Sunday Stealing

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Follow That Dream

1. My bestie and I once ...

giggled and rolled around my bed over a really dumb pun on my middle name for far too long. I don't think either of us reached "laugh till you pee" status, but oh my god we were in hysterics. All either of us has to say to each other to this day 45ish years later is that dumb pun.
Hi, Kermie! (or were you Bear?)

2. When I'm nervous ...

I bite my cuticles. Also when I'm bored. But thanks to the wonders of modern medicine I am rarely nervous. I do, however, have the occasional anxiety attacks, which are a whole other deal that involves my heart speeding up and a total inability to focus or sit still. 

3. My hair ...

is uncombed this morning. I have a big barrette holding it off my neck and face so I could wash my face. 

4. When I turn to the left, I see ...

(if I were standing) the dining room which is stacked with random effluvia that really needs to be sorted and disposed of. However, since I'm sitting, when I look left I mostly just see the end-table with pop, hemp gummies, an empty bento that had my breakfast in it, my pill box, etc. We won't mention the lower shelf...

5. My favorite aunt ...

 ... the only aunt I actually remember wasn't a barrel of laughs, though she did buy me a blue sno-cone once (which pissed off my parents). The only other aunt I kind of remember babysat me during my sister Ellen's wedding reception when I was 5 or 6. I barely remember her. My parents' Families of Origin were quite distant from my world, being as how both of them were late-in-life babies and so was I. My grandmas were pushing or well-over 80 when I appeared, so it was a full two generations between me and them.

6. I have a hard time understanding ...

anything involving finance. I just go completely blank in my head and retain nothing. I understand basics--paying bills, credit cards, interest accrual--but planning for my future feels like some kind of arcane magic.

7. You know I like you if ...

I offer to spend time with you outside of required meetings or whatever. "Spend time" in this case involves social media time or actual F2F meetups. 

8. When I was 5 years old ...

four major leaders in my county had been assassinated since my arrival on the planet; my sister had survived a disease that killed 97% of those who were diagnosed, my grandpa had died, and my dad had survived his first heart attack. Is it any wonder I was a little stressed as a kid? It wasn't exactly a calm, safe place in 1968 in the U.S. 

Friday 5

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Geez I’m sorry

1. What was the nature of your most recent change in diet or eating habits?

I haven't been eating well for awhile. Mostly I snack, and I've been trying to keep those to the "slightly healthy" or at least not all carbs. I had salami-wrapped mozzarella and candy for dinner tonight, so I'm not exactly winning the war. 

2. What do you consider (in order of importance) when finding a new hairstylist or barber?

I haven't had a haircut in a salon since 2017. At this point, it will be price because I could use someone to even up the ends. 

3. Which of your childhood friends would you like most to hear from this weekend?

Hmm. Probably Laura, but that's unlikely. She's also one of the few truly childhood friends that I'm still in contact with.

4. When have you most recently been asked to drive someone somewhere, and when have you most recently needed someone else to drive you somewhere?

Sparky picked me up and dropped me off a couple of weeks ago when I had to replace all my tires. I can't remember chauffeuring anytime in recent memory.

5. How’ve you been sleeping lately?

About the same as ever, with slightly more tendency toward anxiety attacks at the beginning of the night. I love me my CBD, and Xanax.

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)

I'll Be Loving You (Forever) – 1989

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

 

1) A Greek philosopher said, "There is nothing permanent except change." The New Kids on the Block sang, "I'll be loving you forever." Who do you think is right? Or can both be right?

Not to be super-deep but the way you love someone changes over time. Or else it dies. The way I love Sparky now, for instance, is entirely different from the semi-panicked tiger-mom style parenting I did when she was a baby-baby.

2) In this week's song, New Kids lead singer Jordan Knight sings that he can't take a broken heart. What advice would you give someone struggling through the end of a romance?

Be sad. But there's no need to wallow. Try to find some kind of silver lining ("hey, at least I don't have to put up with their annoying dog anymore!"), remind yourself that you are enough and there's plenty to do whether or not you have a 'date' for events. Just go on.

3) Jordan was invited to join the New Kids on the Block by his friend, Donnie Wahlberg. Has a friend ever gotten you a job? 

Yes, my current job was 'assigned' to me by a good friend when she retired. She's also the one that 'told' the director at the time to hire me. 😜

4) Donnie began his show business career as a singer/rapper. Now he's probably better known as an actor, appearing for 14 seasons on a popular police show. Can you name it?

Nope. I'm not a fan of his. 

5) Much of the video for this song was filmed in the gymnasium of Xavier High School in New York City. When is the last time you were in a high school gym?

Wow. I think that would be Sparky's high school graduation 13 years ago, and I'm not at all mad about that!

6) The video also shows the boys enjoying pizza. What toppings are on your dream pizza?

Canadian bacon (or regular bacon in a pinch), mushrooms, onions, maybe sausage, with red sauce.
Or chicken and spinach, with white sauce.

7) The band is back together! The New Kids on the Block will be appearing this summer at the Park MGM in Las Vegas. Do you have any concert plans this year?

Absolutely not. My concert-going days are far in the rear-view mirror, except for very small venues. 

8) In 1989, when this song was popular, Irish golfer Rory McIlroy was born. He recently won the prestigious Masters Tournament. Tell us about a competition you won. (Yes, your third grade spelling bee counts.)

I won a poster contest in junior high school that was an opinion cartoon about the American Revolution. I won a 30-cent coupon for the Tastee-Freez across from the school. I never used it.

9) Random question – On which game show would you do better: Jeopardy! or Wheel of Fortune?

 I would probably WIN more on WoF, but I hate that show so much. I'd like to say I'd do well on Jeopardy but I haven't watched in awhile, so I'm kind of out of the groove.

Saturday 9 x 2

(Link in meme-roll) 

Why Did I Choose You? (1965) 

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

1) In this song, Barbra Streisand reassures her lover that, if she had it all to do again, she would still choose him. Tell us about a decision you've made that you never, ever regretted. 

Despite weeks of homesickness freshman year, I never actually regretted going to college so far from home. It was the only decision I could make to save myself from stagnation.

2) The music was composed by Michael Leonard, who studied classical music at Julliard and the Handel Conservatory of Music in Munich. Do you often listen to classical music? 

Not much. It tends to make me sleep, or else I fall too deeply into listening to parts and replaying and crawling inside it. 

3) The lyrics were written by Herbert Martin. He taught music in the NYC public school system and during the summer worked in summer stock. That's how he met and began collaborating with Michael Leonard. Tell us how you met someone important in your life. 

See question #1. Some of the best relationships, long-lasting ones, of my life started at college, including meeting my now-husband. Almost all of them were distinctly driven by chance and being aware in the moment of the goodness of people.

4) Ms. Streisand was a very good student, graduating fourth in her class at Erasmus Hall High School when she was only 16. One of Barbra's classmates was Neil Diamond. Do you have a favorite Neil Diamond song?

"America" is meaningful to me. Aside: I saw on Facebook this week that he is now 80! Unreal. 

5) While she didn't go on to college, she continued her education by attending two different acting schools simultaneously. Did you enjoy being a student? 

I was an excellent student: attentive, a sponge for info and meaning, good at tests, quiet, well-behaved. None of these things have been particularly useful as a functioning adult except maybe the attentiveness and understanding meaning (rather than surface information).

6) Barbra and her first husband, Elliott Gould, shared a New York apartment over a 5th Avenue restaurant called Oscar's Salt of the Sea. Elliott originated the role of Trapper John in the movie M*A*S*H. On TV, the role of Trapper was played by Wayne Rogers. Can you think of another role that's been played by more than one actor? 

Aunt Viv. Darren Stevens.

7) Oscar's Salt of the Sea has ties to Sesame Street. Jim Henson loved their food and was amused by how inhospitable the owner, Oscar, could be. That's how Oscar the Grouch got his name. Which is your favorite Muppet?

I am developing a deep understanding of Oscar, but I feel mostly like Grover, which is an old family (first) name too. 

8) Back to Barbra ... She is a successful recording artist (nominated for 45 Grammy awards, winning 8) and an Oscar-winning actress, but she's suffered career disappointments, too. In 2010, she read the book Hidden Figures and tried to buy the rights so she could direct the film version. She lost out to fellow Brooklynite, director Theodore Melfi. In 2016, his movie of Hidden Figures was released. Did you see the movie or read the book? 

I saw the movie: stunning! The book was reputed to be deadly dull so I skipped it.

9) Random question: Your best friend takes up painting and proudly presents her first framed work to you. You think it's atrocious. Would you hang it in your home anyway? 

I would, for awhile, and maybe not in an obvious place where I'll see it that often.

 

Sunday Stealing x2

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Tea and Q&A

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

7. What color is your bathroom?

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

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

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

9. What is your least favorite thing to cook?

Anything complicated and fussy.

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

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

11. What are three things on your bucket list?

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

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

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

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

The gift of my absence.

14. What is your favorite candy?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

From Smellyann

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

11. Does love = sex?

Not usually.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Saturday 9 x 2

(Link in meme-roll)
Baby Love (1964)
Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) When this song was popular, the Supremes were known for their elaborate hairstyles, make up and full-length gowns. When was the last time you got dressed up?

A VERY long time. Over a year, probably. I wasn't even really all that dressed up for the wedding I went to, as I recall, but it wasn't a super-fancy wedding with required formal wear anyway.

2) "The girls," as they were known to the engineers and executives at Motown Records, were Florence Ballard, Mary Wilson and Diana Ross. They began singing together when they were high school classmates. Are you still in touch with any friends from your high school days?

I am. I have probably a dozen from my high school that I'm friends with. Some of them were not friends per se at the time, but are wonderful to know now.

3) Mary Wilson was born in Mississippi and her family moved a great deal before settling in Detroit, where she fatefully met Florence and Diana. Were you uprooted often when you were a child? Or did you spend your school years in the same neighborhood?

My parents lived in the same house from 1946ish until 1994. The only one of us who ever lived anywhere else was my oldest sister who was born in 1943 and with my mom followed my dad around the U.S. a bit during WWII.

4) The Supremes began as a quartet called the Primettes. In addition to Mary, Flo and Diana, there was Betty McGlown. In 1960, Betty left the group to get married and was replaced by Barbara Martin. In 1962, Barbara left the group to have a baby. They quit trying to replace the fourth voice, soldiered on as a trio, and made pop history. Have you ever found yourself in a position similar to Betty's or Barbara's, where you had to make a difficult decision and choose between your personal life and your career?

Of course. I was a mom in late-20th-century America.

5) Thinking of babies and "baby love," is anyone in your life expecting a baby in 2018?

Not that I'm aware of at this point. Actually, someone at church just had her second child last week. I don't think I know anyone else who is currently pregnant, however.

6) With twelve #1 hits on the Billboard Hot 100, The Supremes remain America's most commercially successfully recording group, and this song (along with "Stop! In the Name of Love") is one of the most popular karaoke songs. If we handed you the mic this morning and absolutely insisted you perform, what song would you choose (any song, any genre)?

I can rock out to any mid-century Sunday School song you name.

7) Original group member Florence Ballard left the group in 1967. She died of cardiac arrest in 1976 at the age of 32. Since February is National Heart Month, it seems appropriate to ask: Is anyone in your life battling heart disease?

Yes. My sister has some heart issues, and one of my favorite people at work had a heart attack last year, out of nowhere. She's over 70, though. Thirty-two? That's really young. I'm waiting for my turn, since I'm sure I'm headed that way.

8) Florence Ballard's brother, Hank, wrote Chubby Checker's famous dance song, "The Twist." When did you last dance?

I dance around sometimes while I'm cleaning or cooking, and I car-dance semi-regularly. Really dance? A long time. OK, I "danced" with my baby-nephew at that wedding mentioned above, mostly to keep him from screaming and generally happy.

9) Random question: Close your eyes and visualize the most beautiful place you've ever been. Now describe it to us.

I've been to loads of different places that I found beautiful. My favorite is a certain little town in Colorado:

Obv not my photo

The Love Club (2013)
Unfamiliar with this week's song. Hear it here.

1) Lorde has said this song is about a time when she fell into "a bad crowd." Her high-maintenance new friends were all about their romantic dramas and it overwhelmed her. Have you ever had a friend who was just too much work?

Yes, though once I got done with education, I became a lot more discerning in my selection of friends.

2) She sings that she longs to be alone. Where do you go when you want peace and quiet?

My corner of the couch. Or bed.

3) Lorde credits her mother for encouraging her verbal skills. "Mum" let her join a theater class when she was just 5 and was always giving her books. Tell us about an encouraging, understanding adult who assisted you when you were growing up.

I had good teachers all over the place and a couple of my sisters were good cheerleaders for me.

4) Lorde is not the only celebrity from her class at Belmont School in Auckland, New Zealand. Olympian Eliza McCartney was a classmate who went on to win a bronze medal in Rio for the pole vault. Did you participate in any sports in high school?

I did not.

6) Lorde wrote music for one of the Hunger Games soundtracks. Have you seen any of the Hunger Games movies, or read any of the books?

I've seen the first two. I didn't like the last book in the series, so I just bailed on the movie.

7) Her favorite candy is Peanut M&Ms. Do you prefer Milk Chocolate, Peanut, Almond, Mint or Cripsy M&Ms?

Plain or Crispy. I'm not a fan of chocolate with nuts, and I loathe chocolate mint.

8) When Lorde was on stage at Lollapalooza, a sudden storm interrupted her set. The music festival was evacuated and her performance was cancelled. Can you think of a time when the weather had a major impact on your plans?

I'm a bit British this way, in that sometimes it doesn't matter what the weather is doing; life goes on. However, there've been some storms in my life that have caused everything to come to a halt.

9) Random question: Please complete this sentence -- Before I leave the house, I always _________________.

...check to be sure I have a way to get back inside.

Sunday Stealing x2

(Link in meme-roll)
Hodgepodge

1. January was National Mentoring Month. Have you ever had a mentor? Been a mentor? How would you rate the experience?

I have been mentored my entire career in various ways. I try to be a mentor to others both professionally and outside of work.

2. What current trend makes no sense to you?

Uhm, well, I'm extraordinarily confused by the amount of mean, nasty, horrible, inhumane and thoughtless behavior being exhibited, in fact flaunted by those in the highest offices of this country.

3. I saw a cartoon on Facebook highlighting a few 'weird' things that make you happy as an adult. The list included-writing with a nice pen, having plans cancelled, freshly cleaned sheets, eating the corner brownie, cleaning the dryer lint screen, and sipping coffee in that brief time before anyone else wakes up. Of the 'weird' things listed which one makes you happiest? What is one more 'weird' thing you'd add to the list?

I like clean sheets, and cleaning the dryer lint screen makes me happy too. Another weird thing I find myself enjoying is when people at four-way stops all do it correctly and fairly.

4. What's the last good thing you ate?

I made chicken for dinner tonight. It was pretty good. The bread I bought today is also REALLY yummy. I like me some good bread.

5. Describe life in your 20's in one sentence.

Absolute confusion interspersed with moments of joy and despair.

6. It's that time of year again...time for Lake Superior University to present a list of words (or phrases) they'd like to see banished (for over-use, mis-use, or general uselessness) in 2018. This year's top vote getters are -- unpack, dish (as in dish out the latest rumor), pre-owned, onboarding/offboarding, nothingburger, let that sink in, let me ask you this, impactful, Covfefe, drill down, fake news, hot water heater (hot water doesn't need to be heated), and gig economy
Which of these words/phrases would you most like to see banished from everyday speech and why? Is there a word not on the list you'd like to add?

I'm pretty tired of anything coined by a Trump family member, but DUUDE, I've used "hot water heater" since I was a wee tot! Stop taking away my stupid words!

7. What's something you need to get rid of in the New Year?

Procrastination. It's going to kill me. I'm not even overstating that, either.

8. Where do you feel stuck?

With my financial questions.

9. January is National Soup Month. When did you last have a bowl of soup? Was it made from scratch or from a can? Your favorite canned soup? Your favorite soup to make from scratch on a cold winter's day?

I never make homemade soup, and I think the last soup I had was probably from Panera (chicken/wild rice). I love clam chowder, and virtually any cream soup. Broth soups, not so much.

10. Tell us one thing you're looking forward to in 2018.

I'm making precisely zero plans, beyond having no expectations about anything, this year.

Brrr

1. Do you prefer winter or summer? Why?

A brisk, sunny winter day is lovely, as long as it's not snowing. A hot sunny and not humid day is also lovely. I generally prefer summer just because there's less crap to deal with in terms of clothing, driving, etc.

2. What are your favorite winter activities?

Staying inside with a book and a blanket and a glass of pop.

3. Can you tell me about a time you went skiing or skating?

It's literally been decades since I had skates on. I've never skiied.

4. Have you ever made a snow angel?

Yes. Not recently. Maybe I'll play the neighborhood goofball and do one in the yard tomorrow after the new snow tomorrow.

5. Is your house cold?

It's about 68 in here for another hour or so. Then it will go down to 60 overnight.

6. Do you have a fireplace in your house?

Yup. The last time I tried to use it--last month--I forgot to open the draft and had a flashover that caught my bangs on fire briefly and smoked up the whole house, setting off the smoke alarms everywhere. So, I'm not using it again till I get a lesson.

7. What do you usually do to keep warm in the winter?

Stay inside wearing multiple layers of clothes and blankets.

8. Have you ever gone hiking in the snow?

Yup. Not since I began to fear falling and breaking bones though.

9. Tell me about a snowball fight you had.

I pretty much never had a snowball fight. I got hit with one once with a rock inside (Jeff, the football-head kid in my school, threw it) and that pretty much did it for me. I just throw handfuls of snow.

10. Have you ever looked at a snowflake carefully?

Of course.

11. Do you have a sled? Have you been sledding?

We might have a sled somewhere; we seem to have everything else! I used to go sledding with my dad when I was a kid; there's a street that's a big sweeping hill near the house where I grew up that the city closed off every year for kids to sled on.

12. What do you usually do after a big snowfall?

Wait to get plowed out of the house. We have a long and fairly wide driveway, and I don't shovel.

13. What’s the best thing about winter?

Sweatshirts and socks. And, I guess, lack of humidity.

14. What’s the worst thing about winter?

Being cold ALL THE TIME!

15. Have you ever been in a blizzard?

Yes. About 5 years ago, driving home from a meeting, Beast and I were in a storm when we found ourselves in a complete whiteout. We went off the road, killed a tire on the car, all within about 5 miles from our house. I was updating everything on Facebook as it happened, but I was completely terrified; we literally COULD NOT see anything on the road. A car passed us and we didn't see it (headlights on and all) till it was next to us. I can't even imagine doing this in a wagon 150 years ago!

16. Can you describe ice for me?

Cold, crunchy, slippery, and if you hold it against your skin for too long it will burn.

17. Have you ever slipped on ice and hurt yourself?

Fuck yeah. See #8.

18. Have you ever had to shovel snow?

My freshman year of college, after I got home for break, it snowed on Christmas Eve. Dad and I spent three hours clearing the driveway the next morning. Then after lunch, we went back out and cleared the sidewalks for a couple of hours. Two-plus feet of snow. That was the most exciting time, but I've moved my share of wet stuff over the years. No more, though. My back just can't (and I'm really out of shape).

19. Will you be watching the Olympics?

If it's on at the facility, Beast and I may watch some. I'm not watching here at home.

20. If yes, what are your favorite events?

I like skating and slalom skiing.

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
Heartbreak Hotel (1956)
Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) Elvis checked in to the hotel at the end of Lonely Street. Where was the last hotel or motel you stayed at?

It was last year, near a State Park where I spent a getaway weekend by myself. Irony Street.

2) He sings that Heartbreak Hotel is always crowded. The fear of crowds is so prevalent that it has four names (enochlophobia, ochlophobia, demophobia and agoraphobia). Are you comfortable in a crowd?

I'm rarely actively fearful in a crowd, but I don't like being in a mass of people just because people act weirder in a crowd than they do individually. I don't want to get mixed up in any of that negative, dangerous weirdness. Plus, I just hate waiting (I'm so American), and where there are crowds there are lines.

3) The desk clerk at Heartbreak Hotel is dressed black. Do you often wear all black?

Often enough, though that is mostly by accident. I just have a lot of dark-colored clothes, especially in the winter. My new coat, though, is bright blue. I love it.

4) The song was written by Mae Boren Axton, who said it was inspired by the story of an anonymous young man's suicide in a hotel. She said she read in The Miami Herald that the John Doe left behind a note that said, "I walk a lonely street." What's the last note you handwrote? (Hopefully it was more upbeat.)

I wrote some notes yesterday during my meeting with the facility director where Beast is living. I write notes every day. Most of them are to me, and end up in the recycling bin eventually.

5) When Elvis was 11, his parents bought him a guitar. He had asked for a rifle, but his mama convinced him a guitar was a better idea. Tell us about a time one of your parents was right about something.

My parents were, of course, as all parents are, usually right about the important stuff. My mom told me once she'd "never liked" one of my high school friends, and in some ways she was right. On the other hand, she thought another friend was wonderful, and he was my source for all things drug- and alcohol-related, so she wasn't quite on point (on fleek? I don't understand how this is supposed to work) on that one.

6) Not long before "Heartbreak Hotel" was recorded, Elvis' father recommended he give up the guitar and become a truck driver. Tell us about a time one of your parents was wrong about something.

Ooops, I jumped the gun there. I'll just say that I can't think of too many instances of my Dad being wrong; he stuck to the Big Advice, like loving people and trying hard to do right by them. This shouldn't be read that he was perfect by any means! He also injured himself badly in the eye during a safety meeting on his worksite when I was 10.

7) There are many stories about Elvis' manager, Col. Tom Parker. One anecdote, about his career before Elvis, has the Colonel painting sparrows yellow so he could sell them as canaries. Have you ever been ripped off?

Oh yeah, a few times over 54 years.

8) Speaking of birds, Elvis once owned a peacock. It damaged his cars, so he gave it to the Memphis Zoo. In earlier days, it might have been dinner, for peacock was considered a medieval delicacy. What's the last poultry you prepared?

I bought a barrel of KFC last weekend and ate it all week. The last time I cooked it? Months. Literally. I haven't cooked much in the last few months, except reheating things and/or making soup or spaghetti.

9) Random question: You and a friend have dinner at a restaurant. Your friend left her wallet at home, so you pick up the entire tab of $62, including tip. A few weeks later, you two meet for lunch and when the bill comes, she puts down half. Do you remind her that she still owes you $31 from the last time you dined together?

If she's a good friend, I'm pretty sure this discussion would have already happened, and the only comment I'd make now is raised eyebrows. In fact, I'd like to think that I'd put on my coat and wave bye, but I doubt I'd have the nerve. But we certainly would have separate checks if (big if there) we ever had a meal together henceforward.

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
Year End HodgePodge

1. Where have you found unexpected magic or delight this holiday season?

Friends. People are great.

2. What's your favorite type of holiday gathering? Will you/have you gathered in your favorite way this month?

I got to see all my nearby family members, including the kids. No stress, no fuss.

3. Time has named 'The Silence Breakers' (women who came forward with stories of harassment) 'person of the year' for 2017. Would you agree? If not, who do you think deserves the title?

I'm ok with this. I wish it were more than a pedestal and meant something beyond symbolism, but yeah.

4. How did you spend your time this year? Are you happy about that? Elaborate.

I spent a lot of time caretaking. I guess I know how to do that. I still don't enjoy it very much, but I'm pretty good at it.

5. Bid farewell to 2017 in ten words or less.

Good . Fucking . Riddance ! Don't let the door hit you in the ass.

6. Insert your own random thought here.

I finally got my heart's desire this year: lots of alone time and time and reasons to make all my own decisions all the time. Be careful what you wish for, folks.

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
It's Just Another New Year's Eve (1977)
Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.
Welcome to the last Saturday 9 of 2017! Thanks for a great year, everyone.

1) In this song, Barry Manilow declares New Year's Eve is "just another night." How do you feel about 12/31? Is it a special occasion or just another night?

Just another night of massive amounts of fireworks being set off in the middle of the night. I'm excited about the Tournament of Roses Parade on New Year's Day, but this year especially tomorrow is just nothing. Someone gave me a bottle of sparkling grape juice. Maybe I'll pop that open. woo . hoo

2) Barry sings that in the past year, "we've made mistakes." What in 2017 do you wish you could do over?

Oh jeeeeeez. This is why I don't do regrets; this YEAR is why I gave up regrets and do-overs decades ago. If I knew last year this time what was coming, I'm pretty sure things wouldn't have panned out at all the way they did. ... It might have been worse, I guess. {somehow}

3) He also sings of happy nights with friends. Tell us about a really good time you had in the past year.

Uhm. There were flashes of fun, some seriously hysterical laughs, and good times with kids. I didn't have a vacation, and my home-life essentially sucked. I'm learning a lot about myself--some of it's even good stuff--but over all, I don't remember "a really good time" this year. Maybe my discovery of podcasts?

4) The song references growing wiser, as well as older. What's something you learned or discovered in 2017?

I have always thought I was a tough chick, despite outside appearances. Now I know I am, and I'm not here to waste my time on anyone else's bullshit. I'm not going to stop anyone's bullshit, but I'm also not going to spend any time on it if I can stop myself. Also, some of the worst bullshit is that of people closest to me, or so I thought.

5) What do you wish you had spent more time doing during 2017?

Reading. Taking care of myself. Throwing things away.

6) What was the smartest thing you did all this past year?

Called for help. Often.

7) As this year comes to a close, what are you most grateful for?

Friends. Holy crap, I am so fortunate to have an amazing group of friends. Also, my niece has stepped up hard this year, and my brother has been a surprisingly helpful presence for me too.

8) When this week's featured artist, Barry Manilow, was a jingle writer, he wrote the famous "You deserve a break today at McDonald's" song. When's the last time you visited the Golden Arches?

Uhm. Tuesday, I think? For breakfast?

9) Random question: In high school, were you more popular with the boys or the girls?

I wasn't popular at all. I had a tight circle of (mostly) girls that I hung with. I was terrified of guys.

Pre-wedding doin's

You Are Becky

You are the ideal friend, girlfriend, and wife. You are easygoing, loyal, and friendly. Sometimes you think your friends don't deserve you. While that may be true, you love them anyway!

What Bachelorette Are You?

OK, as far as it goes, though I'm not sure about this "deserving" business.

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
The Joker (1973)
because Stacy recommended it.
Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) In this song, Steve Miller claims he's a picker, grinner, sinner, lover, smoker and joker. Do any of those six words describe you?

We're all sinners. I'm often grinning and joking I don't smoke, or pick. I guess I'm a lover, though.

2) He maintains he's still a midnight toker. When's the last time you got high?

If you include booze in the mood-altering things, then last October.

3) The lyrics include a reference to peaches. Name your favorite fruit.

I do like fresh-off-the-tree peaches. Not grocery store peaches--yuck. I guess my overall favorite is apples. Also best right-off-the-branch, but they're OK from the store, at least until spring.

4) This song had a big impact on the character of Joey on Friends, who had an imaginary friend named Maurice with the occupation of space cowboy. Did you ever have an imaginary friend?

Yup. I think ALL imaginary friends are space cowboys! However, mine was pretty much gone by 1973....

5) Steve Miller is the pride of Milwaukee, WI. What else is Milwaukee famous for?

Miller Beer. A stupid sheriff right now. The guys who made the Airplane movies. That's three. I could dig up another couple of dozen off the top of my head if you'd like?

6) Steve Miller considers himself a serious blues guitarist. When did you last feel like singing the blues?

Damn, it's a daily thing. White-person blues.

7) In 1973, when this song was popular, you could buy a portable 8-track tape player for $44.50. On what device do you listen to music most often?

I mostly listen to Spotify, then probably Sirius XM (in the car). My car CD player needs work--it plays but there's a weird echo effect in music that's really distracting.

8) A Curious George book packaged with a Curious George plush toy was a big seller at Christmas 1973. Tell us about a toy -- either given or received -- that brightened a holiday or birthday for you.

We gave Sparky a Pillow Pet his freshman year in college for Christmas. It was adorable how much he adored that thing during college...which is about how long it lasted too.

9) M*A*S*H was one of TV's top-rated shows in 1973. Who is your favorite M*A*S*H character?

This is a hard question. It depends on the day: some days are just Klinger days, some days are Radar days. Hot Lips had some really good traits. Both of the colonels were wonderful in their own ways. Hawkeye, of course. I can't say I ever found Frank or Charles very appealing, and Trapper never connected with me. I did like BJ a lot. My absolute favorite "visiting" character was Sidney Freeman, though.

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
The Ginormous Questions

1. Are you single?

Well, I'm not plural. But I am married.

2. Are your parents still married?

Technically, I guess so. They are both dead, however, so I don't actually know their current status. They never divorced while either was alive.

3. Are you in love?

"In love"=no. I did have a VERY weird dream overnight about this topic involving someone I only know through Facebook and a mutual friend.

4. Do you believe in love at first sight?

I don't. My sister Jean did. Even when she told me--some 15 years after she married the guy--I thought she was insane.

5. Who ended your last relationship?

Lack of attention (and I'm going with friend-relationship, since any ending of dating relationships was 32-odd years ago).

6. Have you ever been hurt by a break up?

Even as the breaker-upper, there's always some pain, yeah.

7. Have you ever broken someone’s heart?

I so hate this question. We break the hearts of others every day over the smallest things: a rude gesture, an eyeroll, a firm "NO!" As a parent, when Sparky was around all the time I sort of felt like the world's biggest heart-breaker. Usually for his safety and well-being, but sometimes because I was tired, or just being ridiculous ("the sound of the fan is SO LOUD--TURN IT DOWN NOW!" about a ceiling fan turned on low), or some confluence of bad timing.

8. Have you ever had a secret admirer?

It's still a secret. Unless the dream last night counts, since that was actually part of the dream.

9. Prefer love or lust?

Prefer love.

10. Prefer a few best friends or many regular friends?

Few besties. My delimiter for friendship seems to be set differently than most people's. I can be friendly to hundreds of people daily, but only about 10 people in my life are what I consider "friends" in that only that many really know the deep, dark, dirty stuff.

11. Wild night out or romantic night in?

Can't I just take a nap?

12. Back in the day: Been caught sneaking out?

Nope. Weirdly, it would have been super-easy, but it never occurred to me.

13. Ever wanted something/someone so badly it hurt?

Yeah.

14. Who are/is your best friend(s)?

Those 10 or so people I mentioned above.

15. Ever wanted to disappear?

This feeling comes and goes a bit like the tide.

16. First attraction: Smile or eyes?

Voice. Shoulders. I guess smile is before eyes though.

17. Prefer intelligence or attraction?

Wait, isn't it possible to have both?? Because I cannot even think about being attracted to someone without a shred of intelligence. You know how there are (I guess) people who are attracted to power? Not me: bring in the brains!!

18. Last phone call you received?

I'm sure it was a telemarketer that I sent right to vm.

19. Last thing you drank?

I'm still working on my Diet Pepsi from lunch at Panera.

20. Before your current one, when was your last relationship?

I so SO hate this question!! I have dozens of relationships that begin/end almost daily/weekly/monthly.

21. Do you and your family get along?

Mostly. My family-of-origin gets along best from several hundred miles apart.

22. Would you say you have a "screwed up life"?

Nope. I've had a decidedly easy and blessed life with a few pretty awful events -- through little of my own doing, may I add.

23. Have you ever gotten kicked out somewhere? If yes, do tell.

I once was not allowed in a bar in Milwaukee because I was wearing Harley gear. (hint: Harley engines are built in Milwaukee) WTF, still 25+ years later.

24. Do you trust all your friends?

To greater or lesser extents. I'm gradually learning that my expectations are my problem, not my friends'.

25. Who knows the most about you?

Beast, these days.

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
The Getting to Know You Questions

1. What is your occupation right now? How long have you been there?

I've been a librarian for almost exactly 29 years (I started my first full time job in June of 1988). The job I'm at now is my second full-time gig, second job so to speak.

2. Favorite rock band. Ever.

The one I go back to most often is The Beat--usually The English Beat here. They just make me happy.

3. What are you listening to right now?

We're catching up on last night's SNL. I love Melissa McCarthy so much.

4. Last person you spoke to on the phone. What was it about?

Sparky called me this morning to wish me happy Mom's Day.

5. How old are you today? Or make up a question. This one bites.

I'm 53.5 + two days. Friday was my mother-in-law's birthday.

6. What is your favorite sport to watch on TV?

Football. This probably comes as a huge shock to everyone.

7. What is your favorite drink?

This is probably going to be an even bigger shock: diet Dr. Pepper.

8. Have you ever dyed your hair?

I did for about 10 years when it first started to get gray streaks. Once it seemed like it was less streaky, I stopped. I was still in my 40s, but at this point people describe me as "that gray-haired woman at the library"--and I'm not EVEN the oldest person there! I'm considering doing something like green or blue though.

9. Favorite food?

Carbs: sugar, bread, pasta. All the carbs!

10. What is the last movie you watched?

At the theater is was La-La Land. I really want to see Guardians of the Galaxy 2, but I'm not sure how that's going to happen unless I go alone. Beast isn't doing well.

11. Favorite day of the year?

I love days like today: 65-70 degree temps, no humidity, sun. I also really enjoy [School] Project judging day. And Thanksgiving.

12. How do you vent anger?

I talk. It's not the best possible way. I've also been known to shout (ahem) and/or cry, but I do that less these days as, apparently, it scares the shit out of my coworkers and causes me to get bad performance reviews. Now that I have becoming emo-free* at work, I'm back to my usual levels on reviews.

13. What was your favorite toy as a child?

Depends on the age. My jumprope, jacks, toy cars, and various dolls are probably up there, as are the many many library books I read.

14. Living arrangements? (Of course your pets count. Geez!)

I live with Beast and Pintobean. One is a human male, one is a male guinea-pig.

15. What was the last thing that you cried about?

I got a little teary with the African kids that came and sang at our church last week. But see * for why I don't really cry as much as I used to.

16. Who is the friend you have had the longest?

I'm friends with someone who went to the same babysitter after school as I did in the 70s. She's a couple of years older than me, but that matter way more in 1972 than it does now!

17. What did you do last night?

Caught up on DVR'd TV shows and played games on the laptop. And watched a race, including a really fucking scary wreck. By rights, several of the drivers should have been permanently incapacitated. Sounds like they are all walking away, more or less.

18. What are you most afraid of?

Pain.

19. In how many areas of your country have you lived? What's your favorite?

I've lived in the midwest my entire life, either the far Western part or the middle/northern part. I like Colorado best.

20. What is your favorite flower? (Ugh. Quite the note to go out on. But hell, we steal the questions. I guess you get what you pay for.)

Home-grown heirloom roses. But I'm not fussy; just don't bring white lilies!

__________________
*i.e. heavily medicated with psych drugs

Saturday 9

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Romance? Maybe. Love? Never.

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

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

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

"Love Me Do"

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

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

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

Right.

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

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

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

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
The Cannon Fodder Questions

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

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

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

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

3. What are you listening to right now?

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

4. Are you a big fan of thunderstorms?

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

5. Do you believe in perfect?

Not in this world, nope.

6. Are you a jealous person?

Heh. No.

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

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

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

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

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

Yes.

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

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

11. Do you think men truly understand women?

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

12. How about women understanding men?

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

13. Did anybody ever call you handsome or beautiful?

Ha ha ha ha ha.

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

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

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

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

The Sassy Questions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

7. What is your biggest regret in life?

Not learning to fly a plane.

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

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

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

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

10. What will the epitaph on your headstone say?

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

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
The Heat of the Moment (1982)
Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) What's something you did or said "in the heat of the moment?"

All kinds of stupid stuff. I did a shot of 150-proof vodka on an empty stomach in college, back when I still weighed less than 125 lbs. I then chugged a full can of Coke (with sugar) to counteract the effects (because, college kids are SMART). About 2 hours later, I was pretty drunk, but the guy who dared me to do the shot originally decided to do one. Within half an hour he was in the dorm bathroom bringing up the last day's worth of food. I was fine, didn't even know he was sick till the next day.

2) Asia's founder and bass player, John Wetton, passed away in January. One of his bandmates remembered him as a reliable performer who made everyone around him look better. Do you enjoy being the center of attention? Or would you, like Mr. Wetton, prefer to play a supporting role?

I'm a supporting character.

3) Asia is a British band who played their first US concert at Clarkson University in Potsdam, New York. The nearest major city -- Ottawa, Canada -- is a 90-minute drive from Potsdam. When you were last in the car for an hour or more? Where were you going?

I took myself on a getaway weekend last month about two hours from here. I actually know someone in Potsdam; thus, I have zero interest in ever being in her vicinity.

4) The song refers to disco hot spots, which apparently, by 1982, no one wanted to go to anymore. Let's make that negative into a positive. Describe your perfect night out with friends. Where would you go?

I wouldn't go out. Or I'd go to one of their homes.

5) In 1982, the year this song was popular, someone laced bottles of Tylenol with cyanide. That's why we now have tamper-proof caps on many products. Have you used anything in a tamper-proof bottle yet today?

Nope. I was a freshman in college for this Tylenol thing. I remember signs up EVERYWHERE on campus about not taking Tylenol. I still have a moment when I open a new bottle. Today, though, I haven't opened anything at all.

6) In 1982, Time Magazine's Person of the Year wasn't a person at all, it was "the computer." What do you use your computer for most often?

Facebook, Twitter, this, email at home. Everything I do at work is online, so....

7) 1982 also saw the premiere of The Weather Channel. Where do you learn the day's weather forecast? (Watching the local news on TV, checking your phone, looking out the window ...)

Looking out the window and/or checking the phone/computer.

8) In 1982, Arnold Schwarzenegger's movie, Conan the Barbarian, was a hit in theaters. When you settle down to watch a movie, is it usually a fantasy, like Conan? Or do you prefer another genre (action, comedy, adventure, romance, drama, classic ...)

I prefer comedy, but not stupidity.

9) Random question: What is something you try to avoid?

Work. Pain. Allergens. Ignorance.

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
The Disappearing Questions

1. Last movie you saw in a theater?

We saw "La La Land" last weekend. We were underwhelmed, to say the least. No clue why it's getting accolades--except that it's a movie about how wonderful Hollywood is. But it's not that good.

2. What book are you reading?

Blotto Twinks And The Riddle Of The Sphinx, by Simon Brett; Where the Shadows Lie, by Michael Ridpath; The Oxford Book of English Detective Stories, (ed. by Patricia Craig); Secondhand Time: The Last of the Soviets, by Svetlana Alexievich.

3. Favorite board game?

Trivial Pursuit. Or Life.

4. Favorite magazine?

Ms.

5. Favorite smells?

Pine. "Clean." Vanilla.

6. Favorite sounds?

Giggling. Hymns. Wind.

7. Worst feeling in the world?

Pain. Pain in those I love is actually THE worst.

8. What is the first thing you think of when you wake up?

It's a toss-up between "Can I snooze?", "What am I wearing today?" and "What stupid shit did SCROTUS to overnight?"

9. Favorite fast food place?

KFC, Arby's. and Taco Bell. Our TB has been closed since before Halloween. Just reopened at the end of last week. I can't WAIT to drive-thru this week!!).

10. Future child’s name?

There are no children in my future, except grandchildren. And I don't get to name those.

11. Finish this statement. “If I had lot of money I’d….?

"...spend more and still complain about being poor."

12. Do you sleep with a stuffed animal?

I do. Elsie my library cat.

13. Storms – cool or scary?

It's a matter of scale, is it not? I don't mind some thunder-bangers, but I'm not a fan of tornado weather.

14. Favorite drink?

Diet Dr. Pepper. Mixed-drink? Stoli & tonic with a lime twist.

15. Finish this statement, “If I had the time I would….”?

"....travel much more often!"

16. Do you eat the stems on broccoli?

Yes. Well, more on cooked broccoli than raw, I guess.

17. If you could dye your hair any color, what would be your choice?

I'd like a nice electric blue, to be honest.

18. Name all the different cities/towns you’ve lived in?

Suburban Denver, suburban Milwaukee, and ex-urban Where-I-Live-Now.

19. Favorite sports to watch?

Football. Gymnastics.

20. One nice thing about the person who sent this to you?

I like Bud. He's funny, classy (usually, lol), smart, and interesting. And likes music.

21. What’s under your bed?

Dust, used Kleenex, electrical cords ... mostly dust.

22. Would you like to be born as yourself again?

Sure. Maybe I'd screw up less. Or differently. But I probably wouldn't have my memories to remind me of what worked.

23. Morning person, or night owl?

I prefer mornings overall.

24. Over easy, or sunny side up?

Over easy.

25. Favorite place to relax?

Up in the mountains in a meadow. Me and the sky and grass and sun.

26. Favorite pie?

Cherry? Banana-cream? Really, I just like pie.

27. Favorite ice cream flavor?

Birthday cake. Peppermint. Bubble gum. Or just plain vanilla with butterscotch topping.

28. Of all the people who play, how many of the posts do you usually read?

Depends how buried in other things I am. I'm unlikely to get very far today.

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
Some Guys Have All the Luck (1984)
Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) Do you consider yourself lucky?

Oh for sure! No doubt. I should be dead a few times over--the fact that I'm not is, if not luck, a miracle.

2) When did you last risk money in a game of chance (lottery, raffle ticket, slot machine, etc.)? How did you do?

I don't play the lottery. I don't play slots around here. When I'm in Vegas, I through some money away, but never more than $100 or so. I only do raffles to support the cause the raffle is raising money for.

3) There's a major football game this weekend. Will you be watching? Do you have any money riding on the outcome?

No money on it, but I'm really hoping Atlanta can whup those Pats. I'll be watching the ads.

4) The composer of this song, Jeff Fortgang, is an interesting guy who's had two disparate careers: first pop musician, then Yale-educated clinical psychologist. It's possible that many of the patients who see him for help with anxiety or depression have no idea that he wrote this song. What's something your coworkers (or, if you're not working, casual friends) would be surprised to know about you?

I've worked with several of the same people for over 21 years. I'm not real sure there's anything that would be surprising to them. At this point, perhaps the mere fact that I used to be skinny (and I was VERY skinny as a kid).

5) Similarly, fans are often surprised to learn that this week's featured artist, Rod Stewart, is a history buff who loves reading about WWII. Is there a period of time or historic event that has captured your interest?

I have read an awful lot (pun intended) about the Holocaust, both the 'mechanics' of it and the human cost of it.
I've also read a lot of stuff about 'the historical Jesus' and the very early years of people believing he was ... something.

6) Rod met his current wife as the result of a dare. Penny Lancaster, then in her 20s, spotted the decades-older celebrity in a bar and only approached him because her friends bet her she didn't have the guts to talk to him. Are you, like Penny, vulnerable to peer pressure? Can your friends talk you into doing things you might not otherwise do?

I'm vulnerable to dares like this, though less-so than when I was young. However, I'm also really stubborn and if I don't want to do something I can be a total "party pooper." If it doesn't fit in my ethos (or if I just don't wanna for whatever reason, tbh), I'm not going to be dared into it!

7) Rod vividly recalls being 11 years old and going to see Little Richard perform in a film comedy called The Girl Can't Help It. When you were a kid, did you enjoy going to the movies? What do you recall seeing?

We didn't go to movies too often. I can only think of about 5 that I saw: "Tora, Tora, Tora!" (I thought it was a bullfighting movie--uh, no), "Paint Your Wagon", "The Apple Dumpling Gang", "Herbie the Love Bug", "The Lady and the Tramp".... There may have been more, but I sure doubt it.

8) The lyrics tell of when Rod's car overheats and he calls a friend, who doesn't come through. Tell us about a time recently when you were there and helped a buddy out.

Uhm. I do this often enough that it's not really memorable. Sorry. I don't keep score on this. The only thing I can think of is that a coworker nearly passed out at lunch Thursday, and a couple of us sat her down and fussed over her till she felt ok--and extracted a promise to get to the doctor ASAP.

9) The lyrics mention that "some guys do nothing but complain." Who do you know who is like that? Do you have a friend, relative or coworker who just always seems to find fault?

OMG. One of my former coworkers was the WORST! Just awful. I feel kind of bad because we have been told that since retiring, she has developed serious dementia, so now we're all wondering if the earlier behavior was a cover. It was, however, a nightmare to deal with day to day.

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
The Cool Guy Questions

1.) When was the first time you ever swore or said something profane?

I was probably 10 or so. I can't remember precisely, though I know it wasn't at home. I'm sure it was showing off for someone at school.

2.) Have you ever had unrequited feelings for someone? Have you ever been friendzoned?

Well of course. And yes. (and in most cases thank God)

3.) What's a false assumption a lot of people have about you?

That I'm quiet. Hah. So MUCH hah!

4.) Have you ever questioned your sexuality?

Not exactly, no.

5.) If you could bring one person back from the dead, who would it be and why?

Nope. Next....

6.) What did you do on December 12th last year?

I have no idea for sure. Nothing on Facebook or the calendar, so I'm going with "work, meeting chauffeur."

7.) When was the last time you truthfully told someone you hated them?

I don't think I have said that since I was very young. I don't really mean it when I say it, and I only say those words to people I love. ... Yes, I'm weird.

8.) What is your opinion on this song? What about this song?

I can't open the first one, but I generally like Linkin Park.

9.) In less than four sentences, describe the entire plot of the last book you read.

Scottish detective goes to London as an "expert" in serial killers. He has no idea what he's doing really, but ends up solving the case, bedding a comely woman, and breaking up his daughter's budding romance with a crook. Oh and the killer is nuts. Good enough?

10.) Describe the appearance of the most untrustworthy person you can think of (they can be a person you've met or a made up person). Are they male or female or neither? What about their appearance makes them untrustworthy?

Probably nothing about their appearance makes them untrustworthy because they probably look like a perfectly normal person. They are the most scary people out there.

11.) What is the most cringe-worthy thing you've ever seen?

The last week in politics.

12.) What is your biggest regret?

Not one of my big things. It doesn't do any good to regret except to swear not to do it again.

13.) Do you have any cousins? When was the last time you saw them?

I have two on my mom's side and four(?) on my dad's. I haven't seen them in over 30 years.

14.) Describe the worst birthday you've ever had.

Well this last one wasn't great: I worked, came home to an empty house. No card no gift no call.

15.) When was the last time someone provoked you to the point of violence?

I don't hit people, except I suppose in self-defense. And I haven't been violently angry in a physical sense in awhile.

16.) OH NOES!!!! Someone has gotten you to drink a truth potion and now you have to truthfully answer every question you are asked!!! What's the worst possible question someone could ask you?

Like, no. Just no.

17.) Describe, in detail, your first serious relationship. Describe how it ended.

We were in high school, a year apart. I was good friends with his brother. They didn't get along well at all. I realized early on that I wasn't as into him as he was into me. I broke up with him. Twice. Because, yes, we got back together briefly. Then he got angry and started trying to piss me off by attempting to date my friends. smh High school is so much fun.

18.) Introduce your best friend. Tell the story of how you met.

I think it's safe to say in every case it was happenstance.

19.) To the introduced friend, has our interviewee lied in any of these questions? Are you surprised by any of these answers?

I don't lie in my answers to memes. If I feel I might need to do so, I skip the question or otherwise avoid answering. ;-)

20.) To finish up, what is your biggest irrational fear and how did you get it?

I don't like big crowds. I don't think this is irrational at all, honestly, but it does keep me from doing some things, like attending concerts and going to rallies.