Saturday Six

(Link in blogroll)

1. What was the last organization you gave a monetary donation to?

I'm sure it was our church. It gets darsch outta my wallet almost every week for something or other.

2. What was the last charitable thing you volunteered to do?

Well, technically, tonight's picnic was for church, though I was attending it, not hosting it. I'm going on a youth mission trip in two weeks. I do my share of volunteering, but I'm recently coming to the realization that I need to find some outlet other than church.

It dawns on me that I spent almost 6 hours this week at a local school on a panel listening to 14-year-olds present their projects. That, my friend, is charity! (I had an absolute blast!)

3. Someone you know comes to you in a bad situation and asks to borrow $10. Do you give them the money even if you think they might not give it back?

At $10, I would give it to them with strings clearly unattached; in fact, I might tell them to pay it forward, rather than paying me back. For $100, I wouldn't necessarily do so. For $1000, I'd ask for a promissory note, just as my parents when I was in college and needed a little extra money for a trip. And all this totally depends on the friend, the need, and our history.

4. Take the quiz: How Charitable Are You?

I scored a 19.

19-37 = Faithful Contributor. Your sense of charity and social justice is very tied to your faith. Your charitable actions spring from both your strong sense of compassion and your religious obligations. You look toward religious leaders for guidance in where to contribute and likely participate in church or house of worship fundraisers and volunteer activities.

5. Do you agree with the quiz’s results?

I italicized the parts I agree with. My major problem with the test is that with virtually every question, my response was way more complex than the answers allowed. In at least three, NONE of the answers were even close. For instance, I never give money to people on the street. I fear swarming, for one thing, and for another I usually don't HAVE money with me. Normally, when I know I'm going to be in an area where there may be panhandlers, I bring no more than what I need, if anything. However, if someone were to ask me for help, for a place to stay, for directions, etc., I'll pony up time and energy in a heartbeat! Beast always asks panhandlers if they're looking for food and offers to take them to McDonald's or the grocery store. I don't think he's had any takers yet.

6. Should the United States do more to help its own citizens before helping people in other countries?

I think the people in this country could do more to help each other. I do believe that there should be some kind of mandatory service time in every person's life, similar to AmeriCorps so that we could all have a chance to see the real world.

I think the United States needs to do it's part in leading the world in positive ways--in being the country we like to think we are--rather than leading so many countries (and people) into economic despair and war. Ahem.

her-de-her-dey

Your Score: Swedish Chef!

You scored 66 Mood and 68 Energy!

You are happy and energetic. People just love being around you and your infectious energy. You're good at entertaining people without even trying, and you make a mean lutefisk.

Link: The Muppet Personality Test written by TheLadyEve on OkCupid Free Online Dating, home of the The Dating Persona Test View My Profile(TheLadyEve)

OK, so I entertain people by doing stupid shit, mostly. ;-) But I'm ok with being the Swedish chef, since I hate cooking.... What? I know, it doesn't make sense. Work with me here!

Cinn's Friday 5

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School Daze

[01] What was something you memorized for school and still can recall?

Mrs. White had us memorize a long list of prepositions in 7th grade. I can still do "about above across after against along among around at..." and into the Bs. Otherwise, I don't remember being required to memorize anything except my times tables; and I still have issues in the 6 and 8 lists, in the 40s through 60s. Why? Who knows.

[02] Did you take a foreign language in school and did you enjoy it?

I took Spanish from 7th grade on. Two years in high school were independent study and I ended up completing three years of coursework in that time, which meant I could (and did) test out of freshman Spanish in college...for credit. I love languages. I would study them again, in a heartbeat.

[03] With what groups of people did you associate?

In case you couldn't tell: the braniacs (not that we called ourselves that then!). And the band geeks. There was a lot of overlap between the two groups. ;-)

[04] In which sport/club/band (instrument) did you participate?

I played flute in Concert Band (6 years), Orchestra (1 or 2 years) and Wind Ensemble (2 years-ish); senior year I got to play piccolo as well. That meant the wonderful solo from "Stars & Stripes Forever" which I can still whistle when I hear it. Sad, eh? I was also an assistant for the wrestling team (don't ask) and a staunch member of International Club. Honor Society doesn't count as a club...well, not for us: we had our picture taken once a year and that was it. Oh, and in junior high I did volleyball for one season and basketball for one season. Hated it, both times.

[05] What were your school mascot and colors?

In junior high we were the Panthers, and our colors were an untimely, unfortunate red and white. Our opponents loved calling us the Pink Panthers. (In college, there was a cheap dorm mixed dream called Pink Panther Piss that always made me giggle, but I couldn't actually force myself to drink it, and not only because of that last word--it was insulting to my residual Panther Pride!)
In high school we were the Pirates, with a color palette of medium blue/white/silver. Pirates. In Colorado. Yeah. Okay. I never really thought about that weirdness until much later in life.

Friday Fill-In

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1. For me theft (i.e. plagiarism) is the opposite of creativity.
2. Dakota by Martha Grimes was the last excellent book I read.
3. I like fill-ins because they let my imagination go wild.
4. In nature I like looking at mountains, and animals.
5. The best candidate for America's future should win the US elections.
6. The last time I laughed with all my belly was awhile ago.
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to making a few phone calls, tomorrow my plans include cleaning up around the house and going to a picnic and Sunday, I want to get this mission trip thing SORTED OUT!

Unnumbered (to my everlasting relief!)

(found here)

What is your current relationship status? Married. "In sickness and in health," yo.

What sort of people do you like, as far as what their interests are in life? I like people who are confident and interesting and postive and can see absurdity in everyday life. I don't care what their interests are specifically, but they should be something related to using their brains in some area. They don't have to be "intelligentsia" but intelligence is good. One of my very good friends is dyslexic and adamantly NOT academically oriented; he calls himself a Redneck. I love him to death in spite of all the reasons we shouldn't get along. He reminds me of all the reasons I shouldn't judge people by their exterior.

What physical traits do you look for in a potential interest? As in romantic interest. See previous answer, and add in good lips and the right shape of hands to hold mine.

What kind of fashion-sense attracts you? Comfort is important. That means the person should wear whatever they want to wear, whatever makes them feel comfortable: designer clothes, shlubby jeans, T shirts, sweats, Hollister. I don't give a shit, unless they are actively dressing to impress. Step back on that bigtime. Dress with confidence (and wear the right size, please!).

What kind of hair style do you find attractive on a potential mate? I love long hair in guys, as long as it's kept clean and tidy. I really don't like the whole bald/shaved look, mostly because not so many guys have the right shape heads. Having said that, I understand the practical reasons for it and if it's comfortable for the guy, I'm fine with it.

What is the usual age range you look at? I'm not really looking, but I've recently discovered that the actually age for "Middle Aged" has risen rather dramatically. ;-)

What traits turn you off? Self-orientation in everything. Crazy behavior. Over compensation for perceived inadequacies. Lots of other things, but it's late and I can't think of anything else specifically.

Do you prefer to date various people or do you pretty much fall into monogamous relationships quickly? Uh...non-monogamous relationships always made me very confused and uptight. I'm only now learning how to multitask. ;-)

Are you afraid to ask people out on dates? Yes, but mostly cuz Beast would be cranky if he were to find out.

If you're single right now, do you wish you were in a relationship? n/a

What are the positive points about being single? Never having to answer to someone else (I'm going to stipulate that there are no kids in this single life). Having to plan for only one person, instead of checking with every-damn-one before making a fucking schedule. (Is this a sore point??) Eating what I want, when I want. Turning off the TV/radio when stupid crap comes on. Not having to listen to someone when I'm cranky. My money is my money. Less shit in the house.

What are the negative points about being single? Having no one nearby to bounce random ideas off of. Loneliness in general, and potential isolation. Not as much money in the family pot.

When single, do you often find yourself longing for companionship? n/a (How can I possibly remember, since the last time I was actually 'single' was junior year in college, when life is all about who's with who, etc.??)

How well do you handle rejection? Er, generally or romantically? Romantically...no clue/I've forgotten. Otherwise, I handle it VERY badly. Very badly indeed.

Do you miss your last sweetie? FUCK no.

Do you think it's better to look for love or let it find you? I think it's a great idea to keep your eyes open and be aware of possibilities in all situations. But don't be stupid and chase down the Asshat Road just in case all the time. Asshat Road is the trailer park of relationships.

What's the longest relationship you've ever been in? 23 years and counting, officially.

Do you think couples should spend a very large amount of time together or space things out a tad? I think that the answer to this question is 100% dependent on each couple. Some couples can be together 24/7/365; other couples would kill each other if they did that.

Have you ever found yourself worrying about commitment? Er...yeah? I dunno. I wouldn't call it that.

When involved with a person, do you try to think about the here and now or do you often think of the future? I have great difficulty in living in the here and now, ever, about anything. It's all about the future.

How do you prefer to handle disagreements? I prefer to get them addressed as they happen rather than shooting out shit that happened 4 months ago in an argument. That is just fucked up.

How do you feel when your mate is mad at you and won't tell you why? I feel that there are ominous argument clouds on the horizon. I get very pissed. However, I should say that if the information is preceded with something along the lines of wanting to talk to me when he gets his head together, I'm much more ok with that.

What's the longest period of time you've ever had a crush? I crushed BIGtime on WG for 4 years. He's still pretty much a great guy, but...life...and motorcycles...and hospitals...and 20 years...have intervened.

Have you ever confessed your feelings to a crush? Inadvertantly, online. Hi, W!

Do you tell a lot of people when you have a crush? I probably don't need to. All my female friends knew about W. Nowadays, I don't really crush that often, and I rarely discuss it. It's just too weird.

Has someone who had a crush on you ever confessed to you? Uh...not that I recall right now. Oh, well, maybe Briny...? Does that count? Hmmm....

Would you get involved with someone if they had a child already? Dude, if I were single at this age, I might be inclined to think that most guys in my 'market' would have kids. If not, that would be a Potential Giant Fucking Red Flag!

Would you get involved with someone if they were previously married? See above. However, I'd be very aware of how they discussed their former wife. Just as I would with anyone discussing previous relationships as a whole. This goes for regular friend-friends, as well.

How big of an issue is religion to your compatibility? It's important. It's not a deal-breaker; Beast was unchurched when we dated and that has worked out all right. ;-)

How big of an issue to you is your mate's ethnicity? Wouldn't it be oh-so-liberal of me to say "No probs"?? Well, from my personal perspective it would be no problem. Dealing with our families, our different cultures, society at large...that would be VERY problematic. sigh.... Let's put it this way: if Sparky falls in love with someone outside our ethnic group, I would care more about the individual than the ethnicity.

In a potential mate, how important is intelligence to you? Oh, damn. Define "intelligence." They have to be smart. But smart doesn't mean 47 degrees and so forth. Smart means...able to deal with life in a sensible way. Lots of educated people are pretty stupid.

In a potential mate, how important is a sense of humor to you? Ab-so-lute-ly CRUCIAL. If I can't laugh with you, we're done. There's the door. See ya.

What makes your heart flutter and brings a big cheesy smile to your face? Laughter. Surprise and joy in someone else's face. Pride. Giggles--OMG, giggles set me up for anything.

What was your first kiss like? Ron's was shocking and wonderful (and short). First boyfriend kiss ever: AWEsome.

What part of a person's body do you find most attractive? Face.

What's the first thing you look at when you look at someone you're attracted to? Lips. I dunno, but face generally, I guess.

How important are the looks of a mate's face to you? Well, dude...yeah, I have to like the looks of that face. Even if there are changes in the face, if there's an overlay of memory that brings me back to love...that works.

How important are the looks of a mate's body to you? See above.

When you kiss someone for the first time, is it usually you who initiates it or the other? I don't know. Probably other, but it's been a long while.

Have you ever casually made out with someone who you weren't seriously involved with? Not since I was 19. Or 20? Maybe 21.... huh.

Were you single at the time? Yes.

What are your ticklish areas? Depends on motivation and mood. I'm less susceptible than I once was.

Have you ever turned down an offer for sex? Yes.

Would you stay with a lover if the love stopped but the sex was still enjoyable? No. Not even.

Do you believe in love? Yes. It's all around. Even on the worst days, I know that. It's actually part of the problem.

Do you believe in love at first sight? I don't think I've ever experienced it. I believe others have.

Has someone ever told you they loved you? Yes. Many many times.

Have you ever told someone you loved them and meant it? Yes. Ditto.

Have you ever told someone you loved them and not meant it? Uh, no. However, there have been times when I've said "I love you" when I was beyond ANNOYED with someone!

Have you ever been married? Yup.

If you're currently not married, do you foresee yourself ever tying the knot? I. Am. Fuckin. MARRIED!

Do you plan on having children someday? Nada más. But I'm excited about grandchildren in a decade or so. ;-)

Have you ever had your heart broken? On a regular basis. I think it's happening now, again.

Have you ever been dumped? Not so's I've noticed, or cared about.

Have you ever dumped someone? Yuppers.

Has a romantic companion ever made you cry? Yes. In a very meaningful sense, and recently.

Have you ever made a romantic companion cry? Yes.

Have you ever had an emotional pain so bad it made you sick or physically hurt? Yes. Oh, boy, bigtime yes.

Have you ever learned an important lesson as a result of a break up? Yes. Am I going to share it. Not now, not here.

Have you ever gotten back together with someone after breaking up? Yes. And then we got married.

Do you believe there's hope for people after they get back together? Uh, well, yeah, sorta by definition.

Have you ever broken up with someone and remained friends afterward? Yeah-ish. Till I left for college.

Have you ever broken up with someone and become bitter enemies? No. CBA to fight about shit at that point.

Have you ever broken up with someone and lost touch? That's pretty much the norm, eh?

Have you ever gotten back in touch with an old flame after a time of more than 3 months of no communication? Nope.

Do you ever check up on old flames without actually contacting them? I've cyber-stalked some guys, yeah.

Have you ever longed to get back together with someone? No, not really. Most of the guys with whom I was involved...well, let's just say it just wasn't working. I never felt that I'd made the wrong decision breaking up.

SatC

Who's Your Sex and the City Match?

My Result: Charlotte

Looking for the perfect Bergdorf Goodman dishes to match your impeccable kitchen? Shopping at Tiffany's for a new string of pearls? Fantasizing about the perfect job as a New York City art gallery owner? Maybe not exactly, but when it comes to a refined taste and a sweetness like no other, you're just like Charlotte!

Of course you aren't all sugar; you've definitely got a tough heart under that pretty cashmere sweater, but you are probably happiest when you are surrounded by supportive relationships and a great romance (you only get two, you know!) So live it up, because you deserve nothing but the best in life, whether it's fine china or true love. Now that's some good taste!

What are you?
http://web.tickle.com/jumpto?test=sexandthecityogt&c=50652

I like Miranda more. Oh, well. Thank Got I'm not Samantha!!!

Curious as a Cat

1) What one thing makes your husband/wife/lover/best friend feel the guiltiest?

Making me cry. Unfortunately, I was raised to cry at the drop of a hat, so there is guilt galore 'round Cat 'n Beast's house. [And no: I do NOT do the crying thing on purpose!!]

2) What makes you laugh?

Babies. Kids in general. Stupid jokes ("bangity bangity") ("hare today, goon tomorrow"), and puns. Kind-hearted cleverness.

3) Who is the least spiritual person you know?

My first answer was going to be Amy, but that's wrong, from virtually any standpoint. Uh, jeez, I seem to be surrounded by spiritualists, er, spiritual people! Maybe my brother...?

4) What is the biggest surprise you've ever had?

Waking up after exploratory surgery without reproductive organs (and an appendix) was a bit...uh, unexpected, and so were the earnest discussions about chemotherapy with a gynecologist I had met only 24 hours previously.

5) 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

OK, fair cop: This dog looks a great deal like Shady, the dog we had for 14 years, and who was possibly the most amiable, loving, bighearted dog ever. The ears on this dog are different: Shady had German Shepherd ears. But the expression on that face: "THROW the BALL! THROW it NOW! aRUUh?" I just want to kiss that nose. Sux to be allergic.... which I found out about a year after we got Shady. Worst, most useless advice from a doctor ever: "I'm not going to bother treating you (for eye problems) if you insist on keeping a dog that you know you are allergic to. Get rid of it!" Fuckhead asshat dipshit. Instead of getting rid of the dog, I ditched the doc.

I hope Shady and I end up in the same heaven.

from La Kwizgiver

(a.k.a. Allison)

I
Where do you go when you need to just get away? ANYwhere. Just driving, except the price of gas is killing that concept. My room. The bathtub. A park. Somewhere that I don't go as a normal course of events.

Do you believe everything happens for a reason? I think that everything is interconnected. I don't necessarily think that the world revolves around us, though, just that we can learn from everything. Sometimes learning bites, though.

Have you ever thought about moving far away and starting all over? Have done it. Would do it again. Perhaps I need to do just that!

Who is the one person you can always turn to? ...hmmmm....

Have you ever won a raffle? Sorta.

Have you ever sang in front of a large audience? What constitutes "large"? I have sung solos in front of fairly large groups of kids. And I've sung in choirs.

Favorite school field trip as a kid? Natural History Museum. I swear, we went there every freakin' year!

Have you ever square danced? I adore square dancing!

How far have you traveled up north? Just south of Quebec City, where we turned to head south into Maine.

How far south have you traveled? Puerto Vallarta

What flavor do you like on your wings? I don't like 'em spicy. Breaded with Parmesan, or a tomato-y thing with blue cheese dip is fine. I don't care for the Hooters wings (or much else from Hooters, duh).

Who do you wake up for in the morning? "Who"?? I wake up to shut the damn alarm off and go to the bathroom. There is really no "who" involved.

Who is the last person you took a picture with? Someone at work took my picture for our Fb group last week. I think...maybe two weeks ago.

Do you think that global warming is happening? Uh, yeah. D'oh.

Have you or would you ever use and ouija board? Yes. But I don't believe in it.

Have you ever pretended you were happy around your friends but weren't? All the time. Well, around some people. Others get more of the 'real me.'

Where would you most like to visit? Greek Islands, like right now or in October.

Do you think your ex still likes you? DK/DC.

Describe you ex in three words: Why should I?

Have you ever had a pet fish? No. Well, there are fish at work that I look at periodically. I find them deadly dull.

Have you ever been home sick? "Home, sick" or "homesick"? Hasn't everyone been the former at some point?? As for the latter: FUCK yeah! Welcome to first semester freshman year of college (among other times).

Who do you want to win the 2008 presidential election? Well, since Bush can't end up there again, I consider the outcome of the election a victory for the American public regardless of who takes office in January!

Do you know the Soulja Boy dance? No. But Sparky does. ;-)

What is the craziest thing you've done with your best friend? When? Recently? Shit...I'm too old for this question. I've done a lot of goofy stuff over the years.

Who do you think is the most attractive celebrity? Does Nelson Mandela count as a celebrity? If not, Bono.

When is the last time you went to Taco Bell? Last week, I think. I nearly went today. Maybe tomorrow. I love me some pseudo-refried beans!

Have you ever licked a 9-volt battery? Have I? Hmmm....I don't know. "Sparky, bring me a battery!"

Have you ever ordered from an infomercial? I don't even watch 'em. feh

Is there a message on your voice mail? Not anymore; I just listened to it.

Have you ever made a prank call before? About 30-odd years ago, I went through a phase of doing that. With Rosalie; she was a Bad Influence. Ha ha ha ha....

What's your favorite thing to do over the summer? Store up heat and sunlight somewhere so I don't implode in the winter.

How many jobs do you have? Several dozen: cataloger, reference librarian, Library 2.0 point person, general problem-solver, mom, wife, daughter, sister, youth leader, friend, aunt, Clerk of Session, godmother (that sounds weird--how about godparent?), neighbor, soul of patience.... Most of them pay, financially, for shit. ;-)

Don't you hate it when people smoke around you? As a matter of fact, yes. I'm allergic. I came home from the in-laws' this weekend and realized Tuesday morning that my hair STILL smelled of smoke, after nearly 24 hours away from it!

When was the saddest time in your life? Now is making a good run for it.

What is your favorite type of skiing? I like WATCHING bad skiers. Otherwise, I think the whole concept is ridiculous.

Who is your favorite family member and why? Elizabeth, cuz she's cool. I like BIL a lot too.

Do you like Chinese food? Some. The good stuff, yes. I'm in love with Crab Rangoons.

Would you ever be in the Peace Corps? Not anymore. I like my creature comforts: plumbing, heat/a.c.

Do you think you are better then everyone else? No. I'm well-cured of that concept.

Would you ever go on a camping trip without your cell phone? Would I even ever go camping?? Not likely. However, cell phones tend not to be real useful if one is off the beaten path at all.


II
Do you wear slippers? One of the things I'm doing next winter is replacing the hideous slippers I've had for a few years. I've hated them all along. I'm getting some good, warm, NOT scuffy ones.

How many pictures are in your living room? There are three framed "things" on the walls, and and seven framed "things" on the shelves. It's a hard question because two of the ten are paintings, two are papyri, one is a framed invitation, one is a silhouette, and the rest are photographs.

Do you wear a bra to bed at night? There's really no need for that.

Do you ever watch Brady Bunch reruns? I don't search them out, but they are hysterical to find once in awhile.

Are you allergic to anything? Cats, dogs, dust, mold, several pollens, June grass, cigarette smoke, morphine. I think I've developed a problem with eggs over the past several months as well.

When was the last time you called in sick? Last month? Sometime, several times, this winter. I got called on it at my review last month, too. ...sigh....

Have you ever been in a car accident? Thankfully, nothing major, just a couple of fender benders.

What is your favorite snack food? Iced sugar cookies. Or Cheetos.

Do you think you have a big butt? I am Middle-Aged Female, hear me roar! Yes.

Would you like to look like your mom when you are her age? Uh, no. We mostly aren't swimming in the same gene pool; I'm much more likely to look like my dad's mom and my oldest sister. groan

Have you ever seen a tornado? We watch the freakin' Weather Channel all the time! In real life? No. THANK YOU JESUS!

Do you think Barack Obama is sexy? Well, gaaah, no. I don't ever want to think the President is sexy. On the other hand, he's very smart, and that's sexy. Oh shit.

If you won a million dollars, what would you buy first? I'd pay off the mortgage on this house. Buy a new car. Invest the rest in retirement/college funds.

What time is it right now? 6:29 pm

Are you pregnant? Negatory, sir.

Have you ever been pregnant? Yes.

Do you like men who wear pink shirts and flip-flops? My dad wore pink shirts occasionally. I don't like cheap flip-flops on male feet. Most men don't have a clue how to walk in them. And their feet are ugly anyway. ;-)

How many pairs of shoes do you own? I believe we've decided on 30ish.

Do you think you are a hypocondriac? Sometimes.

Do you own a dictionary? Two or three. Mostly, I use teh tubes.

Where was the last place you went on vacation? Uh, Ohio, last weekend?

Do you talk about your friends behind their back? Usually. Also, in front of their faces, and alongside of 'em. {eyeroll}

Are you actually fat but are in complete denial about it? There's no denial here, bubba.

What color is your mouse pad? No le uso.

Does your kitchen have a theme? I abhor the concept of themed rooms. So, like, no.

Do you like to mow the yard? I also abhor mowing. Sparky, ironically, is mowing right now.

Are you addicted to using Febreze? I'm not addicted. I have some. I use it as needed.

What is your ring size? Which finger? What time of year? They are smaller than Beast's ring sizes, though--of that I am sure.

When was the last time you consumed alcohol? Hmmm. Within the last month, but I can't remember where? Coalmens, maybe, a couple of weeks ago? I think.

Do you know someone who gets food stamps? I probably do, though I don't know for sure.

Do you have a basement in your home? Yup.

Are you still in love with 1 of your exes? What is this fixation in surveys with exes?? No. I never really was in love with any of them. Lust, yes--a couple. A few were conveniences. Yes, I'm a user. Move on.

Any big plans for the summer? June: Mission trip with the high school youth group, ALA in Anaheim. July: Debrief picnic with the high school youth group. August: nada.

What is your favorite comfort food? Homemade mac 'n cheese.

Do you prefer broccoli or asparagus? I like 'em both, cooked. I like raw broccoli. Not sure I've ever had raw asparagus.

What color are your bedroom walls? Greek-ocean blue and sand/tan.

Who do you live with? Beast, Sparky, Ruka and Buddy.

Which Star Wars movie is your favorite? I would PAY good money to never seen ANYthing Star Wars-related again in my life!

How about Harry Potter? The movies? The books? I liked the last two movies. It's hard for me to pick one book, though.

What was the last movie you saw in theatres? Speed Racer.

Did you get the popcorn or the candy? Yup.

What is the most romantic text in your inbox? I think there's one there from Beast saying "luv u" or something....

Have you ever played miniature golf on a date? Possibly. Don't remember.

What's a phrase you overuse? Ack-shul-lee.

Where do you buy most of your shoes? Famous Footwear.

Do you always use good grammer [sic]? I'm better at spelling, certainly better than the person who wrote this survey!

Do you have an accent or a speach impediment? Depends on whether you consider "Western middle America" a speech impediment or an accent. I think I sound VERY drawly compared to most people in this area.

What did you eat today? Leftover pizza, yogurt, garlic toast, crackers/ham/cheese, a couple of donut holes, and some hideous, blue, taffy-esque abomination.

What do you do at work? Mutter to myself. Sway to the music. Try not to punch people.

Do you know the rules to any sports? A-yup.

Do you prefer to watch or play sports? Watching is much less painful all the way around.

What is your favorite kind of hat to wear? I love hats. I almost never wear them, though.

Do you pray? Not as much as I should.

Who do you pray to? Welllll, God...?

What is the closest mountain to your house? There AIN'T no mountains in this state! Probably some ski hill in WI or something in Kentucky.

When is the next time you will move? Hopefully not soon.

Isn't there something better you could be doing right now? Yes, making dinner for myself.

Is there anything good on TV? Dunno. It's actually OFF for a change!

Does your significant other have a myspace? Nope.

What is your dream marriage proposal? Flehhhhhh......gaahhhhhhhh.....

What are your nicknames and who gave them to you? The one used by far the most often is Cat., and I gave it to myself.

How often do you wear jewelery [sic]? Yes, just earrings. Or, to fit in, perhaps "earings."

What size engine is in your vehicle? 4-cyl, 2 liter.

What do you need to do tomorrow? Judge middle school end-of-year projects and work.

Who do you hope never to see again? Katie.

Which friend of yours lives the farthest away? Uh...Annie, I guess.

More Multiple Blogthings

Your Gemstone Says...

You are an excellent communicator. You express yourself clearly. You relate easily to other people, and you're a great listener. Friends turn to you to help stay grounded and sane. You realize that everything is interconnected in life, and you aim to help as many people as possible.

The Gemstone Test

Well, normally, I'd say there was more truth to this than I indicated above. Lately, though, I would not encourage anyone to come to me for "grounded and sane" as I'm fresh out.

---

You Like Names that Are Retro and Fashionable

You like names that are from the past but becoming modern again. Names with a strong history are very appealing to you. You're a big believer in giving children very adult sounding names. You're not a fan of nicknames or newfangled spellings. Some female names you might like: Audrey, Emma, Fiona, Georgia, Isabelle, Naomi, Rosemary, and Veronica Some male names you might like: Brendan, Colin, Ethan, Jared, Kenneth, Martin, and Nathaniel

What Kind of Names Do You Like?

Spot on. The problem with some of the names I didn't highlight is that I've known people with those names, and I really didn't like Veronica or Martin, and Isabelle WILL be shortened to Izzy, which I hate!

Just 2 Blogthings

Your Ice Cream Personality:

You are an incredibly modest person. You don't feel comfortable bragging about yourself... or even receiving complements. You are incredibly cautious. You rather miss out on something than make a mistake. No one would ever call you wild... but they would call you responsible. You are a somewhat open minded person, but deep down you're fairly conservative. You don't like trying new things very much. And if you do find something new you like, you stick with it. You tend to have a one track mind. You prefer not to multitask. You are fun loving and sweet. You tend to enjoy joking around and teasing people.

The Ice Cream Personality Test

---

You Are an Okay Listener

You try to be a good listener, and usually you are. But some people are just so boring and difficult to listen to! Your mind tends to wander during some conversations. You are likely to space out a little or try to change the subject to something more interesting.

Are You a Good Listener?

Are these two results describing the same person??

207-209

(found here)

#206

HEARTS (LOVE AND FRIENDSHIP)
[Deuce]- are you happy about something today? I am happy that my hair is colored and cut, and I didn't have to work, and I got a ton of stuff done here at home today.
[Trey]- what about it makes you so happy (or unhappy)? I dunno: I think that is pretty obvious.
4- when was the last time you went out with friends? I spent a long day at a conference with Kelly about two weeks ago.
5- when did you last spend time with your family? I spent time with my nephews in February. We're going to see Beast's family this weekend.
6- when was the last time you kissed someone? Sparky gave me a kiss about 10 minutes ago when he went to bed.
7- when was the last time you went on a genuine date? Beast and I had lunch together on Monday; does that count?
8- when was the last time you had sex? ...yeah, as IF...plock! Nosyparker!
9- when was the last time you told someone you loved them? About 10 minutes ago when Sparky went to bed.
10- have you ever been in love? Yep. Innumerable times.
J- who knows more about you than anyone else? Jenny.
Q- who in your family are you closest to? Elizabeth
K- who is your closest friend? Beast, Jenny, Amy, Trud
A- who do you love more than anyone? Sparky, Beast, Jenny...etc.

DIAMONDS (MONEY AND SUCCESS)
[Deuce]- what's the first time you ever remember getting money? I may have gotten a dollar bill in a birthday card from a relative when I was very young, but the first time I remember being paid is when Mom agreed to pay me 2 cents for every trip to the garbage barrel. I think I maybe cleared a whole quarter before I got bored of it.
[Trey]- what did you do with it? Oh, hell, that was over 35 years ago--who knows!
4- what's the first thing you bought because everyone else was buying it? Barbie stuff. (Technically, it was a gift, though.)
5- what was your favorite gift from childhood? The A.A. Milne books, when I turned 6.
6- what is the most money anyone ever gave you as a child? I probably got $5 occasionally from relatives on birthdays; I don't remember.
7- what's your favorite toy from childhood? My favorite toys as a child were my jumprope and jacks set. My favorite toy that I still have ... uh, either Pink Mouse or some of the board games my parents gave me when they moved out of their house in the 90s.
8- what car do you drive now? Normally I drive a '98 Ford Ranger.
9- where do you live now? In the boonies, in the Great Flyover. (Quite literally: we're directly on the flight path of a major airport.)
10- what's the greatest thing you ever bought? My Lee Rider jeans. They cost me $15 or so about 10 years ago. I have worn them close to 1000 times.
J- what car do you most want? I'd love a jeep. Preferably one that runs on hydrogen. hah
Q- where do you most want to live? Someplace with minimal humidity.
K- what luxury (you'll probably never be able to afford) would you most like? A house on a Greek island and a private jet.
A- what do you consider the pinnacle of success? Appreciating deep-down what you have, what your life is, and being loved by others who recognize and know the real you.

SPADES (LABOR AND CAREER)
[Deuce]- what was your first job? After the Garbage Removal Debacle? :-) Outside the family, it was babysitting. Outside of that, it was shelving books at the local library.
[Trey]- how much did you make? I think I made about $1/hour for the babysitting (see, told ya I was old!), and minimum wage when I was 16 was about $2.75/hour.
4- what was your favorite job? I actually loved planning Sunday School and VBS both summers I was a CE intern at my church. I like working at the library. I still like working at libraries. ;-)
5- why did you leave it? In a very real sense, I haven't left the library. The CE thing...disillustionment caused by my sister's experiences as CE director at her church.
6- did you further your education after high school? Got me my own Master's Degree. Whooptedoo!
7- what did you study? Undergrad: BAs in Communications and History (double minors: English and Spanish). And that MLIS thing.
8- what is your current job? Cataloger/Head of Tech.Svc. at a medium-sized public library in the midwest.
9- how long have you been doing your job? This job: about 6 years. I've worked where I work since 1994, but most of that time was general reference.
10- what do you plan to eventually go to? Huh? I plan to go to...well, ultimately, I hope I get in to heaven.
J- do you like your boss? Huh. Normally, the answer would be an unqualified yes. Lately, she's been a GIANT pain-in-the-ass, though.
Q- if money were no object, what would you do? I'd probably keep doing what I do, but I'd travel a lot more too.
K- what's the hardest thing you've ever done? Stick it out, stay put, get through it.
A- what's the hardest thing you've ever done, purely out of kindness? Listened to someone I wanted to beat about the head and shoulders. If you're reading this, I'm not talking to you, but I do have one specific individual in mind.

CLUBS (WAR AND CONFLICT)
[Deuce]- are you upset about something? At this moment, things are pretty placid.
[Trey]- why does it upset you? n/a
4- are you not talking to someone? Schedule Nazi...well, I speak to her, but only to communicate information, not to actually chat. I just want to kill her. No, scratch that: I want her to go far away.
5- is someone not talking to you? Unfortunately, no.
6- were you personally affected by september 11th? Of course, though I don't know anyone who was injured or died. BIL lives in Manhattan, my niece Ellen was flying to the US that day from England, my inlaws were in Canada...it was a nightmare of logistics, but in terms of perspective, a learning experience.
7- has it changed your personal habits? Well, flying anywhere nowadays is certainly a fuck of a lot more frustrating and annoying! Otherwise...I think I'm slightly less naive politically than I was.
8- if you were drafted, would you object? If I were drafted, we'd be in more shit than I could conscientiously object to. However, I would object if Sparky were drafted!
9- can you see yourself dying for your country? I would not die for George Bush/Dick Cheney, Inc. I would, however, die to protect the freedom and ideals this country actually stands for.
10- can you see yourself dying for anything else? Yes.
J- what is the worst news you ever recieved? This is depressing. So...plock.
Q- when was the last time you cried? Today, listening to music.
K- when was the last time you hit someone? In order to hurt them--it's been a very long time. A small, joshing punch on the upper arm--maybe a couple of days.
A- have you ever genuinely wanted to kill someone? No, mostly I just want them to Go Away, get offa my cloud.


#208
BOLD ALL THAT APPLY:

I have a dog named Chewy.

I hate plain white socks.

My dad's name is Tommy.

I've been to Texas.

I have more than one cat.

My mother smokes.

I love wearing pajamas.

I have one best friend that I can always count on.

I love mac-n-cheese.

I hate the color yellow. [I'm not fond of it, but I don't hate it like I did in my 20s.]

I have a lot of money. [Define "a lot."]

I can drive.

I own a car.

I have a sister in college.

I have a brother in college.

I hate waking up early.

I have too many clothes. [However, I have WAY fewer clothes than the average American female!]

I like the tv show Lost.

I hate playing computer games.

I believe in God.

I go to church every Sunday. [Two or three times a month.]

I love roller coasters.

I have watched someone die.

I live with my parents.

I love talking on the phone. [I'd rather eat glass mostly.]

I can type really fast.

My favorite color is blue.

I have had a crush on the same person for almost a year.

My best friend is always over my house.

I own a baby pig.

I love pajamas. [Didn't we cover this earlier...?]

I think Good Charlotte rocks. [They're ok, not my favorite, but not the worst thing ever.]

Eminem is my favorite rapper.

I have over 20 good friends.

I love pink lemonade.

I get got really good grades in school.

I don't have a job.

My least favorite subject is math.

My uncle lives with me.

I own over 30 pairs of shoes.

I love to go to the beach. [I enjoy the ocean, but it's not "love" and I live a LONG way from it, anyway.]

I always fight with my parents. [I used to fight with Mom, but not anymore.]

My room is always a mess.

I like my own name.

I think rap is the best kind of music.

I love to eat crabs. [I like crabmeat, but I don't like the way the question is phrased.]

I can drive.

I have gone to the movies in the last week.

I have a boyfriend. [My husband frowns on me having boyfriends. I have friends who are men, though.]

My feet are cold right now.

I do drugs. [Legal, prescribed ones and OTC ones only.]

My dad owns his own company. [He owned several over his lifetime.]

I hate going to the doctor.

One day I wanna swim in a pool full of jello. [Is it even possible to swim in jello??]


#209

[1] My name starts with a "C".
[2] I am 17 or younger.
[3] My birthday is in November.
[4] I am not currently in school.
[5] I dye my hair a lot. [Every 5-6 weeks...?]
[6] My eyes change colors.
[7] I have two sisters.
[8] I am an aunt/uncle.
[9] I live with only one parent.
[10] I live in North Carolina.
[11] I'm a Republican.
[12] I support the war. [I support the soldiers fighting, but I think the war is a scandal of major proportions.]
[13] I have at least 10 people on my favorites.
[14] I'm in love with my boyfriend/girlfriend.
[15] I'm pro-choice.
[16] I am a Christian, though I don't practice it a lot.
[17] I support the war in Iraq, and I support George Bush. [see #12]
[18] I am obsessed with a celebrity.
[19] I love to go to the movies as often as possible.
[20] My boyfriend is my best friend. [My husband is...]
[21] I work at a restaurant.
[22] I love comments.
[23] If you talk to me, I talk to you.
[24] I am obsessive compulsive. A little....
[25] I am also clinically depressed. In the winter, I definitely am. In the summer...usually not, but this year that seems to be incorrect.
[26] I'm a daddy's girl.
[27] I can watch the same movie over and over again, and it never gets old. [That would be Beast. It drives me Nuckin' FUTS!!]
[28] I have at least 3 pets.
[29] I want to go to college or have been to college.
[30] I love sports. I love watching some of them. Others bore the crap outta me (ahem...baseball...ahem)
[31] I wish I could go back to high school or I am in high school.
[32] I don't like shopping at the mall.
[33] When I do go to the mall, I crave Dippin' Dots everytime.
[34] I like popcorn at home, but I don't like it at the movies.
[35] I'm very picky about what I eat.
[36] I love chewing gum.
[37] I'm saving my money for something expensive.
[38] I have a car.
[39] Which is irrelevant because I have no license.
[40] I don't talk to my mom. [OK, did she put you up to asking that???]
[41] I'm a very honest person.
[42] Sometimes too honest.
[43] I'm also a very jealous girlfriend.
[44] Cheating while in a relationship or helping someone cheat is repulsive.
[45] I write in my blog/diary a lot.
[46] I feel if I don't do chainletters it's bad luck.
[47] But I'm not superstitious, really.
[48] I don't think Kurt Cobain killed himself. [Well, then who the fuck DID he kill?]
[50] I'm paranoid about having the car doors locked at all times the vehicle is moving.
[51] I don't give a damn what people think about me. Though sometimes I probably should.
[52] I wear my jelly bracelets all the time.
[53] I have a new love for Sheri Moon Zombie. [who...? Oh nevermind]
[54] I have AIM, YAHOO, and MSN. [By default, yes: I use Meebo.]
[55] I have a passion for writing.
[56] I can multi-task listening to music and doing anything else.
[57] My goal in life is to have a "New York Times Best Seller" novel.
[58] I love Shakespeare.
[59] If Oprah is still around when I finish my novel, I would love for it to be in the "Oprah's Book Club".
[60] One of my books will be somewhat of an autobiography, my life has had plenty of up and downs to keep the reader hooked.
[61] I want to publish one of my songs after finding someone to write out the music to suit it and have someone great sing it.
[62] I have been a model.
[63] I am very smart, though of course I have my ditzy moments.
[64] I have an obsession with spelling and punctuation.
[65] I have never been popular at school, but on the internet people love me. [If the last phrase here said that on the internet I've made new friends, I'd highlight this one...]
[66] I don't think I'm pretty.
[67] I can't apologize well in person, but if I write you a letter saying sorry there's no way for you to not forgive me.
[68] I can't stand the smell of leather. [I lovelovelove the smell of leather...!]
[69] But I love the smell of gasoline.
[70] I am in love with someone right now.
[71] I love talking on my cell phone more than the house phone.
[72] I have tried to work out often, but I've failed. [I've succeeded at times too. Not recently, mind you...]
[73] My favorite website is MySpace.
[74] I wish I weighed less.
[75] I hate competition. [I thrive on competition.]
[76] I love the color black.
[77] I hate Abercrombie and Fitch.
[78] My head currently hurts.
[79] I smoke marijuana... on occasion. [I would if I weren't paranoid about getting caught.]
[80] I sometimes drink alcohol.
[81] I have almost perfect teeth.
[82] I love bubble baths.
[83] I have had braces.
[84] I love Chuck Taylor Converse. [I'd like to get some someday.]
[85] I watch all sorts of reality TV shows. [only two]
[86] I am addicted to Pepsi.
[87] I smoke cigarettes.
[88] The only makeup I would ever consider wearing is black eyeliner.
[89] I am bisexual.
[90] I watch porn. [I have done. I don't really make it a habit.]
[91] I collect pictures of friends and family and they're all over my walls.
[92] I don't wear contacts or glasses.
[93] I only have one middle name.
[94] I am not happy with my body.
[95] I am a nympho. [..as if I'm going to admit to that here!]
[96] I want a tattoo or a few tattoos.
[97] I've had a lot of peircings, and I want some more.
[98] I want kids when I'm older or I already have kids.
[99] I weigh more than 150 pounds.

Friday Fill-In

(Link in blogroll)

1. On my laziest day I like to sleep!
2. Cleaning makes me feel like I'm being productive.
3. I love little babies and big towels. [I dunno; it doesn't make sense to me, either...]
4. This summer I want to get out in the sun more than last year.
5. Amy made me start my blog.
6. Red sunsets and orange traffic cones.
7. And as for the weekend, to[morrow ]night I'm looking forward to packing, tomorrow Saturday my plans include driving to the in-laws' and Sunday, I want to be as unobtrusive as possible!

Blogthings...

...apparently are written by college-age people, because everytime school isn't in session, they explode!

You Are in the Oral Stage of Development

According to Dr. Freud, you are stuck in the oral stage of development. If you were orally denied as a child, you may be sarcastic and pessimistic. If you were orally indulged as a child, you may be spoiled and a bit gullible. You may not have the cliched "oral fixation" most times, but it's likely to come out during times of stress.

What Freudian Stage Are You In?

OK. Not totally shocking, I guess. I'm also glad that I didn't have to admit to being some of the "less glamorous" stages. ;-)

---

What Your Fridge Says About You

You aren't greedy, but you don't really deprive yourself either. You strike a good balance with the stuff you buy. You tend to be a fairly thrifty person. You splurge occasionally, but you're mostly a saver. You are a very adventurous person. You love to try new things, and you get bored very easily. You try to be responsible, but you don't always succeed. Your heart is in the right place though. You are likely married, possibly with kids.

What Do the Contents of Your Refrigerator Say About You?

Yup yup yup.

I'm going to go back and do this one as my mother to see what her result would have been...."You tend to be a very hedonistic, greedy person. You have trouble saying no to what you want." Actually, the reason for that result is that she was used to shopping for a family of 6 and never got used to not cramming all kinds of stuff in the fridge.

---

Your Response is: Stay Calm

You don't have much of a fight or flight response. In fact, you rather do neither. You don't like getting worked up. You are able to approach most threats calmly and rationally. You don't let your emotions get the best of you!

How Do You Respond: Fight or Flight?

I think my responses to most of these things are very situational. Some I get really freaked-out about, some I could care less about, which overall scores as "balanced" but emotionally I feel more like a trainwreck than "calm and rational."

General blahblahblah

(found here)

ARE YOU?
1. Perfect? Uh, yeah....NO!
2. Tall? Above average height for a woman.
3. In your pajamas? I'm wearing jammie bottoms, but my T-shirt is the one I was wearing all day.
4. Left handed? No.

LAST:
1. Friend you saw: Besides Beast? Someone at work, I guess.
2. Talked to on the phone: Sparky.
3. Person to text you: Sparky, on Saturday.
4. Was today better than yesterday? No.

FAVORITE:
1. Number: 16 or 3.
2. Color(s): Blue.
3. Food: Iced sugar cookies.
4. Place: Bed. Or Ouray.

QUESTIONS & ANSWERS:
Q: What was the first thing you did this morning when you got up? Took out the earplugs.

Q: Do you have anything bothering you? ...oh, ja...

Q: What's the last movie you watched in theaters? Speed Racer

Q: Where is the last place you went? Work.

Q: Do you smile often? Sure.

Q: Do you wish upon stars? No.

Q: Are you a friendly person? I can be.

Q: Where did you sleep last night? In bed.

Q: Why did you sleep there? Because it was the closest comfortable spot to a bathroom; I was a little unwell last night.

Q: When was the last time you cried? Started to this morning. I think I cried yesterday. I dunno. I cry a lot.

Q: What do you hear right now? 48 Hrs. Hard Evidence, one of the guinea pigs drinking water, Beast rustling his magazine....

Q: Does anything hurt right now? No pain right now. I'm a little tired, and the damn hives are making themselves known.

Q: What's your favorite month? September/October.

TEN EMOTIONS:
1. Are you missing someone right now? Plock

2. Are you happy? I'm much less unhappy than I was last week.

3. Are you sad? Yes. But in a sorta intellectual way, not so emotional.

4. Are you bored? I'm tired, not bored.

6. Are you nervous? Nnnno...? Should I be?

7. Are you single? There's only one of me, but I live with people.

8. Are you tired? Oh, for FUCK's sake, YES!

9. Are your parents still married? Well, yes, but also not so much.

10. Do you trust your significant other? Of course.


001. Real name? Hermangilda Gudrun Boadicca Feinwald. So much for anonymity.
002. Nick name? Would that be Cat.?
003. Eye color? Hazel
004. Zodiac sign? Scorpio
005. Male or female? Just checked again: I'm female.
006. Single? plock
007. Crushing? Uh, a little.
008. Slut? Me? Hah. No.
009. Smart? I consider myself smart. There are those who would disagree.
010. Hair color? The real color is brown with gray streaks. I've got red and ash in there too.
011. Long or short hair? Shoulder length.
013. Sweats or Jeans? Jeans.
014. Phone or Camera? Depends on what I need to do: make a call, or take a photo.
015. Health freak? Hella no!
016. Drink or Smoke? Given those two options, a drink, please.
019. Piercings? Ears.
020. Tattoos? No.
021. Righty or lefty? Righty.
22. has been kidnapped by aliens.

FIRSTS :
023. First piercing? Earlobes.
024. First best friend? Laura Dev0re.
025. First award? No clue.
026. First crush? J!m Ph!ll!ps.
027. First pet? Peppy the Parakeet.
028. First big vacation? We did vacations every year. They were always big in my eyes.
29. through 48. are at a square dance.

CURRENTLY :
049. Eating? Nothing.
050. Drinking? Water.
053. Listening to? TV ads. The current one is a promo for Flip This House.
054. Plans for today? Bath, then bed.
055. Waiting for? There's always something happening around here; I don't need to wait.
56. through 67. are standing in line for Indiana Jones tickets.

WHICH IS BETTER WITH GIRL/BOY?
068. Lips or eyes? Lips.
070. Shorter or taller? Tall.
072. Romantic or spontaneous? I'm more practical than either of those.
073. Nice stomach or nice arms? Uh...chest?
074. Sensitive or loud? Whatever is appropriate to the circumstances.
075. Hook-up or relationship? Relationship.
76., 77., and 78. are waiting for their luggage at the airport.

HAVE YOU EVER :
079. Drank bubbles? I have drunk them, but not since I was a young child.
080. Lost glasses/contacts? No.
081. Ran away from home? No
084. Broken someone's heart? Dunno.
085. Been arrested? No.
86., 87., and 88. are sitting around the fire, roasting marshmallows.

DO YOU BELIEVE IN:
089. Yourself? Mostly, yes. It's been a little shaky lately.
090. Miracles? Yes.
091. Love at first sight? No.
092. Heaven? Yes.
093. Santa Claus? Kinda.
094. Sex on the first date? I believe it occurs. I think it may not be the best idea, generally.
095. Kiss on the first date? I don't see why not, if the spirit moves.

Sugah

You Are a Sweet Person

When it comes to snacks, you're more likely to grab some candy than heat up a pizza. There's a good chance you're female (women prefer sweet snacks)... Or at least, you prefer to be in the company of women. Your tastes are simple and predictable. You are young at heart. You tend to crave food you can just grab and eat.

Are You Sweet or Salty?

Another home run!

196-198

(from here)

#196

1. What's on your mind right now? Making dinner, and typing fast before the laptop battery dies.

2. Where is your biological father right now? Heaven.

3. Have you ever made out in a basement? Hmmm, probably. Don't remember any specifics though.

4. Which shoe do you put on first? Right.

5. What is the status of you and the last person you kissed? He's still my son. I think we're getting along ok right now. Then again, what do I know??

6. Do you get distracted easily? Fuck yea...what?

7. What's the last text you received say? Too lazy to look.

8. What's the last text you sent say? See previous answer.

9. Have you ever kissed anyone named Amanda? Not sexually. Probably not at all, but I may have kissed one of the Amanda's I know on the cheek at some point.

10. First time you kissed the last person you kissed? Uh. Soon after he was born...?

11. What was your childhood nickname? My family doesn't believe in nicknames. In high school, a friend occasionally called me Tater Tot. It makes me giggle, but it was never a serious nickname.

12. What would you change about your life right now? ...only everything outside this house...

13. How do you feel about public displays of affection? I don't mind a kiss & hug, but groping and continuous kissing is kind of annoying. I know, it's because it makes me jealous, but still.... ;-)

14. What's the weirdest thing you have done while driving? SOOOoooooo not going there.

15. Have you ever bitten your nails? Still do.

16. Do you live alone? Not so's I've noticed.

17. Do you smoke? Last week I felt like I was steaming a lot....

18. Can you keep a secret? Depends. Some I can, some I won't, some I choose not to.

19. What was the best year of your life? 1968.

20. Do you have any strange phobias? I don't find any of my fears strange. Hence my choice to call them 'fear' instead of 'phobia.' Phobias aren't rational.

21. Your favorite romantic movie is? I liked Miss Congeniality and Four Weddings and a Funeral. Haven't seen a rom-com in awhile though.

22. Are you happy with your living arrangement? Generally, yes.

23. Have you ever played Twister? Of course.

25. Last thing received in the mail? Myself: junkmail from GEICO.

26. What color is your phone? We have three black house phones and one beige one. My cell is silver.

27. Do you like your cellphone or do you want a new one? I like mine, but it's starting to wear out.

28. Do you have trust issues? Yep.

29. Do you use smiley faces on the computer a lot? More than anyone I work with.

30. Do you tend to rip the paper off water bottles? Nope. I have done it, but not often.

31. Who was the last person you talked to on the phone? Sparky.

32. Do you like to cuddle? Sometimes.

33. Have you ever hated someone, but ended up being friends with them?
no.

34. What was the last advice someone gave you? I'm boycotting ALL advice from ANYone, regardless of how well-meaning it is. PLOCK PLOCK PLOCK. I hate being the youngest...!

35. What was going through your mind during your last kiss? I have no idea.

36. Have you ever physically hurt anyone when you were mad? To my everlasting regret, yes.

37. Is it easier to forgive or forget? Forget. ;-)

38. Do you give out second chances too easily? Not so much anymore.

39. What is the most important thing in any relationship? Patience.

40. Kiss with your eyes open or closed? Usually closed.

41. Do you have a best friend? I think so.

42. Are you happy for your last ex? I don't spend a lot of time thinking about him, really.

43. Do you trust people easily? Not so much anymore.

44. Would you live with someone without marrying them? Prolly.

45. Ever had plans and broke them? Well, shit, after 44+ years, I should think it could have happened once or twice, yeah!

46. Do you think your last ex is a player? Not anymore, probably.

47. Do you have a friend of the opposite sex that you talk to a lot? Yes.

48. Do you remember what you were like a year ago? Yes. It's one of the joys of journaling (blogging).

49. Have you ever had a dream about people you love dying? Yes...sigh.

50. Who was the last person you cried in front of? Almost cried in front of two coworkers today.

51. Have you ever shaved in the kitchen sink? Don't think so. Don't remember it, if I did.

52. Is it awkward when you run into ex's?. OK, first: shouldn't this be "exes"? And second: Is this a question or a statement? Third: no. Because I don't often, and the one time it happened--at our college reunion a couple of years ago--it was really quite funny to see EVERYthing cross his face once he realized who I was. hee hee hee

53. Have you ever changed clothes in a vehicle? Yup.

54. Where did you last go? Go? To the bathroom? Or just...go?


#197

1. Are you wearing a necklace? No. Shocked? You shouldn't be!

2. Does your computer have a mouse? I'm using Beast's laptop, to which he occasionally attaches a mouse. Right now, it's free of rodentia.

3. Who are the main people you chill wit in each of your classes? "Chill wit"? Er....I'm not taking any classes.

4. Do you have a cut in your nose? Why do I feel as if I'm in the twilight zone? No, but am I missing subtext here?

5. Are you rich? By world standards, yes. By U.S. standards, no.

6. How many bedrooms do you have in your house? 3.

7. What song are you listening to? No music.

8. Do you have any older siblings? Yes. They annoy me. That's all I'm saying.

9. What is the last thing you ate? Ate: a mini Kit-Kat bar about two hours ago. I've had a piece of gum since then though.

10. Who was the last person to come over your house? Probably the pizza dude, but that was awhile ago.

11. Who was the last person that called you? Sparky says he called my cell this afternoon, but I never got his message, much less the call.

12. Who was the last person you texted? Sparky, on Saturday.

13. What time is it? 5:26 pm

14. What should you be doing? Making dinner.

15. Who is the last person you IMed? Beast.

16. Did you go out to eat yesterday? Yes.

17. What are you thinking right now? "I need to type faster...and go make dinner."

18. What color is your shirt? Pale army green.

19. What color is your keyboard? Black keys, dark gray background.

20. What do you feel like eating? Rice.

21. Are you in college? No.

22. What is the last real word you wrote? "No." (see above). If you mean "wrote by hand" it was probably a call # in a book, so I'll go with "Fiction."

23. Are you bored? Nah.

24. How many teeth do you have? 24 in my mouth. The other 8 are around here somewhere....in a box.

25. Miss anyone right now? plock

26. What color are your shoes? The ones I wore to work today were brown. I'm currently barefoot.

27. Are your toes painted? No. Neither are my toenails. That's on the schedule tonight though.

28. Last thing you drank? Took a swig o' DDP about three questions ago.

29. Last real word you typed? "ago" Der.

30. Who do you love? I loves you, Porgy.

31. Do you have a boyfriend/girlfriend? No. Just a hubby.

32. What time is it now? 5:31 pm

33. What are you looking at? The computer screen. der

34. What's the last word you said? "idea"

35. Do you have lipgloss on? No, though there is a faint trace of Chapstick.

36. Do you have eyeliner on? Nope.


#198

1. When was the last time you shaved your legs? Sunday night.

2. What were you doing this morning at 7:00? IMing Beast and emailing, I think.

3. What were you doing 15 minutes ago? This.

4. What are you wearing? Aforementioned T-shirt, brown jeans.

5. Are you mad at anyone right now? CBA

6. Last person to say they loved you? Beast or Sparky. Not sure who.

7. Last time you kissed someone? This morning.

8. Do you know the words to the song on your MySpace profile? Plock (ergo: no MySpace)

9. Last thing received in the mail? Still the same GEICO crap.

11. Have you ever had sex in a public place? Yeah.

12. Have you ever been searched by the cops? Nope.

14. How many different drinks have you had today? DDP and water.

15. What have you eaten today? Bagel with cream cheese, chef salad, half a roll, a tiny KitKat bar, two cookies, and two pieces of gum.

16. Are you any good at math? I can manage it, usually.

17. Do you have plans on Saturday night? We'll be at the in-laws. Talking. Lots of talking.

18. Do you draw your name in the sand when you go to the beach? N.

19. Do you prefer beer or liquor? I don't like beer at all. Wine or vodka, please.

20. Have you ever been awake for 48 hours straight? No.

21. Do you like the ocean? It's fine, yes.

22. Do you stay friends with your ex? No.

23. What are you excited about? ALA.

24. What did you do last night? Cleaned our bathroom, cursorily, watched Dirty Jobs, read....slept.

25. Are any of your great-grandparents still alive? Oh, yeah, right: they'd be about 140 years old.

26. Where do you keep your change? In my wallet.

27. Do you remember the most naughty night of your life? Yes. And I remember it very fondly, but with a little embarrassment.

28. Would you rather sleep with someone else, or alone? Depends.

29. Do you like someone right now? No. I hate everyone in the universe. sigh OF COURSE I DO!

30. Would you kiss anyone on your top friends list? Yes.

(In)Dependent?

Your Independence Level: Medium

In some aspects of your life, you can be very self reliant. Making your own informed choices feels great. But you aren't as independent as you could be. When things get stressful, you sometimes run away from the hard decisions you need to make.

How Independent Are You?

100% spot on!

Manic Monday

(Link in blogroll)

If you knew that every minute of the next 24 hours of your life would be recorded on camera is there anything you would change about your habits?

I'd probably avoid picking my nose. ;-) Are the cameras going to follow me into the bathroom too? Bummer. It's really a horrible thought. Thanks, Lisa, for making me shudder out of paranoia.

If you could take a one-month trip to any single destination in the world and money is not a consideration, where would you go?

Australia from mid-January to mid-Feburary. Can I at least travel around the country/continent if I leave it that vague?

What is the best example of "perfection" that you can think of?

Babies' and small children's giggles, like this:

Curious as a Cat

(Link in blogroll)

1) How often do you see your parents? Would you rather see them more often, less often, or about as often as you currently see them?

I see my mom every couple of years. Dad died 13 years ago. I'd like to see them, as they were when I was Sparky's age, more often, but yeah.....not bloody likely!

2) What do you most like or appreciate about the opposite sex?

Besides the obvious physical characteristic(s)...? :-) Uh, I actually like the fact that with (most) men, what you see/hear is what you get. There's not the level of game-playing (usually) there is with (many) women.

3) With which person from history would you choose to change places?

Permanently? No thanks. Temporarily, I'd like to swap with one of my grandmothers.

4) What is the emptiest part of your life?

My personal time is pretty chewed up. I'm not really liking anyone in my family right now, either.

5) 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

It looks like sunup in the woods, very peaceful.

Except the other mental picture I have is my eldest nephew riding his go-cart through woods like this when he was a teenager. Not so peaceful. ;-)

Friday's Feast

(Link in blogroll)

Appetizer
What is the nearest big city to your home?

The City That Works, unless you really want to count The Forest City. ;-)

Soup
On a scale of 1-10 with 10 being highest, how well do you keep secrets?

I'm about a 7, but spotty. Some secrets I can't keep, some I will keep on penalty of torture. The former is exemplified by finding out the identity of an anonymous blogger related to my job. The latter is exemplified by some things I know about some of my best friends.

Salad
Describe your hair (color, texture, length).

It is dark brown with (fake) red and ash highlights and (real) gray roots, chin-length, kind of wavy most days. It's also starting to get the kinked gray texture. sigh.

Main Course
What kind of driver are you? Courteous? Aggressive? Slow?

Generally, I'm pretty courteous, but impatient. I'm not aggressive, and not slow. However, around here my "not slow" is snail-like. I'm intolerant of stupidity and people who actually drive at or below the speed limit in front of me.

Dessert
When was the last time you had a really bad week?

Genius timing: this week was the longest, worst week emotionally that I've had in probably five years at least. Yesterday I was comparing it to the years following my sister's and dad's death in overall crapitude. Right now, things are good, but I still feel pretty wind-blown and shaky.

Friday Fun

(Link in blogroll)
The Fives Edition

1. What are the last five books you have read?

Just One Look, by Harlan Coben (on CD)
In the Frame, by Helen Mirren
Motorcycle Jackets, by Rin Tanaka
Dakota, by Martha Grimes
The Invention of Hugo Cabret, by Brian Selznick

2. Name five places in the world you would love to go to.

Places I haven't visited yet: The Serengeti, Australia, Alaska, the Ozarks, The Netherlands, Venice.
Places I have visited, but would like to return: St. Petersburg, Florence, Ydra, Ouray, Door County.

3. Name five people who have strongly influenced your life, both good and bad,… not counting family!

PsychoBoss, Dr. Cope, Les @very, Trud, Jenny.

4. Name five things you have accomplished that you are proud of, big or small!

Graduating from high school and college magna cum laude.
Getting my master's degree.
Outlasting PsychoBoss.
Surviving my emotions.
Being married for 22 years (nearly).

5. Name five things you still want to do in your life.

Fly in a small plane (or just "fly a small plane" hee)
Learn to let things go.
Read the Bible cover to cover.
Travel the county in an RV for an extended period of time.
Go to a movie alone.

Friday Fiver

(Link in blogroll)
One more trip

1. Are you a good worker?

Yes. Unless and until you piss me off, and then I am astounding at finding low-priority things to work on instead of the Big Stuff. Which I did all week this week.

2. What do you carry?

Guilt and worry.

3. Do you know your neighbors?

It's odd: I know everyone on one side and behind us, and virtually no one on the other side.

4. Where do you like to go for a day trip?

G@lena. The resort town just north of us. ANYwhere, frankly, right now, would be wonderful!!

5. What is at your feet?

My feet are in the air right now, on the recliner. Otherwise, the only thing on the floor near me is the area rug.

Friday Five

(Link in blogroll)
TV Time!

1. What's your favourite TV network?

We seem to be spending a lot of time on CBS and Discovery lately. It's about even. I'm not counting FOX-based NASCAR time....

2. If you could create your own channel, what would it be?

I wouldn't bother. There's too much crap already on.

3. What TV show did you watch as a child, that you wish they would bring back?

I loved "Bewitched." And "Gilligan's Island." Oh, and "Match Game" and "Password" the latter of which I see actually IS coming back!

4. What show have you always hated, and wonder why they ever made such a dumb show?

"Seinfeld." It's the Jackson Pollock of sitcoms.

5. What TV show's seasons would you buy on DVD?

All of MacGyver, all of CSI (Vegas), all of Dirty Jobs, and the first through third seasons of "Real World." Everything except the last show I actually have purchased for the library collection. ;-)

Friday Fill-Ins

(Link in blogroll)

1. There is absolutely NO way you can get me to do anything work-related until Tuesday!
2. The return of allergy symptoms reminds me that summer is almost here!
3. I cannot live without my Chapstick.
4. Driving a semi and driving a motorcycle are two things I'd like to try.
5. When life hands you lemons add rum and coke.
6. Lots of unstructured free time is my favorite childhood memory.
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to meming, tomorrow my plans include hanging out with Beast far away from anything anime-related (except maybe the Speed Racer movie) and Sunday, I want to skip church (but we'll probably go)!

Royalty

Your Noble British Name Is:

Lady Guinevere Helena Nunneley

What's Your Noble British Name?

Friday 5

(Link in blogroll)
Old, Young

1. What makes you feel old?

Many, many things. More things than make me feel young. The worm has turned.

2. What makes you feel young?

Exercising (alone), some of the people I work with, music, several family members.

3. What was better when you were allowed to do it the old way?

Downloading OCLC records & updating our holdings. Going to school (I don't remember considering death as an event to worry about at school, plus I walked all 13 years--no buses to take me anywhere morning or afternoon).

4. What’s better now that you do it the new way?

Mail (as in email). Keeping track of my reading lists. Interlibrary loan.

5. What’s something you are old school about?

Who is running the show in the family. (Hint: It ain't Sparky.)