5 Questions-Audience Participation Edition

I think that Sarah and the Goon Squad used to do something like this but I don't remember what she called it. I suppose it's better than 20 questions, right? Here's what we do: Below are 5 quick questions. Answer them in the comments. I'll answer them too, just a little later in the day so others get a chance to respond first. Go ahead and respond to other's answers too-it's more fun when everyone jumps in and talks to each other. It's that simple!

1. What is the date, time of day, and general location (East coast, Europe, West coast, etc.,) where you are right now?
2. What did you eat for your last meal?
3. Silver or Gold?
4. Boxers or Briefs?
5. What song is in your head right now? Artist and title if you know it.

Aaaaaand...... GO!

Tag, You're it!

1. When did you get your ears pierced? I think I was about 5 or so. My best friend and next door neighbor got her's pierced and my parents had always said no. That is until I batted my eyelashes for my daddy and he caved. Mom was pissed, to my recollection.
2. Where was the first place you remember driving when you got your license? I think I drove to the old Denver airport, Stapleton.
3. What was your first car? (Either yours or yours to drive) The car that my brother and I both drove was a mid 80's Subaru 4-door hatchback wagon.
4. How many children did you want when you were young? How many do you have? There were times that I only wanted two but as I got older I wanted 3 or 4. I ended up with 3 for the price of 2, so, best of both worlds.
5. Do you have a garden? What is your favorite thing to grow? (veg or flower? Something else?) My favorite flowers are my roses: candy canes, Mr. Lincoln, sterling, sherbet. In our vegetable garden I love the tomatoes. There is NOTHING like a fresh tomato out of the garden. Heirlooms are the best.
6. What was the name of your first pet? Is there a story to go along with the name? Our dog when I was little was named Sojo- My dad and mom's initials. She was a Pekingnese.
7. What was the cutest thing one of your children has ever said? (Substitute neice or nephew if you aren't a parent.) Lots of things, but the first thing that comes to mind is the time my #2 said "Come to Papa". He was about 3 and was eating beets.
8. What is your favorite age of children, in general, (i.e. baby, toddler, school-age, teen, etc.,) And why. I think my favorite age is middle schoolers and high schoolers, followed closely by infants/babies. The inbetween of those two? Not so much.
9. What is your middle name? Lynn
10. What dessert flavor is your LEAST favorite? Lemon or other fruits like mango. Ick.

I won't tag anyone, but play along and let me know so I can come see your answers!

Prompt: What's in My Fridge?

I don't know if this was actually today's prompt or one from earlier in the month but I knew I could do this. I only hope you can't see how badly I need to deep clean my fridge.

I'll start in the freezer, from the top: broken icemaker with a bag of ice in it, frozen pasta sauce, 3 kinds of ice cream (one of which fell out when I opened the door to take this picture,) cool whip (left over from a party a few weeks ago,) lots of frozen fish and chicken, meatballs, a few bananas, a box of pineapple upside down cakes, and the bottom drawer is full of frozen vegetables and fruit for smoothies.

Right, refrigerator side, top to bottom: egg carton with one egg left, half used carton of chicken broth, 2 gallons of milk, almond milk, 2 half gallons of half and half (one has a wee drop left,) giant jug of orange juice, way in the back you can see the tops of: 2 open bottles of chardonnay, one bottle of champagne, a jug of cranberry juice and a bottle of sweet and sour mix left over from the wedding, and a bottle of Bailey's; cheese in the cheese drawer (!); mini containers of salsa from the Mexican place, left over spaghetti from tonight's dinner, left over pork chops that need to be thrown out, large container of hummus, a full container of eggs, cans of ginger ale, sliced tomatoes, a burger from the restaurant we went to last night (that #1 didn't even touch because it had onions on it but refused to send back,) crisper drawer has: lettuce, cucumbers, baby carrots, and other stuff I can't see or remember, which means I desperately need to clean it out,); meat drawer: bacon, ham steaks, and a half case of yogurt.

What's in your fridge? Seriously. Post your picture and tell me what's there!

Just Curious- Modern Conveniences

A long time ago I used to do a series of questions titled Just Curious. Usually simple questions about simple stuff that you do, like, use, that kind of thing. Since I always need a topic or two for NaBloPoMo I thought I'd resurrect it today.

What is a first-world, modern convenience, while you know it's ridiculous, you wouldn't want to do without?

Mine is laundry products. Stain remover, fabric softener, static remover. All of it. I've become weirdly obsessed with fabric softener and laundry scent additives for my laundry. And I have used a Bounce Bar in the dryer since they were left in my hotel at BlogHer many years ago. Obsessed. I know it's ridiculous, and as recently as one generation ago (my mother!) many families were lucky to have a washing machine, much less any of these other frivolities. (Not to mention people around the world who want access to clean water. I told you it's frivolous!) Crunchy sheets dried on the line were on the beds when I visited my grandparent's house when I was a child.

So spill it. What wouldn't you want to give up?

Just Curious: Killing Me

I know all the quack talk about "prices are higher in Europe" and that other things that we buy are way more expensive, but, Seriously? This is the most I've ever paid to fill up my van...by $10 or more! And this was taken last week. Luckily, I only have to fill up every 10 days or so.

So, what are gas prices in your area? I'm seriously considering moving just because of the high gas prices here. Convince me that I should be your neighbor.

Just Curious-Pet Peeves, Part 4

You guys have sure had some frustrating retail experiences! I think that Sara's response was close to mine: a cashier that ignores the fact that a line is forming and doesn't acknowledge the other customers...or direct them to the closest open checkout line. Or they don't ask for help when they obviously need it. My other pet peeve is obviously looking for a specific product, i.e. shoes, and the sales people look at you like you're bothering them and still don't ask you if you need help. (I'm looking at you, Dick's.)

Onward, my curious friends. This week we're turning our attention to the evening news. Specifically, what things do newscasters do that drive you nuts? Is it an outfit? A hand gesture? An often used, gramatically incorrect phrase? Let us hear it!

Just Curious-Pet Peeves, Part 3

Your responses on children were great! My pet peeves of other kids are when children rudely interrupt adult conversations (and their parents allow them to do it). They whine, pull on arms, yell... drives me nuts. This is something that I don't let my kids do...if they try, they get corrected. 

So, on to this week's question.... Pet Peeves again. When you're out shopping, what's your biggest pet peeve with cashiers/customer service? (Let's limit it to retail stores this time.) Really bring it this week: rant all you want!

photo

Just Curious-Pet Peeves, Part 2

Great answers on my previous Just Curious post, ladies. I laughed reading them again! Yes, many of those things Headless Dad does as well but around here there are 2 things that he does daily that make me roll my eyes.
1) Paper Towel Bombs-He is addicted to paper towels. He uses them to dry his hands, dry the dishes, as a paper plate for lunches, everything. BUT! They (almost) NEVER make it into the trash. I am constantly grabbing them and putting them in the bin which is usually directly under the spot on the counter where he's left it. Gah! And if he's cooking that day/night? They are all over.
2) He disappears each night. Yes, he goes off to bed, but never tells me when he's going. Sometimes I'll go into the kitchen to get a glass of water and by the time I get back to the family room, (which is practically the same room,) he's gone. Poof!

Now, here's this weeks question. We're moving on to the children in our lives. Not our own! What do other children do that drive you nuts? Is it in the grocery store? In your child's class? A niece or nephew? Grandchild? What are the habits that you say, "Gosh I'm glad he/she isn't mine!" Don't leave a name or identifying quality, just the silly habit. Like last week, I want this one to be light and fun.

Thanks for playing along!

Just Curious-Pet Peeves

(For more in the Just Curious series go here. The rules? I ask a question in today's post. You answer, short but sweet answers are best. I'll answer next week, then ask a new question. Easy!)


We've all got 'em. Pet peeves. What others do that drives us nuts. I've got a million on my own. Ahem.

However! Today we're going to focus on our spouse/significant other/most recent partner. (Being pc is such a hassle. You all know what I mean, right? Sheesh.) What does he/she do that drives you insane? Just the one, funny, little thing would be great. No starting WW3, please. Or being mean. Just a silly little thing...all of our guys have them, right? (It can't be just mine....)

Ready? Go! Pet peeves in the comments.....

The Last Night

It's been a long month, but I survived.

And apparently so did you, since you're still here reading!

Earlier this evening I skimmed my posts for this month and all in all I'm pretty impressed with myself. I actually wrote more than I didn't, if that makes sense. I'm a better blogger for having done this exercise this year. You hope anyway. Heh.

I also noticed a few loose ends that I should tie up....

• For my last Just Curious I asked about political issues. My big one is still immigration/border control/healthcare. I live in a border state. Just sayin'.
• I mentioned that I had gotten a phone call that you would want to hear about. It was in reference to the massive cluster **** that surrounded my son's last football game. One of the defensive coaches called to talk to me, HD, and HB#2. He apologized for not being aware enough of what was going on with the game to realize what was going on. He said that he was wrong to not stand up for the kids, and after this season he would certainly never make that mistake again. This is one stand up guy. I was hugely impressed that he called and talked to all 3 of us. It was the right thing to do in a crappy situation and we were all thankful that he had called.
• Peter posted some positive news about Anissa yesterday. Keep fighting, Girl!

And in other news, I found the best nightgown at Target the other day! It's like one of those spaghetti-strap tanks (with a built in bra!) but it comes down below my knees. It is really cute, soft, and the best part? It was $4.98. Seriously. (Gillian O'Malley, size Large, if you're interested in getting me a gift. Preferably any color except pink, since that's what I bought.) Next time you're in Target go grab one for yourself. You'll love me next spring when you pull it out, assuming that you live somewhere cold and won't be wearing it this winter. Otherwise you'll love me now. It's that comfy.

Oh, and I finally won the BFL this week! After my awful finish last week I came back for the big win, choosing 13/16 games correctly. Yea me! Stay tuned for the winner's badge-as soon as Greis sends it, it will go up.

I guess that is enough random for tonight. Did you complete NaBloPoMo? If so, let me know in the comments. It's huge thing to complete. I'm tired.

I'll check in later this week, I promise, but I'm way behind on cleaning, decorating, and getting ready for a certain big boy's first sleep over.

Oh yeah, and there's that little thing of grocery shopping...

Just Curious-Stirring It Up

Photo shamelessly stolen borrowed from Auds of Barking Mad. She is an amazing photographer, and her pictures make me want to move to the northeast on a regular basis.


I agree with you guys....Fall is one of my favorite seasons. I love the cooler weather after a hot summer. I love jeans and sweaters and boots. The fall color in the trees makes me smile. Snuggling in front of a fire during a Sunday of football is nirvana. So I guess my short answer would be the weather and the clothes!

Ok, for this week, I'm going to revisit my very first Just Curious topic. Political issues. What is the ONE issue that you follow and vote for? The one issue that you think is MOST important in our country today? Please, I only want to know the issue, not your opinion. This is not a debate, just what is on your radar. It's been 2 years and I'd like to see if the issues have changed or if they have stayed the same.

OK! Let me have it!

Oh, and go enter my contests at HFRG, please?

Just Curious-Fall

I actually made it through Halloween! Thanks for the suggestions on costumes. If you follow me on FB you probably saw what I came up with. My husband had a costume left over from an 80's party that we went to a few years ago, complete with a mullet wig, so I went digging for something 80's to wear. I hit the jackpot! I dug out my green leather skirt and matching pumps. (I actually fit into the skirt! That is a major feat!) I dug out my concert t-shirts (I wore Depeche Mode from 1986 and HD wore Billy Idol, 1985.) I rocked the white pantyhose and leg warmers, bracelets, earrings, and hair bigger than should be legally allowed. I was actually worried about being a fire hazard. My boys were Zombie sports figures and #1 decided that we should be a zombie family. So, we actually rocked the zombie look as a family. As HD said (all night) "The 80's are Dead!"




Now for today's question: What's your favorite part of fall? The weather? The holidays? Your wardrobe? Something else? Let me know, because it refuses to become fall here and I need to remember what my favorite season is all about!

Just Curious-Just for the Girls

Last week I asked about your favorite movie. Thanks for all of your great suggestions-I'm going to keep my eye out for them on the OnDemand feature of our cable, (a much cheaper way to catch up on movies than the theater or renting.)

As for my favorite movie of all time, it would have to be When Harry Met Sally, followed closely by Moonstruck. They are both romantic comedies, so I suppose you could say that is my favorite genre, although I do love me some '80's teen movies. Come to think of it, some of those could be romantic comedies, too, so I guess I am pretty consistent after all.

For this week's question, I must turn to the ladies in the crowd. I need your suggestions on your favorite makeup foundation. I'm almost out and I'm looking for something with moisturizer weight and medium coverage. Any favorites? Oh, and hopefully it will also be affordable!

Thanks!

Just Curious-Whoops!

I guess in all of my worry last week I forgot to answer my own question! Sorry! Forgive?

OK. Good, thanks.

For you all, the consensus was eyes and for those of you that I've met I'd agree that they are beautiful! My favorite feature of my own is my legs. I was a cheerleader in high school and after camp sophomore year I became obsessed with being able to do a hurkey. (A jump that cheerleaders do: one leg out and straight, the other bent back, kinda to the side. The hurdler version looks just like a runner jumping over hurdles. I did a hybrid of the two.) I managed to master that jump and I directly attribute my great legs to the conditioning that cheerleading gave me. We certainly did not work out as hard as today's cheerleaders, but it's what got me moving in high school.

Yes, I think I still have fabulous legs. I walk the hills around my house to keep up the muscle tone, so it's not all easy, but it's definitely worth it. Especially when my husband notices! ;-)

I've gotten a little more forgiving lately of my body. (I said a little.) It is helping me to notice the good things about my body. I'm thinking I'm not looking too bad for an (almost) old broad. Take it from me-even just a little positive talk every day makes a world of difference. Try it. Move beyond your eyes to your shoulders, your legs, your feet, your arms-whatever would be your second choice- and embrace it. If you're alive, there is something else that you like about your body.

Now, on to today's question. I promise I'll be back next week (maybe not on Tuesday, though,) to answer!

What's your favorite movie?

With winter coming up I need to catch up on the movies I've missed. Old or new, Hit Me! Considering we could be in an El Nino year, I may be spending a lot of time on this couch!

Just Curious-Favorie Feature

It's been a loooong time since I've done this. I'm bringing back my Just Curious series. For those of you that don't know, here are the rules:

• Each week I'll post a question that requires a one word or short phrase answer.
• You'll comment with your answer.
• I'll answer the following week and ask a new question.

Pretty easy, huh?

OK. For today's question:

What is your favorite feature (on your body)? Is it your eyes? Skin? Hair? Something else? We all need to have one thing that we love about ourselves, what's yours?

Can't wait to hear your answers!

More Just Curious questions and answers here. Read from the bottom to the top if you want to read the question before the answer. Usually the comments are way better than my answer!

Just Curious-TV

I thought I would bring back Just Curious for the holidays. Or, well, at least this week. Hey, it's my blog-I make the rules here.

If you're new around these parts, the Just Curious series is where I ask a question. Usually it is a short answer question, sometimes even one word. Audience participation, people. I ask this week, you answer, and I chime in next week. You in?

OK. So our question this week is about you favorite TV shows. What was your favorite show as a kid? As a teen? As a college student? Now? What about your all-time favorite show-the one that you'll watch on TNT, USA or Nick At Night whenever you happen upon it? Answer all or just one. I'm Just Curious!

To read more in the Just Curious series click here.

Just Curious- Favorite Dinner Answers

Mmmmmm. You all have GREAT favorite dinners. Last week was a ploy to help me to get out of my cooking funk. It really helped.

To recap:

• 5 of you still crave Chicken and Dumplin's.
• 2 Mac and Cheese votes.
• 3 had some kind of mashed potatoes and gravy on their list.
• 5 votes total for some kind of lasagne/pasta.
  

Wow. We're a bunch of carb and starch lovers, aren't we? No wonder I'm having trouble with these last 5 or 10 pounds!

My favorites included many of the things that were on the list already. My Granny's Chicken and Dumplin's-The best in the world. Maw Maw's lasagne was great-like Dad said, must have been the American cheese because I've never tasted anything like it before or since. Mom's meatloaf, mashed potatoes, and green beans was always my hands-down, all-time favorite meal at home. Luckily, I have the recipe and my kids request it as much as I used to! I frequently make it for all 3 kids' birthdays- which is sometimes twice in one week! Anything for my kids, right?

I did make meatloaf last week, and I always make double so we have enough for sandwiches. We ended up having leftovers (See Mary? Leftovers! That 30 days of Nothing really helped!) Although no one got sandwiches this time since we got 2 dinners out of it. Tomorrow I am trying Shannon's recipe for Chicken and Dumplings. It was her grandmother's recipe and sounds a lot like Granny's, so I'm hopeful that I can do it justice. I'll let you know how it goes.

Programming note: I'm suspending "Just Curious" for a few weeks to answer everyone's questions from this post. If you haven't asked your question yet, you still have time! Thank you all for participating in both. If you have an interesting idea for a "Just Curious" question, let me know-I'm all ears.

Just Curious- Favorite Dinner

Sounds like we all hate Homework Time. Well, except for maybe Keetha, who is done-no more kids of her own to hound about homework, and Sarah- she home schools, so ALL of their work is homework. I think you'd have to put me in a rubber room! The worst part for me is the dilly-dallying. Truly. Every day the boys come home and it's all I can do to get them to do one whole worksheet, top to bottom, without telling, threatening, reminding, GAH, Just get it done! It doesn't even matter what subject it is, if it's easy or not, fun or not, the order of business is screw around, whine, delay. If you have any tips, be sure to let me know-this is killing me.

*****

Now, on to the question for this week. I want to know what your VERY favorite meal was as a kid. It can be something a parent or grandparent cooked for you, or a special meal at a restaurant. Comfort food or fancy food. Come on, make my mouth water! (Or just make me want to cook again....)

Just Curious- Homework Time!

You all had some great and sneaky tricks last week for our Just Curious-One Chore. Around here, Headless Dad can't stand a messy kitchen, but I hate to do dishes all day long. Cunundrum? No, I just get up and so the dishes right before I begin to make dinner. He gets a clean kitchen when he gets home and I don't have to be in the sink all day. I also will sometimes run the vacuum and spray a little Febreeze on the furniture so it looks AND smells like there was a lot of cleaning going on. I also end up freaking out a bit when there is junk on the stairs-you wouldn't know it but occasionally I blow when there is too much junk waiting to be delivered to it's home from the staging spot that is our staircase.

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So, on to todays question. Confession time, you guys. What about your kids' homework do you HATE? Is it the reading log that has to be filled out just.so.? Is it the math? Is it the amount of homework the teacher gives? Or is it just the attitude with which your child handles (or doesn't handle) the work load? Tell all, Friends!

Just Curious-One Chore

So many of the responses last week were SPOT ON about parenting. If you haven't read all of the comments I suggest that you do-great stuff there! As Kelly said, I believe that kids need a parent more than a friend-something I try to do. The best advice given to me, though, was that YOU know your kid best. Their cries, their joy, all of it goes into making the best decisions for them, for you, and your family. As an example, check out Marcy's post about knowing something was wrong with her son and fighting to do something about it. She knew, she fought, and she won in the end.

*****

As for our question this week: what is the one chore that you can pull yourself off of the couch for? You know, the one thing that will make you think that your day has not been lost to blogging, television, and the like? Or what do you do to make the other people in your house think that you got off of that couch? ;-) Tell all people!