Showing posts with label Advice. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Advice. Show all posts

Sunday, September 29, 2019

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
Thought Provoking Questions
These are questions suggested by Markandangel

If you could instill one piece of advice in a newborn baby’s mind, what advice would you give?
Hell no! I'll be taking advice from this source, not polluting it with my stupidity!
What is the most desirable trait another person can possess?
Self-awareness.
What are you most grateful for?
Small moments of joy and painlessness.
Is stealing to feed a starving child wrong?
Nope.
What do you want most?
Peace.
Are you more worried about doing things right, or doing the right things?
I tend toward doing things right as often as possible; I need to pay more attention to doing the right things regardless of perfectibility.
What has life taught you recently?
Just cutting back on food intake or eating healthier food doesn't cause weight loss. So frustrating.
What is the one thing you would most like to change about the world?
I would really like people to spend more time listening with an open mind.
Where do you find inspiration?
Kids and animals, some weather (e.g. thunderstorms) and sleep.
Can you describe your life in a six word sentence?
"Just take it as it comes."
If we learn from our mistakes, why are we always so afraid to make a mistake?
Because pride. Ego, if you prefer.
What impact do you want to leave on the world?
Aside from kindness, I'd actually like to leave as little impact as possible. Call me nuts.
What is the most defining moment of your life thus far?
Life continues after tragedy, and there are ALWAYS things to be learned, often from surprising people and events.
In the haste of your daily life, what are you not seeing?
Realistically, if I'm not seeing it, I'm, uh, ... not seeing it.
To answer the implicit question, I'm often very unaware of how set in my ways I am.
If life is so short, why do we do so many things we don’t like and like so many things we don’t do?
"I don’t understand myself at all, for I really want to do what is right, but I can’t. I do what I don’t want to—what I hate. I know perfectly well that what I am doing is wrong, and my bad conscience proves that I agree with these laws I am breaking. But I can’t help myself because I’m no longer doing it.... When I want to do good, I don’t; and when I try not to do wrong, I do it anyway." (Romans 7:15-17a, 19 (NLB))

Paul had one answer for that. I tend to agree with him in the abstract sense: because it feels better to do the wrong thing often. Or it is or seems easier.
What lifts your spirits when life gets you down?
Music. Sleep. Venting to a trusted person.
Have you ever regretted something you did not say or do?
Only every motherlovin' day! Good God, this is my life. "Regrets, I have a few..."
Has your greatest fear ever come true?
Ayup. Usually with a twist because God's a funny guy.
Why do we think of others the most when they’re gone?
I don't really think I do; I am fairly certain I think about my Mom now as often as I did when she was still around. However, I think we all like to think about past times of our lives that seem much easier than today. I also strong distrust this rosy view of the past. My life wasn't appreciably "better" in my 20s, though some things were easier. Other things were pretty awful and I'd never want to do it again.
What is your most beloved childhood memory?
I've been thinking a lot lately about playing jacks (metal ones!) on the sidewalk in front on my house. We had a driveway pad that was very smooth so my hand didn't get all torn up scooping. I loved jacks....

Sunday, December 3, 2017

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
Monday Morning Meme

1. How has your life most benefited from the Internet? Whether it’s meeting people, cutting business overhead, finding rare collectibles, or simply sharing funny cat pictures, share how the web has made life easier.
I've been able to connect with all kinds of people I would normally never have met. That is the best part of the internet as a whole. And I can choose not to engage with people online who are jerks, unlike real life.
2. How do you deal with negative comments on your blog?
Depends on what kind of negativity. If it's insanity, I just delete it. If it's conversational, I'll conversate.
3. There’s never enough time, is there? What would you do with an extra three hours today?
Sleep. It's always about sleep.
4. The getaway car is waiting outside – where is it taking you?
Anywhere. Honestly, but I can only be gone for about 12 hours and then I need to get back to work.
5. Who was your "arch enemy" in high school? Do you have any enemies today?
I tried :hard to not be on anyone's radar in high school. To be honest, by the time high school rolled around, I didn't really worry too much. Grade school was a whole different story; there was this kid named Paul who hated me....
6. You’re giving the keynote address to the graduating seniors of a high school today. What’s your advice to them?
Prioritize, and enjoy the ride.
7. Thinking of words of wisdom: What's the worst advice you've ever received?
"Be yourself" when I was young. WTH? I had no idea who I was so this was completely unhelpful!
8. Tell us about the best summer vacation you EVER had.
I spent 5 weeks with my oldest sister Ellen and her family in 1975 while my parents went overseas to visit Jean and Reg for the first time. It was the best 5 weeks of my childhood.
9. What do you have to have with you when you travel? Why?
My meds, and about thirty other practical things.
10. Would you accept $1,000,000 tax free, if it meant you had to leave the country and never come back?
Absolutely!
11. Do you believe the world will be a better, or worse, place 100 years from now?
I have to believe that it will be better than it is right now.
12. Do you expect to buy a new winter coat this year?
Nope. No money for that.
13. If you could spend one year in perfect happiness but afterward would remember nothing of the experience, would you do so?
Nope. It's all about the memories for me.
+ + + + + + + + +

A Book Meme

1. Do you prefer hardcover, paperback, or Kindle...and why?
Overall, I'd rather read a hardcover, but it's not like I refuse to read ebooks or paperbacks (or audiobooks for that matter). Why? I can block open a hardcover on a counter easier than a paperback or reader.
2. If I were to own a book shop I would call it ...
I wouldn't own a bookstore. I wouldn't be a good seller of anything at all.
3. My favorite quote from a book (mention the title) is ...
“Hell is — other people!” ―Jean-Paul Sartre (No Exit)
4. The author (alive or dead) I would love to have lunch with would be ...
Sartre would actually be an interesting choice. He'd probably want to smoke though. Yuck.
5. If I was going to a deserted island and could only bring one book, except for the SAS survival guide, it would be ...
I wouldn't be bringing books. I'd be too busy trying to do things like eat and get rescued.
6. I would love someone to invent a bookish gadget that ...
... corrected all the typos and grammar issues in books. It's so distracting when an author uses the wrong word.
7. The smell of an old book reminds me of ...
... allergies. Really, I only sniff brand-new books. Old books are full of mold and dust and god-only-knows what else.
8. If I could be the lead character in a book (mention the title), it would be ...
... Alice in Wonderland. Although I do feel as if I'm there more often than not.
9. The most over-rated book of all time is...
... just about anything by Hemingway. Or Flaubert.
10. I hate it when a book...
... can't get itself started until page 100 or later. Ugh!!

Sunday, April 23, 2017

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
The Money Time Questions

1. What are five passions that you have? (If you have less than five, tell us where you do have an interest.)
Literacy, history, kids, reading, learning.
2. List up to ten random facts about yourself.
1. I have hazel eyes.
2. My feet are currently freezing.
3. My house currently smells like smoke and burnt food.
4. Those last two are connected: I'm burn-cleaning the oven. It stinks and it's not really warm enough to have every door and window open.
5. There's a nap in my immediate future.
6. I ate a whole package of Twizzlers yesterday.
7. My eyesight is lousy.
8. These questions make my mind go blank, so it's taking me bloody-forever to do this. Ugh.
9. I need to get the oil in my car changed this week.
10. My feet are still cold.
3. List five people (personal, historic, living or dead) who have had a major impact on your life or the way you think.
Jesus, my parents (that's one, right?), Corrie ten Boom, Martin Luther King, Jr., and Les (my pastor as a kid).
4. List 5 things you'd tell your 15 year-old self, if you could.
1. Stand up for yourself.
2. Listen to your conscience.
3. No one likes a know-it-all.
4. Your instincts are good: if you think someone is lying to you, the probably are.
5. Not everything is your fault.
5. What is a major strength that you have? (You can list more than one. Staying with our no rules approach.)
I read people pretty well.
6. What is a major weakness that you have? (You can list more than one. STILL staying with our no rules approach.)
I second-guess myself.
7. Describe the family dynamic of your childhood versus your family dynamic now.
I'm the adult child of an adult child of an alcoholic. My childhood, aside from the floating anger from one parent, was pretty good because my parents worked hard to make it so. Life today is, maybe, becoming pretty good because my alcoholic husband is not currently drinking.
8. What popular notion do you feel that the world has most wrong?
That any of us is all the center of the universe.
9. Name three things that always cheers you up when you are down.
Babies' giggles, music, reading.
10. Name three things would you like to be remembered for?
Loving kids, being a good worker, making killer mac'n'cheese.

Saturday, January 14, 2017

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
Wake Me Up Before You Go Go (1984)
Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) This song was inspired by a note WHAM! partner Andrew Ridgeley left for his parents. He accidentally wrote "go" twice. What was the last handwritten note you left for someone?
I write notes to people at work all the time. I'm pretty much certain there's no way around a handwritten note once in awhile, even with text and IM and email. Sometimes you need to put something WITH the thing you're talking about -- in my case books than need specific attention.
Also, an aside: back when this song was on the radio all the time, I worked with a dear friend named Ian who was from England and of Portuguese and Irish descent. We always teased him because he really had a whole George Michael vibe going, in looks and general coolness. We all were living in the same house together as workmates, about 10 of us, and one morning he left me a note saying "Wake me up before you go-go, Ian" with musical notes on it. I still have it somewhere. I've, sadly, lost track of Ian himself, however. :'(
2) Born Georgios Panayiotou, George Michael was the son of the Greek restauranteur in East London. When you think of Greek cuisine, what comes to mind?
Light & flaky dough, fish, amazing sauces, street gyros, baklava. I so wish I were in Athens or Ydra right now.......
3) He was a terrible driver and admitted his license was suspended a number of times. Have you ever lost your license?
Nope. I've had precisely 2 traffic tickets in my life.  There have been a lot of other times I skated away with only fear and a guilty conscience to keep me honest, for which I'm very thankful.
4) WHAM! partner Andrew Ridgeley, on the other hand, is a talented driver who got to live his fantasy by racing Formula Three in Monaco. There are companies that sell racetrack driving experiences that allow you to spin around the track at dizzying speeds. Is this something you like to try?
YES!! This sounds absolutely terrifying, and fun.
5) In 1990, Frank Sinatra famously gave George Michael advice. Ol' Blue Eyes told the younger man to enjoy his fame, to remember all those lean nights traveling from gig to gig by bus and, now that he's successful, "loosen up and swing, man." Who last gave you advice? Did you take it?
People give me advice at work all day, every damn day. I don't listen to most of it unless it's just plain weird. I can't think of anything from yesterday beyond the usual demand that I have a good weekend. lol
6) Mr. Michael's neighbors have reported since his passing that he seemed to live rather quietly, and that they usually saw him when he was out walking his three dogs. Tell us about the last time you spoke to one of your neighbors.
It's winter in the Upper Midwest of the U.S. The only reason I know I have neighbors at all is that their cars go in & out of the driveways, and the snow gets shoveled. Oh and the dogs are let out & back in.
Actually, within about six weeks in late fall we got new neighbors, and I haven't even really identified one of the households' people for sure yet. They are literally one house over and across from us, but it's been brutal and there are no reasons to go outside and be social this time of year.
7) Fansites tell us that George Michael's favorite cereal was cornflakes. What breakfast cereals are currently in your kitchen?
Off-brand Froot Loops and Cinnamon Toast thingies and some muesli-ish stuff for my family members when they visit. Technically, only the former is in my kitchen; the others are in the pantry. The muesli probably needs to be pitched.
8) In 1984, when "Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go" was popular, Murder, She Wrote premiered on CBS. Today it's still seen in reruns all over the world. Are you a fan?
Nope. I mean, really, she lived in a tiny little town and people dropped dead around her for 12 seasons. Wouldn't that be a tad bit suspicious in real life?
9) RANDOM QUESTION: What's your secret to a good night's sleep?
Melatonin, exhaustion, and earplugs.

Sunday, December 18, 2016

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
The Here-to-Serve 16 Questions

1. Which is worse? Being gossiped about or being lied to?
I work with mostly women. I hate to be sexist, but gossip is EV'rywhere there. I'm pretty much over it, have been for years, but I really hate being lied to. That's been a peeve of mine since high school when my bestiest friend--with whom I'd been friends for a decade at that point--suddenly began to spout ridiculous lies about everything imaginable. Her parents were going through a rough patch, had separated, and I thought at the time the lying was a reaction to that. I still think so, but anyway, the lying drove me nuts. It was just pointless: dates she didn't go on, guys she hooked up with (that she did not, and no, I didn't ask the guys--I knew), prizes she won, diseases she'd been diagnosed with.... She eventually stopped, but I should've paid closer attention: she let me down over and over since then, a couple of times were just enormously hurtful things.
Wow. OK, moving on with my life now. :)
2. What is your favorite "Starbucks" drink? Or if you have better taste, Dunkin’Donuts?
I don't drink coffee in any version, I don't like hot chocolate, and frankly I'd rather have a bottle of pop over high-priced tea.
3. Name an embarrassing moment (Make it good).
Hmm. There are SO MANY from which to choose... I've been reliving that awesome moment in 4th grade lately, when we were playing some tag game in gym class and I ran full-tilt into the side of the school (which was home base) because I was watching behind me to see if I was going to get tagged. Bam, knee first into bricks. I'm pretty sure I bounced. I know the gym teacher had at least two other kids walk me to the nurse's office. I think I probably whacked my head too, but I don't remember that, just all the blood on my leg and the resulting scar. And the total mortification of being such a klutz. A young (teenaged) friend of mine attempted a major league move in gym class last week that ended up with his nose meeting at full tilt. He had to have surgery Friday.
4. Is it hard for you to ask some to forgive you when you have wronged them?
Yes. The worse the behavior the harder to ask.
4. Who do you wish you could meet?
I'm really hoping that once the Obamas get back to my neck of the woods, I have an opportunity to meet Michelle. Or at least perhaps hear her speak live.
5. Best food comes from which country?
Whichever one you're in at the time. Fresh is truly best.
6. Do you like small talk, or deep conversations?
Both have their place in day-to-day life. I probably lean toward preferring deep conversations, but I'm easy.
7. Who do you most want to encourage this year?
Those feeling unwelcome in the U.S. these days.
8. If those who know you best gave you one piece of advice, what would they say? Would they be right? What will you do about it?
All the advice I listen to involves words like "detachment," "compartmentalization," "let go, let God," or "checking in." All good advice, and mostly stuff I listen to and try to put into practice.
9. How often do you get real sick?
"Real" sick? Not very often, thank goodness.
10. Are you a person who has a whole lot of acquaintances, or just a few very close friends?
Yep.
11. If you could cure a disease, or heal a sickness, which one would you choose?
I would happy to knock Parkinson's Disease right off the list of Horrifying Things That the Body Does.
12. What was your favorite book of 2016?
I've read some great books this year. The best non-fiction was Pastrix: The Cranky, Beautiful Faith of a Sinner & Saint by Nina Bolz-Weber. Best fiction...is harder...but I'll go with The Home for Wayward Clocks, by Kathie Giorgio.
13. What was one of your biggest accomplishments in 2016?
Surviving. Growing, even.
14. If you could be guaranteed a spot on the reality show "Survivor", would you go?
Not even on a guarantee of BILLION-dollar prize.
15. Which is worse? Shopping for Jeans or a bathing suit?
I don't own, and probably will never again own, a swimsuit, so the default answer has to be jeans. But they aren't that big of a deal to shop for, because (again) I'm not fussy.
16. How old was your oldest living relative (still living or in the past)? [editor's note: I haven't got a clue as to what this question means either. That's why it's perfect...]
Both of my grandmothers lived well into their 90s. If that's even close to a coherent interpretation of this question.
And a Merry Question #4 to all!

Saturday, October 8, 2016

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
My Life Would Suck Without You (2009)
Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.
This song always cracks me up--it's written so "the way people talk" and it could never have been played on the radio when I was a teen because of That Word! hee hee

1) This video begins with Ms. Clarkson on a swing. When you were young, did you prefer the swings or the slide?
Oh swings! I loved swinging. I still enjoy it, but when I get too high, I now get vertigo which isn't fun. Also, the seats are not made for grown-up hips.
2) The first words are, "Guess this means you're sorry." Who is the last person to apologize to you?
The woman next to me at meeting last night apologized for crying. Oh, and Beast probably apologized a couple of times when I woke him up coming to bed; he does that on auto-pilot. Makes me nuts.
3) One of Kelly's earliest show business jobs was as an extra on Sabrina, The Teenage Witch. Do you believe in witches and warlocks?
I believe that people believe in witchcraft. I think there is magic* in the world. I'm not sure anyone can actually control (all the) forces of nature, but I do like stories about witches.
4) Mentioning witches and seeing Kelly with a lollipop reminds Sam ... She needs to pick up a 1 lb. bag of Dum Dums for Trick or Treaters. Have you done anything in preparation for Halloween?
Nope. I usually don't buy candy till a couple of days before. That way I'm less tempted to eat it all before the kids show up.
5) Ms. Clarkson's advice to aspiring young singers is not to listen to advice. "Everyone gives you their 2¢ worth, but you have to follow your gut." Are you good at soliciting and following advice? Or do you tend to follow your gut?
I solicit occasionally, receive (by the bucket-load) constantly, and allow the good stuff to percolate before I make a decision.
6) The year this song was popular, 2009, saw two major newspapers go out of business. Both the Seattle Post Intelligencer and Rocky Mountain News published their last editions. Do you still read a paper copy of your local newspaper?
The local (daily) paper is abysmal and frankly a joke. I read the headlines via RSS to stay abreast of the Big Stuff. I do read the (weekly) paper though. The writing is better and since it's just about my town, it's actually full of stuff I should know.
7) In 2009, Mark Zuckerberg confirmed that Facebook tried to buy Twitter, but was rebuffed. Which social media site do you spend the most time on?
Facebook, no contest.
8) In 2009, the Balmain Collection included a pair of jeans that retailed for $2,165. What's the most you would pay for denim pants?
I can get Lee jeans for less than $30 if I watch for sales. I would certainly never pay more than $60 or so. I'm a freakin' cheapskate!
9) Random question: You buy a charity raffle ticket and tuck it into a friend's birthday card. Before you can give the card to her, the numbers are drawn and you realize the ticket is worth $500. Do you keep the ticket or give it to your friend, as planned?
Give it over. I don't really do money raffles, or the lottery--deep-seated training about gambling (even though I play in Vegas ... so I'm a bit contradictory! shrug)--so it would feel really cheaty to cash in someone else's present.
_____________
*By "magic" I really mean both "things we don't fully understand" and "amazing, wonderful, miraculous things."

Sunday, April 3, 2016

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
Survey 212 Meme

Is your birth year an odd or even number?
It's only fitting that it's an odd year, no?
Which one of your friends is the most outgoing?
Probably Beast. No wait, T., at work, talks to E V E R Y O N E!
Have you eaten any of your favorite foods today?
Yup. Bacon. And donuts. And pancakes.
When did you last find yourself in an awkward situation?
Well, this morning when I realized 5 minutes into Sunday School that I was "the" teacher not the backup. So, punt: "What's Easter about?"
When was the last time you ignored, or went against, someone’s advice?
I can't think of a specific time lately, but I'm frequently the recipient of "suggestions" either from my older family members or from random patrons at work. I mostly ignore ALL of it these days and do my own thing.
What happened?
Since I can't remember any horrific outcomes, I'm assuming nothing at all.
How many different towns/cities have you lived in?
I have received mail in six towns, seven zip codes, and eight home addresses. Plus work, and post office boxes.
When was the last time you had Nutella?
Been awhile. I have some, but I have to be in the right mood for it.
Who is your favorite character in“The Big Bang Theory”?
I have never watched the show. On principle, though, I like Mayim Bialik a lot.
What are your parents’ middle names?
One was the first name of the narrator of a famous book by Louisa May Alcott. The other was the first name of the last--not the current--Prince Consort of England.
Name someone with a sexy sounding voice.
The guy who is reading my current book on CD is pretty awesome--I never, ever thought the Cajun accent was all that, but holy Joe...he's changing my mind. Also, Kathleen Turner.
Are your eyes the same color as your sibling’s?
I think my sister Marie and I have the same color eyes: hazel. My brother has blue eyes.
How many pets do you have? Would you like any more?
I have one guinea pig. I'd love a dog. But once this piggy is going, were done. I'm allergic to EVERYTHING furry, apparently.
Is there a song you can’t stop listening to atm?
I heard one this morning in the car called "Pacing the Cage" that I'm kind of obsessing about--never heard it before but the lyrics were interesting. Need to find it on Spotify.
Is there a song that you’re fed up of hearing?
Just about anything from the 80s that hit top 10. I listened to the radio (and watched MTV) a little too much back then....
Did you have a strange or interesting dream last night?
I didn't sleep all that well. I know I dreamed, but I don't remember anything.
Name 3 things that are in your refrigerator atm.
Leftovers, cheese, pop.
Which friend do you confide in most?
These days, Vickie.
What was your most recent reason for smiling?
Something silly that Beast just read me from his daily page calendar about beggars and cruisers.

Sunday, January 17, 2016

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
Why Do You Want To Know That Meme, part four

76. What is the best advice you’ve ever been given?
I probably wasn't listening to the absolute best that was given, but "Trust yourself" is pretty close to the top of what I remember.
77. Is it easier to forgive or forget?
Much easier to forget. SOOOOOoooo much easier!
78. First mobile phone?
I didn't get one till about 10-12 years ago. Maybe 2002?
79. Strangest dream?
I have strange dreams nearly every night. No, actually, I'm sure have have strange dreams EVERY night, but I remember only the ones in which I'm enmeshed when the alarm wakes me.
80. Best dream?
See above. I have some really awesomely funny weird dreams....
81. Who is the smartest person you know?
Depends on what we're measuring. Book-smart? Experience-smart? Emotional-smart? I know an awful lot of very smart people, for whom and for which I'm ever-thankful.
82. Who is the prettiest person on you know?
It's rare for me to run across someone I can't find some sort of beauty in. There are very few truly ugly people out there, even the ones whose exterior isn't easy on the eyes.
83. Do you miss anyone right now?
Yes. Always. It ebbs and flows and right now the tap is WIIIIIDE open.
84. Who do you love? Why?
I'm trying to work on loving everyone. It's not easy.
85. Do you like sharing?
I'm the Queen of Sharing, which is also something I'm working on, and also not easy to change.
86. What was the last picture you took with your phone?
I posted this to Facebook last Wednesday. Yes I'm a little behind on the origami calendar.....
87. Is there a reason behind everything that happens?
Sure. Or at the very least a teachable moment.
88. Favorite genre of music?
"Good"--I like lots of genres, including classic rock, heavy metal, rap, R&B, country, folk, indie, Christian, Middle-Eastern, funk, old pop (like Sinatra, Crosby, Clooney, Lee), Afro-pop, reggae, ska, house, what my dad called "long-hair music" (a.k.a. "Classical)....
89. If you had one word to describe yourself, what would it be?
"Unfinished."
90. Describe your life in 5 words.
"I don't have a clue."
91. Craziest thing you’ve ever done?
Crazy from whose standpoint? Mine when I did it, or looking back on it? Craziest thing I can think of that turned out great and that I never have regretted is going to college 1000 miles from home. In so many ways, that's when my real life started.
92. First three songs in your favorite playlist?
The first three I added to my starred list on Spotify are "Lullabye (Goodnight, My Angel)" by Billy Joel, "Fadeaway" by Da Bodeans, and "Black, White, Tan" by Nicole Mullen. Alphabetically by author (and omitting bands starting with numbers), it's "Wake Up" by Aaradhna, "My Savior My God" by Aaron Shust, and "Dancing Queen" by ABBA. Alpha by title (and omitting numbered song titles): "The A Team" by Ed Sheeran, "ABC" by the Jackson 5, and "Ackee 1-2-3" by The English Beat. That gives you a fair approximation of what my headphones sounds like at work.
93. Are you more creative or logical?
I'm more logical most of the time.
94. Would you rather lie or hurt someone with the truth?
I'm too honest by far about answering people's questions, though I have learned a tiny bit of tact over the years.
95. What are you most proud of?
The growth I've accomplished over the past few years in delineating boundaries, in forgiving myself and others for being human, and for standing my ground.
96. What personality trait do you admire in other people?
Joy.
97. When you imagine yourself as really, really relaxed and happy, what are you doing?
Sleeping. hah OK, or playing with kids. Or reading in the sun.
98. How do you usually start a conversation?
"Hi" usually works for me. Not real creative (see #93), is it? Often I open a conversation with a question: "Can you help me?" "What's your name?" "How do you know [the host or whoever got me there]?" Simple is better.

Saturday, July 11, 2015

...a long distance out of the way...

(Swiped from Amy)

What's the best piece of advice anyone has ever given you?
A version of "not my circus, not my monkeys" that involved snakes about 10 years ago. I have to re-hear it regularly as I'm prone in sticking my nose into things it would be better off out of. [Grammar is my friend...]
If a loved one was to serenade you, what song would you most like them to sing?
Whatever song they'd like. However, I must stipulate that they can at least bring a bucket in which to carry a tune in. Beast can't sing at all, and Sparky isn't quite there yet either.
Would you ever let your parents pick out a partner for you?
Nope, and it's too late now. And they wouldn't've anyway. I'm more likely to listen to their advice as I get older, however, which is somewhat ironic now that I can't.
Michelangelo's David...masterpiece or filth?
"Filth" because he's naked? Please, get over your penis-phobia! And it's an amazing work of art. I will never forget my first sight of it in the Accademia in 1985. Astounding, jaw-dropping, un-fucking-believable.
Do you like other people buying you clothes?
Depends on the article of clothing. Sometimes its spot on, something I love and will wear. More often it's weird or the wrong size. My mom, funnily enough, chose good things for me even after multiple strokes until she stopped shopping because ... stuff got hard. No one else has matched her prowess. :'(
What one device would you want to see added to a mobile phone?
I just got a new phone and I can't think of a thing it doesn't have, except a "louder" (i.e., more noticeable) vibrate feature. I guess I'll just have to turn up the volume and annoy my coworkers with sounds.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years' time?
I'll be nearly 62. Probably still at least 5 years from full-benefits retirement, as they've raised the age for state employment vestment to 67. I hope I can make it that long. Honestly, I don't know what I'll do if/when I retire. Maybe I'll have grandkids, or at least a daughter-in-law, by then? I'm not holding my break. I love Sparky to death, but right now he's a bit of a know-it-all/spaz.
Do your dreams ever tell you to do anything?
Not really in the sense of ordering me around. My dreams often 'reinterpret' what's been going on in my waking life and help me sort out the important stuff. Or just point out the Tragically Weird. And often I wake up thinking, "Why in hell was I obsessing all night about (this week) making sure Sparky gets a checking account??" Which we did this morning.
Have you ever been to an Art gallery?
Uhm, yes. Of course. There was one on my college campus, right by the dining room. Many libraries I've been in have had small galleries attached. Mine does, now, for instance. Starbucks even has gallery space to rent! And of course museums too. Endless hallways inside the Vatican come to mind, full of so much art it seems almost obscene that what we're seeing is "just the good stuff." And some Native galleries in various locales...Vegas, Arizona, Minnesota.
Do you shout out the answers at the TV whilst watching quiz shows?
I've been known to mutter. And occasionally, when contestants are ridiculously dumb, I have shouted. I don't watch too many of them anymore, though.
Are you a valuable asset on a Pub Quiz team?
Probably, but since I don't hang out in pubs, or anyplace where there's regular trivia contests it's not been a thing. No one I know is willing to play Trivial Pursuit with me anymore, though, even the smarty-smart people of my acquaintance. Sad face.
If you could bankrupt one person or company who would it be?
Weapons manufacturers and dealers. This song is a bit extreme, but the gist of it works for me.
If you could steal one thing without consequence what would it be?
Babies for snuggles. Until they start doing the stinky-screamy thing and then they go right back to their parents.
Something I'd steal and keep? Maybe all the handguns in the world...and throw them into an active volcano.

Friday, June 12, 2015

Friday 5 x 2

(Link in meme-roll)
Blithering Idiom
  1. On what topic did you last offer your uninvited two cents?
  2. I spent the day today having no opinion on anything unless absolutely necessary (like, I chose what to order for lunch). It's been one of those weeks when no matter what I chose at work got me in trouble. OOH! Actually, I did send an email to a good friend yesterday after reading a very disturbing post on her blog. Mostly, I just confirmed that the situation she's suddenly found herself in is psychotic and scary and told her to be safe.
  3. What situation this past week most resembled a three-ring circus?
  4. The schedule at work has been completely fubar this week, more than usual. And it's Summer Reading chaos all the time too, so...yeah.
  5. When did you recently give someone the four-one-one?
  6. That's my job at work. The last person I helped was a little guy, maybe 3 years old, looking for the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles books.
  7. What were you in the middle of the last time you took five, and how did you spend the time?
  8. I spent 10 minutes catching up on Facebook earlier, showing a couple of coworkers pictures for my newest great-nephew. He's, of course, totally adorable!
  9. To what did you last give the deep six?
  10. Several papers I was done working with, and a sticky-note I no longer needed.

Alt
  1. A sandwich is usually some kind of ingredients between slices of bread, but what’s a great sandwich that has no bread at all?
  2. Jimmy John's makes sandwiches with lettuce wrapping the innards. I haven't ever tried one, but that's all I can come up with.
  3. A salad is generally thought of as a mixture of fresh greens, but what’s a great salad whose main ingredients are not veggies?
  4. Fruit salad: strawberries, kiwis, blueberries, banana, pineapple....
  5. Juice is usually the liquid squeezed from a fruit or vegetable. What’s a juice you enjoy that isn’t?
  6. Electricity is juice, no? I appreciate everything it provides.
  7. Milk is usually the food that a mammal produces for its young. How do you feel about milk alternatives that aren’t animal-produced?
  8. I'm not a fan.
  9. A staple is usually some food that forms the basic constituent of a cultural diet. What’s a staple in your diet that doesn’t exactly fit that definition?
  10. Diet Dr. Pepper without which life is not worth living.

Sunday, January 11, 2015

Friday 5 x 3

(Link in meme-roll)
Big Latin
  1. Ad infinitum is Latin for “to forever.” What’s something in your life that continues ad infinitum?
  2. Missing family members who are no longer available to call and chat with and hug.
  3. What’s something (mostly) only fellow alumni know about one of your alma maters?
  4. Five years ago I would have mentioned "schlags" but apparently those aren't done anymore. So I guess I'll just have to go with all the haunted buildings on campus. Or, oh hey, Convocations!
  5. In what way did you carpe diem today (or yesterday, if you’re doing this early)?
  6. I bailed on Sunday School and worked an extra couple of hours so I can leave early on Wednesday and go shopping on my way to pick up Sparky from the airport later this week.
  7. In flagrante delicto means “in a blazing wrong” or “while the crime is blazing.” What’s something you remember being caught red-handed perpetrating?
  8. I can't think of anything much. I was a pretty well-behaved kid, as well as a very good liar. Oh! There was the 2-week long lie about swimming lessons when I was about 11.....
  9. What is so far your magnum opus (great work; masterpiece)?
  10. Can I call that Sparky?

Beside Ourselves
  1. Besides cookies, muffins, and ice cream, what’s something chocolate chips are good in?
  2. I have been known to eat them right out of the bag. Also, the mini ones are good in cake and pancakes.
  3. Besides official holidays and your birthday, what’s the best day of the year?
  4. I like July and August a lot, so one of those 62 days.
  5. Besides toilet paper and pantry items, what’s something in your house you make sure never to run out of?
  6. It's never a good thing for us to run out of cheese or bread.
  7. Besides relatives, teachers, and coaches, who gave you the most memorable advice growing up?
  8. Can I say siblings? They are all way older than me and always have plenty of advice. And other people's parents were helpful at times too.
  9. Besides junk mail, subscriptions, greeting cards, and stuff you ordered online, what’s something great that came in the mail recently?
  10. I still subscribe to several magazines, so let's count those.

Song Stuff
  1. What’s a song that reminds you of your parents?
  2. The Depression, and people who have lived in Colorado their whole lives: they have a certain drawl that sounds like my folks. My dad: puns. Oh how he loved puns. ;-)
  3. What’s a song that makes you think of food?
  4. "Bringing in the Sheaves" reminds me of Thanksgiving.
  5. What’s a memorable song from a movie soundtrack?
  6. I grew up memorizing musicals of the 50s through the mid-70s. So, hmm, there are a lot from which to choose. I can't pick one, and I can't pick anything from a straight movie either. Sorry.
  7. What was your favorite song from 2014?
  8. Either "Happy" or "Bang Bang." I still haven't heard "Let It Go" all the way through. Can you tell there are no young girls in my household?
  9. What are your favorite songs for when you’re behind the wheel?
  10. I love John Mellencamp and Bruce Springsteen, or TobyMac, or Melissa Etheridge. Loud. For road trips. Or a good book on CD.

Saturday, June 14, 2014

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
Oh! My Papa (1954)
If you're not familiar with today's song, you can hear it here.

1) Eddie Fisher starred in a popular 1950s TV show, which was sponsored by Coca Cola. Do you have a favorite soft drink?
This will come a huge surprise to long-time readers, but ... yes, I do. I drink a LOT of Diet Dr. Pepper.
2) He was notorious for leaving his famous first wife for his very famous second wife. Can you name either of the women involved in this Hollywood scandal?
Debbie Reynolds was involved one way or another. Wasn't Elizabeth Taylor too? Literally, the only reason I sort of know this is because of Carrie Fisher's biography/ies and this book which, if you love that era in Hollywood, is a must-read. I'm not a fan, but I really enjoyed it for other reasons.
3) His oldest daughter, Carrie Fisher, is best known as Princess Leia from Star Wars. Are you a sci-fi fan?
Oops, skipped ahead... I like the movies, but I absolutely do NOT understand the insanity around them. I prefer Star Trek, myself, though not too many of the movies work for me.
4) Since Sam's father is particular about his footwear and likes "a good pair of Cole Haan loafers," her Father's Day present to him is a DSW gift card. If we were to give you a gift card to any store or restaurant, which would you choose?
I'd take DSW! Maybe my local bookstore, actually.
5) Sam's father hates it when she swears. When is the last time your cursed?
I swear a lot, so probably sometime earlier. I'm alone right now, so I don't think I've be shouting curses into the silence.
6) Sam's father is a voracious reader. So much so that the local librarian knows him on sight and by name. How often do you visit your neighborhood library?
LOLOLOL....every day, my friend, every single damn day--though I've got all weekend off this week which is quite nice. Incidentally, only big cities have "neighborhood libraries" anymore. The rest of us have, generally, one or two per town. Budget cuts, yo.
7) "A good used car is a better investment than a new car." That's what Sam's dad tells her when she's in the market for wheels. Share some other words of financial wisdom with us.
"Buy low, sell high."
In all seriousness, I recommend making a habit of putting something into savings from every paycheck, even if it's just $10 or $25.
8) Every car her father has ever owned had a pro-union bumper sticker. Do you have any bumper stickers on your vehicle?
Well, Sam's dad and my dad were certainly on different political wavelengths. Neither my parents nor I have every had bumper stickers on my car. I don't actually think about buying them at this point in my life.
9) To celebrate Father's Day, Sam is giving away her father's favorite candy: LifeSavers. Would you prefer a roll of Wild Cherry, Butter Rum, Winter Green or Peppermint?
Oh, dear, that's a hard choice. I'm going to go with Wint-o-Green for the sparkability (bonus vision puns at that link).

Saturday, December 7, 2013

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
Stand by Me

1) "Stand by Me" is one of the songs John Lennon did at his last public performance back in 1975. First recorded by Ben E. King, "Stand by Me" was also covered by Mickey Gilley and Otis Redding, among others. Can you think of another song that has been recorded and then re-recorded by someone else?
Well, yeah, quite a few actually. EVERY DAMN CHRISTMAS SONG, for instance. How many versions of "White Christmas" are there, do you thing?? I've heard a lot of 60s girl group songs covered by all and sundry, also lots of gospel, and U2's "One" is a perennial too.
2) The lyrics say, "Whenever you're in trouble, you can stand by me." Tell us about someone you know you can count on.
I have a large pool of very good friends, on whom I've been leaning A LOT in the last 8 weeks or so. And probably for awhile longer than that. One of the blessings in my life is that I recognize that there are plenty of people "standing by" me.
3) While "Stand by Me" was solo Lennon, John is best known as one of the Beatles. Which group do you listen to more often -- The Beatles or The Rolling Stones?
The Beatles. I'm not a Stones fan. They intrigue me, but their music isn't that big of a draw for me.
4) Lennon liked to tell how, when he and Paul McCartney were teens, Paul's father used to discourage friendship between the boys. Paul ignored his dad's advice and the result is the most successful songwriting partnership of the 20th century. Tell us about a piece of advice you're glad you ignored.
"With that History major, you should be a teacher." Uhm, yeah, no. If I could be left alone to teach the kids, then I'd probably reconsider, but I grew up with teachers in the family and knew from a very early age that there's far more interference from administration and idiot parents than I would care to deal with.
5) John loved cats. When he was a teenager, he first met his favorite, a stray he named Tich, in the snow and gave the cat a safe, lifelong home. John was very proud that Tich lived to be 20 years old. Tell us about a pet who has a place in your heart.
Don't they all? I loved our last dog though. She was spectacularly awesome: kind-hearted, gentle, funny, smart, loving, inexhaustable, a big fraidy-cat, and extremely sheddy. She was the best.
6) John unsuccessfully tried hypnosis in his quest to stop smoking. Have you ever been hypnotized?
No. I know someone whose being treated for depression with something weirdly similar to this, along the lines of EMDR.
7) John has been inducted into both the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame. What Hall of Fame would like to see yourself in?
Is there a Meme-Answering Hall of Fame? Yeah, that one. I'd probably already be in the Procrastinator's Hall of Fame, but I keep 'forgetting' to send in the application.
8) John had a passion for slot cars and raced them on an elaborate track in his game room. What games or toys do you still enjoy?
I enjoy cards, solitaire up to poker and sheepshead--Gawd, I haven't played that in probably six years!!--with detours into random weird kids' games like War, Crazy 8s, Beat Your Neighbors, and Egyptian Rat Screw.
9) John wrote about his jealous streak. What personality trait of yours do you wish you could change?
I speak without thinking ALL the time. I hate it. It's ridiculous the number of times this week--hell, the last 24 hours--I should have had duct tape over my mouth. Maybe I should just start speaking Ubby Dubby instead of English.....[everyone under 35 or 40 will be googling that, I expect]

Saturday, November 16, 2013

Friday 5

(Link in meme-roll)
Signs
  1. Who is the most unyielding person you know?
    I'm related to a lot of people like this. It's quite the party when they're (we're) all together, let me tell you!
  2. Where did you last experience an unexpected soft shoulder?
    Dawn. "Oh, my gosh--all that in less than 5 years?!" Yeah.
  3. What’s something you wish would just stop?
    Winter's imminence. It's raining and windy and just YUCK today. I wish it were March.
  4. What’s a recent decision you wish you could make a U-turn on?
    So many choices... Let's go with eating er, vacuuming up enough food to feed a small African village this week.
  5. What mundane task do you think most people do the wrong way?
    Choosing passwords.

Saturday, November 9, 2013

Patrick's Place

(Link in meme-roll)
Saturday Six

1. Think of the thing you fear the most that has stopped you from doing something you've wanted to do. Without revealing the fear or the action it is stopping, how long have you allowed that fear to get in your way?
Only a few decades.
2. Of the people who've had the greatest impact on your life, which one would you most like to have the greatest impact on?
My son. [though I'm not sure I understand the question completely]
3. If you didn't know how old you truly were and someone asked your age, based on how you feel about yourself and society itself, how old would you think you were?
I would estimate my age to be 45-50. Which is accurate.
4. A quote attributed to Bruce Lee tells us we should "Be happy, but never satisfied." Are you often more happy or more satisfied?
I'm neither...or both. To me, being satisfied is being happy.
5. If you had a close friend who spoke to you with the same intensity and criticism you used when speaking to yourself, would you want that friend to stay in your life?
Hell no! They'd make a good coach or therapist if they had a bit of tact, though.
6. You are invited to speak at a graduation ceremony and give advice to the students, but you are told that because of the sheer number of graduates, you’ll only have 30 seconds to speak. What important advice will you the graduates in those 30 seconds?
Don't listen to what other people tell you you "should" do. Do the next right thing. And then the next. And then the next. And so on for the rest of your life.

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
Potential New Boyfriend

Unfamiliar with this week's featured song? Hear it here.

1) In this song, Dolly Parton locks eyes with a definite maybe. What's the first thing that attracts you to a potential new boyfriend or girlfriend? If you're currently in a relationship, what first attracted you to your partner?
Shoulders. And presence.
2) When Dolly was still a very young girl, she met Johnny Cash, who told her to follow her instincts and pursue a music career. Obviously this worked out very well for her. What's the best advice you ever received?
My dad told me one day when I didn't want to go to school that we all have things we don't want to do that need to be done. He was on his way to bankruptcy court that day. I went to school. We both lived through it.
3) Dolly enjoys telling interviewers how she met her husband at the Wishy-Washy Laundromat in Nashville. Do you have a load of dirty clothes, or some other household chore, waiting for you after you finish this week's Saturday 9?
There is laundry to be done. I have a long list of things I should be doing. Like...reading.
4) Dolly's Imagination Library is a charity devoted to children's literacy. What book did you enjoy as a kid? Or, if you're a parent, what book did you enjoy sharing with your own children?
I read incessantly as a child. I read incessantly to him when Sparky was a kid. There are too many books to list here, but I enjoy the Little House series and Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle, and hundreds of others.
5) Dolly's theme park, Dollywood, is a very popular vacation destination. When you have time off, would you rather travel or have friends/relatives visit you?
Well, first of all, I won't be going to Dollywood. I'd rather travel, but not there.
6) Dolly is godmother to Miley Cyrus. If you could advise Miley, what would you say?
I would tell her to do whatever she needs to to to be the best person she can be. And don't listen to haters.
7) Dolly has earned a reputation for being very warm and friendly to the public. Have you ever had a celebrity encounter?
Nope, not so much.
8) As you can see by the photo, this song was originally released on vinyl. Do you still have any old-school LPs or 45s?
I do. I have both, downstairs, waiting to be transferred to CD in my free time.
9) Sam simply cannot stand Dish TV's Hopper commercial, where hysterical grown men hide under the bed and up in a tree house because they're afraid of ... something. What commercial just bugs the beejeesus out of you?
That one is ridiculous. I fast-forward during the ads usually (when I can), but there are so many ambulance-chasing, reverse mortgage, shrill ads on IonTV during Criminal Intent and Cold Case that I'm about to hire the teams from both shows to dig up some dirt on the people in those ads just to shut them up for awhile.

Saturday, May 11, 2013

Curious as a Cat

(Link in meme-roll)

1) You are given the opportunity to talk to one dead person and say one thing that you didn't get to say before s/he passed away. Who would you pick and what would you say?
I would love a chance to apologize to my sister Ellen for not being around more in the last few months of her life.
2) What was the worst advice you ever gave?
Oh, I give shitty advice all the time! When I look back on things I've suggested to people, I shudder. I'm hopeful they ignored me.
3) What is the weirdest thing you own?
Well, we have 4 tribbles. That's kinda weird. Maybe the weirdest part is that I'd admit it, but I gotta tell you, they are fabulous ice-breakers at parties!
4) Show and Tell. What comes to mind first when you see this picture? Or, tell a story if it reminds you of one.
Photo © Cat. 2012
This was taken out of the window of the boutique hotel we stayed at on Parent's Weekend in the town in which we went to college and where Sparky is currently matriculating. So, yeah, it's dusk in October, but it could be dusk today since it's actually cooler today than it was then. Anyway, this is an area called Five Points, which seems to be a recurring theme of the towns in which I've lived. The base of this photo, the bottom 1/4 of the picture, is actually the windowsill--the walls are about 2 feet thick in this building. Love this place.

Sunday, December 16, 2012

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
The Deleted Meme

Who is your favorite artist? (Any field.)
Leonardo da Vinci. Or Melissa Etheridge. ;-)
Describe yourself:
I've spent the past 8.5 years doing that on this blog, and elsewhere online. I'm not about to start regurgitating all that today in this space.
How do you feel today?
Not great. I think I've got allergies acting up on top of the end of a cold, and I just want to SLEEEEEEPPPP.
Describe the area where you currently live.
Upper midwest U.S., to the east of the center of the continent.
If you could go anywhere, where would you go?
Right now I'd like to be anywhere warm, not humid, and sunny.
Your favorite form of transportation:
I like cars simply because of the amount of control they give me to get where I want to go fairly quickly. I used to love flying but not anymore. Still like trains, but they are really s u h l o o o o w (in this country, at least).
Your best friend is:
...across the room from me.
You and your best friends are:
...a weird mix, which is why they are my besties.
What's the weather like?
Crappy: cold, damp, and rainy. Rainy. On December 16. smh
Favorite time of day:
I like sunrise, but I usually miss it. I really like midday, being outdoors at that time feels like playing hooky.
If your life was a TV show, what would it be called?
Too bad "My So-Called Life" is taken, cuz that would totally work.
What is life to you?
I tend toward the literal interpretation that involves inhalation and exhalation and a heartbeat. Anything else is what an individual does with it.
Your relationship:
For the love of Mike, WHICH ONE?! Facebook says I have 298 "friends" and that doesn't even count the offline people!
Your fear:
Answering this question.
What is the best advice you have to give:
Go with your gut. And while traveling never pass up the chance to use the bathroom.
Thought for the Day:
Don't take your loved ones for granted. Someday they will be gone and you'll miss being able to hug them.
How would you categorize your soul's present condition:
I just told Facebook I'm going to hell, so probably not good.

Saturday, December 15, 2012

Curious as a Cat x 3

(Link in meme-roll)

#349
1) Make a list of movies you believe everyone should see at least once.
I really can't do this since I'm not a big movie viewer. So, being the way I am, I'll go with Battleship Potemkin. [I've only seen part of it]
2) What was the last random really hurtful thing someone said to you?
I mostly shrug this sort of thing off, since in my family (of origin) Hurtful is the language we revert back to regularly. I'm sure someone at work was the last "really?" comment, but barring that my niece Katherine was in rare form on Thanksgiving.
3) What's the first thing you do when you get off work/out of school?
Go home and take off my shoes.
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
Easter basket!!

#350
1) Do you have any friends you regret not keeping in touch with?
I would love to find a couple of high school friends who are not interested in being found. I am actually a horrible friend in terms of keeping in touch, though.
2) Would you have one of your fingers surgically removed if it guaranteed immunity from all major diseases?
If I could pick a finger, then I might just consider that. Bear in mind, however, that I'm still trying to kick a stupid cold.
3) Which is creepier to see in your kitchen: a mouse or a cockroach?
Cockroach, for sure. Nothing like bugs to make me feel like I need to fumigate the entire building....
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
Feathers. Soft. Pretty.

#351
1) What perks you up on a cold, gloomy day?
A book, a fire in the fireplace, and a warm blanket.
2) Have you ever been to a fashion show?
No. I don't have a bucket list, but this would NEVER make it.
3) Describe the wackiest but most useful advice you've ever received.
Most advice sounds wacky to start with. Throwing oatmeal in the bath, for instance, isn't something normal people would think of, but it definitely helps with hives.
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
This building and my niece & her husband are the ONLY things I've any interest in seeing in Spain.

Sunday, April 8, 2012

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
The OC 25 Meme

1. What is your origin of your first name? What about any nicknames? My sisters named me after a friend. We all have names that are difficult to shorten (mine's the easiest), and my parents did not countenance nicknames.

2. Have you any claims to fame? Absolutely none.

3. If you were famous, how would you introduce yourself to someone who had never heard of you? I wouldn't be famous for a million dollars.

4. Which of your country's achievements do you hold in highest regard? I love that people still expect to U.S. to support the Little Guy. I know from the inside, and from some outsiders, we have a lot of mud on our face, but people still do love the idea of "the land of the free" at least.

5. As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? Older.

6. What was your most prized possession as a child? Do you still have it? Depends on what age. I no longer have my Barbie, but I did eventually get my Laura books back (they were 'donated' to my oldest nieces without my approval when I was about 13). I don't have Snake anymore, but I have most of the posters (from Tiger Beat & Teen Beat) that graced my walls as a teen.

7. What would you change about yourself, if you could? I would have more focus.

8. What are you obsessed with? RDA, which is just annoying.

9. What is your greatest achievement so far, or the high point of your career?  (oops, missed this one) My greatest achievement is not ruining my son; he's turning out to be a pretty cool guy.  Career-wise, I have no idea--this is not my goal at work, I guess.

10. When/where were you happiest? The summer of 1975 was absolutely wonderful. I stayed with my sister and her family for 5 weeks while my parents went overseas to see another sister. I didn't really have to answer to Ellen the way I did to my mom--not that she was permissive, but it was just more laid back.

11. And the lowest point in your life thus far? This past year has pretty much sucked since we got back from Italy and England last April. Two family funerals, 3 overnight stays at the hospital for Beast, plus a couple more where he was only in the ER briefly. I had my own ER visit last April too. Sparky heading to college without any real focus on my part. Work has been one low-morale day after another for the whole staff. I haven't felt connected to my real life for over a year.

12. What was the best decision you ever made? Getting married to Beast, and having a baby with him.

13. If you have any body modifications, which was most painful, or which do you regret the most? If you haven't got any, do you have any planned, or would you ever consider getting any? The only body modifications I've had have not been planned ahead, although you could argue that childbirth was a choice I made. I have pierced ears which were no big deal. I had braces--they were not fun. I've had surgery: that totally sucked.

14. What is the most idiotic thing you have ever done while intoxicated? Having "one more."

15. What is your favorite joke? Three dancers walk into a bar...

16. What is the coolest/most impressive thing you own? Hmm. I don't know. I don't really buy things to impress people. I like most everything in my house, I like my car.... Meh.

17. When did you last cry, and why? I teared up during the worship service this morning. I actually cried at the end of Tenebrae after holding it together for the whole of the service...till Amazing Grace started playing.

18. What's the best piece of advice you've ever had? "Don't pick up snakes."

19. Similarly, what's the nicest thing anyone's ever done for you? Listening. And telling me things I don't know about myself.

20. Have you any vices? Nothing that doesn't involve sugar.

21. Do you regret anything? Only about everything. I try, and mostly succeed, not to dwell on it.

22. What is the best invention ever? Central heat and A/C.

23. How would you describe your relationship with your family? Distant (my birth family). Male-based (my household).

24. Who is your biggest inspiration? Smart people's words.

25. What are you going to do when you've finished Sunday Stealing? Take off my socks--my feet are hot--and go get some jelly beans from the kitchen.
 
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