Traveling Monkbot Project

Now that antennas have been raised, offensive smells have been eradicated, batteries have been bought, and visors have been donned...the Traveling Monkbot Project (or TMP) is ready to officially get underway.

What is TMP?
TMP is a way to connect all Monkbots around the world via a skeery little toy that was bought on eBay and "fashioned" by this blog's owner to become the Traveling Monkbot.
Actually...it's Shelley's way of trying to get a side-splitting picture(s) of Taylor Hicks holding said Monkbot...especially if more than one person encounters Taylor and he's like "What the crap is this boomerang of a monstrosity these weird people keep shoving at me to have my picture taken with?" Yeah...that would totally rawk.

How does TMP work?
As readers of this blog learn of the project and decide to take part, they will send their shipping information to monkbottalk@gmail.com and agree to house the Traveling Monkbot for a week...taking photos of the Monkbot at landmarks or hot spots in their city or just around their home before shipping it to the next recipient.

Who can take part?
Well, if I know you...you can take part. I'm not sending this out to anyone who doesn't have an established presence at Monkbot Talk...period. I love inclusion, but I'm a realist...the folks here will care about the project more than someone who simply learns of it and asks to take part on a lark. Sorry...that may be mean...but tough. I've worked too hard on this to see it go down the toilet because someone doesn't take it seriously (well...as seriously as you can take a mechanical monkey jazzed up to look like a crazed Monkbot).

Will my address be kept private?
Yes and no. Everyone will need to send their address to me, Shelley. I will then map out an initial route for the Monkbot to travel on his wild adventure (however long it takes...my guess is as good as yours on this). As people are added to the project, I'll work them into the plan. But, to keep me from having to pay out the wazoo for shipping over and over and over again...I think it would make more sense for the Monkbot to be sent to the next person from the current holder. So, your actual address will be shared with whomever has the Monkbot before you, so they can address the box (however, there is a caveat to this...allowing for total anonymity...as you'll read below).

Do I have to let folks know where I live if I take part?
That's the point of the whole thing really...to see where everybody is...at least in the general sense of city and state...not street address. (Besides, it'd make no sense to have Traveling Monkbot photographed at landmarks and NOT know where those landmarks are.) However, if you wish for your information to be kept private but you want to be a part of the fun, that can be arranged. You would just let me know that in the initial e-mail. I will make sure the person who sends you the Monkbot would only know your mailing address (shipping name would be Monkbot Smith or something) and when your photos are posted on the site, I'll only indicate the city and landmarks without mentioning your name.

Will this cost me anything?
Just shipping and time. As far as overseas, I'll be sure to ask if you would mind taking on that burden before I sign you up to ship to another country...but I will ask that someone step up and help (if you are willing to do this...please indicate so in your initial e-mail). I can't swing putting in more money than I already have on this project.

How do I get my photos to you?
You e-mail them to monkbottalk@gmail.com. I do NOT want to have to scan in people's pictures. I don't have the time to dedicate to that and I won't offer to do it. Shelley's the meanest Monkbot in town.

How many pictures will I need to provide?
I ask that you limit the picture count to 7 (clean and suitable for viewing by Monkbots young and old). And DO NOT send me 20 pictures and tell me to decide. I will turn red with anger and seethe like a Monkbot gone wild! Simply choose the best/most representative/funniest photos and send them to me.

Will I need to write anything?
Yes...but NO NOVELS. When you send the photos, include text in the body of an e-mail about your visit with the Monkbot...what y'all did...where you went...if he burped his wine...etc. Also, if anyone is pictured with the Monkbot (pets included) please identify who is in the photo. DON'T ASSUME I KNOW WHO SOMEONE IS. You may think I should know that Roberta is your grand-niece or Alphonso is your husband...but I won't know unless you tell me...I ain't that smart. Also, be sure to clarify what we are seeing in the pictures. If you've photographed Traveling Monkbot outside of the town hall...tell me that's where he is. AGAIN, I DON'T KNOW UNLESS YOU TELL ME...ASSUME NOTHING...I'VE BEEN KNOWN TO CONFUSE BIG BEN AND THE CHRYSLER BUILDING.

When will my story be posted?
As soon as I know the Monkbot has been received by the next person, I'll post the most recent tale. I know time is precious to everyone but I would like for Monkbot to stay on the move as much as possible...at least a week at each person's house and no longer than three weeks at any location.

Shelley, do you seriously want pictures of Taylor Hicks with the Monkbot?
Um...unequivocally and resoundingly...YES! If you think you may be going to a concert or appearance with Taylor, let me know as soon as possible. I would love to have at least one shot of the thing with the original Monkbot...more shots if possible.

What happens if I lose the Monkbot?
I'll cry.

Of course I ask that you take care of the Monkbot and treat it responsibly (away from dogs and kids...off high ledges and out from under Mack trucks). However, seriously, don't sweat it. If something happens to the thing...well, I guess the project will end. We'll write a nice eulogy and move on. Don't feel like you're responsible for guarding it with your life...THIS IS JUST FOR FUN!

When will I get my turn with the Monkbot?
I'll put together the list as names come in and make out the route. I will try to let you know a week ahead of time when you will receive the Monkbot. However, as this is something I've never done before and cannot possibly predict how operation of the project will run...I make NO PROMISES!

Do you think/hope/want Taylor Hicks or Gray Charles to get the Monkbot and take part in the project?
OF COURSE!!! But I'm not expecting it in the least. If it happens great...if not, it's okay. So, don't get expectations up. Let's focus on just seeing where all this little guy can travel and what he can see...that in itself is cool enough.

Can I get it first?
Dibs have already been called. Sorry. After I take pictures of Traveling Monkbot around Jackson, I'm mailing this mug out!

How do I sign up?
Easy. Send your name (what you go by online) and your physical address to monkbottalk@gmail.com! I will send you a confirmation e-mail to let you know whether or not you were accepted into the Traveling Monkbot Project.

Okay, folks, I think that about covers it. If I have additional guidelines, I'll be sure to post updates.

I can't wait to hear from you. Let's get this Monkbot on the road!

---