Saturday Survey: Revisited

It's the 4th of July holiday weekend, and I am really excited to enjoy this nice weather we're finally having. This is the first long weekend that we've actually got the opportunity to have a few plans going; typically I don't know what we're going to do and we end up winging it. Today, the kiddies and I are going to our town's Family Day - complete with carnivals & fireworks. Tonight my son is having a friend sleepover - and then tomorrow we're going to a family BBQ. Tomorrow night - more fireworks, and then on the 4th - another family BBQ and more fireworks. Nothing is more fun on a hot summer night, then a good round of fireworks!

So in an effort to stay true to my Saturday posting of surveys - here is today's random things that you may or may not already know - or wanted to know - about me.

Coke or Pepsi? - Neither. I don't like tonic.
Regular pool or heated pool? - I'd take either. I just want a flipping pool.
Hot tea or ice tea? - Hot tea.
Sunflower or daisy? - Sunflower. Especially the bright red ones....
Red rose or pink rose? - Pink Rose.
Salt or pepper? - Salt. Preferably sea salt.
Red or Green Apple? - Green Apple, but of course...
Red or Blue? - Blue.
Christmas or Thanksgiving? - Christmas. No better time of year...
Pink or Green? - Green
Hamburger or Hotdogs? - Hot dog.
Music or Movies? - Music... words and music, words and music.....
Heaven or hell? - Heaven. That's a stupid question.
Comedy or horror? - I hate horror movies.
aol or aim? - I don't use either.
ipod or mp3? - MP3 all the way.
Purse or backpack? - Purse.
Parision or Sears? - Don't know what Parision is, but I've seen the softer side of Sears - and liked it.
Paris or France? - Hello, but isn't Paris in France...? I'd say all of France
Milky Way or Sneakers? - Um, I think they meant "Snickers." Milky way
Vanilla or Chocoloate? - The person who created this survey can't spell, clearly. Vanilla...
Phone or Internet? - Nothing beats a good phone conversation....
Steak or Shrimp? - That's a tough one. Depends on my mood.
School or Work? - My school days are over kiddies.... it's all about work.

Saturday Survey...

(Courtesy of Dawn)

Outside my window... the little bit of snow that fell last night is glistening in the bright sunshine.

I am thinking... that I hope the kiddies don't tear each other apart today! They both woke up with a touch of a stomach bug, so we are just spending the day in and relaxing. Could be a good thing....could be a war zone. Time will tell....

I am thankful for... all that I have, and I don't mean that materialistically. I have a beautiful family, fabulous friends - and to quote Steven Tyler "I don't want to miss a thing...."

From the kitchen... Hmmm. Not sure since the little one's don't feel that great. Might be a boring chicken broth kind of day. I did make a delicious pork roast last night though.

I am wearing... A Red Sox tshirt and pajama pants. Certainly nothing glamourous!

I am creating... Nothing at the moment. I did re-create the employee schedule for the store the other day, but again - nothing glamourous.

I am going... to catch up on my laundry. (ho-hum. So little glamour here...)

I am reading... The Lost Symbol by Dan Brown. It's okay; not as good as Angels & Demons but it's starting to pick up a bit.

I am hoping... that we get good news regarding our mortgage this week so we can put an offer on the house we really, really, really want.

I am hearing... Spongebob Squarepants. Ugh.

Around the house... is lots of sunshine through the windows. And happily, very little dust...

One of my favorite things... is sushi. Can't have enough of it. Yes, I'm addicted. Truth.

I don't understand... how people can treat children so horribly in this state and not suffer the death penalty for their abuse. It's disgusting and the cases keep getting worse and worse - each story of the torment that these children are suffering through and dying from keep becoming more atrocious. What will it take for someone to finally punish these people in the manner in which they deserve?

I wish... I can't share my wishes...they won't come true if I do.

A few plans for the rest of the week... I'm not really sure what my plans are for this week. It's still too early to tell -- except that Princess Petunia and I have a date to see "Beastly" on it's opening night!

A picture to share... Princess Petunia at the beach this past summer.

Right now.....

Borrowed courtesy of Dawn! If you use it - let me know!

Outside my window: Snow, snow...and more snow.

I am thinking: That my kids are suspiciously quiet at the moment....ah yes, it's video game captivation.

I am thankful for: The health of my family and the stability of our lives.


From the kitchen: I can smell the cranberry cider candle that is burning. And it smells good....

I am wearing: yoga pants & a under armour stretchy shirt.

I am creating: A path in life that hopefully will be one of example for my children.

I am going: To my girlfriend's house tonight to spend time with some of my best friends.

I am reading: Nothing. I don't have the time, and I have yet to find something that catches my interest. Make suggestions, please!!

I am hoping: that the house we're going to look at tomorrow is a good fit - and one that isn't in a rush to sell just yet. This is not the time of year to put a house on the market.

I am hearing: noises from my children...of course the quiet wouldn't last forever.

Around the house: I have lots of photographs of our family. I love, love, love candid shots in a home.

One of my favorite things: The smell of food cooking in the oven. Nothing says "home" like a delicious meal cooking.


I don't understand: Why people just can't do their job. It seems like no one ever does things right the first time....

I wish: Cancer would go away.

A few plans for the rest of the week: I have two wine tastings I'm hosting during the week - and then one at a black tie affair a week from tonight. At least that one I get to dress up for!

A picture to share... Myself & my little cousin who was my flower girl at my wedding! Hard to believe that she was 4 then - and now she's 18!

Saturday Survey....

It's been a while since I've posted a Saturday survey....and since I'm sitting here with a glass of wine and relaxing I figure, what the heck! Now is as good of a time as any, right?

So without further adieu - here is tonight's random trivia about, you guessed it - moi.

1. When you looked at yourself in the mirror today, what was the first thing you thought? How badly I'm in need of a good haircut.

2. How much cash do you have on you? Nada. I'm sitting on the sofa w/ a glass of wine. My wallet is no where near me.

3. What’s a word that rhymes with DOOR? Roar. As in "I am woman, hear me..."

4. Favorite planet? "Venus, Goddess of Love that you are...." Mmmkay, that might be the wine talking. I don't have a "favorite" planet per se, though I suppose one should suggest Earth.

5. Who is the 4th person on your missed call list on your cell phone? My sister in law.

6. What is your favorite ring tone on your phone? I don't have one. The rings on the Crackberry are less than fun.

7. What shirt are you wearing? A big ol' beige Champion sweatshirt. Cozy, but not at all cute.

8. Do you label yourself? No. I don't agree with labels on people. Aren't we always evolving? I aspire to, anyway. I certainly hope to never be stagnant and always learn and grow.

9. Name the brand of the shoes you’re currently wearing? How's about socks? These bad boys would be Hanes, I believe...

10. Bright or Dark Room? Bright...lots of lovely light.

11. Did you do anything to celebrate John Lennon's 70th yesterday? It was his birthday yesterday? Damn, I missed it. Kidding... No, of course not.

12. What does your watch look like? They look lonely in my jewelery box. I don't wear watches.

13. What were you doing at midnight last night? Sleeping.

14. What did your last text message you received on your cell say? 4pm. The time of the showing of my house today.

15. Where is your nearest 7-11? Beats me. There aren't any in my town. There's one right across the street from my Boston store though!

16. What’s a word that you say a lot? Clearly.

17. Who told you he/she loved you last? Princess Petunia.

18. Last furry thing you touched? This question is always on these things. My cat Twinkle, about a second ago.

19. How many drugs have you done in the last three days? I've been popping a ton of Advil for this headache I've had for the last three days. That's about the strongest thing I take my friends.

20. How many rolls of film do you need developed? I don't have any rolls to be developed but I do have many albums on Snapfish to print.

21. Favorite age you have been so far? I've loved them all, truly. Each day is a gift, and I mean that sincerely.
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22. Your worst enemy? Myself.

23. What is your current desktop picture? A favorite picture of the kids.

24. What was the last thing you said to someone? Good night.

25. If you had to choose between a million bucks or to be able to fly what would it be? A million dollars. I can always rent a jet -- but I could make a million into ten million and always be able to spread the wealth.

Saturday Survey....

It's been some time since I posted a survey on Saturday... so here we go!

1. If you could have named yourself, which name would you have chosen, and why?
Gina. No one messes with Gina.
But other than that, I always liked the name Catherine.

2. If you could relive a year in your life, what age would it be, and why?
I don't know truthfully. They were all great years, with good and bad things alike. I can't answer that one, I can't pick just one.

3. If you could go back and change one friendship in your past, who would it have been, and why?
Now this is a good question. There are a few friendships I'd have liked to have done without.... but the one I'd have changed, probably would've been the one that was the most important to me growing up. It wouldn't have been a change of the friendship per se, but a change of my reaction to the changes that occured in the friendship. I'd have not be so quick to cut every one off and distance myself (Clearly, my feelings had been hurt. Typical defense mechanism, right?) and I'd have been more laid back about it realizing that it wouldn't have stayed that way forever. But, I was young - and these are life lessons we don't always have until we mature, and learn grace.

4. If you could have dated one person in your past that you did not date, who would it be, and why?
Hmmm. I don't know actually. I mean in school, there were boys that I wished liked me - but they didn't. I don't regret not dating them though. (Wait, does Jason Varitek count???)

6. If you had the opportunity to live in another country, which one would it be, and why? If you choose NOT to live in another country, why do you want to stay in your current country?
I would never live in any country other than ours. Never. It does not require an explanation.
I would however, consider dual residency with the following: Italy, France, Grand Cayman Islands.

7. If you could choose your dream job, what would it be, and why?
My dream job has changed so many times over the years. I'd say while I never really knew that it would be this particular field -- running my own store is pretty darn close.

8. If you could wish a wish and it be guaranteed to come true (other than riches) what would it be, and why?
Ah, but if I tell you my wish -- it won't come true......

9. If you could meet two blogger friends (you may choose more, if you wish) who would they be?
Nichole, Suldog, Dawn, Sarah.... and sure, I'd love to meet everyone - that goes without saying.

It's those lazy, hazy, crazy days of summer....

And around these parts, it seems like we can't get enough of them. Seriously, I'm so all set with rain. And to emphasize that point, the kiddies and I are spending the afternoon at my girlfriend's pool; my daughter is spending the night with her - which is a fun thing for both her and us! Tonight while she's having a camp out with my girlfriend, we're going to take my son someplace and we'll have a little one and one time with him. My girlfriend says she wants to take my son another weekend, and when she does, we'll have a little one on one time with my daughter. She's really so good to my kiddies.

So, in honor of the lovely leisurely Saturday we're going to have -- I'm kicking it "I'm Just A Girl" old school and posting my Saturday survey.

1. Are you taller than your mom?
No, I'm the shortest in the family at 5'1. (I prefer to say I'm "petite".)

2. Do you have a favorite type of pen?
I love, love, love Sharpies. They make my handwriting look pretty.

3. Look at your planner for October 14, what are you doing?
I'm not booked out that far. Ask me about September 14th and that's a different story.

4. What color are your toenails usually?
"Its a Doozy says Suzi" or "Suzi says Da". Today they're "Midnight in Moscow". Clearly, I love the Russian Collection from OPI

5. What was the last thing you highlighted?
I highlighted some items on an invoice two days ago.

6. What color are the curtains in your bedroom?
I dont have curtains. Sure it's lousy at 6 a.m. but I love a bright room. Throw the blankets over your head, and truly - if I'm that tired, nothing's waking me up.

7. What color are the seats in your car?
Tan leather

8. Have you ever had a black and white cat?
Yes, little Miss Meritage (often called Bordeaux) at the store. She's black and white.

9. What is the last thing you put a stamp on?
An envelope

10. Do you know anyone who lives in Wyoming?
No, but I wish I did. I always wanted to go on a dude ranch in Jackson Hole.

11. Why did you withdraw cash from the ATM the last time?
I haven't used an ATM in years -- who needs to when you have Debit accessibility.

12. Who is the last baby that you held?
I think it was my nephew Jacob.

13. Can you spell well?
Exceptionally well, truth be told. (though I'm not spell checking, so I hope there aren't typos in this!)

14. Do you like Cinnamon toothpaste?
Eh, it's okay. A little too much sugar to make my mouth feel clean.

15. What kind of car were you driving 2 years ago?
Same one that I'm driving now.

16. Pick one: Miami Hurricanes or Florida Gators?
Seriously?!?! Don't you know I'm from Boston!?!?

17. Last time you went to Six Flags?
Never. I am so not an amusement park kind of girl.

18. Favorite lunching place
Any place that has fantastic sushi.

19. Closest thing to you that is yellow?
A picture my daughter drew with a highlighter this a.m.

20. Last person you gave a business card?
Hmm. I think it might have been the ABCC inspector.

21. Who is the last person you wrote a check to?
My sitter.

22. Closest framed picture to you?
Princess Petunia's Pre-K shot.

23. Last time you had someone cook for you?
My MIL.

24. Have you ever been to the moon?
Seriously?? Seriously.

25. How many emails do you get in your inbox daily (excluding spam)?
Maybe 4-5 legitimate ones on an average day; depends on if I'm working on a particular project though, there could be more.

26. Last time you received flowers?
One of my girlfriends gave me a pretty planted gerber daisy at the brunch I threw this spring.

28. Do you play air guitar?
Nope.

29. Has anyone ever proposed to you?
But of course... G.

30. Do you take anything in your coffee?
If it's at Dunkins - it's a medium hazelnut/coconut, skim milk and 3 splenda. If it's Starbucks, it's a Hazelnut Cafe Americana with room. Or, it's a Clover brew.

31. Do you have any Willow Tree figurines?
No, unfortunately. I give them as gifts, but have yet to ever receive one myself.

32. What is/was your high school's mascot
A blue and gold lion.

33. Last person you spoke to from high school?
Jenn

34. Last time you used hand sanitizer?
When don't I use one???

35. Would you like to learn to play the drums?
I don't have a burning desire to do so... but I think I could pick it up easily.

36. what color are the blinds in your living room?
Off white pleated blinds.

38. Last thing you read in the newspaper?
About the Victor Martinez acquisition by the Sox.

39. What was the last pageant you attended?
The one I was in, back in what - 1988.

40. What is the last place you bought pizza from?
The place that brought the 12 pizzas for Princess Petunia's birthday party.

41. Have you ever worn a crown?
Queens don't need crowns to flaunt their royalty.

42. What is the last thing you stapled?
Paperwork for the bank.

43. Did you ever drink clear Pepsi?
No, and truly - it sounds disgusting!

44. Are you ticklish?
Absolutely.

45. Last time you saw fireworks?
This past 4th of July

46. Last time you had a Krispy Kreme doughnut?
My first, last and only was about 6 years ago? I was less than impressed.

47. Who is the last person that left you a message & you actually returned?
Nancy

48. Last time you parked under a carport?
Never

49. Do you have a black dog?
No

50. Can you give one reason why David Caruso is allowed to keep acting?
Seriously? I'd rather know why Speidi is such a phenom and why they keep showing up in the magazines.

51. Are you an aunt or uncle?
Yes, I'm an auntie.

52. Who has the prettiest eyes that you know of?
I think everyone has beautiful eyes. They're the windows to the soul.

Sometimes the best laid plans...

Often end up with a kink.
So, no sitter available for tonight, and while G would normally be home by 6:30 - he has to work tonight and tomorrow day. And my sitter options are otherwise booked. So clearly - unless something changes, no Trifecta Dinner tonight. I'm holding off on cancelling, just incase...

What I find so frustrating, is that whenever I want or need to go somewhere - I need to have a sitter. G, on the other hand - can come and go as he pleases without ever giving it a second thought. Of course when I mention this, he says "well we have a store - so that comes with the territory." (Excuse of convenience if you ask me.) Yeah, I get that. But every time?!? If you have staff that you cant rely on if someone suddenly takes the weekend off (like this weekend) then you need to get better help. Or if they stand around and watch you lift boxes when you clearly are suffering with a bad back -- they're a waste of time and money. Nuff said.

This led me to think of how else I am to spend the night since I will be home alone. Maybe, I'll bake cookies. I got a great email that has like 100 different cookie recipies, and me with my Kitchen Aid all alone..?

So here's a fun cookie survey I thought I'd post for my Saturday Survey.
If you use it - let me know!

01. What is your favorite store bought cookie? I'd have to say probably Oreos. Mint Oreos are really addictive.
02. What is your favorite home made cookie? Those shortbread thumbprint cookies with jelly in the middle. I remember in Home Ec we made two dozen of them. I ate them all. I LOVE those.
03. What is your favorite Girl Scout cookie? Tagalongs!
04. What is your favorite mini cookie (like animal crackers, teddy grahams, etc.)? Eh, I'm all set with those. Frosted Animal crackers hold my attention for a second and that's about it.
05. Do you consider Fig Newtons a cookie? Absolutely. I love how they get all muddy and stick to the roof of my mouth. It's a cookie you have to work at and you can't rush them.
06. Do you bake cookies often? Not as often as I should.. but pretty regularly.
07. Do you give cookies as gifts? No. I'm not much of a baker...
08. Do you buy cookies at the Mall? No. That never appeals to me. G can't resist them though.
09. Do you dip Oreos in milk? Eww. No. I remember being little and my parents trying to teach me to do it but I never really cared for it.

Saturday Survey!

Okay, so my personal pity party from yesterday is over. It's a brand new day - and truthfully, it's good to have a job even if you're not happy with it. I think my incense about it lies in the fact that I see so many people try to get out of doing more than they have to with their jobs, and here I am, looking to do as much as I possibly can! It will all work out in the end.

Any how, generally I try not to post on a Saturday unless it's a survey. And since the kiddies and I went food shopping today - I though this would be the perfect survey for me to post. Let me know if you use it, I'd love to see your answers!

Bon Appetit!

1. Favorite milk? I don't drink milk, truth be told. I use skim in my coffee. Both kids have lactose issues to a certain extent so my son drinks Soy and my daughter drinks Rice.

2. What are the top 3 dishes/recipes you are planning to cook this season? Pot Roast, Stuffed Cabbage, Spaghetti and Meatballs. (That was easy)!

3. Topping of choice for popcorn? Salt -- and tabasco pepper

4. Most disastrous recipe/meal failure? ooh, that's a tough one. I haven't really had a huge disaster. Oh wait - one Christmas, I ordered Muscovy Ducks from Harry & David - and they were supposed to be smoked and fully cooked, I just needed to warm them. And they were raw. That was fun to serve...not.

5. Favorite pickled item? LOVE marinated mushrooms. Home made sour tomatoes and stuffed cherry peppers are a close second.

6. How do you organize your recipes? By course.

7. Compost, trash, or garbage disposal? I'd love to have a disposal but since I'm on septic, trash it is.

8. If you were stranded on an island and could only bring 3 foods...what would they be (don't worry about how you'll cook them)? Sushi, pineapple, pad thai. I could sustain quite nicely with those three.

9. Fondest food memory from your childhood? So many. My mom making home made spaghetti sauce (she didn't make it as frequently as I do so that was a real treat.) My dad's dropped eggs on toast. And of course -- tuna fish dip. I've blogged often about these childhood memories.

10. Favorite ice cream? I don't eat real ice cream often, but Kimballs Farms is the best - hands down.

11. Most loved kitchen appliance? My Kitchen Aid. I don't use it too terribly often, but just looking at it makes me happy. I really want the pasta attachment.

12. Spice/herb you would die without? Garlic.

13. Cookbook you have owned for the longest time? The one my parents made for me. It's about 12 years old or so now and it's my favorite.

14. Favorite flavor of jam/jelly? Raspberry

15. Favorite recipe to serve to an omni (I would've used the word "uber" here, but hey, I didn't make this one up) friend? Why I'd cook their favorite, of course...!

16. Do you eat tofu? I never thought I would, but I do. And it's delicious!!!

17. Favorite meal to cook (or time of day to cook)? Oh, dinner - without a doubt.

18. What is sitting on top of your refrigerator? My breads, juices, a bread maker, and the rice milk.

19. Name 3 items in your freezer without looking. Frozen veggies, pork chops, chicken breast

20. What's on your grocery list? WAY too much to list here!

21. Favorite grocery store? Whole Foods. But I so don't do my food order there. I'm a Market Basket kinda girl. Who can afford to feed a family at Whole Foods?!

22. Name a recipe you'd love to try, but haven't yet. Just about anything in my Food and Wine magazines.

23. Food blog you read the most. I don't read food blogs. What, is that a bad thing?

24. Favorite chocolate? Since I'm not a big chocolate kinda girl, I've become quite accustomed to organic dark chocolate, 70% at minimum. It tastes wonderful and doesn't entice you to overindulge. Plus, it's good for you!

25. Most extravagant food item purchased lately? Define extravagant...? It's not like I buy caviar or anything. Maybe it was buying 10 lobsters three weeks ago. But at $3.99/lb, is that truly extravagant? I'd venture to guess not...

26. What vegetables do you enjoy most? I love, love, love vegetables. Cooked, raw, whatever. I love roasting my veggies too. Asparagus, Brussel Sprouts, Eggplant, Peppers, Broccoli, Cauliflower. The only vegetable that's truly off limits for me is peas.

Sing....sing a song!

Music has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. It was always on in my house, and as I've mentioned before - Sundays was always the day we all spent together as a family, and my Dad would play his 45's. My dad had is own electronic repair business, and so I was probably the only 4 year old that had a stereo in her room! I had to be extra careful so as not to scratch the record with the needle. (I know, totally dating myself on this one. It's only the beginning in this post, I assure you!)

As a little kid, in an effort to get me to "be good" when getting shots at the pediatrician's office - my mom would bribe me with going to get some 45's afterwards. Back then you could get 3 for one dollar - sometimes 4 if they were having a special sale. (Yes, and dinosaurs roamed the streets in those days too!) In high school, music was my best friend. I would spend hours listening to my favorite songs, and stopping the tapes to write the lyrics down so I could memorize them. My social life was minimal (I had strict parents) but they were great about letting me go to concerts, so my main source of excitement was waiting on the tour announcements, watching the new videos to debut on MTV and for cd's to be released.

It was music and sports - and that was what I lived for.
Some things never change...


1. What was your first favorite song? I think my very first was "Very Merry Unbirthday" from my Alice in Wonderland album. "Lollipops, Lace &Lipstick" from my mother's Donny Osmond album is another early recollection. But I think my first main stream, radio station song was "Emotion" by Samantha Sang. (Check out that gem of a video...how's that peach lip gloss? Oh yeah baby...smokin'.)

2. Who was your first favorite female singer? Now this is a tough one. Female singer I'm guessing is going to constitute having been more than one song. I'd say a toss up between Barbara Streisand (who's mom didn't listen to her?) and Yvonne Elliman.

3. Who was your first favorite male singer? I do believe it was Billy Joel. It might've even been Gordon Lightfoot, courtesy of my father.

4. Who was your first favorite band? The Monkees. I was obsessed. I had all of their albums, 45s, and I loved all their lesser known songs. Hello, who loved "Auntie Grizelda"? I did! And, no surprise here -- I had a crush on Davey Jones. For mainstream music, I think it may have been Asia. I liked a ton of solo artists, and I liked alot of bands that I had been exposed to by other people, but I think the first band I discovered and became my first favorite, was Asia - and it started with this song.

5. Who is your all time favorite band? This is really too difficult to answer. I'm so music oriented, it would depend on genre and then even possibly era. Some of my all time favorites are Aerosmith, Queen, Metallica, Steve Miller, The Eagles...the list goes on and on.

6. Who is your all time favorite male singer? Again, music's my thing - and so I don't think I have just one. I love, love, love Andrea Bocelli and Josh Groban if we're talking strictly singing. To me, Josh Groban must be what an angel must sound like.

7. Who is your all time favorite female singer? Again, such a broad canvas to paint! I guess I'd have to say my girl Christina Aguilera, though not a classic choice - is probably my answer. My second choice would probably be Whitney Houston -- pre "Crack is Whack", natch. That clip is one you should watch -- the best version of our national anthem -- ever. I actually get all choked up watching it, truth be told.

8. What is your all time favorite LP/CD album? I'm going to go out on a limb and say it's a three way tie between "Led Zeppelin IV", Metallica's "Master of Puppets" (Tough call, all their pre-Black stuff is amazing), Christina Aguilera's "Stripped". I have lots of "favorites of the moment", but those are timeless to me.

9. What was your first favorite radio station? WCOZ. Back in those days, you either listened to KISS 108, or WCOZ. Disco v. Rock. Don't get me wrong, I liked Disco too - but truly, I was a rock and roll kinda girl. And then shortly there after, I discovered Charles Laquidera and WAAF, of course.

And to think, all this time I thought I was a "rose colored" kinda girl....

Who knew?

You See the World Through Yellow Colored Glasses

You live your life with optimism. You remain happy through the bad times, and your outlook remains bright. You judge all interactions through the lens of hope. You try to see the best in people, and you give them the benefit of the doubt. You face challenges with a spirit of adventure. Things are what they are, so you might as well make the best of them. You see love as the utmost expression of personal joy. You tend to be attracted to lively, friendly people. At your worst, you are a bit petty and jealous. You want to be everyone's shining star. You are happiest when you're daydreaming or thinking up fresh ideas.

What Color Glasses Do You See the World Through?

Saturday Survey!

It's been some time since I posted a Saturday survey, and since I've been in a not so great mood given my work situation - I thought a little funny survey would be perfect for me to post. It seems in reading back the last week or so what I've been writing, I've been a little irritated. Time to get back to some fun!

What are the kiddies and I doing today? Well, we have plans to visit my new little nephew...and then I thought I'd take them to the beach to get an ice cream. There's a beach on the North Shore that's not so much a beach you go to walk on the sand, but they have a great walking path in general. So I thought we'd get ice cream and walk along the path. If only our dog wasn't so high strung, we'd love to take her for the walk to. Tomorrow, we'll be going to Rockport hopefully if the weather holds out.

So here is a survey that I borrowed from Ms. Ladybug. Some of the numbers are missing...but that's okay.
Happy Saturday!


1. What is in the back seat of your car right now? Crumbs from the last time the kids were there. Kids are messy, messy creatures! My truck is in sore need of a car wash! Oh, and a cute striped Dickies bag.
2. When was the last time you threw up? When I had a gallstone attack a few months ago.
3. What's your favorite curse word? Fuck. What other word can be an adjective, and exclamation, a verb, and depending on the intonation -- be positive, negative and everything in between? Versatility, that's the key.

4. Name 3 people who made you smile today? Only three? The day's just started. G, T, F.

5. What were you doing at 8 am this morning? Just waking up believe it or not. My daughter and a headache kept me up all night. (First headache since April thank you very much. Psycho company ruining all my good chi.)
6. What were you doing 30 minutes ago? Making the kid's breakfast and calling my sister in law.
7. What will you be doing 3 hours from now? Hopefully visiting my nephew.
8. Have you ever been to a strip club? Nope.
9. What is the last thing you said aloud? "Yes" to my daughter asking if that was the last biscuit.
10. What is the best ice cream flavor? Vanilla. Dress it up or keep it plain.
11. What was the last thing you had to drink? Coffee
13. What was the last thing you ate? Dinner last night. Half of an italian sub, and some raisin bran cereal. Just wasn't up to cooking.
14. Have you bought any new clothing items this week? Yes, I got a cute top at Ann Taylor Loft - but I"m returning it this week.
15. When was the last time you ran? Jees, now that I think of it - it's been a week? I'm going to be tired when I run on Monday, that's for sure.
16. What's the last sporting event you watched? Red Sox game on tv.
18. Who is the last person you emailed? My tattoo artist! Woohoo - July 30th is the big date!
19. Ever go camping? Yes, when I was little. I loved it.
20. Do you have a tan? Yes - Sunless tanner. :)
24. Do you drink your soda from a straw? I don't drink soda.
25. What did your last IM say? I don't IM, except in work w. my co workers. It probably was my friend Michelle trying to make me feel better after hearing my conversation with the psycho company.
26. Are you someone's best friend? I think so.
27. What are you doing tomorrow? Go to Rockport.
28. Where is your mom right now? At home, in Florida.
29. Look to your left, what do you see? Living Room, w my daughter on the recliner.
30. What color is your watch? I have many, some silver - some gold.
31. What do you think of when you think of Australia ? A place I'd love to visit.
32. Would you consider plastic surgery? I don't think so? Definitely not to my face. I often think I'd love to have my chest enhanced. Not bigger - just firmer. But other than that, I don't think so.
33. What is your birthstone? Sapphire
34. Do you go in at a fast food place or just hit the drive thru? Not a big fast food kinda girl.
35.How many kids do you want? I've got two - a boy and a girl. Healthy and happy. We don't make puppies, so...what else is there?
36. Do you have a dog? Yes, Brandy the Jack Russell. She's 12.
37. Last person you talked to on the phone? G
38. Have you met anyone famous? Yes.
39. Any plans today? Just found out I'm not only going to see my nephew, but taking the kids to the pool.
40. How many states have you lived in? I'm a born and bred, tried and true Massachussetts girl. Wouldn't have it any other way. Although my arm could be twisted to try LA.
41. Ever go to college? I did.
42. Where are you right now? Kitchen
43. Biggest annoyance in your life right now? Besides my psycho company? The gas prices are really irritating me.
44. Last song listened to? "No Air" - Jordin Sparks/Chris Brown
46. Are you allergic to anything? Nada
47. Favorite pair of shoes you wear all the time? No faves - love all of them.
48. Are you jealous of anyone? No. I am envious of things in a positive way sometimes, but jealousy is negative and just not my thing. I'm pretty happy with who I am and where I am in life -- even when things aren't going my way.
50. Is anyone jealous of you? I would hope not.
51. What time is it? 10:18 a.m.
52. Do any of your friends have children? Most of them, yes.
53. Do you eat healthy? Yes.
54. What do you usually do during the day? Work.
55. Do you hate anyone right now? No. I don't hate anyone, not worth my energy. I do have disdain for a few people though...
56. Do you use the word 'hello' daily? Absolutely! And not just in the conventional sense either.
58. How old will you be turning on your next birthday? Thirty something still.
59. Have you ever been to Six Flags? No. And truthfully, so not my thing.
60. How did you get one of your scars? Fell during a play rehearsal and sliced my knee to the bone. Had to get 10 stitches. I was a tom boy, rough and tumble kind of girl when I was younger. I do not have pretty legs as a result.

Healthy dose of curiousity...

Today is the last day of soccer, and then for the rest of the summer - Saturdays belong to the kiddies and myself. We've already looked ahead to the Strawberry Festivals over the next few weeks that we're looking forward to, as well as a long overdue trip to the Butterfly Place. So very exciting...

This morning, since its one of the few since September that we haven't had to get ready for dance -- we decided to break out one of my son's birthday presents: Discovery Kids Tornado Maker. We had so much fun! We experimented with different objects in the tornado maker -- as well as different liquids to see how the funnel reacts. It was awesome. Right now, the kids are watching the DVD that came with it, showing how tornados are born and some of the most devastating ones on record.

My son is fascinated with weather - and it's so funny because I said to him, "they're sort of beautiful aren't they?" and he said "no, they're scary...but I'm so curious!". Which is a good thing! He loves science, weather and medicine - I'm hoping to find some sort of science fair we can go to this summer. I know he'd love that.

You Are Rain

You can be warm and sexy. Or cold and unwelcoming. Either way, you slowly bring out the beauty around you. You are best known for: your touch Your dominant state: changing

What Type of Weather Are You?

Childhood memories, food style....

I made the kids lunch a little while ago - and I made them something that is so simple, so very 1970's - and something that immediately made me think of my own Saturday afternoons growing up. It made me happy to make it for them (though it's relatively politically incorrect to eat these days, it's still a classic favorite of mine), and even better - they were happy to eat it. So, while I try to keep my Saturday posts related to surveys, I found one that fit perfectly.

"Top 5 Favorite Food of your Childhood Memories".
(Keep in mind, these foods aren't necessarily my favorite foods, but they are tied to some of my favorite times in my childhood. Make sense?)

1. Today, I made my kids one of the simplest sandwiches ever. Egg Salad, with potato chips and a pickle. As I was peeling the eggs, I was standing by the sink with the window open and the smell of the eggs along with the fresh air brought me right back to being young and my my mother making me one of those sandwiches for lunch. It was something she made almost exclusively only in Summer, (at least that's how my mind remembers it!) and so to feel the breeze and smell the mingling air with the fresh eggs - it just made me warm and fuzzy.

2. I love, love, love tuna fish sandwiches from my childhood. My dad and my mom both made them, but both incredibly differently. My mom made it the "classic way", light mayo - maybe a little relish or pickles mixed in. My dad, made it almost like a dip. Truthfully, if I told you what was in it - you wouldn't eat it, but the funny thing about it is that I serve it now today myself and if I don't tell anyone what it is - they don't have a clue. I serve it at parties with chips. Sorry, can't reveal the secret recipe..!

3. Chocolate pudding pie is another instant "happy childhood" memory trigger. Who am I kidding - even plain chocolate pudding does it for me. Funny thing is, though I love instant - I still have a vague memory of being with my mother and we were making the pudding on top of the stove, and I just couldn't wait for it to cool. I still even remember the smell of it cooking...Anyway, whether it's in a cup - or layered in a graham cracker crust with whipped cream, that is a very shiny happy memory of being small.

4. Comfort food in general works for me. It's funny, my mom and my dad both cook well - but both very different styles. My dad always made "fancy" foods - which I think I picked up from him. The ability to make something edible out of practically nothing is a gift. My mom made "classic" type dishes that were fantastic -- her home made macaroni and cheese was awesome. Coffee rolls, Beef Stew, and Spaghetti Sauce and Pot Roast were my favorites. As a matter of fact, with regards to Beef Stew and Pot Roast, I still use the same recipes - because truthfully, it's just not as good any other way.

5. Green Slime Pie, aka a variation of Key Lime - is something I've blogged about before. It was my Auntie Saralee's recipe, and a family favorite that we all looked forward to on Thanksgiving. She passed away over 20 years ago now, and I never had it again - most of us hadn't. But last Thanksgiving, my cousin David (her son) made it from her original recipe and brought it over for dessert. It tasted exactly like I remembered it, and the best thing about it was that it brought me back to a time when our family was all together.

Food and music definitely equate to happiness for this girl.
What foods trigger your memories of childhood?

Senior year and graduation all rolled into one...

So, I got a phone call earlier this week from someone who I was pretty good friends with in high school - and whom I've kept in touch with throughout the years, sometimes through phone calls and business transactions; other times just through Christmas cards. Anyway, I get this call and the bottom line of it is that he wants me to help him plan our reunion this year. Me?!? Aaggh. Truthfully, a few years ago I'd have jumped at that chance - I just don't really have the time to dedicate to it right now. But of course, he had to throw in the "C'mon, you're Ms. Popular and know everyone, you're so good at this...you know you want to..." how could a girl refuse? (Postscript to this story... I gracefully bowed out. I have a crazy, hectic and insanely busy life. I just didn't have the time to help out unfortunately. Though I was flattered for the asking...)

Which got me thinking about high school. So much fun it was - and yet if I could do it all over again, I think I'd do it differently. Same friends and all that, but I'd have definitely challenged myself so much more. I was friends with everyone in high school, I was very "anti-clique" so I was friend with everyone from the metal heads and "burnouts" to the jocks and "popular" groups. I myself, was a metalhead cheerleader which sort of made the bouncing between all the groups pretty easy. Plus the fact that I really just genuinely liked everyone and wanted to be friends with everyone anyway. I intentionally kept my intimate circle of friends small and varied - with my large circle of acquaintances crossing all "social circles",if you will.

I found this fun High School themed survey, and since it is Saturday and all....I present to you, the "I'm Just a Girl's High School Experience in Retrospect". Sort of, anyway!

*****************
1. Did you date someone from your school? I didn't date much in high school, I was always "one of the guys". I had lots of unrequited crushes!! I did eventually have a high school sweetheart though, we dated all of senior year and a few years after graduation.
2. Did you win anything in Seniors' Who's Who? Hmm, we didn't have anything like that.
3. What kind of car did you drive? I didn't have my license until I was 22. I DID get into a car accident on my permit at 16 1/2 in my friend Renee's car. It traumatized me clearly since it was many years later that I got my license!
4. It's Friday night...where are you? Pre-Senior year, probably no where but home. Strict parents. Senior year? Maybe the studio for rehearsals? Or Waites' Mount. Maybe Blueberry Hill. But I almost always had to be home for 10.
5. Were you a party animal? No. I didn't drink at all. I went to parties, but didn't drink until after high school - and again, had to be home by 10, 11 if it was like a "special" occasion.
6. Were you considered a flirt? I don't know? If I flirted with someone, it meant I wasn't into them; because I'm really shy around someone I do find attractive. Have always been that way. But I can flirt with the best of 'em if I'm comfortable.
7. Were you in band, orchestra, or choir? Band in Jr. High School - I played the glauckenspiel. But not high school. I was a cheerleader and in the Drama Club.
8. Were you a nerd? Um, no. Although I'm definitely a geek today! :)
9. Did you get suspended/expelled? hahaha, I lived in detention. I was in detention so much I'd go to school at 5am to cut my hours down. I was the queen of cutting class! But my assistant principal was a doll and knew I was a good kid...just a little bored. Never, ever suspended or expelled. Absolutely not.
10. Can you sing the fight song? We had a fight song?
11. Who were your favorite teachers? My favorite teachers weren't for high school believe it or not. In high school, I'd say Mr. Benotti my Assistant Principal (who passed away, unfortunately) and Ms. Gonsalves, my Media Technology teacher.
12. Where did you sit during lunch? It all depended...no particular "spot".
13. What was your school's full name? Malden High School
14. School mascot? Golden Tornados
15. Homecoming court? I was not in the court, though I had secretly hoped to be.
16. If you could go back and do it again, would you? Absolutely. High school was a great time in my life.
17. What do you remember most about graduation? That it took so long to get to my name...and that it took even longer to get through the rest!
18. Where did you go senior skip day? You know, I don't remember? I know we went somewhere. We started off at Duffy's that much I'm sure of.
19 Have you gained weight since then? About 5 lbs? But I've had two kids so I'm entitled.
20. Who was your Senior prom date? My high school sweetheart. :)
21. Are you planning on going to your reunion? Looks like I've been roped into planning it!
22. Who was your home room teacher? OMG, I can't remember one of them! Not one! How sad is that?!?!
23. Who will repost? I don't know but if you do - let me know!
24. Did you play any sports? Yes, but not organized. I'm more athletic now than I was then...
25. Do you still talk to people from school? Not usually, but I'm thinking I will be shortly!
26. What year did you graduate? 198-something!!! ;)

Rain, rain, go away...come again some other day!

So, since it's a perfectly cold and rainy Saturday, here are some fun little "blogthings" to sort of chase the rain away. Nothing too serious, and all about moi!

What These Tulips Say About You

You are very popular and universally admired. You are often hopelessly in love, and you connect to other people easily. You are a naturally cheerful and upbeat person. You have an amazing smile.

What Do The Flowers You Pick Say About You?

You Are Sudoku

You are simple, modern and elegant. You're not that difficult to figure out, but very few people truly get you. You approach the world with a pure logic that most people will never grasp.

What Kind of Puzzle Are You?

You Are Cumin

You are warm, unique, and pretty dominant. It's also pretty likely that you smoke or like fire. You are energetic and intense. You definitely stimulate people.

What Spice Are You?

Saturday Survey Blahs...

So, I just got back from taking the kids to dance and for a run to Target (or Tar-jei, for those of you who like to add a little fancy schmancy to the name) and now we're home and I've got to tell you - I'm feeling a little, blah. I don't love this inbetween season of not exactly winter (despite the snow) and not exactly Spring. I'm not a big fan of mud truth be told. There's nothing really fun outdoorsy to do with the kids today -- and really nothing spectacular planned for indoors. Outdoor activities I was thinking of doing are postponed due to the wetness, and I just don't feel like walking around the mall. While I'd normally embrace this kind of lazy day, for some reason it's just bringing me down this afternoon. Tomorrow I believe is going to be a day of ice skating which I'm thoroughly looking forward to.

Today's Saturday Survey is 80's themed. Seeing as I'm still stuck in the 80's, this one I thought was perfectly appropo. Enjoy your weekend!
(And how about those Red Sox? Hello - did you see Jason's homerun?!?!)


1. Age on January 1st, 1980. -- I was 9 years old. Seems like just yesterday!
2. Favorite song of the 80’s. -- Way too many to list! Seriously!!!
3. Favorite rock band of the 80’s. -- Metallica, without a doubt. Then of course, Bon Jovi, Motley Crue (early Crue), Iron Maiden, Aerosmith. I was a rocker girl for sure.
4. Favorite dance/R&B band of the 80’s. -- Dance, it would probably be Expose or Cover Girls. For R&B, I was definitely always a Stevie Wonder fan. Yes, even that stupid "I just called to say I love you" had it's moment in the sun.
5. Best TV show of the 80’s. --Oh, another "too many". Who didn't love "Laverne & Shirley", "One Day at a Time", "Cheers", ?
6. Best male and female TV actors of the 80’s. - Hmmm. Truthfully I didn't really love the television actors. I was big into music and movies.
7. Favorite comedy movie of 80’s. -- Probably "Fast Times at Ridgemont High".
8. Favorite action/drama film of the 80’s. -- Loved, loved, loved "Coal Miner's Daughter".
9. Favorite personal event, social gathering or political event during the 1980’s. -- Personal events, my God - I had so much fun with my friends. But social/political event? Live Aid. Without a doubt.

And it's Saturday...

I'm fuming at the moment because the guy who plows our driveway is an idiot. I'm sorry - I know that sounds harsh, but...look, we know the driveway is steep. We overlooked the fact that last year he broke the landscape wall going down the drive way. We've overlooked the fact that he continually rips our lawn - and did I mention, practically killed my japanese maple? But last night - was the kicker. Not only did he slam not once - but twice - into the basketball pole, it's now turned and twisted. The lawn is entirely ripped up...he didn't sand - and I can not make it up my driveway. WTF?

Today, the kiddies and I are planning on hitting the pet store. My son's fish - "Mixed up Spidey" (because of course, he was all red, blue and black looking like a mixed up version of Spiderman, naturally!) has moved on to the big fish tank in the sky. So, my daughter is going to pick out a Beta for her room - and my son will get a new one. This is his 3rd one in three years - not too bad actually.

So, I'm blatantly stealing a survey from Nichole, who does these really fun "feasts" on Fridays. I thought it would be fun to do for my Saturday Survey this week!

Have you ever played a practical joke on anyone? If so, what did you do and who was your victim? You know, I try really hard to play jokes on people, but I laugh so hard that I give myself away. I'm sure I've done one that was pretty good, but nothing is coming to mind. In work there's a small group of us who always play "jokes" on each other, but I don't have anything outstanding in my "reportoire" that easily comes to mind.

What do your salt and pepper shakers look like? Well, for every day use - I have those ones you buy packaged at the store that are prefilled and say "salt" and "pepper" on them. Then I have some pretty plain ceramic ones, just for show - on the top of my stove. Then, I have a salt grinder and a pepper grinder - but never use them because ugh, they're just too much work to fill constantly. But the BEST ones I got from my aunt this year as a gift at Christmas. 12 individual mini pairs of salt and pepper shakers, so when I do my big holiday dinners, everyone has their own pair! How fun!! And so very me.... I was more excited about those than some of my other gifts!

Where is the next place you plan to visit? I'm supposed to go for a girls weekend to Eastover for my girlfriend's birthday in May. But as far as places like, out of state - I'm just not sure. Still hoping to do a NYC weekend (Julie??) and I know for sure that either this summer or next spring, a road trip to Hershey Park for the kiddies is going to be planned!

What kind of lotion or cream do you use to keep your hands from getting too dry? I am a lotion addict. (Yet another group I need to join..."Hi, I'm Rebecca and I'm addicted to body lotions, body creams, lip glosses and mascara".) It varies, depending on my mood. I've got Victoria's Secret "Love Spell" and "Pure Seduction" on hand, though I just remembered I'm out of "Strawberries & Champagne"; as well as Bath & Body Works "Breathe: Romance". The key is not only do my hands need to be soft - they need to smell pretty too.


Make up a dessert, tell us the ingredients, and give us a name. Peanut Butter, mixed with dark chocolate ganache and layered between a devil's food cake, frosted with peanut butter and chocolate frosting...with shavings of coconut and peanuts on top. Hmm, what to call it? "To die for"...

Wonder if there's any truth to this...

http://www.livingto100.com/ is a website that has a "calculator" that calculates your life expectancy based upon the answers you give to their lifestyle questions...

Here were my results. Let's hope it's accurate! Of course taking into consideration all of the "what if's" in life...

'TIs the season to be jolly...

It's funny, with the Thanksgiving holiday - my schedule feel a little "off". Of course, being up for 24 hours didn't help much with keeping track of the days. But today is Saturday - and we have one of my nephew's birthday parties which should be alot of fun. It's a bowling party - and the kids are really looking forward to it. Tomorrow, it's Christmas Card picture day...and of course, the traditional transition to Christmas with decorating, and the "Pièce de résistance" - the tree.

This morning I realized it's been sometime since I posted a Saturday survey; and with the official kickoff to the holiday season having taken place, I thought that a holiday themed survey would be a good choice for today. Similar to other survey's I've done in the past but you know how these things go, they all vary on a theme. So sit back, and if you're truly that interested....here's just a few more things about this girl and my favorite time of year!

1. Egg nog or hot chocolate?
Hot chocolate...preferably with a touch of mint!

2. Letter to Santa? "Dear Santa, I already wrote on behalf of the kids, so this one's all me. Quick question for you...does the whole "naughty/nice" thing have to apply to grownups too? Because truly, I'm a little bored of the "nice" thing right now. I've got plenty of nice...could use a little naughty. A girl needs a break now and then, wouldn't you agree? Are there levels to this naughtiness thing? Just curious...Anyhow. I truly don't need much. Surprise me -- I love surprises. Could we talk about Jason Varitek somehow ending up under my tree....even for just, 10 minutes? I can definitely suppress the whole "naughty" thing if that's what it takes. Let's talk. Love you, and always a believer....Rebecca."

3. Does Santa wrap presents or just set them under the tree? Santa always wraps! And puts bows on...curly ribbon sometimes too. It's no fun for the kiddies if there's no wrapping to undo!

4. Colored lights on your tree/house or white? I'm a traditionalist, leaning towards the white. I used to be a multi color light kind of girl - but then I realized that the ornaments show up better with plain white. It makes them standout rather than get lost in all the color.

5. Do you hang mistletoe? No. And interestingly enough, I've never had anyone kiss me under it either... maybe it's because I've never hung it?

6. When do you put your decorations up? The Saturday or Sunday immediately following Thanksgiving.

7. What is your favorite holiday dish (excluding dessert)? Truthfully, I make something different every year - I try to keep it interesting. But I guess ham might be one of them since I almost always include a ham in the menu. I love the stuffed scallops I make too though.

8. Favorite holiday memory as a child? Making play doh ornaments with my mother.

9. When and how did you learn the truth about Santa? What truth about Santa? Is he diabetic? Should I not be leaving out cookies??? I've often wondered why he doesn't eat them all...

10. Do you open a gift on Christmas Eve? No, I don't like to do that. When I was little we always did, I'd always ask. But as a grown up -- no. Guess I acquired patience somewhere along the line....

11. How do you decorate your Christmas tree? I'm discovering a whole new appreciation for coordinated chaos. Having the kids help is the whole fun...but the type A in me is just realizing that I can enjoy it, truly. It's eclectic I guess...leans towards the Victorian side with the colors, has some "fou fou" with feathered ornaments; but remains traditional as well with handmade ornaments made by my Mom as well as traditional figurine ornaments.

12. Can you ice skate? Yes, I love love love it!!! Hoping to get to the Duck Pond -- maybe next Sunday?? I wish I had more time to go - but it just seems like once a year is the only time anymore.

13. Do you remember your favorite gift? I think my favorite gift ever was a cookbook that my parents made for me about 10 years ago now. It's got all their own "tried and true" recipes, plus a ton that my mom found online for me and printed out. I use it all the time still -- and about 6 years ago or so, in a non-gift related fashion - my Mother added to it with all sorts of crock pot recipes.

14. What's the most important thing about the holidays for you? Being with my family.

15. What is your favorite holiday dessert? Obviously, anything with peanut butter. Outside of that, love love love chocolate pudding pie --so simple, and yet so flipping good.

16. What is your favorite holiday tradition? Most definitely the decorating of the tree.

17. What tops your tree? A teddy bear angel that my Mom made, I don't know -- 25 years ago maybe? She always made crafts and would sell them at shows...but this one was either an extra one, or it didn't sell - I can't remember which. But I loved it -- It was one of the few things I asked for when I first moved out. And it's been on my tree every year since I was 18.

18. Which do you prefer, giving or receiving? Love to give. Definitely my favorite. But it always feels nice to receive a little something as well...

19. What is your favorite Christmas Song? Traditional, I'd have to say "Little Drummer Boy" or "What child is this". Contemporary, I'd have to say "Little Drummer Boy" with Bing Crosby and David Bowie - as well as "Christmas in Sarajevo" by Transiberian Orchestra. New/Original, then I'd say "Believe" by Josh Groban.

20. Candy Canes! Yuck or Yum? Yum! How can you not love a candy cane? Not only do they taste great - but they make your breath sweet and minty too! Who can't appreciate a candy that multi tasks?!?!

Le Saturday Survey...!

So, it's been a while since I've posted a survey. And given it's a cold rainy Saturday -- it seems like as good of a day as any to post one. Blatantly "borrowed" from Ms. Ladybugs 12 - here's "more than you ever needed to know about Chez Just a Girl!



1. What kind of SOAP is in your bathtub right now? This amazing goat milk soap from a farm in NH. The name is escaping me at the moment, though I did post about them a few weeks

2. Do you have watermelon in your fridge right now? No, it's out of season, and rather mushy if you buy it right now I think.

3. What would you change about your living room? The accessories. And I'd settle on window treatments. I'm far too picky.

4. Are the dishes in your dishwasher clean or dirty? I never have dishes in the sink. Irks me to no end.

5. What is in your fridge? Hmmm. Tons of things and yet nothing much since I need to go food shopping. Yogurt, hummus, rice milk/2% milk, cheese, spring water/juice, Can't believe it's not butter, condiments, garlic, and all sorts of stuff to cook with if I thaw some chicken/beef/turkey/pork. I can make anything out of anything - it's a gift.

6. White or wheat bread? Wheat/Oatmeal/Kids White

7. What is on top of your refrigerator? Bagels, spare loaf of bread, spare bottles of juice

8. What color or design is on your shower curtain? Purple, Sage and Cream floral

9. How many plants are in your home? One. A spider plant seedling from Glitter.

10. Is your bed made right now? Always. Yet another pet peeve.

11. Comet or Soft Scrub? Both

12. Is your closet organized? Yes, but no where to the level I want it to be. Clearly, I have control issues.

13. Can you describe your flashlight? Hmm, Yeah. Don't have one.

14. Do you drink out of glass or plastic most of the time at home? Le bottle.

15. Do you have iced tea made in a pitcher right now? Eww. Iced tea is gross.

16. If you have a garage, is it cluttered? Nope.

17. Curtains or blinds? Pleated fabric blinds.

18. How many pillows do you sleep with? One.

19. Do you sleep with any lights on at night? OH no. Must be total darkness.

20. How often do you vacuum? Too often! All the time. Again, control issues.

21. Standard toothbrush or electric? Plain ol' toothbrush.

22. What color is your toothbrush? Purple

23. Do you have a welcome mat on your front porch? Sure do! And this just reminded me I need to switch it out since Halloween is clearly over.

24. What is in your oven right now? Nada. I did make Cinnamon Rolls this morning though - does that count?

25. Is there anything under your bed? Nope.

26. Chore you hate doing the most? Sorting socks.

27. What retro items are in your home? I don't think anything actually!

28. Do you have a separate room that you use as an office? Yes.

29. How many mirrors are in your home? 6. One in each bathroom - one in each bedroom.

30. Do you have any hidden emergency money around your home? Sort of. It's not emergency money so much as it's Christmas shopping money.

31. What color are your walls? My first floor has many; lavendar, purple, sage, tan, and gold. Second floor is mostly tans and browns; office and third floor are sages

32. Do you keep any kind of protection weapons in your home? Define "protection weapon"...

33. What does your home smell like right now? Clean. Laundry going at the moment. Fire in the fireplace. Kitchen has frosted berry candles lit, formal dining room has "Grandmas Kitchen" (think cinnamon, nutmeg and berry), office has kiwi melon incense, and son's bedroom has Sweet Strawberry burning.

34. Favorite candle scent? Such a toss up on my mood. Pumpkin Pie or Vanilla are almost always my most favorite "go to" scents.

35. What kind of pickles (if any) are in your refrigerator right now? Kosher Half Sour

36. What color is your favorite Bible? Is this a trick question?!

37. Ever been on your roof? No, and hope to god I never have to - cuz that would mean there was a fire.

38. Do you own a stereo? Hmmm. Do they still make them anymore? I have a sound system...

39. How many TVs do you have? Almost too many. 5

40. How many house phones? 4

41. Do you have a housekeeper? I have a person who comes once or twice a month. Psychologically it does wonders for me. Though I'm sure I keep the house just as clean as she gets it, it just makes me feel good to come home and smell cleaning products that I didn't have to do myself, you know?

42. What style do you decorate in? It's eclectic. I prefer French Country, but mix in a little Traditional as well.

43. Do you like solid colors in furniture or prints? I like to mix it up. Really depends on the pattern. I love stripes, and I adore mixing stripes and florals.

44. Is there a smoke detector in your home? Seriously?!?! Of course!

45. In case of fire, what are the items in your house which you’d grab if you only could make one quick trip?My kids, the dog and the kitties. And then I'd close my eyes and pray that all of my memory books might survive.