Sunday Stealing (x4)

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Complete the Thought (June 15)

1. I wish someone would ...

... empty my house the way I want it emptied without me.

2. When I order Chinese food ...

... I pretty much always get crab rangoon.

3. I know it's not everyone's favorite activity, but I actually enjoy ...

... napping.

5. A major pet peeve of mine is ...

... mispronunciation of common words.

6. I remember when my grandfather ...

(I do not remember either of them: one died 20+ years before I was born, the other I vaguely remember before he died when I was three; I don't remember anything about that)

7. I am not fazed at all by ...

... children trying to con me. Mostly I'm a very soft touch.

8. Long car rides ... 

... put me to sleep. I can't read or do anything but stare out the window, so they're just boring af.

9. I don't understand the fuss over ...

... most of any drama going on in Hollywood/Instagram.

10. When I'm home alone ...

... I'm generally very happy.

Saturday 9

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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.

Saturday 9 x2

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Lazy Bones (1975)
Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) This song is about a guy who'd rather nap than do his chores. Are there things you should be doing right now, instead of hanging around the blogosphere, answering these questions?

Of course. There's ALWAYS something I should be doing. Today's list includes handwashing some dishes, excavating the counters in the kitchen, general vacuuming (pick a floor, any floor)... So I'm blogging.

2) This song mentions a lazy afternoon of fishing. When did you last go fishing?

Sparky was 8. I know because he and his dad caught a fish (ok, it was a minuscule perch that was too small to keep). That was in 2001, at Moosehead Lake.

3) The lyrics catch our hero sleeping in both the sun and the shade. Do you have a nice, shady place to nap on your front lawn? Or would we catch you lying in the sun?

We have shade in the front yard, but the ground there isn't as comfy as the grass in the backyard, where there are no trees.

4) This week's featured artist, Leon Redbone, is a difficult man to nail down. Over the years he's claimed to be born in Ontario, and Philadelphia, and even Cyprus. Tell us about a time you got caught in a fib.

Well, there was the time I called someone an 'asshole' in an email to a mutual friend...and then, much later in the convo, I sent the whole email string to the first person. He's not an asshole, but there was some stupid behavior on display at the moment...oh boy.

5) Mr. Redbone has said that taking himself too seriously would be "the gentle kiss of death." What's something that you always take seriously and just can't joke about?

I wish I could say that I have never told, or laughed at, an off-color or shady joke, but everything I start to type I think of something ridiculous I've said or heard. Sometimes it's pretty black humor, but that is how I cope with life most of the time. I mean, my topics were Child Abuse, Racism, Sexism, Donald Trump....but every one of those topics I can think of absurdities that are just nuts and laughable. Not, "isn't it funny that we hit this kid" funny, but seriously, you really thought no one would notice your KID had DISAPPEARED* from your house?? WTF you fucking moron.

6) He has retired from public life, and that includes his Facebook page, which is no longer available. What did you last post to your Facebook page?

Just before I started on this.

7) Leon always wore dark glasses when he performed. Do your sunglasses have gray, green, brown or rose colored lenses?

They are black, but they're also the kind the change from regular glasses to dark in the sun.

8) Recently Dick Van Dyke performed this song at a charity benefit, aided by his a capella quartet, The Vantastix. Last year, at age 90, he campaigned for Bernie Sanders. So Mr. Van Dyke is certainly not a "lazy bones." Who's the most active, energetic person in your life?

There's a woman at my church who is coming up on 80 who is more physically vigorous than pretty much anyone I know, of ANY age. She is astounding. I would have guessed she was closer to 60 at most--only because of her gray hair and some general wrinkliness--but in conversation over the winter she mentioned that her husband was turning 80 (which is equally hard to believe) this year and she's not far behind. They own an apple orchard so they work, physically, every day. Amazing.

9) Random question: You're at dinner with friends and someone begins a very long joke with, "Stop me if you've heard this before." You have heard it, many times before. Do you stop him? Or do you just sit through it again?

Depends on the person. And the joke. If it's a rude joke, like beyond the pale for other hearers, I'll stop them. If it's just a tired old stupid story, I'll probably sit through it again. I've been doing that my whole entire life, after all. Sometimes it sucks being the youngest....

_____
*Local dude moved to a new house with his family, minus one pre-teen daughter. Somehow police got involved back in the old neighborhood--not sure if new residents in home called or what--and the authorities found remains in the garage, which had been there at least several weeks (into months' time). Dude's full of excuses about what could have possibly happened. Same dude told people earlier, prior to moving, that he was going to "get rid" of the girl into fostering or adoption or "whatever." Seriously? I have to laugh to think that someone is THIS STUPID! If I don't laugh, I'm going to want to slit my wrists over the fact that I'm breathing the same air as people like this.


C Is for Cookie
Don't blame Sam. Harriet requested Cookie Monster.
Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) This week's featured artist, Cookie Monster says his favorite TV show is Monsterpiece Theater. What show do you try never to miss?

We DVR Deadliest Catch, all the NCIS shows and a few things that Beast watches without me (Bill Maher, car shows). I may see about getting Graham Norton on the schedule. I need some silliness.

2) Though he goes by Cookie Monster professionally, he is still called Sid by his family. When will you next get together with your relatives?

I have no idea. Thanksgiving for sure. We might see the locals (Katherine, Alan and the boys) this summer. I'm not planning more than about a week at a time--at most!!--these days.

3) Now for the cookie questions! Where do you weigh in on this age-old controversy: Is a brownie a cookie or a cake?

Cake. Never really thought about it, but I make them in a cake pan. On the other hand, given any way of doing so, I make cookies in cake pans too. SO much faster!

4) Fig Newtons contain no cholesterol. Do you read nutrition labels before eating snacks? Or does knowing the truth about your favorite sweets ruin your enjoyment?

Everything I think tastes good is bad for me at this point. Except almonds and walnuts and fruit.

5) Biscotti are designed for dipping into drinks. Do you like to dunk your cookies?

Yuck.

6) Do you prefer cookies made with milk chocolate chips, dark chocolate chips or semi-sweet chocolate chips? Or are you a rebel who prefers butterscotch chips?

I love love love butterscotch cookies! I'm ok with whatever chocolate is used, though I'm not a giant fan of them, though they are yummy right out of the oven.

7) Bill Murray once said, "Raisin cookies that look like chocolate chip cookies are the main reason I have trust issues." Do you like raisin cookies?

I LOVE oatmeal-raisin cookies! My mom's were the best ever. ...sigh

8) Nabisco still sells animal-shaped cookies in a red box that looks like a train car labeled, "Barnum's Animals." However Ringling Brothers and Barnum and Bailey Circus gave their last-ever performance on May 21, 2017. Have you ever been to the circus?

I've been twice to Ringling Brothers, once to the Moscow Circus and I think I was at a couple small traveling circuses in my life. I wasn't particularly thrilled with the American circuses for various reasons, but the bears in Moscow were amazing.

9) Have you ever received a memorable fortune in a fortune cookie?

Not that I recall. I keep some of them for awhile, but they haven't been life-changing. However, in the midst of answering these questions, we were talking about dinner and the subject of Chinese takeout was raised (by Beast). Maybe tonight's the night I'll get that killer fortune, eh?

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
Don't Sleep in the Subway (1967)*
Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) Subways can be bright and noisy. Do you need it dark and quiet before you can fall asleep?

It helps, but I fell asleep in a doctor's waiting room yesterday waiting with Beast. For, like half an hour.

2) In this song, Petula encourages her lover to talk it out instead of walking out. Do you usually remain reasonable during a disagreement?

Ah, no. I'm quite Mediterranean in that respect.

3) Petula was a child star in England during WWII. Her BBC broadcasts were very popular with the British troops, who nicknamed her The Singing Sweetheart. Soldiers pasted her photo onto their tanks for luck as they went into battle. Do you have any little rituals or good luck charms that calm/comfort you when you're afraid?

In the past year or so, I've developed a tendency to moderate panic attacks. Does that count? They aren't particularly calming. If I'm alone and something scares me, I tend to talk to myself.

4) Now 84, she recently told London's Daily Mail that she's surprised and thrilled to have found love again with a new man. Do you believe you'll ever be too old for romance?

Romance? Maybe. Love? Never.

5) Her family is far flung. She lives in London, her middle daughter is in Paris, her son is in Los Angeles and her oldest daughter lives in New York with Petula's two grandchildren. Who is your nearest friend or relative? Which one is farthest away?

My nearest friend is next door. I'm seriously blessed by GREAT neighbors who are also friends. Farthest away ... oh, yeah: Argentina. Former coworker moved back home a few years ago. My two oldest nephews (James and Don) and my 2nd niece (Katherine) live about equidistant from me: she is southeast, he is northeast about 45 miles. Sparky's about 60 miles more or less straight north. Furthest away is, I guess, Rosellen who just moved to Peterborough in the U.K.

6) In 1967, when this song was popular, Rolling Stone published its first issue. John Lennon was on the cover. Publisher Jann Wenner reports that, either individually or as a group, the members of The Beatles have appeared on the most Rolling Stone covers. What's the first Beatles song that comes to mind?

"Love Me Do"

7) In 1967, Star Trek was in its second season on NBC. Who is your favorite Star Trek character?

In TOS, it's Bones. My all-time favorite, though, is Picard.

8) RANDOM QUESTION: When you slip into jeans or slacks, which foot do you put in first?

Right.

9) As you considered #8, did you mime pulling on your pants?

Nope, but only because I've been asked this question before. I now make a point of trying to start with the other leg first once in awhile.

_____________
*I actually heard this song on the radio this week. How weird.

Friday 5

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Ssssssh!

1. What’s something sneaky you’ve recently done?

   I don't do much sneaky stuff anymore. Maybe eating junk food?

2. Who or what do you feel the need to tiptoe around?

   I've gotten far more careful about everything I say at work to my coworkers. It's sad. But necessary.

3. What’s the dirty secret about the field in which you work?

   Most people who go into library work seem to be slightly deranged.

4. What was the subject or your last whispered conversation?

   It was, undoubtedly, something snarky during yesterday's meeting at work.

5. What’s recently snuck up on you?

   End-of-budget-year is April 30. I'm so not ready to deal with "next year."

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 Icebreaker Questions

1. Are you loud, outgoing or shy?

Yes.
I am all of the above at different times. In fact, I am the loudest librarian you've probably met. I can be very outgoing. However, the Real Me is quite shy and fearful.

2. What’s coming up where you’ll see an old friend?

.....I got nothing. I'm not even sure we're going to have a vacation this year, so unless said "old friend" comes to me, I'm gonna just be sitting here with my current friends. Of course, I have some current friends who are old.... Am I overthinking this question??

3. Are you easy to get along with?

I think so. Usually. Unless you're stupid or flat-out obnoxious.

4. Have you ever given up on someone, but then gone back to them?

I give up on people regularly, but I have a hard time holding myself to the vow to drop them. That's getting easier, but I've only gone "back" to a boyfriend once. It was a mistake.

5. Who was the last person that you had a deep conversation with?

There were a few of those at church this morning. With Sue, with Beast, with Sunday school people, with Sally, with Lee, with Gary....

6. Are you okay with being in a big crowd?

How big? Like a couple hundred people in a church or concert or theatre? Sure. Anything much more than that, then no. I really wanted to go to one of the marches yesterday, but holy shit I would have been hyperventilating the entire time. I don't even enjoy traveling as much as I used to because of the crowds in airports and so forth.

7. Do you believe in luck and/or miracles?

I do. Not in the "buy a lotto ticket" kind of luck. I've witnessed miracles and there is literally no earthly reason I'm still alive after a couple specific events.

8. What good thing happened during the summer? (It’s good to think about summer when you are freezing your butt off in January.)

My feet were warm. I miss that these days.

9. Do you think there is life on other planets?

Sure. I mean, why not?

10. Who was your first crush on?

First first was David Cassidy. I was, probably, 8. At most. I remember kissing an album cover. It's been downhill since then. ;-)

11. What are your bad habits?

Nailbiting. Making assumptions. Trying to answer rhetorical questions. Trusting people. Sarcasm. Lack of attentiveness.

12. What’s your favorite part of your daily routine?

Going to bed to read before sleep.

13. Other than your significant other, who are you most comfortable with?

Well, that's a rather ginormous assumption you've got going there... heh OK, I'm qute comfortable with myself. I guess Sparky is in there too. Not really many others, even my besties. See question #1.

14. Has an ex ever told you that they regret breaking up?

Yup. See question #4.

15. Why should your celebrity crush drop everything to be with you?

That would ruin everything!!

16. What would be the hardest to give up and why? Books. TV. Music.

Books. Or, actually, maybe music. I could write and then read my own stuff or read cereal boxes and magazines, but I gotta be able to sing.

17. Do you believe in second chances?

Yes and thank GOD for them, no??

18. What would like to do next in your life?

I'd feel better about answering this if Beast was contributing to the household income.

19. What’s the meanest thing that anyone has ever said to you?

Really? My co-teacher said something at Sunday school today about being as old as Moses today. My co-teacher is older than me, so I just gaped at him. [it was a joke, a lousy one] EVER though? Wow, so many things. Several of them said by my son in angry moments.

20. What’s the nicest thing that anyone has ever said to you?

Many years ago now, in the middle of a conversation about something entirely different, Beast said to me that one of the things he most admires (admired?) about me is how kind I am to others.

Sunday Stealing

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

1. Which is worse? Being gossiped about or being lied to?

I work with mostly women. I hate to be sexist, but gossip is EV'rywhere there. I'm pretty much over it, have been for years, but I really hate being lied to. That's been a peeve of mine since high school when my bestiest friend--with whom I'd been friends for a decade at that point--suddenly began to spout ridiculous lies about everything imaginable. Her parents were going through a rough patch, had separated, and I thought at the time the lying was a reaction to that. I still think so, but anyway, the lying drove me nuts. It was just pointless: dates she didn't go on, guys she hooked up with (that she did not, and no, I didn't ask the guys--I knew), prizes she won, diseases she'd been diagnosed with.... She eventually stopped, but I should've paid closer attention: she let me down over and over since then, a couple of times were just enormously hurtful things.
Wow. OK, moving on with my life now. :)

2. What is your favorite "Starbucks" drink? Or if you have better taste, Dunkin’Donuts?

I don't drink coffee in any version, I don't like hot chocolate, and frankly I'd rather have a bottle of pop over high-priced tea.

3. Name an embarrassing moment (Make it good).

Hmm. There are SO MANY from which to choose... I've been reliving that awesome moment in 4th grade lately, when we were playing some tag game in gym class and I ran full-tilt into the side of the school (which was home base) because I was watching behind me to see if I was going to get tagged. Bam, knee first into bricks. I'm pretty sure I bounced. I know the gym teacher had at least two other kids walk me to the nurse's office. I think I probably whacked my head too, but I don't remember that, just all the blood on my leg and the resulting scar. And the total mortification of being such a klutz. A young (teenaged) friend of mine attempted a major league move in gym class last week that ended up with his nose meeting at full tilt. He had to have surgery Friday.

4. Is it hard for you to ask some to forgive you when you have wronged them?

Yes. The worse the behavior the harder to ask.

4. Who do you wish you could meet?

I'm really hoping that once the Obamas get back to my neck of the woods, I have an opportunity to meet Michelle. Or at least perhaps hear her speak live.

5. Best food comes from which country?

Whichever one you're in at the time. Fresh is truly best.

6. Do you like small talk, or deep conversations?

Both have their place in day-to-day life. I probably lean toward preferring deep conversations, but I'm easy.

7. Who do you most want to encourage this year?

Those feeling unwelcome in the U.S. these days.

8. If those who know you best gave you one piece of advice, what would they say? Would they be right? What will you do about it?

All the advice I listen to involves words like "detachment," "compartmentalization," "let go, let God," or "checking in." All good advice, and mostly stuff I listen to and try to put into practice.

9. How often do you get real sick?

"Real" sick? Not very often, thank goodness.

10. Are you a person who has a whole lot of acquaintances, or just a few very close friends?

Yep.

11. If you could cure a disease, or heal a sickness, which one would you choose?

I would happy to knock Parkinson's Disease right off the list of Horrifying Things That the Body Does.

12. What was your favorite book of 2016?

I've read some great books this year. The best non-fiction was Pastrix: The Cranky, Beautiful Faith of a Sinner & Saint by Nina Bolz-Weber. Best fiction...is harder...but I'll go with The Home for Wayward Clocks, by Kathie Giorgio.

13. What was one of your biggest accomplishments in 2016?

Surviving. Growing, even.

14. If you could be guaranteed a spot on the reality show "Survivor", would you go?

Not even on a guarantee of BILLION-dollar prize.

15. Which is worse? Shopping for Jeans or a bathing suit?

I don't own, and probably will never again own, a swimsuit, so the default answer has to be jeans. But they aren't that big of a deal to shop for, because (again) I'm not fussy.

16. How old was your oldest living relative (still living or in the past)? [editor's note: I haven't got a clue as to what this question means either. That's why it's perfect...]

Both of my grandmothers lived well into their 90s. If that's even close to a coherent interpretation of this question.

And a Merry Question #4 to all!

Sunday Stealing x3

(Link in meme-roll)
The Alice Through the Looking Glass Meme

If your life was a book, what would be its title?

Plot? What Plot? seems about right.

Who is/was the weirdest person in your life?

I see weird people DAILY. You want weird coworkers, weird family members, weird members of the public, weird neighbors? I have someone--at least one person--in each category. Mostly, I enjoy Teh Weeerd. Sometimes, it makes me want to punch walls. Today was about half and half.

What is a special thing that someone once did for you?

I think the trick here is to notice the special things more than it is to expect big gestures of love from people. Possibly the nicest thing someone's done for me this week is driving me from work to pick up Beast after he had a diabetic situation Friday night. But the flight attendants on the plane, the car driver, and others I don't even know about were spectacularly on-point last Monday on our trip home from vacation.

If you could erase someone off the planet, who would it be?

My first reaction was political. Instead I'll just say that I'm not going to be sad when Crazy Cat Woman retires from my workplace in less than a month.

What’s a big goal that you have?

I have never been a Big Goal person. I'd like to retire someday. That's looking more and more like it will be some fairy-tale distance away.

If you could time travel and meet yourself at 16, what would you tell yourself?

Like I would listen to someone my age at 16?? I'd probably just pat myself on the back and suggest being a little more careful around booze and people who love it.

If it were the last day of your life, how would you spend it?

With kids. It would be wonderful to just sit around and play with some toddlers or babies, read them some books, get some sticky hugs and kisses...what a way to go.

If you could meet any celebrity, who would it be and why?

I would kind of like to meet Tammy Duckworth. She seems like the kind of straight shooter in person that I like in public office. I'd like to tell her that not only do I appreciate her service in the military, but I appreciate her service to our country since she came back home.

What is one thing that you would never do that others you know have done?

I'm pretty sure that I'll never drive drunk.

What is one romance depicted in film that you’d love to experience?

Wow. Uhm. I'm not much of a romance-watcher. The Tracy-Hepburn dynamic, though, that is fun.

Describe yourself in just one sentence.

"O.M.G." (and not in any theological sense)

Who is the most beautiful person on earth?

Really, any random newborn is pretty awesome. It may be the last time we are every fully ourselves, right after birth, before we start wearing other peoples' expectations.

What was the best experience in your life?

I've had a lot of good experiences. One of the best was getting my mom giggling during church in the middle of quiet prayer and then both of us giggling through the Lord's Prayer. It was strange, epic, and 100% unlikely.

If you could rule the world, what would you change?

So . Many . Things. Certain famous people who talk bullshit will be wearing a lot of duct tape over their mouths until they learn how to STFU when they have nothing productive to say.

Where were you when you heard the news of 9/11?

At church. Beast called while I was doing some volunteer work. I got in the car and turned on the radio while I headed home, turned on the TV when I got there and got a call from our brand-new pastor who had no TV service. So I watched the second tower fall with him and his wife, who was totes panicking: "I need to go to the grocery store! We need to stock up on food!"

+ + + + + + + + +

The Martial Arts Meme

Who was the last person that you held hands with?

Beast. Yesterday, I think.

Are you loud, outgoing or shy?

Yup. All of the above on varying occasions.

Who are you looking forward to see[ing]?

I can't think of anyone I'm desperate to see. I just finally met all but one of my great-nephews and -nieces, so it would be nice to see the only remaining unmet one. I'm not sure about going to Texas anytime soon though, and my understanding is that his parents are perhaps not together anymore. This makes me sad, but I'm treating it as rumor till I hear from someone definitively.

Are you easy to get along with?

Usually. Unless you're an idiot. Then I might be a little hard on you.

Have you ever given up on someone, only to let them back into your lives? Why?

Yes. Once. I shoulda stuck to my guns, but fortunately it wasn't a huge waste of time.

If you were ill, which TV doctor or nurse would you want to take care of you?

Honestly, if I were terrifically and suddenly ill, Johnny Gage's presence at my side in the ambulance could probably manage to put me back on the road to health before even arriving at the ER.

Does talking about sex make you uncomfortable?

Yes, it does. I'm so my parents' kid. Having admitted that, I tried very hard to keep my personal ooshiness out of sight whenever Sparky was in need of straight talk. The need to be honest definitely trumped the prude in me.

Who was the last person that you had serious conversation with?

Beast, after I got home from work today. Life is fraught right now and sometimes emotions boil over.

What was the last text message you received about?

Last Fbook PM: "Fair. :P I've just started throwing 'yins' into casual conversation."
Last text: "Yea. She makes a good date."
Last Google Hangout: "Almost got a ticket for not using hands free"
WhatsApp: "Haha! Guess that's a nice sort of problem to have?"
Not one is from the same person and they are all completely unrelated issues, but there is some sense of continuity there.

Do you believe in luck and/or miracles?

I completely believe in miracles! My life is full of them. Luck too, mostly of the good variety. I have to say, though, that this is another case of seeing what you look for and getting back from life what you put out into the world.

What good thing happened this summer?

Uhm. It was not exactly a stellar summer. I found some serenity and some freedom. Sparky got out of a lousy roommate situation and into a new apartment of his own. And then a EEEUUUGGGE implosion for Beast at the end of summer from which we'll be recovering for quite awhile. We still haven't seen all the final ramifications as yet. So I'm learning some more about patience, too.

Convince us why we should or should not believe in life on other planets?

You can believe whatever you want, as far as I'm concerned. Until we actually find life in space, you have that option. I find it hard to believe that we're alone, as big as the universe is, but I also doubt extraterrestrial life will look anything like us, should we ever run into it.

Who was your first crush on?

David Cassidy. I was 9. Or maybe 8.

Favorite part of daily routine?

Washing my face, brushing my teeth, putting on pajamas, and climbing into bed with my Nook to read or puzzle.

Do you like your neighbors?

Of the ones I know, all but one are good people. We have some new people we haven't met yet. And the neighborhood Dirty Old Man is (YAY!) moving. Or at least the house is for sale.

What’s your worst feature?

My teeth. They are really getting yellow as I age. :(

Have you ever had trust issues?

Huh. Not until the last few years. I'm still horribly gullible, though.

+ + + + + + + + +

The "Doing Questions Like It's 2003" Meme

Tell us about your pets. If you don’t have one, share why you don’t.

We have one lazy little guinea pig named Pinto. He's a cutie, but he will be the last. I'm retiring my zoological chores when he dies.

Name three things that are close to you.

Physically close? I'm surrounded by heaps of stuff that have accrued as I unpacked last week. There are three things here I need to mail tomorrow, a book about the discovery of Richard III (brought home from vacation), and a half a liter of Diet Coke that I've been working on all afternoon.

How was the weather for your summer?

It was good. Too muggy here at the end, but I can't complain about the temperatures: they never got wildly out-of-control hot.

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

We went and saw the last Star Trek movie when it came out. It was ok. I like the original timeline better.

Tell us about the last trip that you took.

We just got back last Monday from visiting my English family and attending the wedding of my nephew there. He was married in Bristol in probably the weirdest and yet the most fun wedding I've ever attended. Then we spent about a week driving to my nieces' homes in northern and central England and meeting and getting to know their kids. The weather was wonderful, and the kids were great, and it was good to see people I haven't been able to spend time with in 5 years.

Where do you buy groceries? Why?

Meijer, mostly, and increasingly Aldi. And a local standalone grocery. And a local chain that's only in the immediate metropolitan area in which I live. Mostly in that order.

Tell us something that you did today. Or will do if you haven’t had your morning coffee yet.

I worked. Today was Crazy Cat Woman's and Supplies' last Sunday to work before they retire. I'm sad that Supplies is going--in spite of her politics being 180 from mine, I've really come to like and admire her--but CCW can't leave soon enough. Anyway, I found the provenance of an unusual photo of JFK and Jackie for a patron. That was fun.

Have you pulled an all-nighter?

Kinda did that a couple of weeks ago on the flight to England. I might've gotten an hour of sorta-sleep on the plane. Maybe. At most. Before that was probably the last overseas flight, or staying up with family emergencies.

Can you taste the difference between Pepsi & Coke?

Yep.

Tell us about your siblings. How many and what do they do?

Tell ya what. Here's my family. Go read. It's current. This is not a question I love answering.

What’s the oldest thing that you own?

Several pieces of furniture. My grandparents' china (boxed in the basement). Some books that are well over 100 years old--nothing fancy or worth money, I hasten to add!

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.

Sunday Stealing

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

76. What is the best advice you’ve ever been given?

I probably wasn't listening to the absolute best that was given, but "Trust yourself" is pretty close to the top of what I remember.

77. Is it easier to forgive or forget?

Much easier to forget. SOOOOOoooo much easier!

78. First mobile phone?

I didn't get one till about 10-12 years ago. Maybe 2002?

79. Strangest dream?

I have strange dreams nearly every night. No, actually, I'm sure have have strange dreams EVERY night, but I remember only the ones in which I'm enmeshed when the alarm wakes me.

80. Best dream?

See above. I have some really awesomely funny weird dreams....

81. Who is the smartest person you know?

Depends on what we're measuring. Book-smart? Experience-smart? Emotional-smart? I know an awful lot of very smart people, for whom and for which I'm ever-thankful.

82. Who is the prettiest person on you know?

It's rare for me to run across someone I can't find some sort of beauty in. There are very few truly ugly people out there, even the ones whose exterior isn't easy on the eyes.

83. Do you miss anyone right now?

Yes. Always. It ebbs and flows and right now the tap is WIIIIIDE open.

84. Who do you love? Why?

I'm trying to work on loving everyone. It's not easy.

85. Do you like sharing?

I'm the Queen of Sharing, which is also something I'm working on, and also not easy to change.

86. What was the last picture you took with your phone?

I posted this to Facebook last Wednesday. Yes I'm a little behind on the origami calendar.....

87. Is there a reason behind everything that happens?

Sure. Or at the very least a teachable moment.

88. Favorite genre of music?

"Good"--I like lots of genres, including classic rock, heavy metal, rap, R&B, country, folk, indie, Christian, Middle-Eastern, funk, old pop (like Sinatra, Crosby, Clooney, Lee), Afro-pop, reggae, ska, house, what my dad called "long-hair music" (a.k.a. "Classical)....

89. If you had one word to describe yourself, what would it be?

"Unfinished."

90. Describe your life in 5 words.

"I don't have a clue."

91. Craziest thing you’ve ever done?

Crazy from whose standpoint? Mine when I did it, or looking back on it? Craziest thing I can think of that turned out great and that I never have regretted is going to college 1000 miles from home. In so many ways, that's when my real life started.

92. First three songs in your favorite playlist?

The first three I added to my starred list on Spotify are "Lullabye (Goodnight, My Angel)" by Billy Joel, "Fadeaway" by Da Bodeans, and "Black, White, Tan" by Nicole Mullen. Alphabetically by author (and omitting bands starting with numbers), it's "Wake Up" by Aaradhna, "My Savior My God" by Aaron Shust, and "Dancing Queen" by ABBA. Alpha by title (and omitting numbered song titles): "The A Team" by Ed Sheeran, "ABC" by the Jackson 5, and "Ackee 1-2-3" by The English Beat. That gives you a fair approximation of what my headphones sounds like at work.

93. Are you more creative or logical?

I'm more logical most of the time.

94. Would you rather lie or hurt someone with the truth?

I'm too honest by far about answering people's questions, though I have learned a tiny bit of tact over the years.

95. What are you most proud of?

The growth I've accomplished over the past few years in delineating boundaries, in forgiving myself and others for being human, and for standing my ground.

96. What personality trait do you admire in other people?

Joy.

97. When you imagine yourself as really, really relaxed and happy, what are you doing?

Sleeping. hah OK, or playing with kids. Or reading in the sun.

98. How do you usually start a conversation?

"Hi" usually works for me. Not real creative (see #93), is it? Often I open a conversation with a question: "Can you help me?" "What's your name?" "How do you know [the host or whoever got me there]?" Simple is better.

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.

Friday 5

(Link in meme-roll)
Symbol

1. Which of the standard keyboard symbols best describes your mood right now?

   ...
   I'm so freakin' tired. I literally spent the morning propping my eyelids open with my fingers. I'll be in bed by 8 at this rate. No clue what my problem is.

2. On your brand-new family coat-of-arms, created right now whether you already have one or not, what animal is the central figure, representing the spirit and character of your family?

   Hyena? We're scavengers, with weird senses of humor, loud laughs and big mouths.

3. In what ways is your vehicle symbolic of you?

   It's frequently messy and disorganized inside, but not riotously gross.

4. What charms, figurines, or objects do you keep at hand to remind you of something or someone?

   I don't really do this. I have some of my mom's socks and a couple of shirts of my dad's. Nothing much from my sisters, which is disappointing. Most recently I left a note taped to the back of my keyboard at work that says, "Nope. Don't do it. No chit-chat." I'm done. The last two days, once again, I can't say anything right to people there so I'm done talking. Fuckin' leave me alone; I have enough stress in my home life and I definitely do not need more at work.

5. What song lyric best sums up your feelings heading into the weekend?

   "Take this job and shove it."--Johnny Paycheck
   I actually heard that on Spotify today; there's a playlist called "I Hate My Job" and yeah.....

Friday 5

(Link in meme-roll)
Fresh Catch

1. What were your feelings the last time you stood on a scale?

   Well, they weren't happy. But I was at the doctor's so I was also a bit distracted by the nurse talking to me.

2. In what ways are you old schoool [sic]{hee}, and in what ways are you new school?

   I'm old school financially and in some respects spiritually and morally. I'm into new technology and like trying new things. I try to weigh things on their merits not on their history.

3. What big event is coming down the pike for you?

   My son is moving into his own apartment in two weeks. It probably is a bigger deal than it feels like. So much that I know that he doesn't know he needs to know....

4. In which social situations do you thrive, and in which do you flounder?

   I like social situations that involve word-play and intelligent conversation. I suck at social niceties and small talk and gossip.

5. When was the last time a fad hooked you?

   Oh, probably yesterday. This week. Recently. I'm kind of a sucker for fads. I can't think of what it would be, unless it's a new song or a phrase. I've been using What the Actual Fuck? a lot lately.

More from Amy

(This Amy)

1. Have you ever been admitted to hospital?

   Yes. Aside from being born, which I wouldn't really call "admission," I've been on the rolls as a patient three times: childbirth, abdominal surgery, and parathyroid surgery. I suppose, since I go to the hospital for lab tests regularly, those could count too. Oh, hey: I spent last Saturday night sleeping in the hospital too! Sleep study. Freaky-weird.

2. Have you ever had any brushes with the law?

   I've gotten one speeding ticket and have been involved in three accidents in my life, one of which resulted in a ticket. Otherwise, my mom worked for the county court, so whenever I visited her at work, I saw cops, and once barely avoided a (legit) ticket because the cop that stopped me knew Mom. [I did not ask to be excused; I really should have gotten cited--it was a stupid, stupid mistake and could have been fatal. The cop was practically spitting in anger.] And I see cops fairly regularly at work because of situations that arise there. I also had to go with Mom at least once when she was subbing for a bail bondsperson...yay sitting in chairs outside the county lockup while she did paperwork. I was about 7.

3. Can you solve Sudoko puzzles?

   Yes, yes I can. Very relaxing, and I like the electronic version(s) best.

4. What's the most unusual conversation you've ever had?

   There are the weird conversations that develop with close friends and family that involve giggle fits. Then there are the truly bizarre and often a little terrifying conversations with crazy people at work. I had a hilarious, giggle-inducing conversation with a patron yesterday that was incomprehensible and impossible to explain except that it included goofball offspring, lemurs, the children's librarian's situation at storytime on Tuesday, helicopter parents, Morgan Freeman, and early-onset forgetfulness. The woman's daughter thought we were insane--and then she started giggling too, while made me nearly cry with laughter. Good times.

5. Do you prefer liquid soap or bars of soap?

   I don't think we have a single bar of soap in the house except the stuff Beast brings home from hotels that goes into Christmas Child boxes. Which I need to start sorting out.

6. How do you have your eggs?

   The edible version? If so, scrambled soft with LOTS of salt. Or over easy with lots of lightly toasted and buttered wheat bread. Can you tell I eat in diners a lot? I know how to order. If not edible...my eggs are all gone, probably via medical incinerator.

7. Do you often read your horoscope?

   If it's the only thing in front of me, I'll read it. And then, invariably, snort. I used to create star charts for people back in the day, but I mostly liked it for the methodical, mathematical graphing functions. The "meanings" are ridiculous. Except, I do have a bit of a scorpion sting sometimes....

8. Have you ever had a proper Tarot reading?

   It would be interesting. I've always wanted to go in to someplace like that and flat out lie and see if they caught me.

9. What's the ultimate cake topping?

   Lots and lots of butter-and-powdered sugar frosting. Like, LOTS of it.

10. Do you suck or bite lollipops?

    Suck till small, then chew up the last bit. But I hardly ever eat hard candy like that anymore. It happens when people's teeth get old....I used to chew on ice too, but that has fallen away as well.

11. Do you prefer to wash in the mornings or evenings?

    Wash what? I wash my face morning and bedtime. I shower in the mornings (or really anytime as long as I've got a few hours before sleep so my hair can dry). I bathe--when I have time for a soak--before bed. I do laundry....whenever it needs doing. I wash dishes when they need washing. I wash my car in the mornings, preferably. This is a weird question.

12. Have you ever danced in the rain?

    I used to love to play in the rain as a kid. Then I got glasses. It's just not fun to wear glasses in the rain.

13. Have you ever sworn at an authority figure?

    In anger? As in "F off you motherf'ing f'tard!"? No. I was in a rather, uhm, tense discussion with my boss yesterday during which I used the word "bullshit" multiple times, but I wasn't exactly saying it TO him. The phrase I recall repeating was "I don't like hearing that kind of bullshit when...." But I don't remember EVER absolutely going off, straight up, on ANY authority figure since that one day in 1983 when Mom & I got into it over her lunch break from work. I tend to manage to keep hold of the shreds of sanity enough to know it's a bad idea to terminally infuriate the people who can fuck you over with a simply finger-snap.

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
Anyday Meme

1. What is your dream career, and what path do you plan to take to get there?

I'm in it, and I take the same path to it every morning. Unless I detour past McD's for a large diet Coke.

2. Who do you aspire most to be like?

Do I sound like a lunatic if my answer is "Jesus"?

3. What do you like in a best friend?

Someone who likes me, who has a sense of humor and a sense of boundaries.

4. Do you currently have any squishes (people you really want to be best friends with)?

There are some people I'd like to get to know better, but as much as I like the concept of 'squishes' I don't think I have any right now.

5. What is your ideal platonic relationship?

Hanging out laughing, doing nothing much, talking about books and people and Important Things.

6. Best late night IM/phone conversation story.

I don't really do late-night stuff--too busy sleeping. Unless you count the call I made to neighbors last month at 3 a.m. because my house was flooding and Beast was bleeding.

7. List one person you’d like to wear the sweater of, one person you’d like to bake cookies with, and one person you’d like to drive around and get lost with. (can be celebrities or fictional characters, has to be three different people and not all the same person)

I would love to still have one of my dad's sweaters, unwashed, that smelled of him. I'll bake cookies--or just eat cookie dough!!--with Amy and/or Jenny. Getting lost would be fun on my own, or with Sparky if I'm feeling mean--he HATES being lost!

8. Describe your current best friend(s).

If you do a search on the blog for "best friends" you'll find many descriptions of them. I'm rather fiercely loyal to my besties; the list hasn't changed.

9. What is a strange, little-known fact about you?

I do my own pedicures. Only had about three "professional" ones in my life.

10. What is a career you wanted to have when you were younger, and still kind of want to have now?

Does "Grandma" count?

11. If you could have tea and pleasant conversation with one person, who would it be?

Dorothy Parker.

12. If you had a time machine, what era would you go to?

I'd like to go whenever it meant that I'd have a) absolutely equal rights with men, and b) meds that would make my dog allergies moot.

13. What celebrity or historical figure would you love to have as your best friend and why?

I think Jennifer Garner would be fun to hang out with.

14. What fictional character would you love to have as your best friend and why?

Laura Ingalls and I are already best buds.

15. If you could have one wish, what would it be (cannot be related to romance or sex)?

World peace and justice. I know, but really....can't we just stop fighting for awhile??

16. If you were trapped on a deserted island and could only take one item, what would it be?

A rescue flare.

17. If you could pick one career other than the one you are pursuing/plan to pursue, what would it be?

Professional sleeper.

[and with that answer, I keeled over on the sofa and slept for an hour]

18. What is your best memory you have with a friend?

Awkward-wording much? I have a lot of great friend memories. Let's go with my best friend in junior high/high school walking to my house after school one day and rolling around in hysterics shouting my middle name. ... I have no idea.

19. Do you have any peculiar interests that most people don’t know about?

I love reading about early church history, the history of the era of Jesus, and how Christianity got started.

20. What were your favorite childhood toys? Do you still have them?

I have one little stuffed pink mouse from my childhood, and my Raggedy Anne doll. Neither is in good shape. RI shouldn't be doused in perfume, for one thing.

21. Favorite baked good?

Oh, no, I'm not playing favorites here! I love them all.

22. If your best friend were here right now, what would you do with them (cannot list best friend as your romantic/sexual partner) ?

There would be giggling. That's all I'm saying.

23. Who would you love to play video games with?

Someone who sucks only slightly less than I do at them. Which excludes almost everyone I know under 40 (and a few over 40).

24. If you could visit any country, which one would it be?

I would like to see Egypt before I die.

25. Are there any friends you miss having around?

All of them.

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
The Sizzle Says Meme

1. If money were no object, what would you be doing with your life?

I would love to travel for months at a time, all over the place by train, by mobile home, by plane, by car. I'm not fussy. But I want to be able to stay for awhile in one place and really dig deep in local stuff.

2. Money is just that - an object, so why aren’t you doing it?

That is an excellent question...

3. What’s better: horses or cows?

Depends: better for what? Horses to ride and as companions. Cows for milk and dinner and heavy labor.

4. What do you think the secret to happiness is?

Being confident in and true to yourself and having good friends who will be honest and have fun with you.

5. When was the last time you had a dream that you either remember well or did not want to awake from? Can you share a bit?

I've had some weirdly realistic stress dreams about work and my boss lately. It's not always easy to separate the dream from reality, which makes work a little weird till I do a quite double-check.

6. When you were a little kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

Alive. [I've answered this a million times on this blog. Feel free to search.]

7. Complete this statement: Love is…

...ALWAYS having to say you're sorry! (and meaning it)

8. Can you tell a good story?

I can. And do.

9. Can you remember your last daydream? What was it about?

I don't daydream, unless you mean dreams-during-naps. Which I'm hoping for once this meme is done. I hear a pillow calling my name.....

10. If you were to thank someone today, who would you thank?

I thank people every day. Don't you? I thanks the kids in Sunday School this morning, and the waitress at breakfast, and Beast for paying for breakfast... But realistically: thank you to my friends, those of you I know without a doubt have got my back, no matter what. I need that solid foundation right now.

11. If you could be anyone's mojo, whose would you want to be, and why? (For those you do not know what mojo is, it's personal magnetism; charm.)

Wait, am I "being" the mojo or the person? If it's the person, it's my nephew James since he seems fairly indestructible.

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
Already Gone
If you're not familiar with today's song, you can hear it here.

1) Eagles lead singer Glenn Frey proclaims that he's "feeling strong." How would you describe yourself this fine Saturday?

I'm a little strong-smelling, probably, due to the incredible humidity today. And I'm feeling very much like a loser and not strong in a good way at all because of events earlier in the day.

2) The song begins with a rumor: "I heard some people talking just the other other day ..." Have you heard anything juicy/interesting lately? Please share!

All kinds of shit...that I can't share. Sorry.
I try hard not to gossip in the sense of 'spreading rumors'--when I notice I am, I stop.

3) When "Already Gone" was popular, the news was dominated by Richard Nixon and the Watergate scandal. What do you consider today's top news story?

What SHOULD be the top story is the number of people injured/killed with firearms every single day in this country. Maybe I'm more aware than the average American since I live near a city current in the news for its high death rate. It seems to mostly be "collateral damage"--kids, teachers, etc. And we aren't doing a damn thing about it. Lots of arguing. If it was a stuck gas pedal on a car killing people like this, or a hoodie drawstring, there would be rioting in the streets.

4) In the 1970s, Eagles Glenn Frey and Don Henley were at the center of a social circle of very creative people, including singer Linda Ronstadt, singer-songwriter Jackson Browne and actor-comedian Steve Martin. How do you express your creativity?

Writing. Lately, mostly, here.

5) Even though they broke up in 1980, the Eagles are currently on a reunion tour, and after knowing each other more than 40 years, Frey and Henley still consider each other friends. What quality to do you value most in a friendship?

There were some years in there where they didn't really like each other much, though... (Beast is a bit of an Eagles geek). I value patience and the ability to STFU at the right times. ;-)

6) Are there any mirrors in the room you're in right now?

Not...as such. Several framed things that reflect in the glass. Actually, the only mirror on this story of the house is in the bathroom, I think.

7) What's the last beverage you drank with ice?

The diet Pepsi I had with lunch.

8) Whole, skim, 2%, half-and-half, almond or soy ... what kind of milk is in your refrigerator right now?

I think it's 2% because I made mac 'n cheese last weekend. We don't go through much milk anymore--I usually only buy a pint when I know I'm going to use it.

9) Sam likes to mix sliced almonds into her salad. What do you think makes a good salad?

Ooh, I'll have to remember almonds! I'm not a big fan of fruit in vegetable salads (oranges and strawberries seem to be the usual choices. But I like a nice mixture of several kinds of greens, the greener the better, but I'm not too fussy. Maybe some shredded cheese or bleu cheese (real, please). Bleu cheese dressing, on the side, please. Croutons are nice. Sunflower seeds, carrot shreddies, NO tomatoes or cukes, and by the way everything needs to be cut or torn in SMALL pieces so they fit in a human mouth. There is nothing worse than having a 4x5" flap of lettuce covered in dressing at the end of your fork!

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
Random XV

1. How old is the oldest pair of shoes in your closet?

I have a pair of these

that are probably about 15 years old. Perhaps older, even. I should dig them out and see if my feet still like them....

2. Did you buy Girl Scout cookies this year? If so, what variety?

I bought a couple of boxes of Samoas and maybe the chocolate-peanut butter things (?) from a coworker's daughter.

3. Do you know how to ballroom dance?

No, much to my shame.

4. Were you a responsible child/teenager?

I was über responsible and well-behaved. In other words, kind of a pain in the ass.

5. How many of this year's Oscar-nominated movies did you see?

Zero.

6. If you're going to have a medical procedure done, such as having blood drawn, is it easier for you to watch someone else having the procedure done or have it done yourself?

I don't watch needles go in, but the rest of medicine doesn't bother me. As long as I have good pain meds, I think I'd be fine watching my own surgery.

7. What is your favorite day of the week and why?

Hmmm. I like the Fridays I have off since it feels--even after 25+ years--like I'm playing hooky from work. And for some reason I really am partial to Thursdays.

8. What’s the best compliment you’ve ever received??

Sparky often said, when he was much younger, "You're a good mommy" while he patted my head. Can't beat that, eh?

9. Do hospitals make you queasy?

Nope.

10. At which store would you like to max-out your credit card?

Right now, probably a garden center, or Lowe's/Home Depot.

11. Are you true to the brand names of products/items?

Sometimes. I always buy the same toilet paper, for instance. And pop. But pasta or processed stuff...whatever. I'm all over the map on pasta sauce, for instance.

12. Which is more difficult: looking into someone’s eyes when you are telling someone how you feel, or looking into someone’s eyes when he/she is telling you how he/she feels?

The former. I'm really bad at looking at people while I'm talking.

13. What’s one thing you’re deeply proud of — but would never put on your résumé?

My son. About myself...hmm, staying married for 28 years, maybe?

14. What’s the most out-of-character choice you’ve ever made?

Given some of my other personality quirks, the staying married might qualify...lol Certainly the person I married was out of character in some ways compared to "the usual type" I was (am) attracted to.

15. What’s your personal anthem or theme song?

"I Will Survive" comes to mind. So does "Amazing Grace" and not because I carry myself gracefully, either.

Patrick's Place

(Link in meme-roll)
Saturday Six

1. S is for SACCHARIFEROUS: You’re presented with a tray of sweeteners for your coffee: if you had to choose, are you more likely to select real sugar, Equal, Sweet-N-Low, Splenda or Truvia?

I don't drink coffee. I don't add anything to tea when I drink it, unless I'm sick and then it's honey (which then turns it into "medicine" instead of tea). But if I could figure out how to cook with Truvia, I totally would.

2. S is for SALSA: Which type of salsa do you prefer: watery with some vegetable and spice pieces, paste with everything ground in evenly, or little liquid with big vegetable/spice chunks?

Paste, i.e. like dip, if it's purchased. I really don't like most homemade salsa because it's too watery most of the time. However, the best salsa I've had has been made by people using their grandparents' recipes; not watery, not all ground up, just a perfect combination of flavors and textures.

3. S is for SAVINGS: Do you feel like you’re putting enough money in your savings month to month for the future?

Yes. Plus I have state pensions from two states (ok, one of them might keep me in cat food for six months if I'm careful, but it's there!). And of course, this supposes that my state won't have spent my pension before I can start drawing it.

4. S is for SLANG: What’s a slang word that particularly annoys you?

"Like." I used to be ok with it, and I use it more than I should also, but there are a couple of kids in my Sunday School class who, like, say "like", like, every, like, second word, like, like a, like, tic. I like the kids, but I want to smack them every time they do this.

5. S is for SNARK: Do you find the majority of snarky comments you see online to be funny or rude?

If I know they're TRYING to be snarky, it doesn't bother me; I mean, look at the tag to my blog's description! But there is a line between snark and snottiness, and it's probably NOT the same for everyone. I think it depends on each person's cultural sensibilities, so I expect the Northeasterners living in cities to be WAY more tolerant of high snark levels than a sheep rancher in Wyoming or a Baptist preacher in small-town Mississippi.

6. S is for SOUND: What’s the worst sound you’ve ever woken up to?

"Get up get up, get in the basement NOW NOW NOW! I'll get [Sparky]!" at about 1 a.m. ten years ago.