Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll) 

Best Things to Talk About 

1. What is the craziest, most outrageous thing you want to achieve? 

I'd like to survive the current era so I can see things improve, so that I can have a sense of pride about something in my country again.

2. Have your parents influenced what goals you have? 

Of course they have. How could they not have done so? One way or another, we're all trying to live up to, or improve on, our parents. I think mine instilled some pretty decent values in us kids.

3. What is a fashion trend you’re glad went away. 

Super low-cut, tight jeans. Corsets. Having to wear high heels and a dress in public.

4. What word or saying from the past do you think should come back? 

"Oh for crying in the RAIN!" my dad said this all the time and I've begun using it instead of swearing out loud at work.

5. What do you bring with you everywhere you go? 

Chapstick. Some things never ever change. And also, more modern-like, my phone.

6. Is there such a thing as a soul? 

Yup. Having met a few people over the years without one, it's pretty fuckin' obvious when it's missing.

7. Is there life after death? 

Depends on your definition of "life." I think so, even if "life" is a matter of memories of those who knew you.

8. Do you think there will ever be a third world war? 

Of course. It will be different from anything seen heretofore, probably.

9. What smell brings back great memories? 

Pine tree bark. Did you know there are chocolate pines and vanilla pines?

10. How would you like to be remembered? 

Fondly. It would be nice if people just DID remember me, to be honest.

11. What kind of music are you into? 

I'll listen to anything. Right now I have The Long Winters cued up on Spotify. But I like everything from bagpipes to rap.

12. What is the biggest surprise of your life? 

How long it feels. How it can suck and be absurdly hilarious at the same time.

13. If you could eat only one thing for the rest of your life, what would it be? 

Lately, it seems like peanuts is all I eat. But if I could choose, it would probably be sweets, since they are severely limited these days.

14. Where is the most awe inspiring place you have been? 

Samarqand. Hard not to feel minuscule while surrounded by these ancient buildings:

15. Describe your life in six words.

Chaotic, quiet, untidy, frustrating, online, waiting.

Sunday Stealing x2

(Link in meme-roll)
Tea and Q&A

1. What is your middle name and what is a middle name you'd rather have instead? Why?

My middle name is biblical. It's fine, old-fashioned (obviously) but not horrible or weird. It's a little hard to say with my first name--too many repetitive sounds. The only name I'd change it for is my mom's middle name, which was Josephine.

2. How would you spend $1MM (you have to spend every penny!)

I'd pay off the mortgage. I'd pay Beast's bill at the nursing home for the next few years. I'd buy Sparky and me new cars. And I'd hire someone to come over EVERY DAMN DAY to help me sort through the shit in my house.

3. Yellow light - speed up or slow down??

I usually slow down. This is the only thing I got dinged on in my one-and-only road test; I sped up on a "stale green light."

4. What was the last movie you saw and what did you like/dislike about it?

The last movie I saw was the latest Star Wars thing. I'd like to go see Black Panther in the theater one of these days, soon.

5. If a movie was made about you, who would portray you in that movie?

I'd love Sandra Bullock to portray me. But Julia Roberts ' laugh is closer to mine.

6. What is the strangest thing you've eaten and what did it taste like?

There are some things I ate in foreign countries that I didn't inquire all that deeply about.

7. What color is your bathroom?

Builder white. At least the master bath is. The others have been painted; the other full bath is pale yellow, I think, and the powder room is pale green.

8. If you could vacation anywhere in the world RIGHT NOW, where would it be and why?

Somewhere warm. Greece? The Caribbean? I'm not all that fussy.

9. What is your least favorite thing to cook?

Anything complicated and fussy.

10. What is the dish you make that your family rolls their eyes at?

I have an absolutely AWFUL time with chicken; it virtually never gets cooked through the first time out of the oven.

11. What are three things on your bucket list?

I don't have a bucket list. I'd like to travel across the whole US in an RV, and I'd like to live in England for an extended period of time, and I'd like to have grandchildren someday.

12. How many skeins of yarn do you think you are currently hoarding?

Good yarn? None. I probably have about 3 skeins of dirt-cheap yarn around somewhere though.

13. Today is my birthday. What virtual gift are you going to give me?

The gift of my absence.

14. What is your favorite candy?

Twizzlers, Smarties, Skittles....not so much chocolate.

15. What is your favorite time of the day and why?

I love early mornings on days I don't have a shit-ton of work to do.

16. If you could call in sick for a day, what would you do with the time?

Sleep. Fill out forms. Visit Beast. Catch up.

17. How much did your last crafting run cost you?

Less than $15. My "crafting" is embroidery, so I just got a couple of floss packs.

18. Can you play a musical instrument and if so, which one?

I can figure out the tune on a piano with sheet music. I used to be able to play flute. And I play bells at church once in awhile.

19. What is your least favorite craft that you still do? Why?

If I'm not enjoying it, why the hell would I do it?

20. If you could have any job for just one day, what would it be and what would you do?

I'd love to be Queen of the World for one day and fire about 80% of the politicians in the world.

From Smellyann

1. What is more difficult for you, looking into someone’s eyes when you are telling someone how you feel, or looking into someone’s eyes when they are telling you how they feel.

I find it hard to look in people's eyes, period. It's just disturbing, unless I know you really really well, and I'm struggling to hear your voice.

2. Think of the last time you were REALLY angry. WHY were you angry? Do you still feel the same way?

I almost drove off the road in October when my sister said ... some things. I briefly lost my vision at 70 mph I was so gobsmacked. And yes, I'm still fucking pissed off at her.

3. You are on a flight from Honolulu to Chicago non-stop. There is a fire in the back of the plane. You have enough time to make one phone call. Who do you call? What do you tell them?

I'm calling Sparky. Beast no longer has access to a phone he can answer. And I'd apologize for dumping everything onto Sparky, still in a state of flux and confusion.

4. You are at the doctor’s office and she has just informed you that you have approximately one month to live. Do you tell anyone/everyone you are going to die? What do you do with your remaining days? Would you be afraid?

I would tell Sparky. I would probably tell my boss. And perhaps a couple of other people. And I'd bust my ass to get All The Things done so Sparky can figure it out without me.

5. You can have one of the following two things. Which do you choose? Why? Love and Trust.

Trust, because it's hard when you've gotten screwed to trust again.

6. You are walking down the street on your way to work. There is a dog drowning in the canal on the side of the street. Your boss has told you that if you are late just one more time you are fired. Do you take the time to save the dog’s life? Why? Why not?

I'm saving the dog's life. Fuck my boss if he can't figure out priorities like this. HOWEVER: I would never get to the point of being on that thin of a line at work, either. Responsibility is important.

7. Would you rather be hurt by the one you trust the most or the one you love the most?

Well, I've been destroyed by both. I think I'd rather have broken trust overall, but it's a pretty tight race and I'd rather not do either.

8. Your best friend confesses that he/she has feelings for you more than just friendship. He/she is falling in love with you. What do you (or did you) say?

"Forget it. I'm a mess right now and in no position to deal with more bullshit. Back off!" and then I'd disentangle myself from them because they aren't a good friend if they're fucking me up right now with this.

9. Think of the last person you know who died. You have the chance to give them 1 hour more of life back, but you have to give up one year of yours. Do you do it? Why? Or Why not?

Nope. Because I deserve my time and the person I'm thinking off is probably better off now.

10. Are you the kind of friend that you would want to have as a friend?

Maybe. I hope so. I try, but often fail, to be the friend I'd want to have.

11. Does love = sex?

Not usually.

12. Your boss tells your co-worker that they have to let them go because of work shortage, and they are the newest employee. You have been there much longer. Your co-worker has a family to support and no other means of income. Do you go to your boss and offer to leave the company? Why or Why not.

Nope. I too have a family to support and no other means of income.

13. When was the last time you told someone HONESTLY how you felt regardless of how difficult it was for you to say? What did you have to tell the person?

I don't pussy-foot around anymore. I tell people the truth, at least as much of it as I think they can deal with. I had to have the discussion with Beast today about why I'm not bringing him home. This comes up at least weekly. He was really angry and frustrated with me when I left tonight. My brother-in-law last week asked me quietly if he should hide any empty booze containers he found so Sparky wouldn't see them; no, there'll be none of that in this house! Never, ever again!

14. What would be (or what was) harder for you to tell a member of the opposite/same sex – you love them or that you do not love them back.

It's hard to tell someone that my feelings don't seem to be the same level of intensity as theirs, whichever direction. I find it shatteringly hard to say, "I don't really like you 'that way', sorry." But it's also painful to bust out with an "I Love You" and get slammed, but I guess I'd still rather do that. Most people are nice and don't make it into a worse situation than it absolutely has to be.

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
Angel (1998)
... because Bev recommended it
Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) Sarah McLachlan wrote this song about someone she barely knew. She read the obit of Jonathan Melvoin, keyboard player for the Smashing Pumpkins, who died of a heroin overdose. What's the most recent news story that touched you deeply?

I have actively and methodically spent the last 7 months trying to disengage my emotions from the news because otherwise I would be locked in a small padded room screaming. However, Dumpster's pronouncement re transgender people this week got my attention, and I'm so gratified to see so many people telling him to fuck right off about that. 

2) Ms. McLachlan performed this in tribute to Linda McCartney at the 1999 Concert for Linda. She was expressing her hope that, in death, Linda found relief and peace after a long and painful battle with cancer. What do you think happens to us when we die?

I'm pretty sure our souls do whatever souls do and move on and don't care about what stupid things we're up to back here. At least I really hope so. I think after death, we all deserve some fun and joy no matter what our lives were like.

3) Daytime dramas General Hospital and As the World Turns used this song on-air after a major character died. Do you follow any "soap operas?"

I used to watch GH when I was in high school, back just after the whole Luke and Laura storyline. And I worked with some DOOL fans who insisted on watching at lunch in the library workroom back in the 80s/90s. Since then, no.

4) In 2007, Sarah donated her recording of this song to the ASPCA. Do you have a pet? If yes, how did you get it (shelter, pet store, etc.)?

We've gotten all our guinea pigs at a pet store, except the three that were born here after our "two males" turned out to be a boy and a (pregnant) girl.

5) She admits she can't watch those ASPCA commercials, where her recording of "Angel" plays over sad photos of animals. Is there a TV commercial that really gets to you (in either a good or a bad way)?

Yeah, I don't even try to watch those or the "kids need help" ads. I leave the room, fast forward past them, or mute them. I do not need more guilt in my life.

6) In 1994, Sarah was stalked by an obsessed fan. Tell us about a time you were really frightened. In retrospect, was your fear commensurate with the threat?

Usually, I react with a little more drama that necessary. However, sometimes I'm fairly calm in the face of crisis. Fear? I'm usually not afraid till later.

7) Sarah was adopted by Jack and Dorice McLachlan. Though she has a friendly relationship with her birth mother, she always considered Dorice her mother and sees herself behaving with her son the way Dorice did with her. Is there anyone in your family that you feel you resemble, either physically or by behavior?

My mother and I were too similar in personality to ever get along well. I'm trying to develop more of my dad's traits as an adult, although he certainly had plenty of less-than-admirable habits. I got my temper from both of them; this is pretty much awful. I look just like my dad's mom, apparently, whom he also resembled.

8) McLachlan is one of the founders of Lilith Fair, a summer concert series designed to showcase talented female performers. Do/did your summer plans include an outdoor concert?

Nope. I don't do crowds, I rarely do concerts, and I really don't like outdoor concerts like this at all.

9) Random question: Which of these men would you most like to be seated with at dinner -- Clint Eastwood, Prince William or Jimmy Fallon?

Jimmy Fallon. I'd probably not be able to eat a bite from laughing, but what a hoot. Prince William...well, that would be mortifying, thanks! And Clint? Uhm. Maybe 30 or so years ago....

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
The Procrastination Tool Questions

1. What is your favorite sit-down restaurant?

Of the chain variety, it's Olive Garden. Of the local or one-off places, there are just too many. Some are good because they know what I'm going to order when I walk through the door, some are just unremittingly excellent in terms of quality food, some I like because of the location/view/memories. And some don't exist anymore. :'(

2. What food could you eat for 2 weeks straight and not get sick of it?

Pasta in all it's varieties.

3. Have you ever had anything removed from your body?

Heh. Yeah, I've had a couple of rather major surgeries. And then there's childbirth, which was not C-section, but the kid pretty much had to be yanked out forcefully.

4. What is the last heavy item you lifted?

Uhm. I hauled in 5 bags of groceries this morning in one trip. Before that, it was probably something at work last week.

5. Have you ever been knocked unconscious?

Nope. Thanks, I can pass on that. [Unless you mean anesthetic, of course]

6. If it were possible, would you want to know the day you were going to die?

Nope.

7. If you could change your name, what would you change it to?

I'd probably dump the last part. I wish I'd never added it. And no, it's not because I don't love my husband; I just don't like his last name.

8. What’s your goal for the year?

Survival. Get Beast fixed.

9. Last person you hugged?

Sparky when he arrived this morning.

10. First place you went this morning?

Uhm, the bathroom?

11. Do you always answer your phone?

I rarely answer my phone. I have ringtones set for people I want to talk to and otherwise just ignore the ring.

12. It’s four in the morning and you get a text message, who is it?

I'll let you know when I wake up in a couple of hours.

13. If you could change your eye color what would it be?

I like my eye color, actually.

14. What’s on your wish list for your birthday?

I will be needing some winter clothes at that point.

15. Does the future make you more nervous or excited?

Is "terrified" an option?

16. Do you have any saved texts?

I don't really delete texts too often. Maybe I should do some of that during the race today.

17. Ever been in a car wreck?

Yup. Nothing huge, no injuries, thank God.

18. Do you have an accent?

Of course I do. Everyone does.

19. What was the last song to make you cry?

I almost had to pull off the road listening to Kelly Clarkson's version of "It's Quiet Uptown" the other day. I was majorly ugly-crying.

20. What did you do last night?

Ordered pizza, noodled around online, not much.

21. Have you ever felt like you hit rock bottom?

Yeah. Yeah, I have.

22. Current hate right now?

Need I actually say it? I'm more than disappointed in our political representation these days.

23. Met someone who changed your life?

So MANY people!!

24. How did you bring in the New Year?

I have no idea. It's usually pretty boring around here. We just go to bed. The neighbors tend to set off fireworks, of course. Because fireworks go off all the time around here. "Look the sun came out!" "Look someone got a promotion!" "Look we have things to blow up for no reason!"

25. What song represents you?

I'll go with "Georgy Girl" because [insert long family story here].

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
The Cannon Fodder Questions

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

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

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

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

3. What are you listening to right now?

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

4. Are you a big fan of thunderstorms?

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

5. Do you believe in perfect?

Not in this world, nope.

6. Are you a jealous person?

Heh. No.

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

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

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

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

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

Yes.

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

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

11. Do you think men truly understand women?

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

12. How about women understanding men?

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

13. Did anybody ever call you handsome or beautiful?

Ha ha ha ha ha.

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

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

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

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

The Sassy Questions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

7. What is your biggest regret in life?

Not learning to fly a plane.

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

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

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

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

10. What will the epitaph on your headstone say?

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

From Amy

(This Amy)

What is more difficult for you, looking into someone's eyes when you are telling them how you feel, or looking into someone's eyes when they are telling you how they feel?

In general I prefer to look at people when THEY are talking. I'm easily distracted by facial tics and nonverbals and I'd never finish what I need to say if I looked at the reaction while I was saying it.

Think of the last time you were REALLY angry. WHY were you angry? Do you still feel the same way?

I really haven't been ANGRY for awhile. That's amazing to say! I spent much of 2014 and 2015 in a whirl of furious defensiveness and paranoia. I think the last time I really lost my shit at all was when someone at work got all condescending at me. It's the same person who always does that when put on the spot; I should know better than to rise to the bait after 20 years. However, to my credit, instead of stomping around and being childish, I simply said, "Please don't use that tone with me." She told me to "just go home." So I did.

You are on a flight from Honolulu to Chicago non-stop. There is a fire in the back of the plane. You have enough time to make ONE phone call. Who do you call? What do you tell them?

Are you kidding? In stressful moments, I can barely get my phone logged in, much less actually use it as a phone! By the time I get my brain sorted to do this, I'd be a crispy critter already. But thanks for that great thought as I prepare for an 8-hour flight on Monday...

You are at the doctor’s office and he has just informed you that you have approximately one month to live. Do you tell anyone/everyone you are going to die? What do you do with your remaining days? Would you be afraid?

If it's going to mean a noticeable decline over that month, I'd have to tell people: Beast, Sparky, work. If it meant dropping dead suddenly I'd probably make sure my insurance was paid up, my will and burial wishes were clear and findable, and then get on a plane to someplace lovely.

You can have one of the following two things. Which do you choose? Why? - Love and Trust.

I don't think you can have either without the other. It's a little symbiotic. However, since I've actually been thinking about what trust means in my life lately, I'll take the love, as in GIVING it to others. I guess I'd rather receive trust.

You are walking down the street on your way to work. There is a dog drowning in the canal on the side of the street. Your boss has told you if you are late even once more, you are fired. Do you take the time to save the dog's life? Why or why not?

Weirdly, I just heard about something like this scenario being put to the test at a seminary, and most everyone failed. Massively. So while I say I'd stop and do something for the dog, I am realistic enough to know that I probably wouldn't. That's assuming I even noticed the situation in the first place!

Would you rather be hurt by the one you trust the most or the one you love the most?

I'd really rather not be hurt, honestly. Having been hurt regularly and most often by someone I thought I could trust, whom I also love, I will say that the failure in trust is a difficult blow. I know he still loves me.

Your best friend confesses that he/she has feelings for you, more than just friendship. He/she is falling in love with you. What do you (or did you) do/say?

I'd ask for a chance to think and then I'd shut up so I didn't say anything hurtful. This does mean different things depending on which friend we're talking about. Frankly, for most of my besties, it would be odd after this many years to find that out.

Think of the last person who you know that died. You have the chance to give them 1 hour of life back, but you have to give up one year of yours. Do you do it? Why or why not?

The last person I know who died didn't necessarily deserve an hour of extra time.... The last person that I love who died would kill me for doing something like this, so I'd be sacrificing a lot more (I hope) than a year!

Are you the kind of friend that you would want to have as a friend?

If this question was reworded to read "Am I a good friend to myself?" I would say that generally yes and improving.

Does love = sex?

Absolutely not! Some love sometimes includes some kind of sexual component, but most love a lot of the time has zero to do with sex.

Your boss tells your coworker that they have to let them go because of work shortage, and they are the newest employee. You have been there much longer. Your coworker has a family to support and no other means of income. Do you go to your boss and offer to leave the company? Why or why not?

Nope. Because I like my job and the newest employee at my workplace couldn't do what I do, so that would be a ridiculous thing to do.

When was the last time you told someone HONESTLY how you felt regardless of how difficult it was for you to say? Who was it? What did you have to tell the person?

I am not exactly shy about this. And I'm learning to be much more up front, but less confrontational, about this kind of thing. Better to get it dealt with now that wait for it to fester.

What would be (or what was) harder for you to tell a member of the opposite sex, you love them or that you do not love them back?

I really struggled to say "I love you" when I was younger because my family doesn't haul that one out and use it very often. On the other hand, I seem to have had no problem being mean; my family is better at that...?

What do you think would be the hardest thing for you to give up? Why would it be hard to lose?

My independence.

Excluding romantic love, when was the last time you told someone you loved them. Who were they to you?

I think I texted a friend this yesterday. She had some family stuff going on, and she is just a kind person and she says it all the time too.

If there was one moment and one time in the last month what would you change and why?

Whatever one moment I choose, I'm virtually certain it would involve shutting up this time around.

Imagine it is a dark night, you are alone, it is raining outside, you hear someone walking around outside your window. WHO do you wish was there with you?

The police. Whom I would have already called.

Would you give a homeless person CPR if they were dying? Why or why not?

Of course. Because being homeless doesn't preclude someone's right to have a life.

You are holding onto your grandmother’s hand and the hand of a newborn that you do not know as they hang over the edge of a cliff. You have to let one go to save the other. Who do you let fall to their death? What was your rationale for making the decision?

My grandmother has been dead longer than the author has been alive. Save the baby.

Are you old fashioned?

Yes. Except in terms of gender roles. Unless that could be interpreted as Ancient Fashioned.

When was the last time you were nice to someone and did NOT expect anything in return for it?

At work. Every damned day. I expect very very little from my public service interactions, so every time someone doesn't yell at me or talk nonsense to me or otherwise act weird, I'm very grateful.

Which would you choose, true love with a guarantee of a broken heart, or never loved at all? Why?

I'll always go for love. Why would you only get one chance at love? We have multiple chances for love every fucking day!

If you could do anything or wish anything, what would it be?

I would really love for people to CALM THE FUCK DOWN and stop taking everything so damned personally. The world does not revolve around any single one of us. Get real and get over it.

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)
I Want To Be Famous Meme

1. Would you like to be famous? In what way?

I'd like to be famous for being the least famous person ever. In other words, I have no interest at all in ever being "known."

2. Before making a telephone call, do you ever rehearse what you are going to say? Why?

I do, whenever I'm calling a business I've never called. Also whenever I call the insurance company, or to ask a favor. I don't want to sound like an idiot, and I want to make sure I cover all the points needed.

3. What would constitute a "perfect" day for you?

A sunny warm day in the mountains of Colorado, just looking at scenery, listening to wind and animals, and soaking it up.

4. When did you last sing to yourself? To someone else?

I sing to myself regularly. If I were at work listening to music without headphones, it would be a daily occurrence. I believe I probably warbled at a coworker Friday, believe it or not; I remember because she commented on it. Really singing? Probably something with Sparky or Beast, though I don't remember anything specific.

5. If you were able to live to the age of 90 and retain either the mind or body of a 30-year-old for the last 60 years of your life, which would you want?

Mind, with some stipulations. I don't want to go down the road my sister traveled with MSA. I'd prefer to keep mind AND body at a similar status level throughout my life.

6. Do you have a secret hunch about how you will die?

No clue. Hopefully fast and relatively painlessly, since I'm allergic to morphine.

7. For what in your life do you feel most grateful?

God.

8. If you could change anything about the way you were raised, what would it be?

I would have a better personal relationship with my mom. I wish we'd sorted out our differences.

9. If you could wake up tomorrow having gained any one quality or ability, what would it be?

The ability to keep my opinions to myself!

10. If a crystal ball could tell you the truth about yourself, your life, the future or anything else, what would you want to know?

Nope, not interested.

11. What does friendship mean to you?

Give and take. Compromise. Loyalty. Laughter. Shared history.

12. What roles do love and affection play in your life?

I'm not sure I even understand that question. It's important for me to feel safe and loved and I like people who aren't afraid to let those feelings show. Is that what we're looking for here?

13. When did you last laugh?

I've been laughing at the post-match coverage of Wimbledon pretty regularly. If I were Djokovic's wife, I'd be pretty jealous of that trophy!

14. Are you a morning person or a night owl?

Morning. Although with my current psycho sleep schedule, mornings pretty much suck. I'm usually awake between 1 and 3 a.m., so I guess that's still morning though, right?

15. Seen anything weird lately?

Every day at work, yes. Actually, yesterday Beast found all his mom's parent's jewelry--in a paper bag in a drawer, so secure--and went through it. One ring is quite odd. It's an asymmetrical circle, looks like a crystal made of silver, is studded with small diamonds, and is probably 3/4" around. So weird. I did snag a hematite ring from the stash that I actually like, by most of the rest is way too showy and huge for my taste.

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
The One Thing Meme

One Thing .....
that makes you smile: silly kids.

that makes you cry: dead kids.

that you love to do on the weekends: not set an alarm. Hasn't happened this week though....

that you do for only yourself: this thing right here.

that you have in your underwear drawer that's NOT underwear: ...uhm, air? The only that fits in my underwear drawer is underwear.

that you do before going to sleep: take off my glasses and pull up the blankets.

that you do within the first 15 minutes after waking: look at the clock.

that's in your purse: ....I don't use a purse, but I have lots of random cards in my wallet: business cards, loyalty cards, etc.

that you actually LIKE to clean: dishes. I like the camaraderie of washing and drying together.

that you DETEST cleaning: not a huge fan of mopping/sweeping/vacuuming floors.

that other people would find odd about you: I'm 51 years old and sitting on the couch with my feet under me like someone half my age. I can't sit in a chair properly even at work. I prefer sitting curled up, or on the floor.

that you would buy if I handed you a $100 bill: ...maybe a green blouse for Tuesday.

that you feel you HAVE to do before you die: finish God's purpose for me.

Patrick's Place

(Link in meme-roll)
Saturday Six
....the last one....new things ahead next week....

1. What epitaph would you like to have engraved on your tombstone?

One strong contender: "I hate publishers!" I say it an awful lot. Otherwise: "Leave me alone and let me sleep." I can be snarky about it because I really have no intention to be buried. Take the organs that are usable, and then either cremate me or send me off for medical research.

2. If you could be certain that there is an afterlife, what would you want heaven to be like?

I would hope all the people I love are there, those that have gone on before me. Otherwise, I don't much care. I'll gladly leave the details to the Big Guy.

3. If you could bring back a deceased relative you knew in your childhood back today to have a conversation with, whom would you choose and why?

I'd love to have a long conversation with either one of my grandmothers: Grandma before she went goofy at the end, and Nannie...well, anytime. I think she was pretty coherent up to the end. I wonder if they'd answer questions honestly. I have tons.

4. Do you consider death to be more of an ending or more of a beginning?

Both.

5. Do you ever feel as if you “hear” from people you know who have died, as if by hearing “their voice” or sensing an insight that you don’t think you would have gained on your own?

I heard Dad several months after he died. Just the once. That was enough. He wasn't happy with me. I'm sure several of them have surrounded me in the worst of the years since they died, keeping me safe and sane, and sending me book recommendations.

6. Aside from your epitaph, how do you hope those who have been closest to you in your life will truly remember you?

I hope they know I tried my best, did more good than evil, and worked very hard to become the person God intended me to be.

Saturday 9

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

1) Recorded by Johnny Cash, "Ring of Fire" was written by his wife, June Carter. Johnny's daughter Roseanne says it's about "the transformative power of their love." What's your favorite love song?

"The Sweetest Thing" (U2), and I love the video too. I mean, really...how can you not?

2) Though more than 50 years old, this song is still popular today. Country Music Television named it one of the best and most requested of all time. Are you a country music fan?

"I like both kinds of music: Country and Western!" OK, not really, but I don't mind a short round of country, or country-pop once in awhile.

3) This recording features mariachi horns, inspired by Mexican folk music. Have you ever been to Mexico?

Yes I have, about 33 years ago, when the peso exchange rate was about 25 to a dollar. So, a LOOOOOOONG time ago. I don't think we heard any mariachi music while we were there, but I grew up in the Denver area so I heard it a lot at home. Not in my home, but around. Yknow....

4) Cash's birth certificate said, "J. R. Cash," and "J.R." is what his parents always called him. When he enlisted in the Air Force, Uncle Sam refused to let him simply go by initials, so he chose the name "John." If you could choose a different name for yourself, what would it be?

I'd love to use my mother's middle name. It's a great name, but she always hated it for some reason. It was the name of an aunt of hers, whom she loved, so I've never understood her hate. And it was hate.

5) Cash and his first wife, Vivian, had their first date at a roller skating rink. Tell us about one of your first dates.

My first actual date was to see a movie, but I'm not sure I remember which one. He drove his tiny 70s-era Honda (his was reddish), and a tire went flat on the way to the theater, on a very busy four-lane boulevard in Denver. Although he was always talking about fixing cars, this particular vehicle didn't have a jack (though it did have a spare!), so I had to hold the rear of the car up while he changed out the tire. Yes. I did that. He was mortified and couldn't believe how not-upset I was. I even went out with him again!

6) Cash died in September, 2003, four months after he lost his second wife, and love of his life, June. The cause of death given was complications from diabetes, but his children believe he died of a broken heart. Do you think that's possible?

Of course I think it's possible; it's actually well-documented fact.

7) Cash was known as "The Man in Black." What color do you wear most often?

I wear an awful lot of brown and blue and other earth-ish tones.

8) There's a Johnny Cash Museum in Nashville. What's the last museum you visited?

Wow. Hmm. I can't actually remember! It's been several years, and it might have been the British Museum the last time we were in London several years ago now. No, wait, we met family at a train museum last summer. Didn't really do a lot except chit-chat though; it's mostly outdoors, and since the group included two train buffs and a small child, it was pretty easy.

9) A stretch of Tennessee Highway 31E is known as "Johnny Cash Parkway." What street in your town is named for a famous person?

I don't think anything in the town where I lived is named for anyone in particular (that I'm aware of), but there are the usual "Lincoln", "Jefferson" and "Washington" streets in the town where I work, as well as local city fathers. And one cartoonist. Because that's the way people here roll.

More Halloween Blogthings

Your Halloween Style is Cute

Your ideal Halloween costume is comfy, fun, and low key. You are attracted to costumes that are sweet and even adorable. You always wear something that's easy to move in and easy to wear. You don't want to spend Halloween night being uncomfortable. Your favorite costumes remind you of childhood or things that you love. You're the type to dress up as a stuffed animal, action hero, or even a big baby. And it just so happens that your favorite cute costumes are also the warmest. You'd hate to be shivering on Halloween!

What's Your Halloween Style?

What IS it with the "sweet" (and "cute") BS in these quiz results today?! If I were planning to dress up, though, this sounds about right.+ + + + + + + + + + +

You Live a Rugged Life

You are a curious and active person. You are afraid of boredom, and you can become impatient with routine. You seek out new and exciting experiences. You learn best from novelty and from pushing yourself a bit. You would like to be remembered for your daredevil ways and the adventure you brought others. You do your best to make life as lively as possible, and you hope your friends and family can appreciate that.

The Sugar Skull Test

Not really, no. I'm not a daredevil. Frankly, none of these skulls did it for me. They were all too plain, while also not being grim enough.

Patrick's Place

(Link in meme-roll)
Saturday Six Two-Fer

For [the first six] questions, assume you've just read the morning paper and spotted a false report of your own death.
1. Who would be the first person close to you whom you'd call to set the record straight?

I'd call the editor of our local weekly paper, with whom I "do" Bible Study every week, and who goes to my church. Actually, she wouldn't have published it, because she would've known I wasn't dead.

2. Would you call the newspaper to dispute the report before or after calling the person you named in Question 1?

Don't think I'd need to call her paper. And frankly, the local daily screws so much up on a regular basis that I'd just let it go and see who-all checked in with us; might be an interesting test-case.

3. Would you be tempted to play along with the situation and show up somewhere that you knew people who thought you'd died would be, just to see their reaction?

I might not correct it, but I also wouldn't do anything like this, or like showing up at "my funeral." That just creeps me the fuck out right there!

4. Would you go online to read comments if you knew your newspaper's website had such a place for people to leave memories of you?

Oh, wouldn't that be tempting? But no...I'm really trying to wean myself away from reading comments sections in newspapers. Now, if I could just train myself to do that for other online news sites like NPR and Huff Post, my life would be awesome.

5. If you could find an honest listing of such memories and thoughts from people who knew you, would you expect the comments to be all positive, all negative, mostly positive, mostly negative, or in the middle?

OK, seriously, who writes mean stuff in memorial books?? Even if they are 100% honest, no one is going to go into 'that one time' I hollered at someone's kid, or 'those other times' when I was a bitch. I may not be perfect, and I may not have perfect friends, but I really believe that no one I know would troll my obit.

6. If you were to see your obituary, would you hope that your true age was or wasn't mentioned?

I don't give even the tiniest shit if people know how old I am. Here it is folks: I'm turning 50 in less than 3 months. Suck it.

= = = = = = = = = = = = = =

1. You want a nice sit-down dinner you know you'll enjoy at a restaurant and you're alone: which local restaurant are you likely to choose?

Panera, maybe, or Izzy's or Six Balls.

2. Which dish are you most likely to order and why?

Panera's going to be soup in a bread bowl. Izzy's or Six Balls...dunno. Maybe a salad? Maybe just dessert (Izzy's has a display case of desserts that is killer).

3. Now you have the chance to entertain someone visiting from out of town: which restaurant are you likely to choose and why?

The Pub? We don't really have any fancy restaurants around here. We could, I suppose, take someone to The Mill (where Sparky worked while he was in high school)--in fact, we have taken guests there--but now that we know about the kitchen conditions from Sparky....maybe not.

4. Which dish from a restaurant have you most diligently tried to duplicate in your own kitchen?

I have never, ever, not once, done this. OK, I can whip up Chicken Masala Tikka like any good English takeaway joint, but that's like saying I make burgers like McDonald's does.

5. How close have you come to matching the flavors of restaurant chefs you've tried to emulate?

My burgers taste nothing like McDonald's burgers, and my tikka doesn't really taste like takeaway tikka. [Wow, say that last bit a few times fast, for fun!] Food made in bulk just doesn't taste the same as food made for a family meal.

6. What's your favorite drink — it can be alcoholic or non-alcoholic — to have with a nice dinner?

A 'nice' dinner calls for good wine, usually a pinot grigio or a gewurtz. Otherwise, at a not-so-nice, or at least less fancy, place I'll just have a V&T, or V-rocks, with a lime twist.

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
The 5000 Question Meme Continues... Part Six

121. Have you ever lost someone without having the chance to say goodbye?

Yes. My dad. I learned a great deal from that though, and now quite often when I say goodbye at the end of a visit, I mean "Goodbye, just in case this is it." Twice it has been.

122. How do you feel about women in politics?

This is a ridiculous question. The same as men in politics, I don't "feel" any particular way about it; I just hope they're doing their jobs well.

123. Would you rather have an indoor Jacuzzi or an outdoor pool?

Jacuzzi. Though to be honest I have a dream of putting a hot tub on our back porch. After enclosing it, of course. ;-)

124. What things are you interested in that you study or read about regularly?

Early Church history. And I like realistic mysteries.

125. Would you consider yourself to be intelligent?

Yes.

126. Would you consider yourself to be wise?

I have moments. They are fleeting, but pleasant.

127. Have you ever given or received a lap dance?

No.

128. Have you ever spoken to a homeless person?

Of course I have. I speak to them regularly. I would even speak to them if they didn't come in the library every day.

129. Would you ever creep into the subway tunnels to go exploring?

Sure. Not around here--there's no subway except sewers.

130. If you could add 70 years to your life but only by making some random person die 70 years sooner would you?

No. Why would I want to live that long?

131. Can you identify any of the following lyrics?

A: Nothing to kill or die for...

Yes, Mr. Lennon, I'm aware of your song.

B: Late comings with the late comin' stretcher...

No clue.

C: I could make a film and make you my star...

Ugh, no. I don't specifically recognize this one, but I'm familiar with the sentiment.

132. Are you worried about North Korea?

In a vague way. I can't really take them seriously, but I guess I should stop that.

133. Would you rather be a world political leader or a talk-show host?

Talk-show host. No contest. I have no interest in being in charge of anything political.

134. Have you ever given someone a love letter that you wrote?

Yes. Back in the day I actually wrote letters semi-regularly.

135. Have you ever sent someone a surprise though the mail?

Yes. Her daughter had to remind her who I was. lol

136. Are you looking forward to any dates right now? Vacation perhaps?

Not really. I'd like to be done with this class, and I'm kinda noodling stuff around for Beast's and my 50th birthdays later this year...and of course Katherine's baby's birth in the summer. That's it for this year.

137. Of all animated movies, which is the best one you've ever seen?

I love "The Lion King." Gosh, I should totally get that out and re-watch it.

138. What are the best bands or songs to listen to while driving?

John Mellencamp, Billy Joel, .fun, Queen, random boyband stuff... Anything with a solid beat and lyrics that are sing-along-y.

139. What do you think is the most amazing thing that anyone has ever accomplished?

ANYONE?! Are you fucking serious?? This question is insane, so I'm going with an insane answer: I'm watching Hardcore Pawn right now, and the most amazing thing is that no one has gotten shot (yet).

140. What could a member of the opposite sex do to impress you?

Be himself. Be charming without an ulterior motive. Be funny, but not mean. Be helpful but not pushy. This goes for anyone, not just guys, by the way.

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
Good Morning, Heartache

1) Do you come up with your brightest ideas early in the morning or late at night?

Not so early in the morning, but morning for sure.

2) Are you more likely to feel romantic at night or in the morning?

That seems to have nothing to do with time whatsoever.

3) Do you shower in the morning, after work or before bed?

Morning is for showers, in general. Bedtime is for a long soak in the tub.

4) Billie Holiday was just 44 when she died. Is there an artist whose early demise surprised and saddened you?

Early death of erratic musical geniuses doesn't surprise me at all. Speaking broadly of 'artists' I was saddened particularly at Heath Ledger's death a few years ago.

5) Billie was known as "Lady Day." Do you have a cool nickname? (If not, feel free to give yourself one right now.)

Does "Cat." count? Otherwise, I have no nicknames whatsoever, unless "Mom" is a nickname?

6) When was the last time you had the blues?

Not feeling too joyful today, or yesterday. Actual "blues" though...probably a few weeks on that draggy awful feeling.

7) Crazy Sam is eating Trader Joe's Snickerdoodles as she composes this. What's the last snack food you ate?

Huh, you caught me: I just had breakfast "dessert" of a Lofthouse iced sugar cookie. Orange on top. Yum.

8) Do you worry about preserving endangered species? Or do you believe in survival of the fittest?

Yes. Both. I totally believe in the latter because it's what happens, yo. It would be a shame if humans killed off some of the pretty animals, but I also know things will be ok eventually.

9) Would you ever hire a lawyer who runs commercials on TV? Do you know anyone who has?

Nope. I have my pick of attorneys, actually. Never thought I'd say I had so many friends who are lawyers!

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
Who Are you? Part 3 & 4 – Is it over yet?

Part 3: Past
34. What do you consider the most important event of your life so far?

The one that changed me the most was the five years from 1993 through 1997. Baby, move to a new state and no outside-the-home employment, death of two family members, surgery, other medical issues. It sucked, but wow did I learn a lot.

35. What do you consider your greatest achievement?

Surviving all that without getting stuck in the middle of things (for too long).

36. What is your greatest regret?

That I didn't spend more time with Ellen before she died, and that I didn't take more (and better) photos of Sparky with my dad before he died.

37. What is the most evil thing you have ever done?

My evil doings tend to be fairly small-scale, but (unfortunately) daily. The one thing I wish I could undo is not being very nice to a very strange girl in my high school English classes.

38. When was the time you were the most frightened?

I have the gift of not being aware of how out-of-control dangerous a situation really is until after I've extricated myself, or someone else has extricated me. Probably the one time I was in the most danger physically was when I slid off a wet road in the rain a few years ago, tore through a farmhouse's front yard, avoided the massive tree trunks, and got back up on the road surface with no damage to anything but their lawn. I did have to pull over for a few minutes and gather my wits before I could continue home.

39. What is your best memory?

I'm fortunate to have too many from which to choose.

Part 4: Beliefs And Opinions
40. Are you basically optimistic or pessimistic?

Optimistic for the most part, with a strong self-protective cynical streak.

41. What is your greatest fear?

Any of my recent dreams coming true. Not that they've been particularly bad, though a few have been, but they have all been so completely strange that if they actually occurred, it would mean that I'd have gone completely crazy.

42. What are your religious views?

To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with God.

43. State a random opinion?

Does it have to be my random opinion? ;-)
I think it's pretty hypocritical for those who are voting to decrease government spending to get upset when their personal benefits get cut.

44. What are your views on sex?

I'm for it.

45. Are you able to cook?

There's some question of that, but tonight's dinner was pretty damn good: black bean bake with cheesy tortillas baked inside.

46. In your opinion, what is the most evil thing any human being could do?

Forget that any one of the rest of us are human too.

47. Do you believe in the existence of soul mates and/or true love?

Don't really think I believe in soul-mates. I definitely believe in love of all kinds.

48. What do you believe makes a successful life?

Being able to see possibilities for good in any situation and working to make it occur.

49. How honest are you about your thoughts and feelings?

Mostly, I'm very honest. Too honest, many would say. I'm what you might call "excitable." Or worse...

50. Do you have any biases or prejudices?

Of course I do. Who doesn't? I try to be aware of them. Sometimes I don't realize they're there until I say or do something completely stupid, though.

51. Is there anything you absolutely refuse to do under any circumstances? Why do you refuse to do it?

I don't think I could carry out a long-term, planned assault on an innocent person. I probably couldn't kill anyone, unless it was heat-of-the-moment and in the course of defending myself or my loved ones. I could NOT plot out any kind of demeaning, hurtful, torture for someone, though. Not for real.

52. Who or what, if anything, would you die for (or otherwise go to extremes for)?

I would hope that I'd be willing to die to protect my loved ones, and the beliefs for which I stand.

Curious as a Cat

(Link in meme-roll)

1) When are you at your best?

I actually do best when I'm under pressure, when I absolutely have to suck it up and perform.

2) What albums did you listen to the most while growing up?

Pick a 50s musical, any 50s musical! My Fair Lady, Sound of Music, The Music Man...all memorized before I was 8. Also, a Reader's Digest set of music, S&G's Bookends album, and Jesus Christ Superstar which I pretty much knew by heart before I was teenaged. And then there's A Chorus Line, Evita, Godspell....

3) If God was about to send a thunder bolt down to earth to strike someone dead, who would you wish for it to be?

I wouldn't really want to wish someone dead, but if we could have some major electronic hassle happening to the Republican Party for the next...oh...25 or so weeks, I'd be ok with that.

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'm actually watching American Pickers right now, so this fits right in. Also, it reminds me of the area in Colorado where my oldest sister lives: lots of apple and peach orchards. Not New Zealand, but oh well. Now I'm hungry for a fresh apple....

Patrick's Place

(Link in meme-roll)
Sunday Seven

Name seven the "worst things in the world" that would top your list. [based on this list--which I didn't find humorous in the least, so I'll be answering with what I think are actually the worst things in the world, sorry]

In no particular order....

1. Starving children
   
   
   
   
   
2. Illness and disease
   
   
   
   
   
3. Abuse
   
   
   
   
   
4. Greed
   
   
   
   
   
5. Hatred and bigotry
   
   
   
   
   
6. War and murder
   
   
   
7. Any kind of cruelty or neglect (physical/mental/emotional, to any living creature)
   
   
   

Thursday 13

(Link in meme-ro
Random Thoughts

1. Three close friends have had family pass away this month. Today we got news of one of our long-time library supporters' death. Can we puh-leeeeze be done now?


2. Three friends' cars have died or been killed this week. Is there something in the air?


3. One of my coworker's spent the last three days dealing with hives on her face. She's never had allergies before, so she's a little confused. The kicker? She told me today, "I've never taken Benadryl before this; I didn't know that it would put me OUT for the afternoon!" Whereas I've taken so much I'm immune to that at this point.


4. A blood glucose reading of 260 is really fuckin' high.


5. I walked in the house from work tonight to Beast asleep in the recliner (not a surprise) with the TV on (also not a surprise) showing "Access Hollywood" (THAT is a surprise!). Not that he was watching it. Guess I"m getting my gossip fill for the week  month year.


6. I have cataloged over 60 "for Dummies" books this week. I think I might be allergic to yellow covers on books.


7. Bob Mould has written his autobiography. I'm guessing only 80's music trendies, college radio fanatics from that era, and people from Minnesota have a clue who he is. In the picture on the page to which I just linked, he looks a great deal like a good friend's brother (pictures of him--I've never met him).


8. No, it's not Ash Wednesday. Nor is it Palm Sunday. But based on those questions I know getting up the stairs is going to be ... interesting.


9. I wish there was a dipstick for mental fatigue. Then again, maybe I don't.


10. Thank GOD for "Ghost Whisperer." Totally cotton candy, and I definitely need it tonight.


11. Memes. They're good tonight. I do NOT want to think.


12. The verdict is that my hair is cute. And it makes me look "years" younger. I clearly looked like the Wicked Witch of the West prior to getting my hair cut.


13. My high school band director has reconstituted the Facebook group for band alumni. There are 5 or 6 people who do nothing but post comments on it all day. Reading their posts, and looking at the pictures people have dug up and posted, makes me miss high school. Well, ok, band. But I'm pretty glad I'm not as hung up on it as those 5 or 6 people.

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
Come Dancing

1. When was the last time that you went out dancing?

I'm pretty sure I've never in my life "gone out dancing." The only time I have danced in my life has been at weddings or at college school-sponsored music events.

2. Have you ever had an argument with a teacher?

Of course. It's part of learning to grow up. I'm not sure I (or the other people in the class with whom I agreed) won, but the teacher didn't come back the next year....

3. Do you have a tough time remembering people’s names?

YES! I'm horrible at this! I have to see it written down, preferably with that person standing next to me, to remember.

4. Would you rather change your past or know your future?

Neither, though I would like to know in general terms how long we're stuck with the current boss at work. I suppose it would be nice to know what Beast's back will be like next year this time.

5. What’s one thing you feel you must do in your life before it ends?

Read every good book. Yup, I'm set up to never die!

6. How many credit cards do you have right now that have a zero balance?

We never carry a balance on credit, or if we do, it's only for a month or so. Also, we only have one traditional 'credit card'--the other two are debit-as-credit.

7. What is the most expensive thing you purchased this year?

I'm going to go out on a limb here and say two ambulance rides for Beast. Those probably total more than we've paid for Sparky's second semester at college, but both are probably right up there in the stratosphere.

8 . If you're married, this probably doesn't apply to you, but: Are you mindful about getting tested for STDs/HIV at least semi-regularly? Why/why not? Married people: Were you mindful about this type of thing when you were single? Why/why not?

When I was (last) single--that would be 1986 for those keeping track of this stuff--AIDS was still pretty new. Everything else was pretty treatable, but we were all pretty clear on the ability of condoms to prevent a large majority of what I grew up calling venereal diseases.

9. If you could ask the president of the United States one question, what would it be?

"Where do you keep your Secret List of People You Can't Stand?" That way I could go see how closely it matches mine, in terms of politics.