Demographics are destiny

I spent today in the town I grew up in (aka, the town I left). I got my hair cut and then I walked to the train (cheaper than a cab) and found myself in the thick of the village's Halloween celebration.

The costumes were soooo different than in my town! Today I saw lots of superheroes and soldiers with sabres and guns. I didn't realize how unpopular weapons are in my very PC community until I encountered little boys brandishing them. And, to be fair, one little girl, who was in full police regalia -- including badge, hat and gun. Here in my town, even the ninjas were unarmed.

The towns are 20 minutes -- and a lifestyle -- apart.

Saturday 9

Saturday 9: If It Makes You Happy

Sheryl Crow is a breast cancer survivor and October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Please spread the word about early detection.

1) What's something that always makes you happy? I'm with the late Mr. Gorey. I have books and cats, so life is good.

 
2) In the lyrics, Sheryl refers to a poncho. How do you usually protect yourself from the rain? Poncho? Umbrella? Raincoat? Hat? Umbrellas. I carry one with me almost all the time. And I am forever losing them.

3) Early in her career, Sheryl made ends meet by singing commercial jingles, including one for McDonald's. When was the last time you visited The Golden Arches? I had Burger King for lunch on Friday, but I think it's been months since I've been to Mickey D's.

4) Sheryl rode a horse into the ring of a Wyoming rodeo and then sang. Have you ever been to a rodeo? Once. NEVER AGAIN. It was awful. I know there are animal rights zealots out there who decry zoos but their ire is misplaced. Zoos do important research and protect endangered species. Rodeos exploit animals and cause them discomfort and anxiety for our "entertainment."

 
5) Sheryl lives outside of Nashville, which is known as Music City. What type of music do you listen to most often? The kind of music that soothes the soul.

 
Some of Tom Cruise's offscreen behavior has been so bizarre that it's easy to forget what a wonderful onscreen presence he can be. I so love the moment when he flips up his collar.

6) Crazy Sam is a massive Sheryl Crow fan, and is sure that the only reason why she and Sheryl aren't best friends is that they haven't met. What famous person do you think could be your BFF? Jennifer Aniston. I think she's adorable and probably a lot more fun than that icky Angelina.


7) Sheryl and cyclist Lance Armstrong were once engaged. Had they tied the knot, she would have become stepmother to his three children. Are you a step-parent, stepsibling or stepchild? Nope.

8) Sheryl has performed carols at the National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony in Washington DC. Have you ever visited our nation's capital? Not for years. I'd love to go back. I remember how beautiful the Jefferson Memorial was at dusk. Those monuments can really take your breath away.


9) Do you consider yourself easy going or do you have a fiery temperament? Depends on the situation.