Curious as a Cat

(Link at left)

1) Is there an emotion that you think has gotten stronger as you've aged? If so, why do you think that has happened?

Is empathy an emotion? Normally, that's what I'd say (not this week, however). I think it's gotten stronger because I can really understand where people are, having been there myself over my life. That may not makes sense. I'm kind of having one of those not-making-sense nights....

2) Describe the (group of) friend(s) you enjoy hanging out with the most.

I can't pick one friend or group. I hang with my friends because I enjoy their company. If I didn't, I wouldn't really count them as friends. Each of my friends brings a different spice to the ragout.

3) What are the criteria necessary for being a good parent?

Patience. Memory of one's own childhood. Ability to spot an emerging lie at 40 paces. Consistency. I think going into to parenthood the first time requires intense stupidity and fearlessness! After that, a healthy dose of humility is pretty important.

4) What kind of cowardice do you most despise?

Inability to admit it to people when you've screwed up.

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

I love apple-picking. We never did it when I was a kid (no orchards in Denver!), but when I went along with Sparky when he was in Kindergarten I fell in love. There's a very small period of time during which kids are willing to do this, though, and I'm past it with Sparky. These are the kinds of things I can't wait to do with grandchildren (or other people's kids, which just sounds creepy). In any case, I haven't had (made!) time to do this in the past couple of years, even though I have a friend who has an orchard. More guilt. Yay!