Memes

I was about to despair at having no memes to do this week, when Carrie open-tagged her readers for an “eight question” post.

Why thank you, Carrie, I think I’ll play along!

While Carrie officially instructed her readers to pick their favorite eight of the sixteen she had received, I have a hard time cutting things down so I just went with all of them–except that I only kept one of the two near-duplicate questions.

Which is why you’re getting (8 questions x 2) – 1

1. What is your favorite children’s book of all time?

I can’t choose. I’m not super attached to little kid children’s books–but I have dozens of early-reader-type chapter books that I love. By which I mean, the Little House books, the Chronicles of Narnia, the Anne of Green Gables series, and a select few others.

2. What is it that you like most about where you live?

I’m close to my family.

3. What is it that you like least about where you live?

I’m close to my family? (Actually, I’m teasing there. I’m not sure exactly. Probably that I’m a renter so I don’t have as much freedom to do whatever I’d like with the house. Then again, I don’t think I’d want to own this house. It wasn’t spectacularly well-built and will probably need a lot of work in the next few years.)

4. Do you have any special fall traditions?

Not really. For all of my life, fall has meant the beginning of school. Next year will be my first year without that, since I’m now working in the private non-academic sector (!) and I should be done with my Master’s by then.

5. What is your favorite holiday, and why?

Christmas. Because… it just is. Because I like an excuse to make crafty stuff for my home. Because I like an excuse to give people things I’ve made. Because I LOVE to feed people. Because it’s a holiday that lasts a month. Because it’s opportunity to spend time with family. And because it’s a celebration of Christ’s birth.

6. Do you still eat sugary kid’s breakfast cereals? Do you have a favorite?

I don’t still eat sugary kid’s breakfast cereals, I now eat sugary kids breakfast cereals. (I never ate them as a kid.) Now I enjoy generic-brand fruit loops every so often (once a week or less).

7. If you could pick any age to stay at (teens, 20’s, 30’s, 100’s), which age would it be?

I don’t know that I’d pick an age to stay at–but I know which age I’ve been internally for quite a while. I think that my soul is the soul of a 35 year old woman. I hypothesize that, while I currently feel older than people my own age (and even many older than me), once I turn 35 I will start feeling younger than everyone.

We’ll see how that little hypothesis turns out.

8. What do you enjoy most, and least about blogging?

Most? Getting compliments. Least? Letting too much of my identity get tied up in how people respond to my blogging.

9. What was your childhood nickname? How did you get it? Are you still called that now? (Oops — I guess that’s three in one!)

One of my first nicknames was “bekahcubed”. I was just learning to talk and my dad asked me what my name was. I responded “Anna” (my older sister’s name.) My dad, concerned that his daughter didn’t know what her name was, replied “No, you’re Bekah. Bekah. Bekah.” He asked me again what my name was. “Anna.” And again and again. New(ish) father that he was (realize that I am only 14 months younger than my older sister), my dad was becoming more and more worried about his daughter. Then he asked me again what my name was and I answered: “I’m Bekah-bekah-bekah!” It was then that he realized that his concern was misplaced. He didn’t have a SLOW daughter–just a playful one! “Bekah-bekah-bekah” became my name–except that it was quickly shortened to bekahcubed (you know, bekah x bekah x bekah = bekah^3)

10. Miracle Whip or mayonnaise?

Depends on what it’s on/with.

11. What is your favorite season and why?

Spring, because I love the contrast of fresh new green grass and soil made soft by the freeze-thaw cycle of winter. Spring, because I love the first day I can take off my shoes and walk barefoot on freshly turned earth. Spring, because I love dropping seeds into the ground and then covering them over. Spring, because I can get back on my bicycle after a long winter’s break. Spring, because there’s fresh lettuce and spinach and rhubarb in the garden. So, yeah. Spring.

12. When you are sick, do you like a lot of attention and pampering, or do you like to be left alone?

What better pampering than to be left alone with a good book and plenty of hot tea?

13. Share one pleasant childhood memory.

I was nine years old, my mom had gone to the hospital. A family friend was taking care of us at our house. Yvonne woke Anna and I up a little after two in the morning to let us know that we had a new baby sister. The boys didn’t find out until morning, but after four boys, Yvonne was thrilled that this was a girl–and she couldn’t help but share her excitement with us.

14. Share a time a hymn ministered to you in a special way.

I was overwhelmed by what lay before me. God ministered to me through “Trust and Obey”.

I experienced a great sorrow. God ministered to me again through “Trust and Obey.”

It seemed like I had no direction. God ministered to me again through “Trust and Obey.”

I have a new job in a new city. My heart is conflicted. God is still ministering to me through “Trust and Obey.”

15. Describe your favorite coffee mug (or show us a photo of it). Why do you like it?

Hmm-I don’t really have a favorite coffee mug. I generally drink my coffee or tea out of a generic looking blue mug with a somewhat rounded shape. I like it because it’s bigger than the souvenir-style mugs.

So tell me now–what about you? Answer a question or two in the comments–or do the whole thing on your own blog or as a Facebook note. I’d love to hear your answers!

And yes, I just used the word “gender”. Because this time I’m actually talking about the social constructs of male and female rather than the biological differences between male and female (for the most part).

“First Things” has a list of 50 Things a Woman Should be Able to Do and 50 Things a Woman Should Never Do.

They also have a nice little list of 50 Things a Man Should be Able to Do and 50 Things a Man Should Never Do.

Just for the record, I don’t agree with everything on the lists. But I do think they’re kind of fun/funny.

So here’s my game. Choose a gender (whichever you prefer to identify with) and give yourself two points for every item you have done on the “50 Things a ___ Should be able to do”. Now take away two points for every item you have done on the “50 Things a ___ Should Never Do”.

Then tell us your points and give some comments.

Here, I’ll start.
I’m a woman

+ (28×2) – (6×2) = 44

Okay, so those first fifteen–the Proverbs 31 ones? So not fair.

So I don’t do much that I shouldn’t–but I ought to do tons more.

Yep, that pretty much describes me, right folks? :-)

After performing so awfully as a woman, I’m wondering if I’d make a better man.

Me as a man

+(22×2) – (5×2) = 34

Yeah, um. This is ridiculous. I’m a rather accomplished woman, but I only score a 44 on the woman one. And I’d make an AWFUL man (just ask my brothers), yet I can score a 34 on the man one? There’s something wrong with this picture.

Can anybody beat me for femininity or masculinity (as defined by this silly little game I just made up?)

Give it a try and leave your score in the comments.

So tell me about your life.

I died and my life is hidden with Christ in God. (Col. 3:3)

Who do you have texts from?

Joshua, Steve, Facebook, Dad, Anna, Daniel, Johnna, Mom, Timothy, Grace, John

What’s the last thing you touched, other than your computer?

My phone to see who I might have texts from :-)

Who was the last person you had a conversation with on the phone?

Anna

Quote from a song that’s in your head?

Oh-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh. It’s a Chris Tomlin song =)

Have you faced any of your fears lately?

Sorta.

What did your last text say, and what does it have to do with?

“I’ll be there”–telling my brother I’ll come over to his house to watch the Nebraska game today.

How do you feel about girls smoking?

I feel like anyone smoking is irresponsible and unhealthy. At the same time, I recognize the difficulties of breaking addictions and try to receive smokers (as all others) with grace and acceptance.

Do you prefer the ocean or pool?

Gimme the ocean any day!

Are you outgoing or more shy?

I’d say I’m more outgoing–but I do require a certain bit of alone time.

Are you wearing jeans right now?

Nope. But I did wear jeans yesterday ;-)

Did you sleep in past noon today?

No way. I don’t think I’ve done that in five years.

Would you ever get a tattoo?

Probably not. I don’t really enjoy pain that much–and tattoos are permanent. Now, henna? Maybe.

Do you miss your past?

No–why miss the past when you can live in the present and look forward to the future?

Would you be able to date someone who doesn’t make you laugh?

Are you talking “go on a date with” or “date long term”? ‘Cause I’d go on a date with–after all, how do I know whether he makes me laugh unless I get to know him? Now, after getting to know him, if he doesn’t make me laugh every so often… (Then again, I don’t think there’s anyone I’ve really gotten to know who didn’t eventually make me laugh.)

Have you argued with anyone today?

No

Where is the biggest scar on your body and from what?

Not sure–I haven’t got a lot of scars, and the ones I do have are pretty little. Probably either the scar from the mole I had removed (I must have waited too long to get the stitches removed) or the one under my chin from the time I fell flat on my face in the street and took a chunk out of my chin.

When was the last time someone held your hand?

Someone held mine or I held someone’s? I held Gracie’s on Monday after she learned that her good friend’s mother died. It’s been awhile since someone held my hand.

Is there one person you look at and automatically smile?

Actually, several.

Who’s jacket did you wear last?

Mine.

Is there something you’re looking forward to?

Sure.

What are you sitting on right now?

A chair.

What are your initials?

RMM

What was the last thing you wore that was black?

My shoes. Ballet flats.

Do you have alcohol in your house?

Yes. Ridiculous amounts for the small amount I actually consume. I’ll probably have it until the day I die (unless I give it away to my brothers)

When did you go to bed last night?

1:30ish–I was stove-jobbing on a new planner (but it’s almost done!)

Do you have somewhere you hide things you don’t want anyone else to find?

No.

Is there beer in your refrigerator at the moment?

I’m not really a beer fan–and my roommate doesn’t drink. Nah.

Have you ever been in the shower when the power went out?

No. That’s an odd question.

Where do you like to go when you want to be alone?

The library or a park or my room. Wherever no one’s at :-)

Is there anyone you have been avoiding lately?

Not consciously.

Do you still keep in touch with your most recent ex?

Yes, I guess you could say that.

What are your plans for the evening?

Grading papers. Writing book reviews. Cleaning house. Reading a book. Likely something “boring” (that I find absolutely wonderful.)

What was the last movie you watched?

My family and other animals.

Did you watch that last movie in the theater?

No–I watched it at my parents’ home theatre with my sister-in-law

What was the last song you listened to?

“The Black Gate is Closed” from The Two Towers soundtrack

Who was the last person to give you any kind of advice?

My dad

What would happen if you were locked in a room with your last ex?

Um-I’m not sure. We would try to get out?

Do you remember what your last dream was about?

I thought I did, but now I can’t remember.

What do you think of the last person of the opposite sex that texted you?

Steve? He’s like a brother. He’s been my brother’s best friend for the past dozen years.

How tall are you?

5’10” or so

The person you have the strongest feelings for dies, you care?

Duh. Isn’t that kind of obvious?

Do you want anything right now?

Yes. But I am not in want of anything right now. My God has graciously provided all my needs–and many of my desires.

Do you still talk to your ex?

Didn’t you ask this already?

Is there anybody you wish you could be spending time with right now?

Yes.

Do you believe what comes around goes around?

That’s sorta a truism, isn’t it? If something is traveling a circular path (“around”), it will both come towards a point and go away from the point. As far as the “you get what you dish” idea, eh. There’s some Biblical support for that (Luke 6:38), but why use a cliche if you can help it? Find some real Scripture to use.

How’s 2010 been for you?

It’s been…challenging. Emotionally, spiritually, intellectually, professionally. You name it. It’s been tough. But God has been faithful and I trust in His sovereign plan.

Will you be in a relationship in the next couple months?

You mean dating, right? I don’t know.

Do you lose interest in people easily?

I don’t think so.

Delete a year of your life, or start over in a new town?

I’ll start over in a new town. Planning on doing so in January anyway.

Any part of you sad at all?

Yes-I’ve got a melancholy streak, and memes often seem designed to bring those out.

What is stressing you out most right now?

The uncertainty of life. Wanting what I can’t have.

Today’s date?

September 11, 2010–9 years.

Who did you text the most last night?

I didn’t text anyone last night

What color are your eyes?

Blue

Do you think if you died, that the last person you texted would even care?

Yes, he probably would.

Who was the last person you physically hit?

One of my brothers, I’m sure. (Hopefully John–after that bruise he gave me on Sunday….)

(The bruise was accidental, by the way–he’s really a great guy–just really strong–and I bruise easily–and he was just trying to startle me. But I totally looked like a battered woman.)

Who was the last person you hugged?

Gracie.

Do you wish anyone in particular was still in your life?

Sure.

Who were you with the last time you went to the mall?

No one. I sat and crocheted, practicing aloneness in the midst of a crowd.

Ever liked someone older than you?

Yep.

I bet your going to kiss someone tonight, right?

Probably not.

Oxya’s first album, “Sacrifice my wife’s brother”, is sure to be an absolute hit.

You can download it via a link here at bekahcubed for a single low price of $9.99 for 15 songs, or you can order the old-fashioned CD for $24.99 plus shipping and handling. Why such a high price for the CD when the disc and case costs less than $0.50?

Because the album cover is totally worth it. Check it out!

(Modified from an original image by Allie_Caulfield)

If you haven’t figured out yet, this is completely bogus.

My little sister “tagged” me in a Facebook meme with the following instructions:

1 – Click on the link to get a random wikipedia article. The title of the article is your band’s name. (My band)

2 – Click on the link to get a Random Quotation from “Quotations Page.com”. The last four or five words of the very last quote of the page is the title of your first album. (The quote that inspired my album)

3 – Click on a link to get some random photos from the last seven days on flickr. Third picture, no matter what it is, will be your album cover. (I, because I did not want to violate copyright, instead went to Yahoo Images Search and selected “Only from Flickr.com” under Site/Domain and “Creator Allows Reuse–Remix, Tweak, Build Upon” for Creative Common License. I used “image” as my search term–although you could also use “random” or another vague word.)

4 – Use photoshop or similar to put it all together. (I, being a frugal soul, use the free, open-source GIMP as my photo editing software. It’s not quite as user-friendly so I’m told, but I generally can figure out how to work it from a Photoshop tutorial–and the price is right!)

5 – Post it to FB with this text in the “caption” and TAG the friends you want to join in. (Being somewhat unfond of placing images on Facebook–or of allowing Facebook rights to any of my creative works, for that matter–I chose to share my album on bekahcubed rather than on Facebook.)

Gracie complains that bekahcubed is too boring and gives that as the reason why she doesn’t read. I’m inclined to think boring is in the eye of the beholder–but because I’d love to have her read, I’m including some stuff she might find interesting.

At least I’m assuming she’d find this meme interesting, since I stole it from her!

Have you ever….
(I wasn’t supposed to elaborate on any of these unless asked. So, there you go.)

Q: Kissed someone on your (Facebook) friends list?
No
Q: Been arrested?
No
Q: Do you like someone?
Yes
Q: Held a snake?
Yes
Q: Been suspended from school?
No
Q: Sang karaoke?
Yes
Q: Done something you told yourself you wouldn’t do?
Yes
Q: Laughed until you started crying?
Yes
Q: Caught a snowflake on your tongue?
Yes
Q: Kissed in the rain?
No
Q: Sang in the shower?
Yes
Q: Sat on a roof top?
Yes
Q: Been pushed into a pool with all your clothes on?
No
Q: Broken a bone?
Yes
Q: Shaved your head?
No
Q: Played a prank on someone?
Yes
Q: Shot a gun?
No
Q: Donated Blood?
Yes

Who was the last person…

1. You hung out with?
Anna, Casandra, Joanna, Erin, Amber, Kim, Jeremy, Steve, Tim, and John
2. You texted?
Mary
3. You were in a car with?
Anna
5. You missed?
Can’t say
6. You called?
Mom
7. Made you laugh?
John B
8. You hugged?
Dana

This or that?

1. Sun or moon? Moon
Sun
2. Winter or Summer?
Summer
3. Left or Right?
Right
4. Sunny or rainy?
Sunny (with a thunderstorm midafternoon)
5. Where do you live?
Lincoln, NE
6. Club or pub?
Club sandwich over pub burger
7. Are there 1 or 2 people who you can always trust and rely on?
Yes
8. Do you want to get married?
Yes
9. Do you twirl your spaghetti or cut it?
Both
10. What time is it?
0824
11. Are you afraid of commitment?
Doubt it
12. What is your greatest hope/wish?
That God would be glorified through me
13. Do you cook?
Yes
14. Current mood?
Struggling to come up with a mood…

In the last 48 hours, have you…

1. Kissed someone?
Nope
2. Sang?
Worship songs for a half hour or so in the car
3. Listened to music?
Lots of traveling yesterday, so lots of music too (borrowed CDs from the library)
4. Danced Crazy?
No, unless you count the little dance I did trying to get the gang to guess “boogie board” last night.
5. Cried?
Yes, but I can’t remember why. All I know is I had some tears seeping out of my eyes. I was talking with Casandra–but I can’t even remember if they were happy, sad, or indifferent tears.
6. Liked someone you can’t have?
Yes

25 Firsts….

1. Who was your first prom date?
Never been
2. Who was your first roommate?
Anna
3. What was your first alcoholic beverage?
James Arthur Vineyard’s “San Realto”–Amazing.
4. What was your first job?
Washing dishes for my across the street neighbor
5. What was your first car?
Benny–short for Benedick (as in from Much Ado about Nothing). Oh, he was a Chevy… What model was he? That’s right, a Cavalier
6. When was your first funeral and viewing?
When my little cousin was born stillborn
8. Who was your first grade teacher?
See Cast of Characters on sidebar: Mom
9. Where did you go on your first ride on an airplane?
Seward, Nebraska–a JAARS plane. Next ride? Sweden.
11. Who was your first Best Friend?
Anna
12. Who is your best friend?
I’m not sure if I have a “best friend”. I have a number of close friends who are like family to me (or are family to me). See my “cast of characters” sidebar for more info.
13. Where was your first sleepover?
Ariann’s
14. Who is the first person you call when you have a bad day?
My mom
15. Who’s wedding were you in the first time you were a Bridesmaid or groomsman?
Tiffany’s (Grace complains that she won’t be in mine–I appreciate very small wedding parties.)
16. What’s the first thing you did when you got up this morning?
Made my bed–it’s a habit
17. What was the first concert you went to?
SonicFlood. They were loud.
18. What was the last concert you went to?
East High’s year-end revue
19. First tattoo or piercing?
Ears, eight years old. Got infection. Never again.
20. First celebrity crush?
Not really into celebs
22. First crush?
Kyle Pitman (stolen from my sister when I was six or seven)
23. Current Crush?
It’s been a while since I had a crush–I’m getting a bit old for that.

…And now it’s off to babysit a couple of my favorite kids. Yippee!!!

It’s the song meme that’s making the rounds in my little group of Facebook friends. You place your MP3 player on shuffle and write down the titles of each of the first twenty songs that come up.

1. What do your friends think of you?
Like Humans Do (David Byrne)

I’m achin,
I’m shakin’,
I’m breakin’
like humans do

2. If someone says, “Is this okay?” You say?
The Lord of the Rings V-Hobbit (Arvika Stadsmusikkår-Instrumental Score)

3. How would you describe yourself?
Beethoven’s Symphony No 9. (Seattle Symphony)

4. What do you like in a guy/girl?
Highway Blues (Marc Seales-Jazz)

5. How do you feel today?
A Delicate Balance (Dan La Maestra-Jazz)

6. What is your life’s purpose?
As Night Falls (David Bach-Jazz)

7. What is your motto?
Larry Brown (Larry Brown-Jazz)

8. What do you think about very often?
Blues for Charlie (Royce Campbell-Jazz)

9. What do you think of your best friend?
Blue Stomp (Gary Smulyan-Jazz)

10. What do you think of the person you like?
Come Rain, Come Shine (Maija)

I’m gonna love you like nobody’s loved you,
Come rain or come shine.
High as a mountain and deep as a river,
Come rain or come shine.

Well I guess when you met me
That it was just one of those things,
But don’t you ever bet me,
‘Cause I’m gonna be true if you let me.

~Lyrics by Johnny Mercer

11. What is your life story?
La Vie en Rose (Danielle Westphal)

When he takes me in his arms
And speaks softly to me,
I see life in rosy hues. (La Vie en Rose)
He tells me words of love,
Words of every day,
And in them I become something.
He has entered my heart,
A part of happiness
Whereof I understand the reason.
It’s he for me and I for him, throughout life,
He has told me, he has sworn to me, for life.
And from the things that I sense,
Now I can feel within me
My heart that beats.

~Translation by Thomas Keyes

12. What do you want to be when you grow up?
Do Nothin’ Till You Hear From Me (Bill Harris)

13. What do you think of when you see the person you like/love? Escapade (Stephanie Akasian)

“It was just a summer escapade
A sudden enchanting shore
that happened once or twice before
It wasn’t meant to last
I’m not a child who has to pretend
Let it fade into the glow of waning light”

~Words by William Benton (I think)

14. What will you dance to at your wedding?
Preta Porter de Tafeta (Leonard Lucini-Blues)
Yeah, probably not.

15. What will they play at your funeral?
Fragile (The Dave Anderson Trio-Jazz)
Ditto the above.

16. What is your hobby/interest?
Frenzy (James Bazen-Jazz)
The title says it all.

17. What is your biggest fear?
Gabalot (Michael J. Harris)
Remarkably weird song. I have no idea why I have this, but it’s…strange.

18. What is your biggest secret?
Gonna Build a Mountain (Ericka Ovette)

Gonna build me a daydream.
From a little hope.
Gonna push that daydream.
Up the mountain slope.
Gonna build a daydream.
Gonna see it through.
Gonna build a mountain and a daydream.
Gonna make them both come true.

~Lyrics by (Does anyone know?–this was performed by Sammy Davis Jr. in the olden days :-)

19. What do you think of your friends?
Adoro te devote (Gregorian Sense)

Adoro te devote, latens Deitas,
Quæ sub his figuris vere latitas;
Tibi se cor meum totum subjicit,
Quia te contemplans totum deficit.

Translated:
Prostrate I adore Thee, Deity unseen,
Who Thy glory hidest ‘neath these shadows mean;
Lo, to Thee surrendered, my whole heart is bowed,
Tranced as it beholds Thee, shrined within the cloud.

~Lyrics by Thomas Aquinas

20.What will you post this as?
Requiem-Agnus Dei (Gregorian Sense)

Agnus Dei, qui tollis peccata mundi, dona eis requiem,
Agnus Dei, qui tollis peccata mundi, dona eis requiem,
Agnus Dei, qui tollis peccata mundi, dona eis requiem sempiternam.

Translation:
Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world,
grant them rest,
Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world,
grant them rest,
Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world,
grant them eternal rest.

I think there might be some disadvantages to my remarkably eclectic tastes in music–and my reluctance to actually purchase music while still insisting on not listening to pirated music. Most of these songs are probably completely unfamiliar to the rest of the world, since I got them here and there as one band or another was giving away a free MP3. This particular set is rather heavy on Jazz (and is composed entirely of free music–no purchased titles.)

Nevertheless, a few of them were remarkably apt.

if I don’t give you something a bit lighter than all this theological fare (Sorry, I’m currently living a boring life. Thesis, thesis, and more thesis with the occasional craft project or backed up sink thrown in.)

Thankfully, whenever I see a nice little meme that someone else has done, I’ll copy it and keep it in reserve for one of those days when I really don’t have much to say (but haven’t the discipline to just ignore the lure of the gray and white WordPress screen!)

This meme, held in reserve for a week and a half, is brought to you by Joanne of The Simple Wife.

What color are your socks right now?
I’m not wearing socks. It’s summer and I’m not working. Instead of my work-day loafers or pumps, I’m wearing slip-ons without socks.

What are you listening to right now?
The ceiling fan and my computer humming.

What was the last thing you ate?
Grapes and a bing cherry.

Can you drive a stick?
Nope. Never learned.

Last person you spoke to on the phone?
My landlady’s machine :-)

How old are you today?
25

What is your favorite sport to watch on TV?
I don’t do tv. Or sports. But when I have access to a tv, I enjoy watching figure skating (if that can be considered a sport). And watching a Nebraska football game with a whole crew of family and friends at my folks’ house is always nice.

What is your favorite drink?
Water

Have you ever dyed your hair?
Once, in order to be “Posh Spice” for a costume party. I dyed it a darker version of itself.

Favorite food?
Oh my. Too many to count. My mom’s Swedish meatballs. Lasagna. Spaghetti with Mom’s sauce. Cornbread and Chip-beef gravy. Tomato soup and grilled cheese sandwiches. Anna’s BBQ pizza. Green beans fresh from the garden. Sweet potatoes, baked with nothing on them. Homegrown tomatoes, sliced and eaten plain. I love food in general–and all of it in particular :-)

What is the last movie you watched?
Good question. Whatever it was, I didn’t so much WATCH it as I crocheted through it. (It was on Saturday the third. We pretty much had a marathon of movie watching. I can’t remember what any of the 3? movies we watched were. But I got a washcloth crocheted and half of a tea towel embroidered!)

Favorite day of the year?
Christmas

How do you vent anger?
Dunno. It’s been a while since I got to the “need-a-vent” point with anger. (Knock on wood :-P) I find it much easier to experience provocation, pray, and let God release the anger.

What was your favorite toy as a child?
My little siblings. Books. My bicycle.

Favorite Season?
Spring, when the green grass pokes through the winter-moistened earth with stunning contrast. And when I can put my bare feet in said earth as I plant a vegetable garden.

Cherries or Blueberries?
Cherries if it’s in homemade (Mom-made) cherry pie using cherries from her tree.
Blueberries if I’m not footing the bill.
Bing cherries when I’m feeling like luxury.

Living situation?
Rent a townhouse. Have a roommate. Am hoping the landlord’s jimmying managed to get the kitchen sink draining properly.

When was the last time you cried?
Yesterday.

What is on the floor of your closet right now?
A crate of professional paperwork.
A shelf of shoes. A laundry basket.
Same as always.

What are you most afraid of?
Being hung by my belly-button :-P
And other things I can’t mention so glibly. My brothers dying. That I’ll mope and pout my way through God’s plan instead of trusting and enjoying His provision. That I’ll squander my life on the temporal instead of investing in the eternal.

Plain, cheese, or spicy hamburgers?
Not a big burger fan, but I guess I like many things spicy.

Favorite dog breed?
Big. And outdoor, if at all possible.

Favorite day of the week?
Do people really have favorite days of the week?

How many states have you lived in?
One.

Diamonds or pearls?
I’d love for that to be my dilemma, but I don’t have high hopes of it being so anytime soon (or anytime ever, for that matter.)

What is your favorite flower?
Well, ranunculus is my favorite flower NAME
And TULIPs are John Calvin approved :-)
I can’t really say. I like flowers, period, but don’t have a favorite.

Did you get an H1N1 vaccine?
Nope. I was poor and busy. But I do try to get the seasonal flu vaccine every year. Flu is nasty stuff, and since I have been known to work in institutions (hospitals and residence halls) and among immuno-compromised individuals (hospitals and nursing homes), I don’t like to risk it.

Please play along with one or all of the questions in the comments. I’d love to learn more about you!

My family doesn’t feud. We prefer fun and food.

But as I’m incredibly busy preparing for this upcoming family wedding–I’m gonna play along with a little meme found on Facebook (via Gracebug, of course.)

Feel free to play along–in the comments or otherwise!

1. Name something you use in the shower .
shower gel

2. Name something a football player wears as his uniform.
pants

3. Name something people hate to find on their windshield.
bird poop

4. Name something a man might buy before a date.
antiperspirant

5. What’s another word for blemish
error

6. Something you ‘d cook in the microwave
nachos

7. Name a piece of furniture people need help moving
refrigerator

8. Name a reason a younger man might like an older woman.
wisdom?

9. Name something a dog does that embarrasses its owner.
humps a couch

10. Name a kind of test you can not study for .
SAT (He, he, he!)

11. Name something a boy scout gets a badge for
Cooking (!)

12. Name a phrase with the word ‘Home’ in it
Home sweet home

13. Name a sport where players lose teeth
Rugby

14. Name something a teacher can do to ruin a student’s day
give them an F

15. What is a way you can tell someone has been crying
red eyes

16. Name something found under a car
oil spill (that’s not cheating if Grace said oil, is it?)

17. Name a bird you wouldn’t want to eat
buzzard vulture

18. Name something that gets folded
paper airplanes

19. Name something that gets smaller the more you use it
bar of soap

20. Name something you might do first thing in the morning
eat breakfast :-)