Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
Money for Nothing (1985)
Unfamiliar with this week's song. Hear it here.1) Sweatbands are prominent in this very 1980s video. What's the last thing you wore on your head?

I almost always have a ponytail or braid or something like that, so rubber bands and hairpins are involved every day.

2) The lyrics are from the point of view of a man who delivers and installs appliances. What's the biggest purchase you've made lately? Was it big in size or expense?

I been spending $10,000/month on nursing care for awhile. Does that count? [Not lately--I'm cashed out.]

3) The delivery man of the song imagines the worst thing that happens to a musician is a blister on his little finger or thumb. Do you have any minor aches or pains bedeviling you as you answer these questions?

I have a skin tag on my thigh that is driving me ever-so-slowly into insanity. I am using a home kit, but if it doesn't kill it in the next couple of days, I guess I'll have to have a doctor remove it.

4) The term "dire straits" describes a troubling situation that's difficult to extricate oneself from. When's the last time you found yourself in dire straits?

If I look at the big picture of my life, every damn fucking day.
Fortunately, I'm a pretty good ostrich.

5) There's a dinosaur called masiakasaurus knopfleri. It's a prehistoric, predatory lizard, and the paleontologists who discovered it were big Dire Straits fans, so they named it after lead singer/guitarist Mark Knopfler. Do you find dinosaurs fascinating, terrifying, or both?

I think they are a amazing, like all other living things. I don't send a lot of time thinking about them, though.

6) Prior to his music career, Knopfler was a junior reporter, covering the entertainment beat for the Yorkshire Evening Post. Do you believe you would make a better musician or journalist?

I like regular paychecks, so I'll go with journalist, at least old-school journalist. So many journalism people are un- or under=employed these days though, and a lot of them are working freelance, which isn't very steady.

7) In 1985, when this song was popular, rib eye steak was $3.89/pound. Today it's more than twice that. Do you have any beef in your freezer right now?

I might have some ground beef. I'm not sure. I've been using BlueApron* for about a year and they don't use a lot of beef--or at least I haven't been choosing a lot of beef dishes.

8) In 1985, Michael Jordan won the NBA Rookie of the Year award after his first season with the Chicago Bulls. It was the beginning of a career that made him a hero and a household name. Who do you think today's young people look up to?

Hopefully, people like the MSHS survivors, Malala, and LeBron but I really don't know. Even my kid doesn't tell me this stuff anymore. He's been reading Goethe, which is great and worrisome.

9) Random question: Friends take you to dinner for your birthday. The menu you're handed doesn't have any prices on it. Do you try to estimate the costs and choose what you guess is the least expensive entree? Or do you figure that since your friends want you to have a good time, you should order whatever you want?

I probably wouldn't get lobster, but I also wouldn't be aiming at soup or hamburgers either.

_______
*If you want to try it out, hit me up: I have a bunch of "free to a friend" things. YOU DO NOT HAVE TO ORDER EVERY WEEK!

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
Love Me Some Questions
These are from Love Me Some Surveys.

1. Has anyone ever made fun of your taste in music?

Of course: I like disco, and people crap on that all the time.

2. Is anyone’s birthday coming up?

Today is my brother and his wife's birthdays, and their wedding anniversary. They celebrated by moving into a brand-new house. My sister's is Tuesday. Four of my friends had birthdays today, another four tomorrow and in the following ten days there are 11 more, not counting my sister. See why I no longer send cards??

3. Do you remember who you liked in grade eight?

I have a notebook somewhere with this in it. I think that year it was Larry C. and Ron M. I'm Facebook friends with both of them now. The world is weird.

4. When was the last time you burned any part of your body?

It's been awhile since I had a kitchen accident. Having said that, I will undoubtedly do something stupid this week. I haven't even had a sunburn this year.

5. If I gave you ten dollars, what would you spend it on?

Ten bucks? I'd probably buy lunch for a friend. What I need right now, today, is about $30,000 to pay the nursing home for the last three months.

6. What are you most excited about right now?

I'm a little excited about the prospect of moving, but mostly I'm dreading all the work. Otherwise, I honestly have nothing big to look forward to as far ahead as I look.

7. Does / did either of your parents serve in the military?

My dad was in the Army Air Corps in WWII, stationed in Lake Charles, LA, because he had hearing loss and wasn't allowed to go overseas, thank God!

8. Are you somewhat of a perfectionist?

I struggle daily against this, and I'm much better about leaving things undone, or badly done, these days. I do not have time (or energy) for perfection.

9. Do you like sour candy?

I love sour candy!!

10. Are all-nighters something you have grown used to?

I haven't done an all-nighter in a long time, at least not in the sense of staying up partying. I've stayed up at hospitals all night, and I've stayed up with insomnia for hours. I'm tired all the time, whether or not I sleep 8 hours or 10 or 4.

11. Do you usually wear sunglasses when you’re driving?

My glasses darken when I'm in the sun, so yesss...?

12. Do you wear your shoes around the house?

Nope. My mother never was able to train me to do this.

13. What clothes are you most comfortable in?

T-shirts and loose pants/shorts (elastic waist). I've given in to the expanding waist 100%.

14. Are you good at painting nails?

I'm ok at it. I'm probably better at doing other people's, and my toes, than my own fingers.

15. Smoothies or slushies?

Slushies. I loathe thick, chunky drinks, unless it's a malt!

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.

Friday 5 x5

(Link in meme-roll)
More (and more) Questions About Buildings and Food

1. What’s the best layered food?

   Dirt cake is right up there....

2. What’s the best rolled food?

   I like those little salami/cheese/tortilla things.

3. What’s the most recent cuisine you’ve tried for the first time from an ethnicity not your own?

   Uhm...I can't think of any new ethnic food I've eaten. I've been pretty narrowly focused on fast- or cheap food.

4. What’s a food that scares you?

   Live octopus, still moving. Thank you, "Amazing Race."

5. What’s something you eat solely because it’s good for you?

   Yogurt.

+ + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + October 6 through 10
Yeah. Another set of questions about my least favorite month!

1. The first week of October is National Customer Service Week in the United States and Kenya. Where have you received especially good customer service?

   My health insurance company has been so amazing and helpful though the past couple of months. So have all the medical people, but that's technically not customer service I guess.

2. The second Saturday in October was National Tree-Planting Day in Mongolia. When did you last do anything resembling tree-planting?

   I watered plants sometime recently....

3. October 4 was World Animal Day (the feast day of Francis of Assisi, the Patron Saint of Animals). What’s an obscure animal you know a thing or two about?

   Echidnas are cool.

4. October 6 was National Poetry Day in Ireland and the United Kingdom. What’s a line of poetry that springs to mind now that you’re thinking about poetry?

   "When lilacs last in the dooryard bloom'd..."

5. What’s in your pocket?

   Chapstick.

+ + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Functions

1. What are you holding your breath in anticipation of?

   I'm looking forward to Thanksgiving, probably a little bit more than I should by rights.

2. What most recently gave you goosebumps?

   Something on the way to see Beast the other day made chills go up my spine. I can't remember what it was, just where I was.

3. What’s giving you that pain in the neck?

   Sleeping in chairs.

4. What’s making your heart ache?

   Everything is hard right now.

5. What are you yawning at?

   Life. I'm exhausted, and the news I got yesterday about Beast returning home needing 24/7 attention didn't exactly help.

+ + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Space

1. Of all the spaces in your residence, which is most powerfully your space?

   This corner of the couch, and the bathtub. The latter of which is calling to me rather stridently.

2. What’s the most spacious space in your everyday life?

   Sleep.

3. What’s a good song about space?

   The only one I can think of is "Major Tom."

4. What’s under your bed?

   Dust. Lots of it. I was down there a couple of nights ago picking up something that rolled under: yuck!

5. What are your thoughts on typing one or two spaces after sentences?

   I've been retrained to use just one space, but it's been hard.

+ + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + Makin’ It

1. What skill seems like it would be really fun to learn?

   I bought a kit for making friendship bracelets today. That's about my level of fun and skill right now.

2. Which of the winter Olympic sports would you love to compete in?

   I'm pretty sure my only skill here is curling, and only if I don't have to have skates on.

3. What fun craft did you make when you were a kid, in school or at camp or somewhere else?

   I loved making plaster molds and painting them.

4. If everyone in the world is the best in the world at some very specific thing, what are you most likely the best at?

   Procrastinating important things and then running around like a crazy person to get them done at the last minute.

5. What’s something you own that was handmade by someone you know?

   The knitted blanket I took a nap under this afternoon was made by one of my college roommates.

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
As Long as We Got Each Other (Theme from Growing Pains)
... because it's Father's Day weekend
Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) This is the theme from the 1980s sitcom, Growing Pains. Alan Thicke played Dr. Jason Seaver, one of TVs popular dads. Who is your favorite TV dad?

Well, Michael Landon as "Pa" is certainly up there. There was a show in the 70s called Apple's Way that I loved and the dad on it was good. I never liked much liked the shows where the dad was an idiot, although I love Tim Allen and I tried to like his show, I really did!

2) Joanna Kearns, who played Jason's wife, reports that she teased her costar by calling him, "Al," a nickname he hated. Is there someone in your life that you enjoy needling?

Only everyone I know, and occasionally even patrons I know fairly well. But I rarely mess with their names.

3) For most of the series, the Seaver children each represented a "type." The oldest, Mike, was the trouble maker. The daughter, Carol, was the brainiac. Young Ben could be very high maintenance. Which of the Seaver kids were you most like when you were growing up?

Carol, except I was much less of a jerk.

4) In the song, BJ Thomas sings about being "the luckiest dreamer who never quit dreaming." If you could have any dream come true this Saturday, what would you wish for?

Having awakened in the early hours with a headache that has since morphed into head-, upper back- shoulders-, and right wrist-aches, I'd settle for pain relief. I might even be willing to pass it along 100% to Beast if that happened, though to be fair he doesn't seem to be as sore as usual today.

5) When he mans the grill, Sam's father proudly wears the "Kiss the Chef" she gave him for Father's Day years ago. Tell us about a gift you gave someone that was a hit.

The T-shirt quilt Sparky received from us for high-school graduation is probably the one I like the most. He still uses it on his bed 6 years later, and somehow it's practically pristine even after four years in dorms!

6) Sam's dad takes his grilling very seriously and jealously guards his special marinade recipe. Do you have a secret you haven't even shared with family members?

My family-of-origin really knows very little about my life, to be honest. And there are a few things Beast doesn't know, nor Sparky.

7) He recommends using a grill basket when barbecuing vegetables so you don't have to worry about them falling through the grill. Share one of your culinary tips with us.

Add a sploosh of olive oil to the water when you boil pasta and the noodles don't stick together, which means you can make twice what you need for that meal and have leftover noodles for tomorrow. You can even make multiple batches, cool them, put them in freezer bags and have them ready to go for later in the month. (I'm all about saving time.)

8) Sam's father hates it when she swears. What's the last curse word you used?

I don't know for sure, but odds are it was "fuck." It seems to be the word of the year, even bigger than usual. It is awfully enjoyable to say in a lot of circumstances.

9) Sam's father satisfies his afternoon sugar craving with an almost endless stream of Butter Rum Lifesavers. When you crave a snack, do you usually want something sweet or salty?

Sweet. It's SUPER-rare for me to crave salty, but I'll eat almost anything sweet.

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
The Disappearing Questions

1. Last movie you saw in a theater?

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

2. What book are you reading?

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

3. Favorite board game?

Trivial Pursuit. Or Life.

4. Favorite magazine?

Ms.

5. Favorite smells?

Pine. "Clean." Vanilla.

6. Favorite sounds?

Giggling. Hymns. Wind.

7. Worst feeling in the world?

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

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

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

9. Favorite fast food place?

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

10. Future child’s name?

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

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

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

12. Do you sleep with a stuffed animal?

I do. Elsie my library cat.

13. Storms – cool or scary?

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

14. Favorite drink?

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

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

"....travel much more often!"

16. Do you eat the stems on broccoli?

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

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

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

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

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

19. Favorite sports to watch?

Football. Gymnastics.

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

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

21. What’s under your bed?

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

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

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

23. Morning person, or night owl?

I prefer mornings overall.

24. Over easy, or sunny side up?

Over easy.

25. Favorite place to relax?

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

26. Favorite pie?

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

27. Favorite ice cream flavor?

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

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

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

Friday 5

(Link in meme-roll)
Ache but Don’t Break

1. What caused your most recent tummy ache?

   I had a donut on Wednesday that did not sit well when it got to my stomach. I'm not sure what the deal was, but it was not a good way to end my day, for sure.

2. What caused your most recent heartache?

   Heh. Every day I read the news, my heart aches.

3. How did you deal with your most recent headache?

   I took a couple of Tylenol and buckled down to work for the remaining hours at my desk.

4. How do you deal with a sore throat?

   Man, I really hate sore throats! I had so many throat infections as a kid, and the last time I had strep I literally wanted to die it was so painful. I couldn't sleep, couldn't swallow ANYthing, couldn't distract myself no matter what I tried. Oh, and a cough came along with it, and a runny nose, so drainage. It was hell. This was about 6 years ago. I hope I never get sick like that again.

5. Where else do you ache?

   I had a massage last night. It's not for nothing that we call these appointments "going to get beat up."

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
Hold It Against Me (2011)
Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) Britney Spears addresses this song to a dance partner when she hears her favorite song. What song always makes you want to get up and dance?

Lots of songs, particularly show tunes. "I'm Gonna Wash That Man Right Outta My Hair", "Matchmaker Matchmaker", and like that, and several songs from Hamilton. And "Sweet Child O' Mine." Go figure.

2) She sings that she needs a vacation. How about you? If you could escape anywhere for an affordable three-day weekend, where would you go?

Far away from everyone I know. Seriously. South America sounds really good.

3) Britney shows off her dance moves in this video. Her coordination shouldn't be surprising, since she was already an accomplished gymnast in grade school. If we asked you to turn a somersault right now, could you do it?

Maybe, but I wouldn't. The last time I tried one, I was in so much pain I just sat on the floor holding my neck for half an hour hoping I hadn't broken my neck. I was 19.

4) Britney's first and only feature film was Crossroads, written by Shonda Rhimes. Ms. Rhimes is famous for writing popular TV series including Grey's Anatomy, Scandal, The Catch and How to Get Away with Murder. Have you watched any Shonda Rhimes shows?

Nope. I'm not into soapy stuff. ... Waiting for the fans to chime in.

5) Britney admits to smoking and biting her nails. Do you share either of these bad habits?

I definitely bite my nails, but less than I used to. Never smoked, thank God, since I'd probably be seriously hooked.

6) Britney prefers Margherita pizza to thin slice or deep dish pizza. What's your pizza preference?

Hello?! Chicago deep-dish forever and ever!!

7) In 2011, when this song was popular, Prince William's wedding to Kate Middleton was big news. Are you a royal watcher?

Kinda. I did get up and watch the wedding, as I watched his mother and father's wedding 30 years ago. I work with someone who's pretty insane about the whole subject so I feel pretty meh around her.

8) Apple co-founder Steve Jobs died in 2011. Do you have a Mac, and iPad or an iPhone?

Never had one. Don't plan on changing that any time soon.

9) Random question: Which friend annoys you more, the one who interrupts you all the time, or the one who is never on time?

I grew up in a big family that talked over each other all the time. Being late pisses me off, even when I try to be understanding.

Hodgepodge Questions

(Link in meme-roll)

1. Did you watch The Charlie Brown Christmas special Monday night? Who's your favorite Peanuts character and why?

We didn't watch it (I pretty much never do anymore), but I love Linus deeply and truly, but and Schroeder is just adorable. [ETA: too many buts]

"Most psychiatrists agree that sitting in a pumpkin patch is excellent therapy for a troubled mind." ~ Linus Would you agree?

Yes. Today I need a big pumpkin patch with absolutely no people in it, just dogs, a blanket, and a box of Kleenex.

2. Describe a sound from your childhood. What does this sound bring to mind?

There are times when I really wish we had a piano. The sound of noodling around on a slightly out-of-tune piano ... I miss that. Electronic keyboards are not the same.

3. You've won a trip to a winter wonderland...would that excite you? Which one of the following would you most want to experience (or which one would you dislike the least) - see the Aurora Borealis in Norway, stay in Sweden's Ice Hotel, go dogsledding in Lapland Finland, take a winter wildlife safari in Yellowstone or celebrate Winter Carnival in Quebec?

I would love to see the Ice Hotel, and going dogsledding sounds fun (for about 10 minutes). I'd love to go for another troika ride too; scroll down to Lake Baikal for the one I've been on. It was delightful and having latkes and vodka and doing the Chicken Dance around a blazing fire with Russians was surreal and hilarious.

4. Who or what keeps you humble?

I'm pretty capable of humiliating myself myself, but should I need help my family and friends stand ready to burst my balloon of self-importance.

5. What part of preparing for Christmas do you like the most? Explain.

I do like decorating the tree, now that we have a pre-lit one, but I have a hard time motivating myself to get started.

6. Gingerbread - yay or nay? Is making a gingerbread house part of your family holiday tradition?

Nope. Not a fan. Not at all. I mean, I'll eat some if its offered but I can totally live without it.

7. What's one thing you want to start, do, or complete before the calendar rolls into a new year?

Well, shopping and wrapping needs doing, eh? And it would be nice if Beast could get through a day without crying in pain a few times before 2016 commences.

8. Insert your own random thought here.

I am sick unto illness over the latest mass shooting. What the hell? Today is the first day I really feel like I live in Israel, in a police state, in a place where I am eminently unsafe in the world, since 9/11 and that was just flat-out panic and hysteria. I'm not panicking--this happened thousands of miles from me today--but there are far FAR too many ARMED nutjobs out there in the world. I realize that others in this country are in more danger on a moment-by-moment basis than me, but who the HELL shoots up and tries to bomb a disabled adult work-site?! Or, an elementary school? Or a health clinic (oh, wait that's been going on for multiple decades, no news there, really--pay attention people).....or a post office (oh wait...), or a fucking SPA?! Jesus God the world has lost its mind!
Also, hey, all you CC-licensed people: you are not living up to your promises of keeping the rest of us safe. Get with it or turn in your fucking guns, morons*.

__________
*if you choose to engage in pushing a pro-gun agenda in the comments just a reminder that I do delete crazy talk without prejudice

Friday 5, belated

(Link in meme-roll)
Holding

1. When did you recently experience a pleasantly delayed gratification?

   Birthday presents are a bit of that, aren't they? I got the starter set for Cards Against Humanity, which Sparky and I worked through last night. ;-)

2. What’s something you’d like to just fast-forward through in the next few weeks?

   Beast's pain, and probably his recovery. I'd like a memory-block too, since he's a total shithead when he's in pain in the evenings. Yes, I know it's the pain talking but the words are coming out of Beast's mouth.

3. What’s something in the next few weeks you’ll wish you could slow down so you can savor the experience?

   My days off this coming month. They go by TOO FAST.

4. What’s something that takes you a lot longer than it used to?

   Recovering from being on my feet all day on Thanksgiving!

5. What’s something you saved for later, but when later came, you decided you didn’t really want it?

   A lot of the stuff on my Amazon wishlist rotates off fairly regularly. Also random coupons and store discounts that lay around forever and eventually get thrown out.

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
Big Bad Meme

Is there anyone else in the room with you atm? What are they doing?

Beast is across the room sorting the week's mail, paying bills, doing some other financial stuff...and watching the Packers play (badly, against Carolina).

Do you show your teeth when you smile, or do you prefer smiling with your lips closed?

I don't really think about my teeth when I'm smiling--I'm pretty sure they show.

Would you rather be told the truth, even if it isn’t what you want to hear?

Yes, ultimately I would.

What is something that you plan to buy, as soon as you’ve saved up the money for it?

We really need a new vacuum. I "donated" our old one to Sparky when he moved out in August. The cleaning ladies do the carpets when they're here, and most of the floors aren't carpeted anyway, but we really need something for cleaning in between their visits.

Do you play Sudoku?

I do. Almost every day.

Have you ever had a migraine?

Yes. They are the pits.

What was the last book you read for pleasure?

I've finally finished Touch by Claire North. Great concept, good story, but the ending was a bit of a letdown....

What was the last item of clothing you purchased for yourself?

I bought a couple of new pairs of shoes for fall/winter last weekend. Before that, it was a T and a zip-hoodie on vacation.

Your first serious relationship, do you still talk to him/her?

Nope. I'm friends with his brother on Facebook though.

Who is the last person you texted?

Beast.

How close is your family?

Geographically, we're very spread out (all over the U.S.--like 5 separate states) and two countries in Europe. But, surprisingly, we're pretty close as family.

Is there anything too serious to be joked about?

It's impossible to laugh at other people's honest grief. There's humor in grief, to be sure, but not directed outwards at someone who is grieving.

Do you like to understand and have good knowledge of things?

Yes.

What is worse? Back pain or shoulder pain?

Well this is eerily timely....Beast has been suffering from both in the past three weeks. We're far more concerned about the pain that is originating in his spine and causing the fingers on his left hand to go numb almost constantly. I think nerve pain is the worst because nothing really 'fixes' it except morphine (which they don't give outside the hospital or directly under a nurse's care, these days). His arm just aches all the time.

Have you ever almost fallen off of something high off the ground?

Nope. I tend to hold on tight when I'm elevated. Probably has something to do with growing up in the mountains.

What’s one fruit you love in drinks?

Lemon.

What is something simple that you’re afraid of?

The bottom falling out. Y'know when this question comes up anymore, I just sit here for 15-20 seconds trying to come up with something scary...and in this case something "simple" that's scary. The stuff that tends to scary me is not simple. Bats, spiders, death, the dark, heights...nope. Maybe large crowds, but especially in the last month I've had to face some serious fears and come to terms with them and stand my ground just to get on with life. Doesn't mean I'm calm and cool all the time, but I've developed a very large capacity for "bring it."

Has this weekend been good?

Yeah, actually, it's been good. I'm going to finish this and publish it and flop over for my mid-afternoon Sunday nap. That's always good.
I'm NOT, however, looking forward to work tomorrow. Friday was a great day for getting stuff done, but a shit day for dealing with coworkers. I really don't want to see them tomorrow.

How much time do you take to get ready in the morning?

I'm usually up and getting ready to leave the house about 90 minutes before I need to leave.

Last movie you watched in theaters and with whom?

"A Walk in the Woods" last month with Beast. I loved the book. The movie was ok--lovely scenery and Nick Nolte and Robert Redford were funny.

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
You're No Good (1974)
... because Harriet suggested Linda Ronstadt
Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) This week's featured artist, Linda Ronstadt, turns 69 next month. Will you be celebrating any family/friend birthdays this summer?

We'll probably do something on the 4th of July. Otherwise, nope, no summer birthdays.

2) Linda sings that she's learned her lesson and it's left a scar. Tell us how you got one of your scars.

I fell, as a child, when I tripped over a snagged string of carpet that lay over the threshold of the back door. When I landed, it was on the screw holding the threshold to the jamb and the top of the screw tore a 1/4" slice of skin off my knee and left it flapping by a small bit of skin. This was in the days when you slapped a bandaid on and kept moving, so no stitches, though it hurt like an actual bitch.

3) This song is about a lover who is, obviously, no good. Let's be more positive. Who is the nicest person you know?

There are some people at my church who are what I call "pathologically nice." I mean, they really ARE nice people, not faking it, but they're ALWAYS nice. It's lovely, and weird. ;-)

4) Linda says that she grew up on Mexican music, which was sung by her entire family. Do you speak any Spanish?

Sí, hablo un poco de español. Estudié español en la universidad, pero las clases que tomé eran principalmente literatura. En consecuencia, puedo leer y escribir español mejor que me siento poder hablarlo.

5) She toured often throughout her career and is quoted as saying, "they haven't invented a word for that loneliness that everybody goes through on the road." Are you missing someone right now?

I'm ok, I think. My brother's visiting, and we've been talking a lot about Mom & Dad and others who are no longer with us.

6) Ms. Ronstadt was once involved with George Lucas of Star Wars fame. Who is your favorite Star Wars character?

I like C3P0.

7) In 1974, when this song was a hit, The Magic 8 Ball was still a top-seller at toy stores. It retailed for just $1.99, and promised that all you had to do was gaze at it, concentrate, and wait to learn your fate ... "if you dare!" If you could get an answer to one question about the future, what would you ask?

I don't want to know. It's better that way.

8)1974 is the year when Mikhail Baryshnikov defected to the United States. Have you ever been to the ballet?

Yes, ironically enough, in Russia (and China).

9) Random question: What's your shoe size?

I'm a 9 or 9.5 or occasionally a 10.

Thursday 13

(Link in meme-roll)
Things Starting with J

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


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


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



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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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


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

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
The Blerp Meme

When you get a headache do you take painkillers right away or try to wait it out?

Depends on the type of pain; if I suspect it might bloom into Def-Con 10 eventually, I take the meds early. If it's likely something that can be alleviated by closing my eyes, drinking some water, or otherwise addressing the cause, I try that first. Then again, I just went and got two ibuprofen because my shoulder is killing me--for an unknown reason.

Is there a really funny YouTube video you’d like to recommend to me?

The Hallelujah Monks are back. I haven't watched them this year, but I watched Beast watch them for the first time this week, which was nearly as funny as the actual video.

Did you watch Sesame Street when you were little?

I was just a few days short of six years old when Sesame Street first aired, and had been reading for at least a couple of years, so I was definitely past the target audience. I did watch Electric Company when it first aired.

What’s the last thing you touched, other than your computer?


The buttered bread that constitutes my lunch, which is now in my stomach.

When was the last time you talked to your best friend?


Depends on which one. Either 4 minutes (give or take), several months, or several more months.

How often do you listen to music?


Almost every day at work. Every Sunday at church. Occasionally in the car. Often I'm singing either out loud or in my head.

What color is your cell phone?

The case is silver and blue, like this one.

What is the last non-alcoholic beverage you drank?

I am currently on my second DDP of the day.

Do you like to wear sweatpants?

ONLY at home, and only when relaxing, not in front of People. This, of course, doesn't inclued Beast or Sparky. ;-)

What song are you currently listening to? Who sings it?

Surprisingly--in light of the previous question about music--there's no music in the air right now. However, it is Sunday afternoon in December, so we're watching football, Bears v. Browns and then Packers v. Cowboys. At least with those two games, the decision for whom to cheer (or against whom) is very very clear!

Have you ever gotten a black eye?

I'm...not sure....

What caused it?

In gym class in 8th grade, I got whacked in the face with a softball, which broke my glasses. It may have blackened my eye, but I don't remember. What I do remember is that I could sit out of the rest of softball, and having to wait a week to get my glasses fixed.

How many times have you checked up on your ex?

I Google their names occasionally. One is the brother of one of my Facebook friends, so he pops up unannounced once in awhile. Others have way-too-common names to actually track down.

If you had to get a tattoo what would it be?

I doubt I would ever do this, unless I had an awesome scar to which I'd attach a zipper tab tat.

How many tabs are open right now?

A relatively sedate 5 tabs and three programs in the start bar.

Are you scared of needles?

I'm not scared of them, but watching someone get a shock tends to make me really nauseous, just that moment when the needle starts to pierce the skin. ....shudder, gag....

Do you believe love can last forever?

Yes. Of course it does. It's people who get all fucked up, not love.

Are good-byes easy or hard for you?

Usually hard. Sometimes, though, I don't even notice till later that there was a goodbye.

Would you rather sing or dance?

Sing. I can't really dance, or rather, I don't trust myself to look anything but ridiculous while dancing.

Thursday 13

(Link in meme-roll)
Recent random injuries/aches/pains

1. I had a large-ish bruise on my right thigh this week. Pretty sure I got it running into a table or counter. I have a vague memory of it happening, but not which table or where I was. It happens all the time.
2. My second toe, the one next to my big toe, on my right foot was incredibly sore last week. It hurt like a muscle ache AND from my big toe nail rubbing on it.
3. As a result of my regular dental checkup on Tuesday, my mouth and gums were really sore for most of the day yesterday.
4. Also, the phrase "necrotic tissue" was uttered. The word "reversible" was also used, so I'm flossing again.
5. I seem to have developed a touch of plantar fasciitis on my left foot. It comes and goes and hasn't really gotten painful to walk on, but I definitely have noticed it. I keep trying to exercise and stretch that foot when I think of it.
6. What happens when you 'tap' your forehead on the corner where two walls meet to exemplify how stupid you feel? You end up with a bruise in the middle of your forehead, thus proving you ARE pretty stupid.
7. My back gave a large, healthy ccccraaaaackkkkk in the middle of my massage yesterday. It felt great. Then it hurt. And it has been sore right there all day today. Probably because Stace beat the shit out of my shoulders in that area, as usual.
8. I have somehow bruised my right pinkie nailbed. I really must stop chewing on my nails and cuticles, because...
9. ...my right index finger is sore to the touch where I've been nibbling on the thumb side of it...
10. ...my right middle finger is also a bit sore...
11. ...as is the left side of my left thumb
12. ...and my left middle finger is very sore to the touch and has been bleeding off and on because I've pulled so much skin off along the very edge along the nail. I really am an idiot.
13. And this appeared on the back of my hand yesterday, looking bruised and reddish. Today it's just dark, with no swelling or soreness. There is a slight bruised feeling on the left edge.

Yes, this is a wonky perspective--I do, actually, have a pinky finger. ;-)

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
Don't Want to Talk About It

1) Crazy Sam is beyond sick of all things K@rd@shi@n*! What's a topic you're just tired of and don't want to talk about anymore?

How Islam is a much more violent religion than (other religions, usually Christianity). Over 20% of the world's population is Muslim; don't you think there'd be LOADS more bombings if they were all violent?

2) Rod Stewart has been recording for more than 40 years. Do you have any of his music on your iPod/mp3 player?

I don't use any kind of MP3.

3) Rod Stewart is known for his coif. How much time do you spend on your hair each morning?

If I blowdry it, perhaps 15 minutes tops. Otherwise, less than 5.

4) Rod's first child, a daughter, will turn 50 this year. His most recent child, also a daughter, is 2. How close in age are your children? If you don't have any children, how close in age are you and your siblings? If you don't have children OR siblings, well, tell us what's immediately to your left as you respond to this meme. If you don't have anything to your left ... Oh, hell, I give up!

Rod Stewart has a daughter my age?! WTF--how did I not know this?!?
I only have one child. My oldest sibling is 20 years older than me. The youngest is 10 years older than me. There were two others, but they are dead. And I have a table with stuff stacked all over it to my left.

5) Which do you prefer -- french toast or pancakes?

Pancakes.

6) When was the last time you lost your cool?

I've been barky all week at work. I haven't totally lost it, but I've been on the verge a couple of times. Too much stress.

7) Crazy Sam once had a pet hamster she named Bart. Have you ever cared for a hamster or a gerbil?

Yes, we hamster-sat a couple of times. We have guinea pigs, which are just hamsters on steroids.

8) Are you ticklish?

Not as much as I used to be.

9) Ouch! You have a headache! What's your go-to remedy?

Dark room. Closed eyes. A neck massage. But frankly, the usual thing is Tylenol or ibuprofen...or possibly both. I had a killer headache on Friday, bad enough that I had to come home and lie down. Totally stress. However, I've had a couple of migraines over the years and nothing really works for those except trying to sleep it off.

*edited 5/15 to block searches on this term --gah

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
Same Old Lang Syne

1) This week's song is the tale of an accidental holiday encounter between former lovers. (Hear it here.) They sit in her car and spend hours catching up, then she gives him a chaste kiss and they never see one another again. Is there a past love who still has a special spot in your heart, despite the years or the miles since your relationship?

Well, of course. Not that I would want to spend hours catching up with some of them, but they are all in my heart, along with other people I love(d).

2) This week's song includes a play on the traditional Scottish song, "Auld Lang Syne." Have you ever visited Scotland?

Yes. Beautiful place. I would love to go back.

3) Mother Winters has long told Sam that if she has a glass of water for every glass of champagne she drinks on New Year's Eve, she'll feel better on New Year's Day. Do you have a favorite hangover prevention tip or cure?

My favorite hangover prevention tip is to have one glass of whatever, at most, and be finished. Better if you just drink water without the champagne.

4) Do you like champagne?

Actually, I can't drink cheap-ass champagne at all anymore having gotten the sick-drunkest I ever was on the stuff. The mere smell of it....gahhh. I like the good (expensive) stuff, but I'm pretty careful with it.

6) This year at midnight, Crazy Sam will kiss the nose of her puppy, Chico. Will you be kissing anyone when the clock strikes 12?

I'll probably be in bed, asleep. Otherwise, I'll be laughing at the local anchors--two years ago one of them was incredibly high/drunk/inappropriate--and kissing Beast and Sparky, assuming they're awake. And if I do last till midnight, I'll be up till 1 since there will be fireworks shot off in the vicinity. Yeah, imagine that: fireworks, in our neighborhood. ...sigh

6) The Fifty Shades of Grey trilogy was the runaway publishing phenomenon of 2012. It was so successful that the publisher, Random House, was able to give its employees massive bonuses this year. Have you read it?

I read about a page of the first one, total, skipping around a bit. Let's just say that my reaction was about the same as tasting cheap champagne. I'd rather read a cereal box.

7) Year-end is a time for newspapers, magazines and websites to run lists. According to Askmen.com, Jennifer Lawrence of The Hunger Games is the at the of the year's "Most Desirable Woman" list. People magazine has declared Channing Tatum "The Sexiest Man Alive -- 2012." Do either of these two set your pulse racing? If not, who is your celebrity crush?

Um, let's see: I don't think Jennifer Lawrence is that pretty--she's got a little of that early Renee Zellweger squinty thing going on. BUT she is an excellent actress, and stunning in The Hunger Games, which is more important to me anyway. Channing Tatum is young enough (and ridiculous enough) to be my son. Yuck. It's really the ridiculousness that makes him unpalatable, I suppose, since there are a few other young guys (Jake Gyllenhaal, Jimmy Fallon, Seth Meyers, etc.) that don't make me want to scratch them behind the ears and tell them to behave. Otherwise, I'll stay with the standards: Brad Pitt, Mark Harmon, and Denzel Washington.

8) Pasadena, California, is known for hosting the traditional Rose Parade. It begins at 8:00 AM on January 1, so the people who watch it live must be there very early. Does the thought of getting up and dressed to sit in the California sun, bright and early on New Year's morning appeal, to you?

Yes. I'd go in a heartbeat. I was there IN the parade in 1980. Someday I'd like to see it from the stands....

9) Sometimes aches and pains that aren't serious can still really hurt. For example, Sam just dropped a can of tomato paste on her foot and the little red mark it left is making her crazy! Are you suffering through a bump or bruise or cut right now?

I somehow cut the base of my palm opposite my thumb earlier this week--just a paper cut. That was annoying for a couple of days, but otherwise I think I'm fairly unblemished. I had a KILLER headache yesterday all day: from 10 until 3 I downed 2 aspirin, then 2 Tylenol, then 2 Advil about two hours apart...and STILL it raged on. I think it has abated today, though I can still feel it pacing around behind my forehead, waiting to be released.
Oddly enough, two other people went home sick yesterday--one with "general malaise" the other with a migraine + GERD. Maybe it's sick building syndrome.

Patrick's Place

(Link in meme-roll)
Saturday Six

1. P is for PAIN: What’s your pain tolerance: do you handle pain well or are you a baby when it comes to discomfort?

I can be sort of a baby, but the fact is that not a day goes by anymore that my shoulders aren't in some state of pain. I barely notice unless they're achy as well. Quick, emergent pain I actually deal with pretty well. When I was having kidney stone pain a couple of years ago, it wasn't as bad as I'd been told it would be; everyone said it was like labor pain and in my case at least, it was FAR from that bad.

2. P is for PARTY: Are you the type that’s in the center of the action at a party, or do you wind up in a corner with a few folks you know well?

The latter. I don't like to be a spectacle, but I like talking and laughing with people I know pretty well.

3. P is for PAYMENT: How often do you write a check instead of paying cash or using a debit card?

I haven't written a check at a store for years. The checkbook actually never leaves the house anymore.

4. P is for PENCIL: On the desk where your computer normally is, are there more pens or pencils?

Since the only desk with a computer on it in my life is at work, I'm answering as if I were there: there are more pens ON the desk, and more pencils IN the desk drawers. I use more pencils at work than pens, no contest.

5. P is for PINTO: What is your favorite kind of bean?

Ironically, we're having Black Bean Bake for dinner tonight. I prefer garbanzo beans on their own, but Pinto is my favorite bean-named guinea pig. ;-)

6. P is for POT: Copper, Non-stick, Stainless Steel: What are most of your cooking pots made of?

Thanks my my inlaws' Christmas gift 20 years ago, we have Revere Ware that looks just like this photo plus a skillet and two larger pots. And yes, all our copper bottoms are shiny. I knew you would worry. lol

Curious as a Cat x 3

(Link in meme-roll)

#349
1) Make a list of movies you believe everyone should see at least once.

I really can't do this since I'm not a big movie viewer. So, being the way I am, I'll go with Battleship Potemkin. [I've only seen part of it]

2) What was the last random really hurtful thing someone said to you?

I mostly shrug this sort of thing off, since in my family (of origin) Hurtful is the language we revert back to regularly. I'm sure someone at work was the last "really?" comment, but barring that my niece Katherine was in rare form on Thanksgiving.

3) What's the first thing you do when you get off work/out of school?

Go home and take off my shoes.

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

Easter basket!!

#350
1) Do you have any friends you regret not keeping in touch with?

I would love to find a couple of high school friends who are not interested in being found. I am actually a horrible friend in terms of keeping in touch, though.

2) Would you have one of your fingers surgically removed if it guaranteed immunity from all major diseases?

If I could pick a finger, then I might just consider that. Bear in mind, however, that I'm still trying to kick a stupid cold.

3) Which is creepier to see in your kitchen: a mouse or a cockroach?

Cockroach, for sure. Nothing like bugs to make me feel like I need to fumigate the entire building....

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

Feathers. Soft. Pretty.

#351
1) What perks you up on a cold, gloomy day?

A book, a fire in the fireplace, and a warm blanket.

2) Have you ever been to a fashion show?

No. I don't have a bucket list, but this would NEVER make it.

3) Describe the wackiest but most useful advice you've ever received.

Most advice sounds wacky to start with. Throwing oatmeal in the bath, for instance, isn't something normal people would think of, but it definitely helps with hives.

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

This building and my niece & her husband are the ONLY things I've any interest in seeing in Spain.

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
The 88 Meme

1. What type questions do you hate on a meme?

The same questions over and over, and questions that clearly are phishing for info.

2. If you married the last person you texted, what would your last name be?

Last person I texted was my son. But since I didn't actually take Beast's name (alone) when we got married, my name wouldn't change much regardless. I don't understand this name-changing thing, to be honest.

3. Were you happy when you woke up today?

Hmm, it took me a really long time to get myself upright this morning, but that was just tiredness. I wasn't UNhappy certainly.

4. When were you on the phone last? And with who?

I called my bro today, and he called me back after he got my message.

5. Who are you excited for?

I'm pretty excited about Ben and Marguerite's impending parenthood.

7. Honestly, who was the last person to tell you they love you?

Honestly, it was Beast, earlier today.

8. What's the last thing you put in your mouth?

Water.

9. Have a best friend?

Yup.

10. Were you ever or are you scared to fall in love?

Nope.

11. Do you think teenagers can be in love?

Yup.

12. Last person you wanted to punch in the face?

Hmm... several patrons and my boss spring immediately to mind.

13. What time is it right this second?

6:33:51 p.m. CDT

14. What do you want right now?

I want my legs to stop hurting randomly. Well, not randomly, but wow I didn't know I had muscles in some of these places!

15. Who was the last person you took a picture with?

Probably Sparky. I don't know, though.

16. Are you single/taken/heartbroken/or confused?

Taken. Frequently confused about most everything in life, too, though not necessarily about relationships.

17. When was the last time you cried?

Today. Got to thinking about my dad....

18. Do you have a good relationship with your parents?

I got along pretty well with my dad. Mom and I had a fraught relationship.

19. Do you find it hard to trust others?

Well...yeah, sometimes.

20. How fast does your mind change?

Once I've made it up? I'm pretty amenable, if presented with enough facts.

21. I bet you miss somebody right now. Who is it?

See #17 and #18. And Ellen.

22. Can you honestly say you're okay right now?

I think I am. Nothing major to complain about.