Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
Alec Clayton

1. If there's a personal god, what quality would you most like that person to have (and why)?

This question confuses me. Maybe I'm out of practice on answering questions. I'm going to answer, instead, what is the most important to me quality of God. That is, especially this week, that he is always there, always reliable, always forgiving, always putting up with whatever my current attitude is. That is big.

2. What's your death-row meal?

There would be pasta. Basically a good Italian meal, with wine and cheese and meat and fruit and bread and good dessert, all perfectly cooked.

3. Assuming we make it through this outbreak with minimal loss of life, what do you think our big takeaway should be?

We need to take care of each other.
(but I'm not optimistic in the Big Picture; OTOH, my local community is absolutely wonderful)

4. Whom do you find yourself missing more than you would've predicted?

Well, I dreamed last night about two of my three sisters, which was weird since one of them is dead and the other one I think just shows up, with her husband, to irritate me. In the last month, I've also dreamed about my mom regularly, a first since she died 10 years ago, and holy crap do I miss being able to sit with Beast and kick him into gear!!

5. What brings you the most joy? Not happiness, not contentment -- JOY.

Laughter. Real laughter: silliness, giggling, gut-busting. Doesn't have to be me laughing: watching it on Zoom or YouTube works almost as well.

6. Do you find yourself regretting anything you've said or done on social media?

Only everything.

7. What are your favorite and least favorite things about your body and face?

Least favorite: size. Favorite: its sturdiness, my toes, my hair, my mouth.

8. ...and your life?

Least favorite: Let me count the ways, but the big one is not being able to see (or help) Beast in any way. Favorite: my job, my friends (I'm very lucky), my house.

9. How's the self-isolation affecting your libido?

ha ha ha ha....my husband's been in a nursing home now for over 2 years. What libido?

10. Which three places in the physical universe would you most like to visit?

The Valley of the Kings, all of Australia, Mars.

11. On whom did you have a crush years ago? Have you ever told them?

So many... Some of them know and we laugh about it. Some I'll take to the grave.

12. How have your religious views changed since you were in high school?

I'd like to hope I've gotten kinder and more understanding of others.

13. If you could change one law, what would it be?

Can we just legalize cannabis everywhere in the U.S. for crying out loud! I'm not even going for a big one here, just this.

14. If you could add one commandment to the original ten, what would it be?

"Pull your head out of your ass!"

Saturday 9

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

1) This song contains many weather references (clouds, rainbows, sunshine, rain). How's the sky where you are today?

Absolutely gorgeous! Blue sky, low humidity, slightly cooler. Perfect fall day. I spent almost 4 hours in the car, so I'm glad it was a good day.

2) Bobby Sherman sings that when he's alone, he imagines his "Little Woman" is right there beside him. Do you often daydream?

Yeah. All the time.

3) Bobby had a very bright smile. Do you ever use whiteners on your teeth?

I did for a short period a few years ago, until I decided I'd rather have enamel than white teeth.

4) He was beloved for his shiny hair. If we were to peek in your bathroom, how many haircare products would we find?

Far too many! I only have my shampoo & conditioner in the shower, but Beast's is there too. And I've got stuff stashed in the cupboard that will probably last me until I die.

5) After high school, Bobby attended Pierce, a community college in the west San Fernando Valley. For culinary students, Pierce offers courses in canning -- specifically apples and peaches. If we were to peek into your pantry, would we find canned fruits?

Yup. Not home-canned, mind you, but some Dole, etc.

6) As an actor, one of Bobby's earliest performances was on the TV show Honey West. That series revolved around a female "private eye" adept at martial arts. Do you have any self-defense moves (that don't involve a weapon)?

My glare stops most people in their tracks. My boss literally stepped-off when I leveled it at him (by accident) one time. Also, I've literally never heard of this show!

7) In 1966, Bobby did this rather energetic commercial for milk. Do you often enjoy a glass of milk?

I rarely enjoy milk--in fact there is rarely ever milk in my fridge. I gave up a few months ago and bought a container of powdered milk to use in cooking because otherwise I just throw out container after container of expired milk.

8) When his show business career waned, he became a paramedic. Have you ever called 911?

Me and the locals are on practically on a first-name basis. Last time I called was 9/15 at about 9:30 p.m.

9) Random Question: Which book do you think you could learn more from -- The Joy of Sex or The Joy of Cooking?

I own one of them (and I use it) and I'm not all that interested in learning anything from the other.

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
Let's Pretend

1. What is your middle name?

Well, according to the Social Security database, it's in the top 40 names of the last century, but it hasn't been in the top 200 list since the 1950s when it was only in the top 70 or so names. I don't think I've met anyone my age or younger with that name, but you all certainly would recognize it as a "real name" if you heard it.

2. What is your favorite color?

Blue. And I'm not really fussy about what blue: teal, baby, navy, denim... Blue.

3. What’s your lucky number?

I don't think I have one. I don't "play the numbers" as a rule so it's not much of an issue. I have some "favorite" numbers, but not because they're "lucky."
However, there are some weird coincidences in our family in terms of birthdays: lots of people born on the 27th or 25th of various months and we have a pretty good record of having kids born in years ending in 3 since 1933, except we missed 2003 because my nieces missed the program.

4. Do you have any pets?

Just our little guinea pig, Pinto.

5. Where are you from?

This pretty little planet between Mars and Venus. It's lovely. You should visit. Maybe not during hurricane season, though.

6. How tall are you?

At my tallest, I was around 1.73 meters. I've shrunk some since then though.

7. What shoe size are you?

I'm running at about 10 these days. Somehow, it feels like they just keep growing, but I think it's just that my arches keep falling more and more.

8. How many pairs of shoes do you own?

Ha ha ha ha. I'm not quite Imelda-level, but my mom kind of was...it's a goal. We all need goals, right?

9. What was your last dream about?

I have had a bunch of super-weird dreams this week. Lots of traveling, packing, and cleaning. Yeah. Go nuts with all that interpretation.

10. What talents do you have?

Ugh. Right now, it seems my talent involves headaches and irritated GI tracts. Not feeling the joy today.

11. Are you psychic in any way?

I don't even know if I buy psychic powers, to be honest. Sometimes things happen that are creepily coincidental, but I don't think it's psychic.

12. Favorite song?

"Amazing Grace" either the traditional version (sung fairly straight) or Chris Tomlin's version. Though a good gospel version will rock me too.

13. Favorite movie?

Shoah.

14. Are you religious?

Yes.

15. Have you ever been to the hospital?

Of course. I was a candystriper for cryin' out loud. I spent time in hospitals from about age 2 as a visitor (very sick sister). I take Beast to the hospital again this Thursday for another nerve treatment. I spend a lot of time in hospitals. I've only been a patient IN the hospital twice though, thank God!

16. Have you ever been in trouble with the law?

I've gotten one ticket in my life. And I got pulled over last spring because my car came up as suspended, according to the cop; he was really sweet, and it was because Beast's license is suspended, not the car.

17. Have you ever met any celebrities?

Not really. It's not my thing to search them out.

17. What color socks are you wearing?

I have naked feet. It's still summer in my house!

18. Have you ever been famous?

Noooo....I've been in the paper a couple of times when I was interviewed at work. I don't really think that counts, though; both times were local papers.

20. Would you like to be a big celebrity?

ABSOLUTELY NOT!!!

21. What type of music do you like?

I like almost every kind of music, especially if I understand it. Like, I don't really get Asian music but that's probably because I have no conception of how it works, what it's supposed to sound like.

22. How many pillows do you sleep with?

Just one. I have an extra for reading in bed, but it puts my neck at a weird angle for sleeping.

23. What position do you usually sleep in?

Always on my side. Would love to sleep on my stomach sometimes, but not with a CPAP on my face. The only time I ever sleep on my back is if I have an upset stomach. I know, don't ask.

24. How big is your house?

It's about 2100 sq. feet plus basement. FAR too large for two people, but it's full of cra ...er, furniture and uh, stuff, that one or the other of us refuses to get rid of: "we might need it someday."

25. What do you typically have for breakfast?

Usually a bagel with some kind of (sliced) cheese on it.

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
The Q & A Questions

1. where is your significant other?

About 10 feet away from me in his recliner eating M&Ms, watching golf, and reading the news. Probably throwing heat into his back as well. He's quite the multitasker, my Beastie.

2. your favorite thing?

WHERE is it? I'm not even sure I HAVE a favorite thing that can be located. OK, I kind of OD'd on my mom's day gift Friday: The Hamilton Mixtape. I've got all the songs buzzing around my head in confusion this weekend. The actual CD is currently in the car.

3. your dream last night?

I don't remember anything from last night. Of late, Beast is the one having all the weird dreams. Mine have been unmemorable, literally.

4. your goal?

I don't "do" goals.

5. your hobby?

Reading. Although of late, I've been doing more napping and noodling on the Internet.

6. where do you want to be in 6 years?

I'd like to be right here. I have a feeling, however, that we'll need to move to a flat house (i.e. a ranch) in that time frame because of Beast's health issues. We'll see. It's not something I want to do, certainly.

7. where were you last night?

I was here on the sofa till about 8:30 when we went to bed.

8. what you're not?

I'm not a lot of things: short, stupid, male, African... In fact, I'm probably more NOT than AM.

9. one of your wish list items?

I had to go look at my wish list on Amazon. I'll go with this: Cartier Zeste de Soleil Eau de Toilette Spray

10. your pet?

Pinto Bean the guinea pig is what we have left. How will I answer this question when he's gone??

11. missing someone?

I was seriously missing Dad this morning at church. We sang a song that never fails to remind me of him.

12. your car?

Is blue.

13. something you're not wearing?

Sox.

14. love someone?

Do I? Yes.

15. when is the last time you laughed?

About 5 minutes ago when our neighbor kid came to the door and peered in. He was finishing up mowing and he'd already come to the door about 4 times today, so I laughed and told him, "Just come in; you basically live here now."

16. last time you cried?

Friday? Definitely Thursday. No Kleenex in the ER, either--I was handed a stack of gauze pads.

17. favorite past time?

Sleep.

18. are you a hater or a lover?

I'm working hard on removing hate from the equation, so the default is lover. Truthfully, I'm aiming more at "don't care, don't matter."

19. any vices?

Yeah, I'm not mastering this "eating healthy" thing at all.

20. favorite questions blog other than Sunday Stealing?

Saturday 9, Friday 5, Unconscious Mutterings. There are some weekday ones I'd like to do, but I just do not have the energy/time for them. Many of my favorites are listed in the Memeroll to the right.

Saturday 9

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Ballad of Gilligan's Island (1964)
Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) This is about the fateful cruise of the S.S. Minnow. If you had a boat, what would christen it?

The "S.S. Please Don't Sink."

2) "No phone! No lights! No motorcar! Not a single luxury!" To Sam, those sound more like everyday essentials than luxuries. If you were shipwrecked with the gang, what standard amenity would you miss the most?

I would have a lot of issues with no lights and (more important) no plumbing or medical treatment.

3) The uncharted isle was in the Pacific, near Hawaii. Have you ever been to our 50th state?

Nope. Someday. Sparky's been there so if I can talk him into being a tour guide that would be fun.

4) Natalie Schafer, who played Mrs. Howell, refused to divulge her age. Are you honest about how old you are? Or do you fudge it?

I turn 53 (officially) in about two hours. Don't care who knows it.

5) Gilligan's Island featured many dream sequences. (Like the one where Gilligan dozes off and dreams that he's Jack from Jack and the Beanstalk.) Have you had any vivid dreams lately?

I've had some of my usual weirdola dreams. Nothing that linear in terms of storyline, but lots of back and forth with what seems like every person I've ever met: college friends, middle school teachers, patrons from my first job, coworkers from now...and my son being multiple different ages at once. It's truly weird.

6) The pilot was filmed in November, 1963, in Honolulu. The cast and crew were actually onset when they learned of President Kennedy's assassination.* Because on location filming was so expensive, they couldn't afford to take any time off. Tell us about a time when you had to work, even though your heart and head weren't in it.

THIS WHOLE WEEK FROM WEDNESDAY MORNING ON. What a nightmare.

7) During the show's run, Mary Ann (Dawn Wells) was the clear fan favorite, receiving twice as many love letters as Ginger (Tina Louise). Have you ever written a fan letter (or posted a fan tweet or Facebook post)?

I have written two fan letters, one by myself and one with a friend, both of them to musical acts. I don't even remember if I got answers. I sure as hell hope the recipients shredded the letters!!

8) Sam chose this week's song because it was going through her head, over and over again! Tell us a song that burrows into your head and stays there.

Pretty much every song by P!nk has had it's day/week on permanent repeat. Today it's been Christmas songs. Because it's November (she says drily).

9) Random question: You went to a discount store and got an amazing bargain -- a pair of dress shoes for just $4.99. You go to a formal event and someone compliments you on those great shoes and asks where you got them. Do you tell the truth?

Of course. I'm from the Midwest; one does not NOT mention bargains when one has scored something like this!! [If I didn't like the person, I'd probably lie like a rug, though...lol]

*That's why, in the credits for the black and white seasons, the flags are at half-staff when The Minnow leaves the harbor.

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
Halloween Meme

1. What is the worst treat to get when trick-or-treating?

Toothpaste, or Jack Chick tracts.

2. What character from any horror film would you most like to play?

I don't really do horror films, so none. Either I'd be saying I want to be a victim or a crazed killer. Neither appeals.

3. Would you rather be a zombie, alien, or psycho? (why)

In real life or as a costume?? IRL=alien. Costume=zombie.

4. How many Halloween, Friday the 13th, or Nightmare on Elm Street movies combined do you have on dvd?

Not a single one, thanks. Even Beast hasn't bought them, and he will at least sit through them!

5. What is the scariest movie you have ever seen?

Psycho is definitely up there. In a different direction entirely, Platoon and Shoah are also terrifying.

6. Lamest costume you have worn on Halloween?

I haven't worn a costume in quite some time, so ... those. We are costuming tomorrow at work though, so I'll be "did up."

7. Favorite Halloween treat?

I liked all the variety of things in the bag, to be honest. Except lollipops--I never really "got" suckers. I mean I got them to eat, but the attraction frankly escapes me.

8. Friendly-faced jack o’lantern or scary one?

Don't really care, but it should have something to do with Halloween, yes? So "Hamilton" pumpkins, "C" (Cubs or Cleveland) pumpkins, random letters on pumpkins....no. They're very artistic and all (sometimes) but NOT Halloween-y.

9. Have you ever had nightmares about a scary movie character chasing you?

I did as a child. I don't have too many "chasing me in terror" dreams anymore. My bad dreams are usually stress, yelling, and falling.

10. Best thing about Halloween?

Are you kidding? The candy of course! For me, I like the kids' costumes as they wander the neighborhood too.

11. Strangest Halloween custom you’ve heard of?

I can't help but feel sorry for countries without pumpkins. England has a lot of carved turnips, and it just doesn't work as well. (Even if that's where the whole tradition started, apparently)

12. Person in your family who most likes Halloween (not counting yourself)?

Uhm. I'd say Beast and I are about tied on this. One thing I really hate is having to work till halfway through trick-or-treat hours .... I miss all the little kids.

13. Are you superstitious? If so, name at least one superstition of yours.

I'm not really. I do try hard not to say certain patrons' names out loud at work because even when they've been gone awhile, it seems to bring them back in the building. I'm not kidding, either: Red-Faced Man was gone for easily 3 years, and no sooner did I bring him up than (boom) two weeks later he reappeared. smh

14. What's your best Halloween memory?

I really enjoy handing out candy to kids. There was one year that was so warm that I literally had the screen-door window open like a Dutch door handing candy over it.

15. At what age were you allowed to go trick-or-treating by yourself?

Probably about 10. I don't honestly remember, but I had to be done before it got dark.

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
Tubular Bells (1973)
Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) According to Reader's Digest, The Exorcist is the scariest movie of all time. Have you seen it, and if so, did it scare you?

I was not yet 10 when it came out, but my brother went...and had to leave to throw up halfway through. He was more scared than his girlfriend. Anyway, I've read the book. It's scary. Not Stephen-King-scary, but pretty good. I don't "do" horror movies at all.

2) The Exorcist has been made into a TV series on Fox, premiering last month. Have you become a fan of any of the season's new shows?

Nope.

3) "Tubular Bells" is a popular ringtone for both Android and iPhone. What's your ringtone?

My default is a riff on "Who Are You" by The Who. My extended family gets Rachmaninoff, people to whom it applies get "Help Me Rhonda" or "Awesome God" or "Work Work" or "You've Got a Friend." Beast and Sparky share "The Sweetest Thing." All of which goes a long way toward saying I'm that nerdy.

4) As Halloween approaches, do you watch more scary shows and movies?

Nope. Well, I mean, most of what we watch has a Halloween-themed show every year, but no I don't do scary.

5) Do you have any recurring nightmares?

Nothing beyond 'trapped at work' dreams.

6) Have you carved a jack o' lantern this year?

Nope. Doubtful that we will, either. We need to go get a few punkins at least tho.

7) Do you like the taste of pumpkin seeds?

I do, but not enough to make my own.

8) What will the trick or treaters who knock on your door get?

Right now I've got all non-chocolate, non-nut stuff. We're on our way to get those punkins and I'll pick up another bag or two of candy as well.

9) A Halloween "let's pretend:" Back in the 1950s, a home in your neighborhood was the site of a gruesome murder/suicide. Relatives retained ownership of the house but declined to live there. During the ensuing decades, a legend grew: The tragic couple haunts the halls. Generations of schoolchildren insist they heard strange sounds and saw curtains often move mysteriously. Now the house is about to be demolished. A local charity is raising money by sponsoring a Halloween sleepover. Would you be willing to stay in this haunted house over night?

Sure.
Look, the first house we bought was the site of a murder-suicide by the just-previous owners. After moving in, we chose a dog from the pound and brought her home. She was never a fan of our bedroom--where the killing happened--so at first we thought about ghosts and woo-woo and all that. Then we took up the cheap carpet and discovered that the floor had never been properly cleaned underneath it, and the previous carpet pad wasn't replaced either. Once Beast--my hero, seriously--got the pad out and the floor cleaned and then sanded down and stained, our puppy was much happier about being in there with us. She just didn't like the scent of death.
So, no, I don't really believe in ghosts or hauntings, though I do believe that when something like this happens inside a house or other building, it does change the place in a non-physical way. Hard to explain what I mean, but it's not something I'm afraid of, just aware of.

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
Survey 212 Meme

Is your birth year an odd or even number?

It's only fitting that it's an odd year, no?

Which one of your friends is the most outgoing?

Probably Beast. No wait, T., at work, talks to E V E R Y O N E!

Have you eaten any of your favorite foods today?

Yup. Bacon. And donuts. And pancakes.

When did you last find yourself in an awkward situation?

Well, this morning when I realized 5 minutes into Sunday School that I was "the" teacher not the backup. So, punt: "What's Easter about?"

When was the last time you ignored, or went against, someone’s advice?

I can't think of a specific time lately, but I'm frequently the recipient of "suggestions" either from my older family members or from random patrons at work. I mostly ignore ALL of it these days and do my own thing.

What happened?

Since I can't remember any horrific outcomes, I'm assuming nothing at all.

How many different towns/cities have you lived in?

I have received mail in six towns, seven zip codes, and eight home addresses. Plus work, and post office boxes.

When was the last time you had Nutella?

Been awhile. I have some, but I have to be in the right mood for it.

Who is your favorite character in“The Big Bang Theory”?

I have never watched the show. On principle, though, I like Mayim Bialik a lot.

What are your parents’ middle names?

One was the first name of the narrator of a famous book by Louisa May Alcott. The other was the first name of the last--not the current--Prince Consort of England.

Name someone with a sexy sounding voice.

The guy who is reading my current book on CD is pretty awesome--I never, ever thought the Cajun accent was all that, but holy Joe...he's changing my mind. Also, Kathleen Turner.

Are your eyes the same color as your sibling’s?

I think my sister Marie and I have the same color eyes: hazel. My brother has blue eyes.

How many pets do you have? Would you like any more?

I have one guinea pig. I'd love a dog. But once this piggy is going, were done. I'm allergic to EVERYTHING furry, apparently.

Is there a song you can’t stop listening to atm?

I heard one this morning in the car called "Pacing the Cage" that I'm kind of obsessing about--never heard it before but the lyrics were interesting. Need to find it on Spotify.

Is there a song that you’re fed up of hearing?

Just about anything from the 80s that hit top 10. I listened to the radio (and watched MTV) a little too much back then....

Did you have a strange or interesting dream last night?

I didn't sleep all that well. I know I dreamed, but I don't remember anything.

Name 3 things that are in your refrigerator atm.

Leftovers, cheese, pop.

Which friend do you confide in most?

These days, Vickie.

What was your most recent reason for smiling?

Something silly that Beast just read me from his daily page calendar about beggars and cruisers.

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
The Times of Your Life (1976)
Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) This song is all about memories. How far back can you remember? What's your earliest memory?

I can remember bits and pieces back to age 3 or so. I have a very very vivid memory of a dream I had before I turned 5. I know it was then because we got new living room furniture when I was just about 5 and the dream took place amid OLD living room furniture. I remembered the dream after I had it but couldn't figure it out until a few years later looking at old photos and recognizing the furniture from my dream!

2) The first line is "Good morning, yesterday." What do you remember about yesterday morning?

Fridays I need to be at work by 8, so I'm up an hour earlier than usual and I'd had two short nights in a row. I'm still tired. Otherwise, it was a normal morning for all intents and purposes.

3) This song was originally a 60-second jingle, featured in a commercial for Kodak film. Do you ever use film? Or are all your pictures digital?

Never use it anymore. Still have lots and lots of non-digital photos though.

4) Who took the most recent photo of you?

I have no idea. Probably Beast, unless it was at work.

5) This week's featured artist, Paul Anka, was born in Canada and enjoyed appearing in a made-for-TV Perry Mason movie with fellow Canadian, Raymond Burr. Do you enjoy courtroom dramas?

I like Law & Order in various incarnations, yes.

6) At 15, Anka won a supermarket contest by collecting the most Campbell soup can wrappers. The prize was a trip to New York. Do you enter contests and sweepstakes? Play the lottery?

I do not. I consider it a giant waste of my time. Note that I said "my" time. What others do with their time doesn't have to make sense to me.

7) This year Paul Anka performed throughout Florida (Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Orlando, Clearwater and Fort Myers). The Sunshine State is a popular vacation destination. Do you have a favorite spot in Florida?

I do not. I've been there once--when Sparky was three, to Orlando, guess why--and was not enthralled. Laura Ingalls Wilder was not a fan, however, and that's good enough for me. I'm not a waterbug, so the ocean doesn't hold a lot of attraction to me.

8) In 1976, the year this song was on the charts, an earthquake hit China. Have you ever experienced an earthquake?

Yes I have. I grew up in Colorado, and there are occasional temblors there, though nothing very major at all. There've been a few here where I live now, but again, nothing worth getting worked up about. It's a a very strange feeling: either you don't feel anything but may notice things moving around the room, or you feel/hear some weird noises and bumping, like a car wreck outside.

9) Random question: Do you know CPR?

I just got recertified last summer. Never had to use it. Hope I never do. I pretty much get certified as insurance so I don't need it. They do a quick re-education on AEDs now with CPR classes, and I am much more likely to use that, to be honest.

Sunday Stealing

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

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

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

77. Is it easier to forgive or forget?

Much easier to forget. SOOOOOoooo much easier!

78. First mobile phone?

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

79. Strangest dream?

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

80. Best dream?

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

81. Who is the smartest person you know?

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

82. Who is the prettiest person on you know?

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

83. Do you miss anyone right now?

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

84. Who do you love? Why?

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

85. Do you like sharing?

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

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

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

87. Is there a reason behind everything that happens?

Sure. Or at the very least a teachable moment.

88. Favorite genre of music?

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

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

"Unfinished."

90. Describe your life in 5 words.

"I don't have a clue."

91. Craziest thing you’ve ever done?

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

92. First three songs in your favorite playlist?

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

93. Are you more creative or logical?

I'm more logical most of the time.

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

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

95. What are you most proud of?

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

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

Joy.

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

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

98. How do you usually start a conversation?

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

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
Straight Up (1988)

1) In this song, Paula sings about being in a dream. Did you dream last night?

Yeah, I dreamed that Beast had made a bad decision about how he spends his time, taking him backwards a couple of years. Thankfully it was just a dream.

2) When Paula enrolled at California State University, she planned on studying broadcasting and becoming a reporter. Think about your career aspirations when you were 19. Did you follow through and stay on track or, like Paula, did you veer off and find success elsewhere?

I had no clue what to do post-college. All the things I enjoyed in school led mostly to teaching or business, neither of which interested me (teaching because of issues external to the actual teaching part of the job, business because yuck). I was in a program called something like Independent Study so I had fewer requirements than most college students, so I ended up getting a double major and a double minor and skipping a lot of the must-take classes (like calculus). So I'm degreed to the gills and unemployable. Brill. Hello, grad school!

3) For a while she was a "Laker Girl" and performed at L.A. Laker games. Do you have a favorite NBA team?

I . Do . Not . Basketball looks to me like organized rioting with random breaks where everyone goes retro and gentlemanly.

4) Paula was once married to Brad Beckerman of Stillhouse Spirits, a company that specializes in whiskey. What's your favorite alcoholic beverage?

Stoli. Not that I've had any in probably 6 months....

5) Paula has been dancing since age 8 and, as you can see from the video, Paula moves very well in heels. Tell us about your most comfy shoes.

I have come to really love Sketchers because they are so comfortable to work in. I've got a couple of pairs and I need to go stock up on fall/winter footwear so there may be more in my future.

6) Paula admits it was her passion for jewelry and that inspired her to design her own line for QVC and Avon. What is your favorite thing to go shopping for?

Shoes. Not even close. Seriously, I could easily buy 20 pairs of shoes every time I walk into a store. It's ridiculous.

7) She advises young girls to "keep the faith and don't lose your gut instinct." How about you? Are you more logical or instinctive?

I'm both. I think I tend toward logical over time, but I've made a lot of big "gut" decisions that have worked out all right as well.

8) In May, Paula traveled to Austria for The Life Ball, a fundraiser to help those afflicted with HIV/AIDS. When is the last time you left the country?

This makes me sad. I haven't been overseas since 2011 when we went to Italy and then to England for Rosellen and Spence's wedding. They are expecting twins this year so maybe we need to head over to see them and the rest of the family, including the other two babies born since 2011.

9) Paula Abdul is a spokeswoman for Avon's "Go Check Yourself" campaign for breast health awareness. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Do you know anyone who has been touched by this disease?

I work with two people who have dealt with this. A church and P.E.O. friend is in remission, and another P.E.O. is in treatment right now. My mom had a brief scare towards the end of her life, but it turned out OK. I also had a sister die of a different 'brand' of cancer.
But the real scary thing in my circle is heart disease. My dad, my mother-in-law, my sister, and innumerable friends have dealt with this. It's far FAR more important to me to get a handle on heart-related diseases. Sorry, pink people.
I also loathe the color pink, so that might be part of my 'problem.'

...a long distance out of the way...

(Swiped from Amy)

What's the best piece of advice anyone has ever given you?

A version of "not my circus, not my monkeys" that involved snakes about 10 years ago. I have to re-hear it regularly as I'm prone in sticking my nose into things it would be better off out of. [Grammar is my friend...]

If a loved one was to serenade you, what song would you most like them to sing?

Whatever song they'd like. However, I must stipulate that they can at least bring a bucket in which to carry a tune in. Beast can't sing at all, and Sparky isn't quite there yet either.

Would you ever let your parents pick out a partner for you?

Nope, and it's too late now. And they wouldn't've anyway. I'm more likely to listen to their advice as I get older, however, which is somewhat ironic now that I can't.

Michelangelo's David...masterpiece or filth?

"Filth" because he's naked? Please, get over your penis-phobia! And it's an amazing work of art. I will never forget my first sight of it in the Accademia in 1985. Astounding, jaw-dropping, un-fucking-believable.

Do you like other people buying you clothes?

Depends on the article of clothing. Sometimes its spot on, something I love and will wear. More often it's weird or the wrong size. My mom, funnily enough, chose good things for me even after multiple strokes until she stopped shopping because ... stuff got hard. No one else has matched her prowess. :'(

What one device would you want to see added to a mobile phone?

I just got a new phone and I can't think of a thing it doesn't have, except a "louder" (i.e., more noticeable) vibrate feature. I guess I'll just have to turn up the volume and annoy my coworkers with sounds.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years' time?

I'll be nearly 62. Probably still at least 5 years from full-benefits retirement, as they've raised the age for state employment vestment to 67. I hope I can make it that long. Honestly, I don't know what I'll do if/when I retire. Maybe I'll have grandkids, or at least a daughter-in-law, by then? I'm not holding my break. I love Sparky to death, but right now he's a bit of a know-it-all/spaz.

Do your dreams ever tell you to do anything?

Not really in the sense of ordering me around. My dreams often 'reinterpret' what's been going on in my waking life and help me sort out the important stuff. Or just point out the Tragically Weird. And often I wake up thinking, "Why in hell was I obsessing all night about (this week) making sure Sparky gets a checking account??" Which we did this morning.

Have you ever been to an Art gallery?

Uhm, yes. Of course. There was one on my college campus, right by the dining room. Many libraries I've been in have had small galleries attached. Mine does, now, for instance. Starbucks even has gallery space to rent! And of course museums too. Endless hallways inside the Vatican come to mind, full of so much art it seems almost obscene that what we're seeing is "just the good stuff." And some Native galleries in various locales...Vegas, Arizona, Minnesota.

Do you shout out the answers at the TV whilst watching quiz shows?

I've been known to mutter. And occasionally, when contestants are ridiculously dumb, I have shouted. I don't watch too many of them anymore, though.

Are you a valuable asset on a Pub Quiz team?

Probably, but since I don't hang out in pubs, or anyplace where there's regular trivia contests it's not been a thing. No one I know is willing to play Trivial Pursuit with me anymore, though, even the smarty-smart people of my acquaintance. Sad face.

If you could bankrupt one person or company who would it be?

Weapons manufacturers and dealers. This song is a bit extreme, but the gist of it works for me.

If you could steal one thing without consequence what would it be?

Babies for snuggles. Until they start doing the stinky-screamy thing and then they go right back to their parents.
Something I'd steal and keep? Maybe all the handguns in the world...and throw them into an active volcano.

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
I Miss You (1997)
... because Smellyann suggested it
Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) In this song, Bjork knows what she's looking for in a mate, she just hasn't met him yet. If you are/were still looking for The One, what two qualities would you hope he/she possessed?

I'm not. But the things about Beast that I appreciate the most are his quick-wittedness (not just sense of humor, but intelligence), and his loyalty.

2) The lyrics ask if you believe "that a dream can come true." Do you believe that dreams come true if you wish hard enough?

"Wish"? No. Sometimes hard work can make them happen, but sometimes only good luck will make a difference.

3) Bjork turns 50 this year. Do you treat "milestone" birthdays differently? Or to you, is your age just a number?

I turned 50 a couple of years ago and that was a sorta-big deal. Generally though, it's just a number. I judge my age more on what happened to those in my family at that age; ages 47-55 haven't been kind.

4) Bjork was always highly musical. At the tender age of 6 she began studying classical piano and flute. Sam is impressed because at the age of 6, she was still trying to master tying her shoes. Do you consider yourself musical?

Yes. I took piano lessons as a youngster, played flute and piccolo from junior high into college, and love to sing. Music is really important to me.

5) She was born and raised in Reykjavik, Iceland. While the city is known for its bar scene, beer was banned there until 1995. How often do drink beer?

Never. Yuck. I've had, perhaps, the equivalent of one bottle of beer total in my lifetime. When I was on the train from Irkutsk to Beijing they ran out of everything to drink but Chinese beer, so I gagged some of that down till the train stopped and I could buy a bottle of fruit juice from someone on the platform.

6) 66ºNORTH is one of Iceland's biggest employers. This clothier makes quality outdoor wear and this time of year they sell a lot of durable rainwear. Do you have a raincoat?

I have a windbreaker. I used to have a London Fog raincoat that I loved. Then it got caught in a car door. And it was, fashion-wise, very dated, but I adored the color (sort of a shimmery copper).

7) In 1997, when this song was popular in clubs, Titanic was popular in theaters. Sam saw it and yes, she cried. How about you? Have you seen the saga of Jack and Rose? Did you enjoy it?

I believe I have seen all of the movie, though perhaps not in one sitting, and not until about 10 years after everyone else saw it 20 times each in theaters. I'm way more interested in the true stories of the tragedy than fiction.

8) Also in 1997, singer John Denver died. Name a John Denver song.

It's been that long?! Oh dear. "Annie's Song", "Rocky Mountain High", "Grandma's Feather Bed", "Calypso"....so many.... I loved that man; he meant my childhood.

9) Random question: If you had the opportunity to sky dive, would you take it?

Hmm. Had you asked me 10 years ago, the answer would have been an unqualified YES! Now, though...I'm not sure. More age=more fear.

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
The Sizzle Says Meme

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

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

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

That is an excellent question...

3. What’s better: horses or cows?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

7. Complete this statement: Love is…

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

8. Can you tell a good story?

I can. And do.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lazy Easter Sunday

(Swiped from Amy)

Have you ever had a dream that you chased only to be let down when you achieved it?

Not "let down" per se but this whole Being An Adult thing is not as advertised when I was younger. I don't really have high expectations anymore for most things--I tend toward realistic. Maybe cynical? Nah, not really. Just unwilling to live with massive, preventable disappointment.

Is there anything about the opposite sex you just don't understand or comprehend?

Well, the whole peeing standing up thing is complicated as far as I can tell, seeing as how it seems far more difficult than it sounds to hit a fairly good-sized target with any degree of regularity. Otherwise, men aren't any weirder than women, except for their general lack of a clue about women. ;-)

Who was your favourite teacher at school and why?

I struggle with this question because I had pretty excellent teachers throughout my educational career; it would be MUCH easier to list the crappy ones! I even had good Sunday School teachers. It's been fun, thanks to Facebook, to get to know some of these folks as people now that we're all adults. Supposedly.

What's your favourite party game?

Depends on the party. I love Sheepshead, but it isn't something most people can deal with. Poker is fun. Apples to Apples is fun. Whatever. I will play almost any game.

Is it acceptable or unacceptable to smack a child as form of discipline?

Sure. Punching is not ok. Slapping isn't even ok. But the occasional butt-swat is called for, as an attention-getting device. Note that word "occasional"--if you're doing it more than 5 times a week--depending a little on age and the personality of the child--you aren't doing it right.

Can a heterosexual male ever wear pink?

Sure. My dad wore pink. He was definitely hetero. How can I be sure? He wore a pink shirt with an orange-and-green plaid sport coat. {kidding}

Is it criminal to wear socks with sandals?

It's rather silly-looking, but some feet are not ready for public viewing. On the other hand, being comfortable around those you love gives people a bit of a free pass on Ugly Feet Syndrome.

If you were captain of a ship, what would you call it?

Lollipop. Question back though: since when do captains get to name their own ships?

If you were to join an emergency service which would it be?

Probably EMT. I would suck at fire/rescue, and being a cop doesn't really work for me either.

If you were to join one of the armed forced which would it be?

At this point, none of them would have me. However, back in the day, the only one I would have seriously considered was the Air Force.

What's the worst thing about being your gender?

The bleeding every month thing, when it was a thing for me, really just sucked. Not just the hassle, but the hormonal stuff and generally feeling like shit on a plate at least 2-3 days every month.

What's the best thing about being your gender?

Being pregnant.

If you swapped genders for a day how would you spend it?

Working out the Pee Mystery--though surely that wouldn't take all day. Would it? So I'd just spend my day as usual, otherwise. I mean, being male wouldn't change my ability to do my job. I'm not a pregnancy surrogate or anything.

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
Nosy Meme

Average hours of sleep:

Maybe 7, over time. Lately, I seem to need about 10.

Last thing I Googled:

Something about Hardcore Pawn, which we're watching.

One place that makes me happy:

The mountains.

How many blankets I sleep under:

This time of year, one blanket, one bedspread. And a sheet.

What are you wearing right now:

Caesar's Palace sweatshirt and sweats from the school Sparky is at. I need some sox--my tootsies are cold.

Last book you read:

The book I finished last was The Witch by Jean Thompson. The audiobook I last finished was In Paradise by Peter Matthiessen. Both were very, very good. I've already finished 13 books this year! That pace won't continue, I assure you!

Favorite fictional character:

So many... Maybe Kinsey Millhone?

Last movie I watched in the cinema:

Wow, I can't remember. Shocking, eh? I seriously have some kind of mental block about movies.

Dream vacation:

A Mediterranean cruise, at least a month long.

Dream wedding:

Someone else's. Or at the very least one I haven't had anything to do with planning.

Dream pet:

I would love to have a couple of dogs. Or more than a couple. Not really interested in purebreds--just some pound puppies.

Dream job:

I'm in it. If I could only be left alone to do it....

How old would you be if you didn’t know how old you are?

I would still be the same age; not knowing doesn't make something different. If you're asking what age I'd choose to be, it would be 30.

Which is worse, failing or never trying?

Never trying? I don't know, I'm not really fan of failing either, even though I've done it often enough.

If life is so short, why do we do so many things we don’t like and like so many things we don’t do?

Inertia, fear, habit, lack of planning...take your pick or add your own options.

Patrick's Place (late)

(Link in meme-roll)
Saturday Six

1. What is your favorite flavor of ice cream?

Peppermint. Or vanilla with butterscotch topping.

2. Of the cars you’ve owned, which has been your all-time favorite and why?

I loved my two little trucks, the '87 Toyota and the '98 Ford Ranger.

3. If you were to book a flight, how much would the airline brand factor in to your decision to fly?

In this country, it pretty much has to be United because Beast gets miles we can bank; or we'd be using those miles. Overseas, it would be a Star Alliance brand for the same reasons.

4. Was the last dream you remember experiencing while you slept a happy dream, a sad dream, a scray [sic] dream, or one that made so little sense it would have to fall into the “none of the above” category?

It was weird. Not exactly a bad dream, but kind of unfortunate. I don't remember a lot of details except that a lot of people from different parts of my life were involved somehow.

5. Which do you see more often: your regular physician, your dentist, your eye doctor, or a specialty doctor?

I see my eye doctor and dentist regularly every six months--although this year I think I've seen the dentist 4 times (stupid crown). I've seen my primary care doctor twice this year. I'll be seeing a specialist for the second time sometime before the end of the year. At least I hope so, because I want this stupid thing dealt with soon!

6. Considering everything you are wearing right now, how many different colors do you have on at the moment?

(Intentionally) grungy white, sky blue, red, gray, some yellowish leftovers from dinner (sigh)...and orange nail polish. The latter really needs to be removed. Maybe during football tonight...

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
Welcome to My Nightmare (1975)
Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) Tell us about a bad dream you've had.

Most of the unpleasant dreams I have lately are full of Extremely Irritating Things from real life: patrons too stupid to be alive and mean on top of it, traffic jams, piles of complicated work that I want to do but keep getting interrupted.
This morning I woke up from a dream about going to church--except, in the way of dreams, it was nowhere I've ever actually worshipped--where I had to use the bathroom, but the wall to the room disappeared as I was sitting, and a new adult Sunday School person showed up and started preaching at us so Beast and I tried to explain that the class was more of a "sharing with each other" situation because none of the other people wanted to talk to him at all. It sounds like an annoying dream, but the dream was actually really pretty lovely, full of people and places and situations that were calming. Except for that bathroom wall part. ;-)

2) Sam is not crazy about spiders. What frightens you, or gives you "the creeps?"

I'm watching "Dirty Jobs" this morning. Mike is dealing with hagfish. They're pretty gross. Earwigs, though--man, they freak me the fuck up. {{shudder}}

3) This week's featured artist, Alice Cooper, has always liked to dress up. Performing as Alice, he wears garish eye makeup. In his first group, he and his bandmates dressed as the Beatles. Will you be wearing a costume this weekend?

Nope. I went to work dressed as a librarian, complete with glasses and cardigan. Today, I'm still in my jammies.

4) Alice says his makeup was inspired by Bette Davis in his favorite horror movie, Whatever Happened to Baby Jane? This Halloween weekend, will you seek out horror movies and scary TV shows, or will you avoid them?

We watched RHPS on Logo last night. Not horror, except in that it's SO BAD. And no, we didn't throw toast.

5) Born Vincent Furnier, Alice used to tell reporters that he and his band got the name Alice Cooper from a Oujia board. Have you ever tried a Oujia board?

Yes. Ridiculous but fun for 14-year-old girls on sleepovers.

6) Alice and his band (also called Alice Cooper) were discovered by music manager Shep Gordon while playing in Venice, California. Have you ever visited Venice, California or Venice, Italy?

I have not. Well, not that I know of--we may have been near Venice Beach when I was in LA 35 years ago. Maybe the trip this winter, we'll swing past. I hear it's pretty awesome. The nearest I've been to Venice, Italy is Florence (or the Venetian casino in Vegas). Someday....

7) In 1970s England, a morality campaigner named Mary Whitehouse persuaded the BBC to ban Alice Cooper. The ensuing publicity resulted in such a bump in record sales that Alice sent Ms. Whitehouse flowers. Do you believe in censorship? Or should adults be able to choose to see/hear whatever they wish?

I'm a librarian. I do not believe in censorship. I buy all kinds of stuff that's potentially offensive. I think adults should be able to choose their own poison.
Also, I find it terminally amusing that all the people who want to censor Alice Cooper on religious grounds seem to be unaware that he's a Christian.

8) Today Alice has a popular syndicated radio show, Nights with Alice Cooper. Listeners all over the United States, Germany, Denmark, New Zealand, and the UK hear him introduced as, "a man for whom even Dr. Phil has no cure." Do you watch Dr. Phil?

Hell to the no! My sister has a thing for him, but I find him really grating.

9) Did you get many trick or treaters this year? What candy did you give them?

It was a pretty slow night due to cold and serious wind. We have over half the candy we bought sitting here:

This, plus another giant bag of Fun Mix, we have left

I'll be bagging most of it up for Operation Christmas Child today and/or tomorrow. We're packing boxes in two weeks.

Saturday 9

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

1) The video was shot on a street corner in Echo Park in central Los Angeles. If you saw a film crew making a video in your neighborhood, would you stop to watch? Or would you just keep walking?

I'd probably know ahead of time and avoid the area like the plague. Not my circus.

2) The singer says he remembers his girl in every dream he dreams. Do you remember if you dreamed last night?

I'm pretty sure I did, but 15 hours after waking up I can't remember any shreds of them.

3) The band Train is from San Francisco. Have you ever visited The City by the Bay?

Yes, I've been there twice--once when I was about 17 and once about 18 months ago. I love that city, but it's very touristy.

4) Lead singer Pat Monahan got his start in a Led Zeppelin cover band. Can you name a Led Zeppelin song?

I'm not a fan, but it's hard to avoid "Stairway to Heaven."

5) In doing research for this week's Saturday 9, Crazy Sam discovered a publication called Trains, The Magazine of Railroading. What's the last magazine you flipped through?

hah! Two of my family members subscribe to this magazine! I think the last magazine I touched was Consumer Reports, but whether it was at home or at work, I couldn't tell you.

6) Do you consider yourself a leader or a follower?

A bit of both, really, hopefully at the appropriate times.

7) Scholars tell us that "To be or not to be" is Shakespeare's most quoted line. Give us another one.

"What a piece of work is man, how noble in reason,
how infinite in faculties, in form and moving,
how express and admirable in action, how like an angel in apprehension,
how like a god!"

8) How do you listen to music on the go? Car radio? CD changer? iPod/mp3 player? Your phone?

I don't, really. When I have to listen to music, I turn on Sirius XM, but it isn't that often. I used Spotify at work.

9) Are you a convincing liar?

Apparently so.

Curious as a Cat

(Link in meme-roll)

1) If you were a professor, what subject would you teach?

Probably history or English, but these days I might be teaching how to use a computer to non-traditional students. Or bibliographic instruction, i.e. "how to use the library."

2) Describe a dream that you had recently. Provide as many details as possible.

On the way back from seeing Sparky yesterday, I fell asleep figuring out how to gather some stats my boss asked me to work on. I'm not sure that counts as a dream exactly, but I'm relatively certain you don't want to know the details.

3) What is the dumbest thing you have ever done?

Dear God, there are so many things to choose from! My mouth gets me in a lot of trouble, and always has. My boss has been riding me hard for the last year to make that stop. I feel like I should just wear tape over my mouth at work every day. It's quite painful, annoying, infuriating, and endlessly frustrating because it comes up EVERY time we talk about ANYthing. I got slammed again Thursday for something I posted on Facebook. So now he's been "Acquaintance-Zoned"--considering I work at a library, I tend to have issues around being censored.

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

Yummy strawberries!! I think I'll stop and get some at the store tomorrow for lunch.