Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)

Since U Been Gone (2005)

Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here. 

 

1) In this song, Kelly Clarkson is dissatisfied with her relationship and she's moving on. What's something you've moved on from lately? It could be anything from a romance to the laundry detergent you've been using for years.

I stopped being so concerned with tidying up the house before the cleaning crew arrives. Eventually, I'll have things sorted more completely, but right now there are boxes and stacks of Beast's things everywhere that I can't face.

2) She sings that she can now breathe. Studies have shown that July can be a good month for allergy sufferers because trees and grasses are no longer pollinating. How are your eyes, ears, nose and throat this morning?

I'm allergic to corn pollen so as soon as the spring BS settles down, the corn starts its thing and I'm miserable pretty much till the first hard freeze. I live in the world's largest corn field. 

3) Kelly complains that their romance reminds her of a "stupid love song." Let's be more positive: what love song do you associate with positive memories?

I heard Walking on Sunshine for the first time in eons this week and it reminded me of Beasty and I in college when we spent our summers writing writing writing letters to each other.

4) While Kelly's first love is music, she's established herself as a TV personality. In addition to her daytime talk show, she's been a judge on The Voice and hosted an awards show. Have you ever been on TV?

Yes, as a member of a marching band in the Tournament of Roses Parade in 1980.
And never again.
Which is more than fine with me.

5) She has confessed a weakness for Doritos. Would we find salty snacks in your kitchen right now?

I've got a partially-emptied bag of popcorn chips right next to me right now, and a barrel of pretzel rods nearby (thanks, Beast for getting me addicted to these!), and I think there's another bag of something in the snack drawer in the kitchen. I really need to clean that out... [the drawer, not the 'bag of something']

6) Kelly has found her weight the source of public debate. Are you like Kelly, whose weight fluctuates? Or does it stay stable?

I used to be the skinniest kid in the universe. Then I got pregnant at 29 and now weigh 60 lbs. more than just before Sparky was born. Oh well. 

7) In 2005, when this song was popular, a motorist made news in Texas when he was ticketed for driving over 200 mph in a 75 mph zone. Have you ever been pulled over by the police?

Of course I have, but nothing like this. There's a village nearby that used to be a notorious speed trap and they got me once for doing 50 in a 40 zone.
Within the last year a cop pulled me for not fully stopping at the stop sign by the train station on my way home. Warning.
Then there was the time just after Beast moved into Nursing Home from Hell that I got stopped because my license plate was expired. I was within the month and the cop told me to just go get it fixed after I told him where I had just been.
Oh, and back in my young-and-dumb days I was accosted outside my mom's workplace for blowing through a four-way stop by a daycare. The cop read me out, asked why I was parked where I was and when I told him I was picking up my mom he demanded her name, after which he shooed me away with a stern warning. Oh, did I mention my mom worked at the County Courthouse? And he was very familiar with her? He followed me into the building to check my story.
After Beast got popped for a DUI, I was stopped because the car's license was on the state's auto-reader alert. Once he realized I was not Beast, he let me carry on. I offered him an Arby's curly fry in thanks.

8) Also in 2005, Tom Cruise had a pop culture moment when he famously jumped on a sofa. Do you remember where he did this?

I did not see it live, but it was on Oprah. Probably a moment he wishes he could delete from his memory banks... He's a ridiculous man.

9) Random question: Tell us about a photo you wish you'd taken, but didn't.

I have a terrible photo of my dad with Sparky as a baby about a month before Dad passed away. It was the only time they were together and he was doing his patented "soda pop" trick to Sparky's glee. Unfortunately, the sun was behind him and so it's completely washed out. I wish I'd've taken more pics with the two of them, since Sparky is the first kid (5 kids, 9th grandchild) in his lineage to get the auburn hair he had as a young man. 

Well shit now I'm all weepy over my dad...30 years later.

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll) 

January, Part 2 (Misc Questions) 

            

 1. Can you eat with chopsticks? 

I can, but not well and I'd likely starve to death if I tried.

 2. Could you tell real money from counterfeit? 

Probably. I don't see a lot of money anymore. Plastic and EFTs are my best friends.

 3. What do you think about school uniforms? 

I see both sides of the question. I would've hated hated hated them, but I think that's the default student setting.

 4. What ancient civilization would you most like to visit? 

I would like to know about the Incan Empire.

 5. What would make a great new Crayola color? 

There are never enough choices for blue. 💙

 6. If an art project is created with the intent of getting rich and famous, does that cast doubt over its significance as a work of art? 

Nope.

 7. What do you get in trouble for the most? 

Saying things. I have (yet another) post-it reminder on my monitor at work that just says STFU.

 8. Do you blow your nose in public? 

I mean, if necessary. ??  These days, it's a hassle, though so I have to find a closed room.

 9. If all the nations in the world are in debt, where did all the money go? 

Quick note to all: money isn't real. Our imaginations make it worth things.

 10. Is it as easy to make you happy now as it was when you were a child? 

Probably. I don't recall being a particularly "happy" child, although I had a wonderful childhood.

 11. Who knows more ... you, or your parents? 

My parents are dead these many long years hence. So, me, by default, which is frightening.

 12. What instrument would you like to be famous for playing? 

Bagpipes.

 13. Would you have sex with a stranger for one million dollars? 

Nope. Add a B to the amount and I'd totally consider some very vanilla sex. No weird shit.

 14. Are you completely in control of your body? 

Hah! Not even close.

 15. What is the coolest web site you know of?

I'm enjoying Blogger again.

Every family has one

(Link in meme-roll) 

Friday 5

1. Who’s the nastiest flavor in the ice cream parlor? 

I'm gonna go with "what" that flavor is: I don't particularly care for most dark chocolate, but the one that l have the hardest time with is pistachio. That is not a normal ice-cream color! I've never had the nerve to taste it.

2. Which item in the produce aisle is most likely to spoil the party? 

Durian. I'm fairly certain it's not stocked in stores here, thank God.

3. What’s the most embarrassing song by your favorite musician or band? 

So, I love U2, but they can be a little ... dramatic. I can't think of a specific song, but sometimes they are just VERY SINCERE. 

4. Which part of your body is always in trouble? 

Honey, my mouth never stops getting me in trouble!

5. What’s the worst film in your favorite actor’s* filmography? (* “actor” as a non-gender-specific term)

Do I have a favorite actor? Well, I'm not a big fan of Meryl Streep's ABBA movies, but she's allowed to have a couple of weirdo things that are strictly for shits and giggles.

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
Alec Clayton

1. If there's a personal god, what quality would you most like that person to have (and why)?

This question confuses me. Maybe I'm out of practice on answering questions. I'm going to answer, instead, what is the most important to me quality of God. That is, especially this week, that he is always there, always reliable, always forgiving, always putting up with whatever my current attitude is. That is big.

2. What's your death-row meal?

There would be pasta. Basically a good Italian meal, with wine and cheese and meat and fruit and bread and good dessert, all perfectly cooked.

3. Assuming we make it through this outbreak with minimal loss of life, what do you think our big takeaway should be?

We need to take care of each other.
(but I'm not optimistic in the Big Picture; OTOH, my local community is absolutely wonderful)

4. Whom do you find yourself missing more than you would've predicted?

Well, I dreamed last night about two of my three sisters, which was weird since one of them is dead and the other one I think just shows up, with her husband, to irritate me. In the last month, I've also dreamed about my mom regularly, a first since she died 10 years ago, and holy crap do I miss being able to sit with Beast and kick him into gear!!

5. What brings you the most joy? Not happiness, not contentment -- JOY.

Laughter. Real laughter: silliness, giggling, gut-busting. Doesn't have to be me laughing: watching it on Zoom or YouTube works almost as well.

6. Do you find yourself regretting anything you've said or done on social media?

Only everything.

7. What are your favorite and least favorite things about your body and face?

Least favorite: size. Favorite: its sturdiness, my toes, my hair, my mouth.

8. ...and your life?

Least favorite: Let me count the ways, but the big one is not being able to see (or help) Beast in any way. Favorite: my job, my friends (I'm very lucky), my house.

9. How's the self-isolation affecting your libido?

ha ha ha ha....my husband's been in a nursing home now for over 2 years. What libido?

10. Which three places in the physical universe would you most like to visit?

The Valley of the Kings, all of Australia, Mars.

11. On whom did you have a crush years ago? Have you ever told them?

So many... Some of them know and we laugh about it. Some I'll take to the grave.

12. How have your religious views changed since you were in high school?

I'd like to hope I've gotten kinder and more understanding of others.

13. If you could change one law, what would it be?

Can we just legalize cannabis everywhere in the U.S. for crying out loud! I'm not even going for a big one here, just this.

14. If you could add one commandment to the original ten, what would it be?

"Pull your head out of your ass!"

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
Shake It Off (2014)
Unfamiliar with this week's song. Hear it here.

1) This song makes Crazy Sam want to dance. What song inspires you to get on your feet?

There are a lot. Today I was chair dancing with Beast to Chubby Checker's The Twist while he waited for lunch. He was rolling his eyes at me, but he did get into it a little at least; I kept threatening to get him on his feet and do it properly, but he wasn't at all up for that.

2) Paul McCartney met Taylor Swift at the SNL 40 Anniversary special and told her he really enjoys playing and singing this song. What's the last song you sang along with?

This one. I just watched the video; cute. I like the song for all it's fluffiness. Before that, I seem to recall singing along to Nina Simone's version of Mood Indigo in the car earlier today.

3) The lyrics tell us Swift "shakes off" nasty gossip and unfair criticism. What about you? Do you worry about what others think of you?

I don't care at all, with a few exceptions: my boss, my son, and a couple of others.

4) Her parents are big music fans, and were going to name their baby (boy or girl) "Taylor" after their favorite artist, James Taylor. Can you think of a singer that your mom and/or dad really enjoyed?

Heh, I could have been named after Eydie Gorme if my parents had been in the right mood (not at all likely, btw).

5) She grew up on an 11-acre Christmas tree farm. Do you get a fresh tree every year, or do you have an artificial tree, or do you not put up a tree at all?

I have two fake trees (unless Sparky already took one) but I haven't put one up the last two years. Hasn't been very festive.

6) Taylor Swift is 5'10". According to the CDC, the average American woman is 5'4" while men are, on average, 5'9". Are you taller or shorter than average?

I'm closer to Taylor's height than the "average" although this may soon switch as I am shrinking. I am, today, taller than my husband whose head was on my shoulder today as we transferred from chair to bed.

7) She enjoys good, old fashioned mysteries, especially those by Agatha Christie. Are you currently reading a book for pleasure?

I'm reading three, er, four nonfiction books right now. The one I just put down is The Penguin Book of Hell. The others are slightly less intense.

8) Her brother Austin is a freelance photographer who took the official pictures for her 2008 concert tour. Who took the last photo of you?

Good God, I have no idea! Most likely it was a selfie with Beast. Unless you count the video call Sparky and I had on Tuesday.

9) Random question: What's your go-to comfy outfit?

I'm currently in yoga pants and a T (no bra). It's pretty effective as far as comfort.

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
Let's Pretend

1. What is your middle name?

Well, according to the Social Security database, it's in the top 40 names of the last century, but it hasn't been in the top 200 list since the 1950s when it was only in the top 70 or so names. I don't think I've met anyone my age or younger with that name, but you all certainly would recognize it as a "real name" if you heard it.

2. What is your favorite color?

Blue. And I'm not really fussy about what blue: teal, baby, navy, denim... Blue.

3. What’s your lucky number?

I don't think I have one. I don't "play the numbers" as a rule so it's not much of an issue. I have some "favorite" numbers, but not because they're "lucky."
However, there are some weird coincidences in our family in terms of birthdays: lots of people born on the 27th or 25th of various months and we have a pretty good record of having kids born in years ending in 3 since 1933, except we missed 2003 because my nieces missed the program.

4. Do you have any pets?

Just our little guinea pig, Pinto.

5. Where are you from?

This pretty little planet between Mars and Venus. It's lovely. You should visit. Maybe not during hurricane season, though.

6. How tall are you?

At my tallest, I was around 1.73 meters. I've shrunk some since then though.

7. What shoe size are you?

I'm running at about 10 these days. Somehow, it feels like they just keep growing, but I think it's just that my arches keep falling more and more.

8. How many pairs of shoes do you own?

Ha ha ha ha. I'm not quite Imelda-level, but my mom kind of was...it's a goal. We all need goals, right?

9. What was your last dream about?

I have had a bunch of super-weird dreams this week. Lots of traveling, packing, and cleaning. Yeah. Go nuts with all that interpretation.

10. What talents do you have?

Ugh. Right now, it seems my talent involves headaches and irritated GI tracts. Not feeling the joy today.

11. Are you psychic in any way?

I don't even know if I buy psychic powers, to be honest. Sometimes things happen that are creepily coincidental, but I don't think it's psychic.

12. Favorite song?

"Amazing Grace" either the traditional version (sung fairly straight) or Chris Tomlin's version. Though a good gospel version will rock me too.

13. Favorite movie?

Shoah.

14. Are you religious?

Yes.

15. Have you ever been to the hospital?

Of course. I was a candystriper for cryin' out loud. I spent time in hospitals from about age 2 as a visitor (very sick sister). I take Beast to the hospital again this Thursday for another nerve treatment. I spend a lot of time in hospitals. I've only been a patient IN the hospital twice though, thank God!

16. Have you ever been in trouble with the law?

I've gotten one ticket in my life. And I got pulled over last spring because my car came up as suspended, according to the cop; he was really sweet, and it was because Beast's license is suspended, not the car.

17. Have you ever met any celebrities?

Not really. It's not my thing to search them out.

17. What color socks are you wearing?

I have naked feet. It's still summer in my house!

18. Have you ever been famous?

Noooo....I've been in the paper a couple of times when I was interviewed at work. I don't really think that counts, though; both times were local papers.

20. Would you like to be a big celebrity?

ABSOLUTELY NOT!!!

21. What type of music do you like?

I like almost every kind of music, especially if I understand it. Like, I don't really get Asian music but that's probably because I have no conception of how it works, what it's supposed to sound like.

22. How many pillows do you sleep with?

Just one. I have an extra for reading in bed, but it puts my neck at a weird angle for sleeping.

23. What position do you usually sleep in?

Always on my side. Would love to sleep on my stomach sometimes, but not with a CPAP on my face. The only time I ever sleep on my back is if I have an upset stomach. I know, don't ask.

24. How big is your house?

It's about 2100 sq. feet plus basement. FAR too large for two people, but it's full of cra ...er, furniture and uh, stuff, that one or the other of us refuses to get rid of: "we might need it someday."

25. What do you typically have for breakfast?

Usually a bagel with some kind of (sliced) cheese on it.

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
Art History

1. Do you look forward to the spring?

I live in the upper Midwest; the promise of spring is what keeps us all alive from Christmas Day on every winter. "Oh, I saw a bird today!" "Hey, we got two days of sun in a row!" "Are those tree limbs faintly green?"

2. Which area of the sciences do you enjoy the most?

I love physiology. Not so much biology, but the function of systems together. How things are built to work as a unit.

3. If you could own a classical statue in the form of any figure from myth, religion, or even modern fiction, who would you choose?

Athena. I would love to have a copy of the Athena that stood in the Acropolis when it was in its heyday. Of course, we don't know for sure what that statue looked like--I'd want a miniature of it, not full-size, for the record--despite the fake in Nashville. Why Athena? The goddess of wisdom and war.

4. Do you have a good relationship with your mother?

Probably the best I've ever had with her. I mean, we never argue anymore ... (sad face) ... she died 8 years ago.

5. What is your favorite mythological story?

Hmmm. Trying to do this without looking at anything to prompt me. I kind of love the story of Apollo driving the sun across the sky every day. And the story of Prometheus bringing fire to humans, and the punishment he suffered for it. Pretty brutal.

6. If you put on a big feast, what would you serve?

Chicken, burgers, brats, lots of salads, cake, pie. Basically summer cookout fare. However, my usual feast "style" is Thanksgiving-based, so turkey, potatoes, stuffing, veggies, bread, pie pie pie.

7. How do you have fun? (What is your favorite 'Earthly Delight'?)

Reading? Traveling for sure. Laughing for sure.

8. Do you often look for hidden messages and meanings?

Most of the time. Usually not in the moment, but later. However, I'm also very prone to reminding myself that sometimes a cigar is just a cigar.

9. Have you ever received an award or special position?

Yup.

10. If a revolution was about to happen in your country, would you be part of it?

Oh, this is the part that's timely! hee Well, let's put it this way: I visited the Soviet Union at the end of its life as a country. When the U.S. starts to feel like that, I'll be fighting. My dad fought in WW2, I have read extensively about the Holocaust, and when I see that happening here I'll be fighting. I'll let you decide if either of those (or both) scenarios have any application today.

11. Have you ever planned an act of revenge?

Oh, I've done a LOT of planning!! The question is whether I've ever carried any plans out, though, isn't it?
A former boss told me once that the best way to get through a fraught situation is to quietly plan the demise of the person causing trouble. This has stood me in good stead through many meetings since.

12. What is the most dramatic thing you have ever done?

I don't generally DO dramatic. Maybe throwing the bag of trash back at the people who flung it one night decades ago at the lakefront on July 4. All the boys in our group were like, "Sit DOWN, what are you DOING!?!" I've done some really shocking, scary things over the years, but I wouldn't call them dramatic per se.

13. Do you care about your weight?

I care, but it's clear that I don't care enough to deal with it responsibly.

14. Is your life moving too slowly or too fast?

It's really moving at a pretty reasonable speed right now. Parts could go faster. Parts could slow down some.

15. Do you prefer to stay in the shade?

Yes. I'm a pale-skinned, easily-burned person. And, metaphorically, yes.

16. If you could have any mural on your ceiling, what would it look like?

I wouldn't. These have always made me wonder about the people living in the house. Do you WANT people to be staring up while you're talking to them? Or do you expect people to be so bored that they need something to look at while they're visiting?

17. Do you enjoy the countryside?

heh ... Yeah, I do.

18. Are you a romantic?

Nope.

19. What is your favorite historic subject?

Early Church history, c. A.D. 30 to 200. I also like WW2 stuff, as mentioned above. And the Middle Ages. I just like history, can you tell?

20. Do you prefer landscape paintings?

Nope. I've always needed to have some people in the frame to interest me. I have memories of ENDLESS slide shows of landscapes/scenery as a child. "Didn't you take any pictures of PEOPLE, Dad???"

21. Are you interested in social issues?

Uh, yeah. You could probably say that. Those (few) of you on my Facebook feed are probably rolling your eyes and going, "Nonstop, man, nonstop."

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
Start Me Up (1981)
... because Kwizgiver recommended The Rolling Stones
Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) That's a goat wearing a high heel [on the cover]. What's on your feet as you answer these questions?

Skin. Nails. Nail polish. Calluses. I'm not even doing a toe ring this summer!

2) More fashion: In the video for this song, Mick is wearing white pants with an elastic waistband. Are you wearing a belt as you answer these questions?

Nope, I'm rocking the elastic waistband myself, in shorts.

3) In this song, Mick pleads, "Don't make a grown man cry." When is the last time you shed a tear?

This week. One of my favorite patrons got himself arrested Wednesday; he's still in the county hoosegow as I write this. :'(  He's the same (approx) age as my son, and his nickname among staff is Lucky Charms--he's adorable and leprechaun-looking, and obviously comes from a giant train-wreck of a family... sigh.

4) Keith Richard has said this is a song he could play "forever and ever." What in your life doesn't get old, no matter how often you do it?

Listening to baby giggles (or, really, any giggles) and good food are the two things that came to mind first.

5) While The Rolling Stones enjoy performing songs, like this one, from Tattoo You, Mick Jagger has dismissed the songs from their 1967 album Their Satanic Majesties Request as "rubbish." Do you have a favorite Rolling Stones song?

I really can't stand the Rolling Stones, but I do like "Honky Tonk Women," though mostly because it doesn't sound like them.

6) This recording of "Start Me Up" features a cowbell. Do you remember which Saturday Night Live host made, "More cowbell!" a catchphrase?

Yes I do. And I remember the skit all too well. I'm not a huge fan of Will, but he has his moments.

7) Bassist Bill Wyman once said he thought he should have been a archivist because he loved to make lists. Do you have a to-do list?

I've stopped writing them down because the list is so freakin' long it depresses me. Today's (mental) list includes figuring out where all of us (two nephews, a niece and her family, Beast, me, the nephews' dad and maybe Sparky) are meeting for brunch tomorrow, doing a trip to Aldi's/Walgreens/post office today for various things (they're all in the same general area in town), and finishing laundry. Guess I should consider making dinner too... and putting away the dishes in the dishwasher. Somehow, I suspect Bill's lists are far more interesting than mine.

8) Mick finds it hard to stand still when he sings, not only on stage but also in the studio. The engineer for this song reports that Mick would have to run across the room to get back to the microphone for his vocal. Are you more fidgety, or still?

This explains why Mick weighs 38 lbs. in this video, and probably IRL today. I'm generally a sit-still person. All those admonitions from my mom to be so have sunk in.

9) Random question: Do you believe men are inherently more sensible than women?

Ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha..... No. And for sure not in my gene pool. The men in my family--those with whom I share a bloodline--are ALL very much goofballs.

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
I'm a Yankee Doodle Dandy (1942)
From the archives

1) This week's song was performed by James Cagney in the famous movie of the same name. Do you plan on going to the movies this holiday weekend?

Nope. There's nothing on I want to see. We've hit the midsummer drought of Anything With a Brain.

2) Though known for his larger-than-life screen presence, Cagney was only 5'5". How tall are you?

At my tallest, I was 5'8". I've shrunk some in the intervening decades, at least in height.

3) During the Revolutionary War, General Washington celebrated the 4th of July by giving his troops a double ration of rum. Will you imbibe any spirits this holiday weekend?

This is unlikely. Beast already partook last week, leading up to yet another fall (second this week) and yet another ambo ride to ER where they pronounced him uninjured and drunk. But only kinda drunk, not blotto and blacked out. So yay for that. {that's sarcasm font}

4) American history was one of Crazy Sam's best subjects in school. Science was her worst. In which class did you earn your worst grades?

Gym.

5) The Fourth of July means we're in the middle of summer. Are you careful about applying sunscreen?

In the rare event that I know I'm going to be outside for awhile, I try to remember, but I'm so rarely outside that it's not much of an issue.

6) Mosquito bites can be a major summer annoyance. Are you scratching any itches right now?

Nope. See #4. (although I haven't noticed them being a problem yet around here, so maybe we just haven't hit the hatching period yet)

7) Emergency rooms report an increase in wrist injuries in summer, with people falling off bikes and skateboards and jamming their wrists catching hard-hit softballs. Have you recently been to the ER or Urgent Care?

Oops, jumped the gun in my answer to #3. Yeah, Friday night (technically, Sat. early a.m.). And last month. And sometime in March (?), and.... I practically know all the staff by name.

8) New York is home to Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest every year on the 4th. Will hot dogs be consumed in your household this weekend?

I don't think so. I don't have any in the house that I know of.

9) Atlanta hosts a 10K Peachtree Road Race every 4th of July. Are you a runner?

No. I doubt I could run to the end of our driveway without dropping to the ground. I used to love to run, but that was in a place of low humidity and I was fit.

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
The Chicago Crazy Questions

1) What was your dream growing up?

I don't remember really having "plans" or hopes for specific adult things aside from not having to answer to people (ha ha ha -- what a joke!). I do remember a couple of really weird, scary literal dreams, though.

2) What talent do you wish you had?

I wish I had more sticktuitiveness. I do think some people are innately better at seeing things through.

3) If I bought you a drink what would it be?

Long Island Iced Tea. Or Stoli rocks, lime twist.

4) What was the last book you read?

The last one I finished was Atlas Obscura. If you're an armchair adventurer, I recommend it.

5) Worst Habit?

Laziness.

6) If you saw me walking down the street would you offer me a ride?

If I saw you, Bud, I would. However, I generally don't stop for people walking.

7) What is your favorite sport?

To watch: football. To play: uh.... bocce?

8) What would you do if you were stuck in an elevator with me?

Call for help and then try not to think about whether I have to pee.

9) Worst thing to ever happen to you?

I try not to dwell on the tragedies of life. What I consider "worst" might be other people's pretty good days.

10) Tell me one weird fact about you.

I think if you read my blog, you will (or have) become abundantly aware of just how weird I am.

11) What if I showed up at your house unexpectedly?

I would be mortified if someone showed up today. The place is a pit, a sty, and I just can't keep up. But, I'd welcome you in and clear a place for you to sit a spell.

12) If you could change one thing about how you look, what would it be?

I would LOVE to be half my weight, literally. I have now achieved double my weight in my 20s. :'(

13) Would you be my crime partner or my conscience?

Depends on what we're doing, but I'm more likely to be the chicken-shit overly-conscientious one.

14) Ever been arrested?

Nope. Just a couple of traffic tickets.

15) If you won $10,000 today, what would you do with it?

Pay down the mortgage.

16) Favorite thing to do in your spare time?

This. And read.

17) Biggest pet peeve?

Mean, nasty people.

18) In one word, how would you describe yourself?

Empathetic.

19) Do you believe in/appreciate romance?

Meh.

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
The Cannon Fodder Questions

1. Is there someone you'd like to be kissing right now?

I actually did just kiss Beast before I sat down. He's having a crabby day, and as I type this he's taking his next round of mega-painkillers. That should help, but it also means he'll probably be asleep in half an hour or so.

2. When you're being extremely quiet, what does it mean?

It either means I'm concentrating on something or I'm really fucking pissed at you. Or I'm asleep.

3. What are you listening to right now?

The TV is on--Men Turning Left in Texas--so I hear car engines and the guys talking. The front door is open so I also hear birds and random people noise from outside. And I'm doing laundry, so the ejector pump just came on.

4. Are you a big fan of thunderstorms?

I am not afraid of thunder. I'm not a fan of lightning, however.

5. Do you believe in perfect?

Not in this world, nope.

6. Are you a jealous person?

Heh. No.

7. What was the first thing you thought this morning?

"Ugh. How many times can I hit 'snooze'?" Pretty much the same every day.

8. What do you think about when you are falling asleep?

As little as possible. I focus on breathing--a CPAP helps with that--and if I can't shut my brain off, I sing "99 Bottles of Beer on the Wall" in my head.

9. Are you satisfied with what you have in life?

Yes.

10. Do people ever think that you're either older or younger than you actually are?

I have no idea. My hair color indicates my age pretty accurately however: dark brown turning gray.

11. Do you think men truly understand women?

I'm not even convinced this is a thing, but see question #2. I think it's just that men aren't really conditioned or expected to try to understand others.

12. How about women understanding men?

I think for the most part, yeah, we girls have got your number, guys. Of course, we're also often self-delusional about you-all.

13. Did anybody ever call you handsome or beautiful?

Ha ha ha ha ha.

14. What is one fact about the last person that called you?

The last person who called me is one of those people who will be late to her own funeral.

15. Other than your current one, tell us about the longest relationship you have had either a romance or a particular good friend.

I have friends from, literally, 45 years ago. What do you want to know about them? I know quite a lot of dirt, especially on one of the two people I'm thinking of.

The Sassy Questions

1. If you could say anything you wanted to say to Donald Trump, what would you say?

Words would fail to express my thoughts to him accurately, or appropriately. Can I just throw up on his (not-made-in-America) ugly-ass tie?

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

That's an interesting question. I think Britney would, these days, be a lot calmer to hang out with. I've never really cared for Lindsay, even before she went off the deep end.

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

There's not a lot of stuff I can think of that only lasts a day. Maybe going up in a private jet and flying around in 100% cushiness?

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

There are some hymns at church that remind me of specific people every time I hear them. "A Mighty Fortress is Our God" is one of them. "Morning Has Broken" is another. The Bach organ toccata that is often used in old horror flicks is on my list too, though not because of movies.

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

Body. If "perfect" means no breaking, no illness, and no pain, I'm in!

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

More and more my answer is "not in this country." I've seriously considered looking for a job in England. It's just that a) I'm too lazy to do that, and b) public libraries there are in even worse shape than here.

7. What is your biggest regret in life?

Not learning to fly a plane.

8. If you could go back and visit one person in your life who is now dead, and ask one question, what would that question be and why would you ask it?

I'd love to spend some quality time with all three of the grandparents who were alive when I was born. They all died within the next 10-11 years and I have almost no real memories of them at all.

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

I'm okay with the way time works. I'm too tired right now to think about aging backwards.

10. What will the epitaph on your headstone say?

Funny you should ask. I told Beast this morning--after he read a headline in overnight news to me--that I want "I HATE PEOPLE!" on my tombstone. I've been saying it almost non-stop since January 20.

Saturday 9 x 2

(Link in meme-roll)
Too Fat Polka (1947)
Unfamiliar with this week's song? Hear it here.

1) Have you ever danced the polka?

Yes I have! It's a thing at most WI weddings, and we've been to a few of those.

2) The centerpiece of a traditional Polish polka band is the accordion. The accordion is a substantial instrument. Have you ever tried to play it?

Nope. It has never held even the slightest attraction for me.

3) The plump lady of this song cannot fit into the singer's car. How many passengers does your car comfortably seat?

There are 5 seatbelts. I think all five people would be ok for a medium-length ride.

4) Would you like to lose a few pounds?

Of course. More than a few too (as I sit here eating brownies for breakfast).

5) In the long ago 1940s, this song was considered amusing. Do you think it's still funny today?

Not even slightly. I actually had to turn it off before it even got halfway through.

6) Arthur Godfrey, who recorded this song, was a popular radio and TV host from the 1930s to the 1970s. Before this week's Saturday 9, had you ever heard of him?

Yes, of course. People used to think my dad looked like him back in the day. [no, he didn't, but they both had red hair....entirely different shades of red, but people are kinda dumb] I used to like him. His rating rather slipped with this song, however. Ugh.

7) One of his more popular radio shows was Talent Scouts. A 1940s-50s version of American Idol, this show gave previously unknown singers their first national exposure. Godfrey could point with pride to having helped discover Tony Bennett and Patsy Cline, but he made a mistake by rejecting Elvis Presley. Tell us about something you'd do differently if you could get a "do over."

... Look, I'm 53. I have a kid, and a husband. I have friends and family and a job. There isn't one single part of my life that doesn't cry for do-overs, sometimes daily. SO MANY places I could have made better decisions!

8) In 1953, Godfrey made news by having one of the nation's very first hip replacements. Have you ever been/would you be part of a clinical trial, either for a new drug or a new medical procedure?

I would if it meant the chance to extend my life or decrease pain. I'm beginning to think I should research some trials on back/neck/shoulder surgery for Beast. He is really in rough shape.

9) RANDOM QUESTION: You and a friend are shopping. She tries on an expensive sweater and enthusiastically asks what you think. You think it looks awful. Do you tell her the truth?

Yes. Though I might hedge it by saying it doesn't look well-made or it's too pricey or something. Unless she asked specifically, "How do I look, really?" I can't lie that baldly.

Work from Home (2016)
Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) This song is about a woman who doesn't get to see her lover often enough because he's on the night shift. Have you ever worked nights?

Not over-nights, no. When I started at my current workplace, I worked 6-9 three nights a week, which gave Beast and me about 15 minutes crossover, at most, from his return from work and my departure. Then, when he started to commute by train for 3 hours a day (round-trip), it was a "trade the kid at the train station" period, and he'd be asleep when I got home at 9:15. I also worked occasional Sundays and alternate Saturdays during this time so it was a little dicey seeing each other.

2) She promises that if he takes the day off, she'll make it feel like a vacation. Have you traveled anywhere fun so far this year? Do you have any leisure trips planned for 2017?3) The ladies of Fifth Harmony are enthusiastic supporters of the Girl Scouts, rewarding troops who excel in fundraising activities with free concerts. The Scouts' best-known fundraiser is their cookie sale. What's your favorite cookie (Girl Scout or otherwise)?

I love the Samoas. And I really like the vanilla Oreos (or knockoffs).

4) Fifth Harmony also participated in Goodwill's Fall Haul campaign. They encouraged high school students donate as many items as possible to Goodwill, and the winning school got a free concert. When did you last take gently-used items to a resale organization?

I took a carton and some bags of old clothes to a local place last fall, and then went shopping since it turned out to be half-price day. They give a coupon to everyone who donates, so I really hit the jackpot.

5) Do you ever shop second-hand or thrift stores?

More and more. I need to get some new spring/summer tops.

6) Fifth Harmony member Normani Kordei competes on Dancing with the Stars this season. Would you do better on DWTS or The Voice? In other words, are you a better singer or dancer?

I have never had a single dance lesson, but I have sung in choirs and elsewhere, so I'd probably do better on latter show. But I would never do either!

7) In February 2016, when this song was first released, The Denver Broncos won the Super Bowl and Spotlight won the Best Picture Oscar. Can you recall who won the 2017 Super Bowl and Best Picture Oscar, just two months ago?

Stupid Pats, and NOT La-La Land. :)

8) 2016's most popular TV show was Game of Thrones. Are you a fan?

Nope. Not even of the books. Epic fantasy is not my thing at all!

9) RANDOM QUESTION: What's the subject line of the newest message in your email spam folder?

I have an interesting mix of church-related (not MY church though) stuff and shopping stuff and a pen!s-enlargement ad. The top tagline is "Coming Soon to an Indie Theater Near You" though, which is extremely random. I literally NEVER check anything here, unless I'm bored and looking for a giggle.

I also keep a folder of stuff that came to be instead of someone else. I have that kind of an email, that people screw up regularly. The most recent one there is tagged "Confirmed singers for Gig on 3/23" (discussion about a music service at church--not mine--including this priceless part, cut/pasted: "ladies, long floor link black gowns, stockings, or Knee high's, closed in shoes with pearls"). THAT is mighty specific!

Friday 5

(Link in meme-roll)
Shiver Me Timbers

1. When did you last make what could be described as a wriggling motion?

   With my whole body, that was probably snuggling deep under the covers last night. I wriggled my fingers just before starting typing though. Kind of a habit to pop the finger joints.

2. What never fails to give you the willies?

   This week? Anything to do with our federal leadership, specifically directly around DJT.

3. What’s something you’ve seen on TV or in a movie that made you squirm?

   If y'all remember that scene in "Poltergeist" where the meat on the counter erupts int maggoty movement? Yeah, that one. I'm sure there've been others, but that one still makes me nauseous in memory.

4. What’s something in your life that could be described as serpentine?

   Hmm. I'm drawing a bit of a blank here. All I can picture is Michael Hutchence dancing. That's not really "in" my life, but it's definitely in my memory. Otherwise, all I'm coming up with is some regularly-traveled childhood roads in the mountains of Colorado.

5. Where can you get a really great shake?

   Oberweis, but they've closed. DQ, but they close 'round here over the winter. So, Culvers it is. If were willing to travel a bit, though, KOPPS! To, quite literally, die for. And the butter burgers, too.

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
O, Holy Night (1967)
Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) This beloved carol takes its lyrics from a French poem. What else can we thank the French for?

My understanding is that they were somewhat helpful during our Revolutionary War. I'm not much of a Francophile so I can't really think of much else. I don't like their food, or their people. Or much else. I would like to see Versailles someday, though.

2) How well do you know "O, Holy Night?" Without looking up the lyrics, could you sing along with Ella?

Yup. I could. It's one of my favorites to listen to, but I would never try to sing it. You need a stupendous voice, which I don't have.

3) In order to get this record into stores in time for Christmas 1967, Ella had to record this in late July. So let's reverse that. Now that it's Christmastime, what do you miss most about summer?

HEAT! Though, not missing it tremendously yet. It really only got cold in the last couple of weeks.

4) Sam is crazy about the open toed pumps she'll be wearing to holiday parties, but that means she needs to get a pedi. Will you be at a salon between now and year-end?

Nope. I don't pedi between mid-October until mid-April.

5) Will you be consuming any egg nog this holiday season? And if you do, will it be spiked?

I have some in the fridge, but I doubt I'll be spiking it. I actually prefer it plain.

6) Thinking of holiday cuisine, what's your favorite Christmas cookie?

I like 7-Layer Bars and home-made fudge.

7) Sam knows she will get a bottle of red wine from her boss, because that's what he gives his staff every year. Is there a gift you can count on receiving?

Beast received his booze from a former client yesterday. The bottle is empty. I was at work all day. I just posted on Facebook that it's just a shitty idea to send people booze. Give 'em a free meal at a nice restaurant instead. No one needs booze. Me, I'd better get my Sour Patch Kids in my stocking.

8) What one gift would you most like to receive this year? Do you think anyone will get it for you?

The outlook is distinctly not good for getting what I really want this year. It looked far more likely last Wednesday.

9) This time of year is big for charitable fundraising. Here's your chance to plug a cause or organization that's near and dear to you.

Just help someone besides yourself. That's all I ask.

Aesthetics??

(Found God-knows-where on the internet...)
rules: tag 20 followers you want to get to know better
so I'm already breaking the rules: if you want to use this, feel free; just link back

Name/nickname:

Cat.

Height:

I used to be about 176 cm but I'm pretty sure I'm shrinking so, let's call it 175 these days.

Hogwarts house:

According to my results a few years ago, I'm Hufflepuff. Which suits me--I don't want to be any of the others.

Favorite color:

Blue

Time:

4:46 p.m.

Last things I Googled:

"[state] license plates gh"

Fictional character you’d like as a sibling:

Laura Ingalls for sure when I was a kid. Will Riker would be a fun brother, no?

Number of blankets I sleep with:

Just the bedspread. That might be changing fairly soon, however.

Favorite band:

I have so many. Let's go with Billy Joel today.

Dream vacation:

Cruise around the world, first class all the way, with an unlimited budget.

When did I make this blog:

May 2004 ... yikes

How many blogs do I follow:

I've got 150+ RSS feeds that range from blogs to newspaper headlines to email lists.

What do I post about:

Here, it's all the memes. I have a few other blogs dedicated to different aspects of my life. This one and the books list get the most play by far.

Do you get asks on a regular basis:

What's an "ask"? Apparently I don't get any!

Aesthetics:

Clean, clutter-free, wood and leather, simplicity.

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
Hotel California (1977)
... Because Country Dew suggested it. Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) Composer Don Henley says this song is about the "journey from innocence to experience." Where do find yourself on that journey? Are you more innocent, or experienced?

I'm not innocent, though most of what I know hasn't been from experiencing it myself but from watching, reading, or hearing about it.

2) The lyrics refers to the "warm smell of colitas." Do you know what it is that the Eagles noticed in the air?

I remember having no clue WTF they were saying at this point in the song until at some point I found the song lyrics and looked up "colitas" in the dictionary. Having never seen them, I have no idea what the scent is, still.

3) The girl in the song had her head turned by luxury, including jewelry from Tiffany's and Mercedes Benz autos. Do you consider yourself materialistic?

Not as bad as many, but still I have my "stuff" that is hard to walk away from.

4) This recording has been lauded by music publications for for its long guitar solo. Are you good on the guitar?

Hah! I played for, oh, maybe 4 hours over the course of 3 years in my teens. I listen to guitar pretty well though.... :)

5) There's an error in the lyrics and Don Henley can get a bit testy when interviewers bring it to his attention. Here's the lyric: "So I called up the captain and said, 'Please bring me your wine.' He said, 'We haven't had that spirit here since 1969.'" Do you know what's wrong with it?

I'd guess it's that wine isn't a spirit, because only liquor is spirits. Something to do with distillation. But jeez that is fussy. I never noticed it before. 

6) Known as the Eagles' drummer, Henley now spends less time at his drum kit. Sitting at that angle for an extended period of time hurts his back. Sam believes this proves all those warnings she heard from her parents about good posture are true. Do you pay attention to your posture?

I do. I try to walk like I was taught to march in Band: shoulders straight ("back") and stomach tight with a round, open chest. My dad didn't countenance slouching: "Be PROUD of your height!!" All us girls were tall and he hated tall girls who tried to make themselves shorter. However, most of the time when I'm sitting I'm slouching, and modern technology does nothing but encourage shoulders-forward sitting. Be honest: where are your shoulders when you're typing on a keyboard? My massage therapist yells at me regularly, and now I try to even SLEEP with my shoulders back!

7) Joe Walsh is considered the wild man of the Eagles. Think of your circle of friends. Who is the most unpredictable?

...I think that might be me. Or Beast, but to be fair, that's mostly his addiction being crazy not him. When he's straight, he's perfectly predictable. And that's frankly why I married him!! Among my workplace friends, it's definite Librarian B.

8) In 1977, Star Wars premiered. How many Star Wars movies have you seen?

All. Of. Them. Multiple. Times. Beast is a bit of a fan. /sarcasm

9) Random question: "Nosocomephobia" is the fear of hospitals. Are you nosocomephobic?

Nope. Actually, this is weird: I was visiting a friend in the hospital just before I started this. I've hung out in hospitals since before I can remember because my sister was so ill when I was a tot. While I was too young to visit her on the floor very often, I hung out in public areas a lot, I'm sure, and I was a candy-striper in junior high/high school so I got to see behind the scenes a little. And then my dad ended up in that same hospital after his second heart attack when my mom was out of town and I was in high school, so it paid off knowing how things worked. Nah, hospitals don't scare me, except when the bill comes...

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
Meal Skipper Meme

1. Do you skip meals sometimes?

Probably not nearly as often as I ought to. I find myself eating because it's "lunchtime" or whatever and realizing that I'm not even actually hungry.

2. Last time you overate?

At least a week. There hasn't been a lot of time for big meals this week.

3. Do you like Mexican food?

I love it!

4. Do you like Chinese food?

Yes, some.

5. Do you like Italian food?

OMG, YES!

6. Do you like American food?

Uh, yeah.

7. Have you ever been on a diet?

Too many times.

8. Do you like vegetables?

Yes.

9. On a scale from 1 to 5 how much do you eat a day (1= not eating, 5= eating 3 meals)?

5. Actually more like 5+.

b>10. Do you think you eat healthily?

Not as well as I could, certainly.

11. Do you think you are ugly?

Well, I don't scare children or animals....

12. Do you like your hair?

I have good hair.

13. Do you like the way you look?

I'd like to be approx 20 again and a little more clued in to what works for me in terms of clothes and hair.

14. Would you want to change anything?

Now? Yes. Will I? I can certainly try harder.

15. Do you ever wear a lucky color?

I don't really have a lucky color. I have some "magical" clothing though, for instance my Reggie White Packers jersey.

16. Do you care how other people see you?

Well, again, I don't really want to scare anyone, but in the main I'm invisible to the majority of people these days and that's fine.

17. Do you or have you ever worn braces?

Yup. Two years of hell in junior high.

18. Do you wear glasses and/or contacts?

I'm effectively blind without my glasses. Tried contacts in college--and that led to me developing a giant panoply of heath issues. Plus, they were fussy and mostly annoying.

19. Do you want to gain weight, lose weight, or stay about the same?

I need to lose weight. Actually, what I need to do is cut back on sugar; if I did that, I'd lose weight too.

20. What do you do if you have the flu?

Drink water, sleep as much as I can, and probably mope around the house feeling lousy.

21. How many tries to get your driver's license?

Got it on the first try.

22. Are you saving up for anything in the future?

Does retirement count?

23. Do you have a lot of spare time?

More than I've earned for sure.

24. Do you consider yourself a responsible person?

Yes. Except when I'm really notat all, which is rare. It's like a little seizure when I act irresponsibly: out of control and (fortunately) pretty rare.

25. Do you consider yourself a lazy person?

HELL yess!!

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
What Hurts the Most (2006)
Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) What hurts Sam the most is her sole, since she just found that earring she thought was lost by stepping on it with her bare foot. How about you? Any aches and pains to report?

I have a couple of weird bruises on my feet, noticed this morning. I know where they came from--one's from a badly-placed toe-ring, the other is from 'falling off' my (flat) sandals yesterday--but they are in truly weird places. Also, I've got a headache. Probably allergies, but I seem to have developed a minor cold so it could be that as well. Otherwise, and compared to Beast, my health is rosy.

2) What's the last thing you misplaced? Did you find it?

I'm pretty sure my brain fell out somewhere yesterday afternoon. The jury's still out on whether it's back or not. I can't think of anything major I've misplaced recently, though. Oh, we still have no idea where my file for my birth certificates is. Or if we even have any. I need to contact Vital Stats in Colorado and order some more.

3) Lead singer Gary LeVox sings that he's not afraid to cry. When is the last time you shed a tear?

I've been yawning so hard the last week--probably allergy-related--that my eyes water in defense, so there's that. Otherwise...I'm not sure. I didn't cry at meeting last night, which is rare. I'm sure there were tears at some point earlier in the week; it's rare for me to go a week without crying about something.

4) Gary auditioned for another country group, Little Big Town, but didn't get in. Considering how successful Rascal Flatts has been, he's probably not sorry. Tell us about something you thought you wanted, but later weren't so sure.

I can't think of anything major. There's always a small sense of 'buyer's remorse' at some point after achieving or getting something. I mean, how many parents haven't wondered why in the hell they reproduced at certain moments of their child's life? Or why we wanted a pet after having to clean up the 53rd mess today? Or that outfit that fell apart the first time you wore it?

5) The country group has their roots in Columbus, Ohio. What else is Ohio known for?

The Rock n Roll Hall of Fame! (and the hospital where Baby Beastie made his appearance)

6) Lead guitarist Joe Don Rooney married model and former Miss Georgia, Tiffany Fallon. Many major pageants give prizes in the talent, congeniality and swimsuit competitions. Would you prefer to have exceptional skills, a great personality, or a terrific body?

All in all, I'd rather have a nap.

7) 2006, the year this song was popular, was a very good one for tennis pro Roger Federer. He reached the finals in all four Grand Slam tournaments, and won three. What's the last game you won? (Yes, Words with Friends counts.)

I won a trivia challenge last night (similar to WWF). Otherwise, I don't tend to play win-lose games anymore because I'm a really bad loser.

8) Actor Tony Shalhoub won an Emmy in 2006 for his portrayal of detective Adrian Monk on Monk. Who's your favorite TV detective?

Gil Grissom holds a very special place in my heart, though he's not technically a detective. So the backup is Olivia Benson, who is my hero.

9) Random question ... You've just won an all-expenses-paid trip but now you have to choose: Carnivale in Brazil, the Bordeaux Wine Festival in France, or the Running of the Bulls in Spain?

I'm not going to a wine festival unless I go there without Beast. The other two I would only be involved in if I had a great hotel room overlooking the festivities; I have no interest in participating in either.

Saturday 9 x 2

(Link in meme-roll)
See You Later, Alligator (1956)
Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear ithere.

1) Crazy Sam's mother is terrified of alligators. Just looking at a photo of one of those scaly reptiles gives her the creeps. Is there a member of the animal kingdom that scares you?

I'm not a huge fan of bugs bigger than my hand. I'm fine with regular-sized Midwestern USA critters, but I draw the line at anything I can't cover with one smack.

Also, earwigs. ...shudder...

2) Gators are carnivores, but they aren't picky. If meat isn't handy, they'll munch on fruit. Are you particular about your diet? For example, do you try to eat gluten free, low sodium, etc.?

Nope. I'm trying to cut back on sugar, but not having universal success.

3) In Spain, this song was a hit under the title, "Hasta Luego, Cocodrilo." Say something else in Spanish.

¿Cómo se dice "I don't want to" en español?" Tengo un grado menor de la universidad en español, pero es sobre todo en la literatura española y no tanto hablar. Mi sobrina británica y su marido viven en España, pero yo creo que van a venir de nuevo a Inglaterra este año con sus bebés gemelas.

4) When this week's artist, Bill Haley, was a little boy, he made a guitar out of cardboard and pretended to play that until his parents got him a real one. Tell us about something you wantedso badly when you were a kid.

I was 12 when I finally got my first bicycle. I'd wanted one for, literally, 5 years at least.

5) Early in his career, Bill did whatever it took to get the gig. When singing cowboys were popular, the Michigan native pretended to be a cowpoke and renamed himself, "Silver Yodeling Bill." Have you ever fudged on your resume or fibbed in an interview?

I've certainly been interviewed for jobs I was eminently unqualified for, if that counts.

6) When his career was going well, Bill was generous and loved to give extravagant parties at his home, which he called Melody Manor. Do you enjoy playing the host?

I do.

7) Bill was blind in one eye, the result of a botched operation when he was a child. Since the blind eye wandered and didn't focus, he always wore a curl over the opposite eye, hoping to draw everyone's attention to the other side of his face. What is there about your appearance that leaves you self conscious?

I used to be very skinny as a kid. That has swung to the opposite at this point in my life--I'm embarrassed about how much my stomach sticks out.

8) On the other hand, what is it about your appearance that pleases you, and that you would never change?

I love my nose, even though it's big, and my hair.

9) In 1956, when this song was a hit, Elvis Presley exploded onto the music scene and displaced Bill as rock's top artist. The press and public assumed Bill was jealous of Elvis, but in reality he liked Elvis a great deal. Are you jealous by nature?

Nope.

Kiss from a Rose (1996)
Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear ithere.

1) This song is from the movie, Batman Forever. The movie Batman v. Superman will be out later this month. In that matchup, who do you support -- The Caped Crusader or The Man of Steel?

I'm fairly agnostic about the situation.

2) "Rose" became a popular name in the 19th century, when parents also began naming their daughters "Iris," "Violet," "Daisy" and "Lily." Do you know anyone who has a flower name?

My niece, mentioned above, is named a variation of this very name. It's a lovely name, and totally doesn't fit her, even at 30+. As a young teen she tried going with "Roz" which is better, but it didn't stick. Her sister has a middle name based on another name for "Daisy", named for her (other side of family) grandmother. I know a couple of other "Rosies" and it sees like I might know a "Lily" or something similar, but I'm drawing a blank.

3) This week's artist, Seal, has something to fall back on. At his parents' insistence, before he pursued music he got an associate degree in architecture from a small college in Westminster. What's the last grade you completed?

I have a Master's Degree: MLIS.

4) Seal wrote this song back in the 1980s but didn't really like it very much. His producer discovered it when they were looking for material to complete Seal's second album and the result was several Grammys. Tell us about a time when something turned out better than you thought it would.

Raising our son. He's become quite an awesome young man.

5) Ex-wife Heidi Klum is not the only model in Seal's life. He also dated Tyra Banks. Can you name another famous model?

Naomi Campbell. Lauren Hutton. Mark Wahlberg.

6) Seal is currently involved with yet another model, Australian Erica Packer. Between them they have seven children. How many siblings do you have, and are you the oldest, youngest, or in the middle?

I'm the youngest of 5.

7) Seal's birthday was back on February 19. Let's think about your birthday. If you could have any type of cake you wanted, what would you request?

Traditional wedding cake with homemade buttercream frosting and a lot of it!

8) In 1996, when this song was popular, Lyle and Erik Menendez were found guilty of murdering their parents in a crime and trial that dominated the news in Los Angeles. What are people in your town talking about?

Home rule. We're about 600 people short at our last census so the city is doing another one next month to see if we've crossed the threshold.

9) Random question: There's an old saying, "Like nails on a blackboard." Sam can't recall ever hearing nails on a blackboard, but she knows she hates the sound of a dripping faucet. What sound bothers you the most?

Oh, nails on a blackboard is bad! Chewing aluminum foil, though, is bad on so many different levels besides sound that it wins, hands-down.

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
Laundry Day Meme

Do you know any couples that have been married for a very long time?

Huh. Well. My parents, technically, have been married since 1941, but since they're both deceased... My oldest sister has been married since 1966. I know people who got married in the 1950s. I've been married since 1986.
Here's the takeaway, though: staying married means nothing if it's only because of inertia and fear. Having a years-long relationship is important, but it doesn't have to be a marriage. A good friendship is at least equally as important, someone who knows you when you were just starting to become You. THAT's important.

What are you tired of people telling you?

I'm tired of hearing "shut up!" from the universe at large, but that's because I keep not doing it. Actual, individual things I'm tired of involve the endless library/ian comments and the word, "Sorry." I'm really fucking tired of "Sorry." Don't apologize (again), just STOP DOING IT!

Which type of ice cream do you prefer?

My gut reaction was to say 'home-made' but I'll go with vanilla with my choice of toppings.

Do you have a little sister? What’s her name?

I am the little sister!! I do, however, have a couple of nieces less than 10 years younger than me who sort of fulfilled that purpose in my childhood. Lots of the same perks, less of the concurrent abhorrence. The oldest one turned 47 on Friday; the younger one turned 44 a couple of weeks ago.

What was the last movie you watched on TV?

It didn't make much of an impression as I don't honestly remember. I'm just awful at remembering movies....

If the internet was not available right now, what would you do instead?

What I should be doing even though the 'net is fine: READING! I've got two seriously overdue books that are nowhere near being finished.

Do you complain a lot?

More than I should, for sure.

Name a movie that your favorite actor is in.

At this point, if I said "Star Wars," that would include almost everyone (mostly white people) in Hollywood, wouldn't it? ;)

Do you like your toes?

My toes are awesome!!

Would you rather go to an authentic haunted house or an ancient temple?

Temple I suspect a haunted house would have a terminal case of dustiness, and that doesn't sound fun to me.

Have you ever had champagne? Did you like it?

Huh. The first time I got blackout-drunk with the vomits it was on cheap champagne (13 glasses in half an hour--dumbass). Ruined the cheap stuff forever. I do like a good Dom, but it has to be pricey. It's really the only thing I'm fussy about in terms of taste.

Are there any seashells in your room?

There are!

What was the reason for the last time you went outside?

I was checking to see what Beast was doing that involved thumping and banging near the front porch. The answer: breaking up ice.

Do you like fruity or minty gum?

Minty is preferred.

Are you looking forward to any day of this month?

Tuesday is Groundhog Day, which is a BFD around here. Wednesday is Sparky's birthday. Valentine's Day is approaching. I don't know if I'm really "looking forward" to all of those, but they do mean that winter is closer to ending.

What was the last graduation you attended?

Sparky's, last May. Coldest freakin' day of the month, which was the exact opposite of Beast's and my graduation 30 years ago when it was the hottest freakin' day of the month.

Do you rummage through the $5 movie bin at Walmart every time?

Nope.

What day of the week do you usually do laundry?

Saturday. Though I've got a couple of loads going today to finish up yesterday's work.

Do you like using air fresheners?

I've had the same can in the powder room for 15 years. So, I don't go through much of it, no.

Are your nails ever painted red?

Sometimes. I think this summer is going to bring a whole new palette of colors. My nail polish is pretty old.

When you were a baby, did you have a favorite blanket?

Probably. It never turned into a 'thing' though.

Ever been on a cruise?

Nope. Well, dinner cruises a couple of times, but not real ones.

Would you rather go to Alaska or Russia?

Russia!! I would LOVE to visit St. Petersburg in the summer, and also Irkutsk.

Strawberries or bananas?

Depends on time and season and a lot of other things. Generally, strawberries, I guess.

Are you wearing socks?

Yes. It's winter in the Midwest, damper than blazes out there and my feet are ice blocks. 'Tis the season.

When’s the last time you went to the mall?

Good heavens. It's been a couple of years, I think!