TMI – Make Mine A Double !

Sean @ Just a Jeep Guy does it again. Here are  my responses.

1. Do you have a favorite alcoholic drink?

Bombay Sapphire Gin Martini straight up, very dry, with olives. I also like a good Frozen Golden Margarita, especially in the hot days of summer.

2. What kind of wine do you prefer?

Usually a Merlot, but again, in Summer I like a nice chilled glass of Chardonnay. 

3. Do you have a favorite beer?

I’m not really a big beer fan, especially not American brands. I tend to go for heavier robust stuff like Guinness when I have beer at all.

4. Can you taste the difference between vodkas?

Not so much anymore - tastebuds are shot. I can still determine the smooth ones from the rot-gut brands.

5. Are you a top shelf or rail kinda person?

If I’m having a Bombay Martini, then top shelf.  If I am having a mixed drink, like gin and tonic or rum and coke, no. It would be a waste of the good stuff to mix it with such things.

6. What was your most memorable (good, bad or embarrassing) drinking experience?

None that I care to remember anymore.  Most memorable times were in my previous life and that was 30 years worth of memories that are best forgotten now.

BONUS

Have you ever drunk dialed?

No! There is no one to call, anyway. 

More later.

*

TMI: WHAT'S IN A NAME? (Quoting Shakespeare)

1. Do you have a favorite flower?

Two, actually. The Carnation and the Peony.

2. Do you like your name (first)?

Love it.  Last name not so much. Growing up no one else I knew had my name, which can be a good or bad thing.

3. Does your name have a meaning?

Wayne
The name Wayne is a baby boy name.
English Meaning:
The name Wayne is an English baby name. In English the meaning of the name Wayne is: Craftsman; wagon-wright; wagon driver. Famous Bearer: U.S. Actor John Wayne.
SoulUrge Number: 6
People with this name have a deep inner desire for a stable, loving family or community, and a need to work with others and to be appreciated.
Expression Number: 5
People with this name are excited by change, adventure, and excitement. They are dynamic, visionary and versatile, able to make constructive use of freedom. They fight being restricted by rules and conventions. They tend to be optimistic, energetic, intelligent, and to make friends easily. They may be changeable, restless, untidy, and rebellious.

4. Do you have (a) nickname?

My Russian, Ukrainian, and Eastern European friends at work call me Waynechik. An endearing nickname, indeed.

5. Would you ever consider changing your name?

Not the first name, but I've certainly considered changing the last, many many times. It’s not a family name I’m very proud of.

6. What name have you heard that you hate?

I don’t hate any name. I mean, as long as it isn’t mine and someone has to live with it, it’s all we really have on this planet that no one can take away from us. I also make every attempt to pronounce a person’s name properly and not Americanize it, if possible. It’s the respectful thing to do, is all.

7. What name have you heard that you love?

I’m prone to enjoy simple names and not those that are contractions of the original - like Bill for William, etc. Names like Wayne, Scott, Ian, Wendy, Sean, Sara, and the like. That way people can’t fuck around with it too much.

8. How did you pick the name(s) of your pets?

I can have no pets nowadays, but mine were usually named after some trait or habit they had that was endearing to me. It seemed the right way to go since as soon as I’d choose a name and use it to call them, they understood and came immediately.

9. Do you name inanimate objects? Name some of them.

Nope. I do have a stuffed Lion given to me by an AIDS buddy that he named “Leo” does that count?

10. Did you name your penis or breasts? Has anyone else?

NOPE! I dislike the common usage of words like “junk” to describe a man’s genitals. I do not have junk between my legs and if I did, I wouldn't be very proud of the fact.

BONUS

In an episode of the Golden Girls, Dorothy had a night of sex that was sooooo good they named it. Tell me about night you had like that. 

Unfortunately, that has never happened to me.

And so it goes.

*

TMI – Snack Time

1. Do you prefer salty or sweet?

Salty is better than too sweet. Dark chocolate  is the best.

2. What was your favorite snack as a kid?

Fresh popped Pop Corn (no microwaves back then) and sour pickles.

3. What is your favorite snack now?

cheese and crackers & sour pickles

4. Healthy snacks are….?

The best and easiest to enjoy.

5. Milk and what kind of cookies? Do you dunk?

I don’t do cookies and milk. Never have. Ruins the individual flavors of each.

6. How do you eat Oreos?

I don’t eat Oreos. Only enjoy them when whipped into ice cream recipe.

7. What is your favorite movie snack?

Fresh popped Pop Corn

8. Cake or pie?

Both, but in small amounts. Dark Chocolate cake and fruit pies are the best. With a tea or coffee, the best.

9. Ready Whip or Cool Whip?

Cool whip smells like a petrol product, and ready whip is all air.  I prefer the work to make a good, proper whipped cream.

10. Potato Chips or Pretzels or Cheetos?

Oven baked chips and Sourdough Pretzels.

11. Favorite kind of ice-cream – flavor and brand?

Chocolate and any combination of chocolate mixed with nuts, fruit, etc., as in Moose Tracks or Rocky Road.  Double Chocolate with Walnuts and Brownies is always a  luxury.

12. Most unusual food you eat as a snack?

Fried Grits.

And so it goes.
*

June is Bustin’ Out in April

Wait, wait! That’s not how the song goes.

It’s downright hot today. Jumped up to about 80’ by midday and hasn’t begun to drop yet. Spent a low-key day today.  A little fatigue set in, maybe because of all the strenuous (?) activity yesterday.  

The sister called and talked about everything and nothing for almost an hour. She was especially chatty, gushing about the hospital and her medical team - she’ll be in the massive complex that is Touro Infirmary Hospital.  I think it was more for my benefit than hers;  her way of assuring me that she is in good hands. If she’s in Touro, I know that already. She goes in for prep on Tuesday afternoon, surgery scheduled for Wednesday morning.

Her oldest daughter will be staying with her through the surgery and at least part of the recovery. When she has to return to her home, there will be a visiting nurse staff with the sister 12 hours daily.  By that time, (hopefully) 12 hours should be more than enough to keep her comfortable.

My greatest fear, knowing my ornery sister as I do, is that she’ll push herself to do more, thinking that in some way that will make her heal faster. If it were up to me, I’d strap her down, slide a bedpan under her butt and leave her alone for those 3 hours of each off-shift until she got the message.  They don’t call me Nurse Diesel for nothing!

But, she will do whatever the hell she wants to do, and no one can change that. There will be a lot of yelling and screaming between her and my niece; I can almost hear it now.  Sigh!

Tomorrow afternoon I have an appointment with the surgeon who will schedule the PICC implant surgery. PICC = peripherally inserted central catheter.

(Sassy-Bear had one recently and not to be outdone, I just needed one, too. Although his was temporary, sad to say that mine will be pretty much permanent.)

I’m hoping the doctor can do the surgery before I return for Labs on Thursday and another transfusion day on Friday.  It will make life easier for the nurses - and me! No more poking, no more hit or miss with veins.  Just an always accessible port for any and all seasons and reasons. 

One more step to becoming a true Cyborg. There will be this plastic (or nylon) disc-shaped entry point on the upper left of my chest.  Skin will soon grow over it making it barely visible - and certainly less painful for all concerned. 

Anyway.

I’m frustrated by the fact that the black ink cartridge in the new inkjet printer is already spent.  In operation only three months and it’s empty.  Whether it is truly empty or dried up, there is no way of knowing. This will never do. I ordered a replacement as I also ordered the new laser printer which I will use for most everything from now on. 

From my experience, Inkjets are prone to many problems. First of all they are liquid, wet, and are applied while wet.   They can be runny. The prints are air-dried and can take longer depending on the environment. The freshly printed pages are moist to the touch.

Toner is a dry powder, goes on dry and is heated to seal the image to the paper.  Immediately and permanently sealed. Toner doesn’t dry out, age, or clump.  One cartridge assembly usually lasts me about 1.5 to 2 years - depending on usage.

The toner cartridge for the new printer is even less expensive than the one used in the older one that died. It will cost about $56.00.  The replacement inkjet cartridge will cost about $15.00.  $56.00 = 1.5 years, vs $15.00 = 3 months ($60.00 average per year).  It’s just simple math. Enough said.

I’ll keep the Inkjet printer for the scanner option, at least for now. I may chuck the whole affair when the other inks dry up and replace it with my flatbed scanner - which, had I known better, would have done in the first place and saved all this aggravation. Still, a lesson learned. While technology has moved forward, the business of inkjet printing has remained in the middle ages. Not worth the investment.  There, I said it…

Hey, Epson!  Sue me. 

OK! Here’s my first entry into the Sunday Selfie, or Selfie Sunday (whatever it’s called) meme. It was actually taken yesterday and the only reason for the jacket is the wind.  I know, it’s usually windy as the ocean, but I haven’t always been immune-compromised. So, it is what it is. 

Laugh all you want. I do that every morning in front of the mirror as I attempt to shave. There were always few pictures of myself (I was the photographer, after all) but there are even fewer now since the destruction from my previous life and the flooding by Katrina.

And so it goes.

*

TMI: PLEASE READ ME A STORY!

1. Describe your favorite place to cozy-up with a good book.

Bed, propped up with a few pillows with a tall glass of water on the night stand.

2. What do you read when you're on the toilet?

Nothing. 

3. Do you read when taking a bath?

Yes. Though that's a luxury seldom indulged in anymore.

4. If you can, do you read when at the gym?

No, too distracting, but not applicable anymore.

5. Do you still read newspapers and or magazines?

Yes, magazines in paper format, but newspapers mostly online. Regular reads include The Guardian, NY Times, BBC World, Mother Jones, TheNation, TPM, and our weekly local paper which has a well formatted online presence and is FREE!

6. What are your favorite genres to read?

Historical non-fiction, Sci-Fi, and whatever catches my attention. I am not a "best seller" reader, per se.

7. Do you read one book at a time or can you read several?

I immerse myself in one book at a time.  Give it all the attention it deserves. 

8. If you start a book, do you finish it no matter what?

Hell, no.  Life is too short. Poor writing, editing, crappy story lines that don't live up to the hype turn me off within the first few chapters. And typos drive me to distraction.  Too many and I'm done.

9. Did your parents read to you when you were growing up?

No.

10. Have you read to your kids/nephews/nieces?

Yes. Many years ago. They always received books from me as gifts at birthdays and Christmas.  Usually, a book they requested.  

11. How do you feel about reading books vs. using electronic devices? Have your feelings evolved from one or two years ago?

I love my Kindle Fire. No space for the real things.  Gave thousands of books to local libraries.  My library is stored in the iCloud or on the device, not bookshelves. Purchased and available, but not taking up valuable living space. It goes with me everywhere.  Eats up waiting times at doctor's appointments and while being transfused.  Takes my mind off of the depressing surroundings.  

BONUS  

When was the last time you looked at or read an adult magazine to satisfy yourself? When was the last time you even saw one? 

Long, long ago in a galaxy far, far away.

Note: as a child I read only what was required for school (no child should be required to read Dickens at 10-years of age, I had nightmares for years afterward), became a serious reader after high school when I moved to NYC and hung out with other avid readers.  There was no stopping me after that.  I had to go back and read all the classics I'd missed growing up - and it was great fun.

And so it goes.

*

TMI: THERE'S SOMETHING IN THE AIR

1. Do you have a sensitive nose?

Very.

2. Do you have allergies? 

Yes. Mostly seasonal.

3. Do you have a big nose? =}

Do you mean physically? No I do not have Cyrano's Nose. If you mean big as in nosey, gossipy, it's NO again.

4. Are there any smells that trigger memories for you?

Yes.  Plenty of them.

5. What are some of your favorite food aromas?

Bacon frying, Onions & garlic sautéed, fresh chopped cilantro, BarBQ, bread baking, freshly ground coffee. Popping Popcorn.

6. What are some of your favorite smells in nature?

Many flowers (peonies, carnations, roses), the salt air of the ocean, fresh cut grass, tilled soil. Old books.

7. Do you use air fresheners?

No. Open windows whenever possible does the trick. Occasionally I like a bit of incense, but not often. 

8. Do you like scented candles?

Only in Winter when home is shut, otherwise, no. I love candlelight, but not the additional scents, which usually overpower the natural air in the room.

9. Which food smells make you want to hurl?

I can't think of that ever happening to me.

10. What is the absolute worst smell for you?

Death. Rotting flesh.

BONUS

What smells or aromas turn you on?

At some point or other, all favorites listed above. 

And so it goes.

* 

TMI - CALL ME

Another set of questions posed by Sean (Just a Jeep Guy) to share a little more info about ourselves, and our lives. This week's topic:  Telephones in all manner, shape, and form.

1. Do you still have a land line? 

Yes.  It's cheap enough ($10. monthly) and I trust it in emergencies more than a cell phone.

2. Which cell phone do you use and why?

iPhone4 - because it was free. My previous smartphone died a slow death and my carrier was recently able to offer Apple products, so I jumped on the offer. Free phone, shipping, activation and $5.00 off monthly fee.

3. Which provider do you use? Is there really a difference?

Virgin Mobile.  (Carrier is Sprint.) Yes, there's a big difference for me. Price and options are perfect for my needs and no 2-year contract.

4. If you call someone and they don't pick up, do you leave a message?

Yes. Especially if the call is important.

5. When you have a missed call (with no message), do you call the person back?

No, unless I recognize the number. "Private Caller" incoming calls go directly to voicemail - if you don't want me to know who you are, I don't want to talk to you.

6. Do you txt willingly or reluctantly? How are your skills?

Willingly.  I like texting. Used a lot at work. My skills are not great, but I do voice texting for more complicated messages.

7. Has your cell replaced your camera? 

Nope, and it probably never will.  

8. Selfies....

I believe I've done one. I enjoy being in photos with others. Self photos are not my thing. I know what I look like and see myself daily - in the mirror while brushing teeth or shaving.

9. How many apps do you have? Which is your favorite and why? I'm not sure what that means. The phone came with many apps. I've added 3 of my own, and they were free.  Google Earth is probably the fave.

0. What would life be like with no cell/smart phone for one month?

I'd prefer life completely without the cellphone. I like privacy. Don't like everyone knowing where I am every minute of the day. I don't answer calls or texts while driving, dining, or even shopping.  Dangerous and rude. That said, with current health and medical issues, I'm glad I have it for emergencies.

BONUS

How much has your cell phone become a part of your sex life? Sexting, hookup apps, selfies, video, GPS, more?

Haahahahahahahahahahahahaha!  That's funny...

And so it goes.

*

TMI War on Christmas 2013

Don't know where this began, I've read it at a few of my recent stops, but I nicked it from Peter's (Tippin' The Scales) place.
(Update: Sean at (Just a Jeep Guy) is responsible for these fun, insightful, prying questions. I should have known. Thanks, Sean. And Happy, Merry - oh fuckit, Cheers!)

1. Which religion or faith do you belong to, if any?   I was baptized Roman Catholic at 2 weeks of age.  I had no choice in the ritual. Left all church in my teens, hooked up with the Episcopal Church briefly and left all religion behind now.    

2. What is your opinion of Merry Christmas vs. Happy Holidays?
I use both interchangeably. There are many holidays celebrated in a short time, it's unfair to consider one over an other.  Happy Holidays seems to cover them all. I have no preference.

3. Holiday music on the radio? When and how much?
PDQ Bach has always been a regular in my house. His NYC concerts were performed every year at this time at Carnegie Hall, or Avery Fisher Hall.  I also have a few fave CDs and listen a bit to Pandora.  A Little goes a long way.

4. When do you start decorating? Do you?
I don't decorate anymore. Friend Ron (Retired in Delaware) does a great job decorating his home. Lovely and warm.  In my previous life there was a huge tree that went up December 1 and came down on King's Day (Epiphany), January 6. 

5. White lights or multi colored?
When I was young it was colored twinkling bulbs and single color ornaments. As I got older, I preferred the clean, crisp look of clear bulbs and various colored ornaments. 

6. Gift cards, cash or actually shopped-for presents?
None, really. A surprise gift is always nice, but not expected or sought after. There is nothing that I want, or need. 

7. Christmas cards and or family update letters are…                                        Thoughtful.  Used to send over 100 cards in my previous life.  Not now.   Not working, and health issues means low funds.                          

8. Snow is…
Nice, if you're not forced into it for any reason. I especially love snow on Christmas and wish it gone by boxing day.

9. Have you been a good little boy or girl this year?
Define "good" please.

10. RAPID FIRE FAVORITES:
a. Food – Not anymore. The same old foods bore me to death these days. If I could, I'd love to roast a goose for Christmas, but it would be too much for just one person. And I'm low on energy, anyway. 

b. Dessert – Anything with dark chocolate

c. Drink – Eggnog, Wine, and maybe a Guinness.

d. Holiday movie – It's a Wonderful Life. White Christmas, A Christmas Carol (1951, with Alastair Sim)        

e. Holiday music – See # 3 above                                          

f. Holiday tradition – Used to be ice skating in Rockefeller Center. None anymore.

BONUS: Christmas sex:

What have you done under the mistletoe?
Kissed

Have you caught daddy kissing Santa Clause?
No.

Have you done it a santa suit?
No.

Did you come down the chimney?
If that's what it's called these days. ;-)

Just how merry have you made Santa’s helpers?
Worked at Macy's flagship store one Christmas, all helpers and elves had a jolly good time.  If you get my drift.

There.  That was painless.

And so it goes.

*

TMI - Kiss The Cook

KISS THE COOK!

TMI questions posed by Sean (Just a Jeep Guy) for this week. My responses are below.

1. How good of a cook are you?

I've been cooking most of my life. A Pretty good cook, I'd say.  I haven't killed anyone as far as I know. I still enjoy it, but it was more satisfying when I was cooking for 2 or more.

2. Who taught you how to cook? 

First teacher was my grandfather.  He convinced me that I'd never go hungry if I knew my way around a few pots and pans and could prepare 2 or 3 dishes well. I took it from there. Experimentation is fun.

3. Who does the cooking in your home?

Me.  I live alone.  But when I prepare a huge pot of something I containerize and share it with others who may enjoy it, too.

4. Do you cook more or eat out more?

Cook more.  About 99% of the time. I like dining out if there's a favorite dish I can't make (or too much work to make) myself. If mine is better, why chance a bad experience?

5. Are you more of a cook or dessert maker?

I'm not a big dessert fan. I may indulge when dining out, but usually share something with my dining partner - and it's usually something they are dying to have.  Give me a chunk of high-cocoa content dark chocolate and I'm in heaven. That is my occasional special treat.

6. What was your worst/funniest cooking moment? 

Long story - very short. The then lover asked that I make dinner for 8 only to be told while cooking I wasn't one of them. He was in the closet, don'tcha know. My job was to cook and leave. When I learned this, three large pans of thick stuffed pork chops ended up on lawn. I left him to explain the situation as he saw fit, fend for himself, and I went out to dinner alone.  Need I mention this episode was the beginning of the end? I guess not.

7. What's your best dish?

It's been so long since I cooked for anyone other than myself. I have lots of favorites depending on my mood at the time. I especially love what I call Kitchen Sink salads. Alas, due to present health conditions fresh/raw fruits and vegetables are not allowed.  I get cravings.  Y'all get cravings?

8. Is revenge a dish best served cold? 

Absolutely, if at all. Personally, I don't believe in revenge. Negative use of time and energy.  Karma may be slow, but it's a real bitch when it's pay-back time.

9. Is the best way to a man's heart truly through his stomach?  

Not mine.

BONUS

Have you made whoopee in the kitchen? Which foods have you used to spice up your love life?

Yes. Enuf said.  And what's often said about Chocolate and Oysters (no, not together, silly!) is so true. 

Justin Wilson - Cajun Chef

Now I'm hungry.

More later.

*

That Blogger Meme

Dr. Spo (the dear) created this meme.  For what they are worth, here are my thoughts on the subject.

From the desk (mind?) of Ur-Spo:

What you like most about being a blogger?

Writing about what interests me and impacts my life in some way. Sharing informational tidbits about our world. Receiving comments, suggestions from readers. Blogging has replaced journaling for me. 

How many bloggers have you met?

About 20 formally at the 2013 Bloggerpalooza, and 4 others who dined at the restaurant, but were too shy to introduce themselves. No way to recognize them since their profiles don't contain photos of themselves 

Do you ever go back and read your old entries?

Only if I am writing an update on a previous post and then only as a hot link to give the reader background info.

Do you share your job skills here?

I don't know about "job skills" per se, having experience in many disparate fields led me to the most recent position. (Life can do that to you.) I always loved working with the public and the restaurant gig was the best of the lot.

Have you changed your views about anything thanks to blogging?

Yes. Reading topics from the perspective of others has been an enlightening experience.  Rewarding, too. Most blogs I read while expressing an opinion, tend to be open-minded, willing to accept new ideas - other opinions.  I like that. 

Do your coworkers know about your blog?

Yes, but most aren't interested in the blog world. They're more into gossip, FaceBook and Twitter. Gossip isn't my thing.

What advice would you give for successful blogging?

I'm not sure "successful" is the right word. I don't make money from blogging - G*d knows, I'd starve, I'm not a writer - and I ruffle some feathers from time to time, but my opinions are my own and, as far as I know, no one has ever been physically injured by reading this space.

What is your opinion of aardvarks?

I love them. "Does Anybody Here Have an Aarkvark?" If you remember that song, you will also remember "WONDERAMA", in which case, enough said.

Do you publish everything you write ?

Much of what I write is on the spur of the moment.  Blood boiling in anger, disbelief, wonder, or happiness whirling around in my brain. I tend to write quickly, occasionally going back to correct and smooth out the rough places.  Usually re-read the piece once all the way through, then publish or chuck it.  I tend to write the way I talk. I write for me, anyway.

If you could make ‘three rules’ for blogging, what would they be?

1# All readers should leave a comment - agree, disagree, add an insight, or just to say "HI". (Note: I've had folks "follow" then "un-follow" and then "follow" me again. Jeez, comment, or make up your mind.)

2# Bloggers ought to be gentle with one another, supportive. Encouraging. It's a rough world out there and we all deal with it in our own, best way.

3# (I agree with Spo on this one) If a blog ‘goes private’ this should also be announced.  I dislike showing up suddenly to a ‘locked door  without being told ahead of time or at least offered an invite to come in.

Do people help you write your blog?

No.  Can't you tell? 

Who are your blogger super-heroes?

I read various blogs for various reasons. The personal blogs of those I met at Bloggerpalooza - and others; political blogs, news & Information blogs, LGBT blogs, humor blogs, history and science blogs. 

Final question (if you dare!) : Have you slept with any of your fellow bloggers?

No, but there are one or two that I'd like to snuggle with.  I mean, they're married. I am a Southern gentleman, after all.

Wanna buy a bridge?

And so it goes.

Attack of the Zamioculcas!

If anyone reading this remembers the weekly "5 on the 5th" meme suggested by Stephen Chapman a few years back, where the challenge was to post 5 pictures taken during the first 5 days of the month on a topic suggested by Stephen.

You may, or may not remember this plant. It was the subject for one of those exercises. It was a much younger, smaller plant and the suggested subject that month was "NEW" (if you click the link you can see what the plant looked like only 2 years ago. I photo-documented the growth of new branches/leaves for the world to see.

It was very small - in a 6 inch pot when I purchased it for the new apartment in 2010.  It immediately liked the new environment and began to grow nicely.

Well, today that plant has grown to the point that it's taking over my bedroom. (See the image above and click to embiggen.) And since I am Neutropenic, I am not suppose to have live indoor house plants for health reasons.  I just can't bring myself to throw it away.  It is a beauty and as long as it remains happy and productive, it has a place in my home. It has been transplanted twice since I've had it.  It may need to be so again in the near future.  Yes, I'll protect myself by wearing the damned mask and sporting hospital gloves.

Anyhoo, I took this shot this morning having noticed the extreme growth for the first time. (Hey! I've been sick for a while, OK?) Just look at the size of the thing! Oh, and there are new shoots popping through the soil in the center even in the cooler weather.

And so it goes.
*

TMI - RANDOMNESS

TMI - Randomness

1: Could you go the rest of your life without smoking a cigarette?

No problem.

2: Are you single/taken/heartbroken/confused?

Single.

3: What if I told you that you were handsome/pretty?

I would break your dark glasses & your cane, and shoot your dog! Then I'd thank you.

4: Ever been told “it’s not you, it’s me”?

No.  It's always been ME.

5: Are you interested in anyone right now?

Nope.

6: What are you looking forward to in the next week?

Waking up every morning.

7: Do you want to be single/married/in a relationship?

After 30 years with one person it was quite an adjustment to suddenly be single. Now I wouldn't trade it for anything.

8: Have you pretended to like someone?

No. If I dislike someone it seems every pore in my body exudes that information. It's hard to hide.

9: Have you ever told somebody you loved them and not actually meant it?

I assume this is a reference to Romantic Love. No. I don't think there could ever be a valid reason for such cruelty.

BONUS QUESTION?

I don't remember.

Thanks to Sean at Just a Jeep Guy.

And so it goes.

*

Music Makes People Come Together

Now you know I am bored to tears.  I wish I could be out and about and among the living, but for now that's not an option. 

I have not done many of these before (although I enjoy reading the answers given by others) because I am usually too busy with work but, I have all this free time on my hands, so brace yourselves.

MUSIC MAKES THE PEOPLE COME TOGETHER 

1. How often and where do you listen to music?When I'm in the car, at the restaurant (we have Sirius there) but the contemporary stations play the same crap over and over, so depending on the customers, we'll put on House, Oldies, or Latino. It is a Mexican restaurant, after all.  At home there is always something playing in the background as I cook, clean, or just for company.

2. When was the last time you bought music in CD format?About 2 years ago. I bought a PUPPINI SISTERS Disc. 

3. Do you buy complete albums or just a song at a time? Is this different now because of iTunes? I haven't bought music in a long time. I have an iTunes acct., but haven't used it yet.

4. From who do you purchase your digital music?
See above. I am switching to Mac, and may begin collecting again. I have transferred a few fave CDs to the now dead PC and uploaded them to the iPod, KIndle and phone, but that's it for now

5. Do you listen to satellite or internet radio? How about Podcasts?
I have a few selected channels on Pandora and listen when I am in the mood. There is only one Podcast I listen to on a weekly basis. 

6. What are your favorite kinds of music?
Theatre music, pop, Big Bands of the 30s & 40s, jazz, classical; pretty much anything except rap and hip-hop. 

7. Today's music_____!
There are few new artists I can listen to, mostly because the storytelling (if any) and lyrics turn me off. (i.e. Katy Perry - "Do you ever feel like a plastic bag?")  I mean, WTF?

8. What music is you guilty pleasure?
No guilt, only pleasure. Depending on mood, either Mahler (sends my spirit

soaring) or The Pet Shop Boys (when in a happy dancing mood), if that makes sense. 

9. Have you heard a song recently that reminds you of someone?
No, fortunately I don't know anyone who feels like a plastic bag. Or any other  bag, for that matter.

BONUS   

Do you play music to set the mood? 
No, my mood sets the tone for the music to enhance it. 

Once it's set, what do you play to keep the action moving?
I've never played music while indulging in bedroom calisthenics. It just gets in the way and can be very distracting. 

Well, there you have it. BTW, there is a storm raging outside right now and I am playing John Pizzarelli to lighten the dreary atmosphere of the day. Works for me.

Thanks Sean, I think.  Just a Jeep Guy!

And so it goes.

*

This Isn't That Hard

And they are pet peeves of mine.  I cringe especially when the wrong word is used in a sentence by a teacher or professional of any kind.  It really isn't that hard, people.  Just laziness, I guess.

And so it goes.
*

One Hundred Bites

Some other bloggers I read have already shared, as usual I am late to the party. I figured since I will be meeting a few of them soon, I may as well take the plunge. So, here goes.

1. Are you young at heart, or an old soul? I was told I was an old soul at age10 years.

2. What makes someone a best friend? Someone who doesn't judge, and is always there, even if not in person.

3. What Christmas (or Hanukkah) present do you remember the most? None.

4. Tell me about a movie/song/TV show/play/book that has changed your life. Lord of the Rings Trilogy.

5. Name one physical feature that you like about yourself, and one you dislike. Like: Maybe my eyes. Dislike: Most everything else.

6. Would you like to reconnect with any friends you’ve lost contact with? Many don't seem to be interested in connecting anymore.

7. What’s more important in a relationship: physical attraction or emotional connection? Emotional connection.

8. Name a movie that you knew would be terrible just from reading the title. "Throw Mama From the Train."

9. What holiday do you most look forward to? None, anymore.  I work all holidays.

10. How is the relationship between you and your parents? Horrible, and they're both dead.

11. You’ve got the TV on, but you’re not really watching. What channel is the TV on? Don't have TV service at the moment. So, if the TV is on, I am likely watching a DVD.

12. Name a song that never fails to make you happy. "Hey, Old Friend" by Sondheim.

13. You know at least one person named Michael. Tell me about him. Mike is a douche nozzle. Kicked me out of his house and refused to return my rent money. That was 6 years ago when my life was falling apart.

14. Have you ever read the “Missed Connections” on Craigslist? Have you ever posted one, or wanted to? Nope.  I know nothing about Craigslist.

15. If you could pick anywhere to live the rest of your life, where would it be? Holland or England.  I love both places.

16. Can money buy happiness? Hell yes!  I've been living hand-to-mouth for the past 6 years and it ain't no fun.

17. Do you drink? Smoke? Do drugs? Why, or why not? I like a good martini, or Manhattan. Wine and, a good cold beer once in a while. Quit smoking 35 years ago.  Pot would be nice, but unaffordable

18. Is there anyone close to you that you know you can’t trust? You don’t have to give names. There is no one in my life now that I could trust completely.

19. Where was your favorite place to go when you were a little kid? I spent all my free time in Lake Pontchartrain - a block from my home.

20. Have you ever spent a night in the hospital? Yes.  Hated it.

21. Do you enjoy being with only one or two friends, or with a large group of people? Small groups for me.

22. Do you like the type of music your parents listen to? Do your parents like the type of music you listen to? Yes.  Even during the early days of Rock and Roll, I always found time for Sinatra, Ella, Armstrong, etc.

23. Have you ever been bullied? Have you ever bullied anyone else? Yes. And, No.

24. If you could only eat one thing for the rest of your life, what would it be? One item, or one dish? If it's one dish it would be salad.

25. If your partner wanted to wait until marriage before having sex, would you stay in that relationship? Yes, sex has never been a big deal in my life. I watched all my old friends die of AIDS. I guess someone had to be around to care and keep their memories alive.

26. Do you believe in a god? Not so sure anymore.

27. Of all the social networks in the world, why use Twitter? I don't Twitter.

28. What’s your favorite hashtag to track? Don't even know what they are.

29. Would you call yourself/your family “middle class?” Lower middle class, back then.

30. Name a TV series you didn’t enjoy until after it ended. None

31. Have you ever bought a product from an infomercial? No.

32. If you could give up your car and never have to drive again, would you? I would have years ago, and could since I live in town, but at my age I need a car.

33. If you go back to one point in time to give advice to yourself, when would you go and what would you say? I'd go back to 1975 and warn myself that this relationship will end badly and be left with nothing.

34. What’s your “quirkiest” habit? Put on dance music and dance around the living room.

35. What is “normal?” Are you normal? Normal? Who would want to be normal. No fun in that.

36. Someone close to you is dying. You have the choice to let this person live for 10 more years, but if you do, you cause the death of 10 strangers. You don’t have to see them die. Do you take the offer? No. 

37. What is one thing you could never forgive? Deceit and character assassination. It happened between 2006-2007 and it's good that the person has never asked for forgiveness.

38. Would you rather be in a relationship after the honeymoon period ends, or be single? Single.  I think it's too late for a relationship.

39. Is it possible for guys and girls to be just friends? Why not? Some guys have a hard time befriending lesbians.  Not me.

40. Where do you and your friends go to hang out? No friends to hang out with.

41. Write the first sentence of your obituary. I'll leave that to anyone who cares.

42. What is the best TV theme song ever? I Love Lucy.

43. When you were young, what would you dream you would be when you grew up? A film maker and photographer.

44. When you’re alone in your own home, do you walk around naked? Sometimes.

45. What gets you out of bed in the morning? It's a new day and I am alive to experience it.

46. Do you want to have more friends than you have right now? That's easy, yes.

47. What part of the past year sticks out in your mind? Passing a kidney stone on my birthday.  No fun, that.

48. You win a scratch-off lottery game that gives you $2000 a week (after taxes) for the rest of your life. Do you keep your job? Maybe for a while, but I'd buy a travel camper and hit the road taking pictures of daily life.

49. Could you be in a long-distance relationship? If you’re in one, what makes yours work? Not worth the anguish and tears.

50. What’s the best route to your heart? That route is closed to all traffic.

51. Have you ever met someone through the internet, then met them in real life? Not that I know of, though I look forward to the blogger weekend later this month.

52. What is your favorite sport? None really, but I've grown to admire Soccer these days.

53. What has been troubling you lately? Fractured spine and arthritis in my hands.  Constant pain.

54. Did you enjoy your high school prom? Didn't attend. Took a Greyhound to NYC, instead.  High school was a nightmare for me.

55. What do you use more often: your intuition or logical reasoning? I go with my gut on just about everything. 

56. Do you know what makes you happy? Right now my job makes me happy and there is always music.

57. Tell me about the last book you read. "Tempest at Dawn" by James D. Best.  Kindle version.  Loved it.

58. What is the nicest compliment you’ve ever been given? "You're a good person, don't forget that." 
       
59. Who was your first crush? A neighbor, we used to play in the woods behind my house (and fool around) and spent a lot of time in the lake.  He moved away when I was 12.

60. Do you believe that there is life on other planets? Yes, I do. It's arrogant to think that humans are the only intelligent beings.

61. Predict what your life will look like a year from now. I can't predict what my life will be like tomorrow.

62. Often, people will ask how your last relationship ended. I want to know how it began. I was 28, he was 26. He swept me off my feet and we made a life together for 30 years.  

63. Where is your favorite place to go out and eat? The local Outback Steakhouse is owned by the nicest people, Dos Locos, (yes, I love to dine where I work) The Pig & Fish, and Henlopen City Oyster House.

64. What is something you want to change about your current situation? I’d like a vacation, a cruise/tour of Alaska.

65. Early bird or night owl? Early bird.  Always have been.  Love to watch the sun rise over the ocean.

66. Are there any childhood possessions you still hold on to? No, they were all lost in Hurricanes.

67. Give me an unpopular opinion you have. I think churches should be forced to pay taxes if they want to play politics.

68. What was the last song that was stuck in your head? "Try" by Pink. It's haunting and I like her passion.

69. Where do you live? Be as general or specific as you want. Rehoboth Beach, in lower-slower Delaware.

70. Do you believe in giving kids medals and trophies for participation? Depends on the activity. 

71. What was the longest car ride you’ve ever taken? New York to New Orleans.

72. Have you ever taken part in a protest? Yes, many.

73. Would you ever use an online dating service? No.

74. What is your ethnic heritage? French and Italian.

75. Describe a person that inspires you. No one these days.

76. If you earn minimum wage doing what you love, would you? Couldn't.  I make a little more than minimum and can get by, but I also love my job. 

77. Do you believe in luck? That word is used to describe so many happenings. Maybe.

78. Describe the last time you were very angry at someone. I count to 10 often these days.  There are just so many stupid people anymore.

79. Do you want to live until you’re 100? Not if my life remains as it is. Struggling and living to work rather than working to live, isn't much of a life.

80. Do people change? If so, how do you keep a relationship together when both of you start to change? Yes, most people change.  I did, but my Ex wanted to remain a 30-something. 

81. Have you ever risked a friendship by telling someone you liked them? Where is the risk?

82. Would you rather be alone doing something you enjoy, or doing something you don’t like with your best friends? Doing something I enjoy.  Best friends would know what you like and dislike. Life is too short to do things you don't like.

83. Do you practice what you preach? I do, indeed. Or at least try damned hard.

84. If you take precautions to stay safe, do you ultimately act more recklessly? No, I don't go into strange neighborhoods at night and I am a safe driver.

85. What do you value more in a significant other: Attractiveness or intelligence? Intelligence and a sense of humor.

86. Are you hard-headed? Of course.

87. Have you ever laughed uncontrollably when it was socially inappropriate? Yes, when I thought the situation funny enough.

88. When have you felt most alive? Walking or biking in the sunshine, walking the beach and dancing, oh yes, dancing.

89. Would you prefer to live? A city? The suburbs? The countryside? The mountains? The Beach!

90. Do you often skip breakfast? Sometimes.

91. How do you know what true love is? I did once. Or so I thought

92. Would you want to know the exact date and time you were going to die? No!  I think I'll instinctively know.

93. Where is “home” for you? Rehoboth Beach or New Orleans.

94. What song best describes your life right now? The one mentioned above.  "Try"

95. Do you want to be perfect? No, but I have tried to be a few times in my younger days. Failed!

96. What have you never tried, but would really like to someday? At my age I've tried pretty much everything I've had in mind.

97. How do you express your creativity? This blog, my photography and cooking.

98. Describe your neighborhood. Quiet, small beach bungalows, narrow streets with no sidewalks, and one apartment building.  Mine!

99. Name something you only liked because it was popular. I don't think I ever did that.  Hell, I hated the early Beatles, only found their talent beginning with Rubber Soul & Revolver.

100. Give me the story of your life in six words. I lived. I loved. I laughed. The End!!!

And so it goes.
*

Day Dark and Drear & Cheerful Blog Posts

A steady rainfall since yesterday and all plans for the days off have washed away, so to say. Not up to doing chores on my to-do list, so I've read a bit, listened to music, cooked up a few artichokes for salad, and settled down to enjoy blogs that I read pretty regularly.  I may not comment on particular posts, but I enjoy the reads nonetheless.

Peter is home from hospital and on the mend following successful surgery. Snoopy Happy Dance!

Mark and his spouse are having issues over electric heaters.  Don't ask. Funny, though.

Ron is recovering from the demon disease spreading throughout the country, and having visited his past, is enthralled by the discovery of an actor he knew nothing about. We learn something new every day, right?

Anne Marie is dancing her tits off at her Saturday Night Dance Party. Making me feel very old, too.

John presents various opinions in the "heated debate" over Jodie Foster's GG speech. Yawn.

Urspo is weighing the potential benefits of a bit of booze deprivation before vacation. Made me giggle, too.

Cubby, in true gay fashion, is cooking up some fab appetizers for a work potluck. After all, what is life without bacon?

Jeep Guy continues his weekly TMI questionnaire with "WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL BETTER?" Where does he come up with these things???

3rdnlong is pissed about the safety seals on jars and bottles that are more trouble to remove than a plaster cast. I know his pain.

I hope to meet a few of these bloggers in March when Ron hosts a Meet-Up dinner party.  He's really good at organizing these events. His family reunions are legendary, joyful events.

And so, I continue to watch (and listen to) the rain fall, being grateful for cheerful posts, and that it isn't cold enough to turn that rain to snow.

Plan to view a couple of documentaries after supper this evening presented by handsome historian Michael Wood of the BBC. For some reason, I think I met him back in the 70s in NYC at the Hayden Planetarium, but memories play tricks at times, don't they.  He looks awfully familiar to me.

Still holding out hope that I may have the good fortune to join a few customers/friends on a 10-day Caribbean cruise in March.  The cruise line told me that I may be allowed a stateroom alone, if I pay 1.5 of the usual 2-person occupancy rate.  This may be a way to make it happen. The only kink is that this rate may not be available if the cruise is close to being sold out.  It is what it is and if it's going to happen, it will happen.

Update that made my day:  Just received a phone call from a chap at Nielsen's - the TV ratings company.  Right out of the box there was dead silence as I answered the first questions on his survey:  Q. What sort of TV service do you subscribe to?  A.  I don't subscribe to any TV service. (Long pause) Q. Do you use an indoor antenna? A. No. I don't watch Television. (Very long pause) "Um, thank you for your time."  Sometimes answering the land line can be so rewarding.  Just sayin'.

Note: I didn't link to the blogs above, but if you want them, I'll take care of it.  Just let me know in comments.

And so it goes.

*

A Very Spo Meme

Spo, (the dear) offered up the following meme and since for some reason, I cannot leave a comment at his site - something about my password being incorrect - I thought I'd post my answers here, instead.  Here goes:

An evening with friends …… is jolly good fun !  (fill in the blank)
Tea, wine, or champagne?  - All three, plus a good Gin.
How left handed are you? - so much so that I have trouble securing cufflink to the left sleeve.
The loudest item of clothing I have …………. my very own Spo shirt.  Butterflies!
The Best Friend: who is s/he? - No one anymore.
I’d rather eat rats in Tewkesbury than…… Lima Beans or Okra in New Orleans

How many of these have you done?:

1. Been to an opera - Yes. A few times at the NY Met.

2. Read a novel by Dickens - Yes, quite a few.

3. Drank Bourbon - Yes. Maker's Mark & Wild Turkey. No rubbish!

4. Been to Key West - No, but would love to visit someday.

5. Visited The Stratford Festival of Canada - No.

6. Spiders give you the heebie-jeebies. - Yes.  And many insects, too.

7. Been to Michigan - Yes.  Once. Many years ago.

8. Rolled down a grass hill. - Yes. Well, not a hill exactly, it was a levee on the Mississippi River. Again, many years ago.

9. Ate Synder Pretzels - Yes. They're the Best!

10. Used the word ‘rubbish” in the past 30 days. - Yes.  I use "rubbish" in polite company in place of "bullsh*t" which is my fave.

11. Worn a bow tie - Yes.  Only with my tuxedo, though.

12. Have a set of Viking horns - No.  Sadly, no.

Well, there you have it. Now you know more trivial bullsh*t about me.

And so it goes.
*

Barack Obama and McKayla Maroney: not impressed

Absolutely Priceless.  I love this.
From the Guardian:

President imitates gymnast's much-mimicked 'not impressed' look during US Olympic team's visit to the White House.

A comment on the progress of vital fiscal cliff talks in Washington? His verdict of Donald Trump's latest Twitter rant against him? A reaction to Mitt Romney's accusations that he won the presidential election by handing out gifts to minorities and the young?
Whatever the reason, Barack Obama clearly isn't impressed if the latest photo handout from the White House is to be taken at face value.
Captured when the 2012 US Olympics gymnastic team stopped by at the White House earlier this week, Obama took time out to recreate one of the enduring images of the Games – McKayla Maroney's impression of someone sucking a lemon while simultaneously chewing a wasp after she missed out on gold in the vault.
The "not-impressed" look has been much mimicked since, but Obama's mug-pulling in the White House – accompanied by Maroney – has given the meme new life.

I love the playfulness of this picture and the humor behind the shot. I love my president.  He is far from perfect, but he's on the right track.  Keep it goin' Mr. President.

And so it goes.
*

The 4 Things Meme

Maybe I'm too old for these things.  I found it difficult to provide answers to some of the questions. Anyway, borrowed from Ur-Spo  So, here it is:

4 Things I need to spend more time on in my life:
1. Living
2. Physical activity
3. Long hot baths
4. Being a better listener

4 Things I need to spend less time on in my life:
1. Finances
2. Worrying about understanding SS and Medicare
3. Listening to stories from my previous life
4. Correcting inaccuracies in those stories.

4 Things I wish I could spend more time on in my life:
1. Photography
2. Seeing old and new friends spread far and wide
3. Traveling
4. Myself

4 Things I love about myself:
1. My love of musical theatre
2. My gut instincts
3. My warped sense of humor
4. My love of music

4 Things I hate about myself:
1. Nothing
2. I don't hate
3. Other people seem to do that for me
4.  It's a waste of time

4 Things I love that I used to hate:
1. Anchovies
2. Jicama
3. Living alone
4.  Having my picture taken

4 Things I hate that I used to love:
1. Fresh corn on the cob
2. Television
3. Airports
4. Desserts after supper.

4 Things towards which I look forward:
1. A vacation/holiday
2. Visiting my older sister before she dies.
3. A cruise/tour to Alaska
4. Working to live, not living to work

4 Things I dread:
1. Assisted living
2. Being incapacitated, unable to communicate
3. Not having a love in my life
4. Medicare and Social Security

4 Things I once believed in but no longer do:
1. Heaven
2. Hell
3. Bad things happen to good people
4. G*d gives you only what *he* knows you can handle

4 Things I now believe that I didn’t use to believe:
1. Myself
2. Karma
3. Intuition
4. Treating mean people with kindness pisses them off

4 Things I love to do despite being bad at it :
1. Sing
2. Write
3. Grow things
4. Sleep late.

4 Things I hate to do but I do anyway:
1. Scrub floors
2. Do-it-yourself stuff.
3. Edit myself in confrontations
4. Shop for clothes.

4 Things I did of which I am ashamed:
1. Believing that my Ex and I would be together til death, etc.
2. Believing my Ex wouldn't screw me out of everything, including his gifts to me.
3. Not standing up and walking out at the closing of the sale of our house
4. For 30 years believing I was nothing without my Ex

4 Things I did for which I am proud:
1. An AIDS buddy and caregiver.
2. The youngest member of the Mattachine Society in NYC
3. Participated in Stonewall disobedience events
4. Got arrested during a march against the non-war in Viet Nam.

4 Things I didn’t do that I regret:
1. Continue my love of dance and choreography
2. Attend film school in Prague
3. Stand up to the bullies in high school
4. Learn to play a musical instrument

4 Things I want before I die:
1. Peace
2. Being pain-free
3. Visit a few of our National Parks
4.  Experience love one more time.

And so it goes.
*