Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
Creepy Crawlies

1. You are walking down the road and you look down. There is a bug. Do you step on it?

Probably not, at least not intentionally. Unless it's an earwig; those things are (shudder) nasty. Yes, I did just shudder for real.

2. What is one fantasy that you want to come true more than any other?

World peace.

3. Someone knocks on your door. Do you look out the window to see who it is before you open it? Do you open it regardless of who it is?

No, I look. And because they can look back in the sidelights, I have to open it once I've looked. If I'm upstairs or generally away from where they can see me, I have been known to pretend I'm not here at all.

4. Have you ever eaten Play Doh?

I think so, probably, as a kid. Smells better than it tastes.

5. What was your favorite Saturday morning cartoon as a child and why?

I wasn't allowed to watch Saturday morning TV. That was the time reserved for cleaning the house. Mom did the main part, I was only responsible for my room, and when lunchtime rolled around, regardless of how much (or little) I'd done in my room to actually clean, I was free!

6. Are you a “people watcher”?

The older I get, the more fascinating I find people. Except the annoying ones....

7. I have a bowl of fruit. There are apples, oranges & pears. You help yourself to one - which one do you choose?

Assuming they are all at peak ripeness, I'll have a pear, thank you.

8. What is your biggest pet peeve in the blogging world?

Wow. I don't really get peeved very often with blogs anymore. Horrific spelling and lack of coherence is a definite kill for me, though.

9. What is one religion that you could just never see yourself joining?

I think I'd be a terrible Hindu. All those gods to keep track of....

10. What word do you use far too often?

It used to be "actually" but these days it might be pretty close to "probably."

11. How long do you spend in the shower?

Ten minutes? Long enough to wash my hair, scrub my face, and soap up and rinse the bod.

12. If you were to write a personal ad about yourself, what would it say?

I wouldn't. I promise you that no matter what happens in my future, I am extraordinarily unlikely to ever date again.

13. Your favorite flavor of soup is….?

I love a good split pea with ham. It's getting to be that time of year when it tastes best, too!

14. You are sitting on a bench in the park and a bug walks in front of your feet…. do you squash him? (I am assuming this is a different bug from question #1)

My answer is the same. I don't go out of my way to kill things on purpose as a rule.

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
Let's Pretend

1. What is your middle name?

Well, according to the Social Security database, it's in the top 40 names of the last century, but it hasn't been in the top 200 list since the 1950s when it was only in the top 70 or so names. I don't think I've met anyone my age or younger with that name, but you all certainly would recognize it as a "real name" if you heard it.

2. What is your favorite color?

Blue. And I'm not really fussy about what blue: teal, baby, navy, denim... Blue.

3. What’s your lucky number?

I don't think I have one. I don't "play the numbers" as a rule so it's not much of an issue. I have some "favorite" numbers, but not because they're "lucky."
However, there are some weird coincidences in our family in terms of birthdays: lots of people born on the 27th or 25th of various months and we have a pretty good record of having kids born in years ending in 3 since 1933, except we missed 2003 because my nieces missed the program.

4. Do you have any pets?

Just our little guinea pig, Pinto.

5. Where are you from?

This pretty little planet between Mars and Venus. It's lovely. You should visit. Maybe not during hurricane season, though.

6. How tall are you?

At my tallest, I was around 1.73 meters. I've shrunk some since then though.

7. What shoe size are you?

I'm running at about 10 these days. Somehow, it feels like they just keep growing, but I think it's just that my arches keep falling more and more.

8. How many pairs of shoes do you own?

Ha ha ha ha. I'm not quite Imelda-level, but my mom kind of was...it's a goal. We all need goals, right?

9. What was your last dream about?

I have had a bunch of super-weird dreams this week. Lots of traveling, packing, and cleaning. Yeah. Go nuts with all that interpretation.

10. What talents do you have?

Ugh. Right now, it seems my talent involves headaches and irritated GI tracts. Not feeling the joy today.

11. Are you psychic in any way?

I don't even know if I buy psychic powers, to be honest. Sometimes things happen that are creepily coincidental, but I don't think it's psychic.

12. Favorite song?

"Amazing Grace" either the traditional version (sung fairly straight) or Chris Tomlin's version. Though a good gospel version will rock me too.

13. Favorite movie?

Shoah.

14. Are you religious?

Yes.

15. Have you ever been to the hospital?

Of course. I was a candystriper for cryin' out loud. I spent time in hospitals from about age 2 as a visitor (very sick sister). I take Beast to the hospital again this Thursday for another nerve treatment. I spend a lot of time in hospitals. I've only been a patient IN the hospital twice though, thank God!

16. Have you ever been in trouble with the law?

I've gotten one ticket in my life. And I got pulled over last spring because my car came up as suspended, according to the cop; he was really sweet, and it was because Beast's license is suspended, not the car.

17. Have you ever met any celebrities?

Not really. It's not my thing to search them out.

17. What color socks are you wearing?

I have naked feet. It's still summer in my house!

18. Have you ever been famous?

Noooo....I've been in the paper a couple of times when I was interviewed at work. I don't really think that counts, though; both times were local papers.

20. Would you like to be a big celebrity?

ABSOLUTELY NOT!!!

21. What type of music do you like?

I like almost every kind of music, especially if I understand it. Like, I don't really get Asian music but that's probably because I have no conception of how it works, what it's supposed to sound like.

22. How many pillows do you sleep with?

Just one. I have an extra for reading in bed, but it puts my neck at a weird angle for sleeping.

23. What position do you usually sleep in?

Always on my side. Would love to sleep on my stomach sometimes, but not with a CPAP on my face. The only time I ever sleep on my back is if I have an upset stomach. I know, don't ask.

24. How big is your house?

It's about 2100 sq. feet plus basement. FAR too large for two people, but it's full of cra ...er, furniture and uh, stuff, that one or the other of us refuses to get rid of: "we might need it someday."

25. What do you typically have for breakfast?

Usually a bagel with some kind of (sliced) cheese on it.

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

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
Along Alone Again, Naturally (1971)
Not familiar with this week's song? Hear it here.

1. Friday was St. Patrick's Day, March 17th! Did you celebrate with green beer or a green milkshake?

Hell no. I did have Irish Soda Bread, brought to work by a coworker. I don't add green to food that shouldn't have it, though.

2. Did you remember to wear green?

I did. Of course; too many childhood pinchings to dare to forget green on St. Pat's.

3. What color do you look best in?

I have a purple sweater that I got at a resale shop last fall that someone told me this week is a good shade for me. I try to avoid red, since I tend to have a bad case of red-face even without it. And I think I do OK with teal/turquoise.

4. This week's featured artist, Gilbert O'Sullivan, was born in Waterford, Ireland. Waterford is famous for Waterford Crystal. Do you have glassware that you save for special occasions?

We have two full (glass-front) cupboards full of glassware we basically never use: beer mugs, martini glasses, luncheon dishes. I just can't get rid of them.

5. This week's featured song includes the line, "To think that only yesterday I was cheerful, bright and gay." How were you feeling yesterday?

Yesterday was ok. I got a fair amount of work done, attended to some great tunes while reorganizing the worms and spiders sections of our Dewey books. (That was probably meaningless--Dewey has updated most of the animal sections, so I'm working through the 'corrections' in our books--someday maybe I'll fix the collection itself....)

6. It begins with reference to a wedding that didn't quite come off because the bride left the groom at the altar. When were you most recently at church? Was it for a holiday service, a regularly scheduled service, a special event (a wedding or baptism)?

I teach Sunday School, so I'm there every Sunday, including last week. I'll be there tomorrow as well. I'm the Donut Lady.

7. In 1971, when this song was popular, Malibu Barbie was a big seller for Mattel. This doll had a perpetual tan. For a human to achieve this, a tanning bed or self tanner is usually required. Have you used either method to give yourself a tan?

Nope. I've got that northern European white skin with freckles and when hit by sun it mostly just burns, peels, and goes back to white-with-maybe-two-more-freckles. I've probably given myself enough sun damage from tanning with baby oil as a teenager. I don't need more. Also, self-tanning (spray) is ORANGE! Ick.

8. In March, 1971, James Taylor appeared on the cover of TIME magazine. What's your favorite James Taylor song?

"You've Got a Friend"

9. Random Question: What word or phrase do you hear yourself saying too often?

"Actually" (ack-shul-lee) or "derp." I swear a lot too, though.

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
A Summer Place (1960)
Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) This song highlights the soundtrack from the movie A Summer Place, which is about two teenage lovers named Molly and Johnny. Did you ever have a youthful summer romance? If so, what was his/her name?

Not ... exactly. I had a Christmas Break romance, sort of, one year in college, for which I should probably have been arrested; he was younger than me and I was 18. Otherwise, no.

2) The "summer place" of the song/movie is a resort along the Maine coast. What "summer place" are you day dreaming about this winter morning?

Anyplace where the sun in shining! I don't even care what the temperature is at this point--I just need some sunshine.

3) In the movie, Johnny was played by Troy Donahue, who is remembered as nice looking but not terribly talented. Can you think of one of today's actors who you could describe as "nice looking but not terribly talented?"

So ... many ... choices ....

4) Molly is played by Sandra Dee, a perky blonde who was one of 1960's bankable movie stars. Two other blondes -- Doris Day and Debbie Reynolds -- joined Sandra Dee in the Top 10. The only brunette to sell a lot of movie tickets that year was Elizabeth Taylor. Do you believe men find blondes more attractive than brunettes or redheads?

I don't know. I think in commercial terms, yes, but I'm not sure about actual attraction. From my perspective, blond hair (in a guy) is "pretty" but I prefer darker-haired guys in terms of sex appeal or whatever.

5) "A Summer Place" was by far the best-selling record of 1960. Also in 1960, two brothers in Ypsilanti, Michigan, opened a pizza place called Dominick's. That was the beginning of a chain now known as Domino's. What's the last food you had delivered to your front door?

Pizza, but not Domino's! Never, ever. Partially because they don't deliver out here in the boonies, and partially because of the owners' politics. But they do have pretty good breadstick thingies... (people at work order from them for work-related stuff)

6) In 1965, one of the brothers sold his share of the business to his brother for cash so he could buy a VW Beetle. Tell us about a time you had buyer's remorse.

Almost every time I buy clothes these days. Nothing is comfortable, because it either pinches all the fatty parts of my or makes me look (shock!) fat.

7) In 1960, novelist Ernest Hemingway returned to the United States from Spain and settled in Ketchum, Idaho. Tell us about the last book you read. Was it a novel or non-fiction?

The literal last book I read from is Tooth and Nail by Ian Rankin. Rebus had just wakened up with a killer hangover and no member of his return to his hotel. The last book I finished is Nothing Short of Dying by Erik Storey. Good, a bit more violent than I normally appreciate, but set in some places I know fairly well.

8) In December, 1960, John F. Kennedy, Jr. was baptized in the Georgetown University Chapel. His godparents were Charles and Martha Bartlett, the couple who originally introduced young John's famous parents. Do you have godparents?

Not that I know of. I wasn't baptized till I was confirmed so I doubt that was a thing my dad was willing to do.

9) Random question: You're at dinner with a married couple who begins to fight. Would you intercede and try to make peace? Or would you just sit back stay out of it?

Depends on the topic of the argument and how much alcohol they've each put away. I've done both options. My instinct is to intervene, and I totally would if it looked like things were going towards violence, but often it's hard to know how to intervene without taking sides. Or appearing to take sides. I just know, either way, I'm going to feel icky the next day. We had friends do this while playing cards on vacation one night 10 or so years ago. He stormed off to bed. She stayed up and we continued playing for another half hour or so. In terms of who was right: he was. Too weird. I still feel icky about that one.

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
The Getting to Know You Questions

1. Would you prefer to be smart or happy, and why?

Happy, but I suppose that would get tiresome after awhile. I dunno. I think there's no way to pick just one of these since situations and needs change so frequently.

2. If you could choose one superpower, what would it be and why?

Invisibility.

3. What is your biggest regret in life so far?

Just one? I have so many....

4. If you could marry a fictional character, who would it be and why?

My first answer was going to be Almanzo Wilder, but he's not really fictional. So...Robert Parker's Spenser. (or Hawk)

5. If money and career were no object, where in the world would you choose to live?

Right now, as winter approaches, pretty much any random Greek island, or specifically Ydra.

6. What’s the last book you read that you simply could not put down until you finished?

I can't think of anything that's grabbed me like this for awhile. I mean, I've read some good books, but my life has been so fragmented this year that sustained, unputdownable reading is not happening.

7. What television show do you plan your day around in order to see it live?

I don't watch anything live. Even football games get DVR'd so we can skip ads. OK, maybe SNL...naw, we DVR that too.

8. What extracurricular activities or sports did you participate in when you were in high school?

I was in Band, Orchestra, and Wind Ensemble. I was in a couple of clubs too but nothing real time-intensive.

9. Of all your pet-peeves, which is the strangest?

I'm not sure I'd notice if they were that strange, would I? Honestly, I can't think of any weird peeves. Maybe people who claim to be Christian but clearly don't let it affect their actual behavior toward others. Ever.

10. Is it better to beg forgiveness or ask permission?

As a Mom, I must say that it always better to ask permission. As a human being, I'd rather ask forgiveness.

11. If you inherited or won a million dollars, what would you do with it?

Pay off the house. Put the rest in an IRA or something similar.

12. What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?

The most mortifying moment was whipping around at work because I had HAD it with a coworker interrupting me... and it was my boss who was trying to get my attention. I saw the next few months and years in startling clarity in that moment. Weirdly, accurately, and horrifying.

13. Which fictional character do you believe is the most like yourself?

Jo, from Little Women. Or at least I wish.

14. Are you superstitious? If so, what are you most superstitious about?

I would love to say no, but I do knock wood and other silly things like that.

15. Do you believe it is vital to everyday life to know what is happening in the world around you?

I've made it this far without knowing everything that's going on, so ... Seriously, I do think one should try to keep track of the Big Wide World in general terms so as to not do too much navel-gazing.

16. What is the nicest thing anybody has said, or you believe they would say, about you?

Beast told me several years ago that he was amazed at how kind I am. I was floored. I certainly never would have said that about myself.

17. What are your life and career goals in 5, 10 and 15 years?

I'd like to be alive. Perhaps in 15 years I'll be able to retire. The way things are going though, that's not necessarily likely.

18. Would you rather live in a large house in the suburbs, or a tiny apartment in the city with an excellent view?

Can't I have both? Really, I'd rather be in the suburbs, but not in a large house. Smaller is better.

19. What are you[r] three weaknesses?

I have way more than just three!! The first three I thought of are my big mouth, my inability to let sleeping dogs lie, and my impatience.

20. How would you describe yourself in three words?

Smart, anxious, middle-aged.

21. Which is more logical to follow—your heart or your head?

Logic = head.

22. Are you spiritual or religious in any way? If so, how?

Yeah, I am. But I'm less than interested in converting anyone. I just want people to not be hypocritical and horrible.

23. If you could have any career possible, what would it be?

I like my current career. Although hanging around doing nothing all day has its perks as well.

24. Have you ever been arrested or contracted any diseases?

... How are these related? I've gotten a speeding ticket. And of course I've had diseases: strep, hyperthyroidism, hyperparathryoidism, various eye issues, influenza, pneumonia, German measles, chicken pox, hyperglycemia.... What a ridiculous question.

25. Which is better—a novel or a movie?

Depends on the book or movie in question. Usually, the book, though.

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
The Musical Perceptions Meme

1. Where did you grow up?

I was born and lived my first 18 years happily in suburban Denver.

2. Where do you live now?

Via the shortest route on Google Maps, I currently live 999 miles from the home in which I grew up. 😢

3. What do you think about religion?

I think it's between me and whatever god(s) I do or do not believe in. Especially if nothing I'm doing has any impact whatsoever on you.

4. When did you start using online social media?

Way back in about 1991, I was on the Prodigy boards (BBS) especially active in Ten Forward, where we discussed, in intense detail, EVERY WORD of EVERY EPISODE of ST:TNG. Among other silliness.

5. What did you study to be?

Educated.

6. How are you at this point of your career?

Still educated, but losing brain cells daily. And I love my work.

7. Do you use your real name on a blog?

Hell no!

8. Do people you work with read your blog?

Hell no!

9. Are you on the job market?

I'm not but my husband is. Anyone know about any sales jobs in niche chemistry and construction markets?

10. If you could go back in time to meet someone famous but now deceased, who would it be?

After today's Sunday School lesson, I'm really feeling the need to check in with Mary about the deets around her alleged virginity. This is not something I'm really comfortable talking to anyone about, but the kids at church...they have questions!!

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
Battle Hymn of the Republic (1968)
... because it's 4th of July
Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.
This performance of "Battle Hymn of the Republic" is from Robert Kennedy's funeral. So this week, we focus on him.

1) During WWII, when he was just 17, Robert Kennedy enlisted in the Navy. He was disappointed he was never involved in combat. Tell us about a time when you felt fate/circumstances kept you from something you wanted.

Well, I really wanted dance lessons as a kid, and that never happened. There were a few jobs I really wished I'd gotten, but I wasn't. There were some guys... Honestly, I can't think of anything much recently, except for my boss to PAY ATTENTION! Really, after three years of talking about one issue at virtually EVERY MEETING we've had with him, he just last week figured out that everyone on staff is COMPLETELY FURIOUS about the way he has handled it. Even the cool, calm, moderate ones are pissed. The boss says he didn't understand the depth of people's annoyance. Duh?! Really? So, apparently, we have to shout to get his attention. smh

2) Bobby was trained as an altar boy and throughout his life regularly attended early morning mass. When is the last time you attended a worship service?

Two weeks ago? We'll probably go tomorrow too. Or, well, I will. Maybe Beast will. Sparky is unlikely to; he informed me last week he's a Satanist. I suspect he's poking the wasp nest to see if I'll flip out. I did come home and wiki myself up on the subject though. tbh, I'm not surprised; the general theory is something I can see him going for. ANYWAY, I don't think he's a "practicing" Satanist, in the sense of attending worship of any kind, since apparently that's not a thing. I dunno--I need more info from the boy.

3) He may have been an altar boy, but he was no angel. During junior high he was suspended for punching a classmate. Who is the last person who made you very, very mad?

Beast. And then myself for failing to stick to my program. And before that, my boss. In case you didn't notice after the first question.

4) He had his first date when he was a senior in high school. Looking back, Mary Bailey Gimble told Kennedy biographers that she knew he had a crush on her and wondered why it took him so long to ask her out. Tell us about one of your early crushes.

I never actually dated any of my crushes, thank the good Lord! I did kiss one of them though. He's on Facebook--and holy crap he's only gotten better-looking over the years! lol

5) Bobby's wife Ethel is as bubbly and talkative as he was introspective and shy. He was organized, she's messy. While opposites may attract, do you believe the happiest marriages are between partners who are more similar than different?

I do think that people have to have something they can share in common. But I also think that if two people are too similar it doesn't work either. It's extraordinarily complex.

6) By November 1960, when he was 35 years old, Bobby already had served as legal counsel to two Senate committees and run his brother's successful Presidential campaign. He was looking forward to a quieter life teaching law but gave in to family pressure to become President Kennedy's Attorney General. Tell us about a time when you were at a crossroads. Who influenced your decision?

Prayer and advice from people I trust. And some gut.

7) In 1777, Colonists celebrated July 4 with the firing of cannons and muskets, followed by a public reading of the Declaration of Independence. What is your neighborhood doing to observe the day?

Oh yeah, the fireworks started about 10 days ago. Last night they were going off until at least midnight. Tonight it will be later. We don't participate. We will probably grill brats and burgers tomorrow or Monday and have macaroni and cheese one night while Sparky's home. And we'll be able to see several towns' fireworks shows from our backyard if we want.

8) The Revolutionary War still raged during that summer of 1777. General George Washington allowed his soldiers to celebrate with a double ration of run rum on July 4. Do you know anyone who is serving in the military this 4th of July?

Nope. I know a couple of Guard members, but they're not currently serving.

9) Celebrity chef Rachael Ray says she considers mini-hamburgers, or "sliders," the All-American food. What will you be eating this 4th of July?

Oops, jumped the gun. We're probably ordering pizza tonight when Sparky gets here...or something. So there'll be leftovers. And the usual grilled stuff. And some corn.

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
Survey 212 Meme

Is your birth year an odd or even number?

It's only fitting that it's an odd year, no?

Which one of your friends is the most outgoing?

Probably Beast. No wait, T., at work, talks to E V E R Y O N E!

Have you eaten any of your favorite foods today?

Yup. Bacon. And donuts. And pancakes.

When did you last find yourself in an awkward situation?

Well, this morning when I realized 5 minutes into Sunday School that I was "the" teacher not the backup. So, punt: "What's Easter about?"

When was the last time you ignored, or went against, someone’s advice?

I can't think of a specific time lately, but I'm frequently the recipient of "suggestions" either from my older family members or from random patrons at work. I mostly ignore ALL of it these days and do my own thing.

What happened?

Since I can't remember any horrific outcomes, I'm assuming nothing at all.

How many different towns/cities have you lived in?

I have received mail in six towns, seven zip codes, and eight home addresses. Plus work, and post office boxes.

When was the last time you had Nutella?

Been awhile. I have some, but I have to be in the right mood for it.

Who is your favorite character in“The Big Bang Theory”?

I have never watched the show. On principle, though, I like Mayim Bialik a lot.

What are your parents’ middle names?

One was the first name of the narrator of a famous book by Louisa May Alcott. The other was the first name of the last--not the current--Prince Consort of England.

Name someone with a sexy sounding voice.

The guy who is reading my current book on CD is pretty awesome--I never, ever thought the Cajun accent was all that, but holy Joe...he's changing my mind. Also, Kathleen Turner.

Are your eyes the same color as your sibling’s?

I think my sister Marie and I have the same color eyes: hazel. My brother has blue eyes.

How many pets do you have? Would you like any more?

I have one guinea pig. I'd love a dog. But once this piggy is going, were done. I'm allergic to EVERYTHING furry, apparently.

Is there a song you can’t stop listening to atm?

I heard one this morning in the car called "Pacing the Cage" that I'm kind of obsessing about--never heard it before but the lyrics were interesting. Need to find it on Spotify.

Is there a song that you’re fed up of hearing?

Just about anything from the 80s that hit top 10. I listened to the radio (and watched MTV) a little too much back then....

Did you have a strange or interesting dream last night?

I didn't sleep all that well. I know I dreamed, but I don't remember anything.

Name 3 things that are in your refrigerator atm.

Leftovers, cheese, pop.

Which friend do you confide in most?

These days, Vickie.

What was your most recent reason for smiling?

Something silly that Beast just read me from his daily page calendar about beggars and cruisers.

Friday (or Saturday) 5

(Link in meme-roll)
Belly up to the Bar

1. What’s the Good News?

   So, in the church where I grew up, there was a part of the service the bulletin called The Good News of God's Forgiveness. When I grew up and moved on to other churches, they were still calling this, old school, Assurance of Pardon/Forgiveness/Mercy, but for me it will always and forever be the Good News:

   "Hear the good news!
   Who is in a position to condemn?
   Only Christ,
   and Christ died for us,
   Christ rose for us,
   Christ reigns in power for us,
   Christ prays for us."
   [...and cue the Gloria Patri...]

   The interesting thing is back when church was calling it Good News, wasn't really understanding it. Now that I'm older and have some context, hearing those words creates a little burst of relief mixed with gratitude.
   
   And I'm done proselytizing now!

2. When did you last Take 5, and how did you spend it?

   I spent about 15 minutes in bed this morning after I woke up working a Sudoku on my Nook--because I didn't have to get up!! Saturday, the only morning I can say that. Usually.

3. Who’s a Big Hunk?

   In the sense of Big Hunk of Stoopid, there are far too many candidates, but the obvious one for me is Trump. In the sense of adorable gorgeousness, there are also many candidates. I kind of have to go with The Rock. I don't find him sexy, but he is definitely hunkish and quite witty.

4. In what way has this week been a Rocky Road?

   Wednesday night into Thursday noon was not good, for all the usual (home) reasons, including my inability to STFU.

5. What’s something you’re keeping Skor on?

   I've been trying to keep a list of all the food I'm eating for the last week, and also testing my blood glucose. It's a BLAST! /sarcasm

Wednesday Hodgepodge

(Link in meme-roll)

1. What's your biggest 'first world' problem?

The fact that I have at this point purchased less than $20 worth of Christmas gifts for Beast. Sparky is relatively good to go. Beast...I have no ideas. None.

2. Each year Time Magazine names a 'Person of the Year', someone who has 'for better or worse...done the most to influence the events of the year.' It was recently announced they've named Angela Merkel Person of the Year for 2015. You can read more about this year's selection here. Your thoughts? If you were in charge, who would you declare Person of the Year?

I'm fine with their choice. Nice to see an non-American woman on the cover of a major, mainstream American magazine for something that doesn't involve makeup, fashion, or breast implants.

3. Do you have a nativity set in your home? If so share it's history and how you display the pieces.

Yes we have one. I painted all the figures about 20 years ago--they came as plain whiteware--and we bought a "stable" to house them. They go on the dining room dresser, except Jesus who doesn't appear till after Christmas Eve service at church.

4. Do you make an extra effort to give back in some way during the holiday season? How do you encourage those who need encouragement this time of year?

We usually deliver gifts for a local organization that gives Christmas gifts to every household in town that lives below the poverty line. If there are kids, each one gets a toy and a book. One of the Rotary Clubs puts it all together, with a lot of help, and this week is packing (tonight is toys and books, tomorrow is food) and Saturday is delivery. However, this year, I'm not sure we'll be able to help load out on Saturday because of Beast's whole back/shoulder thing. We'll have to play it by ear, just like every other freakin' thing in the universe right now.

5. Who is your favorite person to shop for? Why?

It's the most fun to shop for little kids. They just love everything!

6. What's the last delicious thing you ate?

The mashed potatoes with dinner tonight were pretty good.

7. The best way to spread Christmas cheer is _____________.

Smile and have a positive attitude.

8. Insert your own random thought here.

Two sick kids this week--not mine, only one family member--the kind of sick that involves hospitals, surgeries, and general long-term thinking rather than planning for tomorrow. Apparently, God is trying to tell me something about planning...and expectations, which was also part of the theme from last night's meeting.

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
Cookie Meme

Are any of your friendships on a fine line?

Does this mean, are they on the verge of imploding? If so, I don't think so. Maybe? I don't know. I hope not.

Have you ever witnessed a birth?

Yes. Well, sorta: I've been present for three human births. It's pretty damned amazing. And ridiculous. Isn't there a better way??

Where’s your favorite place to be when you feel depressed?

In bed, asleep or reading.

Are you currently looking forward to tomorrow?

Beast is going to the pain management doctor to see how soon he can get in for a cortisone injection in his spine. I'm looking forward to hearing that he can do that this week, preferably Tuesday at 6 a.m. or something unlikely of the sort.

When was the last time you held someone’s hand?

Today at church. We held hands in a big circle in the sanctuary and sang.

Have you ever faked sick?

Yes. I call them Mental Health Days.

Are you currently wearing jeans?

They are tan, but yes.

Have you gone to a coffee shop within the past week? [i.e. Starbucks]

Nope. I rarely do, since I rarely never drink coffee.

Would you like to be able to read thoughts?

Not really. Ugh.

Do certain swear words just roll off your tongue?

Like fuckin' buttah, yup.

Are you often the last one to understand a joke?

Sometimes.

Can experience be gained just by reading?

Yes, yes it can. It's the easiest way to experience lots of different things and come to understand situations you would never be in.

Does playing the guitar make a person more attractive?

Nooooo....? Being good at it and enjoying it a lot makes the person attractive, not the mere fact of holding a guitar.

Have you ever slept in a tent, indoors or out?

Of course. Outdoors. Who sets up a tent to sleep in inside?

What does your hair look like at the moment?

It's ok. Kind of windblown and spastic, but that's not out of the ordinary.

Are you mad right now?

No, I'm not. I'm tired. Very tired.

Who did you spend your summer with last year?

Last year? 2014? I have no idea. I think we probably just hung around here, just like this year.

Did you eat a cookie today?

I've had at least 5 cookies today. I go to that kind of church.

Sunday Stealing x 2

(Link in meme-roll)
That Alphabet Thing Meme

A: Accent --

I'm Midwestern, so I sound like everyone on TV.
OK, yes, I know that's not true, but I have definitely lost most of my western (Colorado-y) drawl.

B: Breakfast --

Usually a bagel with a couple of slices of cheese. We stopped at Bob Evans the other day on the way home and snagged a box of corn muffins on the way out, so I've had one of those the last couple of mornings. So good!

C: Chore you hate --

I hate doing anything with the floor: vacuuming, sweeping, mopping. Frustratingly unpermanent.

D: Dad's name --

He was named after his grandfather (and my brother's son is named after him). It is a name shared by a book of the New Testament and has been in the top 20 names for boys for the past 95 years, dropping more recently. In fact, up until 1980, it was in the top 5 every year.

E: Essential everyday item --

Glasses.

F: Flavor ice cream --

Peppermint or birthday cake.

G: Gold or silver --

Silver.

H: Hometown --

I grew up not too far from where I-70 and I-25 intersect. In fact, US highways 285 and 85 cross less than a mile from the house in which I grew up.

I: Insomnia --

Yes, you rang? ...
Every night.

J: Job title --

"Head of Technical Services" but actually a Reference Librarian also.

K: Kids --

Love 'em. They crack me up, and make me smile and generally hopeful for the future. I have one of my own, although he'll be 23 on his next birthday. On the other hand, my nieces and nephews are all reproducing now, so I have 7 great-nephews with two babies on the way, due in December-ish. They are all The Most Beautiful Kids in the World.

M: Mother's birthplace --

She was born in the same city in which she gave birth to me.

N: Number of significant others --

Just the one at the moment. Seems like plenty to me, or even one too many sometimes. ;-)

O: Overnight hospital stays --

Two overnight stays totaling 8 nights.

P: Phobia --

I'm not a huge fan of crowds.

Q: Quick at --

Alphabetizing.

R: Religious affiliation --

Presbyterian.

S: Siblings --

Once upon a time there were five of us. We're at three and holding now.

T: Time you wake up --

With an alarm, it runs between 5:45 and 7:30. Otherwise, whenever.

U: Unnatural hair colors --

I added some red to my hair for about 12 years until a few years ago. Since then it's been brown-turning-gray.

V: Vegetable you refuse to eat --

Brussels sprouts. They may be the reason I'm not interested in going to Belgium.

W: Worst habit --

Probably a pretty close race between biting my nails and jumping to conclusions.

X: X-rays --

Mostly dental. Some random torso stuff--do mammos and bone scans count?--and my throat (thyroid, parathyroid).

Y: Yummy --

Cookies!

Z: Zodiac sign --

I'm a Scorp.

___________________________________

Swiped Meme

1. Did someone die in that last movie you watched?

We went and saw A Walk in the Woods a couple of weeks ago. There were no deaths. Well, not exactly "none", but... OOPS? Spoiler alert? (hah) Pretty good, if you're an old fart.

2. Are the trees pretty colors outside for you now or at all?

Ours haven't started changing yet, but those around us are well on their way.

3. Have you ever made a bad first impression on someone's parents?

Probably. I have no idea. Not as a child--I was a good kid well into college. Now, I just don't try very hard unless their child is someone important to me.

4. When's the last time you video recorded something on TV?

We DVR a bunch of shows every week to watch later: CSI: Cyber, NCIS, NCIS:LA and NCIS:NO, Whose Line..., Deadliest Catch, and The Bait, SNL. Beast does Bill Maher's show and several car shows.

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

I wouldn't mind being a teacher, still, if I could just do the teaching part, not the paperwork and parent/admin bullshit.

6. What are your views on sunflowers?

I wasn't aware I needed to have a view on them. I like them. I like their seeds. They need to be planted far from walls or they tip over.

7. What is your favorite incense or candle scent?

"Clean" or vanilla works fine for me.

8. Caramel apples or candy apples?

Caramel always.

9. Have you ever walked into a wall?

I run into walls with shoulders, hips and legs semi-regularly. I ran full-tilt into a wall in gym class when I was 10 or so. Cuz I'm all coordinated like that.

10. Would you ever or do you make your dog wear a bandana?

I have done worse to my dogs in the past, but I no longer have a dog to dress up like Barbie.

11. Do you find dandelions when they're gone all white pretty?

Not particularly. By that point they look like they're weeds, IMO.

12. What makes you laugh?

Baby giggles, silly animals, Whose Line Is It?, puns (smart ones), unexpectedness.

13. The scariest moment of your life?

This past Wednesday was full of Scary. Basically, from 11 a.m. on was one hurdle after another, interspersed with frustration and boredom: figuring out the St. Louis Arch entrance amid the masses of construction, riding up to the top and looking down, waiting for Beast to come back for me in a rather shady-feeling part of town, hearing him say he might be having a heart attack, running to the urgent care to ask for help (their help? calling 911--that's it), driving a rental RV through downtown St. Louis, trying to find a parking place near a hospital I knew nothing about, waiting for treatment (for 5 hours), Beast being in so much pain he was on the verge of throwing up, walking to the parking lot (twice) in the dark in a not-great part of town, driving the RV back across town to an RV site and setting it up, sleeping alone in it, packing it up in the morning and driving BACK to the hospital.... Those were the highlights.

14. What’s the coolest thing you’ve bought lately?

I got some cute S&Ps before vacation went south. And a good overview book about Mary Lincoln.

15. What’s the worst you’ve had to do because of losing a bet?

I don't think I've ever made the kind of bet that requires me to do anything besides pay up. And I never gamble more than I'm willing to lose.

Sunday Salon

(Link in meme-roll)

Scene: Living room. 8:23 a.m. Beast is upstairs showering. We've checked in our sleep overnight and recovery from yesterday's moving day. Looks like a cloudy, potentially-rainy day outside.

Today's Plan: We're off to church in 20 minutes. Then home where I will rearrange what's left in Sparky's room, sort and start laundry, and clean the guinea pig cage. Beast needs to do the bills. We'll probably watch a race.

Drinking: I should just skip this one: the answer is always the same. Diet Dr. Pepper straight from the can.

Listening to: It's very quiet in the house: clock ticking, laptop keys tick-tacking as I type, and the laptop fan. I love living where it's quiet. I can hear Beast getting ready and feeding the piggies. He's got his usual "drainage cough" which he refuses to see a doctor about....

Participating in: The usual. I got a jury duty summons this week for the entire month of September; it's for grand-jury, rather than petit, which explains the longer time for service. Also, kinda more fun from my perspective.

Blogging about: The usual. Spending more time on Facebook and reading other people's stuff than writing my own. I did finish a couple of books this week, so I need to update the reviews on GoodReads and transfer them to the book blog.

Giving thanks for: I'm really pleased at the place Sparky moved into yesterday. It's very small but adorable and full of character. We got to meet one of his longest-term college friends--but not his roommate, weirdly, even though he was supposed to have been there "all day"--and I snuck in some religious quotes by lining his dresser drawers with wrapping paper with Bible verses. God's got his back, even though he doesn't seem to "need" God right now. So today is my first official full day as an Empty Nester.

Marmite and MARC

(From Amy)

Are you a good dresser?

I am far from fashionable. But I generally keep myself decently covered.

Are you religious?

Yes? I think. I don't know, lately I'm struggling with identifying as a Christian, but I do believe in God, and I do believe that Jesus acts as intercessor since we humans do nothing as well as fucking things up so we need saving.

What's the tallest building you've ever been up?

I've been to the top of the two tall buildings near the Big Lakes in the middle of the country. And I've ridden the London Eye.

Do you have any scars?

I'm 51. If I had somehow gotten to this age without any scars, it would have to be a miracle.

Do you like Marmite?

Because I know what it is made of, no. My British rellies have assured me that I'd hate it. Good enough 'recommendation' for me. At least one of them does enjoy it, however.

Are you scared of spiders?

Not where I currently live; they are mostly innocuous little fellows. Plus, Charlotte. But if I lived about 800 miles south, I'd probably have a few that I wouldn't want hanging around.

Can you down a pint (of anything) in one?

Sure. Water or something like that; in fact, I'm virtually certain I did that this morning.

Do you ever make your own greetings cards?

Nope. I mean, I have but not for decades.

Do you have a Swiss army knife?

I don't own one personally, no. Beast used to carry one everywhere, but that ended in early fall 2001. It's on his dresser. He travels too much.

What three things do you think of most each day?

How extremely irritated I am at work and when I'm going to ever catch up; why can't I sleep at night (on endless repeat between 12 and 5 a.m., whenever I wake up); MARC.

If you had a warning label, what would yours say?

"Contents Under Pressure"

Have you ever got sweet revenge on anyone?

I prefer to watch while nature takes its course.

Have you ever needed stitches?

Yeah a few times. No good stories: surgery and childbirth.

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
The Christmas Meme
from the archives

1. Do you send Christmas cards?

According to our Xmas Card List, we haven't sent any since 2010.

2. How soon do you start shopping?

I shop year 'round for stuff, but ramp it up in October or so.

3. Who do you shop for?

Beast, Sparky, and my great-nephews along with a few close friends, or people I see "the perfect thing" for, randomly.

4. Do you put up a Christmas tree?

Yes. It's finally been decorated all the way now that Sparky's home from college.

5. If so, is it fake or real?

Oh, it's fake. We haven't had a real tree in 15 years!

6. Do you like tinsel?

I do, but I really hate cleaning it up afterwards. I grew up calling garland "tinsel", by the way. If it sparkled, it was tinsel. Once I was in college I found our there was a difference.

7. Do you use homemade or store bought ornaments?

I've been collecting ornaments for over 40 years. Some are homemade, some are store-bought. We probably have a couple of hundred, which is RIDICULOUS. This year I'm trying hard to get rid of some stuff.

8. Do you put Christmas lights outside your house?

Nope.

9. Do you put lights on the tree?

Well, yes. It's a prelit tree, so....

10. How about popcorn and cranberries?

Nope. Always seemed pretty much like sending engraved invitations for vermin.

11. Is there a wreath hanging on your door?

There is! With my own bow, one of the dozen or so I have. See? Who needs a dozen bows??

13. Do you hang up your stocking?

Yup. All three are hung by the fireplace. With care, I guess.

14. Does your family read "Twas the night before Christmas?"

We own a couple of copies of it. I memorized it years ago and can probably get most of the way through it still. But it's my sister who collects different versions of it and has probably 50 books.

15. Christmas Movie?

Favorite? Whatever. I don't do these. For me, Christmas is NOT about all the commercial bullshit.

16. Character from any Christmas Movie:

Scrooge? Hah.

17. Christmas Song:

"Silent Night" although we sang "What Child Is This?" at church this morning and I was reminded how much I like that one too.

18. Christmas Memory:

The suspense and excitement of Christmas Eve when I was a kid, and when Sparky was little.

19. Give or Receive?

And, not or.

22. Ham or Turkey?

We have leftovers and sandwiches. I don't cook on Christmas.

24. White Lights or Colored Lights?

I prefer colored lights, but our prelit tree is all white. :(

25. Blinking Lights or Still Lights:

Still. God how I hate blinking lights!

26. Were you Naughty or Nice this year?

Yes.

27. What do you want for Christmas this year?

I really hope I get an actual gift from my son this year. He's getting too old for bullshit gifts that involve "I'll do a chore for you" certificates.

28. When do you open your gifts?

We used to open at least one on Christmas Eve and the rest in the morning. Now it's pretty much all morning.

29. What's the best gift you've ever gotten?

"Ever"? Wow. Perhaps the Revere Ware pots and pans about 25 years ago? That's certainly the most useful one I've gotten.

30. What's the worst gift you've ever gotten?

See the aforementioned certificate(s) from Sparky. They were cute when he was 8. Less so from a college student.

31. Who gives you the most gifts?

Beast. Obviously. ;-)

32. Have you ever had a secret Santa?

We did this when I first started working at MPOW 20 years ago. I hated it--I never knew the person whose name I drew because I worked about 16 hours a week. I was glad when we hired some guys and discontinued the practice.

33. Do you like wrapping gifts?

I don't mind wrapping box-shaped gifts, but oddball stuff gets bagged these days. I don't even try!

34. Do you put change in those red buckets?

Not anymore. I prefer to give my money to children more directly, or to organizations that are pro-EVeryone.

35. Do you burn a yule log?

Nope.

36. Can you name all the reindeer?

Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donder, and Blitzen. And of course Rudolph.

37. Do you bake cookies?

Nope.

38. Have you ever seen your mommy kissing Santa Clause?

Hah! My mommy WAS Santa Claus! Dad wasn't very into the whole Christmas thing at all. The first few times I heard that song I was SO confused, because how could Santa Mom be kissing...Mom??

39. Have you ever gotten a kiss under the mistletoe?

Yup. Lots. Not this year, however.

41. Do you drive around and look at the Christmas lights?

Sometimes. Depends on how long we can stretch dinner before church starts. We usually have Chinese on Christmas Eve and then do lights until late church starts.

42. Have you ever left Santa cookies?

Of course! Every year! Hmmm, I guess I need to get some at the store for this year. We leave carrots for the deer too. And Sparky left a note which "Santa" duly answered in rather runic writing so Sparky wouldn't recognize it as mom's....like I did.

43. Have you ever sat on Santa's lap?

Yes. A long long time ago.

44. Who do you celebrate Christmas with?

Just the three of us, usually.

45. Where do you celebrate Christmas?

In our living room. And, really, our hearts.

46. Have you ever had a white Christmas?

I would say about 50% of the time there's been snow. One year after unwrapping presents, Dad and I went out and shoveled snow for about 3 hours. We were buried that year, 1982 or 1983. It looks like this year will be unwhite--we're scheduled for rain (criminy) on Christmas Eve.

47. What part of Christmas do you look most forward to?

Putting Jesus in the crèche on Christmas Eve, and worship that night.

48. Have you ever had your picture taken with Santa?

See above re Santa's lap.

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
Waking Up in Vegas
Thanks to Cat. [me!] for recommending Katy Perry

1) As she sings about her night in Las Vegas, Katy wonders if she "got hitched last night dressed up like Elvis." Tell us about the last wedding you attended.

I... think it was a couple of years ago: our church secretary's youngest daughter--who was in our youth group the first year we were leading--got married. After the vows were said, the groom surprised her by singing a really lovely song to her. I didn't even know he was such a good singer!

2) Whenever Crazy Sam visits Las Vegas, she stays at the Paris Hotel and Casino. Have you ever been to Las Vegas, Nevada? What about Paris, France?

I have been to Vegas several times, and actually the last time I was there we stayed at Paris the first night. It was a very nice room, although the public areas are a bit ... rococo. Good crepes for breakfast, though! I haven't been to France. It's the one [western] European country I've zero interest in visiting.

3) Do you enjoy gambling? Have you had any success at it?

I lose with appalling regularity, but it's only money, and I only play (video poker) in Vegas.

4) Las Vegas is served by the RTC Bus Service and the Vegas Monorail System connects many of casinos on The Strip. When was the last time you rode a bus or a train?

We took the CTA bus in July when we were doing our anniversary getaway. While riding, we ended up chatting with the people next to us who were from Sheffield. England, that is. Turns out, the wife went to uni in the town where my sister Jean is buried. That was a weird moment....

5) It's not unusual for the mercury to hit 100º in Vegas in August. Which are you more comfortable in -- extreme heat or bone-chilling cold?

I don't mind Las Vegas-type heat (though 100 is getting close to unpleasant) since at least you sweat. However, it's much easier to deal with cold since you can at least put on more clothes. Still, given the option of freezing or baking, I'd pretty much rather bake.

6) As a little girl, Katy Perry sang nothing but gospel. Do you remember any church songs from your childhood?

Remember two things: 1) I went to Sunday School/Bible School from birth through high school, and then worked as the Christian Education intern two summers in college (so I taught Sunday School to all the kids all summer); and 2) You asked:

"This Little Light of Mine", "Jesus Wants Me for a Sunbeam" (omg, I just "listened" to the lyrics--how cloying!), "Sunshine Mountain" (what is with sun?), "Jesus Loves Me", "Hallelu, Hallelu, Hallelu, Hallelujah, Praise Ye the Lord", "I've Got the Joy, Joy, Joy, Joy Down in My Heart" (WHERE?),  "Deep and Wide", "Oh Be Careful Little Eyes What You See" (easily the one I hate most now), "Stand Up, Stand Up, for Jesus", "Rise and Shine", "Children, Go Where I Send Thee", "Swing Low, Sweet Chariot", "Father Abraham", "Jacob's Ladder", "Jesus Loves the Little Children", "Give Me Oil in My Lamp", "If You're Happy and You Know It", "The B I B L E", "Rejoice in the Lord Always", "The Wise Man Built His House Upon the Rock" (my favorite, I think), "Zaccheus", "Rejoice in the Lord Always", "Praise Him, Praise Him, All the Little Children", "He's Got the Whole World in His Hands", and of course the songs we learned the books of the Bible to.

7) [Katy] made her film debut as the voice of Smurfette in The Smurfs (2011). Who is your all-time favorite cartoon character?

Mighty Mouse is pretty high on the list. So is Underdog. And my favorite paper cartoon character is Opus by quite a long margin.

8) Do you consider yourself a picky eater?

Not really, though if I really don't like something, I simply won't eat it. I'd rather go hungry, which is just fine with me (and for me, probably!)

9) You receive an invitation to a party that starts at 7:00 PM. When will you arrive?

Somewhere between 6:50 and 7:10. I live in the midwest where "7:00 Start" means just that. If you're late, you lose.

Thursday 13

Things Starting with I

1. Imps. This word reminds me of a friend who uses it as a 'handle' online. It's made up of the initials of all the members of her household.
2. Insipid. There is a lot of this in the world. Mostly it doesn't bother me, but sometimes I just want to scream at Teh Stoopud.
3. Indexer. One career I briefly considered. I imagine there are still people who specialize in this, but there can't be many now that computers do the actual work. Too bad. It sounds like fun.
4. Inverness. Possibly one of the prettiest cities in the U.K., especially on warm summer nights.
5. Iatrogenic. I recently learned the meaning for this word. It's definitely not something you want to hear at the doctor's office, or the hospital. But quite often you will experience iatrogenic reactions to medication. One can hope they are mild.
6. Idle. I idle away far too much of my time. It's not good.
7. Insects. There's a 6-year-old boy who visits the library semi-regularly with his mom--an employee--who has made it a habit of coming to visit me to take the plastic bugs out of my desk so he can "scare" the Head of Circ by arranging them on her desk. I need to restock; some of them have disappeared. I'm hoping to last till Halloween.
8. Icing. The best part of the cake. No contest.
9. Invalid. Interesting how this can be pronounced two different ways that mean such completely different things. ...or not, I guess... Probably why one of the pronunciations is now considered extremely non-P.C.
10. Islam. Consider this challenge: make a list of every single thing you 'know' about Islam. Then double check. Probably mostly what you 'know' isn't true, assuming your list even has anything on it.
11. Intellectual. I think I hang around with too many people with big brains. It may be making me into a snob. I hope not; I fight it.
12. Island. I would love to own one. Of course, it has to be one with all mod cons, including internet and trash pickup, and a not-too-complicated way to rejoin the world when I'm ready.
13. Inspire. In the past week, at least two people at work have said that something I did or said inspired them to do something. What? Well, one of them has said over and over that because I stopped coloring my hair she has felt emboldened to do the same. Since she's got me by at least 12 or 13 years, and since she did her own hair-dying, it's only right that she let it grow out. Still, she doesn't know what to do with it now, and that's too bad. [I don't remember what the other 'inspirational' thing was...surely something equally important.]

Sunday Stealing

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

What is your ring size?

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

How often do you wear jewelry?

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

When was the last time you consumed alcohol?

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

Any big plans for the summer?

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

What is your favorite comfort food?

Macaroni and cheese with iced sugar cookies for dessert.

Do you prefer broccoli or asparagus?

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

What color are your bedroom walls?

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

With whom do you live?

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

Which Star Wars movie is your favorite?

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

How about Harry Potter?

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

What was the last movie you saw in theaters?

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

Did you get the popcorn or candy?

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

What is the most romantic text in your inbox?

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

Have you ever played miniature golf on a date?

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

What's a phrase you overuse?

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

Do you always use good grammar?

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

Do you have an accent or a speech impediment?

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

What did you eat today?

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

What do you do at work?

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

Do you know the rules to any sports?

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

Do you prefer to watch or play sports?

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

What is your favorite kind of hat to wear?

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

Do you pray?

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

To whom do you pray?

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

What is the closest mountain to your house?

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

What size engine is in your vehicle?

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

What do you need to do tomorrow?

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

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
Who Are you? Part 3 & 4 – Is it over yet?

Part 3: Past
34. What do you consider the most important event of your life so far?

The one that changed me the most was the five years from 1993 through 1997. Baby, move to a new state and no outside-the-home employment, death of two family members, surgery, other medical issues. It sucked, but wow did I learn a lot.

35. What do you consider your greatest achievement?

Surviving all that without getting stuck in the middle of things (for too long).

36. What is your greatest regret?

That I didn't spend more time with Ellen before she died, and that I didn't take more (and better) photos of Sparky with my dad before he died.

37. What is the most evil thing you have ever done?

My evil doings tend to be fairly small-scale, but (unfortunately) daily. The one thing I wish I could undo is not being very nice to a very strange girl in my high school English classes.

38. When was the time you were the most frightened?

I have the gift of not being aware of how out-of-control dangerous a situation really is until after I've extricated myself, or someone else has extricated me. Probably the one time I was in the most danger physically was when I slid off a wet road in the rain a few years ago, tore through a farmhouse's front yard, avoided the massive tree trunks, and got back up on the road surface with no damage to anything but their lawn. I did have to pull over for a few minutes and gather my wits before I could continue home.

39. What is your best memory?

I'm fortunate to have too many from which to choose.

Part 4: Beliefs And Opinions
40. Are you basically optimistic or pessimistic?

Optimistic for the most part, with a strong self-protective cynical streak.

41. What is your greatest fear?

Any of my recent dreams coming true. Not that they've been particularly bad, though a few have been, but they have all been so completely strange that if they actually occurred, it would mean that I'd have gone completely crazy.

42. What are your religious views?

To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with God.

43. State a random opinion?

Does it have to be my random opinion? ;-)
I think it's pretty hypocritical for those who are voting to decrease government spending to get upset when their personal benefits get cut.

44. What are your views on sex?

I'm for it.

45. Are you able to cook?

There's some question of that, but tonight's dinner was pretty damn good: black bean bake with cheesy tortillas baked inside.

46. In your opinion, what is the most evil thing any human being could do?

Forget that any one of the rest of us are human too.

47. Do you believe in the existence of soul mates and/or true love?

Don't really think I believe in soul-mates. I definitely believe in love of all kinds.

48. What do you believe makes a successful life?

Being able to see possibilities for good in any situation and working to make it occur.

49. How honest are you about your thoughts and feelings?

Mostly, I'm very honest. Too honest, many would say. I'm what you might call "excitable." Or worse...

50. Do you have any biases or prejudices?

Of course I do. Who doesn't? I try to be aware of them. Sometimes I don't realize they're there until I say or do something completely stupid, though.

51. Is there anything you absolutely refuse to do under any circumstances? Why do you refuse to do it?

I don't think I could carry out a long-term, planned assault on an innocent person. I probably couldn't kill anyone, unless it was heat-of-the-moment and in the course of defending myself or my loved ones. I could NOT plot out any kind of demeaning, hurtful, torture for someone, though. Not for real.

52. Who or what, if anything, would you die for (or otherwise go to extremes for)?

I would hope that I'd be willing to die to protect my loved ones, and the beliefs for which I stand.