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.

Sunday Stealing

January

Taken from League of Extraordinary Penpals 

1. What are your plans for January? 

I have no big plans. I need to do the annual guardianship report for the courts this week. I get installed as an elder in front of the (Zoom) congregation next Sunday. I am desultorily shopping for Sparky's birthday present.

2. What do you want to see happen in 2021? 

I would like to see Biden surprise me with being less of a centrist than he clearly is.

3. What would you give a 5 star rating? 

Medical professionals.

4. Do you have writing goals for 2021? 

Just this sort of thing. I'm de facto editor for Sparky's writing, so that, too.

5. How do you feel about memoirs? 

I think they are probably really therapeutic to write. Many don't need to be published, and fewer are useful for anyone else.

6. If you could join any musical group who would you choose? 

The Go-Gos. The Bangles. The Spice Girls. Basically, girl groups, preferably managed by women.

7. What are your favorite genres across all media? 

I like suspenseful reads and movies. Not gory, especially not movies, but well-written twisty stuff.

8. What candle scents are your favorite? 

"Clean" scents. I've got a STRONG vanilla one going right now.

9. How well can you mimic other accents or voices? 

I do it mostly unconsciously, and often.

10. What books are on your TBR list in 2021? 

I'm in a a Michael Connelly and Louise Penny phase right now, and I'm struggling to read anything very deep, so it's looking like a lot of pretty formulaic mysteries otherwise.

11. When do you decide it’s time to upgrade/buy something new? 

When whatever-it-is stops working right, or just gets very worn out, or holey.

12. Why is your favorite color your favorite color? 

Blue. Forever and always.

13. Who understands you the best? 

lol--no one
Maybe you-all?

14. Do you write letters? 

Not anymore. Occasional emails and lots of texts.

15. How do you keep going when times are hard?

Guilt over failing other people.

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
Danny Boy (1956)
"Danny Boy" was selected in honor of St. Patrick's Day. Unfamiliar with this week's song? Hear it here.

1) This is a sad song of farewell. Who is the last person you said "goodbye" or "so long" to?

Well, Beast earlier today when I left.

2) According to the 2000 Census, Massachusetts is the state with the largest percentage of residents of Irish descent. Have you ever been to The Bay State?

I have. I was absolutely STUNNED by the number of Dunkin Donuts outlets. Seems like there's one for each Irish family in the area!

3) "The wearing o' the green" is one way to celebrate St. Patrick's Day. Will you wear something green in honor of the day?

I am wearing a sort of tennis ball green shirt. I couldn't find anything properly green this morning when I got dressed. Besides, I went to the nursing home with two drive-thru fast-food stops on the way, so it's NBD.

4) What color makes you look best?

I've been told teal/turquoise is a good look for me.

5) Will you drink something green in honor of the day (like a Shamrock shake or a green beer)?

I don't drink green things ever. Yuck. I don't even like green tea that much.

6) A four-leaf clover is considered good luck. Do you have a lucky charm?

I don't really believe in lucky charms. I have some objects that make me feel happy when I'm around them: some earrings, some clothes, random rocks (I'm weird, ok) that sort of thing.

7) Though she's singing an Irish ballad, this week's featured artist, Joni James, is of Italian heritage. Can you think of a song as identified with Italy as "Danny Boy" is with Ireland?

Anything sung by Dean Martin, apparently, specifically "That's Amore." And "O Sole Mio."

8) Soda bread and potato bread are popular in Ireland. Are there any rolls or bread in your kitchen right now?

There's tortillas, bread and, bagels in the kitchen. I haven't had bagels in the house for weeks, which is totally weird for me. There's always bagels in my house!

9) Ireland is known for its whiskey. Do you enjoy Irish coffee (black coffee, whiskey and whipped cream)?

I don't like coffee, so...no. I'll take my whiskey straight, thanks.

Friday 5

(Link in meme-roll)
Korea Guidance

1. What would be a better name for the color of goldenrod-colored paper?

   How about just gold? That's what I call it.

2. Where did you get your silverware?

   I think I got it at an outlet store, or with coupons or something. I hated the stuff we started our marriage with. And we still have. Somewhere.

3. It is a weird tradition in America (and possibly elsewhere) for parents to have their children’s baby shoes bronzed. What artifact from this past week would you have bronzed as a keepsake and heirloom?

   Great timing for this: I spent the last week getting rid of stuff, either via taking stuff to resale shops or straight up garbaging it. My family never did the bronze shoes thing, and I don't really understand the concept of bronzing things. Seems like just one more thing to dust. So to answer the question: I'll just take the bronze and make some jewelry out of it.

4. What was the most recent ceremony you attended?

   I can't think of anything beyond worship at church or something like that. Unless visiting Beast has become something of a ritual at this point.

5. What east Asian cuisine is good for your Seoul?

   ...oh the PUNS! 😲 I live in Nowhere; we have Chinese. Within 45 minutes, I might be able to find Thai or Japanese, but I'm relatively certain Korean or Vietnamese is going to be a trek.

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
Heartbreak Hotel (1956)
Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) Elvis checked in to the hotel at the end of Lonely Street. Where was the last hotel or motel you stayed at?

It was last year, near a State Park where I spent a getaway weekend by myself. Irony Street.

2) He sings that Heartbreak Hotel is always crowded. The fear of crowds is so prevalent that it has four names (enochlophobia, ochlophobia, demophobia and agoraphobia). Are you comfortable in a crowd?

I'm rarely actively fearful in a crowd, but I don't like being in a mass of people just because people act weirder in a crowd than they do individually. I don't want to get mixed up in any of that negative, dangerous weirdness. Plus, I just hate waiting (I'm so American), and where there are crowds there are lines.

3) The desk clerk at Heartbreak Hotel is dressed black. Do you often wear all black?

Often enough, though that is mostly by accident. I just have a lot of dark-colored clothes, especially in the winter. My new coat, though, is bright blue. I love it.

4) The song was written by Mae Boren Axton, who said it was inspired by the story of an anonymous young man's suicide in a hotel. She said she read in The Miami Herald that the John Doe left behind a note that said, "I walk a lonely street." What's the last note you handwrote? (Hopefully it was more upbeat.)

I wrote some notes yesterday during my meeting with the facility director where Beast is living. I write notes every day. Most of them are to me, and end up in the recycling bin eventually.

5) When Elvis was 11, his parents bought him a guitar. He had asked for a rifle, but his mama convinced him a guitar was a better idea. Tell us about a time one of your parents was right about something.

My parents were, of course, as all parents are, usually right about the important stuff. My mom told me once she'd "never liked" one of my high school friends, and in some ways she was right. On the other hand, she thought another friend was wonderful, and he was my source for all things drug- and alcohol-related, so she wasn't quite on point (on fleek? I don't understand how this is supposed to work) on that one.

6) Not long before "Heartbreak Hotel" was recorded, Elvis' father recommended he give up the guitar and become a truck driver. Tell us about a time one of your parents was wrong about something.

Ooops, I jumped the gun there. I'll just say that I can't think of too many instances of my Dad being wrong; he stuck to the Big Advice, like loving people and trying hard to do right by them. This shouldn't be read that he was perfect by any means! He also injured himself badly in the eye during a safety meeting on his worksite when I was 10.

7) There are many stories about Elvis' manager, Col. Tom Parker. One anecdote, about his career before Elvis, has the Colonel painting sparrows yellow so he could sell them as canaries. Have you ever been ripped off?

Oh yeah, a few times over 54 years.

8) Speaking of birds, Elvis once owned a peacock. It damaged his cars, so he gave it to the Memphis Zoo. In earlier days, it might have been dinner, for peacock was considered a medieval delicacy. What's the last poultry you prepared?

I bought a barrel of KFC last weekend and ate it all week. The last time I cooked it? Months. Literally. I haven't cooked much in the last few months, except reheating things and/or making soup or spaghetti.

9) Random question: You and a friend have dinner at a restaurant. Your friend left her wallet at home, so you pick up the entire tab of $62, including tip. A few weeks later, you two meet for lunch and when the bill comes, she puts down half. Do you remind her that she still owes you $31 from the last time you dined together?

If she's a good friend, I'm pretty sure this discussion would have already happened, and the only comment I'd make now is raised eyebrows. In fact, I'd like to think that I'd put on my coat and wave bye, but I doubt I'd have the nerve. But we certainly would have separate checks if (big if there) we ever had a meal together henceforward.

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
Sign of the Times (2017)
... because Cat. [me!!] recommended Harry Styles [I did?]
Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here

1) In this song, Harry sings, "We don't talk enough, we should open up before it's all too much." When you have something serious on your mind, who do you share it with?

Beast, you-all here online, God.

2) As a kid, Harry wanted to be a lawyer because he can see "both sides." Are you good at seeing both sides of an argument?

Yes, to my own loss quite often.

3) He can't decide which is favorite color -- orange or blue. Help Harry out: which of those colors do you prefer?

What a combination ... especially around here, he'd be fine wearing both. I prefer blue. Orange is not a favorite.

4) Harry says he prefers older women, but would never go out with someone older than his mother. Do you think age disparity matters in romance?

Not once both parties are out of their teens. There's something decidedly skeevy about an adult dating a teen, by which I mean 10+ years age difference.

5) He admits to a big crush on Adele, who is six years older than he is. Who are you crushing on right now? (It doesn't have to be a celebrity.)

My heart belongs to Beast, but my eyes can't help but notice well-spoken guys of any age with a good sense of humor and lack of entitlement.

6) It makes Harry's skin crawl when he sees people use their teeth to open bottles. What creeps you out?

Butt cracks. I have seen far FAR too many of them at work. Doesn't matter the gender, the age, the relative cleanliness of the rest of the person, I do NOT need to see your but while you're using a library computer!!

7) When he's on the road, his go-to food is tacos. Do you like Mexican food?

I do. I actually really love real Mexican food. It's kind of one of my comfort foods.

8) Harry has never smoked. Have you ever been a smoker? If you quit, how did you successfully kick the habit?

Thank the Good Lord from keeping me away from this particular addiction! I don't remember anyone smoking that was in my life during those formative years when you're trying to impress people. My sister Ellen smoked, as did (does?) her husband, but otherwise I had a remarkably smoke-free adolescence. Unless you count those of my friends who smoked pot, of course....

9) Random Question: As she pulls out of her parking space, an elderly woman in an old car scrapes an expensive car. Then she drives away. You witness the whole thing. Do you make a note of her license plate and leave it for the owner of the expensive car? Or do you just mind your own business?

Hmm, that's a great ethical conundrum. In my town, it's quite likely that I know one or the other of these people, so that is going to color my decision a bit. Generally, though, I'm more likely to pretend I saw nothing. We have a pocket of horrible, entitled jerks living in the area; it's always nice to see them get theirs.

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
The Put Your Questions in the Box Questions

1. Where were you three hours ago?

Right here, trying to figure out my day. It's been a weird weekend of just feeling slightly ...off most of the time: headache, GI stuff, overheated (inside with A/C).

2. Make a confession.

I went to a memorial service for a former co-worker yesterday. I didn't speak to one of her sons because he caused her so much grief when she was alive that I just couldn't. Judging by his comments during the service, he hasn't really changed. I escaped afterwards ASAP, skipping the church luncheon, because I'm still very conflicted about the co-worker; she was a difficult person but also smart, kind in her own way, and a wonderful baker. And I was instrumental in getting her fired 5 years ago.

3. Bad habits?

Laziness is winning this race handily.

4. Favorite color?

Blue. Almost every shade of blue: robin's-egg, sky, navy, teal, midnight, turquoise, milky, denim. Bring on the blue! My top is in the lighter range (baby boy or pale sky), but I'm not overly fussy.

5. Can you drive?

Yes. I am the only person in the house doing that these days, so it's a good thing. Beast lost his license last fall, and he shouldn't be driving anyway as he can't actually feel or control his feet very well. Hence the advance to cane and now walker to get around. I live with an 90-year-old (he's actually 53).

6. 3 pet peeves.

Intentional stupidity.
People who are just mean-spirited and nasty toward others.
Humidity.

7. Last person you hugged.

Beast. Of course.

8. Something you miss.

I miss my dad right now.

9. What song is stuck in your head at the moment?

I seem to be song-free right now, which is fine. Something will come along. In fact, if I go read everyone's answers, I'll end up with one of those for sure.

10. Favorite quote.

"It is not your job to complete the task of perfecting the world, but neither are you free to desst from it." [Mishnah]

11. Favorite band.

Probably U2. It cycles.

12. Something you're excited for.

I had to take in a ring for repair and resetting a couple of weeks ago. It's ready--I should go get it. The payoff is even better due to the jeweler being next to Olive Garden, so we'll probably pick up some OGtogo.

13. Favorite movie.

Shoah

14. What type of phone do you have?

Samsung. It's about 3 years old now--but it still works so why change it? Works fine.

15. Favorite animal.

Wolf. Or if we need a specific entity, then Pintobean our cavy.

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
Along Alone Again, Naturally (1971)
Not familiar with this week's song? Hear it here.

1. Friday was St. Patrick's Day, March 17th! Did you celebrate with green beer or a green milkshake?

Hell no. I did have Irish Soda Bread, brought to work by a coworker. I don't add green to food that shouldn't have it, though.

2. Did you remember to wear green?

I did. Of course; too many childhood pinchings to dare to forget green on St. Pat's.

3. What color do you look best in?

I have a purple sweater that I got at a resale shop last fall that someone told me this week is a good shade for me. I try to avoid red, since I tend to have a bad case of red-face even without it. And I think I do OK with teal/turquoise.

4. This week's featured artist, Gilbert O'Sullivan, was born in Waterford, Ireland. Waterford is famous for Waterford Crystal. Do you have glassware that you save for special occasions?

We have two full (glass-front) cupboards full of glassware we basically never use: beer mugs, martini glasses, luncheon dishes. I just can't get rid of them.

5. This week's featured song includes the line, "To think that only yesterday I was cheerful, bright and gay." How were you feeling yesterday?

Yesterday was ok. I got a fair amount of work done, attended to some great tunes while reorganizing the worms and spiders sections of our Dewey books. (That was probably meaningless--Dewey has updated most of the animal sections, so I'm working through the 'corrections' in our books--someday maybe I'll fix the collection itself....)

6. It begins with reference to a wedding that didn't quite come off because the bride left the groom at the altar. When were you most recently at church? Was it for a holiday service, a regularly scheduled service, a special event (a wedding or baptism)?

I teach Sunday School, so I'm there every Sunday, including last week. I'll be there tomorrow as well. I'm the Donut Lady.

7. In 1971, when this song was popular, Malibu Barbie was a big seller for Mattel. This doll had a perpetual tan. For a human to achieve this, a tanning bed or self tanner is usually required. Have you used either method to give yourself a tan?

Nope. I've got that northern European white skin with freckles and when hit by sun it mostly just burns, peels, and goes back to white-with-maybe-two-more-freckles. I've probably given myself enough sun damage from tanning with baby oil as a teenager. I don't need more. Also, self-tanning (spray) is ORANGE! Ick.

8. In March, 1971, James Taylor appeared on the cover of TIME magazine. What's your favorite James Taylor song?

"You've Got a Friend"

9. Random Question: What word or phrase do you hear yourself saying too often?

"Actually" (ack-shul-lee) or "derp." I swear a lot too, though.

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
The Racquet Questions

01 What is the worst nickname that anyone has ever called you?

I haven't really ever had a good nickname. My parents deliberately chose names for all of us that are hard (or impossible) to shorten, and the only thing my mom ever called me besides my name was "Grace" when I tripped or something.

02 Have you got a favorite flower?

I like heirloom roses, fresh from the garden.

03 Do you add a sauce, ketchup or other artificial flavorings to your food?

Sometimes. Depends on what I'm eating. I use steak sauce sometimes. We don't go through a lot of ketchup, though.

04 Describe yourself using only words that begin with the letter 'T'.

Tall, tired, temperamental.

05 What is/was your lover's pet name for you?

Yeah, well, we'll be moving on...

06 What is your least favorite color?

Mustard yellow-brown.

07 Who did you vote for in the last election, and did they win?

I voted for HRC. Because I have, yknow, a flippin' brain in my head and no trust in my heart at all.

08 What is/was your grandfathers’ names?

One shared a name with a blue monster on Sesame Street, and the other was the Latinized version of Hitler's first name. Guess what: we didn't give Sparky EITHER of their names!

09 What is the best present you ever received?

Sparky of course.

10 What is 17 1/2% of 97 + 42 x (6 / 2) – 137 ? [Editor's note: Holy shit!]

5.975. You asked, right?

11 What would be the best possible way you could die?

In my sleep when I'm old but still compos mentis.

12 Given the choice of absolutely anything, what would be your dream job?

I love my current job. Really, I do. If I could travel more that would be the best.

13 What position do you sleep in at night?

Usually on my side, and I rarely move. Seriously, I usually roll over once only all night.

14 What is the most embarrassing thing that has ever happened to you?

Sooo ... many ... things. If embarrassment killed, I'd be so death so many times.

15 Who is your favorite fictional character?

Thursday Next.

16 What food do you hate most in the world?

Brussels sprouts.

17 When was the last time you were ill?

Knock wood, it's been awhile.

18 If you were transformed into a wild creature, what would it be?

I'd like to be a wolf. I'd probably end up as a cockroach. Or a dung beetle.

19 What was your favorite toy as a child, and whatever happened to it?

I don't remember one specific toy that lasted the whole childhood. My eldest niece got my Barbie doll and that pissed me off; I wasn't consulted. I still have my Raggedy Anne doll. Several stuffed animals have disappeared somewhere. And my jacks. And my jumpropes.

20 What's the most amazing thing you've ever seen?

I have been very fortunate to see a lot of pretty amazing things. Perhaps the best memory I have is looking at the stars while lying on my car outside our mountain cabin with my best friend. Pretty epic.

Blogthings

Your Christmas Color is Gold

You are chic, glamorous, and more than a little indulgent around the holidays. You believe this is [the] time to celebrate in style. You love the warmth and glow surrounding the holidays. For you, all of that begins with a spirit of generosity. You see Christmas as a time of richness - not monetary richness, but richness in gratitude, fellowship, and tradition. You don't mind going a little overboard for the holidays. Your celebrations may be lavish, but they are never exclusive.

What's Your Christmas Color?

I'm so NOT AT ALL chic or glamorous or even lavish, at least I would never call myself that. But my holidays are not exclusive--I'm always inviting people to "just come over!"--and I do totally believe that generosity goes a long way in life, especially this time of year.

Friday 5

(Link in meme-roll)
Peaches and Herbs

1. What’s your favorite way to consume peaches?

Sliced into a bowl with just a touch of sugar or a little whipped cream.

2. To what dish does basil make its best contribution?

I like a little dried basil in olive oil over pasta or on bread.

3. What’s something you’re feeling peachy-keen about?

This next week could be so incredibly awesome for me. I can't wait.

4. What’s a cooking herb you dislike?

I'm not much into fennel because of its scent. It tastes ok, in moderation but that smell.

5. What’s something in your residence that’s peach-colored or nearly peach-colored?

My bridesmaids' dresses when I got married were peach. That sort of killed the peach-as-decor concept for me. I think we had some peach towels once. Maybe? Otherwise...not so much.

Blogthings

Your Color Code is Yellow

You are a ton of fun, no matter what is going on in life. You feel like you were put on this planet to have a good time. You see each moment as an adventure, and you refuse to get stuck in a rut. You are always up for doing something new. You are a very persuasive person, but you convince with your actions - not your words. Everyone wants to be living the kind of life you live. You have friends pretty much everywhere you go, and if not, you make new ones easily. You always prefer life as a shared experience.

What's Your Color Code?

There's an awful lot of NOPE here.

Blogthings

Your Uniform is Gray and Red

You are the last person that others would suspect of being a superhero. You are a very private person, and you don't meddle in the concerns of others. You would be pretty reluctant about being a superhero, until you reached your breaking point. And no matter what, you'd remain anonymous! You may try to stick to your own affairs, but you are always ready to step up when no one else will. You are highly energetic and passionate about changing the world. You are a person of great courage and confidence. You never second guess yourself, and you are able to jump right into action when the time is right.

What Color is Your Superhero Uniform?

Not a terrible combination of colors, and I like the description as well.

Color Rush

You Are Earth Green

You are a very caring and nurturing person. Much like Mother Earth, you provide stability and happiness for those around you. You are big on growth in life; each moment is merely a snapshot. You are comfortable with who you are, no matter what state you may be in. You form deep relationships with the people you meet. You are very accepting, and you appreciate complexity in others. You are a people person but not necessarily an extrovert. You are confident enough to be able to lift others up and provide the support they need.

What Bold Color Are You?

How the hell do I keep getting these answers? They are so boring...and consistent?
Also, green is not my favorite color.

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.

good manners are made up of petty sacrifices

(Swiped from Amy)

What are your favourite smells?

"Clean." Vanilla. Fresh bread.

Can you go a whole day without caffeine?

I can, but you really don't want to be around me on that particular day.

Who knows more about you than anyone else?

Normally, I'd say Beast, and that's still probably true, but others are creeping up...or he's sliding down a bit lately.

What song did you last listen to?

I have no idea. Something on Spotify. I don't remember what the last song was because that was more than 20 minutes ago. I've taken to listening to old radio shows on Sirius XM in the car. My CD player is fubar and regular radio just pisses me off.

Do you have a crush on anybody?

Not really. Nah.

Do you like The Beatles?

Yeah. Don't listen to 'em much these days, but I like 'em.

If you could choose one color to wear for a whole year, what color would you choose?

Blue.

Do you cook often?

Not more than a couple of times a week.

What was the last film you watched? Did you like it?

The last one at a theater was the last Star Trek. It was ok.

Can you sew?

Yes, I can. I enjoy it about as much as my mother did.

What is your favorite fruit?

Strawberries.

Are you health conscious?

Yeah, not unless I have to be.

Go do the Kinsey Scale Test, what number result did you receive?

I flunked. Seriously. My result reads as follows: "The test failed to match you to a Kinsey Type profile. Either you answered some questions wrong, or you are a very unusual person."

Do you curse a lot?

I think that answer is a definite yes.

When was the last time you had a pint of beer?

About 2 weeks ago for lunch at a pub I ordered a shandy. I'm not sure it was a full pint of beer, but it's the only beer I've had in decades.

Are you pro life or pro choice?

I like to think I'm trustworthy enough to care for my own body, and I like to give others the benefit of that doubt too. I'm wholly pro-choice.

Is there a certain food you often crave for no reason?

"For no reason" would mean there's no payoff. I mostly crave sweets, and there's definitely a payoff. Unfortunately, I also have developed high blood sugar and keep getting cavities.

What was the last book you purchased?

I bought a ton of them on vacation. I don't know which one was last.

Where was your last vacation?

England.

Do you shave your pits?

It's been known to happen. Better I do it than force someone else to do it!

Did you ever play Seven Minutes in Heaven?

Nope. Never even heard of it till I was too old to play it.

Girls, when was the last time you went out without a bra? Guys, when was the last time you went shirtless in public?

How are these even...? Whatever. I never go braless in public.

Have you ever broken a bone? If so, how did it happen?

Not that I had medical attention for. My fingers are randomly crooked, and I have no doubt in my mind that I seriously damaged my tailbone a couple of years ago.

How do you like your eggs?

Over easy, with buttered toast.

What was your last argument about and who with?

I'm sure it was with Beast, though I'm trying like hell to stop taking the bait.

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
Ask Questions Meme

1. What type of criminal would you be?

I would be stealthy and (I hope) never captured. Prison doesn't really seem like my gig.

2. What are you listening to right now?

We're watching the DVR'd NASCAR race from last night. Just had a little banger that took out a bunch of the "name" guys.

3. If you had to choose a stripper name, what would it be?

For myself or someone else? Frankly, I went to school with some girls whose names, looking back, were pretty close to stripper names. None of them became strippers--I'm Facebook friends with several of them. But really, WHY do we (Americans?) name our girls after alcohol and food: Candy, Sherry, Brandy...?

4. If your phone started ringing, who would you hope is calling?

I would know from the ringtone whether it was someone I wanted to talk to. Beast and Sparky have their own specific ringtones. Close friends all share one. People I need to be sure to answer have a separate one. My extended family and "unknown" all play Rachmaninoff, the Sound of Doom.

5. Do you drink alcohol?

Not very often, not anymore.

6. Do you smoke?

My stock answer is always "only when really angry."

7. What is the first thing you notice in someone?

The more often I am asked this question, the more it boils down to threat assessment: is this someone I need to keep an eye on? are they acting goofy? does she seem friendly? are those kids going to run right in front of me when I walk past?

8. Do you get attached easily?

Not like I used to. Too many emotional injuries.

9. Do you like your eye color?

I'm cool with it.

10. Have any stupid human tricks?

I'm full of 'em. Nothing that would make me much money on stage, though. I know a lot of song lyrics, including most classic musicals, and I can tell you the Dewey call number for a LOT of random subjects, and what the individual parts of the longer numbers mean. I can make a fast béchamel sauce without a recipe. I can fold fitted sheets. I can stand on the edge of a cliff and look down without weirding out.

11. Humor me. What physical ideal do you imagine in a boyfriend/girlfriend/partner?

Look, I'm 52 years old and not at my finest physically. At this point, physical attributes in others aren't something I feel I can be too fussy about. Were I in the market, upright and breathing and not currently hospitalized are major selling points. Nice voice is a bonus. Nice eyes too.

12. Any other essential quirks/interests/other you look for in a boyfriend/girlfriend/partner?

Sense of humor is required, along with plain speaking, and kindness and some humility.

13. Have you ever stolen anything?

Yup, but not for years. Except, I suppose, the occasional paper clip or something from work.

14. Any romantic gestures you really like?

I used to tell Beast not to buy flowers because we couldn't really afford them. Now I wish I'd kept my mouth shut because he buys me flowers less than once a year; I trained him too well.:'(

15. What’s your favorite color and why?

Blue. I think it started because blue jeans, and now is because of missing the blues of the sky and mountains of Colorado. Blue and white were my high school's colors.

16. What were you like when you were a kid?

Shy, quiet, a bit of a loner, bookish, kind of a crybaby.

17. What would your dream house be like?

I love the house in which I live now. The only thing I'd like to add is a hot-tub, but I am not thrilled with the prospect of having to clean it. Here's the floor plan of our house. The kitchen island is different, and instead of a pantry we have floor-to-ceiling bookshelves. There's a fireplace in the living room between the two side windows. Everything else is basically the same.

18. What last made you laugh?

The guys doing the commentary on the race are killing me. They're really confused about the rules of this race, and Waltrip keeps saying stupid stuff like, "When you're leaking fluid and having trouble steering, it's probably power-steering fluid that's leaking." Derp.

19. Do you have a place you like to go to collect your thoughts?

Bed or the bathroom.

20. What is your favorite word?

Lately, it's been "fuck" and all its cognates. I've totally become a sailor.

21. What is your least favorite word?

"Sorry." It means nothing, nothing, if there's no change in behavior following it.

22. Would you go bungee jumping/sky diving if given the chance?

You bet!!

23. Do you have any siblings?

I have one sister and one brother left.

24. Do you like to dance?

Yes. But not in public.

25. What is your definition of cheating?

Lying about emotional commitments to others.

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
Monsters in the Closet Meme

Do you usually sleep with your closet door open or closed?

My closet door is open all the time because it has a furnace vent in it. Beast's door is usually closed.

Do you take the shampoos and conditioner bottles from hotels?

You bet I do! I give them to the local homeless shelters.

Have you ever ‘done it’ in a hotel room?

Uh, I've done a LOT of things in hotel rooms, including the infamous "It" and more than once.

Where is your next vacation?

The next one I know for sure is in September. Family wedding. On a farm. Near Bristol.

Have you ever stolen a street sign before?

Nope. None of my names have EVER shown up on a sign, and besides, I just don't get the attraction..

Who do you think reads these?

"These..." memes? Or what? I tend to read the answers of people who tag themselves.

Do you have a calendar in your room?

I do.

Where are you?

I'm on the sofa, as usual. Front door is open. Back door is open. I'm going outside to sit on the porch when I'm done with this.

What’s your plan for the day?

Porch. Possible nap. Leftover white pizza. It's possible I will hear from my child. Maybe.

Are you reading any books right now?

I've got 8 going at the mo. Actually, no: I finished one before I went to sleep last night. Don't worry; I have another cued up to replace it. ;-)

Do you ever count your steps when you walk?

Sometimes. Why do we do this?

Have you ever peed in the woods?

Of course. It's not very glamorous, especially in February.

Do you ever dance even if there’s no music playing?

All the time.

Do you chew your pens and pencils?

No, but I have been known to carry them in my mouth when my hands are full, or busy.

What is your “Song of the Week”?

This week? Hmm....I'm still humming "Great Is Thy Faithfulness" from church this morning. That wouldn't be a bad one.

Is it okay for guys to wear pink?

Of course!!

Do you still watch cartoons?

Nope.

What's your favorite love movie?

I'm not a big rom-com person. Perhaps "The Big Chill" or something along that line.....

What do you drink with dinner?

Pop. Or water.

What do you dip Chicken Nuggets in?

My mouth. I don't eat them with sauce.

What is your favorite food/cuisine?

Italian.

What movies could you watch over and over and still love?

"Shoah", "RHPS", "Heathers", "The Matrix"....there's a few more.

Last person you hugged/kissed?

Beast.

Were you ever a boy/girl scout?

Yup.

Would you ever strip or pose nude in a magazine?

Hell no.

Tea

(Found here)

black: how much personal space do you like?

I'm a midwesterner, so a fair amount compared to (for instance) southern Europeans, New Yorkers, etc. If you get close enough to me that I can smell your breath when you talk, you're too close. Especially if you had spicy/oniony food recently. Or, for cryin' out loud, BOOZE! Back the fuck right off!

chamomile: describe your sleep schedule

I shoot to head to bed by 9:30 so I can be asleep before 11. I'm usually awake at some point between 1 and 4 for an hour or so (usually more), and I'm out of bed no later than 7:30, though it varies from day to day. Often, I'm working on 5-6 hours average for several nights running. Or less.

dandelion: when you make wishes who are they for?

World peace. Me and Andie McDowell. Maybe there's something in the water around here....

elderflower: do you get sick often?

Define "often." I don't, not really, but I often feel like death in the colder months of the year, mostly psychosomatic.

fennel: how do you feel right now?

I'm exhausted. Considering I've had the last three days off work, I feel like I need a vacation! This semi-nursing situation at home just sucks. So much to worry about, all the time.

ginger: what animal do you act like?

I fear I am very much like my nickname on line. And often, not a very nice feline, either.

ginseng: post a photo of somewhere you feel calm

I don't have a picture of my bed, asleep. Or the driver's seat of my car on a country road with the sun shining and no worries.

green: list your top 3 motivators

1. Fear. 2. Love. 3. Stubbornness.

hibiscus: do you like when people try to start a conversation with you?

That is 100% dependent on the person. In general, when I'm out in public doing my own thing, no. At work, I don't mind, up to a point. And if you're creepy, do not talk to me. Ever.

kava: post your favorite color scheme

I like blue. Seriously, throw me in a blue room, or a room with blue furnishings and I'll be fine.

lavender: does physical activity help you relax?

Mindless stuff does...until it doesn't. I get antsy and bored if I do too much mindless physical stuff.

lemon: how differently do you behave when you're by yourself versus when you're with others?

I hope it's not a lot different. I suppose I talk to myself more when no one's around, since there's no one else to talk to. ;-)

matcha: do you prefer sunrises or sunsets?

Sunrise.

mint: what song gives you energy?

Almost anything by Bruno Mars, Katy Perry, or Pink will do.

nettle: is there anything you do when you feel guilty?

I get defensive and irritable.

oolong: where do you see yourself in five years?

Here is fine. I do hope that Beast isn't on Round Three of back pain. I'm tired of this.

peppermint: are you self righteous?

I can be, yes.

rooibos: if a conversation bothers you, will you speak up about it?

Oh, probably. I seem to have lost a lot of my etiquette filters over the years (assuming I had any to start with).

white: do you think family is important?

If your family isn't totally toxic, yes. Family is the most important thing, unless they are horrible people. I'm not, for a change, being flippant either. My family has a few nutjobs, but I love them all--when I don't want to bash them on their heads--and I know they've got my back. But we also tend to be generally rational, ethical, kind, and law-abiding.

Wednesday Hodgepodge

(Link in meme-roll)

1. Besides Thanksgiving, something you're looking forward to on your November calendar?

Both Beast and I have birthdays this month. Mine is next week, and his is the following week. Hopefully we'll be able to do something fun to celebrate them. We'll each achieve a full deck of years this time 'round.

2. If I gave you a thank you card right now who would you send it to and why?

The people at work who have been more than understanding about my recent adventures in medical hassle with Beast.

3. Of the breads listed, which one's your favorite...bagel, cinnamon, sourdough, garlic, banana, biscuit, pita, Naan, or plain old fashioned white bread?

Oh, dear.... I'm a real bread-aholic. I'm not a fan of cinnamon bread and banana bread doesn't do much for me, but I with stuff my face FULL of any of the other options.

4. What's something you have in abundance? Is that a good thing?

I have S&Ps in abundance. There are currently two shelving units that Beast has purchased in the past year that he needs to refinish and then I can fill them with currently-packed-away S&Ps. yay

5. November 5th is National Love Your Red Hair Day. Are there any redheads in your family? Who's your favorite redhead?

h.s. physics with Jesus-freak hair

My son has the same color hair as my dad did. By the time I was born, however, Dad's auburn had turned white, so I have to rely on others' memories. Sparky's hair is to die for (it's also MUCH shorter now!).
My sister Ellen had red hair too. Same shade.

6. The travel website Busbud recently calculated the most Instagrammed spot in every state. Go here to see what made the list where you live. Are you happy with your state's #1? If not what do you think should be the most photographed spot in your state? Have you snapped a photo there? If you live outside the USA answer as it relates to your state, city or province.

Are you kidding me?! Both my home state and my current state are baseball stadiums! FFS, that's just sad. Flat and dull as this place is, there's definitely more to see here that *@!)#ing baseball. And in Colorado, you take pictures of baseball? Really? I don't think so. And no, I haven't ever been to either stadium.

7. I'm going to try to have something related to gratitude in this spot each week during the month of November. Here's this week's question: What's something you've learned about yourself this year that you're grateful for?

I now know that I should have more faith in my skills than I currently have. I had no intention to drive the RV we rented last month, but I ended up driving it 400 miles home, driving it in city traffic and through a major construction zone, and setting it up alone.

8. Insert your own random thought here.

It's very sad when you've lived in an area long enough, and visited the hospital so many times that you know EXACTLY where the best parking spots are, where the cafeteria is, where the restrooms are in radiology, and how to get out of the hospital (legally) without going all the way back to the front door.