (talk) 01:57, 27 October 2010 (UTC)

Same. Would you be thinking about adminship now then? Are you still determened to get the mop? Special Cases ^{LOOK, A TALK PAGE!!!!} 07:27, 27 October 2010 (UTC)

Add same. I know I initially opposed, but after giving it some genuine hard thought, I could see the positives that your hard work and determination bring. I can only begin to imagine how pissed off you must feel right now, but I hope you will consider running again. GwenChan 10:06, 27 October 2010 (UTC)

• You would make a good admin. Remember that there were over twice as many supporting you as opposing, so most of us think you should have got it. Only a few more supports would have been enough to push you over 70%, which would have put you into the "bureaucrat's discretion" area. In that case obviously I don't know how it would have been decided, but you would at least have had a chance. There was, of course, great prominence given to the "administrators must be people who put a lot of time into writing articles" line. This is, in my opinion, nonsense. Being an admin is no advantage at all in creating articles, but it is extremely useful in vandal fighting. However, some of the more intelligent "oppose" comments were more along the line of "administrators must be people who have at least some experience of writing articles", which is a bit better. I sincerely hope you will try again some time. However, before you do so look at the "oppose" arguments, think how you can work to address them, and work at it over the coming months. Whether you personally agree or disagree with the opinions expressed, the reality is that it is only by satisfying at least some of your critics that you will stand a chance. For example, write a few articles. It doesn't have to be a huge number, but enough to indicate that you do have some experience in the area, so that you have an answer to those who come up with the same objection again. Some of the other criticisms of you had, in my opinion, more validity than that one, and it is worth considering them carefully. One of the criticisms was that you were seen as ignoring the community's "consensus" as expressed in earlier RfAs. I have put quotes round the word consensus because in your last RfA you gained a majority of supports, so there was certainly not a consensus against you. However, there is some degree of validity in the criticism. Whatever you or I think of the reasons given for opposing, the fact is that as long as you do not address those reasons you will get a lot of opposition. I strongly urge you to read the opposes carefully, and try to take note of the main points, and work at addressing them. I am taking the trouble to write all this because I believe you have the potential to be a good admin some day, and hope you will do so. I am trying to encourage you to take the steps which will lead you in that direction. Finally, once again: remember that there were over twice as many editors supporting you as there were opposing you: there really are a lot of us who think you should be an admin some day. JamesBWatson (talk) 10:57, 27 October 2010 (UTC)

You probably need this, and certainly deserve it.

ϢereSpielChequers is offering you a Wiki Beer! Liquid refreshment promotes WikiHarmony and hopefully this one has made your day better. Spread the harmony by offering a beer to someone else, whether it be someone you have had disagreements with in the past or a good friend. Cheers, and Happy editing!
Best served refrigerated (not applicable in England). Temperature and Alcoholic strength varies according to age, religion and geographic location of recipient, US residents below the age of 21 are best advised to keep this beerstar until travelling in a country with less ageist drinking laws. NB This Beerstar is compatible with all known fake IDs

Sorry you didn't make it, if you do run again in a few months, feel free to ping me first. ϢereSpielChequers 13:06, 27 October 2010 (UTC)

Me too. JamesBWatson (talk) 13:21, 27 October 2010 (UTC)

I'll be sure to do that, thanks. The sock that should not be (talk) 16:38, 27 October 2010 (UTC)

Hopefully this will warm your day. :)

		Sunshine!
		Hello The Thing That Should Not Be! ~NerdyScienceDude has given you a bit of sunshine to brighten your day! Sunshine promotes WikiLove and hopefully it has made your day better. Spread the sunshine by adding {{subst:User:Meaghan/Sunshine}} to someone else's talk page, whether it be someone you have had disagreements with in the past or a good friend. In addition, you can spread the sunshine to anyone who visits your userpage and/or talk page by adding {{User:Meaghan/Sunshine icon}}. Happy editing! ~NerdyScienceDude 16:47, 27 October 2010 (UTC)

Feel free to ask me any questions about writing articles. Let me know if you do create more articles, that way I can nominate them for DYK if you want. ~NerdyScienceDude 16:47, 27 October 2010 (UTC)

Many barnstars!

		The Barnstar of Diligence
		You know why. Access Denied [FATAL ERROR] 00:25, 27 October 2010 (UTC)

		The Anti-Vandalism Barnstar
		For continuing your noble anti-vandalism efforts. Access Denied [FATAL ERROR] 00:25, 27 October 2010 (UTC)

		The Barnstar of Good Humor
		I love the diff collection on your page. Access Denied [FATAL ERROR] 00:25, 27 October 2010 (UTC)

		The Userpage Shield
		For defending Bsadowski1's userpage from /b/. Access Denied [FATAL ERROR] 00:25, 27 October 2010 (UTC)

Sorry that your RfA failed. I honestly thought that it would pass. Access Denied ^{[FATAL ERROR]} 00:25, 27 October 2010 (UTC)

1)See my talk page, 2) Do some research on how many RFAs below 70% have been successful, 3) see Waterfox's comment. — Rlevse • Talk • 00:38, 27 October 2010 (UTC)

It's also pretty unfair that you have to deal with Zsfgseg in the midst of all this. Access Denied ^{[FATAL ERROR]} 00:40, 27 October 2010 (UTC)

(edit conflict)Yeah, as far as I know, only 1 RfA, MoabDave's, was 67% when it passed, and that had certain circumstances which allowed it to pass. The Thing // Talk // Contribs 00:41, 27 October 2010 (UTC)

I’m a little confused. When I look at MoabDave’s RfA, I read a statement from the closing Bureaucrat that, on the positives, could just as easily have been applied to your RfA. On the negatives, the closing statement essentially dimissed the trust concerns that the opposes voiced, while your RfA had few trust issues. One might conclude from a comparison of these two RfAs that, when it is under 70%, the ’crat, in effect, casts the deciding vote. The ’crat in one RfA chose to “vote” to promote, while the other ’crat chose to “vote” not to promote. Perhaps it would be better if the bureaucrats acted like ArbCom and, as a panel, review RfAs below 80% and determine whether there is consensus on that ’crat panel to promote. Perhaps the only significant difference between your and Dave’s RfA was the closing individual, where one has a more stringent interpretation of WP:RFA, while other has a more lax interpretation. And by that, I mean that, since WP:RFA says that most RfAs below 70% fail, and that results between 70% and 80% are subject to bureaucratic discretion, the other candidate, having below 70%, lucked out. A panel review might eliminate the luck-of-the-’crat-draw element. — SpikeToronto 23:24, 27 October 2010 (UTC)

Good

Hi again! I see you've recently gotten back to some content creation. That's good news! Although I don't understand how content creation/editing counts in the admin role, this is at least a step forward. When I read through your most recent RFA I saw that some off-wiki issues contributed to some of the opposes you received.

Think this way: "OK, I'll do some vandal-fighting and WP:UAA for 4–6 hours, then I'll do some content creation for an hour or two." I think that the opposers want a confirmation for that you do have content experience.

It may take some time before you finally get the mop – but think this way: "It's better if I get it in 2 years than never getting it." But really, as to what you want to do and which way you want to go is your.

Happy vandal-fighting!

/HeyMid (contributions) 11:18, 29 October 2010 (UTC)

My support vote

Next time you stand for the RfA... Smile and take it easy till then :) Best always. Wifione _....... ^{Leave a message} 13:37, 30 October 2010 (UTC)

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Huggle question

To The Thing That Knows Eveything: I notice that this latest version of Huggle (0.9.11) seems to log one out quite quickly when it’s idle. Say for instance one is reviewing some other edits by a vandalizing IP, when one gets back to HG, one finds oneself logged out. So, is there a parameter in huggle.cs that can be changed to increase the time for automatically loging the Huggler out? Thanks! (Btw, I was glad to see that when HG was disabled on election night, you were still on, Huggling away with your custom version of the product!) — SpikeToronto 02:29, 4 November 2010 (UTC)

Um... to my knowledge, that's not supposed to happen, and there isn't a parameter for that as far as I know... I'm not sure what to say other than to avoid logging out anywhere else while Huggle is active. Logging out in one place logs you out everywhere else as well. Try checking "remember me for 30 days" when you log in using a normal browser as well. The Thing // Talk // Contribs 02:32, 4 November 2010 (UTC)

I think you’ve actually answered my question perfectly! I’ve starting using a different account for recent changes patrol so that all those hundreds of edits are not in my contribs with my regular content-oriented edits. When RCPing, I log into the RCP account on both Huggle and Wikipedia (via browser). But, sometimes, I log off the RCP account on browser and go to the normal account because I want the edit to be in the regular account’s contribs and/or I want that to be the account in the history of the page I am editing (like this entry right now!). So, if I understand you correctly, when I was logging off the RCP account on Wikipedia (i.e., in the browser), I was also logging off HG. But, when I logged back into the RCP account on Wikipedia (i.e., in the browser), it was not logging me back into HG. Man, you’re a technical genius! Thanks! — SpikeToronto 02:44, 4 November 2010 (UTC)

I learn from my experiences. :) The Thing // Talk // Contribs 02:47, 4 November 2010 (UTC)

Wikipedia:Requests for comment/User names

I have filed a request in hopes of clarifying the matter one way or the other. Whatever the result, I will accept it and move on. Jehochman ^Talk 15:43, 4 November 2010 (UTC)

Ok, thanks for notifying me. The Thing // Talk // Contribs 15:45, 4 November 2010 (UTC)

Your Use of the Deprecated <font> Tag Drives me Nuts

I know it's not just you, but I seem to notice people using font instead of span. The use of deprecated tags is one of my pet peeves. A version of your signature using span would be (you may want to expand font-family to include fallback fonts in the event that Segoe Print isn't installed on the machine):

The Thing // Talk // Contribs 23:26, 4 November 2010 (UTC)

Thanks, --nn123645 (talk) 23:26, 4 November 2010 (UTC)

Unfortunately that sig would be over the limit of 256 characters. I suspect that's the reason why he's using the "font" version. —Soap— 23:28, 4 November 2010 (UTC)

Ahh, nevermind then, on a side note I have no idea why MediaWiki doesn't automatically convert all uses of <font> to <span> in the parser (it actually outputs the font tag in the HTML). --nn123645 (talk) 23:37, 4 November 2010 (UTC)

Actually that signature, without the timestamp, is exactly 255 characters, 1 character shy of the limit, so it is possible. I shall test it now to see how it works. Seems I forgot to keep the closing </span> tag when I used the character counter... it's 262 characters with that. The Thing // Talk // Contribs 16:16, 5 November 2010 (UTC)

I've been meaning to change my signature anyways... The Thing ^T/_C 16:27, 5 November 2010 (UTC)

Username

Which username do you think is better: Until It Sleeps or The Thing That Should Not Be? WAYNEOLAJUWON 16:10, 5 November 2010 (UTC)

I like my current username best... besides, I wouldn't want to get a rename now anyways... the last time I did so with 95,000 edits, Wikipedia's servers lagged for 10 minutes, and 20,000 of my edits didn't cooperate with the rename and stayed in the contributions list of my old username... I had to get a developer to intervene and move those contributions to my new username, and it took a couple weeks to find one up to the task. If you're asking if I would want to change back, no I wouldn't. The Thing ^T/_C 16:30, 5 November 2010 (UTC)

Oh, okay. Why would anybody change it back anyway? WAYNEOLAJUWON 20:07, 5 November 2010 (UTC)

Huggle Question (2)

Is there a way to turn off that "will not revert because the target version is identical to the last revision" feature on huggle? It comes up with that when there is clear vandalism. Inka⁸⁸⁸ 00:47, 8 November 2010 (UTC)

That means someone else already reverted it while you were in the process of reverting. Usually this happens when DashBotAV or one of the ClueBots detects vandalism. Access Denied – talk to me 00:54, 8 November 2010 (UTC)

It does not show that it was reverted. Also, I sometimes wait a minute to see if someone else reverted it and still does not come up as reverted. Inka⁸⁸⁸ 02:13, 8 November 2010 (UTC)

That’s just an occasional flaw in Huggle. If you press and open the diff in a browser, you will see “Next edit,” which, if you click on it, will take you, usually, to where someone/something has reverted it. This idiosyncracy is being discussed here. — SpikeToronto 09:23, 8 November 2010 (UTC)

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Notice of request for deletion of editor The Thing That Should Not Be :)

The Thing That Should Not Be, the editor you are, has been nominated for deletion. We appreciate your contributions. However, an editor does not feel that you satisfy Wikipedia's criteria for inclusion and has explained why in the nomination space. Your opinions on yourself are welcome; please participate in the discussion by adding your comments at User:GlassCobra/Editor for deletion#The Thing That Should Not Be and please be sure to sign your comments with four tildes (~~~~). You are free to edit during the discussion but should not remove the nomination (unless you wish not to participate); such removal will not end the deletion discussion (actually it will). Thank you, and have a good sense of humor :).

Heh... The Thing ^T/_C 00:18, 10 November 2010 (UTC)

Seriously, you're ditching Huggle?

[3] That is one response to the RfA failure which I admit I did not expect. As I said above, I (and many others) will do whatever it takes to help, though I have to admit I'm not a good writer myself and will probably be best able to help by not making large edits to your articles as that would only make them (in the minds of those most eager to find faults) "not really yours". That, and I've never produced anything better than start-class myself. Can't really help finding sources either because I don't have easy access to a library or any other online resources that are not available to the general public. I could maybe help come up with ideas for things to write about if you can't find anything at Wikipedia:Requested articles. Unless you plan to focus on improving existing articles, rather than creating new ones. Maybe what I really should do is get on Huggle more often and try to fill up some of the gap left by your not being there. —Soap— 12:15, 27 October 2010 (UTC)

The Thing writing content? Wow, the vandals will have a field day! If you need a hand, I'll be glad to do what I can (I can copy edit, but that might be about it) but don't be surprised if your next RfA fails because you spent too much time writing content and not enough doing things where the admin bit might actually be useful! I understand some of the opposers—some content experience is valuable, but others are beyond me. It's clear that, if RfA ever was about finding the candidates who would be the most use to the project as administrators, it isn't any more! Anyway, hopefully you'll take some comfort from 123 supporters—actually more than I had! HJ Mitchell | Penny for your thoughts? 12:50, 27 October 2010 (UTC)

Oh, I'll still occasionally revert some vandalism that the bots in my IRC channel stalk, (which you're welcome to come and join at any time, it's listed on my userpage) and tag CSD's and all that other good stuff in addition to writing. I realize that there is too much of a good thing, and that doing virtually nothing but article writing for the next 3 or 4 months could possibly serve to hurt my chances as much as doing virtually everything but article writing. The Thing // Talk // Contribs 12:59, 27 October 2010 (UTC)

It will show that you're flexible, though, and that you are not nearly as incapable of writing as many seem to suspect, but have held off until now only because you have had other things keeping you busy. —Soap— 15:27, 27 October 2010 (UTC)

I am glad you are writing content, however I still have concerns over temperament and maturity. If you can avoid making any more comments like the one that forced myself and many others to oppose fixed, I will support an RFA for you six months from now. Thanks Vodello (talk) 16:01, 27 October 2010 (UTC)

By the way, you posted the wrong diff... that was the diff that I linked in the comment that you mentioned. The sock that should not be (talk) 18:25, 27 October 2010 (UTC)

Give it a rest vodello with all the maturity crap please. As far as writing, The Thing, I will admit, once you get started and get going, it is honestly easier than it appears. Tommy! 19:20, 27 October 2010 (UTC)

Thanks, I have fixed the link. I've said my piece. I'll support the RFA even if Tommy continues to drama monger throughout the entire process yet again as he did in RFA 5 and here. Good day. Vodello (talk) 19:50, 27 October 2010 (UTC)

"drama monger". Ach, if there ever was a case of the pot calling the kettle black... ~~ Lothar von Richthofen (talk) 01:14, 11 November 2010 (UTC)

I think you’re right to focus on content work for the next six to 12 months. That way, those who said they were only opposing you because of your dearth of content work cannot continue to oppose for that reason. Moreover, those who said that they do not consider lack of content work a bar to being an Admin, but were opposing you because you in particular chose to ignore previous RfAs in which your particular lack thereof was cited as an impediment to becoming an Admin, will also no longer have a reason to oppose. Of course, that does not mean they might not come up with other reasons. A sampling of the odder oppose rationales I have seen have included the following:

• Hasn’t received enough barnstars (as if they were voted on by committee rather than given out freely)
• Hasn’t been in enough editing conflicts with other editors (as if how often you get into trouble is a good indicator that you’d make a great Admin)
• Hasn’t been blocked (this was an extension of the above, and yes, a reason for oppose)
• Hasn’t done enough Admin work (as if the sysop bit were not a prerequisite for such work)

Those in this camp have forgotten that once upon a time, candidacy for Adminship was to determine whether someone is a good candidate to matriculate to Admin School; instead today they see an RfA as meant to determine whether or not you should graduate. In other words, this thinking puts the cart before the horse.

• Doesn’t participate in enough XfDs (even if this is an area of Admin work one has no interest in)
• Hasn’t made enough requests for page protection (notwithstanding that perhaps you simply do not edit pages in which edit wars occur)
• Hasn’t filed enough reports at WP:UAA (notwithstanding that you may not have come across names violative of WP:U)
• Hasn’t engaged enough at WP:ANI (as if avoiding that sh*tstorm weren’t a good thing!)
• Myriad others that give no credence to WP:NETPOSITIVE

So, if someone still wants to oppose you, no matter how much content work you do, s/he will still find a hook to hang his/her hat on. Sad, but true. — SpikeToronto 00:35, 28 October 2010 (UTC)

Note, due to this recent development, I feel compelled to postpone my "Huggle hiatus" until further notice. My custom version still works, and in my view, the program is being disabled on a ridiculous account of user error and negligence which should only affect the users involved (every user is responsible for their own edits, not the program), not every single global Huggle user. The Thing // Talk // Contribs 05:35, 3 November 2010 (UTC)

Of interest...

I think he wants you... Sven Manguard _Talk 23:40, 9 November 2010 (UTC)

Removed, talk page protected. Eagles 24/7 (C) 23:47, 9 November 2010 (UTC)

That is the most amusing unblock request ever... The Thing ^T/_C 00:06, 10 November 2010 (UTC)

We all really want to vandalize the administrator's noticeboard, but few of us would ever admit it. Reach Out to the Truth 03:00, 10 November 2010 (UTC)

Sigh, now he's using proxies to post abusive unblock requests. Access Denied – talk to me 00:42, 14 November 2010 (UTC)

The sock... RFCN closed.

Hello, The Thing That Should Not Be. The result of this discussion was to allow your username. The discussion has now been closed. If you would like to see what concerns were raised, you can find a link to the discussion in the archive. You do not need to change your username. Thank you. Courcelles 13:21, 12 November 2010 (UTC)

Thanks... by the way, you managed to double-sign your post, which I've fixed. The Thing ^T/_C 13:36, 12 November 2010 (UTC)

Whoops! My brain is not with me this morning. Courcelles 13:41, 12 November 2010 (UTC)

Someone wants to chat with you...

This is hilarious. Access Denied – talk to me 18:25, 14 November 2010 (UTC)

This edit

Will you add this to this section if you think it's very amusing? WAYNEOLAJUWON 19:44, 17 November 2010 (UTC)

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You deserve this!

		The Anti-Vandalism Barnstar
		Good job looking out for talk page vandalism especially Sophie's talk page because they're saying stuff about her age. You are certainly a vandalism destroyer even though you don't have that user name anymore. Vandalism can't wait until it sleeps, either. WAYNEOLAJUWON 02:09, 20 November 2010 (UTC)

Reply to vandlism message

Hello, The Thing That Should Not Be. You have new messages at Sophie's talk page.
You can remove this notice at any time by removing the {{Talkback}} or {{Tb}} template.

- Sophie ^(Talk) 01:52, 21 November 2010 (UTC)

Speedy deletions

Hi. In your last RfA, how did you count the amount of pages you've tagged for speedy deletion? Did you use a tool? If yes, then which? Or did you count manually´? Also, where can I find the tool which counts the amount of edits a specific user has made to a specific page? HeyMid (contributions) 10:49–10:51, 22 November 2010 (UTC)

I counted them manually... took a couple of hours to do it too. As for the counts, you could use Soxred's tool to do it, though it would only show the first 100 pages... [4] I don't know of any other tools at the moment, but I could do some research later and find out for you. The Thing ^T/_C 14:00, 22 November 2010 (UTC)

(talk page stalker) for the specific page, use this tool - Kingpin¹³ (talk) 14:34, 22 November 2010 (UTC)

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Username problem

Hi. I need your serious advice on something; as you can see from my signature, my username is Nicky Nouse. That's an obvious promotional username for Disney's Mickey Mouse, right? So, should I report myself to the administrators, or do you think my name is acceptable? I do not work for Disney, and am more of a Nickelodeon enthusiast. Thank you for any feedback.
　—Preceding signed comment by Nicky Nouse (talk) 04:42, 24 November 2010 (UTC)

(talk page stalker) no your username is not a problem. --Access Denied 04:44, 24 November 2010 (UTC)

Protection

The Thing, I know you have a message on your userpage saying that you prefer to have your pages left open for anons to edit, but now that you're editing less often, I wonder if you'd consider waiving that ideal? I've protected your page for 3 days on the rationale that it's very unlikely than an anon (or anyone else) would notice something important that needed to be fixed. If you do not want this please let me (or someone else) know. —Soap— 01:35, 28 November 2010 (UTC)

Retirement

Sorry to hear that you are retiring. I'm not sure we've ever had any direct interaction but your addition of the retired template caught my watchlist so I felt I should try to convince you not to. Mr R00t ^{Talk 'tribs} 02:13, 29 November 2010 (UTC)

Rest assured, it's an indefinite Wikibreak, not a retirement. The Thing ^T/_C 02:15, 29 November 2010 (UTC)

Indefinite =/= permanent, right? Access Denied 02:17, 29 November 2010 (UTC)

That would be correct... I'll be back when I get the time, and interest... right now I'm really bogged down with schoolwork and stuff, and other things have caught my interest. The Thing ^T/_C 02:18, 29 November 2010 (UTC)

Wikibreaks can do one the world of good, so go recharge your batteries before they burn out completely. Just don't be away too long. HJ Mitchell | Penny for your thoughts? 02:20, 29 November 2010 (UTC)

PLEASE don't go!

We need your vandal fighting!

Hello The Thing That Should Not Be, Access Denied has smiled at you! Smiles promote WikiLove and hopefully this one has made your day better. Spread the WikiLove by smiling at someone else, whether it be someone you have had disagreements with in the past or a good friend. Go on, smile! Cheers, and happy editing!
Smile at others by adding {{subst:Smile}} to their talk page with a friendly message.

Access Denied 02:14, 29 November 2010 (UTC)

NerdyScienceDude has given you a cookie! Cookies promote WikiLove and hopefully this one has made your day better. You can Spread the "WikiLove" by giving someone else a cookie, whether it be someone you have had disagreements with in the past or a good friend.

To spread the goodness of cookies, you can add {{subst:Cookie}} to someone's talk page with a friendly message, or eat this cookie on the giver's talk page with {{subst:munch}}!

Seconded. Please come back. ~NerdyScienceDude 02:16, 29 November 2010 (UTC)

Farewell

		The Anti-Vandalism Barnstar
		One last award for one of Wikipedia's finest vandal fighters. The UtahraptorTalk/Contribs 02:36, 29 November 2010 (UTC)

Thing, you are probably the most notorious vandal fighter on Wikipedia. You are definitely a valuable asset to the project. I hope you can find time in the future to return. Good luck with school, and I'll hopefully see you around. The Utahraptor^Talk/_Contribs 02:36, 29 November 2010 (UTC)

I wonder...

Is your retirement a result of your overdramatic RfA (that should have passed)? Access Denied 02:21, 29 November 2010 (UTC)

If I weren't getting bogged down in schoolwork, I would still be editing regardless of the RfA... It's not the sole reason, but I would be lying if I said it wasn't a factor. The Thing ^T/_C 02:29, 29 November 2010 (UTC)

Sorry to hear that (I supported your rfa) and good luck with school. See ya when you've got time to pop in for a quick vandal fight. Millahnna (talk) 02:35, 29 November 2010 (UTC)

Yeah, I may be able to pop in for a while on Christmas break... setting up networking between 3 servers (2 DNS and 1 file server) on 2 networks, with another server acting as a router is/was a time-consuming process. Taking tests during all of that is even worse. Doing the rest of the class in less than 2 weeks, now that's going to be a feat. The Thing ^T/_C 02:47, 29 November 2010 (UTC)

Ew, school. See ya soon. /ƒETCHCOMMS/ 22:10, 30 November 2010 (UTC)

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Retirement????????

This just lit up my watchlist. No. I might have to unretire now. access_denied (talk) 05:47, 13 December 2010 (UTC)

We lost one of our most dedicated vandal fighters, it won't be the same without you :( farewell mate. —Ancient Apparition • Champagne? • 8:23pm • 09:23, 13 December 2010 (UTC)

Agreed. There were many evenings when my watch list was lit up by vandalism reverts by this editor. Sorry to see him go. Best of luck to you. MarmadukePercy (talk) 09:48, 13 December 2010 (UTC)

Well, of all the long-term editors retiring from the project, you're the one I'll miss the most. In fact I already do because you've been near-retired for a month or so already. And so I don't really need another goodbye message here, other than to reaffirm that I think the project will be worse off without you, but off-wiki life is more important, and if it comes down to Wikipedia versus that, you're definitely making the right decision. Again, I'll miss you and I wish you the best. —Soap— 14:08, 13 December 2010 (UTC)

It's a shame a lot of these good editors are disappearing. It was good knowing you, and I wish you good luck in the future. ~NerdyScienceDude 14:12, 13 December 2010 (UTC)

It was a good time meeting you, and I wish you good luck in college. It's sad to see all these good editors including you leave. Wikipedia won't be the same without you. Sorry to see you leave. :( WAYNESLAM 20:56, 13 December 2010 (UTC)

Well mate, I was thinking (as I gazed thoughtfully at my watchlist), that I hadn't seen you around in a while, and arrived here to find that you'd left! Well, Wikipedia will surely miss you, you were a quality "Huggler". However, Wikipedia can become too much, whether it be you've got no time to spend on here anymore, the painful realisation that there's too much you've got yourself roped into doing on here, or to be honest, just some of the people here. Have a great time in the real world. Best wishes, Orphan Wiki 21:11, 13 December 2010 (UTC)

**chokes really loudly** You've got to be kidding me. There is some weird retirement thing going around on Wikipedia. Well, farewell, TTTSNB. Usb10 ^Connected? 02:16, 14 December 2010 (UTC)

• • • wow...that really put a dent in my day. Good luck in future endeavors TT ;) We'll miss you and hopefully pick up the baggage that you used to hold. No one can ever replace you here. Take pride in that my friend :)--White Shadows ^{Those Christmas lights} 02:29, 14 December 2010 (UTC)

Lol ... wait, it's not a joke? Retirement is fun, especially when you come back. If I hadn't already committed myself to so many things here I would be long gone ... but not permanently. I hope you're not gone forever either. /ƒETCHCOMMS/ 02:37, 15 December 2010 (UTC)

I don't know whether the {{retired}} and/or {{semi-retired}} templates are always used seriously. Fastily claimed to have retired on September 14, 2010 (resigned all his permissions, including the administrator flag). 9 days later, he was back at editing. Note that "retired" or "semi-retired" doesn't necessarily mean that's the case; for examle, retired doesn't have to mean that the user is no longer editing from h*s main account. It may mean, however, that the user is editing way less than before. HeyMid (contribs) 11:36, 15 December 2010 (UTC)

Well I hope Heymid is right, and you do come back. You will be sorely missed. Acather96 (talk) 06:43, 21 December 2010 (UTC)

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What?!

If anyone ever sets the Vandalism Information template to a 5 ever again, they are a liar. You were probably one of the few who kept things in check with that much effort. mechamind90 21:20, 18 December 2010 (UTC)

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Happy Holidays - hope to see you return someday

Happy Holidays!

Dear The Thing That Should Not Be, Best wishes to you and your family this holiday season, whether you are celebrating Christmas or a different holiday. It's a special time of the year for almost everyone, and there's always a reason to spread the holiday spirit! ;) Love, --Meaghan [talk] ≈ 14:51, 22 December 2010 (UTC)

Utah Meetup 2011

Hello, The Thing That Should Not Be. You have new messages at Wikipedia:Meetup/Utah.
Message added 16:45, 22 December 2010 (UTC). You can remove this notice at any time by removing the {{Talkback}} or {{Tb}} template.

Merry Christmas

The Utahraptor^Talk/_Contribs has given you a Christmas tree! Christmas trees promote WikiLove and are a great way to spread holiday cheer. Merry Christmas!

Spread the WikiLove by adding {{subst:User:The Utahraptor/Christmas tree}} to any editor's talk page with a friendly message.

Glad to see that you're at least slightly active. The Utahraptor^Talk/_Contribs 23:58, 24 December 2010 (UTC)

• Sorry to see you have retired. I'm limping along at about 30-60 minutes a day myself, so I understand. Working on my writing projects, and have been enjoying it. Thanks for the Christmas Greeting on my page, and I hope to see you back one of these days. Best wishes for the holidays and the coming year, Jusdafax 01:16, 25 December 2010 (UTC)

Merry Christmas!

May your family have
a joyous holiday season
and a new year blessed
with hope and happiness.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

• The Ceremonies for Christmas
  Day (Robert Herrick)
  
  Kindle the Christmas brand, and then
     Till sunset let it burn;
  Which quench'd, then lay it up again
     Till Christmas next return.
  
  Part must be kept wherewith to teend
     The Christmas log next year,
  And where 'tis safely kept, the fiend
     Can do no mischief there.

  

  ---

  If you don't celebrate Christmas ...

  Happy (belated) Hanukkah! Happy Eid al-Adha! Happy Kwanzaa! And of course, Happy Festivus!

  May this holiday season bring you the music of laughter, the warmth of friendship, and the steadying hand of love. ☃

/ƒETCHCOMMS/ 02:04, 25 December 2010 (UTC)

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