Sweet Memes

Wedding Fever!

1. Who's was the last wedding you attended?

My niece's, last summer.

2. Do you enjoy attending weddings, or do they bore you to tears?

If I know the people, I enjoy it. I always enjoy the church part; the reception can go either way.

3. Would you prefer your wedding to be a lavish event with hundreds of guests, or a casual one with good friends and family? (or if you're already married, what was yours like?)

Our was psychotic: mostly casual but we were in formal clothes: men in tuxes, women in long dresses. Whatever. If I had to do it again, I'd have a picnic after eloping.

4. Have you ever been part of the wedding party?

Many times. Aside from the obvious, I have been a bridesmaid...uhm...three times in my life, and a reader twice. I was even unofficial "backup bouncer" at one.

5. Does marriage in general make you feel goopey and warm inside, or skeptical?

It is entirely dependent on the people getting married, although I lean towards goopy slightly. However, if I suspect that this couple isn't exactly matched, I tend towards skepticism, which has increased as I age.

Got Gas?

1. Do you find yourself driving less due to the high gas prices?

I wish I could say yes, but we live about 6 miles from the nearest...anything...so we drive a lot. And summer, with a teenage boy, means even more driving.

2. This week, Exxon Mobil reported quarterly profits of more than $10.3 billion, the second-best quarter ever for a U.S. company. As we're paying, on average, $3.00 per gallon here in the U.S., do you think the oil companies are using the conflict in the Mid-East as an excuse to gouge consumers?

Yes. No question. Jerks.

3. According to the Department of Energy, adjusted for inflation, the price of gasoline is still below its all time peak back in 1981. Back in 1981 the average new car got 21 miles per gallon. Today the average new car gets 22 miles per gallon. Why do you think there hasn't been more innovation and progress in this area?

Because Big Business would rather make money than progress. There is a new documentary out called Who Killed the Electric Car? which discusses this very idea.

Week Number Twenty-Eight:

Let's say you unexpectedly find yourself in Hell after you die. Think about everyone you've known in your life; which one person is the least likely to surprise you by being in Hell with you?

PsychoBoss, my previous employer.
...although I don't technically believe in hell; I already worked there with her for 5 years.

What brings you good luck?

Positive attitude make things feel 'luckier' than being grouchy all the time.

I Don’t Talk Funny!

(Pick the word that is familiar to you or add one of your own)

1. Soda, Soft Drink, Soda Pop or Tonic

I grew up saying "pop." While I was in college, I was trained to say "soda" so I wouldn't be laughed at. As soon as we moved out of that state, I intentionally slid back to "pop" although I still call it "soda" sometimes. My brother insists on "sodapop" for some reason.

2. Hoagie, Sub, Po Boy, Grinder

Most people around here call 'em "subs" or "sub sandwiches."

3. Goobers or Peanuts

Hee. They are "peanuts" to me, but I know a good camp song about "goober peanuts."

4. Candlepin or Ten-Pin bowling

Never heard of the first word. I just call it "bowling" unless I mean some variation like ninepin.

5. Dungarees or Blue Jeans

"Jeans." My mom got in trouble with her mother-in-law for letting my sisters play outsie in "dungarees" when they were little, though. I never say "blue jeans" unless I'm differentiating between the blue ones and the black ones.

6. Shopping Carriage, Shopping Cart, Buggy

I use "shopping cart" unless I'm in England, where they are called "shopping trolley." There's a family joke about them. It's not funny unless you've heard my nieces going on about it.

7. Frappe or Milkshake

"Shake."

8. Jimmies or Sprinkles

I grew up with "sprinkles" and had to have "jimmies" explained to me in college. I still think it's a goofy word, and prefer "sprinkles."

9. Hot Dog or Frankfurter

"Hot dog, get your hot dogs here!"

10. Relative or Kin

Totally "relative."

11. Soda Crackers or Saltines

For all the infrequent times I refer to them at all, "soda crackers." Mom almost always called them that, but occasionally went with "Saltines."

12. Rubbish, Trash or Garbage.

I rarely say "rubbish." It was always "trash" when I was growing up, but again, the people I went to college with called it "garbage." "Trash," however, seems to have a connotation of dryness, while "garbage" is, er, wetter. I tend to follow that subconsciously.

13. Rotary or Traffic Circle

We don't have them around here, but if I talk about them at all I call them "roundabouts" since my primary experience with them is in England.

14. Barbeque, Grill Out or Cookout

"Barbecue" is a kind of food; we usually "grill out" when Beast uses the grill (hmmm, wonder why?). A "cookout" for me involves camping, or at least picnicking.

15. Funnel Cake or Fried Dough

My only experience with this is at the various county and state fairs I've gone to. Most of the time you can get "funnel cakes" in one booth and "fried dough" in another. I'm not fussy about what they're called, just bring it on!

16. Flapjacks, pancakes, or griddlecakes

I'm all about the "pancakes."

17. Bedroom Suite or Bedroom Suit

I've NEVER heard it referred to as a "suit." Frankly, I think "suite" is a little la-di-dah; I just call it "matching furniture." Maybe I'd feel different if we actually had matching furniture!

18. Bundles, Sacks or Bags (of Groceries)

"Sacks" are paper, while "bags" can be either but are usually plastic nowadays. Mom always called them "paper bags" but I generally make the distinction between plastic and paper with the words "bag" and "sack." Bundle never figures in at all.

19. Front Entrance or Front Stoop

How about "porch" instead of "stoop," or "front steps?" I've never used "stoop" seriously in my life, and "front entrance" sounds like a shop of some kind.

20. Frying Pan or Skillet

Hmmm, I seem to have a split personality on this one. I grew up with "skillet." Somewhere along the line, it was middle-classed into "frying pan." Now I use both, just about equally, depending on how gentrified I want to be. I never really thought about it...and I really don't use a frying pan OR a skillet very often....

July 30

1. Do you have a photo blog? If so, feel free to share the link with us!

Nope. Thinking about it, but haven't done it.

2. How many pets do you own, and what are their names? If none, have you had a favorite pet in the past?

Sparky has one guinea pig named Buddy.
We used to have the world's best dog, named Shady, who simply had a personality to die for. She was wonderful in almost every way. And I was allergic to her. She stuck around for 13 years, though.

3. How many times a week does the carpet in your house get vacuumed? No carpet? How many times a MONTH do your floors get mopped?

Vacuuming: usually no more than 3 times a month
Mopping: twice a month

4. Which room in your house do you spend the most time in?

The living room, on the sofa, with the laptop.

5. Have you read any good books lately?

Yes. I'll try to update my book blog today.

6. What is your biggest source of news? (Newspaper? Television? Radio? Other?)

For local news, I skim the local paper. For the big stuff, I rely on the internet and Beast, a.k.a. My Personal Clippings Service.

You scored as "Lean On Me". You are Bill Withers' son "Lean On Me". Up-beat and sentimental. You sometimes need a shoulder to cry on when you are feeling blue, but you are always there when others need you as well. "Lean On Me" 75% "(I can't get no) Satasfaction" 75% "Play that Funky Music" 75% Crash and Burn 67% "Stacy's Mom" 58% "I'm Blue (Da Ba Dee...) 58% "Pink Panther Theme Song" 58% "Englishman In New York" 42% "Bad Boys" 33% "Sk8er Boi" 33% What Song Are You?? created with QuizFarm.com

I'm surprised "Satisfaction" and "Englishmen in New York" scored so high; I'd've put them both lower; and I actually like "Sk8er Boi." But yeah, I think this is generally pretty accurate.

...and...

Your Love Song Is

Thankyou by Dido "And I want to thank you for giving me The best day of my life Oh, just to be with you is having The best day of my life." It's all good, as long as you're in love.

I like this song. Does that matter? While I think these lyrics are fitting, I'm not sure the rest of them are....

Fill In The Blank Day

My favorite female musician is Melissa Etheridge.
My favorite guitarist is Eddie Van Halen.
My musical guilty pleasure is bubble-gum pop music, a la The Backstreet Boys.
My favorite Beatle is John. (George is...was...a close second)

Now, let's see how good your musical knowledge is. Fill in THESE blanks.

"Stand By Me" by Ben E. King.
"867-5309" by Tommy Tutone. [sp?] And her name was Jenny.
"The Girl's Got ________" by AC/DC. I've absolutely no idea; I could never get past their clothing to their music....
"What's So Funny 'Bout (Peace, Love and Understanding)" by Elvis Costello. Still waitin' for an answer, too.
"One ______ At A Time" by Johnny Cash. Nope, no clue. Sorry, John.
"Save A Horse, Ride A Cowboy" by Big and Rich. I couldn't identify the tune, but I know the line. It's been around at least since I was in junior high. Don't ask me how I know. {hee}

from NotShyChiRev

1. What's the high temperature today where you are?

The high temp was supposed to be 96 here. I'm pretty sure we reached it, along with 90% humidity. Our outside thermometer says it's currently 85 degrees...at 8 p.m.

2. Favorite way(s) to beat the heat.

--Staying inside with the a/c and a book; but I usually prefer to wait till it's in the mid-80s outside
--This isn't really 'beating the heat' but if it's not too humid, I like sitting in the sun and basking
--Cold drinks, and lots of 'em
--When I was a kid, we used to run through the hose whenever it got this hot. Admittedly, most adults look ridiculous doing this, but who cares? It's very refreshing.
--Shopping at a mall, going out to dinner, visiting the library...we've done all of these this summer when our electricity went out and we had no a/c
--Eating lighter foods: salads, fruits, etc.

3. "It's not the heat, it's the humidity." Evaluate this statement.

Yup. When it's hot in a low-humidity environment, you sweat, the sweat evaporates and cools you off. When it's hot with high-humidity, you sweat, the sweat and the humidity mix and run down your skin. It sucks, sometimes very literally. It can be 90 out in Colorado and I'm perfectly comfortable (especially if there is a breeze), but mix in humidity and forget it. I'm cooked.

4. Discuss one or more of the following: sauna, hot tub, sweat lodge, warm-stone massage.

I loathe saunas--see the discussion of humidity above. I've never done the last two on the list, but they sound miserable, unless the warm-stones are being applied in the middle of January. Hot tubs are great although they are much nicer when the air temperature is at least 30 degrees lower than the water temperature. I want a hot tub, actually, but it's not in the cards right now.

Any of these will make me absolutely nauseous from overheating if used inappropriately. Right now, they all sound absolutely awful.

5. Hottest you've ever been in your life

The longest I've been consistently hot was probably Mississippi last month. But the worst heat was in about 1989 when we were living in an upper flat--very under-insulated--during a summer that broke heat records almost every day in July and August. We caved in after awhile and bought the last window a/c unit for our bedroom. It ran all night just to keep our room (door closed) cooled down to 80. There was no air circulation because the living room windows didn't open at all, and the floor plan discouraged any movement between any of the other rooms. It was really miserable, but I was young and didn't mind that much. We never went to bed before midnight that summer.

Non-temperature related bonus: In your opinion... who's hot?

--The guy we saw at the pool on Friday--no clue what his name was, but Holy Mother of God was he scenic! AND, he was a fabulous dad to his very adorable kids.
--William Petersen, George Eads, Gary Dourdan...and, well, Marg Helgengerger, Jorja Fox, and Eric Szmanda
--Tiger Woods, Brett Favre, Andre Agassi, Jeff Gordon, David Beckham, Corey Pavin, and Jerome Bettis
--everyone in the middle west of the North American continent, and probably most of the rest of the continent too but I haven't seen a proper weather forecast for a couple of days....

Episode 48

Name seven things you have done or would be willing to do to reduce your contributions to global warming.

1. I've been recycling whatever I can (plastic, paper, metal, glass) for at least the past 20 years. I just wish the market would open up for more second-use products.
2. I rarely drive one place for one thing: most of my trips somewhere are at least dual-purpose.
3. We keep the temp low in the house in the winter and put on more sweaters. The house is very air-tight with good windows and doors (i.e., non-leaking) and energy efficient layers in the double-pane glass. We have porches on two sides and only 3 rooms ever get direct sunlight, which helps keep the house a little cooler in the summer.
4. I've already cast my vote with Beast that when we look at buying our next car, we will at least give the electric/high gas-mileage cars more of a look than we normally do.
5. I consistently try to reuse almost everything I possibly can: plastic bags, clothes, boxes...although I have given up on reusing wrapping paper.
6. We primarily use cold water for laundry. If it weren't for my allergies, I'd be willing to hang out most of our clothes as well, at least in the warmer months. However, as it stands, I'd rather not be hospitalized, so we use the dryer.
7. All of our appliances are among the most energy-efficient available. And we're careful to use them properly and service them appropriately (although I really need to pull out the fridge and clean the coils one of these days!).

Trust me: we're cheap. We save everything in order to save money, which right now has the added benefit of saving the environment. Global warming is no joke, and it is something to be alarmed about, in spite of what Our Illustrious Leader tells us.

Some favorites...

...ice cream? Peppermint
...city? London
...daytime tv show? I don't watch much daytime TV. Maybe "Cold Pizza" on ?ESPN (I'm not even sure if that's really the right channel!)
...sport? To watch: football. To play: bocce or croquet (I'm becoming quite tame).
...store? Target
...vacation spot? All-time: Maine or Ouray
...game? Sheepshead
...vegetable? Corn on the cob
...time of day? Early morning
...thing? Silence

Lisa tagged me:

1. Do the following WITHOUT complaint.
2. Choose five people to do this after you’ve completed yours.
3. Leave a tag on the person’s tagboard to say he/she has been tagged.
4. Start your post with I have been tagged! Then do this. (copy and paste!)


Favourites:
Favourite Colour: blue
Favourite Food: pasta
Favourite Movie: "Heathers"
Favourite Sport: to watch: football -- to play: bocce
Favourite Day of the Week: Monday (I know, I'm weird)
Favourite Season: Fall
Favourite Ice Cream: Peppermint

Currents:
Current Mood: bummed: we're leaving for home today
Current Clothes: pajamas: shorts and top
Current Desktop: a photo of lilypads I took a couple of weeks ago
Current Time: 8:40 a.m.
Current Surroundings: vacation home in the Territory, in the living room with Sparky waiting on the couch next to me (he wants the laptop back), Beast making business travel plans across the room on his laptop, and Miss El reading HP on the other couch; The Big C just went downstairs
Current Annoyances: The Big C--I anticipate problems now that he's back down with the kids
Current Thoughts: I should be packing.

First:
First Best Friend: Laura M., who lived behind my grade-school babysitter. She was my best friend in high school as well. I think I had some friends before that, but besides Chris and Tony who rented a house across the street from us, I don't remember any names. I proposed to Chris. Hah.

Last:
Last Drink: Diet Dr. Pepper
Last Car Ride: home from town yesterday after a brief shopping foray
Last Crush: Not sayin' (heh)
Last Phone Call: probably Beast
Last CD played: I have no idea; I haven't heard any CDs while we were on vacation, except through the kids' earphones while they're listening

Have you ever:
Have you ever dated one of your best friends: I married my best friend
Have you ever broken the law: I haven't done anything major, and I've never been fined, ticketed, or arrested
Have you ever been arrested: no
Have you ever been on TV: yes
Have you ever kissed someone you don't know: I've kissed some people I didn't know very well

Things:
5 things you are good at: typing, making peace, organizing paper, planning trips, hugging
4 things you have done today: ot up, washed my face, ate breakfast, memes (that's about it so far, too!)
3 things you can hear right now: the ceiling fan, El turning the pages of her book, Sparky pacing

I'm not tagging anyone specifically. If you haven't done this already, and if you want to do this, please leave me a comment or link so I know where to find your answers! :-)

Labels: Tags

Week 182

Italy :: Mmmm, food....
Honk :: This summer's kids' musical
Shades :: Sunglasses
Tool :: Clawhammer
Modern :: Cons (as in "mod cons")
Tension :: Spring
Conservative :: Uptight
Weight :: Balance
Insurance :: Fraud
Political :: [can I say Fraud again?] Washington, D.C.

Episode 120

1. If you had to choose a theme song for your blog, which would would you choose and why?

For this one, I'd have to go with The Eurhythmics' "Sweet Dreams." For my other blogs, it would probably have to change almost daily.

2. Which was the last kind of doctor you visited, and which one do you need to visit the most?

For a change, it's the same: I went for an allergy shot a couple of weeks ago. I go every 5-6 weeks, though I usually don't actually see the doctor while I'm there.

The doctor I actually see most is my GP, about 3 or 4 times a year.

The one I need to visit is my ob/gyn. I haven't had my annual yet this year; I'm about 4 months behind....

3. What's stopping you from making the appointment with the doctor in #2?

Inertia. It's not the most pleasant experience, frankly, though I don't get all worked up about it. I think he said, because of my 'special case' status, I could skip a year anyway.

4. Take the quiz: How scary are you?

You Aren't Scary, You're Scared

Probably even scared to see how this quiz came out!

How Scary Are You?

Oooo-kkaaaayyyyyy.

5. What's the most exotic drink you've tried recently? Did you like it enough to have another at some point in the future?

I had a sip of the Beast's hurricane yesterday, just to try it out. I won't be likely to order one...not a huge tequila fan. Before that, it was probably TGIFriday's Long Island Iced Tea. It was nice, and I do love LIITs; I'll have more.

6. Who was the last person you had an online conversation with? How long had it been since you had previously talked to that person either on the phone or in person?

I'm not quite sure how to define "online conversation." I haven't chatted with anyone since Amy and I went gonzo a couple of months ago in Google Chat. I've seen her since then, and talked to her by phone as well.

However, I have had some interesting quick email exchanges with several people since then: Beast, Chris, Amy (of course), a couple of people at work...but I don't use IM very often. It's a bit disruptive for me.

You Are 28% Bipolar

Overall, you're a pretty stable person. You may be a bit moody, but nothing out of what's normal. As long as your emotions aren't severe, you're totally in control!

I'd probably get a different result in the winter, and that could be a bad thing, I think....
_________________________________________

Your Vampire Name Is...

Demeter of the Underworld

OK, well, whatever.
_________________________________________

Your Rising Sign is Cancer

You are compassionate and kind - and the one who gives security. And while you sometimes tire of it, people always turn to you for advice. Emotions are your domain, and you use tend to use them for good. But you've also been know to be very manipulative when you need to be. You're quite loyal to those you love most - friends and family. For everyone else, you tend take time to build up trust.

I'm not sure about 'giving security' but I was just whining recently about being the Dear Abby of the workroom. It gets old.

As for being manipulative, not for nothing was I the youngest-by-a-decade in my family! :-)

Movies and TV

1. A couple of months ago the American Film Institute (AFI) came out with 100 Cheers, 100 [Y]ears which was a countdown of the top 100 feel good movies of all time. The top movie was It's A Wonderful Life. What would be your choice for #1?

I've never seen "...Wonderful Life" so I couldn't pick it. Before I looked at the list (again), I was thinking "Singin' in the Rain" (which they put at #10). But I think they're #6 would be good too: "Wizard of Oz." I'll go with that one.

2. Do you every buy anything you've seen advertised on TV? If so, what was it and were you happy with it or was it a waste of money?

Of course I buy stuff that is advertised on TV. I simply don't buy it because of the ads. In fact, at times I stop buying things because the ads are so annoying.

3. Do you watch reruns or shows that are in syndication? Which ones?

We watch Spike TV's reruns of CSI pretty regularly. It's the only reason for Spike TV to exist in my universe.

4. What's [sic] your top five favorite shows? If you want to expand on why they're your favorites, please do.

CSI--I like all the actors because of their acting (difficult to look Intent on Your Work week after week, after all), because they are very easy on the eyes, and because I like the way the show is shot and the subject matter.
Survivor--It's fun to yell at the stupid people. That occasionally includes Jeff Probst, but more often it's the contestants.
The Amazing Race--I like Phil. A lot. And the rest of the scenery is nice too. It's also fun to yell at the contestants.
Orange County Choppers--They make some fabulous bikes, and it's always fun to see the Pauls, Jr. and Sr., shouting each other down. And Mikey. Ohmygod, Mikey. hee
Mythbusters--All those things we've been told are fact, or suspect as frauds (like pop rocks and soda causing your stomach to explode) are tested by people who really enjoy blowing things up!

5. What's the last movie you went out to see?

We went and saw "Monster House" a couple of days ago. It was pretty funny.

6. What's the last movie you've seen on DVD?

We watched "Ferris Bueller..." again (for the thousandth time" night before last.

7. Do you prefer going out to the movies or staying at home and watching DVDs?

If the movie is really good, I'd rather see it in the theater. I just hate to bleed out my wallet for a shitty movie.

8.Have you decided to watch any of the new TV shows that have been advertised this year?

No. I don't really have time to spend on a lot of TV shows, and picking new ones is a surefire way to ensure they are cancelled once I get all wrapped up in them.

9. Have you got a show that you loved but got cancelled after only a few episodes or mid-season?

Not for a long time. See #9 above.

Flamboyant Friday

1. Would you consider yourself to be flamboyant or fairly conservative?

Fairly conservative.

2. What is the most flamboyant thing about your appearance?

I'm currently wearing 4 toe rings...and (oops) no earrings. Oh, and an anklet.

3. Do you secretly wish you were more flamboyant? In what way?

No, not really. I'm kind of over wanting flamboyance (is that a word?).

4. Where is the line between flamboyant and tacky for you?

I'm watching What Not to Wear right now, so my answer is "white people with dreadlocks = tacky."

Your Wrestler Name Is...

The Masked Chainsaw

Seems appropriate, and of course the picture is definitely 100% accurate, too.

hah

The Name Game

1. Are you named after anyone? If so, explain.

I was named by my sisters, because my parents picked horrible names for them. They named me after a friend of my oldest sister...
...and for many years, I didn't think they did much better in the naming game than my parents did with them.

2. Do you have your children's names picked out already? If so, is there any significance?

Yes. My child is 13. He's named after both of his grandfathers.

3. If you were born a member of the opposite sex what would your name have been?

I have no idea. Undoubtedly something biblical.

4. If you could re-name yourself what name would you pick and why?

I'm good with my name. I used to hate it, but the only thing I'd change now is to drop my husband's last name. Not because of him, but because I'm hyphenated and it's too long.

5. Are there any mispronunciations/typos that people do w/ your name constantly?

All of my names, except my middle name which I never use, are misspelled consistently.

Taste

1. What’s a film you were sure you would dislike but ended up liking?

I'm surprised at how much I like all the Matrix movies.

2. What food did you used to dislike but now enjoy?

Onions.

3. What silly fad or craze do you remember immersing yourself in?

When I was a kid, all of them. We even had a pet rock for awhile.
I think you could include blogging in the 'fad' thing...

4. What was the last thing you regretted purchasing as soon as you got it home?

It's been awhile...
Oh, a pair of capris that are really badly designed for anyone with hips.

5. How would you describe your taste in the opposite sex (or the same sex, if you lean that way)?

I like strong personalities, a quirky sense of humor, honesty, and kissable lips.

from Lisa
the test, however, is here

Let's begin by saying that you are a high achiever and you are never satisfied until you're at the next level of advancement. Yes, you're a workaholic. You'll do whatever it takes to complete assignments or projects on time and as close to perfection as possible. That makes you an exceptional employee and/or leader.

While you are working, you're always balancing perfection and pragmatism. You always want it done right, yet it has to work in an efficient way. These are not easy processes to mix because most applications are complicated by some unpredictable physical encounters, by differences in how people work, and by time constraints. Yet no matter what the obstacles, you seem to accomplish with high standards almost everything you set out to do.

When you undertake any task, you need three questions answered before you can be confident that the task can be accomplished and proceed. The three questions are as follows:

1. "What's the objective?"
2. "Why are we doing this?"
3. "How can we do this most efficiently?"

While you are getting the answers to these three questions, you continue to move doggedly ahead and finish the task. You won't let anything or anyone stand in the way of accomplishing what has to be completed. You will push people intellectually and physically to do what they are assigned. The task and its time requirements almost always take precedence over people.

You love structure and logical procedures. Without at least a semblance of them, you can become very frustrated in your assignments at work. You constantly ask for these structures and procedures from your superiors. If they still aren't provided, you create them yourself and apply them to the situation and people surrounding you. Then it's full steam ahead!

You dislike chit-chat or meandering conversation. You like things straight on and to the point. There's no time to beat around the bush or stray off task. You dismiss or avoid people and situations that are not task-directed. This bull-headed approach can frustrate others and get you in trouble sometimes, particularly when you're not the boss. The older you are, the more you have developed an understanding of how not to be so confrontational all the time. In fact, you may have learned some alternative ways to approach people in certain situations that will not make them defensive when you need clear structures, procedures, and immediate actions to finish tasks or projects.

You are a winner. Sometimes, the price can be high. It's constant movement from one mountain peak to another. To stay so focused and action-oriented, you have to learn to carry very little baggage from one project or position to another. That's why you insist on clean and orderly desktops at the end of the day. Every so often, you realize how isolated you can become while ascending to the top; however, you continue because you know that this comes with the territory of being No. 1.

You are the consummate high-achieving learner who strives to break the curve in your class and to become an authority on what you're striving to learn. Finishing first gives you the control over your destiny that you desperately need, since you're an independent achiever who knows what you want and where you want to go.

You are a logical, realistic thinker who always needs two questions answered: "Why is this happening?" and "What's the objective or task?" Whatever you are thinking about has to be backed by history and fact. If it doesn't provide these criteria, you are at first skeptical and then rigidly non-accepting. In fact, you're the ultimate skeptic who rarely will be moved into any action without having all of your ducks in a row.

Overall, however, you can be a pragmatic realist who can get people to do what you want. It's during moments of verbal interaction that you can let associates know what needs to be accomplished, how to proceed, and why it is necessary to do it immediately. To make it clear for everyone, you'll have a detailed plan set up explaining what is required for each person to accomplish their tasks and to successfully meet the team's goal.

Traditional learning (lectures and reading) comes easily for you if the lecturer or books are factual, logical, and historical in their approach. However, if the teacher wanders from the topic or uses too many personal examples and grammatical miscues, your respect will dwindle. If these teaching errors continue, you become impatient and arrogant.

You are an excellent listener and reader who easily memorizes and logically categorizes everything. You zero in on the details and build your own rational conclusions. Then you check them over and over in many different ways. It's not that you are distrusting, it's that you're a true, rational, and realistic skeptic. However, if you present something or state that you're going to do something, you know people can depend on you to do it rationally and correctly.

Communications (Verbal):

• Powerful and direct
• A clear and to-the-point communicator, exacting and precise
• Basically factual and logical, may be detailed if needed
• Internally critical when others don't use proper English
• Chit-chat is disregarded unless a superior initiates it
• Excellent debater
• Impatient with long-winded, vague speakers
• Telephone manners are cordial and direct

Communications (Written):

• An excellent writer who has an innate need for perfect grammar and spelling
• Able to use clear logic and linear thought progression
• Creative and imaginative only when necessary
• Extremely critical of their own and others' writing; an exceptional editor
• Gets right to the point; doesn't use flowery words or phrases
• Very punctual about finishing assignments

Taking Directions:

• Follows directions explicitly
• Very formal in following commands
• However, enjoys giving directions and commands more than taking them
• Directions need to be logical and practical. If not, this person will question them

Task Orientation:

• Has a need for structure
• Completes all tasks thoroughly and punctually
• Will do simple, arduous tasks or assignments until they are complete.
• A stick-to-it kind of person
• Proceeds logically and linearly with all assignments
• Doesn't waste a moment, extremely efficient

Sales and Marketing:

• A real closer
• Very clear and persistent in meeting objections
• Efficient and fast; doesn't waste a moment (close, then on to the next)
• Thorough and logical in presentation

Leadership:

• A natural leader; people just feel it
• Commands respect and obedience immediately; can be hard-nosed and blunt if needed
• Structures everything so following directions and orders is simple and efficient
• An achiever of the highest level
• Always moving up the ranks quickly and energetically
• Not afraid of doing whatever is needed to accomplish the assignment
• If the situation demands it, will sacrifice a few for the success of the whole

Supervising This Applicant:

• Provide structure and clear directions/assignment
• Do not be afraid to criticize; these individuals thrive on it
• Always remind them why they should be keeping their eyes on the big picture (vision)
• Give them every opportunity to advance after being very successful
• Be aware of their possible penchants for impatience, callousness, and grudges; help them to understand and to regulate these behaviors under specific conditions
• Appreciate their natural leadership and use it to your advantage

Your vacation begins the moment you decide to take a trip. While others might dream about a trip, you begin a careful analysis of all the facts you need to make an informed decision about your vacation destination and itinerary. Although you like to weigh all the details, you don't want to get bogged down in the process for too long. You want to arrive at your decision quickly. You won't waste too much time in finalizing your plans, as your nature is a wonderful blend of both doer and thinker. You know how to think, plan, and do what is needed to ensure success.

You schedule your vacation for a time that fits your busy work schedule. With all of the latest advancements in communications, gathering detailed travel information is quick. Once you have satisfactory information, you compile a list of places to eat, stay, and visit as well as the best way to get there and back safely on your trip. You will want to find a good travel book to help in your preparations.

You thrive on challenges and are a natural competitor, so make sure your favorite sporting activities are available on your vacation. You would be happy to spend a day golfing, boating, hiking, or walking through the woods. Even a day of exotic sight seeing will keep your legs moving and your juices flowing. You will also want time to exercise your brain, so you might want to consider destinations with historical landmarks or awesome displays of nature. Make sure that your vacation takes into account your hobbies and special interests and provides the means to enjoy those activities. Destinations like the Grand Canyon, the Pacific Northwest, and London will appeal to your sense of historical significance and need for active exploration.

There is a part of you that likes to be in control of all the details of your life and vacation. If you find a particular vacation spot that you enjoy, you will visit it again knowing you can look forward to a vacation without worrying about any unforeseen problems. You don't deviate from the tried and true. This is because you prefer knowing what you are getting yourself into. That is one reason why you work hard and meticulously in making your plans.

Typically you choose clean, well-run establishments. You’ll make sure they provide room service, a concierge, or any other amenities that appeal to you. Once there, you like to jump into action and get going. Lounging around a pool for days on end is not your idea of fun. Swimming laps before an adventurous day of activity is more your speed. You might like a hotel room that is equipped with a high-speed Internet connection so you can put your mind to rest each evening by checking on things at work or finding directions for the next day's itinerary.

It is important to remember that you are a go-getter who is naturally systematic, intelligent and articulate. You like to describe yourself as logical, practical and determined. This applies to your vacation needs and should be taken into consideration when planning any trip. You like meeting deadlines and enjoy challenges of all kinds. When all is said and done, you will be able to enjoy your vacation, knowing you got the right deal and made the correct choice for your own needs based upon all the facts.

Here are some vacation ideas that would appeal to you:

• A visit to historically significant cities, such as Williamsburg, St. Augustine, or Boston.
• Conventions showcasing your favorite hobbies or special interests
• Renting a condo for skiing in Colorado or surfing in Hawaii
• Famous annual events, like Mardi Gras, Carnival, or the Running of the Bulls in Pamplona.
• A trip to a place like Puerto Rico, where you can gamble, shop, and walk the historic streets.

Take me home

1. Do you smoke?

Only from my ears when extra-angry.

2. Are you more likely to be caught humming, whistling or singing to yourself?

Whistling, but I hum and sing a lot too.

3. Have you ever been to New Orleans?

Last month was the first time. It might be my last time too; it was depressing.

4. When is the last time you saw the sun rise?

Probably sometime during the winter. I haven't been getting up very early this summer.

5. Can you swim?

This seems to be the question of the week: NO. I can't.

Feast One-Hundred & Four

Appetizer
What's the funniest dream you can remember having?

I have bizarre dreams all the time. I can't remember anything outstanding right now.

Soup
If you were a dog, what breed would you be, and why?

I'd probably be a pointer. I've already got the requisite nose, and it seems like the right name for a librarian.

I'd like to be a German shepherd though: capable of both lovingkindness and ruthless loyalty.

Salad
Continue this sentence: "I get confused when..."

...people do nonsensical things. I'm confused a great deal of the day most days.

Main Course
Name two things that need to be done, but you are procrastinating in completing.

I need to continue to work on Mom & Dad's boxes of paperwork.
I need to work on scrapbooking the past couple of years of my life.

Dessert
When was the last time you tried something new, and what was it?

The house we're staying in this week is new to us. It's wonderful.
The place Beast and I stayed last week, the town in which we stayed, the restaurants in which we ate = all new to us, all very good. We also had Dom Perignon last week, the first time for me: it was fabulous.
I try new things all the time because I'm easily bored

.

Sweet Tooth

1. How often do you indulge in something sweet?

Too often; just ask my teeth! I'm actually eating Skittles right now...for lunch.

2. What is your favorite kind of sweet food/beverage?

Pure sugar. I'm not much of a chocolate eater, but I do like sugar. I don't drink sugary soda though; for some reason that gives me a terribly upset stomach.

I shared an absolutely humongous slice of "wedding cake" at the restaurant last night after dinner--with three other people. It was delish.

3. Do you have a preferred sweetener (artificial or natural)?

No. I am lucky: I can eat aspartame and saccharin with no side effects.

4. Chocolate or fruity?

Fruity.

5. What is the sweetest thing anyone has done for you?

Lots of people have done very sweet things for me. I am grateful to all of them for the things they've done: meals to listening ears to keeping quiet when I say/do ridiculously stupid things.

from Lisa...my supplier

1. Do you sleep with your closet doors open or closed?

Beast's closet is almost always closed, cuz he's tidy. Mine is almost always open, cuz I'm a slob (and because that's where the dirty laundry hampers, and a furnace vent, are). The bathroom door is usually open too. I think I'd rather have the closet doors closed, but I don't care enough to knock myself out.

I would however prefer to have the bedroom door closed tight, which it NEVER is, and that annoys me.

2. Do you ever take the shampoos and soaps from hotel rooms?

If I don't use them, I take them. I paid for 'em. Mostly they go in a plastic bag where I collect them and eventually take them to the homeless-shelter coordinator in our community to give out. I'd recommend this to others who stay in hotel rooms, by the way. Those containers are the perfect size for people who carry everything they own on their backs.

3. Have you ever had sex in a hotel room?

To paraphrase Lisa, yes. I'm 42, and married with a child! OK, he's 13 now, but when he was little--and never slept--hotel rooms, vacations without him, were the only safe place!

The real question is how many times I've listened to other people having sex in their hotel room!

4. Have you ever stolen a street sign before?

Nope. What's the point?

5. Do you use Post-It Notes?

Yup. I bought a package from Sam's Club about 5 years ago. They are now mostly gone. If you aren't familiar with Sam's, that means we've gone through about 10,000 post-its in 5 years.

6. Do you cut out coupons but then never use them?

I used to compulsively cut coupons while I was in college and for about 10 years after. Then I realized that I never used them, and it was taking me hours to organize them. I haven't looked at the coupon part of the paper in years. They're all for processed stuff anyway. It's pretty rare to have anything healthy on a coupon.

7. Would you rather be attacked by a big bear or a swarm of bees?

I've developed a rather major phobia of bears. I know I'm not allergic to bees, so I'll go that way.

8. Do you always smile for pictures?

If I know the picture is being taken.

9. What is your biggest pet peeve?

Stupid drivers. I wish someone would figure out why people who are totally fine when they're not near a car become insane behind the wheel.

11. Do you sleep with your sheets tucked in or out?

I like them tucked in tight. Beast likes them completely untucked. sigh...

13. Have you ever peed in the woods?

The cabin we owned when I was a kid had (erhm) faulty (erhm) plumbing. For a awhile we had to use the woods. Then for awhile we could use the plumbing, but it could only be flushed once a day.

This is why I won't go camping.

14. Do you ever jump up and down to make your privates bounce?

Clearly this is aimed at boys. Women's privates don't bounce, except on top, and that doesn't feel all that fabulous (nor is it good for the shoulder and chest muscles).

15. Do you chew your pens and pencils?

I used to chew on them, when I was really young. I will confess to holding them in my mouth when my hands are full.

16. What's your favorite animal and why?

I like wolves. I like dogs. (Sense a theme?) And I like monkeys.

17. Do you like popcorn from those big tins?

I'll eat it when it's first opened, but after about a day it tastes stale.

18. Could you marry the person you are with now?

Too late: I already did.

19. What is your "Song of the week"?

I haven't been around much music this week, but the girls are singing the songs from Grease incessantly (all seven lines that they remember of each). It's pretty funny.

20. Is it okay for guys to wear pink?

My dad did. Beast will, if it's not pale pink. Sure.

The only caveat is that if you put a baby in pink, everyone, EVERYone, will assume it's a girl. That can get annoying.

21. Do you still watch cartoons?

I don't pick them out to watch, but if Sparky's watching in the same room as me, I'll glance at them. I used to enjoy The Wild Thornberries, but Sparky stopped watching that a long time ago.

23. Where would you bury hidden treasure if you had some?

Probably at the bank. I'm not nuts!

24. What do you drink with dinner?

If it's a sit-down-together-at-at-the-table dinner, I'll have milk. If it's more of a free-for-all, water or pop. If we're out at a restaurant where I can, I'll have a drink...unless I'm driving home.

25. What do you dip a chicken nugget in?

Chicken nuggets from McDonald's? Nothing, and mostly because I won't eat them.
Chicken tenders from a real restaurant? Ranch dressing. Or nothing.

26. What is your favorite food/cuisine?

I like Italian and Mexican and Chinese and Indian.

27. What movies could you watch over and over and still love?

Heathers, RHPS. Most any musical. I especially like Fiddler on the Roof.

28. Were you a boy/girl scout?

I was a Girl Scout for 2 or 3 years.

29. Would you pose nude or strip for a magazine?

Not at this stage of the game.

30. When was the last time you wrote a letter to someone on paper?

I am doing that this week so that I can send Sparky's school photos to family members.

31. Favorite kind of sandwich?

For nostalgia's sake, white bread and margarine with flat cheese and potato chips.

32. Best thing to eat for breakfast?

I'm feeling like an omelet today. Normally, bagel and cream cheese.

33. What is your usual bedtime?

In bed by 10 or so, asleep by 11.

35. When you were a kid what did you dress up as for Halloween?

I was a clown one year. I remember a rabbit costume. The rest I can't remember.

36. Do you read the newspaper?

I read the whole week's worth of the local one on the weekend, and I read the Dear Abby et al. parts of Beast's paper when he's finished with his paper.

37. How many languages can you speak?

Aside from English, I speak some Spanish (but I understand more) and I can read very basic Russian, Greek and Italian.

38. Do you have any magazine subscriptions?

I get Ms., Entertainment Weekly, whatever the AAA magazine is called now, and American Libraries at home. I used to get Real Simple, and I'll be asking for a subscription to that for Christmas this year.

39. Are you in love?

Yes.

40. Which are better: Lego or Lincoln Logs?

The old Lincoln Logs.

41. Red wine or white wine?

White.

42. Are you stubborn?

Oh yeah.

43. Is this relationship lasting, or just a summer fling?

Lasting

44. Watch a soap opera?

Not since my roommate watched Days of Our Lives in college.

45. Sing in the car?

Yep. I'm fully capable of embarrassing myself completely this way.

46. Dance in the shower?

Yeah, as if. I can fall down when conditions are very safe; why would I make life difficult on purpose!?

47. Dance in the car?

Er...yeah. See #45.

48. Ever used a gun?

Not a real one, just a cap pistol.

49. Last time you got a portrait taken by a photographer?

When I got my passport updated a couple of years ago. Or perhaps it was the family photo for the church directory. It was about the same time.

50. Are musicals cheesy?

Yes, but I love them.

51. Is Christmas stressful?

Yes. There have been a few years that I just wanted to cancel the whole thing.

52. Ever eat a pierogi?

Yes. Here's a link. Thank you, Milwaukee!

53. Favorite type of fruit pie?

I will eat any kind of fruit pie except rhubarb (if that's a fruit). I love pie.

54. Occupations you wanted to be when you were a kid?

Briefly, a teacher. Also a grocery checker. A librarian probably figured in there somewhere.

55. Do you believe in ghosts?

I don't disbelieve in them, but I've never really seen/heard one.

56. Ever have a deja-vu feeling?

Yes, but you know...not for awhile...

57. Take a vitamin daily?

Yes.

58. Wear slippers?

Sometimes. When I remember, and when my feet are cold.

59. Wear a bath robe?

Only when I've forgotten something I need for a shower or bath and the bedroom door is open, or when I need to run downstairs for whatever I forgot. And, very occasionally, I'll wear a robe in the winter when it's very cold--over my jammies.

60. What do you wear to bed?

Pajamas.

61. First concert?

The Beach Boys, after a baseball game. First real concert: Paul Young.

62.Wal-Mart, Target or K-Mart?

Target.

63. Nike or Adidas?

No, my question is "What's on sale?" I don't even know what brand I bought last weekend.

64. Fritos or Cheetos?

Mmmmm, Cheetos......my downfall.

65. Corn nuts or sunflowers seeds?

I love corn nuts, but my teeth can't handle them anymore. I associate sunflower seeds with my sister too strongly to enjoy them nowadays. So, neither.

66. Have you ever chosen a boy/girl over a friend?

I'm not sure. I probably did spend more time with Beast in college, at times, than I did with friends. But I was fortunate enough to have understanding friends.

67. Ever take dance lessons?

I would like to. I would have liked to as a child, too.

68. Is there a profession that you picture your perfect future spouse?

I don't understand the question. I'm not marrying a profession.

69. Can you curl your tongue?

No. I didn't get that particular genetic trait.

70. Ever won a spelling bee?

Yup.

71. Have you ever cried because you were so happy?

Yes.

72. Own any record albums?

Of course. Probably about 75. They are carefully stored.

73. Own a record player?

Yes. Not sure why we bothered to hook it up when we moved, since we never unpacked the records.

74. Regularly burn incense?

I have some. Beast doesn't like it, so I don't burn it when he's around, and I usually forget anyway.

75. Ever been in love?

Yes.

76. Who would you like to see in concert?

U2 (again), Nicole C. Mullens, Melissa Etheridge, Toby Mac, Billy Joel.

77. Hot tea or iced tea?

Iced in the summer hot in the winter. But I don't make it very often.

78. Tea or coffee?

I don't drink coffee. So, tea.

79. Favorite kind of cookie?

Oatmeal raisin. Yummmmm.
I also like iced sugar cookies.

80. Can you swim well?

I can't swim at all.

81. Can you hold your breath w/o manually holding your nose?

Uhhh, yeah...?

82. Are you patient?

That's a question for the kids I'm yelling at constantly this morning.
No. But more than I used to be.

83. DJ or band, at a wedding?

Well, we had a DJ, a very good friend, at ours. If the band was a good band, and was able to cover some standards, I wouldn't mind a band either.

84. Ever won a contest?

I'm glad to say that in 42 years, I have indeed won at least one contest.

85. Ever have plastic surgery?

No. The only reason I'd have it is for reconstruction after an accident or the like.

86. Which are better black or green oives?

Yuck.
I have no idea.

87. Can you knit or crochet?

I can knit, but I don't do it often.

88. Best room for a fireplace?

Any room, except perhaps a bathroom.

89. What's the best way to show affection?

I'm following Lisa here: actions.

90. Is it true the best way to a man's heart is his stomach?

It doesn't hurt, but I suspect that may be aiming about 10 inches too high.
NOT that I'm a cynic, of course.

91. Which one can't you live without cell phone or car?

Car. I don't use my cell phone all that often, and I know how to use a pay phone if it comes down to making a phone call. It would be a huge hassle to give up my car though, since there's no real public transportation in my area.

92. Toothbrush or shower?

Am I giving one of these up, too?! Ish.
I won't give up my toothbrush, and I like baths better anyway.

93. Do you have any regrets?

It is impossible to reach ones fifth decade without regrets.

95. Did you do good (sic) in high school?

Well, I certainly learned more in English class than the author of the survey!
I did quite well in school, all the way through. It's life I struggle with.

96. Do you still talk to people from high school?

Occasionally. I have email and street addresses for about 5 of my good high school friends.

97. Have you ever been betrayed by a friend?

Of course. And I'm sure the obverse is true, too.

I started this at 9:06. It's now 10:25. Be warned!

You Are Best Described By...

Sleep by Salvador Dali

Well, I guess I asked for that one, didn't I?

(belated--my fault)

1. What's your favorite beverage?

Diet Dr. Pepper, vodka tonic, Long Island Iced Tea, chardonnay, water. Depends on the moment.

2. Have you ever been surfing? If so, how did you like it?

Uhhhh, no. Can't swim. Surfing would therefore seem slightly foolhardy.

3. What do you like to put on a hot dog?

Catsup and mustard and onions. Or cheese and onions.

4. Who's your favorite Australian?

Cathy Freeman.

Internet Randomness

1. How much email do you get on an average day? How much of it is spam?

At work: 20-50 emails (I'm on four listserves, so that causes a lot of email).
At home: 1 or 2, on a busy day.
At Gmail (three accounts): Anywhere from 15 to 50 (see next question).

2. Can you imagine life without the internet? What kind of life did you lead before the internet became an everyday thing? Did it change much afterwards?

I've been online for over 15 years. I can't even remember life before computer access to people across the world! I do remember when we got Internet capability at the library: just about 10 years ago. We were still neophytes, so I searched for random stuff all the time while sitting at the Reference Desk.

Things have changed a lot. Since we got this laptop, I'm rarly 'unplugged.'

3. What year did you start tinkering around on the internet? What did you do to pass the time? Do you still do it? Why/why not?

Oops, sorry: got there ahead of this question! I really started messing about the internet itself about 1996 as described above. We had net access at home before that, through Prodigy and then AOL (for about 2 years--I still loathe AOL). On Prodigy, I was a member of several bulletin boards. Once we got the internet, I discovered chat rooms and online gaming; went through quite a little addiction phase. I met lots of fun people and a few scary ones too.

Blogging is very similar in 'feel' to the Prodigy boards. You find people of like minds through serendipity and similar interests.

Bonus Question for Comments: Did you ever do anything online-community oriented? What was it? Do you still do it?

Oops, got there ahead of time again! Yes, I did: I was heavily involved with a Star Trek fan group called Ten-Forward. I faded away once Sparky arrived on the scene (too busy). I look back in fondness, but I have virtually nothing in common with anyone there anymore. It's a bit like high school that way. ;-)

Booking Through Thursday

1. Have you read Lord of the Rings?
   Nope.


2. If so, how many times have you read it? Just once? Or so many you can't count?
   N/A


3. If not, why not? Not your cup of tea?
   I just read The Hobbit about 2 years ago. I'm just not into this kind of story. It's too complicated, and frankly all this adulation kinda turns me off. It's the same reason, really, I'm not interested in Jane Austen: too many people telling me "I should" read it. I don't respond well to being told what to do in areas I can completely control.
   
   So, how often do Jane Austen and J.R.R. Tolkien get compared to one another?


4. And, while we're on the subject, did you see the Oscar-winning movie(s)? What did you think?
   I saw the first movie. As we left the theater, Beast told me if I was freaked out with the battle scenes in this one, I should skip the others. I trust him, so I haven't watched the others. Beast has; he's also read the books a few times.
   
   I have seen an awful lot of the "Making of..." stuff, though, so I know a lot about how stuff was filmed and what it looked like in small chunks.

::You Can't Always Get What You Want:: -- The Rolling Stones

Onesome: You can't always get what you want- Have you ever wanted something really badly and had it fall through, only to look back later and realize that things ended up better for it?

That describes some of my dating life!
And the majority of high school: I wanna be popular (thank God I wasn't!). I wanna have a different family (there were worse problems out there!). etc. etc.

Twosome: But if you try sometimes- Is there anything you you've ever wanted so badly that you were willing to give up on other things while you tried to get/save up for the one big thing?

I do this all the time. It's second nature, so I can't even think of the last time, or even a good example.

Threesome: Well you just might find you get what you need- Most of us have been at spots in our lives where what we want and what we need are not always the same thing. Money's tight and that new toy you want isn't going to happen because you need to get the brakes on the car repaired or you need textbooks for school. What have you really, really wanted, but you had to give up because of practicality? And did you ever figure out how to have both the want and the need?

I drove a minivan for about 5 years, hating virtually every second of it. Eventually, we were able to sell it and buy a (used) truck, which I love. It has been a joy to have: not particularly practical, but fun and useful.

I also hated the house we lived in for 9 years, and after all that waiting, we are finally in a house we adore. Nine years of living with petty annoyance makes me hyper-aware of how lucky we are to live where we do now.

Right now, I'm in the throes of really really wanting a Harley. I can't see a way to manage it, and realistically it makes no sense.

"borrowed" from Shelly

1. Assisted living or nursing home?

But, see, they are two different things. Assisted living--where my mom is now--is when you can still get around and do basic self-care, and be somewhat independent. Nursing homes--where my mom will be by Christmas, I think--is when you can't do anything much for yourself and must rely on nurses and caregivers for everything.

Of course, I'd rather be in assisted living for as long as possible. Who wouldn't? Who wants lose independence and dignity all at once?

2. What is your least favorite clinic to go to?

I don't understand this question. For general stuff, we go to a clinic which has GPs, Pediatricians, and Ob/Gyns. I'm not a huge fan of the office staff at this clinic. I see an eye doctor in a completely separate town. I see a dentist somewhere else. My allergist is also a stand-alone. I also had an endocrinologist I had to see for a few years who was an hour away; that sucked.

The visit I'm dreading the most right now is the one to the dentist next month. I will be needing (some more) major dental work.

3. If you won the lottery, which loan would you pay off first?

The only outstanding loan we currently have is our mortgage. That would rock if we could pay it off 25 years early!

4. What do you want to be when your kids grow up?

A grandma. But not for about 15 years or so. I can wait...as long as friends and relatives continue to supply the 'baby-holding' need!

5. Do you still remember who your first grade teacher was?

Miss Campbell. I even have a picture of her in one of my scrapbooks. It's amusing; she's got the Official Early 70s Hairdo: teased bouffant with bangs (think Marlo Thomas in "That Girl").

6. How many years has it been since you graduated?

From what? From junior high school: 27. From high school: 24. From college: 20. From grad school: 18-1/2. From the school of life: still matriculating.

7. How many hours of sleep (including naps) do you need each day?I need about 7. I usually get between 5 and 8. This week--on vacation--I'm averaging 7, I think, so that's good. 8. Sex: weekly, monthly, or annually?

Weekly.

9. X-lax or Metamucil?

Ex-Lax is a little strong for me. I don't really need either most of the time, and Metamucil is totally gross!

10. Happiness is a warm puppy. Yes, I really think so.

July 18

1. What are two ways you find relief from the summer heat? Explain:

A/C. I actually like being warm, but then it's not unbearably warm that often where I live. On the other hand, I need A/C to survive allergy season.

2. Is it generally warmer or cooler where you live this summer? Explain:

Compared to what? It's the usual mid-80s to mid-90s with lots of humidity like every summer. It's wetter this year than it was last summer, which is good for crops and the climate here.

3. On a hot summer day, would you rather go to the pool or to the mall (air-conditioned)? Explain:

Mall. Can't swim. If I go with a friend, it's not so bad at the pool.

4. If you could be on vacation this week, would part of your decision-making be based on the weather? Explain:

There are six kids here: weather is critical in planning. It has rained all night so we'll be doing a movie afternoon instead of a pool or strolling the shops on Main Street kind of day.

5. Name two cities you believe have the best weather and two cities with the worst weather year-round:

Good weather: San Diego, Colorado Springs.
Bad weather: New Orleans, Milwaukee.

You Are 28% Brutally Honest

Honesty is nice, but only when it's convenient. You rather be nice than honest. You figure it's important to be honest about the big stuff, but little lies never hurt anyone!

I think the key here is "Brutal." I'm pretty honest, but I don't generally set out to hurt people's feelings or make waves. On the other hand, I say things I shouldn't way too often.

from Lisa

Tell me about your home. 5 things you like and 5 things you would like to change.

Likes:

Large bathtub in the master suite
Big kitchen with too many cupboards
Lots of storage areas
Fireplace in the living room
Really big yard

Dislikes:

The pyromaniacal neighbors
It's a long way to any store
The wind; it's very...windy
The neighborhood assocation is apparently smoking crack
I'd prefer the garage doors were on the side of the house, not the front, but that's not going to happen....

Are you more...

01) Banjo for the fun, danceable sound or violin for the soulful, spirit-lifting sound?
Depends on what my purpose is. I actually prefer the viola or cello to the violin, but I like me a good fiddle, too. Not an enormous banjo fanatic, but I don't hate them either. I always think of the theme from "Deliverance" when I hear a banjo, though...
02) Bus/subway for cheapness and ecological responsibility or cab for door to door convenience?
Around home, we don't have local bus service that's worth much. I like riding buses/trains/subways, though, as a rule. Don't mind cabs in the city for a short visit, though. I feel so grown up when I hail one. :-)
03) Paper grocery bags for the capacity and biodegradableness or plastic grocery bags for the convenience and reusability?
I usually don't get the option of choosing, but I prefer paper. Plastic grocery bags seem to multiply like rabbits somehow.
04) Liking fruit that you peel (bananas, oranges, etc.) or fruit that you don't peel (apples, pears, etc.)?
No-peel; immediate gratification.
05) Expensive 3-ply kleenex or discount 2-ply kleenex?
I use brand name tissue because it doesn't hurt my nose when I have a cold, and because the cheap stuff scratches my glasses when I use it to clean them.
06) Super soft toilet paper to be cushy on your widdle bum or rough, no-nonsense toilet paper to be sure to get your dirty asshole clean?
I prefer Scott tissue, which tends to be a little rough, but is the "bargan buy." Others in my house prefer Charmin because of its softness. We've compromised on a brand that is less expensive but softer.
07) Watching fake wrestling (WWE, for example) for the kitchy drama or watching real fighting (boxing, UFC, etc.) for the realness?
Yuck. I'll be out taking a walk or a nap or ANYthing else but this!
08) Coy about telling people what you want when asked ("Oh I don't need anything.") or upfront about telling people what you want when asked ("I would LOVE a new watch.")?
If we're talking about birthday/Christmas, I usually make a list. Otherwise, I get the weirdest shit from Beast! On the other hand, I sometimes still do get weird shit, and sometimes I can't think of anything to put on a list.
09) Believing NASA is amazing for inventing the Space Pen (works in no gravity) or believing NASA is stupid for not doing like the Russians who just use pencils? What's wrong with mechanical pencils??
10) A Spanky fan or an Alfalfa fan?
'Panky, tho my hair occasionally resembles Alfalfa's. Otay?

#41

1. Have you ever called in sick to have sex?
Hmmm, no, but I could see doing that....
2. Do you feel "entitled" to sex when you are in a relationship?
Not entitled. But certainly that's part of the whole package.
3. Have you ever dated/married purely for money?
I seem to have done this exact opposite all my life.
4. Have you ever, of your own free will, had sex with someone you didn't really want to? Why?
Nope.
5. Name three words that:
a) get you excited
b) make you squirm
c) make you laugh
I honestly can't do this: I'm already giggling too hard to think.

Bonus (as in optional): Have you ever had sex with a relative (cousin, inlaw...)?
Ugh--not my family.

from Lisa

1. What year was it?

I graduated in 1982. Oh God, it's long time ago!

2. What were your three favorite bands?

Styx, Bee Gees, and Bob Seger (do you know how hard this was to answer?!).

3. What was your favorite outfit?

Jeans, buttoned shirt, sneakers. Not much has changed. I recall wearing skirts more often, and I had saddle shoes. Long story there....really long...really embarrassing to mention....so I won't. But it makes me smile.

4. What was up with your hair?

In my senior picture, I have a "Lady Di" haircut. Remember those? I think I grew my hair out over the course of the year, but I don't remember exactly.

5. Who were your best friends?

Laura, Beth, Annie, Teri, Michelle, Ann. And Warren, I guess, though that was mostly about having a huge crush on him....

6. What did you do after school?

Homework. I had been working, but I think I stopped before senior year--yeah, that was the Drama of Junior Year, all tied up with my dad's heart attack while Mom was overseas--so I don't know what I was doing with my time. Watching TV, probably.

7. Did you take the bus?

I only rode a school bus on field trips. I had friends with cars, occasionally parents (not mine!) drove me to school, and I walked. My parents built our house in the perfect confluence between grade school, junior high, and high schools: no more than a 15-minute walk to any of them. No excuse to need a ride, just laziness!

8. Who did you have a crush on?

Who didn't I?? Warren, mentioned above. I was still dating, off and on, the guy I'd been dating my sophomore and junior year...I think. Ron M. still flickered through my consciousness a lot. John F., bigtime. It's still a little freaky for me to talk to John. I had gone to school with a lot of my classmates for 12 years; they weren't doing a lot for me by this time!

9. Did you fight with your parents?

Just my mom. Though I think we'd reached a sort of entente/detente with each other for the most part by this time.

10. Who did you have a CELEBRITY crush on?

I was crushing on lots of people, and I can't remember specific years/specific people, so this is just a conglomeration of those I remember: Barry Gibb, Erik Estrada, Larry Wilcox, Tom Wopat, loads of others I can't remember.

11. Did you smoke cigarettes?

Nope.

How interesting that there's no question that says "Did you drink?" or "Did you do drugs?"

12. Did you lug all of your books around in your backpack all day because you were too nervous to find your locker?

Nervous? As a senior? No. Somehow I made it down to the bandroom at least three times a day.

13. Did you have a 'clique'?

I guess, though we thought we were The Unpopular Ones: the brainy-geeky-Band-kids.

14. Did you have "The Max" like Zach, Kelly and Slater?

There were no Zachs or Slaters at my high school and most of the Kellys were girls. (i.e., I have no idea what this means)

15. Admit it, were you popular?

In the big picture, no, but I had a fair-sized circle of good friends.

16. Who did you want to be just like?

Lisa said, "No one at my school." Fair answer. I just wanted to GET OUT. I was marking time till I LEFT for college!

17. What did you want to be when you grew up?

Anything but living with my parents. I had no idea at all, and frankly the guidance counselors weren't very helpful: "Your scores show that you are relatively equal across all the areas of interest." Fuck; no help there.

18. Where did you think you'd be at the age you are now?

I never thought I'd ever be 42. I couldn't really see past 26 or 27. My sister was 38 when I was in high school and she was SO OLD.

Random Joy

1. How much do the things you’re willing to discuss with your friends vary from things you’d discuss with a romantic partner? Which tends to be the closer relationship intellectually?

Wow, what a great question!

There are some things I don't bother discussing with Beast, just because I'd have to explain too much and it's not worth it sometimes. It's not a matter of "hiding" things, but does he really need to have the back-story of (for instance) cramps? OK, the girls reading this are going, "Ugh, yeah." The guys are going, "Oh, those kind of cramps. What's the big deal?"

I couldn't be married, or date, someone I couldn't have a good intellectual discussion with. Beast and I had a doozy yesterday in the car about the first two questions in last weekend's Saturday Six.

But, I also have good friends with whom I've had some really deep discussions of anything from "why guys are stupid" (when they've been having relationship problems) to "why I've stopped being involved with my church" (when we've had interpersonal problems at church) to "what color shirt goes best with this skirt" (yes, that can be intellectual!).

2. When shopping, do you believe that generally things that cost more are of better quality?

Sometimes. Then again, sometimes emphatically NOT. I'm cheap (ask the people with whom I shop!), so I tend to go for the less-expensive option, unless I've been burned on it once before.

3. How old were you when you first moved out of your parents' house? Or if you haven't yet, at what age could you see yourself moving out for the first time?

I never know how to answer this. Officially, I'd say when I got married. But really, I went to college at 18 over a thousand miles away from home. I came home and lived with my parents for two summers, but the summer between junior and senior years I stayed on campus and worked. After graduating, I went home for a few weeks, packed up a few more things that were still in my room, attended a bridal shower, and then flew back to my college town where I got married.

I stopped feeling connected to my parents' house as "home" only when they sold the house 12 years ago.

4. Do you think that voting is important? Why or why not?

Well, yeah. If you don't vote, you don't have any right to bitch about those in elected office. If you feel strongly that there's "no one to vote for" or "it doesn't matter," you are effectively saying, "Go ahead and treat me like a child because I can't be bothered to grow up and understand the issues of the world around me."

Not that I have strong opinions about this or anything.

5. Do you keep a dream journal?

Not as such. When I have a really strange dream, I sometimes post about it. I should keep better track; some of them are really strange dreams!

What A Way To Make A Living

If you did not work (or if you don't) how much TV would you/do you watch during the course of the day?

When I'm not working, I watch entirely too much TV. Now, with the additional lure of HBO and DVDs, I'd be glued to it.
If I ever stop working, I'll have to sell the TV. :-)

How long have you held your current job and how does it rate against your former jobs as far as overall happiness?

I started working at this library 10 1/2 years ago. I've been the cataloger for 3 1/2 years. It's the best workplace I've ever had, hands-down.

If you had to describe the thing done by someone at work that drives you the craziest, what would you say?

Talking while I'm trying to work: I work in a cube in a room that serves as the "cool-off" area for the entire building. The staff room is far away, so staff comes into the work room to discuss patrons and policy, and to gossip. It drives me absolutely nuts. Hence, headphones and Yahoo! Music or Pandora.

If you could have someone at your current place of employment fired, would you do so?

I wouldn't do this. Most people do enough on their own to screw themselves into this situation. I try very hard not the comment on other people unless specifically asked, and then I try very hard to be tactful in response.
I'm fortunate to have a good boss whose major flaw is kindheartedness, but she's not stupid. There is one individual who is doing his level best (unintentionally) to get himself fired; I don't need to help him along at all. Everyone else...hey, I've worked in environments where the other shoe could drop at any time and it's not really conducive to good morale.

Do you work a typical "9 to 5" Monday through Friday work schedule?

I work 7:30 or 8 until 4ish on Tuesday & Wednesday. Thursday I'm there 12-9. I work every other Friday or Saturday (one week Fri., the next week Sat.) 9-5ish. I also pull Sunday duty about every 8 weeks, 1-4 p.m.
So, no. :-)

Questions for Week Number Twenty-Seven:

Among all the people you know, who is the most at ease with their own mortality?

I can't think of anyone I currently know, but my dad was really practical and sensible in talking to us all about his death beforehand. It never freaked me out, at least.

If you were casting a western, what actor would you pick to be the star?
I'm going to go off the normal "western star" page and say George Clooney. I just wonder a) if he'd do it, and b) what he'd look like in a cowboy hat.
Having said that, for less of a stunt-casting thing, I'd ask for Brad Pitt. I already know he looks gooo-ooood in a cowboy hat: