Saturday 9 x 3

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

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

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

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

Being in the mountains far away from adulthood and winter.

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

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

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

Humor, hard work / attention to detail, kindness.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

****************

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Nope. I had leftover KFC chicken and biscuits.

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

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

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

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

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

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

****************

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

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

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

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

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

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

Medium to medium-rare.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Intelligence.

Friday 5

(Link in meme-roll)
You, Too

1. What are you too short to do?

   Play professional tall-people sports (volleyball, basketball, etc.). I'm pretty tall for a girl, but not tall enough to make it pay. lol

2. What are you too smart to do?

   Believe my own bullshit.

3. What are you too fearful to do?

   Run away.

4. What are you too lazy to do?

   Empty all the storage areas of the house and sort and get rid of a bunch of it.

5. What are you too young to do?

   Retire.

Sunday Stealing

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

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

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

77. Is it easier to forgive or forget?

Much easier to forget. SOOOOOoooo much easier!

78. First mobile phone?

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

79. Strangest dream?

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

80. Best dream?

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

81. Who is the smartest person you know?

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

82. Who is the prettiest person on you know?

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

83. Do you miss anyone right now?

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

84. Who do you love? Why?

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

85. Do you like sharing?

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

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

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

87. Is there a reason behind everything that happens?

Sure. Or at the very least a teachable moment.

88. Favorite genre of music?

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

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

"Unfinished."

90. Describe your life in 5 words.

"I don't have a clue."

91. Craziest thing you’ve ever done?

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

92. First three songs in your favorite playlist?

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

93. Are you more creative or logical?

I'm more logical most of the time.

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

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

95. What are you most proud of?

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

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

Joy.

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

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

98. How do you usually start a conversation?

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

I don't understand a single word

(Courtesy of Die Gerb)

• Would you rather trade some intelligence for looks or looks for intelligence?

  I'd rather be intelligent. Looks fade, and to a point intelligence does too, over time. But you CAN fix lack of intelligence, while lost looks are just gone. Better not to depend on them.

• Have you ever tie-dyed your own clothes?

  I have! I've tie-dyed Sparky's clothes. I think Beast even has tie-dyed stuff buried somewhere. I actually like tie-dye, within reason. It reminds me of BIL and has lots of other pleasant associations. But I do recognize that it is DEEPLY uncool at this point.

• How often do you buy new clothes?

  I have a big blowout shopping trip a couple of times a year, but I fill in odds & ends piecemeal semi-regularly. I really need to do some shopping; my winter clothes don't fit. Again.

• Do you buy from charity shops?

  Actually, I've been thinking about hitting up Goodwill (and equivalents) for some new-to-me sweatshirts and/or sweaters. I don't want to drop a ton of cash, but I'm really bored with what I've got, and see previous answer. I also got a set of luncheon dishes that I've always wanted at a resale shop. What a buy!And lots and lots and lots of S&Ps.

• Have you ever sold your services?

  Sure. Pretty much, if you have a job, you're selling yourself at some level. Of course, my services are legal to sell, so I'm not all that worried about letting everyone know.

• Have you ever raised money for charity?

  Not directly, but I've certainly given to charity, and I've participated in fundraising events.

• Have you ever wielded a sword?

  Only the wooden toy variety. Don't think I could actually pick up a metal sword and swing it at all.

what we have been makes us what we are

(From the Gerbster)

What type of music do you like?

"Good beat, easy to dance to" and something I would rate 70 or above if I were on American Bandstand. If you don't get the reference, it's because you're probably under 30 and not a fan of watching old AB eps.

Have you ever been skinnydipping?

Nope. When I was about 17, I attended my first funeral for a friend, Amy G. She was an athlete, a church pal, and a cool, nice person who made one very bad decision--to go swimming in a tarped pool at night, alone. The theory, one theory, at the time was that her heart gave out due to an issue she wasn't aware she had. Aside from not being able to swim, the experience--sneaking out, doing something randomly silly and potentially dangerous--soured me on silly-dangerous stuff like skinnydipping and playing chicken.

How many pillows do you sleep with?

I sleep with just one, but I have another to prop me up to read before I go to sleep. The downside of bifocals is I can't read lying down so easily.

What position do you often sleep in?

Usually my right side lately, in a modified fetal position. But I flip side to side a couple of times most nights.

What do you wear to bed?

Pajamas, or what I have on if it's relatively comfy: sweats, T-shirt, etc.

Could you ever go out with someone just 'cause they're rich?

I might were the world I live in totally different. That is, I'd 1) have to be single, 2) want to be going on dates, 3) be a completely different age/look than I am now, and 4) need a sugar daddy.

Have you ever contemplated suing someone?

Not me, personally. There's a definite trade-off in time, effort and sticktuitiveness, which has never balanced against whatever wrong has been done to me. However, my parents did participate in a class-action lawsuit back in the '60s when my sister nearly died, on her behalf. The plaintiffs won and the payout covered the down-payment on the house Ellen and Dean bought when they got married.

Do you believe in karma?

I don't think of it as quid pro quo but I definitely do think that you get back what you put out there in the world. If you're negative and paranoid, that's what you'll think the world is about. And if you're optimistic and kind, ditto.

Do you believe in revenge?

I believe that it is a delightful feeling to see someone bad "get theirs" but I wouldn't generally want to think I go out of my way to be vengeful.

Who is the most intelligent person you know?

I know lots of smart people. They aren't all necessarily "book-smart." My friend Annie and my niece Elizabeth are music-smart in a way I'm not able to be; that doesn't mean they didn't struggle with high-level math. I have several friends my age who have had very difficult lives in ways I can't imagine; they are smart about things I hope I never have to know. My nephew James is spatially smart: he can figure out how to take apart and fix anything mechanical; he's a complete idiot about people skills though. My sister Marie is very very smart about a lot of stuff, but her taste in men is horrible. A friend of mine, Lisa, is aMAZing with motivating people and pushing projects along, but she isn't at all academically-minded. Smartest? They're all smart. Most of them are smarter than me in some way, which is part of why I keep them around; theoretically, I might learn something!

What's the craziest thing you've ever done for someone?

If you think too hard about the whole childbirth and parenting process, you would never in a million years do it. The likelihood of pain and suffering on a scale unequaled by most anything else in life is terrifying--and I'm not just talking about physical pain here. The merest though of losing a child, of having to make end-of-life decisions about a child, of having to watch them injure and destroy themselves will (and should!) break the strongest heart. The craziest thing I've ever done is think I could get through parenthood without heartbreak. And we have an easy kid!!

Do you throw bread for the ducks?

Nope. I honestly never think of it, and I really do NOT want them in my yard...or geese. Geese are fucking evil.

Where do you like to go to on a first date?

Somewhere we can talk. So maybe not just a movie or theatrical event.

Blogthings Quintupled

Your Memories Are Accurate

You have a lot of memories swirling around your head - some good, some bad, some mixed. You aren't one to romanticize the past... or to minimize it. You see everything as it happened, and often those feelings are still raw. While the past can seem a bit too alive at times, you're good at compartmentalizing it. You put memories away when you are done with them. Because of your realistic take on the past, you make an awesome storyteller. You don't sugarcoat anything, and you have interesting perspective on events.

The Memory Test

This is kind of freakishly true, but I'm not sure how "interesting" my perspective is. It's just normal for me.

You Are Fresh

You have a cheery and optimistic outlook on life. You believe in solving problems... not complaining about them. You are a natural innovator, and ideas come to you in a flash. You are very inspired. You are not one to get stuck in a rut, and you are constantly looking at the world upside down. Sometimes literally! Your feet were made for: skipping anywhere you feel like it.

The Converse Test

My skipping days are pretty much over at this point, I fear. And I'm not always cheery, though I fake it well.

You Are Currant Jam

You are subtle and refined. You have a depth that others enjoy once they get to know you, but you're not one to go bragging about it. You are the kind of person who likes the finer things in life, but you don't just passively enjoy them. You've been known to spin out some fine creations of your own. You have strong values, and you're not one to compromise your core beliefs. You are who you are - take it or leave it. You love a good classic, and you keep tradition alive. In fact, you pride yourself on being quite classic too.

What Flavor Jam Are You?

OK then, I'm not quite sure what to make of this.

People Love Your Trustworthiness

You believe in doing what you say and saying how you feel. You shoot straight with people, for better or worse. People may not always like it when you say "no" or give them honest feedback. But in the end, they do appreciate it. Others come to you when they need the truth or a real favor. You take your role as a friend seriously, and you try not to let others down. You are always [usually] good for whatever you promise - whether it's keeping a secret or doing something difficult for a friend in need.

What Do People Love You For?

I do value honesty. I'm not always very tactful, either, so I need to do some work on that. I'm trying to learn to keep my mouth shut, but it's not by choice and it's not fun.

You Are Smart

You are a very intelligent person, but you don't necessarily see yourself that way. You tend to have a very clear head. You think about things carefully, even when you don't realize that you're doing it. You have a lot of gears churning in your head. You enjoy solving problems and coming up with new innovations. If you are patient enough, something will come to you - it always does. You see patterns and meaning where others see nothing. You are very observant and good at putting details together.

The Polka Dot Test

Ayup, all true.

Blogthings x2

Your Superpower is Intellect

You are one smart cookie, and you are constantly engaged with the world. You think through everything. You aren't afraid of hard problems or hard subjects. Whenever you can't figure something out, you're ready to hit the books ... or Wikipedia. You believe that being smart takes work, and you are willing to put the time in. You don't settle for pat answers. You are willing to challenge the status quo when the time is right. You like to prove everything for yourself.

What's Your Secret Superpower?

Otherwise known as being really annoying to a lot of people. This is definitely me.
And Very Unique is awfully annoying to me.

+ V + V + V + V + V + V + V + V + V + V + V +

You Should Go to London

You wouldn't necessarily consider yourself a normally fashionable type. Your sense of style is very unique. Whether you are more punk, rocker, casual, or posh, you tend to rock a style that is all your own. You pay attention to fashion, but you don't always follow it. You know what looks good on you, and you make your own rules. In fact, you're the type who's more likely to inspire a runway look than to have one inspire you!

Where Should You Go to Fashion Week?

Whatever. I'm going to London! Don't care about fashion a whit, but while you-all sit and watch emaciated people prance about, I'll be at the British Museum, or the Tate, or riding the tube, or...well, pretty much anywhere else.

Blogthings

You Are Word Smart

You have a way with words, and you seem to just phrase things beautifully and effortlessly [sometimes]. You can talk and write your way into practically anything. People are enchanted by the words you choose. You are probably a bit of a word nerd at heart. Word games and crossword puzzles delight you. You are the type of person who benefits from talking things out. You often say something before you truly think it.

What Kind of Smart Are You?

So. Yeah. I like words. I should get a neon sign on my forehead that says "Word Nerd" in fact.

Blogthings

Your Taste is Cerebral

You are constantly interested in expanding your mind. You are looking for things that make you think. You tend to prefer real stories and actual people to invented stories and thought up characters. You are concerned with what's true. You are a collector of facts and knowledge. You feel like there is not enough time in the day for all the learning that you want to do. Your interests are wide and varied. There are a lot of stereotypically boring subjects that you find fascinating.

What's Your Taste Profile?

I like fiction, but every other part of this is pretty accurate.

Blogthings

You Are Brilliant

You have light blue yin. This means you are cool-headed and extremely rational. At your best, you can remained detached from the world, desires, and emotions. No one can get under your skin. You have dark yellow yang. You can be very energetic and fired up about your own personal interests. You can often inspire yourself, and it's difficult to calm down once your mind starts firing.

The Yin Yang Test

Um, well, I'm not cool-headed; I am, at least, warm-headed. Rational? Not so much, either. So maybe the light-blue isn't quite right, but the yellow is pretty good.

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
Super Duper Love
If you're not familiar with today's song, you can hear it here. [oh how I adore Joss Stone]

1) The lyrics say, "I'm as proud as a girl can be." Tell us about something you're proud of.

I'm proud of dealing with depression and health issues, both in the past and currently. I may not be doing it all "right," but I'm doing my best.

2) This song is from her first CD, The Soul Sessions. She's told interviewers that the first CD she ever owned was by Aretha Franklin: Greatest Hits. So while we're talking firsts, do you remember your first CD (or tape or record)?

The very first record I ever bought was the 45 for "Seasons in the Sun" and the first full record was a compilation of rock songs, only one of which I ever heard anywhere else. Buzarre.

3) Last year, two men were convicted of plotting to kill Joss Stone. Even though she had (fortunately!) never even met the men, she still had to testify during their trial. Have you ever had to speak to a judge?

Yes, when I was very young, too. hah My mom worked in the county court, so I met the Judges (Rolis (sp?) and Gately) when I was under 10. Terrifying. Otherwise, the only time I've been in a courtroom was for jury duty (I was excused). I may have talked to a judge who wasn't at work. Anything is possible, no?
But who the hell plots to kill a singer??

4) Joss is frequently in the British press because of her friendship with Princes William and Harry. Who among your friends leads the most exciting life?

I don't really have too many exciting friends. I'm not exactly interested in drama. However, I do have a small group of friends in their early 20s and THAT is fun to watch. Also, my nieces and nephews who have small children are living eventful lives. Exciting? I don't know; more than me, for sure.

5) Because of dyslexia, Joss had trouble in school and dropped out when she was 16. What's the last grade you completed?

I have a Master's degree in Information and Library Science. yeehaw

6) She provided the voice of the villainness for the James Bond video game, Blood Stone. Do you have a Playstation or Xbox?

Sparky has an Xbox. We have the Wii here at home.

7) Sam is especially crazy this morning because she can't find her phone. What's the last thing you misplaced?

My peace of mind was pretty well shot Thursday night all night. I think I lost the jar of pickle relish I bought a couple of weeks ago; just replaced it tonight.

8) After composing this Saturday 9, Sam is off to Lowe's to pick up some heavy duty indoor/outdoor trash bags. Will you be in any stores this weekend?

Just got home from Meijer's for groceries. I think I'm done for the weekend.

9) Do you consider yourself more book smart, or street smart?

Definitely way more book smart, but I've got some street too.

Blogthings

You Are Smart

When it comes to book smarts versus street smarts, you've got them both, baby! You are well-rounded. You can geek out and study up like no one's business. But you also know when it's time to just dive in and start learning. It's likely that you started out as either a book smart or street smart type and learned the other to help get by in the world. You wear many hats, and you take a flexible approach to life. Very few people know what you are capable of.

Are You Book Smart or Street Smart?

I'm not even sure what I'm capable of, to be honest.

Blogthings

Your Intellectual Virtue is Knowledge

You love deep contemplation but not until you have all the facts and details. Unlike most people, you don't jump to conclusions. You look at every angle before you start thinking. You are open to changing your mind if new facts come up. You don't get stuck in an intellectual rut. You believe that learning is a process and a journey. Your knowledge is always evolving, and there is no end point.

What's Your Intellectual Virtue?

OK, yes, I am a bit of a conclusion-jumper. And I don't really contemplate. I'd LIKE to, but I bore myself when I try.

Blogthings

You Should Attend an Education Festival

You are a brainiac who likes to mull over everything. You are very reflective. You like to get inspired about improving the world in some way. You love to think differently. You are looking for the next big idea or insight. The more radical or outlandish, the better! You believe that you can learn from others... and you hope that others can learn a little from you.

What Type of Festival Should You Attend?

I'm not overly reflective, really. I think, but I don't really mull. I don't go for the radical or outlandish either.

Blogthings

You Are the Brain

When you were in high school, you applied yourself and studied hard. Getting good grades was always a snap for you. You were the student who could help anyone with homework or an essay, and you were always happy to. You were a genuinely nice person. You weren't the most naturally popular kid, but over time, others came to respect you. You treated [almost] everyone well. You were probably a bit more sensitive than most kids at your school. You took failures personally.

What's Your 80s High School Stereotype?

Well, shyeah! Could this be any more obvious?? No, it actually couldn't.

Blogthings

You Are a Brainiac

To others, you seem like a total rational, logical type. You don't talk much about your feelings. However, you have a whole creative side that others don't see. You are very original and independent in your thought. On Sundays, you like to kick back. You're the type to spend the day reading the whole paper and completing the crossword. Your ideal Sunday breakfast is a little creative and experimental. It's time to have fun!

The Sunday Breakfast Test

So yeah, this isn't me at all, really. I am a brainiac, but the description isn't very much like me, aside from the independence and perhaps seeming logical.

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
Hopelessly Devoted to You

Olivia Newton-John is a breast cancer survivor and October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Please spread the word about early detection.

1) This is a sad song about unrequited love. What's your favorite love song, and is it happy or sad?

My favorite pop love song is "The Sweetest Thing." I'll let you decide if you think it's happy or sad.

2) This song is from the Grease soundtrack. When that movie came out in 1978, the price of a postage stamp was just 15¢. When's the last time you visited the post office?

Within the last month. We have a mailbox to check, and I think it's my turn. Maybe I'll go do that, pick up Beast's latest Rx, and do a quick grocery shop while I'm in town.

3) Not many people know that Olivia's maternal grandfather, Max Born, won the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1954. Share something about yourself that we might not have known before this morning.

One of my nieces has a doctorate in astrophysics. She currently works for the Spanish government doing something with social statistics. I think. Anyway, it does not involve stars.

4) Olivia's father was an officer in MI5, the UK's secret service. Sam's most recent run-in with the authorities had less intrigue or glamor, as it included a policeman pointing out the stop sign she'd somehow missed. Tell us about your most recent encounter with law enforcement.

Well, there were cops in my house last Saturday night. One of them gave me a hug as she left.

5) Olivia is part owner of an exclusive, luxury retreat called Gaia. If you had a day of free access to a heated pool, golf course, tennis court, gym, and day spa, but could only use one, which one would you choose?

Day spa. No contest.

6) Are you flirtatious?

Not particularly, or at least not on purpose. It always amuses (and embarrasses) me when I'm on the receiving end of this sort of thing.

7) Do you more often wear silver, gold, or platinum?

Silver. Again, it's not even a close call.

8) When you're on the phone, do you usually make the first move toward ending the call? Or do you find it hard to say goodbye?

Depends. I'm not a fan of making random calls, but if it's someone I enjoy talking to, I have a hard time hanging up.

9) Would you rather be smarter, richer, or more attractive than you are right now?

Smarter, but not 'book-smart'--smarter about myself and knowing what I'm here for, what to do next (in the Big Picture) sense.

Saturday 9 18

(Link in meme-roll)
My Generation

1. What do you think is the most unique thing about your generation?

Wow, this question is a doozy! First of all, I have trouble with this because I was born right on the cusp of End-of-Baby-Boom and Whatever-Came-Next. Three siblings are/were squarely baby-boomers, and my older sister is pre-boom. If "My Generation" means people born in the 60s, then I'd say we're a fuckin' mess: our kids are still living at home, we're going to be paying into Social Security with probably no chance of seeing a payback, and we may be the first generation in awhile to live shorter lives than our parents. Yippee.

2. Do you speak out as often as you should?

Up until recently, I would say I speak up MORE often than I should, but I'm getting better, though still pretty mouthy.

3. How often are you tough and unreasonable?

I think there are those who would say that I'm not enough tough, but plenty unreasonable.

4. Do you believe that sometimes you learn more from a failure than a success?

Hell yeah! Not only, and not necessarily, my own.

5. Do you feel that you always have to win?

I really like to win. I'm not always a very good loser. But I know that I don't always win, so I'm better than when I was younger.

6. Do you think tradition matters?

Yes. But tradition mired in the past is useless if not translated and integrated into the present.

7. Do you tend to root for the underdog?

Almost always. Unless they are playing against the Packers. ;-)

8. Have you ever felt that you want to exceed your parents’ successes?

From a material standpoint, I have. From a 'life' standpoint, I'm not sure that's possible.

9. Of all the cartoon characters that you know of, which is most like you?

The teachers in the Peanuts cartoons (on TV)? Pogo? Wile E. Coyote?

I'm So Excited

10. What was the last event or situation that got you really excited?

I'm pretty excited about the fact that my boss is leaving, in less than a week now!!

11. How old were you when you started working and what was your first job?

From before I can remember, it was my job to clean my room up every Saturday morning while Mom did the rest of the house. Of course, that wasn't a paid job! I started babysitting at about age 11 or 12. My first applied-for job was working as a shelver at the local library at age 16. I was working before I had a driver's license, even.

12. Tell us about your grandparents.

All of my grandparents were born in or before the 1880s. My dad's parents were homesteaders (you know: 5 acres to prove in 5 years) in western Colorado when my dad was born. My mom's dad worked for the railroad in southwestern Colorado after immigrating from Canada; he left home in his early teens and married my grandmother, who was a schoolteacher in Montana, when she was in her early 20s and he was in his 40s. I never met him; he died in 1941, weeks after my parents were married. The other three surviving grandparents were all gone before I turned 12; I really don't remember much about any of them except that mom's mom had cold hands and beautiful long white hair, and dad's mom was deaf as a post.

13. Do you procrastinate or are you usually on top of situations?

I'm a great procrastinator, unless it's something I enjoy doing.

14. What would others say about you?

Ask them. (Let me know what they say?)

15. Do you believe in life on other planets?

I believe it's possible, even likely, but I'm not sure we'd recognize it as such necessarily, nor is it likely to look anything like us.

16. When was the last time that you were called too thin?

My parents were actually concerned about my weight as a kid, but while I was pregnant, that all ended. When I was in my 20s, one of my coworkers' husband called me "Skinny" whenever he saw me...creepy old fart.

17. Do you work out? Have you ever joined a gym and quit almost immediately?

I don't work out. I should, but I'm lazy. And I have indeed joined gyms and lasted just a few weeks or months.

18. Do you feel that you utilize all your intelligence in every situation?

Nope. That sounds very exhausting. I use a LOT of my intelligence in a LOT of situations, though. And then there's the majority of my time, when I'm on autopilot.

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
Look Out Here Comes Tomorrow (RIP Davy Jones)

1. How much do you worry about your future?

I don't see any point in worrying about the big stuff. I do worry about minor things though, which is crazy. The big things are either completely out of my control, or I deal with them so I don't NEED to worry.

2. Do you believe that anyone could be perfect?

Nope. As we said in the 70s, Pobody's Nerfect.

3. Regarding your future, what is the best thing you could hope for?

Live fully, enjoy the parts of life that are to be enjoyed, be productive, laugh and love often, die quickly.

4. What's the greatest extent you've gone to help a friend in need?

Y'know what? I don't really think of it as what did I do; it's about what they needed, and what the right thing to do was. Is.

5. What did you do lately that was really brave?

Argued with doctors about releasing Beast from the hospital. Or just generally having

6. Tell us one thing you wish you hadn't let yourself do.

Eat all those Girl Scout cookies....

7. Who is the wisest person you know?

I know way too many people with wisdom. I just hope I'm wise enough to listen to them.

8. What's the most tasteless joke you've ever heard?

My brother was a cop, a paramedic, and a firefighter. I've heard some pretty randomly skanky jokes. I try not to remember them.

9. What does your answering machine / voice mail message say?

The usual: You've reached [Cat.]'s voicemail. I can't answer the phone right now. Please leave a message and I'll get back to you as soon as I can.

Birthday Wisdom

Your Birthday's Wisdom is Rebirth

You believe the beauty of life is that anyone can be reborn at anytime. The world is full of fresh starts, and you take one whenever it comes your way. You are constantly evolving and changing. And to you, that's a beautiful thing. You aren't the person you used to be... you're so much better now!

What's Your Birthday's Wisdom?

I'm ok with this, thought some change isn't all that great.