Donuts, Eggs, Bakers, and Lindas

I know it's late. I doubt anyone is going to read my answers. But I simply cannot let two weeks in a row go by while ignoring the random dozen. This meme is hosted by Linda at 2nd Cup of Coffee. But in a show of great friendship and helpfulness, this week's questions were provided by Linda at Mocha with Linda. Either way they're great questions. So without further ado (because I don't know what I'd do with more ado anyway) here are my belated answers.
1. Do you prefer to read the book or see the movie?

Whichever I see/read first.

2. What is your favorite holiday and why?
Christmas. Presents. (Duh!)

3. Which do you like better - the mountains or the beach?
Beach. It's closer.

4. If money were no consideration, what vehicle would you drive?
Hummer. And before you get all "it's a gas-guzzler" on me, money's no object, remember? And if money's no object and I'm driving a Hummer, just imagine what kind of a house I'm parked in front of!

5. What is your favorite cold-weather beverage?
I would have to find cold weather first. We don't get that often in Florida.

6. How do you communicate most often with your friends: phone, email, text, face-to-face, or Facebook?
Depends on how close a friend they are. : )

7. How do you receive your mail? Mailbox on the porch, at the end of the driveway, down the street, or post office box?
Usually late, and crammed into the box so that I have to yank and pull and sometimes tear to get it out. I have issues with our mail delivery person.

8. Of the four basic personality types - sanguine, phlegmatic, melancholic, and choleric - which is your strongest? Which is your least evident? (See definitions below.)
My husband and I had a discussion on this recently. He and I disagree on my strongest personality types.  I think we finally came to the conclusion that I have all four. I strongly suspect what he was really suggesting was that I have multiple personalities.

9. What do you miss the most about being 20?
Let's see ... was it the fact that my face was still breaking out? No. I was too shy to make friends? Nope. I didn't have much of a personality yet? Uh huh. I give up. Why am I supposed to miss being 20?

10. How long from the time you get up, does it take you to get ready to walk out the door in the morning?
Are you talking about actually, physically making myself presentable and ready to face the world or are you talking about including all the stuff that comes up during the time I'm trying to make myself presentable and ready to face the world? Because it makes a difference.

11. Who handles the car maintenance and pays the bills in your family?
You make it sound as if one person does both. Sometimes I do. Sometimes he does. Sometimes neither of us does, and that always makes life a little more exciting!

12. For those in the US, how many states have you visited? For those outside the US, how many provinces/other countries have you visited?
When I was in the U.S. I visited all the States I drove through and most of the ones I rode through. When I was out of the U.S. I definitely visited all the countries that I was supposed and some that I never intended to. (It's late and I'm not even sure these answers count anymore. What did you expect?)

The Birthday Random

1. From "Men Are Dumb ....": If you had a theme song that played whenever you walked into a room full of people, what would it be?
Here Comes the Sun. Either that or The Baby Elephant Walk. But I prefer the first one.

2. From Pam of "Alert And Oriented x 4": Which of your shoes are your absolute favorite, and which are of the object of your most painful shoe-buyer's remorse?
All my shoes are favorites. I don't care how much they hurt or pinch--I will never give them up! Never! 

3. From Susanne of "Living to Tell the Story": Tell about your favorite birthday celebration that you've personally experienced.
Great birthday: 16th. Family threw me a party with balloons and posters and streamers everywhere. The entire youth group came. I was overwhelmed and excited that it was all about me. (Shallow little thing, wasn't I?) : ) Worst birthday: 35th. I was in the hospital in Uganda, fighting off a bout of malaria. Most of the rest have fallen somewhere between those two.

4. From Lori of "Just me and My Life": If you were a flavor of ice cream, which would you be?
I would be every one of the 31 flavors at Baskin Robbins. It would be too boring to choose just one.

5. Cindy Swanson of "Notes in the Key of Life" asks: Have you ever had a crush on a movie star? Who was it, and are you still crushing?
When I was a kid there was a Saturday morning show (not a cartoon) called the Kids from Caper. They were dudes that ran around solving weird mysteries like one episode where everyone thought they were turning into hotdogs. The Kids from Caper rode around in a big van called the Big Bologna. (I am not making this up.) I had a crush on Doc because he was the smart one of the bunch. He also happened to be the cutest. I have gotten over my crush, but it was a long and painful process. Thanks for stirring up old memories.

6. Jill from "Jill Boyd's Place" inquires: Glasses or braces--if you had to wear one, which would it be?
Yes, this is me, and yes, this is a dumb question. It was the first thing that popped into my mind, but since I asked it I'll answer it. I would chose glasses because then I could have the option of going with contact lenses. Which I did. But my teeth are still crooked.

7. Nel from "Fasteneau Facts" asks: If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be?
In a house. I'm not big on outdoor living.

8. Thena from "Patiently Waiting" wants to know: If money were no obstacle, what would be the perfect birthday gift to receive?
Money, and lots of it.

9. From "Life Through Bifocals," LynnMarie asks: What is your favorite birthday meal?
The one I don't have to cook or clean up.

10. Debby at "Just Breathe" checks in with: Do you still send hand-written thank you notes?
Yes, but unfortunately they rarely make it all the way to the mailbox.

11. Linda from "Mocha with Linda" poses this question: What is something you've done that you never thought you'd do?
Live in Africa although I should have seen it coming when I married Indiana Jones.

12. Jewel, my homegirl from Indiana who writes at "Musings from the World of Jewel," is very insistent that we answer this: Mount Rushmore honors four US Presidents: Washington, Jefferson, Lincoln, and Roosevelt. If you could add any person to Mount Rushmore, who would you add and why?
Our 10th President, John Tyler. He loved kids and had fifteen children. Come to think of it, maybe we should put his wife's face on Mt. Rushmore instead!


Now click on the donuts at the top of the page to enjoy some more great answers. Not that my answers were great, necessarily, but you know what I mean.

The Girls' Group Random

Feel like answering some random questions? The click on the link and join in! After reading my answers, of course. That is why you came here, isn't it?
1. Do you believe, somewhere deep inside, that blondes do indeed have more fun? That they are "dumber" than brunettes or redheads? Be honest!
I honestly don't think dumbness is restricted to hair color.


2. Which animal would you most like to observe in its wild habitat?
Is this a new topic for reality television?

3. This week the U.N. announced that Dr. Mazlan Othman has been appointed the official "Alien Ambassador,"should any extraterrestrials contact us. Have you, or has anyone you know, ever seen a UFO?
Sure, they fly through the air at our house all the time. But after close observation the UFO's are usually identified as shoes or toys that the boys have thrown at each other. One time it was the cat, but I put a stop to that. BTW, can I just say that if I were Dr. Mazlan Othman I don't think I'd be bragging about the appointment. On the other hand, considering her name, I think she has her own set of issues.


4. Name your favorite Hitchcock film.
I don't get to watch these types of movies much at my house. Not enough characters are blown up or shot.

5. Would you rather spend time at the library, the mall, a craft store or home?
I would want to be at the library if I'm in the mood to read, the mall if I'm in the mood to shop, and the craft store if I'm in the mood to be tortured until I would welcome stabbing a pencil into my eye.

6. Which Disney princess is your favorite? (Or Disney character, if you are a guy)
I definitely identify with Cinderella. I do all the work, I can never find my other shoe, and I think my car was a pumpkin in another life.

7. What kind of art is your favorite?
The kind that actually forms an identifiable picture.


8. How do you feel about viral videos, that is, videos made by amateurs that end up on Youtube receiving thousands of hits?
I'm still working on mine.

9. Where do you buy your jeans?
I thought we were stuck with the genes we were born with. If we can buy others, I'd like some skinny genes, please.

10. Tell me about your first automobile accident.
Why would you assume that there's been more than one?

11. Have you ever been honest when you knew you would benefit more if you would be dishonest?
If I said no, would I not be being honest about being dishonest?

12. If you were appointed "Ambassador to Aliens," what would you show and tell first about life on Earth? What would be the most difficult thing to explain?
I think it would be very important to point out the locations of Walmart. After traveling that far, aliens would definitely need to restock a few necessities. And I think it would be most difficult to explain why we think we're the dominant species on earth, but we follow our dogs around all the time, picking up their poo and carrying it in little bags.


And with that sobering thought I challenge you to click on the links and join the fun. Leave a comment, and I'll come read your answers too!

That Impromptu Random

After having lost the original questions she was going to use for today, Lid at 2nd Cup of Coffee came up with a dozen more on the spot. And that is why we love her!
1. Have you, or has someone close to you, ever won an award for anything? (I just came from my dad's ceremony wherein he was given a medal of honor by the French government for service in France in WWII. Pictures to follow.)
Truthfully, I can't think of anything I've ever won. Now I'm really sad. 
2. Who is the nearest relative to you who has served in the US Military?
I'm pretty sure I had relatives on both sides of the Civil War. Seriously. One relative on both sides. Never really did know whether he was a Yankee or a Rebel at heart. Since either side wanted to claim him, both sides shot him. It's the only thing Yankees and Southerners ever agreed on. (I'm making this up.)
3. Share something that stirs the patriotic spirit in you.
The dictionary defines a patriot as someone who vigorously supports his country and its way of life. With that in mind, I feel patriotic when discussing the war on terrorism. Or illegal immigration. Or a mosque at Ground Zero. Or ...
4. Where are you in the birth order in your family? Do you think your "placement" made a difference in your personality?
I am the third of six. I don't think the birth order affected my personality. If I were older, I would have still been me as a child, but with more responsibilities. If I were younger in the pecking order, I still would have been me, but I would have gotten away with a lot more.
5. Name one trait you hope you carry that was evidenced in your parents or grandparents.
I wanted to be a great cook like my Grandma. Hasn't happened yet, and I'm beginning to lose hope.
6. If female, do you prefer wearing a skirt or pants? If male, shirt and tie or polo?
I'm a female and I choose a skirt, but I also always wear a shirt. People stare otherwise.
7. Approximately how many times do you wake during the night? What do you do to go back to sleep?
It depends on what I take before I go to bed.
8. Share a favorite movie quote.
"You work on commission, right? Big mistake. Big. Huge. I have to go shopping now!"
9. What is your favorite Fall candle scent?
Crunching leaves. Actually, I don't think a candle comes in that scent, but I love the smell of leaves when you're scuffing through them on the way home from school. I haven't experienced that smell any time recently since I'm no longer in school. And since I live in Florida. Palm tree fronds don't crunch.
10. What is one Fall activity you're looking forward to?
Enjoying weather that is not in the 90's. Gloat all you want to, Northerners. Give it a few weeks and you'll be moaning about the cold, and I'll--well, I'll probably still be complaining that it's too hot.
11. Tell us about a pleasant surprise that happened to you recently.
My children obeyed me. When I got over the shock I was pleasantly surprised. While it lasted. Which it didn't. But still, for that moment ...
12. What was it like when you first met your in-laws-to-be?
I met my in-laws two days before our wedding. The meeting went very well which was a good thing since it was a little late to cancel everything.

So, anyone know where my movie quote came from? Tell me in the comments, and then click on the donuts to go see everyone else's answers.

A Dozen Little Things

1. Do you do garage sales? If so, tell me about one great find. If not, tell me why not.

I have no problem with garage sales, yard sales, rummage sales. I can't think of any particularly great finds, but I do know there are several things you should never buy used. Electronics for one. Underwear for another.

2. Name the last thing you fixed.
I gave birth to five boys. I should never have to fix anything. And I never have to take out the garbage.

3. Name your A) Favorite item of makeup OR B) Favorite tool
I have a set of pink tools. I got them so that the males in my house wouldn't use them, and then I'd always be able to find a screwdriver when I needed one. Unfortunately, the guys are all secure enough in their masculinity that they don't care about the color on the tools, and I still don't know where my screwdriver is. Maybe if I painted daisies on the handle ...


4. Which room in your home needs organizing more than any other?
I need organizing more than my rooms do.


5. Which room could use re-decorating?
Regrettably, I need redecorating more than my rooms do.


6. Share something unique about your town.
Hmmm. We have Disney World. Yeah, I'd say that's pretty unique.


7. If you could send a one-sentence message to your great-grandchild, what would it be?
I'm not a great-grandmother so you don't exist.

8. Do you Facebook?
Facebook is not a verb. It is not an action, and therefore, it is not possible to "facebook". I am on Facebook, if that's what you're asking.


9. Describe your favorite shoes.
The ones I'm not wearing.

10. Do you listen to more talk radio or more music radio? What kind of station is it?
Mostly I listen to the boys chattering/arguing/playing when we're in the car. Or I listen to the voices in my head.


11. How far would you travel for a really good (favorite) meal?
Most of my favorite foods are way too close.

12. If you were totally honest with yourself (and us) what should you probably be doing right now instead of blogging?
Living life so that I have something to blog about.


If you enjoyed that, (and seriously, who wouldn't?) then click on the donuts at the beginning of the post and head on over to Linda's at 2nd Cup of Coffee. Why, you ask? Because I said so for one thing. But, you can also read a lot of other great answers to this questions. And you can link up with your own answers, as well.

Hey, wait a minute! Don't forget to leave a comment first!

Randomly Random

And we're back from the bakery with an even dozen. Or should I say, a random dozen. That's right, folks. Here's a dozen questions that you have never always wondered about me. Once you read my answers, and comment on them of course, click on the donuts to go to Lid's and read lots of other random dozen answers that are as varied as the Dunkin Donuts around the corner. Only less fattening. Enjoy!
1. Describe the best sandwich in the world, according to you.

Arby's french dip and swiss is to die for.
2. Which inspires you more: a good conversation, a song, a book or movie?
I'm inspired by the good conversation that was started because of the title song played in a movie that was based on a book.
3. What is your favorite board game?
I love Balderdash. And Outburst. Yessir, lying and shouting louder than everyone else. Two areas where I really excel.
4. As you grow older, are you more or less patient with small children?
This question would imply I once had patience with small children.
5. Name one item you never let yourself run out of.
I always have chocolate on hand in some form. It is as essential as breathing.
6. Do you agree with Tennyson's assertion, "'Tis better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all?"
Sounds kind of like the team that says they don't care about winning--they just play for the joy of the game. You never hear the winners saying that.
7. Name one national treasure or monument that you have visited.
I've been to quite a few, but I'd like to go back and visit them again now that I've seen National Treasure. I don't think I'd be so careful to stay inside the tourist boundaries the next time.
8. Which is more painful, to be disappointed in someone else or to be disappointed in yourself?
Ask Tennyson. He seems to be the man with all the answers.
9. What makes your kitchen uniquely yours?
The mortgage payment.
10. Are you a crafty person?
I once went to a tag party for scrapbooking. Everyone was supposed to make tags to give to everyone else at the party. I used stick-ons to create my kindergarten-equivalent tags. I finished in the first fifteen minutes and then hid my tags and watched everyone else work.
11. What is your favorite traditional picnic or bbq (cookout) food?
Whatever meat was on sale that week.
12. Name one leisurely activity you enjoyed over Labor Day Weekend.
Taking the family out on the boat. Tubing was great fun until the alligator showed up!

Without Definite Aim

I know you were probably scared by the title, but don't worry. This is still the weekly Random Dozen. Dictionary.com defines random as without definite aim. Not really sure that's accurate, because my aim is to amuse and entertain. Well, you tell me if I hit what I didn't aim at.

1. What insect are you most afraid of? Feel free to post a picture.
I am afraid of insects that are alive. I'm not real fond of ones that are dead either, but at least they're not moving.
2. What is the greenest/most organic thing about you or that you do?
As a human I am 100% organic.
3. Tell me about a recurring dream that haunts you.
I used to have nightmares about spiders when I was a child. See #1.
4. Have you ever missed a flight? What were the circumstances?
We came close to missing our flight when we were moving to Uganda as missionaries. They held us up at check in because apparently they couldn't grasp why a family of eight would have one-way tickets to Uganda. When they finally cleared us, we did a mad dash through the Atlanta airport. We had six children, four of them under the age of five. In a pre-9/11 world, we had sixteen footlockers to check, plus each of us had a carryon. Three of the kids were on kiddie leashes, the youngest was in a carrier on my back, and we had five other people racing through the airport with us, trying to help us get everyone on the plane. By the time we got to the gate, the man that held us up at check in was already there (don't ask me how he got there so fast!), telling us we needed to hurry because we were holding up the plane. Our friends kissed us goodbye and practically threw us on the airplane before it exited the gate. We were so late they'd already gone through all the emergency instructions, and other passengers had already spread out to claim our seats. There was an audible groan when our large family appeared. It was not an auspicious beginning.
5. What do you consider your best feature?
My ability to maintain my estrogen levels in a testosterone-filled world. (I live with my husband and five sons. Believe me, resisting the urge to spit or scratch in public is an every day battle.)
6. What was the last concert you went to?
Steve Green concert. Milwaukee, 1992. I don't get out much.
7. Describe the most embarrassing church moment you ever experienced.
That would be the time I tripped on the platform while the choir sang their opening number. I fell to my hands and knees with my rear end waving at the congregation. 
8. Are you a whistler, hummer or singer?
I've never been able to whistle, much to the amusement of my kids. And I'm not an SUV, although I wouldn't mind owning a hummer. So I guess I'm a singer. Some people may beg to differ.
9. George Washington Carver said, "I love to think of nature as an unlimited broadcasting station, through which God speaks to us every hour, if we will only tune in." What is God saying to you through nature today, or this very minute?
Nature is telling me that it's time to go to bed. Or to the bathroom. Maybe it's telling me it's time to go to the bathroom so I can go to bed.
10. On September, 1, 1752, the Liberty Bell arrived in Philadelphia. What memorable event will take place in your life on September 1, 2010?
My sixteen-year-old will get his driver's permit. My hair coloring will officially give up on the impossible. The second event hinges on the first.
11. Taco Bell or the Liberty Bell? (You must choose.)
I choose Liberty. (It was an easy choice. Our Taco Bell has notoriously bad service.)
12. Do you believe men and women can have purely platonic friendships?
Okay so you have a purely platonic friendship with someone of the opposite sex. You begin to relax and let your hair down like you would with any friend. It's even better if you say they're "like a brother". Then one day you wake up and realize that your friend is not, after all, related to you. You find that you're attracted to them in a way you had never imagined. And to make matters worse, you've already let your guard down to the point where they know you better than you know yourself. Sounds like a standard romcom to me!

And now comes the best part of this wonderful world of random. Leave your comment of course, and then click on the donuts at the top of the post in order to read lots of other answers to the random as well. And if you're feeling particularly adventurous, copy the questions and answer them on your own blog as well. You don't have a blog? Well what are you waiting for?!?!

Hey, Wait A Minute! It's The Random!

Once again we have that wonderful past time called the Random Dozen. Lid over at 2nd Cup of Coffee asks twelve interesting, provocative and sometimes thought-provoking questions. Those of us that are gluttons for punishment attempt to answer them with wisdom, honesty and an occasional bit of wit. Those of you that have nothing better to do like to be entertained, read the answers, leave a comment (remember last week's answers--I need affirmation!) and then click on the donuts to read some more answers.

Come on! What are you waiting for?

1. What is your favorite Mexican dish?
Cheese. It's on just about every Mexican food, and the more you use, the better it gets.
2. When you were a kid, did you get started on your homework right away after school, or did you procrastinate?
I rarely had homework. I was just that good. 
3. What is your favorite store for home furnishings?
The one that sells furniture sturdy enough to stand up to the antics of our five sons.
4. When you were young, did you like school lunches?
Hey, anything beats peanut butter and jelly!
5. Is religion a crutch?
If my relationship with Christ is a crutch, than I refuse to ever be well enough to walk without Him.
6. In your region, what is the "big" (most popular in the community or state) high school sport?
Sunbathing. We live in Florida for pete's sake. What did you expect?
7. Do you consider yourself rich?
Why? Are you looking for a loan? 
8. Which of these would you have the best chance for success in administering:
A) CPR
B) Heimlich Maneuver
C) Changing a flat tire
I'm gonna go with changing a flat. I've never been trained in any of the three, but if I fail in changing a flat, at least I won't kill anybody.
9. Which dance would you prefer to learn & why:
A) Salsa
B) Hip Hop
C) Waltz
D) Swing
Okay, I am so incredibly NOT graceful that the mental image of me doing any of the above is just--really bad. Seriously. Stop giggling.
10. What's the worst news you've ever delivered to someone?
The first day I taught high school I told each of my classes, "My name is Mrs. Boyd, and I will be your English teacher this year." It was the worst news they'd every heard.
11. Name something you learned in college that had nothing to do with classes or academics.
I learned how to do the splits. I can't do them anymore. 
12. New variation on an old question: If there's a song in your head that just won't get out, what is your favorite (or most repeated) line in that song?
I don't actually have a song going through my head at the moment, but there is a song that my kids sing about a magical elf who lived in a rainbow tree. He lived downstairs from a flatulent dwarf who was constantly having to pee. Now aren't you sorry you asked?
Okay, if you've recovered from that mental image, leave a comment and run off to read other random dozen answers. And if you can finish the song from #12, well you have a sorrier life than I do.

Deep Random

Sometimes you have to dig deep to really get to the heart of a matter. I think this week's random questions are like that. Fortunately, I'm not that deep a person, so I'm still going to go with the humorous look at things.

You know the drill. Read. Comment. Click the donuts. Read more. Comment more. Copy and do your own. Don't forget the comment part. That's especially important to me because of #12!

1. What is your favorite fair/carnival food?

I don't think it's the type of food. Fair/Carnivals are about the quantity of food. And how deeply it's fried. And how much you're going to regret that you ate so much when it keeps you awake that night.

2. Are you holding onto something you need to let go of?

Hey, I'm all for holding onto things. The safety bar on the rollercoaster, the railing on the stairs, the waistband of undergarments that are a little too loose. Sometimes you can't hang on tightly enough!
3. What is your favorite gift to receive?

One that's given to me. I've tried receiving gifts that were meant for someone else, but ... Awkward!
4. When was the last time you tried something new?

Why mess with things if they're working?
5. What is your favorite and least favorite book genre?
Memoir, Mystery, Political Intrigue, Romance, Humor, Historical Fiction, Historical nonfiction, Chick Lit, Self-Help, Other

I love suspense. Nothing like a good puzzle with lots of twists and a little life-threatening danger thrown in. My least favorite is self-help. If I have to help myself, why are you writing a book about it?
6.Silver or Gold?

Both spend well. But if we're talking Olympic medals, I'll take a gold, please.
7. What makes you sigh?

Some of the questions on the Random.
8. If you didn't know how old you are, how old would you claim you are?

Knowing how old I actually am has absolutely no bearing on the age I claim to be.
9. Would you break a law to save a loved one? To protect a loved one?

It depends on the law and the loved one. Third cousins don't rate a felony.
10. If you had to teach something, what would it be?

Listening to your mother. It's such an underrated, but obviously needed trait.
11. You're having lunch with 3 people whom you respect and admire. They begin to criticize a close friend of yours, not knowing she is your friend. What do you do?

 I'd join in and dish some added dirt to spice up the conversation. Unless they were talking about you, of course.

12. Which of the 5 Love Languages is your prominent means of experiencing love?
Quality Time
Physical Touch
Acts of Service
Gifts
Words of Affirmation

I'm gonna go with Words of Affirmation, and you know what that means! Leave some comments, or you'll be dealing a serious blow to my mental well being!

The Summer Without Random

We missed it. We pined for it. We worried it would never return. But after a long hiatus, the Random Dozen is back!








Most of you know how this works. For the uninitiated, read the questions and follow #1 in your responses. Leave a comment. Then click on the donuts and go to Lid's at 2nd Cup of Coffee to find more blogs that answer these questions. You could even copy the questions and answer them on your own blog. If you did, I would read them. No, seriously. I would. So what are you waiting for?
1. When was the last time you laughed until you cried?
Recently.  I've also laughed until juice came out my nose. I've laughed until other unpleasant things have happened as well, but I don't feel like sharing them here.
2. If you found $10 today, what would you do with it?
Spend it. (Free money, duh!)
3. Do you volunteer anywhere?
I volunteer for most of what I do. If I got paid for everything, I'd have enough money to pay someone to blog for me. Or at least to read all the other blogs that I follow. *GASP* Did I say that out loud?
4. What is your favorite summertime veggie or fruit, and how do you eat it?
As with any other food, I eat fruit and veggies with my mouth. It's so much easier than shoving them up my nose. BTW, I'm fond of the kumquat and the loquat because I like saying kumquat and loquat. I have no idea what they taste like.
5. Is your social sphere (circle of friends) small, medium or large?
I prefer not to categorize my friends by their size. That seems awfully shallow to me. 
6. When was the last time you attended a family or school reunion? How did that go?
I graduated from a very small school. My graduating class could have a reunion if I happened to run into the other graduate at the store.
7. When you're feeling blue, what is the best way someone can cheer you up?
Hand me some Midol.
8. Have you taken a vacation this summer?
I took a wonderful one. I left the kids behind, but reluctantly took the husband.
9. What is the most unnecessary item you carry with you all the time?
The extra weight. And yet, in spite of it being completely unnecessary, I somehow find that I carry it with me everywhere. I should do something about that.
10. What is the best summer flick you have seen so far?
Let me scroll through our Netflix queue and I'll let you know.
11. Describe a perfect summer day.

A picture's worth a thousand words ...

12. Please a share a favorite photo from the summer so far!

... and two Random Dozen questions!

Okay now leave your comment and then go link up. What are you waiting for?

A Random Party

You know the routine: Read. Laugh. Comment. Click. Repeat.

1. Would you rather host a party or simply attend a party?

Let's see. Hosting a party:  you do the cleaning and the planning and the prep work and fuss at your husband because he isn't helping and then fuss at him because he is helping, but not the way you want him to, and fix the food and plan the events and worry whether everyone's having a good time and clean up when everyone goes home and fuss at your husband because he isn't helping, and then fuss at him because he is helping, but not the way you want him to.

Attending a party:  you go and enjoy yourself. Leave when you feel like it, and then critique everything and everyone on the way home and explain how you could have thrown a better party. (Not that I've ever done that.)

Ummmm, I'm not sure.

2. Tell us about the most memorable party you've been to.
Probably the surprise party I threw for my husband's fortieth birthday. I threw it six months after he turned forty. He never saw it coming.

3. What is one thing you hope for in the after-life?
I know I'll have a mansion in Heaven someday. I just hope mine comes with a maid.

4. What do you enjoy most about sunshine?
Perhaps ... the sun?

5. When you attend a bridal/baby shower, do you prefer to bring your own gift or chip in with others to buy a larger gift?
What really works best is if you don't bring a gift at all. Then you volunteer to list the gifts and givers as the guest of honor is opening the presents. Write your own name down and give yourself credit for something. 


Not that I've ever done that.

6. Would you rather have a FREE week of having your house cleaned or all of your meals cooked for you and your family?
Does that mean someone cleans my house for free, but they wouldn't cook my meals for free? And is that having all your meals cooked for a week or is that all your meals cooked forever? I always like to read the fine print before I agree to something.

7. What song describes your mood today?
He'll Carry Me.

8. What is something you received for your own bridal shower/wedding that you still own or use? (If you are not married, feel free to sub a gift you received a long time ago.)
My husband.

9. Your favorite flavor of ice cream is?
Totally dependent on my mood.

10. When was the last time you felt "tested?"
When was the last time I spoke to one of my teenage sons?

11. "[Fill in the blank] is a food that once I start eating I find really hard to stop."
Food is a food that once I start eating I find really hard to stop. (So sad, but true.)

12. "-----" is the best motivation.
The satisfaction of a job well done is the best motivation. Unless, of course, you're a dog. Then the best motivation is a big juicy bone.


What? You expected something inspirational? I save those for Friday's posts. 

Gotta Love the Random!

That's right, sports fans! It's time for another Random Dozen. You know the rules: read the questions and answers. Laugh loudly at my wit. Leave a fun comment. Click here to head over to Lid's so you can link up with your own questions. Let the fun begin!





1. What was the last thing about which you procrastinated?

Ummmm, I'll have to get back to you on that.


2. How long does it take you to fall asleep, and do you sleep through the night?

Lately I fall asleep any time I sit still for very long. Makes driving a challenge. Sleep through the night? Hardly. Now that my kids don't wake me up that much anymore my bladder has decided to take over.

3. Which decade would you choose to exemplify your favorite fashion styles?

I prefer to dress in the current decade and style because dressing in dated fashions looks ... dated. The real question is, are we at the end of one decade or the beginning of another one?

4. What is your personal best dish to feed a crowd?

That would be the bucket of chicken I get from KFC. I've never messed one up yet.

5. Are you an impulse shopper? What was the last thing you bought on impulse?

A colon cleanser. Don't ask.

6. What is one wish you have for your own funeral?

I'll wish I weren't dead.

7. If it's true that joy is in found in the simple things in life, what does your joy look like today?

Joy is my pillow. Happiness is my blanket. Sheer and unutterable bliss is my bed. You decide: am I lyrical or just tired?

8. What is your favorite type of bread?

The kind you get when you make a lot of dough.

9. What trait do you fear developing the most? (Laziness, greediness, grumpiness, etc.)

The wording of this question assumes I have not already developed those traits.

10. What trait would you like most to develop?

Which trait would I like to develop out of laziness, greediness or grumpiness? Actually, I think I've got them all down pat.

11. Which room in your house best reflects your personality? Why?

The laundry room. I've got some great equipment in there with a lot of potential, but it's often lost under the every day reality of dirty laundry.

12. How do you maintain balance in your life regarding, work, family, church, other organizations and activities, and blogging?

If you know me at all, you know that I don't balance any of it very well. It's one mad scramble to keep all those plates spinning on their sticks.


Now hurry and write a comment before you head over to Lid's. You know you want to!

Enquiring Minds Want to Know!

Here are a dozen random questions for me to answer. Oh, but wait! You can answer them too! Answer in the comments if you want, but then go here and link up with Lid to answer the questions on your own blog. Don't have a blog? Leave comments anyway! It gives my life more meaning!

1. Ever had any run-ins with the "library police?"

No, but we've had a few problems with the Yard Nazis. Apparently we don't cut our grass enough. Or weed the flower beds completely. Or edge the lawns properly. And our garbage cans are too close to the curbs. And our shades are not turned at the right angles. And ... you get the picture.

2. Do you have a special organizational plan and place for wrapping paper, gift bags, etc., or do you just purchase whatever you need as you give gifts?
I have a Rubbermaid container used specifically for wrapping paper and various other items. And I have a few totes in which I store gift boxes and gift bags. The problem is, I can't find the totes when I need them so I end up buying more paper anyway. Or things get crammed into the totes wrong and get crumpled and I end up buying new boxes and bags. I think I'm due for a visit from the Wrapping Paper Nazi.

3. Have you ever been in (first-hand witness) a natural disaster?
Every morning when I try to do my hair.

4. What's your favorite Barry Manilow song?
Is he the really old guy that has had so much plastic surgery that the sides of his face meet in the back of his head? Or is he the other really old guy that had so much plastic surgery that the sides of his face meet in the back of his head? I have trouble telling them apart.  (I like Weekend in New England. But don't tell anyone.) 

5. What's the best costume you've ever worn?
Sometimes I dress up and pretend I'm a cook. But the finished product always gives me away. (Seriously, one time I went to a party dressed as a television. Think cardboard box and wire hangers. It wasn't my best moment.)

6. Which do you use more often, the dictionary or the thesaurus?
That would depend on whether I'm looking for a definition or a synonym, wouldn't it? (Said in a snooty, I-know-my-grammar-rules voice.)

7. What's your favorite breakfast food?
A chocolate milkshake. Of course, I don't get one for breakfast because that would be foolish, but really, can you think of anything better for breakfast? 


I didn't think so.

8. Have you ever purchased anything from an infomercial?
Are you kidding? Check back with me in a month. I'll have slimmer abs in 8 minutes a day, and be turning out delicious chopped, diced and sliced fruit and vegetable plates at all my parties. And my hair will shine almost luminously with the extract from a horse's mane that's been turned into a shampoo. And I won't have any zits, either.


Actually, I don't have any zits now, but I got carried away with the claims.

9. Have you ever crawled through a window?
No, but I flew through one once. Two words:  multiple stitches.

10. Do you believe in love at first sight?
I experienced love at first sight the first time I saw each of my newborn babies. (I know! I know! How atypical of me to get sentimental! I shocked myself.)

11. How man pairs of jeans do you own?
I don't own any. Now if you'd asked me how many pairs I wash? Hundreds, my dear. Hundreds.

12. If someone were going to bake a cake to honor/represent you, what would it be? (Think creatively, like Duff and Crew on "Ace of Cakes.")
If a cake were going to represent me, it would probably be missing a few ingredients. And it would also arrive twenty minutes late. And by the way, don't you think most of those people on that show look a little ahem! scruffy to be working in a kitchen? I like their creations, but I'm not sure I'd be in a big hurry to eat them. Just sayin'.

If It's Wednesday ...

... it must be Random Dozen Day!

Okay, you know the drill. Read the questions. Laugh at the answers. (Or nod thoughtfully if I happen to get really insightful.) Leave a comment. Then click the link and head over to 2nd Cup of Coffee to read other answers.

1. How do you feel about "Gladiator" sandals, also called "Roman" or "Jesus" sandals? A fashion yea or nay?

Love 'em, love 'em, love 'em as long as they come without the whole facing-the-lions-in-the-coliseum thing.

2. What is your favorite pizza?

I like The Works from Papa John's. (That's right, folks, it's a serious answer! And probably as insightful as I'll get all day.)

3. There are plans in the works to sell roughly 1,000 items from Star Trek: The Experience in Las Vegas. This means you could buy Picard's chair for your family room. If not a Star Trek item, what prop, background, set, etc. from what TV or movie would you buy if you could?
[Ex: Hurley's "I Love my Shih tzu" shirt from LOST, the plantation home "Tara" from Gone With the Wind, or Tracy's tambourine from the Partridge Family.]

I think I'd really like Barney Fife's bullet or the ottoman Dick Van Dyke always tripped over. Maybe I could display the bullet on the ottoman. Right next to a jar of Aunt Bee's pickles.

4. Name a local food or restaurant that your area is famous for.

Anything with Mickey Mouse ears.

5. What is your current favorite snack?

I would love to have a big, soft pretzel from Aunt Annies, washed down with a lemonade from Chik-fil-a and then topped off with a mocha frappe from McDonalds. But since I'm dieting, I usually reach for an apple or some yogurt.

6. Hypothetical: You are required to be a reality show contestant. Which show would you choose based on your probability of success? (You cannot choose "none.")

A. Dancing with the Stars
B. Biggest Loser
C. Survivor

I would start my own reality show called, Can I Have Some Estrogen, Please? The show features a woman living with all male relatives while trying to maintain some semblance of femininity in her life. The show will end when she finally gains possession of the remote control.

7. On a scale of 1-10, with 1 being uninhabitable and 10 being cleanliness that meets the standards of OCD, how clean is your vehicle's interior?

Cleaner than my garage, but not as clean as my house. (Which is still not saying much!)

8. It doesn't feel like Spring until _________.

---it pokes up through the couch cushion.

9. Something that made you laugh really hard recently is ____.

Paul's idea of encouragement. While on a bike ride with his younger brother he was heard yelling, "You want some of that ice cream that's in the freezer? You gotta earn it! Pedal faster!" 

10. Tell me about a goal you're working toward.

Two words:  toned and tanned. Okay, well really it's probably closer to losing weight and getting a little sunburned, but a girl can dream, can't she?

11. Share a thought-provoking or inspiring quote this week.

Always forgive your enemies; nothing annoys them so much - Oscar Wilde.

12. Name one thing that you do as a parent that you absolutely know will make your kids happy. If you're not a parent, feel free to substitute "friend" or nomenclature that works for you.

Letting them sleep in; giving them ice cream for breakfast; taking them for all-you-can-eat pancakes at IHOP ... don't you wish I was your mom? (If you're my age, please don't say yes because then I will be depressed all day!)

Randomly April

Would you look at the time! It's random dozen again over at 2nd Cup of Coffee. Read my answers, then click on the link to read other answers and link up with your own. And make sure you leave some comments because people always like comments.

1. Define a great relationship.

Batman and Robin. They were always there for each other, they had each other's back and they worked well as a team. The yellow tights would have been a deal-breaker for me, but apparently Robin was able to get past them.

2. Why is it called a "drive-through" if you have to stop? (Real question: What was the last food/drink you purchased at a drive-through?)

I actually wanted a mocha frappe from McDonald's last night so I pulled into the line. But then there were almost a dozen cars in the drive-through, and none of them were moving, so I pulled out and went home. I still want a frappe.

3. As I type this, the Butler Bulldogs are getting ready to play in the NCAA championship game. Every Hoosier is hysterical about this except me. So in honor of the Bulldogs ... what is your favorite breed of dog? (I tried.)

I always thought St. Bernards were kind of cool. And so handy to have around if you got lost and injured in the mountains.

4. If you had to move to a state besides the one you currently live in, where would you move?

I am fundamentally against moving because I hate packing and unpacking. So I guess I'll have to stick to living in paradise.

5. If you could change anything about the way you were raised, what would it be?

I would have driven a car that didn't always die in the middle of Lake Street and Fifth Avenue. Kind of a dangerous intersection for a stalled car.

6. Who's the funniest person you know?

Do you mean actually know? Or just know of? Because I've never actually met the Lumberjack's Wife, but I know her through blogging and she is usually pretty funny. Her last post had to do with a lot of bodily fluids, and it was really hysterical.

7. Did you get enough sleep last night?

Hahahahahahahahahahahaha! Wait, what was the question?

8. What's the first thing you thought about this morning?

Time to make the donuts. Okay, that's from that old Dunkin Donuts commercial, but that really is what I think sometimes when the alarm goes off. Small wonder I have trouble dieting!

9. Grilled or Fried? --HONESTLY

I would prefer to be neither, but thanks for asking.

10. Are you afraid of the dark?

Not if there's a light on.

11.When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

A wife and mother. Hey, look at me! I'm livin' the dream!

12. If you had one word to describe yourself , what would you choose?

Does it have to be a word that actually describes me or just a word that I would like to use to describe me? Because I like the words "rich" and "beautiful", but there not actually words that are usually associated with me. Hey, I've got an idea! In the comments, why don't you leave a word that you think describes me?


Okay, ready? set? Link! (Wait a minute! What about your comments?!)

Chicken Little Random

For this week's Random Dozen, go here to link up with Lid and read more great answers. Then do your own. Hey, wait! Don't forget to read mine (and comment on them!) first.

1. How do you feel about the marshmallow Easter Peeps?
They never call. They never write. They show up once a year. I think I'd call them fair-weather friends.

2. Chickens are notoriously nervous creatures. When you are nervous, what is the best way to calm down?
Scratch a little in the dirt and then crow a few times.

3. People say, "April showers bring May flowers." Do you enjoy Spring rains?
Fall rainy days are cool. The wind is chilly, and it's a perfect day to curl up indoors with a good book and a blanket in front of a roaring fire with soup simmering on the stove. Spring rains bring mud. 

4. When I was randomly flipping through TV channels this week, I saw a show in which tattoo parlor employees received tattoos of a co-worker's face on their bodies. I can't imagine having a portrait of a colleague tattooed on me. But if someone forced you to receive a portrait tattoo (face only) of anyone, who would it be? Why?
I imagine if someone was forcing me to get a tattoo, they probably already have a face in mind. And I hope they have a little sedation as well because needles are not exactly my favorite things.

5. Would you rather have a tattoo (any kind) or a nose ring?
That depends on which gang I'm joining. But then again, if I'm in a fight, no one can grab the tattoo and give it a yank. Can't say the same for a nose ring. 

6. Do you have any special plans for Easter?
Oh, just making egg-shaped Easter cards, and then sitting out in the egg patch waiting for the Great Egg, decorating the egg tree, then eating the roast chicken with egg stuffing, followed by watching the pastel fireworks. You know--same ol', same ol'.

7. Cadbury Eggs or Reese Eggs?
I prefer to keep my candy separate from my eggs. Eggs go with bacon.

8. What was the last thing/person you took a picture of?
I'm not telling until I hear back from America's Most Wanted.

9. What book are you reading now, or what was the last one?
How to Win Friends and Influence People. Is it working?

10. What do you think is the most difficult task when it comes to Spring cleaning?
Doing it.

11. How many pairs of flip-flops do you own?
You said "pairs", right? I don't know, but I have a great collection of single flip-flops that have lost their mates. I'm thinking of starting a support group.

12. Which color makes you happiest?
It depends on what item is being colored.  Pink accents in clothing? Good. Decorating? Bad. Pepto Bismol pink? Only in medicine. Green in clothing and decorating? Good. In food? Usually means you need to throw it away. It's all a matter of perspective.


Okay, now hurry over to Linda's and read some more great answers. And then go eat Easter candy. You know you want some.