Happy Birthday to Me, Parts 5 and 6

Yesterday was my actual birthday. First celebrated with coworkers at the Wildberry Pancake House, and I had eggs benedict. Then my friend John took me to Italian Village, Chicago's oldest landmark Italian restaurant (open since 1927).

He also got me Barbra Streisand's coffee table book about her home -- something I love having but could not justify purchasing for myself. As he said, that makes it the perfect gift.

Things have slowed at work somewhat -- the calm before the storm. So I'm burning off some of my remaining vacation days (Wednesday through Thursday). Yea!

I say a little prayer for you

The anniversary of President Kennedy's death was yesterday, my birthday. Because this dramatic event felt like it happened to me personally, it had a tremendous impact on me. I began learning about the man who ruined my 6th birthday and came away with a hero.

From studying about JFK, I developed a lifelong love of reading and joy of discovery. I came to appreciate his dispassionate approach to conflict -- it was never personal -- even as I find myself unable to emulate it. I appreciate his appreciation of language. I admire his physical courage and his grace under pressure. I learned the valuable lesson that great men are not necessarily good men. Most of all, I admire the elegant and sophisticated way his mind worked, the way the idealism melded with pragmatism.

So amidst all the celebration of my 54th birthday, I want to take a moment to remember the man who became a part of my life on my 6th birthday and taught me so many wonderful things. It's humbling to realize God has given me more time than he got.

Why, you'd think I'm a Cub fan or something!

Happy Birthday to me, Part 4: Celebrating with my mom and my nephew. My mom got me a Cub garden gnome (who knew there was such a thing!) and a retrospective of all my heroes who wore the uniform (Few and Chosen). We talked a moment about our favorite Cub players -- Grandma Ruth (no longer with us) loooooved her Ryno (Ryne Sandberg), my mother's favorite was Fergie Jenkins, my nephew can't decide between D Lee or Mr. Cub, Ernie Banks, and I, of course, still claim my beloved future Hall-of-Famer, Greg Maddux, as my fave rave. We are Cub fans. It's who we are. And it has been acknowledged that since my grandmother died, I am the one who now most proudly waves the banner.

My nephew, God bless him, contributed $10 of his own money to my Facebook birthday cause. I was touched.

We had pizza and my favorite, mint chocolate chip ice cream. It was a lovely afternoon.

Happy Birthday to me, Part 3

Lou Mitchell's with Kathy. Thirty years ago -- yes, 30 years ago! -- when Kathy, John and I first started hanging around together, we used to visit this Chicago institution all the time. It's not so much that the food is great (it's absolutely fine, hearty breakfast fare), it's the other stuff. The "circus" aspect of the "bread and circus" that makes it famous. If you're stuck in the line* that often stretches around the block in all weather, the owner comes by with a Longaberger basket filled with donut holes. As you're seated, you're presented with a tiny box of Milk Duds. Every meal is served with a slice of orange and a prune, and everyone gets a tiny cup of softserve ice cream (always vanilla) for dessert. I do not know the derivation of any of these traditions. I just know they began before my merry little band of friends began going there, and have continued without us.

I was thrilled that Kathy was willing to drive in to the city on Sunday to celebrate my birthday. In addition to a pecan waffle, she got me a satin pillow case. I had mentioned once to her that the folds of my pillow case stayed stuck into my face for a while when I first wake up, one of the signs of aging I really hate. This way, I won't be reminded of being ancient every morning. I was touched that she remembered.

I wasn't so thrilled that I somehow chipped one of my molars. I don't know if I chipped it, or if the valiant old tooth just gave out. No matter, it was an unwelcome sign of impending decay, during my otherwise happy birthday celebration, no less!

*And I wasn't, because I'm the Birthday Girl! As soon as took our place at the end of the line, among tourists and families in after-church attire, the owner called out, "Anyone need a table for 2?" Amazingly, we were the only table for two in line. Yea!

So this means the Recession is over!

Must be, since all anyone who doesn't have a job has to do is "go out and get one." Good to know. Thanks for sharing, Newt.

TV Addict's Meme

Liberated from Kwizgiver

1. Name a TV show series in which you've seen every episode at least twice: The Dick Van Dyke Show

2. Name a show you couldn't miss: Mad Men

3. Name an actor that would make you more inclined to watch a show: Ted Danson

4. Name an actor who would make you less likely to watch a show: Roseanne

5. Name a show you can, and do, quote from: Friends

6. Name a show you like that no one else that you know enjoys: Chicago Tonight on the local PBS station.

7. Name a TV show which you’ve been known to sing the theme song: Friends, The Brady Bunch, The Beverly Hillbillies, Gilligan's Island, The Mary Tyler Moore, That Girl

8. Name a show you would recommend everyone to watch: Morning Joe on MSNBC

9. Name a TV series you own: That Girl

10. Name an actor who launched his/her entertainment career in another medium, but has surprised you with his/her acting choices in television: Sarah Jessica Parker. She was initially so resistant to playing Carrie!

11. What is your favorite episode of one your favorite series? Friends -- The One with the Prom Video. "He's her lobster!"

12. Name a show you keep meaning to watch, but you just haven’t gotten around to yet. Prime Suspect

13. Ever quit watching a show because it was so bad? Gray's Anatomy Haven't watched it since George died and/or Izzie saved the deer. (Can't remember which came first)

14. Name a show that’s made you cry multiple times: thirtysomething

15. What do you eat when you watch TV? I've always got the TV on, so everything

16. How often do you watch TV? See above

17. What’s the last TV show you watched? A rerun of Alfred Hitchcock Presents

18. What’s your favorite/preferred genre of TV? News

19. What was the first TV show you were obsessed with? Batman!

20. What TV show do you wish you never watched? Can't think of anything

21. What’s the weirdest show you enjoyed? Suze Orman

22. What was the single most memorable program you ever saw on TV? The Lads with Ed Sullivan

23. What TV show scared you the most? Twilight Zone

24. What is the funniest TV show you have ever watched? Friends

25. What show was canceled too early into its run? Cybill. Christine Baranski's MaryAnn was fantastic.

Bring a hero home

Carl is currently serving in Afghanistan …

From the Soldier: Appreciate your assistance.

"Carl is a male cat on our outpost and a favorite of all. As a kitten he made friends with everyone and has brought immeasurable cheer to all around him. The roughest-toughest infantrymen were no match for his charm and affability. Whether he accompanies people as they walk around the outpost, plays with toys constructed specially for him or sits amiably in one's lap, Carl raises morale like none other. Even those who profess to dislike cats have been caught secretly petting, feeding and doting on young Carl. He has been known to kill camel spiders and scorpions in defense of his two-legged friends and has become an international superstar as families back home have heard about him and sent treats back our way for him. As there is a new policy in place that forbids pets and mascots it is our sincerest wish to get our friend Carl home safe to the United States. Thanks so much for willing to help us out.

I am hoping to get home to our 1SG's house, where a loving family is already ready for his arrival. 1SG's children eagerly question him about Carl every time
he contacts home and I know they would be super delighted if Carl could indeed become part of their family.

Thanks again, this means so much. No Way is Carl going to be left behind! Lets Rally the Troops and get Carl to the 1SG's children in The Land of the Free, BECAUSE of the BRAVE!

Thank You for your service Soldiers! It is because of men and women like you that we live in the Land of the Free. LETS GET CARL HOME!!!

The Puppy Rescue Mission, Inc
"Soldiers Saving Puppies~Puppies Saving Soldiers"
Non Profit 501(c)(3) Organization

All donations are Tax Deductible to the fullest extent of the law. Please use your paypal receipt as proof of donation. Send all requests to tax@thepuppyrescuemission.org if you desire to have a year end receipt.
http://www.thepuppyrescuemission.org/

Checks can be mailed to:
The Puppy Rescue Mission
PO Box 1516
Celina, Texas 75009
Note animal on your check.

If you need to request a rescue please send an email to rescues@thepuppyrescuemission.org

Demoralized

My coworker, the chocolate-covered spider, is just always absolutely right and I am just always absolutely wrong. It's not even 6:30 AM and I already have given up on the workday. I don't even want to get in the shower to get the day started because I know what today is going to be like.

It's my birthday season. The Cubs have a new manager. I don't have cancer. I should be dancing on air, but I'm not.

I really need to start taking my 1.5 week's worth of vacation days. My boss seems to think my presence is required but I'm not sure why. After all, I'm just always absolutely wrong.

Happy Birthday to Me, Part 2

Wednesday night, my theater-going bud Barb and I celebrated my Big Day with former Governor Ann Richards. Yes, she's dead, but Barb and I would never let anything that small get in our way.

We saw Ann, the one-woman play starring Holland Taylor, in its pre-Broadway run here in Chicago. I admired Gov. Richards (and wonder how different America would be if she had defeated W. in her bid re-election). It was very affectionate and entertaining, but perhaps a bit long -- or maybe it just seemed long because the theater was so warm I was actually getting drowsy!

She took me to dinner beforehand at Rosebud Prime, a steakhouse she frequents because she's friends with the piano player. Barb knows how I love a good slice o' meat and how appreciative I was of the huge hamper of Omaha Steaks she sent me as a get well gift.

We have been friends for more than 15 years. The older I get, the more I appreciate how lucky I am to have shared history with so many!

Thursday Thirteen #146

THIRTEEN THINGS ABOUT
NICK AND NORA CHARLES

My local movie theater recently celebrated its 75th anniversary but presenting some of the films it screened when it first opened in 1936. This week I had the pleasure of seeing After the Thin Man on the big screen and was reminded again how delightful William Powell and Myrna Loy were as Nick and Nora Charles.

I'm also happy to report that the theater was packed, and I saw lots of people under 35 in the audience. It's wonderful that the wit and glamor of Nick and Nora are still appreciated by so many!

1) Nick and Nora Charles were created by Dashiell Hammett in his novel, The Thin Man.

2) They are a classic case of opposites attract: Nick is a successful private detective from New York, famous for helping the coppers send bad guys up the river; his wife, Nora, is an heiress from San Francisco who is completely charmed by all the lovely, colorful characters Nick meets through his work.

3) Nick is very open about insisting that, now that he has Nora for her married money, he is retired from crime busting. Their back-and-forth is never offensive because it's obvious he loves her so, and that she believes he's her Prince Charming for rescuing her from her pretentious society life in California.

4) They have a funny, much loved and very badly behaved dog named Asta. Skippy, the dog that played Asta, had a great deal of attitude and once tried to take a chunk out of Myrna Loy.

5) They had a son, Nick, Jr., in the third movie, Another Thin Man.

6) The Charles' often traveled by train, and made sharing a compartment seem sexy, not cramped.

7) There were six Thin Man movies between 1934 and 1947. Loy and Powell also performed as Nick and Nora on the radio. Peter Lawford played Nick for two seasons on the Thin Man TV series.

8) The first Thin Man movie was shot in a matter of weeks. MGM was surprised and thrilled that it became such a fan favorite.

9) Just starting out in movies, James Stewart had a supporting role as Nora's old friend David in the second movie, After the Thin Man.

10) The Russell Brand/Dudley Moore story Arthur owes a lot to Nick and Nora, who were both known to toss back a drink or two.

11) TV's Hart to Hart and Moonlighting were inspired by the banter and adventures of Nick and Nora.

12) Johnny Depp wants to be Nick in the remake to be directed by Rob Marshall (Chicago). No Nora has been suggested yet. (Though I'd like to see Kate Winslet in the role.)

13) MGM's Dolly Tree was in charge of wardrobe, and she did a fantastic job. Nora's clothes -- backless evening wear, flowing dressing gowns, tailored coats -- are beautiful, even in black and white. We know Ms. Tree was versatile because she also did the clothes for the Marx Brothers A Night at the Opera, which were no where near as elegant. I wonder what it was like for a woman to build a career for herself in the 1930s ....

For more about the Thursday 13,
or to play along yourself, click here.

I Want Wednesday

I want to not let the chocolate-covered spider get to me so much. I don't have cancer. Looked at through that prism, her hijinks really don't matter that much. Or they shouldn't.

An Officer and a Kook

I went to a wine tasting, a charity affair for the United Way, in Tribune Tower with a friend who works for the paper. We found ourselves in the original suite of offices of Col. McCormick, who was publisher when the building was completed in 1925.

Col. McCormick was not only wealthy and courageous (a decorated veteran), he was also a dedicated newspaperman (an original sponsor of the Medill School of Journalism) and one of our first right wing nut jobs. For example, he opposed FDR and was isolationist during WWII. He also opposed prohibition and was outspoken in his criticism of "gangsters," back when that was a common job description in Chicago.

Every one of his stands was controversial and Col. McCormick managed to piss just about everyone off during his time at the helm of the Tribune. He knew it, and had escape routes built into his office. There are secret doors behind the paneling, just like in an Agatha Christie novel, some that lead to staircases that eventually led down to the street level.

It was paranoid and impractical, but completely cool and I'm glad I got to see it.

Happy Birthday to me, Part 1

My first gift has rolled in. This poetry book arrived, a gift from my cousin Rose. I haven't read poetry in decades, but I will read this.

God, I love my bday!

Cinema Survey

I'm not sure how I found this survey. I clicked on a link that took me to a link and ... But it's from Noodle in a Haystock. If you're a movie lover and you play along, let Amanda (head noodle) know.

Cinema Survey: My Answers

1. What is your favorite movie starring William Powell and Myrna Loy, excluding all of The Thin Man films? The Great Ziegfeld.

2. Name a screen team that appeared in only one film together but are still noteworthy for how well they complimented each other. Streisand and Redford. Katie and Hubbell. I'm glad The Way We Were was their only film together. It's possible that the potency of their pairing might have lost its sizzle if overexposed. (And that concludes what must be, at the very least, the 20th mention of The Way We Were on this blog.)

3. Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers' best film together? I'm not a Fred Astaire fan. Just not. I'm Team Gene all the way. I'll banish myself to the corner now.

4. Your favorite actor named "Robert"? Redford.

5. An actor/actress who, when you see one of their movies, you always wish that someone else was in his/her role? Liza Minnelli. Except for Sterile Cuckoo, I'd recast all her movies. Yes, even Cabaret.

6. An actor/actress that someone close to you really loves that you can't stand or vice versa? My friend Barb completely adores Clint Eastwood. While I love the movies he's directed, his Dirty Harry/Man with No Name persona leaves me completely cold.

7. An actor/actress that you both agree on completely? Paul Newman.

8. Complete this sentence: Virginia O'Brien is to Ethel Merman as... Carole Lombard is to Ann-Margret.

9. What is your favorite film starring Ray Milland? The Thing with Two Heads. Hey! I was watching it with a group of girlfriends and there was liquor involved! Don't judge me.

10. You had to have seen this one coming: what is your favorite movie of the 1960s? Bonnie and Clyde.

11. An actor/actress that you would take out of one film and put into a different movie that was released the same year? (People who were not in any pictures that year are allowed, too.) I'd replace Glenn Close in The Natural with Susan Sarandon. She had a preternatural maturity and stiffness that made the romance between Iris and Roy seem less compelling than the one between Roy and Memo, and I think it threw the balance of the movie off. Susan Sarandon and Redford had more chemistry in their limited pairing in The Great Waldo Pepper. She was wasting her time that year (1984) in a Richard Dreyfuss movie called The Buddy System.

12. Who was your favorite of Robert Montgomery's leading ladies? Audrey Totter from Lady in the Lake. I admit I had to look up her name on imdb.com. I just remember her as Adrienne, the blonde lady who really knows how to "make love to the camera."

13. You think it would have been a disaster (or, at least, not as good) if what movie starred the actor/actress who was originally asked to star in it? Cher as Thelma in Thelma and Louise.

14. An actor/actress who you will watch in any or almost any movie? Judy Garland. Even her less-than-successful work is fascinating to watch.

15. Your favorite Leslie Howard film and role? Intermezzo. Another one of those great films from 1939.

16. You have been asked to host a marathon of four Barbara Stanwyck films. Which ones do you choose? Stella Dallas, The Lady Eve, Christmas in Connecticut, Double Indemnity. I think that quartet represents how versatile the old girl was.

17. What is, in your mind, the nearest to perfect comedy you have ever seen? Why? A Night at the Opera. Of course Groucho's Otis B. Driftwood is sublime. (Margaret Dumont: Get off my bed! What would people say?/Driftwood: That you're a very lucky woman.) Harpo is lyrical as always. But this is one of the few movies where Chico really shines. He has a fantastic monologue as a stowaway pretending to be an aviator. And there's the drippy love story that every Marx Bros. movie was required to have, but this time it's with Kitty Carlisle, so it's a bit more interesting.

18. You will brook no criticism of what film? The Godfather.

19. Who is your favorite Irish actress? Maureen O'Hara. The Quiet Man.

20. Your favorite 1940s movie starring Ginger Rogers? Stage Door. I know it was the 1930s, but it's got Hepburn and Lucille Ball, so it stays my answer.

21. Do you enjoy silent movies? No.

22. What is your favorite Bette Davis film? All About Eve. A wonderful performance in a very nearly perfect film.

23. Your favorite onscreen Hollywood couple? Myrna Loy and William Powell.

24. This one is for the girls, but, of course, the guys are welcome to answer, too: who is your favorite Hollywood costume designer? Helen Rose. Those wedding dresses in High Society and Father of the Bride!

25. To even things out a bit, here's something the boys will enjoy: what is your favorite tough action film? Die Hard

26. You are currently gaining a greater appreciation for which actor(s)/actress(es)? Frank Sinatra. No, really. I enjoy his work as a serious actor. I appreciate that he was good enough to sublimate his powerful celebrity persona in movies as diverse as Young at Heart and The Detective.

27. Franchot Tone: yes or no? Eh.

28. Which actors and/or actresses do you think are underrated? Natalie Wood. With the 50th anniversary of West Side Story, I hear her bashed as "just" a movie star, and that's unfair. When she was good, in her high-wattage performances, she was great. And Gail Patrick. She helped make My Man Godfrey and Stage Door, and then went on to produce Perry Mason!

29. Which actors and/or actresses do you think are overrated? James Dean. Brando, Clift and Newman were all better.

30. Favorite actor? Redford.

31. Favorite actress? Katharine Hepburn.

32. Of those listed, who is the coolest: Paul Newman, Robert Redford, Steve McQueen, or Patrick Stewart? Paul Newman. He's not only the coolest of this quartet, he's the coolest guy in the universe.

33. What is your favorite movie from each of these genres:

Comedy: Animal House

Swashbuckler: Don't have one. Sorry

Film noir: Laura

Musical: A Star is Born (Garland, of course)

Holiday: Young at Heart, because it includes both Christmas and Easter, making it holiday-appropriate twice a year

Hitchcock: Psycho or Rope

Thanks for reading, and don't forget to take the survey yourself. I can't wait to read your answers!

It really is very good

I like Clint Eastwood's work as a director more than I ever did the movies he starred in. Likewise I think Leonardo di Caprio is the real deal, a serious actor with loads of charisma. Then there's the tension of their personal lives -- Eastwood is a conservative and Leo is liberal. So I was eager to see their collaboration, and what they did was J. Edgar.

I thoroughly enjoyed it. The movie portrays Hoover as a twisted patriot, a man of grand vision and amazing pettiness. He had no social skills but was capable of deep love and loyalty. He had great passion but was unable to act on it. It's all on display here.

While the movie doesn't whitewash Hoover's legacy, the director is portrayed as a sympathetic character because of Leo's commitment. He's thrown himself into this part completely and he takes us along.

Sunday Stealing

Sunday Stealing: The Madness Meme, Part 2

Cheers to all of us thieves!

23. Do you ever walk around the house naked? Yes. As far you know, I'm naked right now as I meme.

24. If you were an animal what would you be? Why? An okapi because they are both placid and rare.

25. Hair color you like on someone you’re dating? I don't know that I care much, as long as it's shiny and touchable.

26. If suffering an injury, would you rather be left blind or deaf? Deaf. But I'd prefer neither.

27. Do you have any special talents? I can wiggle my right ear.

28. What do you do as soon as you walk in the house? Drop my keys into the basket.

29. Do you like horror or comedy? Comedy.

30. Are you missing anyone? Yes

31. Where do you want to live when you are old? Here

32. Who is the person you can count on the most? Depends on the situation

33. If you could date any celebrity past or present, who would it be? Robert Redford, ca 1975

34. What did you dream last night? I don't recall it

35. What is your favorite sport to watch? Cubs baseball. (Do you really have to ask?)

36. Are you named after anyone? No

37. What is your favorite alcoholic drink? Vodka

38. Non alcoholic drink? Coke

39. Have you ever been in love? Yes.

40. Do you sing in the shower? Yes, badly

41. Have you ever been arrested? No

42. What is your favorite Holiday? My birthday!

43. Would you ever get plastic surgery? Surgery? No. Injectables, perhaps.

44. Have you ever caught a fish? A tiny green one when I was little. I felt bad about it.

Saturday 9

Saturday 9: How Long

1. Have your discovered a betrayal? If so, did you ask, “How long has THIS been going on?" Yes, and yes.

2. What is the longest line you've ever stood in? Would you do it again? To get OUT of the Ravinia Music Festival. And no, I never want to do it again.

3. Someone has hung a sign around your neck, and you have to wear it all day long. What does it say? "Doesn't play well with others."

4. As the Christmas season approaches, what song is it that you just can't wait to hear? River, written by Joni Mitchell.

5. What Christmas song do you dread to hear? Grandma Got Runover by a Reindeer

6. How often do you read the last chapter of a book first? Never

7. Do you have a favorite movie that you just love to see each year during the holidays? Die Hard. It is SO a holiday movie!

8. Do you enjoy winter in the area that you live? Yes. I don't want a warm-weather Christmas.

9. At holiday I think we all show more kindness. In your opinion, is this a “concept” that has value (like money or other tangible things) or does it exist as simply emotion? Why? Well, it is worth a lot of money to retailers. But I also believe it's a simple yet powerful emotion. Chicagoans tend to be happier and more friendly in the winter (and surlier in the summer when it's hot and humid).

Sorry, Blog!

I have not been posting here, nor checking other blogs, anywhere near as often this month. Partly because I've been kinda sorta busy at work -- or perhaps it's more accurate to say I've been distracted and angry at work. Partly because I have a lot of snail mail letters to write -- personal to family, and then the ones related to my refi and my upcoming vacation. Partly because I have been going out again, spending more time with friends (this week was John and Kathleen).

But mostly because of Nanowrimo. National Novel Writing Month. When I have free time for writing (meaning writing doesn't HAVE to be done), I return to my poor heroine, Margaret. I'm at over 10,000 words!

Thursday Thirteen #145

THIRTEEN GREATEST
MOVIE CHARACTERS
OF ALL TIME

Premiere Magazine did the original fun (but almost completely subjective) list. Being my own Gal, I didn't necessarily agree with their ranking, so I reworked it somewhat. (It took me to their #25 to create this 13.)

1. Don Corleone (Marlon Brando). The Godfather. 1972 I'm gonna make him an offer he can't refuse.

2. Scarlett O'Hara (Vivian Leigh). Gone with the Wind. 1939 Fiddle-dee-dee!

3. Norman Bates (Anthony Perkins). Psycho. 1960 I wouldn't hurt a fly.

4. Annie Hall (Diane Keaton). Annie Hall. 1977. Seems like old times, having you to walk with ...

5. Jeff Spicoli (Sean Penn). Fast Times at Ridgemont High. 1982. Sitting around, learning about Cuba and having some food.

6. Margo Channing (Bette Davis). All About Eve. 1950. Fasten your seatbelts. It's going to be a bumpy night.

7. Charles Foster Kane (Orson Welles.) Citizen Kane. 1941. Rosebud.

8. Atticus Finch (Gregory Peck). To Kill a Mockingbird. 1962. It is a sin to kill a mockingbird because they do nothing but create beautiful music for the enjoyment of others and to kill it would be killing an innocent creature ...

9. Dorothy Gale (Judy Garland). The Wizard of Oz. 1939. If happy little bluebirds fly beyond the rainbow, why, oh why, can't I?

10. Rick Blaine (Humphrey Bogart). Casablanca. 1942. The problems of three little people don't amount to a hill of beans in this crazy world.

11. Susan Vance (Katharine Hepburn). Bringing Up Baby. 1938. Isn't this fun, David?

12. Travis Bickle (Robert DeNiro). Taxi Driver. 1976. You talkin' to me?

13. Gordon Gekko (Michael Douglas). Wall Street. 1987. Greed is good.

Now here are some of my personal favorites who didn't make Premiere's top 25.

Katie Morosky (Barbra Streisand). The Way We Were. 1973. You'll never find anyone as good for you as I am, to believe in you as much as I do or love you as much!

Bonnie Parker (Faye Dunaway). Bonnie and Clyde. 1967. Your advertising is just dandy. Folks would never guess you don't have a thing to sell.

Mary Poppins (Julie Andrews). Mary Poppins. 1964. Practically perfect in every way.

For more information, or to play along yourself, click here.

Is this my future?

Maybe yesterday I was bit too ambitious with the fly-front jeans. My incision hurts again today. It's back to elastic waist baggies. Ew!

A great day in Herstory

Today I wore my regular jeans, with the fly, all day! This is major. First time I've made it 8+ hours in more than two months. I'd be lying if I didn't admit to a wee bit of discomfort now, as 5:00 rolls into 6:00. OK, I would dearly love to undo the top button and sit here like Homer Simpson. But still, this is a major accomplishment in healing!

You see, my incision is about 6" long and runs straight down from my naval, tracking right along the fly. As it flattens and turns into a plain old garden variety scar, wearing my beloved jeans will become more and more comfortable.

I also rode the Lifecycle at the health club AND did leg presses. Both of these exercises require raising my knees ... previously verboten post-op. I found that the bike did make me have to pee and the leg presses made my incision itch and hum. But I know that the former is just because my bladder is getting used to its slightly new position in the neighborhood and the latter is because the muscles and nerves that were severed in surgery are reconnecting.

In all, I am a happy Gal because I am beginning to feel more like myself again. And one of the best things about this adventure is that I'm learning how much I like me and my life!

Sunday Stealing

Sunday Stealing: The Madness Meme, Part 1

Cheers to all of us thieves!

1. Have you ever licked the back of a CD to try to get it to work? No. I heard it doesn't work.

2. What’s the largest age difference between yourself and someone you’ve dated? Colin was 12 years my junior.

3. Ever been in a car wreck? No.

4. Were you popular in high school? NO! I hated high school, and high school hated me.

5. Have you ever been on a blind date? Yes. Once. Didn't go well.

6. Are looks important? Yes.

7. Do you have any friends that you’ve known for 10 years or more? Oh, yes. I have been friends with Barb and Kathleen for 16 years, Mindy and Cathy and John and I have been friends 30 years, and I've known my oldest friend since we were in Kindergarten. I am very proud of my success as a friend over the long haul, and I know how fortunate I am to have these people.

8. By what age would you like to be married? This question assumes a great deal, doesn't it?

9. Does the number of people a person’s slept with affect your view of them? No. It's none of my business.

10. Have you ever made a mistake? Not yet today ...

11. Are you a good tipper? At times. If the service is good.

12. What’s the most you have spent for a haircut? $80

13. Have you ever had a crush on a teacher? Yes, in junior high.

14. Have you ever peed in public? No. ICK.

15. What song do you want played at your funeral? Let It Be.

16. Would you tell your parents if you were gay? No. After all, I never told them I was straight.

17. What would your last meal be before getting executed? I like to think it would include prime rib and a chocolately dessert. But I also wonder if I'd be able to eat.

18. Beatles or Stones? Beatles. Duh.

19. If you had to pick one person on earth to die, who would it be? Someone who is in a great deal of incurable, untreatable pain, and who wishes to go to God. For that person, death would be a blessing.

20. Beer, wine or hard liquor? Hard liquor. Preferably rum or vodka.
21. Do you have any phobias? In order of how often I encounter them -- squirrels, airline travel and clowns.

22. What are your plans for the future? Right now, to take a shower and feed my cats.

Saturday 9

Saturday 9: Melancholy Man

1. Are you more melancholy on occasion? I don't know how to answer this. I get melancholy on occasion, but it happens less often than it used to.

2. What did you think you looked like when you were a teenager? I was pudgy, with zits around my nose and a long, light brown ponytail.

3. Whose advice are you least likely to listen to? Either of my sisters.

4. Tell us about a job that you liked when you were younger. Babysitting. Once the kids fell asleep, I could just eat potato chips and watch TV. And I got paid for this!

5. Would you lie to someone if you knew the truth would end your friendship or relationship? Depends on the lie.

6. What do you have little or no patience for? People who take up too much space with their stuff. As in, why does your water bottle deserve a spot on the bench in the locker room?

7. What is there never enough hours in the day to do? Really scrubbing down the bathroom. Gee, I wish I could squeeze it in. It's looks like such fun.

8. What is the most productive thing that you accomplished in October? Got the cats up to date on their shots/vet trips.

9. What have you always wanted to learn but haven't yet? Spanish. I tried over the summer but got distracted.

Even better

That maddening tingling between my shoulder blades continued, even after last Friday's massage. Used a Living Social coupon and got a fabulous massage at a Michigan Avenue chiropractor's office. I preferred this therapist because he achieved the just right level of chattiness. Once we established where his ministrations would do the most good, and how much pressure felt right, I was able to just relax. I very nearly dozed off. It was delightful.

I also realize how much more comfortable I have become, having a strange man's hands on me. Even when I'm almost naked and should be feeling vulnerable, but I don't. I'm pleased and proud of that.

Dona Nobis Pacem

Envision "... a world of peace
where the weak are secure and the strong are just."
John F. Kennedy

For more information about this peaceful movement, see Mimi.

Thursday Thirteen #144

THIRTEEN BIRTHDAY PRESENTS THAT
MY NIECE NEEDS
(BUT DOESN'T WANT)

This week marks my favorite niece's first away-from-home/college-dormitory birthday. One of the things I genuinely admire about her is how very good she is with money ... after all, it's not a trait that many of the women in our family share! Because she is so tight, I decided to allow her to save her own cash for things she wants by providing her with the boring, utilitarian stuff she needs, but won't set her pulse racing.

1) Hand sanitizer

2) Deodorant (2 sticks!)

3) Antibiotic spray (she's a cooking student so I think we can expect cuts)

4) Toothpaste

5) Crest White Strips

6) Cold tablets

7) Cough drops

8) Excedrin (Migraine Formula)

9) Tissue purse packs

10) Disposable razors

11) Cough drops

12) Oxi Clean Stain Remover Stick

13) A Walgreen's giftcard


For more information, or to play along yourself,
click here.

Oh, I remember now

This morning I was reminded why I seldom drink champagne. It's not that I don't like the taste -- I'm crazy about it. It's not that I don't appreciate the buzz -- it's one of the few things I enjoy even more than the taste. It's just that I cannot completely shake the after effects today. I am so sleepy and sluggish!

But it was worth it. My best friend was in town, the first time all year. We observed tradition and returned to Eno, where we shared flights of chocolate and champagne/sparkling wine. We had so much to toast, and we needed to do it right.

First of all, I'm OK. I'm not suffering from fatigue all the time (at least not when I'm dealing with a champagne hangover). I don't have cancer. Certainly that's worth celebrating!

We had to toast his daughters. The older girl is joining a handful of freshmen on a spring ("winterim") trip to Beijing. His younger daughter is still completely into her ballet. While she may not be the most naturally gifted, she's one of the most dedicated and certainly happiest dancers in the troupe and that, too, is worth raising a glass to.

And lastly, we're still us. This relationship means a great deal to both of us. We see one another more clearly than others do, perhaps because we allow ourselves to be more genuine/vulnerable with one another than we do with others. I just wish he was happier. It's not that he's blue, not at all. We had a wonderful time last night. He's just grayer and wearier than I'd like him to be.

I'd rather be writing

Oh, I know I'm already supposed to be writing. At least between 9 and 5. But that's assignment writing, not fun writing.

This year I'm participating in Nanowrimo again. This event proclaims November as National Writing Month, and encourages us each to try our hands at putting down 50,000 words of fiction. I revisited the heroine I created last year -- Margaret, Mags or Peggy, depending on when you knew her during her 60 years -- and I discovered I still like her. Now I can't wait to get back to her.

Instead I'm writing about why -- if you participate in a 401k at work -- you should also open an IRA. With my client. Who is paying me. God love them.

So I really must stop thinking of how I can rescue poor Margaret and get back to the swell variety of investment options my client offers.

Baghdad Pups

Operation Baghdad Pups

U.S. troops in Iraq and Afghanistan befriend local animals as a way to help cope with the emotional hardships they endure every day while deployed in a war zone. The Operation Baghdad Pups program provides veterinary care and coordinates complicated logistics and transportation requirements in order to reunite these beloved pets with their service men and women back in the U.S. These important animals not only help our heroes in the war zone, but they also help them readjust to life back home after combat.

I don't imagine that there's anyone whose heart can't be touched by a soldier or a companion animal. And the combination of troops and pets is just too much! Please help our heroes come home without worrying about the animals they left behind. As our days in Iraq come to a close, even $5 is especially important to the heroes who served us and the dogs and cats who comfort them.

My 2010 Peace Globe Revisited

THIS JUST IN ...

"Some men see things as they are and say why -
I dream things that never were and say why not."

Help us make more news in 2011!

My 2011 Globe is done and ready to go. Is yours? If not, why not?

Dream with us. Celebrate with us.
Join Us!
Blogblast for Peace -- 11/4/2011

Sunday Stealing

Sunday Stealing: The W.T.F. Meme

Cheers to all of us thieves!

1. One of my favorite TV shows recently changed the actors who played two characters. Have you ever been bothered by a TV show or movie series changing actors who play a character you love? No. But I have been upset by the departure of favorite characters. Most recently -- WHY CAN'T I HAVE ELLIOTT ON SVU?

2. A coworker recently shared a link to a blog listing the "five things you should know before dating a journalist." As a journalist, I can honestly say the writer was spot-on. What are some things people should know before spending time with you?
* I like my alone time. That's not at all about you, it's me. * I don't take much seriously, but the things I am serious about, I'm veeerrry serious about. * No hate language around this Gal. I simply will not have it. I won't bat an eye if you dismiss someone as a "motherfucker," but call them a racial epithet or a slur about their religion or sexual orientation, and you must be gone. * Coke. I must have Coke. * Everyone's birthday is important and deserves celebrating. ESPECIALLY mine.

3. What is something you often do without realizing that you're doing it? I don't know. You tell me.

4. Who has the capacity to make you angrier than anyone else in your life, and what in particular does he or she do to make you so angry? One of my coworkers, The Chocolate Covered Spider. She insists on having her way, just as I (ah-hem) have been known to do. But she covers her willfulness in a superficial patina of niceness that makes it impossible for us to have any real resolution to our differences. I wish we could just work through our shit but we can't because she is so manipulative and conflict averse.

5. If a fairy waved a magic wand and gave you the house of your dreams, where would it be and what features would it have? It would be in a doorman building, about 40 floors up, with a view of Lake Michigan. I'd like exposed brick around the fireplace, please. And built in bookshelves in the den. Thank you.

6. What’s a belief that you hold with which many people disagree? I was upset by the tape of Ghadafi's capture. I hate that kind of brutality.

7. I used to talk in my sleep. In fact, I could carry on a conversation with someone when I was fully asleep, and my mom used this fact when I was a teenager to find out if I did anything wrong and was hiding it from my parents. If you were talking your sleep tonight, what do you think you would say? "Hello, David Addison." I don't know why, exactly, but many of the dreams I remember the next morning feature 1980s vintage Bruce Willis.

8. The fourth installment of the "Twilight" movie series ("Breaking Dawn Part I") will be released in theaters soon. Movie theaters started selling advance tickets for midnight showings months ago. Have you ever attended a midnight premiere showing of a movie? No.

9. On Tuesday, tigers, lions and bears were let loose in Zanesville, Ohio, by their owner before he committed suicide, leading to a hunt in which 49 of the animals, including 18 endangered Bengal tigers, were killed. How would you react if you saw "Caution exotic animals. Stay in your vehicle" being displayed on a road sign? I would stay in my vehicle!

10. If a company opened a theme park aimed at adults, what would you name one of the rides? Dan. Named in honor a former lover, who took me on better thrill rides than Disney ever dreamed of.

11. Imagine you just moved onto Sesame Street. Which puppet would you want as your new roommate? Snuffy. And he's not a puppet!

12. Have you ever had a weird crush on a famous person that didn't make sense to you? White House spokesman Jay Carney makes me hot. It makes complete sense to me, but I realize he's a passion not all women share.

13. If you get ten minutes to interview any celebrity of your choice, who would you like it to be? "Jennifer Aniston, are you really still pining over Brad? Or are you more over your brief marriage than the press seems to be?"

14. You've just won the complete DVD collection of all the movies starring one actor or actress. Which actor/actress would you pick? Redford

15. Actor George Clooney recently told People Magazine that he doesn't use Twitter "because I will drink in the evening and I don't want anything that I could possibly write at midnight to actually end my career." What is something you've said through social media and then regretted it? Nothing, really. Sorry.

16. VH1 has re-introduced its hit show "Pop-Up Video," which gives behind-the-scenes facts for popular music videos. What musician would you be most interested in learning behind-the-scenes facts about? Sir Paul McCartney. If you didn't see that answer coming, you don't visit here often.

17. If you stumbled across someone's personal written journal that was accidentally left in a public place, would you read any of the content? Yes.

18. What is the title of a self-help book that you'd never want to see on a store bookshelf? How to Be Less Progressive

19. Many media outlets have been asking this question a lot this week... Which Halloween costume do you think will be overdone this year? I'm sorry, but I haven't seen any costumes at all yet this year.

20. Should a marriage license have a renewal date or expiration date, like a driver’s license? As a barren spinster, I don't feel it's my place to respond

Better now

I had a good Friday and Saturday!

At the office, I really felt like I was back. My workload felt just right and I was pleased with what I wrote. My favorite coworker and de facto protegee, Tom,was in and out of my office all day, occasionally closing the door to share gossip or ask advice. It felt as though I had never been gone, and that's nice. Comforting.

I managed to get the last appointment of the night at my health club spa and got a really deep tissue massage. It wasn't relaxing and luxurious, it felt medicinal. Eric, the therapist, was very good but very chatty and serious about his work. Being assigned to him was a happy accident -- I took whoever he was available for 7:00 on Friday. But he has recently had abdominal surgery himself for intestinal issues and understood completely how I was feeling. How after weeks and weeks off, sitting at a desk and working on a keyboard can really rock the back and shoulders! And how to avoid any pressure on the small of my back that would bother my incision. I am still a little sore but it's a nice sore. Post-massage, I'm no longer feeling that sudden, irritating tingle between my shoulder blades.

Saturday I paid bills, got a haircut, and went to visit my mom. It was good to spend a little time with her. I realize how lucky I am that I was able to have my mother with me post-op. Just as I appreciate my friends more than ever.

Saturday 9

Saturday 9: Mr. Roboto

1. Do you enjoy holidays like Halloween or is your approach more robotic? To reference another holiday icon, I'm certainly not a Grinch, but I'm not seriously into Halloween, either.

2. Have you ever been to a haunted house? Not a real one. Just the ones in amusement parks.

3. What are you doing for Halloween this year? I sent cards to my niece and nephew. I have Atomic Fireballs to give any trick-or-treaters who happen to come by. I recall that multiple, individually-wrapped candies made for good trading when my sister and I compared our hauls.

4. What was your lamest Halloween costume ever? Any of the store bought ones from when I was little.

5. Is handing out candy fun for you, or more of a nightmare? It's irrelevant because my village has cut off Trick or Treating at 7:00 and I'm usually not home by then.

6. Do you buy trick-or-treat candy and end up eating it yourself? I chose Atomic Fireballs in large part because I will happily consume the leftovers myself.

7. Did you carve any pumpkins this year? Nope.

8. What was your favorite costume as a child? I don't recall that many of them. They were store bought and usually ended up being covered by coats anyway. When I was a kid, Halloween was about the candy collection, not the dress up.

9. What is your biggest pet peeve about trick-or-treaters? Don't have any.

Spending the night in ... THE SIMMONS' HOUSE

I loved being frightened by The Ghost and Mr. Chicken when I saw it in theaters with my oldest friend, back when we were in third grade. It had everything -- a hero any child can relate to (Luther, aka "Mr. Chicken"), a bully for a villain, an unsolved murder, and best of all, A HAUNTED HOUSE. I still recall the first time I saw the blood-dripping portrait.

There's not much violence, very little real peril, but the right level of suspense for fun. I found it in it's entirety on YouTube. This could be the way I celebrate Halloween.

GRRRR

While I may appear placid, like a lioness I can be mercurial. I'm in a mood. I can't sleep. Nothing captures my attention. I have a new zit on my chin. Don't cross me or I could swipe ya with my big paw!

I'm so exhausted when I get home from work that I nap. Then I wake up NOW, pre-dawn, for a while. I wish I could sleep, undisturbed, if I need it or stay awake to get something accomplished around the house if I don't.

And I'm sick of not being well. I know, I know ... I should be more patient. But I don't feel like being patient. I feel like being ME!