Friday 5

(Link in meme-roll)
Homecoming
A few questions inspired by Spider-Man: Homecoming. As always, I tried to write the questions so that you needn’t have seen the movie to answer the questions however you wish.

1. What’s the crime like in your neighborhood?

We are pretty much limited to (illegal-in-this-state) fireworks and kids taking money out of unlocked cars. Some speeding, some loud partying. Our county has a map of sex offenders, and we are surrounded, but not directly in this neighborhood. Three hundred yards away, the houses are tiny and cheap and far from schools.

2. If you could have attended one of those high schools with a specific academic focus, such as performing arts, studio arts, sustainability, science and technology, international languages and diplomacy, or some option you thought of yourself, which would you have chosen when you were thirteen?

I wouldn't have. My parents, rather, wouldn't have. We're big believers in well-rounded education in my family.

3. What was memorable about a party you remember from high school?

I can count on one hand the number of parties I went to in high school. They were all memorable for different reasons, but none of them were mad raves or crazy drink-fests.

4. Which of your older relatives is (or was) the handsomest or prettiest?

My crazy brother-in-law (Jan) was startlingly good-looking till he hit about 50, and since then has dropped right off that chart 100%. My second nephew Don used to look a lot like Brando did in his youth. The rest of us just look like people you see everywhere. I was accosted at the baseball game last weekend by someone asking how things were going with me, etc., who then realized I wasn't "Lauren" or whoever from St. John's Lutheran Church in [town in a state where I don't currently live]. It's quite weird when this happens.

5. What was homecoming like at your high school? How did you feel about it?

I didn't go. I wasn't dating anyone at that time, I felt (feel) strongly that holding onto--or getting into--a relationship just for Homecoming is not the person I want(ed) to be.

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
The Chicago Crazy Questions

1) What was your dream growing up?

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

2) What talent do you wish you had?

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

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

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

4) What was the last book you read?

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

5) Worst Habit?

Laziness.

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

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

7) What is your favorite sport?

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

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

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

9) Worst thing to ever happen to you?

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

10) Tell me one weird fact about you.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

14) Ever been arrested?

Nope. Just a couple of traffic tickets.

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

Pay down the mortgage.

16) Favorite thing to do in your spare time?

This. And read.

17) Biggest pet peeve?

Mean, nasty people.

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

Empathetic.

19) Do you believe in/appreciate romance?

Meh.

Saturday 9 x 3

(Link in meme-roll)
Johnny Angel (1962)
Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) In this song, a girl sings that she'd rather spend a quiet evening at home than go out on a date. How about you? Do you enjoy quiet time? Or do you prefer keeping a busy calendar?

I would always prefer to stay home, which doesn't preclude a busy calendar by any means. I seriously feel like I have no time for anything much fun lately. Exhibit A: being 3 weekends behind on all the memes!

2) She dreams of how her life with Johnny would be. What did you most recently daydream about?

Being in the mountains far away from adulthood and winter.

3) Shelley never considered herself a singer and is more comfortable acting. A costar on The Donna Reed Show, she was pressured to make this record by the show's producer, who wanted extra exposure for the show by having this song on the radio. Tell us about a time you ventured outside your comfort zone.

I went to the Soviet Union on a dare in college. I was terrified the the whole flight overseas--I'd been overseas, it was the destination--but I can't tell you how glad I am now that I forced myself.

4) Elvis said she was his favorite leading lady, and she appeared with him in three films. What qualities do you appreciate in a coworker?

Humor, hard work / attention to detail, kindness.

5) She met her close friend and fellow teen star Annette Funicello when they were 12 and attended the same Catechism class. What do you recall from your middle-school years?

Being embarrassed every day about ridiculous things. I do remember my math teacher making me keep my hand up in the air for like 10 minutes after I colored the whole palm black with a Magic Marker. The other sort of timely thing is that I had a crush on a guy named Larry when I was in 8th grade (he was a year ahead). I am friends on Facebook with him--really barely acquaintances IRL--and he posted for the first time in months today. Because he just got released from jail. So ... dodged a bullet there maybe?

6) After The Donna Reed Show, Shelly went on to a recurring role on One Day at a Time and was twice nominated for an Emmy for her work on Coach. Her husband is Mike Farrell, who played BJ on M*A*S*H. Which of those four sitcoms would you enjoy binge watching?

I don't really like binging--I get bored after a couple of shows because really they're all the same (with some notable exceptions). Having said that, I'd sit through a few hours of ODAAT or MASH any time!

7) In 1962, the year this song was popular, is also the year Jack Nicklaus began his successful pro golf career. Do you enjoy playing golf? Watching it on TV?

We watch golf, because Beast loves it. I wouldn't ever choose it for myself. I think I'd enjoy playing golf if I were any good, but I'm too competitive to deal with all the randomness and luck of the game.

TWO Random Questions (especially for Harriet):
8) A 2013 study said most Americans will have 12 romantic relationships in their lifetime. Does this mean you've had more or less than your share?

Less. Although how does one define a "romantic relationship" anyway?

9) It's closing time at the mall and you find yourself accidentally locked in a toy store. You call the police and they say someone will be there in about half an hour to rescue you. While you wait, will you play with any toys? (If so, which ones?)

Of course, but seriously: a half hour? Why call? I'll just play all night, sleep with some of the teddies, play with the Lego and board games, and hang out in the bathroom around opening time till it's safe to leave. I promise; I wouldn't even steal anything!!

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I'll Be There (1992)
Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) In this song, Mariah pledges to "have faith in all you do." Have you recently given someone support or a pep talk?

I do this regularly at work: "You can do this; it's not as hard as it sounds." is a common refrain with people online for the first time. Yes, there are still people who don't 'do' computers! Coworkers, same, though the topic is usually more along the lines of "stand up for yourself!" since I work with a lot of people like me who are terminally co-dependent. And of course Beast needs lots of validation post-surgery; he can't use his left arm for much, and his back is still FUBAR, as is his shoulder. He feels like a drain on resources (his view, not mine), but he's really doing pretty well considering the level of pain he's experiencing all day.

2) Mariah was at the center of a controversy in Times Square on New Year's Eve when she had audio problems and claimed she could not perform. Times Square is at the busy intersection of Broadway and 7th Avenue. If we went to the busy intersection nearest your home, what would we find? (A store? A church? McDonald's?)

The nearest actually busy intersection to my house is just 2 farm fields, a house and a horse farm. The busiest intersection in the city where I work is probably the one with Walgreen's, McD's, a gas station and a strip mall on the corners.

3) Her nickname in high school was Mirage because she cut school so often. Did you ever play hookey?

I can literally remember every single time I ditched out of school. Both were in college.

4) Mariah doesn't apologize for spoiling her dogs, who have been known to travel by limo. Do you know anyone who treats his/her pets like people?

I try to assume that all my pet-loving friends are perfectly normal. But there is one friend that I'm pretty sure is clinically insane about her dog. ;-)

5) Mariah has something to fall back on. She studied cosmetology and worked as a hair sweeper in a salon. When you get your hair cut, do you socialize with the stylist?

A "hair sweeper" is an actual job title? Wow, I have skills I had no idea I had! My hair person is a friend, so yeah. She and I have been discussing for years life as wives of alcoholics. Her husband died--at 45ish--last year from that. Mine is still around, so far.

6) When married to her first husband, Mariah went vegetarian. Tell us about last night's dinner. Would it qualify as a vegetarian meal?

Nope. I had leftover KFC chicken and biscuits.

7) This week's song was introduced by The Jackson 5. Think of your favorite Michael Jackson song. Did he record it solo or with his brothers?

My favorite MJ song is "Man in the Mirror" so alone. However, I also really enjoy "ABC" with the whole gang.

8) In 1992, when this song was popular, The Mall of America opened. Located in Minnesota, it's the biggest mall in the nation, with more than 400 stores. Think about the last thing you purchased. Were you shopping out of necessity, or for fun?

Necessity at Aldi's Thursday after work. I don't shop for fun. {{shudder}} Unless you count Amazon Subscribe and Save which I did this morning, but again that was things like laundry detergent and toilet paper.

9) Have you ever shoplifted? (Don't worry. We won't tell.)

Yes, but the statute of limitations has expired at least 5 times since then.

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Magic (1980)
Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) This 1980 video depicts Olivia Newton-John as a performer in small club. For the past few years, she's been performing regularly at the Flamingo in Las Vegas. Have you ever been to Las Vegas?

Yes. I actually love that place because it's just full of Teh Weeeirrrrd! I go for the "show" along the sidewalks of the Strip. It's free and way more entertaining the anything in a theater!

2) Many tourists who want to get away from the glitz of Vegas travel less than 20 miles to visit Red Rock Canyon. This national park is known for its hiking trails, which provide a view of the desert flora and red rock peaks. Tell us about a time you were impressed by natural beauty.

And I love this place most of all. We try to get there every time we are in Vegas because it reminds me so much of home. If I could live anywhere, that would be on the top 10 list. To answer the actual question: I find nature beautiful in small and large ways almost daily.

3) One of the best-reviewed restaurants in Las Vegas is Andiamo Italian Steak House. When you order a steak, how do you request it be cooked: rare, medium rare, medium, medium well or well done?

Medium to medium-rare.

4) Olivia Newton-John's father was an officer in MI5, the UK's secret service. Sam's most recent encounter with the law didn't have much drama or intrigue: she asked a cop for directions to the highway. Tell us about the last time you spoke to an officer of the law.5) ONJ was awarded the OBE -- Order of the British Empire -- by Queen Elizabeth in honor of her contributions to the arts. Here's your opportunity to boast. What is something you've done lately that you received praise for?

I've had a lot of people, including Beast, tell me they don't know how I deal with "home life" right now over the past year or so. Is that praise? I don't really live for praise, though it's nice when it happens.

6) A breast cancer survivor, Olivia helped found a cancer center in her hometown of Melbourne, Australia. When you think of Australia, what comes to mind?

Kangaroos. I haven't ever been there, so what can I say in my defense?

7) "Magic" was one of the top-selling records of 1980. Also that year, Post-It notes debuted. Do you enjoy shopping for office supplies, or do you consider it a chore?

OMG--I have am a totally office-supply whore! Pens! Paper! Calendars! It's an out-of-body experience for me in those stores.

8) In 1980, the NASA space probe returned the first photos of Saturn back to earth. Do you believe intelligent life forms from other planets are trying to learn more about us?

I think there is intelligent life besides us in the universe. I don't think they have the slightest interest in us.

9) Random question: Are you more confident in your looks or your intelligence?

Intelligence.

Sunday Stealing:

(Link in meme-roll)
The Controversial Questions Meme

1. Would you do a recreation[al] drug if all were legalized? (Not a “for or against” question…)

If it were prescribed and controlled, then yes. What I fear about recreational drugs is the non-standardization more than anything else. God knows what's been put in that baggie with the weed!

2. Are you happy that the U.S. Supreme Court once again upheld a woman’s right to abortion?

Yes. And to be clear: they affirmed that it is MY RIGHT to decide what happens in my body, and no one else's. I don't need anyone's permission to make medical decisions. AND to be clearer: this doesn't mean that I'd actually GET an abortion. Well, I wouldn't now, for sure, because I can't get pregnant, but yeah....even way back.

3. Would our country cope any differently with a woman president?

Probably about as well as we've "coped with" a non-white president. YMMV

4. Do you believe in the death penalty?

Not really. It's never been proven to be a deterrent and it is so unevenly applied to mostly minority and poor defendants that I think it's dangerous.

5. Do you wish marijuana would be legalized already?

There are "already" places it has been, duh. And yeah. See question #1 above. Regulate it, tax it, and make it boring.

6. Do you believe in God?

Yup. Mostly. Except when I'm being combative.

7. How do you feel now that same-sex marriage is legalized?

Who people marry doesn't actually affect my health or well-being; does that happen to others? I'm very happy that people who love each other can announce their relationship to the world and share the benefits that legally are attendant to that. Mostly because I have enough issues of my own to deal with: I do not need to solve other people's perceived problems as well. Happier people make for a better society, anyway.

8. Do you think it’s wrong that so many Hispanics are moving to the USA?

Oh jeebus pete, hell, for crying out loud. No. I think too many STUPID people have already taken up residence, so I'm quite happy in thinking maybe that ignorance will be diluted by good, hard-working people who WANT to be here!

9. A 12-year-old girl has a baby… should she keep it?

Is she in any way related to me? ... No? Well, then it's none of my business at all, is it? [If she were my daughter et al., we'd have to have some serious discussions of what her life was going to entail if she brought a baby into the house--it would suck balls, frankly, for everyone--but more importantly...how the HELL did she get pregnant?! And why?!]

10. Should the alcohol age be lowered to 18?

I'd be ok with that. It was when I turned 18 and (most of) my friends survived, as did I. When it went up to 19 a year later, it was right after I turned 19. And then in two years I was grandfathered in when it rose to 21. It's ridiculous, frankly, to think that 18-year-olds aren't drinking.

11. Should the wars in Middle East be called off?

I don't see how you can "call off" a war. It's not like a soccer game, is it? It would be nice if the people in the area could be left alone for a decade or two in order to sort their shit out amongst themselves. In my lifetime, there has never been peace there. That's sad.

No 12.

13. Do you believe in spanking your children?

I have spanked my son. Surprisingly, it does hurt the spanker as well as the spankee! So I didn't do it much, and I didn't do it for good reasons most of the time, so it was pretty futile.

14. A mother is declared innocent after murdering her 5 children in a temporary insanity case… what do you think?

I think we can all agree that a parent who kills their children is insane and needs help. Whether we agree that that excludes them from prison is really the issue. I don't know. I just feel so very sad for EVERYONE in situations like this, including the offending parent--while also being very angry, of course. There are no winners, no matter what the legal outcome is.

15. Would you want to prosecute someone for burning their country’s flag as a method of protest?

Nope. This is such a dorky thing to get worked up about. I mean, it's FABRIC for crying out loud. We do far more damage to our country every day we ignore the Constitution. The flag is beside the point.

16. It’s between you and a person who is being kept alive (with NO hope) by life support machines… one has to die? Who?

Dude on life support has got to go, sorry. Easy choice. If it were ME in that situation, I would hope it would be just as easy a decision. Pull the plug.

17. Are you afraid others will judge you from reading some of your answers?

I have no doubt that these questions will provoke some interesting answers. I'm eager to see what people say. Will I judge people for their replies? Probably. Do I expect others to have opinions on my opinions? Sure. But I'm not going to fret.
Or argue in the comments. So I will be attentive with the delete button if necessary. Pretend you're in my living room having the discussion.

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
Ask Questions Meme

1. What type of criminal would you be?

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

2. What are you listening to right now?

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

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

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

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

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

5. Do you drink alcohol?

Not very often, not anymore.

6. Do you smoke?

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

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

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

8. Do you get attached easily?

Not like I used to. Too many emotional injuries.

9. Do you like your eye color?

I'm cool with it.

10. Have any stupid human tricks?

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

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

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

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

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

13. Have you ever stolen anything?

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

14. Any romantic gestures you really like?

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

15. What’s your favorite color and why?

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

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

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

17. What would your dream house be like?

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

18. What last made you laugh?

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

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

Bed or the bathroom.

20. What is your favorite word?

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

21. What is your least favorite word?

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

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

You bet!!

23. Do you have any siblings?

I have one sister and one brother left.

24. Do you like to dance?

Yes. But not in public.

25. What is your definition of cheating?

Lying about emotional commitments to others.

Sunday Stealing

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

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

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

Do you take the shampoos and conditioner bottles from hotels?

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

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

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

Where is your next vacation?

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

Have you ever stolen a street sign before?

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

Who do you think reads these?

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

Do you have a calendar in your room?

I do.

Where are you?

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

What’s your plan for the day?

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

Are you reading any books right now?

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

Do you ever count your steps when you walk?

Sometimes. Why do we do this?

Have you ever peed in the woods?

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

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

All the time.

Do you chew your pens and pencils?

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

What is your “Song of the Week”?

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

Is it okay for guys to wear pink?

Of course!!

Do you still watch cartoons?

Nope.

What's your favorite love movie?

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

What do you drink with dinner?

Pop. Or water.

What do you dip Chicken Nuggets in?

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

What is your favorite food/cuisine?

Italian.

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

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

Last person you hugged/kissed?

Beast.

Were you ever a boy/girl scout?

Yup.

Would you ever strip or pose nude in a magazine?

Hell no.

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
Hawaii Five-O (1969)
Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) This is the theme from the TV show that originally ran from 1968 to 1980 and is on now again with a new cast. Were you/are you a fan?

I remember watching it with my brother back in the day. I watched a lot of season 1 of the new series, but it was a little too...I don't know...it just didn't grab me. Though they are some nice-looking guys.

2) On both shows, Five-O is an elite police task force led by Det. Lt. Steve McGarrett. Who is your favorite TV cop?

Olivia Benson.

3) On both shows, the part of Danny "Danno" Williams was played by a second generation performer. (James MacArthur was the son of Broadway legend Helen Hayes; Scott Caan is the son of movie actor James Caan.) If you followed one of your parents into their chosen profession, what would you be doing?

My dad was in construction, and my mom worked at a clerk in the county court office. I'm more of my mom than my dad.

4) Both shows are filmed in Hawaii, the boyhood home of President Obama. Have any of our 44 Presidents hailed from your state?

I don't think we've had a native Coloradoan become President. The state I'm in now has produced at least one.

5) Kona coffee is made from beans cultivated on the Big Island of Hawaii. Are you a big coffee drinker?

I don't drink coffee.

6) This week's song was written by the late Morton Stevens. In addition to composing for TV shows, he was the musical director for a group of entertainers known in the 60s as "The Rat Pack." Can you name any "Rat Pack" members?

Dean Martin, Sammy Davis, Jr., Frank Sinatra, Joey whathisname....and some others.

7) This week's featured band, The Ventures, began when Don Wilson purchased a used car from Bob Bogle. During negotiations, they discovered a shared passion for playing guitar. Did you buy your current ride new or used? Did the negotiations go smoothly?

We "bought" the car I currently drive now when Beast was allowed to re-up for a new company car and I kept his previous company car. No negotiations.

8) The year this song was popular, 1969, is when Donald and Doris Fisher opened a San Francisco clothing store called The Gap. Today there are more than 3,200 Gap locations. Do you shop at The Gap or gap.com?

Nope. There isn't one very close, and their clothes are too pricey for me.

9) Random question: What's on your Saturday to-do list?

I worked 9-2 and have been home since. I should go to the grocery store, but I'm tired, and unmotivated.

Friday 5 x 3

(Link in meme-roll)
Big Latin

1. Ad infinitum is Latin for “to forever.” What’s something in your life that continues ad infinitum?

Missing family members who are no longer available to call and chat with and hug.

2. What’s something (mostly) only fellow alumni know about one of your alma maters?

Five years ago I would have mentioned "schlags" but apparently those aren't done anymore. So I guess I'll just have to go with all the haunted buildings on campus. Or, oh hey, Convocations!

3. In what way did you carpe diem today (or yesterday, if you’re doing this early)?

I bailed on Sunday School and worked an extra couple of hours so I can leave early on Wednesday and go shopping on my way to pick up Sparky from the airport later this week.

4. In flagrante delicto means “in a blazing wrong” or “while the crime is blazing.” What’s something you remember being caught red-handed perpetrating?

I can't think of anything much. I was a pretty well-behaved kid, as well as a very good liar. Oh! There was the 2-week long lie about swimming lessons when I was about 11.....

5. What is so far your magnum opus (great work; masterpiece)?

Can I call that Sparky?

Beside Ourselves

1. Besides cookies, muffins, and ice cream, what’s something chocolate chips are good in?

I have been known to eat them right out of the bag. Also, the mini ones are good in cake and pancakes.

2. Besides official holidays and your birthday, what’s the best day of the year?

I like July and August a lot, so one of those 62 days.

3. Besides toilet paper and pantry items, what’s something in your house you make sure never to run out of?

It's never a good thing for us to run out of cheese or bread.

4. Besides relatives, teachers, and coaches, who gave you the most memorable advice growing up?

Can I say siblings? They are all way older than me and always have plenty of advice. And other people's parents were helpful at times too.

5. Besides junk mail, subscriptions, greeting cards, and stuff you ordered online, what’s something great that came in the mail recently?

I still subscribe to several magazines, so let's count those.

Song Stuff

1. What’s a song that reminds you of your parents?

The Depression, and people who have lived in Colorado their whole lives: they have a certain drawl that sounds like my folks. My dad: puns. Oh how he loved puns. ;-)

2. What’s a song that makes you think of food?

"Bringing in the Sheaves" reminds me of Thanksgiving.

3. What’s a memorable song from a movie soundtrack?

I grew up memorizing musicals of the 50s through the mid-70s. So, hmm, there are a lot from which to choose. I can't pick one, and I can't pick anything from a straight movie either. Sorry.

4. What was your favorite song from 2014?

Either "Happy" or "Bang Bang." I still haven't heard "Let It Go" all the way through. Can you tell there are no young girls in my household?

5. What are your favorite songs for when you’re behind the wheel?

I love John Mellencamp and Bruce Springsteen, or TobyMac, or Melissa Etheridge. Loud. For road trips. Or a good book on CD.

Patrick's Place

(Link in meme-roll)
Saturday Six

1. You see that someone you’re talking to has a piece of spinach in her teeth. Would you say something or pretend you don’t notice?

I absolutely tell her! I also try to be somewhat discreet about it if possible. Why on earth would anyone NOT say something? After all, what's worse than having spinach in your teeth? Having spinach in your teeth several hours after lunch!

2. You overhear a mom creating a scene in a grocery store and using profanity while yelling at her child. Would you say something to the mom or would you feel it was none of your business?

This happens semi-regularly at work, and since I'm in a position of 'authority' there I usually wander past and look sympathetically at the kid and glare at the mom. I'd probably do that at the store too. If it's really out of control or looks like it's about to get physical, I might step in and say something like, "I think you dropped a coupon" and hand the mom one, or offer a Kleenex to the mom for the kid to use, or mention that Mom has spinach on her teeth. ;)
There's also the option of putting my phone next to my ear as I walk past them and saying, "[Child Protective Services], yes, I have a report to make..." If it really looked like a completely crazy situation, I might dial 911 for real.
I do worry that getting involved directly may make things worse once the parent is out of the store and alone with the kid. I know this happens in abusive adult relationships when people stand up for the victim. It may actually be better to ask if she can help you find something in the "feminine products" aisle and get her away from the guy to see if she wants help.

3. You overhear a child creating a scene in a grocery store and using profanity while yelling at his mom. Would you say something to the mom or would you feel it was none of your business?

I'd totally say something to the kid! "Who, exactly, is paying for these groceries? You, or her?" or (more succintly) "What the hell, dude?" The interesting thing in this sort of situation is how often the parent jumps on whoever gets involved and tells them to STFU. Of course, this assumes the kid is young and/or small. If it's a big thuggy-looking kid, I think I'd do the above "feminine products" trick with the mom.

4. You see a child shoplift a toy and notice the parent doesn’t see it. Would you say something to the parent, the child, store management, or no one?

Kind of depends on the item, I guess. I'd try to catch the kid's eye and raise my eyebrows at them. If they have any conscience at all, that's usually going to be enough, especially if I look like I'm going to talk to her dad. If I get a sassy look back, I might ask dad if I could swap for it since I was looking for "that very color" or whatever and I just saw his angel pick up the one I wanted.

5. You see an apparently homeless man shoplift something at a store. Would you say something to the man, the store manager, or no one?

Again, depends on the item. Booze = "MANAGER!" Fresh fruit or something like that and I'm staying mum. Generally, I'd probably not say anything directly to the shoplifter though; one never knows what's going to set off Teh CuhRAYzee.

6. You see a homeless man outside a restaurant begging for food and you happen to have an extra $10 in your pocket. Would you buy him lunch, hand him the cash, or do nothing?

I'd buy him lunch. At least, I hope I would. I think I sometimes get a little too wrapped up in 'how busy' I am and don't notice what's going on around me.

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.

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
The Generic Meme

1. What did you want to be when you were little?

Bigger, or rather, older.

2. Would you prefer to have a large group of friends, or a small group of friends? Why?

I would prefer to have precisely the friends I currently have in more or less the same arrangement. I'm not averse to new friends of course, but I don't suppose I have a great deal of control over this.

3. What is your fashion "style"? Or what type of clothes do you wear on a daily basis?

I like jeans. Various sorts of T-shirts. I'm really more interested in shoes than anything else to do with fashion.

4. If you could live anywhere where would you live?

OK, here's the scoop: the official outside temperature right now is -2, but it feels like -24. The low temperature is supposed to hit -18 (so do the windchill math there in your head). Tomorrow's high is supposed to top out at -13 with windchills in the -50 range. So, long story short--I need to move somewhere else in January and February at least.

5. What is your biggest hope for the next year?

I would like to see a lot of recalibration.

6. When you pass by reflective surfaces do you check yourself out?

Yup. Mostly my hair.

7. Favorite genre of movie as well as TV show?

Crime. Nothing overly violent, but I watch what I read most.

8. Top favorite books? (limit of 5)

The top five listed in my GoodReads list are:

1. The Hiding Place (ten Boom)
2. The Little House Collection (Little House, #1-9) (Wilder)
3. The Book Of Ruth (Hamilton)
4. The Yellow Wallpaper (Gilman)
5. The Great Gatsby (Fitzgerald)

9. Have you ever taken a cooking class?

No, but I've actually thought recently that it might be a good thing to consider.

10. What three words would you use to describe yourself?

Focused, loyal, opinionated.

11. Favorite animal?

Wolf.

12. What is your dream job?

The one I currently have.

13. If you could go back in history to any moment that you did not live, what would it be and why?

I'd love to meet Laura Ingalls about the time she and Almanzo were stepping out.

14. If you could have any superpower, what would it be? Why?

Invisibility. I like to be unnoticed, and eavesdropping is kinda fun.

15. What is your favorite movie?

Shoah.

16. What is your best childhood memory?

Jumping rope, playing jacks, playing tennis against the side of the house, playing cars in the stepping stones in the yard...

17. What is your favorite part about blogging?

I've found that, quite often, once I've vented about something, or at least mentioned it, it stops being such a major focus of my brain.

18. What is your favorite quote?

Tonight it is this one:

"Pluto is cold; Chicago in January is merely inconvenient." ―Mark Blumberg

19. What song do you feel like describes your life the best? Why?

"Brave and Crazy" (Melissa Etheridge) simply because life requires both of these. Especially lately.

20. Would you describe yourself as shy or outgoing?

Depending on the day and time, I can be either. And sometimes both.

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
Dominos
Unfamiliar with this week's song? Listen to it here.

1) Have you ever carefully set up dominos and then watched them fall? Or built a house out of playing cards?

Yes, I actually, have done those things. More than once. Really, it's not all that uncommon.

2) In this week's song, Big Pink lead vocalist Robbie Furze sings, "The hottest love has the coldest end." Have you ever had a relationship that started out so promisingly and passionately but then quickly flamed out?

Ayup. Trained me not to fall for that again.

3) This [song] is from Big Pink's CD, A Brief History of Love. What about your personal history of love? How many times would say you have truly been in love?

...today is just not the day for this....

4) Nicki Minaj sampled this song for her own, "Girls Fall Like Dominos." Nicki won't be back on American Idol this season. Is your reaction a) delight or b) sadness or c) a yawn.

Yawn.

5) While nationally the news centers on foreign policy and the economy, Sam's hometown is abuzz over the new Asian-fusion restaurant on Main Street and whether it can get a liquor license. What's the big local story where you are?

The city council is talking about reconverting all the old 19th century houses in the center of town back to single-family dwellings in order to make the neighborhood tidier. Like that is even remotely feasible: forcing property-owners to rehab their buildings? They can't even force them to clean up their yards!

6) Mary Jane Kelley is believed to be the fifth and final victim of Jack the Ripper. OK, now it's your turn. Share a random fact that's rattling around in your brain.

Mary Jane Kelly (also spelled "Kelley," and also known as "Marie Jeanette Kelly," "Ginger," "Emma," and "Black Mary") was also the most mutilated of the victims, probably because she was the only one murdered indoors so the killer had time to remove most of her abdominal organs and place them all around her room, and burn up some of his clothes (and maybe some of the organs? I can't remember...). The police figured he'd been there for hours, and still he was never caught.
Can you tell I did a paper on Jack the Ripper in school? Followed some years later by a longer, more detailed paper on prostitution in Victorian London.

7) Crazy Sam cursed last night when she dropped a can of tomato paste on her foot. (Hey! It really hurt!) When was the last time you swore?

I swear like a fuckin' sailor. I (try to) rein it in at church and in the public at work.

8) Sam has a grocery bag filled with hoodies and t-shirts she no longer wants and plans to take them to The Salvation Army store. What do you do with your gently used clothes? Toss them or donate them or hand them down to a friend or relative?

Purple Heart. They come get things once I gather them together.

9) Do you blush easily?

Hellz to the yeah! I have very northern-European complexion. I can't even drink a glass of wine without turning blood-red. Sucks.

Lots of Curiosity in this Cat

(Link in meme-roll)

1) Have you ever been arrested?

Nope. Never spent time in custody. Hoping to keep that record intact untill I die.

2) In what ways would you like to change the world?

I'm trying to keep my corner of it from imploding at any given moment by trying to be kind. I'm actually nicer in person than on the blog(s).

3) Has a book ever brought you to tears?

Only about twice a month for most of my life.

4) Show and Tell. What comes to mind first when you see this picture? Or, tell a story if it reminds you of one.

Public Domain Photo

This nail needs driving--it's a hazard to feet and the structural integrity of whatever it's supposed to be holding together.

+ + + + + + + +
1) What's the worst thing that's ever happened to you as a result of procrastinating?

I can't right now think of a specific incident, but there've been a few missed opportunities, for sure.

2) Are you a member of the Mile High Club?

Nope, though I did grow up in the Mile High City, so if we stretch the definition... lol

3) What's worse, extremely cold weather or extremely hot weather?

I hate hot+humid. Abhor it! Otherwise, I don't mind hot. But it's easier to deal with cold--you can always find ways to warm up, but it's hard to cool down.

4) Show and Tell. What comes to mind first when you see this picture? Or, tell a story if it reminds you of one.

Public Domain Photo

I find butterflies really interesting. This one is unusually un-colorful, but still lovely.

+ + + + + + + +
1) Describe your "good china," whether you actually own any or not.

I have both of my grandmother's china sets, plus my parents'. We use the latter on Thanksgiving: it's beige with pale green outer rims, very '50/'60s-standard. I love them. I didn't ask for china when we got married: seemed silly to ask for dishes we'd have to store for 10 years.

2) When are you happiest?

When I'm relaxed and accomplishing something important (to me).

3) If you could turn into two people right now, what are the first two things you'd want to do?

I'd go on vacation, like, permanently. And the other one of me would stick around and keep earning money to pay for that vacation.

4) Show and Tell. What comes to mind first when you see this picture? Or, tell a story if it reminds you of one.

Public Domain Photo

There was a day when hang-gliding looked like the most fun ever. Now, this photo kinda scares me: what if you impaled your glider on one of the arms of the turbines?? So, yeah, I'm too old for this I think.

+ + + + + + + +
1) You discover that the person you're head-over-heels about loves good homemade & handmade desserts. What will you concoct when you have this person over?

Hmm, looks like it's apple crumble all around with (maybe even homemade) whipped cream on top.

2) What would you leave in your will for the person you care about the most?

My money, and the name of a good attorney/accountant. OK, seriously: family mementos and a big mess to clean up. It's only fair, right? Reality is somewhere in the middle of all this, of course.

3) What do you consider to the most valuable thing you own: when you were a child/teenager/now?

When I was a child, it was probably one of my toys, maybe my jacks. As a teen, probably my diary. Now...probably this computer. Or...jeez, maybe my family Bibles?

4) Show and Tell. What comes to mind first when you see this picture? Or, tell a story if it reminds you of one.

Public Domain Photo

Huge much? Since I know the photo is actually of a prison, it astounds me that we (still) spend so much money in our (used broadly here: this is in Australia) culture on locking people up.

+ + + + + + + +
1) How often do you clean between your toes?

Directly and intentionally? Not real often, but then again, they don't really get that dirty.

2) What is your favorite way to waste time at work without getting caught?

I've been known to check Facebook. I read through random interesting-looking books quite regularly (is that really time-wasting, though?). Oh, and there's the regular chit-chat with coworkers.

3) If you could have had the starring role in one film already made, which movie would you pick?

So tempting to say Maria in "The Sound of Music".... I can't think of any other heroines I'd want to be. Well, ok, maybe Professor McGonnigle.

4) Show and Tell. What comes to mind first when you see this picture? Or, tell a story if it reminds you of one.

Public Domain Photo

Awesome to see strong black women running things. The world would be a better place if we saw more of this, I think.

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
The Imaginary Meme, Part Three

41. Growing up, who was the easier mark: Mom or Dad?

Dad, totally; his currency was guilt while Mom's was yelling and/or spanking.

42. What is the stupidest pet that you ever saw?

I've never really understood why people want ferrets; they smell weird. And I do NOT get fish as pets. We have had a large fish tank at work for 12 years; I still don't get the attraction.

43. Tell us about a band whose every CD is a "must have."

I don't think there's one that every single person should own but IMHO everyone should have listened to Sgt. Pepper at least once.

44. Where you surprised when Jim Parsons came out?

Who? What? Do I care if/when someone "comes out"? Only if it's someone in my family, and then only because it would be a relief to have it out in the open.

45. Have you ever shoplifted?

They're way too heavy for me....

46. We currently have a person who plays both this meme and Saturday 9 who signs in to Mr. Linky every week. Yet, if you click on that link, you are told that only "members" can read the blog. Why do you think that person even bothers to sign in or for that matter, do the meme? (Don't misunderstand, we have no rules and we aren't angry. But it is damn peculiar, no?)

I'd guess they don't realize they have that setting flipped that way, or they haven't thought it through. I think "peculiar" is being kind though; I'd say that whoever this is is just really fuckin' dumb.

47. Have you ever driven a Ferrari?

No. But I got the shirt anyway, although mine has a zip front rather than buttons.

48. What do you call those little plastic things on the ends of shoelaces?

They're aglets. Never ask a librarian a trivia question....

49. Have you ever walked more than a mile?

Of course. At one time even. I used to hike around the mountains for a full day, for Pete's sake! Even last year in Italy and England, I walked miles every day.

50. Do you believe in magic?

"...in a young girl's heart"?
I believe in magic tricks, but not controlled magical occurrences.

51. Have you ever been arrested?

I've gotten two traffic tickets, so yes.

52. Have you ever skinny dipped?

Nope. Can't swim, so the whole thing seems a bit dubious to me.

53. Explain what you think about hippies.

I don't, if I can help it. Seriously, the only true hippies who are left are somewhere between 60 and 75 years old. That's terrifying.

54. New York or California?

For what? California has better wine, weather, and accents, New York has better Revolutionary War sites and trees.

55. Have you ever been dumped?

Nope. Unless we're talking about friends (not dates).

56. What are you wearing right now?

SoulSeed T (ecru, white and yellow), gray short yoga pants, underwear, rings, earrings, nail polish, and hair gel.

57. John Edwards had a mistrial. How do you think he conducted himself after the verdict?

lol...I thought that said "John Edwards had a minstrel"!! I think I need either a nap or new glasses. John Edwards' life and mine have no lines of intersection, so I don't really much care; he's irrelevant to me.

58. Did you watch the series finale of House?

I have not watched one scene of that show. It just does not appeal.

59. You may need to go back a long way if you are old like Harriet. Who was the last person who asked you out? (Or that asked you out. Same dumb question either way.)

No, a person isn't a "that", so they are different questions. And well, if we're talking dates, that would be Beast. Out shopping or for a platonic day out, probably Amy.

60. Do you have any collections?

Innumerable. We're now naming all our dust-bunnies, for instance.

Patrick's Place

(Link in meme-roll)
Saturday 6

1. While going through old boxes, you find an old library book of which you are very fond, but you realize that it was a library book. You assume that the library has long-since written the book off as a loss because it has been boxes away for 20 years or more, and the book carries a great deal of sentimental value for you. Would you return the book or keep it?

Really, Patrick?
I'd probably keep it at this point, but I would call the library and see if it's still on my record there. The reality is that when people DO this with any regularity, their credit rating goes in the dumper and it may mean stopping in the middle of buying a house to run to the owning library to make restitution for the materials they've STOLEN. This happened to someone I know while buying a house in California. Moral: don't steal.

2. You visit one of your closest friends who is battling a terminal illness. It's clear he or she will not survive, but is in a lot of pain. Your friend begs you to briefly disconnect life support long enough for death to come. If there is no way your intervention could be discovered and no way you could face any kind of prosecution, would you grant your friend's request?

I would call hospice, and an attorney, and in the meantime ask why my friend hadn't gotten around to creating a Medical Power of Attorney, a DNR order at the hospital, and/or a Living Will . Had s/he done this, s/he would not have been connected to any intrusive live-saving equipment in the first place.

3. You have the chance to be in a parade and ride on a float supporting a cause you believe in, but you can't appear in any kind of disguise or costume: which cause's float would you most likely be comfortable selecting?

Look, if I believed in something enough to appear in a float in a parade, I wouldn't bother with a disguise in the first place. That goes for the parades I have marched in with Little League and Girl Scouts and my church, and Bigger Issues like Feminism, Peace, LGBT, etc.

4. Your company's top executive team arrives for a surprise visit, and selects you and a handful of other employees to meet with one-on-one in an attempt to get the pulse of their employees and to uncover any problems within the organization. How honest are you likely to be about your answers when they ask about specific problems you know exist, even if it means that friends you work with could lose their jobs over what you say?

I wouldn't be dishonest in that case, but I also would choose not to answer directly. If the big guys are in town on a fact-finding mission in this economy, they are looking for which heads to chop off, so I'm just keeping mine down.
IRL, this wouldn't happen because a) I work for municipal government, so there IS no "out-of-town" big shots, and b) they've already sliced well into the bone in terms of cutting so I'm saying nothing about anyone who is left!

5. You find yourself slated to be a guest on a talk show: which host, living or dead, would you most like to be interviewed by, and why would you choose that host?

I loved Phil Donahue; he was serious, honest, passionate and smart.

6. Your church decides to take part in a political protest, and it seems that nearly everyone feels the same way about the issue. You, however, do not share their view. At the risk of being ostracized, would you deny to participate, or would you search for a way to quietly assist, without being out in front?

Count me out. I'm not gonna conform, ESPECIALLY in church, if I feel something is wrong. If I'm ostracized, AT CHURCH, for refusing to participate in something morally repugnant to me, then I'm changing churches. Why the HELL did I stay in this church in the first place?!

Curious as a Cat

(Link in meme-roll)

1) Today, whose mouth needs to be covered with duct tape?

This is why I try to do this meme (and others) before reading other people's answers: I don't want to be prompted. But today I ran across Bud's answers before I thought about mine, and now I can't get Michelle Bachman out of my mind for this one. She's kind of been hovering in my forebrain anyway, what with Sparky watching the rerun of SNL this week which led with a MB bit, and shelving the Newsweek with her on the cover at the h.s. this morning, and the fact that she and one of my best friends graduated from the same college (to my friend's undying shame). The woman's both insane and inane, which is rather a good trick.

Otherwise, if we haven't used up all the duct tape on her, it might not be such a bad thing to keep a couple strips handy in my vicinity; I expect this week is going to bring The Mouth out in me a bit.

2) You are a zookeeper, and one day a shady-looking man brings in what he calls an "exotic animal." This animal is in a wooden box with small air holes on the top and the box is stamped DANGEROUS. He throws a picture on your desk and you look at the strangest creature you’ve ever seen. Describe it, and tell what you’re going to do.

I dunno--having watched a lot of National Geographic PBS shows as a kid, and continuing to watch a lot of basic cable shows of that ilk, combined with reading an awful lot of Stephen King and his ilk as a kid...it may be hard to freak me out.

So the first thing I'm going to do is get this guy's ID and then call the USDA, or at least animal control, and report him.

(By the way, I'm picturing something like this but with a beak and a peacock tail.)

3) Share three good things about your life right now.

1. I'm very proud of my son. He leaves for college on Friday, and has proven again this weekend that whatever his weaknesses are, he is very aware of things and is smart as a tack.
2. I have an awesome group of friends on whom I can count to tell me the unvarnished truth, and even hold me and pray for me. I know, that's not the sort of thing you may come here expecting to hear, but oh well.
3. It's summer, but it's not hot-and-nasty like August here usually is. That is priceless and rare.

4) Show and Tell. What comes to mind first when you see this picture? Or, tell a story if it reminds you of one.

Public Domain Photo

Hey, I'm Jesus-juking you all in a big way this week! It was not intentional when I wrote this, and found the photo. I do have to wonder what exactly this is all about: why is he (or He) looking at the road, what's around that corner that he (or He) is watching, who took this picture, is it doctored or an actual branch/lighting/weirdness combination? Aside from the creepy eyeballs looking down from On High, this is a lovely, peaceful photo.

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
The Plaid Hat Meme

1. When showering, do you start the water and then get in, or get in then start the water?

I warm the water up first, then get in. I live in a cold climate and getting into the shower on a winter morning before having warm water is just stupid.

2. Have you ever showered with someone of the opposite sex?

Uhm, yeah? Cuz, see, been married for (officially now) 25 years?

3. Were you ever been forced to shower with one of your siblings?

I'm ten years younger than my nearest sibling. So, no.

4. Have you ever dropped your soap on your foot?

Hell, yeah; it hurts. Worse is dropping a liter of shampoo on your instep. Damn, my foot hurts just thinking about it!

5. How old do people say you look?

I practice a strict Don't Ask Don't Tell policy on this issue, as do most women over the age of 40 I think.

6. How old do you act?

I certainly don't behave the way I picture someone within 30 months of turning 50 should act. Then again, do I give one shit about the way I should act? Nope.

7. What’s the last song you sang?

I was probably mindlessly humming something or other yesterday. I do that, occasionally, when I clean.

8. Have you recently become a member of anything?

The Silver Anniversary Club count? Random Facebook groups? Or Google+? Otherwise, no.

9. What are your plans for next weekend?

Blessedly, NOTHING! We may do our mission trip review at church on Sunday, but otherwise we're doing 100% of nothing, the opposite of this weekend!

10. Do you kiss with your eyes open or closed?

Generally closed. I think?

11. Whats the sexiest thing about Sarah Palin?

I canNOT wait to see Bud's answer to this one! I don't find Sarah Palin sexy in the least, though she's at least better-looking than MANY other nutjob Republicans.

12. Who’s the sexiest famous woman alive?

I may not be the best person to ask this question, not being in the market for sexy women, but I do get the sense that Angelina Jolie exudes ... something for a lot of people.

13. Who’s the sexiest famous man alive?

Oh, I dunno. Johnny Depp. George Clooney. Bono. It really depends on what sort of thing turns you on.

14. Does your family have a crazy uncle?

Sparky has a crazy uncle; he's MY brother-in-law. He'll be here today. I'm embarrassed already.

15. Have you ever smuggled something into another country?

Hmm. Well, I don't know. Not intentionally, but there were probably some things I brought to the Soviet Union that they wouldn't have appreciated me disseminating had I chosen to do so. One of the guys in our group brought in a few Bibles, which were definitely black market at the time.

16. Do you live in a city with a good sports team?

I live in a village of about 7,000 people (and that's being generous). The city in which I work has under 30,000 people. So, no. But the teams in the Big City to the East are pretty good, some of them. Not that I care, except about football--and I cheer strongly against the local NFL franchise.

17. What is the most unusual?

The most unusual sports team? Really? I don't even know how to answer this, so I'll just say that the city where I work is the home of the state champion high school women's cross-country runner this year. And last year she was in the top ten. And she's a lovely girl whom I've known since she was about 7.

18. How do feel about the Goth people?

I'm pretty sure you're talking about the whole black eyeliner and combat boots fashion thing, right? They don't bother me; done to the extreme, they make me laugh, sometimes uncontrollably, which probably annoys them. If, on the off chance you're talking about the historical Goths, then I really don't have any feelings about them one way or another.

19. Can you fix or your significant other your own car?

Garble much? I can change tires, and keep up with the fluids in my car. Beast can fix an awful lot of stuff: he changes the oil regularly, and keeps repairing Sparky's brakes...those sorts of things.

20. Would you want to kill Casey Anthony yourself if you were guaranteed to get away with it?

Nope. I'm not really in the business of judgment or killing or retribution or whatever this question is about.

W.T.F.

(Link in meme-roll)
Googling how to get away with murder on Wednesday?

1) If you had a mind-reading ability but could only choose three people to read their minds, who would they be?

Ugh, I would hate being able to read people's minds!! But, having said that, I guess it would be a good thing to be able to read my boss's mind since she has trouble making any sense at all some days.

2) Do you listen to music that matches your mood or improves your mood? (Meaning when you're sad, do you listen to sad music that matches the mood or happy music to lift you up? Or, if you're angry, do you listen to angry music or soothing music to calm you down? And so forth...)

I generally listen to upbeat music, but if I'm angry I do listen to loud, angry music. But, it's a bad idea for me to listen to sad music when I'm sad.

3) Boy bands New Kids On The Block and Backstreet Boys have joined together to form a new band called NKOTBSB. What two musical acts would you like to combine efforts? (The musicians don't have to be currently popular, but they do, of course, need to be alive to be able to record new music.)

It would have been awesome if the Beatles and someone like Chuck Berry or some of the early black rock 'n roll groups had worked together.

4) July 1-7 is "Pleasure Week." What is a hobby that you find to be extremely pleasurable?

Meming. ;-)

5) The second week of July is "Nude Recreation Week." (Seriously. I couldn't make this sh*t up.) If you had the chance to go to a nudist resort for a free vacation, would you go?

Nope. Yuck. I'd have nightmares for months afterwards! Not to mention the months of nightmares I'd have before going!

6) Casey Anthony was found not guilty of murder in the death of her daughter on Tuesday. Do you think she got away with murder, or do you think she was innocent?

I think the jury probably found that the prosecution didn't prove their case, which is slightly different from Casey being 'not guilty.' She was, after all, found guilty of lying to the police. I wish our judicial system actually had a "Not Proven" option.

7) Which of Snow White's seven dwarfs describes you best and why? (Doc, Happy, Bashful, Sleepy, Sneezy, Grumpy, Dopey)

Bashful. Hard to believe, but it's either him or Dopey.

8) If I Googled your name what would I find?

You would find precisely 84 hits comprising hits from Facebook, Linked In, and assorted randomosity including our church newsletter (which pisses me the fuck off!).

9) What is more difficult for you -- looking into someone’s eyes when you are telling the person how you feel, or looking into someone’s eyes when they are telling you how they feel?

The former.

10) Have you ever swallowed something really strange? If so, what was it and how did things turn out for you?

Heh. No. One of my best friends swallowed a pin though, and she spent a couple of nights in the hospital just in case.

Cinn's Friday 5

(Link in meme-roll)
dream brightly for me...

[01] Have you ever committed an act of vandalism? What was it? Did you get caught?

I don't think so, though I suppose I may have written on a bathroom wall at some point. Beyond that, no. And I wasn't caught, obviously, since I don't even remember.

[02] Have you ever been on a trampoline?

When I was a child, I was a couple of times, but not recently. Not overly coordinated.

[03] Do you double dip your chip?

Only if I'm eating alone. At parties, no.

[04] What valuable skill has someone taught you? Who was that teacher?

Just one? The only reason I'm still functional is the sheer volume of valuable skills I've been taught. Let's go with reading, and my sister Jean taught me when I was 4.

[05] When is the last time you took a walk in the moonlight?

If walking across the hotel parking lot to pick up my family's take-out counts, then that would be last November.

Curious as a Cat

(Link in blogroll)

1) Imagine you had a job interview today. What would you wear to it?

I'd probably wear something similar to what I wore to my mother's memorial service a couple of weeks ago: black skirt, nylons, heels and a nice sweater or blouse.

2) If you could trade places with any of your friends, who would you choose?

I think I'll deal with my own situation rather than buggering up anyone else's, thanks.

3) Have you ever had something stolen from you or been the victim of a crime?

I am one of the fortunate people who can say that all crimes committed against me have been petty (in the legal sense) misdemeanors.

4) Show and Tell.

What comes to mind first when you see this picture? Or, tell a story if it reminds you of one.

Public Domain Photo

Two things:

1. When I was growing up in Denver, there was a lit cross on Lookout Mountain (I think) that was lit every night of the year. I have memories of watching that cross as we drove up my street where it crossed K[...] Ave., possibly because the view there was especially propitious. It is not anymore: a 7-story condo went up on that corner when I was in high school. sigh I have no idea if the cross is still there.

2. When I was on my way to the ALA conference in June of 2008, I arrived in Orange County in the late evening and took the hotel shuttle with a bunch of people I didn't know to a hotel I'd never seen. I was fairly nervous. It was comforting, as we turned off the freeway, to see a ginormous lit cross glowing to point our direction toward Anaheim. [I eventually found out it was the property of the Crystal Cathedral which somewhat dampened my ardor.]