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.

Sunday Stealing (x4)

(Link in meme-roll)

Complete the Thought (June 15)

1. I wish someone would ...

... empty my house the way I want it emptied without me.

2. When I order Chinese food ...

... I pretty much always get crab rangoon.

3. I know it's not everyone's favorite activity, but I actually enjoy ...

... napping.

5. A major pet peeve of mine is ...

... mispronunciation of common words.

6. I remember when my grandfather ...

(I do not remember either of them: one died 20+ years before I was born, the other I vaguely remember before he died when I was three; I don't remember anything about that)

7. I am not fazed at all by ...

... children trying to con me. Mostly I'm a very soft touch.

8. Long car rides ... 

... put me to sleep. I can't read or do anything but stare out the window, so they're just boring af.

9. I don't understand the fuss over ...

... most of any drama going on in Hollywood/Instagram.

10. When I'm home alone ...

... I'm generally very happy.

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)

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)

I'll Be Loving You (Forever) – 1989

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Nope. I'm not a fan of his. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)

Saturday 9: Lady of Spain (1952)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Saturday 9 x 2

(Link in meme-roll) 

Why Did I Choose You? (1965) 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Aunt Viv. Darren Stevens.

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll) 

Misc questions 

1. Which is more romantic: an expensive, glittering bouquet OR flowers that were hand picked as they grew beside the parkway? 

I am far from fussy, especially these days. But I'm less likely to sneeze at greenhouse flowers.

2. Do you know yourself well enough to understand why you feel the way you do? 

Years of therapy have helped with this.

3. Which do you do more often: let movies, songs and books put your feelings into words for you or put your feelings into words by yourself? 

Of late, it's been "feel the feelings all the time." I don't really see too many movies and reading has been hard this year.

4. Do you believe celebrities when they are endorsing a product? 

I don't pay a lot of attention to ads, and I'd like to think the person in the ad means nothing, but I just got stung by ThirdLove so I guess I do sometimes.

5. What kind of movies do you wish were made more often?

Good ones. It would be nice if we (the audience) would refuse to see the crappy ones.

6. Does fashion matter to you? 

Not really.

7. Should politicians be held to the same legal standards as everyone else? 

Of course they should! Some might argue they should be held to a higher standard.

8. If you became president, whom would you invite to sing at your inauguration? 

My go-to would be a classmate of Sparky's who sings at our church. But I have no interest in running for any office whatsoever.

9. Do you try to write/say what you are feeling in a true and simple way? 

Yes.

10. What is your worst daily habit? 

Sleeping. I just got up from an afternoon nap.

11. If you had your choice which one TV show would you have canceled? 

If I never heard another word about the whole "Game of Thrones" debacle, it will be too soon.

12. Do you like the taste of sweet or salt? 

I strongly prefer sweet, but I'm currently eating salted peanuts.

13. Are you very precise about what words you use to describe your feelings and thoughts?

I try to be. They aren't always read or heard precisely, though.

14. What do you feel the most guilty about? 

Presupposing I feel guilty about anything (a pretty solid presupposition in my case, but still....), I had a long moment of "why isn't Beasty living here?" this morning.

15. Do you meditate?

Not as such. I ponder, I pray, I focus on the clock ticking...

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
No One's Here to Sleep (2013)
Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) This song is the theme of How to Get Away with Murder, the legal drama that premiered in 2014 and airs on Thursday nights. Are you a fan?

Nope. I don't watch network TV. I don't watch TV much at all these days.

2) The song's refrain says, "I'll never catch up with you." Behind the wheel, do you carefully observe the speed limit? Or do you have a lead foot, making it hard for anyone to catch up with you?

Somewhere in between. I set my cruise control at 3-5 mph over the limit because anything less than that is too slow around here.

3) How to Get Away with Murder is about Annalise Keating, a law professor at a top Philadelphia university. She has a reputation for being tough, demanding and able to turn her students into successful defense attorneys. Tell us about a teacher who helped prepare you for life after graduation.

I'm still in contact (via Facebook) with one of my Communication profs who taught me a great deal about how see patterns in and reasons for communicative behavior in conversations. Blew my mind. I use what I learned in one of his classes literally EVERY day. Thanks, Pete!

4) The students she feels show the most promise -- and are recruited to help her solve murders -- are known as The Keating Four. Did you ever sense that you were your teacher's favorite?

I was a classic Teacher's Pet for most of my academic career. Somehow I had already figured out a lot of those comm. "rules" before college.... :)

5) Viola Davis was just nominated for an Emmy for playing Professor Keating. Ms. Davis was born on a farm in SC. Have you spent more of your life in a rural, suburban or urban setting?

I grew up solidly suburban, then lived for a few years in a fairly urban environment, and now I'm in what I call the exurbs: on a train line directly into The Big City, but surrounded by farms and woods.

6) Next to Annalise Keating, Viola Davis is best known for her Oscar-nominated role as Aibileen in the movie, The Help. Have you seen it?

Nope. I also don't see movies very often.

7) In 2014, the year How to Get Away with Murder premiered, we lost two famous comedians: Robin Williams and Joan Rivers. Who was the last person to make you laugh out loud? (This means actually, literally laughing out loud, not just keystroking LOL.)

It was probably something on Midsomer Murders (Netflix) or maybe Beast when I saw him earlier. I definitely giggled with Trud at breakfast this morning while we caught up on our crazy lives.

8) The 2014 Olympics were held in Sochi. Have you ever been to Russia? If not, is it a dream destination of yours?

I have. I went with a class in college in January 1985, when it was still the USSR. I would love to go back, but I don't think it's happening at this rate. Both politically and financially it's just not in the cards.

9) Random question: The sign on the railing says, "Wet Paint." Do you touch the railing to see if it's really wet?

Nope. I believe signs.

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
Jump (1984)
Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) David Lee Roth does a lot of jumping in this video. He credits his flashy moves to his study with marital artist Benny Urquidez. Have you ever tried karate, judo, or jiu-jitzu?

No, but I've been considering finding a tai ch'i class.

2) Dave claims to be fluent in Spanish. Say something "en español."

Entonces, David, si realmente hablas español, ¿Por qué eres tan necio?

3) Dave appeared as himself in an episode of The Sopranos, playing poker with Tony Soprano. Are you a good poker player?

I'm better than you'd expect.

4) Though known for his prowess on the guitar, Eddie Van Halen wrote the opening of this song at the keyboard when he was still new to the synthesizer. When do you recently venture outside your comfort zone? Was it a success?

Every damned day lately. I'm just trying to keep my balance at this point. At least no drunks hugged and kissed me this week at work....

5) Eddie's older brother Alex is the Van Halen drummer and his son, Wolfie, began touring with the band in 2007. Have you ever worked with a family member?

I used to work for my dad once in awhile. I went to work once with Mom and answered phones when most of the office couldn't get to work and they were closed.

6) Van Halen's first man[a]ger was Marshall Berle. Mr. Berle's uncle was Milton Berle. Does the name Milton Berle mean anything to you?

Mostly because of Happy Days and watching talk shows when I was a wee tot.

7) In 1984, when this song was popular, AT&T/Bell Telephone was broken up into 24 separate companies. Today, who is your phone provider?

My cell is Sprint; my landline is Frontier Communications.

8) Also in 1984, Michael Jackson was severely burned while filming a Pepsi commercial. Would we find any Pepsi in your kitchen right now?

Actually, no. Aldi's only sells Coke products. Beast normally only drinks diet Pepsi, but I haven't bought any specifically and on purpose since September.

9) Random question: Have you ever been so angry that you kicked or hit an inanimate object?

Well, yeah. I stopped that when it hurt my toes and did nothing to the inanimate object. Now I just hang my head down and cry; it's about as useful and less painful. Usually.

*This song was, for a few weeks, the 7:00 a.m. wakeup song when I was in college. It never failed to get me AND my roommate moving if only to fling the clock radio across the room to shut it off! 😁

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
Conversation Starters

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

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

2. What shows are you into?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

8. What’s your claim to fame?

Speaking too soon.

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

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

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

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

11. How often do you people-watch?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Beijing.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
Turn Me Loose (1959)
Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) In this song, Fabian sings he has change in his pocket. Every evening, Sam puts her change in the piggy bank on her kitchen counter. Do you do anything special with your coins? Or do they just jingle/jangle in your wallet or pocket until you spend them?

Pennies either go in my cup-holder in the car or into a penny jar by the register if there is one. Everything else just lives in my wallet till it's spent.

2) Fabian got his start because his neighbor in Philadelphia owned a record label and thought 14-year-old Fabian had the looks to be a teen idol. Tell us about a time recently when you were in the right place at the right time.

The last few weeks have seen that happen a few times, though not necessarily ME being in the right place. Certain others have been though.

3) His record label paid Fabian $30 week to study singing after school. What jobs/chores did you have when you were in high school? Did they prepare you for your eventual career?

I worked for about a year and a half at my local public library shelving books, and since you can still occasionally find me shelving books in a library, I'd say it totally did prepare me. Chores? Nothing much, just keeping out of trouble.

4) In 1959 he appeared on the cover of now-defunct magazines like Teen Screen and Dig. Who and what did you read about when you were a teenager?

I read Tiger Beat and Teen Beat. Still have a ton of those photos in a scrapbook too!

5) In the 1960s he moved from singing to acting. In 1965 he appeared in Ten Little Indians, a screen adaptation of an Agatha Christie mystery. Have you ever read an Agatha Christie book?

I'm pretty sure I've read ALL of her books, most of them more than once.

6) In 1973, in an attempt to jumpstart his career, he appeared nude in Playgirl magazine. By the time it hit the newsstands, he regretted it. Tell us about a time you were very embarrassed.

I think I gave up embarrassment for Lent a decade or so back.

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, naked feet! :) And my toesies are a little chilly, but I'm not a big fan of sox. And I'm wearing roll-up trousers that aren't rolled up on my legs.

8) 1959 also saw the premiere of The Twilight Zone on CBS. 58 years later, you can still see the show in reruns. Are you a fan?

I mean, I'll watch it if it's on, but I don't seek it out.

9) Random Question: While we're talking about TV ... Sam finds it disturbing that her brother claims he's seen every episode of Bad Blood, a show devoted to family members who have murdered their relatives. Do you enjoy "true crime" reality shows?

I like some of them. Some of them I like despite the wooden voice-overs and bad acting, but some of them are good. This one sounds a little exploitative.

Friday 5

(Link in meme-roll)
Payday

1. From whom did you receive your first real paycheck?

   My hometown library was my first actual check, as opposed to the cash I got for babysitting.

2. Among board games involving the exchange of money, which have you enjoyed most?

   I actually can't play Payday--I get really angry and turn into Terrible Loser. So, I'll go with Life.

3. PayDay is the name of a candy bar consisting of salted peanuts rolled in caramel surrounding a firm, nougat-like center. How does it sound to you if you haven’t tried it, and how do you like it if you have? Is there a similar candy bar you like better?

   It's surprisingly good. It always looked shady to me--nuts and sugar??--but once I gave in and tried it once, I was pleased. Don't know why it confused me so much: my dad spent a lot of time making (and eating) peanut-brittle, which tastes nothing like Paydays, by the way.

4. When did you last do something nice for yourself just because it was pay day?

   Years. I have money in the bank, so I don't have to wait till I get paid to buy most things. Yes, I do know how fortunate I am.

5. What person with the surname Day are you most familiar with?

   Dorothy Day, I guess.

* For the last question, I wanted to ask which member of the Partridge Family is your favorite, but I have a feeling that’s a question only I want to expound upon (Laurie, of course!), so I’ll just leave it here in case anyone is led to respond.

Well, this is just as easy for me: Keith of course! Though I always really liked Mom, too. If you liked Shirley Jones in that show, or in Oklahoma! DO NOT read her recent autobiography!

Friday 5 x 2

(Link in meme-roll)
What Ails ‘Ya

1. How do you treat a bad case of the Mondays?

   If it's really bad, I stay home in bed. Otherwise, I just suck it up and get on with things.

2. How do you fight off a case of the blahs?

   Recurring theme here: I sleep. This is, of course, the worst case scenario. If it's just a minor blah, I'll listen to music, read something, distract myself till I feel better.

3. How do you deal with a bad hair day?

   Pin it up, pull it off my face with pins and so forth, and forget about it. It's been my look for most of the summer, to be honest.

4. What’s your strategy for FOMO?

   I have, over the last 3-4 years, learned to sit still, bite my tongue and stay out of other people's piles of drama. I don't always succeed in suppressing the FOMO, but I'm much better at it than I ever used to be.

5. How prone are you to Instagram envy?

   Not at all. I don't even have an account. I'm too old for this shit. ;-)

I Don’t Get It Either
Questions inspired by stuff I don’t get.

1. Twitch is an enormously popular livestreaming platform mostly for watching people play video games. It has more than 1.5 million broadcasters and more than one million visitors per month, and Amazon acquired it for nearly a billion dollars in 2014. Which of your computer activities would you livestream if there were a way to make some money doing it?

   None of them. I just don't see the attraction of watching other people do stuff. Maybe it's because a large part of my job is watching people (and helping them) figure out stuff online every day. Watching that on my free time sounds tedious. I know it's me, because my son has a YouTube channel on which he uploads himself and a friend playing various video games and talking. It's a giant yawn for me. I also have a coworker who uses Twitch this same way with games. I don't get it. Not at all.

2. EDM (electronic dance music) is usually performed by DJs on stage in front of audiences, playing tracks they’ve mixed, right off their laptops. If you were a push-button DJ playing your tunes in a club, what would be your opening and closing songs, assuming everyone’s there because they’re into whatever sounds you’re into?

   I used to DJ at my college's radio station. Nothing like this, of course--we were not mixing our own songs because laptops didn't exist (as such) then, but I would think based on that experience that opening and closing with the same thing all the time would be really boring. Then again, I haven't been to a dance club in over 25 years...so what do I know? (I do like listening to EDM though--it's good, mindless stuff to motivate me when I need to get through a particularly dull task.)

3. What’s a good Adele song, and why is Adele so popular?

   I have tried to understand the Adele Phenomenon. Her voice is very good, but not The Best Ever. Her Estuary accent is grating and awful, plus hard to understand for most Americans. I think it's because her voice is perfect for heartbreak songs, and she does a great job at selling them. I can't recommend just one song; pretty much everything knocks you on your ass when you hear it the first time.

4. The Walking Dead?

   I have no idea. Zombies are not interesting to me in the least, except as an occasional plot device. There's some subtext about "why zombies, why now" that sounds very similar to last decade's "why vampires, why now" and all the faddish stuff before that. It'll pass. I hope, soon. Zombies are boring.

5. Every generation seems to arrive at a “They don’t write ’em like that anymore” attitude. Why does it seem like most middle-aged people lose interest in new music?

   Because we do not have the time nor the intense friendships that are required for wanting to be sure we are keeping up with all the pop culture bullshit. Once you have a full-time job (or multiple jobs), kids, sick parents, a late mortgage/rent payment, and IBS, the concept of knowing the favorite condiment of every member of [Insert Pop Band Name Here] becomes a little less "necessary" to know. I mean, it's still perfectly fine to know that stuff--or all the character's names and astrological signs on Doctor Who or Game of Thrones--but not everyone you meet needs proof that you're cool when you're 30+. Because, chances are, you are very much NOT, not to the actual Cool People.

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
Angel (1998)
... because Bev recommended it
Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) Sarah McLachlan wrote this song about someone she barely knew. She read the obit of Jonathan Melvoin, keyboard player for the Smashing Pumpkins, who died of a heroin overdose. What's the most recent news story that touched you deeply?

I have actively and methodically spent the last 7 months trying to disengage my emotions from the news because otherwise I would be locked in a small padded room screaming. However, Dumpster's pronouncement re transgender people this week got my attention, and I'm so gratified to see so many people telling him to fuck right off about that. 

2) Ms. McLachlan performed this in tribute to Linda McCartney at the 1999 Concert for Linda. She was expressing her hope that, in death, Linda found relief and peace after a long and painful battle with cancer. What do you think happens to us when we die?

I'm pretty sure our souls do whatever souls do and move on and don't care about what stupid things we're up to back here. At least I really hope so. I think after death, we all deserve some fun and joy no matter what our lives were like.

3) Daytime dramas General Hospital and As the World Turns used this song on-air after a major character died. Do you follow any "soap operas?"

I used to watch GH when I was in high school, back just after the whole Luke and Laura storyline. And I worked with some DOOL fans who insisted on watching at lunch in the library workroom back in the 80s/90s. Since then, no.

4) In 2007, Sarah donated her recording of this song to the ASPCA. Do you have a pet? If yes, how did you get it (shelter, pet store, etc.)?

We've gotten all our guinea pigs at a pet store, except the three that were born here after our "two males" turned out to be a boy and a (pregnant) girl.

5) She admits she can't watch those ASPCA commercials, where her recording of "Angel" plays over sad photos of animals. Is there a TV commercial that really gets to you (in either a good or a bad way)?

Yeah, I don't even try to watch those or the "kids need help" ads. I leave the room, fast forward past them, or mute them. I do not need more guilt in my life.

6) In 1994, Sarah was stalked by an obsessed fan. Tell us about a time you were really frightened. In retrospect, was your fear commensurate with the threat?

Usually, I react with a little more drama that necessary. However, sometimes I'm fairly calm in the face of crisis. Fear? I'm usually not afraid till later.

7) Sarah was adopted by Jack and Dorice McLachlan. Though she has a friendly relationship with her birth mother, she always considered Dorice her mother and sees herself behaving with her son the way Dorice did with her. Is there anyone in your family that you feel you resemble, either physically or by behavior?

My mother and I were too similar in personality to ever get along well. I'm trying to develop more of my dad's traits as an adult, although he certainly had plenty of less-than-admirable habits. I got my temper from both of them; this is pretty much awful. I look just like my dad's mom, apparently, whom he also resembled.

8) McLachlan is one of the founders of Lilith Fair, a summer concert series designed to showcase talented female performers. Do/did your summer plans include an outdoor concert?

Nope. I don't do crowds, I rarely do concerts, and I really don't like outdoor concerts like this at all.

9) Random question: Which of these men would you most like to be seated with at dinner -- Clint Eastwood, Prince William or Jimmy Fallon?

Jimmy Fallon. I'd probably not be able to eat a bite from laughing, but what a hoot. Prince William...well, that would be mortifying, thanks! And Clint? Uhm. Maybe 30 or so years ago....

I'm GLOWing

You Are Sheila

You are often misunderstood, but you are quite straightforward. What you see is what you get with you. You tend to trust your instincts above all else. However, you have learned that your instincts can sometimes be wrong. You are very self-protective, and that has gotten you far in life. Sometimes you just need to let loose and have fun though! You have a rough and tough exterior, and [some] people are a little scared of you. On the inside, you are as sweet as can be.

What Glow Lady Are You?

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
The Joker (1973)
because Stacy recommended it.
Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) In this song, Steve Miller claims he's a picker, grinner, sinner, lover, smoker and joker. Do any of those six words describe you?

We're all sinners. I'm often grinning and joking I don't smoke, or pick. I guess I'm a lover, though.

2) He maintains he's still a midnight toker. When's the last time you got high?

If you include booze in the mood-altering things, then last October.

3) The lyrics include a reference to peaches. Name your favorite fruit.

I do like fresh-off-the-tree peaches. Not grocery store peaches--yuck. I guess my overall favorite is apples. Also best right-off-the-branch, but they're OK from the store, at least until spring.

4) This song had a big impact on the character of Joey on Friends, who had an imaginary friend named Maurice with the occupation of space cowboy. Did you ever have an imaginary friend?

Yup. I think ALL imaginary friends are space cowboys! However, mine was pretty much gone by 1973....

5) Steve Miller is the pride of Milwaukee, WI. What else is Milwaukee famous for?

Miller Beer. A stupid sheriff right now. The guys who made the Airplane movies. That's three. I could dig up another couple of dozen off the top of my head if you'd like?

6) Steve Miller considers himself a serious blues guitarist. When did you last feel like singing the blues?

Damn, it's a daily thing. White-person blues.

7) In 1973, when this song was popular, you could buy a portable 8-track tape player for $44.50. On what device do you listen to music most often?

I mostly listen to Spotify, then probably Sirius XM (in the car). My car CD player needs work--it plays but there's a weird echo effect in music that's really distracting.

8) A Curious George book packaged with a Curious George plush toy was a big seller at Christmas 1973. Tell us about a toy -- either given or received -- that brightened a holiday or birthday for you.

We gave Sparky a Pillow Pet his freshman year in college for Christmas. It was adorable how much he adored that thing during college...which is about how long it lasted too.

9) M*A*S*H was one of TV's top-rated shows in 1973. Who is your favorite M*A*S*H character?

This is a hard question. It depends on the day: some days are just Klinger days, some days are Radar days. Hot Lips had some really good traits. Both of the colonels were wonderful in their own ways. Hawkeye, of course. I can't say I ever found Frank or Charles very appealing, and Trapper never connected with me. I did like BJ a lot. My absolute favorite "visiting" character was Sidney Freeman, though.

Saturday 9

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

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

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

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

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

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

Carol, except I was much less of a jerk.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
Him or Me -- What's It Gonna Be? (1967)
Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) In this song, a man pleads with his girlfriend to make up her mind. Do you consider yourself decisive?

I can be. But I'm also pretty good at dithering endlessly. Ask Beast. It makes him insane. But I was pretty dogged and single-minded at the ER the other night telling the medical staff off after some out-of-line behavior from someone with an M.D. after his name.

Since this song is all about either/or, we're using that as our theme this Saturday ...
2) Choose a condiment: Catsup or mustard?

Depends on what I'm having with it. Ham gets mustard. Brats get mustard. French fries are ketchup only. Hot dogs, despite my location where ketchup is frowned on, get both.

3) Choose a sci-fi series: Star Wars or Star Trek?

Oh, I'm all about Trek. Beast is both, but leans more toward Wars.

4) Choose your spy: James Bond or Jason Bourne?

Honestly, I have zero interest in spies. I prefer to read about true spy stuff, not fiction. It's weird, I know.

5) Choose your winter sport: Football or hockey?

Football. Duh.

6) Choose your breakfast: Pancakes or waffles?

I prefer pancakes.

7) Choose your side: French fries or potato chips?

Home-made chips FTW. Otherwise, fries, but you can have them.

8) Choose your chore: Washing dishes or doing laundry?

Dishes. OMG, I hate laundry. And I really don't mind dishes.

9) Choose your nextdoor neighbors: Munsters or Addams Family?

Munsters because they just had less of a clue all the way round. They always seemed totally fake. The Addamses, on the other hand, might have been more oblivious, but totally more into the whole thing. And frankly, worse neighbors.