Celebrate

You Should Celebrate the New Year

When it comes to New Year's Eve, you're very traditionally minded. It's all about ringing out the old and ringing in the new. And you'll toast to that. You are always optimistic about the year to come, and your favorite part of New Year's Eve is the countdown. When the clock strikes midnight, it's a chance to start over again. And that's something to celebrate!

What Should You Celebrate?

Well, sorta. Except there were no choices for people who just wanna sit around and do nothing on New Year's Eve....like me.

New Year's Memes

(All from Allison)

#1
1. Will you be looking for a new job? God, I hope not!

2. Will you be looking for a new relationship? Not a romantic one.

3. New house? I'm not moving out of this house until we move out of this state.

4. What will you do differently in '10? I'm not making any firm plans anymore. They have seem to have gotten scuttled a lot this year. Fugeddaboudit.

5. New Year's resolution? Don't make 'em.

6. What will you not be doing in '10? I hope not to watch anymore old friends (in the elderly sense of 'old') die.

7. Any trips planned? Vegas in January. After that...no plans. See 4, above.

8. Wedding plans? Doubtful, but not impossible, I suppose.

9. What's on your calendar? Birthdays, meetings, haircuts, dr's appts., church stuff....

10. What can't you wait for? Next fall's high school football games.

11. What would you like to see happen differently? I gotta do better about meals....

12. What about yourself will you be changing? My weight (I hope).

13. What happened in '09 that you didn't think would ever happen? Honestly, my mom's death.

14. Will you be nicer to the people you care about? Well, I hope so. I'm hopeful that my (teenage) son will try being nicer to his parents more consistently, too.

15. Will you dress differently this year than you did in '09? Not intentionally.

16. Will you start or quit drinking? Allison said, "I might drink more." I think that's likely in my case as well.

17. Will you better your relationship with your family? Status quo.

18. Will you do charity work? About as much as I do now.

19. Will you go to bars? Like I do now: twice a year or so. ;-)

20. Will you be nice to people you don't know? About like usual.

21. Do you expect '10 to be a good year for you? I think, I hope, I'm due.

22. How much did you change from this time last year til now? Exernally, not much. Internally, there is a lot going on percolating through the silt.

23. Do you plan on having a child? That is NOT happening.

24. Will you still be friends with the same people you are friends with now? If they'll have me.

25. Major lifestyle changes? I hope not. I like they way I live now.

26. Will you be moving? Only in the ambulatory sense.

27. What will you make sure doesn't happen in '10 that happened in '09? We.Are.Going.On.Vacation.Together.As.A.Family.This.Year. No more skipped years for vacations.

28. What are your New Years Eve plans? This, plus entertaining FIL, probably watching stuff on TV.

29. Will you have someone to kiss at midnight? The three Ts.

30. One wish for '10? The end of the war in the Middle East.

#2
1. What was the single best thing that happened this past year? The mission trip with the high school youth group at church.

2. What was the most challenging thing that happened? My mom's situation, between her broken leg, the bedsore, and then her decision to stop eating.

3. What was an unexpected joy this past year? My extended family (of origin) has the ability to rock, BIGtime. Such a good thing.

4. What was an unexpected obstacle? Well, there was that week in June where we thought Beast was going to lose his job.... And then trying to find a job for Sparky has been a trial.

5. Pick three words to describe 2009. Roller-coaster, breakneck, vicissitudinous

6. Pick three words your spouse would use to describe your 2009 (don’t ask them; guess based on how you think your spouse sees you). Sad, eyesore, lazy.

7. Pick three words your spouse would use to describe their 2009 (again, without asking). Travel, executor, home-office.

8. What were the best books you read this year? Just After Sunset, Columbine, The Thirteenth Tale...among others.

9. With whom were your most valuable relationships? My mom (finally), my father-in-law, my new boss.

10. What was your biggest personal change from January to December of this past year? Trying to get a handle on my stupid eyes.

11. In what way(s) did you grow emotionally? Oh, good Lord, I still haven't processed all of that.

12. In what way(s) did you grow spiritually? I'm pretty burned out at church. It's cyclical, and I'm sure I'll be fine. Me & God are ok.

13. In what way(s) did you grow physically? I did grow. Unfortunately. Also, my eyes are better than they were.

14. In what way(s) did you grow in your relationships with others? Keeping my mouth shut seems to be helpful.

15. What was the most enjoyable area of managing your home? Ignoring chores is enjoyable.

16. What was your most challenging area of home management? When I finally cave in and stop ignoring the chores.

17. What was your single biggest time waster in your life this past year? Facebook. Nothing else even comes close, not even blogging. ;-)

18. What was the best way you used your time this past year? Developing patience.

19. What was the biggest thing you learned this past year? Dignity matters.

20. Create a phrase or statement that describes 2009 for you. Go with your gut.

The Three Threes
1) Three things that have changed since the beginning of the year: new eye doctor, becoming an orphan, new boss.

2) Three things that didn’t change: how much I like my job, my love of family & friends, being a Packer fan.

3) Three things you want to change next year: my cholesterol numbers, my tendency to worry, my procrastinative tendencies.

#4
In 2009, I gained: weight. Sigh.

I lost: my last parent.

I stopped: caring about a lot of things.

I started: playing with stats.

I was hugely satisfied by: my son.

And frustrated by: my son.

I am so embarrassed that I: blew off so many things.

Once again, I: have a pile of crap on my desk here at home to handle.

Once again, I did not: finish the family archives.

The biggest physical difference between me last December and this December is: orphanhood.

The biggest psychological difference between me last December and this December is: not tolerating shoddy medical treatment.

I loved spending time: online.

Why did I spend even two minutes: worrying. [another one I stole from Allison]

I should have spent more time: sitting in the sun.

I regret buying: some stupid clothing choices.

I will never regret buying: this laptop.

I worried: a lot in the middle of the night, as usual.

I didn’t: read enough books.

Breaking in the new director just about drove me crazy.

The most relaxing place I went was bed. And online.

Why did I go to the same eye doctor over and over and expect different results.

The best thing I did for someone else was being present at the moment they needed someone.

The best thing I did for myself was being present at a time and place where it was eminently necessary.

The best thing someone did for me was to let me do what I needed to do.

The one thing I’d like to do again, but do it better, is most of this fall's youth group stuff.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!

Dessert

You Are Chocolate Truffles

You are unpredictable and even a little zany. [zany??] No one knows what to expect when you're around. You have a short attention span and need a lot of variety in your life. You are easily addicted to the things that you love. It's hard for you to only eat one chocolate from the box.

What Chocolate Dessert Are You?

Uh, well, not so much at all.

Random 20-question survey

(from The Survey Place)
Write your answers in your own blog and replace any question that you dislike with a new, original question.

01. Make a list of 5 things you can see: Beast, the TV, the fireplace, Sparky's copy of Brisingr (why is it down here?), green plaid fringy throw,

02. Would you ever get plastic surgery? Only if it was for repair, and then I'd have to think pretty hard about it.

03. What kind of magazines do you read? Here's a list: Real Simple, Ms., Entertainment Weekly, Bookmarks, Presbyterians Today. That's all. I will browse through the crap zines (Us, People, OK! et al.) on airplanes and at the hair salon, too.

04. What's your occupation? I catalog books and answer the odd (oh, so very...) question in a public library.

05. Do you nap a lot? I wish...

06. What sort of computer do you own/are you using? This is a Gateway laptop. Sparky has an eMachine laptop. Beast has a different model Gateway laptop. We've got a couple others, but I CBA to go find out what they are.

07. What's your current fandom/obsession/addiction? Facebook. NCIS.

08. What are you listening to right now? A BigSpot.com commercial on the Discovery channel.

09. What food could you eat every day for weeks and not get sick of? Cheetos.

10. What websites do you always visit when you go online? Bloglines, Blogger, Gmail and Facebook open up automatically when I click on the internet icon on this computer.

11. What was the last thing you bought? Groceries yesterday. Woo hoo: my life is too exciting. But $200 worth of food? That's kind of weird.

12. What was the cutest thing you've seen today? Uhm...? Some cute kids in the library, I guess.

13. Does the weather affect your mood? Hella yes!

14. What is the truest thing about your horoscope sign? Anger issues? High energy?

15. Do you want to learn another language? I'd love to learn to read Greek properly.

16. 6 things you can't live without. Air, water, food, shelter, allergy meds, God.

17. Do you have any siblings? Yup. Three of 'em are still around.

18. What's something you'd like to say to someone right now? "Keep workin' hard, kiddo! You need this job!"

19. What are your looking forward to? Hearing about Sparky's first day (evening, really) of work.

20. If you could have one superpower, what would it be? Invisibility.

Colorful ideas

Your Ideas Are Blue

When you think, you tend to have very detailed, well thought out ideas. You take your time with your thoughts. You are a deep thinker who likes to explore every possibility. Your ideas tend to be very innovative and perceptive. It's amazing what your mind can come up with. [hah!] Your mind is energetic and alert. You are "always on" and thinking of new things. It's hard for you to relax.

What Color Ideas Do You Have?

Not so much, really.

the loser human drifts forever

(Found here)

Do you get skanky when you drink? Nope.
What are your plans for the day? Watch a little more football, finish this, go to bed.
When was the last time you put gas in a car? I gassed up the truck on Thursday.
Do you like the smell of paint? House paint or art paint? I don't mind, within reason.
Is there something you should be doing besides this survey? Prolly.
Do you know anyone who is an amazing dancer? No.
What's the worst thing to happen to you in the last week? I guess the off-and-on headaches. It's been a remarkably good week.
Could you date someone who used poor grammar? Only if English were not their first language.
How important is a sense of humor in a significant other? Imperative.
What did you last get in the mail? Couple of cards, bills, junk.
Where will you next go? To bed. Then work. Eventually, next month, Vegas.
It's Mardi Gras. Have you ever flashed someone for beads? It's not Mardi Gras, and no.
How much would someone have to pay to see you naked? (one person, no pictures, no touching, complete stranger) I suspect I'd have to pay them.
What station is your local rock station? Jack, or the state abbreviations of our state plus the one just over the border.
Do you prefer grape or orange soda? Which has more caffeine?
Name three purple objects in the room you're in? Lots of purple football players on the TV screen. Probably some purple in the Christmas cards on the wall. Definitely some purple ornaments on the tree.
How many people know you have a survey site memes blog? Everyone reading it, plus Beast and Sparky (who never read it).
Who gave you your last hickey? Pretty much has to be Beast.
Where was it? I have no idea.
What was the last party you went to? Outside our house, I don't know--the thing at Andy's last month?
How many TVs are in your house? Two that work.
Do you like picture surveys? Not sure what they are.
Do you immediately notice when your nipples get hard? Depends on the reason behind it happening.
Have you ever met a stripper? Sure, lots of 'em. Oh, wait, an ecdysiast? Well, then, no.
Have you ever stolen produce? Nope.
Have you ever shoplifted at all? Yes, but not for 35 years.

Not as much as I used to be!

You Are Angry

You can't help it... some people drive you completely crazy. You do get angry from time to time. Anger is a totally normal human emotion, and in fact, it can be quite empowering. Just make sure to never let your anger get the better of you. If you're angry for too long, it will negatively impact your life. Feel the anger for a moment, acknowledge it, and let it go. Don't let it hold any power over you.

Are You Cynical, Angry, or Aggressive?

I have some major issues in the "letting it go" area. But if you think I'm angry now, you probably should have known me 15 years ago! whew

Manic Monday

(Link in blogroll)

Were you considered popular in high school? Why or why not?

Hell no! I was a glasses-wearing band-geek brain. So, yeah: not. But in retrospect I had enough friends; I wasn't exactly socially dead.

Did you have an enemy or bully when you were young?

The girl down the street from me, whose big brother was friends with my big brother, was hugely mean to me. Our parents tried multiple times to get us to buddy up, to no avail. Her initials were the same as mine, with a VERY similar (and similarly 'misspelled') first name. I was terrified of the boys in my school, too, but mostly they just ignored me.

If you could go on a road trip with any person (dead or alive) who would you go with and where would you go?

Jesus. Can you imagine him in a motorhome?? lol

Curious as a Cat

(Link in blogroll)

1) What part of your day-to-day life requires the most patience from you?

Being interrupted or having plans or schedules change. I'm not as good at 'going with the flow' as I look like I am. It disrupts my center, though less than it used to. So, I guess, that's progress.

2) What are your favorite winter activities?

Sitting by the fireplace, scraping snow and ice off my truck windows, shivering, staying under the covers in the morning as long as possible to avoid the cold, trying like hell to remember that spring and summer WILL come again....

3) What do you think of high heels?

I love wearing them. I think they are absolutely ridiculous.
This example of mutually opposing concepts brought to you by your average, ordinary woman. No thanks are necessary.

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

Public Domain Photo

Truly weird photo. Definitely a good one for those of us who like a little spooky in our lives. It reminds me of "Macbeth" and midsummer night's eve celebrations.

Mmmm chai

(Found here)

Is there a night you would like to put on repeat, and live it forever? God, that sounds like 100% hell. No thanks.

Have you kissed more than 1 person this year? Well, yeah...of course.

Can you recall the last time you liked someone a lot? I like my father-in-law a lot. Does that count? Otherwise, yeah, I'm a little light in the "liking people a lot" thing right now.

Are you cheating on someone right now? No. CBA

Anyone of the opposite sex been on your mind lately? Of course. I know lotsa boys. One lost his job. One is an adorable 3-week old baby. One just found out he's in line for two jobs. One has been sick. One has been in the hospital. One is a giant PiTA. Those are just the ones off the top of my head.

Someone knocks on your window at 2 am, what do you say? "What the FUCK are you doing on my porch roof??! Hello, 911!"

Will you be in a relationship next month? I hope so. I hope to be in several, to be honest.

Ever had a sleep over with the opposite sex? Hello? I'm married? Not to mention the mother of a son. It's not all it's cut out to be, this "sleep over with the opposite sex."

Who was the last person you talked to on the phone? Uhhhh, maybe the same neighbor I keep mentioning. I haven't been on the phone at all today, except to text.

Anyone you're giving up on? No, but there are always renegotiations of boundaries and priorities going on.

Have you ever fallen asleep with the last person you kissed? Hello? Really--I'm married? So, yeah. Regularly.

What were you doing at 10:30 last night? I think I was doing another one of these.

What mood are you in right now? A little out of sorts.

Will your next kiss be a mistake? Not.

When is the next time you'll hug someone? Sometime this evening.

Has anyone put their arms around you in the past 5 days? Sigh. Hel-LO!? I'm MAR-RIED?! Yes.

Is the last person you kissed mad at you? No, but I haven't exactly been thrilled with him today. He's been a bit of a putz.

Does it bother you when someone lies to you? If I know they do, then yeah.

Do you still talk to the person you were dating 5 months ago?
I wasn’t dating anyone 5 months ago. Not even my husband. lol

Do you like animals? Mostly.

Are you easily bothered? Yes. Clearly. Am I easily irritated? Maybe....

How long have you been on the computer? Maybe half an hour. I dunno.

Are you nice to everyone? I tend to start things that way. Things have a way of changing, though, at times.

Have you ever slept in the same bed as your friend? Oh for fuck's sake...P L O C K!

Who will you be sleeping with tonight? Chances are good that Beast will come to bed at some point tonight, almost definitely after I'm asleep. It's the way we operate lately.

Do you watch "The Hills"? Not even if you paid me!

Wearing any bracelets? I wear bracelets about 5 times a decade. Today is not one of those days.

Do you feel awkward when strangers say hi to you? Strangers frequently say hi to me at work; I've gotten used to it. Lots of people vaguely recognize me when I'm out in public (not at work) because of my job, so...not really.

Are you any different now than you were a year ago? Sure.

Are you taller than your mom? Much. Especially since June.

Is anything upsetting you right now? Nah.

What's the farthest away from home you have ever been? China.

Do you hate being alone? I adore being alone. I love it more than almost anything else on days like today.

Who was the last person you cried in front of? Oh, I cry all the time. Pffft. I think I teared up a bit at church today. Before that, I have no idea.

What's on your agenda for tomorrow?
Wake up, make shopping list, go to the grocery store, take Sparky to Old Navy to exchange several pairs of pants for his size, supervise the cleaning of his room, do some work-related stuff...

What are you doing today?
This. Facebook. I'll take a bath and go to bed at some point.

If you could have one person with you right now, who would it be? JMAO

Does anyone know your passwords other than you? Beast knows a couple of them.

Did you have a good day yesterday? VERY laid-back, kinda boring. It was nice. Plus, I didn't get up till 10.

Where would you like to be right now?
Alone. On a beach with a Tequila Sunrise.

Could you go the rest of your life without smoking a cigarette? Well, yeah as a matter of fact, I could.

Did any particular thing brighten up your day today? Beast's mood has improved this evening and he seems less likely to terminally piss me off.

Next piercing? Likely to be an IV, and not anytime real soon.

How has the past week been for you? Pretty good.

Do you currently have a hickey? ....AM MAR-RIED! What are the odds?!

Pick a word that starts with the second letter of your first name: Octopus (or Aardvark if we're going by pseudonyms).

One thing you're looking forward to? Vegas, baby!

Could you go out in public looking like you do now? Sure, but my feet would be idiotically cold in about 5 seconds, seeing as I'm wearing moccasins.

Do you hate the last person you kissed? Nah.

When was the last time you wanted to punch someone in their face? Today. OK, seriously? It's been awhile.

Would you rather be a hobbit, elf, dwarf, vampire, werewolf, mermaid, magician or unicorn? I'm sticking with human. Sorry. Not a Tolkien-aholic.

What's your favorite pattern/print? Stripes. Preferably same color on same color: blue on blue, or whatever.

If you could write a letter to your younger self, what would the introduction look like? Enjoy yourself NOW!

If you have a best friend, tell us a little about them: "If"? Right. Uhm...I'd rather not. I'd have to pick one from my little group of three BFFs.

Think back on a time when you were really really happy. Can you describe your exact feelings? No, except to say that I'm aware of the stupid grin on my face when I'm happy. And I tend to whoop when I laugh really hard.

What is your favorite musical instrument? To listen to: cello, or trombone. To play, flute.

Who is your favorite fictional character? Laura Ingalls. Or Jane Eyre.

Why do people watch so much TV? In my case, pure unadulterated laziness.

Why are there so many unsuccessful book-to-movie translations? Because the book changes in its interaction with each individual reader. Very meta.

Are you afraid of the dark? Nope.

If you could, would you become immortal? ...TECHnically...depending on your beliefs...

What do you like most about yourself? I'm more tolerant of little stuff than it probably sounds like on this blog.

How about something you'd like to change about yourself? My weight. Yes, it's shallow, but I need to get my cholesterol under control this year.

What does it take for you to be happy? Being surrounded by genuine-ness.

If it was a choice between saving a thousand people you don't know or saving your three best friends, what would you do? I would need more details here. Are my friends with me, or the people I don't know, or am I alone? How are they going to die? Is this an immediate result of my decision or something that will happen over time?

What do you hate more than anything? Jumping to conclusions.

What would you rather never have to do: sleep, eat, or breathe? Breathe. It would probably take care of my allergies.

What is a talent you'd dearly like to have? Photographic memory.

Compare the love you have (or would like to have) to a famous romance: The Honeymooners...or I Love Lucy...comes closest.

What do you think will happen to you when you die? A big freakin' party, and then I don't know. Hopefully, there is a heaven.

Do you hate it when you think that someone's calling for your boyfriend/girlfriend across the way when it's really somebody else? I am not part of whatever hallucination this is.

What was the farthest place you had to travel by foot recently? Haven't been for a walk in quite awhile. Too much snow and ice.

Who were the last three people of the opposite sex you hugged? Toms 1, 2 and 3.

Have you ever looked for something that was in your hand/nearby? All the time.

Do you remember the last thing you "aww'd" at? Olivia at church this morning.

Why are you feeling the way that you are feeling right now? My head sorta hurts and I'm kinda bored.

When was the last time you prank called somebody? Close to 35 years.

Have you gotten gum stuck in your hair before? Yup. Dumb.

Did you have anything to eat for lunch today? Culvers.

What was the last movie you watched with talking animals? Chicken Run. About a year ago.

Can you handle a relationship without amazing sex? Most of my relationships have no sexual component whatsoever. So, yes.

Have you run into a pole before? Fuck. Yes.

On this same month one year ago, were you single? Not bloody likely.

Is there anyone that you like at the moment? Nope.

Was the last animal you touched/pet a household pet? Yes, I tend to avoid touching animals to whom I have not yet been introduced properly.

What holiday do you always dread the most every year? 4th of July. Moronic neighbors.

Who was the last person to put their arm around your shoulder? Uhhh, hmmm? If these is distinct from a hug, then it was probably someone last Sunday at church.

Have you ever cried from missing somebody so badly? Oh yeah. Got a little teary earlier this week over my mom.

What "minor problem" do you have that's been bothering you for a while? Back to the weight thing.

Ever walked into the opposite sex's restroom by accident? Yup.

Do you have a "thing" for a celebrity? Yup. Well, really, it's more the character he plays on TV. I have utmost respect for the fact that he has been married about as long as I have.

When was the last time someone said you "looked cute with someone" while near someone? I don't think I've done "cute" since I was 6.

Have you kissed anybody today? Yes.

Is your best friend still a virgin? {{guffaw}}

Where did you last order Chinese food/take-out? Thursday night. Just finished up the leftovers before I started this.

What was your dream last night? I have no memory of my dreams last night. THANK GOD!

During this time right now but 24 hours ago, what were you doing? Facebooking, I think.

Can you recite the alphabet backwards perfectly? I can even sing it backwards! Mad skilz

Ever liked someone even while you were taken all the while? That pretty much describes the situation with my first boyfriend, and even more dysfunctionally I had the hots for his brother.

Who is the last person you high-fived? Beast this morning at church when Olivia wouldn't do it for him.

What do you feel about "PDA"? Kissing is fine, or a hug. Tongues and groping is not.

Have you ever tried to push open a door that said pull? Yup.

Be honest, who do you miss at this very moment and would love to see? Jen

Sunday Stealing

(Link in blogroll)
The Final Week of 2009 Meme

1. What did you do in 2009 that you'd never done before?

Handled life with a bit more aplomb, a little more steadiness, and less anger (for the most part).

2. Did you keep your new years' resolutions, and will you make more for next year?

I don't do resolutions. Just another way for me to feel inadequate.

3. How will you be spending New Year's Eve?

Probably about where I am right now: sitting on the sofa. Maybe taking apart the Christmas tree, or at least organizing all the boxes.

4. Did anyone close to you die?

My mom. A co-worker. A different co-worker's father. It was a rough June (they all died within three weeks of each other.

5. What countries did you visit?

I didn't have a vacation this year, so ... yeah. Just the USA. I did have two batches of Brits staying here, though, if that buys me anything.

6. What would you like to have in 2010 that you lacked in 2009?

Hah. A calm life. The ability of planning more than a week in advance.

7. What date from 2009 will remain etched upon your memory, and why?

June 30. My mom died.

8. What was your biggest achievement of the year?

Making nice with my new boss. She seems to think I actually know what I'm doing, scarily enough.

9. What was your biggest failure?

Getting many projects done. I didn't even start most of them. Sad.

10. Did you suffer illness or injury?

It's been a remarkably healthy year except for some minor colds and such.

11. What was the best thing you bought?

Sparky's bass+amp.

12. Where did most of your money go?

Mortgage. That's probably 30% of our monthly money. At least. Honestly: I have no idea what our monthly budget looks like. ...sigh...

13. What song will always remind you of 2009?

Ozzy's "Crazy Train." Or "Thunderstruck" (AC/DC). Both because of Sparky. [you need to also know that I'm not really a hard rock fan]

14. What do you wish you'd done more of?

Sitting in the sun.

15. What do you wish you'd done less of?

Worrying.

16. What was your favourite TV program?

CSI. And then Amy introduced me to NCIS, which we've powered through bigtime.

17. Do you hate anyone now that you didn't hate this time last year?

Nope.

18. What was the best book you read?

Just After Sunset by Stephen King.

19. What was your greatest musical discovery?

The Ting Tings, and Mika.

20. What was your favorite film of this year?

I think I only saw one in the theater, which would be the latest Harry Potter.

21. What did you do on your birthday?

We had just returned from my mom's memorial service, so I expect I was just treading water. It was not a good week for my family-at-large; my sister was stranded because of her health and things were just fubar in general.

22. What kept you sane?

Beast, books, blogs.

23. Who did you miss?

Dad.

24. Who was the best new person you met?

I can't think of anyone new I met besides my new boss.

25. Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2009:

Listen very carefully. Do the right thing, whether it's hard or not.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, MOM!

Unconscious Mutterings

(Link in blogroll)

1. Classified :: ...ads
2. Praised :: Worshipped
3. Censored :: Banned
4. 2010 :: New Year
5. Lamp :: Lady With the...
6. Alternate :: Take turns
7. Script :: Drama
8. Handsome :: Hot
9. Eager :: Excited
10. Meeting :: Conference

Can't think

(Found here)

What is on your bed right now? Fresh sheets, clean laundry, and (soon) ME!

When was the last time you threw up? Not for awhile. Thank God.

What's your favorite word or phrase? "Actually..."

Name 3 people who made you smile today? Mike Rowe, FIL, Sparky.

What were you doing at 8 a.m. this morning? Sleeping.

What were you doing 30 minutes ago? Another meme.

What is your favorite holiday? Thanksgiving.

Have you ever been to another country? Several.

What is the last thing you said aloud? "oohhg, excuse me!"

What is the best ice cream flavor? Peppermint

What was the last thing you had to drink? I'm drinking DDP right now.

What are you wearing right now? Jeans, Christmas sox, a too-warm-for-me wool sweater. Oh, and underwear, rings and my glasses.

What was th e last thing you ate? Chocolate kiss

Have you bought any new clothing items this week? Technically I haven't; I shopped at Old Navy last Friday.

When was the last time you ran? Last weekend, but not very far. Was more of a trot, too. I just don't run often.

What's the last sporting event you watched? College football this afternoon.

If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go? Ydra.

Who is the last person you sent a comment/message on myspace? Don't use MySpace.

Ever go camping? Yes. Never again, not by choice.

Do you have a tan? It's December in the snow-belt and I'm northern European. What do you think??

Have you ever lost anything down a toilet? Nope.

What is your guilty pleasure? Stupid Facebook games, and meming.

Do you use smiley faces on the computer a lot? Prolly more than I reasonably should.

Do you drink your soda from a straw? Only at restaurants.

What did your last text message say? Incoming: "Just leaving. Should be home in 20-30 minutes. Roads aren't horrible, but not great either. Luv ya!"

Outgoing: "OK. Thx for the update. Be safe. :-*"

Are you someone's best friend? Yup.

What are you doing tomorrow? Church. Football. Otherwise {shrug} not sure.

Where is your mom right now? ...uhhhh... Heaven?

Look to your left, what do you see? The Christmas tree, the end table with a shitload of crap stacked on it...

What color is your watch? My cell phone tells me the time, so I stopped wearing a watch.

What do you think of when you think of Australia? Red, warm, cool animals, nice people.

Ever ridden on a roller coaster? OMG. Yes. Even I am not that lame-o.

What is your birthstone? Topaz. Yuck.

Do you go in at a fast food place or just hit the drive thru? Drive through.

Do you have any friends on MySpace that you actually hate? ...bloody MySpace! I have no friends on MySpace because I don't use it!

Do you have a dog? No. ...sigh

Last person you talked to on the phone? Next door neighbor.

Any plans today? Wash my face, brush my teeth, change into jammies, sleep.

Are you happy? Pretty much.

Where are you right now? On the sofa with the recliner back.

Biggest annoyance in your life right now? My lack of motivation.

Last song listened to? Hell, I dunno! Some Christmas song or another.

Last movie you saw? Part of the latest Batman movie.

Are you allergic to anything? Dogs, cats, some grasses, corn pollen, god knows what else.

Favorite pair of shoes you wear all the time? I have loads of shoes. Right now, I love 'em all. Have weeded out all the shoes I dislike.

Are you jealous of anyone? Not really, no.

Are you married? Yup.

Is anyone jealous of you? Probably. I dunno.

Do any of your friends have children? Many of my friends do.

Do you eat healthy? No. I eat food. (and not always very healthy food)

What do you usually do during the day? Work, play, work, play, sleep.

Do you hate anyone right now? ...uhmm, still no.

Do you use the word 'hello' daily? That, or some variant of it: hi, hey, howdy...

How many kids do you want when you're older? Just the one of my own, but I'll borrow other people's if offered.

How did you get one of your scars? Surgery.

Middle

You Are Wise and Thoughtful

You are the type of person who believes in seeking the truth - no matter how painful it may be. You question everything and everyone. You even try to question your own actions and beliefs every day. You are curious about the world. You think in terms of ideas and theories, and you're open to [almost] any new perspective. You can get a bit obsessed and involved with your personal interests. You would make a good professor.

What Does Your Middle Name Say About You?

I'm not particularly open to stupid perspectives, however!

Who knows

(Found here)

Are you strong enough for this survey? We'll see, eh?

Have you ever taken a picture of yourself kissing someone? Not sure. I don't remember one, anyway.

Do you want to be in a relationship with someone? And the infamous "plock" shows its face already....

Are you someone who's an asshole because you're so honest? I try not to be asshole-ish in my honesty.

Have you ever said you loved someone when you didn't mean it? I've said it knowing that our definitions of the word were miles apart.

What is your opinion on no sex before marriage? I think it has certain positive aspects for young people, but it's really no one's business as long as no one gets sick or pregnant.

Was your last kiss perfect? Given the circumstances, yes.

Have you ever wanted to never give up on someone? Well, yeah, after 46 years, this has come up at least once. {eyeroll}

Would you push someone off a cliff if you had the chance? I wouldn't plan ahead for the possibility, but in the heat of the moment there are a few people I would be tempted to send over, yes.

Have you ever broken someone's heart? Welcome to life. Yes. If you are a parent, have parents, siblings, friends...yeah. Been there.

Have you ever liked someone who didn't like you back? 'course!

Have you ever thought something would work out but they used you? Seems a relative constant over time.

Is this survey hard for you? It's not helping my headache, but nothing really is, so.... Carry on:

Would you ever want to be a supermodel? Uh, I'd rather dig ditches.

Do you tell white lies? See comment re assholery above. Yes, I do tell lies.

Do you scratch when and where you want to scratch? Not always. Of course.

How do you handle a break up? With dismay and sorrow.

What was the last thing you ate? Scots shortbread.

Have you ever accidentally eaten an insect? They do fly right in sometimes, don't they. Yes.

Do daddy long legs freak you out? Not really. I am grateful for the work they do.

Have you ever cleaned up someone elses vomit? I have a kid, among other reasons. Of course I have.

Do you kiss your pets on the mouth? It freaks out the guinea pig, so I've stopped trying.

Would you ever work in a retirement home? I totally do not have the patience or emotional wherewithal for it.

Have you ever had to dial 911 before? Yes.

When was the last time you had ice cream? Gotta be at least 4 months....

Do you honestly hate anyone? I sort of dishonestly hate someone. Does that work for you?

Do you prefer morning or night? Most of the time, morning.

Do you swear a lot? Fuckin' A man!!

Can you whistle? Yes. I. Can. Can you? People don't whistle as much any more...sad.

Could you ever picture yourself on a reality television show? Not so much, no.

What was the last movie you watched? Beast was watching the latest Batman movie, again, last night.

Do you drink more apple or orange juice? Apple

Have you spoken to your Father today? Well, with that capitalization, yes. Small 'f' father, that's a little harder to do.

What is bothering you right now? My head hurts. Day 3. So irritating.

Have you ever kissed someone with braces? I kiss with my lips, not my teeth. Weirdo.

When was the last time you cried? ...been awhile.

Where did you last go out to eat? Six Balls, or maybe Jena-Ps. Can't remember.

What time did you go to sleep last night? It was 11-something. I don't remember precisely.

Do you regret anything you've done this year? Always room for regret. I try not to dwell on them, but they are around.

What is the most fun that you've had in the past week? Working on Wednesday was fun. Working on the jigsaw this wee was fun too.

Are you waiting on anything? I'm just waiting on a friend. And yes.

Do you think that you will be married within ten years? I'm married now, so...yeah.

Do you like waking up to new texts in the morning? It beats waking up to the alarm clock, I guess.

Are you currently angry about anything? Nah.

What was your last phone conversation about and who was it with? Cindy called to find out what the weather was like and to be sure her house was still standing.

Do you feel like anyone's taking you for granted? I have a teenage son: what do you think?

Do you regret anything you've done this week? Hello? Haven't we been here already? Yes, ok, YES!

Will you be up before 7am tomorrow? Probably not.

Where did you buy the shirt you're wearing right now? I think it was a gift. It's VERY warm, and itchier than heck, but it's very pretty.

Would you ever tattoo your significant other's name on yourself? I don't really think that's likely.

Saturday 9

(Link in blogroll)
Sam's Last Stand of 2009

1. What did you think of 2009?

I give it a D-. It sucked. Maybe not quite as much as 2008, but pretty damn close!

2. What do you think was the news story of the year?

I'm going with the most ink (virtual or actual) expended: Michael Jackson's death and all the stuff since then about him. However, I think the most important news stories for us all have been about the economy.

3. What happened this year that you never want to hear another word about?

People so desperate for validation that they'll literally try anything to get on TV. (Balloon Boy, White House Party Crashers, etc.)

4. What was your favorite song of 2009?

Depends on my mood but I like "Boom Boom Pow" (Black Eyed Peas), "I'll Go Crazy If I Don't Go Crazy Tonight" and "Get On Your Boots" (U2), and "Single Ladies" (Beyonce) to name a few.

5. What did you accomplish this year?

I think my temper was generally more under control. I've acquitted myself very well in my new boss's eyes. Becoming an "official orphan" has provided some gravitas to my life too--not that I "did" anything to "accomplish" that. Being with my mom for the last few days of her life was something I treasure. Also, I got back into bell choir.

6. Did you learn anything new this year?

Life really does carry on around you as things go completely to hell personally.

7. What are you looking forward to in the new year?

I'm probably joining a knitting group. Sparky's senior year in high school starts in the fall. Seeing my great-nephew (maybe in March) will be wonderful.

8. What are your plans for New Year's Eve?

Stay home, watch TV, wait for the local yahoos to finish setting off fireworks at midnight, go to bed.

9. What's the best thing you ever did on a New Year's Eve?

We have a delightful picture of Sparky "staying awake" on New Year's Eve 1999 when he was 6. He lasted till 11ish, and then crashed out in the papa-san chair in his Pooh slippers and jammies, with a book on his lap. Too adorable.

Patrick's Place

(Link in blogroll)
Saturday 6

1. What’s the most cluttered room of your home?

Two weeks ago, it was the office, no contest. Right now, it's the kitchen. Or maybe Beast's workroom, which is absolutely and literally stacked with jun...stuff.

2. At work, compared to your co-workers, is your desk more cluttered, less cluttered, or about the same?

Less. It's a point of pride for me. Shhh, don't tell!

3. How long do you keep newspapers after you’ve read them?

I don't read 'em. Beast keeps 'em in the recycle bin till there's enough to bundle up and take out to the curb for pickup, about once a week or so.

4. Take the quiz: How Cluttered is Your Mind?

When I took this the last time, I was a bigger mess than today, but not tragically so.

Your Mind is 39% Cluttered

Your mind is very free. You've liberated yourself from most some worries and problems. And even if something does start to clutter your mind, you're easily able to let it go. [eventually]

How Cluttered is Your Mind?

OK, not all that accurate, but not all that off, either.

5. How much of your clutter is all in your head: are you more likely to hang on to things you should just let go of?

Yes, I am more prone to keeping unhelpful thoughts than physical 'stuff', but I'm getting better, as the results of the quiz in #4 indicate. On the other hand, time-of-year may play a part in the difference as well.

6. What’s more cluttered: your bedroom closet or your car’s trunk?

I drive a mini pickup. DEFINITELY my closet!

Friday Fill-Ins

(Link in blogroll)

1. My boots need to be cleaned and polished; the salt is doing a number on them already.
2. Sparky is probably going to be alive most of this century.
3. Imitation may be the sincerest form of flattery, but I find it really annoying.
4. Can we just sit around and talk?
5. I'd like the sun to come out every day for the rest of the year. (and I'm bound to be very disappointed too)
6. Can't we just get over it?
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to watching football and vegging out, tomorrow my plans include a meeting and returning some of Sparky's gifts for the right size, and Sunday, I want to get rid of the rest of the stupid fundraiser stuff at church!

The rest of the Christmas Blogthings

You Are Santa Claus

You are an optimistic and generous soul. It wouldn't be wrong to call you happy-go-lucky. It lifts your spirit to brighten someone else's day, especially if this person is a child. When it comes to helping others, you have boundless energy. And you admit that you sometimes put yourself last. You'll put in the time to make sure that everyone is happy and content. You don't mind working long hours to bring others a little joy.

What Christmas Character Are You?

Christmas without any kids around is kinda boring and weird. But I'm not happy-go-lucky--perish the thought!--and I definitely do NOT have boundless energy. + + + + + + + +

You Are Christmas Eve

You are a patient person, and you would agree that anticipation is sometimes better than the main event. There's something magical about the night before Christmas - when it feels like anything could happen! You are a somewhat quiet and spiritual person. You need a lot of alone time to process what's going on around you. You are optimistic and idealistic. You can't help but feel like things are going to work out.

Are You Christmas Eve or Christmas Day?

I do love most of the family traditions around Christmas Eve. And much of the rest of this is accurate too. + + + + + + + +

You Are Baking Cookies

You are an indulgent and generous person during the holidays. It's important to you that everyone you know is taken care of... including yourself! You are always going that extra mile to make people feel loved this time of year. From baking delicious cookies to picking out perfect presents, you do a better job than Santa himself!

What Part of Christmas Are You?

F A I L (for the most part).

Friday 5

(Link in blogroll)
Gifts

1. How likely are you to return or exchange a gift you don’t like?

Depends on how easy it is to return. If it's a hassle, I'll either hold onto it and regift it, or just use it. It also depends on who gave it to me. If it's someone I like, I'll probably keep it around for awhile.

2. Who is the most gifted person you know?

Again, it depends. Most of the people I know are gifted in very differing ways. Some people are good at things I value more highly, but that doesn't mean they are (necessarily) more gifted.

3. Of gifts you gave this year, which was really the closest to perfect for the recipient?

I did well with Sparky this year: Anime convention pass, music magazine subscription, and LOTS of (very needed) clothes. He's happy at least.

4. What’s your favorite kind of gift to receive?

Time and patience. Hands-down, best gift.

5. What’s your favorite kind of gift to give?

Easy to find, and for someone who is going to appreciate it. Appreciation is in itself a gift, to the giver.

Color

You Are Red

You are a passionate, outgoing, and intense person. You are naturally joyful. However, you tend to be quite intense, and your temper is easy to spark. You are confident and a real go-getter. You don’t fear or expect failure. You are a very lucky person. You are destined to be prosperous – if you aren’t already.

Are You Red or Green?

Not sure of the validity of this in any way shape or form, but...ok.

Christmas Meme #8

(from Alison. Shocked?)

Name 5 Favorite Christmas Songs

1. Silent Night (prefer the Stevie Nicks version outside of church)
2. Christmas (Baby Please Come Home) -- U2
3. O Holy Night (by almost any tenor, not a soprano)
4. The First Noel (it makes me laugh, because it reminds me of making Mom laugh)
5. The 12 Pains of Christmas

Name 4 Gifts You Plan To Buy Bought For Others.

1. Subscription to Bass Player
2. Star Trek ornaments (3) (yes, I'm a geek)
3. Books. Yes, I know that's a big stretch for me
4. Calendars. Lots of 'em

Name 3 Things On Your Christmas Wish List.

1. Peace
2. Quiet
3. Sleep

What 2 Places Do You Plan To Be On Christmas?

1. In bed, asleep
2. On the couch, playing with my new toys

What Is 1 Important Person, Place or Thing You Love About Christmas?

1. Uhm, hello? Jesus

Holiday personality

Your Holiday Personality is Caring

Your holidays are all about connecting and sharing. This is a sacred time of year, and you like to spend it with those who are special to you. You like to make sure everyone around you is comfortable, full of love (and goodies!), and healthy. You love to surprise people with the best Christmas gifts ever. You will search high and low for that perfect present. You are always reflecting on the true meaning behind the holidays. You appreciate all that you have been given in this world.

What's Your Holiday Personality?

Pretty close.

Christmas Meme #7

(from Allison yet again)

1. Hot chocolate or apple cider? cider, with caramel and nutmeg in it

2. Turkey or Ham? Whatever someone else cooks...

3. Do you get a Fake or Real you cut it yourself Christmas tree? Fake. I'm intrigued by the notion of a "Fake you cut it yourself tree."

4. Decorations on the outside of your house? No. Not my house.

5. Snowball fights or sledding? Yeah, no.

6. Do you enjoy going downtown shopping? I don't mind going downtown to wander around, but shopping is not my thing.

7. Favorite Christmas song? Silent Night. Maybe O Holy Night.

8. How do you feel about Christmas movies? I could easily go the rest of my life without seeing one, honestly.

9. When is it too early to start listening to Christmas music? Theologically, we aren't supposed to start Christmas hymns till Christmas Eve and then only sing them through Epiphany. I'm ok, with that.

10. Stockings before or after presents? Before!

11. Carolers, do you or do you not watch and listen to them? Yes, I watch and listen. And sometimes participate.

12. Go to someone else’s house or they come to you? We usually stay here.

13. Do you read the Christmas Story? ...at church, yes.

14. What do you do after presents and dinner? OK, here's my Christmas morning: get up about 7. Start the coffee, if appropriate. Read Santa's note. Turn on Christmas music. Check to see if Jesus arrived in the creche. Light the Christmas candle. Take down stockings. Start opening presents in stockings. Take pictures throughout. Move on to larger gifts under the tree. Blow out Christmas candle Clean up paper. Make list of what everyone got (for thank yous). Break out the candy and cookies, and do whatever people want to do for the rest of the day, noshing as we feel the need. There is no "dinner" at my house. Hell no, I'm not cooking on Christmas!

15. What is your favorite holiday smell? Pine.

16. Ice skating or walking around the mall? Staying home, thanks.

17. Do you open a present or presents on Christmas Eve, or wait until Christmas day? We've split the family custom so that we each get to choose one gift under the tree on Christmas Eve, and do the rest on Christmas morning.

18. Favorite Christmas memory? The Barbie Dream House year...

19. Favorite Part about winter? SPRING! [I do like a good blizzard, but only if I'm home and don't need to go out in it, or leave the house for a couple of days afterwards.]

20. Ever been kissed under mistletoe? Yup.

Wishin'

Your Holiday Wish is Peace on Earth

You don't need anything personally during the holidays. You're not the materialistic type. All you ask for is a little peace. At home, while you're out and about, and for the world at large. You believe that there's too much human suffering and pain. And you're doing what you can to change it. It just wouldn't feel right for you to focus on presents. You think the holidays are so much more than what's under the tree.

What's Your Holiday Wish?

Blogthings: Free Quizzes for Everyone

I don't think we can get a better answer for me than this.

Christmas Meme #6

(My usual supplier strikes again)

Yay or.. Ugh
1. Holiday shopping? ugh

2. Icy roads? ugh

3. Holiday catalogs. ugh

4. Christmas carolers. yay (only if they can sing)

5. Mall Santas? yay (but you can keep the kids and their parents)

6. Salvation Army Santas? yay (ditto above)

7. Blizzards? yay (assuming I have no where I have to go)

8. 24/7 Holiday radio? ugh

9. Freezing cold? ugh

10. Setting up the tree? yay

11. Wrapping presents? yay

12. Visiting/seeing family? yay

13. Television holiday specials. ugh

14. Free mint red/white candy? yay

15. Belief in Santa Claus? yay

16. Chocolate countdown advent calendar? yay

17. Peeking at your gifts (or by accident)? ugh

18. Kissing Santa under the mistletoe? ugh

19. Decorated houses? yay

20. Extreme decorated houses? yay

21. White Christmas morning? yay

22. Searching for ornaments in the attic? yay [ours aren't in the attic, and they are all together, so it's not really very traumatic]

23. Santa knowing when you’re sleeping and awake? ugh (creeepy)

Christmas Meme #5

(from Kwizgiver, of course)

Have You Ever?
1. Built a snowman? Yup.

2. Heard Santa’s sleigh? Nope.

3. Seen Santa & Rudolph in the sky? Nope.

4. Sat on Santa’s lap? I think so, maybe once.

5. Shoveled the driveway/sidewalk? Whenever Beast is out of town, so quite a lot. Up until the last couple of years, Sparky was not real helpful in this area.

6. Made snow angels? Not since Sparky was little.

7. Built a fort/igloo? No.

8. Written a Christmas list? Yep. Not this year though.

9. Written a letter to Santa? Yes. I've also written a letter from Santa.

10. Left cookies/milk for Santa & reindeer? Still do. Sparky is a traditionalist. Who'd've thought.

11. Caught a snowflake on your tongue? Yes.

12. Gone caroling? Not for a really long time. I miss it.

13. Gotten hurt during the winter season? Not because of winter, no.

14. Gone ice skating/sledding? Not for many years. Never again, either.

15. Kissed under a mistletoe? Yes, but not for awhile. We don't buy mistletoe very often.

16. Experienced/seen a miracle happen? Yes, indeed.

17. Get everything you wanted for Christmas? In the last couple of years, yes.

18. Cooked/baked Christmas goodies? Just finished my first batch in two years.

Christmas Meme #4

(Link in blogroll)
The Most Annoying Christmas Meme Ever

1. What is the most annoying Christmas song?

While I usually like it the first time I hear it, "The Twelve Days of Christmas" gets old very quickly thereafter.

2. Name one annoying thing that happens to you each time you get together with your family during the holidays.

My niece acts like a moron. It will happen; it's only a question of what it will be this time.

3. What is eggnog? Think about it. Does anybody really know?

Take your pick here. I think I'll go pour a glass for myself now. Yum.

4. Don't take this personally but there are lots of fruitcakes walking around. Have you encountered any real live nuts lately?

Every day at work. We even have a couple of fruits who arrive regularly. Every day. Of the year. And I'm not ]only talking about other employees. [ba dum bum}

5. Why were the nine Lords a'leaping in those annoying tights???!

I think they were trying to dance, actually. Typical: men who can't dance.

6. What is the most annoying Christmas gift you've ever received? What did you do with it??

I can't think of anything that was overly annoying. If I don't like something, I tend to get rid of it ASAP.

7. Let's admit it: Christmas, with all its splendor and goodwill, can also be a pain in the royal patootie. How do you plan to circumvent annoyances this year and enjoy the season?

I'm not doing anything I don't want to do. And if something doesn't get done, I don't really sweat it.

Christmas Meme #4

(from Allison)
This or That

1. Candy cane or peppermint patties? Candy cane, but I really prefer Sourpatch Kids

2. Sugar or gingerbread cookies? Sugar cookies, no contest

3. Tinsel or beaded strands? Tinsel

4. Multi-colored or same-colored lights? Multi

5. Flashing or still lights? Still

6. Wreaths or mistletoe/holly? Wreaths

7. Rudolph or Frosty? Rudolph (do NOT like Frosty)

8. Sledding or snowball fights? Brrr, neither. Sleigh rides are ok though.

9. Snow or ice/icicles? Snow

10. Snow hat or earmuffs? Hat

11. Getting or giving? Each in its time

12. Snow days or plow trucks? Snow days (because that's my hint that I can stay home too!)

13. Stockings or presents? Stockings

14. Cookies & milk or letter to Santa? We do both

15. Christmas Eve or Christmas Day? Christmas Eve (really freakin' tired of this question guys)

16. Log Burning Channel or real thing? Real. We do have a fireplace, by the way. ;-)

17. Cards or emails? Cards

18. Shoveling or cleaning off the car? Car, because mine is in the garage during snow most of the time.

19. The Inn’s manger or the animals? What??

20. Mary & Joseph or The Wise Men? What??

21. Hot cocoa or eggnog? Eggnog

22. Jack Frost or Little Drummer Boy? Drummer

Cards

You Are a Vintage Christmas Card

You find Christmas to be the most peaceful time of the year. The holidays relax you. Some people may get stressed out or frazzled, but not you. It's like you're celebrating a completely different holiday. You take pleasure in the small things the holiday season has to offer. Candy canes. Happy children. Your favorite Christmas music. Christmas may be more complicated than it used to be, but you refuse to get mixed up in the drama. You're bringing simple holidays back.

What Kind of Christmas Card Are You?

Well, this is not very accurate....

Sunday Stealing

(Link in blogroll)
Lola's Holiday Meme

1. What is your favorite holiday show/animated show? Probably the (original) Grinch.

2. What holiday character do you think you're most like? Max. I always feel a little "over-antlered" about this point in the season.

3. What holiday character does your spouse think you're most like? [...lengthy pause...] "Clarice." Because he travels a lot and I'm always waiting patiently at home. [zOMG--I'm cracking up here]

4. Favorite Christmas/holiday song? "Silent Night"

5. Most hated Christmas/holiday song? Still sticking with "Backdoor Santa"

6. If you have an all holiday music radio station when do you start listening to it? Whenever Beast has it on. I don't choose it, believe me.

7. If you have an all holiday music radio station do you love it or hate it? I like it for the days just before Christmas. I don't love it the rest of the time.

8. Have you ever wrapped yourself as a Christmas present? Not...precisely.

9. Who is Rudolf The Red Nosed Reindeer's father? Uhm...does it matter.

10. Do you drive your neighborhood or one near you at night to look at other people's holiday decorations? We usually do this on Christmas Eve before/after church and dinner.

11. When you see a heavily decorated house do you think, 'oh that's lovely'? Or do you think, 'oh criminy, that looks like Christmas threw up all over their lawn'? I think about how high their utility bills must be this month as I ooh and aah.

12. Are you counting the days to Christmas with excited anticipation or dread? Mostly anticipation. It helps that all I have left is some low-stress shopping and wrapping and one day of work.

13. When was the last time you had your photo taken with Santa? Did you sit on his lap? Gah. It's probably been a solid 35 years or more.

14. Do you make a Christmas list for your spouse or significant other or do you rely on them to pick your gift(s) without a clue from you? A little of both. We usually decide on one big gift for both of us and stocking stuffers.

15. When do you put up your tree? Between Thanksgiving and Christmas. (sorry) This year it was mid-month.

16. Real or fake? Trees: real. Most other things: real.

17. When do you take your tree down? We shoot for the weekend after New Year's Day, but don't always make that deadline.

18. Do you shop the day after Christmas sales? What do you shop for? I don't shop that day. I do look at the cheapy stuff within a week after though, but only somewhat desultorily.

19. Is your work/office having a holiday party this year? Will you attend? Been there/done that 3 weeks ago. And this year I did attend.

20. Do you have your New Year's Eve plans set yet? No, but I'm 99.9% sure they will involve sitting in the living room watching local coverage of parties until midnight and then listening to our (redneck) neighbors fireworks before hitting the sheets. Boring. Yup.

Xmas tree

You Are Warmly Compassionate

During the holidays, you take time out for yourself and the people that you love the most. You try not to get caught up in the hustle and bustle. You prefer to stay inside your warm home as much as possible. You believe that the holidays are all about the little things. Being and reconnecting with those closest to you. People are important to you, not gifts. Love is the best gift in the world.

The Christmas Tree Test

Patrick's Place

(Link in blogroll)
Sunday 7

Name the seven most memorable news photographs (by number) from the list of 50 linked [here].

1. 2--Still as shocking now as it was the day I saw it in the newspaper. Absolutely terrifying.
2. 5--This is not the image that is burned into my memory, but it's the closest one of that horrible day.
3. 8--She and her sisters are why we're fighting in Afghanistan. I try to remember that.
4. 20--Amazing, unreal, beautiful. There was some of that this decade.
5. 36--This one brings so many questions to my mind, and again the look of terror on this little guy's face is heartbreaking.
6. 40--About freakin' time!
7. 42--So many pictures of refugees include mothers and children. I don't remember too many fathers and children. Certainly not a father so fiercely determined.

I automatically excluded anything with Bush, anything inane (sports, Paris Hilton--wtf??--etc.), and couldn't bring myself to link to any of the blocked ones, although I looked at them all. I will be having nightmares about #33, and some of the others I didn't choose as well.

Unconscious Mutterings

(Link in blogroll)

1. Interest :: ...Charges
2. Chase :: Follow
3. Itch :: Scratch
4. Soothe :: Calm
5. Lamp :: Light
6. Tutor :: Teach
7. Nicole :: Kidman R. (a friend of ours)
8. Sloth :: Laziness
9. Burn :: Char
10. Bug :: Pester

Emphatic

You Love the Holidays

You enjoy every aspect of the holidays, but you don't go overboard. You believe that it's important to relax this time of year. You get into the holiday spirt, and you enjoy every activity - from baking cookies to shopping for personalized gifts. That being said, the holidays are a lot of work. You're both happy to see them come and happy to see them go. You're a bit of a traditionalist. You think the holidays start too soon and are a bit too commercial. You wish that people understood the true meaning of the season.

How Much Do You Love the Holidays?

OK, I wouldn't say I "love" the holidays, but the description is relatively close.

Christmas Meme #3

(swiped from The Usual Source)

1. Getting kissed under the mistletoe or in the snow? It's way more likely to happen in snow because we haven't bought mistletoe in years and years.

2. Santa or Rudolph? Santa, by a nose. ( ha ha ha, I crack myself up)

3. Stocking or presents? Stocking, especially this year: it's the only gifts I'm getting. OK, Sparky will have something for me but that's it.

4. Egg nog or hot cider? Egg nog. Must get some ASAP.

5. Angel or Star? Star.

6. Decorating the tree or putting lights on the outside? We never do outside lights, so tree if only by default.

7. Warm fires or sleigh rides? Fire after a sleigh ride. I actually kind of like sleigh/carriage rides.

8. Expensive presents or presents that come from the heart? Expensive presents that come from the heart!

9. Snow ball fight or snowman? Snowman.

10. Will you be getting coal or presents? Presents. Does anyone know anyone who has actually gotten coal?

11. Giving or Receiving presents? I like both.

12. Open presents quick or slow? Generally, I prefer slow.

13. Caroling or Christmas stories? Caroling.

14. Snowy days or icy days? Snow. Not ice.

15. Red or Green? Since neither is my favorite, I'll go with a not-very-Christmasy deep red.

16. Nightmare before Christmas or The Santa Claus? Power "off"

17. Dasher or Dancer? Dancer.

18. Prancer or Vixen? Prancer.

19. Comet or Cupid? Cupid. Comet always reminds me of the cleanser.

20. Donner or Blitzen? Blitzen.

21. Fake tree or Real tree? Fake, at least in my own house. I like real wreaths though.

22. Prime Rib or Ham? If I have to cook, bologna.

23. Red and White Candy Canes or Colorful Candy Canes? Red and white. Without the stupid story attached, please.

24. Get up early or sleep in late? Early. Well, 7 anyway.

25. Old Christmas movies or new ones? No movies.

26. The Santa Claus 1 or The Santa Claus 2? I'd rather stick a fork in my eye.

27. The Grinch movie or Elf movie? NOT Jim Carrey. I wouldn't mind seeing Max again.

28. Scrooge or Tiny Tim? Cratchit. Just to be contrary.

29. Ornaments or a Wreath? Both. Sorry, can't choose.

30. Christmas Eve or Christmas day? Both. I like to start counting Christmas Day at sunset on the Eve. I know, how very Jewish of me....

Christmas Meme #2

(Swiped from Allison)

Favorite Christmas…
01. Non-Jesus-related song? "Do They Know It's Christmas?"

02. Jesus-related song? "Silent Night" (I really like Stevie Nicks' version)

03. Santa-related song? "Up on the Housetop" (simply because it's not overplayed)

04. Fictional character? Hermey

05. Dinner’s main course? Candy from my stocking

06. Dinner’s dessert? The rest of the candy from my stocking

07. Scent (pine, gingerbread, candles…)? Light pine

08. Animated movie? ...not a fan

09. Non-animated movie? ...not a fan

10. Personal memory? Christmas Eve services

11. Story/Fairy Tale? Amahl and the Night Visitors, again because of it's lack of overattention

11 questions? That's random

Saturday 9

(Link in blogroll)
White Christmas

1. If you live where you get winter weather, do you prefer your Christmas to be white? If you never see snow, do you wish for it?

Yes. White, please. Maybe not three feet like we had one year, but yes, snow is better.

2. How many holiday cards did you receive from people you hadn't sent cards to, after the "mailing deadline?" Did you send a card anyway?

We haven't sent our cards yet, so this "deadline" thing mystifies me a bit. I don't send cards just because we got something from someone. At least, not until next year. Once the cards are done, they are done.

3. When the clock strikes Midnight on New Year's, will you be at home, at a party, or somewhere else?

Home. I stay that night: too many screwballs out.

4. Have you ever taken the keys and driven home a friend that you felt was too drunk to drive? If not, do you think you would attempt to if that situation ever arose?

I'd probably try, or perhaps just hide their keys. Then either have them stay over or call a cab.

5. Tell us about a gift that you either bought or made for someone else that you wanted for yourself!

Many of the gifts I get Beast anymore tend to be shared gifts, like the DVR we bought this year.

6. What chores do you have left for the holidays?

Well, cards (as noted above), wrapping gifts, planning the food on Friday, some more shopping....

7. If you could buy one gift for yourself where money was not an obstacle, what would it be?

A (small) house in the mountains.

8. What is one of your family’s favorite holiday traditions?

Baby Jesus doesn't appear in the creche until Christmas morning. Right now, it's just everyone staring at an empty spot in the stable and waiting.

9. If you could give a fellow blogger a holiday gift, which would it be and what would you give them?

I would love to give Cheesehead a memory wipe and a new job. Unfortunately, her blog has 'gone dark' and I'm not sure how to let her know how sad her situation has made me.

Christmas Meme #1

(from Allison)

1. Does your family send Christmas cards? Yes. Every year fewer, however.

2. How soon do you start shopping? The day after Christmas. I'm always on the lookout.

3. Who do you shop for? Immediate family and very close friends only. If I'm visiting at someone else's house, I usually try to bring something for them as well.

4. Do you put up a Christmas tree? Usually. I think we've only missed one year in 23...?

5. If so, is it fake or real? Fake.

6. Do you like tinsel? We use garland. The tinsel went away when Sparky was little: he and the dog had issues with it.

7. Do you use homemade or store bought ornaments? Mostly store-bought, but there are a few that either Sparky or I made.

8. Do you put Christmas lights outside your house? No. Waaaay too much work.

9. Do you put lights on the tree? But of course!

10. How about popcorn and cranberries? Yeah, rotting food sitting in my living room for a month. No.

11. Is there a wreath hanging on your door? Yes indeed.

13. Do you hang up your stocking? Yes. Shoot, I still have to get some stuff for stockings! aaaaahhhh

14. Does your family read "'Twas the Night before Christmas"? That's kind of my sister's job. She has a collection of these books. I used to know it by heart, so I don't really need to read it.

15. Christmas Movie? For many years, we went to the theater on Christmas Day, before Sparky arrived. Otherwise, I am VERY grinchy about the whole movie/TV special thing. I really have come to hate most of them.

16. Character from any Christmas Movie: Max (from The Grinch)

17. Christmas Song: Most of them. "Buon Natale" sung by Nat King Cole, comes to mind today.

18. Christmas Memory: Being allowed to stuff stockings the first time when I was older (teenaged); my nephews were visiting.

19. Give or Receive? Parts of both.

22. Ham or Turkey? I prefer sandwiches and everyone hanging out and relaxing.

24. White Lights or Colored Lights? Colored.

25. Blinking Lights or Still Lights: Still.

26. Were you Naughty or Nice this year? Very nice. I'm clearly sick.

27. What do you want for Christmas this year? DVR. Which we got on Monday. Yay.

28. When do you open your gifts? One on the Eve, the rest in the morning.

29. What's the best gift you've ever gotten? The Revereware.

30. What's the worst gift you've ever gotten? A book I'd already read.

31. Who gives you the most gifts? Beast.

32. Have you ever had a secret Santa? We used to do this at work, but stopped about 7 years ago. We do a white elephant exchange now.

33. Do you like wrapping gifts? Yup. To a point. I bore easily.

34. Do you put change in those red buckets? I put dollars in, not noisy money.

35. Do you burn a yule log? Not as such. We usually have a fire in the fireplace.

36. Can you name all the reindeer? On Dasher on Dancer on Prancer and Vixen, on Comet on Cupid on Donder and Blitzen.

37. Do you bake cookies? Not anymore.

38. Have you ever seen your mommy kissing Santa Claus? My mommy was Santa!

39. Have you ever gotten a kiss under the mistletoe? Yup. Not for years, though.

41. Do you drive around and look at the Christmas lights? Yup. Usually after we eat at the local Chinese place and before we head to the late church service.

42. Have you ever left Santa cookies? Every year, with a glass of milk. And carrots. For the reindeer. Oh, and a note. Which Santa always answers. Santa has odd handwriting.

43. Have you ever sat on Santa's lap? I remember standing in line at the mall for this once. Presumably I eventually made it to the front of the line.

44. Who do you celebrate Christmas with? My family.

45. Where do you celebrate Christmas? In my living room, most years.

46. Have you ever had a white Christmas? Almost every year lately. There've been a few warmer years.

47. What part of Christmas do you look most forward to? The 12-15 hours from 5 p.m. Christmas Eve till all the presents are opened the next morning.

48. Have you ever had your picture taken with Santa? Probably. Don't know. No evidence has surfaced.

49. Does your family always take pictures at Christmas? I guess we do but it's just of us opening presents or whatever.

50. Have you ever heard the song "Thank God For The Kids"? No, but I subscribe to the general sense, I guess.

Friday Fill-Ins

(Link in blogroll)

1. No, we will NOT allow ourselves to be freaked out during what is supposed to be a joyful season.
2. There's nothing like wrapping presents at the old kitchen table.
3. I watched the steam rising from the hot cup of coffee (or tea) and thought: I wonder if I can dive in and warm up.
4. In the long run, it's going to be okay.
5. I'll take time today to do something fun AND productive.
6. People seem less cranky lately, at least from my point of view.
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to getting these stupid Christmas cards handled (!), tomorrow my plans include delivering food to community members, and finishing the fundraiser stuff, and Sunday, I want to get the fundraiser stuff to the purchasers and be DONE WITH IT!

Friday 5

(Link in blogroll)
Wrapping

1. How seriously do you take gift-wrapping when you give gifts?

Well, hmmm...I like wrapping gifts--it's kind of therapeutic--but I don't get wigged out about it if I can't wrap something "perfectly." And usually, I just want it done.

2. Do you save gift-wrapping to re-use later?

My husband broke me of that habit decades ago. We always did as a kid. He comes from a family of "rip, shred, tear" habits. We do recycle everything, however, and I diligently save bows.

3. How picky are you when it comes to selecting wrapping paper?

Not overly picky.* I do have preferences, but not to the extent that I drive store-to-store to find exactly what I want.

4. How much attention do you pay to the way gifts you receive are wrapped?

Not much, unless they are massively gorgeous.

5. Among people you know, who is the most talented at wrapping gifts?

...uhhh.... ?? OK, perhaps I should reiterate here that I really really don't notice the wrapping. lol