Survey Says …

Here's a long one, ideal for distracting me from bill paying.

THE RULES

Copy the whole list into your blog.
Bold the things that are true about you.
Add something that is true about you.
Optional: Add a comment after answer in italics

1.I miss somebody right now. My best friend
2.I don’t watch much TV these days.
3.I love olives
4.I own lots of books.
5.I wear glasses or contact lenses. Sometimes both
6.I love to play video games.
7.I’ve tried marijuana.
8.I’ve watched porn movies. I prefer to think of it as "erotica"
9.I have been in a threesome.
10.I have been the psycho-ex in a past relationship.
11.I believe honesty is usually the best policy.
12.I curse sometimes. Actually, I curse almost constantly
13.I have changed a lot mentally over the last year.
14.I have a hobby. I do believe you're looking at it
15.I carry my knife/razor everywhere with me.
16.I’m TOTALLY smart.
17.I’ve never broken someone’s bones.
18.I have a secret that I am ashamed to reveal.
19.I hate the rain.
20.I’m paranoid at times.
21.I would get plastic surgery if it were 100% safe, free of cost, and scar-free.
22.I need money right now. I always need money.
23.I love sushi. 
24.I talk really, really fast.
25.I have fresh breath in the morning.
26.I have long hair.
27.I have lost money in Las Vegas.
28.I have at least one brother and/or one sister.
29.I was born in a country outside of the U.S.
30.I shave my legs (females) or face (males) on a regular basis. 
31.I have a twin (or a triplet, or somesuch).
32.I have worn fake hair/fingernails/eyelashes in the past. But only if Halloween counts
33.I couldn’t survive without Caller I.D.
34.I like the way that I look.
35.I have lied to a good friend in the last 6 months.
36.I know how to cornrow.
37.I am usually pessimistic.
38.I have a lot of mood swings.
39.I think prostitution should be legalized.
40.I think Britney Spears is pretty. Pretty and pretty sad 
41.Slept with a Suitemate. 
42.I have a hidden talent.  I can wiggle my ears
43.I’m always hyper no matter how much sugar I have.
44.I have a lot of friends.
45.I am currently single.
46.I have pecked someone of the same sex. 
47.I enjoy talking on the phone.
48.I practically live in sweatpants or PJ pants.
49.I love to shop.
50.I would rather shop than eat.
51.I would classify myself as ghetto.
52.I’m bourgie and have worn a sweater tied around my shoulders.
53.I’m obsessed with my Xanga or Livejournal.
54.I don’t hate anyone.
55.I’m a pretty good dancer.
56.I don’t think Mike Tyson raped Desiree Washington.
57.I’m completely embarrassed to be seen with my mother.
58.I have a cell phone.
59.I believe in God.
60.I watch MTV on a daily basis.
61.I have passed out drunk in the past 6 months.
62.I love drama.
63.I have never been in a real relationship before.
64.I’ve rejected someone before.
65.I currently have a crush/like someone.
66.I have no idea what I want to do for the rest of my life.
67.I want to have children in the future.
68.I have changed a diaper before.
69.I’ve called the cops on a friend before.
70.I bite my nails.
71.I am a member of the Tom Green fan club.
72.I’m not allergic to anything.
73.I have a lot to learn.
74.I have been with someone at least 10 years older or younger.
75.I plan on seeing Ice Cube’s newest “Friday” movie.
76.I am shy around the opposite sex. 
77.I’m online 24/7, even as an away message.
78.I have at least 5 away messages saved.
79.I have tried alcohol or drugs before.
80.I have made a move on a friend’s significant other or crush in the past.
81.I own the “South Park” movie.
82.I have avoided assignments at work school to be on Xanga or Livejournal.
83.When I was a kid I played “the birds and the bees” with a neighbor or chum.
84.I enjoy some country music.
85.I would die for my best friends.
86.I think that Pizza Hut has the best pizza. ewww
87.I watch soap operas whenever I can.
88.I’m obsessive, anal retentive, and often a perfectionist.
89.I have used my sexuality to advance my career.
90.I love Michael Jackson, scandals and all.
91.I know all the words to Slick Rick’s “Children’s Story.”
92.Halloween is awesome because you get free candy.
93.I watch Spongebob Squarepants and I like it.
94.I have dated a close friend’s ex.
95.I like surveys/memes.
96.I am happy at this moment.
97.I’m obsessed with guys.
98.I am bisexual.
99.Democrat.
100.Conservative Republican.
101.I am punk rockish.
102.I am preppy.
103.I go for older guys/girls, not younger.
104.I study for tests most of the time.
105.I tie my shoelaces differently from anyone I’ve ever met.
106.I can work on a car.
107.I love my job.
108.I am comfortable with who I am right now. At this particular moment
109.I have more than just my ears pierced.
110.I walk barefoot wherever I can.
111.I have jumped off a bridge.
112.I love sea turtles.
113.I spend ridiculous amounts of money on makeup.
114.I believe in prophetic dreams.
115.I plan on achieving a major goal/dream.
116.I am proficient on a musical instrument.
117.I worked at McDonald’s restaurant.
118.I hate office jobs.
119.I love sci-fi movies.
120.I’ve never been in love.
121.I think water rules.
122.I am going to college out of state.
123.I am adopted.
124.I like sausage.
125.I am a pyro.
126.I love the Red Sox.
127.I have thrown up from crying too much.
128.I have been intentionally hurt by people that I loved. And I've intentionally hurt people that I loved.
129.I love kisses.
130.I fall for the worst people and have been hurt every time.
131.I adore bright colors.
132.I love Dear Abby.
133.I can’t live without black eyeliner.
134.I think school is awesome.
135.I think pigtails serve a purpose.
136.I don’t know why the hell I just did this stupid thing.
137.I usually like covers better than originals. 
138.I don’t like multi-textured ice cream
139.I think John Cusack is adorable.
140.I f**king hate chain theme restaurants like Applebees and TGIFridays.
141.I watch Food Network way too much.
142.I love coaching youth sports.
143.I can pick up things with my toes. Can't everyone? I guess I just discovered another hidden talent!
144.I can’t whistle.
145.I can move my tongue [sic] in waves, much like a snakes’ slither.
146.I have ridden/owned a horse.
147.I still have every journal I’ve ever written in.
148.I can’t stick to a diet.
149.I talk in my sleep.
150.I’ve often thought that I was born in the wrong century. Wrong decade, yes, but not wrong century
151.I do not like brooding men. 
152. I have constant humming in my ears.

153. I so prefer Coke to Pepsi.

If you do this, please let me know. That way I can check out your answers 

(and see what you added for #154.)

Like all the really good quizzes & memes …

… I stole this from Kwizgiver. It's known as "Privilege."

1. Father went to college No.

2. Father finished college No

3. Mother went to college No.

4. Mother finished college No.

5. Have any relative who is an attorney, physician, or professor No

6. Were the same or higher class than your high school teachers Same

7. Had more than 50 books in your childhood home Definitely. My dad had many, many faults as a parent, but he was a big reader and encouraged reading.

8. Had more than 500 books in your childhood home See above.

9. Were read children's books by a parent Yes. I remember my mom's voice as she read (among others) Charlotte's Web and The Black Stallion to us at bedtime.

10. Had lessons of any kind before you turned 18 Art lessons, ballet lessons, swimming lessons and riding lessons. I remain a decent swimmer but was only good at horseback riding. I'm no artist, nor a dancer, but I have always had a way with critters.

11. Had more than two kinds of lessons before you turned 18 See above

12. The people in the media who dress and talk like me are portrayed positively White middle class suburbanites? Yeah.

13. Had a credit card with your name on it before you turned 18 No

14. Your parents (or a trust) paid for the majority of your college costs I didn't attend college. No, that's not true. I went to a semester or two of community college, and I paid for it myself.

15. Your parents (or a trust) paid for all of your college costs See above.

16. Went to a private high school Nope. Same public school my Mom and uncle attended.

17. Went to summer camp Girl Scout daycamp every summer for years. Hated it every summer for years.

18. Had a private tutor before you turned 18 Nope.

19. Family vacations involved staying at hotels Yes. Even when visiting family, we always stayed in hotels and motels. And I still prefer that to crashing to with relatives.

20. Your clothing was all bought new before you turned 18 No. Lots of hand-me-downs. My older sister was only a year ahead of me in school, so whenever she got new clothes I could pretty much count on it being in my closet soon enough.

21. Your parents bought you a car that was not a hand-me-down from them No.

22. There was original art in your house when you were a child No. Not a priority for either of my folks.

23. You and your family lived in a single family house Yes

24. Your parent(s) owned their own house or apartment before you left home Hard to answer this one because it was paid off, then they took out a second mortgage less than a year before I left

25. You had your own room as a child  Yes. Thank God! It was my sanctuary

26. You had a phone in your room before you turned 18 No. But my sister and I had our phone with its own number in the basement.

27. Participated in an SAT/ACT prep course No. My poor mother had to battle to get me to take the tests at all.

28. Had your own TV in your room in high school Yes

29. Owned a mutual fund or IRA in high school or college Oh, come on! 

30. Flew anywhere on a commercial airline before you turned 16 Nope. All of our family vacations started with long, painful, boring car rides.

31. Went on a cruise with your family No. And that's OK. I wonder if I wouldn't be bored on a cruise.

32. Went on more than one cruise with your family See above

33. Your parents took you to museums and art galleries as you grew up No. That's what Girl Scouts and school field trips were for. 

34. You were unaware of how much heating bills were for your family Yes. Completely. My father liked us to believe we were wealthy. I guess we kinda were, but only because he cheated on his income taxes and borrowed, borrowed, borrowed. It all caught up with him shortly after I graduated from high school. Unbeknownst to him, I helped my mom out by paying the electric bill in addition to rent as soon as I got a job. It made me FUCKING CRAZY to hold my tongue when he scolded and lectured me about my responsibilities as long as I was living under "his" roof. I knew about the second mortgage and I was keeping the lights on. I'm still very quick to assume hypocrisy in authority.

THAT'S who Obama reminds me of!

Some bloggers write that Obama reminds them of Bobby Kennedy. Nope. Not me. Bobby Kennedy was prickly with passion and righteous indignation. I hear him in John Edwards.

Or maybe Obama is like JFK. He does have youth, charisma and a gorgeous family. But no, that's not quite right either. JFK was wittier and more facile in interviews and debates than Obama.

Obama promises us hope for the future. A new way of looking at things. The ability to turn the page on the Baby Boom Generation. Shhh … Wait! What's that I hear?

"Don't stop thinking about tomorrow … Yesterday's gone. Yesterday's gone."

In 1992, Bill Clinton promised us hope for the future. A new way of looking at things. The ability to turn the page on the WWII generation. 

Ironic, isn't it?

Poor Joe and the unfortunate Kibble Situation

My big ol' tomcat has a brain the size of a plum pit and a heart the size of all outdoors. He's always affectionate and trusting, but easily confused, which is why I'm upset that the Kibble Situation has had such an impact on him. He can't possibly understand it and it makes him so sad.

Here's the deal: Joey has always had a tendency toward urinary tract infection. That's why he ended up at the shelter in the first place -- his original family could afford neither the special food nor the medical care he required. He joined my household 10 years ago and, thanks to good advice and special attention from my vet, has had NO repeat infections.

The key is a premium dry cat food that is acceptable to all my cats but especially good for Joe's special needs. Because of storms and erratic weather out west, the vet hasn't received any new shipments since early December. We have been getting by with dry food purchased at Petco. All three cats seem to like the taste of this well enough, but only poor Joe has suffered any adverse effects.

It's not his urinary tract, thank God! It's his coat. He's got matts! No matter how gentle I am when I comb them, it still hurts. I tried to clip the matts away but that upset him, too, and I can't bear upsetting Joe. He doesn't understand. It confuses him. He looks so blue. He still loves me, of course, but that makes it worse. I'm his favorite human on earth. Why, oh why, am I doing this to him?

It's the unfortunate Kibble Situation, Joe! It's global warming and unpredictable weather. It's impassable roads and delayed railroad shipments. As soon as the Kibble Situation is resolved, I'll stop doing this to you. I promise. And your handsome gray coat will be shiny and matt-free once more. Honest!

At least Ella is OK

My heart goes out to the family of Meredith Emerson, the 24-year-old hiker who disappeared on the Appalachian Trail on Blood Mountain in Union County, GA. But ever since I first  heard this news story, I have been worried silly about her dog, Ella. Reports said that her abandoned car and beloved dog were found, but until today, I didn't know Ella's condition. 

Ella wandered into a grocery store and was positively identified by the microchip in her neck. She's fine. Thank God.

First of all, I always hate it when bad things happen to critters. Secondly, this girl clearly loves her pup. I was afraid that if the dog was found murdered, it would have meant that some awful person tortured Meredith's beloved Ella in front of her. As an animal lover, I can't even imagine the sheer terror that would have inspired in this girl.

But Ella is OK. Meredith knows the trail well and is an experienced outdoorswoman. Plus, her family takes solace in the fact that her middle name is "Hope." I'm holding out hope that Meredith's story ends up as safely as Ella's.

Be well, my liege

Sir Paul McCartney has had secret heart surgery, it has been revealed.

The Beatles legend, who is currently embroiled in a bitter divorce battle with Heather Mills, is said to have recovered well after undergoing a coronary angioplasty at a private London hospital last autumn.

A source said: "Paul felt there was something not quite right and luckily sought some professional help. It's not something that can be left to chance. Thankfully the operation went well and Paul feels great."

The operation, which opens up arteries to increase the flow of blood, was performed after Paul, 65, saw a Harley Street specialist at the London Clinic.

The procedure involves surgeons passing a small tube through the groin to the aorta. A tiny balloon at the tip of the tube is inflated to crush fatty deposits clogging the arteries, allowing blood to flow freely. A stent - a short wire mesh tube - is often left in the artery to keep it open. Paul's spokesman said: "It was a routine medical operation."

Next month, Paul and Heather will attend a five-day High Court hearing in a bid to finally agree on a divorce settlement. Heather, 39, is set to be awarded more than £30 million following a four-year marriage to the musician.

Friday's Feast #28

Appetizer
When was the last time you received a surprise in the mail, and what was it? In 2007 I found I was entitled to $25 as part of a class action suit.

Soup
If you could have a summer and/or winter home, where would you want it to be? "I like New York in June. How about you?"

Salad
Pick one: pineapple, orange, banana, apple, cherry. Orange.

Main Course
Describe the nicest piece of clothing that you own. By Eileen Fisher, it's a lightweight green sweater with a shawl collar.

Dessert
If you could forget one whole day from your life, which day would you choose to wipe from your memory? I've got a couple of very tempting answers, but instead I'll say that I don't want to erase any of it. You have to be who you were to be who you are, and I like who I am.

For more about Friday's Feast, or to play along yourself, click here.

Now it's historic for another reason

Tonight Barack Obama was the clear and convincing winner of the Iowa caucus. Congratulations, Senator!

He announced his candidacy at this train station in Springfield. It was from here that another of Illinois' favorite sons left to become President in 1861. I think that Abraham Lincoln would enjoy it that Obama, a man who preaches conciliatory governing, kicked off his White House run from this famous spot.

Poetry, ain't it?

"Frankly, I am over all of them. They stink. But Hillary will pull ahead soon, when she gets out her bag of dirty tricks. It won't be long, hang on!"

That is a comment, in its entirety and completely in context, that I discovered on a serious, thoughtful blog entry about the Democratic Presidential candidates. The only revisions were to the commenter's grammar, which was, frankly, atrocious.

Was this meant to be funny?  There are no puns, no witticisms, no sly double meanings. Nope. It's just pure vitriol, and it makes me sad. There's so much on the line with this election, no candidates have been chosen, and yet this commenter is dismissing all the top-tier Dems with that most convincing of arguments: "They stink."

I don't think all the Republicans "stink." I can't imagine a circumstance where I would vote for Huckabee or McCain, but I respect both men. I'm amazed by how proud some on the other side of the fence are to proclaim how hostile and narrow-minded they are.

I am completely besotted with the top tier of the Democratic candidates, yet I've read that many rank-and-file Republicans aren't crazy about their choices. This is where the commenter above reminds me of a Chicago White Sox fan. "White Sox Park (US Cellular) is ugly. Our uniforms are ugly. Our team had a disappointing season. It's miserable to be a White Sox fan, so I hate the Cubs."

I'd say that the Iowa caucus and this election are more important than Chicago baseball, but if you're a regular reader of this blog, you might not believe me.

P.S. The commenter is so close minded that she doesn't even know that Hillary has already reached into her "bag of dirty tricks" to cast aspersions on Obama through Bill Shaheen and Bob Kerrey. (The Gal shakes her head) How can someone be so PROUD to be hostile and narrow minded?

THURSDAY THIRTEEN #48 -- 2007 in Review

THIRTEEN THINGS

THE GAL HERSELF 

ENJOYED IN 2007

This blog serves as my well organized journal and has enabled me to look over the past year and savour the highlights.

1. My mom’s health. She gave us a pair of serious health scares in 2006, but her health has held steady this year. Which is great news, because she's still my mommy.

2. My cats. All three of them are healthy and happy. These are my babies, and I'm grateful that they're fine.

3. The 2007 NL Central Division Champion Chicago Cubs. What an amazing season! What a terrific cast of characters! These guys were a gas and a giggle and spring can't get here fast enough.

4. Elizabeth Edwards’ book. This book had a tremendous impact on me. Her unflinching honesty and her willingness to face and share her pain … how she embraces others when she needs help … Maybe I just picked up this book at a time in my life when I was receptive to her message, but I know I'm a different woman now than I was when I began it.

5. My three mini-getaways. I got away more than once this year, each trip for just a few days at a time, and all three trips left me feeling rejuvenated. I just got back from Key West, in November I visited Lincoln's Springfield, and in the spring I went to Chateau Elan. I recommend all three destinations to everyone!

6. Greg Maddux finds a home with the Padres. He's got a contract to play another year and in the NL, too!

7. Senators Clinton, Obama and Edwards. As I write this, the Iowa caucus hasn't happened yet. If I was a caucus goer, I'm not sure which one I'd support. But I do know this: I could proudly cast my vote for any of these three. (Biden, too.) It's a good and hopeful time to be a Democrat. I feel optimistic for my country again.

8. Getting my health in order (somewhat). OK, so I look like a fat pigeon. But there is still a bright side: My anti-depressants are working, my skin is finally clear, my teeth and gums are in good shape, and my cholesterol is in line.

9. Waitress. Last year it was Little Mary Sunshine. This year the “little” movie that captured my heart was Waitress. It’s out on DVD. Rent it!

10. Memory Almost Full and Magic. Two of my all-time favorite artists came out with personal and introspective new music this year. For me, the highlight of Paul McCartney's CD was "That Was Me." And the Boss touched me with "Long Walk Home."

11. Jersey Boys. This multi Tony winner deserves all the awards and praise it's received. For all that I know of The Four Seasons' songs, I knew nothing of their colorful and very dramatic beginnings. It's both gritty and glitzy and very well staged. If you can get a ticket, GO!

12. Good friends. This is the family I chose. I adore each and every one of them, and I realize -- and am grateful for -- each time they've kept me afloat in 2007.

13. All that this blog brought me. I feel like a real member of the blogosphere, and want to thank all of you who visit often, listen, comment and send positive wishes my way. Thank you, thank you, thank you!

And now I raise my glass in a toast to a terrific 2008! And thanks to Boho Rap for the new banner.

Include your link in the comments and I'll add you here:

1) Susiej shares 13 easy yet thoughtful tips for writing the perfect thank you note

2) Look to Pjazzypar for 13 very funny quotes from comics

3) Ellen B gives timely props to a great American character

4) Malcolm shows us how Bo Diddley is relevant today

5) Sandy Carlson looks back on the role of faith in 2007

6) Nicholas tours his DVD collection

7) Greatfullivin takes on criticism

8) Robin prepares us to battle coughs and sniffles

9) The Pink Flamingo wouldn't load for me. But go visit and let me know what she says.

10) Nicole Austin has a wise and witty TT about (sigh) men

11) The No Nonsense Girl has ambitious plans for 2008

12) Jenny McB is back! Check out her thoughts, musings and "resolutions."

13) Janet has a new look

14) Lori's TT is the most popular resolutions, and I just know yours will be among them

15) Army Wife shares her poetic side

16) Wacky Mommy brings us along to Costco

17) Damozel updates us on 2007's real news stories (meaning, no Britney or Paris)

18) Natalie reminds herself (and us) how to be healthier and more fit in 2008

19) Joy Is My Goal needs our help! She got $$ for Christmas and can't figure which of these 13 things to spend it on.

20) Yen has a movie TT, and you know how I love movie TTs!

21) Deanna shares her collection of Disney toys

22) Nadiah lists her plans for 2008

23) Patti has a TT brought to us by the letter A

24) Emerald City Guy has some new year's resolutions that are uniquely his

25) Harlekwin (she who designed my new TT banner) shares her plans for 2008

26) Danielle is planning for Valentine's Day already

27) Karen -- Georgia Angel shares her wish list

28) Linda R. Moore introduces her roadmap to a successful 2008

Get the Thursday Thirteen code here!


The purpose of the meme is to get to know everyone who participates a little bit better every Thursday. Visiting fellow Thirteeners is encouraged! If you participate, leave the link to your Thirteen in others' comments. It’s easy, and fun! Trackbacks, pings, comment links accepted!

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In praise of Captain Tony's

This is my favorite bar in Key West. That's saying a lot, because there are many, MANY bars on that island. Yet for me, nothing sums up the mood of Key West more than this old bar.

In the 1930s it was the original site of Sloppy Joe's, Hemingway's favorite haunt. But this bar had a rich history even before Papa arrived, and it all has an impact on the place's unique vibe.

First of all, there's a tree growing in the middle of the place. Really. The first building known to be on this site was a morgue. The tree was "the hanging tree," where those found guilty met their demise. Locals believed that removing the tree would disrupt the evil spirits that died there, so the bar (complete with cigar store and bordello) was built around the huge tree. Forget hurricanes. The hanging tree has survived at least since the 1880s. I guess Mother Nature doesn't want to disturb the evil spirits, either.

As if drinking in a dark, breezy establishment with a tree growing in the middle isn't strange enough, let me describe the decor. All the chairs and most of the barstools are torn, with stuffing showing. The walls are covered with business cards, many of them curled and yellowing with antiquity. There are bras hanging from the ceiling (some are autographed) and license plates from "the mainland" nailed to the rafters. No, I don't know why. 

I used to try to figure out what the hanging tree, the bras, the business cards and the license plates have in common. Then I gave up. 

It's just Key West.

My Sunset Culinaire Cruise

Yesterday afternoon we went on a dinner cruise with a real three-course dinner. It was beautiful and delicious. We each began with a salad (my friend, the Birthday Boy, is more adventuresome than I and had a Thai salad with a spring roll), then we went with the catch of the day -- grouper -- cooked with rice on a shrimp reduction sauce, and for dessert I had a terrific rice pudding (that tasted spicy somehow) with raspberry sauce and he had chocolate cheesecake.

We both had wine enjoyed watching the sunset with the ship's dog, a lovely old mutt named Jackie who endured our petting in exchange for access to the area under the table so she could search for anything that may have missed our mouths.

In the past we have taken a sunset sail, but this was actually much better. The boat's capacity is only 18, and the price tag is a little heftier, so while all shipmates were friendly, there's less of that raucous party atmosphere.

Don't know what we're doing today. I just know that I love being here because of my friend. His lover and their friends are so interesting and just so accepting of me. Yesterday we had lunch with a married couple of lawyers who recently moved down here from DC (Virginia, actually) and he is looking for a teaching position at the community college down here where my friend is a professor. His wife and I hit it off instantly, talking about everything from the wonderfully tacky moccasins found at the Wisconsin Dells to the inspiring love story of John and Elizabeth Edwards. She said what I was thinking, "It's so nice to meet someone who agrees with me about everything!"

Well I'd better log off now and continue up Duval in search of souvenirs for loved ones back home. Wait! What's that I hear? Could it be a margarita calling out to me?

(I'm composing this from a community computer at an Internet cafe, so unfortunately I can't include any photos. For more information and some professional pix, visit www.sunsetculinaire.com.)

It's just as easy to be nice as ...

... to be an incredible asshole.

The night before I left for Key West, I spent a ton of time on the phone with the nicest customer service representative for Continental Airlines. She very patiently explained what could happen if the snow started to fall in Chicago (it did) delaying my flight (it was) and jeopardizing my opportunity to make a connection in Tampa to Key West. She was completely lovely and reserved a seat for me on the only available Continental flight to Key West the next day. Turns out I didn't need her help, but that doesn't diminish how thorough and polite she was and I appreciated that sooooo much.

Contrast this with the little jerk who was directing people at Terminal A in Tampa. All he would do is point. He refused to answer questions. I had 10 minutes to make my flight, and when I got to Terminal A I discovered I would have to go through a long line at security again. Taking off my shoes, collecting all my 3-oz or less bottles and zipping them into a storage bag, etc. They do not make you go through security twice at O'Hare, Hartsfield or Miami, so I thought this was a mistake. "I have answered you three times!" he barked. Maybe 21, with a face ProActiv would love, and he's giving me shit. Not to mention that I've never spoken to him before in my life, much less twice previously. I went to check his nametag and he covered it with his hand. "You don't get to know my name. You just have to get in line." He was wearing a red vest, so I know he was airport, not NTSB, so I sarcastically thanked him and wished him a happy, happy holiday season. A man observing this exchange gave me the spot in front of him at the middle of the line.

So to the woman on the phone at Continental and to the fellow traveller right behind in line as I went through security (again!) at Tampa, thank you, thank you, thank you. Your kindnesses meant a lot to me, and almost washed away the stench of the officious brat boy who was undoubtedly using bravado and rudeness to compensate for bad skin and a small penis.

Friday's Feast #27

Appetizer.
Name 2 things you would like to accomplish in 2008. Lose weight and organize my home.

Soup.
With which cartoon character do you share personality traits? Bugs Bunny. I can be a highly verbal smart ass.

Salad.
What time of day (or night) were you born? The stroke of midnight. The hospital told my mother that legally I could not be born at midnight -- that in order to put a date on my birth certificate she had to choose between 11:59 PM and 12:01 AM. She went with the latter. I have had my astrological chart done twice, and this factoid completely freaked out both astrologers. I was born on the cusp of the cusp!

Main Course.
Tell us something special about your hometown. Some of America's most creative citizens have lived here: Frank Lloyd Wright, Hemingway, Edgar Rice Burroughs, and Bob Newhart.

Dessert.
If you could receive a letter from anyone in the world, who would you want to get one from? Gloria Steinem. She has had a profound and ongoing influence on my life.

For more information, or to whip up your own feast, visit www.fridaysfeast.com.

It helps to have a plan

Let's examine the facts:

•  I hate to fly

•  The airlines have twice lost my bags on the ORD/EYW route

•  A major snowstorm is supposed to hit tomorrow, right about the time my flight is supposed to take off

This makes me crazy. At times like this, my mind just won't stop spinning. My flight won't take off on time and I'll miss my connecting flight and I'll never get to Key West. Or my flight will take off but the conditions will be treacherous and I'll end up as a Galcicle in icy Lake Michigan. Or … Given a few hours and my gift for awfulizing, I can easily whip myself up into a frenzy..

So I took steps to protect me from me. First I got a deep tissue massage. Ah … Then I met a friend to exchange Christmas gifts. It was good to blab and gossip and not think about the flights. Then I got home and started to panic again. What it … what if … what if …?

What if my flight is grounded for hours and I miss my connecting flight in Tampa? I sat on the phone with a very nice, very patient customer service rep who held the last seat on a flight to Key West on Saturday. It's super expensive, but it will get me down there. Hopefully I won't need it, hopefully my travel tomorrow will go without a hitch, but just in case it doesn't, I have a plan.

The illusion of control feels almost as delicious as that deep tissue massage.

THURSDAY THIRTEEN #47 -- Really Good Gifts

THIRTEEN GIFTS

THE GAL REALLY

ENJOYED GIVING

It IS much better to give than to receive! And now that all (but one) of my holiday gifts have been distributed, here are 13 of the highlights.

1. Hudson the Polar Bear (shown). I got my mother a real-live polar bear as part of the Brookfield Zoo’s Share the Care Program. In addition to knowing that she is helping with young Hudson’s care and feeding, she also received a (much) smaller plush Hudson, a color portrait of the real thing, and a commemorative certificate.

2. Small suitcase. It’s black and white and about 12” x 6”, purchased for my niece. She loves trunks and cases and jewelry boxes. I have no idea how she’ll use this – purse or storage – but she’s imaginative and enthusiastic so I know it has a good home.

3. Cars Mater National. It’s the latest GBA game based on the Cars movie (just released last month), and my nephew didn’t even know it existed! You should have seen the mix of joy and genuine surprise on his face. Yes, I’m the coolest aunt ever.

4. Chicago Bears Claw Glove. Technically speaking this was a Hannukah gift for a friend’s little boy. He was behaving so well under such trying circumstances (listening to his parents and me babble about things of no interest to him at all) that I was happy to relieve his boredom, and it made me happy to watch him joyously swiping the air, most likely imagining the Green Bay Packers.

5. St. Louis bottle opener and magnet. More than twenty years ago, when I first met the dad of the boy mentioned above, I got him to tell me an embarrassing story about himself. It involved beer, a road trip to St. Louis, and a group of frat boys relieving themselves on the Arch. I believe he forgot having told me that story until he opened the jewelry box and discovered this treasure, decorated with the poor Arch. Watching his look change from surprise to recognition to … well … embarrassment was great fun.

6. Personalized cat ornament. My uncle has always been very good to me. I’m saddened by watching him suffer through a slow, painful and ultimately failing bout with Parkinson’s disease, However this doesn’t get in the way of my recognizing that he can be a real pain in the ass -- lately he has been guilting and tormenting my poor mother big time, and he’s become very hard on his caregivers and his only child (my cousin). He could be very high-handed before the disease struck, and Parkinson’s hasn’t helped. All this helps me understand why his cat, an old and regal gray tabby, has become his best friend in the world. She is descended from Egyptian gods, and consequently feels she and my uncle are complete equals. Roommates, if you will. She is impervious to his uglier moods, and loves him even when he’s having medication-induced fits. So it made me happy to have an ornament made with her name and picture on it. I included a note that his best friend deserves a place of honor on his tree. And she does. She’s brought him comfort and companionship when he’s needed it most. so I’m grateful to that old furry girl.

7. Bush and Cheyney chew toys. My friends who live in the Keys have been together nearly 20 years and just bought their first house. Since they’re both men, it’s hard to find an ornament commemorating their first Christmas in their own home together, so I had one made. Of crystal. I think it’s quite lovely. But that isn’t what excited them. It was the Presidential and Vice Presidential squeaky chew toys I included for their dogs. Those are what completely delighted them! Oh well, gifts are supposed to be for the recipient, and I’m happy that the silly dog toys brought them such laughter.

8. Vintage post cards. My family has been going to the same resort in Wisconsin for generations. I first went with grandparents. Now my kid sister takes her kids up there. I regret every wasted, boring moment, but my sister thinks it’s the loveliest place on earth. She’s very into scrapbooking, so I was thrilled to find 1960s postcards of the place for her to add to her albums. Thank goodness for eBay!

9. “Head sock.” My brother-in-law can somehow always guess what’s in a giftbox before he opens it. This year I thought I had him because I didn’t even know what this was called. A polar fleece hood or cowl … thing … that will keep his head, ears, face and neck warm. Before he had all the paper removed, he asked, “Is this a head sock?” Damn if that’s not the perfect name for it, and yes, that’s it was! How does he do it?

10. Houdini corkscrew. I’ve been getting my hair cut by the same stylist for decades. Over time I’ve given him bigger tips at Christmas, or gift cards, but it’s all become a yawn. Last year I noticed how happy he was the bottles of wine he got from one of his clients, proudly displaying them at his station through the holiday season. That’s when it hit me: I’ll get him a corkscrew to keep in the shop so he can share his Christmas spirits with his customers. I was glad it made him so happy.

11. “Believe” bracelet. A charm on a dainty blue ribbon for a friend of mine who has had a hard time finding her niche professionally. She’s good at her job, but she gets disillusioned quickly and leaves each place of employment after just a year or two. She really wants to be a success at her current position, and so I gave her an ongoing, pretty and wearable “pep talk.”

12. Massage. My gift to me. I’m nervous about my upcoming trip to the Keys. I don’t like to fly. I don’t have much time between planes and it’s supposed to snow. The airlines have been known to lose my bags when I fly this route. I’d prefer not to be some gator's Happy Meal, thank you very much. So Thursday afternoon, I’m treating myself to a massage. Hopefully it will relax me so much that I won’t be able to awfulize myself into a pathetic, terrified frenzy again before I board the plane.

13. Toy drives. A red purse, a pair of SpongeBob books, a Bratz doll, a Lego set, a pair of woolen Chicago Bears mittens and a Rubik’s Cube. I never saw these goodies opened, but purchasing them made me happy just the same. Maybe it’s because I’m in advertising and feel somewhat responsible for how commercial Christmas has become, especially for kids. It breaks my heart to think of a child NOT being joyfully surprised at Christmas. I’m proud and peaceful knowing that I made it possible for 5 kids to get something unexpected this season.

What about you? What gift gave you the most pleasure to give?

Put your link in the comments and I'll add you here:
1) Deb shares the most popular resolutions people make each year 

2) Ellen B. has a universal, multi-lingual New Year's TT

3) Chelle Y. revisits last year's resolutions
4) Moondancer shares 13 favorite quotes from a story she knows very, very well!

5) Malcolm's TT is back!

6) How do you think Tinkerbell did with her 2007 resolutions? Find out here.

7) Nicholas makes a compelling argument for sequels that are better than the originals

8) Sue got a stocking filled with fragrant goodies

9) Sobeit asks 13 questions about "after Christmas"

10) Open Grove Gloria has an inspirational TT

11) Monday through Sunday looks back on an eventful year

12) Lori got some way cool stuff this year!

13) Susan Helene Gottfried takes us to Yellowstone

14) Lazy Daisy's self assessment is brought to us by the letter "Y"

15) Sandy Carlson introduces us to the world of fairies

16) Natalie shares her resolutions for 2008

17) Yen remembers 12 wonderful months

18) Fresh Girl looks back on her Christmas celebration

19) Gattina shows us her Christmas gifts

20)Deanna goes down memory lane and comes back with some adorable retro dolls

21) That Grrrl shows off her photos of abandoned farmhouses

22) Toni gives us the highlights of her holidays, including a shih tzu named Cujo. (Sorry, Toni, but the connection kept timing out before I could leave a comment.)

23) Nancy discusses what she doesn't want to do in the future

24) Ornery's Wife shares 13 facts about Ornery himself

25) Nancy J. Bond reveals her favorite Christmas gifts

26) Dane Bramage looks back on those we lost in 2007

27) Michelle O takes us on a tour of her daughter's toy box

28) Angelie tells us what she gave, and what she received

Get the Thursday Thirteen code here!


The purpose of the meme is to get to know everyone who participates a little bit better every Thursday. Visiting fellow Thirteeners is encouraged! If you participate, leave the link to your Thirteen in others' comments. It’s easy, and fun! Trackbacks, pings, comment links accepted!

View More Thursday Thirteen Participants

A word about sisters

Specifically my kid sister and me.

Part of why we clash so much is that I'm disappointed in the woman she's become. I know that sounds harsh, but there you go. (And if a gal can't be honest with her blog …) We're 8 years apart, and it was during her childhood our parents' marriage broke down completely. They never divorced, and the hostility in the house was very hard on her. I took on the role of protector and ersatz parent. Because I was young and still immature myself, I'm afraid I may have imbued her with gifts and qualities she didn't have. I know that, in material ways, I made her life easier to make up for how difficult her day-to-day was in that house. Now that she's often selfish and expresses a certain sense of entitlement, I realize that I helped create her. And I suppose I have no right to be disappointed that she hasn't lived up to expectations I had no right to project onto her.

On the other hand, she gets on my very last nerve. And I clearly get on hers.

Yet in some ways, no one knows you like your sister. On Christmas Eve, we gave one another our favorite gifts. I got her vintage postcards of our family's favorite vacation spot in Wisconsin. She got me the DVD of Mr. Magoo's Christmas Carol. She reminded me that since she knows how I love it, she was the one who got it for me first in Beta, and then VHS, and now was undoubtedly time for an upgrade.

I guess that's one of the gifts of Christmas, isn't it? To remind us that we're bound by history and family, and that we love one another … even when we don't like each other.

Merry Christmas Morning

This was one of the readings from last night's candlelight service. written by Longfellow, and enthusiastically embraced by this Gal.

I heard the bells on Christmas day
Their old familiar carols play,
And wild and sweet the words repeat
Of peace on earth, good will to men.

And thought how, as the day had come,
The belfries of all Christendom
Had rolled along th’ unbroken song
Of peace on earth, good will to men.

Till ringing, singing on its way
The world revolved from night to day,
A voice, a chime, a chant sublime
Of peace on earth, good will to men.

And in despair I bowed my head:
“There is no peace on earth,” I said,
“For hate is strong and mocks the song
Of peace on earth, good will to men.”

Then pealed the bells more loud and deep:
“God is not dead, nor does He sleep;
The wrong shall fail, the right prevail
With peace on earth, good will to men.”

Oh, Magoo! You've Done It Again!

This morning I was ambivalent about Christmas. I'm thrilled with the presents I got my niece and nephew and cannot wait for our gift exchange later this afternoon. But as always with my family -- with every family, to some degree, I suppose -- there is going to be tension. My mom is sad about the breakdown of communication with my uncle. My sister is not sensitive to my wanting to end my Christmas Eve and welcome my Christmas Day with worship at my church, so we may not be entirely finished with gifts and dinner by the time I have to leave …

So I popped in my old VHS tape of Mr. Magoo's Christmas Carol. Aside from fact that I was transported back to the first time I saw it (when I was about 6 or 7, in black and white, in a darkened spare bedroom at my grandmother's house, it was the first time I met these Dickens' characters), it also reminded of the message:

It's Christmas Eve and we're together.

It may not be perfect. But it will be memorable, especially for my niece and nephew. And who knows how many more Christmases we'll be able to celebrate together?

This is why I love movies. They get through to me … fast. I have learned much from books, too, naturally. But Magoo managed to penetrate my cranium and heart in little more than a hour. And I'm grateful.

Merry Christmas, Blogosphere!

Truer words were never spoken

"If you take their money, you have to take their shit."

"God bless the child that's got her own."

Not very Christmasy sentiments, I know, but they do seem to sum up what's happening with my family this holiday season.

My uncle's life is miserable these days. We're approaching the one-year anniversary of his wife's death, and he is dying himself -- slowly and painfully from Parkinson's. His world is becoming smaller and smaller, as he tires easily and is less willing to allow people to witness his spasms. I remember how he used to downhill ski and compete in 5k races and my heart breaks. So much of what has defined him as been taken away.

HOWEVER, it's important to note that when he was healthy and whole, he could be a real jerk. I love him, and he's always been good to me, but that doesn't cloud my vision. He's very wealthy, and he has long believed that gives him power over others. I don't accept that premise, so he and I have never clashed. We have, however, had our tense moments.

"Who do you think I should leave my money to?" he has asked. If I say I don't care (which I don't), I am diminishing the accomplishment he's proudest of -- the accumulation of wealth. If I say "me," then I'm just another bloodsucker who wants his money. There's no winning this tiresome game, so I won't play. I have told him alternately to give it to my mom (his sister) and to make provisions for his cat. This seems to disappoint him, and it annoys me.

He's become very hard on my mom, summoning her to his side regardless of what's going on in her life, yet refusing to come see her when invited. Likewise he has become more and more demanding on my cousin, his only child. Sometimes he uses guilt -- "I'm going to be all alone," "I hope this is my last Christmas." More often he uses money -- "I don't care that it's Christmas. I'll get my caretaker to drive out and get you. She'll do what I say because I pay her." Last week he said this within earshot of his caretaker, which upset my mother terribly. Or he'll carefully time his, "I wonder who I should leave my money to?" game, implying that if you don't show up when he snaps his fingers, he'll bequeath his wealth to someone else. It isn't that my mom and cousin want his money; it's that they resent the implication that they can be bought.

It saddens me to see him alienate the people who love him most. It saddens me to watch him willfully shrink his world and ruin his own Christmas. I've sent him cards and notes and one-of-a-kind gifts (a personalized ornament, a CD I mixed especially for him) to reassure him that I love him and am thinking of him. But I don't feel like talking to him in real time because resent how upset he's left my mom and I don't want to play his games. 

I remember the uncle who bought me my first-ever Beatle record, who took me skiing for the first time, who let me bring him to school for "show and tell" when he was home on leave from Viet Nam. I love that man, and I hope he's still in there somewhere. I wish he could be healthy and whole again and in the holiday spirit, but that is simply not going to happen. 

Unconscious Mutterings #21

I say ... and you think ... ?

Health :: Insurance
Tacky :: Pink flamingoes
Heels :: Ankle straps
Yay! :: Yea!
Model :: Runway
Gather :: Congregate
Best gift ever :: Blaze
Clients :: They're who I REALLY work for, not my agency bosses
Stomp :: The Broadway show
Clothing :: "Oh shit, it's Sunday and I still didn't pick my violet sweater set from the cleaners!"

For more information, or to mutter yourself, visit Unconscious Mutterings

One week from tonight …

I will be on this sunset dinner cruise in Key West. Today is my friend and host's birthday, and but this will be our celebration. From their website: "Watch the sun slowly set into the Gulf of Mexico while enjoying a specially prepared dinner that features an array of appetizers, fresh salads, choice of filet mignon, local fish, or tasty chicken breast preparation and a dessert that could be key lime pie with berry sauce or a chocolate decadence."

My friend lives in Key West, and yet never does any of the "tourist-y" stuff like this. Here's hoping it all comes off without a hitch.

I'm not cleaning the sink

I'm also not:

• Straightening out the den

• Picking up my dry cleaning

• Writing checks and paying bills

• Putting fresh sheets on my bed

• Exercising

I am instead:

• Drinking beer

• Farting around on the Internet

• Observing wildlife (watching my cats)

• Wallowing in The Way We Were (the scene this still is from must have ended up on the cutting room floor)

I know me very well. I'm feeling rather delicate so I'm just going to protect myself today. And who knows? Perhaps if I shed a few cathartic tears for Katie Morosky, I'll feel better. ("See 'ya, Hubbell.")

I wish I had a river I could sail away on …

I discovered this Joni Mitchell holiday song last year when I bought myself James Taylor's highly listenable Christmas CD, which (Andy Williams aside) has become the soundtrack of my holidays.

"I'm so hard to handle. I'm selfish and I'm sad …" This wistful little song perfectly captures the other side of Christmas: How reflection on the past year, how all the activity and the traditions of the holidays can leave me feeling vaguely fragile and unhappy.

My uncle is dying oh-so slowly and cruelly from Parkinson's, and I'm angry (not at him, at the disease) that his condition necessarily dictates our holiday plans.

I resent the toll this -- and other Christmas complications, courtesy of the family -- takes on my mom.  

I miss my best friend.

All this leaves me feeling selfish and sad. And I wish I had a river I could sail away on …

Trying so hard to mind my own business …

My nephew is in second grade. He's smart, happy and funny. He's excited about Christmas because he still believes in Santa. He loves his Mommy (my kid sister) very much and is much closer to her than to his dad.

My kid sister has had a bad year. Her husband was out of work for several months, and they didn't have any savings put aside. Now that he's got a job again, they are struggling to get back on their feet. I'd be a lot more sympathetic if she got a job herself, but somehow that never occurred to her. It's not my business. I bite my tongue. I keep to myself. My input is not welcome. (My cash, yes. But input, no.)

It's so hard to keep my trap shut after last Sunday, though. I was telling Nick about Tina and Devin, the kids I bought gifts for as part of a toy drive. Tina's favorite color is red and she wants to go shopping with a Target giftcard. Devin's favorite color is blue and he loves SpongeBob.

Nicky said he thought those were "expensive and silly things to ask for when you're trying to keep from starving." I was shocked.

He went on to tell me how his family "had" to buy a movie theater gift card and an alarm clock/CD player for "poor kids" through church. "Mommy said she didn't want to, but if she didn't, everyone would think we were Scrooges." That is soooo my kid sister! It doesn't matter if you ARE selfish -- only whether or not people think you are selfish.

I told Nicky that I had fun buying and wrapping Tina's and Devin's gifts, that it made me happy. I told him that maybe carrots and a blanket might have been more useful, but who wants useful Christmas presents? Shouldn't kids like Tina and Devin have a little magic on Christmas, too? He was clearly getting confused -- starting to feel disloyal to Mommy -- so I dropped it.

But this conversation hurt my heart, and I just can't stop thinking about it.

He's a sweet boy. A generous boy. He made a deal with his parents -- he would drop out of the lunch program and bring his lunchbox throughout the month of December if they gave him the money for gifts instead. It bothers him that Santa won't come for his big sister this year (she's in high school) and he wants to fill her stocking himself so she won't feel "left out" when he goes through his stocking on Christmas morning.

But he's also his mother's son, not mine. I have to respect that. Be careful what I say, and try to teach him by example, not word.

Friday Fiver #1

I found me a new meme! And you know how I love my memes. I'm surprised by how aggressively not Christmasy this one is.

1. If you could change your name, what would it be? Lady McCartney. I understand it will soon be available again.

2. What is the worst name someone has called you? It's strange, but I can't remember a specific name. My father once told me I had no sense of humor. That stayed with me because that has never been true and it made me sad that he understood me so poorly.

3. If you could meet someone famous, who would it be? I'd like to tell Elizabeth Edwards how much her book meant to me. After all, how often does a book change your life?

4. How do you like to travel home? I take the train to the office and then back home each day. I'd prefer a private car and driver, but somehow the agency doesn't think I'm worth it.

5. What kind of phone to you have? LG cell. GE cordless landline. There! That's something I've never written about before!

For more Friday Fiver information and answers, click here.

THURSDAY THIRTEEN #46 -- Alternative Christmas Movies

THIRTEEN MORE HOLIDAY MOVIES

Yes, I love It’s a Wonderful Life. And the Grinch. Of course I've thrilled to the romance of Rudolph and Clarice. Sure, I've laughed at Ralphie's Christmas misadventures. But here are 13 more holiday movies that you might not automatically think of, may not have already seen this year, but will help you maintain that Christmas feeling as you curl up under a blanket with a mug of something warm.

1. Mr. Magoo’s Christmas Carol. (1962). My favorite version of the timeless tale, possibly because it’s the first one I saw start to finish. Highly relatable and only about an hour long, it’s surprising faithful and filled with songs I still love today (especially “I’m All Alone in the World”) written by Jule Stein and Bob Merrill, who also did Funny Girl. If you have young kids, this is a great way to introduce them to the story.

2. The Family Stone. (2005) The good son, Everett, brings his intended home for Christmas, and his formidable clan gives her a very hard time. I love Diane Keaton as the matriarch, especially in her relationships with her husband (Craig T. Nelson) and her daughter (Rachel McAdams). It all rings very true

3. Holiday. (1939) I believe this is the Great Kate Hepburn at her greatest, most beautiful and most moving. She’s poor little rich girl Linda Seton, trying make sense of her life. Unhappy and misunderstood within a family she still loves, she’s thrilled when her sister brings unconventional, imaginative working class Cary Grant home for the holidays.

4. The Gathering. (1977) A dying man tries to reunite his estranged and far-flung family for one last Christmas celebration. It sounds maudlin but it’s not. It’s a reaffirming tale about the bonds of family. Much of the credit goes to the credit goes to a terrific cast – Ed Asner, Maureen Stapleton, and Gail Strickland.

5. Christmas in Connecticut. (1945) Barbara Stanwyck is a columnist who pretends to be the original Martha Stewart-style homemaker, but she’s really a hardboiled Manhattan fraud. When, as a publicity stunt, her magazine sends a handsome sailor to her “country estate” for a perfect holiday at home, she worries that the truth will come out and her career will be over. Hijinks ensue. It’s very funny, romantic and smart. Stanwyck was a terrific screwball comedienne.

6. Silent Night, Lonely Night. (1969) A made-for-TV movie that’s definitely not family fare but lovely just the same. Shirley Jones and Lloyd Bridges are two strangers who end up spending Christmas at a New England lodge. Their lives are lonely and complicated, and they find comfort in one another’s arms. A poignant story about how raw our emotions can be this time of year.

7. Die Hard. (1988) It is so a Christmas movie! John McClane makes sure the hostages survive their Christmas party, doesn’t he? And don’t forget the note he pins on one of the bad guys, “Now I have a machine gun. Ho, ho, ho.” I love Bruce Willis, and this is the cornerstone of the faith. Have a torn t-shirt and a smirk ever looked better?

8. Miracle on 34th Street. (1947) The bad old non-believers actually try to have Macy’s Santa institutionalized because he maintains he really is Kris Kringle. Maureen O’Hara and Natalie Wood are the lovely but hard-hearted mother and daughter at the center of this tale, and it’s fun to watch them come around and embrace the joy of Christmas.

9. The Thin Man. (1934) Like Die Hard, it doesn’t immediately seem like a Christmas movie, but that is the backdrop. The first of the sophisticated, charming series of Nick and Nora Charles movies does take place over the holidays, and includes a very funny Christmas party, where high-society Nora mingles with the friends of her new husband, a former detective with a colorful past.

10. Love Actually. (2003) A fabulous, life-affirming look at love and romance in many forms. There are so many moments in this movie that delight and touch me. Most of all, watch for Emma Thompson’s reaction to receiving a Joni Mitchell CD from her husband for Christmas. She’ll break your heart.

11. The Desk Set. (1957) The 8th of the 9 films Tracy and Hepburn did together. He’s a computer loving efficiency expert. She’s the head of the research department, and she refuses to allow herself or her staff to be replaced by a machine – not this Christmas! They clash, they flirt, they fall into respect and then into love.

12. Meet Me in St. Louis. (1944). The Smith girls love their St. Louis home. Yet their dad has a lucrative career opportunity in New York. What will they do? I love this movie because really, not very much happens. It’s just a beautiful, sincere slice of life. And it features Garland introducing “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.”

13. An Affair to Remember. (1957) One of the all-time great film romances ends with reformed but still bitter Nickie stopping by to wish his “old friend, Miss McKay, “ a Merry Christmas. Why doesn’t she just get up off the sofa and fly to his arms? Hand me the tissues.

Leave your link in comments and I'll add you here …

1) Driller AA's list is inspirational and truly Christmasy

2) Sniz shows us how expressive and creative scrapbooking can be

3) Carrie Lofty takes us to Italy in the 1950s, as only she can

4) Lori's is a scary trip down memory lane (at least it was for me)

5) Believer in Balance has 13 activities to keep the wee ones busy over the holiday break

6) Greatfullivin has a collection of vintage cartoons that you have to see to believe

7) Sandee shares Christmas quotes

8) Malcolm needs our help on a survey

9) Nicholas has a book TT … with a twist

10) Nap Warden generously shares 13 holiday banners

Get the Thursday Thirteen code here!

The purpose of the meme is to get to know everyone who participates a little bit better every Thursday. Visiting fellow Thirteeners is encouraged! If you participate, leave the link to your Thirteen in others' comments. It’s easy, and fun! Trackbacks, pings, comment links accepted!

View More Thursday Thirteen Participants

A meme to cleanse my palate

I want to write a festive, happy yuletide TT, but I'm not feeling very upbeat or Christmasy (see post below). Thanks to Sassy Lucy for tagging me, giving me something to write about as I transition from blah-blah-blah-blah-blah to fah-la-la-la-la …

Crazy Eights Tag

8 Things I’m passionate about
*The state of our union. I care very deeply about what's going on with this country
*Animal welfare issues -- especially spay/neuter and making adoption everyone's first option
*My own fabulous felines
*The Chicago Cubs
*The Beatles 
*Sir Paul (My adoration is so expansive it deserves two mentions)
*My friends
*My family (esp. my mom, niece and nephew)

8 Things I want to do before I die
*Lose some damn weight (taken verbatim from Sassy Lucy's 8's, but it's a good one for me, too)
*Redo my bathroom and kitchen (I've been planning for 5 years now)
*Visit states I've never been to (like Wyoming, or Alaska)
*Renew my passport (I keep saying I'm gonna …)
*Get rid of all the clutter! I'm not being metaphorical here. My apartment is overrun by paper and stuff!
*Stop fixating and awfulizing
*See a World Series game played in Wrigley Field
*Do more and do better

8 Things I often say
*"My beloved, future Hall of Famer Greg Maddux"
*"The thing of it is …"
*"I, on the other hand, thought it was funny"
*"Can I ask you a question that's none of my business?"
*"Hi, hi, oh, hi!" (Which is gal-speak for, "I'm so glad you called")
*"You know I completely love you, but …"
*"I don't hate Sox fans. I pity them."
*"Sure, I could do that … if I was someone else entirely"

8 Books I’ve recently or currently reading
* American Legacy by C. David Heyman (current)
* Courting Trouble by Lisa Scottoline (current)

* Now and Then by Robert Parker
* Manhunt: The 12 Day Chase for Lincoln's Killer by James L. Swanson
* The Other Woman by Jane Green
* Almost Paradise by Kieran Crowley
* Diana by Sarah Bradford
* Where There's a Will by Rex Stout

8 Songs I could listen to over and over
*The Old Heart of Mine by the Isley Brothers
*River by James Taylor
*I Will by the Beatles
*Lily, Rosemary and the Jack of Hearts by Bob Dylan
*Rosalita by Bruce Springsteen
*Sunday Morning by Maroon 5
*If Only You Knew by Patti LaBelle
*Come See About Me by The Supremes

8 Things that attract me to my best friends
*Sense of humor
*Compassion
*Honesty
*Smarts
*Diversity
*Tolerance
*Love of animals
*They tolerate me

8 People I think should do Crazy 8s
I'm not tagging anyone specifically. But I encourage you to check out these answers, as well as Sassy Lucy's, and then let me know if you decide to play so I can check out your responses.