Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll) 

All Shook Up (1957) 

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

Chosen because January 8 is the anniversary of Elvis Presley's birth.

1) In this song, Elvis shares quite a list of maladies: he's itching, his hands are shaky, his knees are weak, he has chills ... How are you feeling this morning? 

Mmm, whoops, I'm doing this at 7 pm. I was ok this morning, albeit super not-motivated for work.

2) He also mentions being "tongue tied." The dictionary defines it as, "unable to speak freely, as from shyness." Do you often find yourself tongue tied? 

Yes. I also get tangled tongue if I think too hard about what I'm trying to say.

3) Even after he was wealthy, Elvis never lived away from his parents. At one point Graceland Mansion was home to four generations of the family: his grandmother, his father and stepmother, Elvis, his wife and daughter. Have you ever lived in a multi-generational household? 

Only as a child. I'd murder members of my family of origin if we lived together. Sparky could move back in and that would be fine.

4) Thinking of family, Elvis Presley was a distant cousin of President Jimmy Carter. Both of their family trees can be traced back to the 18th century and Thomas Preslar (before the surname was changed to Presley in the early 1800s). Have you traced your ancestry? If not, is it something you'd like to do?

My mom was big into genealogy. I have all her paperwork and help people with their genealogy at work all the time, and I give zero shits about doing the work for my own ancestry.

5) As an adult, Elvis never wore denim (except for a movie role). That's because when he was in school, his classmates teased him for "dressing poor" in jeans and coveralls. Is denim a big part of your wardrobe today?

Not anymore. I wear elastic pants, almost all yoga pants or nurses' scrubs, always now. This is shocking: I had to work so hard to get to the point where I could wear jeans as a kid that I never ever thought I'd give them up. And here I am, with a fat tummy that doesn't do well with zip-up pants.

6) Before becoming famous, Elvis drove a truck in and around Memphis. Have you ever had a job that kept you behind the wheel most of the day? 

Nope. Once upon a time I wanted to be a truck driver. It never happened, sadly.

7) In 1957, the year this song was a hit, the Allstate Mechanical Freight Set was popular, too. Kids would wind up the engine and watch it pull two cars and a caboose around the track. To enhance the realism, sparks would shoot from the engine's smoke stack as it rumbled by. Did you ever play with a toy train? If not, tell us about a childhood plaything you remember fondly. 

I never cared a bit about trains, despite family that worked for the railroad and other family that are mental about trains. I was into toy cars though, metal ones.

8) The best-selling book of 1957 was Peyton Place, a scandalous tale of life in a small New England town. Do you suppose there are enough steamy stories behind closed doors in your town to fill a novel? 

There are plenty of steamy stories in my community's library to write several novels.

9) Random question: Can you do 10 push ups? 

You're funny, Gal. lol

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
Write from Karen

1. What’s the coolest item you’ve found at a garage sale, flea market, etc.?

It's been awhile since I've hit garage sales (and I never do flea markets, simply because there aren't that many around here). I can't think of anything super-special, though Sparky's main wardrobe supply was hand-me-downs from garages and thrift shops. I found some wonderful glass luncheon dishes at a resale shop over a decade ago, and we have a number of pieces of furniture from resale and "antique" shops. They aren't antiques; just old and cheap.

2. Describe how your day went yesterday.

I was up early to return a key that I mistakenly brought home from work. Then I hit Dollar General for odds and ends, came home and put those away while the load of laundry finished drying. Folded those things and packed up for a visit with Beast...and hit a wall. Took a nap, went over to Beast's for an hour or so (with donuts for the staff and coffee for him), came home, cooked up a steak I'd defrosted earlier in the week--and I'll be eating steak all week now, so there's that--did dishes, listened to some crime podcasts, noodled around online while I ate, looked over the bills and entered receipts, watched Live PD, went to bed.

3. Do you have issues with people entering your personal space? What do you do when your personal space is violated?

I have a fairly small circle of space around me, but once you cross it...yeah, I'll be backing up and doing the defensive/arms-crossed posture. I'm more likely to get myself in a roil because of emotional invasion, though: Friday at work one of our long-time patrons (whose got some issues, but is generally quite interesting to chat with) asked if I was going to be at the Big Do that evening in support of the library. It was a weird vibe, so thank God I could tell him no. I do not need drama in my life!

4. What is the one meal recipe you think you’ve mastered?

Macaroni and cheese NOT from a box! But I do a decent Thanksgiving spread, if I do say so myself.

5. If you could take back something you did to someone, what would it be?

I would have been nicer and less fearful of "status damage" when I was in school.

6. Would you describe yourself as spiritual, religious, or something else?

Seeing as how I literally couldn't force myself out the door to go to church this morning, dressed, packed and...nope... I think I'd better go with spiritual today. I haven't been in worship more than a couple of times since September, and every time I go I lose my shit and then people want to chat about Beast's "stuff" and I get overwhelmed and it takes me the rest of the day to regain some equilibrium. It's a combination of the music, being surrounded by people I love (who love me) and being a Natural Cryer at church even on good days. Fuck. I'm crying just writing about it.

7. Did you ever receive detention in school? What sort of kid were you in school – bookworm, smart kid, troublemaker, quiet … etc.

Had I ever been in detention, my childhood self is certain I'd have been hung from a spit at home and never made it to adulthood. In reality, it wasn't that bad, but it was easier to just roll along being a brainiac bookwormy smart-ass.

8. When’s the last time you ran a mile? How often do you exercise?

A mile??!? That would be, uhm, probably 27 years, before I got pregnant. I don't run. I ran as a kid, and loved it, but I hate sweating with glasses on.

9. What would you say to your 16-year-old self, and why?

"Get over yourself, girl! You are NOT the center of the universe, but you do get to make decisions for yourself! And, jeez, just ask W. (or J.!) out and see what happens, for cryin' out loud!"

10. What are you avoiding?

Piles of bills (which I can't pay till I call my online banking helpline). Piles of tax info (which I can't really do anything about till I talk to my CPA). Piles of boxes (a lot of which are Beast's family stuff, so I can't touch those). Piles of laundry. Piles of phone calls to make: bank, CPA, Wells Fargo, car donation place (but I need to get the year, model and mileage figured out first), insurance company, county clerk's office (for absentee ballot for Beast), SSA, ... endless, really. Which is why it's so hard to even get started.

11. Describe a “Hah! I told you so” moment you had recently.

Every damn day looking at the U.S. Government. Which is why I have backed far off news reports except in the very broadest sense.

12. What’s more important, where you live or what you do for a living? Why?

The most important thing is doing what needs doing. Bloom where you're planted and all that. I mean, if you hate your life, either move/change it, OR adjust. It doesn't pay to be miserable forever.

13. Swear words: Are you pro or con? Why?

Fuckin PRO! I grew up in a household where we couldn't even say "pee" or "Jeez" or "butt" without a smoldering look from Mom. It was ridiculous.

14. Paper or plastic? Do you prefer to pack your own groceries?

I bring my own bags if it's doable. Otherwise, I don't care. I used to say paper, but apparently the production and recycling of those is actually worse than that of plastic, so... I don't know.

15. Do you have a shoe fetish? How often do you buy new shoes? Do you ever get rid of a pair of shoes?

I get rid of shoes when they break or totally wear out. I try to stay out of shoe stores because it's so hard to not Buy Them All. I have to be super-focused.

Sunday Stealing x 2

(Link in meme-roll)
Never Have I Ever

1. Have you ever had chicken pox?

I had the chicken pox when I was in Kindergarten during one of the worst snowstorms of my childhood. It was so bad it was literally the only time I ever remember losing power in the house for multiple days. What this meant was being buried in heavy, itchy wool blankets on the couch while being instructed not to scratch the itches.

2. Have you ever shopped in Home Depot?

I have, quite often. I sort of feel like I need to switch loyalties to Lowes now that my brother works there, but HD is much nearer!

3. Have you ever spied on your neighbors?

Only from my front porch or the street. I do enjoy driving around in winter--during Christmas light season--peering in people's windows from my car but I never have felt the urge to peep.

4. Have you ever ridden in a limo?

Yup. I think that time of my life is over now though.

5. Have you ever had a pet fish?

I seem to recall bringing a fish home from a school carnival at some point, though I have no memory whatsoever of what happened afterward if I did.

6. Have you ever lied about your age?

When I was just under the legal age to drink, I did a few times. The "problem" is that when I was 18, the drinking age where I was was 18. They raised it to 19 weeks before I turned 19, and then in two years they raised it to 21 not too long before I turned 21. So, I never really had to lie. I've never been carded and rejected. My life is so hard!

7. Have you ever fired a gun?

Not a real gun. I had a cap-gun as a kid though. Loved that pistol!

8. Have you ever been ice skating?

Yes, once. I do not like falling down and I'm not at all graceful, so it really wasn't much fun.

9. Have you ever played golf?

Yup. I didn't suck.

10. Have you ever hidden on Halloween because you had no candy for trick or treaters?

Of course! When the candy is gone, it's gone.

11. Have you ever made a prank call?

Oh, dear, I spent some quality time doing weird phone tricks and calling people when I was 11 or 12. That was back in the day when you could actually dial your own number, hang up real fast, and the phone would ring and "connect" you with "yourself." And good old running refrigerators. ;-)

12. Have you ever gotten a tattoo?

Nope. Not interested. I tend to appreciate scars more than tats.

13. Have you ever had a massage?

For several years, I was getting a massage every month. That time in my life is probably over as well.

14. Have you ever locked your keys in the car?

All . The . Damned . Time . Seriously, I was never so glad to start driving a car as I was when I got my Ford Edge with the numerical door lock. I have not gone more than 3 months without having to use it to rescue my keys in the past 2-3 years!

15. Have you ever ridden a horse?

Yup. I would like to do it again, though I was fairly terrified.

16. Have you ever been to the circus?

Yes. Twice in America and once in Russia. I preferred the Russian one.

17. Have you ever been to Europe?

A few times. Right now, all other things being equal and assuming I could get a good job, I'd move to England in less than a heartbeat.

18. Have you ever built a fire?

Yes. Not too badly, either.

19. Have you ever been skydiving?

No, and I think it would be silly to start now. I'd probably kill myself. I've always wanted to, though, and one of our regular long-time patrons at the library took herself skydiving for her 70th birthday this summer. I was seriously impressed; she is quite retiring and quiet and sort of nervous. Props to her!

20. Have you ever bought something at a garage sale?

Yes, but not for a VERY long time!

21. Have you ever walked in on someone having sex?

Seems like that should have happened at least once in college, but I must have suppressed the memory.

22. Have you ever faked an injury to get out of something?

Of course. It's really been more of a case of playing up minor injuries/illnesses than total fabrication.

23. Have you ever been to a nude beach?

This is something I fear happening by accident, not something I'd do on purpose!!

24. Have you ever received a speeding ticket?

I have, indeed.

25. Have you ever run a marathon?

I've run INTO a Marathon (gas station), but I can't run from the house to the street so a marathon is not likely anytime soon.

Today is a Fashion Show

1. A way to win your heart

Tell me funny stories about yourself and make faces with/at little kids in public.

2. Something you feel strongly about

Donald Trump is a twat. [be assured that I do not use that last word lightly--I find it extremely offensive, and use it here only because what I want to call him is a word I simply cannot bring myself to type]

3. A book you love

The Long Winter by Laura Ingalls Wilder. As an adult, I have found comfort in the books of Proverbs and Ecclesiastes.

4. Five pet peeves

1. Loud talkers in places that really ought to be quiet (like hospital waiting rooms).
2. Entitled people of any age over about 5; the younger the age, the more forgiving I am.
3. Days when I hit every M-F'in light red, or I'm behind someone who refuses to speed up on a stale green.
4. Pennies.
5. Having to be a grown-up when all I want to do is be age 8 again.

5. What you ate today

Two breakfast burritos from McDonald's and diet coke. A cherry danish. A Quarter-Pounder, fries and another diet coke. A corner piece of day-old birthday cake. Half a can (so far) of diet Dr. Pepper, a hoagie roll with margarine and two Pop-Tarts. Don't judge me.

6. How important do you think education is?

Vital.

7. Five people you find attractive

Mike Tomlin.
Ryan Reynolds.
Sandra Bullock.
Helen Mirren.
Shemar Moore. (I mean, really!)

8. What you wore today

Gray clam-diggers, purple T-shirt, underwear, crocs sandles, and my "Care Team" ID tag.

9. Something you always think “what if” about

I really don't do this; I mean, there's literally nothing I can change about the past, so why worry about it. It can be a fun game, but it can bite you in the ass too.

10. Something you’re proud of

Sparky, though I can only take partial credit there. My career and my serenity; those are ALL on me, with a lot of help from my friends.

11. Something you lust after

Sleep.

12. A word/phrase that makes you laugh

There's a part in our readings at meetings that cracks me up every time we get together: "[12-step program], as such, ought never be organized..." Now THERE is an organization that is perfect for me!!

13. A quote you try to live by

"It is not your job to complete the task of perfecting the world, but neither are you free to desist from it." [Mishnah]

14. Something you like and dislike about yourself.

I like that I don't get hysterical very often. I dislike that I feel guilty about everything.

15. A problem that you have had

Making myself do things BEFORE they are due. I hate how much I procrastinate myself into boxes.

Friday 5

(Link in meme-roll)
Let’s Get Physical

1. How confidently could you turn a cartwheel right now?

   I've never been able to cartwheel even when young and in-shape. Now, being neither, there's no way I wouldn't end up in the hospital.

2. How (physically) flexible are you?

   I've also never been particularly flexible. My toes are pretty far from my fingers, and getting further with each passing day.

3. How are your Frisbee-throwing skills?

   FINALLY something I'm good at! I haven't thrown a frisbee in eons but I expect my muscle-memory would get it aloft and flying. I've been frisbeeing since I was 6 or so.

4. Which carnival game do you have the best shot at winning?

   Anything that has an element of chance over "skill." That water-gun thing is do-able too.

5. How good are you at toss-the-paper-in-the-wastebasket?

   I'm generally pretty bad at it--I miss the trash can at work regularly, and it's literally RIGHT UNDER MY RIGHT HAND! However, I'm killer at tossing an empty can or bottle into the recycling bin in the garage, so that's some compensation.

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
Take My Breath Away (1996)
Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) When were you last breathless?

Probably the last time I did anything strenuous. I can't remember.

2) This is the love theme from Top Gun, and the romance was between a pilot and his instructor. Have you ever had a crush on a teacher?

Oh yeah, for sure, starting in about 6th grade.

3) The pilots in Top Gun all had cool nicknames -- including Maverick, Goose, Merlin, Cougar and Stinger. Give yourself a cool pilot name.

Well, let's see: playing off "Goose"--How about "Duck."

4) The actress who played the instructor, Kelly McGillis, owns Kelly's Caribbean Bar/Grill and Brewery in Key West. It's known for its cheese and beer dip appetizer, served with warm pretzels. What's one of your favorite between meal snacks?

I'm not overly fussy; I've been trying to stick to somewhat healthy stuff like applesauce and almonds, but...not very successfully.

5) The group who recorded this week's song is called Berlin, but they're really from Southern California. Have you ever been to Berlin? How about Southern California?

I have not been to Berlin. I would like to visit some of the historical sites there, but I'm not sure when that's on the agenda at this point. I've been to SoCal several times. There's a lot to see. I'd happily force myself to live in or near San Diego. Beautiful city.

6) Lead singer Terri Nunn has a weekly radio show, Unbound on KCSN. How often do you listen to the radio? Do you tune in for music, comedy, news or talk?

I listen to Sirius XM if I have the radio on, but that's rare. I mostly listen to audiobooks or silence or Spotify.

7) In 1986, when this song was popular, PeeWee's Playhouse premiered. While ostensibly for children, PeeWee Herman's show had many, many adult viewers. Do you watch still watch any kid's shows?

I don't these days, no. I watched so many when Sparky was little that I think I'm covered until the appearance of any grandchildren.

8) Robert Pattinson, the actor who played Edward the vampire in the Twilight series, was born in 1986. Have you read the Twilight books? Seen the movies?

I read the first book. OMG so much drama and stupidity and poor writing!

9) Random question: In an alternate universe, which of these professions would you like to find yourself in -- United States senator, Ivy League professor, or [e]minent psychiatrist?

Probably a prof, though not likely in the Ivy League.

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
The Gal's Meme, Part One

What’s your favorite word or phrase?

"Actually..." In my head, it's probably more Anglo-Saxon and concise than that. I often mutter, in a British accent, "Fuck right bloody off, arsehole!" while smiling at people. I need to stop that before I get to England as THEY will bloody-well understand me and chastise me. :)

Tell us about a person who made you smile today.

I spent my afternoon at the birthday party of my 3-year-old great nephew Eli--though this photo is from a couple of months ago. Same shirt today though. lol He is as sweet-tempered as he looks in this photo, very huggy and kind-hearted.
His 10-month-old brother Jo is also dead-adorable, but that one is going to be a pistol once he gets upright and moving. We're going on vacation next month with them. It's going to be interesting; he should be walking (i.e. running) by then.

What were you doing at 8 am this morning?

(as opposed to 8 a.m. last night?) I think I was just leaving the bathroom and going back to bed. Not that I slept more, naturally.

What were you doing 30 minutes ago?

I was just starting this. It's been kind of a nutty half hour--making something to eat, seeing Beast off to a meeting, finding the photos of the boys, watching the women's gymnastics from the Olympics....

What is your favorite holiday? Why?

I love Thanksgiving. I love the reason for it, and I love the food and all the family gatherings.

Tell us about a visit to another country.

We're going to England in 29 days. My nephew Jesse is getting married near Bristol. We're renting a house with my niece and her family (above) and her parents (my sister & bro-in-law). We might not kill each other. It's probably the first time I've gone overseas without a mapped-out plan of what is available to do in the area. I have a couple of lists of sites and restaurants, but otherwise, TOTALLY playing it by ear, and that's fine.

What is the last thing you said aloud?

"Bon voyage!" to Beast as he left. Being silly: he'll be back by 9.

What was the last thing you had to drink?

I'm working on Diet Dr. Pepper now. Just finished some Diet Coke from McD's.

What are you wearing right now?

Army green clamdiggers and a white (with some blue) T-shirt, over the requisite underwear. And a layer of sweat.

What was the last thing you ate?

Some angel food cake bites. I should get some fruit salad to go with, since that was the deal.

Have you bought any new clothing items this week?

Nope.

When was the last time you ran?

I can't even remember.

What’s the last sporting event you watched?

Still watching women's gymnastics on TV.

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

...mountains. Please. Alone.

Who is the last person you sent a comment/message to on Facebook?

I posted something in a Facebook group an hour or so ago. Need to do my "who died in a gunfight today" post after I finish this meme.

Ever go camping? If yes, tell us about one time.

I have. There are not enough words in English to express the amount of dislike I have for camping. No plumbing, no heat or a/c, bugs, animals snuffling around outside, dirt, hard ground... And allergies. Every . Single . Time.

Do you have a tan?

I have some connected freckles on my arms. That's about the best I get.

Have you ever lost anything down a toilet?

...maybe that's where my mind went. (no, otherwise)

What is your guilty pleasure?

Sweets.

Friday 5

(Link in meme-roll)
Up and Autumn

1. Where do you rank October among the twelve months of the year?

   I'd put it in the top 3.

2. What time is the sun coming up where you live, and how does it affect your life or schedule?

   It's rising slightly before 7 these days. The only real effect I can think of is that it's right in my eyes when I'm sitting in the living room in the morning. And of course, it means winter is coming. Boo!

3. How do you manage to get enough fresh air and exercise in bad-weather months?

   Hah! I don't get much of that in the rest of the year, so there's no big change for me!

4. Holidays and weather aside, what are the best and worst things about the autumn months?

   Best is the smell in the air, the lower humidity, the crisp, cool nights, the light.... Bad things: occasionally brutally cold, and the sense of impending winter.

5. What are some good songs for the soundtrack of the season?

   ...this is why I don't really do mixtapes. I freeze up and can't think of anything. All that comes to mind are Halloween songs for kids!

... it stays with you

(from the Aimster)

Have you ever been to Legoland®?

Perish the thought! We have a Lego (technically, Duplo) table at work, and I think I've developed a strong repulsion toward the firm because of all the cleanup I've had to do around it over the years. Not to mention the zillions of pieces I've picked up at home. And at other kids' houses when I've babysat. ...I used to like Legos, too.

Have you ever done something heroic?

Nothing I would consider heroic. I suppose the definition of heroic is rather malleable though, so what I would call heroic might not fit your concept of it. And vice versa.

Have you ever built a snowman?

Considering I've lived in snowy climates my entire life, I've created surprisingly few of these. Like, maybe two?

Do you have any lucky items, objects or traditions?

I keep my one-year coin in my wallet and take it out occasionally to ponder. I should get a two-year coin next month. I always have Chapstick (or something like it) in my right front pants pocket. I actually feel a little freaked out if it's not there--this is a 25-year or more habit. I think I may have some other tics that I'm totally unaware of.

Do you have any superstitions?

There is a patron whose name NO ONE is allowed to speak at work! Somehow, whenever we mention that "E.E." hasn't been seen in awhile ... she shows up within the next 48 hours. There are some other work things that we all subscribe to. I do touch wood when I say something that might bring bad luck.

What's your favourite Movie quote?

" I don't patronize bunny rabbits." (Heathers)

Do you wear sunglasses indoors to look cool or stylish?

Nope. I don't actually own sunglasses per se.

Are you a hat person?

I like hats, but I really hate hat-hair, so I don't wear them very often at all.

Do you prefer digital or rotary/analogue clocks?

I'm not fussy. I do, however, like clocks to either match exactly with the rest of those in the building, or be set differently ON PURPOSE. For instance, the clock on my nightstand is set, intentionally, 10 minutes ahead of 'real time.' All the clocks at work say something different. It makes me nuts.

Have you ever been to a gym?

WTF? What planet did you grow up on that you didn't have to take gym class every goddamn year of your educational career?!
Of course. I've also been to a YMCA and a couple of workout centers. I am so very worldly.

Have you ever been wolf-whistled in public?

Yes. Ugh. The first time was when I was, like, 11 and sitting in my front yard. {{shudder}}

Have you ever been approached by someone who knew you but you couldn't remember them for the life of you?

Yes. Well, technically, no. Lots of people recognize me, some of them legitimately know me from work. I'm horrible at faces and names though so that does happen. And then there are the people who ask me if I used to live in [town I've never heard of] because I look just like the [grocery store clerk, school principal, librarian, whatever] there. It freakin' happened at the DOCTOR last week for cryin' out loud!

What do you do to keep fit?

I don't.

How often do you wash your ears?

Every time I wash my hair.

Could you go out with someone who had a child from a previous relationship?

As I've said before, I'm sure Beast would frown upon this arrangement. If there were no Beast in my life, I would think it would be pretty much impossible for me to date someone suitable who didn't have kids. At this point, said kids would likely be adults. It would be interesting.

How much would it cost to buy your love?

Depends on the day. Today, 50 cents and my phone number might do it.

What's the scariest thing you've ever done?

Hospitalizations count, right? Also, dealing with some of the bullshit Beast has pulled over the last 5 years has been ... harder than anything I could've imagined.

...Bad Tendency to Explode

(Swiped from Amy)

Do you like scary movies?

Not even a little tiny bit. I like suspenseful, rational movies. And comedies. Or a mix of all of that; that's the best.

What's your favourite Milkshake flavour?

I love random capitalization. ... Butterscotch.

Can you stand on your hands unassisted?

Only if I squat down really oddly....what? Oh, you mean upside down? Why the hell would I want to do that??

What do you have on your fridge door?

Dry-erase calendar and pen, a "drawing" (actually a scribble) from Justin, my eldest great-nephew, other random artwork from random kids, probably 30 magnets, the phone number for the electric company, the non-emergency police number, some recipes (technically, those are on the side), a magnetic rack (for school lockers) with scratch paper and pens in it, vouchers for free pizza orders, etc., etc.... OK, it's Packrat Central! Don't judge me!

What was the last DVD you purchased?

....uh.... Shoah? Maybe? That's what I remember anyway, and that was 5 years ago. I haven't watched it yet. It's one of those you have to be ready for, and it's 9 hours long, so....
Although I do buy about 5 DVDs a month at work if that counts.

What was the last piece of clothing you purchased?

I believe I bought a blouse recently? Otherwise it was clothes for Sparky for work. Dude was living in ratty jeans and 3- to 6-year-old T-shirts.

Which was your favourite science: Biology, Physics or Chemistry?

I loved my Anatomy & Physiology class so much--dissecting and systems and films of surgical procedures and blood-typing!! I was fortunate enough to be allowed to skip Bio (OMG, so boring--I loathed learning about cells every single time it came up in my educational career, even in college), I refused to even consider taking Physics, and Chemistry was interesting only from a geeky mathematical, rational standpoint. And of course "accidentally" blowing things up and injuring myself and/or others.

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
Unusual Things

1. Who was the last person of the opposite sex you laid in a bed with?

Well, Beast, of course.

2. Where was the last place you went out to eat?

"Went out" as in "sat in the restaurant" was Jimmy John's with Sparky on Thursday. "Went out" as in ate food made by someone besides me was DQ on Friday.

3. What was the last alcoholic beverage you consumed?

I had a glass of wine at a meeting about two weeks ago.

4. Which do you prefer - eyes or lips?

I prefer having both, thanks.

5. Medicine, fine arts, or law?

As ... what? Profession? Hobby? I honestly can't even figure out how to answer this. I'm not much interested in law or people who spend time thinking about law, but the other two are interesting to me. If I had to pick one of those broad areas in which to work, it would be fine arts.

6. Best kind of pizza?

California Pizza Kitchen's chicken and spinach white flatbread pizza.

7. Is your bedroom window open?

Nope. The front door is, and the A/C is on, so I need to remedy one or the other of those situations.

8. What is in store for your future?

Old age. At least, I sort of hope so...

9. Who was the last band you saw live?

I'm wearing a T-shirt right now for Starship, and I think (sadly) that was it. About 4 years ago now. Not really into concert-going anymore.

10. Do you take care of your friends while they are sick?

Only if they live with or near me. To be less flip, it depends on the illness. A cold, yes, I'll stop by if asked or hit the grocery store for them or whatever, but generally people just want to sleep and I can't help with that. Serious illness, though, I try to do what I can.

11. Any historical figures that you envy?

Hmmm. I envy the original disciples for being able to know Jesus in person--but really, I wish they'd've asked more sensible questions or written better lecture notes or something! I kind of envy whoever Shakespeare was writing all those love sonnets to. I've never really thought about envy in terms of historical personages though. Interesting concept.

12. How many songs are on your iTunes?

Zero. I don't use iTunes.

13. What brand of digital camera do you own?

Uhm....? I have no idea. I use my phone pretty exclusively. Maybe we have a baby Canon digital thingy.

14. When was the last time you got a good workout?

Hah!

15. Are you experienced?

Yes.

16. If you need a new pair of jeans, what store do you go to first?

Farm & Fleet or Kohls.

17. Are you a quitter?

At times. In some areas, I excel at quitting, in fact.

18. What are two bands or singers that you will always love?

Billy Joel. U2.

19. What of the seven deadly sins are you guilty of?

Oh, I'm definitely quite the Queen of Sloth. I can probably hold my own on a couple of others, but Sloth, yeah, that's what I'm all about.

20. Did you just have to Google the seven deadly sins to see what they were?

Nah. I couldn't name them all for you if you asked, but I know my skillset. ;-)

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
American Pie (1971)
Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) In the lyrics, Don McLean refers to having once been a paper boy. When you were a kid, what job or household chores did you do for spending money?

My family didn't work this way. Everyone did chores as requested/assigned because we were part of the household. This meant we always had to ask for money from Mom & Dad. Yes, it pretty much sucked. I started babysitting at 12 for other people's kids for money.

2) Them good old boys were drinking whiskey and rye. What's the last drink you ordered?

It's been months since I've had a drink of any kind. I would assume the last time I got one at a bar/restaurant was a Stoli tonic, lime twist. It's my usual. I may snag a glass of wine at a meeting this Tuesday night, but it always makes me overheat and turn bright red, and it takes about this much booze to get me tipsy anymore so maybe not.

3) He drove to the levee but it was dry. When is the last time it rained where you are?

Yesterday/overnight. It's "unseasonably cool" today and they can't decide what the weather is going to do for the weekend. Even within the same forecast online there are multiple answers.

4) When McLean was working on the song, he wrote the lyrics out in long hand. It took him 16 pages of lined notebook paper. Today it's a laptop/smartphone/tablet world, and Sam can't remember the last time she hand wrote anything longer than a sign on her front door that read, "Bell broken. Plz knock." What about you? What's the last thing you wrote with pen or pencil?

I take notes regularly at meetings which serves the benefit of keeping my mind occupied so I don't fall asleep AND keeps my mouth shut. I write, in pencil, in books daily at work. I write notes to people on scratch paper, take reserve requests and spell words for people to copy and write people's login information down.... I hand-write a lot. Not in big chunks anymore, but a lot. And still practice my penmanship. I'm such a throwback!

5) McLean's most recent CD is called "Addicted to Black," in reference to Olivia in The Twelfth Night. Quick! Without looking it up, name another character from Shakespeare.

Polonius.

6) Don was born in New Rochelle, New York, which was named one of The Best Walking Cities in America by the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA). What about your neighborhood? Is it easily walkable?

There are no sidewalks in my neighborhood, but also minimal traffic. We're one of those island subdivisions that you wouldn't drive through unless you're visiting someone or live here. And our house is at the very back, so there's literally NO reason to drive on our street unless you live on it or are visiting (or lost--quite likely). It's walkable. People here walk it, with and without dogs. I've walked it. But it doesn't go anywhere, just circles. On the other hand, we have two parks in the subdivision and people drive kids to them.  smh

7) In 1971, the year this song was popular, Walt Disney World officially opened. Have you ever been to DisneyLand or Disney World?

Been to both. Would like to return to Epcot and Animal Kingdom since the latter was brand-new when we were there and not quite finished, and the day we went to Epcot I felt very ill and we bailed at lunchtime after "Germany." Zero, or less, interest in seeing anything else.

8) Also in 1971, Mattel introduced Malibu Barbie. This doll was a "sun-loving California girl" and had a distinct tan. Have you ever used a tanning bed?

Well that's not where I thought this question would go! I had a Malibu Barbie as a child, but I will never, ever use a tanning bed. I have stark white northern European skin and have done enough damage to it with the, yknow, actual sun.

9) American Pie is also the name of a 1999 movie. Have you seen it?

Yuck. No.

Saturday 9

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

1) What would you say is your best quality?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Saturday 9 (late)

(Link in meme-roll)
Brother, Can You Spare a Dime? (1932)
Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) Bing Crosby wants a dime for food. Adjusted for inflation, 10¢ in 1932 is now worth $1.69. Can you think of anything you could buy at the grocery story with $1.69?

Several cans of vegetables/fruit. Generic cereal. A 2-liter bottle of brand sodapop. Some fresh produce (not much). It'll also buy you a breakfast burrito at McDonalds with money leftover.

2) This song was originally released as a 78 rpm record. Have you ever seen a 78?

We OWN several 78s! Beast's dad had a couple of dozen that he (mostly) transferred to CD, but we still have the originals. In their original sleeves in a couple of cases. And yes, should we wish to, we could even play them.

3) In 1932, Jean Harlow was Hollywood's glamor queen. Who do you think sets the standard for glamor today?

Probably Angelina Jolie. Or Princess Kate. I don't know, it's not my bailiwick.

4) One of 1932's best selling books was Agatha Christie's Peril at End House. She remains popular today. Are you familiar with her work?

Uh, yeah, I've read a LOT of Dame Aggie's works. This one doesn't ring a bell, but I've probably read it.

5) This week's featured artist, Bing Crosby, worked as a caddy when he was 12 and continued to enjoy time on the golf course his entire life. What type of exercise do you do most often?

I'm really good at running late.

6) Bing had twin sons, Dennis and Philip. Many people believe that the propensity for twins is hereditary. Are there twins in your family?

Nope. Thank God for small favors!

7) Bing's daughter, Mary Crosby, has her own place in TV history. Do you know why?

I do now, but I had forgotten she was a nighttime soap actress back in the day.

8) In the mid 1970s, Crosby and his family did commercials for Minute Maid. Do you have any orange juice in your refrigerator?

Nope. I got more than enough orange juice as a child. Unless it came out of the orange in the last 10 minutes, I'll pass.  

9) Now for something completely random: Do you like beef jerky?

I do. And yes, that is totally random.

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
I'm a Yankee Doodle Dandy (1942)

1) This week's song was performed by James Cagney in the famous movie of the same name. Do you plan on going to the movies this holiday weekend?

No. I've been noodling around going to the drive-in this summer at some point, though.

2) Though known for his larger-than-life screen presence, Cagney was only 5'5". How tall are you?

Between 171 and 172 cm.

3) During the Revolutionary War, General Washington celebrated the 4th of July by giving his troops a double ration of rum. Will you imbibe any spirits this holiday weekend?

We're a dry household these days when Beast is around.

4) American history was one of Crazy Sam's best subjects in school. In which class did you earn your best grades?

History and English were my favorites, but I did ok in Science and Math for the most part as well. And music and art. The only class I didn't get solid As in was gym.

5) The Fourth of July means we're in the middle of summer. Are you careful about applying sunscreen?

Yes. But I'm also not outside much this time of year.

6) Mosquito bites can be a major summer annoyance. Are you scratching any itches right now?

Nope. See above re outside time. I did have a couple long-life bites in May.

7) Emergency rooms report an increase in wrist injuries in summer, with people falling off bikes and skateboards and jamming their wrists catching hard-hit softballs. Have you ever had a sports-related injury?

One of my middle fingers is crooked from jamming it into a basketball during practice in 7th grade. That was my only basketball season. I also got hit the face with a baseball in gym class in junior high, but all it damaged was my glasses. Good excuse to sit out the rest of baseball rotation!

8) New York is home to Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest every year on the 4th. Will hot dogs be consumed in your household this weekend?

Yeah. I usually eat them right out of the package, cold. Or I cut them up into mac 'n cheese.

9) Atlanta hosts a 10K Peachtree Road Race every 4th of July. Are you a runner?

Only if someone with a machete is chasing me.

Friday 5

(Link in meme-roll)
Gatterstories
This week’s 5 is inspired by the party game Scattergories, in which players have to think of items, all beginning with the same letter, in several categories. For example, if the die is rolled and shows the letter T, players might have to name a soft drink, a farm animal, a river, and a U.S. President, all beginning with T. Valid answers might be Tab, turkey, Tennessee, and Tyler.

First, go to this nifty online random-letter generator. Set the “number of random letter sequences to generate” to 1. Set the “length of each random letter sequence” to 1. Leave the “letters to choose from” how it is and click the button. You’ll get a rather non-dramatic one letter. Use that letter to begin all your answers to the 5 questions below. Alternately, if you find that boring, you could set the “length of each random letter sequence” to 5, thereby giving you five letters, a different one for each question.

What random letter was generated by the online random-letter generator (this doesn’t really count as one of your five questions)?I'm going with jlfeu for each question (because I'm insane--I haven't looked at the questions yet, either)

1. What article of clothing, whose name begins with the letter, have you never worn?

E -- Evening gown
F -- Fascinator
J -- Jackboots
L -- Lederhosen
U -- Union suit

2. What book, whose title begins with the letter, are you looking forward to reading?

E -- Eye of the Red Tsar (Eastland)
F -- Falling Off the Map : Some Lonely Places of The World (Iyer)
J -- Jewish Literacy : The Most Important Things to Know about the Jewish Religion, Its People, and Its History (Telushkin)
L -- Library : An Unquiet History (Battles)
U -- Uglies (Westerfeld)

3. What mode of transportation, whose name begins with the letter, seems like it would be fun?

E -- Eighteen-wheeler
F -- Fire engine
J -- Jetpack
L -- Landau (ok, yes, I'm stretching here, but really, FINDING a landau in which to ride would be a trick)
U -- Unicycle

4. What form of exercise, whose name begins with the letter, have you recently engaged in?

I'm changing this to "would I consider engaging in," since otherwise this would be completely blank)
E -- Elliptical machine
F -- Fast walking
J -- Jumping jacks
L -- Lunges
U -- Upper back stretches

5. What fictional character, whose name begins with the letter, would be good company on a long trip?

E -- Elphaba Thropp
F -- Fagin
J -- Jane Eyre
L -- Linus Van Pelt
U -- Uhuru (as in Lt.)

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
The Star Spangled Banner

1) Are you a veteran? Are there veterans in your family? (We are grateful and want to hear about it.)

My father-in-law and my father served in the Army. FIL served in the early 50s during the Korean War in Germany; my dad was in the Army Air Corps during WWII. Neither of them saw combat. No one else has served, not because we aren't patriotic, but, at least in my family's case, we're mostly girls and my brother would have been sent to Vietnam had he been drafted. Beast and his brother came of age in the 80s and we weren't actually fighting big wars at the time. I think both our dads didn't really go with the ordering people around thing and encouraged their kids not to think that was a good work atmosphere.

2) Memorial Day also kicks off the summer season. What's your favorite picnic food?

Mom's potato salad. She used red potatoes. That makes a big difference.

3) Let's celebrate the Memorial Day holiday with ice cream. What's your favorite flavor?

Vanilla. I'm boring.

4) This marks the weekend when Americans step up their outdoor activity and do things they may not have been able to do during the winter months. For example, when is the last time you rode a bike?

Probably 9 years. We really should sell the damn things. We live at the top of a hill, so the end of the ride ALWAYS sucks.

5) Or went hiking?

Haven't been on an actual hike in years, but we did wander through some state parks in the Appalachians in Tennessee in March.

6) Or rode a horse?

About 7 years ago. And that would be the only time I've ridden a horse. Yes, in spite of growing up "out west" I didn't actually have to ride a horse to school. Which, yes, I was asked when I started college in the upper midwest.

7) Or toasted a marshmallow?

Maybe a year or so ago. I'm not really a fan of eating them, but I'll toast them for others and then eat the chocolate and graham crackers alone.

8) As you answer these questions, is there an air conditioner or window fan on?

The house fan is on, and the AC is on, but not running today. I may open the front door and a window in back now that it's cooling down.

9) Crazy Sam needs your help: What song or a performer would you like to see featured in a Saturday 9 this summer?

Sleigh Bells--Crown on the Ground, Janelle Monáe--anything really, but especially Dance Apocalyptic, Katy Perry--Roar would be good, Scissor Sisters--I Don't Feel Like Dancing, TobyMac--Speak Life, William Shatner (yes really)--Has Been, I Can't Get Behind That, or Common People, Emeli Sandé--Next to Me.... Is that enough?

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
Can't Buy Me Love (1964)
50 years ago this week, The Beatles made history with this song (hear it here). They became the first and only act in history to hold all 5 of the top slots in the Billboard Hot 100.

1) In this song, Beatle Paul offers to buy his girl a diamond ring. Do you wear rings?

I do: I have my wedding and engagement rings (which I think may need to be resized...again...sigh) and an anniversary ring. Sometimes I swap the latter for my mom's turquoise ring

2) This song was written by boyhood friends John Lennon and Paul McCartney, who went on to become the most successful songwriters of the 20th century. Tell us about your best friend from "the old neighborhood." Do you know where he or she is today?

The longest-term friendship I have is with Laura, who lived catty-corner behind my after-school sitter. I've had her phone number memorized for 43 years, though technically of course now I would reach her parents only, not her, at that number. We were casual friends during elementary school, but really connected firmly in middle school. Every day, we'd walk to school, and walk back to my house before she headed "down the hill" to her house (about a half mile away). Some days, her dad would drive us, or later, her older brother. We're still friends, though geographically far apart now, and there are some rifts that will probably never be completely healed (from my side at least). It's good to chat with her on Facebook.

3) The Ed Sullivan Theater, where the Beatles first performed to a mass American audience, is now the home of The Late Show with David Letterman. Do you have a favorite late night talk show?

Nope. Haven't watched talk shows in eons. I catch SNL fairly often, but that's the only late-night TV I care about at all.

4) In 1964, when this song became #1, one of top TV shows was My Favorite Martian. Do you believe in life on other planets?

Oh, man, I loved that show! And then, OMG, I discovered Ray Marsden--the Martian--was in South Pacific, playing my favorite character in that movie!
Yes, I kinda believe there might be something out there.

5) In those days, homes had rotary dial phones, often affixed to the wall, with the receiver always tethered by a curly cord. Does your home still have a landline phone?

We do. I miss those phones. They were totally built to last forever. Plastic just doesn't cut it these days.

6) 1964 was the year GI Joe first appeared on toy shelves. Tell us about one of your favorite childhood toys.

I had a Barbie doll, and a Dawn doll, and a Raggedy Anne doll, and a couple of others. And my brother's hand-me-down metal toy cars. And dirt. I played in the dirt a lot. And jacks. And a jumprope. And those cheapo grocery store plastic balls. Lots of board games. It sometimes pays to be the last kid.... Anyway, my favorites were the cars: endless hours making up stories about the people who drove them from "parking lot" to "parking lot" (the stepping stones in front of our house). I still have most of those, too, unlike the dolls which were taken over by my nieces and ruined and/or lost.

7) Ringo was the first Beatle to become a grandfather. His granddaughter, Tatia, is now a rock musician. If you were to follow your grandfather into his chosen profession, what would you be doing now?

My dad's dad built houses, and then did whatever else was needed to keep the family fed, clothed, and sheltered. My mom's dad worked for the railroad (Denver & Rio Grande).

8) Paul McCartney admits he enjoys watching MasterChef. What show do you go out of your way to catch?

All the alphabet shows: CSI, NCIS, NCIS:LA, NCIS:NO (yay, Scott Bakula), L&O:SVU....and I like Criminal Minds too. We DVR the first three. May add NO. The others I catch on the Ion or other cable channels.

9) The paparazzi has often caught Paul pedaling a bike around Martha's Vineyard. What's your favorite form of exercise?

Sleeping.

Blogthings

Your Mind is Vata

You are open to the world around you - people, places, and ideas. You are a curious person. You like to stay active ... both mentally and physically. You're the type of person who says yes to everything. When you are in balance, you are very flexible and open. You are ready to learn new things and take on the world. When you are out of balance, your anxiety and restlessness can get the better of you. And you tend to take on too much at once.

What Dosha Is Your Mind?

OK then: there you have it. I'm Vata. And I totally can't get my body in that position without immense pain and pretty immediate hospitalization.

Blogthings

You Are Bootcamp Class

When you work out, you like to challenge yourself to be stronger, faster, and better. You love a tough workout. In fact, nothing bores you more than a workout that's too slow or easy. You have to be in the zone when you exercise. You're not one to ever take it easy, and your workouts may seem a bit extreme to some. You can handle them though. Of all the types, you tend to be the most competitive. There's nothing like working out with others to get you motivated!

What Fitness Class Are You?

Nope, this isn't accurate. I really hate sweating and panting and being in agony the next day. But I do hate repetition, too. And I know that if I had a gym buddy I'd totally be at the gym everyday, both in competition and for social reasons.

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
Best Song Ever
Unfamiliar with this week's song? Hear it here. (This is their official video and it begins with a skit; music starts at 2:25.)

1) Dancing all night to the best song ever would be good for the cardiovascular system. When is the last time you exercised?

Depends on what you consider exercise. I don't work out, and I'm terribly out of shape. My heart rate gets up if I walk through the library too fast at closing. smh

2) The girl in this song is the daughter of a dentist. "Dentophobia" is fear of dentists. How do you feel about going to the dentist?

I was at the dentist last week. My hygienist is good, my dentist is very good, and they give good painkillers when necessary. I've never been afraid of the dentist, and I've had plenty of dental work done. It's like the annual Pap--unpleasant but necessary.

3) One Direction performed this on Good Morning, America. Do you watch morning TV? If so, which show?

I've watched Today since college, pretty much exclusively. I used to be pretty addicted to it, but in the past decade or so, I can't be arsed. It's all crap, really.

4) Listening to upbeat pop songs like this one makes Sam feel young. When is the last time you participated in an activity commonly connected to childen (like swinging on a swing, drinking chocolate milk, playing a board game, etc.)?

I don't really like chocolate milk, and it's way too cold to go to a park and swing (and I think the swings are under snow at this point anyway). Board game? Not recently. I can't think of anything childlike I've done recently, but I do hang out with a pretty decent number of teens semi-regularly. Does that count?

5) One of the boys, Louis Tomlinson, was an actor before joining the band. How many different professions have you tried? What were they?

I was a babysitter most of my teenaged years, a shelver at a library, worked and then scheduled in my college's language laboratory, did lots of basic secretarial work off and on over those years, made clam sauce and other Italian food over the course of one memorable week, delivered newspapers for a couple of years, and of course Mommed. Oh, and all those Mom-volunteer jobs: PTO, classroom help, school store, dance decor. And church-volunteer stuff too. LOTS of Sunday School teaching over the years....

6) The fans that have made One Direction millionaires are also the target audience for series like The Hunger Games, Harry Potter and Wimpy Kid. Do you read Young Adult literature?

Uhm, I think a lot of readers of The Hunger Games are substantially older than the 1D fans, and combining that series with the Wimpy Kid books is quite weird since that is definitely more the upper elementary age group, not middle school or high school. ANYHOO, though, yes, I read YA books, always have. There have always been absolutely amazing books being written "for kids" that a lot of adults miss out on. Oh, well, their loss.

7) If this is the "best song ever," what song do you consider the worst? Tell us which song just sets your teeth on edge.

Anything, ANYthing, Mariah Carey sings--she makes me want to scream and throw things. I'm not a fan of Geddy Lee's voice either, so Rush is ruined for the most part. And Robert Palmer, ugh.

8) One Direction performed at the Royal Variety Show for Queen Elizabeth. If you found yourself presented to Her Majesty, what would you say?

Oh dear God I would mumble and stutter and be ridiculous, I'm sure.

9) Right now, is your life moving in the right direction or are you feeling a bit aimless?

I'm not sure what the right direction looks like, but I'm ok with where things are headed right now.