Sunday Stealing (x2)

(Link in meme-roll)

10 Questions with Nigel

1. What's your life's motto?

I don't know that I have a motto. The most frequent life advice I give is "Don't be a dick" but I don't know that that's a motto. Lately, it feels like I should be following the "Fight for your own stuff" but I hate that too.

2. Where were you living 13 years ago?

Right here. Different furniture, same house. Apparently, I had just finished entering all my reading history into GoodReads (at least the previous 20 years' worth), and have since added 2500 books. A  LOT of those are from childhood and generally before I started actively keeping track.

3. Is anyone jealous of you?

How in the world would I know? Right now, I very much doubt anyone wants to be in my shoes. I certainly don't.

4. Where were you when you heard about the 9/11 terror attacks?

Beast called me at church where I was doing some volunteer work, alone in the building, to tell me to go home and turn on the news. The first building fell while I was on the way--I had newsradio on--and I nearly got T-boned by someone else racing home. Then our new pastor and wife came over because they didn't have their TV (cable, blah blah) set up and we all gaped, and Pastor's Wife kept saying she needed to go to the grocery store to 'stock up.'

5. Do you consider yourself kind?

I try. Beast told me one time that he thought I was, and I treasure that comment.

6. Can you change your car's oil?

I mean, I probably could, but there's no way I'm starting this project at age 61 when Bob does it just fine and checks out all the other important things while he's in there.

7. What's the last thing you heard about your first love?

My actual IRL "first love" or my first crush? lol David Cassidy has been dead for 8 years, and my first boyfriend ... I haven't checked facebook recently. I'm friends with his brother though, so I presume I'd hear if something happened to 'boyfriend.'

8. Have you ever been burned by love?

Are we comparing scars? I won't win any contests, but I have been in therapy for a decade-and-a-half. 

9. What was the last thing you paid for with cash?

What is this 'cash' concept of which you speak?? 
Actually, I always pay the cleaning crew at the house in cash, so Thursday.

10. Do you hug your friends?

If they want me to. I always want to hug people, but one of my coworkers has become EXTREMELY germophobic and touch-phobic, so I try to keep my hands strictly to myself around her. Otherwise, I tend to tap people's shoulders or forearms for their attention if I don't want to verbally interrupt them. So yeah. I got two hugs in 5 minutes from people at work Friday.

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)

I'll Be Loving You (Forever) – 1989

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Nope. I'm not a fan of his. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)

Saturday 9: Lady of Spain (1952)

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

1) The lyrics refer to serenading "caballeros," which is Spanish for "gentlemen." Can you say anything to us in Spanish this morning?

Hola, amigos y amigas. Espero que estén bien y felices. He extrañado hacer estos memes.

2) Eddie Fisher sings that he's loved this lady since he first saw her. Do you believe in love at first sight?

I believe it happens. I can say that it's never happened to me, not in a romantic way. I've fallen in love at first sight with some babies, though.

3) He was drafted and served a year in Korea. Then he spent the rest of his active duty period as vocalist for the Army Band, performing on military bases. (He was still technically PFC Edwin Fisher when he recorded this.) Did you ever play with a band? If so, what instrument?

I was in band (class) for 6 years in junior high and high school. I made it one year in college before I gave up. Play flute, and piccolo, and was first chair most of the time.

4) From 1953 to 1957, Eddie hosted Coke Time, a TV variety show sponsored by Coca Cola. What's your soft drink of choice?

Diet Dr. Pepper. Some things never change: I'm drinking a can of it right now. 😁

5) Though Coke Time is mostly forgotten today, Eddie was nominated for two Emmy Awards and won a Golden Globe for his work on the show. Have you ever taken home a trophy?

I don't think so, not one of my own, alone. I haven't ever done anything that involved trophies as a solo.

6) Today Eddie Fisher may be best known as the father of Carrie Fisher. She made more than 50 movies and wrote 8 books. Are you more familiar with her as an actress or author?

Actress. Despite my career, she will always be more Leia than writer.

7) In 1952, when this song was popular, hamburger meat sold for just 53¢/lb. Is there any beef in your refrigerator right now?

I think I've got some pre-made meals with ground beef in them. If not, there's probably some in the freezer in case I ever get enough energy to cook.

8) Also in 1952, Mr. Potato Head became the first toy to be advertised on TV. What recent TV commercial comes to mind?

I pretty much only watch TV at Beast's these days, and we are watching football, racing, or car shows. During the latter, I'm most annoyed with the Medicare (et al.) ads from all the TV stars of my childhood.

9) Random question: If you could live within any TV show ever, which would you choose?

Facts of Life. Or one of the CSI shows, in the lab.

Saturday 9 x 2

(Link in meme-roll) 

Why Did I Choose You? (1965) 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Aunt Viv. Darren Stevens.

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
Judy at Carnegie Hall (1961)

Song #1: "When You're Smiling." What made you smile this week?

I'm listening to "The Dollop" live in Chicago from last March, which is making me laugh  right now about taking the el to Cleveland.

Song #2: "Almost Like Being in Love." We've all had many crushes, but love is rare. How many times have you fallen in love?

I've fallen in love romantically only a couple of times, but I've fallen in love with every single baby I've ever met. That's a lot.

Song #3: "This Can't Be Love." This Rodgers and Hart song was introduced in the play, The Boys from Syracuse. Syracuse is the county seat of Onondaga County, NY. What county do you hail from?

I was born in Denver County, because the hospital was literally a block from the city boundary.

Song #4: "Do It Again." What's something you'd do again, if only you had the time or money? (A book you'd like to reread, a recipe or pattern you'd like to make again, a vacation destination you'd like to revisit, etc.)

I would love to go back to Russia, this time in the summer or fall, but that is not likely to happen. Too bad; St. Petersburg is lovely.

Song #5: "You Go to My Head." Judy forgets the lyrics, but gamely keeps going. Tell us about a recent moment when you chose to keep going, no matter what.

Every day, every minute. Today was a great example of being very intentional about not driving into a tree on the way back from the nursing home.

Song #6: "Alone Together." Is anyone there with you as you answer these questions, or are you alone?

It's me, the Dollop guys, and any vermin who have moved in for the winter.

Song #7: "Who Cares?" This song was written by brothers George and Ira Gershwin. They had a lesser known brother, stockbroker Arthur. Are you more creative and artistic, like George and Ira? Or more analytical and methodical, like Arthur?

I lean toward Arthur, but part of my job is to think creatively, so... I do that too.

Song #8: "Puttin' on the Ritz." Judy sings that The Ritz is the place in New York "where fashion sits." If we wanted to see everyone "all gussied up" in your town, where would we go?

How in God's green hell would I know? It is not likely to be the library, Dollar General, or the nursing home, where I hang out! :)

Song #9: "How Long Has This Been Going On?" Judy sings about discovering how glorious romance can be. Have you made any new discoveries lately? It doesn't have to be as groundbreaking as Judy's. A new podcast or a faster route to work counts, too.

I just found a new true-crime-slash-comedy podcast called Martinis & Murder yesterday. So far it's good. Also Go Fact Yourself! which is a fun quiz-show podcast. And I'm currently in the middle of one of the Charley Davidson books about to read The Good Chapter. (If you've read her series, you know which chapter I mean...ahem).

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
On and On (1977)
Unfamiliar with this week's song. Hear it here.

1) This song describes the plight of "poor ol' Jimmy," who caught his girlfriend kissing someone else. Have you ever spied on a romantic partner?

Not really. I mean, what's the point? If a guy's gonna cheat, I don't need to watch. If he's not going to cheat there's no point in getting myself all worked up over nothing.

2) In this song, Stephen Bishop sings that he "smiles when he feels like dying." When did you recently put on a happy face, even though you really weren't all that happy?

Oh jeez. That describes my normal minute-by-minute life in public. Specifically, I guess it would be talking to Beast earlier this afternoon. It was a good conversation, but he was quite befuddled if more resigned than he normally is.

3) Stephen Bishop always wanted to be a musician, and as a child he began playing the clarinet. Did you take lessons -- dance, art, music -- as a child? If yes, did you take them because you enjoyed them, or because your parents made you take them?

I took piano as a kid, elementary-school age. I took up flute in 7th grade. Piano was Mom's idea; flute was mine, influenced by my friend who also played flute. I would have loved to take dance, but it just wasn't in the family "plan."

4) When he was 12, inspired by The Beatles on The Ed Sullivan Show, he switched to the guitar and began writing songs. Tell us about someone or something that influenced your career path.

My older sister Jean was a librarian. She and my brother and I all worked as pages at our local public library as teens, and once I realized college wasn't going to last forever, I turned to the option of grad school and thus a career was born. Since then, one of my college roommates and my oldest niece have followed me into the field. I've occasionally nudged Sparky toward it too, but I think he's just heard too many stories from me.

5) Stephen Bishop attended Will C. Crawford High School in San Diego. This school requires students complete 20 hours of community service every year. Tell us about an organization, cause or campaign you volunteered for, either as a student or an adult.

I have worked with Habitat for Humanity, several urban renewal organizations (in several cities) and PDA. There's also P.E.O. and I guess I should include YouthWorks. Does my library count? lol

6) In 1977, when this song was popular, Seattle Slew won racing's Triple Crown. Sam's mother has always been afraid of horses. Is there an animal you're uncomfortable with?

I am a bit in awe of horses simply because they're so much bigger than me and have simply enormous teeth. I'm not afraid of them, just wary. And also bulls. I have no desire to piss off anything with horns.

7) Also in 1977, moviegoers waited in line for hours to see Star Wars. What's the longest line you waited in recently?

I was at the local SSA office yesterday. I gave up; those around me had been waiting over an hour and I was on my lunch break at work. Not a real line, just a room full of soullessness.

8) The mini-series Roots first aired in 1977. Today Americans are spending more time and money than ever to research ancestry. How far back can you trace your family tree?

My mom got back to the 18th century on her side. My dad always joked that we shouldn't look too close at his side for fear of finding horse thieves or murderers.

9) Random question: It's often said that nobody's perfect. How about you? What quality keeps you from being perfect?

Laziness kind of sums it up. It's the root of all the evil in my life.

I can't tell you how hearing this song took me right back to junior high! So weird...

Sunday Stealing x2

(Link in meme-roll)
Tea and Q&A

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

7. What color is your bathroom?

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

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

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

9. What is your least favorite thing to cook?

Anything complicated and fussy.

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

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

11. What are three things on your bucket list?

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

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

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

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

The gift of my absence.

14. What is your favorite candy?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

From Smellyann

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

11. Does love = sex?

Not usually.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
My Funny Valentine (1991)
Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) In this song, Ms. Kitt sings that her lover is her favorite work of art. Tell us about a piece of artwork you can see from where you're sitting now. (Yes, that crayon drawing created by your 5-year-old nephew counts.)

It's actually super-dark in the corners of the room right night, so I can only barely see the papyrus my college roommate brought back from Egypt 34 years ago. I'm sure she paid approximately one dime for it, but we had it and a matching one my inlaws had matted & framed a few years ago.

2) She asks him to not change his hair. When will you next find yourself in the stylist's chair?

I haven't had a haircut since early September, so I should probably get that remedied. My stylist is going to want to cut my hair shorter though, so there'll be an argument. "Argument" is too harsh; there'll be a discussion.

3) Ms. Kitt always wanted to be a performer and attended the New York School of Performing Arts (aka the "Fame" school). Think back to your high school self. In what ways would you be surprised by how your life turned out?

I had no specific expectations for what my adult life would look like. I think it's turned out more or less the way I assumed it would.

4) Ms. Kitt took over the role of Catwoman on TV's Batman. Name another Batman villain.

Gotta go with The Penguin.

5) Ms. Kitt enjoyed tremendous success performing in Parisian nightclubs. Have you ever been to Paris?

Nope. Not really all that interested.

This is the last Saturday 9 before Valentine's Day and so this morning we shall focus on the upcoming holiday.6) The holiday is also known as The Feast of St. Valentine. Do you have a special meal planned for next Wednesday?

Oh, you're funny as hell. No. I work 5-9 that day, so no fun meals for me that day. And very likely there will be no Valentines either.

7) The phrase "wear your heart on your sleeve" began in medieval times. On Valentine's Day, men would celebrate the holiday by displaying their lady love's name on their sleeves. If you were going to adopt this custom, whose name would you wear?

Beast, of course.

8) Women buy and send more Valentines than men do. What's the last greeting card you received?

I got a couple of cards ("Hi, we love you!" non-Valentines) yesterday...so don't feel so bad for me regarding the lack of cards next week. ;-)

9) Men buy and send more roses at Valentine's Day than women do. What's your favorite flower?

Heirloom roses, from the year. This year, I might just go buy myself some flowers. I'm in need of a reminder than winter will end eventually.

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
Conversation Starters

1. What are some small things that make your day better?

Absurdity. Laughing about silly things. When you realize you're on a roll/in the zone. Hugs. Getting a big, looming project finished.

2. What shows are you into?

I mostly only watch reruns of M*A*S*H and Criminal Minds, and (when I remember) Live PD these days. Most of my sitting-around time is currently spent on listening to podcasts. I'm afraid I've become rather addicted.

3. What TV channel doesn’t exist but really should?

You mean we haven't covered all the aspects of the world yet? Because it certainly feels like, at it's all boring.

4. Who has impressed you most with what they’ve accomplished?

Lots and lots of people. Frankly, most people I know. I would say that anyone over the age of 50 with a sense of humor, and anyone over the age of 75 who is kind and not 100% self-involved; those people are amazing.

5. What age do you wish you could permanently be?

8 was good. Can I add just a dash more self-confidence to me at that age, though?

6. What TV show or movie do you refuse to watch?

I can't get through A Clockwork Orange; I can't even get through the first 10 minutes. Also ANY horror movie. Just NOPE.

7. What is something that is considered a luxury, but you don’t think you could live without?

Seriously, literally, could not live without? I don't actually have anything luxurious that I couldn't, indeed haven't, lived without. Also, who is doing the considering here? I mean, I see a lot of homeless people at work would probably would love to have my "luxurious" furnace currently warming my house to a temperature that means I don't have to worry about frostbite on my naked hands.

8. What’s your claim to fame?

Speaking too soon.

9. What’s something you like to do the old-fashioned way?

The age I'm at now, I guess mashing potatoes with an electric mixer is "old-fashioned" right? Otherwise, I guess it's probably something like not buying things on credit.

10. What’s your favorite genre of book or movie?

Mysteries. I love me some mysteries. Give me a good mysterious dead body with a clever and interesting detective in the vicinity, and I'm in.

11. How often do you people-watch?

Every day. People are fascinating. There's no getting around that fact.

12. What have you only recently formed an opinion about?

My part in furthering racism. I'd like to say it's nothing to do with me, but I gotta get real: I've benefited from the ingrained unfairness of our current system, at least as much as it has harmed me.

13. What are you interested in that most people haven’t heard of?

Very early Christian history, like the years between Jesus' birth and the first time any of the New Testament was actually written down.

14. What’s the farthest you’ve ever been from home?

Beijing.

15. What is the most heartwarming thing you’ve ever seen?

On a regular basis, interactions between dogs and their human family/ies make my heart happy.

16. What is the most annoying question that people ask you?

At work: "I'm looking for a book...." (first of all, it's not a question; second of all, I am surrounded by 154,000 of them so WTF really?)
Outside of work: "How's Beast?" from people who are within half an hour of where he's living and haven't bothered to visit him in the past 6 weeks.

17. What could you give a 40-minute presentation on with absolutely no preparation?

Assorted podcasts, the Dewey Decimal system, MARC cataloging rules, the medical/insurance/healthcare situation in our country, how awesome kids are (and by kids, I mean anyone my son's age and younger).

18. If you were dictator of a small island nation, what crazy dictator stuff would you do?

I'd probably enforce a Drop Everything And Read period for the entire population every day for like at least 20 minutes. Quiet, and reading, everyday. Fines if you don't do it. I could set it up like the IRS, only in reverse: you can earn credits for reading more regularly, and trade them in for coffee and chocolate.

19. What is something you think everyone should do at least once in their lives?

As an adult, be completely dependent on someone else (preferably someone you love who loves you) for at least 3-4 days. And the obverse: have another adult be completely dependent on YOU for some period of time. Both are deeply moving and eye-opening experiences.

LURRVVEE

You Have Been in Love a Few Times

You know all about love firsthand. You've experienced it more than once, and you may be in love right now. Your heart is quite open, and you have few barriers when it comes to falling in love. You just let yourself fall. You have also experienced your fair share of heartbreak, but you know that just comes with the territory. You never like healing a broken heart. However, you know that your heart can love again no matter what. It's just a question of time.

Have You Ever Been in Love?

Well, yes, as a matter of fact.

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
 I Will Never Let You Down (2017)
... because Smellyann recommended Fastball
Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) Fastball is a trio from Austin, Texas. Austin is the capital of Texas. When you were in school, did you have to memorize the state capitals?

I didn't have to, but I did have them memorized by the time I was in 2nd grade. I still know most of 'em. It comes in handy periodically.

2) Have you ever visited your state's capital?

Yep. I was there in town about 18 months ago, and I saw the Capitol itself 19 years ago. I'm not going back till there are some grownups running the state. We've had nothing but NOTHING since our current governor was elected. The state is in SERIOUS financial trouble, and they are just diddling around, but getting paid. That needs to stop.

3) Fastball played dates throughout Canada this past spring. When did you last leave the US of A?

Last September we were in the U.K. for a family wedding.

4) Tony Scalzo is a founding member of Fastball. He's the singer in the video for this song, and that's his wife, Jennifer, playing the organizer of the speed-dating event. Have you ever gotten a job because you knew somebody?

That's kind of how I got the job I have now. Ah, the good old days of not posting jobs....never gonna happen nowadays. [insert current workplace griping and gossip here]

5) In this pitch to a perspective lover, he admits he doesn't have much money. Last time you went to the ATM, how much did you withdraw?

I always get $300. I use cash at Aldi's and most fast-food places, as well as haircuts and Walgreen's, etc., so I go through it in a couple of weeks.

6) He sings that at times, his mind is hazy. Do you have a good memory for names?

I'm great with names! I totally SUCK at faces and at matching names with the right faces. It's pathetic.

7) Fastball guitarist Miles Zuniga admits that he once had a crush on Carrie Fisher (aka Princess Leia). Tell us about one of your one-sided love affairs, either with a celebrity or someone you knew in real life.

Oh, I had it BAD for Andy Gibb back in the day (c. 1978). Giant poster of him shirtless on my wall. Remember this was the era of super-tight pants, too, so I'm actually surprised in hindsight at my parents' forbearance. It really was heartbreaking when he died, less than 10 years later.

8) Fastball's drummer Joey Shuffield is partial to drums from Pork Pie Percussion. This company was started by Bill Detamore, who began making drums as a hobby. Do you have any hobbies that, under the right circumstances, could make you money?

Nope. Well, I mean, I suppose if I was really motivated and needy, I could make money blogging or Facebooking, or reading (?), but then I'm not sure it would be fun anymore at that point.

9) The fast ball is the most common pitch in major league baseball. Now that the MLB season is past the halfway mark, how is your baseball team doing?

I don't have "a team." And shouldn't baseball season end (and start, for that matter), in warm temperatures by the way?? OK, that's just a tiny chip from the iceberg of disdain I feel about baseball. (Sorry, Gal--but fans are not part of the disdain, so ...)

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
The Greenish Questions

1. What is your current obsession?

Skittles. I've been pigging out on them for a couple of weeks, much to my scale's regret.

2. What’s your go-to coffee place?

I don't drink coffee.

3. Who was the last person that you hugged?

Beast.

4. Do you nap a lot?

Heh, yeah. As often as possible.

5. Tonight, what’s for dinner?

I hate you. This is what I'm trying to avoid thinking about right now. We may be looking at grilled cheese or waffles at this point.

6. What was the last thing that you bought?

Garage light bulbs, propane for the grill, and a toilet seat. Living the big life, eh?

7. What is your favorite weather?

Hot and dry, i.e. zero humidity.

8. Tell us something about one blogger who you think will play this week?

There are days, reading her blog, when I'm fairy certain that Kwizgiver and I are living alternate versions of each other's lives. If we looked more like each other, it would be fun to do twin-switch thing for a few days. :D

9. If you were given a free house that was full furnished, where in the world would you like it to be?

Normally, I would say Ouray, but with the health care situation in my family and this country, I'm going to say Hay-on-Wye on the Welsh/English border.

10. Name three things that you could not live without.

My prescription meds, my glasses, my car.

11. What would you like in your hands right now?

I can't think of a thing.

12. What’s one of your guilty pleasures?

Pottering around mindlessly online.

13. What would you change or eliminate about yourself?

I would learn some self-control over food!

14. As a child, what type of career did you want?

I wanted to be a grocery store checker because of the old cash register buttons ... Clearly, I didn't really get out much.

15. What are you missing right now?

Someone to clean and cook for me.

16. What are you currently reading?

Burley Cross Postbox Theft, by Nicola Barker and Christmas Days, by Jeanette Winterson, the latter on my Nook. That's rather a low count for me.

17. What do you fear the most?

Pain.

18. What’s the best movie that you’ve seen recently?

We saw Wonder Woman last week. It was pretty good (to be read deadpan).

19. What’s your favorite book from the past year?

The Home for Wayward Clocks, by Kathie Giorgio and All Our Wrong Todays, Elan Mastai were each good for very different reasons.

20. Is there a comfort food from your childhood that you still enjoy?

White bread and Smarties. Not together (yuck) but individually. I don't buy either very often. Oh, and Mom's oatmeal cookies, but I don't have her recipe, so finding cookies that live up to this is difficult.

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
The Ginormous Questions

1. Are you single?

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

2. Are your parents still married?

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

3. Are you in love?

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

4. Do you believe in love at first sight?

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

5. Who ended your last relationship?

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

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

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

7. Have you ever broken someone’s heart?

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

8. Have you ever had a secret admirer?

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

9. Prefer love or lust?

Prefer love.

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

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

11. Wild night out or romantic night in?

Can't I just take a nap?

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

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

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

Yeah.

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

Those 10 or so people I mentioned above.

15. Ever wanted to disappear?

This feeling comes and goes a bit like the tide.

16. First attraction: Smile or eyes?

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

17. Prefer intelligence or attraction?

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

18. Last phone call you received?

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

19. Last thing you drank?

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

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

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

21. Do you and your family get along?

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

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

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

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

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

24. Do you trust all your friends?

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

25. Who knows the most about you?

Beast, these days.

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
The Q & A Questions

1. where is your significant other?

About 10 feet away from me in his recliner eating M&Ms, watching golf, and reading the news. Probably throwing heat into his back as well. He's quite the multitasker, my Beastie.

2. your favorite thing?

WHERE is it? I'm not even sure I HAVE a favorite thing that can be located. OK, I kind of OD'd on my mom's day gift Friday: The Hamilton Mixtape. I've got all the songs buzzing around my head in confusion this weekend. The actual CD is currently in the car.

3. your dream last night?

I don't remember anything from last night. Of late, Beast is the one having all the weird dreams. Mine have been unmemorable, literally.

4. your goal?

I don't "do" goals.

5. your hobby?

Reading. Although of late, I've been doing more napping and noodling on the Internet.

6. where do you want to be in 6 years?

I'd like to be right here. I have a feeling, however, that we'll need to move to a flat house (i.e. a ranch) in that time frame because of Beast's health issues. We'll see. It's not something I want to do, certainly.

7. where were you last night?

I was here on the sofa till about 8:30 when we went to bed.

8. what you're not?

I'm not a lot of things: short, stupid, male, African... In fact, I'm probably more NOT than AM.

9. one of your wish list items?

I had to go look at my wish list on Amazon. I'll go with this: Cartier Zeste de Soleil Eau de Toilette Spray

10. your pet?

Pinto Bean the guinea pig is what we have left. How will I answer this question when he's gone??

11. missing someone?

I was seriously missing Dad this morning at church. We sang a song that never fails to remind me of him.

12. your car?

Is blue.

13. something you're not wearing?

Sox.

14. love someone?

Do I? Yes.

15. when is the last time you laughed?

About 5 minutes ago when our neighbor kid came to the door and peered in. He was finishing up mowing and he'd already come to the door about 4 times today, so I laughed and told him, "Just come in; you basically live here now."

16. last time you cried?

Friday? Definitely Thursday. No Kleenex in the ER, either--I was handed a stack of gauze pads.

17. favorite past time?

Sleep.

18. are you a hater or a lover?

I'm working hard on removing hate from the equation, so the default is lover. Truthfully, I'm aiming more at "don't care, don't matter."

19. any vices?

Yeah, I'm not mastering this "eating healthy" thing at all.

20. favorite questions blog other than Sunday Stealing?

Saturday 9, Friday 5, Unconscious Mutterings. There are some weekday ones I'd like to do, but I just do not have the energy/time for them. Many of my favorites are listed in the Memeroll to the right.

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
The Chicago Crazy Questions

1) What was your dream growing up?

I don't remember really having "plans" or hopes for specific adult things aside from not having to answer to people (ha ha ha -- what a joke!). I do remember a couple of really weird, scary literal dreams, though.

2) What talent do you wish you had?

I wish I had more sticktuitiveness. I do think some people are innately better at seeing things through.

3) If I bought you a drink what would it be?

Long Island Iced Tea. Or Stoli rocks, lime twist.

4) What was the last book you read?

The last one I finished was Atlas Obscura. If you're an armchair adventurer, I recommend it.

5) Worst Habit?

Laziness.

6) If you saw me walking down the street would you offer me a ride?

If I saw you, Bud, I would. However, I generally don't stop for people walking.

7) What is your favorite sport?

To watch: football. To play: uh.... bocce?

8) What would you do if you were stuck in an elevator with me?

Call for help and then try not to think about whether I have to pee.

9) Worst thing to ever happen to you?

I try not to dwell on the tragedies of life. What I consider "worst" might be other people's pretty good days.

10) Tell me one weird fact about you.

I think if you read my blog, you will (or have) become abundantly aware of just how weird I am.

11) What if I showed up at your house unexpectedly?

I would be mortified if someone showed up today. The place is a pit, a sty, and I just can't keep up. But, I'd welcome you in and clear a place for you to sit a spell.

12) If you could change one thing about how you look, what would it be?

I would LOVE to be half my weight, literally. I have now achieved double my weight in my 20s. :'(

13) Would you be my crime partner or my conscience?

Depends on what we're doing, but I'm more likely to be the chicken-shit overly-conscientious one.

14) Ever been arrested?

Nope. Just a couple of traffic tickets.

15) If you won $10,000 today, what would you do with it?

Pay down the mortgage.

16) Favorite thing to do in your spare time?

This. And read.

17) Biggest pet peeve?

Mean, nasty people.

18) In one word, how would you describe yourself?

Empathetic.

19) Do you believe in/appreciate romance?

Meh.

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
The Unknown Author Questions

1. if someone wanted to really understand you, what would they read, watch, and listen to?

You'd have to read a lot of history, mysteries (everything but cozies) and "good" lit. You'd have to watch lots of (true and fictional) crime shows, and medical docs. I listen to almost everything. That one's pretty easy.

2. have you ever found a blogger who thinks just like you? if so, who?

Kwizgiver and I seem to be on the same wavelength fairly often. Except on football teams and coffee. ;-)

3. list your fandoms and one character from each that you identify with.

I don't really do fandoms. I like ST and my favorite characters of those series I've seriously watched are Bones, Picard, Kira, and Janeway.

4. do you like your name? is there another name you think would fit you better?

My name is good. At this point, having to switch to listening for another one would be difficult.

5. do you think of yourself as a human being or a human doing? do you identify yourself by the things you do?

Hah. I'm a human. I don't worry about doing and being unless it's a Frank Sinatra tune (do-be-do-be-do).

6. are you religious/spiritual?

I'm churchy. I think we're all spiritual beings, but not everyone connects with that part of them often.

7. do you care about your ethnicity?

Do I care?? I'm aware of it. I don't spend a lot of time dwelling on changing it.

8. what musical artists have you most felt connected to over your lifetime?

U2, Melissa Etheridge, Howard Jones, Annie Lennox, Alison Moyet....

9. are you an artist?

I can do a mean stick figure, and lots of abstract stuff. I don't think I'm overly artistic in the traditional sense, however.

10. do you have a creed?

Lately, it's "don't be a dick."

11. describe your ideal day.

I started to write some stuff, but really I've found that good days are what you make of them, and being open to surprises is key.

12. dog person or cat person?

I'm definitely a dog person. But since I'm allergic to both cats and dogs, it's not in the cards.

13. inside or outdoors?

I've become mostly an indoor person. Allergies.

14. are you a musician?

Amateur only.

15. five most influential books over your lifetime.

In no particular order: The Bible. Traveling Mercies (Anne Lamott). A Marginal Jew, v. 1 (John Meier). The Laura books. Nicholas & Alexandra (Robert Massie). There are dozens of others.

16. if you’d grown up in a different environment, do you think you’d have turned out the same?

No I do not think so. Everything that has happened in my life has made me who I am. Change one thing and the whole Jenga collapses.

17. would you say your tumblr is a fair representation of the “real you”?

I don't do Tumblr--though, come to think of it, I guess I have one that I seriously have never used--but this blog gives you a decent idea of what goes on in my head.

18. what’s your patronus?

I think J.K. Rowling's site told me it was a rodent of some kind. Squirrel maybe? Or ferret? Seems fitting.

19. which Harry Potter house would you be in? or are you a muggle?

Being an American, I'd be a no-maj not a muggle, but I'm more or less solidly Hufflepuff.

20. would you rather be in Middle Earth, Narnia, Hogwarts, or somewhere else?

It would be fun to visit Hogwarts, but overall, I like here best.

21. do you love easily?

I don't even know for sure what this means. I probably do, but it doesn't seem "easy" to me. Or hard. It just seems like me.

22. list the top five things you spend the most time doing, in order.

Sleeping. Worrying/Feeling guilty. Working. Doing online stuff (Facebook, this, email, etc.). Reading.

23. how often would you want to see your family every year?

I see some family member or other 4-6 times a year, usually in packs, like coyotes. LOL There have been years of my life when no one lived nearby when I only saw family once or twice a year. It's not that I don't like them, but short visits go a long way for me. And there isn't anyone less than an hour away, and some are an 8-hour plane trip and 4-hour drive away.

24. have you ever felt like you had a “mind-meld” with someone?

Beast and I occasionally feel that way. We've known each other for 35 years, so we have but to look at each other sometimes to know what the other person is thinking.

25. could you live as a hermit?

Not permanently. There are days, even a few weeks, when it sounds positively heavenly, but I need people to talk to at some point.

26. how would you describe your gender/sexuality?

I'm cis-gendered female.

27. do you feel like your outside appearance is a fair representation of the “real you”?

Nope. I'm absolutely not this old, nor is the real me this fat.

28. on a scale from 1 to 10, how hard is it for someone to get under your skin?

Depends on who and what they're trying on. I'm probably an 8 in public/with the public, and maybe a 5 with people I know and care about.

29. three songs that you connect with right now.

These are the three that popped into my mind first: "You Are the Sunshine of My Life" (Stevie Wonder)--no clue why, today, when it's cold, windy and cloudy outside. "Short People" (Randy Newman)--because one of the drivers in the race is named Newman. "Amazing Grace"--because it's always floating near the top.

30. pick one of your favorite quotes.

“You think your pain and your heartbreak are unprecedented in the history of the world, but then you read. It was books that taught me that the things that tormented me most were the very things that connected me with all the people who were alive, who had ever been alive.” ―James Baldwin

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
The Money Time Questions

1. What are five passions that you have? (If you have less than five, tell us where you do have an interest.)

Literacy, history, kids, reading, learning.

2. List up to ten random facts about yourself.

1. I have hazel eyes.
2. My feet are currently freezing.
3. My house currently smells like smoke and burnt food.
4. Those last two are connected: I'm burn-cleaning the oven. It stinks and it's not really warm enough to have every door and window open.
5. There's a nap in my immediate future.
6. I ate a whole package of Twizzlers yesterday.
7. My eyesight is lousy.
8. These questions make my mind go blank, so it's taking me bloody-forever to do this. Ugh.
9. I need to get the oil in my car changed this week.
10. My feet are still cold.

3. List five people (personal, historic, living or dead) who have had a major impact on your life or the way you think.

Jesus, my parents (that's one, right?), Corrie ten Boom, Martin Luther King, Jr., and Les (my pastor as a kid).

4. List 5 things you'd tell your 15 year-old self, if you could.

1. Stand up for yourself.
2. Listen to your conscience.
3. No one likes a know-it-all.
4. Your instincts are good: if you think someone is lying to you, the probably are.
5. Not everything is your fault.

5. What is a major strength that you have? (You can list more than one. Staying with our no rules approach.)

I read people pretty well.

6. What is a major weakness that you have? (You can list more than one. STILL staying with our no rules approach.)

I second-guess myself.

7. Describe the family dynamic of your childhood versus your family dynamic now.

I'm the adult child of an adult child of an alcoholic. My childhood, aside from the floating anger from one parent, was pretty good because my parents worked hard to make it so. Life today is, maybe, becoming pretty good because my alcoholic husband is not currently drinking.

8. What popular notion do you feel that the world has most wrong?

That any of us is all the center of the universe.

9. Name three things that always cheers you up when you are down.

Babies' giggles, music, reading.

10. Name three things would you like to be remembered for?

Loving kids, being a good worker, making killer mac'n'cheese.

Saturday 9

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Romance? Maybe. Love? Never.

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

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

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

"Love Me Do"

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

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

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

Right.

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

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

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

Saturday 9:

(Link in meme-roll)
Love Yourself (2015)
Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) In this song, Justin sings that he doesn't like to admit he's wrong. When did you most recently cop to a mistake?

Thursday at work comes to mind. I got carpetted for forgetting a doctor's appt. and not telling the scheduling person. I apologized in the email I sent the night before, and I "abjectly" apologized again the next day. I was wrong about a lot of stuff this week. Oh well. I have time to get it right next week, right?

2) He also complains that his girl doesn't like his friends. Who is someone that you've met recently and liked?

Lots of patrons fall in this category. I'm trying to think of a person person...sorry, nothing's coming.

3) Justin first performed this song live on The Ellen Degeneres Show. Who is your favorite talk show host?

Phil Donahue. I miss his show.

4) Young Mr. Bieber recently had his credit card rejected ... at a Subway Sandwich Shop. Think about your last trip to a fast food restaurant. Did you pay with cash or plastic or your phone?

Cash. I never use plastic for fast food.

Even though we're featuring a lack-of-love song, this is the last Saturday 9 before Valentine's Day and so this morning we shall focus on the upcoming holiday.

5) In Victorian England, it was considered bad luck to sign a Valentine. Have you ever received an anonymous card from a secret admirer?

Probably. I don't recall anything. I'm kinda hoping I get a card this year from Beast....we'll see.

6) Retailers report that approximately 3% of pet owners buy Valentines for their furry friends. Have you ever purchased a gift for a pet on a special occasion?

Of course I do!! Not that they care.

7) It was once believed that if a maiden ate a heavy meal before bed on February 13, her dreams that night would reveal the identity of the man she would eventually marry. Do you find that eating too close to bedtime disrupts your sleep?

Not particularly, not in terms of dreams. I might have some heartburn.

8) The postmaster in Verona, Italy, reports that Shakespeare's Juliet Capulet still receives love letters. Without looking it up, can you give us a quote from Romeo and Juliet?

"Romeo, Romeo, wherefore art thou Romeo?"

9) Necco's Sweethearts -- those little candy hearts that say things like "Be Mine" -- are Valentine Day's top-selling confection. Sam never could stand eating these candies. Do you like them?

I ADORE THEM! I forgot to grab any yesterday, dangit!

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
The Icebreaker Questions

1. Are you loud, outgoing or shy?

Yes.
I am all of the above at different times. In fact, I am the loudest librarian you've probably met. I can be very outgoing. However, the Real Me is quite shy and fearful.

2. What’s coming up where you’ll see an old friend?

.....I got nothing. I'm not even sure we're going to have a vacation this year, so unless said "old friend" comes to me, I'm gonna just be sitting here with my current friends. Of course, I have some current friends who are old.... Am I overthinking this question??

3. Are you easy to get along with?

I think so. Usually. Unless you're stupid or flat-out obnoxious.

4. Have you ever given up on someone, but then gone back to them?

I give up on people regularly, but I have a hard time holding myself to the vow to drop them. That's getting easier, but I've only gone "back" to a boyfriend once. It was a mistake.

5. Who was the last person that you had a deep conversation with?

There were a few of those at church this morning. With Sue, with Beast, with Sunday school people, with Sally, with Lee, with Gary....

6. Are you okay with being in a big crowd?

How big? Like a couple hundred people in a church or concert or theatre? Sure. Anything much more than that, then no. I really wanted to go to one of the marches yesterday, but holy shit I would have been hyperventilating the entire time. I don't even enjoy traveling as much as I used to because of the crowds in airports and so forth.

7. Do you believe in luck and/or miracles?

I do. Not in the "buy a lotto ticket" kind of luck. I've witnessed miracles and there is literally no earthly reason I'm still alive after a couple specific events.

8. What good thing happened during the summer? (It’s good to think about summer when you are freezing your butt off in January.)

My feet were warm. I miss that these days.

9. Do you think there is life on other planets?

Sure. I mean, why not?

10. Who was your first crush on?

First first was David Cassidy. I was, probably, 8. At most. I remember kissing an album cover. It's been downhill since then. ;-)

11. What are your bad habits?

Nailbiting. Making assumptions. Trying to answer rhetorical questions. Trusting people. Sarcasm. Lack of attentiveness.

12. What’s your favorite part of your daily routine?

Going to bed to read before sleep.

13. Other than your significant other, who are you most comfortable with?

Well, that's a rather ginormous assumption you've got going there... heh OK, I'm qute comfortable with myself. I guess Sparky is in there too. Not really many others, even my besties. See question #1.

14. Has an ex ever told you that they regret breaking up?

Yup. See question #4.

15. Why should your celebrity crush drop everything to be with you?

That would ruin everything!!

16. What would be the hardest to give up and why? Books. TV. Music.

Books. Or, actually, maybe music. I could write and then read my own stuff or read cereal boxes and magazines, but I gotta be able to sing.

17. Do you believe in second chances?

Yes and thank GOD for them, no??

18. What would like to do next in your life?

I'd feel better about answering this if Beast was contributing to the household income.

19. What’s the meanest thing that anyone has ever said to you?

Really? My co-teacher said something at Sunday school today about being as old as Moses today. My co-teacher is older than me, so I just gaped at him. [it was a joke, a lousy one] EVER though? Wow, so many things. Several of them said by my son in angry moments.

20. What’s the nicest thing that anyone has ever said to you?

Many years ago now, in the middle of a conversation about something entirely different, Beast said to me that one of the things he most admires (admired?) about me is how kind I am to others.