Saturday 9 (x2)

(Link in meme-roll)

Hold On (1990)

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

 

1) This song gives encouragement to someone who is enduring heartache. Have you more recently given support, or received it?

There's been a lot of receiving of late. It's not a place I'm very comfortable living in. 

2) "Hold On" is featured prominently in the 2011 movie Bridesmaids. It's an anthem for the friends in the film and they love to sing it together. Is there a song that reminds you of good times with a good friend?

One that reminds me of college, and one specific college friend, is "Safety Dance." It's a terminally silly song, with great memories around concerts and campus radio sets, that makes me smile every damn time I hear it. 

3) The video for this song finds Wilson Phillips outdoors on a snowy mountainside and then on a sandy beach. What's the view outside your window?

Cloudy skies, green trees and the eave of the house next door is all I can see from my recliner. 

4) The mountain segments were filmed in California's San Gabriel Mountains. The girls were flown to the set by helicopter. Have you ever been in a helicopter?

I would LOVE to have a long helicopter ride around some scenic area just for the experience. The only person I know of close to me who's been in a helicopter is Beast and that was Flight for Life. This is NOT how I wish to travel!

5) The members of Wilson Phillips are authentic "California Girls." Wendy and Carnie Wilson's father is Brian Wilson, who wrote the Beach Boys hit[s]. Chynna Phillips is the daughter of John and Michelle Phillips of the Mamas and the Papas, who sang "California Dreamin'." Have you been to California? If yes, where did you visit?

I've been to Cali several times, mostly to cities--San Diego, San Francisco, Los Angeles--but I loved the ocean in each of those areas. 

6) Another generation of the Wilson family has entered the music business. Carnie's daughter/Brian Wilson's granddaughter, Lola Bonfiglio, participated in the current season of American Idol. Has a family member followed you in your chosen profession?

Heh. I followed my sister into Library Science. My niece followed me into it. We all (have) had good long careers in a field that is wholly worthwhile and rewarding (when it isn't wholly frustrating and infuriating).

7) In 1990, when this song was popular, satellite radio was in its infancy and streaming was unheard of. Our cars gave us a choice of AM/FM and maybe CD player/tape deck. When you're driving and a favorite song comes on, are you more likely to sing along if you're alone? Or don't you care if anyone hears you?

I rarely listen to music in the car anymore. I have a ginormous backlog of podcast episodes I'm trying to get through. I do talk back to them regularly, and sometimes pause the whole thing to argue about something, but not when/where people can see me. If I do have music on I sing along rather mindlessly, whether or not others are around. I don't care if anyone else hears or sees me. I don't mind being the crazy old lady in town. 

8) Also in 1990, actor Alan Hale Jr. died. He was "the skipper" on Gilligan's Island. Without looking it up, can you name the other six castaways? (If not the actors, then their characters.)

Gilligan, the millionaire and his wife, the movie star, the professor and Mary Ann. I don't know all the actors' names, but man I loved that show as a kid. 

9) Random question: What superhero would you like to have as your best friend?

Deadpool seems fun, if rather dangerous, to hang out with. [I don't see most superhero movies, so that's all I can come up with...]

Too Shy (1983)

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

1) This song laments vulnerability and self-consciousness in a social settings. Are you often "too shy?" Or are social gatherings easy for you?

I am terminally shy, but adept at snapping on my Public Mask in a flash and smiling and schmoozing through a (short) party or meeting. Also, I'm unable to abide silence in social settings so I talk too much.  

2) In the lyrics, a girl self-censors, telling herself, "hush hush." Have you more recently shushed someone, or were you shushed?

As a librarian.... ha ha ha. I get shushed by patrons more than I shush them. Then again, most of my public service work is in the children's room, so it's pretty loud in there. I did get shushed yesterday at work by a little girl who wanted us to whisper about the snake puppet she said had bitten her, and which then bit me. 😀 

3) Band member Nick Beggs recalls that they called themselves Kajagoogoo because it sounded like something that would make a baby laugh. It is fun to say. Can you think of another word that you just enjoy saying?

"Shenanigans."  Also, "boooolllshiiiitttt." 

4) This was the only US hit for the British band, earning Kajagoogoo the title "One Hit Wonder." Can you think of another artist or band who had one really popular song and then just kind of disappeared?

Well, I seem to be calling out "Safety Dance" a lot this week, so I'll hit them up again.

5) Though fame was fleeting here, Kajagoogoo remained popular in England. Lead singer Limahl recalls the adulation as "overwhelming," and he was shocked when he stepped on stage in Cornwall to see row after row of fans wearing their hair like he did. Have you ever handed a photo to a stylist and said, "Make my hair look like this?"

I don't think I've done precisely this, but I did have a "Lady Di" haircut as a late teen, and I'm sure I've said other things to hairdressers over the years about hairstyles I thought would work with my hair. 

6) In 1983, when this song was popular, the Lotus 1-2-3 program made it easier for PC users to make spreadsheets. Are you answering these questions on a Mac or PC? Laptop, phone or tablet?

I'm on a Lenovo laptop. I've never used a Mac except when strictly necessary, and phones/tablets have too small of a keyboard for me to properly type.

7) 1983 saw Abbey Road Studios open their doors for the first time for public tours. During the first two months, 22,000 tickets were sold to fans who wanted to see where the Beatles made their magic. What's the last ticket you purchased?

I can honestly say that I haven't purchased tickets for ANYthing in years. Maybe parking in a hospital lot, but honestly even then I think it was just a pass-through not an actual ticket.  

8) Also in 1983, McDonald's introduced Chicken McNuggets. When was chicken most recently on the menu at your home? How was it prepared?

At home? I have a container of rotisserie chicken shreds I nosh on for dinner once in awhile. I had chicken strips from some fastfood place this week for lunch, maybe even McDonalds. I eat a lot of chicken. Or peanut butter. Those are my main protein sources. 

9) Random question: Have you ever forgotten where you left your car in a parking lot?

I forgot which lot I parked in AT WORK on Wednesday this week! This isn't an uncommon occurrence. I'm the flakiest person on staff, hands-down. 

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
Listen to the Music (1972)
Because Zippi requested it.
Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) The lyrics say, "What the people need is a way to make them smile." What song lifts your spirits and makes you smile every time you hear it?

Almost anything by Katy Perry: "Roar" for instance. Or Pharrell Williams' "Happy." Or almost anything by Bruno Mars.

2) Lead vocalist/composer Tom Johnston reports that he's made a lot in royalties because so many radio stations use this as a jingle. Tell us a jingle that sticks in your head.

I can still do the old McDonald's "Two all-beef patties, special sauce...." thing. And "plop, plop, fizz, fizz" for that matter.

3) The Doobie Brothers got their start in San Jose, California. San Jose is the largest city in Northern California, thanks to all the tech companies that have headquarters there. Let's talk about the device you're on right now: are all your applications up to date?

They are. I just had this puppy in the shop a couple of weeks ago, so I think things are still relatively clean.

4) When they were still a local band, the Doobie Brothers had a strong following among bikers. Are you attracted to biker culture?

I own stock in Harley Davidson. My father-in-law worked for them. Bikers are ok by me, as long as they aren't lawbreakers.

5) This week's song is from Toulouse Street, which is considered their "breakthrough" album. Tell us about a moment in your own life that you consider a "breakthrough."

I've been thinking about this brainwave for a few weeks: when I was about 12 or so, after a(nother) screaming match between my mom and me, I remember being in my room and suddenly realize that we butted heads so often because we were so much alike. This was not great news, all things considered since I was pretty angry with her, but it did help me understand and deal with some of her (and my) peculiarities going forward.

6) In 1987, the Doobie Brothers did a benefit performance for Vietnam Veterans at the Hollywood Bowl. Next to the Beatles, it was the fastest-selling ticket in Hollywood Bowl history. Which group do you listen to more often -- the Doobies or the Beatles?

Doobies. Not sure why, but they rotate around my Spotify more often than the Beatles.

7) In 1972, when this song was popular, Wranglers were America's best-selling jeans. Are you brand-loyal to one jeans manufacturer?

I mostly wear Lee blue jeans, and GV color jeans.

8) Grocery stores saw seafood prices fluctuate wildly in 1972 because of a series of confrontations between the United Kingdom and Iceland regarding fishing rights in the North Atlantic. (Iceland won.) What was the most recent seafood dish that you enjoyed?

Hmm. I can't think of any seafood....oh, yeah, I had crab rangoon with my takeout Chinese last weekend.

9) Random question: Which of these "top ten" lists would you prefer to be on -- the sexiest, the smartest or the richest?

Smartest.

Friday 5

(Link in meme-roll)
Malfunction Junction

1. When have you had a wardrobe malfunction?

   Of late, most of my wardrobe issues have involved spilling food down my front. Maybe I should stop eating in the car?

2. When did you last have a problem with your alarm clock?

   The only problem I have with my alarm clock, i.e. phone, is when I forget to set it.

3. What was your most recent computer problem, and what was the fix?

   The usual: reboot and voilà!

4. What’s something about cars you know specifically because you had to have one repaired?

   Brake shoes make a horrible sound when they are worn out. I'm not going to explain how I know this, except that it was Dad's car and I had to drive on that set of squeaky shoes to pick up Mom from the airport because Dad was busy having a heart attack.

5. Have you had any brain malfunctions this week?

   Oh of course. Every day. I forgot graham crackers at the store earlier, for instance.

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
Ask, ask, ASK

1 - Who was the last person you texted?

I responded to a (small) group Facebook PM this morning; this and my phone messaging are now linked so it's ridiculously easy to text the wrong person by accident from my phone now! However, this one was legit. My reply: "I'll defer to Leslie on this , but I will campaign for you guys too. And as long as it's not on a Tuesday or Wednesday, I'll totally be there." This in response to an out-of-state friend whose husband has just written a book and is looking to do a bookstore visit at our local indie to publicize it. I know the owner. And "Leslie" works there.

2 - When is your birthday?

In 6 days.

3 - Who do you want to be with right now?

No one. I will have the house to myself for a couple of weeks starting tomorrow for the first time in MONTHS! I can't wait!

4 - What sports do you play?

I don't.

5 - Who is the first person in your blogroll?

"First"? It's alphabetized, and I can't even remember who got added when. A couple of those listed are mine, so I guess those would be the oldest.

6 - What is your favorite song at the moment?

I woke up with P!nk's "OMG" on repeat play in my head this morning. While I did hear it (in headphones) at work this week, it isn't the song one would expect me to be humming, not of late. Disclaimer: do NOT click on that link if you are in a PG-rated location!!

7 - If you were stranded on an island, who do you wish to be with?

MacGyver, preferably the old one, not the current one. But he doesn't need to RUSH getting us rescued, just that he's able to do it eventually.

8 - What do you feel right now?

The of-late ever-present sinus headache. Slightly chilly feet (it's 64 degrees and the front door is open ON NOVEMBER 6!! Crazy weather!). And the laptop keys. Because yes I am that literal.

9 - What chocolate is your favorite?

Cadbury. Which is now owned by Kraft, so it's going to get crappy. After that, I'll be heading to Germany for my choco fix.

10 - How many boyfriends/girlfriends did you have?

Cue massive increase in headache pain. Jeez, I'm nearly 53; when will this question just stop!?

11 - Why did you create a blog account?

Because I'm a huge copycat and all the Kool Kids were doing it!

12 - Who is your favorite blogger?

Amy. I never know what I'm going to get when she posts, but it's always ALWAYS interesting.

13 - Where do you want to be right now?

As always, I would love to be in the Colorado mountains somewhere in a cabin with a very comfy bed, snuggling in for a mid-afternoon nap next to a cuddly puppy.

14 - What do you want to be in the future?

Alive. One of the kids in Sunday School today said that her plan for adulthood is to "live until [she] die[s]." I call that a pretty good life plan.

15 - When was the last time you cried? Why?

Friday at my meeting because I was having a mini-pity-party for myself.

16 - Are you happy?

Driving home from Sparky's yesterday, I found myself thinking that life is Pretty Damn Good right now (then): between the weather, the beautiful skies and trees, Beast snoring next to me in the passenger seat, knowing Sparky's doing all right, on a good road with sensible drivers, the smell of burning leaves around us......

17 - Who do you miss?

This weekend, it's my dad. Yesterday would have been his 97th birthday. He died when he was (just barely) 75. I miss him.

18 - If you were given a chance, would you like to have a different life?

There've been a lot of books of late that talk about being reborn in the same body over and over and what you could change and what you would change once you know what those changes do to the rest of your life. I'd love to do that. Except for having to suffer the loss of good people over and over again....

19 - What was the best thing you were given?

Overall, it has to be a stock of strength: physical, emotional, spiritual.

20 - Who was the last person who called you?

Looks like the last incoming call was a reminder on Wednesday about an appointment on Thursday.

21 - What is your favorite dish?

I'm making homemade mac n cheese tonight with hot dogs for Beast as a bye-bye meal. It is my favorite, hands down, too. My favorite LITERAL dish is perhaps the one I make that meal in. :-)

22 - Who is your best friend?

I have a lot of superb friends, and I feel blessed for every one of them and for every single thing I receive from them not to mention the minimal things I'm able to do for them.

23 - What is your biggest regret?

How much I've let fear rule my decisions.

24 - Have you ever avoided your partner?

Well of course!

25 - Who do you spend crazy moments with?

Anyone willing to put up with me!

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
Hold It Against Me (2011)
Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) Britney Spears addresses this song to a dance partner when she hears her favorite song. What song always makes you want to get up and dance?

Lots of songs, particularly show tunes. "I'm Gonna Wash That Man Right Outta My Hair", "Matchmaker Matchmaker", and like that, and several songs from Hamilton. And "Sweet Child O' Mine." Go figure.

2) She sings that she needs a vacation. How about you? If you could escape anywhere for an affordable three-day weekend, where would you go?

Far away from everyone I know. Seriously. South America sounds really good.

3) Britney shows off her dance moves in this video. Her coordination shouldn't be surprising, since she was already an accomplished gymnast in grade school. If we asked you to turn a somersault right now, could you do it?

Maybe, but I wouldn't. The last time I tried one, I was in so much pain I just sat on the floor holding my neck for half an hour hoping I hadn't broken my neck. I was 19.

4) Britney's first and only feature film was Crossroads, written by Shonda Rhimes. Ms. Rhimes is famous for writing popular TV series including Grey's Anatomy, Scandal, The Catch and How to Get Away with Murder. Have you watched any Shonda Rhimes shows?

Nope. I'm not into soapy stuff. ... Waiting for the fans to chime in.

5) Britney admits to smoking and biting her nails. Do you share either of these bad habits?

I definitely bite my nails, but less than I used to. Never smoked, thank God, since I'd probably be seriously hooked.

6) Britney prefers Margherita pizza to thin slice or deep dish pizza. What's your pizza preference?

Hello?! Chicago deep-dish forever and ever!!

7) In 2011, when this song was popular, Prince William's wedding to Kate Middleton was big news. Are you a royal watcher?

Kinda. I did get up and watch the wedding, as I watched his mother and father's wedding 30 years ago. I work with someone who's pretty insane about the whole subject so I feel pretty meh around her.

8) Apple co-founder Steve Jobs died in 2011. Do you have a Mac, and iPad or an iPhone?

Never had one. Don't plan on changing that any time soon.

9) Random question: Which friend annoys you more, the one who interrupts you all the time, or the one who is never on time?

I grew up in a big family that talked over each other all the time. Being late pisses me off, even when I try to be understanding.

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
My Friends Call Me Tulip

1. Can you stay inside all day without getting bored?

   Yup. I've had to learn that since I'm basically allergic to the outdoors from early August until a hard frost in the fall.

2. Tell us about a TV show that we should watch.

   As my son says, "you do you" so I try not to tell people what they should do. Having said that, I really like almost everything Mike Rowe is involved in.

3. When was the last time you were at your home computer all day?

   I'm not sure. Maybe last weekend? I don't know; it's not that unusual.

4. What websites other than your own do you visit daily?

   What I have open right now: GoodReader, Inoreader, Gmail, Facebook, and Blogger. I don't go to my site daily, or even Blogger. Facebook is my crack.

5. Do you have a favorite day of the week? Why?

   I used to love Mondays; I still like them, but I work full-time now so it's less exciting. I like Fridays at work too--they just seem way laid-back.

6. Did you ever watch Saturday morning cartoons? What was your favorite?

   Nope. Saturday morning, when I was a child, meant staying in my room and cleaning while Mom cleaned the rest of the house. Once lunchtime passed, I was free to do whatever I wanted, which rarely involved TV.

7. Were you a comic book fan?

   Not so much, no.

8. Did you earn an allowance when you were a kid? How much? Was it tied to chores?

   My parents were never really into this. I got paid a little to take the trash out for awhile, but mostly if I wanted money, I just asked. Which involved explaining what I wanted it for.

9. What is the fanciest type of car you've ridden in? What occasion?

   I was in a Porsche for a day quite some time ago, helping a friend move. She was 24...and owned a Porsche. WTF! And I've ridden in a number of limos over the years. It's an airport thing around here.

10. What's your favorite sport to watch?

    Football. Really, need you ask??

11. Ever tried surfing?

    Nope. I can't swim. Surfing seems like it could be rather dangerous for me.

12. Have you ever been to a live major team sporting game?

    Yeah. Been to a NFL games, a couple of NBA games, lots of MLB games, and some hockey and soccer games. You know what, though: I've never been to a sports event in another country. There's a bucket list thing.

13. From a scale of 1 to 5 how athletic are you (1=nerd, 5=very athletic)?

    I'm probably about -4 these days.

14. What's your favorite horror movie?

    I don't do horror movies.

15. What is your favorite cult classic movie?

    By default, it has to be RHPS.

16. About how many times do you go to the movies a month?

    I think my average for this year is up to .2 times per month. Last few years, it would probably be closer to .02 times per month.

17. Favorite movie, which one came to your head first?

    Shoah

18. What if your life was like a movie? What type of movie would it be?

    Deadly dull with moments of insanity. I'm not sure anyone would watch it.

19. Do you like long series movies, like "Lord of the Rings"?

    Well, I don't like LotR, but I did enjoy the Harry Potter movies and the Matrix movies. Generally, though, I prefer brand-new ideas rather than re-doing the same damn thing over and over. Hello, superheroes, I'm looking SQUARELY at you!

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
Carry A Tune Meme

Do you own a tablet of any kind?

I have a Nook. Beast does as well. And his new work computer is a Microsoft Surface Pro.

What’s something people always assume about you that isn’t true?

That I've read every book in the library where I work. It's also possible that many people think my only emotional setting is anger. It's definitely not!

On a scale of 1-10, how much do elevators scare you?

I guess that would be a 1. Unless I can go to 0.

When you’re upset, do you vent to people or do you keep to yourself?

Heh, I think we can all acknowledge that I'm a venter. I've been working on trying to keep some things from spewing. It's haaaaarrrrrrrrrrd.

Have you ever watched a meteor shower?

Yes. I imagine it would be wonderful out in the country, on a mountain or something. In town, on our back porch was underwhelming.

Do you tend to put things off until the last minute?

Uh...er... yes.

How do you react to random strangers suddenly trying to make conversation with you?

I live in the Midwest. People do this ALL THE TIME! As do I. It's expected! ;-)

Do you have a lucky number?

I have numbers I really like, but I don't really do the "lucky number" thing. 3 is good. So is 16. And 8.

Would you go out to dinner with Oprah?

If she's buying, sure! It better not be a Weight Watchers meal, either!!

Did you ever play sports?

I was on the 7th grade girls volleyball team, and the 8th grade basketball team. Hated both, though I wasn't as awful as I thought I was then.

Do you feel guilty if you throw food away?

YES! Holy cow, this makes me nuts, and I do it all the time because I'm not my mom, who kept food WELL PAST it's possible safety date.

Do you think you could make it as a baker?

Sure. I love baking. It's eating the stuff that causes the problem. And making time to do it and cleaning up.

Are you one of those people who are wearing scarves with everything?

Not with everything, no, but I have learned the joy of scarves in the winter in a drafty, chilly building.

Have you ever been in a castle?

I have! Many times! Well, many castles I guess. German, Chinese, Scottish, Russian, English and Italian. And one American that I can be fairly sure that no one reading this has heard of much less visited.

When you were little, did you ever play with Playdoh?

Not until my nieces had it. I missed Playdoh for myself by about 3 years.

Would you rather write a mystery or love story?

Mystery. I'm pretty sure I could toss together a decent love story in about 18 hours' worth of work. A mystery would take more time. Really, though, I'd rather write a good book, regardless of genre, and that will take more than 18 hours for sure.

Tell me about your worst fashion mistake:

Every day, my friend, every day.

Do you hate it when people smoke around you?

I'm allergic, so yeah, it's not my favorite. I'm not all militant about it, but I will move away as far as possible from smoke.

How are you wearing your hair right now?

I have short hair, so it's the same everyday. Today it's pretty flat and blah, kind of like my attitude. Having just looked at a picture I just posted on Facebook, however, "flat" is a relative term. My hair is just curly enough to be fluffy even when it's having a shitty day.

When’s the last time you were sick?

I haven't felt very good all week, but I haven't been actually sick for awhile. Knock wood.

Would you rather have OJ or milk with your breakfast?

Neither! OK, I'll go with OJ, but it had better be fresh and pulp-free!

What were you doing thirty minutes ago?

Cleaning the guinea pig cage. I think?

Do you own any school related clothing articles?

I'm wearing pajama bottoms from my college alma mater right now. They are orange and blue, so it's a color scheme I can get behind today. (I don't have anything that is Panthers, though I really like them too.)

Would you rather call people or have them call you?

I'd rather not talk on the phone, period. Text, email, IM...unless you're my son. :-)

Can you carry a tune?

Once I had my surgery last winter and recovered, my voice came back! I can sing. Not great, not solo-worthy or anything, but I can sing.

Who was the last person who unexpectedly texted you?

Maybe one of the people at one of my meetings. Not a huge surprise: I had called her in a bit of a panic. I didn't expect her to text. It's all good. For now.

Who do you text the most?

Beast. Sparky is a close second.

The past is what makes up who we are. Don't let it become your burden

(Swiped from Amy, the Source of All Goodness)

How tall are you?

171 cm or so.

Do you have a hidden talent and if so, what?

The speed at which I can alphabetize paper slips is astounding. Then there's my rapid-fire updating of OCLC records. But my best talent is sleeping, even when in a situation that would find most people with eyes uncloseable.

What is your biggest blog-related pet peeve?

I guess it's those people who think that because they can post something up on a website it endows them with the same skills as someone who has studied journalism and made a career of it. I have a specific site in mind (they call themselves "County Watchdogs" but really they're just mean-spirited gossips), but I'm not limiting myself to them. "Citizen Journalism" is unreliable at best.

What is your biggest non-blog-related pet peeve?

Meanness. Why we gotta be so bloody MEAN to each other all the time??

What’s your favorite song?

Depends on the day. Of late, "St. Teresa" (Joan Osborne) has been popping up with some regularity.

What’s your favorite Etsy shop?

I don't think I've ever bought anything from anyone on Etsy, but I follow the Tumblr of the woman who does this shop and she (and her work) cracks me up.

What’s your favorite way to spend your free time when you’re alone?

Reading, puzzling (as in Sudoku and crosswords), Facebooking. Mostly in that order.

What’s your favorite junk food?

Those damned Lofthouse iced sugar cookies.

Do you have a pet or pets?

We are down to just Pintobean the guinea pig. Unless you count the dust dinosaurs....

What are your number one favorite non-fiction and fiction books?

Overall, the Kent Haruf novels are my favorites. I mean as the story of the town of Holt. Nonfiction....hmmm, the one that's keeping my sanity the best is probably someone Al-Anon related. A lot of the stuff is inane and insipid, but there's almost always a little nugget of thought-provoking stuff to chew on.

What’s your favorite beauty product?

Burt's Bees lip balm. Not the mango, but the peppermint stuff is wonderful!

When were you last embarrassed and what happened?

I'm mortified that I've been incredibly credible. Again. Why do I believe what people tell me rather than believing the evidence my senses are screaming at me?!

If you could only drink one beverage (besides water) for the rest of your life, what would it be?

Diet Dr. Pepper.

What’s your favorite movie?

The ones that make me laugh the hardest--for obviously different reasons--are Paint Your Wagon, RHPS, and Heathers. The best one EVER is Shoah, but you best bring a truck of Kleenex, some ulcer meds, and something to chew on to keep from screaming, and do NOT watch it if at all depressed.

What were you in high school: prom queen, nerd, cheerleader, jock, valedictorian, band geek, loner, artist, prep etc.?

I was co-valedictorian--six of us were within 1/100th in GPA so they weenied out and refused to pick one (I was probably 3 or 4 out of about 300 in my class)--and a huge band-nerd-slash-brainiac.

If you could live anywhere in the world, where would you live?

Right now, that house on Tierra del Fuego, or in the middle of the Mojave, sounds fabulous.

PC or Mac?

PC, because I haven't use an Apple product since approximately 1987. I don't hate them, but it's just easier to use the same basic product at home and at work. This minimizes the hassle in sending files back and forth--though I think nowadays that's less of a problem. It used to be a huge hassle.

Last romantic gesture from a crush, date, boyfriend/girlfriend?

Hah! First of all, I'm married, nearly 30 years in at this point. Secondly, Beast is not exactly Mr. Romantic. However, he did surprise me with those damned sugar cookies recently. ;-)

Favorite celeb?

I don't really like "celebs." There are a lot of famous people that I like because they are doing good and admirable things: Jimmy Carter, Meredith Vieiera, Michelle Obama, even Prince Charles. I don't tend to care too much about people who are famous for being famous (I'm looking at you, Housewives and Kardashians and Survivor has-beens, et al.).

Which blogger do you secretly want to be best friends with?

I am friends with several of the bloggers I follow. One of my besties IRL and several who've crossed into Facebook-friendships. Now that is some weird shit there. If we're talking Big Famous People....Lynne Murphy from this blog is my idol. Funny and smart, and clever, and real.

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
That's All (1983)
Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) In the lyrics, Phil Collins sings of a time he was wrong when he thought he was right. Tell us about a recent time when you got it wrong.

I got WAAAAY over-involved in a conversation on Facebook today that I really should've walked away from. It wasn't my issue, and I ended up getting irritated with stupid people saying stupid things, and then getting pissed and feeling like an idiot for popping off at people...and then wondering why I got so involved in someone else's drama in the first place. Gah....

2) The song is addressed to a lover that Phil clearly feels is contrary. When he says, "day," she says, "night." Is there anyone in your life who seems to disagree with you all or most of the time?

...uhm. It's possible that I'm that guy. {facepalm}

3) This was Genesis' first Top 10 hit in the US. Can you name another Phil Collins or Genesis song?

"Sussudio." "Illegal Alien." "Invisible Touch." "I Can't Dance." "Follow You Follow Me." "In the Air Tonight." "Abacab." "Jesus He Knows Me." I was a bit of a fan back in the 80s, yo.

4) Phil Collins is a model train enthusiast. Is there anything special that you collect?

By default, I have a large-ish S&P collection, though compared to some most of the people in the pictures at that link, I'm a mere piker!

5) Collins was awarded an honorary doctorate from the Berklee College of Music in Boston. At the ceremony, he delivered the commencement address. When did you last give a presentation or deliver a speech?

Hmmm. I guess it's been awhile. I did a couple of Sundays' worth of liturgy at church in the spring. I'm up again this fall at some point. I will probably pontificate at the next meeting of the catalogers in my consortium. ...
Oh, snap! I talk at meetings every week!! Though, technically, it's not a speech. I've led the meetings a couple of times, and actually this reminds me that I do need to come up with something for next week about "Forgetting."
Also, Sunday School starts up again tomorrow, so I guess I'll be talking there, too.

6) One of Phil Collins' early solo albums was called, Hello, I Must Be Going. He took the title from a song in the 1930 Marx Bros. movie, Animal Crackers. What's the last black and white movie or TV show that you watched?

Honestly? I find black-and-white to be difficult to watch. I struggle with b&w photography too. It's not a snob thing: it's just hard for me to focus properly. I can't think of a black-and-white show/movie I've watched in the past year, unless we happened across a Twilight Zone or something by accident.

7) In 1983, when this song was popular, the Lotus 1-2-3 program made it easier for PC users to build spreadsheets. Are you answering these questions on a PC or a Mac? Laptop or desktop? Tablet or phone?

I'm on a 7!?-year-old Gateway laptop (the sticker on the bottom says 2008--holy shit! I need a new computer!). Haven't ever owned a Mac--see no reason to change that now. It's too hard for me to type fast on a tablet or phone, so I only use those for texting or very quick Google searches.

8) 1983 is also the year when McDonald's introduced McNuggets. What's your favorite chicken recipe (assuming it's not McNuggets)?

My mom's baked chicken "recipe" is pretty good. And the recipe I got at my bridal shower from a neighbor lady--whose daughter was my flute teacher--for hot chicken salad is awesome. I've been craving it for awhile, but I need to gather the ingredients.

9) In 1983, President Reagan signed the bill making Dr. Martin Luther King's birthday a holiday. What's your favorite holiday?

Thanksgiving. Relatively low-stress, revolves around food and family and football, and doesn't involve presents or endless decision-making on what to serve people. It's all programmed: just add people!

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
Birds Are Chirping Meme

Name a product you buy mostly because it has a cool package.

I wish I could say that I didn't do this, but I'm pretty sure I've been sucked into this. Unfortunately, the only thing I can think of right now is that I can now buy prepackaged baggies of fresh mini-peppers at the grocery store. That's a bit sad.

What flavor cake do you like for your birthday?

Vanilla with buttercream frosting. I'm not agin lemon cake, but tone down the chocolate and NO FRUIT! In a city where I used to live, and where we have good friends who serve cake regularly, every cake seems to have a layer of jam--it ruins a perfectly delicious cake!

Have you ever been in love with someone much older or younger than you?

I'm assuming this means romantic love. So, no. I've loved a lot of people of many different ages non-romantically.

Have you ever had a job you loved?

I have one now. I love it when it's not making me incredibly angry.

Have you ever been in a building that was on fire?

Thank God, no!

Are you in an argument with anyone right now?

Not really. I'm past my limit of patience with one person at work, though, which is difficult. She's a friend but also I'm her supervisor, so that makes things complicated, and she's ... challenging ... right now.

not my coworker

Would you change your hair color to something outrageous if you would get paid to?

Honestly, I'd probably do it for free if I could be assured it wasn't going to be tragically high-maintenance. One of my co-workers died her hair blue about two weeks ago and it's still washing out and staining her (very pale) skin. She looks like skim milk. I want dye that goes on, stays in my hair (only) for a good long time, and washed out when I'm done.

Have you ever written a poem for someone?

I've written poems about situations. I don't think I've ever written for a person, though, no.

What is a place you’ve vacationed at and would like to go back to?

Ydra.

Do you eat samples at the grocery store?

Occasionally.

What do you absolutely have to have to make your birthday feel special?

Acknowledgement from someone I love that it's my birthday: a card, an email, a gift, a cake, SOMEthing. Sparky, are you listening??

What’s the last tourist area you visited?

The main part of the downtown of the city in which I work is supposedly a "tourist attraction." Whatever. I shop there, I eat lunch there and not because it's touristy, though it is pretty attractive.

Where do you go out to eat for a special occasion?

Probably the resort town north of us, or a really yummy chicken place on the way to said resort.

When was the last time you went to a post office?

I stopped at our P.O. box a couple of weeks ago. Beast usually goes. Otherwise, I pretty much never deal with the USPS.

Is there an item you are saving up to buy right now?

We're thinking about new kitchen countertops. Not really saving up, just deciding how to spend the money we already have saved.

Are you psychic in any way?

That's assuming I believe in psychics in the first place. :-) No. But I think Beast is. And I definitely have had some weird precognitive dreams.

Do you prefer a laptop or desktop? Which are you on now?

They each have their good points. I prefer my laptop, but I like my work desktop a lot too. For different reasons.

Have you ever received a gift and truly did not know what it was?

Yes. And I've received gifts that I recognized but couldn't understand anyone would think I'd need/want them.

What’s your homepage?

I don't have my own site. My browser is set to open my work internal homepage, Gmail and work email automatically in one page and OCLC Connexion in another window. At home, I've always got Inoreader, Blogger, Gmail, Facebook, Goodreads and Random.org open, in two browser windows.

Is there a thing you enjoy doing, but quit because you are not good at it?

Not exactly. I quit bell choir at church because I couldn't deal with the non-music stress of it. Too many chiefs, too many different levels of musical knowledge, general bitchiness....no thanks. I'm pretty good at the music but not at ignoring all the rest of it. I do not enjoy drama!

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
The Best Thing About Me Is You (2010)
Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) What would you say is your best quality?

Well, normally I would say something like 'focus' or 'attention to detail.' Lately, however, I'd go with "Trying Very Hard to Keep Up."

2) In this song, Ricky sings that he's "allergic to tragedy." Do you suffer from any allergies?

I'm allergic to a ton of things. Nothing that will kill me on contact, thank God, but being around cats, dogs, corn pollen, dust, mold, morphine, June grass, and random other stuff. Essentially, in August I'm allergic to everything.

3) Benadryl, the popular allergy medication, is sometimes used to treat insomnia. What do you do when you can't sleep?

I take melatonin every night at dinnertime. That helps. I also use Tylenol PM whenever necessary. Benadryl alone doesn't have much effect on me after so many years of taking it for allergies. On the occasions when I wake up in the night, I read, do a crossword, or get up and try sleeping in the spare room or on the sofa in the living room.

4) The lyrics to this week's song encourage us, "Don't wait until mañana." Are you a procrastinator?

I am very much a procrastinator. Sigh....

5) Ricky Martin is a judge on The Voice ... Mexico, aired on Mexican television. When you watch competition shows like The Voice, Dancing with the Stars or American Idol, do you usually agree with the judges? Or do you think you could do a better job?

I don't want any of these shows. They generally piss me off. especially when it comes to the judging.

6) Ricky tells interviewers that when he was very young, he'd sing in the family kitchen, pretending a wooden spoon was his microphone. Crazy Sam admits to lip synching into a black Magic Marker. When you gave imaginary concerts, what did you use as a microphone?

I don't think I ever needed a mic. I was usually 'starring' in musicals.

7) Ricky began working at the tender age of 9, performing in commercials. How old were you when you received your first paycheck?

First paycheck was about February of 1980. I was just over 16.

8) Ricky does yoga to stay in shape. Have you ever tried yoga?

I have tried modified yoga. I would love to do it for real, but there just isn't anywhere local that fits my schedule.

9) Ricky is of primarily Spanish descent, with a little French mixed in. When you think of French cuisine, what comes to mind?

Frogs' legs. Sauces. Snootiness. I'm not interested in it, really. I prefer Spanish and Mediterranean food in general. ;-)

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
Random 20

1. Have you had an argument with anyone recently? If so, do you still have issues with that person?

Beast and I had a pretty intense discussion yesterday. Do we still have issues? Yes. Was yesterday's resolved. I think so.
Otherwise, I haven't had an argument with anyone. My temper is gradually becoming more biddable.

2. Are you talking to anyone while filling this in? How about texting/chatting on Facebook?

I'm alone in the house with two guinea pigs. Beast is on his way home from church after a post-church meeting. He just told me via text he's stopping for gas, via text, so he will probably be walking in the door at some point while I'm still filling this out.

3. Have you done something recently that helped someone else, in any way?

I taught Sunday School this morning, so there is a faint hope that something I said stuck for one of those squirrels. Also, I helped a few people on Friday at work, it being my job and all.

4. Who was the last person to pay you a compliment?

Vickie.

5. Is there anything that’s happened in the past month, that you wish you could go back in time and change?

Pretty much every day there's something I wish had happened differently.

6. What colour is your purse/wallet?

My wallet--I don't carry a purse--is dark green leather with the Packer "G" embossed on it. It has black polka-dot duct tape holding a seam together inside.

7. What’s the closest item to you that’s black?

The laptop inside is almost all black, except for the screen right now. The screen of my cell is black. Some shoes on the floor in front of the couch are black. The background on the footstool is black. The text of the magazine open next to me is black. I think that's all.

8. Think about what you looked like 5 years ago. How did you look different, compared to the way you look now?

I had longer, differently-colored hair, and I was probably 20 lbs. lighter. Probably less wrinkly and my skin hadn't started to have that weird 'old' texture around my throat and upper chest. Different glasses too.

9. Before Facebook became popular, did you use any other social networking site, like Bebo or Myspace?

I had--probably still have?--a MySpace account, but I couldn't figure out why, or what to do with it. I signed up for Friendster, but never used it. Mostly, I blogged and emailed.

10. Has someone of the opposite sex ever sung to you? If so, how did you respond to it?

Actually yes. I can't remember the details, to be honest, because I was totally mortified.

11. When did you last hug someone of the opposite sex?

This morning, maybe at church? If not, I did hug Beast before I left for Sunday School.

12. Have you ever seen the film “Casablanca”? Did you like it?

I really really need to watch this film! It's one of the few "you have GOT to see it!" things that seems like something I'd actually enjoy.

13. Do you have a relative whose name begins with ‘L’? Tell me about him/her.

One of my sister's real name--as opposed to her blog name--started with L. She was a fun, intense, thoughtful, 'spicy' person and I miss her sense of adventure and positive attitude and honesty more than I can explain. She died 19 years 10 months ago and one day ago, which was about 25 years longer than most people expected when she was about 21. Anyone who says that grief gets easier with time isn't telling the whole truth. I don't cry every day anymore, but I'm starting to tear up right now. Shit.

14. Are you a secretive person?

Uhm, yes. I prefer to call it "super-private" but whatever.

15. When did you last eat?

I had half a donut after church which seems to have carried me well for the past two hours. I should probably go get something a little more substantial, but I'm really not that hungry.

16. If you were going to buy a present for a special person, what would you generally choose?

I almost always try for useful things, or fun things. If it's useful AND fun, so much the better. I bought $350 worth of Christmas ornaments at Hallmark yesterday for gifts. Because I'm totally insane...

17. If I’m going to buy you a box of chocolates, which kind should I definitely NOT get?

I do not like fruit and chocolate together. And mint chocolate is not my thing either. Otherwise, I'm not too fussy.

18. Is there something you generally always ask for help with?

Yardwork. Being outside near growing things here brings on allergies like gangbusters. I also usually as for help with lifting large unwieldy things because I don't trust my sense of balance even without carrying anything!

19. If you had to give up your phone or your computer, which would it be?

Oooh. I can use both for almost everything, but I'd have to Skype everyone with my computer. So, I'll go with keeping my phone. But I can't really surf the net effectively on my phone. Or post to Blogger. ;-)

20. Has anyone called you gorgeous/beautiful today?

Not that I'm aware of. That's fine: I have a big-ass zit erupting on my nose, so I'm not feeling too beautiful today anyway.

Blogthings

You Are a Tablet

When you use the internet, you dig in. You're likely to get engrossed in an book, movie, or game [or website]. You're not as into bite-sized content and quick online distractions. You like to settle in for a while in a comfy spot. Of all the types, you are the most solitary. You're not so into a constant barrage of texts or social media messages. You are very into media of all kinds, and you are always looking for great new photos, videos, and games to enjoy.

Are You a Smart Phone, Tablet, or Laptop?

I don't like to be bothered on IM when I'm browsing and chilling out. Conversation isn't relaxing for me; it's energizing. Example today, by the way, is a website I came upon that discusses what the English language (and world) would look like if William the Conqueror had been just William, some-dude-who-failed-to-conquer. It's LONG, and complex, and meaty.

Patrick's Place

(Link in meme-roll)
Saturday Six

1. I is for IAMATOLOGY: Which home remedy do you have the most success with?

Vitamin C. If I pound it immediately upon feeling slightly sick, I am guaranteed to kick it completely or knock it back substantially.

2. I is for IATOPHOBIA: Which type of doctor or medical expert do you fear visiting the most?

I'm not a huge fan of the eye doctor or the OB/GYN, but I don't really fear any of my doctors.

3. I is for ICON: Of the software icons on your computer, which one do you find yourself clicking on the most?

On my desktop it's definitely Chrome. Nothing else even comes close.

4. I is for INSTRUMENT: Which musical instrument would you be willing to ban from the world?

I'm not a big fan of the soprano sax, but I wouldn't ever try to ban music, even if I don't understand it.

5. I is for INVENTOR: What product do you like enough that you'd like to shake the hand of its inventor?

Book weights.

6. I is for INVISIBLE: If you had the chance to become completely invisible for a week, where's the first place you'd go?

Hmm...not sure. I'd probably hang out at work on a day when I was supposed to be there and see what people say about me not appearing (so to speak). Actually, though, I don't think I have much of a stake in finding this stuff out, so maybe I'd just go sit in random courtrooms and listen to cases, or visit a jail, or take some classes.

Patrick's Place

(Link in meme-roll)
Saturday Six

1. H is for HABITAT: How close is your current home to your "dream" home?

It's pretty darn close! I love this house so much...

2. H is for HACKER: How concerned are you about the threat of someone hacking into your personal accounts?

Probably not concerned enough, but there's not much there, and I'm not a public person, so who would care?

3. H is for HELICOPTER: Have you ever ridden in a helicopter? If not, would you if you had the chance?

No, but I would LOVE a chance. They do helicopter tours of the Grand Canyon out of Vegas and I would so love to do one, but Beast is Not a Fan of heights, so...I need to find someone else to go with.

4. H is for HELL: Do you believe that Hell is a real place, and if so, how do you picture it?

I like Sartre's description in "No Exit"--Hell is other people. As in being trapped forever with the same small group of people you can't stand. I think, really, we create our own hell on earth and there's not really a point in having a specific PLACE called Hell. Much like The Kingdom of Heaven, it's where you are in your headspace sometimes.

5. H is for HITCHCOCK: What’s your favorite Alfred Hitchcock movie?

I like Psycho a lot, and The Birds freaks me out in spite of the laughable (by today's standards) FX.

6. H is for HOLIDAY: Which holiday do you wish people would take more seriously and why?

I wish Christians (real and so-called) would get as worked up about Easter as many of them do about Christmas. It's kinda, y'know, more important theologically.

Patrick's Place

(Link in meme-roll)
Saturday Six

1. D is for DALLY: What activity causes you to waste the most time in your day?

Uh, Facebook? Hands down? Mostly the games, but also catching up with what people have posted. I have re-re-committed to cooling it with the games, but I suspect that vow will be broken.

2. D is for DANCE: Do you enjoy dancing in public, and how often do you do so?

No, I used to feel like a spastic giraffe. Now I feel like an elephant with asthma. So, no dancing in public for me. Even when I was in college I rarely danced, UNLESS I was somewhat inebriated. That was my excuse when the Russian sailor asked me to dance in Irkutsk, too.

3. D is for DECAF: Do you get a genuine buzz from coffee and if so, how many cups per day is your limit?

I don't drink coffee. Going without my diet caffeinated pop is an absolutely horrible thought, however. I probably have about 6-8 cups of that going in a day (so, like, 3-4 12-oz bottles).

4. D is for DISK: What was the size, in inches, of the floppy disk most commonly in use when you got your first computer: 8”, 5.25”, or 3.5” or were floppies already out of use?

I think we just missed the 8" disks by less than a couple of years. We still have 5" floppies around here, and some 3.5" ones. My husband used to make the rings in the center of the 5" disks--hub rings--in the late 80s. Yes, niche market. He has moved on, of course.

5. D is for DORMITORY: How much appeal did you or would you have seen in living in a dormitory in college?

I never realized how easy dorm life was in comparison with "real life" until I was done with college. I lived in the same room for three years of college, and moved down the hall to a single my senior year. Freshman year was awful: I was homesick, used to crashing at 10 p.m. and sleeping 8 straight hours, and unused to sharing a room. But making friends was SO FREAKIN' EASY: open your door and people just stopped in all the time. I still miss that, and it's 28 years since I graduated! However, I do not miss the noise at midnight, nor the frequent and regular drunkenness and results of that in the communal bathroom.

6. D is for DRIVE-THROUGH: What's the last restaurant you purchased food from via its drive-through?

We drove through at BK after braving Saturday afternoon at the grocery store today. As I told Beast, that's the traditional reward for grocery shopping.

Patrick's Place

(Link in meme-roll)
Saturday Six

How many times per day do you…
1. …check your email?

My personal email is always open on whatever computer I'm on, including my smartphone, and I keep an eye on the tab to see if anything has come in. My work email is always open at work and on my phone, but I only check it occasionally on my laptop. All of this is to say that I check it obsessively.

2. …send an email?

I sent 14 today, mostly from work. On Thursday I sent 25, also mostly work-related. Yesterday, when I didn't work, I sent one...and it was work-related.

3. …post a tweet or status update on social media?

Far too often. It probably averages two to three times a day.

4. …make a telephone call?

Perhaps 3 times a week. At most.

5. …visit a website to check the news?

Not very often...maybe twice a day on average at most.

6. …drive a car?

I drive to work and back, and usually go somewhere for lunch on those days. I have meetings a couple of times each week in the evenings. The rest of the time is entirely dependent on whether I absolutely HAVE to leave the house.

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
The Blerp Meme

When you get a headache do you take painkillers right away or try to wait it out?

Depends on the type of pain; if I suspect it might bloom into Def-Con 10 eventually, I take the meds early. If it's likely something that can be alleviated by closing my eyes, drinking some water, or otherwise addressing the cause, I try that first. Then again, I just went and got two ibuprofen because my shoulder is killing me--for an unknown reason.

Is there a really funny YouTube video you’d like to recommend to me?

The Hallelujah Monks are back. I haven't watched them this year, but I watched Beast watch them for the first time this week, which was nearly as funny as the actual video.

Did you watch Sesame Street when you were little?

I was just a few days short of six years old when Sesame Street first aired, and had been reading for at least a couple of years, so I was definitely past the target audience. I did watch Electric Company when it first aired.

What’s the last thing you touched, other than your computer?


The buttered bread that constitutes my lunch, which is now in my stomach.

When was the last time you talked to your best friend?


Depends on which one. Either 4 minutes (give or take), several months, or several more months.

How often do you listen to music?


Almost every day at work. Every Sunday at church. Occasionally in the car. Often I'm singing either out loud or in my head.

What color is your cell phone?

The case is silver and blue, like this one.

What is the last non-alcoholic beverage you drank?

I am currently on my second DDP of the day.

Do you like to wear sweatpants?

ONLY at home, and only when relaxing, not in front of People. This, of course, doesn't inclued Beast or Sparky. ;-)

What song are you currently listening to? Who sings it?

Surprisingly--in light of the previous question about music--there's no music in the air right now. However, it is Sunday afternoon in December, so we're watching football, Bears v. Browns and then Packers v. Cowboys. At least with those two games, the decision for whom to cheer (or against whom) is very very clear!

Have you ever gotten a black eye?

I'm...not sure....

What caused it?

In gym class in 8th grade, I got whacked in the face with a softball, which broke my glasses. It may have blackened my eye, but I don't remember. What I do remember is that I could sit out of the rest of softball, and having to wait a week to get my glasses fixed.

How many times have you checked up on your ex?

I Google their names occasionally. One is the brother of one of my Facebook friends, so he pops up unannounced once in awhile. Others have way-too-common names to actually track down.

If you had to get a tattoo what would it be?

I doubt I would ever do this, unless I had an awesome scar to which I'd attach a zipper tab tat.

How many tabs are open right now?

A relatively sedate 5 tabs and three programs in the start bar.

Are you scared of needles?

I'm not scared of them, but watching someone get a shock tends to make me really nauseous, just that moment when the needle starts to pierce the skin. ....shudder, gag....

Do you believe love can last forever?

Yes. Of course it does. It's people who get all fucked up, not love.

Are good-byes easy or hard for you?

Usually hard. Sometimes, though, I don't even notice till later that there was a goodbye.

Would you rather sing or dance?

Sing. I can't really dance, or rather, I don't trust myself to look anything but ridiculous while dancing.

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
The What's What Meme

What is on your bed right now?

As of 20 minutes ago, Beast. I took a nap, my alarm went off at 5--which I read as 5 a.m. and was completely confused for several seconds: "why am I getting up so early??"--I came downstairs, found Beast insensible in his chair, and woke him up enough to get him to bed. This question proves that timing is everything.

What's your favorite word or phrase?

"Don't pick up snakes."

What is the best ice cream flavor?

I would probably murder someone right now if they had a butterscotch malt that they weren't sharing.

Did you wake up smiling this morning?


I don't think I wake up smiling ever, to be honest. I was ok, this morning, but not smiling.

Is there something in your life you used to have, and now miss?

Peace of mind.

What major company would you like to work for?

I wouldn't like to work for any major company at all. I don't like Big Business (although they pay well if you're in management or a union shop).

What time do you wake up on a typical morning?

Sometime between 6:30 and 7:30. Depends on the day. Wednesdays I'm up at 5:30.

What holiday makes you sad?

None of them 'make' me sad. I'm a bit solemn this weekend....

Where does a good night's sleep rank on your priorities?

It's up there with air to breathe and indoor plumbing, for sure.

One song that makes you cry?

"A Mighty Fortress..." reminds me of my dad, even when I haven't been obsessing about him for a week like I do at the beginning of November.

How old was your mom when she had you?

She was 6 weeks short of her 42nd birthday. Dad was a week past his 44th.

When is the last time you went to the beach?

Last month when my brother-in-law Reg was here. We went up to the resort lake north of us and wandered the beach while we waited for our boat tour to board.

What is the most random object around you?

My work keys are still sitting on the table next to me even though I haven't been to work since Tuesday.

What is your favorite sushi?

Sushi is not my thing.

What food do you find disgusting?

Well, sushi is right up there. And liver.

If you could have any type of dog in the world, what would it be?

I'd love a butterscotch lab.

What was the last meal that you made for yourself?

I made corned beef and rice Friday night for dinner, for both of us. Tonight looks like a bagel sandwich in front of the TV.

Is the hard drive on your computer full or getting close to being full?

Hell no!

Are there any songs that you prefer the acoustic version over the regular version?

Many of them. It's easier for me to hear the lyrics without all the electrical input.

Patrick's Place

(Link in meme-roll)
Saturday Six

1. How often do you wake up before your alarm clock goes off?

This depends on your definition of "before." I'm almost always awake at some point before morning; my usual routine is to sleep an hour or two when I first go to sleep, then be awake for up to an hour, then sleep and then maybe wake up once more closer to 3 for awhile. But I almost always am awakened by my alarm when it goes off.

2. On an average morning, how many times do you press the snooze button on your alarm clock?

I try not to do it more than twice, especially if Beast is home. I hate to wake him up completely just because I can't get moving.

3. How many different alarm clocks do you use to make yourself wake up?

Just the one (Bose), unless I'm not sure it's working (power outage or time change)--then I use my phone instead.

4. What activity do you spend the most amount of time on in a normal weekday?

If "on a computer" counts as one activity, I'm doing that 10-12 hours/day minimum.

5. What do you normally spend more time doing: eating, driving, using a computer or watching television?

Aside from driving, I'm usually on the computer when I'm doing any of the other options. And based on the math in question #4, I think "computer" wins by default anyway.

6. If you could have an extra day of the week, how would you most likely spend it?

Sleeping and reading.