Friday 5

(Link in meme-roll) 

Sound tracking 

1. What are you listening to? 

Right now, I've got the "Graveyard Tales" podcast on, via Spotify.

2. What are you hearing? 

The furnace just turned on. It's 30 degrees F outside and we're in the path of a day-long snow-storm starting tonight. I'm in the house for the next 48 hours at least.

3. What are you turning a deaf ear to? 

I'm ignoring the piles (and piles, and piles) of paperwork that need to be sorted and (mostly) thrown out.

4. What have you recently overheard? 

I can't think of a thing. I have become pretty good at forgetting anything I hear from patrons at work because of both MYOB and People Be Cray.

5. To whom have you recently lent an ear?

Beast, mostly. I never know for sure what he's saying (aphasia) so it's about all I can do, especially since I haven't been in the same room with him since July. I hate COVID.

Sunday Stealing:

(Link in meme-roll)
The Xmas Questions of 2016

1. Do you send out Xmas cards and if so how many do you send?

Nope. We stopped that madness about 6 years ago, give or take. I mean, Facebook keeps us current with most people and we no longer have Sparky to talk about in the Official Letter. We're very boring.

2. Do you write and send a holiday letter to describe your year?

Oops, see above. I came to hate writing that letter every year!

3. What do you think of photo cards?

I love them if they are family photos. I think outside of family and very close friends, it's very easy to fall into pretentiousness or out-and-out silliness.

4. How about the tree thing – do you have one every year? Do you prefer a real or artificial?

We try to get the tree up every year. Last year it was just barely up before Christmas. This year it went up on Tuesday and Wednesday (I think) last week. Last year, the tree was still up in February for a few days. This year it's coming down over this coming weekend. Next year, I think we're going to have to suck it up and put both trees up. We have too many ornaments!!
I'd prefer real, in some respects, but I have allergies. And they drop so many needles!

5. Describe your typical tree (size, decorations, type). If you don’t have a tree, do you decorate and if so, tell us about it. (If you don’t decorate make up a story here…)

The current fake tree is only about 7 feet tall, but it's pre-lit and much easier to put together than the older fake tree, which is larger (maybe 8" tall? definitely wider, too). We've had that one for probably close to 20 years and it's fine, but such a pain. There is no "theme" to our tree, but I have a growing collection of bird ornaments of different varieties, and we get at least 4-5 new Hallmark ornaments every year for Star Trek (though this year, somehow Alien and a couple of Star Wars, and Caddyshack). We also have a fair number of Packers-related stuff on the tree. Some ornaments from my childhood--apparently, Beast's family didn't save any of theirs, which is weird--and all of the ones Sparky has collected since he was a baby. He easily will have enough to decorate a respectably-sized tree whenever he gets around to wanting to do that sort of thing. We also always put out the creche and few other Christmas things--churches, angels, Santas, some stuffed animals--and a good-sized box of books, tapes, CD's and other Christmas kitsch.

6. Do you hang up stockings? Whose names are on them (and relationships)?

We have three stockings, and they do not have names on them. Sparky's is blue with a bunch of appliqued crap all over it; mine is quilted white sateen with embroidered snowflakes, and Beast's is red cotton-wool with some fake fur around the top.

7. Your favorite Xmas movie(s) are:

I don't really "do" holiday movies. I mean I like A Christmas Story and Scrooged but I don't rewatch movies (or TV shows) with a great deal of enjoyment for the most part.

8. Tell us about an Xmas movie you hate.

I'm not at all a fan of the "movie-of-the-year" stuff that floats around this time of year on the Hallmarks, Bravo, E!....etc. etc. channels.

9. What’s [your] favorite Xmas song(s)?

I like the hymns. Especially the ones that aren't as well known. I love "O Holy Night" if it's being sung by someone with a good voice. "Joy to the World" reminds me of my dad. "We Three Kings" reminds me of my mom, as does "The First Noel" (both of which for silly reasons; in fact, from a musical point of view, I could live without the latter song forever and a day). I also like "The 12 Days of Christmas" believe it or not. And "The 12 Pains of Christmas" for that matter.

10. What holiday song makes you want to hurl?

I'm about done with "Winter Wonderland" for the rest of my life. And I've never really cared for "Back Door Santa" at all.

11. What do you prefer for your holiday meal?

Food. I'm really not fussy at all. I prefer not having to cook.

12. When do you open your gifts?

Normally, we open them Christmas morning. We used to open some on the Eve back when MIL and FIL were still sending Sparky the entire Toys R Us catalog every year.

13. Do you buy gifts for your pet?

Sometimes. I didn't get around to getting Pinto anything special this year. That's probably just as well; he's been having some, uhm, lower GI tract issues the last couple of weeks.

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

Over the years, I've gotten a great deal of crap. I can't think of any ONE that was outstandingly (and unintentionally) bad though. Usually the bad stuff is planned to be bad, as a joke.

15. Do you ever travel for the holiday?

We haven't done so in years. This year we drove an hour to my niece and nephew's house to hang for dinner and play with the kids, and act as a buffer between Alan's (divorced for decades, but still barely speaking) parents.

16. Did you see Santa as a child?

Only at the mall and on TV.

17. Have you ever gone caroling?

I absolutely LOVE caroling! I wish we did it more often. Our church used to do it, but we haven't for years. Probably no one has thought of it.

18. Do you drive around and look at the Xmas lights?

We have done this traditionally after our Christmas Eve feast at the local Chinese place. Once we have killed enough time, we head to late church. This year, the time was all goofed up, so we just ate, churched, and came straight home.

19. Have you ever had a white Christmas?

Almost every year, to be honest. The whitest was 1982. I was home from college and Denver got dumped on big time. I spent Christmas Day in the driveway with my dad shoveling. We were, seriously, out there for a good 6 hours over the course of the day. But the sun was out by then, and it was sort of fun "racing" Dad.

20. Do you know how to ice skate? If yes, when did you skate the last time?

I haven't had ice skates on since I was in high school. I think my church youth group went ice skating a couple of times. I hated it: no ankle strength, no skill, and extreme fear of falling really isn't a recipe for fun.

21. Are we crazy for thinking that the holiday season is WAY too commercial?

It is what it is. It's entirely possible to ignore all that. I did pretty well in that department this year. If only we could turn off the crappy Muzak at the stores, it would be so much easier. I really can't stand buying groceries with those mothertruckin' Chipmunks warbling at 100 decibels.

22. Have you ever worked Xmas eve or Xmas day?

I've worked at least part of Christmas Eve for most of my career. It is not normally a holiday in the library "industry" unless you work in a union shop. This year, it was.

23. What are your Xmas pet peeves?

I hate getting wound up with "too much to do" and feeling overwhelmed. I hate feeling guilty about not doing "everything." However, over the years, Beast and I have agreed that it's totally not worth it to kill ourselves, so we try really hard not to turn December into a hurricane of buying, decorating and panicking. And we enjoy it just the same, probably more, than people who stay awake nights worrying about getting things "perfect."

24. What’s your favorite thing about the holidays?

Family time. Hanging out. The days getting longer!

25. Here's your chance to say something significant to our players. Go for it!

I'm pretty stoked about these signs for our house and yard going into 2017. The local PSN* spread the word and took the orders, and I can't wait for the ground to clear (and thaw a little) so I can jab the one in the ground. One of the best Christmas gifts I've given myself, ever.
May all of you have a hate-free New Year!

*If you have to ask, I'm afraid I can't tell you publicly. :-)

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
Snowbird (1971)
Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) In this song, Elvis wants the snowbird to fly away and take the snow back with her. Have you seen a measurable snowfall yet this season?

Ayup. Last weekend. We're due for another storm tonight / tomorrow / Monday / Tuesday. Whee! I'm doing a great deal of driving tomorrow and Wednesday, so I'm hoping the road crews are on point.

2) Drivers in snowy climes are encouraged to keep salt, sand or kitty litter in the trunk because those items can help a car regain traction in the snow. Do you have an emergency kit in your car right now? If so, what's in it?

Well, actually, no I don't. I should at least put a shovel in, and some snacks. I do try to keep my gas tank at least half-full during the winter. I've gotta get some salt in the car. ...adding to list of Things To Do...

3) Back in 2007, North Dakota set the world record for the most snow angels made at one time (8,910). Do you enjoy playing in the snow?

Not so much. I get cold, and my glasses fog up and I'm just too old. The snow we usually get isn't really snow-angel-y either. Too much usually at once time.

4) Chionophobia is the fear of snow. Astraphobia is the fear of thunder and lightening. Lilapsophobia is the fear of tornadoes and hurricanes. Do you have to cope with any of these fears?

I'm not a fan of tornadoes. I live in a tornado-prone area and I have spent some quality time in basements in the spring / summer / fall, and one memorable day in January 2005. The best reason for having a pool table is it makes a great place to hide from tornadoes. I don't think I have a phobia though; I think I have a healthy respect for wind.

5) Elvis' daughter Lisa Marie split her childhood between Memphis and Los Angeles, so she seldom saw snow. When she was a little girl, she was whisked her off to Denver in her father's private plane so the two of them could spend an afternoon playing in the snow. If you could take off and spend the afternoon anywhere in the world, where would you go?

I'm cool with a weekend in Denver. Preferably with no snow. You might want to warn Tattered Cover I'll be dropping by.

6) At home and onstage, Elvis refused to wear jeans and only wore denim if a film role demanded it. This is because when he was young, classmates teased him for "dressing poor" in jeans and coveralls. What did you wear to class when you were in grammar school?

I would have KILLED to wear jeans. I had to wear skirts and dresses, usually. Occasionally, long pants, but NOT jeans. Jeans were for play, and only cheap-ass home-made jeans to boot.

7) Elvis and President Jimmy Carter are distant relatives (the President is the sixth cousin of the King's great grandfather). Your turn: Tell us about one of your more interesting relatives.

I ain't got any. At least that I'm aware of, and that's just fine by me.

8) In 1971, when Elvis released his recording of "Snowbird," You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown was a hit on Broadway. Who is your favorite Peanuts character?

Oh, it has to be Snoopy, I think.

9) Random question: You receive a gift certificate from a gourmet food company that can be redeemed for one of these three things: 1 lb. of caviar, 5 lbs. of steak or a 10 lb., live lobster. Which would you choose?

Steak. Caviar is gross, and for multiple reasons I would be unwilling to deal with 10 lb. of lobster unless I also get a chef.

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
The Boat Questions

1. YOU HAVE 10 BUCKS AND NEED TO BUY SNACKS AT A GAS STATION. WHAT DO YOU GET?

Couple of bottles of pop, a candy bar, and a big bag of Cheetos.

2. IF YOU WERE REINCARNATED AS SOME SORT OF SEA DWELLING CREATURE, WHAT WOULD YOU BE?

I wouldn't mind being an octopus.

NINE years ago!!?

3. WHO'S YOUR FAVORITE REDHEAD?

My son.

4. WHAT DO YOU ORDER WHEN YOU'RE AT A DINER?

Of late, it's been either a chicken Caesar salad or a grilled chicken sandwich. Unless it's breakfast in which case the call is for bacon and an English muffin with honey.

5. LAST BOOK YOU READ?

The last one I finished is Just My Luck; I won it in a book giveaway from GoodReads.

6. DESCRIBE YOUR FAVORITE PAIR OF UNDERWEAR?

I have a couple of pair of VS boy-shorts that are super comfy. Actually, everything from there is super comfy. I'd link but the chick wearing the ones I like somehow "forgot" her bra ...sigh.

7. DESCRIBE THE LAST TIME YOU WERE INJURED.

I pinched the outside of my hand in a folding door yesterday. Somehow the thumb on my other hand is very sore today too, though I don't know why. I get hurt pretty much daily, but in little ways mostly.

8. ROCK CONCERT OR SYMPHONY? LAST SEEN?

The last music event I saw was probably at church, so more likely to be nearer the classical end of the scale than rock.

9. IF SOMEONE WERE TO BUY YOU A GIFT, WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE IT TO BE?

I don't need anything right now. Maybe some energy and productivity.

10. WHAT TYPE OF SHIRT DO YOU BEST IN?

I live in T-shirts of various types.

11. IF YOU COULD USE ONLY ONE FORM OF TRANSPORTATION FOR THE REST OF YOUR LIFE, WHAT WOULD IT BE?

Well, car of course. I mean I love trains and planes, but they don't go EVERYwhere.

12. WHAT IS YOUR DEADLY SIN?

Sloth.

13. MOST RECENT MOVIE YOU'VE WATCHED IN A THEATER? RATE IT.

Sparky & I went to see "Fantastic Beasts..." last weekend. It was delightful, though some of the FX were a little dicey.

14. IF YOU COULD INVENT ONE THING, WHAT WOULD IT BE?

I would dearly love to excise this whole year from everyone's reality. Including Trump's election. The future is no longer a safe place for me to think about much.

15. NAME AN ACTOR/ACTRESS YOU'VE HAD THE HOTS FOR?

I used to think Tom Cruise was hot, until he went insane on live TV. And Brad Pitt is gorgeous. I just like to look at them--I'm not interested in knowing them.

16. WHAT'S YOUR FAVORITE CITY? LAST TIME THERE?

Denver. Too long.

17. WHAT'S THE FIRST WORD THAT COMES TO MIND RIGHT NOW?

"Blurry"--because my eyes are.

18. WHAT TYPE OF PET DO YOU HAVE?

We have one guinea pig.

19. WHERE HAVE YOU LIVED THE LONGEST?

In this county. For 22 years.

20. WHO WAS THE LAST PERSON THAT SPENT $100 ON YOU?

Uh, me? I bought some new shoes last month.

21. WHAT'S THE LAST PIECE OF CLOTHING YOU BOUGHT?

Those shoes just mentioned.

22. WHAT WAS/IS YOUR FAVORITE JOB?

I love my current job.

23. WHO MAKES YOU LAUGH THE MOST??

Kids' laughter gets me, and general absurdity.

24. WHAT ARE YOU CRAVING?

Summer.

25. WHAT'S ON YOUR MIND?

Driving 45 minutes one-way to see Beast today, and then turning around and driving home. It's supposed to snow all day and I'm not looking forward to the drive home at all. It could be tricky getting out of the parking lot there and the roads might have gone to hell by 4. Oh well....

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
Sleigh Ride (1993)
Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) Have you ever ridden in a sleigh?

I've ridden in a Russian troika in Siberia. Close enough for my lights.

2) This recording is from Harry Connick Jr's best-selling CD, When My Heart Finds Christmas. This year, did you add any new holiday songs to your personal collection?

Nope. In fact, I didn't really listen to much Christmas music till this past week. I've got another 5 Days of Christmas left for it too! OK, to be totally honest, I'm listening to random Spotify Christmas channels and building NEXT year's playlist. I've found some good new bands, but their names are written down at work.

3) Harry was born and raised in New Orleans, a city that seldom sees snow. Have you had enough snow to shovel so far this winter?

Yes. We've had two shovel-able snowstorms this season. We can be done now--but I'm sure we aren't.

4) Speaking of weather, Harry hosted a mini-series on The Weather Channel called 100 Biggest Weather Moments. Do you frequently check The Weather Channel?

Not as much as we used to--we check the weather online on our phones or laptops instead.

5) Harry's mother was a very impressive woman -- a lawyer, judge and Louisiana Supreme Court justice. Tell us about someone in your family of whom you're very proud.

I'm proud of everyone in my family! My brother sells used firetrucks to, well, anyone looking for them (he's sold to places from Sweden to Qatar, from Wisconsin to Colorado). My sister has a MA in Early Childhood Development and has run several successful daycares over the years. I have a nephew who is a TSA officer, another who's a city council member in his city, one who repairs forklifts for pay and designs and builds firearms for fun, one who drives a semi all over the eastern half of the country (and Canada), a niece who is a veterinarian, another who is an astrophysicist (yes, really), one who designs amazing costumes and clothing, and another whose voice is amazing. Sparky is the most awesome son ever--he's been just stellar during this winter break--and Beast is my hero for keeping his sense of humor through the past 3 months.
Should I keep going....?

6) Happy New Year! Now that Christmas is over, are you done with holiday music and decorations? Or are you sad to see the holidays end?

I'm over the hols. Let's just move right on to spring, ok?

7) The New Year's Eve fireworks celebration in Sydney, Australia is famous for coordinating pyrotechnics and music. Have you ever welcomed the New Year in another country?

Yes, actually I have: I rang in 1985 in Moscow watching most of my classmates get blotto and agreeing with our prof/chaperone that the flight to Omsk (on a prop plane) in the morning was going to SUUUUUUUCK for them. It did. Unfortunately, I had to sit on the plane next to one of the guys who didn't have the most settled stomach ....

8) Do you have any New Year's Resolutions for 2016?

It's not so much a resolution as it is actual fact: I simply have to lose weight. Aside from looking like hell, my back is starting to act up from doing nothing but standing in line. Shopping is becoming painful, which is ludicrous.

9) Looking back on 2015, what surprised you?

The fact that Donald Trump has any political credibility with anyone stuns me. I just don't get it--talk about the Emperor having no clothes!

Friday 5

(Link in meme-roll)
Todayish

1. When were you last up on the house top?

   Actually, I don't think I've ever been on the roof of any of our houses. That's weird. I was on the roof of our patio in my childhood home a couple of times--it tended to collect Frisbies, etc.

2. What’s a cookie you dislike?

   I'm not at all a fan of peanut-butter cookies.

3. How many people named Carol (or Carole) do you know?

   We go to church with someone who goes by MaryCarol. Otherwise the name is in my phone--with a slightly different spelling--but it's not a person.

4. How much snow have you got on the roof?

   Nada. The only white here is lights and fake snow.

5. Whose lap did you last sit on, and who last sat on yours?

   I have no idea. I might have sat on Beast's lap at some point this year, though not recently. I had my great-nephews on my lap at different times at Thanksgiving.

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer (1979)
Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) According to a marketing research firm, this song is both one of the most played and most hated songs of the season. Do you like it?

I adore this song. It reminds me of college and Wisconsin and the people who could be the people in the song.

2) In this song, Grandma's troubles start when she drinks too much eggnog. Do you like eggnog?

Yup. Haven't had any this year so far, but I will, I will.

3) In the song, Grandpa recovers from losing Grandma by drinking beer and playing cards with Cousin Mel. Will you be celebrating the holidays with cousins?

Uh, no. I have no idea where my cousins might be, or even if they're are still living. I will, however, be seeing my niece and her family, including her mom (my sister) and dad. But see, this description of grief is TOTES Sconnie....and da YooPee, of course!

4) When did you most recently drink a beer? Was it in a bottle, a can or a glass?

I loathe beer. I taste it to make sure about twice a decade. Yuck.

5) The lyrics refer to "pudding of fig." In "We Wish You a Merry Christmas," the carolers demand figgy pudding. Yet despite its popularity in holiday songs, Sam has never tasted fig pudding. Have you?

Hmm, no I think not. Just fig newtons.

6) Thinking of holiday sweets, would you prefer a gingerbread cookie or slice of pumpkin pie?

Honestly? Neither. Penuche, fudge, or sugar cookies for me, please.

7) This song was recorded by a duo named Elmo & Patsy. It occurs to Sam that she has never met anyone named Elmo. How about you? Any Elmos in your life?

No Elmos. My parents did have a friend named "Elmer," who was married to someone everyone called "Brownie" whose voice sounded like Snow White. She always called my dad by his diminutive which he NEVVVVERRRR used (i.e. "Billy," although that is not even close to his name).

8) Do you need snow to get "into the spirit?"

Nope.

9) Random question: Are you going to get/have you gotten a flu shot this year?

Got one about a month ago. I try to remember to do it every fall.

Friday 5

(Link in meme-roll)
Know-How

1. What’s something you know how to do beneath the hood of a car?

   I can check the oil, check the belts, jump a battery, and fill the washer fluid thingy. Generally, if something's not right I'll be able to spot it, but it's unlikely I could fix it.

2. What’s something you know how to fold a piece of paper into?

   I've made two (different) foxes this week, on order, for a friend who asked for them for her husband for Christmas. I enjoy origami, without pressure, as a tension release at work.

3. What’s something you know how to do in the outdoors?

   I can build a fire given matches, kindling and firewood. I can do basic gardening, which includes telling the difference between weeds and not-weeds. And I can shovel snow, though not much and not for long.

4. What’s something you know how to do with a length of rope?

   "I can make a hat, or a brooch, or a pterodactyl." Mostly, I'm just good at winding it up into a bundle and tying it off.

5. What’s something you know how to do with a deck of cards?

   I can shuffle like the pros, regular and backwards. I know a couple of very simple card tricks, and a whole lot of different versions of solitaire.

... it stays with you

(from the Aimster)

Have you ever been to Legoland®?

Perish the thought! We have a Lego (technically, Duplo) table at work, and I think I've developed a strong repulsion toward the firm because of all the cleanup I've had to do around it over the years. Not to mention the zillions of pieces I've picked up at home. And at other kids' houses when I've babysat. ...I used to like Legos, too.

Have you ever done something heroic?

Nothing I would consider heroic. I suppose the definition of heroic is rather malleable though, so what I would call heroic might not fit your concept of it. And vice versa.

Have you ever built a snowman?

Considering I've lived in snowy climates my entire life, I've created surprisingly few of these. Like, maybe two?

Do you have any lucky items, objects or traditions?

I keep my one-year coin in my wallet and take it out occasionally to ponder. I should get a two-year coin next month. I always have Chapstick (or something like it) in my right front pants pocket. I actually feel a little freaked out if it's not there--this is a 25-year or more habit. I think I may have some other tics that I'm totally unaware of.

Do you have any superstitions?

There is a patron whose name NO ONE is allowed to speak at work! Somehow, whenever we mention that "E.E." hasn't been seen in awhile ... she shows up within the next 48 hours. There are some other work things that we all subscribe to. I do touch wood when I say something that might bring bad luck.

What's your favourite Movie quote?

" I don't patronize bunny rabbits." (Heathers)

Do you wear sunglasses indoors to look cool or stylish?

Nope. I don't actually own sunglasses per se.

Are you a hat person?

I like hats, but I really hate hat-hair, so I don't wear them very often at all.

Do you prefer digital or rotary/analogue clocks?

I'm not fussy. I do, however, like clocks to either match exactly with the rest of those in the building, or be set differently ON PURPOSE. For instance, the clock on my nightstand is set, intentionally, 10 minutes ahead of 'real time.' All the clocks at work say something different. It makes me nuts.

Have you ever been to a gym?

WTF? What planet did you grow up on that you didn't have to take gym class every goddamn year of your educational career?!
Of course. I've also been to a YMCA and a couple of workout centers. I am so very worldly.

Have you ever been wolf-whistled in public?

Yes. Ugh. The first time was when I was, like, 11 and sitting in my front yard. {{shudder}}

Have you ever been approached by someone who knew you but you couldn't remember them for the life of you?

Yes. Well, technically, no. Lots of people recognize me, some of them legitimately know me from work. I'm horrible at faces and names though so that does happen. And then there are the people who ask me if I used to live in [town I've never heard of] because I look just like the [grocery store clerk, school principal, librarian, whatever] there. It freakin' happened at the DOCTOR last week for cryin' out loud!

What do you do to keep fit?

I don't.

How often do you wash your ears?

Every time I wash my hair.

Could you go out with someone who had a child from a previous relationship?

As I've said before, I'm sure Beast would frown upon this arrangement. If there were no Beast in my life, I would think it would be pretty much impossible for me to date someone suitable who didn't have kids. At this point, said kids would likely be adults. It would be interesting.

How much would it cost to buy your love?

Depends on the day. Today, 50 cents and my phone number might do it.

What's the scariest thing you've ever done?

Hospitalizations count, right? Also, dealing with some of the bullshit Beast has pulled over the last 5 years has been ... harder than anything I could've imagined.

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
Very Much Questions Meme

1. What was the last clothing item that you bought?

It's either the socks I mentioned the other day or a package of underwear. I'm a damned exciting person.

2. If you could stay one age forever, what age would you choose?

I enjoyed 27 and 28.

3. When you say “lol”, are you really laughing?

Sometimes. Often, in fact.

4. What is the most interesting thing you’ve done in the past year?

I've done a TON of work on myself, internally. Seems like it's a lot of backing up to take another run at it, but I do see progress overall. And, of course, the Rose Bowl and Parade were simply awesome.

5. If you started a business, what would it be?

It would involve writing, the internet, research, and/or organizing/cleaning.

6. Do your friends/family/coworkers know about your blog?

Some do. Most do not.

7. How long does it take you to write an average blog post?

Here, about 10 minutes or so. On the rare days I post elsewhere, it takes longer.

8. How do you keep up with the blogs you follow?

Inoreader, now that Google pulled the plug on GReader and Bloglines bailed.

9. What is your bedtime?

I'm usually in bed by 10.

10. Introvert or extrovert?

More introvert than not.

11. What is your biggest wish?

"I always drink to world peace."

12. What is the best job you ever had?

Being a mom has been wonderful. I also really like cataloging at work, and to a great extent, doing reference work.

13. Dog person/cat person/both/neither?

I prefer dogs, but since I'm allergic to both (moreso cats, but dogs too), I'm a "neither" nowadays.

14. If you had $1,000 to spend any way you wanted, what would you do with it?

I'd go order new kitchen counters RIGHT NOW.

15. How do you “dress” your toast?

Mostly just butter. Sometimes honey.

16. How do you feel about snow?

As long as I'm inside looking at it, I love snow. When I have to be dealing with moving it, or driving in it, I'm less thrilled.

17. What was the worst job you ever had?

Lately, my current job has been a bear--many many days of sitting in my driveway not wanting to pull out and head to work. Otherwise, my first full-time job was often absolutely awful.

18. What song can you not stop listening to?

"Uptown Funk" gets stuck in my head ALL THE TIME.

19. Love your name or hate it?

I'm ok with it at this point. I used to hate it.

20. How did you choose your blog/twitter handle?

My blog 'name' is a shortened version of my job. My Twitter name is my initials, but I rarely tweet.

Saturday 9 x 3

(Link in meme-roll)
Marshmallow World (1963)
Unfamiliar with this week's song? Hear it here.

1. This song likens fluffy clouds to marshmallows. What does the sky look like where you are today?

It's dark now, but it was partly cloudy in the morning and then got cloudier over the course of the afternoon. I think. I was at work most of the day, so I could be wrong.

2. The lyrics refer to snowballs. Have you ever been in a snowball fight?

Yes. I lost.

3. Chionophobia is fear of snow. What phobias do you have?

I'm not a fan of large crowds.

4. In 2004, Canadian school children raised money for charity by setting a new world record: the most snow angels made in 24-hour period. Have you ever participated in a fundraising stunt?

Nope, but that one sounds sort of fun.

5. When marshmallows were first introduced, they were used for medicinal purposes. Specifically to soothe sore throats. What do you take when your throat is bothering you?

Tylenol. Or stronger.

6. Marshmallows are an important ingredient in the Rice Krispies Treat recipe. If you were asked to prepare something for a bake sale, what would you make?

Bar cookies of some kind.

7. Darlene played Danny Glover's wife in the Lethal Weapon movies. Do you enjoy action movies?

I loved those movies. So silly. Generally, action movies that take themselves very seriously I do not like.

8. Darlene's father advised her to always, "shoot for the stars." Share some good advice you've received.

"Don't pick up snakes."

9. Will you be returning/have you returned any holiday gifts?

Nope. It's all good.

Kentucky Rain (1970)
Next Thursday, the 8th, would be Elvis' 80th birthday, so we're celebrating The King. Here is this week's song.

1. In this song, Elvis hitchhikes across Kentucky. Have you ever hitched a ride?

Hell no!!

2. Elvis received his first guitar for his 11th birthday, even though he'd asked his parents for a bicycle. As an adult, how often do you ride a bike?

Not in ten years. Too hilly around here.

3. When Elvis was a child, his family was very poor, often living in rooming houses or public housing. His classmates teased him for being "trashy," which left him shy. Were you more shy or outgoing as a kid?

Shy. Totally shy. Even with friends I was shy.

4. While in high school, Elvis mowed neighbors' lawns with a push mower and a sickle. According to The Home Depot, one of today's most popular mowers is a gas-powered Cub Cadet with a self-mulching feature. Tell us about your lawn mower.

This is somewhat of a sore subject. We have gas walk-behind, and a gas rider that hasn't been functional for two summers now, but Beast won't just replace the damn thing!

5. In the 1950s, Frank Sinatra dismissed Elvis as, "deplorable." Yet by the time of Elvis' death, he had revised his opinion and said, "Elvis was the embodiment of the whole American culture." Tell us about something or someone you changed your mind about.

I'm watching football right now, so I'm going with the fact that I used to like the Seahawks.

6. After Elvis was discharged from the Army, his first performance was on a Sinatra TV special, sponsored by Timex. Do you wear a watch?

Nope.

7. Coinciding with Elvis' 80th birthday, there will be an auction of Presley-related memorabilia at his home in Graceland. One item up for bid is a plush toy he gave to an Army buddy's wife in 1958 for the baby she was expecting. Do you know anyone who is looking forward to a baby in 2015?

Yes, one of my nieces, Marguerite, is pregnant again, due in June.

8. None of the items being sold at the Graceland auction actually belonged to Elvis at the time of his death. Everything left to daughter Lisa Marie remains in her possession. Do you have something you cherish that was given to you by a close relative?

Loads of things. My mom's turquoise ring, for one.

9. The US Postal service sold more than 500 million of the Elvis commemorative stamp. According to the Census Bureau, that was two stamps each for every man, woman and child in the United States. When is the last time you visited the post office?

The last time I went inside the building was probably 3-4 months ago, but I was only checking our mailbox. I haven't stood in line there for a very long time.

Dancing with Myself (1980)
Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) This song is one of Billy Idol's biggest hits. Can you name another?

"White Wedding" among others.

2) When is the last time you danced around your home?

Probably when I made dinner last week. I tend to get a little goofy while stirring.

3) In this song, Billy says he dances with his own reflection. Is there a mirror in the room you're in right now?

Not as such, just a lot of glass (pictures, clocks, etc.).

4) Dancing with Myself is also the name of Billy Idol's 2014 autobiography. Let's say you're going to write your life story. What do you title it?

I have no idea.

5) This month, Billy resumes his 2014-15 concert tour in New Orleans. Have you ever been to Louisiana?

Yes. Yes I have. Once while in utero, once on our way to East Texas, and once on a mission trip. It's hot there. All the time, apparently.

6) In 1980, when "Dancing with Myself" was first popular, VHS players were all the rage. Do you still have yours?

Yup. Right next to the DVD player. I think we used it last month too to watch "Scrooged."

7) In 1980, The Love Boat was getting good ratings. Have you ever taken a cruise?

Not yet.

8) Sally Field won her first Oscar in 1980 for the movie Norma Rae. Five years later she won a second Oscar for Places in the Heart and delivered one of the most quoted acceptance speeches in Academy history. Do you remember what she said?

"You like me! You really like me!" [Look ma, no Google!]

9) In 1980, People magazine named Stephen King one of the most intriguing people of the year because he had two big paperback bestsellers -- The Dead Zone and The Shining. Do you have a favorite Stephen King book?

I loved his book of advice about writing. And his collection of short stories Just after Sunset was really good.

Friday Fill-Ins

(Link in meme-roll)

1. In New England, winter has arrived.

2. We haven't had LOTS of snow all at once in quite some time. We did get about 6 inches yesterday, but that's nothing, really.

3. Ahhhh, nothing like a hot bath on a chilly nice like tonight.

4. Sleep is my favorite thing to do nowadays.

5. Last night, I had a dream about .... I don't believe I had any dreams last night, at least not that I recall.

6. I will be going bearing gifts which is the perfect way to see someone I haven't seen in at least six month.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to that bath, tomorrow my plans include hanging out with a good friend I haven't seen in awhile, and Sunday, I want to get all the food prepped for Ash Wednesday dinner!

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
We Owned the Night

1) Can you recall a time when you danced and romanced like you "owned the night?"

Most of my college years seemed like this. Don't the majority of people that age tend to behave as if they owned the night (and the day and the moon and the stars)?

2) Samantha Winters admits she earned the name "Crazy Sam" during her party girl days in the 1980s. But now she's in bed by 11:00 PM. Do you have a regular bedtime?

Not really. When I'm tired, I go to bed. That can be 9 or 11, and almost always includes at least 20 minutes reading or doing a puzzle in bed.

3) Lady Antebellum is one of the most popular acts in country music. Do you often listen to country music?

Not really. I don't mind country-rock or country-pop, but most straight country just doesn't work for me. Sorry, June and George.

4) Are you responding to this meme on a desktop or laptop or phone or tablet?

Laptop.

5) How often do you check your horoscope?

Uhm, like, nevah! Seriously, I just don't. Even at the Chinese place on Christmas, I just looked to see if I really am a rabbit. I am. Horoscopes=bullshit.

6) Congratulations! You just won a trip to Switzerland! Is your passport up to date?

Yes; I just checked with my Keeper of Passports, and he says so. I'd go to Switzerland in a heartbeat, too, though maybe not till summer.

7) Do you know how to snow ski?

Nope. I know how to Hefty, though.

8) What's the first beverage you drink in the morning?

Water.

9) Are you a good speller?

Yes. Not always a good proof-reader of my own stuff, though. ;-)

Friday Fill-Ins

(Link in meme-roll)

1. Ahhhh snow, but not so much, just enough to look pretty.

2. Sparky and I spent some time preparing cookies this afternoon!

3. Creating a happy Christmas really doesn't have to include stressful preparations and decorations.

4. I may be overdosing on relaxation. Not that I'm complaining....

5. Kick start the snow thrower; we may actually get a winter this year.

6. It's not the end of the world as we know it.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to going up to take a bath pretty soon, tomorrow my plans include perhaps (finally) putting ornaments on the stupid tree, and Sunday, I want to not flub my lines during the advent candlelighting, and then watching football!

Curious as a Cat x4 (sigh)

(Link in meme-roll)
#345
1) Share five things you're thankful for.

I'm happy that I survived the past year. I'm thankful for my church family. I'm thankful for the people around me who either love me or are masochists. I'm thankful that this last week's cold wasn't any worse. And I'm thankful this will be a short week at work.

2) What companies provide the worst customer service?

I was never too excited about calling the cable company when I had to do that. Not thrilled with our local-ish chain grocery store which seems to have zero customer service training. The worst, though, has to be anything to do with the medical industry and insurance. Yuck.

3) About how much storage space is in your current home? Is it enough?

I've found that no matter the space you have, you always have more shit than fits comfortably. We have a shit-ton of storage space in this house, and up until about 5 years ago we were holding our own, but we are now "officially full." Ugh.

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

Public Domain Photo

This makes me giggle. I love the paisley drawing on the keys, and then the green dry-erase (?) D so you can figure out where your fingers belong...crack me up!

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#346
1) Have you ever been arrested?

I've had two tickets written on me, which, technically, means I've been arrested twice. But never in the tradition handcuffs-and-back-of-the-car kind of thing. whew

2) Turkey (not the country, the Thanksgiving bird) -- love it or leave it?

Love it, but it's not exactly easy to cook!

3) Do you judge couples by how they met?

No. For the most part, I don't even know how people met. Three members of my family met their spouses online, and they've been married a total of 20 years between them so who am I to judge?

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

Public Domain Photo

Well, this was meant has a Halloween photo, so you can see how far behind I really am now--yay me! This picture reminds me of stories of the catacombs under Paris where there are supposedly stacks and stacks of bones that have been removed from cemeteries over the centuries. Cool. Sorta creepy.

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1) You were just given a yacht. What would you name it?

"For Sale"

2) America's game: baseball or football? Or something else?

Football, at least for me. I haven't watched a full professional baseball game in at least six years.

3) What was your favorite TV show when you were growing up?

There were too many and they changed over time. I always liked "Little House..." and "Apple's Way." Later, it was "Dukes of Hazzard" and "CHiPs" that I remember. And all the 60s sitcoms that aired in the afternoons. And M*A*S*H of course.

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

Public Domain Photo

Kinda looks like a snow angel made by a turkey, no? I can't remember the last time I made a snow angel. Hmmm, may have to remedy that this winter. We haven't seen any snow to speak of this year (just some floating flakes). I'm sure we'll get our share, however. I'm perfectly all right with that since I can't expect Sparky to dig me out when Beast is out of town. :-)

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1) Which is worse: freezing cold feet or hot, sweaty feet?

What's really the pits is cold sweaty feet.... I'm not a fan of either extreme, but I'm much more familiar with cold feet, especially in bed.

2) What is your most non-traditional holiday tradition?

I suppose it's the refusal to make a big dinner on Christmas Day. No, we just do a fend-for-yourself sandwich thing instead.

3) What makes you nervous?

The possibility of something dangerous occurring. I tend to overthink all the things that could go wrong in any given situation. I've been known to get so wrapped up in this that I practically cease to function. It's a little OCD-ish.

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

b>Public Domain Photo

Dog!!! Or, as Sparky would say: "doggyyyyy!!!" Kind of an odd-faced little face, and I'm not sure what's going on with the house (?) in the background. Are those telephone poles stacked in front? Still.... Dog!!

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
The April No Fools' Meme

1. What was the last clothing item that you bought? I had a little shopping spree at Kohl's a couple of weeks ago: some shirts and a couple of pairs of clamdiggers.

2. If you could stay one age forever, what age would you choose? 25, but only if I don't have to be working at the job I had then, or at least not for the boss I had then.

3. When you say “lol”, are you really laughing? Usually I'm at least smiling.

4. What is the most interesting thing you’ve done in the past year? Two family funerals, sending Sparky off to college, four hospital visits for Beast, calling an ambulance twice for Beast, going over my boss's head to the City, a kidney stone, starting back at full-time employment, not sending Christmas cards (except we did sent some ecards), finally getting my mom's estate settled.... You pick.

5. If you started a business, what would it be? There was a moment when I seriously thought about a cleaning business for apartments between renters. But then I realized that most a lot of people are fuckin' pigs, and that idea died a-borning.

6. Do your friends/family/coworkers know about your blog? Some do. Most don't.

7. How long does it take you to write an average blog post? Probably 15-20 minutes. Last night's meme took over 2 hours.

8. How do you keep up with the blogs you follow? Sporadically. I keep up with the memes, and with the people I really care about. Work-related stuff tends to slide: I have nearly 200 library-related posts to catch up on. Most of those are from Thursday or later.

9. What is your bedtime? Is sex always involved? LOL!

10. Introvert or extrovert? I'm an innie.

11. What is your biggest fear? Dying in the middle of a stupid meme.

12. What is the best job you ever had? My current job is pretty cool, most days. Except the days where I want to murder everyone, starting with myself.

13. Dog person/cat person/both/neither? Dog. I love dogs.

14. If you had $1,000 to spend any way you wanted, what would you do with it? I'd hire a personal trainer till the money ran out.

15. How do you "dress" your toast? I don't eat toast very often. Mostly, I just butter it.

16. How do you feel about snow? Meh. I like it fine. We didn't see much this winter.

17. What was the worst job you ever had? The job I had when I was 25 pretty much SUCKED.

18. What song can you not stop listening to? I don't really do this much. At all.

19. Love your name or hate it? I like it. Mostly.

20. How did you choose your blog/twitter handle? My blog name is short for "cataloger" and my Twitter handle is more-or-less initials.

Friday Fill-Ins

(Link in meme-roll)

1. When I heard Beast on the phone just now, he actually sounded normal. At least for "Hello." After that, he sounded awful again.
2. Watching Beast suffer all the pain he's been in this week makes me want throw things, cry, and generally behave badly.
3. Get outta here!
4. One mile down the road toward the hospital this afternoon is where I chickened out and drove back home in blinding, blowing snow. Sorry, Beast. It's really that bad out there. ...sigh
5. Hands are for holding.
6. There's no need to put anybody down. [except this one ER doctor...]
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to continuing to have electricity all night, tomorrow my plans include are totally up in the air since I don't know when/if Beast will be released from the hospital--and I'm supposed to work--and Sunday, I want to have a peaceful, painfree day for everyone in the house!

Friday Fill-Ins

(Link in meme-roll)

1. When it comes time to make a decision, I I usually manage to be OK with the results.
2. Snow when Beast is out of town: that must be the rule.
3. Ma says, eat your veggies.
4. I generally read at the same time I curl my hair in the mornings.
5. I never saw an iced-sugar cookie I didn't want to snarf.
6. People being nasty to each other is not a new invention.
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to dinner (I wonder what I'll be making myself?), tomorrow my plans include grocery shopping, and mailing Sparky's ValDay box, and Sunday, I want to survive Sunday School!

Friday Fill-Ins

(Link in meme-roll)

1. When I looked out the window this morning I was glad to see it hadn't snowed too much more overnight.
2. Criticizing people you don't know anything about doesn't make sense to me.
3. Remind me why I just went into the pantry. ...or the kitchen, or tell me why I just stood up...my brain=fried
4. Travel is something I love to do!
5. TP is a basic necessity of life.
6. I cleaned the refrigerator recently and I found a lot of food to throw out. As usual.
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to hanging out with Beast and maybe watching some DVR'd NCISes, tomorrow my plans include a whole lot of stuff* that isn't all fun, but that needs doing, and Sunday, I want to enjoy worship and...I dunno... finish the stuff* I didn't get done tomorrow. Oh, and I hear there might be a football game or two to watch!

__________
* A technical term that encompasses laundry, sorting out insurance coverage (new insurance = new doctors??) and prescriptions, figuring out what I'm taking to next weekend's conference, shopping for what I don't have to wear for next week's conference, grocery shopping, reinforcing the directive for Sparky to Clean His Room before heading back to college, figuring out someone to watch the guinea pigs while I'm gone, planning a ride to the airport, saying goodbye to Beast (again), going through the conference schedule and planning my days, updating my reading blog, cleaning the guinea pig cage.... Oh yeah, fun times at Chez Chat this weekend!!

Friday Fill-Ins

(Link in meme-roll)

1. Sleigh bells ring somewhere far from here where there is snow on the ground.

2. It's coming on Christmas, they're cutting down trees but not for me; we have a fake tree.

3. You're a mean one Mr. Grinch.

4. Father Christmas is a funny book.

5. Silent night is more likely for me when wearing earplugs.

6. All I want for Christmas is a quiet, boring day on the 25th!

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to hanging out with my boys, tomorrow my plans include wedding shopping, and attending a wedding, and Sunday, I want to have a good time with the youth group grads!