The Journal of the Traveling Squid

Fellowship, Goodwill and Making Connections Worldwide with Other Squidoo Lensmasters! The Journal of the Traveling Squid is a goodwill project connecting Squidoo lensmasters, particularly Giant Squids of yesterday, today, and tomorrow worldwide. The inspiration for the journey of the traveling squid really originated in the Summer of 2008. At that time, I contemplated how to launch this project of sisterhood and brotherhood for charity; to take my Giant Squid t-shirt, sign it and send it on to the next Squidoo lensmaster.

The Traveling Squid International Edition T-shirt photographed by JaguarJulie

This is the original, founding lens of The Journal of the Traveling Squid -- which tracked the traveling squid worldwide journey internationally and in the United States. The journey celebrated its anniversary on March 21, 2014. That was coincidentally my 8-year anniversary on Squidoo. The Traveling Squid kicked off its worldwide journey in Jacksonville, Florida and then flew on to Gordon Hamilton in the United Kingdom.

Volume II, the U.S.A. edition was traveling last in California. Volume I left the U.K. after enjoying 6 full months there; stopping off in Ireland and then on to Australia! Volume III, the second U.S.A. edition headed out to Merritt Island, Florida and is looking to travel in the state before moving on.

Whew! The international edition arrived home in Jacksonville, Florida on August 18, 2010. On July 15, 2010, we informed Flynn the Cat in New Zealand that the international edition was being called home to the United States, home base in Jacksonville, Florida, for a rest period. The international traveling squid has had a lot of fun traveling internationally -- thank you everyone for participating so boldly! Oh, the USA traveling squid also arrived back home in Jacksonville, Florida a short while after the international edition. Thanks folks for contributing to such a marvelous journey. There is a possibility that we will resume its travels some time in the future!

March 21, 2014, Jacksonville, FL: Relaunch ... We launched the next edition of the traveling squid in the United States in Florida. And, we now have a new lens, The Journal of the Traveling Squid USA. If you are in the United States and want to participate, lensmasters in the U.S.A. sign up here.

Look At THAT Squidoo Giant Squid T-Shirt - The International Edition! OMG, is this not a cool t-shirt?

It is our objective to auction off The Journal of the Traveling Squid — signed international edition of the Squidoo Giant Squid t-shirt! This auction is to benefit a Squidoo charity. Once we have determined where the auction will be held, we will let you know. The winning bidder will have the distinct honor of determining WHICH charity will benefit from the proceeds.

WOW! Look at this shirt! Imagine the priceless miles, the priceless experiences, the sheer amount of DNA the shirt has collected in its worldly travels. I tell you, it boggles the mind! Yes it does.

What is The Journal of the Traveling Squid? There is a Journal and a Giant Squid T-Shirt ...

The Journal of the Traveling Squid project consists of the Journal and a Giant Squid T-shirt. As each Squidoo lensmaster receives the forwarded package containing the journal and shirt, they will make their contribution to the journal with a journal entry. And, they will also sign the shirt with their lensmaster name, location and date.

Each participating lensmaster is asked to make a personal journal entry of their choosing. What does Squidoo mean to you? What are you passionate about? What matters to you? Feel free to add a drawing or maybe some poetry. After all, this is your journal entry.

Read on for further information about participants’ participation in this project — 7 things you should know — for participants.

Purple Star Journey

BTW, wonderful news for The Journal of the Traveling Squid -- on June 25, 2009 this lens earned the coveted purple star for quality content. The traveling squid is overjoyed! Then, Gordon Hamilton and The Five Dollar Vacation earned a purple star! Woo Hoo! Holy Moly Batman, KimGiancaterino earned a purple star for The Journal of the Traveling Squid Hollywood and KathyMcGraw earned a purple star for The Journal of the Traveling Squid Palm Springs.

The Journal and the Giant Squid T-Shirt

How do you feel about The Journal of the Traveling Squid?
Can such a pay it forward, goodwill / charity project work? Do you believe the traveling squid will make it around the world? A few lensmasters weighed in and this is what they had to say!

7 things you should know when participating
If you participate in this worldwide project; when you receive the package!

* Please sign the shirt with your lensmaster name, date and location [city, state, country].

* Add your journal entry: What does Squidoo mean to you? What are you passionate about? Feel free to write a page entry about something that matters to you. Add a drawing or maybe some poetry.

* Photographs please: As shown below, take a picture of your journal entry. Also, we are asking participants to have a photograph taken of themselves holding the shirt and journal next to an interesting landmark close to their location. If there is no interesting landmark, an outdoor picture will work! Pictures should be emailed to JaguarJulie at the email included in the journal. You may also want to upload these to your Flickr acount.

* Visit The Journal of the Traveling Squid lens and leave a comment here for participants in the International Edition and likewise leave a comment here if you are a participant in the U.S.A. with date the package arrived, your location and provide your favorite charity!

* Most important: package up the journal and signed t-shirt and mail/post it on to the next lensmaster. Each participating lensmaster may determine the next lensmaster to receive the package with the goal of covering all interested lensmasters in a location [city, state, country] before moving on to a new state or country. Check this lens for interested lensmasters!

* A donation to your favorite charity is encouraged at the time you receive your package. This part is optional and up to you!

* Please keep me [JaguarJulie] in the loop when you receive your package. You can use the contact me on my lensmaster profile.

The goal of The Journal of the Traveling Squid
The goal of this project is to connect lensmasters worldwide, hoping to travel far and wide — to all continents, and to raise money for charity. Inspired by The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants, this journey is starting with an idea — with a journal and a shirt.

The Very First Logo Graphic for This Project
Designed by lensmaster Janusz Biela

This cool logo was designed by fellow lensmaster Janusz Biela. It was his creation to feature a Traveling Squid wearing the Giant Squid t-shirt, standing atop Mt. Everest holding the Journal! Pretty clever don’t you think. Janusz offers his designing skills free to fellow Squidoo lensmasters — that is mighty remarkable, don’t you think. Thank you Janusz!

Have some ideas?

Stazjia Jun 05, 2013 @ 4:20 pm - I remember the Travelling Squid so well and followed its progress. I can just about see a bit of my name on the left shoulder, hidden a bit by the fold. I even remember where on the T-shirt I signed it though it was 4 years ago. It was a marvellous, magic idea which demonstrated the Squidoo spirit of the time.

The Journal of the Traveling Squid P1 and P2

Make your mark by signing the Journal and the Giant Squid t-shirt

International Edition of The Journal of the Traveling Squid
It flew to the U.K. in March 2009 and has returned to Jacksonville, Florida for a rest period!

Welcome to the International Edition of The Journal of the Traveling Squid! If you are a Squidoo lensmaster who is or will be participating in the Traveling Squid project, and live outside the United States, this is where YOU will be found. This page is highlighting the journal entries and landmark pictures of participating Squidoo lensmasters internationally. We started off the International Edition in March 2009, and here we are, one years later and still going strong!

The journal started off in Jacksonville, Florida and was dispatched to the United Kingdom. Do you know, the traveling squid spent 6 months in the U.K.???? Oh my goodness, I say! From the U.K., the traveling squid HIT Ireland and then flew like crazy to Australia. Said traveling squid spent a good bit of time there, down under, before gearing up to hit New Zealand.

July 15, 2010: We have informed Flynn the Cat in New Zealand that the international edition of the traveling squid is being called home to the United States, home base in Jacksonville, Florida, for a rest period. The international traveling squid has had a lot of fun traveling internationally — thank you everyone. Oh, for the time being, we will continue on with the USA traveling squid. Thanks folks!

The Journal of the Traveling Squid is a goodwill project connecting Squidoo lensmasters, particularly Giant Squids of yesterday, today, and tomorrow worldwide.

Volume I -- International Edition: U.K., Ireland, Australia, New Zealand and on!

The Journey in the U.K.
Continuing throughout the U.K. connecting so many lensmasters and giant squids. Gordon Hamilton has ‘made his mark’ on the Volume I U.K. journal and t-shirt in March 2009. Some six months later, the journal had visited 17 lensmasters in the U.K.! That’s pretty remarkable.

Once all willing lensmasters located in the U.K. have participated in the journey, the journal and t-shirt will be ready to make its way out of the U.K. into Ireland and then into Europe for an Eastern journey around the world!

Oh, did you read that we started a second volume of the traveling squid on Seth Godin’s birthday??? July 10, 2009, the journal departed Jacksonville, FL headed to our very own Gil. Now it is September, and Volume II is underway in the U.S.A.

Kick-Off -- Volume I International Edition
Squidoo Lensmaster Participants

1. JaguarJulie -- Jacksonville, FL USA
2. Gordon Hamilton -- U.K.
3. AJ2008 -- U.K.
4. Inkserotica -- U.K.
5. Debnet and Poddys -- U.K.
6. The_Book_Garden -- U.K.
7. NanLT -- U.K.
8. Kate-Phizackerley -- U.K.
9. Stazjia -- U.K.
10. thefluffanutta -- U.K.
11. oneskms -- U.K.
12. Rob3 -- U.K.
13. MrLewisSmile -- U.K.
14. AndyPo -- U.K.
15. Wizard-Morton -- U.K.
16. sherridan -- U.K.
17. Auntiekatkat -- U.K.
18. tirial -- U.K.
19. spook -- Ireland
20. susannaduffy -- Australia
21. Charlyjl -- Australia
22. RhiannonL -- Australia
23. skiesgreen -- Australia
24. N376 -- Australia
25. RonPass -- Australia
26. seegreen -- Australia
27. Flynn_the_Cat -- New Zealand
28. Bria-Silivren -- New Zealand

Volume II - U.S.A. Edition
Originating in Jacksonville, Florida with JaguarJulie

Hello to my fellow lensmasters, Squidoo you all, who reside in the United States of America! Woo-Hoo you all. I am so glad to have connected with each and every one of you to celebrate the traveling squid in America. It was truly fabulous to actually have the important folk of Squidoo — let’s see, Gil Hildebrand, Kimberly Dawn Wells, Corey Brown, Seth Godin, Megan Casey … did I miss any of the HQ gang? How awesome it truly was to have these fine Squidoo people participate in The Journal of the Traveling Squid? Yes indeed. And, it has been a true honor to be involved with Squidoo, speaking for myself.

Thank you hugely to the fine U.S.A. lensmasters who lent their time and talents to the traveling squid. Hugs you all.

In the U.S.A. -- Volume II
Squidoo Lensmaster Participants

1. giltotherescue -- Boulder, CO
2. SquidooKimberly -- Medford, WI
3. Seth Godin -- N.Y.
4. Corey Brown -- VA
5. Susan52 -- AR
6. KimGiancaterino -- Los Angeles, CA
7. KathyMcGraw -- Palm Springs, CA
8. badmsm -- Modesto, CA
9. Squidster -- Riverside, CA
10. Frankster -- Fort Bragg, CA
11. Megan Casey -- San Jose, CA
12. boredofeducation -- Fullerton, CA
13. GreekGeek -- Irvine, CA
14. Heather426 -- Canyon Country, CA
15. Paperfacets -- La Verne, CA
16. _Joan_ -- Someplace in CA

Lensmaster Spotlight

GILTOTHERESCUE 8/10/2009 – Boulder, CO and New Orleans, LA

Wawaweewa! I’m delighted to be the second Squid to sign the US journal. For the collection, I’ve taken two photos – one at work and another at play.

In the photo at my desk I am hacking away, most likely on a lensrank bug or our new modules as pages project (hope you like it).

In the other photo I took the journal to my home town: the European-inspired, laissez-faire city of New Orleans. After walking around the French Quarter all day, I made a pit stop to take this photo on the corner of the famous (or is it infamous?) Bourbon St. before making my was to Port of Call, home of the best beef and portabello burgers in town.

Before I go I want to say thanks to all you fantabulous lensmasters for using Squidoo. We’ve created something special here, and I’m thrilled to work with such a talented, eclectic group of writers and marketers. Keep on rockin. ~ Gil aka giltotherescue

Squidoo Kimberly / Kimberly Dawn Wells August 24, 2009 – Medford, WI

Hi Lensmasters!

When I started doing web design in 1997 I never dreamed a service like Squidoo would become available and make the process so simple; nor did I ever guess I’d one day be part of the team running it!

In my photo I’m multitasking – kicking back in my office between a long day of coding and writing and preparing to be on ambulance call for the night.

The potential of Squidoo has only begun to be tapped. Every day lensmasters surprise us with new ways to collect, share, and archive information through their creative use of lenses. Keep up the great work, and keep working hard on what you are passionate about. ~ K. D. Wells

Seth Godin Wednesday September 2, 2009 New York, New York

SQUID ALERT!

That’s the little Seth action figure wearing his too big t-shirt.

Keep Creating

Keep Leading

Keep making a difference

~ Seth Godin

Corey Brown Thursday September 10, 2009 Winchester, Virginia

The traveling squid has made its way to historic old town Winchester, Virginia, in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley.

I’m sharing two pictures … the first is one of me in front of The Bright Center, where we have a coworking location. The second is me hard at work, reading an email from Blake on something Squidoo-related and coming soon.

Thanks to all the Squids for all you do. You’ve made this platform better than we could have imagined. ~ Corey Brown

Donations? Yessirreee Bob! We are talking about charity and donations, part of the foundation celebrating the worldwide journey of The Journal of the Traveling Squid! Each step of the worldwide journey was slated to be marked by charitable donations from participating lensmasters.

What is your pet charity? Do you actually work with a charity? Me? Well, yes I do! My pet charity is First Coast No More Homeless Pets often known as FCNMHP. Funny when I spell that out, I have to repeat the words to get it right. My journey with FCNMHP started in October 2003 and I’m still going strong with this fine charity even today … as we speak.

The mission of First Coast No More Homeless Pets (FCNMHP) is to eliminate the killing of dogs and cats in our community through free and low-cost spay and neuter programs.

So, let’s pony up and do our part in the charitable donations department. It will feel good — go ahead; try it; you’ll like it. Charity begins at home! Your home.

Thanks Squidoo for the Memories!!

giltotherescue Mar 22, 2010 @ 11:52 am - I love browsing this lens from time to time to see where the traveling squid has gone next. Reading about so many passionate lensmasters all over the world is inspiring.

THANK YOU * THANK YOU * THANK YOU!!!

History: The Journal of the Traveling Squid was originally created on March 21, 2009. On June 25, 2009 this lens earned the Purple Star Award for quality content. Highest lensrank ever achieved: #14 overall. This was a top lens with 65 days on the Top 100 list. Lens #412 in the quest for Giant Squid 500 Club.

Love Bugs in My Sunflower Garden

I am not sure what the attraction happens to be with my sunflower garden, but the love bugs have been doing their thing over and over again. I am seeing those love bugs first thing in the morning, then again at noon, and again in the evening.

THE PROOF OF LOVE BUGS

Let me put together a little photo proof, a photo collage of love bugs on my sunflower leaves! See if you can pick a favorite.

Aren't those two love bugs something? Now, I don't believe it is the same pair on all those leaves since I took some of these pictures at different days and different times ... but a few of them look pretty similar.

I particularly got a kick out of the two love bugs in the last photo, #9. The one love bug was fluttering its wings like crazy to hold onto the edge of that sunflower leaf whilst the attached love bug hung on for dear life. They obviously had made a tight connection and didn't want to let go! Not only are they gymnastic insects, but their "you-know-what-making" is quite impressive ... rather like those gymnasts who twirl by their hair! I think so!

LOVE BUGS ON SQUIDOO

Hey there! Perhaps you found my previously Squidoo lens on love bugs? I originally created that Squidoo lens on January 18, 2008. The highest lensrank it ever achieved was #3,400 overall which put it in the upper second tier. It was lens #252 in my quest for Giant Squid 300 Club. Here is a screen capture from wayback:

Love Bugs: Love 'em or Hate 'em by JaguarJulie
Photo Credit: Mr. Love Bug by Brad Fitzpatrick

Love bugs can be a nuisance particularly because of their highly acidic body chemistry. You know, when you are driving during the love bug season, they will smash all over the front of your car. Not just the windshield, but the front bumper. If you don't clean the bumper and grill, you will find that the acidity will eat away at the finish. The love bugs acidity pits and etches automotive paint and chrome. It is not a pretty sight.

I remember back many many years ago when I lived in Atlanta in a Post Property townhome. One of my neighbors had a Mazda Miata. The whole front of the convertible was BLACK ... I mean layers and layers of black. That was the first time I really understood about the IMPACT of love bugs and what they can do to your car.

ANOTHER LOOK AT TWO LOVE BUGS

As I've walked through the four rows of my sunflower garden in the mornings, some of the love bugs have affixed themselves to my clothing and then showed up later in other places. I think these two were a tag-a-long.

Two Love Bugs Making a Connection on a Bench by JaguarJulie
Photo Taken: May 7, 2014

LOVE BUGS WITH LOW ACIDITY

Do you love Herbie the Love Bug as much as I do? Yeah, I know I'm getting a bit old for Herbie ... but life is a cycle. You are born and can be found in diapers ... then as you get older and close to being on your way out, you can be found in diapers. Not sure what that has to do with Herbie, but what's old is new again or something like that.

I just wanted to take a moment to celebrate those cool love bug items I found at Amazon as it tied rather nicely into my story of love bugs. Good CLEAN fun, you know? And, I'm not being overly promotional or too commercial. You think?

What the heck old crow or a blackbird

What the heck old crow or a blackbird? Today, I was looking up on Wikipedia to check out that wonderful reference for a blackbird and I ended up being a little bit MORE curious than I originally thought!  You see, when you check that reference, you will find a BUNCH more links to other blackbirds!

Next, I looked up the Wikipedia reference for crow as I was thinking that might help to answer my question.  Oh my word!  Have you ever checked out just how many species of crows there are?  There surely are a lot! 

I read there in that Wikipedia reference that "crows have also been known to imitate the human voice, just like parrots. Crows that have been trained to 'speak' are considered valuable in parts of East Asia, as crows are a sign of luck."  Oh, too bad I don't live in East Asia, I thought!

Oh, and reading further on, did YOU know that "in the UK, the crow is considered a pest when in a large community and under certain conditions can be shot under a number of general licences issued by DEFRA."  Oh me, oh my I say!  And, did you know that "a group of crows is called a 'murder'."  Well fancy that.

You see, we had decided to take an early morning ride on hubby's motor scooter ... and that early morning ride morphed into a full-blown motorcycle ride on a day that definitely hit 100 degrees!  He had to stop twice to fill up his gas tank, so that tells ya that we rode a LOT!  I'm not going to tell you about our ride just yet because I am seriously thinking about maybe doing a Squidoo lens or two ... and don't want to let the cat er blackbird or old crow out of the bag just yet.  You know what I'm saying?  Don't want to give away MY topics just yet.

So, at that first gas station we stopped at, hubby was inside a wee bit too long.  I didn't get a chance to share my laughter with him as it played out.  You see, up in the tree was this old crow making lots of noise.  The next thing, that crow flies out of the tree with two mockingbirds zooming into his old butt!  Golly gee those mockingbirds could sure accelerate, I thought!  Next thing you know, there are two old crows up on the power line.  And, now there are some 5-6 mockingbirds making short order of them crows.  I tell you, it was the most hilarious thing I had seen thus far that day!  One of the mockingbirds had been standing guard before all the ruckus took place.  I think the way it was looking, I could understand a "murder of crows!"  Get it???

Well, I might be having a difficult time distinguishing an old crow or two from a blackbird, but I do know an old buzzard when I see one! Say hello to an old turkey vulture! Hello YOU old buzzard YOU!

Double Take on a Google Ad on Squidoo Lens

It was a double-take this morning when I saw that google ad about how to cure yellow teeth as seen on Rachael Ray! I was editing and lensrolling the lens, Jaguar Julie Lensography when I saw the ad, "I Cured My Yellow Teeth!"

Take a look at the picture above! Wouldn't you too do a double-take on that google ad?

It made me think about the topicability of those google ads on Squidoo lenses. I've heard plenty of lensmasters commenting about the wrong type of ads appearing on their lenses; how they don't seem to relate or be topical. Well, I'm happy to say that this fine morning, I found this particular google ad to be spot on!

My photography in Google image searches

I have been convinced to take PHOTOGRAPHY lessons because of Google! Thank you Google! I get the MESSAGE. I simply must take photography lessons and then take more of my own pictures to display on my Squidoo lenses. I did yet another Google image search; this time for 'spicy potato salad' and found 3 of my images on the first page of the image results -- #1 and #3 positioning. In the web search, my Spicy Potato Salad page was #4 -- yeah! Trying harder to be #1.

To know me is to know that I really, really prefer to use my own graphic images and photography WHENEVER possible to display on my lenses. If nothing at all, it would be a goal to revamp all of my lenses with ONLY my graphics and photography -- that is a mighty tall order. I strive to be unique in my creations, having covered a wide range AND eclectic array of topics.

Some of my better pictures have been for my food lenses ... particularly whenever I can use that very cool, clear acrylic serving dish. I've used it for my Eight Layer Salad -- A Delicious Recipe page and also for my Spicy Potato Salad -- A Delicious Recipe page.

So, thank you Google for being so cool -- and for making my day!

Google image search for 8 layer salad

Isn't it great to have a little Google love? Checking out the Google image search for 8 layer salad! Well, the feeling is pretty mutual; if Google would have me, I would work for them in a HEARTBEAT! It's easy to entertain such a thought especially when you have a passion for such a company.

Anywho, of late, I have been blogging about how simply amazing Google image search is in indexing relevant photos so that I find WHAT I want to find. Hey, even if it might be my own images. Today, I did a Google image search on 8 layer salad and voila -- on the first page of the results, I found 3 of my salad pictures.

To top of those cool image search results, my food article, Eight Layer Salad - A Delicious Recipe actually was listed on the first page for a web search, the #5 result. Not bad!

Google Image Search is on a Tear

I'm taking a break this afternoon as I was curious if I would find my shoulder surgery pictures in a Google Image Search. You see, I had already spotted my meniscus tear and Morton's Neuroma pictures on page 1 of Google image searches -- be sure to see those blog posts!

Well, sure enough! I searched slap tear and there was my bruised and marked up left shoulder and arm. For those of you who have experienced a SLAP tear, you undoubtedly know how painful these can be. My experience was probably not the norm as I had one manipulation under anesthesia to move my shoulder as it was thought I had frozen shoulder syndrome. After that episode, I was scheduled two weeks out for the official Slap repair surgery.

My first Slap repair surgery lasted several hours -- it was an outpatient surgery. When the doctor spoke with me, he explained that it was a lot worse than expected. I also had a torn labrum and detached bicep -- which was reattached with 3 titanium anchors inserted into my shoulder bone. Recovery meant 6 weeks in an arm brace. A few years later, I opted for another Slap surgery to remove scar tissue and debride the surgical site. After being immobilized for 6 weeks, I developed too much scar tissue. In between the two surgeries, I experienced such an incredible amount of pain that I had to undergo 2 full courses of pain management therapy which was something else entirely!!!

Well, if you want to know more about this type of injury, be sure to check out my article, SLAP Tear -- What is it? Oh, isn't Google simply amazing? Google image search so impressed me today that I felt they were on a tear!!!

Google Search is a Foot Above

Sshh, don't tell the 'boss' that I'm blogging while I'm supposed to be working on the company's monthly website update. That will get done, but first-things-first!

In a previous blog post I introduced you to my celebrity knee that made its debut on Google Search page 1 of regular searches as well as image searches. Well, I was equally flattered this afternoon to spot another ahem, "body part" in an equally prestigious location on Google Image Searches -- page 1. "Wow," said a coworker, "I wonder what other body parts you'll spot on Google?" Well, not to worry as I've not photographed any other "body parts" than G-rated ones. My work is viewable by all audiences -- I like to keep a little to the imagination you know.

So, this afternoon I was noticing that I'm getting lots of hits for another health-related lens, Morton's Neuroma. I had surgery to excise a rather large Morton's Neuroma just over a year ago. My lens documents my progress directly after surgery and to this day. There are a number of pictures of my famous celebrity foot -- looking pretty and NOT so pretty. Prior to this surgery, I was no longer able to wear high heels. Today, thanks to this surgery, I can wear all the shoes in my closet.

P.S. Yes, indeed Google search is a foot above all the others -- as demonstrated here in this blog post where I can actually find my own foot on Google!

Google Image Search on Knees

It's been well over 6 months since I had knee surgery to repair my medial meniscus tear. No, I'm not a jock -- but have experienced a series of tendon or ligament injuries that would lead one to believe that I AM a jock! When I tore my meniscus, I suffered with knee pain for probably a month or two before I sought medical attention. I had the obligatory MRI and physical therapy, but did not have improvement from the pain. My orthopedic surgeon performed an arthroscopic procedure to clean up or debride the tear. I'm not sure if he needed to do any stitching; however, I do know that he saw an old tear along with a new tear.

My mother and I have batted around the hypothesis that tendon or ligament injuries can be seen in families; i.e., based on hereditary. After all, she has experienced similar tendon tears to justify this supposition. While my medial meniscus tear was treated conservatively, her similar tear resulted in her meniscus being removed completely. Unfortunately, she is not doing as well since her surgery! That's fodder for another blog post.

So, getting back to today and to WHY this blog post. I was noticing that my Squidoo lens was getting lots of hits and thought that was interesting. I was wondering WHY would people be interested in a "meniscus tear" so I Googled it. What a surprise, "Google Search is pretty knee-t !!!" Pardon the spelling error, but on the first page of the Google search for "meniscus tear," I found MY knee! Yes, you heard me right -- MY knee. Now, if I knew that Google was going to spotlight my knee in all its glory, I would have put on a little makeup.

Well, you can check the search out for yourself and then take a look at the images search for meniscus tear. And, if you NEED to know more about this topic, why not read my article, Meniscus Tear -- Not just a jock's injury! I've included a screenshot of the first page of a Google Search for "meniscus tear" to give you a peak at my knee in all its glory. Enjoy!

Expanding Your Lens Publishing Power

Expanding Your Lens Publishing Power :: A Squidoo How-To From a Mega Giant Squid! Hot off the presses of Squidu Review ...

Hello Lensmasters!The question is often asked on the forum, “How long is too long for a lens?” The answer varies, depending on the topic of the lens, the target audience, the types of modules, etc. However, if you are thinking about breaking your lens into smaller parts, or creating new ones to showcase new information, additional lenses can boost your linking power and give you new opportunities to get found online.

This week, Giant Squid Jaguar Julie teaches us how to expand your lens repertoire by creating new lenses from old ones.

***

Making New Lenses Out of Old Lenses

As Squidoo fanatics, many of us have loooooong lenses that we developed on our favorite topics. Is this the best way to go? There’s nothing wrong with a few long lenses, but many smaller lenses to compliment them can be very powerful as well.

When your readers notice that you have several lenses on one topic, they’ll be more interested in seeing what you have to say. “The more you have to say about one topic, the more people will think you know about it.” says Kimberly Dawn Wells. And, not only that, but “more lenses equals more links equals more opportunity to be found.”

You can take what Kimberly says “to the bank” as your Squidoo royalties will increase with more focused lenses too! How does that work?

The Importance of Topicability

Topicability : The Importance of Topicability -- Squidoo Lenses and Elsewhere. Ah, the importance of being TOPICAL! Inspired by Squidoo, I'm announcing the launch of Topicability : The Blog which made its debut on April 8, 2008!

Topicability : that which is relevant, of current interest, contemporary, spot-on.

Being a Giant Squid, Squid Angel, and prolific Lensmaster, I have learned first-hand the importance of Topicability particularly in how that translates to lensranking. I'm no stranger to blogging either, having womaned this very blog Jaguar Julie : Blog On! since December 2004.

I hope that you'll take some time to check out Topicability : The Blog where I'll be featuring Squidoo lenses that I happen upon which are spot-on topical!

HOW TO ADD YOUR LENS: Oh, want me to check out your Squidoo lenses for topicability to be featured in my Topicability Blog? Add your comment to this blog post and let me know how your Squidoo lens is topicable!

P.S. I guess you could say that a bit of my inspiration from 'yesterday' is the Oscar Wilde play, The Importance of Being Earnest. Have you seen the movie or read the book yet?

Who is Jaguar Julie on Squidoo

Who is Jaguar Julie on Squidoo? This Lensography, Jaguar Julie Lensography, hopes to answer that question as inquiring minds want to know!


I took on the name of "Jaguar Julie" when the Jacksonville Jaguars first hit town! That name became the name of my "brand" that has been primarily marketed online. Several years ago, as a supporter of Mark Brunell, our former quarterback, I sold his NFL, Premium Collection, Limited Treasures collectible bear. When Mark Brunell left town for the Washington Redskins, I later donated hundreds of these collectible bears to his local charity which benefits children.

This lensography was featured on March 7, 2008 as Lens of the Day [LOTD] making it the first of its kind to be a LOTD. No, my lensography was NOT the first lensography as there are many other lensographies to be found on Squidoo.

So, what did the honors of LOTD do for my rankings? Thanks to the wonderful people of Squidoo [there are so many cool people behind the scenes that I love each and everyone of them and would love to invite them over for dinner anytime], most importantly to all my wonderful visitors [xoxoxo] who visited my lens, and more particularly to those who took time to leave a 5 star rating [an extra xoxoxoxoxo], bah to those few who DID leave me a ONE STAR RATING* [God knows who you are!], LOTD took my lens to #1 in People! I forgot to thank God -- hey, did you know that Seth Godin is Squidoo King and actually has "god" in his name??? -- mom, dad, and those wonderful Dominican nuns with the rulers!!!

Yes, LOTD took my lens to #1 in People, and also helped to take my lens to #10 overall ranking amongst all lenses and #3 in top giants lenses. Thank you to the graciousness of Squidoo for picking my lens after TWO FULL YEARS of knocking my brains out coming up with ideas and burning up the keyboards, along with suffering through my first hard drive crash!!!

Stop by and visit me sometime ... maybe you too will be inspired enough to build your own Squidoo lens? Come on, what are YOU waiting for???

* P.S. If you are feeling regrets or a tad remorseful, you can go back and up those stars!
P.P.S. I want to adopt Gil !!! xoxoxo

Martha Stewart is Reading My Lenses

Martha Stewart is Reading My Lenses! Have you been watching Martha Stewart's TV Show lately?

Well, I have and I have thought for quite some time that she's obviously reading Squidoo lenses for ideas to feature on her TV show! Some of you might say it's just a coincidence, but I don't know about that! Maybe Martha Stewart is just on the same wave length as me? Or, better yet ... she and her staff have recognized the topicability of Squidoo lenses? Hey, Monkeybrain, is topicability a word?

UPDATE: I have deleted the lens: Martha Stewart is Reading My Lenses.

Let me show you what I'm talking about ... come take a look at this lens and make up your own mind! You can actually voice your opinion at the end of the lens, after doing your own empirical research within my lens. I present the segments from Martha Stewart's TV Show and follow that up with my lens -- all of which were created well before Martha's segments aired.

P.S. Be on the lookout for upcoming Martha Stewart TV Shows as she may be reading YOUR lens and featuring YOUR topic. Have YOU recognized the topicability of Squidoo?

By the way, you do know that Martha Stewart helped to popularize Polish Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipes along with Polish Pierogi? Yumm ... some of my favorite ethnic comfort foods.

Thinking back on this lens, it sure was funny at the time! Very topicable stuff. Martha Stewart and I have moved on to other things. She was even working with Snoop Dog! arf arf ...

Jaguar Julie Giant Squid

Giant Squid Sighting:  It's Jaguar Julie Giant Squid! Achieving the ranks of Giant Squid: What you can do to join me!

Yes, you too can be a Giant Squid on Squidoo. In the Summer of 2007, when the call went out to us lensmasters on Squidoo, the challenge was to create 100 interesting and topical lenses, by August 31, 2007, in order to earn the honor of being a Giant Squid. I do believe a few lensmasters, if not a lot, offered a bit of mild protest as "thee asketh too mucheth! 100 lenses, how can I accomplish that?"

Well, the mighty powers that be decided to scale back the challenge to a mere 50 lenses along with moving the deadline to September 4th. However, for me sitting at some 3 dozen, that number was still a wee challenge what with a normal 8-5 job. I honkered down and in no time was past the 50, and then 75 was in sight! August 31, 2007 was quickly approaching and I was ALMOST at 100!

Then, the UNTHINKABLE happened!!! OMG, I had a hard drive crash ... Aside from nearly flipping my wig, I realized that I hadn't done a data backup in weeks!!! Well, read about how I survived the hard drive crash, attained 100 lenses, and earned Giant Squid status. I'll also give you some pointers and tips so that you too can become a Giant Squid if that is what you desire!

P.S. I think I smell something fishy! lol

Jaguar Julie Squidoo SquidAngel

What it means to be a Squidoo SquidAngel: Blessings to you, my dear! An Angel Gets its Wings: Jaguar Julie Squidoo SquidAngel.

This is the SECOND instance, as the first instance was on Squidoo, that I've actually written about my Catholic upbringing in Cleveland, Ohio, and what an impact it had on my spiritual being. You see, it was the nuns and priests that I encountered in elementary and grade school who instilled in me strong Christian beliefs, particularly in Heaven and in Angels!

Then, after my grandparents all passed on it was in Lily Dale, a spiritualist community in Chautauqua County that I had my first spiritual reading. At that time, I was told that there were auras around me of two women; i.e. my grandmothers. They were likened to my particular guardian angels.

So, since my early days of schooling to today, I have had an appreciation for angels and take the role of Squidoo SquidAngel quite seriously! "Never treat such a blessing lightly my dear!" Want to know more about it? Well ... what are you waiting for!

P.S. What kind of angel are YOU???

Become a Squidoo lensmaster

What are you waiting for? Get in on the action over at Squidoo. Become a Squidoo lensmaster. Create a lens; start a debate if you dare! I'm over there waiting for you.

Do you know that creating a lens is quick and easy? It's also a great way to express yourself and actually focus your thoughts into one concise topic ... so unlike the helter-skelter of today's information world that has your mind going in every which direction creating mass confusion and TMI. A Squidoo lens allows you to pick ONE TOPIC and focus on just that ONE TOPIC.

I've been a Squidoo member and lensmaster now for precisely 2 years. I'm up to over 300 lenses along with 6 groups.

If you're a Jacksonville, Florida resident, supporter or just plain HAVE a lens about this great city, I encourage you to join Squidoo. Join me!

P.S. So! Would you believe it has now been almost five years since Squidoo transferred its content to HubPages? I followed that journey for one month and then retired my articles to my Google blogs. Time flies.

The Gruesome Threesome

The Gruesome THREESOME: Hey Monkeybrain are you kidding? If you want a poster child for society of someone you would NOT WANT your children to emulate, I've got THREE ... count 'em THREE that make up my GRUESOME THREESOME. They're some of the coldest, most controversial males still living today. And, I've got them in Hey Monkeybrain, Squidoo's lastest debates.

Do you even DARE to get involved and express your opinion on these guys? I've expressed my opinions now I double-dare you to express yours!

DREW PETERSON definitely DID IT! Oh man ... the arrogance and sheer audacity of this guy Drew Peterson just kills me! To have the nerve to accuse his wife Stacy of running off with another man and leaving her young children is just too much to stomach. Now with the latest news about the 'murder' of his third wife is there any doubt whatsoever?

SCOTT PETERSON definitely DID IT! Here is this arrogant guy Scott Peterson who murders his wife Laci Peterson and their unborn child! Scott Peterson definitely did it! Laci and her unborn child are no longer WITH US because of Scott. In my mind, and the minds of so many others, Scott Peterson is another O.J.

OJ definitely DID IT! There is no doubt in my mind that OJ did it! What is it? Well, excuse me for being rather blunt about it ... but you surely must have been either born yesterday or been living under a rock to not know about IT! Two words: Nicole Simpson. Another two words: Ron Goldman. OJ definitely did it!

P.S. I had three Hey Monkeybrain debates on the gruesome threesome. These Squidoo lenses have now been deleted. You know, in retrospect, it was kind of sad to think about these despicable men.

Controversial Hey Monkeybrain Debates

Hey Monkeybrain -- Wanna get a bit controversial? These are some of the Controversial Hey Monkeybrain Debates which I authored once upon a time on Squidoo. They have since been deleted. Read on to hear more about these debate lenses.

SILICONE vs. SALINE: Which side are you on? Do you need more of a title to know what I'm talking about? With all the previous press on silicone implants rupturing, is there anything to debate? Can you even get silicone these days? How about the new types of silicone implant--are they safer? Which is better or more natureal: silicone or saline? Which type do more Hollywood-types 'endorse?' What about Dolly or Pamela Anderson??? This is my most 'controversial' topic yet on Squidoo!

MADE in U.S.A. is an ENDANGERED Species! Have you bothered to look these days at the labels inside the clothes you wear to see where they are made? Well, I make it a point to do so as I've been a seller of apparel and accessories for a number of years, but NOT on eBay as I've been boycotting them for over two years.

So, back to the clothing labels. Let me give you this prime example: a Moda stretch top with shelf bra by Victoria's Secret. Do you know that my hubby bought me 4 different colors and each were made in a different country, but NONE were Made in U.S.A.! I've seen Philippines, Thailand, Taiwan, Bangladesh, and of course the Big Daddy of them all, CHINA! Yep, MADE in CHINA has taken a big shark bite out of MADE in U.S.A. that I challenge you to find such clothing today by a big brand name. Oh, you'll find plenty of small indie designers, but who else is left. MADE in U.S.A. is an ENDANGERED Species!

PAT PAULSEN for PRESIDENT! For those of you familiar with Pat Paulsen, you're apt to remember his unsuccessful bid for the Presidency in 1968, 1972, 1980, 1988, 1992, and 1996! Yes, he tried repeatedly as a member of the STAG Party -- Self Talking American Government Party -- for the opportunity to represent this country. He was known for his straight-talking campaign with two popular slogans 'I've upped my standards. Now, up yours.' and 'If elected, I will win.' Well, as my candidate has dropped out of the election, I'm opting for my leap year candidate: PAT PAULSEN for PRESIDENT!

A good debate Hey Monkeybrain

Hey Monkeybrain!  Are you up to a good debate? You'll need to check out Squidoo's lastest and greatest! It's Hey Monkeybrain and the debates are on. They're getting heated. You'll find debates from the presidential campaigns to what foods are hot to social networking and other platforms.

Here is a snapshot of Jaguar Julie's HMB debates:

SALTY or SWEET -- Which type of snack do you prefer? SALTY or SWEET? Which type of snack do you prefer? Actually, I prefer salty snacks ... I really do not have a sweeth tooth! I personally think it tells a lot about the person as to which they prefer. Is it something that's in the genes? Is it a male / female or Mars / Venus thingy? Is it geographical, ethnic, or age related?

Is it possibly astrologically-oriented? For example, I am a Cancer -- that's a water sign -- so does that explain WHY I prefer salty snacks? Can we say that a majority of Cancers and water signs will opt for salty over sweet snacks? Or is it something more profound ... like that time of the month vs. a football game and beer?

BLONDES are SEXIER and have MORE Fun! Blondes are sexier and have more fun! Speaking from personal experience and of course very deep humility, I offer up the premise that blondes are indeed sexier and definitely have more fun! Only my hairdresser knows for sure whether all those platinum hairs are naturally sprouting from my noggin or come from a bottle of Miss Clairol.

COOL WHIP vs. REDDI-WIP: Which side are you on? Ah, a sweet topic indeed. Cool Whip vs. Reddi-Wip! For years the battle has waged over these mighty contenders for the #1 spot amongst dessert toppings -- and other uses not to be mentioned in this PG-rated lens! One typically comes in a tub whilst the other in a handy spray can. Reddi-wip, introduced in 1948, is the brand of aerosol propelled, sweetened whipped cream produced by ConAgra Foods. Cool Whip was introduced in 1967 by the Birds Eye division of General Foods and is a product today of Altria Group. I personally prefer Cool Whip ... So, which side are YOU on?

Little White Dresses LWDs

Little White Dresses -- LWDs. It's a fashion statement, much like the Little Black Dress, that can be worn for all seasons -- not just for weddings.

I've been a fan of the Little Black Dress aka LBD for far too many years to count. To me, a Little White Dress aka LWD is another trendy item to include in your wardrobe. What's that you ask, "White, how can that be?" Yes, you see that the LWD has quietly gained in popularity, thanks in part to a host of celebrities.

A LWD can be a good alternative to the LBD. What's cool about wearing a LWD is that you can accessorize however you like! Oh, there is one caveat though, please do not wear a LWD to a wedding unless, of course, you ARE the bride.

Well, you'll find that I devoted an entire Squidoo lens to the LWD. In my lens, the first of its kind on Squidoo, I gave you more information on how trendy the LWD is today, along with showcasing some great fashion choices!