Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)

Georgia on My Mind (1978)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sunday Stealing

January

Taken from League of Extraordinary Penpals 

1. What are your plans for January? 

I have no big plans. I need to do the annual guardianship report for the courts this week. I get installed as an elder in front of the (Zoom) congregation next Sunday. I am desultorily shopping for Sparky's birthday present.

2. What do you want to see happen in 2021? 

I would like to see Biden surprise me with being less of a centrist than he clearly is.

3. What would you give a 5 star rating? 

Medical professionals.

4. Do you have writing goals for 2021? 

Just this sort of thing. I'm de facto editor for Sparky's writing, so that, too.

5. How do you feel about memoirs? 

I think they are probably really therapeutic to write. Many don't need to be published, and fewer are useful for anyone else.

6. If you could join any musical group who would you choose? 

The Go-Gos. The Bangles. The Spice Girls. Basically, girl groups, preferably managed by women.

7. What are your favorite genres across all media? 

I like suspenseful reads and movies. Not gory, especially not movies, but well-written twisty stuff.

8. What candle scents are your favorite? 

"Clean" scents. I've got a STRONG vanilla one going right now.

9. How well can you mimic other accents or voices? 

I do it mostly unconsciously, and often.

10. What books are on your TBR list in 2021? 

I'm in a a Michael Connelly and Louise Penny phase right now, and I'm struggling to read anything very deep, so it's looking like a lot of pretty formulaic mysteries otherwise.

11. When do you decide it’s time to upgrade/buy something new? 

When whatever-it-is stops working right, or just gets very worn out, or holey.

12. Why is your favorite color your favorite color? 

Blue. Forever and always.

13. Who understands you the best? 

lol--no one
Maybe you-all?

14. Do you write letters? 

Not anymore. Occasional emails and lots of texts.

15. How do you keep going when times are hard?

Guilt over failing other people.

Friday 5

(Link in meme-roll) 

Watching my figure 

1. What are some figurines you own?

I have several display cabinets around the house, most of which are because at some point I started collecting salt-n-peppers. But I've got some childhood doodads and some souvenir things from trips, too. I'll try to take a pic and post the biggest display.  (don't hold your breath--it's been a rough week and I may never leave my recliner again)  

2. What are you trying to figure out? 

Why I insist on thinking the best of people before I know them. I have been so very disappointed, especially this week.

3. Two circles or one continuous motion: how do you write the figure 8? 

Mostly, it's all one line, but sometimes I use the two-circle method. Usually the latter is when I'm making it a POINT to be seen. Sometimes, it's because my first attempt ended up looking like a messing 5 or 3.

4. How do you feel about Fig Newtons? 

I like them! But the seeds in them are a little disconcerting when I haven't eaten one for awhile.

5. What’s a good metaphor to describe your first week of 2021?

Shitstorm comes to mind....

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
Heartbreak Hotel (1956)
Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) Elvis checked in to the hotel at the end of Lonely Street. Where was the last hotel or motel you stayed at?

It was last year, near a State Park where I spent a getaway weekend by myself. Irony Street.

2) He sings that Heartbreak Hotel is always crowded. The fear of crowds is so prevalent that it has four names (enochlophobia, ochlophobia, demophobia and agoraphobia). Are you comfortable in a crowd?

I'm rarely actively fearful in a crowd, but I don't like being in a mass of people just because people act weirder in a crowd than they do individually. I don't want to get mixed up in any of that negative, dangerous weirdness. Plus, I just hate waiting (I'm so American), and where there are crowds there are lines.

3) The desk clerk at Heartbreak Hotel is dressed black. Do you often wear all black?

Often enough, though that is mostly by accident. I just have a lot of dark-colored clothes, especially in the winter. My new coat, though, is bright blue. I love it.

4) The song was written by Mae Boren Axton, who said it was inspired by the story of an anonymous young man's suicide in a hotel. She said she read in The Miami Herald that the John Doe left behind a note that said, "I walk a lonely street." What's the last note you handwrote? (Hopefully it was more upbeat.)

I wrote some notes yesterday during my meeting with the facility director where Beast is living. I write notes every day. Most of them are to me, and end up in the recycling bin eventually.

5) When Elvis was 11, his parents bought him a guitar. He had asked for a rifle, but his mama convinced him a guitar was a better idea. Tell us about a time one of your parents was right about something.

My parents were, of course, as all parents are, usually right about the important stuff. My mom told me once she'd "never liked" one of my high school friends, and in some ways she was right. On the other hand, she thought another friend was wonderful, and he was my source for all things drug- and alcohol-related, so she wasn't quite on point (on fleek? I don't understand how this is supposed to work) on that one.

6) Not long before "Heartbreak Hotel" was recorded, Elvis' father recommended he give up the guitar and become a truck driver. Tell us about a time one of your parents was wrong about something.

Ooops, I jumped the gun there. I'll just say that I can't think of too many instances of my Dad being wrong; he stuck to the Big Advice, like loving people and trying hard to do right by them. This shouldn't be read that he was perfect by any means! He also injured himself badly in the eye during a safety meeting on his worksite when I was 10.

7) There are many stories about Elvis' manager, Col. Tom Parker. One anecdote, about his career before Elvis, has the Colonel painting sparrows yellow so he could sell them as canaries. Have you ever been ripped off?

Oh yeah, a few times over 54 years.

8) Speaking of birds, Elvis once owned a peacock. It damaged his cars, so he gave it to the Memphis Zoo. In earlier days, it might have been dinner, for peacock was considered a medieval delicacy. What's the last poultry you prepared?

I bought a barrel of KFC last weekend and ate it all week. The last time I cooked it? Months. Literally. I haven't cooked much in the last few months, except reheating things and/or making soup or spaghetti.

9) Random question: You and a friend have dinner at a restaurant. Your friend left her wallet at home, so you pick up the entire tab of $62, including tip. A few weeks later, you two meet for lunch and when the bill comes, she puts down half. Do you remind her that she still owes you $31 from the last time you dined together?

If she's a good friend, I'm pretty sure this discussion would have already happened, and the only comment I'd make now is raised eyebrows. In fact, I'd like to think that I'd put on my coat and wave bye, but I doubt I'd have the nerve. But we certainly would have separate checks if (big if there) we ever had a meal together henceforward.

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
Monday Morning Meme

1. How has your life most benefited from the Internet? Whether it’s meeting people, cutting business overhead, finding rare collectibles, or simply sharing funny cat pictures, share how the web has made life easier.

I've been able to connect with all kinds of people I would normally never have met. That is the best part of the internet as a whole. And I can choose not to engage with people online who are jerks, unlike real life.

2. How do you deal with negative comments on your blog?

Depends on what kind of negativity. If it's insanity, I just delete it. If it's conversational, I'll conversate.

3. There’s never enough time, is there? What would you do with an extra three hours today?

Sleep. It's always about sleep.

4. The getaway car is waiting outside – where is it taking you?

Anywhere. Honestly, but I can only be gone for about 12 hours and then I need to get back to work.

5. Who was your "arch enemy" in high school? Do you have any enemies today?

I tried :hard to not be on anyone's radar in high school. To be honest, by the time high school rolled around, I didn't really worry too much. Grade school was a whole different story; there was this kid named Paul who hated me....

6. You’re giving the keynote address to the graduating seniors of a high school today. What’s your advice to them?

Prioritize, and enjoy the ride.

7. Thinking of words of wisdom: What's the worst advice you've ever received?

"Be yourself" when I was young. WTH? I had no idea who I was so this was completely unhelpful!

8. Tell us about the best summer vacation you EVER had.

I spent 5 weeks with my oldest sister Ellen and her family in 1975 while my parents went overseas to visit Jean and Reg for the first time. It was the best 5 weeks of my childhood.

9. What do you have to have with you when you travel? Why?

My meds, and about thirty other practical things.

10. Would you accept $1,000,000 tax free, if it meant you had to leave the country and never come back?

Absolutely!

11. Do you believe the world will be a better, or worse, place 100 years from now?

I have to believe that it will be better than it is right now.

12. Do you expect to buy a new winter coat this year?

Nope. No money for that.

13. If you could spend one year in perfect happiness but afterward would remember nothing of the experience, would you do so?

Nope. It's all about the memories for me.

+ + + + + + + + +

A Book Meme

1. Do you prefer hardcover, paperback, or Kindle...and why?

Overall, I'd rather read a hardcover, but it's not like I refuse to read ebooks or paperbacks (or audiobooks for that matter). Why? I can block open a hardcover on a counter easier than a paperback or reader.

2. If I were to own a book shop I would call it ...

I wouldn't own a bookstore. I wouldn't be a good seller of anything at all.

3. My favorite quote from a book (mention the title) is ...

“Hell is — other people!” ―Jean-Paul Sartre (No Exit)

4. The author (alive or dead) I would love to have lunch with would be ...

Sartre would actually be an interesting choice. He'd probably want to smoke though. Yuck.

5. If I was going to a deserted island and could only bring one book, except for the SAS survival guide, it would be ...

I wouldn't be bringing books. I'd be too busy trying to do things like eat and get rescued.

6. I would love someone to invent a bookish gadget that ...

... corrected all the typos and grammar issues in books. It's so distracting when an author uses the wrong word.

7. The smell of an old book reminds me of ...

... allergies. Really, I only sniff brand-new books. Old books are full of mold and dust and god-only-knows what else.

8. If I could be the lead character in a book (mention the title), it would be ...

... Alice in Wonderland. Although I do feel as if I'm there more often than not.

9. The most over-rated book of all time is...

... just about anything by Hemingway. Or Flaubert.

10. I hate it when a book...

... can't get itself started until page 100 or later. Ugh!!

Friday 5 x5

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

1. What’s the best layered food?

   Dirt cake is right up there....

2. What’s the best rolled food?

   I like those little salami/cheese/tortilla things.

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

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

4. What’s a food that scares you?

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

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

   Yogurt.

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

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

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

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

   I watered plants sometime recently....

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

   Echidnas are cool.

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

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

5. What’s in your pocket?

   Chapstick.

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

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

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

2. What most recently gave you goosebumps?

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

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

   Sleeping in chairs.

4. What’s making your heart ache?

   Everything is hard right now.

5. What are you yawning at?

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

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

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

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

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

   Sleep.

3. What’s a good song about space?

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

4. What’s under your bed?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

   I loved making plaster molds and painting them.

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

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

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

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

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
Wake Me Up Before You Go Go (1984)
Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) This song was inspired by a note WHAM! partner Andrew Ridgeley left for his parents. He accidentally wrote "go" twice. What was the last handwritten note you left for someone?

I write notes to people at work all the time. I'm pretty much certain there's no way around a handwritten note once in awhile, even with text and IM and email. Sometimes you need to put something WITH the thing you're talking about -- in my case books than need specific attention.
Also, an aside: back when this song was on the radio all the time, I worked with a dear friend named Ian who was from England and of Portuguese and Irish descent. We always teased him because he really had a whole George Michael vibe going, in looks and general coolness. We all were living in the same house together as workmates, about 10 of us, and one morning he left me a note saying "Wake me up before you go-go, Ian" with musical notes on it. I still have it somewhere. I've, sadly, lost track of Ian himself, however. :'(

2) Born Georgios Panayiotou, George Michael was the son of the Greek restauranteur in East London. When you think of Greek cuisine, what comes to mind?

Light & flaky dough, fish, amazing sauces, street gyros, baklava. I so wish I were in Athens or Ydra right now.......

3) He was a terrible driver and admitted his license was suspended a number of times. Have you ever lost your license?

Nope. I've had precisely 2 traffic tickets in my life.  There have been a lot of other times I skated away with only fear and a guilty conscience to keep me honest, for which I'm very thankful.

4) WHAM! partner Andrew Ridgeley, on the other hand, is a talented driver who got to live his fantasy by racing Formula Three in Monaco. There are companies that sell racetrack driving experiences that allow you to spin around the track at dizzying speeds. Is this something you like to try?

YES!! This sounds absolutely terrifying, and fun.

5) In 1990, Frank Sinatra famously gave George Michael advice. Ol' Blue Eyes told the younger man to enjoy his fame, to remember all those lean nights traveling from gig to gig by bus and, now that he's successful, "loosen up and swing, man." Who last gave you advice? Did you take it?

People give me advice at work all day, every damn day. I don't listen to most of it unless it's just plain weird. I can't think of anything from yesterday beyond the usual demand that I have a good weekend. lol

6) Mr. Michael's neighbors have reported since his passing that he seemed to live rather quietly, and that they usually saw him when he was out walking his three dogs. Tell us about the last time you spoke to one of your neighbors.

It's winter in the Upper Midwest of the U.S. The only reason I know I have neighbors at all is that their cars go in & out of the driveways, and the snow gets shoveled. Oh and the dogs are let out & back in.
Actually, within about six weeks in late fall we got new neighbors, and I haven't even really identified one of the households' people for sure yet. They are literally one house over and across from us, but it's been brutal and there are no reasons to go outside and be social this time of year.

7) Fansites tell us that George Michael's favorite cereal was cornflakes. What breakfast cereals are currently in your kitchen?

Off-brand Froot Loops and Cinnamon Toast thingies and some muesli-ish stuff for my family members when they visit. Technically, only the former is in my kitchen; the others are in the pantry. The muesli probably needs to be pitched.

8) In 1984, when "Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go" was popular, Murder, She Wrote premiered on CBS. Today it's still seen in reruns all over the world. Are you a fan?

Nope. I mean, really, she lived in a tiny little town and people dropped dead around her for 12 seasons. Wouldn't that be a tad bit suspicious in real life?

9) RANDOM QUESTION: What's your secret to a good night's sleep?

Melatonin, exhaustion, and earplugs.

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
Baby's in Black (1964)
Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) Black is this week's signature color because Friday, November 25, was "Black Friday," when retailers cut their prices and consumers flock to the stores. Did you score any "Black Friday" bargains?

Hell no! i worked yesterday. Had I not worked, I would have been right here at home all day.

2) Feasting and football are also popular Thanksgiving weekend pastimes. Do your Thursday-Sunday plans include pigging out or watching a game?

Did both on Thursday. All the games were teams I didn't care about at all. I will probably do more eating today and tomorrow, but I think I'm footballed out. Sparky and I may go to a movie this afternoon.

3) At Thanksgiving dinners, Crazy Sam's homemade gravy is always a hit. (Probably because she's so generous with the cognac, which gives the gravy a nutty taste.) What was particularly delicious at your Thanksgiving table?

Our turkey always turns out well. The mashed potatoes generally turn out well, and we make plenty.

4) Among the biggest the Black Friday advertisers are Target, Kohl's, Macy's and Best Buy. If you could have a $100 gift card to any one of those stores, which would you choose?

Probably Kohl's. I am tired of my clothes.

5) This week's song, "Baby's in Black," is about a girl who wears black because she's in mourning. Do you find that the color you're wearing reflects your mood?

Not particularly. I mean, certain articles make me feel better but it's not the color it's the associations I have with them.

6) The woman who inspired this song, Astrid Kirchherr, has been friends with Paul McCartney since he and his bandmates (John Lennon, George Harrison, Stu Sutcliffe and Pete Best) met her in Hamburg back in 1960. Tell us what you believe are the components of a strong, lasting friendship.

Honesty, patience, space, humor, and kindness.

7) In the early days of the Beatles, Paul McCartney and John Lennon began writing a play but abandoned it. Do you have a novel, painting, play, song or poem that you're going to finish "someday?"

I haven't even started my great American novel!

8) When he was 16, George Harrison dreamed of moving to Canada, Australia or Malta. In just a few years, he would visit all those places with Beatles and eventually decided there was no place like home and stayed in England. Have you ever thought about moving to another country? If so, where?

I have occasionally wanted a place to escape to, but as I age, I prefer to stay near enough home. I just would like a bolthole.

9) Random question: Finish this sentence -- If you want me to give you "yes" for an answer, the best time to approach me is ___________________.

...when I'm fed and sleepy.

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
Sit Right Down And Write Myself A Letter Meme

When was the last time you wrote a letter to someone on paper?

It's been a very long time. I (hand)write notes to Beast fairly often, but I can't tell you the last time I sent a letter--not a store-bought card with my signature--in the mail.

Can you change the oil on a car?

I could if I wanted to, but I'd really rather just pay someone to do it if/when Beast stops taking care of it.

Ever gotten a speeding ticket?

Yup. No clue if I was actually speeding, but since then I am careful to set my cruise control for the exact speed limit on that road.

Run out of gas?

Nope. Not quite, though I've been within a few miles of it more than once.

Favorite kind of sandwich?

Roast beef with horseradish and swiss on wheat bread. Or flat cheese and potato chip on white bread with butter.

Best thing to eat for breakfast?

Donuts.

What is your usual bedtime?

It hovers around 9, but I almost always read or do puzzles for awhile before I sleep.

Are you lazy?

For sure. I'm the queen of this!

When you were a kid, what did you dress up as for Halloween?

I remember a clown costume and a rabbit costume vividly and absolutely nothing else. I know I was costumed every year though.

Do you have any magazine subscriptions?

I do. I still get Ms., Entertainment Weekly, and a Presbyterian Church publication.

Which are better, Legos or Lincoln Logs?

Lincoln Logs, but only if they're wooden!

Are you stubborn?

Oh my God, yes!

Who is better…Leno or Letterman?

Uhm. Aren't they both gone now? I didn't really care for either of their shows.

Ever watch soap operas?

Not for 25 years.

Afraid of heights?

Nope.

Sing in the car?

All the time.

Dance in the shower?

This seems very dangerous. No.

Dance in the car?

Yes. Also dangerous, but I'm careful.

Ever used a gun?

Not a real one.

Do you think musicals are cheesy?

I LOVE musicals!! The cheesier the better.

Is Christmas stressful?

Yes!!

Ever eat a pierogi?

Uh, yeah. I've been to Milwaukee and other places where lots of Polish people settled back in the day.

Major annoyance right now?

Beast's health tops everything. It's like a freaking brush fire: neck fixed, shoulder flares and subsides, week-long flu bug, self-pity, numb fingers, post-nasal drip that never ends, alcohol more or less off the table (he says), depression, soreness from PT or therapeutic massage, achy joints from weather weirdness, sinus problems develop into an endless cough, complete lack of stamina, minor Lyme disease, and now we've spotted another bulging disc in this thoracic region! That doesn't even get into the glucose and blood-sugar issues. So basically, I'm married to an 80-year-old.

Occupations you wanted to be when you were a kid?

Grocery checker, teacher, the usual girl stuff, and writer of course.

Do you believe in ghosts?

I believe in something like ghosts.

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
Best Day of My Life (2013)
Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) This song begins by mentioning clouds. Do you see clouds in the sky this fine Saturday?

I see nothing but clouds this not-so-fine Saturday. The sky, she be white.

2) Lead singer Zac Barnett sings that, "Everything is looking up." What are you looking forward to today?

Not much, aside from not having a ton of stuff to do: some laundry, a grocery-shopping trip later, and I'm sure there's NASCAR or something involved cars going fast.

3) 2016 is not yet half over, but what's been your best day so far this year?

I had a couple of dreamlike, just-about-perfect-in-every-way days on the cruise.

4) The members of the group, American Authors, met in college. When is the last time you heard from a school chum? Do you know them from grammar school, high school or college?

I've been talking to a friend from my single-digit years who went to the same after-school babysitter with me back then. It's quite weird that I have literally known her longer than anyone on Facebook aside from family, 46 years. I have another friend from almost as long ago who was my bestie in junior high and high school--though to be clear I met her when we were 6--and then quite a few people from elementary school on through graduate school.

5) One of the all-time best-selling American authors is romance writer Danielle Steele. She's been writing for more than 40 years and has sold more than 800 million books. Have you read any of her work?

I read Palomino in my mom's Good Housekeeping. That was her first book, I think, and as a young teen it was SOOO VERY roMANTic and heartstopping. I loved it. Then I glanced through her books once I started the librarian gig and was professionally appalled at them. Eventually, about 15 years ago, I decided to read whatever one was coming out just to say I'd read a recent one.O . M . G . L'horreur!

6) Have you ever dreamed of being an author?

All the time. Still do. If I'm gonna do it, I should just do it. But I'm terrified because of all the really good books I've read. I don't want to suck.

7) Do you have an e-reader?

I do. It's currently charging. I finished Tami Hoag's latest this morning--really good by the way!

8) American Authors rang in 2016 in Chicago, giving an outdoor concert on New Year's Eve on a stage not far from Lake Michigan. There are 5 Great Lakes in all,including Lake Michigan. Without looking it up, name the other 4.

Huron, Ontario, Michigan, Erie, Superior. It's easy once you know the acronym. ;-)

9) Random question: You see photos on Facebook of a dinner party hosted by a friend. You recognize most of the attendees, yet you weren't invited. How do you feel? Left out and angry? Do you wonder what you may have done to offend your friend? Or do you just forget about it and move on?

I'd probably wonder why I wasn't included, but it does sort of depend on the occasion and how close a friend we're talking about. If it were a (for instance) apparently church-wide event at church, I'd be very hurt. If it were a birthday party or something at someone's home...meh, that's fine. I'd miss the cake, but I'm not going to be all pouty about it. Generally, I think I would try to forget I saw the pictures and move on.

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
Carry A Tune Meme

Do you own a tablet of any kind?

I have a Nook. Beast does as well. And his new work computer is a Microsoft Surface Pro.

What’s something people always assume about you that isn’t true?

That I've read every book in the library where I work. It's also possible that many people think my only emotional setting is anger. It's definitely not!

On a scale of 1-10, how much do elevators scare you?

I guess that would be a 1. Unless I can go to 0.

When you’re upset, do you vent to people or do you keep to yourself?

Heh, I think we can all acknowledge that I'm a venter. I've been working on trying to keep some things from spewing. It's haaaaarrrrrrrrrrd.

Have you ever watched a meteor shower?

Yes. I imagine it would be wonderful out in the country, on a mountain or something. In town, on our back porch was underwhelming.

Do you tend to put things off until the last minute?

Uh...er... yes.

How do you react to random strangers suddenly trying to make conversation with you?

I live in the Midwest. People do this ALL THE TIME! As do I. It's expected! ;-)

Do you have a lucky number?

I have numbers I really like, but I don't really do the "lucky number" thing. 3 is good. So is 16. And 8.

Would you go out to dinner with Oprah?

If she's buying, sure! It better not be a Weight Watchers meal, either!!

Did you ever play sports?

I was on the 7th grade girls volleyball team, and the 8th grade basketball team. Hated both, though I wasn't as awful as I thought I was then.

Do you feel guilty if you throw food away?

YES! Holy cow, this makes me nuts, and I do it all the time because I'm not my mom, who kept food WELL PAST it's possible safety date.

Do you think you could make it as a baker?

Sure. I love baking. It's eating the stuff that causes the problem. And making time to do it and cleaning up.

Are you one of those people who are wearing scarves with everything?

Not with everything, no, but I have learned the joy of scarves in the winter in a drafty, chilly building.

Have you ever been in a castle?

I have! Many times! Well, many castles I guess. German, Chinese, Scottish, Russian, English and Italian. And one American that I can be fairly sure that no one reading this has heard of much less visited.

When you were little, did you ever play with Playdoh?

Not until my nieces had it. I missed Playdoh for myself by about 3 years.

Would you rather write a mystery or love story?

Mystery. I'm pretty sure I could toss together a decent love story in about 18 hours' worth of work. A mystery would take more time. Really, though, I'd rather write a good book, regardless of genre, and that will take more than 18 hours for sure.

Tell me about your worst fashion mistake:

Every day, my friend, every day.

Do you hate it when people smoke around you?

I'm allergic, so yeah, it's not my favorite. I'm not all militant about it, but I will move away as far as possible from smoke.

How are you wearing your hair right now?

I have short hair, so it's the same everyday. Today it's pretty flat and blah, kind of like my attitude. Having just looked at a picture I just posted on Facebook, however, "flat" is a relative term. My hair is just curly enough to be fluffy even when it's having a shitty day.

When’s the last time you were sick?

I haven't felt very good all week, but I haven't been actually sick for awhile. Knock wood.

Would you rather have OJ or milk with your breakfast?

Neither! OK, I'll go with OJ, but it had better be fresh and pulp-free!

What were you doing thirty minutes ago?

Cleaning the guinea pig cage. I think?

Do you own any school related clothing articles?

I'm wearing pajama bottoms from my college alma mater right now. They are orange and blue, so it's a color scheme I can get behind today. (I don't have anything that is Panthers, though I really like them too.)

Would you rather call people or have them call you?

I'd rather not talk on the phone, period. Text, email, IM...unless you're my son. :-)

Can you carry a tune?

Once I had my surgery last winter and recovered, my voice came back! I can sing. Not great, not solo-worthy or anything, but I can sing.

Who was the last person who unexpectedly texted you?

Maybe one of the people at one of my meetings. Not a huge surprise: I had called her in a bit of a panic. I didn't expect her to text. It's all good. For now.

Who do you text the most?

Beast. Sparky is a close second.

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
All Random

1) Do you prefer your pickle sliced thin, sliced thick, or in a spear?

I like my pickle to be dill. Otherwise, I'm not worried about the shape. Assuming they'll be in a sandwich, of course, I'd like them sliced. I'm really not fussy about pickles.

2) What kind of eggs do you like best for breakfast?

Depends on the day. Some days are omelet days. Some days are over-easy-with-toast days.

3) If you got 2 pennies for change, would you pocket them or leave them on the counter for the next person?

Inside the store, I usually leave them. Drive-thru, they go in my cup-holder.

4) You’re now in charge of the manners for the planet. Tell us the new rules for cellphone etiquette.

Oh, jeez, I'm just not EVEN.... If... No, I can't. The whole issue makes me so twitchy. Be polite: F2F is more important than whatever your phone is doing. That's the etiquette.

5) You’re about to write a novel. What genre will it be (sci fi, chick lit, historical fiction, comic …)?

I'd love to write a mystery. However, I'm pretty sure my strong suit is nonfiction.

6) Is it a bad thing to lie to save a friend’s feelings?

Depends on the size of the lie and how direct. "That shirt is cute" isn't really lie. "You're new haircut looks good" is more of a lie (if it doesn't). "I think your new boyfriend is awesome" when you know he's a serial cheater (or worse)...not ok.

7) Is your big toe your longest toe?

Actually, my second toe is a squidge longer from base to tip. My big toe, weirdly, starts higher.

8) Hot stone massage: yea or nay?

Sure. My therapist uses hot stones regularly. As long as they aren't burn-hot, it feels good.

9) Do you check the mirror before going out?

I mean ... at some point, I have looked in the mirror, yes. We don't have a mirror by either door, though, so I should probably remedy that.

the world shrieks and sinks talons into our hearts. This we call memory

(From Amy...with her title)

Have you ever written a love letter?

Yes. The question really should be whether I've ever mailed that letter. ;-) [yes, I have done this--several of them--written and mailed]

How many Valentine's cards did you receive this year?

I think I got one from Beast...? That was over 6 months ago...who knows, really. The only person in my immediate family who's in trouble for lack of cards is NOT Beast.

Have you ever made a ball of twine or rubber bands?

Better a ball than finding the twine all over the floor/drawer tangled in everything else. As for rubber bands, I once bought a ball of them...and the vast majority dried up before I could put them to use. I almost never use them. I don't like the way they make my hands smell. OTOH, I used to chew on them when I was a kid. Yeee-uuuuck!!

Could you ever be a living organ donor?

I could! Just ask. I've been on the bone marrow registry for over 20 years, waiting.

Have you ever made someone cry?

I am Mommy, hear me roar! Usually roaring involves "no," of course. And I've caused tears in others too, including (I'm sure) my parents and other family and friends near and far.

If you could have a full scholarship to any university what would you choose to study?

Theology? I wouldn't mind going to seminary...IF I had all the time and money in the world, and patience to deal with the more 'traditional' students.

Do you prefer honey or jam?

Honey. No contest. The fresher the better. I don't like chunks in my bread-spread.

How fast can you get changed?

If it's a one-for-one change--T-shirt/jeans to T-shirt/jeans--probably 90 seconds. If socks, underwear, jewelry, or a change in the level of dressiness is involved, it could take me 20 minutes or so. Or more if we're adding in nylons and a totally different hairstyle. And of course, this assumes that the clothes I'm changing into have already been pulled together before I start shedding.

Would you rather be the fella in a movie who gets the girl or the baddie with all the good lines?

Oh, I'm all about the sidekick with all the good lines. That doesn't mean I'm a baddie, but I prefer comedy to romance.

Would you rather have a man's top half and a woman's bottom half or visa versa?

I'd pretty much rather be one or the other all over, my apologies to hermaphrodites and intergender people everywhere.

If you met a genie who offered you three wishes, what would you wish for? "More wishes" does not count!

First would be that all the kids living horrible lives be sorted into better living conditions.
Secondly, everyone forgets everything about how to build nuclear armaments and the mere thought of developing them becomes as taboo as incest across all cultures (and we can safely dismantle the bombs already extant).
Finally, people who make their living off fostering hatefulness all develop a horrific, new, incurable visually-repulsive disease that can only be cured by being kind 24/7 for at least 10 years.

Have you ever been fishing?

I have. Twice. Maybe thrice. Yaaawwwwwnnnnn.

What was the last social faux pas you made?

I would think that walking into the workroom yesterday at about 4:02 and, as I walked the 20 feet to my desk, saying with increasing volume as I approached said work area, "...fuck fuck fuck Fuck Fuck FUCK FUCK FUCK!!" would count, no? There are some infuriatingly stupid people in the world. And no, this is not in reference to a coworker, either.

Saturday 9

(Link in meme-roll)
Heartbeat Song (2015)
... because Cat recommended it (hey, that's me!)
Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) Kelly Clarkson is singing an upbeat song about falling in love. Think of your favorite love song. Is it about finding love or losing it?

I think this song is about her baby, actually, or maybe I'm misremembering an interview I saw when this song first came out. Or maybe for me it's about my son. Anyway, I don't like songs about losing love. I like silly love songs, but not mindlessly stupid ones.

2) This song was co-written by Kara DioGuardi, who was a judge on American Idol. Kelly was, of course, the first American Idol. Do you watch Idol, The Voice, or America's Got Talent?

Nope.

3) In this video, Kelly is blonde. Clairol based a famous ad campaign around the assertion that "blondes have more fun." Tell us another commercial catchphrase (it can be for any product at all).

"Two all-beef patties, special sauce, lettuce, cheese, pickles, onions on a sesame seed bun." And yes, I really did type that from memory. So very sad. [Can you tell it's dinnertime? My stomach is apparently running my brain.]

4) As a young girl, Kelly wanted to be a marine biologist. She jokes that she changed her mind after seeing Jaws. Tell us about a movie that really scared you.

Psycho did, of course, even though I was fully prepared and saw it for a psychology course in college. However, I get scared in almost every movie with intense scenes. For crying out loud, I had to be removed from Oliver! as a child because Mr. Bumble terrified me!! And it hasn't ever gotten much better. Ben Hur is another one that I remember having to leave the room during the chariot race because it's so intense.

5) Kelly is very involved with NASCAR, performing at pre-race concerts and appearing at their Champions' Breakfast. Are you a race fan?

I actually am. Not a crazy-loony fan, but I know most of the top-tier driver's names at least and a little about most of them. And Kyle Busch sucks.

6) Kelly is married to Brandon Blackstock, stepson of country superstar Reba McEntire. Are you a country music fan?

I like some country songs. Or maybe I like country-pop. Not so much country-western twang-a-doodle fests.

7) The Blackstocks have a baby girl, River Rose. In May, the family visited an Australian wildlife preserve and introduced her to koalas and kangaroos. Have you visited the zoo this year?

Nope. I haven't really gone to the zoo in probably 7 years or so. Technically, I go to a charity event at a zoo every fall but the zoo itself is incidental, just a location.

8) Upon learning that she was getting criticized on Twitter for being "big," Kelly responded, "Say what you will. It's a free world. It doesn't bother me." How about you? Do you worry what other people think of you?

I don't really worry about it. I know I'm overweight. I know I'm mouthy, bitchy, opinionated and silly. I don't really need to be told any of those things. I do get really fucking upset when I'm talked down/condescended to, or belittled because I'm a female. I'm not stupid. Don't ever think that, no matter how idiotic I act!

9) She bid over $200,000 and won a ring that had once belonged to Jane Austen. (She doesn't have the ring, though; the British government banned its sale because it's a historic artifact and Kelly's money was returned.) She also has a first edition of one of Austen's novels. Who is your all-time favorite writer?

Well, not Jane Austen! I haven't ever gotten more than 10 pages into any of her books, and believe me I have tried several. YAWN. I read a lot of mysteries: Sue Grafton, Sara Paretsky, J.A. Jance. Bill Bryson is good fun. Anne Lamott is amazingly good at finding the perfect words. I like Charles Dickens and Laura Ingalls Wilder and Kent Haruf and Matthew Arnold and Lawrence Block and Lewis Carroll and E.E. Cummings....

More from The Gerb

(Swiped from Amy)

Do you like TV talent shows?

Only in small servings when showing actual talent. In other words, I watch the good bits on YouTube that other people have culled out of the hours of crap.

How many hats do you own?

I own about a dozen, probably. Beast has me by a factor of 40-50. We have so-bloody-many hats....

Are you any good at pool?

Not really. I haven't played in eons, even though we have a good table in our basement. From my standpoint, it is useful primarily for folding laundry and hiding under during violent weather.

What's your favourite accent?

Italian. And West African.

In O's and X's, which do you normally pick?

I like X better than O. Deep-seated, childhood fear of circles.

Do you prefer blue or black inked pens?

I prefer the look of black ink. But really, either is fine, and I would rather use a pencil for most things.

Do you have popcorn with a movie?

We usually buy a bucket when we go see a movie at a theater, yes.

Do you have a piggy bank?

Yes. She's about 2 feet tall and hand-painted by Ellen. That is where all my foreign currency lives. I probably have collectible coins in there at this point: marks, rubles, pounds, etc.

What's the fastest you've ever travelled in a car?

I have a terrifying and shameful memory of going close to 100 in traffic in a car with friends on our way to ...something. We did a 30-minute drive in about 10 minutes. And endangered a good number of other people in the process.

Have you ever been hit on by someone of the same gender?

I have, perhaps, but am generally so very clueless about this sort of thing that it didn't become obvious until much later.

Have you ever flown first class?

Yes. Twice, both longish flights. I would do it overseas in a heartbeat. The mere thought of being in economy for a trip to, for instance, Australia, makes my skin crawl.

Who would you say are more attractive, English or Europeans?

Again, I have to remind Americans that the English don't see themselves as 'actual' Europeans, regardless of the fact that their island is part of the general continental area we all have decided to call Europe. To answer the question, the British people in general--as a race--are not all that attractive. I prefer ... other Europeans when it comes to looks.

How long has your longest ever phone call been?

Several hours, probably close to 4. This was well over 15 years ago. I haven't been on the phone for more than an hour in forever--unless we count telecons/webinars. I just don't like talking on the phone. Not my thing--maybe it's genetic? My sister hated the phone too.

Wednesday Hodgepodge

(Link in meme-roll)

1. June 23rd is National Pink Day. What's your favorite something pink?

I'm not a fan of pink. I guess I don't mind Pepto-Bismol when I need it, though.

2. What did you enjoy most about gym class when you were in school? How about the least?

I liked most everything about gym class as a really little kid, but as I got older the "girls don't like sports" mindset took over. I liked dodgeball ok and volleyball, but climbing the rope? Nuh-uh.

3. What memory is brought to mind by the smell of roses?

My mom loved roses. By the time she and Dad moved out of the house I grew up in, she must have had 40-50 bushes. When I went off to college, my dad built a new planter and she became a tester for Jackson & Perkins. She always had hybrids with scent. Those are hard to find anymore, especially at big box stores.

4. Do you prefer to read or write?

Reading. So much easier.

5. Sam Keen is quoted as saying, 'Deep summer is when laziness finds respectability.' Would you agree? Is laziness ever respectable? How will you be lazy this summer?

My WASPy background says laziness is always bad, but I'm about the laziest person around so...

6. The Florida Keys, Disney World, or a resort somewhere on the Gulf Coast...which Florida destination would you choose (and why) if the trip were today?

Do I have to go to Florida? Boo. OK, Gulf Coast it is.

7. What question do you hate to answer?

"What do you want for dinner?"

8. Insert your own random thought here.

I'm sitting here listening to my son rant and rave about work today. He's frustrated. I can relate. I was ranting about 10 hours ago in a similar fashion, to Beast.

Saturday 9

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

1) In the lyrics, Don McLean refers to having once been a paper boy. When you were a kid, what job or household chores did you do for spending money?

My family didn't work this way. Everyone did chores as requested/assigned because we were part of the household. This meant we always had to ask for money from Mom & Dad. Yes, it pretty much sucked. I started babysitting at 12 for other people's kids for money.

2) Them good old boys were drinking whiskey and rye. What's the last drink you ordered?

It's been months since I've had a drink of any kind. I would assume the last time I got one at a bar/restaurant was a Stoli tonic, lime twist. It's my usual. I may snag a glass of wine at a meeting this Tuesday night, but it always makes me overheat and turn bright red, and it takes about this much booze to get me tipsy anymore so maybe not.

3) He drove to the levee but it was dry. When is the last time it rained where you are?

Yesterday/overnight. It's "unseasonably cool" today and they can't decide what the weather is going to do for the weekend. Even within the same forecast online there are multiple answers.

4) When McLean was working on the song, he wrote the lyrics out in long hand. It took him 16 pages of lined notebook paper. Today it's a laptop/smartphone/tablet world, and Sam can't remember the last time she hand wrote anything longer than a sign on her front door that read, "Bell broken. Plz knock." What about you? What's the last thing you wrote with pen or pencil?

I take notes regularly at meetings which serves the benefit of keeping my mind occupied so I don't fall asleep AND keeps my mouth shut. I write, in pencil, in books daily at work. I write notes to people on scratch paper, take reserve requests and spell words for people to copy and write people's login information down.... I hand-write a lot. Not in big chunks anymore, but a lot. And still practice my penmanship. I'm such a throwback!

5) McLean's most recent CD is called "Addicted to Black," in reference to Olivia in The Twelfth Night. Quick! Without looking it up, name another character from Shakespeare.

Polonius.

6) Don was born in New Rochelle, New York, which was named one of The Best Walking Cities in America by the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA). What about your neighborhood? Is it easily walkable?

There are no sidewalks in my neighborhood, but also minimal traffic. We're one of those island subdivisions that you wouldn't drive through unless you're visiting someone or live here. And our house is at the very back, so there's literally NO reason to drive on our street unless you live on it or are visiting (or lost--quite likely). It's walkable. People here walk it, with and without dogs. I've walked it. But it doesn't go anywhere, just circles. On the other hand, we have two parks in the subdivision and people drive kids to them.  smh

7) In 1971, the year this song was popular, Walt Disney World officially opened. Have you ever been to DisneyLand or Disney World?

Been to both. Would like to return to Epcot and Animal Kingdom since the latter was brand-new when we were there and not quite finished, and the day we went to Epcot I felt very ill and we bailed at lunchtime after "Germany." Zero, or less, interest in seeing anything else.

8) Also in 1971, Mattel introduced Malibu Barbie. This doll was a "sun-loving California girl" and had a distinct tan. Have you ever used a tanning bed?

Well that's not where I thought this question would go! I had a Malibu Barbie as a child, but I will never, ever use a tanning bed. I have stark white northern European skin and have done enough damage to it with the, yknow, actual sun.

9) American Pie is also the name of a 1999 movie. Have you seen it?

Yuck. No.

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.

Sunday Stealing

(Link in meme-roll)
Funky Twenty-Five Meme

1. Most unflattering hairstyle you ever had? What made it so unflattering?

I am blessed with good hair, so any bad hairstyles have been because I'm done my own hack job. I also had a couple of bad perms way long time ago.

2. Favorite movie(s) that were made in the 90's?

I really liked the first Matrix movie. I liked The Lion King too. And of course Groundhog Day.

3. Do you rent movies? If so, from where?

Not very often, and mostly from my workplace when I do.

4. Do you like cookies better when they're just out of the oven or after they've cooled?

I like cookies best before they are baked.

5. Do you still talk to the person who gave you your first kiss?

Nope.

6. Did you go to pre-school? If so, what was the name of it?

I did. It's still in existence, in the same locale, looks exactly as it did 45 years ago. That is quite creepy.

7. How do you take your coffee?

Outside to pour on the ground. Yuck.

8. Do you like fuzzy things?

Uh...well. Hmm. I like animals.

9. Favorite kind of chocolate?

I prefer milk chocolate.

10. Are you more optimistic or pessimistic?

Realistic.

11. What about peopleofwalmart.com? Do you think the site is mean, funny, or both?

Yes. I don't visit it very often, and I certainly don't dress up to show, but I'm surely never going to be photographed and put on it either.

12. Do you like fat sandwiches? If so, what does your favorite one have on it?

I have no idea what this is.

13. One restaurant you'd never been to but would like to go to?

There are few restaurants in Italy and on Ydra that I haven't eaten at yet....

14. Last time you got a haircut? Do you need one?

Friday. All spiffy this weekend.

15. What's your favorite pattern for clothing (stripes, plaid, etc.)?

I'm not a huge fan of patterns, actually. I like plain, or big stripes if necessary.

16. What's your age backwards?

15.

17. When you see typos in a survey, do you correct them?

If they are awful, yes.

18. When was your last vacation? Did you go someplace special?

We were in Pasadena for the Tournament of Roses Parade and Rose Bowl game last December and January. It was wonderful.

19. What's your favorite kind of pancakes?

Plain with butter and syrup.

20. Do you like movies with computer graphics, like Avatar?

Not particularly. Well, I'm not agin 'em, but I prefer movies with actual, y'know, PLOT.

21. Do you know how to sew?

Yes.

22. Are you good at wrapping gifts?

If I take time, I am. Usually, I'm hurrying though so sometimes the paper gets a little weird.

23. Do you like flavored yogurt?

It's ok.

24. How old will you be in December of 2015?

Just over 52.

25. What's the age difference between you and your siblings?

My oldest sister is 20 years older than me, my brother is 10 years older. There were two other sisters between my brother and remaining sister.

Another from Amy

(Swiped from Amy)

What's your favourite biscuit to dunk?

I don't really dunk--I don't drink a lot of milk--and I don't like the crumbs falling off into the milk. Loss of perfectly good cookie!

Which would you rather have if you had to, a broken leg or a broken arm?

Arm. Left arm. I don't have time to figure out crutches.

Do you read a daily newspaper?

Nope. Not for years. I read the local headlines in my local paper in InoReader so I know generally what the latest gossip is.

Do you watch the news on TV?

I catch it on Today in the morning before I go to work. Sorta.

Have you ever had anything published?

Nope.

Do you believe in love at first sight?

Sure. I haven't really experienced it, I don't think, but "like at first sight" yes.

How many remote controls do you have in your house?

Oh jeez. Uh, three in this room. Probably at least that many downstairs. One upstairs in our room for my clock--which is totally silly.

Have you ever been in a hot tub or sauna?

Yes. Multiple times, on multiple vacations. We used to vacation with people who wouldn't even consider it a vacation without a hot tub on site.

Have you ever had chicken pox?

Yes, when I was 6, and a very bad case it was too. They hit in the middle of winter during a multi-day power outage.

Do you own a lava lamp?

No I do not. My brother had one when I was little. It was fascinating, but I don't have time for fascination for that sort of thing.

What is your one major weakness?

My mouth. I need to STFU more often. That seems to be my lesson for 2015.

What's been the best decision you've made in your life so far?

Having a kid. I didn't used to want one, and the whole labor thing was absolutely AWFUL--as bad as advertised on Little House on the Prairie--but I'm glad, so very very glad, to have Sparky in my life.

What's been the worst decision you've made in your life so far?

Staying at my first full-time job for as long as I did. On the other hand, had I bailed, I wouldn't be where I am now so...

What words do you always struggle to spell type correctly?

Anything with a 'q' in it. And "vacuum." And because I type them often, "video," "recording," "juvenile," "literature," and "fiction."

On a scale of 1-10, how happy would you say you are?

Right this second: 6. Generally, though I'm at 7 or 8.

On a scale of 1-10, how smart would you say you are?

Book-smart: 10. Actually, practically: 7.

On a scale of 1-10, how funny would you say you are?

I think I'm a 10. Apparently, I'm more often closer to 3.

On a scale of 1-10, how devious would you say you are?

Usually, 4, but there are stretches that are full of 10.

On a scale of 1-10, how awesome would you say you are?

Most of the time I think I'm a 7. But I have dark moments of 1-ness.

On a scale of 1-10, how devilish would you say you are?

Oh, really, that's probably a 2 or 3. At most.

On a scale of 1-10, how nice/caring would you say you are?

10. Except when I'm a stone bitch.

On a scale of 1-10, how bitchy would you say you are?

In quantity, probably 2. In intensity, probably closer to 12.

On a scale of 1-10, how polite would you say you are?

9. I'm Midwestern, yo.

On a scale of 1-10, how attractive would you say you are?

6 and falling.

If you could be any famous person who would you be and why?

I wouldn't want to be famous, so this isn't the easiest question. I'd like to be famous for doing something really boring but awesomely useful.

What's your favourite animal beginning with the letter A?

Albatross. "Bloody albatross!!" lol

What's your favourite item of clothing beginning with the letter B?

I'm rather partial to bras.

Just noticed that this is post #7205. Over 11 years, that works out to 655 posts each year. Yikes!!