Seeming Randomness ending with a Climax

My brain is fried from all the marketing stuff at the moment, so relying once again upon that strange, very long survey.

5,000 Questions... My answers so far...

711. What is your favorite store that is open 24 hours?
WalMart. Convenience!

712. Do you find that sleep is just so much sleepier when you are supposed to be doing something else?
Absolutely. My body helping me to procrastinate. My brain retaliates though, as I tend to be thinking when I'm supposed to be sleeping.

713. Do you also find that the books you chose are so much more luscious when you have a stack of actual assignments that you Should be reading?
Indulgent reading for the win. Probably why I didn't do homework in high school. If it didn't get done during school hours, it tended to not get done.

714. If you have had the chance to compare the original 5000 Question Survey to this edited version, what is your opinion?

This is the only version I know. Taking me years to complete as it is!
715. What's the most creative answer you can think of for 'what is black and white and red all over'?
Your eyesight after I punch you for making one of those jokes! (Figuratively of course. I do not condone violence.)

716. Why do people slow down on the highway when they pass a cop car pulling someone else over?
People are innately curious. And a subconscious need to not be the ones caught speeding next.

717. Are they afraid that the cop will STOP pulling over whoever he is pulling over and pull them over instead?
Yup. Didn't I just say that?

718. It's daddy's birthday. What do you get him?
Chocolate and a book.

719. What's your 5,000 question survey nickname?
Look at the word [or phrase] next to the 2nd letter of your first name
A anything but
B bubalicious
C captivating
D deadly
E erotic
F funky
G greasy
H heaps of
I indie
J jelly
K kinetic
L lasher
M Mr. (or Mrs.)
N neglected
O ogre-like
P parading
Q quacking
R Rico
S stinky
T the one and only
U uber
V Velcro
W wishing for
X x-tra
Y yearning for
Z zoobalee
Now take the first letter of your last name.
A aardvarks
B baboo
C creme pie
D drag queen
E eggbert
F flex
G god
H hell
I Isabelle
J juice
K kisses
L lightning
M mannish boys
N nice
O octopi
P porcupines
Q q-bert
R rainbows
S suave
T tushy
U underwear
V valor
W weenie
X xtc
Y yohimbe
Z zipper

Put the two words together for your nickname.
“anything but juice”. (could be worse, but could certainly be better!) Can I pick my own? Funky Octopi.

720. You know that shaky feeling that you get when it's all coming to a climax, and everyone involved is breaking into the good kind of cold sweat, working as individuals and at the same time as a single force of energy, and it all meshes together, and for a brief moment, you're holding your breath and tingling all over, and after it's done you're on an explosive and dizzying high for the rest of the night?
What does that feeling come from?
creative endeavors ;)

Returning to 5,000 Questions

Wasn’t sure what to write about today, so dug up the 5,000 Questions and found where I’d left off.

5,000 Questions... My answers so far...

701. What is your favorite mixed drink? Strawberry Daquiri

702. When answering these questions are you often pulled in different directions, as if committing to one answer eliminates the possibility for all others? no. If I feel more than one applies, I say so. :)

703. Chicken Masala, Pasta Primavera, Veal Cutlet Parmesan or Linguini with Clam Sauce? Pasta Primavera

704. If you were alone in your friend's house/room/apartment would you look in their drawers and notebooks? Ooh. Tough one to say without being in the situation. I think that would totally depend on the friend. I probably wouldn't poke into drawers, but would more likely peruse things more in the open.

705. What would you really like to do but you don't because you are afraid of getting caught? hitch-hiking. It appeals to my sense of adventure, and that itch to travel that I haven't been able to fulfill.

706. Of the following, which word best describes you:
responsible, spontaneous, tactful, uninhibited. tactful

707. Which band would you most likely check out?
The Smiths (indi-pop 80's-90's)
The Lords of Acid (acid/house/dance 90's)
Front 242 (80's-90's industrial/dance)
Not being familiar with any of those, based off the names and description, I'd go with Front 242.

708. How can one put an end to procrastination, as a bad habit? Hah! Wouldn't I like to know. Seriously. If you have an answer to this one, do share.

709. What feature would you want on your car that is not currently offered? Self-driving.

710. What kind of poetry speaks to you? lyrical, emotion. My favorite classic poets are Walt Whitman and Emily Dickinson.

Some high-jacking, rambling, fun

 

And yes, Dr. Horrible won!

 

5,000 Questions... My answers so far...

 

671. If you saw The Queen of the Damned did you want to be a vampire/Goth afterwards? Haven't seen it. But now that I've looked it up, I'm interested in seeing it.

672. If you saw SLC Punk did you want to be punk afterwards? Haven't, and probably not.

673. What is your favorite zombie movie? ooh, tough question. I love the Resident Evil movies, my favorite of which is Resident Evil: Apocalypse. Zombies on a Plane was hilarious. 28 Days Later and sequel 28 Weeks Later are great ones focused less on the chasing and eating and more on the personal/society horrors of a zombie apocalypse.

674. Best kids birthday party: ceramics, chuck-e-cheese, roller rink, bowling, sleep over, movie theater. sleep over. never heard of a ceramics party.

675. What were your parties like when you were a kid? due to so many kids, we only had birthday parties every four years: ages 4, 8, 12, and 16. Mom always made the cake herself. We got to choose a theme, and it was a big deal. The other birthdays were celebrated as a family.

 

676. Best teen (about 15-16) birthday party: ceramics, chuck-e-cheese, roller rink, bowling, sleep over, movie theater, house party, catered in a hall, restaurant, family trip, concert. concert would have been awesome

 

677. What are/were your 15-16 year old parties like? I had a murder mystery party with a small group of friends.

678. Best 18th birthday party: ceramics, chuck-e-cheese, roller rink, bowling, sleep over, movie theater, house party, catered in a hall, restaurant, family trip, concert, club, pool hall, college party. restaurant with a few close friends

679. If you are 18 what was your party like? I didn't have a party.

680. Best 21st birthday party: ceramics, chuck-e-cheese, roller rink, bowling, sleep over, movie theater, house party, catered in a hall, restaurant, family trip, concert, club, pool hall, college party, bar, Atlantic city/Las Vegas trip. I was five months pregnant at the time. I was happy going to a nice sit-down restaurant.

681. If you saw The Craft were you interested in wicca/paganism/magic afterwards? haven't seen it

682. What are your top 3 priorities? relationships, making sure I have time for myself, and the written word

683. If you saw fight club did you want to get into a fistfight afterwards? dumb question

684. What is your favorite smell? the smell walking by The Body Shop. I don't know what it is, but it's rejuvenating.

685. Give everything below a humor rating (1 = laugh your ass off, 2 = lol, 3 = smile, 4 = lame, 5 = not funny, 6 = offensive): going to do this a little different than asked for, and group them into three categories: offensive, not funny, and potential for humor (can be anywhere from 1-4 depending on the joke/situation)

People falling: not funny
Rape jokes: offensive
Sarcastic comments: potential
Blonde jokes: potential
Dirty jokes: not funny
God/religion jokes: potential
Long-ass jokes: potential
Death jokes: potential
Pain/sickness jokes: not funny
Animals doing cute stuff: potential
Bodily functions: potential
Knock jokes: potential
Ethnic jokes: offensive
Puns: potential
Ironic situations: potential

685. If you saw Cruel Intentions did you want to have lots of meaningless sex afterwards? getting tired of these questions... especially as I've never seen these movies.

 
686. Do you get at least three hugs per day? yes. my husband, my son, and I are all physically affectionate.

 

687. What should someone never say to you/call you if they want to remain on your good side? Don't ever call me "Doll."

688. If you saw Trainspotting did you want to do drugs afterwards? not applicable

689. Do movies have a great influence on you? At last! the basic question these were leading up to. They have an emotional influence, but not a lifestyle one.

690. Do you have a favorite reality TV show? The Colony. What an interesting social experiment. We discovered the show when we saw it available to purchase on Xbox Live, and have been watching it on Discovery Channel's website ever Thursday. The Colony replicates a post-apocalyptic world. How would ten people survive? They have to scavenge for their own food, find ways to get and sanitize water, create electricity, and ensure their survival.

 

691. Are there certain roles that people are pressured to play in society or can they basically do whatever they want? In these days, you can basically do what you want. But some paths have more challenges, and all choices have consequences.

692. How does the 2004 Dawn of the Dead remake compare to the original movie? I didn't see the original. I thought the remake was well done.

693. Have you ever held a magnifying glass over an insect to burn it? No.

694. Have you ever pulled the wings off a fly, butterfly or any other insect? No. I don't torture insects. And I only kill them if they are inside the house.

695. What would you think of a guy (if you're into guys) or a girl (if you're into girls) who wanted to take you to the park to feed the birds and look at the turtles and fish in the water on a date? I think that would be cool. I like parks.

 

696. Do you use public pools? Yes. Been a long time since I've been swimming though.

697. Do you use public bathrooms? yes. out of necessity.

698. Do you use public showers? only after using the public pool. swimsuit still on.

699. How old will you be in 17 years? 43. Wow.

 
700. Would it affect you at all if you knew that a very large meteor was headed towards earth that would impact in 17 years? I would hope that I'm already making the most of my life. Is this a kill everyone meteor, or a create a post-apocalyptic world, or merely cause much devastation? If it's not guaranteed death, I'd start doing better on my food storage.

House Owners; plus Earth Day and other thoughts

Yesterday we bought our first home! (Well, technically financing should finalize today.) We’ll get the keys on Monday (giving current residents the weekend to move out). Thank you to my Mom, for watching B yesterday. It was nice not having my attention split. We took her out to lunch at Chili’s after.

 

This month will be busy with packing, transitions, and giving the new house some TLC. Moving date is set for Saturday, May 23. So much to do before then. You should see our needs and wants lists for house stuff to buy. I swear it grows every time I look away.

 

Writing, submissions, and queries should pick back up in June.

 

Yesterday was Earth Day, and this is still Earth Week. Some of these 5k Qs are appropriate for the occasion (namely 644 and 655).

 

5,000 Questions... My answers so far...

 

641. Do you remember Crystal Pepsi? no

642. When was the last time you spent a night away from home? In the hospital after giving birth to my son. Wow, that was over five years ago. I need a vacation...

643. Some people say that there is no such thing as a stupid question. Is that true? Yes. There are no stupid questions, just stupid people.

644. What is the most interesting TV channel? Discovery Channel. Have you seen Planet Earth? It is spectacular. Our planet is such a beautiful, amazing place. Well worth saving.

645. Name one song you could live without hearing ever again: "Hot Chocolate" from the Polar Express soundtrack

646. Do your pets understand you when you talk? Don't currently have a pet, but I believe pets understand to a degree. Even if they don't understand the words, they do understand the emotion.

647. What are three things you HAVE NOT done that might surprise people? 1. Owned a credit card. 2. Driven a car. 3. Walked on a beach (despite being in San Francisco and seeing the ocean. school trip, so no one was allowed on the beach).

648. Have you ever had a secret admirer? yes. I got a secret valentine my senior year in HS, and never found out who it came from.

649. Have you been to a museum this year? No

 

650. Do you ever watch porn? No. Sounds like one upstairs sometimes though...

651. Do you think that it would be a good idea if people served in the army, navy or air force for a while before they were allowed to vote? no.

652. If you were required to do this to vote, would you? no. the armed forces wouldn't make me more aware, it would break me. I'd probably be less likely to vote, not more.

653. Do people often give you weird looks? not that I've noticed

654. Do like Japanese cooking? I like the dishes at Teriyaki Stix. That's Japanese. What doesn't appeal to me is sashimi, or any seafood for that matter.

655. Do you care for stray animals? I want to. But feed them and they are yours. And I can't save them all. I really admire organizations that save strays, such as local shelters (where we will be getting a kitty when we move), and the Egyptian Mau Rescue Organization.

Quiz Fun, plus Chocolate!

The Chocolate Oracle Says You're Mellow

You are sweet, mellow, and easily satisfied. You don't like anything too intense and dramatic. Deep down, you're a kid at heart... and you're nostalgic for the past. You are a whimsical person prone to daydreaming. Artistic and creative, you're always in the middle of a project. While you are an inspiration to others, you can come off as flaky. You love to be in love. You crave romance, whether you're single or not. You feel lost when you don't feel passion... you need someone to adore.

The Chocolate Oracle

I have to say this one is very accurate. Nostalgic, whimsical, needs romance. So me! I want chocolate…

 

5,000 Questions... My answers so far...

621. Do you mind being described as cute? not at all. go right ahead. ;-)

622. What is the tackiest object in your home? The ancient, falling apart dresser that was old when my sister got it; she used it for many years before it got handed down to me. It is one item that won't be coming with us when we move. We can't even use one of the drawers, it's braced so that it won't fall into the drawer below it. And the bottom keeps coming out of another. Chipped wood, nails that keep inching their way out. It's quite a sad thing to look at.

623. What do you think people are most ignorant towards? other cultures

624. What is it that makes you an interesting person? my openness, quirks, and contradictions. as a reader, feel free to comment on this :-)

625. What makes other people interesting to you? contrast - those unexpected things you learn about a person, the reasons behind why they do something

626. How open to suggestion are you? very

627. Is Michael Jackson black or white? who cares? how many people are entirely one race or color (especially in the USA)?

628. Are you often lonely? no

629. What’s the most unusual pet you’ve ever had? does an imaginary pet count? if so, I had a herd of unicorns in first grade. discounting that, our family had a corn snake once.

630. Have you ever threatened an authority figure? no

631. If you had to choose would you rather make all your decisions henceforth with your head only or with your heart only? my heart.

632. How imaginative are you? very. I'm a daydreamer, a writer, a lover of fantastic ideas

633. Do you like the Counting Crows? I haven't listened to much of their music, but I am doing so now and pleasantly surprised. so, my answer is yes.

 

634. If you took this survey from the diary (5000 Q Survey V2.0) did you note me so I could read it? No. I don't imagine 'you' would.

635. Are you more tense or laid back? more laid back

636. Does your happiness depend on anyone else, or are you happy no matter what any one says or does? Dependant on others. I don't want my happiness to be completely independent. Though there are times I wish I was affected less by other people's comments.

637. What do you think of the idea of putting the bible into the format of a fashion magazine to attract the interest of teenagers? The wording is the issue, not the format.

638. How often do you drink to get drunk? never

639. Would you consider yourself to be diplomatic? I'm one that likes to try, but I don't know how successful I am.

640. Do you think that most of the classes you have taken were taught in such a way as to make plain the relevance of the subject matter in your everyday life? most yes, but I tend to avoid taking classes that do not seem relevant to me

Personality (quiz result, plus 5k Q)

You Are a Pond

You are modest, pleasant, and reliable. You are content and confident. You are harmonious and caring. You truly like other people for who they are. You are a very genuine, humble person. Because of this, you're very approachable. You are soft-spoken and a bit sensitive. Your mild personality is a refreshing change for people.

What Body of Water Are You?

 

I've always enjoyed personality quizzes, such as above. I'm going to start putting one at the beginning of each 5k Q post, as they are all about getting to know me.

 

5,000 Questions... My answers so far...

 

601. Do you have a lust for life? using as a definition: a strong determination to enjoy life as much as possible. No. I worry too much.

602. Do you want to get more out of life? absolutely

603. Would you want to learn to:
Convert to Buddhism? no

Cure a hangover? no
Lie persuasively? no. I'd be way too tempted to lie more often.

604. What character from a movie is most like you? Alright, I'll resort to another personality quiz. I am...

Dorothy Gale

You are always daydreaming of far-off places. A bit naive sometimes, you have a vivid imagination and your heart is pure. And you know that there is no place like home.

 

605. Are you comfortable with the idea of your own death? no. It would devastate my family, and I'm certainly not ready to die. But what scares me more than actually dying is the pain that would most likely precede it.

606. How do you feel about arranged marriages? They can work, but the key there is work. I think a person has a better chance finding a compatible match on their own, than being arranged by parents or some other party. Chemistry is something that cannot be predicted. The "perfect match" on paper does not always work out.

607. What do you hate that everyone else seems to like? shoes

608. What do you like that others seem to hate? dandelions

609. If you had to be named after a month, which month would you pick? June. Not as common as April, but not as strange as November.

610. Is time more like a highway or a meadow to you? Mostly a meadow. Living in the now, able to observe both ahead and behind. Occasionally, the highway will barge through and drag you along, giving you no choice but to keep eyes on the road ahead and keep moving so you don't become road kill. But the meadow moments are definitely preferred.

611. What is your favorite movie? Robin Hood Prince of Thieves

612. Which would you choose to be back in the day: a warrior, an alchemist, a minstrel, a bard, an oracle, a peasant, or a merchant? a bard

613. What is your favorite song lyric? "for the good of all of us/ except for those who are dead". from Still Alive, the Portal credits song. So awesome. And I can sing it on Rock Band. Even more awesome.

614. What will you never run out of? dreams

615. If you could force someone to fall madly in love with you, (anyone you choose) would you do it? No. For a couple reasons. One, if it's forced then they don't truly love me for me. Two, the 'madly' part could have unwanted consequences. They may end up completely possessive (see the movie Prom Night), or protect me in ways I don't need or want (as in Terry Goodkind's The Sword of Truth series (haven't read the books myself, but heard about them, and watched some of the tv series based on it, The Legend of the Seeker)).

616. Have you ever seen the Disney movie The Black Cauldron? yes

617. Have you ever read The Black Cauldron by Alexander Lloyd (or any of his other books in the Prydain Chronicles)? yes. Loved the books. Movie seemed strange; been too long since I read the books to say how accurate it was.

618. Have you ever written a paper the night before it was due? yes.
How about the day it was due? yes. as well as after the due date...

619. Is there a movie you have watched so many times that you can quote it line for line? No. I may be able to quote some lines, but my memory doesn't hold the bulk of a movie like that.

620. What is your favorite season? Spring. I love the blossoms, the rain, the warming days, with nights still cool enough to snuggle down under the blanket. The promises of new life, new beginnings. The world is so fresh.

600 down, another 88% to go...

5,000 Questions... My answers so far...

 

Started over a year ago (Jan 21, 08). If I keep up the same rate, I won't finish this survey for another 8 years. o.O

 

581. Is there more to you than anyone knows? Absolutely. I'm hoping there's more to me than even I know.

582. Can you make tonight the night that you do the things you always wanted to do? No. That would require funding I don't have.

583. Would you rather watch life on TV or LIVE it? Some aspects I would certainly rather live, but there are others I am happy simply watching on TV.

584. What keeps you chained down? Lack of money. I would love to travel. *sigh*

585. What is the nagging feeling in the back of your head? my insecurities

 

586. Do you celebrate yourself? yes, but not as often as I should

587. Does everyone get the same opportunities in life? sadly, no. some opportunities we have to wait and hope for, while others we have to create.

588. What would you consider to be better than sex? cuddling

589. What evil is necessary? phones

590. What's your favorite one hit wonder? Survivor, "Eye of the Tiger"

591. What would you do anything for? the safety of my family

592. Do you celebrate the full moon? no. But the characters in EotF do. Their calendar, magic, and culture all revolve around the moon.

593. Have you ever gone in the water at the beach at night? No.

594. Are you ordinary? yes. I'm no Superman (or woman).

595. What makes people want to hang out with you? I'm loyal, listen, don't judge.

596. Have you ever felt like you've been a little bit too good to someone? no. even if they were "undeserving", I wouldn't be who I am if I didn't follow my instinct.

597. What book did you like that you had to read for school? Two immediately come to mind. "Julie of the Wolves" by Jean Craighead George, and "The Giver" by Lois Lowry. Both were assigned books that I ended up finishing well ahead of our assigned daily chapters.

598. What book should everyone have to read in school? "The Giver". It's a reminder to be grateful for memories, diversity, and the beauty of color.

599. Do you like the store Old Navy? It's okay. I don't seek out brand name clothes. Though I did buy a hat and overalls there when I was on an emotional spending splurge (those are dangerous, by the way. learned to only carry cash when in one).

600. What movie sequels do you like? National Treasure 2, both Shrek sequels, all the Indiana Jones movies, The Dark Knight, Ice Age Meltdown... and I'm sure there are more I like, but we'll stop there.

Procrastinating...

5,000 Questions... My answers so far...

556. What do you need advice about? writing a synopsis. I'm pulling my hair out on this one. (And obviously procrastinating.)

557. Have you been half-asleep and have you heard voices? yes. it's very odd being awake enough to hear people talking, yet asleep enough that you can't move even a finger. I wonder if that is what being in a coma is like?

558. Do you have a good luck charm? My graduation necklace, a silver '01'. I used to wear a necklace more often. I had forgotten how many I own. They give me a focus for my fiddling. Which reminds me of the downside. My son also likes to fiddle with them... which is why I stopped wearing them regularly.

559. Should animals have the same right to life as people? ooh, this is a toughie. I'd have to say no. there are animals designated (by God and man) for use as food. And at times it is needed to put an animal down because it is a danger to humans. Do they deserve to be tortured, or killed needlessly? Absolutely not. But Man comes first.

560. What is your least favorite body part? My legs. I hate having to shave them. Yet when I don't, they itch and feel ugly. When I do, I tend to nick myself; and next thing you know, they are prickly again. Ick. There is no winning.

561. Do you enjoy British comedy? I haven't seen enough to give a general yes or no. Most of what I've seen I haven't cared for, but I've recently been introduced to Dr. Who. I've only seen one episode so far, so am currently undecided. But it wasn't an immediate 'no'.

562. Are there ever happy endings or does nothing end? there are happy endings, but they do not end a person's life, merely a part of their story. like a book. the characters lives go on after the end, but they can have a "happy ending" for this event or storyline.

563. What is your worst trait? My initial instinctive answer is procrastination. but I think the root trait is deeper than that. Worrying. Worrying what people will think, if I'll get it right, if any of it matters, if anyone is reading, if I'm good enough. Worry, worry, worry. Sometimes my brain won't shut it off.

564. Is the world more beautiful because of love? yes. we see so much more when we love and feel loved. our senses are opened to new things. it's easier to be optimistic, and thus everything is beautiful.

565. What is the essence of you? dandelion seeds. I could explain, but I'll let you interpret that. ;-)

566. What really inspires you? music, stories - both the true and the fanciful, soaking in sunlight while lying on the grass listening to the sounds of the world

567. Have you met your soul mate? yes. but I also believe there are multiple soul mates, perfect matches, out there for each person. It's a matter of proximity and timing.

568. Is everyday a special occasion? every day should be, but no. Sunday, when B was sick and threw up in his ramen... not so special an occasion. Unless you look at it in the way that it's special because it doesn't happen frequently. Hmm. Back to point of view.

569. What sound would you rather hear than any sound in the world? rain. it's a soothing backdrop. I could live without hearing my loved ones, as long as I feel them. Relates to my love languages being quality time and physical touch, not words of affirmation.

570. Of the following which word best describes you:
natural: this is me! my hair dries naturally, I only wear make-up on special occasions, and I'm myself - what you see is what you get.
outgoing: definitely not
polite: I try, but sometimes I do or say things without thinking
quick thinking: sadly, no

571. Do any commercials make you want to break your TV? yes!! The Ikea commercial for their sales. Crazy lady, thinking she's getting a steal of a deal, running out to the husband and parked car... "Start the car! Start the car!" Kill the crazy high-pitched lady!

572. Have you ever lost your religion? no. even when I wasn't following it, I never discarded it. make sense?

573. Do you want to share your life with someone? yes! I AM sharing my life with someone (well, two someone's). One of my fears is being alone.

574. Where ARE the wild things? hiding, but their space is slowly being invaded, leaving little undiscovered.

575. Would you rather have a child genetically related to you or an adopted child? either. both deserve unconditional love and welcoming arms. If I hadn't been able to have children, I would definitely have adopted. Though getting a child genetically is cheaper, and the process is a bit more enjoyable. However, I don't want to go through the being pregnant again (see previous question) and would definitely adopt if we decide we want another child (yes, this is something my husband and I have discussed). For now, very happy with just one.

576. If I had a birthday party would you come? "I" being the person who created this list of questions? No, I do not know you. I rarely go to birthday parties of people I do know.

577. What seemingly impossible thing is POSSIBLE? the flight of a bumblebee.

578. What song do you love to sing out loud? The Ballad of Eleuteria. It's one I wrote myself. I'll often sing it in the shower, or while waiting for the bus to drop off my son.

579. Have you ever run through the woods naked and played in a stream (you should)? Nope

580. Have you ever taken long solitary night walks? yes. see number 413 for a specific memory.

Magic and Mentality

5,000 Questions... My answers so far...

 

546. What would you like to protest against? Black Friday

547. What or who do you support? Obama. He looks to be a very promising President.

548. If you found out you were pregnant today, would you have an abortion? No. I really, really, really don't want to be pregnant again, but I would never snuff it out if it was obviously meant to be. Though there would likely be much stress and panicking. (Praying this scenario doesn't actually get played out.)

549. Do you like picking out greeting cards or would you rather write your own? Greeting cards! Just cause I write, doesn't mean I can think of something warm or witty to say every time, and why should I when someone else has already done the work.

550. Do you like to be thought of as mysterious? No. I'm not against the idea, but I certainly don't promote it or get a thrill off it. I don't know that anyone has ever described me as mysterious...

551. What is the most magical thing that has ever happened to you? A mere few days after blogging about a lack of books to read, a package with an ARC magically appeared on my doorstep. So much better than being notified of winning a drawing through email. Just BAM, there when you most need it.

552. How would you tell your friend his or her fly was open in public? I'd whisper "your fly is open." Though I am not the most observant person, and would more likely be on the receiving end.

553. Does a good friend tell you you've got something in your teeth or pretend not to notice it? A good friend would tell me, to prevent further embarrassment.

 
554. The world has many secrets. Have you learned any? Will you share it? Life is all about belief. Each person has a different reality, tied to their perception of the world. The important thing is recognizing the existence of these realities, and not discounting someone because theirs is very different from your own.

555. Are there any bands you like so much that you want to get their music video collection on DVD? no. even when using YouTube for music purposes, I usually have it in the background, listening but not watching. I'd much rather have the CD.

A Few Notes

Still sick, but on the upswing.

 

Title "Magic is Believing" changed to "Fly with Me."

 

Due to last week's funeral, and then being sick, I am behind on pretty much all of my obligations and goals... and now have paperwork to do for pre-kindergarten evaluations for B.

 

Bought My Fitness Coach (it's Yourself! Fitness (best exercise program I've tried), new and improved for Wii), but haven't started it up due to achey blahness of being sick.

 

5,000 Questions... My answers so far...

540. What do your parents do that you will try never to do? I'm not sure, so peacefully backing out of this one.

541. What gets you through the night? Knowing I am loved and not alone.

542. Do you really want to live forever? I don't know. If I was in prime condition, and wasn't alone, sure. But if everyone I knew was dying, then no.

543. Do you often experience powerful emotions? Absolutely. My emotions are generally way up or way down, very rarely mild.

544. What could make you so happy right now that you would cry and laugh and sing? To get an email from Firebrand Literary Agency requesting the full of manuscript for EotF, or an acceptance from a magazine for Blazing Princess, or to find out I somehow inherited a lot of money and can go out and buy a house.

 
545. Who is your favorite visual artist? My favorite for the longest time was Vincent Van Gogh (still ranks high on my list). Now, I'd have to say Selina Fenech.

Ideas, Stories, Influences

5,000 Questions... My answers so far...

 

528. If you were going to write a bedtime story for someone you loved what would it be about? Currently, it would have to include a pig named Snort, and a hippo named JoJo. They would probably take a train ride to some fantastic world, making friends in unexpected places. Until the moon tucks them in at night.

 

529. Does anyone understand you? My husband, more than anyone.

530. Do you understand yourself? Usually.

531. Earth, Air, Fire, and Water: Which is your element? I may be a Water Dog, but my true element is definitely Air. Air magic plays a big part in all three of my novels. If I could choose a superpower, it would be flight.

532. Who influences you to be the way you are? I'm too lazy to be consciously influenced by much outside my little family. Though I'm sure everything I experience and everyone I meet influences me in some way.

533. What is one idea that you live by? Believe. Believe in a higher power, believe in your dreams, believe in yourself, believe in good in the world.

"I don't care what you believe, just believe in it." —Shepherd Book, Serenity, 2005

 

534. How can people act to make you want to get to know them? Easygoing and kind.

535. Are you more delicate or tough? delicate

536. Would you rather be smarter or more beautiful? smart. beautiful people get noticed more often than I'd be comfortable with

537. Have you ever had a surprise party? yes. My fifth grade class threw me a going-away party before I moved. It was very touching.

 

538. When are you at a loss for words? Anytime I'm put on the spot. I hate being quizzed. My mind goes blank.

539. What is the worst time to be alone? Late at night. When you're awake, and the world is quiet. It's lonely and unsettling.

more q's

5,000 Questions... My answers so far...

 

511. Do you believe your government has a file on you somewhere? Of course. How else do I get a Social Security Card? And a State ID card? All those forms go somewhere.

512. What (not who) do you care about? the written word, high speed internet, my teddy bear, keeping warm, "My Own Worst Enemy"

513. What is the worst thing that could possibly happen to you? tortured by a serial killer. if I'm going to die, I want it to be quick.

514. Who or what is really the absolute root and source of all evil? greed and selfishness

515. What do you want to change about the world? people to want to change. and no allergies, as that's something that doesn't mess with free will.

516. Why did you decide to complete this survey? I needed motivation to blog more regularly, and I promised someone I'd blog more about non-writing topics.

517. Has anyone ever led you on? yes

518. What was the last thing you did against your will? went shopping when I felt sick

519. What are your plans for the rest of today? edit a chapter of EotF, use Wii Fit, come up with some form of nutrition for lunch, and do more stuff this afternoon, dinner, and watch Survivor

520. How can you make tomorrow better than today was? still too early in the day to find something to improve on

521. Would you rather date someone 4 feet tall or 9 feet tall? 4 feet. That's only 1'8" difference, rather than over 3'

522. How often do you get jealous? on occasion. not so much of relationships, but of experiences (such as travel)

523. What is the one thing you do that your friends wish you didn't? have unrealistic expectations

524. Do you do any soul searching? yes

525. Do you believe you have a soul? absolutely

526. Would you rather have a child that is more confident or more curious? confident. curiosity leads to accidents and hospital bills. of course, confident children are more likely to voice their curiosity.

527. Are you a slave to love? no. love is a choice

At long last, more of the 5k Qs

5,000 Questions... My answers so far...

 

501. If you could rename yourself what would your new name be? as a teenager - I wanted to be Daphne Starlight

 

502. What is your Glam Rock name (the name of your first pet plus your street name)? Sailor Plumtree

503. Have you ever created your own 'what ___ are you' quiz? nope
If you did make one what would it be about? Which Fey are you? (from EotF world: sylph, djinn, dryad, or undine)

504. What is your favorite song from the 70's? Love Story. My husband gave me a dove music box that plays the song.

505. What do you feel like complaining about? the good shows getting cut (current culprit, NBC with "My Own Worst Enemy". I'll be watching up to the last episode they show. Still edge-of-the-seat awesome.)

506. What do you feel like celebrating? life, family. How could I not with my birthday and Thanksgiving coming up.

507. Have you lost touch with anyone you should call? my college sister. but I've tried getting in touch with her to no avail :(

508. Deep in thought do you forgive everyone? forgive them, yes. excuse them, no.

509. Can a person speak out against their government and still support their country? yes. that's what democracy and freedom of speech is all about.

510. What do you have faith in? God, the good in people, my family

Fact or Crap

5,000 Questions... My answers so far...

 

 

Let's play fact or crap.
Is it a fact? Or is it crap?

 

Don't take my word for these. Just answering my initial theory, not looking up actual answers. If you're curious, look them up yourself.

481. The greenhouse effect is bad for your health. crap

482. There are about as many molecules of air in one breath as there are hairs on your head. crap

483. The Miss America pageant started out as a contest in which people decorated wheel chairs and one chair was judged the prettiest. crap

484. To remove a tattoo a physician can place a small balloon under the skin, which is inflated so that the tattooed skin gradually stretches. Then they cut the stretched skin away. crap

485. Cock fighting is a sexual sport. crap

486. It is the warmest time of the day during the hour that the sun is the highest in the sky. crap

487. Certain scientists specialize in studying cow farts. fact

488. The brilliant colors (reds, oranges, yellows) across the sky that we get from sunsets are caused mainly by pollution. crap

489. In Grimm's original fairy tale, Rapunzel is pregnant. crap

490. Dracula was the first movie about a vampire. crap

491. The inventors of Corn Flakes, the Kellogg brothers, ran a school for delinquent youth. crap (it was a sanitarium, actually)

492. "Kemo Sabe" means "soggy shrub" in Navajo. crap

493. Sir Thomas Crapper invented the toilet. crap

494. The Earl of Sandwich invented the Sandwich. fact

495. Some Chinese alchemists were trying to invent an immortality medicine and accidentally invented gunpowder instead. fact

496. The human body is made of about 99% water. crap

497. Bubble gum contains rubber. fact

498 This survey to the zero power = 0. crap

499. Most lipstick contains fish scales. crap

500. There are 86401 seconds in day. crap

10 Questions, in which I muse about TV and remember the past

5,000 Questions... My answers so far...

 

461. Do you have street smarts? no

462. Do you have a lot of common sense? also no

463. What is your favorite flavor of ice cream? Praline Pecan

464. What's your favorite movie that involves dancing? I love dancing movies! Picking two for this one. "Strictly Ballroom", which I haven't seen in years; and "Take the Lead", which is so inspiring.

465. Would you ever want to become a guest on a talk show? If yes what would the show's theme be? No desire to.

466. Do you like the way you look naked? An unexpected question... Answer: Mostly.

467. Have you ever dissected an animal? Yes. Biology in junior high. Surprisingly, the worm was worse than the frog.

468. Who do you know who is brilliant? My older brothers. All brilliant. I've always looked up to them.

469. Who do you know who is dull? Not going to answer this one. Protecting the innocent and all that.

470. Do you ever think about time travel? Yes. Gets very complicated. Did you see the premiere of Heroes season 3? Wow.

QA time again

5,000 Questions... My answers so far...

 

444. Are you better at talking or listening? listening

445. What will only happen to you once in this lifetime? birth.

446. Know of any conspiracy theories you think might be credible? not on top of conspiracy theories

 
447. What are the most beautiful words that have ever been spoken to you? I might have an answer to that if I could delve into my journals (packed away, sadly). I should pay more attention to these things.

448. If it were legal would you own a human slave (race unimportant)? no. I'd be uncomfortable with a genie slave. I was uncomfortable when in 5th grade our class was split up into slaves and owners. I was the latter. I don't recall having my "slave" do much.

449. Have you ever read your own writing at a poetry reading? yes. very nerve wracking, yet empowering.

450. What is one simple thing that gives you the happy shivers? eating chocolate or banana pudding

451. What do you do for exercise? three days a week I work out 30 minutes with Yourself! Fitness (personal trainer program for Xbox).

452. Would you rather have a strict teacher with a sense of humor or a lenient teacher that doesn't teach? strict with a sense of humor. those are the ones that make learning fun.

453. If you ever have a baby what might you want to name it? my pre-married list included the following names: Jonathon Tyler, Caleb Andrew, Matrim Dale, Emma Marie, Alexa Dawn, Sariah Ruth, and Ember Nicole. Names most considered when actually pregnant: Sebastian (was our initial favorite, but my in-laws hated it), Vincent, and Ashlee (would have been B's name if he was a girl).

454. If you won free tickets to a concert from a radio show and had to choose between Inxs, Poison, Blondie and Moby, which would you choose? One moment while I look those up on YouTube. ... Okay, turns out I've actually heard music from all of them. I'd definitely go with Blondie.

455. Are you a good cook? no. I am a lousy cook. We stick to time-proven recipes.

456. Do you prefer when things come with no assembly required, even if they are a bit more expensive? no. I like assembling things with my husband. It's something we've enjoyed together since putting together our first pieces of furniture during our early days as a married couple

457. Start a sentence with the words: what if. What if magic was merely believing?

458. Are you more spontaneous and unpredictable or loyal and routine? loyal and routine

459. What is the highest number you can count to in your head? I remember trying to find out back in the elementary school days. Don't remember how high I got, but I know the numbers weren't accurate higher up (making up words such as a gagillion). Nowadays, I'd probably be likely to get lost after 1 million. I don't care to waste time finding out.

460. How do you go about losing weight? haven't had a need to. getting rid of that tummy pooch is a different matter...

More QA

5,000 Questions... My answers so far...

 

429. Are there any animals you flat out refuse to touch? slug (touched one once accidentally. eww, eww, eww!)

430. Do you care about your weight? I don't monitor it regularly, but I would certainly care if I gained a noticeable amount

431. Did you/will you go to the prom? yes, I went to prom. though I asked him (he went to a different school). would I have been asked by anyone if I hadn't taken the initiative? probably not.

432. Have you ever wanted to date twins? no. though there were some cute ones that were friends of a younger sister.

433. What one thing would you change about high school if you could? more options for the half year electives. I took a fashion class for the sole reason that it was the "best of the worst" of my options.

434. If you came with a warning label, what would it say? keep away from sharp corners

435. Are you artistic and creative? as a writer, I'd like to believe so

436. What were you (probably) doing on this date last year? thanks to blog archives, I can actually look this up. I was blogging and working on writing the first draft of EotF during the 100 days challenge.

 

437. What are you obsessed with? books

438. What was the last compliment you received? My query sounds like a great story! Always good to hear what's working. :-)

439. Do you have any brothers or sisters? yes. 3 brothers and 5 sisters.

440. Who would you like to be alone with right now? my husband. :-)

441. Do you push people away when you really want them to come closer? sometimes. when I don't feel worthy of a relationship, I have a tendency to throw at them all my faults, testing them to see if they want "the real me". (not deliberate, mind you, just something I've observed from evaluating past relationships)

442. Is a prenuptial agreement necessary or does it take the romance and trust out of marriage? I can understand certain situations might lend themselves to a prenup (celebrity weddings as an example), but most marriages don't (or shouldn't) need one.

443. Do you lie your way out of things? occasionally. don't we all? most commonly with telemarketers.

More Thoughts and Memories

5,000 Questions... My answers so far...

 

413. What's the bravest or most daring thing you have ever done? I don't know about brave. for daring as in stupid: once walked seven miles from a movie theatre to my parents house, after midnight, stopping once to nap on some grass next to a business sign. though I wasn't stupid enough to accept a ride offered by some guys driving by.

414. "What's the point of robbery when nothing is worth taking?" (- Adam Ant) Power. To prove that you can break in, or the person isn't as safe as they thought. No, I haven't done it, but I've read plenty of books. :-)

415. If your man or woman served you breakfast in bed as a treat what would you want? I love French Toast, but I don't think I want to risk that in bed, so we'll go with fruit, cinnamon rolls, and milk.

416. What do you do only when you are upset? swear

417. What's the oddest CD in your collection? Mediaeval Baebes: The Rose

418. What's the best diary name you ever saw? diary's have names? Blogs have names. I suppose a blog can be an online diary I suppose. I always considered diaries to be more private lock and key than journals though. A favorite blog title I've seen: "The Butterfly Effect: The smallest event can change everything."

419. What would your friends be surprised to learn about you? I was once hospitalized for depression.

420. Who owes you an apology? nobody owes me anything

421. Who deserves an apology from you? all my blog readers, for my inconsistent entries. my writing group for not keeping updated.

422. How would you like to treat your kids differently from the way your parents treated you? more consistent bedtime. But B needs the bedtime routine. I know all children are different, and I was an exception in my family. When I was little my mom let me stay up and play as long as I didn't disturb the rest of the family, then go to bed on my own when I got tired. Of course there were more restrictions once I got into school, but I've always been the night owl. I think my parents did a great job raising me. They did their best. I hope to do the same with my son.

423. Which do you like best: 60's, 70's or 80's fashion? 80's, as that's what I grew up with. given a choice though, I'd go back further, to the 50's.

424. What is the worst pick up line ever used on you? online: "Can you teach me how to cyber?"

425. Of the following, which word best describes you: inventive, kinetic (energetic), light-hearted, mature. inventive

426. Do you own a record player? no. Do you use it? NA

427. How easily do you make friends? I am open to friendships, but not very good at initiating them.

428. What is the difference between having character and being a character? being comfortable with your self, versus projecting a personality that you want others to see

In lieu of a Tuesday Tally...

5,000 Questions... My answers so far...

 

401. Some say that high school is the best time of your life. Was that true for you? No. It had it's ups and downs, but the best times came after.

402. What do you find yourself encouraging others to try? tv series Firefly

403. Which is better: Mel Brooks or Woody Allen? Mel Brooks

404. When was the last time you were up all night? earlier this year. don't remember the date, and don't think there was a special occasion other than weekend. we watched two movies and played a game.

405. __ is life. The rest is just details. Fill in the blank. Relationships.

406. Are people too complex and different to be categorized? No. There are many ways to categorize people - psychology, profession, race, gender, location, hobbies. The important thing is to not judge based on those categories. Even two people with the exact same psychological profile will not always act the same under the same circumstance. We are unique. Cataloguing simply makes life easier.

407. Is it good to have pride in your own race or does that separate people from each other because it makes them think of everyone else as 'outsiders'? There are few of pure race anymore, so I think it's pointless. Have pride in your culture and country, but respect others for theirs. Just because their culture is different does not make your better (or worse). Grats to all the Olympic accomplishments! There were amazing moments from many countries. A memorable Olympic year.

 
408. What fictional story would you like to live through? I don't wish for my life to be as filled with conflict as many of the characters I read about or watch. If I think of one at a later point I'll let you know.

409. Are cats or dogs smarter? cats

 
410. Have you ever guessed someone's password and broken into their diary? people have passwords on diaries? I thought they had keys. I must be behind the times...

411. What teacher, if any, has effected you the most in your life? Mrs. Monk, first grade, for giving me and Alexis separate activities during reading hour. We were ahead of the class, and didn't need to go through the basics. No "Go Jane go." Instead, we were assigned to write our own stories or learn new words from the dictionary. I still have that very first story I wrote, and the desire to write never left. Another teacher I'd like to thank is Mrs. Flanigan, my 5th grade teacher. She recommended I read "The Blue Sword," effectively hooking me on Fantasy.

412. Are you more easily bored or excited? easily both... quite a rollercoaster ride. ;-)

Judging, Genetics, and such

5,000 Questions... My answers so far...

 

381. Do you sometimes do risky things? Yes.

 
382. Could just about anyone hold your interest in a conversation for at least ten minutes? Could I listen to someone that long? sure. Would I actually be interested? not necessarily.

383. Are you self-conscious? About my looks, not much. About my performance, absolutely. This is why I cannot accompany on the piano.

384. What would be your ideal destination for a Saturday afternoon? On a nice day, the zoo. On a hot or cold day, a nice afternoon at home.

385. Does anyone have a video tape of you doing something embarrassing? Not that I know of. If anyone else does... give me a call and we'll work something out. ;-)

386. What is Kevin Smith’s best movie? Do minor acting roles such as the diner clerk in TMNT count? Or the forensic assistant in Daredevil? Cause I am not a fan of his directed movies or main roles. I have seen Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back and did not enjoy it at all (unlike my husband, who was still talking about the movie when we went to bed). I admit to not having seen his other movies, but if the humor is the same then I shall gladly pass.

387. Where do you like to go on Friday or Saturday nights? going out to see a movie is always nice.

388. Do you like your friends to act the same way all the time or do you accept their moods and changes? I am very accepting. :-)

389. Do you often feel like other people are judging you? Sometimes. But I think most of it stems from me judging myself.

390. What do you think other people judge you to be like? I don't know. (Yes, a cop out.) Do you judge others? What are your impressions of me?

391. Are you quick to judge others? We all judge without thinking, imprint on own experience on others, create first impressions. I may be quick to judge at times, but I take my time in creating a "final verdict". I am always open to be swayed from my judgment.

392. When you have a fight with someone do you want to talk about it right away or calm down first and then talk? Calm down first. No one wants to hear the initial argument that boils in my head.

393. Some say love is a river (according to the old song). What do you say love is? Love is a complex equation. It may take proofing to understand, but somehow all the unrelated pieces work together to create wonderful results.

394. What is the worst fault a person can have? complete selfishness, a disregard for fellow man.

395. Do you have it? no. if I did, maybe I would understand all the crime, war, abuse.

396. Which do you think has more impact on a person’s character, genetics or environment? aah, the age old question of nature vs nurture. Genetics is the clay, the base of a person. Environment helps to hone and shape what is already there.

397. Who was your first best friend? Alexis, back in kindergarten.

 

398. If you are not best friends anymore, what came between you? She moved after first grade, but we wrote letters for many years, seeing each other occasionally. It wasn't until I moved to a different part of the state in 5th grade that we finally lost touch completely. We hadn't been real close anymore, and I lost her address.

399. Who have you read a biography about? Mary Queen of Scots.

400. What would your own autobiography be called? I hate this question! I suppose I could go with my first blog's title: "Discovering Me". Or the planned title of my poetry book, "My Letter to the World". Maybe I would use one of my other poem titles: "More than what you see" or "See This Woman." Not that my life is interesting enough for an autobiography.