Saturday 9 (x2)

(Link in meme-roll)

Hold On (1990)

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

 

1) This song gives encouragement to someone who is enduring heartache. Have you more recently given support, or received it?

There's been a lot of receiving of late. It's not a place I'm very comfortable living in. 

2) "Hold On" is featured prominently in the 2011 movie Bridesmaids. It's an anthem for the friends in the film and they love to sing it together. Is there a song that reminds you of good times with a good friend?

One that reminds me of college, and one specific college friend, is "Safety Dance." It's a terminally silly song, with great memories around concerts and campus radio sets, that makes me smile every damn time I hear it. 

3) The video for this song finds Wilson Phillips outdoors on a snowy mountainside and then on a sandy beach. What's the view outside your window?

Cloudy skies, green trees and the eave of the house next door is all I can see from my recliner. 

4) The mountain segments were filmed in California's San Gabriel Mountains. The girls were flown to the set by helicopter. Have you ever been in a helicopter?

I would LOVE to have a long helicopter ride around some scenic area just for the experience. The only person I know of close to me who's been in a helicopter is Beast and that was Flight for Life. This is NOT how I wish to travel!

5) The members of Wilson Phillips are authentic "California Girls." Wendy and Carnie Wilson's father is Brian Wilson, who wrote the Beach Boys hit[s]. Chynna Phillips is the daughter of John and Michelle Phillips of the Mamas and the Papas, who sang "California Dreamin'." Have you been to California? If yes, where did you visit?

I've been to Cali several times, mostly to cities--San Diego, San Francisco, Los Angeles--but I loved the ocean in each of those areas. 

6) Another generation of the Wilson family has entered the music business. Carnie's daughter/Brian Wilson's granddaughter, Lola Bonfiglio, participated in the current season of American Idol. Has a family member followed you in your chosen profession?

Heh. I followed my sister into Library Science. My niece followed me into it. We all (have) had good long careers in a field that is wholly worthwhile and rewarding (when it isn't wholly frustrating and infuriating).

7) In 1990, when this song was popular, satellite radio was in its infancy and streaming was unheard of. Our cars gave us a choice of AM/FM and maybe CD player/tape deck. When you're driving and a favorite song comes on, are you more likely to sing along if you're alone? Or don't you care if anyone hears you?

I rarely listen to music in the car anymore. I have a ginormous backlog of podcast episodes I'm trying to get through. I do talk back to them regularly, and sometimes pause the whole thing to argue about something, but not when/where people can see me. If I do have music on I sing along rather mindlessly, whether or not others are around. I don't care if anyone else hears or sees me. I don't mind being the crazy old lady in town. 

8) Also in 1990, actor Alan Hale Jr. died. He was "the skipper" on Gilligan's Island. Without looking it up, can you name the other six castaways? (If not the actors, then their characters.)

Gilligan, the millionaire and his wife, the movie star, the professor and Mary Ann. I don't know all the actors' names, but man I loved that show as a kid. 

9) Random question: What superhero would you like to have as your best friend?

Deadpool seems fun, if rather dangerous, to hang out with. [I don't see most superhero movies, so that's all I can come up with...]

Too Shy (1983)

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

1) This song laments vulnerability and self-consciousness in a social settings. Are you often "too shy?" Or are social gatherings easy for you?

I am terminally shy, but adept at snapping on my Public Mask in a flash and smiling and schmoozing through a (short) party or meeting. Also, I'm unable to abide silence in social settings so I talk too much.  

2) In the lyrics, a girl self-censors, telling herself, "hush hush." Have you more recently shushed someone, or were you shushed?

As a librarian.... ha ha ha. I get shushed by patrons more than I shush them. Then again, most of my public service work is in the children's room, so it's pretty loud in there. I did get shushed yesterday at work by a little girl who wanted us to whisper about the snake puppet she said had bitten her, and which then bit me. 😀 

3) Band member Nick Beggs recalls that they called themselves Kajagoogoo because it sounded like something that would make a baby laugh. It is fun to say. Can you think of another word that you just enjoy saying?

"Shenanigans."  Also, "boooolllshiiiitttt." 

4) This was the only US hit for the British band, earning Kajagoogoo the title "One Hit Wonder." Can you think of another artist or band who had one really popular song and then just kind of disappeared?

Well, I seem to be calling out "Safety Dance" a lot this week, so I'll hit them up again.

5) Though fame was fleeting here, Kajagoogoo remained popular in England. Lead singer Limahl recalls the adulation as "overwhelming," and he was shocked when he stepped on stage in Cornwall to see row after row of fans wearing their hair like he did. Have you ever handed a photo to a stylist and said, "Make my hair look like this?"

I don't think I've done precisely this, but I did have a "Lady Di" haircut as a late teen, and I'm sure I've said other things to hairdressers over the years about hairstyles I thought would work with my hair. 

6) In 1983, when this song was popular, the Lotus 1-2-3 program made it easier for PC users to make spreadsheets. Are you answering these questions on a Mac or PC? Laptop, phone or tablet?

I'm on a Lenovo laptop. I've never used a Mac except when strictly necessary, and phones/tablets have too small of a keyboard for me to properly type.

7) 1983 saw Abbey Road Studios open their doors for the first time for public tours. During the first two months, 22,000 tickets were sold to fans who wanted to see where the Beatles made their magic. What's the last ticket you purchased?

I can honestly say that I haven't purchased tickets for ANYthing in years. Maybe parking in a hospital lot, but honestly even then I think it was just a pass-through not an actual ticket.  

8) Also in 1983, McDonald's introduced Chicken McNuggets. When was chicken most recently on the menu at your home? How was it prepared?

At home? I have a container of rotisserie chicken shreds I nosh on for dinner once in awhile. I had chicken strips from some fastfood place this week for lunch, maybe even McDonalds. I eat a lot of chicken. Or peanut butter. Those are my main protein sources. 

9) Random question: Have you ever forgotten where you left your car in a parking lot?

I forgot which lot I parked in AT WORK on Wednesday this week! This isn't an uncommon occurrence. I'm the flakiest person on staff, hands-down. 

Friday 5 x 2

(Link in meme-roll)
It’s Electric

1. What’s the dumbest thing you’ve ever done with electricity?

   I'm sure it involved something in the bathroom and water. I can't think of anything specifically. However, I've been much more careful since nearly electrocuting myself in England because the current is considerably higher and the plugs considerably heavier.

2. How did you last pass the time when your residence was without power for at least a few hours?

   Reading books. Or possibly sleeping. Those are the general go-tos when we lose power. If it's night-time, I guess I'll have to figure out the generator. Ugh.

3. Around how many AA and AAA batteries do you have on standby?

   Probably 4 or so of each. I should check that; I honestly have no idea.

4. How do you feel about lightning?

   I love watching the show from safely inside or far away.

5. When did you last dance the Electric Slide, and if you’ve never done it, what’s the closest you’ve come to dancing the Electric Slide?

   I think there was some of this going on at my nephew's wedding last year, but I was in charge of the one-year-old at the time so I was dancing with him, which eliminates the Electric Slide.

+ + + + + + + + + + + + +

Finding a Way

1. What’s something you’ve been unable to find?

   When my husband fell in September, he was wearing his cross, and possibly his wedding ring. I know they removed the necklace and gave it to me, probably the ring too. I haven't been able to find them since. I have zero memory of what I did when I came home that night. Morning. Whatever. The cross was purchased at St. Paul's in London. The wedding ring is pretty valuable. I've got through sick about losing them all the way into panic, desperation, and depression.

2. How’s your sense of direction?

   If I have a map, I'm good. If I'm in Denver, I know very quickly where the cardinal directions are. Otherwise, I'm fairly hopeless.

3. How good are you at sitting still?

   I can do it. But I hate it.

4. What’s something your parents always said you needed to get better at?

   According to my mom, I was the easiest of the five kids in my family. I got straight As and behaved myself (i.e. never got caught misbehaving). I don't remember anything they complained about. Dad would have like it if I understood math better.

5. In what way are you a better person today than you were ten years ago?

   I'm far more patient than I was. I take things far less personally these days too.

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
What Hurts the Most (2006)
Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) What hurts Sam the most is her sole, since she just found that earring she thought was lost by stepping on it with her bare foot. How about you? Any aches and pains to report?

I have a couple of weird bruises on my feet, noticed this morning. I know where they came from--one's from a badly-placed toe-ring, the other is from 'falling off' my (flat) sandals yesterday--but they are in truly weird places. Also, I've got a headache. Probably allergies, but I seem to have developed a minor cold so it could be that as well. Otherwise, and compared to Beast, my health is rosy.

2) What's the last thing you misplaced? Did you find it?

I'm pretty sure my brain fell out somewhere yesterday afternoon. The jury's still out on whether it's back or not. I can't think of anything major I've misplaced recently, though. Oh, we still have no idea where my file for my birth certificates is. Or if we even have any. I need to contact Vital Stats in Colorado and order some more.

3) Lead singer Gary LeVox sings that he's not afraid to cry. When is the last time you shed a tear?

I've been yawning so hard the last week--probably allergy-related--that my eyes water in defense, so there's that. Otherwise...I'm not sure. I didn't cry at meeting last night, which is rare. I'm sure there were tears at some point earlier in the week; it's rare for me to go a week without crying about something.

4) Gary auditioned for another country group, Little Big Town, but didn't get in. Considering how successful Rascal Flatts has been, he's probably not sorry. Tell us about something you thought you wanted, but later weren't so sure.

I can't think of anything major. There's always a small sense of 'buyer's remorse' at some point after achieving or getting something. I mean, how many parents haven't wondered why in the hell they reproduced at certain moments of their child's life? Or why we wanted a pet after having to clean up the 53rd mess today? Or that outfit that fell apart the first time you wore it?

5) The country group has their roots in Columbus, Ohio. What else is Ohio known for?

The Rock n Roll Hall of Fame! (and the hospital where Baby Beastie made his appearance)

6) Lead guitarist Joe Don Rooney married model and former Miss Georgia, Tiffany Fallon. Many major pageants give prizes in the talent, congeniality and swimsuit competitions. Would you prefer to have exceptional skills, a great personality, or a terrific body?

All in all, I'd rather have a nap.

7) 2006, the year this song was popular, was a very good one for tennis pro Roger Federer. He reached the finals in all four Grand Slam tournaments, and won three. What's the last game you won? (Yes, Words with Friends counts.)

I won a trivia challenge last night (similar to WWF). Otherwise, I don't tend to play win-lose games anymore because I'm a really bad loser.

8) Actor Tony Shalhoub won an Emmy in 2006 for his portrayal of detective Adrian Monk on Monk. Who's your favorite TV detective?

Gil Grissom holds a very special place in my heart, though he's not technically a detective. So the backup is Olivia Benson, who is my hero.

9) Random question ... You've just won an all-expenses-paid trip but now you have to choose: Carnivale in Brazil, the Bordeaux Wine Festival in France, or the Running of the Bulls in Spain?

I'm not going to a wine festival unless I go there without Beast. The other two I would only be involved in if I had a great hotel room overlooking the festivities; I have no interest in participating in either.

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
Anyday Meme

1. What is your dream career, and what path do you plan to take to get there?

I'm in it, and I take the same path to it every morning. Unless I detour past McD's for a large diet Coke.

2. Who do you aspire most to be like?

Do I sound like a lunatic if my answer is "Jesus"?

3. What do you like in a best friend?

Someone who likes me, who has a sense of humor and a sense of boundaries.

4. Do you currently have any squishes (people you really want to be best friends with)?

There are some people I'd like to get to know better, but as much as I like the concept of 'squishes' I don't think I have any right now.

5. What is your ideal platonic relationship?

Hanging out laughing, doing nothing much, talking about books and people and Important Things.

6. Best late night IM/phone conversation story.

I don't really do late-night stuff--too busy sleeping. Unless you count the call I made to neighbors last month at 3 a.m. because my house was flooding and Beast was bleeding.

7. List one person you’d like to wear the sweater of, one person you’d like to bake cookies with, and one person you’d like to drive around and get lost with. (can be celebrities or fictional characters, has to be three different people and not all the same person)

I would love to still have one of my dad's sweaters, unwashed, that smelled of him. I'll bake cookies--or just eat cookie dough!!--with Amy and/or Jenny. Getting lost would be fun on my own, or with Sparky if I'm feeling mean--he HATES being lost!

8. Describe your current best friend(s).

If you do a search on the blog for "best friends" you'll find many descriptions of them. I'm rather fiercely loyal to my besties; the list hasn't changed.

9. What is a strange, little-known fact about you?

I do my own pedicures. Only had about three "professional" ones in my life.

10. What is a career you wanted to have when you were younger, and still kind of want to have now?

Does "Grandma" count?

11. If you could have tea and pleasant conversation with one person, who would it be?

Dorothy Parker.

12. If you had a time machine, what era would you go to?

I'd like to go whenever it meant that I'd have a) absolutely equal rights with men, and b) meds that would make my dog allergies moot.

13. What celebrity or historical figure would you love to have as your best friend and why?

I think Jennifer Garner would be fun to hang out with.

14. What fictional character would you love to have as your best friend and why?

Laura Ingalls and I are already best buds.

15. If you could have one wish, what would it be (cannot be related to romance or sex)?

World peace and justice. I know, but really....can't we just stop fighting for awhile??

16. If you were trapped on a deserted island and could only take one item, what would it be?

A rescue flare.

17. If you could pick one career other than the one you are pursuing/plan to pursue, what would it be?

Professional sleeper.

[and with that answer, I keeled over on the sofa and slept for an hour]

18. What is your best memory you have with a friend?

Awkward-wording much? I have a lot of great friend memories. Let's go with my best friend in junior high/high school walking to my house after school one day and rolling around in hysterics shouting my middle name. ... I have no idea.

19. Do you have any peculiar interests that most people don’t know about?

I love reading about early church history, the history of the era of Jesus, and how Christianity got started.

20. What were your favorite childhood toys? Do you still have them?

I have one little stuffed pink mouse from my childhood, and my Raggedy Anne doll. Neither is in good shape. RI shouldn't be doused in perfume, for one thing.

21. Favorite baked good?

Oh, no, I'm not playing favorites here! I love them all.

22. If your best friend were here right now, what would you do with them (cannot list best friend as your romantic/sexual partner) ?

There would be giggling. That's all I'm saying.

23. Who would you love to play video games with?

Someone who sucks only slightly less than I do at them. Which excludes almost everyone I know under 40 (and a few over 40).

24. If you could visit any country, which one would it be?

I would like to see Egypt before I die.

25. Are there any friends you miss having around?

All of them.

Survery [sic]

(Found at Amy's)

Do you believe in destiny, fate or free will?

I believe we are all allowed to fuck up our lives in whatever what we want, but God has a longer view than us and knows what we're going to do. Hence, grace. I don't find that concept complicated, but if you do, here's the Party Line. I don't believe in karma as such, or fate.

If you could talk to one species of animal which would it be?

I would love to be able to speak some version of "canine" preferably "wolf," though "mutt" would be more useful.

If you had friends 'round, what DVDs would you have to watch?

If I have friends over, I'm unlikely to waste our time watching a movie.

Do you like vanilla or chocolate?

I definitely prefer vanilla. I can add whatever I want to it from that point: caramel, hot fudge, nothing. Whatever sounds good.

Are you a giver or a receiver?

Depends. I like receiving, but I'm improving at giving as well.

Do you have any enemies?

I don't think so, in the stalking/killing/kidnapping sense. I'm the only enemy I know of.

Are you scared of needles?

Not scared, just sort of grossed-out by seeing them being used on people. I'd make the worst phlebotomist.

How many piercings do you have--if any?

Just one in each earlobe.

Have you ever got majorly lost trying to get somewhere?

Yes. And prior to GPS, even. Drive around enough and you'll figure it out.

Do you say "Zee" or "Zed" to describe the letter Z?

I grew up with "zee" so "zee" it is. Besides, the alphabet song has to be changed if I start using "zed" and I'm too lazy for that.

What was the last thing to make you feel happy?

Dinner out last night with my sweetie was fun.

What was the last thing to make you feel angry?

About two weeks ago, work beat me up and spit me out into a puddle of vomit that I'm still working on cleaning up.

You are walking to work. There is a dog drowning in the canal on the side of the street. Your boss told you if you are late one more time you're fired. Do you save the dog?

I would certainly call 911, but I wouldn't be jumping into water to save a dog since that would just ensure both of us dying. I'd probably see if there was a way I could convince it to swim to the side or grab a branch of something. Being late for work is beside the point.
Then again, I haven't walked to work since I was in grad school. And you're assuming my usual tunnel vision would allow me to notice anything like this in the first place.

Are you the kind of friend you'd want to have as a friend yourself?

I'd probably be the most annoying friend to myself ever!! I think I'm a good friend, but there's chemistry in friendship, and I wouldn't want to be friends with someone just like myself.

Do you have any questions or queries about things you're just too scared or embarrassed to ask anyone about?

At my age, it's pretty damned hard to get embarrassed about anything. And honestly, for the things I might be embarrassed about, there's always Google. :-)

If you were a wrestler what would your stage name be?

I wouldn't, so the point is moot.

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.

Friday 5

(Link in meme-roll)
Small World

1. What’s the story about the time you learned that two people you knew separately also knew each other?

I am rarely surprised by this because I live in a fairly small town where everyone knows everyone, and I work at a public building. The weirdest thing I can think of right now is that my sister went to high school (in Colorado) with the husband of someone my husband used to work with here (the husband has since retired). Jean (my sister) told me about that as soon as we moved here, and Sonya (her friend) and I had lunch at least once.

2. What’s the story about the time you ran into someone you knew but didn’t recognize him or her because your acquaintance with the person was specific to a completely different setting?

This happens fairly often to me; I see people who work in the grocery store (or whatever) at work, and we both do the "Wait, I know you....?" stare till we work it out.

3. What’s the story about the time you lost something important and then found it after you’d already purchased its replacement?

Nail clippers. I have dozens of pairs of them.

4. What’s the story about the time you were tight with someone you normally didn’t hang out with because he or she was the only person you knew at some function?

Various conferences and meetings.

5. What’s the story about the time you learned that someone you thought you knew only recently was really someone you knew a long time ago too?

I don't think that has happened to me since I was a very young child.

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.

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
Self Esteem

1. How was your self esteem growing up?

In the toilet. I was never, ever good enough, even though I knew I was loved.

2. Do you ever have a hard time with morals?

Not in general. However, there's a LOT of gray areas, way more than I like to deal with.

3. Do you eat in bed? If yes, what?

Sure. Crackers. ;-) [I actually do, albeit infrequently.] Oh, and cough drops when I'm sick.

4. What was the last movie you hated and why?

I have come to strongly dislike the Star Wars movies.

5. Have you ever felt that you lost it all? If yes, explain.

I haven't ever actually lost everything, but there have been many times when the fear that I had fucked up so badly as to lose it all has been overwhelming.

6. Have you ever been stalked?

Not to my knowledge. Which means I haven't been, or I have been, but by someone extremely GOOD at stalking!

7. Do you believe in 'self help' for problems, or do you prefer therapy?

As if therapy means you don't do any work yourself? Uhm, yeah, NO! I start with looking for my own solutions and when (if) that doesn't work, I'll go talk to someone. I'm not averse to it, for sure.

8. What celebrity do you think should make a run for office?

None . Of . Them. Perish the thought!

9. Do you believe in happy endings? (We do. That why this is the last question!)

Happy endings are ones you make yourself. My happy ending might not be yours, but if it works for me, who are you to complain, right?

Curious as a Cat

(Link in meme-roll)

1) Create a new human culture and describe it as thoroughly as possible. Be sure to describe appearance, values, beliefs, etc.

Oh dear, I can't believe I asked people to work this hard! I think it would be wonderful if we had a culture that was based on actual accomplishment that was equally valued regardless of whether it was sports, arts, nursing, entertaining, or being supportive of any or all of the above. I think it would be awesome if everyone was accepted for who they were as long as they were doing the best they could at any given time, and not impinging on other people's turf or time. I would love a society where people really did care more about others than themselves, without denigrating themselves in the process; just that others would come first most of the time. And permanent press would not be used for clothing. Yuck.

2) Which animal makes the best pets? Defend why this is clearly the greatest option.

Generally, I'm a dog person. How can you not be charmed by an animal who will willingly snuggle with you given even the slightest encouragement, an animal that always wants you to love it, an animal that thinks you're God, an animal that forgets what a jerk you were earlier (like 10 minutes ago) and still love you even after you yell at it, or desert it for the whole day while you're at work.

3) What was the last thing you broke that you’re really upset about?

I'm pretty pissed that I lost something Beast gave me to keep safe while he was in the hospital. It's not anything expensive, just something important to him. I think I gave it to Sparky since I didn't have any pockets, but I don't remember for sure, and Sparky swears he doesn't have it. Grrrr.

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. 2010

This is the pub in the town near where my sister Jean is buried. We ate there the day after her funeral last August (almost exactly a year ago), and again this past spring. Good food. Beautiful setting, in a quintessential English village. And yes, it's legal to park facing traffic in England; either side of the street is fair game. Crazy place.

Curious as a Cat

(Link in meme-roll)

1) Have you felt like you've hit a brick wall anytime recently?

I seem to be stuck, unable to face the piles of (time-sensitive) materials on my desk here at home. Lack of motivation, and not wanting to face reality have met, explosively.

2) Where do you feel the safest?

In the basement. Why, yes, as a matter of fact, I do live in the Midwest; how did you know?

3) Have you ever been completely lost somewhere?

Not to the point of panic. I've always been confident that I can figure out, generally, where I am, even halfway up a cliff in Ouray, even after taking a wrong turn in the middle of Flatland, USA.

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

There was a show on TV, briefly, when I was a kid called Hot L Baltimore. I never 'got' the jokes/sense of the show, but I always wanted to because of the name. My question about this picture is why it's such a garish, hideous color of neon. Is that because someone monkeyed with the photo, or is there really such a color!?

Random Dozen

(Link in meme-roll)
[Inspired by Lost]

1. Have you ever been so lost that you were really afraid?

I can't think of a time like this, certainly not as an adult. I've been so lost that I was really irritated about being late for the meeting I was supposed to be at...but that was 10 years ago, and it turned out to be because Schedule Nazi gave me wrong/unclear directions.

2. Have you ever been to an island?

Yes. Yes, I have. Seems to me that I've been to more than one, in fact, though I'm only coming up with one right now.

3. Are you more of a thinker or feeler?

I lean toward thinking, but I have my feely moments.

4. Do you tend to see issues or situations in life as black and white or shades of gray?

I hope I'm gray--I try hard to be--but I suspect there are some areas in which I'm unable to see beyond the end of my nose.

5. If you were stuck on an island, what book would you hope to have with you (Let's pretend the Bible is already there, so you can't say that.)

A book on surviving on an island, presuming it's one of the proverbial deserted type. If not, I'll have a book of crosswords (and a writing utensil).

6. What are you most afraid of?

It sort of toggles between fear of failure and fear of being found out. Which are really the same thing, no?

7. Would you rather lose all of your old memories or never be able to make new ones?

I've never really thought about not being able to make new memories ... wow, bummer; sounds a lot like death. But I'd probably sacrifice those so I can keep my dad and mom and Ellen, and Sparky as a baby, in the memory bank.

8. Pretend I'm looking at a scrapbook page about you. There are three spaces for you to drop in individual pictures. What are those pictures of, and why did you select them?

The picture of Beast and me the day before we got married (asleep on my sister's couch), a picture of me the day Sparky was born, and a picture of me at work.

9. If you were re-doing your wedding, what would you do differently? (If you're single, tell me one thing you would do if you were planning a wedding OR huge party.)

I would elope. Fuck all the planning, the drama, the nightmare comments from assorted idiots...er, families members and friends. But, I'd keep the dress.

10. Tell me one thing you know/believe about forgiveness.

I'm not as good as it as I'd like to be.

11. You're waiting in a doctor's office. What is your favorite way to pass that time?

I do not even want to contemplate a doctor's office without reading material! I either have a book or I read the magazines (ugh) in the waiting room. Nothing worse than going to the eye doctor, having my eyes dilated, and not being able to see to read for 15 minutes or more before the exam. Major frustration and boredom.

12. If there were a clone of you in a parallel universe what is one way you hope she/he would be the same as you and one way you hope she/he would be better?

I'd like her to be thinner and less prone to SAD.

Friday 5

(Link in meme-roll)
Misses

1. What’s something you frequently misplace?

Nowadays, my mind. Less frequently than before, my temper.

2. For whom are you often mistaken?

Some random person, a sister of a friend, an employee at a former workplace, etc. No one exciting, that's for sure.

3. When were you last misinformed about something important?

Uhm, Tuesday. At work, though I suppose it was more "uninformed" rather than "misinformed."

4. Where in your home do you have a seemingly random collection of miscellanea?

{guffaw} Every-damn-where! My bookshelves are a nightmare, for instance, and the top of my dresser.

5. Upon meeting someone for the first time, what qualities in the other person are likely to cause you to misjudge him or her?

Tone of voice, relative cleanliness, emotions on display, age and clothes (to a certain extent), gender.

Manic Monday

(Link in blogroll)

Do you screen your phone calls?

Always. So, those of you who call me, now you know the truth! :-)

When was the last time you lost your temper?

I kind of fly off the handle semi-regularly, but I haven't gone to the "seeing red" extent for a long time, months probably.

When you're lost, do you ask for directions?

Well, I have a GPS now, and I use GoogleMaps extensively before I leave the house, so I don't really get lost too often anymore. But yes, I've been known to stop at a gas station for directions.

Curious as a Cat

(Link in blogroll)

1) How would you prove your moral fiber to someone?

I wouldn't even bother. I don't care if other people think I'm immoral. The only One who knows, knows.

2) If you wanted your death to have the maximum dramatic effect on people around you, how would you choose to die?

I think we've all had enough drama about death in my family lately, thanks. I'll just be WASP and die quietly without fuss.

3) If you could pick any one of your (childhood or current) stuffed animals to be, which one would you choose? Why?

I'm not sure I'd want to be one of the stuffed animals as a child--I was pretty hard on them! I think I'd like to be the lion in the spare bedroom right now. He just lies there and almost never gets bothered by anyone. Or Wolsey McGregor--he was loved, and shows every bit of it.

4) What is the thing of highest value that you have ever lost?

Beast lost my high school class ring while we were still dating; he had it on a chain around his neck. Still makes me sad, 23 years later. I wonder if it has ever dawned on him to see about getting a replacement.
The most valuable thing I've lost, however, would have to be my naivety.

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

It reminds me of the photos I've seen of the vaults under the streets of Paris, where there are centuries' worth of bones. This in turn reminds me of a book I just read, set in Europe, where a man's brother pays the cemetery extra money 20 years after the death of their father to keep the grave intact. Normally, after 20 years, bodies are exhumed so that the grave can be reused. Recycling, yo.
I'm being cremated, but only after doctors harvest whatever is left of me that's usable. I've considered the Body Farm, but that's a little gooshy even for me.

Happy All Hallow's Eve and All Saints' Day to everyone!

Thursday Threesome

(Link at left)
::Calculators may not be Used::

Onesome: Calculators-- and such: are you good with numbers? Do you have a calculator built in? ...or does the presence of a second column demand some help from something electronic?

I'm pretty good with math, as long as I'm not trying to do it while distracted, or in a hurry.

Twosome: may not be-- where you left them. Hmmm... What have you misplaced lately? You know: the item you are flat positive you left in one spot but somehow mysteriously migrated to another!

Knock wood, I can't think of anything I've misplaced recently that has stayed misplaced. I couldn't find a library book a couple of weeks ago, but it turned up on the bookshelf in the dining room where I dumped a bunch of books while clearing the kitchen counter.

Threesome: Used-- cars? When you buy, do you buy new? ...or do you go for those with a few thousand miles on them?

We bought the Honda new; we bought the truck used. I'm kinda liking the used concept (it was only a year or so old when we bought it). New car buying is the pits. The whole concept gives me a stomachache.

Friday 5

(Link at left)

1. Who's your favorite of Looney Tunes characters?

That's hard. Daffy Duck? Roadrunner? Bugs? No, not Bugs...probably the Roadrunner, though I like Foghorn Leghorn, too.

2. What have you done too much of lately?

I have been mega-cranky lately. Must stop that.

3. When did you last play cards?

Ironically, I got out a deck of cards this week. Maybe Monday? Beast had the laptop for bills and I didn't want to read, so I went back to an old standby for me: solitaire.
Played a game? That would be several months ago, don't remember when.

4. Where were your keys the last time you couldn’t find them?

On the kitchen counter. Right where I'd dropped them.

5. Why didn’t you do today everything you were supposed to?

It's not even noon yet!! But so far, the laptop has wigged out (actually, it's the power cord, for the second time in a month), and the computer I'm using is much slower so that everything I was going to do online is taking extra time. I'm spoiled.

Manic Monday

(Link at left)

Quick! Off the top of your head list 4 words to describe you today, just as you are right now. (It could be thinking, feeling, looking, etc.- use your imagination.)

Eyesore, cold-footed, tired, itchy.

If you had an extra hour in your day today what would you do?

Probably get something, anything, accomplished!

When is the last time you got lost and what happened?

We weren't really lost in York, PA, earlier this month: our Garmin eventually led us to our hotel. BUT, it took us through some really shady areas of town. And that wasn't much fun.
Honestly, the last time I was really lost was last summer when we went to D'Iberville and couldn't find the campsite where we were staying. That was quite annoying.