Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)

It All Depends On You (1959)

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

1) In this song, Shirley Bassey sings that she could be happy or sad. As you answer these questions, do lean more toward happy or sad?

I'm ok. I don't feel great today, but mood stabilizers are fully engaged, so no tears and no maniacal laughter or shouting.

2) She tells us that she can save money or spend it. Do you try to stick to a budget?

I pay the bills and buy what I need to get by. Everything else is gravy. I just don't like to spend money.

3) By the time Shirley Bassey recorded "It All Depends on You," it was already an oldie, written back in 1926. Can you think of a song, book, or movie that you enjoy today that you believe audiences will relate to 2125?

Bold of you to expect society not to implode in the next 100 years... 
I'd guess the religious books will continue on: Torah/Talmud, Christian scriptures, Qu'ran, Bhagavad Gita. They've made it this far after all.

4) Though she has risen to the title Dame Commander of the British Empire (DBE), her childhood allowed her little education. She dropped out at 15 and got a factory job to help her family. How old were you when you got your first full-time job? What was it?

First permanent full-time job was when I was 24. I worked full-time during summers in college, and part-time pretty much starting at 16 till 24. That job was my first job as a librarian. It was 1988 and I was stoked to be earning a cool $20,000/year. 

5) A favorite of the Royal Family, Shirley performed at the Queen's Diamond Jubilee Party at Buckingham Palace. How would you like to celebrate your next anniversary or birthday? Are you in the mood for a big blow out, or would you prefer something low key?

Low key. It's going to be a rough one this year. Possibly permanently going forward. No Beasty to celebrate joint Birthday Week for the first time in 40+ years.

6) Madame Tussaud's has two wax figurines of Shirley – one in London and a second in Las Vegas. Do you enjoy wax museums, or do you think they're creepy?

I think they are creepy, thought I've never visited one in person.

7) In 1959, when this song was popular, most women wore nylons on a daily basis and the average price per pair was $1. What socks or leg wear – if any – do you have on right now?

Naked feet! I can't stand stuff on my feet anymore; incipient neuropathy is weird.

8) Also in 1959, Alaska became our 49th state. Today, cruise lines showcase Alaska on 4- or 7-night cruises. What do you consider the perfect length for a vacation trip? Is a 3-day weekend too short? Are two weeks away from home too long? What's your ideal?

It fully depends on how far away I'm going and how much I'm spending on travel. If I'm going to the Big City nearby, a few days is plenty. If I'm going over an ocean, book me for a few weeks please. 

9) Random question: Which cable channel would you watch more often – one that shows nothing but classic sitcoms, or one that shows nothing but new movies? 

Of those two options, I'd rather watch (some) old sitcoms. Movies do not interest me much.

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)

Since U Been Gone (2005)

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

 

1) In this song, Kelly Clarkson is dissatisfied with her relationship and she's moving on. What's something you've moved on from lately? It could be anything from a romance to the laundry detergent you've been using for years.

I stopped being so concerned with tidying up the house before the cleaning crew arrives. Eventually, I'll have things sorted more completely, but right now there are boxes and stacks of Beast's things everywhere that I can't face.

2) She sings that she can now breathe. Studies have shown that July can be a good month for allergy sufferers because trees and grasses are no longer pollinating. How are your eyes, ears, nose and throat this morning?

I'm allergic to corn pollen so as soon as the spring BS settles down, the corn starts its thing and I'm miserable pretty much till the first hard freeze. I live in the world's largest corn field. 

3) Kelly complains that their romance reminds her of a "stupid love song." Let's be more positive: what love song do you associate with positive memories?

I heard Walking on Sunshine for the first time in eons this week and it reminded me of Beasty and I in college when we spent our summers writing writing writing letters to each other.

4) While Kelly's first love is music, she's established herself as a TV personality. In addition to her daytime talk show, she's been a judge on The Voice and hosted an awards show. Have you ever been on TV?

Yes, as a member of a marching band in the Tournament of Roses Parade in 1980.
And never again.
Which is more than fine with me.

5) She has confessed a weakness for Doritos. Would we find salty snacks in your kitchen right now?

I've got a partially-emptied bag of popcorn chips right next to me right now, and a barrel of pretzel rods nearby (thanks, Beast for getting me addicted to these!), and I think there's another bag of something in the snack drawer in the kitchen. I really need to clean that out... [the drawer, not the 'bag of something']

6) Kelly has found her weight the source of public debate. Are you like Kelly, whose weight fluctuates? Or does it stay stable?

I used to be the skinniest kid in the universe. Then I got pregnant at 29 and now weigh 60 lbs. more than just before Sparky was born. Oh well. 

7) In 2005, when this song was popular, a motorist made news in Texas when he was ticketed for driving over 200 mph in a 75 mph zone. Have you ever been pulled over by the police?

Of course I have, but nothing like this. There's a village nearby that used to be a notorious speed trap and they got me once for doing 50 in a 40 zone.
Within the last year a cop pulled me for not fully stopping at the stop sign by the train station on my way home. Warning.
Then there was the time just after Beast moved into Nursing Home from Hell that I got stopped because my license plate was expired. I was within the month and the cop told me to just go get it fixed after I told him where I had just been.
Oh, and back in my young-and-dumb days I was accosted outside my mom's workplace for blowing through a four-way stop by a daycare. The cop read me out, asked why I was parked where I was and when I told him I was picking up my mom he demanded her name, after which he shooed me away with a stern warning. Oh, did I mention my mom worked at the County Courthouse? And he was very familiar with her? He followed me into the building to check my story.
After Beast got popped for a DUI, I was stopped because the car's license was on the state's auto-reader alert. Once he realized I was not Beast, he let me carry on. I offered him an Arby's curly fry in thanks.

8) Also in 2005, Tom Cruise had a pop culture moment when he famously jumped on a sofa. Do you remember where he did this?

I did not see it live, but it was on Oprah. Probably a moment he wishes he could delete from his memory banks... He's a ridiculous man.

9) Random question: Tell us about a photo you wish you'd taken, but didn't.

I have a terrible photo of my dad with Sparky as a baby about a month before Dad passed away. It was the only time they were together and he was doing his patented "soda pop" trick to Sparky's glee. Unfortunately, the sun was behind him and so it's completely washed out. I wish I'd've taken more pics with the two of them, since Sparky is the first kid (5 kids, 9th grandchild) in his lineage to get the auburn hair he had as a young man. 

Well shit now I'm all weepy over my dad...30 years later.

Saturday 9 (x3)

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June 19

I Fall in Love Too Easily (1945) 

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

1) In this song, Dinah Shore admits that her impetuous romances don't work out. Do you consider yourself impulsive?

I'm very impulsive. I plan and plan and it goes out the window as soon as my feet touch the ground. Used to drive Beasty nuts.

2) The songwriting team of Sammy Cahn and Jule Styne composed this in a single evening. Since the song is rather short Sammy considered adding another verse, but Jule thought better of it, saying, "No. That's it." Are you more like Sammy and keep revising, tinkering and tweaking? Or, like Jule, do you find it easy to leave well enough alone?

I like finishing projects, because I'm very bad at maintaining my focus to actually do so regularly. I just lose interest. I tend to get lost in the details and drift off into chaos.

3) The song was introduced in Anchors Aweigh, a movie about two sailors who find love during a two-day leave in New York. Have you ever enjoyed a romance while on holiday?

If I bring my husband, then yes. Otherwise, no. This is not why I'm on holiday. 

4) Though Frank Sinatra sang the song in the movie, Dinah's version was also popular. Her record sales in the 1940s were boosted by concerts, radio appearances and performances for the troops. What singer who is no longer with us do you wish you could have seen in concert?

I would have like to have seen why people got so freakin' WIRED at "The Rite of Spring" the first time Shostakovich performed it.

5) Dinah was shy with new people, but discovered as a high school cheerleader that she was good in front of a crowd. Give us one of your high school cheers.

"Ice cold beer!
Makes you wanna cheer!
Ice cold Duck!
Makes you wanna ...

Lean to the left, lean to the right, stand up, sit down, fight fight fight!"

6) She loved golf and was so good at it, she became the first woman admitted as a member to the prestigious Hillcrest Country Club in Los Angeles. What's your best sport? 

At this point I am an EXCELLENT spectator of (American) football.

7) Dinah found her greatest success in television. She was so popular for so long that she was able to afford a luxury home, built to her specifications, in Palm Springs. Leonardo DiCaprio now owns it. Do you know who lived in your home before you moved in?

My house was a farm field before it we moved into it. 

8) In 1945, when this song was popular, Abbott and Costello appeared in the movie The Naughty Nineties, which featured their famous "Who's On First" routine. Do you know it?

Never fails to crack me up, even though I can recite most of the beginning with them. 

9) Random question – Fill in the blank: After all these years, I still ____________.

...don't know what to do with myself most of the time.

Saturday 9

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I Will See You in C-U-B-A (2010)

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

This song was chosen in honor of Father's Day.

 

1) In this week's song, Lucie Arnaz encourages us to hop a ship and join her in Cuba. Is your passport up to date?

Weirdly, we were talking about this at work on Thursday. I think my passport is due to expire in 2027. Or maybe next year. I should probably check. One of the many things I should do.

2) She sings that Cuba is a great place to enjoy wine and Panatelas. Do you like the smell of a good cigar?

I actually do. A GOOD cigar, outside, or the smell on a winter coat is very homey. A bad cigar is grounds for murder. 

3) Lucie said her Latin Roots CD represents "the rhythms of my soul" and is a tribute to her father, Desi Arnaz. Cuban-born Desi starred on Broadway and in nightclubs but was best known for co-starring in and producing the 1950s sitcom, I Love Lucy. When you think of I Love Lucy, what's the first thing that comes to mind?

Lucy's crying -- 'waaaah waaah' -- which is an interesting commentary on what we used to think was funny.

4) While Lucie's parents – Desi Arnaz and Lucille Ball – are famous for their TV work, Tony-nominated Lucie has found her greatest success on the stage. She inherited their love of performing, saying, “My parents were always happiest when they were working.” What have you inherited from one or both your parents? (It could be anything from your work ethic to your eye color.)

My dad's side of the family has Very Strong Genes: three of the five kids look just like him physically. Since all three of those kids are/were girls, that's not necessarily great. My brother looks like Mom's side, more and more as he ages. 
To be slightly deeper, we were all instilled with a desire to be the best at whatever we did, which is good...until it becomes neurotic.

5) Though "Ricky Riccardo" often mangled English on I Love Lucy, Desi's English was very good. Lucille Ball admired his facility with languages and encouraged him to speak Spanish to their children so that they would be bilingual. When you were growing up, did your family speak any language other than English?  

Some would argue we barely spoke English! My parents were all about speaking properly (I remember being scolded for saying "liberry" when I was quite young), but their pronunciation was decidedly questionable ("warsh", "piz-za" (z's, no 'ts' sound -- sounds like the city in Italy). 

6) Desi Arnaz often performed "I Will See You in C-U-B-A." Is there a song that reminds you of your father?

There are two: "Mairzy Doats" and "The Hokey-Pokey." I teased my dad whenever he complained about my "loud noise" (i.e. music) by singing "Mairzy Doats" all the way through. He also had a whole routine he did around "Bill Grogan's Goat." 
He's currently furious (I can hear him yelling from heaven!) that I'm not naming any hymns, so I'll throw in "How Great Thou Art" and "Joy to the World." 

7) After Lucie's parents divorced, Lucille Ball remarried and Lucie got a stepfather, Gary Morton. Lucie appreciated how positive Gary always was about Desi. Decades later, when she married a man who already had children, Lucie said she better understood what a tough role stepparent can be. Did you have a stepparent? Are you a stepparent? 

I have no step-parents, nor am I one. I am, however, quite proud of being "Mom #2" for a multitude of kids I knew when I was teaching Sunday School, running Youth Group, babysitting, working with. I love all 'my' kids. As I get a little older, I find it interesting how many of these kids (now adults) have come to me to vent about their 'actual' parents, or at least for advice on how to deal with them. 

8) As a single dad, Desi lived south of Los Angeles in Del Mar. Lucie and her brother, Desi Jr., spent school vacations there, going to the race track, bowling, and fishing with their dad. Share a happy memory from one of your school vacations (Christmas, Spring Break, or Summer).

It's been a long time since my childhood, and while it was not a perfectly, endlessly wonderful one, distance (and comparison) has made it look damn good. I loved jumping rope and playing jacks and creating little neighborhoods for my brother's toy cars to park in; vacations were endless and stressful and occasionally even fun.

9) Father's Day began in Washington state. In the early 1900s, Spokane resident Sonora Smart Dodd listened to her minister deliver a sermon celebrating Mother's Day and devoted herself to similarly honoring fathers. A century later, more money is still spent annually on Mother's Day. Why do you suppose that nationally we still make more of a fuss over Mother's Day than Father's Day?

School is in session for Mother's Day, not so for Father's Day. Also, so many of my peers in school had divorced parents making it harder to get buy-in from both parents to support each other that I think dads have gotten short shrift. I'm not a Man's Rights person, but I do think the patriarchy has a lot to answer for in this area, in the 'erasing' of fathers as important and the glorification (but no support for) mothers.

Saturday 9 (x2)

(Link in meme-roll)

Hold On (1990)

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Too Shy (1983)

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

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

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

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

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

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

"Shenanigans."  Also, "boooolllshiiiitttt." 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)

American Soldier (2003)

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

Memorial Day is a federal holiday that honors men and women who served and died in the United States Armed Forces. We want to make sure that message is not lost this weekend.

1) Are you a veteran? Are there veterans in your family? Do you know anyone who is active military? We are grateful and want to hear about it.

My dad served in WWII stateside. FIL was in the Army during the Korean War (or is it still a "conflict"?) but he was in Germany for the duration. Neither saw combat, for which I remain very grateful. My former lawn-mowing neighbor kid is in the Marines. Otherwise, I don't seem to run the same gang with a lot of soldier/sailor/flyer folks. 

Oh! My sister WORKED on an army base in Germany as the daycare supervisor for several years in the 90s. Not in the army, just at the army. 

2) In this song, Toby Keith reminds us soldiers "work straight through holidays," even this one, and we are grateful for that, too. Have you ever had to work on a federal holiday? If yes, did it make you sad to be on the job when everyone else was celebrating?

I have traditionally worked on a lot of federal holidays. The 'only' official days off we are closed are Christmas, New Year's Day, Easter, Memorial Day, Labor Day, July 4 and Thanksgiving. All others the library is open for business, although we do occasionally close early on Xmas Eve or NY Eve.

It's not hard or sad to be at work when everyone else is partying anymore. I'm used to it after 35 years and we always adjusted to having whatever party it was on a day when I don't work, or Beast and Sparky went without me, which is  fine with me.

3) The video for this song was filmed at Edwards Air Force Base. This site was chosen to make it easier for off-duty soldiers, reservists and their families to appear. Have you ever visited a military base?

See above re sister working in Germany. That's it. We aren't big Armed Forces folks. My dad was not thrilled about life in the Army, and my brother was 'of age' during Vietnam so he did whatever he could to not be drafted.

4) Toby Keith never served in the military but often performed for the USO. While the USO is best known for providing entertainment to our troops, they also have a "Canine Comfort Crew." Local USO centers make dogs available to troops who long to see a wagging tail. Are you a dog lover?

I love dogs. Almost all my immediate neighbors have dogs, big 'uns, and I know them better than the people living in the houses. I've owned a couple of dogs over the years (one at a time) and would have loved to have more, but it turned out that I'm allergic. And now I'm just too lazy to have a dog; I'd be in better shape if I had to entertain and walk a furball.

5) Memorial Day kicks off the summer season. What's your favorite picnic food? 

Today, I would pretty much murder someone for my mom's potato salad. None better! But I'm also up for whatever you're serving at a picnic.

6) Let's welcome summer with ice cream. What's your favorite flavor? Cone or cup?

I do not like chocolate ice cream. Vanilla with some chocolate syrup or sprinkles is fine, but I really prefer peppermint. Or birthday cake. OK, well, honestly, I'd eat any gelato you put in front of me because GELATO! In a cup. Always.

7) This marks the weekend when Americans step up their outdoor activity and do things they may not have been able to do during the winter months. For example, when is the last time you applied mosquito repellent?

I simply do not go outside long enough to need this in years. Much as I love summer, I'm allergic to everything else alive out there, so I run from building to building, car to car, etc. with only very occasional forays onto the front porch or middle of the street to chat with a neighbor.

8) Or swam?

I don't can't swim. There is a (man-made) lake for which my town is named, but it is ill-advised to get in the water without a lot of precautions, even if I had access to it, which I don't. 

9) As you answer these questions, is there an air conditioner or fan on? 

The house fan is on because my brother cleaned out all his water containers from his RV this morning so I'm moving the air around to make sure the smell doesn't permeate. I could turn it off, but I forgot to after he left earlier. Otherwise, it's too cold outside for cooling on the inside. As I sit here, I'm wearing a fleece over a T-shirt, all-weather pants, and my bare feet have lost all feeling in them due to cold (and poor circulation). In fact, I was considering going up to take a shower after I finish this so I can warm up.

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)

Nothing's Gonna Stop Us Now (1987)

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

1) In this song, Gracie Slick challenges, "Let them say we're crazy!" Tell us about something you're glad you did, even though your friends or family may have advised you against it.

Oh, jeez, almost everything I've done that's fun someone has warned me against doing. Or at least looked askance at me. Good thing I tend to be risk-averse unless challenged! I'm glad I went overseas my junior year of college to (what was then) the U.S.S.R. and China, and Mongolia. The reward was going to Italy at the end, which got me through some awful moments in assorted Soviet airports. No one thought this was a good idea, including me, but I was dared so my big mouth got me behind the Iron Curtain. And my risk-aversion got me back out. 😀 

2) Slick is the lead singer of Jefferson Starship. This band got its start in 1965 as Jefferson Airplane but updated their name in 1974. Part of their reasoning was that by the 1970s, airplane travel was commonplace. In 2023, an estimated 820 million Americans flew domestically. When was your most recent flight? When is your next one?

Sparky and I flew to Phoenix a year ago last February just to get the hell out of Gray Frozen Darkness for a weekend. It was the first time we'd been on a plane in 5+ years. The trip there was not comfortable at all, the flight home was better (and I got to see the Barbie movie!), but the whole traveling thing was nerve-wracking.
We're heading East this fall, but I think we'll drive, even though it'll be a long three-day drive. We have business to take care of in Maine.

3) Songwriter Albert Hammond said the song was inspired by his divorce. After years of legal wrangling, he was finally free to marry his long-time, long-suffering girlfriend. They're still married today. What is something you waited a long time for? Was it worth the wait?

Waiting for children (child in my case) to reach adulthood feels like a kabillion years, and then once they're legal adults it feels like no time at all. 

4) Albert Hammond is perhaps best known as the one-hit wonder who sang, "It Never Rains in Southern California." Is rain expected where you are today?

Nope, no rain today. We're in a pattern of wind and cold with some general gloom. I'm NOT wearing socks anymore though! It's spring (despite the 55-degree F high today) dammit! I'm also glad not to have to have AC going too, though. 

5) He co-wrote the song with Diane Warren. In January, she lost her home to the Los Angeles fires. When a friend is confronted by heartache or tragedy, what can you say or do for them? What shouldn't you say or do?

Let them tell you what they need, unless they seem stuck in "freak-out mode." NEVER say, "I know just how you feel" or anything of the sort. I promise, even if you went through the same scenario, you do NOT know how they are feeling. Silence and hugs, listening more than talking. All of which is really hard. For me.

6) "Nothing's Gonna Stop Us Now" was the love theme to the romantic fantasy Mannequin. In that movie, a department store mannequin comes to life and falls for a struggling artist. While it was a moderate success at the box office, the gritty Vietnam drama Platoon was a much bigger hit. When you sit down to watch a movie, what genre would you prefer (fantasy, romance, comedy, drama, etc.)?

I want a comedy with some action, not lowbrow stupidity. I don't see too many movies anymore because they irritate me, and I get fidgety and bored sitting still so long. Late-onset ADHD? Sparky curates my movie-viewing these days. Last up was the last Deadpool movie, which was pretty close to the perfect sweet spot. I guess some would say this is lowbrow stupidity, but at least it wasn't Adam Sandler. 
(Incidentally, I ever saw Mannequin--though I love the lead actor--but I did sit in a theater full of Vietnam Vets to see Platoon. Like full, need-an-usher-to-find-an-empty-seat full.)

7) In 1987, when this song was popular, Aretha Franklin became the first woman inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Aretha was proud of her Detroit roots. Have you been to Michigan? If yes, where did you go?

I have been to Michigan a couple of times, to East Lansing once and to Windsor once. I have been told the Detroit airport is pretty dope but haven't ever needed to stop there.
But can we talk about taking until 1987 to honor a woman in rock and roll? When it was Rosetta Tharpe who "invented" it??? Men piss me off so much, so hard, so often.

Incidentally, it took me awhile to figure out why we were talking about Michigan instead of Ohio because the HoF is in Cleveland. 

8) In 1987, the Chevy Corvette made news by adding a low tire pressure light to its dashboard. When you're driving and a yellow warning light comes on, do you handle the issue promptly? Or is it something you'll get to when you get around to it?

lol  My check engine light has been on for at least 2 years now. The car is also 14 years old. If a different light came on, I'd handle it fairly quickly, but My Car Guy told me to just ignore the engine light so I'm following his directions. I need a new car, but there is literally not enough time to think about that right now.

9) Random question: A magic mirror reflects your appearance five years from today. Would you look at it?

I don't even look properly in the mirror much daily. I'm sure I'll be another half-centimeter shorter, far grayer, and just as blind. Honestly, if I had to pick me out of a crowd, I'm not sure I could do it.

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)

Mama Liked the Roses (1970)

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

1) In this song, Elvis tells us his mother loved tending the roses in the garden. Do you have a green thumb?

I do not. I have been entrusted with four five thriving containers of plants recently and so far I seem to have only managed to destroy one plant in one of them. There's another that's not looking real healthy but I think that's just temporary. 
My mother, however, could make lumber sprout green shoots just about. We had a jungle of plants in our living room and, yes, dozens of rosebushes in the yard. To this day, the scent of roses reminds me of my childhood yard and Mom (she didn't wear perfume). 

2) Mama would put the roses in a vase in the living room. Do you have cut flowers in your home right now?

Nope. They all got tossed last week. I have a bunch of empty vases I don't know what to do with. I mean, actually, I need to take them back to the florist that's on my way to work, possibly along with several others from previous floral tributes.

3) Elvis sings that he found Mama's rose petals pressed in the family Bible. Have you ever pressed petals in a book? If yes, what occasion were you commemorating?

I have! I pressed my high school graduation corsage in my diary! I should dig that out and see how they're doing 45 years on.

4) OK, so now we know Mama liked roses. What about you? Would you prefer white, pink, yellow or red roses?

I do not care about the color. I do care if they actually smell good. No smell-less roses allowed, so (ergo) none from flower shops. It's hard to find roses with scent these days....

5) Elvis' own mother, Gladys Presley, had a major impact on pop culture. When her son was 11, he asked for either a rifle or a bicycle for his birthday. She deemed the rifle too dangerous and the bike too expensive, and so he chose a guitar instead. The rest is history. Tell us about a special birthday gift from your youth.

I don't remember any specific birthday gift. My parents were ultra-practical, so it was mostly clothes or office supplies (stationery, books, etc.). I think I got a necklace one year?  

6) Abraham Lincoln credited his stepmother, Sarah, for her lasting influence on his life, saying she ignited his love of reading and learning. Tell us about a woman -- mother, stepmother, grandmother, aunt, Godmother, teacher, neighbor -- who changed your life for the better.

Good Lord there are dozens from with to choose! So many good teachers, and so many older-than-me relatives, several younger-than-me relatives, and friends.... I'm going to talk about Venus--yes, her real name--who was in her 60s when I met her and VERY non-Venus-like. She was a smart, no-nonsense, loving Texas native here in the upper Midwest who never met a stranger. I once asked her when she was going to retire from all her post-retirement activities; she basically told me she'd retire when the people she was feeding, helping, "doing for," no longer needed to be fed or helped. Shut me right up. She was fearless, kind, blunt. She always seemed to fill up the room while probably being only about 5'2" tall.

7) Mother's Day is almost upon us. According to the National Restaurant Association, we like to eat out on this holiday, with revenue up more than 80% on Mother's Day weekend. When did you last dine at a restaurant? Was it a special occasion?

I eat breakfast at Wendy's fairly often (drive-thru), but the last sit-down place I think I ate was the new tenant in the City's Last Boondoggle--a lengthy story I'll maybe talk about someday--which was delicious. Sparky's feeding me tomorrow too, at a (pseudo) Irish Pub.

8) Candles are a big seller for Mother's Day, too. What's your favorite candle scent?

I like clean smells, less perfume-y. Pine is good. Sandalwood is good. Gardenia is very much not good.

9) Sam is celebrating Mother's Day with her mother's favorite, Hershey Bars. Would you prefer classic milk chocolate, dark chocolate or chocolate with almonds?

I'm not that fussy, but I really don't care for dark chocolate. Actually, I am a little fussy: I like European chocolate over American. I got a big nasty mouthful of something American recently that really did a strong vomit taste, which kinda killed that brand for me.

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)

Georgia on My Mind (1978)

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

1) This lyrics refer to "an old sweet song." What old sweet song is a favorite of yours?

I've had Ollabelle's "All is Well" running around for weeks now. 

2) Composer Hoagy Carmichael said he was inspired by saxophonist Frankie Trumbauer to write a song about Georgia. In those days, bands traveled by bus and Frankie enjoyed rolling through Georgia. Hoagy recalled that Frankie even volunteered the first two words, "Georgia, Georgia ..." If we were to organize a Saturday 9 bus trip, where would you recommend we go for lovely scenery?

We can head north about 20 minutes to a lovely lake with enormous mansions on the shore and a dedicated walking path that circles the complete lakeshore. 

3) This version of "Georgia on My Mind" was controversial before it was even recorded. Willie Nelson's label, Columbia, didn't see the point of their outlaw country star singing an old standard that was associated with Ray Charles and Ella Fitzgerald. Willie had the last laugh. This record was a hit and Willie won a Grammy. Tell us about a time when you were a success despite opposition.

This is the regular 'surprise' as the parent of an adult child. The kid has turned out ok despite all their opposition and ridiculous childhood/teen behavior. I'm not taking full credit by any means, but SOMEthing sunk in. 

4) While it's at odds with his "outlaw" image, Willie was a popular and active high school student. He played three sports and was a member of Future Farmers of America. What school activities did you participate in during your teen years?

I'm really struggling to picture Willie Nelson in a letter jacket... Anyway, I was in band and pretty hard-core about it because band at my school WAS hard-core. I also did Spanish Club, and some other random (really very random) things. 

5) Willie once worked as a tree trimmer, so clearly he didn't suffer from acrophobia. How about you? Do you have a fear of heights?

I am absolutely not afraid of heights. I have a healthy respect for them though because I am quite sensibly afraid of falling off things (mountains, ladders, steps...) 

6) He wrote the lyrics to one of his biggest hits, "On the Road Again," during a flight, using the airplane barf bag as scrap paper. That was back in 1980. In 2025, do you handwrite onto note paper, or do you make all your "notes to self" digitally?

I still do mostly hand-written notes, though I have a good collection of things on my phone too including my schedule for planning Thanksgiving Day which I haven't done in years.

7) In 1978, when Willie was singing "Georgia on My Mind," audiences were flocking to see the movie Grease. What's your favorite song from Grease?

I can't think of a song from that movie that I don't know backwards, forwards and upside down. I'm kinda partial to "There are Worse Things I Could Do."

8) Also in 1978, Karina Smirnoff was born. After spending her early years in the Ukraine, she came to America and found success on Dancing with the Stars. Are you a DWTS fan?

Nope. I vaguely know who she is, and I think I've watched the show maybe twice because I was visiting people who are (were) hooked. Meh. 

9) Random question: Do you ever carry a backpack?

I use Beast's computer backpack when I travel. So. Many. Little. Pockets. And it's big enough to fit about 4 summer outfits + jammies and all the rest of my BS. Mind you, I've taken exactly two trips that didn't include sleeping in Sparky's zipcode in the past 8 years.

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)

I'll Be Loving You (Forever) – 1989

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Nope. I'm not a fan of his. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)

Saturday 9: Lady of Spain (1952)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll) 

All of Me (1932) 

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

1) In this song, Louis Armstrong calls his girl "baby." What's the last endearment someone used when speaking to you? 

Uhm. It was probably one of Beast's caregivers calling me "hon" or "sweetie." Or Beast, but I can't understand his words most of the time. Does Sparky calling me mom count?

2) He sings that losing his love made him cry. Do you cry easily? 

Not as much as I used to, but still more than "normal people" do apparently.

3) Louis was born in New Orleans, a city famous for music and cuisine. What's something you love about your home town? 

The town in which I was born is full of good history that I've only really learned once I moved far away. My current town (where I live) has a award-winning water-ski team. I mean, I really don't care, but we don't got much. Maybe the fact that Capone used to hang out here?

4) At age 11, Louis unwisely fired a pistol during a New Year's Eve celebration and was sentenced to 18 months in a juvenile detention facility. It was there that he met music teacher Peter Davis, who believed in Louis and taught him to play cornet and bugle. Tell us about someone who believed in you and made your life better. 

Ironically, this sounds like the sort of behavior that would fit right into my current town... Anyway, I have been blessed to be white in the U.S. and raised by and around people who thought I was amazing. My parents went without a lot of 'things' to make their kids' lives full of possibility. [I simply cannot imagine ANYONE in my pretty-much white town getting arrested for shooting a gun off]

5) Louis would say that arrest changed his life for the better because it was at the detention center that "me and music got married." After his release, he began playing on street corners, or in honkytonks ... any place he could hone his skills. What is something you have worked hard to be better at? 

I have been working hard all my adult life to be a better person, to be understanding and kind and useful. Often Sometimes it feels wholly futile, but I at least know I'm a better-rounded person than I was 25 years ago even if no one else agrees.

6) In the late 1920s, Louis led a jazz band called The Hot Five. His wife, Lil, believed he was too talented not to receive star billing. He just didn't feel ready. She went behind his back and convinced the management at Chicago's Dreamland Cafe to advertise: "The Hot Five, featuring Louis Armstrong: The World's Greatest Trumpet Player." It worked! At the end of the gig, Okeh Records signed him to a recording contract. Can you think of a time when, like Lil, you were glad you asked for forgiveness rather than permission? 

I have 100% started living this lately, mostly because I've learned not to worry so much about what others (those I don't care about) think. Do the thing, apologize later.

7) In 1932, the year this record was popular, the son of aviator Charles Lindbergh was kidnapped and killed. This famous case inspired Agatha Christie to write Murder on the Orient Express. Have you read the book? Seen the movie, the remake or the miniseries? 

I have read the book a few times. I think I've seen the movie? The old one, nothing made in the last 4 decades. 

8) Another aviator was in the news in 1932. Amelia Earhart flew 14 hours from Newfoundland to Londonderry. What is the longest flight you've ever taken? 

The longest single stint on an airplane were the trips to Germany, about 8 hours-ish. Mostly we were not staying in Germany, just changing planes to go on to somewhere else. Once to Rome. Once to Moscow. Once to Athens. Maybe elsewhere, I don't remember anymore.

9) Random question: You have the opportunity to travel safely in a time machine. Would you go back to the past, into the future, or say, "no thanks, I'll stay in 2022?"

What a quandary! Probably past, my my OWN past, just to visit, and only back to about 1980.

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll) 

Waiting for Tonight (1999) 

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

 1) In this song, Jennifer Lopez anticipates a night of unbridled passion with the love of her life. What are you waiting for tonight? (No pressure; it doesn't have to be as thrilling as hers.) 

Whew, well, I can't compete with that: I'm having a couple of Moscow Mules and then taking a bath and getting in bed. It's buh-luddy cold here and I plan to spend as much time as possible under blankets tomorrow.

 2) She sings that she's glad she's beyond those nights that found her tossing and turning alone in her bed. Did you enjoy restful sleep last night? 

I did. I slept 9 hours, according to my CPAP. I love my CBD gummies at bedtime.

 3) Whatever Jennifer has planned for tonight, it won't include alcohol. She never drinks liquor. What's the last adult beverage you enjoyed? 

Ahem, currently sipping a (very strong) MM as mentioned in the first answer.

 4) Ms. Lopez performed "Waiting for Tonight" during last year's Super Bowl halftime show. Will you be watching The Big Game this weekend? 

I'll probably tune in, if only for the ads. Definitely cheering for KC.

 5) Speaking of this weekend, The Weeknd will headline the Super Bowl 2021 halftime show. Are you a fan of his? 

I know nothing much about him, and only know one song which I can't even name right now. 

 6) Super Bowl Sunday is the #1 day for guacamole consumption in the US. When did you most recently eat something with avocado in it? 

Last week. Ahem. See below.

 7) Chicken wings are a popular Super Bowl dish, too. When did you most recently eat chicken? How was it prepared? 

I had a chicken burrito bowl from Chipotle last week. They accidently gave me ALL the sides, rather than the cheese and lettuce I requested. This includes guac. Fortunately, I like guac.

 8) This year, fast food chain Chipotle will run their first-ever Super Bowl ad. Do you pay closer attention to commercials during the Super Bowl? 

I definitely pay more attention to the ads than the game. And I'm a football fan, so I don't know what that says about me.

 9) Random question: Are you more likely to pretend to be more naive than you really are, or more sophisticated?

I don't pretend much anymore. Sometimes, though, it's just easier to let people explain something I already know about than tell them they're getting things wrong. 😎

Saturday 9 x 2

(Link in meme-roll) 

Why Did I Choose You? (1965) 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Aunt Viv. Darren Stevens.

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll) 

Thank U, Next (2018) 

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

1) In this song, Ariana Grande thanks her former boyfriends for what they taught her about love, life, patience and pain. Do you believe you have learned more from your successes, or your mistakes? 

Sadly, I seem to only learn from hard times, i.e. mistakes. Right now I'm facing a complete personality overhaul so I don't lose my job.

2) One of the young men mentioned in the song is Pete Davidson, a cast member of Saturday Night Live. SNL has been on for more than 45 years now. Who is your all-time favorite cast member? 

Gilda. Though Kate McKinnon is pretty amazing.

3) Thinking of funny people ... As you can see from the video, Ariana performed "Thank U, Next" on Ellen Degeneres' talk show. Ellen makes people laugh every afternoon. Who in your life can you always count on to make you laugh or smile? 

I got a call Thursday from a friend/acquaintance who knew I needed to buck up. He almost always makes me smile and he did it again on one of my worst days in awhile. I am so fortunate to have so many friends like this. If it's not an actual person, "The Dollop" podcast often makes me cry with hilarity.

4) It looks like Ariana Grande's personal romantic saga will have a happy ending because at Christmastime, she announced her engagement. Do you know anyone who is getting married in 2021? 

Nope. That is, I don't know if I know anyone getting married this year.

5) Ariana loves Harry Potter and named her dogs Snape, Lily and Sirius Black after characters in the J.K. Rowling books. Are you a Harry Potter fan? 

I like the stories.

6) She loves board games, especially Monopoly. Sam isn't crazy about Monopoly because it takes so long. How about you? Are you a Monopoly fan? 

Not really, and for the same reason as Sam.

7) In 2018, the year this song was released, Toys R Us closed all its stores and went out of business. Who received the last toy you purchased? What was it? 

Beast got a mini-sock-monkey for Christmas from me. Oh, and a light/memory game, which I haven't actually seen in his hands yet.

8) Also in 2018, Aretha Franklin died. What's your favorite Aretha song? 

Any song Aretha sang was tremendous. "Chain of Fools" is a favorite, but honestly...ANYthing.

 9) Random question: Are you more likely to shed a tear at a wedding or during a movie?

Both? The vows always make me mushy inside, and there is almost always some pathos that forces me to cry in a movie.

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll) 

All Shook Up (1957) 

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

Chosen because January 8 is the anniversary of Elvis Presley's birth.

1) In this song, Elvis shares quite a list of maladies: he's itching, his hands are shaky, his knees are weak, he has chills ... How are you feeling this morning? 

Mmm, whoops, I'm doing this at 7 pm. I was ok this morning, albeit super not-motivated for work.

2) He also mentions being "tongue tied." The dictionary defines it as, "unable to speak freely, as from shyness." Do you often find yourself tongue tied? 

Yes. I also get tangled tongue if I think too hard about what I'm trying to say.

3) Even after he was wealthy, Elvis never lived away from his parents. At one point Graceland Mansion was home to four generations of the family: his grandmother, his father and stepmother, Elvis, his wife and daughter. Have you ever lived in a multi-generational household? 

Only as a child. I'd murder members of my family of origin if we lived together. Sparky could move back in and that would be fine.

4) Thinking of family, Elvis Presley was a distant cousin of President Jimmy Carter. Both of their family trees can be traced back to the 18th century and Thomas Preslar (before the surname was changed to Presley in the early 1800s). Have you traced your ancestry? If not, is it something you'd like to do?

My mom was big into genealogy. I have all her paperwork and help people with their genealogy at work all the time, and I give zero shits about doing the work for my own ancestry.

5) As an adult, Elvis never wore denim (except for a movie role). That's because when he was in school, his classmates teased him for "dressing poor" in jeans and coveralls. Is denim a big part of your wardrobe today?

Not anymore. I wear elastic pants, almost all yoga pants or nurses' scrubs, always now. This is shocking: I had to work so hard to get to the point where I could wear jeans as a kid that I never ever thought I'd give them up. And here I am, with a fat tummy that doesn't do well with zip-up pants.

6) Before becoming famous, Elvis drove a truck in and around Memphis. Have you ever had a job that kept you behind the wheel most of the day? 

Nope. Once upon a time I wanted to be a truck driver. It never happened, sadly.

7) In 1957, the year this song was a hit, the Allstate Mechanical Freight Set was popular, too. Kids would wind up the engine and watch it pull two cars and a caboose around the track. To enhance the realism, sparks would shoot from the engine's smoke stack as it rumbled by. Did you ever play with a toy train? If not, tell us about a childhood plaything you remember fondly. 

I never cared a bit about trains, despite family that worked for the railroad and other family that are mental about trains. I was into toy cars though, metal ones.

8) The best-selling book of 1957 was Peyton Place, a scandalous tale of life in a small New England town. Do you suppose there are enough steamy stories behind closed doors in your town to fill a novel? 

There are plenty of steamy stories in my community's library to write several novels.

9) Random question: Can you do 10 push ups? 

You're funny, Gal. lol

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll) 
Feels like the First Time (1977) 

Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here. 
Welcome to the first Saturday 9 of 2021! 

1) Look up from your screen. What's the first thing you see? 

My eyes naturally drift to the H-D Regulator clock on the wall next to the fireplace, straight ahead of me.

2) Looking back on 2020, what surprised you? 

People. They full of surprises, primarily negative ones. Based on my day at work today, it seems to be carrying over into the new year so far.

3) Have you made any resolutions for 2021? 

I don't make resolutions. Having said that, I'm trying to get back to posting a quote on Facebook every day, whatever strikes my fancy--sometimes serious, sometimes completely stupid.

4) In Italy, it's said that if you wear red underwear on New Year's Eve, you'll have good luck all year around. Do you have a lucky charm? 

It's not red underwear, I promise you that! I don't really have a lucky charm, but I do have some jewelry and a few articles of clothing that make me feel more confident in my skin somehow.

5) In Spain, some New Year's Eve revelers believe that, at the stroke of midnight, you should eat exactly 12 grapes, one at a time and one right after the other, to bring you luck for the next twelve months. Did you have anything special on your New Year's Eve menu? 

We normally have fondue for dinner, but since I was here alone I wasn't going to do all that prep for me. Grapes at midnight sounds like a good idea, though!

6) In this week's featured song, Foreigner lead singer Lou Gramm lets us know that he'd sail across a stormy sea to reach his true love. How is the weather where you are today? Are you kicking off 2021 under calm skies, or is it stormy? 

Overcast and gloomy (and now, dark) but not terribly cold and no precipitation.

7) In the 1990s, Gramm joined forces with Billy Joel in a series of concerts to preserve the Montauk Point Lighthouse. Do you have a favorite Billy Joel song?

My absolute favorite pop song is "I've Loved These Days." It's been a constant reminder not to take the good stuff for granted from the first time I heard in when I was a ?preteen? I think.

8) In 1977, when this song was popular, Star Wars was breaking all box office records. The Spy Who Loved Me, a James Bond movie, was also a hit. If you were going to binge on one of these film series, would you choose Star Wars or Bond? 

I've seen all the SW movies--and never want to see them again-- and I have no interest whatsoever in Bond. I'll just read a book instead, thanks.

9) Random question: Would you rather have nothing but green lights for all of 2021, or never have to stand in line for anything all year?

I hate standing in lines! So much. Red lights don't bother me--most of the time I don't really want to be where I'm headed in all the much of a hurry. 

Saturday 9

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
Shake It Off (2014)
Unfamiliar with this week's song. Hear it here.

1) This song makes Crazy Sam want to dance. What song inspires you to get on your feet?

There are a lot. Today I was chair dancing with Beast to Chubby Checker's The Twist while he waited for lunch. He was rolling his eyes at me, but he did get into it a little at least; I kept threatening to get him on his feet and do it properly, but he wasn't at all up for that.

2) Paul McCartney met Taylor Swift at the SNL 40 Anniversary special and told her he really enjoys playing and singing this song. What's the last song you sang along with?

This one. I just watched the video; cute. I like the song for all it's fluffiness. Before that, I seem to recall singing along to Nina Simone's version of Mood Indigo in the car earlier today.

3) The lyrics tell us Swift "shakes off" nasty gossip and unfair criticism. What about you? Do you worry about what others think of you?

I don't care at all, with a few exceptions: my boss, my son, and a couple of others.

4) Her parents are big music fans, and were going to name their baby (boy or girl) "Taylor" after their favorite artist, James Taylor. Can you think of a singer that your mom and/or dad really enjoyed?

Heh, I could have been named after Eydie Gorme if my parents had been in the right mood (not at all likely, btw).

5) She grew up on an 11-acre Christmas tree farm. Do you get a fresh tree every year, or do you have an artificial tree, or do you not put up a tree at all?

I have two fake trees (unless Sparky already took one) but I haven't put one up the last two years. Hasn't been very festive.

6) Taylor Swift is 5'10". According to the CDC, the average American woman is 5'4" while men are, on average, 5'9". Are you taller or shorter than average?

I'm closer to Taylor's height than the "average" although this may soon switch as I am shrinking. I am, today, taller than my husband whose head was on my shoulder today as we transferred from chair to bed.

7) She enjoys good, old fashioned mysteries, especially those by Agatha Christie. Are you currently reading a book for pleasure?

I'm reading three, er, four nonfiction books right now. The one I just put down is The Penguin Book of Hell. The others are slightly less intense.

8) Her brother Austin is a freelance photographer who took the official pictures for her 2008 concert tour. Who took the last photo of you?

Good God, I have no idea! Most likely it was a selfie with Beast. Unless you count the video call Sparky and I had on Tuesday.

9) Random question: What's your go-to comfy outfit?

I'm currently in yoga pants and a T (no bra). It's pretty effective as far as comfort.

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.

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*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!