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  • Digital Archaeology: Codex (Floppy Disk) #9 (part 16)



    A summary for those that haven’t been keeping up with this series:

    I found a number of 5.25″ disks at a thrift store a number of years ago. I finally got around to acquiring a 5.25″ disk drive and extracting the contents a while back. Since then I have been posting the contents here.

    Based on the contents, at least some of these disks were apparently once owned by someone named Connie who used to run the “Close Encounters” Special Interest Group (SIG) on Delphi in the mid 1980s.

    A specific definition of this SIG was found in a document on one of the disks: “This SIG, known as ‘Close Encounters’, is a forum for the discussion of relationships that develop via computer services like the Source, CompuServe, and Delphi. Our primary emphasis is on the sexual aspects of those relationships.”

    This service was text based and was accessed via whatever terminal program you used on your computer to dial in to Delphi’s servers. Many of these disks have forum messages, e-mails and chat session logs. All of this is pre-internet stuff and I don’t know if there are any archives in existence today of what was on Delphi in the 1980s. In any case, much of this stuff would have been private at the time and probably wouldn’t be in such archives even if they existed.



    This post and the previous post include the contents of SEXPOS2.DOC and SEXPOS2.BAK. These are chat logs and contain mostly the same content with a few subtle differences that I can’t entirely figure out. .DOC starts slightly later in the chat but both seem to have a few messages here and there that the other doesn’t.

    See the previous post here.

    ===
    SEXPOS2.BAK
    ===

    list sexpos2.;1
    
    ** JOEY just joined CLE (2 members now) **
    Myself> howdy guy
    JOEY> Hi John
    JOEY> How ru?
    Myself> sok here - u?
    JOEY> Fine.
    JOEY> I got the message about the flags. But, how do you set them?
    Myself> the flags are already set
    Myself> you need do nothing about that
    JOEY> Oh, ok.
    Myself> also, you wouldn't be able to set them anyway since u don't have the 'm'
    
    Myself> flag which allows access to the membership system.
    JOEY> oh.
    Myself> your time is free
    JOEY> Should be a lot of people on here tonight.
    Myself> and thus you will not be billed for time in this sig.
    Myself> i hope so.
    /s dirigo hi - long time no c.
    JOEY> Yes, Connie explained that.
    Myself> ok
    Myself> nuf said
    JOEY> The contest sounds interesting.
    Myself> should be - expect to have first one up tomorrow
    JOEY> But, we are not eligible?
    Myself> not really Joey
    Connie and I have the questions and answers
    JOEY> I didn't think so. sok.
    Myself> Connie and I have the questions and answers
    Myself> and you are already free
    Myself> plus, it makes no sense for sig managers to participate in their promoti
    onals
    JOEY> True.
    Myself> We have to function above criticism in this thing. Just like real offic
    ial
    Myself> companies running their contests
    Myself> you know the usual messages - employees and families etc.
    JOEY> Well, I thought so. We run contests and have the same rules.
    Myself> exactly.
    Myself> now since ur an employee <sic> tote that barge ad nauseum
    JOEY> Ok. (smile.)
    Myself> and don't forget to lift that bale too.
    JOEY> And put your shoulder to grindstone.
    Myself> in this case ur shoulder is the grindstone <hahaha>
    ** Marti just joined CLE (3 members now) **
    JOEY> Hi Marti!
    Myself> well lookee here
    Marti> Hi Joey!
    /s marti thot u'ld never get ur bill paid so you could re-join us
    Marti> Hi John...hugs
    JOEY> We should have a new member here, tonight.
    ILLUSION>> who said it was paid <sigh>
    /s marti well I can dream can't I?
    JOEY> LOOP (Jane)
    ILLUSION>> yes...we all dream
    Marti> is connie coming?
    Myself> we should have plenty of new members here <I hope> someday
    Myself> not even breathing hard marti. <grin>
    Marti> hahaha....some people never change!
    JOEY> I knew he would say that.
    Myself> marti==>>what do u thnk of our new contest?
    Marti> is connie joining us tonight <let's see him do something to that>
    Connie will be present this evening but I doubt that there will be any "joining"
    
    Marti> sounds like fun....
    JOEY> That would even it up.
    Myself> Connie will be present this evening but I doubt that there will be any "
    joining"
    Marti> can't wait for the questions
    Myself> <I did too!> <so there!!>
    Marti> hhmmm.....shoulda known
    Myself> should be up this week
    Marti> any way to turn of echo here?
    Myself> have to get up early in the am to get around me.
    Myself> yeah
    JOEY> /noecho
    Myself> type /noecho
    Marti> Wow...that was hard!
    Marti> uh oh
    Myself> the difficult we do immediately
    Myself> the impossible takes a little longer.
    Myself> what uh oh?
    Marti> takes longer but is more fun
    JOEY> hehehe
    Marti> nothing...thot you would have something to say
    Myself> could be
    JOEY> longer=more fun
    Marti> well...if the topic is positions...
    Marti> looks like there is just me and you guys...
    Myself> u mean like after your 'that was hard' I should have said hope u enjoyed
    it?
    Marti> <grinning> any ideas?
    JOEY> hmmmmm
    ** SoftPaws just joined CLE (4 members now) **
    SoftPaws> hi all
    Marti> ops
    JOEY> Hi Tig.
    SoftPaws> hi marti!!
    Myself> hi soft
    Marti> Hi SoftPaws
    SoftPaws> huggs joe!
    <SoftPaws> hi my
    Marti> oh...is that you Tig?
    <SoftPaws> yes sure is!!
    <SoftPaws> using my plink *handle* hehe
    /gn cle sexual positions - 2
    Marti> How ya doing?
    <SoftPaws> fine and you??
    Myself> ** New group name "CLE SEXUAL POSITIONS - 2" selected **
    Marti> okay
    <SoftPaws> ah sure is
    <SoftPaws> this is fair..2 on 2 hehe
    /n Ms. Self <grin
    Marti> yes...was nicer with 2 to 1 tho...
    Marti> no offense Tiig...
    <SoftPaws> im sure (grin)
    JOEY> For you, Marti.
    <SoftPaws> none taken
    <SoftPaws> <yet>
    Marti> just always wanted a 3 some <grin>
    Ms. Self <grin> you were saying?
    <SoftPaws> sure sure sure
    Marti> or 4 some or 5 zsome
    JOEY> Settle for just some.
    <SoftPaws> ms?
    Marti> yeah...just some will do
    <SoftPaws> i dont settle
    Ms. Self <grin> right - makes it unfair again
    Ms. Self <grin> hahahaha
    /n Myself
    <SoftPaws> haha John
    JOEY> Hi!!
    Myself> just the four of us
    <SoftPaws> what time was CO for John?
    Myself> this will be a boring co <grin>
    Marti> it will?
    <SoftPaws> and where is Conie?
    <SoftPaws> boring? with me and Marti? hardly
    Myself> well, I changed it to 9:30 because folks often didn't start arriving til
    l then
    <SoftPaws> =* tee hee *=
    JOEY> True, Tig.
    <SoftPaws> thanks Joe
    Marti> HA...we can take care of you guys
    Myself> and since then, they are arriving even later if at all
    JOEY> I bet you could.
    <Tiggy> you shoulda said like 9 then they would show up at 930
    <Tiggy> i suppose
    <Tiggy> instinct is to be late i think tho
    JOEY> Your instincts?
    Myself> i was thinking abt that - but I can't get up from down in that short a t
    ime
    Marti> Ladies are supposed to be fashionably late..
    <Tiggy> not mine!! im
    <Tiggy> never late!!
    Marti> Guess we're not ladies
    <Tiggy> this is true marti
    Myself> original schedule of 9:15 allowed me to watch Airwolf and then get some
    <Tiggy> some sleep?
    Myself> refreshments just before opening the co.
    Marti> get some what?
    Marti> oh
    <Tiggy> hahahhahaa
    JOEY> Boy, is he fast.
    <Tiggy> <cherry coke/7-up in paws> lets gothen!
    Marti> Is Peg coming...er..joining us?
    Myself> no
    JOEY> hehehe
    Myself> and no comment!!
    <Tiggy> hahahaha
    Marti> ok
    Marti> just haven't seen anyone in so long.
    <Tiggy> achooo
    <Tiggy> me either marti no one has been in the sig since Nov 1958
    Marti> Bless you, Tig
    JOEY> Cold Tig?
    Myself> tiggy ==>> salud
    <Tiggy> thanks
    <Tiggy> yes very joey
    <Tiggy> went swimming at the river hehehe
    <Tiggy> <not by choice>
    Myself> no tig - that was 1858 !!
    Marti> Swimming???
    <Tiggy> ah!
    <Tiggy> yea i was pushed into the river hon
    Marti> we could swim up here if we wanted, right John?
    <Tiggy> we were having apicnic
    <Tiggy> *were*
    Myself> possibly
    Marti> picnic...sigh
    /gn cle - 4 on the floor
    <Tiggy> ** -- right back -- **
    Myself> ** New group name "CLE - 4 ON THE FLOOR" selected **
    Marti> leave are turning...winter is on the way
    JOEY> picnic, hmmmm, that is an idea.
    TIGLON>> 4 onn the floor? hhehehe
    <Tiggy> - signed off -
    Marti> guess she didn't like that idea
    Myself> no she said she'lf brb
    Myself> couple lines back up the screen
    JOEY> Take a box lunch.(grin)
    Marti> oh yea...I see it now
    Marti> pack a banan for me, joey
    Marti> banana
    Myself> I figured until more people show up and it being just the four of us
    ** TIGLON just joined CLE - 4 ON THE FLOOR (4 members now) **
    JOEY> Ok, and a taco for me.
    TIGLON> i want a burrito
    Myself> and this is the <sic> floor so to speak
    Myself> four on the floor seemed appropo.
    JOEY> With beans?
    Marti> the floor is nice....cool but nice
    <Tiggy> ill get the sheepskin if its too cold
    Myself> well, it would have been warmer but someone whose shall remain
    Myself> nameless forgot the bearskin rug - joey <hahaha>
    JOEY> <sorry>
    <Tiggy> =* tee hee *= namesless EH JOEY?
    Marti> well then...let's sit on joey
    <Tiggy> hahahaha wouldnt he die
    Marti> me first
    JOEY> I use bareskin myself.
    Myself> no thanks - he's not my type
    <Tiggy> ill paas
    JOEY> <line up>
    <Tiggy> er ...
    Myself> u leave 'myself' alone joey!!
    <Tiggy> ill pas
    Marti> gee...sorry joe...just me
    <Tiggy> er er er pass
    Myself> pass incomplete.
    <Tiggy> ah!
    TIGLON>> how ya doing?
    Myself> so far so good tig
    Marti> what are tig and myself doing?
    <Tiggy> ah good John
    <Tiggy> <nothing>
    JOEY> I wonder.
    <Tiggy> <andi mean nothing>
    Myself> exzactly
    <Tiggy> <gettting more cherry coke>
    Marti> hhmm...party poopers
    <Tiggy> <not me!!>
    Myself> now where is everyone - oh well - lets roll
    <Tiggy> roll mode
    Myself> comments anyone?
    /roll
    ROLL by Myself> (2d6) 3/6 5/6
    JOEY> Roll? good one.
    <Tiggy> ill bid one
    Myself> i'll c ur 1 and raise u 2
    <Tiggy> ill see your 2 and raise you a stocking
    Myself> I'll lower ur stocking and your drawers <giggle>
    Marti> is this strip poker?
    Myself> $%#@!! gremlins again
    JOEY> And raise a dress.
    Marti> darn...not wearing a dress
    <Tiggy> strip co?
    <Tiggy> <not wearing stockings>
    Marti> you wearing a dress Tig?
    <Tiggy> not me!
    Myself> me neither
    <Tiggy> a roe and socks here
    JOEY> Damn.
    <Tiggy> er robe
    Marti> robe and sock?
    <Tiggy> socks
    <Tiggy> on my tooties
    Marti> robe sounds sexy...but socks?
    <Tiggy> er feet
    <Tiggy> my feet arre cold thank you!
    <Tiggy> =* tee hee *=
    Marti> gotta get rid of the socks, tig
    Marti> put your feet on something warm
    <Tiggy> who said? ive never had any complaints
    <Tiggy> <looking for leg warmer>
    <Tiggy> <er foot warmer>
    Myself> me - didn't u recognize my voice?
    <Tiggy> no sure didnt John sorry
    ** E. just joined CLE - 4 ON THE FLOOR (5 members now) **
    <Tiggy> hi e
    <Tiggy> <grin>
    JOEY> Hi Liz!
    Myself> <plugging foot warmer in>
    E.> Hi folk.
    Myself> lo e
    Marti> Hi E
    Myself> hi beth
    Myself> good to c u
    Marti> you can see her?
    E.> Tks. Was watching tv.
    Myself> sure - I'ld recognize her baud anywhere
    <Tiggy> doesnt she have a nice baud>
    ** Connie & Rod just joined CLE - 4 ON THE FLOOR (6 members now) **
    <Tiggy> so ive heard
    Connie & Rod> hi!
    JOEY> Well
    <Tiggy> C&R!!
    E.> Hi Con & Rof.
    /gn cle - sexual positions - 2
    Myself> well is abt time u 2 showed up
    <Tiggy> rof?
    Marti> Hi Connie and Rod!!
    JOEY> Hi C&R.
    Myself> ** New group name "CLE - SEXUAL POSITIONS - 2" selected **
    <Tiggy> <wonder what THE were doing>
    <Tiggy> er they
    E.> THE?
    <Tiggy> they they they!!
    E.> The they.
    Myself> that is much better
    <Tiggy> ::pardon::
    Connie & Rod> Tiggy, we were doing research on the topic.
    Myself> now people r starting to show
    <Tiggy> oh sure sure (evol thots)
    <Tiggy> jon i sent 4 people mail real quick!
    Marti> Connie...tell us about what you learned!
    Myself> that's what I like, peoiple to really 'get into ' the subject !!
    Connie & Rod> we've learned that variety is the spice of life! <grin>
    /s cabuys and speaking of spice - hi lover <not u rod>
    <Tiggy> my foot warmer is coming!
    JOEY> It is?
    E.> So's Christmas.
    Marti> wow! some foot warmer!
    <Tiggy> yes he is Joe!
    JOEY> Do I know him?
    <Tiggy> dont know
    CABUYS>> hi lover
    <Tiggy> =* tee hee *=
    Myself> sorry tig, the foot warmer blew a fuse.
    Marti> Connie==> is that all the detail we're gonna get?
    JOEY> Oh, no. The Love Boat.
    Myself> it was a strange unit anyway.
    Connie & Rod> 'fraid so, Marti.
    Marti> Joey...you don't like Love Boats?
    JOEY> Shucks.
    Marti> nutz
    JOEY> Not on TV!
    <Tiggy> there he s!!
    ** Tim just joined CLE - SEXUAL POSITIONS - 2 (7 members now) **
    Myself> hi tim
    JOEY> Hi Tim
    <Tiggy> see!!
    Connie & Rod> hi Tim
    Marti> Hi Tim
    Tim> Hi!
    E.> Hi TIm.
    <Tiggy> tims!!! kisskiss
    Myself> we were not just talking abt u.
    Tim> Tiggy, ***kiss***
    <Tiggy> <ah>
    Myself> now back to the co
    Marti> maybe we can watch tim and tig
    <Tiggy> maybe maybe not
    Myself> why??
    <Tiggy> whynot!
    Myself> i asked first <nah nah!>
    <Tiggy> nah nah nah
    Myself> %$#@!! gremlins
    <Tiggy> sure John get a real puter hon
    Myself> I have got to get a de-gremlin-izer program for this machine
    <Tim> I get the feeling..
    <Tiggy> sorry hon
    <Tim> I've walked in on something interesting
    JOEY> You walked?
    <Tiggy> <ready!>
    Marti> not yet tim...but stick around
    Myself> well tell us abt it then <grin>
    /s cabuys martis account is like her bill being paid up.
    <Tiggy> <er um oh dahh>
    <Tiggy> <stereo mode>
    /s cabuys illusion!
    CABUYS>> tsk tsk tsk!
    <Tim> Who's telling what?
    <Tim> I'm confused
    Myself> I'm Myself
    <Tiggy> what is there to tell?
    Myself> pleased to meet you.
    Myself> ok folks
    Myself> lets try to start something here
    <Tim> So, the subject is positions eh?
    <Tiggy> yea Tims so I hear
    Myself> on the subject of sexual positions
    <Tim> I guess this sig is really on top of things
    E.> Tim: 1
    <Tiggy> ah score!
    Myself> yes tim, care to comment?
    JOEY> We try, Tim. (smile)
    Marti> What did tim get a point for?
    /s marti getting the topic!
    <Tiggy> cause hes so cute Marti
    E.> His pun.
    <Tim> You're too kind, tiggy
    Marti> ahh...I see
    <Tiggy> <true Tims>
    Myself> tim ==>> what's ur fav p[osition and why?
    /s cabuys hows that for putting 'm on the olde spot?
    <Tim> Well...
    <Tim> I like variety
    CABUYS>> very good!
    Myself> <don't we all?>
    Marti> so tell us about one or two
    <Tim> I mean there are definitely advantages to ..
    <Tiggy> or 3
    <Tim> being in various positions
    Marti> there are?
    <Tim> Ok, I like being on top sometimes
    Myself> yes marti - there really are
    Myself> <and there really is a heaven too>
    Marti> <showw me>
    E.> I like to do it on the floor, but haven't since I got a bad "rope" burn.
    JOEY> <ok>
    JOEY> Carpet burns are hell.
    Myself> <u got a little 'tied up' beth?>
    Marti> <rope burn??? mkinky!>
    <Tim> I hate it when that happens, E!
    E.> Carpet burn didn't sound too cool.
    Marti> I don't understand
    Marti> ok
    JOEY> Aww, Marti
    Marti> I got it Joey...finally
    E.> /cancel explanation.
    JOEY> E: 1/2
    Myself> tim ==>> sometimes ur on top - cont
    Myself> <all else pls quiet down a bit>
    Myself> <u 2 Myself>
    <Tim> There's more control ov
    <Tim> Sorry, was trying to control-x that
    <Tim> What I meant to say..
    <Tim> is sometimes I like the feeling of control of being on top
    <Tim> Other times, I don't like to do all the work , so..
    E.> I'll drink to that.
    <Tim> in those cases it's not such a great position
    <Tiggy> work?
    E.> He means labor.
    <Tiggy> heheh i guess
    <Tiggy> fruitful labor tho
    E.> You know, sweat.
    Marti> Just cause you're on top doesn't mean you're the only one working
    Myself> <fruitful only if she gets pregnant>
    <Tiggy> <not what i meant jm>
    JOEY> /cancel fruit
    <Tim> Yes, Marti, that is true..
    <Tim> but it is more work than..
    <Tiggy> Yes Tim..we *all* dont just lay there DO We?
    <Tim> for instance, when she's on top
    JOEY> I do.
    Marti> <Tig==> depends on who I'm with>
    <Tiggy> hahahhaa
    <Tiggy> Marti--* ah
    Myself> <comments pls>
    JOEY> !
    <Tim> Tiggy, I don't know, I haven't..
    <Tiggy> 2 x !
    Myself> <joey - stby a sec>
    <Tim> tried all of you yet
    <Tiggy> all of whom?
    Myself> Tim - last I have from you was
    <Tim> Reference to "we All don't just lay there", Tig
    <Tiggy> ah i see sorry
    Myself> 'for instance when she's on top' - could u pick up from there pls
    <Tim> Well, when the woman is on top..
    <Tim> I can relax a little more
    /s <tim and pls use the 'ga' construct to show u r done speaking -
    <Tim> Not to mention it's a different sensation
    TJH>> I never know when I'm done, sorry!
    <Tim> ga
    Myself> thank you - and don't b sorry - joey ga on !
    JOEY> There are two things I like about woman on top.....
    Myself> ,<breasts>
    Connie & Rod> john!!!
    Marti> <giggle>
    JOEY> 1) She can control things, thus, she gets more pleasure....
    E.> You call 'em things. John?
    JOEY> 2)
    JOEY> I LOVE to watch her face (among other things).
    JOEY> ga
    Marti> !
    /s kaplan no love - I don't call m at all - but I do use m.
    Myself> marti ga
    Marti> Joey...I don't necessarily agree that she gets more pleasure...
    Marti> but it is nice to be in control sometimes..
    Marti> and can't you look at her face when you are on top? GA
    /s cabuys I thought the comment was a valid one - griggle
    JOEY> !
    Myself> ga joey
    JOEY> No, my eyes are closed.(grin)
    JOEY> ga
    Myself> well
    Myself> I like her on top cause it gives me freedom to use my hands
    Marti> <open them>
    Myself> something I can't do much of when I am on top
    Myself> also, I get in deeper that way.
    Myself> ga
    Marti> !
    <Tiggy> !
    Myself> marti
    Myself> <tig next>
    Marti> This may sound dumb..but..
    Marti> what do you do with your hands? GA
    <Tiggy> <what i wanted to know too John>
    <Tim> - signed off -
    E.> ?
    Myself> ur right love - just a bit dumb sounding - tig ga <me next>
    Myself> <beth aft me>
    <Tiggy> My--* I wanted to know the same thing ho
    Marti> hhmmm
    Myself> well, with my hands free, Ii can do a lot of exploring
    Myself> and playing, caressing, and etc.
    Marti> ok, thanx John
    Myself> you know the obvious types of things one might do with hands
    Myself> like draw circles on warm flesh
    Myself> kneeding soft rounded breasts
    <Tiggy> you like touching then eh My?
    Myself> and maybe a few other things to stimulate my partner
    /s cabuys right lover?
    Myself> ga
    <Tiggy> or the excitement there in
    CABUYS>> remember me - I don't like being on top.
    Myself> well, tig - it pays to 'keep in touch'
    /s cabuys I know, but that's also good
    /s cabuys cause I get to please u ur way - so there!!
    <Tiggy> hehe Yea i agree.. touching is a nice part of it all
    <Tiggy> ga
    E.> My arms aren't that strong, and I can't stay on top more than a few minutes.
    I like taking turns.
    what is your least favorite position and why?
    Myself> ok
    Myself> next q
    Myself> what is your least favorite position and why?
    Marti> Hello?
    /s kaplan - u can always sit up - that is very nice feeling indeed!! wanna try
    it?
    JOEY> Hi Marti.
    Marti> <sorry>
    Marti> Didn't Liz have a ?
    Myself> <checking on '?'>
    Myself> so she did -
    Myself> beth ga
    /s cabuys love scroll back
    JOEY> She isn't here, John.
    Marti> when did she leave?
    Myself> she sure is
    /s kaplan u r here right - pls ga now
    E.> - signed off -
    JOEY> Got dumped.
    Myself> now she's gone
    Marti> she's trying out a position
    Myself> yeah, I think it is called dumped
    Myself> ok, back to next question
    ** <Tim just joined CLE - SEXUAL POSITIONS - 2 (6 members now) **
    <Tiggy> rehi Tims
    Myself> <wlcm bck tim>
    Marti> Hi again Tim
    Connie & Rod> hi again Tim
    <Tim> Hi, back from network or Delphi probs
    <Tim> not sure which
    Myself> for benefit of tim - next q is: what is least fav pos and why?
    <Tiggy> bet on delphi
    Marti> you missed the demo, tim
    <Tim> Demo???
    Myself> demo?
    Myself> what demo??
    Myself> <damn - I miss all the good stuff >
    Marti> <can't think of any positions I don't like>
    Myself> how abt "on your knees slave!!"
    <Tiggy> I can
    <Tiggy> er ops..
    JOEY> Yuk
    Marti> knees is okay...slave isn't
    Myself> ga tig
    JOEY> Marti:3
    <Tiggy> that was the position i was thinking abut liking the least ..
    <Tim> - signed off -
    Myself> <give a little thot marti - and u can find a pos u don't like - grin>
    <Tiggy> for 1 reason..
    <Tiggy> (amoung many)..you cant see what the other person is *doing*
    ..ie.expressions and such
    <Tiggy> ga
    Myself> ok
    Myself> I don't like sideways.
    <Tiggy> i do!
    <Tiggy> <ops> ga john
    Myself> it is great for printing spreadsheets, but murder on me!
    <Tiggy> why my?
    Marti> <hahaha>
    Myself> ga tig
    <Tiggy> sideways is nice..if you to it back to front.
    <Tiggy> ..cuase you can cuddle and touch around the other person for a
    while..before your arms fall asleep he
    Marti> that sounds hard
    <Tiggy> not really Marti.
    <Tiggy> depends on how agile you are I guess
    <Tiggy> <dang i wish i couuld draw this>
    <Tiggy> ga boss
    Myself> right - remember that sideways - the guy is always on one of the girls l
    egs
    Marti> ?
    Myself> and it is difficult to stay in from there.
    Myself> ga marti
    Marti> I think the position sometimes depends on the mood...
    <Tiggy> true
    Marti> sometimes you want something gentle..and slow...and easy...
    Marti> other times something...ahem...hard and fast GA
    Marti> <blush>
    <Tiggy> ehehe
    Connie & Rod> <excellent comments, Marti!>
    Myself> G, I can't imagine wht u mean there mwrti <grin>
    ** E. just joined CLE - SEXUAL POSITIONS - 2 (6 members now) **
    Myself> wlcm bck beth
    <Tiggy> ** -- right back -- **
    E.> Rehi all.
    JOEY> Hi Liz. Welcome back.
    /s cabuys system is runnig slow tonight
    <Tiggy>
    <Tiggy>
    E.> That was very weird.
    <Tiggy> - signed off -
    Marti> Hi beth
    E.> Hi Marti.
    Myself> we're talking abt least fav pos's right now beth, and what makes them le
    ast.
    E.> KO.
    CABUYS>> all *systems* are go here. <grin>
    Myself> <reeling from beths punch!>
    /s cabuys i am getting slo responses sometimes - maybe it's my buffer here
    E.> (tired of OK all the time)
    CABUYS>> things do seem to be slowing down - probably system problems again.
    /s cabuys no doubt
    Myself> now - before you got dropped - u had a '?' up - still care to comment?
    E.> No. I was up to the next question.
    Myself> ok, care to comment on that?
    E.> Sure...
    E.> 1) least fave, on the carpet for reason stated earlier...
    E.> and 2) being under someone twice my weight.
    E.> for obvious reasons.
    E.> ga
    Myself> heavy objection
    ** <Tim just joined CLE - SEXUAL POSITIONS - 2 (6 members now) **
    Connie & Rod> welcome back, Tim.
    E.> Only I kinda got used to breathing regularly.
    <Tim> I don't think Delphi likes me tonite
    Myself> hope u cn stick arnd a little longer ths time tim
    Myself> what net u on?
    <Tim> I'm on Uninet
    <Tim> Every once in a while..
    Myself> must b delphi then.
    <Tim> I get into a mode where nothing I type gets through
    <Tim> So I have to log off
    Myself> they are working on that problem
    <Tim> Then it takes 15 minutes to get back here
    JOEY> Try control c twice Tim and wait.
    Myself> should be fixed in the near future.
    Myself> these system problems have really been hurting the system over all
    <Tim> Thanks, Joey, will try that next time
    JOEY> Shoule wind up at Encounter prompt.
    Myself> ok
    Myself> moving along - how about more than two!
    Connie & Rod> ?
    Myself> c&r ga
    <Tim> More than two???
    Rod> if you haven't tried a number of positions, it's like a couple who have onl
    y heard one song saying they have a favorite song....
    <Tim> at one time?
    Myself> <right - 3 or more makes positions fewer to use and harder to work out>
    <Tim> two people??
    Rod> once you have experienced many positions under many circumstances then you
    have many "songs" in your life and then you can share a favorite.
    Myself> good point rod
    Rod> ga.
    Myself> well said
    Myself> I think the majority of relationships include only twop people at any g
    iven time as a rule
    Myself> and maybe they do or don't use more than one position -
    Myself> but what about when two become three - any experiences there?
    Myself> ga
    <Tim> Not me, I was just trying to clarify your statement
    Marti> <nice comparison, Rod>
    Myself> <no comments - ok> <back to our regular topic - positions>
    Myself> indeed, and well said too
    <Tim> What was the demo?
    Myself> yeah what demo??!
    ** <Tiggy just joined CLE - SEXUAL POSITIONS - 2 (7 members now) **
    Marti> You missed it Tim...we had a demo here of all the positions in Joy of Sex
    
    JOEY> Hi Tig.
    E.> Rehi Tig.
    <Tiggy> rehi guys s
    JOEY> We did? Did I have a good time?
    Marti> welcome back tig
    Myself> lo ti
    <Tiggy> thanks...ga with whatever i missed!!!
    Marti> Joey..you weren't in the demo
    Myself> if u have to ask joey - not likely u did
    JOEY> Shucks.
    <Tiggy> what was the question?
    Myself> sucks more like it
    <Tiggy> <getting chinese book of positions out>
    Myself> <using trusty fly swatter on resident gremlins>
    <Tim> we were talking about the demo, weren't we?
    Marti> ?
    <Tiggy> demo?
    Myself> marti ga
    Marti> I have a question...
    Marti> if someone does not like a position, it is even..
    Marti> uncomfortable or hurts...should they "grin and bear it" for the...
    Marti> sake of pleasing their partner...or should they say say.."hey..maybe it..
    .
    Marti> feels good to you, but I don't like it" GA
    <Tiggy> !
    JOEY> !
    E.> I say "ouch"
    Myself> ga tig then joey
    <Tiggy> Ok..isnt *speaking up* all a part of the relationship?? you jus dont wan
    t to do something that you dont like..
    <Tiggy> and the other partner thinks you do..and continues...kinda stupid wouldn
    t ya think?
    <Tiggy> only one of you is getting the pleasure.. ga
    Myself> <joey>
    Marti> !
    JOEY> It's not fair to either of you NOT to speak up.
    JOEY> ga
    Myself> marti
    Marti> Well...as someone once said...
    Marti> I think it might have been Dagwood...
    <Tiggy> <who is dagwood?>
    Marti> "a hard c*ck has no consciounsci
    <Tim> You know, of Blondie and Dagwood
    <Tiggy> OH
    Marti> ooops
    <Tiggy> joe--* no i havent
    <Tim> Dagwood said that?
    Marti> consciounce
    Marti> can't spell tonight..
    <Tiggy> neither does a soft one
    Myself> and I thought that was a 'family' comic strip too
    Marti> now it wasn't dagwood...but don't remember who it was...
    JOEY> Wrong context Marti.
    Myself> <illusion(s) shattered (sic) >
    <Tiggy> probably SHOE hehee
    <Tiggy> or CATHY
    Marti> He might apologize afterward..
    Marti> but wants it at the time GA
    Myself> well
    Myself> as noted already - it makes no sense to continue with a
    Myself> situation you find unpleasant for any reason
    Marti> conscience
    Myself> and u don't exactly help either ur slf or ur partner if you keep
    Marti> So the consensus
    Myself> quiet just to please them.
    Myself> it also is not at all fair to yourself
    Myself> ga
    Marti> is tospeak up
    <Tiggy> right Marti
    JOEY> brb
    Myself> right
    Marti> ok..thanks
    Myself> lets face it - just because ur partner likes something, or just wants
    <Tiggy> just explain why yo dont like the situation...and maybe suggest variatio
    n that mjust explain why you dont like the position..and /or suggest a variation
    that might be pleasing for both of you
    Myself> to try it out, if it isn't good from ur point of view
    Myself> then it isn't good.
    <Tiggy> <ugh>
    Myself> way to go tig
    <Tiggy> 2 sentences in one i think Gayle
    Myself> no biggy
    <Tiggy> ^U didnt work my
    <Tiggy> you get the picture tho i think?
    Myself> I kno, have had that trouble too
    Marti> Yes...good point
    <Tim> Yes, surely something can be worked out..
    <Tiggy> ..i mean if you cant talk in a relationship..something is missing alread
    y
    <Tim> but not if nobody says anything!
    <Tiggy> <saying hi to couple in corner being quiet>
    Myself> like the basis for the relationship
    <Tiggy> righto My!
    ** BENDAILY just joined CLE - SEXUAL POSITIONS - 2 (8 members now) **
    JOEY> back
    Marti> <watching couple in corner>
    Myself> lo ben
    <Tiggy> hi ben!
    Connie & Rod> <what couple, TIggy?>
    E.> Hi ben.
    BENDAILY> hello all
    JOEY> Hi ben
    <Tim> Hi Ben
    Marti> Hi ben
    BENDAILY> have i missed much so far?
    Myself> not really
    <Tiggy> all i hear from them Marti is a squeaky key now and then
    Myself> we only just warmed up
    JOEY> 22 positions, Ben.
    E.> <giggle>
    Myself> of course, we started at 9:30, but is ok
    <Tim> 22??? I guessed I missed about 20 of them
    BENDAILY> darn missed 'em
    <Tiggy> i counted 24!!
    Myself> I lost count
    JOEY> I combined two, Tig.
    <Tiggy> ah i see joey
    Myself> the demo screwed my up
    Connie & Rod> <name 'em, Tiggy!>
    Myself> <no, I missed that too>
    Marti> yea...I counted 2
    <Tiggy> really conie?
    BENDAILY> myself - u r 1 of the sysops around this section?
    <Tiggy> 1: plain
    Myself> so the rumor has it ben
    <Tiggy> 2: ..
    <Tim> Wish I''d have been here for the demo!
    BENDAILY> ok did u recieve the std survey that i sent u?
    Myself> word is I also run this conference.
    <Tiggy> <word WAS>
    <Tim> Peanut?
    Myself> yes, and it did get posted in the daabase - thank you.
    <Tiggy> yes Tims?
    BENDAILY> thank u was just checking
    <Tim> Is that number 2:?
    <Tiggy> no.
    <Tim> after 1:plain?
    BENDAILY> u have any comments on it?
    <Tiggy> 2: 69
    <Tiggy> 3: plain with whipped creme and nuts
    BENDAILY> thats always fun
    Marti> Peanut?
    <Tim> Is plain equal to missionary?
    JOEY> 77
    Myself> so far we have talked about being on top, being on bottom, and being sid
    eways
    <Tiggy> <grin 10$ extra for nuts)
    <Tiggy> yea tims
    <Tiggy> 3: sideways
    Myself> would like to touch on 69 and others though
    <Tiggy> 2: touch away!
    CABUYS>> I sent to Gayle to name the positions! <grin>
    <Tim> I'm game
    BENDAILY> i would like to participate in 69
    Myself> what do u like abt it ben??
    /s cabuys another fine victim
    <Tim> I won't even say how the subject sucks or anything
    <Tiggy> not to mention Tims
    <Tiggy> hhe
    <Tim> my what?
    BENDAILY> the idea of being able to be recieving pleasures as i give them
    E.> Don't you get confused?
    JOEY> I do, Liz.
    Marti> <good point E>
    <Tiggy> not if yo have concentration worth anything
    BENDAILY> im always confused so whart else is new
    E.> My concentration isn't worth beans.
    Marti> !
    Myself> how abt the rest of ur baud??
    <grin>
    Myself> <grin>
    Myself> marti ga
    BENDAILY> oh is 69 1 of the ways that u lose it most easily?
    Marti> 69 is fine...
    Marti> but I prefer one thing at a time..
    BENDAILY> E?>>>>
    Marti> I get pleasure by giving pleasure GA
    E.> If I try to do 69 and do the Sunday Times puzzle at the same time, I find it
    hard to concentrate.
    <Tim> He he
    <Tiggy> <on the puzzle>
    Marti> <will have to try that>
    E.> Exactly.
    Myself> if u cn do the sunday times puzzle when you are being 'had' then that
    <Tiggy> its works for a while..until your rythmn gives way to ..
    Myself> relationship is already finished! <griggle>
    E.> That's one man's opinion.
    BENDAILY> strange thatsounds kind of like a J.A.P. joke E>
    <Tiggy> screaming and moaning..etc
    E.> I didn't say I was doing my nails, too, Ben.
    BENDAILY> ha ha ha
    JOEY> Oh well, across and down, etc.
    <Tim> 69 doesn't always work that well..
    <Tim> depending on the partners
    E.> See, Joey knows.
    <Tiggy> he does?
    <Tim> I agree with Marti about one a t a time
    JOEY> Of course.
    BENDAILY> but E does he know u?
    <Tiggy> I use my nails...
    Marti> what do you know, joey?
    Myself> <marti ==>> relationship only skin deep>
    BENDAILY> in the biblical sense?
    JOEY> Lots o stuff.
    E.> Intimately, Ben.
    E.> I gave up the Bible for Lent.
    <Tiggy> so did i
    <Tiggy> all that sex and violence...isho
    BENDAILY> bible which bible?
    E.> Ben: 1
    <Tim> Now oral sex one at atime is a different story!
    BENDAILY> yes?
    <Tiggy> tell us a story Tim...
    BENDAILY> thought that is what 69 was tim
    <Tim> Well, according to my definition..
    BENDAILY> thank u my non understanding
    BENDAILY> no virgin to co's just new to delphi co's
    <Tim> - signed off -
    <Tiggy> bye tims
    E.> Poor Tim.
    BENDAILY> bye tim
    Myself> there he goes again
    ** TJH just joined CLE - SEXUAL POSITIONS - 2 (8 members now) **
    <Tiggy> anyone have something *rare* to speak of..?
    Myself> notice tim drops out when certain sex words come up
    <Tiggy> haha
    E.> Hang on tight this time Tim.
    Myself> that time it was virgin
    BENDAILY> s
    TJH> Sorry, it was system again
    Myself> <grin>
    BENDAILY> steak?
    TJH> used Joey's idea and got back sooner tho!
    <Tiggy> no i mean..something different ..
    E.> Joey: 69
    TJH> thanks , joey if you're still here
    JOEY> You're welcome.
    JOEY> 69 liz? Wow!
    TJH> anyway, i was trying to define 69
    E.> It was a biggie.
    Myself> tiggy ==Z>> what u have in mind?
    <Tiggy> joey--* and slammed into the medin sorta
    BENDAILY> hmmmm "non standard" sex activities?
    <Tiggy> my--* like couples..while they are computing or something..in a chair..o
    n the table (not rare)...etc
    E.> Like reading Penthouse?
    TJH> it's not equal to "oral sex" in general
    <Tiggy> yea ben sorta
    E.> I once went to bed with two gay men. (Long time ago, very pre-AIDS).
    <Tiggy> what happened E?????
    BENDAILY> how was it?
    E.> It was wonderful.
    Myself> <hard>
    <Tiggy> tell all E!
    Myself> i once did it in the front hall under the stairs and right outside the
    E.> No chance.
    Myself> first floor apartment door.
    JOEY> Shucks.
    <Tiggy> alright john!
    BENDAILY> did they get as much enjoyment with u as they did each other? do u thi
    nk?
    TJH> - signed off -
    <Tiggy> hahahah
    E.> Uh huh.
    Marti> Shucks Joey?
    JOEY> Liz won't tell, Marti.
    BENDAILY> oops gotta run
    <Tiggy> bye ben
    Myself> ok ben
    Myself> bye
    Marti> bye ben
    JOEY> bye ben
    Myself> thnx for dropping in
    <Tiggy> she jus teaseand then shuts up hehhe
    E.> Bye Ben. Nice meeting you
    Myself> and speaking of dropping
    <Tiggy> er tease and/
    Myself> lets all go to bed
    BENDAILY> hope to see u all real soon
    BENDAILY> together?
    <Tiggy> bed? at 8:24?
    Marti> with each other?
    E.> That's me a big tease.
    <Tiggy> ill take time and joey!
    <Tiggy> er tim
    <Tiggy> <whereever he is>
    Myself> sure
    JOEY> Yeah, you take me, you take time.
    Myself> we can all go to bed together
    BENDAILY> any body here in or near houston (before i go)?
    <Tiggy> i know Joe..i know
    Myself> separately
    Myself> no
    <Tiggy> california here en sorry
    E.> no.
    JOEY> 4 hours away, ben.
    Marti> Mass. here ben
    <Tiggy> joe!!!!
    Myself> bean town here
    <Tiggy> hehehe
    joey and ben - hmmm - that ought to b interesting <grin>
    BENDAILY> where r u calling from joey?
    Myself> joey and ben - hmmm - that ought to b interesting <grin>
    JOEY> Alexandria, La.
    TIGLON>> calling it quits?
    JOEY> What Tig.
    /s tiglon maybe - depends
    <Tiggy> i wanna watch My!! hehe
    BENDAILY> thud thud head to hand
    <Tiggy> joey-* nevermind
    BENDAILY> was thinking time zones not time in transit
    <Tiggy> ok..
    <Tiggy> another q
    Myself> tig - watch My what??
    BENDAILY> - signed off -
    Myself> ga with q
    <Tiggy> no! i meant watch joe and ben hehhe
    JOEY> No fun, tig, I just lay there.
    Marti> hahaa joey
    <Tiggy> Q: What was the most inconceivable thing youve ever done?
    <Tiggy> <i kow joey but you do it sooo well!!>
    E.> Not getting pregnant.
    <Tiggy> e--* thats easy to do
    JOEY> E:12
    <Tiggy> er not to do
    Marti> hahaha E...very good!
    <Tiggy> ie: in front of a group..something like that?
    JOEY> Getting married.
    <Tiggy> joe--* arg
    <Tiggy> john?
    JOEY> Marriage licenses oughta be like drivers licenses.
    Myself> parked care on main road during mid day
    Myself> <actually second most>
    <Tiggy> did someone see you John?
    <Tiggy> second?? tell the 1st!!
    Myself> depends on the steam on the windows. most likely not
    Myself> sorry - first is classified
    <Tiggy> lets ask couple # 2
    <Tiggy> <c&r> Well guys?
    E.> Let's ask Tiglon.
    Marti> John...was it YOU in the '57 Chevy that night?
    Myself> gotta have special govt clearance for that one
    <Tiggy> say something..if you can
    <Tiggy> ask waway E..i told all in my story hehhe
    Myself> which 57 chevy marti?
    <Tiggy> the one she ran into trying to look inside
    Marti> the blue one, John
    <Tiggy> =* tee hee *=
    Myself> no, I was in the other - other one
    JOEY> The convertible, Joh, You forgot to put the top up.
    <Tiggy> hahahah
    Marti> awww...wish I know who that guy was
    JOEY> He mooned the moon.
    <Tiggy> hheehee
    <Tiggy> got moon burns to I dont doubt
    TIGLON>> what was last week's Co hon?
    /s tiglon part one of which
    CABUYS>> what do you need govnt clearance for?
    /s tiglon part one of which this wk is part 2
    /s cabuys marti asked or was it tiggy -
    <Tiggy> ive always wanted to do it on the beach in greece
    /s cabuys about the most inconceivable thing u e
    TIGLON>> oh ok..
    /s cabuys about the most inconceivable thing u ever did
    JOEY> I LOVE it outdoors.
    E.> I've always wanted to do it on the beach in grease.
    <Tiggy> me too!! in sleeping bags is the greatest!!
    Marti> in greece on the beach?
    <Tiggy> uhg E
    <Tiggy> yea marti...i love greece..hot and sandy and all
    E.> In the ocean is nice.
    <Tiggy> and nude beaches heheh
    Myself> at least you'ld be well lubed beth
    JOEY> Not grease , liz, vaseline.
    <Tiggy> no vaseline..mazola
    JOEY> CRISCO PARTY!!!
    E.> I was kinda thinking Bain de Soleil.
    <Tiggy> ah sun tan oil eh?
    Marti> mazola? I've been missing something
    <Tiggy> mazola has no cholesterol
    <Tiggy> and doest get hard when frozen
    <Tiggy> <or is that sunlight?>
    E.> Neither does peanut butter, but it's kind of sticky.
    JOEY> E:2
    <Tiggy> jelly is a good lube E
    <Tiggy> better than Jello i think
    Connie & Rod> mazolla - slick trick
    E.> Too fattening.
    <Tiggy> <they speak once an hour>
    Myself> whipped cream and cherries
    Myself> great start for a 69 party
    Connie & Rod> - signed off -
    E.> Now you're talking, John. Fattening, but worth it!
    <Tiggy> my--* you like eating fruit off of your partner?
    ** Connie & Rod just joined CLE - SEXUAL POSITIONS - 2 (6 members now) **
    Connie & Rod> we speak when we need to, Tiggy! <grin>
    Myself> why not tig?
    Marti> a real quickie, huh connie and rod?
    JOEY> The only they said last time was deep heat...
    <Tiggy> no! i like that to John..just curious tis all
    E.> Once an hour isn't bad.
    <Tiggy> it isnt E?
    JOEY> Tonight, it is slick trick. Sheesh.
    E.> For several hours....
    <Tiggy> (gee im spioiled)
    Myself> i like peppermint too
    /s cabuys right
    <Tiggy> really?
    CABUYS>> right
    Marti> how about just pepper, myself?
    Marti> hhmmmm?
    Myself> not the same without the mint kid
    JOEY> Sneezing can be fun.
    <Tiggy> sneeze too much
    <Tiggy> kid?
    Marti> Will bring mint
    E.> Sneezing is like orgasm.
    Myself> tastes good and feels great
    Myself> I got launched once
    <Tiggy> according to Steve Martin yea E
    <Tiggy> launched?
    Myself> Just as Iwas getting there - she sneezed
    <Tiggy> hahahha
    E.> I didn't hear it from Steve Martin.
    Myself> figured the kids would be born that way too
    <Tiggy> hahah
    Myself> quick and painless
    <Tiggy> you were wrong huh?
    Myself> righgt
    Marti> HA!
    E.> Awwwww
    Myself> the kids all demanded womb service
    <Tiggy> ouch
    E.> And a womb with a view, huh?
    JOEY> Twins are womb mates.
    <Tiggy> wombies!!
    Myself> we had to install a bay window and a zipper
    <Tiggy> <so says baba wawa>
    Marti> Well..I gotta go..folks...got called..
    Myself> nite
    <Tiggy> bye marti!! kisskiss
    E.> Night Marti. See you soon.
    Marti> it's been fun...nice to be back...
    Connie & Rod> seeya Marti!
    JOEY> Nite Marti
    Marti> Night all!!
    Marti> - signed off -
    <Tiggy> well now its E and me against joe and john since C&R are taken
    <Tiggy> =* tee hee *=
    /gn tripple play
    JOEY> <puting on gloves>
    Myself> ** New group name "TRIPPLE PLAY" selected **
    E.> How do you know it isn't me and Joe against you and John?
    <Tiggy> i was hoping that E/...
    <Tiggy> <wrong sequence is all>
    Myself> or e n me against u n joe?
    <Tiggy> true
    E.> Voila.
    E.> So many combinations.
    Myself> or c&r n me against all of u!
    E.> And so little time.
    Connie & Rod> go for it, gang, while we take notes! <grin>
    <Tiggy> hahahhah dont u wish John
    JOEY> ?Wow, John.
    <Tiggy> to the showers Joe..where else?
    <Tiggy> ugh
    <Tiggy> forgot the /send
    JOEY> huh?
    E.> Come to think of it I wouldn't mind being against Joe or John at all.
    <Tiggy> between them E?
    <Tiggy> ive always wanted that..sigh
    Connie & Rod> is that against or up against, E?
    <Tiggy> heheh good point C&R
    E.> What do you think?
    Myself> i could rise to the occassion
    <Tiggy> Joe?
    JOEY> Yes.
    Connie & Rod> but Joey may be stiff competition, John.
    <Tiggy> that he might Connie (evol grin)
    E.> One at a time, please. (thinking it over)
    JOEY> We could get something between us.
    Myself> well I can be just as stiff as joey
    Myself> like a woman?
    JOEY> Right.
    <Tiggy> with persuasion John Im sure huh?
    Myself> <or two?>
    Myself> never met persuasion - she any good?
    JOEY> I have a stiff upper lip.
    <Tiggy> so i have heard hon
    <Tiggy> comes in handy Joe
    JOEY> Drives 'em crazy.
    Myself> cn do it that way too
    /s cabuys moving right along for a small group
    <Tiggy> e??
    E.> yes?
    <Tiggy> lost?
    <Tiggy> ah thereya are!
    E.> Sorry, distracted.
    CABUYS>> it sure is!
    <Tiggy> ohie!
    Connie & Rod> who's the distraction, E?
    <Tiggy> thats what I want to know
    <Tiggy> !!
    /s cabuys line noise rang my bell
    E.> My very own pups.
    <Tiggy> ar ar ar
    <Tiggy> pups?
    E.> My husband.
    JOEY> hehehe
    <Tiggy> <looking up that word>
    Myself> hi pups
    <Tiggy> ah married life yuko
    E.> Says you, dear.
    JOEY> Hi Alex.
    Myself> married life is great!!
    Myself> sex life is ok too
    Alex> Hi Joey.
    <Tiggy> just ok?
    <Tiggy> hi al
    Myself> jus ok
    <Tiggy> says me cause i dont kow is all
    Myself> why?
    <Tiggy> curious Joh
    <Tiggy> n
    E.> You get out what you put into it, no pun intended this time.
    E.> Right John?
    Myself> right
    Myself> care to demo?
    <Tiggy> i guess its the same as anything that needs work to grow and such
    E.> No offense, Joe, dear, you'll get yours I'm sure.
    <Tiggy> he often does yea E
    <Tiggy> <ops>
    /s cabuys get q's for me for tomorrow ok - planto post inafternoon some time
    <Tiggy> you can help me finish my next story Joe
    E.> What's the beginning?
    JOEY> I can?
    <Tiggy> sure!
    JOEY> How?
    <Tiggy> e--* i dont know yet
    CABUYS>> will do, dear.
    /s cabuys thanks lover - KISS
    E.> Then how can he help you finish it?
    <Tiggy> joe--* im sure you could think of something
    <Tiggy> he has to start it too hon..
    /s tiggy I can <grin>
    <Tiggy> i have an outline tho
    Connie & Rod> well, gang, notes are completed and it's time for bed.
    Myself> /s tiggy I can <grin>
    /s cabuys intentional sen on open
    <Tiggy> / myself ah really?
    Connie & Rod> goodnight everyone!
    <Tiggy> night night you too!
    JOEY> You got that backwards connie.
    Myself> night all
    Myself> time for bed
    JOEY> Nite c & R.
    Myself> wanna cum?
    TIGLON>> leacing after that remark?
    <Tiggy> i do
    <Tiggy> uh ugh
    <Tiggy> shut up gayle
    <Tiggy> ok
    /s cabuys kiss lover - night joey
    E.> cum laude (slow)
    JOEY> Nite John
    JOEY> slow is good.
    E.> Night John?
    Connie & Rod> - signed off -
    TIGLON>> you could what..start it or finish it?
    /s tiglon yes
    <Tiggy> well wel know what c&r are going to do
    E.> Well, I should go too.
    TIGLON>> both?
    /gn wrapping 'it' up
    E.> Been a long day.
    <Tiggy> night night E
    Myself> ** New group name "WRAPPING 'IT' UP" selected **
    <Tiggy> have fun on plink!
    Myself> could be tig
    JOEY> Nite Liz. Sleep tight.
    E.> I think I already have, Tig.
    <Tiggy> oh i bet!
    TIGLON>> oh sounds good to me
    E.> Speaking of wrapping it up...
    <Tiggy> <just realizing how cold it is here>
    Myself> close ur legs - its tighter that way
    E.> Always wanted to try the "Meet him at the door wrapped in Saran Wrap" trick.
    
    <Tiggy> try holding that aspirin
    <Tiggy> hahahahaha
    Myself> say when E
    JOEY> Just make sure it's *him*.
    E.> I'll remember that Joe <grin>
    <Tiggy> well if him rings the bell..itll be him
    Myself> <removing shirt>
    <Tiggy> right?
    E.> Maybe yes, maybe no.
    <Tiggy> <taking off robe>
    Myself> <and pants>
    E.> That's it, right John?
    <Tiggy> I'll open with 2 cards
    Myself> right
    <Tiggy> ah
    E.> Atta boy!
    Myself> <dealing two cards>
    E.> All conversations lead to underwear.
    <Tiggy> <looking at cards and counting clothes..uh>
    Myself> which is all I have left on.
    E.> Or lack thereof.
    <Tiggy> or removal thereof
    Myself> u have to win first
    E.> Jacks or better?
    <Tiggy> yes e
    Myself> right
    E.> I prefer strip Monopoly.
    <Tiggy> i cant win with these cards JOhn
    /gn strip co
    Myself> ** New group name "STRIP CO" selected **
    <Tiggy> that takes too long E
    <Tiggy> try strip yatzee
    E.> You got it.
    JOEY> Strip monopoly? hmmmmm
    E.> Ready when you are, J.
    TIGLON>> people get sillyy after midnight huh
    JOEY> <getting board>
    Myself> right tig
    E.> Too difficult over the modem. Come back!
    <Tiggy> can i play?
    Myself> drawing one card
    E.> I don't know. Can you?
    JOEY> ok.
    Myself> I call
    <Tiggy> what u got John?
    Myself> I called - u tell
    <Tiggy> can it bet 3 kings and an ace?
    Myself> sorry love - royal flush
    <Tiggy> arg
    <Tiggy> what u want off?
    JOEY> Well, nite folks.
    Myself> what u got on?
    Myself> nite joey
    <Tiggy> well lets see..
    JOEY> Enjoy the game. (smile)
    <Tiggy> night joe !!==Tiger Kisses== & //Lion Licks//
    <Tiggy> robe..socks..undies...
    <Tiggy> thats bout all
    Myself> u took robe off already
    Myself> take off the socks
    <Tiggy> and my teddy (oh yea..robe is on floor)
    <Tiggy> <socks off>
    E.> Night folks. See you next week.
    Myself> dealing next hand
    JOEY> - signed off -
    E.> - signed off -
    Myself> nie e
    <Tiggy> bye guys!
    <Tiggy> er too late
    Myself> they all gone
    <Tiggy> so i see..im slow
    Myself> think I will too
    <Tiggy> or 300 baud is alow
    <Tiggy> night night hon!
    Myself> ur baud is ok - so i am told
    <Tiggy> take care ok?
    Myself> nite
    <Tiggy> oh ye?? says who?
    Myself> - signed off -
    
    WS> ^Z

  • Why Competition Is the Antidote to Big Tech’s Bad Behavior, Not Politicians

    Since the start of 2021, debates about hosting sites, web services, and social media bans have drawn attention from all sides of the spectrum with some calling foul, citing free speech concerns, while others attest that it is simply warranted ownership control.

    We have a love-hate relationship with technology that is confounded by ever evolving platforms, privacy concerns, and posting privileges. And those who recently rallied on Reddit are the latest instigators for attracting legislators.

    Big Tech is a hot button issue, and prohibiting access is a big deal. But these companies have the right to do so, just as hedge funders shouldn’t be demonized for doing their jobs while rogue investors claim revolution.

    As long as a company isn’t physically or forcefully harming another individual or their property, the ability to intervene is limited until new legislation is enacted, and we should be wary of calling for further government interference and be mindful that new laws can backfire. Regulatory decisions, even when meant to benefit the public, can impact future prospects and forms of competition within the marketplace.

    Actually, the success of Big Tech could be attributed to minimal government interference early on (since you can’t control what you can’t understand… which may still be the case). Larry Downes, a business internet analyst and digital strategist claimed in a 2018 article featured in the Harvard Business Review that “The best regulator of technology… is simply more technology. And despite fears that channels are blocked, markets are locked up, and gatekeepers have closed networks that the next generation of entrepreneurs need to reach their audience, somehow they do it anyway — often embarrassingly fast, whether the presumed tyrant being deposed is a long-time incumbent or last year’s startup darling.”

    Indeed, supposed monopolies in competitive economies don’t last forever; and although certain platforms and parties are currently in a dominant position, new entrants always emerge. Just as the rise of big box stores created concerns in the 1960s for Mom-and-Pop shops, the rise in online sales created similar concerns for the behemoths of the retail sector in the 1990s. The market self-corrects if given the chance.

    So instead of partaking in the illiberal Big Tech backlash, or pushing to raze or regulate existing systems — such as the charge to change the stock market or reprimand the GameStop mob — take comfort that when there are big problems and shifts in the status quo, new avenues will appear. Vending machines distributing COVID-tests and inventive restaurateurs and retailers demonstrating the power of a profit-motive are current examples for meeting marketplace needs.

    Just as the pandemic lockdowns were (and still are) debilitating and debatable, there has been a realization of resilience and the need for restructuring. And so, it is somewhat safe to say the same will be true for the online and trading realms. A ‘want’ doesn’t go unmet for long in advanced societies, and loopholes are ever-present for enterprising individuals.

    Change is never easy and pay to play models will likely emerge, but organic change may be just what is needed, and not new policy creation which is a common feature in daily news cycles.

    Legacy media and powerful platforms have dulled our senses, and even when our health depended on it, many were (unsurprisingly) unable to distinguish between what was true or false. This has pushed some to the peripheries throughout the pandemic and resulted in traveling down rabbit holes that only furthered the global distrust of media and fed existing biases. Personal discourse has evolved into online performativity, and it seems our metacognition(the ability to think about thinking) needs a serious redress given the success of some conspiracy theories and the swarm of shorting stocks.

    So, like any vice that is in our life, individuals need to take on some personal accountability for what has transpired in the online and trading realms.

    The power players didn’t achieve their status by force and most allowed us access to their services for free (whether for tweeting our thoughts or jumping on a bandwagon for buying stock). It is the producers and users (composed of individuals) who have furthered such ventures.

    Like an actor without a stage, a podcaster without a platform may simply need to change course and an investor without an advisor may realize the investment is worth a professional opinion.

    These current conundrums may force us to become more locally-oriented—investing in our communities, not corporations, and conversing with our neighbors rather than listening to mass media moguls, political pundits, and tribal troop leaders.

    Having a concern for community news rather than capitol chaos (which disgusts and distorts American viewpoints) will have more of an impact on our lives any day of the week, particularly since we struggle to understand what we are being shown and what is being shared when on a grander scale anyway.

    If given a chance, the market will provide new sources and structures, since creative destruction brings better processes. And Henry Hazlitt’s succinct words of wisdom are important to remember in situations such as this—“The ‘private sector’ of the economy is, in fact, the voluntary sector; and the ‘public sector’ is, in fact, the coercive sector.”

    Solutions will arise as long as regulatory bodies are kept at bay and rational ethical entrepreneurs and innovators are left unbridled. What is needed now is true economic freedom (removing the incentive of crony capitalism and political policing) and the welcoming of enterprising individuals.

    Kimberlee Josephson


    Kimberlee Josephson

    Dr. Kimberlee Josephson is an Assistant Professor of Business and the Associate Dean for the Breen Center for Graduate Success at Lebanon Valley College in Annville, Pennsylvania.

    This article was originally published on FEE.org. Read the original article.


  • ‘IBM PC Compatible’: How Adversarial Interoperability Saved PCs From Monopolization

    Adversarial interoperability is what happens when someone makes a new product or service that works with a dominant product or service, against the wishes of the dominant business.

    Though there are examples of adversarial interoperability going back to early phonograms and even before, the computer industry has always especially relied on adversarial interoperability to keep markets competitive and innovative. This used to be especially true for personal computers.

    From 1969 to 1982, IBM was locked in battle with the US Department of Justice over whether it had a monopoly over mainframe computers; but even before the DOJ dropped the suit in 1982, the computing market had moved on, with mainframes dwindling in importance and personal computers rising to take their place.

    The PC revolution owes much to Intel’s 8080 chip, a cheap processor that originally found a market in embedded controllers but eventually became the basis for early personal computers, often built by hobbyists. As Intel progressed to 16-bit chips like the 8086 and 8088, IBM entered the PC market with its first personal computer, which quickly became the de facto standard for PC hardware. There are many reasons that IBM came to dominate the fragmented PC market: they had the name recognition (“No one ever got fired for buying IBM,” as the saying went) and the manufacturing experience to produce reliable products.

    IBM’s success prompted multiple manufacturers to the market, creating a whole ecosystem of Intel-based personal computers that competed with IBM.

    In theory, all of these computers could run MS-DOS, the Microsoft operating system adapted from 86-DOS, which it acquired from Seattle Computer Products, but, in practice, getting MS-DOS to run on a given computer required quite a bit of tweaking, thanks to differences in controllers and other components.

    When a computer company created a new system and wanted to make sure it could run MS-DOS, Microsoft would refer the manufacturer to Phoenix Software (now Phoenix Technologies), Microsoft’s preferred integration partner, where a young software-hardware wizard named Tom Jennings (creator of the pioneering networked BBS software FidoNet) would work with Microsoft’s MS-DOS source code to create a custom build of MS-DOS that would run on the new system.

    While this worked, it meant that major software packages like Visicalc and Lotus 1-2-3 would have to release different “PC-compatible” versions, one for each manufacturer’s system. All of this was cumbersome, error-prone, and expensive, and it meant, for example, that retailers would have to stock multiple, slightly different versions of each major software program (this was in the days when software was sold from physical retail locations, on floppy disks packaged in plastic bags or shrink-wrapped boxes).

    The PC marked a departure for IBM from its usual business practice of pursuing advantage by manufacturing entire systems, down to the subcomponents. Instead, IBM decided to go with an “open” design that incorporated the same commodity parts that the existing PC vendors were using, including MS-DOS and Intel’s 8086 chip. To accompany this open hardware, IBM published exhaustive technical documentation that covered every pin on every chip, every way that programmers could interact with IBM’s firmware (analogous to today’s “APIs”), as well as all the non-standard specifications for its proprietary ROM chip, which included things like the addresses where IBM had stored the fonts it bundled with the system.

    As IBM’s PC became the standard, rival hardware manufacturers realized that they would have to create systems that were compatible with IBM’s systems. The software vendors were tired of supporting a lot of idiosyncratic hardware configurations, and IT managers didn’t want to have to juggle multiple versions of the software they relied on. Unless non-IBM PCs could run software optimized for IBM’s systems, the market for those systems would dwindle and wither.

    Phoenix had an answer. They asked Jennings to create a detailed specification that included the full suite of functions on IBM’s ROMs, including the non-standard features that IBM had documented but didn’t guarantee in future versions of the ROM. Then Phoenix hired a “clean-room team” of programmers who had never written Intel code and had never interacted with an IBM PC (they were programmers who specialized in developing software for the Texas Instruments 9900 chip). These programmers turned Jennings’s spec into the software for a new, IBM-PC-compatible ROM that Phoenix created and began to sell to IBM’s rivals.

    These rivals could now configure systems with the same commodity components that IBM used, and, thanks to Phoenix’s ROMs, could also support the same version of MS-DOS and the same application programs that ran on the IBM PC.

    So it was that IBM, a company that had demonstrated its expertise in cornering and dominating computing markets, was not able to monopolize the PC. Instead, dozens of manufacturers competed with it, extending the basic IBM architecture in novel and innovative ways, competing to find ways to drive down prices, and, eventually, giving us the modern computing landscape.

    Phoenix’s adversarial interoperability meant that IBM couldn’t exclude competitors from the market, even though it had more capital, name recognition and distribution than any rival. Instead, IBM was constantly challenged and disciplined by rivals who nipped at its heels, or even pulled ahead of it.

    Today, computing is dominated by a handful of players, and in many classes of devices, only one vendor is able to make compatible systems. If you want to run iPhone apps, you need to buy a device from Apple, a company that is larger and more powerful than IBM was at its peak.

    Why have we not seen an adversarial interoperability incursion into these dominant players’ markets? Why are there no iPhone-compatible devices that replicate Apple’s APIs and run their code?

    In the years since the PC wars, adversarial interoperability has been continuously eroded.

    • In 1986, Congress passed the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act, a sweeping “anti-hacking” law that Facebook and other companies have abused to obtain massive damages based on nothing more than terms-of-service violations.
    • In 1998, Congress adopted the Digital Millennium Copyright Act, whose Section 1201 threatens those who bypass “access controls” for copyrighted works (including software) with both criminal and civil sanctions; this has become a go-to legal regime for threatening anyone who expands the functionality of locked devices, from cable boxes to mobile phones.
    • Software patents were almost unheard of in the 1980s; in recent years, the US Patent and Trademark Office’s laissez-faire attitude to granting software patents has created a patent thicket around the most trivial of technological innovations.

    Add to these other doctrines like “tortious interference with contract” (which lets incumbents threaten competitors whose customers use new products to get out of onerous restrictions and terms of service), and it’s hard to see how a company like Phoenix could make a compatible ROM today.

    Such an effort would have to contend with clickthrough agreements; encrypted software that couldn’t be decompiled without risking DMCA 1201 liability; bushels of low-quality (but expensive to litigate) software patents, and other threats that would scare off investors and partners.

    And things are getting worse, not better: Oracle has convinced an appeals court to ban API reimplementations, which would have stopped Phoenix’s ROM project dead in its tracks.

    Concentration in the tech-sector is the result of many factors, including out-of-control mergers, but as we contemplate ways to decentralize our tech world, let’s not forget adversarial interoperability. Historically, adversarial interoperability has been one of the most reliable tools for fighting monopoly, and there’s no reason it couldn’t play that role again, if only we’d enact the legal reforms needed to clear the way for tomorrow’s Phoenix Computers and Tom Jenningses.

    Images below: IBM PC Technical Reference, courtesy of Tom Jennings, licensed CC0.

    Source: ‘IBM PC Compatible’: How Adversarial Interoperability Saved PCs From Monopolization | Electronic Frontier Foundation