Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
The Very Forceful Questions

1. Do you have/have you had any pets?

When I was a wee tot, we had a parakeet named Peppy who lived in a cage in the dining room. I barely remember Peppy, so I was probably under 6 when he died. When I was 10, I started coming home to an empty house after school, so my parents got a dog to "protect" me. Tippi was also fabulously patient--till he got old--and willing to dress up in my clothes and bark like a crazy rabid dog whenever the doorbell rang. We had to have him put down when I was about 24 because he had started biting people when they touched him. My 2-year-old nephew was spending a lot of time with Grandpa & Grandma and there were little kids next door--plus the little doggy had horrible arthritis and was blind as well. That was a rough day. We had finches for awhile after we got married, which was fun but when they had babies, and then more babies, it got massively out of control. Then when we bought our first house, Beast and I hit the pound and picked out our little angel-dog Shady. OK, she was a Shepherd-lab-something mutt, but she really was the most adorable, loving, kind-hearted, joyful dog I've ever known. Also a little fraidy-cat, but that's ok. It was about 5 years later when I finally had to face reality: I'm allergic to dogs. By then, we also had a child who loved that puppy, so she stayed and I sniffled. We went on vacation when she was about 14 and she stayed with a friend/coworker--where she died! OMG this is not a good plan, people. Coworker couldn't reach us for like 10 hours, when Sparky found out he imploded, and it sorta killed the remaining vacation. OK, so no more dogs because Mom sux, but Sparky got two guinea pigs that Christmas and we've had succeeding guineas since then. We're on our last one now. Poor little guy--I don't see him lasting much past winter. Then we're done. No more pets. Except pet rocks. Although, honestly, if I end up alone in the future, I will be getting a little rat-dog of some kind.

2. Do you play video games? If so, do you have a favorite video game series?

Not really. I used to love playing The Sims and Sim Civilization, but I can't operate the controllers on video games to make those games work if I'm not using a computer keyboard. And the new PC versions don't work right either.

3. Any unpopular opinions on anything?

Heh. Well, considering I got yelled at Monday by a patron with a program beef (I have nothing to do with programming), called an ambulance 3 hours after that for a patron who was struggling to breathe, and then had to deal with full-bore Crazy in all its various incarnations for the rest of the week, topped off by a call to the police today to help us eject one of the Crazies (who turned it into a totally horse-and-pony show by refusing to cooperate and having to be practically dragged out)...I don't really care if I'm popular in my opinions. I'm just trying to survive each day with my dignity and sanity intact.
But I do hate Trump if that counts.

4. Do you have a favorite gem? If yes, has anyone ever bought you jewelry with that gem?

I have several sapphires, which I like: two rings, some earrings, and at least one necklace.

5. Favorite story genres?

I really like mysteries and good thrillers that aren't all car chases and technology.

6. What was once a secret that you can now share? (The original question was "What kind of fruit do you hate" which is type of question that I think "who cares?" so I just change them.)

I'm married to a wonderful man who is struggling with alcoholism.

7. Do you like reading?

Uh, yeah, a bit ...?

8. What time is it for you now[;] what are you usually doing at this time of the day?

It's currently 6:10 p.m. During the week I'm just leaving work. Weekends are variable. Right now we're watching our DVR'd Packer game. I expect the actual life game is pretty close to over, so I've turned off Facebook.

9. What character on TV or in film is most similar to you? You can go with looks or personality. Or you can make a quip and go to the next question.

Sandra Bullock's character in "Miss Congeniality." (I wish)

He's a featured player!

10. What's something weird you wanna do? It cannot be weirder than Mr. Watermelonhead.

Is taking classes at a seminary weird? Kinda? If not, then going on an archaeological dig?

11. Have you ever accomplished a New Years Resolution?

Nope. I haven't made one in decades, either.

12. Is there any music artist you look up to?

I have a great deal of respect for Bruce Springsteen, and not just for his career either. I think he's a genuinely good person with some personal demons.

13. Are you allergic to anything? If yes, what?

As mentioned above, dogs. Also, and worse, cats. Pine trees, some grasses, corn pollen. Nothing too tragic. Unless I live in the middle of the world's Corn Belt with 76 cats. [I don't have cats at least, but I do live in the middle of a lot of cornfields.]

14. When was the last time you took a swim? Who else was with you?

I don't swim. I do make sure that if I'm near deep water, there is someone nearby who CAN swim.

15. Would you rather have the ability to sleep for as long as you want, or have the ability to never have to sleep?

Nope, I'll be hibernating all winter, given even the slightest encouragement. I love sleep!

The Queen's Meme

(Link in meme-roll)
The Hodgepodge Meme

1. Do you have a favorite chair in your home? Why is it your favorite place to sit?

I love my little corner of the couch. I can do pretty much anything from here, including parts of my job. Plus, I can sleep here.

2. You've been given a billboard space on the highway of life. What is the ONE word you'd place on the billboard to describe your life right now?

"Unplannable"

3. Do you own a string of pearls?

Not real pearls. I'm not a big fan of pearls, really.

4. Whose initials would you carve on a tree?

No one's! Leave the damn trees in peace, people!

5. Could you go without your cellphone for an entire day?

Sure. I've done it on days I've left it either at home or in the car when I get to work.

6. If you could pre-install an app on every human being born today, what would that built-in app be?

Kindness.

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
Shannon's Moments Meme, Part One
I kinda just did this a couple of weeks ago, but it's enough different that I'll do it again.

1. Do you like blue cheese?

Not alone, but with some other goodies (steak, etc.) it's dynamite!

2. Have you ever smoked cigarettes? If yes, how did you quit?

No, thank God I never started. I'm virtually certain I'd never have been able to stop.

3. Do you own a gun? How are your feelings about gun control/2nd Amendment rights?

I do not, because I know myself well enough to know exactly how dangerous that would be. I am not anti-gun, however. If you like hunting, or collecting armament, fine. I just do not see any reason for ANYone to own a functional auto or semi-auto. There's only one use for them, and it ain't dead-heading peonies!

4. What is your favorite flavor of water or liquor flavors?

I like my water plain old water-flavored, preferably not overly chlorinated. I like my liquor fairly flavorless generally too. Plain Stoli, maybe a lime twist, is sufficient. I really can't do extremely sweet drinks at all anymore...shudder.

5. Do you get nervous before a doctor visit? Why?

Nope. Serves no purpose except to make my blood pressure rise, which isn't helpful. I figure, by the time I've committed to seeing the doctor, I've already decided I need help solving whatever problem I've got at the moment.
This is all despite the fact that I actively hated going to the doctor as a child since it seemed to always involve an injection for something or other. And the doc was super-creepy. If I ever get that vibe off anyone now, I'm outta there.

6. How do you like your hot dogs?

Cold straight out of the package. If we're talking about food-truck dogs then no relish, heavy mustard, and some onions. I'll get ketchup too, unless I'm in Chi-town where it's pretty much illegal.

7. Although it’s been asked a lot, tell us about a favorite movie that you haven’t shared before.

I can't think of a movie that I haven't talked about. I don't really see that many movies, not compared to most people, so I go to the very few I love regularly to answer this. I've always liked "Fiddler on the Roof" mostly for the cinematography, and after actually seeing Siberia, it's even more amazing. Ditto for "Dr. Zhivago" a movie in which I could happily turn off the volume and watch in silence.

8. What do you prefer to drink in the morning?

Diet caffeinated pop. More caffeine = more better.

9. In a dating situation, have you ever misrepresented yourself to seem cooler or hipper? (Yes we know for most of you it was long ago…)

Of course. I never in my life felt hip or cool, but who admits that to someone they're interested in impressing??

10. What’s your favorite piece of jewelry? Why?

I have a necklace my mom's best childhood friend gave me that she got while she was a missionary in Persia (Iran) in the 50s. It is mother-of-pearl, painted with two different scenes--one on either side--and too large and an odd-length for most outfits. I love it to death though. I love it for its own sake, but also because it reminds me of Mom and N. and how weirdly the world changes--N. gave it to me in about 1979, just before the Iranian Hostage Crisis commenced; I loved wearing it as a stealth thing that people who were yelling about killing all Iranians wouldn't/didn't get.

11. Favorite hobby? Tell us about it so we understand it.

I read. A lot. Because my life is terminally boring--and that's fine--and I like to crawl inside other people's heads and see what motivates them. One of the books I'm reading right now, The Home for Wayward Clocks is reminding me that this is one of the best parts of reading. All the everyday people doing everyday things that seem so outlandish to me, but not to them.

12. Do you have A.D.D., or have you suspected it?

Nope. Except in the sense that I am rarely ever doing just one thing anymore. It's blogging-and-TV-watching, music-and-cataloging, conversation-and-cooking.

13. What’s a thing you dislike or would change about yourself?

I need to do better about thinking further ahead than the next half hour on the Really Big Stuff in Life. I tend to be a little hedonistic and don't properly plan things out. Which, if you knew what my calendar looked like, would surprise you, I'm sure.

14. Middle name? Like it or not?

I have one. I like it. It's short, succinct, and uncommon, though hardly rare. Y'all have definitely heard of it. There's a very famous doctor that has made it more accessible. I've always been glad, secretly, that it wasn't "the" middle name that all the (popular) girls in high school seemed to have.

15. Name three random thoughts you might have on this week:

I might never catch up on cataloging at work, but I have nearly run myself out of project-work. Beast has 7 days, which is worth celebrating. It's beautiful outside today, tempting me to go out and sit on the porch which will undoubtedly lead to me feeling absolutely shitty later. (see above re thinking ahead)

16. Name 3 drinks you regularly drink. Tell us a bit about them.

I regularly drink dark diet soda, water, and pretty much nothing else. Occasional glasses of white soda when I'm feeling like I need to de-caffeinate closer to bedtime.

17. Current worry:

I'm weaning myself away from incessant worrying. I am, however, starting to think about what I'm wearing for this upcoming wedding, and what else I should be taking for the trip. Also on my mind is what Sparky needs to take, WHICH IS RIDICULOUS because HE IS 23 and I don't need to pack for him anymore!!! And this is why I have to stop worrying about stuff; it's almost always just about this stupid.

18. Current annoyance:

I can't think of anything that annoying right now. Overall, I would say that there is a large rash of idiotic behavior on the Big World Stage right now, and I'm so very sick of idiots.

19. Favorite place to be in the summer? Give us a wee bit more than “the beach”.

Well, in my case it's not the beach; it's the mountains. Any mountaintop, a ways away from "civilization" with wildflowers, sunshine, and rarefied air. I'm not fussy. I haven't had anything of this sort in a very long time and I'm craving it.

20. How do you usually ring in the new year? If forced (how we’d do that without Judd coming to your house, if you even know who he was) to do something new, what would it be?

I don't do anything very exciting. We stay home. Often we fondue. I'm usually in bed either well before midnight or not too long after. I have no interest whatever in hanging out or driving near drunks, so yeah.

21. What have you done this summer that’s special? Pictures please.

I haven't done anything this summer to speak of. Our vacations this year are April and September, so the summer has been 13 weeks of work. That's fine. But I don't got pix.

22. Have you ever walked into a room with just shoes on?

Well, if shower shoes count as shoes, then yes.

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
Feisty Twenty-five

Do you like to see it snowing outside?

If I don't have to go outside and drive anywhere for a few days, I do like to watch snow falling. If there will be driving, I just start worrying about that.

Do you tell your family you love them enough?

I tell them whenever I see them. I mean Beast and Sparky. My family of origin doesn't do the "love" thing unless things are in dire straits. Beast's family is better at that, but we don't see them often anymore.

Do you like getting jewelry or do you not wear any?

I like earrings; I wear them pretty much every day, and I have TONS. I'm not really into expensive jewelry, but I have a couple of pricey rings and necklaces. I don't wear a lot of necklaces--I tend to forget to grab one.

Do you watch a lot of NFL football?

I do. It's on right now, in fact, as I write this, gearing up for the Pats/Broncos game.

Have you ever used the word ‘lame’?

I don't use it much. The way people feel about the word 'retarded' is kind of the way I feel about 'lame.' Maybe I've just known more people with physical disabilities than mental disabilities? I don't know, but 'lame' feels rude.

Are you/Were you in a band? If so, what was your band name?

I was in marching band. There's just not a great big push for flute players in rock bands, Jethro Tull and Chicago excluded.

When is the last time you went to the doctor?

Nag nag nag! Jeez! I'm going Wednesday, OK? Jeez. lol

Do you own any shirts with a peace symbol on it?

Hmm. I don't think so, not anymore. I certainly used to! Might have to remedy that one of these days.

Would you ever go to Japan?

If you paid for it, and I could fly first class, then I would.

What was the last thing you went to Walmart for?

I don't remember. Maybe pillows, and then a random-grab lunch from the deli and pop cooler.

Ever gotten in a car accident?

Uh, yeah. Probably 5 or 6. Thankfully, nothing very exciting or dangerous.

Have you ever been in a choir?

Yes.

Do you like the color of your eyes? If not, what color would you want them?

I have hazel eyes. I've always wished they were more green, or at least green more often. But I'm not fussed enough to spend time on it these days.

When was the last time you went ice skating?

I believe I was approximately 13. That makes it pretty close to 4 decades.

Do you like to brush your teeth?

Do I like to? Well, I don't hate it...it doesn't hurt or anything, and it's necessary. This is a little like asking whether I like brushing my hair....

Have you ever had a surgery?

Yup. Couple of times. Anesthesia is weird.

Do you look older or younger than you actually are?

I think I look pretty much my actual age. I might not act like it, though. ;-)

When is the next time you’ll be up on stage?

I think I'm liturgist next weekend. Does that count?

Where did you spend your last birthday?

I think I worked. If not I was right here on the couch probably doing something like this, or reading.

What is the last show that you watched a full episode of?

We watched Property Brothers all afternoon and evening yesterday. No breaks. It was ... weird and not what I would have preferred but I didn't have the remote.

Do you know anyone who lives in Utah?

Wow. Random. I don't think so? My sister lives about 90 miles from Utah for half of the year, but I don't think anyone else I know is there. If so, they're keeping shtum.

Is there anything you need to work on doing soon?

There are plenty of things I need to deal with, including laundry, serious house-cleaning, and figuring out vacations. And losing weight. Always.

Do your feelings get hurt easily?

It depends. Sometimes, with some people, I seem primed to take things all wrong. Most of the time, shit runs right off me.

Do you, or do you know someone who has taken karate lessons?

Sparky took tai kwon do for a year or so when he was a kid. He wasn't great, but he liked watching himself in the mirrors. ;-)

Were you ever a boy or girl scout?

I was a Girl Scout for a couple of years in grade school. It was fun, but I never did any of the camping or whatever. And I sucked at selling cookies.

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
I Want To Be Famous Meme

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

God.

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

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

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

The ability to keep my opinions to myself!

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

Nope, not interested.

11. What does friendship mean to you?

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

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

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

13. When did you last laugh?

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

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

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

15. Seen anything weird lately?

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

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
Careless Whisper (1984)
Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) You can't miss George Michael's gold hoops in the photo above or in the "Careless Whisper" video. Are you wearing any jewelry right now?

I have Fimo clay earrings in. I just took off a couple of necklaces. Oh and my wedding, engagement and anniversary rings, of course.

2) Though the label says this hit is performed by "Wham! featuring George Michael," George Michael is the only member of the pop duo who appears in the video. Do you remember the name of the other guy who was in Wham?

Andrew Ridgeley. Who is still freakin' gorgeous, even almost hairless on top!

3) Much of the video was filmed on Watson Island, a man-made island near South Beach. Have you ever been to Miami?

Nope. I have zero interest in Miami.

4) Born Georgios Panayiotou, George Michael is of Greek descent, the son of the Greek restauranteur in East London. When you think of Greek cuisine, what comes to mind?

Spanikopita, grape leaves, moussaka, ouzo, phyllo dough, gyros, feta cheese, dolmades....

5) Today he lives in a tony suburb called Highgate, and his neighbors are Kate Moss and Sting. Tell us about one of your neighbors.

One of our neighbors, Nancy, just moved out this week. We are getting new neighbors. I hope there are kids.

6) George Michael fans can purchase officially licensed merchandise from his website, including an iPhone cover with his photo and signature. Tell us about your cell phone. Is it Apple or Android? Is it a smartphone?

I have a 2.5-year-old Samsung that I adore. I rarely use it for calls, but I text/IM/PM, take pictures, Facebook, play games, make lists (shopping and otherwise), check weather, listen to music, read books....OMG. How did I live without it?!

7) George Michael sang Stevie Wonder's "You and I" for Prince William's wedding to Kate Middleton. What's your favorite love song?

I'm not a huge fan of love songs. I do like "Fuckin' Perfect" and "The Sweetest Thing."

8) In 2014, George had a health scare. He was rushed to the hospital for tests and released the next day. Have you ever ridden in an ambulance?

Nope. I suspect most of the time the whole ambulance ride is 'wasted' on the people who need it the most.

9) Known for hard partying in his youth, George is now in his 50s and says he's quite happy to spend his evenings eating takeout and watching DVDs. Are you doing any socializing this weekend?

I had a day-long women's retreat today, which was fun, and the weather was beautiful so being outside was delightful. Tomorrow is Confirmation Sunday, and then there's a party we're invited to for one of the kids afterwards. The first two weeks of May are crazy-busy for us this year.

Blogthings Kapow!

Your Heart is Heart Shaped

Your heart loves so much that it could not be any other shape but heart shaped. You make sure there is plenty of love in the world. You are constantly putting love in motion with your words and actions. If you love someone, you make sure it's known. You are the first to make someone feel appreciated or taken care of. You are naturally very nurturing. You love a lot of people in different ways, but there is always room for more love in your life.

What Shape is Your Heart?

Whatever. This started out so sappy I could hardly keep reading the result.

You Are A Blackberry Mojito

You have a strong personality, and you know what you want out of life. You can't be easily swayed. You always are charting your own path, and that sometimes makes you a loner... but it sometimes makes you a leader. You love a good challenge, and you are always looking to expand your horizons. For you, life is all about little discoveries. You are generous with your knowledge and time. You enjoy sharing your passions with friends, and people look to you for new inspiration and ideas.

What Mojito Are You?

Well, this is me-ish, I suppose.

You Are Lavender Chamomile

You are a bit of a romantic when it comes to all aspects of life. You like to stop and smell the flowers. You love the finer things in life, and you always appreciate a glorious scent or a beautifully decorated space. You get warm feelings from so much in this world, and you don't have an envious bone in your body. You are happy when others triumph. You are at peace with the life you live and don't feel like you need to compete with others. Your path is perfect... for you.

What's Your Spa Fragrance?

This is, truly, one of my favorite scents! I'm not so sure of the description, but it's not awful.

You Are a Round Diamond

You are a loyal and devoted person. Your family and friends mean the world to you, and you treat them as such. You put a lot of time and energy in relationships, romantic and otherwise. You can't imagine a world without the people you love. You are very dependable and caring. You take care of your own needs too, but you never make a big fuss about them. You are a peacemaker, and you believe in bringing people together. You think we all have a lot more in common than we might think.

What Shape Diamond Are You?

Right. Close enough.

Your Swimsuit Style is Sporty

You are the type who actually swims in your swimsuit, and you've got to make sure it's up for the job. You love summer more than most folks, and you make sure to get out there and do all your favorite thing. You have an action-packed season every year. You are an enthusiastic and optimistic person, which means you have plenty to do every summer. People love having you around. Even though summer is supposed to be your off time, you stay as busy as ever. But you keep a few minutes free for a dip in the pool!

What's Your Swimsuit Style?

ha ha ha ha
No.

You Are 76% 80s!

You're so 80s that you're practically still living in them. No need to leave time's greatest decade behind! You are all about having fun and enjoying your favorite things. And if you happen to be totally retro, well you're cool with that.

How 80s Are You?

Too true, I guess. It was a period of life that was good. To me.

You Are Belfast

You are bright, lively, and always down for doing something a little off the beaten path. You make your own fun and adventure. You are always up for going out and enjoying yourself. You love a good scene, especially one with good music. There is a more serious, contemplative side to you as well - you like to learn about the world, especially when it comes to things others know little about. You like to discover things for yourself, and you're all about applied knowledge. The best learning doesn't always come from books.

What UK City Are You?

Never, ever, have I considered visiting Belfast. Still not likely to visit, though.

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
Shop On The Corner Meme

What kind of job did your mom have when you were growing up?

I can't tell you how proud I am to see this question. To me it indicates that most people younger than me had moms that worked outside the home.
Ahem. My mom worked as a clerk in the county court from when I turned 3 or 4 until she retired while I was in college. She worked at the District Court office before I was born. So proud of her for working fulltime before women were "supposed" to.

Have you ever known anyone that’s been on TV, including you?

Well, technically I've been on TV, along with everyone in my high school band. And I think I went to school with someone who used to be on the Weather Channel sometimes, and with a local pol in another state. Otherwise, not that I know of. Oh, and a coworker has been on local morning TV in a mascot suit for a winter festival we have.

What was the most interesting animal you have seen in the wild?

What constitutes "in the wild"? We went to a safari park in Canada 15 years ago and saw lions and tigers and giraffes and monkeys who were free-ish to wander. We also watched their small herd of elephants walk to the pond for their daily bath which was exquisitely awesome to see. I have also seen moose completely wild and (I think) brown bears. And buffalo. And lots of rodents and small animals.

What holiday do you enjoy the most?

Thanksgiving.

What was the first video game you ever played?

Pong. In the 70s. Hey dudes: I am old.

What is the one thing you own, that if it got lost, you would be bummed?

I'd be heartbroken if I lost any of my family's Bibles.

Do you have a favorite breakfast item?

It involves bagels. With or without cheese, sausage, whatever. Every morning or at least 6 days a week.

What do you find yourself buying all the time?

Food. I swear, I need to cut that out.

When was the last time you got a real letter in the mail?

A full-on letter? That's been awhile, probably in the years category. I did get several cards for assorted reasons--not just my birthday--this month.

Do you have a most prized piece of jewelry?

My mom's turquoise ring.

Do you own any board games?

Oh FFS.... Yes. Probably close to 3 dozen.

What chore seems the most daunting right now?

Sorting out the crap shoved in the storage area under the back stairs. And also the Christmas ornaments we never use.

Were you born in the state you live in?

Nope. But three members of my extended family were.

Have you ever lived in a house that has been broken into?

We had a summer cabin that was broken into. Otherwise, no. Thank God and knock wood.

What is your favorite cheese?

"Wensleydale!" I like hard cheese of almost any sort.

Who do you know that watches the most sports?

Well, that would be Beast. Or maybe one of our churchy guy friends.

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It) (2008)
Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) Are the majority of your friends married or single?

Hmm. Probably leans toward married, maybe 60/40.

2) Rings are one of the items most frequently pawned. Have you ever visited a pawn shop, either to sell or to buy?

Nope. I only visit pawnshops on TV (Pawn Stars, Hardcore Pawn...)

3) Let's say we want to put a ring on it: What's your ring size?

I have no idea now. When I got engaged, I think I was a 6.5 or something of the sort. My ring has been resized at least once since then, however.

4) Beyonce does commercials for Pepsi. What's the last beverage you drank?

I'm working on a can of the usual Diet Dr. Pepper of course. Do you really ever need to ask?

5) Beyonce also has a clothing line. What are you wearing right now?

Lee jeans and a top with dangly "ties" minus the hoodie that usually goes with them. It's cute, but sounds awful when I describe it.

6) Speaking of clothes, Sam was changing hers this morning when she unintentionally flashed her neighbor. She didn't realize he was working along the fence that runs under her bedroom window. When was your most recent "OOPS!" moment?

I have one pair of underwear that needs to be retired because it doesn't stay up. I had to go into the library workroom Thursday and reach into my pants and pull up the panties. Thank God for high cube walls! Otherwise, I don't think I've flashed anyone recently.

7) Rumor has it Beyonce is pregnant again. Coincidentally, Sam needs to check the Babys R Us registry for a shower present. Who will receive the next gift you give?

More than likely it will be Beast since his birthday is next month, but maybe not.

8) But Sam doesn't actually want to go to the shower and is trying to come up a good excuse. Tell us a time you fibbed [you told] to get out of doing something.

We were invited to a hayride/bonfire last Saturday night, but it rained the whole day and Beast & I got into a huge argument so we ended up bailing on it. Mostly, I didn't want to go anyway because of allergies, but I swear I didn't concoct the day as an excuse! Usually, my lame excuse is more of a generalized "I don't feel good" headache/allergies thing.

9) When did you last go inside the bank and talk to a teller?

Hooo...it's been awhile. I stopped in several months ago to talk about Sparky's educational savings account, which turned out to be NOT that anymore so that was good.

Curious as a Cat

(Link in meme-roll)

1) What's the most significant secret you've ever kept? Did the truth ever come out?

I'm a big NON-believer in secrets. I've seen them cause so much damage over the decades in families and people. However, there are a few secrets I have kept. One regards the attraction a friend of mine has (had?) toward one of my relatives. It's a not a "secret" in the sense that it's probably easily visible to anyone with a brain and eyeballs, but since my relatives are often lacking in brain-power.... There are some other more important things that I keep quiet about, just because it's probably none of my business that I even know about it in the first place.

2) Create a new recipe with just five ingredients.

Does it have to be new? I make a mean tuna casserole with whatever's in the pantry (besides noodles and tuna, of course). There's also the famous "leftovers omelet" or "leftovers sandwich", but I'm not sure those count either. One must remember that my sister and her husband once made pizza out of frozen bread dough and several cans from another sister's pantry (corn, mushrooms, etc.). It wasn't awful, but it was definitely weird. So I learned from that: you can make a meal out of an almost infinite variety of "whatever you've got" plus seasonings and spices, and Worcestershire and/or soy sauce. ;-) One recent cooking adventure was frozen chicken strips coated in whole-wheat flour, paprika, parsley and peppercorns [those were the spices I grabbed--could have been lemon-pepper, oregano, and ginger, among other options) with a little olive oil drizzled over the top and baked. Throw a salad together and eat.

3) What's your favorite place in the world?

There's a little crevice in the cliff-side across the highway from the house we used to own in the mountains of Colorado that I used to hike up to with my dog when I was a kid. Two house-sized boulders had rolled together and created a cleft with a perfect little sitting area. Assuming I could get back up the hillside nowadays, sans dog, of course, I think I could pass some great time thinking and reading there....

4) Show and Tell. What comes to mind first when you see this picture? Or, tell a story if it reminds you of one.

Photo © Cat. 2013

I took this photo last summer while standing in line to scan and pay for groceries at Meijer. The sign cracked me up: "Pet Baby," really? Sparky was rather embarrassed at my photo-snapping, which made it even funnier.

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
90, part 2

30. Do you read your horoscope?

Not unless it's sitting there in front of me.

31. Where was the last place you bought something?

I went grocery shopping yesterday and then stopped for breakfast at BK.

32. How do you feel about your hair right now?

It's a bit wind-blown and probably a little trashed, but overall I have few hair issues.

33. Do you bite your nails?

Yup, more's the pity.

34. Do you have any expensive jewelry?

I do. Not outrageously expensive, but two rings with gems, a couple of fancy necklaces and several pairs of gemstone earrings. I think there's a squash-blossom set similar to this somewhere too; that was my mother-in-law's and I haven't worn it yet. If I lived about 900 miles west and south, I'd be tempted to wear it every damn day though.

35. Have you ever been told you speak fast?

Yes. I speak about twice the speed I grew up speaking. People east of the Mississippi and north of about the 40-degree latitude line talk fuckingfast!

36. Is your laugh usually hearty?

Not 'usually' but occasionally it's loud, yes.

37. How fast have you driven a car?

I've hit 90 while passing people. It's not just talking people do fast around here.

38. Have you ever smoked?

Only while angry, from the ears.

39. What was your favorite subject in school?

I did well in most subjects, but preferred English and History.

40. Do you have cell phone provider loyalty?

Not really. We use Sprint now, and it's been fine. Inertia tends to rule in this area.

41. What type of boy or girl do you usually fall for?

I don't really have a type, unless we're talking about the under-5-years-old set. Then, a cute grin and a giggle melts my heart.

42. Do you have any hidden talents?

They're pretty well hidden from me as well. I can alphabetize at warp speed; does that count?

43. Favorite song?

We sang part of "Amazing Grace" at church today. I love that song.

44. Do you like to sing at all?

Yes, I do. I don't necessarily sound great, but I do like singing.

45. Dream job?

What I do now, only doing it at home without the annoying people.

46. Where does most of your family live?

I have family at the following latitudes/longitudes: 52°N/1°W, 51°N/2°W, 40°N/3°W, 40°N/73°W, 36°N/82°W, 41°N/88°W, 42°N/87°W, 43°N/88°W, 32°N/96°W, 32°N/97°W, and 38°N/107°W. There is no "most"--the most at any of those locations is 4, and the least is 1.

47. Are you an only child or do you have siblings?

My parents raised 5 kids to adulthood. Three of us are still hanging on.

48. Would you consider yourself to be spoiled?

I am very spoiled.

49. What was the first thing you thought when you woke up?

Today? "Mmmph, snooze alarm" probably sums it up.

50. Do you drink?

Of course, or I'd be dead. I have an occasional glass of wine, and I love me some Stoli, but I rarely have it anymore.

51. Know any other languages?

I can make do in Spanish, and I can read several other European languages, kinda.

52. Ever write a coded message?

When I was about 10, yes. Sometimes I feel like I'm speaking in code all the time, or maybe just a completely different language from what those around me are capable of understanding.

53. Have you ever been in someone else's wedding?

Yes. Quite a few times, actually.

54. Do you have any children?

I have one.

55. Did you take a nap today?

I predict there may be a short one in my future today.

56. Who has the same birthday as you?

Two high school friends were born on the same day as me in the same hospital. As for famous people, Wikipedia says I share date and year with an American actor and singer, an American journalist, blogger, and activist, and a Japanese actor, none of whom I've ever heard of. One of the Bay City Rollers was born on my birthday; I never knew that! Thank you, Wikipedia.

57. Ever met anyone famous before?

I met Stephen T0b0l0wski briefly once.

58. Do you want to be famous one day?

HELL no.

59. Any pet peeves?

Soooo many!! lol Trying to pare them down, but I have to say that intentional, cultivated stupidity is probably the biggest one overall.

60. Are you multitasking right now?

Well, sort of: Beast is flipping back and forth between the U.S. Open (golf) and the Michigan 400 (NASCAR) but I'm not paying a lot of attention to that. They're both serving to put me to sleep. See #55.

Saturday 9

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sleeping.

Thursday 13

(Link in meme-roll)
Things Starting with J

1. Journal. I wish I could figure out my antipathy toward daily journaling. I'm just really lousy at it.


2. Jeans. I need to go buy some new ones. Those I own are too small. :(


3. Job. I'm in kind of a drought at work. There's a ton going on, and I feel like I'm going full-speed just trying to keep up, much less get a handle on things.



4. Jackalope. I miss the West. And I think I had this very same picture in my room as a child.


5. Joke. Yes, those are a joke. I believed in them for awhile when I was a kid, because my brother liked teasing me


6. Junk. So much of it in my life. Ugh. Need to clean. Need to purge!


7. Jeep. I have always wanted a Jeep, but I totally live in a stupid place to own one. I don't see that changing. Ever. And that's a drag. Oh, well, another dead childhood dream.


8. Jalapeño. I used to always have poppers when we went to T0mmy's (a local fast food place), but I just recently discovered they also have deep-fried mac-n-cheese! Holy crap...!


9. Jewelry. I think I will have to bite the bullet this summer and take all my rings to get them resized. My fingers are too fat already this spring to get them off (or back on) easily. The losing weight thing...hasn't been happening.


10. Jammies. Still wearing my winter flannels. I've usually started substituting in lighter ones on warmer nights, but we haven't HAD any warm nights. The winds blowing a gale out there right now, in fact.


11. Jonquil. Nor have I seen anything sprouting in my garden yet. At least I can SEE the garden now, though. The only place there's still now is the ditches.


12. Jump. I'm very used to jumping up out of chairs (and plopping into them) rather abruptly, at work and elsewhere. This week, due to a bit of middle-of-the-night acrobatics on the stairs, I'm finding it quite difficult to move much faster than the average tortoise. Hopefully, I'll be able to jump around like a psychotic flea again by Monday or Tuesday.


13. Jerk. There's been a surprising lack of them at the library this week. 'Course, I work this weekend, so there's still hope.

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
Jingle Bell Rock

1) Sam has affection for this song because, when she was very young, she tap-danced to it for a Christmas recital. Her parents told her she was wonderful. Do you have any memories from a school/church program or pageant -- either as a child onstage or an adult in the audience?

I played a rat in our 4th-grade production of "The Pied Piper of Hamelin" and that was enough of the stage for me. After that I stuck to musical performance.

2) Ok, she admits it: After too many cups of holiday cheer, Sam did a few steps of her "Jingle Bell Rock" routine at last year's company Christmas party. Have you ever done anything at a coworker get together that you now regret?

Just talk too much, laugh too loud. Nothing worse than that.

3) Since that unfortunate Christmas 2012 incident, Sam can't even look at a cup of egg nog. How about you? Do you like egg nog?

I adore eggnog, but I haven't bought any this year. I'll be drinking it alcohol-free, which actually tastes better to me anyway.

4) For special events, Sam slips on her favorite piece of jewelry: a charm bracelet that once belonged to her grandmother. Do you have a special treasure from a previous generation?

Yes, I have a few pieces of my mom's. My dad's side...I suspect his sisters got the jewelry and he got the papers, so I have tons of photos.

5) The only Christmas card Sam has received so far in 2013 is from her insurance agent. How about you? Have any holiday cards arrived yet?

We've received about 7. We aren't sending any.

6) Because of the chill in the air, Sam gave her dog his Christmas gift -- a sweater -- early this year. He's already gotten compliments on it. Are there any pets on your gift list?

I will probably buy them a bag of carrots.

7) Do you need snow to get "into the spirit?"

It helps, but I'm not having a lot of luck in the getting into the spirit thing this year.

8) Are you going to get/have you gotten a flu shot this year?

I have already, yes.

9) December is an important fundraising month for charities. Here's your chance to plug a worthy cause that means a lot to you.

Presbyterian Disaster Assistance is currently providing direct relief in the Philippines, all the tornado sites in the states, and other places like that. We worked with them on Hurricane Katrina relief years ago.

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
Suck it, Nerds!

What would you totally eat right now?

We're sort of redoing Thanksgiving dinner right now (we didn't celebrate till yesterday): Beast is having mashed potatoes (round 2 3 4? I'm having stuffing and a piece of blueberry pie (shortly).

Do you always wear a certain piece of jewelry?

Pretty much always have on my engagement and wedding rings, and my anniversary ring.

What kind of jeans do you like?

Lee. Also, Gloria Vanderbilt for "fancy" jeans.

What's something on your want list?

I would like to be more organized in my use of time.

Is animal print tacky?

Depends on when/where it's used. I only wear it in a very ironic way.

Give me a good quote that you like.

My, Miss Bossy Boots! OK, here ya go: "Quotation, n: The act of repeating erroneously the words of another." (Ambrose Bierce)

Do you bite your nails?

Yes, and it's been a rough month or two...they are very short.

What kind of smells do you like?

I like the smell of clean. And babies; I got a my baby-smell fix yesterday yay!

Do you wear perfume or cologne?

I do: either VS or Gossip.

What do you think is overrated?

Baseball, and most movies.

Next movie you want to see?

I really really need to learn to read ahead...sigh. I'm kinda jonesing to see "Catching Fire.

Would you change your eye color if you could?

Nope. I don't mess with my eyes unless absolutely necessary.

And what are your goals for the remainder of this year?

I'd like to keep the stress level extremely low.

When is the last time you were at the hospital?

About 55 days ago bringing Beast home.

Who introduced you to your current significant other? If you’re single, who introduced you to your last ex?

Beast was in the same chemistry class freshman year of college as my roommate and decided he wanted to get to know her better so he showed up in our dorm. She ignored him completely but I talked to him and he just kept coming back. Eventually, we started talking more seriously, and then dating.

This is, somewhat fittingly, the Devil's Post: Number 6666. ROFLWTFBBQ!!!

Patrick's Place

(Link in meme-roll)
Saturday Six

1. Which is your favorite rock band?

U2.

2. Which rock other than the one that is your real birthstone do you wish was your birthstone?

I've always wanted to be Opal (October). Don't ask me why: there's no deep meaning, beyond knowing someone with that name once, and liking opals.

3. How many pieces of jewelry do you own with your actual birthstone in it?

I have one necklace, which I rarely wear because it's topaz set in gold. I don't like gold, and you can barely see the topaz against the gold.

4. Which sketch, if any, do you most remember from ABC’s Saturday morning "Schoolhouse Rock" series?

I was never allowed to watch cartoons on Saturday mornings, so I never got to see "Schoolhouse Rock" except as an adult. My mother has a lot to answer for!

5. Do you own a rocking chair?

Yes. And I used it today, too, but not while I was holding the baby.

6. Someone who can be strong in the face of adversity is often described as a "rock." Who in your life is that rock for you?

God.

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.

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
The Weird Question Meme, Part Two

What is your ring size?

I haven't the foggiest. I think when I got my original wedding and engagement rings they were around size 7. I've resized them once, so they're at least an 8 now.

How often do you wear jewelry?

I always have rings on (wedding, engagement, and either my mom's turquoise or my anniversary ring), and usually earrings. In the summer, I have a toe ring on all the time, unless I'm wearing tight shoes. Occasionally I remember to grab a necklace.

When was the last time you consumed alcohol?

I had a couple of V&Ts last night. First alcohol in weeks.

Any big plans for the summer?

Not really. Anniversary in a few weeks. I'm on backup labor-coach-duty at the end of July. My overseas brother-in-law is coming for a conference in Montreal so he's included a couple of weeks prior to that to see the family; he'll be here at the end of September. The local schools start back on August 15, so I'll be headed back to volunteering at the school library around then too. We're sort of targeting our birthdays for a big trip.

What is your favorite comfort food?

Macaroni and cheese with iced sugar cookies for dessert.

Do you prefer broccoli or asparagus?

Broccoli is way more versatile. Asparagus has to be done just right or it's awful.

What color are your bedroom walls?

Sky blue on three of them, sandy brown on the other.

With whom do you live?

I live with Beast, when he's not on a business trip, and Ruka and Pinto the (guinea) piggies. Sparky is home for about 20 hours for Father's Day right now.

Which Star Wars movie is your favorite?

The first one, from 1977. The rest bore the pants off of me, especially the sequels/prequels.

How about Harry Potter?

Wow, uhm...I like the whole series. I guess my favorite would probably be the second or third, before things go completely dark. Basically, before Umbridge. She was horrible; the movies don't do her justice at all.

What was the last movie you saw in theaters?

We went and saw the latest Star Trek flick a couple of weeks ago. It was pretty good.

Did you get the popcorn or candy?

For a change, we only got popcorn (and pop).

What is the most romantic text in your inbox?

...er, beyond the g'byes, which usually include an exchange of "love you"s, I can't find one. We don't really 'do' romantic.

Have you ever played miniature golf on a date?

The mental picture here is astoundingly funny. On a date? With tiny clubs? No water hazards or sand traps, just sticky 'greens'?
I probably did go on a mini-golf date, but I don't honestly remember. I know we have mini-golfed together after getting married--does that count as a date still?

What's a phrase you overuse?

"Aaact-chullee..." Every damn day.

Do you always use good grammar?

Nope. Sometimes I just don't give two shits.

Do you have an accent or a speech impediment?

Lol, what a question! We all have an accent. Mine changes regularly--I've recently learned that some of that is called "Code Switching." I also tend to stutter when I'm tired or excited. Then there's the fact that sometimes I don't pay attention to how the words coming out of my mouth are going to sound until they're out and I'm mortified.

What did you eat today?

So far, a couple of handfuls of cheddar flavored mini rice cakes and 8 glazed donut holes. Washed down with a can of diet Dr. Pepper. Of course.

What do you do at work?

Try to keep out of trouble and stay awake, if one were to judge by this past week. Mostly, I stare at MARC records looking for mistakes to fix, adding content when necessary, and exporting from OCLC to our catalog. Also, writing call numbers in books, counting them all as I go for statistics. That's the part of my job I like (usually). Then there's the "[Cat.], this isn't checking out for the right period!", [Cat.], this doesn't show up in the catalog right!", [Cat.], can you add a heading for the series?" and questions/problems like that. Also, emails about people having placed orders that need to be downloaded into our catalog and into our On-Order list. Let's not forget the director stopping by to ask how/why/when questions (Thursday it was because of the directors' meeting on Friday--what did he need to discuss about future catalog changes). Occasionally, someone from Reference will call and ask if I can help, either with a specific question or for me to come back them up. Hmm...there's always email and RSS feeds to catch up on, assorted random-but-regular tasks to deal with, and gossip to be shared. And I'm usually have an IM window open with Beast all day, unless he's on the road. ← All of which clarifies for me why Twitter does NOT work for me--I'm already too fragmented

Do you know the rules to any sports?

Well, yeah, as a matter of fact, I do. Except cricket. Cricket rules are way too complicated for me. But I'm pretty clear on football (American) and baseball. I can follow hockey, basketball, volleyball and most track-and-field events too. Golf baffles me, though I understand the general idea. NASCAR, well, I mostly understand, except every track seems to have it's own set of special rules about pit speed and the bottom yellow line.

Do you prefer to watch or play sports?

What do you think, at this stage of my life? I'm a watcher.

What is your favorite kind of hat to wear?

Cowboy. But not around here: I'd look a right moron.

Do you pray?

Yes. I'm currently reading Anne Lamott's Help Thanks Wow and realizing that those are sometimes the only words that are needed. I do the 'formal' form of praying, and sometimes it's just a "Hey God!" prayer. One of our youth group members always started her prayers that way.

To whom do you pray?

God, Jesus, Spirit, whoever-it-is-in-control-of-this-mess. Occasionally my dad or grandparents or sisters. I know, the latter is somewhat heretical, but sometimes I just want a hug from one of them.

What is the closest mountain to your house?

Define "mountain." There is a ski hill about 20 minutes north of us, but it's pathetic. I think the nearest actual mountain--a mountain that I consider a mountain, not a less-flat high place--is probably at least 500 miles away. This is why sometimes I bloody well hate it here!

What size engine is in your vehicle?

Beast says it's a 4-banger, a big one. Drives like at least a 6.

What do you need to do tomorrow?

Go to work: looks like I get to spend 12-1 at the Reference Desk, but the rest of the time I'm hoping to plod through more of the cataloging backlog. I also need to make appointments for the exams my doc wrote orders for over a month ago, and pick up Sparky's contacts.

Saturday 9 (x 2)

(Link in meme-roll)
Stormy Weather

1) Do noisy storms scare you?

Thunderstorms don't scare me, assuming I'm inside somewhere. Big, swirling winds, though...yeah, THOSE scare me.

2) Mother Winters tells us Lena Horne was considered one of the great beauties of the 1940s. Whom do you consider one of today's most beautiful women?

Sticking with the musical field only, I'll go with Beyonce, Shakira, and Gwen Stefani because they are gorgeous AND they can sing!

3) Crazy Sam admits it -- there's a big bag of recycling she really should take out to the bin. Yet she's composing this meme. What should you be doing, instead of answering her questions?

I promised myself I'd be going through magazines that have accrued while catching up with Beast's TV viewing for the past three weeks.

4) Sam may be crazy, but she's not stupid and will never waste her money on Cialis, no matter how many unsolicited emails she receives! What's the most recent addition to your spam folder?

"Don’t let these nasty pharmacists take you to the cleaners!" from Expess Pharmacy, with a URL I'm not clicking.

5) What was the last thing you cooked?

I toasted a bagel about half an hour ago and put some American cheese on top of it.

6) Do you remember the lyrics to your either your high school or college fight song? If so, please share a bit.

"Come on, [home town] / Come on, [home town] / Fight right through that line / With your colors flying high / We'll win [sic] them every time / Come on, [home town] / Fight for future fame / Fight, fellas, fight, fight, fight / We'll win this ga-aa-ame" (sung to the tune of "On Wisconsin") I don't remember my college song though, sorry.

7) "Samantha" is the feminine of "Samuel" and means "Listener." What's the derivation of your first name?

It's an alternative spelling for a plant generally used as an award; or perhaps a noisy bird in Spanish-speaking countries. Online, the shortened version of "Cataloger" which used to be my user name.

8) Are you following the NBA or NHL this year? If so, which team are you rooting for?

No, as usual, I couldn't possibly care less than I do right now about either. I did watch part of a b-ball game last week and was astounded (again) by how ugly that game is.

9) Gloves, umbrellas, sunglasses, keys -- which of these do you misplace most often?

Of those, probably gloves. I can only fight two complete pairs.

Aida

1) Have you ever been to the opera?

Yes. In Leningrad. It was an Italian opera translated and sung in Russian. No freakin' clue about the details, but it was fun sitting in a box seat, the only time I'm likely to have that experience for sure.

2) Maria Callas was often called a "diva." Is that a compliment or a criticism?

Nowadays, I'd consider it a criticism, but I think in her time it was less of a slam.

3) Aida was composed by famous Italian Giusseppe Verdi. In addition to opera, what else can the world thank Italy for?

Very attractive people, and a lot of stupendous art. Also, good food.

4) Verdi was Italian and Callas was Greek. Would you rather vacation in Italy or Greece?

I'm not fussed, either will do. I've been both places and essentially I wouldn't mind time on a Greek island or in Florence or Rome.

5) The Marx Bros. starred in A Night at the Opera. What's the funniest movie you have ever seen?

I literally fell off the couch doubled up in laughter pain the first time I saw "Heathers" on TV. Otherwise, I laugh pretty hard at "Home Alone" when I see it.

6) What's for dinner tonight?

Bagel with cheese, and maybe I'll have a bowl of cereal for 'dessert.'

7) Are you wearing any jewelry right now?

Three rings.

8) Sam Winters has a scratchy throat and watery eyes. How do you treat the common cold?

Vitamin C, chicken noodle soup, and SLEEP.

9) Do you need your glasses (or contacts) when you drive?

I don't really drive with my eyes: usually I use a car and my hands and feet. However, if you don't want me to run into things, I'll be needing my glasses on. I can't see clearly five feet in front of me without them.

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
The Back 15 Meme

15) How do you vent out your anger?

Stomp around, write (this is a bad idea), growl at people...and eventually calm down to plot my revenge.

16) Favourite toy as a child?

Toy cars. Jumprope. Dolls. Jacks. Books, though I suppose those aren't precisely toys.

17) Favourite season?

Fall. Or autumn since we're being all British here.

18) Do you ever get letters delivered by the post office?

Well, yyyes. Or at least the occasional card. OK, so yeah, I don't actually get letters, not personal ones very often.

19) When was the last time you laughed hard?

In the car while taking Sparky back to college this afternoon.

20) What is on the floor of your closet?

Dust. Several laundry baskets--mostly empty since I did laundry today--shoes...and a packed back for emergencies.

21) Are you any good at drawing?

No. I doodle with the pros, but not representative of anything but geometry, and the occasional pine tree.

22) What did you do last night?

Came home from work, made dinner with Sparky, ate, watched Friday's CSI:NY, went to bed. Woke up with a VERY itchy eye at about 1, so I guess that's morning by then.

23) What are you most afraid of?

I'm mostly afraid of something awful happening to a loved one.

24) Plain, cheese or spicy hamburger?

Cheese, of course.

25) Favourite dog breed?

Hypoallergenic if I'm going to be around much. Actually, though, I really don't care: dogs = yay.

26) Favorite day of the week?

...and suddenly we're NOT British anymore! I like Mondays, actually.

27) How many states / provinces / countries have you lived in?

Three states.

28) Diamond or pearl?

Turquoise, all things being equal.

29) What is your wish for this new year?

I would really like a long stretch of boredom, and the motivation to get healthy.

30) New year resolutions:

Don't make 'em.