Football

You Are an Extra Point

You are reliable, steady, and a good team player. You may not take risks to get glory, but you always deliver on what you promise. When it comes to what you're good at, you know your stuff. You have years of practice to thank for that. Your success rate is unmatched. If you say you're good at something, it's likely you're the best.

What Football Scoring Method Are You?

OK then. I guess this fits. Sorta.

RevGals Friday Five

(Link in blogroll)
HGTV Edition

Greetings all!

As some of you may know I am in the midst of my first home purchase. It is a new-build and so some of the fun was picking out upgrades and major decor items to my taste rather than walking into a previously owned home that needed to be upgraded room by room (pink and teal tiles in the bathroom, anyone?). As much as decorating is not my thing, I did try to embrace the moment because just how many times do you get to have a do-over on kitchen cabinets/floors/countertops?

And so, my questions to you this fine Friday involve your home past, present or future...

1) If you could, what room in the place you are currently living would you redo first?

The only rooms we haven't done are the bathrooms, so that's next. I know what I want, it's just getting it done.

2) What is the most hideous feature/color/decor item you have ever seen in a home?

We looked at a house that had pepto-pink walls throughout and closets that were LITERALLY stuff to bulging. It was horrendous. Also, nudes of family members, no matter how artistically done, no matter how beautiful they are, are generally a bad idea when showing your house for sale. And so many more weird things...maybe the blood we found...but that's another story.

3) What feature do you most covet? Do you have it? If not, is it within reach?

I want a hot tub. It's ridiculous, but there ya go.

4) Your kitchen - love it or hate it? Why?

My kitchen rocks the western world!!

5) Here is $10,000 and you HAVE to spend it on the place you are living now. What do you do?

Hot tub and landscaping, in that order.

BONUS: Why do you think there was such a surplus of ugly bathroom tile colors showcased in all homes built from the 1950's right through the early 80's?

Tastes change. We had pink and chocolate brown plastic tile in our bathroom when I was growing up--bathroom installed in the 40s. I think white on white is the only safe decor for bathrooms, but it's pretty sterile and cold. The other thing is that bathrooms are (usually) pretty small, so any big decorating is overwhelming fairly quickly. We had a duck wallpaper border in the powder room in our last house that made. me. want. to. kill. people. within a year of moving in. No tile, just that border. ;-) (I like ducks, but...not those)

Food 4 Thought Friday

(Link in blogroll)

Breakfast
What is the longest you have gone without sleep?

Probably close to 48 hours, but I don't remember the circumstances exactly.

Lunch
If you don't live alone, do you think you would be able to, and if you do live alone, do you enjoy it? Why?

I could, pretty much, be fine on my own, and right now I think I would enjoy it a great deal. Not that I'm all that annoyed with my family, but I'm not in a pleasant place myself.

Dinner
Would you rather give a public speech or bungee jump?

I've done one of these, so let's just stick with the known quantity and make a speech. It would not be 47 minutes long and extemporaneous, however.

Midnight Snack
Have you ever rode on a train?

I have ridden on many of them.

Recipe for the Week (instead of your recipe for life, what is it just for this week?)

One More Day:

80s

You Are "Time After Time"

If you were transported back to the 80s, your life would be all about reflecting. You're a serious, earnest person - and you couldn't help but think a lot about how things were back then. You'd spend a lot of your time writing, researching, and learning. You would either become a social anthropologist - or a crazy guru with a knack for predicting the future.

What's Your 80s Karaoke Song?

Well, I was in school for half the decade the first time around, so this wouldn't be a change. It would be interesting to go back, though. Weird, but interesting.

Friday 5

(Link in blogroll)
Super Friday

1. In American football, a fumble occurs when the player carrying the ball drops it, often resulting in a great advantage for the other team. What have you recently fumbled in your own life?

My extended family. It's actually more like I've left the field and forfeited the game entirely.

2. In American football, you have thrown an interception when someone from the other team catches the ball you meant for your teammate. Who’s often an interceptor of something you intend for someone else?

CT at work. She intercepts any good commentary and hijacks it into her own personal rant. Actually, Schedule Nazi is good at this too. In fact, she's better, come to think of it. CT goes negative, SN turns everything into something about herself.

3. One of the severest penalties in American football is for unsportsmanlike conduct, when a player doesn’t play according to the spirit of fair play. In what situations are you most likely to be a perpetrator of unsportsmanlike conduct?

I am not always a good loser. Otherwise I freakin' bend backwards to behave well in most cases.

4. In American football, the concept of running low-risk plays that consistently gain a few yards at a time is called "moving the chains," while the concept of going after huge gains with higher-risk plays is called the "vertical game." In your personal life, are you more of a moving-the-chains player or a vertical-game player?

Movin' the chains, baby, movin' the chains.

5.Sometimes in American football, the quarterback will, at the last moment, change his or her mind about the intended play, either to prevent what is likely to be a failure or to take advantage of a vulnerability in the other team. The method used in this play-change is often "calling an audible." In what way have you recently called an audible in your life?

I do this regularly. It drives my husband completely INSANE! He is strictly a lineman in this way.

Big shock here

You Are Cute!

Believe it or not, you are much more attractive than you realize. You don't try too hard, and that's one of the cutest things about you. You have a vibrant glow about you, and people are drawn to your energy. You're not perfect, thank goodness. Your flaws are part of what's lovable about you.

Are You Cute or Sexy?

wevs...most of this is stuff I can't really be objective about, right?

Cinn's Friday 5

(Link in blogroll)
we don't have to take our clothes off to have a good time.

[01] On a scale of 1 to 10 (with 10 being most comfortable) how comfortable are you with your body? 7 or so.

[02] How many hours of your 24 hour day do you normally spend naked? Maybe an hour.

[03] If a film you wanted to see had a large amount of nudity in it, would it change your desire to see the film? Depends on who is naked, and why. If it's gratuitous, then yeah.

[04] What household chore would you be least likely to do while in the nude? Cooking seems a bit dangerous.

[05] What celebrity (or non-celebrity) would you most want to see naked? I'd really rather they all kept more clothes on. There's a lot to be said for mystery, and it's (mostly) going unspoken.

Sign. Me. Up.

Your Ideal Island Vacation is Maui

On an island vacation, you want it all. You don't want to miss any experience or opportunity. As far as you're concerned, Maui has it all. Upscale resorts, tons of outdoor activities, and of course, beaches. Maui is romantic enough for a honeymoon, diverse enough for a group, and interesting enough for solo travel. The hardest decision you'll have to make is how to spend each afternoon. Spa treatment? Windsurfing? Or whale watching?

What's Your Ideal Island Vacation?

I can be packed in 10 minutes. Where shall I meet you.

Friday Fill-In

(Link in blogroll)

1. I'd really like to live alone on an island having induced amnesia in myself right now.

2. "Owdammitshit" is the word you'd most often hear me say if I stubbed my toe.

3. Possession is 9/10 of the law. Or so I've heard.

4. No pirate in history every looked like Captain Jack Sparrow.

5. Marshmallows and fire go together like a blanket and a teddy bear.

6. The world keeps going on and on. [but really, I'm singing that song from 25-30 years ago...England Dan & John Ford Coley (sp?)...?]

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to going to bed early, tomorrow my plans include working all day and Sunday, I want to watch Howie talk about football!

Backup career

You Are a Playwright

You are a highly literate wordsmith. You love both reading and writing. You are also a natural storyteller. You can turn a mediocre anecdote into a riveting tale. You find people and all aspects of life fascinating. No topic is off limits for you. In modern times, you would make a good filmmaker or novelist.

What's Your Medieval Profession?

OK, then. Then there's the gender thing...which would automatically exclude me from this, and most other, jobs in that era. {eyeroll}

Curious as a Cat

(Link in blogroll)

1) What is the most beautiful sound you’ve ever heard?

I love Bach played well on a theater organ.

2) If you could stop loving someone, who would it be?

I'm pleading the Fifth on this because an honest answer would sound really fuckin' brutal.

3) What is the hardest transition you’ve ever had to make in your life?

Becoming a mom was pretty traumatic, but becoming a semi-orphan was horrible.

4) Show and Tell. What comes to mind first when you see this picture? Or, tell a story if it reminds you of one.

It reminds me a lot of my street. {inside joke} Actually, the whole sense of this photo reminds me of looking outside right now. We don't have trees like this close to our house, but if I walk about 100 yards I'd be in this setting (minus the shed). It looks very peaceful and cold.

Manic Monday

(Link in blogroll)

What gives you hope?

Babies and laughter. I know: very trite.

How often do you get your haircut? Describe your worst haircut.

I used to get my hair done, always, for over ten years, at Fantastic Sam's, and every visit was an adventure: one side longer than the other, cut WAY too short, shearing of bangs...usually not more than one disaster at a time. I have had my hair done for the past 8-10 years by a goddess among women and she's never done me wrong.

What's your most treasured piece of jewelry? Why?

Uhm...probably my wedding ring. I'm not that much of a treasurer. I would be upset if I lost my trinity earrings, but I learned not to get attached to jewelry after Beast lost my high school class ring 25 years ago.

Assertion

You Are Assertive

You assert yourself whenever it's necessary, but you're always polite and appropriate about it. You're not a bully, a manipulator, or a nag. You just state what you need quickly and honestly. You've been assertive for so long that it just comes naturally to you. You're definitely not shy. People wonder why you get what you want in life. Well, it's because you ask for it!

How Assertive Are You?

It's taken me a VERY long time to learn this skill, and I still don't think I'm as good as the result says I am. I'm sure better than I was when I was in college, though!

Fantastic Fours

(Swiped from Allison)

Four family members: Beast, Sparky, Ruka, Buddy

Four places that I go to over and over: work, home, Walgreen's, ATM

Four people who e-mail me (regularly): Beast, Amy, Facebook, stores (about 6 of them now....gahhh!)

Four of my favorite places to eat: Amy's, Six Balls, Olive Garden, Taco Bell

Four places I would rather be right now: in bed asleep, Ydra, Vegas, San Diego

Four TV shows I watch over and over: (I'm interpreting this to mean that I watch reruns over and over, not the weekly updates) CSI, CSI:NY, Mythbusters, Dirty Jobs

Four things in the room I'm in: four lamps, three laptops, two people, one television

Four concerts I've been to: (I'll go with rock concerts, but I've been to far more classical concerts than rock) Paul Young, Styx (twice? thrice?), Boston, U2

Four things on my calendar: (this week) shop for Sparky's birthday gift(s), plan Sparky's birthday celebration, work, Study Time with the youth group

Four fears: failure, having certain people get angry with me, being found out (metaphysically), grizzly bears

Four things in your purse or wallet: money, credit card, debit card, appointment cards for massage and hair

Four chores you hate doing: laundry (aaarghhh), vacuuming, grocery shopping, emailing my family

Four favorite animals: dogs (including the wild cousins), guinea pigs, elephants, lions

Four speed dials on your cell phone: Beast, Sparky, Amy, FIL

Four places you have called home: here, and three different towns in Wisconsin

Four favorite pieces of jewelry: wedding ring, sapphire ring, silver hoop earrings, trinity earrings

Four websites you visit: Gmail, Blogger, Bloglines, Facebook

Four people who have been in your car: Beast, Sparky, Amy, FIL

Four things you are wearing: Maine sox, lined sweats, hoodie, glasses

Four things you are looking forward to: being healthy, saying goodbye to Schedule Nazi, WiiFit, the mission trip

Four favorite types of candy: Candy hearts, Smarties, Sourpatch kids, Skittles

Four sports teams you like: Green Bay Packers, Denver Broncos, Cleveland Browns, Sparky's school teams (I guess)

Four things found in your fridge: pop, raw spinach, cheese, really old eggnog

Four rituals you do daily: wash my face, take my meds, check Bloglines/Facebook/email obsessively, read

Four things currently within reach: Kleenex box, empty glass, house phone, aspirin

Four things you know how to cook: mac-n-cheese, pancakes, lasagna, banana bread (all from scratch)

Four Halloween costumes you've worn: clown, businessman, ghoul, rabbt

Sunday Stealing

(Link in blogroll)

1. If you could say anything you wanted to say to George Bush, what would you say?

"See ya, wouldn't wanna be ya!"

2. If you had to be the mother of Britney Spears or Lindsay Lohan, who would you choose and why?

I'd choose suicide. It would be the best possible option.

3. You get to be Queen for a day. The kids are all taken care of, and you can spend as much money as you want. What do you do all day?

This is not such a big deal for me. I'd rather escape my life for much longer than one day. Having said that, I'd head to Amy's: good food, foot waxing, talking, laughing, warmth...yeah.

4. Is there a song that brings tears to your eyes every time you hear it? If so, which one?

There are several. One is "One" by U2. Another is "Beautiful Boy" by John Lennon, and another is "A Mighty Fortress."

5. A fairy taps you on the shoulder and tells you that you can either have a perfect face or a perfect body for the rest of your life. Which do you choose?

Do I get to define "perfect"? Do I get to keep the unchosen option as is? If not, no deal. If so, then body.

6. If you could live any place in the world and money was no object, where would you live and why?

Ydra, Moosehead Lake, Ouray. I'd move around a lot.

7. What is your biggest regret in life?

Things that have gone unsaid.

8. If you could go back and visit one person in your life who is now dead, and ask one question, what would that question be and why would you ask it? [oops I forgot to answer this one--]

I'd ask Grandma to tell me about the happiest day(s) of her life. She wasn't a happy person when I knew her, and she died when I was pretty young, so I never really knew her, except that she didn't smile.

9. If you had the choice to age forward (like we are now) or aging backwards (think Benjamin Buttons) which would you choose and why?

If we all did it, it would just be normal. I've said for years that we really do return to a version babyhood if we are lucky enough to grow very old.

10. What will the epitaph on your headstone say?

"See ya, wouldn't wanna be ya."

LOL

Spy

Your International Spy Name is Electra Frost

Your Code Name: The Pilot You Reside in: Shanghai Why You're a Good Spy: You're a good liar

What's Your International Spy Name?

Mad lyin' skilz, that's me. And you only THINK I'm in Shanghai. hah!

Unconscious Mutterings

(Link in blogroll)

1. Unwanted ::...baby
2. You’d better :: ...behave
3. Woman :: Man
4. Weighed :: Measured
5. Upright :: Honest (hello, KJV)
6. I feel :: ...lousy today
7. Ill :: Sick
8. It’s like :: TO-dallee!
9. Poor man :: Rich man
10. Great :: Small

Patrick's Place

(Link in blogroll)
Saturday Six

1. If you could recycle only one of the following, would you be most likely to choose paper, aluminum cans or plastic containers?

Plastic. The rest will (eventually) degrade back into nature.

2. Check out your bathroom: what color are the metal fixtures: silver, gold, bronze, or pewter? (If you know the actual material rather than just the color, name it too.)

They're chrome. They could stand a little cleaning, but under the water spots, shiny silver.

3. When cooking, do you prefer non-stick surfaces or traditional surfaces? Do you have more copper-bottomed pots or stainless steel?

I gave up on non-stick a long time ago because they AREN'T. We have Revereware, with the copper bottoms, and one cast-iron skillet.

4. Take the quiz: What’s Metal Are You?

When I took it a couple of weeks ago, I was Copper.

5. Consider the jewelry you wear most often: is it gold, silver, platinum or something else?

I wear a LOT of different earrings. Some gold, some silver and a lot of cheap stuff. Ditto necklaces. I would say 75% of what I wear is sterling.

6. Have you ever had a piece of jewelry turn your skin a different color? Did anyone else notice before you did?

Like every other teenage girl in the late 70s, I had a spoon ring. My finger turned green under it, so I coated the inside of the ring with clear nail polish...which actually helped till it wore off. ;-) I have made smarter choices in jewelry selection since then. Oh, and I noticed the green before anyone else did.

- - - - - - - - -
Sunday Seven

Name the last seven people you talked to on your cell phone.

The last seven calls: Sparky, Beast, Sparky, Beast's workplace, Beast, Sparky, Beast
The last seven separate numbers: Sparky, Beast, Beast's workplace, Del, Amy, Del's workplace, S.O.

Alternate Saturday Six

(Link in blogroll)
Health & Fitness

1. Do you consider yourself healthy?

Not today/this weekend. But generally, yes. Pretty much in spite of myself, however.

2. Do you exercise?

Only at gunpoint.

3. Are you careful in what you eat?

I'm careful to eat only food I like. I like a lot of different kinds of food, though, so this is not much of a limit. So, no.

4. Have you started a diet recently?

No but it's coming up in my future quite soon, I think.

5. Do you know your BMI (Body Mass Indicator)?

I do now. And now I'm REALLY depressed.

6. Do you know your what your calorie intake should be a day?

My guess was about 1400 calories, which is correct in the sense that I would lose weight if that was what I took in.

100 things

(Found at Patrick's)

For these 100 things, put things you’ve done in bold, things you’d like to do in italics, and cross out things you wouldn’t want to do. What’s left are things you don’t have feelings about one way or the other.

1. Started your own blog
2. Slept under the stars
3. Played in a band. High school band class counts, right?
4. Visited Hawaii
5. Watched a meteor shower Like Patrick, I was underwhelmed.
6. Given more than you can afford to charity
7. Been to Disneyland. And -World as well.
8. Climbed a mountain. Ayup, several.
9. Held a praying mantis Only because of the hopping thing. I'd've done this as a kid, though.
10. Sang a solo In front of kids, quite regularly: "Deep and wide, deep and wide, there's a fountain flowing..."
11. Bungee jumped I don't think my joints will handle this well.
12. Visited Paris I am not a fan of the French in general.
13. Watched a lightning storm Yup. Heat lightning, too.
14. Taught yourself an art from scratch. If scrapbooking and HTML count.
15. Adopted a child [Had you asked me this 20 years ago, I would have said sign me up!]
16. Had food poisoning
17. Walked to the top of The Statue of Liberty [I don't think you're allowed to anymore--boo! Not that I care, really.]
18. Grown your own vegetables I think we'll be doing some of that again this summer.
19. Seen the Mona Lisa in France [Again, I'm not into France, and the painting itself is quite small and hard to see. So, meh.]
20. Slept on an overnight train Quite a few times.
21. Had a pillow fight I'm not thrilled with them.
22. Hitch-hiked I'd rather stay where I am, regardless of where that might be!
23. Taken a sick day when you’re not ill Not until I was in my 20s.
24. Built a snow fort. I think? With Sparky?
25. Held a lamb. I've petted one.
26. Gone skinny dipping
27. Run a marathon I loved to run when I was a kid. I don't see the point of running 26 miles, though.
28. Ridden in a gondola in Venice. Before the city sinks into the sea, please.
29. Seen a total eclipse. Pretty freakin' cool.
30. Watched a sunrise or sunset. Who has not?
31. Hit a home run.
32. Been on a cruise. I'm warming to the thought of Alaska (no pun intended) and maybe down the Mississippi.
33. Seen Niagara Falls in person. [CBA]
34. Visited the birthplace of your ancestors. My parents, yes. Their parents...not so much, since there are some mysteries there.
35. Seen an Amish community. Beast's parents used to live quite near Intercourse, PA.
36. Taught yourself a new language. The only way I'm gonna learn Hebrew or Greek, I expect.
37. Had enough money to be truly satisfied. Although it's a cliche, I'm afraid it really is wanting what you have rather than having what you want.
38. Seen the Leaning Tower of Pisa in person. Italy? I'm wherever you wanna take me!
39. Gone rock climbing. I grew up in the Rocky Mountains. It's not a misnomer!
40. Seen Michelangelo’s David. Would love to see it again--I was too young to properly view it.
41. Sung karaoke Shudder
42. Seen the Old Faithful geyser erupt.
43. Bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant.
44. Visited Africa. DREAM vacay!
45. Walked on a beach by moonlight. "No, really, you CAN get a moonburn...!" hee hee
46. Been transported in an ambulance Who would want to do this??
47. Had your portrait painted.
48. Gone deep sea fishing. [I'd rather spend an hour throwing up on dry land, thanks.]
49. Seen the Sistine Chapel in person. Must go back: they were just starting to clean it when I was there.
50. Been to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris CBA
51. Gone scuba diving or snorkeling. [Can't swim.]
52. Kissed in the rain. It's not all that....
53. Played in the mud. See mountain and rock climbing. hee
54. Gone to a drive-in theatre. Maybe this summer?
55. Been in a movie. Possibly? I was at the filming of Major League but have no idea if the scenes I was in were used in the film.
56. Visited the Great Wall of China. ...and broke my camera, so I have to go back.
57. Started a business.
58. Taken a martial arts class. Only if Tai Chi counts.
59. Visited Russia. In January. Dumb much?
60. Served at a soup kitchen.
61. Sold Girl Scout Cookies. What kind of salesperson am I? I'll tell ya: I couldn't even sell Girl Scout Cookies!!
62. Gone whale watching.
63. Got flowers for no reason. And I loved it.
64. Donated blood. A little over 2 gallons, total, so far.
65. Gone sky diving. This used to be high on my list of must-dos. It's slipping downwards.
66. Visited a Nazi Concentration camp. The only interesting thing for me in Poland.
67. Bounced a check
68. Flown in a helicopter.
69. Saved a favorite childhood toy.
70. Visited the Lincoln Memorial.
71. Eaten caviar GAAAAAHHHHHHH!!!
72. Pieced a quilt. I did a very small one for a doll when I was a kid. It might be interesting to try making a real one someday.
73. Stood in Times Square. [I've still no interest in visiting NYC.]
74. Toured the Everglades But I'll go to NYC before the Everglades!!
75. Been fired from a job. For telling the truth. Nice lesson for a teenager, eh?
76. Seen the Changing of the Guards in London.
77. Broken a bone
78. Been on a speeding motorcycle. Bittersweet memory, that.
79. Seen the Grand Canyon in person. Surprising that I haven't!
81. Visited the Vatican. 'Twould be hard to see the Sistine Chapel without visiting the Vatican...just sayin'.
82. Bought a brand new car. Don't think that's gonna happen again for awhile.
83. Walked in Jerusalem. [I can think of dozens of places I'd rather visit...]
84. Had your picture in the newspaper. Yup--job-related.
85. Read the entire Bible. Working on it. I'm about halfway through.
86. Visited the White House. Now that the Obamas are there, I'd kinda like to see it again.
87. Killed and prepared an animal for eating
88. Had chickenpox.
89. Saved someone’s life. If you count Sparky...
90. Sat on a jury Rather be deep-sea fishing!
91. Met someone famous.
92. Joined a book club Not my thing.
93. Lost a loved one.
94. Had a baby.
95. Seen the Alamo in person Texas is NOT on my list at all.
96. Swam in the Great Salt Lake Weird.
97. Been involved in a lawsuit Although our church is involved in one right now....sigh.
98. Owned a mobile phone
99. Been stung by a bee Not so much fun, eh.
100. Read an entire book in one day. Multiple times.

Friday Fill-In

(Link in blogroll)

1. Oh, I am so tired of winter and darkness!

2. I look forward to changes, big and little.

3. During church services, I often have a hard time focusing.

4. FOUR good-sized book orders this week; are you kidding me???

5. Right now I'd like to be back in bed, sleeping.

6. My book weight is my favorite gadget. [I actually have two--one at work, one here at home, to hold books open while my hands are full.]

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to spending time with Beast and Sparky, tomorrow my plans include errands and a band concert, and Sunday, I want to sleep, especially if I'm still feeling lousy!

blurg

Found here

1. do you sleep in your bra? Not often, at least not at night.

2. have you kissed anyone on your top list of your friends? I don't have a top list.

3. are you happy with your looks? Aside from the weight issue, yes.

4. do you enjoy drama? I enjoy it on stage. I don't enjoy it in real life.

5. are you a girly girl? Not so much.

6. who was the last person you hugged? Probably Sparky?

7. small or large purses? I hate purses in general, but when I do use one, it's very small. Normally, I just carry a wallet.

8. are you short? Not.

9. do you like someone? Arghhhhhh.

10. what would you do if someone smacked your butt? Only one person is allowed, and I'm not much of a fan even when he does it. Otherwise, smack in the face.

11. do you care if your socks are dirty? My sox almost never get that dirty. If they are, I take them off.

12. do you think you’re conceited? I'm occasionally a little full of my importance, yeah.

13. are you a bitch? Always. 23.8 hours each day.

13. do you dress up on Halloween? No.

14. are you double jointed? Nope.

15. where is the weirdest place you have slept? At work (in the workroom)? On the floors of several churches (on teen trips)?

16. has anyone touched/smacked your butt in the past 24 hours? What is this butt-smacking fixation? The person who is allowed has been out of town all week, so no.

17. is there any type of rumor going around about you? Apparently so, judging by a conversation I had today.

18. do you call anybody by their last name? Sparky, sometimes.

20. how many guys do you think will end up reading this just because it says 'girl confessions'? Only those who search for that phrase in Google and go here by mistake.

WARM UP:
[ ] i do wear make up.
[x] i have cried at a movie theater.
[x] i can put mascara on without opening my mouth.
[ ] i get jealous. [technically, it's happened, but not often]
[x] i think Johnny Depp is sexy.
[x] i love to laugh
[x] i like classic rock.
[x] i like death/grind/black metal.
[ ] i like rap. [some, but not much of it]
[x] i like techno.
[x] i like country. [more than I like rap]
[ ] i carry a purse. [rarely]
[x] i’d be lost without my computer.
[ ] i own a Spice Girls CD.
[ ] i own a Britney Spears CD.
[x] i own a boy band CD.
[ ] i get bored watching football.
[ ] i love Gothic guys.
[ ] i love skater guys.
[ ] i like guys who BMX.
[ ] i’ve never been called a spoiled brat
[x] i love guys that are just themselves.
[x] guys are confusing.
[x] i’ve been called a bad influence. [but totally not seriously]
[ ] lip gloss is better than lipstick.
[x] i can leave the house without makeup. [I do everyday]
[x] i play video games, even when there are other people around
[x] my friends are the best.
[ ] i want a tattoo.
[x] i don’t have a tattoo.
[ ] i have a piercing.
[x] i’m insecure.

---~~~---

YOUR BOY SIDE:
[ ] you love hoodies.
[x] you love jeans.
[x] dogs are better than cats.
[ ] it's hilarious when people get hurt. [it's funny only if I know they are ok]
[x] you've played with/against boys on a team. [hello? gym class?]
[x] shopping is torture.
[ ] sad movies suck.
[ ] you own a XBOX.
[x] you own a Wii.
[x] you played with Hot Wheels as a little kid.
[ ] at some point in life you wanted to be a firefighter.
[ ] you owned a DS, PS2 or Sega.
[ ] you used to be obsessed with Power Rangers.
[x] you watch sports on TV.
[ ] gory movies are cool.
[x] you go to your dad for advice. [I did when I could, WAY more than my mom]
[ ] you own like a trillion baseball hats.
[ ] you used to/do collect football collector cards.
[ ] baggy sweatpants are cool to wear.
[ ] it's kind of weird to have sleepovers with a bunch of people.
[ ] green, black, red, blue, or silver are one of your favorite colors. [uh? what?]
[x] you love to go crazy and not care what other people think.
[x] Sports are fun.
[x] you talk with food in your mouth. [only around other boys ;-)]
[x] you sleep at night with your socks on. [when my feet are cold]
[x] you have fished at least once.
Total: 13

YOUR GIRL SIDE:
[ ] you love to shop.
[ ] you wear eyeliner.
[ ] you wear the color pink.
[ ] you go to your mom for advice.
[ ] you consider cheerleading a sport.
[ ] you hate wearing the color black.
[x] you like going to the mall. [I don't mind, as long as I have a reason or someone with whom to go]
[x] you like getting manicures and/or pedicures.
[x] you like wearing jewelry.
[ ] you cried watching The Notebook.
[ ] skirts are a big parts of your wardrobe.
[ ] shopping is one of your favorite hobbies.
[x] you don't like the movie Star Wars.
[ ] you are/were in gymnastics.
[ ] it takes you around one hour to shower. [OMGWTFBBQ--for real? No freakin' way could I spend an hour in the shower!]
[x] you smile a lot more than you should.
[x] you have more than 10 pairs of shoes.
[x] you care about what you look like.
[ ] you like wearing dresses when you can.
[x] you like wearing body spray/perfume.
[x] you like high heel shoes.
[x] you used to play with dolls as a kid.
[ ] you like putting makeup on others.
[ ] you like being the star of almost everything.
[ ] pink is one of your favorite colors.
Total :10

I am, apparently, a boy.

Three Words Only

(found here)
Only 3 word answers. No more, no less. [oh you know I'm gonna cheat at some point]

1. Where is your cell phone? by the remote

2. Your boyfriend/girlfriend/husband/wife? in Las Vegas

3. Your hair? thick, colored, messy

4. Where is your father? dead and cremated

5. Cheesecake? picky about it

6. Your favorite thing to do? read and sleep

7. Your dream last night? more than one

8. Your favorite drink? diet Dr. Pepper

9. Car you want? chocolate Jeep Cherokee

10. The room you're in? dim, comfy, quiet

11. George Bush? gone gone gone

12. What's your biggest fear? failure and panic

13. Nipple rings? perfectly disgusting trend

14. Who will you hang out with tonight? Sparky and CSI

15. Go check GoofyAuctions.com and give your opinion? think I'll pass

17. One of your wish list items? a functional laptop

18. Where did you grow up? in my hometown

19. The last thing you did? put on moccasins

20. What are you wearing? very motley outfit

21. Tattoo? not my thing

22. Ketchup? small doses, ok

23. Your computer? blue screen monster

24. Your life? depends on pharmaceuticals

25. Your mood? lazy, relaxed, dry

26. Missing? warm summery weather

27. What are you thinking about right now? this CSI episode

28. Your car is? extremely filthy everywhere

29. Your work? is never-ending

30. Your summer? long ways away

31. Your relationship status? 22 years married

32. Your favorite color(s)? shades of blue

33. When is the last time you laughed? today at work

34. Last time you cried? yesterday watching CNN

35. What will you do after this? try to post (it)

More Multiple Blogthings

You Are Traditional and Dependable

You are responsible, detail oriented, and fairly conservative. Some people may even say you're a bit uptight. You seek harmony and balance in your life. You prefer to work with a partner. You're hyper and very impulsive. You are always getting yourself out of messes. You seek security in your life. Feeling safe is important to you.

The Sandwich Cookie Personality Test

Well, sorta. And frankly, I prefer Hydrox. ;-)

+ + + + + + + + + + + + + + +

You Got 7/10 Questions Right

You are a probably a news junkie, Obama fan, or both. You know a lot about Barack Obama - including his politics, history, and family. It's likely you're a very knowledgeable person and quite well read. You can't stand ignorant people, no matter what their political persuasion is.

How Much Do You Know About Barack Obama?

"Keyna"?? WTF! Hence proving the last line true. And ignorant behavior can easily be found in the smartest of people.

+ + + + + + + + + + + + + + +

You Are Sawyer

You are cunning and calculating. Some people would even call you a con artist. You're smart and get bored easily. You use your biting sense of humor to entertain yourself. It's been hard for you to trust people throughout your life. You don't get close to anyone. You are a drifter. You don't have permanent ties, and you tend to "disappear" often. You are introverted and even a bit shy. You don't share the true you with many people. As a result, no one really gets you. At your core, you are a sweet, passionate, and funny person.

Who Are You on LOST?

Uhm, yeah, so about 50% right. Since I don't watch the show, I guess that's fine.

Rollercoaster of Randomness

(swiped from Kwizgiver)

Are you single? I am tonight.

Have you ever been in love? Yes.

What did your last ex look like? At the time, he looked dark-haired and dark-skinned. It's been 23 years...who knows, now?

Who is/are favorite band/artist? U2.

How is your day going? Pretty well.

What were you doing at 3:00pm? Heading out to the circulation desk for my scheduled hour.

Have any siblings? Yes. I. Do.

What movie did you last see? Am I really the only person in the world who sees so few movies that this question is terminally annoying?

What kind of phone service do you use? Verizon landline, Sprint cell.

Do you have a favorite pair of shoes? Several.

What is your favorite breakfast meal? Toasted bagel/cream cheese.

Would you rather be at the beach or be in the snow? You're kidding me, right? Beach. Duh.

Do you like anyone? No, I hate the world. (of course I like some people, quite a lot of them actually)

Are they older or younger? Both. I'm middle-aged, after all.

Have any nicknames? Just a couple.

Would you rather eat or sleep? Yes. If I could combine the two, imagine the possibilities.

Do you like long car rides? Sometimes. I definitely prefer driving to riding.

Wanna go for a walk? Not right now, no.

Favorite colors? Blue.

Rain or sunshine? Sun. Duh. These are some whack-ass questions.

What is your favorite drink? Diet Dr. Pepper.

Plans for the weekend? Uh? Cleaning? There's a concert on Saturday.

Ever been out of the state? Uh, yeah. I was out of state 50 hours ago.

Out of the country? Yes, but not for awhile. Boo.

Ever met anyone famous? Yes. {yawn}

Who is the best band to see in concert? I enjoy whoever's on stage as long as they're entertaining.

How much money do you have on you? Right now, none. In my wallet, probably about $200.

Next concert you will attend? Who knows.

What is your favorite dessert? Cherry pie with whipped cream.

Anything exciting happening soon? Not that I'm directly involved with. We'll have some new staff at work this year. We hope.

Text or call? Depends on the circs.

Are you a morning person? Yes.

Sunrise or Sunset? I prefer sunrise.

What do you like to watch on tv? CSI, TAR, Survivor.

When is your birthday? Second week in November.

How old will you be? 46 this year.

Ever been drunk? Uh, duh, yeah.

What is the most recent thing you have smoked? I think I singed the hairs in my ears fairly recently. Otherwise, I don't smoke.

How many times have you been on a plane? Probably an average of once a year...45ish times.

Favorite vacation spot? Ydra...or Ouray.

What kind of pancakes do you like? {giggle} Those made by someone else, since I always burn them.

What elementry school did you attend? Something that sounds like it involves irate male bovines, but is actually someone's last name.

How tall are you? 172 cm.

Are you close to your parents? In some ways.

Do you like to hold hands in public? With a couple people.

Would you have sex in aisle five at Wal-Mart if you could? Ugh, NO. How depressing is that?

Do you have a job? Yes. Probably because I refuse to have sex in aisle five at Wal-Mart.

Do you like cotton candy? It's not my favorite.

Do you own a hula-hoop? ...don't think so.

What kind of car do you drive? I drive a truck.

Can you do the "Soldier Boy"? I could probably figure it out, if I felt it were a necessary skill.

Do you own a pair of "boots with the fur? Not. On. A. Bet.

What color is your umbrella? Er...tan, I think.

How many times a day do your brush your teeth? Twice a day.

Do you comb or brush your hair? Yes.

What brand of toilet paper do you use? Charmin, usually.

How far have you traveled from your home? About 7000 miles.

Do you own a waffle iron? Yup.

Have you ever bought anything from eBay? No, but Beast has.

Have you ever been in a wedding? Several. I think I'm done, though.

Do you know your mailman's name? No, and I don't want to. He's a prick.

Have you ever had a bad haircut? Hella yeah. NOT lately. Not for about 8 years, in fact.

Do you like to bet on horse or dog races? No, but I love watching them.

Would you go to the moon if you could? I might. I suppose it would depend on several things.

What is the highlight of your day, so far? Getting a great deal of work done.

What type of alcoholic drink do you order at the bar? Stoli on the rocks.

Do you think senior citizens have sex? Some do. Some don't.

Have you ever shot anything and killed it? I've never shot anything.

Would you eat a live spider if somebody was going to pay you 5000 dollars to do it? No. I'm not a cheap dare.

Have you ever had a pedicure? Yes. I do my own pretty often, and I've had a couple from others. Meh.

Blogthings Explosion again

You Are a Ski Cap

You are a comfortable, low maintenance, and even practical person. You use fashion to look good, and you don't stray too far from the mainstream. You are friendly and accepting. You don't really judge other people for their fashion choices. You enjoy clothes and accessories as much as the next person, but you're not superficial about it!

What Winter Hat Are You?

I'm not "even" practical--I'm VERY practical, and we do have ski caps in the house as a matter of fact. The one I usually wear, however, is a wool hat I bought in Yorkshire three years ago.- - - - - - - - - - - - -

You Attract a Capricorn

When down to earth, responsible, loyal Capricorn meet you, they've met their match. You are as ethical as Capricorn, and they respect your values. You are also able to be a loyal and caring partner to your Capricorn, even when times are tough. You are there to cheer up or motivate your Capricorn - which never goes unappreciated.

What Sign Do You Attract?

Yes, but I'm married to a Scorp. There are three Capricorns in my family. I get along well with precisely one of them, and he lives thousands of miles away. So, what I'm saying is that this quiz is a complete bust for me.- - - - - - - - - - - - -

You Are "esc"

Some people might try to say that you're unreliable or flighty. But you can't help it. You're always finding yourself in sticky situations. You're willing to bail if things are looking bad. You are quite impatient. For you, having to escape every now in then is the price of taking risks. And you're not about to stop taking risks!

What Keyboard Key Are You?

People will say anything, and I'm channelling a LOT of flightiness tonight. As for the last half : impatient, yes. Risky, no.- - - - - - - - - - - - -

Your Friendship Style is Empathetic

You deeply care about each person you're friends with. For you, friendship is all about the personal connection. You tend to know everything about your friends' lives... and they know everything about yours. Your friends are your confidants. You are always there for your friends. You celebrate their successes and support them in their times of need. You are as loyal as they come. And you expect the same loyalty and understanding from your friends in return. You and another Empathetic Friend: Have a amazing friendship, when it works. You care for each other deeply, but you often end up with hurt feelings and drama. You and a Gregarious Friend: May have a bit of a one sided friendship. You adore your Social Friend, but you sometimes feel a bit neglected. You and an Independent Friend: Struggle a bit. You are very interested in your Independent Friend's life, but your friend often needs more space. You and a Philosophical Friend: Respect one another. You love to learn about your Philosophical Friend's brilliant ideas.

What's Your Friendship Style?

I think my second-highest score may have been "Independent" because I can't imagine having issues in this area. Or I have no "Independent" friends. - - - - - - - - - - - - -

You Are a Bit of a Procrastinator

You tend to get things done in a timely manner, but you can't help but put off tasks you hate. You have no problem getting the fun or easy stuff done. You generally enjoy taking care of responsibilities. However, if a task arises that you dislike, it might get shelved for a long time. And even though it's human nature to procrastinate, your procrastination is hindering your productivity. Take a look at the things you are putting off doing. Do they really need to be done? Complete any task that's important. The other stuff you're procrastinating is probably not worth doing.

Are You a Procrastinator?

Good advice, except there's no allowance here for terminal laziness. ;-)

Friday Fill-Ins

(Link in blogroll)

1. Enough with the cold! I'm headed to warmer climes tomorrow.

2. Life causes me to be conflicted.

3. I've been craving warmth.

4. Kids makes me laugh.

5. I wish I could go to Mexico next week.

6. My computer has been on my mind lately.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to finishing packing and going to be a little early, tomorrow my plans include flying to Vegas and walkin' the Strip, in the sun, and Sunday, I want to spend as much time soakin' up the rays as I can!

Newsy

So, my laptop monitor died yesterday. That leaves me without a way to keep up with all the memes I usually do. Things are going to be few and far between for awhile till we decide if we should fix the monitor or replace the whole machine. Ugh.

RevGalBlogPals Friday Five

(Link in blogroll)
Pancakes
I'm now officially freaked out. This is just BIZARRE!!! Did I miss a memo??

1. Scratch or mix? Buttermilk or plain?

Bisquick, always. And I never intentionally have buttermilk in the house...just the occasoinal 'old milk.'

2. Pure and simple, or with additions cooked in?

I rarely do anything besides the basic pancake. Once in awhile, I'll throw in chips, and sometimes for dinner we'll have 'corn fritters' but otherwise, it's all plain.

3. For breakfast or for dinner?

I don't think just the pancake would hold me all night. I'm usually hungry a couple of hours after breakfast when we have pancakes. That always confused me as a kid. I could eat STACKS of pancakes and be hungry at 9:30, but a couple of slices of toast would hold me till lunchtime.

4. Preferred syrup or other topping? How about the best side dish?

I like maple syrup or melted brown sugar syrup. Beast will only use Mrs. Butterworth. As for a side dish: bacon.

5. Favorite pancake restaurant?

IHOP, but Beast doesn't like it. So we go to Six Balls, as we do for everything els edible around here.

Bonus: Any tasty recipes out there, for pancakes or other special breakfast dishes? Bring 'em on!

I wonder if you can put bacon IN pancakes? Mom used to do that with waffles sometimes. I may have to try this sometime...soon.

Wordy

Your Word is "Fearless"

You see life as your one chance to experience everything, and you just go for it! You believe the biggest risk is being afraid and missing out on something amazing. Sometimes your fearlessness means you're daring. You enjoy risky activities. And sometimes your fearlessness means you're courageous. You're brave enough to do the right thing, even when it's scary.

What's Your Word?

I wonder what it would have been if one the the choices for the 17th century question would have been "a big nobody." huh

Friday 5

(Link in blogroll)
The Lucky Ones

1. Among people you know, who seems to be lucky in love?

I still may be recovering from that last Blogthings, but this requires some definition, I think. I mean, how do you define "lucky"? Or, for that matter, "love"? I suspect we each have our own mental picture of each of those terms. But in my case, I'll say that the people I think are the most comfortable with their relationship are Jean and Reg.

2. Among people you know, who seems to be lucky with money?

Beast. Which is convenient to say the least. ;-)

3. Among people you know, who’s lucky to be alive?

Warren. No contest.

4. Among people you know, who seems to have the worst luck?

I 'know' a lot of people at the library who fit the bill here, but among those people I know well, it's probably Katherine.

5. What kinds of good-luck charms do you own or carry?

I don't. I do keep some things that comfort me handy, but--and I was going to do a whole thing at the end of the questions anyway--I don't really believe in 'luck' per se. To a greater or lesser extent, we make our own luck. For instance, in the questions above, Beast is lucky with money in part because he understands it. Katherine's lack of luck has a lot to do with the way she lives her life. Yes, some people "have all the luck" and others "never get a break" but I can't help hearing my dad's voice saying, "You make your bed, you have to lie in it."

Define your terms!!!

You Will Sleep With 4 People

Better get cracking!

How Many People Will You Sleep With?

L M F A O!!

The best part: no matter what your result, the kicker line is the same.

Snort.

Friday Fill-Ins

(Link in blogroll)

1. It's January; winter just officially started, and as usual, I hate it.

2. Sugar is what I crave most right now. Newsflash

3. Cork and wine go together like Saran and leftovers. [I could have sworn, when I first read this, it said "Crack and wine..." I need new eyes!!]

4. Playing with animals and small children is so nourishing. [to me: YMMV]

5. Let us dare to dream big.

6. I love my home.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to taking a long bath and packing up a few things for tomorrow, tomorrow my plans include SPA DAY, and Sunday, I want to have time to talk to my brother and nephews (I work, and that sux since I'll be gone most of the afternoon)!

LMAO

...at an inside joke. Life is very weird sometimes, and the timing of some things is quite scary.

You Are Buttermilk Pancakes

[You] prefer traditional, old fashioned foods. You shy away from anything fake, and you like meals with simple ingredients. It's not likely someone would find margarine or diet soda in your kitchen. Instead, someone might find a loaf of homemade bread baking or a soup simmering.

What Kind of Pancakes Are You?

OK, I love buttermilk pancakes. But you ABSOLUTELY will find margarine AND diet soda in my kitchen, and I haven't made homemade bread in a couple of years. I should: it's good therapy.

Food 4 Thought Friday

(Link in blogroll)

Breakfast
What one word would you put on your gravestone?

My first name, I guess. I'm going to go all feminist on this and say that it's the only part of my name I didn't get from a man. Or, The Man. ;-) Honestly, I don't care what's on my gravestone, since I'll be cremated.

Lunch
What happened today that made you feel good?

I'm nearly finished with a project that's been hanging around at work for several months. The worst part--talking to our database manager--commences next week, but I think I have my head wrapped around it now.

Dinner
Is there something hanging over your head that you need to do right now?

Oh, like, taking down the Christmas tree???? Yeah. Obviously, I'm not. {shrug} I have an awesome-wonderful husband: he and the Sparkster are going to work on it tomorrow.

Midnight Snack
What are you most looking forward to at this moment? Least looking forward to?

Most: tomorrow's "spa day"
Least: Winter.

Recipe for the Week (instead of your recipe for life, what is it just for this week?):

Vegas, baby!!!

Curious as a Cat

(Link in blogroll)

1) What is the cause that you believe is the most worthy of all those available?

Education about the world in which we live, not just the corner in which we reside.

2) What problem is the most common among people your age?

I believe it's called "midlife crisis." heh

3) Who do you feel is the most underappreciated actor (male or female) in the history of Hollywood?

I think Marilyn Monroe never got a lot of credit for being a good actress, but I'm not sure that counts. Otherwise, I can't think of anyone.

4) Show and Tell. What comes to mind first when you see this picture? Or, tell a story if it reminds you of one.

I'm not sure why I chose this photo--when I looked at it again today, I thought it was rocks. It's actually dishes. And I can't make it any bigger or it looses focus completely. So, this was a bust. Bummer.

Metal Button

You Are Copper

You are provocative and challenging. You help people realize who they really are. You live a very balanced life. You always take time for love and art. You are both a powerful and generous person. You always have time to give back. People find you to be incredibly ethical and loyal.

What Metal Are You?

People may find me that way; it doesn't mean I am. (lol) As for that first part--I hope I don't hinder people in their self-realization. Otherwise...yeah, I like copper.

---

You Are Charming

You are witty, funny, and very talkative, at least when you're at the top of your game. You can be quite moody as well. It's likely that you will have four or more children... whether you use birth control or not! You are easily effected [sic] by the world around you. You are emotional and even a bit moody. You are very detail oriented and tidy. Some may even call you obsessive. You are quite conservative. You are neither a flirter or a flaunter.

What Does Your Belly Button Say About You?

I'd say that, according to this, I'm TERMINALLY MOODY!! I am not having four or more children, not of my own anyway.

BOTH of these quizzes were a nightmare of typos and grammatical errors; very sloppy. Very disappointing.

Manic Monday

(Link in blogroll)

Do you have any idiosyncrasies or unusual quirks when it comes to food and/or eating?

I try to chew equally on both sides of my mouth to keep the wear on my teeth even. I try to eat half a sandwich all on one side and then the other half on the other.

Have you ever written love letters? If so, do you still have any of them?

I have. And I do.

How easy or difficult is it for you to say you're sorry?

It's easy to say it, but it's not always easy to mean it. It also depends on how much I'm invested in being right; if I don't care, an apology is pretty simple.

Unconscious Mutterings

(Link in blogroll)

1. Confirmation :: Church
2. Verse :: Chapter and...
3. Authorize :: Approve
4. Blog :: Journal
5. Thirty :: Forty
6. Heir :: Inheritor
7. What are you doing? :: What's up?
8. Complaint :: Irritation
9. Leave :: Depart
10. Tune :: Melody

Patrick's Place

(Link in blogroll)
Saturday 6

1. Have you ever been asked to speak in front of an audience? If so, what was the occasion and how do you feel you did?

Yes. I've spoken at church innumerable times, in front of kids and the whole congregation, I teach the occasional class at the library, and I've spoken to a small group at a conference. As long as I have a script, I'm good to go, although extemporaneous spouting is not unknown either. Generally, I do fine, and am doing better as time passes since I am getting better at suppressing emotion in the midst of speaking.

2. If you were asked to appear on David Letterman’s show, do you have a "Stupid Human Trick" you could perform?

Sure. Don't we all? I can stack up to 2 to 3 feet of books of varying shapes on my left hand and arm and carry them around the library as I shelve them. Thankfully, this would bore a national audience, and Dave, so I'm in no danger of having to appear on TV. For which I'm grateful. I'm not a fan of these shows (anymore).

3. If you were asked to be in a circus, would you be more comfortable as a clown, a trapeze artist, a tightrope walker, a juggler, an animal trainer, or the ringmaster?

Ringmaster. I'm not coordinated or physically talented enough for any of the others.

4. Take the quiz: What Circus Act Should You Perform?

When I did this I was supposed to walk on stilts. Hah. Not bloody likely.

5. How old were you the first time you visited a circus? How did you like it?

I think I was 6 or 7, and all I remember is the guy sitting next to us who smoked Marlboros and a very odd right ear.

6. How often would you describe your real job as a "circus"? Do you think it seems to be getting more or less like a circus?

It has it's circus-like moments, but mostly (at its worst) it's closer to a girl's bathroom in junior high school.

Saturday 9

(Link in blogroll)
Dying to Know

1. What do you believe happens when we die?

Physically, we commence rotting. Metaphysically, no one knows. And you wonder why I like to read mysteries?!

2. Do you consider yourself religious?

I believe in God. I go to church. I am not a fan of the word "religious" which seems to have a lot of connotations that don't apply to me, but I probably am. Religious, I mean.

3. Do you believe in ghosts?

I'm agnostic on the issue. There are some (currently) unexplainable things in the world, but I haven't had a whole lot of experiences myself.

4. Do you believe that people live on other planets?

Well. First let's define "people." Seriously, I have no problem believing that other planets could support life. I doubt very seriously that there are bipedal, carbon-based critters like us though.

5. Have you ever seen something abnormal?

Every day I work, baby! If you mean "paranormal" then I have had one very weird moment when my deceased father's voice said my name rather sternly.

6. Do you believe in reincarnation?

Not really, not in the sense of souls coming back and working through different levels of life-forms.

7. Have you ever witnessed a miracle?

Several. I didn't have cancer, even though I should've. My sister didn't die when I was 3 as the doctors had predicted. My brother spoke, voluntarily, on the phone with our niece on Christmas. Sparky and I saw a double rainbow together a few years ago at the perfect time.

8. Is there a person living or dead that influences your philosophies?

Of course. My family members all keep me in line because I know whatever I do, I'll hear their voices in my head giving me advice and critiquing my behavior. Obviously, Church leaders through history have influenced who/how/what my religious beliefs encompass. Loads of other people.

9. Is there a work of fiction that closely matches your spiritual beliefs?

Most mysteries, actually. Most traditional mysteries are really modern morality plays: bad people eventually are caught and punished, but their bad acts can't be erased. OK, I'm stretching, but since I don't usually read "Christian fiction" I can't think of anything. The Book of Ruth might be on the list, or Plainsong.

These were oddly difficult!!!

New Year's Survey

(from Allison)

1. What did you do in 2008 that you’d never done before? Drove 150 miles in a blizzard...twice...in one month. Acted as a nursing assistant in incredibly trying circumstances. Watched Beast become extremely overwhelmed with too much. Fed my mom meals of (basically) baby food.

2. Did you keep your new year’s resolutions, and will you make more for next year? I don't do resolutions. My word for 2008 was "thrive." This year...I dunno yet.

3. Did anyone close to you give birth? There were babies at church, but none in my immediate circle of friends. My family...is hopeless at procreation.

4. Did anyone close to you die? Yes.

5. What countries did you visit? Fear, Horror, Dismay, and Sorrow...all here in the U.S.A.

6. What would you like to have in 2009 that you lacked in 2008? Getting up off my butt.

7. What dates from 2008 will remain etched upon your memory, and why? August 7 is the only one that I think needs to stick.

8. What was your biggest achievement of the year? Clearing off my work cart after being horrifically behind for 7 months. Taking steps to get more involved in the community. Figuring out the Clerk of Session stuff, just in time to finish my term.

9. What was your biggest failure? I did not handle a diseased (or dis-eased?) relationship well; I didn't take strong steps to find a cure and it is probably beyond saving now.

10. Did you suffer illness or injury? Nothing that losing at least two stone wouldn't alleviate. Oh, and that stupid eye infection that lasted all winter and spring.

11. What was the best thing you bought? Commercially: the Wii (tho' technically Beast paid for it). However, the best things I think I paid money for this year were the opportunities to serve with the youth on another mission trip to travel to ALA and spend time getting to know a colleague (now friend) better.

12. Whose behavior merited celebration? Sparky. And our president-elect.

13. Whose behavior made you appalled and depressed? Much of the rest of the human population. For some shining examples, read any front page virtually any day this year. If you insist on a name, let's go with the Illinois Governor because what he has been doing is so humiliating to anyone with a conscience.

14. Where did most of your money go? Gas. OK, not really, but it felt that way.

15. What did you get really, really, really excited about? The new school. And watching the election returns.

16. What song will always remind you of 2008? "Grace Kelly" Mika

17. Compared to this time last year, are you:
 a) happier or sadder? 
b) thinner or fatter? 
c) richer or poorer? Less unhappy, waa-a-a-aay fatter, slightly richer.

18. What do you wish you’d done more of? Sorting photos.

19. What do you wish you’d done less of? Allison said it: "Sitting on my ass, figuratively and literally."

20. How did you spend Christmas? With family and friends, mostly laughing.

21. Did you fall in love in 2008? A little.

22. What was your favorite TV program? CSI:NY has been a pleasant surprise.

23. Do you hate anyone now that you didn’t hate this time last year? I don't hate anyone, but I am extremely disappointed with two people and trying to figure out how to extricate myself from dealing with them.

24. What was the best book you read? Pretty close to a tie between John (Niall Williams) and Ruby's Imagine(Kim Antieau).

25. What was your greatest musical discovery? I can't think of anything right now.

26. What did you want and get? A wonderful mission experience for all, a fix for my eyes, iced sugar cookies, a Wii, the chance to say goodbye properly to my mother-in-law.

27. What did you want and not get? Lower cholesterol, duct tape over my mouth at necessary times, younger, thinner, time.

28. What was your favorite film of this year? The only movie I saw at a theater was Speed Racer (which I enjoyed, believe it or not). I've enjoyed watching I am Legend last month on TV. I can't think o f anything else.

29. What did you do on your birthday, and how old were you? I turned 45 and it was just a regular day. I don't make a big deal of it anymore. Beast got me lovely cards and gifts. There was cake.

30. What one thing would have made your year immeasurably more satisfying? I would like to stop second-guessing myself all the time.

31. How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2008? Everything was too tight!!

32. What kept you sane? Blogging, work, music, friends, and (some) family.

33. Which celebrity/public figure did you fancy the most? I like Kate Winslet. OK, to be clear: I admire her. I can't think of any guys that fit the bill beyond the usual suspects.

34. What political issue stirred you the most? What, the presidential election wasn't a big enough deal?

35. Who did you miss? Dad. I could have used some good advice at a few key points, and a hug from him.

36. Who was the best new person you met? The library people at Sparky's school. Getting to know Andy at work better is proving to be a lot of fun too.

37. Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2008. The best gift I can give myself is a break.

38. Quote a song lyric that sums up your year.from The Lion King:
[We will stand by your side]
[Filled with hope and filled with pride]
We are more than we are
We are one

If there's so much I must be
Can I still just be me
The way I am?

Can I trust in my own heart
Or am I just one part
Of some big plan?

[Even those who are gone]
[Are with us as we go on]
Your journey has only begun

[Tears of pain, tears of joy]
[One thing nothing can destroy]
Is our pride, deep inside
We are one

Friday Fill-Ins

(Link in blogroll)

1. The world is complex.

2. "What did you say?" was the last thing I said. (to Sparky)

3. I wonder how personal chemistry between people works. Why do some people just set my teeth on edge? I know part of the answer, but it sure doesn't make things easier.

4. There is a spark of hope at the end of all things.

5. There's something to be said for low-impact holidays.

6. Home is where I want to be.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to sorting and putting away the Christmas cards we received, tomorrow my plans include working (gah!), and Sunday, I want to get the Christmas decorations packed up!